tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294Wed, 23 May 2012 17:15:04 +000001.24.11Knott'slampsblog awardchalkboardmakeover on a budgetbookswall treatmentDIYlightchairsfloorCSN giveaway winnerChristmas presentsGoodwill dresserChristmas Partyguest posthome officeupgradelink partyTV consoleTwilight Bookseasterbetween naps on the porchinvitesbedspreadQ and A Tuesdaypicture framesshow'Creative Bloggers' Party and HopnightstandstencilspringDIY tutorialwhat I'm thankful for$24.99 Goodwill organizerDIY AUTUMN-ed pumpkinsskin mdemailmanage the blogs you are followingChristmas craftcrochetreviewnumbering comments in Bloggerafghanoutdoor entertainingcraft tutorialchocolate nutellaMaryfeaturedpumpkin patch 2010model hometable01.31.11Legoland 2010pinkifiedChristmas lanternbreakfastchandelierChristmaspeanut butterphoto challengethrift store bargaingarage sale dresserorganizerI SpyMarket Your Biz and Giveawaysdiy showofffall decoratingdrab to fabrecognition day ThursdayInlinkzentrywayfiling cabinetHomeGoodsfunflowersbathroomQ and Arufflespaintingoffice christmas decorationlamp tutorialrecipe tutorialhallway consoleswag bucksspoon rackswap followingsbeachrespond to commentsmirrorwall paintingSouthern In My HeartThanksgivingvalentines artvalentines table centerpiecelinky partyblogging for dollarsevolutiondecoratingSantaangelsconsolebookcaseprincess one's bedroomkitchen cabinetstelephone benchChristmas traditionDIY autumn wreathValentine'smom cavelaminatechampsFancy Fridayblog tutorialchocolate moussenails arttaco pizzabedroomblog sociableheadboardbaby showerofficebudgetboring girl's bedroomcookiesetiquettetutorial31 Days To Hosting a Successful Blog Partyparolroomspiration blog partybathroom tutorialwall art2010side tablekitchenhappy mothers' dayGoodwill junkbetter aftereaster egghuntplayhousenightstand revampGift certificatedresserbefore and aftergiveawayscripture casehome office painting02.07.11CSNknobslampMom cave linky resultsfaceless imagestainok or not ok?musical-themedcardssociableblog featureA cheapskate's approach to transforming her 1st house into a HOME...on a DIME.http://www.homemakeronadime.com/noreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)Blogger314125sjhomemakerhttp://feedburner.google.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-6136096190491721981Tue, 22 May 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-05-22T16:45:00.098-07:00Happy Tuesday, my dear friends! Come on in and link up your family-friendly online businesses and giveaways. It has been long said that businesses are the lifeblood of the economy. Not only that, businesses really fuel the economy. This blog party, solely dedicated to promoting businesses and giveaways, is my way of giving back to the community so welcome to <b>Market Your Biz & Giveaways</b>!<br /> <br /> Gina (who, by the way, already guest posted in my <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/09/blogging-for-dollars-series-guest-post_15.html">Blogging for Dollars Series</a>) from the <a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/">Shabby Creek Cottage</a> said it best, "You may not get a sale directly from that site every single day – but you are building brand recognition. Pepsi does not advertise so that you stop what you’re doing and go directly to buy a drink – but when you do need to quench your thirst and you are shopping for a drink, Pepsi is going to be recognizable to you. Bottom line, you need to build your brand!" This blog party helps you accomplish build your brand.<br /> <br /> Business owners, we wanna see your products. Giveaways are good because they create a buzz about your business. Giveaway hosts, we wanna join! Readers, here's your chance to win fabulous freebies. So come on in and participate in this virtual marketplace. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Featured Biz</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> Our featured biz today is <a href="http://tumblestone.storenvy.com/" target="_blank">Tumblestone Handmakery</a>, a one woman operation, just having fun making cute and interesting things to make people smile. From beautiful one of a kind jewelry pieces to unique home decor items, Tumblestone has affordable gifts for all ages! <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3-YDNECGAdk/T4eTskrdPzI/AAAAAAAAAMA/H4eP3Zfytqo/s1600/birdheaderbfairy1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="280" width="720" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3-YDNECGAdk/T4eTskrdPzI/AAAAAAAAAMA/H4eP3Zfytqo/s1600/birdheaderbfairy1.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> This beautiful and colorful button mosaic photo frame has been created in the pattern of the color wheel. The entire piece measures 6.5"x6.5" and the glass piece inside measures 3"x3". <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/storenvy/product_photos/764215/smallframe_large.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="640" width="480" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/storenvy/product_photos/764215/smallframe_large.JPG" /></a></div> <br/> Here's another cute item. This pretty little frame is covered in shells all over! One large clam shell off to one side, surrounded by alternating teensy clam shells with another type of smaller shell. <br/> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/storenvy/product_photos/623988/nap_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="362" width="483" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/storenvy/product_photos/623988/nap_large.jpg" /></a></div> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Our Party</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> NO RULES! Just link up your etsy and/or family-friendly business, browse other businesses before you and after you. It's a great way to network with other business owners. For the giveaways, same thing. Just link up your giveaways and join the other giveaways that catch your eye. If you have a creative post and you want to increase your followers, the appropriate blog party for that is called <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/07/creative-bloggers-party-hop-070311-made.html">Creative Bloggers' Party & Hop</a>.<br /> <br /> Link opens every Tuesday, 5:00 pm, PST and ends Saturday, 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> Here's the party button. Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated! For one, it will help you to remember to come back here next week. Secondly, we want to spread the word about businesses and giveaways so many can join in. Mentioning it on Twitter and Facebook will also make you totally awesome :)<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" height="175" width="175"/><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" rows="3" name="code-source"><center><a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" /></a></center></textarea></center><br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">MYBG Inspiring Comments</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> <blockquote>"Thanks for hosting. Linkys for biz and giveaways are far and few; your linky has helped me reach to people saying that Adithis Amma Sews has launched Custom Made Kids Clothing and 2 Skirts are already on sale!"<br /> <a href="http://www.adithisammasews.com/" target="_blank">Creative Mama</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you so much for hosting. I've made a recent sale and believe it is from your blog party! Thanks again!"<br /> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/elisabethdavis" target="_blank">Elisabeth Davis</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you for hosting this every week. I have noticed that I do generate a lot of hits from your site and I really appreciate a place that I can find other etsy shops that I might not have seen otherwise. So thank you again."<br /> <a href="http://asouthernladysramblings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kate</a><br /> <br /> "I cannot tell you how much I agree with everything Gina said!! So true to the word! Also, a huge thank you to you for hosting. Ever since I started marketing my shop here I have had several sales and I believe that they came redirected from your blog! Thank you again and God bless!!" <br /> <a href="http://thelittletreasures.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Maya</a><br /> <br /> "Thanks for hosting! Decent linky parties for giveaways and businesses don't seem to exist! So I appreciate this."<br /> <a href="http://designpardeux.com/" target="_blank">Kahli</a><br /> </blockquote>Friends, network, buy if you must, join the giveaways, and have fun!<br /> <br /> PS: I'm not a blog police but in the name of order and organization, you'll be my bloggy BFF if you link up in the appropriate links :D Please note that there are two links. Here's the link for your businesses. There's a second link below specifically for giveaways so how about linking up your giveaways in there? Besides, it's easier to find and join your giveaways if they're in the appropriate link. If you accidentally linked up in the wrong spot, don't fret. Just click the red x before your link to delete it, then link up in the correct spot. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Family-friendly Businesses Here</FONT></i></b><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id=wpImg156851><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=156851"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=156851"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=156851"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Giveaways Here</FONT></i></b><br /> To bring maximum exposure for your giveaways, I'm collaborating with Brynn from MommyDigger so please feel free to link up your giveaways, too, in her party every Wednesday.<br /> <center><a href="http://www.mommydigger.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mommydigger.com/MommyDigging-Giveaway-Blog-Hop.png" target="_blank" border="0"/></a></center><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id=wpImg156852><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=156852"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=156852"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=156852"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div> '); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'> <a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div> </center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-6136096190491721981?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/05/market-your-biz-and-giveaways-50.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-3156767687272611457Sun, 20 May 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-05-20T16:45:00.318-07:00Happy Sunday to everyone! Welcome to our Creative Bloggers' Party & Hop :) I hope that you are having a great week.<br /> <br /> Princess One has been so excited since September because the dream of every 5th grader is about to come true starting tomorrow. They will be off to Astro Camp up in the mountains and she's so excited to experience being on her own for a few days (and according to her, to have some days off from her annoying little sister - hah!) Her enthusiasm is so contagious but there are some things that I dare not tell her as of this time. Like I'll miss her constant chatter once I come home from work, and that I'll worry to death on how she's doing up there with her classmates, and that at the end of her camp, she'll miss home so much that she would even miss her annoying little sister. These are things that she has to experience on her own at the proper time so they will be meaningful for her. As of this time, all I can do is help her pack and give her pieces of advice so she can hold up on her own once she's there. <br /> <br /> <b><i><span>Favorite Blog</span></i></b><br /> You clicked, inlinkz tallied. The readers' favorite blog post this past week, being the most viewed post, is <a href="http://glutenfreewithjudee.blogspot.com/2012/05/weight-loss-motivation-monday-iii-guest.html" target="_blank"> Weight Loss Motivation Monday</a> by Gluten-free A-Z Blog. This is a timely article for me because I'm in that stage that calories don't easily burn for me anymore. There are great tips that helped the writer lose weight and keep it off!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qSr-C4uaq6I/T6bu7l-KVmI/AAAAAAAABtY/q_At2gXvic4/s400/Victoria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qSr-C4uaq6I/T6bu7l-KVmI/AAAAAAAABtY/q_At2gXvic4/s400/Victoria.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <b><i><span>Our Party</span></i></b><br /> To the main course of this post. <br /> For those of you joining us for the first time, we only have 2 easy, simple rules:<br /> <br /> 1) Link up your creative post - can be a DIY project, decor, photography, crafts, recipes, poem, thrift finds, link party, or that informative syndicated post that can make us laugh, or cry - in short, whatever you're proud of! And if you like to link more creative posts, go for it! We'd love to see them :) (No links to businesses or giveaways. We have another party for these exclusively every Tuesday called Market Your Biz &amp; Giveaways at 5 pm, PST.)<br /> <br /> 2) Follow as many blogs as you desire, either via Google Friend Connect or <a href="http://www.linkyfollowers.com/" target="_blank">Linky Followers</a>, preferably starting first with the one who linked before you and after you, before branching out, and let them know by leaving a comment. (Following me will be very much appreciated, and I definitely follow back. Just let me know you're following.)<br /> <br /> Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated :) It will help you remember to come back and link up to the the happiest blog party on the block (ahem!). It will also help others find their way to the party which we all love because the more the merrier :)<br /> <br /> Link opens up every Sunday at 5:00 pm, PST and ends Friday at 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" name="code-source" rows="3">&lt;center&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/center&gt;</textarea></center><br /> Friends, go ahead and get to know each :) One followed blogger is one gained friend. And please, don't forget to join my Market Your Biz and Giveaways blog party every Tuesday at 5 pm, PST. It's your chance for free promotion of your family-friendly business and giveaways.<br /> <br /> Now, let's party like no other!<br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id=wpImg156328><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=156328"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=156328"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=156328"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --> <br /> <b><i><span>Burning question:</b> </span></i>What are the things you do or say to your kids when they will be away from home the first time around?<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-3156767687272611457?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/05/creative-bloggers-party-hop-60.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-6815568714552899666Tue, 15 May 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-05-15T16:45:00.127-07:00Market Your Biz and GiveawaysHappy Tuesday, my dear friends! Come on in and link up your family-friendly online businesses and giveaways. It has been long said that businesses are the lifeblood of the economy. Not only that, businesses really fuel the economy. This blog party, solely dedicated to promoting businesses and giveaways, is my way of giving back to the community so welcome to <b>Market Your Biz & Giveaways</b>!<br /> <br /> Gina (who, by the way, already guest posted in my <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/09/blogging-for-dollars-series-guest-post_15.html">Blogging for Dollars Series</a>) from the <a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/">Shabby Creek Cottage</a> said it best, "You may not get a sale directly from that site every single day – but you are building brand recognition. Pepsi does not advertise so that you stop what you’re doing and go directly to buy a drink – but when you do need to quench your thirst and you are shopping for a drink, Pepsi is going to be recognizable to you. Bottom line, you need to build your brand!" This blog party helps you accomplish build your brand.<br /> <br /> Business owners, we wanna see your products. Giveaways are good because they create a buzz about your business. Giveaway hosts, we wanna join! Readers, here's your chance to win fabulous freebies. So come on in and participate in this virtual marketplace. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Featured Biz</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> Our featured biz today is <a href="http://www.fashiontofigure.com/">Fashion to Figure</a>, a store that specializes in trendy plus size clothing and fashion to women. <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.fashiontofigure.com/images/ftf_logo.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="87" width="489" src="http://www.fashiontofigure.com/images/ftf_logo.gif" /></a></div> <br /> Fashion to Figure is a leader in plus size fashion. When it comes to plus sizes, they work very hard to design trendy plus size clothing that will appeal to fashionable women of all sizes. They started this business with the understanding that many women feel there is limited selection when it comes to plus size clothing. They see no reason why women’s plus size clothing should be limited in selection, and it’s their goal to give their customers as much choice as possible when it comes to plus size apparel. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.fashiontofigure.com/images/hmpg_Aug_6c_02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="479" width="267" src="http://www.fashiontofigure.com/images/hmpg_Aug_6c_02.jpg" /></a></div> <br/> When they contacted me to try their products, I ordered this zig-zag clutch purse that's chic, textured and versatile, with a zig-zag woven into the front flap. Faux-suede earns it extra points in the classy column. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yAkcx0NE8qc/T7BZxcwSx5I/AAAAAAAAAaM/GTExQOHj58M/s1600/Clutch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yAkcx0NE8qc/T7BZxcwSx5I/AAAAAAAAAaM/GTExQOHj58M/s400/Clutch.jpg" /></a></div> Since Princess One is a purple-loving girl, I got her this crochet ruffle scarf. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8btBd9PBBb4/T7BaBu3pmfI/AAAAAAAAAaY/_lY9Uip5wpg/s1600/Naomi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="302" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8btBd9PBBb4/T7BaBu3pmfI/AAAAAAAAAaY/_lY9Uip5wpg/s400/Naomi.jpg" /></a></div> Overall, from ordering to delivery, I had a great experience buying from <a href="http://www.fashiontofigure.com/">Fashion to Figure</a>, not to mention the excellent products that I received.<br/><br/> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Our Party</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> NO RULES! Just link up your etsy and/or family-friendly business, browse other businesses before you and after you. It's a great way to network with other business owners. For the giveaways, same thing. Just link up your giveaways and join the other giveaways that catch your eye. If you have a creative post and you want to increase your followers, the appropriate blog party for that is called <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/07/creative-bloggers-party-hop-070311-made.html">Creative Bloggers' Party & Hop</a>.<br /> <br /> Link opens every Tuesday, 5:00 pm, PST and ends Saturday, 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> Here's the party button. Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated! For one, it will help you to remember to come back here next week. Secondly, we want to spread the word about businesses and giveaways so many can join in. Mentioning it on Twitter and Facebook will also make you totally awesome :)<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" height="175" width="175"/><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" rows="3" name="code-source"><center><a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" /></a></center></textarea></center><br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">MYBG Inspiring Comments</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> <blockquote>"Thanks for hosting. Linkys for biz and giveaways are far and few; your linky has helped me reach to people saying that Adithis Amma Sews has launched Custom Made Kids Clothing and 2 Skirts are already on sale!"<br /> <a href="http://www.adithisammasews.com/" target="_blank">Creative Mama</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you so much for hosting. I've made a recent sale and believe it is from your blog party! Thanks again!"<br /> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/elisabethdavis" target="_blank">Elisabeth Davis</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you for hosting this every week. I have noticed that I do generate a lot of hits from your site and I really appreciate a place that I can find other etsy shops that I might not have seen otherwise. So thank you again."<br /> <a href="http://asouthernladysramblings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kate</a><br /> <br /> "I cannot tell you how much I agree with everything Gina said!! So true to the word! Also, a huge thank you to you for hosting. Ever since I started marketing my shop here I have had several sales and I believe that they came redirected from your blog! Thank you again and God bless!!" <br /> <a href="http://thelittletreasures.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Maya</a><br /> <br /> "Thanks for hosting! Decent linky parties for giveaways and businesses don't seem to exist! So I appreciate this."<br /> <a href="http://designpardeux.com/" target="_blank">Kahli</a><br /> </blockquote>Friends, network, buy if you must, join the giveaways, and have fun!<br /> <br /> PS: I'm not a blog police but in the name of order and organization, you'll be my bloggy BFF if you link up in the appropriate links :D Please note that there are two links. Here's the link for your businesses. There's a second link below specifically for giveaways so how about linking up your giveaways in there? Besides, it's easier to find and join your giveaways if they're in the appropriate link. If you accidentally linked up in the wrong spot, don't fret. Just click the red x before your link to delete it, then link up in the correct spot. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Family-friendly Businesses Here</FONT></i></b><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id=wpImg154397><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=154397"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=154397"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=154397"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Giveaways Here</FONT></i></b><br /> To bring maximum exposure for your giveaways, I'm collaborating with Brynn from MommyDigger so please feel free to link up your giveaways, too, in her party every Wednesday.<br /> <center><a href="http://www.mommydigger.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mommydigger.com/MommyDigging-Giveaway-Blog-Hop.png" target="_blank" border="0"/></a></center><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id=wpImg154399><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=154399"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=154399"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=154399"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --><br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-6815568714552899666?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/05/market-your-biz-and-giveaways-49.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-9091311518497204832Sun, 13 May 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-05-13T16:45:00.802-07:00Happy Mothers' Day to all mothers out there :) During this special day, we always celebrate it at home, and since my mother lives with us, it's always a double celebration. We tend to shun away from restaurants or any form of going out during this day because 1) restaurants are totally crowded and the wait time is at least 45 minutes even if you reserved way in advance, 2) having little ones with short attention span + a big crowd = recipe for meltdown disaster, 3) I prefer home-cooked meals that my husband prepares yearly for this occasion, or 4) we celebrate it the day before Mothers' Day by dining out. We were treated last night to a Claim Jumper dinner and for me, that was a heavenly affair after being embroiled so much with work in my real job. And it got better this morning :) Princess One prepared our breakfast today, and she made my favorite pancake with Nutella on top (melt). No matter what they say, that Mothers' Day is just created for commercialism purposes or to boost Hallmark card sales, the spirit of celebrating motherhood is still one honorable and thoughtful recognition of all mothers' love for their children. To all mothers out there, here's one big, virtual hug and I hope you enjoy this special day :) <br /> <br /> <i><span>Blog Tip</span></i><br /> Our blog tip today is Kim from 733's <a href="http://www.733blog.com/2012/05/how-to-nrelate-related-posts-widget.html">How to: nRelate Related Post widget</a>. If you're using LinkWithin like me, then you're two steps ahead because the concept is the same, but much more. Check out Kim's explanation because nRelate can also include sponsored links for you to earn a little bit of money.<br /> <br /> <i><span>Favorite Blog</span></i><br /> You clicked, inlinkz tallied. The readers' favorite blog post this past week, being the most viewed post, is Greene Acres Hobby Farm's <a href="http://greeneacreshobbyfarm.blogspot.com/2012/04/35-diy-clothespin-projects-ideas-and.html" target="_blank">35 DIY Clothespin Projects, Ideas, and More</a>. Who knew clothespins can be so stylish, useful and cool?<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://media-cache7.pinterest.com/upload/232287293249958464_iWd1nAPE_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="566" width="425" src="http://media-cache7.pinterest.com/upload/232287293249958464_iWd1nAPE_c.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <i><span>Our Party</span></i><br /> To the main course of this post. <br /> For those of you joining us for the first time, we only have 2 easy, simple rules:<br /> <br /> 1) Link up your creative post - can be a DIY project, decor, photography, crafts, recipes, poem, thrift finds, link party, or that informative syndicated post that can make us laugh, or cry - in short, whatever you're proud of! And if you like to link more creative posts, go for it! We'd love to see them :) (No links to businesses or giveaways. We have another party for these exclusively every Tuesday called Market Your Biz &amp; Giveaways at 5 pm, PST.)<br /> <br /> 2) Follow as many blogs as you desire, either via Google Friend Connect or <a href="http://www.linkyfollowers.com/" target="_blank">Linky Followers</a>, preferably starting first with the one who linked before you and after you, before branching out, and let them know by leaving a comment. (Following me will be very much appreciated, and I definitely follow back. Just let me know you're following.)<br /> <br /> Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated :) It will help you remember to come back and link up to the the happiest blog party on the block (ahem!). It will also help others find their way to the party which we all love because the more the merrier :)<br /> <br /> Link opens up every Sunday at 5:00 pm, PST and ends Friday at 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" name="code-source" rows="3">&lt;center&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/center&gt;</textarea></center><br /> Friends, go ahead and get to know each :) One followed blogger is one gained friend. And please, don't forget to join my Market Your Biz and Giveaways blog party every Tuesday at 5 pm, PST. It's your chance for free promotion of your family-friendly business and giveaways.<br /> <br /> Now, let's party like no other!<br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id=wpImg154228><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=154228"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=154228"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=154228"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --> <br /> <i><span>Burning question: </span></i>How do you celebrate Mothers' Day?<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div> '); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'> <a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div> </center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-9091311518497204832?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/05/creative-bloggers-party-hop-59.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-4538402622213312317Tue, 08 May 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-05-13T10:17:58.219-07:00Happy Tuesday, my dear friends! Come on in and link up your family-friendly online businesses and giveaways. It has been long said that businesses are the lifeblood of the economy. Not only that, businesses really fuel the economy. This blog party, solely dedicated to promoting businesses and giveaways, is my way of giving back to the community so welcome to <b>Market Your Biz & Giveaways</b>!<br /> <br /> Gina (who, by the way, already guest posted in my <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/09/blogging-for-dollars-series-guest-post_15.html">Blogging for Dollars Series</a>) from the <a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/">Shabby Creek Cottage</a> said it best, "You may not get a sale directly from that site every single day – but you are building brand recognition. Pepsi does not advertise so that you stop what you’re doing and go directly to buy a drink – but when you do need to quench your thirst and you are shopping for a drink, Pepsi is going to be recognizable to you. Bottom line, you need to build your brand!" This blog party helps you accomplish build your brand.<br /> <br /> Business owners, we wanna see your products. Giveaways are good because they create a buzz about your business. Giveaway hosts, we wanna join! Readers, here's your chance to win fabulous freebies. So come on in and participate in this virtual marketplace. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Our Party</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> NO RULES! Just link up your etsy and/or family-friendly business, browse other businesses before you and after you. It's a great way to network with other business owners. For the giveaways, same thing. Just link up your giveaways and join the other giveaways that catch your eye. If you have a creative post and you want to increase your followers, the appropriate blog party for that is called <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/07/creative-bloggers-party-hop-070311-made.html">Creative Bloggers' Party & Hop</a>.<br /> <br /> Link opens every Tuesday, 5:00 pm, PST and ends Saturday, 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> Here's the party button. Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated! For one, it will help you to remember to come back here next week. Secondly, we want to spread the word about businesses and giveaways so many can join in. Mentioning it on Twitter and Facebook will also make you totally awesome :)<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" height="175" width="175"/><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" rows="3" name="code-source"><center><a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" /></a></center></textarea></center><br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">MYBG Inspiring Comments</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> <blockquote>"Thanks for hosting. Linkys for biz and giveaways are far and few; your linky has helped me reach to people saying that Adithis Amma Sews has launched Custom Made Kids Clothing and 2 Skirts are already on sale!"<br /> <a href="http://www.adithisammasews.com/" target="_blank">Creative Mama</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you so much for hosting. I've made a recent sale and believe it is from your blog party! Thanks again!"<br /> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/elisabethdavis" target="_blank">Elisabeth Davis</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you for hosting this every week. I have noticed that I do generate a lot of hits from your site and I really appreciate a place that I can find other etsy shops that I might not have seen otherwise. So thank you again."<br /> <a href="http://asouthernladysramblings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kate</a><br /> <br /> "I cannot tell you how much I agree with everything Gina said!! So true to the word! Also, a huge thank you to you for hosting. Ever since I started marketing my shop here I have had several sales and I believe that they came redirected from your blog! Thank you again and God bless!!" <br /> <a href="http://thelittletreasures.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Maya</a><br /> <br /> "Thanks for hosting! Decent linky parties for giveaways and businesses don't seem to exist! So I appreciate this."<br /> <a href="http://designpardeux.com/" target="_blank">Kahli</a><br /> </blockquote>Friends, network, buy if you must, join the giveaways, and have fun!<br /> <br /> PS: I'm not a blog police but in the name of order and organization, you'll be my bloggy BFF if you link up in the appropriate links :D Please note that there are two links. Here's the link for your businesses. There's a second link below specifically for giveaways so how about linking up your giveaways in there? Besides, it's easier to find and join your giveaways if they're in the appropriate link. If you accidentally linked up in the wrong spot, don't fret. Just click the red x before your link to delete it, then link up in the correct spot. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Family-friendly Businesses Here</FONT></i></b><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id=wpImg152927><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=152927"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=152927"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=152927"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Giveaways Here</FONT></i></b><br /> To bring maximum exposure for your giveaways, I'm collaborating with Brynn from MommyDigger so please feel free to link up your giveaways, too, in her party every Wednesday.<br /> <center><a href="http://www.mommydigger.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mommydigger.com/MommyDigging-Giveaway-Blog-Hop.png" target="_blank" border="0"/></a></center><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id=wpImg152928><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=152928"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=152928"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=152928"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div> '); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'> <a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div> </center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-4538402622213312317?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/05/happy-tuesday-my-dear-friends-come-on.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-2881411244794851140Sun, 06 May 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-05-06T16:45:00.358-07:00Welcome to our weekly date, my dear friends! Thank you for coming to the 58th edition of Creative Bloggers' Party & Hop :) In just a week is Mothers' Day again so it will be another exciting week for all of us.<br /> <br /> Friends, are you adventurous when it comes to food? When I was still in the Philippines, I just ate regular Filipino and some other Asian foods but as soon as I arrived here in California, I was exposed to different kinds such as Mexican, Peruvian, Greek, Indian, etc. Never did I imagine that I can eat raw stuff like sashimi, or something peculiar (at least for me) like artichoke. My exploration didn't end there because I discovered mochi ice cream recently, a Japanese confection made from mochi (pounded sticky rice) with an ice cream filling (definition from wikipedia). It's soooo good, and in case you're wondering, below is a sample picture with different flavors such as mango, strawberry, vanilla, and green tea. <br/><br/> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://encrypted-tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQxi_iy2dDfCpJEJiQfXvFlsrna0RqoC65URvWwZNeN0MRPXBIw" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="195" width="259" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQxi_iy2dDfCpJEJiQfXvFlsrna0RqoC65URvWwZNeN0MRPXBIw" /></a></div> <i><span>Blog Tip</span></i><br /> Our blog tip today is this article on <a href="http://digital-photography-school.com/digital-photography-composition-tips">Digital Photography Composition Tips</a>. These are useful tips to create those stunning and captivating photos that you want included in your blog.<br /> <br /> <i><span>Favorite Blog</span></i><br /> You clicked, inlinkz tallied. The readers' favorite blog post this past week, being the most viewed post, is Creatively Living's <a href="http://blah2beautiful.blogspot.com/2012/04/kitchen-real-reveal.html" target="_blank">Kitchen Remodel</a>. I'm so swooning over the transformation from blah to beautiful.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DlOchf89Ch8/T5m9XO2J0eI/AAAAAAAAI-0/7xmpIgwxrB4/s640/kitchen+final+pics+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="433" width="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DlOchf89Ch8/T5m9XO2J0eI/AAAAAAAAI-0/7xmpIgwxrB4/s640/kitchen+final+pics+1.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <i><span>Our Party</span></i><br /> To the main course of this post. <br /> For those of you joining us for the first time, we only have 2 easy, simple rules:<br /> <br /> 1) Link up your creative post - can be a DIY project, decor, photography, crafts, recipes, poem, thrift finds, link party, or that informative syndicated post that can make us laugh, or cry - in short, whatever you're proud of! And if you like to link more creative posts, go for it! We'd love to see them :) (No links to businesses or giveaways. We have another party for these exclusively every Tuesday called Market Your Biz &amp; Giveaways at 5 pm, PST.)<br /> <br /> 2) Follow as many blogs as you desire, either via Google Friend Connect or <a href="http://www.linkyfollowers.com/" target="_blank">Linky Followers</a>, preferably starting first with the one who linked before you and after you, before branching out, and let them know by leaving a comment. (Following me will be very much appreciated, and I definitely follow back. Just let me know you're following.)<br /> <br /> Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated :) It will help you remember to come back and link up to the the happiest blog party on the block (ahem!). It will also help others find their way to the party which we all love because the more the merrier :)<br /> <br /> Link opens up every Sunday at 5:00 pm, PST and ends Friday at 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" name="code-source" rows="3">&lt;center&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/center&gt;</textarea></center><br /> Friends, go ahead and get to know each :) One followed blogger is one gained friend. And please, don't forget to join my Market Your Biz and Giveaways blog party every Tuesday at 5 pm, PST. It's your chance for free promotion of your family-friendly business and giveaways.<br /> <br /> Now, let's party like no other!<br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id=wpImg152243><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=152243"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=152243"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=152243"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --> <br /> <i><span>Burning question: </span></i>How adventurous are you when it comes to food? Do you play it safe and eat just the familiar ones, or do you explore and try foods that are unfamiliar to you?<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div> '); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'> <a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div> </center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-2881411244794851140?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/05/creative-bloggers-party-hop-58.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-4730003000943817370Tue, 01 May 2012 23:30:00 +00002012-05-01T16:30:00.693-07:00Happy Tuesday, my dear friends! Come on in and link up your family-friendly online businesses and giveaways. It has been long said that businesses are the lifeblood of the economy. Not only that, businesses really fuel the economy. This blog party, solely dedicated to promoting businesses and giveaways, is my way of giving back to the community so welcome to <b>Market Your Biz & Giveaways</b>!<br /> <br /> Gina (who, by the way, already guest posted in my <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/09/blogging-for-dollars-series-guest-post_15.html">Blogging for Dollars Series</a>) from the <a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/">Shabby Creek Cottage</a> said it best, "You may not get a sale directly from that site every single day – but you are building brand recognition. Pepsi does not advertise so that you stop what you’re doing and go directly to buy a drink – but when you do need to quench your thirst and you are shopping for a drink, Pepsi is going to be recognizable to you. Bottom line, you need to build your brand!" This blog party helps you accomplish build your brand.<br /> <br /> Business owners, we wanna see your products. Giveaways are good because they create a buzz about your business. Giveaway hosts, we wanna join! Readers, here's your chance to win fabulous freebies. So come on in and participate in this virtual marketplace. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Featured Biz</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> Our featured biz today is <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/AnnKayDesign#" target="_blank">Ann-Kay Design</a>, an etsy store that sells bridal bouquets & accessories, paper flowers, wedding & party decoration, handmade & upcycled products, vintage & unique finds, and seasonal decorations.<br /> <br /> Here's her Bridal Bouquet with Paper Flowers in pink, peach and yellow / Braustrauss. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://img1-ll.etsystatic.com/000/0/0/iusb_760x100.8847269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="100" width="760" src="http://img1-ll.etsystatic.com/000/0/0/iusb_760x100.8847269.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> These Kusudama Paper Flowers Set of 35 Origami Blooms look great solo scattered on a table, as a centerpiece and in a vase. Use them for a wedding or to decorate the home. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://img0-ll.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.320890188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="428" width="570" src="http://img0-ll.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.320890188.jpg" /></a></div> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Our Party</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> NO RULES! Just link up your etsy and/or family-friendly business, browse other businesses before you and after you. It's a great way to network with other business owners. For the giveaways, same thing. Just link up your giveaways and join the other giveaways that catch your eye. If you have a creative post and you want to increase your followers, the appropriate blog party for that is called <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/07/creative-bloggers-party-hop-070311-made.html">Creative Bloggers' Party & Hop</a>.<br /> <br /> Link opens every Tuesday, 5:00 pm, PST and ends Saturday, 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> Here's the party button. Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated! For one, it will help you to remember to come back here next week. Secondly, we want to spread the word about businesses and giveaways so many can join in. Mentioning it on Twitter and Facebook will also make you totally awesome :)<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" height="175" width="175"/><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" rows="3" name="code-source"><center><a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" /></a></center></textarea></center><br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">MYBG Inspiring Comments</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> <blockquote>"Thanks for hosting. Linkys for biz and giveaways are far and few; your linky has helped me reach to people saying that Adithis Amma Sews has launched Custom Made Kids Clothing and 2 Skirts are already on sale!"<br /> <a href="http://www.adithisammasews.com/" target="_blank">Creative Mama</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you so much for hosting. I've made a recent sale and believe it is from your blog party! Thanks again!"<br /> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/elisabethdavis" target="_blank">Elisabeth Davis</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you for hosting this every week. I have noticed that I do generate a lot of hits from your site and I really appreciate a place that I can find other etsy shops that I might not have seen otherwise. So thank you again."<br /> <a href="http://asouthernladysramblings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kate</a><br /> <br /> "I cannot tell you how much I agree with everything Gina said!! So true to the word! Also, a huge thank you to you for hosting. Ever since I started marketing my shop here I have had several sales and I believe that they came redirected from your blog! Thank you again and God bless!!" <br /> <a href="http://thelittletreasures.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Maya</a><br /> <br /> "Thanks for hosting! Decent linky parties for giveaways and businesses don't seem to exist! So I appreciate this."<br /> <a href="http://designpardeux.com/" target="_blank">Kahli</a><br /> </blockquote>Friends, network, buy if you must, join the giveaways, and have fun!<br /> <br /> PS: I'm not a blog police but in the name of order and organization, you'll be my bloggy BFF if you link up in the appropriate links :D Please note that there are two links. Here's the link for your businesses. There's a second link below specifically for giveaways so how about linking up your giveaways in there? Besides, it's easier to find and join your giveaways if they're in the appropriate link. If you accidentally linked up in the wrong spot, don't fret. Just click the red x before your link to delete it, then link up in the correct spot. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Family-friendly Businesses Here</FONT></i></b><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id=wpImg150397><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=150397"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=150397"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=150397"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --><br/> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Giveaways Here</FONT></i></b><br /> To bring maximum exposure for your giveaways, I'm collaborating with Brynn from MommyDigger so please feel free to link up your giveaways, too, in her party every Wednesday.<br /> <center><a href="http://www.mommydigger.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mommydigger.com/MommyDigging-Giveaway-Blog-Hop.png" target="_blank" border="0"/></a></center><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id=wpImg150402><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=150402"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=150402"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=150402"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div> '); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'> <a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div> </center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-4730003000943817370?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/05/market-your-biz-and-giveaways-47.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-8758318681062672110Sun, 29 Apr 2012 23:30:00 +00002012-04-29T16:30:00.222-07:00Happy Sunday, my dear friends! Hope that this week will be full of God's choicest blessings in your life.<br /> <br /> I bet that most of you mothers out there had to contend at some point in time about picky eaters in the family. This is a normal thing in our home and I consider Princess Two a very normal kid in this aspect. As soon as she sees meat on the table, she will say, "I don't like that" and no amount of persuasion will make her change her mind...until I found an effective technique. Last night, our dinner was mashed potatoes, gravy, and pork chop so I shaped the gravy like a volcano, put gravy in the middle as the lava, and when the volcano exploded, the lava flowed, and there were rocks (pork chop slices) along the way. For a change, Princess Two just kept on swallowing the mashed potato with the pork chop without a fuss as we kept on pretending that she was eating an exploding volcano. I tell ya, motherhood really brings out an excessive amount of imaginative creativity in you.<br /><br /> <i><span>Blog Tip</span></i><br /> Our blog tip today is this article on <a href="http://photo.tutsplus.com/articles/inspiration/8-tips-for-taking-interior-shots-like-a-pro/">8 Tips for Taking Interior Shots Like a Pro</a>. These tips are helpful when we want to take great photos inside our home.<br /> <br /> <i><span>Favorite Blog</span></i><br /> You clicked, inlinkz tallied. The readers' favorite blog post this past week, being the most viewed post, is Fab Rehab Creations' <a href="http://fabrehabcreations.blogspot.com/2012/04/trio-of-tables-unify-with-paint.html" target="_blank">Trio of Tables: Unify with Paint</a>. It's amazing to know that the secret to unifying pieces of furniture is through painting them all with the same color.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z385/apbaker/DSC_2916-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="364" width="572" src="http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z385/apbaker/DSC_2916-2.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <i><span>Our Party</span></i><br /> To the main course of this post. <br /> For those of you joining us for the first time, we only have 2 easy, simple rules:<br /> <br /> 1) Link up your creative post - can be a DIY project, decor, photography, crafts, recipes, poem, thrift finds, link party, or that informative syndicated post that can make us laugh, or cry - in short, whatever you're proud of! And if you like to link more creative posts, go for it! We'd love to see them :) (No links to businesses or giveaways. We have another party for these exclusively every Tuesday called Market Your Biz &amp; Giveaways at 5 pm, PST.)<br /> <br /> 2) Follow as many blogs as you desire, either via Google Friend Connect or <a href="http://www.linkyfollowers.com/" target="_blank">Linky Followers</a>, preferably starting first with the one who linked before you and after you, before branching out, and let them know by leaving a comment. (Following me will be very much appreciated, and I definitely follow back. Just let me know you're following.)<br /> <br /> Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated :) It will help you remember to come back and link up to the the happiest blog party on the block (ahem!). It will also help others find their way to the party which we all love because the more the merrier :)<br /> <br /> Link opens up every Sunday at 5:00 pm, PST and ends Friday at 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" name="code-source" rows="3">&lt;center&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/center&gt;</textarea></center><br /> Friends, go ahead and get to know each :) One followed blogger is one gained friend. And please, don't forget to join my Market Your Biz and Giveaways blog party every Tuesday at 5 pm, PST. It's your chance for free promotion of your family-friendly business and giveaways.<br /> <br /> Now, let's party like no other!<br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id=wpImg149647><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=149647"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=149647"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=149647"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --> <br /> <i><span>Burning question: </span></i>How do you <strike>trick</strike> encourage your children to eat right? If Princess Two could have her way, she will be contented eating hotdog or Campbell's chicken noodle soup with rice. But of course, that's not the kind of sustenance that's approved by her pediatrician so I had to resort to some stories and other tactics. On some weekends, we may make Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, Goofy pancakes so she will eat (nothing fancy, we just name the pancake as such). This morning, we ended up making Peppa Pig and Little George pancakes with little doggies as noses and chocolate syrup for eyes and mouth. How about you? What are your proven and tested methods to make your kids eat healthy?<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div> '); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'> <a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div> </center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-8758318681062672110?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/04/creative-bloggers-party-hop-57.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-2095607117262535937Sat, 28 Apr 2012 20:30:00 +00002012-04-28T13:30:43.469-07:00blog feature<br /> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> It's another great weekend to celebrate, my dear friends! I am about to share you another set of ideas and crafts from this week's Creative Bloggers' Party Hop.</div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> Kathryn of <a href="http://thededicatedhouse.blogspot.com/2012/04/more-color-in-garden.html" target="_blank">The Dedicated House</a> takes you into her colorful garden with many beautiful pictures of her flowering plants.</div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0j8so1QF-sY/T5jL48qFgrI/AAAAAAAAAns/6C7d3Xymg0M/s1600/garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0j8so1QF-sY/T5jL48qFgrI/AAAAAAAAAns/6C7d3Xymg0M/s640/garden.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> Sarah of <a href="http://alderberryhill.blogspot.ca/2012/04/odd-uses-for-everyday-things-in-your.html" target="_blank">Alderberry Hill</a> shares her ideas on other purposes of seven household products such as using vanilla extract to deodorize refrigerators.</div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6QcyqGjOzbg/T5jNoPWXfhI/AAAAAAAAAn0/sTjn5N8JMhM/s1600/Vanilla.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6QcyqGjOzbg/T5jNoPWXfhI/AAAAAAAAAn0/sTjn5N8JMhM/s400/Vanilla.png" width="277" /></a> </div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> &nbsp;Lisa of <a href="http://condo-blues.blogspot.com/2012/04/9-sneaky-green-ways-to-save-money.html" target="_blank">Condo Blues</a> gives nine interesting tips to help save money at home.</div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yH6JQZLloP8/T5jQcs5chaI/AAAAAAAAAoA/XD5SEit1uqw/s1600/NineSneakyGreenWaystoSaveMoney.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yH6JQZLloP8/T5jQcs5chaI/AAAAAAAAAoA/XD5SEit1uqw/s400/NineSneakyGreenWaystoSaveMoney.webp" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> Ann of <a href="http://onceuponafirefly.blogspot.com/2012/04/re-5-tips-to-add-sparkle-and-shine.html" target="_blank">Once Upon a Firefly</a> shares her 5 easy tips to make your vintage objects sparkle and shine.&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7EO9epka1Vo/T5jTmbV4bVI/AAAAAAAAAoM/B4OZz6lND90/s1600/glassware.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="600" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7EO9epka1Vo/T5jTmbV4bVI/AAAAAAAAAoM/B4OZz6lND90/s640/glassware.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> Katie of <a href="http://ktdlzll.blogspot.ca/2012/04/ice-ice-baby.html" target="_blank">The Inspired Life</a> gives her tip of watering plants inside the house by just placing an ice. Ice melts slowly so your plants won't be drowned and that you won't need to put plates underneath the holes of your pots.</div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bmVtqHrStW0/T5jYSdI1huI/AAAAAAAAAog/jeYA6j7YDfE/s1600/iceonpot.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bmVtqHrStW0/T5jYSdI1huI/AAAAAAAAAog/jeYA6j7YDfE/s400/iceonpot.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> Brighten your morning with this suncatcher vase by D of <a href="http://theshadyporch.blogspot.com/2012/04/suncatcher-vase-earth-day-challenge.html" target="_blank">The Shady Porch</a>.</div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VhJYMyi2n4o/T5jY0pPassI/AAAAAAAAAoo/aYNc9Ds_5jM/s1600/suncatcher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VhJYMyi2n4o/T5jY0pPassI/AAAAAAAAAoo/aYNc9Ds_5jM/s640/suncatcher.jpg" width="442" /></a></div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> </div> <br /> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> Hope you enjoyed and learned many ideas from my latest features. Thank you very much for sharing and linking up.</div> <br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png" /></center><br /> <br /> <br /> <center><center><script type="text/javascript"> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"> </div> '); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style="width: 300px;"> <a href="http://crowdignite.com/account/1283" target="_blank">Get more Traffic</a></div> </center></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-2095607117262535937?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/04/cbph-56-features.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Creative DIYers Club)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-5941011485299792745Tue, 24 Apr 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-04-24T16:45:00.048-07:00Happy Tuesday, my dear friends! Come on in and link up your family-friendly online businesses and giveaways. It has been long said that businesses are the lifeblood of the economy. Not only that, businesses really fuel the economy. This blog party, solely dedicated to promoting businesses and giveaways, is my way of giving back to the community so welcome to <b>Market Your Biz & Giveaways</b>!<br /> <br /> Gina (who, by the way, already guest posted in my <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/09/blogging-for-dollars-series-guest-post_15.html">Blogging for Dollars Series</a>) from the <a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/">Shabby Creek Cottage</a> said it best, "You may not get a sale directly from that site every single day – but you are building brand recognition. Pepsi does not advertise so that you stop what you’re doing and go directly to buy a drink – but when you do need to quench your thirst and you are shopping for a drink, Pepsi is going to be recognizable to you. Bottom line, you need to build your brand!" This blog party helps you accomplish build your brand.<br /> <br /> Business owners, we wanna see your products. Giveaways are good because they create a buzz about your business. Giveaway hosts, we wanna join! Readers, here's your chance to win fabulous freebies. So come on in and participate in this virtual marketplace. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Our Party</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> NO RULES! Just link up your etsy and/or family-friendly business, browse other businesses before you and after you. It's a great way to network with other business owners. For the giveaways, same thing. Just link up your giveaways and join the other giveaways that catch your eye. If you have a creative post and you want to increase your followers, the appropriate blog party for that is called <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/07/creative-bloggers-party-hop-070311-made.html">Creative Bloggers' Party & Hop</a>.<br /> <br /> Link opens every Tuesday, 5:00 pm, PST and ends Saturday, 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> Here's the party button. Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated! For one, it will help you to remember to come back here next week. Secondly, we want to spread the word about businesses and giveaways so many can join in. Mentioning it on Twitter and Facebook will also make you totally awesome :)<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" height="175" width="175"/><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" rows="3" name="code-source"><center><a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" /></a></center></textarea></center><br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">MYBG Inspiring Comments</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> <blockquote>"Thanks for hosting. Linkys for biz and giveaways are far and few; your linky has helped me reach to people saying that Adithis Amma Sews has launched Custom Made Kids Clothing and 2 Skirts are already on sale!"<br /> <a href="http://www.adithisammasews.com/" target="_blank">Creative Mama</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you so much for hosting. I've made a recent sale and believe it is from your blog party! Thanks again!"<br /> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/elisabethdavis" target="_blank">Elisabeth Davis</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you for hosting this every week. I have noticed that I do generate a lot of hits from your site and I really appreciate a place that I can find other etsy shops that I might not have seen otherwise. So thank you again."<br /> <a href="http://asouthernladysramblings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kate</a><br /> <br /> "I cannot tell you how much I agree with everything Gina said!! So true to the word! Also, a huge thank you to you for hosting. Ever since I started marketing my shop here I have had several sales and I believe that they came redirected from your blog! Thank you again and God bless!!" <br /> <a href="http://thelittletreasures.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Maya</a><br /> <br /> "Thanks for hosting! Decent linky parties for giveaways and businesses don't seem to exist! So I appreciate this."<br /> <a href="http://designpardeux.com/" target="_blank">Kahli</a><br /> </blockquote>Friends, network, buy if you must, join the giveaways, and have fun!<br /> <br /> PS: I'm not a blog police but in the name of order and organization, you'll be my bloggy BFF if you link up in the appropriate links :D Please note that there are two links. Here's the link for your businesses. There's a second link below specifically for giveaways so how about linking up your giveaways in there? Besides, it's easier to find and join your giveaways if they're in the appropriate link. If you accidentally linked up in the wrong spot, don't fret. Just click the red x before your link to delete it, then link up in the correct spot. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Family-friendly Businesses Here</FONT></i></b><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id=wpImg148359><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=148359"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=148359"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=148359"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Giveaways Here</FONT></i></b><br /> To bring maximum exposure for your giveaways, I'm collaborating with Brynn from MommyDigger so please feel free to link up your giveaways, too, in her party every Wednesday.<br /> <center><a href="http://www.mommydigger.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mommydigger.com/MommyDigging-Giveaway-Blog-Hop.png" target="_blank" border="0"/></a></center><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id=wpImg148360><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=148360"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=148360"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=148360"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --><br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-5941011485299792745?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/04/market-your-biz-and-giveaways-46.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-1826801856840235472Sun, 22 Apr 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-04-22T16:45:00.316-07:00Welcome to our Creative Bloggers' Party & Hop, my dear friends! I hope that you all are having a fabulous week.<br /> <br /> Princess Two is about to enter Kindergarten this fall and I still don't feel she's equipped to get there. It's amazing how two kids coming from the same pool of genes could be so totally opposite of each other. At 3, Princess One was already doing chicken scratches of her name and was already a master in writing both her first and last name when she entered Kinder. With Princess Two, I tried all tricks - bribery (I'll buy you your own DSI if you write your name), threat (You can't have ice cream if you don't write your name), pleas (Can you please write your name?) - all to no avail. In Princess Two's defense, instead of writing, she prefers to type her name and spell complicated words in the computer. Typing words like strawberry, astronaut, dolphin, quarter, etc, is her cup of tea. If I want her to keep quiet at Church, I'll just give her my iPhone and let her type to her heart's content. However, in her pre-school class, the standards as outlined by her teacher included developing fine-motor skills which should be evidenced by being able to write her name and draw straight lines. Princess Two is totally resisting doing those. I guess this summer when school is over, she will have a lot of catching up with writing. What have you done to encourage your preschooler to write?<br /> <br /> <i><span>Favorite Blog</span></i><br /> You clicked, inlinkz tallied. The readers' favorite blog post this past week, being the most viewed post, is <a href="http://ablossominglife.blogspot.com/2012/04/ditching-shampoo-and-conditioner.html" target="_blank"> Ditching Your Shampoo and Conditioner</a> by A Blossoming Life. If you're into going all natural, this is a must-read post.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hXvAovWjX1I/T4ntbW78JvI/AAAAAAAAAVI/jC69ApgODYw/s320/DSCI0381.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hXvAovWjX1I/T4ntbW78JvI/AAAAAAAAAVI/jC69ApgODYw/s320/DSCI0381.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <i><span>Our Party</span></i><br /> To the main course of this post. <br /> For those of you joining us for the first time, we only have 2 easy, simple rules:<br /> <br /> 1) Link up your creative post - can be a DIY project, decor, photography, crafts, recipes, poem, thrift finds, link party, or that informative syndicated post that can make us laugh, or cry - in short, whatever you're proud of! And if you like to link more creative posts, go for it! We'd love to see them :) (No links to businesses or giveaways. We have another party for these exclusively every Tuesday called Market Your Biz &amp; Giveaways at 5 pm, PST.)<br /> <br /> 2) Follow as many blogs as you desire, either via Google Friend Connect or <a href="http://www.linkyfollowers.com/" target="_blank">Linky Followers</a>, preferably starting first with the one who linked before you and after you, before branching out, and let them know by leaving a comment. (Following me will be very much appreciated, and I definitely follow back. Just let me know you're following.)<br /> <br /> Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated :) It will help you remember to come back and link up to the the happiest blog party on the block (ahem!). It will also help others find their way to the party which we all love because the more the merrier :)<br /> <br /> Link opens up every Sunday at 5:00 pm, PST and ends Friday at 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" name="code-source" rows="3">&lt;center&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/center&gt;</textarea></center><br /> Friends, go ahead and get to know each :) One followed blogger is one gained friend. And please, don't forget to join my Market Your Biz and Giveaways blog party every Tuesday at 5 pm, PST. It's your chance for free promotion of your family-friendly business and giveaways.<br /> <br /> Now, let's party like no other!<br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <div id=wpImg147604><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=147604"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=147604"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=147604"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --> <br /> <i><span>Burning question: </span></i>Any suggestion so I can encourage Princess Two to write? <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-1826801856840235472?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/04/creative-bloggers-party-hop-56.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-5045058228197444026Sat, 21 Apr 2012 02:22:00 +00002012-04-20T19:26:49.676-07:00blog featureHappy weekend, dear bloggers! I am showing you another set of the most adorable crafts from this week's Creative Bloggers' Party Hop.<br/><br/> Host an ice cream party to your lovely birthday kid. Visit Holly's blog, <a href="http://lifeasathrifter.blogspot.com/2012/04/rosss-ice-cream-party.html" target="_blank">Life as a Thrifter</a>, and see how she presented a colorful and yummy ice cream party ambiance.<br/><br/> <center><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r3AnWB_gEqE/T4z15IwBjVI/AAAAAAAAAm0/JdP8JIQ_YsI/s1600/icecreamparty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r3AnWB_gEqE/T4z15IwBjVI/AAAAAAAAAm0/JdP8JIQ_YsI/s640/icecreamparty.jpg" width="640" /></a></center><br/> Here's a bizarre medical party idea of setting up a dessert table. Sahm of <a href="http://www.vixenmade.com/2012/04/medical-party.html" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" target="_blank">Vixen Made</a> prepared this candy table for a 50th birthday party.<br/><br /> <center><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JctbXHkcpq4/T4z6gwilV7I/AAAAAAAAAm8/LyELdNWZ7eE/s1600/medicalparty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="520" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JctbXHkcpq4/T4z6gwilV7I/AAAAAAAAAm8/LyELdNWZ7eE/s640/medicalparty.jpg" width="640" /></a></center><br/> Margo of <a href="http://www.joyfulhomemaking.com/2012/04/kitchen-organizing.html" target="_blank">Joyful Homemaking</a> shares her helpful kitchen organizing tips, from arranging refrigerated products, to key holders and message boards.<br/><br /> <center><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Itj62vs9HKE/T4z88nxGU7I/AAAAAAAAAnE/7lXi0XGCNAg/s1600/kitchenorganizing.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Itj62vs9HKE/T4z88nxGU7I/AAAAAAAAAnE/7lXi0XGCNAg/s640/kitchenorganizing.JPG" width="640" /></a></center><br/> In addition to organizing tips, Jessica of <a href="http://www.joyfulhomemaking.com/2012/04/kitchen-organizing.html" target="_blank">The Thriftiness Miss</a> shares 7 of her interesting housekeeping ideas.<br/><br /> <center><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pUtTgYbQczs/T4z_KOZ5kPI/AAAAAAAAAnM/MvuS8a76XWc/s1600/housekeepingtips.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="588" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pUtTgYbQczs/T4z_KOZ5kPI/AAAAAAAAAnM/MvuS8a76XWc/s640/housekeepingtips.png" width="640" /></a></center><br/> Sarah of <a href="http://alderberryhill.blogspot.ca/2012/04/charming-pillow.html" target="_blank">Alderberry Hill</a> shares her charming pillow made from pieces of fabric squares.<br/><br /> <center><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--PkB68EuoBE/T40ENuwYMmI/AAAAAAAAAnU/QRjGtzRNeZ4/s1600/pillows.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--PkB68EuoBE/T40ENuwYMmI/AAAAAAAAAnU/QRjGtzRNeZ4/s640/pillows.JPG" width="640" /></a></center><br/> Heather of <a href="http://settingforfour.blogspot.ca/2012/04/diy-birdcage-art.html" target="_blank">Setting for Four</a> gives us a quick peek of her chirping birdcage art.<br/><br /> <center><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VEY6epg2aQE/T40FbPkR8QI/AAAAAAAAAnc/njOWmvln2P4/s1600/birdcageart.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VEY6epg2aQE/T40FbPkR8QI/AAAAAAAAAnc/njOWmvln2P4/s640/birdcageart.JPG" width="426" /></a></center><br/> Mooloolaba is a breath-taking seaside destination that truly captures my heart. <a href="http://www.natashainoz.com/2012/04/beach-therapy.html" target="_blank">Natasha in Oz</a> takes you to the romantic place through a lot of beach photos.<br/><br /> <center><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Yu-fdBfNZY/T40HMGJ_kqI/AAAAAAAAAnk/y-T8r8D8Vw4/s1600/beachtherapy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Yu-fdBfNZY/T40HMGJ_kqI/AAAAAAAAAnk/y-T8r8D8Vw4/s640/beachtherapy.jpg" width="640" /></a></center><br/> Thank you very much for linking up and keep those good stuffs coming!<br/> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png" /></center><br /> <br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div> '); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'> <a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div> </center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-5045058228197444026?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/04/cbph-55-features.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Creative DIYers Club)5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-1931124675913092267Tue, 17 Apr 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-04-17T16:45:00.259-07:00Market Your Biz and GiveawaysHappy Tuesday, my dear friends! Come on in and link up your family-friendly online businesses and giveaways. It has been long said that businesses are the lifeblood of the economy. Not only that, businesses really fuel the economy. This blog party, solely dedicated to promoting businesses and giveaways, is my way of giving back to the community so welcome to <b>Market Your Biz & Giveaways</b>!<br /> <br /> Gina (who, by the way, already guest posted in my <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/09/blogging-for-dollars-series-guest-post_15.html">Blogging for Dollars Series</a>) from the <a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/">Shabby Creek Cottage</a> said it best, "You may not get a sale directly from that site every single day – but you are building brand recognition. Pepsi does not advertise so that you stop what you’re doing and go directly to buy a drink – but when you do need to quench your thirst and you are shopping for a drink, Pepsi is going to be recognizable to you. Bottom line, you need to build your brand!" This blog party helps you accomplish build your brand.<br /> <br /> Business owners, we wanna see your products. Giveaways are good because they create a buzz about your business. Giveaway hosts, we wanna join! Readers, here's your chance to win fabulous freebies. So come on in and participate in this virtual marketplace. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Featured Biz</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> Our featured biz today is <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/linenslaceandlattes?ref=si_shop">Linens, Lace, and Lattes</a>. Selling vintage linens, fancywork, lace and vintage sewing notions is her passion!. She loves buying these beautiful items and passing on to those who love them as much as she does! She is lucky enough to live in an area where there are many estate auctions so she can come home with boxes of 'rescued' linens and sewing notions most weekends. She saves those which she just can't part with and enjoy finding new homes for the rest. She would love to send some to your house! <br /> <br /> I'm totally smitten with this Tablecover with Pink and White Crochet Inserts and Pink Black Embroidery.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.319190166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="336" width="570" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.319190166.jpg" /></a></div><br /> This pair of Embroidered Southern Belle Hand Towels Pinks and Blues is a favorite of mine because both reminded me of my embroidery and cross-stitching days.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.328779594.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="428" width="570" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.328779594.jpg" /></a></div><br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Our Party</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> NO RULES! Just link up your etsy and/or family-friendly business, browse other businesses before you and after you. It's a great way to network with other business owners. For the giveaways, same thing. Just link up your giveaways and join the other giveaways that catch your eye. If you have a creative post and you want to increase your followers, the appropriate blog party for that is called <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/07/creative-bloggers-party-hop-070311-made.html">Creative Bloggers' Party & Hop</a>.<br /> <br /> Link opens every Tuesday, 5:00 pm, PST and ends Saturday, 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> Here's the party button. Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated! For one, it will help you to remember to come back here next week. Secondly, we want to spread the word about businesses and giveaways so many can join in. Mentioning it on Twitter and Facebook will also make you totally awesome :)<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" height="175" width="175"/><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" rows="3" name="code-source"><center><a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" /></a></center></textarea></center><br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">MYBG Inspiring Comments</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> <blockquote>"Thanks for hosting. Linkys for biz and giveaways are far and few; your linky has helped me reach to people saying that Adithis Amma Sews has launched Custom Made Kids Clothing and 2 Skirts are already on sale!"<br /> <a href="http://www.adithisammasews.com/" target="_blank">Creative Mama</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you so much for hosting. I've made a recent sale and believe it is from your blog party! Thanks again!"<br /> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/elisabethdavis" target="_blank">Elisabeth Davis</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you for hosting this every week. I have noticed that I do generate a lot of hits from your site and I really appreciate a place that I can find other etsy shops that I might not have seen otherwise. So thank you again."<br /> <a href="http://asouthernladysramblings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kate</a><br /> <br /> "I cannot tell you how much I agree with everything Gina said!! So true to the word! Also, a huge thank you to you for hosting. Ever since I started marketing my shop here I have had several sales and I believe that they came redirected from your blog! Thank you again and God bless!!" <br /> <a href="http://thelittletreasures.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Maya</a><br /> <br /> "Thanks for hosting! Decent linky parties for giveaways and businesses don't seem to exist! So I appreciate this."<br /> <a href="http://designpardeux.com/" target="_blank">Kahli</a><br /> </blockquote>Friends, network, buy if you must, join the giveaways, and have fun!<br /> <br /> PS: I'm not a blog police but in the name of order and organization, you'll be my bloggy BFF if you link up in the appropriate links :D Please note that there are two links. Here's the link for your businesses. There's a second link below specifically for giveaways so how about linking up your giveaways in there? Besides, it's easier to find and join your giveaways if they're in the appropriate link. If you accidentally linked up in the wrong spot, don't fret. Just click the red x before your link to delete it, then link up in the correct spot. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Family-friendly Businesses Here</FONT></i></b><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --><br /> <div id=wpImg146241><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=146241"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=146241"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=146241"></script><br /> <!-- end InLinkz script --><br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Giveaways Here</FONT></i></b><br /> To bring maximum exposure for your giveaways, I'm collaborating with Brynn from MommyDigger so please feel free to link up your giveaways, too, in her party every Wednesday.<br /> <center><a href="http://www.mommydigger.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mommydigger.com/MommyDigging-Giveaway-Blog-Hop.png" target="_blank" border="0"/></a></center><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --><br /> <div id=wpImg146243><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=146243"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=146243"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=146243"></script><br /> <!-- end InLinkz script --><br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-1931124675913092267?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/04/market-your-biz-giveaways-45.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-7164538059699171784Sun, 15 Apr 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-04-15T16:45:00.553-07:00Creative Bloggers' Party and HopHappy Sunday, my dear friends! How are you all doing? I hope that this week brings you great opportunities for creativity.<br /> <br /> It was my birthday yesterday and the whole clan celebrated it with me. Thank God I have a great family to celebrate it with. It was a laidback celebration, which is a nice break from my weekday fast-paced schedule. A few of you sent birthday greetings so THANK YOU! for doing so. Each of your greeting brought smile and sunshine on my special day. <br /> <br /> <i><span>Blog Tip</span></i><br /> Kim shows a tutorial so <a href="http://www.733blog.com/2010/05/how-to-make-sure-people-can-respond-via.html">people can respond to your comment via email</a>. If you're a new blogger, you might not be aware that this can be done so I highly recommend it.<br /> <br /> <i><span>Favorite Blog</span></i><br /> You clicked, inlinkz tallied. The readers' favorite blog post this past week, being the most viewed post, is Laurie's <a href="http://adoptioncreatesfamilies.blogspot.com/2012/03/have-you-noticed.html" target="_blank">Have You Noticed My Kids Are Black? </a>. Her cool blog is called Adoption Creates Families and she discussed head on the tricky topic of racism. It's a very touching topic and so worth reading.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-92ohEAPW-tw/T3CaieYCeaI/AAAAAAAAPl0/zKJ8M8XzTwU/s400/boys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-92ohEAPW-tw/T3CaieYCeaI/AAAAAAAAPl0/zKJ8M8XzTwU/s400/boys.jpg" /></a></div><br /> <i><span>Our Party</span></i><br /> To the main course of this post. <br /> For those of you joining us for the first time, we only have 2 easy, simple rules:<br /> <br /> 1) Link up your creative post - can be a DIY project, decor, photography, crafts, recipes, poem, thrift finds, link party, or that informative syndicated post that can make us laugh, or cry - in short, whatever you're proud of! And if you like to link more creative posts, go for it! We'd love to see them :) (No links to businesses or giveaways. We have another party for these exclusively every Tuesday called Market Your Biz &amp; Giveaways at 5 pm, PST.)<br /> <br /> 2) Follow as many blogs as you desire, either via Google Friend Connect or <a href="http://www.linkyfollowers.com/" target="_blank">Linky Followers</a>, preferably starting first with the one who linked before you and after you, before branching out, and let them know by leaving a comment. (Following me will be very much appreciated, and I definitely follow back. Just let me know you're following.)<br /> <br /> Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated :) It will help you remember to come back and link up to the the happiest blog party on the block (ahem!). It will also help others find their way to the party which we all love because the more the merrier :)<br /> <br /> Link opens up every Sunday at 5:00 pm, PST and ends Friday at 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" name="code-source" rows="3">&lt;center&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/center&gt;</textarea></center><br /> Friends, go ahead and get to know each :) One followed blogger is one gained friend. And please, don't forget to join my Market Your Biz and Giveaways blog party every Tuesday at 5 pm, PST. It's your chance for free promotion of your family-friendly business and giveaways.<br /> <br /> Now, let's party like no other!<br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --><br /> <div id=wpImg145595><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=145595"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=145595"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=145595"></script><br /> <!-- end InLinkz script --><br /> <br /> <i><span>Burning question: </span></i>How do you celebrate your birthday? With family and friends? Just by yourself? Or no celebration at all? <br /> Answer: I never had a birthday cake nor birthday balloon when I was growing up, partly because I lived in a different culture and partly because we were so poor then. I started having celebration with friends when I was already in my 20s and working at a company. When I married my husband, I discovered how BIG he is on birthdays so it took me some getting used to having birthday parties. Now, we make it a point to celebrate everybody's birthdays with the whole clan. How about you? Please do share.<br /> <br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-7164538059699171784?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/04/creative-bloggers-party-hop-55.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-7726332189317200026Sat, 14 Apr 2012 16:19:00 +00002012-04-25T19:26:54.867-07:00blog feature<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> Hi again bloggers! I thank God for this very special day. Today marks the beginning of another wonderful year in my life. I would like to express how grateful I am for all of your greetings. As for the best blogs this week, here is another list of my picks for this week's Creative Bloggers' Party Hop. Enjoy!</div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> <br /></div> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> Find out five fabulous shell decorating ideas which are shared by Betsy of <a href="http://coastal-colors.blogspot.com/2012/04/fun-shell-craftsideasdecorating.html" target="_blank">Coastal Colors</a>.&nbsp;</div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lQasLmUafj4/T4kKtEtFvwI/AAAAAAAAAlM/hNtkC16vtaw/s1600/shellcrafts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lQasLmUafj4/T4kKtEtFvwI/AAAAAAAAAlM/hNtkC16vtaw/s640/shellcrafts.jpg" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> Refresh your eyes with these pictures of colorful roses by Donata in her blog, <a href="http://donatascrafts.blogspot.com.au/2012/04/happy-easter-roses-for-you.html" target="_blank">DK's Craft Cafe</a>.</div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AKy-QDW4txU/T4kNMPtJ7GI/AAAAAAAAAlU/9CjeJmhtHek/s1600/roses.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AKy-QDW4txU/T4kNMPtJ7GI/AAAAAAAAAlU/9CjeJmhtHek/s640/roses.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> Discover Melbourne as Carolyn takes you into a tour of many pictures in her blog, <a href="http://www.desireempire.com/2012/04/melbourne-travel-like-local.html" target="_blank">Desire Empire</a>.</div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HqXo2odCa_o/T4kOVdAW3DI/AAAAAAAAAlc/TdQYVaujZWw/s1600/melbourne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HqXo2odCa_o/T4kOVdAW3DI/AAAAAAAAAlc/TdQYVaujZWw/s640/melbourne.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> Here is an affordable and natural way to have a fragrant fabric softener by Amy of <a href="http://www.desireempire.com/2012/04/melbourne-travel-like-local.html" target="_blank">A Blossoming Life</a>.</div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i3fxxLRKbtg/T4kO_qNZVYI/AAAAAAAAAlk/HVLKi440rvM/s1600/fabricsoftener.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i3fxxLRKbtg/T4kO_qNZVYI/AAAAAAAAAlk/HVLKi440rvM/s640/fabricsoftener.jpg" width="478" /></a></div> <br /> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-family: &quot;Arial&quot;, &quot;Helvetica&quot;, sans-serif;">Love flip flops? Jessica of </span><a href="http://thethriftinessmiss.blogspot.com/2012/04/flip-flops.html" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;" target="_blank">The Thriftiness Miss</a><span style="font-family: &quot;Arial&quot;, &quot;Helvetica&quot;, sans-serif;"> shares her handmade flip flops with straps made from some cut pieces of a dress. </span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4gohyc6qv9w/T4kQzDlAV1I/AAAAAAAAAls/W7k8uX8ejNI/s1600/flipflop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4gohyc6qv9w/T4kQzDlAV1I/AAAAAAAAAls/W7k8uX8ejNI/s640/flipflop.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> <div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> Let's eat Nemo! Treat your kids with these yummy clown fish cookies by Julie of <a href="http://whitelightsonwednesday.blogspot.com/2012/04/clown-fish-cookies.html" target="_blank">White Lights on Wednesday.</a></div> <br /> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Osf7IBvc3VI/T4kS-v5nOVI/AAAAAAAAAl0/Gc6Z9zB_zEg/s1600/cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="382" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Osf7IBvc3VI/T4kS-v5nOVI/AAAAAAAAAl0/Gc6Z9zB_zEg/s640/cookies.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: &quot;Arial&quot;, &quot;Helvetica&quot;, sans-serif;">Thank you very much for linking up and showing off your creative ideas.</span><br /> <br /> <br /> <center>&nbsp;</center><center>&nbsp;</center><center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png" /></center><br /> <br /> <br /> <center><script type="text/javascript"> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"> </div> '); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style="width: 300px;"> <a href="http://crowdignite.com/account/1283" target="_blank">Get more Traffic</a></div> </center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-7726332189317200026?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/04/cbph-54-features.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Creative DIYers Club)7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-8102216611989404688Tue, 10 Apr 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-04-11T18:02:35.299-07:00Market Your Biz and GiveawaysHappy Tuesday, my dear friends! Come on in and link up your family-friendly online businesses and giveaways. It has been long said that businesses are the lifeblood of the economy. Not only that, businesses really fuel the economy. This blog party, solely dedicated to promoting businesses and giveaways, is my way of giving back to the community so welcome to <b>Market Your Biz & Giveaways</b>!<br /> <br /> Gina (who, by the way, already guest posted in my <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/09/blogging-for-dollars-series-guest-post_15.html">Blogging for Dollars Series</a>) from the <a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/">Shabby Creek Cottage</a> said it best, "You may not get a sale directly from that site every single day – but you are building brand recognition. Pepsi does not advertise so that you stop what you’re doing and go directly to buy a drink – but when you do need to quench your thirst and you are shopping for a drink, Pepsi is going to be recognizable to you. Bottom line, you need to build your brand!" This blog party helps you accomplish build your brand.<br /> <br /> Business owners, we wanna see your products. Giveaways are good because they create a buzz about your business. Giveaway hosts, we wanna join! Readers, here's your chance to win fabulous freebies. So come on in and participate in this virtual marketplace. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Featured Biz</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> Our featured biz today is <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/CAPrimlover" target="_blank">Saltbox House</a>, a business specializing in collonial signs and woodwork.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img2.etsystatic.com/000/0/0/iusb_760x100.8608782.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="90" width="600" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/000/0/0/iusb_760x100.8608782.jpg" /></a></div><br /> Seeing this sign made me smile because it brought back memories when this would have been so helpful to me. <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.304606210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="428" width="570" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.304606210.jpg" /></a></div>(Please Do Not Ring Doorbell, Baby Sleeping Wood Primitive Door Sign)<br /> <br /> How about this inspiring thought? These are just two of my favorites in her shop.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.301521643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="760" width="570" src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.301521643.jpg" /></a></div>(God Helps Us Handle What We Are Given Wood Primitive Sign Christian Wall Hanging)<br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Our Party</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> NO RULES! Just link up your etsy and/or family-friendly business, browse other businesses before you and after you. It's a great way to network with other business owners. For the giveaways, same thing. Just link up your giveaways and join the other giveaways that catch your eye. If you have a creative post and you want to increase your followers, the appropriate blog party for that is called <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/07/creative-bloggers-party-hop-070311-made.html">Creative Bloggers' Party & Hop</a>.<br /> <br /> Link opens every Tuesday, 5:00 pm, PST and ends Saturday, 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> Here's the party button. Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated! For one, it will help you to remember to come back here next week. Secondly, we want to spread the word about businesses and giveaways so many can join in. Mentioning it on Twitter and Facebook will also make you totally awesome :)<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" height="175" width="175"/><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" rows="3" name="code-source"><center><a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" /></a></center></textarea></center><br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">MYBG Inspiring Comments</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> <blockquote>"Thanks for hosting. Linkys for biz and giveaways are far and few; your linky has helped me reach to people saying that Adithis Amma Sews has launched Custom Made Kids Clothing and 2 Skirts are already on sale!"<br /> <a href="http://www.adithisammasews.com/" target="_blank">Creative Mama</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you so much for hosting. I've made a recent sale and believe it is from your blog party! Thanks again!"<br /> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/elisabethdavis" target="_blank">Elisabeth Davis</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you for hosting this every week. I have noticed that I do generate a lot of hits from your site and I really appreciate a place that I can find other etsy shops that I might not have seen otherwise. So thank you again."<br /> <a href="http://asouthernladysramblings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kate</a><br /> <br /> "I cannot tell you how much I agree with everything Gina said!! So true to the word! Also, a huge thank you to you for hosting. Ever since I started marketing my shop here I have had several sales and I believe that they came redirected from your blog! Thank you again and God bless!!" <br /> <a href="http://thelittletreasures.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Maya</a><br /> <br /> "Thanks for hosting! Decent linky parties for giveaways and businesses don't seem to exist! So I appreciate this."<br /> <a href="http://designpardeux.com/" target="_blank">Kahli</a><br /> </blockquote>Friends, network, buy if you must, join the giveaways, and have fun!<br /> <br /> PS: I'm not a blog police but in the name of order and organization, you'll be my bloggy BFF if you link up in the appropriate links :D Please note that there are two links. Here's the link for your businesses. There's a second link below specifically for giveaways so how about linking up your giveaways in there? Besides, it's easier to find and join your giveaways if they're in the appropriate link. If you accidentally linked up in the wrong spot, don't fret. Just click the red x before your link to delete it, then link up in the correct spot. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Family-friendly Businesses Here</FONT></i></b><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --><br /> <div id=wpImg144142><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=144142"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=144142"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=144142"></script><br /> <!-- end InLinkz script --><br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Giveaways Here</FONT></i></b><br /> To bring maximum exposure for your giveaways, I'm collaborating with Brynn from MommyDigger so please feel free to link up your giveaways, too, in her party every Wednesday.<br /> <center><a href="http://www.mommydigger.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mommydigger.com/MommyDigging-Giveaway-Blog-Hop.png" target="_blank" border="0"/></a></center><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --><br /> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=144143"></script><br /> <!-- end InLinkz script --><br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"> </div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-8102216611989404688?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/04/market-your-biz-giveaways-44.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-2963916325827833192Sun, 08 Apr 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-04-08T16:45:00.050-07:00Creative Bloggers' Party and HopBefore I tell you a story, let me greet everyone a Happy Easter! Thank you for being here.<br /> <br /> I can finally share with you Princess One's epic journey of being a flute player in her band. She got 3rd chair in her school band this February. Her basking in the flute's-3rd-chair glory came to an abrupt end when the 4th chair flute player challenged her. As a rule in her band, the lower chair can challenge the upper chair and they have a week to practice whatever musical piece the challenger wants to play. They would then square off during their band practice after a week and the music teacher will judge who played the piece better. The one who challenged her was the originally the 5th chair this February (she was the 1st chair last school year) and we'll call her C, who eventually challenged the 4th chair, and we'll call her M. The original 4th chair, M, refused to square off and as a rule, because she refused, she then got demoted to 5th chair without a fight and the challenger automatically became the 4th chair, and that's C. Now that C reached 4th chair, she then challenged Princess One for the 3rd chair. The piece was Surf in USA and Princess One was grinning from ear to ear when both of them tied. Then came the second square off and they had to play the Rainbow Connection, this time, she dislodged Princess One from her 3rd chair seat. When she was about to challenge C again for the 3rd chair, Princess One overheard C challenging the 2nd chair already and then, the 5th chair, M, challenged her in return. I agree with what their music teacher said, "Being challenged will help you become a better flute player." To cut the story short, last Tuesday, Princess One was bumped to the 5th chair and I could truly see the frustration and disappointment by the way she kept on playing the music piece over and over again. She couldn't get past the shock that she was bumped to 5th chair. This was one of those moments when as a mother, I just had to let my daughter experience the pain (because it's part of her growth), and be there to give moral support. Life is full of challenges and sometimes, we don't get the things we want, so I had to explain that to her. That probably, there's something better for her in the future, and she needs to persevere (and practice a lot) if she wants to have a higher chair in flute. At that moment, I had to help her cope with the disappointment for not meeting her goal, and what better way to do it than a Ben and Jerry's Chocolate Fudge Brownie ice cream? I didn't need the extra calories then, but it sure boosted Princess One's spirit. How about you? What do you do to cope up with disappointments?<br /> <br /> <i><span>Blog Tip</span></i><br /> <a href="http://muralmaker1.blogspot.com/2012/03/want-more-google-followers.html">Do you want more google+ followers?</a> Then head on to Colleen from Mural Maker for the deets.<br /> <br /> <i><span>Favorite Blog</span></i><br /> You clicked, inlinkz tallied. The readers' favorite blog post this past week, being the most viewed post, is Allison's <a href="http://cozyhomeinteriors.blogspot.com/2012/02/refurb-projects.html" target="_blank">refurb projects</a> from Cozy Home Interiors. The transformations are amazing!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qb8ECZciKXE/Tzm-DUOoXYI/AAAAAAAAAfE/JcZReDT4Cho/s640/IMG_3488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="640" width="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qb8ECZciKXE/Tzm-DUOoXYI/AAAAAAAAAfE/JcZReDT4Cho/s640/IMG_3488.JPG" /></a></div><br /> <i><span>Our Party</span></i><br /> To the main course of this post. <br /> For those of you joining us for the first time, we only have 2 easy, simple rules:<br /> <br /> 1) Link up your creative post - can be a DIY project, decor, photography, crafts, recipes, poem, thrift finds, link party, or that informative syndicated post that can make us laugh, or cry - in short, whatever you're proud of! And if you like to link more creative posts, go for it! We'd love to see them :) (No links to businesses or giveaways. We have another party for these exclusively every Tuesday called Market Your Biz &amp; Giveaways at 5 pm, PST.)<br /> <br /> 2) Follow as many blogs as you desire, either via Google Friend Connect or <a href="http://www.linkyfollowers.com/" target="_blank">Linky Followers</a>, preferably starting first with the one who linked before you and after you, before branching out, and let them know by leaving a comment. (Following me will be very much appreciated, and I definitely follow back. Just let me know you're following.)<br /> <br /> Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated :) It will help you remember to come back and link up to the the happiest blog party on the block (ahem!). It will also help others find their way to the party which we all love because the more the merrier :)<br /> <br /> Link opens up every Sunday at 5:00 pm, PST and ends Friday at 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" name="code-source" rows="3">&lt;center&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/center&gt;</textarea></center><br /> Friends, go ahead and get to know each :) One followed blogger is one gained friend. And please, don't forget to join my Market Your Biz and Giveaways blog party every Tuesday at 5 pm, PST. It's your chance for free promotion of your family-friendly business and giveaways.<br /> <br /> Now, let's party like no other!<br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --><br /> <div id=wpImg143586><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=143586"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=143586"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=143586"></script><br /> <!-- end InLinkz script --><br /> <br /> <i><span>Burning question: </span></i>How do you cope up with disappointments? As for me during my younger years, I used to eat lots of chocolates. Now that I'm older (and hoping, wiser) with kids, an occasional ice cream here and there would do the trick. How about you?<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"> </div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-2963916325827833192?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/04/creative-bloggers-party-hop-54.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-8065082173707094738Sun, 08 Apr 2012 05:07:00 +00002012-04-07T22:26:20.341-07:00blog featureHappy weekend, dear friends! The season of spring is already here. What are your plans, by the way? Well, let me give you helpful decorating tips and other fabulous finds shared by our beloved linkers in the Creative Bloggers' Party Hop.<br /> <br /> Justin and Cassity of <a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/2012/03/spring-decor-inspiration-from-mother-nature/" target="_blank">Remodelaholic</a> share some of the thrifty ways to enjoy the benefits of flowers in your home. <br /> <br /> <center><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ztOtgnA2Dm0/T31_zIwkWRI/AAAAAAAAAi0/QE6BZ40dYkU/s1600/springdecors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ztOtgnA2Dm0/T31_zIwkWRI/AAAAAAAAAi0/QE6BZ40dYkU/s640/springdecors.jpg" width="640" /></a></center><br /> <br /> Relive the happy memories through canvas photos as shared by Jess of <a href="http://www.balancingthedream.blogspot.com/2012/03/canvas-photo.html" target="_blank">Balancing the Dream</a>.<br /> <br /> <center><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LB-WmAIndoM/T32DME8cFfI/AAAAAAAAAi8/5WofH196OvM/s1600/canvas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LB-WmAIndoM/T32DME8cFfI/AAAAAAAAAi8/5WofH196OvM/s640/canvas.jpg" width="600" /></a></center><br /> <br /> Check out this lovely Spring centerpiece tutorial in <a href="http://www.ladybehindthecurtain.com/?p=26790" target="_blank">Lady Behind the Curtain</a>.<br /> <br /> <center><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D7dqqp6RJtM/T32ECkRihzI/AAAAAAAAAjE/S3NtcsTmSOQ/s1600/springdecors2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D7dqqp6RJtM/T32ECkRihzI/AAAAAAAAAjE/S3NtcsTmSOQ/s640/springdecors2.jpg" width="640" /></a></center><br /> <br /> You might wanna collect cute miniature book jewelries. Mindie of <a href="http://www.bacontimewiththehungryhypo.blogspot.com/2012/03/addicted-to-miniatures-and-whats-your.html" target="_blank">Bacon Time with the Hungry Hypo</a> shares her tiny creations. <br /> <br /> <center><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2nCq_kZSmes/T32Feqmj1eI/AAAAAAAAAjM/SYgZorb5tas/s1600/miniatures.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2nCq_kZSmes/T32Feqmj1eI/AAAAAAAAAjM/SYgZorb5tas/s400/miniatures.jpg" width="400" /></a></center><br /> <br /> Satisfy your taste buds with these yummy no-bake cookies by D of <a href="http://theshadyporch.blogspot.com/2012/03/easy-no-bake-cookie.html" target="_blank">The Shady Porch</a>.<br /> <br /> <center><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6dMiwUIedS0/T32G3h8mipI/AAAAAAAAAjU/tUWMXM0Gu9o/s1600/no-bake-cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6dMiwUIedS0/T32G3h8mipI/AAAAAAAAAjU/tUWMXM0Gu9o/s400/no-bake-cookies.jpg" width="400" /></a></center><br /> <br /> Jackie of <a href="http://www.saltboxhouse5.com/2012/04/rice-krispy-treat-birdie-nests-with.html" target="_blank">Saltbox House 5</a> shares her delicious Rice Krispies formed into birds nests and topped with colorful mini Robin egg candies.<br /> <br /> <center><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LSLwHIvejBs/T32IjXYtVqI/AAAAAAAAAjc/fZ96spU0798/s1600/ricekrispy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LSLwHIvejBs/T32IjXYtVqI/AAAAAAAAAjc/fZ96spU0798/s400/ricekrispy.JPG" width="400" /></a></center><br /> <br /> Another great recipe for Spring is this indulging Robin Eggs Malted Milkshake by Jenn of <a href="http://eatcakefordinner.blogspot.com/2012/03/robin-eggs-malted-milkshake.html" target="_blank">Eat Cake for Dinner</a>.<br /> <br /> <center><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E74juGJx3kQ/T32KGpnkk5I/AAAAAAAAAjk/mTuUuDDDC-Q/s1600/milkshake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E74juGJx3kQ/T32KGpnkk5I/AAAAAAAAAjk/mTuUuDDDC-Q/s640/milkshake.jpg" width="480" /></a></center><br /> <br /> Thank you very much for linking up your adorable posts.<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png" /></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"> </div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-8065082173707094738?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/04/cbph-53-features.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Creative DIYers Club)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-3795872798381555173Tue, 03 Apr 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-04-03T16:45:00.057-07:00Happy Tuesday, my dear friends! Come on in and link up your family-friendly online businesses and giveaways. It has been long said that businesses are the lifeblood of the economy. Not only that, businesses really fuel the economy. This blog party, solely dedicated to promoting businesses and giveaways, is my way of giving back to the community so welcome to <b>Market Your Biz & Giveaways</b>!<br /> <br /> Gina (who, by the way, already guest posted in my <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/09/blogging-for-dollars-series-guest-post_15.html">Blogging for Dollars Series</a>) from the <a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/">Shabby Creek Cottage</a> said it best, "You may not get a sale directly from that site every single day – but you are building brand recognition. Pepsi does not advertise so that you stop what you’re doing and go directly to buy a drink – but when you do need to quench your thirst and you are shopping for a drink, Pepsi is going to be recognizable to you. Bottom line, you need to build your brand!" This blog party helps you accomplish build your brand.<br /> <br /> Business owners, we wanna see your products. Giveaways are good because they create a buzz about your business. Giveaway hosts, we wanna join! Readers, here's your chance to win fabulous freebies. So come on in and participate in this virtual marketplace. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Featured Biz</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> Our featured biz today is <a href="http://newendstudio.storenvy.com/" target="_blank">New End Studio</a>.<br /> <br /> Here is her "I Love My Pup," a mixed media and collage style with 3D embellishments, metallic paints, watercolor paints, and papers. Colors are brownish, orangish, white, black, gold, and copper. <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/storenvy/product_photos/312119/LovePupNewEndStudioACEO72011_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="351" width="483" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/storenvy/product_photos/312119/LovePupNewEndStudioACEO72011_large.jpg" /></a></div><br /> This touching September 11, 2001, Ground Zero, 9/11/1, NYC is a one of a kind, collage aceo that focuses on September 11, 2001 in the financial district of New York City. It was a day of a powerful and sensitive subject, the day which is engraved upon the nation, the world, and on those most affected.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/storenvy/product_photos/270490/Remember_9.11.1_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="349" width="483" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/storenvy/product_photos/270490/Remember_9.11.1_large.jpg" /></a></div><br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Our Party</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> NO RULES! Just link up your etsy and/or family-friendly business, browse other businesses before you and after you. It's a great way to network with other business owners. For the giveaways, same thing. Just link up your giveaways and join the other giveaways that catch your eye. If you have a creative post and you want to increase your followers, the appropriate blog party for that is called <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/07/creative-bloggers-party-hop-070311-made.html">Creative Bloggers' Party & Hop</a>.<br /> <br /> Link opens every Tuesday, 5:00 pm, PST and ends Saturday, 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> Here's the party button. Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated! For one, it will help you to remember to come back here next week. Secondly, we want to spread the word about businesses and giveaways so many can join in. Mentioning it on Twitter and Facebook will also make you totally awesome :)<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" height="175" width="175"/><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" rows="3" name="code-source"><center><a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" /></a></center></textarea></center><br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">MYBG Inspiring Comments</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> <blockquote>"Thanks for hosting. Linkys for biz and giveaways are far and few; your linky has helped me reach to people saying that Adithis Amma Sews has launched Custom Made Kids Clothing and 2 Skirts are already on sale!"<br /> <a href="http://www.adithisammasews.com/" target="_blank">Creative Mama</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you so much for hosting. I've made a recent sale and believe it is from your blog party! Thanks again!"<br /> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/elisabethdavis" target="_blank">Elisabeth Davis</a><br /> <br /> "Thank you for hosting this every week. I have noticed that I do generate a lot of hits from your site and I really appreciate a place that I can find other etsy shops that I might not have seen otherwise. So thank you again."<br /> <a href="http://asouthernladysramblings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kate</a><br /> <br /> "I cannot tell you how much I agree with everything Gina said!! So true to the word! Also, a huge thank you to you for hosting. Ever since I started marketing my shop here I have had several sales and I believe that they came redirected from your blog! Thank you again and God bless!!" <br /> <a href="http://thelittletreasures.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Maya</a><br /> <br /> "Thanks for hosting! Decent linky parties for giveaways and businesses don't seem to exist! So I appreciate this."<br /> <a href="http://designpardeux.com/" target="_blank">Kahli</a><br /> </blockquote>Friends, network, buy if you must, join the giveaways, and have fun!<br /> <br /> PS: I'm not a blog police but in the name of order and organization, you'll be my bloggy BFF if you link up in the appropriate links :D Please note that there are two links. Here's the link for your businesses. There's a second link below specifically for giveaways so how about linking up your giveaways in there? Besides, it's easier to find and join your giveaways if they're in the appropriate link. If you accidentally linked up in the wrong spot, don't fret. Just click the red x before your link to delete it, then link up in the correct spot. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Family-friendly Businesses Here</FONT></i></b><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --><br /> <div id=wpImg142091><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=142091"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=142091"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=142091"></script><br /> <!-- end InLinkz script --><br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Giveaways Here</FONT></i></b><br /> To bring maximum exposure for your giveaways, I'm collaborating with Brynn from MommyDigger so please feel free to link up your giveaways, too, in her party every Wednesday.<br /> <center><a href="http://www.mommydigger.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mommydigger.com/MommyDigging-Giveaway-Blog-Hop.png" target="_blank" border="0"/></a></center><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --><br /> <div id=wpImg142092><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=142092"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=142092"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=142092"></script><br /> <!-- end InLinkz script --><br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-3795872798381555173?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/04/market-your-biz-giveaways-43.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-7210314628010628975Mon, 02 Apr 2012 18:59:00 +00002012-04-02T11:59:00.217-07:00guest postWhen it comes to home decorating tips, many of us tend to keep things fairly simple, either because we do not know how properly to go about decorating, or because we are afraid of the effort and expense of interior home improvements. However, with some careful thought and a bit of advice, you may find that home decorating can actually be simple, enjoyable, and effective – it’s all about finding the right way to apply your personal touch! Here are some home decorating tips that may help get you started on thinking about various rooms in your home. <br /> <br /> • In your kitchen and living spaces, install glass cabinets, instead of wooden ones. Not only is this considered stylish in and of itself, but it allows you to turn cabinet space into a display space where you can neatly arrange your glassware, etc. This can make your kitchen look simultaneously more chic and more organized. <br /> <br /> <br /> <center><div style='padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px'><a href='http://pinterest.com/pin/232498399483066333/' target='_blank'><img src='http://media-cache7.pinterest.com/upload/232498399483066333_rCu0ftuE_c.jpg' border='0' width='394' height ='640'/></a></div><div style='float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;'><p style='font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;'>Source: <a style='text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;' href='http://fortheloveofahouse.blogspot.com/2011/01/kitchen.html'>fortheloveofahouse.blogspot.com</a> via <a style='text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;' href='http://pinterest.com/homemakerondime/' target='_blank'>Homemaker</a> on <a style='text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;' href='http://pinterest.com' target='_blank'>Pinterest</a></p></div></center><br /> <br /> • In living spaces, do not allow any corners to remain empty. In many cases, homes that come across as imperfectly decorated are simply a bit empty. You may arrange a room in a perfectly logical way, with nice furniture, a strategically placed TV, etc. However, an empty corner can make the room seem strange all the same. Consider solving this problem with a unique potted plant, or a plush rug. <br /> <br /> <br /> <center><div style='padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px'><a href='http://pinterest.com/pin/145311525446953308/' target='_blank'><img src='http://media-cache1.pinterest.com/upload/145311525446953308_N8viBBx9_c.jpg' border='0' width='470' height ='573'/></a></div><div style='float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;'><p style='font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;'>Source: <a style='text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;' href=''>Uploaded by user</a> via <a style='text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;' href='http://pinterest.com/helloshawna/' target='_blank'>Shawna</a> on <a style='text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;' href='http://pinterest.com' target='_blank'>Pinterest</a></p></div></center><br /> <br /> • Do not allow your bookshelves to remain empty either. Whether in your home’s library, living room, foyer, etc., bookshelves can easily blend into rooms a very satisfying way, so long as they are full. However, an empty bookshelf simply draws attention to itself and puts a negative mark on the room. If you don’t have enough books, use other things – picture frames, small plants, book stops, even randomly assorted artistic trinkets! <br /> <br /> <br /> <center><div style='padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px'><a href='http://pinterest.com/pin/232498399483066372/' target='_blank'><img src='http://media-cache7.pinterest.com/upload/232498399483066372_3joV1iEY_c.jpg' border='0' width='600' height ='511'/></a></div><div style='float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;'><p style='font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;'>Source: <a style='text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;' href='http://recentlytheblog.blogspot.com/2011/05/bookcase-project.html'>recentlytheblog.blogspot.com</a> via <a style='text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;' href='http://pinterest.com/homemakerondime/' target='_blank'>Homemaker</a> on <a style='text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;' href='http://pinterest.com' target='_blank'>Pinterest</a></p></div></center><br /> <br /> • For your bedrooms, try to match all aspects of the room. Many times, people get easily excited by this or that bed frame, and these or those drapes, without carefully considering the whole room. Try to, at least within reasonable extents, match your bed frame to your room’s furniture, and your comforter and sheets to your drapes, etc. <br /> <br /> <br /> • In your dining area, never leave the table bare. This again touches on the common idea that barren space invites attention, and does not look remarkable once people are looking at it. If you want your dining room to appear particularly elegant, keep the table set with clean silver and glassware. Or, if you would rather keep such things off the table, be sure to at least leave a centerpiece, and/or some candlesticks present, so as not to leave the table completely barren. <br /> <br /> - Katie M.. is a writer and blog contributor for <a href="http://www.homesecuritysystem.com/">Homesecuritysystem.com</a>, an online resource for home security equipment.<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-7210314628010628975?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/04/decorating-tips-for-your-home.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-5078316236134386365Sun, 01 Apr 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-04-01T16:45:00.063-07:00Creative Bloggers' Party and HopI'm happy you're here! If you notice, this is the 53rd week of our weekly blog party - YAY! Thanks for sticking with me all these weeks - actually for one year and one week :) I'm not embarrassed to admit that for the first six months, I'd been inviting bloggers every week to join this party. Looking back, there's no any tinge of regret for all the time I spent doing so because in the process, I met a lot of great bloggers who in turn became good virtual friends. Being in the niche of DIY and crafting brought us all together for the common good. Thank you for all the phenomenal projects you've shared in this blog party.<br /> <br /> <i><span>Blog Tip</span></i><br /> Our blog tip today is Kim's <a href="http://www.733blog.com/2012/03/how-to-add-custom-error-message.html">how to add custom error message</a>.<br /> <br /> <i><span>Favorite Blog</span></i><br /> You clicked, inlinkz tallied. The readers' favorite blog post this past week, being the most viewed post, is Style It Chic's <a href="http://styleitchic.blogspot.com/2011/10/most-easy-way-to-cut-glass-bottles.html" target="_blank">easiest way to cut glass bottles</a>. Great tips on how to recycle glass bottles! Just turn on the google translation and you'll be good to go :)<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4wiwXrC9HH8/TpKU0Y2wVFI/AAAAAAAABDM/xLn_1lqfg4A/s400/decanter-pendantinteriorperfections.wordpress.co1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="225" width="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4wiwXrC9HH8/TpKU0Y2wVFI/AAAAAAAABDM/xLn_1lqfg4A/s400/decanter-pendantinteriorperfections.wordpress.co1.jpg" /></a></div><br /> <i><span>Our Party</span></i><br /> To the main course of this post. <br /> For those of you joining us for the first time, we only have 2 easy, simple rules:<br /> <br /> 1) Link up your creative post - can be a DIY project, decor, photography, crafts, recipes, poem, thrift finds, link party, or that informative syndicated post that can make us laugh, or cry - in short, whatever you're proud of! And if you like to link more creative posts, go for it! We'd love to see them :) (No links to businesses or giveaways. We have another party for these exclusively every Tuesday called Market Your Biz &amp; Giveaways at 5 pm, PST.)<br /> <br /> 2) Follow as many blogs as you desire, either via Google Friend Connect or <a href="http://www.linkyfollowers.com/" target="_blank">Linky Followers</a>, preferably starting first with the one who linked before you and after you, before branching out, and let them know by leaving a comment. (Following me will be very much appreciated, and I definitely follow back. Just let me know you're following.)<br /> <br /> Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated :) It will help you remember to come back and link up to the the happiest blog party on the block (ahem!). It will also help others find their way to the party which we all love because the more the merrier :)<br /> <br /> Link opens up every Sunday at 5:00 pm, PST and ends Friday at 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" name="code-source" rows="3">&lt;center&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/center&gt;</textarea></center><br /> Friends, go ahead and get to know each :) One followed blogger is one gained friend. And please, don't forget to join my Market Your Biz and Giveaways blog party every Tuesday at 5 pm, PST. It's your chance for free promotion of your family-friendly business and giveaways.<br /> <br /> Now, let's party like no other!<br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --><br /> <div id=wpImg141275><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=141275"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=141275"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=141275"></script><br /> <!-- end InLinkz script --><br /> <br /> <i><span>Burning question: </span></i>If you're hosting a blog party now, what prompted you to initiate one? If not yet, what's holding you back?<br /> <br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"> </div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-5078316236134386365?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/03/creative-bloggers-party-hop-53.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-4303947908010041894Sat, 31 Mar 2012 04:35:00 +00002012-03-30T21:35:36.780-07:00blog featureHello, bloggy friends! Welcome to another episode of the best crafts from this week's Creative Bloggers' Party Hop. Allow me to continue with the Easter treats and goodies.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.jellyfishjelly.com/?p=2866" target="_blank">Jellyfish Jelly</a> lets us enjoy chocolates with these Easter Egg Hot Choco Dipping Spoons. Oh so sweet!<br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-989u_5M3YTY/T3WEIGQvNYI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/NbJs_R6KMko/s1600/spoons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-989u_5M3YTY/T3WEIGQvNYI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/NbJs_R6KMko/s640/spoons.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> Delight your kids with these Easter Bunny Cupcakes by Carolyn of <a href="http://www.desireempire.com/2012/03/easter-bunny-cupcakes-and-motherhood.html" target="_blank">Desire Empire</a>.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-omnWz0ksI9k/T3WExVaabiI/AAAAAAAAAgc/vl7bO3BlU3k/s1600/cupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-omnWz0ksI9k/T3WExVaabiI/AAAAAAAAAgc/vl7bO3BlU3k/s640/cupcakes.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> Andrea of <a href="http://mycakecorner.blogspot.com/2012/02/easter-egg-cookies-april-2011.html" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;" target="_blank">My Cake Corner</a> shares her yummy Easter Egg Cookies. Your kids will surely be loving them because they could see their names on their cookies.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xHl5zfV5yvE/T3WHfKyUS2I/AAAAAAAAAgk/POi3WFqjJ2s/s1600/cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xHl5zfV5yvE/T3WHfKyUS2I/AAAAAAAAAgk/POi3WFqjJ2s/s640/cookies.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> Here are some inspiring Easter Table style tips and valuable ideas by Lynda of <a href="http://nyclq-focalpoint.blogspot.com/2012/03/12-easter-tablescape-tips-for-you.html" target="_blank">NYCLQ</a>.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9nJ-Lm0w7zk/T3WKi3PUDbI/AAAAAAAAAgs/m8G7TQj_iAs/s1600/tablescapetips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9nJ-Lm0w7zk/T3WKi3PUDbI/AAAAAAAAAgs/m8G7TQj_iAs/s640/tablescapetips.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> In addition to the Tablescape tips, Danielle of <a href="http://www.blissfulanddomestic.com/2012/03/30-spring-crafts-and-treats.html" target="_blank">Blissful and Domestic</a> shares 30 fabulous Spring projects. Fill your eyes with these colorful wonders by paying a visit to her site.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xcvOLksnIOE/T3WMfP3gCiI/AAAAAAAAAg0/uNDtIjdPwQ4/s1600/30springcrafts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xcvOLksnIOE/T3WMfP3gCiI/AAAAAAAAAg0/uNDtIjdPwQ4/s640/30springcrafts.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> Discover an inexpensive way to organize your tiny accessories such as earrings. Mimi of <a href="http://4livinginfrance.blogspot.com/2012/03/jewelry-organization.html" target="_blank">Living in France</a> used pill boxes and labeled each square to keep her valuables.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LgzFs1J_3yc/T3WN08jg8VI/AAAAAAAAAg8/5KVFAh4c3us/s1600/overallorganize.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LgzFs1J_3yc/T3WN08jg8VI/AAAAAAAAAg8/5KVFAh4c3us/s640/overallorganize.jpg" width="528" /></a><br /> <br /> Karah of <a href="http://thespacebetweenblog.wordpress.com/2012/03/14/its-a-cinch-gallery-wall-items/" target="_blank">The Space Between</a> shares some cool ideas to add in your artsy fartsy gallery wall.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GVtK7ng3Yes/T3WPXRcD8SI/AAAAAAAAAhE/sqXnW7IWNYQ/s1600/gallerywall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GVtK7ng3Yes/T3WPXRcD8SI/AAAAAAAAAhE/sqXnW7IWNYQ/s640/gallerywall.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> Thank you very much for linking up and sharing your awesome and wonderful crafts. <br /> <br /> <center>&nbsp;</center><center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png" /></center><br /> <br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-4303947908010041894?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/03/cbph-52-features.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Creative DIYers Club)5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-4994130910336550457Fri, 30 Mar 2012 00:59:00 +00002012-04-05T18:06:54.404-07:00easterThanks for the Easter, reflections by Cori<br /> <br /> Nothing makes me more aware of my new found adulthood than reflecting on the things I took for granted as a child. When I think about holidays, and how much I expected as a child without any thought to how it came to fruition I realize how completely silly and, sadly, ungrateful I really was. <br /> <br /> With Easter just around the corner and my five adorable nieces and nephews to spoil, I have been thinking a lot about the traditions we used to have as kids. <br /> <br /> On Easter morning my sisters and I would pop out of bed and begin the hunt for our Easter baskets and random scattered eggs. I remember how exciting it was to find your basket and tear through it checking out each yummy piece of candy or small, colorful toy. <br /> <br /> I never stopped to think about the kind of effort that was put into making each one of these custom baskets for each of us. As I am gathering items to fill the baskets for my 5 cuties, I have realized what a huge undertaking this really is. <br /> <br /> Putting together the perfect basket full of tasty treats and appropriate toys, puzzles, books, etc, can be really time consuming (not to mention EXPENSIVE). Every once in a while you see those pre-made baskets in a food store or pharmacy, but inevitably they are full of just generally crappy items and there is little room for customization. <br /> <br /> While looking through the disappointing selection at my local grocery store I was suddenly struck with the idea that I had never really used the internet to try to find Easter accoutrement before (though I have done plenty of online shopping to cover almost any other holiday!) <br /> <br /> What I discovered was a whole world of pre-made gift baskets that met my standards for Easter fun without all the work of putting it together. You can find cute, cuddly stuffed<br /> bunnies accompanied by full-size candy favorites like skittles, twizzlers, and M&M’s. <br /> <br /> There are even adult Easter <a href="http://www.gourmetgiftbaskets.com/">gift baskets</a> that I am secretly hoping someone out there gets the hint and sends me! Red wine and Dark Chocolate? In an Easter Basket? Yes, please!!<br /> <br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-4994130910336550457?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/03/easter-baskets.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-2895141034813357020Tue, 27 Mar 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-03-27T16:45:00.825-07:00Happy Business Tuesday, everyone! Welcome to Market Your Biz and Giveaways :)<br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Our Party</FONT></i></b><br /> <br /> NO RULES! Just link up your etsy and/or family-friendly business, browse other businesses before you and after you. It's a great way to network with other business owners. For the giveaways, same thing. Just link up your giveaways and join the other giveaways that catch your eye. If you have a creative post and you want to increase your followers, the appropriate blog party for that is called <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2011/07/creative-bloggers-party-hop-070311-made.html">Creative Bloggers' Party & Hop</a>.<br /> <br /> Link opens every Tuesday, 5:00 pm, PST and ends Saturday, 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> Here's the party button. Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated! For one, it will help you to remember to come back here next week. Secondly, we want to spread the word about businesses and giveaways so many can join in. Mentioning it on Twitter and Facebook will also make you totally awesome :)<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" height="175" width="175"/><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" rows="3" name="code-source"><center><a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/MYBG1-3-2-1.jpg" /></a></center></textarea></center><br /> <br /> PS: I'm not a blog police but in the name of order and organization, you'll be my bloggy BFF if you link up in the appropriate links :D Please note that there are two links. Here's the link for your businesses. There's a second link below specifically for giveaways so how about linking up your giveaways in there? Besides, it's easier to find and join your giveaways if they're in the appropriate link. If you accidentally linked up in the wrong spot, don't fret. Just click the red x before your link to delete it, then link up in the correct spot. <br /> <br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Family-friendly Businesses Here</FONT></i></b><br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --><br /> <div id=wpImg139840><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=139840"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=139840"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=139840"></script><br /> <!-- end InLinkz script --><br /> <b><i><font COLOR="95AC86">Link Up Your Giveaways Here</FONT></i></b><br /> To bring maximum exposure for your giveaways, I'm collaborating with Brynn from MommyDigger so please feel free to link up your giveaways, too, in her party every Wednesday.<br /> <center><a href="http://www.mommydigger.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mommydigger.com/MommyDigging-Giveaway-Blog-Hop.png" target="_blank" border="0"/></a></center><br /> <br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --><br /> <div id=wpImg139841><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=139841"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=139841"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=139841"></script><br /> <!-- end InLinkz script --><br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-2895141034813357020?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/03/market-your-biz-giveaways-42.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8652431254014286294.post-2933601275187386494Sun, 25 Mar 2012 23:45:00 +00002012-03-25T16:45:00.436-07:00Creative Bloggers' Party and HopYay! You're here, my friends! Thanks for consistently sharing all your fabulous projects.<br /> <br /> I just can't resist sharing you this story. Princess One has an independent study due for submission this June during their school's open house. Ever since she reached 3rd grade, she and her classmates have been hammered with writing reports that require research. This year, she decided to write a research paper on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victoria_Justice">Victoria Justice</a>, you know that actress in the Nickelodeon series Zoey 101 and Victorious. Oh, my goodness! My daughter is so star-struck that she went to the extent of sending Victoria Justice a letter to ask her questions for her report. <br /> <br /> I remember following my favorite celebrity when I was young, but only secretly, through the news and shows she starred in. When I saw her do a movie shoot in the college I attended to, I even played it cool by surreptitiously looking at her, and never intended to ask an autograph. I guess because my friends then eschewed the idea of following celebrities that I vowed never to ask for anything from any celebrity - not a picture, nor an autograph, nor anything at all. Well, I accepted the fact that times have changed, so when Princess One finished the letter, I mailed it in for her, with the warning that Victoria Justice is always busy so she might, or she might not respond to her. If Victoria responds, I'll let you know, my friends. If not, then that means she didn't. How about you, did you or your kid contact a celebrity? What was the outcome?<br /> <br /> <i><span>Blog Tip</span></i><br /> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_lQHAYkqUs">Photoshop.com mobile</a> is a good app to edit pictures for you moms that use your phones in taking photos. This is a video tutorial that you might find useful.<br /> <br /> <i><span>Favorite Blog</span></i><br /> You clicked, inlinkz tallied. The readers' favorite blog post this past week, being the most viewed post, is Design Dreams By Anne's <a href="http://designdreamsbyanne.blogspot.ca/2012/03/easy-peasy-mason-jar-project.html" target="_blank">easy peasy mason jar project</a>. These jars are truly versatile!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e2Oc0l5Gkrg/T14HlbTC9bI/AAAAAAAACOg/ZBp244NO0d8/s640/DSCN5048x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="612" width="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e2Oc0l5Gkrg/T14HlbTC9bI/AAAAAAAACOg/ZBp244NO0d8/s640/DSCN5048x.jpg" /></a></div><br /> <i><span>Our Party</span></i><br /> To the main course of this post. <br /> For those of you joining us for the first time, we only have 2 easy, simple rules:<br /> <br /> 1) Link up your creative post - can be a DIY project, decor, photography, crafts, recipes, poem, thrift finds, link party, or that informative syndicated post that can make us laugh, or cry - in short, whatever you're proud of! And if you like to link more creative posts, go for it! We'd love to see them :) (No links to businesses or giveaways. We have another party for these exclusively every Tuesday called Market Your Biz &amp; Giveaways at 5 pm, PST.)<br /> <br /> 2) Follow as many blogs as you desire, either via Google Friend Connect or <a href="http://www.linkyfollowers.com/" target="_blank">Linky Followers</a>, preferably starting first with the one who linked before you and after you, before branching out, and let them know by leaving a comment. (Following me will be very much appreciated, and I definitely follow back. Just let me know you're following.)<br /> <br /> Displaying the party button on your blog, while optional, is very much appreciated :) It will help you remember to come back and link up to the the happiest blog party on the block (ahem!). It will also help others find their way to the party which we all love because the more the merrier :)<br /> <br /> Link opens up every Sunday at 5:00 pm, PST and ends Friday at 11:59 pm.<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /><br /> </center><center><textarea id="code-source" name="code-source" rows="3">&lt;center&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/"&gt;&lt;img border="0" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae194/homemakeronadime/creativeblogbuttonjpg.jpg" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/center&gt;</textarea></center><br /> Friends, go ahead and get to know each :) One followed blogger is one gained friend. And please, don't forget to join my Market Your Biz and Giveaways blog party every Tuesday at 5 pm, PST. It's your chance for free promotion of your family-friendly business and giveaways.<br /> <br /> Now, let's party like no other!<br /> <!-- start InLinkz script --><br /> <div id=wpImg139113><a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpview.php?id=139113"><img style="border:0px" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/wpImg.php?id=139113"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=139113"></script><br /> <!-- end InLinkz script --><br /> <br /> <i><span>Burning question: </span></i>In your entire life, have you contacted a celebrity? What was the outcome?<br /> <br /> <center><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_5XRTUk0l0dQ/TNsDbz4vfUI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/egJoDiu77Yg/sign.png"></center><br /> <center><script type='text/javascript'> var _CI = _CI || {}; (function() { var script = document.createElement('script'); ref = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; _CI.counter = (_CI.counter) ? _CI.counter + 1 : 1; document.write('<div id="_CI_widget_'); document.write(_CI.counter+'"></div>'); script.type = 'text/javascript'; script.src = 'http://widget.crowdignite.com/widgets/1567?_ci_wid=_CI_widget_'+_CI.counter; script.async = true; ref.parentNode.insertBefore(script, ref); })(); </script> <div style='width: 300px;'><a href='http://crowdignite.com/account/1283' target=_blank>Get more Traffic</a></div></center><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/8652431254014286294-2933601275187386494?l=www.homemakeronadime.com' alt='' /></div>http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2012/03/creative-bloggers-party-hop-52.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime)18