Archive for » 2009 «

Leave Something to the Imagination

During the first stage of  pregnancy, most women anticipate the time when others will notice that they’re pregnant.   Many women are anxious to start wearing maternity clothes, so they won’t appear to be simply gaining weight. During the last stage of pregnancy, some women feel the desire to expose their bellies for the world to see. I’ve seen women who wear their shirts so tight that you can actually see their belly button sticking out. Others wear cropped tops that leave most of their belly exposed! Obviously they’re proud of their pregnancy, and I’m happy for them,  but we don’t need to see bare skin to realize that they’re pregant.

I have two children of my own, and I understand the feeling of excitement, and the desire to feel attractive during pregnancy, but it is possible look attractive and modest at the same time. In today’s society there are various definitions of modesty, and what some people consider acceptable would be offensive to someone else. However, when you wear an outfit that leaves little to the imagination, don’t be surprised when people stare or make comments. After all, when you dress for attention, that’s exactly what you’ll receive, and it may not always be positive!

The Snuggie Cult

As someone who sews, quilts, and embroiders, I must say that the fascination with the Snuggie blanket boggles my mind! It’s a piece of fleece that’s been sewn in a couple of places to give it sleeves. This is extremely frustrating for me, because I take pride in my work and pay attention to detail, yet I do little more than break even when I sell my blankets on eBay. People are willing to pay an average price of $19.99 for a piece of fleece that comes in an assortment of  less than attractive colors, yet they complain about the price of handcrafted pieces that will last much longer than a  Snuggie. I just don’t understand this concept.

 It seems to have developed into some sort of cult. Over 20 million Snuggies have been sold as of December 2009. People bond over the fact that they own a Snuggie. There’s even a Facebook page called “The Snuggie Cult”. I also saw a reference to this blanket on an episode of iCarly, which is one of my children’s favorite shows on Nickelodeon. They used an oversized laundry bag and called it the “sack”. Perhaps I need to design a marketing strategy, or maybe it’s a matter of presenting your product at the right place at the right time.

The Ship of Life

The Ship of Life

Across the shore awaits a boat
Though seas are rough, it’s still
afloat

Raise the sails, held up by mast
Forget the troubles of distant
past

As wave crash down upon the deck
Steady the boat; not quite a
wreck

Tend the mast, and fix the scratch
light the lantern with one last
match

The storm will end, pull anchor
and rope.

look up to see the stars of hope.

~Jessica M. Balcom~

Adam Sandler Hanukkah Song Video

You don’t have to celebrate Hanukkah to appreciate the humor in this song. It’s become a classic song that has received millions of views on YouTube! I’m always amazed at the debates that are sparked on the comment section of YouTube videos that are supposed to be there to entertain people. If people don’t like a particular song, why do they take their time to find it on the internet just to leave a negative comment? I hope you enjoy this song as much as I do!

Favorite Potato Soup Recipe

Potato soup is the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. I combined ideas from several recipes, and this is now my family’s favorite soup. Even my children like it, and they don’t normally eat soup. This recipe uses organic chicken broth instead of water and bullion cubes, so it contains no MSG. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients such as broccoli, turkey, or whatever you like! Enjoy!

Ingredients:
5-6 large potatoes, cubed
1 large red onion, diced
3 tablespoons parsley
2 tablespoons cilantro
3 cups organic chicken broth
1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
1/4 cup flour

shredded cheese (optional)
 
Crock Pot Directions:

1. Place everything but the milk and flour in the crock pot and cook on low all day.

2. 30 minutes to one hour before serving, stir together the flour and evaporated milk until smooth, then add to soup.

3. After the soup starts to thicken slightly, it is ready to serve.

Stove Top Directions:

1. Boil potato and onion until tender, then simmer the rest of the ingredients on medium heat until thickened.

2. Garnish with shredded cheddar cheese (optional).

Breathe Easy

Breathe Easy

•Works against the secretions that cause breathing problems
•Nutritionally supports your body regarding nasal congestion, sneezing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing
•Ideal for allergy, cold and flu sufferers
•Goes to work quickly

Product Description

Breathe easier and sleep better with our doctor-formulated solution

Virtually everyone has breathing difficulties like nasal congestion, sneezing, wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing and nasal discharge at one time or another. These same problems can be aggravated by allergies, colds, flu, or asthma and even have a greater impact on your health. TriVita’s Breathe Easy Formula focuses on the secretions that cause breathing difficulties, working quickly for fast relief.

Supporting Information

•The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI) reports that 80% of patients with seasonal allergies also experience sleep problems leading to fatigue, loss of concentration, and poor job performance both at school and work.
•According to the AAAAI, if allergies are not brought under control and kept under control, at least 30% of cases will go on to develop allergic asthma.

For more information, or to order Breathe Easy, visit: Trivita.com

You Don’t Know Where That’s Been!

mythbusters “Don’t put that money in your mouth, you don’t know where it’s been!” I cringe every time I see someone put money in their mouth to hold it while they dig through their bags or purse.  People always say that money is one of the dirtiest things you come in contact with throughout the day, and Mythbusters put it to the test. It didn’t rank number one, but after completing a series of three tests, here are the final results.

1.kitchen sponge (most dirty)
2.money
3.computer keyboard
4.toilet seat
5.light switch (least dirty)

Just Because You’re You