Same Blog-New Place

This is now my old blog address-I am now one of those Wordpress geeks and my blog now sits at www.SixFeetUnderBlog.com . So, please visit me there and if you subscribe to it, you will be my new best friend and chocolate chip cookies will fall from the sky.

Saturday, December 31, 2011

Happy New Year!!

Wishing everyone a.....











Thursday, December 29, 2011

What is your credit score?

Part of running a business means you have to have the means to keep it successful. Sometimes, you might need help with funding for advertising, new equipment, etc. Especially if you are just starting out.

Of course, this could mean that you need to try to get a loan. Now, if you are like me, your first thought would be WHAT IS MY CREDIT?! Credit is sooo important when it comes to getting loans, jobs, and as my oldest is finding out, a place to live.

Did you know that you can get a free credit check? I just came across this cute FreeScore commercial and laughed my butt off, but in all seriousness, it is very important to know your credit score and at FreeScore it's just that, free!

So, I'm starting the year out checking my credit and I'm going to apply for my first business loan to remodel our downstairs into a photography studio-it will be cheaper then what I pay for my studio!

Wish me luck!

Saturday, December 24, 2011

Nothing like the last minute

I've been so busy this season, I haven't had a chance to do my own family photos. We never got a group family photo this season at all this year, which I'm a bit upset about. To let you know just how crazy it's been, we JUST got the grand babies Christmas photos YESTERDAY.









From past experiences, I've found that these two are not fond of getting their photos taken.


So, I was worried if we would even be able to get them to sit long enough to get their photos taken.










But, as you can see, they behaved quite well.

Of course, it doesn't hurt to promise them chocolate and toys if they behaved.


Or, threaten them with no Christmas presents tomorrow...






Merry Christmas!!!

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Breaking the promise

Every year, we promise not go over board with gifts. We always end up breaking that promise.




This morning, while digging through the mound of presents overflowing from under the tree, I realized we once again, broke that promise...


Friday, December 16, 2011

Ba, Humbug

Every year around this time, I enjoy going Christmas shopping. Yes, I love to walk through the mall, or department stores and watch other shoppers swarm through the isles, looking for that perfect gift, while I listen to the soft holiday music piped through the store's speakers. I'm probably one of the few perfect customers that a cashier wouldn't mind waiting on. I'm nice to all of them and thank them for giving such great service.



This year, however, I was slowly losing the Christmas spirit. I've been treated so horribly by cashiers, waitresses and pretty much any service person. I was getting such terrible service that I even had to complain to management. Shoppers have been pushy and jerky as well and I even have been treated badly by clients. I was starting to feel like I was wearing a tshirt with the words BE MEAN TO ME-I LIKE IT on the front.

Was this what mankind has turn into? Are we so miserable that we don't even feel the need to be nice to each other?


So, needless to say, I've been depressed this year and not feeling like going to the mall to just people watch.


Today I came across this article on Yahoo and it brightened my day. Well, after it brought tears to my eyes. It's given me hope that there still is Christmas spirit in the world, if not for just one short time during the year.

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

When you buy a lemon

My oldest seems to have a problem with buying lemons. I think we've dumped 1000's in repairing broken cars and loaning her money for more cars that turned out to be lemons. It would be nice for her to be protected. Usually, her car would end up having to go back because she couldn't afford the repairs, or she would have to sell it. Either way, it wasn't good for her credit.

I get tired of consumers being ripped off by businesses. If you live in California, you are protected under the California lemon law. If you are looking for California Lemon law lawyers to help you fight a corrupt car sale, there are online sources to help. My Lemon Law Center is one.

Lemon Law attorneys in California can be found to help you by having the option of having the company buyback the "lemon" you're now driving. Your other option is getting a new car or truck. I wish we had known about this!

Know your rights by researching the lemon law in your area and if you have a case, make sure you get the right lawyer to help you the most!

Thursday, November 3, 2011

The voyage of Young Doctor Dolittle




The Voyages of Young Doctor Dolittle
Coming to DVD on November 1, 2011
Based on the classic 1920's children's book series and starring the voices of Jane Seymour, Jason Alexander, Tim Curry and Tom Kenny.




This movie is rated G and has a running time of 80 minutes.


We liked the lively of the characters and kept the little ones in the daycare interested. My daughter liked this one as well. Definately one to watch for the whole family!


Disclaimer: I was sent a copy of the DVD for the purpose of review. No other compensation was received.

A changing world

Last week, while walking back to my car with a load of groceries, I was approached by a woman. She told me that she just got an apartment behind the grocery store and a new job, but didn't have any money yet to buy food. She asked if she could have some money. I told her that I don't carry cash on me and I quickly walked to my car. I felt bad, but my mama told me to not talk to strangers, and usually it's a scam to grab your wallet while you are getting them change.

Yesterday, while IN the same grocery store, I was approached by a man who GAVE ME THE SAME EXACT STORY. Ok, what's the odds of this happening twice? I told him that someone approached me last week with the same story and he quickly left. I found a manager and told him the story and he apologized and told me to tell someone next time and they will kick them out. I thanked him and told him that I just wanted to make them aware that this scam was going on there (it's a nice store in a fairly nice area).

While feeling bad the first time, I'm glad I listened to instincts (and mom) and not trust the person. It actually makes me sad to think that people have to resort to doing such things and I hope that we don't have to start worrying about being approached, or robbed going to a trusted neighborhood just to get groceries. I don't live in a big crazy city like Chicago to avoid such encounters.

Am I making a point here? Not really. I just wish that instead of holding out their hand (and scamming), people would find their self worth and make something of themselves!

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Anyone there?

One thing that always bothers me is missing clients calls. Since I don't have any employees, when the phone rings and I'm with another client in the middle of a shoot and my phone rings, I have to let it ring.

I always wished that I had some kind of telephone system that could handle my call, or put them on hold for a minute while I finish up. Well, I found such a service that would be perfect for a small (or big) business. RingCentral has an awesome system that handles calls for you!

Here how it works:

-You get free unlimited calling.
-You can use your phones, or one of theirs.
-RingCentral answers all calls and faxes for you with an auto-receptionist.
-Your clients can select an extension with your customized hours, greetings and call forwarding to another phone.
-Clients can be put on hold until you are available.

How cool is that?!

With all the photographers out there these days, when I miss a call, a lot of times, I lose the client. I can't afford that!

If you work at home with children, you may just need an extra minute to get to the phone, or if you are closed for the day and want to stay on those business hours, the auto message detailing your working hours would be so convenient.

I really think this is a must-have for any entrepreneur-and I'm sure you could write it off as a business expense as well!

A visit to the doctor

It's been years since I've gone for a check up. I don't have a fear of doctors, I just have a fear of bad news. So, when a bad bladder infection landed me at the doctor's office, you know I had to be hurting.


While there, they sent me for blood tests and I found that my cholesterol level was a wee bit high. This took me by surprise since I'm not over weight. The doc wasn't too concern but wanted me to just change my diet and exercise more and they would check me in a year.




This gave me a mission: to lower my cholesterol level drastically over the upcoming year. I did research online and found out a lot about good and bad cholesterol. some interesting stuff! I'm going to change our eating habits at home and help out the whole family-I know my hubby's has to be high because he lovesssss his meat.




I also have been wanting to firm up and I probably could stand to lose a couple of pounds, so I'm excited to see what comes of all this. This is good timing as well, because I've been chosen to do a review on a pair of Hot Pants. I'm hoping to have them soon and can't wait to try them out. You can read about them here.




I don't know if you can check your cholesterol, but I'll keep you posted on my diet change and whatnot-don't worry, I'm not going to change to a diet blog. lol




Things are going to slow down photography wise too, so I hope to get back to writing as well! So, please check back daily! Maybe I'll beg businesses to let me do a giveaway too-cross your fingers. :)

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Pet Art


In addition to being a photographer, I also do pet art. My pet art site is named, TMoodyDesigns.com.
This time of year is a great time to start thinking about the pet lovers in your life and what to get them for Christmas. Everyone has one in the family-mine is my sister. Her child is her doggy, Shelby.
Around this time of year, I like to run a great special for the holidays. This year, I'm running this special:
Pet Art Special:16x20 canvas art print wrapped and ready to hang.$99(plus shipping)
Valid until Dec 14th.
This is a perfect size art canvas for any home and fits nicely under the tree!
If you would like to order one for someone in your life, or even yourself, visit here.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

America's Next Top Model

Guest post from Hal Potter
Have you guys ever seen that show “America’s Next Top Model?” I don’t know what it is about that show but I just can’t get enough! I think it’s that the girls are so young and naïve about the way the world works and they think that when they get this modeling contract it’s going to be all puppies and roses and everything good. Of course, we all know that’s not how it works but it’s cute enough seeing them struggle through all the challenges! I got Direct tva while back and I figured I’d be watching a lot more news channels but since there have apparently been about a thousand seasons of this show and it’s always on reruns I feel like that’s all I ever watch anyway. It’s just a great way for me to zone out after a long day at work and since I’m five foot nothing I could never have dreamt of being a modelso I guess it’s fun to live vicariously through other people like that.

Thursday, September 29, 2011

True story of puss'n boots

I'm sure everyone wants to see the new movie, Puss'n Boots when it comes out, so what a great time to see The True Story of Puss'n Boots with Emmy and Golden Globe winner William Shatner as the voice of Puss. The True Story of Puss 'n Boots from Phase 4 Films, is an animated movie based on the classic children's story Puss ‘N Boots by Charles Perrault.


The True Story of Puss 'n Boots is about a young farmer's son, who inherits a talking cat with magical boots. The magical cat Puss helps the farmer's son win the heart of the princess while battling her other suitors.


My youngest, Emily, who is 6 watched the movie and liked it. I wouldn't recommend it for younger children due to the semi rough scenes. When asked, she said she would watch it again and we plan on using it for entertainment when she has some of her friends over on the weekend.



A nice gift for anyone wanting something different for children ages 6-10.



I was given a free copy for review in partnership with Team Mom/Child’s Play PR. Thoughts and opinions here are 100% my own and not influenced by others.

Dressing for a photo

I love it when a family wants me to help them to pick out their colors for their photos. I love simple patterns and I don't recommend doing the "twinkie" look, meaning everyone dressing alike. Picking one outfit and building around it works.






Take for instance, one of these adorable girls dresses.








Take that outfit and work around it. Like this cute outfit for big brother.




And this sweater for big sis. The colors compliment each other and stay in a "theme" without everyone wearing the exact thing. The look still stays classic without looking dated with the everyone wearing jeans and white shirt-argh!





I recommend staying in darker colors since it brings out most people's complexion better.





While you are at it, check out their wardrobe collections to mix and match for school as well. That way, you didn't just buy an outfit for family photos-you save money in the long run!

Friday, September 23, 2011

Crap.

Since I got the studio in June, I've been nervous about the parking. It's located on a busy corner, with a tight turn. I've tried to not park on the end, thinking that surely, if any of the cars were going to get hit, that's where it's going to be. I made sure that I park up further to avoid this spot at all cost.




Last week, I was meeting a bride to pick up her book and I made sure to park way down from that dangerous spot. In the meantime, another car took up the place between my car and the end spot. I worried that the bride would have to park on the end and sure enough, she parked there when she arrived.


I tried to hurry up our meeting so she could leave and when she got in her car, I started getting everything turned off and ready to lock up for the day. We (Emily and I) were just ready to walk out when we heard a loud crash outside. I thought, oh no, she got hit!



I ran outside to see the damage, only to find her car untouched. I looked towards my car to find a car smashed into the building next door. It had hit and moved the car behind mine and got my right bumper on the way.




Crap. Crap. Crap.


Go figure. Had I parked in the dangerous spot, my car would have been fine.


Turns out, a young girl was learning how to drive and hit the gas instead of the brakes. I was so mad that now I would have to deal with taking the car in, getting a rental, and all the pain in the butt hassles with the insurance company. Then, my husband pointed out to me the fact that had we not had to turn lights off and lock up, we would have been in the path of the car and probably been killed.


First, I thanked him for freaking me out, then I thanked my lucky stars that all that we got was a dented bumper.





I felt sorry for the gal that owned the car behind us.


. She got the worse of it.



What about the bride? Well, she was a witness, so she had to stay and talk to the cops. I hope she doesn't take this as bad luck on her marriage. She already had her ring stolen on her honeymoon.



Hmmm, maybe SHE brought MY bad luck...

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Feeling the love

Giving Emily's friend a ride home...

Emily: "Watch out-my mom likes to sing in the car."

Me: "Hey, you act like that's a bad thing!"

Emily (ignoring me): "Haley, just put your hands over your ears. That works for me."

Me: Grrrrr...

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

When Jordon wants money...

Jo: "Love you, Mom!"

Me: "How much do you need?"

Jo: "Twenty."

When Jordon DOESN'T need something...

Me: "Love you, Jo."

Jo: (silence)

Me: "I see how it is...."

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

Phone rings....

Me: "Hello?"

Jess: "Mom, can I borrow $20?"

Me: "Borrow? Do you mean HAVE $20?"

Jess: "Ok, can I HAVE $20?"

Me: "I guess."

Jess: "Love ya!"

Me: "Until I run out of money..."



Monday, August 29, 2011

Farthead

Emily had been wanting a kitten for some time now. My husband is not a cat person, so I had been trying to find a way to convince him to let her get one. Every time I would bring it up, he would change the subject.



I still had hope though, and checked out the paper and pet stores weekly for kittens. We thought that maybe if we just got one, he would just have to deal with it.


One day, while at the pet store, we came across some cute kittens. I chickened out and didn't just buy one, but instead, we came home and brought it up to him. Surprisingly, he said "ok" and I about fell over. I asked why he changed his mind and he said that he might as well give in because he wouldn't win anyway-smart guy.


So, we went back a couple of days later and they were all gone! My daughter was heartbroken. We had already bought all the supplies and food, but now no kitten. Then, we ended up finding this little guy.



I wasn't too thrilled getting a male, but he seemed pretty tame. Emily named him Sam.


I, on the other hand, will be calling him


FARTHEAD.



I have never met a cat (or human) that farts as much as this 1/2 pound fluff ball. I have been forced to keep a can of air freshener on my desk for immediate use if needed. Now, the dog no longer gets blamed when that silent, but deadly, odor appears while the family is watching a movie in the family room.


This dust bunny does.


Maybe I should have listened to my husband about cats.

Friday, August 26, 2011

Reborn

Sadly, I've neglected this blog. I think I was too busy having a brain overload borderline nervous breakdown. I just couldn't write, no matter how much I tried. I just felt depressed every time I tried to write for some reason.

And I had a lot to write about. Could have made you laugh, cry and feel sorry for me. For some reason, though, I just couldn't do it.

I think I'm better again. I feel good about writing again and catching up with old friends. Maybe it's the cozy feeling of fall around the corner that makes me want to sit in front of the computer and spill my guts about my life. Who knows.

At any rate, I'm back again and I hope you will come visit again. I will catch you up on what's been happening with me, like my regret of getting a studio-did I really need one? My oldest still having crisis after crisis, and my son's discovery of a social life. Oh, let's not forget little Emily. She's a week's worth of blogging alone!

Have a great weekend and stop by on Monday-I'll be here! :)

Monday, July 4, 2011

Zhu Zhu Summer Ice Cream Fun

Zhu Zhu Pets have thought of another cute theme- Ice Cream! What a perfect time of the year to do it.




Doesn't the sound of the ice cream truck slowly winding down the street take you back to your childhood days?




It does for me. Now, your children can pretend it's ice cream time all day long with the new Zhu Zhu pets Ice Cream playset.



What are Zhu Zhus, you ask? I guess I'm getting ahead of myself. Zhu Zhu pets are the popular, cute hamsters that make adorable hamster sounds and run around your house.



They come in different colors and different playsets. I've written about them before here.

This theme is a new one and consists of a Zhu Zhu Pets Ice Cream Parlor, a Zhu Zhu Pets Ice Cream Truck, and new Zhu Zhu pets in pastel colors-my favorite is the pink one.




The kids had fun playing with this set. The ice cream truck can be driven by a Zhu Zhu pet, . The ice cream shop has a drive through with ice cream and plates.




This looks like it's geared towards girls with all the pretty colors, but the boys liked it just as much.




If you are looking for something for your kids to do, Zhu Zhu Pets Ice Cream Fun is a great summertime treat for your kids.


I was given a Zhu zhu Ice Cream play set and zhu zhu pets to review by MomSelect.

Monday, June 20, 2011

After photos of studio

Please check out my post on my new studio here. Thanks!

Friday, June 17, 2011

The First Communion

Emily will be coming to the age of her first communion. I think she is finally getting the concept of religion and everything that comes with it. Her little niece and nephew are going to be baptized soon, so she will get to see a baptismal for the first time. If they get baptized before her first communion, she will have some practice of seeing a church event. Hopefully, this will ease her feelings on what it will be like to stand up in front of everyone. She’s had lots of practice for when she won the Hallmark Card contest and was on tv!

One thing that she is excited about is the celebration afterwards. She knows that she will be getting gifts from family and friends. That means that we will be having to think about what to get her for a gift. Most girls communion gifts are pretty cross necklaces, or a bible.

When my oldest daughter had her first communion, we found some great gifts for her from a little religious store. I think I will look online for Emily.

She has been talking about wanting a cross necklace for sometime now, so I think that's what I'll be getting her. I wish she would let me get her ears pierced, because I would love to get her a matching pair of earrings.

I thought these looked pretty and add a bit of color.



Or, adding pearls would be cool!

She is excited for this day to come and I look forward to it as well!

The hot days of wearing socks

I don't know about you, but I have been having a hard time finding the right girls sandals for Emily. I admit, I've just been trying the cheap stores, but everyone seems to just want to sell the flip flops. Unfortunately, Emily H. A. T. E. S. this type of sandal. I've probably spent $50 on those darn shoes because if she thinks they are cute, she thinks she might suddenly like wearing them.

Nope.



So, the poor girl is stuck wearing tennis shoes all the time. This wouldn’t be a problem, but she’s been wanting to wear her good dresses lately, and well, she looks like a hillbilly-not that there is anything wrong with that. We thought we found some sandals the other day, but they ended up hurting the side of her toes after walking on them for a bit and we had to go back home and get other shoes.



I'm hoping to find an online site that takes you through the steps of getting the right shoe that gives the right fit.



Startriteshoes.com does just that. This site even has videos on how to properly fit your child's shoes and articles on caring for your children's feet and the different stages of walking and the proper shoes.



I think that Emily would like this style of sandals because it doesn't require her to have anything between her toes.

She takes after her mama in that department.



We have pictures coming up here shortly, so it will be nice to not have her look like a tennis-shoe-with-a-dress-wearing-hillbilly.


NOT that there's anything wrong with that... :)

Friday, June 10, 2011

A monster

Has there ever been a person in your life that you hated so much, that you wished they would just spontaneously combust? I have such a person. Zach's father. If you are new to this blog, or you have forgotten about all the trouble I've had with this kid in the past, he is my grandbaby's pathetic excuse for a father-let alone human being.

He and my daughter were one of those on again, off again relationship people. Pretty much when he didn't have a job, they were on, and when he got the urge to cheat, they were off. I'm not sure what brain malfunction my daughter had to think she deserves such a jerk, but we all have our demons I guess.

Five months after her daughter was born, he went back to work, so he didn't need my daughter anymore and found some girl that was in the Army. Obviously, they let idiots in the Army. My daughter let him see the kids to be nice, but as you could guess, things started to go sour with the visitations. He started saying that my daughter didn't know how to take care of her kids and at the same time, he kept changing and giving up his visits for this new girl and her little girl. I think he was trying to show off by putting this other child above his.

I kept telling her that I didn't feel comfortable with her sending the baby over with this piece of shit and that one day, she probably would end up getting hurt. For what ever reason, she still sent them over and it made me cringe every time.

So, the fighting between the two of them was ongoing, with him putting his new "family" over his own kids by telling my daughter to "get her fucking kids" every time they didn't come over perfect. He also never would buy diapers or food when they came over. My daughter had to supply everything for them and then he would complain about her. He also put them to bed at 7 just so he wouldn't have to deal with them.

Now, what I am going to tell you next may shock you, or you might think that it was okay. I personally can't believe that anyone would side with what he did, but you would be surprised at people's opinions-especially a cop.

The last time that he picked the kids up, he had called her 15 mins later and told her they had lice. She said no they didn't, and he said that they were crawling all over Zach's head. She proceeded to tell him that there was nothing on his head when she sent him. He then told her that him and his girlfriend SHAVED THEIR HEADS. A little girl's hair that took 6 months to grow-and who didn't even have anything?????

He tried telling her that he tried everything else first. Really? You had them for 15 mins and you tried everything else? My daughter could not believe what she just heard. She thought he was joking. He said for her to come "get her fucking kids" and that she owed his piece of shit girlfriend for treatment of their trailer. Really? My daughter was so mad, she jumped in her car and went to get them.

She called the cops to press charges on the girl but the cop said that he didnt see anything wrong with what they did. I really hate cops. She now has a lawyer to protect those kids and it sounds like it's going to be a messy ride.

For now the kids are safe. I feel like crying every time I see them-they look like they have some kind of sickness.

What would you think it someone lied about your babies having bugs and shaved their heads-especially if one was a girl?

Friday, June 3, 2011

Picking the right clothing for a shoot

We have been hard at work remodeling the new studio and hope to be done by this weekend. I have to shoot a newborn session this weekend, so I hope the client won't mind the semi-done studio.



I'm changing my prices and packages on my photography site as well, so I'm doing double cleaning duty on my photography business.


I think while I'm working on my website, I will add a children's clothing ideas area to help clients decide what to dress their child in for a session. Neutral wear is always classic if you plan on hanging the photos on their wall.


Here are some examples:







These are soft colors that work well together. Children's clothes should not over power a shoot and take away from a child's face.


I think it will be fun to put together different clothing sets that work for the entire family as well.

Stay tuned!



Monday, May 30, 2011

You've got to see this

I've got some exciting news!!


Read it here.


Have a great rest of the day off!

Monday, May 16, 2011

Summer is almost here

Are you starting to plan your summer vacation yet?


We are!


I have been wanting to go to St. Louis, Missouri for two years now. I'm hoping to make it a reality this summer. We want to visit the zoo, go on the arch, and check out some shopping!



Right now Twizzlers® Candy, the perfect on-the-go treat, is helping to sweeten family travel this summer with the Twizzlers Landmark Summer™ promotion. The promotion gives consumers the chance to win a trip to a well-known United States destination plus daily, road trip-themed prizes throughout the summer. Twizzlers is my favorite candy and has been since as long as I can remember. How cool would it be if I won a vacation from the bestest candy makers in the whole wide world??

Then, I might have to go to Disney World instead- I'm just saying...

"I'm entering a contest for a Twizzlers Landmark Summer promotion prize pack as a member of the Mom Bloggers Club."

Not the fun mom.

Summer is approaching fast-even though Mother Nature seems to be bi-polar these days and can't decide what season she wants it to be. This was my youngest daughter's first year of school and I can't believe we survived. We went through ups and downs, first play dates at her new friend's houses, story telling, and who knows what else since school is not out yet.

I have to wonder what her summer will be like being at home and stuck with us. She says she's excited to get to stay home, but I think she will be bored. I love when my kids are home for summer, but I don't look forward to those dirty looks from her when, after the first two days of freedom wear off and she suddenly has nothing to do.

I will then have to become her playmate, even though I don't have the summer off. In fact, it's my busiest time of the year. So, I will have to disappoint her and be the bad guy as usual.

This reminds me of the other day, when I picked her up after school and as we were walking to the car, she turns to me and asks, "Mom, what do fun moms do with their kids?"

Ouch.

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Pampers Little Miracle Mission

In celebration of its 50th birthday, Pampers wants everyone to know that every baby is a miracle and they want to celebrate it. That's why they started Little Miracle Mission campaign – a program that delivers acts of kindness to families while encouraging parents to support others.

Pampers started their campaign by donating care packages to Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) across the country!

Watch Pampers video here.

Pampers gave me a chance to do something good for another parent as well! I was given $50 to donate however I chose. I recently learned that a parent with two small children lost her job and home. I know that $50 can't fix everything, but I decided to give it to her to use for gas to look for a new job while she stays with a close friend until she gets back on her feet.



What you do with $50 to help a fellow parent?



Pampers wants to give one lucky reader a chance to pay it forward and help someone with their own $50 American Express Card.



I know this isn't like my normal giveaways, where you get to keep the prize, but it's the biggest prize of all-helping someone and feeling good about it!



Please help out and enter-it's fun, trust me!



Entry requirements:

Leave a comment and tell me what you would do if you won.



My readers can easily participate in the Miracles Missions programs, and support little miracles across the country, by logging on to Pampers Facebook page (Facebook.com/Pampers).



Pampers will issue different missions throughout the entire year to celebrate all aspects of parenthood, and with the help of parents, family and friends, they hope to touch the lives of every baby born in the next year.




Giveaway ends:

May 20th, 2011

Setting goals for your child-and you.

I'm always making lists.


Lists that contain goals.


Big ones.


Little ones.


I think it's a good idea to set daily goals for yourself, or even long term goals. It helps you to stay organized in your life. What about your children? Yes, they should set goals too. It's something that can help them to help deal with life when they are older and to help clear their mind and know what they want out of life.


When I had the opportunity to try Goalforit.com , I thought it would be a great tool to use! Goalforit.com is an online goal setting data site to help you document and keep track of your goals. For adults and children. One thing I wanted to try right away was the Chore Chart option.



With the Chore Chart, you can build a chart online, picking the header and what chores you want your child to do and even the rewards you want to give your child for doing their chores. I made one for Emily and she's been having fun doing chores (that's right-fun!) and seeing her allowance grow.


So, if you are looking to document your goals or chores and behavior charts for your children, you should give this service a try-it's free!

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

It's a Zhu Zhu party!

Have you heard of Zhu Zhu Pets? If you have children, then you probably have. Zhu Zhu Pets are Zhu Zhu pets are fuzzy, interactive hamsters that run around like real hamsters. They are about the size of regular hamsters and take two AA batteries.

It took awhile for my youngest to catch on to it. She just wasn't interested until a couple of months ago. A great timing too, because I was picked by MomSelect to host a Zhu Zhu babies party!
I could not believe what our party kit included. We got enough babies for everyone, a big Zhu Zhu pet, a nursery, and extra outfits. Plus, ideas for the party.


I decided to invite some daycare kids and some of Emily's friends from school. We started the party by letting everyone pick out a Zhu Zhu baby.


We already had the nursery set up, so everyone got to try it out. Oh, I also told moms that kids could bring their Zhu Zhu pets from home if they had one.


We passed out treats while they played for awhile. Then, we played hide-the-egg game. Whoever found the egg won one of the outfits for their baby. The kids loved it! Afterwards, they wanted to go back to playing with the nursery. I'm guessing that some moms probably got an idea for next birthday. :)
Would I recommend Zhu Zhu babies and accessories? Yes! I think they offer hours of play and when friends can bring their pets from home, there is a lot of interactive play without the fighting that sometimes comes along with sharing.



We are now looking into getting more accessories!


I was not paid for this post-I received Zhu Zhu items for party review.

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

The life of a wedding photographer

I shot a wedding a couple of weeks ago and I think it had to be the worse wedding ever. I don't think I ever had a wedding go perfect, but this wedding put all those to shame. This was a wedding that I would not wish on my worse enemy.

Six months ago...





When I first talked to this couple 6 months ago, the bride was very excited to have me take their wedding photos and how the pictures were very important to her. I was a bit nervous with the pressure put on me to produce perfect photos. I studied poses and put together a plan on what I wanted to take so she would have a nice book to remember her wedding by.





THEN, came the two weeks before her wedding. I contacted her to set up a time to meet and pay the rest of the balance and discuss any changes before the wedding. I told her what time I needed everyone to be there so we would not be rushed for pictures. She said that it was fine and that everyone would be there. She paid and we talked about her wedding and took care of final details.


Thank goodness!


A couple of days pass, and I receive an email from her stating that she talked to her bridesmaids and they decided that we didn't need to be there that early.


Really? THEY decided? And how many weddings have they shot before?


I tried to explain to her that we did need that time to get all the photos that I'm accustomed to getting for a great book. She insisted that she couldn't, so I reminded her that my contract clearly states that if wedding party and client are late, it is not my responsibility for missed shots, etc.





So, my assistant and I show up at the venue on the wedding day. We came way early in hopes to catch the bride and talk her into starting early. We found her in the reception room decorating an empty room. She looked upset and when she saw us, she told us how the night before at the rehearsal, some of her bridesmaids turned on her, her maid of honor was at the emergency room for an allergic reaction, and she was fighting with her mom.






Ceremony starts at 4:30pm-it's 12:30.


We offered to help decorate, but she said 'no' and had her dad help her. We decided to leave and get some filler shots to kill time and when we got back (at the time she wanted) she was still decorating. I explained to her that we already lost an hour of shooting and couldn't be delayed any longer. She finally tried calling people to help and I was relieved to see some people finally show up to help. I figured that we would now be able to grab her and get some getting ready photos, only to find out she said she had to stay longer to show them how to do it.


1:45. tick, tock. tick, tock...


I finally put my foot down and said that if she wanted pictures done for her wedding, she needed to come-now! She agreed and we finally got her on her way to her room. When we walked in the room, her maid of honor calls her on her cell phone and starts yelling at her (she blamed her for her allergic reaction) and she can't get her off the phone. After about 10 minutes of the girl yelling at her, she finally loses it and starts crying.


It's now 2:00-we've lost an hour at this point..






She settles down and I finally get some getting ready photos. Just as I am about to take a picture, her mom walks in the room. The bride tries to talk to her mom for comfort and her moms blurts out, "Well, the problem is, you are just a bitch!"


OMG...


The bride jumps up and tells her mom to "F-off" and literally throws her out the room and breaks down again and starts crying hysterically. My assistant and I (who are the only other people in the room) just look at each other and give the what-the-hell-now? look. I decide to ask the bride if she would like us to leave and she said 'yes' so, we go down to the lobby. There, we meet up with the mom and she's telling the story to everyone standing around her. They all turn to us and give us a look and she blurts out, "Did she kick you out too?" I gave a nervous laugh and said, "No."







2:45 now...


I figured the day would be cancelled at this point, but she ended up calling us and said she was ready to take photos. We went back up and she was putting her makeup on. We got her mother-in-law to help with the dress. We were making progress now.


Wait! You don't think that was the end, did you?




Just as we were taking another shot, in storms the maid-of-honor. She starts complaining to the bride and she (the bride) calmly tells her that everything would work out and to just get ready. The bride turned back around, thinking her friend left, and mumbled something about how everyone was acting. The girl comes charging back at her and they start yelling at each other. The bride gets upset-AGAIN.






It's now 3:00...




I now have an hour to take three hours worth of photos. The bride decides to calm down so we try to rush her out to get her photos taken, only to have her drag her heels. I decide to just run down and take the groom's photos and that is the only thing that went smoothly ( guys are like that). We rush through his and then she (the bride) ends up finally coming down, so I rush through hers (haaaate thaaaaaat!). We threw in some bridesmaid photos and by then, it was 4:10.




Another, OMG!!




I ran to the ceremony part, threw in new batteries, and got ready with only 2 minutes to spare. We got through the ceremony and then...

Well, of course there was more drama-really? Did you think that my day would get better?

Hahahaha...




We still needed group shots and couple shots, so I told the couple that we needed to get right on it. The groom decides all of sudden, to start complaining. He said it was rude to keep the guests waiting.




What? Are you kidding me??

I explained to him that they expect to wait for photos-I wanted to add, "You bozos are the reason we are fitting photos in right now anyway," but, I bit my tongue instead. So, I only got half the poses I wanted.
We finally finished and went on to the reception.

God, please let this be done...

When we got to the reception, the couple did everything backwards, so we were running around trying to get everything. Oh, and I found out my ex boyfriend was the DJ.

Funny, wedding gods.

So, when we were FINALLY done for the night, I walked up to the bride and thanked her and said we had what we needed. She was all excited and said, "I can't wait to see the pictures!"

Trust me, honey. You can wait...

Monday, May 2, 2011

Winners announced! Shabby Apple Giveaway

I didn't think this day would come:

The winner of the Shabby Apple Giveaway is.....


Dawn


Dawn said...
I am already a follower and I am passing on The Versatile Blogger Award to you! I love your blog!
Check out my post:
http://checkitoutdawn.blogspot.com/2011/04/i-won-versatile-blogger-award.html


Congrats, Dawn!

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Can I get some cheap seats?

Tis the season to go to ball games and concerts. But, with the high rising costs of gas and food, it can put a damper on enjoying some entertainment. I always wished someone would give me a good deal on some Yankee Stadium tickets, or Fenway Park tickets.

I found a great site called, ACheapSeat.com that offers you a good deal on tickets and if you are looking for tickets to an event, you can find it. So, whether you want Jersey Boys Tickets , Harlem Globetrotters Tickets, or even Taylor Swift Tickets ;you can get them here!

What a relief, since I need to find some cheap tickets for the hubby's birthday present-he loves Michael Buble and he's going to be in town for his birthday month-yeah!!

Renting college books

Do you have a child that will be starting college soon? Maybe they won't be starting for a couple of years. Either way, you still need to start thinking about how you can save money for college. Something that you might not of thought about is how you are going to pay for books. Books can be a costly expense that may or may not be covered in grants, or just something that you are struggling to think of a way to pay for. Not to mention the fact that after the class is over, you may not even need them anymore. Then, you are stuck trying to sell them to get rid of them.

Did you know that you could rent textbooks? CampusBookRentals does just that! I really could have used rented books when I went to school. At least I know now, and my oldest is starting college soon and this is something we are going to look into to saving money.

At CampusBookRentals, you just order your books and wait for them to arrive-they even offer free shipping! How cool! They even buy books, so if you have any to get rid of, you can make some cash too.

If you are looking to save money, then I think you should give them a try!

Monday, April 25, 2011

Early Mother's Day-and a giveaway!

Mother's Day is right around the corner and I'm excited to get a day of pampering-hopefully. I like getting flowers and plants occassionally for special occassions. The hubby hasn't been on the ball with surprising me with roses or whatnot.

When ProFlowers wanted to send me a special plant or flower arrangement, I happily agreed.

Who needs the hubby?

Flowers are so pretty to put on your kitchen table, but sometimes I like to get something that lasts more then a week. What's great about Proflowers, is that they sell plants too! So I picked the Potted Fragrant Gardenia.

I am showing the stock photo of it since mine isn't blooming yet.

It fits in perfect with my decor and I can't wait until it starts flowering so it can start make my kitchen smell like gardenias.

If you don't like this particular plant, they have lots of Mother's Day Flowers to choose from. They even have a coupons page

Feel free to mention our coupons page and you can save 20%, Free vase, Free weekday delivery and other deals.

Don't think that you can find anyone to give you flowers on Mother's Day?

Then, try to win it!

Proflowers is giving away $50 to one lucky winner to pick out their own flower arrangement!

This is what you need to do:

Follow me and then leave a comment telling me your favorite flower.

Want an extra entry?
(must do required entry first)


Like ProFlowers-As a thank you, readers will get 20% off your order!
http://www.facebook.com/ProFlowers

Want TWO extra entries?

Blog about it-leave me a link and leave another entry.


Good luck!



Contest ends May 1st.

Sunday, April 24, 2011

Eat Chocolate.

Happy Easter!

Saturday, April 23, 2011

A new quest and something furry

I'm excited to announce that I've finally got the hubby on board with trying to sell our house to find a bigger one. We actually needed a bigger house five years ago, but he just didn't want to go through the hassle.

I'm not sure what actually changed his mind finally. Maybe it was my constant complaining about not having room for storage. Or, maybe my constant complaining about needing an office. Or, maybe it was my constant complaining about how small the bedrooms were. Or, maybe just my constant complaining-period.

So, I've been on a mission to get the house ready. I've been throwing out stuff, packing items we won't need, and looking for houses in the area that I want to move to. It's been hectic, but worth it. In the process of eliminating clutter, I am almost to the point of feeling like the house is bigger-but, not enough to not move though.

My youngest, Emily has been helping me because as she puts it, I want a bedroom with stairs. She means she wants a house thats two stories. Boy, will she be mad if I pick another ranch. I also promised her a kitten when we move-something the hubby doesn't know about yet. He hates cats and if he knew that, he would probably change his attitude about moving.

Boy, I sure will miss him if that happens.

Friday, April 15, 2011

There is hope.

Awhile back, I talked about my son turning into a teenage alien. He barely talked to me and I didn't have a clue to what was going on in his life. Well, we've made some process and I think he's finally starting to find himself. At least I hope. You see, my son has never really wanted to join any sports or any kind of group. He liked his video games and that's what kept him happy. I guess I was to blame to make it easy for him to get lost in this "babysitting" convenience-it kept him out of my hair and busy. So, once he hit the teen years, he decided he wanted to be more sociable. Good news, but teens have it hard as it is. I think he was overwhelmed by it all. AND he's discovered girls. lol. He found this church group that do lots of activities and he gets a chance to get out and go do things he never really wanted or had the chance to before. He still acts like a typical teen, but not as bad, and even tells me more things about his life. This makes me a lot happier and not so distant from him. Woo hoo! Now, we just need to work on his school work-something I just found out about-he's missing a lot of assignments. But, at least I have leverage now- no turning assignments in, no social life!

Friday, April 8, 2011

You know you want this-Shabby Apple Giveaway

Yes, I'm still alive. I've been held up by my other blog, Pro-tography 101. I am back now, so I hope you forgive me. What? You don't?


Wellll... How about if I do a totally awesome giveaway to make up for it?? I thought that might work!

Have you heard of Shabby Apple? If you haven't, you've been missing out. The Shabby Apple carries a beautiful line of women's dresses , girl's dresses and accessories.


Dresses from Shabby Apple
Here is a little bit about Shabby Apple:


After years of not being able to find stylish dresses that covered enough skin to make you really feel comfortable (without wearing a tank top, cardigan or long slip), owners Emily and CK decided to do something about it.


They visited trade shows, marketplaces and designer studios only to discover the problem was not that department stores weren't buying the right dresses, but that designers weren't designing them. Shabby Apple is proud to offer you fantastic dresses that allow you to look fabulous, without having to compromise anything else.


A return to what dresses were always meant to be — a one-piece outfit. No need to add anything...no tank tops, no cardigans, nothing (except accessories, of course!).



They (Shabby Apple) are letting me give away one of their elegant dresses! I know-I'm excited too!


Here is the dress one lucky winner gets:


Bette D. Women's Dress



(Value: $88)



I know! Wow!


So, here's the nitty-gritty on how to win this:


Required entries:


-Follow me.


-Like Shabby Apple. (You will get access to special promotions!)


Make sure you leave a comment on here to enter!

-------


Extra entries:


- Like me on Facebook.


- Tweet about it.

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Two entries:


- Blog about the contest.


-Put me on your sidebar


Don't forget to leave extra comments for each extra things you do!


U.S. residents only, please.


Contest ends 4/29th


Prize will be handled directly from sponsor.

I will contact winner after contest ending. If you do not contact me within 48 hours, next random winner will be picked.

Monday, March 28, 2011

Grandbaby 2


I can't believe how time flies when you have little ones in your life. When my second grand baby came along, I was still getting used to little Zach. Averie is almost one now (7 months old to be exact) and ignorant me keeps trying to still buy her 3 month old clothes. I just can't believe she is so big already! I could just kick myself that I don't get more photo shoots out of her before she's old enough to run away from the camera.


I did end up grabbing her for an afternoon and managed to get some photos before she had enough of flashes and some big black box stuck in her face.








I picked up a cute dress and jean jacket (love jean jackets on kids) this weekend for an outdoor shoot we have planned if it ever gets warm enough.

Come on, don't you just want to kiss those cheeks?