Marie's Chic Stop a~la mode

The Greatest Gift - Being MOM

2008-12-25T05:36:00.001-08:00

The picture says it all!

From the day they were born, giving kisses and hugs, witnessing their first words and first steps, making cookies and meals together, car pools, crafts, play dates, watching them run around at the park, wiping snotty noses, being room mom, never sleeping because staying up late to watch over them while they are sick, dancing in our PJ's together, laughing, singing silly songs in the car, having them sneak into my bed and getting kicked all night, teaching them to ride a bike, brush their teeth, tie their shoes, comb their hair, kissing boo boos, calming their fears, kid yoga, jamin' on the piano and guitar, watching play sports, playing soccor, football, basketball and hide and seek, happiness, just seeing their faces when they see what Santa put under the Christmas Tree!

The greatest gift ever is being a MOM!

Red Carpet Event in LA

2008-11-23T13:05:00.000-08:00

I am so proud to say I have a best friend who is a fashion designer! Come on!....What more can a girl ask for??? The name...... HILTON HOLLIS http://www.hiltonhollis.com/

So..... I ask Hilton to make me a dress for the Red Carpet Event in Los Angels for the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and OMG! French lace and the works he pulled out just to make my dress for me!

I gotta brag about him just a little more....this man- not only has talent but a huge heart! He is working on a project with me for St. Jude and using his time and talent to help those children!

The event started off with a unique auction and then a fashion show. It was amazing! St. Jude had the help from Disney so the production was incredible! Lots of Celebrities came to the event. It was so surreal to have some celebrities approach me to ask me what I was wearing and I so proudly said.. "a Hilton Hollis!"

A great time was had by all!

50 Women Who Make a Difference

2008-09-27T06:54:00.000-07:00

I was very honored be be selected as one of the 50 Women Who Make a Difference - Memphis Women Magazine 2008.

I had some great friends come support me at the dinner event.

I am also very proud that one of my best pals, Teri Murphy-Hutson was also selected.

Great Memories!

Meet my friend AUGUSTO !

2008-08-01T03:25:00.000-07:00

I was introduced to Augusto about two years ago.....

I have since then purchased a few of his pieces which include 2 necklaces and a beautiful angel that is hanging in my sun room.

Augusto has a beautiful soul and a giving heart! He will be helping me with a project that I am doing for the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

If you are in Miami - you need to meet him!

You can read more about Augusto and see more of his work by visiting his website at http://www.astreaazul.com/

SEX AND THE CITY Birthday Bash

2008-06-01T08:31:00.000-07:00

OMG! What a fab time! The movie was great! I had 52 total guests at my private party at the theatre to watch Sex and the City.

We had movie popcorn, drank fountain drinks in bio-degradable cups with Marie's Sex and the City Birthday Bash engraved in pink. We ate pink Cupcakes decorated with Martini Glasses and Shoes.

During the scavenger hunt, Hillary won the prize for finding the Flashing Diamond Ring, Kim won for finding the Martini Glass and Carrie won for finding the high heel shoe!

Kennedy from 107.5FM was Emcee for the bash and asked four trivia questions - the winners received prizes and all my guest received some fab goodie bags with my favorite Bon Jovi songs burned onto a CD and each got a sample of perfumes.

I received some fab gifts and the best was raising a little money for Green Hope Foundation too!

Turning 38 is Fabulous! Especially when you celebrate with your girlfriends and people you love!

GO RED!

2008-05-20T03:41:00.000-07:00

My grandmother suffered from heart disease most of her adult life and with my own health concerns and from panic attacks - I am passionate about bringing awareness about taking care of your heart! I was so honored to be asked to co-chair the GO RED for Women Fashion Show & Luncheon this year!

(Picture of me and Jennifer (AHA PR Director)

Below is a photo of the Circle of Red Ladies:

For more info visit http://www.goredforwomen.org/

Bon Jovi, Intelligence and Cupcakes!

2008-05-06T19:45:00.000-07:00

Well.......my trip to Nashville was awesome! The guys (Bon Jovi) were at their finest!
I saw an old pal from high school and Hilary and I had lots of fun!
A great time to add to the memories!
This month, I am approaching my 38th Birthday and my 20 yr high school reunion is around the corner! Where did the time fly???? Well.......as Jon Bon Jovi sings.......it's not old just older! Speaking of older..............
I am seeking more knowledge & wisdom A great friend of mine (Suzi) gave me a great book called "Emotional Intelligence". It is a must read! By Daniel Goleman.
http://www.danielgoleman.info/blog/
CHECK IT OUT!

And... as I am getting older....the more need to watch health and keep fit! But.......Muddy's Bake Shop just opened and WOW~ yummy cupcakes!
check this out too! http://muddysbakeshop.com/

Well......time to watch what I TIVO'd and catch some zzzzz's.............

Welcome to Wherever You Are!

2008-04-19T06:38:00.000-07:00

I am getting excited about my first drive to Nashville, TN with my good pal, Hilary! We are going to see .......JON BON JOVI in concert next week-whoooo hoooo!

This is why I love this band - their songs kick butt! (see below)

"Welcome To Wherever You Are"

Maybe we're different, but we're still the same

We all got the blood of Eden, running through our veins

I know sometimes it's hard for you to see

You come between just who you are and who you wanna be

If you feel alone, and lost and need a friend

Remember every new beginning, is some beginning's end

Welcome to wherever you are

This is your life, you made it this far

Welcome, you gotta believe

That right here right now, you're exactly where you're supposed to be

Welcome, to wherever you are

When everybody's in, and you're left out

And you feel your drowning, in a shadow of a doubt

Everyones a miracle in their own way

Just listen to yourself, not what other people say

When it seems you're lost, alone and feeling down

Remember everybody's different

Just take a look around

Be who you want to, be who you are

Everyones a hero, everyones a star

When you wanna give up, and your hearts about to break

Remember that you're perfect, God makes no mistakes

Yes........We are all perfect !!!!

Celebrating Women, Amplifying Voices and Raising Hope!

2008-04-17T19:57:00.001-07:00

"Celebrating Women, Amplifying Voices and Raising Hope"...........that was the theme at this years Women’s Foundation for Greater Memphis www.wfgm.org Tribute Luncheon.

I am on the board of the Women's Foundation for Greater Memphis and I have to say....To me, it is an honor to be on the board and to be a part of this group of great women who empower and inspire others! They are very dedicated to helping women & children and the community.
(above Photo of Gloria Reuben and me)
The pre-party was hosted at the home of Gayle Rose. It was held on the night of April 14th and the luncheon was on the 15th. It was elegant and welcoming! I got to meet the keynote speaker, Gloria Reuben, actress from ER (and she is also a former Tina Turner’s backup singer/dancer). Gloria was very sweet and approachable!

My wonderful girlfriend Leisel “Q” Quamie (celebrity fashion stylist) http://www.lqstyles.com)/came to town and stayed with my family and I. She was one of the speakers at the post youth event (By the way….I am wearing Hilton Hollis in the photo below with "Q") Leisel is an amazing woman with great talent! I was happy to share her with everyone – I am so proud of her and her mission with Beauty & Love.
The next day, “Q” and I stopped by to see my other beautiful and talented friend, Mary Beth Conely, (anchor for Live @ 9, WREG) at the Peabody Place. “Q” was on the show that morning before the luncheon to discuss her non-profit organization, share her background, showed photos of her celebrity clients and most importantly announce the youth event for the WFGM.

(Photo of Me, Mary Beth and “Q”)

The luncheon was such a success with about 1400 ppl. It was fabulous!!!! Below is a photo of all my girlfriends at my table (they all are amazing, beautiful and powerful)!

(Top: “Q”, Mona, Suzi, Lynn, Karen, Sharon, and Arisa Bottom: Me, Ashley, Terri and Mehri)

Watch this movie!

2008-04-11T13:46:00.000-07:00

Something someone sent to me - a must see!

Enjoy!

Marie

www.dashpoemmovie.com

Giving Back is the new BLACK!

2008-04-09T21:48:00.000-07:00

Yep…I stole the phrase! Green is the new black too! : )

Last night, I watched American Idol with my son (he claims he will be the next American Idol – in my eyes he already is and so is my daughter!) Hee hee!

While watching, I thought to myself....I am glad someone is doing something on TV worthwhile! I was happy to see TV doing something to bring awareness and funds to help the world and children!

Not only is going “Green” becoming a trend but…giving back is too!

This is such a powerful thing and it can be very contagious! All for the good! A definite healing for the whole world!

Speaking of giving back….My friend Michael P. Maness (MIKE), an artist who has such amazing talent and a huge heart- gives back! You have to check out his works of art http://www.artbympm.com/
He is an inspiration – read his story on his website!

This is my favorite piece – because it's the one he did for me!
I love my Frankie! Thanks Mike!

(by the way......

I am voting for Doug Cook - he is a rocker! Just like my Bon Jovi!)

THE VIEW and my view!

2008-04-09T12:36:00.000-07:00

Being a Mom is one of the greatest jobs I have! At times, the most stressful but… the BEST! Being a mom comes with big-time responsibility!!!! What I teach them and how they view me is going to make them the people they become! Whew…what pressure! It is all worth it! I think I have the most adorable children in the world – even when they don’t listen! : )

I had a “Me” day and decided to watch some TV while I had the house all to myself while kids were at school and hubby out of the house - I watched THE VIEW. On the show, Elisabeth Hasselbeck (one of the co-host) is a mother of two. She really gets to me every time I watch THE VIEW – it truly amazes me! I watched how one little beautiful woman raising children who is in the spotlight could have so much ignorance - with all the opportunity – all the mistakes we learned from generations before us – I mean…. I guess it is still a work in progress…but…again…when you are a mother and you are raising little women or men you have to be more aware of what you are putting out there…. especially on TV! I really think as a mother - you really need to THINK before you speak or act! I am not perfect no one is......but….

I still can’t believe where we are today – some (who I think are) intelligent women are so narrow-minded and the (in my mind) have these “closed” beliefs. In this day and age we need to be more open! There really is no more room for closed ignorance anymore! If you are raising little ones, they need to be raised with an open mind along with guidance and love! Yes…there are boundaries… but… you cannot raise someone to think their views are what are the right and the law and that is it! The only God is GOD himself (or whatever higher power there is) and there is “right” and there is “wrong”. To have a one-track mind is really scary and dangerous to me!

I think they have Elisabeth Hasselbeck on the show mostly for ratings and to spark up a fire and make us realize there are still people out there that believe like this and the need for change – I guess that’s why the call it THE VIEW!

Every time I watch, I want to reach in the TV and shake her (Elisabeth) ha ha!
I always think…OMG! – It is like they casted the Dumb Blond for THE VIEW!

I get so embarrassed for her at times – to go on national TV and react the way she does and promotes her motherhood - I am scared! I hope by watching her other mommies her age will realize she is whacked! : )

Anyway…don’t mean to go off on such a beautiful gal but it brought my attention to the needs of some more education on issues of people, the real world and needs to not open mouth before actually walking in someone’s shoes or going through the experiences.
It also helps me realize in myself what I need to really be doing as a mother and what responsibilities I have to teach my children to be better humans!

Even though I also think TV should be more responsible in the bigger picture of things and we need to make a change in ourselves what we are watching – I can’t help but watch! It is like a drug! I watch because I want to see what this mommy, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, says so I can get angry at her! Maybe I need some therapy! Ha ha ha ha!

Here is a great website launching soon http://www.womenswisdomnetwork.com/ -it is dedicated to help other women in many areas.

Also…check out Mid-South Moms http://www.midsouthmoms.com/
A great website for Mommies!

Water Filteration

2008-04-07T06:46:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of meeting Cindy Crawford many years ago through a mutual co-worker who went to high school with Cindy in Illinois. I remember it was a hard time for her (as it was during her divorce from Richard Geer). I do remember thinking what beauty she had not only on the outside - but inside! She is brought up with loving surroundings and her goals, integrity and beliefs are similar to mine. I do admire her because I noticed what she says, is what she does and there is no stopping this intelligent women! I like her!

Well......I also have to admit I got mad at her (just a little) cuz' she got to make out with my Jon Bon Jovi in a Christmas video! hee hee!

Like some of us moms, Cindy is doing things to create attention to the water problems and green issues. (Regarding the below info) This was brought to my attention this morning so I wanted to pass this along.

See what Cindy has to say and check this out!
PUR Water Filtration is partnering up with model Cindy Crawford to help promote the use of filtered tap water and reduce consumption of the bottled kind. The campaign, which is launching this May, is called “Thirsty for Change” and will include Crawford designing her own eco-chic reusable water bottle — with all proceeds from the sales going towards Children’s Safe Drinking Water; a program which is dedicated to providing safe drinking water to impoverished children around the world. Said Crawford,
“Like me, many moms today are concerned about the environment. We all want to live a little greener and do our part for the planet and for the health our families. The good news is that even small changes can make a huge impact on the environment. And that’s great news for my family because changes that fit easily into our hectic routine are the ones that are going to stick.
That’s why I would like to share some easy, green tips for other moms out there. They’ve worked in my house. I have learned that getting the whole family involved shows the kids that being eco-friendly can be fun!”

I (Marie) have had PUR water filtration in my home for some years now - I do have water shipped to my home and I am very picky not only what I drink & eat, but what my children put in their bodies as well - People call me a water snob! ha ha!

Hey.......just like some people like their wine! I like my water!

BYOB !

2008-04-04T17:04:00.000-07:00

That is...........Bring Your Own Bag!

My friend Teri from Clean Green Moms got me started on this pledge!

As some of you know, Leonardo Dicaprio's new movie sponsored by Shaklee is called the 11th Hour and his mission is to start educating and promoting people to go green - he is requesting individuals to make a pledge. His pledge is to start making a small difference by cutting plastic bags out of your life (BYOB) Bring Your Own Bag with you to the grocery store, farmers market, and retail stores. Not only will you be reducing the amount of plastic you are consuming but you will be showing fellow shoppers, and store owners how easy it is to stop using plastic.

He says.....Pay attention to all the other plastic that you are consuming in the form of beverage bottles, food wrapping, product containers, and toys. Take it to the next level:1. Bring your own mug to the coffee shop.2. Use a reusable water bottle.3. Buy beverages in glass and products packaged in cardboard or some other renewable resource. Our planet is choking on plastic, but you can make a difference.

You can sign this pledge - I did (I am number 1752).

Check out http://www.leonardodicaprio.org/pledge/

Can't wait to see the movie!

Also check out his Kids site http://www.leonardodicaprio.org/kids/

Way to go Leonardo! He is Italian, he is Green and he has the same name as my brother and Dad! What a man! Wooohoooo!

Girlfriends are the best!

2008-04-01T20:05:00.000-07:00

This evening I attended a dinner for the Jefferson Awards sponsored by the Commercial Appeal. It was a fabulous event! I was nominated by my good friend, Julie and selected as one of the many nominee's in the city that volunteer their time and talents to help others. I was so honored to even be considered as part of this group of nominee's. The 10 selected winners where some incredible people that I was so impressed by - I was so moved by each of their stories and what they do for others. I did not feel I have accomplished enough to even be nominated but I tell ya.......Girlfriends always got your back and just when you think what you do does not go noticed or when you have a bad day.......Girlfriends are there to cheer you on and encourage you! I so appreciate all my Girlfriends that I have!

This evening taught me what real volunteerism is all about and how special Girlfriends can be! As I previously wrote in my blog.....The Lesson...The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care!

This is a picture of my good friends (Girlfriends) Julie and Terri, me in the middle during the Jefferson Awards.

A Fab Find for Health!

2008-03-17T06:53:00.000-07:00

I am really not one for many diets - don't believe in them - I mean....I am talking about the fast ones to loose weight. I am not into the quick fix. I do not believe there is a better way to loose weight other than to do it with foods - the healthy natural way in moderation.

I also feel that there is no reason for supplements - they are sometimes a turn off to me - I am just one that believes in eating right and the right amounts. You can do it the healthy way!

Well........after saying all that - I was reading the body + soul magazine over the weekend and I found a fab find! I ordered it immediately! It is called GO Greens - all natural and 70% organic no sugar - it is a blend of veggies and fruit - you add to a bottled water.

I thought...hummm....I may change my mind a little...... this seemed perfect for me! And for moms on-the-go! This is perfect when you want to get some more veggies an fruits into your diet while on the go! I liked it for one reason..........when I am out to eat- I always order a bottled water and this was perfect for me to take along for those occasions when there is not enough choices of totally healthy meals on the menu. I can add to my water and even if my children are ordering chicken tenders and there are no healthy veggies for them to eat - they can drink this to get them into their meal.

I checked out the website and got more educated on the product. See for yourself http://www.togobrands.com/.

I still think you should just do the all natural and whole food way but I think this is a fab find to get more servings into your diet for occasions like when you are out to eat.

The real people who make a difference in your life!

2008-03-13T14:29:00.000-07:00

I want to thank everyone for sending such positive emails and ideas to talk about on my blog. I had to send this one out because of its meaning. Be around people that care, it's not about awards, it's about really making a difference in a life - to be kind and care about someone else!

Charles Schultz Philosophy

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schultz, the creator of the 'Peanuts' comic strip. You don't have to actually answer the questions. Just read the email straight through, and you'll get the point.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America.
4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.
How did you do?
The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten. Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one;

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special.
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier?

The Lesson...The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards.

They are the ones that care!

Don't worry about the world coming to an end today.

It's already tomorrow in Australia' (Charles Schultz)

Trust your "SPIDEY" senses!

2008-03-12T07:03:00.000-07:00

A friend sent me this story below via email – I am not sure if it is true or not but I do know that things like this are possible because of a similar experience I have had and I do know people who commit crime are getting more BOLD and cleaver about crime.

I just want to share this with you so you can keep your guard up and teach your children to trust their instincts and be more cautious. Even though we live in the free world and we do not want to live in fear – just being careful and making the right choices can save your life! Moral………Be careful, use your “spidey” senses and always be cautious!

My story:
I was at a gas station during the day – just right after picking the kids up from school and a nice man approached me when I was out of my car pumping gas into my vehicle – He looked very nice and said he needed money because he said he left this wallet at home and his children and wife where down the block sitting in his car that ran out of gas. Now…to keep this story short…basically what this was all about…this was a man looking for money to purchase drugs. There was a car waiting for him behind my car. I knew something was not right so I put my guard up and luckily there where people around to protect me – I told him I did not have money to give him that he should go into the store and ask for them to help and then luckily a police car drove into the station to get some gas so who knows what could have happen but once he saw the police car he got into the car behind me and drove off – I did tell the police officer and I am not sure what he did with the info but at least nothing had happen to me and my babies!

This is another story (below) that can hit home!

The story I received in email:

I live in Alexandria, VA, but I often work in Lafayette, LA, staying with friends when I'm there. As you know from America 's Most Wanted TV program, as well as the news media, there is a serial killer in the Lafayette area. I just want to let you know about an 'incident' that happened to me a few weeks ago, and could have been deadly. At first I didn't go to the police or anyone with it because I didn't realize how serious this encounter was. But since I work in a jail and I told a few people about it, it wasn't long before I was paraded into Internal Affairs to tell them my story. It was approximately 5:15 a.m. In Opelousas, La. I had stayed with a friend there and was on my way to work. I stopped at the Exxon/Blimpie Pie station to get gas. I got $10 gas and a Diet Coke. I took into the store two $5 bills and one $1 bill (just enough to get my stuff). As I pulled away from the store, a man approached my truck from the backside of the store (an unlit area). He was an 'approachable-looking' man (clean cut, clean shaven, dressed well, etc.). He walked up to my window and knocked. Since I'm very paranoid and 'always looking for the rapist or killer,' I didn't open the window. I just asked what he wanted. He raised a $5 bill to my window and said, 'You dropped this.' Since I knew I had gone into the store with acertain amount of money, I knew I didn't drop it. When I told him it wasn't mine, he began hitting the window and door, screaming at me to open my door, and insisting that I had dropped the money! At that point, I just drove away as fast as I could. After talking to the Internal Affairs Department and describing the man I saw, and the way he escalated from calm and polite to angry and volatile...it was determined that I could have possibly encountered the serial killer myself. Up to this point, it had been unclear as to how he had gained access to his victims, since there has been no evidence of forced entry into victim's homes, cars, etc. And the fact that he has been attacking in the daytime, when women are less likely to have their guard up, means he is pretty BOLD. So think about it...what gesture is nicer than returning money to someone that dropped it????? How many times would you have opened your window (or door) to get your money and say thank you.... Because if the person is kind enough to return something to you, then he can't really be a threat....can he???? Please be cautious! This might not have been the serial killer... But anyone that gets that angry over someone not accepting money from them can't have honorable intentions. The most important thing to note is that his reaction was NOT WHAT I EXPECTED! A total surprise! But what might have happened if I had opened my door? I shudder to think! Forward this to everyone you know...maybe they can be as fortunate as I was!

You do not have to live in fear but just be careful – protect yourselves – always trust your “spidey” senses and know your surroundings to protect yourself and your loved ones!

GREEN is the new BLACK!

2008-03-06T06:46:00.000-08:00

Everyone seems to be going green! A great product is featured in INSTYLE Magazine this month! Check out page 338 in the magazine - a great nontoxic product for your home!

I became a independent distributor with a company that has been around for more than 50 years. Talk shows are promoting these wonderful products for your home and health.
You can purchase these wonderful product by visiting the Green Planet Health website.
http://www.greenplanethealth.com/ , we partner with Physicians and their staff to offer a range of health and wellness products for their patients.

There is also a weight loss plan you can check out at http://www.cinchplan.com/greenplanethealth/home

The Rocky Balboa in me!

2008-03-05T14:25:00.000-08:00

Life just took a punch and almost knocked you out, what do you do?
Just lay there until they call you out for the count or do you get up and take a swing back at life?

I find the Rocky Balboa in me comes out almost every day. When life or someone tries to take me down I usually swing back to and show I am not going down without a fight!

There are lots of curve balls that life throws at you but don’t give up!

Lately, my ear has been hearing of panic attacks, depression, fear and the questions on spirituality. A lot of women and men are suffering from panic attacks and are still afraid to address the issue or talk about it. I myself, have had some panic attacks and I tell you…. they are not anything I would even want to wish upon my worse enemy! (Well…maybe! ha!) Seriously, these attacks are real and can cripple a person!
There is nothing to be ashamed of - everyone has some type of issue there is nothing wrong with getting help and really you are the stronger person if you make the choice to actually do something about it!

Stress can have a toll on you and people’s bodies deal with stress in different ways. But the key is to have a healthy life and reduce the stresses on your body. Just like we exercise our bodies and eat well to be fit, I really think it is necessary we also exercise our minds by meditation, relaxation and an exercise of seeing a therapist to actual talk out the stress. It should be in your weekly routine! : )

There is always help whether you decide to start a healthier lifestyle in mind, body & soul or the route of medications under a legal doctors care. It is very helpful to talk to your doctor, friends or family about these attacks and help you to heal! There is that quote, "this to shall pass!" And I always remember those words that Scarlet O’Hara said in Gone with the Wind, “For tomorrow is another day!” And like Morgan Freeman in that movie Shaw shank Redemption “Get busy living or get busy dieing”.

Let’s all get busy living!
Living green, living free, living healthy and living the truth!

Great websites:
http://www.nopanic.org.uk/
http://www.angeltherapy.com/
http://www.astreaazul.com/
http://www.chopra.com/
http://healthychild.org/about/mission/

Hunger, Bake Sales and Rain.........

2008-03-03T19:20:00.000-08:00

It is amazing how reading an email or one article can affect a mood or make you determined to make a change.........

Yesterday, I talked about a great cookbook to have for children and then I read an article regarding how children are going hungry today. A dear friend emailed me some info and thought this was a mission I would be very interested in. This definitely got my attention!

"Imagine what it's really like to go hungry," then imagine what that must be like for a small child, how that must make them feel, completely lesser-than in every way; they're not good enough to get food?"

The Great American Bake Sale was created in the charity Share Our Strength in partnership with PARADE Magazine. This year it runs from May 19 to August 31. Rachael Ray is promoting the Great American Bake Sale, a national campaign in which participants hold bake sales this summer to raise money to feed hungry children. Find more info about it at http://www.greatamericanbakesale.org/ or check out this article http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2007-05-20-rachael-ray_N.htm
You can find recipes and bake sale tips by another Food Network star Sandra Lee for your own Great American Bake Sale. Here's the link:
http://gabs.strength.org/site/PageServer?pagename=GABS_getinvolved_participants

It just makes me think how fortunate I was to have a roof over my head and the parents that I have! I am grateful to have what I have today! We did not have much when I was growing up but my mother and father made sure we ate healthy meals. I look at my children and think how truly blessed my husband and I are to have them in our lives and we are going to make sure they eat well, have a happy long life and they feel they have enough! I wish I could save every child in need out there! If I can help someone else- my life would not be only blessed, but...whole!

Now....to play a happier note......It has been raining here and speaking of rain, I kinda loves these days (If I do not have a meeting to go to) I do not like going out! I just love to cuddle with a throw wrapped around me on the couch and read a good book! If you are in the mood for a good personal freedom book, check out "The Four Agreements" (by Don Miguel Ruiz). My mentor, friend and "sister", Terri Murphy-Hutson www.TerriMurphy.com gave me this book with a bookmark that reads "I will live this day as if it were Christmas. I will be a giver of gifts and deliver to my enemies the gift of forgiveness; my opponents, tolerance; my friends, a smile; my children, a good example; and every gift will be wrapped with unconditional love. Quoted by Og Mandino.

Enjoy the liquid sunshine and have a fabulous day!

DECEPTIVELY DELICIOUS!

2008-03-03T03:46:00.000-08:00

It is a Monday! This is my “Me” day! I always try to schedule a day (or at least half a day) for just me! It is very important to give yourself some time for your mind and body!

Well, It is all about meetings this morning then off to get my weekly massage by Suzi. I treasure my Suzi days! But before I head off ………I am going to make a great breakfast for the kids and I. (My husband always eats his raw oatmeal w/applesauce and cinnamon - that’s an ex-body builder for ya!). I have enjoyed this cookbook by Jessica Seinfeld http://deceptivelydelicious.com/site/ (the author is the wife of actor, Jerry Seinfeld), called “Deceptively Delicious”. It has inspired me to be more creative and make up my own recipes and substitute veggies and fruits into foods that I make for my family.

I have been making my own baby food for the kids since they were little but now that they have discovered snacks at school that have BHT and Hydrogenated Oils, I am struggling to get them to ask for healthier foods. There is that saying and theory that “you need to disease your body in order for it to know how to heal itself” but I want to educate my kids on how to eat better and not eat all those diseased foods so they know how to have a healthy lifestyle. Most of all my life, I have been a healthy eater and into body maintenance. I feel it is very important to start young on eating well so you can have a long life! So, if I can be deceptional, in other words, “what they don’t know really will not kill them-seriously!” and sneak some veggies and fruits into our meals they will think they are eating awesome foods like cupcakes and hamburgers but what they will not know is that there is spinach, pumpkin, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts in it too! ha ha! It is a WIN –WIN!

I think my kids are on to me because they know I put pureed pumpkin into the chocolate cupcakes – but they are sooo good! They ate them right up! I do not think this recipe is in the cookbook but I put pureed beets into the pasta sauce and we had fun with the color - the kids and I called it blood spaghetti - of coarse my son loved that idea! ha!

Most of the time my kids love to help me in the kitchen so this is fun for them to create some healthy recipes and naming them. If your kids discover what you are doing -tell them it is the “SECRETE” recipe that no one knows about! Then it becomes something really fun! So….the moral to this blog is ……..eat healthy, teach your kids to be healthy and get them in the kitchen to help to educate them on having a healthier lifestyle! Not only for them but for yourself and family too!

Since I am one of the chairs for the Go Red for Women Luncheon I want to give you some other
facts and info: Heart Disease is the No. 1 killer of women –and of men but with Childhood Obesity being at an all-time high- we need to start becoming good role models so our children learn at an early age how to maintain a healthy lifestyle for years to come. Let’s all eat healthy, take control so we can live a long happy life without heart disease!
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION see more info at http://www.goredforwomen.org/

Eat well, live long and eat deceptional delicious foods! : )

TO INFINITY and beyond!

2008-03-02T11:03:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I mentioned briefly about my son and his broken leg. Well…. during that time I did not know what I was going to do as far as driving him in the car (since his leg was in a full leg cast and there was no way to make sure he was properly strapped in for safety). It so happened that my wonderful husband bought me an Infiniti Q56 for Christmas and what a relief! My son was able to sit all the way in the back with the passenger seat folded down and he was safe (strapped in properly) and his leg was able to stretch out and we even had room for the wheelchair in the back! I can’t say enough about my pals at Infinity! They have been so nice to include me in their AD campaigns and mention all the charities I am involved with and they made the announcement about my http://www.mariesmission.com/. Thank you to Infiniti! They have gone beyond! And one more shout out to John and Stan from Infinity!

Okay...........
Speaking of beyond…I met a beautiful, talented and a good-hearted soul last night. Her name is Adrienne. Her husband is a judge and actor and she is a fellow mover & shaker. I am so happy to meet people who don’t just talk about making change! This gal seems to have taken the crap that comes with the challenge and made it happen! Way to go Adrienne!
http://www.bbbsmem.org/.

I don’t want to really whine about people who use self-promotion or take the credit for things they did not really deserve, but I think I am in the mood to draw attention to another issue I have noticed lately. Now, I know at one time or another we like self promotion and sometimes we may all do it and I know sometimes I am self rightness and persistent but at least if you do something like all that – then actually have a balls to do the job or do the work and don’t just take credit for something when you really did not do anything to deserve it! YEAH!

I learned a great lesson over the past year and that is how to treat others. There is that old saying….”Treat others as you want to be treated”. And…be kind to people! There is enough love to go around for everyone and there is no reason to act harshly or hateful to anyone. Things can be worked out and there is a Reaction to every Action you do! The universe does work in the way of, what goes around comes around! So…be careful what you say and do!
Also…. to all those mean girls out there! Grow up! What ever happen to as you get older you are suppose to act like an adult! Ha ha! Especially if you are a Mother – OMG! Set a better example for your children! Well…. If you are one that has ever encountered a “Mean Girl” or “Mean BOY”..I say…Don’t be afraid! Raise your head up high! As long as you live the truth that is all that matters! What comes around goes around!!!!
Just be kind! Go hug a damn tree to get some good energy on you! Feel better about yourself! Get some confidence!!!!! Get over insecurity!!!! I have been talking to that little girl in me and I am on my way!

Well, I am done with my bloggin' today, but before I go I would like to say,
“I wish all of you enough!”
Off I go………. to Infinity and Beyond..............!

little Divas, big Divas and finding the right Diva!

2008-03-01T11:57:00.000-08:00

Before I start blogin’ away, I just want to say, “thank you” to everyone who has emailed to tell me that they liked my Blog. I do find my ego loving this! Ha ha! As one person stated, “You go girl! You finally got your Marie Show! Ha ha! Yes, it is my chance to have a voice! Ha ha!

My daughter and I just returned from a Princess Tea Party…no… it was not Tiara Tea Society! Ha! But…. it was all little divas in a room dressing up in little princess dresses and having tea to celebrate a birthday girl. I love my life! I am professional (at least I like to think so), corporate-minded business woman during the week- then- I get to do things like have this dress up fun with little girls on weekends! Hee hee! Too cool!

Speaking of Princess Party’s and tea, I did create this blog mostly to spread the word on my friends and things I want to bring attention to. With that in mind, check out Victoria’s Traveling Tea Party http://www.victoriastravelingteaparty.com/ . The owner, Vicki is such a sweet soul! She has helped with Tiara Tea Society during our Mother, Daughter & Friendship Tea and inspires little girls to have great manners and to be fabulous little princesses! She is the best! Thank you Vicki for all that you do!!!

As for us Diva Moms and adults who like to still dress up, check out http://www.tiarateasociety.com/. My dear friend, Eva Lynn and I created this club all for the purpose to help a little girl each year. We wanted to bring great women together, have fun while dressing up in ball gowns, and sip some tea too! : ) I recently retired from TTS due to the journey I want to take in my life, but I still have the title of Founder-Emeritus and will continue to support TTS in anyway I can! Make sure to check it out! The annual membership goes directly to the little girl in need each year! This year, it is all about ICHF http://www.babyheart.org/. Also.....check out my diva friend "Q", she is the best stylist and one of the most fabulous divas I am proud to know! http://lqstyles.com/

While my daughter and I were having our fun today, my husband and son went to baseball practice. My son loves baseball! He had to limp around the field today due to a recent injury on his leg. (The injury was a broken leg due to a 200 lb. TV falling on his legs). I am bringing this up because I want to address a serious issue.............

Watch your babies!!! Make sure if you cannot watch your babies – make sure to have someone responsible who can!

On Christmas Eve day, I left my children with a baby-sitter. She came highly recommended from a service that I have used for many years. The baby-sitter is in her late 40’s, very responsible (we thought) and a loving teacher-type person. Unfortunately, I have to rely on help sometimes because I do not have any family members living near me who I can trust with my children. My husband was at work that morning and I was doing last minuet shopping with my gal-pal, Hilary. While we were having a girlie lunch, I got a phone call and found out that the person who I trusted with my children, who I thought was a very responsible person - decided to leave my son unattended. My son (thinking now he was ruler of the house) decided to go into our bedroom and climb up the TV cabinet and pulled down the huge TV and it landed on his legs. I have TV cameras inside and out of my home and I do background checks and I come from being raised by a mother who was president of Child Find (for missing & abused children) so.. I am really annal who cares for my children. But, no matter how careful you can be, how much knowledge you have, who you think you can leave your children with – you always have to be careful!!! Just wanted to put that out there!!! You are your children’s cheerleaders and caretakers! I know accidents happen but…you really need to make sure your children are around responsible people! I call it my "Christmas Miracle" because it truly was a miracle nothing else happened – I mean…if that TV fell on his head or chest…enough said!!! So…make sure to take care and be responsible for the little ones out there!

Okay…. off I go to wake up my precious ones and give them lots and lots of kisses! And…until we blog again, keep this in mind…. The hardest job kids face today is learning good manners without seeing any. ---Fred Astaire

I got that quote from Terre Gorham, editor of Downtowner Magazine. Thanks Terre!

oohhhh.......and speaking of editors and Diva's! I want to close by telling you to check out Skirt Magazine and the editor's blog http://www.idivamemphis.com/ - I do not know her yet but does seem to be a cool Diva! I like what she writes!

2008-02-29T06:55:00.000-08:00

Today, I am in a great mood! My kids are still a little sick but doing fine! We ate our healthy breakfast and danced in our PJ's to "WE GOT IT GOIN' ON"by Bon Jovi.

Speaking of Bon Jovi.....I am inspired to spread the word about my dear friend Don Hutson! He is a ROCK STAR! I love Bon Jovi but......this guy..."letametellya" (aka Let me tell you!).....not only is he married to one of my best friends who I will introduce later....but this guy can fly his own plane, write books and who knows....play the piano too?!

Okay...here is today's FAB find! You must check out his website at http://www.donhutson.com/.
Make sure to reserve one of his books "The One Minute Entrepreneur" co-authored with Dr. Ken Blanchard (author of "The One Minute Manager") coming soon! I have full faith it will not only be one of the Best Seller's but......a book to include in your "must haves" !!!

Today, my ego is in the mood to promote my business Zazu & Valentina, LLC - check out the side bar for the website and if you want to be added to the newsletters that get e-blasted to over over 1,000 peeps - email me at zazuvalentina@aol.com. Also, again, I need people to join my team so if you want to make some extra cash on the side or just purchase good products for your home and health - sign up at http://www.greenplanethealth.com/. I won't talk about this everyday but I am on a mission to get this going!!! : ) hee hee!

Okay.....here is the hottest ticket when it comes to fashion in New York
I am screamin' "HILTON HOLLIS is in the house" http://www.hiltonhollis.com/
also speaking of NYC.....if you go to New York you must make plans to see the Ground Zero Museum Workshop : Images & Artifacts from the Recovery, which is now ranked as the 12th most popular attraction in NYC according to TripAdvisor.com. Daily 2-hr. tours sell out fast. Get tickets online at: http://www.groundzeromuseumworkshop.com/and stop by Dylan's Candy Bar too! : ). By the way, the creator of Ground Zero Museum Workshop is NYC Actor Marlon Suson, who (along with fellow writer Kim Donato) recently wrote and is workshopping his new stage play, "American Brother" which I had a chance to read, and WOW, it is powerful. (see artwork below to the right). I hope this makes it to Off-Broadway...

Well, I am off now to get clean and into some clothes other than my PJ's.....oh one more thing... make plans to be at the Southern Women's Show March 7th-9th (men can come too!)

until we BLOG again......
Take care and remember............life is too short.......go give lots of kisses to your loved ones, hug a tree (only if there is no beehives attached), or............be kind to someone today!

As my son says...Peace Out!
xxxooo