(Ends 1/13/14) · The Penny Hoarder
ENTER HERE Open to 18+ in US Only
#Win one of three gift cards to Amazon!
Three winners - one $150 GC and two $25 GCs.
Thanks to The Penny Hoarder and Motif Investing
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Ends 01/13 - We're Giving Away $200 in Amazon Gift Cards! - Open US Only 18+
We're Giving Away $200 in Amazon Gift Cards!
(Ends 1/13/14) · The Penny Hoarder
ENTER HERE Open to 18+ in US Only
#Win one of three gift cards to Amazon!
Three winners - one $150 GC and two $25 GCs.
Thanks to The Penny Hoarder and Motif Investing
(Ends 1/13/14) · The Penny Hoarder
ENTER HERE Open to 18+ in US Only
#Win one of three gift cards to Amazon!
Three winners - one $150 GC and two $25 GCs.
Thanks to The Penny Hoarder and Motif Investing
Friday, December 27, 2013
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Ends 12/25 - #Win 1 of 3 SKYPADs!
Skytex
ENTER HERE
Three winners in all. One person will win Skypad 7, runner up will win Skypad 10. One random winner will be selected to win a SKYPAD 705. It runs on Android 4.1 OS with thousands of free apps!
ENTER HERE
Three winners in all. One person will win Skypad 7, runner up will win Skypad 10. One random winner will be selected to win a SKYPAD 705. It runs on Android 4.1 OS with thousands of free apps!
Ends 01/03 - Google Glass Review and Giveaway
Google Glass Review and Giveaway
Appears to be open world wide, 18+, except where prohibited by law.
ENTER HERE Ends Jan 3rd, 2014
Appears to be open world wide, 18+, except where prohibited by law.
ENTER HERE Ends Jan 3rd, 2014
Friday, December 6, 2013
$250 Winner Picks It Gift Card Giveaway (ww) - Barefoot in Bluejeans
$250 Winner Picks It Gift Card Giveaway (ww) - Barefoot in Bluejeans
ENTER HERE
ENTER HERE
One lucky person will win a gift card of their choice valued at $250! That’s right Walmart, Target, Amazon, Visa, we don’t care you win it you pick it!
Giveaway will begin on 11/08/2013 at 12:01am EST and end on 12/10/2013 at 11:59pm EST. OPEN WORLDWIDE, and you must use the Giveaway Tool widget below to enter. Good Luck Everyone!
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Friday, November 29, 2013
Enter to #WIN iPad Air from Fashion Mix! Ends 12/30/13
Enter To #WIN Apple iPad Air or one of five other prizes! Ends 12/30/13.
Single Entry through Facebook page for your chance to #win ONE OF SIX PRZES!
ENTER AT : http://goo.gl/0yH9h9
First Prize:
Apple iPad Air (white)
Second Prize:
2 $100 dollar gift certificates
1 $100 gift card to Victoria Secret
1 $100 gift card to Nordstrom.
Third Prize:
3 $50 Gift Certificates for Amazon.com
Sunday, November 24, 2013
November Kindle Fire HDX Giveaways
This is a joint AUTHOR & BLOGGER GIVEAWAY EVENT!
Bloggers & Authors have joined together and each chipped in a little money towards a Kindle Fire HDX 7".
All New Kindle Fire HDX 7" Giveaway
The winner will have the option of receiving a 7" Kindle Fire HDX (US Only - $229 Value)
- I Am A Reader, Not A Writer
- Feed Your Reader
- Ripple Effect Romance Series
- Dark Motive's Books & More
- Fae Books
- Author Marianne Morea
- Buku-Buku Didi
- Author Camelia Miron Skiba
- Author Stacy Claflin
- Patchwork Press
- Author Louise Caiola
- Author Bella Street
- Author Bonnie Blythe
- Author Julia Crane
- The (Mis)Adventures of a Twenty-Something Year Old Girl
- Author Kim Cresswell
- A Bookish Escape
- Author Talia Jager
- Mother Daughter Book Reviews
- Fiction Dreams
- Book Angel Booktopia
- Kelly's Lucky You
- Author Roxanne Crouse
- Author Rachelle Christensen
- Author Jennifer Laurens
- Hardback Book Hotties
- Lori's Reading Corner
- Author Misty Moncur
- MyLadyWeb: Women's History and Women Authors
- Author Elizabeth Isaacs
- Living, Learning and Loving Life
- Fairiechick's Fantasy Book Reader
- My Story That I Like Best
- LeahSay's Views
- Christine's Blog
- Candle Light Reads
- NESSAROX
- The Demon Librarian
- SMIBookClub
- Author T.L. Clarke
- Back Off My Books
- Michael SciFan
- Author Carole Brown
- Coffee and Characters
- No Thought 2 Small
- Stanley and Katrina, Pet Authors
- Reviews by Martha's Bookshelf
- Love Bites & Silk
- Kimber Leigh Writes
- Author Rae Z. Ryans
- Author Georgina Young-Ellis
- The Reporter and the Girl
- Fic Central
- Like a Broken Vessel
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Win a Halfway to Bonnaroo Prize Package including 2 passes to next year’s Bonnaroo : Contests : Relix
Bonnaroo is a four day outdoor Music & Arts Festival located on a 700-acre farm in Tennessee. They have many options for accommodations - from camping, glamping, tour bus rentals with your friends, to hotels - and levels of access. Music from every genre is represented, breweries from all over the US, food trucks, air conditioned movie tent, comedy shows, art shows and more. Win a Halfway to Bonnaroo Prize Package including 2 passes to next year’s Bonnaroo : Contests : Relix
I found out about this too late to go in 2013 but I really hope to go in 2014. Last year performers included Paul McCartney, Billy Idol and ZZ Top - just a few out of over 100. I just found this contest to win 2 general admission passes good all four days in 2014. I am not affiliated with Relix or Bonnaroo in any manner, I just want to win the tickets myself!
And if you don't win, or don't want to take a chance, they are offering payment plans for a short time. You can get general admission and VIP tickets spread out over 5 monthly payments. But you have to sign up for them by Dec 31st. Ticket sales open Dec 2nd.
Contest Information:
Relix and Bonnaroo are giving away a Bonnaroo prize pack!
Bonnaroo can't come soon enough so Bonnaroo and Relix are celebrating the half way mark to 2014's Roo by giving one lucky fan:
2 General Admission tickets to Bonnaroo 2014
2 full sets of 2013's Bonnaroo Beacon
A personal message in 2014's Bonnaroo Beacon
2 full sets of 2013's Bonnaroo Beacon
A personal message in 2014's Bonnaroo Beacon
LINK TO ENTER: Win a Halfway to Bonnaroo Prize Package including 2 passes to next year’s Bonnaroo : Contests : Relix
More Information Available:
Wiki on Bonnaroo
Bonnaroo on Facebook
http://www.bonnaroo.com/
Bonnaroo on You Tube
Friday, November 22, 2013
Have you tried the new DualTemp layer from Sleep Number? Check out my review
Have you heard of the new DualTemp layer from Sleep Number?
I received compensation in exchange for an honest review of my experience testing this product.
Do you ever have a problem sleeping due to being too hot or too cold - especially when your partner might be the opposite? I know that Hubby and I have problems getting comfortable some nights. It never fails that Hubby either steals all the covers because he is cold or piles them on me because he is too hot! I've also woken up sweating in the middle of the night because an extra blanket miraculously appeared on the bed overnight.
I was very interested to receive a chance from Smiley360 to experience the new DualTemp balancing layer from the folks at Sleep Number. This breathable comfort layer softly cushions every curve and can be added to any mattress. The ActiveAir technology evenly distributes temperature for head-to-toe comfort, which is easily changed from cool to warm with the touch of a button.
My first impression was soft. For some reason I expected the layer to feel similar to a heating blanket. I was pleasantly surprised that I couldn't feel any wires or tubes in the DualTemp layer or hear any noise from the control boxes. The store display is set with one cold and one warm side. At the time of testing, I was wearing medium weight sweater and slacks and elected to start on the cool side. In just a few minutes I could feel the coolness radiating under me. I must admit to really liking the cool side. When I moved to the heat side, I could feel warmth as soon as I peeled back the duvet cover. It seeped through my clothes almost immediately.
I was very impressed by my experience. I have already planned on bringing Hubby back to the store to let him try this DualTemp layer. While I have a pinched sciatic nerve and scar tissue on my spine from back surgery, Hubby has diabetic neuropathy in his arms and legs. I can definitely see the DualTop layer making a positive impact on our sleep.
And for those of you interested, my sales rep let me know that they are currently offering special financing of four years no interest.
Find more information here:
http://smiley360.com/2489525.cfm
SLEEP NUMBER® DualTemp(TM) Layer
http://www.sleepnumber.com/eng/sleepnumber/dualtemp.cfm
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Review of StarKist Tuna Creations Ranch Flavor- Go #TeamTuna
First: I was not given any financial compensation for providing my review. I received only a free single serving sample of StarKist Tuna Creations Ranch Flavor (and a coupon). All opinions stated are honestly mine (and Hubby's).
Let me start by saying that my StarKist Tuna Creations Ranch Flavor sample was delivered via USPS and was enclosed in a manila envelope. In other words, it was squashed flatter than a pancake! So, visually speaking, I would expect the contents in store bought packages to look different.
The package appears to be reinforced paper and was undamaged upon receipt, leading me to believe it is fairly resistant to random pokes and prods. It was very easy for me to tear open at the provided notch without resorting to a knife or scissors. This would probably survive a stay in my pantry and most likely only come out being slightly squished.
After opening, I took a cautious peek and sniff. From a visual perspective, it was highly disappointing and made me regret planning on using the StarKist Tuna Creations to top our salads. Aromatically I was very glad that there was no unpleasant fish odor to it - even upon taking a second, and deeper, breath. I only noted a small hint of something other than just tuna fish. I double checked the ingredient list and did see that the ingredients included vinegar, sugar, onion powder, garlic powder and spices. Somehow I had imagined the Ranch Tuna Creations having more of a ranch scent right out of the package, similar to potato chip seasoning. Hubby was enlisted in the test and he found it smelled like tuna fish.
I prepared regular salad to place the Tuna Creations on, and tried to flake the tuna out of the pouch and straight onto the salad. When that didn't look appealing, I tried to "fluff" the tuna already in the salad and had no luck. I ended up removing the larger pieces from the salad and "fluffing" them up on the cutting board before returning it to the bowl. The other half of the sample I immediately dumped on the cutting board to be "fluffed" before putting in the salad. Doing this certainly improved the visual appeal.
The taste was just okay. While there was a hint of other flavors, it was very easy to overpower the Ranch Tuna Creation with salad dressing, sharp cheese or any fragrant vegetable. Hubby will eat almost anything, but half way through he told me he was finished.
For us, this was a bust. Hubby believes that the Ranch Tuna Creations would be edible if mixed with mayo and relish and served as a sandwich. I think you could probably eat it out of the package if you had crackers or rolled some up in a lettuce leaf, but anything else would just overpower it. I really prefer my tuna to be flaked or chunky and will admit some dislike of the Tuna Creations comes from being reminded of anchovy paste. It was a nice idea, but Hubby and I will keep buying our StarKist Tuna in cans.
Let me start by saying that my StarKist Tuna Creations Ranch Flavor sample was delivered via USPS and was enclosed in a manila envelope. In other words, it was squashed flatter than a pancake! So, visually speaking, I would expect the contents in store bought packages to look different.
The package appears to be reinforced paper and was undamaged upon receipt, leading me to believe it is fairly resistant to random pokes and prods. It was very easy for me to tear open at the provided notch without resorting to a knife or scissors. This would probably survive a stay in my pantry and most likely only come out being slightly squished.
I prepared regular salad to place the Tuna Creations on, and tried to flake the tuna out of the pouch and straight onto the salad. When that didn't look appealing, I tried to "fluff" the tuna already in the salad and had no luck. I ended up removing the larger pieces from the salad and "fluffing" them up on the cutting board before returning it to the bowl. The other half of the sample I immediately dumped on the cutting board to be "fluffed" before putting in the salad. Doing this certainly improved the visual appeal.
The taste was just okay. While there was a hint of other flavors, it was very easy to overpower the Ranch Tuna Creation with salad dressing, sharp cheese or any fragrant vegetable. Hubby will eat almost anything, but half way through he told me he was finished.
For us, this was a bust. Hubby believes that the Ranch Tuna Creations would be edible if mixed with mayo and relish and served as a sandwich. I think you could probably eat it out of the package if you had crackers or rolled some up in a lettuce leaf, but anything else would just overpower it. I really prefer my tuna to be flaked or chunky and will admit some dislike of the Tuna Creations comes from being reminded of anchovy paste. It was a nice idea, but Hubby and I will keep buying our StarKist Tuna in cans.
Saturday, November 2, 2013
Making the Truvia Natural Sweetener #SweetSwitch
First: I was not provided any financial compensation for providing my review. I received only free samples of the Truvia and all opinions stated are honestly mine (and Hubby's).Hubby and I took part in the Truvia Natural Sweetener #SweetSwitch challenge. Hubby is diabetic and uses artificial sweeteners as part of his diet. He loves his coffee and especially likes drinking the first morning cup light and sweet. I am not a coffee drinker but I do like a nice cup of hot herbal tea. When I want to indulge, I add some honey (or sugar) to my tea.
The very first thing we noticed when we opened the Truvia packet was its appearance - it looked like real sugar! We are used to artificial sweeteners looking powdery. Because of the appearance, I was actually bold enough to taste some straight from the packet. To my surprise, the Truvia just tasted sweet! There was no bitter taste or aftertaste to it.
I added one packet to Hubby's coffee. Normally he takes one and a half packets of the blue stuff. I didn't want to add more than one at first as I had heard that Truvia was sweeter than sugar. I asked Hubby to try it with only one packet and said we could add more if needed. After cautiously sipping, he said his coffee tasted fine. He didn't notice any unpleasant odor or smell.
I used Truvia in some herbal tea. It didn't change the taste of my tea at all, just made it sweeter. I was very happy sipping it.
After this test, I can honestly say that Hubby and I will be adding Truvia to our grocery list!
Are you ready to make the Truvia Natural Sweetener #SweetSwitch yet?
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Mami's 3 Little Monkeys: Dehydrate It Right ($170ARV) Giveaway US 8/29
Mami's 3 Little Monkeys: Dehydrate It Right ($170ARV) Giveaway US 8/29
Great item, enter for your chance to win!
Great item, enter for your chance to win!
Monday, July 1, 2013
PLEASE SIGN AND SHARE - Don't Let the EPA Allow More Chemicals on Your Veggies! - Food & Water Watch
Don't Let the EPA Allow More Chemicals on Your Veggies! - Food & Water Watch
Do you ever eat carrots, sweet potatoes, flax or sunflower seeds?
Most of us think of these foods as a nutritious part of our diet, providing us with the vitamins we need to stay healthy. But the EPA is considering a rule that would change that, by raising the amount of Roundup chemical residue that's allowed on many vegetables and seeds that we eat every day. Tell the EPA that you don't want to be exposed to more chemicals on your food!
Monsanto's ubiquitous weed killer, Roundup, has been sprayed on farms across America for decades. Now, 14 varieties of Roundup-resistant "superweeds" exist, creating enormous hassle for struggling farmers. To combat the superweeds, Monsanto wants farmers to buy and spray evenmore Roundup on their crops, perpetuating an endless cycle of toxic chemical overuse. To make matters worse, they are pressuring the EPA to change the rules and allow for more chemical residue on the vegetables we eat.
Take action today for your health and the environment:
https://secure3.convio.net/fww/site/Advocacy?pagename=homepage&page=UserAction&id=809
Do you ever eat carrots, sweet potatoes, flax or sunflower seeds?
Most of us think of these foods as a nutritious part of our diet, providing us with the vitamins we need to stay healthy. But the EPA is considering a rule that would change that, by raising the amount of Roundup chemical residue that's allowed on many vegetables and seeds that we eat every day. Tell the EPA that you don't want to be exposed to more chemicals on your food!
Monsanto's ubiquitous weed killer, Roundup, has been sprayed on farms across America for decades. Now, 14 varieties of Roundup-resistant "superweeds" exist, creating enormous hassle for struggling farmers. To combat the superweeds, Monsanto wants farmers to buy and spray evenmore Roundup on their crops, perpetuating an endless cycle of toxic chemical overuse. To make matters worse, they are pressuring the EPA to change the rules and allow for more chemical residue on the vegetables we eat.
Take action today for your health and the environment:
https://secure3.convio.net/
Monday, June 3, 2013
OMG, I'm feeling girlie! Quick! Call someone!
It doesn't happen very often, but once in a while I forgo my tomboy leanings and have an overwhelming urge to be girlie. I don't think there is anything wrong with being girlie, it was just never my thing. When I went to grade school
In the end, my skirt never got flipped. It probably didn't help that I was taller than pretty much my entire grade level. And rather husky. So, maybe they were slightly intimidated.
As I was
[I still can't believe how fashionable this became, all because of the Olympics. Then again, I did live through moon boots, harem pants and Members Only jackets. And Flock of Seagull hair. And Devo heads. And disco. So by now you would think that I wouldn't be so surprised when trends start.]
But the picture that made me
And it didn't matter that instead of
Then I found her "franken" colors. Alice is such a bold minx! The greens weren't my cup of tea, but I loved this royal and copper penny mix (below).
And I found myself exploring the other artists that she was linked through by blog contests. And all of a sudden, this grey gloomy day had some color and shine for me. And even though the Pintester herself wasn't able to do water marbling, the tutorials by ProfessionalDQ and ilovemylongnails made it look easy!
Normally you would find me running away from these bold, neon colors. There is something about the water marbling that reminds me of butterfly wings and somehow the colors become okay to my mind. I absolutely love the combo of these Zoya Beach Collection colors.
I was lucky enough to stumble upon this pic (left) and tutorial from Chelsea Franklin at The Nail Network.
And once my mind got used to the bold marbling, I really appreciated the gradient half moon design done by Felice from S-lacquer (right).
And who doesn't appreciate the beauty in a butterfly wing?
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Sign the Bill of Reproductive Rights - The Petition Site
Sign the Bill of Reproductive Rights - The Petition Site
I empathize with all of our elected officials. This is a very sensitive topic and leads to many hot debates. Everyone has an opinion, whether it is from a scientific or religious viewpoint.
If you are able to step back and remember to separate the church from the state, the topic becomes clearer. Former President Reagan once said, "Government's first duty is to protect the people, not run their lives." Ultimately, reproductive choices are the responsibility of the individual and not something that should be selected by the government.
Those of us who believe in reproductive rights are not asking you to force others to follow our beliefs, decisions or choices. We are simply stating that we believe in a person's sovereign right to make and follow their own beliefs, decisions and choices.
By attempting to limit an individual's reproductive rights, you are electing to deny the rights of a sovereign person in lieu of the rights of a legal non-entity. No matter what scientists, researchers, religious groups and people argue about or agree upon, we must remember that personhood in the United States starts at the moment of birth - not conception.
No one wants to see the return of back alley clinics. Neither do we want people to be forced to cross borders to have medical procedures. Restrictions would see to the reemergence of both.
This quote sums up my beliefs: "I am free because I say I am. My freedom is not dependent on any government benefit or piece of legislation. My rights are inherent in the fact that I was born a sovereign being. They are non negotiable. Government can list and protect them, but my rights are not theirs to give away."
I empathize with all of our elected officials. This is a very sensitive topic and leads to many hot debates. Everyone has an opinion, whether it is from a scientific or religious viewpoint.
If you are able to step back and remember to separate the church from the state, the topic becomes clearer. Former President Reagan once said, "Government's first duty is to protect the people, not run their lives." Ultimately, reproductive choices are the responsibility of the individual and not something that should be selected by the government.
Those of us who believe in reproductive rights are not asking you to force others to follow our beliefs, decisions or choices. We are simply stating that we believe in a person's sovereign right to make and follow their own beliefs, decisions and choices.
By attempting to limit an individual's reproductive rights, you are electing to deny the rights of a sovereign person in lieu of the rights of a legal non-entity. No matter what scientists, researchers, religious groups and people argue about or agree upon, we must remember that personhood in the United States starts at the moment of birth - not conception.
No one wants to see the return of back alley clinics. Neither do we want people to be forced to cross borders to have medical procedures. Restrictions would see to the reemergence of both.
This quote sums up my beliefs: "I am free because I say I am. My freedom is not dependent on any government benefit or piece of legislation. My rights are inherent in the fact that I was born a sovereign being. They are non negotiable. Government can list and protect them, but my rights are not theirs to give away."
Monday, May 6, 2013
Cost of Unlawful Immigrants to the U.S. Taxpayers
Cost of Unlawful Immigrants to the U.S. Taxpayers - by The Heritage Foundation Leadership for America
I don't know if you've seen this story in the FB-verse or not, but something inside me snapped when I read the headline.
It was sent to me by Eye On Freedom, with the tag of: It's official! $6.3 TRILLION! For Amnesty!
I admit, I can empathize with people living here illegally, simply because it has to take a lot for you to uproot yourself from everything you're ever known - your family, friends, country - and gamble that you will find an "honest" coyote or have enough luck to safely get into the US while avoiding border patrols. And you are never safe, even after crossing the border.
But honestly - I feel like we are *rewarding* them for breaking the law. And whether or not you are sympathetic with their plight, in the end these are illegal immigrants, working and living here illegally and not paying income taxes. We jail citizens for income tax evasion and fraud. Why are we offering special perks to illegals? They have already broken the law and continue doing so every day. Why are we offering to treat them better than our own citizens?
Maybe some of this is just too personal for me. My paternal grandmother was first generation American - her family came here from Sicily. My paternal grandfather was second generation. My maternal grands have been in the country since the early 1700s. They all came here legally and I feel they are disrespected by this proposed law. You used to have to work hard and test to become part of this country. On July 4th of every year, the news channels report on the latest group of people being offered citizenship in this country - and rightfully so. These new citizens worked hard to learn the language, to study the history, to understand what it is to be a part of America. They deserve to be acknowledged for their hard work in becoming a new part of America. This amnesty seems like a slap in the face for all of their hard work. America is supposed to be where you work to make something of yourself. It is what you hear in history class. It is what you see in every Mom and Pop shop out there. It is part of the American dream. And while that dream has been tarnished lately, it was still attainable.
You may not realize the impact that illegal aliens have on the American economy. The Heritage Foundation states In 2010, the average unlawful immigrant household received around $24,721 in government benefits and services while paying some $10,334 in taxes. This generated an average annual fiscal deficit (benefits received minus taxes paid) of around $14,387 per household. This cost had to be borne by U.S. taxpayers. Amnesty would provide unlawful households with access to over 80 means-tested welfare programs, Obamacare, Social Security, and Medicare. The fiscal deficit for each household would soar. We are already printing money faster than we earn it. The purchasing power of the US dollar is weak. We are borrowing from foreign nations. We are in a sequestration to cut costs. Monetarily speaking, given the state of our economy is this *really* the best use of our tax dollars?
We already aren't taking care of the legal citizens we have. Between the homeless and families living on less than working wages, our crumbling infrastructure and economy, America is rupturing from the inside. Can't we - FOR ONCE - look to ourselves first? Bring our military home, put them to work with the Army Engineers and build up our roads, streets, bridges. Let them rehab the vacant buildings - and they are in every city - and make them into welfare to work shelters, or homeless shelters, homes for military veterans, or something. These are our tax dollars, shouldn't they support us first? Is our best - and most judicious - use of these taxpayer dollars in allowing amnesty to illegal aliens?
America seems to have lost its pride. Our legal documents are written in multiple languages. Our telephone systems require us to punch a number to select a language. We go to extreme lengths to be politically correct. We still have no nationally recognized language. We allow money to speak in our politics. We went from breaking up (potential) monopolies - remember the breakup of phone service into Mama and the Baby Bells? - to having corporations too large to fail. How much are we expected to do for others before we start looking out for ourselves? When is America supposed to take care of itself first? President Obama hasn't lived up to most of his other campaign promises, so why is the priority set for this one? I believe it is time for our tax dollars to support America and Americans first. It is time that the government of the United States of America prioritizes its support for legal citizens.
I don't know if you've seen this story in the FB-verse or not, but something inside me snapped when I read the headline.
It was sent to me by Eye On Freedom, with the tag of: It's official! $6.3 TRILLION! For Amnesty!
I admit, I can empathize with people living here illegally, simply because it has to take a lot for you to uproot yourself from everything you're ever known - your family, friends, country - and gamble that you will find an "honest" coyote or have enough luck to safely get into the US while avoiding border patrols. And you are never safe, even after crossing the border.
But honestly - I feel like we are *rewarding* them for breaking the law. And whether or not you are sympathetic with their plight, in the end these are illegal immigrants, working and living here illegally and not paying income taxes. We jail citizens for income tax evasion and fraud. Why are we offering special perks to illegals? They have already broken the law and continue doing so every day. Why are we offering to treat them better than our own citizens?
Maybe some of this is just too personal for me. My paternal grandmother was first generation American - her family came here from Sicily. My paternal grandfather was second generation. My maternal grands have been in the country since the early 1700s. They all came here legally and I feel they are disrespected by this proposed law. You used to have to work hard and test to become part of this country. On July 4th of every year, the news channels report on the latest group of people being offered citizenship in this country - and rightfully so. These new citizens worked hard to learn the language, to study the history, to understand what it is to be a part of America. They deserve to be acknowledged for their hard work in becoming a new part of America. This amnesty seems like a slap in the face for all of their hard work. America is supposed to be where you work to make something of yourself. It is what you hear in history class. It is what you see in every Mom and Pop shop out there. It is part of the American dream. And while that dream has been tarnished lately, it was still attainable.
You may not realize the impact that illegal aliens have on the American economy. The Heritage Foundation states In 2010, the average unlawful immigrant household received around $24,721 in government benefits and services while paying some $10,334 in taxes. This generated an average annual fiscal deficit (benefits received minus taxes paid) of around $14,387 per household. This cost had to be borne by U.S. taxpayers. Amnesty would provide unlawful households with access to over 80 means-tested welfare programs, Obamacare, Social Security, and Medicare. The fiscal deficit for each household would soar. We are already printing money faster than we earn it. The purchasing power of the US dollar is weak. We are borrowing from foreign nations. We are in a sequestration to cut costs. Monetarily speaking, given the state of our economy is this *really* the best use of our tax dollars?
We already aren't taking care of the legal citizens we have. Between the homeless and families living on less than working wages, our crumbling infrastructure and economy, America is rupturing from the inside. Can't we - FOR ONCE - look to ourselves first? Bring our military home, put them to work with the Army Engineers and build up our roads, streets, bridges. Let them rehab the vacant buildings - and they are in every city - and make them into welfare to work shelters, or homeless shelters, homes for military veterans, or something. These are our tax dollars, shouldn't they support us first? Is our best - and most judicious - use of these taxpayer dollars in allowing amnesty to illegal aliens?
America seems to have lost its pride. Our legal documents are written in multiple languages. Our telephone systems require us to punch a number to select a language. We go to extreme lengths to be politically correct. We still have no nationally recognized language. We allow money to speak in our politics. We went from breaking up (potential) monopolies - remember the breakup of phone service into Mama and the Baby Bells? - to having corporations too large to fail. How much are we expected to do for others before we start looking out for ourselves? When is America supposed to take care of itself first? President Obama hasn't lived up to most of his other campaign promises, so why is the priority set for this one? I believe it is time for our tax dollars to support America and Americans first. It is time that the government of the United States of America prioritizes its support for legal citizens.
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Iowa Senate Panel Holds Hearing on GMO Labeling Bill Occupy Monsanto
Iowa Senate Panel Holds Hearing on GMO Labeling Bill Occupy Monsanto
While this bill had no real chance of passing, it does demonstrate that change is coming.
The State Senate of Iowa held a hearing Wednesday on a law to implement labeling GMOs in the state for the first time. It would label all products containing GMOs except for in meat, alcohol, and organics (organics are already controlled to be as non-GMO as possible in the current environment). Quite interestingly, not even the most fervent supporters of the bill believed it had a chance, but the committee held the public hearing anyway for educational purposes and to raise awareness on this issue which is heading for the forefront of public debate in many arenas around the country.Thursday, March 21, 2013
Roasted Rainbow Carrots Recipe 2 Ways-Sweet & Savory-Healthy Side Dish — Family Fresh Cooking
Roasted Rainbow Carrots Recipe 2 Ways-Sweet & Savory-Healthy Side Dish — Family Fresh Cooking
The pics are gorgeous, and the recipes sound divine! Great side for Ostara or Easter. The recipes and pictures come from Marla Meredith at Family Fresh Cooking.
The pics are gorgeous, and the recipes sound divine! Great side for Ostara or Easter. The recipes and pictures come from Marla Meredith at Family Fresh Cooking.
For her savory version she roasted the carrots in garlic sea salt and melted ghee. And then finished the carrots with more melted ghee and chopped fresh herbs.
For her sweeter version, she roasted the carrots with unrefined coconut oil, pure maple syrup, a pinch of salt and some cinnamon. Could be a dessert or side…they are delightfully sweet.
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Pin Addiction - or would that be Pinterest-itis?
I saw people
Now I can't stop pinning. There's so much info out there that I didn't know I wanted to know and reference! Who knew?! And then I found this program that downloads ALL YOUR PINS TO THE LINKS!!! - right to your computer. Woo-hoo! Can't beat that. As long as I have my solar charger, I can get all my info without having it all printed out. (Yay, saving trees!)
I started off with basic boards - health, religion, gardening, hair, prepping, food - the usual girly stuff. Then I noticed I couldn't find stuff. I KNEW I read/saw an article, and then couldn't find the thing after pinning. So I reorganized. So then I started breaking out my boards when they had good subgroups in them. Now, I've gotten 139 boards and over 12,000 pins.
So, for the crafters out there, here's a quick list of my crafting boards.
For the Crafters:
Neat Crafts :
- Drawing
- Furniture
- Garden & Outdoors
- Giftables
- Glass
- Holiday Stuff
- Jewelry / Metal Working
- Miscellanea
- Ornaments
- Pallets
- Yarn / Fabric
Snow long and thanks for the flakes!
When I woke up this morning, I saw a bunch of pretty white.
At least I got a couple pretty pics first!
If you look outside now, you'd never know anything had happened. I don't know if I should be happy or sad about this. Hubby and I are leaving for a mini-vacation tomorrow. Our anniversary is next week (married 5 years, together a lot longer) and we "won" a trip to Massanutten. Of course, there is a time share offer involved but we qualify and we're willing to listen to the pitch to get the "free" stay. We'll have to pay for everything but the room fees, but in this economy that's a heck of a break. And we haven't been anywhere in years. Two years ago we went and visited my Mom for three days at her house in Florida. Three years ago we went to my Mom's - along with the rest of the family - for a family Thanksgiving. Four years ago we went to family in RI to bury Gram and have Christmas with family. I think we're due.
Was just watching the news, and discovered that Massanutten got 17" of snow. That's right - SEVENTEEN INCHES.
I guess we're hitting the slopes on Friday with the snow tubes. Hubby and I can't be trusted on skis, there is no doubt we would injure ourselves - the bets would just be how badly.
And it is a given we'll be hanging out in the pool. Indoor, heated waterpark with lots of stuff? We're there!
And we have a wonderful neighbor that will make sure our furry children have food and water while we're gone. Hubby has already said that laptop is staying home. So, this will literally be the first vacation I won't be remotely working. OMG. I don't know what to do. I better grab some books!
In the meantime, check out my Pinterest board. What an addiction that has become for me - luckily it is still free, except for my time. I didn't understand the appeal, but I started slow and now have 130+ boards with over 12,000 pins. Good thing I don't sleep!
At least I got a couple pretty pics first!
And then I looked down and realized it was melting faster than it was landing.
(As seen under this shot of one of my apricot trees.)
If you look outside now, you'd never know anything had happened. I don't know if I should be happy or sad about this. Hubby and I are leaving for a mini-vacation tomorrow. Our anniversary is next week (married 5 years, together a lot longer) and we "won" a trip to Massanutten. Of course, there is a time share offer involved but we qualify and we're willing to listen to the pitch to get the "free" stay. We'll have to pay for everything but the room fees, but in this economy that's a heck of a break. And we haven't been anywhere in years. Two years ago we went and visited my Mom for three days at her house in Florida. Three years ago we went to my Mom's - along with the rest of the family - for a family Thanksgiving. Four years ago we went to family in RI to bury Gram and have Christmas with family. I think we're due.
Was just watching the news, and discovered that Massanutten got 17" of snow. That's right - SEVENTEEN INCHES.
I guess we're hitting the slopes on Friday with the snow tubes. Hubby and I can't be trusted on skis, there is no doubt we would injure ourselves - the bets would just be how badly.
And it is a given we'll be hanging out in the pool. Indoor, heated waterpark with lots of stuff? We're there!
And we have a wonderful neighbor that will make sure our furry children have food and water while we're gone. Hubby has already said that laptop is staying home. So, this will literally be the first vacation I won't be remotely working. OMG. I don't know what to do. I better grab some books!
In the meantime, check out my Pinterest board. What an addiction that has become for me - luckily it is still free, except for my time. I didn't understand the appeal, but I started slow and now have 130+ boards with over 12,000 pins. Good thing I don't sleep!
Monday, March 4, 2013
Dehydrate me, baby!!!
Woot! I'm so excited!
I just scored on a [used] dehydrator! I am picking it up after work tonight. Yay!
I was able to score a Berron food dehydrator - the set up is similar to the Excalibur, with multiple slide in trays and fan at the back.
I love snacking on dried fruits and nuts but have been concerned about the presence of preservatives and other chemicals in the food. Since I will be planting a large garden this year, the dehydrator will come in very handy for preserving some of the garden wealth.
My next target is canning supplies.
This past year or so I've started to really look at what I was eating. I couldn't figure out why I was having such a problem with my weight. 10 years ago I was able to modify my diet and successfully lost over a 100 pounds. [Over 300 if you add in my ex.] I was in a miserable relationship and did stupid things to my body. I found that eating 6 or so smaller meals all day worked wonders for me. Start with a yogurt, have a piece of fruit, something for lunch, some nuts or fruit, something for dinner and something sweet. I never went hungry and felt awesome. Took me over a year to do it, but then it stayed off, until... they irradiated my thyroid. :(
That killed me. I kept eating the same way, but starting putting the weight back on. Gained 10 pounds in two weeks - even though I was eating and doing the same things as before. Oh well.
Now, I've had enough! I am getting older and the joints are hurting more. I don't want to end up with diabetes or high cholesterol or any one of the hundreds of other problems out there. I'm heading back to basics, starting with what I eat and drink.
I scored a Ninja blender and started drinking smoothies in the morning. True story: I was wandering my local box store with a new Ninja in the cart, and as I'm perusing veggies a couple walked up to me and said they'd sell me their Ninja for $25. How can you say no to that?! I've got my juicer at home for finishing the night with green juice. (Fiber in the am, juice in the pm.) I saw a pin about dehydrating greens and making them into a powder, which can then be added to anything. Can't hurt, right? Won't be the same as salad roughage, but I can't always finish my greens before they get spoiled. Rather try this than just feed my compost all the time.
Additionally, this will work wonderfully with our prepping plans. I hate purchasing unknown products, especially ones that I'm going to be eating. Online reviews only get you so far. And the companies can say that they are organic, but there still is no substitute to growing your own. I will now be able to make my own meals in jars/mylar bags. I scored a good Foodsaver from craigslist a couple weeks ago, so I'm all set there.
And there are a LOT of recipes out there for meals in a jar. I've got some great ideas pinned that you can check out here: My Food Prep Pins and here: My Dehydrating Pins
Check them out and let me know what you think! And wish me well.
Yay! I'm off to do my happy dance!
I just scored on a [used] dehydrator! I am picking it up after work tonight. Yay!
I was able to score a Berron food dehydrator - the set up is similar to the Excalibur, with multiple slide in trays and fan at the back.
I love snacking on dried fruits and nuts but have been concerned about the presence of preservatives and other chemicals in the food. Since I will be planting a large garden this year, the dehydrator will come in very handy for preserving some of the garden wealth.
My next target is canning supplies.
This past year or so I've started to really look at what I was eating. I couldn't figure out why I was having such a problem with my weight. 10 years ago I was able to modify my diet and successfully lost over a 100 pounds. [Over 300 if you add in my ex.] I was in a miserable relationship and did stupid things to my body. I found that eating 6 or so smaller meals all day worked wonders for me. Start with a yogurt, have a piece of fruit, something for lunch, some nuts or fruit, something for dinner and something sweet. I never went hungry and felt awesome. Took me over a year to do it, but then it stayed off, until... they irradiated my thyroid. :(
That killed me. I kept eating the same way, but starting putting the weight back on. Gained 10 pounds in two weeks - even though I was eating and doing the same things as before. Oh well.
Now, I've had enough! I am getting older and the joints are hurting more. I don't want to end up with diabetes or high cholesterol or any one of the hundreds of other problems out there. I'm heading back to basics, starting with what I eat and drink.
I scored a Ninja blender and started drinking smoothies in the morning. True story: I was wandering my local box store with a new Ninja in the cart, and as I'm perusing veggies a couple walked up to me and said they'd sell me their Ninja for $25. How can you say no to that?! I've got my juicer at home for finishing the night with green juice. (Fiber in the am, juice in the pm.) I saw a pin about dehydrating greens and making them into a powder, which can then be added to anything. Can't hurt, right? Won't be the same as salad roughage, but I can't always finish my greens before they get spoiled. Rather try this than just feed my compost all the time.
Additionally, this will work wonderfully with our prepping plans. I hate purchasing unknown products, especially ones that I'm going to be eating. Online reviews only get you so far. And the companies can say that they are organic, but there still is no substitute to growing your own. I will now be able to make my own meals in jars/mylar bags. I scored a good Foodsaver from craigslist a couple weeks ago, so I'm all set there.
And there are a LOT of recipes out there for meals in a jar. I've got some great ideas pinned that you can check out here: My Food Prep Pins and here: My Dehydrating Pins
Check them out and let me know what you think! And wish me well.
Yay! I'm off to do my happy dance!
Sunday, March 3, 2013
Politics Today
UPDATE March 4th: Everyone is commenting on this. Check out THIS link for a video of the interview.
As I'm getting older, I find myself watching the shows my elders watched when I was a child. Chris Matthews and Meet the Press are two examples of the shows. I never understood the appeal of them when I was younger and I am certain that many young people today still feel the same way.
Now I find myself becoming involved with the world around me and wondering how did I not KNOW these things? I watched David Gregory interview John Boehner on today's episode of Meet the Press. I wasn't very impressed with the answers given by Mr. Boehner. Politicususa.com didn't seem to enjoy it either. See their summary here: Boehner Interview.
One of the comment that Speaker Boehner kept making was that the President received his tax increase as of January 1, 2013 and should be happy with that as he wasn't going to get any more. This seems very short sighted of Mr. Boehner. The deficit cannot be reduced and fixed with just spending cuts. I think both parties need to work together and establish reasonable spending cuts and creative tax increases.
And by creative, I am talking about things like legalizing marijuana and establishing a "pot" tax similar to the cigarette taxes out there. I think it is also time to take a look at the charitable donation deduction rules, especially with regards to religion - and all religion, I'm not picking on Catholics here. I also think that donations from lobbyists should be highly taxed and treated separately from regular income. They need a flat tax. Face it, this is money a representative would not otherwise receive. If they want to take the funds, pay the tax.
Anyone else have any creative ideas?
As I'm getting older, I find myself watching the shows my elders watched when I was a child. Chris Matthews and Meet the Press are two examples of the shows. I never understood the appeal of them when I was younger and I am certain that many young people today still feel the same way.
Now I find myself becoming involved with the world around me and wondering how did I not KNOW these things? I watched David Gregory interview John Boehner on today's episode of Meet the Press. I wasn't very impressed with the answers given by Mr. Boehner. Politicususa.com didn't seem to enjoy it either. See their summary here: Boehner Interview.
One of the comment that Speaker Boehner kept making was that the President received his tax increase as of January 1, 2013 and should be happy with that as he wasn't going to get any more. This seems very short sighted of Mr. Boehner. The deficit cannot be reduced and fixed with just spending cuts. I think both parties need to work together and establish reasonable spending cuts and creative tax increases.
And by creative, I am talking about things like legalizing marijuana and establishing a "pot" tax similar to the cigarette taxes out there. I think it is also time to take a look at the charitable donation deduction rules, especially with regards to religion - and all religion, I'm not picking on Catholics here. I also think that donations from lobbyists should be highly taxed and treated separately from regular income. They need a flat tax. Face it, this is money a representative would not otherwise receive. If they want to take the funds, pay the tax.
Anyone else have any creative ideas?
Friday, March 1, 2013
Happy March!
The energy this time of year is so exciting. It is almost as if you can feel Mother starting to stretch, waking from her long nap, wiggling her fingers and toes in all the new shoots.
I was outside last weekend and saw growth bulbs shooting out of the earth. I think the squirrels ate and/or moved my crocuses as they haven't appeared. But my daffodils and hyacinths are popping! I'm starting to see growth on my fruit trees, as well. Last week snow, this week growth. Seeing everything sprouts makes me want to go outside and start planting NOW! Then I realize there is a slight possibility of us getting hit by a coastal snow storm on Wednesday, and it isn't time to sow. We shall see what this week brings. In the meantime, I can always start sprouting.
With that in mind, I just bought a bunch of heirloom seeds for my garden. I have such a hard time limiting my selection. I found my seeds at My Patriot Supply. [No, I am not a representative for them, nor are they a sponsor.] Patriot's prices seem reasonable, the packaging is great (resealable mylar) and they have a lot of good reviews. They also guarantee their seeds to be all heirloom and no GMOs. That makes me happy as they say you are what you eat. I am trying to make healthier decisions in my life, including my caloric intake. I hesitate to use the word "diet" as it has bad connotations for many people. But this topic is best saved for another day.
I was outside last weekend and saw growth bulbs shooting out of the earth. I think the squirrels ate and/or moved my crocuses as they haven't appeared. But my daffodils and hyacinths are popping! I'm starting to see growth on my fruit trees, as well. Last week snow, this week growth. Seeing everything sprouts makes me want to go outside and start planting NOW! Then I realize there is a slight possibility of us getting hit by a coastal snow storm on Wednesday, and it isn't time to sow. We shall see what this week brings. In the meantime, I can always start sprouting.
With that in mind, I just bought a bunch of heirloom seeds for my garden. I have such a hard time limiting my selection. I found my seeds at My Patriot Supply. [No, I am not a representative for them, nor are they a sponsor.] Patriot's prices seem reasonable, the packaging is great (resealable mylar) and they have a lot of good reviews. They also guarantee their seeds to be all heirloom and no GMOs. That makes me happy as they say you are what you eat. I am trying to make healthier decisions in my life, including my caloric intake. I hesitate to use the word "diet" as it has bad connotations for many people. But this topic is best saved for another day.
So far, I'm planting two types of carrots, three tomatoes, two lettuce, spinach, cabbage, onion, six squash, two melon and two beans. And some strawberries. And the herbs. At the home ground I already have raspberries and blackberries, two apricot trees, a mixed/grafted pear tree, two apple trees and a "fruit salad" tree with plums, apricots and peaches. The pear tree has five types. I had 5 good sized blueberry bushes, but Hubby decided to transplant them and they died. He didn't realize they need wet toes to be happy. Silly hubby.
So, tell me, what are your garden favorites?
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