MI Savings

Are you ready for Valentines Day? Let EdenFantasys Help

2012-02-14T08:03:00.001-05:00

I have been doing a ton of Window Shopping for Valentines Day myself. And where do you think I am shopping? If you haven't guessed it - I am shopping at EdenFantasys. com. This has become my favorite site to shop at. Not only do they have sex toys - but for those who dont need them or want them - they do have a great line of other products. Some of the other products that EdenFantasys Carries are Candles, Body Products, Books, Lingerie and even clothing.

Some of my favorite products by EdenFantasys are their clothing line. I have recently purchased a couple shirts from the website. I love their tank tops. I personally Love the way my back looks - So I always look for a shirt that is Revealing in the back . I purchased the Sexy Cowl Front O-Ring Back Tank top. This is a Sleeveless Tank top that features a Draping Cowl Neckline. The back features a Strapy O-Ring. This tank top is defiantly flattering I just wish it was a hair longer - but i know over time as i loose the rest of this baby belly - it will fit even more perfect! I will have to admit that this tank top looks great in the picture and Super Amazing in real life!

This is the tank top that I think I am going to go after next! How hot is that? I love the deep V cut, but it doesn't show off EVERYTHING you own.

Make sure you check out EdenFantasys for your Valentines Day needs.

*I received a gift card to EdenFantasys in exchange for this review. All opinions expressed are that of my own.

CHECKS

2012-02-07T11:06:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Lemuel Craft
Last week I started to write a check for my son’s tuition at his preschool and realized that we had run out of checks. We rarely use checks, so I only have to order them a couple of times per year. Since we found some WildBlue Deals on internet, I decided to utilize it and order checks online. It is so much cheaper and less of a hassle to order checks online than at the bank in my opinion. I like picking out the design on the checks. Before I was married, I would order checks with animal prints or flowers. Now that I am married, my husband insists that we have some checks that are not so feminine looking. The last few pads of checks were very boring looking and were just plain blue. My husband liked them because he thought that they looked much more masculine than the checks that I normally pick. For this order, I think I will try to find some checks that are not as boring. It is really not that important what your checks look like, but I always look at peoples’ checks when they write me one.

Great Clothes - Great Prices at EdenFantasys

2012-01-16T22:07:00.000-05:00

Valentines day is just around the corner - well it is about a month away (Pweh!) Have you figured out what to get your special someone for Valentines Day? How about taking a trip through the EdenFantasys Store. This Adult Online store sells way more than just Sex Toys. They carry a line of Lingerie and candles and Clothing. And for those who don't have Significant others... How about getting something for yourself?

I have come across a TON of cute ideas for gifts for myself from EdenFantasys. One of my favorites happens to be red and white... Can you guess what it is? No..? Well I will give you a hint. It's a Matching pair. Yep, They have this cute red and white bra/panty set that I have totally fallen in love with. The panties lace up on the side - giving it a cute "pin-up" look.

Another thing that I have found to love from EdenFantasys is in the online clearance section. They have a ton of cute "club wear" outfits that I cant wait to try. My favorite right now is a blue Circlet Keyhole Halter. This is on my Next purchase list from EdenFantasys. I know it'll look cute, and it's not too revealing! Perfect for a night out with the friends!

*I received a gift card to Eden Fantasys in exchange for this post. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

Im shopping at EdenFantasys this Christmas - How about you?

2011-12-15T15:43:00.000-05:00

Are you completed with your Holiday Shopping? I am... well Almost. I do have a couple people left to shop for (Ie: my mom) I have no Clue what to get her... Then I received an update from EdenFantasys letting us know that they came out with a new line of Beauty and Body Products. If you haven't Heard about EdenFantasys, They are an online Adult Store - that Carries more than Just Sex Toys and Lingere.

I was searching through the EdenFantasys Site and came across a cute Holiday Bath and Body Set. The Vanilla Snow Woman Glistening Trio is a perfect gift for that lady who you are still shopping for. It comes complete with Vanilla snow woman glistening body wash, Vanilla snow woman glistening body mousse, and Pink icicle lip gloss. This is a perfect way to pamper your self during the cold winter seasons.

And if you are looking for something a little more intimate. Make sure you take a moment to Check out the line of Sex Toys. I love the Sutra Chainlink Cuffs and want to check out other Products from the Lelo line.

Make sure to check out EdenFantasys for you Holiday Needs! Christmas is Just around the corner.

*This post was written in exchange for a giftcard to EdenFantasys. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

Sports Authority Friends and Family - December 8-14 25% Off

2011-12-05T08:24:00.000-05:00

Sports Authority's next Friends & Family event will be held
Thursday, December 8 through Wednesday, December 14, 2011.
The attached discount coupon is good at all Sports Authority locations. (Coupon not valid online or at SA Elite locations)
The discount is 25% off any single item - exclusions apply, please see coupon for details.
One coupon per customer, per day.
Coupon must be surrendered at time of purchase.
Click Here to print Coupon to redeem in-store. Feel free to share this with all of your friends and family!

Credit card debt

2011-11-26T13:36:00.002-05:00

Post contributed by Hilton Miranda
My mom loves to shop. She grew up with her daddy’s credit card, being able to use it whenever she wanted and her dad would pay it off at the end of each month. She grew accustomed to shopping wherever she wanted to and rarely looking at price tags. When she married my dad, they could not afford for her to continue shopping the way that she had when she was growing up. She was fine with this when she was raising us, but once we were out of the house, she started back with her old habits of shopping whenever she wanted to. She got several credit cards and hit the limit on all of them. She decided that she needed to cut costs elsewhere in order to start trying to pay off the credit cards. She found out that their city of Vaughan has Oncor Energy available at a fixed rate, so at least their power bill will be predictable and lower than it normally is. I hope she finds some other ways to save money or at least can cut down on the amount of shopping that she does.

Its Halloween Time with EdenFantasys!

2011-10-28T14:52:00.003-04:00

Halloween is right around the corner... Actually it is only a couple of days away. Are you dressing up? I am wanting to dress up, but with work, its looking like I may not be able to go out this year with my son. But even though I am not planning dress up to scare the little ghouls and goblins away, I have been considering dress up to Make Halloween night a little extra special for that Someone Special. I have been browsing through EdenFantasys website, looking for great Halloween ideas. Yes, I do know that it is an Adult Shop, but we are all adults here! And they have some GREAT items! Including Costumes! Check out some of the ones I would Really like to try out this year!

I know the hottest Craze in costumes at one time was the Night School Girl Look... Well, Im pretty sure it is - Look how HOT a School Girl Can be! She's pulling of the Plaid Skirt - but in Gray Tones - Perfect for the night time Student!

What man wouldn't like his beer (or coffee for those non beer drinkers) served to him in this cute Lager Lass outfit?!?!

Currently they have a lot of Great Halloween Sales! All these Adult Toys! Can you say 20% off on all Vibes, Dildos and Masturbators??! A Girl has to have a best friend - and I'm sure you will make some best friends with some of the personal toys available on EdenFantasys.com

*I have received a gift code in exchange for this post. All opinions are 100% my own.

Cut your phone bill in half with Straight Talk

2011-10-21T15:01:00.001-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Straight Talk for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Now a days, it seems like everyone has a cell phone. Some people only have cell phones and no longer have a house phone. But the expense of cell phones tends to be rising greatly. With Straight Talk you can help cut your cellphone bill in half!

If you're worried about phone choices, don't be. They offer a variety of phones - including App Capable Phones, Touch Screen Phones and even Smart phones. Some of the features on these phones include Voice Navigation, Camera, Video Recorder Music player , instant Messaging and even blue tooth. Feel The power of Android

There is a Selection of Monthly Plans that Straight Talk offers:
- The “All You Need Plan” meets even the needs of heavy phone users with 1,000 minutes, 1,000 texts and 30 MB of web data.
-Unlimited Monthly service is only $45, and includes calls, text, picture messaging, and web.
- Can you believe that a whole year of Unlimited Calling, text, picture messaging and web can only cost you $499.00
- Where else can you make 411 calls and not be charged extra?
- You know those pesky Activation, Reactivation and Termination Fees? Well with Straight Talk, they are non existent.

The getting richer effect has expanded... by LittleBard95
Take a look at your phone contracts! I bet you will be surprised to notice the comparability of Straight Talk to your current Carrier. And with the great plans that they offer- now you can Feel Richer with Android

Up in the Air

2011-09-20T11:23:00.000-04:00

Guest post from: Bruno Smith
My new job really has my life up in the air but I have to say that I love it! I was really hoping for something like this position to come up within my company and when it did I totally pounced on it. I think I made a couple of colleagues pretty mad along the way but all that really matters is that now I’ve got the job and I’m really impressing my new bosses. I’m away from home a lot more which stinks for my dog Gray but he’s getting used to staying with the neighbor and I got some home security packages to help keep the house in order. I don’t really worry about my stuff but it’s not like I had that much stuff to begin with! I like being higher up on the corporate ladderand although I know some people hate the idea of working for a big company it’s all that makes sense to me so I’m going to keep plugging away it until I reach the top!

Wall Street

2011-07-10T12:04:00.002-04:00

Guest post written by my buddy Fidel Hernandez

One of the most intriguing films I recently watched on www.cannonsatellite.com was "Wall Street." This movie gives a glimpse into the world of insider trading, however, it provides a rather dark glimpse of this world. There is definitely a bias in this movie against wall street and all the problems it causes in society, according to this film. While I may not share the same view, I found it interesting to get an idea of what people who disdain wall street truly think about it. I also think this movie accurately depicts some of the reasons people do not like the financial markets as well.

First off, one gets a glimpse into this world and sees how corrupt it can be at times. The world of insider trading is truly based on the premise of greed, and people are often willing to do very unethical things to attain this goal. In particular, people will betray one another in order to make more money in the financial markets, or they will put the entire livelihoods of their families at stake. This film also shows how the government works with the financial markets and makes corrupt decisions as well. I think this movie truly teaches a person to always be skeptical of the government, no matter how great its intentions may seem in fixing certain economic situations.

Easter - One of My Favorite Times of the Year #HOPParty

2011-03-28T21:29:00.000-04:00

I was just putting in my requests off for the next few months, when I realized that easter was just around the corner. I made sure to quickly request that day off .... Since I work retail, my store is not closed for Easter....And it is slow that day anways, So I dont think they will miss me too much.

I love the holidays.... And easter is one of my favorite holidays. It is a holiday based around religion - Which yes I am Catholic. I do belive in the regious reasons behind Easter! And I try to abide by most of the traiditions that Lent and Easter that I grew up with. That includes no meat on fridays and then silence and prayer between 1:00 and 3:00pm on Good Friday.
We do celebrate using the traditional easter egg hunt and candy giving... But My most favorite thing about easter is being with my family! I work 2 jobs, so spending time a whole day with my husband and son is not something that happens very often. And as an added bonus we spend it with the extended family.

The night or two before Easter Sunday, we make hard boiled eggs... Which... My 4 year old son LOVES. HE so enjoys decorating the eggs, and it is a great way for him to learn his colors - and how to make new colors (Ex: Red and blue make purple.... ) Also, with the crayons that you use to write on eggs with... He can learn how to spell things like Mommy and Daddy and his name! After they are all decorated they go in the fridge for easter morning.

Since we have 3 cats, and 2 dogs, we do not leave the eggs out overnight. Last year we "hid" just a couple of Real eggs and a couple of the plastic eggs for Lil C to find. This way the animals wouldnt break the real ones (nor would they hide it) Lil C had so much fun finding them... that I look forward to finding new and creative places to hide them.

After we find the eggs and eat breakfast, We have a few hours of relax time... before having to get ready for my Grandma's house. This has to be one of my favorite parts of the day. At my grandma's I get to see almost all my aunts and uncles....and Lil C gets to see all his cousins... So he has someone to play with! We have Delicious Dinner that EVERYONE helps make. Ever family brings part of the meal or desert for dinner - and Grandma makes the Main meat (usually a ham or a roast) and everyone Picks... It is always better right off of the hot pan. After visiting time with my family, we then usually head over to my husbands family for the same thing - More dinner and family visiting. Then a long drive home!

What is your favorite part of Easter?

I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Hop blogging program, for a gift card worth $25. For more information on how you can participate, click here

Something Borrowed - Relationship Questions.

2011-03-25T20:39:00.000-04:00

All relationships begin somewhere... Usually they begin with a friendship and progress from there. Something Borrowed is a great upcoming movie for realtionships. In the movie Something Borrowed, Rachel and Darcy’s lifelong friendship collides with true love, when perpetual good girl Rachel unexpectedly ends up in bed with the guy she’s had a crush on since law school, Dex…who just happens to be Darcy’s fiancé! This leads to unexpected complications and potentially explosive romantic revelations in all of their relationships...

I have been married for 5 years now... and when you think you have things figured out... life throws you a curveball. It never seems to fail... I have learned that relationships are not a one sided thing. They are suppose to be two sided.. Communication is key... But what happens when that 2 person relationship starts to turn into a one sided effort. What happens when there is no communcation? Or broken communication.
How do you fix it when it has seemed to have gotten to the point of no repair?

I have come across many different obsticles - and it seems that they all revolve around communication skills. When my husband and I were going through marriage consuling, the one thing that was always stressed was keeping an open line of communication... And not to go to bed angry... It sounds so easy in theory, but when it comes to practice.... It wasnt as easy.

If you could give your best piece of advice to a couple what would it be? Whether it is for a guy and girl going on their first date... or a newly engaged couple... Or even someone who has just gotten married and are starting out their new life as husband and wife. And knowing that we all have questions about relationships... What question would you like to have answered?

Lets get fit - Swimsuit time is coming

2011-03-23T17:00:00.001-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Express for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

This past month I have been doing my best to try to loose weight and tone my shape - so I can wear great swimwear -like the ones from Express. Express has women's swimwear to fit every body type. . I love when a company has a great tagline. The one that they stand behind is "Dive into the season's sexiest swimwear" and that is what I plan on doing! Express has a great line of swimwear. They have suits for every body type. I personally love two piece swimwear. That way I can get the correct size for each piece to fit my body style. One of my favorite swimsuits on the market this year is the one shown below.

I love this design. I love the colors and the shape.... And I am hoping that by the end of the spring I will have the perfect body shape to fit this suit! Actually printing out the swim suits of my choice is a good form of motivation for my weight loss goal

Some of the great features about Express:
* Available in always-popular monokini, sexiest string bikini and must-have strapless and halter bikini styles

*Shop Bright solids, on trend graphic prints, the essential reversible style, nautica-inspired striped and sleek metallic styles.

* Designer details include flirty ruffles, sexy self-tie sides, glam beaded embellishments and polished metal hardware

* Removable padding in tops

*Bottoms fit smaller to size for moderate back coverage

What is your favorite style? Also don't for get to take a moment to sign up for the Express e-mail. With entering for the email you are entered to win one of 10 - $200.00 Express Giftcards! Take a moment to look over the sweepstakes rules

What is your favorite Swim Suit? Are you a 1 piece, a bikinis or a string bikini person? Don't worry men, they didn't forget about you. They also do have swim shorts available for me!

To all my mommies to be out there...

2011-03-17T10:01:00.001-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of CryoCell International for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

When I was pregnant... I learned very little about Cord Blood banking.... It was mentioned once at a doctors appointment... and that was that... I got a little brochure at the visit along with some magazines.... I read the magazines but never looked into Cord Blood Banking. I just saw the dollar amount that one company was saying - and had total sticker shock! That was something that I could not get past. Well, over the past 4 years, I have head more and more advertised about Cord Blood Banking... So I figured it would be something worth Looking into.

There's a lot of great sites out there that have to deal with cord blood - one great site is www.Cryo-Cell.com. I took a few moment to check it out. It has a lot of great information about Cord Blood Banking, Like reasons that it is important to look into.
Are you going to be a mom soon? Well, if you are, you can always go to www.Cryo-Cell.net to request more information. Also with this request you can get a a Free Belly Bag! How cool is that?
If you or someone you know is going to be a parent - defiantly make sure to at least consider Cord Blood Banking.

10 tips and tricks for #GreatGetaways

2011-03-08T17:08:00.000-05:00

I don't get to travel very often but when I do, I make sure to get all the great deals possible. You know that traveling as a family can be hard - especially when you have 1 or more children... I remember the last trip that I took family vacation ... It was a couple years ago... and Lil C was just under the age of passengers being charged (children under 2 flew free)... So... we took advantage ...and went and saw family down south.
There are a lot of ways to save money when traveling. Here are some helpful tips I have learned.

1. Plan in advance. Unless It is a last minute emergency that you have to travel somewhere.. I try to plan a trip at least 6 months in advance. (usually more) This way I can keep my eyes open for the best deals possible when it comes to traveling.

2. Decide if you are going to drive or fly. If It is a long distance... Take into consideration your mental health vs. the dollar amount. I know Driving to Florida from my home is about 20-24 hours ... That long in a car with a 4 year old... Sanity may be lost... This is when I may take into consideration flying and then renting a car.

3. Keep your eyes open for special events that may be going on in the area you are traveling to. There may be some great plays or shows that sound fun...and If you reserve your tickets early enough - or have a large enough group, you may be able to get them cheaper.

4. Check Craigs list for different side events that may be going on. I know I love to shop - and in MI, we have mom 2 mom sales... but when I traveled to Georgia, they had no clue what I was talking about. If you are going for a concert or other event - check eBay. Sometimes you can get some tickets really cheap...

5. Check different hotel prices in the area. Compare how close they are to your destination and what you pay vs. the features a room has. You really dont need a fancy room - becuase... Hopefully you wont be spending your whole trip in it.

6. If you know you are planning on eating out, check online for restaurants in the area you will be traveling to. That way you can always sign up with their email services... Some restaurants offer you savings on their meals when you become an email member.

7. With planning early, you can also do some clearance shopping. I know when I went to Georgia Last, I didn't have a swim suit that fit me (because I was still carrying around baby weight).. I was able to shop the clearance racks ...for summer swimwear...since it was end of Season in Michigan. This saved me a little money - that I could use towards the trip itself.

8. If you have children -some of the most fun things i have found to do on vacation was going to the different states' Zoo. Save yourself a TON of money by packing your own lunch and drinks. They charge an arm and a leg for food and drinks at tourist attractions!

9. Instead of buying a ton of souvenirs, take TONS of pictures. Most people have a digital camera that they use all the time, Why not bring that with you and take pictures .. stand by attraction signs... so you can pinpoint where you were on that particular day. Then when the trip is over you can put together your own photo album to remember your trip by...

10. If you have signed up with any reward points - or airline perks... this would be a great time to cash some of them out. Unfortunatly I don't belong to any airline rewards anymore! Shucks.

I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Alamo blogging program, for a gift card worth $25. For more information on how you can participate, click here.

Winter - Dry Skin, Chaffing and Rahses! Bordeaux to the Rescue!

2011-02-15T10:01:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Boudreaux's Butt Paste. All opinions are 100% mine.

Has your child ever had a great case of Diaper Rash? And you've tried everything you could think of to cure it, but none of the norms worked? Then you probably haven't tried Boudreaux's Butt Paste. Bourdeaux's Butt Paste has been specifically formulated by a pharmacist with direction from a respected pediatrician to provide effective diaper rash care.

I remember the first time that I heard of Boudreaux's Butt Paste. It was at my co-workers Baby Shower. Boy did he get a laugh out of it. And so did a couple of the non-mothers. Hey sometimes, the items with the craziest names have the best uses!

I have some great facts about this product.
1. Goes on Easily and it is easy to clean off
2. It is available in Convenient sizes - such as: 1oz, 2oz, 3oz and 4oz tubes, & 16oz jars
3. This comes with a Flip top cap (for the tubes)
4. They offer the Handy Travel Size
5. It doesn't have a harsh smell - rather it is quite pleasant.
6. It is a great skin protectant

Boudreaux's Butt Paste has been featured on many shows - such as: Oprah Show, Tonight Show, The Today Show, While you were out. And on TV Stations such as ESPN and magazines such as People magazine.

If you want to try a free sample of this product, visit the Boudreaux's Butt Paste website.

Celebrate Valentines Day with Eden Fantasys

2011-02-06T01:05:00.003-05:00

Valentines Days is Just over a week away!! I know I have been keeping my eyes open to see if there is anything that I really like or want... And my favorite site to check out is EdenFantasys. EdenFantasys is an Adult Online Store. They carry everything from Lingerie, to toys, to jewelry and even Lotions and Candles. I love the Lingerie that they offer... and I also love their massage tools. You want to wow your girl this valentines day? Then I will suggest you get some Bubble Bath, Sexy Lingerie, and the Kneed Me Massage Set. That combination will defiantly equal a good night!

Right now they are running their 14 Days of Love - Daily Specials. So far they have had sales on Lingerie, Books, Chocolate Paint and even toys! And today (February 6th) there is a sale on their Rabbits! Check them out today so you can spoil someone on Valentines Day!

*In exchange for this post I will receive a gift card for Eden Fantasys

TOBASCO Origional Red

2011-02-05T19:01:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of TABASCO® Original Red. All opinions are 100% mine.

If you are anything like my husband, you like having a little Kick to your food. I have seen him add TABASCO® Original Red to many different foods - such as Pizza. Or if your are like my coworker... You add it to EVERYTHING - including chicken, and pizza, and I really wouldn't be surprised if he adds it to Salad! He loves his Tabasco Sauce.

A little about TABASCO® Original Red: The original Red was the first sauce introduced by the McIlhenny family - in 1868. This sauce has continued to be one of their most popular sauces out of their 6 flavors. Also, They are not all about just being a HOT Sauce. They love what Heat does to add flavor to your food. How does it enhance the flavor? Tabasco Original Red is a very simple combination of red pepper, salt and vinegar that are perfected in a 3 year aging process.

What better way to enhance your Game Day meals? How about adding Tobasco Original Red to your Game Day Recipes? IF you want some suggestions of what to make for this Sundays Game day - you really need to check out the Game-Day Party Menu. My favorite menu item has to be the Pizza. Or the Chili - especially on these cold winter days. Do you want to know how to make your own perfect Pizza? Make sure to check out the Pizza Perfected page on the Tobasco Website.

How do you use Tobasco Original Red?

Ten Financial Tips for Women Seriously Considering Divorce - Hollis Colquhoun

2011-02-02T23:04:00.000-05:00

Ten Financial Tips for Women Seriously Considering Divorce
By Hollis Colquhoun

1. Get informed. In order to have an idea of where you stand financially after divorce you need to figure out your financial status as a married couple. Gather all of the documents pertaining to your assets and liabilities. Each current account statement, whether it's reporting the mortgage balance, credit card balance, Individual Retirement Account value, student loan, etc. will give you a piece of the puzzle of your marital worth, the assets and liabilities you and your husband share, what you each have individually and what the balances are.

2. Create a balance sheet. This gives a snapshot in time of what you own and owe-your asset and liability values. On the left-hand side of the page list your assets, generally starting with the highest priority ones, like your home and cars. A column on the right side will list your liabilities or debts. If some are directly attached to an asset (secured) like a car loan is attached to the car, put those loans across from the assets they're related to. Unsecured debts such as credit cards aren't attached to any particular property but you still have a general obligation to pay them. Label each asset and liability as being either joint or individual. Be sure to include retirement accounts and check for any loans taken out against them. Also, don't forget to list valuables under assets, such as antiques and jewelry.

3. Look at your joint IRS tax returns for the past 3 years. These returns will report your annual marital income, whether it came from a salary, bonuses, bond interest or stock dividends, and property or partnership income. The reports will also give a clearer picture of tax-deferred accounts such as a 401k or pension retirement account, by showing the income deduction taken for retirement contributions. If you use an accountant to prepare your returns, make an appointment to review your latest returns. Sometimes they can be hard to decipher.

4. Understand the household income. What was your annual joint income for the past three years and what did you earn? Was the income steady, on a monthly basis or quarterly, or did it come in one chunk at the end the year? Once you have a clearer picture of the household's income flow it will be easier to understand and split.

5. Calculate your worth as a stay-at-home mom. Just because you don't earn outside income, doesn't mean you don't bring added value to the household budget. List of every activity you do that saves the household money, e.g. grocery shop, cook, transport children, do laundry, clean the house, care for an elderly parent. On a column alongside these activities, calculate what it would cost to hire someone outside of the family to do each task, then add up the dollar total. Since this would be an after-tax number, figure out what that would equate to in annual pre-tax income. Are your savings efforts worth the equivalent of a $30,000 or $40,000 income contribution?

6. Make a list of your family’s current monthly household expenses. Construct a monthly budget and don’t forget to pro-rate monthly the expenses that might only come every 6 months or year, like insurance. If something happens to your marriage, chances are you’ll be the caregiver for the children so it’s very important to have a realistic idea of what the basic household expenses have been and might be monthly and yearly.

7. Hire good professionals. Regardless of your financial situation you should speak to several legal and financial professionals to get the best guidance through the divorce process. Pick the lawyer who will act as your advocate and a financial adviser who will focus on your financial needs and goals. Don’t use the same financial professional that your husband uses for the sake of convenience! There are free resources for help at LawHelp.org and Nolo.com. (Note, during the interview process, if you speak to a lawyer about your situation, that lawyer is precluded from representing your spouse.)

8. Split assets and liabilities by amount and type. In many cases women try to keep the marital house for the sake of the children, but that might not be the best solution for their financial stability. Often the house is the biggest marital asset but it doesn’t produce any income and doesn’t necessarily add to your financial nest egg. If the divorce agreement has the house and mortgage going to the you and the other assets and liabilities like the credit card debt, IRA and securities account going to your husband, then the only income you will have is alimony and child support. In some cases it’s better to sell the house and other jointly held property then divide the assets and debts evenly by amount and type (liquid and illiquid). Then you can rent or buy a house that you can afford and have liquid assets that can be used for income or emergency funds in case the alimony or child support payments suddenly disappear.

9. Create a mock budget. Do some homework regarding your various living options, then list anticipated monthly expenses. See how the numbers work out and what monthly alimony and child support you’ll need. If you have to go back to work to make ends meet and had a prior career or job position, ask for rehabilitative alimony where additional money is paid to you in the early part of the settlement agreement for education and retraining purposes.

10. Have the account titles changed. For those assets and debts you are going to transfer to the other person or change from joint to individual, amend the account and title before the divorce is final, that way you aren’t relying on your ex-spouse to make payments on a debt that is still classified by the creditors as joint. If he stops paying you will still be liable. Just having a settlement agreement doesn’t mean the creditors will automatically shift the liability. For them it’s better to have two people on the hook for the debt payments.

This list seems like a lot to handle, but it’s not if you take one step at a time. Your financial health is directly tied to your mental and physical health, and is just as important. Realize you’re worth it and that your financial future is at stake.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Author and financial self-defense expert Hollis Colquhoun knows firsthand the struggles women go through in divorce. An Accredited Financial Counselor who worked 20 years on Wall Street, she persevered through a difficult divorce and major surgeries to raise a family and achieve financial independence. Hollis counsels women from the difficult early stages of divorce, when they need sound financial advice to navigate feelings of anger, loss and betrayal and build a new future. Her book, Women Empowering Themselves: A Financial Survival Guide, is a concise, pocket-book manual to help women take charge of their finances. Hollis, who holds black belts in Karate and Taekwondo, uses martial arts principles to teach women to protect themselves financially.

My Ideal Getaway - Summer Plans

2011-01-26T15:18:00.002-05:00

Even though it is only the beginning of the year... Well, mid January to be exact... I have been thinking of what I would love to do this summer. I have been itching for a family vacation, but Have not been able to take one. So I am trying to decide what I would like to do.

Right now, finances are tight, so I know I cant take my son to Disney Land and all the great American attractions.... But he's only 4...So i don't think he realizes that he is missing out on anything yet. But I want to make the most of my vacation. I would love to take at least 2 weeks off of work, pack us up in the car and go driving. But, Where would I go...

First I would start off in Michigan - my home town and take a day and drive down to Ohio. I have made many friends since i have started Blogging... And I think this would be a great time to meet them. The one person I would definitely have to go visit is my Best Blogging Buddy Rebecca (you would have seen her over at Bzzing Mom). She has an adorable little daughter that I just want to meet. And Rebecca is a Completely Great friend! I would have never guessed her age from the level of maturity she shows in her blogging and just from everyday casual conversation. Since I haven't been to Ohio (except to go to Cedar point) I have no idea what there is to do. I'm sure we can find something - and if none the less, just chill and soak up the fresh air.

From there I think I will take a drive from Ohio to Connecticut to visit one of my other blogger friends.... You may know her as Queen B from This Mama Loves Her Bargains. She has 3 ADORABLE Children... And I know - just from talking to her... that she is a BALL to hang around. She is very smart witted and a great writer! With her help, I know I have grown as a writer and also as a person, and I look forward to meeting her and her family!

From there.. I may just have to take a drive down to Georgia. I have a lot of family down there - who I miss. I have not been able to see them in a couple years -because of work schedules and everything. I am really am looking forward to meeting my newest cousin Blake.

From there... I will have to come back to Michigan. It is going to be a great time. I don't have any big plans on visiting all the Tourist Attractions...Or going as many places as I can in the short time I will be able to get off... My great vacation will be Relaxing and laid back. If we get to do everything, then fine... If we have to pass on something...then that is okay with me also. I am just looking forward to having time off - and spending the time with my son.

This just my idea of how I want to spend my summer. Ill keep you posted through the summer if anything has gone the way I plan!

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Alamo blogging program, for a gift card worth $50. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

SuperCuts - Own your Own Franchise

2011-01-25T17:51:00.001-05:00

Are you looking for a new source of income? How about going into the Hair Care Field? SuperCuts is offering a time-tested opportunity in the Hair Care industry for Professionals Interested in Business Ownership. Why choose SuperCuts? They are Ranked #1 in Hair Care Franchises.

What Makes Hair Care so Lucrative?

Is fundamental service in any community and any economic climate.
Most people choose not to ‘do it themselves’
Resists technological obsolescence
Is staffed by professionals – employees are educated, certified and trained
Has low, non-perishable inventory requirements.
Cannot be outsourced
Is about making people look and feel good about themselves.

Are you interested in learning more about the SuperCuts Franchiese. To become a Franchisee, you must have the following qualifications:

$150K net worth minimum
Some business experience
Willing to open a Minimum of 3 Units

Have questions about opening a Supercuts franchise or want to learn tips from current business owners? Visit http://www.supercutsfranchise.com/

If you are not wanting to become a Franchise Owner, how about becoming a Hair Stylist?

You can find SuperCuts on Facebook and on Twitter.

*I was not financially compensated for this post.

A Little Help this Winter with NMEDA

2011-01-22T10:00:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of NMEDA. All opinions are 100% mine.

inter Seasons can be rough for family with adults or children who are disabled. Especially if they don’t have the proper vehicle. Not every person with a disability is the same. Each person has their own needs. Those “Wheelchair Adapted” vehicles sold over the Internet may not always work for your situation – like they say they will. ” NMEDA has a solution for that. If you haven’t heard of NMEDA, it is a non-profit trade association who educate consumers on buying products from a NMEDA qualified dealer. To find a dealer in your area you can go to the NMEDA Website.

NMEDA offers a personalize “in-person” evaluation. This way you can be sure sure that you are receiving the right vehicle customized to your specific lifestyle and needs. Also, if you need any addition training or product information, your NMEDA is there to help

Not only does NMEDA have dealers for their vehicles, they also have Quality Assurance Program dealers.
“The Quality Assurance Program (QAP) is the only nationally recognized accreditation program for the Adaptive Mobility Equipment Industry. It is based on the principle that in order to satisfy customers consistently, companies must have a systematic and documented approach to quality. ”

With NMEDA, You don’t have to worry about your information being sold – they do not sell anything.

Check out NMEDA and let me know if you have a dealer near you.

I Got You Babe – Valentines with EdanFantasys

2011-01-13T16:35:00.000-05:00

With Valentines Day not too far around the corner... okay, well about a month away... I just thought I would tell you about this great little website! PSSST... all of you men reading this... HINT HINT!!! GOOD STUFF for your lady! So, as I was saying there's this great little website that I found... EdenFantasys. Yes you read that right! I know what you're thinking.... Oh, its just another adult web store... But it is so much more! They do carry the traditional Toys, but Did you know that they have other great things like Massage Oils and Lotions and Aroma Therapy Candles. These are perfect items to set the mood for a great Valentines Day!!! I love all the options that EdenFantasys Carries and I know you will too!

Holiday Stocking Stuffer Ideas - Tom's of Maine

2010-12-24T18:00:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Toms of Maine. All opinions are 100% mine.

Tom's of Maine is well known for a lot of their products. They have soaps, Natural body bars, and also Toothpaste and mouth wash. They are a natural based product. Right now with the Holidays, everyone is looking for ideas for stocking stuffers... Well here is a last minute idea for you.

Tom's Of Maine Mouthwash. Tom's of Maine's great tasting Wicked Fresh! Mouthwash helps stop bad breath without the burn. Our refreshing mint flavors leave your whole mouth feeling clean from a brand you trust and never tested on animals. There are 3 different mouthwashes for your family to try.

Tom's Of MaineToothpaste. This toothpaste is a long lasting paste that helps give your mouth the cavity protection that your mouth needs. It gives you fresh breath by using Natural flavor oils and a patent-pending botanical extract. There are 14 different styles of Toms of Maine Toothpaste. So I'm sure that theres one for you

Also Tom's of Maine has a contest going on. Visit theTom's Of Maine That's Wicked Fresh contest page to share some of your wicked Fresh Moments. What are some of your wicked fresh moments? I would love to hear them! Toms of Maine can be found on Facebook - or follow them on Twitter @Toms of Maine. Keep an eye on their pages. They are bound to have some WICKED FRESH things.

Jingle around the Clock with EdenFantasys Adult Store

2010-12-16T16:49:00.000-05:00

If you have never shopped online for any Adult Toy or Intimate apparel, You should really check out EdenFantasys. They are an online Adult Toy Store - that carries Way more things than just toys. They carry everything from lingerie to male and female toys - to lotions and candles.

I had the pleasure to review one of their Massagers. EdenFantasys Sent me the Countour I & Beyond Euphoric set. I know personally I love a good back massage. Who doesn't... And when this good back massage can lead into other things... well, there you go! The Countour I is a 5 1/2" Ceramic Massage Stone. It has 2 Knobed ends, to help get all the kinks and knots out. It also comes complete with the Beyond Euphoric Massage Cream. They also send you a little users guide on the stone - and it gives you different tips and tricks on how to use all the sides of this Contour I to ones advantage. Now, my only task is getting my hubby to massage my back on a more frequent level!

* I received the Contour I for Review purposes only.