tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22116072095724009992024-03-12T20:07:42.925-07:00Mommies and Beyond TooShannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-60272297053883469852015-08-24T10:55:00.001-07:002015-08-24T10:55:49.054-07:00I Lost What weight loss Calculator powered by ViSalus™<a href="http://ilostwhat.com/#.VdtaWn6FCuo.blogger">I Lost What weight loss Calculator powered by ViSalus™</a>Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-2661699358873272232015-06-09T14:26:00.000-07:002015-06-09T14:42:33.549-07:00I Have a Secret It Is DirtyI have a secret. There are things that we are not supposed to talk about in mixed company or inappropriate places. We all know that you should not talk about religion or politics. However, there is one subject, one word so dirty that is forbidden. We do not discuss with the neighbors, the coworkers or even the congregation. The dirty word is: Money. <br />
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There are things that we just do not discuss. We don't share about our financial health. Money is said to be " the root of all evil"(1 Timothy 6:10, KJV,) The fact is that we all are affected by it. We encounter it on a daily basis. Yet, it is taboo to discuss it. We go to work for it, we spend it, save it, share it, wish for it, gamble for it and so much more. Yet, it is such a taboo subject. It is all good and fine to talk about business. We can talk about stocks. We can talk about many aspects of money. Many of us are slaves to it. We quest it. We want it. We are judged by it. We judge by it. We exchange our time for it.It can open and close doors but we can't talk about it. <br />
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Growing up, it was clear that we were a regular family. Regular meaning that we had one or two parents that worked.We went to the grocery store and paid the bills. There was an ebb and flow with money. We were middle class. We were the working class. We were just like most everyone else that we knew. There were the few that we knew that were well off. hey took fancy vacations and lived in big houses. This was not us. Our parents worked and they worked hard. They both worked hard. One became a wife and mother just before completing high school and the other college educated. We learned that you had to work for what you want in life. We had parents that focused on education. Education eventually leads to a good job. <br />
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While a student, we did not learn about credit, credit cards, credit ratings, bank accounts or saving money. Money was not really something that was discussed. We knew that everything cost money. Bills had to be paid. It just was what it was. During my senior year of high school, I opened my first checking account. Hello financial freedom. NO, it was closer to hello, a bank account does not work like that. Checks can and do bounce. I learned a hard lesson and fast. Fast forward and debit cards became all the rage. Guess what? You can really rack up some debt with your bank account for going over your balance. <br />
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I have been trying really hard to teach my children about finances. The importance of credit. (Fortunately, I do not have credit card debt.)The importance of building and protecting credit. I have armed my children with tools. We have had in depth discussions with our new high school graduate about finances. We have focused on avoiding entering adulthood with a ton of debt from student loans. We have made a college choice based upon the bottom line ( we did account for the important aspects as well that were not financial.) We have stretched the college dollar by matching the price of the school along with room, board and scholarships. Thank goodness she is a great student and earned several scholarships to help to pay for college. We have studied how to build credit and avoid being a target of lenders all too eager to give a teenager a credit card. We hope that these discussions and options will arm her to have a stable and productive future. During a school ceremony for seniors, the principal of the school encouraged parents to give a tip for the future to their child. My tip was the very simple comment: "learn how to save." <br />
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While we are discussing this taboo subject of money ( Gasp, I said the dirty word) I would like to share my savings with you. My accounts all added together have a whopping balance of 23 cents. Yes, that is how much I have saved. This is a real issue. That is another discussion entirely. I just wanted to overall say, we do not talk about money but yet it has such a presence in our lives. Why be ashamed of how little that you have or gloat about how much that you have?<br />
Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-7125081299509295482015-04-15T06:06:00.000-07:002015-06-09T14:32:15.875-07:00Alternative Income Generators and Hustles I love to learn about the unusual ways that people make money. I am intrigued by the ways that people can make money. Growing up, the future was all about the American Dream. Go to college, get a good job, buy a home and have a family. It all sounds good right? Until you realize that the college degree comes with a hefty price tag, the good job is hard to find, you might as well have immaculate credit to buy that home and well it just goes on and on from there. These days, the internet has opened a whole new world of possibilities. Colleges degrees have evolved and continue to change on a daily basis. What was relevant when you began your freshman college year may be ancient in comparison to the current technology or financial environment. People are evolving too. Families are exploring the country and even the world while completing their education on the road. Advancement in technology and education have changed by leaps and bounds. A degree or career that one may plan to obtain, may be obsolete by the time one is ready for the dream to become true. A high percentage of young children will find that many of today’s jobs will not exist when they are grown. The majority of careers for the younger generation have not even been created yet. I find this all to be very interesting. I am most intrigued by entrepreneurship and small business. I love how the internet has changed business. I believe in supporting small business and ingenuity. I find it interesting to learn how others invest in their futures and create passive income. Entrepreneurship and side jobs have the ability to generate income and to create a flexible lifestyle. It is not easy to conform to the American Dream Job of working 9-5 or a combination of other hours. Unfortunately, life does not fit into the 9-5 style of thinking. A regular schedule at a traditional job is not very flexible. I am fascinated by entrepreneurship and small business. I find it to be captivating to learn about how other people think out-of-the box to create their own stream of income. I have recently read many articles about how a variety of individuals from all walks of life earn extra income or hustle if you will. I have read about anything from dog walking to highly unusual side jobs. For instance, there are several recent articles about a lady that makes a handsome living by streaming an internet show of herself eating large meals. I also read about a college student that would sell dirty socks worn by men on EBay. From the mowing of lawns to freelance writing and everything and apparently anything in-between, side money can be made. I am personally making a little extra money by simply reading email and performing short task through both Inbox Dollars and Send Savings websites. I am freelance writing, writing content for other websites, and providing virtual assistant services. I sell a little on EBay and on Etsy. I have most recently joined Swap.com to make extra money with items that we are no longer using. I am making extra money but near enough. I would like to learn additional ways that I can make side money. How do you make extra money? What is the strangest way that you have heard about people making money? Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-33939452136091082122015-04-07T06:48:00.004-07:002015-04-07T07:18:24.953-07:00Walmart Price Catcher Review and Secret<div class="ecxMsoNormal">
The Walmart Price Checker App allows shoppers to compare their shopping trip with competitors prices. The App allows you to scan the bar code of your purchase receipt. The app will compare the price of each product with that of area stores. If the app does find that your Walmart purchase was more in price, the app will add the difference to your in-app account. Once you are ready, you may visit the Walmart customer service desk to redeem the money that you have earned for a store gift card. I believe that this is a great way to save money. Every little penny eventually adds up to a dollar and so on.</div>
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I have been shopping at Walmart and utilizing the policy in place for saving money with comparison shopping. I would take my local grocery store sales flyer to Walmart. I would show the cashier my flyer and then Walmart would honor the lower price. I love that this was an option when grocery shopping. Especially when they would honor a bogo product. (BOGO= Buy One get one Free!) I will tell you that Walmart has seen a great deal of my grocery shopping budget simply by honoring this price comparison shopping and when available, BOGO shopping. </div>
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I packed up two local store flyers and set out to go to Walmart to do the shopping. I took my time and made sure to take advantage of any sells that I could possibly find including those highly sought after BOGO deals. With a large family, those BOGO deals are valuable! I reached the cash register to check out. I had everything separated for the order. I quickly learned:</div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Walmart is NO longer honoring coupons from my local store- I am not pleased even though I lost only .55 on this transaction. (Hey that’s over half a dollar.)</div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>The BOGO deals are no longer being honored as well. In fact, forget the local flyers all together.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>I was informed that Florida is a state that was used as an experiment with the price match with local competitors. I wonder if that is true?</div>
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I shortly learned that the Walmart Price Catcher App would clearly locate the savings in price for both my coupon and my BOGO deals. I asked the cashier several times if he was indeed sure that this would be honored on the app. He informed me himself and verified twice with my question that Yes, the Price Catcher would indeed catch the deals. I went ahead and purchased all of my BOGO and price comparison shopping to the tune of $186.00 and some odd change. I definitely had multiple purchases for items that we often use at the BOGO price match. Well, several days later, I received the deposit into my app account for a whole $10.00. </div>
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I must say that I am not pleased. I would not have purchased all of the items that I did had I known that the BOGO would not be honored as the cashier stated. I believe that Walmart needs to get their act together, Inform both their guest and their employees of the policies and when they are changed. I spent more than I would have Because even when asked, I was misinformed. I am not too happy with Walmart or the price catcher. I understand that the company made money and that I happily forked it over believing that I would be rewarded for doing so. I just believe that both customers and employees should be informed with updates.</div>
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On a lighter note, I do like the Price Catcher App itself. It is nice to effortlessly collect a little discount in the form of a gift card. I would just prefer clarification, Please and Thank-You!</div>
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Please Note: This is my own opinion. I was not compensated in any way to write a review or promotion of the Walmart Price Catcher App. This is merely an expression of my own feelings towards employees without knowledge of their position, the store’s misguidance of the savings that they offer and my being upset that I feel that I was cheated out of savings<br />
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Speaking of money, I have been earning a little extra income by simply reading and clicking on email. The best part is that it is free to join! </div><a href="http://www.sendearnings.com/?r=ref5723832">
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Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-66809397415891155392015-02-10T16:27:00.000-08:002015-02-10T16:27:15.040-08:00Bank With The Disney Vacation Account<div class="ecxMsoNormal">
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Disney has introduced an exceptional plan to save for a Walt Disney themed vacation. Disney guest may open a complimentary account to help save up for a wonderful vacation. The Disney Vacation account is a new program that allows guest to estimate the cost of a desired Disney vacation and save to turn that dream into a reality. The Disney Vacation Account webpage will allow you to;</div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> - </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>choose your vacation destination. In my family’s case, our dream vacation is a Disney Cruise!</div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> - </span></span></span>Estimate the cost of your vacation</div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> - </span></span></span>Set up a Goal Date for the date that you would like to have saved the proper amount of money for your vacation. Approximately two months prior to </div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> - </span></span></span>Set up a Goal Date for the date that you would like to have saved the proper amount of money for your vacation. Approximately two months prior to <u>your travel date.</u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> - </span></span></span>Learn more about booking your vacation</div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> - </span></span></span>Open the free account and the bonus is that it is maintenance and fee free</div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> - </span></span></span>Make a one-time contribution or create an ongoing payment from you debit/credit card.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> - </span></span></span>Teach you about how to use your Disney vacation savings</div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> - </span></span></span>Show you how to order a gift card with your account balance </div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> - </span></span></span>You can even earn FREE gift cards! </div>
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Read more about the Disney Vacation Account by visiting Disneyvacationaccount.disney.go.com</div>
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You may choose the destination that you would like to save up for including Walt Disney World, Disneyland, a Disney Cruise , vacations to Aulani in Hawaii and even go an on adventure with Adventures by Disney. There are many vacation packages that you may see and plan for with this Disney account!</div>
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This is a really fun and inventive way to prepare for your Disney vacation. I find it a fun way for the family to contribute to save for a vacation. You can even watch your vacation goals become a reality with the Huey, Dewy and Lewey graph that tracks your progress!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDz1MKfIe3xZYffXdoJPzuPpJnbdA4GC-NYsZLDTnlzHDpj0JBpq5dOD1vsNNBTMcW-HWMnOlqA_yH3HnBHwxjqLdNqVAmfqAQ4rNwG9rsSOVkXN_RJpM791nQok6rukhM4O_9qC5pomtk/s1600/ds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDz1MKfIe3xZYffXdoJPzuPpJnbdA4GC-NYsZLDTnlzHDpj0JBpq5dOD1vsNNBTMcW-HWMnOlqA_yH3HnBHwxjqLdNqVAmfqAQ4rNwG9rsSOVkXN_RJpM791nQok6rukhM4O_9qC5pomtk/s1600/ds.jpg" /></a></div>
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Yay! We are $15.00 closer to our dream vacation!</div>
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The Disney vacation account is a fun way to celebrate your Disney vacation and see the planning in action! Have fun and grow your Disney vacation account today!</div>
Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-75781969438605385152015-01-06T15:08:00.001-08:002015-01-06T15:08:50.047-08:00Cutting the Grocery Budget <p dir="ltr">I would like to learn more ways to save on our food budget while maximizing each dollar. I do not want to sacrifice the quality of the food either. I would like to coupon with each grocery store visit. I would love to learn how to successfully coupon. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Not to long ago, I read about an interesting way to save on the grocery bill. Many people believe that shopping at ethnic stores may save money. I took a look in a local store to compare prices will my normal grocery store. I was visiting the store to purchase a small bag of pinto beans. I did find a one pound bag of dry beans for roughly 30 cents cheaper than the regular grocery store. </p>
<p dir="ltr">This evening, I decided to make chicken soup for dinner tomorrow. Half of our family has been sick. I thought between the illness and the first day back to regular work schedules and school, a pot of soup would be a perfect dinner idea. While running errands, we made a stop at a Dollar Tree. I stumbled upon egg noodles and frozen corn. A family favorite is a Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken, corn and noodle soup. My parents have made the soup since I was a child. It is literally the mentioned ingredients. We add onion, garlic, parsley and so forth. It is a hearty chicken based soup. We normally boil a whole chicken, cool and debone. I decided tonight,  based upon feeling really sick and my work schedule,  I will make the soup in the crock pot and with a chicken breast. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I planned to head over to Walmart with my grocery store flyer to pick up several buy one get one free sales at a lower price. However, on the way, I remembered the ethnic store. I made a stop hoping to find a reasonably priced chicken breast. </p>
<p dir="ltr">To my surprise, I found that chicken breast. I managed to pick up the breast for just over $3.00. I also found a large package of the boneless skinless chicken breast and hamburger. All for $13.00 and change. I found a five pound bag of rice for under  $4.00. I ended up getting all of my shopping trip for $30.71. I was truly surprised and shocked. The grocery store would have charged over $15.00 for the larger package of chicken itself. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I would definitely agree that shopping at an ethnic grocery store can save money. We will get at least four meals out of the meat alone. In all, I purchased:</p>
<p dir="ltr">2 packages boneless skinless chicken breast <br>
1 package of hamburger <br>
5 ibs. Rice<br>
1 package yellow rice<br>
1 ib. Dry pinto beans<br>
2 small packages of noodles <br>
3 packages of spices <br>
Fresh Garlic <br>
1 package of cookies for snack<br>
Dried Herbal <u>tea</u><br><br></p>
<p dir="ltr">This was an excellent shopping trip!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8YHF74-QUXEeenpITpO9v6PW8AUSh9k5ssUzWwV2lJ9q2AJdNl8x5Ji-XQn8oSLPOeR_2fBF37SXPZQuJqDBYgVW85y0eQNAbdQ0ehpcIlJmatJWJHMT5aGBAMDapzC9jPApAMalrDCW/s1600/20150104_195057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8YHF74-QUXEeenpITpO9v6PW8AUSh9k5ssUzWwV2lJ9q2AJdNl8x5Ji-XQn8oSLPOeR_2fBF37SXPZQuJqDBYgVW85y0eQNAbdQ0ehpcIlJmatJWJHMT5aGBAMDapzC9jPApAMalrDCW/s640/20150104_195057.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX2Jn5RwhhXu_huRDp75G7dunH2JVT0oRbxhI_XLHIBa2AZluV6W7uMrIX9DtP1afc-xnLMJ37fLgoh83T5bdtyYUeTHLwCQDoZm-v2zRyuy7qoWxZs1hYu9I1Mz1mrUnGgyTyDlsj-y2t/s1600/20150104_195050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX2Jn5RwhhXu_huRDp75G7dunH2JVT0oRbxhI_XLHIBa2AZluV6W7uMrIX9DtP1afc-xnLMJ37fLgoh83T5bdtyYUeTHLwCQDoZm-v2zRyuy7qoWxZs1hYu9I1Mz1mrUnGgyTyDlsj-y2t/s640/20150104_195050.jpg"> </a> </div>Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-70729038643885509692015-01-06T15:07:00.001-08:002015-01-06T15:07:29.728-08:00We are a 2015 College Family <p dir="ltr">We are about to become a College family!  I am the only member of my family to have ever attended college. My Mr. is an educated gentleman. This year we become a family of college students. I am a returning student,  Yay me! I just love school! I am proud to announce that Miss.Z, will begin her college career next week!  Yay Miss.Z! In the fall Miss.J. will become the first of our family to go away to college. She is exploring the possibilities of dorm life. We are proud and excited for our young ladies to start the journey of their college careers! </p>
<p dir="ltr">This spring,  I hope to travel to a college of interest with Miss.J. and Miss.S, our 2016 graduate. I would be ecstatic for the girls to attend the same college. It would be incredible for all three of our older girls to go to college together!  </p>
<p dir="ltr">Today, we received the news of Julia's Third college acceptance! We are three and three! Oh yeah!</p>
<p dir="ltr">I am so happy that Miss.Z, will be starting school next week. She will have the privilege of attending her first semester classes with her mom. I think it will be an interesting experience for the mother and daughter team! Yay ladies! </p>
<p dir="ltr">I hope that our ladies will be influence and encourage our younger girls to work hard in their new and upcoming high school years. Not to mention our little man! I hope that when he reaches the same time in his life that he five college graduates to be role models for him. For now, let's get through the first grade! </p>
<p dir="ltr">Let's do this ladies!</p>
<p dir="ltr">Congratulations to all of the college families out there! </p>
Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-55829351358376941322015-01-06T15:00:00.001-08:002015-01-06T15:00:46.373-08:002015 Physical Challenge <p dir="ltr">I have decided to challenge myself with a physical challenge. I would really like to improve my health from the inside out. I need to get healthier and lose weight. I am overweight and I am not talking about a few pounds. I am at a very unhealthy weight. I desperately need to strengthen my body. I have planned to purchase myself a FitBit at tax time. </p>
<p dir="ltr">A few days ago,  I stumbled upon a QVC show featuring a FitBit. I learned a lot more about it. The next morning, I was telling my Mr. about the show, the app and all about the FitBit. Little did I know,  that he had ordered one for me for a Christmas gift. Later the same day, my FitBit arrived!  Boy was a surprised!  Talk about great timing. I am really fired up about getting started. </p>
<p dir="ltr">We charged my FitBit and I wore it for a short time before bed. I spent the next day really focused on watching those numbers rise. Unfortunately,  I also have the flu. I really do not feel up to par. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I found that the goal that automatically comes with the FitBit device is that of 10,000 steps per day. I was surprised because I thought the number of steps that should be taken was 2,000 steps. Wow was I wrong. </p>
<p dir="ltr">So, according to my daughter, about 2,000 steps equal a mile. Dependent upon a variety of factors, a mile may be up to 2,500 I think but may be wrong. So, if 2,000 steps is a mile per say, then the goal is 5 miles per day to walk. Approximately 35 miles a week, 140 miles a month for a total of 1,680 miles for a year of reaching the daily goal. That is a lot of miles. That is a lot of miles for being out of shape and overweight. </p>
<p dir="ltr">To be honest the number of miles for a year based upon the daily goal is a lot of miles. I definitely believe that this is a big challenge for me. Although I feel that this in itself is a challenge perhaps I should make a higher goal. I really want this to be a year of better health and weight loss for me. I need for it to be a better year for me. </p>
<p dir="ltr">So this being said, if I were to reach the goal of 1,680 miles, I would be really proud and excited. I know I will have to push myself to reach this goal. So, to push the limit, my goal is going to be to walk 3,000 miles between the night of January 2, 2015 to exactly one year later January 2, 2016.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I will keep you up-to-date with my progress including my weight loss. I am going to add a goal tracker on the blog. </p>
<p dir="ltr"><b>THE GOAL IS 3,000 </b><u><b>MILES</b></u></p>
Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-46947367388205821922015-01-06T14:58:00.003-08:002015-01-06T14:58:59.700-08:00Our Financial Housing Issue <p dir="ltr">With the start of the New Year, I would like to work on our budget, financial situation and debt. Since we have moved across the country, financial challenges have defeated us. I found myself in the worst financial health of my adulthood. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I want to explore ways to assist my family with improving our finances. I have been reading about ways to cut corners and save when and where possible. Our finances have improved but our bills have soared. Similar to many Americans, we are living week to week. Unfortunately, we cannot control many issues that affect our flow of income. We are down to the bare necessities. We live in an area where rent is extremely high. This is a huge issue in our lives. We can afford a mortgage but are challenged with having the ability to qualify to buy a home. This is one major issue that we struggle with daily. I am thinking out of the box and searching for a solution. We do not have anyone that could cosign or assist with the housing issue. We moved into our current home early 2014. Between first and last months rent and deposits, it was nearly $4,000 just to get moved in. We definitely need to decrease our monthly rent.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Would anyone like to Donate a monetary gift, a home or solution? </p>
<p dir="ltr">Where do we go from here?</p>
<p dir="ltr">I am reading about great ideas from financial magazines, blogs and similar. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I hope to spend the new year working on credit scores, debt and a solution to the housing problem. </p>
Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-1667742009751709922015-01-06T14:58:00.001-08:002015-01-06T14:58:45.495-08:00Happy New Year 2015<p dir="ltr">Wishing everyone a wonderfully Happy New Year!</p>
Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-61476991092318719942014-12-16T06:07:00.001-08:002014-12-16T06:07:28.187-08:00Where Does the Time Go?<p dir="ltr">I've been so busy with work and home life that I've neglected my blog lately. I've really grown to enjoy the work that I am doing. I'm enjoying learning about the company and the internal business. I've been growing into my position in the office. I've recently received a promotion. Everyone begins in our department as a part time employee. Believe me, I was more than happy to be only part time. However, I've been working additional hours to catch up on bills, the holidays and to learn more about working in the website department in my office. I really enjoy working with the online system and growing in knowledge. I decided to apply for an upcoming full time position to have access to the benefits offered by the business. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I have been working towards growing my business knowledge. I have completed the course to become a notary. I am also a returning student to complete my college degree beginning in January. I'm very excited about school. I've also applied for a temporary and part time position with an educational field. I plan to work at the educational position a few days a month while maintaining my regular full time job . I'm always interested in exploring educational and business growth. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I also plan to further develop my virtual assistant business. I currently accept freelance writing assignments and various small projects. I have completed small projects related to forum and blog commenting assignments, research and various personal assistant jobs. I'd like to offer additional services to build my business. I plan to offer a media kit upon request to share my services and contact information. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Feel free to pitch me!</p>
Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-84903726252883300462014-12-16T06:06:00.001-08:002014-12-16T06:06:54.170-08:00Congratulations College Acceptance Time<p dir="ltr">Congratulations to Miss.J.! She has received two college acceptance letters along with the news that each school has offered her an academic scholarship! The first school offered $19,0000 for the first year and the second school offered $20,000 renewable up to 4 times for a 4 year degree equalling a possible $80,000 scholarship!!! </p>
<p dir="ltr">I am incredibly proud of my daughter and wish her a bright happy future! <br>
Congratulations my dear!!!</p>
Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-73608738823806467812014-10-24T11:00:00.001-07:002014-10-24T11:00:39.136-07:00SwapoWeen 2014 What I Sent<p dir="ltr">I loved shopping for my swap partner, Mary. I also made a few craft projects including a miniature candy corn canvas wall hanging, a colorful yarn spider web in an embroidery hoop and a Halloween rosette. I hand sewed the rosette including adding a little embroidery, buttons, ribbons,mesh ribbon along with both tacky and hot glue.I also picked out a few items for Mary's children. </p>
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The lovely Mary sent these Wonderful Pumpkin Autumn and Halloween delights! She and a friend even created this beautiful kitchen towel and set of pot holders. They really did a nice job! We loved our Halloween package! Thank you Mary!</p>
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Wall art weaves the color scheme of a space and creates a mood in the environment. Consider for instance the decor movement in children's bedrooms throughout Australia. The Internet and publications are adorned with the adorable decor popular in home decor for children. Teepees, garland, yellow Lego head storage containers and black and white accessories to name a few are enormously featured decor ideas. A second trend is the collage appeal of wall art displays. A modge podge of items are grouped together in a space to create a cluttered often abstract design in a space. The collage often features canvas art in a variety of sizes and styles. The canvas art is then surrounded by mismatched items that may include word art, monogram letters, maps, pictures, frames with or without photos and anything else that one may fancy. The popular interior decorating magazines feature photos of such beautiful spaces that are often attached to a high price tag. </p>
<p dir="ltr">It is possible to avoid the high cost of purchasing art to decorate your home. You can create your own DIY faux Canvas Art. You will need a sheet of adhesive foam . The foam can be purchased at a local craft store. You will also need fabric, scissors, a glue gun and glue sticks. The foam cost around eight dollars for two sheets. It is available in a variety of sizes and prices. When it comes to the fabric be sure to choose a fabric that will help create the look that you would like in your space. Consider the color scheme of the space. Are you going to use the fabric print to create a flow of a particular color or colors? Would you like to add a pop of color or flare to a collage style wall of art? Are you creating a masterpiece for the baby's nursery? I chose a print that was in my fabric stash. I purchased the fabric on clearance when the local Joanne's Fabric and Craft store changed out the home decor samples.For just a few dollars,  I purchased a few of the samples to sew into pillows.</p>
<p dir="ltr">To create the faux art:</p>
<p dir="ltr">Remember that foam can easily be broken. Proceed with caution to avoid smashing or breaking the foam. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Cut the fabric to a length where it will stretch across the foam and have the ability to be stretched around the sides of the foam.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Remove the protective sheet from the foam to expose the adhesive. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Place the fabric onto the adhesive. Make sure to stretch the fabric to avoid bunching. Stretching the create a flat surface that will appear canvas like when completed. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Wrap the fabric around the sides of the foam. The foam that I used measured an inch and a half thick. Pull the fabric tightly towards the back.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Make sure the fabric has been pulled as tight as possible. Apply pressure to the surface of the foam and fabric to attach the fabric to the adhesive. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Once the fabric is completely in place, cut off the excess fabric. Leave enough cloth to pull it tightly in place. Lastly,  use the glue gun and glue to permanently adhere the fabric to the back of the foam. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Once complete,  you will have a DIY Faux Canvas Art Print. You can hang the print easily with the foam backing. I created three of the foam pieces in different sizes and hung them in an arrangement at different heights. I chose to hang my faux canvas in the dining room. The dining room can be seen from both the living room and kitchen. Pillows sewn from the same fabric print will join the living room decor creating a flow of this color scheme within the two rooms.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeLqTwBKD1BPF3JWxAVEwrfpzhS6tPS3jZ-6s3Stj-t2OjSNk8SB0RI-2NtpRihLXKG6Ts9d_SSXEXKXNy09VQ1sxQ0WVSv8mE3M5LUAMOB2yEHFNFvW9uYHcMf8Tu53TmE74ka_90ysAZ/s1600/20141013_102900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeLqTwBKD1BPF3JWxAVEwrfpzhS6tPS3jZ-6s3Stj-t2OjSNk8SB0RI-2NtpRihLXKG6Ts9d_SSXEXKXNy09VQ1sxQ0WVSv8mE3M5LUAMOB2yEHFNFvW9uYHcMf8Tu53TmE74ka_90ysAZ/s640/20141013_102900.jpg"> </a> </div>Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-10999959353064392482014-10-06T11:12:00.001-07:002014-10-06T11:12:41.818-07:00Tiny House Dreaming <p dir="ltr">I'm dreaming of a Tiny House! I'm mesmerized by the Tiny House Movement and the financial freedom that can accompany the lifestyle. I recently had to drive to the Orlando area for a school function. I had heard of an rv park that accommodates a lady that owns and rents out her small home. I wanted to go and take a look at the home. Unfortunately, I just didn't have the time to go take a peek. </p>
<p dir="ltr">On the trip, I passed a modular home and mobile home dealer. To my surprise, from the interstate, I could see a Tiny House on display. When I reached my destination, I got online and searched for the dealership. I learned that the homes are popular tiny houses referred to as Vacation Cottages. I also found a location not too far from where I was traveling that both rented and sold tiny houses aka vacation cottages. I snuck over to catch a peek. Although the office of the vacation community could not show the available home without an appointment, I did get to look around and take a few pictures. The tiny houses were absolutely adorable! </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgspWseLTN_vMlFJT2m6lYNhvu_c70Np5ND-qNEJ_AXDlGAruMgOZHQ3kGFrCb4nRVuKtIa812OZBMaYL1Gbtle_jzz0lXUOBfQF7_q-KnYPlW9hf-n4RhIfTL-9tStYKipmwLBEnPVb9aX/s1600/20141006_072444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgspWseLTN_vMlFJT2m6lYNhvu_c70Np5ND-qNEJ_AXDlGAruMgOZHQ3kGFrCb4nRVuKtIa812OZBMaYL1Gbtle_jzz0lXUOBfQF7_q-KnYPlW9hf-n4RhIfTL-9tStYKipmwLBEnPVb9aX/s640/20141006_072444.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBBj4kpjs4F7Ayfb-esDlto4HiRB309VxEhMAguGNIAr2XBf5IugVd4wpTxSC5yiouOZNHLu7QYBLJe_0S91jgfLKuc268Uq-B3wQZ1rek6Q9g2H8J_ymz5-Smg0nvKmmYLDRaWuVSJdhg/s1600/20141006_072704.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBBj4kpjs4F7Ayfb-esDlto4HiRB309VxEhMAguGNIAr2XBf5IugVd4wpTxSC5yiouOZNHLu7QYBLJe_0S91jgfLKuc268Uq-B3wQZ1rek6Q9g2H8J_ymz5-Smg0nvKmmYLDRaWuVSJdhg/s640/20141006_072704.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiAjLng74rmaHosWeIHaGX-y18SvKN-iPgOMt4w7h0QdHRD2sYBZR_c6j7dmRA9uVwrP2sv2-TQGkRvqLJYKSAoosHnd3VYX808RiEuR3PSdpHFNDWQFSqDo2Nekm2ITvVoBg17gxhEvmR/s1600/20141006_072654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiAjLng74rmaHosWeIHaGX-y18SvKN-iPgOMt4w7h0QdHRD2sYBZR_c6j7dmRA9uVwrP2sv2-TQGkRvqLJYKSAoosHnd3VYX808RiEuR3PSdpHFNDWQFSqDo2Nekm2ITvVoBg17gxhEvmR/s640/20141006_072654.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvqXOyLtnPKah7MVeQO7gfprOKhBz_KKSilR1ruEsteGoxiGvRE6NUcxS-L5ih9VI1iKkE8DL-eZaFOQ471R4wbGqbm7EymP_PZvGpAPnnzdPgGUQ_0kFp8nTJ1u7r2dNoP6iM2740m8TJ/s1600/20141006_072643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvqXOyLtnPKah7MVeQO7gfprOKhBz_KKSilR1ruEsteGoxiGvRE6NUcxS-L5ih9VI1iKkE8DL-eZaFOQ471R4wbGqbm7EymP_PZvGpAPnnzdPgGUQ_0kFp8nTJ1u7r2dNoP6iM2740m8TJ/s640/20141006_072643.jpg"> </a> </div>Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-10018335663453381692014-10-06T10:15:00.000-07:002014-10-06T11:13:56.734-07:00Homecoming 2014A few of my ladies had the opportunity to attend the Homecoming dance. I really enjoyed shopping for dresses. Miss A. Shopped with my sister and Miss.J . shopped with the Dad and myself. Both of the girls had ideas of several styles of dresses that they were interested in and were headed towards jewel tones especially purples,blues and pinks.I was surprised when Miss.A came home with an animal print black and white dress . After shopping for several hours, we accidentally stumbled upon a wonderful deal on a nice dress. Surprisingly, it was also black and white.<br />
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The day of the dance, the Dad made an early dinner as the girls planned to bring along a friend. We planned the pick up an hour before the dance. So, we thought it would be easier to have dinner at home. (Prom they can dine out on the town.)<br />
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I had a lot of fun behind the camera and I snapped pictures and the three young ladies giggled.<br />
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<span id="goog_1073620058"></span><span id="goog_1073620059"></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-0ENY032MM6JQhB4T2fY8KveLQJdvhKYiEubXXDCRLbTYDGtvNzutxv2NM6boj3UIaWq92EwXZ0I2H_F0Y2RsDRQRWxa0XjxKs16Z7hlpIPkYCqN174dYPs1fBNxkPLOsKJTE7vgxe66r/s1600/20141004_144940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-0ENY032MM6JQhB4T2fY8KveLQJdvhKYiEubXXDCRLbTYDGtvNzutxv2NM6boj3UIaWq92EwXZ0I2H_F0Y2RsDRQRWxa0XjxKs16Z7hlpIPkYCqN174dYPs1fBNxkPLOsKJTE7vgxe66r/s640/20141004_144940.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLpfzLOtXQ08gixzdIuJ012BsN-q64ecuL6JRqDIA3NzrwS46NHCX7zfzqhYOHJ_FzrZygkJMPOz91_XASVQj2nKsmfETTwhb9cQ7kfONd1SQW0qG3kgWMEJAeeH7v_e0bFEUMhORcofiu/s1600/20141004_144327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLpfzLOtXQ08gixzdIuJ012BsN-q64ecuL6JRqDIA3NzrwS46NHCX7zfzqhYOHJ_FzrZygkJMPOz91_XASVQj2nKsmfETTwhb9cQ7kfONd1SQW0qG3kgWMEJAeeH7v_e0bFEUMhORcofiu/s640/20141004_144327.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid8fiWC0o2uyt84meYldds2cEMujpnyayEsJtHBFyGMBWTZg-i_h3Auf5bcSjkGvczTWtqfaD2geWdJWsGUdTim_xEV-MlLrsTwA2kBAycu0mYuZxbiLN6MGy77dRwE78iMRJvQDjD_isH/s1600/20141004_145148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid8fiWC0o2uyt84meYldds2cEMujpnyayEsJtHBFyGMBWTZg-i_h3Auf5bcSjkGvczTWtqfaD2geWdJWsGUdTim_xEV-MlLrsTwA2kBAycu0mYuZxbiLN6MGy77dRwE78iMRJvQDjD_isH/s640/20141004_145148.jpg"> </a> </div>Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-3799530858965840222014-10-05T15:46:00.000-07:002014-10-05T15:46:19.575-07:00Week Four A New PlanWeek three was so busy. I didn't even have the opportunity to plan. Now as for week four:<br />
I need to reassess the situation. I know that there are many things that I have to do. I'll begin by making somewhat of a to-do list.<br />
<br />
Work:<br />
<br />
- Go to work. It may sound funny but it's an issue as I work my way through the probation period.<br />
-Leave a change of clothing at work.<br />
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Work at Home:<br />
<br />
-Write 20 blog post in the month of October.<br />
-Read the Blogelina ebook.<br />
-Tweek my Freelance Profile.<br />
-Work on my Media Kit<br />
-Choose a new domain name.<br />
-Consult with Blogelina to learn if Mommies and Beyond dot com can be restored on a new domain, fingers crossed.<br />
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Home:<br />
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-Create a homework schedule for the little Mr.<br />
-Find our Halloween Pirate Skeleton Wall Decal.<br />
-Work on an organization project in the little Mr. Room<br />
-Clean Master Bath<br />
-Clip dog nails.<br />
-Organize Coupons<br />
-Begin Reorganization of my craft supplies and collect donations for a community service project.<br />
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Hobby:<br />
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-Add the final touch on my SwapoWeen Halloween Blog Swap Project.<br />
-Work on My Ghouls, Ghost and Glamor Girls Swap.<br />
-Enter 25 Giveaways<br />
-Find ideas for my swap partners<br />
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Health:<br />
-Swim 2 times. I swam today too!<br />
-Drink More Water<br />
-Eat Avocados a few times this week.<br />
-Plan Either Paleo or South Beach Diet Menu ideas.<br />
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*Research Tiny House Movement.<br />
-Dream about Tiny House Freedom<br />
-Begin my Tiny House Plan and Project.<br />
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<br />Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-50135211864793273072014-10-05T14:17:00.000-07:002014-10-05T14:17:22.026-07:00Week Two Plan Recap<br />
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School:<br />
☆ I completed the order forms for Miss.J's Graduation including cap and gown and the class ring. Sent in the deposit for the orders.<br />
☆Miss.J. and I sat down to discuss the next choice of college for her to apply to attend. It turns out that she completed the application that very morning! Yay, the girl is on top of it!<br />
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× I didn't complete the volunteer application.<br />
× I worked an 11 hour shift the day prior to the community fundraiser. My family quietly left the house to handle the event responsibilities allowing me to sleep in until they woke me up at 8:34 a.m.<br />
× TBA, the boy's teacher did not contact me for a conference. So, this will be rescheduled.<br />
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Home:<br />
☆I remembered to purchase a Sunday newspaper. I really want to become more involved with couponing.<br />
☆Purchased Snacks for the children.<br />
☆I organized the pantry<br />
☆I Cleaned the refrigerator.<br />
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That's all. I was home very little this week . Did I mention that my job is supposed to be part time? I would have to disagree. 10 and 11 hour days do not equal part time in my book.<br />
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Financial:<br />
☆I sent in the payment for Miss.J's school trip.<br />
☆I sent in the payment for Graduation and class ring.<br />
☆Ipaid the rent.<br />
☆I called about 401K plans . Learned that pt no longer qualifies for the program.<br />
☆Found out about purchasing a school gym uniform for Miss.A.<br />
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Personal :<br />
☆Hair was trimmed.<br />
☆Found my Bag.<br />
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Work:<br />
☆Took in a pantry meal of soup.<br />
Went to work<br />
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Work at Home:<br />
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☆Wrote a few blog post.<br />
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Hobby:<br />
☆ Entered 20 giveaways and Sweepstakes.<br />
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<br />Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-37214951350304848742014-10-02T19:33:00.000-07:002014-10-06T11:16:49.136-07:00Fall Traditions Homecoming StyleWe are coming up on fun fall traditions! It is my favorite time of the year! Pumpkins, falling leaves, apple cider, Halloween and kick off to the holiday season! It is such a fun time of the year!<br />
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Homecoming is just around the corner! This week our high school is celebrating by hosting a spirit week! Each day, the children may drees up with a fun theme. One day was Super hero day! When dropping the girls off at school, I saw a handful of cute costumes.<br />
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Over the weekend, we picked up a shirt for Miss.J and early in the week, We picked up one for Miss.A. Miss A. wanted to match her sister by staying in the same theme. So, meet Batman and Robin! (Really Bat girl )<br />
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So this morning, the girls wanted to dress up 80 style at the last minute. So we threw together some bright colors, bracelets and bandanas to note a few. So the fun of the fall<br />
and homecoming season is upon us.<br />
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<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQdCuDs5Qt63dKoxvHTE1_eOxxiIovy8082-OGtRaCECYhmP8qKRrM-m8fKMkP1Wdxf3EDFI_qWKXkOI-VmFYpsVxjip2ZCu5UbVp52_WNaXQDp-xFpsCs8Uw-ntFYBCp1_Rd1uPkPhVGg/s1600/GetInline-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQdCuDs5Qt63dKoxvHTE1_eOxxiIovy8082-OGtRaCECYhmP8qKRrM-m8fKMkP1Wdxf3EDFI_qWKXkOI-VmFYpsVxjip2ZCu5UbVp52_WNaXQDp-xFpsCs8Uw-ntFYBCp1_Rd1uPkPhVGg/s640/GetInline-1.jpeg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvpZsVnXPrXX_EpbWdknHk5gOc3QowRTot3surFBNC3ln1SXv3OTvZIUC60nHhKntKxV4KTm7veIokY7QfT9CsF3tALjMEdFRILzkdhGIJjhZjZVON_bJ7O1cLhlboU-4WPXUoVimrgz7v/s1600/GetInline.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvpZsVnXPrXX_EpbWdknHk5gOc3QowRTot3surFBNC3ln1SXv3OTvZIUC60nHhKntKxV4KTm7veIokY7QfT9CsF3tALjMEdFRILzkdhGIJjhZjZVON_bJ7O1cLhlboU-4WPXUoVimrgz7v/s640/GetInline.jpeg"> </a> </div>Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-74964554832551697642014-10-02T11:55:00.000-07:002014-10-02T11:55:03.881-07:00Ebola Epidemic Reaches The United States The first case of the Ebola plague in the United States has been officially confirmed. The gentleman that contracted the virus was visiting his family in Dallas, Texas. The patient is hospitalized in quarantine. His partner and family including children have been ordered to remain in their apartment home. The emergency responders that transported the man to the hospital have also been quarantined.<br />
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I believe that the ball has been dropped on the case . The man visited the emergency room only to be sent home with antibiotics and pain medication. Once he became increasingly ill,he was taken to the hospital by ambulance. In addition, it's been claimed that the hospital was informed several times that Thomas Eric Duncan had traveled from Liberia. It was confirmed when hospital staff learned that he did not have a social security number. So essentially, the hospital staff overlooked the symptoms of the virus, overlooked the man's citizenship and has probably exposed hundreds to the Ebola virus.<br />
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Take a step back, the Liberia government and even airlines share liability in the spread of the disease. This man was permitted to leave an infected region after exposure to a deadly virus. No only had he helped an ill pregnant lady with Ebola by carrying her into a hospital (which turned her away due to the illness) but the Liberian government has announced that he was caring for and possibly residing with an ill individual with Ebola.<br />
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The man was then permitted to leave the country including boarding three airplanes with two layovers.He traveled from Liberia to Belgium to Washington D.C. to Dallas, Texas. The ramifications are disastrous.In addition, several children were exposed in the Dallas home to the virus. The children then attended four Dallas schools for four days before the virus was identified. This is terrifying.<br />
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I'm truly frightened for the families of the exposed children, his family and all the people potentially exposed by this one confirmed case. I pray that all of these people and those around the world will be treated and cured of this horrible disease.<br />
<br />Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-87100420202933345732014-09-26T08:22:00.000-07:002014-09-26T08:38:30.879-07:00Frugal Tips Via Jill CataldoI was recently reading an article that a friend shared with me. A newspaper columnist <a href="http://www.jillcataldo.com/" target="_blank">Jill Cataldo</a> wrote in reference to saving money. Jill reached out to her readers to inquire about their money saving tips. Apparently, there was no shortage of ideas on how to cut corners.<br />
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I found the article to be interesting. Although a few of the ideas may be controversial. I learned a few frugal lessons that could very well pertain to my family. For instance, Jill suggest to take beverages along with you in the car to avoid overspending on drinks during your outting. I am definitely an individual that must have a drink on hand. I make this mistakes often. If the family is with me, the price definitely climbs. One of the ways that I've been trying to curb this appetite to wet my wistle is by keeping both a cup for cold drinks and hot beverages at work. Fortunately, in my office ice, water, coffee, hot tea and hot chocolate are complimentary and readily available. However, you must bring your own container to take advantage of the beverages available. In addition, there is an overpriced vending machine that has welcomed my hard earned dollars on more than one occasion. Each beverage ranges between $1.50 to $2.00 a piece. I have reduced my dependence on that wonderful modern vending machine. The machine even accepts credit and debit cards. The convenience surely is thickening someone's wallet. I would imagine that I'm saving at least 3 to 5 trips a week by not visiting the vending machine. I'd say I'm saving a minimum of five dollars a week by having the convenience of my own personal cups. Now to avoid the gas station.<br />
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I completely agree with her idea of only shopping online if the store is offering free shipping. I like to occasionally take advantage of online deals. There are a few exceptions. I believe in small business and Etsy.com. I would make an exception for Etsy, perhaps eBay. It just depends on the circumstance and where the money comes from. If I sell on eBay or Etsy, then I am more likely to be comfortable with paying for shipping.I generally stick to free shipping offers. I also like Amazon. You can purchase$35.00 of Amazon goods to qualify for free shipping. One year, I purchased Amazon Prime to benefit from the free shipping. It depends on the situation but overall, I rarely pay for shipping outside of eBay and Etsy.<br />
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Jill mentions taking advantage of the dollar store.I definitely agree with this.I understand that the Dollar Tree stores now accept coupons, That is a bonus too.<br />
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Jill suggest bringing home extra condiments from dining out, fast food and such. I won't throw away an extra ketchup or hot sauce package but I've never shopped for free condiments. I don't know if I would play along with this idea. Naturally, I won't waste leftover packets but I'm not quite an "extreme cheapskate." Then again, have you noticed the rising cost of mayonnaise? Hmm, perhaps I should contemplate this one. My children did once go through an eight pound container of ketchup. (and that was before Master K. was born. [Plus Miss.B. did share the remainder of the bottle with our German Sheppard, Sable, at that time. Sable had a large appetite, Lol. Imagine my surprise when I returned from the laundry room. Lol.] However, I must state that I wouldn't shop for condiments at a restaurant. Taking an abundance of condiments would be stealing. I will however bring home and save the extras given to me. I also know that others in my office save leftover condiments and share them with others by placing them in the break room.<br />
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Speaking of eight pounds of ketchup. Jill suggest avoiding the membership warehouse type stores. I'm not sure about this. I've heard that some people save money by purchasing in bulk. I imagine that it would be the impulse shopping that would be the issue. Debatable I guess.<br />
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<br />
Now for my personal preferences:<br />
<br />
Jill suggest turning off the air conditioner and heater.It is also recommend to only use window units. <b>Sorry, that's not happening in Florida. Certainly not for a lady with a thyroid condition constantly making me hot, the Florida heat and humidity and let's not even mention the hot flashes. </b>However, against my better judgment (Preference really) our air conditioner has been set at the same temperature for the last six months since our move. We are saving $200 a month by moving away from a horrible electric company. We are also saving energy by only using appliances during non peak hours at night. I'd still like to see this bill reduced. As far as window units, not all communities allow them. When ut cools off, I'm not against window fans. In the future I'd like to consider a portable air conditioner to see how that would compare.<br />
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Jill or perhaps her readers, suggest ordering only one meal for two people if dining out. I guess this would have to depend on the location, pricing, occasion and similar. If it is a special occasion I'd rather not. Dining out is an enjoyable outting. I do believe that there are ways to save but for me, it would have to be a case per case basis. I do agree that it would save money to eat at home.<br />
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There is a handful of suggestions in the article. You can read the original article on her website. I recommend taking a peek at it.<br />
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How do you save money? Any frugal ideas? Are any of you extreme cheapskates? I'd love to learn of your ideas and suggestions.<br />
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<br />Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-63215612653776908572014-09-25T06:07:00.000-07:002014-09-25T06:07:52.877-07:00A New Interest I love it when I stumble upon a new interest!<br />
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Olá amigos! Eu quero aprender a falar português.<br />
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Translation: Hello Friends! I want to learn how to speak Portugese. Earlier this week, I encountered an issue with a service that a client had ordered. I realized that I was not equipped to handle the language barrier. However, I wanted to ensure the best possible service to the client. I decided upon utilizing the Google Translate to try to email the client. Much to my surprise, the email was successful. The client contacted me and we are handling the issue and nipping a possible negative situation in the bud.<br />
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I was really excited about the possibility of completing this international business deal. It felt great to help the client. Over the last two days, it seems that I have had portugese clients. Over the telephone, my company partners with a translation service. I was able to successfully complete a transaction with a portugese client in Brazil.<br />
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I came home from work yesterday and was thinking about the portugese clients. I wanted to learn more about the portugese culture, language and history. I was not aware that portugese was a commonly spoken language in Brazil. I decided to read about the history of the language in Brazil. I had previously thought that Spanish was spoken in Brazil and perhaps the majority if not all of South America . Obviously I was wrong. I'm now interested in learning more about South American cultures including the portugese language and Brazil. I was even surprised to learn that there was originally a Royal Portuguese Family in Brazil.<br />
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I love finding new and intriguing interest. Although it is still a distance, every since I was a little girl, I have wanted to visit The Galapagos Islands. My favorite book shared animals from around the world such as Pigeons in Paris for instance and the Giant Galapagos Tortoise. Oh how I loved (love) Turtles. I would love to tour the Galapagos and make my way to Brazil. I'd love to visit and write about my experiences in Travel. Travel writing would be awesome. I have written about family travel as a freelance writer, It would be intriguing to write about Brazil and the Galapagos to name a few.<br />
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Anyway, I would like to learn portugese to help my clients at work and to enrich my life and knowledge as well.Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-47967152473447210642014-09-21T15:03:00.001-07:002014-09-21T15:11:15.437-07:00Weekly Plan Week TwoI'm happy about making a weekly plan. I think it helped me to know ahead of time that I wanted to do a few particular goals. I didn't complete everything on my list but no one is perfect right? So now for week two:<br />
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School:<br />
-Complete application for volunteer work.<br />
- Help Miss.J. with completing College application #2.<br />
-Telephone conference with the boys teacher.<br />
-Complete order for Graduation announcements, Cap and Gown and Class Ring for Miss.J.<br />
-Attend a Fundraiser community event.<br />
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Work:<br />
-Go to work.<br />
-Store a change of clothing in my locker.<br />
-Stash a lunch or snack pantry safe item in my locker.<br />
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Work At Home:<br />
-Write 5 blog post.<br />
-Update Freelance Profile<br />
-Work on Media Kit.<br />
-Work in helping my daughter with a side business idea that we would like to develop.<br />
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Home:<br />
-Get a newspaper on Sunday September 21, 2914<br />
-Organize Coupons<br />
-Get snacks for the children. We don't purchase many snacks but I like to try to keep some healthy items on hand with an occasional Happy snack.<br />
-Organize my son's dresser.<br />
-Clip doggy nails<br />
-Unpack and Decorate our Autumn and Halloween Decorations.<br />
-Clean out my sewing bag.<br />
-Donate Sewing and craft supplies to a volunteer group that I'm joining.<br />
-Remove the 5000 pound television that went out on us. This will be a 2 or 3 person project.<br />
-Organize the pantry.<br />
-Time again to clean out the refrigerator.<br />
-Work on meal planning for a grocery shopping.<br />
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Financial:<br />
-Send in payment for school trip for Miss.J.<br />
-Find out cost of Miss.A . school required gym uniform and/or pay for it.<br />
-Send in deposit for Miss.J . Graduation and Class Ring orders.<br />
-Complete rent issue resolution and payment.<br />
-Make the call to start company 401K plan and stock purchase options.<br />
-Apply for health insurance.<br />
-Gather car insurance quotes (either my DH or myself)<br />
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Personal:<br />
-Get a hair trim<br />
-Find my missing Thirty One bag to keep my change of clothing in for work.<br />
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Hobby:<br />
-Complete the Halloween mug rug.<br />
-Complete sewing portion of a Halloween Swap Project.<br />
-Enter 50 Giveaways and Sweepstakes<br />
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Wish me luck! Enjoy your week!<br />
<br />Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211607209572400999.post-58418783254962702712014-09-21T12:39:00.000-07:002014-09-21T12:43:07.544-07:00Week One Plan RecapWell I must say that I liked having a few goals to focus on this week. So it's time to see how week one stacked<br />
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SCHOOL:<br />
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☆Apply for a school Program that my daughter Miss.A. would like to join<br />
☆Pay Event $ for a meal for Miss.J during a school event.<br />
☆Send a Snack for event day for Miss.J.<br />
☆Pack a Bag for Mr.K for swimming lessons this week<br />
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Fail: We didn't Apply for for college #2 Between our schedules and Miss.J. catching a cold.<br />
Complete Volunteer Application for Background Check<br />
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WORK:<br />
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☆Go to work, it's been a challenge this week with health issues.<br />
☆Prepare Clothing in advance.<br />
☆Bring in a Coffee Cup & Cold Beverage Cup to keep in desk.<br />
☆Remember to turn in Doctors Note<br />
☆Get a locker<br />
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Fail: Leave a Change of Clothing in my work locker.<br />
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WORK AT HOME:<br />
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<strike>☆</strike>Wrote 4/5 Blog Post<br />
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Fail: Update Freelance Writing Profile<br />
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HOME:<br />
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☆Prepare and Lay out Son's School Clothes<br />
☆Reorganize the laundry room<br />
☆Begin a Menu/Grocery list for grocery shopping next week.<br />
☆Vacuum bedroom<br />
☆Wash blankets/Linens from the weekend.<br />
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Fail: 1/2 I didn't finish re-organizing my son's dresser . However, his laundry of course was washed as I do this on my day off of work. I did get the school clothing wrinkle free and hung up in the closet.<br />
I didn't Reorganize the pantry but it will only take a few minutes because it's basically in order . I'll do it soon.<br />
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FINANCIAL:<br />
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☆$5 for Miss.J. plus snack<br />
☆Plan debt repayment for a particular loan<br />
☆Write checks for a loan payment and ☆daughter's end of the month payment for school trip.<br />
☆Address, Stamp and label envelopes.<br />
☆ Update family calendar with new monthly bills and due dates.<br />
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Fail: Call the financial service through work to create an online account to begin 401K Plan with the company and stock purchase options.<br />
Rent issue causing a delay in proper payment. Working on meeting with payment person.<br />
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PERSONAL:<br />
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☆Make a dinner reservation for Miss.J for Graduation. It may be too early but it's worth a try. I did try but the restaurant was only taking reservations through March 2015. So, I also made reservations and plans for three other birthdays.<br />
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HOBBY:<br />
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1/2 complete.<br />
I did a little work on my first mug rug.<br />
I entereed about 30 giveaways out of the intended 50 Sweepstakes/Giveaways.<br />
I did begin working on the Halloween swap project for my partner. I also made a small halloween rag wreath.<br />
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Overall, it went pretty well. I didn't complete all of my intentional goals . However, I mostly feel alright about it . I'll add my incomplete list to this week's goals.<br />
<br />Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05114694331830707558noreply@blogger.com0