Beat the Clock Shopping Ed Hardy

These deals are CRAZY!  I damn near fell off my chair! If you love Ed Hardy or you didn't think you could afford to buy your kids "brand name" labels...THINK AGAIN!

I clicked through the Exclusive Cyber Day Shop, (pictured above), added an item to my cart and was blown away with the total from the original price!

You just gotta shop Ed Hardy NOW!

Shop through ebates to earn your cash back while your at it! 

♥ Shop Ed Hardy  CLICK HERE

♥ Sign up for ebates CLICK HERE

♥☺ Be sure to "Beat The Clock" for the best deals being offered today!

Ebates Earn Cash Back Shopping Online

Before we go any further, let's make sure you're getting the most out of your online shopping. Especially for you Cyber Monday shoppers!

When you shop through ebates you earn cash back!  They are even doing DOUBLE CASH BACK with over 400 stores!  You will accumulate your cash back and there are payment periods for your return.  Your cash back is sent out to you through check or your pay pal.  This particular period up to December 31st pays out February 15th!  What a perfect Valentines gift to yourself!  Imagine the payout!

Ebates is easy to sign up for and you can start shopping and earning your cash back immediately!  Refer your family or friends and get $5 per referral!  Shopping is fun when you spend money and get money back!  Knowing me, I would forget about earning my cash back and come February I'll be one happy woman! 

Shop at stores like Nordstrom, Victoria's Secret, Target, JCPenney, Kohl's, Walmart, Macy's, Old Navy and more!  Get cash back shopping Ebay too!

To sign up for ebates and start earning your cash back this holiday season

 CLICK HERE

♥ Check out the HELP tab for further information on the most commonly asked questions!

♥♥ Thank you to Share The 31 Secret for posting ebates within their Cyber Monday postings!  Otherwise I would have forgot to share this with you!

Build-A-Bear Workshop Cybear Monday

If you think this Holiday Mouse is cute, you should see the other six!  That's right, Build-A-Bear Workshop is having their Cybear Monday!  They are offering seven different select animals for $7!  Regular price is $12 to $20! Limit is 10 of the specific $7 dollar animals. 

There is also a code for FREE SHIPPING on your order of $50 or more!  (You do the math!)  There is a special code for the shipping so be sure to look for it on the front page!

Shop through ebates and get cash back!  The savings just don't stop! Works for me!

Shop Build-A-Bear Workshop  CLICK HERE

Sign up for ebates  CLICK HERE

♥ IDEA you could place your gift cards or holiday cards along with one of the animals and give as an entire gift!  Perfect for loved ones and I'm sure a big hit for the grandkids!

JCPenney Online Door Busters

JCPenney has always had great sales.  Don't miss out on today's Cyber Monday Specials!

♥ FREE SHIPPING on orders of $25 or more. Enter STARTNOW at checkout. YOU CANNOT BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER PROMOTION CODE

♥ Don't forget to sign up for their special coupons and offers!  You will find this at the top of the page.  Find them on Facebook too.

Shop JCPenney  CLICK HERE

Find on Facebook CLICK HERE

Kitchen Krafts Cyber Monday Deal

Now that you've got your cookbooks,  you need things to cook/bake with!  Shop Kitchen Kraft this Cyber Monday and receive 15% off your order of $99 up until midnight.   Use the special offer code PE20101129CM in your shopping cart.

To shop Kitchen Krafts CLICK HERE



Taste of Home 30% Off ONE DAY ONLY

Cyber Monday One Day Only SALE! 30% off everything. Enter code LS33. Valid only on 11-29-10

Let me just start by saying.... I OWN IT! If you don't have Taste of Home cookbooks or subscription in your home, GET SOME! I love Taste of Home!  Click on the link above and don't forget to use your code!  This is a Cyber Monday offer and is only good for Nov. 29, 2010. 

♥ Do you use Taste of Home?  What is your favorite recipe?  Share it with us below in the comments! 

1800FLOWERS Discount Vs. FREE SHIPPING

Cyber Monday SALE! Save $5 for purchases of $29.99 or more on thoughtful flowers and gifts at 1-800-FLOWERS.COM. Use Promo Code: CMONDAY5OFF

NOTE: The above offer is good through Nov. 30, 2010.  I found that when you go to their site, they have a free shipping code.  At the time of checkout, you can only use ONE  promotion code.  So choose which code is best for you.  Whichever code you choose, you will place it in the PROMOTION CODE section.

If you choose to sign up for their  rewards, you will be able to start earning your points on your first order!  Should you have any problems placing your order,  call their customer service line.  I called to verify some information and the gentleman I spoke with was very nice and informative.

♥This time of year can be bittersweet, especially if you or someone you know has lost someone.  1800FLOWERS has your special gifting in mind.  Should you have questions or need assistance with placing a special order, when you call there is a prompt specifically for this need.  I am happy they have this.  This means that these operators are specially trained to work with you.

Oh, what's the deal with the chocolate covered strawberries?  They just looked so dang good! ;)  I found these under Hanukkah! 











What You Should Know About Online Shopping

Online shopping is one of the most convenient ways to shop.  It can also be one of the most frustrating things you do.  With the holidays upon us and Cyber Monday, there are some things you should know.

After working well over several years in specialty retail, I have had the opportunity to work with a company in one of the top e commerce call centers.  It was a great experience and I learned a lot on the other side of retail.  It just happened to be during the Christmas season that I worked there.  So please take note on the following tips.  You can help make your shopping experience a better one!  Rest assured, that everything I share with you WILL ALLOW FOR THE BEST POSSIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE TO BE PROVIDED TO YOU!

BEFORE SHOPPING ONLINE:  Make a list of the companies you wish to shop with. 

MAKE AN ACCOUNT:  When you go to a company's site, there is always a place to "Sign In, My Account or Register".  Do so.  When you do this you will almost always receive a welcome email and may be provided with a special code or even free shipping.  In making your account, you will be able to set up all your information once without hassle for future orders.  This will also include your billing information.
♥ I made a seperate email for shopping only.  This way I don't have to go searching through my regular email!  It also makes it real easy to know that everything in that seperate email is exclusively for shopping only! 

PLEASE NOTE:  Make sure to pay attention to detail!  Your initial address may be different than your billing address for whichever card you use! 

WHEN PLACING AN ORDER WITH AN ONLINE REPRESENTATIVE:  Customer Service most definitely starts with the company's employees knowing and doing their job.  YOU AS THE CONSUMER MUST ALSO BE EQUALLY PROACTIVE WITH YOUR SHOPPING! Afterall, it is your hard earned dollar!  With that being said, if you happen to shop online and fill up your cart, yet don't want to use your credit card online and choose to have a customer service representative place the order for you, make sure you go over pertinent information.  Verify the correct spelling of your name and that your address and phone number are up to date in the system!  This saves a huge shipping nightmare!  TRUST ME!  Also if your name isn't spelled right it is VERY HARD to try and find you in the system!

WHAT HAPPENED TO THE ITEM THAT WAS IN MY CART? IT DISAPPEARED!:  Oh the joy of retail!  This happens because of how the "system" works.  When you fill up your cart and then proceed to check out,  during that time an item may have gone out of stock.  Whether by entire item, by size or by color.
It's not yours until payed for!  (Sucks yes I know.)  Which leads us to....

WHY HAVEN'T I RECEIVED MY ORDER?:  O.K. here's where we grab the wine.  This is gonna take a moment...or two.  YOUR ITEMS DO NOT SHIP UNTIL YOUR PAYMENT CLEARS! THAT IS WHEN THE "SHIPPING TIME" STARTS.  So you opt for the standard shipping.  Let's say 5 days.  If you order is placed on Monday, you are quite naturally expecting it on Friday.  NOT!  Provided your payment clears.  In a ideal situation, you place order, payment clears and then your items are shipped accordingly.  If for some reason your payment doesn't clear OR takes a little longer due to your bank or some type of hold, this is what holds up your shipping.  When the payment finally clears is when your shipping time starts! 

SHIPPING:  In keeping on the topic of shipping, keep in mind earlier when I mentioned to be detailed about your information.  Even when not using a CSR (customer service representative) to place your order, they are there 24/7 to assist you and guide you with your online experience! DO NOT WORRY ABOUT KEEPING THEM ONLINE TO ASSIST YOU!!! THAT IS WHAT THERE JOB IS! Do you really think that cubicle is fun in a box?  No, they are there for you! 

SHIPPING TO MULTIPLE PEOPLE:  Make sure you have all the correct information!  I cannot express this one enough.
♥ READ READ READ the shipping information provided for each company on their site.  Each one is different and you should be informed.  Especially when shipping to multiple people.  Sometimes your shipping may only be paid once or you may have to pay shipping for each address that you send to! 
TIP:  It wouldn't hurt to ask for a discount or for free shipping if you are sending to several people or have a large order.  I'm just saying! ;)

These are among the most basic yet most important things to know.  Hopefully you found this helpful or maybe even learned a thing or two!  If you have a comment or question, please feel free to list it below in the comments! 

What Is Cyber Monday?

So, what is Cyber Monday you ask?  Cyber Monday is the online Black Friday!

If you're like me and don't leave your home on Black Friday, then Cyber Monday just might be the way to go!

Unlike the crazed crowds and freezing your butt off all night into the early hours of the morning to score some amazing sales and great deals in the store,  online shoppers look forward to Cyber Monday for great deals and maybe even free shipping!  What better way to make use of your time when you're not on Facebook?!  (gasp, leave Facebook?  I know right! You're farming can wait!)

So, take a hot shower, jump into those pj's, throw on a pot of coffee and finish off that pumpkin pie!  We're about to bring you as many Cyber Monday sales and deals as we can along with tips on how to save more, who's offering free shipping and anything else we can find along the way!  

Ready?  Start doing your finger exercises! ☺

FREE Victoria's Secret Reward Card

Now through November 30th, with a purchase of $10 or more at Victoria's Secret, you will receive a FREE Secret Rewards Card!

The FREE Secret Rewards Card from Victoria's Secret are valued at $10, $50, $100 or $500! 

Once you receive your rewards card, you may start redeeming them starting December 1, 2010.  This beautiful offer available both in stores and online!  When shopping Victoria's Secret online, your reward card will be included with your order.

Shop through ebates to earn your cash back!  CLICK HERE

Happy Shopping!



♥ Did you shop Victoria's Secret?  We want to know how you scored on your rewards!  Come back and comment below!

The Love Buried Within

O.K. I'll say it, "SOMEBODY SHOOT ME!", there do you feel better now? Step one is admitting you're in denial. In other words, YES you're family has "issues"! Step two is defining FAMILY. Which should be, they're the only one I've got and at the end of the day I love them all. (God help me!)

As you can tell I have spent yet another Thanksgiving with family. Not just any family though. The In Laws! (dramatic music playing in the background)

Yes, grab your leftovers, a napkin, put your feet up and forget the glass. You just might want the whole bottle while you read this!

For the sake of my sanity, I have opted to change some minor details to save my ass!

We decided to come down to my in laws for the Thanksgiving Holiday. I must say that I indeed was excited as I have been wanting, yes I said wanting, to visit my mother in law. She has been going through a lot lately and I myself have been in a rut and this was the perfect opportunity to see everyone.

The drive in was great. As we left Sacramento and came into the area, all my troubles and worries disappeared. I love the area she lives in and it is beautiful. We chatted, caught up on things and shared our life's ups and downs. Laughs and tears were equally shared.

Now, if you have ever seen the movie Little Miss Sunshine, then you are ahead of the game here. Highly dysfunctional yet we're family and we love each other! We love each other. We love each other. (sorry, had to re focus!)

There is always the problem child, the headache, the agitated, the co dependant, the drunk and the ever so favorite, the bipolar!

Well put it all together on a day that should be nice and to be able to sit down and have a great meal and what do you have? In a word, FAMILY!

The hubby wants to go down to the local bar, his Mom attests to drinking, the sibling has had some issues and is here in mood swings, my child has turned into a banchee, mother in law is about to blow her lid and as for my father in law.... he's got some good meds because he's been pretty mellow. And unseen! Oh, what about me? Oh, I am definitely in a panic. Uhhh, I'm used to Mimosas in the morning followed by my Beringer White Zinfandel and capped off with Jack Daniels and egg nog at the end of the night while retelling the same stories every year. We're not in Kansas anymore Toto! (it's O.K. though, like any true "social drinker" I found my loop hole!)

Hubby went to the bar, other relatives last minute arrivals put a kink in the day, my child is driving me absolutely nuts, oh shit I forgot how long did she say to leave the biscuits in the oven?, father in law is waiting to eat, I can't keep my hands off the deviled eggs......then it happens.... BLOWOUT! Somehow I knew this was coming. The siblings argue, the father in law comes flying down the hallway wondering WT.... is going on, mother in law is about to turn beat red or cry, I am in another room laying down with my son who thank the heavens went down for a nap, and the uproar ends as quickly as it started.

As much as I wanted to run out and say HAPPY THANKSGIVING! I thought it best to sit this one out!

Very thankful for the dinner that was made. Food was once again amazing, dishes to be washed, everyone gathered for a movie and the day ended with a big sigh.

How did I make it through you might ask? Well, remember how we talked about relatives earlier? Lets just say I came across these bottles, that were beautiful and had a blush color! Did I mention a relative that used to stay here awhile back had a drinking issue? By no means am I making lite of someone who is in fact an alcoholic, I'm just seeing things in a different perspective. I see it as it was a gift left for me. From someone who "knows"! It was if it came with a note that would have read, "here, this will help",!

No matter what you do this holiday season, always welcome your family home. Believe it or not, the drama no matter how big or small, will only soon become a memory. I know that at least for this one night, we were all together. Together safe and warm with plenty to eat and with those who love us. Who the hell else would let some of us in their home?

Here's to you and your family. May you find the love buried within!

Where Have We Been?

So some of you have been wondering where the heck I have been. Well, lets just say Life Happens!

The economy took a toll on our family, cancer has taken the life of a family member and close friend, while another family member is still struggling. Kids are driving me nuts and the husband has been in and out of the doghouse! ;)

So what can one do but to take a deep breath and pray right through it!

Here I am, back in the saddle, ready to get myself together again! A little wine along the way doesn't hurt. O.K. who am I lying to...A LOT of wine!

Thank you for those of you who have inquired to my whereabouts and have welcomed me back! Nice to know you're out there paying attention! Wish the kids would do the same!

So what do you say? Ready for the seasons shopping deals and recipes? I am! Lets get through the rest of the year!

Twitter Tuesday

Welcome to Twitter Tuesday! This is quite simple. Every Tuesday I will "spotlight" someone I follow on Twitter.

Throughout the week I read some interesting tweets and some, more than others, catch my attention or end up in the back of my mind.

This week I suggest following Audrey McClellan. All I can say is she makes me laugh and I sit here nodding my head because I can SO relate to her tweets! Oh the joys of being a Mom!

I also took the time to check out her linked website. What I found here were some amazing and talented women! Did I mention that she speaks my language, retail!

Audrey McClellan is something to tweet about!

♥Follow her on twitter HERE

♥Check out her website HERE

Monday Movie and a Makeover

O.K. so it's not Monday! Maybe it's 'your' Monday though. I have been having a rough week and am playing catch up. Yesterday while becoming one with my couch, Fried Green Tomatoes was on. So I decided to watch it. I'm glad I did!

There's nothing better than a chic flick on a rather down day. I love this movie and it's been quite sometime since I've seen it.

The power of women and the trials of life that we endure together, comes together in this movie. I tell you, if I didn't have my girlfriends, I would definitely be in a nice padded accommodation somewhere with no happy hour! Seriously though, we as women NEED to have our friends and do need to take the time to listen to each other and laugh about some of our rather dumb decisions we make sometimes! Where would we be without each other? Kathy Bates just kills me over with her own personal crisis and how she "finds herself" through Idgy's story.

Oh, the makeover part, well..... grab your mirrors and let's examine our vaginas!

TO WANDA!!!

Wordless Wednesday

Your Weekend Planner

Joyce Meyers Ministries at Arco Arena Sacramento Ca.

Oceanside Harbor Days Oceanside Ca.

Giant Pumpkin Festival of Elk Grove Ca.

Monday Movie and a Makeover

Next month is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Well, breast cancer is world wide and knows no particular month. In honor of the upcoming month, I have selected Four Extraordinary Women for the movie today.

If you have Comcast, you will find Four Extraordinary Women in the Free Movies section! My Lifetime has this movie but is not currently airing it. You can check back HERE in the upcoming weeks to get upcoming airing dates. (just refresh the page there if you need to!)

As for the makeover part of today, we're actually going to have two parts! First part is to make an appointment to have your annual/breast exam! Call your Dr. and set up an appointment. Looking for more information? We have added a link below to get you started. (We will be posting several things throughout the month concerning breast cancer awareness!) Second part of the makeover is a virtual makeover!

Before you go and cut your hair, dye it, try some new make up, etc. Why not try a virtual look for free! Yes free! No downloading a program, using kiddie type or cartoony styles. The real you in some virtual makeover fun! While in MyLifetime I have discovered yet more games! (as if I haven't had myself stuck in facebook already, now I have re invited Lifetime back in! lol) This makeover is way too much fun! You may be there for awhile or maybe even uploading your gf's pic and giving her one too! Oh hell, why not do your makeover and post it as your facebook profile pic! Well, you'll know for sure if that new do is going to get you noticed or deleted! LOL!

♥Visit My Lifetime HERE
♥Start your virtual makeover HERE

♥We want to see your makeovers! Come and add your photo on our fan page on facebook! Let's see how you turned out! ♥♥ Become a fan HERE

♥Have comments about today's movie? Leave comments here or on our Discussion Board on our Facebook Fan Page!

♥♥♥ To find out more about Breast Cancer, click HERE

SwagBucks

This has got to be among the most exciting postings on my blog I ever bring you! SWAGBUCKS! I ♥ SwagBucks! I'm addicted and I can't stop using it, talking about it, shopping on it....FOR FREE!

(O.K. deep breath! ahhhh) Ready? Here we go!

SwagBucks, "the world's premier digital dollar", is the next best thing next to chocolate! (yes it's that good). Take for example things you do online everyday. You use your search engine, shop online, facebook etc. When you sign up for SwagBucks, you earn "swagbucks" to redeem for shopping! Search+earn+redeem=FREE!

I found SwagBucks by accident. I kept seeing my gf post on facebook, "I just won 8 swagbucks, 10 swagbucks, 12 swagbucks....", and asked myself, "What the hell are SwagBucks?". She was getting them everyday and I felt left out! So I clicked on the link. My daily facebook routine has not been the same since!

When I signed up, I was instantly rewarded with 30 swagbucks just for signing up! Now that's instant gratification my friends! Then I read through their FAQ's. Hmmm, is it really THIS EASY? YES!

How I earn everyday: I take part in the daily poll. This is just some random question and you receive one swagbuck. Then I filled out some information about myself and take TRUSTED MINI SURVEYS SCREENED FROM SWAGBUCKS themselves and I win anywhere from 75 to 150 swagbucks! Do you shop online? Shop through SwagBucks and every dollar you spend while shopping you're earning free swagbucks here too!

So what do you do with all your SwagBucks? Let's just put it this way, when I asked my gf what she does with them, she told me she did all of her daughters school shopping with them! NO WAY! You see, you can redeem you swagbucks for hundreds of items; electronics, clothing, gift cards EVEN CONVERT YOUR SB TO YOUR PAYPAL!! Yes, I said PayPal! Came across this one the other day!

There are many ways to earn and if you think about it, if you are doing these things online anyway, why not get some virtual "points" if you will and redeem for free things? Who couldn't use free?

I have redeemed for gift cards and am going to keep letting my bucks build til before Christmas! Some FREE SHOPPING is right up my alley!

I love SwagBucks so much, I have added the SWiDget at the top of my page here on my blog! This way you can see how many swagbucks I am earning!

Don't believe me? Check it out! WARNING: SWAGBUCKS IS ADDICTING AND YOU JUST MIGHT MAKE A GAME OUT OF IT!

Did I mention that you can get your facebook updates from your home page on Swagbucks! Oh, you have old cell phones to recycle, video games or other electronics to recycle as well? Get your label printed from SwagBucks and send them in. You will be rewarded!

What are you waiting for? You can read through my blog tonight when the kids go to bed! GET YOUR SWAG ON!

Really Are You Kidding Me

This morning after dropping my son off at school and a quick visit to my father in laws, we stopped by the store on the way home. My husband asks me if I want a Go Girl. Yes please. Well, the store didn't have it. Then we went to 7-11. Didn't have it in there either! Eric says, "what do you mean they don't have it?", Uh no, otherwise it would be in my hand, duh!

Of course I would love nothing more than to go a couple blocks down to Safeway and get them there because I know they have them. But noooooo, now he's late for work. Whatever, I guess I don't need one.

So, he drops me off and I get comfy in my chair and am happy that I have "computer time" all to myself! All was wonderful until I got hungry.

The first thought that came to mind was chocolate! Quick, easy and oh so satisfying. So I go to my purse to get my Reese's Fast Break. GONE! Apparently someone got into my stash. So I go look in my, oh wait, no one knows about that spot! Well, I look "there" GASP, GONE! O.K. fine, I'll have one of the peanut butter wafer snacks then. Are you ready for this? Box is in the cupboard, EMPTY!!! WTH? (don't you just love it when someone eats the last of something and leaving an empty box/container behind and then doesn't tell you it needs to be replaced? oh, if I only had a dollar for every time.....)

I go to the fridge and there's food but I am too lazy to make anything. Don't you just hate that, you have a craving, can't feed it, so you go for something else and yet, nothing seems appealing but your first choice? Ughhh. I break down and make a ham and turkey sandwich, some BBQ chips and blue Kool Aid. When I go to put pickles on my sandwich, THE EMPTY JAR OF JUICE IS IN THE FRIDGE!!! Really, are you kidding me? (sighing deeply and banging head against refrigerator)

My lunch filled my tummy and I am ready for a nap. Hmmm, I wish I had a Go Girl! ♥

Freebies and Exclusive Sample Offers

Burt's Bees Toner ~ Details Apply
JR Watkins Head to Toe Kit ~ Details Apply
Listerine Dissolving Strips ~ Details Apply


♥Free Samples of Brilliant pH tampons
♥Free samples of Cover Girl and Olay Simply Ageless Serum Primer
♥Free sample of Thomas Coffee
♥Free Sample of Miracle Skin Transformer
♥Free sample of Wisk Liquid Laundry Detergent

Wordless Wednesday

CrockPot Lasagna Recipe

Yes, the title of this post is correct, you CAN cook lasagna in the crockpot and I am going to tell you how. When I found a recipe online, I admit I was skeptical. Being a fan of my crockpot, I had to give it a try. It ended up turning out GREAT and the kids love it.

Now for the Crockpot Lasagna Recipe.....

Ingredients:

• 1 package lasagna noodles - uncooked
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage - cooked and drained
• 1 pound ground beef - cooked and drained
• 2 cups cottage cheese
• 2 cups Mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 jar spaghetti sauce - large

Directions:

1. Line the bottom of your crock pot with a few layers of uncooked lasagna noodles.
2. In a pot, mix your spaghetti sauce, ground beef and sausage.
3. Use about half of your sauce mixture and cover the layer of noodles in crock pot.
4. Now spread half of the cottage cheese over the top of the sauce mixture/noodles .
5. Slowly pour the 1/2 cup water on top
6. Now sprinkle 1 cup of Mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Repeat the above steps 1-6, to create a second layer of lasagna but OMIT the water.
8. Put on the lid and let cook on low for 4 to 6 hours

You can find more yummy recipes on my cooking blog at This Mom Can Cook

Enjoy!

Stefani

Home Alone!

WHOO HOO! I am home ALONE!

Don't you just love it when you have your entire house, apartment, space, hell your bathroom for that matter, all to yourself? How blissful these times are. Come on, there's a difference when you're married or have roommates, compared to having a full house that includes kids! Really, when was the last time you were able to use the bathroom or soak in a hot bath without being bothered? Still thinking?

This was another hectic morning. Trying to get the monster to school, nagging at the husband to help, looking for the keys and my mind reeling of things that need to get done today. Finally we're off. Did the drop off, got some gas, ran an errand and picked up my father in law for his Dr. appointment. Then my husband did something right... he looks over and says to me, "Why don't you just stay home and I'll take Dad to the Dr.", I ran so quick to open the door, "O.K. babe, drive safe and I'll see you later!".

I walked them to the truck. Made sure they buckled up and had all the paperwork and insurance card, gave them each a kiss and said see you later. Walked back into the house and shut the door, WHOOO HOOO! I grabbed that remote so quick, threw on my soap opera, (Young and the Restless), just happened to remember where I had that chocolate stashed, kicked up my feet... ahhhh!

I think to myself, hmm, I can catch up on a few things. Reorganize the closet, separate the rest of the laundry, finish up some paperwork, etc. Nah!

Free Pedometer at Kmart

My neighbor just recently bought a treadmill. You know what I say to that? Bravo for her! Now pass the chocolate! lol I know I should take up her offer on getting on the damn thing. After all, with the holidays right around the corner, I will need to keep up with myself before putting on that "winter coat" of mine! That's what I call the extra pounds I pack on through the first of the year! ;)

Happily I came across a freebie for a pedometer at Kmart! I thought, how cool is that, my girlfriend would love it and she can wear it to work too!

From now until October 31,2010, you can print out a coupon and redeem it at Kmart for your free pedometer! You must have your Shop Your Way Rewards Card to redeem it though. This card is free as well!

Click here to receive your coupon for your FREE Sportline Step & Distance Pedometer

Yes, I did in fact print one out for myself! Gotta start somewhere!

~ Thank You to Stefani at Mom's Freebie Blog for posting this and letting us share!

High Heels and Lemonade

How High Heels and Lemonade came to be!

High Heels; city girl, shopping, nightclubs, high end fashion, handbags and purses larger than life itself, any and everything retail! You know, all the things we love and could afford BEFORE the expense of kids!

Lemonade; as they say, when life gives you lemons... make lemonade. Life isn't always fair. Or so that's how we perceive it. Well, I've been given a lot of lemons over the years. Some of them I even picked! Don't just sit there under the tree and let them rain all over you. DO SOMETHING! MAKE YOUR OWN LEMONADE!

So here we are! I love retail. I am determined to make the most of my life and for my family. As you follow me, you will definitely find great deals, shopping tips, tips for those of you that work in retail, giveaways and freebies! You'll also be able to share along with tears, laughs and support of going through this thing called "life"!

One day you may even see our store which we hope to launch this next year! Please let me know if there is anything you would like to see here. Share your favorite stores/shops, even your new business. We'd love to know what's out there!

Oh, one more thing, when you're having one of those "lemon" days... ADD VODKA!

First Day of School

When do we ever really "let go"? I was so adamant about homeschooling my son this year. He is a little behind and I figured that I could work with him more and catch him up, go on field trips... sleep in! When all the while it just screams DENIAL! I don't want to let go. I want to keep him with me and share his every moment.

Circumstances and the reality of knowing he should really be in school led me down to the registration office! By the time I got the last of the paperwork done, I was tearing up. Getta grip I know, but this is the last of my children and the time goes by SO fast!

So today came. It took an act of God to get this child outta the house. He didn't want to eat his breakfast. Then I asked if he wanted to rinse off before getting dressed. "No", o.k. fine then get dressed, "I need to take a bath",. My patience was being tried. He gets in the shower, then runs naked down the hall. "GET DRESSED NICK YOU'RE GOING TO BE LATE!", and what does he do? Streaks through the house, then I hear this loud fart followed by a roaring giggle. He decides that a whoopie cushion is the best thing to do! Well it gave us a laugh and probably saved his little life as I was beginning to lose whatever patience I had left since I hadn't had my coffee yet!

Needless to say, we got out the door and we were on our way. We get there and walk into the office, since whoopie man was late. She assigns his teacher and then it happens. This is it, the time is near. I hear a violin playing in my head. As we walk down the hall to his class I feel as if I'm walking the green mile! My little Nicky holds out his hand and grabs mine as we walk. To hell with holding my hand to cross the street or in the store, now he wants to hold it! But that's o.k. because I want to hold it forever.

Walk into the class, get introduced to his teacher and she gives me some stuff to take home. Before he goes to take his seat, I look at his little face and gave him a hug. (Not without visions of grabbing him and running back out to the truck as if I snatched him!) I gave him a kiss and told him to have a good day. Walked out and lost it!

Had to stop back by the office. I must have looked as pathetic as I felt. She gave me a hug! Got to the truck and all I wanted to do is run to my Mom's house and cry. This time goes by so fast. I will hold onto every moment. Til tonight, when the little shit won't eat his dinner!

Monday Movie and a Makeover

March is here and what better way to start our Monday Movie and a Makeover with a classic! John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara in The Quiet Man!

With St. Patricks Day right around the corner and all that's green, this seems like the perfect way to kick things off! (Did I mention that I just cut and colored my hair? RED!) I love watching this movie and Maureen winning her man! Let us not forget the drunken Matchmaker! (O.K. grab a bottle of wine while you're at it!♥)

So today, let's sit back, watch this movie and color our hair! Start saying goodbye to winter blahs and bring some color back into your life! I have been dying to cut my hair as my ends are terribly dry. DON'T GO FOR THAT DRASTIC HAIR CUT! All you need to perk you right up is a good trim to rid of those dry split ends and HAIR COLOR to get you started!

Now as I mentioned before, I live in a very small town and there is not much here in the way getting your "hair did" like you do in the city! So, I compromised! I went and got a really nice cut from someone local that does other family members hair. After that it was finding some color!

O.K. so I normaly get a particular color from a beauty supply store. Since it is not here, I decided to go for the "box"! I must say, I am quite pleased with my color! I went to Rite Aid and chose Nutrisse R1 from Garnier. Yes, I did freak out watching as I was applying this nice creme that was ORANGE to my hair! But it indeed came out nice!

Oh, you already did your hair? No worries, a mini mani/pedi will do the trick! So what do you say? Are you ready to kick of our Monday Movie and a Makeover?

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I Don't Do Mondays

I don't know about you, but, I don't do Mondays! I hate Mondays. As a matter of fact, I can't tell you the last time I even worked on a Monday.

The beginning of the work week, the realization that all the glory of sleeping in, shopping, movies all night and doing absolutely nothing, all taken away at the crack before the crack of dawn! Getting the kids out of bed and off to school. Being ready to walk out the door yet not having your keys. Pulling out of the driveway, only to get down the block and realize you forgot something....or one of the kids!

I HATE MONDAYS! They curse me, they absolutely curse me. Anymore I refuse to leave my house on a Monday. I am clumsy, nothing ever goes right and I have decided enough is enough! I am boycotting Monday Madness! lol I will not start my week in utter chaos, piles of paperwork, traffic, or trying to find things. While I'm at it...to hell with the laundry too!

What ever will I do then? Well, I'll tell you... I will embrace it. Monday will be "My Day". My day off, to do whatever I please! And I will call this day ~ Monday Movie and a Makeover!♥

Come join me!♥

Shopping Meltdown

O.K., when I said I'm a city girl in the country, I wasn't lying! I am having a total shopping meltdown! I used to work for a very well known company in their call center. During the holidays, I seriously could not understand, "those" people who weren't willing to make the "drive" to get their item/product. Karma does have a way of getting a hold of you!

Well, I am about an hour out, at least, from the nearest mall! GASP! I know, I know, what is a girl to do? This is one of the primary reasons I started this dang blog! Speaking from experience doesn't even touch the surface with me at this point. Hell, I can't even go and buy some pretty panties if I wanted to...(pausing til heart rate slows down....)!

So first it started with wanting a new purse. Then it was finding a hairdresser and new nail lady. After that came the panties, (hold on, grabbing paper bag, breathe...breathe...), O.K. moving on!

Needless to say, I'm on a mission and sister, you're going with me! Fill my shopping bag or bust! Be sure to watch for my next blogs because I am determined to shop and do it without leaving my computer! Unless of course I need more chocolate and cheesecake! The grocery store here at least has that!♥

Almost Wordless Wednesday

In coming up with a photo to use for today, I was going a little nutty because there are pics I like but am going to use for other blogs today. So I tried to think of something neat and fun! This is what I came up with!

To check out more sidewalk chalk illusions from this artist CLICK HERE

City of Angels

Born in Los Angeles and living half my life in Southern California, you best believe I am a city girl at heart! I miss the nights of Hollywood, Newport, Brea and of course downtown Los Angeles. I'm sure much has changed since then but it will always be home to me.

As a kid, our Mom would would take us to Huntington Beach every Saturday. We would leave at 7am and not to return until about 10pm. Sundays consisted of long drives, or at least what seemed long to us as kids. I really enjoyed our drives to San Juan Capistrano. (Especially when I discovered The Cheesecake Factory!) Our Mom would pretend we were lost and ask us which way we thought she should turn to get home. I miss those drives.

We as kids were fortunate enough to go to Disneyland at least once a year as well as Knott's Berry Farm. (If you haven't had chicken dinner at Knott's Berry Farm, you're missin out!)

The field trips to Olvera Street, The Griffith Observatory, Huntington Beach Library, The Rose Parades in Pasadena, watching the Raiders play at the Coliseum, my prom at The Bonaventure Hotel...oh all the memories. I miss Los Angeles, the City of Angels.

Wordless Wednesday

Rocking Chair Dreams

There comes a point in time where you sit back and ponder life. For me, that actual time was with my husband. There we sat and shared our dreams, ambitions and how we wanted to grow old together. A place to raise our kids. To be a part of a strong community. A home that where the foundation was solely based on love. You know, the times you talk about where to buy your home. How many kids you want and what their names would be. For us it was to one day settle in the country and get some property, build our home together and sit back one day on our front porch and just .... take it all in. These are our rocking chair dreams! "One day when we're old, we're going to sit out on our front porch in our rocking chairs and drink our lemonade".

Well, here we are and this is where we begin. The view is gorgeous. Once again I can view the beauty of the sky at night without the city lights. Never in a million years would I ever think I would be "here" and truly appreciate this kind of life. I know that I am blessed.