SAHM Ramblings

Everyone Needs Role Models Like This

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Fri, 04 Dec 2015 17:01:00 +0000

Today is a special day. It's a day that not many people get to say they can celebrate.

Today my mom and dad are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary!

50 years since the day they said "I Do" to one another. 50 years of being united. 50 years.

In that 50 years, a lot has happened.

They have loved.
They have lost.
They have moved.
They have built a house.
They have found their paradise.
They have been happy.
They have fought.
They have struggled.
They have prospered.
They have raised children.
They have become grandparents.
They have endured sickness.
They have celebrated health.
They have worked.
They have played.
They have traveled.
They have lived.

But the one thing they have done that means the most is that they have been incredible role models. I remember the sacrifices my mom and dad made as I was growing up, but that's what good parents do. That's not the role model I'm talking about. What I mean is that they showed the importance of being in love. They were in love. They ARE in love.

I'm sure I've told this story a million times to as many people as would listen, but I love it and am telling it again. When I was in high school, I was with a friend of mine at my brothers' wrestling meet. We were across the arena from where my parents were sitting. My friend motioned toward my parents and said how obvious their love for one another was. They sat there holding hands while watching the meet. She said that's the kind of marriage she wanted when she grew up. I remember that day so well and the impact her comments had on me. I had never really taken the time to look or notice. She opened my eyes and now I see it every time I look at them or talk to them and each time I reflect on memories about them. It's the kind of marriage I decided I would have.

They are truly in love.

Happy 50th anniversary, Mom and Dad. Thank you for being such great role models! I love you both.

Things, Life,Whatnot

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:36:00 +0000

When I started blogging several years ago, I envisioned a place to share with family, friends and whomever felt like listening. I used it to be excited, to be sad, to complain, to celebrate...

But then I got busy. And *poof* I faltered. I stopped sharing the excitement and started living it offline. I became more reserved about things I complained about. I became more selective mainly because I couldn't find the time or didn't want to share too much of my personal life. Several part time projects here and there, my review blog, stuff for the kids... and life... in general... have all put a damper in things. Have I given up on writing? Heck no. Just busy.

My dad visited the other day and asked why I don't blog any more. His sincere question has been weighing on me since. Actually, it's been weighing on me for a long time but when he said something, it hit a nerve and now I'm up at night with thoughts racing through my head. Why CAN'T I find the time to do something that has always made me so happy?

As a stay-at-home-mom, I'm often asked where all my time goes. It stresses me out to be asked that. Why can't I get this or that done? Mainly because I burn through hours in the day with nothing to show for it. It appears that I sit at my desk for what seems like all day. But in reality, that isn't the case.

My day starts off by waking up and getting the kids ready for school. They still need me for things like what to wear - even though they seldom like what I select. While doing morning chores, I make breakfast for them as well as lunches then walk then to the bus stop. Some mornings, I eat breakfast in between kid-chaos and chores while other days it isn't until about 8:30 before I find the time. We hit the gym 2-3 times a week, return home and get cleaned up, make lunch, clean up the lunch mess and really start the day around 1:00. (On the non-gym days, we usually run errands, I volunteer at the school or work my PT job as an accountant.) So 1:00 is about the first time I can sit down at the computer to really focus on any particular task. But 4 times a week, I kill about an hour or so doing a freelance project creating a newsletter for a marketing company. All the while, I'm constantly (literally) interrupted to let the dog out or back in. When I finish my freelance stuff, I have a brief window to check emails, pay bills, surf or do something non-computer until 3:20 when I walk the dog to the bus stop to meet the girls as they return from school. Once home, I'm into kid-mode helping with homework, running them here or there and trying to be a good mom. My saving grace is that DH has been doing most of the cooking so I help some but mainly focus on post-dinner cleanup. Evenings bring about their own chaos with practices, baths and family time.

Here I sit, (now 5:40 in the morning) spending about an hour putting something in writing so I don't feel like quite a loser. I finally got up after tossing and turning since sometime around 3 when the dog needed out for the second time. Yes , I'm babbling but I think I need it.

Maybe I should just plan to get up at 5 every morning so I can start my day with evidence of something concrete that I actual accomplished for the day.

Not likely though... I value sleep too much.

A Lesson in Charitable Giving (from my 1st grader)

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 14:26:00 +0000

The 1st and 2nd graders at religious education class are in a battle to see who can bring in the most food in the upcoming month. No, they aren't participating in a competitive eating contest... they're putting together donations for a backpack program for families in need.

She Sounded like a Broken Record

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 22:00:00 +0000

My 8 year old daughter was working on her homework and jibber-jabbing something while she worked. It was the same thing over and over.

I just about said "You sound like a broken record." until I realized that she wouldn't have the faintest idea what that meant.

For a split second, I thought "...Like a scratched CD" but quickly nixed that for being before her time also.

"...like an .mp3 stuck on repeat?"

Sigh.

I feel old.

Appetizer Recipe: Spicy Pizza Thins

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Sat, 05 Feb 2011 22:16:00 +0000

Growing up, we celebrated the family Christmas with a meal of all appetizers. One of my favorites was a Pizza Thin recipe that my family had made for as long as I can remember. Now that I'm older, I still love it and enjoy it but have been inspired by #FranksRedHot to jazz it up a bit. (And I'm entering this in Frank's RedHot Recipe Contest!)

Spicy Pizza Thins
Ingredients:
1 Pkg Cocktail Rye
1 16 oz Pkg Sausage
1 Lb Processed Cheese Loaf
1 can Pizza Sauce
Franks Original Hot Sauce to Taste

Directions:
Brown sausage; drain well
Cut cheese into small pieces; melt
Add pizza sauce to melted cheese; stir until well dissolved
Combine cooked sausage with cheese mixture
Add 3-4 teaspoons Franks Original Hot Sauce (more for bite!); Thoroughly mix it in.

Spread onto slices of cocktail rye.

Broil until cheese is nicely browned. Enjoy!

If you're looking for a recipe with even MORE bite, eliminate the pizza sauce and double the Frank's Red Hot Sauce. It doesn't taste as much like pizza but it still tastes great!

Note: These can be prepared ahead of time and frozen on a cookie sheet. Allow to defrost slightly before broiling.

Who Wants an Exclusive Coupon?

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 16:10:00 +0000

As you know, I've been participating in the Lean Cuisine #31Days program for this past month. Creating new habits... better habits... healthier habits.

But...! How about a healthier wallet? I'm excited to say that as part of the campaign, I have a widget on SahmReviews.com to print a Lean Cuisine coupon. It's exclusive to the Lean11 who participated in the #31Days as well as the blogger who coordinated the campaign. You can only print this coupon from these 12 blogs.

Seriously. It's exclusive AND it is limited quantity!

Be sure to stop by SahmReviews.com and grab it before they are gone!

Things that Made the Holidays Bright

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 21:08:00 +0000

It's a new year. Unbelievable how quickly the time goes. There's a lot going on and a lot coming up, but I want to take a few minutes to talk about how 2010 ended for us.

As a family, we spent the middle of December celebrating the holidays with extended family, attending the kids' winter program at school and generally just getting ready for Christmas. As soon as the kids started their winter break, we packed the car and went to visit Grammy.

Aside from that, we had a lot of behind-the-scenes stuff for SAHM Reviews. Primarily, the RAZ - Random Acts of Zhu program. Cepia, LLC gave us 104 Zhu Zhu pets and Kung Zhu pets to distribute to charities of our choice here in the Quad Cities. They didn't put restriction on who or where. They didn't ask for photographs of the families or kids. The only requirement was the commitment to deliver before Christmas and document it.

So I did a little soul searching to determine who I wanted to deliver these to. Kids at the hospital, shelters, who? I contacted the Director of Religious Education at St. John Vianney Church here in Bettendorf, as well as a columnist at the Quad City Times to see if either of them could point me in the best direction. The church responded with enough information to help me get these distributed to kids in need.

When I was discussing it with Jan Stevenson, who heads up the project for St. John Vianney, she explained that they have an Angel program where parishioners 'adopt' a person or family then work to fulfill their wish list. Who do they serve? That's the great part. It's non-denominational. 350 individuals whose names where provided from various agencies. Elementary students from high poverty areas that were referred by the Bettendorf Police Department. Mental health individuals from Vera French. Kids in various "Free lunch" programs. Humility of Mary homeless and transitional housing. Moms and babies from TAPP (a school for pregnant teenagers). As well as other random individuals who are referred.

By donating to St. John Vianney, I would cover a wide range of families in need. Perfect.

As a bonus, St. John Vianney provided me with contact information for one other place I wanted to donate. Didn't care where or how but I wanted to provide some of the Zhu Zhu and Kung Zhu toys to children who have parents deployed. I was ultimately connected with Pat Kobelenske from the National Guard in Davenport. He is a Family Assistance Specialist covering most of Eastern Iowa.

So those were my choices and I set off to make my deliveries in time for the two programs to distribute them to their final destination. Our entire family, as well as a neighbor, helped out with this. DH and I discussed with the kids why it was so important to distribute these. Why we weren't keeping ANY when they're so used to getting stuff to test out themselves. We talked about how some kids don't have the necessities, let alone toys. It was very inspirational to see my girls helping. They helped send me on my way to make the deliveries.

First stop was St. John Vianney. I already told you who they distribute to. But I didn't tell you what. Requested items range from toys to clothes to cleaning supplies. Jan explained that one woman asked for feminine hygiene products and nothing else. Can you imagine your Christmas wish list including only that? Well, they don't just put that in a box and mark it completed. They include additional items like personal care products, cleaning products and other necessities.

They were taking the Zhu Zhu pets and using them to ensure that each child received a toy... starting with the ones that specifically requested Zhu Zhu or Kung Zhu toys. I was overwhelmed by the site of all those baskets, bags and boxes that had been compiled. Made me truly thankful for all that I have. A few days later, I met with the National Guard and learned more about their program and needs.

I put together a video telling the whole story. Amazing. Seriously.

Please take the time to watch the video and see how intense this project was. And if you're inspired enough to want to assist with a giving-tree program in your area, contact a local church, shelter or the police department. Chances are that someone will point you in the right direction. In the meantime, be sure to stop by Facebook and Twitter to pat Cepia on the back for a promotion well done.

I'm proud to have been selected to be part of the 2010 Random Acts of Zhu promotion. Amazing, I tell you.

Disclosure: Cepia, LLC provided 104 Zhu Zhu and Kung Zhu pets to distribute. No compensation was received for this project other than the joy that came with each of the deliveries... and the realization that I was part of a very special promotion to help make the holidays merrier for so many kids. All comments, photos, videos are my own.

No Wrapping Required

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 13:00:00 +0000

I'm certain that everyone can relate to the dilemma of the trivial gift exchange, the ornament exchange or the Secret Santa. You know... extended family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, groups you belong to and more. So many people try to keep it trivial as in "You can't spend more than $5" while others keep it simple by making it a white elephant exchange. It's all stuff.

And while I appreciate that it is all about the thought, I'm trying to get out of the habit of acquiring stuff that I don't need. I'm trying to change my mindset and get rid of things when I'm emotionally ready to do so.

So when a member of Collective Bias inquired if anyone wanted to do a Secret Santa or an Ornament Exchange, I politely declined. Instead, I offered up an alternative. How about a virtual exchange where we take a little time to get to know a fellow member and share a little about that person. After all, it doesn't cost anything, doesn't need to be wrapped, doesn't require shipping, doesn't leave a carbon footprint and it doesn't add clutter to a closet.

One member coordinated it and assigned each of us a colleague. I was lucky enough to draw Eliza of Home Mom 3 who I didn't realize was so diverse! In addition to The Life of a Home Mom, she writes for Tom Cruise Watch and Sales Weekly both of which she started in 2008 and Babies in the News which is a little younger.

But how did she get her start and when? Well, Eliza has been freelancing for years and put roots into her blog in 2005 when she logged on to tell about the gifts her daughter received for her birthday. Her blog has evolved in the years since that to include everything from Wordless Wednesday photo posts to giveaways to more personal stories.

Why did she start blogging? Well, Eliza was the wife of a deployed soldier - making her fill the role of both mom and dad. Her blog was a way to share their life from afar. (BTW - Mr. HomeMom3, Thank you for all the years of service you gave to our country.)

I've known Eliza for quite a while. If I recall correctly, she was among my first blog friends. She's one of those bloggers who leaves comments because she feels moved to... because she cares... and not because she's trying to improve the stats on her own blog. She's someone who is a friend of mine on Facebook that I actually enjoy chatting with! And she's among the people I look forward to meeting in person someday.

In order to participate in this roast, we were asked for some tidbits about ourselves and Eliza shared that she's inspired by frogs. Actually, she specifically said "I believe my "muse" is a 6ft tall frog, at the age of 26 I went out and got a tattoo of a frog on my right shoulder blade. He looks very much like the WB frog but in a jester's outfit." Frogs have been her thing since she was a kid. Good thing, because with all the leaping and jumping that she's had to do as the mom of 4 and military wife, she's needed the role model!

Merry Christmas, Eliza. You're a great blogger and a wonderful person. I'm proud to call you my colleague but even happier to call you my friend.

Holding Hands 45 Years Later

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 21:00:00 +0000

Dear Mom and Dad -

It's funny the things that stick in your head...

When I was in high school, I remember sitting at a wrestling meet at North Scott High School. Donna D. and I were hanging out, chatting in-between matches when she said something that I think of often. I don't recall the exact words but it was something like this:

"Your parents are so cute. Look at them. They still hold hands."

We looked at the two of you from a distance and watched as you held hands while sitting next to each other on the bleachers. You would chat and smile. Donna and I talked about how obvious it was that you were still so much in love with each other.

That was some 25 years ago but I have no doubt that Donna and I could have that exact same conversation today.

At Don and Sandi's 50th wedding anniversary party, Sandy told me that we were one of the most memorable couples they had for marriage preparations. Mainly because of something I said to her during those sessions. She asked me what I wanted in a marriage and my response was "I want one like my mom and dad." Certainly I don't recall saying it but I absolutely can hear myself saying it. It's something that I've felt for a long time... maybe spurred by the conversation Donna and I had so many years before that.

If there's one thing you've done, it's to be models for a loving relationship. You hold hands, joke and giggle like a couple of newlyweds.

It's wonderful having parents who are still in love 45 years after they got married!

Happy 45th Anniversary.

For Half of My Life

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 13:20:00 +0000

Have you ever had a day that meant so much that you marked it on your mental calendar and quietly remember it each year? Today is one of those days for me.

20 years ago today, I met DH. Yes, 20 years. Half of my life ago.

On September 15, 1990, the fraternity I belonged to at my college boarded a bus and headed for St. Louis. At the same time, the chapter of the same fraternity at his college did the same. It was actually DH that spearheaded the event between three schools so I guess he can say he took control of his fate that day. Never would I have imagined that a baseball game between the Cubs and the Cardinals could have such a profound impact on my life.

I could recount the entire story about how we were introduced or how he was actually on a date at the time. but I won't. This post isn't for everyone else as much as it is for DH.

You see, what do you get for the man who doesn't want anything? The one thing that I call my own is my writing... so this post is for him. It's to let him know that 20 years ago he changed my life. He put me on a path that I never expected to be on. We've traveled and have a beautiful family. He has given me material possessions more than I ever expected I would have in my life.

But most of all, he has made me happy. He cheers me up when I am down. He helps me when I am stressed. He loves me even when I am at my worst.

He's wonderful and I'm glad to have spent half my life with him... look forward to spending the rest of my life with him.

DH - I love you and thank you for planning that trip so many years ago.

Call Me The Bag Lady

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:50:00 +0000

No, you aren't seeing things. This isn't a duplicate of my prior post. You know how I previously said that DaySpring is giving money to Adopt-A-Classroom for each blog post and Facebook note? Well, they aren't the only ones. So is Elmer's - up to $10,000. That's a LOT of money. And since it's for a good cause, I might as well spend a few minutes to ensure another $10 goes into the till for Adopt-A-Classroom.

Just like before, all it takes is a post or a comment by you to help this worthy cause. I'm doing my part by posting right here. If you feel like it's an intrusion, I apologize but it's for charity... on someone else's dime and I'm totally okay with that. Of course, since I know a few people who I think would help with this project, I'm calling them out! Julee and Marismom... think you can spare a minute to help with the virtual bag-it-forward program?

And YOU. Yes, YOU. If you have a few minutes, you can help too. Here's all you need to do:

ELMER’S VIRTUAL BAG IT FORWARD RULES
* Copy and paste these rules into your blog post or Facebook note.
* Create a post giving a “virtual bag of school supplies” to other bloggers or write about your Back to School shopping trip at Walmart.
* Link back to the person who gave you a bag of school supplies.
* Let each person you are giving a virtual bag of school supplies know you have given them a bag.
* Leave your link in the Elmer’s Virtual Bag It Forward comment section. You can also find the official rules of this virtual #bagitforward program there.
* Elmer’s is donating $10 for each blog participating in the Virtual Bag It Forward Donation to Adopt-A-Classroom (up to total of $10,000 for blog posts written by September 10,2010).
* Please note that only one blog post per blog url will count towards the donation.

So there you have it. That's all there is to it. $10 for Adopt-A-Classroom, thanks to Elmer's. I'm starting to feel like a bag lady with all these bags I'm giving away!

Disclosure: No compensation was received for this post other than the donation being made by Elmer's on my behalf. My name will be put in a drawing for a chance to win a computer.

Purpose - An Important Thing to Learn

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 14:29:00 +0000

Last month, in preparation for back-to-school, we had the opportunity to participate in a service campaign for DaySpring, the faith-based division of Hallmark. Essentially we received a stipend to purchase a backpack full of supplies for a family who might be having trouble affording school supplies for their school-bound child. Here's a sampling from my post:

From the time I was in sixth grade until I graduated from college, I attended a Catholic school. Through high school, we had dress codes so that all kids have a foundation of equality.

Equality. It's an important thing to learn.

We had rules there that we didn't have when I was at a public school. In 6th-8th grade, when the principal came to the classroom door, we were required to stand beside our desks and greet him. "Good morning, Father (principal)." When he responded, we were allowed to sit back down and resume our studies.

Respect. It's an important thing to learn.

I remember a lot about those years because it was so different than what we did at the public school. We started each day with a prayer and the Pledge.

Faith and allegiance. Important things to learn.

I'm not going to rehash the project but ask that you please read my post at SahmReviews.com highlighting how important it is to have purpose in our lives.

I was provided a stipend to participate and completed the task with great pride in my children. Aside from the charitable shopping trip campaign, DaySpring also has a public campaign running that includes a Virtual Bag-it-Forward. Something that everyone, people like you, can help with. And it doesn't cost you anything. DaySpring has agreed to donate up to $5,000 to Adopt-a-Classroom and all it takes is people like you going "Back-to-School with Purpose" by supplying a virtual bag of school supplies.

Huh? A what?

Seriously, it's easy. For each blog or Facebook note that is created for the Back-to-School with Purpose campaign, DaySpring will donate $10. All you need to do is write a Facebook note or a blog post that includes the following details:

DAYSPRING’S BACK TO SCHOOL WITH PURPOSE BLOG CAMPAIGN RULES:
* Copy and paste these rules to your blog post.
* Create a blog post or Facebook note about what it means to you to go Back to School WithPurpose and identify others who you feel are Living With Purpose in their lives – you can recognize as many individuals as you want.
* Link back to person who gave you a DaySpring Award
* Let each person you are recognizing know you have recognized them.
* Leave your link at btswithpurpose comment section. You can also find the official rules of this #WithPurpose blog campaign, and more information about Back to School with Purpose with DaySpring there.
* DaySpring is donating $10 for each blog or Facebook note participating in the Virtual Bag It Forward Donation to Adopt-A-Classroom (up to total of $5,000 for blog posts written by September 08, 2010).
* Please note that only one blog post per blog url will count towards the donation

When you're done, leave a comment on this post at DaySpring to ensure that your post is counted. No matter how good Google and Bing searches may be, DaySpring cannot possibly find all the posts. So to get your $10 virtual bag of supplies donated, you'll need to make sure you leave the link to it. If you create a Facebook post, just make sure you change the sharing option to "public" so that everyone can read it.

Yeah. It's THAT easy. This post - the one that you are reading right now - means $10 for Adopt-the-Classroom and I'm proud to say that I made a difference to someone.

Will you have a purpose and make a difference?

Disclosure: I did not personally receive any compensation for creating this post. However, as a result of this, DaySpring is donating $10 to Adopt-a-Classroom.

Have you checked in?

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 02:28:00 +0000

Places. As of a few days ago, it has a new meaning for a lot of people. If you have a smart phone and are accessing Facebook then you've probably already figured out that they launched a new feature called "Places". It just rolled out and is wrought with controversy.

If you haven't a clue what I'm talking about, let me briefly fill you in. Places allows people to announce via Facebook exactly where they are. "Checking-in" and announcing where you are isn't a new idea. Companies like Foursquare, Gowalla and Whrrl have set the groundwork for this and users have been posting their check-ins on Facebook. Seems only natural that Facebook would try to cash in on the craze.

Some people love this idea but I'm just not sold on it. I know a ton of people using Foursquare and Gowalla and I often joke that it's like an announcement that people can go rob your house. You're obviously not there.

Although Places isn't available here in the Quad Cities yet, it will be soon. When it is, I'm curious how many people will flock to using it. Me? Not a chance. At least not until they work out some things. While other location-based social networking programs allow you to personally check-in and work to achieve various titles, Places allows other people to check you in also. That kind of freaks me out. Friend or not, I'm not wild about the idea of someone else having control of announcing to their friends where I'm at.

But as much as I hate the idea of location-based social networking, I find myself drawn to Whrrl. At Whrrl, it isn't just about the check-in features; that's only one small part of a larger picture. On Whrrl, you're able to upload pictures and create stories related to your check-in. It's a very cool feature that I've used for both marketing campaigns as well as personal digital scrapbooking.

So how is it that I swear I won't use location-based apps yet I throw praise at Whrrl? You see, I can check-in, take advantage of specials and promotions, participate in recommendations people make, make recommendations of my own, join societies, create societies, post pictures and create slide shows yet not lose all my anonymity. Whrrl's "Just Me" option is what makes all the difference. No matter what I do, I'm able to choose the level that I want to share with Whrrl members, as well as whether I want to share on Twitter or Facebook. I'm also able to go back later and amend the privacy settings of a check-in to make it more (or less) public.

Over the course of the past month, I've found myself more and more interested in it. A Whrrl contest even prompted me to create a society of my own. After participating in various car-related activities, I decided to create a society called "Under the Hood". I couldn't find any society that involved automobile maintenance so I created Under the Hood and added the following description to it: "When you neglect your automobile, it will begin to neglect you! Don't forget about general service, oil changes, tires, car washes, window repairs, paint... It's all about taking care of our vehicles." Automobiles... That's what the Under the Hood Society is all about. If your business offers car-related services or sells car-related products, check out the merchant program to see if Whrrl can help drive customers through your door.

As a social media participant, you may decide that location-based services are a waste of time. You may find that Foursquare, Gowalla or one of the other services is best for you. You may decide to go with Facebook's Places feature. For me, I'll stick with Whrrl. It's well rounded, thought out and offers a lot of cool features.

...Now I'm waiting for all my favorite merchants to discover the benefits of it, too.

Back to School with Bonus Box Tops

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Sat, 07 Aug 2010 00:06:00 +0000

This is cross-posted on SahmReviews.com

It's time for the kids to head back to school. As much as they love each other, they're ready to not be in the same house with each other 24x7. And as much as I love them, I'm ready to have a quiet house for at least a few hours a day.

In preparation for back to school, we're stocking up on all the things we need. School supplies, clothes, shoes, backpacks... all those essentials.

Then the other day, I received an email from the school. The lunch schedule for August.

As I surveyed the schedule, I remembered that my girls aren't fans of all the cafeteria food. Miss M takes a lunch about 1-2 times per week and Miss K about 3-4 times.

Then I realized that I hadn't given any thought to lunches. A trip to Sam's Club was in order.

Perfect timing, too, because MyBlogSpark had a back-to-school campaign for General Mills and Sam's Club. Heck, figured I would be there anyhow so I might as well participate in the campaign!

General Mills has provided bonus boxtops on participating General Mills products. 6 extra box tops on each. While this might not mean much to parents without kids in school, those of us who do have kids greatly value the Box Tops 4 Education program.

I had some of the information in hand from MyBlogSpark but wanted to confirm with my local club since I didn't recall seeing anything in the local paper. We headed to the Sam's Club in Davenport, Iowa and I spoke with Linda at the customer service desk. Despite being very busy, she didn't mind spending a few minutes answering my questions.

While the schedule will vary by club, our Sam's Club organized their event to coincide with Iowa's Tax-Free weekend. That's this weekend! For people who upgrade to or sign up for a Plus membership from August 6-13th, they'll receive an additional 150 bonus box tops. 150! That's the equivalent of 150 boxes of Hamburger Helper. As an added bonus, our Sam's Club will include a free pepperoni pizza or rotisserie chicken to introduce you to their "Fresh" departments.

So why a Plus membership instead of a regular? Well, for one, the hours. You are allowed into the store when regular members are not. As someone who has done this, I have to say it's the best way to shop... quiet... not crowded... and often free coffee at the front door. Check out the membership page, but among other things, you also can participate in their eValues program.

I put together a Whrrl story to show you how our trip went!

Not sure if Sam's Club is your thing? They're having a free open house this weekend (Aug 6-8) for you to test the waters! That means no membership required and no add-on fee.

In the meantime, here's a chance to win a $25 gift card to put toward your next purchase at Sam's Club. Keep reading at SahmReviews.com for details on how to enter!

Disclosure: As a thank you for participating in this campaign, I was given a $25 Sam's Club gift card by Sam's Club and General Mills through MyBlogSpark at no charge. In addition, they offered to upgrade my account to a Plus Membership to take advantage of the bonus boxtops but I declined since I already have a business membership. They will still provide the bonus boxtops. In addition, an additional $25 gift card was supplied for the giveaway. No additional compensation was received. I've been a long-time Sam's member so the statements, comments and photos provided here are my own and were not impacted by MyBlogSpark or General Mills. Sam's Club, however, can take credit for the great service and club that make me keep coming back!

Are You Done Yet?

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 02:37:00 +0000

When I was in high school, my parents gave me the benefit of participating in Project Close Up. Aside from the government related things that I expected to learn, I attained one valuable piece of etiquette. As we prepared to eat one of the meals, I vaguely remember being told the proper way to indicate (for the servers) when we were done with our meal.

With this being a holiday weekend and a lot of people eating out or away from home, I thought it would be nice to share this. (Let's just hope I am remembering correctly.)

When you are done eating, place your knife on your plate, then cross the tip of the fork over the top of the knife, with the tines facing down.

More or less like I displayed in this picture... sometimes I end up with the handles a bit closer or off to the side. It all depends on whether there is food in the way, of course.

After searching Google, I haven't been able to find any pictures online. I read some posts that indicated to cross the utensils when done and one post that said you place both utensils side by side on the plate to indicate you're done. But no pictures.

Crossing them is how I remember it and this is what I always do. More often than not the server will either just take my plate away without interrupting my conversation or will say "Let me get that out of your way." It's much nicer than hearing "Are you done with that?" or "Are you still working on that?"

First, I'm curious if servers are taught to watch for utensil placement. I would also love to hear if I have remembered it correctly all these years later! And if I have... do they teach this any more?

Happy Easter!

Signs of Spring

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 21:57:00 +0000

Signs of Spring are in the air!
(or in our case... in the street)

And here's the view from above.
(Yes, I was too lazy to take the screen off the window.)

Ahhh... Spring. Being outdoors. Fresh air.

...And sidewalk chalk.

A New Slant on Technology

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 02:36:00 +0000

We know we're turning our kids into techno-geeks when we go to a fast food restaurant, get them a drink to share and hear this:

Let's do two-player!

But it gets even better...

Last week, I was playing with Miss K when she said pointed to the area she had designated as the play area and told me "Don't go off the screen."

The following day, while playing Littlest Pet Shop dolls with the girls, Miss M needed to run upstairs for something. She waived her hand over the play area and, without missing a beat, requested that we "Pause the game" until she got back.

Can't wait to hear what they come up with next.

Simple is as Simple Does

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 21:59:00 +0000

Considering that I'm a stay-at-home-mom, it's surprising to me that I don't have more time than I do. I mean, the kids are in school all day so how can I NOT manage to find time to keep an immaculate house, organize the finances, cook healthy and fabulous meals while maintaining a workout schedule?

I don't know why I can't. Each morning I wake up discouraged and go to bed wondering where the hours went. Am I spending a lot of time on Twitter or Facebook? Some, but not that much.

Do I sit on the couch eating bon bons and watching Oprah, Ellen or soaps all day? Heavens no. Days go by that I don't even turn on the TV while the kids are at school.

How is it that someone like Dara Torres can be an Olympic superstar, a mom and so much more without missing a beat? I guess it's because she incorporates tools into her life - like an HP Mini 311 laptop with Windows 7 on it.

Plus, she's just more organized. Can't get to be an Olympian with cluttered and disorganized methods of training and living. Right?

In the "Simplify My Life Sweepstakes", Mom Bloggers Club is working in conjunction with HP and Microsoft to offer three bloggers (and three lucky readers) the opportunity to walk away with their very own HP Mini 110-1100 by Studio Tord Boontje PCs.

Do I need my life simplified? While I would love to say that I staged this photo for dramatic effect, I didn't. My desk is seriously always this chaotic. (Psst... HP - notice the snazzy HP Photosmart D5160 in the corner. Hubby says we can hook it up to his computer instead but I like it too much to let him have it.) In addition to bills and blog stuff, my desk becomes the depository of school stuff that needs to be sifted through. Nobody to blame but myself though because I'm usually the one who puts it there.

How would winning this help me get organized? My desktop computer would be regifted to hubby who seriously needs a new computer... bought a new external hard drive for him for Christmas because his computer has crashed so many times in the past year that I was afraid we would eventually end up losing all our digital media (AKA photos and video of the kids since birth). The HP laptop would become my primary computer - taking up much less space in my small kitchen desk area. I would also be able to take it along to the kids' lessons and practices to be able to get some work (AKA blogging) done while not at home. But even more, I love the new Windows 7. Many people are skeptical about switching operating systems, but this one is phenomenal. From the way it helps organize media to the ability to easily put windows side-by-side for dual-tasking.

How else would it help? This HP is so portable, I could even lift it up and carry it into the kitchen to look up and use new recipes - running "How-To" videos as I cook.

Do I need it? If I have to be honest, I'll say no. Simplifying my life would probably include having NO computers at my disposal. Simple is as simple does. But since having NO computer isn't reasonable, a quality HP laptop with Windows 7 on it will be the next best thing. Mom Bloggers Club, HP and Windows 7 - please help Simplify My Life!

Want a chance to win also? Just leave a comment on my post or any of the other participants. Three winners will be randomly selected from all the entries at Mom Bloggers Club. Be sure to Tweet that you entered!

So We Teach the Kids to Cheat

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 22:31:00 +0000

First, I want to say thank you to anyone who voted for me to win the HP TouchSmart computer. In case you didn't see the comments attached to the prior post, the contest was deemed null and void and nobody won.

It was quite a messy thing, actually. The nature of the contest - the voting process - is designed to encourage viral marketing. Spread the word to help a friend out. Post everywhere you can think of in order to garner the most votes. The front runner when the contest was closed has a large fan base on YouTube as well as the backing of his gaming community. A few of us were working various Mom Blogging communities, Craigslist, various hobby forums and other networks. I even found out that my brother put in a plea to his business associates just so I would “owe him” if I happened to win. If you’re a sibling, you totally understand the notion of holding something over another siblings head.

Unfortunately, the problem with such voting programs is there isn't any real control over the actual votes. Hackers can do anything and blog widgets like these don’t exactly have Fort Knox security built in. So guess what happened... there was vote tampering. The guy who was in the lead had people openly bragging about having voted for him multiple times with one even offering to show others how easy it is. To make matters worse, it was discovered that someone (or multiple people) were running scripts to hike the votes. HighTechDad was able to easily locate and remove 2000 votes from the guy in the lead but he didn't run through it with a fine tooth comb. But before he even had a chance to do so, his site was hammered by an automated system that not only shut down his site but caused his service provider to suspend his account altogether. Basically, he declared the guy in front to be the winner and within minutes, the attack on his site halted. After reviewing additional information and the subsequent cease-fire once he announced the winner, he decided the contest was null and void. Although I would have preferred to win it, I'm glad that it ended the way it did rather than the front runner unduly being given the prize.

I hated that people were cheating, but what bothered me most is that it was being done by kids. When HighTechDad announced the winner (and the site attack stopped), it pretty much showed those kids that yes, cheaters could still win. Although the guy in the lead may or may not have been involved in the cheating didn't really matter. The fact that people... kids... cheated on his behalf just set a bad example. When he saw those kids bragging about it, he should have blasted them. Blocked them as friends. Publicly scolded them. Contacted their parents if he knew how. Taught them a lesson in values and ethics.

Although I would have preferred a charity receive this in lieu of nobody, I'm glad HighTechDad opted NOT to show kids that it's okay to cheat... or even to stand for someone cheating on your behalf. Regardless of whether you were aware of it or not.

Do you have a minute to spare?

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 03:59:00 +0000

Every once in a while, something comes along that has the potential to really make your day. Since I tend to spend a bit of time entering contests on various blogs, sometimes I win fun things like movie passes, gadgets or board games.

Well, tonight I found out that I'm a finalist to win a new HP TouchSmart computer from HighTechDad and HP. Just in time for Christmas, too. It's very exciting to be name one of 10 finalists. Yes, I have a 1 in 10 chance of winning. Sort of.

It's a popularity contest. The person with the most votes this Thursday at noon Pacific time will win. I hate popularity contests. But I feel like I have a great network of friends in the blogging community that can help me win. It only takes like a minute to click over and vote. There are no strings attached, you don't even have to leave your name. It's so easy that even a cave... (I hate those commercials but it just seems to fit here.)

So all that I'm asking is for you to Click here and vote. I'm #7 (SahmReviews)

...and hopefully, you'll spread the word to friends and have them vote too.

Thanks!

If I had to do it all again...

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 23:38:00 +0000

I don't consider myself one to get writer's block but I do get overwhelmed and find that I just do not make time for writing. Today, however, I'm writing a letter to my younger self. Why? Well, I could say that it's because I'm inspired by the holidays... but that wouldn't be entirely honest. I'm actually entering a contest at Chocolate Covered Daydreams where someone will win a Wii Fit Plus. It's not a random drawing, but is being judged. Of course, I'm hoping that all the winner will be me but this contest had an unexpected outcome. Once I started composing the letter in my head, I realized it was pretty therapeutic. I went back and changed my letter entirely. With that, here's my letter to my younger self:

===================================
Dear teenage Nicole,

What would you think if I said that 25 years from now, you'll be married to a fantastic man, have two beautiful daughters, have seen some wonderful places and be retired? As you look around, that doesn't seem very realistic, does it? You feel unpopular, ugly and sad. But I'm here to tell you that it's all true. It will happen if you stay on the right path.

You're going through a rough time, I know. I remember. But seriously, it's really not as bad as it seems. The braces will come off and you'll shed the glasses for contacts. You'll do great in school, too. Believe it or not, you WILL eventually have a boyfriend. You'll smile with confidence and make people feel at ease around you.

But I'm not going to say everything is rosy. The hard truth is that you'll find more difficulties in the future, too. Depression, an eating disorder, financial strains, infertility and depression (again) to name a few. But you'll get through it and you'll come out stronger on the other side. Alongside your husband, you'll become financially savvy. Your children will make you feel old and young at the same time. You'll see some family members leave way before their time and others live to see great-grandchildren.

Just keep a few things in mind:
- You're not perfect. Nobody is.
- You won't have the perfect life. Nobody does.
- Realize there's a difference between being hard on yourself and beating yourself up.
- You're a good person, even when you are at your lowest.
- You'll have some friends who stand with you and help you... you'll have others who use you and abandon you.
- Experience will show you that life is not fair. Some people lie and cheat to get ahead while others work hard just to make ends meet. You will get passed over for job promotions but something better will come along if you maintain a positive attitude.

It all works out eventually.

When I started this letter, I had every intention of telling you YES, apply for West Point or Harvard like you (will) consider. But then I realized that the decisions you're about to make... that I DID make... got US to where we are now. And if I had to do it all over again, I would. The same way. With all the mistakes, hardships and all.

I'll close this letter by simply saying "Hang in there. Just keep your chin up and have hope because good things happen to good people."

Sincerely,
A much older, much wiser and much more confident you.

Do You Shop Zappos.com?

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 03:54:00 +0000

Every time I turn around, I swear I'm hearing about Zappos.com. They started off selling shoes but now they've extended into housewares, too. It's only a matter of time before they add electronics and whatever else. Why do I say that? Because earlier this month, Amazon completed the acquisition of them.

I've never purchased from Zappos.com. I've never done a review for their products on SahmReviews.com, my review blog. I don't even participate in their affiliate programs. But by way of my public relations contacts, I do receive information about various promotions and contests they are running. As part of a recent press release, I found out that for THIS WEEKEND ONLY, they have opened up their VIP Club registration. Free. The offer is only available until midnight on 11/30.

So what? You don't shop there? As I said, neither do I. But once upon a time, I didn't shop at Amazon, either. And now that Amazon owns Zappos, who knows what will come. Who knows what the VIP program will bring in the long term. What I DO KNOW is that their VIP program offers free overnight shipping for life. Seriously.

I'm not being paid to share this information and I'm certainly not getting any cool products (or I would be talking about this on SahmReviews.com!) I'm sharing it because I think it's a great opportunity. Go ahead and sign up for the VIP program. It doesn't cost anything.

Oh... and by the way, once upon a time Amazon only sold books.

To the Bettendorf Box Scrounge

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:36:00 +0000

Dear Box Scrounge in Bettendorf,

I woke up this morning to find cardboard strewn across my driveway. Thank you very much for putting your need for boxes over the clean way I attempted to recycle my cardboard.

You see, that very nice huge box that you took was holding all my other recyclable cardboard. When you took that box, you left behind an unsightly, unorganized mess. Thankfully, there weren't strong winds last night carrying my cardboard all across the neighborhood.

If you were in need of boxes, you could have come during the daylight hours, knocked on my door and asked. I would have said "Sure, I know what it's like to need boxes during a move or cleanup project." I probably would have even logged onto the local Craigslist and done a search for moving boxes. Then I would have given you my boxes and found another way to keep my cardboard organized for the recycling man.

If you found it necessary to take boxes in the middle of the night, you could have at least had the courtesy to bring twine along and clean up the mess you left behind.

What ever happened to common sense?

Sincerely,
Nicole, Bettendorf resident

How to Repair a Trick-or-Treat Pumpkin

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 20:35:00 +0000

It's trick-or-treat time! We own two orange pumpkins and one purple pumpkin. After careful discussion, the girls mutually agreed that Miss M would use the purple pumpkin for last night's festivities and Miss K could use it tonight.

...Except that Miss M managed to break the handle last night. Both girls were disappointed.

So superdad, DH, promised to fix it so Miss K could use it tonight.

To the untrained eye, this is just a Halloween trick-or-treat pumpkin. No big deal, right? Well... all you geeks out there will appreciate how DH fixed it!

(Yes, he created a handle out of Cat5 cable then crimped network ends to it to hold it in place. If we need to hook up a computer while we're trick-or-treating, we're totally set. Gotta love having a geek husband.)

Tooth Fairy's First Visit

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole Brady) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:38:00 +0000

Last Friday morning, Miss M lost her first tooth!