Buzzfuse is free, though they also have premium paid accounts available. It's a good way to discover new and exciting content as well as help people discover what you have to say.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Viral Marketing
I signed up Buzzfuse tonight. It's supposed to help get more traffic to my blog. If you have an article or post that you really want people to read, you can add the Buzzfuse widget to that post and share it, or market your content. Buzzfuse gives you a special code to paste into your post, then you activate and release that content. Originally, it looks like it gets shared with your circle of friends - and I had to invite at least 10 friends to release my first post, so some of you may be getting emails from Buzzfuse. I tried to choose those of you who have blogs and would like to get some more readers. Buzzfuse also measures popularity, and judges your content by how people react to it.
Buzzfuse is free, though they also have premium paid accounts available. It's a good way to discover new and exciting content as well as help people discover what you have to say.
brought to you by 
Buzzfuse is free, though they also have premium paid accounts available. It's a good way to discover new and exciting content as well as help people discover what you have to say.
15 Down, 5 to Go - I Think
I've been working on rebates this afternoon and tonight. We bought TurboTax and a whole lot of other software on Sunday. Did we really need all that other software? Maybe not, though we did get several copies of different virus protection software. I don't know which one is better, but we figure we can try them all if they're going to give them to us for FREE. Besides, we have to cover all the computers in the house.
We also got some learn to speak Spanish software that I thought we were going to have to return. I sent an email asking about it because two of the rebates asked for the same proof of purchase. I hadn't heard anything back from the email, so I called today and was told that one of those rebates had expired in September. $10 for this language package isn't bad, but still - I wanted it to be free. About half an hour later, I checked my email and found an answer to my original email question. Yes, both of the $10 rebates were good, and she gave me the online codes to use. I'm going with the email. I have it in writing, and printed out my rebates.
Each software title seems to have not one but two or three rebates. I'm putting everything together, making copies, and putting everything into envelopes. Then, when I get them all done, I will go through each envelope to double and triple-check that everything is right - because I'm obsessive like that. It all has to be perfect, because not everyone is like Walgreens.
We also got some learn to speak Spanish software that I thought we were going to have to return. I sent an email asking about it because two of the rebates asked for the same proof of purchase. I hadn't heard anything back from the email, so I called today and was told that one of those rebates had expired in September. $10 for this language package isn't bad, but still - I wanted it to be free. About half an hour later, I checked my email and found an answer to my original email question. Yes, both of the $10 rebates were good, and she gave me the online codes to use. I'm going with the email. I have it in writing, and printed out my rebates.
Each software title seems to have not one but two or three rebates. I'm putting everything together, making copies, and putting everything into envelopes. Then, when I get them all done, I will go through each envelope to double and triple-check that everything is right - because I'm obsessive like that. It all has to be perfect, because not everyone is like Walgreens.
Get Jamie Home
***AFTER READING THIS POST, PLEASE CONSIDER COPYING IT AND POSTING IT ON YOUR BLOG-THE MORE EXPOSURE THIS GETS, THE BETTER***
She tries to sleep, but she can’t-the noises coming from the only bedroom in the trailer are too loud, too embarrassing. Rolling over she faces the wall and hopes that her father will finish what he’s doing and that her step-mother won’t make any more noise.
She’s living every teenage girl’s nightmare.
It’s bad enough that she was torn from her friends in Kentucky-but living here, in this cramped, dirty trailer with no privacy and no indoor shower is the icing on the cake. Fitting in at school was out of the question-her father made sure of that by not allowing her to socialize outside of class & eventually, she woke up one morning knowing that she would no longer walk the halls of freedom, but instead would be taught in the very trailer she slept in.
It’s probably for the best, she thinks-if anyone ever found out that they make me wear hand me down underwear I’d be the laughing stock of the state anyway…
Jamie wants to come home.
She tries to sleep, but she can’t-the noises coming from the only bedroom in the trailer are too loud, too embarrassing. Rolling over she faces the wall and hopes that her father will finish what he’s doing and that her step-mother won’t make any more noise.
She’s living every teenage girl’s nightmare.
It’s bad enough that she was torn from her friends in Kentucky-but living here, in this cramped, dirty trailer with no privacy and no indoor shower is the icing on the cake. Fitting in at school was out of the question-her father made sure of that by not allowing her to socialize outside of class & eventually, she woke up one morning knowing that she would no longer walk the halls of freedom, but instead would be taught in the very trailer she slept in.
It’s probably for the best, she thinks-if anyone ever found out that they make me wear hand me down underwear I’d be the laughing stock of the state anyway…
She wishes she could move home-to her real home-with her mother and sister in Connecticut. There she would be nurtured and cared for, and allowed to be a teenager…allowed to have opinions and ideas and to cut her hair the way she likes it.
But she knows she can’t. He’s making sure of that too…
Many of you know Linda from Are We There Yet? And perhaps you know that she has two daughters, Amanda and Jamie. Amanda lives with Linda here in CT and Jamie lives in Florida with her father and his wife.
Life for Jamie is not going well.
Jamie is living a lonely life in a cramped, dirty trailer with guardians who won’t allow her to be an individual. She is not allowed to have friends. She can’t choose her own music or movies and she can’t even cut her hair. She has to shower in a common area of a camp ground because her “home” doesn’t have a shower.
She is homeschooled by her stepmother-a woman who is not qualified to take on such a task and Jamie is, for sure, behind other kids her age academically. No doubt, she will also fall behind socially as well.
Though Jamie has expressed to her father that she wants to move to Connecticut to live with her mother, he will not allow it. His reasoning is that Linda is not a good mother.
His reasoning is bull shit.
When Jamie visits, it is easy to see that she flourishes. Her smile is bright and it’s clear that being allowed to smile and laugh and to be a little quirky is the reason. Anyone who reads Linda’s blog knows that she is a caring and attentive mother who strives to give both of her children what they deserve.
The man that Jamie and Amanda call Dad is not a good man. He remarried and is completely wrapped up in his new marriage and does not care what happens to Jamie. If he believes that Linda is a bad mother because Amanda has blue hair, then I wonder what he would say if she were to cast her daughter out of her life simply because she was a little different…
Of course, Linda would never do that-but he did. Amanda lived with her father at one time, and was sent back to live with Linda because she didn’t “fit in” to the family he wanted to create. He no longer speaks to her. Now tell me, how can a man who disowns one daughter ever be a better parent than one who loves unconditionally?
He can’t.
And that’s why Jamie needs to come home.
Being a single mother who makes “too much money” (read: she makes over the poverty level) Linda does not qualify for financial assistance for legal aid, and therefore is having trouble getting a lawyer’s attention. In CT, courts consider a custody award as subject to change until the child involved grows up, and in most states proof of a "change in circumstances" may overturn an earlier award. This flexibility is intended to allow for the correction of poor or outdated decisions.
Jamie has vocalized to both parents that she wishes to move. Her dad has vocalized that it will never happen. Linda made a promise to Jamie that she would do anything in her power to get here home.
But she needs our help.
On the sidebar at Ms Maggie Moo Talks 2 U is a magic button - this magic button allows you to donate to the Get Jamie Home Legal Fund. The faster you click, the faster you will help change the life of one little girl who very much needs a new life.
Please help. We’ve seen in the past that every penny helps…even if you can only donate $5, please consider doing it.
Jamie needs to come home.
We Live in Wisconsin, People
The other night when the weather was supposed to be so bad, Beth ended up calling in to work and not going, because she didn't want to be out in it. It did end up getting cold and windy, but we really didn't get any snow to speak of. I don't think the roads were any worse or even as bad as they have been other times she's gone to work. It's typical - the weather people on the news always make a big deal out of everything, and it rarely ever turns out as bad as they predict. Sometimes I just want to yell, "We live in Wisconsin! We're supposed to be used to this stuff. We're supposed to know how to deal with it." Now, if the same weather was heading for some southern state, then by all means, shut down everything!
It's snowing again. We're supposed to get more tonight than we did the other night. Beth has to work again. This time the roads might actually get bad, but since she already called in once this week, she probably better not call in again. She still hasn't found out for sure whether she gets to keep this job or not, and that might make a difference if they're still trying to decide. Most of all I just want her to be safe.
It's snowing again. We're supposed to get more tonight than we did the other night. Beth has to work again. This time the roads might actually get bad, but since she already called in once this week, she probably better not call in again. She still hasn't found out for sure whether she gets to keep this job or not, and that might make a difference if they're still trying to decide. Most of all I just want her to be safe.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Tomorrow Night
LOST
IS
BACK
IS
BACK
Cory and I just finished watching Lost, the finale from last season. It's good to watch it again to be reminded of what happened. I liked the extra comments on the bottom of the screen, and I'm still wondering why Charlie had to die. I liked Charlie.
I need to spend some time on the Lost site watching the Lost recap in 8 min 15 sec and reading some episode recaps. I know I've missed lots, and not just because I'm usually on the computer while I watch. There is just so much in each episode, and some of it doesn't even make sense until later.
Cold Weather and Money
The kids didn't have to go to school today because of the cold. The wind chill was 25° to 30° below this morning. I guess they figure that's too cold for the kids to be out waiting for the bus or something. I figure it's too cold to walk, so I didn't go walking this morning, either. The kids slept in as long as I would let them, and then they mostly lazed around all day. Teenagers don't do much but mess around on the computer or watch TV.
I worked on rebates - calling with questions about requirements and such. Those things can be so confusing, and I am so obsessive trying to make sure I do everything right. It adds up to a lot of money this time, and I'm not opening anything until I check and double-check that everything will work together. I also found out that I was supposed to have gotten a check for this website I worked on, but somehow the invoice got overlooked. Now that's all straightened out, and I will be looking for a check in the mail.
And speaking of money - the PayU2Blog people finally sent me a password today. So we'll see how that works out. They told me weeks ago that they accepted my blog...
I worked on rebates - calling with questions about requirements and such. Those things can be so confusing, and I am so obsessive trying to make sure I do everything right. It adds up to a lot of money this time, and I'm not opening anything until I check and double-check that everything will work together. I also found out that I was supposed to have gotten a check for this website I worked on, but somehow the invoice got overlooked. Now that's all straightened out, and I will be looking for a check in the mail.
And speaking of money - the PayU2Blog people finally sent me a password today. So we'll see how that works out. They told me weeks ago that they accepted my blog...
Save Money on Car Insurance
Since we've had a teen driver, our car insurance costs have definitely increased. From the things Beth says, I realize it could be worse, much worse. Some of her friends are paying about the same per month as we have to pay every six months for her to drive. Of course, some of her friends have had accidents and gotten tickets, and their insurance has increased accordingly. Unfortunately, most insurance companies charge high rates for all teen drivers because teen drivers are known to be reckless. The combination of teen invincibility and lack of experience is not a good one. I'm just glad my teen driver isn't driving on those freeways in Southern California. Cost-U-Less Insurance has a student division to help these young people understand the basics of car insurance, how to get better rates, and how to plan for the future to get lower rates. The insurance is for those Southern California drivers, but the resources and information can be used by anyone.
brought to you by Cost-U-Less Insurance
Happy Birthday, Elizabeth!
My friend Elizabeth @ Table for Five just happened to mention a few times that today is her 41st birthday. Yes, I can say she's 41 - because she said it first. All she wants for her birthday is 41 comments, so run on over and wish her a Happy Birthday, won't you?
While you're at it, check out her blog. It's great. Show her some love - after all, she's getting OLD!! :P
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
This Resort Sounds Amazing
As I was reading everyone's posts yesterday about the vacation destinations they have been to or would like to visit, I kept finding places that sounded great. When it really is time to plan our next big vacation I am going to have a hard time deciding. Today I found another place that might just be the one. It's the Letoonia Golf Resort in Belek, near Antalya Turkey.
The reason I started looking at it was because of the golf. No, I don't play golf, but my husband does. When I think vacation, I think beach. I want to spend time on the beach, tanning, swimming, reading, and relaxing. That doesn't excite him in the least - kind of the same way I feel about golf. So, he's pretty much said it's fine with him if I get a beach, but he'd like to be able to go play golf while I'm lazing about on the beach. Then later we can meet up and do some other stuff together.
That's what's so cool about this resort. They have the beach, 3 private beaches, in fact, and pools. They have the golf, and they have so much more. It's an all-inclusive resort, meaning all the food, drinks, and activities are included. I could probably get Jeffrey away from the golf course for some sailing lessons and maybe even some tennis or any number of other activities they have. With all these activities I may not have much time just to laze around at the beach or at the pool. They also have nightly entertainment and a Moonlight Disco. There are activities for all ages, even kids, but I'm not planning on taking the kids. Yeah, I'm selfish like that.
The reason I started looking at it was because of the golf. No, I don't play golf, but my husband does. When I think vacation, I think beach. I want to spend time on the beach, tanning, swimming, reading, and relaxing. That doesn't excite him in the least - kind of the same way I feel about golf. So, he's pretty much said it's fine with him if I get a beach, but he'd like to be able to go play golf while I'm lazing about on the beach. Then later we can meet up and do some other stuff together.
That's what's so cool about this resort. They have the beach, 3 private beaches, in fact, and pools. They have the golf, and they have so much more. It's an all-inclusive resort, meaning all the food, drinks, and activities are included. I could probably get Jeffrey away from the golf course for some sailing lessons and maybe even some tennis or any number of other activities they have. With all these activities I may not have much time just to laze around at the beach or at the pool. They also have nightly entertainment and a Moonlight Disco. There are activities for all ages, even kids, but I'm not planning on taking the kids. Yeah, I'm selfish like that.
brought to you by Letoonia Golf Resort
Bad Weather is Coming
It's practically balmy outside. My desktop weather says it's 46°. It's gray and dreary, but it's really not doing anything. However, that is supposed to change. The temperature is supposed to start dropping. It's supposed to start snowing, and the wind it supposed to start blowing that snow all over the place. Sounds wonderful, doesn't it? By tomorrow morning the wind chill is supposed to be -20° to -30°.
I just saw on the television that our school is letting out early - either 1pm or 1:30pm - depending on whether you look at the tv or the web site. I guess they're taking it seriously and expect all this nastiness to move in before school is supposed to let out, and they don't want to be in the process of busing kids home when it gets here. I guess we'll see. That's the problem with canceling school or letting out early - the decision has to be made so early. Sometimes they make the right decision; sometimes they don't. Either way it seems that someone will complain. It's so funny how you just can't make people happy.
Cory was supposed to have Pep Band at the basketball game tonight, but I guess that is canceled. I'm actually kind of relieved. I don't really mind going, and I like hearing the band play, but if it's really going to get so nasty, I really don't want to be out in it. Beth, of course, has to work tonight. It almost seems to be a given - if Beth has to work, it's going to snow. She doesn't like driving in it, either, but she certainly has gotten a lot of experience this winter.
I just saw on the television that our school is letting out early - either 1pm or 1:30pm - depending on whether you look at the tv or the web site. I guess they're taking it seriously and expect all this nastiness to move in before school is supposed to let out, and they don't want to be in the process of busing kids home when it gets here. I guess we'll see. That's the problem with canceling school or letting out early - the decision has to be made so early. Sometimes they make the right decision; sometimes they don't. Either way it seems that someone will complain. It's so funny how you just can't make people happy.
Cory was supposed to have Pep Band at the basketball game tonight, but I guess that is canceled. I'm actually kind of relieved. I don't really mind going, and I like hearing the band play, but if it's really going to get so nasty, I really don't want to be out in it. Beth, of course, has to work tonight. It almost seems to be a given - if Beth has to work, it's going to snow. She doesn't like driving in it, either, but she certainly has gotten a lot of experience this winter.
Heads or Tails - I'd Like to Meet You
Today it's TAILS - Who would you like to meet and why?
Truthfully, I would most like to meet all my blogging friends. I already feel like I know you, because I'm reading about your daily lives and looking at the pictures you take, and visiting the web pages and blogs you've discovered. Every blog post, every question, every picture - with each of these things I feel like I know you more. What would be even better would be to meet you in person.
What about that trip to Australia?
More Heads or Tails can be found at Skittles' Place. If you haven't played before, now is a good time to start! Be sure to tell her that I sent you!
Drug Rehab Sunset Malibu
It seems to be a regular occurrence that we hear on the news that this celebrity or that one is in rehab. Obviously celebrities aren't the only ones with addiction and substance abuse problems, but they're the ones we always hear about. Beth asked the other day why these people who seem to have everything always seem to get involved in drugs. That's a good question. Why do people get involved with drugs and alcohol? Why do some get addicted and ruin their lives? And why is it that these drug Rehabs don't seem to work? At least that's the impression we get when one of these celebrities goes into rehab, gets out, and then goes right back to their old behavior.
Drug Rehab Sunset Malibu is a different kind of drug rehab facility. It's a luxurious, private treatment facility on the beach in Malibu. The founder started Sunset Malibu after completing drug rehab, and many of the staff and counselors have been through addiction and treatment themselves. Because they understand, they can tailor the treatment to each individual. The treatment includes a wide variety of traditional and non-traditional methods - whatever works. There is no one drug treatment program that works for everyone, and they are committed to finding the one that works for each individual.
Sunset Malibu specializes in alcohol detox, substance abuse treatment, painkiller addiction treatment, and treatment of such disorders as depression and eating disorders. It's a small facility, allowing them to focus on the individual and help them regain their life.
Drug Rehab Sunset Malibu is a different kind of drug rehab facility. It's a luxurious, private treatment facility on the beach in Malibu. The founder started Sunset Malibu after completing drug rehab, and many of the staff and counselors have been through addiction and treatment themselves. Because they understand, they can tailor the treatment to each individual. The treatment includes a wide variety of traditional and non-traditional methods - whatever works. There is no one drug treatment program that works for everyone, and they are committed to finding the one that works for each individual.
Sunset Malibu specializes in alcohol detox, substance abuse treatment, painkiller addiction treatment, and treatment of such disorders as depression and eating disorders. It's a small facility, allowing them to focus on the individual and help them regain their life.
brought to you by Drug Rehab Sunset Malibu
Monday, January 28, 2008
Give Me 5 Monday - Vacation Destinations
The topic of today's list is - Give Me Five vacation destinations you've already enjoyed or would like to some day.
- Acapulco - I've been there twice, once the year before Jeffrey and I got married, and then the next year with him. I enjoyed it both times. The first year I went with several people from my college Spanish class. We really enjoyed practicing what we had learned in class. Of course, we found it rather difficult to practice our Spanish because all the people who lived and worked there wanted to practice their English on us. The second time I went was a whole different experience - going with my brand-new husband instead of a group of friends. It was great! We're trying to plan a trip for our 25th anniversary (in 3-1/2 years) - maybe it would be neat to go back to Acapulco? We haven't decided yet.
- Destin, FL - Here we go, another place with a beach. Yes, the beach is important in my life. Besides that, a few years ago in Destin, we had my parents, my brother and his daughter, and some of our cousins all together. So, besides getting to enjoy the beach, we had a really good time with family. Every morning I got up and went walking on the beach. Usually my mom and my cousin went with me. It was great! The sunrises were amazing. One day I even talked everyone into getting up extra early so that we could see high tide. Wow - what a difference from the way we usually saw the beach and water.
- Hawaii - I've never been to Hawaii, but I really want to get there one of these days. Yes, more beaches! Jeffrey thinks it means golf courses.
- Caribbean Cruise - I'd like to take a cruise someday, in spite of all those cruise horror stories you hear nowadays.
- Alaska - and I'd love to go to Alaska. The pictures I've seen are so amazing.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
It Was Nice While it Lasted
A couple weeks ago, I was surprised to see that my PageRank had returned - even better than before. Well, that all came to an end a couple days ago, when Google slapped me back down to a big fat ZERO.
See, it really was a 4:
The whole PageRank thing has been pretty frustrating. Before I started doing paid posts, I hadn't even heard of PageRank, and I for sure did not know what it was. Now apparently, Google has decided that blogs with paid posts do not deserve to have a PageRank. Though I have noticed that this is not across the board. Some blogs have paid posts and still have a PageRank, many others have a big fat ZERO. Advertisers still ask for blogs with a certain PageRank, and there are fewer and fewer blogs that qualify. The blogs that do meet the qualifications are not necessarily the best blogs. They are just the blogs Google has not, for some reason, slapped down to ZERO yet.
It was nice having a PageRank again, for a little while, because I had a lot more choices when it came to paid posts. It was nice being able to choose the ones I wanted and not have to just grab whatever was available and then try to write something about it. It's much better for everyone if I can write about something that matters to me or that I can get excited about.
I have read that it is possible to get your PageRank back if you get rid of all paid posts, tell Google you are sorry you ever did paid posts and promise never to do them again. My question is - what would be the point? If I'm not going to do any paid posts, then what do I need a PageRank for?
See, it really was a 4:
The whole PageRank thing has been pretty frustrating. Before I started doing paid posts, I hadn't even heard of PageRank, and I for sure did not know what it was. Now apparently, Google has decided that blogs with paid posts do not deserve to have a PageRank. Though I have noticed that this is not across the board. Some blogs have paid posts and still have a PageRank, many others have a big fat ZERO. Advertisers still ask for blogs with a certain PageRank, and there are fewer and fewer blogs that qualify. The blogs that do meet the qualifications are not necessarily the best blogs. They are just the blogs Google has not, for some reason, slapped down to ZERO yet.
It was nice having a PageRank again, for a little while, because I had a lot more choices when it came to paid posts. It was nice being able to choose the ones I wanted and not have to just grab whatever was available and then try to write something about it. It's much better for everyone if I can write about something that matters to me or that I can get excited about.
I have read that it is possible to get your PageRank back if you get rid of all paid posts, tell Google you are sorry you ever did paid posts and promise never to do them again. My question is - what would be the point? If I'm not going to do any paid posts, then what do I need a PageRank for?
Friday, January 25, 2008
Free Pistachios
Al's Pistachios is working on setting up their online store. It's not quite ready yet, but they are giving away a free 12-oz. sample while supplies last. Like they say, "Free stuff always tastes better." They also say that this sample is big enough to share, but I'm not sure I want to. Instead I'm going to give you the link so that you can request your own sample.
Warning - for some reason this page will not work with Firefox, so you will need to either use the IE Tab extension of Firefox or some other browser.
Order your FREE Pistachios - even the shipping is free. They're only available for a short time, so get yours while the supply lasts.
Warning - for some reason this page will not work with Firefox, so you will need to either use the IE Tab extension of Firefox or some other browser.
Order your FREE Pistachios - even the shipping is free. They're only available for a short time, so get yours while the supply lasts.
Build Your Own Computer
When Cory was little he once asked me when I was going to learn to work on the computer. It took me a while to figure out what he was talking about, because I was using the computer. We finally figured out that he wanted to know when I was going to take the computer apart and fix it or upgrade it - or whatever it was his dad was always doing. Jeffrey built our first computer by buying all the required parts and putting them together himself. He had to research what he wanted and buy all the separate parts, sometimes from different places. I think he enjoyed doing it, and I know it was cheaper than just going out and buying a computer. Since then he has built several more computers and upgraded others.
There have been a few problems when certain parts didn't like to work with other parts - like this motherboard doesn't like that video card and things like that. Buying pc kits, where all the computers parts are guaranteed to be compatible would certainly have saved a lot of headache. I'm not even sure this was an option when Jeffrey built that first computer. These kits come with complete instructions, and supposedly anyone who can use a screwdriver can do it. Instructions are in plain English with full illustrations, and if you get stuck, you can call someone for help. I'm not sure I'm ready to try, but wouldn't this be a great father/son activity? I think it's about time I ask Cory when he's going to learn to work on the computer.
There have been a few problems when certain parts didn't like to work with other parts - like this motherboard doesn't like that video card and things like that. Buying pc kits, where all the computers parts are guaranteed to be compatible would certainly have saved a lot of headache. I'm not even sure this was an option when Jeffrey built that first computer. These kits come with complete instructions, and supposedly anyone who can use a screwdriver can do it. Instructions are in plain English with full illustrations, and if you get stuck, you can call someone for help. I'm not sure I'm ready to try, but wouldn't this be a great father/son activity? I think it's about time I ask Cory when he's going to learn to work on the computer.
brought to you by Easy as my PC
Sky Watch Friday (#7)
It's Friday again, and that means Sky Watch Friday! This week I took some pictures of the moon - because it was there, and because I just can't help myself. It's just so pretty. These are out my back door in the mornings.Yesterday 1/24/08:
Today 1/25/08:
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Alphabet Tag
Rule #1
Copy all the links below and replace a single link under the appropriate alphabet. If your domain name, or even the title of your blog, starts with an ” A,” you’d replace the link under that alphabet and put the replaced link at the bottom. Also, don’t forget to credit the tagger, or where you got the list from, at the end of the list with a full URL of the post so that a pingback gets generated.
Replaced link: acowboyswife.com
Previous tagger: enjoyingtheride-jenn.blogspot.com/
Rule #2You now have to “tag” at least five people and encourage them to participate so that this thing spreads like a virus. Remember, though, that not everyone’s into these kinds of things, so don’t be upset if they don’t participate. Just simply replace your tag. Remember to tag blogs only and no pornographic ones as we do want to keep the integrity as a blogging community. TIP: Tag your frequent EntreCard droppers via its messaging system.
I am tagging... Amanda, Bradley, Rachel, Diana, and Holly.
Rule #3 Just like any other “meme” out there, ask a question for your taggees to answer along with your own answer to your previous question. This is optional.———–END HERE—————-
I like the idea of the optional question. Too bad I can't think of one right now.
Copy all the links below and replace a single link under the appropriate alphabet. If your domain name, or even the title of your blog, starts with an ” A,” you’d replace the link under that alphabet and put the replaced link at the bottom. Also, don’t forget to credit the tagger, or where you got the list from, at the end of the list with a full URL of the post so that a pingback gets generated.
- alwaysbcmom.com
- bloggingcents.com
- caffeine-overload.com
- delusionsofgrandeur.com
- enjoyingtheride-jenn.blogspot.com
- forumfinder.net
- gotic-peach.net
- happykeg.com
- ipentimento.com
- juliesjournal.com
- kabalyero.com
- ladylike4.com
- michaelpark.net
- notjustmama.net
- originalmx5.net
- patrickdevivo.com
- qweddings.com1
- rantingsofawoman.blogspot.com
- shirleysdelight.com
- thinking-outloud.com
- utada-online.net
- valmg.com
- wickedbabylon.com
- xaviermedia.com
- yimto.com
- zbudapest.com
Replaced link: acowboyswife.com
Previous tagger: enjoyingtheride-jenn.blogspot.com/
Rule #2You now have to “tag” at least five people and encourage them to participate so that this thing spreads like a virus. Remember, though, that not everyone’s into these kinds of things, so don’t be upset if they don’t participate. Just simply replace your tag. Remember to tag blogs only and no pornographic ones as we do want to keep the integrity as a blogging community. TIP: Tag your frequent EntreCard droppers via its messaging system.
I am tagging... Amanda, Bradley, Rachel, Diana, and Holly.
Rule #3 Just like any other “meme” out there, ask a question for your taggees to answer along with your own answer to your previous question. This is optional.———–END HERE—————-
I like the idea of the optional question. Too bad I can't think of one right now.
Ctrl+a
I'm getting frustrated. For some reason I cannot use Ctrl+a to Select All today. I don't quite realize how often I use the little keyboard shortcuts until they don't work. Ctrl+v still works. Ctrl+x still works. Ctrl+z still works. So what in the world is wrong with my Ctrl+a? At first I thought it was something specific to my browser, because it's got some other weird issues today, but then I tried it in PhotoShop, and it didn't work there either. How in the world does a keyboard shortcut suddenly stop working? Any clue?
Save Money on Office Supplies
I recently went online and ordered some ink for one of our printers. I got lucky and happened to order it when they were offering free shipping. I had to order it from a certain store because I had a rebate to send in, but I could have gotten it cheaper at some discount office supply stores if I hadn't had the rebate. Normally, though, I don't have a rebate, and I'm not limited to buying from a certain store. I can search for online coupons and savings codes and buy from the store that gives me the best deal. According to the list at OfficeDeals.info, I could get that free shipping from Circuit City now.
I like that the focus at OfficeDeals.info is on computers, office supplies, ink cartridges, and all things office and business related. It's a good place to start if that is what you are looking for, and you won't have to weed through a lot of other things. The site is updated daily with deals and promotions from some of the top office supply stores today. The latest savings are always reflected, and the information about each of the stores is very helpful.
In addition to offering the best deals and promotions possible, OfficeDeals.info has a nice library of articles to help with everything from setting up a home business and working at home, to finding cheap, discount or free office equipment and furniture. I think the tips for working at home could be very helpful, if I would just follow them. The hardest part for me is scheduling time to work, without letting all the other things get in the way. I keep thinking, "I just need to get this (insert mundane household task here) done, and then I can sit down and work."
I like that the focus at OfficeDeals.info is on computers, office supplies, ink cartridges, and all things office and business related. It's a good place to start if that is what you are looking for, and you won't have to weed through a lot of other things. The site is updated daily with deals and promotions from some of the top office supply stores today. The latest savings are always reflected, and the information about each of the stores is very helpful.
In addition to offering the best deals and promotions possible, OfficeDeals.info has a nice library of articles to help with everything from setting up a home business and working at home, to finding cheap, discount or free office equipment and furniture. I think the tips for working at home could be very helpful, if I would just follow them. The hardest part for me is scheduling time to work, without letting all the other things get in the way. I keep thinking, "I just need to get this (insert mundane household task here) done, and then I can sit down and work."
Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?
When this show first came out, Cory and I watched it several times. It was a fun thing to do together, and no one else in the house wanted to watch it. We hadn't watched it for a while, though, until tonight. I guess it's one of those shows you watch when there's nothing else on, but it doesn't really matter if you miss it. I think it's fun to try and answer the questions, and I really do know a lot of them. It always amazes me the questions that people can't answer - things that seem so easy. Other times they ask questions that I honestly don't remember learning. Then again, grade school was so long ago...
Cory knows most of the answers. Besides being a very smart guy, it hasn't been that long since he was in grade school. They have an online game you can play if you want to find out if you're smarter than a 5th grader. It looks like fun. I'm just afraid that if I start playing I won't be able to stop. It's not like it's just a game - it's educational, right?
Cory knows most of the answers. Besides being a very smart guy, it hasn't been that long since he was in grade school. They have an online game you can play if you want to find out if you're smarter than a 5th grader. It looks like fun. I'm just afraid that if I start playing I won't be able to stop. It's not like it's just a game - it's educational, right?
Save a Whole Load of Money
You already know I like to save money, and it's very important to me that I get the best deal possible on anything I buy. In fact, if I buy something and then find a better deal later, I have been known to obsess over that, even when there's nothing I can do. Eventually I do get over it.
One of the best ways to get the best price available at the time is to use a price comparison site that will tell you what the best price is on the item you want to buy. Save Buckets is one of those sites where you can search for a particular product or browse by category, and they will find you the best price and tell you where to buy it. Something they have that I haven't seen before is what they call My Price. If you find what you want but the price is more than you want to pay, you can let them know how much are willing to pay for that product, and they will email you if the product comes available at that price or lower. They also have some great Buying Guides to help you understand how to choose a product and the features to look for.
One of the best ways to get the best price available at the time is to use a price comparison site that will tell you what the best price is on the item you want to buy. Save Buckets is one of those sites where you can search for a particular product or browse by category, and they will find you the best price and tell you where to buy it. Something they have that I haven't seen before is what they call My Price. If you find what you want but the price is more than you want to pay, you can let them know how much are willing to pay for that product, and they will email you if the product comes available at that price or lower. They also have some great Buying Guides to help you understand how to choose a product and the features to look for.
brought to you by Save Buckets - save a whole load of money
Basic html Lessons in my Google Docs
I went through my computer and found the lessons I took from Sony 101 on basic html. What I have learned from taking those lessons (besides what they teach) is to save the lessons, either into an html document or a Word (or Open Office) document so that I can refer to them later. Otherwise I can not access them after the course is over. In case any of you are interested, I just uploaded them to my Google Docs, and I'll link to them here. Please note that none of the images work, but all the important information is there.
Basic html Lessons:
I also discovered a new thing about Google Docs. I can email my documents. They gave me a special email address, and I can either start a new document by sending an email, and the subject line will be used as the title of the document and the body of the message entered into the document. Or, I can just send an email and attach the documents I want to upload. I hadn't noticed this before, so I just had to try it. I started an email, attached all 6 of these lessons, and hit send. As quick as that, they were all available in my Google Docs. Then I just had to open them, click Publish, and copy the links here.
Basic html Lessons:
I also discovered a new thing about Google Docs. I can email my documents. They gave me a special email address, and I can either start a new document by sending an email, and the subject line will be used as the title of the document and the body of the message entered into the document. Or, I can just send an email and attach the documents I want to upload. I hadn't noticed this before, so I just had to try it. I started an email, attached all 6 of these lessons, and hit send. As quick as that, they were all available in my Google Docs. Then I just had to open them, click Publish, and copy the links here.
Free Hit Counters
I'm finally putting a counter on my blog. I know I have all kinds of widgets to tell me who's visiting and where they're coming from, but I think it will be fun to watch the numbers increase. I've used different free counters before, but they often have some random text underneath them. This one from Free Counters promises to have no visible advertising. Besides just counting my visitors, my free hit counter is going to give me information about my visitors such as what browser they use and what operating system they have, and more. The information is available any time I want to look at it, and it's all free. I can create and customize up to 10 free counters.
They have other free tools for webpages and blogs, such as polls, clocks, and search engines, but I haven't had time to check them out yet.
They have other free tools for webpages and blogs, such as polls, clocks, and search engines, but I haven't had time to check them out yet.
brought to you by Free Counters
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Learning html
I got an email the other day reminding me that January courses are now enrolling at My 101 by Sony. I've taken several free courses there, and I like to check and see what's available. If only I had the time, I would sign up for, and finish this time, the Graphic Design for Non-Designers course. One lesson a week isn't bad, and you get to work at your own pace, but last time I signed up for that one, I just didn't finish it.
I was hoping they were offering a basic html course that I could recommend to those of you who want to learn some html. I took one several years ago, and it was really good. Since they aren't offering that one, I thought maybe this page where you can start learning html would be helpful. Then, after you learn the basics, you can move on to advanced html, if you want to. They have all kinds of information here, whether you want to go through the tutorials or just use it as a reference. And of course, like all good things, it's free.
I'm not sure if he really did or not, but Cory was talking about taking Web Page Design in school next year - so he could get credit for doing nothing. Unfortunately, that's exactly what would happen. Beth took that class last year, I think. It's a one semester class, and it took them the whole first quarter to learn the most basic stuff. Apparently they don't have a text book for this class because there should be enough information on the Internet. Yes, there is plenty of information on the Internet, but the teacher does not go out and find it. They'd be ahead if he just pointed the students to this page and turned them loose. Of course, that is assuming the students have some initiative and aren't just in the class to get credit for doing nothing.
I was hoping they were offering a basic html course that I could recommend to those of you who want to learn some html. I took one several years ago, and it was really good. Since they aren't offering that one, I thought maybe this page where you can start learning html would be helpful. Then, after you learn the basics, you can move on to advanced html, if you want to. They have all kinds of information here, whether you want to go through the tutorials or just use it as a reference. And of course, like all good things, it's free.
I'm not sure if he really did or not, but Cory was talking about taking Web Page Design in school next year - so he could get credit for doing nothing. Unfortunately, that's exactly what would happen. Beth took that class last year, I think. It's a one semester class, and it took them the whole first quarter to learn the most basic stuff. Apparently they don't have a text book for this class because there should be enough information on the Internet. Yes, there is plenty of information on the Internet, but the teacher does not go out and find it. They'd be ahead if he just pointed the students to this page and turned them loose. Of course, that is assuming the students have some initiative and aren't just in the class to get credit for doing nothing.
Surf Camp
Some of my favorite memories from growing up are of the summers I spent at summer camp. The camp I went to offered all kinds of activities, from basketball to archery, cheerleading to water skiing. There are also summer camps that focus on a particular sport or activity. One of those is surf camp, where kids, teens, and even adults can learn to surf. Do you think I'm too old to learn to surf? I love the beach. I love the water. I could do it, right? I could take surf lessons.
It would certainly be an amazing experience for the kids. They have teen summer camps that completely immerse the teens in the surfing experience, taking them from beginners to the next level. Besides learning to surf, teens will learn some marine science and ocean safety, and have lots of fun on the beach with other teens from all over the world. The minimum student to instructor ratio is 3:1, so there is plenty of individual attention and a high emphasis on safety. These teen overnight camps are in some amazing places, too - Hawaii, Australia, Florida, Costa Rica, and the Bahamas, to name a few.
They also have Family Camps and a Women's Only overnight adventure camp. Ladies, anyone interested in leaving the husband and kids and taking advantage of some sun, sand and learning to surf? I have this thing for the beach. I'm pretty sure I'd be jealous if my kids got to go to surf camp, and I didn't.
It would certainly be an amazing experience for the kids. They have teen summer camps that completely immerse the teens in the surfing experience, taking them from beginners to the next level. Besides learning to surf, teens will learn some marine science and ocean safety, and have lots of fun on the beach with other teens from all over the world. The minimum student to instructor ratio is 3:1, so there is plenty of individual attention and a high emphasis on safety. These teen overnight camps are in some amazing places, too - Hawaii, Australia, Florida, Costa Rica, and the Bahamas, to name a few.
They also have Family Camps and a Women's Only overnight adventure camp. Ladies, anyone interested in leaving the husband and kids and taking advantage of some sun, sand and learning to surf? I have this thing for the beach. I'm pretty sure I'd be jealous if my kids got to go to surf camp, and I didn't.
brought to you by Surf Camp
Shopping and Sleep
I just got back from the grocery store. Boy, is it cold outside! I would really rather stay inside where it's warm, but I just couldn't resist the deal they had on cereal. If I bought 6 boxes of General Mills cereals, I got $10 off plus coupons for 2 gallons of milk free. I also had $2.75 in coupons off the cereal. So, all 6 boxes of cereal cost $10.51, and then, counting the milk coupons - 2 @ $3.75 - I figure the total cost for the cereal is $3.01. I know the coupons are for free milk, but I would have had to buy the milk anyway.
I also bought other important stuff like apples, oranges, bananas, lettuce, lemons and lentils (for Lentil Garlic Soup), and broccoli. Now I'm eating a bologna sandwich, and then I need to go finish putting groceries away and wash some lettuce. The kids came home while I was gone. Now Cory is downstairs cleaning, and Beth is sleeping in her room. That girl has always needed a lot of sleep, and she ends up staying up too late watching movies on her computer. Of course, if we say anything about it, she insists, "I'm fine!" I guess it's good she can get a little extra rest today. She doesn't have to work until tomorrow night, when, of course, it is going to snow again. It always seems to snow when she has to work.
I wish I had time for a nap.
I also bought other important stuff like apples, oranges, bananas, lettuce, lemons and lentils (for Lentil Garlic Soup), and broccoli. Now I'm eating a bologna sandwich, and then I need to go finish putting groceries away and wash some lettuce. The kids came home while I was gone. Now Cory is downstairs cleaning, and Beth is sleeping in her room. That girl has always needed a lot of sleep, and she ends up staying up too late watching movies on her computer. Of course, if we say anything about it, she insists, "I'm fine!" I guess it's good she can get a little extra rest today. She doesn't have to work until tomorrow night, when, of course, it is going to snow again. It always seems to snow when she has to work.
I wish I had time for a nap.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Chocolate Massage Oil
The question is, if I order some of this, would it be a gift for him or a gift for me? Definitely me, me, me, but I'll let him enjoy it with me.
Illini Basketball
The father / daughter activity in this house is watching Illini basketball. Cory and I really don't care, but Jeffrey and Beth love watching and cheering for 'their' team. Beth likes the Illini so much that she painted her room Illini colors. Did you know you can buy paint that is officially 'Illini White' 'Illini Blue' and ' Iliini Oraage'? Well, you can, and those are the colors in her bedroom, in bright, bold stripes.
The team isn't doing so well this year. Beth really started watching the year they did really, really well. I think that year they were practically undefeated and went all the way to the Final Four. Beth doesn't do so well when her team's not winning. In fact, tonight they're playing Ohio State, and the score is not pretty. Beth's not even watching.
Of course, I understand. I used to watch the Illini, too. I used to care, but the team was just so inconsistent. Sometimes they'd win, and sometimes they wouldn't. I suppose that's how it works, but I just didn't feel it was worth the energy to care. It's just a sport, after all. I do have a little more tolerance for college sports than I do for professional sports. The idea of paying grown men lots of money to play a game just seems wrong. If it's a way to pay for your college education, well, that's good. Really, I like watching the band and the cheerleaders, but they don't show them very much.
The team isn't doing so well this year. Beth really started watching the year they did really, really well. I think that year they were practically undefeated and went all the way to the Final Four. Beth doesn't do so well when her team's not winning. In fact, tonight they're playing Ohio State, and the score is not pretty. Beth's not even watching.
Of course, I understand. I used to watch the Illini, too. I used to care, but the team was just so inconsistent. Sometimes they'd win, and sometimes they wouldn't. I suppose that's how it works, but I just didn't feel it was worth the energy to care. It's just a sport, after all. I do have a little more tolerance for college sports than I do for professional sports. The idea of paying grown men lots of money to play a game just seems wrong. If it's a way to pay for your college education, well, that's good. Really, I like watching the band and the cheerleaders, but they don't show them very much.
Blog Buddies are the Best
My friend Deb @ Mom of 3 Girls gave me this blog buddies award just the other day. (Did you get that part about it being just the other day?) Deb is one of the best blog buddies there is, and I really appreciate this award.I'd like to pass this award on to all my friends. Really, I would especially like to pass it to someone who hasn't received it yet, but I just don't have the time to view everyone's awards. So, if you consider yourself one of my blogging buddies, and you'd like this award, feel free to take it and display it proudly on your blog. If you leave a comment, I'll list your name here, and we'll pretend I took the time to pass it to you in the first place. How's that?
Thanks again, Deb - you're the best!
Discount Dental Plans
Whenever I look at any of our doctor bills or dental bills, I notice the actual cost of the procedure, and I'm really happy I don't have to pay that. Then there's what they call the 'provider's discount' which means they mark down the cost because of our insurance. It's still more than I want to have to pay, and I'm glad we have insurance to cover most of that. What I often wonder is how people who don't have insurance can afford to pay those original pre-discount costs? I think it would be practically impossible.
Today I learned about discount dental plans that people can sign up for to get discounts off the high cost of dental care. I just put my zip code in and searched for plans in my area. Our dentist came up in the first plan I looked at. It offers savings of 15% to 50% off the cost of dental procedures. They even have a sample chart showing approximate costs and how much members can save. It would only take one or two visits to save the cost of the membership. Plan members simply present their membership card at the time of the dental visit and get the savings up front - no waiting for insurance payments.
Dentalplans.com lets you choose from more than 30 national and regional discount dental plans. You can browse the plans available in your area and then compare them to choose the best plan for you and your family. If you need more help, their Dental Plan experts are waiting to help.
Today I learned about discount dental plans that people can sign up for to get discounts off the high cost of dental care. I just put my zip code in and searched for plans in my area. Our dentist came up in the first plan I looked at. It offers savings of 15% to 50% off the cost of dental procedures. They even have a sample chart showing approximate costs and how much members can save. It would only take one or two visits to save the cost of the membership. Plan members simply present their membership card at the time of the dental visit and get the savings up front - no waiting for insurance payments.
Dentalplans.com lets you choose from more than 30 national and regional discount dental plans. You can browse the plans available in your area and then compare them to choose the best plan for you and your family. If you need more help, their Dental Plan experts are waiting to help.
brought to you by Dentalplans.com
Finals and Exemptions
The kids have semester finals at school this week. I know high school has been a long time ago, but I don't remember having finals. Really I don't. I also don't remember being able to be exempt from finals, but that's what these kids get. If they have good enough grades and not too many absences, they can be exempt from their finals. They still have to take 3, no matter what, but the rest of them they do not have to take. One of the finals Cory had to take was for Jazz Band. He had to write a paper and turn it in by 8am today. He turned it in yesterday, and he didn't even have to go to school today. Tomorrow he has to go and take his other two exams, and then Thursday he gets to stay home again. There's no school Friday for anyone.
Beth had to go take two tests today. She's got two tomorrow - luckily the same time Cory has his, so they can go together. Then she's got another one on Friday. Yeah, somehow she had to take 5 instead of 3, so she only got out of a couple. I guess some of the classes have what they call a 'culminating activity' and you can't be exempt from it. It doesn't count toward your grade, either. Beth doesn't think it's fair that she has to go for those, but there's nothing she can do about it. Besides, being able to skip any exams at all is a big privilege and not a right. Teenagers have a hard time understanding the difference.
Beth had to go take two tests today. She's got two tomorrow - luckily the same time Cory has his, so they can go together. Then she's got another one on Friday. Yeah, somehow she had to take 5 instead of 3, so she only got out of a couple. I guess some of the classes have what they call a 'culminating activity' and you can't be exempt from it. It doesn't count toward your grade, either. Beth doesn't think it's fair that she has to go for those, but there's nothing she can do about it. Besides, being able to skip any exams at all is a big privilege and not a right. Teenagers have a hard time understanding the difference.
Easy to Share Wedding Pictures
When my brother and sister-in-law got married, they had disposable wedding cameras on all the tables. A few people took pictures, but there were a lot of cameras that had only a few pictures taken with them. I know the bride and groom were looking forward to seeing the pictures taken by the wedding guests and being able to enjoy the little moments that they were too busy to notice at the time.
One price covers everything - cameras, shipping both ways, prints, photo DVD, and online album. If you know anyone planning a wedding (Jaye) tell them to check this out.
I bet the wedding guests would have taken more pictures if they had known they would be able to see them later. A new service called iTheesnap.com makes that possible now.
It's easy not only to get the cameras and get the film developed after the wedding, but all the photos are available online for the wedding guests to see and enjoy. They can even download and comment on the pictures. Pre-printed cards with the website access codes can be handed out at the wedding, and only those with the code can access the album. The bride and groom also have full control over the online album, so if any of the pictures are inappropriate, or Aunt Suzy would be very upset to see that picture of herself, those pictures can be deleted.One price covers everything - cameras, shipping both ways, prints, photo DVD, and online album. If you know anyone planning a wedding (Jaye) tell them to check this out.