Design (Decorating) Tip

As of this past Monday, fall is officially here!! As many of you start to pull out the fall decor'..here are a few suggestions to bring that warm, welcoming, cozy fall essence into your home.

• Vase Fillers: These can do wonders! You can get vases just about anywhere ( I love what Pottery Barn has to offer, but do what works for you)! Add some fall fillers such as; acorns, pine cones, apples, pears, and various others. You could use several vases of various sizes as a centerpiece on the table, or they can stand alone as accents! You can even incorporate candles into these (with certain vases)...
• Make Your Own Wreath: You can purchase the "bones" of the wreath at places such as; Micheal's or Hobby Lobby. Start with a wreath made of twigs and add your own arrangements by using artificial leaves, small plastic fruits and pumpkins, etc. All you need is a hot glue gun and you are on your way. It can be a fun project with the kids..and a way to express your own creativity!! It will also be one of a kind which is a major bonus.
• Paint: If you are up to taking on the task of painting, Sherwin Williams offers some fabulous fall paint tones. There is a link of the side bar which will take you directly to their website where you can browse around for some color ideas!! You may even want to just do an accent wall.

Happy decorating!!

Flu Season

Flu season is approaching. I know, seems to early to say that (and too hot, for us anyways). But, it is officially fall, so it is time to start thinking about these things! Well, if you have a Meijer by you, you are in luck, they offer flu shots! I am not sure how much they are, I think it goes through your insurance, so I would call your insurance company and see.
Anyways, if you are interested, click here to see the full schedule of when they will be administering them at your local Meijer!

That brings me to my next question. Do you get flu shots for your kids? I have some seasons and have not others. I really do not know if I saw a difference? So, I am a little confused as to whether this is one more chemical thing to put into my kids or just to pass....
Let me know your thoughts, I am all ears!

It's Finally Here!

Ok, I have been waiting a long time for this! It is the season premiere of Greys Anatomy! Yeah, I need to see how this all pans out.. Anyways, let me cover them all to be fair!

• 8:00 p.m.
• Ugly Betty (ABC) A bright but out of the ordinary looking woman is like a fish out of the water working at a glitzy high end fashion magazine. This is funny. I watched for 2 seasons, then, for some reason, I didn't have time, but I wish I did and will try to make time this season!
• Survivor:Gabon (CBS) This is for you dad! This is the 17th season! I remember Richard Hatch! Wow, well they are stranded in Gabon, Africa, competing for a cool million!
• My Name is Earl (NBC) Also a father's fave! A petty crook sets out to make amends in his life. He thinks karma is everywhere and is trying to fix his wrong doings!
• 9:00 p.m.
  
• Grey's Anatomy (ABC) I love it!! Fifth season opener..will Meredith and Derek fall back in love? What will happen with the rest of the interns turned residents? Stay tuned...
• The Office (NBC) This is also the fifth season opener which has Harry Crane punching in with Micheal Scott and co. at Dunder Mifflin.
• 10:00 p.m.
• ER (NBC) The beginning of the end. The final season of ER will have some surprise visits from old cast members...I am sure this season will be worth watching! I used to watch so long ago, but then life happened and I had to pick and choose. But, I really think this will be a good one!

There it is, the Thursday line-up....stay tuned for Sundays line-up...It's gonna be good!

Things We Love Thursday!!

Ok, the thing that I love is...my unlimited text messaging package on my cell phone! That probably sounds funny, but it is absolutely something I could not live without! Text messaging is great. I feel like many people are scared..they are not sure how to send a text, etc. It's a technological fear...I had it once too. But once I got over it, I had to switch to the plan. Here are the reasons you should try texting:

1. It is only around $5 to add the unlimited feature on your phone. Check with your service provider.
2. My nieces and nephews are beginning to get cell phones (they are rounding the teenage years) and it is a great way to communicate with them! They do not want to talk (they are a little "busy" these days) but they will answer a text in a second! They look cool, you get to find out how they are, etc. and everyone is happy
3. My husband can reply to my normal questions (when will you be home, when should I have dinner ready, what do you want for dinner, can you get some milk on your way home, etc.) while he is at work. I used to try to call, missing him most of the time for various reasons. Now he almost always replies!
4. I cannot talk on the phone! As soon as the phone hits my ear, the kids think it suddenly means "NO RULES HOUR>>>GO CRAZY!!!". So, when I need some important info., even just a "hi, everything ok?", I can get it.....shoot a text, one comes back and the kids did not even know I conversed with someone other than them!

So, there it is...all the reasons I love texting! It really is a great feature! You should try it out if you have not yet!

Freebie

Always Infinity is a new brand of a maxi pad coming out by Proctor and Gamble. They are not even available in stores until mid October, but if you click here, you can sign up to receive yours free and first!
Thanks heyitsfree!

More from the book of Titus

Last Sunday we continued more on the book of Titus. You see, our pastor is currently preaching a series called "The Church God Always Wanted". Each Sunday is a part of the series and we are currently focusing on Titus; as this is one of the book's that focuses on setting up the church. (Still applies to every church, as they are constantly changing and growing).

This book reminds us that by living God honoring lives, we are teaching new Christians (whether we realize it or not). Leading by example....

Titus 2: 7-8

7 And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. 8 Teach the truth so that your teaching can’t be criticized. Then those who oppose us will be ashamed and have nothing bad to say about us.

The pastor made a comment that I think that I will always remember. He said, "sometimes people live lives that are a mile wide an only an inch deep". Wow, what a true statement!! People can become so concerned with filling up their lives...and making them a "mile wide". But without substance....

He also reminded us that the way in which we live our lives today, is the way that we will be remembered. Truly something to think about.....

Mark Your Calender

Ok, for those in the Cincy region....mark your calenders. On Sunday, Oct. 5, The Extreme Makeover Home Edition that was filmed here is airing! If you live in the area, I am sure you remember when the Extreme Team was here in West Chester. Well, the show is airing on Oct. 5! So, set your DVR's....you won't want to miss this one!

Works for Me Wednesday

Clean smelling sponges:
I am posting this for Works for me Wednesday over at Rocks in My Dryer.
Ok, this is gonna sound weird, but I cannot stand kitchen sponges that have even the slightest odor. So, I have a few solutions.

1. Rinse your sponges with Hydrogen Peroxide. (I used to do this, but I have a new system)
2. I have 2 sponges. One is in the sink ( I do the cleaning and disinfecting with this one), and one is in the dishwasher (waiting to be washed). So, when I run the dishwasher, the one that was in there is clean and fresh and comes out and the other one goes in. I run my dishwasher about once a day, so I always have a clean sponge. This is environmentally friendly too. I can keep a sponge for awhile! They never really get the chance to get too dirty!
   

Free Cold Stone Creamery

The world's largest 7th annual ice cream social, which also supports the Make a Wish Foundation, will take place this Thurs. on Sept 25. Cold Stone Creamery will be donating 3oz portions of either "Jack" or "Emily" Creations (creations thought up by two wish children!). Donations will go to the Make a Wish Foundation. Please join in the fun for a good cause on Thurs. Sept. 25 between 5 and 8 pm!
Click here for more details from their website!

Wed. Night Premieres!

Here is the line-up for tonight's premieres!

• 8:00 p.m.
• The New Adventures of Old Christine (CBS) A divorced mom tries to move on after her ex finds love with a younger woman with the same name.
• Knight Rider (NBC) Remember this one? Blast from the past. Well, KITT is back in the form of a Mustang this time. He is fighting crime and people who are trying to steal him. If you liked it then, you'll probably like it now!
• 8:30 p.m.
• Gary Unmarried (CBS) A recently divorced man tries to readjust after 15 years of marriage while raising his kids and dealing with a controlling ex. Looks funny to me!
• 9:00 p.m.
• Criminal Minds (CBS) Watch as the fourth season opener answers the question "Whose SUV exploded?".
• 10:00 p.m.
• CSI:NY (CBS) This hit crime drama focuses on New York forensic investigators Stella Bonasera and Mac Taylor.
• Lipstick Jungle (NBC) Three New York women navigate the business world, friendship and romance in this comedy-drama. Great show! I will DVR it! I began watching last season and was hooked! I love this show!

Ok, there it is....good line-up for tonight! I am so so so excited for tomorrow night as my faves are on!
Click here to look at the rest of the line-up!

Free Simple and Delicious Magazine

I receive Simple and Delicious, the magazine and I love it! My mom keeps renewing my subscription and I love her for that! Anyways, go here and you can get a free issue! Worth a look!

Join the Fight Against Childhood Hunger

FREE insulated lunch bag designed by actress Monique Coleman

ConAgra food products are running a promotion right now. ConAgra products included in this are Peter Pan, Manwich, Chef Boyardee, Orville Redenbacher and Snack Pack. Those are all foods I have in my pantry, seeing as I have children.
It goes like this, purchase 6 of these Con Agra food products. Then, go here to download the lunch bag order form and you will receive the free lunch bag (3.oo shipping and handling). Then, ConAgra foods will donate one dollar to help fight against childhood hunger! Sounds great to me!

Scott and Carol Decker

I was reading my normal everyday blogs and I came across another charity challenge. I was reading about it and an hour later I am still reading about it! This is amazing. This weeks charity challenge is about a family, The Decker family, who really needs some donations and some prayers. Wow, they have been through so much! There is a synopsis of what they have been through here.
This is truly an amazing story of a woman and her family, she gave birth and the events that followed after are something you could not ever imagine..even one tenth of what they went through! Please read and, if it is all you can do, consider them in your prayers! They also have a way to donate to the family on their blog, if you are able to do so!
I believe this all started on June 9th and has been documented since. It is updated almost daily! I was a bit confused at first, but it is four months of documentation. This family is truly amazing and strong! I will keep reading and following and praying for this family!
Click here for a silent auction for them also.

Halloween Costumes

I am ahead of the game! I am never ahead of the game when it comes to Halloween. It has it's advantages and disadvantages...

• Advantages; We had a lot of costumes to choose from!
• Disadvantages; We might find something we bought cheaper; the costumes we bought might be worn out by Halloween (my son lives in his!); I have already returned one of my daughters and exchanged it and am thinking about doing it again!

But, this being said, look in your mailbox. I got a flyer for Party City (I feel like they would have the flyer in the store too, near the entrance or something?), and there are coupons...

1. $5 off any single costume purchase of 14.99-24.99
2. $10 off any single costume purchase of 25.00-34.99
3. $15 off any single costume purchase of 35.00 and up

This is a pretty good deal, considering what I paid and where. It says one week only, expires on 10/04/08....

Premiere Week! (the unofficial official one!)

Here it is! This is the week we have been waiting for. Sorry, I missed Monday premieres (there were tons!), sickness has knocked on our door, so a little disinfecting was in order today!
Here's the line-up for Tues. night:

• 8:00 p.m.
• Opportunity Knocks (ABC) Funny story here. We actually applied for this show. We spoke to them and they said they already had someone from our area, but they were keeping applications for next season! Hopefully! Anyways..they set up a real game studio on your street (our neighbors would freak out!) and you win things according to questions..looks sooo fun!
• NCIS (CBS) I guess this is your regular crime investigating show. I have never seen it, but I bet it is one of those really good intense shows I might be able to watch when my kids are older!
• 9:00 p.m.
• The Mentalist (CBS) A celebrated psychic uses his powerful gift of observation to assist the California Bureau of Investigation. Looks really good. I think it might be worth the time to watch!
• 10:00 p.m.
• Without a Trace (CBS) FBI missing persons unit in Manhattan solves cases about murder, kidnapping or simply people that wanted to "disappear". This is the season premiere, not series premiere
• Law and Order SVU (NBC) Another crime series, a 7 year old boy accuses his foster parents of abusive medical testing.

Looks like a great line-up...I think The Mentalist might be a really good show...
To see the schedule for premiere week click here.

Distinctively Dole

So, I bought Distinctively Dole salads from Meijer..they were BOGO and I had coupons, so I got them for next to nothing! Anyways.. the one I had was the "Hearty Italian" and wow, it was delicious! I will pay almost full price for these. I think they are about $3 when they are not on sale. I still have some coupons for them and some came in the bag of salad too...so I am so happy. Do you get that feeling salad always tastes the same when you make it at home? Same dressing, same everything? I do, but I tried this and it tasted like something from a restaurant! Great side dish!
If you go here, you can enter to win free Dole salad (you can enter everyday for ore chances!).

Kroger Deals

If you shop at Kroger you might want to click here for the latest deals 9/22-9/28.
Coupon links are included, so shop and save!
Thanks Stretching a Buck!

Teacher Appreciation

If you are one of those wonderful teachers who teach and help mold our children, Starbuck's would like to thank you! They are giving free coffee to teachers every Monday in the month of Sept.!
Just stop in with proof of your credential's and receive your complimentary 12 oz Pike Place Roast!

Thanks Coupon Cravings!

Homemade Glass Cleaner

I started reviewing all of my "homemade cleaning products", but I did not get to finish...Duty called (duty being a 2 yr. old that should have been in bed!). So here is my review on my glass cleaner

• Recipe
• Equal parts vinegar and water (that's it! How easy is that!)

Verdict: Love it! My Windex was beginning to leave my windows streaked, feel like I could never get them clean! My vinegar and water solution is great! It cleans windows so easily! I love it! 5 stars!

Kids Clothes

If you are like me, shopping clearance for children's clothes is next to impossible with the children with you. Even shopping for current things on sale is impossible. Well, I have found a solution that works so great for me! I shop online. My two favorite's are Khol's and Old Navy. I sit here, in my own home and take my time looking through everything (keeping the kids busy coloring, etc.). I can get such great deals! You can also enter coupon codes, which can be found online too! I shop through clearance, you enter a size and it sorts it out for you. No more searching through piles of clothes that have been rummaged through, screaming kids in tow! Shipping is also a good deal. I go for it when there is a special. Kohl's has 3.95 shipping right now (I think it is a special), Old Navy has $7 flat rate shipping. This is worth it when you factor time, gas money, hassle getting there and them not having anything in the size you need, etc.
I shopped Old Navy Maternity like crazy when I was pregnant! I loved it! If something didn't work out, I would return it in-store and receive full credit!
Definitely worth looking into!!!