Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Loehmanns The Biggest Deal In Fashion!

So many people have become fans of Loehmanns! I decided to add it to our Blog for you!

Here is the site to their on line catalog and I have added it to my site also so all you have to do is click Loehmanns! How great is that??

We need great value and prices in this economy. Being a coupon clipper, bargain shopper before, I am always looking for a great deal (but not letting anyone know it!).

Click the Loehmanns site for the Spring/Summer trends!

http://www.loehmanns.com/index.aspx

Happy Shopping!

Food Safety Tips Prevent Illness In Your Kitchen No Swine Flu Here!

With the Swine Flu running around the world it does bring attention to how we handle cleanliness. I have decided along time ago to make an effort to protect my family from the flu and food borne illnesses. My guess is that it came to me the day my first child was born.

For years I have used bleach to keep the restaurant sanitized as well as my home. Needless to say I have lost count of how many articles of clothing I have ruined due to the bleach spattering out of control while trying to clean.

It is very important to make sure you keep your cutting boards clean and sanitized! I watched a show the other day and was horrified on how new and old cutting boards grew bacteria from chicken even after they were washed. The boards were rubbed with raw chicken, let set a few minutes, then washed with hot water and soap. After that samples were taken with a swab for several days after. Even on the new board there was significant bacteria growth! The older wood cutting boards did show less bacteria growth due to the wood soaking in the moisture and bacteria away from the surface. That creeped me out knowing that the inside of the board was filled with who knows what!

To keep your cutting boards and work areas safe here are a few tips to protect you and your family from unwanted bacteria.

  • Wash all cutting boards with hot water, soap and then sanitize.

  • If wood boards have deep knife cuts replace or sand down the surface.

  • Do use separate boards for raw meats and vegetables.

  • You can put most plastic boards in the dishwasher, but they still need sanitizing.


Sanitizing:


You can sanitize kitchen utensils and cutting boards with bleach diluted with water or white vinegar and water. I keep vinegar and water in a plastic spray bottle on the counter next to the sink at all times. I prefer the vinegar over the bleach (it doesn't ruin clothing, wash rags, towels etc.).


For every one cup of water I add 2 tablespoons White Vinegar. This is also environmentally safe! Safe to use around children and pets!


You can take your cleaned boards, spray them down with sanitizer and let them sit for a while, then rinse.


Happy Cooking :)

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Smocks - A New Twist To Cooking Aprons for Mothers Day!

Check out these adorable Smocks!

I found these cute little cooking aprons while buzzing around the Internet.


A new twist to cooking aprons, we've come along way baby!

Check out the Smock site:


http://stores.smocksdesign.biz/-strse-4/designer%2C-aprons%2C-Smocks%2C-kitchen%2C/Detail.bok

Enjoy!

Free Vera Bradley Gift Set!

I recently found this great website from "Be Write There's" Blog that I follow:

Lauren Nicole Gifts
Handmade Personalized Jewelry and Monogrammed Gifts www.LaurenNicoleGifts.com

http://laurennicolegifts.blogspot.com/2009/04/new-giveway-starts-today-vera-bradley.html

She is currently giving away a Vera Bradley Gift Set!

Really cute stuff. Check it out!

Happy Spring!

Removing Stress From Your Day!

Daily stress takes a toll on your mind and body. It's like a car running 80 miles an hour all the time, eventually it will run down.

You need to treat your stress on a daily basis. Just like going to the gym to build your muscles. It does not happen in one day. You have to work on it every day.

Try taking your bad thoughts when ever they pop up and turn those bad thoughts into something positive. Focus on those positive thoughts and feelings. Every time the bad pops up turn it around. This takes daily practice.

Most of the time things usually seem worse than what they really are.

Make sure you retrain your self to get some sleep. You need enough sleep to reset your mind, body and soul. When you wake in the morning take a couple minutes to breath, focus and meditate. You need to start out your day strong, it will help you handle the rest of the day much better.

Remember: Think positive! Positive thoughts! Positive, positive, positive!

Happy Spring!

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Disney's New Movie - Earth in time for Earth Day!

There is no better way to celebrate Earth Day than Disney releasing a new movie called "Earth". If it is as good as Disney has done in the past it should be a hit. They are saying that the movie Earth is better than the March of the Penguins! That was amazing!!!

Take a dive into nature and listen to some great music along the way! Go to Disney's site to check out the Earth movie clip :
http://home.disney.go.com/movies/


Click here for fun downloads from Earth:
http://disney.go.com/disneynature/earth/?downloads


Happy Spring!

Earth Day! Celebrate Earth Day all year long!!

This is funny to me. We celebrate Earth Day once a year! And why?

If the planet is trying to go GREEN why shouldn't we celebrate Earth Day every day? There are a ton of things you can do to help save the planet.

Every Spring your local Counties usually sell evergreen seedlings for $1 and up. Check out your local County website for contact information. When I had a "yard" over an acre I purchased some seedlings and planted them around the perimeter of the property. Yes they were very small and would take years to grow. They would eventually replace the old trees that would either die out or come down in a storm. I did loose a few for reasons unknown but the ones that made it through the first hard winter are thriving and strong. I drive by every once in a while and get a smile on my face to see that they are still alive! They are about three feet now!

Any nursery or Home Depot and Lowes have small trees! So go get one and celebrate Earth Day anytime!

You can also help by the earth by using organic products in your lawn. Just ask at the store for assistance and they can direct you in the right direction.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Miss USA stirs controversy: Carrie Prejean

First runner-up Carrie Prejean (Miss California) was asked about legalizing same-sex marriage from judge Perez Hilton, the Internet blogger.

She said "I believe that a marriage should be between a man and a woman. No offense to anybody there. But that's how I was raised and that's how I think it should be," during Sunday night's live telecast.

Hilton was visibly upset, and there was a mixed reaction from the live audience. Carrie Prejean ultimately lost the title to Miss North Carolina, Kristen Dalton.

Keith Lewis, the executive director for Miss California USA/Teen USA, apparently said he was saddened by Prejean's response.

Carrie Prejean added that her answer "did cost me my crown," but said: "I wouldn't have had it any other way. I said what I feel. I stated an opinion that was true to myself, and that's all I can do."

What is your opinion? Please let us know, we would love to hear from you!!!!

Chloe's Movie Review: Hannah Montana The Movie


When we went to the Hanna Montana movie it was great!


It was all about a girl named Hannah Montana\Miley Cyrus having a double life. She ends up having a date that ruins her secret. I would see it again and again.


I give it: eeeee


Rated: G

Diba Flats: "Very Hot Candy" Sandal

I received a email from Nordstroms regarding their new Down to Earth Flat Sandal collections.

These I picked are practical and chic! So cute and sweet like candy! You can wear these with anything from skirts to shorts.

Diba 'Very Hot' Sandal
Twin blooms embellish a high-shine slingback fashioned with a cork microwedge and padded footbed for excellent comfort. Adjustable slingback strap with buckle closure and inset elastic. Synthetic upper, lining and sole. By Diba; imported. BP. Shoes. Nordstroms.
These flats are so cute like "candy" for me!
FYI: Did you know that candy sales have increased during this recession? I will take this candy over the sugar anytime ;~)

Happy Spring!

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Grey Gardens Original Trailers and Documentary Videos

"I recently watched the new redone version of the original documentary Grey Gardens".

I was very moved by this very sad tail of a Mother and Daughters relationship through out their entire lives. Having everything, maids, drivers, living in one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the United States and losing it all and living in squaller.

If you have watched the made for TV version you may be interested in seeing some clips from the two Edith's yourself. Click the links below to watch three of the videos I have found to share with you.

Grey Gardens Original Trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mumWYU5aHBU&feature=player_embedded

Little Edie: On conformity, East Hampton and Grey Gardens: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OptEo2NILJc

Hung up on Grey Gardens: http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-1898593921367002573&ei=lpnrSaOKMIHo-AHBjrjqCA&q=the+original+documentary+grey+gardens

Please post your comments below. We are all interested in hearing from you!

Saturday, April 18, 2009

Martha Stewart All Color Bleach is great!

Martha Stewart's All Color Bleach from her line Everyday Living is a great find we happen to stumble across.

I was in need of a color safe bleach after ruining countless pieces of clothing. My husband went to the supermarket and happen to grab the first thing that said "all color" bleach.


It was a very small box and powder I had doubts but its Martha Stewart's! How could it be bad. I love it! It does what it says: lifts stains, brightens colors, is safe for all fabrics and has NO chlorine.

The price point isn't bad the 30.0 ounce box is $1.99.

This is a thumb's up Martha! It's "a good thing".

Happy Spring!

Check out Karen B's Cooking Made Easy at:
http://karenbcookingmadeeasy.blogspot.com/ for cooking tips of the day!

Friday, April 17, 2009

Hannah Montana The Movie with Rascal Flats & Taylor Swift

I took Chloe' to see the new Hannah Montana movie with guest stars Rascal Flats and Taylor Swift. Billy Ray Cyrus her Father played the part of her Father.

The movie was great!

Hannah playing herself a spoiled super celebrity that has somehow lost her way along her climb to the top. Her Father, Billy Ray Cyrus realizing this plots a plan to bring her back to her roots when he tricks her to return to her home town.

The town in need of financial help to survive turns to Hannah Montana to hold a concert for the big fundraiser. Miley Cyrus who grew up in the town as an aspiring singer left and invented Hannah Montana and became a "superstar". However, the towns folk only know her as Miley.

And the adventure continues....


Click here to see Disney's Hannah Montana Movie link:

http://disney.go.com/disneypictures/hannahmontanamovie/#/home

This was a wonderful movie! I was very pleased to see Disney bring back clean morals to the movie screen. With out any violence, blood, bad language or sex! No nudity here!

It had a great plot, kept your attention and was funny. Chloe' cannot wait to go get the soundtrack! You will find yourself singing along while watching.

I give this: * * * * * Stars!

Rated: G

Happy Spring!

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Parachute Penguin The Virga Brothers and James Kokotilo

New Hot Band Parachute Penguin with the Virga Brothers and James Kokotilo getting some exposure! Check them out today :)

Influenced by the likes of U2 and Muse.

"I found out that our type of music appealed to a pretty wide audience," Virga says. "When we started doing shows, we realized the turnouts were a lot bigger than what we expected them to be."

The new EP will soon make an appearance on the iTunes Store .

Check out their myspace page to listen to some music!


Click here: http://www.myspace.com/parachutepenguin


To read more click this link: http://www.calgaryherald.com/entertainment/band+hopes+ground+waddling/1476161/story.html

Happy Spring!

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Susan Boyle - Britians Got Talent - 2009 - Susan Boyle Amazing!

Susan Boyle - Simon was amazed at her talent and here it is click her name above or the link below to view the YouTube Video :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY

It brought tears to my eyes! Amazing!

Monday, April 13, 2009

Mel Gibson Getting Divorce!

Robyn Gibson has just filed legal papers to divorce Mel Gibson.

According to TMZ, Robyn is citing "irreconcilable differences." They have been married for 28 years.

Robyn just signed the papers the day before Good Friday.

 So it's a fresh split

The couple was married in 1980, decades before Mel Gibson amassed his fortune that TMZ estimates at $900 million.

Under the laws of California, community property -- which includes earnings -- is divided 50/50.



So she stands to get a sizable chunk. They have seven kids. Six are adults and one is a minor, Tom, age 10.

According to papers filed in LA Country Superior Court, she seeks joint physical and legal custody of Tom, spousal support and attorneys fees.



There have long been rumors in Hollywood of Gibson's womanizing, even on the night of his drunk driving arrest.

Robyn has not been seen at any Hollywood events with Mel for about two decades, preferring to live a low-profile life.

Robyn lawyer is Laura Wasser, who has done past high profile splits for Angelina Jolie and Britney Spears.

Friday, April 10, 2009

Click here if your Obsessed

There is a new Movie coming out Obsessed. Click the title above to check out the movie web site. It is NOT an ad. This is not a movie for Tweens but for us Mom's to check out.

I think it looks good! We know how to fight to keep what we have and it looks like this will be a good one. So grab the popcorn and have a great time. Post a comment to let us all know what you thought.

Obsessed

Happy Spring!

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Tween Favorite Breakfast Treat!

Chloe' my Tweens favorite breakfast treat is our homemade cinnamon toast. Click here for recipe:

Karen B's Cooking Made Easy! http://karenbcookingmadeeasy.blogspot.com

Look under the tab Breakfast/Brunch.

Happy Spring!

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Click Here for: Yumi Kim Designer

Click on the name Yumi kim above to visit a new site we found.

Time to pack the tights away for the summer! Wake up your wardrobe with tropical or striped dresses and tops from Yumi Kim. For Spring everything is 30% off.

Enter code DCDEALS at checkout.

Happy Spring!

Cokie Roberts "We are our Mothers Daughters"

Cokie Roberts has a new revised book out, We Are Our Mothers Daughters.

The author and NPR commentator says she updated her best-selling book from 10 years ago because since then, mothers and daughters have been making more history. She has added a couple of more recent profiles to those she wrote ten years ago, including Billy Jean King and Hillary Clinton.

Get the book and send us a comment! Let's see if it makes the best seller list again.

Happy Spring!

Monday, April 6, 2009

Hannah Montana Concert 2008

Hannah Montana needless to say is still one of my Daughters favorite entertainers. She knows all words to all her songs!

I was one of those parents that had their husband pull in all his connections to try to get tickets for the "sold out" concert last year. It was Chloe's very first concert so it had better be a good one. We were some of the lucky few that did get tickets. Unfortunately the tickets that we did pay an arm and leg for were on the floor! Thinking that the seats would be great, because we were so close, I was wrong. Once the concert started not one person sat back down until the very end. But that didn't matter to Chloe' she was so thrilled that it brought tears to my eyes to see my child so excited.

Someone had mentioned to me to bring some cotton. "Cotton?" I asked. "Yes, they said for your ears". So I grabbed a few balls and shoved them into my pocket. Once the Jonas Brothers came onto the stage the thousands of girls of every age started to scream! And scream they did! I was wondering if we would be able to hear again once we left.

As I looked around a saw a Father who had brought his Daughter. I thought how sweet that was of him. However, he looked like a deer in headlights. He turned around and smiled funny at me, like he was in sever pain. I handed him the remaining cotton ball I had left in my pocket and said "for your ears". He looked as though he was going to cry! He was so thankful that I was so nice to give him the cotton ball to save his hearing.

The Jonas Brothers and Hannah Montana concert was great. I'm glad we were fortunate to be able to attend. It was an experience I think both Chloe' and I will remember for the rest of our lives.

I remember the ride home.... how quiet it was.

Good Green Stuff

Green Goods

Cargo Plant Love
From the cheerful packaging to the trendy colors, this makeup collection—100 percent renewable and greenhouse-gas neutral—is as good for the planet as it is for your complexion. $16-30; buy online now at Sephora.com


Happy Spring!

Spring Must Have: Cardigans

A must have in your Spring wardrobe is "Cardigans". They come in an array of colors, bright, flowered, striped, solids, any type you need. You can pair a cardigan up with jeans or over a cute dress. Cardigan's are easily dressed up or down.

You can find some great prices for Cardigans in today's economy. Old Navy and American Eagle has them right now for under $100. A bonus is that these are washable! Easy to care for.

Mini Boden has them for around $68. to $128. Some are cashmere very nice but need to be dry cleaned. Boden's are well worth the money! I Love Mini Boden and Boden. The clothing is high quality and wears well. They are very customer friendly also, easy returns.

Nordstrom site Click here for more cardigan's: http://shop.nordstrom.com/C/6018943/0~2376776~2378685~2378691~6018943?cm_cat=040709&cm_pla=general_pov&cm_ite=pov&cm_em=9820001&cm_ven=email

I love the mid arm length cardigan's, Jackie Kennedy would wear them with her clam diggers and ballet flats.

A great Cardigan sweater is a staple and a must have for every Mom's wardrobe!

Happy Spring!

Karen's Movie Review

Seven Pounds

Seven Pounds with Will Smith was a great flick! Will's Characters family dies in a auto accident and feeling as though it was his fault he goes through the movie trying to find others that are decent good people that need help.

It's heart wrenching so grab the tissue box for this one!

Rate: llll (4 out of 5)

Chloe's Movie Review:

Monster's vs. Aliens (PG)
I saw this movie over the weekend. In 3D! I do not usually like 3D movies but this one I did.

It was about these Monster's that were in danger of being destroyed by the Aliens. The character Susan was getting married. Then all of a sudden in the church she grew really big! She gets taken and gets put into a chamber so the Monster's have to defeat this huge Alien Robot to save Susan and the other characters like Dr. Cockroach and Fuzzy.

I rate this movie: llll (4 out of 5)

Tween Spring Trends

Hi this is Chloe' some of my favorite Spring trends for this year is flip flops, mood necklaces, mood rings, fancy sun hats, Butterfly T-Shirts and skinny jeans.

I Love to shop at Claire's for all my "oh my gosh" I want that!

We need to run off to Old Navy and check out all the really cool T-Shirts and flip flops they have in store now :)

Thank You For Visiting!