There Is More To Me

Reinventing Myself, AGAIN...

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 22:33:00 +0000

Here we go again ......

I'm taking my blogging in an other direction.

I have to go with what moves and motivates ME. After much thought and many many discussions with my family and friends, I've decided to focus more on my love of Home Decorating, DIY projects and all that jazz.

So I hope you will join me on yet another journey over at my new home "TheDecoratingDork.com"

I'm excited about this and I hope you will be too.

Thanks

Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 19:42:00 +0000

It's been 4 longs months that you've been "out of commission."

Glad to see you back and ready to roll..

2007 Dodge Nitro

(the poor baby got infested with mold after Hurricane Irene in August)

It Sure Has Been A While..

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 03:26:00 +0000

It's not that unusual for me to disappear off the face of the blogosphere for weeks or even months at a time. I have ideas for posts. I tell myself to write. I start and then give it up after a few sentences. I have such "blogger insecurities." I know nobody reads my posts and I know that it is my fault. I just don't put myself out-there.

That is all going to change in 2012. I've decided I'm not going to let my insecurities get in the way of what I want for myself and for my blog. I haven't exactly figured out what direction that will be, but I do have some ideas floating around in my head. I have to say, I am excited to make a name for myself. It's a big blogosphere out there and I think there is room for me too.

Can't wait...

Wordless Wednesday ..."Movember"

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0000

Check out Movember.com.

My 18yr old son is a supporter of the "Movember Movement"

He doesn't shave his beard or mustache for the whole month of November.

Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 05:01:00 +0000

Calm Before The Storm

The Year Without A Halloween

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 23:15:00 +0000

2011 will always be remembered as "The Year With No Halloween." Well, at least here in the northwest corner of Connecticut.

On Saturday Oct. 29th we were hit with a historic snowstorm. I tell ya, it was crazy. It started snowing at about noon and within an hour it was a full-on blizzard out there. Between the wet heavy snow and all the leaves left on the trees, it wasn't long before I started seeing friends posting "lost power." Finally at about 11pm and with at least a foot of snow on the ground, we lost our power too.

I had no idea how bad it really was out there til the next morning. I was too busy being pissed about not having power, not having coffee, no shower and not being able to go to brunch in New York with my girlfriends. (kinda seem petty and selfish now) I thought for sure we would get our power back relatively quick due to the fact we live a street over from the hospital. Little did I know 98% of Torrington was without power and almost 900,000 homes in all of Connecticut were without power as well.
Then we started hearing it would be 5-10 days before power would be restored. At that moment my husband I went into a panic... he got on his iPhone trying to find us a hotel room.

Could I have survived at home with no power? Yes, but I am not a fan of "roughing-it" at all.
We couldn't get a room for Sunday night, but we did get one for Monday night. That whole story is a post in of itself.

Sunday afternoon, officials had announced that Halloween would be "cancelled" due to the wide spread outages, downed trees and power lines. My son Thomas was very upset, Halloween is his favorite holiday. I just hoped that a night in a hotel with tv, computer and real food would make it less painful for him.

It all seems so surreal. I still can't believe there was no Halloween, there was about 18 inches of snow on the ground and we went straight from early fall right into winter. It's the crazy weather like this that is making me want to move to Florida more and more every day.

#ComeAlive With MyEducation.com

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 18:05:00 +0000

If you ask anyone who knows me, they'll tell you that I've talked about going back to school for years now.
I graduated High School then attended a Community College, but dropped out after only a month. I was just tired of the "school" thing. High School wasn't easy for me, but not academically. I lost my brother in the beginning of freshmen year and my boyfriend the summer between freshmen and sophomore year. Needless to say, I don't even know how I graduated on time.

I checked out MyEducation.com filled out the form and was surprised at all the schools there were to choose from. I'm still not sure what field I want to study.

While on the site I watched a funny commercial featuring zombies. I think they captured me perfectly. (hahahahaha) I also learned that MyEducation.com is holding a #ComeAlive
contest. All you have to do is submit a video and you could win $2500. That would come in handy for your education, wouldn't it?
So check out the commercial below, then check out MyEducation.com and #ComeAlive!!!

Time Flies When Your Having Fun... NOT

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:57:00 +0000

I can't believe the last post I wrote was on Sept. 30th.

I'm not saying that is "unusual" to let that much time go in between posts. Let's face it, I hardly write at all. Even though it was only a week and a half ago, it seems like it was just yesterday.

Time is just flying by these days. I'm busy, very busy. But, on the other hand I feel like I get absolutely nothing done. Lately I've sucked at managing my time. I can't seem to focus or concentrate on the tasks that NEED to get done.
I used to be way better at "doing it all." I do remember a time when I was a good mother, stepmother, wife, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, daughter, daughter-in-law, housekeeper, decorator, crafter and managed to cook dinner for up to 8 people 5 nights a week.
You know, one of those annoying "supermoms", that now I HATE with a passion.

The days just seem to be getting shorter and shorter. The "need to do" & "want to do" lists are getting longer and longer. I'm more tired, have less patience and no ambition what-so-ever.

I'm trying to snap-the-hell-out-of it.....
It's just that time is flying by and I can't seem to stop it long enough to take a breath.

PTO...Should I Stay or Should I Go?

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 01:21:00 +0000

Should I stay or should I go?..... This is the question I've been asking since August.

I swore to myself and everyone I know that I was NOT going to join the PTO Executive Board at my son's new school this year.
For the last 3 years I served as Vice President and President at Thomas' elementary school. I enjoyed it, had fun. I got along well with the staff and parents, but it was ALOT of work. By the end of the school year in June, I was burnt-out. I knew going from a small elementary school of 320 students to the big middle school with about 1200 students was going to be even more work!

Well, guess who is the Vice President of the Torrington Middle School PTO? ME.

I'm really struggling with the decision whether to stay or step down. On one hand I do want to be involved and help out. I don't want to let anyone down, especially Thomas. He actually likes the fact that I am on the PTO and that the teachers know who I am.
On the other, I'm so overwhelmed with life that the responsibilities of this position seem to be adding to my stress. I should be able to juggle everything. There are millions of women out there who do it all, everyday. I'm just not sure I can be "one of those moms" who can pull it all off at this point.

Ugh... decisions, decisions!

I Have A New Hobby

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 22:02:00 +0000

It's not the "crafty" kinda hobby.
It's one that doesn't cost any money.
Actually, it saves me money!

IT'S COUPONING!

I've always cut coupons and sometimes I would remember to use them. But not anymore, I've become dedicated to saving money and getting the best deals possible.

I'm not going to get all crazy like those people on Extreme Couponing. I don't plan on having a stock pile of 150 tubes of toothpaste or 80 rolls of paper towels. I think even if I had the room, I wouldn't go that far.

I was so excited and got quite the rush when I did my first CVS deal, I knew right then and there I was hooked. I've seen the blogs and photos of people who do the CVS, Rite Aid and Walgreen's deals. You know the ones I'm talking about. They have a photo of a table full of products that they paid next to nothing for. Well, from now on that's going to be me too.

Here's the photo of my first CVS deal (done 2 weeks ago).

In 2 transactions, I paid a grand total of $6.36 for everything you see here.

(Oh boy.... it's official, I've become "one of those people.")

My Name Is Tina And I'm An Addict....

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 02:51:00 +0000

Can I tell you, I am LOVING Pinterest. If you haven't checked it out yet, what the heck are you waiting for?
I've been trying to think of a way to explain exactly what Pinterest is and how it works. I just am not very good at explaining things, especially in writing.
I know, I write a blog and can't write? Believe me, I'm in no-way-shape-or-form a "writer" (as I'm sure it's perfectly clear by posts) Anywhoo... here are some cute little "sayings" that I found on Pinterest, explaining Pinterest.

Macy's Classroom Makeover Sweepstakes (Hurry, Ends Tonight at Midnight)

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 00:18:00 +0000

SheSpeaks has teamed up with Macy's and their Classroom Makeover Sweepstakes! Share your school pride and share the contest and YOUR favorite homeroom could win a $25,000 upgrade.

Hurry Up:

The Macy's Classroom Makeover Sweepstakes ends tonight September 15th, 2011 at midnight.

How to Enter:

Head to www.facebook.com/macys and like the page
Click the Classroom Makeover Sweeps tab
Fill out the entry form & submit
Share the contest via Facebook and Twitter

As Vice President of the PTO at my son's middle school, I understand how far $25,000 could go. This is an awesome opportunity for any school to get.
Thanks to SheSpeaks and Macy's for this great sweepstakes.

"Food Fight"

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 20:34:00 +0000

No, it's not the kind of food fight you had in the High School cafeteria. This food fight is way less messy.

It's actually a contest about eating healthy and living an all around healthier
lifestyle.
Aetna (a Healthcare Benefits Company) has come up with the program "Aetna Healthy Food Fight."

If you go to the website, you can visit their Healthy Test Kitchen, learn Healthy Living Tips from cutie-pie Bobby Flay,try a Healthy Recipe, submit a Healthy Recipe, vote for your Favorite Recipe or just enter the Sweepstakes.

If you submit a recipe and join in on the Food Fight, you have a chance to win $10,000 in groceries donated by Recipe.com. You can also enter the Sweepstakes for a chance to win a set of Circulon gourmet cookware donated by Meyer Corporation. (They are giving away several sets and you can enter daily!!)

Lastly,the Aetna Healthy Food Fight has teamed up with SheSpeaks and they are throwing a Twitter Party (using hashtag #SSFoodFight) tonight Thursday September 15th at 8pm EDT.

RSVP here to join in on the fun! We'll be learning more about the Aetna Healthy Food Fight, sharing tips and recipes on living healthy and of course giving away prizes, prizes and more prizes!!

Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 12:29:00 +0000

"Saying Goodbye"

This was the night before we left to drop off Nick at college. The tall one in the green hat is Nick's friend Jordan (LOVE that kid). Nick is the one in the middle with the bald head. The medium sized kid on the left is Nick's friend Ryan and last but not least the shortest little dude would be my Thomas. He's going to miss his "Big Bro" most of all. He'll miss all of Nick's friends as well. (so will I)

And Then There Was Three......

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 01:21:00 +0000

For the last few weeks, I've been feverishly getting my oldest son Nick ready for college. He leaves Friday morning for Western New England University in Springfield, MA.

I'm nervous, scared, sad and excited for him all at the same time. I don't worry about him doing well in his college classes. He's a VERY smart and focused kid. I worry that he doesn't have enough "life skills" to do what he needs to do to take care of himself. God has blessed him with intelligence but seems to have cut him short in the "common sense" department.
I know he'll be fine. He'll have an amazing experience. He'll learn how do his laundry, make food and decisions... all by himself.
I wouldn't be a MOM without worrying, right?

I think Chris, Thomas and I will have a harder time adjusting to life without Nick around. It'll leave a huge void in our home. Thomas knows he'll miss his big brother, but I don't think he fully understands how much. Even though there is almost an 8 year difference between Nick and Tom, they get along very very well. They really are like best friends.

I'm hoping once Nick is settled in college, Thomas has started middle school and everyone has adjusted to the giant life change, that I can really focus on myself.
I want to work diligently on my blogging and building relationships. I also need to figure out if I want to go back to school or head right into finding a job. It's time for me to look into my future, not just my kid's.

So after this Friday our day-to-day family dynamics will go from four to three. Hmmm... that makes me think, less money on the groceries, less laundry, one less bed to make?

Did you send a son or daughter off to college? How did your family adjust?

Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 04:01:00 +0000

For "My BIG MOUTH"

"Domestically Disabled"

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 12:01:00 +0000

This sign caught my eye while I was walking around at my local Big Lots store. I couldn't stop giggling to myself for about 5 minutes. (I must have looked like the crazy-lady)

I couldn't express to the Dr. over the past 6 months exactly how I am feeling.... but this describes it PERFECTLY!

Do you think there's a diagnosis code for "Domestically Disabled?"
Do you think there's a pill she could prescribe?
Do you think Social Security would consider this a real disability so I could collect?

No? I didn't think so either! Oh Well

What's The Rush?

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 04:01:00 +0000

Is it just me or does it seem like we rush through the seasons?

It's Aug. 14th and there's a tree in my yard that the leaves have already started to change.
The stores have been filled with the Back To School supplies since July.

Walmart has had mums out in front of the store for about a week now.

Not to mention I saw this magazine on the shelves just the other day!!
(Seriously?... I love Miss Paula Deen, but come-on)

Why can't we enjoy the season we are in? Why does the next season (or two) need to be shoved down our throats?

Let's all just stop and smell the roses, while it's still SUMMER!!!

Clearing The Clutter

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 01:55:00 +0000

I am so overwhelmed with CLUTTER lately! I'm not just talking about the clutter in my house, but also the clutter in my head.

I've wanted to write on this blog and start up another blog about decorating. I keep getting stuck. I never know what to say or how to say it. I get an idea in my head and don't know where to start. I can't even call it "writer's block" because I don't consider myself a writer. (far from it actually) I've come to the conclusion that it must be "mind clutter"

I started to type all the things that are cluttering my mind and to me, it sounds like I'm whining and complaining about my life. My intention for this blog is not for it to be a giant bitch-fest!

I just want my son to go off to college and thrive.
I want my youngest son to go to middle school with no problems.
I want my husband's workers comp case to be over with.

But most all of all I want to clear all the clutter from my life! (physical and mental)

I don't think it's alot to ask for, do you?

Wordless Wednesday/Tyler Turns Two

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 17:43:00 +0000

"The Birthday Boy"... Can't believe he is 2 years old already!

It's Been A Long Time Coming....

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 04:01:00 +0000

I haven't been blogging or really even tweeting for almost 2 months now and it's made me realize that in some ways I've missed it and in others, not-so-much.

I've been going through some personal and health issues that just about stopped me in my tracks.

I need to figure out where my life is going and who I want (or don't want) to be. I'm looking for some great sign from above. (ya know, a burning bush or something to that affect) But I've realized that just isn't going to happen. I have to make my life better and do what will make me happy.

I'm not sure that right now, at this point in my life that I can do this whole blogging thing the way it should be done. I don't have it in me to make it a success. It's just become one more thing I have to think and worry about.

So this is "good-bye" ..... for now! I'm sure I'll be back!

Arnold Artisan Flat Breads.... They're Just Plain AWESOME

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:55:00 +0000

When I got an email asking if I wanted to try a new product from Arnold, of course I said "SURE."
I was pleasantly surprised when I received the package, look at all the loot I scored!
I love love love all the new flat breads that are out on the market but these are different.

The Arnold Artisan Ovens Flatbreads are actual flatbreads, not "flat rolls." They come in 3 different flavors Original, Multi Grain and Savory Herb. I immediately wanted to try the Savory Herb! I made myself a mini pizza in my toaster oven. (sorry, I was soo excited I forgot to take a picture of it) It was AWESOME!
I then went to the website (ArnoldArtisanOvens.com) to get recipe ideas. Wow, there are so many yummy things to try out.
Go try some for yourself, you won't be sorry!

Toast Sticks

Bacon and Eggs

Tide..... Saving Money and The Enviornment

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 23:22:00 +0000

I was given the opportunity by SheSpeaks to try out Tide's new compact powder detergent.
I don't normally use Tide or powders but I thought, "it can't hurt to try something different... right?"
I tend to use too much detergent, whether it's laundry soap or even dishwasher soap and I've learned that doesn't make anything cleaner, it's just a waste.

I used the product just as directed and I thought it worked as good as my liquid laundry soap. I'm SOLD!

Proctor & Gamble (makers of Tide) are running a campaign called "Future Friendly"
where they are empowering consumers to save water, energy and reduce waste. The new Tide Ultra Compact does all those things and as far as I'm concerned it's saving money as well.

Why don't you give it a try? If you head to the Tide's website you can get a coupon to save yourself money too.

"D" Day...

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 11:35:00 +0000

.....and we all know what "D" Day stands for, right? I can't believe how out of control I have gotten with my eating (and drinking). It's actually quite disgusting! It's time to put an END to this madness ONCE AND FOR ALL!
This post was a long time coming. I had started writing it 4 weeks ago, then that day all HELL had broken loose and I never finished it. I am not the type of person who when they are stressed out or depressed to NOT eat. I WISH, because if that was the case, I would weigh about 85lbs!! Unfortunately, I go in the opposite direction and stuff my face with whatever is in front of it (and then some).
I know it's really all just excuses. Shit is going to happen. Stress and jerky people are always going to be in my life, so I just have to learn to deal with it.
For the past few months I've been dealing with severe fatigue and chronic headaches. My doctor ordered blood work and Friday was my follow up appointment. When the nurse brought me back, we went into the dreaded "back room" (ya know, the one where THE SCALE IS! da, da daaaa daa dummm) I could not believe my eyes when I saw the number!! I NEVER weighed that much EVER, even 9 months pregnant with my 1st son! I have to start working on losing some of this weight now for many reasons. There is a possibility I will have to be put on high doses of prednisone and that can cause sleeplessness, irritability and weight gain. HELLOOOOO, those are three departments I already struggle with. I decided I have to do something now, I can't just sit back anymore and do this to myself and my body anymore.

I am going to do something I never had the guts to do before, I am going to post my outrageous number here in black and white.........

262lbs

CrAzY, I know... Well, all I can do is go DOWN from there, right? I am hoping to do it with the support of my online family and all the Mamavation Sistas. I will accept any advise, tips, tricks and a kick in the butt when needed!

Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Tina) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 13:57:00 +0000

My mom at Robert Wheeler State Beach in Narragansett, RI