Mini ‘youz’ and mini ‘mez’

Our children are more like us than we want to admit. Although they get in trouble for undesirable behavior, if you look at them closely you’ll see your own behavior reflected in them. The only difference is that as adults we’re able to conceal it.

For instance, my middle daughter always huffs and puffs when it’s time to get ready for and go to bed. She says she wants to stay up and doesn’t like going to bed. Then in the morning she’s the hardest to wake up. I have to literally sit her up and pull her to her feet, OR tap her little bottom. Hmmm… funny, ‘cause I stall going to bed as well. I have an inward pout when I need to go to bed, but want to watch a show that’s coming on too late. I may even slam something down, harder than I should, when I don’t get to finish something that I wanted to do before bedtime.

When I have to get up in the morning, I hit the snooze button about five or more times (on my alarm clock and my cell phone)  and complain within my head that I hate getting up. It’s two months into the school year and I’m already past tired of getting up in the morning. I through the covers back in annoyance and begin my day. Of course, by this time, I’m running a little late. Funny, ‘cause if I leave the children to their own devices they would move so slowly that they’d miss their entire lives.

All of my children, including the oldest who’s now 20, throws their clothes on the ground when they don’t feel like putting them where they belong. My son doesn’t do it as often as the girls and puts his clothes in the hamper mostly without being prompted. I, on the other hand, keep my room straight, clean and organized for weeks on end and then I get extremely tired, overwhelmed, under the weather or anything in between… What happens then? My clothes end up in a pile on the floor. Well, at least they’re all in one pile. *eyebrows raised, innocent face*

There are the toys they need to pick up, but they keep walking by them as if they don’t exist. In the kitchen, there are a bunch of dishes that need to be washed. I’m sure it’s them who walks by the dishes as well. There are two baskets of clean clothes to put away, two loads to wash and one to dry, but I keep putting if off until later. And in the children’s rooms there are bunches of stuff that need to be put in place.

Any of this sound familiar?

We look at our children and we see the similarities in our mannerisms, the color of their skin and hair, the way they walk or say a certain word. But that’s all good, right? LOL

I don’t know that I plan on changing any of these little… uh… episodes, but maybe I can remember that when my children are being reprimanded for one of those similar, unsavory behaviors. Maybe it’ll give the kids a little stay of execution and a little more piece around these parts.

What of your personality or traits do you see in your children?

Did you know you can buy cars from the rental company? {$100 discount code}

A few months ago my daughter was in an accident while she was driving my minivan. Luckily she and her passenger were fine and it wasn’t her fault, but that wasn’t the case with the van. And that wasn’t the case about the process of getting the van repaired, getting us into a rental car and completing all of the paperwork necessary to resolve this matter.

It just so happens that the perpetrator’s (tic) insurance company delayed getting in touch with us. The accident happened at the beginning of the week and by the end no one had gotten back to us regarding the rental so we chose to rent from Hertz. That’s why when their content analyst of Hertz Car Sales contacted me about writing a post and offering a promotion code to all of you, I jumped right on it because compared to the other rental company we were forced to use; Hertz’s service and ease of use was 100 percent better. (Really, this is just a coincidence!) It was during the rental process that I learned they have used cars available for purchase.  That may not be news for most people, but it was  news to me.

I even recommended my daughter look into it because she’s interested in buying her first car. It’s easy to find used cars for sale from Hertz because you can go right to their website (Hertzrent2buy.com) to take a peek at the used cars and the prices. There are a myriad of quality choices for great prices. Nowadays a lot of people are purchasing used cars because they don’t want to have a monthly car payment.

To get $100 off your used car purchase, just visit the site and use the promo code R2B-CSU for your discount. One of the great things I find about buying a used car from Hertz Car Sales is the fabulous condition the vehicles are in. Everyone wants a well-cared for car when their buying one that’s used.

Have you bought a car from Hertz Car Sales? If so, what was your experience? If not, would you consider making a purchase?

Disclosure: This post is strictly informational. No compensation was received for writing this post and any opinion expressed is my own. For more information review my complete policy.

Blogging memories beat stats, views

When I first started this blog in 2007 it was out of a desire to write about a variety of topics. I have another blog, which floats in the blogosphere free from updates, and it had too narrow of a subject to hold my interest. When I worked as a magazine editor and in my freelance writing business I was used to writing profiles, articles, book and car reviews, travel articles and everything in between. I supervised photo shoots, managed an editorial budget, organized editorial meetings and coordinated freelance writers and photographers. It was definitely interesting and I needed something that was just as interesting and fun.

Hence, It’s a woman’s world! This gave me a spot to talk about my kids, my health, poetry and creativity – it allowed me to share a part of me. It’s an outlet for other writing I love and makes me a little money. It’s so cool to get comments, feedback and suggestions from readers who led me to their blogs. From there I came to know and love quite a few, and I was surprised there is such a loving community in the virtual world. People who I care for and how care for me. Like my “twin” Heather at Home to Heather, Melissa from Frugal Creativity and Shaunalynn from the Art and Science of Parenting.

That community has provided me with a loud of memories that I keep in my “blog memories basket,” which I was given about three years ago from Jo at Life’s Perfect Pictures. I’ve filled the basket with notes and cards I’ve received from my blogging friends; some of whom I’ve won prizes from (jewelry from TwillyPop, ear cuffs from Lumi’s Earlums line and several other things). Lin from A Duck and Wheel with String has not only contributed to my memory basket, but she has also sent some things for my children proving to be just as sweet as she seems to be from reading her blog. There’s Tammy from Mom Knows Everything who has the most memorable children – experiencing the multigenerational parenting as well – and she’s always “available” for advice and contacts. Even thinking of me, all the way in Canada, when I least expect it. There are many others who have shown their love, support and friendship: Sandra, Sandra H., Tina (Mummy Diaries)… (Forgive me if there’s someone I’ve missed!)

I love browsing through all of the blogging memories.

On the other side of this is the income. You see, when I started this I was married and pregnant. A few months later I was separated and still pregnant with only my husband’s income, which – as the separation went on – was going to cease. I had to make money. At the same time the economy killed 80 percent of my freelance income WHILE I was at the end of my pregnancy when I was  on “maternity leave.” So, naturally, I would seek to have the best of both worlds – the income and the blog. Thus, paid posts.

Am I happier with more readers, followers and money or the closeness, relationships and memories that have been a result of this blog? It’s hard to choose because I smile when I make money and I smile when I look at my blog memory basket. I’m hoping both will continue to exist at an equally successful rate because I love and need both.But, most recently, I have cut back on paid posts and site contributing to allow time to  rest and relax; more time to read, think and exist on a stress-free level. That part is going well.

Now I struggle between my desire to write and the creativity-lacking space I’m in right now, which I believe  results from my health issues. Dealing with that is exhausting: the doctors’ appointments, tons of medications, the way my body feels and how everything affects my rest and sleep. I just try to go with the flow by reading books, decorating, coloring with my kids, and even sewing. Mild and relaxing creativity.

In the end, stats really don’t matter, do they? If I have to stop blogging I know there are still friends out there and writing fun. Right?

Finding a hot pair of boots

Quite some time ago I told you how much I love shoes. I think I come just a hair short of being addicted (guess I can add that to my list of addictions: chocolate, all things red, beauty and skincare products, and – now – shoes). As the seasons change it’s the perfect time to purchase more footwear – whether it’s shoes or boots.

I’m still in search of the perfect everyday shoe that is not too flat and not too high, but that can work for a lot of different occasions or activities. You know, grocery shopping and meetings with my children's teachers, running errands and visiting friends… you get the point. There is also another footwear need that I have: a hot pair of boots!

There are some great new autumn fashion boots for women in a variety of styles including above the knee, ankle boots or the standard height to the calf. I’m looking for a pair of wedge-heeled, above-the-knee boots preferably in red (of course!) and I recently caught a glimpse of some very cute ankle boots. Admittedly, I wasn’t crazy about the style when it first came out, but this season’s choices are to die for. Seriously.

They are perfect with jeans, slacks and some styles also look cute with dresses and skirts. You can slip into your favorite tunic with some leggings and slide into your ankle boots for a contemporary and comfortable style.

You can find the ideal pair of ankle boots for yourself at ellos where they have a buy now pay later no credit check policy. That’s a great deal when you’re in a bind, but need to get something right away.

Tell me, what style of boot is your favorite? Do you own more than one pair? Right now, my shoe collection is bootless, but I plan to change that in the very near future. Let me know if you see my red above-the-knee boots!

Flowers, chocolate & gifts – oh my!

I’m not ashamed to admit it – I am 43 today.

Happy Birthday to me.

Normally this time a year I get a little down. I won’t go into the reason why; just stating a fact to set the stage. This year I decided to be good to me. I bought myself some extra pretty  flowers, some wonderful dark chocolate that I will enjoy at my leisure and…. wait for it… a KINDLE.

 

I was resisting the e-reader craze, but with my many doctors’ appointments and varying other opportunities that present themselves to just wait I gave it a try. And, I must say, I.am.in.love. It actually helps me to read faster. I’m not sure why, but I’m enjoying it a great deal. So much so that I’ve already finished one book and I am well into another one.

I have a white one like the one below (click picture to buy your own or get one for the lover of reading in your life) and I got a red cover for it. I would have gotten the Kindle in red if they had it. LOL… Yup, addicted to red.

Amber came home over the weekend to cook meals for me for the entire week – isn’t that a fabulous birthday present! And I don’t plan on doing anything today. Not one darn thing. Well, you know what I mean. I’m not going to do anything extra. There’s still taking care of the children and stuff like that, but I’m going to do a lot of laying down, watching television and reading or sleeping or resting. Anyone wanna come over and clean up after me and my laziness, which will be accentuated by my little tornados?

Anyway, I’m happy to have reached another birthday, to be able to be (mostly - LOL) comfortable in my own skin and to be blessed to awaken each day and move around under my own – albeit painful – steam. It’s all good. Thank God for another year. ;-)

Meet me at 175 Cherry Lane

I’ve always been one to explore different styles of music. I think it started when I lived in upstate New York and there weren’t different genres available. What I missed most was reggae, hip hop and R&B on the radio. Of course, that type of music was available on cassette!

Now, that I’ve gotten older, I’m surprised at the various types of music that catch my attention and get my toe to tapping. If you like exploring and listening to different types of music then check out the song clips on 175 Cherry Lane from KO. They just may get your toe to tapping as well.

What to do when help is needed

I don’t know if you’ve noticed that I haven’t been posting a lot, visiting many blogs, tweeting or hanging out on Facebook as much as I normally do. The short reason is: I just haven’t been feeling well. The way I feel physically had directly affected by brain. It’s hard to be creative and my energy level is extremely low.

One of the things I’ve been bouncing around in my head is how do I take care of everything and everyone given that my health seems to be at a rough patch. Just FYI: I’m awaiting results that will let me know whether I have to go through chemotherapy and I’m having more symptoms that are definitely changing the way I feel – not in a good way. When it has to do with people helping me my resources are a little low. In fact, I’m more of the belief that when someone is sick, suffering or dealing with a chronic illness then they shouldn’t have to ask for outside help. For instance, if I had a friend suffering from chronic pain I would call and say, “I’m going to the grocery store, what do you need?” Now, most who are under the weather have no idea what they need or want because their brain is affected so I would offer a list of things that they might need. If they had everything then I’d make sure their dinner was already prepared and, if not, I’d just let them know I am bringing something for their dinner. This is really important for those who have family members to take care of.

In my experience, people say to me, “Let me know if you need anything…” Although it’s good to know that someone is available in an emergency or whatever it’s difficult to reach out to those who don’t keep in touch or check up on you. Is it just me or do you understand what I’m saying?

I know I can ask my oldest daughter to come home every two weeks or so and prepared meals to be frozen then all I have to do is heat them up and serve the children. I can also get one or two people to take me to doctor’s appointments if I let them know in enough time. But the dishes, laundry, cleaning, carpooling the kids, helping with homework and the myriad of other things seem to be (Well, they ARE)  floating in the air waiting for me to take care of.

I have tried saying something like, ‘I’m exhausted and haven’t been able to clean up and the bathrooms are disgusting.” I usually get a response like, ‘Oh, don’t worry about it you’ll get to it whenever” or something similar. I guess they don’t get that the knowledge of everything that needs to be done is tiring and overwhelming then when I finally get on my feet it’s still difficult getting everything done. The result is normally another setback in my health trying to catch up. I don’t think I’ll ever have the nerve to say, “My bathroom is gross, will you clean it?”

There may be a few options to consider: Move back to Maryland where I have tons of family and friends who hopefully would pitch in on a regular basis. The other option, I guess, would be to build a network. That just seems wrong to me to try and build a network now that I need help. Sigh. Well, I guess that’s only two options … ‘cause I can’t think of anything more.

What would you do?

Click for my last health update.

The eyes have it

Yesterday I had to stop to the grocery store to get a couple of prescriptions for the girls, some children’s vitamins and a few household items. I, of course, checked my coupons and saw that I had some for cosmetics for two different brands. I took them into the store with me to compare prices and decide which ones I should get. I decided on some mascara (mine needed to be replaced) and some pretty eye shadow.

Makeup can be expensive so finding cosmetics at affordable prices along with using a coupon is definitely a treat. And my birthday is next week so I plan on looking extra pretty that day. :-)

Do you wear eye shadow? Then like "LIKE" Cosmetic Cosmos and receive a free cream eye shadow set (a $19.50 value) with any order of $30 or over.

Pencil case turned make-up bag

I am not, by nature, a wasteful person. I feel guilty for throwing food away that my kids leave on their plates and for not recycling my magazines now that we’ve moved further from the recycling center. I’ve stopped using Styrofoam plates – at least for now – and opted for my regular dinnerware. Unfortunately, my life doesn’t permit hand washing every dish or pot so I use the dishwasher. At least I’m not filling the landfills with non-biodegradable Styrofoam products.

Instead of throwing away old clothes, I give them away as long as they’re in good condition. We reuse clothing as much as possible: my oldest daughter and myself pass clothes back and forth as our tastes and needs change and all of my middle daughter’s clothes go to her younger sister. It’s my way of ensuring I definitely get my money’s worth (and save money) when it comes to material goods as well as be a good steward over what we have.

Another way I’ve found to save money and make good use of what I have is purchasing something cheaper to serve another purpose as opposed to what it is designed for. Not too long ago the makeup bag in my purse had an accident; it broke its zipper. It would have taken too much time to repair so I kept my eyes open for another one to replace it. I found one in the most unexpected place.

While shopping for school supplies for my children, I discovered the cutest and most stylish pencil case that I’ve ever seen. It was in the sale bin at an office supply store and cost a little more than $3, which is a steal. The pencil case turned makeup bag holds everything I like to carry – lip gloss, lip balm, comb, mirror, nail file, lotion, dental floss, etc. That makes it a total SCORE!

It’s easy to find something less expensive than what you actually need or to up cycle. For instance, if you’re decorating or organizing around your home then you should evaluate the items you have that aren’t being used. Like an empty basket could be used to corral toys or keep extra rolls of toilet paper in the bathroom.

I always have a physical and mental list of items that I need or want. You can make a list of projects or items you need around the house. It’s a fun and frugal way to keep up with the things you need/want.

What are your favorite up cycling habits?

Feelings of 9/11

I can not imagine the feelings of those who have a direct connection to the tragedy of September 11th. Those who were first-hand witnesses of the planes crashing into the Twin Towers. Those who watched people – someone’s mother, father, sister, brother, daughter, son – jump to their death. Those who inhaled the soot, who learned of their friend or loved one’s passing… I can not imagine.

There are those, many people, who say they remember exactly where they were when the tragedy occurred. I’ve tossed this around in my head so many times and just the other day I almost got a haze of recall about the day, but then it slipped away.

It’s taken many years for me to understand my brain’s inability to pull up that memory as well as many others.

I was in the military and pregnant during Desert Storm, and the news that was broadcast during my pregnancy only had to do with the war. The anxiety that welled up in me every time I learned of anything going on “over there” was overwhelming and I refused to watch the news after that. Then and to this day I know very little about Desert Storm. That time period began my quest to ignore all things terrorist and war related.

Today, with the coverage of 9/11 memories and tributes, I became mesmerized as a man spoke of his first-hand memories of the day. He ran toward the burning buildings and stood nearby watching the mayhem. At one point, he saw a man and a woman who he speculated were co-workers who had found each other and were comforting each other. They stood in a blown-out window high above the street and grasped hands. He thought they would wait for rescue, but the jumped to their deaths.

His account of that day sent a stream of chills and anxiety through my body with such a jolt that I remembered why I avoid terrorism and war talk. I can not imagine your pain or feelings if you’ve had to deal with this head on. I hope that as time passes more will be freed from the pain of that awful experience; one that continues to unite us.

Free eye shadow with purchase

I am one of those women who doesn’t wear makeup on a regular basis and when I do I like it to naturally accentuate my features. When there is an occasion that I think calls for jazzing up my look a little I normally shape my eyebrows then apply brow pencil, eye shadow, mascara and tinted gloss. The problem is I never have the right kind or color of eye shadow.

Since I have hooded eyelids and I wear glasses, applying eye makeup correctly is a must, but I’m not going to pay an arm and a leg for it. I’m looking for cosmetics at affordable prices and I think I can find some at Cosmetic Cosmos. Right now if you “like” them on Facebook you’ll receive a free cream eye shadow set (a $19.50 value) with any order of $30 or more.

So you know what I’m thinking about doing right? Yup, ordering from Cosmetic Cosmos and getting some cream eye shadow.

Nanocarriers to help treat cancer?

In the September 5th issue of Jet Magazine I read about Tyrone Porter, Ph.D., who is the assistant professor of engineering at Boston University. He is working on developing nanocarriers that are 1/20th the size of red blood cells and will deliver chemotherapy drugs directly into cancerous tumors. His work could diminish the collateral damage to healthy organs and could revolutionize the treatments for sickle cell anemia, diabetes and cancer.

I find this type of work extremely interesting and promising especially since it’s something that could mean seeing some changes in treatments of these devastating illnesses during our lifetime.

All me… top to bottom

When I started this post the title was “Just me, about me, what’s up with me,” but all I saw was “me me me.” Yea, this is about me, about my thoughts, feelings, happenings… It’s about trying to get pass this blockage going on in my brain particularly the part that’s controlling mood and creativity. The part that’s stuck on the way people talk to me and what they say. The part that beats myself up and that’s too tired to do any of the one thousand things that are on my to-do list.

I’ve been thinking about you. Yes, you – those who read my blog. I’ve neglected you somewhat, but it isn’t on purpose. It’s being consumed by my life and my brain. The same brain that fuels me to write, create and share has also been hindering the progress of my days. I sit and click and read and comment… I know what I need to write, but what I want to write is somehow stuck. It’s stuck between my muse (closer to her than to me), my brain (that seems to be filled with everything but creativity), my heart and my fingers.

Maybe if I start from the top and list everything I think, feel… everything that happens or has happens. Maybe if I reveal and open myself up here it will help the flow…. my flow.

Let’s see…

My hair – I know I’ve mentioned my love/hate relationship with my hair before, but I think I’m going to take a love perspective from now on. (Wish me luck with that one.) Remember I was natural for about 12 or 13 years. It began with growing my relaxer out in the late 90s, locking for 11 years (they were to my waist), then combing those out and wearing puffs, twists and braids. I was so unsatisfied with that style ‘cause it was super extra work in the morning and I DO NOT like fooling with my hair. I relaxed about three months ago and loved it up until a few weeks ago. I honestly think some of my meds are causing my hair to fall out even more. So, I’ve been watching a cute young lady on YouTube style her beautifully long natural hair and I have new enthusiasm for it AND I joined a natural hair community.

My face – Love it! I still look young (although I can see the aging going on), but my eyebrows need some major attention… and I need to get to the dentist ASAP.

My body – VISUALLY: I desire to strengthen my core so my extra four-baby-having skin will suck in a little… uh, a lot! Other than that I don’t think I’m interested in losing as much weight as I thought I was. I could lose some inches though… Thighs, waist, arms…. and tighten the booty. Do you want to know the real reason I don’t want to lose a lot of weight? ‘Cause I am loving my BOOBS! I’ve never had such great boobs in all my days – unless pregnant. Usually when I lose weight the boobies shrink a little. *HEE*… Ahem! PHYSICALLY: Over the past few weeks or so I haven’t felt that well. A lot of weakness in my legs and exhaustion. More pain than usual. It could be that the start of the school year is having a negative affect on my already shaky health or that things are getting worse. I’ve tried resting as much as I can. The worse part is not being able to work and accomplish everything I need to.

My heart – This heart thing is always an issue and it takes up too much of my brain. I finally got over the pain of the most recent devastating experience and went out on a few dates hoping to meet some relationship candidates. They weren’t a total waste of time. There’s the one guy who is interested, but never has time. There’s the guy who is (was?) way too interested and lives three hours away by plane, but a recent conversation with him took a bad turn. At least for me. I inadvertently hurt his feelings by being honest. I wasn’t mean or rude, but his response – so to speak – was to hurt me in return by throwing some things back in my face and justifying it by saying I hurt his feelings. Not only was he mean, but his words were untrue or unfair. I really don’t like being misunderstood and I absolutely don’t put up with someone hurting me in return just because they’re hurt. It’s inexcusable. For me, a deal breaker.

In other areas… My home: Organizing and decorating are going really well. I’m excited and happy by the results and progress. My finances: Finally recovering from the devastation of the things I allowed during my failed marriage. I’m even excited about that, which includes some additional income and that’s always positive. My children: Sigh…. they keep me busy and crazy in all their adorably wonderful antics.

What plagues me then because none of these things seem to be bothering me that deeply? Being behind on writing, reviews and work? Running out of time each day to get things done? Not liking to go to bed alone so often? Hey, don’t judge me. Seems like I stay in a serious peak… and that’s all I’m going to say about that. Well, I will say that I’m continually surprised by that because I often feel so terribly, but it seems like that physical activity erases (delays? smothers?) the pains in my body and is replaced by… uh… euphoria. *chuckle*

Well, you’re all updated and I’m still no closer to feeling creative… I’m a little amused right now and feel a little freer so maybe that’ll lead to some flow and creativity. Wish me luck…

… Just Wordle …

Two thumbs up, one thumb down {product review}

My children and I always have something in our hands to drink. It’s normally a bottle of water because I encourage healthy beverages and real hydration. They also drink other things like 100 percent juice and the occasional hot or iced tea, lemonade and the rare half a cup of soda, which bugs me every time they happily guzzle it down.

Those little thirsty monsters are always happy to help me try a new product so they were more than happy to sample Little Me Tea, which is lightly sweetened with fruit and vegetable juices with only 1 gram per ounce of sugar. It’s also rich in antioxidants, fortified with vitamin C rich Acerola berry as well as white, Rooibos and herbal teas. And, to top it off, it’s caffeine free.

Compared to other popular beverages that children drink, Little Me Tea has the lowest content of sugar,the least amount of calories,  is only one of two drinks that are caffeine free, contains vegetable juice and a whole food vitamin C.

My three little ones don’t care anything about the ingredients although my middle daughter always asks if a particular juice is healthy or not. She’ll look at that bottle for the 100 percent or pictures of fruit. Her and her siblings taste tested two flavors: Julia’s Tropical Tea and Zane’s Grape Tea. My 7-year-old son, who normally doesn’t like any type of tea, said the grape is, “Okay…” and he didn’t finish his serving. Amareah liked  the grape, but Anna didn’t like either one. I do notice, however, that she will guzzle it down when she wants a taste of something besides water. Overall I think it’s a good choice for children, but it’s a taste that’ll probably have to grow on them if they’re used to drinking beverages that have stronger and sweeter tastes.

Little Me Tea is also good as a healthy treat like adding frozen or fresh fruit and freezing for a frosty treat or add to a yummy smoothie. To learn more about the tea and find out where to purchase visit LittleMeTea.com.

Check out the first time I introduced you to Little Me Tea.

Disclosure: I received samples of Little Me Tea to help facilitate this review. This did not effect my opinion and any opinions expressed here are my own. For more information review my complete policy.