"I need you."
We all need to hear those words and need to feel that we are needed. Don't be afraid to ask for help... you will feel better and the person helping will feel better too.
When someone needs help with something and they ask for help, I am so grateful. Aren't you?
Go to http://home.comcast.net/~nw-fla/tribute_flag_B_thompson.htm to hear Elvis Presley sing "America, the Beautiful." As an American and as a veteran, this page created by Bob Thompson truly touches my heart.
Do you?
This song is performed by Diamond Rio. Sadly, major radio stations won't play This song because it is considered politically incorrect. Consequently, the song was never released to the public. If this song speaks to your heart, share it with friends and loved ones. Then let us cease being the silent majority and join together -- not as a particular political party, but as Americans!
Check out the song In God We Still Trust by following this link: http://gunbarrelcityradio.com:80/InGodWeStillTrust.wmv.
The Pareto Principle
Discovered in 1906 by the Italian economist, Alfredo Pareto, this business principle says that 80% of your results will come from 20% of your activities. Also called the 80/20 rule, this principle applies to raising children too. Of all the things that sap your time and energy each day, maybe only 20% really matters... so focus on those things. Instead of watching TV, get some exercise with your child. Instead of obsessively cleaning the house, sit with your child and talk about their day. Instead of checking your emails, throw the ball with your child.
Remember, your family first.
Want to increase your children’s memory?
Then enroll them in music lessons. That's right. According to a new study, children who learn a musical instrument fare better in memory recall than children with no musical training. In fact, a child's brain wiring starts to change after taking music lessons for just one year. You may even find that your musical children improve in literacy, math and general IQ level. So look for a music teacher or community music program in your area. And don't worry whether your children have natural talent or not -- they don't have to be a Beethoven to reap the benefits of learning music.
Remember, your family first.
Have you heard of the 10 Commitments of Great Parents? Just like the 10 Commandments, these 10 things can make a positive difference in the lives of your children.
One of them is as basic as meeting your kids’ physical needs; others get to the heart and soul of being a great parent.
The Ten Commitments of Great Parents
There are ten commitments that remind us of the most important sacrifices parents can make to raise highly healthy children. These commitments (with perhaps the exception of number 7) are choices each of us can make, regardless of our personal life circumstances.
1. Provide for physical needs. Growing children need healthy diets, adequate clothing, quality health care, and protection from harm.
2. Be there for them. When your children talk to you, turn off the television/computer, face them, and really listen. As much as possible, attend Little League games, school conferences, and band concerts. Your presence, attention, and availability will make a significant difference in the lives of your children.
3. Give them "roots and wings." Children need to try new things. They need the opportunity to try and to learn from the experience. Supportive family "roots" will soften any falls and give them a stable place to land.
4. Balance individuality with absolutes. Each child is unique. Celebrate individual strengths and try to see life from your child's perspective. Show respect for personal preferences and fears. At the same time, operate from the strength of your convictions. Children need the security of unmovable boundaries and guidelines for behavior.
5. Hold them accountable. Children want to do what's right, and they want to be accepted. If they've done wrong, encourage them to make amends. Doing so restores their self-respect and lets them know that their behaviors have consequences.
6. Admit when you're wrong. As parents we make mistakes, and our children can see it -- whether we admit it or not. If we're willing to say, "I blew it; I'm sorry," our children learn that our relationship with them is more important than maintaining the upper hand. It gives them the freedom to admit their mistakes as well. Facing the truth is a key to good emotional health.
7. Love your spouse/significant other/best friend. Your children need the security and example of your love for another.
8. Practice what you preach. Actions speak louder than words. If you tell your children to respect their teachers while you bad-mouth your boss, don't expect good behavior reports at school conference time!
9. Demonstrate a love of learning. If you read for enjoyment and self-improvement, your children are more likely to enjoy learning. Read with them and discuss new ideas to stimulate their thinking. Help your children reach conclusions for themselves. Also, expose your children to new opportunities for learning, such as going to the library, surfing the Internet with them, and taking them to museums.
10. Never give up on them! As our children grow up, some of them will make us think we have done a good job; others may make us wonder if we did anything right at all. The time comes when we have to back off and let our children make their own decisions and mistakes. But we must never stop loving them or encouraging them to be the best they can be.
Adapted from Walt Larimore, MD, and Todd E. Linaman, PhD.
How often does your child get your undivided attention?
Too many kids don’t get it enough. When they’re home, their parents are online, on the phone, watching TV or reading. In the car, the radio’s on or that phone is back in the picture. Some parents half listen while doing other things: cleaning, going through paperwork or fixing dinner. Of course, you can’t give your undivided attention all of the time, but you can make a point to stop what you’re doing, look your children in the eye and make them feel like they’re the most important thing in your world.
Because after all... they are.
Remember your family first.
If you’ve spent some time in the blogosphere, you have most likely learned that blogs can and do change lives. This past week the lovely ladies at 5 Minutes for Mom had the chance to change a life and now they want the chance to change another.
This post is an answer to the find another family who truly needs a new laptop and printer. I believe that I qualify for this chance to change some things in my life and the life of my children.
I have done all I can to bring in money so I am on track with bills each month but I'm not having great success. I don't have the money to pay for the extras (though, they are necessities to me and not extras) have all been turned off.
I was renting a desktop computer since my old computer finally died an unrelenting death. The cost was over $200 per month. Since this is way over the current budget, I had to return the computer.
Since my access to a computer and the Internet is sporadic I had to quit the two online jobs that I had because I couldn't meet the deadlines. That was, at this time, half my income. . . the financial situation here continues to get worse.
I currently have sporadic access to the Internet, depending on the generosity of my friends, during this time.
I am currently trying to get Social Security Disability for the following health issues: bipolar, ADD, chronic back pain, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel, TMJ, IBS, migraines & other chronic headaches, polyneuropathy, and transient global amnesia. In the past two months, heart problems (cannot remember "official" diagnosis) can be added to this long list.
This past month, the insurance company changed their formulary without notice and Cameron was started on a generic version of Risperdal, a mood stabilizer. Unfortunately, the generic chemical formula makes him very aggressive and very very mean. I filed a grievance and found out that I am the 6th family in this area who has experienced this problem. I have spent many days with Cameron having to be right next to me because he cannot be trusted. Two prime examples of how bad its gotten: (1.) he broke the kitchen window, and (2.) he climbed out the bedroom window and was walking around the rooftop. Yikes! We are currently fighting the insurance company for brand necessary medication but for now he is not on the mood stabilizer.
School starts in 9 days. The transition to a school schedule is rough on Cameron.
My son, Cameron, 10, has numerous mental health issues. His diagnosis includes Bipolar, Aspergers, ADHD, ptosis, mild Cerebral Palsy, photosensitivity, PTSD, ODD, OCD, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, and Sensory Integration Disorder. Based on these diagnosis he needs constant care.
I also have a daughter, Cassandra, 7, who has severe asthma and chronic bronchitis. Thankfully, this is well under control.
I am a single mother and with no contact from the fathers so I never get a break from my children with the exception of school.
In the past few weeks I have had many doctor appointments.
I finally went to see a dentist -- yes, I have a major issue with dentists and am deathly afraid of them (stupid, I know) -- and I have many teeth and gum problems. The dentist was nice and his staff stupendous. They do put you to sleep to perform all their dental work which is why I went there. Novocain has very little effect on me. Now we are waiting for approval from the insurance company. I have 6 upcoming appointments to take care of everything. I need two root canals, possibly a third, one tooth removed, gum surgery and a bunch of other stuff that I cannot remember right now.
I am in a very serious depression (and the bipolar as well as the fibromyalgia is really kicking my butt). Yes, all the appropriate medical professionals know.
The nerve damage in my hands has gotten worse so I will be starting PT soon to help my hand and the bursitis in my right shoulder. I see a musculoskeletal specialist in a few weeks too.
This past week I had to have a cardiolite stress test done at the hospital. It was not a good day. I won't bore you with all the ugly details. There is a problem with my heart. . . it is not beating at a regular rhythm. On the 4th of September, I will be having a heart cath and chances are I will have a stent or two placed while I'm there. This terrifies me, especially since I don't help with the kids.
I have a hearing on 9/8/08 in which I am innocent but because of the state of the justice system, I will probably be found guilty because there is no evidence to support me. If you want more information, please email me and I'll get back to you as soon as I can with all the details you want.
There is a hearing on 8/19/08 that I have been subpoenaed to attend. I try to help a friend who has been abused and I get hurt in the end.
If I had the laptop and printer I could work again from home so that I could take care of my son and myself (and my daughter) financially and physically.
Thank you in advance for all the prayers. Thanks for your support and for stopping by my blog.
Every evening, write down the six most important things that you must do the next day. Then while you sleep your subconscious will work on the best ways for you to accomplish them. Your next day will go much more smoothly.
5 Minutes for Books
http://www.5minutesforbooks.com/
5 Minutes for Going Green
http://www.5minutesforgoinggreen.com/
5 Minutes for Mom
http://www.5minutesformom.com/
5 Minutes for Parenting
http://www.5minutesforparenting.com/
5 Minutes for Special Needs
http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/
8 Things About Me
http://8thingsaboutme.blogspot.com/
Absolutely Bananas
http://www.absolutelybananas.com/
A Daily Dose of Debbie
http://adailydoseofdebbie.blogspot.com/
Alexander's Heart
http://alexandersheart.blogspot.com/
12-year-old Haily created this site in remembrance of her brother Alexander.
Charmed Life
http://charmedlife.wordpress.com/
CIDP And Me
http://cidpandme.blogspot.com/
Kristen shares her journey in life, both physically and emotionally, with hopeful and encouraging words as she deals with CIDP (Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy).
Confessions of an Apron Queen
http://anapronaday.blogspot.com/
Stop in for some fun contests, antiques, beautiful photographs, delicious recipes, and, of course, vintage aprons.
Critique My Blog
http://critiquemyblog.blogspot.com/
Billy takes the time to critique the various blogs he sees as he goes hopping through the blogosphere and I was lucky enough to get a good review.
Extravagant Grace
http://www.extravagantgrace.net/
Elisa encourages women of all ages through sharing the good news of Jesus Christ and God's message of extravagant grace, love, forgiveness, hope, and transformation.
Faith Lifts
http://www.5minutesformom.com/faithlifts/
Grace Comes By Hearing
http://gracecomesbyhearing.blogspot.com/
Tracey shares her daily life -- infertility, adoption, prayer, and more -- with strength and grace.
Heart of Wisdom
http://heartofwisdom.com/blog/
Just a Mom
http://sevenwithoneextra.blogspot.com/
Max's Mom
http://maxsmom06.com/
Join Rachel as she shares her life as a wife, as a mom, and as a woman.
Mom Musings
http://mom-musings.blogspot.com/
My Friend Amy
http://www.myfriendamysblog.com/
My Life As Annie
http://mylifeasannie.com/
Real World Mom
http://realworldmom.com/
Real World Mom Unplugged
http://realworldmomunplugged.wordpress.com/
Refuge for a Single Mom
http://www.refuge-for-a-single-mom.com/blog/
Christina offers encouragement and empowerment for single mothers.
Scrapping Servant
http://scrappingservant.com/
Scrappy and Happy
http://scrappynhappy.blogspot.com/
Phyllis shows her creative and crafty side via her sewing and scrapbooking hobbies. Phyllis also shows her inspirational side with her thought-provoking posts and participation in many memes.
Self Talk Soul Talk
http://www.selftalksoultalk.com/
Slurping Life
http://slurpinglife.typepad.com/slurping_life/
Melody is a mom by birth and adoption shares and through photography, writing, and humor she shares her daily struggle with parenting boys who live with autism, ADHD, bipolar disorder, cerebral palsy, and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Melody's inspirational posts remind us that children with special needs are kids.
The Love List
http://www.thelovelist.net/
Jessica describes the The Love List as "a running list of daily discoveries in design and living."
The Mommy Project
http://themommyproject.blogspot.com/
Norma Ann shares her projects, crafts, recipes, and photographs through "living thoughtfully."
The Scrap Princess
http://thescrapprincess.blogspot.com/
To Love, Honor, and Vacuum
http://tolovehonorandvacuum.blogspot.com/
"Musings of a Christian author and mom, Sheila, who knows God cares more about us than He does about the size of the dust bunnies under our bed."
We are THAT Family
http://www.wearethatfamily.com/
Weary Parent
http://www.wearyparent.com/
What I Think
http://slurpinglife.typepad.com/whatithink/
Melody from Slurping Life hosts blogging reviews, giveaways, and contests.
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.
We all want to be popular, right?
We want to be liked. We want to fit in. We want to be invited. We want to do what others are doing. Well, so do our children. And they’re especially vulnerable during their impressionable teen years -- a time when they are seeking their identity as a person. So we need to show our children, by example, how to stand against what is wrong and stand for what is right... no matter what others may think or say.
And we need to plant a moral compass in our children that will help them safely find their way through this sometimes dangerous jungle called life.
Remember your family first.
Parents’ Day
Do you honor your father and mother? Sunday is Parents' Day... a day established by Congress for the purpose of “recognizing, uplifting, and supporting the role of parents in bringing up their children.” If you’ve had a good relationship with your mom and dad, use this day as an opportunity to thank them for one important thing they did to impact your life in a positive way. If your relationship with them has been more difficult, use it as an opportunity to open up the relational door that’s been closed for so long. Find something... be it ever so small... to thank them for. Forgive them... if you need to... seek forgiveness... if you need to. Honor your mom and dad for who they are and for what they’ve done in your life.
Remember your family first.
What’s the division of labor like at your house?
If one person is saddled with the majority of the chores, something may be out of balance. So sit down with your spouse and come up with a plan, which includes your children. Assign tasks according to each person’s abilities, interests and preferences, rather than by so-called “men’s work” or “women’s work.” Then, let whoever does each task do it his or her way – without criticism. Switch jobs regularly... maybe each week or month.
Remember your family first.
Have you ever said or done something you regret?
We all make mistakes. We react in haste or we respond without thinking. And sometimes we wish we could go back and undo something we did or un-say something we said. But life doesn’t have a rewind button. So it’s important to weigh our actions and our words carefully, before we act... before we speak... before we injure or offend someone else.
A Proverb says ‘Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.’ Let’s remember that and live a life with fewer regrets.
Remember your family first.
Marc, age 4
Marc was engrossed in a young couple that were hugging and kissing in a restaurant. Without taking his eyes off them, he asked his dad, "Why is he whispering in her mouth?"
Clayton, age 5
Clayton was in his bedroom looking worried. When his mom asked what was troubling him, he replied, "I don't know what'll happen with this bed when I get married. How will my wife fit in?"
James, age 4
James was listening to a Bible story. His dad read: "The man named Lot was warned to take his wife and flee out of the city but his wife looked back and was turned to salt. Concerned, James asked, "What happened to the flea?"
Tammy, age 4
Tammy was with her mother when they met an elderly, rather wrinkled woman her mom knew. Tammy looked at her for a while and then asked, "Why doesn't your skin fit your face?"
Sandy, age 4
"Dear Lord," the minister began, with arms extended toward heaven and a rapturous look on his upturned face. "Without you, we are but dust." He would have continued but at that moment Sandy leaned over and asked her mom quite audibly in her shrill little girl voice, "Mom, what is butt dust?"
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.
Are you raising wimps?
A recent article titled “Nation of Wimps” was featured in Psychology Today. The article warned of increasing depression and anxiety in children and young adults, and a delayed age in achieving traditional adulthood responsibilities. The culprit? According to the author, it’s parents who coddle their children too much—parents who don't let their children work through their own problems and face the consequences of their actions.
It’s ironic—the more you let your children face consequences and suffer in small ways, the happier and better adjusted they will be in life. So make your family wimp-free.
Remember your family first.
Are your children givers or takers?
Some people have a generous spirit, others don’t. But all of us, including our children, can learn how to give generously and responsibly. So call a family meeting and set up a giving fund for each of your children... it might be as simple as putting money in a jar. Let them contribute part of their allowance, or money from part time jobs. Give them some incentive by matching their contribution dollar for dollar. As their giving fund grows, help them to research and choose a charity or cause they would like to support.
When your children open their hearts to share, they’re changing lives for the better.
Remember your family first.
For more fun 13 lists and see other participants, go to Thursday Thirteen.
I turn 41 at the end of this month -- two weeks from today -- and I got to thinking of all the stuff that I have witnessed, learned, and been exposed to during my forty years.
There are many people out there who are far more sage than I will ever be! Though, I do enjoy learning about what other people have experienced. As I head further into my fourth decade on this earth, I thought I would share some of what I have learned.
Please note that the ideas expressed below are purely my own and are not meant to offend in any way, but they are a reflection of what I have observed during the reality of my life thus far.
How old are you? What are some of the life experiences that you have been through and what have YOU learned? Please educate me as I look forward to continuing my life in my 40s.
Have you tried on your stepchildren’s shoes?
To understand how to relate to your stepchild, you need to put yourself in their shoes. How would you feel if your parents had split up? How would you feel if your parent had re-married? And how would you feel if you now had somebody new telling you what to do?
Getting a stepparent can be a big transition for a kid. So when they misbehave or aren’t exactly nice to you – before you lose your temper or take things personally, walk a mile in their shoes, and...
Remember your family first.
In the past I have mentioned to many of you that my financial situation is pretty bleak. I have done all I can to bring in money so I am on track with bills each month but I'm not having great success. I don't have the money to pay for the extras (though, they are necessities to me and not extras) so the phone, internet, & television will all be turned off sometime Thursday. I have to pay $90.00 by 5 PM on Wednesday, July 16th or get an extension of two days and pay $240 by 5 PM on Friday, July 18th. I will have some money on Friday but no way can I cover this (second) amount when I have two other necessary bills due on Friday as well. It could be a month before I am able to get things turned on again, probably much longer. I wanted to let you know why you probably will not hear from me for some time.
Thanks for your support and for stopping by my blog.
P.S. There are various posts already written scheduled to post at regular intervals. I hope to be back soon.
Do you have a GPS for your children?
Three thieves in Lindenhurst, New York stole fourteen GPS devices and were quickly apprehended when authorities used the GPS signals to track them. These bandits weren’t exactly the sharpest knives in the drawer.
Here’s a “GPS” device to help you keep track of your children.
G stands for Geography... know where your kids are going.
P stands for People... know who they will be spending time with.
S stands for Specifics... know what they will be doing and exactly when they’re expected to be home.
Know your child’s G.P.S. at all times! And remember your family first.
When you download, click Save, not Run to avoid potentially downloading viruses to your PC. Doing this ensures that your antivirus software checks the files before you open them.
Jack, age 3
Jack was watching his mom breast-feeding his new baby sister. After a while he asked: "Mom, why have you got two? Is one for hot and one for cold milk?"
Steven, age 3
Steven hugged and kissed his mom goodnight. "I love you so much that when you die I'm going to bury you outside my bedroom window."
Brittany, age 4
Brittany had an earache and wanted a painkiller. She tried in vain to take the lid off the bottle. Seeing her frustration her mom explained it was a childproof cap and she'd have to open it for her. Eyes wide with wonder, the little girl asked: "How does it know it's me?"
Susan, age 4
Susan was drinking juice when she got the hiccups. "Please don't give me this juice again," she said, "It makes my teeth cough."
DJ, age 4
DJ stepped onto the bathroom scale and asked: "How much do I cost?"
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
In no particular order...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
For more great tips and ideas, head on over to Rocks in My Dryer.
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.
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.
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
For more tips and ideas on what works for others, check out Rocks In My Dryer.
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... 
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.)
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.
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.
For more great tips and ideas, check out Rocks in My Dryer.
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.
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.
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.
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