It's a woman's world!

An Egyptian excavation

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 02:01:00 +0000

Although I have a very small budget for my three youngest children to participate in extracurricular activities and purchase all the latest gadgets and learning materials, I still make a concerted effort to incorporate a wide variety of experiences into their daily lives. We enjoy watching Animal Planet together and learning little-known facts about wildlife and we spend a lot of time watching PBS, reading books, researching topics on the Internet and anything else I can think of.

I always look for cost-effective and interesting ways to keep this going. My son receives Lego and Boy Scout magazines in the mail as well as a National Geographic (I think that’s the one) magazine about animals. My youngest daughter, 4, gets National Geographic’s little kids Discovery books that feature a different animal each month along with hand/eye coordination activities, information/fact cards about other animals and learning games. One of the things I really enjoy with the children is the Little Passports packet that my middle daughter Amareah receives.

When Amareah was about 4 years old (she’s 7 now) she showed interest in other countries and cultures. It started with International Day at head start when they learned about China. It was something about the Chinese culture that stuck with her. About a year later when we went to a Disney on Ice show Mickey and Minnie skated out and perched under a cherry blossom tree with their kimonos on while Minnie twirled a parasol, and Amareah pointed and said to me, “That’s from China.”

That’s why when I learned about Little Passports, I just had to order it for her. It’s a global adventure for kids that includes monthly packages containing stickers, letters, souvenirs, photos and much more. The first package came with a travel suitcase, an introductory letter from Sam and Sofia, a world map, travel passport, stickers, activity sheet and access to online games via the boarding passes (which, by the way, I keep forgetting about).

I’ve put Amareah’s map on the wall in her room and every time she receives a package we take the enclosed sticker push pin and place it on the map. Then we review the other places she’s “visited.” I’d also like to be able to add real push pins for states she’s actually travelled to.

Her most recent package was about Egypt and I think Amareah had the most fun with it. There was a clay pyramid that contained a little pharaoh, which had to be excavated using little tools. Before they began chipping away at it I read the letter to Amareah and her sister explaining different details as I read.

They were excited to begin:

It took the girls at least 20 minutes to see the little metal piece peeking through.

More than an hour later they were finally making progress. They were so tired from chipping away at it that they were laying their heads on their arms. I tried to get them to take a break, but they refused and continued with their mission from their prone positions!

They got this far and couldn’t get the piece out so the excavation leader (i.e., me – super mom!) came to the rescue.

One of the things I liked – and didn’t like – about this project was the amount of dust. I was sitting nearby and I could feel the dust going up my nose and covering my skin. The girls were so dusty that it looked like they had actually been in the dessert. I explained to them that what they did was very similar to what actually happens when archeologists are exploring ruins, etc.

The excavation team:

I am very pleased with Amareah’s monthly packages and the information she is learning about different countries and cultures. It’s also good that her siblings – and myself! – benefit from it as well. Do you have something you do to open up the world to your kids? Or something that explores their interests? Please tell me about it in the comments.

Disclosure: This IS NOT a paid post or a sponsored review. I purchased a Little Passports’ subscription for my daughter and thought you’d like to read about it. You can review my complete disclosure policy.

Autism supplements

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:30:00 +0000

Many people believe that Autism can be cured and/or greatly assisted by changes in diet, nutritional supplements and, overall, more natural remedies. Now there are physician designed and approved supplements for autism available to the public and they are touted as safe and effective.

The available Autism supplements are formulated to help counter the adverse effects of poor eating habits and other nutritional challenges related to autism. And these prove very effective for autistic children who are very selective about what they consume.

If you are looking for vitamins that are tested and approved by medical professionals then it behooves you to take a good look at these supplements.

What’s the problem? (Co-)Parenting, health

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:02:00 +0000

This post is part vent, part update and part health ~~and~~ ~~weight loss~~ journal. Please be patient with my vent. Thanks for reading.

In the middle of thinking about how I was going to vent this without going on a tangent for 500 words, I came to the conclusion that I don’t have to recant the story I just have to get my point across. So here’s my point:

As a single parent of four children I work really hard to make sure they're well cared for, have everything they need including food, clothing, etc., and are happy. When someone implies that I am not doing it I take it as a personal attack and the words echo through my head like the voice of a pestering ghost.

I tried talking to my ex-husband about the way my 7-year-old daughter wants to wear her hair. It was basically just a courtesy because the fact is I don’t need his permission to allow her to choose dreadlocks. Instead of staying on topic he said ‘there’s no reason the children should have holes in their shoes, be messy or stink.’ That was in response to me telling him that my daughter – and he doesn’t know both of them have – expressed concern about how their hair looks when they come from his house and go to school on Monday mornings. The two Mondays out of the month that he has them.

The hair situation- not to mention their extreme exhaustion - is so bad that my youngest daughter’s teacher comments on it every other Monday like clockwork. She says she can tell when they were with him by the way my daughter is dressed, how her hair looks and how tired she is.

So my response to him was ‘are you comparing how they look after coming from school, going to the afterschool program and playing all afternoon as opposed to how they look in the morning.’ In the past I always sent the children in play clothes and shoes, especially during the summer, because he would either not send the items back, he would allow them to tear them up or they would disappear. A small hole in a worn-out play shoe is not cause for concern, alarm or criticism.

My two middle children are pre-adolescent and their body odors are changing. When they come in from playing I send them right to the bath because they smell like outdoors and sweat. And it’s getting worse. So what? No big deal.

Instead of keeping on topic about my daughter’s hair, which is ultimately my decision anyway he had to start pointing fingers with inadequate information and incorrect assumptions. Since we’re making a list you know I have a list of my own, right? But I do not say anything about it because no one is perfect and no one knows the entire story. I don’t put out his inconsistencies, lack of attention to detail, lazy parenting, jacked up way of keeping their hair (all of them!) or anything else. I may vent to my friends or roll my eyes in disgust.

This time I only brought up the conversation because my daughter asked me to. But, once again, talking to him proved useless. I cant discuss anything with him because it ALWAYS (Yes, gigantic generalization) ends up being a waste of my time and energy.

That was a long point, wasn’t it?

Given my health issues (yea, I’m moving on to my health update), an unnecessary argument and the lack of resolution for what the conversation is really about is draining. Yesterday, when this happened I was so exhausted. I’m planning my daughter’s 7th birthday celebration, I had a veeeeeryyyy long doctor’s appointment yesterday, two of the children have honors programs this week on different days and all of this on top of everything else that is required to maintain a household and family.

So much for trying to stay stress free – doctor’s orders.

Overall, my doctor’s appointment – with the hematology clinic – went well. I believe I mentioned that I had an excruciating headache(s) for more than a week. It began with a migraine on the left side of my head and radiated across my forehead and into my temples. It came along with nausea, weakness and additional aches and pains. My PA said it’s probably due to my Sjogren’s, which causes extreme dryness and it can effect my sinuses resulting in headaches. But, she added, it’s difficult to tell because there are so many things going on in my body. Between medication side affects and illness symptoms… well, you get the point.

The multiple myeloma is stable and I do not have to do anything additional or go through any treatment as of yet. I need to take my iron and other supplements on a regular basis because of anemia and deficiencies, which can result when something is attacking your system. I had an extremely difficult time taking meds while sick with headaches. She also gave me a plan as far as headaches to try nip headaches in the bud quickly as well as getting sinus films and migraine prescription through my primary team (I really don’t like that team!).

Health wise I am so so so so so sooooooo happy that the headaches have mostly subsided. (Did you notice I didn’t talk about my weight? Ugh, we’ll just leave that for another time.)

Well, now that you’re all caught up, what’s new with you? :-)

Get a fresh, new web design

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 04:59:00 +0000

It seems like a lot of bloggers have decided to revamp their blogs’ designs or content… must be a New Year’s trend. I’m actually going to do the same thing. How many are doing the same thing? Are you using a designer who works especially with blogs or a specialized company like utah web design?

When your child notices the world

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 18:37:00 +0000

When you have an infant you’re amazed at their growth and progress. You marvel at how they will follow a bright object or get startled by a new sound. You laugh when they giggle and they giggle ‘cause you laughed. The world opens up all over again when you have a child.

As they grow your toddler will find a bug you’ve never seen or show you something at ground level you’ve forgotten, your pre-schooler excites you when they learn something new and going to school opens up and entirely bright, new, exciting existence.

It’s when their little brains start to process information, notice other things in the world besides themselves and then put it all together that life gets extremely interesting. When that processing starts (and in all stages of it) children turn to us – their parents – to fill in the blanks.

When my oldest child, now 20, was a little girl I remember her asking me a lot of questions. Now I wish I had written down all of the answers because I had no idea I would have to provide the answers to the same questions… and many, many more.

For instance, today my son said to me that he thought his three cousins having three different fathers was “weird.” “Why is that weird,” I said, “you probably know other people like that.”

He pondered that for a moment because it just didn’t make sense. I said, “Well, you and your siblings have all different mothers.”

The arch in his eyebrow and his unwavering gaze asked for more. I explained how is older brother, he and his two sisters as well as his younger brother have three different mothers. He thought about it a moment then asked something like “how does that happen.”

“Your dad was with* three different mommies.” (*I sure did stumble over that phrase. I couldn’t decide between “was with,” “had” and “knew.” LOL)

“He was married to all three?”

No, yes and I don’t know, is he? Was my answer. (BTW: He is married to the last one’s mother, but I guess I’m not supposed to know.)

“Well, what was he and [my big brother’s] mom?”

“Girlfriend and boyfriend, I guess.”

“You can’t stay together if you’re girlfriend and boyfriend?”

“Well, you can, but sometimes it just doesn’t work out. That’s why it’s normally best not to have any children unless you’re married ‘cause it gets complicated.”

“What’s complicated?”

“Difficult… hard… sometimes it can be hard, can’t it?”

My son nodded yes and put his head back down to continue his homework.

That’s right up with the time he asked me why I didn’t have anymore milk for babies and why I don’t want anymore babies. Or the other day when he asked if I was getting old ‘cause I’d been really sick and was having trouble moving around and talking. Then there was the time he and his sisters asked why their big sister doesn’t have the same last name as they do; following it up with a “why?” – of course.

If my brain wasn’t so tired I probably could come up with many more instances (most of which have happened recently!), but I think you get my point. As parents we really do have to be on our A game all the time ‘cause you never know when you’re going to be called to play.

What is the most difficult and embarrassing question your child(ren) has asked recently? Do you find it hard or uncomfortable to discuss the more serious topics?

I always try to give my children age-appropriate and factual information regardless of whether it’s uncomfortable or embarrassing for me. There isn’t anyway I can redo the past or keep them from growing up so they can hopefully learn from my experiences as well as the answers I give them.

Now, go out and notice the world with them.

It rained on my high expectations

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 06:59:00 +0000

I began writing this post about three or four days ago, I don’t really remember. It explains why I haven’t been around here over the past eight days or so.

There have been quite a few articles and posts written about how everyone is doing with their New Year resolutions – what I like to call commitments. There are tips on how to stick to your goals by choosing someone to be accountable to, ensuring you put them in writing and other similar advice. What I haven’t seen yet is what to do when your plans and goals are thwarted by elements you can’t control.

Last week, the first week of the year, I was so gung-ho to get started and forge ahead on the steps to accomplish my commitments. On Monday, the 2nd, the children were still home from school so I spent a portion of that time getting organized and looking forward to Tuesday, which for me was the first official day of the year. Tuesday I worked some on my book proposal and a couple of other things I can’t remember and by that end of the day I was attacked with a headache that turned into a migraine. I haven't been good for anything since then because between headaches, body aches, weakness and exhaustion I haven't gotten anything done. That’s been a little more than a week ago and I’m beginning to get a little discouraged.

What’s one to do when sickness, or other things you can’t control, gets in the way? What makes it doubly frustrating for me is the fact when my everyday ailments aren’t flaring up I try to make the best use of my time and get tasks accomplished. My ailments, for the most part, are behaving and I’m wracked with headaches, weakness, dizziness, aches, decreased appetite, tummy aches, stabbing sinus pain and exhaustion so intense that I am dozing while I type this. Exhaustion is there even though I’ve napped everyday, more than once a day, for the past week.

TODAY

A little update on this most recent health snafu: I have been giving some medicine for the headaches, which have not gone away but are kept at bay by the drugs. I am expecting and hoping to find a reason why the headaches started and won’t stop really soon.

Thanks for continuing to come around and check on me. I really appreciate it. You’ll hear from me soon!

If you’re not familiar with my “health story” you can read of an older post that should include some links if you’re interested in digging and reading a little further.

Please don’t wear your pajamas

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 04:44:00 +0000

For the past four years I’ve had at least one child in the head start program. When the current school year started in August the county head start program opened at a new location and combined a couple of the locations. One of the things I noticed right away was the number of parents wearing pajamas as they dropped their kids off at school.

Taking a child to head start is not the same as dropping them of at school. We can’t just drive up to the front of the building and let the children out, we have to park, walk inside, sign them in and then leave. Normally, I’m dressed casually in low heels, shorts, jeans, tanks, shirts as well as the occasional pair of slacks and three-inch heeled clogs. And, on more than one occasion, I have felt overdressed.

I’ve seen parents dropping their children off in complete pajama wear – from the tank or t-shirt to the pants and slippers. Don’t even mention slippers ‘cause that seems to be the footwear of choice around these parts. I’ll never understand that. I have had full view of panties because of the thinness of pajama pants, I’ve seen the underside of pregnant bellies, I’ve been a bit horrified by the big-tittied women with NO bra and the woman who wears a shower cap (maybe she thinks it’s a sleep bonnet). There are all banner of scarves (and not the stylish, keep-you-warm kind) and what not that make me just shake my head.

What puts the icing on the cake, in my opinion, is the memo that went out to parents yesterday afternoon. The subject: “Special Concerns: Parent Dress Code.”

Here is what it said, “… Program strives to uphold professional environment at all times. Dress code is one of the areas that we ensure that our staff, parents and volunteers plays a vital role as role models for the children that we serve. Effective January 3, 2012, we will no longer tolerate parents wearing clothing’s such as pajamas, house coats, house shoes etc. to drop-off and pick up their children during school hours. Any parent observed with inappropriate clothing will be asked to leave with the child and can return with proper clothing. …”

(I’m not even going to talk about the grammatical nature of that paragraph. LOL)

I told Anna’s teacher (and the teachers who taught Andre and Amareah in previous years) that I’m not taking that memo. I’m offended. Of course, I was laughing when I said it. I am one of the parents who has never worn “bed clothes” to the school and it’s ridiculous that a memo involving that subject had to go out. As I sit here typing this I recall sending a text message to an old head start parent during one of the meetings telling her about the parent committee secretary who had on slippers one day. During the meeting. And stood to read the minutes.

I’m sure there have been times when my jeans are a little tight, shorts a little too short or a bit too much cleavage is peeking out. Not to mention the days when my hair looks like I was caught in a wind tunnel. But… seriously? Pajamas?

How hard is it to throw on a pair of jeans and slip your feet into some flip flops? Yes, you may be tired, running late or any combination of the above – and most of us understand that – but … well, what else is there to say?

What’s the worse or most inappropriate “outfit” you’ve worn out or seen on someone else? What do you think about the head start director having to distribute a memo on that subject?

Where do you get your tire covers?

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 04:43:00 +0000

Have you ever pulled up behind another vehicle that has a spare tire on the back and seen one of those cute spare tire covers? You know the ones I’m talking about, right? I’ve seen them while out running errands and have wondered where people find covers with popular logos, smiley faces or common phrases. But they seem easy to get when you find a reputable place that has what you’re looking for and 4WD.com is just the site to surf for a vast assortment of Jeep tire covers.

Whether you are looking for a solid, professional or standard wheel cover or one with a fun, playful logo, 4WD.com has you covered. They carry a cover for every dimension of tire including from wheel size 26.5 to 37-inch tires. You will also find covers in a variety of colors including black, tan, charcoal, khaki, gray and spice as well as in the material(denim, vinyl or fabric) that suits your needs and style.

If you’re in the market for tire covers then I’m sure you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for when you visit this site. It’s easy to navigate with categories clearly listed and includes clear photos as well as sufficient descriptions so you know exactly what you’re getting. And, for the layperson like me, you’ll discover that the tire cover is for more than just esthetics; it’s to protect your spare from the elements so that when it is time to use it it will be ready and in prime condition.

The quality of tire covers available is ideal for the diehard “care for your car” enthusiast and the person who just wants their vehicle to look nice. Whatever your reasons you’ll find the ideal tire cover for you.

Is your tire cover plain or colorful to represent your personal style?

What do you think of my book idea?

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 23:00:00 +0000

I’m in the process of reviewing the book “How to write a book proposal” by Michael Larsen. Although I have a couple other books in my personal library on the subject I took on this book because it’s actually something I’m in the process of doing and it doesn’t hurt to read and learn as much as possible about the topic.

One of my commitments (what you may call resolutions) this year is to finish my nonfiction book proposal and a minimum of three chapters of the book. While reading the book I discovered a few ideas to try out and see if 1) I have a good idea and 2) if the suggestions in the book work. So over the course of reading the book and working on the proposal you can expect to hear a lot about what’s going on.

The first idea I’m trying? Test the idea on your network. I figure what better group of people to ask than people who read my stuff anyway. So, here it goes, you’re my first “test subjects.” (Don’t you feel honored?! LOL)

Given my slightly suspicious nature I don’t think I’m going to give you a specific title just yet. My book is a how to guide on establishing and maintaining a strong, healthy relationship with your daughter. The plan to write one specifically geared towards relationships with sons is brewing in the back of my brain.

I came up with the idea years ago when my oldest daughter was about 13 years old, but prior to that age different people would comment on how close we were and that it would change when she became a teenager. I refuse to buy into that. I believe a relationship – any relationship – is what you make it. When I was pregnant with my third child, my normally talkative, momma’s girl started withdrawing. She would go into her room and close her door after school instead of leaving it open like she used to. She was moody, easily rubbed the wrong way and I felt like I had to walk around on eggshells with her.

One day, as I stood outside of her bedroom door feeling apprehensive to open the door, I had an “ah ha” moment: I was feeling scared. Scared! Of my own child. Then I realized the problem. As parents – and as individuals in general – we fear change. A child who is growing into a young adult and trying to find themselves is in the midst of change; what we don’t realize is we have to change with them.

Parenting children doesn’t come with a manual, but it does take trial and error. That day, I made a decision. I cheerily bombarded my daughter everyday after school by asking her questions, listening to her talk, finding out about homework and friends – it was rather exhausting, but… and here’s the important part… whatever she was going through eased up a little and I was right there waiting for my baby.

Sure she had changed, but I changed a little with her as well as kept my own parenting style. When Amber hears me tell other parents about me pushing myself on her she’ll chime in by saying, “Yea, I hated every minute of it, but I’m glad she did it.”

Imagine that! Pushing myself on my daughter worked. I didn’t give her attitude about her piss-poor attitude, I didn’t ask her, “What’s wrong with you!” and I didn’t accuse her, alienate her or show that her loved her any differently.

Does that make me an expert? Well, yea, in a way. You know why? Because it worked and it’ll continue to work with the children I have. Now I can tell other parents how to do it along with input from Amber to make it the perfect how-to guide for mothers and daughters.

So, I have a couple of questions for you:

What do you think of my book idea?
Have you had an experience like this with your children?
Do you have advice or warnings for others?
And, if so, would you like to be featured in my book?

I can’t wait to read your comments. I really look forward to your input and opinions.

Browsergame-World.de

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 19:11:00 +0000

I am always surprised to find out how many people enjoy playing games online, and it never dawned on me that there are gaming sites in different languages. At Browsergame-world.de German-speaking gamers will find Browsergames in German. How cool is that?

Even though I don’t understand German, I checked the site out and found it to be cleanly designed. It also appeared easy to use.

Let me know if you check it out.

Surprising bump cure

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 03:39:00 +0000

There’s one thing that time hasn’t changed too much and that’s the teenagers’ angst about pimples. Fortunately for me I was one of those teenagers who rarely had a pimple and, unfortunately, I’ve had more pimples in the past 10 years than I’ve ever seen in my life. Although to some my “pimples” are not worrisome, I can’t stand to see a lumpy, unattractive bump on my face.

And, without being too gross, I also can’t stand hair bumps. You know the ones that appear in your armpit, the inside of your thigh or within your very private triangular area? To my dismay, over the past six months or so, those inner-thigh bumps have popped in the blink of an eye. Not only are they unsightly, but they can be extremely painful.

Trying to get rid of them is always my first priority. I normally apply a hot compress, massage the area, use rubbing alcohol, press them and anything else I can think of. Yes, I know I should squeeze, but we all know that’s hard not to do.

One day about a month ago I was in the bathroom, opened one of the drawers and saw my Neosporin lip treatment, which I had bought because of an allergic reaction some time ago. I didn’t use it much at the time because I couldn’t tolerate the smell and ended up buying something else. I had thrown the tube in a drawer and forgot about it. There I stood, turning the little tube around in my fingers and considering whether I should dispose of it. I couldn’t do it because I hate being wasteful. I peered into the mirror trying to figure out what I could use it for.

A few minutes later I discovered the dreaded inner-thigh hair bump. The size of that thing was appalling and something had to be done to get rid of it. I bet you can guess what I did. Yup, I applied the Neosporin. I went on and got dressed not thinking twice about the bump, but later that night when I was getting ready for bed I remembered it.

I rubbed my hand down the inside of my thigh and discovered the bump was more than halfway reduced in size. I couldn’t believe it! I contorted my body trying to get a better look and rubbed around to make sure I had my hand in the right spot. It was true, the bump was almost gone. Two more applications later the bump was gone and the discoloration that usually lingered afterward wasn’t there either.

Maybe it was just a fluke, I thought. So, late last week I tried it again. This time a pimple popped up on the side of my face. I applied the lip treatment and, again, the next day it was halfway gone. One more application later – totally gone.

Eventually I’ll do some research on the active ingredients (Allantoin 1.5% and Pramoxine HCI 1%) to see if I can figure out what is doing the trick. That seems like such a small amount of those ingredients to even make a difference so it could be possible that the petrolatum, vitamin E, olive oil, cocoa cutter, cottonseed oil, sodium pyruvate or proplyparaben has something to do with it.

Who knows…. and, right now, who cares! I’m bump free.

I figured I’d share it with you and maybe you can try. Of course, I must say, this is not to be taken as medical advice just my personal, layperson’s opinion about a product I use for something it’s not intended for. Do you use products for something they aren’t intended for? Leave a comment and let me know.

Christmas reflections and fun days

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 19:20:00 +0000

On Christmas Eve, I think I was more excited than the children. I really liked the gifts I had chosen for them and was happy I was able to get several of the things they wanted. Then there was the excitement I felt about the few surprises for my oldest daughter who I have a hard time surprising ‘cause I either let the cat out of the bag or she already knows for whatever reason.

But as I was placing the gifts under the tree I had a moment of trepidation. There weren’t as many gifts as the children had last year – would they be disappointed? I had already explained to them that if they wanted bigger (more expensive) items – like the Wii I got for all of us – then the number of gifts would reduce. I immediately pushed my doubts aside realizing I had done my best and was at least able to get them presents. There are many people who don’t have the ability or resources to purchase gifts. I also remember last year’s Christmas blessings (and even other years) when things were so tight that I wasn’t able to do much on my own and if it hadn’t been for others’ selflessness we wouldn’t have had anything at all.

Although my children are happy with the gifts they received two of them have said they don’t think they received enough for Christmas. When my 8 year old said that I explained to him why it was enough and told him the true meaning of Christmas. Once I finished talking he said, “I think you’re right. We do have enough.” Wow, he got it, I thought.

Now, my 4 year old isn’t quite as convinced and I know it’ll be an ongoing lesson I’ll have to continue to teach my three young children. Not to compare, but it seems as if my oldest daughter picked that lesson up very quickly when she was their age. {Shrug}

Also, on Christmas Day, my brother, sister-in-law, nephew and my best friend – who is Amber’s godfather – came for Christmas dinner. I am normally a little anxious and stressed out about having guests, but I stayed relaxed and expected a nice evening. And it sure was. I love spending time with my family who I don’t get to see very often. Amber rocked the dinner – she is such an excellent cook – and we all raved about her mac and cheese, chicken, cookies, cake, greens, mashed potatoes, dressing and cornbread. I’ll just confess now, I only had one assignment: to make the juice, and do you know that I forgot about it? Amber had to remind me right before everyone came. What can I say? I’ve passed the baton to someone who enjoys cooking and is really good at it. (Yes, she cooks from scratch.)

So it was a relaxing and fun time with family and friends. On Monday the children left in the early afternoon to hang out with their dad and enjoy more holiday fun. That left Amber and I to relax on the couch and besides one brief outing that’s where we stayed. We watched movies, played Wii (great exercise!), talked, etc. I really love hanging out with her.

The children returned home early yesterday, but there was much of the same…. chilling, very little work, throwing in a load of laundry and watching movies. Spending the children’s Christmas vacation just playing and relaxing is a great change of pace. In addition to our regular family stuff, we saw Phineas and Ferb Live, went to my nephew’s graduation and enjoyed eating at Ruby Tuesday’s thanks to a gift card from my mom.

They even spent four days at their sister’s apartment. She took them to the park, let them play outside, made cookies and whatever else big sisters do with their siblings.

Spending time like this, and knowing the children are having fun, makes one realize it’s the little things that can facilitate happiness. For me, I love spending time reading alone (in quiet!), playing games with the kids (can be hectic and annoying!) and chilling. Are there are things I’d like to do: probably. But I’m going happy with what I’ve been able to do. What about you?

What did you like best about this holiday season? Tell me your thoughts, your ups, your downs and even your in betweens. Happy Holidays.

Gray fascination

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 18:34:00 +0000

It’s an ongoing topic, I know, but I just can’t stop talking about my hair. I’m either having a love/hate relationship with it, changing my hairstyle, growing it out, braiding it up or any and everything in between.

This time I’m amazed by my gray hairs. They have grown quite a bit since I told you about them before and I think they’re so cool. Now, haters (LOL!), if you have more gray hair than I do don’t leave naughty, little comments of disdained ‘cause your hair is sprinkled with more salt than pepper. I am really chuckling now. Just let me enjoy my moment of fascination.

I’ve had the same gray hairs with the same length for quite some time and over the past few months I’ve watched them grow. I don’t mind if they show a little in the front when I style my hair, although I’m not sure how long I’ll feel like that.

You can see about six hairs here and there is another one that sprouts from the center/top of my head. It wouldn’t show itself when I was taking pictures – it must be shy – but it’s there somewhere. I’m not sure about the back; my oldest daughter said she thinks there’s a small one back there somewhere.

I think they’re looking well; don’t you? I think so because my younger children haven’t noticed yet. As soon as they start pointing them out then I think it’ll be time to do something about it.

How are you feeling about your gray hair?

Don’t miss Lauren Klein Jewelry promotions

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:37:00 +0000

I have admitted to you before that I have an addiction to women’s jewelry. In addition to trolling the Internet for deals and crafting some of my own pieces, I’ve found several sites that have become my favorites because of the gorgeous pieces, fabulous deals and awesome promotions.

Right now there is a Lauren Klein Jewelry promotion where if you show off a piece, on the Lauren Klein Facebook wall then you can get 15 percent off your next purchase. It’s the perfect promo because not only do you get a chance to talk about jewelry, but you get a great deal to use for yourself or to buy something for someone else. You’ll get your code emailed to you once your picture is posted. While you’re there “like” Lauren Klein and receive 15 percent off your entire order. And, if you’re a FB fan, you can get a special 20 percent coupon code for all kids’ jewelry by Lauren G. Adams.

Touch a little girl’s heart with this
Pink Enamel Silver Heart Charm Ring
by Lauren G. Adams

My brain’s Christmas vacation

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 23:48:00 +0000

As a work-from-home mom, I always love holiday breaks ‘cause I don’t have to get up and rush around from early morning ‘til late night taking care of little people. Yes, it’s difficult to get work accomplished, but I like the freedom of my days and the freedom of my brain.

I haven’t written many personal posts because my brain automatically takes a break when the vacations roll around. It’s as if I go into immediate vacation/relax mode and I can’t come up with any creative, entertaining or fact-filled posts about what my children are up to. So as Christmas draws closer, this year ends and another begins I’ll be mostly chilling and relaxing. I’m happy to have the special time with my children and even more time to myself as my little ones spend time with their big sister and visit their father.

This weekend I’ll enjoy watching them play with their gifts and try to relish in each wonderful moment despite the noise that I know will overtake my eardrums. The noisy toys, the loud talking, the rambunctious laughter… but it’s the pure joy that I’ll focus on. While I do that my brain will be gearing up for another year of writing as I make my New Year commitment to meet some personal writing goals.

How’s your regular posting going? Are you taking a vacation or plugging away?

Make money online with your own site

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 00:24:00 +0000

A lot of people realize their everyday jobs are not enough to sustain the type of lifestyle they want, meet the goals they have or take care of their responsibilities. That is why they look for alternative means to make money.

Many individuals want to take their contractual and/or freelance businesses and services online, but they don’t know how to go about it. There are some good resources, which teach how to make money online by creating quality websites. The benefits of having your own site are numerous, let’s review a few:

You will reach a wider audience: Whether you sell a product or offer a service you can offer it worldwide. Not only will you reach your local and national audience, but there is the opportunity to interact with international customers.
It is easy to keep up to date: When you print brochures or catalogs you incur a specific cost per item, don’t reach the maximum number of people you can, and if you don’t use all of your material you haven’t maximized your advertising dollars. With a website you’re able to quickly and easily update it to match your inventory, announce deals and savings as well as connect with your customers through email newsletters and social media.
Twenty-four hour access: Your customers and clients, especially if they’re international or across the country, will need to access your information at varying times of the day. With an online presence – as in a website – you’ll be able to easily meet their needs and stay in touch.

With so many variables in life it is a good idea to consider and implement alternate ways to make money; building your own website and making money online is definitely a viable option. Do you have a product or service you offer online? What are your tips for making money online?

Schools’ holiday fun

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 23:12:00 +0000

Each year there is a flurry of activity as my children get more excited about holidays and their schools plan parties and programs. All of the activity means more mommy time; however, it also means more “awww, aren’t they cute” time. In the spirit of the holidays, I’m sharing some pictures of my little sweethearts. Please forgive the picture quality; they’re from my good ole cell.

The second graders, including my son Andre, sang Christmas carols after the PTA meeting. It was the first time my son looked into the audience, smiled and participated. He used to be one of the shy ones lurking in the background with his lips barely moving and his head down, too shy to look up. Now he’s such a big boy… I wish I had my camera and could find my memory card.

Then, the same week, we all went to Anna’s school to see her class sing during the parenting meeting.

This is Anna’s friend (on the left) who came to her brother’s birthday party in October. She’s one of the cutest, sweetest and most polite little girls. Anna is holding a purple maraca …

Anna was very subdued – and tired! – while performing, but she was still so cute. I was really proud of her for standing in front of everyone and participating; even if it was just a little. :-)

Amareah and Andre really enjoyed watching their sister and her class. They even sang along and danced.

Yesterday was the last of the holiday fun at Anna’s school, at least for the parents, and I’m glad a break is just around the corner. What holiday and school-related activities have been going on with your children?

Sprint 3-Day Sale ends 12/14

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 21:00:00 +0000

This post brought to you by Sprint. All opinions are 100% mine.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas and the deals are in abundance. For a limited time, Sprint is having great holiday deals on Android™ powered EVO 4G or EVO™ Shift devices. Plus, you can get a waived activation fee for new lines of service and free shipping from Sprint. This three-day sale ends on December 14th so you better act quickly to get your Android™ powered EVO 4G devices.

How excited would your loved one be to look under their tree on Christmas morning and find the Android™ powered EVO 4G? With this phone, which has a large 4.3-inch screen, you’ll be able to clearly see what you’re capturing with the awesome dual cameras. This device has 32GB MicroSD card slot and web speeds so fast they’ll pop up before you can finish blinking. It is way more than a phone – you’ll have your hands on a Mobile Hotspot for up to eight Wi-Fi devices. And it’s your personal portable high definition media center. This top-quality mobile device features the Android™ 2.3, which is the award-winning HTC Sense™ experience. And don’t worry about staying connected because it uses the Lithium-ion battery that’ll give you up to six hours of continuous talk time.

With technology like this, talking on the phone just became an entirely new and fun experience.

Why they’re called twins

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 20:40:00 +0000

There are 15 months between my two middle children, Andre and Amareah, but that doesn’t keep a lot of people from asking if they’re twins. In fact, every once in awhile I beckon them by saying, “Twins!”

Them now… They like to have “slumber parties.” That’s his hand on her face!

This is them about three years ago… I don’t think either of them noticed me taking their picture. I used to love dressing them in similar outfits. Aren’t they cute in their track suits?

Buckled in for a long ride. This was in 2006…

Funny how they leaned toward each other…

Oh my goodness, they were the cutest little people. Well, they still are cute, but not baby cute anymore. :-)

What do you think, can they pass for twins? Do you have children close in age that look a lot alike?

A new place to shop

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 02:05:00 +0000

Over the years I’ve developed obsessions with jewelry and deals, among other things. Now, if you combine the two – jewelry for a great deal – then it will take a supernatural act (or a low bank account) to keep me from making a purchase. One of my most recent purchases that I absolutely love is my MORELLATO Ladies Diamond Ring Designed in Metallic Base Metal. I really like it because I think it’s unique and because reminds me of charm bracelets, which I love.

I bought the ring from Modnique.com, and it’s the first time I’ve made a purchase there. While I was scanning the deals one day I saw the ring and had to have it. It was priced at $25, but I had a store credit for $5 (first-time buyer credit, I believe).

Although the ring looked nice online I was not expecting it to be as top quality as it was. Obviously, I’m not familiar with the brand because it appears to be very high end. The ring itself is very heavy and has the brand name engraved on the outside of the band and it arrived in a gorgeous Morellato box with the tag firmly attached to the ring.

The pictures below and left, which I took with my cell phone, do not do the ring justice. I had to use the phone because I can’t find the memory card to my camera!

I wear this ring almost daily along with a charm bracelet I made… I think they compliment each other extremely well. If you’d like to checkout Modnique, please click the link as it is my referral link. I’d love to get a little reward if you make a purchase, and you’ll love to get some great deals on high-end goods. Take a look and let me know what you think.

You can read more about my jewelry obsession when you get a chance. And, if you’d like to get me a gift may I suggest jewelry. :-)

Disclosure: This IS NOT a paid post. Just a little about my love of all things bling.

My sweet grandmother

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 02:03:00 +0000

Everyone who visits my blog knows that I talk about my children quite a bit. You don’t often hear me mention other family members – that’s mostly because I don’t have permission. In fact, my mother has specifically requested that she not be included in any posts or anything on the Internet. No pictures, no references, no nothing.

Although I may not agree, I do respect her privacy and choices. As a matter of fact, when I began blogging I asked my oldest daughter Amber if it was okay to talk about her. It was after I had already started doing it (LOL), but had she been opposed I wouldn’t have continued. I also asked her permission for using her as the subject of my blog posts in Parent’s Perspective on Campus Talk Blog.

Today, I just couldn’t resist telling you about my sweet grandmother. My mom’s mother is the only grandparent I have left and I had a chance to talk to her today. She is 92 years old and she is the sweetest person I know. She’s vibrant, beautiful and touches my heart each times she thinks of me and the children by either asking my mother about us or sending us presents in the mail. I called her because when I checked the mail today I found three boxes she had sent; inside are Christmas presents for the children.

That she took the time to have my aunt send the children some gifts is so thoughtful and sweet. We should be sending her gifts! Although I can’t include any pictures, won’t tell you her name or give you a lot of details it’s an honor to share about my grandmother… the sweetest mom mom I know!

Writing around the web

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 23:26:00 +0000

It was about 1975 when I realized how much I enjoy writing. I like telling stories, relaying facts, entertaining and encouraging through the written word. I even prefer communicating via writing… yes, for the most part, I would rather text than talk on the phone.

My love of writing is what fueled me to begin blogging. (Long after my stints in print journalism – both newspaper and magazine.) In fact, many of you probably don’t know that my first blog is one called Single & Celibate. I stopped updating it quite a few years ago because I became a little bored and I got married. :-) Although, at the time, I still believed in being single and celibate my fire behind it dimmed a little. I still leave it out there because every once in awhile there will be a comment left by someone searching the web for information, confirmation or encouragement about being single and celibate.

Since I’ve begun writing web content, I’ve had a few things posted around the web and currently contribute to a couple of sites. Two of my favorites, which I currently contribute to on an infrequent basis, are Black Love Forum and Campus Talk Blog.

BLF is influential in the movement to restore healthy relationships in the black community, and they’re dedicated to being an agent of change through their website and online community, events and discussions as well as education and coaching. For me, it has given me the opportunity to meet a group of people who have the goal of better understanding and healing our relationships as well as presenting much-needed perspectives on a wide range of topics relevant to successful relationships.

On BLF my most recent post is How to Survive the (failed) Grocery Store Hookup. Although it could have been a vent about why some dude didn’t give me the time a day, it is a humorous account of that encounter. On CTB, I write Parent’s Perspective as the first-time college mom where I write about issues that first-time college parents deal with. Everything from saying good-bye to your student and “friending” them on Facebook to community service, disabled students and moving.

One of the things I like about writing web content is the myriad of things I get to write about including a health essay at HealthyWomen.org and some erotica on a site that I’m not gonna tell you about. Yea, I have to have some secrets.

My love of writing continues and it’s my pleasure to share it with you. The ability to write is a gift and it’s made even better by the extreme love I have doing it.

Get a quote for windshield replacement

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 04:03:00 +0000

One of the best things about the Internet is being able to quickly find a reputable company that can handle the service you need. And when you find that company their website should contain complete information about their services including prices and experience as well as be easy to navigate. Windshield Replacement Phoenix has a site that meets those standards.

With a neat and visually-appealing layout, the site provides contact information in large letters at the top of the home page and not buried at the bottom or on another page like many companies have done. It also has the deals in a visible location as well as an additional link to other offers when applicable.

Visitors to the site can quickly learn about the company – which is family owned and operated, get their auto glass quote/free online estimate, review the Auto Glass Phoenix offers, evaluate the lifetime warranty and see what types of vehicles (all of them, by the way) that the company services. Auto Glass Repair Phoenix does replacements and repairs throughout the state of Arizona and they make it easy to get the job done by offering free mobile services wherever you are located.

The company accepts all insurances and offers $50 cash back with any insurance-approved claim. That is a fabulous deal on top of their lifetime warranty on repairs and the top-quality automotive glass products that are used on your vehicle to ensure yours and your family’s safety while on the road.

If you have damage to your windshield and you are in Arizona then it would be in your best interest to get it taken care of before it gets any worse. You can check out the auto glass repair website for more information or stop by their Randolph Road location.

Windshield Replacement Phoenix
3001 N. Randolph Road #GF4
Phoenix, AZ 85014

(Semi) Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 04:45:00 +0000

I no longer edit my blog in Blogger, I use Windows Live Writer because I find it easier to manipulate the posts and photos. The other day I happened upon this picture, which was loaded into Blogger on December 17, 2008. It's amazing how little the children were just three years ago. Aren't they adorable?

My how they've changed:

My gorgeous babies… :-)

There’s more than one place to call home

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 20:40:00 +0000

In 1995 I moved to Georgia to begin a new life. I was a new U.S. Air Force Veteran, a recent college graduate and a young single parent of a 4-year-old daughter. Sixteen years later I still maintain a home in this southern state. Now I have three more children and quite a bit more life under my belt. One of the things life experience has made me appreciate and desire is having a comfortable, stress-free, cozy and well-equipped domicile to enter into. My current residence, the fourth since I moved her, has afforded me the opportunity to alleviate the stress of home repairs, property upkeep and emergency expenses. Instead I have concentrated on making this home. (Have you seen my decorating efforts? Check out My new life, a post that features pictures of my decorative touches.)

But it doesn’t matter how homey it is, I still have another home – two, in fact. The city of New Castle in Delaware is where I was born and raised and a small, but growing town in Maryland is where my mom still lives. Those two states – and a few surrounding ones – hold what makes them home: my family (98 percent of them), my friends and my memories. Like the carefree walks through my suburban Delaware neighborhood to the 7-Eleven around the corner and the city park that was up the street from my grandparents’ home. And the time a deer trotted inches from my new first car as I cruised the back country roads with the windows down. I could hear the sounds of his hooves on the blacktop road as if it were yesterday. I still remember the fast food joints where I worked and the places I explored my first experiences of pleasure. I can visualize the town before video rental stores, shopping centers and fast food less than 10 minutes away.

All of that makes both Delaware and Maryland, as well as Georgia, my homes. It’s not necessarily my physical location as it is the feelings, meaning and experiences behind these places. I guess that would make the saying “home is where the heart is” true.

I wish I could find pictures of all of my homes to show you, but someone – who shall remain nameless – has not figured out how to organize the thousands of pictures we have. Where do you call home?