It's a woman's world!

A sad letter

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 23 May 2012 15:55:00 +0000

Dear Taste…buds…,

I regretfully inform you that, in the very near future, the time in which you’ve enjoyed your multiple cups of coffee each day is coming to an end. I don’t want to do this to you, but if appears as if said referenced coffee is giving the brain some pain. It’s having daily headaches and the occasional excruciating migraine.

We all know that the reason we consume the coffee is because of you and you will be the most effected. It saddens me to think of the dark roast, smooth creamer and raw sugar that you’ll miss. I know it’s that treat when things are stressful and your current drink of choice since the brain along with just about every other part of the body has also banned the use of alcoholic beverages.

This is an unfair world that we live in, but since we all live and work together we’ll have to do this one thing to make everything work properly. It is my hope that coffee will be introduced again. In fact, I’m in the process of convincing the brain to search out an organic, dark decaffeinated coffee – there has to be one out there somewhere, right?

Don’t let this discourage you. You’ll get one final cup to savor and there is dark chocolate in your near future… we all know how much you enjoy that.

With deepest regrets and love,

The Powers that Be

Are you using moisturizer with SPF? You should

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Sun, 20 May 2012 00:37:00 +0000

About 14 years ago a friend of mine who sold beauty products looked at me and said, “What do you use to wash and moisturize your face?” I told her my beauty regimen, which included using a cleanser in the morning and a basic moisturizer then at night I would usually only rinse with water (occasionally doing a scrub or at-home microdermabrasion) and that was about it. She said, “I’m going to need you to start using a moisturizer at night as well.”

Okay.

She explained that although my skin was still looking good she could see in my forehead and other areas of my face that I needed to do a better job moisturizing. Then as I learned more about my skin and aging, including what I read in the book “I Feel Bad About My Neck” by Norma Ephron, I began consistently using daytime facial moisturizer with SPF of at least 30 along with a nightly cream. My regimen has worked well for me and although I complain about the little wrinkles, lines and changes that have made themselves known, I know that my skin is in very good condition.

Now if you aren’t using, at minimum, a daily facial moisturizer with SPF coverage, then I encourage you to do so. Ideally it’s best to use a daily sunscreen on all of your exposed skin, but at least ensure your face is covered.

I noticed SkinCeuticals has two ideal products to use SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30 and SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50. Daily moisturizers with SPF coverage tend to be a little costlier than regular ones, but they are a fabulous investment and the last quite a long time. Consider trying the SkinCeuticals line, which provides innovative dermatology products that have been proven to improve the overall appearance of your skin.

What’s your skincare routine? Let me know in the comments and tell me what your favorite product is.

Guess what she’s having? And add your name suggestions

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Sat, 19 May 2012 23:54:00 +0000

It hasn’t been that long since I told you I’m going to be a grandmother (you can call me Ge-Ge), but what I didn’t know at the time is what my daughter is having. She found out at her recent OB appointment that she’s having a little girl!

That’s exactly what we wanted. LOL. Yes, I said we. After finally adjusting to the knowledge that my daughter will be a mother, which will ultimately make me a grandmother (grandmother!), I’m pretty excited about the new little girl that’s coming our way.

She’ll arrive some time near the end of September and there seems to be so much to do between now and then. For Amber, there’s school and preparing for the little one and for me there’s taking care of my other three children, scheduling little people’s birthday parties and planning for the mom-to-be celebrations and everything else involved with taking care of a home and family.

You know that feeling you get when you see a precious little one who has just arrived in your family? Well then you probably already know that the feeling starts with the first time you hear or see the little one. You know, the heartbeat… the sonogram. I had the shavings of that feeling with the first ultrasound picture Amber shared with me and when I saw the most recent one the feeling got a little stronger. Especially since the little one had her hands up in the air. It appears she was waving (at me, of course!), but Amber says she was hitting at the sonogram thingy every time it was pressed against Amber’s tummy. She’s naughty and willful already. She even kept turning her face each time the technician tried to get a shot. Once when the doctor walked in she turned her head when she heard his voice and as soon as they tried to capture that shot she looked right away.

I’m going to let you in on the fun, but don’t tell Amber or her boyfriend. I’m taking name suggestions. Amber would like to stick to a name beginning with the letter “A” and, of course, I love that idea (hence my children’s names: Amber, Andre, Amareah and Anna!). So, give it a go: What are your baby girl name suggestions? Also, if you know what the name means then include that in your comment as well.

SkinCeuticals: Innovative skincare product

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Sat, 19 May 2012 22:35:00 +0000

If you’ve been reading my blog for awhile then you know I have a thing for skincare products. I love cream and lotions especially if they’re going to ensure the healthy and beautiful appearance of my skin. That’s why when I learned about SkinCeuticals I had to read about the product for myself and also share what I learned with you.

SkinCeuticals provides innovative dermatology products that have been proven to improve the overall appearance of your skin. The products are made with pharmaceutical grade ingredients and have optimal concentrations of active ingredients. The entire SkinCeuticals program woks as a complete system to provide maximum results.

The product line has 12 products including clarifying cleanser, epidermal repair, equalizing toner, physical UV defense SPF 30 and simply clean. With a mission to improve skin health, I think SkinCeuticals would be a great skincare product to try.

What do you think? Have you tried SkinCeuticals? If not, would you? Take a minute to tell me what you think in the comment section and share what your favorite skincare product is.

Renting textbooks {giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Fri, 18 May 2012 03:29:00 +0000

Guest post by Ann P. Williams
I thought books were expensive back in the 80s when I was in college, but now, the prices are unheard of. Well, not exactly. I hear my college-age nephew complaining about how much books cost. It is not pretty. However, there is a way to fight the high college textbook prices--rent them. Yes, that's right, you can now rent college books from CampusBookRentals.com. (Now, why didn't someone think of that when I was in college?)

Anyhoo, some of the perks to renting your books are:

you can save 40-90% off of bookstore prices
you get free shipping both ways
you can even can highlight in the textbooks
they offer flexible renting periods
and CampusBookRentals.com donates to Operation Smile with each textbook rented!

Here are a couple books for you to check out the price difference for a rental--you will see a huge savings:

http://www.campusbookrentals.com/book/0131392638/Microeconomics-%286th-Edition%29/Jeffrey-M.-Perloff/9780131392632/

http://www.campusbookrentals.com/book/0078112656/Leadership:-Enhancing-the-Lessons-of/Gordon-Curphy,-Richard-Hughes,-Robert-Ginnett/9780078112652/

Wondering how exactly it works? Check out this video to learn more.

To help get the word out, Campus Book Rentals is offering a $50 coupon to one of my lucky readers. Just enter the easy rafflecopter giveaway below!

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post in any fashion.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Breaking news: I’m going to be a grandma

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 16 May 2012 02:59:00 +0000

Yes, really. I’ve known for a few months now and have been waiting for permission to share. Well, in total honesty, I’ve also been waiting to adjust to the news. My beautiful daughter Amber is going to be a mommy at the end of September.

As any parent, I have high hopes, expectations and wishes for my children and, of course, I’ve learned that things don’t always work out like we’d hoped. I’ve adjusted and, most importantly, Amber has as well. Her excitement is evident and I know she’s going to be an awesome mom.

Wow.

That’s the first time I’ve said that. My daughter is going to be a mom. A mother. A parent. A child I raised is going to have a child. It’s quite a surreal experience. I can’t even imagine… but it won’t be long before I won’t have to. :-)

It’s also a little surreal because I’m still raising children. I think somewhere in the recesses of my mind I thought all of my children would be grown before I became a grandparent. Well, it is what it is and speaking of “what it is;” she finds out on Thursday and you’ll be almost the first to know.

Last week a friend of mine who works for BlackAmericaWeb.com asked me to write an article about being a mother. At first I told her I would probably write something from the multi-generational parenting perspective, but when I told her about Amber’s pregnancy she thought of writing an article about giving my child advice on having a child. So that’s what I did.

I think the article turned out really well and it would be great if you’d check it out. It’s called Suddenly Grandma. And before you even let the word slip from your mouth, I will not be answering to Grandma! I’m too young (looking) for that. Just call me Gee-Gee (GG?).

So, in the spirit of giving the advice: Read my Black America Web article then come back and give me advice on being a first-time grandparent.

Plan a visit to London

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Tue, 15 May 2012 20:14:00 +0000

Have you ever wanted to visit London or have you visited in the past? There’s a service that can take some of the stress out of planning your visit by helping you find a suitable London apartment.

London & Worldwide Apartment Booking Service find centrally located apartments at just the right rates. It’s run by Polly and Robert Arnold who have 22 years of experience in London Apartments, and they want to help people have the best possible experience in their city. They’re Londoners who have lived there all of their lives as well as raised their three children there.

Polly and Robert offer personalized services for each client and helps them to meet their needs. Imagine strolling down the streets of London seeing the sites you’ve always dreamed of then going back to your own London Apartment in the evening.

Are you going to visit London for the 2012 Olympics? Have you been before and want to visit again? Then let the Arnolds help you find the perfect place among their list of lovely London Apartments.

Whether you’re traveling with your family or visiting for a corporate event, you will find the right place for you through London & Worldwide Apartment Booking Service.

Happy Mother’s Day… especially to single moms

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Sun, 13 May 2012 20:17:00 +0000

For about 20 years I’ve been a parent and 15 of those have been as a single parent. Being a single mother has it’s own set of challenges. I’m not sure I focus on those challenges from day to day, but it’s especially noticeable when I spend Mother’s Day alone. And when I’m alone with the children on that day there are so many mixed emotions that I’m always between tears and joy for almost the entire day.

I said I wasn’t going to do anything today, but how actually is that possible when my three young children – ages 4, 7 and 8 – are home with me? I mean, I can be lazy and stay in my pajamas all day, but I’ll still have to fix meals and do all of the 100 million things required when one has children.

In my opinion, there’s something special about a husband, significant other or baby daddy honoring you on Mother’s Day. I think a friend of mine put it best, “Without no you, there would be no them.” That same friend was going to buy his ex-wife a Kindle for Mother’s Day, but his children said their mother had hinted about a certain perfume she wanted so he bought that. How sweet, I thought, as my eyes teared up.

I have to pause and say that of all the people – read: men – that I’ve spoken with they are very considerate of their ex-wives or baby mamas. Why, I’ve asked. The majority have simply said, ‘because they’re the mother of my children.’ Some pay mortgages or rent, some pick up kids from school everyday or get them every weekend, I know a couple of guys who go to the exes houses each night to tuck kids in (no, it’s not the ones who are still “relating” with the moms. LOL)… In fact, I’m amazed at some of the things they still do. I even have a few girlfriends who have confirmed this. Wow, I think, it must be nice…

But, I digress…

Then there are the moments, like today, when I was laying down in my room while talking on the phone with my mother and my little one, Anna, came into the room then climbed into the small space next to me and the edge of my bed. After a few minutes, she lifted her little, sleepy face and said in the tiniest voice, “Happy Mother’s Day…”

I nearly melted…

Before that I received a six-page text message from my oldest Amber who couldn’t be here (I think it’s the first Mother’s Day we’ve spent apart) and, among other things, she said, “…I just wanted to say that you’re the best mommy ever and I’m pretty lucky. I’m so glad that I can come to you with anything and know that even if you don’t like it, I always have your love and support no matter what.”

Later after breakfast as I sat on the couch wanting to spend an hour of quietly watching the boob tube, my girls came out with their Mother’s Day cards that they’d just made for me. The cards, on the left here, are so adorable, and the best thing about Amareah’s card was she had put a dollar in it (see below). Boy, that brought a smile to my face and joy to my heart – what a generous little daughter she is. How sweet is that. Anna’s card, the yellow one, is so cute. I love how she draws her people and when I asked her who was in the picture she said me, herself, Andre and Amareah and we’re playing in the park. What an imagination, huh?

Andre gave me a drawing first of me and him standing under a rainbow (the red one below); on the other side, which I didn’t get a picture of, is an abstract drawing (my favorite), with flowers, etc. I guess later he remembered he’d done something in school because he came in with a card he’d either made in class or art. The flower, which you can see on the pink one below, is actually made from his fingerprints. How cool is that?

It’s those things that make me happy and know that I’m doing a good job with my children. They touch my heart and make me feel good, but I have to keep that in mind when – like now – I have sequestered myself in my room after listening to the children fight, yell, cry and scream while playing the Wii.

I’m laying here on the bed, in the dark, with that mixture of feelings going on again. Somewhere between teary and utter joy. Well, I guess that’s the life of a mother anyway, huh?

Happy Mother’s Day ladies. I truly hope you’re enjoying yourself as well as feeling the love, honor and respect that you deserve. Or doing whatever makes you the happiest today.

Fulfill your destiny using a life coach

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Sat, 12 May 2012 03:36:00 +0000

Six and a half years ago I met a California-based life coach who needed an editor and writer. She was in a bit of a pickle and offered her coaching services in exchange for my editorial services. It’s probably one of the best business transactions I’ve made.

I discovered my interest in personal coaching while watching a television show and said if I had the opportunity I would definitely take advantage of it. She helped me implement changes (I’m resistant) and take better care of myself. So much so that I still remember some of the exercises and direction today. I realized that coaching can be a valuable asset to individuals and couples, which is why I pay attention when I come across information about other life coaches.

Recently some information was shared with me about R.A. Leslie, a New-York based life coach and author of “Chasing Rainbows,” which is – in the author’s words – a “fantasy, where fiction is the only reality.” Leslie, who offers relationship coaching, has a way of touching individuals with her words. Wendy Vermeulen, a forensic psychologist, had this to say about “Chasing Rainbows:”

“...this book is going to whisper from the shelves of many 'read me' and it will cure so many hearts! I couldn't stop reading till my eyes were sore.. some day barriers will be broken and a mere mention of chasing rainbows will ignite a room with chitter-chatter and valuable conversation.”

It’s responses like this that reveals to me I’m not the only one moved by the work and assistance of a life coach. It is one of those things that everyone should consider trying. Having a life coach is one of the ways to ensure you’re healthy in mind, body and spirit.

Have you ever used the services of a life coach? If so, please share in the comments. If not, I’d love to hear about that as well.

Only a buck

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Tue, 08 May 2012 22:55:00 +0000

Not too long ago I discovered the closeout aisle at Kroger. Now I know most stores have clearance sections or closeout shelves, but I’d never noticed it at the local Kroger where I shop. When I saw it a few months ago I hit the jackpot and snagged about six bottles of Pantene conditioners and shampoos for about $2 a piece. I gave a set to my oldest daughter (‘cause of course us girls always need some), two for my two middle daughters and two for myself.

Score!

Today I went into the store to get some bottled water and raw sugar then remembered the aisle. It was quiet in the store with not too many people milling about so I was able to peruse at my leisure. There were a couple of things that seemed promising, but I resisted because I didn’t need them and couldn’t think of anyone who needed them. I found two great things: A bottle of stain remover and color-safe bleach that’s normally more than $6. I got it for $3 and it was a definite score ‘cause I needed it. And a book: “Spirit of the Polar Regions, explore the icy wilderness of the Arctic and Antarctic.”

The sticker said $1.00.

Seriously? Yup.

This book is a large hardback, full-color, completely illustrated book, which normally retails for almost $30. Yes, I looked it up. But on the same site you can get it for about $2. With shipping and handling my dollar deal is still the best.

I took the yucky, dirty, torn cover off of it and couldn’t wait until the children came hope from school. They were excited about the book when I showed them. They enjoy reading about different places in the world as well as animals, foliage and people of the area. We didn’t got too far into it today because it’s 256 pages, but I know each of us will spend time checking it out.

Not only was this a good deal, but it’s educational for myself and the children. That’s always a win-win.

Have you found any good deals lately?

Because I like to be helpful (and make a couple of pennies at the same time) here’s my Amazon affiliate link for “Spirit of the Polar Regions.” Under normal circumstances I’d make a small commission, but this link is to the $1.92 book. :-) Enjoy.

Custom-made men’s suits

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Tue, 08 May 2012 01:24:00 +0000

As women we are normally very particular about what we wear and we’re just as particular about what our men wear. I don’t know about you, but I like to see a man in a well-fitted and stylish suit. A lot of times it’s difficult to find a suit that’s well fitted so it’s necessary to invest the time and money into custom made suits.

LS Men’s Clothing, which is considered New York’s Premier Clothier and Custom Suit Maker, provides custom suits, dress shirts, pants, sports coats and tuxedos. This company has been providing custom made suits since 1954 and has sold thousands that were specifically geared toward the physique, taste and personality of their clients.

And they can do the same for the man in your life. The suits are American made by custom tailors using time-honored techniques with special attention to the contemporary styles of today. All you have to do is choose from the fine fabrics, fit and desired style then the tailor takes measurements to ensure the ideal, personalized fit. Once the measurements are taken, it will take two to four weeks until the suit is ready. Throughout the entire process, LS Men’s Clothing & Custom Suits works with you and your man to review all of your options and explain each choice to you. The result: The perfect suit.

Win a personalized baby gift

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Mon, 07 May 2012 17:40:00 +0000

I’m convinced that something personalized is always the best gift to give. Have you noticed how many companies are offering personalization lately? That can only mean one thing: customers – buyers and receivers – are loving these items. And it’s no different for mommies (probably daddies too) of little ones; they love personalized baby gifts.

Baby Stuff Gifts is one of those place where you can find the ideal personalized baby gift, and right now they’re giving away a double ply gingham bib, which is made with woven terry and plush velour. The winner will receive one bib in their choice of pink or blue and be able to have it personalized.

It’s really easy to enter so don’t waste another moment: Go to the Baby Stuff Gifts blog to enter to win. Good luck!

Migraine = kink in day

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Sun, 06 May 2012 01:37:00 +0000

Yea, a migraine puts a kink in the day to say the least. I tend to have chronic headaches, along with the daily pain that my health conditions cause, and every once in awhile those headaches turn into killer migraines.

Today was one of those days.

I sorta felt it coming on late yesterday afternoon, but I tried to ignore it. I didn’t wanna succumb to the nasty little monster because there was a lot of things I wanted to get done. Before the night was over the throbbing had increased so I took two pain pills instead of the normal one and put myself to bed. But several times during the night I awoke with stabbing pain and nausea. I tried eating so I could take my regular meds and a medicine that had been prescribed the last time the pain overtook me. I ate some fruit, took the meds and tried to eat grits. By the time I had the grits made the pain was drumming a beat inside my head … I couldn’t finish the grits. A few bites in and I had to throw it away.

Since the pain wouldn’t subside I decided to go to sleep until the pill kicked in. About two or three hours later the pain was worse and I could barely stand up straight. Although i tried to prevent it tears streamed from my eyes and I began to cry. One – because it hurt so much and, two – because the last time I had pain like that it lasted for a week. I cried ‘cause I was alone, I cried ‘cause of the pain and I cried ‘cause I cried.

I’m sure you understand.

Long story short I ended up getting a friend/neighbor to take me to the ER at the VA hospital. About four or five hours after I took the prescribed headache medicine the migraine started to subside some and I could at least uncover my eyes. I still got a shot from the doctor (Can I say, Thank you, Lord!) and, just to make sure nothing was going on with my multiple myeloma, the doctor order a CT scan.

That came back normal and I got a prescription that I can pick up tomorrow morning. After spending about five hours in the hospital, I made it home and put some food into my stomach. I still have the underlying pain, which sucks, but I’m about to hit the hay early and hopefully they’ll be even less pain tomorrow.

Although I may not be able to finish the chores and work I had to do over the weekend, I’m not going to worry about it. I have to take care of myself and see this pain through to disappearance so when the children come home on Monday I can deal with everything I have to do with them.

I hope your weekend has gone better. What have you been doing today?

Mother’s Day sale: 15 percent off jewelry

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Sat, 05 May 2012 02:46:00 +0000

I was reading a survey about what most moms want for Mother’s Day” On the list is the standard fare, which includes jewelry. You know, something sparkly and pretty that has diamonds, platinum, gold, silver, gems… You get the idea.

If you decide to get the mom in your life a piece of jewelry there are two things you should keep in mind: Her taste and your budget. If you shop at Lauren Klein you’ll find women’s jewelry that fulfills both of those requirements. They have choices that fit every style and budget, and you’re budget will have a little cushion thanks to the 15 percent off Mother’s Day Sale that’s going on right now.

The site features some Mother’s Day arrivals as well as the most adorably gorgeous Mother Daughter Lauren G Adams Bangles. It’s such a lovely idea to give mom and her number one daughter matching jewelry, and with the great deal going on buying the set plus a little something extra won’t stress your wallet at all.

Don’t think about it any longer, go ahead and click over to Lauren Klein and when you check out enter the coupon code MDS15 to get 15 percent off your purchase. Make the mom in your life happy by giving her some fine jewelry and make yourself happy about snagging a great deal.

What’s at the top of your Mother’s Day gift list?

Shopping for your little fashionistas

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 02 May 2012 18:14:00 +0000

A lot of children really don’t care too much about what they wear, but my children – from the oldest to youngest including my son – takes great pride and has unending opinions about what they put on their little bodies. When I was a child I don’t recall having near as much input into what I wore as my children have today.

For instance, recently I’ve discovered that my young daughter doesn’t really like dresses. She’ll wear them if she wants to, and if the style meets her approval, only once in awhile. So far there haven’t been many times that I’ve had to force one on her. In the spirit of “picking my own battles,” I give her choices. She prefers to wear skirts or shorts and in cooler weather she likes jeans. Oh and there are the leggings, jeggings and tunics that rank high on the list. She even knows what skinny jeans are and will request them. No, she’s not 12. She’s a few weeks shy of 5.

That’s why when I shop for my children it takes me quite a bit of time to choose the right garments. If they aren’t with me I rummage through fashions for children until I find something everyone will be happy with. (Just ‘cause I’m a pushover doesn’t mean I don’t make the choices!)

Another thing I must consider when shopping is the price versus the quality. I love designer children's clothing, but I don’t normally purchase it unless there’s a fab deal going on. That’s why when I checked out Ladida I clicked on the sale link first. After that I browsed around and clicked on two of my favorite children’s clothes designers: Bellerose and Ella Moss. They have the funky, fun designs that my middle daughter loves.

I’ve found some great kids’ fashions online, which is where I prefer to shop overall. Where do you purchase your children’s clothes?

How to make chores fun for kids, productive for you

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 22:57:00 +0000

There have been many-an article written about children and chores. There are all sorts of suggestions and ideas… as you read this post, keep in mind that the best ideas come with your twist put into it.

Over the weekend I decided my children were going to help me clean up each room… right after I vegged on the couch and watched television. I didn’t announce it or prepare them, I just stood up and said, ‘Okay, guys, let’s get cleaned up. You guys are going to help me go room to room.’ Now when I said “help me,” I really meant I’m going to direct you and you’re going to do it. We started in the girls’ room then their brother’s room and their bathroom. Then we moved into the kitchen where they emptied the dishwasher and put the dishes away as well as loaded the dishwasher. I had planned on having them help me with my room, but we ran out of time before we were expecting guests.

Playing taskmaster while they clean and straighten isn’t always ideal, but it does get everything accomplished fairly quickly and correctly. Funny thing is these same chores that I shadowed them on are posted on our family chore chart. The same chart they’re supposed to follow each week without prompting and just get done.

Surprise of all surprises: That doesn’t work.

The same happened with the chart that my BFF bought for my son a few years ago. He seldom – although more often – did it without prompting.

I’m of the parenting school where I tell you once or twice and you get it done. Of course the last time that worked for me was about 15 years ago when my almost 21-year-old daughter was young. Of course I only had one children then and that was a whole different generation.

So, how do you get your kids to enjoy chores? The tried and true method is to do it with them because they enjoy spending time with you. How is that productive for you? Well, you’re the taskmaster and you’ll get them to do it like you want it done.

Now before you do this shadow method you want to have already taught them how to do the chores and where to find everything. For instance, when I tell my children to take up the trash I expect them to grab the liner out of the trashcans and replace each can with another liner. If they need to sweep they know where the hand dustpan and broom is as well as the full-sized broom. They also know where dirty clothes go, empty hangers, etc.

Let’s review…

For independent workers:

Teach chore
Demonstrate chore
Delegate chore

For shadowing:

Teach chore
Demonstrate chore
Direct through chore

If you’re a parent who likes to assign rewards to chores then this is the perfect chance to allow some video game time or another activity your child loves. I, for the most,, just allow them to do something they want to do.

And in my infinite parenting wisdom, I prop up my feet and enjoy some reading, channel surfing or more Internet time. Either way, everyone gets something. On the chance that they’ve ~~bribed~~ asked me to play a game then we have some fun family time.

Now how do you delegate your household chores or get your kids to work together? Leave a comment with your tips ‘cause we can all learn from each other.

Support Anna as she supports St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 01:04:00 +0000

Every year the Clayton County Head Start supports St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in their mission of finding cures and saving children with cancer and other catastrophic childhood diseases. They teach the children about riding-toy safety as well as give them an opportunity to support a worthy cause.

St. Jude is the only pediatric cancer research center where families never pay for treatment not covered by insurance and no child is denied treatment because of the family’s inability to pay. Now that’s a good cause to support.

Anna’s goal for this year’s St. Jude Trike-A-Thon is just $100. It would be great if she can meet – or exceed! – her goal. Will you take a moment to sponsor Anna for a worthy cause? It’s easy to do. Just go to her Ways to Help page on the St. Jude site.

Thank you so much for taking the time to support Anna and St. Jude.

Decorate with custom address plaques

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 23:45:00 +0000

If you own a home then you probably like to make sure that the outside of your home, including the yard, etc., looks good especially now that Spring has arrived and the Summer season is beginning. There are lots of ways to get your home looking spiffy. You can add outdoor furniture, garden gnomes, a trellis, solar lights or custom address plaques.

Wouldn’t it be great for your house number to not only stand out from the rest, but to also be unique? Getting that done only takes a moment – all you have to do is click over to Just Address Plaques. The wide variety of classy plaques that they sell make me wish that I was still living in my home. I would have loved shopping in the personalized address plaques section and picking out something that is unique and representative of my personality and style. Although I didn’t like spend that much time in the yard, I did like ensuring that everything looked nice.

Take a moment and check out the residential address plaques. Maybe you’ll see something that appeals to you to spice up the outside of your home. There’s also the added benefit of making your neighbors jealous. ;-)

‘God Gave Us Love’ {children’s book review}

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 01:52:00 +0000

As siblings tend to do, my children have mastered the art of arguments, dissention and sarcasm toward each other. One day, not too long ago, I became so fed up with the bickering between the middle girls that I made the 7 year old write a paragraph about why she loves her sister and I had the 4 year old draw a picture of something she loves to do with her sister. I talked (loudly!) to them for at least 20 minutes about what they would do without their sister and how they should treat those close to them… I even made them say “I love you” to each other when coming and going. I included their brother on that one.

It worked for a bit, but I know there has to be a better way (or at least more ways) to handle this. So when I saw the opportunity to review “God Gave Us Love,” a children’s book by Lisa Tawn Bergren and illustrated by Laura J. Bryant, I immediately requested a copy to share with my children.

In this sweet, softly and beautifully illustrated book, Little Cub has trouble understanding love. She gets upset with her siblings as well as her animal friends preventing her and her grandpa from catching fish. To help her understand the different types of love, Grandpa explains to her that God gives us all types of love and how good that is.

We’ve had the book for about a week and I’ve read it to my children twice. Each time they’ve listened closely and intently gazed at the illustrations. I’ve allowed them to absorb what they’re hearing and make their silly little comments to make each other laugh as well as ask questions if they want. I think each time we read the story the children will take in the message of God’s love and how we should treat others. Little Cub is easy for children, especially those with siblings, to relate to.

“God Gave Us Love” is one of the books in the “God Gave Us” series, which is geared toward children ages 2 to 6. Even older children will enjoy the book and its message; my son, who is 8, was happy to read the book as well.

It’s definitely a book I’m glad to add to my children’s personal library.

Read more about Lisa Tawn Bergren and other books she’s authored.

Disclosure: I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for the purpose of this review. Any opinions expressed here are my own. For more information review my complete disclosure policy.

Deals on designer bedding

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:44:00 +0000

One of the best things about shopping online is finding great deals. It’s so much easier to do a search for the item I’m looking for than to drive from store to store, going in and out in search of the right product for the right price. One of the things I need right now is king-sized sheets for my California king bed, which I love!

Not any old sheets will do either so that means it’s a must to find a fabulous deal. When I learned about Swanky Outlet I had to take a peek at the New Bedding Arrivals. Even though the colors in my bedroom are chocolate brown and red I don’t know if I can pass up the Sky Blue California King 425-thread count deep pocket sheet set I saw. It’s a designer, sateen sheet set that I think would feel marvelous against my skin. Priced at $100, I think that’s a pretty good deal ($60 off the original price).

The Swanky Outlet had some Castlewood Manor Bedding in 800-thread count, but the gold – which was what was left – was all sold out. I would have loved getting my hands on that set in chocolate.

In addition to the regular outlet deals, there are also Swanky Outlet Coupon Specials available. Right now you can get an extra 25 percent off bedding and decorative pillows, but you have to hurry before all the deals are snapped up.

I’m down for some deals on bedding… What about you?

Perfect pick me up… for me & my hair

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 21:06:00 +0000

There are two small things – among many – that make me happy. Getting mail and winning/getting something for free. For more than a week the postman has not liked me. I’m sure that’s the reason I haven’t gotten any good mail. I always receive a much-anticipated magazine, a cool catalog, a free sample or something I’ve ordered. That so.has.not.happened lately.

Today, as I dealt with some emotions that threatened to bring me down and caused tears to trickle down my face, I didn’t expect anything too exciting to happen. I figured there wouldn’t be anything exciting in the mail and I wasn’t expecting anything. So when I heard a knock on the door I couldn’t fathom who it may be.

When I glanced through the peephole I was surprised to see one of my favorite people in the world: the UPS man. He’s been to my apartment so much, and I’ve stalked him quite frequently, that I know his name, notice him on the streets of my city and have even played Words With Friends with him. Sometimes he even stops – with a toot – for me to come out and say hello. Even though I had the phone pressed against my ear and I still smiled when I opened the door.

He handed me a nice size box that was a bit heavy. I looked at the return address, but didn’t recognize the name. I opened the box and pulled out the entire line of Beautiful Textures. Initially, I couldn’t remember if I had entered a contest or received the products to review. I clicked around until I remembered that SimplyNaturalLanea had announced the giveaway on her YouTube channel. I had entered through her channel and Your Beautiful Hair Facebook page. (There are giveaways still going on so go and check it out.)

There are enough products in the prize package to share the Curly to Straight Flat Iron Silkener with my oldest daughter and still have plenty length for us three girls here at home. We definitely plow through products quickly. That’s what happens with three heads of beautiful natural hair. Imagine what it was like when Amber was still living at home.

An-t-way, I plan on using the products tonight because my ‘do is due some TLC and I want to share the results with you via a review. If I don’t get to do that be sure to follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see what I think about how the product worked for my hair.

I.am.excited.

Have you had any pleasant surprises lately?

Mother’s Day gifts for new moms, moms to be

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 17:43:00 +0000

I don’t think I’ll ever forget my first Mother’s Day in 1992. My daughter Amber was about 11 months old and she bought me flowers.

Yup, you read that right. I received flowers and a card from my daughter. Well she, of course, had a little help. My best friend (Frankie. Remember him?) had sent flowers to honor my first Mother’s Day. Sweet, huh? I thought so too. As a matter of fact, I still think so. It’s probably one of the sweetest things that’s ever been done for me.

If you have a new mom or a mom-to-be in your life then don’t forget about her this Mother’s Day. New moms at this stage will love the show of appreciation. Although you mostly want to get moms something for them on this special day, it isn’t unheard of to get them a little something sweet for their infant.

Wouldn’t it be cute to give your pregnant sister (daughter, friend, etc.) a few personalized baby gifts? If you already know the baby’s name you could order a keepsake plate or wall tile, which will make the gift even more special.

If you order from Baby Stuff Gifts, you’ll get a FREE Pastel Pancake Crinkle with any purchase. Mother’s Day is only a few short weeks away so you better start shopping now and put a smile on the face of the mothers in your life.

Much to do about chickens

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 05:51:00 +0000

When I was growing up my mother would tell me stories about what life was like when she was a little girl. I was always fascinated by those tales of her childhood and still envision her as a little girl, the oldest daughter out of seven boys and girls, running around in the wide-open space of the country. In addition to her stories about the miles she walked to school, the change left over from 5 cents at the store and the chores she did around the house, my mom told how it was to raise chickens.

For some reason what she told me about the chickens her family had stuck with me: Images of the cocky rooster that strutted around the yard, the eggs the chickens laid, the hen house that still stood when I was a girl and everything else involved with carrying for and raising chickens still float around in my head. Those stories are probably why I’m always interested when my blogging friend Henrietta at A Hen’s Nest writes about her feathered friends.

I don’t know anything about raising or buying chickens, but I have recently learned a little more. There are actually hatcheries like californiahatchery.com where farmers, or anyone who raises chickens, can go to purchase what they need. Not only does this hatchery have Chickens for sale, but the also provide ducks, geese, game birds, juvenile birds, turkeys, hatching eggs, duck and chicken feed, poultry supplies and incubators and henhouse chicken coops. It never crossed my mind that farmers could simply go online and order all that they needed included specific types Pekin and Mallard Ducklings or the Black Copper Maran chicken.

With everything I learned about chickens from reading my friend’s blog and checking out the hatchery website, it puts an entirely new spin on the stories my mom shared.

Do you magazine surf too?

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 01:15:00 +0000

What’s the main thing I’ve been up to lately? Organizing. Cleaning and organizing. Although at one point in my life – like a hundred years ago – I thought organizing was a one-night stand; now I’ve discovered that it’s an ongoing affair. I’ve also discovered that although you can’t finish, so to speak, you can catch up.

That’s what I’m in the middle of right now: catching up. The first item that’s overflowing is the “to be read” magazine pile. (That pile pictured over there <------ was from last year – and this year’s pile was waaay taller.) That always grows quickly and uncontrollably, doesn’t it? Among the assortment of papers that coming and going are the pretty, glossy, enticing magazines. One may wonder why I don’t just stop the subscriptions or at least reduce them. Well, I did that about two years ago. I put myself on magazine restriction because I never had time to read them. Once I was all caught up and had a free second on my hand there wasn’t anything quick to read AND – most importantly – Who in their right mind can resist free subscriptions?! That’s right. Ninety-nine percent of the magazines that make it through my door I’ve procured for exactly nothing. Yup, ZERO.

With Spring cleaning in mind, and me still going strong with my New Year’s resolutions, I’m taking one project at a time. The office, which is always in need of attention, is first on the list. A few days ago (ahem, about a week) I started reading my magazines; some dating back to November/December 2011.

What I’ve discovered during my marathon magazine session is that I don’t have to read every.single.article in its entirety. I can surf through, tear out articles or references, make notes and when I’m done I put some in the recycling pile and others in the up-cycling pile (for kids’ projects and crafts).

How do you get through your reading piles or stacks of papers? Share your easiest way to get it all organized.

Buy for baby… Free gift with purchase

noreply@blogger.com (Petula Wright) — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 17:26:00 +0000

The other day a friend was telling me what she purchased for a young lady who had recently had a baby. That ended up turning into a conversation about all the cute little baby items there are to choose from. I told her I’m trying to decide on what to get for a new mom’s baby shower and asked her what she thought about personalized baby gifts. We agreed that the first-time mommy would think it especially adorable to have a layette basket filled with items that have her baby’s name on them.

Baby Stuff® Gifts boutique has ideal personalized items for baby including bibs, diaper covers, burp clothes, blankets and more. I was just checking out their Just Ducky Personalized Luxury Layette Basket and think it’ll be the perfect gift. Everything within the basket is practical and the basket can be used to neatly and beautifully store the creams and lotions baby needs.

Right now when you purchase merchandise from Baby Stuff Gifts you’ll receive a FREE Pastel Pancake Crinkle. I don’t know about you, but I love getting a free gift especially when it’s adorable. I can just add the cute little bear to the layette basket to top off an already superb gift.

If you’re looking for a gift for a new mom and baby take a moment to shop at Baby Stuff Gifts. Your new mom will be happy you did.