In the next few weeks we'll be making a trip to my dad's house for the family reunion. I'm sure many of you have heard me talk about the pimpness of it before. However, I think this time I'm going to have to take some photos.
I wish my dad would have invested in an outdoor kitchen with a nice grill top and counters. I think he would probably spend more time outside and it'd be nice to have family gatherings and bbqs.
I've had my eye on a new grill and right now we're just waiting til the end of the season when they go on clearance!
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Fatness.
I've gotten to the point where I'm really starting to realize that I need to get something going on with my diet. At one point I was at an all time low right after the baby when I was breast feeding.
Now I think I should look into the diet patch! You can apply the patch and it helps you through the day control your appetite.
My family reunion is just around the corner and God knows...if I don't shed these unwanted pounds my aunts and uncles are going to talk about how fat I've gotten!
I think I would probably lose fifteen pounds in the next three weeks!
Now I think I should look into the diet patch! You can apply the patch and it helps you through the day control your appetite.
My family reunion is just around the corner and God knows...if I don't shed these unwanted pounds my aunts and uncles are going to talk about how fat I've gotten!
I think I would probably lose fifteen pounds in the next three weeks!
A goldmine.
When I was the executive director of an assisted living residence we were always looking for ways to make some extra money for the residents activities and the "extras".
Another need was that the residents were constantly looking for nuts or candy to eat! They loved treats and we were never able to get a big vending machine into the building because people were afraid that we wouldn't generate enough revenue.
The perfect solution would have been to get a vendstar. With Vendstar you can have a small vending machine for candy, gum, or nuts. Typically, these are the quarter machines that you see at restuarants.
Not only would this cure the sweet tooth for employees and residents a like, but it would also bring in a little extra money that could go towards resident activities or even their monthly eat outs at a restaurant.
Another need was that the residents were constantly looking for nuts or candy to eat! They loved treats and we were never able to get a big vending machine into the building because people were afraid that we wouldn't generate enough revenue.
The perfect solution would have been to get a vendstar. With Vendstar you can have a small vending machine for candy, gum, or nuts. Typically, these are the quarter machines that you see at restuarants.
Not only would this cure the sweet tooth for employees and residents a like, but it would also bring in a little extra money that could go towards resident activities or even their monthly eat outs at a restaurant.
FREEZE!
I have a horrible back and I always have. I've tried just about everything in the book to relieve the pain including some of Shawna's muscle relaxers the other night!
Then of course I remembered that I was mailed a free sample of Freeze It! It had been on the counter for some time and Lydia had actually stolen a few packages and raved about it.
So I decided I should probably give it a shot too!
I was so amazed at how fast Freeze It worked! Plus, it wasn't greasy and didn't stain my clothing or the sheets.
In the past I've used this theragesic stuff and that will burn holes in your lungs it is so strong and toxic. Shawna won't even let me sleep next to her in fear that it might get on her!
With Freeze It it was like a fresh and relaxing topical that really made my back relax within minutes.
After reading the packaging I was quite impressed to see that it was all natural and there wasn't one ingredient that I had to worry about having negative effects.
Plus, after viewing the website they also have an easy to use tube. I think that would probably be idea because that way I could apply a nice layer on my back without the help of anyone else.
I like the fact that I could apply it as thick or thin as I wanted.
I highly recommend Freeze It and I've already ordered two tubes to help with my aching backaches!
This post sponsored by: Freeze It!
Then of course I remembered that I was mailed a free sample of Freeze It! It had been on the counter for some time and Lydia had actually stolen a few packages and raved about it.
So I decided I should probably give it a shot too!
I was so amazed at how fast Freeze It worked! Plus, it wasn't greasy and didn't stain my clothing or the sheets.
In the past I've used this theragesic stuff and that will burn holes in your lungs it is so strong and toxic. Shawna won't even let me sleep next to her in fear that it might get on her!
With Freeze It it was like a fresh and relaxing topical that really made my back relax within minutes.
After reading the packaging I was quite impressed to see that it was all natural and there wasn't one ingredient that I had to worry about having negative effects.
Plus, after viewing the website they also have an easy to use tube. I think that would probably be idea because that way I could apply a nice layer on my back without the help of anyone else.
I like the fact that I could apply it as thick or thin as I wanted.
I highly recommend Freeze It and I've already ordered two tubes to help with my aching backaches!
This post sponsored by: Freeze It!
Dragging.
This morning I woke up in the wee hours of the morning to find out that I had fallen asleep once again in Graem's bed. The whole idea was that I was going to put her to sleep and then come upstairs and watch "Big Love" on DVD with Shawna.
By the time I made it up stairs Shawna was asleep.
It seems like the past few weeks we have been dragging and not getting enough sleep. I think it's the constant go and we really haven't had a good night to just hang out inside, take it easy, and go to bed early.
Good thing we don't have a thing on our agenda tonight except eat boxed fried chicken and watch television!
By the time I made it up stairs Shawna was asleep.
It seems like the past few weeks we have been dragging and not getting enough sleep. I think it's the constant go and we really haven't had a good night to just hang out inside, take it easy, and go to bed early.
Good thing we don't have a thing on our agenda tonight except eat boxed fried chicken and watch television!
Monday, July 23, 2007
Saving the earth...one day at a time.
We do what we can to make a positive reflection on the environment and earth. We recycle cans and paper. Most recently we purchased a smaller car that was more energy effecient and used less gas.
It's interesting how we can do our parts but other people in different parts of the world have no clue! Even when Shawna lived in Houston she had no idea that there was such thing as recycling.
Over the past decades environmental standards have been pretty non-existant. It hasn't been until recent that reform has taken place and put standards into place for oil companies and other companies that deal with pollutant materials.
Check out the BP Refinery Fact Sheet that was recently published.
It seems like companies like BP are doing whatever they can to make sure that we get the oil that we need. To some extent it's inevitable that an accident or damage is going to happen every once in a while.
Here are the precautions that are currently being taken:
1. BP is spending $3 billion dollars to increase modifications to their Whiting Refinery.
2. They are releasing 99.9 clean water into Lake Michigan and not the sludge that has been represented in the media.
3. They are well within the environmental and goverment limits.
As long as the government has standards and a watchdog making sure that companies do as they are suppose to ... I suspect that pollution and manufacturing will have even less of an impact in the upcoming years.
It's interesting how we can do our parts but other people in different parts of the world have no clue! Even when Shawna lived in Houston she had no idea that there was such thing as recycling.
Over the past decades environmental standards have been pretty non-existant. It hasn't been until recent that reform has taken place and put standards into place for oil companies and other companies that deal with pollutant materials.
Check out the BP Refinery Fact Sheet that was recently published.
It seems like companies like BP are doing whatever they can to make sure that we get the oil that we need. To some extent it's inevitable that an accident or damage is going to happen every once in a while.
Here are the precautions that are currently being taken:
1. BP is spending $3 billion dollars to increase modifications to their Whiting Refinery.
2. They are releasing 99.9 clean water into Lake Michigan and not the sludge that has been represented in the media.
3. They are well within the environmental and goverment limits.
As long as the government has standards and a watchdog making sure that companies do as they are suppose to ... I suspect that pollution and manufacturing will have even less of an impact in the upcoming years.
What a weekend!
This weekend we did just about everything - including, hopefully - getting Shawna knocked up! We put in three great looking embryos and of course I had to be primary caregiver of Graem this weekend when Shawna was on bedrest.
Yesterday we went out to see L&L's new baby. She's absolutely beautiful and Graem even got told hold her.
We dropped Shawna off at home and did some geocaching! We had a great time and found three different sites.
Yesterday we went out to see L&L's new baby. She's absolutely beautiful and Graem even got told hold her.
We dropped Shawna off at home and did some geocaching! We had a great time and found three different sites.
Friday, July 20, 2007
If it's not one thing...
It's another! After getting our fridge, washing machine, and dryer replaced we are still having problems with our home theatre system that we purchased about three years ago.
In the middle of watching television or even a DVD it all of a sudden goes blank and stops working!
We love home theater seating and so we're in the market for a new home theatre system that is a name brand and will work with our television and existing set up.
Of course, we could always just bring the Sony home theatre system upstairs down to the living room.
In the middle of watching television or even a DVD it all of a sudden goes blank and stops working!
We love home theater seating and so we're in the market for a new home theatre system that is a name brand and will work with our television and existing set up.
Of course, we could always just bring the Sony home theatre system upstairs down to the living room.
Will I ever get...
my own set of business cards?
I have been with the company for almost ten years and since then we have changed offices, logos, and I've even become licensed!
The last time I went to a meeting for work I had to hand out a business card that had absolutely everything marked out from address, phone number, fax number, and email.
Good thing my name was still the same!
I think it's time my boss break down and get us some new business cards.
Image is everything, right?
I have been with the company for almost ten years and since then we have changed offices, logos, and I've even become licensed!
The last time I went to a meeting for work I had to hand out a business card that had absolutely everything marked out from address, phone number, fax number, and email.
Good thing my name was still the same!
I think it's time my boss break down and get us some new business cards.
Image is everything, right?
I want to *pump* you up!
I have friends that are really into the fitness scene. (Notice I did not include myself!)
Typically, they tend to have a hard time meeting people who are into some of the same things and value fitness. When they're at the club they're working out and when they go out on the town sometimes you can't tell who really works out.
Fitness dating has become really popular for people who love their body and like to work out.
It just makes sense to find someone who likes the same types of things as yourself!
That's why there's finally a places for fitness singles to meet!
FitnessDates.com offers a great website where people who are into working out can hook up. The website is really easy to use and you can view all of the profiles instantly. You can join for free and you can even see pictures of singles that are in your area!
Typically, they tend to have a hard time meeting people who are into some of the same things and value fitness. When they're at the club they're working out and when they go out on the town sometimes you can't tell who really works out.
Fitness dating has become really popular for people who love their body and like to work out.
It just makes sense to find someone who likes the same types of things as yourself!
That's why there's finally a places for fitness singles to meet!
FitnessDates.com offers a great website where people who are into working out can hook up. The website is really easy to use and you can view all of the profiles instantly. You can join for free and you can even see pictures of singles that are in your area!
This weekend...
well...it appears that our friends L&L have decided to have their baby and we're quite excited. It's still pretty hush hush but L's water broke this morning and I'm expecting that we'll get word sometime tomorrow that the baby has been born.
Of course, we're in Albany and won't get back in town til later tomorrow afternoon.
I'm guessing they're going to have a little girl!
Of course, we're in Albany and won't get back in town til later tomorrow afternoon.
I'm guessing they're going to have a little girl!
Get gothy, baby!
When I was in high school there was a pretty big goth movement. The hardest things for the goth kids were that they all seemed awkward and out of place in social situations and of course they were known as the school freaks.
In order to find goth dating they had to hang out in bars or in other parts of the town in order to find people with common interests.
Now there's a place for goth singles to come together and meet others that have similiar interests!
GothScene.com is a great website that is easy to use and also easy to sign up for. You can view profiles instantly and even set up your own within a matter of minutes.
It's a great way to cut to the chase and not have to look all over for someone as "gothy" as yourself!
In order to find goth dating they had to hang out in bars or in other parts of the town in order to find people with common interests.
Now there's a place for goth singles to come together and meet others that have similiar interests!
GothScene.com is a great website that is easy to use and also easy to sign up for. You can view profiles instantly and even set up your own within a matter of minutes.
It's a great way to cut to the chase and not have to look all over for someone as "gothy" as yourself!
We made it!
We're in Albany tonight and staying at the Hilton Gardens. It's quite nice here and I'm not sure we're going to want to leave in the morning!
Tomorrow is the big day that we've been waiting for and we're going to transfer the embryos back into Shawna. Our appointment is at 10:00am and so we're guessing that we'll be home by 1:00pm or so.
Tomorrow is the big day that we've been waiting for and we're going to transfer the embryos back into Shawna. Our appointment is at 10:00am and so we're guessing that we'll be home by 1:00pm or so.
I can't decide about...
going back to school. In my profession they offer a Masters program in Landscape Architecture but I'm not sure I'd benefit from it unless I wanted to teach college or university.
In most cases getting a higher education means going to classes during the day, staying up late at night working on assignments, and no income while attending school.
That's not the case any longer! Capella University makes it easy to get your online phd while working full time. You can attend their online university and they have many different degree programs that you can enroll in.
In fact, I have a few friends that are attending online schools and it's fitting in perfectly with their day to day routines - including a full time job!
In most cases getting a higher education means going to classes during the day, staying up late at night working on assignments, and no income while attending school.
That's not the case any longer! Capella University makes it easy to get your online phd while working full time. You can attend their online university and they have many different degree programs that you can enroll in.
In fact, I have a few friends that are attending online schools and it's fitting in perfectly with their day to day routines - including a full time job!
Friday, July 13, 2007
Cash or credit?
We have had credit card debt for over 10 years! Ever since Shawna and me have been together we have had collective debt - then married debt, then college debt, then infertility debt!
It was not until recently that we were able to get all of our debt paid for. At one point we had accumulated more than $30,000 of debt.
While it's been challenging with Shawna staying home with Graem we've been able to better balance our money and direct my salary towards getting our debt down. Also, a two year break from infertility has helped too!
One thing that we've always relied on was the idea of being able to use our credit cards for purchases. It has helped that our fertility center is able to accept credit cards.
When we were in the process of paying them the $20,000 for the upcoming IVF refund program she mentioned that she'd prefer me pay by check so that they didn't have to pay the fees... It just couldn't work out that way so I ended up using my credit card since the check we were expecting hadn't arrived in the mail!
In the end we had to do what we had to do... so we put it on a credit card, got the reward miles, and a nice little cash back rebate that went towards payment of our credit card!
For people like us making big purchases in many instances it just pays for us to use our credit cards. We all all of the rewards that we can get and we have two airline tickets that are just waiting to be used!
Another thing that any smart and educated consumer will make sure to do is compare credit cards, credit card comparison .
CardServicesales.com is a great website that allows merchants to accept credit cards. They provide the machines and software and it looks pretty easy to get started!
It was not until recently that we were able to get all of our debt paid for. At one point we had accumulated more than $30,000 of debt.
While it's been challenging with Shawna staying home with Graem we've been able to better balance our money and direct my salary towards getting our debt down. Also, a two year break from infertility has helped too!
One thing that we've always relied on was the idea of being able to use our credit cards for purchases. It has helped that our fertility center is able to accept credit cards.
When we were in the process of paying them the $20,000 for the upcoming IVF refund program she mentioned that she'd prefer me pay by check so that they didn't have to pay the fees... It just couldn't work out that way so I ended up using my credit card since the check we were expecting hadn't arrived in the mail!
In the end we had to do what we had to do... so we put it on a credit card, got the reward miles, and a nice little cash back rebate that went towards payment of our credit card!
For people like us making big purchases in many instances it just pays for us to use our credit cards. We all all of the rewards that we can get and we have two airline tickets that are just waiting to be used!
Another thing that any smart and educated consumer will make sure to do is compare credit cards, credit card comparison .
CardServicesales.com is a great website that allows merchants to accept credit cards. They provide the machines and software and it looks pretty easy to get started!
Monday, July 09, 2007
Latino love!
We have a few Latino friends and over the years they have really had a hard time finding their soul mates.
Our best friend, Alex, went through a few different people before he was actually able to settle down with his partner.
He should have just tried latin dating online.
LatinaRomance.com offers a great place for Latinos to meet other Latinos. I like the fact that it is free of charge and you can easily sign up and get your profile posted within minutes.
The profiles that are on the website are quite attractive and make the website look like something worth looking into!
Latina dating has never been easier!
Our best friend, Alex, went through a few different people before he was actually able to settle down with his partner.
He should have just tried latin dating online.
LatinaRomance.com offers a great place for Latinos to meet other Latinos. I like the fact that it is free of charge and you can easily sign up and get your profile posted within minutes.
The profiles that are on the website are quite attractive and make the website look like something worth looking into!
Latina dating has never been easier!
Back to the grind.
I really do think after such a crazy weekend I went to work this morning and was exhausted. Graem has been having major issues with going to sleep and half of the time I end up sleeping in her room.
Last night she woke up and wouldn't go back to sleep. I brought her upstairs and Shawna got mad and took her back downstairs.
Tonight, we're going to try something a little different. I'm going to read Graem a book in bed and then transfer her over to the bed. Of course, I know this won't go smoothly...but we've got to do something or else I end up sleeping all night in her bed!
Last night she woke up and wouldn't go back to sleep. I brought her upstairs and Shawna got mad and took her back downstairs.
Tonight, we're going to try something a little different. I'm going to read Graem a book in bed and then transfer her over to the bed. Of course, I know this won't go smoothly...but we've got to do something or else I end up sleeping all night in her bed!
Got big love?
I know there are probably a few bbw singles out there that read my website. That's why I want to give you information on how to find that special someone.
BBW dating can be hard...especially when you live in upstate New York!
Now I know you're probably wondering what BBW is...it stands for big and beautiful women!
What's great is that you can go to bbwromance.com and see both men and women who have signed up through the website. You can sign up for free and view all the other people who are looking for big love!
Good thing I never had to go to the website and was able to find my big mama years ago!
BBW dating can be hard...especially when you live in upstate New York!
Now I know you're probably wondering what BBW is...it stands for big and beautiful women!
What's great is that you can go to bbwromance.com and see both men and women who have signed up through the website. You can sign up for free and view all the other people who are looking for big love!
Good thing I never had to go to the website and was able to find my big mama years ago!
What a weekend!
We had such a crazy weekend full of concerts, museums, geocaching and fun!!
Saturday we went to the concert series and had a great time with L&L and L&J. Graem and J played during the concert and it was so fun to see them interact.
Sunday we went to the Strong Museum of Play and had such a great time. We got there when it opened and didn't leave til it closed.
Saturday we went to the concert series and had a great time with L&L and L&J. Graem and J played during the concert and it was so fun to see them interact.
Sunday we went to the Strong Museum of Play and had such a great time. We got there when it opened and didn't leave til it closed.
Family vacation?
I can't wait til Graem gets a little bit taller and a little bit older so that we can go to Disney in Orlando!
We had such a great time when we went a few years back (pre-kid) with my aunt and uncle. We stayed at a nice apartment complex that had a pool and did the whole Disney and Universal Studios.
In the next few years a Kissimmee vacation is going to be just perfect! I can only imagine how Grammy will react when she sess all of the great characters and fun rides!
We had such a great time when we went a few years back (pre-kid) with my aunt and uncle. We stayed at a nice apartment complex that had a pool and did the whole Disney and Universal Studios.
In the next few years a Kissimmee vacation is going to be just perfect! I can only imagine how Grammy will react when she sess all of the great characters and fun rides!
Darn home theatre system!
Our home theatre system downstairs has been making quite the racket. We purchased it when we bought the television about three years ago.
We purchased a middle of the line Pioneer DVD home theatre combo for around $500.
All of a sudden you can be watching television or even a DVD and the sound goes completely blank.
Sometimes the sound will actually make a loud buzzing noise too.
I've always liked home theater seating and having nice sound has really added to our video game and movie experience.
I guess at some point we're going to have to break down and buy a new one!
We purchased a middle of the line Pioneer DVD home theatre combo for around $500.
All of a sudden you can be watching television or even a DVD and the sound goes completely blank.
Sometimes the sound will actually make a loud buzzing noise too.
I've always liked home theater seating and having nice sound has really added to our video game and movie experience.
I guess at some point we're going to have to break down and buy a new one!
Friday, July 06, 2007
I just saw it...
and I want it.
I'm talking about the new Police cd. I saw it just the other day at Best Buy and looked at it for about 20 minutes. My favorite stalker song of all time is "Every breath you take".
There have been many remakes of the song over the years but none compare to The Police. Even Puff Daddy and Faith Hill came together to remake it.... it was a trainwreck to say the least!
When I was a kid my father owned every single police cd available. I'm sure he still listens to them, however, now it's on his iPod!
My uncle who was staying with us when I was younger used to blare the police on the radio and he even went to see The Police when they played at the Radio City Music Hall in New York City.
I would love to see The Police in concert. It seems like almost a great "rite of passage" that I think everyone should do at least once.
Obviously, Graem is too small now...but it'd be great fun to take her to some of the artists that we grew up with!
Now if I could just score some Police tickets for our 11 year anniversary...I'd be in good shape. At least for another 11 years!
I'm talking about the new Police cd. I saw it just the other day at Best Buy and looked at it for about 20 minutes. My favorite stalker song of all time is "Every breath you take".
There have been many remakes of the song over the years but none compare to The Police. Even Puff Daddy and Faith Hill came together to remake it.... it was a trainwreck to say the least!
When I was a kid my father owned every single police cd available. I'm sure he still listens to them, however, now it's on his iPod!
My uncle who was staying with us when I was younger used to blare the police on the radio and he even went to see The Police when they played at the Radio City Music Hall in New York City.
I would love to see The Police in concert. It seems like almost a great "rite of passage" that I think everyone should do at least once.
Obviously, Graem is too small now...but it'd be great fun to take her to some of the artists that we grew up with!
Now if I could just score some Police tickets for our 11 year anniversary...I'd be in good shape. At least for another 11 years!
For the love of God...
GET ME OUT OF THIS OFFICE.
I'm so ready to bust out of here on this beautiful day. I'm dying to go geocaching! It's so funny how involved Shawna and Graem have become. Shawna loves getting right in there and even stuck her hand in a pretty distgusting place a few weeks back. I was sure she was going to find a snake or some other distgusting something in the tree trunk!
I'm so ready to bust out of here on this beautiful day. I'm dying to go geocaching! It's so funny how involved Shawna and Graem have become. Shawna loves getting right in there and even stuck her hand in a pretty distgusting place a few weeks back. I was sure she was going to find a snake or some other distgusting something in the tree trunk!
Knock on wood.
We have both cars in good shape and even all of our appliances are working good! We've been pretty fortunate in that area. However, we just had to spend about $500 a few weeks ago on tires for my car and also an alignment.
Our friends had to purchase a Taurus Radiator and it cost them an arm and a leg.
I just hope that nothing *huge* breaks on either of our cars!
Of course, if it does...I know Radiator.com has just about anything and everything that we would need to fix a car radiator. They also have a great 1-800 number with people that are trained to help you with your radiator and car needs.
Our friends had to purchase a Taurus Radiator and it cost them an arm and a leg.
I just hope that nothing *huge* breaks on either of our cars!
Of course, if it does...I know Radiator.com has just about anything and everything that we would need to fix a car radiator. They also have a great 1-800 number with people that are trained to help you with your radiator and car needs.
I love herbs!
I've started going some alternative medicine here and there and I figure it really can't hurt my body and might even help.
Most recently I've come across HGH in the media. A few weeks ago I read an article in "Newsweek" and it peaked my interest.
Sytropin.com offers HGH in a spray form and it's a homeopathic product that makes you look and feel younger. Typically, with the products you spray a few sprays right on your tongue and it's suppose to take affect pretty quickly.
Maybe I need some of this!
This post sponsored by: Sytropin.com
Most recently I've come across HGH in the media. A few weeks ago I read an article in "Newsweek" and it peaked my interest.
Sytropin.com offers HGH in a spray form and it's a homeopathic product that makes you look and feel younger. Typically, with the products you spray a few sprays right on your tongue and it's suppose to take affect pretty quickly.
Maybe I need some of this!
This post sponsored by: Sytropin.com
Is it bad??
that I get so excited for a weekend to come?
I know typically, you don't hear me on this blog when things are going good at work. That's because I tend to bitch about when things are up in the air, I'm working too much, and getting worn out.
Lately, things have been manageable and aside from being out of the office a few days a week I'm really starting to keep my head a float.
Of course...I love my weekends and I can't wait for this afternoon to come when I can pick Graem up and we can go look for treasure!
I know typically, you don't hear me on this blog when things are going good at work. That's because I tend to bitch about when things are up in the air, I'm working too much, and getting worn out.
Lately, things have been manageable and aside from being out of the office a few days a week I'm really starting to keep my head a float.
Of course...I love my weekends and I can't wait for this afternoon to come when I can pick Graem up and we can go look for treasure!
Thursday, July 05, 2007
I've got to keep up!
I've thought about going back to school to get my masters degree. The reality is that I just don't have the time nor the money to do it.
Now of course distance learning through Capella University is available. That of course makes all of my excuses pretty invalid!
Capella University has a great website where you can see the different programs they have available and even get an idea of what it would be like to be a student there.
The website is easy to use and they have tons of great accredited programs to choose from.
Of course, I still have to remember that living in Ithaca I'd make the exact same amount with having a bachelor's degree as having a master's! From a financial standpoint, it wouldn't make sense unless I was willing to move to a bigger city.
Now of course distance learning through Capella University is available. That of course makes all of my excuses pretty invalid!
Capella University has a great website where you can see the different programs they have available and even get an idea of what it would be like to be a student there.
The website is easy to use and they have tons of great accredited programs to choose from.
Of course, I still have to remember that living in Ithaca I'd make the exact same amount with having a bachelor's degree as having a master's! From a financial standpoint, it wouldn't make sense unless I was willing to move to a bigger city.
I wish we knew...
of an innovative tutor that could either come over and tutor Grammy or a place where we could drop Grammy off to get some extra educational teaching.
Shawna works her quite a bit and I've even started workiong with her in the evening to build her vocabulary. Lately, we've been working on letters and I'm trying to teach her words like Hot and Cold.
Score Learning Centers are often available in many areas and they offer kids ages 4-14 educational tutoring and even summer programs!
This post sponsored by: Score Learning Centers
Shawna works her quite a bit and I've even started workiong with her in the evening to build her vocabulary. Lately, we've been working on letters and I'm trying to teach her words like Hot and Cold.
Score Learning Centers are often available in many areas and they offer kids ages 4-14 educational tutoring and even summer programs!
This post sponsored by: Score Learning Centers
Geocaching!
We've started doing family geocaching and we've had such a great time! Basically, for those that don't know what in the hell I'm talking about...
We check on the website www.geocaching.com and find different destinations that people have hidden "treasure" or just a sign in sheet. Then we use our GPS and find the destination.
We can take a treasure, but we have to leave a treasure, or if it's a sign in sheet then we just sign "Two Mamas".
Graem loves finding the treasure and I can't believe how Shawna has actually been encouraged to go hiking too!
It's nice to be outdoors, do something fun, and healthy too!
We check on the website www.geocaching.com and find different destinations that people have hidden "treasure" or just a sign in sheet. Then we use our GPS and find the destination.
We can take a treasure, but we have to leave a treasure, or if it's a sign in sheet then we just sign "Two Mamas".
Graem loves finding the treasure and I can't believe how Shawna has actually been encouraged to go hiking too!
It's nice to be outdoors, do something fun, and healthy too!
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Our little reader!
We've already started teaching Graem how to read. She knows how to read HOT, COLD, and today she even picked up when I wrote down her name.
She loves reading books and I can see her picking up pretty quickly on reading. I'm sure getting reading tutors would help in the process.
When she turns 4 we might even look into going to a Score Learning Center. They offer experienced tutors and programs for kids who need or want some extra help.
This post sponsored by: Score Learning Centers
She loves reading books and I can see her picking up pretty quickly on reading. I'm sure getting reading tutors would help in the process.
When she turns 4 we might even look into going to a Score Learning Center. They offer experienced tutors and programs for kids who need or want some extra help.
This post sponsored by: Score Learning Centers
Another ass whooping.
Tonight we have a softball game versus Uncle Joes. Last time we played them the game ended in five games and ended due to the mercy rule.
Tonight, I'm sure it will be no different. Good thing I'm not playing!
I'm excited to have the day off tomorrow and we don't have many plans. We're probably going to go over to our friend Diane's for a picnic/bbq and swimming in her pool.
I'm not sure how I feel about getting off in the middle of the week. The good thing is that after all is said and done it will be Thursday and then, of course, my favorite day --- Friday!!
Tonight, I'm sure it will be no different. Good thing I'm not playing!
I'm excited to have the day off tomorrow and we don't have many plans. We're probably going to go over to our friend Diane's for a picnic/bbq and swimming in her pool.
I'm not sure how I feel about getting off in the middle of the week. The good thing is that after all is said and done it will be Thursday and then, of course, my favorite day --- Friday!!
1+2=3?
Shawna was just commenting a few weeks back about how the kids at the elementary school were horrible at math. She didn't know whether to attribute that to the parents or the educators or both.
That's why when there is extra help available we're going to make sure that Graem gets it!
We might even start by looking at math tutors. Score Learning Centers offer some great programs that give kids ages 4-14 a head start or the extra jumpstart that they need to be successful in the classrooms.
This post sponsored by: Score Learning Centers
That's why when there is extra help available we're going to make sure that Graem gets it!
We might even start by looking at math tutors. Score Learning Centers offer some great programs that give kids ages 4-14 a head start or the extra jumpstart that they need to be successful in the classrooms.
This post sponsored by: Score Learning Centers
Long time, no post.
I'm sorry it's been awhile since I've posted last...but things have been really busy lately!
Plus, we've become somewhat obsessed with spending most of our free time with our new hobby of geocaching!
This weekend we spent time with L&L and even took them out to a few geocaching sights too.
Other than that, I did't have to go into work, Shawna got her period, and we are gearing up to start our next IVF cycle.
Plus, we've become somewhat obsessed with spending most of our free time with our new hobby of geocaching!
This weekend we spent time with L&L and even took them out to a few geocaching sights too.
Other than that, I did't have to go into work, Shawna got her period, and we are gearing up to start our next IVF cycle.
Friday, June 29, 2007
Bad credit got you down?
If you are like some of my friends then you are pretty bummed that you've let your credit score get low.
Now there's an option for Credit Cards For People With Bad Credit!
CreditCardSearchEngine.com offers a great financial website that helps you choose the cards that will be best for your financial situation. They have many different vendors that supply credit to people with bad credit.
In fact, they also have a search engine that will allow you to compare the cards that you might be interested in.
As usual, my advise is to make sure that you read the fine print and terms and conditions set forth.
Even with bad credit...there's no reason why you should pay high interest rates and an annual or membership fee!
Now there's an option for Credit Cards For People With Bad Credit!
CreditCardSearchEngine.com offers a great financial website that helps you choose the cards that will be best for your financial situation. They have many different vendors that supply credit to people with bad credit.
In fact, they also have a search engine that will allow you to compare the cards that you might be interested in.
As usual, my advise is to make sure that you read the fine print and terms and conditions set forth.
Even with bad credit...there's no reason why you should pay high interest rates and an annual or membership fee!
WEEKEND, here I come!
I'm so excited for the upcoming weekend! I don't think I have to go into work and we have some fun things planned! Saturday is a pretty free day and we might head to the pool and I know that Shawna has to mow the grass!
Sunday we have tickets to "Beauty and the Beast" at the Hanger Theatre.
We're really excited because this will be the first real play that we've taken Graem too. I hope she can sit back and enjoy it. However, the reality is...I have a feeling that her attention span is going to be pretty short-lived.
I think I'll be happy if we can get through an hour of the play!
Sunday we have tickets to "Beauty and the Beast" at the Hanger Theatre.
We're really excited because this will be the first real play that we've taken Graem too. I hope she can sit back and enjoy it. However, the reality is...I have a feeling that her attention span is going to be pretty short-lived.
I think I'll be happy if we can get through an hour of the play!
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Coming from the skeptic...
you have got to check out online dating!
Of course, I'm not just saying that because I met Shawna through an internet chat group. I see how our single friends are struggling to meet good, quality partners and it makes me so glad that I didn't have to go through that!
The great thing about online dating is that you get to test out someone and if you don't care for them you don't have to speak to them ever again! Plus, you don't have to dish out $50 for a date that is going nowhere fast!
Shawna and I met eleven years ago - the summer of 1996! She was in Texas and I was in New York. After a few months of talking on the phone I finally made the trip to see her. Things went...great!
Now, we have a beautiful daughter and have a great life together.
There's actually a new website out there that's helping people connect. FriendFinder offers a search engine directly on the homepage that will help you see people with your similar interests and even by location.
The website offers a great option to see profiles and you can even chat directly through the website.
The best part of the website is that -- It's FREE!! That's right...you won't have to spend a lot of money monthly to be part of dating service. That will help you pay for all of the dates you're going to have!
Of course, I'm not just saying that because I met Shawna through an internet chat group. I see how our single friends are struggling to meet good, quality partners and it makes me so glad that I didn't have to go through that!
The great thing about online dating is that you get to test out someone and if you don't care for them you don't have to speak to them ever again! Plus, you don't have to dish out $50 for a date that is going nowhere fast!
Shawna and I met eleven years ago - the summer of 1996! She was in Texas and I was in New York. After a few months of talking on the phone I finally made the trip to see her. Things went...great!
Now, we have a beautiful daughter and have a great life together.
There's actually a new website out there that's helping people connect. FriendFinder offers a search engine directly on the homepage that will help you see people with your similar interests and even by location.
The website offers a great option to see profiles and you can even chat directly through the website.
The best part of the website is that -- It's FREE!! That's right...you won't have to spend a lot of money monthly to be part of dating service. That will help you pay for all of the dates you're going to have!
MORE COFFEE.
I am flat out exhausted. I feel like I'm running on fumes. No matter how much coffee I drink I feel like it's not registering at all.
Tonight we have a softball game and I'm so tired right now that I don't even want to go.
I've got figure a way to get up to bed sooner. Graem was pretty clingy last night and every time I tried to move upstairs she would move with me.
Finally, at 2:00am I just took her upstairs with me.
Tonight we have a softball game and I'm so tired right now that I don't even want to go.
I've got figure a way to get up to bed sooner. Graem was pretty clingy last night and every time I tried to move upstairs she would move with me.
Finally, at 2:00am I just took her upstairs with me.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Happy Anniversary, honey!
This year Shawna and I will have been together for 11 years. I can hardly believe it and one of her first letters to me discussed how she wanted to buy appliances with me. HA! How romantic?
Well, I guess that's why I decided to get her for our anniversary a new top-of-the-line washing machine! Nothing says "Happy Anniversary" like an appliance, right?
We went back and forth as to what washing machine we wanted. It was between the Whirlpool and Maytag washing machines. The sales rep later told us that Whirlpool purchased Maytag and so they were the exact same machine.
Since we were able to get a better deal on the Whirlpool we went with that.
I wish we would have known about Krillion.com when looking for a washing machine. They have a great website that offers opinions and reviews on just about every appliance out there!
We should be good for a while considering that we have a new fridge, dryer, and washing machine. I'm not even going to venture to guess what could break now!
Well, I guess that's why I decided to get her for our anniversary a new top-of-the-line washing machine! Nothing says "Happy Anniversary" like an appliance, right?
We went back and forth as to what washing machine we wanted. It was between the Whirlpool and Maytag washing machines. The sales rep later told us that Whirlpool purchased Maytag and so they were the exact same machine.
Since we were able to get a better deal on the Whirlpool we went with that.
I wish we would have known about Krillion.com when looking for a washing machine. They have a great website that offers opinions and reviews on just about every appliance out there!
We should be good for a while considering that we have a new fridge, dryer, and washing machine. I'm not even going to venture to guess what could break now!
HOT.
Yesterday I was outside the whole day. I didn't have water to drink and I was so hungry and dehydrated. I know I should just get a water bottle and take it with me but I've been pretty lax about it in the past.
Plus, I didn't realize I was going to be walking all day long!
Good thing we went to Walmart over the weekend and purchased a big case of water. Now I just have to remember to put them in the fridge or freezer and take them with me when I am on the road!
Plus, I didn't realize I was going to be walking all day long!
Good thing we went to Walmart over the weekend and purchased a big case of water. Now I just have to remember to put them in the fridge or freezer and take them with me when I am on the road!
Ahhhhhhhhhh
Even though things have been hectic at work and I've literally been involved in so many projects and on the road over the past few days....I don't mind.
I feel like everything for the most part is manageable and I'm not losing my mind. Plus, it was nice not to have to go into work this weekend and just spend time with Graem and Shawna.
I had forgotten what it's like to actually have Graem wake up and see me in the morning!
I feel like everything for the most part is manageable and I'm not losing my mind. Plus, it was nice not to have to go into work this weekend and just spend time with Graem and Shawna.
I had forgotten what it's like to actually have Graem wake up and see me in the morning!
Always looking...
for good investments. Just a few weeks ago I noticed that 2 of my 10 stocks weren't doing so hot. In fact I almost died when I realized that I lost $2,000 in one day of a very bad stock market.
Now I'm looking to diversify my portfolio and invest in things that are more solid and have a positive history.
Gold bullion has always been a strong metal. Monex Deposit Company is one of the biggest and most trusted distributors of the precious metal. They have been around for years and have a great reputation in the field of precious metals.
This is just the thing I was looking for.
God knows, I can't take too many more of those days where I lose $2,000!
Now I'm looking to diversify my portfolio and invest in things that are more solid and have a positive history.
Gold bullion has always been a strong metal. Monex Deposit Company is one of the biggest and most trusted distributors of the precious metal. They have been around for years and have a great reputation in the field of precious metals.
This is just the thing I was looking for.
God knows, I can't take too many more of those days where I lose $2,000!
A new car?
Hardly!
Today I picked up the Toyota from the mechanics and it's driving like a new car again! We just purchased some new Yokohama tires and I'm so glad we did because the car was extremely unsafe on the tires that we had on it before.
Of course, now we just have to pay off the $500 that it cost for the tires and to have them put on.
Yikes...cars are expensive. It's costs like this that make riding the bus more and more appealing!
Today I picked up the Toyota from the mechanics and it's driving like a new car again! We just purchased some new Yokohama tires and I'm so glad we did because the car was extremely unsafe on the tires that we had on it before.
Of course, now we just have to pay off the $500 that it cost for the tires and to have them put on.
Yikes...cars are expensive. It's costs like this that make riding the bus more and more appealing!
Monday, June 25, 2007
So glad.
I had been debating for all weekend whether or not I was going to go to Graem's school strawberry picking and lunch today. I figured I had so much work that I wouldn't be able to make up the time and I knew the whole time I'd feel guilty about not being in the office.
This morning I went in and talked to the male partner of my firm that has kids and he was the one that sealed the deal that I should definitely go!
So, Shawna picked me up and we went berry picking with Graem's class. It was so much fun and really cute to see her interact with all of her classmates outside the school room!
After the berries we went for lunch at a nearby park and had a great time too!
Of course, it was hard when the girls dropped me off at the office because Graem was screaming and she didn't want to let me go.
This morning I went in and talked to the male partner of my firm that has kids and he was the one that sealed the deal that I should definitely go!
So, Shawna picked me up and we went berry picking with Graem's class. It was so much fun and really cute to see her interact with all of her classmates outside the school room!
After the berries we went for lunch at a nearby park and had a great time too!
Of course, it was hard when the girls dropped me off at the office because Graem was screaming and she didn't want to let me go.
Do you really want to know?
What your employees and employer think of you? Some people do and I'm sure there are those out there that really don't want to know!
I typically get a review once a year and every time my boss says great things and tends to not really give critical feedback. I know it's the critical feedback though that can help me become a better employee.
I wish she incorporated a 360 degree feedback program so that we could open the lines of communication a bit come yearly appraisal.
The reality is...not only is it my time to get feedback but it'd be a nice time to give feedback too.
It seems like aside from this one time each year we are always so busy and when annual reviews come around it's the 30 minutes or so that we take to discuss things.
Appraisal360.co.uk has a great program that will help employees and managers alike with their communication and work relationships.
I typically get a review once a year and every time my boss says great things and tends to not really give critical feedback. I know it's the critical feedback though that can help me become a better employee.
I wish she incorporated a 360 degree feedback program so that we could open the lines of communication a bit come yearly appraisal.
The reality is...not only is it my time to get feedback but it'd be a nice time to give feedback too.
It seems like aside from this one time each year we are always so busy and when annual reviews come around it's the 30 minutes or so that we take to discuss things.
Appraisal360.co.uk has a great program that will help employees and managers alike with their communication and work relationships.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
What a weekend!
This weekend we're pretty booked with tons of fun things to do!
This afternoon our Fertility Center is hosting a 10 year anniversary at the Syracuse Zoo! Grammy has never been to the zoo so we're pretty excited to take her. We've been talking about it all week and we think she's going to have a blast!
Tomorrow we're going to our friend Nicola's lakehouse on Seneca Lake. We haven't seen them in ages and look forward to seeing her, her family, and other friends.
It's good to be outside and hanging out with friends!
This afternoon our Fertility Center is hosting a 10 year anniversary at the Syracuse Zoo! Grammy has never been to the zoo so we're pretty excited to take her. We've been talking about it all week and we think she's going to have a blast!
Tomorrow we're going to our friend Nicola's lakehouse on Seneca Lake. We haven't seen them in ages and look forward to seeing her, her family, and other friends.
It's good to be outside and hanging out with friends!
Bailey.
I feel sorry for Bailey sometimes because before Graem was born she was the one and only baby in the house. She used to do everything with us and we used to take her outside to the dog park and on the road with us on a regular basis.
Now, it seems like she barks too much and makes things stinky!
We still love her and are glad that Graem loves her too.
We have always given her Premium dog food that we end up purchasing through the local feed store. The stuff costs an arm and a leg but we figure that's the least we can do for all of the years that she was our baby.
We're glad that Graem is being raised around animal and can appreciate the fun and joy that they give people!
Now, it seems like she barks too much and makes things stinky!
We still love her and are glad that Graem loves her too.
We have always given her Premium dog food that we end up purchasing through the local feed store. The stuff costs an arm and a leg but we figure that's the least we can do for all of the years that she was our baby.
We're glad that Graem is being raised around animal and can appreciate the fun and joy that they give people!
Thursday, June 21, 2007
HOLY CRAP
It is storming like crazy outside! I'm debating whether or not we should even be on the computers. We would be so screwed if we shorted out all of our computers. Even though I'm sure insurance would cover it...by the time we got new computers and the office up and running we'd be out weeks or so!
Maybe I'm just thinking of some great excuses why I should leave early and go home and take a nap!
Maybe I'm just thinking of some great excuses why I should leave early and go home and take a nap!
Cool!
I just got this awesome e-card from Graem and decided to make my own. Okay, so the architect in me might come out in some of the aspects!
Just take a look at the Build A Sandcastle that I was able to make!
I wonder what passerbys at the office must think I'm working on! Most of the time I have big CAD projects opened up on my computer and now I'm designing sandcastles.
I thought I could have done much better but I just don't have too much time to put into it right now! Of course, I can't wait to get home and do this fun sandcastle event with Grammy.
VirtualSandCastle.com is sponsored by Beaches Family Resorts. We looked at Beaches Family Resorts on our last vacation but they didn't have any in Cancun, Mexico.
We ended up staying in the Riu and although it would have been perfect if it were just Shawna and me going...it wasn't so great for having a 2 1/2 year old. They didn't have activities for the kids and when we tried to get a babysitter they never returned our calls!
We are going to have to choose a family friendly place to stay next time because it would have made our trip a little bit more enjoyable.
Not to mention, we might have been able to have a meal and conversation at the same time had we had babysitting options!
Just take a look at the Build A Sandcastle that I was able to make!
I wonder what passerbys at the office must think I'm working on! Most of the time I have big CAD projects opened up on my computer and now I'm designing sandcastles.
I thought I could have done much better but I just don't have too much time to put into it right now! Of course, I can't wait to get home and do this fun sandcastle event with Grammy.
VirtualSandCastle.com is sponsored by Beaches Family Resorts. We looked at Beaches Family Resorts on our last vacation but they didn't have any in Cancun, Mexico.
We ended up staying in the Riu and although it would have been perfect if it were just Shawna and me going...it wasn't so great for having a 2 1/2 year old. They didn't have activities for the kids and when we tried to get a babysitter they never returned our calls!
We are going to have to choose a family friendly place to stay next time because it would have made our trip a little bit more enjoyable.
Not to mention, we might have been able to have a meal and conversation at the same time had we had babysitting options!
From bad to worse!!!
Yesterday we were all pretty sick. Last night I was snoring so loud I got kicked out of bed! So I ended up sleeping with Grammy.
This morning we all woke up and felt pretty crappy. I don't even have a voice. I had to go into work to do this proposal that's due today.
It stinks being this sick and since there's noone else to cover for me I have to go into work anyway.
I wish I were still in bed. Ugh.
This morning we all woke up and felt pretty crappy. I don't even have a voice. I had to go into work to do this proposal that's due today.
It stinks being this sick and since there's noone else to cover for me I have to go into work anyway.
I wish I were still in bed. Ugh.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
I love Brits!
Not only are the accents the coolest but they really have the right idea on so many things including: gay marriage, healthcare, and MUSIC!!
Now there's a new website out where you can have access to unsigned chart with free music downloads!
Check out the latest press release:
tourdates.Co.UK, Britains fastest growing new music website, has launched a chart for unsigned bands.
The site allows new bands to upload promotional tracks, announce gig dates and create profiles to promote themselves alongside major artists such as the Artic Monkeys and The Twang.
Tourdates Jarrod Robinson says, there are some fantastic unsigned bands in the UK and we wanted them to know how much our community likes their music, an unsigned chart seemed the perfect answer.
Chart results are announced on the site at 19:00 every sunday, the sametime as the No1 single of the week is announced on BBC's radio 1.
This post sponsored by: Tourdates.co.uk
Now there's a new website out where you can have access to unsigned chart with free music downloads!
Check out the latest press release:
tourdates.Co.UK, Britains fastest growing new music website, has launched a chart for unsigned bands.
The site allows new bands to upload promotional tracks, announce gig dates and create profiles to promote themselves alongside major artists such as the Artic Monkeys and The Twang.
Tourdates Jarrod Robinson says, there are some fantastic unsigned bands in the UK and we wanted them to know how much our community likes their music, an unsigned chart seemed the perfect answer.
Chart results are announced on the site at 19:00 every sunday, the sametime as the No1 single of the week is announced on BBC's radio 1.
This post sponsored by: Tourdates.co.uk
Going to bed early.
I can tell you right now that no matter what happens tonight I'm going to be in bed by 9:00.
I'm really glad that we don't have any plans this evening because we're all starting to get sick and feel crappy. I think it could be either a cold or it might even be our allergies.
Last night I just couldn't bring myself to put Graem to bed because I was so exhausted. That's pretty bad because most of the time that's my time with her and typically I love going to bed with her.
I've just got to push myself for two more days. This weekend we're going to the zoo for an event sponsored by our Fertility Center. It should be great and I know Graem is going to love it!
I'm really glad that we don't have any plans this evening because we're all starting to get sick and feel crappy. I think it could be either a cold or it might even be our allergies.
Last night I just couldn't bring myself to put Graem to bed because I was so exhausted. That's pretty bad because most of the time that's my time with her and typically I love going to bed with her.
I've just got to push myself for two more days. This weekend we're going to the zoo for an event sponsored by our Fertility Center. It should be great and I know Graem is going to love it!
Our poor bedspread.
Having a baby, a dog, and two cats has been hell on all of the fabrics in our house! The last time I looked at our bedspread it was starting to tear.
We love the bedspread because it matches perfect with the decore in the bedroom. However, after having baby barf, pee, and milk spilled on it and being watched way too many times...the time has come.
We'd probably want to replace it with one of the beautiful quilted bedspreads offered at TerrysFabrics.co.uk.
They have one that looks exactly like the one that we have. Not to mention I was shocked that the price is about $40 less that what we paid for it in the store.
This post sponsored by: TerrysFabrics.co.uk
We love the bedspread because it matches perfect with the decore in the bedroom. However, after having baby barf, pee, and milk spilled on it and being watched way too many times...the time has come.
We'd probably want to replace it with one of the beautiful quilted bedspreads offered at TerrysFabrics.co.uk.
They have one that looks exactly like the one that we have. Not to mention I was shocked that the price is about $40 less that what we paid for it in the store.
This post sponsored by: TerrysFabrics.co.uk
Sick family.
I started having itchy throat and feeling crappy Monday. I figured it was because I turned in my drawings and was not able to crash physically. Then I noticed Tuesday that Graem started having a runny nose.
Last night, all of a sudden, Shawna comes down with a drippy throat and runny nose.
I was so exhausted that I asked her to put Graem to bed. She had her to bed by 10:30 and then she came upstairs. All of a sudden we hear a cry and it's Graem.
When I went downstairs she said "I'm scared!"
Of course, that was my key to bring her upstairs to bed with us!
Last night, all of a sudden, Shawna comes down with a drippy throat and runny nose.
I was so exhausted that I asked her to put Graem to bed. She had her to bed by 10:30 and then she came upstairs. All of a sudden we hear a cry and it's Graem.
When I went downstairs she said "I'm scared!"
Of course, that was my key to bring her upstairs to bed with us!
We need some help!
Over the past few years we've always had an eye for fashion. Since the baby was born we've given up on having a beautiful and stylish living room and we're just looking for more space with Graem's toys!
At some point we want to get new curtains and curtain poles for the living room. Right now the curtains are a off white and the poles are a dark brown.
TerrysFabrics.co.uk has a great selection of curtains and curtin rods for the entire house! The prices are a steal too!
This post sponsored by: TerrysFabrics.co.uk
At some point we want to get new curtains and curtain poles for the living room. Right now the curtains are a off white and the poles are a dark brown.
TerrysFabrics.co.uk has a great selection of curtains and curtin rods for the entire house! The prices are a steal too!
This post sponsored by: TerrysFabrics.co.uk
Monday, June 18, 2007
This evening...
when I got home Shawna had already prepared dinner. It was nice to walk in the door and have a nice meal waiting.
After we ate dinner went for ice cream and went to the playground. We had "family slide" where the three of us slid down the slide together. We also played hide and seek.
We had a great time and I wish Grammy could be two years old forever.
Of course I say that only when she's behaving and not acting like a holy terror!
After we ate dinner went for ice cream and went to the playground. We had "family slide" where the three of us slid down the slide together. We also played hide and seek.
We had a great time and I wish Grammy could be two years old forever.
Of course I say that only when she's behaving and not acting like a holy terror!
That would be me.
I'm really the person of all traits at work. I do my regular job as a landscape architect, IT director, buying agent, and asset management!
Right now we don't do inventory because our firm has always been small and for the most part we keep a pretty good eye on things. However, over the past few years we've almost doubled our working staff, rented a new office, and taken on some pretty big projects.
It would probably make sense to start Asset Tracking so that we have an idea of what we have and what we might need. Not to mention, if we itemize on our taxes we can take the deductions for depreciation.
NetSimplicity.com offers software that makes asset management easy. You will notice what you own and how much it's worth - instantly!
As the business gets bigger and bigger we have got to get a better handle on what we have and don't have!
This post sponsored by: NetSimplicity.com
Right now we don't do inventory because our firm has always been small and for the most part we keep a pretty good eye on things. However, over the past few years we've almost doubled our working staff, rented a new office, and taken on some pretty big projects.
It would probably make sense to start Asset Tracking so that we have an idea of what we have and what we might need. Not to mention, if we itemize on our taxes we can take the deductions for depreciation.
NetSimplicity.com offers software that makes asset management easy. You will notice what you own and how much it's worth - instantly!
As the business gets bigger and bigger we have got to get a better handle on what we have and don't have!
This post sponsored by: NetSimplicity.com
Here we go again.
I'm not even sure that I can believe that we're trying to get pregnant again. I mean I realize that it didn't work the last time. However, it seems like we've been at this whole thing for a long, long time.
Emotionally, I think we're both just ready for it to happen. I'm glad to see Shawna excited about starting up again. I'm also scared.
What if it does work and then we lose the baby again?
What if it works and there are more than two or three babies in there?
I remember last time when there were two sacs...we were beside ourselves with anxiety and scared. It's a lot different when you don't have any kids and are pregnant with two...but when you have one already...your family turns from 3 to 5.
Not to mention, I'm the breadwinner...which means I've got to find a way to make more bread!
Emotionally, I think we're both just ready for it to happen. I'm glad to see Shawna excited about starting up again. I'm also scared.
What if it does work and then we lose the baby again?
What if it works and there are more than two or three babies in there?
I remember last time when there were two sacs...we were beside ourselves with anxiety and scared. It's a lot different when you don't have any kids and are pregnant with two...but when you have one already...your family turns from 3 to 5.
Not to mention, I'm the breadwinner...which means I've got to find a way to make more bread!
If it were up to Shawna...
I have a feeling that we might be living somewhere much warmer and closer to where she grew up. She went to school close in Austin and we both really loved the people, atmosphere, and landscape. Not to mention the weather was pretty darn great too!
One thing that her friend was saying a few nights ago was that Austin Commercial Real Estate has totally boomed. So many new companies have started up and it's really overpriced and hard to find a good property.
DonCox.com specializes in commercial real estate in the Austin area. Their website is great and you can actually request a listing of the available commercial sites that meet your specifications on their website.
The great thing ... they'll have it to you within 24 hours.
Now that's commitment and customer service!
This post sponsored by: DonCox.com
One thing that her friend was saying a few nights ago was that Austin Commercial Real Estate has totally boomed. So many new companies have started up and it's really overpriced and hard to find a good property.
DonCox.com specializes in commercial real estate in the Austin area. Their website is great and you can actually request a listing of the available commercial sites that meet your specifications on their website.
The great thing ... they'll have it to you within 24 hours.
Now that's commitment and customer service!
This post sponsored by: DonCox.com
Just another day in paradise?
This morning I got into work pretty early and was able to nail out some drawings. Then we went to our morning meeting and I got a new project dropped in my lap.
I love it when I think I'm going to be alright and finally get somewhat caught up only to be dumped on.
When will it be Friday?
I guess I shouldn't be complaining considering that I only had to come in once over the weekend and I only worked four hours.
I love it when I think I'm going to be alright and finally get somewhat caught up only to be dumped on.
When will it be Friday?
I guess I shouldn't be complaining considering that I only had to come in once over the weekend and I only worked four hours.
Hot and wet!
That's what I'm going to be at 5:15! I'm meeting Shawna and Grammy up at the local swimming pool.
Last year we bought a pool pass for around $80. It was only for two people and so Shawna and Graem took the pass. When I went I just paid independantly.
This year we're not going to buy the pass. WE figured that they closed way too early last year. Not to mention, they just opened last weekend!
So we'd have to go approx. 13 times in order to get our money worth. With softball, trying to get pregnant, and Grammy's schooling I don't see that happening!
We also bought Grammy the kiddie pool in the backyard and I just have to clean out all of the dead bugs and junk in there and we're back in business.
Last year we bought a pool pass for around $80. It was only for two people and so Shawna and Graem took the pass. When I went I just paid independantly.
This year we're not going to buy the pass. WE figured that they closed way too early last year. Not to mention, they just opened last weekend!
So we'd have to go approx. 13 times in order to get our money worth. With softball, trying to get pregnant, and Grammy's schooling I don't see that happening!
We also bought Grammy the kiddie pool in the backyard and I just have to clean out all of the dead bugs and junk in there and we're back in business.
A best seller.
My life has been quite the novel. I would compare some of the screwed up childhood experience to the likes of Augusten Burroughs or David Sedaris.
In fact, just a few weeks ago I was telling a story about my childhood to one of my friends and she said I should write a book!
Maybe I should consider a Self Publish book. That way I could go unedited and really have it be my story.
AuthorHouse.com offers a great website that offers self publishing. They help you market and get the word out there about your work.
I like this idea because it's a website where you can do everything and work with a professional group of people who have published on a daily basis!
This post sponsored by: AuthorHouse.com
In fact, just a few weeks ago I was telling a story about my childhood to one of my friends and she said I should write a book!
Maybe I should consider a Self Publish book. That way I could go unedited and really have it be my story.
AuthorHouse.com offers a great website that offers self publishing. They help you market and get the word out there about your work.
I like this idea because it's a website where you can do everything and work with a professional group of people who have published on a daily basis!
This post sponsored by: AuthorHouse.com
What a productive weekend.
Starting Friday after work we made the most of our weekend! We went to eat at Just a Taste. Then we went to a play that the Montessori school put on. Graem was pretty good but only last 45 minutes. We got a few looks before we decided to call it a night and head home.
Saturday we hung around and waited for our new washing machine. While we were waiting we decided to go to the local horse show. Graem started throwing a Grand Maul fit and we ended up leaving after being there for 10 minutes. Augh. These terrible twos are HORRIBLE.
We then put her in her room kicking and screaming!
The washing machine is absolutely great and we love it dearly! I had to fix some leaking it was causing at the main pipe leading to the septic. I also had to fix the legs because it was uneven and causing the machine to become unbalanced.
Saturday night we had L&L over for dinner. We ate so much! The good thing is that we ate vegetables and chicken so it wasn't too unhealthY!
Saturday we hung around and waited for our new washing machine. While we were waiting we decided to go to the local horse show. Graem started throwing a Grand Maul fit and we ended up leaving after being there for 10 minutes. Augh. These terrible twos are HORRIBLE.
We then put her in her room kicking and screaming!
The washing machine is absolutely great and we love it dearly! I had to fix some leaking it was causing at the main pipe leading to the septic. I also had to fix the legs because it was uneven and causing the machine to become unbalanced.
Saturday night we had L&L over for dinner. We ate so much! The good thing is that we ate vegetables and chicken so it wasn't too unhealthY!
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Life insurance.
I found out the other day that my mother's insurance policy was in my father's name and so I've been helping him get it all together so that he can start collecting the money.
I also found out that because he took out a loan against the policy that part of the contract reads that it will be paid out over five years.
Ugh.
We should have gone through Globe Life. They don't require any type of medical exam and $1 buys $50,000 worth of coverage.
I also found out that because he took out a loan against the policy that part of the contract reads that it will be paid out over five years.
Ugh.
We should have gone through Globe Life. They don't require any type of medical exam and $1 buys $50,000 worth of coverage.
Risky business?
Recruiting has always been something that I think would be a pretty cool job. You'd be able to meet a lot of great people and build some great relationships.
A.E. Feldman Associates offers recruiting services for both people looking for jobs and employers. They aim to match skills with job openings.
They specialize in risk management and financial placement. It just makes sense to have the professionals in the industry recruit the most qualified candidates for a job opening.
The reality is if you're looking for a job there's no way to get your resume out to every company that might have a company. So the best option is to go through a recruiting firm so that they can help you find the perfect employer.
It's really a win-win situation!
A.E. Feldman Associates offers recruiting services for both people looking for jobs and employers. They aim to match skills with job openings.
They specialize in risk management and financial placement. It just makes sense to have the professionals in the industry recruit the most qualified candidates for a job opening.
The reality is if you're looking for a job there's no way to get your resume out to every company that might have a company. So the best option is to go through a recruiting firm so that they can help you find the perfect employer.
It's really a win-win situation!
Friday, June 15, 2007
Ro-cha-cha
I just returned from my work trip in Rochester. I'm really hoping that we get the project because I think it'd be really cool. Rochester is really a great little town and it seems like the people that live there are really trying to do a lot with the art and museum district.
It's jobs like this that have me really excited and remind me why I like doing what I'm doing.
Of course, we won't mention all of the developing parking lots and other *grrr* projects out there!
It's jobs like this that have me really excited and remind me why I like doing what I'm doing.
Of course, we won't mention all of the developing parking lots and other *grrr* projects out there!
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
My kind of camp!
Growing up I was never athletic. I'm thinking that Graem might have picked up that trait from me. Sorry kid.
She did pick up my intellect and smarts though! That's why we are going to consider Summer Camps when she turns four years old!
Score Learning Centers have been an industry leader in summer camps and tutoring for many years. They offer their services to kids 4-14 and know what they're doing!
This post sponsored by: Score Learning Centers
She did pick up my intellect and smarts though! That's why we are going to consider Summer Camps when she turns four years old!
Score Learning Centers have been an industry leader in summer camps and tutoring for many years. They offer their services to kids 4-14 and know what they're doing!
This post sponsored by: Score Learning Centers
Washing machine and dryer - DOWN.
Our washing machine has been dying for some time. For some reason every time we take out a load of laundry it smells like baby barf and mildew. I think it's because baby throwup chunks are in the drum and contaminating our clothing.
So we've been saying for a while that we're going to get a new washing machine.
This morning we realized that all of our clothing smells like royal hell. So we're going this afternoon despite my greatest efforts to put this off --- to get a new washing machine.
When it rains it pours ---
Shawna went downstairs this morning to change laundry and go figure -- the damn dryer is broken too! Thank God it had TWO DAYS of warranty left and because it's been repaired over 4 times for the same thing it's going to be replaced under Best Buys lemon policy.
I guess the good thing is - we get a new washer and dryer - the bad thing is -- we also get the monthly payments to boot.
Have I mentioned how we need new tires for the car too?
So we've been saying for a while that we're going to get a new washing machine.
This morning we realized that all of our clothing smells like royal hell. So we're going this afternoon despite my greatest efforts to put this off --- to get a new washing machine.
When it rains it pours ---
Shawna went downstairs this morning to change laundry and go figure -- the damn dryer is broken too! Thank God it had TWO DAYS of warranty left and because it's been repaired over 4 times for the same thing it's going to be replaced under Best Buys lemon policy.
I guess the good thing is - we get a new washer and dryer - the bad thing is -- we also get the monthly payments to boot.
Have I mentioned how we need new tires for the car too?
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
FREEZE: It's Reno 911 on the big screen!
Well not really the big screen. I mean it just depends on how big your television is!
Take a look at what's in store for you this summer on a DVD near you --- Reno 911! Miami The Movie.
Of course, now we just have to find a place that has this great video for rental. I'm sure it's going to be in most places -- but I want to be the first to watch it when it comes out June 19th, 2007!
It reminded me a lot of slapstick humor and of course I love the fact that it made fun of a very well established profession -- the police!
Now of course, I'm not even going to have to spend $9 per ticket to get that same humor on the big screen. I'm not one to typically go to the movie theatre for just anything and now I'm glad I don't have to!
Reno 911! Miami The Movie looks hilarious and I think I'll probably watch it within the first week of it's release!
Of course, I might have to talk Shawna into this one. I'm not really sure she appreciated the show as much as I did. Her humor is a little bit different than mine. Either way...if she won't watch the DVD...I'll watch it by myself.
Take a look at what's in store for you this summer on a DVD near you --- Reno 911! Miami The Movie.
Of course, now we just have to find a place that has this great video for rental. I'm sure it's going to be in most places -- but I want to be the first to watch it when it comes out June 19th, 2007!
It reminded me a lot of slapstick humor and of course I love the fact that it made fun of a very well established profession -- the police!
Now of course, I'm not even going to have to spend $9 per ticket to get that same humor on the big screen. I'm not one to typically go to the movie theatre for just anything and now I'm glad I don't have to!
Reno 911! Miami The Movie looks hilarious and I think I'll probably watch it within the first week of it's release!
Of course, I might have to talk Shawna into this one. I'm not really sure she appreciated the show as much as I did. Her humor is a little bit different than mine. Either way...if she won't watch the DVD...I'll watch it by myself.
Daycare.
We spend so much a month on daycare. I just don't know how other people are able to do it too. If we didn't get the scholarship it'd be close to $70 per day.
Thank God we're poor enough to qualify for a pretty reasonable scholarship! With that being said I know financially it's really hard on the daycare because after expenses and staff they don't make money.
We found out last week that our daycare lady that's been there for 15 years plus is just making a little over minimum wage.
I wish there was a better system out there.
Thank God we're poor enough to qualify for a pretty reasonable scholarship! With that being said I know financially it's really hard on the daycare because after expenses and staff they don't make money.
We found out last week that our daycare lady that's been there for 15 years plus is just making a little over minimum wage.
I wish there was a better system out there.
Lucky seven!
I've never been lucky. No matter how much I gamble, enter sweepstakes, or play the lottery -- I've never won a thing.
Even with PayPerPost I have been a blogger for close to eight months and I have yet to win one of the big money prizes or the HD television. Of course, that doesn't stop me! I've been known to stay up til all hours of the night trying!
Now the news is out and Pay Per Post has done it again --- They have raised SEVEN MILLION DOLLARS from investors! Now that's a lot of money, especially for a start-up company that just started less than a year ago.
PPP is all about sharing the love and once again they're doing it again!
Between noon today and noon tomorrow they are going to post $7,000 worth of opps. I can hardly wait! Not to mention, some opps will be $10.77, some will be $70, and then they will have a few $700 opps available. *swoon*
I think PPP has done an amazing job in the past. They continue to make advertisers, bloggers, and investors happy people.
They should continue to put their money into the business and maybe even purchase a marketing company that would help advertisers with web optimization. Blog outreach seems to be where the future is these days and so many new companies need that extra marketing boost!
Just check out the press release:
The PayPerPost Revolution Accelerates, Sponsored
Blogging Marketplace Secures $7 Million Series B
Draper Fisher Jurvetson leads round and joins Board of Directors
ORLANDO, FL – (June 12, 2007) – PayPerPost, the leading marketplace for advertisers to reach bloggers and other consumer content creators, today announced it has completed a $7 million second round investment led by Draper Fisher Jurvetson, an investor in the company's Series A and one of the world’s leading high-technology venture capital firms. The financing brings the total amount of capital raised by PayPerPost to over $10 million, giving the company considerable resources for further development as the industry’s leading Consumer Generated Advertising marketplace. Additional participants in the round include existing investors Inflexion Partners and Village Ventures as well as new investor DFJ Gotham. With this investment, DFJ Managing Director Josh Stein also joins PayPerPost’s Board of Directors.
“PayPerPost created this exciting new advertising space and has established itself as the industry leader,” said Ted Murphy, chief executive officer of PayPerPost. “Although we’ve only used a portion of our first round capital, this added support from investors unlocks significant growth potential. Our content creator and advertiser ROI metrics clearly demonstrate the upside for PayPerPost’s model. We intend to use this capital to build the infrastructure, visibility and professional expertise necessary to reach and retain a greater network of advertisers and content creators than ever before.”
Since its founding in June of 2006, PayPerPost has signed more than 6,500 advertisers to its groundbreaking service, which has enabled Consumer Content Creators to be compensated for their efforts discussing specific companies, products or services via blogs, videos or other media. The content creators are required to disclose relationships with advertisers on their blog, providing transparency for the end reader. Over 125,000 Internet postings, most in the form of blogs, have already earned money for their creators through PayPerPost’s innovative marketplace. PayPerPost recently released PayPerPost Direct, a disruptive new service that allows advertisers to contract and negotiate directly with individual bloggers they identify through a safe, managed system.
“PayPerPost has laid a strong foundation for the future,” noted Tim Draper, founder and managing director of Draper Fisher Jurvetson. “It continues to attract a critical mass of participants from both the advertising and blogging communities. Analogous to Overture’s sponsored search model, we believe PayPerPost’s business model holds disruptive potential and will enable the company to thrive in the evolving paid-content arena.”
To mark the $7 million dollar funding, PayPerPost has launched a new website detailing the company’s service offering at http://www.payperpost.com. Bloggers and advertisers can easily sign up at the site and begin leveraging the self service marketplace.
Even with PayPerPost I have been a blogger for close to eight months and I have yet to win one of the big money prizes or the HD television. Of course, that doesn't stop me! I've been known to stay up til all hours of the night trying!
Now the news is out and Pay Per Post has done it again --- They have raised SEVEN MILLION DOLLARS from investors! Now that's a lot of money, especially for a start-up company that just started less than a year ago.
PPP is all about sharing the love and once again they're doing it again!
Between noon today and noon tomorrow they are going to post $7,000 worth of opps. I can hardly wait! Not to mention, some opps will be $10.77, some will be $70, and then they will have a few $700 opps available. *swoon*
I think PPP has done an amazing job in the past. They continue to make advertisers, bloggers, and investors happy people.
They should continue to put their money into the business and maybe even purchase a marketing company that would help advertisers with web optimization. Blog outreach seems to be where the future is these days and so many new companies need that extra marketing boost!
Just check out the press release:
The PayPerPost Revolution Accelerates, Sponsored
Blogging Marketplace Secures $7 Million Series B
Draper Fisher Jurvetson leads round and joins Board of Directors
ORLANDO, FL – (June 12, 2007) – PayPerPost, the leading marketplace for advertisers to reach bloggers and other consumer content creators, today announced it has completed a $7 million second round investment led by Draper Fisher Jurvetson, an investor in the company's Series A and one of the world’s leading high-technology venture capital firms. The financing brings the total amount of capital raised by PayPerPost to over $10 million, giving the company considerable resources for further development as the industry’s leading Consumer Generated Advertising marketplace. Additional participants in the round include existing investors Inflexion Partners and Village Ventures as well as new investor DFJ Gotham. With this investment, DFJ Managing Director Josh Stein also joins PayPerPost’s Board of Directors.
“PayPerPost created this exciting new advertising space and has established itself as the industry leader,” said Ted Murphy, chief executive officer of PayPerPost. “Although we’ve only used a portion of our first round capital, this added support from investors unlocks significant growth potential. Our content creator and advertiser ROI metrics clearly demonstrate the upside for PayPerPost’s model. We intend to use this capital to build the infrastructure, visibility and professional expertise necessary to reach and retain a greater network of advertisers and content creators than ever before.”
Since its founding in June of 2006, PayPerPost has signed more than 6,500 advertisers to its groundbreaking service, which has enabled Consumer Content Creators to be compensated for their efforts discussing specific companies, products or services via blogs, videos or other media. The content creators are required to disclose relationships with advertisers on their blog, providing transparency for the end reader. Over 125,000 Internet postings, most in the form of blogs, have already earned money for their creators through PayPerPost’s innovative marketplace. PayPerPost recently released PayPerPost Direct, a disruptive new service that allows advertisers to contract and negotiate directly with individual bloggers they identify through a safe, managed system.
“PayPerPost has laid a strong foundation for the future,” noted Tim Draper, founder and managing director of Draper Fisher Jurvetson. “It continues to attract a critical mass of participants from both the advertising and blogging communities. Analogous to Overture’s sponsored search model, we believe PayPerPost’s business model holds disruptive potential and will enable the company to thrive in the evolving paid-content arena.”
To mark the $7 million dollar funding, PayPerPost has launched a new website detailing the company’s service offering at http://www.payperpost.com. Bloggers and advertisers can easily sign up at the site and begin leveraging the self service marketplace.
After the storm...
Work yesterday was absolute misery. I hate fighting with people and for the most part I'm pretty non-confrontational. So it was hard sticking up for myself when my boss railed into me.
She later apologized and I apologized too for raising my voice.
Of course, that wasn't the end to a horrible day. Oh no...it has to get better.
I get home and Shawna and me get in a pretty big blowout. I get upset because she's mowing the grass way too low. Then of course it snowballs and turns into a nasty arguement.
Good thing I have Graem's bed to sleep in for the night!
She later apologized and I apologized too for raising my voice.
Of course, that wasn't the end to a horrible day. Oh no...it has to get better.
I get home and Shawna and me get in a pretty big blowout. I get upset because she's mowing the grass way too low. Then of course it snowballs and turns into a nasty arguement.
Good thing I have Graem's bed to sleep in for the night!
Monday, June 11, 2007
I've got to have this.
I'm talking about the meade My sky! It's has a full color LCD screen and it offers a personal video planetarium! It's similar to the celestron skyscout.
How cool is that?
This would have been a dream come true when I was a kid! We used to have a pretty nice telescope but nothing as cool as this.
This might be a great family gift for this holiday season. I would say we should get it for Grammy but I can only imagine it'd be minutes before I snatch it from her!
The MySky is easy to use and has menu that makes navigating a piece of cake.
This has already been added to my wish list! OpticsPlanet.net always has cool gadgets. In fact, while I'm working on my Christmas wish list I'm also going to add a nice flashlight and Meade binoculars too!
This post sponsored by: OpticsPlanet.net
How cool is that?
This would have been a dream come true when I was a kid! We used to have a pretty nice telescope but nothing as cool as this.
This might be a great family gift for this holiday season. I would say we should get it for Grammy but I can only imagine it'd be minutes before I snatch it from her!
The MySky is easy to use and has menu that makes navigating a piece of cake.
This has already been added to my wish list! OpticsPlanet.net always has cool gadgets. In fact, while I'm working on my Christmas wish list I'm also going to add a nice flashlight and Meade binoculars too!
This post sponsored by: OpticsPlanet.net
Ugh.
So today I had a total meltdown. Every Monday we have a meeting and we go around the room and make announcments and also people say when they're going to be on vacation etc.
After the meeting I approached my boss and told her that I had the family reunion that is scheduled in August.
She just about shit a brick. I've never seen her so mad and then she started yelling at me about how busy we are and how much time I've taken etc.
Of course, I've only taken one week for vacation and then one week because my mother died and I had to travel to the Phillippines. Maybe next time I just won't go to a parent's funeral?
I told her that I was going to just take the time unpaid. I also asked about bereavement pay. I think it's ridiculous that she's contemplating this. This has been going on for over a month now.
When Shawna was Executive Director they used to give their caregivers who had only been working there for 2 days three days bereavement time.
I just can't understand how she can literally be so cold that she wouldn't consider paying at least 2 days off!
Unbelievable.
After the meeting I approached my boss and told her that I had the family reunion that is scheduled in August.
She just about shit a brick. I've never seen her so mad and then she started yelling at me about how busy we are and how much time I've taken etc.
Of course, I've only taken one week for vacation and then one week because my mother died and I had to travel to the Phillippines. Maybe next time I just won't go to a parent's funeral?
I told her that I was going to just take the time unpaid. I also asked about bereavement pay. I think it's ridiculous that she's contemplating this. This has been going on for over a month now.
When Shawna was Executive Director they used to give their caregivers who had only been working there for 2 days three days bereavement time.
I just can't understand how she can literally be so cold that she wouldn't consider paying at least 2 days off!
Unbelievable.
Another vacation?
Okay, so I'm not really ready for another vacation --- nor is my boss. But I'm going to dream about it anyway!
I can't wait til Graem gets old enough for us to head to Orlando, Florida. In fact, just a few weeks ago we were talking about how much fun we had when Shawna and I went with my Uncle and Aunt.
I'm sure she's going to love seeing Mickey and Minnie Mouse. Last time we went we enjoyed Universal Studios. It seems more geared for the adults. I didn't realize how much Universal Studios Tickets were until I saw a commercial online!
We came across a great website OrlandoFunTickets.com. They offer Cheap Universal Studios Tickets and just about every type of entertainment discount offered in Florida.
Last time we went we enjoyed Gatorland --- I think Graem might be too scared of the alligators to enjoy that!!
I can't wait til Graem gets old enough for us to head to Orlando, Florida. In fact, just a few weeks ago we were talking about how much fun we had when Shawna and I went with my Uncle and Aunt.
I'm sure she's going to love seeing Mickey and Minnie Mouse. Last time we went we enjoyed Universal Studios. It seems more geared for the adults. I didn't realize how much Universal Studios Tickets were until I saw a commercial online!
We came across a great website OrlandoFunTickets.com. They offer Cheap Universal Studios Tickets and just about every type of entertainment discount offered in Florida.
Last time we went we enjoyed Gatorland --- I think Graem might be too scared of the alligators to enjoy that!!
Shopping discounts.
We buy almost everything online. Lately, we've been looking to purchase a new washing machine and the first place we checked out was Lowe's, Sears, and Home Depot's websites!
What in the world did we ever do before the internet?
I'm guessing we got off the couch and went from store to store!
Before we make a purchase online we always look for online shopping coupons. We've been able to save some big money by using codes.
One of our favorite websites for great coupons is CouponChief.com.
In fact, I just looked at their Home Depot coupons and they're offering up to $250 gift card with the purchase of energy star appliances!
You can't go wrong with an offer like that!
This post sponsored by: CouponChief.com
What in the world did we ever do before the internet?
I'm guessing we got off the couch and went from store to store!
Before we make a purchase online we always look for online shopping coupons. We've been able to save some big money by using codes.
One of our favorite websites for great coupons is CouponChief.com.
In fact, I just looked at their Home Depot coupons and they're offering up to $250 gift card with the purchase of energy star appliances!
You can't go wrong with an offer like that!
This post sponsored by: CouponChief.com
Monday.
I'm not regretful about coming into work Sunday. I'm not regrestful about coming into work Sunday.
Of course, I feel like I just have to keep telling myself that. Isn't it horrible that for the first day in over twenty days I didn't go into work and I feel guilty?
We had a great weekend and I'm glad we were able to spend a lot of time outside and have a good time.
Yesterday we went to the park and Graem played on the swings, we had a picnic, and fed the ducks. Later that afternoon Shawna went for a golf game with our friend Jill and Grammy and me hung out and read.
We were all pretty exhausted last night and I'm finding myself sleeping in Graems room through the night. At some point I know I'm going to have to move upstairs permanently but I just can't give up being with Grammy.
I know she's getting bigger and it's the most I can do to hold onto her being a little girl.
Of course, I feel like I just have to keep telling myself that. Isn't it horrible that for the first day in over twenty days I didn't go into work and I feel guilty?
We had a great weekend and I'm glad we were able to spend a lot of time outside and have a good time.
Yesterday we went to the park and Graem played on the swings, we had a picnic, and fed the ducks. Later that afternoon Shawna went for a golf game with our friend Jill and Grammy and me hung out and read.
We were all pretty exhausted last night and I'm finding myself sleeping in Graems room through the night. At some point I know I'm going to have to move upstairs permanently but I just can't give up being with Grammy.
I know she's getting bigger and it's the most I can do to hold onto her being a little girl.
I'll never see her again!
Shawna is always online and playing Speed online. Supposedly, there are all of these games on her high school alumni website and she spends hours trying to beat the high scores!
I better not even think about telling her of the new game place where she can win some great prizes! I might never see her again if she finds out!
whogets.com is offering free membership with contests and sweepstakes. The prizes range from $10 to $600!
Maybe this is what I need to relieve some of the stress in my life!
This post sponsored by: WhoGets.com
I better not even think about telling her of the new game place where she can win some great prizes! I might never see her again if she finds out!
whogets.com is offering free membership with contests and sweepstakes. The prizes range from $10 to $600!
Maybe this is what I need to relieve some of the stress in my life!
This post sponsored by: WhoGets.com
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Have I mentioned?
How much I friggin' hate Dell and Vista? I must have?
The new computer is nearly impossible to get up and running and I've spent tons of time doing so. I constantly get error messages and I can't find a way to get off the unneccessary crap that's on the desktop.
When I called Dell this morning they wouldn't even tell me how to get Vista off and XP on.
I don't understand how they can sell these computers and then have them outfitted with Vista. I'm really surprised that they haven't taken Vista off of the market because there are so many dissatisfied customers.
Microsoft should be ashamed of themselves!
The new computer is nearly impossible to get up and running and I've spent tons of time doing so. I constantly get error messages and I can't find a way to get off the unneccessary crap that's on the desktop.
When I called Dell this morning they wouldn't even tell me how to get Vista off and XP on.
I don't understand how they can sell these computers and then have them outfitted with Vista. I'm really surprised that they haven't taken Vista off of the market because there are so many dissatisfied customers.
Microsoft should be ashamed of themselves!
Saturday, June 09, 2007
She's brilliant.
I'm talking about my daughter, Graem. She's two and a half and she knows her ABC's and her numbers up to twenty. I attribute it to her having good genes (of course) and Shawna staying home with her and working daily to teach her the basics.
I wish we had a Score Learning Center around us that would offer Math Tutors. Score Learning Centers are offered throughout the United States and I've heard they do an amazing job at teaching and tutoring kids.
I also really like the fact that they are part of the Kaplan family. Kaplan is notorious for presenting a great product and education and I'm sure the Score Learning Centers are no different.
This post sponsored by: Score Learning Centers
I wish we had a Score Learning Center around us that would offer Math Tutors. Score Learning Centers are offered throughout the United States and I've heard they do an amazing job at teaching and tutoring kids.
I also really like the fact that they are part of the Kaplan family. Kaplan is notorious for presenting a great product and education and I'm sure the Score Learning Centers are no different.
This post sponsored by: Score Learning Centers
The shower.
Today I hosted L&L's baby shower along with Jen and Elizabeth. We had a really great time and the shower went off a lot better than I thought it was going to. L&L got some much needed baby gear and I was glad I was able to be part of it.
Shawna did not go to the shower and we had talked about it months before. She's still working on getting over the miscarriage and it's just going to take time. I know it's not that she's *not* happy for them...it's just that she feels that we should be pregnant too.
Lately, I am starting to realize all of the pregnant people out there. I also realize every baby that we come across. I'm starting to realize how she must be feeling all of these years wanting a baby so bad and being surrounded by babies and pregnant women.
I know the day will come when it will be our turn...
Shawna did not go to the shower and we had talked about it months before. She's still working on getting over the miscarriage and it's just going to take time. I know it's not that she's *not* happy for them...it's just that she feels that we should be pregnant too.
Lately, I am starting to realize all of the pregnant people out there. I also realize every baby that we come across. I'm starting to realize how she must be feeling all of these years wanting a baby so bad and being surrounded by babies and pregnant women.
I know the day will come when it will be our turn...
Dumb computer or dumb me?
Our old (3 months old) laptop is driving me absolutely crazy. When we first received it from Dell it instantly showed up with tons of error messages. I've heard horror stories of Vista and so I've been cursing out Microsoft for the past few weeks.
However, as I look into the situation more I think that SpyWare might have infected the computer. It's constantly shutting down without notice and when you look in the history you see error after error.
Not to mention, sometimes out of nowhere it will open twenty Windows Explorer windows at a time!
We just had a new computer mailed out to us from Dell and I'm in the process of getting it up and running. I'm going to invest in Spy Sweeper software. The money spent is well worth losing precious information, not to mention, the frustration and cursing that is often involved.
SPY SWEEPER IS THE MOST AWARD-WINNING ANTISPYWARE SOFTWARE! SpySweeper is the most viable and affordable way to kill spyware. If you've ever been infected or lost a computer and useful information you will realize the importance of getting something done before it is too late.
It's easy to use and was designed to protect your computer from dangerous spyware that can take over and render your computer helpless!
However, as I look into the situation more I think that SpyWare might have infected the computer. It's constantly shutting down without notice and when you look in the history you see error after error.
Not to mention, sometimes out of nowhere it will open twenty Windows Explorer windows at a time!
We just had a new computer mailed out to us from Dell and I'm in the process of getting it up and running. I'm going to invest in Spy Sweeper software. The money spent is well worth losing precious information, not to mention, the frustration and cursing that is often involved.
SPY SWEEPER IS THE MOST AWARD-WINNING ANTISPYWARE SOFTWARE! SpySweeper is the most viable and affordable way to kill spyware. If you've ever been infected or lost a computer and useful information you will realize the importance of getting something done before it is too late.
It's easy to use and was designed to protect your computer from dangerous spyware that can take over and render your computer helpless!
Light at the end of the tunnel?
Well, I got the call Friday that our deadline had been extended because they were going to make changes. Of course, this should be good news...but I'm not so sure. I figure since it's on their calendar and they are the ones making the changes that I should be able to work at a normal schedule.
I went in this morning for a few hours and worked. I have someone else working this weekend on the project and I want to make sure that there is work there for him and he's staying on track.
With my work it's one thing to get caught up in the details and if you're off on the idea -- then the whole project goes to hell and you end up wasting way too much time correcting.
It's better to get it right the first time, provide the extra oversight and know that the job is getting done right!
I went in this morning for a few hours and worked. I have someone else working this weekend on the project and I want to make sure that there is work there for him and he's staying on track.
With my work it's one thing to get caught up in the details and if you're off on the idea -- then the whole project goes to hell and you end up wasting way too much time correcting.
It's better to get it right the first time, provide the extra oversight and know that the job is getting done right!
Our work phones
I'm always at ends with our work phones and I can't tell if our secretary just doesn't know how to use them or they offer horrible service! Many times when she goes to transfer a call the person will be disconnected. Sometimes she'll be mid sentence telling you who is on the phone and it will cut off!
Since we're a pretty small business at some point it might make sense to look towards the direction of VOIP Small Business phone systems. With the VOIP systems you can really get great service, amazing rates by the minute, and clear and precise reception.
Of course, I just want to be able to get my calls without being cut off or disturbed.
That's not asking too much is it?
Since we're a pretty small business at some point it might make sense to look towards the direction of VOIP Small Business phone systems. With the VOIP systems you can really get great service, amazing rates by the minute, and clear and precise reception.
Of course, I just want to be able to get my calls without being cut off or disturbed.
That's not asking too much is it?
Mickey and Minnie!
I have a feeling that Grammy is going to be ready to go to Disney in a few years! We have tried not to raise her around too much commercialized material but somehow she knows Mickey and Minnie!
I have friends that own a time share in Orlando and it's perfect because even if they don't want to go to Orlando and use their timeshare there is always someone who does and so they are able to exchange easily.
The way to go though is to get a Disney vacation home! Not only can you enjoy the luxuries of having plenty of space but in that Florida heat a private pool will do just the trick!
I have friends that own a time share in Orlando and it's perfect because even if they don't want to go to Orlando and use their timeshare there is always someone who does and so they are able to exchange easily.
The way to go though is to get a Disney vacation home! Not only can you enjoy the luxuries of having plenty of space but in that Florida heat a private pool will do just the trick!
Thursday, June 07, 2007
When we were young
we used to have motorcycles. Not the cool motorcycles that you see biker babes riding. Oh no. We had these motorcycles that were from the 70's and half of the time we'd be waiting at a stop sign and the bike would just die on us!
We loved riding the bikes on a nice, sunny, weekend. It was great when we were students because we could just ride right up to our class and park right outside of the door!
Of course, we were never cool enough to actually get motorcycle sunglasses! We never did any fun road trips and kept most of our trips to a bare minimum.
Maybe it was for the best considering that we weren't the best of drivers!
We loved riding the bikes on a nice, sunny, weekend. It was great when we were students because we could just ride right up to our class and park right outside of the door!
Of course, we were never cool enough to actually get motorcycle sunglasses! We never did any fun road trips and kept most of our trips to a bare minimum.
Maybe it was for the best considering that we weren't the best of drivers!
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Living in Boston ...
I was just talking about relocating and Boston came up. Hmm...
Real Estate in Boston is constantly in high demand. In fact, I have friends that were looking for a house for over a year and they had quite a bit of money to spend on the perfect house.
They ended up purchasing a house in burbs of Boston for a mere 1.2 million dollars!
If you're ever looking for South Boston real estate then Seaport Reality Group is the perfect match for you! They have many agents that have practiced for years and really know how to get you the house in your dreams.
The also have a great website that's easy to navigate and you can even search open houses and MLS listings.
Real Estate in Boston is constantly in high demand. In fact, I have friends that were looking for a house for over a year and they had quite a bit of money to spend on the perfect house.
They ended up purchasing a house in burbs of Boston for a mere 1.2 million dollars!
If you're ever looking for South Boston real estate then Seaport Reality Group is the perfect match for you! They have many agents that have practiced for years and really know how to get you the house in your dreams.
The also have a great website that's easy to navigate and you can even search open houses and MLS listings.
This damn upstate weather.
I really can't figure out what's going on with this weather. I'm looking out my window now and on one side I see a rain cloud and the other half of the window shows beautiful blue skys with the sun shining through.
Where in the hell is summer?? It's like 55 degrees outside!
If it doesn't get better than this I'm moving.
This time I mean it.
I'm not just threatening!
Where in the hell is summer?? It's like 55 degrees outside!
If it doesn't get better than this I'm moving.
This time I mean it.
I'm not just threatening!
Looks like we're going forward.
I just got the news that we're going to go ahead and try to get the IVF going this month. *gulp*
I figured we at least had a month or so to get ready emotionally and stuff. Nupe. Shawna was able to get them to make a flare protocol that will have her ready to go (period pending) by June 25h.
Now we just have to hope and pray that her body does what it's suppose to do.
I figured we at least had a month or so to get ready emotionally and stuff. Nupe. Shawna was able to get them to make a flare protocol that will have her ready to go (period pending) by June 25h.
Now we just have to hope and pray that her body does what it's suppose to do.
What could have been?
I'm a big fan of simulations! I love the sims and when I was in economics class we did a stock trading simulation that was really cool.
Now you can actually do Historical Option Data online! PowerOpt.com allows you to do an online simulation and test how they have done in past times.
The whole idea is that you might be able to see both positive and negative trends and this would influence the way that you purchase the investments.
PowerOpt.com offers an easy to use website that helps you analyze, manage, and make money with trade options. Right now they are offering a 14 day free trial period to test their services out. If you like them - keep them!
Now you can actually do Historical Option Data online! PowerOpt.com allows you to do an online simulation and test how they have done in past times.
The whole idea is that you might be able to see both positive and negative trends and this would influence the way that you purchase the investments.
PowerOpt.com offers an easy to use website that helps you analyze, manage, and make money with trade options. Right now they are offering a 14 day free trial period to test their services out. If you like them - keep them!
Family reunion.
Our family reunion is just around the corner and I am excited to see my family. However, there's always a sense that they are really critical of me because I'm not a doctor or I don't make tons of money like they do.
My cousins are either dentists or doctors. They live in huge houses and drive fancy cars. I'm sure we'll drive up in our 7 year old Honda and they'll really think we live in the poor house!
I know it shouldn't matter how much someone makes ... but when I get with my family I feel somewhat inadequate. I always said that "at least I don't have to work those hours and be away from my family..."
But the reality is lately...I have been working those crazy hours and I have been away from my family.
My cousins are either dentists or doctors. They live in huge houses and drive fancy cars. I'm sure we'll drive up in our 7 year old Honda and they'll really think we live in the poor house!
I know it shouldn't matter how much someone makes ... but when I get with my family I feel somewhat inadequate. I always said that "at least I don't have to work those hours and be away from my family..."
But the reality is lately...I have been working those crazy hours and I have been away from my family.
Grocery shopping.
We have absolutely no food in our house. At one point I would have been gravely concerned and embarassed about this. But these days I'm just glad to find enough food to put out a decent dinner. It's really like the Iron Chef. You get a certain about of ingrediants and then you have to prepare a meal!
To bad I don't get all of the fame like the famous chefs...nor do I get the extravagent ingredients like monkfish or shark fins.
Isn't there some type of union that I can join?
To bad I don't get all of the fame like the famous chefs...nor do I get the extravagent ingredients like monkfish or shark fins.
Isn't there some type of union that I can join?
Let's go to Maui!
I'm ready to go on vacation already! I want to stay in a Maui condo for a few weeks and not be bothered!
I think this vacation (the one in my dreams) I would not have a screaming toddler and instead I'd bring Margot along with me!
GebhartProperties.com has some great residental, commercial, and rental properties available through their website.
Maybe we should just cut to the chase and actually purchase a nice condo on the beach - far, far away. But close to a grocery store and shopping mall!
I've never been one to turn down shopping - even if I am in Hawaii!
I think this vacation (the one in my dreams) I would not have a screaming toddler and instead I'd bring Margot along with me!
GebhartProperties.com has some great residental, commercial, and rental properties available through their website.
Maybe we should just cut to the chase and actually purchase a nice condo on the beach - far, far away. But close to a grocery store and shopping mall!
I've never been one to turn down shopping - even if I am in Hawaii!
I'm better than this.
I feel like everything has been kicking me in the ass lately. No matter what I do there's no way that I can keep up with work. Not to mention, I just don't have the energy to be a good mom.
In an ideal world I'd tell my boss that I need to work less and be home with my family but the reality is...I love what I do and we really need the money.
I'm nervous about taking out the $20,000 loan for yet another infertility treatment. That's a load of money and when I think of it it gives me an ulcer. Some people work all year for that type of money.
Even for us...we don't have a huge savings and we're pretty moderate people.
I wouldn't trade having Shawna home with the baby for the world...but financially it's been it's obstacle.
I guess the best thing we can do is just enjoy our time together and pray that after this deadline Monday I'll have more time to be home with the family.
Here's hoping that we just have to do one more infertility treatment and Shawna will get pregnant.
In an ideal world I'd tell my boss that I need to work less and be home with my family but the reality is...I love what I do and we really need the money.
I'm nervous about taking out the $20,000 loan for yet another infertility treatment. That's a load of money and when I think of it it gives me an ulcer. Some people work all year for that type of money.
Even for us...we don't have a huge savings and we're pretty moderate people.
I wouldn't trade having Shawna home with the baby for the world...but financially it's been it's obstacle.
I guess the best thing we can do is just enjoy our time together and pray that after this deadline Monday I'll have more time to be home with the family.
Here's hoping that we just have to do one more infertility treatment and Shawna will get pregnant.
Lunch.
Well, it looks like I'll be meeting Shawna for lunch at the Chinese Buffet. She's busy today with blogging and I'm trying to finish up this killer deadline. I figure I have to eat anyway and it's probably for the best that I leave the office.
At least it feels like I'm not a slave to the desk!
At least it feels like I'm not a slave to the desk!
Education in the summer?
When I was a kid we used to always go to a Summer Program. Since we weren't the most athletic kids on the block the programs would be geared towards academics.
Score Learning Centers offer some great programs for kids ages 4-14. I just wish that we had one of the centers locally.
I'd love to put Graem in there so that she could get a headstart on Kindergarten!
This post sponsored by: Score Learning Centers
Score Learning Centers offer some great programs for kids ages 4-14. I just wish that we had one of the centers locally.
I'd love to put Graem in there so that she could get a headstart on Kindergarten!
This post sponsored by: Score Learning Centers
This weekend...
looks like it's going to be a doozy. I know I just have to push myself to finish up...but I'm seriously exhausted. I feel like I might have to take off a few days just to rest up and get back to normal.
Of course, I don't know if I'll have a wife and daughter after this week either...
Of course, I don't know if I'll have a wife and daughter after this week either...
Ghosts aren't for real! Maybe.
Growing up I never believed in ghosts or any type of weird supernatural power. We were left at home all of the time and I never had anything out of the ordinary happen.
Even though we lived in a house where someone tried to kill themselves I'm sure we would have been prime candidates for having a nice ghost or someone looking over us.
I've always been somewhat scared of thriller movies and after I watch one I just can't go to sleep. So maybe having a ghost or hearing someone would have been the one thing that might have put me over the edge.
Yesterday I watched the trailer for 1408 Movie and I could barely sleep last night because it's that darn scary! Stephen King is notorious for producing and writing stories that are gripping and scare the crap out of you... and this time he's done it again!
The movie stars some of my favorite actors John Cusack and Samuel Jackson as you've never seen them before.
Take a look at a preview of 1408 Movie:
Now tell me that isn't about the scariest thing that you've seen. Don't lie to me when you have to sleep with all of the lights on!
Even though we lived in a house where someone tried to kill themselves I'm sure we would have been prime candidates for having a nice ghost or someone looking over us.
I've always been somewhat scared of thriller movies and after I watch one I just can't go to sleep. So maybe having a ghost or hearing someone would have been the one thing that might have put me over the edge.
Yesterday I watched the trailer for 1408 Movie and I could barely sleep last night because it's that darn scary! Stephen King is notorious for producing and writing stories that are gripping and scare the crap out of you... and this time he's done it again!
The movie stars some of my favorite actors John Cusack and Samuel Jackson as you've never seen them before.
Take a look at a preview of 1408 Movie:
Now tell me that isn't about the scariest thing that you've seen. Don't lie to me when you have to sleep with all of the lights on!
A little sleep...
goes a long way. This morning I actually woke up at a decent hour and got into work at a decent hour too. I know I just have to make it til Monday but I'm so damn exhausted. Not to mention, it feels like Monday is so far away.
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Eugene.
A few years ago we were hanging out at our friends Diane and Niki. They had lived in their house for a few years at the time. We started talking about something and the story of ghosts came up. They said very matter-of-factly "yeah, we have a ghost, Eugene."
Shawna and I looked at each other and instantly our eyes popped out of our head.
Here are two level headed, very down to earth people who are saying they have a ghost in their house.
Supposedly this ghost used to lock them out of the house, shut the door, kick balls, and make noises in their house. They like to tell him to stop and knock it off and he does!
One time he locked them out of the house - they told him to open the door and he did.
We were scared stiff and to say the least the last time they had a party we made sure to stick together and not be left alone in the house!
Now there's a new movie out by Stephen King called 1408 Movie which sounds just about as spooky as Eugene. The whole premise is that a father loses his daughter in a tragic accident and faces his own ghosts and immortality in a hotel room.
It looks very scary and exciting and I'm not even sure that I'd be able to sit through the whole movie without being scared out of my wits!
Just check out the trailer for 1408 Movie:
I warned you, right?
Shawna and I looked at each other and instantly our eyes popped out of our head.
Here are two level headed, very down to earth people who are saying they have a ghost in their house.
Supposedly this ghost used to lock them out of the house, shut the door, kick balls, and make noises in their house. They like to tell him to stop and knock it off and he does!
One time he locked them out of the house - they told him to open the door and he did.
We were scared stiff and to say the least the last time they had a party we made sure to stick together and not be left alone in the house!
Now there's a new movie out by Stephen King called 1408 Movie which sounds just about as spooky as Eugene. The whole premise is that a father loses his daughter in a tragic accident and faces his own ghosts and immortality in a hotel room.
It looks very scary and exciting and I'm not even sure that I'd be able to sit through the whole movie without being scared out of my wits!
Just check out the trailer for 1408 Movie:
I warned you, right?
No softball for you.
Well, we bombed out on softball. Shawna and I had a big fight over the whole thing and I ended up going outside with Graem. Sometimes the whole work and infertility thing just become way too much.
I guess it's easy to get wrapped up in the little, fine details.
I guess it's easy to get wrapped up in the little, fine details.
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