The Arkansas Fallen Firefighters Memorial celebrated their ground breaking on Saturday, March 23, at 2 p.m. at the Capital in Little Rock. Daniel and I are so excited to be a part of bringing this memorial to life. What better way can we honor the families of those lost in service then to see this dream through.
On September 20, 1975 Daniel’s father, Davey, and two of his fellow McGehee firefighters were killed while answering a call. At the time of his death Davey was only 27 years old and Daniel barely two.
Our friends, family, co-workers, and the strangers we’ve met along the way can all attest to the man Daniel has grown up to be. A man his Mother, Marilyn, is proud to call her son, and the son his Father is equally proud to watch over.
Daniel was never given the chance to know his Dad, the relationship they could’ve had was lost in that fire. Many other families, too many to name, know this hurt and pain. Daniel in a sense is fortunate; his Mom kept his Dad’s letters, journals, and other personal things so her son could know the man she will forever love. Other families are not as lucky; other spouses, children, brothers, sisters, cousins, aunts and uncles need their something. Some have only a picture, some just the name, but for the majority of these families a memorial in honor of the one they loved is all that they will have.
The Arkansas Fallen Firefighter Memorial has a current list of The Fallen that stands at 99. The list dates back to April of 1889. That’s 99 families that all deserve our heartfelt thoughts, prayers, and help.
The memorial is being funded through donations. They Arkansas Fallen Firefighters memorial Organization has done their best to give those of us willing and able multiple ways to support the project. There have been Boot Fest Concerts to raise awareness and funds. There are things like lapel pins or bracelets that can be purchased with the proceeds going directly yo the Memorial. There are granite pavers being sold. The state offers Fallen Firefighter car tags, and or course they always accept cash donations.
If you’re interested or would like more information I encourage you to visit their website, www.arfallenfirefighters.org. Together we can give Daniel, his family, and the members of the other 99 Fallen firefighters’ families our thanks for their sacrifice, the respect, honor, and Memorial they deserve.
Friday, June 7, 2013
Second Chance Miracles
10 years ago this May, my family received a gift that we will never be able to say enough thank you(s) for.
A young man, Nathan, had just passed away and in the midst of his parent's grieving they were asked if they would consider donating their son's organs and tissue, so that others may have a chance to live.
I don't know how many of you are currently Organ and Tissues donors, and I don't know how many of you are parents but, I do know that for me, that would have been a tough question to hear let alone answer.
However, for Nathan's parents they knew what they wanted for their son's memory. They wanted him to always be remembered. They wanted no one to forget the lively, intelligent young man he was. So, although losing their son was a heartbreaking pain only they could express, they answered the question with a yes.
My brother Michael was 32 years old. He had battled heart troubles most of his life. The doctors and nurses all knew him by name and often talked about what a miracle it was that he was "still here". My brother had been off and on the transplant wait list for the majority of his adult life. We were also hopeful, but also always prepared for the worst.
I still remember the day our family got the call. May 20th, at 7 a.m. Julie, the transplant nurse called my brother Michael and asked him how long it would take him to get to the hospital. He told her he could be there in 20 minutes. He called our brother Billy and cried, "I have a heart! They've found me a heart!" Billy then picked Michael up and drove him to the hospital. They like to brag that they got to the hospital in a little under 10 minutes, not 20.
When they got to the hospital Michael was taken directly to the Cardiac Care Unit to be prepped for the transplant. Once checked in, Michael noticed his best friend Alvin. Alvin was receiving his Last Rites. His family had gathered and were spending what was presumed their final moments together. Alvin was also waiting for a heart transplant.
For years the two had gone back and forth as Priority One and Priority Two on the transplant list. They were same blood type, but different in stature and age. Alvin was 28 years my brother's senior.
What happened next is somewhat unbelievable. My brother who had for the most part been a fairly cold, or un-compassionate man told the doctors and hospital staff they he wanted Alvin to have the transplant. He was refusing. He argued that Alvin was a better man than him. Alvin was a better patient. Alvin always listened to every direction the doctors ever gave; Michael had not. In Alvin my brother saw a man with 3 daughters that would never be able to have their father walk them down the alia at their wedding. He saw a kind soul that deserved a second chance at life.
The doctors insisted that the heart wasn't right for Alvin. They tried pleading with my brother, but still he refused. Alvin heard the Michael yelling at the doctors, he pushed his call button and asked for Dr. Ensley to please bring him to Michael. In a desk chair with no monitors attached Dr. Ensley and Alvin made their way to my brother's room. Alvin leading with Michael. He begged him to have faith that this was the heart for HIM!
As families we gathered together to pray and it was then that my brother felt at peace with the transplant. The doctors asked my brother one last time if he would proceed with the transplant, holding Alvin's hand my brother said yes. My brother was then wheeled to the O.R. where they began the transplant.
Alvin's family decided to wait with us during the transplant operation. They had joined us in the waiting room, and about two hours into the operation a doctor came in and asked to see them in the consultation room. We all thought the worst. Alvin's wife asked if we would join them so they weren't alone for the news. We did.
It wasn't the worst. It was in fact the best news ever! For the first time in hospital history a second heart of the same blood type had been found and was on its way now for Alvin. Yes, you read that correctly. The had found a transplant match for Alvin!
Our families will forever be grateful to the miracles God gave us. The answered prayers for both families. We will never be able to say thank you enough to Nathan's family or to Alvin's donor's family. What we can do though, is honor them. And, we honor them by educating others about the life saving gift of Organ and Tissue Donations, and by sharing our stories.
My brother is 10 years "clean" meaning no rejection. He has since married and is now the proud daddy to a beautiful little girl. He has turned his life around completely. It's as if his new heart not only gave him a second chance at life, it also gave him a new amount of love to share. When I hug my brother and I hear his heartbeat I think of Nathan. Nathan's memory will forever live on because his parent's made the choice to give life in his death.
So, I ask this of you today, for Nathan, for his family, for my brother and his, for Alvin, his donor's family and for all of those who are currently waiting, please consider being an Organ and Tissue Donor. Give life.
And, if you pray, say a little prayer for the donors’ families. For while we celebrate the gifts they give, they mourn.
A young man, Nathan, had just passed away and in the midst of his parent's grieving they were asked if they would consider donating their son's organs and tissue, so that others may have a chance to live.
I don't know how many of you are currently Organ and Tissues donors, and I don't know how many of you are parents but, I do know that for me, that would have been a tough question to hear let alone answer.
However, for Nathan's parents they knew what they wanted for their son's memory. They wanted him to always be remembered. They wanted no one to forget the lively, intelligent young man he was. So, although losing their son was a heartbreaking pain only they could express, they answered the question with a yes.
My brother Michael was 32 years old. He had battled heart troubles most of his life. The doctors and nurses all knew him by name and often talked about what a miracle it was that he was "still here". My brother had been off and on the transplant wait list for the majority of his adult life. We were also hopeful, but also always prepared for the worst.
I still remember the day our family got the call. May 20th, at 7 a.m. Julie, the transplant nurse called my brother Michael and asked him how long it would take him to get to the hospital. He told her he could be there in 20 minutes. He called our brother Billy and cried, "I have a heart! They've found me a heart!" Billy then picked Michael up and drove him to the hospital. They like to brag that they got to the hospital in a little under 10 minutes, not 20.
When they got to the hospital Michael was taken directly to the Cardiac Care Unit to be prepped for the transplant. Once checked in, Michael noticed his best friend Alvin. Alvin was receiving his Last Rites. His family had gathered and were spending what was presumed their final moments together. Alvin was also waiting for a heart transplant.
For years the two had gone back and forth as Priority One and Priority Two on the transplant list. They were same blood type, but different in stature and age. Alvin was 28 years my brother's senior.
What happened next is somewhat unbelievable. My brother who had for the most part been a fairly cold, or un-compassionate man told the doctors and hospital staff they he wanted Alvin to have the transplant. He was refusing. He argued that Alvin was a better man than him. Alvin was a better patient. Alvin always listened to every direction the doctors ever gave; Michael had not. In Alvin my brother saw a man with 3 daughters that would never be able to have their father walk them down the alia at their wedding. He saw a kind soul that deserved a second chance at life.
The doctors insisted that the heart wasn't right for Alvin. They tried pleading with my brother, but still he refused. Alvin heard the Michael yelling at the doctors, he pushed his call button and asked for Dr. Ensley to please bring him to Michael. In a desk chair with no monitors attached Dr. Ensley and Alvin made their way to my brother's room. Alvin leading with Michael. He begged him to have faith that this was the heart for HIM!
As families we gathered together to pray and it was then that my brother felt at peace with the transplant. The doctors asked my brother one last time if he would proceed with the transplant, holding Alvin's hand my brother said yes. My brother was then wheeled to the O.R. where they began the transplant.
Alvin's family decided to wait with us during the transplant operation. They had joined us in the waiting room, and about two hours into the operation a doctor came in and asked to see them in the consultation room. We all thought the worst. Alvin's wife asked if we would join them so they weren't alone for the news. We did.
It wasn't the worst. It was in fact the best news ever! For the first time in hospital history a second heart of the same blood type had been found and was on its way now for Alvin. Yes, you read that correctly. The had found a transplant match for Alvin!
Our families will forever be grateful to the miracles God gave us. The answered prayers for both families. We will never be able to say thank you enough to Nathan's family or to Alvin's donor's family. What we can do though, is honor them. And, we honor them by educating others about the life saving gift of Organ and Tissue Donations, and by sharing our stories.
My brother is 10 years "clean" meaning no rejection. He has since married and is now the proud daddy to a beautiful little girl. He has turned his life around completely. It's as if his new heart not only gave him a second chance at life, it also gave him a new amount of love to share. When I hug my brother and I hear his heartbeat I think of Nathan. Nathan's memory will forever live on because his parent's made the choice to give life in his death.
So, I ask this of you today, for Nathan, for his family, for my brother and his, for Alvin, his donor's family and for all of those who are currently waiting, please consider being an Organ and Tissue Donor. Give life.
And, if you pray, say a little prayer for the donors’ families. For while we celebrate the gifts they give, they mourn.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Look For The Helpers
There is really no easy way to start a column like this. How do we open a conversation about tragedy easily?
Some of you may know I am a transplanted Arkansan; born and raised in Oklahoma. I still consider Oklahoma my home. I probably always will.
The tornadoes that have devastated my “home” are nothing short of heart wrenching. Lives have been forever changed.
As I write this some families are celebrating the safe return of their loved ones, some are still waiting to know and all of us are grieving. Right now my home state is shattered, but we will be okay. We will always be okay. Thats just what Oklahoma does.
There is a fairly popular quote from Fred Rogers that is often highlighted in times like these. It reads: “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”"
Most of us are already thinking about the basic needs that the residents of Oklahoma no longer have i.e. food, clothing, shelter, diapers etc. I would suggest we hold off on clothing drives or food drives for now. They’ll let us know when they are ready to accept things like that. There isn’t even a structure to house the donated items as of yet.
How do we help in the mean time? What do we need to do to be “the helpers”?
I would ask that you all consider donating blood. And, if you are able, find a reputable charity like the Red Cross or the Salvation Army and make a monetary donation. You can donate to the Salvation Army by texting STORM to 80888. Doing this will add a $10 charge to your cell phone bill, and give a $10 donation to them. You can also visit donate.salvationarmyusa.org to make a donation. If you would like to donate to the Red Cross you can do it the same way via text by sending REDCROSS to 90999 or by visiting redcross.org/ok/oklahoma-city. The United Way of Central Oklahoma also has a disaster relief fund set up and you can donate to it by visiting their website unitedwayokc.org.
If you’re not able to donate in any of the fore mentioned ways, could I ask you a favor? Could you give every Oklahoman a moment of your time and pray for them, all of them.
Governor Brad Henry once said “something called 'the ‘Oklahoma Standard' became known throughout the world. It means resilience in the face of adversity. It means a strength and compassion that will not be defeated.”
Resilience is woven deeply into the fabric of Oklahoma. Throw us an obstacle, and we grow stronger. My heart aches for Oklahoma. You’re in my daily thoughts and prayers.
Some of you may know I am a transplanted Arkansan; born and raised in Oklahoma. I still consider Oklahoma my home. I probably always will.
The tornadoes that have devastated my “home” are nothing short of heart wrenching. Lives have been forever changed.
As I write this some families are celebrating the safe return of their loved ones, some are still waiting to know and all of us are grieving. Right now my home state is shattered, but we will be okay. We will always be okay. Thats just what Oklahoma does.
There is a fairly popular quote from Fred Rogers that is often highlighted in times like these. It reads: “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”"
Most of us are already thinking about the basic needs that the residents of Oklahoma no longer have i.e. food, clothing, shelter, diapers etc. I would suggest we hold off on clothing drives or food drives for now. They’ll let us know when they are ready to accept things like that. There isn’t even a structure to house the donated items as of yet.
How do we help in the mean time? What do we need to do to be “the helpers”?
I would ask that you all consider donating blood. And, if you are able, find a reputable charity like the Red Cross or the Salvation Army and make a monetary donation. You can donate to the Salvation Army by texting STORM to 80888. Doing this will add a $10 charge to your cell phone bill, and give a $10 donation to them. You can also visit donate.salvationarmyusa.org to make a donation. If you would like to donate to the Red Cross you can do it the same way via text by sending REDCROSS to 90999 or by visiting redcross.org/ok/oklahoma-city. The United Way of Central Oklahoma also has a disaster relief fund set up and you can donate to it by visiting their website unitedwayokc.org.
If you’re not able to donate in any of the fore mentioned ways, could I ask you a favor? Could you give every Oklahoman a moment of your time and pray for them, all of them.
Governor Brad Henry once said “something called 'the ‘Oklahoma Standard' became known throughout the world. It means resilience in the face of adversity. It means a strength and compassion that will not be defeated.”
Resilience is woven deeply into the fabric of Oklahoma. Throw us an obstacle, and we grow stronger. My heart aches for Oklahoma. You’re in my daily thoughts and prayers.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Hiding In My Closet Crying
Prom has come and gone, and with no incidents thank goodness.
It’s a huge weight off knowing our kids all made it home safe and sound.
With the school year fastly wrapping up, we now have to start preparing ourselves for graduation.
I don’t think it matters much if you have a senior graduating or a kindergartener graduating, they’re still your baby and it’s still harder than any of us would like to admit.
When we aren’t hiding in our closet crying over our babies growing up and rational thoughts return we should all take advantage of the opportunity to celebrate that comes with a graduation.
Now is a chance to pat yourself on the back for a job well done; you and your graduate have made it through another year.
Plus, end of the year field trips are only going to keep us busy for so long. Family and friends are much better than that.
I want to share a recipe that’s good for any graduation party; be it in the backyard or a rented banquet hall.
Green Grape Dessert Salad
You’re going to need:
4 pounds of seedless green grapes
1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese
1 (8 oz) container of sour cream
1/2 cup of white sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
4 oz chopped pecans
2 tablespoons of brown sugar
First things first, you want to wash and dry the grapes.
Now, in a large bowl you want to mix together the cream cheese, the sour cream, the sugar, and the vanilla.
Once you have that mixed together add in your grapes and stir till everything is evenly distributed.
Next you just sprinkle in the brown sugar and the pecans and mix it a little more.
I like to serve mine in a bowl other than what I mixed it together in, but you don’t have to.
If you do want to serve it in another dish now is the time to move it over and then let it chill for a little while before serving.
So, there you have it; an easy but crowd pleaseing recipe that still allows us time to cry in the closet.
It’s a huge weight off knowing our kids all made it home safe and sound.
With the school year fastly wrapping up, we now have to start preparing ourselves for graduation.
I don’t think it matters much if you have a senior graduating or a kindergartener graduating, they’re still your baby and it’s still harder than any of us would like to admit.
When we aren’t hiding in our closet crying over our babies growing up and rational thoughts return we should all take advantage of the opportunity to celebrate that comes with a graduation.
Now is a chance to pat yourself on the back for a job well done; you and your graduate have made it through another year.
Plus, end of the year field trips are only going to keep us busy for so long. Family and friends are much better than that.
I want to share a recipe that’s good for any graduation party; be it in the backyard or a rented banquet hall.
Green Grape Dessert Salad
You’re going to need:
4 pounds of seedless green grapes
1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese
1 (8 oz) container of sour cream
1/2 cup of white sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
4 oz chopped pecans
2 tablespoons of brown sugar
First things first, you want to wash and dry the grapes.
Now, in a large bowl you want to mix together the cream cheese, the sour cream, the sugar, and the vanilla.
Once you have that mixed together add in your grapes and stir till everything is evenly distributed.
Next you just sprinkle in the brown sugar and the pecans and mix it a little more.
I like to serve mine in a bowl other than what I mixed it together in, but you don’t have to.
If you do want to serve it in another dish now is the time to move it over and then let it chill for a little while before serving.
So, there you have it; an easy but crowd pleaseing recipe that still allows us time to cry in the closet.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Happy Birthday Boy 1.
Six years ago this month I was laying in a hospital bed praying with everything in me to just make it through another day, another week of what had been a horribly scary pregnancy.
Things changed on April 10th. That day, my doctor decided things were getting a little too risky and that although still 4 weeks early it was better for everyone to go ahead and deliver.
After many tears, phone calls, prayers, and two units of blood I was taken to the O.R. In what seems like only minutes later, I was kissing the head of my sweet baby boy.
He was here.
He had all ten fingers and all ten toes.
He was early, but for the most he was okay, just the expected breathing complications.
He was taken to the NICU where he could be given oxygen and the monitored care he needed. We expected an NICU length of at least 3 weeks, but even as a newborn he had his own way of doing things. After a terrifying Code Blue call, and an emergency baptism with our family priest things started getting better. We left the NICU after only 17 days with a note from the doctor declaring him to be “a healthy, hard-headed handful”.
I’m happy to say in the last six years that doctor’s report hasn’t changed much. My sweet boy is very much still healthy, hard-headed, and man is he a handful.
In honor of this new milestone, I’d like to share one of his favorite things to make.
It’s “semi-homemade” because sometimes that’s just how we roll in the non Betty Crocker or Martha Stewart world.
Dirt Cake
You’re going to need
1/3 cup butter or margarine
1 8oz container of Cool Whip
1 package of Oreo cookies
2 packages of vanilla pudding mix
1 8oz container of cream cheese
1 cup powered sugar
3.5 cups of milk
Start by creaming the butter, cream cheese, and powered sugar together.
Now, in a separate bowl whisk the pudding mix, milk, and cool whip together.
Once that’s whisked together well, combine it with the cream cheese mixture.
This is his favorite part: Crush the Oreos. It doesnt matter if you do it in a bowl with a cup, or in a ziplock bag with the a rolling pin just as long as you get them crushed up.
Now all that’s left to do is put it together.
You can either mix the cookies in with the cream cheese pudding mix and serve it in a pail like my kid likes to do, or if you want to be a little “smancy” as he says it, you can make layers in a glass cake pan or serving bowl. To do that you just rotate a layer of crushed cookie and a layer of cream cheese pudding mix, and repeat.
This dessert you have to store in the refrigerator.
So, here’s to my baby's latest trip around the sun. Here’s to the doctors and the nurses that keep things calm and have steady hands in times of crisis, and to the teachers that love my boy in spite of his hard-headed ways.
Happy Birthday baby, I love you to the moon and back!
Now, dig in!
Things changed on April 10th. That day, my doctor decided things were getting a little too risky and that although still 4 weeks early it was better for everyone to go ahead and deliver.
After many tears, phone calls, prayers, and two units of blood I was taken to the O.R. In what seems like only minutes later, I was kissing the head of my sweet baby boy.
He was here.
He had all ten fingers and all ten toes.
He was early, but for the most he was okay, just the expected breathing complications.
He was taken to the NICU where he could be given oxygen and the monitored care he needed. We expected an NICU length of at least 3 weeks, but even as a newborn he had his own way of doing things. After a terrifying Code Blue call, and an emergency baptism with our family priest things started getting better. We left the NICU after only 17 days with a note from the doctor declaring him to be “a healthy, hard-headed handful”.
I’m happy to say in the last six years that doctor’s report hasn’t changed much. My sweet boy is very much still healthy, hard-headed, and man is he a handful.
In honor of this new milestone, I’d like to share one of his favorite things to make.
It’s “semi-homemade” because sometimes that’s just how we roll in the non Betty Crocker or Martha Stewart world.
Dirt Cake
You’re going to need
1/3 cup butter or margarine
1 8oz container of Cool Whip
1 package of Oreo cookies
2 packages of vanilla pudding mix
1 8oz container of cream cheese
1 cup powered sugar
3.5 cups of milk
Start by creaming the butter, cream cheese, and powered sugar together.
Now, in a separate bowl whisk the pudding mix, milk, and cool whip together.
Once that’s whisked together well, combine it with the cream cheese mixture.
This is his favorite part: Crush the Oreos. It doesnt matter if you do it in a bowl with a cup, or in a ziplock bag with the a rolling pin just as long as you get them crushed up.
Now all that’s left to do is put it together.
You can either mix the cookies in with the cream cheese pudding mix and serve it in a pail like my kid likes to do, or if you want to be a little “smancy” as he says it, you can make layers in a glass cake pan or serving bowl. To do that you just rotate a layer of crushed cookie and a layer of cream cheese pudding mix, and repeat.
This dessert you have to store in the refrigerator.
So, here’s to my baby's latest trip around the sun. Here’s to the doctors and the nurses that keep things calm and have steady hands in times of crisis, and to the teachers that love my boy in spite of his hard-headed ways.
Happy Birthday baby, I love you to the moon and back!
Now, dig in!
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
An Easter Side-Dish Or Dessert
Can you believe that Easter Sunday is just around the corner?
I can’t hardly wrap my head around it already being here, even with the daily reminders I get from the kids.
This will be the first Easter that Boy 2 is really big enough to enjoy decorating eggs and I can’t wait to see what he comes up with.
I’m sure you know by now that my kids are pretty competitive and they make everything, even egg decorating, into a challenge. They always try to out do what they did the year before. I think it’s going to be pretty hard to top the Harry Potter eggs that were made last year. Regardless of what they come up with I’ll love it, and they’ll love doing it. And, that’s all that really matters.
When I think of Easter Sunday, I think of three things: Easter Service, Egg Hunts, and Church Potlucks.
So, I’d like to share an old but favorite recipe for an Easter side dish or dessert, depending on how you see it, that’s perfect for a church potluck or your kitchen table.
Watergate Salad
You’re going to need:
1 can (20 oz.) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
1 pkg. (3.4 oz) Pistachio flavored instant pudding
1 cup of mini marshmallows
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 1/2 cups of cool whip
Start by combining the pineapple (with juice), pistachio pudding, marshmallows. and pecans together in a large mixing bowl.
Once that is all mixed together really well you just stir in the cool whip.
Now comes the hard part, you need to let it refrigerate at least one hour before serving.
If you’re as impatient as me I suggest you grab an ooey gooey Cadbury egg to hold you over while the salad sets.
Trust me, it’s worth the wait.
I can’t hardly wrap my head around it already being here, even with the daily reminders I get from the kids.
This will be the first Easter that Boy 2 is really big enough to enjoy decorating eggs and I can’t wait to see what he comes up with.
I’m sure you know by now that my kids are pretty competitive and they make everything, even egg decorating, into a challenge. They always try to out do what they did the year before. I think it’s going to be pretty hard to top the Harry Potter eggs that were made last year. Regardless of what they come up with I’ll love it, and they’ll love doing it. And, that’s all that really matters.
When I think of Easter Sunday, I think of three things: Easter Service, Egg Hunts, and Church Potlucks.
So, I’d like to share an old but favorite recipe for an Easter side dish or dessert, depending on how you see it, that’s perfect for a church potluck or your kitchen table.
Watergate Salad
You’re going to need:
1 can (20 oz.) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
1 pkg. (3.4 oz) Pistachio flavored instant pudding
1 cup of mini marshmallows
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 1/2 cups of cool whip
Start by combining the pineapple (with juice), pistachio pudding, marshmallows. and pecans together in a large mixing bowl.
Once that is all mixed together really well you just stir in the cool whip.
Now comes the hard part, you need to let it refrigerate at least one hour before serving.
If you’re as impatient as me I suggest you grab an ooey gooey Cadbury egg to hold you over while the salad sets.
Trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Thursday, January 31, 2013
New Year, New Job, New Beginings and a New Recipe
Man what a year so far!
I started a new job. It’s been great so far. It’s always intimidating to be the newbie, but they’ve made me feel pretty welcomed. In addition to my new job and the new hours, Sam started daycare. That’s been a bit of a challenge. Well, for me anyways. He’s in good hands and he really likes playing with kids his age. So, I just keep reminding myself that he loves it.
With the new job came new co-workers, and with new co-workers came new food request. Not recipes, they wanted the actual food. Since I can't really keep samples on the ready, I figured I'd just see if there was a way I could help them help themselves. You see, if I can give them some more recipes, especially ones for the Crock-Pot, then there is no reason why they can't feed themselves.
This is easy, inexpensive and perfect for football; you can double or triple the recipe for more servings. Plus, it’s Weight Watchers friendly. The filling alone is 4 points plus, with the bun and cheese it comes to 8. It’s a filling complete meal; perfect for lunch or dinner.
It takes about 10 minutes of prep, but 10 minutes of prep to avoid an hour at the stove later is all right by me.
You’re going to need
1 lb Italian turkey sausage, removed from casing
1/2 cup chopped onions
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped in 1/2-inch pieces
1 green bell pepper, chopped in 1/2-inch pieces
1 1/3 cups crushed tomatoes
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
salt and pepper, to taste
To serve it try
6 whole wheat potato rolls
6 slices reduced fat provolone
And, you may want to top with baby spinach
Start by cooking your sausage over medium to high heat.
While it’s cooking, roughly 5 to 6 minutes, you want to break the sausage into smaller bits; kind of what you would do when cooking ground beef or turkey.
Now, add in the onions and garlic, and cook another 2 minutes.
After that, you are ready to transfer it to the Crock-Pot and add the bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, rosemary and pepper.
Cover and cook on low 4 hours.
Just make your sandwiches and you are ready to go.
I started a new job. It’s been great so far. It’s always intimidating to be the newbie, but they’ve made me feel pretty welcomed. In addition to my new job and the new hours, Sam started daycare. That’s been a bit of a challenge. Well, for me anyways. He’s in good hands and he really likes playing with kids his age. So, I just keep reminding myself that he loves it.
With the new job came new co-workers, and with new co-workers came new food request. Not recipes, they wanted the actual food. Since I can't really keep samples on the ready, I figured I'd just see if there was a way I could help them help themselves. You see, if I can give them some more recipes, especially ones for the Crock-Pot, then there is no reason why they can't feed themselves.
This is easy, inexpensive and perfect for football; you can double or triple the recipe for more servings. Plus, it’s Weight Watchers friendly. The filling alone is 4 points plus, with the bun and cheese it comes to 8. It’s a filling complete meal; perfect for lunch or dinner.
It takes about 10 minutes of prep, but 10 minutes of prep to avoid an hour at the stove later is all right by me.
You’re going to need
1 lb Italian turkey sausage, removed from casing
1/2 cup chopped onions
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped in 1/2-inch pieces
1 green bell pepper, chopped in 1/2-inch pieces
1 1/3 cups crushed tomatoes
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
salt and pepper, to taste
To serve it try
6 whole wheat potato rolls
6 slices reduced fat provolone
And, you may want to top with baby spinach
Start by cooking your sausage over medium to high heat.
While it’s cooking, roughly 5 to 6 minutes, you want to break the sausage into smaller bits; kind of what you would do when cooking ground beef or turkey.
Now, add in the onions and garlic, and cook another 2 minutes.
After that, you are ready to transfer it to the Crock-Pot and add the bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, rosemary and pepper.
Cover and cook on low 4 hours.
Just make your sandwiches and you are ready to go.
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Silence Is Golden...
Silence is golden.
Unless you have kids..
It was a normal Saturday morning at our house. I was cleaning up the kitchen after breakfast. It was quiet.
It was quiet.
That should have been clue number 1.
As I loaded the dishwasher, I thought to myself "man the kids are being so good".
That should have been clue number 2.
I continued cleaning still amazed that my children were playing so well together.
Playing well together?
And then it hit me. Like all moms when the quietness, and the good behavior, and the playing well together clicked in my mind I know something was up.
I ventured to the boys room opened the door to find a homemade zip-line.
That's right folks, my kids had worked together to build their very own zip-line.
IN THEIR ROOM!
They did it using only a jump rope, the bunk bed, and a single door knob.
Pretty cool right?
If the 9 year old and the 5 year old hadn't been placing their younger brother in an Easter basket for the ride down I might be a little more proud.
Unless you have kids..
It was a normal Saturday morning at our house. I was cleaning up the kitchen after breakfast. It was quiet.
It was quiet.
That should have been clue number 1.
As I loaded the dishwasher, I thought to myself "man the kids are being so good".
That should have been clue number 2.
I continued cleaning still amazed that my children were playing so well together.
Playing well together?
And then it hit me. Like all moms when the quietness, and the good behavior, and the playing well together clicked in my mind I know something was up.
I ventured to the boys room opened the door to find a homemade zip-line.
That's right folks, my kids had worked together to build their very own zip-line.
IN THEIR ROOM!
They did it using only a jump rope, the bunk bed, and a single door knob.
Pretty cool right?
If the 9 year old and the 5 year old hadn't been placing their younger brother in an Easter basket for the ride down I might be a little more proud.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Thanksgiving Tips And Crowd Pleasing Pumpkin Pie
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
Now the holidays have officially kicked-off. And, that makes
me oh so happy. Cooking for the holidays is one of my most favorite things to
do.
I figured I’d share a few little tips I’ve found
over the years while preparing my family’s Thanksgiving dinner.
Turkey Tip Number 1. Use an oven bag. Who ever invented
those things was a genius!
Turkey Tip Number 2. When you’re readying your Turkey for
placement in the bag, rub a packet of dried Italian Salad Dressing mix on the
bird. The flavor is amazing! You know I wouldn’t lie to you.
Cranberry Sauce Tip Number 1. Forget the canned jelly stuff.
Make it yourself. It’s super easy and so much better. Just follow the
directions on the bag of cranberries.
Cranberry Sauce Tip Number 2. When you’re making the
cranberry sauce try adding in a capful (or two) of coconut rum. The alcohol
content will cook away and the coconut brings the cranberry flavor to a whole
new level.
Potato Tip Number 1. If mashed potatoes are a must, try
making a “loaded” style. Mix in chive flavored cream cheese, or sour cream, with
some shredded cheese, and maybe some green onions.
Potato Tip Number 2. If mashed potatoes aren’t a half to,
change it up a bit and make a potato casserole.
I don’t really have any special tips for Green Bean
Casserole, just make it. It has to be on our Thanksgiving table.
Sweet Potatoes Tip Number 1. Try adding a layer of
marshmallows between the layers of sweet potatoes. They make it even more gooey
and delicious.
Sweet Potatoes Tip Number 2. When you want to brown the
marshmallows on top, try broiling on low.
The most important tip I could share is to not stress. Enjoy
yourself. If preparing the meal feels too much like a daunting task then there
is no point.
Take short cuts where you can and get your family involved.
Thanksgiving is meant to gather families and neighbors
together so we can give thanks for all the good we have and the bad. The bad?
Yes, the bad teaches us to appreciate the good and be grateful.
On to the recipe.
Ever since I was a little girl I’ve looked forward to
November, not just because it’s my birthday month either. I looked forward to
pumpkin pie.
It’s not thanksgiving without pumpkin pie, right? So here it is
Perfectly Easy But Still Crowd Pleasing Pumpkin Pie
You’re going to need
1 (15 oz.) can pumpkin (about 2 cups)
1 (14 oz.) can Eagle Brand® Sweetened Condensed Milk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
Start by heating your oven to 425°F.
In a medium mixing bowl you want to whisk the pumpkin, the
sweetened condensed milk, the eggs, the spices and salt together until it’s all
smooth.Now poor the pumpkin mixture into the pie crust.
You want to bake it for 15 minutes (at 425), and then reduce
the oven temperature to 350°F; now bake an additional 35 to 40 minutes or until
a knife inserted 1-inch from crust comes out clean.
Cool, and garnish as desired. We like cool-whip around here.
This year, as you gather around tables, take a moment and
remember all the good and give thanks. Remember your neighbors, family and
friends no longer with us, teachers, law enforcement, fire fighters, and other
public servants.
Remember our troops.
And, if you have a little extra food left over, maybe make a
plate and take it to the gas station, or store employee that’s stuck at work
instead of being home with their family.
Best Wishes for the Happiest Thanksgiving Holiday.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
I'm Thankful! And Soon, You'll Be Thankful Too
Back in August I attended the Arkansas Women Bloggers Unplugged Conference. Myself and 70+ women joined together for a weekend of fun, laughter, learning and boots!!
When I was planning to attended the conference I had no idea what to expect. I knew I was going to be 3 hours from home with 70+ women, most of which I had never met, and we were staying in a state park.
Sounds fun right? (It was a freaking blast!)
I went in fearing the unknown but, I didn't go alone. I manged to drag my girl Heather along for the ride and together we dragged another Shannon along with us.
Our road trip there was awesome!
We sang, we talked about how Okies drive 90+ mph till we hit a curve then drop to 25 mph, and we debated the oxford comma.
We also had some really nasty McDonald's because we waited to long to stop and eat and ran out of choices.
The AWB hosted several "twitter parties' to give each of us attending a way to connect with each other prior to packing up and heading down.
During one of the twitter parties Country Outfitter joined us.
That was a dang good twitter party!
By the end of it, I had a sponsor paying my way, an invitation to pick out any pair of boots I wanted, up to $150 value), and a gift for you!
Now, I know you're all distracted by the whole "gift for you" and don't worry I'll get to that.
First though, let me tell you about these BOOTS! Hey it is my blog ;) I should get to brag a little.
Here is where the thankful part comes in.
While I was waiting with my daughter in the hospital some of the lovely women I've met through AWB were calling, texting, emailing etc. They were asking what they could do to make things easier.
They were sending positive vibes, and lots of prayers. They offered me dinner, or laundry, entertainment, or a shoulder to cry on. They just wanted us to know we weren't alone.
They cared!
Today as I type this I want to say I am thankful for my daughter's recovery.
I am thankful for my sweet Daniel's support.
I am thankful for Heather, Jasmine, Stephanie, Logan(who isn't a woman, but is a great Arkansas blogger), Kim, and so many others.
I am also thankful for good boots! They make the days easier sometimes.
Last but not least, I am thankful for you!
And, thanks to Country Outfitter you can be thankful for good boots too! (Yep, here's where that gift for you comes in.)
Country Outfitter would like to give one of my readers the gift of good boots (up to $150 value).
And, we've made it pretty simple for you.
When I was planning to attended the conference I had no idea what to expect. I knew I was going to be 3 hours from home with 70+ women, most of which I had never met, and we were staying in a state park.
Sounds fun right? (It was a freaking blast!)
I went in fearing the unknown but, I didn't go alone. I manged to drag my girl Heather along for the ride and together we dragged another Shannon along with us.
Our road trip there was awesome!
We sang, we talked about how Okies drive 90+ mph till we hit a curve then drop to 25 mph, and we debated the oxford comma.
We also had some really nasty McDonald's because we waited to long to stop and eat and ran out of choices.
Even the register at McDonald's was taunting us.
During one of the twitter parties Country Outfitter joined us.
That was a dang good twitter party!
By the end of it, I had a sponsor paying my way, an invitation to pick out any pair of boots I wanted, up to $150 value), and a gift for you!
Now, I know you're all distracted by the whole "gift for you" and don't worry I'll get to that.
First though, let me tell you about these BOOTS! Hey it is my blog ;) I should get to brag a little.
Look at these beauties!
I LOVE THEM!
I took roughly 2 weeks deciding which pair of boots I wanted. And I couldn't be more pleased!
I picked a pair by Justin. The Justin Women's Burnished Tan Boot to be exact!
They have survived hospital stays, mid terms, and divorce court. (Not mine! I'm a legal secretary, remember.)
Last week my giveaway was suppose to "go live". It didn't.
It didn't because last week I was in the hospital with my baby girl.
She was at her dad's for the weekend and while there she suffered a seizure like episode. We met up at the ER and after 5 hours of worry filled testing we were admitted.
Here is where the thankful part comes in.
While I was waiting with my daughter in the hospital some of the lovely women I've met through AWB were calling, texting, emailing etc. They were asking what they could do to make things easier.
They were sending positive vibes, and lots of prayers. They offered me dinner, or laundry, entertainment, or a shoulder to cry on. They just wanted us to know we weren't alone.
They cared!
Today as I type this I want to say I am thankful for my daughter's recovery.
I am thankful for my sweet Daniel's support.
I am thankful for Heather, Jasmine, Stephanie, Logan(who isn't a woman, but is a great Arkansas blogger), Kim, and so many others.
I am also thankful for good boots! They make the days easier sometimes.
Last but not least, I am thankful for you!
And, thanks to Country Outfitter you can be thankful for good boots too! (Yep, here's where that gift for you comes in.)
Country Outfitter would like to give one of my readers the gift of good boots (up to $150 value).
And, we've made it pretty simple for you.
1. Click HERE and submit your email address. (You may receive additional emails or offers from Country Outfitter it's totally worth it though! )
2. Leave a comment here on the blog telling me what you're thankful for and that you've submitted your email address.
A random winner will be selected in two weeks, November 29, 2012, after 9 p.m.
(DISCLOSURE: Country Outfitter, a retailer of Justin's Women's Boots gave me these Justin Women's Burnished Tan Boot to review, and as you can tell, I love them!)
Thursday, October 25, 2012
And The Winner Is...
We go old school around here.
First, I assigned a number to each entry and then I wrote each number on a piece of paper.
Like this
See, 1 through 7.
Next I put the numbers in an ice cream bowl.
Like this
See, all there.
Then I called my oh so adorable assistant over and put him to work.
He had to take a little look
Then I told him to pick one.
Seriously, how cute is he?
He's got one.
And the winner is
Number 1!
Congratulations Gina! Email me your contact information please!
A big thanks to every one that came by and entered, and a HUGE thanks to Thearpon Skin Health for the gift!!
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Skin Is In, Part 2. A Giveaway For You!
So a week or so ago I told you all about my love of all things Therapon Skin Health related and especially the Theraderm Clinical Skin Care, Skin Renewal System.
This Stuff is GOLD
Seriously it's amazing!
So anyways, after I told you all about the company I decided to "man-up" and give you photographic proof of the change.
I showed you my before and after.
Take a look at my early morning make up free
face. (Times 2)
The before is on the left, the after is on the
right.
And, that's just two weeks in.
I haven't edited either picture in any way.
If I had, I'd have done something about my
unruly eyebrow.
See the difference?
Noticeably less redness on the right.
After my post went live I shared my results with Thearpon Skin Health on twitter.
Christina messaged me and offered to give one of my followers (US Resident Only) a complete Skin Renewal System so that someone else could share in the experience of clear healthy skin with me.
Knowing what it feels like to suffer with/from rosacea, I jumped at the chance to help someone else.
So, how do you win?
If you are a US Resident than leave a comment telling me what issues you have with your skin.
Hey, I shared mine it's only fair you share yours. And, you never know we might be able to get some pending skin questions answered for you.
Also, I think it's only fair to ask that you share some LOVE with a "Like" to the Theraderm ClinicalSkin Health by Therapon facebook page.
While you're there you can find my Facebook page as well.
I'll be doing this drawing the old fashion way, ya knowing pulling a name/number at random, so please know that only your first comment will count as an entry.
Feel free to share this with your friends and family, maybe you can steal it from them if they win.
The drawing will be in one week on Wednesday October 24, 2012. That gives you time to enter and have your friends and family enter to. Plus, it gives me time to finish mid-terms.
That's it. Let's Recap.
Us Residents Only
Leave a Comment Telling Me About Your Skin Issues,
Show Some LOVE on Facebook.
Drawing Will Be Held on 10/24/12
Monday, October 15, 2012
Bullying, The Truth Behind This Momma Wanting to Kick Some Ass (because that makes sense)
“I shall remember forever and will never
forget.
Monday: my money was taken.
Tuesday:
names called.
Wednesday:
my uniform torn.
Thursday:
my body pouring with blood.
Friday:
it’s ended
Saturday:
freedom”
For bad behavior
to be considered bullying, it has to have two ingredients, says Rana Sampson.
She wrote a pamphlet called Bullying in Schools for the U.S. Department of
Justice. The first ingredient is repeated harmful acts against the same person.
The second is an imbalance of power. That means one person (the bully) must
have or believe that he or she has more power than the victim has. (Power can
be physical strength, or it can be a type of mental control.)
Each bullying act, Sampson says, usually includes
* a victim,
* the ringleader bully
* assistant bullies (they join in),
* reinforcers (they laugh with or encourage the bully)
* bystanders (they don't take a side)
* and defenders
(they step in and stick up for or comfort the victim). (Hunt, P., & Nevins, D)
(Cutie Pie, isn't he?)
Now I'd like to show you what bullying can do.
My son, at the age of 4, was a victim of school bullying.
After the bullying became physical we had no choice but to withdraw him from
the program. Luckily for us, the damage has been fairly minimal. He isn’t
dealing with any real emotional issues and everything but one scar has healed
and disappeared.
Bullying is
real. It’s not something that just happens to everyone else. It can happen
anywhere.
If you check
out the website Make Beats Not Beat Downs, you can find information about the
different types of bullying.
“Bullying can
take many forms but it usually includes the following types of behavior:
• Physical – hitting, kicking, pinching, punching,
scratching, spitting or any other form of physical attack. Damage to or taking
someone else’s belongings may also constitute as physical bullying.
• Verbal – name calling, insulting, making racist, sexist
or homophobic jokes, remarks or teasing, using sexually suggestive or abusive
language, offensive remarks
• Indirect – spreading nasty stories about someone, exclusion
from social groups, being made the subject of malicious rumors, sending abusive
mail, and email and text messages (cyber bullying).
• Cyber Bullying - any type of bullying that is carried
out by electronic medium.” (http://www.makebeatsnotbeatdowns.org/facts_new.html)
Knowing what
bullying is, the different ways it can occur and the seriousness of the issue;
how do we prevent it? Can we prevent? Most people say the key to bullying prevention
is awareness. You know that old saying “knowledge is power”, bullying
prevention is a great example of that at work.
Be aware of your surroundings. No, not the physical surroundings, the
people you are surround with. Familiarize yourself with their behaviors their
moods. Be aware of those things so you can and will notice any changes. Read
the clues. Are they having any frequent headaches or stomach aches, feeling
sick or faking illness? Have there been any changes in eating habits, like
suddenly skipping meals or binge eating? Are they having difficulty sleeping or
frequent nightmares? Are there grades declining? Is there a loss of interest in
schoolwork, or not wanting to go to school? Maybe there is a sudden loss of
friends or avoidance of social situations or feelings of helplessness or
decreased self-esteem. These are all clues that something like bullying is
going on.
Finally, no
matter how tempted you are, don’t confront the bully or his parents. Tempers
are likely to flare, which will just make the situation worse. Leave it to the
school or legal authorities.
William Shakespeare wrote,
“All the
world’s a stage,
And all the
men and women merely players.
They have
their exits and their entrances,
And one man in
his time plays many parts, …” (As You Like It, Act 2,
Scn. 7)
“The bully, the bullied, and the bystander are three
characters in a tragic play performed daily in our homes, schools, playgrounds,
and streets.” (Colorose, B.) And, just like the characters in Shakespeare’s
play, the roles we have as characters in life are real and the consequences of
some actions can be deadly.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Skin Is In!
And healthy skin is even better!
Remember last month when I told you I was headed to Pucker Up with the lovely lady bloggers of NWA for the Therapon Skin Health Perfect Lip launch party?
Well when I was there I met Christina. She is amazing and she works for Therapon Skin Health.
Did you know TSH (Therapon Skin Health) was a local company?
Really local.
NWArkansas local.
Springdale.
Seriously! We have had this company in our backyard and I am just now learning about them.
Boo.
So anyways, a week or so after the party I sent Christina a tweet and I asked if they had a product or a combination of products that would be good for people, like me, that suffer with/from rosacea.
And, then I asked about something for teen acne.
Tweet was answered and product was shipped.
I'm in love with this product. I've been using it for 2 weeks and the difference in my skin is great!
Let me clarify, I was NOT paid to write this.
I was NOT asked to.
I just WANTED to because it really is THAT GOOD!
Proof is in the pudding right? Well here goes.
Remember last month when I told you I was headed to Pucker Up with the lovely lady bloggers of NWA for the Therapon Skin Health Perfect Lip launch party?
Well when I was there I met Christina. She is amazing and she works for Therapon Skin Health.
Did you know TSH (Therapon Skin Health) was a local company?
Really local.
NWArkansas local.
Springdale.
Seriously! We have had this company in our backyard and I am just now learning about them.
Boo.
So anyways, a week or so after the party I sent Christina a tweet and I asked if they had a product or a combination of products that would be good for people, like me, that suffer with/from rosacea.
And, then I asked about something for teen acne.
Tweet was answered and product was shipped.
Such Pretty Packaging.
The Goodies Inside The Box
I'm in love with this product. I've been using it for 2 weeks and the difference in my skin is great!
Let me clarify, I was NOT paid to write this.
I was NOT asked to.
I just WANTED to because it really is THAT GOOD!
Proof is in the pudding right? Well here goes.
Take a look at my early morning make up free face. (Times 2)
The before is on the left, the after is on the right. And, that's just two weeks in.
I haven't edited either picture in any way.
If I had, I'd have done something about my unruly eyebrow.
See the difference?
Noticeably less redness on the right.
I'm looking forward to even further reduction in the bright red coloring from my rosacea as I continue to use the products. I'll keep you posted.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Who Wouldn't Like FREE Boots
Hello lovelies!
Hope everyone is enjoying the approaching Fall weather.
Remember a couple weeks ago when I told you about meeting the Oprah of boots at the AWBU conference?
Well... Now it's your turn to meet her.
Kind of.
Ok, maybe you won't really meet her but, I can offer you some extra chances to WIN FREE BOOTS from Country Outfitter!!
It's not quite time for my giveaway :( It's coming I promise.
Lucky for you though, I know some wonderful women, fellow Arkansas Women Bloggers, that are partnering with Country Outfitter and giving a way FREE BOOTS!
Go check them out, enter away, and maybe just maybe we can rock new boots together!
Check out Debbie Arnold and sign up for her giveaway.
Check out Angie and sign up for her giveaway.
Check out Paige and sign up for her giveaway. (This one closes on the 20th.)
Check out Lela and sign up for her giveaway.
There you go, 4 more chances to win. Go. Quick quick.
And, if you win, I should totally have some impute on which boots you pick!
Hope everyone is enjoying the approaching Fall weather.
Remember a couple weeks ago when I told you about meeting the Oprah of boots at the AWBU conference?
Well... Now it's your turn to meet her.
Kind of.
Ok, maybe you won't really meet her but, I can offer you some extra chances to WIN FREE BOOTS from Country Outfitter!!
It's not quite time for my giveaway :( It's coming I promise.
Lucky for you though, I know some wonderful women, fellow Arkansas Women Bloggers, that are partnering with Country Outfitter and giving a way FREE BOOTS!
Go check them out, enter away, and maybe just maybe we can rock new boots together!
Check out Debbie Arnold and sign up for her giveaway.
Check out Angie and sign up for her giveaway.
Check out Paige and sign up for her giveaway. (This one closes on the 20th.)
Check out Lela and sign up for her giveaway.
There you go, 4 more chances to win. Go. Quick quick.
And, if you win, I should totally have some impute on which boots you pick!
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Pucker Up
Yay Saturday! I've been waiting a couple weeks for September the 8th.
I bet you're wondering why, aren't you?
Don't worry, I'm going to tell you.
A couple a weeks ago my friend Stephanie invited me to a NWArk Bloggers Meet-Up and today is the day.
The meet-up is sponsored by Therapon Skin Health.
We all get to try out their BRAND NEW Perfect Lip product, Pucker Up! Plus they're bringing a photographer and we all get NEW HEAD SHOTS!
And, like that alone is enough, there will be SWAG BAGS!
EEK!! I love that swag bags have entered my life. Some of the swag will be from Mrs. Meyers Clean Day, Oh Baby Foods, Country Outfitter, Blessings Unlimited, Junk Headbands, and Piggy Paint.
Wait, I'm not done...
The Moxy Ox is giving away 3 sets of 250 business cards! I'm not sure if you've seen their work but, chances are if you've seen any totally awesome business cards or stickers around here, they were probably designed by them.
Did I tell you that after the meet-up with the head shots, and the swag bags, we then get to go see STOMP at the Walton Arts Center?
Yep, we do!
I bet you're wondering why, aren't you?
Don't worry, I'm going to tell you.
A couple a weeks ago my friend Stephanie invited me to a NWArk Bloggers Meet-Up and today is the day.
The meet-up is sponsored by Therapon Skin Health.
We all get to try out their BRAND NEW Perfect Lip product, Pucker Up! Plus they're bringing a photographer and we all get NEW HEAD SHOTS!
And, like that alone is enough, there will be SWAG BAGS!
EEK!! I love that swag bags have entered my life. Some of the swag will be from Mrs. Meyers Clean Day, Oh Baby Foods, Country Outfitter, Blessings Unlimited, Junk Headbands, and Piggy Paint.
Wait, I'm not done...
The Moxy Ox is giving away 3 sets of 250 business cards! I'm not sure if you've seen their work but, chances are if you've seen any totally awesome business cards or stickers around here, they were probably designed by them.
Did I tell you that after the meet-up with the head shots, and the swag bags, we then get to go see STOMP at the Walton Arts Center?
Yep, we do!
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
I Met Oprah! Well... I Met The Oprah Of Boots!
Well... I met the Oprah of boots!
Actually, I already knew her I just didn't know of her Oprah-ish qualities.
The weekend before last I had the honor of attending the Arkansas Women Bloggers' Unplugged Conference. Much thanks to Country Outfitter for sponsoring me.
Myself and 70+ other bloggers from all over Arkansas gathered at the Ozark Folk Center for a full weekend of fun, learning, and bonding.
Too explain how things happened, or why, or even to sum up the weekend is IMPOSSIBLE! It was great. It was amazing!
It was just AWBU; a once in a lifetime experience really.
So... back to meeting Oprah.
Saturday we all gathered together in preparation of a cookout, a little fiddle playing, some jig dancing, and that AHH Moment only Oprah (or someone LIKE Oprah) could give!
Meet Stephanie, aka the Oprah of boots.
Saturday afternoon she came to the conference stage and said "You get boots, you get boots, YOU GET BOOTS!' (now you see why we call her the Oprah of boots, huh?)
Stephanie works for Acumen Brands, the parent company of Country Outfitter and thanks to them we were all gifted with a pair of boots of our choice (up to $150)!
We were all given a pair of boots to try out, and review.
Stay tuned, my review and a GIVEAWAY for you is coming soon!
Actually, I already knew her I just didn't know of her Oprah-ish qualities.
The weekend before last I had the honor of attending the Arkansas Women Bloggers' Unplugged Conference. Much thanks to Country Outfitter for sponsoring me.
Myself and 70+ other bloggers from all over Arkansas gathered at the Ozark Folk Center for a full weekend of fun, learning, and bonding.
Too explain how things happened, or why, or even to sum up the weekend is IMPOSSIBLE! It was great. It was amazing!
It was just AWBU; a once in a lifetime experience really.
So... back to meeting Oprah.
Saturday we all gathered together in preparation of a cookout, a little fiddle playing, some jig dancing, and that AHH Moment only Oprah (or someone LIKE Oprah) could give!
Meet Stephanie, aka the Oprah of boots.
Saturday afternoon she came to the conference stage and said "You get boots, you get boots, YOU GET BOOTS!' (now you see why we call her the Oprah of boots, huh?)
Stephanie works for Acumen Brands, the parent company of Country Outfitter and thanks to them we were all gifted with a pair of boots of our choice (up to $150)!
We were all given a pair of boots to try out, and review.
I picked these lovelies!
Stay tuned, my review and a GIVEAWAY for you is coming soon!
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Do You See What I See
Well... do you?
Heather and I kidnapped the third Shannon and headed off to Mountain View Arkansas for AWBU conference. (More on that whole kidnapping thing later) And, on our way we stopped at Mickey D's for a late dinner. Kidnapping isn't as easy as it seems so it took a little longer. (Again, more on that later)
While standing in what seemed like the longest MD line EVER, a shaggy looking barely 16 year old boy stepped up to the other register. 'Here," I whispered to Heather and Shannon, "he's going to open this line."
Nope.
He just stood there. Staring at all of us.
After a few minutes I noticed the screen on the register.
Yeah it was saying just what we all were thinking.
That POS was closed!
Heather and I kidnapped the third Shannon and headed off to Mountain View Arkansas for AWBU conference. (More on that whole kidnapping thing later) And, on our way we stopped at Mickey D's for a late dinner. Kidnapping isn't as easy as it seems so it took a little longer. (Again, more on that later)
While standing in what seemed like the longest MD line EVER, a shaggy looking barely 16 year old boy stepped up to the other register. 'Here," I whispered to Heather and Shannon, "he's going to open this line."
Nope.
He just stood there. Staring at all of us.
After a few minutes I noticed the screen on the register.
Yeah it was saying just what we all were thinking.
That POS was closed!
Road Trip to AWBU (Part 1)
This is how my Friday started.
After I got the majority of the kids off to school I dropped The Dad off at work, and headed to Bentonville to pick up my paycheck.
You see, AWBU conference was starting today and I was trying to streamline my preparation. I took The Dad to work because I was carpooling with my BFF Heather in what was planned to be karaoke fest 2012, and we didn't want to leave one of our vehicles parked away from home all weekend.
So anyways, I took the Dad to work and hit I-540 towards Bentonville. It's 9 am and my phone starts ringing. It's my other BFF Shawna. Shawna NEVER calls me in the morning, she has kids and a job, it just doesn't happen, so I of course thought something was wrong. Nothing was wrong, she just wanted to chat. So we did.
I don't know how often you talk to your girlfriends, but when Shawna and I get the chance to speak to each other not text, it's usually a whole lot of OMG and laughing.
We were chatting about nothing really, and Boy 2, the baby, was just singing to himself from the backseat, so I wasn't really paying attention to my surroundings. I told Shawna I was headed to BV to get my check, and then home to pack for AWBU and the next thing I know I'm on the turnpike to Missouri.
MISSOURI!! In case you missed that!
Now that I was lost, I did what all good drivers do, I said "Shawna, hold on I'm lost" and then I turned the radio down.
I did manage to find my way out of Missouri and back into Arkansas. I also managed to remember to pick up my paycheck, eventually. (That's a whole other story)
After I got the majority of the kids off to school I dropped The Dad off at work, and headed to Bentonville to pick up my paycheck.
You see, AWBU conference was starting today and I was trying to streamline my preparation. I took The Dad to work because I was carpooling with my BFF Heather in what was planned to be karaoke fest 2012, and we didn't want to leave one of our vehicles parked away from home all weekend.
So anyways, I took the Dad to work and hit I-540 towards Bentonville. It's 9 am and my phone starts ringing. It's my other BFF Shawna. Shawna NEVER calls me in the morning, she has kids and a job, it just doesn't happen, so I of course thought something was wrong. Nothing was wrong, she just wanted to chat. So we did.
I don't know how often you talk to your girlfriends, but when Shawna and I get the chance to speak to each other not text, it's usually a whole lot of OMG and laughing.
We were chatting about nothing really, and Boy 2, the baby, was just singing to himself from the backseat, so I wasn't really paying attention to my surroundings. I told Shawna I was headed to BV to get my check, and then home to pack for AWBU and the next thing I know I'm on the turnpike to Missouri.
MISSOURI!! In case you missed that!
Now that I was lost, I did what all good drivers do, I said "Shawna, hold on I'm lost" and then I turned the radio down.
I did manage to find my way out of Missouri and back into Arkansas. I also managed to remember to pick up my paycheck, eventually. (That's a whole other story)
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