Don't reuse your NingXia Red bottle for lemon water.
Here's why....people will think you're drinking Vodka straight from the bottle!!!
I started teacher training this past week and had a genius idea to reuse an empty NingXia Red bottle for lemon water. I was going to be gone all day and my normal mason jar wasn't going to be enough H20 to get me thru the day. I washed and refilled the bottle with lemon water and went to work. (Side note: I'm in a new district this year and no know one). I walk into training and before I sit down someone said, "Girl you're crazy, we need to be friends." I had no idea what she was talking about and I smiled, laughed and sat elsewhere. I was assuming it was because I got there with about a minute to spare.
Fast forward to day 2 and instead of being at new teacher training, I'm with all of the other elementary teachers. I was stopped 8...yes 8 TIMES by random groups of people saying something like, "ok we've placed bets on what's in the bottle" or "why would you bring the good stuff and not share?"
The best is when my new Assistant Principal said something. (thankfully it was really funny)
Not exactly the way I wanted to make a name for myself but I got to talk about oils....alot.
Showing posts with label when you are bored. Show all posts
Showing posts with label when you are bored. Show all posts
Saturday, August 16, 2014
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Defeat or Growth? You decide.
Still alive...still hanging in there...in fact, I think I've adapted well to "survival mode." And I'm not afraid to say it, I'm pretty darn proud of myself.
Next Sunday is my 29th birthday. Up until today, I really hadn't thought about it as a celebration. For the first time on my birthday, I'm not in a place where I thought I could be proud of myself. I don't have a career...in fact, I don't really have a job. I'm not working toward anything in my relationship, heck, we don't even see eye to eye at this point. I'm not independent. And for once, I don't think I consider myself a role model for anything other than "what not to do."
But then I got to thinking. I'm surviving. I think a lot of people would've given up by now, but I haven't yet. And in fact, I'm not even so fragile that people have adjusted how they are around me. I still have friends coming to ME for advice, the only difference is that I'm leaning back on them more than ever.
And perhaps the most amazing thing is that I feel stronger with each passing day.
I've had this amazing thing happen to me in the last month, horrible but amazing....I have been attacked. Not physically, but emotionally and psychologically by another person. Now granted, that is a dramatic term but when someone knows their actions will hurt another person and continues to do them, I consider that an attack.
I generally consider myself a good person so it's been hard to understand why I've been the target and I've almost let it get the best of me. I've done everything I can to learn anything and everything about my attacker and monitored them in any way and every way possible. I felt that this was my own way of protecting myself. And I felt exhausted and emotionally sabotaged.
But this week, I decided that it doesn't matter. It doesn't matter what malicious or vindictive reasons people have to do bad things. What matters is how you let those decisions affect you (affect or effect??? i dont remember). In the last few days I realized that I'm not going to let it affect me anymore. I can't control what other people do, all I can control is myself.
And I choose to be a better person. I choose to make the right decisions, I choose to let a higher power handle it. Because my job, the only full time job I have right now, is to be good. To be strong. To survive. Dramatic, I know....but just go with me on this.
So to this person, I forgive you, even though you haven't asked for it nor do you probably want it. I will pray for you to have the same "awakening" as I have had this week. And I pray that you get what it is that you desire so badly. Because for me, it's not about what I desire anymore, it's about what I need. And I've realized that I have everything that I truly need and those things cannot be taken away. So I will be okay no matter what desires you try to take from me....even if you succeed.
And next Sunday, on my 29th birthday, I will be proud of the person that I have become. A person who is constantly evolving, constantly trying to be a better version of herself, and more recently...a person who takes a deep breath...forgives without stipulations...and moves on.
Next Sunday is my 29th birthday. Up until today, I really hadn't thought about it as a celebration. For the first time on my birthday, I'm not in a place where I thought I could be proud of myself. I don't have a career...in fact, I don't really have a job. I'm not working toward anything in my relationship, heck, we don't even see eye to eye at this point. I'm not independent. And for once, I don't think I consider myself a role model for anything other than "what not to do."
But then I got to thinking. I'm surviving. I think a lot of people would've given up by now, but I haven't yet. And in fact, I'm not even so fragile that people have adjusted how they are around me. I still have friends coming to ME for advice, the only difference is that I'm leaning back on them more than ever.
And perhaps the most amazing thing is that I feel stronger with each passing day.
I've had this amazing thing happen to me in the last month, horrible but amazing....I have been attacked. Not physically, but emotionally and psychologically by another person. Now granted, that is a dramatic term but when someone knows their actions will hurt another person and continues to do them, I consider that an attack.
I generally consider myself a good person so it's been hard to understand why I've been the target and I've almost let it get the best of me. I've done everything I can to learn anything and everything about my attacker and monitored them in any way and every way possible. I felt that this was my own way of protecting myself. And I felt exhausted and emotionally sabotaged.
But this week, I decided that it doesn't matter. It doesn't matter what malicious or vindictive reasons people have to do bad things. What matters is how you let those decisions affect you (affect or effect??? i dont remember). In the last few days I realized that I'm not going to let it affect me anymore. I can't control what other people do, all I can control is myself.
And I choose to be a better person. I choose to make the right decisions, I choose to let a higher power handle it. Because my job, the only full time job I have right now, is to be good. To be strong. To survive. Dramatic, I know....but just go with me on this.
So to this person, I forgive you, even though you haven't asked for it nor do you probably want it. I will pray for you to have the same "awakening" as I have had this week. And I pray that you get what it is that you desire so badly. Because for me, it's not about what I desire anymore, it's about what I need. And I've realized that I have everything that I truly need and those things cannot be taken away. So I will be okay no matter what desires you try to take from me....even if you succeed.
And next Sunday, on my 29th birthday, I will be proud of the person that I have become. A person who is constantly evolving, constantly trying to be a better version of herself, and more recently...a person who takes a deep breath...forgives without stipulations...and moves on.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Cooler than cookies??? No way!
We had a knock on our front door on Sunday afternoon. When I opened it, I saw our neighbors from a few doors down and their daughter at our door. I opened the door and realized that she was wearing brown vest...I thought it was an odd choice in attire and then it hit me!!!
"Would you like to buy some girl scout cookies?"
Oh yes my dear dear friends....it's that time again. I CAN NOT Believe it!!! Last year, you remember my desperate quest to find these $3.50 boxes of happiness and could not find them. And this year, before I even realized it was time, they came to me! I asked BF if he wanted any because obviously I was buying some and he yelled from the back room "Samoas and Thin Mints." You see, this is why we work together. He knows the names of his GS cookies of choice without a second thought.
I'm not sure when she'll deliver my cookies but I'm thinking I should buy more than I did....I mean, really, 2 boxes of thin mints? Who am I kidding...I have plenty of room in my freezer! One day, yes one day....I will be cookie mom.
And anyone who doesn't plan to buy some....please at least buy a box or two. These girls go thru actual sales routines and practicing...they are prepared to answer your questions should you be diabetic, etc. They don't just grab a box and knock on your door!!! And there are prizes that they get depending on how much they sell.
Happy eating!
"Would you like to buy some girl scout cookies?"
Oh yes my dear dear friends....it's that time again. I CAN NOT Believe it!!! Last year, you remember my desperate quest to find these $3.50 boxes of happiness and could not find them. And this year, before I even realized it was time, they came to me! I asked BF if he wanted any because obviously I was buying some and he yelled from the back room "Samoas and Thin Mints." You see, this is why we work together. He knows the names of his GS cookies of choice without a second thought.
I'm not sure when she'll deliver my cookies but I'm thinking I should buy more than I did....I mean, really, 2 boxes of thin mints? Who am I kidding...I have plenty of room in my freezer! One day, yes one day....I will be cookie mom.
And anyone who doesn't plan to buy some....please at least buy a box or two. These girls go thru actual sales routines and practicing...they are prepared to answer your questions should you be diabetic, etc. They don't just grab a box and knock on your door!!! And there are prizes that they get depending on how much they sell.
Happy eating!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Don't Wig Out
There are no words...and no need for them. Sorry, I don't know how to rotate the video:
Monday, December 8, 2008
crazy lights
In a neighborhood near ours lives this man who goes all out when it comes to Christmas lights. And I mean ALL OUT. He has his own small radio station that he broadcasts from his home and his lights are hooked up to the music. He adds more each year...this video is from last year. Check this out:
Thursday, December 4, 2008
25, 24, 23, 22, 21, 20, 19, 18..............
It's no secret that I have a ridiculously girlie taste in TV. Reality, Romance, Trash....I watch it.
And the best time of year for me is ABC Family's 25 Days of Christmas and Falalala Lifetime.
Thats right, friends. Every day until Christmas a made for tv movie or otherwise seasonal flick is showing on these channels. Add in an occiasional TLC or WE special and you have yourself some holiday entertainment for the rest of 2008. And, if you have or On Demand, you can watch them at your convenience without paying the extra $14.99 a month for the DVR box! I love it!
So far my favorites are Borrowed Hearts, Christmas Do-Over, Picking Up & Dropping Off (old but good)
And the best time of year for me is ABC Family's 25 Days of Christmas and Falalala Lifetime.
Thats right, friends. Every day until Christmas a made for tv movie or otherwise seasonal flick is showing on these channels. Add in an occiasional TLC or WE special and you have yourself some holiday entertainment for the rest of 2008. And, if you have or On Demand, you can watch them at your convenience without paying the extra $14.99 a month for the DVR box! I love it!
So far my favorites are Borrowed Hearts, Christmas Do-Over, Picking Up & Dropping Off (old but good)
Thursday, October 2, 2008
AWESOME
I don't usually preempt my own blog but I saw this today and thought it was definitely worth it. So watch this and then scroll down and read my other blog for today (so that it doesn't feel cheated)
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Po Po Patrol
On my drive home yesterday I noticed 3 police officers standing at the end of my street. Thankfully I was going the speed limit and I was very pleased to see that they were running radar on people driving down the cross street. I quietly laughed to myself as I realized that I'm at the point in my life where I appreciate the police presence instead of hide from it.
Now I don't consider myself to be old by any means...BUT...I have noticed that I am older and with that age/time, has come the appreciation for different things.
So here, my friends, is a top 10 list for you.
Top 10 Things I appreciate NOW, that I didn't THEN
10. I appreciate the law and I respect it. In my younger years, I was always fearful of getting in trouble. I didn't really do much that warranted this fear other than speeding. Now I appreciate it when I see a police officer driving thru my neighborhood or several of them having a meal at a local restaurant. It gives me peace of mind.
9. I appreciate the look of a nicely manicured lawn. I secretly wish we had an HOA because I think I could win that award every once in awhile and because that guy a few streets down would NOT be able to have all of that crap in his yard.
8. I appreciate the news. Not because I used to work in TV, but because I actually enjoy knowing what is going on in the world (unless its a story about an animal being hurt, and in that case, i don't want to know)
7. I appreciate low gas prices. My parents used to always play a little game in the car where they'd teach me to point out low gas prices...I still don't know how they made that fun, but it was...and I play that game every day!
6. I appreciate coffee. I used to love waking up to the smell of it but I never liked the taste of it. I never drank coffee until I started working and experienced such a thing as an 8am sales meeting. Now I have coffee everymorning.
5. I appreciate photos. When I was younger, even in college, I always wanted to be IN the photos but I never took any. Because of this, I have very few photos of my college years as my mom wasn't there to take them and I didn't shell out the $5 for every party time sorority photo.
4. I appreciate the wisdom of others. Now, more than ever, I wish I could sit down with each of my grandparents and talk candidly with them about everything under the sun. Most of those questions start with, "How did you handle, how did you get thru, how did you know?"
3. I appreciate my education. I think the 4 years (okay 5) of college allowed me time and room to grow. I respect anyone who started working straight out of high school because there is no way I would've had the discipline to be a good employee. I learned so much about life and who I wanted to be. Most of what I learned from college wasn't in the classroom.
2. I appreciate good food and fine wine. I remember the days when we would eat anything if it was free and drink anything if it was alcohol (seriously, natty light? what were we thinking?) I don't always spring for the "good" wine but I definitely have a preference for what I like and I won't just drink anything I find. And now that I enjoy cooking so much, I appreciate it any time we go out to eat and I know that someone worked hard to put that food on my plate.
And the number one thing I appreciate NOW, that I didn't THEN
1. I appreciate a budget and a sound financial mind. So many of my friends do not make smart choices when it comes to their finances. I hate to see/hear that and I wish I could help but financial stability will only develop when you're ready to be disciplined. Current BF could write a book on financial responsibility and I'm lucky enough to be in a situation where he's able to rub off on me. Don't get me wrong, I'm not rich at all but if you ever need pointers on where to pinch and save, I've got a ton!
Now I don't consider myself to be old by any means...BUT...I have noticed that I am older and with that age/time, has come the appreciation for different things.
So here, my friends, is a top 10 list for you.
Top 10 Things I appreciate NOW, that I didn't THEN
10. I appreciate the law and I respect it. In my younger years, I was always fearful of getting in trouble. I didn't really do much that warranted this fear other than speeding. Now I appreciate it when I see a police officer driving thru my neighborhood or several of them having a meal at a local restaurant. It gives me peace of mind.
9. I appreciate the look of a nicely manicured lawn. I secretly wish we had an HOA because I think I could win that award every once in awhile and because that guy a few streets down would NOT be able to have all of that crap in his yard.
8. I appreciate the news. Not because I used to work in TV, but because I actually enjoy knowing what is going on in the world (unless its a story about an animal being hurt, and in that case, i don't want to know)
7. I appreciate low gas prices. My parents used to always play a little game in the car where they'd teach me to point out low gas prices...I still don't know how they made that fun, but it was...and I play that game every day!
6. I appreciate coffee. I used to love waking up to the smell of it but I never liked the taste of it. I never drank coffee until I started working and experienced such a thing as an 8am sales meeting. Now I have coffee everymorning.
5. I appreciate photos. When I was younger, even in college, I always wanted to be IN the photos but I never took any. Because of this, I have very few photos of my college years as my mom wasn't there to take them and I didn't shell out the $5 for every party time sorority photo.
4. I appreciate the wisdom of others. Now, more than ever, I wish I could sit down with each of my grandparents and talk candidly with them about everything under the sun. Most of those questions start with, "How did you handle, how did you get thru, how did you know?"
3. I appreciate my education. I think the 4 years (okay 5) of college allowed me time and room to grow. I respect anyone who started working straight out of high school because there is no way I would've had the discipline to be a good employee. I learned so much about life and who I wanted to be. Most of what I learned from college wasn't in the classroom.
2. I appreciate good food and fine wine. I remember the days when we would eat anything if it was free and drink anything if it was alcohol (seriously, natty light? what were we thinking?) I don't always spring for the "good" wine but I definitely have a preference for what I like and I won't just drink anything I find. And now that I enjoy cooking so much, I appreciate it any time we go out to eat and I know that someone worked hard to put that food on my plate.
And the number one thing I appreciate NOW, that I didn't THEN
1. I appreciate a budget and a sound financial mind. So many of my friends do not make smart choices when it comes to their finances. I hate to see/hear that and I wish I could help but financial stability will only develop when you're ready to be disciplined. Current BF could write a book on financial responsibility and I'm lucky enough to be in a situation where he's able to rub off on me. Don't get me wrong, I'm not rich at all but if you ever need pointers on where to pinch and save, I've got a ton!
Monday, August 25, 2008
Me llamo Mary.
I've taken 8 years of spanish. From middle school up thru high school. All of that studying and basically I can ask for directions or locations of certain places and I can understand other peoples conversations but not necessarily reply. Oh, and I can understand when people are cursing at me. I received this in an email today from my mom and just about died laughing. I hope you do too. (well..not die, of course, just laugh) Happy Monday!
Monday, August 18, 2008
You Are Good
This is a shameless plug for an INCREDIBLE program called You Are Good. Check out how adorable these tees are...AND...they support an incredible cause.
From the website:
"You Are Good is an inspirational t-shirt company created to highlight the needs of abused children and the agencies that work tirelessly to make their lives better. This clothing is meant to empower each one of us."
Basically, here's what happens. You buy one of their adorable tees, tanks or thermals with your choice of wings on the back. A portion of every shirt sold goes to benefit children in the CASA program.
And the best part, you can also buy a tee to be delivered to a child in need.
Every tee comes with the following tag:
Please take a minute and check out their website at www.youaregoodtees.com and support this incredible cause. Buy one for yourself or for a friend....they make GREAT baby shower gifts!
From the website:
"You Are Good is an inspirational t-shirt company created to highlight the needs of abused children and the agencies that work tirelessly to make their lives better. This clothing is meant to empower each one of us."
Basically, here's what happens. You buy one of their adorable tees, tanks or thermals with your choice of wings on the back. A portion of every shirt sold goes to benefit children in the CASA program.
And the best part, you can also buy a tee to be delivered to a child in need.
Every tee comes with the following tag:
Please take a minute and check out their website at www.youaregoodtees.com and support this incredible cause. Buy one for yourself or for a friend....they make GREAT baby shower gifts!
Friday, August 8, 2008
Blog Pimp!
Ok, so there's this fantastic new blog from a fantastic person I know and I think it's hilarious!
Are you married or planning a wedding? Have some frustrations you'd like to vent about or some funny/not so funny stories to tell? Visit BitchingBrides blog and share your stories!
And while I'm at it, pimp YOUR blog on my comment list!
Are you married or planning a wedding? Have some frustrations you'd like to vent about or some funny/not so funny stories to tell? Visit BitchingBrides blog and share your stories!
And while I'm at it, pimp YOUR blog on my comment list!
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Opening Ceremonies - Get Excited!!
I am such a fan of the Olympics! I remember watching the Olympics with my parents as a kiddo (of course, I was a sport snob and only watched diving and gymnastics) and I loved the opening and closing ceremonies.
Well 8.8.08 is upon us and I'm super excited. Random Trivia: Did you know that 8 is an extremely lucky # in China?
To copy the idea of my friend Lincee, here are some videos to get you in the mood. (these are different videos than hers...check them all out and get excited!)
Amazing Awaits....
U-S-A U-S-A U-S-A
Well 8.8.08 is upon us and I'm super excited. Random Trivia: Did you know that 8 is an extremely lucky # in China?
To copy the idea of my friend Lincee, here are some videos to get you in the mood. (these are different videos than hers...check them all out and get excited!)
Amazing Awaits....
U-S-A U-S-A U-S-A
Friday, July 18, 2008
To Re-Gift is to Receive
I've always been a fan of giving in every sense of the word. I've been described as a giving person and I love that....mostly I'm giving my time, my heart, my ear or my shoulder...but occasionally I get to give material things. I love all of these types of "giving"....the non-material (i'm sure there's an actual word for that but I don't know it) and the material.
The Non because I hate being alone unless I've had a terrible day and giving of myself always involves being around other people. The Material because I love to see people smile....I think long and hard about the gifts that I wrap up with a bow, convinced by the time the wrapping is complete that it is the most perfect gift for the recipient and I give myself an A+. (and i usually do a darn cute wrapping job.)
And of these material gifts, my all-time favorite is the Re-Gift.
Now most people frown upon re-gifting or hand-me-downs but that feeling is WRONG people! If you can give someone something that they absolutely love and you absolutely could do without, it is a WIN-WIN situation!!
Last night I had some girlfrieds over for pokeno. (It's a bunco group and we switched games because this one didn't require mathematical skills while drinking wine) We immediately judged everyones wrapping jobs by which gift bag was the cutest (mine...SNAP!), which was not (deemed "ugly bag"), which was the biggest (super cute purse) and which was the most creative (foil wrapped freebirds g.c.). It was so much fun to re-gift the wrapping and to know that with these girls, you can bring a re-gifted gift and no one cares. We are all so different that SOMEONE is going to think your trash is a treasure. It's like buying without paying...and without going to jail for it!
So Ladies, I must suggest that you do a pokeno night or some sort of gift exchange on a regular basis.
I attempted to host a "sip n swap" at the changing of the season where everyone brings clothes that are somewhat new but either cant wear or won't be worn for whatever reason and we all trade...while drinking wine, of coures. (Are you noticing a pattern? Yeah, me too, thank goodness I'm off the meds and can reclaim my title of wine-o).
Until next time, Cheers!
The Non because I hate being alone unless I've had a terrible day and giving of myself always involves being around other people. The Material because I love to see people smile....I think long and hard about the gifts that I wrap up with a bow, convinced by the time the wrapping is complete that it is the most perfect gift for the recipient and I give myself an A+. (and i usually do a darn cute wrapping job.)
And of these material gifts, my all-time favorite is the Re-Gift.
Now most people frown upon re-gifting or hand-me-downs but that feeling is WRONG people! If you can give someone something that they absolutely love and you absolutely could do without, it is a WIN-WIN situation!!
Last night I had some girlfrieds over for pokeno. (It's a bunco group and we switched games because this one didn't require mathematical skills while drinking wine) We immediately judged everyones wrapping jobs by which gift bag was the cutest (mine...SNAP!), which was not (deemed "ugly bag"), which was the biggest (super cute purse) and which was the most creative (foil wrapped freebirds g.c.). It was so much fun to re-gift the wrapping and to know that with these girls, you can bring a re-gifted gift and no one cares. We are all so different that SOMEONE is going to think your trash is a treasure. It's like buying without paying...and without going to jail for it!
So Ladies, I must suggest that you do a pokeno night or some sort of gift exchange on a regular basis.
I attempted to host a "sip n swap" at the changing of the season where everyone brings clothes that are somewhat new but either cant wear or won't be worn for whatever reason and we all trade...while drinking wine, of coures. (Are you noticing a pattern? Yeah, me too, thank goodness I'm off the meds and can reclaim my title of wine-o).
Until next time, Cheers!
I got boxes!!
I finally received my "military packs" which are boxes that the USPS provides at no cost for anyone sending packages to troops, can we say hell yeah!?! Rock on USPS!
So this weekend will be my first shipment, I'm oh-so-excited! I'm hoping I'll get a little more participation from some of you kiddos so please email me if you'd like to help. And for anyone who travels, send me your hotel shampoos/soaps/etc!!!
I'll keep ya posted on the progress! Have a great weekend!
So this weekend will be my first shipment, I'm oh-so-excited! I'm hoping I'll get a little more participation from some of you kiddos so please email me if you'd like to help. And for anyone who travels, send me your hotel shampoos/soaps/etc!!!
I'll keep ya posted on the progress! Have a great weekend!
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Great News and an Update on Call to Action for our troops
For those who are new to this site and want to help, you can see my original post about sending packages to troops by clicking here or email me
Many thanks to my friend, Lincee, for pimping out my efforts on her blog. And thanks to my friend Allison for finally providing me a way to get the soldier information I've been looking for!
I appreciate all of the well wishes, tid bits of information, and applause I've gotten so far.
What I need now is your help!
This weekend, my beautiful Mom ransacked thru her house to help me in this giving mission. It was so easy to find stuff to send to troops. If everyone took 2-3 minutes in each room of your home, I guarantee you'll find something new or gently used to donate.
Here are things we found: (see the full Call to Action for a complete list)
paperback books, local newspapers, magazines, travel size toiletries from hotels, crystal light on the go packs, batteries, gum, stationery, blank cards, water guns, stuffed animals (for troops to give to children there).
I forgot to mention before that I'm in the Dallas area. Even if you're across the country, please email me if you'd like to help, I can get you the supplies you need to ship your stuff and a soldier to send them to...you can help me remotely!!!
Many thanks to my friend, Lincee, for pimping out my efforts on her blog. And thanks to my friend Allison for finally providing me a way to get the soldier information I've been looking for!
I appreciate all of the well wishes, tid bits of information, and applause I've gotten so far.
What I need now is your help!
This weekend, my beautiful Mom ransacked thru her house to help me in this giving mission. It was so easy to find stuff to send to troops. If everyone took 2-3 minutes in each room of your home, I guarantee you'll find something new or gently used to donate.
Here are things we found: (see the full Call to Action for a complete list)
paperback books, local newspapers, magazines, travel size toiletries from hotels, crystal light on the go packs, batteries, gum, stationery, blank cards, water guns, stuffed animals (for troops to give to children there).
I forgot to mention before that I'm in the Dallas area. Even if you're across the country, please email me if you'd like to help, I can get you the supplies you need to ship your stuff and a soldier to send them to...you can help me remotely!!!
Friday, July 4, 2008
Call to Action: Do more than just watch the fireworks
Ok...this is a challenge to all of you...ready??
Whenever there is a holiday, I always like to take some time to think about what that holiday is really about, not just how we celebrate it. To me, 4th of July is truly a celebration of my freedom...something I often take for granted. In celebration of this holiday, I too will watch fireworks, eat bbq, drink margaritas and wear something red, white or blue. But this year, I want to take it a step further...I want to give back to those who provide me with my freedom.
So starting today, I want to send care packages to our deployed troops. I'm gathering information on the specifics of what can/can't be sent and how exactly I'm to get these items to them.
What I know...for food, they request as much individually wrapped items as possible or durable things...(i.e. pringles cans instead of bags of chips), and non perishable items as it may take 2-4 weeks to get there and go thru several locations, temperatures and handling methods.
Here is a list of items wanted:
DVDs, CDs, Batteries (all sizes)
Computer Flash Drives
Headsets (earpiece and microphone)
Beanie Babies (what??), Small Novelty Items
Disposable Cameras
Prepaid Phone Cards
Travel-Size Board Games, Handheld electronic games
Bandana Coolers/Cool-Ties*, Mini-Battery-operated Fans
Hand and Foot Warmers
Commercially wrapped individual packets of Trail Mix, Beef Jerky, Nuts, Energy Bars, Sunflower Seeds, Candy (Halloween Candy is great!!)
Ready To Eat Tuna or Chicken Salad kits
Boxes of Girl Scout Cookies; Small tins of Danish Cookies
Packets of Powdered Cold Beverages (the type that you just add water to and individually wrapped is preferred...i.e. crystal light singles, etc)
Commercially sealed Lip Balm, roll-on deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes
Individual packets of moist towelettes
Travel Size containers of Foot Powder
Screen Printed T-Shirts, Socks
Baseball Style Caps, Knit Hats and Gloves; Neck Gators*
Holiday Greeting Cards (blank)
Tobacco Products
Unsealed personal cards and letters
Used Cell Phones, Video Games and Systems, IPODs, PDAs, Ink-jet Cartridges
For a more personal touch,
~Send a personal note or have your children write a letter, draw a picture, etc.
~ Send silly toys – water guns, handheld travel games, a book of jokes, magic tricks, etc. Anything to let him take a break. If you send water guns or something similar, be sure to send multiples, it’s no fun to play alone.
~Instead of packing supplies, I'm going to use recent newspapers, send me your old ones so I have a variety!
~Send magazines or a book
*I know these are a lot of items and some can be expensive..so see my other post on how to Make your own Cool Ties Or...if you make the fabric and I'll do the rest!
Thank you in advance to anyone and everyone for your help!! If you need to send items or want to send money towards the purchase of items, please email me theflipsideofthepillow at gmail dot com
Whenever there is a holiday, I always like to take some time to think about what that holiday is really about, not just how we celebrate it. To me, 4th of July is truly a celebration of my freedom...something I often take for granted. In celebration of this holiday, I too will watch fireworks, eat bbq, drink margaritas and wear something red, white or blue. But this year, I want to take it a step further...I want to give back to those who provide me with my freedom.
So starting today, I want to send care packages to our deployed troops. I'm gathering information on the specifics of what can/can't be sent and how exactly I'm to get these items to them.
What I know...for food, they request as much individually wrapped items as possible or durable things...(i.e. pringles cans instead of bags of chips), and non perishable items as it may take 2-4 weeks to get there and go thru several locations, temperatures and handling methods.
Here is a list of items wanted:
DVDs, CDs, Batteries (all sizes)
Computer Flash Drives
Headsets (earpiece and microphone)
Beanie Babies (what??), Small Novelty Items
Disposable Cameras
Prepaid Phone Cards
Travel-Size Board Games, Handheld electronic games
Bandana Coolers/Cool-Ties*, Mini-Battery-operated Fans
Hand and Foot Warmers
Commercially wrapped individual packets of Trail Mix, Beef Jerky, Nuts, Energy Bars, Sunflower Seeds, Candy (Halloween Candy is great!!)
Ready To Eat Tuna or Chicken Salad kits
Boxes of Girl Scout Cookies; Small tins of Danish Cookies
Packets of Powdered Cold Beverages (the type that you just add water to and individually wrapped is preferred...i.e. crystal light singles, etc)
Commercially sealed Lip Balm, roll-on deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes
Individual packets of moist towelettes
Travel Size containers of Foot Powder
Screen Printed T-Shirts, Socks
Baseball Style Caps, Knit Hats and Gloves; Neck Gators*
Holiday Greeting Cards (blank)
Tobacco Products
Unsealed personal cards and letters
Used Cell Phones, Video Games and Systems, IPODs, PDAs, Ink-jet Cartridges
For a more personal touch,
~Send a personal note or have your children write a letter, draw a picture, etc.
~ Send silly toys – water guns, handheld travel games, a book of jokes, magic tricks, etc. Anything to let him take a break. If you send water guns or something similar, be sure to send multiples, it’s no fun to play alone.
~Instead of packing supplies, I'm going to use recent newspapers, send me your old ones so I have a variety!
~Send magazines or a book
*I know these are a lot of items and some can be expensive..so see my other post on how to Make your own Cool Ties Or...if you make the fabric and I'll do the rest!
Thank you in advance to anyone and everyone for your help!! If you need to send items or want to send money towards the purchase of items, please email me theflipsideofthepillow at gmail dot com
How to make a Cool Tie
update: i had a "crazy" read this post....check it out here
This is for your own summer survival or if you'd like to join me in my Call To Action and help me send care packages to our troops.
How To Make A Cool Tie
Materials and Supplies:
1/4 yard 45-inch wide lightweight 100% cotton fabric Please use tan, brown, desert camouflage or other neutral colored cotton or material.
2 teaspoons Watersorb-brand polymer granules (to order Watersorb-brand polymer granules visit Watersorb.com's Cool Ties page)
thread
sewing machine
pins
scissors or rotary cutter
bamboo or plastic point turner
Instructions:
1. Cut cut a 7"-by-45" rectangle from fabric. For simplest cutting, fold fabric crosswise and use a rotary cutter. (Note: you can make five cool ties from one yard of 45" fabric.)
2. Fold fabric strip in half lengthwise, right sides together. To form pointed end, cut a 45-degree triangle from each folded end. Cut back from the fold toward the edges.
3. Locate the lengthwise center of the folded strip. Place 2 pins 1 1/2 inches on each side of the center of the strip. The pins mark the area to be left open to reverse the tie. Sew from point to center on each side, with a 5/8th inch seam allowance. Leave the area between the pins open.
4. Using scissors, carefully notch seam allowance next to the tie point.
5. Measure 10 inches up from each pointed end, mark location with a pin. On each side, sew directly across the tie from end to end, backstitching at the beginning and end of the stitching line. This stitching creates a pocket for the garden polymer granules.
6. Insert 2 teaspoons Watersorb-brand polymer granules into center of the tie through the opening in the seam.
7. Stitching close to the folded edges, sew the opening closed.
This is for your own summer survival or if you'd like to join me in my Call To Action and help me send care packages to our troops.
How To Make A Cool Tie
Materials and Supplies:
1/4 yard 45-inch wide lightweight 100% cotton fabric Please use tan, brown, desert camouflage or other neutral colored cotton or material.
2 teaspoons Watersorb-brand polymer granules (to order Watersorb-brand polymer granules visit Watersorb.com's Cool Ties page)
thread
sewing machine
pins
scissors or rotary cutter
bamboo or plastic point turner
Instructions:
1. Cut cut a 7"-by-45" rectangle from fabric. For simplest cutting, fold fabric crosswise and use a rotary cutter. (Note: you can make five cool ties from one yard of 45" fabric.)
2. Fold fabric strip in half lengthwise, right sides together. To form pointed end, cut a 45-degree triangle from each folded end. Cut back from the fold toward the edges.
3. Locate the lengthwise center of the folded strip. Place 2 pins 1 1/2 inches on each side of the center of the strip. The pins mark the area to be left open to reverse the tie. Sew from point to center on each side, with a 5/8th inch seam allowance. Leave the area between the pins open.
4. Using scissors, carefully notch seam allowance next to the tie point.
5. Measure 10 inches up from each pointed end, mark location with a pin. On each side, sew directly across the tie from end to end, backstitching at the beginning and end of the stitching line. This stitching creates a pocket for the garden polymer granules.
6. Insert 2 teaspoons Watersorb-brand polymer granules into center of the tie through the opening in the seam.
7. Stitching close to the folded edges, sew the opening closed.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
escape
I've never been in a place in my life where I didn't have a place to escape. That one place where you go when you want to breathe or not breathe, where you want to think or not think, and a place where even if only for ten minutes...you feel like no one can find you and where you find yourself.
I can measure my life up to this point in terms of where my escape was. Growing up it was generally someplace outside and near my house. In college it was often my hammock that I worked so hard to buy, a certain swingset on the outside of town, or my favorite park bench in my favorite park. Since graduation, my escape has changed so many times as I've moved regularly. Since this latest move, I realized that I'm in need of a new place to escape and I don't have one.
Sometimes I consider this blog to be an escape, mainly because I don't think anyone reads it (other than my mom and my BFF).
So until I find my escape....this one will have to do:
Here's hoping that when you need to make sense of it all, you find your escape.
I can measure my life up to this point in terms of where my escape was. Growing up it was generally someplace outside and near my house. In college it was often my hammock that I worked so hard to buy, a certain swingset on the outside of town, or my favorite park bench in my favorite park. Since graduation, my escape has changed so many times as I've moved regularly. Since this latest move, I realized that I'm in need of a new place to escape and I don't have one.
Sometimes I consider this blog to be an escape, mainly because I don't think anyone reads it (other than my mom and my BFF).
So until I find my escape....this one will have to do:
Here's hoping that when you need to make sense of it all, you find your escape.
I know who the final two are in The Bachelorette!
If you want to know....leave me a comment or email me and I'll send you proof!
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Next Post
Have you ever been so bored that you think you might have actually found the end of the internet?
Fear not! I've found yet another way to waste your time that might be enjoyable...the Next Post feature on blogspot.
If you're ever on a fantastic blog such as the one you're reading now, there is a link at the top of the page that says "Next Blog" This feature always provides new blog neighbors which is great, you'll never hit the same "next" blog twice!
I found some really interesting blogs (and some scary ones) when I visited the blogs "next" to mine.
It is an interesting way to pass the time and sometimes I feel like I'm a peeping tom but hey, I welcome the visits to my humble little blog so I'm thinking they will too.
Happy Nexting!
Fear not! I've found yet another way to waste your time that might be enjoyable...the Next Post feature on blogspot.
If you're ever on a fantastic blog such as the one you're reading now, there is a link at the top of the page that says "Next Blog" This feature always provides new blog neighbors which is great, you'll never hit the same "next" blog twice!
I found some really interesting blogs (and some scary ones) when I visited the blogs "next" to mine.
It is an interesting way to pass the time and sometimes I feel like I'm a peeping tom but hey, I welcome the visits to my humble little blog so I'm thinking they will too.
Happy Nexting!
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