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Thursday Thirteen #6


13 Things in the Refrigerator

  1. Hidden Valley Ranch dressing for me.
  2. Generic Ranch dressing for my son... he goes through 2-3 bottles a month!
  3. Mt. Dew... I drink 4-6 cans a day.
  4. Water... we are all trying to drink more water.
  5. Bags of salad... inexpensive at Aldis and my son loves it.
  6. Pickles... its cheaper to buy the big 62 oz. jars so there are always pickles in the fridge.
  7. Nail polish... it lasts longer when stored in the fridge.
  8. 35mm film... photographs & colors are more vibrant and film can be used past the expiration date when stored in the fridge.
  9. Ketchup.
  10. Mustard.
  11. Chocolate, of course... don't want it to melt in this hot weather.
  12. Yogurt.
  13. Crumbs and spills.

Wordless Wednesday #18


Works for Me Wednesday #8

I love aromatherapy, the smells of the different seasons... the smell of crisp green apples in summer, the smell of falling leaves in autumn, the smell of gingerbread at Christmas, the smell of fresh dirt in spring. Some aromas calm and sooth me, other aromas energize me. There are candles and potpourri in various rooms throughout the house.

The best thing I have found to keep the aromas fresh and long-lasting is placing drops of fragrance -- aromatherapy oils, massage oils, perfume, room deodorizers linen sprays, etc. -- on the light bulbs. Spray or place a few drops of your favorite fragrance on any light bulb in any room to create a light scent when the light is turned on.

For more great tips and brilliant ideas to help you be a better person, go to Rocks in My Dryer.

Family Minute #31

Focus on the Flowers

Do you ever get discouraged, disappointed or frustrated? Do you ever feel like your circumstances are more negative than positive? Does your outlook seem more pessimistic than optimistic?

By focusing on flowers, on what is good in your life, you can "out grow" your depression. Its not easy living with depression but flowers will help brighten your life (whether for a few minutes or few a few hours). As you go through difficult times, forget about weeding out the negatives – your depression, your anxiety – instead, nurture the positive parts of your life.

Remember your family first.

Make Me Laugh Monday - Present



Come join the fun and laughter by signing Mr Linky below. Leave a link to your Make Me Laugh Monday post and not to the front page of your blog.



Thanks for partcipating.

Family Minute #30

Do you C.H.A.R.M. your children?

An old Irish saying defines charm as the ability to get someone to say “yes” before you even ask the question. So use the acronym C.H.A.R.M. to capture your child’s heart.

C – Converse. Talk regularly with your kids on topics they enjoy.
H – Have fun. Do things together that make you laugh.
A – Ask. Ask open-ended questions about their day.
R – Read. Read books together.
M – Make memories. Capture photos of your time together.
C.H.A.R.M. your children and...

Remember your family first.

Family Minute #29

Want a fun way to mix learning and Independence Day?

Give your kids a quiz. Make it fun and award a prize to the one who gets the most answers right. You can use questions like: Where was the Declaration of Independence signed? Who sewed the first American flag? And, who was the king of England during the Revolutionary War?

Do you know the answers? Check out the library or internet together to find the answers. It’s a great way to teach your kids the facts behind the fireworks.

Remember your family first.

A Tribute to the Flag


"I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
AND TO THE REPUBLIC FOR WHICH IT STANDS,
ONE NATION UNDER GOD,
INDIVISIBLE, WITH LIBERTY
AND JUSTICE FOR ALL."

I don't think I ever heard Elvis in 'better voice' than on this. Enjoy Elvis' version of America the Beautiful.

Get facts about the flag of the United States.

Read about the timeline of the flag.

Get the history and how to's to care for the flag from the United States Congress.

To Smoke or Not To Smoke

Here is timeline that shares the positive facts about the immediate effects of quitting smoking:

In 20 minutes your blood pressure will drop back down to normal.
In 8 hours the carbon monoxide (a toxic gas) levels in your blood stream will drop by half and oxygen levels will return to normal.
In 48 hours your chance of having a heart attack will have decreased.
In 48 hours all nicotine will have left your body.
In 48 hours sense of taste and smell will return to a normal level.
In 72 hours your bronchial tubes will relax.
In 72 hours your energy levels will increase.
In 2 weeks your circulation will increase and it will continue to improve for the next 10 weeks.
In 3 to 9 months coughs, wheezing, and breathing problems will dissipate as your lung capacity improves by 10%.
In 1 year your risk of having a heart attack will have dropped by half.
In 5 years your risk of having a stroke returns to that of a non-smoker.
In 10 years your risk of lung cancer will have returned to that of a non-smoker.
In 15 years your risk of heart attack will have returned to that of a non-smoker.

Does this encourage you to not smoke?

Around the Blogosphere #9


Check out the beautiful scenery of the United States of America at My Beautiful America. This site offers an awesome pictorial tour around the country comprising all 50 states.

Thursday Thirteen #5


13 People I am Thankful For

In no particular order...

  1. For my son, Cameron, for his sweetness that reminds me that he can overcome all obstacles.
  2. For my daughter, Cassandra, for her sassiness that reminds me that she has a mind of her own and is very independent.
  3. For Jessica, a new friend, Cameron's former TSS, for her generosity and joy of life. She is a younger version of me... sassy and quirky and all.
  4. For Sandy, a long-time friend and confidante for being my cheerleader and advice giver.
  5. For Champ, my Chihuahua, who loves me no matter what.
  6. For Teresa, a long-time friend, for her help and support in so many aspects of my life and for the many things we have in common.
  7. For Phyllis, a new online friend, for her help and kindness and for the many things we have in common.
  8. For the WrapAround Team that provides services for my son.
  9. For the Big Brothers Big Sisters (program) of Butler County for providing fun and support for my daughter.
  10. For Art, for making me feel sexy even when I'm not.
  11. For Dave, for constantly checking on me and for mowing my grass.
  12. For the creator of the Internet, so I can sit here and write such a list.
  13. Most of all, for God, for everything he has given me.

Make Me Laugh Monday - Gas Prices


If you want to join in the fun and laughter, please sign Mr. Linky below. Please leave a link to your Make Me Laugh Monday post and not to the front page of your blog so we can read your post more easily.



Thanks to Jen, at Absolutely Bananas, for passing the hosting wand to me and thanks to each of you for participating. Don't forget to visit each other.

Unconscious Mutterings #2

I say ... and you think ... ?

Loneliness :: Being lonely sucks!
Traffic :: I'm glad I don't have to drive daily in the Pittsburgh traffic jam.
Chaos :: Chaos reigns (with children in the home).
Burp :: Why do men and children think this is funny?
500 :: Indianapolis 500.
Movie :: I want to see the movie "Wanted."
Coma :: Sad.
Bark :: I miss Champ's barking.
Stare :: Don't stare at me.
Angelina :: Angelina Jolie. (Does everyone have this same muttering?)

To see the fun ramblings of others &/or to participate in some mutterings of your own, go to Luna Nina.

Around the Blogosphere

Sail Away to a Good Night’s Sleep Contest
and Win a Cruise!
By Metropolitan Mama

Picture this... you and one other person on an all-expenses-paid three-night, four-day cruise to the balmy and beautiful Caribbean. Thanks to Protect-A-Bed.

Great food,
live entertainment,
a movie theater,
dancing,
special interest classes,
golden sands,
and glowing sunshine
-- the cruise experience awaits you.

If you’re sitting there, reading, and thinking, “Protect-A-Who?” – then, I have an introduction to make. Protect-A-Bed, meet you. You, meet Protect-A-Bed, “inventors of the very first ultra thin mattress protector, available in all bed sizes including cribs for babies.”

Protect-A-Bed mattress covers protect your mattress from poop, pee, vomit, apple juice, just about anything – and, by doing so, bring you incredible peace of mind and a better night’s sleep.


For a mother-friendly review, check out what Metropolitan Mama has to say.

Back to the cruise, here’s how to enter:
1. For Bloggers: Write a unique post about this contest (and link to the Protect-A-Bed website and this post) or write about your experience using Protect-A-Bed products (and link to the Protect-A-Bed website and this post).
2. Fill out the “Sail Away to a Good Night’s Sleep” entry form by clicking on heading on over to Metropolitan Mama. All entries must be received between June 1st, 2008 and September 1st, 2008.

The Grand Prize winner will receive an all-expenses-paid trip for two to a three-night, four-day cruise to the Caribbean (including airfare) OR the winner may opt to receive a $1,000 cash prize.


Additionally, there will be a weekly winner every week of the promotion and a monthly winner every month of the promotion. Whoo hoo!

Go to Metropolitan Mama for more details and entry forms.

If you have questions, feel free to email Stephanie at stephanie@metropolitanmama.net.

Friday's Feast #3



Appetizer
What is the weather like today where you live?
Hot, humid, thunderstorms.

Soup
On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how career-minded are you?
5. I work from home but it is not a priority; my family is my priority.

Salad
What type of window coverings do you have in your home? Blinds, curtains, shutters, etc.?
I have blinds and curtains.

Main Course
Name something that instantly cheers you up.
Reading, my children's smiles.

Dessert
How many times do you hit the snooze button on a typical morning?
I don't hit the snooze button. Children tend to not let you do that. Lol.

What Animal Are You?


What animal are you?


What animal are you?


Thursday Thirteen #4


13 Unusual Things About Me
  1. I have webbed toes.
  2. When I am tired &/or sick I suck my thumb.
  3. I often feel lonely even when there are others in the room.
  4. I read every night before I go to sleep.
  5. I am a Christmas fanatic... the last two years I had over 30 fully decorated trees.
  6. I am ambidextrous.
  7. I am a single mother.
  8. I suffer from chronic pain... fibromyalgia, polyneuropathy, and more.
  9. I love snail mail... who doesn't love an unexpected card or RAK?
  10. I hate thunderstorms.
  11. I often crave salt.
  12. I often crave chocolate.
  13. I know I am an unusual person but God made me this way so I must be all right.

Works for Me Wednesday #7


I'm a very organized person and heavily depend on calendars.

Many of us love the switch to paperless offices so I will share several online calendars that allow you to maintain an ultra-organized system.

My Favorite Calendar Picks:

Famundo for Families - http://www.famundo.com/
WhichTime - http://www.whichtime.com/
Google Calendar - http://www.google.com/
Universal Calendar - http://www.universalvillage.net/

All four online version offer many amenities, such as customizable family home page and sizes to fit your screen.

Tips for Using Online Calendars:

  • Set the calendar to alert you to upcoming events.
  • Look for repeat features that let you input the data only once.
  • Opt for a calendar with comprehensive holiday listings -- from Groundhog Day to Grandparents Day -- so you won't have to type them in yourself.
  • Opt for a calendar that can send text message reminders &/or email reminders.
  • Opt for a calendar that other family members can have access to so they can compare and add events.

For more great tips and ideas, head on over to Rocks in My Dryer.

Thursday Thirteen #3


13 Things I Do On The Computer On A Daily Basis

  1. Read my personal emails.
  2. Reply to my personal emails.
  3. Read my group's emails.
  4. Reply to my group's emails.
  5. Read the comments for all three of my blogs.
  6. Moderate the comments for all three of my blogs.
  7. Listen to my playlists.
  8. Read the blog entries for my favorite blogs.
  9. Comment on the blog entries of my favorite blogs.
  10. Write, at least, one blog entry for, at least, one of my blogs.
  11. Go blog hopping.
  12. Get Christmas ideas for my Christmas blog.
  13. Get scrapbooking ideas for my scrapbooking blog.

Priceless Receipt


Computer Tips #12 - r u tuned out?

Gone are the days when kids were safe just as long as they were at home and under your nose. Today's children can access the world from a growing number of portable gadgets, and depending on what they do with this ability, could potentially invite a world of danger into their lives.

Text Messaging and Email Abbreviations

121 - one to one
420 - code for buying or smoking marijuana
ADN - any day now
AFAIK - as far as I know
AFK - away from keyboard
A/S/L - age, sex, location (often asked by predators)
B4 - before
B4N - bye for now
BAK - back at the keyboard
BF - boyfriend
BFN - bye for now
BG - big grin
BRB - be right back
BTA - but then again
BTW - by the way
BWTG - big way to go
CID - crying in disgrace
CNP - continued (in my) next post
CP - chat post
CU - see you
CUL - see you later
CYL - see you later
CYO - see you online
DBAU - doing business as usual
DD - dear or darling daughter
DF - dear or darling friend
DH - dear or darling husband
DS - dear or darling son
FUD - fear, uncertainty, and doubt
FWIW - for what it's worth
FYI - for your information
G2G - got to go
G - grin
GA - go ahead
GAL - get a life
GBU - God bless you
GF - girlfriend
GFN - gone for now that
GMBO - giggling my butt off
GMTA - great minds think alike
GTG - got to go
GTRM - going to read mail
HAGN - have a good night
HAND - have a nice day
HDOP - help delete online predators
HHIS - hanging head in shame
HTH - hope this helps
IAC - in any case
IAE - in any event
IANAL - I am not a lawyer (but)
IC - I see
IDK - I don't know
IMHO - in my humble opinion or in my honest opinion
IMNSHO - in my not so humble opinion
IMO - in my opinion
IMPE - in my personal opinion
IOW - in other words
IPN - I’m posting naked
IRL - in real life
ISP - Internet service provider
JK - just kidding
JM2C - just my two cents
KWIM - know what I mean?
L8R - later
LD - later, dude
LDR - long distance relationship
LLTA - lots and lots of thunderous applause
LMIRL - let's meet in real life
LMBO - laughing my butt off
LMSO - laughing my socks off
LOL - laughing out loud
LTR - long term relationship or later
LULAB - love you like a brother
LULAS - love you like a sister
LYLAS - love you like a sister
M/F - male or female
MOS - mother over shoulder
NP - no problem
OLL - online love
OTOH - on the other hand
OTP - on the phone
P911 - parent alert
PAW - parents are watching
POS - parents over shoulder
RAK - random act of kindness
RENTS - parents
ROFLMBO - rolling on floor laughing my butt off
RPG - role playing games
SHID - slaps head in disgust
SO - significant other
SOMY - sick of me yet?
SOT - short of time
SUP - what's up?
SYS - see you soon
THX - thanks
TIA - thanks in advance
TTYL - talk to you later
TTYS - talk to you soon
VBG - very big grin
WB - welcome back
W/E - whatever
WFM - works for me
WIBNI - wouldn't it be nice if
WTGP - want to go private?
WTG - way to go
YM - young man
YW - you’re welcome
YVW - you're very welcome
ZZZ - tired or bored

For more email and text messaging abbreviations, go to Logged On and Tuned Out.

Thought of the Day - 6/18/08

Thanks, Dave, for sharing this profound thought.

Sometimes it's the quietest moment in your day that carries the biggest impact; you won't need thunder and lightning to tell you that you've come upon a huge revelation. Changes you want to make might not be the changes you need to make -- so be open-minded about the conclusions you come to. These conclusions might not be what you expected or even what you wanted, but they will be the best answer. Don't hesitate to start down this new path. As soon as you do, you will know it's the right way.

Wordless Wednesday #16







To see more participants in the Wordless Wednesday go to 5 Minutes for Mom &/or Wordless Wednesday.

Works for Me Wednesday #6

If you been a regular reader of my Works for Me Wednesday posts here at All Things Cherished, you know I love it when a product has more than once use.

Again, this week we have a product that is multi-talented.

Petroleum Jelly

  • Protect your furniture. Dab water marks with petroleum jelly and let sit for 24 hours. Wipe off excess and polish furniture as usual.
  • Protect your light bulbs. Rub a little petroleum jelly on the threads of the bulb before you screw it in (especially for outside lights where dirt and dust can cause the bulbs to stick) and it wont stick again.
  • Protect your nails. Dab petroleum jelly on the skin around nails to prevent hangnails and to soften cuticles.
  • Protect your pet. Rub a little petroleum jelly on your cat's or dog's cracked paw to soothe the discomfort.
  • Protect your hair. In a pinch, rub petroleum jelly on the roots of the hair (instead of hair grease) to make braids, cornrows, etc., neater.
  • Protect your lips. Rub a little petroleum jelly on the lips to prevent chapped lips.
  • Protect your tools. Rub a little petroleum jelly on your gardening tools before storing to prevent rust.

For more tips and ideas on what works for others, check out Rocks In My Dryer.

Make Me Laugh Monday - Miscommunication

A co-worker got a pen stuck inside the office printer. He started to try and remove the pen, but I told him we don't have time for that now since we were late for a meeting. I told him to just put a note on the printer telling people not to use it and then report it to the Help Desk. So he grabbed a piece of paper and scribbled a note on it. I left before he finished the note.

About 20 minutes later, a technician comes in laughing.

This is what the technician found. Sometimes things don't always come out the way you want them to...

Friday's Feast #2


Appetizer
Do you consider yourself to be an optimist or a pessimist?
When alone after the children are tucked in bed, a pessimist. Overall, I'm a "half-full glass" kind of gal.

Soup
What is your favorite color of ink to write with?
Black.

Salad
How often do you get a manicure or pedicure? Do you do them yourself or go to a salon and pay for them?
I don't have the money in my tight budget to get a manicure or pedicure.

Main Course
Have you ever won anything online? If so, what was it?
Yes, I recently (within the past month) won scrapbook paper from Haute Artist.

Dessert
In which room in your house do you keep your home computer?
The computer sits in the office/craft studio.

For more fun answers and to visit other participants, go to Friday's Feast.

All About Harry Potter

Articles about Movies, Harry, and More

Harry Potter Prequel Sells for $52,000

Wikipedia Definition of Harry Potter

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Rowling and Radcliffe Make Forbes Celebrity List for 2008

HPANA (Harry Potter Automatic News Aggregator)

Hogwarts Extreme


Games and Other Harry Potter Fun

Harry Potter - The Official Site

J.K. Rowling Official Site

MuggleNet - The ultimate Harry Potter fan site.

Harry Potter Lexicon

The Leaky Cauldron

Harry Potter Realm of Wizardry


(Click on the phrases/titles to go to the different sites.)

Family Minute #28

What is one of your most important assets?

It’s your attitude! Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it. So how can we change a bad attitude? First, look for the positive. Abraham Lincoln said, "If you look for the bad in mankind expecting to find it, you surely will." Second, refuse to be a victim. Self-pity is a luxury no one can afford. Third, give up grudges. They only clog the veins of a positive attitude. Finally, changing an attitude won’t occur overnight so be patient and don’t give up.

Remember your family first.

Thursday Thirteen #2



13 Things I Say On A Daily Basis
  1. I love you. (To my two children.)
  2. Want a belly rub? (To Champ, my Chihuahua.)
  3. Is the computer working? (I NEED my computer/Internet time.)
  4. Sna-a-ap. (Someone, somewhere will say something they shouldn't.)
  5. Go potty. (To Champ.)
  6. Thank you, God, for another day. (After I wake in the morning.)
  7. Thank you, God, for getting me through another day. (As I lay my head down to sleep at night.)
  8. Did you take your pills? (My children are both on life-saving medication.)
  9. Is it hot in here? (Having hot flashes is not fun.)
  10. Turn it up. (I love my music loud.)
  11. Stop fighting... stop bickering... stop! (To my children as they get into fight #1xx.)
  12. Why me? (I ask myself each day as I experience another day as a single mother to two special needs kids, 1 gifted, 1 w/ mental health issues.)
  13. Hello. (As I answer the phone.)

Works for Me Wednesday #5


Did you know that bottle of hydrogen peroxide, the familiar brown bottle, has lots of uses besides cleaning cuts and boo-boos?

I love it when a product has more than one use.

  • Put hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle to clean and sanitize shower tiles.
  • Put hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle to clean and sanitize cutting boards.
  • Use hydrogen peroxide as a mild bleach to brighten clothes in the laundry.
  • Use hydrogen peroxide as a mild bleach to remove stains on carpets and grout. (Do a spot test first; it may bleach color.)
  • Use hydrogen peroxide to clean vegetables and fruits. Soak vegetables and fruits in a sinkful of cold water and 1/4 cup peroxide for just a few minutes. Then swish and rinse.
  • Use hydrogen peroxide to help provide strong growth for your plants. Add a few drops of peroxide to the water then water plants as usual.

For more great tips and ideas, check out Rocks in My Dryer.

Wordless Wednesday #15


Thought of the Day - 6/9/08

As we grow up, we learn that even the one person that wasn't supposed to ever let you down probably will. You will have your heart broken probably more than once and it's harder every time. You'll break hearts too, so remember how it felt when yours was broken. You'll fight with your best friend. You'll blame a new love for things an old one did. You'll cry because time is passing too fast, and you'll eventually lose someone you love.

So take pictures, pictures and more pictures,
laugh and laugh and laugh out loud, and
love like you've never been hurt because every sixty seconds you spend upset is a minute of happiness you'll never get back.

Me Me Me Meme

My friend, Phyllis, did not tag me but she did ask me to do this fun meme.

I am not tagging anyone, but if you decide to play please leave me a comment letting me know you are participating, so I can come and visit you to learn more about you.

Two Names You Go By:
1. Mommy.
2. Darling; my friend, Art, has a hard time pronouncing my first name (and its not a difficult name) so he calls me darling with a fun twang to it.

Two Things You Are Wearing Right Now:
1. Shirt.
2. Shorts.

Two Of Your Favorite Things:
1. My children.
2. The computer.

Two Things You Want Very Badly At The Moment:
1. Central air conditioning.
2. A life partner/someone to love me and accept me.

Two Favorite Pets You Have Or Had:
1. Princess and Willie, American Cocker Spaniels.
2. Champ, Chihuahua.

Two Things You Did Last Night:
1. Watched TV.
2. Ate a snack.

Two Things You Ate Last Night:
1. Turkey, mashed potatoes, and corn for dinner.
2. Honey mustard Pringles potato chips for snack.

Two People You Last Talked To:
1. Teresa.
2. Emergency room staff.

Two Things You Are Doing Tomorrow:
1. Blogging.
2. Reading.

Two of Farthest Trips Taken In The Last 5 Years:
1. n/a
2. n/a

Two Favorite Holidays:
1. Christmas.
2. Easter.

Two Favorite Beverages:
1. Mountain Dew.
2. Aquafina Flavor Splash water.

Make Me Laugh Monday - Wrong Message


Unconscious Mutterings - My First

She says... and you think...

Rambling :: thoughts.
Magnetic :: letters.
Again! :: again and again.
Acoustic :: guitar.
Mahogany :: furniture.
Promises :: broken.
Ill fitting :: clothes.
Sublime :: what is?
Poop :: glad my children are out of diapers.
Disoriented :: transient global amnesia (not a good thing to be diagnosed with).

To participate or to read the mutterings of others, check out Unconscious Mutterings.

A Giveaway

Its always fun to enter a giveaway... especially when its jewelry... especially when its made by a stay at home mother.

Go to MJennings Designs and enter yourself.

Computer Tips #11 - Vista Tips - Search Elsewhere

Internet Explorer's default search engine is MSN.com. Boo! Click the drop-down menu next to IE's magnifying-glass icon and select "Find More Providers…" Adding Amazon, eBay, and MTV make searching much more fun. There is a list of over 20 providers to choose from. Click on the name of the search company you wish to add, and a bonus -- you can add as many companies as you like.

Computer Tips #10 - Vista Tips - Extend Activation

Are you testing out Vista's features and compatibility but not sure if you want to go ahead and activate it? Microsoft understands. It has built a software licensing manager into the new OS that lets you extend the activation period. At the Start menu's search bar, type slmgr-rearm to get another 30 days. You can do this a maximum of three times before Microsoft blocks further extension periods. Once you're locked out, that's it.

Thought of the Day - 6/7/08

The word fellowship has lost most of its biblical meaning. Fellowship now usually refers to casual conversation, socializing, food, and fun. Real fellowship is experiencing life together.

Share each others troubles and problems and in this way obey the law of Christ.
Galatians 6:2 NLT

Friday's Feast - My First


Appetizer
When you drink soda/pop/coke, do you prefer to drink it from the bottle, a can, or after pouring it into a cup?
I usually rinse of the Mt. Dew can and drink straight from the can. Though, many times I prefer a cup.

Soup
What television show are you willing to stay up late to watch?
I don't watch late night TV... nothing good on after prime time.

Salad
Name one person, place, or thing you think of as brilliant.
Blogging on the Internet is brilliant. Where else can you connect with total strangers and feel a bond?!

Main Course
Would you be willing to work 4 10-hour days instead of 5 8-hour days in order to save gas?
As a single mother and business owner of two companies, I work well over 10 hour days every day.

Dessert
If you were a superhero, what would you call yourself?
SuperMom, of course.

To see all the other participant's feasts, go to Friday's Feast.


Thursday Thirteen - My First



13 Things I Don't Like About Summer
  1. I don't like the really hot weather.
  2. I don't like the humidity.
  3. I don't like the lack of central air conditioning in the house.
  4. I don't like the lack of activities available for school-age children in the community.
  5. I don't like the effect the humidity (and hot weather) have on my daughter's asthma.
  6. I don't like the insects that are suddenly in abundance.
  7. I don't like the lack of air conditioning in the car.
  8. I don't like the fact that we still need to follow the "school" schedule because of the structure my son needs to survive.
  9. I don't like the fact that my son doesn't sleep in... ever.
  10. I don't like the constant need for ice cream and lack of money to buy this special treat often.
  11. I don't like that school is out. (I do believe in year round schooling, especially for special needs children.)
  12. I don't like that my children have to attend all my appointments, doctor visits, etc., with me throughout the summer due to lack of a babysitter.
  13. I don't like that my first list for Thursday Thirteen sounds so negative.

Thankful Thursday #11

This week I am thankful for...

  • The kindness, generosity of spirit, and helpfulness of my daughter's first grade teacher. (Tomorrow is the last day of school.)
  • The kindhearted comments that so many of you graciously leave me each week when reading my Thankful Thursday list.
  • The friends, online, who continually help me run my groups, sites, and forums. You all are such an important part of my life.
  • The overwhelming friendship, thoughtfulness, and compassion of my son's TSS (Therapeutic Support Staff). (Unfortunately, for the Litz family, the TSS has moved forward in her career so she is no longer with us and the loss is greatly felt.)

For more graciousness, gratefulness, and gentleness, check out the home of the Thankful Thursday meme.

Family Minute #27

How much reading will your kids do this summer?

If you start planning now, they might do more page-turning than you expect. First, find out if they have any required school reading. If they do, help them break it down so they won’t have to read four books the week before classes start. After you’ve taken care of required reading, find some books that will appeal to your children – because we moms know that the more they like a book – the more likely they are to read it.

There are lots of resources (online, public library, school library, teachers) to help you find just the right books for each of your children.

Have a great summer of reading!

Remember your family first.

Tuesday Toot #2

Not often as a mom -- especially a single mom -- do I "toot my own horn" so joining in the Tuesday Toot is a good thing to do for my self-esteem (or rather lack of self-esteem). I am so amazed at all the gracious and kind comments I received last week during my first Tuesday Toot. Thanks, ladies.

This week's toots:

  • I was able to help my friend, Teresa, start a blog of her own, 8 Things About Me.
  • I finished the school year where I volunteered most every week in the first grade classroom helping with the AR (Accelerated Reading) quizzes and classes.
  • I was able to advocate on behalf of my son and his special needs.

The List

I know I probably should have outgrown this by now, but somehow I'm always surprised when someone -- or something -- lets me down. I expect a certain something -- call it quality -- from the things and the people that surround me, which in itself is not such a bad trait. But all too often is the surprising disappointment that comes when something -- or someone -- fails you.

The upside is that you start to develop The List. That is, the list of people and things that don't ever disappoint. There is something comforting about the old faithfuls on The List.

Here, in no particular order, is a partial sampling of my list.

  • Extra Cool Watermelon gum... lasts a long time.
  • Bath & Body Works anti-bacterial foaming hand soap in yummy scents, such as Cucumber Melon and Black Raspberry Vanilla.
  • 3 Musketeers Mint candy bar... chocolate is a soothing friend to a single mother.
  • Mt. Dew... ice-cold, refreshing.
  • My mother rings... I have a ring for each child that is personalized with their name, birthstone, and birth date. Some of my most treasured items! I never take them off. It is a talisman, a security blanket, a coat of armor.
  • My friend Sandy... discreet confidante, excellent cook, generous friend, wonderful babysitter.
  • Washing machine... after 5 floods in 8 weeks, 3 years later its still running strong... also means I'm alive and my children are alive to dirty those clothes every day.
  • My Champ, 8 month young Chihuahua... loves me no matter what.

What's on your list?



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What Are You Going to Be Famous For?

You will be famous for writing a national bestseller





You are very observant and tend to be the wallflower at parties. You are intuitive and know just how to communicate everything that you are feeling to those around you.


Take this quiz at QuizGalaxy.com

What's Your Blogging Personality?

Your Blogging Type Is Thoughtful and Considerate
You're a well liked, though underrated, blogger.
You have a heart of gold, and are likely to blog for a cause.
You're a peaceful blogger - no drama for you!
A good listener and friend, you tend to leave thoughtful comments for others.

Morning Mug Meme

Phyllis tagged me for this meme several weeks ago, but life has been chaotic and then I just plain forgot. Shame on me. But, hooray, I finally got around to hooking up the camera (had to rent new computer and drivers had to be updated and yada yada yada) and published my version of Lois' Mug Meme today.

According to Phyllis's post, there is a new meme in Blogland. Of course, she just HAD to do... and, of course, she HAD to tag me. :)

Rules:

Most folks drink some sort of a morning beverage, be it coffee or tea, and most likely from a mug.

1. Please share a photo of your favorite mug(s).

2. Tell a story about how it became your favorite. Include what you drink with this mug.

3. Be sure to link to Lois and the person who tagged you for this meme.

4. Leave a comment for Lois so she can follow her meme.

My additional rule:

Leave a comment here so I know you are participating and you will get a return visit from me.

My favorite mug is a mug my friend, Teresa, bought for me as a Christmas gift several years ago. It is a bigger mug which I love and it has a logo on it that represents all the different countries of all the members that belong to my group, 12 Months of Christmas. Several years ago the group had a logo contest and this is the logo that won. For other products with this same logo, go to CafePress.



However, I rarely drink tea and I don't drink coffee so my favorite mug is a can... a can of Mt. Dew.


If you are reading this, consider yourself MUGGED. (Sorry, I just couldn't resist the chance at a great pun!)

35 Things About Me

Angie is hosting 46 Things about Me at The Blog of Me. I love her The Book of Me and read her blog regularly.

35 Things About Me

1. Do you like blue cheese?
No.

2. Have you ever smoked heroin?
No.

3. Do you own a gun?
Yes, a glue gun and a staple gun, and they're both loaded.

4. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments?
Depends on the kind of doctor, I guess, but generally, no.

5. What do you think of hot dogs?
The kids love them. And its an easy dinner.

6. What is your favorite Christmas movie?
Santa Clause, Santa Clause 2, and Santa Clause 3.

7. What do you prefer to drink in the morning?
Mt. Dew or orange juice or apple juice.

8. Can you do push ups?
Yes, 1-2. Sad, I know.

9. What is your age?
About 10 years older than I feel/think, but really 40 until July.

10. What's your favorite piece of jewelry?
My mother's rings. I have one for each child.

11. What's your favorite hobby?
Scrapbooking, for the most part, but also blogging.

12. Who is your favorite actor?
John Travolta and Nicholas Cage.

13. Do you have ADD?
Yes!

14. What's one trait you hate about yourself?
Low self-esteem and constantly feeling lonely.

15. Middle name?
Storm

16. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment.
Its hot.
Too much housework to do.
How will I pay my bills this month?

17. Name 3 things you bought yesterday or today.
Nothing, nothing, and nothing.

18. Name 3 drinks you regularly drink.
Mt. Dew, Aquafina fruit flavored water, Mt. Dew.

19. Your current worry?
Money.

20. Your favorite place to be?
Snuggling with my kids because they are already "getting to big" to let mommy cuddle with them.

21. How did you bring in the New Year?
Watching TV, reminiscing, feeling sorry for myself, and reading a book.

22. Do you own slippers?
Yes, I do. My son picked out a pink pair with dog paw prints all over them to remind me about my past dogs. Isn't he sweet?

23. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets?
No.

24. Can you whistle?
Yes, but not so you could tell what tune I'm whistling. Nor am I very loud.

25. What is your favorite color?
Navy blue, all shade of blues (except baby powder blue).

26. What songs do you sing in the shower?
I don't.

27. Favorite girl's name?
Cassandra.

28. Favorite boy's name?
Cameron.

29. What is in your pocket right now?
Nothing.

30. How many TVs do you have in your house?
Four.

31. How many dogs do you have?
Champ (Chihuahua).

32. Does someone have a crush on you?
No.

33. What is your favorite book?
Too many to list.

34. Where were you born?
Altoona, PA.

35. What is your favorite candy?
Chocolate.


Some of the questions I deleted because they were not relevant to me.

Feel free to answer these questions on your own blog and sign Mr. Linky so we can all enjoy reading your answers.

Family Minute #26

Get a Head Start on Next Year

Yes, this school year is winding down – but your child will be back in the classroom before you know it. Before the school year ends, see if you can get your child’s teacher to answer a few questions, so you can help your child prepare for next year over the summer. Ask these questions:

1. What might be most challenging for my child next year?
2. What skill should my child try to improve over the summer?
3. How much reading, and at what level, should my child attempt over the summer?

Taking time during summer break to prepare for the school year ahead can give your child a head-start on success.

Make Me Laugh Monday - Maxine Talks about Men


Pizza Pasta Casserole

2 lbs. ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
2 jars (28 oz each)
spaghetti sauce
1 package (16 oz) spiral pasta, cooked and drained
4 cups (16 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
8 oz sliced pepperoni

In a large skillet, cook beef and onion until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in spaghetti sauce and pasta. Transfer to two greased 9 x 13 baking dishes. Sprinkle with cheese. Arrange pepperoni over the top. Cover and freeze one casserole for up to 3 months. Bake the second casserole, uncovered, at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.To use the frozen casserole, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Bake at 350° for 35-40 minutes or until heated through.

Thought of the Day - 5/29/08

Today holds such promise & possibility...
Today holds such hope...
Today can be anything you want to create for it...
Today can hold great power...
Today can be the start of something big...
Today can change your life...

 
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