Pledge Multi Surface Cleaner: Review and Giveaway

If you have read this site for any length of time you will know I am a reluctant and sporadic cleaner. Having a different product to clean every square inch of my home is something that drives me to distraction. I search out the cleaners that are multi surface as well as multi purpose, and believe me when I find one i will shout it to the rooftops.

So hold on to your hats people, and get ready to listen to my roar. I am in serious infatuation with the new Pledge Multi Surface Cleaner. Why you might ask.....because if I can stroll through my house with one can and a cloth and manage to pick up random dust from my dining room furniture, plus spray it on my entry way mirror, and then take it to my computer and spray the keyboard....then I am a happy camper!... The bonus of course is that it really did a fantastic job.
Want to try the new Pledge Multi Surface Cleaner for yourself? Well you can print a Pledge coupon for $1.00 off the new cleaner. Or win your own to try here, Pledge and the Family Review Network has generously donated one can of Pledge Multi Surface Cleaner to one of my readers! This giveaway is open to United States Residents Only and will run until June 8, 2009 midnight CST. Remember to leave an email address if you do not have one attached to your Google account, so that I can get in touch with you

1.Mandatory Entry: Tell me another product you would like to try from the Pledge website.

2.Another Entry, become a follower of my blog/ or Twitter Follower and leave me a separate comment letting me know you are.

3.Another Entry, Tweet about this post and leave me a copy in a separate comment

4.Post my button on your sidebar and leave me the link in a separate comment

5.Post about this giveaway on your blog/FaceBook/MySpace and leave me the link in a separate comment

Summer has begun (when is happy hour?)

At what time of the day is it acceptable to indulge in an adult beverage?

Is it after the third time your girls have said

"Move!"

"No, You Move! I was here first!"

"MOOOOOOOOM, she is touching me, and on my side of the couch"

"MOOOOOOOOM, she won't let me have the remote....she got to pick the last show"

It is @ 3:00 pm, and my girls have been officially out of school for three hours now, and already driving me crazy.

I am sure it is acceptable to start up the margaritas somewhere in the world....right?

Scenes from "Quiet Please"

Today we had the academic showcase at the girl's school. It was great fun, and I was very proud of both of my girls. Regan participated in the "Are you smarter than a 5th grader" game and did very well. Rebecca read a poem, was in the science quiz bowl and also acted in the One-Act-Play.

One-Act Play and poetry are something very near and dear to my heart because these are both activities that my sister Jennifer and I loved doing when we were in school, and we were both quite successful at it. Rebecca has developed our love for theatrics (well really any excuse to have an audience). The funny thing about this particular play the the director chose was it stars two brothers and it was being cast 5-8th grade. Rebecca could care less that she walks in kind of an underdog being a 5th grader, and tried out several weeks ago for the role of one of the brothers. So she played a boy and had an absolute blast doing it. Here are a few candid shots from the play.

They used Coffee grinds and vaseline to create the illusion of a beard on her face. Isn't that really clever?

The reverend and church ladies try and talk the two brothers out of their ten years of feuding

The brothers are finally forced to talk and work together when they get an unexpected guest

She does clean up well....even though she smelled like coffee for the rest of the day.

Pools

Yes, we really need a bigger pool

The Memorial Weekend Quiz

I am giving the answer....You get to guess the Question, Enjoy

Answer: 4

a. The number of times Regan reminded me that John and Kate plus 8 season premiere was today.
b. The number of family members to call to wish me a happy belated birthday
c. The number of times we ate hamburgers as a meal at the various functions we attended


Answer: 13

a. The number of times Rebecca's new boyfriend called her over the weekend.
b. The number of girls who stayed at my house sometime over the last three days
c. The number of product reviews waiting on my calendar to get done.

Answer: 10

a. The number of hours I finally got in to sleep in one night
b. The number of people Rebecca dragged to the computer to look at her new boyfriends myspace page
c. The number of compliments Regan got on her super-cute new shirt

Answer: 7

a. The number of quotes we got for life insurance quotes online for my husband who is always looking for a deal.
b. The number of times it took me to finally get the Cheer Chics video in the post below to upload to YouTube
c. The number of people we have told how disappointing "Night at the Museum Battle for the Smithsonian" is.

Okay want to take a guess? Enjoy

Cheer Chics Review and Giveaway

For the last three years I have been traveling with Rebecca to cheerleading competitions all around the state of Texas. We both really enjoy competitive cheer, but one of my favorite parts is shopping all the booths that set up at each competition. Our favorite booth that we buy from has always been Cheer Chics. Over the years we have become really big fans of their hair products, jewelry, and accessories. In fact there was a girl on Rebecca's squad who thought she could only perform well if she had used Cheer Chics on her hair before a competition. They were her very own good luck charm.

You can just imagine my excitement (not to mention Rebecca's) when the Cheer Chics company agreed to let us review their "Make-Your-Own Bring It On Lotion Kit" and the "Make-Your-Own Cheerific Lip Gloss Kit" for Rebecca's Birthday Party. Wow! These were so much fun to make that even my friend Amy and I got into the action.

The Make-Your-Own Bring It On Lotion Kit came with eight bottles, three different scent/colors, glitter, and their special Pom Pom Potion. Below is the video we made of making the lotion. This was so neat, and I made strawberry (you could also choose cherry or kiwi)which smells delicious! All the girls could make it easily and it was the perfect way to spend some party time being creative. Both Regan and Rebecca like theirs so much, that they are packing them away for summer camp as their lotion to take. It is a thick formula that spreads easy, smells great, and had just the right amount of glitter to add shimmer and not be overwhelming. I recommend it for girls ages six and up and their moms too!

The Cheer Chics Make-Your-Own Cheerific Lip Gloss Kit is the other one we tried. It also came in three flavors (grape, strawberry, and cherry) and glitter. Each of the eight containers was already filled with the lip gloss concoction, and then you added your scent/flavor drops and glitter, and then uses the provided stirring sticks to mix your lip gloss. I really love this stuff and mine is in my purse seeing actual use on myself. First of all I loved the thickness, because it feels like it is protecting your lips and lasting as well. The girls love it because it smells great and has a little glitter in it to compliment shiny lips.

I can highly recommend these as a great party activity for any girl. With both kits when you add the glitter you are supposed to make a wish, which was a huge hit with all of us, and added to our bonding and sharing time. They are perfect party favors and are a great way to spend some time creating high quality lotion and lip gloss without having to go to one of those expensive kids boutiques or spas.

Want to win your own Cheer Chics PartyPack? I am thrilled that I am allowed to give away one Cheer Chics Party pack of the winners choice. You can choose either the Lotion or Lip gloss kit. This giveaway is for United States residents only and will end June 3, 2009 at midnight CST. Please remember when entering anonymously to include your email address.

1.Mandatory Entry: Visit Cheer Chics and tell me which other products you like.

2.Another Entry, become a follower of my blog/ or Twitter Follower and leave me a separate comment letting me know you are.

3.Another Entry, Tweet about this post and leave me a copy in a separate comment

4.Post my button on your sidebar and leave me the link in a separate comment

5.Post about this giveaway and leave me the link in a separate comment

The Burned and the Boy Magnet

Yesterday I went on a field trip with the girl's school. They have a program called Accelerated Reader that if you earn enough points than you get to go with the school to a local waterpark. It is always looked forward to by all the kids, because pretty much every school in the area has the same reward program, so it is a fun time to catch up with friends.

Regan and Rebecca were both excited that two neighboring town's Jr. High's would also be attending. Regan was happy to see several girls she knew and she also ran into one of her therapists. She and I basically floated on the lazy river all day. We would chat with people, spy on Rebecca, and reapply suntan lotion at intervals.

Alas, we applied to no avail, because she and I both got crispy. Poor Regan is just miserable. Her legs which are pale white because they are always under her AFO's (leg braces) just look like tomatoes. She and I both have very pale European skin that does not tan. So a tub full of vinegar was required to take away the sting and the heat.

As to the spying on Rebecca.....well of course we knew the day was going to be centered on a boy from a neighboring town that was going to be there. She had danced with him at the last two middle school dances, and he is one of her best friends brother's best friend (does that make sense). I was determined to keep a careful watch on the situation so she started off floating with her school friends, and then moved on to floating with the group from the neighboring town. Then we spied on her at the water slides standing next to him in line (along with several of their friends)and chatting away.

By the end of water park day, she came up to me and asked if she had permission to give him our phone number. So while Regan and I sulk in the Hell that is our sunburn, Rebecca basks in the heaven of once again having a boy who adores her.

PakNak: Review and Giveway

Making my children's things easily identifiable is important. For instance there is a girl at school with the exact same lunch box as Regan, and every time I see it when I pick the girls up, I am tempted to take it with us. In fact I have had to open it a few times to check whether it belongs to us or not. With PakNak I know have an easy way to identify Regan's lunchbox, and it is fashionably fun as well.

From the company:

Our Naks are 3D, rubbery, interchangeable and are super easy to attach to
surfaces (with no work or hassle for mom and dad). We knew self-adhesive,
flexible, weatherproof designs were crucial to making Naks work.

Well Regan and Rebecca love their PakNaks. The first one I insisted went right onto Regan's lunchbox. Then Regan wanted the other one for her backpack. Rebecca on the other hand wants hers on her camp shower caddy, and tote bag. They were really happy that the Naks were easily switchable and that they could trade or change looks at the drop of a hat.

These are virtually indestructible and add the perfect accessory to anything for your kids. They come in over forty styles that is sure to suit the girls and boys in your house. Each one also has it's own personality, and style which is perfect in finding the Nak to suit each child's personality. For a limited time right now you can get 20% off your order when you enter in this code at the checkout:

checkout code: PAK20

Want to win your own PakNaks? I am excite to have three winners for this giveaway, and each winner will receive four of their own ( you get to choose) to decorate at their whim. This giveaway is for United States and Canadian residents only and will end May 31, 2009 at midnight CST. Please remember when entering anonymously to include your email address.

1.Mandatory Entry: Visit PakNak and tell me which design is your favorite.

2.Another Entry, become a follower of my blog/ or Twitter Follower and leave me a separate comment letting me know you are.

3.Another Entry, Tweet about this post and leave me a copy in a separate comment

4.Post my button on your sidebar and leave me the link in a separate comment

5.Post about this giveaway and leave me the link in a separate comment

The End of School Time Crunch

I can see the light at the end of the tunnel, but it sure is painful getting there. My schedule for the next two weeks is horrendous as the girls wind up school and activities, and prepare for summer. I feel stretched very thin, and I am neglecting my work at home that I am committed to. I really hope that I can devote some time over the weekend to getting several posts and giveaways up. In the meantime just bear with my posting on the fly.....

My Schedule:

• Subbing at school two days, Gifted and Talented one day, Two Field trips to go with Regan on. School for One-Act Play, Academic Showcase, and Awards Ceremony. Plus my regular daily schedule for blogging, and my schedule at the gym in the evenings. Oh and we just got invited to Memorial Day Pool Party and BBQ

Regan's Schedule:

• Two Field Trips extra classes to get ready for dance recital. Packing and labeling for Summer Camp due to start on May 31. Dance Recital May 30.

Rebecca's Schedule:

• One Field Trip. Play Practice for one-act play daily (she is one of the lead roles), Softball tournament for school. Two more extra softball games, Cheerleading practice, Gym Class, and an invitation to spend this weekend with two summer camp friends at a nearby ranch...Oh and she is performing in two events in the academic showcase.

Poor John Mark is left to meet us places, or pick up a child at random times, and basically be on call at a moment's notice. Life is hectic so I am sorry if my posting is haphazard and frazzled, but that is how I am feeling. Calgon Take me Away!

I'm Off to Hell....how about you?

I thought I would entertain everyone with my latest adventure. Apparently in the next big thriller/horror I become cursed and damned to Hell. I just hate it when that happens!!!

Well to be honest it isn't really me, but apparently the main character in this movie has my exact same name.....UGH! As if having the same name as a bloodthirsty car back in the 80's didn't cause enough damage....now I get to be cursed as well. Many thanks to my brother for emailing me the details, and at least I am forewarned

Synopsis: Director Sam Raimi (Spider-Man trilogy, Evil Dead series) returns to
the horror genre with Drag Me To Hell, an original tale of a young woman's
desperate quest to break an evil curse. Christine Brown (Alison Lohman) is an
ambitious L.A. loan officer with a charming boyfriend, professor Clay Dalton
(Justin Long). Life is good until the mysterious Mrs. Ganush (Lorna Raver)
arrives at the bank to beg for an extension on her home loan. Should Christine
follow her instincts and give the old woman a break? Or should she deny the
extension to impress her boss, Mr. Jacks (David Paymer), and get a leg-up on a
promotion? Christine fatefully chooses the latter, shaming Mrs. Ganush and
dispossessing her of her home. [Less]
In retaliation, the old woman places
the powerful curse of the Lamia on Christine, transforming her life into a
living hell. Haunted by an evil spirit and misunderstood by a skeptical
boyfriend, she seeks the aid of seer Rham Jas (Dileep Rao) to save her soul from
eternal damnation. To help the shattered Christine return her life to normal,
the psychic sets her on a frantic course to reverse the spell. As evil forces
close in, Christine must face the unthinkable: how far will she go to break free
of the curse? --© Universal

Now this is not typically the kind of movie I would see, but I must admit I am intrigued only because we share the same name. I wonder why that name? Does the writer associate my name with bad things? Could it be someone I wronged at some point in my life? Am I reading too much onto it?

The Hunt for the Elusively Cheap Wii

I am a shark smelling blood in the water (okay slightly too graphic) okay. let's try....I am a stalker, obsessed fan, mad woman normal but frugal(yeah let's run with that) about finding a Nintendo Wii, and Wii Fit at a bargain basement price. I have looked at Craig's List, Ebay, and refurbished sites, because I will not stop until I get this for Regan (okay for me too) because I have been talking to her therapists and they all agree this would be a wonderful way to continue therapy throughout the summer.

Since I adore getting top dollar items at bargain basement prices, I am scoffing at the idea of spending over $300 for everything, and have decided if I can fine it in like new condition I think I would allow myself to spend half of the going price. If I didn't want it so badly for this summer, I would wait even longer to see if I could get a Black Friday (my favorite shopping day) steal.

I am on a mission, so if any of my wonderful friends hear of a great deal (that would include shipping) then please let me know. I would much rather Regan and I eat healthy and have a fun way to stay fit than resort to weight loss pills and couch potato disease in the upcoming summer months.

Of course the ideal situation would be for a Nintendo Rep to find my site, and say "what a wonderful thing we would be doing by providing therapy and weight loss fun to this family" LOL..... Hey it could happen...

eeBoo Journals: Review and Giveaway

Probably as much as I enjoy blogging, would accurately describe Regan's obsession with journals. She writes all the time, which is a wonderful talent to have in life. She writes stories, diary entries, rants about her sister....you name it and Regan has put it to paper. Well the wonderful people at eeBoo.com makers of fine toys, decorations, and paper sent me summer journals for the girls and I to preview from their Spring Catalog.

Let me tell you they were such a hit. Regan received the travel journal pictured to the right, and immediately began writing in it not only to plan her summer camp hopes and dreams, but also to brainstorm vacation ideas and activities for when she is home from camp. This great little journal has been in our home for over a week, and she has fully claimed it as her own.

Let me tell you a few really nifty things about this travel journal. In the front section it is labeled "Things to do", and comes with packing lists on the back page. So your child can plan and pack for any upcoming trip you plan to take. The next section is marked "Itinerary" where you can put a daily schedule, and organize your plan by the week. Then you have your daily journal section to write about all your experiences on your trip. It has an area for sketching (which was Regan's favorite part of the whole book) to have your child's vision of the places you visit and see. The next part is an address book area followed by a letter area to write those back at home all you are experiencing.

Rebecca received the Summer Days journal, that she is taking for her month long trip to summer camp. Now I get to see pictures of her every day posted on the camp website so I can see what she does every day, and she is pretty good about writing us all the time. This is for her to get to write about some of the daily activities or events she does not want to forget about sharing. She was so happy to receive this one to write about all her friends and their adventures this summer. It also includes a letter writing area and an address book which really comes in handy when keeping up with all of us who write her and expect mail in return. Luckily every day she has a rest time where the girls can quietly read and write home. This journal is the perfect camp accessory for her.

Want to win your own copy of the Travel journal? I have been given an extra by the generous people at eeBoo to giveaway on my site. This is your own chance to let your child journal about your upcoming summer travel. This giveaway is for United States residents only and will end May 26, 2009 at midnight CST. Please remember when entering anonymously to include your email address.

1.Mandatory Entry: Visit eeBooand tell me what other type of item or toy that you like on their site.
2.Another Entry, become a follower of my blog/ or Twitter Follower and leave me a separate comment letting me know you are.
3.Another Entry, Tweet about this post and leave me a copy in a separate comment
4.Post my button on your sidebar and leave me the link in a separate comment
5.Post about this giveaway and leave me the link in a separate comment

WAT-AAH the Party Review and Rap

We have had a blast during Rebecca's birthday weekend. She invited three of her very good friends to a ranch for the weekend. Some of our activities planned are fishing, geocaching, hiking, and helping with the cattle. I was thrilled to collaborate with the WAT-AAH bottled water company as our party drink of choice.

We arrived last night and the girls were so excited to try the water and try on the T-shirts from the company. They love the water! We got two different kinds to try, the Energy water(Green Bottle), and the Body water(pink bottle). The difference between the two is that the Energy water has oxygen added to it. The girls did prefer the energy water to the body water, although I can't tell you what difference adding oxygen to water made to the taste, but it was unanimously the favorite. Although, to be fair they loved the pink bottle of body water as well. In fact I was asked where they could buy this back at home. I am thrilled that we will be able to easily replenish our supply by buying it at Amazon.com.
Rebecca's friend Cecilee said she doesn't usually care for water, but it was really good. Regan and Rebecca both liked it a lot, and wanted me to see if we could get it in big bottles for our kitchen water dispenser instead of our current home water choice. Her friends Kayla and Emilee decided they were going to write a rap about their WAT-AAH. Below is the result of all five girls and their rap about their new favorite bottled water company.

Book Review: The Side-Yard Superhero

When Family Review Network allowed me to review The Side-Yard Superhero I was interested because the whole premise of the book was of a young man's experience with a friend with Cerebral Palsy. Since this is a major factor of our every day life, I was intrigued by the perspective. Let me tell you I was not disappointed.

This is a a very moving story to the point that I was sobbing by being blessed to have read it. The special friendship that formed between the author Rick Niece and the disabled Bernie Jones who was a stop on his paper route is something to be treasured.

Probably the things that touched me the most was that throughout the book Rick teaches Bernie. Whether it is more about the town that virtually ignores Bernie, or whether it is an afternoon of horseshoes. Rick teaches Bernie about life outside his little world by sharing with him about his schoolwork and reading to him from Beowulf. The larger lessons are learned by Rick through all his time spent with Bernie.

I shared with Regan how much I loved the book, and she wants to read now that I am done. I think it will be a real eye opener to her on how far we have come with special needs and how precious a genuine friendship is.

I love this book and it is the perfect read for anyone who would like to read a special view of friendship, and also if you have a someone with special needs in your life. This will touch your heart and fill you with joy.

The Birthday Party Competition

I love birthday parties. Not my own mind you....my birthday is in a few days , and I really don't give a flip about what happens on that day. I love hearing from my family, and any gift is always well received. But, I don't particularly want a fuss made over me. For my girls though I love to plan and budget for a perfect event.

The key word to that though was budget. Because my own personal challenge is to figure out a way to do a completely unique and different birthday party on practically no budget. This is my own personal challenge.....and I love it! My problem is that it feels over the last few years that everyone has made throwing their child a "perfect party" a competition. What became in my mind a personal challenge, had had to be "outdone" by some of the other moms......ARGHHHHHHHH!

Here are some examples (mind You completely different moms in each example)

Our Party
Last year I organized a scavenger hunt. Divided three teams of four girls and one mom in charge of each team. Came up with a list of twenty fun things to do/collect/or photograph all over town, and then we met up at a friends house who loaned me her backyard for a pool party and barbecue. It was fun and cost me hot dogs, chips, and nailpolish in goodie bags.
Competitive Party
This lead to a mom taking all kids out for expensive Libby Lou Party and then out to eat at fancy restaurant and overnight at out of town condo by the beach.


Our Party
Regan had movie night/hotel pool party. I bought all movie tickets using Fandango bucks earned in surveys. Fed the kids on samples at Sams where I bought their candy for the movie theatre. Hotel gave me a deal got two rooms (priceline...and then screw-up). Breakfast and indoor pool included. Total Cost about $70 and that was six kids and another mom. No Goody bags at that party
Competitive Party
One Mom invites double the amount of kids to rent several rooms at same hotel, then pays to keep pool open extra hours, and takes kids out to breakfast (even when provided for free) then takes kids to Build-a-bear the following day

Our Party
Rebecca is given permission (since I am a coach) to have a slumber party at out tumbling gym. Kids get to jump on trampolines til midnight and we organize games. Then I brought TV and DVD and they watch movies til sleep time. I had 30 girls at this party. Food partly supplied by survey groups, and bzz/houseparty stuff. Goody bags were candy. Cost about $35 for food and goodie bags
Competitive Party
Slumber Party at semi-close zoo that lets the girls help feed the animals, take midnight flashlight tours, lots of educational things, and then another breakfast tour.

I think You get the idea. What I consider a fun personal challenge has turned into some bizarre competition (and boy could I list way more examples). Many of our friends have stopped doing birthday parties all together because they felt theirs would not measure up and their child was being judged by the party. It is ridiculous! As I move into birthday party mode for this weekend, I am glad it is only three girls and that they are genuine and good kids, that will not feel the heat to up the ante.

Do you feel like birthday parties have gotten out of hand?

Latex Gloves the Gift that Keeps Giving

Yesterday as the girls climb in the car, Rebecca can't wait to share with Regan that she got her a gift.

Rebecca: Hey Regan, I got you one of your favorite things today.

Regan: What is it?

Rebecca: I got you a whole box of Latex Gloves

Regan: Oh Cool! Thanks Becca!

********Hold on here!!!!!!!
One of Regan's favorite things is Latex Gloves? In what bizarre world did I just enter? What are my children doing with Latex, and why would they think that makes a good gift?

Me: Rebecca, you have been at school all day, how did you get a box of latex gloves?

Rebecca: Mr. Meyer had a bunch of us helping clean out the bus barn, and those were going in the dumpster. So I rescued them from them dumpster for Regan.

Me (thoroughly confused and disturbed): Regan honey, on what planet are Latex gloves considered a rockin gift?

Regan: Mom, they make the best rooster balloons when you blow them up

Uprinting.com Poster Giveaway

I am not sure whether you have noticed or not, but my site has a new corporate sponsor, on my sidebar. I must admit I am quite excited, and I hope this means that I am growing a business alongside a successful blogsite. I really like the UPrinting.com site, because of all the available options there are, and I hope we have a succesful collaboration.

I have been looking for a good printing source of business cards, labels, and online poster printing. Yes, you read that correctly, I want to print out a poster. We took some gorgeous family picture's over the Easter Holidays, and I would love to have a poster made for my grandmother. It is also a great way to get large prints of my children to adorn my walls as more artwork. Speaking of artwork, That is another thing I could have a poster made out of. The scanned artwork that Regan and Rebecca have made for me over the years. This would really take it to the next level. Regan is currently working on an abstract art project, that would be beautiful and professional look made from poster printing.

Anyway, to the matter at hand, my new sponsor is allowing me to host a giveaway of a 16x20" Poster Print giveaway from UPrinting.com. This giveaway is open to everyone, but it only includes shipping and handling if you live in the United States or Canada. All others should expect to pay shipping and handling if they win this giveaway. This contest will conclude on May 21, 2009 at midnight CST. Please remember that when entering anonymously include your email address so that you can be reached.

1.Mandatory Entry: What would you have made into a 16x20 inch poster? Leave a comment and let me know.
2.Post about this giveaway and link back to UPrinting.com

Happy Day Banners Review and Giveaway

To Celebrate Rebecca turning eleven this week I am proud to talk about a company that helped make that special. Happy Day Banners is an online banner company specializing in banners for every occasion. I was looking for just the thing to make Rebecca feel special and showcased as the diva she thinks she is, and I knew a special birthday banner was just the thing to do that.

The website is wonderful with all of it's choices. There were nearly 40 different looks in the birthday section alone. From choices for children to your more adult turning 21 with drinks, or "Over the Hill" to make everyone notice the birthday girl or boy. Well as you can see Rebecca is so proud of hers, and we promised it could adorn the gate at her birthday party this weekend at a friend's ranch. She thinks that will be incredible special to drive through a gate that has "her" banner hanging from it.


If you don't particularly need a birthday banner, then how about custom made banners for everything from graduations, wedding, sports teams, and even garage sales. The garage sale one would really come in handy since my friend Tammy and I throw one about twice a year. Really the possibilities are endless. My favorite though were the banners for the marriage proposals. That would really be romantic and attention getting!


Would you like to win your own custom-made banner? Thanks to Happy Day Banners for offering to sponsor a giveaway for one from my site. The certificate entitles the winner to one 2x4 foot banner and free shipping (not to exceed $34.99). When you see all the choices, you will be as impressed as I was. This giveaway is open to United States Residents only. Please remember that if you enter anonymously I must have an email address to get in touch with you. This giveaway will end May 20, 2009 at midnight CST.

1.Mandatory Entry: Visit Happy Day Banners and tell me what kind of banner you would get.
2.Another Entry, become a follower of my blog/ or Twitter Follower and leave me a separate comment letting me know you are.
3.Another Entry, Tweet about this post and leave me a copy in a separate comment
4.Post my button on your sidebar and leave me the link in a separate comment
5.Post about this giveaway and leave me the link in a separate comment

Keep Austin Weird

My title might look a little strange to anyone who is not a native Texan, but this is truly the motto of Austin, Tx. This is a culture that thrives on the fact that they are unique and different, and well not a afraid to put it out there. In fact this motto adorns Tshirts, coffee mugs, bumper stickers all over the city.

I was made acutely aware again of Austin's famous motto on Mother's Day, as my family all gathered at the awesome Tex-Mex restaurant Z-Tejas Grill (Where I can highly recommend the entire menu). Regan and I were waiting along with my sister at street level, for the staff to activate the elevator that takes patrons to the dining level on the second floor. Regan was safely ensconced in the lift as Jennifer and I chatted while we were waiting for it to start.

Then out of the corner of my eye I notice a man mid-40's strolling along the Austin sidewalk wearing only a banana hammock (thong)....and that was all. i wasn't sure whether to gasp or laugh, but I can tell you I did do an all out gape as he strolled by in all of his semi-glory. I first thanked heavens that Regan was already in the lift with her back turned from us, secondly that Rebecca, my five year old niece Kyla, and the various other family members were already upstairs.

"Well there is a definite TMI (Too much information)" I commented to Jennifer. She swung around and got an eye-full of 40ish yr old booty walking down the street.

I have to wonder what in that man's world makes walking around like that perfectly acceptable?

Jennifer's Comment?

Well the motto is "Keep Austin Weird"

He is doing his part.

Just A Little Wii Covet

Last night John Mark, Regan and I all went over to good friend's of ours to play on their Wii. Now I enjoy playing video games, but I would literally play all day without self control, so I choose to not buy one of these fabulous systems. I have also determined that my family and I would be eternal couch potatoes if we had one of these and I prefer for us all to be active......that is until I played Wii Fit last night for the first time.

First of all the thing had the audacity to age me over 10 years!!!!!, and told me I needed to lose a few pounds (really , I hadn't noticed, but thanks for pointing it out to a room full of people). Then I actually got to exercise on it thinking it would be no big deal. It was tough and fun and I had a blast and I really want one of these machines to torture me and tell me I have to work out on a daily basis. I want to watch my precious little me get smaller, and look svelte. I am mad that on screen my cute little mii looks like a tub of lard (sigh).

You know the coolest part though? Regan could do a lot of the exercises on her walker. She stood there working on better balance, and even had the remote controls and ran a race in competition with our friend's daughter. There she was working hard, and having a blast better than any physical therapy has done in a long while.
In fact today she was complaining of being a little sore from working out.

Well I told John Mark that I would concede that this was worth us finding some space in our budget. If I can get Regan excited about exercise and get her working out all summer this would be such a blessing. So we are going to put aside a little money over the next few months, and also see if this qualifies as therapy, and look into medical compensation (not for the Wii, just for the fit program). I love the idea of she and I working out together (I would rather get a serious work out than result to Apidexin) when we are about to get a three month break from official Physical Therapy which is school based and not available to us during the summer.

I am curious who out there has Wii fit, and is it a great possible therapy program for Regan besides, being a good fitness program for myself?

10 Things you want to Know about Me

I have been tagged by the Spirited Motha. She is a fun read, you should go check her out! Here are my fun FYI's

10 Things You Were Dying to Know :
1. What is your current obsession?

Well my top obsessions are Blogging, Awesome mail, and stuff to review, Getting outside during the gorgeous weather, Geocaching, Reading, and Swimming (I am such a water baby, and would just live in a pool if I had one). Basically I love anything that distracts me from cleaning ,my house.

2. Which item of clothing do you wear most often?

I love boutique clothing so I always like to wear a cute top. I also don't feel dressed unless I have on earrings

3. What’s for dinner?

We are headed over to friends for dinner for an evening of Wii, Margaritas, and Steaks grilled on the pit.

4. What are you listening to?

The girls are watching "Sweet Life on Deck" right next to me in the living room.

5. Say something about the one who tagged you:

I really don't know her that well, but I look forward to getting to know her better

6. Favorite vacation spot?

Oh wow, I love Disney for the wholesomeness and theme park fun. I love Vegas for the food, shows, and gambling. I love The Bahamas for relaxing and snorkeling.

7. What are you reading right now?

I am reading "How to Listen so your kids will talk and talk so your kids will listen", "Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover", and "The Lightening Theif". I read constantly and always more than one book.....so this time I am in the midst of three.

8. Four words to describe yourself?

Energetic, Bubbly, Optimistic, and Logical. My girls said I have to add Nosy and "Say it like it is".....that's what I get for asking them.

9. Guilty pleasure?

Anything Chocolate or baked goods

10. First Spring thing to do?

Take Pictures in the Bluebonnets, Dewberry picking, and Walking in the evenings.

Tag, now you’re it (If you want to play)!

Sorry,My Ice Wizard is Training Right Now

I have had a hard time blogging the last three days because Regan and I are completely addicted to the new online site Wizard 101. We are currently students in the Ice School, so we get trained in those kinds of spells. We also have tasks and errands to do all over this virtual world. We are doing the free version which I am sure will eventually run out, but right now it is day three and still free! No this is not a review in any way.....just plain addicting!

I think the problem is I am way to interested in fantasy fiction. I have obsessed in years past over Harry Potter (I went to three midnight book openings), I am obsessive over The Lord of the Rings, I adore reading fantasy fiction, and I could truly see myself being a Dungeons and Dragons Queen if I were not careful. The thing is when something tempts you in that way....it is better for me if I just stay away from it. I will be a better mom and wife, if I am not of trying to fight orcs and trolls in some massive MPG.

I am hoping one day in my retirement years I can spend days in middle earth, or going through wizard school and no one will suffer or be the wiser (lol). I may be the only granny online, but I will kick butt and take names! Anyone want to play with me in about fifteen years?

Dirty Bow Wow: Book Review and Giveaway

I come from a long line of dog lovers. Particularly I have pretty much grown up with predominantly Irish Setters or Golden Retrievers. Both gorgeous breeds who have a real passion for having their own toys. Currently My parents and my brother both have Golden Retreivers adopted from a Golden Retriever Rescue Society, and I can't wait to get my own Golden for my girls when we are settled in a permanent house. Now Alex and Toby the family Goldens have another thing in common....they love their toys!

To celebrate dogs and their penchant for toys is this heart warming new book Dirty Bow Wow by Cheryl and Geoffrey Katz. Each page of the book features a particular dog and breed with their favorite toy. My favorite picture was the poodle with the pink purse....too cute!

Currently in the month of May the authors are partnereing with several bookstores across the country to have a dof toy drive to collect toys for dogs in shelters and rescue groups. What a fantastic way to give back for all you dog lovers. For more information on the Dog toy drive please click HERE



Want to win your own copy of Dirty Bow Wow? Then if you live in the United States you are in luck. I am pleased to have a giveaway for your own copy, sure to please you or your favorite canine companion. Remember of you are entering anonymously, I really need your email address to get in touch with you. This Giveaway will close on May 17, 2009 at midnight CST.

1.Mandatory Entry: Tell me your favorite Breed and why.
2.Another Entry, become a follower of my blog/ or Twitter Follower and leave me a separate comment letting me know you are.
3.Another Entry, Tweet about this post and leave me a copy in a separate comment
4.Post my button on your sidebar and leave me the link in a separate comment
5.Post about this giveaway and leave me the link in a separate comment

Coming to you Live: Vado Review

Well I have wanted to Vlog for awhile now, but a video camera is not in my household budget, and the quality of my digital camera leaves lots to be desired. You can imagine then how incredible it is to actually get to review a video camera thanks in part to Creative. The girls and I of course went straight for the pink camera because we couldn't resist it, although to be fair it does come in other boring colors like black and silver.


When it arrived I was taken aback with how small and compact it is. It fits easily in my purse and is smaller than my cell phone. There is a 2 inch screen on one side so that you can easily view all that you are taping without having to strain your eyes at all. My favorite part though is how easy it is to use.

It didn't even take us five minutes to figure it out. Well to be fair it took Rebecca about a minute and then she retaught it to me. So my 10 year old new how to work it instantly, and I took a few minutes more for instructions. But, both my girls found it very easy to just direct the camera, press record (the white button) and go with it.

There is also a nifty button that allows you to instantly trash any video that is not up to quality. This came in handy with Regan's three videos of her own knees. Which might have made for fun posting not really but I wasn't going to chance it. The Vado is also easy to charge and upload with. It plugs right into your USB port and you can choose to load up to YouTube or Photobucket with the push of a button. The battery is rechargeable, and charges through your USB or you can purchase a separate wall adapter for it.
Probably my favorite part is that it holds up to two hours of video on it. I can't wait to take it to our Mother's Day Lunch on Sunday in Austin to capture three of my grandparents, my parents, and my children to get to have that memory of four generations on film. This is such a convenient way to capture those wonderful moments inlife as they happen. Thank you so muchCreative for allowing me to review one.

Looking for an awesome Mother's Day gift? The Vado is less than $100 dollars which seems like such a bargain for all that you can get out of it. With something this convenient and easy to use, then Mother's Day Shopping just became a breeze.

Oh by the way want to hear me ramble about the Vado and take a tour of my kitchen and living room...then enjoy (and ignore the dirt!)

All things American Girl

We are huge fans of the American Girl Doll Company. Last year we trekked to the new Dallas store with friends of ours for a fun girls weekend. Here is Regan and Molly with the Molly Exhibition.
Did you know Rebecca is actually featured in one of the books....it is her one little claim to fame The book is called "American Girls love Gymnastics." She was thrilled to pose with her photo and book in the bookstore
We were tickled to watch the doll salon in action. Yes, Those are real dolls and professional stylists working in them.

Time to stop in for a treat. Regan never needs an excuse for chocolate milkshake ( well really who does?)This is Rebecca with her Kitt doll. I love the historical aspects of all the dolls and how much you can learn about those eras of American History by reading their books.

What would benefit us by putting her on Social Security?

A friend of mine not to long ago asked us whether or not Regan got Social Security. When I replied "no" she looked a little surprised at me. This is something John Mark and I have tossed around for years, and gone back and forth about. Really I think I just want some input from all of you other special needs parents or any of you who might know the information.

I guess when they told us about social security disability when she was born, I thought it was kind of like a handout for those who were really in need. Since we had insurance, we just moved forward and paid her medical bills. I guess I kind of assumed later on she would hold a job that would have Social Security taken out for retirement one day just like every other American. Since we don't particularly see her as needy I just never gave it much thought. What exactly would we need it or use it for? Am I missing part of the bigger picture?

Then on the other hand John Mark and I have both worked over the years and had our share taken out of paychecks, and we wonder with the state of government whether we will actually see it in our lifetime. The current program is a mess and not getting any better. Are we taking a chance that there will actually be money to add to our retirement one day? If there won't be are we justified in at the least making sure Regan is covered in case of emergency?

I have looked at the massive Social Security website, and I can't make heads or tails of it. I really would love the opinions of those out there in this situation. Do I really not understand the purpose of the program should I be taking care of my child in this area?

A New Leaf

With Spring in full bloom, I wanted to comment on personal renewal as well. As a family we have struggled through the winter, almost unaware that we were in jeopardy of losing our sense of family through lack of communication, lack of awareness, and a growing sense of apathy. Do you ever see that happening around you. You trudge through the days, just working on making it through the day.....instead of making each day count.

It has been like that for us lately, just getting through. It is sad and disappointing, but one of those necessary lulls in life that you eventually have to snap out of.

The girls and I have been avoiding John Mark.....not for anything he has done personally, but because the tension around him has been palpable and hard to bear. When you are married to someone whose business revolves around how the economy and the state of Wall Street are doing....it is really hard to not walk on eggshells. The lack of sleep, stress, and just making it through has been tough. It has taken it's toll on all of us.

To add to the stress I have been so worried about the character development of Rebecca and making sure that she understands that she is so much more than a pretty girl. She has to be a genuine person who sticks up for others and empowers those around her. To raise up others and glorify her talents to God instead of basking in her own self worth. You can read more here.

The brilliant side to all of this is I can feel us turning the corner. With the advent of spring has come the birth of a renewed family, and it feels wonderful. John Mark called me from California (where he is taking a much needed break for a few days) to apologize for his recent stress and tension. He can't wait to come home and be with his girls. He sounds so genuinely happy and carefree for the first time in a long time.

Rebecca went to an end of school dance this weekend, where she danced with several boys, that before she would have turned her nose up.....and yes even that particular one aforementioned in "that" post. She told others who started to comment or poke fun to stop it immediately. I am hoping this is the blessing we have prayed for.

Oh by the way, Regan all of a sudden in her obsessive ways decided since her hair color and skin type resemble Bella of "Twilight", that she is going to grow her hair out of it's current rock star shortness. She assures me she is going to learn how to brush it and care for it herself. We are still working on proper face washing techniques to compliment the best acne treatment....oh those teen years!

Things Remembered Charm Story Review

There are many firsts that I have loved as a mother such as the birth of my girls, their first steps, their first hair cuts, and Kindergarten graduations.... The list is endless. I cherish all those memories, but I tend to try to be a clutter-free person. Luckily, I have found the perfect way to showcase those memories without adding to my house. Now Things Remembered has the perfect way to celebrate all of your motherhood milestones with their new signature line Charm Story.

I must confess to a love for charm bracelets and right now I have three of them. I have my high school bracelet that is filled with charms symbolizing all my activities. I have a travel charm bracelet that I add to when we take a trip, and now I am in love with the idea of a Mother's Charm Bracelet to tell the story of my life as a mother. I am so fortunate to have been able to receive a Charm Story Bracelet and select two charms from the collection to review from Things Remembered What a wonderful idea with Mother's Day coming up next Sunday. Here are the two I chose along with the starter Bracelet.

When my bracelet arrived, I was so pleased with the absolute quality of the charms. They are stunning! I am excitedto put in pictures of the girl's as babies, and then add to my bracelet to symbolize each step of the journey. I really like the fact that it is a portable and fashionable memento that I can show off my Charm Story so easily, and it looks great with all my wardrobe.

Are you on a quandary on what to get your mother for Mother's Day? Then please consider this wonderful gift. The best part to me is that it is a never ending present because you can add charms for future birthday's and Christmases with more charms. What an awesome idea! I can personally put my stamp of approval that this mother's day gift would definitely be one to remember if you gave a Charm Story bracelet from Things Remembered

Prima Princessa Review and Giveaway

Regan is the ballerina in our family. In fact it is one of her favorite things to do in life. Every Monday she has her own private dance class where she can work on her skills, and use her walker as her barre. Last year her performance was so touching there was not a dry eye in the house at the dance recital. Knowing how much dance means to my daughter I was thrilled to receive a copy of Prima Princessa to review. Oh by the way isn't she cute in her recital costume?

Prima Princessa was viewed by both of my daughter's and my five year old niece. We spent an evening watching and dancing to Swan Lake, and learning some basic moves. Even if you do not know a pirouette from a grand jete you will enjoy watching this DVD with any of your tiny dancers. This show includes:

It is a 40 minute DVD for anyone aspiring to be a ballerina or princess and stars a cartoon fairy ballerina princess named Prima Princessa who takes an adorable group of pre-school girls on a magic journey to see a live performance of Swan Lake, performed by the world famous Paris Opera Ballet, complete with kid-friendly narration by Prima Princessa. Between acts they come home and in a fun montage of animals, kids, and young dancers from the New York City Ballet's SAB they learn basic ballet steps. Our DVD gets kids up and dancing and twirling in their livingrooms!

Would you like the chance to experience this wonderful DVD for yourself? You can win a copy This giveaway is open to US residents only and will be close May 10, 2009 midnight CST. If you are entering this giveaway anonymously please leave an email address where you can be reached.

1.Mandatory Entry: Tell me who you would like to win this for.
2.Another Entry, become a follower of my blog/ or Twitter Follower and leave me a separate comment letting me know you are.
3.Another Entry, Tweet about this post and leave me a copy in a separate comment
4.Post my button on your sidebar and leave me the link in a separate comment
5.Post about this giveaway and leave me the link in a separate comment.

This Giveaway is being held in conjunction with the Bloggy Carnival held at livegiveaways.com. Enter all of them and enjoy!