Nutrisystem Success Plan Week 15: BBQ Success?

Last week for the most part I felt pretty confident about the Nutrisystem Success Program.  Between various activities and being on the go a lot, I still managed to stay on track and do well with ad ins and meals.  My exercise level though, well it's sorely lacking. 

With a bit of planning and prep work I am managing to keep my food intake where it needs to be to lose, but the biggest problem I find is getting motivated to get up and do something.  The days I am working from home or hanging with my family at home - I just tend to stay sedentary or busy working around the house and just don't "make" the time to workout.  The days I am out and about, well, they zap my energy too and I don't make the time to specifically exercise.  

I have a gym membership through the end of July and I am simply not taking advantage of it.  Right now it's inconvenient in many ways as it is a good deal farther from my house than I feel like using gas to go to, but still - I should be able to manage something daily in my own home.  I KNOW what exercises to do in my home without aid of videos, equipment or a trainer.  I just knowingly choose not to do it.  

I am challenging myself to "work out" at least 3 times this week! 

Memorial Day weekend did throw a few kinks in my food program as we spent time with family and BBQ'd.  I definitely ate more than I should have, but I tried to make better choices (except for the butter rum cake - that was undeniably a bad choice all around for my health, but oh so yummy!).  Still, weighing in on Monday I was down 1 more pound.  

Last Week Weight: 212.7

Current Week Weight: 211.4

Total Weight Loss: 1.3 pounds

**I was not monetarily compensated for my review of the Nutrisystem Success Program.  I received the products and support as part of the Nutrisystem Blog Nation program in exchange for my honest review on this blog.**

Thanks to Nutrisystem for including me in this awesome opportunity!  Are you overweight and need a boost of help to drop a few or a lot of extra pounds?  Check out Nutrisystem today!  Or call them at 1-888-853-4689!

My Best Friend: Part 5

If you'd like to catch up on this little mini series about how my Beau and I met and began our romance 2 years ago - check out Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 and Part 4.  After several weeks of getting to know each other by email, text and phone call I was ready to see what happened next. 

There were however, a couple of obstacles.  Number one being that I was truly hesitant to start any kind of serious relationship since I had just finalized my divorce.  I didn't want to be one of those people others talk about, "Look at her.  She can't be happy without a man."  Silly to some, but reality was I had already heard it said about my own family in friends in the past and I knew it would be said about me.  I also didn't want to get serious and have my son hurt.  He was 2 1/2 years old, adored his Daddy and was really confused about all the changes.  The last thing I wanted was to bring someone into his life, let him get attached and then it not work out.  

Yet, every time my phone beeped or my computer lit up with a new email - I felt so at peace about my choice to talk to my Beau that I couldn't linger on the fears for long.  I knew however, I wasn't going to take ANY chances of hurting my son again.  Having his home torn apart had already done enough damage.  I wasn't going to purposely let that kind of heartache get him again.  So, I had the "I really like you but I will not let this be more until I am sure that my son is okay with you and I feel you are okay with him" talk.  

The fact that it was of utmost importance to my Beau to protect my son also was just another check mark in the boxes of questions about him in my mind.  Every day I was seeing more and more what kind of man he was through and through.  Protective, loving, generous, kind, Christ-like in ways I can only pray to be and thoughtful - oh so very thoughtful.  Intelligent, logical and realistic, this man knew that we couldn't just run on emotions and the excitement of a new relationship.  He too wanted to make sure that the wee child in my life was comfortable with him.  

It just so happened that my son had to be with me at work one day due to some happenings at his daycare.  In one of those unplanned (some would call it fate) ways, it was also a day that my Beau had to stop by and pick up a printer from me again.  Nervousness set in for both of us adults as the clueless little boy wandered around the office not knowing how important this soon to be casual meeting was to the two adults involved.  In walked my Beau, we greeted each other normally as my son looked on.  The normally shy and not very "ok with strangers" little boy was friendly from the start.  Then, the man who I was falling so deeply for already, asked my son if he'd like to help him push the cart out that held the printer.  I stood by and watched my son pushing the heavy cart like a big boy with the biggest grin of his life plastered on his face.  A very simple and unexpected suggestion from a man who was obviously meant to be in my life had made my son the happiest boy in the world.  

My Beau loaded the printer, waved goodbye to us both and left.  My son came toddling up to me and said, "When is the man in the red shirt coming back?  I like him!"

As I write this now, I cry.  I cry because here I am two years later watching that same cute guy in a red shirt coaching my precious little boy (now 4 years old) as he does things around the house.  Telling him not only what the name of a tool is, but every use it has.  Walking through a store and looking at a pressure washer just yesterday and not only answering the question of, "What's that?" but telling him how it works - in full detail.  The one who has taught my little boy all about the stars in the sky at night - even telling him what planets are shining brightly.  A man who gently but firmly disciplines my son when it's needed.  Always, ALWAYS telling my son how important it is to be respectful and loving to his mommy.  A man who has sacrificed peace and quiet, things he wanted to buy, a normal schedule, privacy, and space in his own home to provide for my son and for me.  This man who I figured would just be "a fun guy to hang out with" and never expected to have this with - warms my heart every single day.  Because of how he treats me - but oh so often with what and how he does things for my son.

There is so much more to our story.  So many trying times that came after these few events.  Amazing days of how God's hand was guiding me and holding me up.  Days that for this wonderful man had to have been the toughest he ever lived through.  Nightmares that he never expected when he first complimented me.  Yet he has stood by me.  Sometimes, it's not been because he wanted to - but because he knew it was the right thing to do.  And that's who he is.  A man who exemplifies the love of Christ in a way I am yet to see in any other human I have met on this earth.  He has stifled his own feelings and desires to provide for me and my son.  And I owe him.  I owe him so much.  And I am thankful.  I am so very thankful for him.  

I don't know how to describe how I feel.  Words, for this girl who talks too much, escape me when it comes time to say why I love this man.  He is my very best friend.  No other person has ever listened, loved, guided and corrected me like he has.  No other person has ever shown me the love that he has.  God alone has surpassed him in love and devotion in my life.  My family, my parents, my sister, my other friends - they have been wonderful to me throughout my life, but nobody on this earth has ever shown me what my Beau has.  And at the end of the day - he is the best friend I've ever known.  A person I can be myself with.  I hope and I pray that God will give me the chance in this lifetime to be that for him.  To provide for him.  To love him.  To care for him, protect him, nurture him, advise him, and be the best friend and lover he has ever known. 

Two years ago I stumbled into a relationship I never expected.  Today, I praise God for every second I have had with this man.  And I pray for many years to come.  

Oh, and that piece of paper he wrote his number on all that time ago - well, I threw it away, but my boss - well - he knew I needed a man like this in my life.  Several months after that first "meeting", my boss reached in his wallet and pulled out a carefully taped together piece of paper.  It was the note, with phone number and smiley face that my Beau had given me and I had thrown away.  My boss cared enough about me to tuck away something he knew immediately was the best thing that had ever come into my life.  He told me when he gave me that paper that he was going to give it a few days - and if I didn't make a move, he was going to give me the number or he was going to call my Beau himself and tell him to keep trying.  

I am a woman who has been blessed so far beyond what I deserve.  Thank you Jesus for the love you have shown me through this man.  Only you could know how much and how thoroughly I have needed him in the past two years.  Give me the chance to return the love and provision to him that he has shown me.

My Best Friend: Part 4

So, to catch up - check Part 1 where we meet - Part 2 where he gives me his number and Part 3 where the pieces start falling into place.

Read them?  Okay - time to move on a few weeks down the road and watch the tree fall.  Literally.

Freshly divorced and living alone with my 2 year old son at the time, I walked in my front door one evening after there had been thunderstorms all afternoon to find my neighbors tree had fallen and a pretty large branch had found its way right into my bathroom ceiling.  I had no clue what to do.  I was stressed already and this was icing on the cake.  I sat in the floor and quite simply, I cried.  I tried calling my ex-husband and he didn't answer.  I called my Dad and he said he'd try to come over to help.  In the midst of my "what to do?" moments, my now-Beau sent me a message to see how my evening was going.  I broke down and told him about the tree.  I don't remember exactly what he was doing, but he couldn't get away immediately (although he offered to drop his plans).  I knew my Daddy would help me, so I told him not to worry about it.

A few hours and several phone calls later and I now had a tarp over the hole in my roof and someone scheduled to come at least fix the exterior hole for me.  My son had settled in for bed and my ex husband had finally returned my call HOURS late.  I was still a bit upset about everything, but at least I didn't fear water leaking in my bathroom/bedroom all night.  I was getting ready to take a bath and go to bed when someone text and asked me to open my front door.

I opened my door to my Beau standing with a Walmart bag in hand on the front porch.  "I may not be able to fix the roof, but perhaps a little Ben & Jerry's Chunky Monkey will make you feel better?"  he said as he showed me the pints of ice cream he had brought to share with me.

As I sank into his embrace and let the tears fall on his shoulder, I knew without a doubt God had guided my path.  That night as we sat on my bed and looked at the tree hanging over my sink, ate ice cream and laughed about the absurdity of the situation - I knew he was the type of man who would be there for me no matter what happened.  I knew that I could count on him.  I knew that I was falling head over heels in love and I was absolutely terrified at the thought.  

Tomorrow I share about the wee child's stamp of approval. 

Local Handmade Soaps by Ouachita River Soap Co.

As you might already know if you read my blog much, I am a HUGE fan of handmade soaps, candles, lotions, etc.  So, a few weeks ago when I had posted some items on a local "buy/sell/trade" group and found out the lady who wanted to purchase my items ran her own handmade soap company, I knew I had to trade her for a few bars!  Sure, a couple of bucks in my pocket and unwanted/still good items out of the house was the goal, but getting some lucious hand made soaps instead - yep - that was right up my alley!

A few messages later and we made a deal, met and exchanged goods.  She went home with something I no longer needed and I came home with two full sized bars of soap and a couple of delicious smelling sample bars.  Yes, you probably heard me burst out in "Happiest Girl in the Whole USA" on the way home as I was immediately in love with the Rose Dreams scented soap.  Oh My Soul!  My whole car smelled WONDERFUL!

I haven't been disappointed yet by the soaps I got from Ouachita River Soap Company.  I tested out the Rose Dreams scent and found the lather to be nice, the smooth soap on my skin left me feeling moisturized and although it has a nice scent, the smell lingered on my skin but was not overpowering.  Definitely a great quality product and at only $5 a bar these are worth the cost and well-priced.  A great item to toss in a gift basket or purchase for birthdays, anniversaries or Christmas.  I reserved the one bar of Southern Summers that I received and packaged it along with some other "goodies" in a box to ship to my mother-in-law for her birthday!  I can't wait to see how she enjoys this!

Thanks to Ouachita River Soap Company for a great trade and for producing quality products!  Check out their website today and pick up a few bars for yourself or someone special in your life.  You won't be disappointed!

My Best Friend: Part 3

Need to catch up?  Here is Part 1 and Part 2.  Enjoy..then come back here for Part 3 in this lovely little "anniversary" series of how I met my Beau!

I could make this a series of posts that would go on endlessly, but I will do a fast forward/speed up and get the good stuff instead of boring you with months of details.  As you have read in Part 1 we kind of knew each other through my work, then as my divorce was finalized he came into the shop a bit more frequently and put a foot forward showing interest in this somewhat "geek chic" brunette he had thought was beautiful the first time he met her. 

He gave me his number in Part 2 and left the ball in my court.  Between the teasing of my bosses (and encouragement) and the curiosity to know more, that number didn't remain saved away for long.  A few inquiries about him, a lot of prayers for direction and I sent him a simple text.  I never realized how that little text would change my world so drastically.  "You have my number now", was what I sent him.  That started a series of slightly flirtatious and definitely silly messages over the following few days.  Between my already busy schedule and his plans with his family that weekend, we didn't even actually TALK on the phone for a few days.  When we did, he was honest and open and said things I wasn't sure I liked, but appreciated the honesty of. I tried to be open with him, all the while holding back things I felt would never be an issue, as I assumed this would be like many false starts I had prior to my marriage and would end in a nice guy I'd gotten to know but would never "be with" in any way. 

 

A few weeks later and although still hurting over the failure of my marriage, I was learning what it was like to have a real man in your life.  The kind that isn't just there for what you can give them, but because they care about YOU.  We spent some time together.  We talked a LOT.  We shared copious emails with each other throughout the day and although still hesitant, I was beginning to think there was a possibility of something good happening with this man in the future, but I wasn't really sure what.

I still wasn't looking for a relationship.  I was fresh out of a bad one and needed to stand on my own feet, but this sweet gentlemanly great looking guy was there wooing me in ways I'd never experienced. Although not a parent himself, he was understanding and even thought preemptively of my time with my son and his needs.  The phone calls we shared brought about tons of laughter and smiles and it was a strange phenomenon for me to talk about things I wanted to do in my life and enjoyed doing and be taken seriously.  He wasn't just listening, nodding his head and saying "uh huh" when appropriate.  He absorbed my words and really tucked them away.  He valued my thoughts, opinions and seemed to find my aspirations to be legitimate and doable.  I found myself amazed at what I thought could only be a fairy tale playing out in front of me every single day.

Quickly I discovered that his best cousin and friend lived right down the road from my parents.  He was in many ways someone I was connected to on every side of my family through friendships, but had never actually met.  It was as if we had been moments from each other for years, yet worlds apart.  The connections to this day make me giggle and I know without a doubt that God knew what he was doing when he placed this man in my life.

Days turned to weeks and I found myself anxiously awaiting the "Good Morning Lovely" emails each day.  Then came the frequent stops by my work on his days off.  Sometimes just to say hello.  Often on his way out to his cousins house to hang out, and one time in particular to bring me a treat I never expected.  A single chicken nugget from McDonald's.  It sounds silly, but that he thought of me and made the turn to share his lunch with me, well, it made my heart gloriously happy.  

And then..the tree fell...

Check in tomorrow for Part 4.

Suspense at it's best! Terror Flower - Book Review

Terror Flower by Thomas Hollyday is truly a suspense novel at it's best.  Is it suicide or was it murder?  Captain Bob's death seems a senseless accident to most but his grandson Smote won't let it go until he knows for certain what took this much beloved man from him. 

What starts as the death of a local fisherman soon becomes a murder mystery that involves people in positions of wealth and power.  Throw in a bit of a love triangle, bomb threats, racism and a teeny little terrorist plot and you have a full blown murder mystery on your hands.  Hollyday has outdone himself with this one!  From grandson Smote to the local custom car dude Tench and his long lost love Julie you feel like you have met each and every character and they are now a part of your real life. 

This book has everything I like in a good mystery or suspense novel.  A great story line with well rounded characters, easy to read dialogue (so important!) and descriptions that paint vivid pictures in your mind.  When you feel the wind in your hair as they race down the road or feel the tension building in yourself as an argument is played out in front of you on the page - you know you've found an author who has not only a great idea for a story, but the talent to pull it off.  This, my friends, is a rare find.  Thomas Hollyday should be on the Best Sellers lists...and that's my less than humble opinion.

I obviously give this book 5 stars, two thumbs up and a hearty recommendation!  Check out Thomas Hollyday and all of his amazing novels on Amazon.com

My Best Friend: Part 2

So yesterday I gave you a brief introduction to how my Beau and I first met.  Catch up here if you need/want to.  Then come back here and read on to learn more about the next meeting we had.

tick...tock...tick...tock...tick...tock...tick...tock..

Read it?  Great! 

So, that day he picked up the printer for the second time, he used what could go down in history as one of the most sincere, adorable and perhaps a wee bit inappropriate pick up lines ever.  "Your husband is a very lucky man."  Yep.  That was all there was to it, but it hit the mark for me.  My marriage was long since over and I was sitting in a spot of waiting for papers to be drawn and agreements to be made.  I wasn't looking for another relationship, but I wasn't a complete moron either.  I knew it was a compliment and frankly it was the first thing that had made me feel good about myself in months. 

That day I kept chuckling to myself about it, and yes, I even shared the little story with my boss when he came back into the shop later.  He winked at me and said that was just the kind of man I needed to fall for the next time.  Someone who saw what I was already.  Needless to say, that line made an impression on me - but still, life moved on and I kept praying and hoping my marriage could possibly be saved. 

Fast forward a few weeks and I was at peace over the end of my marriage.  It was a matter of a few weeks and things would be finalized.  I still wasn't looking for a relationship, but I was ready to move on with my life for my son and myself.  Then one morning near the end of May, there I was sitting at my desk blogging and the door opened.  In walked that cute bald guy with the great smile carrying that printer again.  I couldn't help but smile and wonder what to say to him. 

We did the usual quick chat about the work that needed to be done and it seemed he hesitated, but then he left.  I was a bit disappointed, and honestly wasn't sure why.  My life wasn't exactly in a place where I felt like I should start a relationship, but at the same time, the idea of this legitimately nice guy (not to mention good looking) being interested in ME was well, thrilling. A couple of days later I called and left the message that the printer was ready to pick up.  He showed up at the shop the Friday before Memorial Day to pick it up.  My boss was there and spent a couple of minutes talking to him about the printer, and then he was kind of smiling at me in a goofy way and I was all kinds of stupid nervous and had no clue what to say.  

He asked me what I had planned for the weekend.  I don't have a clue what I said but something to do with hanging out at home with my son.  He mentioned that his cousin was moving and he would be busy most of the weekend with that.  He gathered his things and headed on out the door.  My boss started in immediately teasing me that he liked me.  I was just getting settled back at my desk when he walked back in the door. 

Standing in front of me was a man that still amazes me with his way with words...he was so sweet and understanding and just nearly perfect when he said that he knew I was recently divorced and that I might not be ready, but when I was he'd love the chance to take me out - even as just friends.  He handed me a piece of paper and turned around with a smile.  I am pretty sure I stood there like an idiot for a few minutes all the while listening to my boss teasing me.  I'm sure I turned at least 50 shades of red in those few moments.  I unfolded the note and there was his number written with the cutest little smiley face ever.  

The teasing commenced from the guys I worked with.  I think that day could have been one of they best I ever had with them actually.  They ribbed me, teased me and made me blush.  Unbeknownst to them, I stored that phone number in my phone and then tore the note up and threw it in the trash can.  I wasn't sure what I wanted or what I was ready for at that point..but I had this feeling I'd want that number again later. 

I was right...that "later" wasn't very far in the future...

Stay tuned for more! (Oh yeah, that picture up there ^ it's the exact same type of printer that got this love story started!)

My Best Friend: Part 1

Anyone else out there wonder how time flies so quickly? 

I looked on the calendar this morning and just days away is the 2nd anniversary of the day I met my Beau.  Well, that's not entirely the truth.  We met about two years before that, but I didn't pay any attention to him.  You know how it is.  I was married at the time, working and he was just another customer that came in the shop.  I did what I had to for him, knew his name and where he worked but didn't give him a second thought again. 

Then, two years ago - I was in the midst of getting divorced.  I had been married for four years and although I wanted desperately to make it work, it was honest to goodness never meant to be.  We both made mistakes - it was just a bad thing from the beginning.  But I am eternally grateful for the wonderful little boy I have as a result of that marriage.  Any who - there I was in May of 2010 heartbroken over the end of my marriage, confused, struggling and determined that I was going to do something right for once in my life - but no clue how to get there from the mess I was in. 

In walked this fella I had seen several times in the past one morning in early May.  He brought a printer to be repaired.  I got his number, the information we needed and didn't think too much about the guy who dropped it off.  Well, a little - but not much.  You see, at that point I wasn't even thinking about looking for another man in my life.  I had no desire to date.  I wanted to have my marriage back - but fixed.  Then a few days later, that same fella came in to pickup that printer.  Admittedly, I thought he was a cutie.  I always have been a sucker for a redhead or a baldie - and there he was with that shaved head and a killer smile.  I thought he was cute, but didn't think much beyond that. 

Fast forward a week or so later, and who but that same smiling face in the red polo shirt walked through my door with the same exact printer?  Yep.  You got it!  Now, he swears he didn't break the printer again to come see me, but I will always wonder.  He will however admit to having had a crush on me since the day he met me some two years before.  He saw the wedding ring way back then and respected it.  But this time, he couldn't resist saying something, despite knowing it might not be appropriate. 

"Your husband is a very lucky man."  

I'm not sure exactly how I responded but I stammered some sort of stupid thank you and a remark about the fact that I was actually getting divorced, while twirling the wedding band around my finger at the same time. He smiled back and walked out the door.  I watched him load that printer in his truck and turned around with a strange feeling in my heart.  I wasn't looking for another relationship.  I honestly was hoping against hopes that some miracle would happen and my marriage would be fixed.  Why else would I still be wearing my wedding rings even though my soon to be ex-husband was blowing my phone up asking when the divorce could be finalized so he could get on with his life. 

Time sure flies as I remember that day two years ago...but that's not all that happened...come back tomorrow and read about the next time I saw that cute bald guy in the red polo shirt and how God placed him in my path just in the nick of time.

A Piece of Time by Victoria Fielding - A Book Review

I always love seeing emails in my inbox from Media Guests because it inevitably means I am about to embark on another journey with a great author.  Yet again, they have introduced me to a woman who uses what could only be described as divine talent and heart to weave a tale that in my opinion should and will catch any one's heart strings. 

Victoria Fielding introduces us to A Piece of Time a novel about young Lily and how her life is shaped, an accident changes everything and a miraculous view of the afterlife in wondrous description that will enthrall any reader - believers and non believers alike. 

Lily Hunt is a young girl much like many of us are or have been.  For one reason or another we've all felt abandoned.  Lily felt that for the majority of her life.  What could be called a deadbeat Dad, a mother who tried but didn't quite "get it", good friends but something missing insider her that continued to draw her to the poison of a boyfriend who was in plain text "bad news" for her and everything in her life.  Much like myself and at least 85% of the women I know in real life, Lily struggled from insecurity, self-esteem issues, depression, anger, fear and any number of difficult emotions to handle - especially without the full support of what would be considered a "normal" childhood and parent/child relationship. 

Fielding's use of her own life examples being woven into this tale make it that much more authentic and easy to read.  Her ability to draw you into the world and mind of a fictional character is one that few have the natural talent to do.  Delving into the afterlife and being given the ability to look at your own choices and wonder "what if?" is a touchy subject that she portrayed beautifully, fully and thought provokingly. 

I walked away from this book in awe of the impact a simple little fictional novel could have on one person.  Although it has not made the rounds of the New York Times Best Sellers list like many well known novels have in the past - I think given the chance this book could excel and impact not just a few,but thousands of men and women.  In summary - a book that was difficult to put down and one in which the story line, characters and simple writing style were perfect for my preferences.  I look forward to future works by Victoria Fielding and encourage everyone to look her up.  This book gets 5 stars from me easily! 

Thanks to Victoria Fielding and Media Guests for including me in this book tour. I was not monetarily compensated for this review.  I did however receive the above mentioned book in exchange for my honest review on this blog.  All thoughts and opinions stated within are mine alone.  

Nutrisystem Week 14

Week 14 with Nutrisystem proved a lot easier than expected.  Mostly because our house was still a bit under the weather and I really didn't have much of an appetite.  I hate to be thankful for illness in any circumstance, but a 4.6 pound loss this week makes it definitely worth getting back on track headed the right direction. 

Despite being under the weather and indulging in home made chicken noodle soup (really low calorie and healthy all things considered), I did stay with the Nutrisystem Success Program a lot better this week than I had in weeks past.  It helps that I have finally settled on my favorite breakfasts available via Nutrisystem.  My top two choices are the NutriFlakes bran Cereal and the Granola.  By adding banana to the bran and yogurt with the granola I feel pretty good about those as breakfasts most days of the week.  That keeps me from wanting the snacks throughout the mornings.  

Low fat string cheese and a few pre-grilled boneless skinless chicken tenderloins helped add in my proteins I was struggling to fulfill before.  And I hate to admit it, but "they" are right.   Protein does help you stay full longer and is a lot more satisfying overall than the chips, cookies, etc. that I would prefer to reach for on a regular basis.  

I am still struggling with dessert though.  As much as I like the Fudge Bars and the Orange/Cream Bars, and a lot of the faux candy bars are darn tasty, I just can't get over that craving for something gummy and fruit flavored.  Having participated a bit on the forums at Nutrisystem - I know I am not alone in this craving.  I am a skittles, starburst, chewy, gummy, fruity candy dessert person - it's hard to go without those!  

Overall, I feel much better with my success this week - but am still a bit uncertain if it is because of being under the weather with a lack of appetite or me getting handle on the program better.  Either way, I'm not going to be ungrateful for the continued downward spiral I've experienced. 

Last Week: 217.3

Current Weight:212.7

Week Weight Lost: 4.6 pounds

**I was not monetarily compensated for my review of the Nutrisystem Success Program.  I received the products and support as part of the Nutrisystem Blog Nation program in exchange for my honest review on this blog.**

Thanks to Nutrisystem for including me in this awesome opportunity!  Are you overweight and need a boost of help to drop a few or a lot of extra pounds?  Check out Nutrisystem today!  Or call them at 1-888-853-4689!

Abby Apple and her Fruit Friends DVD - Review & GIVEAWAY!

A few weeks ago I found an email in my inbox from the amazing makers of the Snapatoonies DVD series.  They offered a DVD for me to review and lucky for my readers - another one to be given away!  I excitedly waited for the DVD to arrive in my mailbox and wasn't disappointed!

Let me say, I have watched a TON of children's programming in my day.  Movies, series, educational and just for fun - I've seen all sorts of things come and go.  I am a fan of animation and I am a fan of catchy music and phrases that help kids learn things.  But I have seen some pretty poorly done shows for kids that left me embarrassed for the makers.  Snapatoonies was nothing of the sort.  We got the great show Abby Apple and her Fruit Friends to review.  I was excited and hesitant as always - and my 4 year old was THRILLED that he got to help Mommy review something!

In popped the DVD.  Cute animation, catchy tune to start and half an hour later my son was sitting in the chair not moving a muscle totally enthralled with the show in front of him.  When it was finally over, he asked to watch it again - and again - and yes - again!  Trust me - that's a big deal for my little guy!  I had planned on dropping it off with him at daycare this week, but unfortunately we had a few illnesses running rampant in this area and he ended up staying home with me.  I am definitely going to share this gem with his daycare and the other kids there as I KNOW they will love it too - plus it's educational.

I loved the simple introduction of various fruits to the kids and how they were played up as being yummy.  My son already loves just about any fruit or vegetable, but he asked for plums almost immediately.  Unfortunately I couldn't find any here locally that were ripe enough to buy, but I was excited to see how it influenced him to eat different and good for him foods!

One of my readers gets a chance to win their very own copy of this DVD!  Check out the easy entries below via Rafflecopter!


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Song of My Heart - Book Review

I am still debating on whether or not I am a fan of this latest book by  Kim Vogel Sawyer.   I recently received a copy to review from Bethany House Publishers and was excited to test out a new to me historical romantic fiction author.

I have loved historical fiction since I was a young teenager and of course like most women and girls - a little romance never hurts!  Song of My Heart hits a lot of my favorite elements in a good easy to read romance, yet at the same time I felt the book was a bit disjointed in places.  With easy to love characters and a bit of humor throughout thanks to the twin Miss Baxter's, I'd love to give the book 5 stars -but I stop just short due to the predictability of the "moral of the story" ending.  

This book finds young Sadie Wagner traveling away from home to the small town of Goldtree, Kansas to work in a local mercantile and hopefully fulfill her lifelong dream of singing on stage.  Knowing only one person (her distant male cousin) in the town, she is hesitant at first but quickly falls into easy companionship with others around her.  Throw in a handsome young sheriff who shares her Christian faith and of course a secret liquor business in the background and you have a story that keeps you turning pages between laughs and a few shouts of anger at some actions of the characters. 

Sadie gets caught in the middle of not only a wee bit of a love triangle, but also in the middle of the unshady business that brought Thad McKane (aka handsome young sheriff) to town int he first place.  Just when you think things are going downhill fast, God intervenes just in the nick of time and your favorite characters find themselves right where they need to be!  

I could easily enjoy reading more about each of the characters within this book, and perhaps that's part of the problem for me.  I felt the book was trying to stuff too much or maybe too little into one volume.  Yes, this plot was a single story - but I felt the author had a few good characters that could use some fleshing out.  Maybe the lack of character development in some places left me uneasy, or perhaps it was just the typical - "bad thing happens - good people get caught in middle - night in shining armor saves the day" plot that was boring/old to me.  Although I was a bit dissatisfied overall with it, I still think the author has good writing skill and has a good eye for characters.  With a bit of polish, I could thoroughly enjoy future works by this author. 

Thanks to Bethany House Publishing and Kim Vogel Sawyer for the chance to read and review this book on my blog.  I was not monetarily compensated for this review.  I received the book mentioned above in exchange for my honest review on this blog.  

 

Who else LOVES Sobe Lifewater?

I was really excited last month to be included in the BzzAgent program for Sobe Lifewater!  Although we tend to drink regular every day tap water the most - any time I can find a good deal with coupons, I love stocking up on Sobe Lifewater and fruit flavored drinks. 

I received a great box recently courtesy of Sobe and BzzAgent that had a full sized bottle of one of their latest flavor creations!  Pomegranate and Nectarine Coconut Water!  Yummy!!!  I love all things coconut and pina colada so this was right up my alley!  The Pomegranate and Nectarine flavors really seem to compliment each other well also!  I think it's a great addition to the 30+ flavors Sobe already markets.  At little to no calories for a bottle - it's also a great replacement for soft drinks and energy drinks that use up so many of our daily calorie allowances! 

Also included in my BzzAgent kit was a tube of coconut flavored lip balm!  Now THAT was honestly my favorite part of the campaign box!!!  I did get several coupons for 50 cents off any (1) bottle of Sobe Lifewater and 1 coupon for a FREE Sobe product as well!  I can't wait to put those coupons to use in my next few shopping trips and to share a few of them with my friends and family that are Sobe lovers as well! 

Thanks BzzAgent and Sobe for including me in this campaign to promote Sobe Lifewater and the new Coconut water flavors!

**I was not monetarily compensated for this review.  I received the above mentioned products in exchange for my Bzz to my friends, family and all of my blog readers.  All thoughts and opinions within are mine alone.**

April Showers bring May Brain Fry?

Brain Fry.  Yep.  We've all had it at one time or another.  Here I am, once again feeling the effects of a long week where my brain was pushed overboard.  No school this week (thankfully, I'm on break for a few more weeks!).  No regular 9-5 job to go to, but nonetheless, I feel totally wiped out. 

Mother's Day was a bit stressful this year. My Beau and my son tried to make it special for me, but when illness hit our house that afternoon - it kind of stripped the "special" from the day and made it more of a downer.  The next few days entailed multiple errands, a few days of me personally feeling physically down and then culminated with my Beau having his wisdom teeth all removed late Thursday afternoon.  What was supposed to be an easy and somewhat stress free week turned into one that I personally would like to request a "do over" for.  

I have no particular complaints against anyone else this week.  I'm not mad or upset with anyone.  I'm just tired.  I'm mentally tired.  I'm physically tired.  And very much emotionally tired.  It's tough to keep going when you just flat feel BAD physically.  It's even tougher to hold strong when you have emotional factors outside your house that are pulling and tugging at you. 

Okay - so the emotional things of the week, eh...my ex-husband and his now ex-girlfriend had a son on Wednesday.  My 4 year old was the youngest of his biological father's brood of kids until this event.  In all honesty, I'm not as sad about this or upset by it as I figured I would be.  Maybe it's the months of knowledge or simply the fact that although the first few days he'll be there - reality is my ex-husbands life is not one that is good for or conducive to being around an infant very often.  Or any of his kids for that matter. But still...it's been difficult to take in. 

You see, I'm not hurt, sad, offended, jealous or any of the many things I could be or expected to be about the birth of this little boy.  But emotionally - I am torn.  I am very torn.  I loved my ex-husband tremendously.  I probably of all people in the world, know him the best.  Even now when he doesn't think I do - I get him.  It happens.  You spend years of your life with someone and you learn what they really are on the inside.  So, right now - I see him as a father who has another chance to be there for a kid he created.  Another chance to really be involved in one of his children's lives...but unfortunately - all of his past choices are going to inevitably make that difficult. I know that although this wasn't something he planned on happening or could really get excited about having happen - he is still at the end of the day a little excited for the chance to be a good Dad again to one of his kids.  And that's what tears me up inside. 

It's not jealousy over another woman having a baby with him.  It's not hurt that MY son isn't the baby anymore.  It's not even hurt (well not much at least) that my son gets little attention from him and this baby will get a ton for awhile.  What tears me up is the fact that I know my ex-husband and I know how much he truly wants to be that kind of father his kids can look up to...and it hurts me to know how he doubts he can do that or be that. 

It breaks my heart to know that despite the desire inside him to be a better man, different man and a good father to all of his kids, it's nearly impossible to do so because of the many many bad choices in his past.  It makes me ache for him, and yes, it makes me wish I could wave a magic wand and fix it all - go back and fix the past - make the present easier and the way it should be.  But not just for him - for all of us. 

I guess over the last few years as I have watched my life change and develop and learned what real compassion and forgiveness is, I have also learned to forgive and love others despite what they've done to me.  There are many who could say I should have no sympathy or concern for him.  There are many who shake their head at me even bothering to waste a moments time in prayer for him, but I simply can't turn my back.  I may not be his best friend.  I may never actually give him a helping hand on this earth again - but my heart still loves and cares about him, his emotional and physical well being.  And thus, I am brain fried this week.  I am exhausted emotionally from the daily things of life, illness that put us all to the test the last few weeks and the addition of wishing I could fix the heartache of all those people out there I love and care about. 

Tonight, I simply pray that God hears my heart and knows it.  I am out of words to say today.  I am out of tears to cry.  I simply want peace.  Not just for me, but for so many people around me.  I want health for all those who are sick.  I want financial freedom for the people who need it and deserve it so much.  I want life to be better for everyone. 

Anyone know where that magic wand is located at?  Probably next to the money tree farm huh? ::snort::

Need You Now - Review and GIVEAWAY

This was my first introduction to Beth Wiseman as an author.  Let me say that this was a great introduction to her writing style and her ability to shape characters you truly start caring about and feeling for.  

Need You Now is a contemporary Christian fiction novel set in the middle of Texas.  The story itself is about a small family who has recently moved out of the "big city" life of Houston a few hours away to rural Round Top, Texas.  A stay at home mom for as long as she has been married, Darlene finds herself longing for a little something more.  A bit of independence and appreciation are calling her name.  Her children are teenagers now, the rural community has provided some security for her and her husband Brad's concerns about their welfare and she feels it's just the right time to step outside of her box and into the working world. 

Darlene quickly finds a full time job (when she was only looking for part time) at a local special needs school as an aide.  Her husband Brad still commutes to and from Houston as an accountant and their three children struggle along as they all adjust to the new routine and schedule in the house now that Mommy has joined the workforce. 

Along with the family of five that is the center of this plot you find a couple of outstanding supporting characters that develop in this book and flesh it out into something that isn't a simple piece of fluff work.  I for one found her writing style excellent and her ability to create strong and touching characters excellent. Unfortunately, the story line and a few of the things that seemed to be bigger plot points didn't hit the mark with me.  

Beth Wiseman created a great plot, it's simply one that I don't fully agree with.  The idea that some of the troubles in their family including lies between the husband and wife, a sticky situation with her students father and issues their teenage daughter is having are a result of her lack of being at home as a full time mother really makes my head explode.  Throughout the book there seems to be a theme of, "her place is really at home".  I don't disagree that many wives and mothers are great stay at home moms and have that opportunity.  I don't think it's WRONG for a woman to be a stay at home mother.  I do however think it's wrong to put out there that her desire to be something MORE than "just" a stay at home mom is what caused the problems in her marriage and family. 

This knocks the book down to a simply 4 stars for me.  Otherwise I could give it 5 stars for great writing and an easy read.  And the above review is simply my opinion.  I know it is more a matter of my view on family dynamics than it is on the book itself.  

Handlebar Marketing in conjunction with Thomas Nelson Publishing and author Beth Wiseman have given You Brew My Tea the opportunity to host a giveaway of this great book to one of our readers!  Please fill out the simply chances to win on the Rafflecopter giveaway form below!  GOOD Luck!!

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Nutrisystem Week 13: Back on the Wagon

After a long couple of weeks in which I did virtually nothing to better my health, I am back on track and enjoying it!  Although I did splurge a bit on Sunday for Mother's Day - I still did really well this past week with the Nutrisystem Success Program! 

Going back to the age old tricks that have always helped me manage to lose and maintain my weight is where it's at.  Having pre-portioned food from Nutrisystem helps considerably, but also having my add-ins measured and ready to toss in ahead of time helps me too.  Taking the hour on Sunday afternoon to wash, chop, and even saute or grill up veggies to toss in with my meals, lean protein to add in or even just cutting low fat cheese into portion sized cubes helped me stay focused and not "cheat" near as much as I would have and had been. 

I started out in January at 229.4 pounds.  My lowest weight on this journey was 206.1.  I started last week back up at 219.1.  I am NOT proud of that in the least.  Although I hit the gym on Saturday, I have to account for Chinese lunch out with my family on Sunday.  So - I am not thrilled, but not unhappy with my progress this week. 

I weighed in Monday morning at 217.3.  That's only a 1.8 pound loss in one week, but it's a step in the right direction and I am glad to see it happening! 

Breakfasts of bran flakes with a banana sliced in it or granola with yogurt and a couple of slices of turkey bacon keep me full until lunch where I can have a chicken salad sandwich and salad or some yummy pasta with a can of chicken thrown in and a side salad or baby carrots and fat free ranch dip.  I can manage evening meals by having fresh grilled squash, zucchini, peppers and onions ready to have as side dishes or tossed into the ready made ravioli, lasagna or even chicken Alfredo available with Nutrisystem Success Program.  When I get tired of the "same ole, same ole" each day I just have to refocus and try a new add in.  

Thankful for another opportunity to make this a success with the SUCCESS program!

**I was not monetarily compensated for my review of the Nutrisystem Success Program.  I received the products and support as part of the Nutrisystem Blog Nation program in exchange for my honest review on this blog.**

Thanks to Nutrisystem for including me in this awesome opportunity!  Are you overweight and need a boost of help to drop a few or a lot of extra pounds?  Check out Nutrisystem today!  Or call them at 1-888-853-4689!

Taking one for the Team

I've always been a good student.  I always made A's and only rarely was there a B mixed in.  It's never been difficult for me to learn, study and pass a test.  Even in the teen years as I home schooled and truly slacked a lot at times, I still learned, passed and made it without much extra work.  I am what many would consider a natural student.  

I am a lot like my Daddy.  We are smart people.  We aren't just "book smart" but we have common sense and natural ability to absorb, learn and put things to use in our lives on a daily basis.  My Daddy could have been anything he wanted to be in life, but he wasn't always given those opportunities.  More so, he chose to serve God instead of man.  He chose to answer the call to be a minister, and thus made educational and work choices that some would scoff at, because he felt it was what God wanted of him.  It had little to do with money, status or what he was intellectually capable of.  It had everything to do with the distinct call of God on his life to be in the ministry.  That's something really hard for others to understand. 

Here I am, at nearly 30 years old and I've made some pretty stupid decisions in my life.  Let's face it, I've been a complete dumbass a good part of my adult life.  I know, not a nice thing to say - but it's the brutal truth.  So, as I pick up the pieces and try to sort what I want to do in my life, what I want to become and what I think God wants from me - I am working hard to get my college education.  But when I signed up for the classes this Spring, I never expected to have tragedy strike within two weeks of the start of the semester.  

None of us expected my Dad to have triple bypass.  None of us expected that three weeks later my schedule would still be rather jumbled and that I would be struggling to catch up on those first few weeks assignments in my classes.  And then, when things finally settled and I finally got back in the swing of things - my grandpa went into the hospital.  Another two weeks of odd schedules that gave me extra time to work on school projects, but there was also the kink that ended in him passing away, funerals, different schedules and wow - here we are at Finals week and I still feel WAY behind on many levels for this semester. 

Tomorrow will be my last and hardest final for my freshman year.  The first three classes I passed with what I may not consider great grades, but still A/B range so I'm not as unhappy as I could be about them.  This class though - well, it was definitely the toughest class.  One not to be taken lightly, and although my teacher may believe otherwise - I did study, try and want to pass this class with a high grade.  But circumstances, finances, responsibilities and all the unexpected things of life happened and here I am - failing this class and my only way to pass would be 100% on the final exam. 

I have been studying this week, a lot today.  But I know, realistically, unless a miracle presents itself - I will be more than likely barely passing if even that when I walk out of that classroom tomorrow.  It makes me sad.  It is embarrassing.  Mostly because I know how extremely capable I am of doing EXCELLENT not just average or below average in ALL of these classes.  But, as I shut things down for the night and attempt to get some sleep before the early morning brings my last class of the year, I know that I am simply "taking one for the team".  

My parents made sacrifices for me and my sister through the years.  My grandparents made sacrifices for us through the years too.  The last 4 months of crazy schedules, unpredictable happenings and putting my priorities and desires on the back burner to take care of the four people who took care of me the most through my life - well, it's been worth it.  

So I may fail one class?  Oh well, I have succeeded in being the daughter and granddaughter I want to be and felt I should be.  It's not ideal, but it was worth it.  I love them.  They love me.  Yeah, it may not be pretty on my transcript, but this time - I'll take one for the team.

Nutrisystem Success Plan: Shall we start again?

Way back in late January I started out with the Nutrisystem Success Program.  I was pumped.  I was ready.  I was going to succeed.  Then, well - life happened.  Over the course of the last three months my Dad had to have triple bypass, my work situation went from easy and routine to scattered and odd and then most recently my grandpa passed away. 

I'm an emotional eater and a convenience eater.  All of those ^ things up there are big triggers to me to want/need to binge on crap that is unhealthy.  Add in a few days spent out of town where I ate out all weekend, exhaustion from a crazy schedule and too much school work with not enough time, and you have a woman who lost a lot the first month but has slowly gained it back the last few weeks.  I went to the gym almost religiously for about 6 weeks and that definitely helped the pounds drop.  Then, the excuses I just listed came into play and I am ashamed at how infrequently I have seen the inside of that gym in the last two months.

Here I am, at age 29, a mother of two amazing boys, partner to a terrific man and although having been given every opportunity you can imagine, still morbidly obese.  I have four weeks of food left on the Nutrisystem Success Program and I truly want to succeed.  I still have obstacles and admittedly, I think that I have done better in the past with weight loss when I was cooking my own meals than I do with these prepared meals.  I just like variety and although Nutrisystem offers a ton of variety, it's sadly kind of similar in flavor across the board.  I just get tired of the same thing three meals a day every single day.  It's tough for me.  The next month will take a lot of will power and determination.  I want to lose the weight!

I do miss the aspect of accountability that I had in programs before where I lost weight.  Weekly meetings, people who weighed me in routinely and checked my progress definitely helped me to stay on track.  Although Nutrisystem offers a pretty cool online community and forum to talk to others, it still doesn't give you the accountability of having one of more individuals tracking your progress in person.  And, sadly I have to say that the person who is in charge of my "account" has been very sweet and always there to pat me on the back, but kind of "not there" as far as support.  In fact, I haven't posted in a few weeks about Nutrisystem and am still waiting for the email from her/them asking what's up.  I understand they are busy with their jobs, but isn't a part of that making sure the people out their blogging about their program are getting the best service so they can give NUTRISYSTEM the best review? 

I'm still willing and wanting to do this.  I am going to with or without the support that has helped in the past.  I am capable, but it's going to be tough. 

**I was not monetarily compensated for my review of the Nutrisystem Success Program.  I received the products and support as part of the Nutrisystem Blog Nation program in exchange for my honest review on this blog.**

Thanks to Nutrisystem for including me in this awesome opportunity!  Are you overweight and need a boost of help to drop a few or a lot of extra pounds?  Check out Nutrisystem today!  Or call them at 1-888-853-4689!

Tombow Scrapbook Glue Review

I have been a lover of card making, scrapbooking, memory book making and arts and crafts since I was a teenager.  I have an entire corner of the closet in our home office dedicated to my supplies for these things.  I don't spend much time doing it anymore due to other responsibilities that take up my time, but on the occasion I have a few hours to spare I love digging in and sorting through my pictures to make a beautiful page that memorializes a special event in our lives. 

I recently was sent a couple of refills for Tombow glue to test out.  Just like your typical roller glue as pictured it is easy to use and a great small item that fits in the palm of your hand.  I didn't have much time to layout a full scrapbook page or anything of that nature to test it out, but I did manage to throw together a simple thank you card to send to some friends of mine who had made a donation to charity in memory of my grandpa last week when he passed away.  Much like any other adhesive glue, it rolled onto the paper easily and seemed to stick well.  Kind of like, well, GLUE!  :-) 

Tombow is however a bit better quality than the glue cartridges I often pick up at the local Dollar Tree.  Where those tend to get "off track" and have to be re-threaded onto the wheel, this one worked beautifully with no "hiccups" during application.  It also sticks solidly and I had no worries about letters or applications falling off the card due to lack of glue. 

Looking at the Tombow Adhesive website I found that they are pretty inexpensive.  Especially compared to the common "name brand" glues out there.  Cheaper than most and only marginally more expensive than some.  Although I don't do much scrapbooking anymore, I'd definitely reach for Tombow over the Dollar Tree adhesive rolls any day.  At such a small difference in price it is definitely a better deal when it works better, wastes less and is just as convenient.  

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

So you think you want to start Running Again? Book Review

I am NOT a runner.  I have tried.  I have wanted to.  I know all the great benefits of running because you can lose more weight faster, etc., etc., etc.  But at the end of the day - THIS girl - is NOT going to strap on her running shoes and go for a jog.  

I will jog/walk on the treadmill at the gym.  In the air conditioning, with 4 bras on to keep the jiggle and bounce to a minimum.  But generally speaking, I am not going to use running as a form of exercise - BUT if you are going to, I was sent a cool little book by Jeff Stevenson called So You Want To Start Running...AGAIN!  My Journey from Tired to 10K that you might want to check out.  (Available for under $1 on Amazon!)

Jeff was just like a lot of us - a bit too lazy and spent a LOT too much time on the couch and not in the gym.  25 years prior to the journey in this book, he had been a runner.  That was in high school  - we all know how the years after high school can seem to zoom right by.  Well, he started a journey and like many of us have tried to do in our own lives, yet he succeeded.  A few mistakes and lots of great tips later - and he had a book to help us folks who are WAY out of shape on how to start running without injuring ourselves. 

If you want a quick, easy book to read full of tips on how to get back into the swing of running - or to just tell you how to prevent injuries and stress when you start running for the first time, I think Jeff Stevenson hit the nail on the head.  A very small (only 52 pages) yet full of information book that would be a great one to pick up for anyone who is about to start a new exercise regimen that includes jogging or running. 

In all honesty, I have no idea who sent me this book nor why.  I get books ALL the time to review and almost always I have an email I can refer back to, a note that came with the book or some sort of press release with the book - this one I have nothing on.  So, I suppose my thanks for the chance to read it go solely to the author - Jeff Stevenson.  Thanks for the opportunity.  Great job with a cool little book and good luck in your future! 

Obviously, I wasn't monetarily compensated for this review, and as always I only post my personal thoughts, feelings and opinions about the book/product I am reviewing regardless of compensation. 

Twice Upon A Prequel & Three Shorts - A Book Review

Ever wonder what happened "before" the book?  You know what I mean...you are reading a great book and suddenly have a moment of, "I wonder what happened back then".  Well, Derald W. Hamilton brings us a book that includes not one but TWO prequels to two of in Twice Upon A Prequel & Three Shorts.  Taking a deeper look at two of his beloved characters from the book The Call, Hamilton give us insight into their lives and development as characters in ways that are surprising and endearing.  Also included in this compilation book are additional short stories that are both thought provoking and humorous in turn. 

Although I have not read his original manuscript The Call, I can only imagine it's just as good as this compilation book.  Admittedly it is tough to give a thorough review in one simple blog post about five great stories. So, I will give you a few thoughts from what I read.  

Hamilton approaches spirituality in one story in a way that resembles how Saul was converted.  The "strike you down" like you've never imagined and can't deny his existence type of conversion or wake up call.  Yet at the core of that call is what he grew up in the midst of - the southern religious realm of fundamentalist and legalism that knows now boundaries.  I could definitely relate with the characters in this story as I too am a preachers kid.  I can't say that my Dad or my church experiences were identical to what Elmo experienced in this story, but I definitely understand the emotions, the tug, the frustration, the undeniable call that makes you ache within in a way that you can't explain or ignore.  Of all the stories in the book this one definitely held my attention and made me think the most.  

He also shares a story of a man who is forced to retire and has to find purpose in his life without his work that meant so much to him.  Although the story may not be something all of us can directly relate to, you can easily understand the struggle to find purpose, reason and understanding about why we are where we are in our lives.  

Hamilton's three short stories deal with everything from abuse between fathers and their sons to how war and the military life can change a person without them even realizing it.  

Although this book seems to be packed full of a little of everything it is still fairly easy to read.  Each individual story is distinct and "it's own".  The writing style is excellent, informative and definitely descriptive in a way that I thoroughly enjoy reading.  It took me a few days to get through the whole book, but that was more due to time constraints than anything else.  I look forward to seeing Derald Hamilton publish more short stories in the future in compilation form like this.  Makes it easy to read a "little something" when you don't have the time or energy to devote to a full sized novel.