Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Mean doggy mommy?
Our house is full of love, happiness, and a lot of craziness! With a 4, 3 and 1 year old, we already have a puppy, Callie. She is 3 years old and knows that she is the protector of our house and Daddy's favorite pup. So when the opportunity arose to get a new puppy, I really had to list the pros and cons of how "puppy" would impact our home. There were the usual cons: potty training, waking up in the middle of the night, chewing of furniture & toys... But the pros seemed a lot better! The kids could really appreciate a new puppy - learning responsibilites such as feeding, training and playing with a new pet. I also thought it would be great to get the kids to keep their toys cleaned up so that the puppy wouldn't chew them. When it came to Callie, I had in mind that it would be great to get a new puppy while she was young so that it wouldn't put too much stress on her. I even had the idea that she would play with the puppy and show him the ropes. Well, we got the puppy. And everything is going like I imagined it would ... except that Callie loathes the puppy with every fiber of her body! He likes to pounce around her and try to play. She walks away and ignores him. He sure is a cute little fella but Callie has no time for him, my husband or myself. She only goes to Willie for comfort now and it's a sad feeling to have such a cute, happy little puppy only to know that Callie has some magor resentment!
Thursday, June 17, 2010
40 fantastic uses for baking soda By Melissa Breyer
Here are some of the many creative ways you can use baking soda!
Personal Care
1. Make toothpaste
A paste made from baking soda and a 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution can be used as an alternative to commercial non-fluoride toothpastes. (Or here’s a formula for a minty version.) You can also just dip your toothbrush with toothpaste into baking soda for an extra boost.
2. Freshen your mouth
Put one teaspoon in half a glass of water, swish, spit, and rinse. Odors are neutralized, not just covered up.
3. Soak oral appliance
Soak oral appliances (like retainers, mouthpieces, and dentures) in a solution of 2 teaspoons baking soda dissolved in a glass or small bowl of warm water. The baking soda loosens food particles and neutralizes odors to keep appliances fresh. You can also brush appliances clean using baking soda.
4. Use as a facial scrub and body exfoliant
Give yourself an invigorating facial and body scrub. Make a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Rub in a gentle circular motion to exfoliate the skin. Rinse clean. This is gentle enough for daily use.
5. Skip harsh deodorant
Pat baking soda onto your underarms to neutralize body odor.
6. Use as an antacid
Baking soda is a safe and effective antacid to relieve heartburn, sour stomach, and/or acid indigestion. Refer to baking soda package for instructions.
7. Treat insect bites and itchy skin
For insect bites, make a paste out of baking soda and water, and apply as a salve onto affected skin. To ease the itch, shake some baking soda into your hand and rub it into damp skin after bath or shower.
8. Make a hand cleanser and softener
Skip harsh soaps and gently scrub away ground-in dirt and neutralize odors on hands with a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water or 3 parts baking soda with gentle liquid hand soap. Then rinse clean.
9. Help your hair
Vinegar is amazing for your hair, but baking soda has its place in the shower too. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda into your palm along with your favorite shampoo. Shampoo as usual and rinse thoroughly — baking soda helps remove the residue that styling products leave behind so your hair is cleaner and more manageable.
10. Clean brushes and combs
For lustrous hair with more shine, keep brushes and combs clean. Remove natural oil build-up and hair product residue by soaking combs and brushes in a solution of 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a small basin of warm water. Rinse and allow to dry.
11. Make a bath soak
Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your bath to neutralize acids on the skin and help wash away oil and perspiration. It also makes your skin feel very soft. Or just focus on soothing your feet. Dissolve 3 tablespoons of baking soda in a tub of warm water and soak feet. Gently scrub.
Cleaning
12. Make a surface soft scrub
For safe, effective cleaning of bathroom tubs, tile, and sinks — even fiberglass and glossy tiles — sprinkle baking soda lightly on a clean damp sponge and scrub as usual. Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry. For extra cleaning power, make a paste with baking soda, coarse salt, and liquid dish soap — let it sit then scour off.
13. Hand-wash dishes and pots and pans
Add 2 heaping tablespoons baking soda (along with your regular dish detergent) to the dish water to help cut grease and foods left on dishes, pots, and pans. For cooked-on foods, let them soak in the baking soda and detergent with water first, then use dry baking soda on a clean damp sponge or cloth as a scratch-less scouring powder.
14. Freshen sponges
Soak stale-smelling sponges in a strong baking soda solution to get rid of the mess (4 tablespoons of baking soda dissolved in 1 quart of warm water). For more thorough disinfecting, use the microwave.
15. Clean the microwave
Baking soda on a clean damp sponge cleans gently inside and outside the microwave and never leaves a harsh chemical smell. Rinse well with water.
16. Polish silver flatware
Use a baking soda paste made with 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Rub onto the silver with a clean cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry for shining sterling and silver-plate serving pieces.
17. Clean coffee and tea pots
Remove coffee and tea stains and eliminate bitter off-tastes by washing mugs and coffee makers in a solution of 1/4 cup baking soda in 1 quart of warm water. For stubborn stains, try soaking overnight in the baking soda solution and detergent or scrubbing with baking soda on a clean damp sponge.
18. Clean the oven
Sprinkle baking soda onto the bottom of the oven. Spray with water to dampen the baking soda. Let sit overnight. In the morning, scrub, scoop the baking soda and grime out with a sponge, or vacuum, and rinse.
19. Clean floors
Remove dirt and grime (without unwanted scratch marks) from no-wax and tile floors using 1/2 cup baking soda in a bucket of warm water — mop and rinse clean for a sparkling floor. For scuff marks, use baking soda on a clean damp sponge, then rinse.
20. Clean furniture
Clean and remove marks (even crayon) from walls and painted furniture by applying baking soda to a damp sponge and rubbing lightly. Wipe off with a clean, dry cloth.
21. Clean shower curtains
Clean and deodorize your vinyl shower curtain by sprinkling baking soda directly on a clean damp sponge or brush. Scrub the shower curtain and rinse clean. Hang it up to dry.
22. Boost your liquid laundry detergent
Give your laundry a boost by adding 1/2 cup of baking soda to your laundry to make liquid detergent work harder. A better balance of pH in the wash gets clothes cleaner, fresher, and brighter. Or you can add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the rinse cycle for fresher sheets and towels or to neutralize gym clothes and odoriferous clothing.
23. Clean and freshen sports gear
Use a baking soda solution (4 tablespoons baking soda in 1 quart warm water) to clean and deodorize smelly sports equipment. Sprinkle baking soda into golf bags and gym bags to deodorize and clean golf irons (without scratching them!) with a baking soda paste (3 parts baking soda to 1 part water) and a brush. Rinse thoroughly.
24. Remove oil and grease stains
Use baking soda to clean up light-duty oil and grease spills on your garage floor or in your driveway. Sprinkle baking soda on the spot and scrub with a wet brush.
25. Clean batteries
Baking soda can be used to neutralize battery acid corrosion on cars, mowers, etc., because its a mild alkali. Be sure to disconnect the battery terminals before cleaning. Make a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water and apply with a damp cloth to scrub corrosion from the battery terminal. After cleaning and reconnecting the terminals, wipe them with petroleum jelly to prevent future corrosion. Please be careful when working around a battery — they contain a strong acid.
26. Clean cars
Use baking soda to clean your car lights, chrome, windows, tires, vinyl seats, and floor mats without worrying about unwanted scratch marks. Use a baking soda solution of 1/4 cup baking soda in 1 quart of warm water. Apply with a sponge or soft cloth to remove road grime, tree sap, bugs, and tar. For stubborn stains use baking soda sprinkled on a damp sponge or soft brush. Eliminate odors by sprinkling baking soda directly on fabric car seats and carpets. Wait 15 minutes (or longer for strong odors) and vacuum up the baking soda.
Deodorizing
27. Deodorize your refrigerator
Place an open box in the back of the fridge to neutralize odors.
28. Deodorize trashcans and recyclables
Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of your trashcan to keep stinky trash smells at bay. Clean your recyclables container periodically by sprinkling baking soda on a damp sponge. Wipe clean and rinse. Also, sprinkle baking soda on top as you add recyclables to the bin.
29. Deodorize drains and garbage disposals
To deodorize your sink and tub drains and garbage disposal and keep lingering odors from resurfacing, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain while running warm tap water — it will neutralize both acid and basic odors for a fresh drain. (This a good way to dispose of baking soda that is being retired from your refrigerator.)
30. Deodorize and clean dishwashers
Use baking soda to deodorize before you run the dishwasher and then as a gentle cleanser in the wash cycle.
31. Deodorize lunch boxes
Between uses, place a spill-proof box of baking soda in everyone’s lunch box to absorb lingering odors.
32. Remove odor from carpets
Liberally sprinkle baking soda on the carpet. Let set overnight or as long as possible (the longer it sets the better it works). Sweep up the larger amounts of baking soda, and vacuum up the rest. (Note that your vacuum cleaner bag will get full and heavy.) An added bonus: You'll also deodorize your vacuum cleaner.
33. Freshen closets
Place a box on the shelf to keep the closet smelling fresh.
34. Deodorize pet items
Cover the bottom of your cat box with baking soda, then fill as usual with litter. To freshen between changes, sprinkle baking soda on top of the litter after a thorough cleaning. Eliminate odors from your pet's bedding by sprinkling liberally with baking soda, wait 15 minutes (or longer for stronger odors), then vacuum up.
35. Deodorize sneakers
Keep odors from spreading in smelly sneakers by shaking baking soda into them when not in use. Shake out before wearing.
36. Freshen stuffed animals
Keep favorite cuddly toys fresh with a dry shower of baking soda. Sprinkle baking soda on and let it sit for 15 minutes before brushing off.
Miscellaneous
37. Cure all camping needs
Baking soda is a must-have for your next camping trip. It's a dish-washer, pot-scrubber, hand-cleanser, deodorant, toothpaste, and fire extinguisher, and has many other uses.
38. Extinguish fires
Baking soda can help in the initial handling of minor grease or electrical kitchen fires, because when baking soda is heated, it gives off carbon dioxide, which helps to smother the flames. For small cooking fires (frying pans, broilers, ovens, grills), turn off the gas or electricity if you can safely do so. Stand back and throw handfuls of baking soda at the base of the flame to help put out the fire — and call the fire department just to be safe.
39. Care for the septic system
Regular use of baking soda in your drains can help keep your septic system flowing freely. One cup of baking soda per week will help maintain a favorable pH in your septic tank.
40. Scrub fruits and vegetables
Baking soda is the food safe way to clean dirt and residue off fresh fruit and vegetables. Just sprinkle a little on a clean damp sponge, scrub and rinse.
Personal Care
1. Make toothpaste
A paste made from baking soda and a 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution can be used as an alternative to commercial non-fluoride toothpastes. (Or here’s a formula for a minty version.) You can also just dip your toothbrush with toothpaste into baking soda for an extra boost.
2. Freshen your mouth
Put one teaspoon in half a glass of water, swish, spit, and rinse. Odors are neutralized, not just covered up.
3. Soak oral appliance
Soak oral appliances (like retainers, mouthpieces, and dentures) in a solution of 2 teaspoons baking soda dissolved in a glass or small bowl of warm water. The baking soda loosens food particles and neutralizes odors to keep appliances fresh. You can also brush appliances clean using baking soda.
4. Use as a facial scrub and body exfoliant
Give yourself an invigorating facial and body scrub. Make a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Rub in a gentle circular motion to exfoliate the skin. Rinse clean. This is gentle enough for daily use.
5. Skip harsh deodorant
Pat baking soda onto your underarms to neutralize body odor.
6. Use as an antacid
Baking soda is a safe and effective antacid to relieve heartburn, sour stomach, and/or acid indigestion. Refer to baking soda package for instructions.
7. Treat insect bites and itchy skin
For insect bites, make a paste out of baking soda and water, and apply as a salve onto affected skin. To ease the itch, shake some baking soda into your hand and rub it into damp skin after bath or shower.
8. Make a hand cleanser and softener
Skip harsh soaps and gently scrub away ground-in dirt and neutralize odors on hands with a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water or 3 parts baking soda with gentle liquid hand soap. Then rinse clean.
9. Help your hair
Vinegar is amazing for your hair, but baking soda has its place in the shower too. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda into your palm along with your favorite shampoo. Shampoo as usual and rinse thoroughly — baking soda helps remove the residue that styling products leave behind so your hair is cleaner and more manageable.
10. Clean brushes and combs
For lustrous hair with more shine, keep brushes and combs clean. Remove natural oil build-up and hair product residue by soaking combs and brushes in a solution of 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a small basin of warm water. Rinse and allow to dry.
11. Make a bath soak
Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your bath to neutralize acids on the skin and help wash away oil and perspiration. It also makes your skin feel very soft. Or just focus on soothing your feet. Dissolve 3 tablespoons of baking soda in a tub of warm water and soak feet. Gently scrub.
Cleaning
12. Make a surface soft scrub
For safe, effective cleaning of bathroom tubs, tile, and sinks — even fiberglass and glossy tiles — sprinkle baking soda lightly on a clean damp sponge and scrub as usual. Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry. For extra cleaning power, make a paste with baking soda, coarse salt, and liquid dish soap — let it sit then scour off.
13. Hand-wash dishes and pots and pans
Add 2 heaping tablespoons baking soda (along with your regular dish detergent) to the dish water to help cut grease and foods left on dishes, pots, and pans. For cooked-on foods, let them soak in the baking soda and detergent with water first, then use dry baking soda on a clean damp sponge or cloth as a scratch-less scouring powder.
14. Freshen sponges
Soak stale-smelling sponges in a strong baking soda solution to get rid of the mess (4 tablespoons of baking soda dissolved in 1 quart of warm water). For more thorough disinfecting, use the microwave.
15. Clean the microwave
Baking soda on a clean damp sponge cleans gently inside and outside the microwave and never leaves a harsh chemical smell. Rinse well with water.
16. Polish silver flatware
Use a baking soda paste made with 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Rub onto the silver with a clean cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry for shining sterling and silver-plate serving pieces.
17. Clean coffee and tea pots
Remove coffee and tea stains and eliminate bitter off-tastes by washing mugs and coffee makers in a solution of 1/4 cup baking soda in 1 quart of warm water. For stubborn stains, try soaking overnight in the baking soda solution and detergent or scrubbing with baking soda on a clean damp sponge.
18. Clean the oven
Sprinkle baking soda onto the bottom of the oven. Spray with water to dampen the baking soda. Let sit overnight. In the morning, scrub, scoop the baking soda and grime out with a sponge, or vacuum, and rinse.
19. Clean floors
Remove dirt and grime (without unwanted scratch marks) from no-wax and tile floors using 1/2 cup baking soda in a bucket of warm water — mop and rinse clean for a sparkling floor. For scuff marks, use baking soda on a clean damp sponge, then rinse.
20. Clean furniture
Clean and remove marks (even crayon) from walls and painted furniture by applying baking soda to a damp sponge and rubbing lightly. Wipe off with a clean, dry cloth.
21. Clean shower curtains
Clean and deodorize your vinyl shower curtain by sprinkling baking soda directly on a clean damp sponge or brush. Scrub the shower curtain and rinse clean. Hang it up to dry.
22. Boost your liquid laundry detergent
Give your laundry a boost by adding 1/2 cup of baking soda to your laundry to make liquid detergent work harder. A better balance of pH in the wash gets clothes cleaner, fresher, and brighter. Or you can add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the rinse cycle for fresher sheets and towels or to neutralize gym clothes and odoriferous clothing.
23. Clean and freshen sports gear
Use a baking soda solution (4 tablespoons baking soda in 1 quart warm water) to clean and deodorize smelly sports equipment. Sprinkle baking soda into golf bags and gym bags to deodorize and clean golf irons (without scratching them!) with a baking soda paste (3 parts baking soda to 1 part water) and a brush. Rinse thoroughly.
24. Remove oil and grease stains
Use baking soda to clean up light-duty oil and grease spills on your garage floor or in your driveway. Sprinkle baking soda on the spot and scrub with a wet brush.
25. Clean batteries
Baking soda can be used to neutralize battery acid corrosion on cars, mowers, etc., because its a mild alkali. Be sure to disconnect the battery terminals before cleaning. Make a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water and apply with a damp cloth to scrub corrosion from the battery terminal. After cleaning and reconnecting the terminals, wipe them with petroleum jelly to prevent future corrosion. Please be careful when working around a battery — they contain a strong acid.
26. Clean cars
Use baking soda to clean your car lights, chrome, windows, tires, vinyl seats, and floor mats without worrying about unwanted scratch marks. Use a baking soda solution of 1/4 cup baking soda in 1 quart of warm water. Apply with a sponge or soft cloth to remove road grime, tree sap, bugs, and tar. For stubborn stains use baking soda sprinkled on a damp sponge or soft brush. Eliminate odors by sprinkling baking soda directly on fabric car seats and carpets. Wait 15 minutes (or longer for strong odors) and vacuum up the baking soda.
Deodorizing
27. Deodorize your refrigerator
Place an open box in the back of the fridge to neutralize odors.
28. Deodorize trashcans and recyclables
Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of your trashcan to keep stinky trash smells at bay. Clean your recyclables container periodically by sprinkling baking soda on a damp sponge. Wipe clean and rinse. Also, sprinkle baking soda on top as you add recyclables to the bin.
29. Deodorize drains and garbage disposals
To deodorize your sink and tub drains and garbage disposal and keep lingering odors from resurfacing, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain while running warm tap water — it will neutralize both acid and basic odors for a fresh drain. (This a good way to dispose of baking soda that is being retired from your refrigerator.)
30. Deodorize and clean dishwashers
Use baking soda to deodorize before you run the dishwasher and then as a gentle cleanser in the wash cycle.
31. Deodorize lunch boxes
Between uses, place a spill-proof box of baking soda in everyone’s lunch box to absorb lingering odors.
32. Remove odor from carpets
Liberally sprinkle baking soda on the carpet. Let set overnight or as long as possible (the longer it sets the better it works). Sweep up the larger amounts of baking soda, and vacuum up the rest. (Note that your vacuum cleaner bag will get full and heavy.) An added bonus: You'll also deodorize your vacuum cleaner.
33. Freshen closets
Place a box on the shelf to keep the closet smelling fresh.
34. Deodorize pet items
Cover the bottom of your cat box with baking soda, then fill as usual with litter. To freshen between changes, sprinkle baking soda on top of the litter after a thorough cleaning. Eliminate odors from your pet's bedding by sprinkling liberally with baking soda, wait 15 minutes (or longer for stronger odors), then vacuum up.
35. Deodorize sneakers
Keep odors from spreading in smelly sneakers by shaking baking soda into them when not in use. Shake out before wearing.
36. Freshen stuffed animals
Keep favorite cuddly toys fresh with a dry shower of baking soda. Sprinkle baking soda on and let it sit for 15 minutes before brushing off.
Miscellaneous
37. Cure all camping needs
Baking soda is a must-have for your next camping trip. It's a dish-washer, pot-scrubber, hand-cleanser, deodorant, toothpaste, and fire extinguisher, and has many other uses.
38. Extinguish fires
Baking soda can help in the initial handling of minor grease or electrical kitchen fires, because when baking soda is heated, it gives off carbon dioxide, which helps to smother the flames. For small cooking fires (frying pans, broilers, ovens, grills), turn off the gas or electricity if you can safely do so. Stand back and throw handfuls of baking soda at the base of the flame to help put out the fire — and call the fire department just to be safe.
39. Care for the septic system
Regular use of baking soda in your drains can help keep your septic system flowing freely. One cup of baking soda per week will help maintain a favorable pH in your septic tank.
40. Scrub fruits and vegetables
Baking soda is the food safe way to clean dirt and residue off fresh fruit and vegetables. Just sprinkle a little on a clean damp sponge, scrub and rinse.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
BP and the destruction of the South's coastline
The oil spill first happened 6 weeks ago. It has polluted 125 miles of Louisiana coastline. Crude has already been reported along the barrier islands of Alabama and Mississippi. More and more federal and state fishing waters are being shut down. Everything they have tried to "fix" the problem has failed. Now there won't be a permanent fix until (maybe) AUGUST???
Why is it that these big oil companies can pump and pump oil, charge the consumer whatever they wish per gallon, but not be required to already have emergency plans AND the equipment needed set it place? For all of the money that oil companies have made over the years, they should have been implementing ways to fix an oil leak. Isn't it worth a couple of million dollars to already have a proven plan of action rather than risking the destruction of our oceans and coastline? It's not like it's just some beaches that will become "dirty". Fisherman rely on fishing waters to make a living. Americans rely on the fisherman for their food. Small towns all along the coast of the areas affected rely on the tourism to feed their families. And now BP is throwing $5,000 at people who have lost their entire way of living and think these working class families can live on that? What happens when the tide takes the oil up the Mississippi River, or if it makes its way around the Florida panhandle, or past Texas and up the Pacific Ocean? Florida beaches aren't even being protected because it is "too difficult". It is easier to clean it up.
The government and President are completely dropping the ball. The President has ordered an independent commission to examine the disaster and "to follow the facts wherever they lead, without fear or favor." He has also said that if the laws are insufficient and if the government oversight wasn't tough enough, it will change.
Dear Mr. President, Stop having your assistant write up statements that sound intelligent and make it seem like you are involved in controlling this disaster. I want to know what the government is doing to HELP the situation. What the government is doing to protect more areas from being destroyed. What is the government's plan of action when it comes to cleaning up this mess.
This is a huge disaster that we are going to be seeing the negative effects for a very, very long time... A disaster that could have been controlled from the beginning if the laws had already been put in place and if BP would have been proactive.
Why is it that these big oil companies can pump and pump oil, charge the consumer whatever they wish per gallon, but not be required to already have emergency plans AND the equipment needed set it place? For all of the money that oil companies have made over the years, they should have been implementing ways to fix an oil leak. Isn't it worth a couple of million dollars to already have a proven plan of action rather than risking the destruction of our oceans and coastline? It's not like it's just some beaches that will become "dirty". Fisherman rely on fishing waters to make a living. Americans rely on the fisherman for their food. Small towns all along the coast of the areas affected rely on the tourism to feed their families. And now BP is throwing $5,000 at people who have lost their entire way of living and think these working class families can live on that? What happens when the tide takes the oil up the Mississippi River, or if it makes its way around the Florida panhandle, or past Texas and up the Pacific Ocean? Florida beaches aren't even being protected because it is "too difficult". It is easier to clean it up.
The government and President are completely dropping the ball. The President has ordered an independent commission to examine the disaster and "to follow the facts wherever they lead, without fear or favor." He has also said that if the laws are insufficient and if the government oversight wasn't tough enough, it will change.
Dear Mr. President, Stop having your assistant write up statements that sound intelligent and make it seem like you are involved in controlling this disaster. I want to know what the government is doing to HELP the situation. What the government is doing to protect more areas from being destroyed. What is the government's plan of action when it comes to cleaning up this mess.
This is a huge disaster that we are going to be seeing the negative effects for a very, very long time... A disaster that could have been controlled from the beginning if the laws had already been put in place and if BP would have been proactive.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
I don't understand Americans fascination with celebrities. Paparazzi now seems like a viscous wolf pack who will stop at nothing to get a picture. Even at an event as unimportant as a "Bachelor Wedding", one of the paps was put into a headlock and carried out. Stories have been published about camera men who cause accidents trying to get the perfect shot. And the sad thing is that people eat it up! Standing in the aisle of the grocery store, you can find multiple gossip magazines and they are all filled with the "scoop".
There are things that are just plain ridiculous... The fact that Heidi Montag got TEN plastic surgeries in a day is sad. Charlie Sheen shopping in his pj's has no impact on my day. Andy Dick got thrown out of yet another establishment for being drunk? That is still news?? But when it comes to family matters, I really think that is a line that the media should not cross.
Tiger Woods was stupid. He is quite possibly the most recognizable and successful athlete in the world. He has his excuses and he has his shortfalls. But the facts are facts. He should have remained faithful. And now that it has been exposed that he slept around with multiple women, the media should leave it alone. Let him work it out with his wife in their own private settings. Stop interviewing the "other women". No one cares about the bartenders, call girls, or bikini models he supposedly slept with. Think about his 2 small children who are being affected by this whole ordeal. No matter how much the family will try to shelter them from this, the kids are going to know what happened as they grow up. And then people will wonder why the kids have issues, which will then make the gossip mags. It's a viscous cycle that revolves around the media. Elin can't even pick her kids up from preschool without the paps swarming!!!
Then there is the Sandra Bullock story. Everyone is making comments about how she is staying out of the public eye... GOOD FOR HER! Her husband is a dirtball and she is making sure that everything stays private. It's the way a classic relationship works. You don't air your dirty laundry!! I say good for you Sandra!
It seems like celebrities and athletes think they are in a world of their own. They can do what they want, when they want, and get away with it. It does not matter what is exposed, because it is going to get a lot of media attention, their wives will slink in the background, receive a large divorce settlement, and then the cheater is back on the market to do it again. Then they will get a slap on the wrist from their agent or team. What ever happened to strong marriages that were based on trust and loyalty? Obviously, foundations are not being laid to enforce what marriage is meant to be - a life long commitment.
There are things that are just plain ridiculous... The fact that Heidi Montag got TEN plastic surgeries in a day is sad. Charlie Sheen shopping in his pj's has no impact on my day. Andy Dick got thrown out of yet another establishment for being drunk? That is still news?? But when it comes to family matters, I really think that is a line that the media should not cross.
Tiger Woods was stupid. He is quite possibly the most recognizable and successful athlete in the world. He has his excuses and he has his shortfalls. But the facts are facts. He should have remained faithful. And now that it has been exposed that he slept around with multiple women, the media should leave it alone. Let him work it out with his wife in their own private settings. Stop interviewing the "other women". No one cares about the bartenders, call girls, or bikini models he supposedly slept with. Think about his 2 small children who are being affected by this whole ordeal. No matter how much the family will try to shelter them from this, the kids are going to know what happened as they grow up. And then people will wonder why the kids have issues, which will then make the gossip mags. It's a viscous cycle that revolves around the media. Elin can't even pick her kids up from preschool without the paps swarming!!!
Then there is the Sandra Bullock story. Everyone is making comments about how she is staying out of the public eye... GOOD FOR HER! Her husband is a dirtball and she is making sure that everything stays private. It's the way a classic relationship works. You don't air your dirty laundry!! I say good for you Sandra!
It seems like celebrities and athletes think they are in a world of their own. They can do what they want, when they want, and get away with it. It does not matter what is exposed, because it is going to get a lot of media attention, their wives will slink in the background, receive a large divorce settlement, and then the cheater is back on the market to do it again. Then they will get a slap on the wrist from their agent or team. What ever happened to strong marriages that were based on trust and loyalty? Obviously, foundations are not being laid to enforce what marriage is meant to be - a life long commitment.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Hello Spring!
Wow! I haven't posted in months!! Spring has finally arrived! The earth is awake again! Good bye ice and snow!
So far, we have had many blessings in 2010! We are expecting baby #3! My due date is Sept 2. Willie & Bella are very excited about another brother or sister. The names they come up with are hysterical. Willie's newest is Backo (like the construction machine)!
We had Easter at our house again this past Sunday. It is always so nice to have family together and seeing the kids play. The Easter Egg Hunt was once again a success! One of the youngest found the "Golden Egg" (worth 20 bucks!) and her excitement running back to the porch was so sweet! She didn't even care about the money.. just the fact that she found the egg! I love the toddler stages!
I guess now that the ground is no longer frozen, I will be on here more often! Things are more exciting in the spring ... Stay tuned!
So far, we have had many blessings in 2010! We are expecting baby #3! My due date is Sept 2. Willie & Bella are very excited about another brother or sister. The names they come up with are hysterical. Willie's newest is Backo (like the construction machine)!
We had Easter at our house again this past Sunday. It is always so nice to have family together and seeing the kids play. The Easter Egg Hunt was once again a success! One of the youngest found the "Golden Egg" (worth 20 bucks!) and her excitement running back to the porch was so sweet! She didn't even care about the money.. just the fact that she found the egg! I love the toddler stages!
I guess now that the ground is no longer frozen, I will be on here more often! Things are more exciting in the spring ... Stay tuned!
Monday, July 27, 2009
The disturbing rise of obesity in the US
My body is not perfect. I won't be landing a Hawaiian Sun contract any time soon. But I make an effort to workout for at least 30 minutes 4-5 times a week so I can be healthy. I want to be a good role model for my kids. I want them to know that working out and setting goals are healthy for you both physically and mentally.
The fact that America is #9 out of 193 countries on the obesity chart is outrageous and disgusting! 74.1 % of Americans are considered overweight or obese. This is the land of opportunity, the country where anything is possible! Has this made Americans lazy? Is self esteem at an all time low? Don't people look in the mirror and say "WOW! I have let myself go!"? Even designers are starting to adapt to the obesity rage. Flowing, empire waist shirts and dresses look pretty..... they also hide the bulge! You have chubby legs? Throw on a long maxi dress! I recently read how stores are changing women's clothing sizes. If you wore a six a year ago, the same size is probably now tagged as a four. They are fudging the sizes so women feel better about themselves when shopping, hence spending more money.
It makes my stomach turn when I see kids who are already overweight before they even know how to make decisions regarding what to eat and how to exercise. Children who are obese have an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, orthopedic problems, liver disease, and asthma. We have the knowledge and resources to keep our bodies healthy, so why do parents shove fast food and junk down their family's throats? Now take a look out your front door. If we rewind 20 years, you would see kids riding their bikes, playing hopscotch, or running around during a friendly game of tag. I live in a neighborhood where every house has at least one kid, but the only kids I see running around are my own. Television, computers and video games rob children of time that should be spent building friendships and releasing energy out doors.
Our society is making it acceptable to be fat. Most people don't look twice at a woman who is 250 pounds or a man whose stomach is dragging 3 inches below his belt. Most likely, they are overweight themselves and probably thinking "Good thing I'm not that big". I think obesity is going to have a snowball effect and not only will our country have excessive medical problems, but we will also have a shorter life expectancy.
Losing weight does not have be a drastic life change. Little changes that you will barely notice can make a big difference. Talking with a woman from my gym this morning, she told me how she has lost 28 pounds in four months. She replaced one soda a day with a glass of water and one "junk food" snack with a piece of fruit and yogurt. She only works out 3-4 times a week for 30-45 minutes. My two tricks are to drink a glass of water when I feel hungry and if I know we are going to eat a high calorie meal, I eat an apple 30-60 minutes before. Also, set goals for yourself with a reward when you hit your goal on time. Whether you want to lose 10 pounds, or 100, these little changes can make a big difference in your life.
Americans can be successful, healthy and happy. Stop the excuses and start working on yourself!
The fact that America is #9 out of 193 countries on the obesity chart is outrageous and disgusting! 74.1 % of Americans are considered overweight or obese. This is the land of opportunity, the country where anything is possible! Has this made Americans lazy? Is self esteem at an all time low? Don't people look in the mirror and say "WOW! I have let myself go!"? Even designers are starting to adapt to the obesity rage. Flowing, empire waist shirts and dresses look pretty..... they also hide the bulge! You have chubby legs? Throw on a long maxi dress! I recently read how stores are changing women's clothing sizes. If you wore a six a year ago, the same size is probably now tagged as a four. They are fudging the sizes so women feel better about themselves when shopping, hence spending more money.
It makes my stomach turn when I see kids who are already overweight before they even know how to make decisions regarding what to eat and how to exercise. Children who are obese have an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, orthopedic problems, liver disease, and asthma. We have the knowledge and resources to keep our bodies healthy, so why do parents shove fast food and junk down their family's throats? Now take a look out your front door. If we rewind 20 years, you would see kids riding their bikes, playing hopscotch, or running around during a friendly game of tag. I live in a neighborhood where every house has at least one kid, but the only kids I see running around are my own. Television, computers and video games rob children of time that should be spent building friendships and releasing energy out doors.
Our society is making it acceptable to be fat. Most people don't look twice at a woman who is 250 pounds or a man whose stomach is dragging 3 inches below his belt. Most likely, they are overweight themselves and probably thinking "Good thing I'm not that big". I think obesity is going to have a snowball effect and not only will our country have excessive medical problems, but we will also have a shorter life expectancy.
Losing weight does not have be a drastic life change. Little changes that you will barely notice can make a big difference. Talking with a woman from my gym this morning, she told me how she has lost 28 pounds in four months. She replaced one soda a day with a glass of water and one "junk food" snack with a piece of fruit and yogurt. She only works out 3-4 times a week for 30-45 minutes. My two tricks are to drink a glass of water when I feel hungry and if I know we are going to eat a high calorie meal, I eat an apple 30-60 minutes before. Also, set goals for yourself with a reward when you hit your goal on time. Whether you want to lose 10 pounds, or 100, these little changes can make a big difference in your life.
Americans can be successful, healthy and happy. Stop the excuses and start working on yourself!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Simple Pleasures..
After a couple months of anticipation, today was Willie's first circus! He has been watching videos on www.ringling.com since we purchased the tickets, but nothing could compare to him seeing it in person. He's only two, so he had his moments of wanting to stand, walk around, and get on stage. But the look on his face when he saw the motorcycles and elephants is a feeling you can't really describe. I know he probably won't remember being there before when we take him again next year, but the look of surprise and wonderment is something I certainly won't forget!
Friday, March 27, 2009
Turn signal please!
List of things I see people do while driving down the road:
- Talking on the cell phone
- Eating
- Reading the newspaper (SERIOUSLY!!!)
- Text messaging
- Reaching for something in the passenger or back seat
- Singing
- Opening mail
- Jotting down notes
Why is it that the everyday driver can do pretty much anything that you are not supposed to do while driving, but cannot do the MOST SIMPLE task that is required when driving? When you were 16, going for your license, I'm pretty sure your instructor did not say to you: "Now remember to not pay attention to the road by shoving a cheeseburger down your throat and catching up on today's news!" Seriously, people! Is it THAT HARD to use your turn signal? Just a little flick of the finger is all it takes... And not THAT flick of the finger, which people can do pretty well, too!
It all boils down to one thing... people are so lazy that they can't pay attention to what's going on around them while on the road! I am driving to work yesterday and an 18-wheeler (going too fast as always) literally ran me off the road. No turn signal, no response to me laying on the horn, and it all happened in the view of a state trooper! I had to slam on my breaks on the shoulder of the road about 50 feet behind the trooper as he was getting into his car after giving some other idiot a ticket. Needless to say, he gave me a thumbs up to make sure I was OK and flew after the truck. I can't even imagine what would have happened if I was one of the drivers above who was immersed in a novel.
You wouldn't walk around your house at night without flipping on/off your light switch. Don't change lanes without flipping on your turn signal!
... Just don't be that old guy who drives with it on for 5 miles :)
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Listen up!
As I sit on the couch, talking my day over with one of my best friends, I realize that there are a lot of stupid people! The things I read, see, and hear on a daily basis make me want to pull my hair out and scream! So this is my new outlet... let the voice of freedom ring (while it still can)! I hope you love it... I hope you hate it... More than anything, I hope you leave your comments!
And remember to always use your turn signals...
And remember to always use your turn signals...
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