Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Yes, I’m still doing the 30 Days of Truth…I’ve just been crazy busy and I can’t seem to find time to sit down and write a meaningful post…so I waited to do 2 together again! We’re on Days 12 and 13.
Question for Day 12 is: Something you never get compliments on.
My answer to this question may not surprise some of you, especially those who know me IRL. Something I never get compliments on is my patience. I am probably the most impatient person I know. I can’t stand to wait in line at the grocery store, I hate getting stuck in traffic (and being stuck behind a tractor is the worst—yes I live in BFE tractors are an every day occurrence), and I detest being put on hold on the phone. Learning to be more patient is something that I definitely need to work on.
And if we are talking about the other kind of compliments I have an answer to that too, my fingernails. I bite my nails (and have for years) and the always look horrible. I do occasionally grow them out and they are beautiful when I do, but most of the time they are just nasty looking.
Question for Day 13 is: A band or artist that has gotten you through some tough ass days. (write a letter.)
Now I know that I am supposed to write a letter for this one, but dinner is on the stove, 2 of the kids are arguing about something or other, and 2 kids are destroying my kitchen…so a letter is not going to happen right now.
So the band or artist who has gotten me through some hard ass times is Tupac. Yes, I know some of you may be like wtf, but just hear me out. Tupac was the biggest rapper out there when I was in my teens—I had just gotten his album All Eyez on Me (yes, I lied my ass off for that CD…my mom would have killed me if she had listened to some of those songs) and listened to it all the time. I got it around the time my grandmother was really starting to go down hill, after she died I would sit in my room and listen to “Life Goes On” in my head phones over and over. While the content of the song had nothing to do with my situation, it was sort of like an anthem for anyone who had lost someone they loved dearly. Looking back I realize that song really helped me to let out my anger, sadness, and frustration at the situation. To this day I get teary listening to the song!
Question for Day 12 is: Something you never get compliments on.
My answer to this question may not surprise some of you, especially those who know me IRL. Something I never get compliments on is my patience. I am probably the most impatient person I know. I can’t stand to wait in line at the grocery store, I hate getting stuck in traffic (and being stuck behind a tractor is the worst—yes I live in BFE tractors are an every day occurrence), and I detest being put on hold on the phone. Learning to be more patient is something that I definitely need to work on.
And if we are talking about the other kind of compliments I have an answer to that too, my fingernails. I bite my nails (and have for years) and the always look horrible. I do occasionally grow them out and they are beautiful when I do, but most of the time they are just nasty looking.
Question for Day 13 is: A band or artist that has gotten you through some tough ass days. (write a letter.)
Now I know that I am supposed to write a letter for this one, but dinner is on the stove, 2 of the kids are arguing about something or other, and 2 kids are destroying my kitchen…so a letter is not going to happen right now.
So the band or artist who has gotten me through some hard ass times is Tupac. Yes, I know some of you may be like wtf, but just hear me out. Tupac was the biggest rapper out there when I was in my teens—I had just gotten his album All Eyez on Me (yes, I lied my ass off for that CD…my mom would have killed me if she had listened to some of those songs) and listened to it all the time. I got it around the time my grandmother was really starting to go down hill, after she died I would sit in my room and listen to “Life Goes On” in my head phones over and over. While the content of the song had nothing to do with my situation, it was sort of like an anthem for anyone who had lost someone they loved dearly. Looking back I realize that song really helped me to let out my anger, sadness, and frustration at the situation. To this day I get teary listening to the song!
It’s almost too sad to even say, but summer is almost over. I know, I know I’m not too thrilled about it either. But even though summer is about to give way to fall that doesn’t mean the awesome summer parties have to stop, right? As a matter of fact, I still have one more great category of my Summer 2010 Must Haves to get through…a Rockin Labor Day Party! So be sure to stop by all this week and check out the awesome products to help make this Labor Day your best yet!
I love this time of year, the heat and humidity are all but gone, yet it’s still warm enough to take a dip in the pool! One of my families’ favorite things to do this time of year is a Family Picnic. I love being able to pack up a nice lunch, grab some fishing pools, and a blanket and head out to our favorite picnic spot at our local recreation park! That’s why we are giving you our list of the best products to make your Labor Day picnic or party a success!
I’m sure you would agree that one of the biggest issues with picnics is being able to keep food cold. You can take the cooler, but sometimes you need something a little more compact, like the Ice Orb. Now this product is without a doubt one of my favorite products for 2010 and in just a moment you will see why, but first a little background on the Ice Orb! The Ice Orb (made by fusionbrands) is the first vertical ice tray; it makes, chills, serves, and stores!
Ice Orb…what’s it all about?
I love this time of year, the heat and humidity are all but gone, yet it’s still warm enough to take a dip in the pool! One of my families’ favorite things to do this time of year is a Family Picnic. I love being able to pack up a nice lunch, grab some fishing pools, and a blanket and head out to our favorite picnic spot at our local recreation park! That’s why we are giving you our list of the best products to make your Labor Day picnic or party a success!
I’m sure you would agree that one of the biggest issues with picnics is being able to keep food cold. You can take the cooler, but sometimes you need something a little more compact, like the Ice Orb. Now this product is without a doubt one of my favorite products for 2010 and in just a moment you will see why, but first a little background on the Ice Orb! The Ice Orb (made by fusionbrands) is the first vertical ice tray; it makes, chills, serves, and stores!
Ice Orb…what’s it all about?
- Makes 21 cubes of ice on a vertical wall
- Stores up to 51 cubes - airtight and odor free
- Chills wine and other beverages in a bottle
- Use as a cooler to keep cold foods fresh while serving
- Use lid under orb while serving to catch condensation
- Spill-proof design
- Dishwasher safe - top rack only
- 6" diameter x 5" tall
Pour water into the outer container of the Ice Orb and freeze
Several hours later…you have ice
Store ice in the outer container of the Ice Orb…also doubles as a unit for keeping food and drinks cold
Alright I cannot say enough good things about this product…I absolutely love it! Aside from the fact that it’s the first vertical ice maker, it’s different, versatile, and fun! I love that you can make 21 cubes of ice and store them in the middle container while you make more. The only negative thing I can say about the Ice Orb is that it is a little difficult to get the outer ring (containing the ice) off of the inner container after the unit has been frozen (something the step-by-step directions that come with the Orb does tell you). I have found that if you let the Ice Orb set out at room temperature for a few minutes or run it under a little hot water it’s so much easier to open the Ice Orb.
One of the other features of the Ice Orb that I really like is the middle container which can be used to chill almost anything; a bottle of wine, water, dips, chilled deserts…and that is what makes it the perfect product to take with you on your next Family Picnic! Fusion Brands makes all kinds of unique, fun, and functional kitchen gadgets so make sure you check them out…they have fast become one of my favorite companies!Buy it!
You can purchase the Ice Orb online at www.fusionbrands.com for $16.00…it is so worth it!
Monday, August 30, 2010
Remember my admission that I have somewhat of an obsession with writing utensils? Yes, well I seem to be collecting quite a bit of them lately, but with back to school for both myself and my girls that means some serious ink pen stockpiling is going on at my house! And just as I have favorite brands of shoes and jeans, I have favorite brands of pens, and one of those brands just so happens to be Pentel!
Pentel has been supplying the world with only the best quality writing utensils for nearly 50 years, they are a leader in innovation and take their commitment to excellence very seriously.
From the Pentel Website:
“Pentel is the only writing instrument company to receive the Deming Award for recognition of the highest standard of quality. Pentel invented roller ball technology... the smoothest way to express ideas. Pentel pioneered graphite lead and our Super Hi-Polymer® Lead is the market leader. Our automatic pencil inventions remain the hallmark of the industry.
We are as committed to quality products as we are to education and the environment. We sponsor numerous educational programs and donate products to libraries, schools and organizations of need. Our dozen boxes, master cartons and blister cards are printed on recycled and recyclable materials. Pentel is working with you to create a healthier environment. “
Pentel sent me several of their fabulous products to review including the EnerGel Deluxe Retractable Pen, Jolt mechanical pencil, RSVP RT Colors pens, and several other goodies! While all of the pens and pencils are amazing there are two in particular that I was very impressed with, the JOLT Automatic Pencil and the EnerGel Deluxe Retractable Gel Pen.
The JOLT automatic pencil shakes the lead out insuring uninterrupted lead flow. The JOLT features revolutionary sliding sleeve technology that automatically advances the lead for uninterrupted use even if the lead breaks due to use. The JOLT automatic pencil also features a contoured barrel for added comfort and a clear window which displays the pencils unique spring mechanism in action. I have to be honest and tell you that I had my reservations about the JOLT (mainly because I don’t like mechanical pencils) but this pencil surprised me, I loved how easy it was to use and how much easier it made using a mechanical pencil. One of the other standout products in my opinion was the EnerGel Deluxe Retractable Pen. I am a sucker for liquid gel pens as they seem to write so much more easily and eloquently, but this pen has quickly become one of my absolute favorite writing utensils. The EnerGel Deluxe Retractable Gel Pen is a top click, retractable pen with 0.7mm metal tip produces crisp, medium lines in black ink. The vivid, super-smooth liquid gel ink dries quickly without smearing, making it great for left-handed writers. Conveniently refillable with Pentel LR7 ink refill.
Between my obsession with ink pens and the need to have an abundance of high quality, affordable, writing utensils around the house for both mine and the girls’ school work, you just cannot go wrong with Pentel!
Follow @Allie_23 on Twitter: 2 extra entries
Tweet this giveaway on Twitter (2x per day per length of giveaway) Copy and paste or Retweet and be sure to include @Allie_23 in your Tweets: “Win one of 3 Pentel Prize Packs at MIBR @Allie_23 http://tinyurl.com/26hwwlo!”
Follow @Pentel on Twitter: 2 extra entries
“Like” Misadventures in Baby Raising on Facebook: 2 extra entries
“Like” Pentel on Facebook: 2 extra entries:
Share this giveaway on Facebook: 2x per day per length of giveaway
Follow MIBR via Networked Blogs: 2 extra entries
Stumble this giveaway: 2 extra entries
Enter any of the giveaways on MIBR: 1 extra entry per additional entry into giveaway
Blog about this giveaway with links to this post: 5 extra entries
This giveaway ends on Monday September 9, 2010 at 11:59 PM EST. One winner will be chosen via Random.org and announced in a separate winner’s post. Winner will have 48 hours to contact me and claim their prize; failure to do so will result in winner forfeiting his prize and me choosing a new winner.
Pentel has been supplying the world with only the best quality writing utensils for nearly 50 years, they are a leader in innovation and take their commitment to excellence very seriously.
From the Pentel Website:
“Pentel is the only writing instrument company to receive the Deming Award for recognition of the highest standard of quality. Pentel invented roller ball technology... the smoothest way to express ideas. Pentel pioneered graphite lead and our Super Hi-Polymer® Lead is the market leader. Our automatic pencil inventions remain the hallmark of the industry.
We are as committed to quality products as we are to education and the environment. We sponsor numerous educational programs and donate products to libraries, schools and organizations of need. Our dozen boxes, master cartons and blister cards are printed on recycled and recyclable materials. Pentel is working with you to create a healthier environment. “
Pentel sent me several of their fabulous products to review including the EnerGel Deluxe Retractable Pen, Jolt mechanical pencil, RSVP RT Colors pens, and several other goodies! While all of the pens and pencils are amazing there are two in particular that I was very impressed with, the JOLT Automatic Pencil and the EnerGel Deluxe Retractable Gel Pen.
The JOLT automatic pencil shakes the lead out insuring uninterrupted lead flow. The JOLT features revolutionary sliding sleeve technology that automatically advances the lead for uninterrupted use even if the lead breaks due to use. The JOLT automatic pencil also features a contoured barrel for added comfort and a clear window which displays the pencils unique spring mechanism in action. I have to be honest and tell you that I had my reservations about the JOLT (mainly because I don’t like mechanical pencils) but this pencil surprised me, I loved how easy it was to use and how much easier it made using a mechanical pencil. One of the other standout products in my opinion was the EnerGel Deluxe Retractable Pen. I am a sucker for liquid gel pens as they seem to write so much more easily and eloquently, but this pen has quickly become one of my absolute favorite writing utensils. The EnerGel Deluxe Retractable Gel Pen is a top click, retractable pen with 0.7mm metal tip produces crisp, medium lines in black ink. The vivid, super-smooth liquid gel ink dries quickly without smearing, making it great for left-handed writers. Conveniently refillable with Pentel LR7 ink refill.
Between my obsession with ink pens and the need to have an abundance of high quality, affordable, writing utensils around the house for both mine and the girls’ school work, you just cannot go wrong with Pentel!
Buy it!
You can purchase the Pentel products mentioned above as well as many others in Pentel’s online store! You can even receive FREE Shipping on all orders of $20 or more until September 30, 2010!
Win it: Mandatory Entry!
To enter this giveaway please visit Pentel and look around, come back here and leave a comment telling me which Pentel product(s) are your favorite! This is mandatory and must be completed before any extra entries are allowed!
Extra Entries!
Please leave separate comments for each extra entry!
Follow MIBR via Email, RSS, of GFC: 2 extra entries each! Follow @Allie_23 on Twitter: 2 extra entries
Tweet this giveaway on Twitter (2x per day per length of giveaway) Copy and paste or Retweet and be sure to include @Allie_23 in your Tweets: “Win one of 3 Pentel Prize Packs at MIBR @Allie_23 http://tinyurl.com/26hwwlo!”
Follow @Pentel on Twitter: 2 extra entries
“Like” Misadventures in Baby Raising on Facebook: 2 extra entries
“Like” Pentel on Facebook: 2 extra entries:
Share this giveaway on Facebook: 2x per day per length of giveaway
Follow MIBR via Networked Blogs: 2 extra entries
Stumble this giveaway: 2 extra entries
Enter any of the giveaways on MIBR: 1 extra entry per additional entry into giveaway
Blog about this giveaway with links to this post: 5 extra entries
This giveaway ends on Monday September 9, 2010 at 11:59 PM EST. One winner will be chosen via Random.org and announced in a separate winner’s post. Winner will have 48 hours to contact me and claim their prize; failure to do so will result in winner forfeiting his prize and me choosing a new winner.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
I decided to take a break from posting yesterday, hey it’s my blog I’ll take a break if I want to lol, but that means that I skipped Day 10 of 30 Days of Truth. So I just decided to do day 10 and 11 together, again. I really do love this and I encourage all of y’all to go over to Angel Believes and check it out and start your 30 Days of Truth too!
Day 10’s question is: Someone you need to let go, or wish you didn’t know.
I swear these questions seem to get harder and harder. I need to let go of the people in my life who I constantly try to help make themselves better. By nature I’m a nurturer and part of that means that I always try to help people, even people who a.) don’t want to be helped and b.) don’t appreciate the help. Constantly putting myself in the position where I go out on a limb and or put my wants and needs on the backburner for has made me see that I can’t help everyone and as sad as it makes me to realize defeat, I know it’s best for me and my family that I focus on us and let other people figure out their own issues on their own!
Day 11’s question is: Something people seem to compliment you the most on
Alright so this one is fairly easy. I guess the answer depends on what kind of compliment we’re talking about. If the question is asking which characteristic I get complimented on the most I would have to say it’s my patience. Almost daily someone asks me how I don’t crack under the constant pressure of four kids, school, wifely duties, and just life in general.
If we’re talking about a physical characteristic that I get complimented on most then I would have to say my hair by other women and my butt by men. Pretty straight forward I suppose.
Day 10’s question is: Someone you need to let go, or wish you didn’t know.
I swear these questions seem to get harder and harder. I need to let go of the people in my life who I constantly try to help make themselves better. By nature I’m a nurturer and part of that means that I always try to help people, even people who a.) don’t want to be helped and b.) don’t appreciate the help. Constantly putting myself in the position where I go out on a limb and or put my wants and needs on the backburner for has made me see that I can’t help everyone and as sad as it makes me to realize defeat, I know it’s best for me and my family that I focus on us and let other people figure out their own issues on their own!
Day 11’s question is: Something people seem to compliment you the most on
Alright so this one is fairly easy. I guess the answer depends on what kind of compliment we’re talking about. If the question is asking which characteristic I get complimented on the most I would have to say it’s my patience. Almost daily someone asks me how I don’t crack under the constant pressure of four kids, school, wifely duties, and just life in general.
If we’re talking about a physical characteristic that I get complimented on most then I would have to say my hair by other women and my butt by men. Pretty straight forward I suppose.
Winning number is:
Winning commenter:
5webs
I would get Pillsbury Ready-To-Bake Cookies, Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls, and Chocolate Cheerios.
Alicia Webster
5webs@comcast.net
Congrats!
Next giveaway we’re choosing a winner for is the Seventh Generation Prize Pack Giveaway!
Winning number is:
Winning commenter is:
Tamara B.
#2, Follower Networked Blogs.
tamben7996(at)aol(dot)com
Congrats to both winners! Winners have 48 hours to claim their prizes! Thanks to everyone who entered!
Friday, August 27, 2010
Recently I discovered EyeBuyDirect.com (why didn’t I know about this last year) a prescription eyewear website offering an extensive range of high quality, affordable frame and lens packages. Launched in 2005, EyeBuyDirect has emerged as one of the major players in the world of online retail. EyeBuyDirect has its finger on the pulse of what’s fashionable and hot in eyewear while keeping their prices affordable enough to make the most budget conscious moms and dads happy. So why choose EyeBuyDirect.com for your prescription eyewear needs?
- Expertise: Comprised of industry specialists the EyeBuyDirect team are focused on customer service while still understanding their customers vision and optical needs.
- Price: As an online retailer and manufacturer EyeBuyDirect.com is able to reduce the costs passed on by traditional retailers and that means more money in your pocket!
- Customer Service: Available to assist you even after you've received your glasses.
- Selection: EyeBuyDirect has a great selection of the hottest eyeglass styles and latest trends in eyewear.
- Convenience: No crowds, no waiting in line at the register, and home delivery—online shopping at its finest!
- Satisfaction: EyeBuyDirect believes in customer satisfaction, if you are not completely satisfied with your eyewear purchase you can return the product within 7 days and receive a full refund (shipping costs not included) or a new pair. No questions asked!
Now I have a wonderful treat for all of my fabulous readers—EyeBuyDirect.com is giving one Misadventures in Baby Raising reader One free pair of prescription eyeglass of winner choice, value up to $100.( Frame + lenses )! How awesome is that!?!
Win it: Mandatory Entry!
To enter this giveaway please visit EyeBuyDirect.com and have a look around (try not to get lost in all of the fabulousness) then come back to this post and leave a comment telling me which frame you would choose if you won! Simple as 1,2,3, BUT this must be done before any extra entries will be counted!
Extra Entries!
Please leave separate comments for each additional entry!
Follow MIBR via Email, RSS, of GFC: 2 extra entries each!
Follow @Allie_23 on Twitter: 2 extra entries
Tweet this giveaway on Twitter (2x per day per length of giveaway) Copy and paste or Retweet and be sure to include @Allie_23 in your Tweets: “Win a pair of prescription eyeglasses (winner’s choice) from @EyeBuyDirect value up to $100 at MIBR @Allie_23 http://tinyurl.com/26hwwlo!”
Follow @EyeBuyDirect on Twitter: 2 extra entries
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Share this giveaway on Facebook: 2x per day per length of giveaway
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Post a comment to EyeBuyDirect’s Wall of Frame: 2 extra entries
Enter any of the giveaways on MIBR: 1 extra entry per additional entry into giveaway
Post your "Eye Try" photo with your favorite frame to our Wall of Frame: 2 extra entries
Blog about this giveaway with links to this post as well as EyeBuyDirect.com: 5 extra entries
This giveaway ends on Friday September 10, 2010 at 11:59 PM EST. Winner will receive a pair of prescription eyeglasses of the winner’s choice: (Please note this is with the exception of designer eyewear and sunglasses. Lenses option except ’thin as possible’). One winner will be chosen via Random.org and announced in a separate winner’s post. Winner will have 48 hours to contact me and claim their prize, failure to do so will result in winner forfeiting their prizes and me choosing a new winner.
US Entries Only Please!
*This is a sponsored post*
Thursday, August 26, 2010
So I fell a little behind on my 30 Days of Truth—no bigge I’m just going to post days 8 and 9 together. Is that cool?
So Day 8’s Question is: Someone who made your life hell or treated you like shit!
Wow, I could be here all day, but I’ll just say my ex husband and his ex and leave it at that.
Day 9 question is: Someone you didn’t want to let go, but they just drifted.
This one is kind of complicated. Complicated because I’m not really sure if I should admit it, but this is 30 days of truth so I will tell it like it is.
Without naming names (though I’m sure if he were reading this he would probably know it was about him) I will just say that it was my first love. For so many years I thought that he was “the one”, and for so long I used him as the guy I measured every other guy in my life against. After we lost touch it was difficult to imagine that he would never be in my life again because he truly meant so much to me, but eventually I realized that if it were meant to be, it would be and if not, well we’d end up either never speaking to each other again or as pretty good friends. I’m happy to say that I count him as one of my great friends and that is just as good (maybe better) than him being “the one”.
I’ve mentioned before how much my children love The Fresh Beat Band, Lil Man is obsessed and watches every episode from start to finish without moving from his seat. And I have to admit that I often catch myself watching with him and even singing along to the songs. That’s why I was so excited to find out that Nickelodeon is kicking off the second season of The Fresh Beat Band with four new episodes Monday August 30-Thursday September 2! You can check out all of the details below!
About The Fresh Beat Band
The Fresh Beat Band centers on four best friends – Kiki, Marina, Twist and Shout – in a band who attend music school together and love to sing and dance. Set to original pop songs, the half-hour series teaches preschoolers about music appreciation and how to express their feelings through movement, song and instrumental music. Kids will also be introduced to the fundamentals of music such as melody, rhythm, tempo and performance styles. In each episode, preschoolers will sing and dance along as they help The Fresh Beat Band solve everyday challenges. Viewers also learn the importance of friendship, working together in a positive way and respecting each other’s differences.
Nickelodeon's preschool comedy series The Fresh Beat Band returns for a second season of hijinks and high-energy music with four new episodes premiering Monday, Aug. 30 - Thursday, Sept. 2, at 11:30 a.m. ET/PT. Throughout the new 20-episode season, preschoolers will see the Fresh Beats save a circus, perform in a Zydeco parade, camp in the great outdoors, build a brand new car and visit Toyland in a fantastical holiday special. Along the way, the Fresh Beat Band will learn and play new styles of music, including Jazz, Conga, Bluegrass and Motown. Plus, every episode will conclude with a “Fresh Beat Blast” where viewers have an opportunity to see themselves sing and dance on the show. The Fresh Beat Band regularly airs weekdays at 1:30 p.m. ET/PT on Nickelodeon.
The episodes for the season two premiere week are as follows (all times are 11:30 a.m. ET/PT):
About The Fresh Beat Band
The Fresh Beat Band centers on four best friends – Kiki, Marina, Twist and Shout – in a band who attend music school together and love to sing and dance. Set to original pop songs, the half-hour series teaches preschoolers about music appreciation and how to express their feelings through movement, song and instrumental music. Kids will also be introduced to the fundamentals of music such as melody, rhythm, tempo and performance styles. In each episode, preschoolers will sing and dance along as they help The Fresh Beat Band solve everyday challenges. Viewers also learn the importance of friendship, working together in a positive way and respecting each other’s differences.
Nickelodeon's preschool comedy series The Fresh Beat Band returns for a second season of hijinks and high-energy music with four new episodes premiering Monday, Aug. 30 - Thursday, Sept. 2, at 11:30 a.m. ET/PT. Throughout the new 20-episode season, preschoolers will see the Fresh Beats save a circus, perform in a Zydeco parade, camp in the great outdoors, build a brand new car and visit Toyland in a fantastical holiday special. Along the way, the Fresh Beat Band will learn and play new styles of music, including Jazz, Conga, Bluegrass and Motown. Plus, every episode will conclude with a “Fresh Beat Blast” where viewers have an opportunity to see themselves sing and dance on the show. The Fresh Beat Band regularly airs weekdays at 1:30 p.m. ET/PT on Nickelodeon.
The episodes for the season two premiere week are as follows (all times are 11:30 a.m. ET/PT):
- Monday, Aug. 30 "Circus Mojo" (PREMIERE)
- When only some of the circus arrives, the Fresh Beats jump in to help save it for the Junior Beats. Twist and Shout claim the flying silks, Kiki performs on the floating lyra and Marina on the soft swing. The Fresh Beats find their acts harder than they expected. Marina encourages the others but then needs some encouragement of her own when asked to step in as the ringmaster.
Music Curriculum: Calliope
- Tuesday, Aug. 31 "Honk Honk" (PREMIERE)
- The Fresh Beats decide to order a new car online. However, when it’s delivered, it comes in 57 boxes and they can't figure out how to put it together. Shout rallies them to put the car together by following the instructions one step at a time to build a rockin’ new car!
Music Curriculum: Melody
- Wednesday, Sept. 1 "Camping with the Stars" (PREMIERE)
- It's summer and the Fresh Beats go camping and hope to spot a shooting star. They bring their acoustic instruments so they can jam along with the sounds of nature. But it’s Twist’s first time camping and he has a lot to learn – until he saves the day by staying up and spotting shooting stars!
Music Curriculum: Acoustic Instruments
- Thursday, Sept. 2 "Singin' in the Rain" (PREMIERE) When it starts raining, Twist, Shout and Kiki run for cover, but the rain sounds inspire Marina to write a new song. When the rain suddenly stops, Marina can't finish her song. Twist, Shout and Kiki help Marina and they create an authentic "rhythm-of-the-rain" sound. In the rain, Marina kicks off a cool song and dance number with everyone wearing bright colored raincoats, hats and carrying umbrellas.
Music Curriculum: Rhythm
This is without a doubt, my favorite part of being a review blogger…giving away great prizes to all of my amazing readers!
So here we go. Today’s winner’s are for the Stellarocco Giveaway!
First winning number is:
And the first lucky winner is:
Courtney
fb fan 2 courtney bella
Second winning number is:
And the second lucky winner is:
susan
I entered your Tea Collection Clothing: BTS Blowout! $100 GC Giveaway.
Congrats to both winners! Be sure to check your inbox for your winner’s email! Both winner’s have 48 hours to reply to the email and claim their prize!
Thank to everyone who entered!
One of the most important aspects of back to school is picking the right backpack. Finding the right backpack could mean the difference between a good school year and a great school year. Backpack selection is always one of the very first items of business when back to school shopping for my girls, and they waste no time telling me what is acceptable and what is not. One of first places we check out when shopping for backpacks is High Sierra.I have been a fan of High Sierra for a while now; I love their selection of backpacks, the prices are affordable, and the durability of their backpacks (at least in my experience) is unmatched. High Sierra Sports Company offers a wide variety of bags for adventure travel, business, active outdoor, luggage, school and more; if you are in the market for a bag chances are pretty good that High Sierra has it! High Sierra’s line of Day Bags (perfect for school) has an array of styles, colors, and patterns for your little one (or you) to choose something absolutely perfect!
I was so excited when I was given the opportunity to do a review for High Sierra, aside from the fact that I love their bags, I was so excited to tell all of you about them! We received the Sheridan backpack for our review. At this point I feel the need to mention again just how many styles of backpacks High Sierra has to choose from; Curve, Benson, Opie, Airhead, Wilder, Malcolm, Ziggy, Caldwell, and the list goes on and on. When our package from High Sierra arrived I think I was as excited as my daughter was about opening the box. As soon as we opened the box and my daughter saw the backpack she squealed with joy over how, “super cute” it was. I have to admit, the backpack was adorable, but more than that the backpack looked super functional.
Features of the Sheridan Day Bag
Aside from the backpack being fashionable I was surprised at how much room it had, the backpack was extra roomy without being too big and bulky for my petite 8 year old. One of my favorite features of the Sheridan day bag is definitely the multi-compartment design of the bag, there is room for anything and everything Savanna could want or need to take to school. I also really like the fact that the day bag has padded shoulder straps, with as much as the kids are required to bring home with them from school these days the padded shoulder straps are a plus. Of course, the most important aspect of a backpack is whether or not a child likes it, and Savanna loves this backpack.
So if you’re in the market for a killer backpack for your kiddo for back to school this year, make sure you check out the large selection of affordable bags at High Sierra! Also make sure to check out High Sierra’s Facebook page where you can find out about great deals, new products, and maybe even a contest or two!
Buy it!
To find out where you can pick up the Sheridan Day Bag and so many other fabulous bags visit www.hssc.com!
High Sierra has offered one of my misadventurous readers one of their High Sierra backpacks!
Win it: Mandatory Entry!
To enter this giveaway please visit High Sierra and look around, come back here and tell me which bag(s) you like best. This is mandatory and must be completed before any extra entries will be counted!
Extra Entries
Follow Me Baby! Via Email, RSS, or GFC: 2 extra entriesGrab MIBR’s BTS Blowout button: 2 extra entries
Follow me on Twitter: 2 extra entries
Tweet this giveaway on Twitter(copy and paste tweet below or use retweet just be sure to include @Allie_23): 2 Tweets Per Day Per Length of Giveaway
Win a backpack from High Sierra at MIBR @Allie_23 http://tinyurl.com/29n2ez2 Check it out!
Follow MIBR via Networked Blogs: 2 extra entries
“Like” MIBR on Facebook: 2 extra entries
Share this giveaway on Facebook: 2x per day for length of giveaway
“Like” High Sierra on Facebook: 2 extra entries
Stumble this giveaway (just this post): 3 extra entries
Enter any of the MIBR giveaways: 1 extra entry each
This giveaway ends on Wednesday September 9, 2010 at 11:59 PM EST. Winner will receive a bag (of sponsors choice). One winner will be chosen via Random.org and announced in a separate winner’s post. Winner will have 48 hours to contact me and claim their prize, failure to do so will result in winner forfeiting their prizes and me choosing a new winner.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
It’s Day 7 of 30 Days of Truth! If you don’t knoq what it’s all about check out Angel Believes are join in!
Day 7 question is: Someone who has made your life worth living for
Well I’m sure it’s no surprise that I am going to say it’s my children. I can’t even begin to imagine how my life would have turned out had I not had my babies.
When I first found out that I was going to be a mommy my entire life changed in an instant. Until that moment I had partied when I wanted, done things that I never should have done, and had absolutely no responsibilities or limits—and then I saw the two lines on the pregnancy test. Overnight I changed my entire outlook on life…I wanted to make myself better for my baby, and I did!
Becoming a mom made me see things in a different life, it made me realize that the life I had been living was stupid, dangerous, and wrong on so many levels…I never looked back! My oldest daughter saved me from myself and for that I will forever be grateful!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
I always get so excited when I post winners…it makes me so happy for the people who win! 
Alright so today we have 2 winners; the Carolina Pad winner and the Yo Gabba Gabba Medicine Time Spray winners!
First up Carolina Pad! Winning number is:
And our lucky winner is:
MAT
My favorite is the new Graffiti collection.
sinhead83 at hotmail dot com
Next up is the Yo Gabba Gabba Medicine Time Spray! This one has 2 winners!
First winning number is:
And our first lucky winner is:
Tabathia
tweet
http://twitter.com/ChelleB36/status/21967063168
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com
Second winning number is:
And our second lucky winner is:
MaryB
Entered Tea!
mcbrady 13 at hotmail dot com
(openID thishumanscondition)
Congrats to all winners! Be sure to check your inboxes for your winners email! You have 48 hours to respond and claim your prize! Thank to all who entered!
I decided to switch today’s 30 Days of Truth Post up a bit and do a vlog, its been a while so I though what the hell!
Question for Day 6 is: Something you hope you never have to do? Enjoy!
Oh and btw wth kind of thumbnail is that…did they have to pick the WORST frame in the whole video and use that!
In my house stuff disappears, keys, clothes, shoes, diapers, pens, and as much as I do not like it, it seems to be just the way things are around here. Every year when I buy school supplies I always make sure to buy extra; extra paper, extra glue, and definitely extra pens and pencils. Pens and pencils seem to disappear around here as often as I change my clothes and it drives me insane. Especially because I am a little crazy when it comes to pens, I’m picky and I like what I like—that’s just me. When I find a pen that I like I buy them in bulk, you know how some moms hide their favorite sweet treats away from sticky little fingers? Well I hide (or hoard) my pens.
Since I am so picky about pens I tend to stick with brands that I know and love—like Paper Mate. I’ve been buying Paper Mate products for years, and with good reason, I love them! So when I had the opportunity to do a review for some Paper Mate products I was over the moon excited…yes I am that big of a dork! Paper Mate sent me several products to review including quite a few from their Green line! 
Paper Mate Biodegradable
* Part of the first biodegradable line up of products.
* Biodegradable components are made from an exclusive corn-based material, a renewable resource, to produce less waste and more compost.
* Smooth, comfortable writing experience.
* Available in ball point pen and mechanical pencil.
* Mechanical pencil starter kits feature a unique eraser and lead refill holder made of biodegradable material
Paper Mate FlexGrip Ultra Recycled all Point Pen
* Classic trusted favorite, now part of greener choices—made from 70% recycled material
* Grip rings near the tip for added comfort
Paper Mate Earth Write Recycled Pencil
* 100% recycled cedar wood from the USA
Paper Mate Write Bros. Recycled Ball Point Pen
* Classic trusted favorite now part of greener choices—the recycled version is made from 80% recycled material
First I have to say that the Paper Mate Gel pens are my absolute favorite pens hands down; I love the way they write, the way the tip of the pen glides over the paper, and the finished product—it seems to just make my writing look more elegant and beautiful! Since I am so picky when it comes to pens I really didn’t think I would adjust to using the other pens and like them as well as I like the Gel pens, but I was wrong. My favorite pen in the Green Line is hands down the Paper Mate Biodegradable! I love that the pen is fairly big around, I think fatter pens are easier to write with than their skinnier counterparts, and the fact that it glides along the paper so effortlessly certainly didn’t hurt! I am also curious about ways to make my family’s life more eco-friendly and green and in my opinion this is a great starting point! 
Even though I did like some of the Paper Mate products more than others (I don’t write with regular pencils much so I didn’t really have an opinion on them) I think it’s safe to say that this company knows what they are doing when it comes to writing utensils! 
If you get a chance head over to Paper Mate’s Facebook page, they have a ton of great stuff going on over there! You can upload a picture of you with your Paper Mate Pen and receive a FREE Paper Mate Pen (I’m all over that), you can also collect UPC codes from Paper Mate Products for a chance to win $15,000 worth of Paper Mate products for your school!
Buy it!
You can purchase Paper Mate products online, at Office Max, Walmart, Office Depot, and more!
Since the people at Paper Mate are so very awesome…they are giving 2 lucky MIBR readers some fabulous Paper Mate products! Each winner will receive a 5-pack of Paper Mate Gel Pens and a Silhouette mechanical pencil (with refills)!
Win it: Mandatory Entry!
To enter this giveaway please visit Paper Mate, come back and leave a comment on this post telling me which Paper Mate product(s) are your favorite! This is mandatory and must be completed before any additional entries are counted!
Extra Entries
Follow MIBR via GFC, Email, or RSS: 2 extra entries
Follow MIBR via Networked Blogs: 2 extra entries
Follow MIBR on Twitter: 2 extra entries
Grab our Back to School Blowout Button: 2 extra entries
Tweet this giveaway on Twitter (copy and paste the following Tweet or ReTweet and include @Allie_23): 2x per day per length of giveaway
I entered the Paper Mate Giveaway at MIBR http://tinyurl.com/38g9p36 @Allie_23
“Like” MIBR on Facebook: 2 extra entries
“Like” Paper Mate on Facebook: 2 extra entries
Share this giveaway on Facebook: 2x per day per length of giveaway
Participate in one of the discussions on MIBR’s FB Page: 2 extra entries
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Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post: 5 extra entries
This giveaway ends on Monday September 6, 2010 at 11:59 PM EST. Two winners will be chosen via Random.org and announced in a separate winner’s post. Winners will have 48 hours to contact me and claim their prize; failure to do so will result in winner forfeiting his prize and me choosing a new winner.
Monday, August 23, 2010
School starts today for my girlies, and they are super excited to get back into the swing of things at school. Back to School means that our Back to School Blowout is still going strong…make sure you’ve checked out all of the back to school products we’ve introduced you too and don’t forget to enter all of the fabulous giveaways as well!
One of my girls’ favorite parts of back to school shopping is picking out a new lunchbox! I can’t say I blame them, I remember the excitement of packing my lunch up in a brand new lunchbox and showing it off to all of my friends. Of course, not all lunchboxes are created equal and finding one that is just right is a major undertaking, especially for my girl Savanna. Savanna is the type of girl who likes things exactly the way she liked them and as a result of that perfectionism she is not so easy to please.
So we go lunchbox shopping and after what seemed like hours of scouring the shelves and turning her nose up at most of the lunchboxes, Savanna exclaims that she cannot find a lunchbox that she likes. We leave the stores with no lunchboxes and one very disappointed Savanna. On the way home from our unsuccessful shopping trip Savanna tells me, “Mom I want a lunchbox that is cute and unique and not too girly…something that’s made for me!” A few days later I received an email from a company requesting a review called Simply Bags, I go to their website to have a look around and spot their selection of lunch bags …and I knew that I had found exactly what Savanna was looking for! Simply Bags is a company who specializes in monogrammed bags; from personalized tote bags and laptop bags to diaper bags and embroidered lunch bags, Simply Bags is a haven for people who want something different and special in a bag!
For my review I decided on a embroidered lunch bag for Savanna. Their lunch bags are insulated and include complimentary embroidery or monogramming. We decided on having her name embroidered in pink on the front of the blue polka dot bag. Simply Bags has an impressive selection of lunch bags to choose from as well. When I received Savanna’s lunch bag from Simply Bags I couldn’t wait to see it. I have to tell you that when I opened the box and saw the bag I was completely surprised and greatly impressed at how fabulous it was. From it’s adorable half blue, half blue and white polka dot pattern to the cute little pink and green flowers embroidered in the corner it was just so cute. And when I saw how incredible her name looked on the front I knew that we had made the right choice and that Savanna had found THE lunch bag for this school year. Aside from the color and amazing embroidery job, I was shocked at how much room the lunch bag had inside.
Amazing embroidery work!
Tons of room in both the top and bottom (shown above) compartments!
Product Description: Adorable girls lunch tote for school. Insulated top with zippered bottom. Use with or without the lower portion 9” x 6” storage container. Great colors… Ocean blue or summer green. Coordinates with our girls beach tote for a matched set. Includes name or three letter monogram.
This lunch bag is absolutely worth every penny of its $24.99 price tag…and can you believe that price…amazing!
Buy it!
You can purchase this lunch box and SO much more at Simply-Bags.com!
It’s Day 5 of 30 Days of Truth. If you don’t know what 30 Days of Truth is all about, I encourage you to go to Angel Believes and check it out…you'll be glad that you did!
Today’s question: Something you hope to do in your life.
Wow there are so many things I want to do in my life that I couldn’t possibly pick just one…so I made a list (y’all know how much I love lists).
- See my children grow up to be happy, successful, loving, caring, educated, smart, loved, adored, amazing women and man. This is truly the one thing I hope for more than anything else…my babies are my life!
- Become successful doing something I love. I hope that something is blogging and while I am on the right path it’s a long, steep climb up—but I CAN do it!
- Go to Italy before I die. This is something that I have dreamed of doing for years and come hell or high water I will do it!
- Help other people. More specifically help victims of domestic violence.
- Start an organization to help women and men in their battle with child support. This is something that means a lot to me. For 11 years I have fought with the system to make my daughter’s father accountable and for 11 years the system has failed me and my daughter.
- Be happy! I’m talking just blissfully happy…hey I’m a SAHM of four kids…I deserve a little happiness every once in a while!
Alright your turn…tell me something you hope to do in your life!
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Day 4 of 30 Days of Truth…this is so much harder than I thought it would be, but I love it!
Alright today’s question is: Something you have to forgive someone for.
I don’t normally hold grudges, people do me wrong and I usually forgive and forget pretty easily. The one person that I have never forgiven for the things he did to me is my oldest daughter’s father. And while I would love to sit here and say that he too can be forgiven and that all of the things he did can be forgotten I can’t say that. I will probably never forgive him or forget what he put me through. That is one grudge I intend to hold onto for quite a while longer.
Alright today’s question is: Something you have to forgive someone for.
I don’t normally hold grudges, people do me wrong and I usually forgive and forget pretty easily. The one person that I have never forgiven for the things he did to me is my oldest daughter’s father. And while I would love to sit here and say that he too can be forgiven and that all of the things he did can be forgotten I can’t say that. I will probably never forgive him or forget what he put me through. That is one grudge I intend to hold onto for quite a while longer.
If there is one thing that moms the world over relish it is their bath time. Some of us like baths and some of us like showers, but I can guarantee you that all of us LOVE bath time! Having four kids running around all day screaming at me, demanding this and that, and beating the crap out of me makes me one very tired and completely stressed out mom at the end of a long day, but I know that all I have to do is go into the bathroom, lock the door, turn on the shower and let go of all of the days worried. Of course, I am a bath person—I will take a shower, but I prefer to take a bath. Getting me out of a hot relaxing tub at night and into the shower is going to be hard sell.
When I was asked to review the Waterpik showerhead I was hesitant, but decided that it looked too indulgent and relaxing to pass up. Waterpik has been around since 1962 and have been committed to developing innovative personal and oral care products. They are dedicated to creating products that will not only improve the health and well-being of their consumers, but provide a truly transforming experience. WaterPik showerheads are designed using their patented OptiFLOW technology, to maximize water pressure by increasing water force by up to 30%! This provides you with an enjoyable shower, so you feel refreshed and invigorated.
I was sent the Waterpik Easy Select Medallion showerhead to review. As soon as I opened the box containing the Easy Select Medallion I couldn’t wait to remove my old showerhead and install the Easy Select. The Easy Select Medallion looks indulgent and sleek, like it was made to grace the showers of the rich and famous. Ultra sleek and sophisticated the Easy Select Medallion looks as beautiful as the amazing shower it provides. It took some pleading on my part, but I finally convinced my husband (aka SO NOT Mr. Fixit) to install the Easy Select. My husband, who grows inpatient starting the dryer wasn’t too happy about installing the Easy Select Medallion , but I promised him that the installation was a breeze so he reluctantly agreed. It literally took 5 minutes to install the Easy Select Medallion , and that included removing the old showerhead. I’m pretty sure that hubby was impressed with how easy the installation was as well.
As I mentioned above I am more of a long, hot bath kinda gal, but the Easy Select looked so new and shiny and tempting that I couldn’t resist taking a shower (as soon as hubby installed it). The Waterpik Easy Select has 5 custom spray settings (my personal favorite is the Circular Massage) and with the spray selector on the handle of the showerhead it was so easy to switch between the different settings to find the flow I liked best. I have to admit, my shower with the Easy Select was AMAZING. The water flow was perfect on each of the settings and I loved the fact that the hose was flexible and had a 5 foot range.
Even though I still indulge every once in a while in a nice hot bath, more often than not I find myself showering (and loving it) with the Easy Select Medallion!
When I was asked to review the Waterpik showerhead I was hesitant, but decided that it looked too indulgent and relaxing to pass up. Waterpik has been around since 1962 and have been committed to developing innovative personal and oral care products. They are dedicated to creating products that will not only improve the health and well-being of their consumers, but provide a truly transforming experience. WaterPik showerheads are designed using their patented OptiFLOW technology, to maximize water pressure by increasing water force by up to 30%! This provides you with an enjoyable shower, so you feel refreshed and invigorated.
I was sent the Waterpik Easy Select Medallion showerhead to review. As soon as I opened the box containing the Easy Select Medallion I couldn’t wait to remove my old showerhead and install the Easy Select. The Easy Select Medallion looks indulgent and sleek, like it was made to grace the showers of the rich and famous. Ultra sleek and sophisticated the Easy Select Medallion looks as beautiful as the amazing shower it provides. It took some pleading on my part, but I finally convinced my husband (aka SO NOT Mr. Fixit) to install the Easy Select. My husband, who grows inpatient starting the dryer wasn’t too happy about installing the Easy Select Medallion , but I promised him that the installation was a breeze so he reluctantly agreed. It literally took 5 minutes to install the Easy Select Medallion , and that included removing the old showerhead. I’m pretty sure that hubby was impressed with how easy the installation was as well.
As I mentioned above I am more of a long, hot bath kinda gal, but the Easy Select looked so new and shiny and tempting that I couldn’t resist taking a shower (as soon as hubby installed it). The Waterpik Easy Select has 5 custom spray settings (my personal favorite is the Circular Massage) and with the spray selector on the handle of the showerhead it was so easy to switch between the different settings to find the flow I liked best. I have to admit, my shower with the Easy Select was AMAZING. The water flow was perfect on each of the settings and I loved the fact that the hose was flexible and had a 5 foot range.
Even though I still indulge every once in a while in a nice hot bath, more often than not I find myself showering (and loving it) with the Easy Select Medallion!
This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of PBM Products. All opinions are 100% mine.
The other day at Wal Mart I went into the baby section to pick up a couple of new sippy cups for the babies. As I looked around I couldn’t believe how much things had changed just in the short amount of time since my youngest had been a baby. Especially the Parent’s Choice formula (PBM Products )—what was once plain, unappealing cans has turned into something so attractive (I love the new heart logo). The cans used to look like the store brand that they are, but the new packaging makes Parent’s Choice stand out from their competitors; the look is clean and attractive, the labels are easy to read with product type, age, and benefits all easily visible. I did notice that even though the can had changed the sizes are still the same—which means the same great Parent’s Choice value!
And for those of you who are hesitant about buying store brand formula, let me give you some information that may help ease your mind. Parent’s Choice continues to meet all of the FDA’s strict guidelines, like their national brand competitors. Parent’s Choice offers complete nutrition for baby’s health and development. DHA & ARA to help support brain & eye development. You can even visit ParentsChoiceFormula.com for more information and to access our ‘Savings Calculator’ to see the real difference switching from national to store brand can save…you will be shocked!
You can even visit Parent’s Choice on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Parents-Choice-Infant-Formula/31916575476). And even more awesome Walmart.com will be selling the Parent’s Choice formula online soon and offer free shipping!
Things change, and even though I love the look of the new Parent’s Choice formula, I’m pretty sure I’ll just admire it from afar and let someone else have the baby!
The time for Holiday shopping and gift wrapping is right around the corner (alright maybe it’s down the block) but it’s coming—soon! One of my absolute favorite things about the holidays is buying and wrapping gifts, I love for my gifts to be wrapped perfectly and look amazing…it makes me smile just thinking about it! If you are a gift wrapping guru like me then I have a very cool contest to tell you about!
Scotch Brand is holding their search for the 2010 Most Gifted Wrapper! Here’s a little more about the contest and details on how you can win the $10,000 grand prize!
Eight finalists—four amateurs and four professionals—will receive an all-expense paid trip to New York City, where they’ll compete for $10,000 and the title of Scotch Brand Most Gifted Wrapper. The contest will take place on Friday, December 3, 2010 at Rockefeller Center—New York’s definitive holiday hot spot.
To nominate yourself or someone else, just log onto www.MostGiftedWrapper.com and share with us:
● In 100 words or less, why your nominee (which could be you) has what it takes
- creativity, passion, expertise - to be the Scotch Brand Most Gifted Wrapper.
● Your nominee’s best gift-wrapping tip, in 30 words or less.
● Up to two photos of your nominee’s gift-wrapping work (optional, but
strongly encouraged).
● Whether the nominee is a professional or amateur gift wrapper.
◦ A professional is someone who currently or has previously earned income as a gift wrapper at department stores, specialty stores, etc.*
The person who nominates the grand-prize winner will also take home $1,000 for his/her winning recommendation.* Entries must be received no later than October 18, 2010.
So what are you waiting for? Head on over to www.MostGiftedWrapper.com and nominate yourself or someone you know!
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Today’s question is: Something you have to forgive yourself for.
This one is going to be deep, and to be completely honest I’m not even sure I can get through it without tears, but I’m going to try.
My maternal grandmother passed away when my mother was very young, sadly I never got to meet the woman who I look almost exactly like or my maternal grandfather either as he died before my grandmother. Growing up my my great-grandmother(or mamaw as I called her) was my grandma and I loved her dearly. Being the second oldest grandchild I had the chance to spend a few years with both of them before they both eventually passed; my papaw who passed when I was barely 2 and my mamaw who passed when I was 13.
It was my grandmother who I shared secrets with when I was little and who sat patiently playing in the mud with me watching as I made the best mud pies ever, and who taught me to make cherry pie from scratch—those moments still bring tears to my eyes when I think about them, even all these years later.
When my grandmother died it was a very difficult time for me; several years before she passed my grandmother was diagnosed with colon cancer and fought it into remission, but it came back and it came back with a vengeance. On top of the cancer, that by this time was terminal, my grandmother had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's a few years before. She was different; she didn’t know where she was most days, she didn’t remember her own children, but she did remember me and that spoke volumes about our relationship.
I still remember the day she passed like it was yesterday. I remember the family members being called and told that my grandmother would not make it through the night. I remember the smell of the nursing home as I sat with my uncle and helped watch my younger cousins in the lobby. I remember the nurse’s voice that echoed: “Code Blue” and my grandmothers room number over the intercom. I remember standing paralyzed in the hallway by my grandmothers room. And I remember one by one my mom, my aunts, and cousins walking into my grandmothers room to say “goodbye. But I couldn’t move, I couldn’t bring myself to see her that way. I remember my mom telling me that it was ok and knowing that in my gut I couldn’t possibly go in her room. So I didn’t go in, I didn’t see her finally at peace, no more pain or confusion, I didn’t say goodbye.
Not saying goodbye to my grandmother that day, or at her visitation a few days later, is something I have never forgiven myself for. I remember one of my aunts telling me, “You’ll never forgive yourself if you don’t go up there and see her and say goodbye.” I hated my aunt for the longest time for saying that to me; I was 13, I had never had to deal with death before and I had just lost someone who had been my whole world for as long as I could remember and I didn’t know how to handle it.
Looking back I realize that even though I didn’t go into her room that night and even though I didn’t go up to her casket and say “goodbye” I did say goodbye, on my own terms and in a way that I was comfortable with.
I miss my mamaw, sometimes so much that it hurts more than it did then, but I know she watches over me and keeps me safe and doesn’t ever once think of the events of that night!
I love you Mamaw Clara!
By the way this was probably the hardest thing I have ever had to write, but I feel so much better knowing that I did!
This one is going to be deep, and to be completely honest I’m not even sure I can get through it without tears, but I’m going to try.
My maternal grandmother passed away when my mother was very young, sadly I never got to meet the woman who I look almost exactly like or my maternal grandfather either as he died before my grandmother. Growing up my my great-grandmother(or mamaw as I called her) was my grandma and I loved her dearly. Being the second oldest grandchild I had the chance to spend a few years with both of them before they both eventually passed; my papaw who passed when I was barely 2 and my mamaw who passed when I was 13.
It was my grandmother who I shared secrets with when I was little and who sat patiently playing in the mud with me watching as I made the best mud pies ever, and who taught me to make cherry pie from scratch—those moments still bring tears to my eyes when I think about them, even all these years later.
When my grandmother died it was a very difficult time for me; several years before she passed my grandmother was diagnosed with colon cancer and fought it into remission, but it came back and it came back with a vengeance. On top of the cancer, that by this time was terminal, my grandmother had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's a few years before. She was different; she didn’t know where she was most days, she didn’t remember her own children, but she did remember me and that spoke volumes about our relationship.
I still remember the day she passed like it was yesterday. I remember the family members being called and told that my grandmother would not make it through the night. I remember the smell of the nursing home as I sat with my uncle and helped watch my younger cousins in the lobby. I remember the nurse’s voice that echoed: “Code Blue” and my grandmothers room number over the intercom. I remember standing paralyzed in the hallway by my grandmothers room. And I remember one by one my mom, my aunts, and cousins walking into my grandmothers room to say “goodbye. But I couldn’t move, I couldn’t bring myself to see her that way. I remember my mom telling me that it was ok and knowing that in my gut I couldn’t possibly go in her room. So I didn’t go in, I didn’t see her finally at peace, no more pain or confusion, I didn’t say goodbye.
Not saying goodbye to my grandmother that day, or at her visitation a few days later, is something I have never forgiven myself for. I remember one of my aunts telling me, “You’ll never forgive yourself if you don’t go up there and see her and say goodbye.” I hated my aunt for the longest time for saying that to me; I was 13, I had never had to deal with death before and I had just lost someone who had been my whole world for as long as I could remember and I didn’t know how to handle it.
Looking back I realize that even though I didn’t go into her room that night and even though I didn’t go up to her casket and say “goodbye” I did say goodbye, on my own terms and in a way that I was comfortable with.
I miss my mamaw, sometimes so much that it hurts more than it did then, but I know she watches over me and keeps me safe and doesn’t ever once think of the events of that night!
I love you Mamaw Clara!
By the way this was probably the hardest thing I have ever had to write, but I feel so much better knowing that I did!
Friday, August 20, 2010
On Monday I start school, again. As excited as I am for this coming semester: new school, fresh start, new experiences and people, I am also terrified about one particular class—college algebra! It’s not that I don’t get algebra, it’s not even that I dislike algebra, it’s that algebra makes me a nervous wreck. Just thinking about starting this class has me anxious and completely stress, thank goodness my other classes are all communications related!Last semester I had to take a pre-algebra course for college (that means you get to pay the same amount as you do for your other classes, but it doesn’t count towards your progress…gotta love that). In my defense I did happen to take the COMPASS test (or what I like to call…the college placement test for old people) about 10 years after I finished high school, so I didn’t remember anything. I did extremely well in my pre-algebra class, nothing below a 92 (yay me) but college algebra is another story entirely! Thank goodness I had a secret weapon last semester in my TI-83 Plus, for those of you not into the whole math thing, that’s a Texas Instruments calculator and my best friend last semester. This semester called for something a little more advanced, and I found that in the TI-Nspire!
A couple of weeks ago I had the opportunity to do a review for the TI-Nspire, knowing that my college algebra class was getting closer and closer I couldn’t resist the opportunity. Texas Instruments (the company responsible for making the invaluable TI-Nspire, “provides a wide range of advanced tools connecting the classroom experience with real-world applications, helping students and teachers to explore math and science interactively.” The TI-Nspire with Touchpad is a graphing calculator that is perfect for any student (middle school through college) taking math, from algebra to calculus. In fact, the TI-Nspire can be used in 19 high school and college level math classes including: algebra and calculus, math and science, statistics, trigonometry, and engineering math. Even more comforting is the fact that the TI-Nspire graphing calculators are backed by research that shows graphing calculators can help to improve students’ math skills. It’s a fact that more students are taking higher level-math courses today; according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress report card for 2008 shows that the number of 17 year olds taking pre-calculus has tripled over the last 30 years. The TI-Nspire graphing calculator with touchpad has many advanced features that allow students to gain a better understanding as they make their way through advanced courses.
From the Texas Instruments Website:
TI-Nspire Graphing Calculator Features
- Like a computer in your hand. The versatile graphing calculator has many computer-like features, including a large, high-resolution screen, drop down menus and a built-in cursor which helps students explore problem solving strategies in real-time.
- Save and review work. Thanks to electronic document capabilities and built-in 20 MB of storage, students can create, save and edit their work similar to the word processing and file storage of a computer.
- 2 calculators, plus computer software, in one. Interchangeable keypads allow students to use the calculator in TI-Nspire, TI-84 Plus and TI-83 Plus modes, and included computer software brings the TI-Nspire experience to a PC or Mac.
- FREE access to AP*, SAT* and ACT prep questions from The Princeton Review, including AP calculus, biology, chemistry, economics and all-new 2009 physics questions
- FREE minutes of online homework help from Tutor.com for entering your graphing calculator id at http://www.tutor.com/ti/
- GraphiTI stickers for students to design and customize their calculator are available online for purchase
- FREE downloadable games and application
Buy it!
You can find a full list of places to purchase this and other Texas Instruments products on the TI website where you can purchase the TI-Nspire as well!
Win it: Mandatory Entry!
To enter this giveaway please a comment on this post telling me why your child (or maybe yourself if you’re a college student) needs a math makeover! This is super easy, but it’s mandatory and must be completed before any extra entries are counted!
I have 1 “Math Makeover Kit” to give away to one of my very lucky readers! The “Math Makeover Kit” contains:
· A new TI-Nspire with Touchpad – this also includes the new computer software so students can bring their graphing calculator experience to a PC or Mac. · 60 free minutes at Tutor.com.
· Several other fun items, including T-shirts, water bottles and cell phone charms.
Extra Entries: Please leave separate comments for each additional entry!
Follow MIBR via Networked Blogs: 2 extra entries
Follow MIBR on Twitter: 2 extra entries
Grab our Back to School Blowout Button: 2 extra entries
Tweet this giveaway on Twitter (copy and paste the following Tweet or ReTweet and include @Allie_23): 2x per day per length of giveaway
I entered to win a Math Makeover Kit from Texas Instruments at MIBR http://tinyurl.com/38g9p36 @Allie_23
Follow Texas Instruments on Twitter: 2 extra entries
“Like” MIBR on Facebook: 2 extra entries
“Like” Texas Instruments on Facebook: 2 extra entries
Share this giveaway on Facebook: 2x per day per length of giveaway
Participate in one of the discussions on MIBR’s FB Page: 2 extra entries
Stumble this giveaway: 2 extra entries
Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post: 5 extra entries
This giveaway ends on Friday September 3, 2010 at 11:59 PM EST. One winner will be chosen via Random.org and announced in a separate winner’s post. Winner will have 48 hours to contact me and claim their prize; failure to do so will result in winner forfeiting his prize and me choosing a new winner.
I entered to win a Math Makeover Kit from Texas Instruments at MIBR http://tinyurl.com/38g9p36 @Allie_23
Follow Texas Instruments on Twitter: 2 extra entries
“Like” MIBR on Facebook: 2 extra entries
“Like” Texas Instruments on Facebook: 2 extra entries
Share this giveaway on Facebook: 2x per day per length of giveaway
Participate in one of the discussions on MIBR’s FB Page: 2 extra entries
Stumble this giveaway: 2 extra entries
Blog about this giveaway with a link to this post: 5 extra entries
This giveaway ends on Friday September 3, 2010 at 11:59 PM EST. One winner will be chosen via Random.org and announced in a separate winner’s post. Winner will have 48 hours to contact me and claim their prize; failure to do so will result in winner forfeiting his prize and me choosing a new winner.
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