Fun Friday Post – If I Have to Say It One More Time…

Fun Friday 3-12-15

Do you find yourself having the same conversation over and over again, so much so that  you wished you had a voice recorder hanging around your neck.  Join the Club of which I am not only a Member, but I very well may be THE PRESIDENT.

1.  Wake up  – Hurry Up!!

2.  Who used the last of the toilet tissue?

3.  Please turn down the volume.

4.  I don’t know what’s for dinner or when it will be ready? (All while I am actively cooking dinner.)

5.   No, you can’t have a 4th cup of juice, a 3rd donut, or more ice cream.

6.  No Maam, I don’t want to give you my phone number so that you can text me about upcoming sales.

7.  No, I do not want to do the survey at the end of the call after waiting for 30 mins for your Customer Service Representative to pick up.

8.  No Sir, I don’t want to repeat my order for the fifth time only to get the wrong order when I get to the Second Window.

9.  No, I am not interested in opening a No Name Bank Account in the Super Market, especially when your flyer has Customer Spelled incorrectly.

10.  No, I don’t want to donate to the XYZ  Football Team.  Why, because your shirt says the ABC football team?

Fun Friday: The Best of the 90’s Playlist

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You remember the 90’s right?  Life was still so very easy.  I don’t know about you, but back in those days my biggest concern was finding the perfect look for the day and having a Great Hair Day.  I sure miss those days, but even more than I miss those days.  I miss the music.  When your turned on your radio back then, you were gonna move your body. Thank God for Pandora and iTunes Radio that can tailor your music to your preference.

So let’s have some fun – here are our Top 30 Favorites for the 90’s:

1.  Snoop Dog – What’s My Name

2.  Notorious BIG – Juicy

3.  No Doubt – Don’t Speak

4.  Lauren Hill – Doo Wop (That Thing)

5.  Weezer – Buddy Holly

6.  Nirvana – Smells Like Teen Spirit

7.  Bryan Adams – Everything I Do, I Do It For You

8.  Red Hot Chili Peppers – Under The Bridge

9.  LeAnn Rimes – How Do I Live

10.  Boyz II Men – End of the Road

11.  Shania Twain – You’re Still The One

12.  Van Halen – Right Now

13.  Arrested Development – Tennessee

14.  Bell Biv Devoe – Poison

15.  Janet Jackson – Escapade

16.  Stereo MC’s – Connected

17.  Ini Kamoze – Here Come’s the Hot Stepper

18.  Blackstreet – No Diggity

19.  Soul Asylum – Runaway Train

20.  Aerosmith – I Don’t Want to Miss A Thing

21.  Backstreet Boys – I Want it That Way

22.  Green Day – When I Come Around

23.  Eminem – My Name Is

24.  Missy Elliott – The Rain

25.  Public Enemy – 911 is a Joke

26.  Cher – Believe

27.  Gin Blossoms – Hey Jealousy

28.  Outkast – Rosa Parks

29. Mary J. Blige – Real Love

30.  SWV – Weak

I had a ball listening to these songs as I was going through the list.  What is your favorite 90’s song from the list?  Do you think we missed one?  Let us know in the comments section below.

Happy Friday!!

Fun Friday – What Made It On My Radar This Week!!

FunFridayWe made it to the Weekend!!  That is reason enough to celebrate with all the craziness going around. Every Weekend, I entice myself with plans of pulling the covers up around my neck, sleeping in, drinking coffee in bed and reading a good book.  And, then I am startled awake by two, entirely too awake, wide eyed and bushy tailed little girls.  Every now and then dh  takes pity on me and I wake up to the smells of breakfast wafting through the house and my little monsters happily eating. This is always a treat.  Even though I often miss the days of peace and quiet, I know all too well that these times won’t last forever.

For Today’s Fun Friday Post, I am opening up the blinds and letting you in on what made it on my radar this week.

1.  Monday was a Holiday and Tuesday was a Snow Day, or in Georgia a Potential Threat of Ice Day.  What do you do with your kids on Snow Days?  It’s just enough to drive this Mommy crazy.  Being stuck in the house all day with children who want you to entertain them, can really leave you grasping at straws.  Here are some ideas I found around the web to maintain your sanity, while still scoring major Mommy points. I am putting these on my list for next year(because hopefully we are done with this, and Spring is on it’s way.).   The Indoor Picnic – Game Marathons –  Cookie Baking and Decorating Contest – Beauty Parlor – Hair and Mani-Pedis.  Just to scratch the surface.  I am working on a more detailed post just on that.

2.  The Return of the Mack aka Frank Underwood and my favorite Netflix Series House of Cards.  In case you have been living under a rock for the last two seasons.  Find out more about Francis and Claire here.  It came out this morning, and once this post gets published, I will be in  a self induced House of Cards Coma for the next 13 episodes.

3.  My girls are particularly excited about the Release of the Annie DVD.  I mean over the moon.  There was a lot of hand holding, screaming and straight up joy, when they found out that we could actually pre-order the movie now.  I must admit that I have kind of overdosed on the sound track, because they play it every day.  But, since I don’t intend to have to stomp out an uprising in my own home.  I guess Mommy will tow the line.

4.  Looking for some  Inspiration and Positive Vibes –  Check out my (3) Favorite Instagram Feeds for this week:

A:  TheIconicGirls

B:  ABowlFullofLemons

C:  Proverbs31Ministries

5.  What I am currently looking forward to – The iPhone 6 Plus  or the 6 (Eligible for my Upgrade on 3/1/15) – I haven’t quite decided yet, and yes I know I am way too excited about that…

5.  My favorite quote for the week:

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Photo Source: Pinterest

Enjoy The Weekend!!

Fun Friday – All About The Faves

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 All About Our Fan Favorites

Our Most Purchased and Favorited Digital Print Set – Set of 4 – Butcher Diagrams – Pig, Chicken, Lamb, and Cow – 8X10 – Meat Chart – DIY – Wall Art – Restaurant Art – Meat Cut

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Our Most Requested and Favorited Pillow Design – The University of Alabama Custom Pillow – [No Longer Available in Shop]

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Our Most Favorited and Purchased iPad/iPhone Monogrammed Wallpaper – Preppy Argyle Monogram iPad/iPhone Wallpaper (Pink and Blue) Set of 2 – Personalized Wallpaper – Custom Wallpaper – Phone Background

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 A FEW MORE FUN FACTS:

DIGITAL ITEMS ALLOW US TO GO WORLDWIDE

Stage Presents has literally filled orders from All Over The World.  We have sold our items to customers in Bottrop, Germany, Dusseldorf, Germany, Canberra, Australia, and Nagakute, Japan.

OWNER FAVORITES:  I know we aren’t supposed to show favoritism but Hubby and I each have our favorite items in the store.  We both really have more than one,  but, for arguments sake we narrowed it down.

Hubby’s Favorite: Vintage Train Mail Car Bags (taken in a Vintage Train Mailroom) – 20.5 x 24.5 inch frame – 11 x 14 inch Print – Framed Wall Art

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** I am sure he picked this one because it’s an Anwar Thomas Photography Original.  I confess, I love it too.**

My FavoriteGray and White OVERSIZED Contemporary Decorative Throw Pillows – 20×20 – Geometric Pattern – Gray Pillow

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I love that they are OVER-SIZED and the design of these pillows, and the best part is, we carry it in another color found here.

Thanks for joining us on our Fun Friday Favorite Journey!!

Fun Friday: 10 Things You Don’t Skimp On

10 Things You Don't Skimp On

Since going from a 2 to 1 income household, being  more frugal has become a big part of my life.  I certainly was not excited, nor did I welcome the changes that had to be made to maintain our lifestyle.  But, I knew it had to be done.  There was a lot of restructuring that had to be done and the pieces of the puzzle seem to continually stay in motion.  But, that being said, there are still some things that I just don’t skimp on.

Cleaning Supplies:  Dish Washing Liquid, Laundry Detergent, All Purpose Cleaners & Disinfectant Wipes.  I know not everyone, my Mom included, will agree with me here, but I stand by this one.  The cheaper options just don’t cut it, or you have to use more to achieve the desired results.

Skin Care Products:  Moisturizers, Lotions, Facial Cleansers, Lip Gloss, Makeup.  Eventually, I feel like you know what works for your skin.  I am not a big makeup person, but I swear by MAC Lip Liner and their Tinted LipGlass.  After a lot of trial and error with facial cleaners and moisturizers I am a devoted Garnier fan.  I use their Balancing Daily Exfoliator and their Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel Cream.  I am less discriminating about my lotions, as long as it gives me extra moisture for the winter months, I can get by with Vaseline Intensive Care.

Perfume/Cologne: Whether you are purchasing this for yourself or as a gift.  Don’t cheap out when it comes to this.  You know how you feel when that special someone goes by you and you catch a whiff of his Special Scent.  Right??

Toiletries:  Toilet Tissue, Paper Towels.  For me this is about both comfort and cleanliness, no 1 ply for me.  As for paper towels, I am an all the way BOUNTY girl.  I need my Paper Towels to be Heavy Duty.  I think this is a MOM requirement.  **Not to mention, I have tried some bargain brands that leave something to be desired when it comes to the way they smell when wet.  Has anyone else experienced this? **

Housewares: Linens, Bedding, Towels.  Purchasing Quality Housewares prevent you from having to purchase them over and over again.  I say buy the higher end products, the higher thread counts, the heavier towels and washcloths.  They will last longer and just give you a more pleasurable/luxurious experience.  And, White Sales are pretty common place (especially in January), even if you have to wait to catch these items on sale.  They will be well worth the wait.

Kitchen Appliances:   Blender, Food Processor, Juicer, Toaster and Coffee Maker.  No one wants to begin any kind of project in the Kitchen only to find that your appliance has failed.  I can’t tell you how many blenders I went through before I decided to invest in one that was up to the task.

Nutrition:  Vitamins, Medicine, and Even Healthier Food Options.  It just is not easy to live healthy.  It sucks, but it is the truth.  I try to give my family healthy food choices and options, but I will be the first to admit that I wish I could shop Whole Foods exclusively.  On this, I say do the best you can within the confines of your budget.  They will thank you later.

Shoes:  I am a shoe lover and kind of a shoe snob too.  I probably would have a closet full of shoes, if wasn’t so picky when it comes to my shoes.  Instead I have my staples.  Basic Black Pumps, A Stylish Wedge, Fancy Sandals with or without a heel, that you can dress up or down, Rain Boots, Winter Boots, Sneakers(for Exercise Purposes, and then for Sporty Mom purposes), and as many pairs of Heart Stoppers (the ones that always get you a second look) and Flip Flops, as you can manage.  In this case, quality just last longer, providing you take care of them.

“Underthangs”:  And, let’s face it , even if you are the perfect weight and height, the older we get the better quality we need.  Things just don’t settle where they used to.(side-eye)  They need to pull in, lift up, and separate, etc.  lol.

A Good Bed:  Is EVERYTHING!!  Not sure this even needs an explanation, it makes the difference in both Good Nights and Good Mornings.

“Measure Twice – Cut Once.”  Sometimes it’s worth it to make the informed and maybe more costly choice, right out the gate.  You are putting out more money on the Front End, but I believe it will benefit you in the Long Run.

What are the purchases that you JUST DON’T SKIMP ON?  Share your Comments Below.

Fun Friday: 10 Fun Facts About Me

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  1. I was born in Jamaica.
  2. I grew up in New Jersey, and I am still a Jersey Girl at heart.
  3. I went to college in Huntsville, Alabama.
  4. My oldest child is 18 years old, and my youngest hasn’t even started Kindergarten yet.
  5. My favorite fruit is mango, it’s also one of my favorite flavors and fragrances. (especially mixed into a Cocktail – Mango Mojitos, anyone?)
  6. I married a “Deep South” Country Boy.
  7. I LOVE coffee.  But, only if it has equal parts of coffee, creamer and flavor.  My favorite creamer is Caramel Macchiato.  I am so glad International Delight carries it because Starbucks can be a pricey habit.
  8. I am a list/planner person.  I have 1 planner for my household chores.  I have 1 for my business.  And, I have a Dream and Gratitude Journal.  (Yes, I love to write.)
  9. I can be a little OCD.
  10. Even after 18 years of being a Mommy, it is still one of the scariest jobs that I have ever had. (Both Growing and Molding a human life is HARD WORK.)

I did my part, I shared my 10 Facts.  What about you?  Tell me 10 Fun Facts About You.  Share Below or Feel Free to Share It Under The Post on Our Facebook Page.

Valentine’s Day Fun:  Including your Kids in Your V-Day Celebration – How About A Special Table Setting Just For Them?

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I am sure you already have most of these things at home: Place mats – Heart Doilies (bought a set of 12 at the Dollar Store) – Utensils – Napkins – Ribbon – Anything Pink or Red to Make the Table Pop (In my Case, I used Valentine’s Erasers and Heart Picks.)  And, lastly I made a Wine Glass Candle Lamp from the directions I found here. Voila!!

Fun Friday – All About V-Day!!

Free Valentine's Day Pencil Tag #valentinesday #valentinesdaygift #valentinesdayideas

Wow, did this week fly by for anyone else but me?  Today’s Fun Friday is ALL about Valentine’s Day!!

Do you miss those days when it was just the two of you?  But, that just isn’t the case anymore, now that you have little people running around, who seem to be sapping your romantic flow.  But, you want your guy to know that he is still #1 in your book.  No matter how tired you may be.

Most men are simple.  And, most men don’t really give a hoot about Valentine’s Day.  Even still, you care, so make sure he knows that you do too.  Keep in Mind, that this year Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday (what a treat). So, you have the whole day to make your love feel special.

Here are a few Quick & Hopefully Not Too Dirty Ideas:

Start with Breakfast — In Bed or Out (your choice)

It doesn’t have to be anything GRAND, you know your guy. Add a Sweet Card, a Love Note, or even an IOU (for later fun).  Running low on time in the morning, consider prepping your guys breakfast the night before.

Breakfast in Bed for Valentine's Day

Babysitter or Not –

Can you get a baby sitter to stay with the kids so you can have some alone time? What works better for your family?  Are you going to hit the movies with your honey during the day, or are you going to make it an official date night and don the heels and flirty dress??  Whatever you do, make sure the plan is put in place long before that weekend.  Remember reservations are nearly impossible to get around this time of year.

Of course, if a Baby Sitter is not an option for you, then you have to either plan V-Day around the kiddies, or include them.  When my oldest daughter was much younger, we both dressed up one year and had dinner with my hubby.  It was super sweet and we all enjoyed sitting at the table together for dinner. She enjoyed being included and making a Valentine for her Daddy.

Here are some fun ideas for sharing V-day with your little ones, that I found around the web.

12 Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Your Kids

4 Sweet Ways To Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Your Kids

To Dine –

If you are lucky, maybe you are one the of the couples who manage to get time alone, reserve your table far enough in advance, and are dressed to impressed for a Night On the Town.  Leave everything else on the back shelf for the night.  You have pulled off a major coup!!  Make tonight only about YOUR LOVE.  No talk of work, daycare, or diapers.  Relax and Enjoy Each Other.

Every Day is Special with the One You Love, but Valentine’s day should be even SWEETER.

V-Day Stories –

Sad Valentine's Day Story

Funny Valentine's Day StoryAnd, if you got all the way through this post, Good For You!!

So as promised, here is your Free Valentine’s Day Pencil Tag (PDF File) with instructions.  Click to Download and Enjoy!!

Valentine's Day Pencil Tags

Fun Friday – What’s In Your Bag??

Fun Friday Post - What's In Your Bag?

I always find myself intrigued by the many and varied Instagram, and Pinterest posts on “What’s In Your Bag?”  So, just for fun, I thought I would do one as well.

What's In Your Purse - Contents of My Purse

 

I thought I kept a lot in my bag, or at the very least that my bag was Heavy, but some of you have me beat.  My list is kind of small.

  1. iPhone w/Personalized Case (shhhhh.. don’t tell hubby I have way too many phone cases.)
  2. Business Card Case – Never leave home without it, you never know when you will need to plug your business.
  3. Cosmetic Case – (I’m not a big makeup person, so for me, its just Lip Gloss, Eye Liner, Mascara and More Lip Gloss.)
  4. iPad (It’s like an extension of my arm, when I am not at home.)
  5. Glasses(cause, I am pretty blind), and my Favorite Pen that the Hubby Got Me in Year One.  And, even though it’s not pictured here, I normally carry a spare pen, because I don’t share my special one with anyone.  And, baby girl’s Epipen Jr. (She has severe food allergies.)

NOTE:  After I wrote this, I thought I should go back and add that this is what is in my bag, after I pull out all the receipt, spare coupons, and, when I am traveling alone.  With kids in tow, there is normally 2 mini packs of  Kleenex, Hand Wipes, Candy, and Occasionally Some Bags of Chips, or some other On The Go Snack.  We are passed the age of Diaper Bags, so my Bag tends to double at times.  Yeah me…

OK, so I shared.  Now, it’t your turn.  What’s in your Bag?  Link Up Below.  I can’t wait to see what special things you have in your bag.