I have punctured the heart and soul of the one I love so dearly.  And in the aftermath… This is all that remains.

Love kills… And this is the evidence.

I have a confession.  I have the decorating skills of a 19 year old frat boy that was raised by a pack of rabid wolves.  It’s true.  I would show you photographic evidence but a) I don’t really take pictures of my decor (for obvious reasons) and b) I am kind of lazy (which could offer a perfect explanation for my decorating skills).  That being said… I do appreciate pretty things, beautiful decor, and most of all my children’s smiling happy faces.

With Mother’s Day fast approaching I can’t think of a better way to incorporate all 3 of those things into an awesome gift for some lucky mother’s in my life.  Thanks to UPrinting canvas prints (available stretched and ready to hang, or rolled and ready to frame) I can do that while keeping in touch with another one of my passions… Saving money (you totally thought I was going to say unicorns… didn’t you?).  Because their prices on canvas???  It’s pretty awesome.  Maybe if I throw of few of these bad boys up on the walls my awful paint job will no longer be noticeable. (okay… I would totally get a unicorn printed on canvas)  And while I’m at it I should probably get a few custom postcards made of my cute kids… Because who wouldn’t want to get their faces in the mail?  (I am totally going to make unicorn postcards too.  I can use them to mail little notes to the family when I am out of town.  YAY!)

Giveaway Time

Like I mentioned above… You have basically hit the jackpot.  UPrinting is giving away some of their best printed items and a NEW iPad.  I am actually a LOT jealous that I can’t enter.  But my loss is your gain.  And it proves just how much I (okay UPrinting) really really REALLY loves you.

Thanks to Rafflecopter and the other 4 other partnering sites (including SNAP!)  you have about a gazillion ways to enter (I am of course only slightly {okay a lot} exaggerating).  But the best part??? Instead of having to comment a bajillion times you can just enter you Facebook info and click a few times and be entered to win.  SUPER duper easy huh?

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Of course there is some fine print:

This is a sponsored conversation written on behalf of UPrinting, however all opinions and text are my own.

No purchase is necessary.

• Odds of winning are based on number of entries.
• Winner chosen at random using Raffelcopter.
• This giveaway begins: 3/30/12 and ends 4/05/12
• You must be a 18 years or older to be eligible to win.
• Prize will be shipped by the sponsor and SNAP! assumes no responsibility for the value of or delivery of aforementioned prize

So what the heck are you waiting for?  Enter, Enter, ENTER!  And good luck… May the unicorns be with you.

Which led to me getting this email today: (names have been changed… except my own)

Dear Stephanie,

I hope it is not too forward for me to email you directly — but I have to thank you for your YouTube video on how to access the gas tank on a Chevy Malibu.  It absolutely saved me and my best friend — she is pregnant with her first child and was flying up to see me for a much anticipated “babymoon” — but called me in a panic en route to the airport because she could not find the lever to open the gas tank on her rented Malibu.  I myself was panicked because she was already incredibly late for her flight.  Not knowing what else to do, I googled “how do you open the gas tank on a chevy malibu” and lo and behold, your video popped up.

She filled the tank and made it to the airport with not one minute to spare == literally.  In other words, had we not seen your video she would have certainly missed the flight and the fun weekend we had planned.

All of this is to say, THANK YOU for posting such a helpful video == please know that we will always think of it and of you when we remember having such a special weekend!

With best wishes,

Awesome Video Watcher

Yup… I now have written proof that me being a raging idiot has saved someone.  It was really all the validation I needed to go out and do more stupid.

But I realize that some of you aren’t hopeless… And that is why these FREE interior design seminars from RC Willey are just perfect for you.  Even better… You can come and decorate my whole house after you become a magnificent designer.

Now to the all important details:

• Wednesday, March 21st-”The Appeal Of Minimalist Decorating”
• Wednesday, March 28th-”The Wow Factor: Fresh Color-What makes a room stand out”

Everyone who attends will receive a $25 gift card as well as the chance to win an additional $50 gift card. 

The seminars will be held at all Utah locations of RC Willey (except the outlet locations).  Here is a handy dandy link to find the store closet to you.

Who knows… Maybe they will invite me to do their next seminar… It will be called “Unicorn Chic”.

Raising Hope

Have you ever watched this show?  Well up until I was stuck in bed I had not either.  And seriously… What was wrong with me?  It is a bit raunchy, super sarcastic, and totally inappropriate.  Basically… It’s me in a TV show.  Now I am all caught up and slightly addicted (to the show… not to the percocet).

Justified

I am a sucker for shows about US Marshalls.  And this show is no exception.  My only question… How did 3.5 seasons happen without me knowing about this?  And I will answer you question.  Yup… I watched all 3.5 seasons while recuperating.  There is no shame in that.  And if you can handle a couple swears… a lot of guns… and a whole load of AWESOME… I recommend coming down with some sort of ailment that will leave you bedridden with nothing better to do than watch this show.

Game Of Thrones

Are you sensing a theme here?  Yes… I watched TONS of TV.  But at least it wasn’t soap operas… right?   This show may not be for everyone seeing that it has some boobies… A BUNCH of swears… Lots of blood… You know everything that makes a show freaking awesome?  I just have one acronym to describe this show… OMG!  And I literally cannot wait for season 2.

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo

I didn’t spend my whole recovery rotting my brain with mind numbingly amazing television.  I also decided to take in a little European culture… In the form of a good book.  I figured it was time to see what all the hype was about.  And the hype was right.  Thoroughly entertaining and captivating book.

 The Girl With The Tiffany Glasses

All that reading led me to the conclusing that old age has started to set in.  In the form of a giant nasty headache.  Yup… It was time for me to get old lady glasses… I am farsighted.

]]> http://www.thedailyblarg.com/2012/03/since-ive-been-gone.html/feed 7 http://www.thedailyblarg.com/2012/03/since-ive-been-gone.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheDailyBlarg/~3/E0sidofYTIA/closed-for-organ-donation-basically.html http://www.thedailyblarg.com/2012/02/closed-for-organ-donation-basically.html#comments Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:18:07 +0000 Steph http://www.thedailyblarg.com/?p=2031 So I have obviously been “not around” lately.  Why?  Because my life isn’t all rainbows, glitter, and unicorns right now.  And when the sparkle’s gone so is my will to blog.  It’s amazing what a lack of glitter can do to a gal. Well this gal is preparing for the donation of her gallbladder… To the freaking garbage can. (side note:  Is a gallbladder an organ?)  (side side note: What exactly do they do with unwanted body organs?)

That is the creepiest and angriest gallbladder ever.  I expect mine to look exactly the same… only with sharp jagged teeth.

With that I have decided to officially close up shop (as opposed to just leaving the space blank with no explanation) for the next 2-3 weeks as I have surgery scheduled for Friday and then a short recovery period.

And who knows… If you are lucky maybe I will bless you with some awesome post surgery, drugged up vlogs.

Until then… Steph Out.

I am sure by now you have heard or at least seen some of the other amazing posts about the upcoming Story @ Home Conference that is coming up in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Maybe you only journal, maybe you have a family blog, maybe you scrapbook, maybe you just want to dip your toes into the realm of story telling on your blog.  Maybe you want to share your story with the world (or your family) through blogging.  It’s your story… Tell it.  The Story @ Home Conference is here to help.

The Deets:

• March 9th and 10th, 2012
• Held at Temple Square in the Conference Center Theater and Joseph Smith Memorial building in Salt Lake City, Utah
• Tickets are the SWEET price of $79 (does not include meals but there will be awesome coupons in your conference bag)
• Register Here
• The nearby Plaza Hotel is offering a discounted room rate of only $79 per night.
• The speakers and classes are top notch… Can you say CJane, Rachael, Tauni, Kim, and Lindsey just to name a few?

Now I know you want to go.   Who wouldn’t?  The price is right.  The sessions are jam packed with amazing.

Giveaway Time:

I am giving away 1 ticket to the Story @ Home Conference in March.  It’s easy to enter… Just fill out the form below.

***Don’t forget to “like” Story @ Home on Facebook for updates and just awesome in general.

***Giveaway runs through Midnight on February 21st, 2012.  Winner will be notified via email.

So you’re all caught up… right?

I have a feeling after watching the trailer for the new movie UNITARDS I will still giggle after thinking of a unitard.  Only in a whole new way.

I admit… I am a sucker for movies shot in Utah.  I just instantly think they are awesome.  And I feel famous… Even though I am not in the movie.  But I live in the same state.  That totally makes me famous by choice of home placement.  UNITARDS was shot at Skyline High and 90% of the cast was actually chosen from open auditions at the school.

UNITARDS is family friendly film and ever since my boys saw the trailer they have wanted to go.  In fact I recall them laughing hysterically while we were sitting in the theater as the preview came on.  And they instantly recognized it was filmed in Utah.  When I told them we were going to attend the premiere they actually squeed a little. (well as much as a teenage boy can squee)  Oh ya… you have a chance to come with us.  Read more at bottom of the post.

And you don’t have to just believe me that UNITARDS is going to be epic.  It has already won several awards from film festivals around North America.  Can you say Best Feature Film Award and Best Actor Award?  Just to name a couple.

You don’t have to wait long to see what all the UNITARDS buzz is about.  UNITARDS opens, in select theaters, January 27th, 2012…. But you don’t even have to wait that long.  You have a chance to attend the UTAH PREMIERE on January 25th at Jordan Commons in Sandy, Utah. (at 7pm)

Giveaway Time!!!

I am giving away 2 passes (good for 2 tickets each) for the UNITARDS premiere.  Details:

• 7pm on January 25th, 2012
• Jordan Commons Theater in Sandy, Utah

Entering is easy.  Just fill out the form below:

And feel free to show UNITARDS some love by liking it on Facebook.

Giveaway ends at midnight on 1/22/12.  Winners will be notified via email. 

Recently I attended a cooking class by Michelle Huxtable at the GORGEOUS Thanksgiving Point in Utah.  And Michelle happens to be the author of “The Gathering of Friends” Cookbooks.  One thing I noticed about Michelle was how at home she was in the kitchen.  She loves cooking and you can tell when she is mixing up salad (with her WASHED hands) that it is kind of second nature to her.

And of course Michelle’s love of cooking translates into some amazing tasting food.  Not only do her recipes taste good but they also create beautiful food.  Here are just a few of the delights we sampled that day.  (I have to add that I was so full… so so so full but I couldn’t stop eating)

 So I know what you are thinking… It must be so hard to make this yummy food.  But, The Gathering of Friends Cookbooks all have simple and very approachable recipes.  They are the perfect gift for anyone who loves food, likes to cook, or wants to be a whiz in the kitchen.  I have been browsing through Volume 4 over the last few days and already have a few I HAVE to make.  And so many of the photos are actually taken at the beautiful Thanksgiving Point gardens.  It is such a pretty book.  Michelle and her daughter Abby definitely outdid themselves creating this book.  And they are pretty adorable themselves.

Now that I have you all salivating… You want to go get this cookbook, right?  Well, you can order all of them through The Gathering of Friends website through tomorrow (12/21) to get it before Christmas.   Or if you are in Utah… Head on over to Thanksgiving Point and pick one up now.  It is the PERFECT last minute gift idea.

***I was provided with a free cooking class and copy of The Gathering of Friends Cookbook Volume 4.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I have never shared this before… But my husband is a little obsessed with using his neti-pot.  He started using one about 3 years ago at the urging of a friend.  His friend suggested it after Brian detailed the chore it was to blow his nose.  (I won’t go into the gory details… but it involved snorting water. I will pause for a moment while you go vomit.)  Seriously, the man couldn’t just blow his nose like a normal person.  It required advanced planning, paper towels, and a whole lotta hassle.  Why?  Because that was the only way he could get a satisfying blow… Now enter the neti-pot…

He has replacing snorting water with a magical pot of specially balanced salt water that gently cleanses his sinuses.  He still can’t just “blow” his nose… but at least the practice is a little less disgusting (only because it is far more medical and therefore socially acceptable… Just like boob jobs are more acceptable than using tissue in your bra.  Everything medical is better… right?) We have been sailing along on the clear sinus trail for the last three years until this article came out.

I know… I know… It is caused by the fluid used to irrigate your sinuses.  Not the neti-pot itself.  But guess who doesn’t use distilled water in his daily nose care regimen?  Oh ya… THIS GUY!  Tap water all the way.

So Merry Christmas Brian.  You have a brain eating amoeba.  And here I let you get that 60 inch TV for Christmas for NOTHING!

***My husband doesn’t really have a brain eating amoeba… Well that I know of.

Now if anyone was thinking about surprising me for Christmas a puppy flash mob would do the trick.  I am sure Brian is on the phone with his closest dog friends right now trying to make this happen.  I really should have not put this out on the internet.  It’s likely that someone is going to steal my idea and make a puppy flash mob… and because it will be so freaking adorable I won’t have any choice but to promote said flash mob.

And since I don’t have a puppy flash mob to suprise you all with today I figured this would be the next thing… T-Mobile recently surprised patrons of a Chicago area mall with an amazing performance of ”Home for the Holidays”.  It’s pretty awesome.  Almost as awesome as puppies.

“This post is sponsored by T-Mobile.”

I wasn’t joking… it doesn’t get much more “blank” than this.

My biggest challenge with decorating for holidays is Brian.  He really doesn’t like decorations.  This is where you can send me lots and lots of luck. I should also use a disclaimer that I am not a decorator by any means.  There are several rooms in my home that look as if a frat boy was in charge of the decor.   I was a little nervous that all my items wouldn’t really “mesh” when I started my project this morning.

 Cue the “I have no idea what I am doing here” music.

I decided to just jump in and do it.   The items I purchased are fab… Not even I could mess it up, right?

See… I already messed up!  I guess people iron tablecloths?  I don’t know.  I think the fold marks add character.  And the pine cones????  Cinnamon scented.  Seriously heavenly.

 It took me a couple tries to figure out the whole sconce situation.  But I think I chose wisely.

I love the way candle’s twinkle.  And smell.  And living with all boys things that smell good are pretty rare around these parts.

 Finished YAY!

I am overall pleased with my finished product.  And loved the fact that I got it all at Kmart for about half of what I wanted to spend!  It is still very functional for family dinners and isn’t too over the top so Brian won’t gouge his eyes out.  And thus far it is the MOST decorated part of my home.  Please send me some tree mojo soon.  I need it.

***This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias. #CBias But all the superstar elfiness is my own… because that is how I roll.

Now everytime I see the American Cancer Society birthday videos I can’t help but choke up… Okay I would have probably choked up before my scare.  I wanted to share the one with Ricky Martin in it… And yes it is because I have had a long standing crush on him ever since he was on General Hospital.  Hot is hot… Throw in some shaking of bon bons and it’s FIRE.  Dang… now I have to go find that video on YouTube.

***This post is sponsored by the American Cancer Society.
****All thoughts and opinions are my own

In an attempt to cheer myself I have been watching some bad lip reading… Because what is more funny then dubbed over politicians thanks to some really BAD LIP READING?  You can thank me later after you have watched this one with Michele Bachmann about 100 times and giggled incessantly.

“Mama get’s a what what!”

There are so many pictures of the event I am having a hard time picking a few.  So instead I will bombard the post with delightful collages of all my social media BFFs enjoying the evening.

 As you can see from just a few of the photos the event was a BLAST. All that fun made us work up an appetite.  Thankfully I brought enough food to feed a small army… Including custom T-Mobile cupcakes! (Thanks Brian for hauling it all in for me.)

Some of the favorite moments at the event were playing games.  I really have to give a HUGE shout out to the employees at the South Towne Center T-Mobile store.  Who would have thought learning and playing games about holiday shopping tips could be fun?  But honestly, it was really enjoyable and I learned a thing or two.  Which is surprising since I thought I knew EVERYTHING.

Don’t worry!  I will share some of the T-Mobile holiday shopping tips and tricks with you.  I am nice like that.  Plus, I want to be an elf when I grow up.  Sharing puts me right on the path to chief elfdom.  But before that I have to give a huge congrats to the winners of the 5 Android phones that were prizes at the event… I felt pretty elfy drawing those names.

Tips for buying and giving a mobile device

A smartphone or tablet is a gift with a personal touch that can help people stay connected long after the holiday season. Shopping for one doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated.  Selecting the right device is simply a matter of knowing how to decipher the person’s mobile style, asking the right questions and talking to the experts.  T-Mobile has a variety of devices this holiday season.  There is really something for everyone!  Here are a few of my favorite tips and tricks from the experts at T-Mobile:

Key questions to review with your sales associate:

• What does my rate plan cover?
• What kind of speeds/data am I getting?
• What is the exchange/return policy?
• How much will my monthly payments/charges be?
• What are roaming charges?
• What are your warranty/insurance policies?

Tips to keep in mind when buying a device for yourself or as a gift:

• Switching to a new phone doesn’t mean you will lose all the information on your old phone.  T-Mobile retail associates can use a device to seamlessly move your information from one phone to another.
• If you make calls to people outside of the country consider a pre-paid plan to control your costs.  T-Mobile offers a variety of pre-paid international plans.
• Do you need to figure out what data plan is best for you?  T-Mobile offers a data calculator so you can figure out the best plan for you.  http://www.t-mobile.com/Tools/MBCalculator.aspx
• Smartphones have come far in the last few years.  They have so many advanced features and often serve multiple purposes.  T-Mobile has smartphones with advanced cameras that can be an alternative to standard point and shoot cameras.  They also work as mobile hotspots (my personal fave), music players, and GPS navigators.  Consider what features you would use the most when making your decision.

Probably my favorite part about T-Mobile is all of the great family options.  Being a parent to teenagers can be stressful.  Picking out a phone for my kids can be even MORE stressful.  Thankfully T-Mobile has tips and tricks for that too:

Giving a child their first cell phone, especially a smartphone, can be a big decision as a parent.  T-Mobile offers safety and control applications that empowers families to keep each other safe and responsible by encouraging behaviors that benefit the whole family.  Plus, allows parents the flexibility to maintain control on their own terms.

• DriveSmart Plus-Distracted driving is dangerous, especially with new drivers.  DriveSmart manages distractions by silencing incoming notifications, sending callers to voicemail and auto responding to text messages.  There is automatic driving detection and parents parental control options.  (including notification of cell phone use while driving)
• FamilyWhere-Perfect if you have ever wondered where your kids are.  It allows parents to track the location of any phone on their plan.  You can set reminders to check where your kids are and see activity up to 7 days back.

I could just go on and on and on about what I learned.  But instead I want to know what are some of your favorite tips or advice you like to give when buying tech gadgets?

***I was compensated by T-Mobile for participation in this campaign.

So my task of running to Kmart to find the perfect Christmas table top decor was going to be a difficult one.  I had to get something that was simple and functional for Brian and screamed “I LOVE Christmas” for me.  I was a beginning to think that becoming a brain surgeon may be easier.  Thankfully there were so many options at my local Kmart… My worries were for nothing.  I even had a lot of fun shopping. (Which is basically like a normal person saying that breaking their arm was fun.  I usually don’t like shopping.)  There were lots of sparkly and shiny objects to keep me entertained.  And I was able to find the PERFECT items.

 I was able to get a pretty tablecloth, candles, 3 glass goblets, scented pine cones (WHAT???  They smell so freaking good), a place mat (or a display mat as I will use it), and a glass votive for a KILLER DEAL.  Like about half of what I expected to spend because of sale prices.

Now comes the real challenge… Turning this table into a holiday masterpiece that both Brian and I will LOVE.  But with all the stuff I scored it shouldn’t be that hard… right?

I guess we will all find out on the 12th when I post the finished project.  Wish me luck.  I need it.

This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias. #CBias … Everything else is all me.

When my wife asked me if I would guest post on her blog I thought it might be hard to come up with a post with unicorns and puppies. Luckily she had a great opportunity to for me to post about something a little bit more manly than that. She told me that I would be doing a post for STP. “Like the motor treatment guys?” I asked. “Yes, those guys.” she replied.

I cant think of anything more manly that taking care of your cars. Well that and Richard Petty. As a lifelong NASCAR fan, I have grown up around racing and I know that STP and Richard Petty are like bread and butter.

I have to admit that I am a sucker for engine additives of all types. I am not that much of a gearhead to be able to rebuild an entire engine or anything but engine additives are an easy way to do a little extra between the scheduled appointments to the car shop. I always find something to add to the tank before taking a long road-trip or between seasons.

While we were out running errands, getting the oil changed in the Suburban and safety/emissions testing, we stopped by Walmart to grab a few items. I am convinced it is impossible to go to Walmart and just buy one thing. We picked up a bottle of STP Multipurpose Motor Treatment in the automotive section. I had never tried this particular one before, but I had tried similar products. The first thing I noticed is that it cost less than the others. Of course, I grabbed a some windshield de-icer and some other shiny objects that jumped into my basket. However, I did exercise some self control and did not buy the 12V auxiliary heater that I saw …maybe next time. (Steph edit-You can see our entire shopping excursion here)

Did I mention I bought a new comb and some kitty litter? See, it’s the Walmart syndrome. The cashier must think that I have a cat with messy hair and take good care of my cars. While I do take good care of my cars, I will never have a cat-beast, nor will my hair ever unkempt in public. These are rules to live by.

It’s getting colder here in Utah but there hasn’t been much snow yet so it’s time to give the yard one last mow and pick up all of the leaves and then put the lawnmower away. This would be a perfect opportunity to treat the lawnmower before storing it for the winter.

When we got home, I poured the STP Multipurpose Motor Treatment into my lawn mower, topped it off with gas and started it up. It was that easy. That’s why engine additives always appeal to me. It’s like taking vitamins …but for your engine.

I should tell you that I have 2 lawnmowers; one is 16 years old and the other is 14 (that joke never gets old). Needless to say that with these guys running the lawnmower it has been through the ringer in the last few years as they run over cans and newspapers, sprinkler heads and rocks. The mower has seen better days. It’s a good mower though and continues to perform even with the abuse. The mower smoked a bit when it started but seemed to even out as I continued to mow. I felt good that I was giving the mower some TLC before giving it a rest for the season. I think it’s a guy thing to assign feelings and emotions to yard hardware, isn’t it?

I didn’t use all of the STP Multipurpose Motor Treatment in the lawnmower since it only takes 3/4 cup per gallon. I save the rest for my PT Cruiser commuter car. If you think the lawn mower takes a beating, you should see the PT Cruiser. That will be a post for another day. I pour all sorts of stuff into that car.

• STP is offering a coupon for ‘liking’ their Facebook page; check it out. To be honest, I spent over an hour there watching the Richard Petty videos and interviews. Check ‘em out if you dig that sort of thing.
• STP also has a Twitter account.  I spent more time following some of the awesome links from there too.

***This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias. All of the opinions are my own, especially the opinions about The King of NASCAR – Richard Petty #CBias

T-Mobile myTouch Q and myTouch giveaway near bottom of post…

I have been a T-Mobile subscriber for over 3 years now.  You already know I love to take pictures with my T-Mobile phone and I adore the parental control options… But did you know that in my time with T-Mobile I have had a Sidekick, jailbroken iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and now the T-Mobile myTouch Slide 4g?  Of all those phones… The myTouch is easily my favorite.  The camera is amazing.  It is reliable.  The 4g speeds are amazing.  And the Android interface is extremely easy to use.  I will likely never change… I am loyal like that.  It is easy to be loyal to a company when you spend hours researching plans and phones to discover what is just right for you.  For me, T-Mobile, and now the myTouch is just that.

Now I have a chance to gush about my favorite T-Mobile phones and features at a fab event I am throwing this week.  And just in time for the holidays I also have the opportunity to share the T-Mobile myTouch love with 2 of my readers with a truly awesome giveaway.  You have the chance to win a myTouch Q:

A few of the features that stand out for me on the myTouch Q are:

• Set-up wizard for email and social networks with have you tweeting and Facebooking your hearts out in a matter of minutes.
• 3.5 inch touch screen
• Qwerty keyboard that slides out for those who prefer the feel of real buttons. (I personally never slide out my keyboard)
• 5-megapixel camera that also shoots 720p HD videos.  With built the built in YouTube app and 4g speeds you can share that special video in no time flat.

You also have a chance to win the T-Mobile myTouch: (you aren’t seeing things… I am giving away 2 amazing Android powered phones)

Just a few of the features to love on the myTouch:

• Large 3.8 inch touch screen.
• Swype for easy text input (probably one of my favorite Android features… and makes for some AWESOME auto-corrects)
• Full HTML Web browser
• TeleNav GPS Navigator (for times when your car GPS fails you and you find yourself in New Mexico)

GIVEAWAY Time:

2 lucky people are going to win an Android powered phone from T-Mobile.  You are entering to win either an myTouch or myTouch Q from T-Mobile.  I will be choosing 2 winners that meet the following entry requirements (and leave a comment they did so):

• Follow @TMobile on Twitter
• Like the T-Mobile Facebook page. http://facebook.com/TMobile
• Answer the following question in the comment section: What is the biggest question you have when it comes to buying a wireless product as a gift?

Easy huh?  You can also earn extra entries by doing the following (and leave a separate comment for each entry):

• Tweet about the giveaway and provide a link to your tweet.
• Subscribe to my blog (or be a current subscriber)

Plus… If you like my kind of neglected fan page on Facebook I will pretty much love you forever:  http://www.facebook.com/thedailyblarg

Giveaway will end on Monday, December 5th at Midnight MST.  Winners will be notified via email and have 48 hours to respond.  If no response is recorded than another winner will be chosen. Available for US readers only.

***I am being compensated by T-Mobile for participation in this promotion.

But times have changed.  Carmex isn’t just for your lips anymore… They now have a Carmex Skin Care featuring Carmex Healing Cream and Carmex Healing Lotion to care for the rest of your skin.  And now that winter is approaching and I am bound to turn into some sort of scaly lizard alien… I need help.  I have to admit that I am not a fan of super thick and goopy lotions so I was a bit worried.  But the Carmex Healing Lotion went on and didn’t leave a weird greasy after effect.  The cream is probably my favorite.  My heels and elbows are about hopeless this time of year.  I threw on some Carmex Healing Cream and they were almost presentable… It would probably take a miracle to make them completely presentable.

Giveaway Time:

• One bottle of Carmex Healing Cream
• One bottle of Carmex Healing Lotion
• Travel size bottle of Carmex Healing Cream and Lotion

Just fill out the below form to be entered to win-

***Contest ends on December 4th, 2011 at midnight MST.  Winner will be notified via email.  Valid for shipment to the US.

****I was compensated for this giveaway however all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Not the best photo of the roundliness… but it’s totally round.  (is roundliness a word?  It is now)

One of the best parts of the evening was a behind the scenes tour of Hale Centre Theatre.  You don’t realize how much goes into a production until you see what really happens behind the scenes.

Some of us got so into the tour we couldn’t resist the chance to take the stage and sparkle under the lights (not in the creepy vampire way)… and luckily I had a camera on hand to capture the moment.

The evening made me so excited to visit Hale again… and soon.  Which makes the upcoming production of A Christmas Carol so exciting.  I can’t wait to take Brian and the boys out for a night of sophistication and fun.

I’m pretty sure Tiny Tim approves of our choice of Christmastime entertainment.

***Hale Centre Theatre provided me with a ticket for the VIP blogger night… All thoughts and opinions are my own.

]]> http://www.thedailyblarg.com/2011/11/hale-centre-theatre.html/feed 4 http://www.thedailyblarg.com/2011/11/hale-centre-theatre.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheDailyBlarg/~3/5fSOY7jDeWY/thankful.html http://www.thedailyblarg.com/2011/11/thankful.html#comments Thu, 24 Nov 2011 17:00:10 +0000 Steph http://www.thedailyblarg.com/?p=1912 There are so many things I could say I am thankful for… But really… They mean nothing.

No words can describe how lucky, grateful, amazed, blessed, and THANKFUL I am to have these wonderful people in my life.  This is what I am giving thanks for today.

]]> http://www.thedailyblarg.com/2011/11/thankful.html/feed 3 http://www.thedailyblarg.com/2011/11/thankful.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheDailyBlarg/~3/GrMf7Hel4Z0/mcdonalds-utah-new-happy-meal-launch.html http://www.thedailyblarg.com/2011/11/mcdonalds-utah-new-happy-meal-launch.html#comments Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:00:43 +0000 Steph http://www.thedailyblarg.com/?p=1897 Everyone knows that my old kids (or teenagers as they are called these days) are a bit too old for a McDonald’s Happy Meal.  Thankfully, I have some adorable nieces and a nephew that I can delight with a Happy Meal toy now and then.  They are usually the first thing the kids go for in my toy bin.  And what kid… or adult for that matter… doesn’t love a good Chicken McNugget?  Now McDonald’s is giving us a little more… or in this case LESS to love.  With the launch of the NEW Happy Meal in Utah (and select other states) parents no longer have to choose between apple slices (the healthier option) and french fries… because they have MINI-sized them to include both.

What surprised me the most?  Most of the kids, at the McDonald’s Utah new Happy Meal launch events, actually went for the apples first.  Kids love apples… I now have proof.

In addition to making a more sensible sized fry and adding delicious apple slices to the New Happy Meal McDonald’s is also offering fat free chocolate milk as an option in all it’s Happy Meals.  Which has all the nutrients of milk and much less sugar than a soda alternative.  And even the BIG GUY himself loves a good old fashioned chocolate milk.  That’s right… Ronald McDonald likes to chug one back now and then.

 I was lucky enough to help organize 2 fun blogger events to showcase the new Happy Meal that McDonald’s Utah is now offering.  We got to sample the new Happy Meal, Premium Chicken Sandwiches and salads… and take a behind the scenes tour of a couple amazing local restaurants.  I know that it gave me a whole new respect for working at McDonald’s.  Trust me when I say it is a team effort to get you that burger, McNugget, or Happy Meal.  I also was able to disprove some of the myths I have heard about McDonald’s over the years:

• No, there is not a pile of pre-made burgers sitting under a hot lamp.  Your sandwich is made as you order it… cool eh?
• Nope… there is no magical formula to the Coke and Diet Coke at McDonald’s.  But they do have Coke maintain their machines… To provide you with the perfect drink… every time.  And those chilled lines make it so your drink isn’t watered down when you get it.
• The kitchen is not dirty… not at all.  They actually have so many checks and balances in place it is probably never messy.  I was very impressed.

• Oh yeah… Their freezer is super cold.  Even colder than what you have at home.  So thankfully I had a friend to keep me warm.

 

OH KERMIE!!!!

I obviously couldn’t pass up the chance to go catch a sneak preview of the new movie “The Muppets” and see my favorite froggy friend.  Kermit didn’t disappoint (I mean besides in his relationship with that pig).  The rest of the Muppet clan was in top notch form as they came out of years of seclusion.

The story is simple (as in most Muppet films)… We follow the Walter (soon to be newest Muppet) and his brother Gary as they grow up in Smalltown, USA.  But only Gary does the growing.  Flash forward to Gary (Jason Segel) and his girlfriend Mary (Amy Adams) planning an anniversary trip to Hollywood.  Walter is a life long Muppet fan and has always dreamed of going to Muppet Studios so of course they take Walter along.  Cue, run down Muppet Studios, evil oil baron, Muppets scattered all over the country, a few Moopets, plus a telethon, and you know there are going to be some crazy antics to follow.

Of course I couldn’t pass up to do a movie review with my main froggy squeeze next to me… (in this case a giant one eyed stuffed Kermit with Brian doing his best Kermit impression):

My review in a nutshell:  If you love the Muppets you won’t be disappointed.  Silly, fun, full of celebrity power, predictable (as all Muppet movies are) and just plain awesome.  If you aren’t familiar with the Muppets… What is wrong with you?

Don’t forget… The Muppets opens in theaters on November 23rd, 2011!!!

***Disney provided me and my family tickets to see The Muppets.  All opinions, stuffed frogs, and craziness are my own.

• Set the table the night before.  You can add all of your finishing touches, place cards, and decor without having to rush around the day of.
• Make certain food items 1-2 days before.  You can free up a lot of time and oven space by preparing your pies in advance.  Plus, many of your side dishes like cranberries (or Em’s make ahead potatoes) can also be prepped before the big day.
• Assign, assign, ASSIGN!  Are you hosting this year?  If so, make food assignments for your guests to bring.  Even if it is simple items like drinks or a veggie tray.  Every little bit helps.
• Make your list and check it twice.  Take inventory of your fridge, freezer, and pantry.  Be sure you have enough staples like flour and sugar.  Plus, add all the necessary turkey day items.
• Shop 4-5 days in advance.  There is no reason to fight the crowds the day before Thanksgiving.  Plus, you are more likely to be able to get some of those items (like canned pumpkin) that are hard to find around the holidays.
• Accept the inevitable… Something will go wrong.  Just laugh it off and remember that is what the holidays are all about.

What are some ideas or tips and tricks you use to get past the holiday stress?

Thanks for visiting Fakesgiving Week!  Enjoy some other recipes like cranberries or sausage and mushroom stuffing.

I was going to title this post “How To Roast A Perfect Turkey” but I didn’t want to create envy among all the roasted turkeys turkeys out there.  So instead I will just give you a brief written and video (where I may or may not use the word spatchcock) recipe on how to roast a turkey. And by “brief” I mean lengthy and possibly coma inducing.  Truly, this will give you a tender, juicy, and amazeballs turkey every time… Be it Thanksgiving or Christmas.

For reals… It is pretty perfect isn’t it?  I only wish the lighting was a bit better.

Grab your ingredients:

Prep work:

Watch video on additional turkey preparation: (if for no other reason than to hear me say “spatchcock”)

Almost done:

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanks for stopping by and celebrating Fakesgiving week with me.

As you saw earlier this week we are wild for berries… Cranberries.   But Thanksgiving dinner can’t only consist of fine berry side dishes.  You have to have something a little more filling.  That is where my sausage and mushroom stuffing comes in handy.  This recipe is tried and tested over many years and it is always requested for Thanksgiving and Christmans dinners.  And let’s be honest… Food is just better anytime you add pig to the equation.

Gather your ingredients:

And follow a few simple steps:

Time to EAT:

I have a confession… I am a food snob.  It’s true.  I am not super snobby… I pretty much can’t survive without McDonald’s Diet Coke.  And who doesn’t love a chicken nugget now and then?  But when it comes to certain things… homemade is best.  Cranberry sauce is one of them. In fact, until I married Brian, I never realized that people bought canned cranberries… Especially considering how simple and EASY the recipe is.  Plus, it looks and tastes so much better.  It has to be one of our favorite Thanksgiving side dishes.

Gather your ingredients:

Then follow the few easy steps:

Be sure to check back throughout the week for more Thanksgiving recipe ideas.  I heard from a little bird that you get to see a video of me with a big bird…

A few things that make Fakesgiving nearly as amazing as real Thanksgiving:

• Clothing optional-Okay you have to be “covered” but yoga pants, your dirty cooking shirt, and no bra is a perfectly acceptable uniform.
• No football-Ohhh… I may get shot for that one.  But seriously… boo football… BOO!
• No guests required-Yup… more food for me.  Or you… or whoever makes it.
• The food-There may be less dishes than on real Thanksgiving but it doesn’t make them any less delicious.

Happy Fakesgiving from me to you!  Check back tomorrow when I share the first of several Thanksgiving recipes in honor of Fakesgiving Week!

One thing I really love about this taco soup recipe is how easy it is to adapt for your slow cooker or CrockPot.

Enjoy!

Shot with no flash… just the glow from Brian’s iPhone.  Another reason I love my T-Mobile myTouch 4g Slide… Holy awesome nighttime… or in this case BEDTIME photography.

***I was provided a myTouch Slide by T-Mobile I decided to post about it because HELLO… look at the picture!!!

My little sister’s watched my dog last weekend.  Which means my Mom sent me home with a huge basket of apples from her tree.  What does one do with all those apples?  Well I made dessert… Because God created cinnamon and sugar expressly for the purpose of making apples awesome.  What?  It’s true… I am sure I heard that in church once.   So basically my dessert was a gift from heaven.  And if you have ever had Apple Crisp a’la mode… You know I am totally right.

My apple crisp recipe is quick, easy, and pretty much fool proof.  Trust me… I know fools.

Forgive the photo… when the sun sets at 5pm I am a slave to crappy light bulbs.

You can thank me later… and you will.

Doesn’t that look SOOOO YUM?

I was able to pick up all the ingredients for my Tortellini Soup Recipe while out doing my weekly shopping.

Tortellini Soup Instructions

Wash and chop all veggies.

Halve and thinly slice Hillshire Farm Gourmet Creations Sweet Italian Style Sausage.  I love that you can actually see the peppers inside of the sausage… It isn’t a mystery what’s really in there.

Lightly brown sausage in olive oil over medium-high heat.  Since the sausage is already cooked it’s quick and easy.

Add onions and garlic saute until soft. (stir frequently to avoid burning)

Add remaining veggies and saute until spinach is wilted.

Add broth, water, tomatoes, and spices.  Stir well and bring to a boil.  Add fresh tortellini and cook for about 8 minutes (or according to package instructions)  Be sure to NOT overcook the pasta.  Remove from heat and serve.

Top with grated Italian style cheese.  Don’t forget a side of warm fresh bread.

This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias.  But the deliciousness that is the #GourmetCreations recipe is all my own.

]]> http://www.thedailyblarg.com/2011/11/tortellini-soup-recipe.html/feed 11 http://www.thedailyblarg.com/2011/11/tortellini-soup-recipe.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheDailyBlarg/~3/1K2GlnXpRwo/hale-centre-theatre-my-fair-lady-giveaway.html http://www.thedailyblarg.com/2011/10/hale-centre-theatre-my-fair-lady-giveaway.html#comments Sun, 30 Oct 2011 14:00:12 +0000 Steph http://www.thedailyblarg.com/?p=1817 When was the last time you got dressed up and went to dinner and the theatre with your favorite friend?  I am not talking about Paranormal Activity 3 or even Puss in Boots at your favorite movie spot… I mean the actual theatre?  I can’t even remember the last time I had a truly classy girls night out.  Well this Thursday I… and hopefully YOU are in luck thanks to Hale Centre Theatre.

Hale Centre Theatre is having a VIP Blogger Social this Thursday, November 3rd to see one of of my… okay probably everyone’s favorite musical.  My Fair Lady… I KNOW… RIGHT?!?!?!  And I get to invite 5 of you (and your BFF).  Who just did a little happy dance when they read that? Who doesn’t love Eliza Doolittle? I am already planning on a night of fun and giggles.  And after dealing with kids hopped up on Halloween candy all week… I am going to need some giggles.  And I get to invite 5 of you (and your BFF).

So what could be more fun… You… Me… Giggles… and of course our beloved Eliza? Oh I will answer that for you…. NOTHING!   Now it’s time to enter for THIS night of fun:

Hale Centre Theatre

My Fair Lady VIP Blogger Social:

• Thursday, November 3rd, 2011
• 6:30 pm socializing and hors d’oeuvres
• 6:45 a fun preview of the staging of My Fair Lady
• 7:15 seating for the show (starts at 7:30pm)

Does this sound like your cup of tea?  Of course it does.  Just fill out the form below to be entered to win 1 of 5 pairs of tickets to Hale Centre Theatre’s VIP Blogger Social of My Fair Lady.  And don’t worry… you don’t have to be a blogger to come.  You just have to socialize with them.

This is a quickie… giveaway ends at 2:30pm on Tuesday, November 1st, 2011.  Winner will be notified via email.  So be watching your inbox.

Don’t worry if you can’t make it.  My Fair Lady is showing through November 26th, 2011.

Did you care?  Do you care?  Does it change the way you are going to interact on social media?  Does it matter?

I admit… I cared for a second (okay like 2 hours).  I like those 3 points I lost.  I named them Fred, Sally, and Enrique… It’s like they were my children.  I do call my actual kids Number 1 and Number 2… so obviously I am attached to numbers.  And everyone know that your self-worth is determined my a randomly computed number.  (I am only mocking myself… I understand that people are upset.)

Honestly… other than for the 10 minutes it is taking me to write this post… I really don’t care anymore.  Because just like any other number or algorithim or score someone is going to figure out a way to hack it.   They will only tweet “influential” celebrities.  The will only interact with other people deemed “worthy” by their Klout score.  They will remove networks like Facebook and Foursquare that may be dragging them down.

So… has it changed how you will get your social on?  I can honestly say for me it won’t.  Because “influencers” influencing “influencers” seems like a huge waste of time to me.  What about the other 99% (I feel soooooooo occupy Wall Street right now) that want to know what you think?  That like to talk to you regardless of your Klout score?  That like pictures of your food from Asian Month?  The people that have become your friends, that trust what you have to say?  You know… the people you care about caring?  Isn’t that who you really want in your circle of “influence”?  And isn’t that who you want to be influenced by?

Does your Klout score really matter?  I guess that is up for debate.  Yes, if you want some of those illusive Klout perks.  But, being influential in Unicorns doesn’t get you a free Windows phone apparently.  If Windows only knew that cell phone towers are actually powered by unicorn magic…  And if a company or brand really wants to know your “clout”… then tell them.  Show them comments and tweets and brand testimonials about you and what you stand for.  You are so much better than a number.

In the end… If Klout (or anyone for that matter) doesn’t realize the magical power of unicorns pooping glitter… It’s their loss.

A couple weekends ago we had our annual Pumpkin Party with my nieces and nephews.  It always starts with a visit to the pumpkin patch… Seriously… I love it there.

I especially love it when tiny kids try to pick up giant pumpkins.

I find it inspiring when big kids find their true calling as Children of the Corn.

I adore that they love pumpkin patching as much as I do.

Don’t worry… we don’t waste all the fun at the pumpkin patch.  When we get home the party progresses long into the afternoon… I mean like 4pm.  That means naps were skipped.  It’s walking on the wild side at it’s finest.

Nothing says wild like almost crushing your hand bones carving the tiniest pumpkin on the planet.

We even get a little crazy with the pumpkin guts… that mess goes on for feet people.

When the pumpkins are carved that’s when we can finally let loose and get our model on.

And whether it’s day or night… the party continues with our pumpkins shining bright.  (I totally couldn’t type that with straight face.  Somebody should really stop me.)

This was my first year attending WitchFest at Utah‘s own Gardner Village so I had no idea what to expect.  What I should have expected, considering it was UEA weekend, was more people than I have ever experienced at Gardner Village.  Apparently WitchFest draws in quite the crowd.  But really… who can blame the onlookers?  It is a witchtacular site to see.  Apparently Em and Kalli couldn’t resist the spell either.

I am a sucker for all things Halloween so I think I was about 10 times as excited to Ride To A Witch than my nieces were.  But c’mon… a hayride to a magical world of witches… with a cockroach ticket to ride… What red blooded Utah woman wouldn’t be giddy?

I loved how the witches looked and acted the part.  Just creepy enough to make them realistic but still fun and approachable.  And most of the little kids (okay and adults too) were definitely under the witches “spell”.

After a brief tour of the witch’s house and disco… yes there was definitely some witchtastic dancing taking place… We got to conjur up a toe fungus potion and visit the witch’s spa.  And let me tell you… If a witch ever asks you to a spa day… DON’T DO IT!

In the end we all learned that witches are just like us… only more warty.  (is warty a word?  It is now.)  I also learned that promising ice cream to a 4 year old only guarantees you a picture with a witch… Not a smile.

But thankfully after a quick bite to eat at Naborhood Bakery we were able to get a couple smiles out of my cutie nieces.  Sometimes balloons are just more enchanting.

I was provided with tickets to Ride To A Witch… all thoughts are my own… because seriously???  Who’d want to steal them?

The classic pails are now gone… but of course never forgotten.  This year McDonald’s decided to make their Halloween Pails interactive.  Get your kids lunch and a fun activity.  Keep them busy for HOURS decorating their own trick or treat pail with stickers. (plus… you can use the removable Halloween mask to disguise yourself on your 2nd or 3rd McDiet Coke run for the day) And because McDonald’s offers some sensible side options like apple dippers… You can feel a little less guilty about the fun lunch time indulgence.

I am so excited to stuff these pails full of goodies my cute nieces and nephew.  Since apparently my kids like to use pillowcases for trick or treating now.  But as long as half of that pillow case is full of Smarties for me I will allow it.

GIVEAWAY TIME:

McDonald’s is offering up a 5 pack of  green monster Halloween Happy Meal Pails to one lucky reader.  Plus some coupons for FREEE Apple Dippers… and dood… that is seriously one of my fave snacks.

This is a quickie (I am hoping these bad boys get to you before the big day)… Giveaway ends on 10/25 at 5pm MST.  Winner will be notified via email. 

Just fill out the mandatory fields below to be entered.  5 EXTRA entries for telling me your FAVORITE Halloween memory.

***Benefited giveaway

You too can create some booalicious fun.  First off… Head to your favorite store (like Walmart) to pick up all your supplies.  I documented my shopping trip so you can peek inside my head while I am shopping   What you add to your Boo Baskets is completely up to you.  (remember you are making 2 baskets)

Next up… create a cute basket full of yummy goodness.  I chose to include a little something for everyone in the family.

Now it’s time to create your BOO.  I used Elmer’s Foam Board (I love puffy and soft… and Elmer’s Foam Board totally fits the bill) and Krazy glue (and much to my surprise I didn’t Krazy Glue anything to myself.) for the perfect BOO.  I  found my ghost printable here.

Now it’s time to make your BooGram and BooStructions.  I got wild and made up my own BooGram poem and instructions.  Feel free to get a little funky or you can look up more traditional BooGrams.  My BooCreation:

BooGram

Ghosts are
white.

They come
out at night.

Here is a
Boo.

Just for
you.

Create a Boo
for 2 of your friends.

****Create a “Boo Basket” for 2 of your neighbors and secretly deliver.  Place your Boogram on your door so you aren’t double booed.  Include instructions in your boo baskets.****

I know… my poetry is MAGIC! 

You are just about done.  See how simple?  Just add your BOO and BooGram into your basket.

Deliver your completed baskets!  Happy Booing!

This project has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Elmer’s #gluenglitter #collectivebias #CBias The skills it took to not Krazy Glue myself to the Elmer’s Foam Board are my own.

Zombie Punch Recipe-A delicious beverage that goblins and ghouls of all ages will enjoy!

Ingredients-

• 1/2 gallon limeade
• 2 liters lemon-lime soda
• 1/2 gallon lime sherbet

Directions: Add limeade and soda to large punch bowl.  Add sherbet by the scoop.  When the mixture starts to foam it is ready to serve to all of your ghostly guests.  (Serves about 20)

Halloween Rice Krispie Treats Recipe- Snap, crackle, and pop your way into a festive Halloween treat.

Ingredients-

• 3 tablespoons of butter (butter works best)
• 1 package of mini marshmallows (melts quicker)
• 4 cups of Rice Krispies or applicable generic substitution
• 2 cups of Cocoa Krispies
• 12 drops of red food coloring
• 8 drops of yellow food coloring

Directions-Over medium-low heat melt butter.  Add the marshmallows and stir frequently (I always spray the stirring spoon with some non-stick cooking spray) Coat 13×9 pan with non-stick cooking spray.  When marshmallow mixture is completely melted add food coloring and mix well.  (You can adjust your orange coloring by adding more red or yellow) Remove from heat and gently mix in cereal until thoroughly coated with marshmallow mixture.  Scrape into greased 13×9 pan.  Use a spatula (coated with non-stick spray) to spread and flatten mixture.  Cool before cutting into squares.  (Serves 1-20… if you want to share.)

Bulging Zombie Eyeballs aka Halloween Meatball Recipe-What says gross more than a zombie eyeball on a stick?  Thankfully they taste delicious.

Ingredients-

• 40-50 prepared/cooked meatballs (you can make them or buy them)
• 1 2/3 cups of grape jam
• 1 bottle of chili sauce
• Green olives (stuffed with pimentos work best)
• Toothpicks

Directions-Mix together chili sauce and jam until smooth.  Place prepared meatballs in crock-pot.  Pour sauce over meatballs.  Cook on low for about 2 hours.  Place meatballs on platter.  Use toothpick and poke through the center of an olive (You can use a half olive if you want the eyes to be less “bulgy”) and poke into meatball to secure.  Repeat until done.  Drizzle the extra sauce over the meatballs for an oozing effect.

Jell-o “Blood” Worms Recipe-I actually got this idea/recipe from my friend Amy.  I am going to send you over to her site to get all the recipe details.

I hope you have a great time hosting your witches and zombies this Halloween.

]]> http://www.thedailyblarg.com/2011/10/halloween-party-recipes.html/feed 7 http://www.thedailyblarg.com/2011/10/halloween-party-recipes.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheDailyBlarg/~3/kFbhaSdKe64/we-be-bugging-hexbughalloween.html http://www.thedailyblarg.com/2011/10/we-be-bugging-hexbughalloween.html#comments Mon, 17 Oct 2011 22:23:55 +0000 Steph http://www.thedailyblarg.com/?p=1723 We love Halloween around these parts.  I wouldn’t say we go crazy or overboard… In fact we aren’t huge on decor.  I think it is just the whole season in general.  Heading to the pumpkin patch, carving pumpkins, and going trick or treating… We LOVE it all.  That is why when I was selected to host a HEXBUG Halloween party I couldn’t resist.

I was already planning on having our annual “Pumpkin Day” this last Saturday and figured tacking on a fun little Halloween party wouldn’t be a problem at all.  Especially since all the fun was provided by HEXBUG.  And thankfully kids don’t care about all the little details that normally go into party planning because I threw this baby together in 2.5 days.  It was like a shotgun wedding… only the wedding was a Halloween party… and the future baby were robotic bugs.

And really there isn’t much entertainment planning necessary when you are supplied with all sorts of creepy crawly creatures to keep everyone entertained for hours.

But that didn’t stop us from using some of our HEXBUG Nano’s and having a “Mummy Wrap Race”.  Nothing is more adorable than a couple toilet paper wrapped kids running across the lawn to capture their HEXBUG for the race.  And for some, the excitement and wonder came from watching their bug try to race across the “mummy wrap” (aka toilet paper).

 You would think those ghoulish creatures (oh and the HEXBUGS) would be tired out after mummying around.  But fun knows no bounds or energy crisis.  So it was time to head inside and build our habitats for a little more racing fun.

Of course we captured all of the HEXBUGtivities on bugavision to share with you

All that racing around did result in a major FUEL deficiency… Thankfully I had plenty of spooktacular food on hand for the creeps and ghouls.

Just of few of our ghoulalicous faves… (check back tomorrow and I will be sharing a few recipes)

 No worries… I didn’t send all of our ghost and goblin friends home empty handed.  We stuffed treat bags full of goodies and of course HEXBUGS!

The party didn’t end when the lights went out… The HEXBUGS and habitat glow in the dark.  It was like having a bug nightclub on my table… Well without the loud music and “bug juice”.

Thanks to MomSelect, MommyParties, and HEXBUG for supplying the HEXBUG supplies for our #HEXBUGHalloween party.  As usual… all thoughts, opinions, photos, and stuffs are my own.

Suzuki makes cars?  Who knew?  Truly, that is the first thought that came to mind when Kristin told me (and invited me to take her place) about the #SuzukiMomFest event.  When I think about Suzuki I usually think about one of their ATV’s or motorcycles.  I wasn’t even aware that Suzuki Auto made cars… I thought it they made all these all the time.

But my visit to the GORGEOUS St. Charles, IL changed my perception of Suzuki.  Did I mention how gorgeous St. Charles is?  We stayed at Hotel Baker along the Fox River.  It was seriously straight out of a movie beautiful there.  I 100%  understand why Family Circle named St. Charles the #1 city for families… I wonder if I can get Brian to move?  Probably not move.  I am far to lazy to move… You have to pack up stuff you know. So we at least have to go back and visit.  Especially in fall… Tree lined streets full of falling leaves?  Pure magic.  I almost expected to see a unicorn frolicking in the tree tops.

We were lucky enough to test drive some of the Suzuki Auto vehicle lineup while in Illinois.  Taking a long scenic drive is the perfect way to really get the feel of a vehicle.  And while I drove in the Grand Vitara and SX4 I decided they weren’t what I was looking for in an SUV.  I like them huge with a 3rd row seat and cargo space to spare.  While they both had ample leg room and storage capacity they weren’t my cup of tea.  But I know so many people like the smaller “sportier” SUV’s… So they may fit the bill for you.  But as far as cars go I like them cute, fun, sporty, and fully loaded.  That is probably why I liked the Suzuki Kizashi so much. (We are even looking at it for our upcoming purchase of a new commuter car.  Before my trip that wouldn’t have even crossed my mind)

Leslie and I

And nothing says fun and fully loaded like two ladies and a sunroof.  It’s the little things that make all the difference.  The Kizashi was jam packed with all the little things I really want/need in a vehicle.  Bluetooth, memory seats, leather, 8 standard airbags, and so much more….  Like the most amazing keyless entry system.  With the Kizashi’s key fob you can stick the keys in your purse and literally forget about them.  As long as you are very close to the vehicle there is a button on the car to unlock the doors, start the car, and open the trunk.  It’s like my messy purses dream.

Of course the Kizashi had the MOST important feature for any busy Mom.  A place to put our ice cold Diet Coke.  It’s how I stay sane on countless hours of carpool and road-trips.

And don’t worry.  There is plenty of room for all the junk in your trunk… Or all the goodies you got during a scavenger hunt at Target.

And Suzuki wants YOU to win all the junk in my trunk.  Well not my trunk… but the Kizashi’s.  And trust me you want to win all the Junk In the Trunk… because it’s not junk at all.  Up for grabs is over $96 in goodies for the Mom/family on the run including:

• Umbrella stroller
• Sippy cups
• Size 2 diapers
• Wipes
• Car seat activity mirror
• Diaper bag

It’s easy to enter just leave a comment below telling me what your favorite feature in a car is.  That’s all.  Easy huh?

Winner will be chosen at random on 10/23/11 at midnight mountain time.  Winner will be notified via email.

Don’t forget you can like Suzuki Auto and The Daily Blarg on Facebook.  Because we like you!

Fog aside (Which I didn’t mind at all.  It really just adds to the allure of San Francisco.)  I absolutely fell in love with the city.  It is so rich in culture, food, and fun.  I did quite a bit of research (as always) prior to us leaving on our trip.  I wanted to make sure we visited the best tourist attractions for families.  Because yes… We go on vacation to be tourists and have fun.  And to flash random family gang signs.  Well they aren’t actually from our family… But we do them as a family.  You know what they say about a family that flashes gang signs together… Yeah, I don’t either.

Now here is my list for the Top 5 Family Tourist Attractions in San Francisco: (You know since I am an authority and all after my one visit.)

Fisherman’s Wharf-It doesn’t really get any more touristy than this.  From delicious, yet overpriced, seafood restaurants… To fun souvenir shops… To quirky museums… To Pier 39 You are sure to spend the day wandering, eating, shopping, and taking endless photographs.

Open Top Tour Bus-Yes, I consider this to be an attraction.  It is a gateway attraction to many of the other attractions.  And if you choose wisely and book a hop on, hop off bus you can use it as a mode of transportation to all the spots you want to visit on the tour.  (hint-I would take the 2 hour tour one time to decide where you want to visit then start hopping off the next time around.  The bus will take you to Golden Gate Bridge, Union Square, and Haight-Ashbury just to name a few hot tourist spots.

Golden Gate Bridge-It’s big.  It’s a bridge. And it’s beyond breathtaking.  It is one of those things that makes you want to take out your old erector set and build something great.  Even on a foggy day you will still be awe inspired.

Japanese Tea Garden-Located inside Golden Gate Park I consider it to be a must see.  The kids will love the fish in the tranquil ponds and all the bright colored pagodas.  Parents will marvel at the awe inspiring peace and beauty.  Plus… It’s Asian.  I love me some Asian.

Sea Lions at Pier 39-I know… predictable.  But it is SOOOO much fun.  After you get over the smell (and oh boy is it smelly) you will sit and ooooh and ahhhhh for hours.  Seriously… bring comfy shoes. Who would of thought that stinky marine life could be so amazing.  Sea Lions are so cute.

I know there are tons of other places in San Francisco to visit.  And we probably visited several of them… But these are some bonafide hits to make your next vacation FABULOUS.

SNAP-I don’t craft.  I’m not creative.  But I do love projects with kids.  Checked out my Haunted Halloween Castle.

Our Ordinary Life-Kristin sent me on a fun trip to the Suzuki Mom Fest.  It was totally a festivus… for cars.

Thanks to these great sites for humoring my bad grammar and annoying voice.  That’s true friendship.

We love doing food experients in our house.  Remember that one time we tried to be vegetarian for a week?  Well, the experiment we are trying this month is fool proof.  31 days of Asian dinners.  I am 11 days in and batting… well 11.

We have had Vietnamese Spring Rolls, Pho, Lemongrass Chicken, and Sesame Ginger Noodles just to name a few.  And of course we have had sushi… can’t skip the sushi.  And yup, I have been making the meals from scratch.  Even all the sauces.  Why?  Because I am trying to keep the frying and sugar to a minimum and still enjoy our favorite Asian meals.

Tonight, errrrr, last night I made Orange Chicken.  It is definitely a go to if we ever hit up Panda Express.  The slight modifications made it a little more healthy but still just as tasty.  I was able to get a great crunch to the chicken even though I baked it.  And the sauce couldn’t tell I used Agave instead of sugar.

And now you’ve been to the bathroom with me.  You can thank me later.

Over the last several weeks we have visited some awesometastic local spots… And now I want to share them with YOU YOU YOU!  Have you ever had a short rib?  Well at Copper Onion in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah you can get a short rib from a dinosaur… Okay maybe not a dinosaur… but seriously… the thing was HUGE.

Photo Courtesy of the R house

Being a Sassy isn’t all about eating delicious hunks of charred animal flesh.  We also like to show our more reserved and elegant side.  Hence why visiting Remedez Salon in Provo, Utah was a perfect even of refined pleasure.

Photo Courtesy of Fomerly Phread

It is hard work to be pampered… Thankfully Station 22 in Provo, Utah was able to provide us with much needed sustainence… In the form of the best battered fries EVER.

Photo Courtesy of Formerly Phread (see above link)

What girl doesn’t love a good flower now and then?  The Sassies are not immune to the charm (or scent) of a beautiful flower.  Flower’s on Main in Lehi, Utah treated us to a lovely evening of floral heaven… and we got to make our own topiary.  And YES… I actually made mine.  And for some reason flowers make me think…

Sammy’s Cafe had the Sassies back to their favorite subject… FOOD.  Because who doesn’t love a good buger and shake joint?  Better yet a place that turns cupcakes in to shakes???  And Xander was all about the fry sauce on his chicken sandwhich.  He couldn’t even take it out of his mouth for a photo.

And every once in a while we get adventurous and decide to go vegan… if only for 30 minutes.  City Cakes in Salt Lake City offers up vegan baked goods and food for those who don’t like to roll around in bacon while noshing on sausage.

Photo Courtesy of Kim Orlandini

So now you know what the Sassies have been up to… What have you been doing?

I initially went to the movie for my teenagers… okay and for a HEALTHY dose of Hugh Jackman.  (What?  I am human… And he is human too… A fine and gorgeous specimen of humanity.)  But really… I think I actually liked it more than my son thanks to the emotional story line between father and son Charlie (Hugh Jackman) and Max (Dakota Goyo).  Granted it was a little predictable but the actors made it believable.

The real star of Real Steel is Atom… Max’s robot.  I know robots aren’t technically actors but I kind of fell in love with Atom.  And you can be assured that if there is ever a listing for a pet robot on Craig’s List that I am all over it.

I hate reviews that tell the whole story and make it unnecessary to see the film… So basically I will sum it up for you.  Woman will love it, men will love it, kids will love it.  It truly has something for everyone.

 I was provided with free tickets to see a preview of this film.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Or maybe I am just GOOFY to the core.  And I am okay with that… But maybe I should start showing off my pearly whites a little bit more.  Just so I don’t get mistaken for a mental patient next time I am out.