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| A life-size teepee at the pioneer adventure display. |
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| Koi fish at the Japenese gardens. |
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| We ended our visit by splashing in the frog fountain. |
Getting Ready…
8 years ago
Wordful Wednesday: Lazy Sunday at the Bontanical Gardens
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
On Sunday we took Marlie to the Dallas Arboretum early in the morning to beat the heat (barely). Here's what we saw:
Toddler Log: 2 Years and 2 Weeks Old
Sunday, August 28, 2011
I changed the title of these weekly updates to Toddler Log. It just made sense since Marlie is no longer a baby. SHE'S NO LONGER A BABY...Waaaaah!
- Big girl got rain boots this week. They are so cool.
- She adopted a favorite adverb, the word "too." Now everything out of her mouth is "too" this, "too" that. Her shoes are "too" tight. Her eggs are "too" hot. Her toys are "too" heavy to pick up. She's "too" melodramatic if you ask me.
- There is this squirrel that hangs out in the live oak tree in our front yard. Marlie calls him Buddy and is constantly looking out the window for him. If he is not in the tree she'll ask, "where's Buddy?" and then tell me to "find Buddy." When he appears she squeals with joy, "Buddy! Buddy! Buddy!" I hope she always has this love for animals.
- Damon made chicken and waffles for dinner last night and it was finger-lickin' good I tell you! Marlie just ate and ate. If he opened a restaurant, we'd be rich.
Flashback Friday: Scammed by Granny
Friday, August 26, 2011
We all hear reports about people who scam the elderly out of their hard-earned money. It's criminal and the perpetrators deserved to be punished. But what happens when the con-artist is a senior citizen?I'll tell you because it happened to me.
We had been living in our house for less than a year, so we were still the new kids on the block and still learning about our neighbors. I was about five months pregnant and spent most of my days at home sleeping after months of an unsuccessful job search. One Saturday there was a knock at the door. Damon answered it. From upstairs I could here voices inside the house and shortly he appeared in our bedroom to ask for my cell phone. He explained that a neighbor needed it to call her family doctor because her husband was sick. I passed him my phone without giving it a second thought and went back to resting. A few minutes later, he was calling for me to come meet our neighbor. I got up, checked my appearance, and went downstairs.
She was a cute gray-haired lady, probably in her early sixties. We exchanged introductions. She thanked me for lending her my cell phone and congratulated me on my pregnancy. She explained that she and her husband were visiting her daughter who lived in a duplex two blocks down and he fill ill. Her daughter's residence didn't have a working phone. I told her it was no problem and that I was glad to help. After she left I stayed downstairs to watch TV. Thirty minutes later someone was knocking on the door. It was the little old lady again. I don't remember where Damon was this time. I answered the door. She asked if I could give her a ride to the pharmacy to pick up her husband's prescription. My spidey senses started tingling, but I ignored them. She looked harmless and, besides, I just told her half and hour ago that I liked to help. So I agreed.
Damon appeared at this point and asked what was going on. I told him I was giving her a ride to the drug store. He gave me a look, but I mumbled something about him starting this. Me and little old lady climbed into my car and off we went. During the drive, she started telling me about her failed first marriage and how her second husband was nice, but sick all the time. She also told me that her daughter's husband was killed in a drive-by and left her with two kids to raise alone. My mind was throwing red flags all over the field. I told her that we had just moved to Dallas, that I couldn't find work, and now we were expecting a baby so money was tight.
I pull up to the pharmacy right then and tell her I'll wait in the car thinking that I was giving myself an out. She returns a minute later and I knew what she was about to ask. She didn't have the money for the prescription and would I be a dear and help her out? She promised to repay me the next day. I felt trapped. It wasn't about the money. It was the whole set up that pissed me off. She asked me to drive her to the pharmacy knowing full well she didn't have any money. I wish I could blame the pregnancy hormones for impairing my judgement, but I can't. My instincts told me not to drive her there in the first place. Despite feeling used, I went inside with her and paid for the drugs.
The ride back was quiet. I dropped her off and headed home. I told Damon everything and he began to lecture me, but I wasn't in the mood. I remember telling him it was his own fault for inviting her in and letting her use my phone. That must have been like blood in the water for her. Suddenly I started to question parts of her story. Why did she walk two blocks to our house for a phone...didn't her daughter have next door neighbors? Where was her car if she was visiting? The more I thought about it the angrier I got. I just got had by a grandma!
Well, the next day came and went and there was no sign of granny and my money. After two days, I thought about knocking at her daughter's door, but Damon made me promise not to go over there. I asked my friend who is a lawyer if I had legal recourse and the answer was not really since I gave her the money of my own free will.I was about to let it go when on the fourth night there was a knock at our door. Damon went to answer it while I watched from the bedroom window. I heard a brief conversation and then Damon closing and locking the door. I saw granny walking down our pathway. I rushed downstairs and asked with hope in my voice if she had come by to repay me. He said no. She wanted to borrow money for gas! The nerve. He told her no point blank and asked her never to knock on our door again.That was the last time we saw granny.
Let this be a lesson to you all. Never trust a grandma with a sob story.
UPromise Celebrates 10th Annivesary With Sweepstakes
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of UPromise for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.
For 10 years UPromise has helped millions of college students finance their higher education through rewards accounts that earn your child money for school with every qualified purchase. Upromise members have received more than $600 million in college savings through this program!
In celebration of its decade of service, UPromise is giving away a total of $20,000 to users who share a story that tells how a parent has supported a child's dream! Tell UPromise what you dream for your child at www.upromisetodream.com for a chance to win the $1,000 weekly prize drawing. Then vote for your favorite dreams by selecting "like." The entry with the most votes by Septemeber 29th wins the $10,000 grand prize. See the dream wall official rules for more information.
I submitted an entry about saving the environment for my child. I talked about her having clean air and water in the future and how I am working toward that goal by living a greener lifestyle. Then I joined the UPromise prgram. What dreams do you have for your children? To become President? To cure cancer? To invent the next big technology? Share your dreams with UPromise and you might win money to make it come true!
What I'm Watching on #Netflix
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
This week's picks from Netflix Instant Watch:
TV Show:
Home Movies is a crudely drawn, ad-libbed, and hilarious show that airs on Cartoon Network in the wee hours of the morning. The cartoon follows the lives of precocious third-grader Brendon Smalls, a budding Spielberg, and his best friends as they attempt to make serious movies that their teachers and parents don't seem to appreciate. This show got me through 3 am breast-feedings, but watching it wide awake is even better.
Movie:
Tangled is Disney's cute remake of the Rapunzel fairytale. Rapunzel is no longer a damsel in distress, but a self-determined free-spirit out to make the most of her adventure outside the tower (with the help of a thief on the run, but she's totally in charge). Marlie L-O-V-E-D this movie, especially the palace horse Maximus. We watched it twice. The movie lacks a signature Disney Song of the Year contender, but the soundtracks are catchy, like a Broadway musicals.
TV Show:
Home Movies is a crudely drawn, ad-libbed, and hilarious show that airs on Cartoon Network in the wee hours of the morning. The cartoon follows the lives of precocious third-grader Brendon Smalls, a budding Spielberg, and his best friends as they attempt to make serious movies that their teachers and parents don't seem to appreciate. This show got me through 3 am breast-feedings, but watching it wide awake is even better.Movie:
Tangled is Disney's cute remake of the Rapunzel fairytale. Rapunzel is no longer a damsel in distress, but a self-determined free-spirit out to make the most of her adventure outside the tower (with the help of a thief on the run, but she's totally in charge). Marlie L-O-V-E-D this movie, especially the palace horse Maximus. We watched it twice. The movie lacks a signature Disney Song of the Year contender, but the soundtracks are catchy, like a Broadway musicals.
Baby Log: 2 Years and 1 Week Old
Sunday, August 21, 2011
I didn't think I'd be posting weekly updates on Marlie after she turned 2, but she keeps providing me with material...
- Her official birthday was on Monday. She also had her 2 year wellness exam that day. Her pediatrician is pleased with her growth and development, especially with her weight gain. She is slowly climbing the curve! She is still in the upper percentile for height. Everything was rosy until vaccine time. I feel terrible that she had to get shots on her birthday, but she it was only two!
- Marlie has started showing an interest in playing pretend. She received a tea set as a birthday present and has wrangled me and a couple teddy bears into having tea time. It's so cute how she pours "tea" into our cups from the teapot for and makes us all pretend to drink.
- Marlie was home with me all day this week as her school was on break. I decided to take a crack at the potty training. The naked booty method is a wonderful strategy. By Wednesday we had a rhythm going when it came to urination...she still poops on the floor or in her panties. I continue to place the rouge poop where it belongs and enlist her help with cleaning up. She loves cleaning up so this is not a deterrent for her. I'm at a loss except repeating what we're doing. I'm not frustrated or in a hurry. Running Marlie to the potty every 30 minutes is just not worth it right now if she is not ready to pee and poop in it. I'm okay with that. I can wait. Honestly, I don't consider a child fully potty trained until he/she can ask an adult to use the bathroom. What do you think?
- We went to a water park with some friends on Saturday. I stayed in the shade and read a book. hee. We came home and watched the US Gymnastics competition. As usual, Marlie started to do headstands and flips. I think she'd be a thrive in a gymnastics class as soon as she get as little more mature.
- This was a lucky week for me! I won some awesome giveaways: $50 Novica gift card from Homegrown Families, a $5 Walmart gift card from Mommy Delicious, and a $25 gift card to My Baby Clothes Boutique from A Helicopter Mom.
GreenTeaDAILY Review + Giveaway
On the checklist of list of things to do every day is eat right and exercise to stay healthy. GreenTeaDaily is here to give you the energy to get and stay in shape!
Packing the punch of 45 cups of regular green tea in each serving, GreenTeaDAILY boosts your immunity and metabolism in one powerful packet that you mix into cold water and drink. Simple! A description of the GreenTeaDAILY blend from the website:
Each packet of GreenTeaDaily is individually wrapped so it's portable and there is no fussing with measuring spoons. It comes is variety of flavors like Strawberry Pineapple, Creamsicle, Raspberry Lemonade, Chocolate and Original and is naturally sweetened with Xylitol, Sucrose, and Sucrolose. The sweeteners are a little strong for my taste, but not overpowering. My favorite is the Raspberry Lemonade. I was feeling run-down all last week, so I was grateful for my packets of GreenTeaDAILY. The energy boost is almost instantaneous. They really gave me the extra power to get through the day!
Buy It: GreenTeaDAILY retails for $59.95 for a 60-count box
Win It: GreenTeaDAILY is giving one Marlie and Me reader a sample box! Head over to my SPA FOR MA giveaway post to enter!
Disclosure: I received a sample to facilitate this review, no monetary compensation was given. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.
Packing the punch of 45 cups of regular green tea in each serving, GreenTeaDAILY boosts your immunity and metabolism in one powerful packet that you mix into cold water and drink. Simple! A description of the GreenTeaDAILY blend from the website:
GreenTeaDAILY contains over 450 mg of antioxidants and polyphenols per serving. In addition we have added:
Calcium: An important nutrient for the health of our bones and teeth, also a vital mineral for a broad range of organs and body systems.
Maqui Berry: Said to have a high composition of disease busting anti-oxidants, much higher than other well known superfoods.
Noni: Help boost and maintain a healthy immune system.
Acai: A remarkable concentration of antioxidants that help combat premature aging.
L-Theanine: Theanine has been shown to reduce mental and physical stress, and improves cognition and mood.
We recommend drinking GreenTeaDAILY twice a day 15 minutes before breakfast and 15 minutes before lunch for best results. Works great before workouts.
Each packet of GreenTeaDaily is individually wrapped so it's portable and there is no fussing with measuring spoons. It comes is variety of flavors like Strawberry Pineapple, Creamsicle, Raspberry Lemonade, Chocolate and Original and is naturally sweetened with Xylitol, Sucrose, and Sucrolose. The sweeteners are a little strong for my taste, but not overpowering. My favorite is the Raspberry Lemonade. I was feeling run-down all last week, so I was grateful for my packets of GreenTeaDAILY. The energy boost is almost instantaneous. They really gave me the extra power to get through the day!
Buy It: GreenTeaDAILY retails for $59.95 for a 60-count box
Win It: GreenTeaDAILY is giving one Marlie and Me reader a sample box! Head over to my SPA FOR MA giveaway post to enter!
Disclosure: I received a sample to facilitate this review, no monetary compensation was given. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.
Guard Your Credit Score With Your Life!
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
The title may sound a bit dramatic, but your credit score does influence your quality of life in many ways. You need a good credit score to make big purchases like a home and car, secure loans to keep your family afloat in rough economic times, and even to get certain jobs.
Maintaining a healthy credit score is no longer as simple as making all your payments on time. There are invisible predators out there looking for an opportunity to hijack your name and ruin your credit. Identity theft is a real and growing threat for everyone, so it is even more imperative that you protect your credit score. When was the last time you checked your credit score?
The government-sponsored AnnualCreditReport.com provides a free copy of your credit report from the three major credit bureaus once a year, but these reports do not include a credit score. You have to purchase credit score reports from each of the three bureaus or look online for a free credit score offer. You might also consider joining a credit-monitoring service to have access to your credit information all year long.
Remember, your name is only as good as your credit score so guard it with your life.
Maintaining a healthy credit score is no longer as simple as making all your payments on time. There are invisible predators out there looking for an opportunity to hijack your name and ruin your credit. Identity theft is a real and growing threat for everyone, so it is even more imperative that you protect your credit score. When was the last time you checked your credit score?
The government-sponsored AnnualCreditReport.com provides a free copy of your credit report from the three major credit bureaus once a year, but these reports do not include a credit score. You have to purchase credit score reports from each of the three bureaus or look online for a free credit score offer. You might also consider joining a credit-monitoring service to have access to your credit information all year long.
Remember, your name is only as good as your credit score so guard it with your life.
Wordful Wednesday: Marlie vs. The Balloons
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| Marlie decided to wrestle her birthday balloons on Sunday. Guess which opponent won. |
What I'm Watching on #Netflix
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
This week's picks from Netflix Instant Watch:
TV Show:
My Princess is another Korean language drama. It's a safe bet that I am hooked on these soap operas. While not as a compelling as Boys Over Flowers, this TV show about a regular college girl who discovers she is a princess is still winning. The lead actress reminds me of a young Julia Roberts. She is charming, funny, feisty, and all sweetheart.
Movie:
Why Did I Get Married Too? is the sequel to Tyler Perry's treatise on black marriage. There's the requisite drama, cheating, and abuse (apparently there are no good marriages in Black America). Still, this movie is an improvement on its predecessor. Mr. Perry steps up his film-making by fleshing out flat stereotypical characters and putting some meat on their bones. Janet Jackson is a revelation as a wife coming unhinged. It was a relief to see her trademark smile at the end. The takeaways: any problem in a marriage can be fixed as long as you are willing to forgive. It's an oversimplified message, but I get the point.
TV Show:
My Princess is another Korean language drama. It's a safe bet that I am hooked on these soap operas. While not as a compelling as Boys Over Flowers, this TV show about a regular college girl who discovers she is a princess is still winning. The lead actress reminds me of a young Julia Roberts. She is charming, funny, feisty, and all sweetheart.Movie:
Why Did I Get Married Too? is the sequel to Tyler Perry's treatise on black marriage. There's the requisite drama, cheating, and abuse (apparently there are no good marriages in Black America). Still, this movie is an improvement on its predecessor. Mr. Perry steps up his film-making by fleshing out flat stereotypical characters and putting some meat on their bones. Janet Jackson is a revelation as a wife coming unhinged. It was a relief to see her trademark smile at the end. The takeaways: any problem in a marriage can be fixed as long as you are willing to forgive. It's an oversimplified message, but I get the point.
Happy 2nd Birthday Baby Girl!
Monday, August 15, 2011
Dear Marlie,
Today you are 2 years old! To say that a lot has changed since your last birthday is an understatement. You have gone from walking to running; from babbling to talking. Some things never change though:
You still sleep with your arm folded under your head like your did in the womb and you are still hollering at the top of your lungs like you did the minute you came into the world.
I hope you had fun at your birthday party on Saturday. I like to think that you understood that it was your special day, especially when everyone gathered around to sing you "Happy Birthday" and you gave one of your coy smiles right then.
It was a joy to plan your birthday party right down to the tiniest detail. Nothing but the best for you my baby girl. I know these parties are more for my benefit, but I figure I should get my kicks in now while I still can. One day you might not want to hear my opinion on your birthday theme or the color for your balloons. Maybe you will after I show you these pictures from your 2nd birthday party. Mommy went all out (but not overboard) tracking down the perfect decorations for your pink giraffe theme. Even the tablecloth matched! I swelled with pride and happiness when I saw how great it turned out and how much all your little playmates enjoyed themselves.
You are my candlelight Marlie. I hope to celebrate lots of birthdays with you.
Love,
Mommy
p.s. here are the pictures I promised...
Today you are 2 years old! To say that a lot has changed since your last birthday is an understatement. You have gone from walking to running; from babbling to talking. Some things never change though:
You still sleep with your arm folded under your head like your did in the womb and you are still hollering at the top of your lungs like you did the minute you came into the world.
I hope you had fun at your birthday party on Saturday. I like to think that you understood that it was your special day, especially when everyone gathered around to sing you "Happy Birthday" and you gave one of your coy smiles right then.It was a joy to plan your birthday party right down to the tiniest detail. Nothing but the best for you my baby girl. I know these parties are more for my benefit, but I figure I should get my kicks in now while I still can. One day you might not want to hear my opinion on your birthday theme or the color for your balloons. Maybe you will after I show you these pictures from your 2nd birthday party. Mommy went all out (but not overboard) tracking down the perfect decorations for your pink giraffe theme. Even the tablecloth matched! I swelled with pride and happiness when I saw how great it turned out and how much all your little playmates enjoyed themselves.
You are my candlelight Marlie. I hope to celebrate lots of birthdays with you.
Love,
Mommy
p.s. here are the pictures I promised...
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| The table setting |
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| Guests making their stuffed zoo animals |
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| You really loved eating the strawberry cupcakes your daddy made |
Baby Log: 2 Years Old!
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Marlie turns 2 years old tomorrow! In honor of this magnificent occasion she had a splendid birthday party yesterday. She a lot of fun making stuffed zoo animals with her pals.
Two years signifies many things in the life of a child...
Sigh. She's still my baby whether she likes it or not.
- Switching her car seat to forward-facing. She likes not staring at the backseat. She also likes talking to me from the backseat like she is telling me how to drive. Funny.
- Figuring things out like how to undo said car seat belt. Not funny.
- Asking lots of questions: "where's daddy?" "what's that?" The "whys" have not started yet.
- Making lots of excited exclamations...Whoa! Hey! Help!
- Developing advanced tastes in books. The Cat in the Hat is a favorite.
- Putting away baby things. She's outgrown many baby items due to physical growth, but I also notice that she no longer wants anything to do with other things that are baby-ish. If I offer her an old toy, she go "no, baby!"
Spa for Ma Sponsor Spotlight: GreenTeaDAILY
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Do you know what is happening next Thursday? Its the start of the Spa for Ma Giveaway Blog Hop Aug 18-31!
Tons of bloggers are lined up to offer giveaways valued at $100 minimum and you get to hop from blog to blog and enter them all! Marlie and Me has climbed aboard this giveaway train with some really cool prizes.
My final sponsor is GreenTeaDAILY makers of the natural and healthy weight loss instant green tea supplement. Just pour into 12-16 ounces of cold water and enjoy! Read more about GreenTeaDAILY below.
Tell us a little bit about your business?
We have been selling high potency Green Tea for about 5 years now through retail locations in malls. We have sampled thousands of customers and educated them on the many different benefits of Green Tea. We have gotten popular however mainly for the weight loss benefits that Green Tea provides once you get enough of the specific anti-oxidants. Each of our single serving pixies contains about 450 mg of EGCG's and Polyphenols which is the equivalent to 45 cups of regular Green Tea per serving.
What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
At a young age I can remember wanting to get a job and work like the rest of my family so that I could make money. My sister made a comment to me saying that you don't want to work now because once you start you will be working the rest of your life. Didn't sound to appealing to me so I was always looking for something to make a living but that I would enjoy and not feel like work. I have learned that running your own business is a lot more work in the beginning of your own business, but the payoff and life lessons learned in the meantime seem to be more of worth.
What makes your products unique?
I believe the method in which we deliver the Green Tea. We extract out many important Anti-Oxidants into a powdered supplement which allows you to reap the full benefits of Green Tea. What happens with other drinks that are in liquid form and sitting on shelves for months is they start to oxidize and you end up losing the benefits. With GreenTeaDAILY it is easy to carry around and put in a water bottle anytime throughout your busy day.
What advice would you give women about finding time to take care of and pamper oneself?
Women in my opinion can handle quite a bit in day to day life. They are nurturers. So naturally they deserve to be pampered. They need to take time out of their busy lives to focus on themselves every once in a while. Go to a spa relax at least once a month and find time throughout each day to do something you enjoy.
Thanks to the folks at GreenTeaDAILY a lucky reader is going to win a box of GreenTeaDAILY in a mix of five yummy flavors! Come back Aug 18-31 for the Spa for Ma blog hop to enter the giveaway! Meanwhile, connect with GreenTeaDAILY on these social media:
Twitter
Facebook
blog
If you can't wait, you can buy GreenTeaDAILY with my referral link. Note: I will earn a commission with every purchase.
Tons of bloggers are lined up to offer giveaways valued at $100 minimum and you get to hop from blog to blog and enter them all! Marlie and Me has climbed aboard this giveaway train with some really cool prizes.
My final sponsor is GreenTeaDAILY makers of the natural and healthy weight loss instant green tea supplement. Just pour into 12-16 ounces of cold water and enjoy! Read more about GreenTeaDAILY below.
Tell us a little bit about your business?
We have been selling high potency Green Tea for about 5 years now through retail locations in malls. We have sampled thousands of customers and educated them on the many different benefits of Green Tea. We have gotten popular however mainly for the weight loss benefits that Green Tea provides once you get enough of the specific anti-oxidants. Each of our single serving pixies contains about 450 mg of EGCG's and Polyphenols which is the equivalent to 45 cups of regular Green Tea per serving.What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
At a young age I can remember wanting to get a job and work like the rest of my family so that I could make money. My sister made a comment to me saying that you don't want to work now because once you start you will be working the rest of your life. Didn't sound to appealing to me so I was always looking for something to make a living but that I would enjoy and not feel like work. I have learned that running your own business is a lot more work in the beginning of your own business, but the payoff and life lessons learned in the meantime seem to be more of worth.
What makes your products unique?
I believe the method in which we deliver the Green Tea. We extract out many important Anti-Oxidants into a powdered supplement which allows you to reap the full benefits of Green Tea. What happens with other drinks that are in liquid form and sitting on shelves for months is they start to oxidize and you end up losing the benefits. With GreenTeaDAILY it is easy to carry around and put in a water bottle anytime throughout your busy day.
What advice would you give women about finding time to take care of and pamper oneself?
Women in my opinion can handle quite a bit in day to day life. They are nurturers. So naturally they deserve to be pampered. They need to take time out of their busy lives to focus on themselves every once in a while. Go to a spa relax at least once a month and find time throughout each day to do something you enjoy.
Thanks to the folks at GreenTeaDAILY a lucky reader is going to win a box of GreenTeaDAILY in a mix of five yummy flavors! Come back Aug 18-31 for the Spa for Ma blog hop to enter the giveaway! Meanwhile, connect with GreenTeaDAILY on these social media:
blog
If you can't wait, you can buy GreenTeaDAILY with my referral link. Note: I will earn a commission with every purchase.
Things I'm Loving This Thursday
Thursday, August 11, 2011
this week I am loving...
What are you loving this Thursday?! Leave it in your comment :-)
The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey. I thoroughly enjoyed this heartbreaking tale of a 91-year-old shut-in suffering from the early stages of dementia and the general disrespect the elderly receives from society. Mr. Grey finds motivation to get his affairs in order after meeting a young lady almost 75 years his junior. She draws him out of his shell and he begins to connect the dots between his past and present thanks to an experimental neurological treatment that will ultimately take his life. Knowing he has no future, Mr. Grey sets out to right old wrongs and reclaims his dignity in the process.It is a beautiful story of grace and redemption.
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August birthdays. Some of my favorite people have August birthdays, including my Marlie and my grandma Millie. Most individuals born in August fall under the astrological sign of Leo. I don't normally pay attention the zodiac, but according to Wikipedia Leo is a fire sign. That explains a lot! They are also considered extroverts who are semi-compatible with the Taurus sign (that would be me). Anyway, I found this cool artwork of a Leo and Taurus at Arte Kjara.She has some cool DIY art projects!
What are you loving this Thursday?! Leave it in your comment :-)
Spa for Ma Sponsor Spotlight: Jaxx Candles
Do you know what is happening next Monday? Its the start of the Spa for Ma Giveaway Blog Hop Aug 18-31!
Tons of bloggers are lined up to offer giveaways valued at $100 minimum and you get to hop from blog to blog and enter them all! Marlie and Me has climbed aboard this giveaway train with some really cool prizes.
My next sponsor is Jaxx Candles, an online company offering handmade candles as well as related services and information. Jackie is the brains behind Jaxx Candles, which also celebrates its one-year anniversary on July 29! In appreciation of a successful first year, customers can receive 10% off anything in the shop by using coupon code YearOne at checkout. Read more about Jaxx Candles below.
Tell us a little bit about your business?
Jaxx Candles is a business that not only makes candles and related products, but a business that wants to build a candle community. We love everything candles and have created a website where people can come to chat, learn, share information and shop for all things candle related. We are building a unique experience for the candle enthusiast.
What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
have always enjoyed crafting. In 2002, I discovered candle making with gel candles. I loved it and began doing and learning everything about it. I have since expanded into other areas and the ideas and creativity are just endless. I really have a passion for it and decided in 2010 to turn that passion into a business.
What makes your products unique?
Although we do offer mainstream products, we pride ourselves on creating unique and one of kind items. We like to take the ordinary and add our own creativity to make something new and different.
What advice would you give women about finding time to pamper oneself?
As a Mom of three young boys who works full-time and has the candle business on the side, I know first hand about the need for pampering. You need to take time for yourself, even if just a half hour for a bath or reading time or a relaxing walk or movie on tv. I have found that time for yourself is vital to keep life balanced.
Thanks Jackie! How would you like to win a wax warmer with melts from Jaxx Candles? Come back Aug 18-31 to enter the giveaway! Meanwhile, connect with evaelena on these social media:
Twitter
Facebook
etsy
Tons of bloggers are lined up to offer giveaways valued at $100 minimum and you get to hop from blog to blog and enter them all! Marlie and Me has climbed aboard this giveaway train with some really cool prizes.
My next sponsor is Jaxx Candles, an online company offering handmade candles as well as related services and information. Jackie is the brains behind Jaxx Candles, which also celebrates its one-year anniversary on July 29! In appreciation of a successful first year, customers can receive 10% off anything in the shop by using coupon code YearOne at checkout. Read more about Jaxx Candles below.
Tell us a little bit about your business?
Jaxx Candles is a business that not only makes candles and related products, but a business that wants to build a candle community. We love everything candles and have created a website where people can come to chat, learn, share information and shop for all things candle related. We are building a unique experience for the candle enthusiast.What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
have always enjoyed crafting. In 2002, I discovered candle making with gel candles. I loved it and began doing and learning everything about it. I have since expanded into other areas and the ideas and creativity are just endless. I really have a passion for it and decided in 2010 to turn that passion into a business.
What makes your products unique?
Although we do offer mainstream products, we pride ourselves on creating unique and one of kind items. We like to take the ordinary and add our own creativity to make something new and different.What advice would you give women about finding time to pamper oneself?
As a Mom of three young boys who works full-time and has the candle business on the side, I know first hand about the need for pampering. You need to take time for yourself, even if just a half hour for a bath or reading time or a relaxing walk or movie on tv. I have found that time for yourself is vital to keep life balanced.
Thanks Jackie! How would you like to win a wax warmer with melts from Jaxx Candles? Come back Aug 18-31 to enter the giveaway! Meanwhile, connect with evaelena on these social media:
etsy
Spa for Ma Sponsor Spotlight: Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliator
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
I have suffered from severe dry skin for as long as I can remember. The worst areas are my hands and feet. The heels of my feet crack and sometimes bleed during extreme cold or hot weather. Hello, Texas winters and summers! I have used all kinds of foot lotions and creams with limited success, so I had nothing to lose by trying Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliators.
I have only been using Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliator in citrus mint on the soles of my feet for one week, but I already see a big improvement. My heels are smoother and less flaky, plus the cracks are healing! What makes this product work are the ingredients, a combination of nourishing virgin coconut and palm oils that are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin E along with other essential oils. These oils are combined with natural sea salts to create a 100% natural and gentle skin exfoliator that removes dead cells and moisturizes your skin. Take a look at my results (please excuse the crappy photography):
Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliators come in three varieties: unscented, lavender and citrus mint and can be used from head to toe!
Buy It: Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliators retail for $16.95 (now on sale for $11.99!)
Win It: Come back for the Spa for Ma giveaway event August 18-31 for your chance to win your own 4 oz jar of Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliator in your choice of scent! Meanwhile connect with Tropical Traditions on these social media:
Twitter
Facebook
Weekly Sales Blog
I have only been using Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliator in citrus mint on the soles of my feet for one week, but I already see a big improvement. My heels are smoother and less flaky, plus the cracks are healing! What makes this product work are the ingredients, a combination of nourishing virgin coconut and palm oils that are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin E along with other essential oils. These oils are combined with natural sea salts to create a 100% natural and gentle skin exfoliator that removes dead cells and moisturizes your skin. Take a look at my results (please excuse the crappy photography):Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliators come in three varieties: unscented, lavender and citrus mint and can be used from head to toe!
Buy It: Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliators retail for $16.95 (now on sale for $11.99!)
Win It: Come back for the Spa for Ma giveaway event August 18-31 for your chance to win your own 4 oz jar of Tropical Traditions Skin Exfoliator in your choice of scent! Meanwhile connect with Tropical Traditions on these social media:
Weekly Sales Blog
Wordful Wednesday: Bossypants
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| I realized just how bossy Marlie can be when she attempted to rule the geese at the park. |
What I'm Watching on #Netflix
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
This week's picks from Netflix Instant Watch:
TV Show:
Boys Over Flowers: Vol 1. I'm loving this Korean soap opera about a plucky girl from a poor, working class family who wins a scholarship to an exclusive private school where she outwits the F4 clique and eventually falls in love with its ring leader. Will the young couple from opposite sides of the track find a way to be together or will class, friendships, misfortunes, misunderstandings, and scheming parents get in the way? Like its American and Spanish counterparts this soap opera oozes drama, but with more dignified characters and plots. There is no sleeping around, no baby daddies or cat fights in a fountains. Boys Over Flowers is a love story that unfolds like a lotus blossom.
Movie:
Kites is the American version of a Bollywood film (meaning more skin and violence). It starts off as a Dirty Dancing-type love story. A hunky, economically-challenged Indian dancer (bearing a striking resemblance to Bradley Cooper) hustles to make money, including pretending to like the daughter of a casino kingpin. The movie quickly turns into an extended version of R. Kelly's "Mr. Biggs" when said hunky dancer falls for the future daughter-in-law of the casino boss, a beautiful latina. They run off together and a bounty is put on their heads (btw, she doesn't speak English or Hindi and he doesn't speak Spanish, so how do they communicate?! By making lots of gestures and googly eyes at each other). The movie then becomes a wacky Bonnie and Clyde caper as they rob a bank, scam their jilted lovers, and escape to Mexico. There is no happy ending for these two though. I sure hope the original is better.
TV Show:
Boys Over Flowers: Vol 1. I'm loving this Korean soap opera about a plucky girl from a poor, working class family who wins a scholarship to an exclusive private school where she outwits the F4 clique and eventually falls in love with its ring leader. Will the young couple from opposite sides of the track find a way to be together or will class, friendships, misfortunes, misunderstandings, and scheming parents get in the way? Like its American and Spanish counterparts this soap opera oozes drama, but with more dignified characters and plots. There is no sleeping around, no baby daddies or cat fights in a fountains. Boys Over Flowers is a love story that unfolds like a lotus blossom. Movie:
Kites is the American version of a Bollywood film (meaning more skin and violence). It starts off as a Dirty Dancing-type love story. A hunky, economically-challenged Indian dancer (bearing a striking resemblance to Bradley Cooper) hustles to make money, including pretending to like the daughter of a casino kingpin. The movie quickly turns into an extended version of R. Kelly's "Mr. Biggs" when said hunky dancer falls for the future daughter-in-law of the casino boss, a beautiful latina. They run off together and a bounty is put on their heads (btw, she doesn't speak English or Hindi and he doesn't speak Spanish, so how do they communicate?! By making lots of gestures and googly eyes at each other). The movie then becomes a wacky Bonnie and Clyde caper as they rob a bank, scam their jilted lovers, and escape to Mexico. There is no happy ending for these two though. I sure hope the original is better.
Spa for Ma Sponsor Spotlight: evaelena recycled jewelry & vintage shop
Do you know what is happening next Monday? Its the start of the Spa for Ma Giveaway Blog Hop Aug 18-31!
Tons of bloggers are lined up to offer giveaways valued at $100 minimum and you get to hop from blog to blog and enter them all! Marlie and Me has climbed aboard this giveaway train with some really cool prizes.
Meet first sponsor evaelena, an etsy shop specializing in recycled jewelry and vintage. Eva is the genius behind these incredibly artistic accessories. Oh, and she lives in Sydney, Australia. How cool is that?! Read more about her and her craft below.
Tell us a little bit about your business?
My business evaelena is a mix of jewelry that I upcycle from vintage objects, vintage spoons and old jewelry plus I sell a small range of what I consider interesting vintage items. I like things that are good design, beautifully crafted, interesting and unique or quirky and amusing from any era. This business is a joy and a realisation of my life long passion for vintage things and my need to make things.
What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
I am an artist who works mainly in video and the inspiration for my jewelry came out of a big project I did a few years ago on the concept of place and belonging. This got me interested in souvenir spoons which led me to make jewelry out of them. After a while I was making so many pieces for friends that I decided to start a little shop on etsy, and it is growing from there!
What makes your products unique?
I love to be different and each of my jewelry pieces are original and unique as they are made from vintage spoons and components. No two pieces are ever the same. I am a romantic and I love the idea of wearing unique pieces that come from different places and times. I do commissions and I make pieces that come from particular places that are important to the wearer and this makes them very special to wear.
What advice would you give women about finding time to pamper oneself?
I am a mother of three and have always had to juggle career and children and I know how important it is to find time for yourself. My advice is to take yourself and your needs seriously. It is very easy to get caught up with meeting everyone else's needs in the family. By putting some regular time aside per week - such as a yoga or gym class, a lunch with girlfriends, sitting in the sun in a park reading a nice book - whatever it is that recharges you should be scheduled in your busy week. This helps give you time out but also gives you an opportunity to be yourself for a while, rather than someone's wife or mother or daughter! Ultimately a little time out makes us better nurturers! Of course, buying yourself a little something special now and again is a treat that also confirms your unique identity!
Thanks Eva! How would you like to win a $30 voucher to spend at evaelena? Come back August 18-31 to enter the giveaway! Meanwhile, connect with evaelena on these social media:
Twitter
Facebook
Blog
Tons of bloggers are lined up to offer giveaways valued at $100 minimum and you get to hop from blog to blog and enter them all! Marlie and Me has climbed aboard this giveaway train with some really cool prizes.
Meet first sponsor evaelena, an etsy shop specializing in recycled jewelry and vintage. Eva is the genius behind these incredibly artistic accessories. Oh, and she lives in Sydney, Australia. How cool is that?! Read more about her and her craft below.
Tell us a little bit about your business?
My business evaelena is a mix of jewelry that I upcycle from vintage objects, vintage spoons and old jewelry plus I sell a small range of what I consider interesting vintage items. I like things that are good design, beautifully crafted, interesting and unique or quirky and amusing from any era. This business is a joy and a realisation of my life long passion for vintage things and my need to make things.What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
I am an artist who works mainly in video and the inspiration for my jewelry came out of a big project I did a few years ago on the concept of place and belonging. This got me interested in souvenir spoons which led me to make jewelry out of them. After a while I was making so many pieces for friends that I decided to start a little shop on etsy, and it is growing from there!
What makes your products unique?
I love to be different and each of my jewelry pieces are original and unique as they are made from vintage spoons and components. No two pieces are ever the same. I am a romantic and I love the idea of wearing unique pieces that come from different places and times. I do commissions and I make pieces that come from particular places that are important to the wearer and this makes them very special to wear.What advice would you give women about finding time to pamper oneself?
I am a mother of three and have always had to juggle career and children and I know how important it is to find time for yourself. My advice is to take yourself and your needs seriously. It is very easy to get caught up with meeting everyone else's needs in the family. By putting some regular time aside per week - such as a yoga or gym class, a lunch with girlfriends, sitting in the sun in a park reading a nice book - whatever it is that recharges you should be scheduled in your busy week. This helps give you time out but also gives you an opportunity to be yourself for a while, rather than someone's wife or mother or daughter! Ultimately a little time out makes us better nurturers! Of course, buying yourself a little something special now and again is a treat that also confirms your unique identity!
Thanks Eva! How would you like to win a $30 voucher to spend at evaelena? Come back August 18-31 to enter the giveaway! Meanwhile, connect with evaelena on these social media:
Blog
Spa for Ma Giveaway Blog Hop Starts Next Week! $100 Prize Package!
Monday, August 8, 2011
If you love giveaways and you love to get pampered, then you are going to love the Spa for Ma blog hop August 18-31 organized by Measuring Flower and Graphoniac!
Spa for Ma is exactly what is sounds like...a collective of 200 blogs offering prize packages of products to help moms relax. The giveaways are valued at $100 minimum and there are two whole weeks to hop through all the blogs on the linky list. So there is no excuse not to enter to win the pretty awesome prizes!
Marlie and Me will be participating in the Spa for Ma event thanks to these sponsors:
Jaxx Candles
Tropical Traditions
evaelena recycled jewelry and vintage shop
GreenTeaDaily
Plus I am throwing in a $25 Bath & Body Works gift card from me! So mark your calendar, set your alarm to wake up early, and schedule a daily reminder on your iPhone for Aug 18-31 because you don't want to miss this event!
Spa for Ma is exactly what is sounds like...a collective of 200 blogs offering prize packages of products to help moms relax. The giveaways are valued at $100 minimum and there are two whole weeks to hop through all the blogs on the linky list. So there is no excuse not to enter to win the pretty awesome prizes!
Marlie and Me will be participating in the Spa for Ma event thanks to these sponsors:
Jaxx Candles
Tropical Traditions
evaelena recycled jewelry and vintage shop
GreenTeaDaily
Plus I am throwing in a $25 Bath & Body Works gift card from me! So mark your calendar, set your alarm to wake up early, and schedule a daily reminder on your iPhone for Aug 18-31 because you don't want to miss this event!
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