Wordless Wednesday

A FACE ONLY A MOTHER COULD LOVE...

And Then There Was the Time I Ran Away From Home....

My eyes have been opened. I had forgotten how blessed I am but it has become very clear these past few days, that I really don't want to run away from home. Of course I only realized this after I had, in fact run away from home. Actually I flew away from home. You see I got to know some of the other mommy bloggers out there, and decided on a whim to fly from California to Arizon to visit with "my girls".  Sharon from Moms Mad House, who has guest blogged here on the Army, said "come on out". She graciously put me up for two nights. Both  her and Wendie from Odd Jobs Momma entertained me with poop stories and red wine. Wendie even picked me ( a complete stranger in real life) up from the airport. Sharon let me sleep in her sons room, fed me, watered me, and took me back to the airport. What I learned though all the poop stories and red wine is how wonderful most people really are. I am not one to normally suggest that you invite strangers to stay in your kids room, nor to get on a plane to meet total strangers, but this opened my eyes to how many good people there really are out there.

Even though my kids had driven me so mad this summer I hopped on a plane to visit people I had never met, after 10 hours away from them I was facetiming them and wondering why I had felt the need to get a whole state away. My husband took time off work to stay with said hooligans, I mean kids, while I ran away. Being a mommy is a tough job. No one understands it quite like another mom. Yes there are other mommys in California, but I really needed to run away from home in order to really appreciate coming home. My three days in Arizona with Sharon and Wendie were magical. I say that because when I returned home 90 degree weather was suddenly strangely cool compared to the 113 degrees of Phoenix in the summer. My kids whom had driven me completely mad, where desparate to make me happy and snuggle with me upon my return. MAGIC. And now they are back in school and the house is quite during the day and I can get stuff done. MAGIC.

And lets not forget, Gman came out of the basement and entertained all of you, whom I love, so I could runaway. I hope you all enjoyed his crazy sense of humor. Please comment and tell him that he needs to write regularly. He really is THAT funny. So with all that said I just want to say I am TRULY blessed. And check back Thursday, I have been convinced that I must share the Folsom Prison story.

Product Review- Riego Gluten Free Cheese Sauces

I had the pleasure of trying The Riega Gluten Free Cheese Sauces. There are four flavors, White Cheddar, Alfredo, Yellow Cheddar, and Pepper Jack. The cheeses come in a dry packet and all you do is add water and your favorite pasta. We do not eat gluten free but Iw as attracted to these cheese because they are GMO and MSG free. I do not eat alot of processed foods but cheese is the one thing I cannot live without. The sauces are so yummy that even my picky eater liked them. Here is how easy they are to use. Mix water and the package together, now you have a cheese sauce. Done. So you want to make Mac and Cheese for the kiddos for lunch, boil the mac, drain and add the sauce you just made. You need an idea for dinner? How about Yellow Cheddar Chicken and Rice? Something more spicey? Mix the pepper jack cheese sauce with salsa and pour over your chicken breast and bake. Looking for a little more sophistication? Try the Alfredo sauce over angel hair pasta. Still not sure? How about White cheddar sauce over broccoli? The owner of Riega Foods sent me 3 packages of each flavor. I have yet to try a combination that didn't work. Plus these are dry sauce packages so you can keep them in the pantry for those days when you don't know WHAT to make. Even better than trying these wonderful sauces? I get to give them away to the winner of my  Blog O Rama Give Away. Reiga Foods has kindly donated 3 packages of  each flavor for my winner and the same to be given to a friend of the winner. How can you loose? So I have to say I vote FAB for the Gluten Free Cheese Sauces.

These Sauces can be found at Whole Foods Markets in Arizona, California and New Mexico or online at ReigaFoods.com
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I received no compensation for this review other than the product itself.
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Fashion Friday- Fly Mommy Fly

            I was struggling to think of a topic for this week’s blog when I realized while I was packing for my vacation that the whole time I had been helping my mother get ready as well.  And so, I decided to write a few fashionable tips on how to make traveling not only easier but fashionable!

Planning

Research

-Make sure that before you decide what to bring you do all the research on where you’re going and what amenities the places you are going to provide, (i.e. hair dryers, irons, or laundry facilities.

List Daily Activities

-Once you have an itinerary, list out all the outfits or things you will need for them-shopping, horseback riding, sunbathing, dinner or a show.  Lay out all the clothes you would want to wear.

Finalize

-Once you’ve decided what you want to bring, lay everything out and create outfits.  This is the best way to make sure you have everything you need for your trip!  Accessories and shoes included!  Once you’re done go back one more time and see if there are any repeat pieces or pieces that can be used for multiple outfits i.e. denim shorts, or black slacks.

Weigh in on Shoes

-Shoes are weighty so choose wisely.  Try to choose shoes that are comfortable for what you are doing as well as shoes that go with a majority of your outfits.

Packing

There are several methods I prefer when packing.

Closures

-Keep all garments button and zipped.  I find that when you do this prior to packing that you can avoid a majority of those odd wrinkles that you get around the lapel, collar or fly.

Packing Your Luggage

-Pack heaviest to lightest.  Excluding suits, which I recommend should always be carried in a separate garment bag.  You should always pack your heaviest and bulkiest items in the bottom.  Shoes should go in first, followed by bottom weight items.  I.e. denim, tweed, skirts or slacks items these are a little more durable.  Following that I would then fold in your basics, which would be your cotton t-shirts and such, followed by your delicates.

Checklist

-An itemized checklist can be your best friend!  It does take a little time to construct, but by adding in the extra effort I have been lucky enough to avoid saying, “I can’t believe I forgot that!” On any of my trips!

Flying/Traveling

Carry On

-If you are checking a majority of your luggage, which normally you would if you are having an extended trip, I always, always, always advise that you bring a carry on with you.  And here is why.  You can keep all your valuable jewelry with you on your carry on, and this makes it stress free when wondering if the earrings your mother gave you will be safe on the luggage.  A carry on also allows you the ability to pack a small out fit change.  I always advise traveling extremely comfortable when you fly.  Your most comfortable denim, a cute basic cotton top and a light cardigan tucked away in your carry on incase it gets cold.  I also suggest for long flights, to pack your cell phone charger and a flight approved amount of perfume in case things get a little interesting.  Don’t forget your sunglasses!  P.s. keep all jewelry off of your person until after security, this gives you the ability to breeze through and then you can go ahead and adorn yourself after words.  And remember to wear shoes that slip on and off easily.

Once You’ve Arrived…

Well, once you have arrived to your destination you will have everything set in terms of making sure you look fabulous!  I hope my little tips and tricks will help you on any vacations that you may be taking.  And if you have any questions as to what you should pack for a certain destination, don’t hesitate to leave it in the comment box below and I can go ahead and make sure that I respond to you as quickly as possible!!!

Stay Fabulous!

Brandon Sapin

Our Kids Health vs Big Business and Corporate Greed. Does our ignorance play a part in this?

Article written and provided by Dr Marcus Edinger  www.advancedhealing.com 

Why do Walmart, Kraft and Coke Cola send Europe, pure, unadulterated versions of their food products and we get the versions that contain genetically modified ingredients, dyes, flavor enhancers and preservatives?

• Why did allergy to peanuts double from 1997 to 2002?
• Why do 1 in 17 children under the age of three have a food allergy.
• Why has there been a 256% increase in the rate of hospitalizations (doctors admitting patients not parents) related to food allergies.
• The fact is, that in 2008, Kraft removed artificial colorings, like yellow #5, and chemical sweeteners, like aspartame, from the products that they distribute in Europe, Australia, and other developed countries due to consumer concern over scientific studies that link these synthetic ingredients to hyperactivity and asthma in children. But, they haven't done the same thing here in the U.S.!

Robyn O’Brien shares her personal story and how it inspired her current path as a "Real Food" evangelist. Grounded in a successful Wall Street career that was more interested in food as good business than good-for-you, this mother of four was shaken awake by the dangerous allergic reaction of one of her children to a "typical" breakfast. Her mission to unearth the cause revealed more about the food industry than she could stomach, and impelled her to share her findings with others.

Watch this video (HERE)

About this speaker:

Robyn authored "The Unhealthy Truth: How Our Food Is Making Us Sick and What We Can Do About It." A former Wall Street food industry analyst, Robyn brings insight, compassion and detailed analysis to her research into the impact that the global food system is having on the health of our children. She founded allergykidsfoundation.org and was named by Forbes as one of "20 Inspiring Women to Follow on Twitter." The New York Times has passionately described her as "Food's Erin Brockovich."

**What is going on right now - One man’s mission to educate children, parents, teachers and administrators about proper nutrition in schools and at home -  Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution ABC Tuesday’s 8:00pm

In America and England we feed our children very poorly in school. I am discussed when I see what is served in my daughter’s grade school and after-school daycare. If you really want to be upset, checkout how children eat at school in other countries.

 - France's Gourmet School Lunches (5:56)

 - School lunches in Italy (5:16)

 - School Lunches in Japan (1:58

Wordless Wednesday

The Dirt! Sheila K WTF? Are you Serious?

ADAM  aka Adam Gman aka Grossie aka Sheila K   

Sheila K WTF?


Entrenched in the Orange County, CA music/surf scene, since the age of fourteen, Adam Grossman is well established in the OC music community. In addition, he has spent over a decade in the Action Sports Industry, mastering the art of guerilla/grassroots marketing, with Adam leading many of the most successful campaigns.  In 2009, the gears shifted to philanthropy, and he developed several "on" and "off-line" programs/campaigns for celebrities outside of "The Orange Curtain", including Al Unser Jr, The Backstreet Boys, Rob Thomas, Carnie Wilson, and Erik Dickerson, just to name a few.


As a musician and a drummer, Adam has toured the US and opened for legendary acts such as Billy Idoll, Bad Religion, Pennywise, Circle Jerks, The Offspring and many more. After spending many hours and several recording sessions in the studio with punk superstar Greg Hetson (Bad Religion), and producers/engineers Steve Kravac and Jim Monroe, Adam grew to become much more than "just the drummer".  As a composer, Adam has written music for the Sony/ATV/Getty Images Spin City Music Library and currently is assisting in building www.number7records.com out of NYC/OC/LA where he holds the title VP West Coast Operations..


Now that the cat is out of the bag, the formalities are out of the way and Michelle is no longer locking me in her basement, I figured I would take the time and energy to extensively Q&A  myself regarding, life, liberty and the pursuit of building  a "Real Army of Moms"  




Disclaimer

Some of you may love me, others may not..  Some may questions my views and others may not. Some may find me funny and some may think I am a complete idiot.  Offensive?  Sometimes  Obnoxious ?  Most of the time... However... Keep in mind, like it or not, whether we are male or female... we all have the most wonderful commonality.  A Mom!  in addition, as you get to know me , you will realize that I am almost just as much of a Mom as the rest of you. 


First of all In my quest for knowledge, let me ask "The Army" (all of you except Michelle) a couple of questions


Is this what they consider a feminine side?  Are the things that I do on a daily basis, similar to being a Mom? Should I take my friends seriously when they joke about my mannary glands? When I feel like shit during the day, is that similar to PMS?  Why do I suddenly feel the need to shower more than 2-3 times a week? How many jacuzzi sessions equals one shower?  Do I look fat in these pants? How many calories in that Six Dollar Westen Bacon Cheeseburger? 
If I look in the mirror and straighten my eyebrows, is that not manly?  

OMG ! What has my life become?  None of these things are normal for me... You see, I am a Punk Rock Dad!  Rough, tough  rude, crude,  obnoxious and free of any of these concerns.


However... over the last couple of years, things have changed and continue to change drastically. You see... being bound to the house full time, caring for my mother in law, an 81 year old granny child, sure makes me think about things that are typically irrelevant in my book.  It truly makes me feel like I am becoming a MOM.  Alzheimer's Sucks!  


Any advice for a Dad like me is always welcomed and greatly appreciated.




OK... D-D-D-Down to biz... Time for a little Q&A with little 'ol me.


Grossie:  Now before we get heavily into this, I have to ask you the most obvious question of all. Sheila K WTF?


Adam Gman:    Well it has everything to do with Carnie Wilson of Wilson Phillips.  Yeah, I know...  Wilson Phillips has never been in my vocabulary, let alone my CD collection nor will it ever be... YUCK!   


However... When, I met Carnie, I realized how terribly people spoke of her for being fat.  FAT! So f-ing what!   I was working on a project for her at the time and for some reason, I was compelled to write a nice little promotional piece in Carnie's defense. I was the fat kid growing up so I could totally relate.


It was hard promoting Carnie Wilson in the light of "my" peers, therefore I went under cover as Sheila K. 


Grossie: Dude! I can't believe you told me that. OUCH!  That sucks... OK Sheila  What's your affiliation with Real Army of Moms and what qualifies you to be in "The Army"?


Adam Gman: It's funny you ask...


Grossie: Why's that?


Adam Gman:  I started it. lol


Grossie: Right Guy or Sheila K or whoever you are.  How'd you do that Mr. Mommas Boy? Was it  because you could wear a bro-zier?


Adam Gman: Not!  Because I could... I thought of it first, plus I needed a place to post that Carnie Wilson story, that I didn't want my friends to see me promoting.  Could you imagine all the shit I would take if the guys saw me promoting Carnie Wilson.   I'm just sayin...


Grossie:  Now I've heard it all...  So what's the story with this Michelle chick?  How did you guys hook up?

Adam Gman:  Well... I met Michelle while playing in a project with her brother, Bobby Springston of the band The Bangkok Five.  Since then,  we have become friends and have started several small, successful business ventures together.  When I told her the Sheila K predicament, she just laughed. Then told me that there was a whole army of moms out there that would read my stuff. That's when the lightbulb went off in my head.  I thought is was a great idea to build an army of Moms. Not just any army, but a "Real Army of Moms".  There ya have it!


Grossie: Wow you are pretty lame.  What are you gonna bring to the site and why all of a sudden are you coming out of the closet with your Mommy fetish?


Adam Gman: Hmmm... Good question.  I don't know...I might plug one of my many celebrity friends and help them with some promotional love.  I may interview a band. I may interview one of my hero's or even a random Mom.  All because I am in that kind of mood.  I might  review products or tell a few jokes.  I may whistle a tune or write a song. I may do a drum solo or play the guitar.  Just because I can... 


But... Most importantly, I will help Michelle keep it fresh with interesting and humorous things... Spanning from intellectual thoughts to just plain old shit talking and everything in between...   


Oh... and It's not a fetish. It's just fact. Moms are the best. 


Grossie: Well Well Well... I got you now.  You realize that I am gonna tell everyone on your facebook that you are secretly a Mom, wear a cooking apron and you love Carnie Wilson.  I'm thinking of making up some shit too.  Hey dumbass, are we through yet?  I'm going Surfing.


Adam Gman: Yeah we're done. Pick me up on your way, I am feeling the need.




In closing, I want to thank each and every one of you ladies and gentlemen, for joining The Real Army of Moms.  Spread the word as we have only just begun.


Stay tuned. A mind that works like mine, is a terrible thing to miss.


Adam G
Real Army of Moms

Book Review: The Story That Must Be Told True Tales of Transformation

Book Review

Title: The Story That Must Be Told True Tales of Transformation Volume 1

Edited By: Irene Watson and Victor Volkman

Summary: What will you do when life puts you to the Ultimate test? This slim volume contains 21 true stories of courage, love, endurance, and undying hope from people around the USA and UK. Follow each of our authors as they detail what it took to face impossible circumstances and powerfully transform them into forgiveness, understanding and grace.
Are you...
* haunted by a past event?
*hoping to make a brand new start?
*unhappy with how your life turned out?
*searching for the secret to full esteem?
*blocked by unfinished business you can't resolve?
*wanting to explore or renew your relationship with God?

If you answered "Yes" to any of these questions, then this book is for you to start  ( or re-start) your personal journey of transformation.

Review: I read this book in one afternoon. I could not put it down. each story was more moving than the last. The people were well developed so that you really care about what happens to them and that they have transformed. Each persons story is only a few pages long so I picked up the book expecting to read a story each day. Instead, I READ THE WHOLE THING! When I wandered out of my bedroom it had grown dark and I had missed dinner. But it was worth it. I didn't necessarily like each of the characters but I liked that that had mad a change for the better. After reading this book I felt a renewed belief in the truth that we each have the chance to change our circumstances no matter how unlikely it may seem. I would recommend this book. definitely a FAB choice for reading as the seasons change.

Fashion Friday- Gifts For Those Who Give

Now, although I know that Christmas is still 4 months away, the other day I was shopping for a gift with my best friend when my best friend turned to me and asked, “What’s a cute little gift to get for a mom?” Then it struck me, save for Christmas and Birthday’s, I should write a blog about cute little gifts we can give to mothers, when we are saying thank you, or congratulations to them for something they have done. So down below I’ve listed some fashionably fabulous gifts that will serve as great ideas for your families, or for yourself to give to your friends that won’t break the bank!

Wine charms/Wine stopper: Do you know mother who likes her “me” time? This gift is great because it’s a thoughtful gift that one can use to add a simple touch to a gift already being given. Wine stoppers are used to preserve wine, and they come in a slew of different designs, from blown glass detailing to beautiful crystal monograms. Speaking of the wine, I’ve seen adorable wine charms come with little pendants such as high heels, lipsticks, purses and tiara’s. So the next time you are showing up at maybe an Independence Day event, or maybe a block party, or house warming party throw on a little wine charm for an added touch.

Purse Hangers are another great gift. When was the last time you were at a restaurant searching for a clean spot to place your purse? Well a purse hanger is

a thoughtful trendy gift to give fashionable mothers. These little gems come in all shapes and sizes. They can be as simple as a stainless steel hanger with a small gem, to as elaborate as monogramed hanger with inset stones. But no one will doubt the usefulness of this little gift. If you’re at a dinner table, it can be uses. Do you know a working mother who is always on the go? For a working mom, a business card holder can be an extremely thoughtful gift. Whether buying for a

mother who works for an office, or maybe a mother who runs a business from home, this gifts come in a variety of fun forms. Whether it’s a sleek, simple black case, to jeweled cases with images of Betty Boop or Lucille Ball you can find one to suit every mother’s personal taste. These gifts are great to give for maybe a promotion, new job or maybe a mother starting up her own business. Every mother needs a mirror in her purse, why not buy her a wonderful mirror with her initial monogrammed or a cute jeweled image or emblem.

Take vitamins or medicine daily? A lot of these pill cases come with beautiful natural engravings to wonderful crystal designs. They are easy to fit in most any purse, and are extremely functional from vitamins to required medicine, they never

lose their use! And Finally, know a mother who wears corrective lenses or loves her sunglasses? This gift is extremely useful, how many times have we heard a story where someone sat on their glasses, or threw it in their purse and it came out scratched and damaged. Eyeglass holders have come a long way; I’ve seen a ton with great prints and decals, even some with minor decorations. Again a great functional gift to give! There you go! Hopefully, the next time you think, “What should I get her?” Or maybe you want to drop a hint to the family you’ll have some ideas to choose from. These gifts are great to give, won’t break the bank, and will keep you absolutely fabulous! Remember stay fabulous…Brandon Sapin

HOW Much More of THIS Can I take ?!

As most of you moms, I too am preparing my children to return to school. Frankly I was really excited to see them go back until I started thinking about how last year began.

Last year, after the first day of school, my oldest son ( the Tech Monkey) says to me in the car driving home " Mom I am being discriminated against." I am thinking how can this have happened on the FIRST day? So like all good moms, I interrogated him. " What do you mean by discriminated?" It's a big word after all maybe he didn't really mean what that word means right? " Well," he begins " Our teacher was outlining the class rules for this year and he said that if a boy raises his hand and asks to go to the bathroom during class it will not be allowed. Boys must use the restroom during lunch and recess, but GIRLS ( the emphasis was his) can raise their hands in class and they WILL be allowed to go to the bathroom! That is discrimination." The Tech Monkey was indignant. I had to try not to laugh. The tech monkey was starting 6th grade. Sixth grade girls are fertile. I had never found a reason to relate menstruation to my BOYS. I am thinking that it is something they really don't need to know about until later anyway. But I was SOO wrong. Because now I had an indignant sixth grade boy telling me that he was being discriminated against.  My parents always spoke about these kind of things in very clinical terms so I decide that that is what I will do for my kids. I tell the Tech Monkey " Honey, your teacher is not discriminating against you. Girls your age have a biological reason for needing to go to the bathroom at a moments notice. They can't plan ahead like you can." This is not good enough for the Tech Monkey he starts pestering me as to what biological reason they could possibly have that makes them have to go potty. I tell him you really don't want to know the specifics, it will gross you out. He keeps pestering until finally his father comes home, and he asks me AGAIN. So now that Agent Daddy is home to pick of the pieces of my grossed out son I lay it on him. " Girls have blood that comes out between their legs. They have no control over when it happens or how much comes out so they have to go to the bathroom to clean themselves and make sure they don't bleed on everything." By this time the Tech Monkeys eyes are round as saucers, and his chin is on the floor. He starts shaking his head and walks away. I am a little concerned so I follow him. He goes and finds Agent daddy and tells him what I said and asks " Does that REALLY happen? or is mommy just teasing me?" Agent Daddy says " No son, it really happens." So the Tech Monkey turns to me and says " Does that happen to you?" and Agent Daddy says " Son you have no idea."

So that little piece of embarrassment, was just the first in a long litany of puberty questions I was subjected to all last year. As I look back and remember last year I wonder HOW much more of THIS can I take? Why is Agent Daddy never around we we have to talk about this stuff?
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Wordless Wednesday-Why you never let daddy babysit part 2

You Like ME! You REALLY Like Me!

WOW I am so humbled. I have been awarded The Versatile Blogger award! I have actually been awarded it TWICE!( Before I could post this I was awarded it AGAIN! This time by Mama-Press) I kinda forgot to follow the rules the first time but maybe I can make it up here. The first time I was awarded it by Confessions from Boys Town. She is an AWESOME mommy blogger and part of my MOB. ( Mothers of Boys). Funny and insightful I was so blown away by the honor that I ran around for a whole week telling strangers about my award and then forgot to mention it on my blog or the other blogs I follow and love. Then Insignificant at Best, graced me with the award AGAIN! I am so honored and speechless...ok not speechless, I am pretty much NEVER speechless, but really really touched by you ladies thinking that I rank with you in awesomeness. WOOT WOOT!  And Now AGAIN Mama-Press has awarded me too. Sometimes I think that no one is actually reading my blog except me and certain family members that I blackmail into reading it. But now I know that YOU, my funny and wonderful other mommy bloggers, are out there reading and you LIKE me. This is incredible! Okay, Okay, to the rules that I forgot to follow last week.
The Rules of accepting the Versatile Blogger Award are:
1. Thank the person who gave you the award and link back to them in your post.
2. Share 7 things about yourself
3. Pass this award along to 15 recently discovered blogs (contact them to let them know).
Okay this whole share 7 things about myself, since messed up last time I will tell you 14 things. If you ask I will pretty much tell ANYONE EVERYTHING about myself but lucky you I only have to do 14 things.

THANK YOU 

Confessions from Boystown , Insignificant at Best, AND
Mama-Press
 
1. I am a hot mess. I rush around, set timers and have my cell phone remind me to pick up my kids from school.
2. I am a blonde. As if you couldn't tell from my crazy antics.
3. I have big boobs, knockers, cans, rack, headlights,melons, etc. I have heard it all and find it hysterical that men are so obsessed with them. And yes they are real. Hey does that count as three things?
4. I have 3 boys, 9,11,45.
5. I am 7. Because 4+3=7. I decided when I turned 35 that adding the numbers was WAY better than just plain old telling people my age.
6. Agent Daddy HATED me after our first though sixth dates. He would call the person who introduced us after every date and tell them he was NEVER going out with me again. After the sixth time he did that the person who introduced us told him to stop calling her until he REALLY stopped dating me. That person was in our wedding three years later and was unbelievably smug.
7. I have slept in the parking lot of Folsom Prison. Long story.
8.I was engaged 2 times before I met Agent Daddy. I was the original runaway bride.
9. I have married Agent daddy 3 times.
10. I have never been divorced.
11. I have ADD. I have a hard time focusing. Which goes back to number one.
12. I often listen to my children play and wonder if I should be proud or disturbed. They know more about guns and tanks than most Marines.
13.I LOVE Pawn Stars and have been to their actual shop in Las Vegas.
14.I live in California now but I have lived in 5 countries on 3 continents.

Here are 15 of My favorites in no particular order:

1.Moms Mad House
2. Far From Camelot
3.Insignificant at Best
4. Cool Beans Mommas
5. Mrs. Marine
6. Mrs No No Knows
7. The Bloggess
8. Spilled Milkshake
9. The ButterBottom Blog
10. The Divine Secrets of a Domestic Diva
11. Confessions From Boystown
12. My Dishwashers Possessed
13. The Mommy Therapy
14. Mommy LaDy Club
15. Mama-Press
Please stop by and check them out…they are some of my favorite reads!

Product Review- BEDE Trends Watch

Be Everything. Do Everything.- BEDE Trends has a great slogan and a really rocking looking watch. So when they asked me to review it for them I was super excited.

This is the actual watch they sent me. I was allowed to pick the color, YEAH, and so will the winner of the BLOG O RAMA 2011 Give Away. That's right folks this watch can be yours FREE if you are the winner. But if you can't wait and have to have it now, and frankly I wouldn't blame you, Click HERE to BUY it NOW.

I love a funky watch. It can dress up an outfit, be a statement piece, or just tell you what time it is. I have been wearing this watch for a little while now and I really love it. I was not expecting such a big watch but it is not overwhelming on my tiny hand and it is big enough that people notice it. I really like to have a statement piece that makes people come up to me and ask me about it. My BEDE Watch did not disappoint. The first day I wore it out I was asked by people in line with me about it. Which of course I LOVE. The band is rubber and it is hot ( summer and all) so I did notice it getting sweaty. I put a little powder on the band and problem solved. One of the really unique characteristics of this watch is that the face comes out and can be put into any of their other colored bands. This makes for endless color combinations, which I also LOVE. Dalhia Berugo, founder and creative Director of BEDE Trends  says they have really had no complaints from customers regarding the quality and timekeeping ability. And for the price of $25.00 that makes me happy. Quality and fair price are important in this economy. The bands are sold alone for $10 each. So If you have several favorite colors that you wear (like me and pink) you can buy another band and not have to fork out the cost of the watch face. Again a really good value.

BEDE trends has several other items for sale besides the watches and again you really should hop over to their website and check them out. You can click HERE and I will send you straight there.
On my scale of Fad or Fab I give this a  FAB.

Fashion Friday-Finding the Perfect Hairstyle

Okay Ladies, I brought you Brandon Sapin, Stylist to the STARS to help you get your Fashion on. He told you how to clean out your closet, find the clothes for your body type, get back into fashion after an illness or pregnancy, what sunglasses to buy for your face, and how to find your style. But I know that you also need a great hairstyle. One that makes you feel beautiful and works with your life style. So today I am bringing you my very own hairstylist Shawna Bessler to tell you how to find your hair style. Shawna has been in the biz for more than 20 years and I think that she is the BEST. So I asked her to share with you, my lovely readers, how to find the PERFECT hairstyle- Real Army of Moms

Have you ever had a bad hair cut? Have you ever felt like you had to hide your hair under a hat? Well we can change that for you you by finding out what kind of face shape you have. Face SHAPE has alot to do with the type of hair cut you should have. Your hairstylist should consult with you on the best styles for you face. Sometimes a hairstylist will just do what you tell him or her to do thus resulting in a less than great look for you. So lets get to it:

OVAL: The oval face can wear the widest variety of styles. Just about any style whether short medium or long will look good on the oval face. Most models have that shape of face. Ovals should avoid heavy bangs or hair that is too heavy around the face, it would appear to add weight to the face which we know NO ONE wants.

RECTANGLE: The rectangle face shape appears long and slender, narrow chin and narrow forehead. The rectangle face should consider a short or medium length hair style.  If you wear your hair too long with a rectangular face it will make your face appear longer, bringing everything downwards. Try light wispy bangs to cut some length off. When the hair grows below the shoulders it does more harm than good for you.

ROUND: The round face is full looking at the chin, cheeks and hairline.  A round face should wear short  hairstyles that are swept away from the face. Longer it should be layered, full on top, with wispy's around the face to make it appear thinner. If you cut hair right at the chin length you add weight and appear rounder.

SQUARE: The square face shape is a strong, square jaw and square hairline. NEVER cut the hair at chin length for this face shape. It makes it look even more square. If you like bangs do a side bang, not a full straight across bang. Side parts and a little layering looks good on a square face. You can add a little lengthto the face by adding some height to the hair at the crown but don't go all Snookie on us with the hair clip.

HEART: the heart shaped face is wide at the hairline and temples and narrow at the chin. This face works best with the bob haircut or short hair cuts in general. If you go short, avoid too much height in the crown, it will make your chin seem longer and more narrow. Try a cut that emphazes your great cheek bones.

TRIANGLE: The triangular face shape is the reverse of the heart shape. Narrow at the hairline and temples and wider at the chin. Short hair cuts are GREAT in this face shape. Keep it full with lots of height on top, lots of layers, closer on the neck, and narrower on the jawline.

DIAMOND:  The diamond shaped face is a cross between the heart and a dramatic oval shape. It is widest at the cheekbones, and narrowest equally at the hairline and chin. This shape can wear a wide variety of styles. Try not to wear too much hair on the face covering you features.

Everyone deserves a great hairstyle and they can have it too. Consult with your hairstylist. It's all in the know. And remember it's only HAIR!.
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Shawna Bessler is a hairstylist in Southern California, to contact her for a consultation or style click HERE.
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It's a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

Neighborhoods are funny things. They are where you live but they also have a life of their own. Neighborhoods have schedules to keep and an appearances to make. But the neighbors themselves also leave an impression on us. My next door neighbor to the right runs a day care. Since my kids were never in day care they believed she had 20 kids. They wanted me to go next door and get them another brother because " Miss Kelly has extra." When my oldest started school he saw kids going to a "special" area of school to play after school got out. He was mad at me for not letting him stay and play with the other kids. I tried to again explain daycare to him but he was convinced I was just being mean.

My next door neighbor on the right is a divorced man. He was divorced before we moved in 13 years ago and long before my oldest was born.  My sons often tell me they want to be like Mr. Tom cause he doesn't have anyone to tell him what to do and he has a cool car. When I ask if they ever want to be married and have kids they tell me no.  I am not sure if that is a result of Mr. Tom's cool car or the age...either way Mr Tom is the "cool" guy cause he gets to do whatever he wants according to the kids.

Two doors down is a little boy my youngest son's age. He goes to daycare in the summer when he is not with his father so my youngest is forever asking when his friend will be home so they can play. Problem is he gets home at dinner time and during the school year that leaves little time to play. The only other little boy in the neighbor hood is 5 a whole 4 years younger then my youngest. That little boy LOVES my boys but of course they think he is a pest. I try to remind them that they were pests once too but to no avail. This little boys mom, Miss Melanie, loves them and they love her. How she can continue to love my boys when they are forever trying to ditch her kid I will never understand. She is a better woman than me.

Across from Miss Melanie live Mr Gary and Miss Claire. They think my girlfriend Gary is their friend and often go over and play with his dog or ask to feed the tortoise. They refer to him as Mr. Gary. Mr Gary has all kinds of neat tools and cool stuff to tell me about when they wander home. Mr Gary raised two boys who are now in their late 20's. He understands their curiosity but doesn't always have the patience for them. He is a much better girlfriend. He shops with me and we do lunch while our respective spouses are at work.  I try to keep the boys from bugging him too much.   He is a retired crime scene investigator and I am afraid of the things he could teach them. I have seen some of the pictures he took in the course of his life and they are pretty creepy. He has one of the scariest houses on the block come Halloween.

But all in all we have a great neighborhood and I think that it has been a good place to raise my kids. When we did the Mentos in the 7up experiment, the boys knocked on doors and all of these wonderful people came out to watch my kids create an explosion.  My neighbors continue to answer the door even when my kids are selling something for school and never make a mean comment when they catch me in my pj's at 11am. This is a GREAT neighborhood.

Wordless Wednesday- Why you never let daddy babysit

Your Mama is a PERVERT Magnet

If you read my blog on a regular basis you maybe surprised to know that I actually try to be a good example to my children.I do not always succeed, but I try. For example I  try not to swear. My children are forever crying out "MOM! That's a bad word." And I am for ever apologizing, " I am sorry I should not have said that but..." I know that I should not try to mitigate the fact that I used bad language but sometimes you gotta swear to make your point. See I just did it again. BAD MOM! I also try to eat healthy. No processed foods, only whole, organic, and no GMO's. I am probably 70% successful at that. Which is a C- and I truly feel bad about that. I mean my kids deserve at least B effort from me on their behalf but I am SLACKER as well. I try to keep my room clean but without Agent Daddy that would be a lost cause.  Making the bed is a HUGE commitment for me. I mean when you make the bed you are saying "Ok, I am not going to go back to bed and try to start this day over." I am really not able to make that kind of commitment at 7:00 in the morning. I try to remember to say Please and Thank You EVERY time, including to my children, sadly my kids are the better example of how to do it right and often.

But one thing I do actually succeed at being the good example at is volunteering in my community, the kids school, and local charities. Usually this volunteering involves fund raising or sitting at a booth in the heat answering questions and/or selling stuff to raise money for a good cause. Funny thing about me is I have never met a stranger. I can talk and talk. My nick name as a small child was motor mouth. What got me in trouble in school is now what makes me valuable in my community. Go Figure. The other funny thing is that  since I got boobs I am magnet for every old PERVERT in the universe. Agent daddy actually thinks it is hysterical that all the old guys with walkers and wheel chairs ask me for my telephone number. When I am in my everyday life and one of these "gentlemen" approaches me I tell them "My husband is a jealous man and he has a gun." this usually sends 90% of them on their way. There is always that one guy who is sure that I am joking about the gun.  So my best line is "You know the last guy my husband caught me with hasn't been seen in 5 years. I hope he just moved away but there was a shovel and gravel in the back of our car so I am a little worried. Do you think I should call the police?"

But when you are volunteering you have to be nice to the suckers, I mean , "gentlemen" who come to your booth. I am there to sell and/or inform. Not to scare old men, although it is fun. So I have to be more subtle when letting my admirers know that I am not interested. Unfortunately the other people I volunteer with have decided that using my pervert magnet is the best way to break all sales records, so they encourage these guys to stay a while. I am not sure what seeing mommy being chased by old perverts is teaching my kids, but I am sure that someday they will say to me " Mommy why do all the old guys always hit on you?" and with the wisdom that has been the hallmark of my parenting style I will reply "Your mama is a pervert magnet."

Product Review- The Good on Ya Bar

About 3 years ago I started feeling...well just not myself. I thought that it was stress because my father in law was dying. So I started to look for ways to get my energy back. I wanted to find some way to "fix" the problem. What I discovered was that my body was "starving" for nutrition. All the processed foods that we were eating were making us fat and tired. So we made a change to eating more organic whole foods. When I came across these bars I was excited. NO GMO's ( Genetically Modified Organisms), No Soy, NO Dairy, 60% RAW, Gluten Free. All the stuff I am looking for in a food source.

Good On Ya Bar describes it self this way:

Our motto is “Every Ingredient Matters” because every single thing that goes into each organic nutrition bar has a nutritional purpose. There are no fillers. Other companies bulk up their bars with things like puffed brown rice. Sounds healthy, and it’s not that it’s bad for you, it’s just nothing. It’s air. It’s a filler. Our bar weighs 57g, and when you see one you will notice the size. There are bars out there that are 3x as big and weigh 40g.

It was created by Kris Fillat a former field hockey player from the United States, who made her international senior debut for the Women's National Team in 1990. Playing as a forward, the former student of the University of Iowa was a member of the team, that finished fifth at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia.. When she retired after 11 years as a athlete she started a healthy food store and this was an off shoot of that deli.

But enough about how the bars are made I know you want to know WHAT DO THEY TASTE LIKE?  Calm down I am getting to that. Kris sent me one of each of her 3 flavors to try. There is the Breakfast Bar, the Peanut Butter Bar Dark Chocolate , and the Peanut Butter Honey Bar. Now I have young boys, one of whom is a picky eater, so I wanted everyone to try ALL of the bars.

Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate: I love dark chocolate and was surprised to see something that was so healthy have chocolate on it but it does and yum. I liked the taste and the texture. I want to say that all the bars were very chewy. You really had to eat the food. Unlike a lot of the bars you can just scarf down this bar made you stop and chew. And not in the bad way of it is so hard to chew you get tired and give up. But surprisingly this was not my favorite of the three. Agent Daddy tried it and liked it too. The boys...not so much. They both ate a bite but that was all. We ate this bar warm  and a little melted. Not what I would recommend doing. We really liked the bars chilled

Breakfast Bar: After eating the first one warm we decided to put this and the last bar in the refrigerator over night. The Breakfast Bars is my favorite of the three bars. It is like trail mix and oatmeal mixed in a bar. Hard to describe but I found myself wishing I had another one. Not that I was hungry, even though I shared the bar with 3 other people, I just like the taste so much I kept wishing there was some left. The boys tried this one too and didn't like it but they still are mad at me for not buying crap like chips and soda anymore so maybe a little back lash? I don't know but I do know that I have tried almost every "nutrition"/ "energy"/ meal replacement bar out there and I would choose to eat this rather than those. I felt good after eating it the way I do after a good salad or bowl of fruit.


Peanut Butter Honey: We received the bars on a Friday and we tried a different one each day until this one on Sunday. They boys refused to even try another bar. So I am guessing they really didn't like the other ones. But Agent Daddy and I liked the Peanut Butter Honey. Agent Daddy said it was his favorite. It was a close call but the Breakfast Bar still is my favorite. These are bars I feel good about eating, and about feeding to my kids.

So I always vote on each product Fad or Fab? This is definitely FAB.

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I received no compensation for this review except the product its self.

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Fashion Friday-Mommy Mastering: Cleaning Closet

            Some of us, who may or may not write for this blog, have a really big problem with cleaning out our closet.  It took me such a long time to get used to the fact that if I wanted to A. Have room in my closet and B. figure out what it was that I really needed to add into my wardrobe, I needed to clean out my closet.  So down below, I’m going to give you a couple of ideas on how to clean out your closet, I know some of you are already shaking you heads, so I’m going to give some great motivation as to why you should.

1.     1. Backwards hanger technique. 

a.     Start out by taking all your clothes and turning all the hangers around so they are backwards, that’s right, hangers facing the WRONG way.

b.      Now, as you progress through your month, as this should take 30 days, every time you wear something you can turn it the right way in the closet.  By the end of the thirty days, whatever is still turned the WRONG way you need to get rid off!

c.      I usually apply this rule only to basic day to day clothes and work clothes.  Special event clothes and formal wear should not be included.  I don’t know anyone who goes to a wedding every week as a guest.

2.    2. Worn out technique.

a.      This one is simple, if you pick up a garment and it has permanent sweat stains, holes that aren’t mendable or are just too past dated, it is time to let them go.  Yes they may have been your favorite jeans, but if you can’t fix those holes in the crotch there are no way you can wear them anymore.

  

Now this is a technique that is a quick fix to your wardrobe cleaning needs, this is for seasonal clothing, DO NOT try and be sneaky and think that this method will always work.  I guarantee that if you try to use this as a permanent solution clothes will just build up until you have a bigger mess on your hands than you did before. 

3.    The storage technique should be used for your seasonal clothing, as mentioned above.  Where you live, and the climate that you live in should determine how you approach this technique.  During the summer your fall/winter clothes can go into storage.  You don’t need a giant ankle length pea coat in June if you live in California, that means during the winter in Minnesota you can probably pack away your summer flip-flops and tank tops.

NOTE:  Before you start my Cleaning Closet techniques please remember to do these according to seasonal clothing.  If you still have summer clothes in your closet mid- October, separate them and put them in a storage bin or space bag.  I don’t want you to get rid of anything prematurely or without warrant.

GREAT MOTIVATION FOR CLEANING CLOSET

1.     More room in your closet!

2.     Charity- There are a lot of great charities that you can donate your old WEARABLE clothes to.  There are a lot of women in need, Working Wardrobes, helps Men, Woman and Young Adults in crisis reenter the work force by providing them with clothes that they can wear to interviews/first days of work.

3.     Get $$$- If you live in areas with a Buffalo Exchange or a consignment store you can take your old clothes there and they will sort through them and give you money for them.  It’s a great way to make a couple of bucks!

4.     Helps you discern what you need from what you want.

5.     A sense of accomplishment, because being a great mom just isn’t enough!

Well mommies, there are my tips for cleaning out your closet, and some great motivational reasons as to why you should!  Remember, a successful person doesn’t find time, they make time.  So throw on your cute, comfy, closet cleaning clothes and good luck!  And remember, stay fabulous!

Brandon Sapin

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The REALLY RUDE Real Housewives of New York

Well another season has come to an end with my Ho Ho's of the Chi Chi Paw, and all I can think is that Andy Cohen said it Best " SHUT UP! JUST SHUT the F@#K UP!" Seriously, these ladies have become the most ill behaved women it has been my displeasure to watch this season. I find it hysterical that Countess Luann wrote and etiquette book. She is clearly unable to behave herself so who is she to give direction to others.  But let me give you some back ground. My grandfather was an Air force Attache. My grandmother was taught my the US government how to behave properly in all European countries and how to be a proper hostess with out causing an international incident. So my mother was a stickler on manners. Watching these women who are supposed to be "society ladies", is like watching a train wreck.

Let's start with the season opener. The women are attending a wedding. Emily Post says " Be on your best behavior." I could be wrong but I suspect that means don't call another guest a "F***ing B*@CH" Jill. I also think that who the bride invites to her wedding is really none of anyone else's business. If you go to the wedding and there are people there you do not like AVOID them. If you can't say anything nice don't say anything at all. Ramona was no better getting into it with another guest over a dead mans clothing. REALLY?! I am guessing the dead guy doesn't care who wears his stuff now... cause he's DEAD!

Then we introduce a new cast member Cindy. Cindy cleans coochies for a living. Well, she calls it a spa but really they just remove hair from peoples YA YA's for big $$$. Cindy is selfish from the word go. Everything she says and does is about her and how blessed you are to have her invite you. And GOD forbid someone say that they don't want to go to her party. Sonya was on a shit list with Cindy for the whole season due to her saying she didn't want to attend Cindy's party for her kids. All in all cleaning coochie is a perfect job for Cindy, because she is kinda like a vagina, you know she is there but no one wants to see her.

You would think after last year's disastrous trip to "Scary Island" that no one would want to travel with Kellie ever again. But you would be wrong. And actually, compared to last year, Kelly behaved somewhat normal. But my biggest problem in Morocco?  The Countess. If you want to be a host you be a host. The most egregious blunder that the Countess made was the dinner party. Emily Post gives 6 steps to being a good host. Number one is Invite Clearly. It seemed as if all of the blond's were left in the dark regarding the time that dinner was to start. In Morocco they had plenty of servants. When three people were missing from the table at dinner time why was no servant dispatched to inquire of the missing women whether or not they would be attending the dinner that was starting right then? That would have satisfied Emily Posts rule number 5 Be Flexible and Gracious. Or even Rule number 4 Keep Your Guests Feeling Welcome.  And then there was the trip to CRAZY town in which Kelly is telling Alex to Close her eyes then open them interrupting Alex and what she is trying to tell Kelly.

But in the end all the shouting and interrupting and talking over each other made me want to Scream "SHUT UP!" So when Andy did, I was delighted. I think that was the highlight of the season.  I wanted to like the Ho Ho's of New York, but really with Bethenny Frankel gone I was really not so engaged any more. So it is "So Long to the REALLY RUDE Ho Ho's of the Chi Chi Paw", on to New Jersey!
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