Pretending to be Crafty

What is Wayfair, you ask?

2011-12-12T22:04:00.000-06:00

Well let me tell you! Remember CSN Stores? They are now Wayfair, They still have tons of great stores just with a new name and a new website that's much easier to navigate. I love shopping with Wayfair because you can get everything you (or Santa) needs under one online store!

I've been "window" shopping and they have these SWEET kids duvets that I will be looking at when Drex gets his BIG boy bed. I especially like this one....

HOW CUTE is it?

I also have been doing a little Christmas shopping but I keep seeing things I want...like these.

and these

ooh and these!

SEE! I told you they have everything!

SO Go check them out before it's to late to get Christmas gifts!

Crochet Silly Monster Hats

2011-11-13T17:19:00.000-06:00

I love these hats! Apparently so do other moms and grandmamas because I have 8 orders for them!

I have tried to learn to crochet something other than a long rope for many years and I finalllly! After many nights on youtube and google have taught myself with the internets help!

These came from a combination of many patterns plus my own imagination. I really wish I had kept pages so I could give credit due. If you see something that looks like a pattern you had on your site please let me know!!

I got my first order for a girls SM hat today and am excited to get started on it! I'm still making the other type beanies and hats with bills plus slouch hats so if anyone is interested in placing an order feel free to contact me soon. Christmas is almost here! I also have patterns for owl hats, elf and hello kitty.

FINALLY finished my chairs...and I love them!

2011-11-01T20:52:00.000-05:00

These are in my sunroom and I want it to be bright and colorful....plus I almost hate these chairs.

Sorry it's sideways...I forgot to change it. I love this chair now. I fund the old feedsack at a yard sale for fifty cents....Then I put it on upside down....and its hot glued.

This looks different but it's the same paint just a different day inside and gloomy. This seat cover is an old feedsack also but it was either blank or so old the lettering was rubbed off but thats ok cause I had other plans for it.

I painted out name and date we got married with some doodles and such and washed it in hot water to hopefully get that wore out look....it worked! The hardest part of this was sewing each little fabric piece on, my poor fingers got sooo tired and started cramping up.

So there's my chairs. They are happy now and not all dark gloomy castle looking.

Deep Blue Secret by Christie Anderson book review

2011-10-15T17:32:00.000-05:00

"California teen, Sadie James, thinks her life couldn't get any better. She has great friends, an energetic mother she adores, and the beach practically in her own backyard. But her carefree life is turned upside down when she's rescued by a mysterious and strangely familiar boy who won't even tell her his name. Each time the boy appears, Sadie's unexplainable attraction to him deepens along with her need to unravel his secrets. The boy is there to protect her. But as wonderful and exciting as it might be to have an irresistible boy with crystal green eyes protecting her every move, every minute of the day...why does Sadie need one? As Sadie finds answers, she realizes her life isn't as perfect as she thought. Not only is she caught in a world of dangerous secret agents she never knew existed, but it turns out her true identity may be the greatest secret of all."

My Thoughts

Although this book is a paranormal romance it was nothing like I expected! I thought it was very refreshing to read something totally different than the other paranormal romances I have read.

Sadie is what every young girl should want to be and the relationship she has with her mother is wonderful.

Rayne seems like the perfect guy, he is HOT and caring and thoughtful...yet he has a secret or two.

One thing I really enjoyed about the book was that it was a clean book. It didn't have teens doing things that they really shouldn't be doing.

I loved the mystery and can't wait for book 2!! I highly recommend this easy read.

The Author

CHRISTIE ANDERSON grew up in Southern California and goes back to visit every year. She is a graduate of Brigham Young University and currently lives in Utah with her husband. Visit her Web site at christieanderson.org

Buy It!

Available for purchase in paperback or ebook at Amazon.

Watch Trailer

I recieved this book at no charge in exchange for an honest review.

I thought I had things figured out

2011-10-08T13:00:00.000-05:00

I planned to start over on my blog...and still do but it might go slower than first planned. I knew I was getting an upgrade on my sprint phone and hoped for a HTC Evo or iphone....so on Oct 1st I get the upgrade with the discount and on Oct 2 they took it away. Apparently since sprint is getting the iphone they are changing things up. One being no more one yr upgrades. UGH! I've been with them 9 yrs and I feel like a red headed stepchild. Because of no upgrade I'm stuck with the blackberry because I am not paying $400 to $600 for a phone. Its just not happening. Those phones would have made posting so much easier than sitting at this computer and hurting my shoulders. Oh well.....maybe I should ask for an ipad or something like it for Christmas. I don't have a upgrade until Aug 2012 so it will be awhile unless I come across a GREAT deal.

So lately I have been working, working and working with a little bit of Drex fun and crafting/DIYing in there too. I have these 2 chairs that are getting ready to go through a huge transformation. Bright colors will be a big part of it. I've always stuck to earth tones and I'm ready to branch out with the sunroom and make it bright and cheerful!

Goodbye to the black and gold colors and hello to new paint, fabrics of all sort and flour sacks.

Have I got you wondering?

Results to come soon.

*Thank you to all who have stuck by and still comment me, I know I haven't been around much and like I said I still read just don't comment so much. :(

WW- he was determined to finish his sucker.

2011-09-28T07:15:00.001-05:00

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Wordless Wednesday A day with Mimi

2011-09-21T11:02:00.000-05:00

Buttons Buttons everywhere!

2011-09-20T10:50:00.001-05:00

I love buttons!

I'm always buying them at yard sales and goodwill. If I find a jar of buttons it makes me smile!

A lady I work for gave me some round styrofoam balls and I decided to use some of my buttons to make some textured balls to display.

There are also some yarn balls in the bottom of bowl.

I think the white one is my favorite. A bowl of white ones with maybe a few red ones would be pretty to display at Christmas.

One thing I'd do different is I'd paint the balls the colors of the main buttons so small pieces of white didn't show. Other than that I'm happy with them.

What are some things you can think of to make textured balls out of?

....until next time

Goodwill Upcycle

2011-09-19T10:50:00.000-05:00

My daughter Kelly loves owls. Recently she went to Goodwill and bought a fitted sheet with owls all over it and 2 pillows. She wanted pillows made from the sheet so I went to work and made 2 pillow covers that she would be able to take off and wash.

I then made a pillow with a little owl appliqued on the back also. I love how they turned out.

I forgot to take pic of sheet until after I started cutting it up.

It has individual owls and also skinny owl families and .... plump owl families. :)

This is the back of pillow I made. I stuffed it just a little so it would be plump.

The fronts of all 3 pillows

The back of the little one.

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Monday!!

I have crafts I should be working on so

...until next time.

What do you shave your legs with?

2011-09-15T17:25:00.001-05:00

We wear short shorts!

Well I don't wear them! But I do like it when my legs feel like I could wear them if I chose to.

Nair never worked for me. 5oes anyone use it? I seen where the have a spatula like thing to scrape with now. Wonder if it works and that stuff use to stink so bad.

The reason I even had this idea to write a post about shaving your legs is because I wondered what yall shave with....besides a razor.

Do you use a ladies shaving cream or your husband!
Do you use soap?
Do you or have you shaved your legs dry?
....Ouch!

I use something different. You know those little tubes of conditioner you get when you dye your hair?
Yep, that's what I use.

I never use the whole tube on my hair and I know some people who never use the tubes at all and they give me theirs. I also always have so much more conditioner left than shampoo and I switch up all the time so I will use the leftover conditioner.

It makes the razor run smooth and my legs always feel so soft. So save those tubes and use leftover conditioner for shaving cream and let me know what you think.

So what do you usually use?
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Brother Number 3 by Judy Serrano book review

2011-09-13T11:05:00.047-05:00

Brother Number 3

By Judy Serrano

Coming in third place was something that was all too familiar to Hector Montiago. As his strength and grounding personality pushes him into first place with the woman he loves, lines are crossed and sides are chosen.

In the second book of the series, Brother Number Three depicts family ties in a light unequal to any other. Lilly tells the story of how the brothers unite in the effort to recover her missing son, as blood becomes both the indestructible bond that holds them together and the opposing force that pushes them apart. They fight temptation, while the enemies of the Montiago cartel unleash their wrath, only to discover that the true danger lies within.
Pub. Date: June 2011

Publisher: Black Rose

WritingFormat: Paperback , 276pp

ISBN-13: 9781612960371

ISBN: 1612960375

My Review-

I read the first book in this series, Easter's Lilly, and loved it. I have always had a love/hate relationship with books that end in a way that make you want to call, text,email....whatever the author and find out what happens because you can't wait to read the next book in the series. Judy Serrano writes in a way that leaves you hanging.....and that's a good thing in my book reading world!

In Brother Number 3 Lilly is married to Max, brother #2, after divorcing Diego, brother number 1, and is falling for Hector...you guessed it, brother number 3.

I want Lilly to be with Max but you never know what this girl is going to do. She seems to want to be with the one who she spends the most time with. Truthfully I don't even know if I like Lilly or not but I do know I love Judy Serrano's series. I always say if you really like or dislike a character in a book it's because of great writing and Judy Serrano is a great writer!

If you haven't read this series yet I recommend you get Easters Lilly and start it.

Brother Number 3 can be purchased on Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Judy Serrano can be found on her Website, Facebook, and Twitter.

Disclosure: The opinions provided are my own and not influenced by anyone else. I did not receive any financial compensation for this post. I received a free product to facilitate my review.

My Yard Sale Bed and $3 Quilt

2011-09-12T18:03:00.000-05:00

I found a bed at a yard sale that I had to have! I ask the man how much thinking he was going to say $75 or $100 and was happily surprised when he said $20! I love it when people are just trying to get rid of stuff they no longer want. The bed comes apart and I was determined to get it in my car but it was determined not to get in my car. Luckily the man lives down the road from us and said he would hold it until I could get the truck.

It was all scarred up but I knew with a little sanding and a paint color I feel in love with it would be pretty again. Don't pay attention to the bakers rack behind it. This is on the porch and has become a catch all.

So I sanded until my hands cramped up and painted...painted and painted some more.

Here it is completed. Sorry for the bad pics but my camera battery was dead and I have no patience to wait and charge them. See those HUGE old lamps? I'm so over the plain old shades and am searching for something unique to do to them. Any ideas??

See my $3 60 yr old hand stitched quilt? Love it so much! A lady I was working for was moving into her granddaughters house and selling everything. She said her mama made it out of her dresses and her daddys old work shirts. It's so cool to have something like this and know it's history. I often buy old things and wonder how they came about and if the people who had them before cherished them.

So that's the last thing I worked on and I have a dozen more in progress. That's my problem I start to many and with Christmas fast approaching I have others I want to get started. I also have to think of something for the nieces and nephews. I've had some ideas,thank you for commenting!, and I'm still not sure what to make them yet.

Do you go to yard sales? What do you call them? Yard sales, Rummage sales, carport sales????? We usually say yard sales or rummaging.

Until next time......

Whole lot of changes going on!

2011-09-11T21:57:00.000-05:00

If your actually at my blog you can see there have been a few changes. I'm not all full of wall to wall gadgets and I have changed the name of my blog. I want to get back to why I started blogging back in Feb of 2006....that seems like such a long time ago. I got caught up in some things I enjoyed for a time and lost track of what made me happy as far as blogging goes. There might be a book review here and there but my blog will not be all about book reviews and product reviews and giveaways any more.

I want to get back to my family and laughs and sewing and crafts and things that make me happy like this little guy!

I hope yall will stay around but if not I understand and that's ok too. Maybe this way I will WANT to blog more and it won't feel like something I HAVE to do.

I need your input! ASAP please! Christmas ideas

2011-09-08T18:28:00.001-05:00

Every year I make my nieces and nephews something for Christmas. Year before was bandana quilts and last year was knitted hats. I'm at a loss this year! I can't think of what to make them!!
Their ages are from 1 year to 20 yrs old. If you have any ideas please comment and let me know. I really need to get started since I have to make 8 gift! 3 girls age 20, 14 and 9 and 5 boys ages 1, 9,10, 12 and 15.
I like making them all the same thing but its not necessary that I do.
Thanks in advance!!
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Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-31T13:39:00.001-05:00

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WW - learning and playing with Pops iphone

2011-08-24T18:11:00.000-05:00

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I'm backwards and TTT

2011-08-02T19:22:00.001-05:00

Last night I posted my wordless wednesday thinking today was Wednesday.....its not, so tonight I will post my Ten Thoughts Tuesday.

1. It is super HOT! 107 today and they are saying tomorrow will be hotter. Its ridiculous and whom ever ordered this weather needs to take it back!

2. I want some chocolate cake....I do not need any but I guess that's why I want it. Chocolate is baaad!

3. I've watched so many past episodes of NCIS and Criminal Minds lately that I'm beginning to think I know these people personally.

4. One of my favorite books ever is coming out as a movie. I'm so excited. If you haven't read it or listened to the audio book I highly recommend it....especially listening to it. BEST audio book ever!

5. Guess I should tell you the name of it...The Help

6. Drex is super! He's still so tiny. He weighs 20 lbs and all these kids born after him outweigh him by at least 5 lbs. He doesn't let being little stop him at anything he wants to do though. He can sign eat, more, drink and some others I think.

7. I think my meds are actually helping now. I just don't get on the computer much cause it hurts to sit there....need a laptop so I can be in my chair and get online....or a iphone.

8. I went to salvation army today and they had 5 buggies (shoppin carts for non Southerners) full of brand new tag still on crocs for $3. Yes I did buy some. :)

9. I appreciate all of you who have contacted me asking if I'm ok. I have missed some of my friends on here and hopefully will be getting back on more often.

10. Hope your all staying cool this summer! Tell me how your doing it?
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Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-01T18:09:00.001-05:00

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WW- No Butter! Its my stick

2011-07-06T07:18:00.000-05:00

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Wordless Wednesday- sunscreen works well for sportin a mohawk.

2011-06-29T17:58:00.000-05:00

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Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-22T06:23:00.000-05:00

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Branson

2011-06-14T08:16:00.001-05:00

Having a great time in Branson. Wish yall were here!!!!
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I'm still alive! Giveaway update.

2011-06-06T16:45:00.001-05:00

TROUBLES
Tomorrow I go see my rheumatologist and I'm not sure what's going to happen.

He said lose a pound or two before you come back-
Not only did I NOT lose that pound or two I gained 5. I'm thinking one of the new meds is the culprit.

......For real!

He said you have carpal tunnel....Get night time braces and start wearing them every night.

I still have NOT gotten them. No excuse except I just haven't and the bad part is I know my hands would feel better if I did.

Also my new arthritis med is making my stomach hurt just like the last 5 did! I'm beginning to think its something I'm just gonna have to learn to live with....YaY me!!

On to better things! We leave Monday for vacation in Branson! 2 passes to SDC and going to see The Baldknobbers.
Its going to feel good to get away!

I'm having a giveaway for Therabreath mouth wetting lozenges. These are great if you have trouble with a dry mouth or just to keep some in your purse for fresher breath. They are small and they are NOT strong like some that I can't stand. There's 100 in the box the winner will get. Someone.....anyone please go enter!!

Now to my favorite subject-
Drex... He's still fabulous! He has taken a few steps and he has 2 teeth with a couple trying to come thru. His hair is finally thickening up and has some curls...SWEEET!!
He is into everything and I mean everything. I had water bottles and potatoes all over my kitchen, toys from one end of the house to another and I lost him....briefly, one day and found him in the bathroom with one of my big spoons stirring the toilet water....and by toilet water I'm not talking about the kind ladies spray on themselves. He was so happy and proud of himself.
He is so happy, smiling all the time and he's also a clown, trying to make us laugh. He loves almost all food. He's ticklish...very. He loves to wrestle and loves his Puff. Puff was bought for my nephew when he was a baby and he's 8 now so Puff is old and he stays dirty because Drex takes him every where he crawls...using Puff like a rag to clean the floors.
He's still my heart and has all my love.
Best get back to the washer and dryer! Later gaters.
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Wordless Wednesday- doodle crazy

2011-06-01T08:27:00.000-05:00

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TheraBreath Multi Symptom Pro-Biotics review and giveaway

2011-05-27T12:00:00.003-05:00

Back in April I reviewed several TheraBreath products and loved them. When I got an email asking if I'd like to review TheraBreath Multi Symptom Pro-biotics I jumped on it. I'm always looking for ways to make myself healthier and had been hearing about pro-biotics so I looked it up-

from medicinenet.com-

Probiotics are live microorganisms (in most cases, bacteria) that are similar to beneficial microorganisms found in the human gut. They are also called "friendly bacteria" or "good bacteria."

OK I admit I don't really know what all that means but it's suppose to be good for you so I will try it!

TheraBreath Multi Symptom Oral Care Probiotic is part of a new generation of probiotics that are very targeted in terms of their benefits. The BLIS probiotic strains used in this new TheraBreath product were discovered to be naturally occurring in the oral cavities of a very small percentage of children who showed a natural resistance to cavities, sore throats, ear aches and bad breath. BLIS strains selectively target hostile bacteria responsible for various oral cavity related illnesses while allowing beneficial oral flora to remain intact. This prevents compromising your body's natural immunity to disease, which can sometimes happen after antibiotic treatments.

How To Use This Product
Brush Teeth, tongue, and inside cheeks with TheraBreath Toothpaste (included) to prepare for treatment. Mix one stick pack with about two mouthfuls (2oz.) of water until fully dissolved. Rinse mouth thoroughly for 1 minute with one mouthful. Spit. Gargle for 30 seconds with next mouthful. Spit. If additional solution remains, rinse until gone. You will learn to estimate more precisely as you use the treatment. Use treatment TWICE (morning and night) on DAY 1, ONCE (each morning) on DAYS 2-6, and TWICE (morning and night) on DAY 7.

My Thoughts

I have a hard time trying new stuff that I will taste. I'm always scared it's going to be awful. BUT I was pleasantly surprised with this because it was a nice taste.

Also I loved how you just can't mess taking it up! It has all the instructions on the box where the tubes are inserted.

Another great thing about it is the price, on;y $28 So if your interested you should go to the TheraBreath site and check this product out!

GIVEAWAY!!!!!

One Reader will win a box of TheraBreath Mouth Wetting Lozenges! 100 Count!

I LOVE these lozenges! My mouth stays dry from the meds I have to take and they help so very much. They are also very good for bad breath, you know when your out and you have the burger with yummy onions!

Mandatory Entries

Follow TheraBreath on Twitter.

Like TheraBreath on Facebook.

Extra Entry

Follow me with GFC or tell me if you already follow

Tweet this giveaway with @therabreath and @kssnnikkel

Can tweet once a day

Easter's Lilly by Judy Serrano book review

2011-05-27T09:00:00.001-05:00

Paperback: 296 pages
Publisher: Black Rose Writing (December 16, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1935605909
ISBN-13: 978-1935605904

It was Easter Sunday; the day Lilly’s life went from safe and comfortable to dangerously unfamiliar. Her transformation takes her from a small town girl having an affair with a low ranked gangster in the Montiago crime syndicate, to a woman of grace and fortitude married to the head of the organization.

Lilly tells the story of her life — and the lives of her children — with childlike innocence, yet she’s desperate for security and companionship. The hint of forbidden love and betrayal that ultimately puts brother against brother adds to the suspense and intrigue. The syndicate engulfs the Montiago family as they turn each other inside out over the love of a woman. Easter’s Lilly is an inspired journey from the idyllic to the darker side of self-discovery. Read as the over-privileged brothers embark on their journey that twists and turns down the road of unbridled passion in the first book of the series.

My Thoughts

I read this in 2 nights! It would have been one but meds knocked me out. The story is about a young girl thinking she's in love with a guy that her family says is all wrong for her. In a roundabout way she gets caught up with the Montiago family and boy is her life caught up in a whirlwind! She finds out people are not who she thinks and some are less than what she thought. I'm not going to say much more because I don't want to give anything away.

I really enjoyed this book. It's a love story with a mobster family twist and it moves fast enough to keep you glued to the pages. I enjoy the way Judy Serrano tells a story.

There was only one thing I DID NOT like and that was having to wait for part 2!!! I'm anxiously waiting to find out what happens the next Easter Sunday!

You can learn more about Judy's book on her web page www.easterslilly.com . It is also available at http://www.amazon.com/Easters-Lilly-Judy-Serrano/dp/1935605909/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1305563087&sr=8-1
, (Both in paperback and Kindle)

While your checking out the book go by and check out the author's blog too!

ABC's of ME!

2011-05-20T07:16:00.001-05:00

I seen this on Tracy's blog who seen it on someone else's blog...and I swiped it because I can't seem to find anything lately to blog about.

A. Age: 44

B. Bed size: Queen. But like Tracy I would like a king size because Britt likes to sleep smack dab in the middle!

C. Chore you dislike: sweeping,mopping and cleaning the shower which is sparkling right ow because I got mad last night. What do you do when you get mad? I clean.

D. Dogs: 1 - Butter

E. Essential start to your day: Coffee.

F. Favorite color(s): aqua,gray,pink and green

G. Gold or silver: Definitely Silver (me too)

H. Height: 5 foot, 3 inches -sad thing is I use to be an inch taller. I'm shrinking!!

I. Instruments you play(ed): none

J. Job title: house cleaner...not a keeper or MAID...big differences!

K. Kids: Nikki 27, Kelly 25 and Linzy 16

L. Live: Arkansas

M. Mom's name: Wende but better known as Pat

N. Nicknames: mama, baby,Sister, Leese and Lisa May

O. Overnight hospital stays: A whole slew between the ages of 4 and 13 for my ear, 2 births and an appendicitis when I was pregnant with Nikki

P. Pet peeves: bed covers have to be just right, Please don't get in front of me and turn! Why pass me to make a turn right away? I have more but can't think right now.

Q. Quote from a movie: I'll never let go, Jack. I promise. (BUT she does..I don't understand that part! What movie is it?)

R. Righty or lefty: Definitely a righty

S. Siblings: 3 brothers and a sister

T. Time you wake up: usually between 7 and 8 but this doesn't count the half dozen during the night.

U. Underwear: Not telling :)

V. Vegetables you don't like: I like it all!

W. What makes you run late: Britt

X. X-rays you've had: ear,shoulder,hips,ankle...I think thats it.

Y. Yummy food you make: ummmm, potato salad says my daughter.

Z. Zoo animal favorites: monkeys

WINNERS!!! update on Jonathan

2011-05-17T08:12:00.000-05:00

Scunci winner is

Ladytink_534 said...

I follow you on Twitter (@Ladytink_534)

Growing tree toy winner is

Brittany Ciara said...

I'm a follower! :)

Betty Crocker prize pack winner is

Oka said...

with Grilled steak

Thank you to all who entered!!! Please get in contact with me if you won! I will send emails out this evening to winners if I don't hear from you by

then! *rushing around this am*

Thank you to all for the prayers about Jonathan! He is back with my mom and dad and safe and sound. Please keep them in your prayers because unfortunately it's not over but at least he is home!

And a pic of our sweet baby!! Just because he makes me smile so much....and this one should make you smile too.

Prayers for my nephews safe and drama free return

2011-05-12T08:15:00.000-05:00

My mom and dad have had custody of Jonathan since he was a baby. Yesterday his mom was supposedly taking him to the doctor and now she won't bring him home. The prosecuting attorneys office is involved and DHS is suppose to pick him up and bring him home today. PLEASE keep him in your prayers.Kidnapping is kidnapping no matter who it is that takes the child!

Ten thoughts Tuesday

2011-05-09T21:22:00.000-05:00

1. I wish my brain had folders or a task scheduler. I have so many things in my head I want to do and keep forgetting what all they are.

2. I wanna make a bunting to go across Drexs wall. Not sure if it will say anything yet.

3. I have a long sleeve tee I wanna make into a cardigan.

4. I have one of Kel's shirts I want to add blooms on like .... Well I will show ya when...if I ever get around to it.

5. I have a pair of my pepaws flannel pj's I'm going to turn into a blanket for Drex. If I can get myself to start cutting them into squares. I swear I look at them and can see him sitting in his chair while wearing them. :(

6. I want...ok NEED to clean my car out and want to make a cute trash bag for it.

7. I need to adjust the carseat also. I swear he's growing every night in his sleep.

8. I wanna make this cutie patootie necklace out of glass gems.

9. I wanna make a rolled rose necklace also.

10. I want I want I want....
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4 hours later....

2011-05-08T20:38:00.000-05:00

I decided Friday night to make me a summer purse. I wanted to use stuff I had available and had a vintage sheet I got at a yard sale and a pretty flowery vintage pillowcase a lady I know had given me. The inside of the purse is from fabric another lady gave me.

One side has the vintage pink corduroy button which also fastens it and the other side has 3 baby rolled roses. It has 2 pocket on the inside (because I HATE lots of pockets on the inside...all those compartments confuse me and I forget where I put stuff) the outside has 3 pockets on each side.

I LOVE it! Its not small and its not huge and it is very summery.

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Scunci Bendini hair clips review and giveaway

2011-05-04T08:27:00.004-05:00

Here’s a new and easy way to dress up your hair…..just bend and snap!

Perfect for prom, wedding, communion or just to add a bit of sparkle to hair any day, we are introducing the new scünci® bendini™ clips! This high fashion hair jewelry adds instant glam in two easy steps, and works on almost any hair length and texture. The scünci bendini is available in three different sizes and a variety of styles, including jeweled crystals, colorful beads and metallics. It’s also available in the special scünci “girl” line designed especially for the little beauties in your life.

To use the scünci bendini clip, start with gathering your hair in the desired style. Slide the bendini comb into the hair, and bend and snap it securely in place for an all-day hold.

Look for Scunci Bendini Clips in drug stores, mass market and grocery stores nationwide. The suggested retail price is $4.99 per pack. You can order a collection of Bendini clips online.

I like these clips because before I cut my hair my bangs were forever getting in my eyes! These clips stayed where I put them until I took them out! Now that I cut my hair I'm giving the package I didn't open to my niece. She has long dark hair and I know they will look great and stay in her hair even though its fine.

One Kssnnikkel reader will win a Scunci bendini!!

Mandatory Entry

Visit Scunci and tell me another product you would like to try.

Please do the mandatory entry before the extras!!

Extra Entry

2 entries

Like Scunci on FAcebook

Follow Scunci on twitter

Tweet this giveaway-

#win a @scunci bendini hair clip @kssnnikkel ends 5-10 #giveaway http://tinyurl.com/43ucpmq

1Entry

Follow Kssnnikkel with google friend connect (on right sidebar)

Follow kssnnikkel on facebook

follow kssnnikkel on twitter

Giveaway ends 5/10

Disclosure: I received the product mentioned above for review purposes. No other compensation was received. All views expressed are my own honest opinions.

SUPER EASY Giveaway!! Growing Tree Toys!

2011-05-03T07:14:00.000-05:00

Recently I had a post on Growing Tree Toys and I received a $10 off code to use at growingtreetoys.com and I would like to give it away to one of my readers!

Growing Tree toys have some great educational toys for kids and all you have to do is follow me or tell me if you already are following.

Want 2 extra entries? Tweet this giveaway to help me out!! Make4 sure and use @kssnnikkel and @growingtreetoys in your tweet.

Thanks and make sure you leave a comment for every entry!

Giveaway ends May 15.

Betty Crocker Loaded Mashed potatoes review and giveaway!

2011-05-02T19:01:00.002-05:00

I love me some homemade mashed potatoes! I swear by doing it the hard way...with the peeling and boiling and mashing and all that good stuff but recently Thanks to MyBlogSpark and Betty Crocker I was able to try the Betty Crocker loaded mashed potatoes and they were delicious! Loaded with sour cream, cheese,butter and bacon and it took less than half the time of me doing all that peeling and stuff.

The box comes with two separate packages so you can have potatoes with two meals...unless your feeding a small army, which I don't so I have enough for the two meals! Which is a win win situation!!

Wanna buy some?

COUPON:Save $0.55 off one box of new Betty Crocker “Loaded Mashed” potatoes, here.

WIN SOME!

*One (1) lucky reader will WIN – Betty Crocker Loaded Mashed Potatoes Prize Pack*

Included:

a box of new Betty Crocker “Loaded Mashed” potatoes

a mixing bowl

a magnetic hanging pot holder

silicone spoonula

measuring cup

MANDATORY

Tell me what your favorite meal is that you would try the Betty Crocker loaded mashed potatoes with.MUST DO THIS FIRST! If you don’t your entries will be deleted.

ADDITIONAL ENTRIES

Follow Kssnnikkel with google friend connect

Follow Betty Crocker on Facebook (1 entries)

Follow Betty Crocker on Twitter (1 entries)

Follow me on twitter (1 entry)

Tweet this giveaway (2 entries)

#Win @BettyCrocker loaded mashed potatoes and prize pack from @kssnnikkel and #myblogspark #food #giveaway http://tinyurl.com/6485bea

follow me on Facebook

Please leave a separate comment for each entry. You make tweet once a day and leave link.

Open to the US only. Giveaway ends May 15

Disclosure: I was provided one box of Betty Crocker Loaded Mashed Potatoes, an Oxo mixing bowl, silicone spoonula, measuring cup, hot pad and coupon by Betty Crocker via MyBlogSpark to try free of charge. No payment was received and the opinions here are mine alone.

Wordkess Wednesday - I love his ears AKA nibblers

2011-04-27T10:32:00.001-05:00

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Storms, damages and deaths

2011-04-26T15:13:00.001-05:00

Last night storms rolled through Arkansas killing 9 people. I was lucky because they were all North of me. They were moderate risk storms and tornadoes.
Tonight we are under storm and tornado warnings...high risk and some storm chasers are out and said that they expected E4 and E5 tornadoes and possibly the worse weather AR has ever seen.
I'm scared and I never get scared of the storms. Nervous sometimes but not scared. Please keep the people in South...all of Arkansas in your prayers that this will blow over without hurting anyone.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Happy Easter

2011-04-23T21:48:00.001-05:00

God will not look you over for medals, degrees or diplomas but for scars.
*Elizabeth Hubbard*
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Beside Still Waters by Tricia Goyer book review

2011-04-20T09:46:00.000-05:00

Raised among the Amish of Indiana, 18-year-old Marianna Sommer plans to get baptized into the church, marry Aaron Zook, and set up life in the only community she has ever known. But when her older brother chooses the world’s path following his rumschpringe, and a younger sibling begins showing interest in Englisch ways, Marianna’s parents move the family to Montana.

Although she is also in her rumschpringe years and not obligated to move, Marianna makes the journey to dutifully help her mother who is expecting another child. Surprisingly, from strangers on the cross-country train ride to the less rigid stance of the new Montana community, many Englisch influences awaken within Marianna—and even her father—the desire to pursue a deeper kind of joy and love for God.
After an accident, Marianna tells her friend Ben a defining story about the Sommer family, and his response further illumines the active relationship God seeks with His followers. In due time, she learns the move from Indiana was not about losing anything, but finding out who God really is. Despite all the shake-ups, Marianna feels a sweet peace, like still waters, in her soul.

My Review

This book was not like the typical Amish books I have read and I loved it! It deals with tragedy, obedience (with the right attitude), traditions and change among other things.

I will be waiting for book two to come out so I can have my unanswered questions answered.

Tricia is giving away 10 books at her blog, so check them out here!

This post is part of the LitFuse blog tour, which can be found here. I was not asked to give a favorable review, just an honest one, in exchange for this review copy.

Therabreath Review and GIVEAWAY

2011-04-16T13:41:00.000-05:00

I recently had the chance to review a few Therabreath products. Therabreath was developed by Dr Harold Katz when he was having problems helping his own daughter with bad breath problems.

I received the fresh breath toothpaste, fresh breath oral rinse and the fresh breath lozenges. While I don't have bad breath....at least I've never been told that I do have a problem with dry mouth due to some recently prescribed prescriptions.

Therabreath fresh lozenges

I'm not big on lozenges,they burn my tongue and 9 times out of 10 I will spit them out before I finish it. With the Therabreath lozenges I found they aren't as harsh as others and I actually sucked on them until they are gone. While they do have a strong flavor to me it's not near as bad as others I have tried. I keep some in my purse and use them daily.

TheraBreath Fresh Breath oral rinse

Most mouth washes sting and I was pleasantly surprised this one didn't! It's clear like water and almost has no taste. While it was different gargling with it because I felt like I was gargling with water it really works! I don't feel like I have that awful morning breath we wake up with and I don't fall asleep with cotton mouth.

TheraBreath Fresh Breath Toothpaste

You know how toothpaste is all minty and some are pretty with the strips and dots and all that? Not this one...It's clear and has almost no taste either. It also didn't foam up and make me look rabid. :)

After brushing with it my mouth felt and smelled clean and refreshed. It also has aloe in it for healthy gums.

I know i will be buying these products from now on. I was pleased to see a man in front of me at walmart buying some of the fresh breath oral rinse a couple weeks ago. You would think I owned the company! LOL

Would you like to try some???

TheraBreath is giving away one TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse and one TheraBreath Fresh Breath Toothpaste to one of my readers.

Please leave a comment for each entry!

day!

Visit TheraBreath, and let me know what product you would most like to try and why.
Like TheraBreath on Facebook.
Follow @therabreath on Twitter.
Follow Kssnnikkel with GFC or let me know if you already do.
Follow @kssnnikkel on twitter
Tweet this giveawaay using @therabreath and @kssnnikkel (1x daily, leave link daily)

Contest ends Wednesday April 20

Open to US only...sorry!

I received TheraBreath products in association with MamaBzz in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.

Sand to Pearls book review

2011-04-16T12:36:00.001-05:00

Do you wish that you had a blueprint for a rich, fulfilling life? Many of us mistakenly think that if we were prettier, smarter, had less obligations or a fulfilling romantic relationship we would, at last, be joyful and content.

Chasing after false illusions of success can propel us to make unwise and detrimental choices. Often we remain stuck in our uncertain reality because we don’t know how to move forward. Blinded by our insecurity, we forget that God has the potential and power to intervene and guide us toward wiser, fulfilling choices for our future.

International speaker and author of Beauty Unleashed, Heidi McLaughlin shares from her personal discoveries about how God can turn resentment into freedom, regrets into rejoicing, and shame into radiance. If God can take a tine, insignificant grain of sand and turn it into a unique, gorgeous pearl, then He can certainly turn our insecurities, fears and worst decisions into a magnificent new beginning!

MY REVIEW

Sand to Pearls was a very inspiring book to me. While I loved all the chapters there are a few that really spoke to me.

Chapter 8 Comparing or contentment, I remember as a little girl and a teen I wanted to have the clear complexion and shiny brown,blonde or black hair that my school friends had but no..I was the red headed, freckled, shy girl. It took many years for me to be content with that. This chapter showed me these feelings came from my thoughts and when I look back I totally understand. My thoughts started changing when my brother had a red headed,freckled face, shy daughter and I remember telling her so many times that her freckles were angel kisses and her red hair was special...not many people have it! I now realize I was trying to change her thoughts even before she had them.

Another chapter I really enjoyed was number 6- Broken or Blended, I come from a blended family and now my daughter and stepson are in blended families. I'm so grateful we always had the blended attitude in stead of the broken one.

In the beginning of this chapter Heidi has the quote-

All happy families are alike, but an unhappy family is unhappy after it's own fashion.

-Leo Tolstoy

I love that quote!

I also love the STOP program at the end of every chapter-

S- Scripture verse- there is a verse for every situation, and for reflection on your current problem

T-Thanksgiving- be thankful for what God has the power to accomplish/has done for you already.

O-Observation- what wisdom is God unleashing for you in the verse above. How can you change your actions to better suit it

P-Prayer-ask God to change your struggles to joy, sand to pearls.

The back of the book states-

"If God can take a tiny, insignificant grain of sand and turn it into a unique, gorgeous pearl, then He can certainly turn our insecurities, fears and worst decisions into a magnificent new beginning!"

We are all grains of sand and by allowing God to guide us we can all become a pearl. I highly recommend this book!!

Sand To Pearls is available through Deep River Books for $12.99, and you can learn more about author Heidi McLaughlin (and connect with her!) on Facebook and Twitter.

**I received this book FREE for the purpose of this review via Mama Buzzand no other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% mine**

Have you tried cymbalta or know anyone who has?

2011-04-09T10:42:00.000-05:00

My dr put me on cymbalta for my fibro pain. Lately I've been hurting so bad and been depressed so I'm willing to try anything.
I'm real shaky and I wonder is this a side effect that goes away? I've bEen reading all about it online and there's thousands of comments. Most good and some bad. My mind concentrates on the bad and I don't want to stop taking this if its a temporary effect.
Please if you have a personal story let me know. I really want to find some help with this pain.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-05T21:25:00.000-05:00

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Things I've been reading lately about fibro

2011-04-05T14:41:00.001-05:00

I've been on a arthritis site and keep reading comments like these that I could have written. I go to the dr Thursday and hope and pray something can be done.

*not including the names of the people leaving these comments, not sure how to get hold of them to ask permission. :/*
#1
I have a question. I have had fibro for about five years and I have been able to work even though it wasn't always easy.
But for the last 4 or 5 months, my fibro has been unbearable. I still have a job; but daily I am having to face the fact that I am not able to work any longer. I have no quality of life because it takes all I can give to just get thru 4 days of work each week. By about 1pm each day, I am in so much pain and fibro fog that I can't remember what I've done or what I need to do

#2
Sometimes I wish that the pain of Fibro could be seen on the outside, in order that people could have a little more sensitivity to the fact that pain changes everything( maybe friends could understand that if you are not working due to the pain, it does not mean this is a babysitting opportunity, or an invite to something where you are going to be sitting or standing too long, or that your motivated exercise buddy thinks this is the time to push you to walk around the block where there are steep areas, no sidewalks, uneven surfaces, grass whatever, or you would not be pulled into reading someone's graduate research project- because you are such a good writer.
I have not been prepared adequately to deal with this pain and other conditions related to it, like RA, and Osteo. I wonder if special Ops traing in the Military would be enough. Sorry for the downer- just would like to leave the pain in some triple titanium sealed vault with a non breakable code as the lock and thrown in the bottom of the sea of Antartica.

I could probably sit and read for days about this fibro crap.... It sucks.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Quick Update on my Mother-in-law

2011-04-03T19:29:00.000-05:00

First off I want to say thank you so much to all the people that are praying for her. There are folks all over the US that have let me know they are praying and that is so very much appreciated.

Second I want to say a special thanks to the people who I was suppose to write reviews for and I'm late doing so. I have contacted them and they have been really understanding. I will be writing the reviews this week if I have to chain myself to the house to do it!

My MIL is doing better but she has good ays and bad days. It seems like for every really good day she has we get at least 2 bad or soso days afterwards. She can move her foot and hand a little bit....like barely, BUT, That's an improvement because she couldn't do it at all for a while there. We will take every bit we can get.

She gets confused VERY easy and more often than not. It's like things will get in her head and stick all day...sometimes days. The dr says we can gently tell her if it's right or wrong but sometimes we just agree. She won't hardly eat so when she does eat something real good and says Mrs. blahblahblah made it and brought it to her...even though it's hospital food and Mrs. blahblahblah has been dead for years we just agree. If her thinking someone from the past made it and she will eat it...what's the harm?

My FIL has been up there most all the time, I'm praying this doesn't get him down.

Once again THANK YOU ALL!

UPrinting winner!!

2011-03-27T21:09:00.001-05:00

First I want to say thank you so much to all of you who entered!! I appreciate it very much.

Random.org picked my winner and I don't have the image because I'm on the phone so I hope yall trust me.
:)
#46 was chosen and that was Amber!! Amber please send me your email address or DM it so I can send it to my contact. I have to do it by tomorrow so send soon please and...
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

Once again thanks ladies!
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Different loves...this is my newest.

2011-03-26T22:29:00.001-05:00

I take pics like this one because I know one day too soon he will be to big for me to hold like this. He was sleeping so good and I love how he just hangs there so trusting with his little head on my shoulder.

I was feeding Drex lunch when I could see a shadow come across the sliding door. Almost the same time I seen the shadow Drex got a big smile on his face. I knew then his mama was here to pick him up. He is always a happy baby but when he sees his mama his eyes light up.

After he leaves I walk around picking up all the evidence that he spent the night. As I gather up the quilts, toys, burp rags and cotton that he pulled out of a hole in the quilt I'm already missing him even though I will see him tomorrow.

I think he has my heart.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Consignment stores and help please!

2011-03-25T22:50:00.000-05:00

I got these jeans at a consignment store for Drex. The baby gap tags were still on them. I paid $7 and the original price was $29.50.
I guess I am cheap ..or very frugal, however you wanna look at it. I didn't like the idea of paying $7 for them but there's no way I'm paying the original price when he might wear them a month or two.

What do you think? Am I cheap or frugal? Do you shop at thrift or consignment stores?

Now for the help I need....

My uprinting giveaway is doing awful!! It has NO comments!! Is it my blog or people don't want free postcards??
....Both?

I'm on my phone and I hope this link works but if not its in my right top sidebar.
http://bit.ly/f7O9dc

You can use them for ANYTHING! Get a head start on your Christmas cards, birth announcements, blog cards, etsy shop or any other shop!!
The giveaway is ending in 2 days and I need help please! If you enter and say you read about it here you can have 10 extra entries!!

........ Yes, I'm begging

No shame

Ok now I'm wondering if my blog days are coming to and end????

How many actually read but don't comment? I'm very bad about that.

*sigh*
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Going back in time.... (repost)

2011-03-22T10:39:00.000-05:00

I'm always hearing from people with teenage daughters so I wanted to repost this. It is true for most moms and teens and I've read it a million times when my girls were teens, thanks mama!

Motherhood is not meant for the faint hearted, Dead frogs and the insults of teen-age girls are not for the wimpy-Danielle Steele

My 15 year old daughter came home last week after a 4 day trip to South Texas. I knew she was home because the air was suddenly full of criticism.
"Mom,you aren't wearing that to the store are you?"
"Mom can't you cook something I like?"
"Mom, you are the most over-protective parent on the planet!"
Lauren's comments on every move I make and every word I say have made me feel like I need to stand perfectly still and not utter a sound if I want to survive the remainder of her high school years with my self-esteem intact. Unfortunately, that's rather impractical as I have 3 other children and a boatload of responsibilities. I console myself by realizing that,if ever captured my an army of militants,I could probably survive any torture applied,as I've been so well primed by my daughter.

A good example of Lauren's uplifting technique came shortly after she returned from her trip. She took 30 minutes grilling her father and me about phone messages we had taken in her absence. She wanted to know how people sounded when they called,If we had explained what kind of trip she was on and if she had gotten any job offers for baby-sitting. She sounded,her father decided,like a journalist.
"I can't believe it," he said with a chuckle,"you sound just like your mother!"
"That's a horrible thing to say!" Lauren replied.
This was one of those Norman Rockwell moments a mother dreams of: The day her first born daughter begins to identify with her. Of course,I had thought the identification process would be alot more positive.
"Well I'm so thrilled your happy to be like me,"I said to Lauren as I hand my husband a tissue to dry his eyes."There are some folks who think I'm a great person."
"It's not like your awful or anything,"Lauren explained."It's just that I don't want to be like you.I'm sure you can understand."
Well,I wanted to say,actually I can't understand. I remember being mortified by my parents,but I had good reason-they were hopelessly out of step with the times.
On the other hand,I've taken great care to remain rather cool by teen-age standards. I listen to alternative rock music. I play basketball with the neighborhood kids. I drive groups of teens to the movies. I even play electric guitar off and on in a retro rock band. How much more cool can one mom be?
I've often reminded my angel that her friends have told her,and I quote,"Your mom's pretty OK,for a parent."
"That's because you aren't there mom!" she will explain,adding that she thinks that I talk to much,laugh to loud and ask to many questions.
"Can't you just be like other mother's?" she'll ask. "You know just watch television and ignore me and my friends?"
"But I think your friends are interesting."
"See? That's exactly what I mean-grown-ups aren't suppose to like teenagers! It's not normal!"
When my children were small, I thought I'd die from the physical exhaustion required by parenting preschoolers. I actually remember kneeling by my bed one night telling God I didn't think I could make it through one more day of scraping play dough off the carpet or changing diapers.
In retrospect, it is safe to say that in comparison to the emotional torment of trying to be acceptable to your teenager.the preschool years were the good old days Back in their preschool years,my children worshipped me,invited me to their tea parties and told me I was beautiful,even if I had hat hair and was dressed in flannel pjs.
These days,however, Lauren has decided I'm a fashion hazard,a social nerd and completely unworthy of her company unless I'm providing taxi service(and her 13 year old brother agrees). I'm left wondering where exactly I went wrong,when it was that I became a liability in the eyes of my teenagers.
Hard to say,really,and a moot point as well. What's getting me through right now is knowing that one day,my kids will probably have children of their own. And as every parent knows,what goes around,comes around-as well it should.
~ Renee Schafer Horton~ article from Arkansas Democrat-Gazette 08-26-98

**This article lived on my fridge for years. It is old and tattered and yellowed,I even have packing tape on it now to preserve it. They do apologize...at least mine did,for the hard times.

UPrinting Postcard Giveaway!!

2011-03-21T10:18:00.002-05:00

I'm so excited to be doing a postcard giveaway for UPrinting! It's been a while since I've done one and this will be a quick and easy one so get your entries in for your own 100 custom postcards.

These can be used for whatever your heart desires-

birthday invitations

etsy shop announcements

blog postcards

birth announcements

church happenings

Use your imagination!

I know I will be using mine to try and get more business for my house cleaning service.

What you get:

Prize Details: 100 Postcards for One (1) Winner

5” x 7” 14pt Cardstock Gloss

on a 2 Business Days Turnaround; Front Only printing

Restriction: Limited to US residents 18 years old and above only.

Winners are allowed to win only once over a six-month period.

To WIN

Mandatory

Like UPrinting on Facebook

Extra Entries

Follow my blog with GFC

Friend me on Facebook

Follow me on twitter

Tweet this giveaway

100 postcards @UPrinting #giveaway on @kssnnikkel. Ends 3/26

http://tinyurl.com/4tu2mh4

(5 extra entries) Blog about this giveaway

This giveaway is sponsored by UPrinting, no monetary compensation was given and I will receive postcards for hosting. For more information about postcards, please visit http://www.uprinting.com/postcards.html.

WANTED! Ideas on how to shorten a lamp shade!!

2011-03-19T14:56:00.000-05:00

I desperately want to shorten my lamp shades in the bedroom! I know the easy way would be to go buy new ones but I don't want to do that.
There has to be a way to shorten the old ones I already have. I have been googling for over an hour and keep coming up with ways to cover the shades but not a way to shorten them.
They are too tall...or long??? How ever you wanna look at it.

HELP...please.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Where I've been...

2011-03-17T20:44:00.000-05:00

*Drex with his Christmas present from his memaw, (my MIL) she's in the background over the left of his shoulder.

A week ago today my MIL had a stroke and this past week has been so very long!

It started with a irregular heartbeat which pushed a clot to her brain. The right side of the brain was where the stroke occurred so her left side is the weak side. Thankfully her speech and swallowing was not affected.
After she got to hospital last Thurs. She also had a heart attack.

They admitted her of course and started treating the heart attack with a blood thinner. Friday was a good day and Saturday was too. Our hopes were pretty high. The most she complained about was a headache and leg cramps....BAD cramps on Sat. They gave her soma on Sat night and we all go home except for my FIL. Sunday am I get ready for church and run her a pair of shoes to her room first. (She really wanted these shoes although she wouldn't be wearing them.) If you have been around a stroke victim they can easily get fixated on something...hers was these shoes...and her catheter and iv but those are a story for another day.
SO back to Sun. AM before I leave for church I ask if they gave her another soma and was told no. She was not responding. We couldn't wake her up but she would squeeze our hand with her right hand. A cardiologist comes in (not her reg dr with it being the W/E) and starts talking to us about a DNR...
!? WHAT?

Come to find out when this dr leaves ...who had 0 bedside manner... Is she has a brain bleed. Apparently where the stroke hit her brain the tissue was weak and some died and the thinners she NEEDS for her heart was making her brain bleed. Not good at all! They had to take her off the thinner and we pray her heart is ok because she can't have it. Later on during the evening she started coming around. The thinner leaves the body quickly and as it left she started waking up and whispering. By the next day she was better.

Yesterday they moved her to rehab and she will have a very strenuous workout twice a day every day. Her spirits are down and that's very understandable.
Neurologist said today that a quarter of her brain was damaged and she had a higher probability of having another stroke.

I tell yall all of this so if you pray you will know how to pray for her. She needs strength and sunshine in her heart. :)
Wisdom for the drs and therapist and for her family to be lifted up. She a is a sweet lady and a great MIL!

Much thanks to all who have been and will be praying for her.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Thoughts on AS, Fibro, strokes and heart attacks

2011-03-11T21:01:00.001-06:00

I think I have an appointment this month with my rheumatologist. It been about 6 mths since it was made and I can't remember the exact date....been meaning to call for last couple days to check on that. Read further and you'll see what I've been doing in stead of calling.

I'm kinda anxious to go to my appt because although I think my dr knows what he is doing and I have faith in his diagnosis I think maybe he is treating the wrong problem...or maybe should be treating both???

He had me on celebrex for my AS and I loved it then I started feeling sick on it and he took me off of it. I can't take it because it hurts my stomach....yes I take prescription stomach meds with it....still hurts.
I also have fibro and he's not treating it. I hurt all. The. Time. Every. Where.
Seriously....my nails hurt, I ache alllllll over. That sounds like fibro....right? I know my hips and legs and shoulders are most likely the AS but all the other!? I don't think so.

*sigh*

Strokes you ask?
Yesterday my MIL had a stroke. They "think" it was a TIA which is light but it has affected her left arm and leg. She's in the hospital and we were there til midnight last night. After the drive home and winding down it was probably 130 or closer to two AM before we actually settled down. Then Britt had to be at work at 7 so I was up early. Him having to be there means leaving house at 6. We live in the boondocks. He's on the couch snoring right now and its all I can do to stay awake but I know if I don't stay up I will be in bed to long and pay tomorrow. *boohoo

Heart attack?
After we get to hospital with MIL (ambulance drove slooowwww) we stay in ER about 6 hrs before they get her a room. We find out this AM she had a heart attack while in ER.....this is found from test results.
Huh!??? How did they not know? How did WE not know? One of uswas with her at all times. Her BP did go up. 203 over 97 at one point. She was saying her chest was tight. Dr comes in and says its normal for a stroke victims pressure to go high, its apparently the body trying to naturally heal. Oookk. Maybe that's true. But was she having this heart attack while we sat in front of her discussing her bp?? She's a tiny lady and needed a stint like 5 yrs ago but her veins are so small they couldn't do the stint.

Now this.

That's not all though!
Tuesday my mama has surgery. I won't go into detail but I do ask for prayers for both our mamas. We want them home and pain free please.

I think I'm gonna find something to do ....or go to bed.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Moms the word!

2011-03-09T14:45:00.001-06:00

I really don't have any kids that ask me What's for dinner any more BUT I ask myself that almost every day! It would be real easy to open a boxed pizza or something like that for Britt and Linzy but I do want our food to be nutricious so I'm excited to tell yall about what Ragu is launching.

Who doesn't like spaghetti!?

Ragú^® is launching "Mom's the Word on Dinner," an online community for moms to laugh, learn and share their take on what really happens at dinnertime.

Ragú® is teaming up with some familiar faces, including some of the fabulous ladies of Momversation™, to bring moms together to share stories and tips, celebrate the small wins and laugh about situations that only other moms can relate to. Each month, this online community will be tackling topics from how to deal with picky eaters, to getting them to eat their veggies to what's being discussed at the dinner table, with some tips from parenting expert and author, Dr. Michele Borba, and Registered Dietician, Dr. Felicia Stoler.

In addition to the ongoing fun and conversation, the Mom's the Word on Dinner community will feature videos, photos, polls, quizzes and dinner ideas with quick and easy recipes. With two full servings of veggies in every half cup of Ragú® Old World Style® Traditional pasta sauce, Ragú® provides nutritious meal options for parents to help them on their mission to feed their kids well. This wouldn't be a true community without interaction and Ragú^® wants to hear what happens at dinnertime in kitchens and homes across the country! Moms can join the conversation and tell their story for a chance to be featured in a Ragú^®ad in PEOPLE magazine at Facebook.com/ragusauce.

Disclosure: I was entered for a chance to win a Ragú® prize package in exchange for this post. No monetary exchange took place."

GIRLS DAY!!

2011-03-06T12:00:00.000-06:00

pic from Drex's dedication

Right now I am on a date with my girls and grandson. Kelly has been home almost a year and next week she will be moving back to Kentucky. While I am so very sad to see her go I am also Happy for her. Her and Michael have decide to make their marriage work. I'm truly happy for her and pray that they are very happy and have a successful bliss marriage.

I'd be lying if I didn't say I'm scared too. I think they both know that there will be times that old hurts will surface and I'm hoping they will work through all that and get on with their lives.

I'm going to miss her terribly but knowing she is happy is all that truly matters to this mama.

SO Today I will totally enjoy my day with my girls and Drex!

I hope each and every one of you have a wonderlicious day too....

Facebook Giveaways GALORE

2011-03-05T08:41:00.000-06:00

Certain Dri “All-Star Antiperspirant" Sweepstakes
Certain Dri wants to send you to the big leagues! From March 1, 2011- May 23, 2011, enter the Certain Dri “All-Star Antiperspirant” Sweepstakes for a chance to win our MLB All-Star baseball game prize package! One random winner will win a trip for two to the 2011 MLB All-Star game and the Homerun Derby (travel accommodations included) in Phoenix, Arizona along with a supply of Certain Dri connect with Certain Dri on Facebook(www.facebook.com/certaindri), for more details!

Conair “Sneak Peek” Sweepstakes
Want fabulous hair? During the month of March, Conair is offering a “Sneak Peek” giveaway for a chance to win a choice of three new Conair hair styling tools. One winner each Friday! Give your hair some love with Conair and “LIKE” the Facebook page (www.facebook.com/conairhair) for more details!

Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies "Moving & Grooving" Facebook Sweepstakes

Now through March 25, 2011, each week one Facebook fan (oops, we mean "liker") will be randomly picked to win 8 bottles of Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies. And that’s not all! At the end of each month (February and March) one lucky winner gets the "Moving and Grooving" gift set, including 4-months worth of Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies and fun games for the kids!So get movin’ and connect with Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies on Facebook (www.facebook.com/fibergummies)for more details!

scünci "Bendini Blitz" Daily Giveaway
Just “Bend and Snap!” Starting March 7 - March 25, 2011, each day, one lucky Facebook fan will have the chance to win scünci’s newest hair accessory -- the Bendini Clip! Add a touch of sparkle to any hairstyle with a Bendini clip! Show your hair some love and “LIKE” the scünci Facebook page(www.facebook.com/scuncihair) for more details!
Catch the Wave" OCEAN Giveaway
Cold and flu season is upon us, and one of the best ways to fight back is with regular nasal irrigation! So, to help you in the fight, we’re giving away one random entrant per week a free OCEAN nasal care prize pack! Whether you’re suffering from sinus issues, or just looking to prevent illness with regular nasal irrigation, OCEAN nasal care products can help (available at Rite Aid, Walgreens, Walmart anddrugstore.com). So, "LIKE" OCEAN on Facebook(www.facebook.com/oceannasalcare) to “Catch The Wave” and get more details!

Anti Monkey Butt Powder Sponsor My Butt Sweepstakes
Athletes love AMBP and we love athletes! If you’re part of a team here's a chance to win your team a prize package! From March 1 - March 31, 2011, enter to win one of 10 team prizes! Ten teams will get an Anti Monkey Butt Powder Team Prize package (which will be enough to share with 10 team members!). Connect with Anti Monkey Butt on Facebook (www.facebook.com/antimonkeybutt) and tell the Monkey you "LIKE" him. Enter and tell your friends...help spread the monkey love!
At Last Naturals "Get Lucky" Sweepstakes

Test your luck this month and enter for chance to win the At Last Naturals, “Get Lucky” Sweepstakes! Each week during the month of March one lucky winner will be randomly selected to win the At Last Naturals gift set including a $50 Soft Surroundings gift card, the entire line of At Last Naturals and more! Connect withAt Last Naturals on Facebook (www.facebook.com/atlastnaturals) for more details....we’re sure you’ll “LIKE” what you see!

Plus, from March 4 - March 31, 2011 At Last Naturals is offering a 20% discount. Visit http://www.atlastnaturals.com and enter the code: LUCKY20.

CLOSED Certain Dri “All-Star Antiperspirant” Sweepstakes AND Giveaway on this blog!

2011-03-04T11:04:00.002-06:00

We have a winner!

Donna said...

I like Certain Dri on FB.
Donna R.

Thanks to all who entered and a email has been sent to Donna.

Going to the big leagues just got easier! Step up to the plate with Certain Dri Anti-Perspirant and enter the Certain Dri “All-Star Antiperspirant” Sweepstakes for a chance to win our MLB All-Star baseball game prize package!

The Certain Dri “All-Star Antiperspirant” Sweepstakes runs from March 1, 2011- May 23, 2011. One random winner will win a trip for two to the 2011 MLB All-Star game and the Homerun Derby (travel accommodations included) in Phoenix, Arizona along with a supply of Certain Dri.

The official entry form and complete description of the All-Star prize package is available on the Certain Dri Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/certaindri . I promise you’ll “LIKE” what you see.

One reader will win a giveaway from Certain Dri!! I reviewed this product here and LOVED it!

So enter for your chance to try it too.

All you have to do is "like" Certain Dri on Facebook and leave your facebook name so I can verify.

SO EASY!!

OPEN to the US and Canada

Ends 3-19

This lady is a imposter!

2011-02-28T20:04:00.000-06:00

She stole my body!

...And the one she left in its place is not up to par.
It won't do what I want it to do and my mind knows it can do.
It doesn't look the same.

It has bones that hurt.
It has a heart that races.
It has lines on its face that can't possibly be MINE!
It has eyelashes that aren't thick like mine.
It puts shingles on me, hurts like crazy THAT time of the month and its eyes are blurry.

It grows fingernails that I was never able to grow....wait, that's a plus.

I will gladly pay whatever reward it is asking for the safe return of my body.

I want ME back.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

My Saturday

2011-02-26T20:27:00.000-06:00

I finished this hat tonight for my pastors daughter. She is such a cutie and likes to wear hats.
I'm horrible at following patterns. I usually rework it my own way and that's not always good. The flower is detachable so she can wear with or without.

We had a yard sale today at Nikkis and I made $75. Not bad at all considering I said I wasn't going to get up at 5:30am and load the truck to drive 45 minutes to maybe sale something. I really didn't have much but you know what they say about one mans junk being anothers treasure.

After the sale Evette, Nikki's MIL and my newest friend :), took me, Drex and the girls to eat mexican food...My fav! It was fun to sit and eat and laugh with girls. In my honest opinion I don't get as much girl time as I NEED or want.
I was so use to girls being the majority in the house and now I'm the only girl....even our dog Butter is a boy.

But he loves me best. :)

Well I'm off to try and read and comment on some blogs.....we used our bytes up AGAIN...grrrrrr!

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Ready Set GO

2011-02-24T16:08:00.001-06:00

Looks like our first major storms are about to hit Arkansas. They are saying tornadoes all over the state. Its very windy at my house and north of me they are saying the tornado warning sirens are going off.

I HATE this kind of weather.

I'm sitting on the porch watching the leaves blow like crazy and hoping that keeps up because when it gets real still is when I get scared.

Yall have a good one.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Happy Birthday to my baby!

2011-02-23T08:48:00.001-06:00

Happy 25th Birthday to my

beautiful

Loveable

GOOFY

...baby

I love you to the moon and back a hundred batrizillion times!!

I wish for you all the happiness you can stand!

You will ALWAYS be MY baby.

Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies "Moving & Grooving" Facebook Sweepstakes

2011-02-22T16:23:00.000-06:00

Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies "Moving & Grooving" Facebook Sweepstakes

Now through March 25, 2011, each week one Facebook fan (oops, we mean "liker") will be randomly picked to win 8 bottles of Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies. And that’s not all!

At the end of each month (February and March) one lucky winner gets the "Moving and Grooving" gift set, including a 4-month supply of Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies and fun games for the kids!

Winners are picked on Friday at noon EST.

So get movin’ and connect with Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies on Facebook (www.facebook.com/fibergummies) to enter for chance to win!

Read and Share Stories About Jesus- book review

2011-02-17T12:44:00.000-06:00

Book Description

From the bestselling Read and Share® Bible, 13 stories from the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. These time-honored favorites include: The Man Who Ate Locusts, John Baptizes Jesus, Jesus Heals a Sick Boy, Jesus Brings a Girl Back to Life, Jesus Walks on Water, Jesus Loves the Children, Zacchaeus, A Blind Man Sees Again, Jesus Stops a Storm, One Lost Sheep, Jesus' Best Friends, One Man Says Thank You, and Jesus Goes to Heaven.

My Review

I absolutely loved this book. First of all it is a hard back book and all of the pages are very sturdy. I know that when Drex gets older he can read it himself and not tear the pages. The pictures are big and bright and at the end of each story,which is a page or two long, there are little boxes that have questions or comments about that particular story.

Like in the story Jesus Loves Children it says-

If you were one of the children who got to meet Jesus, what would you say to him?

I like this because it really gets the kids involved in telling what they think about the story. It kinda help the story stay in their head.

I also like that after the title of each story it has the scripture reference so you could easily find it in the bible and read the story as originally written.

Buy it- Thomas Nelson or Amazon

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of Read and Share: Stories About Jesus By Gwen Ellis fromBookSneeze/Thomas Nelson Publisher for this review.

CLOSED-AN UNLIKELY BLESSING- Book Review and Giveaway

2011-02-17T12:13:00.001-06:00

About the book:

An Unlikely Blessing is a heartfelt story about a new pastor and life-long city dweller Alex Armstrong, who reluctantly accepts his first assignment, a two-point parish in the wilds of North Dakota. Hilltop Township, a farming community, blooms from the prairie like a wild pink rose—lovely and prickly all at once, much like the people who live there.

Unlikely

Alex quickly finds that this lovely place is in quiet peril. Farmers are struggling to make ends meet: Jonas Owens, a faithful member of Hilltop parish, is on the brink of losing the farm. Alex believes that part of why God called him to Hilltop was to help turn things around, and steps in with ideas for saving the Owens' land. But can even God's minister help save this rural community?

There are a lot of firsts for the new pastor—the annual Hunter's Breakfast, julebukking (also called Christmas fooling), King Oscar's fish balls, and the melody of the musical saw. And the new, single pastor creates remarkable excitement among the unmarried women in the community. If you could die of hot dish overdose, Alex would be a dead man. Whether performing weddings, counseling his flock, or herding cattle by snowmobile, Alex soon discovers that his new church home has as much to teach him as he will teach them. Day by day, he falls more in love with the people of Hilltop Church. People may leave Hilltop, but Hilltop never leaves them.

My Review:

I would love to live in a town like Hilltop, A small church where everyone knows everyone and friendly is very appealing to me.

It was very easy to connect with the characters in this book and I look forward to reading book #2 in the series. With all the single ladies in the town I'm sure Alex, the pastor, will find love with one lucky lady. The ladies also love to cook for Alex and this recipe sounds so good I plan on trying it soon!

Puppy Chow
From the Kitchen of Gandy Dunn
* ½ cup butter (some people leave this out)
* 1 cup creamy peanut butter
* 2 cups chocolate chips (sometimes I use semisweet chocolate, which is good too)
* Crispy rice or corn cereal squares (9 cups or a box worth)
* 1 pound powdered confectioner's sugar (experiment - you can probably use a little less)
Melt the butter, peanut butter and chocolate in a saucepan. Pour it over the cereal, tossing it gently until it is well coated.

I recommend this book to everyone. I read it in 2 nights...only because I fell asleep...which is my fault because I was so tired, I could have finished it in one night. It was that good.

About Patti:

Judy Baer is the author of over seventy-five books for adults and teens. She has won the Romance Writer of America Bronze Medallion and has been a RITA finalist twice. She lives in Elk River, Minnesota with her husband. Follow the Hilltop characters on Judy’s blog and find out more about Judy and her books athttp://www.judykbaer.com

Blog Tour Schedule:

http://litfusegroup.com/Blog-Tours/an-unlikely-blessing-by-judy-baer.html )

In celebration of the release of An Unlikely Blessing, Judy is giving away a KINDLE prize package worth over

$175.

Click

One lucky winner will receive:

Brand New KINDLE with Wi-Fi
A $25 gift certificate to Amazon.com

To enter just click on one the icons below and then tell your friends! Winner will be announced on February 21st on Judy’s blog,http://www.judykbaer.com/wordpress

About the Author:

Judy Baer Biography

Judy was born and grew up on a farm on the prairies of North Dakota. An only child, she spent most of her days with imaginary people—either those she read about or those she made up in her head. Her most ambitious conjuring did not succeed, however. She kept a clean stall with fresh hay and oats for the horse she imagined would arrive. Unfortunately it didn’t come, at least not until she was an adult. After she was unexpectedly given three horses, she bought even more and began raising foundation quarter horses. As an adult, she managed to make that dream come true and raised foundation quarter horses and buffalo for some years. A voracious reader, Judy learned to read with comic books, anything from Little Lulu and Superman to the Rawhide Kid. She sold her first story for $10.00 to a farm magazine. She still has the $10.00.

She graduated from Concordia College, Moorhead, Minnesota with majors in English and education and a minor in religion. At the time, she was simply studying what interested her, but now realizes that she was educating herself for her future career as a Christian writer. Her first book was written with a toddler on her lap. Judy would type a few words and say “Now, Jennifer.” He two year old daughter would hit the space bar so Judy could continue writing. It was’t the fastest way to work but it was a very cozy time.
In 2001 Judy became a certified professional life coach. In 2008 Judy completed her Master’s program. She studied in the areas of writing and coaching. Now certified in three coaching disciplines, Judy coaches primarily professional and aspiring writers. She is also a faculty advisor in the Department of Human Development at St. Mary’s University in Minneapolis, MN. Judy Baer is the author of over seventy-five books for adults and teens. She has won the Romance Writer of America Bronze Medallion and has been a RITA finalist twice. She lives in Elk River, Minnesota with her husband, two daughters and three step children. She grew up in rural North Dakota and has done many of the things her Hilltop characters experience. Follow the Hilltop characters on Judy’s blog and find out more about Judy and her books at http://www.judykbaer.com

I received a free copy of this book to review for the Litfuse Publicity blog tour.

Giveaway

I have 1 slightly used in good condition book to give away. All you have to do is leave a comment and tell me what type of town you would like to live in....or a favorite recipe!

STUFF...and more stuff..and stuffier stuff you stuff with.

2011-02-16T18:08:00.000-06:00

It has been a few beautiful days here in Arkansas! Today it got in the 70s...the 70s!!! Last week it was all snow and freezing. I pray this weather stays!

It was so pretty Drex was able to play on the porch at home. He loves being outside.

His Nana sent this pic...or I stole it off FB...anyway, He pulled himself up in his crib. Time to lower the mattress!

This is some yummy yarn I'm making into a cocoon and matching hat for a little lady that's getting ready to make her appearance. It's going to have the fun fur around the top of the cocoon and bottom of the hat. I hope her mama likes it and she looks darling in it!

Know a baby getting ready to come? Wanna cute cocoon to wrap that bundle in? Email me and I bet we can get ya exactly what ya want!

Survivor starts tonight! Temptation Island will premiere and I think it's good they are changing it up a bit. I'm not happy about Boston Rob and Russell being back. I mean, they had their chanceS. let someone else get a chance to win. I'm not real fond of bringing back past winners. If the other survivors don't get rid of them right away then they bring it all on their selves. I kinda like Rob but I do not like Russell...not even a little bit.

I'm off tomorrow so I plan on getting caught up on socialmoms.com tweets and some book reviews and giveaways.

Pretending to be Crafty

What is Wayfair, you ask?

Crochet Silly Monster Hats

FINALLY finished my chairs...and I love them!

Deep Blue Secret by Christie Anderson *book review*

I thought I had things figured out

WW- he was determined to finish his sucker.

Wordless Wednesday *A day with Mimi*

Buttons Buttons everywhere!

Goodwill Upcycle

What do you shave your legs with?

Brother Number 3 by Judy Serrano *book review*

My Yard Sale Bed and $3 Quilt

Whole lot of changes going on!

I need your input! ASAP please! Christmas ideas

Wordless Wednesday

WW - learning and playing with Pops iphone

I'm backwards and TTT

Wordless Wednesday

WW- No Butter! Its my stick

Wordless Wednesday- sunscreen works well for sportin a mohawk.

Wordless Wednesday

Branson

I'm still alive! Giveaway update.

Wordless Wednesday- doodle crazy

TheraBreath Multi Symptom Pro-Biotics *review and giveaway*

Easter's Lilly by Judy Serrano *book review*

ABC's of ME!

WINNERS!!! update on Jonathan

Prayers for my nephews safe and drama free return

Ten thoughts Tuesday

4 hours later....

Scunci Bendini hair clips *review and giveaway*

SUPER EASY Giveaway!! Growing Tree Toys!

Betty Crocker Loaded Mashed potatoes *review and giveaway!*

Disclosure: I was provided one box of Betty Crocker Loaded Mashed Potatoes, an Oxo mixing bowl, silicone spoonula, measuring cup, hot pad and coupon by Betty Crocker via MyBlogSpark to try free of charge. No payment was received and the opinions here are mine alone.

Wordkess Wednesday - I love his ears AKA nibblers

Storms, damages and deaths

Happy Easter

Beside Still Waters by Tricia Goyer *book review*

Therabreath Review and GIVEAWAY

Sand to Pearls *book review*

Have you tried cymbalta or know anyone who has?

Wordless Wednesday

Things I've been reading lately about fibro

Quick Update on my Mother-in-law

UPrinting winner!!

Different loves...this is my newest.

Consignment stores and help please!

Going back in time.... (repost)

UPrinting Postcard Giveaway!!

WANTED! Ideas on how to shorten a lamp shade!!

Where I've been...

Thoughts on AS, Fibro, strokes and heart attacks

Moms the word!

GIRLS DAY!!

Facebook Giveaways GALORE

CLOSED Certain Dri “All-Star Antiperspirant” Sweepstakes AND Giveaway on this blog!

This lady is a imposter!

My Saturday

Ready Set GO

Happy Birthday to my baby!

Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies "Moving & Grooving" Facebook Sweepstakes

Read and Share Stories About Jesus- book review

Book Description

CLOSED-AN UNLIKELY BLESSING- Book Review and Giveaway

STUFF...and more stuff..and stuffier stuff you stuff with.

Deep Blue Secret by Christie Anderson book review

Wordless Wednesday A day with Mimi

Brother Number 3 by Judy Serrano book review

TheraBreath Multi Symptom Pro-Biotics review and giveaway

Easter's Lilly by Judy Serrano book review

Scunci Bendini hair clips review and giveaway

Betty Crocker Loaded Mashed potatoes review and giveaway!

Beside Still Waters by Tricia Goyer book review

Sand to Pearls book review