True life confessions of a small town city girl.

Literally speaking....Thoughts for Thursday.

2009-08-06T20:22:00.000-07:00

We were driving by a car lot the other day and my husband pointed out a Jeep Wrangler to me. I have an affinity for them...I always have...but I digress. He asks me what I think of it and I respond "That Jeep is Hot!". My son over hears me and he responds, "That Jeep is not hot, I don't even see it burning!"

Today: My mom and I are talking and she jokingly says to my son that she will take a nap later with him and they can snore in stereo. My son literally walks over to the stereo system on the sofa table and starts snoring into the speaker!

I can not get over how literal he is! He truly takes what you say at face value. It makes me laugh so hard!

Oh really now?

2009-07-03T10:23:00.000-07:00

My son spent a week with my parents recently. My mom told me this morning of a funny moment they shared on the way home.

They stopped off at Walmart and got a new toy for the 3 hour ride home. My son chose Barricade from the Transformers movie.

In case you aren't familiar with how these toys work, most often they are in car form when you buy them and they are super easy to transform in robot form. Getting them back into car form however is a bit of a challenge. You have to put some of the pieces in just the right place...anyway, he was trying really hard to transform him back into a car and was getting frustrated. My mom could hear his frustration building so she asked him if he needed help.

His response "NO! I can do it, you just concentrate on driving."

And, he's only 5.

In a funk...

2009-06-29T22:25:00.001-07:00

Sorry I've been absent for such a big stretch. I'm in a funk. :( Lately I've not really been feeling the whole social networking, blogging, twittering love. I've been a real recluse.

What's been going on with us at casa de la small town city girl?

* Hubby broke his collar bone.
* DS spent five days with Granny and Poohpah
* I finished painting my kitchen
* I shampooed my carpets
* I went on a thrift store shopping spree with a good friend.
* I've been feeling super funky and don't know why.

Hopefully this will pass soon. I really hate all the negative energy, it really stinks. Keep happy thoughts for me. :)

Thanks!

Discrimination is not good!

2009-06-10T19:36:00.000-07:00

Regardless of your views on gay marriage, this family was grossly discriminated against. Had they lied about their status and pretended to be sisters, aunts, etc. I can almost guarantee that they would have been let by without a second look. Please take the time if you are so inclined to respond to the post HERE and let Mr. Lowe know your feelings.

EXCITED!!

2009-06-09T21:16:00.001-07:00

I am so excited, I just signed up for the adopt a US soldier program!

I was reading a book on frugal living (surprise) and it mentioned one of the things you could do with excess stockpiled items is to send it to the soldiers overseas. I think this is a fabulous idea and so I hopped on my trusty search engine and sure enough there is an organization that will pair you with a soldier! I should be receiving a match in the next few days!

If you are interested in looking into it yourself, here's the link.

What a great lesson for my son too! I'm just plain excited!

Hubby says I'm loosing my touch. He's kidding of course.

2009-06-07T19:07:00.000-07:00

Albertsons is running a great sale this week where you spend $10 on select items and they immediately deduct $3. This is in addition to having double coupons in their ad. You can use 3 per transaction. If you pair your items correctly with your coupons and the sale, you can get many items for very low cost or free.

I ended up with 10 transactions to get all of the stuff in the picture below and a few things not pictured (one DiGiorno flat bread sandwich, a 1/2 gallon of chocolate milk and one more box of Planter's Big Nut bars)

Here's a list of all that's pictured & what's not:
13 boxes Ritz crackers
8 boxes Planters Big Nut bars
2 Easy Mac Individual Mac&Cheese
4 Land o Lakes Butter with Canola Oil
2 boxes Captain Crunch Cereal
2 DiGiorno Flatbread melt sandwiches
2 Nabisco Premium Saltine Crackers (8 sleeves per box)
2 boxes Velveeta Shells & Cheese
2 boxes Tazo Awake Tea
3 General Foods International Chai Latte
1 General Foods International French Vanilla Latte
2 Seattle Times Sunday Papers

Not pictured:
1 DiGiorno Flatbread melt sandwich
1 Half Gallon Dairygold Chocolate Milk
1 box Planters Big Nut Bars

My total out of pocket for all of this was $13.03. As it was, ALL of the crackers, nut bars, flatbread sandwiches and mac & cheese were FREE. I ended up paying some for the milk, cereal, butter, tazo teas, general foods coffees, and of course my Sunday Papers.

I plan to give some of the crackers to my MIL and a good family friend as well as donate what we won't use. My husband, son and myself LOVE the nut bars and I estimate those will last us about 3 weeks...really! And the rest just goes into the stockpile. I may use the teas and coffees as gifts because many of our family and friends love it. It's all just nice to have around.

Other than this shopping adventure, I have not spent any money on groceries this week. We've been eating out of the stockpile.

My DH was teasing me that I'm loosing my touch because rarely do I actually spend this much at the store anymore, but with the Ritz crackers retailing at $4.19/box and my having gotten 13 boxes....I'd say he's just razzing me. ;)

Super Cheap Summer Shoes!!

2009-06-07T12:48:00.000-07:00

I just read over at hip2save about a deal on crocs.

If you go to crocs.com and place an order of two or more pairs, you will receive 1/2 off each pair. Making this even sweeter is the fact that women's and girl's mary jane styles are on sale! Women's are $14.99 and girl's are $9.99. Buy two and you will be paying $7.49 for women's and 4.99 for girl's. PLUS use this code: MALINDI09 and you will get FREE shipping!

I just bought 3 pairs for only $22.47! Considering retail on these shoes is $39.95 each pair, I'll say I got a heck of a deal!

There aren't many sizes left, but you might just get lucky! Let me know if you get a good deal.

Iced Coffee Anyone?

2009-06-05T07:04:00.000-07:00

I read somewhere the other day a really great idea for making iced coffee at home.

The writer suggested when you are finished with your coffee for the day, if there is any leftover, you freeze it in an ice cube tray to use later as the ice cubes for iced coffee. This uses up the java and prevents your iced beverage from getting watered down. I thought this was a great idea and I immediately implemented it. I've made myself an iced coffee the past two days and they are fabulous! I even had to leave one unfinished to run an errand and when I got home, I just added another couple of cubes and it was still full strength. What a simple, and frugal idea!

Thoughtful Thursday...Warning...this one is a bit crass.

2009-06-04T19:37:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered if the one dollar bills in your wallet were ever in a stripper's butt crack or elsewhere?

If not, you're wondering now. Have a nice day . :)

Victory!

2009-05-28T11:43:00.000-07:00

I have been having trouble with a particular checker at my local Albertsons. Whenever there is an item on sale and I have a coupon for it, she refuses to take it if the coupon is $.01 over the value.

For example, I had a coupon for $1 off any refrigerated Nestle cookie dough. I found one variety of cookies on clearance for $.99 and was going to purchase them with my coupon and get them for free. She wouldn't take the coupon. I asked her nicely to reduce the amount of the coupon to $.99 so I wouldn't be getting an overage and she told me that was coupon fraud.

Please pardon my frustration, but that is CRAP! All the other stores do it.

So today, I decided I was going to call customer care because there are a couple of things on sale this week that I can get for free if they will just adjust the stinking coupon! The customer care associate was super nice and took all my info and told me she would have a service area manager give me a call.

About 5 minutes later, literally. A very nice woman called me back and went over the situation with me and confirmed my suspicions. They were supposed to take the coupon! VICTORY! She told me she would speak with the front end manager at the store where I had the problem and let her know (she actually is the one who I had the problem with). I took her name and title so I could let the cashier know if I happen to get to the store before the discussion happens.

I just love it when I'm right!

Deep Thought Thursday...

2009-05-28T07:05:00.000-07:00

Do fish drink water?

Deep thoughts for a Thursday.

2009-05-21T08:08:00.000-07:00

A sneek peek into the mind of my husband who has too much time on his hands while driving. He likes to ask me the most random, thought provoking questions. Those along the lines of "what came first, the chicken or the egg". So, courtesy of him and his absolute randomness I have decided to post his "Deep Thoughts".

Thanks Honey, for all the conversation starters. I love you.

If a fly couldn't fly, what would it be called? Would it be called a walk? What do you think?

Whoever would have thought? What a great idea!

2009-05-20T07:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Crystal over at Money Saving Mom for the great post on recycling your cut up credit cards! In this day and age many of us still have one or two of these dreaded monsters. We probably never thought, however; to create such a work of art with the ones we decide no longer belong in our wallets, safety deposit boxes or home safes. Not to mention the expireds, broken magnetic strips, etc. Here is a wonderful way to not only recycle your trash, but also display your commitment to becoming debt free!

Here is the original post with detailed instructions on how to make it. If you do decide to make one, please post a picture on your blog and come back and leave me a comment so I can see your beautiful creations.

Really??? Like we really needed to see that!

2009-05-18T09:57:00.000-07:00

DH and I were watching a television program yesterday and a commercial came on that I was slightly put off by. You may have seen it, maybe not...it's for Clearblue Easy Pregnancy Tests.

Most of us gals who have taken one (or a few) of these modern day helpers are very familiar with how they work. We don't need a visual aid. Read the directions...'nuff said. Anyway in the commercial, someone at the company thought it would be a great idea to show just how easy it is for this test to work and they actually show a stream pee splashing no less on the absorbent end of the stick. YUCK! As gross as it is, I just feel the need to share.

Those of you who haven't seen it are in for a treat...I found it on YouTube.

Here you go:

And the winner is....

2009-05-17T17:18:00.000-07:00

Courtesy of Random.org The winner of my 100 post Partylite Prize pack of candles....

Random Integer Generator
Here are your random numbers:2
Timestamp: 2009-05-18 00:17:35 UTC

Paisley Penguin! Thanks for playing! I'll be in touch to get you your candles.

Mother Nature....please read.

2009-05-14T10:45:00.000-07:00

Dear Mother Nature,

I would like to ask you a few questions. Is it not May by your calendar? Did spring not start on March 23rd? Is spring not supposed to be somewhat warm? I would like to know when exactly we are to expect the nice and warm spring weather that we are so accustomed to here in the Pacific Northwest. If you could please get on that.

Thank you.
small town city girl

It's finally here!! MY 100th POST!

2009-05-13T10:23:00.000-07:00

I promised a giveaway and I always deliver on my promises! Leave a comment with your blog link or email address and I will enter you in a drawing for an assorted Partylite Candle gift pack. I will draw the winner using the random integer selector and post the results next week. The giveaway will close on Saturday at midnight PST.

Good Luck! And THANKS for sticking with me this long.

Free Bodycology Sample from Walmart

2009-05-13T10:20:00.001-07:00

Yay! FREE Froo Froo yummy smelling lotions and potions from our good friends at Walmart.

Go here to snag a FREE sample of Bodycology Uplifting Coconut Lime or Cozy Brown Sugar Vanilla! You'll get a FREE sample of hand soap, lotion and body mist! Plus, you'll get to choose between the 2 scents.

I love Walmart Samples, they really do send them and they don't bombard your inbox with junk emails.

Enjoy!!

Great deals at Albertsons!

2009-05-12T20:15:00.000-07:00

I got some really great deals at Albertsons this week! They were running a promotion where if you purchased $10 in selected various products, they would take $3 off your total right away. The deal was made sweeter when Sunday's paper arrived on my doorstep and had 3 coupon doublers in it. Naturally I obtained as many of these as I could without seeming obnoxious. I ended up with 3 copies of the ad which allowed me 9 coupon doublers up to $1 each. The trick was I had to separate my transactions into 3 because you were only allowed 3 doublers per order. So here's what I ended up with.

8 Easy Mac Individual Serving Cups
1 Capri Sun Sunrise Drink
2 Bagelful Frozen Bagels
4 Kraft BBQ Sauces
1 Kraft Ranch Bacon Salad Dressing
4 Kraft Mayo Squeezable
3 Kraft Miracle Whip Squeezeable
2 Bar-S Bun Length Hot Dogs

Between all 3 of my transactions, I used all 9 of my doublers which took off $9 and received $9 off because of the promotion. I also had $19 in coupons. The sale prices for all of my items was $37.

Here's the math $37 - $9 promotion = $28 - $19 coupons = $9 - $9 doublers = $0

There was tax on the Capri Sun drink so I paid a total OOP of $.04 for all of the above listed items. WHOO HOO!!

We are officially stocked up now of BBQ sauce and Mayo/Miracle Whip for awile.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!

2009-05-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

Hope all you mother's have a wonderful day!

If you want an inspiring read, check out MamaNeena's Mother's Day Post Here. It will undoubtedly make you smile!

ENJOY!

Ugly, nasty, wretched virus!

2009-05-09T20:56:00.000-07:00

I had a computer virus!

It sucked big time!

It took me two full days of working to remove it.

I'm pretty sure it's gone now.

But, I'm still a little burned by the experience.

I don't understand why people who are obviously brilliant have to spend their time creating such a malicious, hurtful nastiness that attacks people they don't even know. It seems to me that their time would be better spent doing something else.

Maybe that's just me though.

Eating from our stockpile.

2009-05-03T21:17:00.000-07:00

Today I was sitting in the kitchen at the table and I was trying to plan our dinner menu for the next week. I decided to try and come up with as many ideas as i could using our stockpile.

We have accumulated many a things in the past 9 months that I have been couponing. Our refrigerator, freezer, pantry and all of our available cupboard space is completely jam-packed. I thought it might be a good idea to use up some things. Plus that I want to see just how much we will have after my experiment. I'm guessing that I will only have to replace items in the fridge and freezer. I'm thinking that the cupboards will still be extremely full. So, I made my list of dinners for the next 10 days. I also went through the freezer and wrote down main dish ideas for 7 more days but I will still need to plan the sides on those days.

Here's what I came up with.

* BBQ Chicken Drumsticks, Scalloped Potatoes, Salad & Sauteed Mushrooms and Onions
* Lasagna, Garlic Bread Sticks & Salad
* Black Bean/Chicken Enchiladas, Spanish Rice & Corn
* Cube Steak, Garlic Noodles & Asparagus
* Breakfast Casserole & Cantaloupe
* Isernios Chicken Sausages, Sweet Potatoes & Green Beans
* Meatloaf, Cornbread & Green Beans
* Kielbasa Sausage, Fried New Potatoes & Corn on the Cob
* Roasted Chicken, Rice a Roni & Glazed Carrots
* Slowcooker BBQ Beef, Pasta Roni & Broccoli Florets

I did have to make a stop at the grocery store to pick up a few things that I didn't have in my stock pile to complete the meals. I ended up spending $33 of our $75 weekly food budget. I should not have to go back to the store for at least 4 days and even then it will only be for milk, bread and eggs.

You might notice that there aren't that many fruits in our menu, this is simply because these are only dinners. We tend to eat fruit for breakfast, lunches and snacks more often than we do for dinner. We do strive very hard to eat from every color of the rainbow. ;)

This should be a fun experiment. I'm hoping to keep myself on track and not go out to eat during this time. We also have plenty of food for breakfasts, lunches and snacks.

I'll let you know how it goes.

Another pee post. Different pee though.

2009-05-01T10:44:00.000-07:00

So today whilest cleaning the bathroom; I decided to deep clean and scrub the walls and everything. I know right? I was feeling really ambitious!

So, cleaning the walls....I discovered that boys/men are gross, icky, dirty mongers. How on earth does pee end up on the wall? The wall is like a foot and a half away from the toilet! I absolutely don't know! So, from now on when cleaning the bathroom, I will be cleaning all the walls and the side of the vanity to make sure that there isn't excrement on them.

UGH! Just one more thing to do.

Did you learn any fun tidbits this week?

Would you like more fun, family advice? Visit Homemaker Barbi's Family Friday post here.

Make it yourself Monday....Pea Salad

2009-04-27T07:46:00.000-07:00

I found this idea at the local Fred Meyer Deli and because I couldn't justify paying $5.99/lb I concocted this version of the recipe by myself. I found it to be YUMMY! My MIL liked it as well. DH said it was a bit to pea-ey for his taste and suggested I add more bacon. But, who doensn't like more bacon? Here you go: PEA SALAD

* 1 bag of frozen peas thawed (tip: open the bag into your collander and run hot water over them while shaking, this will thaw them nicely)
* 1/2 pound of bacon, browned, drained and crumbled. (tip: I cut the bacon up into small pieces with kitchen shears while it's still raw, then I brown the bits)
* 2 Tbsp of diced dehydrated onion, you could also use fresh if you like
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
* 1/8 - 1/4 cup ranch salad dressing to taste
* 1 tsp black pepper

Mix up all the ingredients and let chill for about an hour before serving.

This is super YUMMY! Now go make it yourself!

But, I'm a nice person...

2009-04-26T10:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Girl from Highschool who won't accept me as a facebook friend,

I have no idea as to why you won't accept my invitation to be your friend on facebook. I truly do know you and thought we were friends during school. Remember me? I had a locker assignment right next to you for many years because our school based assignments on birthdays and we happen to share the same one. And about that, are you maybe mad because we had to share the same room in the hospital the day we were born? Did it make you mad that I was always nice to you? Were you perhaps burdenend by the fact that we have known each other since birth and our families know each other too? Was that a bit of oblilgatory friendship that we shared in school maybe? If so, could you just write me a little note back and let me know? Because silly me, I thought you were really my friend who I had lost touch with and was genuinely curious as to how you are and have been for the past 12 years!

I truly do hope things are well for you and I truly do hope to hear back.

Thanks and take care,
small town city girl

So, I have to brag a bit...

2009-04-23T16:08:00.000-07:00

My son is only 5. He turned 5 in March, so he is "just 5". Today, we were at Walmart and he wanted to get a Lego playset. He chose the police helicopter, with all of its 94 peices , instructions for big kids and all that jazz. So, I let him get it thinking it would be a great project for us to put together as a team. We get home and he immediately wants to tear into the box and start. I hesitate because I have a load of groceries to put away first, but decide to let him begin without me. The kid put the whole thing together without even the slightest bit of help! I was so proud! He was so proud! It was a great day!

This is what he ended up with. And yes, his really does look like this!

Make it yourself Monday...Applesauce

2009-04-20T19:20:00.000-07:00

This is my family's favorite! Especially when served warm and over ice cream. I do have to make it the "hard" way as my mom says because I don't have a kitchen center like she does. It's still a lot of fun and it's so good, it's worth every minute! Enjoy!

Start with at least 4 pounds of apples to make it worth your while.

Quarter, core and peel each apple.

Dice them all up and put them in a big dutch oven pan, add about 1/2 cup of water, cover and boil for about 15 minutes. More or less until they are able to be mashed.

Remove the apples from the heat and mash with your potato masher until they are as smooth or chunky as you like. Then add BROWN SUGAR (about 1/2-3/4 cup) Cinnamon (to taste, we like lots! 4 tbsp) and a dash of nutmeg (about 3/4 tsp) Stir it all up and ENJOY!!

GO, Make it yourself!

Blah!

2009-04-17T18:01:00.001-07:00

Tired, sore, grumpy and bored....yup, that about sums it up.

How are you?

The amazing capabilities of a blowdryer...

2009-04-16T11:14:00.000-07:00

As I was blow drying my hair today, I was thinking. This little piece of machinery does a wonderful job of removing all the water from my hair. At the same time it is perfectly smoothing and straightening each and every strand. It's also triple timing by removing any lumps and bumps that might have been if I had let my hair dry naturally. This little machine truly ROCKS and I don't know what I would do without it.

Then I got to thinking....Do you think it could do the same for my thighs and rear? Wouldn't that be nice? Whip out the good ol' blow dryer and gone would be any trace of cellulite or imperfection! Ahhhhh, the world would never be the same, we would have no need for liposuction or lifts. Wouldn't that be GREAT?!? Maybe I'll figure out a way to make that work.

FREE Redbox code good today only...

2009-04-13T09:26:00.000-07:00

Get a free Redbox movie rental with the code J89LA2. This code is good today only (4/13). Click here to find a Redbox location near you.

Almost to my 100th post...

2009-04-13T08:49:00.000-07:00

I've almost reached my 100th post! When I do, I think I'm going to clean out my candle closet and do a give away. One of my lucky readers is going to get a care package of my most favorite Partylite candles. I'll make it good, I promise. My candle closet is full to the brim with wonderful little treasures.

For those who don't know (probably everyone except paisley penguin) I'm a Partylite consultant in addition to being a SAHM.

So, in the next couple of weeks be on the look out!

Q: What is the most annoying toy in the universe?

2009-04-12T09:51:00.000-07:00

A: TRANSFORMERS!

We are up to a count of oh, 17 of these monster toys. I can honestly tell you that I am about done hearing the words "Mom can you transform him for me?". The little people (and I say little, because they have to have small hands at least!) who make these annoying toys must have some complete and udder hatred for all parents of small children. The age limits on these things are sometimes as young as 4 and on a few of them, DH and myself have spent more than an hour trying to "transform" one! Yes, ONE! The horrible part, my son is in love with them. So even in my most frustrated state, I will "transform him" just one more time.

Curse you, tranformer making guy! CURSE YOU!

Happy Easter.

2009-04-12T06:59:00.000-07:00

What's normal anyway?

2009-04-10T10:34:00.000-07:00

So, my mom has been visiting the past week. She just left this morning. We were soooooooooo busy. We went shopping many times, ventured to Ikea, packed a bunch of stuff to the consignment store, donated a lot of crap from my attic to charity, looked at some houses for her and my dad (they are moving this summer), and I did a bunch of cooking, dishes and driving! We even managed a trip to Costco in there. It was a wonderful visit. We both had a great time, but now the real fun begins. I get to put my house back together. UGH!

I did manage to finally sell all the stuff I listed on CL too, so at least my son was happy. He got to buy himself some new toys.

Hope everyone is great.

Love/Hate Relationship.

2009-04-01T22:35:00.000-07:00

I've decided that I love Craigslist but at the same time, I hate it!

I cleaned out my son's room recently and we collectively decided upon a few things that need to be put up for sale. So, today I listed them on Craigslist.

I love many things about this wonderful web classified like:

convenience
the fact that it's free
most people are generally nice when purchasing kids stuff
the fact that it's free
oh, and did I mention...it's free!

I also have decided that while there are many good qualities to this service, there are several that drive me nuts like:

people who email you and ask only if you still have the item not leaving a name or any other information
the same people; when you email back that you do and give contact information ie...a phone number, disregard said phone number and either never contact you back or email you again with another odd question.
people who email saying they want your item and ask immediately for an address as if they can just waltz over any time without a pre-agreed upon meeting time and/or place.

So, my advice to anyone just trying Craigslist for the first time is to just be normal! When you email someone about a listed item, give your name. Ask when a good time to complete the transaction would be. Don't call a phone number after 9:00 at night! And for goodness sake, at least give the person the courtesy of a response if they ask you a question. Use your manners.

And please, if you think of it, send happy thoughts into the atmosphere for me on the few (4) items I currently have listed that they sell quickly and without having to deal with too many weirdos.

Boogers...are they safe/healthy to eat?

2009-03-30T19:07:00.001-07:00

So, I'm sitting here at my computer and I feel the need to google boogers. Don't ask me why...because I truly don't know. Maybe it's because over 1/2 of the class at preschool has had a fasination lately with their nose, maybe it's because I need a kleenex, maybe it's just because I felt like it. Anyway, I googled booger and here's what I got.

Booger-Wikipedia.
What is a booger?
What is a booger made of?

Then I googled one of the top ten questions of probably every mother of a young child...Is it safe to eat a booger? Like I said, over 1/2 of our class has this obsession right now. So, I got some really weird answers.

My favorite although it took me nowhere was: Strange body facts, are boogers safe to eat and how do astronauts poop in space.

So, did I get my question answered? No, but I did have a very entertaining few minutes.

Boogers...who knew?

Anniversary Dinner...

2009-03-28T22:10:00.000-07:00

Today is my 7 year anniversary. DH and I have been together for 11 years though. We actually got married on our "anniversary" so today is our 7-11 anniversary. I thought it appropriate to visit our local 7-11 to celebrate.

My son could not have been more excited! He literally told everyone who would listen today that we were going to 7-11 for dinner. People looked at him like he was nuts. Good thing he's only 5 right?

So, we went to 7-11 and had our big bites, nachos and slurpees and our total for the entire "meal" was just over $12. Not too bad if I do say so.

The best part of the whole evening though was when we were all finished eating (in the car) my DH got out to throw out the trash and my son says to me "Mama, I love anniversary food!" He made my whole day.

Side note: we really are going to an all adult dinner, next week when my mom is visiting....but I really did want to do something fun and quirky for our actual anniversary and my son got to participate. A good time was had by all and that's what matters most.

Have any of you had a silly yet memorable anniversary?

Gimme a F...R...I...E...D! What does that spell?

2009-03-27T14:48:00.000-07:00

FRIED! That's my brain!

I'm so excited to report that my life is back to normal, as normal as it goes really.

Our preschool auction is over and we brought in about $4000! Thank you very much! We rocked the socks off that auction!

It's officially spring break next week and we've survived two field trips in the past two weeks. I'm ready to stay at home and be the "stay at home mom" that I'm supposed to be. The past few weeks I was beginning to feel like the "run around mom".

My DS and I cleaned out his room today and moved a few items around. He has soo much more space now it's unbelievable. I'm hoping this will inspire him to play in his room more and leave my living room in one piece. Wish me luck on that one. We packed away some of the "baby" stuff and opted to keep the cool big kid toys like Transformers out and move them to a bigger bucket.

All in all, I'm hoping this weeked will be pretty low key. We do need to start tackling the spare room/office/dog's bedroom and clean it out for an upcomming visit from Granny (my Mom). But that should only take a day or so.

Enjoy your weekend.

One more week!

2009-03-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

Only one more week until my life returns to normal! I've been completely buried in my son's preschool auction and it is finally over next week Saturday. Thank goodness! I don't know how much more my hubby is willing to put up with. Every day he comes home at lunch, he finds me on the computer with a phone stuck to my ear actively trying to procure yet another item to auction off. I must say though, I have learned a lot about our local businesses in the process. It has been fun but I am so ready for it to be history! So, until next week...

What do you want to do for your anniversary?

2009-02-26T09:06:00.000-08:00

This is kindof a funny story to share...Hubby and I were talking last night and we realized that this year our anniversary (March 28) is our 7-11 anniversary.

See we got married on our exact 4 year anniversary of dating and this year we've been married 7 years, but together 11. My reaction to this realization was "Oh my goodness, we have to go get a slurpee!"

For those not in this part of the country, 7-11 is a convenience store chain that exclusively carries Slurpee's frozen drinks. That's right folks, I want my anniversary dinner at 7-11! I told you before, I'm not your average girl. I'm pretty easy to please.

So it's been decided, on our anniversary, we are going to the 7-11 about 2 miles from our house and enjoying a slurpee and a hot dog. It will be super fun and we will enjoy every minute of it!

What's new?

2009-02-25T19:07:00.000-08:00

So, I survived my birthday. I wasn't too worried about it, but it really wasn't that much fun. I finally got my present from DH in the mail yesterday...wanna know what it was? Don't laugh, I REALLY wanted one. I got a really great flashlight! And really, I am thrilled with it. I had been asking for a great flashlight for a long time. I know that's not what most women would like for their 30th birthday, but I'm not your average girl.

I've been absent from my blogging world a lot this week because my son is having an auction at his preschool the end of March and I'm the fundraising chair. Whooo hoo! So, I've been VERY busy on the phone trying to rustle up some things that people might actually like to buy from this auction. I've been having good luck so far and the other moms that are helping are doing well also. It's been fun, but it will be GREAT when it's over.

I hope everyone is well.

It's so hard...to say goodbye.

2009-02-17T21:58:00.000-08:00

As I sit here writing this...the last of my posts in this time of my life, I'm saddened. See, tomorrow I'm turning a major corner in my life. That's right folks. I'm turning THIRTY!

I look back over what I've accomplished thus far in my life and it's all good. Afterall, it's gotten me where I am today. But still, the thought of being THIRTY, UGH! I can't believe that it's been 12 years since I graduated highschool. I'm old! I'm old enough technically to be a highschooler's mom! Not really, I wasn't that slutty but biologically it's possible.

Someone tonight at our preschool parent meeting commented on the fact that my checks have a very high number, 10020. And without even thinking I said "I've had the account since I was 16." Then it dawned on me, that's almost 1/2 my life! To have the same checking account! WOW!

So, here I sit with my wine in hand...I know right, I drink wine! In highschool, wine was what old people drank. Well, now that's me...the old person. I'm enjoying my wine, celebrating the last of my 20's, and quietly welcoming my 30's.

It won't be so bad. DH is still older than me. HAHA!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!

Gotta love it: FREE stuff!

2009-02-12T21:35:00.000-08:00

Let me start by suggesting that you sign yourself up for an email account that you can use when you register for these offers, this is simply to prevent overflow of spam to your primary email account. If you are like me and it doesn't bother you, then don't worry about it and just use your regular email.

So that being said, here are a bunch of FREE offers that I have come across this week.

* 10 FREE iTunes downloads when you sign up for Pulte Homes $2500 gas giveaway HERE.

* FREE subscription to Martha Stewart Living Magazine HERE.

* FREE subscription to Woman's Day Magazine HERE.

* FREE 10 minute phone call to anyone in the USA on Valentines day courtesy of FREE 411. Free 411 is offering a free 10 minute call to any phone number in the US on Valentine’s Day. To get your free call, just dial 1-800-FREE-411 on February 14th and listen to the prompts.

* FREE sample of Tide Total Care HERE.

* FREE Redbox Rentals: simply use code: BREAKROOM or DVDONME.
These are ongoing codes, they can be used once per debit/credit card, so you can rent more than one for free by using different cards!

Thanks to Freebie Blogger, Deal Seeking Mom, & Money Saving Mom.

This is just too funny not to share!

2009-02-10T13:01:00.000-08:00

My DH came across this and we couldn't stop laughing! ENJOY!

Jedi mind tricks.

2009-02-07T16:32:00.000-08:00

So, lately I've been thinking and I've come to the conclusion that my DS has supernatural powers. Powers of persuasion and charm. Not just affecting me though.

In the past month, I have been approached no less than 6 times by complete strangers in the super market, drug store, gas station and who remembers where else. Each time it's been by someone of a different dynamic. We've heard from the little old people, the middle aged soccer moms, the people my own age, and even once by a man probably in his late 40's early 50's. He's really the only one who actually creeped me out. You'll see why in a minute.

Each time we're greeted with a kind hello and then I'm informed by the onlooker of how sweet, cute, handsome, enthusiastic, kind, (insert your own compliment here) my son is. Nice, right? Well, here's the kicker. EVERY time, while this person is standing there complimenting me on the wonderful nature of my adorable son he is sitting there GLARING at them. Not just a little glare either. He is full on, scary face, glaring at them. And each time, the people make a comment on how cute he is while he's glaring too! I don't get it.

I think he has some odd special power. When he does smile at someone and it's VERY rare, it's even worse! I totally feel sorry for his wife someday. He already has "the look" down pat and at some point will unleash the full effect of that on some poor unsuspecting girl and she will fall hopelessly in love with him just like I did his daddy.

For a what? Really?????

2009-02-04T22:38:00.000-08:00

I called today to schedule my son's 5th birthday party.

We decided to go to a local pool and have a pool party. We can rent a room to do cake and presents for an hour plus a separate teaching pool area that's only 2.5 feet deep for an additional hour for a total of $125. Not too bad considering 1) it can accommodate all the children we need to invite 2) all the kids get to swim for this price too and 3) most of the other places I called were at least $200 for either less space, less kids or both.

When I first called, I told them what I wanted (the small room and the teaching pool)and the really nice lady that was helping me checked availability. The teaching pool was available no problem. Reserved! The room I wanted however, was already booked by another family. Shoot! Second choice...booked as well by the same family. Apparently ALL of the pool side rooms were booked by the same family. Enough space for 115 people! I asked the really nice organizer lady when this giant party would be over and she laughed as she told me that they had the entire space booked for the entire evening! Greedy bastards! I just want the one little room! Naturally the snicker in the voice of my helper caught my curiosity. I asked her why she was laughing. This family that so greedily rented all of the rooms had also rented the ENTIRE pool for the evening! They also rented a bouncy house (you know the giant ones like at carnivals, yeah that kind) that would be inflated in one of the rooms AND they rented the lazy river which is a currented area where you float down on inner tubes. The only thing these people didn't rent was the teaching pool which I now had reserved and the one other party room that is on the other side of the facility, which is going to have to do for our little party because I rented it before they could call back and decide that they needed more space. Ha Ha! Take that you greedy people!

Anyway, back to my crazy story. So, I was shocked that someone would need such a huge amount of space so I commented on the fact that it must be something really special. Again, my helper laughed...and again I asked. You all are dying to know what this HUGE party is for right??

You'll never guess...it's totally ridiculous. It's completely over the top. I mean really, I could see if it were for a graduation party or an 16 or 18th birthday. OH NO, this isn't for anything like that. This HUGE party that is costing these people more than $1000 is for: A LITTLE BOY'S FIRST BIRTHDAY! Can you believe it? How on earth are they going to top that next year?

My parting words to my phone helper were these "Well, thank you for all your help today and if you by chance speak to Jerrin's mom, please tell her I hope they enjoy their $1000 birthday party as I know we will enjoy our $125 one!" She cracked up and thanked me as well and wished me a good day.

I can not believe some people! If you happen to be reading this Jerrin's mom, I think you're crazy but thanks for stopping by anyway.

If only it were this easy...

2009-01-27T19:05:00.000-08:00

Dear Mr. Germ:

We regret to inform you that due to the current economic status, we have terminated your position as family illness infector. Many factors have brought us to this decision and while I'm sure you are shocked and upset by this notice I'm certain you will understand after careful scrutiny of the following reasons:

* the escalating costs of fuel for travel to and from our doctor's office.
* increased medication costs.
* space for storing as well as the money invested with the Kleenex corporation.
* money lost from time off from school and/or work.
* excessive washing of clothing and bedding due to messes caused by increased bodily secretions.
* and lastly but quite possibly most important, many sleepless nights.

We have greatly appreciated your tenure with our family and wish you well in your future endeavors. Please feel free to use us as a reference.

Sincerely,

The D Family

Repurposing butter wrappers...

2009-01-26T15:50:00.000-08:00

I read in a magazine today that when you finish using up a stick of butter rather than throw the wrapper away, put it in a ziploc bag and store it in the fridge until you need to grease a pan. Pull out the butter wrapper, grease the pan and then you'll truly have used up all the butter.

I thought that was a great tid bit to pass along.

"Random" meme stolen from MamaNeena

2009-01-26T15:28:00.000-08:00

25 random things about myself

1. I never went to prom because I didn't have a date.
2. I'm fascinated with past life regression.
3. I love the color green.
4. I used to smoke.
5. I still do when I've been drinking...a lot.
6. I think Air Supply rocks!
7. I think Angelina Jolie is a homewrecker!
8. When I was a teen, my room was plastered with Kirk Cameron and Jordan Knight posters.
9. I've only ever been to two concerts in my life.
10. One of which was NKOTB!
11. My favorite movie of all time is Dirty Dancing and I can recite it word for word.
12. I love to sing along with the Little Mermaid Soundtrack.
13. I love Charmed and it's the only series I own on DVD.
14. I'm very passionate about women's rights...all of them!
15. I really detest folding laundry.
16. I enjoy watching cartoons.
17. I also like Ralph's World music.
18. The ring finger of my right hand is double jointed.
19. I was born with a deviated septum in my nose.
20. I have scoliosis, my spine is shaped like a backward S.
21. I was never "taught" how to swim.
22. I was named after the TV show Mork and Mindy.
23. My DH and I chose our wedding date because it was his day off. We married on a Thursday.
24. I have a strange desire to visit Maine, and I always have.
25. My mom played the same lottery numbers for over 5 years and the one week she forgot to buy a ticket, every single number came up!

2009 Goals

2009-01-13T21:33:00.000-08:00

I promised to have these up yesterday...but it seems as of the past few weeks, I'm always a day behind. UGH! Anyway, I did get my list together and I'm ready to post it for all the world to see. hehe. Really, I just hope that by posting these goals I hold myself somewhat more accountable to them.

So, here we go:

FAMILY:
*Spend at least one day per week doing something fun! Going to the zoo, the park, playing in the yard...something other than the mundane shopping trips and errands we seem to do every week.

*Read to my DS more. We typically read at bedtime, but I want to read more during the day and let him practice reading to me. I know he's only four, but he's interested!

MARRIAGE:
*Incorporate one date night per month with DH ONLY...kid free!!

*Take kid free to the next level and have one weekend per quarter where kiddo stays with Nana for the entire weekend.

PERSONAL FINANCE:
*Build our savings account up to at least one and one half months expenses.

*Pay half of our one remaining credit card off.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS
*Beef up workouts from the current once per week to three times per week during the winter and 5 times per week during the summer months.

*Recommit to a food plan and stick to it with the intention of loosing 35-40 pounds by the end of the year.

There you have it! These are my goals for the year thus far. How about you?

Back from hiatus.

2009-01-10T19:45:00.000-08:00

Hello!!

I'm baaaaacccckkkk! I've been on a self imposed hiatus. I decided I was spending too much time online and made myself take a break. It was a spur of the moment decision and I will admit it was kind of nice to not worry about what was going on in my cyber bubble.

But, as with any lovely vacation...it must come to an end. So here I sit, typing away.

Our new year came and went without a hitch. DH was actually not at home when the clock struck 12. He was out rescuing a friend with a broken car but he did call me precisely as the Space Needle blew up and I watched from the comfort of my couch to wish me happy new year.

The past week or so has been pretty busy here in casa de la small town city girl. I have had more laundry than should be possible with a family of three. We've gone back to school and I have begun procurement for our preschool auction with full force. Our preschool board suckered me into being the fundraising chair this year so this is a BIG deal...the auction that is. I've been on the phone with many local business' trying to convince them to donate to us. So far, so good. I only have about 10 weeks left until the actual date so it shouldn't be that stressful. Who am I kidding?

Other than those things, I've been thinking lots about goals for myself for this year. I want to have something of a goal set for each area of my life: family, health, finance, etc. When I get them completely nailed down, I'll post. I'm thinking by Monday it all should be worked out.

How are all of you? Did you miss me?

A really great Christmas!

2008-12-27T10:03:00.000-08:00

Hello all!

I hope everyone is recovering nicely from all of the festivities! I always love the Christmas season but am always glad to see it come to a close as well. Our house was very successful this year in that we all got most of what we were hoping for and extras that we didn't ask for but still were glad to receive. That is a great bonus! My favorite gift this year came from DH. He got me the most beautiful royal purple bathrobe. It is the softest thing I have ever felt! DH got an insulated hoodie from me along with some hand cream that is super spectacular if you are someone whose fingers tend to split in the winter. It healed all three of his split fingers in less than 12 hours!! He was thrilled! And DS got a Razor scooter that he was soooo excited about. He hasn't stopped scooting since he opened it.

With all of the snow we've had, I haven't driven anywhere in almost two weeks! Needless to say, I'm going stir crazy! Today is the beginning of the great thaw though, it's supposed to get up into the 40's. The roads are looking better and we're in desperate need of some food staples like milk, eggs, and produce so we are venturing out for the first time in a long time. I feel like a hermit and am super glad to be emerging from my cave. I might even peek at the clearance Christmas items and see if there are any deals too good to pass up.

I've already taken down all of the decorations with the exception of the lights outside because those are still frozen in most places. It feels nice to have the house back to normal.

Hopefully everyone is well and enjoying what's left of the season! For now, I'm off to take a shower and head the the store. Wish me luck!

Here's what's happening in our neck of the woods.

2008-12-23T17:37:00.000-08:00

Here's what it looks like outside. And just so you know, we don't usually get this much snow in Seattle. We're known for rain in these parts. Someone must be filling in for mother nature while she's on vacation or something. Whoever it is has us sorely mistaken for people who like this white crap!

It's supposed to snow more tonight! UGH!

Seriously cruel....SERIOUSLY!

2008-12-23T17:11:00.000-08:00

So after being stuck inside for almost a week, digging my way through piles of laundry, and trying to get the house clean for Christmas morning, one of my favorite bloggers, Brenda from Seriously Mama tagged me for this GOTCHA meme. Cruel and evil, seriously (pun intended!). I'll admit that for a moment I contemplated submitting a picture of my socks but thought I might get razzed too much for it. Anyay....nice to meet you.

This is it...

1) Take a picture of yourself right NOW!
2) DON'T change your clothes, DON'T fix your hair... Just take a picture.
3) Post that picture with NO editing.
4) Post these instruction with your picture.
5) Tag 10 people to do this..

Now, who do I get to tag????

Mama Neena
Paisley Penguin
Financial Diva
Beans n taters Mama
Penny Pinching Diva

Super duper easy fudge!

2008-12-22T14:46:00.000-08:00

I found the BEST recipe for EASY fudge! I didn't think it was possible to find an easy fudge recipe, but it is and I have!

Here's what you do. Are you ready? Do you have 5 minutes (literally) to spare? Here you go.

1 16 - 18 oz container of peanut butter smooth or crunchy, you choose.
1 16 oz container of chocolate frosting.

Dump both items into a microwave safe bowl. Microwave on high for ONE minute! Mix well and pour into a lightly greased 8x8 pan. Put in the refrigerator until set. Viola! That's it!

The finished product resembles that of a peanut butter cup candy!! YUUUUMMMMY!

If you want even easier clean up, line your 8x8 pan with aluminum foil before pouring the fudge in, then all you have to do is lift out the foil/fudge and the pan is still clean!

I hope your family loves it as much as mine does.

It's snowing here...a lot!

2008-12-20T20:48:00.001-08:00

The past few days have been downright BORING! We've been stuck inside with colds and paralyzed by the fact that outside is covered in snow. I don't mind driving myself in the snow, but I really don't like to take my son as I don't trust the other drivers. We typically don't get a whole lot of the white stuff here in the greater Seattle area, but we do get a bit. This past week I would venture to say we have had more snow that all of last year combined. Don't quote me on that though, I didn't do any research. :)

We started the week off on an ok foot, we did our normal activities on Monday. Tuesday we had school and although it was only 25 degrees or so and snow was on the ground, the kids had a great time. Wednesday school was cancelled because of the "threat" of snow and wouldn't you know it...nothing fell. It was 35 degrees and the roads were better than the day before but we didn't have school. Late that night, the powder fell and fell and fell and fell. We didn't have school the next day or the rest of the week. We officially started winter break almost a full week early!

Why are we not taking advantage of the hills and going sledding you ask? Well, that's because we aren't prepared here in casa de la smalltowncitygirl. We haven't been boot shopping this year yet, we haven't purchased any of the sledding equipment that we promised ourselves we would be getting this year, and we have colds! YUCK! I have it the worst of everyone. I haven't been sleeping well because I cough myself silly and wake up DH. So, I've been sleeping on the couch...yippie!

As I'm typing, we are having more snow fall. It really is beautiful out and I love the quiet that the snow brings with it. It's as if the world is being insulated. It's really something. I'm hoping that this lovely virus that is infecting my body will pass with the weekend...keep your fingers crossed for me. Then we're off to shop for boots and sleds. Hopefully the stores still have something!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

"It was cheap"....YEAH RIGHT!

2008-12-11T11:27:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was snack mom at preschool and I forgot! I walked in the door and it dawned on me, whoops! It was also my work day in the classroom so I was unable to go to the store and pick something up. One of the other moms who didn't have to stay, offered to run and pick snack up for me. Very sweet! She came back with 4 pounds of bananas, 8 string cheese sticks, and a bag of gold fish crackers. When I asked her what I owed her she replied "the reciept is in the bag, it was cheap...like $10."

Now, to the normal person that might seem cheap. But to me, that was a fortune! I have been couponing so long now that I forget that I'm in the minority and most people spend much more than I do. My DH laughed at me when I told him this story because he thought I was going to pass out at the thought of spending regular price on anything. Love you honey!!

Just to give you an idea as to what I could buy with $10 take my trip to Walgreens last night.

Here's what I bought:

6 bottles of Arm & Hammer Laundry Soap (regular price $41.94)
4 boxes of Reynolds Wrap Aluminum Foil (regular price $6.76)
2 boxes of Sugar Free Jello brand Gelatin (regular price 2.38)
1 Loreal Face Wash (regular price $6.99)
1 Loreal Eye Cream (regular price $16.49)
1 Maybelline Lip Gloss (regular price $5.79)
1 Maybelline Lip Liner (regular price $6.49)
2 Sure Deoderents (regular price $5.98)
1 bag of bows (regular price $.99)
2 4 packs of Scotch brand gift tape (regular price $7.98)
1 Pedi Paws dog nail trimmer (regular price $19.99)

Here's what I spent: $28.65, and I have another $5 off my next purchase!

Overall I received $121.78 in products for just under $30. As you can see, $10 for snack is not cheap for me!

The moral of the story is...DON'T FORGET WHEN YOU ARE SNACK MOM!

Santa Claus is coming to town.....

2008-12-09T18:24:00.000-08:00

Today I received an email from one of the Mom's at preschool with a link to a site that you can print free letters from Santa off of. http://www.freelettersfromsantaclaus.com/

I had to share because it's really a great site if you have little kids that are in the full swing of believing in Santa. We haven't gone to see "Him" yet this year, but are planning to in the next few days. I already know what will be asked for and we are prepared for Christmas morning with the highly anticipated gift! This year at our house, it's an army set that has guys the size of GI Joe and it comes with a boat AND a helicopter! It's super great if you are a four year old boy!

Anyway, I went tonight and printed our letter off and then printed a matching envelope in Word. My plan is to take it with me to the mailbox tomorrow and mix it in with the mail so he'll have no clue. hehe. This is so much fun!!

We also have a nursery locally that brings in reindeer for the month of December and you can go get your pictures taken with them. We are planning that very soon as well! I love all the fun family activities this time of year!

What fun things do you all have planned for the coming weeks?

And then the cat cried...

2008-12-04T09:51:00.000-08:00

It's taken me a day to get over this, and I apologize in advance for no pictures. I just couldn't bring myself to take them. I was too mad!

After my joy filled post on Tuesday about our lovely little Christmas tree, we awoke yesterday morning at 4:30 am to the sound of the same tree crashing to the ground with a thud accompanied by the pop and clank of broken ornaments! What followed was not a pretty sight. The cat went flying through the house because she scared herself silly. I went flying into the living room because I, being awakend from a dead sleep thought someone was breaking into our house. Much to my dismay, it was just the tree....JUST the TREE! I was so mad, I seriously contemplated throwing the cat outside so she could find a nice racoon family to live happily ever after with. I was that damned mad! She was lucky it was cold and she's spent every day of her eight year old life inside or I just might have gone against my better judgement. She did however know how ticked I was at her and she NEVER left the laundry room (she sleeps on top of our water heater) yesterday and she has yet to come out and see me today.

It took me until 3:30 yesterday afternoon to relax enough to re-put up the tree. At 4:30 in the morning, I just picked it up and set it on the table. I had to remove all the ornaments that survived and pick up the broken glass. Then I had to cover the carpet with the tree skirt and lock the dog in her room so she wouldn't cut her paws because I was NOT about to vacuum at 5 am! I did finally decide that we do need a tree and I would put it together one more time. So it's back up.

I did have a heart to heart with the cat and let her know if she so much as comes close to it again, I will not be so kind. She might just find herself looking for a nice racoon boyfriend!

And to think, I was worried about the dog knocking over the tree! The cat has never done anything to it to make me concerned. Frickin' Trojan Cat!

Happy Holidays! BAH HUMBUG!

Our goofy little tree.

2008-12-02T22:14:00.000-08:00

After trying and trying to rearrange our furniture to fit our tree in the same place we had it last year, I gave up!

Here's the problem: I made curtains over the summer and blocked off about half of the light from our front window by doing so. But I made up for it when we moved the couch away from said window and put it agains the brick red wall as seen in the picture. We have space for the tree in front of the window now, but i was afraid that the dog would knock the tree over every time she tried to look out the window. I didn't want to deal with that. I tried to combat this issue by moving the couch back in front of the window so I could put the tree against the red wall like we always do. When the furniture was all in place, I went out to get the mail. When I came back inside, it was like walking into a dungeon!

Here's the solution: I decided to put my furniture back to it's original position and just get a smaller tree! So, I hopped myself and DS into the minivan and headed to Walgreens where we purchased ourselves a very sweet 4.5 foot artificial tree with lights already strung. I put that little guy up right on top of our endtable and we LOVE it! I think it's one of the cutest trees we've had yet.

Here's the outcome: What do you think?

I still have to put more presents under it, but not too shabby so far.

Do you all put up a real tree or do you go the artificial route like me?

Just for the fun of it...

2008-11-30T17:04:00.000-08:00

Play along….what have you done? Things I’ve done are in BOLD.

1. Started my own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than I can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland/world
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sung a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched lightening at sea
14. Taught myself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown my own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitchhiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of my ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught myself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful Geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had my portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had my picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Rode an elephant

What were you thankful for?

2008-11-30T17:01:00.001-08:00

My son, in a very sweet and tender moment told me this:

"Mama, I like Thanksgiving because I can tell you how good I feel and how good I like you and Daddy."

I hope you all had a safe and happy Thanksgiving.

We are back from our travels and I'm getting ready to put up our Christmas decorations tomorrow! YAY!

I also have a fun post that I stole from my good friend Paisley Penguin that I will put up in a few.

Good tidings to all!

DH caved...I saw Twilight at 12:01 am!

2008-11-21T13:06:00.000-08:00

My sweet hubby said he didn't mind if I went to the movie without him. And I must say I was shocked to see the diversity in the room. We had age ranges from about 9 to over 50! It was a fantastic mix. I sat next to a lady with her 14 year old son. She had read the books, he had not. It was a fun crowd.

As for the movie. Without giving away the book for any who haven't read it...are there any of you out there? I was disappointed. The movie did not do it for me.

I was really hoping they would capture all the greatness from the book. Similar to Harry Potter. I really admire J.K. Rowlings insistance that the movies not divert from the path of the book even more now! I don't think the screen writer did a very good job of encompassing the thoughts in Bella's head without actually having her say them. I don't think they did a good job at portraying the connection between Bella and Edward. I think they spent too much energy trying to make the movie contemporary enough to resonate with the kids in school today but they did it in a way that didn't make sense for the town of Forks. I was disappointed in the times that laughter broke out in the theater when it shouldn't have. They made very serious scenes humourus without need. I just didn't like it much at all! I didn't like the casting much either. I didn't feel the connections of the actors to the characters. With the exception of Emmett. I thought he was cast perfectly. I thought Bella was too confrontational and Edward was just plain wrong. They didn't dress him like was mentioned in the book, he always seemed to have a dorky, confused look on his face and he just wasn't that sexy!. Other small things too, like the Cullen house, the flying in the trees, and the eating dinner at the diner every night. I thought Bella enjoyed cooking for her father like a release of sorts. I was just disappointed. (Sigh)

Would I see it again? Absolutely not in the theater. I will probably rent it when it comes out just to see if my mind is changed at all after rereading the books.

If you haven't read the book, DON'T see the movie first. You will definitely regret it.

Attention Twilight Fans!

2008-11-20T08:28:00.000-08:00

The movie opens TONIGHT at 12:00am!! I'm so excited that I can't even tell you! I'm working on convincing my DH that I NEED to go see it when it opens. He thinks I'm crazy! I think I'm going to win. hehe.

Also, I found a really great bit of info and I would like to share it. Did you know that there was to be a fifth book! Well there was and it's called Midnight Sun. It' a retell of Twilight from Edward's perspective. Unfortunately someone leaked while the authour was still writing it. You can read all about what happened here. You can also download the pdf here of what she has so far and read it at your leisure! I'm so sad that someone would do this to her. We may never read the final draft as she said she is too sad about the situation to contiune working on the book. Stupid, STUPID people!!

Anyway, if you haven't read it already, go check it out. I'm 115 pages in of the 264 available to us. I HOPE she decides to finish it. I absolutely LOVE these characters. I have never been this obsessed about a series. I can't get enough!

Vote for your favorite...

2008-11-14T14:08:00.000-08:00

I wanted to see what the favorite upcoming holiday is amongst my small readership. If you would be so kind as to humor me and my very first blog poll, I would greatly appreciate it.

Enter your vote. There might be a giveaway in the future....

Books are my weakness.

2008-11-14T13:39:00.000-08:00

I was visiting with my friend and neighbor the other day and she was telling me about this book she had read and couldn't put down. We usually have similar taste in books, so I was listening attentatively. I'm always up for recommendations.

She let me borrow it and about 20 pages in I was completely hooked! I could not put this book down! I read it in less than 24 hours time of which 8 I was sleeping, 3 I was at preschool and several others I was othewise occupied with daily life. If I would have read it without stopping I would venture to say it would have taken about 5 hours. I typically read about 100 pages per hour when left to my own devices.

If you are wondering....it's Twilight by Stephanie Meyer. I know, it's a tennybopper book, but it's surprisingly great! I just finished New Moon today which is the second of the series of 4. This woman sure knows how to keep your interest. I'm hopefully getting and starting the third book tonight, Eclipse.

How about you all, what are you reading?

What's up with you?

2008-11-11T14:15:00.000-08:00

This has been a hectic month so far for us! We were notified at the first of the month that DH would be laid off until "at least" the beginning of the year thus landing us in the 'unemployed-kindof' category. Thank goodness that we have some what of a savings or we would be doomed. Our mortgage is $1685 and our unemployment benefit is only a bit more than $1800. That doesn't leave much wiggle room...who am I kidding? That doesn't leave room for anything considering that we would be left with electricity, water, sewer, garbage, heating oil, and not to mention food and our budget for all of these things would be a whole whoppin $187! So, if you are so inclined to think happy thoughts, pray, or even just wish us well we would greatly appreciate all the positive energy we could get.

I've been keeping really positive though and we haven't had to dip into savings yet this month. I know we are only into the first 11 days, but still...it could be worse.

I interviewed for a part time evening job last week and it went well. I should know more the end of this week. It would be cleaning office buildings and would work well for our schedule even when DH goes back to work.

I'm SUPER DUPER happy that I'm an early Christmas shopper and I am all but done with all of our gift "buying". I do have some home made items to finish off, but that won't be a problem. I'm faithful that we will be fine. Everything will work out.

How are things going with all of you?

I got to be a teacher today!!

2008-11-05T20:55:00.000-08:00

My son's preschool teacher is out of state visiting her son and his family. Because we attend a co-op preschool this does not mean that school is closed. Oh no, this means that we mommies and daddies get to tackle the enoumous job of being the "one in charge". I got to play teacher today! It was fun! I took attendance, I put together circle time, I got to sing the goodbye song and I even got to be in charge of taking the bucket of balls outside for outside play time. But the very best part of the day was when I was helping little Joshie* take off his name tag and he gave me a kiss on the cheek! I felt so special as Joshie is not my son. It was soo sweet.

The only bad part of the day was when it was over. I always wanted to work with kids but when college time came, there wasn't any money and I exhausted my financial aid. I know I could go back, but right now there isn't any money either. My plan is to take courses and become a paraprofessional when my son starts "real school". But working as the teacher today reminded me what I've missed out on.

*names were changed to protect privacy.

Make it yourself Monday...Cosmopolitan!

2008-11-04T10:04:00.000-08:00

In honor of a tiring day yesterday and a loooong day ahead today, I thought many might enjoy a lovely little coctail!

Behold....the Cosmopolitan!

This little lovely is a favorite of mine. Hopefully you will enjoy it as well.

1 ounce Vodka
1/2 ounce Triple Sec
1/2 ounce Lime Juice
1/2 ounce Cranberry Juice

Shake vodka, triple sec, lime and cranberry juice vigorously in a shaker with ice. Strain into a martini glass, garnish with a lime wedge on the rim, and serve.

Enjoy! Go...make it yourself!

My four year old voted...did you?

2008-11-04T09:50:00.000-08:00

This morning I was watching the Today show and my son; who was playing with puzzles on the floor, proudly announces that he's decided he's going to vote.

Here's the conversation.

DS: Momma, I'm going to vote!
Me: Really?
DS: Yes, one time.
Me: Ok.
DS: I'm going to vote for summer, because I like to play in the swimming pool!
Me: (laughing) If only it were that easy honey.

Then he went back to putting his puzzle together.

I think I'll vote for summer too!

Well, I'm off to get my free Starbucks! YUUUM!

I've been tagged...

2008-10-29T21:59:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged in the game of...name your top 7 oddities/secrets no one knows. I was tagged by my blogger friend Angie over at http://beansntatersmama.blogspot.com/. She has a really great blog with lots of tips for living frugally. Definitely check her out if you have a minute.

Here are my top seven...

1) I deep clean when I'm angry or upset. I'll break out the Comet and tackle the kitchen sink. I dust the corners of everything. You know, all the stuff that gets put off for once or twice a year. I do it when I'm venting.

2) My cleaner of choice is Windex. I love the stuff! I love the smell. I love the squeak the cloth makes when you wipe something. Yeah, I know I'm odd!

3) I organize my DH's sock drawer at least once a week. We share a dresser because our room is small and if it's not just so, all his stuff won't fit in. So, it's my only way of making sure stuff fits.

4) I still have to look up or ask someone what the name of Snoopy's counterpart is. The little yellow guy. As a child...and still, I can't remember if his name is Stockwood or Woodstock. BTW: I just googled it and it's Woodstock in case you didn't know either.

5) I LOVE to bake! It is calming and stress relief for me. I love to mix and pour and measure. Sometimes I love it so much that hubby asks me to stop. Those are the times when he takes things to work almost daily to share. :) His co-workers don't mind though.

6) We don't have a dishwasher, we do them by hand. But the oddity is that my dishes have assigned spaces in the dish drainer. I get upset if they are put in the wrong spot because they all won't fit if they aren't in the right way. (I know...OCD!)

7) I have a secret love for Tweety Bird. I used to have a lot of trinkets but as I've gotten older, I've gotten rid of them by way of donation or passing them on to other kiddos. But I still think she's pretty darned cute. And I do have a sticker on the back of my van. :)

Now, the fun part. I get to tag someone else....who will it be? Will it be you?

I'm thinking it will be MamaNeena. She should have some really funny things to share.

Thanks for stopping by.

Halloween Candy Recall

2008-10-28T10:15:00.000-07:00

HALLOWEEN CANDY RECALL

(you can verify this on snopes: http://www.snopes.com/food/warnings/coins.asp)

There is a new warning put out by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency....
Sherwood brand Pirate's Gold Milk Chocolate coins are being recalled due to the fact that they contain Melamine, the ingredient in milk product that has caused many infant deaths in china. These candies are sold at Costco, as well as many bulk and dollar stores. please make sure to check your childrenʼs Halloween candy and DO NOT LET THEM EAT THE PIRATE COINS (you know the ones wrapped in the shiny gold foil) and please let other parents know about this!

Make it yourself Monday...Banana Raisin Bread

2008-10-27T21:22:00.000-07:00

I'm snack mom at preschool this week so I decided to make a banana bread. And just for fun, I thought I'd add raisins. The kids love them and we can't serve them alone as they are "a choking hazard". I personally don't know too many almost 5 year olds that can't chew, but hey...whatever. I'll cook the little guys. So, here you go...here's the recipe. Go make it yourself...

Photo coming soon...

Banana Raisin Bread

1/3 cup butter softened
2/3 cup sugar
2 eggs
2 Tbsp milk
1 3/4 cups flour
1 1/4 tsp baking powder
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 cup mashed ripe banana
1 cup raisins (or chocolate chips)

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease loaf or muffin pan.

2. Cream together butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time beating well after each addition. Add milk; beat until blended.

3. Stir together flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda; add alternatly with banana to butter mixture beating until smooth after each addition. Gently fold in raisins (or chocolate chips). Pour into prepared pan.

4. Bake 60-65 minutes until wooden pick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes then remove from pan to wire cooling rack. For easier slicing; wrap in foil and store overnight.

If you do decide to try this recipe, let me know what you think! Thanks!

Why is it...

2008-10-27T21:11:00.000-07:00

That whenever you REALLY need something, in some way shape or form you get it totally unexpectedly? I'm not complaining at all. I've just been pondering this for today.

DH has been off work due to lack of work for 3 days now and it doesn't look promising for the rest of this week either. We are fine on food, our bills are paid, but we're running low on gas. We've made it our goal to get through these tough times without using our credit cards and we would like to stray away from tapping into savings as well. So being low on gas today, I've been plotting my week for all the driving we have to do and making trips run together.

When we got the mail this afternoon; wouldn't you know there was a rebate check we've been waiting for for $20! With gas coming down significantly here over the last couple of weeks...it's now $2.75 per gallon...I'm able to get over seven gallons of gas! WHOO HOO!! This is a big difference from a month ago when gas was almost one full dollar more.

I'm very thankful that I started couponing over the summer and have quite the stockpile of goods. I'm also thankful that we are taken care of. Our needs are met. It makes me very grateful!!

What are you grateful for?

Weekly Reflection

2008-10-21T10:39:00.000-07:00

Penny Pinching Diva has decided to make a weekly list of 5 things she is thankful for and I think this is a wonderful idea. I'm going to do it too....that is, if I remember every week. haha.

What am I thankful for this week?

1) My husband: He is such a loving man and hard worker, I don't know what I would do without him! Even though there are days where I would love to send him to Pluto because he's driving me crazy. Love you honey!!

2) My son: His laugh and carefree attitude keeps me grounded. It really does make you realize the important things in life.

3) Coffee: I'm thankful EVERY day for coffee!

4) Being able to pay our bills: In this economy, I'm thankful every day for being able to pay our bills. I know there are a lot of people in lots of financial trouble. I feel for them daily.

5) My Mom: My Mom is my best friend aside from DH and I don't know what I would do without her. Just this morning she helped me find something in my home while she was in her office 3 hours away. She is just plain amazing!

Make weekly reflection a part of your blog too!

Make it yourself Monday. Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

2008-10-20T22:44:00.000-07:00

Let me start by saying that DH is LOVING my new Monday feature. He gets home from work and the house smells of baked goods. He's in heaven! So here's today's recipe. Go...make it yourself!

Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

1/4 cup butter or margarine, softened
1/4 cup shortening
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg
1 1/4 cups flour
3/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
About 24 Mini Reese's Peanut Butter Cups

Heat oven to 375 degrees F

Combine butter, shortening, peanut butter, sugars and egg in large bowl, mix until well blended. Stir together flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt; gradually add to butter mixture until blended.

Shape into balls placing two inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheet. Lightly flatten with the back of a spoon and place a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup upside down in the middle of each cookie.

Bake 8-10 minutes or until set. Cool slightly, remove from cookie sheet to a wire rack to cool completely.

ENJOY! With a huge glass of milk of course!

Notes: I use Pampered Chef cooking stones to bake my cookies and they took a bit longer. It was about 13 minutes for me. You just want them to be golden and pretty.

The end of an era. So sad...

2008-10-17T12:42:00.000-07:00

We've finally arrived at the end of an era in our family. I find myself saddened and wishing it weren't so.

Yesterday I was informed of the correct pronunciation of fire hydrant. That's right my friends, the very last incorrect word from DS's vocabulary bit the dust yesterday!

Long gone are the "fra-vit" things and now we have the favorite things.

So long "gross-T store". Hello grocery store.

Goodbye "awful pop" and welcome toaster. (this one still holds my heart, because the waffles go pop!)

And as of yesterday, see you later "fire hard-rent".

I almost get choked up at the idea, but the fact of the matter is...I have an almost 5 year old!

Make it yourself Monday. Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Muffins

2008-10-13T09:16:00.000-07:00

I thought I might try a new feature to my blog. I noticed that a lot of bloggers have topics of the day that they reuse weekly. I thought I would start small with one for Monday morning.

Today's very first "Make it yourself Monday" item is a GREAT recipe I have developed over the past couple of years with trial and error and it's finally perfect! If I do say so myself...hehe.

I present you:

OATMEAL CHOCOLATE CHIP MUFFINS

1/2 cup applesauce
1/2 cup quick cooking oats
1/4 cup softened butter
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup chocolate chips or chunks

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray muffin cups or line with paper cups
2. Cream together butter and sugars. Add oats, applesauce, egg, and vanilla.
3. Add flour, baking soda and cinnamon and mix well until completely blended. Gently fold in chocolate chips or chunks.
4. Fill muffin cups 3/4 full and bake for 20-23 minutes until golden and set.

These are a family favorite! What I have been using for the chocolate is Hershey's Bilss candies. I unwrap them and cut them into 12 pieces each. It works great and the fact that the chocolate was a freebie is nice too. This would be a great recipe to hold onto until after halloween and you could steal some of the kiddos' chocolate to use.

Decorating for fall.

2008-10-10T11:42:00.000-07:00

I love fall! I love when the leaves start to change. I love the clean, crisp air. I especially love getting out all my candles and decorations and "cozy-ing" up the house.

Yesterday, DH came home and actually complained that the house was "hot". It was 73 degrees. Our furnace never came on once yesterday because I had my candles burning. :) Only a few...like 19. I took some pictures so everyone can enjoy them with me.

This is our side table by the couch. My grandma on my dad's side crocheted the doilly for me. ;)

This is the top of our entertainment center. The middle is actually a metal birdhouse that my mom found for me and it has pumpkins and leaves on it. It's really cute!!

This is my Global Fusion Hurricane by Party Lite. It's a mosiac, hand tiled hurricane done in burgandy, amber and bluish tiles. I have to admit that I thought this piece was ugly until I saw it in person. It has since become one of my favorite pieces!

And finally...If you come to my house, you will be greeted by Gretta my scarecrow. I love her! She's just so stinking cute! And my autumn wreath. I actually made it myself last year!

How do you decorate for fall?

Who do you side with?

2008-10-03T10:16:00.000-07:00

My friend PaisleyPenguin sent me a great link here where you can answer a few questions and the widget will pair you with the Presidential candidate that you sided most with. It's kindof cute at the end because the person you don't side with gets catapulted off of the see-saw. :)

Just kindof a fun widget to see what they say.

Enjoy!

Weird package.

2008-09-29T21:19:00.000-07:00

I signed up awhile back with your2cents.com to participate in paid surveys. I figured if I could generate at least coffee money for myself that would be good. It's been pretty slow going, but I have had some surveys that I qualified for.

About a week ago, I received an email for a survey for salad dressing. I took the survey and totally forgot about it. I do remember it had mentioned that I would be receiving samples to try and then would complete the survey and be credited $10 after trying the samples. I guess I figured it was a long shot. Today, DHL arrived at my door with a package. Inside was 2 bottles of Kraft Ranch Salad dressing and a packet advising me on how to use them (DUH!) and asking me to keep a diary of my feelings on the dressings. (Weird!)So for the next two weeks, I get to try two different varieties of Kraft Ranch Salad Dressing and then let them know my thoughts and feelings on their test market products.

My son thought it was really funny that mommy was getting Kraft in the mail. I'll have to admit, I thought it was pretty weird too.

Free Redbox Rental...September 29.

2008-09-29T13:02:00.000-07:00

I've come across another great freebie! The Financial Diva gets credit for tipping me off!

Redbox kiosk's can be found in grocery stores. You can go here to find a location near you.

When you go to check out your movie tonight, be sure to enter the code: LA45W7 for your free rental!

This code only works today September 29! HURRY!

You can't read that!

2008-09-28T22:32:00.000-07:00

Found this post over here and thought I would repost. This week is Banned Book Week (BBW). According to the American Library Association:

BBW celebrates the freedom to choose or the freedom to express one’s opinion even if that opinion might be considered unorthodox or unpopular and stresses the importance of ensuring the availability of those unorthodox or unpopular viewpoints to all who wish to read them.

After all, intellectual freedom can exist only where these two essential conditions are met.

The following are some of the most banned books in the U.S. I urge everyone, in honor of banned book week, to post this list on your blog, and mark the ones you have read in bold!

Then go out and read one of the other books on the list.

Never take your freedom for granted!

1. Scary Stories (Series) by Alvin Schwartz
2. Daddy's Roommate by Michael Willhoite
3. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
4. The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier
5. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
6. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
7. Harry Potter (Series) by J.K. Rowling
8. Forever by Judy Blume
9. Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
10. Alice (Series) by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
11. Heather Has Two Mommies by Leslea Newman
12. My Brother Sam is Dead by James Lincoln Collier and Christopher Collier
13. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
14. The Giver by Lois Lowry
15. It's Perfectly Normal by Robie Harris
16. Goosebumps (Series) by R.L. Stine
17. A Day No Pigs Would Die by Robert Newton Peck
18. The Color Purple by Alice Walker
19. Sex by Madonna
20. Earth's Children (Series) by Jean M. Auel
21. The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Paterson
22. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
23. Go Ask Alice by Anonymous
24. Fallen Angels by Walter Dean Myers
25. In the Night Kitchen by Maurice Sendak
26. The Stupids (Series) by Harry Allard
27. The Witches by Roald Dahl
28. The New Joy of Gay Sex by Charles Silverstein
29. Anastasia Krupnik (Series) by Lois Lowry
30. The Goats by Brock Cole
31. Kaffir Boy by Mark Mathabane
32. Blubber by Judy Blume
33. Killing Mr. Griffin by Lois Duncan
34. Halloween ABC by Eve Merriam
35. We All Fall Down by Robert Cormier
36. Final Exit by Derek Humphry
37. The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
38. Julie of the Wolves by Jean Craighead George
39. The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
40. What's Happening to my Body? Book for Girls: A Growing-Up Guide for Parents & Daughters by Lynda Madaras
41. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
42. Beloved by Toni Morrison
43. The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
44. The Pigman by Paul Zindel
45. Bumps in the Night by Harry Allard
46. Deenie by Judy Blume
47. Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes
48. Annie on my Mind by Nancy Garden
49. The Boy Who Lost His Face by Louis Sachar
50. Cross Your Fingers, Spit in Your Hat by Alvin Schwartz
51. A Light in the Attic by Shel Silverstein
52. Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
53. Sleeping Beauty Trilogy by A.N. Roquelaure (Anne Rice)
54. Asking About Sex and Growing Up by Joanna Cole
55. Cujo by Stephen King
56. James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl
57. The Anarchist Cookbook by William Powell
58. Boys and Sex by Wardell Pomeroy
59. Ordinary People by Judith Guest
60. American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis
61. What's Happening to my Body? Book for Boys: A Growing-Up Guide for Parents & Sons by Lynda Madaras
62. Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret by Judy Blume
63. Crazy Lady by Jane Conly
64. Athletic Shorts by Chris Crutcher
65. Fade by Robert Cormier
66. Guess What? by Mem Fox
67. The House of Spirits by Isabel Allende
68. The Face on the Milk Carton by Caroline Cooney
69. Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut
70. Lord of the Flies by William Golding
71. Native Son by Richard Wright
72. Women on Top: How Real Life Has Changed Women's Fantasies by Nancy Friday
73. Curses, Hexes and Spells by Daniel Cohen
74. Jack by A.M. Homes
75. Bless Me, Ultima by Rudolfo A. Anaya
76. Where Did I Come From? by Peter Mayle
77. Carrie by Stephen King
78. Tiger Eyes by Judy Blume
79. On My Honor by Marion Dane Bauer
80. Arizona Kid by Ron Koertge
81. Family Secrets by Norma Klein
82. Mommy Laid An Egg by Babette Cole
83. The Dead Zone by Stephen King
84. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain
85. Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison
86. Always Running by Luis Rodriguez
87. Private Parts by Howard Stern
88. Where's Waldo? by Martin Hanford
89. Summer of My German Soldier by Bette Greene
90. Little Black Sambo by Helen Bannerman
91. Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
92. Running Loose by Chris Crutcher
93. Sex Education by Jenny Davis
94. The Drowning of Stephen Jones by Bette Greene
95. Girls and Sex by Wardell Pomeroy
96. How to Eat Fried Worms by Thomas Rockwell
97. View from the Cherry Tree by Willo Davis Roberts
98. The Headless Cupid by Zilpha Keatley Snyder
99. The Terrorist by Caroline Cooney
100. Jump Ship to Freedom by James Lincoln Collier and Christopher Collier

Culture and Cash.

2008-09-27T19:14:00.000-07:00

So, my dear son and I took advantage of free museum day today. We chose the local flight museum to go and have some fun. I tried my darndest to take pictures, but my camera wouldn't cooperate. I ended up with two photos on my camera phone. Ugh! We had a great time though. I will definitely add this event to our family calendar and see if it comes around again next year. Hopefully some of you had a chance to get out and enjoy some FREE culture.

Also, I wanted to let anyone who took advantage of the FREE gas promotion that Chevron had awhile ago know...I actually received my gas gift card today!

Whoo hoo! I love going to the mail and having goodies be there. Bills are no fun as we all know. Hopefully if you got in on the promotion, you will receive yours soon too.

Another cool FREE thing to do on Saturday 9/27!

2008-09-25T18:06:00.000-07:00

I love the internet...

There are so many great things I learn about that I otherwise would never have known. Take for example, this Saturday is Museum Day and you can get FREE admission to a museum in your area. Here's the link with all the details!

Hubby happens to work on Saturday so that leaves DS and myself at home with nothing to do. Guess where we're going this weekend. :)

Hopefully some of you might be able to enjoy the culture in your area as well.

ENJOY!!

Cheap Eats!

2008-09-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

I just learned about a great website this morning!

Check it out...Restaurant.com sells reduced price gift certificates for local restaurants in your area. You print them right from your computer.

The best part is, if you use the code FALL you will get to take an additional 60% off their already great price. I just bought my BIL and his girlfriend some gift certificates for Christmas and only paid $4.80 for $40 in gift certificates!

Great gift ideas and inexpensive too!

Oh, and if you are a Upromise member you can link to them from Upromise to earn a bit in your child's college savings plan too!

Double the bennies! Whoo Hoo!

We have to talk!

2008-09-25T10:51:00.000-07:00

Last night Hubby got home from work and DS sits down in the living room with him. He plops his little 4 year old body in the chair and says. "We have to talk." Here's how the conversation goes.

DS: We have to talk.

Hubby: Ok, about what?

DS: About Blue. (Blue is the name of a dumptruck at Hubby's work which DS has decided is HIS and no one is to drive it...his exact thoughts on the subject are as follows: Blue is to sit at the work yard as a decoration until DS is old enough to drive it himself.)

Hubby: What about Blue?

DS: You aren't supposed to drive him! He's mine!

Hubby: But we have to, the boss said so.

DS: Well, you tell him that I said you aren't supposed to drive him, because he's MINE!

Hubby: Ok, I'll tell him that we can't drive Blue anymore because you said so.

I was in the other room, because I couldn't contain my laughter. My son was determined that this was the way it was going to be. I could tell it would be a doozy when he began with "We need to talk!".

Kid free weekend = SUCCESS!

2008-09-22T12:34:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was blissful! Hubby and I had a kid free weekend. That's right, Friday evening to Sunday afternoon without the interruption of our son. It was fantastic!

My MIL picked up our son Friday after she got off of work and took him out to dinner, the next day was on to the science center and walking all around the city. He had a great time. The highlight for him was the bus ride to the science center! He has wanted to ride a bus FOR_EV_ER!! And he finally got to.

Our weekend was much less active but none the less exciting!

Friday evening, we got Chinese take out and some movies. We ate dinner at our table and got to talk about adult things without censoring them. We finished dinner, and had no dishes...woo hoo! We then watched Baby Mama, had popcorn and snuggled on the couch. Sappy I know!

Saturday, hubby had to work so I got to spend the day doing whatever I wanted! I slept in until 9:15!! Grabbed Starbucks and headed for Kohls. I bought myself a new handbag, wallet and some jewelry. It was so quiet for me. I also headed over to Target...and got to skip looking at the cars for once! Strolled on into Cost Plus World Market and then headed to the grocery store. It was a wonderful day to myself. When hubby got home, we decided to eat the Chinese left overs and watched Drillbit Taylor and had popcorn again.

Sunday morning, I went walking (at 6:30 am) with my friend like we always do so that Hubby could sleep in too. When I got home, we went out to breakfast and then visited the new mountain bike park. I was really impressed with the area! We then headed over to MIL's to have dinner and pick up DS. He was so happy to see us, which was nice. But he did have a great time.

Looks like we all did. As much as you love your family, it's sometimes really nice to have a break. Especially when you get to spend some kid free time with your spouse. It makes you realize why it is you like the person.

Our weekend was a SUCCESS!

Who knew?? September is National Coupon Month.

2008-09-17T09:38:00.001-07:00

I just read this morning that September is National Coupon Month. I had no idea that such a "month" existed! But, I'm glad it does. Although the month is over half way finished, I will celebrate the rest of the month with a gusto!

I did a little research this morning and discovered that manufacturers offer more than $350 billion in coupons annually. That is a LOT of savings my friend!

The average coupon value is $1.25. If you just used 10 "average" coupons per shopping trip, you would save your family $12.50. That works out to be about 3.37 gallons of gas at $3.70 per gallon. If you shop 4 times per month using coupons each time, you would save enough money to fill your gas tank with 13.48 gallons of gas. That would fill my tank 80%!! And all you need to do is clip coupons!

Makes me so glad I started "couponing", as DH so affectionately refers to my new hobby.

Take a peek at your Sunday paper and see what goodies you can find.

Super Savings Saturday 9/13

2008-09-13T15:48:00.000-07:00

Another great deal at Walgreens. Last minute before the sales change tomorrow.

There were 3 transactions.

Trans 1:

5 boxes Nature Valley Granola Bars
1 bottle Crest ProHealth Mouthwash

Coupons used:
(5) .50/1 Nature Valley
$10.00 off purchase of $10 or more

Total OOP = 2.39
RR Earned: $3.50 from Nature Valley and $4.50 from Crest

Trans 2:

4 Scrubbing Bubbles Flushable cleaning wipes

Coupons used:
(2) BOGO Free Coupons Here
(1) $4.50 RR from Crest above transaction

Total OOP = $1.48
RR Earned: $5.00 from SC Johnson

Trans 3:

1 bottle Crest ProHealth Mouthwash

Coupons used:
$3.50 from Nature Valley above transaction

Total OOP = $1.39
RR Earned: $4.50 from Crest

Not too bad for a quick trip!

Gotta love free organic berries!

2008-09-07T22:30:00.000-07:00

We live really close to a HUGE blackberry bush that not a whole lot of people take advantage of. It's on public land and is free for the taking when the berries are ripe. Surprisingly to me, most of them go bad while still on the vine. This year is the first year we have taken advantage of them ourselves and we've lived nearby for 7 1/2 years. I've already picked enough for a berry crisp which was DELICIOUS! And I've frozen a full gallon sized zipper bag for later use.

Yesterday, I was in need of a bit of "me" time so I decided to gather my containers and bag and head over to the blackberry bush. I was shocked at how many were ready to be picked as well as how many were still in various stages of ripen-ness. I picked 4 more containers which worked out to be just enough for a batch of jam and some left over. YUUUMMMMY!

I came home with my haul and transformed these:

Into THIS!

I love me some home made freezer jam!! And it only took about 45 minutes. So easy, so yummy and so affordable.

Soooo tired....

2008-09-06T16:12:00.001-07:00

I have not been sleeping well lately. I think it's because hubby and I are in desperate need of new pillows. I really need to just go out and pick some up. Bbut silly me...I'm having a really hard time justifying the expense. Do you know that a good pillow can cost in the upwards of $20+? Come on! That's a bit much. I've had my share of the cheapo pillows though and they just aren't the same. I really need to just break down and buy new pillows.

Have a favorite brand? Please share. I want to be off to the land of nod quickly and stay there for a looooonnnnnngggg time.

Oh yeah, I have a four year old. That's not going to happen any time soon. :(

Well, one can dream right?

Oh, to be a four year old boy...

2008-09-01T19:15:00.000-07:00

My son recently got his hair cut. He decided that he must have a mohawk. We decided that this was OK being as he is only four. It's kinda cute. I'm not just saying that...many people have commented...really. :)

He has also decided that "he" doesn't want anyone to tell him they like his hair. I've tried to explain to him that people with exceptionally cool hair cuts often hear remarks about them. He just doesn't want anyone to look at him. So when they do, he tries to crawl into my skin. This has become quite annoying for me. Everyone else thinks it's cute that he's "shy".

If only we all could be blatantly rude and be thought of as cute.

Can it be??? FREE GAS! Try and see.

2008-08-28T18:02:00.001-07:00

The nice people Chevron are giving gift cards away for $5 - $2500 just for participating in a quick survey (3 questions...and they are EASY!). I just did mine. Hopefully it's not too good to be true.

Here's the link.

Good Luck!

Hey, you ever been "snicked"?

2008-08-26T23:07:00.000-07:00

I'm taking care of my good frirend/neighbor's daughter "P" a couple of days this week. She's 3 1/2. Having a boy myself, this opportunity is very different than what I am used to. She is much more "girly" and quite frankly, I don't really know how to handle it. But it has been fun so far!

I've learned a few things along the way.

* If I could pop out another kid somewhere between the age of 3 1/2 and 4, my son would be much less of a challenge simply because he would have someone other than me to play with.

* Girls can pee on the floor too. It's much more confusing, but it can happen.

* Boys are gentler when they play with girls and much less competitive.

* Two kids are MUCH LOUDER than one!

* And possibly my favorite..."Snicked" is going to be my word of choice for the next week at least. And I will use it whenever I can. Here's how it came to be.

We have a dog Chelbi, she's a great dog. Our neighbor girl "P" is DEATHLY afraid of dogs!

Sidenote: She was strangled by a leash with a dog attached to it, and it was attached to a pole while her "wonderful" father paid such close attention to her (she was the sophisticated age of 2 1/2). She has a right to be afraid.

My dog would never hurt her, but she is still afraid. After two days of being in my house while the dog remained in another room with the door closed "P" decided that she "wanted to pet Chelbi" I, knowing her history with dogs applaud her bravery and encourage and help her to do this. I hold my dog by the collar....I should mention that Chelbi is a Rottweiler and pushing 100 pounds. "P" is barely 35. So, anyway...I hold Chelbi and reassure "P" that Chelbi won't get her, won't bite her, etc. "P" puts out her hand and I hold it in mine and we approach Chelbi together. It probably takes 5 times of "P" pulling away and me assuring her that it's going to be OK. She finally lets Chelbi sniff her hand. Being a dog, the lick comes next. I tell "P" Chelbi likes you, see she sniffed you and licked your hand. That's like a doggie kiss. "P", very excitedly announces to everyone who will listen that she has been "snicked" by Chelbi. I love it, and will freely use it!

I should also note, that by the end of today, "P" was in the same room with Chelbi without me holding her hand and kept peeking in to say hi...all by herself! I'm very proud of her.

Has your dog "snicked" you today? Mine has. ;) Isn't she cute???

Super Savings Saturday

2008-08-22T21:07:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty excited, I finally get to participate in a Super Savings Saturday at Money Saving Mom!

I had a two really great deals this week, but only have one picture. :( Next week I will be better about photos. My hubby thinks it's super funny that I've taken to photographing groceries.

Deal one at Walgreens.

Purchase was:

4 boxes Preparation H wipes (thank goodness I know someone who can use these as I have now 9 boxes!) They were free with $4 overage after (4) $2/1 IVC and (4) printable Prep H $3/1 coupons.

2 boxes Cheerios, 1 box Honey nut Cheerios, Free plus $.01 overage with (3) $1/1 coupon and using overage from Prep H.

4 jars Ragu Spaghetti Sauce, used (2) $1/2 coupons and earned $4 RR for purchasing 6 items all together with the Skippy too.

2 jars Skippy, used $1/2 coupon.

1 package Egg Noodles, free with purchase of two Ragu sauces. :)

2 bars Yardley soap, $.69 each after WAG 7 day coupon.

I also used a RR reward for $3 off my purchase.

Total OOP was $3.70!! Plus I earned the $4 RR from the Skippy/Ragu deal AND I noticed when I got home that the cashier gave me back my $3 RR that I tried to use on the purchase, but she did ring it in as a coupon...So, WAGS paid me $3.30 to shop!

Deal TWO at Walgreens.

3 more boxes of Prep H wipes, Free plus $3 oveage after (3) $2/1 IVC and (3) $3/1 coupons

1 more box of Cheerios, Free after $1/1 and overage from Prep H.

3 more Yardley soaps $.69 each, but actually only paid $.03 because of leftover overage from Prep H.

Total OOP was $1.29 because we have to pay sales tax before coupons in our great state!

In two deals, I saved $57.93! And I only spent $4.99! WHOO HOO! Not too bad for a newbie!

Jetty Island

2008-08-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, my son and I went to a little man-made island in Everett, WA called Jetty Island. We went with my good friend/next door neighbor and her kids. Her son and my son have dubbed each other as best friends. It's really cute.

We had a great time! If you have the chance to visit, I would definitely recommend it. We went on not so nice of a day weather wise, but the kids still had a blast. They built sand castles, played in the water, hunted for shells and chased seagulls. My son decided that all seagulls are named Tom...even the girls. We even wrote the name "Tom Seagull" in the sand because he wanted them to have their name written just like him.

I will now bore you with some photos. It really was a fun time.

This was the ferry that we took over from the "mainland" to the island. There is normally a bigger boat (pictured in the background).

However, because the weather was iffy they used this one instead.

This is the island right after we docked. We walked to the other side so we didn't have to play in all that gooky stuff.

This is "Tom Seagull", one of the many.

Here are the boys working together digging a hole which later became the base of their joint effort sand castle. My son (in blue) promply squashed it upon completion.

And lastly, one of my sweet boy walking on the beach. So precious.

Hehehe, I found something fun!

2008-08-18T22:02:00.000-07:00

I found this little game courtesy of Mommie Mayhem. I thought it looked like fun. Don't be shy, play along.

Here's how it works.

*I will post a wish.

For example, I wish I was rich.

*The next poster grants my wish as a comment. "Ok, now you're rich"

BUT when you grant the wish, you have to ruin it!!

For example, you are rich but you are also Martha Stewart!

*Then you post your wish, and don't forget to check back and see how it was granted.

Isn't this fun??

I'll go first.

I wish I could go on vacation...by myself!

And...GO!

A Rose is a Rose...

2008-08-18T15:54:00.001-07:00

I've recently (within the past 2 months) personally known three people in the Seattle Metropolitan area who have named their baby girls "Something" Rose. Each one has a different first name, but all of them have the middle name Rose. We welcome Karla, Natalie and Julia Rose.

This got me thinking, what makes a name mainstream? What throws it out there when it has previously been hidden/forgotten? We all remember the Jennifer's and Jason's from the late 70's early 80's and more recently the Emma's and the Aidan, Jaden, Kaden, Braden and even Taden's (my cousin did this to their child).

But, what makes it such a desireable name? Just when you as a parent to be decide on the perfect name for your little one, you discover that 99% of the babies born of the same sex have the same name! (Ok, I might have just exaggerated a bit.) This was my big fear as my son has an older name and so far, I've not heard that many other kids with the same name. Whew! He won't be one of 5 other kids with the same name in his class.

Just my strange wonderings of the day.

But it was only a hangnail!

2008-08-13T14:38:00.000-07:00

So, I had a hangnail. I picked it off just like most of the population does. No big deal right?

WRONG!

Apparently, picking a hangnail opens you up for infection. And not just any infection at that. Infection that can spread into your blood stream and cause the little red line that the nurses were referring to as a streak that travels from the point of the infection (my right thumb) all the way up my arm almost to my elbow bend. I know...all from a friggin hangnail! It even gets better.

The doctor came in and informed me that I had come in "just in time" because if the infection would have gone into my joints, I could have lost my hand! Supposedly this is a common occurrence. I had no idea! She also said that if my white blood cells were too high (they tested me and I was fine thankfully!) that I would have to see a hand surgeon the same day and "have the infection extracted! (read: a big fat hairy needle would have been stuck into my already sore thumb and all the goop would be sucked out!) YUCK and NO THANK YOU!

Because my cell count was good, all I got was a shot of antibiotic and then they gave me 10 days of pills. I'm on day 3 of my antibiotics, the red line is gone from my arm and the infection in my thumb is almost gone too.

Who knew...a hangnail?

What a powerful little annoyance.