Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Things that change once you have kids

1. Sleep- the amount you can survive without and how much you miss it.
2. Walks- once a relaxing past time, now is focused on getting everyone around the block without getting hit by a car or any other injuries.
3. Carnivals- I used to LOVE going to our town's festival during the summer. But I swear I will NEVER let my kid go on that Zipper ride. Too much upside down and WAY too creaky (did I mention that it was my Favorite growing up?)
4. Airplane rides- they just get me nervous. Next time we fly I am taking a Valium.
What has changed for you since having the kids?
Sorry this is not my typical Tipsy Tuesday post. If you must know, I was drinking Jack Daniels and Coke Zero this weekend. It seemed like a good "hurricane" cocktail.
:)

Monday, August 29, 2011

Happy Monday and freezing suggestions needed

Irene has come and gone. We were lucky that we did not have any damage. A tree went down on a house on my block- that poor family.
I did not lose power (thank goodness), but I did lose my cable. No phone, tv, and worst of ALL- No Internet! I am using my blog writer app for my IPhone. Let's see if it works.
I have a question for my batch cookers out there. I made 2lbs of chicken cutlets on Sat. I let them cool and put them in the fridge. Can I freeze them today? I mean to do it yesterday, but I forgot.
Thanks for your help!
:)

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Be safe my friends!

Miz Irene is a-coming.  Be safe and talk to you all soon!


:)

Friday, August 26, 2011

How are you preparing for the Witchy Irene?

I had a FANTASTIC (add sarcasm here) morning.  First, off to the doctor for P (fever) and N (big bug bite).  All is good , no meds, bye bye $40 (copay).  Then off to hubbie's job (30 minutes away, he left his cell home), with a detour to find a Shell gas station.  For those of  you who don't know, Stop and Shop has a big promotion: spend $100 and get 100 points, which equals to $.10 off a gallon of gas at Shell.  I had 500 points which was $.50 off a gallon  (Rock on!).  I drove out of my way on empty to redeem my points and paid $3.49 a gallon.  (Freakin' Awesome price for Long Island.)  Did I forget to mention I also stopped at Dunkin Donuts to feed the crew.  Happy kids= happy life.
 
Then off to Stop and Shop for hurricane Irene essentials!

Here's what I got:





Don't worry everyone!  We will be well fed in my house.  
Marinated steak, chicken cutlets, veggies, cheese and crackers, and chips and dips. 
Don't forget the cookies and M&Ms.   
And of course whipped cream. Can't have a hurricane party without it!

I also earned 240 points this shopping session, which equals $.20 off gas. 
I know, I should have used coupons.  
Maybe next time!

How are you preparing for Irene's arrival?

"Hers-Day" Review and Giveaway!

My little peanut has be screaming since the minute she woke up.  Poor baby is teething and miserable!  I totally get it, but Mommy needs a break.

Today I need to take a few minutes for myself, cuz it's gonna be a LOONG day.  So as the "princess" sleeps, I am going to take a scream-free shower.

This is what I use to spoil myself a little.


I love this stuff!  It has a mild and fresh scent and leaves my skin silky smooth.  It lathers up nicely and is easy to shave with.  I have used this since high school.  Sometimes the smell helps me forget for a few minutes that I am a 30-something with kids (that is until someone knocks at the door to tell on his brother!).

For my second giveaway, I would like share Neutrogena Rain Bath with one of my readers.
Let's pretend we are back in high school together! :)





Are there any smells that bring back memories for you?

And The Winner Of The Neutrogena Rainbath Giveaway Is.........







Congratluations Sarah!  There is an email in your in box!

A special thank you to all that entered!  You've made my second giveaway such a success!
I will be posting a new giveaway soon!

In the meantine, if you want to give give Neutrogena Rainbath a try:


Today I will be getting ready for nasty Irene to come visit.There's nothing like fighting the masses for bottled water and Spam (well maybe not spam, but definitely coldcuts!)

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Lots of Lovin’ Weekend Blog Hop #4


Lots of Lovin’ Weekend Blog Hop





Hosted by :
Life According to Damaris (http://lifeaccordingtodamaris.com)
Co-Hosted by:
Where Nothing Good Comes Easy (http://www.wherenothinggoodcomeseasy.com)
It’s a Sun Kissed Life (http://itsasunkissedlife.blogspot.com/)
Answers from the Queen of Useless Information (http://www.alianswers.blogspot.com/)


Sharing the love all weekend long!

This blog hop is a NO RULES blog hop for GFC follows, Facebook likes, Twitter follows, Alexa reviews & whatever other social network out there.

Anything goes AS LONG AS IT’S FAMILY FRIENDLY. Anything that’s not family friendly will be deleted but I trust there won’t be any spammers.
When you enter your information in the linky list, be sure to write what you want next to your blog name. Example: Life According to Damaris (Alexa) if I want someone to review my blog at Alexa, Life According to Damaris (Facebook) if I want a Facebook like, etc. You can add as many links as you want to all of your social networks.

The only thing we ask is if someone reviews, likes or follows you, please try & return the favor. But most importantly, have FUN & it’s not mandatory but if you’d like, grab the button to spread the word about the Blog Hop so more people can join!














Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Wordless Wednesday

Earthquake? In New Yawk?! And Other Thoughts For The Day

Yep, that's right.  The earthquake in Virginia (I think it was a 5.9), was felt ALL the way up the coast to NY.  My brother felt it, my sister felt it, my friends felt it.  Me?  I was talking on the phone and didn't feel a thing.  I guess it's a good thing.

My hubbie, however, has been in DC for work for almost a week.  He DEFINITELY felt it.  He told me the building started shaking and he calmly walked to the door.  By the time he was there the shaking stopped.  Once I realized the earthquake was right out DC, I immediately freaked.  It took me 45 minutes to get in touch with DH.  He was ok, but there was no phone service.  He could only email.

Reality stuck me yesterday.  I couldn't speak to my hubbie for 45 minutes.  How about all those women and men whose significant others are fighting for our country overseas.  They may not have contact for days or weeks at a time.  And you manage to keep it all together.

I think way to often THAT part of a military relationship is overlooked.  It must be so stressful and unsettling.  And I only had a feeling of it for 45 minutes.
You are all amazing!  Thank you and your family for all of your hard work and dedication to our country.

Join me at Wednesday Blog Hops!






Give a Hoot Wednesday Blog Hop







Free Hot Samples




Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Tipsy Tuesday- Marietta California Old Vine Red Lot No. 54




I have been drinking this red blend since it was Lot No. 19.   Marietta California Old Vine Red No. 54 is a Zinfandel based blend.  The mix is always flavorful, with a hint of fruit and pepper.  Old Vine Red is enjoyable with meat and pasta, but you know me, I usually drink it with chips and dip.  It's a deal at $10 a bottle.
Definitely try Marietta California Old Vine Red Lot No. 54 or any other lot number you can find.  It's delish!

Monday, August 22, 2011

I am so behind the times.

Somethings I am on top of: new TV shows, fancy drinks, fashion (OK not REALLY fashion- I was alot cooler pre-kids).  But I may have been the LAST to know about Pandora internet radio.
Where the heck have I been?

Anyway, for those of you who haven't experienced Pandora yet, it creates a radio station based on what YOU like!
So Cool!  First you must list your favorite songs, groups, or types of music genre on the website, then Pandora will select songs based your list.  When a song is played, you can "thumbs up" or "thumbs down" it.  This helps Pandora tweak your radio station and find songs that are similar to what you want to hear.

Pandora is my new obsession.  I have its app on my IPhone and I can stream music in my car, my home, basically anywhere I have internet access.

You have to try Pandora, you'll love it!

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Six Word Saturday- Come join us!


Come join me at Show My Face for Six Word Saturday.
Here's my entry:

I wish I could sleep in.

In my "pre-kiddie" years, I took full advantage of how great sleep was.  I went out late, woke up early, pulled all-nighters.  It was not a problem.  I knew at SOME point during the week, I would make up for it.  Fast forward 8 years.  Sleep, I miss you.  I just can get enough of you and I AM TRULY SORRY I took advantage of you all these years.  

What are you BBQing?

Happy Weekend! I promised a recipe earlier this week. It's not grilled fruit (I will get to it before the summer is through). I have tons of celebrations this weekend. I feel like I am partying like a high schooler!

I am not an inventive cooker, but I can follow a recipe (usually with some modifications). Here is something I made for Father's day this year.

Beer Can Chicken

Submitted By: Hunter's Mom 2008
(My changes are in RED)

Prep Time: 15 Minutes
Cook Time: 1 Hour 15 Minutes
Ready In: 1 Hour 30 Minutes
Servings: 4

"This delicious whole chicken is barbecued on top of an open beer can for added juiciness and flavor."

INGREDIENTS:
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons paprika
2 teaspoons dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
(You know me- I changed up the spices a bit.  For Father's day I used garlic powder, salt, and pepper)
1/2 (12 fluid ounce) can beer  (I didn't have a can of beer.  I used 1/2 bottle of dark beer and a vegetable can- cleaned out of course)
1 (3 pound) whole chicken
1 small apple to stick in neck (keeps the steam inside to cook the chicken)


DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat, about 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Mix the brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, dry mustard, salt, and ground black pepper in a small bowl. Place the half-full can of beer in the center of a plate.  (Add my substitutions here)


2. Rinse chicken under cold running water. Discard giblets and neck from chicken; drain and pat dry. Fit whole chicken over the can of beer with the legs on the bottom; keep upright. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of the seasoning mix into the top cavity of the chicken. The beer may foam up when the seasonings fall inside the can. Rub the remaining seasoning mix over the entire surface of the chicken.

3. Place the chicken, standing on the can, directly on the preheated grill.  (I placed the chicken on a pie pan for extra stability and to catch the juices.) Close the lid and barbecue the chicken until no longer pink at the bone and the juices run clear, about 1 hour 15 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, near the bone should read 180 degrees F (82 degrees C). Remove the chicken from the grill and discard the beer can. Cover the chicken with a doubled sheet of aluminum foil, and allow to rest in a warm area for 10 minutes before slicing.

This recipe is super easy and impressive and the chicken was juicy and tender.  I used a dark beer, but I think any beer would do.  The beer didn't add much flavor, but it helped to keep the chicken moist.  Next time I will change the seasonings.  Maybe I will infuse some spices under the skin.  Or smother the chick with BBQ sauce.  Or maybe a spicy rub.  MMMM, the possibilities are endless.



Yep- that's me and my chicken! :)


Thursday, August 18, 2011

Lots Of Lovin' Weekend Blog Hop #3


Lots of Lovin’ Weekend Blog Hop





Hosted by :
Life According to Damaris (http://lifeaccordingtodamaris.com)
Co-Hosted by:
Where Nothing Good Comes Easy (http://wherenothinggoodcomeseasy.blogspot.com/)
It’s a Sun Kissed Life (http://itsasunkissedlife.blogspot.com/)
Answers from the Queen of Useless Information (http://www.alianswers.blogspot.com/)


Sharing the love all weekend long!

This blog hop  is a NO RULES blog hop for GFC follows, Facebook likes, Twitter follows, Alexa reviews & whatever other social network out there.

Anything goes AS LONG AS IT’S FAMILY FRIENDLY. Anything that’s not family friendly will be deleted but I trust there won’t be any spammers.
When you enter your information in the linky list, be sure to write what you want next to your blog name. Example: Life According to Damaris (Alexa) if I want someone to review my blog at Alexa, Life According to Damaris (Facebook) if I want a Facebook like, etc. You can add as many links as you want to all of your social networks.

The only thing we ask is if someone reviews, likes or follows you, please try & return the favor. But most importantly, have FUN & it’s not mandatory but if you’d like, grab the button to spread the word about the Blog Hop so more people can join!


















Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Tipsy Tuesday- Dr. Konstantin Frank Semi Dry Riesling

I'm baaaaaack!  This stupid sinus infection is finally gone.  I cannot believe that I was out of commission for over a week.  Welcome to my new and old followers.  I am sorry I haven't been more interesting.

Anyway, for my late edition of Tispsy Tuesdays, I am reviewing

Dr. Konstantin Frank Semi Dry Riesling


It's vintage is 2009 and is described as semi dry.  Reislings can be pretty sweet.  Dr. K's has the hint of sweetness, but is not too sugary or fruity.  Another great wine I would drink with appetizers, desserts, or at any family BBQ.  It would be a nice complement to a delicious grilled fruit dessert.  (Maybe I will review a yummy grilled fruit recipe later this week- I owe you guys something good!)

Here is another review of Dr. Konstantin Frank Semi Dry Riesling.  It gets great reviews!

Another thing that I like about this vino is that it is from a vineyard in the Finger Lake region of NY.  Check out a review about this vineyard from James Flynn's Wine Blog here.

You all know that I am pretty cheap when it comes to my wine.  (I mean in price, not in flavor).  Try this bottle for about $13.  It's delicious!
Cheers!

Sunday, August 14, 2011

I Won! The Versatile Blogger Award!


First of all I would like to thank Mikki at Mom's Best Nest for nominating me for this award!  It's my first blog award in a LOOOONG time so I am totally excited!

The rules after accepting the Versatile Blogger Award are:
1. Thank the person who gave the award and link back to them in your post.
2. Share 7 things about yourself.
3. Pass this award along to 15 recently discovered blogs.

Here are my 7:
1.  I am a reality show junkie (I am watching Jerseylicious as I am writing this)
2.  I really know a bunch of useless info.  I can remember random crap, but can't remember to put the laundry in the dryer.
3.  I love the beach, but never swim in the ocean.
4.  My favorite drink is Jack Daniels and Coke Zero.
5.  I am a crafting wanna-be.  I try to make a little of everything and suck at it all.
6.  I am a coffee fanatic.
7.  My favorite movie is The Wedding Singer.

Now I will happily pass this award onto:
1.  Mommy's Time Out
8.  We Are All In This Together
9.  The Dragon's Fairytail
10.  My Own Four Corners
11. Lisa Blogs
12. Storm Front
13. SupahMommy

Congratulations to all my fellow bloggers!

Spend Time With The Ones You Love

Over the past few months, my life has been touch by too many tragedies.  It is difficult to explain to my children why things happen to people we care about.  There is no rhyme or reason to events that happen in our lives. 

As I sit back to reflect on all the changes occurring in the lives around me, only one thought pops into my head.

Spend Time With The Ones You Love

How many times do we worry about not having enough, not doing enough, not being enough?  I constantly worry about keeping my children busy, active, and happy. 

Have you ever asked your children what makes them happy?

I recently asked my oldest what was his favorite part of the summer.  He replied, "Spending time with Daddy and the family."  This is after going to amusement parks, camps, out for ice cream,  movies (I can go on- my kids have had an AMAZING summer....)

So I guess my point is, on the rainy Sunday afternoon, to spend time with your family.  Do something or do nothing.  Just pass some time together and savor the moment.  Life is so unpredictable these days, don't let it pass you by without taking the time to enjoy your loved ones.

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Lots of Lovin’ Weekend Blog Hop #2

I am sorry I have been MIA this week!  We had a family vacation to PA (and I have been sick).  So you can imagine late nights, early mornings, days at Dutch Wonderland and add a child that doesn't want to sleep (the princess of course!).  Did I mention the fire alarm going off at 6 AM this morning, (Seriously).  I am one tired chica!

Anyway, enough about me.  I want to invite you all to the


Lots of Lovin’ Weekend Blog Hop






Hosted by :

Life According to Damaris (http://lifeaccordingtodamaris.com)

Co-Hosted by:

Where Nothing Good Comes Easy (http://wherenothinggoodcomeseasy.blogspot.com/)

It’s a Sun Kissed Life (http://itsasunkissedlife.blogspot.com/)

Answers from the Queen of Useless Information (http://www.alianswers.blogspot.com/)






Sharing the love all weekend long!



This blog hop  is a NO RULES blog hop for GFC follows, Facebook likes, Twitter follows, Alexa reviews & whatever other social network out there.



Anything goes AS LONG AS IT’S FAMILY FRIENDLY. Anything that’s not family friendly will be deleted but I trust there won’t be any spammers.

When you enter your information in the linky list, be sure to write what you want next to your blog name. Example: Life According to Damaris (Alexa) if I want someone to review my blog at Alexa, Life According to Damaris (Facebook) if I want a Facebook like, etc. You can add as many links as you want to all of your social networks.



The only thing we ask is if someone reviews, likes or follows you, please try & return the favor. But most importantly, have FUN & it’s not mandatory but if you’d like, grab the button to spread the word about the Blog Hop so more people can join!





 








Sunday, August 7, 2011

Lots of Lovin’ Weekend Blog Hop #1

Lots of Lovin’ Weekend Blog Hop


Hosted by :


Co-Hosted by:





Sharing the love all weekend long!



This blog hop  is a NO RULES blog hop for GFC follows, Facebook likes, Twitter follows, Alexa reviews & whatever other social network out there.



Anything goes AS LONG AS IT’S FAMILY FRIENDLY. Anything that’s not family friendly will be deleted but I trust there won’t be any spammers.

When you enter your information in the linky list, be sure to write what you want next to your blog name. Example: Life According to Damaris (Alexa) if I want someone to review my blog at Alexa, Life According to Damaris (Facebook) if I want a Facebook like, etc. You can add as many links as you want to all of your social networks.



The only thing we ask is if someone reviews, likes or follows you, please try & return the favor. But most importantly, have FUN & it’s not mandatory but if you’d like, grab the button to spread the word about the Blog Hop so more people can join!









Sick Sucks

I was so sick today.  I mean "can't get out of bed" sick.  Timing always stinks when you are sick.  Anyway, a few hours of sleep and a bunch of antibiotics later, I am ready to start my "day". 

Luckily I don't get sick alot.  (I guess I developed immunity from teaching and just being a mommy).  But when I am sick, I am REALLY sick.  And then I fall behind on everything that I am supposed to do.  Don't you wish that moms could just have a sick day?  Someone else would be responsible for laundry, feeding the kids, and general day to day "stuff". 

In the meantime, I am trying to play catch up from my day in bed.  Hope you all are having a Happy Sunday!

Saturday, August 6, 2011

Come visit some of my "friends"

Here are two of my original "friends in my head".  Check them out!

Emily from Jones Design Company

Emily has a amazing blog about creative home decorating, crafting tutorials, family life, and anything else she can think of.  She also has a design company that produces art prints, name prints, her own handwriting font, and other types of stationary (She created the most perfect tags for my daughter's Baptism favor).  Emily has great giveaways too!  Always a collection of goodies.  This month the theme is Dots.  Check out her August giveaway here!

The Nester from The Nesting Place

The Nester was one of the first blogs I ever followed.  She also has wonderful decorating ideas, tutorials, inspirational posts, and great challenges (Check out the 31 Days Of Change Nester is hosting in October.  I have a few topics I am thinking of).  She is the reason I have 2 wing back chairs in my garage (I have yet to slipcover, but I am working on it!)

Check out my 2 "friends"!  Don't forget to tell them I sent you!

Remember to stop by the Lots Of Lovin' Weekend Blog Hop!

Happy Weekend! 

Friday, August 5, 2011

Review and Giveaway- Sally Hansen Salon Effects

Let's just get this clear.  I have NO talent when it comes to anything cosmetic.  I can't apply eyeshadow, I look stupid in lipstick, and cannot paint my nails without smudging.  So you can believe how excited I was when I found Sally Hansen Salon Effects in my local drugstore.


The Salon Effects are essentially stickers, although SH calls then "polish strips". They vary in color, and designs.  Some are basic and others are WILD.  I have tried Wild Child (a zebra-like print) and It Girl (solid pinkish color).

For this review, I applied Bling It On to my toes. 
You know I must really love you guys to post pictures of my feet! 


Each box of Salon Effects comes with 16 Nail Polish Strips (in case you make a mistake), a cuticle stick, and a double sided nail file and buffer.

1. I prepped my toes by filing, shaping, and wiping them with nail polish remover .



2. I took off the clear protective cover and pulled the polish strip from the backing paper.

3.  I placed the strip on my nail.  It can be placed vertically or horizontally depending on nail size and pattern.

4.  Using the flat side of the cuticle stick, flatten the polish strip against the nail and cuticle edge.


5.  File the polish strip away using the light pink portion.




Painless, easy and NO SMUDGES!  I have only used Salon Effects on my toes, although I have been told it is easier to apply to your finger nails.  It took me half of a True Blood episode to prep and finish.  Salon Effects costs about $9.00 a box and will last about 2 weeks.  In my experience, Salon Effects continue to look great after swimming in a pool, dragging my toes in the sand, and walking around all day in flip flops. 


I am sorry about the picture quality.  I couldn't get the lighting right.  I tried 3 different rooms!

For my FIRST GIVEAWAY a lucky reader will receive 
Sally Hansen Salon Effects in Bling It On

To enter:
Follow my blog using GFC  and leave a comment

For an additional entry:
Follow me on Networked Blogs and leave a comment

Please leave a separate comment for each entry.
Giveaway is applicable in US only.

The contest will end on Thursday, August 4 at 6 PM.
The winner will be picked by Random.org and must respond in 48 hours to receive the prize.

Good Luck!