So, all of the sudden, I started to pay pinterest some attention. Now, I am not sure if this is the new me. I don't know if I now become a temporary fanatic about new things. I just LOVE pinterest. It is freeing up some of my time and space. For me, pinterest is an enormous memory bank. There are so many things that I once wished I could bookmark and find at a later date. So many ideas and inspirations for a future birthday, move, or what have you. A lot of them are just gone. I don't have a good memory. I always had moments where I knew there was an awesome idea out there but I just didn't remember what it was, where I saw it, or how to find it.
It is also introducing me to a world of blogs that I never visited. I am very new at it but I think I am pin happy. Well, this is short and sweet. Here is the pin page if you want to visit. Feel free to leave yours in the comments so that I can see yours. :)
http://pinterest.com/momssecret/
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Runty, Trayvon, and Kony2012
I have enough thoughts in a day to support several blogs, so why do I not write? Well, I am slowly getting over the stage of grief that keeps you in your place unable to move. I am really happy about that. It is a slow process. Now that I am coming around, my eyes are being flooded by two main topics in the media today. I don't even have cable and I can't help but be in the 'loop' about these two topics. They are Kony 2012 and the Trayvon stories.
I have good, honest friends who speak their minds and I love that. I recently published an article to help save a dog from injustice and a friend of mine asked me why I was not compelled to write about the bigger stories out there. I was blessed with many opinions and most of them I do not share. I chose to be this way because I like to process information and see what new directions these stories are going to take. The reason that I wanted to write about Runty is because the family who would be against him had he done anything wrong, spoke out for him. Runty was removed from his home and is being held as a 'dangerous dog' without cause. This is simple. It is very black and white. What is happening to Runty does not have the issues of missing information that the other stories have. There is no 'what if' about it. Runty can't speak for himself so I am simply doing what I can to help. Another friend mentioned that Runty is in this position because his owner was negligent. She has a valid point. Now, that part of the story I don't have much to say about simply because this is something I will never know. Runty got out of the fence. I do not have details as to how long he was out or whether or not the owner new that the fence was being compromised. I know that I have my own experiences with doggie jail breaks. Fortunately, no one is afraid of my little shitzu monsters, but it took a few trials before I finally found a solution to her escape escapades. She also shared a tragic story of loss at the hands of a pitbull. I am not going on record defending the breed as a whole. I tend to deal with things case by case. The sad story of a wild dog killing is a terrible tragedy but the entire breed shouldn't be judged by the good stories or the bad. I shared the story of a good dog. Even if the owner were negligent, the dog has done nothing to earn the title of a 'dangerous dog'. If it is okay to do it to one dog, then expect to see more of it. For all of you big dog owners out there, the results of this case can affect you. Your dobermans and pits that like to bark are all going to be in jeopardy. Any scared kid or old lady can call your dog dangerous and have them taken from you even if they would never bite. Add to this the fact that there are no reform programs for dogs they way we have for people and it is safe to assume that your dog could be put down for no reason. That worries me.
Now for Trayvon. The loss of a young life is always tragic. I do not believe that we have to know everything about the person to agree on that. Whether they made good choices or bad choices makes no difference. 17 years old is not a long enough life for someone who is not battling illness. It is a useless death that didn't have to happen. That being said I will not be donning a hoodie. People are in an uproar about racial profiling that I fear is fueling the fire. I am not saying that racial profiling was not part of the story. Bigotry of all kinds exists today that will never truly be gone simply because as long as there are naive, close minded, and ignorant people in the world there will always be issues with one ism or another. No laws, no amount of time, no progression will be able to wipe ignorance off the face of this planet.
So, whose side am I on? I was never one to chose a side. I have no religious preference. I have no political preference. I believe not siding myself allows me to have a clearer view with no predisposed notions. It doesn't always work but I can't bring myself to claim my undying loyalty to anyone other than to those I love. You can win me one minute and lose me the next. It's based on actions.
My emotions are on the side of Trayvon's parents and family. They were the ones plagued with the death of such a young boy and if there is something I am an expert on now, its the toll death takes on the ones left behind. No matter what the outcome, this story is tragic and could have been avoided.
I do not feel sorry for Zimmerman. Intentions are not enough. He could have had the intentions to protect but the unfolding story tells me that he was overly vigilant. This caused him to jump to conclusions and I believe that it made him look for trouble. The thing is, what you look for most you are likely to find whether it is really there or not. It is like having a self fulfilling prophesy. This story is a great example of the reason that cops do not involve civilians in investigations. Now you arm an all ready overly vigilant man and you will eventually end up with a body. I honestly believe that this situation would have been in the cards for Zimmerman even if Trayvon was never in the area. It is really, hugely sad. Both sides of the story had the chance to back off and walk away.
Zimmerman could have fallen back after calling the cops. He didn't have to play detective and follow anyone. That behavior is offensive to anyone. Teenagers especially. Teenagers are passionate and dramatic by nature. Don't you remember how many times the world, as you knew it, was over as a teen? The class you failed, the guy you liked liking someone else, your friend is friends with someone you can't stand and all the other mellow drama. Trayvon probably felt that he was being disrespected and instead of going to his families house to share the story, he went to defend himself. No one every thinks that this person that ticked them off could do worse, especially teens. Everyone knows that teens can do anything and everything.
I wish that the police got there in time to stop this from happening. I wish that different decisions were made on that day. I wish that people stuck to fist fights like they did in the 80's when they used to get you down then walk away but these days people don't stop and they come armed. Zimmerman, being the adult in the story should have to account for his bad decision and the road that those decisions created. That is as far as I can go because I was not there. No one knows the true story and I am not a judge.
Kony 2012 --> This about fell out of the limelight because of the Trayvon story. There are a lot of questions as to the urgency of this issue. This represents an important cause that may or may not be a bit dated. The video put together was awesome and very inspiring. The rebuttals were equally interesting. There are concerns about where the money raised is going and how it is being used. There are doubts by a huge amount of people. Is this a pertinent enough issue to involve troops? Are there underlying interests? Some will support, others will not. Whether or not they are misguided, I was happy to see the amount of people that stepped up to help with something.
You have to admit that we live in a self centered world. This inspired masses to get involved in something. I do hope that it is not a disappointment for the masses and is the start of new things for society as a whole. If it is not a worthwhile cause, the cost was not too high. I looked up there site. The most common thing sold is their little kit with posters and such. It's $30. I don't see that as a huge, risky cost. I think it is funny that some thought they should know what percentage of the cost was being used for what services. The humor came from the fact that most of what we pay for is grossly over priced and no one asks what percentage of the $100 pre-broken in jeans are going to good causes. How much money of your restaurant trip is being used for worthy causes? The truth is that it doesn't matter. People go through $30 bucks in no time and really do not care what retailers do with their profits. So those who do not agree with any particular campaign do not have to find ways to discouraged those that feel compelled to help. Just as I said before, I will wait to see where it goes before I pick a side on the Kony situation.
So there it is my friend... this is where I stand on your important issues. I will see where they go...
Thanks for inspiring me to write.
I have good, honest friends who speak their minds and I love that. I recently published an article to help save a dog from injustice and a friend of mine asked me why I was not compelled to write about the bigger stories out there. I was blessed with many opinions and most of them I do not share. I chose to be this way because I like to process information and see what new directions these stories are going to take. The reason that I wanted to write about Runty is because the family who would be against him had he done anything wrong, spoke out for him. Runty was removed from his home and is being held as a 'dangerous dog' without cause. This is simple. It is very black and white. What is happening to Runty does not have the issues of missing information that the other stories have. There is no 'what if' about it. Runty can't speak for himself so I am simply doing what I can to help. Another friend mentioned that Runty is in this position because his owner was negligent. She has a valid point. Now, that part of the story I don't have much to say about simply because this is something I will never know. Runty got out of the fence. I do not have details as to how long he was out or whether or not the owner new that the fence was being compromised. I know that I have my own experiences with doggie jail breaks. Fortunately, no one is afraid of my little shitzu monsters, but it took a few trials before I finally found a solution to her escape escapades. She also shared a tragic story of loss at the hands of a pitbull. I am not going on record defending the breed as a whole. I tend to deal with things case by case. The sad story of a wild dog killing is a terrible tragedy but the entire breed shouldn't be judged by the good stories or the bad. I shared the story of a good dog. Even if the owner were negligent, the dog has done nothing to earn the title of a 'dangerous dog'. If it is okay to do it to one dog, then expect to see more of it. For all of you big dog owners out there, the results of this case can affect you. Your dobermans and pits that like to bark are all going to be in jeopardy. Any scared kid or old lady can call your dog dangerous and have them taken from you even if they would never bite. Add to this the fact that there are no reform programs for dogs they way we have for people and it is safe to assume that your dog could be put down for no reason. That worries me.
So, whose side am I on? I was never one to chose a side. I have no religious preference. I have no political preference. I believe not siding myself allows me to have a clearer view with no predisposed notions. It doesn't always work but I can't bring myself to claim my undying loyalty to anyone other than to those I love. You can win me one minute and lose me the next. It's based on actions.
My emotions are on the side of Trayvon's parents and family. They were the ones plagued with the death of such a young boy and if there is something I am an expert on now, its the toll death takes on the ones left behind. No matter what the outcome, this story is tragic and could have been avoided.
I do not feel sorry for Zimmerman. Intentions are not enough. He could have had the intentions to protect but the unfolding story tells me that he was overly vigilant. This caused him to jump to conclusions and I believe that it made him look for trouble. The thing is, what you look for most you are likely to find whether it is really there or not. It is like having a self fulfilling prophesy. This story is a great example of the reason that cops do not involve civilians in investigations. Now you arm an all ready overly vigilant man and you will eventually end up with a body. I honestly believe that this situation would have been in the cards for Zimmerman even if Trayvon was never in the area. It is really, hugely sad. Both sides of the story had the chance to back off and walk away.
Zimmerman could have fallen back after calling the cops. He didn't have to play detective and follow anyone. That behavior is offensive to anyone. Teenagers especially. Teenagers are passionate and dramatic by nature. Don't you remember how many times the world, as you knew it, was over as a teen? The class you failed, the guy you liked liking someone else, your friend is friends with someone you can't stand and all the other mellow drama. Trayvon probably felt that he was being disrespected and instead of going to his families house to share the story, he went to defend himself. No one every thinks that this person that ticked them off could do worse, especially teens. Everyone knows that teens can do anything and everything.
I wish that the police got there in time to stop this from happening. I wish that different decisions were made on that day. I wish that people stuck to fist fights like they did in the 80's when they used to get you down then walk away but these days people don't stop and they come armed. Zimmerman, being the adult in the story should have to account for his bad decision and the road that those decisions created. That is as far as I can go because I was not there. No one knows the true story and I am not a judge.
You have to admit that we live in a self centered world. This inspired masses to get involved in something. I do hope that it is not a disappointment for the masses and is the start of new things for society as a whole. If it is not a worthwhile cause, the cost was not too high. I looked up there site. The most common thing sold is their little kit with posters and such. It's $30. I don't see that as a huge, risky cost. I think it is funny that some thought they should know what percentage of the cost was being used for what services. The humor came from the fact that most of what we pay for is grossly over priced and no one asks what percentage of the $100 pre-broken in jeans are going to good causes. How much money of your restaurant trip is being used for worthy causes? The truth is that it doesn't matter. People go through $30 bucks in no time and really do not care what retailers do with their profits. So those who do not agree with any particular campaign do not have to find ways to discouraged those that feel compelled to help. Just as I said before, I will wait to see where it goes before I pick a side on the Kony situation.
So there it is my friend... this is where I stand on your important issues. I will see where they go...
Thanks for inspiring me to write.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Solivita Class Tuesday!
I love this part. Tuesday's class has over 40 people reserved! I love sharing the knowledge. I always get the questions about it being free. The class has so much to offer people. These classes are sponsored by The Simple Truth Foundation whose goal it is to help people save money on groceries, help support local food pantries, and save you money on your newspaper subscriptions. The revenue they build thru providing you with discounted newspapers pays for the classes and supplies. The classes teach money saving strategies for the normal everyday saver. They aren't really training courses for extreme couponing, although some have sharpened their skills enough to have achieved extreme savings.
On average, those that apply what they learn save 50-80% on their groceries. They also apply what they learned to save big on everything else that they buy.
Classes have been held in local schools, churches, businesses, charities, homes, and anywhere else you can think of. The groups have been as small as 12 people and have gone over 100.
It's a unique satisfaction for me to know that I have put an extra $100 or $200 dollars a month back into the wallets of some families.
If you are in the Central Florida Area and are interested in a class, send me your information and we can look into some dates. Now, I have to go prepare for this upcoming class.
Many Blessings!
Friday, January 13, 2012
ORLANDO SENTINEL ONE YEAR Subscription for ONLY $20!
There is a special offer on the paper that I have never seen before and I wanted to share it with you. I suggest you get 2 orders. Don't forget to put my name in as the affiliate so that I get my brownie points ;). I so wish I would have known about this one sooner. I paid like 80% more but can't complain. I have saved a ton.
Feel free to share it with whoever you like! The best part is that you are supporting an amazing local non-profit foundation.
Copy this link into your browser and access the offer. It will only be there for a couple of days! New Year, resolve to save! http://www.simpletruthfoundation.org/products-a-services.html
The Couponers Special, Wednesday through Sunday, is just $20 for the entire year. Yes, that’s not a typo, just $20 for the entire year! Only 39 cents a week to enjoy the paper delivered to your door! Room service for savings!
Monday, January 2, 2012
It is finally out! - Our Book
http://sbpra.com/LegacyReims/
After a long time waiting, my book is finally available for purchase at the above link. This book was written for my husband. He loved psycho-thrillers. He always watched cop shows on television. We had intended for him to read and own the first printed copy. That copy came in my mailbox exactly one month after he died. The entire thing is bittersweet and heart breaking for me.
The goal is to hit 500 copies to give my Prince's book a fighting chance. Much work ahead for someone who is tired and broken. Thank God for God. He is never broken.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Finally
AHA! I finally got the password. I have memory issues and honestly have not been writing much about this topic. My current status is an obstacle to say the least, but I am not too far. I have a couple of classes that are private but am expecting to book some more public ones soon. People find it odd that I enjoy doing the classes but am not a coupon blog site like couponers united and such. I am not the reinventing the wheel type of gal and love teaching.
Oh well, I am just happy that I got back into this thing. We will talk more soon...
Oh well, I am just happy that I got back into this thing. We will talk more soon...
Thursday, October 27, 2011
In the paper! 10/27
Get ready for the holidays. Today's paper came bearing a peelie/stickie for $10 off a $20 purchase at Bealls! Clearance items are included. What a great way to snag teenage clothing, something for the hubby, or any other adult you can think of.
Last time we were able to get an $50 shirt on clearance with coupon for $10!
Don't get the paper? Get started now by clicking here. You will not only get discounts on the paper but it comes with a $10 gift card per subscription!
The holidays bring great deals and coupons so now is the perfect time to subscribe!
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
In the paper today!
If you got home delivery of the paper today, check out you stickie in the front. It is for $5 off a $50 purchase at PUBLIX! Woo hoo, I am so excited. These are rare and just in time for the holidays.
Remember to give this coupon before your other coupons!
Don't get the paper yet? Get it in time for the holiday specials. Get it here for less plus enjoy a $10 Publix gift card per order!
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Legoland - Florida
Legoland is a great time for young kids! Read the review here...
Here are some tips to save you some money...
Look at the price of Wal-Mart and Publix tickets to save a bit on the gate price.
Pack a cooler full of lunch. You can't take it in, but you can go in and out as you please.
We usually plan to go out once for our lunch. The car picnic has proven to be a welcome, relaxing rest. We play music and eat then go go go!
Friday, October 21, 2011
Truth
Both of my dear friends thought that saving 50-90% on their groceries had to be complicated. They both have very demanding jobs and families and just felt that they didn't have the time to learn how to do this. Of coarse, you know that they are both going to my next class right...
So is it easy? At first no. It is something new that you are learning. You are changing some habits and organizing yourself a little differently. This learning curve, while extremely beneficial, can feel like extra work. Like other hugely beneficial things, the work is nothing compared to the reward. For some families, it can mean the difference between survival and failure.
It does, however, become extremely easy. I would say give it two months. By then, you will have gotten addicted to the savings, found your personal system, and will be able to know if you prefer paying a lot more.
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