Informed Sharing

Will Y!Contributor Network Replace YouTube?

2011-09-06T12:59:00.001-04:00

In the interest of keeping you informed...sharing bits with you, if you will...

I thought I'd pop over and tell you about my brilliant NEW plan to take over the world...

No, wait. Wrong plan.

Never mind, forget I mentioned world domination, I'm still ironing out the creases in that plan.

Moving on (boy, aren't we cheeky today?)...

ANYway...

I've been thinking about this whole Google AdSense thing and the fact that I've lost my earning capability at YouTube.

You should know, right darn now: I LOVE MAKING YOUTUBE VIDEOS! Well, I love making videos, anyway.

Being able to integrate my AdSense with YouTube was allowing me the pleasure of continuing to do that. Which lasted, oh about, 3 weeks or so.

Read more about my Google AdSense Issues in this blog post!

So...what do I do now?

Stop making videos?

STOP sharing my CRAZY with the WORLD?

As if.

My friend Pabs and I were talking about it and SHE said, "Hey (dork...seriously...) why don't you upload your videos to Y!Contributor Network?"

And I replied, "Hmmm...how DO you carry all that brilliance around in your head?"

So here's the bottom line (finally, right?):

September will be a test run of video production at Y!CN. <-- (the link to my Y!CN profile!)
The bulk of my videos, including my new buzz cut, will be uploaded to Y!CN.
I will still post updates to YouTube, outlining weekly what I'm doing at Y!CN.

I honestly don't believe I will ever give up YouTube completely (well...at SOME point I may stop making those fabulously crazy vids...), but I do want to explore the video possibilities at Y!CN and see where it takes me.

And now you know.

Ha...did you seriously think I was done rambling?

Almost...

I'm going to need some help with this, my friends.

I'm hoping to get feedback from viewers about how this is all working as we travel through September. So, if you watch my videos at YouTube, great. If not, go here and check them out. Subscribe if you'd like (SWEET!!).

And stay tuned. At least one blog post per week will have the latest Y!CN videos within it, so you can be sure not to miss a single solitary second of crazy from me. How darn lucky are YOU?

Lastly...please comment, email, or holler out your window and let me know if watching at Y!CN works for you. I'm concerned about a couple of things in that regard (which I'll keep to myself for now) and will really appreciate the feedback.

Okay, NOW I'm outta here. For now. "See" you later in the week and have a FANTABULISTIC day, my friends!

Cheers,
San

PS: I TOLD you I was feeling a bit cheeky, didn't I? Hope the message didn't get lost in translation. Oh, and if YOU want to share your voice with the world, go check out Y!Contributor Network. Throughout my years of writing online, Y!CN has been a consistent pleasure to pen for!! :)

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My latest from YouTube:

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Dear "The Google Adsense Team"

2011-08-29T08:38:00.001-04:00

Dear "The Google Adsense Team",

On Friday August 12, 2011, you emailed me to inform me that ...hmmm wait, let me quote you directly...

"After reviewing our records, we've determined that your AdSense account

poses a risk of generating invalid activity."

Not long after receiving this email, I (most ineloquently and with copious tears) sent an appeal. I answered your "form letter" questions and hit SEND.

Not long after THAT, I received a generated response from you, stating that you had received my appeal and that I should now expect to sit on pins and needles until you reviewed my account. I'm sorry, paraphrasing is NOT my strong suit.

On Tuesday, August 16, 2011, I received another email from you, stating that you were reviewing my account with the additional information I provided but that I shouldn't get my hopes up because you couldn't guarantee reinstatement - more paraphrasing, slightly.

I replied (a bit more eloquently this time) with even more information and the hope that you would very plainly see that I had done nothing what. so. ever. wrong to warrant losing my Adsense account.

On Friday AUGUST 26, 2011 you replied and please, let me quote:

"Thank you for your appeal. We appreciate the additional information you've

provided, as well as your continued interest in the AdSense program.

However, after thoroughly re-reviewing your account data and taking your

feedback into consideration, our specialists have confirmed that we're

unable to reinstate your AdSense account."

Well doesn't that just bite the big one?

At that point I was ANGRY. I had done a bit of research about Google Adsense reinstatement and did not hold much hope for getting my account back. NOT because I had done anything wrong, however.

But because this is how Google Adsense tends to operate.

I had heard rumors throughout my year+ with Adsense...be careful, don't click ads, don't encourage others to click ads, don't look cross eyed at your computer screen, don't eat yellow snow...because you could...

for NO F*&%king reason, have your Google Asense account disabled.

I didn't believe the rumors. I certainly had no intention of breaking TOS. And I never did. Not once. Not once did I click my own ad, encourage anyone else to, or provide content that was not considered appropriate for Google to place ads on.

Beyond that, Google Adsense stated (in their email of disablement) that my account had...what did they say???

Oh, yah.

..."poses a risk of invalid click activity..."

Not that it had invalid clicks, that it poses a risk.

What the H E double hockey sticks?

Not only did they disable my account for a completely idiotic reason, I now believe they did NOT take the time to review my account properly.

I actually read somewhere in my research of this that it was best to email and request a HUMAN review.

Huh???

Here is what I believe:

The Google Adsense Team did not review my account carefully (as stated).
The Google Adsense Team is not entirely human.
Humans make mistakes AND SO DO COMPUTER PROGRAMS.

Here is the bottom line:

I did not knowingly break any of Google Adsense's TOS.
I did not provide any content that would encourage invalid clicking of ads.
I am no longer part of the Google Adsense program.
A year's worth of hard work, dedication to consistent quality, and following THEIR rules got me
ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.

It may surprise you to know that I'm not as upset/angry/thoroughly pissed off as I was on Friday morning after reading that they could not reinstate my account.

Because, to be quite honest...

I don't wish to work with/for/through a company that has such a backwards way of handling their clients. Oh, I know, it's Google, for cryin' out loud. They have no need to worry that I'M going to bring the Adsense program to a grinding halt and a re-evaluation of how it's done, simply with one blog post, a couple of videos, and some major irritation.

And that's okay. Carry on, Google Adsense.

I certainly plan to. I will continue blogging. I will continue making YouTube videos. And I will continue writing for Y!Contributor Network. I will not be returning to Triond.com or to WebAnswers, however I don't think they'll crash 'n' burn without me either.

Today is a new day. One without Google Adsense in it. But don't be sad, I'm not. I get to go on without fear that I made or may make in some future event, a mistake that will ruin everything.

According to their rules.

From now on, I'm just going to do it my way. (Which, oddly enough, still complies with THEIR way, geesh.)

Cheers,
San

~~~~~~~~ Stay tuned, here and at YouTube, for all the latest about anything and everything. My goal has always been to provide a place (er...places) where people can get informed about whatever it is they need to know. I'm stickin' to it, and I hope you stick around to learn a thing or two. As I always say: Time spent learning is never wasted time. ~~~~~~~~

My YouTube Videos Related to this Google Adsense Issue:

and

A Warm Wednesday Welcome...

2011-08-10T07:29:00.000-04:00

Thank you for stopping by today. If you happened upon Informed Sharing by way of Lee at Tossing it Out, I'd like to welcome you and hope you enjoy your visit.

As it happens, life has gotten in the way again and I may not be here much today or tomorrow and maybe not even till Monday now. Please take a peek here if you wish to know why.

But rest assured, I do know my path and it certainly includes continuing to discover fabulous things around the web that will help us all live healthy: mind, body, and spirit.

And remember, time spent learning is never wasted time!

Cheers,
San

Oh, and PS: if you didn't get here by way of Lee, check out my guest post at his place and feel free to follow him around the blogosphere. A fabulous blogging friend to be sure :)

In Honor of His Father

2011-08-09T10:42:00.001-04:00

I come here today with a heavy heart.

Fingers aching to put (on paper) the suffering of this heavy heart.

Hovering over the keys because how can you explain in mere words what your brain cannot comprehend, what your heart wishes were a lie.

Yesterday this world gave to the heavens a great man.

A man who touched the lives of everyone he met and many who never had the awesome opportunity to do so personally.

I did not know this man as well as some others; but I did know him well enough that I will be forever thankful he came into my life and shared a piece of himself with me.

Ralph Waldo Emerson once said:

"It is not the length of life, but the depth of life."

Meet Gerald Robinov.

Jerry spent his length of life filling the hearts and minds of so many people with what was to become his legacy - his depth of life.

Whether it was a word of praise, a joke, a hug, a loving memory, life lesson, or even a (certainly justified) reprimand; Jerry lived the depth of his life so that we may carry in our hearts a piece of him all the rest of our lives.

How darn lucky are we?!

Ralph Waldo Emerson also once said:

"Death comes to all, but great achievements build a monument which shall endure until the sun grows cold."

Today we lay Gerald Robinov to rest. And we remember with hearts full of love all that he has done for us so that we may endure this sadness with strength until we meet again.

I come here today with a heavy heart. Thankful though, for the strength to place my fingers upon the keys in remembrance of a great man. Blessed to have known him. And honored with the gifts he has given me to enrich my life until we meet again.

Cheers, my friend. You will forever have a place in my heart.

San

~~~~~~~~This post is dedicated to one of the most amazing men I have ever known. His father's son. My Gary. I love you with every bit of my being and am so very grateful for all he (and she) gave you that you now share with me. I hold your hand and your heart so tightly. Today and always. ~~~~~~~~

____________________________

How cheeky then, to have announcements at the end, huh??

But I want to remind my fabulous readers that tomorrow I am guest posting over at Tossing it Out. You should also know that my post there reflects my true understanding of the legacy Gerald Robinov left behind. I plan to be here some tomorrow and welcome any and all visitors here and at Lee's Place. Thank you.

Tossing it Out is Sharing - Get Informed!

2011-07-16T03:55:00.000-04:00

You all know Lee, right? From Tossing it Out...fabulous co-host and founder of the A to Z Blogging Challenge, two years running?

Well you should.

And if you don't, I strongly encourage you (I can give orders to the best of them but it's really up to YOU to click) to go visit his blog - Tossing it Out.

I'll wait here while you enjoy a bit of Lee.

(Don't worry about me, I've got plenty to do till you get back.)

Oh, good; you've come back...I'll be honest when I say that I half expected you to be gone awhile longer. Isn't Tossing it Out just one of the loveliest blogs you ever did happen upon?

Of course it is.

But WHY am I gushing again?

I DO that, silly. But here's where you can start to really pay attention.

Arlee Bird (Lee to those of us lucky to know him a tiny bit) blogs. His blog is a fabulous representation of his life adventures. Lee takes us on marvelous trips through time, and does it in such a way that we feel as though we were/are/wish to be right there with him as he shares his experiences.

But Lee - and his blog - are so much more than that.

Lee spends an incredible amount of time giving back and/or paying it forward to his many blogging friends.

I can't begin to describe ALL the ways he does this - follow him and check in often to see about that - but I am sharing his latest awesome sharing of friends.

Guest Posts - Bloggers Uniquely Tied to April 2011 A to Z Blogging Challenge.

Oh for crying out softly. Took me long enough to get to the point, didn't it?

Just go visit this post and you'll see what I mean.

And stay tuned, I've been invited to guest post too; and I can't WAIT to share a bit of me with all of you at Tossing it Out (more on that in a couple of weeks).

In the mean time, don't forget to follow Lee - not stalker style, geesh - and enjoy his prose; he really is simply satisfying...and now you know!

Cheers,
San

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Check out my latest lens on Squidoo - Yep, it's all about how my ex-husband lost 125 pounds. Enjoy!

My Ex-Husband Lost 125 Pounds - and No, It Wasn't Me!

Go HERE to see all my Squidoo Lenses and discover how you can become a Squid too!

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And don't forget to stop by AskSanAnything at YouTube to catch all the crazy in my life - ON VIDEO! Gary will be filming my next weigh in on August 1st; stay tuned!

And just WHO is Gary? Gary Robinov, documentary filmmaker of Canvasman: The Robbie Ellis Story. Yep, how darn lucky am I?!!

And Then There's Squidoo

2011-07-07T11:11:00.000-04:00

I recently joined Squidoo and am having so much fun with it that I thought I would share it with you.

Oh, but WAIT a minute. Let me share this first...

I am having such a time staying caught up with everything and feeling guilty about neglecting this or that or ...whatever. So I'm giving that part up (the guilty...). I've set some goals and I'm going to work on sticking to those, daily, weekly, monthly; and let the rest fall where it may.

Okay, now that's out of the way. Squidoo!

Squidoo allows you to create lenses to showcase...anything you want to. Kinda like a blog post, or writing an article, or even making a video.

But it's so much more than that. The tools and Squidoo makes available for lens makers are amazing. And a bit overwhelming - at first.

To that end, before you decide to join and start your own lenses, you may wish to check out this lens from Pablina. She was (and still is) instrumental in helping me navigate the site and with learning how everything works to best maximize my potential there.

She also has a lovely little blog devoted to her lenses and others. Geared toward helping others learn the ins and outs of Squidoo, the Squidoo Lady shares posts that make your Squidoo experience the best it can be.

Visit Pablina's other cool Squidoo Lenses!

I am in love with Squidoo and having so much fun being creative.

Check out a couple of my lenses if you'd like to see what even a newbie can do at Squidoo:

I Cut My Hair On YouTube - More Than Once!

and

Canvasman: The Robbie Ellis Story Now Available at Amazon

Even if you don't visit my lenses, Squidoo is definitely something fun, informative, and fabulous - go check it out now!

Cheers,
San

I'm writing lenses on Squidoo and would love you to join me

Oh, and if I didn't mention it? Squidoo does pay too! YAY!

Canvasman: The Robbie Ellis Story Now Available on Amazon

2011-07-01T09:47:00.000-04:00

Just a QUICK Friday post to let you all know:

Canvasman: The Robbie Ellis Story Now Available on Amazon

I hope everyone has a GREAT weekend and "see" ya on Monday!

Happy Fourth of July, America!

Is Gastric Bypass Right for Me?

2011-06-27T08:22:00.001-04:00

Oh EM Gee. I so (soooo) meant to post yesterday. And I was here most of the day, working, writing, socializing, promoting.

And it wasn't until late afternoon that I even remembered that I forgot to blog. Ugh. I'm still trying to figure a way to fit it ALL in.

And I've had a lot going on lately. One thing that took up some space, time, and thought last week was the question, should I have Gastric Bypass Surgery?

Many of you may know that I am working on get getting healthy...and that it's been a pretty uphill battle to lose this weight.

My original goal was to lose 2 pounds per week for 52 weeks - 104 pounds in a year - not TOO lofty a goal.

And I've been sucking eggs at it.

Recently I've spent some time with my doctor, a sports medicine professional, and a counselor - all to figure out what issues I had and why I'm not losing. TWO pounds per week...ugh.

As it turns out, I'm healthy - relatively speaking. My physical was good, my numbers are good. I'm sticking to an over all healthy plan...MOSTLY...

So what's the big fat deal?

They don't know...well, we MIGHT know. But I'll get to that in a minute.

So I met with a counselor who (after listening to my frustration and angst about NOT losing) suggested I might be a good candidate for Gastric Bypass surgery.

Hmmm?? I had VERY limited knowledge about this and so I went in search of some answers. The following two videos reflect a bit of what I discovered during the 3 days I immersed myself in the world of Bariatric Procedures:

and

Now, neither of these videos could possibly begin to cover all that one needs to know before making an informed decision about Gastric Bypass (or any of the other 3 bariatric procedures). If you are thinking about having any kind of bariatric procedure, I encourage you to do your research, join a WLS community, sit down with your doctor...whatever it takes to make the right choice for you. WLS is a life long commitment and just might be the very hardest thing you'll ever do.

As for me?

Well, you'll have to watch the videos - at least the second vid, to be sure.

And in the mean time...the next 30 days are all about me. Stay tuned for an on camera weigh in on August 1st. Let's just see about what's to come...

Cheers,
San

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To stay directly updated about all things vid related, please subscribe to Ask San Anything at YouTube. You may also bookmark this page here at Informed Sharing to get your fill. Please note: there will not be a weigh in until August 1st, with Gary filming me weigh in on camera. Thank you always for your support in my (totally going to GET THERE) quest to be healthy: mind, body, and spirit!

Plagiarizing Facebook on Father's Day

2011-06-19T07:19:00.003-04:00

Today is Father's day. It's also a day of the week. And so of course I found myself on Facebook this morning.

Lurking, nosing, reading...

And updating my status.

Because it's Father's Day and I wanted to give kudos to all the dads out there, I did.

And because I often just write from the heart, I did.

AND I liked what I wrote there.

SO.

I'm stealing it from my Facebook page to share here:

Happy Father's Day to all the guys out there who didn't just do the deed, but followed through and became DADS. You deserve this day and I darn well hope you ENJOY it :)

My bb daddy (yep, he is)

The Most Amazing Daughter a Father Could Have

The Best Bonus Dad a Daughter Could Have

To my father in heaven: I love you Daddy and I miss you everyday. I don't wallow in it because I know I'm going to see you again but it's sure not as easy as pickin' up the phone. Thanks for being the best dad in the whole wide world! ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Happy Dad's Day, Daddy, I love you!

Thus the whole plagiarizing Facebook on Father's Day.

I suppose plagiarize is a harsh word since I am giving myself credit...either way, I meant what I said and I said what I meant!

'Nuff said!

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So THIS week it was NO Wednesday post but another Sunday post, hoo RAH! I'll get it together soon, I promise :)

Oh, and Kari Marie: I WANT to email you back but this week has been CRAZY and I haven't been in the right head space. But I appreciate where you're coming from and I do wish to respond; thank you so much for your kindness!! ...and be in touch soon :)

SWEET Sunday Post and Sharing This YUMMY Award!

2011-06-12T10:42:00.001-04:00

Okay, so HAPPY Sunday and oh, what a SWEET Sunday it is :)

I've once again been given a lovely award from my fabulously talented blogger friend, Kari Marie. She is always writing by heart and does so in such a unique and comfortable way that you want to curl up on her couch and simply listen to what she has to say.

If she wouldn't mind you barging in and stayin' awhile.

ANYway, here's my sweet treat:

And with it comes some other fun stuff.

The "Rules":

Thank the person who gave this sweet treat.
Share seven random facts about yourself.
Share this sweet treat with 15 fabulous bloggers.
Let those bloggers KNOW about their absolute AWEsome-ness.

So here we go:

Seven Random Facts:

Up until two years ago I was an only child - I am now one of 11 born to my mother and father.
I am going to miss my kiddo - who's leaving on Tuesday for two months with her dad and grandparents.
I wish I weren't obese - and that obsession is helping to keep me fat.
The above fact was painful to share but I'm working through it (mind, body, and spirit).
I am overwhelmed by the wonderful people who live in this blogosphere - they all astound me and inspire me to continue this writing life I love.
Maine's weather is depressing me this year - cold, rain, blistering hot, cold, rain...make up YOUR mind, please and thank you.
I really and truly am the happy person you see on your screen - MOST of the time; I am only human!

Sharing Blogging Love with 15 8 AMAZING Blogging Friends:

Marie Anne @ Write, Wrong or Indifferent

Tiffani Rose @ Thoughts from Tiffani

Jen Daiker @ Unedited

Sue Harding @ I Refuse to Go Quietly

Arlee Bird @ Tossing it Out

Theresa Wiza @ My Heart Blogs to You

Langley Cornwell @ Langley Writes

Pablina @ withheld fever

Honestly??

I do believe eight SWEEEEEEEET bloggers is more than enough to stimulate your senses without giving you brain overload. And I do adore all eight for many reasons so be sure to take a peek and see what they're all about!

Cheers,
San

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Yep, that was my SWEET Sunday post. Thanks again, Kari Marie for giving me such a tasty reason to randomly blog on a Sunday! **HUGS**

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If you've been given this sweet treat, be sure to pass it on to the blogging people in your life who make it so darn tasty :) YUM!

Web Answers is Fab, Fun, Informative, and Money in YOUR Pocket!

2011-06-08T11:37:00.001-04:00

It's Wednesday again. Time to BLOG, wooHOO!!

I couldn't wait to get here today to share the latest with you.

And yes, that's my blogging schedule for the summer. Just one day a week (Wednesdays) until I get the rest of my life sorted out.

(I tend to pack on the "chores" and then fall apart when I get too overwhelmed...)

But THAT'S not why I'm here today. I want to tell you about my latest venture - answering questions online. This was MEANT for me. And it's so much fun and helpful too!

(And beneficial for your wallet too...)

Let me explain.

Web Answers.

Web Answers is a fab site where you can answer all the questions you want - and ask them too - and if you have a Google AdSense account, and if you are awarded best answer (for whatever question), you will earn a percentage of the ads placed on the question page for a whole year - you must answer 10 questions first to be eligible to integrate your accounts, which took me about an hour.

You can go right here to sign up and yes, that IS my referral link - as you can earn by referring too. Why WOULDN'T I share that? But it's not necessary to sign up under MY link. Feel free to go to Web Answers and check them out to see what they're all about.

What I've discovered so far:

Everyone is seriously so nice and friendly.
The atmosphere (site and members) is positive and enjoyable.
No initiation time beyond the initial 10 questions answered - someone asks, you answer and get awarded best answer, you earn revenue - beginners too.

...just a few things to think about while you peruse the site to see if it might be something you'd enjoy.

The thing is, that I LOVE to help people. I WANT to inform, to share, to help others live better through my experience.

AND to earn from Google while I do it at Web Answers?

A seriously FABuLOUS bonus!

Now listen...I've only been a member since Saturday. And I must give props to Brenda Nelson, a writer friend over at Triond, for introducing me to the site (yes, I did sign up under her referral).

When I joined I figured I'd make a goal of answering an average of 10 questions per day. Some questions require only a quick response and some you can provide more detail and/or link to a relevant article you may have written (to provide MORE help).

So far I've answered 37 questions, and been awarded best answer on four of them. YAY me. Being rewarded for simply KNOWING something is so wonderful. And helpful too.

And you can share your answer where ever you'd like (FaceBook, Twitter, etc.) to generate more views (earning you more revenue and informing even MORE peeps about your awesome smarts).

Bottom Line??

Web Answers is fun. It's fast and rewarding - who doesn't love that instant gratification for knowing you helped someone live better?!!!

And probably the best part about it is the ease with which you can fit it into your day and be able to add another revenue stream. Several veterans (from what I've read) are bringing home several hundred extra dollars a month.

Who couldn't use THAT?

So go on, check out Web Answers and sign up today. Maybe I'll be seeing you around the old water cooler there, where we can share what we know and be better off for doing so. YAY US!

Cheers,
San

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Here's my referral one more time:

Sign up and answer your butt off to help others live better!

Don't worry if you simply sign UP on your own, though. People helping people is such an awesome thing!

And here are my four awarded BEST answers, to give you an idea of how it works:

Animal Cruelty Sucks - Do You Agree?

Good Paying Jobs that Require Short Time Earning Degree

Walking in the Rain...Would You...?

Is It Easier to Fall In Love When You're Young?

<3 Happy Helping People!!!! <3

Tuesday Was My Monday and Meet Our Newest Addition

2011-06-01T10:01:00.000-04:00

Happy June 1st.

It's Wednesday.

I meant to blog yesterday and totally ... well, I totally did not.

I do hope everyone had a FABuLOUS Memorial Day weekend. I wish to extend my thanks and give honor to those dedicated to preserving our freedom. This is an everyday blessing, not just once a year!

Let's see, what else is happening...

Busy, busy...end of the school year is just around the corner and Punky flies out THAT night for her summer visit with Gramma, Popo, and Daddy. It's a lovely break for mommy, but it's a heart breaking thing too...

Let's not talk about it...

Oh, here's some FAB news:

On Friday May 27th we welcomed a beautiful new addition to our family, meet Sasha:

Sasha is a sweet little 5 year old that we adopted from the Animal Refuge League. She is a tabby cat and is a bit chubby too. Apparently the poor thing wasn't being taken care of properly; and while you would normally think that means UNDER fed...Sasha's issue is the opposite.

It's quite alright though. She and I are dedicated to getting healthy and in shape :)

The whole family (including the self-proclaimed non-liker of cats) is thrilled with our new baby and I can't wait to show her off some more.

For now, however, she is still getting used to our house and is quite shy. Sasha enjoys loves 'n' pets and is settling in at her own pace; which is alright with us!

Welcome Home Sasha!

That's all for today. I still don't have a clear plan for blogging/vlogging/writing and it's driving me a bit insane. Stay tuned for more about that...for now, I've got some baseball cards to attend to and a house that needs a quick straightening.

Here's to a FANTABULISTIC day for ALL!

Cheers,

San

Baseball Just Got A Whole Lot More Interesting...

2011-05-25T14:02:00.000-04:00

Only because I've finally decided to sift through and get to organizing the 3000+ baseball cards I have in my possession.

I'm not a collector.

I came by these by way of...well, that's a story you'll just have to wait for.

I'm also working on a page here to categorize them all AND I produced a slide show at Y!CN if you'd like to view a bit of the collection...

Just click here to view this beautiful baseball collection and stay tuned, THIS is my summer project!

Cheers,
San

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A few BB card pics to get you started:

But be sure to click the above link to get the full scope of this fabulously HUMONGOUS BB card collection!

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So what am I doing in May? Working on a blog AND vlog schedule AND making my way through the Reflections posts from the A to Z Blogging Challenge. I've visited more than 100 fab bloggers so far and plan to share many of them with you as we continue our education in life!

Tuesday is for Talking about - Our Life...Plain and Simple

2011-05-24T09:54:00.000-04:00

Well, not MY life. Not today.

Today I'm sharing Roberta and Dennis with you.

Their blog - Our Life - Plain and Simple - is lovely representation of Roberta and Dennis' life as it plays out and in all ways.

I "met" Roberta as I've "met" many of my fellow bloggers - through the A to Z Challenge and the subsequent reflections posts.

Yes, I am still merrily making my way through the list. My reading has been severely limited (in regard to those reflections) for the last 10 days but I am determined to get to know these reflectors and I am having a grand time doing so.

But let's get back to Roberta and Dennis. I do believe that Roberta is more often the writer of this blog but that just might be a "girl thing"...

She writes about all sorts of things - her lovely family (with lovely pics), her passion for bussing her kiddos (as she calls them) safely to and from school, and other fun and fabulous items that cause her to put pen to paper.

Roberta appears dedicated to living her life full of passion for whatever she does and her love for everyone and everything in her life absolutely jumps off the screen as you peruse her and Dennis' page.

This is endears me to her as I happen to believe in this credo, strongly and with focus. Living your life full of passion (for whatever) and you will not fail.

Roberta and Dennis are certainly no strangers to tragedy either. I will leave her to share that piece with you. But she didn't fall down from it; rather grew this sadness into a positive, by helping to spread the word about a leading cause of automobile accidents across our country.

Good for you, Roberta. All of it. Your blog is a lovely place to visit and for sure I will be heading back to enjoy bits of you and your family. Thank you for taking the time to provide such a fabulous respite.

Cheers,
San

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So what am I doing in May? Working on a blog AND vlog schedule AND making my way through the Reflections posts from the A to Z Blogging Challenge. I've visited more than 100 fab bloggers so far and plan to share many of them with you as we continue our education in life!

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My latest weigh in on YouTube:

Subscribe today to join the "drama" that is my life...enjoy!

It's My Birthday and I'll Blog if I Want To...

2011-05-18T13:04:00.000-04:00

Yep, it's my birthday today and I planned to share a list of famous people who happen to all have been born on this glorious day.

But I'm not doing that...

Instead, I'm handing those reins over (pun intended) to Linda Ann Nickerson.

Linda Ann tagged me on Facebook today to share with me her article about famous peeps born on May 18th and I was thrilled. She completely cut my research time down to zero, zip, zilch; leaving me with plenty of time to relax in a nice hot bubble bath before the Birthday Celebration begins tonight.

So please feel free to visit May 18: Today's Notable Birthdays - Linda Ann Nickerson.

Also be sure to check out her profile (she's done a famous birthday list for every day of the year, I think).

And she writes other fabulous articles too; just FYI for you!

In fact, Linda Ann was my E for the A to Z; how cool is THAT?!!!

Okay, so I've got to get in the bubbles but here's my Birthday Video for you - hope you enjoy!

It's My Birthday and I'll Vid if I Want To...

Cheers,
San

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So what am I doing in May? Working on a blog AND vlog schedule AND making my way through the Reflections posts from the A to Z BloggingChallenge. I've visited more than 100 fab bloggers so far and plan to share many of them with you as we continue our education in life!

Tuesday's News - Just Another Informed Share

2011-05-17T13:59:00.001-04:00

Okay, so I'm still trying to figure out a few things with this whole blogger thing. THAT said, I had another post planned for today but due to circumstances beyond my control, I have to reschedule it...maybe later in the week? ...fingers crossed :)

In the mean time I thought I'd share with you a bit of MY news for Tuesday...in vid form, enjoy:

Network Cancellations, Arnold Schwarzenegger Fathers a Child with Staffer, and Do You Sleep Like Crap?

That's all there is to it today...

Cheers,
San

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So what am I doing in May? Working on a blog AND vlog schedule AND making my way through the Reflections posts from the A to Z BloggingChallenge. I've visited more than 100 fab bloggers so far and plan to share many of them with you as we continue our education in life!

It's a Contest - And You Can't Win if You Don't LIKE!

2011-05-13T14:44:00.001-04:00

Still traipsing through the A to Z reflections list but hit a road block the last couple of days with issues beyond my control (hope everyone on Blogger is back up and running smoothly, yay!).

In the mean time I want to share a bit about the contest that Canvasman is having over at FaceBook.

It's fun AND fab. Gary Robinov, the producer/director of Canvasman: The Robbie Ellis Story, is looking for new friends.

He wants people to LIKE him...er...well, his movie, anyway.

(Truth be told, he already has enough friends...or knows someone who knows someone who...ugh, don't ever play six degrees of separation with him...)

ANYway, here's the deal:

Canvasman FaceBook Fan page is looking to grow to 500 fans.
All those who LIKE THIS PAGE until that golden number is reached will be entered into a drawing to win an autographed poster and copy of the film.

That's it. Visit Canvasman on FaceBook; LIKE it; enter to win a poster and movie signed by Robbie Ellis, himself.

Pretty cool, huh?!!!

And if you want to know more about the movie, the star, the fabulous director, and/or much more, visit canvasmanmovie.com and get your education on - time spent learning is never wasted time.

Cheers,
San

- Oh and yep, it's legit. I know this because I happen to be in love with the director. It's no big secret. He's adorable AND brilliant and he makes a darn good flick!

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Meanwhile, I've got some more reading to do...

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While enjoying my new Spring Do...

Part I

Part II

Part III

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Please Note: One random CanvasFan will be chosen to receive an autographed poster and movie once the Canvasman FaceBook Fan Page reaches 500 likes. Thanks for liking us, we like you too!

Wednesday is Award Day - Because I SAID So...

2011-05-11T10:12:00.000-04:00

Apparently I can't get away from having a theme. Only instead of using letters of the alphabet, I've switched to days of the week.

Ack.

Well, honestly, I'm still trying to decide about a blog schedule that will fit in with my vlog schedule and allow me to GET BACK TO writing (non-blog writing, that is...not that it is in any way BETTER than blogging, just different...oh, you get it...) PLUS I still wanna (whining) blog EVERY day but know that it's just not possible...

ANYway...

So I was thinking that while I finished hopping around the reflections posts that I might limit myself to posting only on Tuesdays and Thursdays for the rest of May. A nice relaxing schedule, dontcha think?

Well THAT flew right out the window yesterday because...

I GOT AN AWARD. Two awards, really - yes, I'm snagging them both because Kari Marie said I could and I just couldn't choose only one...

I know. Excited much?

Actually I am. Because I didn't go into this with the intention of racking up all kinds of fabulous blogger awards. I didn't even know they existed until I was amid so many of the fabulous bloggers for the A to Z challenge.

But here they are and I am so beyond tickled about them both:

and:

Special thanks to Kari Marie who is just so lovely and real and Writing by Heart. Please stop by to tell her hello and send my regards as well!

Now, I believe I have a "pay it forward" thing to do and this is the best part of getting an award. So here are my 7 facts:

1. I've been blogging since 2006 - sporadically, to be sure.
2. I was born to write - but it took me 37.5 years to realize it.
3. I have an amazing daughter - and being a mother sometime scares the heck out of me.
4. I am so fortunate to be able to do this thing I love - write.
5. I am this close (pinching finger and thumb tightly together) to starting my novel.
6. I am scared to death of that.
7. I don't usually share things randomly (with the whole wide world) that scare me and here I've shared two.

NOW I get to do the next right thing; which is to pass along these lovely awards to 7 deserving bloggers. YAY! I will go Kari Marie's route and insist that you choose which ever one you'd like, or both...and please know that even though I may not have visited your blog more than once or twice so far - still reflecting, you see... I've seen something(s) that I like and will most certainly be coming back for more.

Loralie Hall - It's Always About the Journey

RG Pyper - Unumbered Words

Sue Harding - I Refuse to Go Quietly

Paula Martin - Paula Martin's Potpourri

Tiffani Rose - Thoughts from Tiffani

mooderino - Moody Writing

Rosalind Adams - Writing in the Rain

So keep on doing this thing you love and so. Will. I.

Cheers,
San

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Get informed with Z to A all through the month of May!

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So what am I doing in May? Working on a blog AND vlog schedule AND making my way through the Reflections posts from the A to Z Blogging Challenge. I've visited more than 100 fab bloggers so far and plan to share many of them with you as we continue our education in life!

OMG, It's Tuesday Already - Time for a Movie? FilmMattic Helps You Choose!

2011-05-10T12:42:00.000-04:00

I did not post yesterday.

I felt like I was breaking some unwritten "gotta post on MONDAY" rule.

I'm mostly over it.

...just had some personal issues yesterday...okay?

But here it is, Tuesday, and here I am.

I am still happily traipsing through the Reflections list and though it's taking me longer than I originally intended, I'm meeting some REALLY cool peeps; which more than makes up for any worries about time constraints (hey, I'm my own boss and I have certain obligations....)

ANYway, I'm here today to share with you a blogger named Matt. He's SERIOUSLY into movies, my friends.

Did you know that he blogged about 26 amazing must-see films for the A to Z Blogging Challenge?

Did you also know that I am admittedly not a big film buff? You can read about it here and here.

This has much to do with my strict upbringing. And my significant other* is working to rectify any injustices due to my not seeing many of the classics...

Which brings me back to FilmMattic. Matt's Movie Blog. Matt knows movies. And his reviews of them are spot on. At least the ones I've seen.

Again, sorry to say, I'm ridiculously lacking in that respect.

BUT...

And here's the cool part. I like Matt's style. And I agree with his reviews. So much so that now I've got a great place to go when I want to choose a great flick. Whether it's horror, comedy, romance, a thriller, whatever....at least I know I'm going to get an honest review with which to make my choice.

Oh, and did I mention that he's hysterically funny too?

ANYway, I'm busy. I'm a busy girl, working my way through the A to Z reflections and keeping up on more than 200 blogs I am now following (which I can only see in Google Reader, thanks Lee; and yep, I couldn't help but to follow most...)

And when I need a break from perusing, reading, laughing, and loving all these fabulous blogs...I can hop over to FilmMattic and pick a great new/old/fab flick to enjoy.

Thanks, Matt!!

Cheers,
San

*my significant other is Documentary filmmaker Gary Robinov, producer/director of Canvasman; and is currently working on two more amazing documentaries - coming your way soon.

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Get informed with Z to A all through the month of May!

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So what am I doing in May? Working on a blog AND vlog schedule AND making my way through the Reflections posts from the A to Z Blogging Challenge. I've visited more than 90 fab bloggers so far and plan to share many of them with you as we continue our education in life!

Happy Mom's Day X 2 - In Honor of Momma and Mom!

2011-05-08T10:55:00.000-04:00

This Mother's Day I honor both my moms. The one who gave me up and the one who raised me up. Thank you both for being a part of who and what I am. Thank you for giving me this legacy of an adopted child...Read more...

And of course I vlogged it too...

I am, always, a work in progress and without the two of you, we never could have begun...

Thank you,

Love,

San

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So what am I doing in May? Working on a blog AND vlog schedule AND making my way through the Reflections posts from the A to Z Blogging Challenge. I've visited more than 80 fab bloggers so far and plan to share many of them with you as we continue our education in life!

Z to A in May is Off and Running!

2011-05-05T13:50:00.001-04:00

Having just completed the A to Z Blogging Challenge April 2011 (unofficially) I was reluctant to sign up for the Z to A in May Blogging Challenge. So I didn't.

As much as I enjoyed blogging my butt off in April, I knew that May was going to be a hectic month - and 5 days in, I was right - and I just didn't want to commit and have to quit.

I have a habit of being all gung-ho in the beginning (of whatever) and then seriously slacking on the follow-through. Not in EVERYthing I do but ... well THERE'S a bit of honesty for ya.

So no Z to A in May for me.

BUT...

I happen to like the idea AND the host (Marie Anne) of this exciting May Challenge. And because I am all about informing you, I had to share...

Z to A in May is this:

Every day in May (except for Sundays) you blog about (whatever) corresponding to the letter of the alphabet.

Just like April's A to Z but here's the twist - you go about blogging - BACKWARDS.

So May 2 was Z, May 3 - Y; and so on.

FAB, right?

I know. And apparently more than 60 fine blogging folks are finding it FAB as well.

I want to give kudos to Marie Anne for hosting this Z to A in May Blogging Challenge.

I also want to thank all participants for bringing us more of them in this exciting backwards adventure.

And just so YOU know...at a quick glance, the Z to A list looks full of interesting and fabulous learning...for you and for me. Though, I must admit I have visited many of these blogs already, so I might have a bit of a head start.

But don't let that throw ya. Go peruse the list, click a link, and get your education on - Z to A in May. YAY!

Cheers,
San

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Get informed with Z to A all through the month of May!

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So what am I doing in May? Working on a blog AND vlog schedule AND making my way through the Reflections posts from the A to Z Blogging Challenge. I've visited more than 50 fab bloggers so far and plan to share many of them with you as we continue our education in life!

ACK... Why Are They all MISSING?

2011-05-03T15:37:00.002-04:00

I hadn't planned to post today. I'm working on a blogging schedule of sorts and in the mean time I am reading my way through the Reflections posts list.

...and having a grand old time, for sure - 26 blogs read so far and with absolute pleasure.

However, I just discovered that all the new blogs I'm following are not showing up on my "Blogs I'm Following" list.

What a let down. I had plans to showcase many of these new blogging friends and now I have no easy way of going back to them.

I am bummed.

And wondering what I did wrong.

I hit follow. Then FOLLOWED through with the instructions. Ack. Why are they all MISSING?

Either way, I am going to continue featuring other bloggers (along with online articles from peeps around the world) and that's that.

I'm sorry I've missplaced you all.

No worries, I'm sure you'll turn up eventually.

Now to get back to reading more FANTABULISTIC blogs, YAY!

Cheers,
San

****UPDATE****Okay, so I've found a way to get them to my follow list but it involves 3 extra steps. Ugh. Not complaining so much as stating the obvious - reading through this fabulous reflections list is going to take a tad bit longer than I thought.

Totally worth it, though. Who KNEW about all these beautiful bloggers??

Well stay tuned, you will soon, right here at Informed Sharing. YAY!

Strange Title? Well There's No Letter...

2011-05-02T09:38:00.006-04:00

Actually there are lots of letters up in that title; 30 to be exact.

Which is fitting, since I began this blog 33 days ago. This is my 29th post. And none of this is making much sense.

I came here to reflect about the A to Z Blogging Challenge; of which I did not officially sign up for but I am proud to say I made it through anyway.

Every letter - from A to Z.

It feels like quite an accomplishment and to be quite honest, especially where last week is concerned, it happens to be the highlight of my month - April.

I'll be sharing more about THAT in my weekly weigh in on YouTube but the bottom line is you're here to read about what the A to Z meant to me and in order for you to do so, I need to stop babbling.

Reflecting upon A to Z:

First, BIG thank you to all the peeps responsible for hosting this fabulous shindig.

This Challenge did one very AWESOME thing for many folks and that was to bring them together and introduce them to OTHER fine blogging folks.

I know this because I met a whole big bunch of them. Though I didn't even scratch the surface.

I easily checked out more than 100 blogs.

I featured 22 stunning bloggers.

I went from 2 followers (me, and myself...yikes) to 22.

My blog was viewed more than 1150 times. (AMAZING considering this was my first month)

I learned a bunch of stuff that I wouldn't normally have gone searching for but am better off now for knowing.

I got really good at writing reviews (if I do say so myself).

I enjoyed it (writing reviews) immensely.

I'm not going to stop highlighting other bloggers - and writers - from all over the internet.

I am forever grateful for all the new friends I've made in just one short month.

I plan to spend the rest of the day till my eyes are blurry, reading and commenting on A to Z Reflections posts. YAY me, how darn lucky am I?!!!

Well THAT about sums it up, doesn't it. A little kudos for me, a LOT of kudos for Lee and his A to Z crew, and a very special thank you so very much to all the bloggers I got to meet and feature for April.

You see, I started Informed Sharing with the intention of passing along useful information to my readers. Things that I learn that I just HAVE to share with you so that you may continue your education in life too.

(UN)officially participating in the 2011 A to Z Blogging Challenge was an amazing way to kick that off and a solid reiteration that I'm doing something good for others.

If I weren't informed, and I didn't share, HOW would you KNOW?

Silly question because now you DO know. How darn fabulous is that?!!

Cheers,
San

Be sure to stop by Tossing it Out and give a shout out to Arlee Bird. He just damn well deserves it and once you're there, you'll know why!!

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If you are a new reader to Informed Sharing, welcome. Come on in and stay awhile. Visit any of my informed shares and get your education on...and stay tuned, I have plenty more in store for you!

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What IS that?

Mags has an idea but what's your guess?

What does it LOOK like?

What is it for real?

Comment below and let's get this conversation started!

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Oh, and one last thing: I don't condone the murder of ...well, most. I am not vengeful or vindictive and I try to live my life positively. I do alright most of the time. However, I can't help smiling today because we got him. We finally got the son of a bitch who attempted to steal the one thing we Americans pride ourselves with above all else. Our freedom.

Osama bin Laden - you're dead. You deserved it for all the lives you've affected. All the minds you've raped. All the innocents you slaughtered. I hope at the last moment you may have recognized all your wrong-doing. I also believe you were too arrogant to have done so. May you rot in hell.

God Bless The United States of America and God keep everyone who suffered at Osama's dirty hand. May YOU finally rest in peace!

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Zippy, Zesty, Zealous - Just a Few Z's to Bring it all Home

2011-04-30T11:03:00.002-04:00

Okay, so here's the thing. I had planned to sum up everyone that I featured this month - in today's post.

But it just sounds laZy.

Oh, I'm still going to do it; but let's keep it interesting, shall we?

(I make no apologies, I'm seriously sleep deprived and wavering between slap HAPPY and going postal...NOT a good place to be but I'm workin' on that.)

Okay, so let's get re-acquainted...

First there was Marie Anne, who's craftiness extends to crochet art, writing, gardening, and so much more. If you don't listen to what M.A. tells you, it's your own darn fault.

And then we met Donald who conveniently uses a D to begin his name AND he's opinionated about things that help further my education in life. Only one of those qualities scares me but his honesty is so refreshing that I'm working on my D phobia.

Next up was Linda Ann and she certainly knows her horse(s). She's also quite well versed in all things home, writerly, and...well, she's just plain fabulous.

Moving along to Theresa, we discovered a busy blogger who's interests vary in all sorts of fun directions and her style guarantees a wonderful trip, no matter which avenue you choose.

Then we met Kimberly. She gave up Facebook...but WHY? Seems a bit crazy but you should really decide that for yourself.

And then I introduced you to the (co) founder of this lovely A to Z Challenge and if you didn't know it already, Arlee Bird is a wealth of historical information and many other fun bits - he tosses it out and if you're quick, you'll snatch it up and learn something you didn't know - YAY!

Next I shared Rach with you. She writes. And writes well (not to exclude the rest of these fine folks). Rach gives us tips and tools to improve ourselves, as writers and humans. Goooo Rach. (And she is wicked generous with the hugs too.)

And then came Jen. She's another (co) host of the A to Z Challenge. But one glance at her blog will have you hooked on crazy, fabulous, honest bits about things many people might not say out loud. I applaud her for that and I'm right there with ya, Jen.

Oooh, and Kari Marie writes by heart. She pours it out and we should all take note. Her advice and the way she delivers will give any writer the courage to continue doing this thing we love - write.

Lyn Lomasi came next. I tend to gush too much when it comes to Lyn so I'll attempt to refrain; if you know her one tiny bit, you know WHY, anyway. Thanks for ALL you do, Lyn!

Next we met Sue, who's motivational life advice is well worth a trip down under. Not only will she lift you up, she gives you the tools to make that climb on your own (think fish...) Thanks Sue, your serious AND your funny are good daily doses toward a healthy life.

And then there's Hilary. She's been A to Z-ing about historical and little known (but fabulously educational) bits from across the pond. She also shares tales about her smart as a whip mum and getting to know the two of them is a real treat.

Langley gave us many fun words to learn this month. My favorite is still oxymoron, though I learned several new words as well. She also (didn't) lecture me about hating things (about me) and I appreciate that too.

Word Nerd kept me laughing AND learning this month and for that I am grateful. Her less than nerdy style is a great way to reiterate the positive and helpful for anyone needing an education in life.

Alex J. Cavanaugh inspires wonder at many things sci-fi but he's so much more than that. He also continues to inspire the Mr., though I still have no explanation for it. Maybe he reminds me of my 8th grade health teacher, Mr. Williams; random but true.

Oh and then we met Matt Conlon (thanks Sue). He's a HOOT I say. Full of life and sharing the mad hysteria of life that often isn't mentioned but is worth talking about.

Sylvie shares secrets and they are juicy. Tidbits about things that matter in life; which will enrich and satisfy even the most pessimistic person.

Liz loves her cats and they are a-Door-Bell. Adorable, get it?? It's what we say when something or someone is too cute for "real" words. Liz fills us in on life in NYC and gives great advice about the what's and whatnot's and how to survive.

Then I met Hart. She's a naked tart. Nothing wrong with that, for sure. She runs around spreading her ....er....I just made myself blush...geesh, how horribly inappropriate. Hart is a doll face and keeps it real by sharing bits of her with us that we may learn to laugh, love, and LIVE better.

Stephen Tremp's the new science guy (think Ellen Degeneres...oops, I meant Bill Nye). And I like him, like him. His knowledge is vast and great but he's got a way of ....(no offense) dumbing it down for peeps like me. Things that I wouldn't have bothered about normally...I LEARNED!

Then there's our residentgamer. Jennifer has a way with all things game-related. Whether you're X-box, Playstation, NES or even old(er??) school, she's got your techno and she knows her stuff.

Last-ly (and not at all least-ly) there is the Curvy Lady. She offers it up FURRY Eels (for real) and with no apologies if you can't take it.

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And there you have it. 22 fabulous bloggers, brought to you by Informed Sharing so that you may continue your education in life, as I have been so very fortunate to do in mine. Thank you to all who so graciously allowed my link love and please keep doing what you're doing. You inspire all sorts of great things and for that we all should be so lucky.

Cheers,
San

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Please Note: Clicking on the person's name will take you to his or her blog. Clicking further within each summary will take you to the specific IN-SH post. Go get lost in the wonder of these A to Z-ers. You can thank me later; I'll be around.

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Speaking of which....stop by on May 2nd to read my thoughts about the A to Z Blogging Challenge. Please visit with Arlee to get the scoop about how you can participate.

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One last note: I did not sign up for the A to Z Challenge but am so proud of the more than 1000 who did. I'm dedicating every post this month to a different blog; some bloggers I already know and some I've yet to "meet". A to Z...how fun AND fabulous!!!

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PPPPPPPPPPS: Dontcha see? They are ALL zippy, zesty, zealous and just plain FANTABULISTIC!!

You Inspire Me Curvy Lady

2011-04-29T12:35:00.000-04:00

Have you met Curvy Lady?

You can call her C.L.; she says so right on her blog - Curvy Lady.

Okay, C.L., let me tell you WHY you inspire me and why you are my Y today.

Y is for Y-O-U.

As in...you inspire me.

I know, I mentioned that above. I want to make sure everyone gets it...gets it.

Are we clear?

Okay.

Moving on. As we come to the end of this wonderful A to Z Blogging Challenge (that I did not officially sign up for but have had the TIME of MY LIFE participating in by featuring others who did) I realize that I am a bit sad that there are so many bloggers that I haven't begun to get to know.

As I perused Lee's list yesterday, in search of my Y, I was again blown away by the dedication of all who signed up and made it through ... well this far anyway (who's NOT going to do Z?).

But as I clicked around yesterday, I was flummoxed as to who might be my Y.

And then I saw the Curvy Lady.

I thought, "hmmm, a kindred spirit, let's see..."

But C.L. is beyond that. She is curvy (like me) but as I read through her recent posts I discovered that she has one thing that I am struggling with.

Pride.

Pride in who she is and how she lives her life - as a curvy chick.

She's working on getting healthy too but she is sharing bits of her with the rest of us that make me...well, uncomfortable with how I view myself.

She doesn't hate her curves. She doesn't hate herself.

She is embracing her life and all that happens in it as she works to be healthy: mind, body, and spirit.

This I like.

Because as I work toward my own healthy life goals, I struggle daily with that niggling little hate thing - I hate my curves and often I hate myself for who I am as I look in the mirror (physically and emotionally).

And I especially hate that I use the word hate and...ugh.

But C.L., I want to thank you. I thank you for giving me renewed strength to continue on my way toward healthy - I don't want to be skinny, just happy and healthy - and curvy ladies DO rule. You inspire me to do this and again, I thank you!

For the rest of you, if you want some sincere insight into how to live honestly and truly at peace with Y-O-U, go take a peek at the Curvy Lady and get inspired.

Cheers,
San

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Please note: I did not sign up for the A to Z Challenge but am so proud of the more than 1000 who did. I'm dedicating every post this month to a different blog; some bloggers I already know and some I've yet to "meet". A to Z...how fun AND fabulous!!!

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See my own healthy journey right here at Lose the Fat Keep the Fab. I am a real girl in a real world who is working on getting healthy. It's not always pretty and some of it is downright ugly but it's honest and that's a fact!

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I want to extend my heartfelt good wishes to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, William and Catherine. It was an honor to witness your vows of love this early morning. Good luck to you and may you have a life together full of passion, for each other and in all you do!

And thank you YAHOO! and ABC for providing a fabulous online experience. YAY!