NY

Please come by my new home...........

2008-04-23T06:53:00.003-04:00

I know I still have this blog up and running but I've got a new home now.

Click here.

Hope to see there!

I'm on a Starbucks Strike!

2008-04-09T18:08:00.002-04:00

I have been on a Starbucks strike for almost 4 months.. I know some of you are like what??? Lisa is on a Starbucks strike?? That can't be! I know, I love coffee, Starbucks and everything about coffee but you'll understand why after you read my post. Although, I did almost lose the strike when I went to North Carolina for Easter weekend.

Here's why: I had planned to meet a friend at a local Starbucks in N.C. that I have known over the internet for over 2 years but I never met her face-to-face. For some reason, that didn't go thru because of our families or what have you..

Anyway, one of the reasons why I'm on a strike with Starbucks is because I love the coffee my Senseo machine makes. It's so good, I don't need to go to Starbucks anymore. The Senseo is my new Starbucks at home. You can get so many different types of coffee, it's great.

The second reason for the strike is because the last 4-5 times I have had anything from Starbucks, the lattes have been mediocre. It's either bitter, warm, too bland, too sweet, not enough coffee in the cup, or way too watery. I remember getting some really great coffee before but all of a sudden, they weren't good anymore..

*Could it be that the new baristas are not trained well enough?
*Could it be that they don't know how to make coffee?
*Could it be that they need a bit more training?

Well, thank goodness they closed back in February for almost 4 hours to re-train those baristas. They sure need the training at the Starbucks by me. They called it, "Perfect the Art of Espresso". I hope they get it right this time. Anyway, when I did get coffee at Starbucks, it was either a Caramel Macchiato or Chai Tea. The Caramel Macchiatos are so good (when the coffee isn't bitter) but why should I spend almost $4 for bitter coffee, milk and caramel?? No thank you. I rather make a great cup of coffee at home for the fraction of the cost at Designer Latte's, I mean Starbucks.......lol.

Ya know, I haven't stepped foot in a Starbucks since the new year began. To be honest, why should I? I don't trust Starbucks anymore. I am scared to order a latte, taste the bitterness or ask for a different cup because someone might either spit in it (I know, gross) or put something foreign in the cup. Who knows! Am I wrong to feel this way? Do I need some type of Starbucks therapy?

If you've had a bad experience with a coffee shop, let me know! I would love to hear about it!

*** I think I should go to Starbucks this week and order my "usual" and come back and write a review on it. Tomorrow (April 8th at 12pm sharp) would be a great day to go and try their coffee again.... They have a surprise for the public. They say the surprise is Venti BIG... It's probably just a free small cup of java.

We'll see! Stay tuned!

I need ideas

2008-04-09T18:03:00.003-04:00

Does anyone in cyberspace have any ideas how to cook an entire meal with a crock pot/slow cooker? We are going on week 2 on not having a workable stove (gas leak) and I need all the help I can get. I've been using our grill, microwave and toaster oven to cook our meals but I'm getting sick of those foods. I need some comfort food in my tummy, ya know.

So, I went to Kmart and bought this: It was on sale for $29.99 and it matches perfectly with my kitchen. So, I need a great web site for recipes I can use for my whole family.. I need easy, fool-proof recipes.Somebody, anybody; please help me!

Attention: Bloggers in the NYC area!

2008-04-02T11:56:00.007-04:00

Blogher will be having an event, Thursday, April 3, 2008 - Friday, April 4, 2008 and it is located at:

Affinia Manhattan Hotel
371 Seventh Avenue
New York, New York 10001

It's about:

BlogHer Business brings the world's leading bloggers and businesses together in an intimate setting to strip away the hype and hyperbole and get to the heart of what makes social media work. We understand that your customers are where the action is, and our event is designed to help you reach them.

They will talk about:
~Inspiring case studies (not just cautionary tales)
~How-to's from the experts and pioneers
~Debate, discussion and in-depth conversations
~Ample opportunity for informal networking

Check their website out: http://www.blogher.com/
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
There is also a Blogger Social.

Blogger Social '08 - Friday, April 4, 2008 - Sunday, April 6, 2008

Here is what they say:

Blogger social is like no other marketing event because it’s not about marketing and it’s not about blogging—it’s about the marketers behind the blogs. Neither conference nor summit, it’s one weekend, held once a year, where the marketing blogging community descends upon a designated city for a weekend full of events designed to allow everyone to get to know one another better—and designed to give everyone free time to design their own meet ups, too!

Check out their site http://www.blogger-social.com/ to find out where they will be. If you're in the NYC area, go and visit them.

Neglect

2008-04-02T08:23:00.006-04:00

Since setting up my own domain name & blogging at my new site, I've been doing something I'm not very proud of. It's called neglect. I've neglected my house that keeps me protected, warm and happy. How can I do this to my house? I love my house clean and organized but that is not what I've been doing lately. I've been occupying my brain with domain names, blogging and web sites. I know hubby isn't happy about my neglect but he keeps quiet about it. Something I wish he wouldn't do because then I would get my butt off this computer chair and do what I gotta do. I mean he is the breadwinner and I am a SAHM (stay at home mom).

So, what I'm going to do today is put the dishes away from in the dishwasher, laundry, vacuum, mop, dust, go to blockbuster and return some movies, go to the library and figure out what's for dinner, being that we are going on day 3 of not having propane for our stove. Let's see what I accomplish today.

Click here and check out my new home.

The new name is http://www.newyorkchica.com/. Please bookmark the new one because this blog will be deleted soon. I will post here as well as my new home until my new blog is established.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-04-02T08:15:00.004-04:00

The Food Network has a new baby!

2008-03-31T09:03:00.013-04:00

That's right! Giada De Laurentiis gave birth to a baby girl on Saturday, March 29th in Los Angeles. You've seen her on her show Everyday Italian, Behind the Bash & Giada's Weekend Getaways.

I didn't even know she was pregnant. I was really surprised when I saw it on Yahoo's front page. Her name is Jade Marie De Laurentiis Thompson and she weighed in at 5lbs, 13oz.

Here is what Giada said about her news:

"When I found out I was pregnant I was in complete shock," De Laurentiis said last November, when the baby news was first announced "I truly didn't believe it. I honestly thought, 'There has got to be a mistake.' " By February, she was saying of the physical changes overtaking her – and her sudden cravings for steak – "I couldn't be more excited about being pregnant. ... I can't wait to meet her."

Good luck on your new baby girl! You will have lots of fun with her.

CVS March "FREE" Madness

2008-03-30T15:11:00.018-04:00

For all those CVS heads like me, there are a few things you can get for free at your local CVS if you go by Monday, March 31st, which is tomorrow!

One item I am loving right now is Lypsyl Lip Moisturizer.

It's made with pure Swedish beeswax, LypRadiance™ Honey Rose helps moisturize, glisten, and soften your lips, with a light, fruity flavor. Contains a blend of subtle reflectants and a light tint for a natural looking shine.

CVS is selling it for $2.99 and when you buy one, you get $2.99 back in CVS bucks. So it's like getting if for free. I now own five (which is the limit) and I think I'll give a few away. I'll let someone else enjoy the benefits of Lypsyl too.

The other item I really love is the Oral B Cross Action Pro Toothbrush. You buy it for $4.99 and you get $4.99 in CVS bucks. The limit is two.

I really love the way it cleans my teeth and the way it gives my gums an awesome massage.

Here are the 7 benefits:

*Removes up to 90% of plaque in hard-to-reach places*
*Helps improve gum health in 4 weeks
*Provides up to 55% better cleaning along the gumline vs. manual toothbrush
*Removes surface stains and polishes teeth
*Removes odor-causing germs from the tongue
*Stimulates gums
*Works gently on enamel and gums

The last two items for free are the CVS Brand Vitamin C 500 mg 100 or 110 ct (limit 5) & Colgate Total Advanced Whitening 4 oz. (limit 5). They are both $2.99 and you get that back with CVS bucks so you can't lose. I took advantage of all these freebies so what are you waiting for?

Ps.. Maybe I should get a job at CVS and really save more money....Hmmmm, I wonder.. =)

Wordless Wednesday

2008-03-26T15:31:00.003-04:00

Be OYSTER aware!

2008-03-26T10:04:00.020-04:00

I once heard this joke: What kind of noise annoys an oyster? A noisy noise annoys an oyster. Say that 5 times fast. LOL....

OK, all jokes aside. Let's be serious now. Everyone knows that Oysters are usually eaten raw with fresh lemon juice and sometimes with hot sauce but did you know that Gulf Coast Oysters can carry bacteria called Vibrio vulnificus? It causes vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain, especially if you have chronic liver disease, impaired immune systems, diabetes and cancer. It can even cause DEATH! I'm so glad I don't eat oysters. I can't even stand the look of it. It's slimy, gross looking and it smells bad. I know alot of people that eat oysters and they love it. Even though Oysters are a great source of Vitamins A, C, D and B Vitamins, B1, B2 and B3, I still won't eat it. I rather get my vitamins from a pill.

Did you know there was a site for people who enjoy eating oysters? Be Oyster Aware is a site where you can learn the facts on oysters, how to eat oysters the safe way and they even have recipes on how to cook them too. Check it out and spread the word!

Be Gulf oysters aware!

Products I love and use very often

2008-03-26T09:43:00.010-04:00

This is perfect for chapped lips and dry patches on your skin.

This is great for eye makeup removal.
I use this to make smoothies, sofrito & to chop onions.

I've been using Oil of Olay since I was 15. I love it.

This is a great stain removal.

This is the best facial cleanser for me. It doesn't dry out my skin like others do.

I can make you thin

2008-03-26T09:26:00.008-04:00

That is the new show on The Learning Channel (TLC) with Paul McKenna. He is a weight loss guru in the U.K. First, there are a few questions.

Do you want to

Overcome emotional eating?
Conquer your cravings?
Supercharge your metabolism?
Feel confident with your body?

If you answer one or all of the above, then check out his site. I signed up and I think it will help me control the night time eating. I tend to eat at night because the house is quiet, my hubby and I are snuggled on the sofa watching our shows, the kids are in bed and I have no one asking me to feed them too. So maybe I'll lose the 20 pounds I've been wanting to lose for awhile. If it does work for me, I'll be sure to post it here on my blog.

Woman for President?

2008-03-25T18:55:00.007-04:00

That may be a possibility but knowing this country, it may not be. Everyone knows, this is a man's world; unfortunately. You see, my husband mentioned something tonite that makes so much sense. He said if we were to ever have a woman president, other countries might view us as being weak. Alot of foreign countries have women that can't show their face, must be a certain way or else they get killed and have set beliefs. Whereas in America, we have freedom of speech and we have Woman's Rights. In this country, women are seen as equals; Well, most of the time. Not when it comes to salary because we all know men get paid more then women for the same type of job.

Anyway, I would love to see a woman be President. That would be such an acheivement to all women. To know we are equal next to men would be great. I would also love to see an African-American become President also because they have come a long way and they also deserve the right to become President. Why not?

What do you think? Who will be our next President?

Works-For-Me-Wednesday!

2008-03-19T08:13:00.008-04:00

I have three tips.

When you roast a whole chicken, freeze the whole carcass in a large freezer Ziploc bag and save it for another dinner - soup. You can also boil the carcass with onions, carrots, celery, parsnips, salt, pepper and herbs for at least 4 hours to make a great stock too.
To save time on cleaning my refrigerator, I place an aluminum foil on the bottom of each drawer. So when it's time to clean your drawers in your fridge, all you have to do is remove the foil and replace with a new one. Also, clean with a hot sponge or towel. The dirt lifts up easily.
If you're a coffee lover like me, place the empty mug under hot water, heat the milk/half-and-half in the microwave or small pot with or without sweetener (however you like it) then add your nice hot brewed coffee. The coffee will stay hot longer.

American Idol

2008-03-18T23:21:00.011-04:00

My favorites so far is:

Syesha Mercado

&

Chikezie

Who will win? America will decide!

But I have a small problem with this year's show. The idol I don't agree with is Carly Smithson. Don't get me wrong, the girl can sing. The only thing is that she was discovered already. If you didn't know, here is the article. From what everyone knows, American Idol is a competition for people that can sing, stand out from all the rest and never had a record label. She released an album for the company MCA Records called Ultimate High back in 2001. She was then known as Carly Hennessy before she got married. She sold less then 400 copies. I guess it really sucked but wait, there's another twist. Randy Jackson was the Senior vice-president when she started at MCA Records. Randy started in 1998 and was there for 4 years. Can you believe that? Carly was signed into the company in 1999. So why is she STILL in the competition? I feel it is unfair she is still at A.I. because she had her chance at stardom already. She even won a Meteor Award in 2003 for Best Irish Female Singer.

HELLO??? Is American Idol hiding this because Randy was once the Senior Vice-President of the company that signed her up??? I don't understand.

American Idol, let "normal" people with "no record label" allow to be a contestant in the show next time. What is wrong with you people?

10 Items I can't live without

2008-03-18T17:19:00.003-04:00

Senseo Coffee Maker
Dryer sheets
Water
Cable/TV
DVR
PC
My car
My microwave
My digital Camera
Soap

Broadway Shows I would love to see

2008-03-18T09:45:00.006-04:00

In the Heights

About: It's a new musical about three days in the life of Washington Heights, a vibrant and tight knit community at the top of the island of Manhattan. It's a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open, and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. Created by a team of New York's freshest young talents, IN THE HEIGHTS is the tale of a community at a crossroads. Find out what it takes to make a living, what it costs to have a dream, and what it means to be home IN THE HEIGHTS.

Disney's The Little Mermaid

About: In a magical kingdom beneath the sea, a beautiful young mermaid named Ariel longs to leave her ocean home to live in the world above. But first, she’ll have to defy her father – the king of the sea, escape the clutches of an evil sea witch and convince a prince that she’s the girl with the perfect voice. Based on the beloved film, THE LITTLE MERMAID features some of Disney’s most popular songs including “Part of Your World,” “Kiss the Girl” and the Academy Award®-winning “Under the Sea.”

Grease

About: After spending a hopelessly devoted summer with new girl in town, Sandy Dumbrowski, Danny Zuko's world is thrown upside down when Sandy appears at Rydell High on the first day of school. What follows is a rock 'n' roll celebration of growin' up, cruisin' with friends and goin' steady while Danny and The T-Birds spar with The Pink Ladies who take "good girl" Sandy under their wing.In addition to the smash songs "Summer Nights," "Greased Lightning" and "We Go Together" made famous by the Broadway production, the new revival includes "You're the One That I Want," "Hopelessly Devoted to You" and "Sandy" from the 1978 film starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John as the lovelorn teens.Tony Award winner Kathleen Marshall (The Pajama Game) directs and choreograph this new Broadway production. Stars Max Crumm and Laura Osnes were chosen by the popular vote on the NBC reality show You're the One That I Want!

The Lion King

About: Disney presents a brand-new musical that brings THE LION KING'S wildly popular story, the Oscar winning Elton John/Tim Rice songs, and an entire African landscape to the stage of the gloriously renovated Minkoff theatre. Directed and designed by Tony Award nominee Julie Taymor, THE LION KING fills the theatre with sights and sounds of one of Broadways most imaginative new talents - all to bring new life to Disneys crowd pleasing story of a young princes adventure-filled journey to adulthood - and the throne.

Young Frankenstein

About: A wickedly inspired re-imagining of the Mary Shelley classic from the comic genius of Mel Brooks. When Frederick Frankenstein, an esteemed New York brain surgeon and professor, inherits a castle and laboratory in Transylvania from his grandfather, deranged genius Victor Von Frankenstein, he faces a dilemma. Does he continue to run from his family's tortured past or does he stay in Transylvania to carry on his grandfather's mad experiments reanimating the dead and, in the process, fall in love with his sexy lab assistant Inga? Unfolding in the forbidding Castle Frankenstein and the foggy moors of Transylvania Heights, the show's raucous score includes 'The Transylvania Mania,' 'He Vas My Boyfriend' and the unforgettable treatment of Irving Berlin's 'Puttin' On the Ritz.'

Wicked

About: So much happened in Oz before Dorothy dropped in!With music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by Winnie Holzman, "Wicked" is based on the 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire and is the untold story of the Witches of Oz. One, born with emerald-green skin, is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. "Wicked" tells the story of a remarkable odyssey in which these two unlikely friends grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch.

Another one bites the dust!

2008-03-17T17:01:00.008-04:00

LOL..... CVS had another visit from me. I couldn't resist. I went in with a plan and one of the items were not in stock. It was the Gillette Venus Breeze razor. So I asked the manager if they had more in the back and he said no and he said they may get some more in tomorrow's delivery. That was ok. I quickly thought of something else. There was a lip color I was thinking of buying because when you buy one for $8.99, you get $8.99 back in ECB's. So that was part of my plan. Here it is:

1- Lady Speedstick - $1.99
1- Bic Soleil Razor - $5.99
1- Bic Soleil refills - $5.99
1- Maybelline Superstay Lipcolor - $8.99
1- Listerine Smart Rinse - $2.99
1- Tall Latte Mug - $1.12
1- Cottonelle Wet Wipes - $2.99
1- Puffs Plus tissue with Vicks - $1.99

Total: $32.05

Coupons used:
$5 off $15 Purchase
$1 for Listerine Smart Rinse
$1 for Lady Speedstick
$2 for Bic Soleil razor
$2 for Bic refill
$15 ECB's (3-Mach 3 razors)
$2.99 ECB's (CVS Vitamin C)
$2.99 ECB's (Colgate Total)

Total coupons used: $11.00
Total ECB's used: $20.98

New Total: 56 CENTS! I couldn't believe it. I never pay less then $2. I was amazed how my plan worked even better this time around. The cashier was like wow, that was a pretty good deal. After my receipt came out, she said wow, you know how to shop.. I just smiled and left the store as fast as I can.. LOL..I know, it sounds weird but I always feel guilty when I leave the store with my deals... I know I am not doing anything wrong, but I just can't help it.. Maybe it's the adrenaline that rushes thru my body from excitement...LOL

Anyway, I got back $18.98 in ECB's... $8.99 for the Lipcolor, $1.00 for the Speedstick, $6.00 for the Bic Soleil razor & refill & $2.99 for the Smart Rinse.

Top 10 Places I would love to visit

2008-03-16T20:45:00.008-04:00

Definitely not in this order:

1-France

2-Spain

3-Australia

4-Canada

5-Mexico

6-St. Lucia

7-Tahiti

8-Egypt

9-Italy

10-Greece

Now all I need is a passport, lots of cash and time. :) What I do have are DREAMS!! :)

Sunday = CVS Shopping!

2008-03-16T18:38:00.009-04:00

Yup, I'm an official CVS'er. I love it! I went in today with a plan, as always and I scored pretty big. Even though I wanted to pay less out of pocket, I still think I did great.

Here's what I bought:

Bumble Bee Pink Salmon - $1.50

Speedstick Deodorant - $1.99

Gillette Venus Breeze Razor - $9.99

2-Oral-B Pro-action toothbrush - $4.99 ea. ($9.98)

2-X-tra large Easter Eggs - $.99 ea. ($1.98)

2-Newspapers - $1.50 ea. ($3.00)

Total: $28.44

Coupons Used:

$5 off $15 purchase

$1.00 off any Speedstick Deo.

$2.00 off 2 Oral-B toothbrushes

$4 off Gillette Venus razor

$2 ECB's from buying 2 bags of Dove chocolates last week

$2 ECB's from buying 2-Juicy Drop pops last week

$6 ECB's from buying Gillette razor last week

Total Coupons and ECB's: $22.00

Total: $6.44

N.Y. Tax: $0.73

New Total: $7.17

Got back $18.96 in ECB's.

$1.98 ECB's: Easter eggs

$9.98 ECB's: Oral-B toothbrushes

$1.00 ECB's: Speedstick

$6.00 ECB's: Gillette Venus

So I made $11.79. Not bad for a few minutes cutting coupons and making a plan.

Movie Time!

2008-03-16T18:32:00.007-04:00

Crowds Hear 'Horton' Hauling in $45M

Horton hears a hit. Family audiences boosted 20th Century Fox's animated tale "Dr. Seuss' Horton Hears a Who!" to a $45.1 million debut, the best opening so far this year, according to studio estimates Sunday.

Featuring the voices of Jim Carrey and Steve Carell in an adaptation of the beloved storybook about an elephant defending a microscopic community from destruction, "Horton Hears a Who" is the latest computer-animated film from Blue Sky Studios, the outfit behind the "Ice Age" flicks.

The previous weekend's No. 1 movie, the Warner Bros. action yarn "10,000 B.C.," slipped to second place with $16.4 million, raising its 10-day total to $61.2 million. Summit Entertainment's "Never Back Down," about a troubled youth who finds purpose in the sport of mixed martial arts fighting, opened in third place with $8.6 million.

The weekend's other new wide release, Rogue Pictures' horror thriller "Doomsday," premiered at No. 7 with $4.7 million. The movie follows a team of specialists trying to find a cure for a ravaging epidemic that has forced the quarantine of Scotland.
"Horton Hears a Who" topped the $40.1 million opening in January for "Cloverfield," which previously was the year's No. 1 debut. "It's a 'who-mongous' opening, and it's playing to all Whos two to 92," said 20th Century Fox distribution executive Chris Aronson. "If you can't do an ode to Dr. Seuss with an opening like this, come on."

The new movie was the fourth-best opening ever in March. With the two "Ice Age" movies, "Horton" and "Robots," Blue Sky Studios now has four of the top six March debuts of all time.
"They should rename March 'Blue Sky month,'" said Paul Dergarabedian, president of box-office tracker Media By Numbers.

"Horton" landed in between the debut weekends of two other big-screen Seuss adaptations, 2000's "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" with $55.1 million and 2003's "The Cat in the Hat" with $38.3 million. With solid reviews for "Horton," Fox is counting on strong business through Easter next Sunday and beyond, as many students are out of school, Aronson said.
Hollywood's revenues rose for the first time after four straight weekends of declining business. Overall receipts came in at $127 million, up 8.5 percent from the same weekend last year, according to Media By Numbers.

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Media By Numbers LLC. Final figures will be released Monday.

1. "Dr. Seuss' Horton Hears a Who!", $45.1 million.
2. "10,000 B.C.," $16.4 million.
3. "Never Back Down," $8.6 million.
4. "College Road Trip," $7.9 million.
5. "Vantage Point," $5.4 million.
6. "The Bank Job," $4.9 million.
7. "Doomsday," $4.7 million.
8. "Semi-Pro," $3 million.
9. "The Other Boleyn Girl," $2.9 million.
10. "The Spiderwick Chronicles," $2.4 million.

Thanks to Yahoo news.

What is a girl's best friend?

2008-03-12T09:07:00.009-04:00

A diamond of course!! Would you like to get your hands on a 72.2 Carat Pear-shaped diamond?? Well, this is going to be as close as you can get to that! Check this out:

The D-color, flawless diamond is expected to bring up to $13 million when it goes on the auction block April 10 at Sotheby's Hong Kong galleries.

So, do you have $13 million laying around somewhere??? LOL..

Food TV

2008-03-12T08:49:00.010-04:00

Remember this post? Well, here are the the contestants for the Cake Competition.

COMPETITORS:
Chocolate

"Really Good" Chocolate Layer Cake Made by someone in N.J. (WINNER)
Anniversary Chocolate-Buttermilk Layer Cake with Toffee and Toasted Almonds Made by someone in Utah
Individual Molten Chocolate Coconut Cakes Made by someone in Fl.

Cupcakes

Orange Chiffon Cupcakes with Meringue Buttercream Made by someone in P.A.
Tres Leches Coconut Cupcakes with Dulce de Leche Buttercream Made by someone in Miss. (WINNER)
Gingerbread Cake with Brandy Sauce and Whipped Orange Flower Cream Made by someone in Mich.

Birthday

Put the Lime in the Coconut Cake Made by someone in Texas (WINNER)
"Honey, I'm Peanuts About You!" Cake Made by someone in Ariz.
Tropical Pound Cake Made by someone in Ala.

Grand Prize Winner:

"Really Good" Chocolate Layer Cake

All these cakes/cupcakes looked so delicious. I wish I was there to taste every bit of it.

Be on the look out for the Pasta Competition!

Why can't we have SMELL-O-VISION?

2008-03-11T18:53:00.011-04:00

What you see below is some arroz con gandules (rice and pigeon peas) y bistec con cebolla, pimientos y papas con ensalada. (and steak with onions, peppers and potatoes with salad). This is a typical Puerto Rican dish,
minus the paper plate. I was raised using "real" plates but I was always stuck washing dishes. Maybe that's why I usually use paper plates.. Hmmmmmm. So please, disregard the paper plate. Yes, we have REAL dishes; yes, I have a dishwasher; yes, I like eating in REAL plates and yes, I like eating in paper plates too. Hahahahahahahaha!

Any questions?? =)

(Thanks Sitel)

Two birthdays, too exhausted!

2008-03-11T06:39:00.012-04:00

I am officially exhausted. After celebrating two birthdays within 3 days for both of my daughters, I am pooped! I only had a party for one, the 9 year old. I thought the soon to be 3 year old would not notice so I decided to save some money and have my sis-in-law come over the actual day with her kids and we can have a small celebration. I was wrong! Yesterday morning was my 3 year old's birthday and she thought she was going to have her party at Chuck E Cheese's too. She started singing her own song about Chuck E Cheese. My heart sank. I couldn't believe it.. I called my husband and told him what she has said and his heart sanked too. We felt really bad. We really did think she wouldn't understand anything about parties and birthdays, but she sure did. That is what I get for ignoring the "baby".

So to make her feel better, I went out and bought some decorations and some balloons. My plans were for me to decorate the living room, bake her a cake, roast a whole chicken with roasted potatoes, carrots and parsnips, white rice and white beans and some salad with romaine lettuce, red onions and shredded carrots. I did all within 3 hours! I was amazed. The cake was made first, then while the cake cooled, the chicken went in. While the chicken was baking, I decorated the living room with streamers and balloons. That is when my daughter felt it was her day. She was so happy. She said to me, "Mommy, is this for me? Is this for my birthday?" I told her, "Of course baby, this is all for you". I was then relieved and happy she felt like the princess that she really is.

After we ate dinner, we rested and talked. Around 8pm, we started to call the kids to the living room because it was time to sing the happy birthday song. When she saw her cake, she was so excited. I was glad she loved her cake. I got the idea from Betty Crocker website. Here is a picture:

I know it doesn't look as nice as the one on the site but it's a start :)

Anyway, after everyone left, she ended up eating three cupcakes.. Well, she didn't actually eat all three. She did manage to eat one whole one and the other two she licked off all the icing. It was her birthday and she had alot of fun.. So did I.

I just couldn't help myself!

2008-03-08T09:01:00.007-05:00

If you are watching or have watched

American Idol this season,

then you know who the "son" is.

Do you see the resemblance? LOL

Remember Black Friday?

2008-03-07T12:04:00.010-05:00

I remember it well too. I used to shop at stores at 5am until I saw this website http://www.blackfriday.info/. Now instead of waiting on line trying to grab deals and pay for your item, you can stop here, click on a store's link and buy your item there. No waiting on line, no crowds, no people pushing you; just your pc, your chair and a drink. How simple is that.

This site lets you enter your email address so that they can email you their updates, deals and sales. They also let you know when new Black Friday ads are posted so you don't miss any deals. You can make a list, go to the site and plan your shopping.

The one site I did use on Black Friday thru Blwas Best Buy. I buy alot of things in that store and there was one particular item I wanted to buy for my digital camera. It was a SanDisk 2GB SD Memory Card for $29.99. But on Black Friday, it was only $14.99. That is a 50% savings! I was lucky to get it for that price because when I went to check back to try to buy another one for my sister, they were already sold out for that price. Oh well, at least I bought one for myself.

I love...........

2008-03-07T08:52:00.006-05:00

*Saving money
*My Senseo coffee machine
*Making lists
*Coffee
*My Food processor
*My Microwave
*My Washer and Dryer
*My Car
*My Family
*My Children
*My Husband
*My Camera
*CVS...LOL
*Coupons
*Pepsi
*Water
*Ice Cream
*Pizza
*My Bed
*Looking For Sales
*Watching Movies
*E.V.O.O. (Extra Virgin Olive Oil)
*Cinnamon
*Hot Chocolate
*Travelling
*Cruises
*Memories
*Dishwasher
*Stove
*Cable T.V.
*Cooking Shows

There's more about me but I'll stop here. My favorites are not in order. Hope you enjoyed my "loves". LOL

Happy Birthday

2008-03-07T07:36:00.011-05:00

to my daughter. She is 9 years old today. I can't believe she is 9 already. How time flies. March 7, 1999 in Yonkers, NY, we had a major snowstorm and I was in the hospital in labor. When she was born, everyone in my family and in my husband's family were thrilled. In my husband's side, she was the very first girl. My mother in law was in tears when she was told she had a granddaughter. My mother was even in tears also because since I had a son already, she knew I wanted a girl to make the pair and she always wanted the pair; a boy and a girl. I was also thrilled and relieved being that I had a normal delivery. My first child was a c-section so giving birth naturally was my goal. Don't get me wrong, there were some complications. They almost prepped me for a c-section but I said to myself, I can't go thru that pain again. I have to push this baby out. So when my doctor said, "Push like you are mad at your husband", guess what happened? I did exactly what she said, I pushed her out like I was mad...LOL.. Let me tell you, I was pushing for at least an hour before she said that, it was like, that's it, no more waiting. This baby has got to come out! What a relief it was to have that baby out. I was so relaxed and relieved at the same time. My husband was happy too. Especially since he was the first out of his two siblings to have a girl. I knew she was going to be his princess and till this day, she still is.

We love you babygirl!

My blog was APPROVED!!

2008-03-06T14:53:00.018-05:00

I am so happy.. I've been approved to earn some money at Pay Per Post. I've been trying for awhile to bring in some extra cash being that I'm a stay at home mom and money can be real tight at times. I can't believe it finally happened! I thought once you have a blog for at least 6 months, you're approved. It's certainly not like that. Yes, you have to have a blog for more then six months PLUS have at LEAST 10 posts within the last thirty days. That I did not have. So I have been a posting fool lately. I've been enjoying posting about my savings, mommy stuff and just general things that I go thru being a mom & a wife. There are some great things to write about too.
Check it out here: blog ads

I'm also a Community Leader at one of the message boards at Ivillage and that keeps me busy too while I'm online. So, to make some extra cash enjoying what I'm doing already is totally a big bonus for me.

So, the question is: What am I going to do with the extra cash? Pay bills, of course! Why else would I do this.. :) I would love to pay off our bills and get rid of our debt. I can't stand having debt that is unnecessary. I also think this will make my writing better because I've been out of school since 1996. Ouch! That is a long time ago! LOL So, practicing on my writing skills will be a big help as well as having the little bit of extra cash.

So, what are you waiting for, Sign Up!

Help Me!

2008-03-06T08:04:00.006-05:00

My 2 year old, soon to be 3 on Monday is SEVERELY attached to her pacifier. She knows that we don't let her have it during the day so she makes us suffer and she will whine like there is no tomorrow until she gets it. She usually does get it because who the heck wants to hear a 2 year old screamed their lungs out like they are being tortured or something. When my 8 year old (will be 9 tomorrow) was her age, we just hid it and told her she left it at grandma's house and they couldn't find it. It wasn't that bad at all. She was a bit whiny but after the second day, she was fine. The one thing she did not let go was her "blankie", which is ok.
Now my 2 year old has a pacifier and a blankie also. The two go hand in hand. No matter what! If she has her pacifier, which we call it "bo-bo", she needs to have her blankie too. It isn't any ordinary blankie, it looks like silk on one side and fleece on the other. She will NOT take anything else but that one. Here's a picture of it:

You see how the blanket is? She prefers the silky side and she rubs it when she is napping or sleeping for the night. She drags that blanket everywhere. At home, she is all over the place with it.

So, my question is: how do I ween her off the pacifier? I need ALL the help I can get. We tried several months ago and told her we couldn't find it and she started shaking and crying non-stop. It was awful, so we caved in.

Help me!

Sad News :(

2008-03-05T19:33:00.005-05:00

I heard on the radio while driving home that Patrick Swayze was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer early January. I was in total shock. The doctors expect him to have only 5 weeks to live. WHAT??!! That is terrible. But when I got home, I researched his name on the web and it was said on a site that the news-people exaggerated the time frame. He is going thru chemotherapy and is responding well.

Remember, he was the man every woman wanted in the movie, "Dirty Dancing" and he was great in Dirty Dancing too. He is a great dancer, actor and I also read that he is a genuinely good person. What a shame. I hope he beats this nasty and terrible disease. I would love to see him in more movies.

You know, the one thing I LOVE about him is that he has been with his wife since 1975. Can you believe that? A man that was in many movies with gorgeous women and he never left his wife. That makes him even better. In today's celebrity world, most of them

Here's a little explanation about Pancreatic Cancer:

Each year about 33,000 individuals in the United States are diagnosed with cancer of the pancreas (a large organ that lies horizontally behind the lower part of one's stomach), according to the Mayo Clinic. Calling the condition "one of the most serious of cancers," the facility's Web site also states, "Pancreatic cancer spreads rapidly and is seldom detected in its early stages, which is a major reason why it's a leading cause of cancer death."

I will have you in my prayers Mr. Swayze. God bless!

CVS Free-Spree

2008-03-05T07:48:00.010-05:00

Yes, I went to my local CVS stores yesterday. That's right, I said stores. I went to 3 different CVS stores so that I can use my coupons and find everything I was looking for. I even had one CVS store call another one 8 miles away just so that they can hold 2 Hershey's items b/c the one I was in didn't have anymore.

Here is what I got:

1ST. Transaction:

2 Boxes of CVS brand Cheese Crackers - 2/$3 ($3.00)
2 Boxes of CVS brand Chocolate Chip Macadamia Cookies - $1.99 ea. ($3.98)
1 Can of CVS brand Cashews - $2.88
1 Pack of Garnier Nutritioniste moist towelettes - $5.99
1 Gillette Fusion Phenom razor - $9.99

Total: $25.84 (+ 8 cents tax)

Coupons Used:
$2 off $10 from a CVS receipt
$2 off Garnier skin product (from a CVS store display)
$4 off Gillette Fusion razor
$5 off $15 CVS coupon from Wellness 360
$5 ECB's from buying Tresemme products last week
$2.99 ECB's from buying CVS Vitamin C from last week.
Coupons total: $20.99

New Total after coupons and ECB's: $4.93
I received $11 in ECB's from Garnier and Gillette razor.
So I made $6.07

2ND Transaction:

2 Boxes of Reese's Sweet and Salty granola bars 2/$5
2 Bags of Hershey's Chocolate eggs 2/$3
3 Mach 3 Disposable razors at $7.99ea. ($23.97)
1 Bag of Cadbury mini eggs $.99
2 Bags of Hershey's Kisses $.99ea. ($1.98)

Total: $34.94

Coupons Used:
2 - $1 off One box of Reese's ($2)
$1.50 off 3 bags of Hershey's candies
3 - $3.00 off Mach 3 razors ($9)
$5 off $15 CVS coupon from Wellness360
$5 ECB's from buying $10 worth of Garnier skin care products
$6 ECB's from buying the Gillette Fusion Phenom razor
Coupon total: $28.50

New Total after coupons and ECB's: $6.44

$60.86 worth of products for only $11.37!
I received $20.00 in ECB's from the razors and from Hershey's.
So I made $8.63

I made a total of $14.07......Not bad for researching..

Happy Shopping!

Big Give

2008-03-04T16:41:00.008-05:00

That is Oprah's new show on ABC on Sunday nights at 9PM. I always record Oprah on my DVR because most of her shows are full of knowledge and very entertaining. I especially LOVE when Dr. Oz is there, even though he makes me feel SO guilty for eating cookies, chocolate, chips and drinking soda.. All the bad stuff. Well anyway, Monday's show was different. One of my favorite actresses was on the show. Ms. Drew Barrymore! I loved her in E.T., Fever Pitch, 50 First Dates, All of the Charlie's Angels, The Wedding Singer, Duplex, Never Been Kissed and I'm really thinking the list can go on and on..lol.....but I'll stop here..

So, this is the big deal: She donated ONE MILLION dollars to World Hunger program. She is the real-life angel as an Ambassador Against Hunger for the World Food Program (WFP). Can you believe it?? I think that is so awesome. Check it out here.

p.s. Justin Long and Drew Barrymore are so darn cute together! :)

AVON

2008-03-04T07:36:00.006-05:00

I've always loved Avon; ever since I could remember. I guess it's because I grew up with Avon products around me. My mother used to buy it and still does, my grandmother used to buy it and still does and the rest of the women in my family. My mother even bought me my first perfume from Avon; it's called Odyssey. I love that smell even now. I even have a small bottle and hubby loves it when I have it on. It's a sweet, soft scent. Growing up in the Bronx, I always smelled it on many women on the streets. The scent reminds me of when I was a child. It's wonderful just thinking about the good ol' days. Sometimes I wish we had the ability to go back in time, like that show Journeyman. That was an awesome show. I never heard of it until a friend of mine told me about it.

Anyway, back to Avon. Ever since they started selling products online, I've been getting emails from them almost every week. I also buy from time to time when they offer free shipping and when they have the items I use on sale. Today's email was special. They are now selling products to save and improve women's lives worldwide. To stop Domestic Violence. They are donating 100% of the net proceeds to the "Avon Empowerment Fund" to end violence against women. Isn't that great? It is Avon's FIRST ever charity product. I wouldn't mind wearing it either because it is cute! Check it out here. They also have a "Speak Out Against Domestic Violence" Key Chain. 100% of the net proceeds are donated to support "Speak Out Against Domestic Violence." You can check that out here. I think I'm going to make an order this week and buy these two items to help my fellow women. I'm in whenever it comes to helping women. We have to look out for each other. If you see or think of any woman going thru domestic violence, please help them. Don't let them live their life in danger, because they may die. I know it sounds horrible, but it's the truth. Most women that go thru domestic violence ACTUALLY think that is normal. Help them understand they can get out.

CVS, again :)

2008-03-03T18:37:00.011-05:00

OK, I have to admit. I spent about 3 hours figuring out scenarios on how to use my coupons wisely and save the most money. To save and earn some money, I have to go to 4 different CVS stores. I know, it sounds crazy but as a SAHM, that seems logical to me. I'm all about saving money and using coupons. My family calls me the Coupon Queen. I almost always have a coupon for just about anything. I search blogs, the Internet and magazines for coupons. On Sunday, I buy at least 2 newspapers. Too bad I don't know anybody that buys the newspaper and never uses the coupons.. I wish I did. That's ok. I usually buy my newspapers at CVS and most of the time I use my trusty ECB's. I know I don't get any more ECB's back but that's fine with me.

So, after I was done with 4 different scenarios, I decided to hit one of the stores that is about 4 miles away from me. I was going for the Gillette razors (I have a $4.00 coupon and I get back $6 in ECB's) and a couple of tubes of Colgate Total but they didn't have the razors. I was like, Oh man!! I wasn't too upset because I know they get a delivery tonite so that means they will have many things stocked on the shelves, just for me..lol

Since I had a CVS coupon for their products; $2 off a $10 purchase off cvs brand, I went with scenario #4. They had their cookies on sale for $1.99 and their crackers on sale for $1.50 each so I went for that. I bought 2 boxes of Chocolate Chip Macadamia cookies, 1 box of Baked Cheese crackers and 1 box of Chocolate Chip cookies. I also bought a Tresemme Mousse for $4.69 because you get $5 in ECB's when you buy $10 worth of Tresemme products. I just needed to buy $4.79 worth to get my $5. I also bought CVS brand Vitamin C, which was $2.99 and you get $2.99 back in ECB's making it free. The total should've been $15.15 but since I had my 2 year old and I was making sure she didn't grab candy, I couldn't look at the screen, as usual. I thought it was a bit too much but I paid for it anyway after my coupons and ECB's. After I gave her the CVS coupon for $2, the $5 off $15 purchase (Click here to sign up and get your coupon) [ BIG Thanks to MoneySavingMom] and $5 ECB's, my real total was $9.14. I earned $7.99 in ECB's. So total oop (out of pocket) was $1.15.

FYI: ALWAYS check your receipt! I told the cashier, which was also the manager that I changed my mind about the Garnier Nutritioniste Gel cleanser because I left my coupon at home and that I'll buy it another day. Do you know when I got home I noticed the gel cleanser was in the bag.. At first; I said to myself, cool, I guess I got it for free but when I looked at my receipt, I noticed I was charged for it. I could not believe it! I specifically told her not to add it to my stuff. So now I have to go tomorrow to CVS and return it. I plan on purchasing it but I wanted to use my coupon.. It's worth $2 so after that, it would cost only $3.99... Much better..
Anyway, it was another great day and hopefully tomorrow will be even better!

FoodTV

2008-03-03T08:12:00.017-05:00

I absolutely LOVE the Food Network channel. I've been watching it since we had satellite tv in 2001. Emeril Live used to be one of our family shows. We had alot of fun watching it together. I think the show has changed. I don't forward to watching Emeril anymore. I guess I prefer the other shows such as 30 Minute Meals and the Barefoot Contessa. I've only made about a handful of recipes. I'm not really into going by recipes. It kinda confuses me, if that makes sense. I learned how to cook by watching my mother, my grandfather & grandmother. I also received lots of tips from my sister-in-law and mother-in-law. They're both great cooks. The only recipes I do love to follow is desserts. I guess it's because I love baking. It's alot fun for me.

I also love to see people cooking food. It relaxes me and it's kind of like free therapy for me too. My husband doesn't see the point of me watching food shows if I don't make anything they show on tv. I try to tell him it's relaxing for me but he still doesn't get it.. Oh well......as long as it's therapeutic for me, I don't care what he says. My favorite chefs are: Rachael Ray, Ina Garten, Paula Deen, Alton Brown, Giada De Laurentiis, Bobby Flay, and Sandra Lee. I also love watching Iron Chef America.

The one show I've been watching faithfully is The Ultimate Recipe Showdown. I love love new cooking shows! About the show: In this new prime time series hosted by Marc Summers and Guy Fieri, the Food Network searched for the Ultimate Recipe in six different categories: Chicken, Burgers, Comfort Foods, Cakes, Pasta and Cookies. After a nationwide recipe contest with thousands of entrants, the Food Network Kitchens selected nine finalists per category/episode. The finalists prepared their dish on set under the lights and pressure of a live audience. A panel of food experts sampled all of the dishes to determine whose was the best. See which winner will walk away with $25,000!

The winner of each category will also get their recipe served in the menu of T.G.I. Fridays. Check it out!

So far the winners are:

BURGERS

Island Ahi Burgers with Cilantro-Chile-Lime Sauce

CHICKEN

Rotisserie Chicken, with Fried Yucca Root

COMFORT FOODS

Boricua Plantain Sandwich (this sandwich looks so good, I might try making it)

Upcoming shows:

CAKES

PASTA

COOKIES

Be sure to stay tuned!! I know I will :)

CVS, I love that store!

2008-02-29T19:00:00.011-05:00

Today I went to CVS for some deals. As always, I look for products that will give me back ECB's. What are ECB's? They are Extra Care Bucks you earned when you buy any qualified item.

Here is what I bought:

Softsoap Body Wash - $3.99 ($1.00 ECB's)

Maybelline Volume Seduction Lip Gloss - $5.99

Purell with Aloe - $3.99 ($2.00 ECB's)

Cottonelle Wipes - $2.99

Softsoap liquid hand soap - $1.79 ($1.00 ECB's)

Gillette Fusion Shaving gel - $2.15 (clearance price)

Total: $20.90 Tax was 8.125% $1.05

After manufacturer coupons, cvs coupons and ECB's, my grand total was $8.60

Coupons I had:

.35 off for Softsoap hand soap

2.00 off Maybelline Seduction lip gloss

1.00 off Softsoap body wash

1.00 off Purell

1.00 off Gillette Fusion Shaving gel

4.00 off $20 CVS email coupon

4.00 ECB's

Total coupons and ECB's: $13.35

I also received $4.00 in ECB's. So total oop (out of pocket) was $4.60.

I say today was a good day. Hubby is happy. I'm happy.

Click here for more information about the Extra Care Bucks rewards. CVS

President's Speech

2008-02-29T07:58:00.006-05:00

Everytime I watch a new show, there has to be an interruption during the show at some time. Why can't it be before my show or even after my show. Everyone that knows me well knows I absolutely love Rachael Ray. I love her 30 minute meals show, her talk show and her travel shows on Food Network. I even went to the city to be in her audience back in September 2007. I had the best time. I went to see her with a cousin of mine and we had a ball.

Anyway, back to the interruption. It happened during the Rachael Ray show yesterday! I could NOT believe it. Five minutes into the show then POOF!! ABC annouced that President Bush will speak and to be honest; I don't even know what he said because I changed the channel.. I know, I know, I should hear what our president has to say.....NOT! Thank God for DVR. I ALWAYS record my fav. shows and the Rachael Ray show is definitely one of my favorites. So I went back to the show and fast forward the entire episode until 5 minutes before it was supposed to end, the show goes back on "in progress." WHAT the HECK??? I missed 50 minutes of my favorite show. I was so upset. Now I really don't give a crap what the president has to say. He can say it at night during the nightly news for all I care.

Are you a Freegan?

2008-02-28T12:40:00.006-05:00

What is a Freegan? A freegan is a person that focuses less on what is unnessasary to buy and just buy what is needed to live. Basically, they are people that live life to a minimum and go around their neighborhoods to salvage food and other items from the trash.

Before I saw the Oprah show a couple of days ago, I didn't even know the word existed. I have never heard of the word, to be quite honest. When I told hubby about it, he said he has never heard of that term either.

I see and understand the concept and I think they are doing a good thing for the environment by preventing more trash to fill our landfills in the country. There are many people that throw away things they no longer use. For some, those items are like treasures. I must admit, if I see something out on the curb and I see use for it, I may just put it in my car. I think there is nothing wrong with that. I can either give to a family member, donate to the local Goodwill or just keep it for myself. The last thing I took was a wooden bookcase. It wasn't in the best shape because it needed a good paint job but after I sanded the wood and spray painted it, it turned out beautiful. People could not believe I got that from someone else's curb. I wish I could post a picture of it but I gave it to my sister. She fell in love with it.

So you see, being a freegan isn't too bad.

If you want to read the whole article, click here: Oprah

School Delay

2008-02-28T08:42:00.007-05:00

Yup, the kids have a two hour delay because of the snow.. When will the snow end? I can't wait until the Spring time. The birds will be chirping, the sun will be shining, the flowers will be blooming, the sky will look beautiful, the air will feel so nice on your skin, and you can wear jackets. No gloves, no scarf, no bulky coats.

SPRING, where are you???? Please come as fast as you can.

Snow.......Where the heck is Spring????

2008-02-27T14:03:00.010-05:00

Here is my Wordless Wednesday.......... This is what I see when I step out my back door. Enjoy:

Starbucks Closing

2008-02-26T16:36:00.005-05:00

No, not really. They're just closing for 3 hours to improve the quality of the drinks that are made by baristas. Believe me, they need more training where I live. I love Starbucks but the one close by me has been slacking on the quality of the coffees. They should just call it water.

Anyway, take a look at the article by CNN:

Coffee break for Starbucks' 135,000 baristas
Coffee chain to close all 7,100 stores for employee training. Dunkin' Donuts offers 99 cent promotion.
Warning to Starbucks junkies who usually get a fix on their way home from work: You're out of luck on Tuesday.

Starbucks, which last week announced 600 layoffs, plans to temporarily close its 7,100 U.S. stores on Tuesday for three hours of employee training.

The coffee chain said the in-store training program which will begin at 5:30 p.m. local time, would foster enthusiasm in its 135,000 U.S. employees and improve the quality of drinks made by Starbucks baristas.
"We believe that this is a bold demonstration of our commitment to our core and a reaffirmation of our coffee leadership," said chief executive Howard Schultz in a statement.
Stores that normally stay open beyond 8:30 p.m. will resume service after the training session is finished.
But for those who still need their afternoon dose of caffeine, there is a cheap alternative.
Dunkin' Donuts - "to ensure that no coffee lover is denied a delicious espresso-based beverage" - announced that it will offer small lattes, cappuccinos or espresso drinks for a promotional price of 99 cents on Tuesday from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.

It's The Weekend

2008-02-15T18:38:00.005-05:00

Happy Friday!!! My kids have a four-day weekend, thanks to President's Day. So hopefully tomorrow I get to spend quality time with my hubby. I don't even remember the last time we did that. My 26 year old sister will be babysitting for us, so we're happy.. We going to celebrate Valentine's on Saturday....

My son says when he's old enough, he doesn't have a problem staying with the girls.. isn't he sweet? He's 11 and my only boy. He loves it when I call him my prince... He is and I have two princesses. =)

Long Time, No Blog

2008-02-14T20:26:00.007-05:00

I'm happy.. I made hubby a card and he brought home 3 cards after work.. One for me, one for my 2 yr. old daughter, Vanessa and one for my 8 yr. old daughter, Mylissa.. My son Steven was wondering where was his card but hubby said, "It's a girl holiday". He then said, "So why did mommy give you a card?" None of us really gave him an answer.. I know, it was rude.. So I decided to go out and run to CVS and get him a 99 cent card.. I went, got the card and stopped at Blockbuster to get some movies for hubby and me.. When I got home, I gave the card to my son (after I signed it in the car) and he was a happy camper.. He did ask about his turtles.. They were to expensive.. I'll get them tomorrow when it's 50% off.. Y aknow, everytime I hear chocolate turtles, it always reminds me of that show "Everybody hates Chris". It's such a cute and funny show..

I still think Valentine's is OVERRATED!!! Give me a card and I'll make you dinner and we'll call it even!

Hello 2008

2008-01-01T21:31:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to ME!!!

2007-12-16T13:12:00.000-05:00

So, it's my birthday today. I had breakfast in bed made by my wonderful husband. I had bacon, eggs, hash browns, toast, orange juice and coffee.. It was PERFECT!! Afterwards, we watched movies while my MIL watched the kids.. Later my hubby or my MIL will be making dinner... I can't wait..hehehe

I think I'm having one of the best birthdays ever thanks to my hubby. :)

By the way, I am now 33 years young...lol

SNOW!

2007-12-07T17:12:00.000-05:00

I love the sight of the snow but I HATE, HATE, HATE driving in the snow. What should've took me a half hour, took me 2 hours to get home. WTF??? It was so slippery, wet, and disgusting out there. If we drove 20 MPH, it was too fast. I was driving 5-10 MPH the whole way home..

AHHHHH!!! I am so glad to be home!! Now what's for dinner????

I love saving MONEY

2007-12-06T18:50:00.000-05:00

This past week has been all about coupons and saving money. On Monday, I went to CVS and bought this:

*a pack of Pampers ($8.99)
*2 packs of Garnier Nutrisse hair dye ($8.00)
*Fusion razor ($9.99)
*CVS brand cough drops ($.99)
*2 prescriptions that were $3.00 each ($6.00)
*1 Garnier Nutrisse Nutri-Pure cream scrub ($5.99)

With coupons and sales, I spent $31.00 and got back $12.00 in Extra Care Bucks. So total was $19.00.. Not bad, considering a pack of Pampers were $8.99 on sale and the two hair dyes were 2 for $8.00. Those two items together are $17.00.

Today was another visit to CVS. This is what I bought:

*2 bottles of Febreeze Air Effects air freshener
*4 pack of Charmin toilet paper
*1 pack of Cottonelle wipes
*1 pint of half and half
*1 bottle of Dawn dishwashing soap

For $.31, after using the $12.00 from the ECB's from Monday.

I love saving MONEY!!!!

Wordless Wednesday

2007-12-05T17:37:00.001-05:00

This is how my 2 year old plays with her dollies..

Yummy Chai Tea Recipe

2007-12-05T17:35:00.003-05:00

1 tablespoon fennel seed
6 green cardamom pods
12 whole cloves 1 cinnamon stick
1 (1/4-inch) piece ginger root, peeled and thinly sliced
6 black peppercorns
7 cups water
2 tablespoons Darjeeling tea
4 tablespoons brown sugar
1 cup milk

In a medium saucepan, combine fennel seed, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon stick, ginger root, peppercorns and water. Boil for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and steep for 10 minutes. Add the tea, bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer 5 minutes. Strain mixture, discard spices and return the tea to the saucepan. Stir in the brown sugar and milk. Serve immediately.

Sick.................again

2007-12-05T09:19:00.000-05:00

This time last year I got sick. I didn't know what was wrong with me until I went to the hospital. I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. Doctors also call it Graves Disease.

Hyperthyroidism is: an over functioning of the thyroid gland. The thyroid, the master gland of metabolism, located in the neck area below and behind the Adam's apple, is part of the endocrine system. Thyroid hormone regulates the body's use of energy. When a thyroid is over functioning, the gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Because thyroid hormone controls many bodily functions, this increase in the thyroid hormone level causes many bodily functions, such as heart rate or blood pressure, to increase. Digestion can speed up, and overall, symptoms such as weight loss, diarrhea, insomnia, and anxiety point can all point to an abnormally fast metabolism. It also means that my thyroid produces more iodine then what my body needs.

This is what I suffer from: weight loss, hair loss, increased heart rate, nervousness, feeling very hot, frequent bowel movements & menstrual irregularities. My doctor prescribed propanolol for my heart rate (it decreases it) and propylthiouracil (PTU) to stop my thyroid from making too much hormones. When I look for symptoms and reasons why many women get this, the major factor is STRESS. I have 3 kids between the ages of 2 and 11. Potty training, being a SAHM, kids not behaving and having alot of bills make me very stressed. I try not to be stressed out but I just can't help it. Even though I hate taking pills, I think I need something to help me calm down. I'll just have to wait until my thyroid levels get better.

Pray for me and wish me luck, please ;)

Cheerful Sugar Socks.......hehehe

2007-12-03T22:57:00.000-05:00

Christmas Elf Name

My Christmas Elf Name is

Get your Christmas Elf Name at JokesUnlimited.com

Potty Training

2007-12-03T10:42:00.000-05:00

Why is it that when I tell my 2 year old daughter to go potty, she goes in her panties?? I don't know if it's because I have an overactive thyroid or that I'm exhausted all the time, but I just have no patience at all! Why is that? I'm not that old, I'm 32. I should be able to have alot of energy but I don't. :( I wish this would change.

Please anyone, God; help me potty train this girl... Please... Diapers are so expensive!

Snowy Sunday

2007-12-02T08:47:00.000-05:00

When that time of the month and kids don't mix

2007-12-01T15:41:00.001-05:00

I am so stressed out with EVERYTHING!!!!! Why can't I get 30 minutes of uninterrupted time by myself??? Why? Am I not a good, derserving person? Why does eveything have to bother me? My kids, this house, the laundry can WAIT until I'm good and ready to deal with you all!

Dang, I really hate having my period! It makes me feel like a monster!!!!

Trojan

2007-11-27T08:28:00.002-05:00

When you hear the word trojan, what do you think of? A condom, right? Well, that wasn't the case yesterday. I have my tubed tied anyway...hehehehehe

That is what I had in my computer. I had 7 Trojans and 10 Viruses in my pc. It was trying to infect alot of things. I noticed yesterday morning when I went into my blog to write a new post but couldn't because I had no control over the mouse or the keyboard. Thank goodness my husband was home b/c when I told him, he immediately unplugged the system. When he turned it back on, he put it on safe mode so he can do a virus scan using TuneUp Utilities. It was on for 2 1/2 hours. Afterwards, I restarted the computer thinking it was all better. NOT! Again, the pc was doing things all by itself. So, I unplugged it and ran XSoftspy. That was another hour but this time, it found and removed over 25 viruses and trojans out of my computer. I couldn't believe it. I know exactly who let that happen.

Who, you ask? It was my 8 year old daughter. She loves to be on the computer and click on those pop-ups, even though I have the pop-up stopper. So both of my kids are banned from the pc for a long time. That is why I want my OWN laptop.. I can't stand when other people contaminate my pc, even if it is my own kids.

3 A.M.

2007-11-26T07:58:00.001-05:00

Why did I name this post 3 A.M.? That is the time I found on my 11 yr. old son's alarm clock when I switched it over to the wakeup time. I said to myself, "Why on earth would he put his alarm clock to wake him up at 3 A.M."? This is why:

Does that make my son ADDICTED to XBox? I think so. So, his T.V. and XBox will be moved to the basement this week. He can be monitored carefully. I'm really surprised and lucky because he gets excellent grades. So, hopefully he won't go downhill after his Dad does the moving.

I'm starving! How about another Thanksgiving feast?

2007-11-24T11:53:00.001-05:00

We ate Turkey, Arroz con gandules, canned cranberry, mashed potatoes, homemade gravy, green beans, parsnips and carrots, ruttabager, pernil and onions in sauce. This is what happens when Puerto Rico meets Ireland:)

For dessert, we had brownies, jello, Pumpkin pie, Coconut custard pie, flan and Lemon Meringue pie.

My favorites were the rice, mashed potatoes, stuffing and gravy.. As for the desserts, my favs were Lemon Meringue and Flan.... YUM!

Hope everyone had a nice

2007-11-23T09:51:00.001-05:00

Thanksgiving Day.

My Wednesday Wish list!

2007-11-21T08:43:00.001-05:00

So I thought I'd write a wish list because 1. My birthday is coming up in December, 2. Christmas is almost here and 3. My sister asked me what I wanted for my birthday. So I thought about it and if I got these things, I would be a happy camper.

Spa services (anything from there; back rub, facial, cellulite removal..lol)

KitchenAid Stand Mixer

Fog lights for my new car (installed)

A LAPTOP

New perfume ( I haven't smelled any perfume yet so I may have to visit Macy's)

Brown leather jacket/coat - 3/4 length, preferably

Keurig Coffee maker - B60

CASH! lol

A starbucks gift card (so I won't feel guilty paying for those designer lattes)

A giftcard from my mall

New kitchen - Ok, that may be too much of a wishful thought here!

Ok, I know it's a fact of my life that I will NOT get all or most of these things but it is a wish list. So it's my perogative to wish for whatever I please :)

Kids say the funniest things

2007-11-19T18:36:00.002-05:00

I had to share this with my blogger friends. When my 11 year old son came home from school, he looked at me and said, "Mom, you live de-ja-vu everyday. You do the same things everyday. Don't you get tired of that?" I told him, "You know what, I never really thought of it in that way, but you're right. I guess I'm used to it." I laughed afterwards.

I guess I do what needs to be done, most of the time without complaining.. I do complain inside my head though...hehehehe

Who has to know anyway! =)

Venting: Friends

2007-11-09T10:24:00.001-05:00

I freaking love this song... I know he talks about boyfriend/girlfriend stuff but it's the same concept between friends. Check this video out!

Friends.. What a wonderful word. Some people cherish it and some people bash it. I consider friendship to be very special. I don't have many friends but the friends that I do have really mean alot to me. Even though some don't call me as often as I would like, I still call them to let them know I was thinking of them and still care for them. It's hard to be in a one sided friendship when you are the only one that keeps calling and not having them do the same. But I guess that's life, a busy life at that.

I once had a best friend but she betrayed me. She crossed that boundary between husband and wife. I don't think a husband should talk about inappropiate things such as sex to another woman, let alone her best friend. Yes, that is what happened. I found the emails (They chatted on the internet thru instant messaging and emails) and she tried to deny it but the evidence was there, in black and white. When I confronted him, he claimed it wasn't a big deal. So I told him to put myself in his shoes and stated how would he feel if it was his best friend and me in the same situation? When he thought about that, he quickly changed how he felt and then apologized. What a typical jerk, right? Now I've got him by the balls; excuse my french..lol Yea, I laugh now but when it happened I was not laughing at all.

Anyway, the moral of this post is, NEVER TRUST ANYONE BECAUSE THEY CAN STAB YOU IN THE BACK WHEN YOU'RE NOT LOOKING! Did I make that clear enough? That is why I always have my guard up.. Ladies, Never underestimate the power of love because if the opportunity is there, they might just take it.

So, if you have any comments, questions or anything, please feel free to do so. :)

PS.. If you wanted to know, I am no longer friends with that individual because I no longer trust her and trust is a major part in a friendship................and marriage. I also lost a bit of trust with my husband but since it didn't go any further then emails, I'm trying my best to regain that trust that was lost.

Are toys NOT safe anymore??

2007-11-09T10:18:00.002-05:00

First, it was toys that were made in China because of excessive lead, then they said that some toys that were made in Mexico contain too much lead, and now they are making toys that can make kids drunk and go into a coma????? Are we NOT safe in America when it comes to our kids toys??? I don't know about Christmas and toy shopping. I may have them play with just wood and paper this year.....I know they wouldn't enjoy that but oh well.....at least they're safe!

Check this article out:

Aqua Dots Recall

Spin Master is recalling about 4.2 million Aqua Dots craft kits because the "coating on the beads that causes the beads to stick to each other when water is added contains a chemical that can turn toxic when many are ingested."

How toxic? According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, "children who swallow the beads can become comatose, develop respiratory depression, or have seizures." Australian authorities, where the toy has been sold under the day Bindeez, report that it contains a chemical that can break down into GHB, which is also known as the date-rape drug. And all of this time we were worried about lead paint on toys...

If you have this toy, you should take it away from your kids and can contact Spin Master for a replacement toy. Keep in mind that there are several kinds of Aqua Dots toys though, including the Aqua Dots Pet Pals and Aqua Dots Studio Playset, and it looks like they are all included in the recall.

It's the weekend.......hopefully with no accidents.

2007-11-09T09:03:00.001-05:00

Why are toddlers so accident-prone? Two days ago, my 2 year old climbed onto the sofa and then onto the bay window and then it all happened so fast. I had no idea how she flipped back on the sofa and flipped again to the floor. But before she hit the floor, she banged her head on the table. I saw the whole thing but managed to just watch in terror because I couldn't move. Why is that? I felt like I was stuck in La-La land and couldn't save her from a terrible fall that left her with a goose egg on her forehead. I immediately turned into this crazed woman screaming and hollering at the other two because they were sitting right next to her and did nothing. They scattered like mice afterwards. I guess they were scared too. After they went into their rooms, I called the doctor. I spoke to a nurse there and she said to put an ice pack on her head for fifteen minutes. That was the longest fifteen minutes ever! Afterwards, I put some Vicks on her head and the swelling went down. I mean she still had a bump but it didn't look like a goose egg.. Thank God.

Today, she still has a band-aid on her booboo. She loves band-aids, especially when they have characters on them. I was like that too :)

Part II: Sale

2007-11-08T09:22:00.001-05:00

I posted before about how much I love sales, right? Well, a few days ago I went to Walgreens ready with coupons and looking ONLY for sale products. Well, I ended up leaving that store with:

Libby's Pumpkin $.99 (sale)
2 Packs of Hefty's storage/freezer bags $2.79 each
Gerber oatmeal cereal $1.99
2 packs of Wrigley's gum $1.09 each
Children's Tylenol $5.00 (sale)
Reynold's aluminum foil $.99 (sale)

Total: $16.63

Now what gets me so happy is that I left paying just $7.75. With coupons and sales, that was my total. Can you believe that?

Where's the next sale??? I'll hunt you down! :)

Wordless Wednesday

2007-11-07T06:50:00.002-05:00

Sale, Sale, Sale............Don't you just love that word?

2007-11-06T08:43:00.001-05:00

I don't post regularly because when I do have blogger opened, my mind goes blank. During the day, I could think of a million things to blog about but once I get to my computer, I can't think of anything. Is that called Mommy Brain? Stress Brain? There has to be a name for that because I've read other blogs and I'm not the only one, thank goodness!

Anyway, I love saving money. I love a sale and coupons.. My hubby and kids call me the coupon queen because I hate paying full price for anything! So when I read my friend's blog, http://mami-dearest.blogspot.com/, I saw that she saved quite a bit from http://www.victoriassecret.com/. Now even though I love that store, I rarely go in there b/c it's expensive. When you're a full time SAHM, everything is expensive so that is why I love sales and coupons.

So here's the thing: You buy any sweater, preferably on sale or clearance; mine was on sale for $19, add item #3F-203514 (scarf set) and choose your color (red, black, green, yellow and I think pink) then enter your information, go to checkout and enter all of the codes below: SHADE4 (free lip gloss) , SHINE (free beauty rush set), GIFTSET (scarf set), and if this is your first purchase add FA78137 ($5 off purchase (If this is not your first online purchase with them just enter a different email address) I did this yesterday and my total was $19.95! No lie! It was great! Thanks Sitel!

So today I get an email from http://www.gap.com/ and they'ew having a birthday sale. 10% off and free shipping! So I bought my 2 yr. old a coat, gloves, hat and a scarf and saved $14.30. I am now on a hunt for sales. Simply enter: B78QR3RQBFHN at checkout.

So if you've got a sale, let me know! Happy Shopping!

Brrrrrrr

2007-11-03T19:57:00.001-04:00

is retiring for the Season :)

Damn, it's cold outside! Wow, this cold air just snuck up behind me with a vengeance. My daughter had soccer today and even though I had a tank top, a t-shirt, a fleece sweater, a coat and a fuzzy fleece blanket over me, I was still freezing. I am so glad Soccer is over. Until next year!

54 DAYS UNTIL

2007-11-01T08:22:00.001-04:00

Christmas.... AHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!

Terrible Two's?

2007-10-04T23:28:00.001-04:00

So I go to Walmart today to get some groceries and while standing on line for cold cuts, my 2 yr. old tries to yank my shirt down. I gently took her hand away and said no baby, don't do that. She yelled out, "Mommy, I wanna see boobies!" I was like, "Shhhhhhh, no baby, be quiet", You don't do that to mommy... Then she proceeds to say, "But mommy, I wanna see boobies!!" Really loud.. I was mortified. I tried to play it off like she didn't say that but I knew the guy behind me heard her.

Oh, the joys of toddlerhood!

It's been awhile

2007-09-21T10:25:00.001-04:00

Well, it's been awhile since the last time I "blogged". Alot has happened since then. Let's see. We got rid of our minivan, which was a 98 Ford Windstar. That was a piece of crap even though it took us everywhere. Here's a general picture:

Though it wasn't white; it was an awful purple color... Yes, I know..YUK...

But now, we upgraded to a 2006 Kia Sorento which is so much fun to drive. It's a normal color, Silver and we love it. Here's a general picture:

It's alot smaller but it suits us just well. We're a family of five and that is what fits. It's also affordable which we need right now since I am a SAHM.

Kids started school on Sept. 5th and it has been great... No fighting, no bickering & alot of mommy and me time with my two yr. old.. It's great. My 8 yr. old daughter started soccer and that has been alot of fun.. It's her first year so she is learning all the time. We went to Lancaster, PA for the weekend last week to visit family. That was a very relaxing weekend, which we needed. I also went to the Rachael Ray show with my cousin and that was ALOT of fun. Here's what we got:

You gotta go. It is worth standing on line for 2 hours....

So, that's it for now.. I have to attend to my 2 yr. old.

6th Anniversary - 9/11/01

2007-09-11T13:34:00.001-04:00

Today marks the anniversary of September 11, 2001. A day no one will ever forget. It is a day of sadness and a day to mourn all those lives that were lost. I still remember where I was when the first plane hit the first tower. I was still in bed with my 2 yr. old daughter when the phone rang. It was my husband. He asked are you watching tv. I said no, I was sleeping. He then said, turn on the tv; a plane just hit one of the twin towers. I said what?! So I turned on the tv and sure enough one of the towers were on fire. I was shocked. I said to myself, who would fly a plane into a building. Maybe the pilot was drunk or lost control of the plane. I thought of many things. As I kept on watching, I heard more screaming. Another plane hit the other tower. I was like what the fuck is going on? I was so scared. I have alot of family members that work in the city and I was getting really concerned at this point. I was really upset when all the phones went down. I could not get in contact with my sister who works in the Empire State Building. I was so worried.

To make a long story short, thank God I didn't know anybody who lost their life that day. I do know people that know other people that lost family, which is still very sad.

Do I feel safer now then before September 11th? No, I don't. I felt safer before that horrible date. I just hope we can solve these problems before anything more horrible happens. May all the lives that were lost rest in peace.

God bless America!

Good News!!

2007-08-02T22:23:00.000-04:00

Here I am again. Everyone is asleep except for me. I get like that sometimes. I'm tired but I can't get sleepy. It makes sense to me even though it looks like it doesn't. hehehehe

Today is a great day for me. Why you ask? Hubby finally put my washer and dryer in my kitchen. I've been waiting nearly a year for that to happen. I already washed three loads and it felt great washing clothes in the kitchen. Now I don't have to wait until the kids watch my 2 yr. old so that I could go to the basement and put a load in... YAY!!! I tried taking a picture of the "laundry closet" but my batteries were dead. So, maybe tomorrow I'll post it.

So, now my hubby has to install the closet doors so that no one knows that we actually have a washer and dryer in the kitchen, he needs to put in new floors, cabinets and countertops.. I wonder how long I have to wait for all that to be done...... Hmmmm, I hope not long.. I'm getting quite tired of pulling food in and out of plastic boxes, which I call them my ghetto cabinets...LOL I should take some pics of that too.

PS. What is up with all those blogger contests and stuff? Can anyone tell me how and where to enter???? Thanks :)

11 Days later............

2007-08-01T20:44:00.001-04:00

I haven't had the time to post anything in my blog but here I am. It's almost 9pm and I'm exhausted and sleepy. I just finished painting a closet that will have my washer and dryer. I can't wait!! But painting is really hard work, especially when you don't do that type of work everyday. I don't mind it but it's the setting up, cutting the edges and corners and painting the trim that gets me tired.

So, the next room for me to paint is the living room and my son's room, in that order. I can't wait until my son's room is finally done. Anyone wanna help? LOL

So over 10 days has past and no posts? Well, alot has happened to me since the last post. I will just list them instead of writing all the details.

I got pulled over by a NY State trooper on Saturday afternoon (7/21)
Because of a lapse on our car insurance (I forgot to send the check and geico cancelled the insurance)
I got pulled over again by a NY state trooper on Saturday night (7/21)
Because the radar picked up my cancelled insurance.. What luck do I have???
I do have some luck b/c both cops didn't give me a ticket, jut a warning.
They told me to take care of that lapse Monday morning at DMV.
Tuesday morning, I went to DMV and paid the lapse. $160.00 because I didn't have car insurance for 20 days. $8 a day... My gosh!!!!
I feel good now that I won't get pulled over by anyone :)
Thursday evening, hubby gets pulled over by a NY state trooper.... What luck!!!! Geez, leave us alone already!
Ok, he has luck b/c he also didn't get a ticket just a warning.
Why did he get pulled over when I paid DMV $160??? Well, apparently I have to pay $160 for EACH vehicle that is under hubby's name. WHAT????
Friday morning, I go to DMV and pay the $160 to get everything legal now.
Total penalty costs: $320.00! Ain't life a bitch sometimes!
Driving without worry from the NYS troopers: Priceless.....LOL Well, with the exception of speeding..hehehehehehehehehehe
7/28- I drove home with a flat tire without even knowing it until I got home 35 minutes later.... OMG!!! I'm in need of a new car; Definitely! Anyone want to donate? =)

So, you see. I've been quite busy with life and its tribulations.... What can I say; Shit happens!

Hope August brings us great luck. Wish us luck :)

It's Friday and we have beautiful weather

2007-07-20T19:53:00.001-04:00

This was yesterday afternoon. It was pouring and very humid. The air felt so sticky.

The pictures above were from today. What a difference. It was a beautiful 78 degrees. Cool, breezy and not humid at all. Here are my two daughters having so much fun.

The best invention they ever made for kids who loves bubbles. All you need is 6 AA batteries, this bubble machine and of course bubbles. All you have to do is step back and have fun with your kids.

It is now 70 degrees and breezy outside. That is my kind of weather.

On another note, today was my day. I made community leader where I post on Ivillage. It's totally volunteer but you get nice perks. The CL there (my friend) had to step down b/c she was just so busy with her job and family. She needed a break. So I was glad to fill the position for her. I hope I do well and have alot of fun with it. She held the board up so well. I would love to do the same.

Women go thru so much pain

2007-07-19T17:19:00.001-04:00

Here I am, in pain because of Aunt Flo. I really hate her b/c ever since I got my tubes tied in 05', the pain is extremely bad. It is so unbearable. Not even motrin takes it away. My period is not like it used to be. Before kids, I had no pain whatsoever. Now my back hurts, I get bad cramps, I feel nauseous, I don't get hungry, I get lazy and feel exhausted. It's like I'm a good for nothing. It's almost 5:30pm and I have not cooked dinner yet. Hubby made dinner yesterday so I feel bad if I call him at work and ask him to bring something for dinner. I should at least be able to cook dinner for my family. I feel like laying in bed with my covers and watch tv until I fall asleep.. I would love that right now. But here I am blogging, again. I'm either reading blogs or writing in mine. Why can't I have a chef when Aunt Flo visits? You know, Aunt Flo should visit with a chef for at least two days. That would be so great. What do you think? Do you agree?

I know, I know, some wishful thinking. Hey, a girl can dream! OK, I did take out some frozen chicken and I bet they are thawed already. Let's see what I come up with. Later............

Edited to add: I decided to make chicken stew with potatoes & carrots and white rice.. YUM.. My kitchen smells so good....

Back again from the real world

2007-07-18T10:15:00.001-04:00

Here I am, drinking my cafe con leche and eating a whole wheat bagel with cream cheese. I also got my "friend" today. I feel so awful, moody, tired, bitchy, just-want-to-lay-down-and-flip-thru-channels & I feel like doing shit today. You know what? I can't do nothing. I have my daughter's speech therapist coming at 11:15am and I have to clean up the normal messes my 2 yr. old makes. I try to clean every morning and every night but last nite wasn't a good night. I felt to miserable and now I know why.

I've been away from blogging for a bit b/c I've been reading other blogs. There's alot of blogs that are so interesting. I can't keep away from them. Hubby gets upset b/c sometimes I would rather read blogs then spend time with him... It's not that I don't like spending quality time with my hubby, I love it. I love that alone time with him. We don't get much of that since we have 3 active kids.

Anyway, things have happened in the last two weeks. Hubby took our 8 & 10 yr. old camping with some cousins (it was just overnight), we started cleaning our basement and found mold down there (yukk) & my MIL is finally gone. Hubby admitted to me that he hates when people are over. I don't know why. I like having people over here most of the times. I get lonely being here with the kids ALL DAY LONG. But that is what happens when you're a SAHM :)

Here are some pics of them camping:

The orange tent is ours

Here they are roasting marshmallows(Hubby is not in the pic)

9 WORDS WOMEN USE

2007-07-07T10:24:00.001-04:00

1.) Fine: This is the word women use to end an argument when they are right and you need to shut up.

2.) Five Minutes: If she is getting dressed, this means a half an hour. Five minutes is only five minutes, if you have just been given five more minutes to watch the game before helping around the house.

3.) Nothing: This is the calm before the storm. This means something, and you should be on your toes. Arguments that begin with nothing usually end in fine.

4.) Go Ahead: This is a dare, not permission. Don't Do It!

5.) Loud Sigh: This is actually not a word, but is a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. A loud sigh means she thinks you are an idiot and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here and arguing with you about nothing. (Refer back to #3 for the meaning of nothing.)

6.) That's Okay: This is one of the most dangerous statements a woman can make to a man. That's okay means she wants to think long and hard before deciding how and when you will pay for your mistake.

7.) Thanks: A woman is thanking you, do not question, or faint. Just say you're welcome.

8.) Whatever: Is a women's way of saying %#$* YOU!

9) Don't worry about it, I got it: Another dangerous statement, meaning this is something that a woman has told a man to do several times, but is now doing it herself. This will later result in a man asking "What's wrong?". For the woman's response refer to #3.

Family

2007-07-03T11:13:00.001-04:00

Well, last night my mom told me she has type-2 diabetes. She is now on medication and has to monitor her blood twice a day. I am so scared. My dad died of diabetes and now my mom has it too. That means I am in high risk to get it and/or my kids are at high risk also. I felt so bad when I heard my mom's voice. She's part to blame too.. She drinks sugar with her coffee, yes, you read that right. She puts about 1/2 cup of sugar in her coffee and has a major sweet tooth. I've been telling her to relax on her sugar intake but she never listens to me. She is a very stubborn lady. She also takes medications that can cause diabetes that her therapist prescribed to her so it's like a double whammy for her. I just hope she takes good care of herself. I have 3 kids that I have to care for and that is hard, so I can only imagine taking care of 3 kids plus an adult. I don't think I have the energy for that. Having an overactive thyroid, my body goes thru its own workout so I get tired very easily.

With that said, I have so much to do b/c I am having people over for the 4th of July. I told everyone to bring beer b/c I am providing all of the food. It's the least they can do. So, hopefully I will be back tomorrow.

Peace!

Have you seen a floating pool?

2007-06-30T10:21:00.001-04:00

Brooklyn, Your New Floating Swimming Pool Is Almost Ready Now. On Wednesday, Independence Day, if all goes well, a dream born over a quarter century ago, a floating pool built on a barge, will finally be ready for bathers and bobbing off the Brooklyn waterfront in Brooklyn Heights. Eventually, the site will be part of Brooklyn Bridge Park. The pool is 25 meters long, or just over 82 feet, is 4 feet deep and has 7 lanes. Admission will be limited to 175 and will be free.

The Floating Pool Lady, as it is called, has not been easy or cheap to put together.

So far, it has spent $4 million in donations and Ms. Buttenwieser has spent $1 million in borrowed money to pay for the pool. A shuttle will be available to take people to the pool, with stops at Cadman Plaza and Borough Hall and in Brooklyn Heights. And shiny gangways will reach from shore to barge. There are locker rooms. The pathways to the pool from the locker rooms pass large translucent seascape murals. Next comes a spray-pad, where children can get wet without swimming, and a sitting area for adults. Lifeguards will watch over the swimmers, and in the background is the Manhattan skyline, a view all can behold.

Wow, isn't that cool??? I wonder how long that will last. They once had a garbage barge and that sank. Hopefully this won't sink...lol.. I know that sounds kinda evil... Really though, I hope it doesn't sink. I would like to visit that one day and take a look at the Manhattan Skyline, which is so beautiful. I love living in NY even though it's so damn expensive.

Freaky Friday

2007-06-29T08:43:00.002-04:00

Yes, its Friday!!!! It is a beautiful, cool 63 degrees in Dutchess County, NY... They say its going to be 79 degrees today.. I am so glad b/c it has been too hot and humid the last few days.

Yesterday I went shopping with my 3 kids and went to Uno's afterwards with my SIL and her son. It was nice not worrying about dinner. Sometimes I can't stand cooking dinner. It is so time consuming. By the time we got home, it was 9pm. I couldn't believe it. Days are so long that time just flies by. I wonder if that happens to anyone else?

Anyway, I'm going shopping again with my kids. I have a b-day party to go to on Saturday and I want to get a gift for the b-day girl. I should be getting ready but instead I'm here posting on my blog. Oh well, it's good therapy for me.

Pool + Sun = Tired Mami

2007-06-28T09:09:00.000-04:00

I am so tired this morning. I took my kids to my SIL's house yesterday and we were in her pool for a couple of hours. It was so refreshing but what it does to a mom's body is not so refreshing. Why is it that when you spend a day in the pool, the next day you are extremely tired? We were in the pool sometime last week and the same thing happened to me. The next day I felt like shit. I have so much to do and I can't do anything b/c I am so exhausted.. I hope when I drink my cafe con leche, I will feel much better.

The picture above is not her pool but it is very similar. I would love a pool but it's too expensive right now. With me being home and only hubby working, it is really hard to buy those luxuries. We can't even take a vacation. I would have loved to go to DisneyWorld this year.. I really need a vacation from "real" life.

Anyway, I've been reading other mommy blogs and I have to say, I feel like my blog is so boring.. I need to liven it up a bit. Since we're not taking a "real" vacation this year, I should tell hubby to buy me a laptop so that when I get that urge to write in my blog, I can.. Is that too much to ask for?? Nah, I don't think so. Let's see.

Kids cleaning their own rooms

2007-06-26T13:37:00.002-04:00

So, here I am again; two days in a row.. Now that's a record for me. It is 92 degrees (really hot & humid) and the weather people said there's an air quality advisory until 10 pm. When you go outside, you can hardly breathe.. It's bad out there.. That is why I declared today cleaning day. That also goes for my two of my three kids. They are 8 (DD) and 10 (DS). My 2 yr. old (DD) is taking her nap so that I could wash clothes.

So, is it bad that I'm having my kids clean their own rooms? I know plenty of mothers that clean their kids rooms and have their kids either watch them clean or have them play in another room while they are cleaning the rooms.. I was like that. I changed b/c since I don't make the mess, why should I clean it. Right? Well, that is my motto. When I was their age, I cleaned and kept my room cleaned so they can do the same. Kids nowadays are so damn spoiled, it's sickening. Another thing; you can't spank your child b/c if do, you can go to jail....yet, if the kids hit their parents, what is done to them???? NOT A DAMN THING!! I admit, I spank my kids or should I say smack them on the mouth when they get too smart-mouthed. Kids should respect their parents at all times, no matter what. If they get out of line, they need to be shown who's boss. When I was a kid, I always heard this saying, "Kids should be seen, not heard". I wonder who made that quote up. I like it.. It makes so much sense to me. My son can get a bit too mouthy. He's only 10 and he thinks b/c he's the oldest, he can set rules..

Yea right!!! I'm the boss in this house, don't forget it kiddies!!!

What a great weekend

2007-06-25T18:51:00.002-04:00

My family (hubby, my 3 kids, my sister and her bf) and I went to Hersheypark on Friday. Even though we got there late (3pm), we had a great time and left the park when it closed. I have pics that I will post here but they're still in my camera. I am still in that "weekend mode" so yes, I am being lazy.

Back to my weekend. We stayed in Lancaster, PA b/c that is where my family lives. My dad is also buried in Lancaster, the Amish county. He died on August 18, 1994 b/c of complications with diabetes. That's another post though since his anniversary is coming up.

Anyway, on Saturday we went to visit family after I went to the cemetary to put flowers on my father's grave. I haven't seen them since my dad's funeral. It was great to feel wanted and loved. Even though its been a very long time since I last saw them, they welcomed me with opened arms and some good food. That was my hubby's first time there and he even felt like he was in his family's house. I love that about my family. It doesn't matter if you are not related to them, they will still feed you like you were.

After a couple of hours, we decided to go back to the hotel and rest abit. Hubby wanted to watch tv and cool off a bit being that the house we were in did not have an a/c. So we did just that. My sister and her bf also came back to our room.

After about an hour, we called my cousin and asked him if we should get anything for a bbq at his house........he didn't care. He said whatever you want to bring, go right ahead. So we bought some burgers, hot dogs, steaks, buns and chips. I saw my cousins I haven't seen awhile. It is nice to see long-lost family and reunite again. It feels like we never lost touch with one another. By the time we got to the hotel, it was almost midnight!! I couldn't believe it.. We had so much fun that time just flew by. We talked, we laughed, we ate, we drank; we had a ball.

Easter

2007-05-01T09:06:00.000-04:00

I had a family gathering for Easter and it turned out pretty nice.. It was Vanessa's first Easter egg hunt and she had a ball. I got so tipsy with two coronas. I am not a big drinker so two was alot for me. I had a good time too. We were laughing, joking, eating & drinking. No drama whatsoever! =)

It's about time I write again!!! :p

2007-03-28T10:41:00.001-04:00

Ok, it's been almost 8 months since the first and last post.. Things around here have changed ALOT! First of all, my hubby has been so good.. He is the best husband anyone can ask for, imo. I no longer feel like I felt before. Now that I read that, I feel as though I was being too harsh but what the hell; those were my feelings and no one can stop me from feeling that way... Anyway, I think we've changed as a couple for the better. I think having 3 kids were a bit much for me at first but I've gotten used to it... It's alot easier for me now. It was getting alittle bit overwhelming and hubby didn't understand at all. He thought I was all fine and dandy b/c I didn't say anything but I had a nasty attitude.

I also got sick after Halloween. I was feeling nervous, limbs were shaking, I was losing alot of hair and losing weight for no reason or so I thought. Anyway, since we didn't have insurance, I didn't bother going to the dr's.. I though I was getting nervous like my mom.. On Dec. 23rd, I went out with my cousins, aunt & sister to this lounge. I had a good time even though the place was packed.. Around 1am, I started to feel my heart beating really fast, so fast it started to hurt.. I then told my cousin I needed to go out and that I needed fresh air. It was bad leaving the place b/c it was so full but she took my hand and brought me outside fast.. She's great!

Once outside, I started to feel a bit better but my heart was still beating.. We finally brought everyone together and said I wanted to go back to my sister's house and just lay down.. Long story short.. I ended up in the emergency room.. It turns out I have a hyperactive thyroid. So they gave me medication to slow the heartrate and till this day I'm still on those meds. I'm also taking PTU.. It's a long ass word but it is to lower the levels in the thyroid being that my levels are extremely high.. Those pills are working but it does things to the bone marrow if people take them for a long period of time. So, I'm off for bloodwork tomorrow and hopefully, I won't need those again.. I know, some wishful thinking but a girl can dream, right? :)

Anyway, right now I'm planning on going out with the baby.. She's going stir crazy here b/c I stood home yesterday.. It was 72 degrees out but I was too exhausted to do anything.....that's another thing that happens to me.. I get really tired after doing nothing.

Anyway, I hope to post blogs here more often. It's nice to vent and put out your feelings since this site is free and it's feels more like "free therapy". I keep hearing that "saying" alot.

August 2nd

2006-08-02T07:42:00.001-04:00

What is up with all this blog stuff????? I decided to write a blog b/c I no longer keep a journal. My hand gets tired if I write too much..lol. Also, it is my time to vent when things around here get a little too crazy for me. I am 31 years old, I have 3 kids and I've been married for 10 years. Been with my husband for almost 16 years. Wow, when I look at that I am amazed. It doesn't feel that long but when I look at it, it does..Does that make sense? I don't know. I love my husband alot. It's hard to show it when I am over my head with my kids and all, but I can't see myself with any other man. He is like my left arm. My kids can have my other limbs..lol I am so used to him and yet, I can still be shy around him. I don't think that makes sense either.

Anyway, today is Wednesday and my son and I are the only ones that are up this morning. I have to go to the library and take my 7 year old daughter to the doctor's for a physical. I have to wash some work clothes for hubby and cook dinner.

That is my life pretty much everyday. Dealing with kids is not a easy job. I have 3 and someone once told me having the third child should be the easiest but it's not. My older two always bicker and nip-pick at things with each other and it drives me mad. Since I stay home with the kids hubby thinks when he gets home, it's off-duty daddy to him. I don't expect him to wash clothes, clean the bathrooms, clean the floors or even take the kids a bath. What I do expect is a little help with the kids once he unwinds from his hectic day. I don't mind letting him have a 1/2 hour to an hour to himself. What's not fair is him saying hi to the kids for 5 minutes and then run off to his computer for 3-5 hours straight leaving the kids whining b/c they miss their daddy and their daddy doesn't want to spend time with them b/c his game is more important then his kids. The game will always be there but kids grow up. I don't want my son thinking that is normal for a father b/c it's not. My father was always an active dad and I loved him for that. While my mom cooked dinner, my dad would be there with my sister and I either reading a book or even playing cards. I think he did that to get us out of my mother's hair while she cooked. Now with my hubby, he thinks when I cook, it's his turn to get away and play with his computer. Like I don't need assistance with the kids while I cook. OMG, he thinks that cooking is fun for me? I cook b/c I love home-cooked meals and I don't like to order out. It's too damn expensive. YKWIM? Sometimes he amazes me the way he is with the kids. I know he didn't grow up with a father but my dad never grew up with one either. He needs to learn what is most important to him. His family or his gaming needs.

I'm planning to go back to work but the only thing that is holding me down is my baby. She's 16 months old and I feel as though I have to give her at least 2 years at home with mommy like the other two. Looking at all the bills has been hard for me though lately b/c I know I have to make money for the family but I don't want my daughter to be unhappy. I know it sounds crazy but I feel if she is home, she'll be happier b/c when it comes to naps, she is very comfy in her bed. Now, if she goes to day care, I feel as though she won't be as comfy and when it's time to go home after she's picked up, she'll be a terror at home. So, all and all, I have alot of reasons why I stay home.

Update: Since this post, things have been much easier and hubby is very helpful. Thank God.

NY

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It's the weekend.......hopefully with no accidents.