HANDPRINTS

Nielsen’s Latest Social Media Report

2011-09-19T15:52:00.001-05:00

Nielsen social-media-report

View more presentations from Jennifer Pricci

2011-07-05T10:35:00.004-05:00

Last night was a really fun night with friends celebrating our independence. I was reminded that I had a BLOG. Who knew? Yes I do, and it has been quite neglected since Rykens birth and our big move to Colorado. God has been teaching me many things and I need to write about them. So...while I compose my thoughts (and compose for the blogosphere) I will try to post some pictures and captions between longer deep post to keep it a little more interesting, and much less baron. I will also be repost a few entries. I may try to transition this blog to a new platform. I will let ya know.

I am so glad He is with me always. He is my comforter in every area of life, but many times I have to be reminded when I feel completely alone.

Good to Laugh at Yourself! "Sunday is Coming"

2010-05-08T18:42:00.001-05:00

"Sunday's Coming" Movie Trailer from North Point Media on Vimeo.

It is great to be able to laugh at yourself and this video does.... The people of North Point church made this video and they definitely have some of these elements, the good news is they get it. They can laugh at themselves. Realizing that if relevance is only skin deep and you don't live what you preach...you loose all credibility. Church has to be more than a good live show on Sunday, we need to be the church. We have to serve one another and give of ourselves. I have seen this in action this week as Journey church and other church organizations have gone out in our community to serve the people that have lost everything in our historic flood, not just one day but everyday this week. They are living relevancy and are being the church. No, I don't want to go back to the old days where churches had pews and you only sang from a hymnal. I will always have a place in my heart for that type of reverent worship but we have to be a spirit led church in all we do. Formulas are for math equations and not from the heart of God. We, (the church) have only one map to follow, the Bible, one voice to listen to and that is Holy Spirit.

Why Social Media?

2010-05-08T15:29:00.002-05:00

Don't get left behind!

Starbuck Happy Hour

2010-05-07T11:43:00.002-05:00

Stop by Starbucks May 7th-May 16th to get a Frappuccino blended beverage for half price! Happy hour last from 3-5 pm. Go here for more information.

Flood of Grand Ol Opry

2010-05-03T22:31:00.003-05:00

NO!!!!!!

Nashville TN Flood of 2010

2010-05-02T19:30:00.007-05:00

The video is us traveling West on 96 past Eddy Lane, Pinkerton Park, and the Harpeth River.

MORE HERE: This is very well done

Franklin TN Flood 05-02-10 May 2010 from Jonathan Melton on Vimeo.

The last two days have been unbelievable. We have had more rain here than they have ever recorded in history. 15 plus inches. The Rivers and tributaries are overflowing all over the area. Our schools are closed and many people have lost their homes. This is a very serious situation and some have even lost their lives. I am so sad for the families involved. Please continue to pray for the people in the Nashville area. The pictures just take your breath away with all the devastation. I have seen Brick homes lifted off the foundations and cars stacked like blocks.

However, on a lighter note the Judd's buffalo have escaped, (I hope not to see them) and this guy caught a carp off the road bank at Blackman road and Edmonson Pike! CRAZY!

ONLY IN TENNESSEE! HOLY CARP!

Free Cone Day at Ben and Jerry's

2010-03-22T20:16:00.003-05:00

Thanks to neighbors and fellow bloggers for the reminder that tomorrow is also Free Cone day at Ben and Jerry's! Here is the link for the details. Looks like all my meals will be sweet!

Starbuck Free Pastry

2010-03-22T19:57:00.003-05:00

Summer is around the corner and the freebies are starting again. Tomorrow until 10:30 you can get a free pastry with a handcrafted drink purchase. Print your coupon here or show it on your iphone.

16 year old Creates Avatars to help HAITI

2010-01-27T11:22:00.004-06:00

These are the fantastic avatars Barrett Hillenburg created for Conduitmission.org. He is only 16 years old and he volunteered his time to make these great design pieces to bring awareness of the work going on in Jacmel, Haiti. You would never know that he is only 16 by his professionalism and work ethic. What incredible tenacity, focus and generosity. Check his site out BH Designs. He is just amazing.Thanks so much.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2009-12-29T16:17:00.007-06:00

Wow it has been a beautiful Christmas season. I have so many things to be thankful for this last year. I look back and can only see how amazing my Heavenly Father has been and the grace he has extended to our family.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

SAD

2009-11-05T08:47:00.003-06:00

Being sad is a natural reaction to disappointment and loss in some way, our human nature in the realm of hurt. A broken spirit. There have been many times in my life that I felt profound sadness.

I know the old saying that misery loves company. It is very true, but it doesn't have to be that way. Why is it that many people are so jealous of someone that is happy. They automatically think, that person is faking it or isn't "real". Sometimes that is true, but you aren't seeing their yesterday. So....the sad person turns that sadness they feel into bitterness toward someone else. There it is, the turn. Sadness can turn to jealousy and then bitterness shows up. How could they be happy all the time? I know they have issues in their life. The truth is that every person on the face of this earth has an oppressor. It is not the many afflictions or situations we face in life it is the way we handle those. If bitterness is allowed to creep in, we and the people around us suffer.

Have you every been around a person going through cancer treatment and they are happy and positive. Or maybe you have gone to Africa, and seen the children that have no food or parents or even clean water, yet they are smiling all the time. These people inspire me. They don't allow their circumstances to dictate happiness. Being happy is a choice. We can choose to hold our head up for help, or focus on the trouble and wallow. I know it is so hard when you feel like someone else is responsible for your pain. I know it looks like someone else has it better than you. You and I have to choose correctly. I admit that I don't always do a good job of this either but it is the goal and I often evaluate myself in this way. Our very soul depends on the outcome. Bitterness and unforgiveness can damn our soul to hell.

So if you are sad today, it is OK to grieve and assess. We don't want this : Psalm 10:6 -He says to himself, "Nothing will shake me; I'll always be happy and never have trouble." But we must lay our losses down, careful to not look around us and compare our lives. Take a look inward and if all the fingers you have point back at "you" & "how you feel", walk away from concern for yourself, reach out (as feeble as it may seem) to forgive, and happiness will follow. If you do, I promise you will not be sorry... or sad.

Look who's 10 months

2009-11-02T10:03:00.006-06:00

10 months old this week! We are doing everything in our power to keep up with this one. He weighs 24 lbs and is 30inches long. He is a very sweet child, but not very gentle. The scratch on the left eye and the bruise on the right side are just small battle scars from learning to walk and his not so gentle approach to life. He stands alone and side steps very well, it won't be long now. We can hold his hand and he will walk a little but finds crawling so much faster. I posted on Facebook that we need a life time supply of running shoes to keep up.

Everyday we are so trilled to have him! Thank you Lord.

Taco Bell Free Taco

2009-10-26T15:23:00.003-05:00

Take a sugar break on Halloween Evening and get a Free Black Jack taco from Taco Bell! Offer at participating Taco Bells from 6pm to 12am October 31st.

They say...... "It is not a trick. It's our treat!"

Love the Freebies

Hannah's Prayer

2009-10-23T09:41:00.001-05:00

WOW!!

Pumpkin Ice Cream

2009-10-22T10:20:00.006-05:00

My favorite ice cream is Eddy's because they sell 1/2 fat ice cream. Marty and I love the double fudge flavor but this week I found my favorite, PUMPKIN! I love pumpkin flavored everything.

Do you have a Shakey's in your town? They serve frozen yogurt and every year they would sell an incredible Pumpkin flavor that we fell in love with. If you have one, you need to try it. Sadly, they went out of business here. I could never find another place to get that great pumpkin ice cream, until this week. Eddy's Ice Cream has done it again, Pumpkin. The best news is it is 1/2 the fat!!!! We all love it. The bad news is that it is a seasonal item that they sell only in Sept and Oct. You will have to hurry if you want to try it. We just found it this week. :( I think we need to petition the company to sell it until the end of November at the very least. I think that is definitely a pumpkin month too. Don't you?

By the way, I don't get paid by Eddy's for this favorable advertisement but...........I should.

Starbucks VIA Taste Challenge

2009-09-29T11:08:00.003-05:00

Starbucks is going instant?
Hey guys, we have to try this and see if it measures up. Get a free coffee when you try it.

Baucus's Health Care proposal- "The Mark"

2009-09-17T09:24:00.004-05:00

Like all Americans, I have been watching as our government hashes out a Health Care Bill that will affect all of us. In my research today, I found a good source that outlines the proposal. It is from The Hill.com blog.

I am trying not to make a correlation out of nothing, but I was spun around by the name of the plan. It is referred to as America’s Health Future Act called, The Chairman’s Mark. I missed it until in almost every other paragraph the name was shorten to "The Mark." "The Mark".... you have to be kidding me. The health plan that affects every American is referred to as" The Mark." Well....every bone in my Sunday School girl body was a little shaken by this. The Bible warns of the mark of the beast, could this be the beginning? I am not one to blow things out of proportion so the balanced side of my personality says probably not, but it sure made me think. The name alone gives me pause and we all will be required to have some sort of health plan under this proposal or be penalized by 35%. The fist proposals were even more likely to take control of every area of our lives and looked much more like a possibility of full government control. That kind of control could lead to a mandate of all people to march to their drummer or pay big(some sort of mark would not be out of the realm of possibility). Now, we would be left with a choice. We will be able to make decisions for our own lives. However, they will have a huge foot in the door of our lives, so take note. This is just round one. My children and their children will be in billions of dollars of debt and we all know that debt is the bridal in the horses mouth.

"The Mark", Hmmmmm, what do you think?

P.S. If you are in the Health Insurance business, things are looking good for you and for the rest of us, we need to get in the business.

More Diapers

2009-09-13T22:48:00.006-05:00

The song plays on in diaper land, and on and on and on. I know we have several more years of them, but maybe, just maybe, this little boy will train earlier than the other two. I have made a few changes in the diaper department. Thought I would share that I am now using Earth's Best chlorine free diapers. I mentioned in earlier posts that both of the other boys had a lot of diaper rashes from Huggies and Pampers. I now believe it was due to the chlorine. While I really liked Seventh Generation, Earth's Best has a stretchier tab that is much more comfortable for baby. I have also changed to their wipes as well because they don't smell bad like the competition. So...... fair-well Seventh Gen. I'm on the Earth's Best wagon now.

I still buy them from Diapers.com. I never have to pay shipping or tax and the best news is I don't have to drag them home from the store. They ship straight to my door. Whoo Hoo!

Even though this song drags at times, I have made a little progress in the details.

He is so worth all of it!!

Drawing Me

2009-09-08T07:00:00.001-05:00

So, We have been busy with the regular throes of everyday life. Ryken is feeling much better now. Marty is still coughing up a lung. I believe he is at the end of the virus and soon he will better. Bishop just came home today and announced he had 4 tests tomorrow. It is Monday! That is rough. Seth has one and he made a 100% on the science test he took. I am really a little overwhelmed by the amount of homework the guys have. It often makes me think twice about school all day and that much homework. I don't remember ever having this much.

We are also on a journey, we stay open to what God has for us to do on every level. We have been involved in making many decisions over the past few years. God has never let us down and he has stepped with us as we walk out a path that at times is very unclear to us. Only God knows the path. We must lean on the navigator. Marty's work as a Producer is going really well and he loves it. He also continues to do concerts but leads worship much more often. We know God has called him to use those gifts that he fostered in Marty as a young boy. When Marty was 12 he used to sit under the large tree in his yard and play his guitar and sing worship songs. When ever we have decisions to make, I often find my husband in the dark playing guitar and worshiping until early in the am.

I am a worshiper in the mist. I find myself in worship as I get ready in the mornings or while I wash laundry. I do take time to sit, pray and worship in my personal quite times, but many answers and directions come in the midst of mundane tasks for me.

Ya know, I am so glad that I and my life are a work in progress. I don't know about you but I haven't gotten it right yet. I make mistakes and I have to back up and look at the situation, to even realize where I have been. This reflection is an incredible tool, not to repeat the mistakes. I am glad that I am not the person I used to be and I am not yet the person I will be.

“Now we see things imperfectly as in a cloudy mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity.* All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely.” - 1 Cor. 13:12 (NLT)

Listen to the song Here

DRAWING ME

WHAT HAVE I BECOME
A SINNER OR A SON
I FEEL LIKE SUCH A STRANGER
IN MY OWN SKIN
AM I A CHILD OF GRACE
OR JUST SOME PASSING TRACE
OF EVERYTHING I’VE HOPED FOR
OR COULD HAVE BEEN

WHEN PARTS OF MY LIFE
SEEM SKETCHY AT BEST
I NEED TO REMEMBER
I JUST CAN’T SEE THE REST

CAUSE I’M NOT YET THEM MAN I WILL BE
THE IMAGE IS STILL INCOMPLETE
IF ONLY THESE EYES NEVER CEASED TO SEE
IN THE BIGGER PICTURE
HE’S STILL DRAWING ME

I CAN’T GET PAST THE PAIN
DARK MEMORIES REMAIN
LIKE COLD FAMILIAR VOICES
THEY CALL MY NAME
WILL I RISE ABOVE
COULD I TRULY LOVE
HOLDING BACK ON NOTHING
EXCEPT THE SHAME

WHEN SCARS ON MY HEART
ARE ALL THAT I FEEL
I NEED TO REMEMBER
HIS HEART IS GREATER STILL

CHORUS

I DON’T KNOW WHAT THE FUTURE LOOKS LIKE
BUT I KNOW THAT MY LIFE WILL TELL WITH TIME
AND DOWN THIS ROAD, WHEN I STAND IN PERFECT LIGHT
I WILL SEE THE PURPOSE IN HIS DESIGN

CHORUS

...IN THE BIGGER PICTURE
HE’S STILL DRAWING ME

You Version Live

2009-09-01T23:43:00.004-05:00

John Saddingtion of ChurchCrunch.com gets an interview about Lifechurch.tv 's announcement of the launch of You Version Live. It will launch in October and will be a game changer for sure. WOW! The possibilities are awesome and I am once again so impressed by the teams at Lifechurch.tv. If you don't know who they are go to the site and watch a service.

Hope

2009-09-01T08:35:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I have wanted to scream out to God, WHAT DO I DO??

Elijah had a rough start. We had no idea he had a milk protein allergy and reflux when I was trying so hard to nurse him. I would try to nurse, he would cry and cry and cry. I then had to pump to keep the milk supply up. This was every 2 to 3 hours around the clock. Pump, nurse, walk the floor with crying baby. Beyond sleep deprivation and the pain of the nursing, I prayed for answer to his screaming. I longed for that familiar trance that most babies go into when they drink their milk. At the very least most babies are satisfied after a meal and for Elijah that pleasure was nowhere in sight for many months. My mother and I would take turns trying to comfort him as he screamed in pain. You see.... his little stomach was on fire. He was literally having an allergic reaction with his nose continually full of mucous, throwing up and writhing in pain. We couldn't do anything to help him while his body healed. I felt so helpless as I held him praying aloud and crying myself. In those moments of helplessness, I cried out.

Helplessness, and desperation seem to have that effect. If you watch any movie you will see that in a crisis, even the most heathen cry out for help. I believe we are innately created with a need for greater hope. What does that say about our nature and our need for a savior? I am glad to know about a greater being. God. He is the hope beyond my helplessness, desperation, loneliness and hopelessness. He is waiting, listening and saving.

Romans 8:24 (KJV) For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?

Southern Living Magazine 1 year for $5.00

2009-08-26T09:06:00.002-05:00

This Deal must be over now. I noticed a change in the price on the add. Hope you got your subscription!!!!

WOW, I love Southern Living Magazine. Amazon is offering a year subscription for only $5.00. That is a great deal. Today, I will be renewing the subscription. Follow the link to get yours today.

All over the map but I promise to land at home

2009-08-20T12:56:00.010-05:00

I have had many things on my mind in the last few weeks besides cold and flu. Sometimes the virus we find ourselves fighting, isn't really the main fight. I often think that when we find ourselves caught with many distractions, that take our focus off the bigger picture. It is not the trial of sickness, jury duty and kids homework. I dare say we are muddled in the snare of life, so we can be ever tied to it. Bare with me as I make sense of life.

I wrestle my 7 month old down to spray saline in his nose so he can breathe. I attempt to wipe his nose so he won't continue to rub it in his eyes. This fight is a fight to help him and take away his suffering. At the end of the fight, I almost cry as he stops wailing and calms to a mere snif. I am drained and my feelings hurt, because it takes a fight for me to help him. I desperately try to rip the heart off of my sleeve, in an effort to comfort my self. I know it had to be done or he would wallow for hours trying to catch a breath. I continue to rock him and he falls peacefully asleep. How could this be? We were in a battle here only moments ago, and now he rests.

As a parent, I see the greater good. Does God feel that way about me? Boy, I lay down and wail while God attempts to clear my life so I can breathe. I am sure, I frustrate him as I argue that I can do it all on my own. I futilely describe, what a good job I am doing at managing my life. God is sitting on his thrown, waiting for me to break free from my prideful and eminent death spiral. He says to me that it is my choice, what will I choose. The problem is, I can't see the greater good because I often loose sight of the goal, eternity. Like my 7 month old, I fight in an effort to gain back my control, not letting go of stuff. This struggle began from the very foundation of the world. I have to let go and trust God.

Once again my focus has become me and my problems, what about "Do you really know The One, The One whose image you portray." Ouch!!!!!! I better be mindful of that. My little one could care less about what anyone thinks of his fitful crying. But if I wallow too long, I will snuff the sweet breath of God out, and find my self choking for a breath.

Amazon gift cards

2009-08-17T08:09:00.003-05:00

My kids have been in school since July and now most children are going back. In the flurry of getting everything ready, it is hard to think ahead remembering, that Christmas will be here before you can cut your Jack-O-Lantern. (No pun intended on flurry but when I read it back, I had to leave it) I will blame it on "lack of sleep."

Last year, I was on bed rest, and most everything I purchased came from the Internet. Amazon was a life saver for me. I love that you can buy anything...electronics, books, clothes, toys, collectibles, coffee and even the kitchen sink. Yes, I have thought of buying that on the Internet.

Now, Amazon has gift cards and I think they are a perfect gift for anyone. You can even email it if you have an emergency!! Some etiquette guru may argue that gift cards are impersonal, but in an economy when every $ counts, you need to get what you want or need and not something that will be the next garage sale trinket. I would love to receive one of these as a gift and so I will be buying them for many occasions.

Just act surprised if you receive one from me. ; ) Click the link and check it out.

Walgreens 25 Free prints

2009-08-14T04:38:00.001-05:00

Whoo Hoo, I just ordered 25 of my fun family summer photos from Walgreens for FREE.
Sign up for a new Walgreens W-photo acount and you will receive 25 prints for FREE.
Offer is good until 8/24. Make sure to choose the store pickup option and you will not pay for shipping.

Pier One Clearance

2009-08-13T10:10:00.003-05:00

Pier One is a great place to shop. I love the variety of merchandise you can find there. When they put things on clearance you can pick up really fantastic gifts for others or you may find a treasure or two for yourself/home.

I noticed they have a few end tables on clearance for $12.95 and $14.95. These tables where originally over $100. That is a great deal! So, don't forget to stop by there if you can and to see what you can find.

Happy shopping!

H1N1, The Fishy List and Lots to thinks about

2009-08-10T08:24:00.009-05:00

My blog and tweets have been silent lately. My thoughts have been consumed with the many stresses of life. For me to say that the last two weeks have been stressful would be a small statement compared to the reality.

The title of the Blog reads like the latest Fox News Headline. I wish it were and not, MY life. Let me begin to explain.....Our oldest son went back to school, in the first week we were faced with some difficult decisions, that required special testing and not much time for review. The decisions we make affect his entire school career, so they were very important. He handled the situation/schedule changes very well and in the end he showed us all just how brilliant he really is. We are so proud of him. Although, it took a toll on his body. Thursday, he came home and that night began to run a low grade fever. The same day, the school sent a message to all students that there had been a case of H1N1 at our school. We took him to the doctor the next day. They have been advised to test for Flu, but not specifically for H1N1. If they test positive for Flu they assume it is H1N1, because they say it's August and the regular flu isn't here yet. So.........I guess he had it, and we were case number two. We were shocked and the doctor was shocked, he really wasn't that sick then. He did get a little worse but nothing terrible, the fever was the worst of it. Praise God, the rest of the family seems to be doing great, we are a little run down but no fevers. Following the CDC guidelines he will be out of school until next Thursday. So we have that news headline covered. Ughhhh!

Now......"the fishy list." I am sure you have heard of it on the news. Obama's administration wants people to report others for " fishy information" on health care reform. I believe that I am on that list.

I am a new start up blog and as most of you know, I write about freebies, babies, review products I like, and try to help others by sharing things that help me. I also write about the power of God in our lives. On July 25th I shared a post I read by another blogger about the health care plan. As I wrote then:

I was doing my regular web surfing and I came across the guy who is a guru of iphone hacking. I was reading an article from MacWorld and he can hack a 3Gs Iphone in less than 2 minutes. He is absolutely brilliant. I was impressed.......I can't hack anything but my childrens' hair. I noticed on his website he had written about the Obama Healthcare plan and he included a link to see the bill. So I wanted to share it with all of you. His name is Jonathan Zdziarski and I appreciate him putting this out there it is very interesting and scary. Here is what he wrote.

Then I followed it with his bullet points line by line through the health care bill and a link to the bill its self. I am an average American mom trying to drudge through the bureaucracy to the truth. I looked all over the web to try and get information on the health care bill that is so hotly debated on every news station, and any information, both "good" or "bad", has been difficult to find. You don't know who to believe. With all of the news of the members of the House and Senate being investigated on many levels, all of the banks bankrupt, people losing their homes and the housing market upside down, the car industry belly up, America is now in trillions of dollars of debt, and now to think of changing health care to a government system? Who do you trust? I want to trust our President and pray that he would truly do the right thing for our country. I do pray for him and his family. However, I have taken down that blog post. I am shaken and here is why.

On August 5th I received a comment on my blog in rebuttal to the original post. The writer seemed very knowledgeable. Remember, I am looking for the truth so I think it fair to have any one's opinion. I leave the comments and don't think much about it until,... I see on the news that a information TZAR is actually taking names of people like myself who post something opposite to the information they want me to have. At that time, I look back at the analytic information to try to determine where the post originated. I can't see who wrote a post unless they give me that information, but I can narrow the field down to where a post most likely originated, because I don't have a huge deluge of readers yet. The person did put their first initial and last name. I was able to see that there were 3 visits to my site from Washington D.C.! The third day was on August 5th, the same day the rebuttal comment was left. I was shocked! Someone in D.C. felt it important to correct me, and although I can't be 100% sure with my limited resources, it is more than ironic that the comment originated from there. What would you think?

Well, if the person is affiliated with our government and commenting on my blog.....that is a communistic move, not democratic. No longer is it a person's opinion, or impartial information, but a push of propaganda. It is also very, very scary. Especially in light of the request from the White House to target people by taking their names if they are "fishy." What is the purpose in that? What will they do with my name? If a normal citizen comments, that is much different than the highest office in the world,"The President of the Free World", making a list of people who oppose him, or correcting information he doesn't like. If the White House wants to give good information, they need to put it out on the Internet themselves (labeled from The White House) so we all can reference the facts; to set the record straight, with straight answers to each line of the bill. Why try to squelch free speech and opinion or even try to control free information on a blog?

So you can see, I have had a lot on my mind. I am not a politically active person and I don't want to be. I do care about my family and the things that impact our lives, and I worry that the rules are changing. I can't believe that the sheer innocence in looking for information from many sources is being threatened. You may ask yourself why this matters to you because you may not write a blog, publicly voice your opinion, or like me, pass along the information you find. I have a few quotes from Thomas Jefferson I would like you to think about:

"It behooves every man who values liberty of conscience for himself, to resist invasions of it in the case of others: or their case may, by change of circumstances, become his own."

"When the people fear their government, there is tyranny; when the government fears the people, there is liberty."

"I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them."

Jack in the Box 2 Free Tacos Again August 11

2009-08-07T08:45:00.003-05:00

Hello Friends!!!
Jack in the Box is offering it's two free Tacos again on Aug. 11 2009.
Here is the link for the new coupon.

7 Months!!!!

2009-08-05T09:37:00.007-05:00

Today is our 7 month Birthday. We have so much to be thankful for, he is healthy and strong. Soon, we will be trying to transition to a different type of milk. It is still $27 a can and we will have to pay for that. The insurance WILL NOT pay for it. Please pray for us as we make the transition.

Eljah Ryken is a happy baby that sleeps well. We can put him down in his crib and soothes himself to sleep. After having two other boys that weren't so cooperative, I am trilled. He has been trying to crawl since he turned about 6.5 months. He moves one arm, one knee and then....Boom, back to belly swimming.

As you have noticed, we still use both names. He really answers best to Ryken so we may move to calling him that. I love both names and really either of them will be great. I have mentioned it before but Ryken means powerful. We are amazed at how powerful he is...when I say he is strong, I mean STRONG. He is like pinning down a world class wrestler if he doesn't want to change his diaper. It is a little early for that, so I am just holding on. The future is gonna be fun!

I like to share the products that I love so, for all the mom's with little ones you can have my opinion. We have changed diapers and wipes. I will be posting about that tomorrow.

I always love to hear from each of you, thanks for following my blog.
Have a blessed day friends.

Sheri

Jack in th Box Free Tacos Today

2009-08-04T09:59:00.003-05:00

Jack in the Box is offering two free tacos today you can get your coupon here. No purchase is necessary.

Enough Bad News

2009-07-31T08:47:00.004-05:00

I have posted a lot of bad news in the last few days. From the economy, our failing health care and the fact that they have attacked the iphone and other phones as well. Enough bad news already. The time we spend here on earth is only temporary. Eternity awaits. We may have inconveniences in the natural but God has defeated all of those things in the supernatural. The good news is........

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (John 10:10 NIV)

"Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent." (John 17:3 NIV)

Then the King will say to those at His right hand, Come, you blessed of My Father [you favored of God and appointed to eternal salvation], inherit (receive as your own) the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. (Matthew 25:34 Amplified Bible) Whoo Hoo that is for us!

Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls! (Hebrews 12:2 the message bible)

Remember these things and don't be intangled by all the negative in the world. For that matter, choose to block out the bad. We have a choice. Stuff may happen (to us) but don't let it take your eyes off of HIM.

How To Hijack 'Every iPhone In The World'

2009-07-29T10:44:00.003-05:00

How To Hijack 'Every iPhone In The World'

Andy Greenburg of Forbes has written an article warning of an iphone attack on Thursday. Read the article and take caution.

Link Here

ORGANIZATIONAL CHART OF THE HOUSE DEMOCRATS’ HEALTH PLAN

2009-07-29T08:16:00.004-05:00

This is the organizational chart of the House Democrats' health plan. It is supposed to make it easier to understand. I am not sure if any of them can explain it. At the top of the chart are both Congress and the President, not each of us. I also notice the mandates to both buy insurance and provide insurance. We must have insurance reform but no one should mandate where and who your insurance comes from. I thought I should include it to follow the bill I posted here a couple of days ago. Have fun trying to understand.

Evian Babies

2009-07-27T15:43:00.004-05:00

I love this! It is so cute, I can see Elijah Ryken on those skates.

Walgreens Free Highlighters with coupon

2009-07-22T09:39:00.006-05:00

Hey Familes:

I have some great deals using the coupons widget on my blog. Print out the Bic $1.00 off 2 coupon.

Walgreens: Buy 2: Bic 5 pack Highlighters for .49
use your $1.00 off and you get them free!!!!!

Find all your favorites in the coupons and print them all. I love the 150 calorie Betty Crocker cake snacks!
Happy Shopping!

Thanks to Shannon for this.

Free Night Repair from Estee Lauder

2009-07-22T04:31:00.001-05:00

While I was in college, I was one of those annoying models that sprayed perfume on you. Of course, I asked first. It payed really well and because I could actually sell it, they fragrance company hired me personally for several years to represent them in many locations. I say all of this because my work with them lead to a job as a special event makeup artist for several makeup companies. I have always enjoyed makeup and it was great to perform "mini make-overs", people feel so good when they look good. I am no exception. It is amazing how bad you can feel when you realize you have had a huge stain on your pants or something in your teeth that no one has told you about (not good). I remember those days with fondness...sore back, feet and all.

Thursday, July 23rd from 5-9 pm. Estee Laude r will give a Free 10 day night repair, while supplies last. Estee Lauder is one of the companies I worked with and this product is really good. I admit I haven't used it in a while, so if I can pick it up, I will. I used to always keep it in my makeup bag. If you get it let me know what you think. I am always on the prowl for good makeup products so please feel free to share anything you think is great.

A FREE Discussion-Part 2

2009-07-20T04:53:00.002-05:00

The resounding question seems to be: "Is anything ever really free?" We covered the retail marketing idea, and it is clear that the manufacturer pays for each item given. Let's think about other ideas. Is your time free? What about an idea, your intellectual property? Are those free? Songwriters, musicians, and authors would never get paid and could not afford to produce if all intellectual property were free. This is why we have national adds on "sharing." Do you know many people that can work for free? They could not live or pay bills. I think you can give away anything you wish, but it does "cost something." The foundation of the world's economy is based on supply and demand. We used to trade or barter for goods and services. Currency was supposed to make these acts easier. A price is paid, because no one is a complete self-servicing machine. We need others with expertise in the areas we don't possess. You would not want me to do your taxes. So, if there is a price, or consequence, for not paying, what could possibly be free? Is love free? It should be, but often it isn't. Only the love of God is, because He is omnipotent.

From the beginning of time we were given everything from God. We had no responsibility and worry. Sin brought us to this currency system. Right now, I live in a house and it costs me. Stinks, huh? I don't know about you but my life has not been one of perfection -- I am a sinner (Romans 5:12). The best news of all is God had mercy on us and sent provision for the cost of all sin. The cost of sin is death. The ultimate price was paid for the sin of the world (2 Corinthians 5:21). I am so thankful for the price he paid. There is no death in Christ and when this old body leaves the earth I will be in heaven. The cost to me, Free. I don't have to die for it, I just ask. He paid the price, I make to decision to accept it, confess my sin and live in relationship (not perfection) with God. That's it!!!

Now.....that is the best free deal I could ever share with anyone! A deal of a lifetime...

P.F. Chang's 10% off thru 2009

2009-07-18T04:04:00.002-05:00

If you like P.F. Chang's your gonna love this deal. They are giving 10% off for the rest of 2009 with a warriors card. If you don't have one, sign up here.

Starbucks Free Pastry with Custom Coffee

2009-07-17T16:39:00.008-05:00

Hey Starbucks fans. Starbucks is offering a Free pastry on July 21st when you buy a coffee, between opening and 10:30 am. Become a fan on Facebook and Print the coupon or download to your mobile phone to show the barista.

Marty will be there if he can, I am so sure.

A FREE Discussion-Part 1

2009-07-17T09:19:00.008-05:00

Free, what does it really mean? We have always heard the quote, " There is no such thing as a free lunch." Many times in my life, I have learned that very hard lesson. I admit, that although I am the town crier of Free, it is a very hard thing for me to walk into a Krispy Kreme and get a free donut and walk out. I have to buy something, don't I? Well, I know that is why they do it, it generates sales. I think deep in my psychological being I feel a responsibility to pay for the things I get. What makes me this way? There are people that have no problem walking in and walking out with that free item. Me.... it pains me a little. The other day I sent Marty for the free Mcdonald's mocha and he drove through the drive thru and asked for the drinks, "that were free" but he also bought fries. Obviously, he is in the same boat with me.

What if you are in the mall and they give you a free sample of makeup? I have no problem with that. I used to give them out. Well, what is the difference? Some things I can take without the pain and others I can't.

The bottom line is, when a company gives a free item, they are hoping for your business. Every free download of an album, a free book, a free meal, or free makeup hopes to capture you as a customer. The parameters of what we are willing to give for an item or service leads me to my next point. We could take a sample and dislike it, and if you do, you will never buy it. I guess then it was free for you, but you were educated and made aware. However, then they paid for it (better them, than you, right?) If you liked it, well..........you fill in the blank. I believe Free is a really nice idea, but NOTHING, not even freedom is free. A price is paid by someone.

I will continue to call these cool offers Free, because you don't have to give them your money to get it. I to wanted raise a few questions. Responsibility, who really paid here? This subject is much bigger than a free mocha isn't it. We will explore this together.

Part 2 soon.

Free Arby's Roast Burger with this coupon

2009-07-14T17:04:00.007-05:00

Hey Guys they took the coupon link out. I am not sure why. Sorry, but they are still having all the Wed deals.

You can get a Free Roast beef with a soft drink purchase without this coupon!!! Great summer deals!!!!

I hope this helps a few families save some money.

Free Mocha Mondays at McDonald's

2009-07-13T09:54:00.004-05:00

I love coffee!!!!! Enough said. From 7 am. to 7 pm McDonald's is giving a free 8oz. mocha or 7oz. iced mocha per person per visit, on Mondays. The dates are 7/13, 7/20, 7/27, 8/3. While supplies last. At participating McDonald's.

I'M LOVIN IT!!

Free Baja Fish Taco from Long John Silvers

2009-07-13T08:07:00.006-05:00

Long John Silvers has a new Baja Fish Taco they want us all to know about. On July 14th from opening to 2:30 they will give you a fish taco free. Only at participating locations and one per customer. Here is the link.

"Happy fishing maties. Arrghhhh......"

2009-07-06T11:04:00.003-05:00

Hello Everybody! I posted one of the pictures of some of the food we had over the 4th of July weekend. This was the most special meal, but we also had steak on the grill too. I am curious about what all of you had over the weekend? Was it burgers and hot dogs, seafood? Any great salads or casseroles? What was for desert? This should be fun to see. Post it in the comments section, post a great recipe if you have one. What ever it was, I hope you had a Blast...... Thanks for your input. Blessings.

Halfling Birthday

2009-07-05T14:26:00.004-05:00

Today is Elijah Ryken's half birthday, he is 6 months old today!!!!! We are so happy to have this strong little boy. Ryken means powerful, and he is certainly a very strong baby. He has held his head up since the first week he was born and he almost jumps out of your arms if you aren't careful. We have always fought him for the bottle and if he gets a hold of the spoon when you are feeding him, you lose. What a blessing he has been already. If you have read this blog from the beginning you know his story. He would have never made it if God had not made him as strong as he is.

Why is it that children always do new things when you aren't there? I have had very little time away from him. While on vacation, I have been able to leave him with my mother and father while Marty and I get quality time alone or with our two older sons. Well.......yesterday he decided to laugh really hard for the first time. He has been laughing a little, but not the deep uncontrollable belly laugh until.....yesterday (WHEN I WASN'T THERE). I would be devastated, except they caught it on video for us to see. We are trying to transfer it off of their video camera to show but, I can't view it on my Mac yet. I will post it later.

Now, I will go home to Tennessee and he won't do anything. No, I'm kidding. I think he has had a huge growth spurt while here and he is changing everyday. I know how quickly they grow. We have so many firsts in the near future for him. He will be my last baby so I want to relish in every new milestone. I am thankful to be his mom, and I know God has great things for him to do. Happy birthday my little halfing! We all love you so much. I am glad you think your Poppy is sooooo funny.

Ultimate Freedom/Repost

2009-07-03T22:04:00.012-05:00

I was looking closely at this incredible picture of the sunset that we have taken of the Outer Banks, and as I did I was struck by thought. The impressions left in the sand are footprints (no surprise here). Perhaps even handprints..... (Maybe even a few faceprints based - on the way the people were running down the dunes.)

What I imagined, were all the lives represented by each one. How many were happy, hurting, well, sick, afraid, confused, concerned, overburdened, and alone. How many marriages represented? Each footprint bears a life story. The sand captures a very temporary imprint of someones presence. When the wind blows, the imprint is gone.

In my blog title: Handprints; the impressions they leave, I reference the actual mark others leave on your life. You may have terrible memories - "marks", "handprints", "impressions"- someone has left behind in your life. You may have a lot of love for the people you live with, or brushed by in your journey. For me....I have both and I believe we all do. Life seems to drag on if you carry ugly things in your heart, and that is why we are required to let them go and forgive. It is the ONLY way to live in peace. God knows this so well because he sent his Son for that very reason - forgiveness. It would be nice if our hurts could blow away like the prints in the sand. Actually, they can...
Matthew 6:14-15
For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

God's purification is the ultimate wind to wash over the sand dunes of our lives. We can forgive and be forgiven. I want to be conscience of the impressions I am leaving on people. So today, on the day of Independence and celebration of freedom, I will choose ultimate, eternal freedom. The freedom from sin through forgiveness.

Could He Be Weaning Off Milk??

2009-06-29T08:24:00.005-05:00

In the last few days the baby has been a little fussy. We are desperately trying to maintain his schedule and do all the fun vacation stuff. At first we thought he was just teething but no real tooth eruptions to speak of. Now for the last two days he is pushing away his milk after we give him his cereal and fruit or vegetable. WHAT? Maybe this is only a temporary change so I offer the milk anyways, but it is too expensive to waste. Could he be weaning before he is even 6 months?? It has been so long that after I write this I will go to research land to try and figure it out. Remember his milk tastes terrible, Nutramigen AA Lipil. He is allergic to other milk. If any of you have any wisdom to pass along I would love to hear it. Moms please help!!!

Blessings on your Monday, don't forget about Ben & Jerry's if you have one.

Ben & Jerry's Buy One Get One Free Sundaes on Monday's

2009-06-28T04:40:00.003-05:00

Ben & Jerry's is offering a summer treat to everyone. On Monday's you can buy one and get one free Sundaes. The Free offer extends through August 31 so we will have time to take advantage of it. Here is the link to find your closest Ben & Jerry's.

Sun, Sand, Water, Rollercoasters and Birthdays

2009-06-27T11:20:00.010-05:00

Being raised on the ocean is something you take for granted until you move to the middle of Country. There is so much to do here in Virginia. I neglected to mention all the history of Williamsburg, Jamestown, Yorktown, and Washington DC, just a short hike down the road. On the other hand there are the beaches. We are surrounded by water here. Every branch of the military is represented here too: Navy, Air force, and Marines. The background music to every day is the constant roar of F-14s, F-22/23s, and all types of aircraft. This is home for me. All of these great sites have influenced my life.

Now we focus on trying to let my kids do all of the things I was so fortunate to do. I was struck with reality as I stood in line for a roller coaster that I use to ride at their age; and how, not so long ago, we used to stroll them in this park - like we do Elijah. How time flies! Now the new roller coasters are even better, but we still have fun on the old standbys. The following video is of Griffin, one of the newest.

Today is Marty's Birthday. We will spend time as a family and cook out. Family is the most important thing in both of our lives. Besides our commitment, service and love for Christ, we will let nothing destroy our family. We have committed our children and our marriage to God. I am sure that this is the glue that keeps us together. The enemy has tried - and, as long as we live on this earth, he will try - to destroy our family. I am so glad to have a husband like Marty who gets this. We work on all of our relationships every day, including ours with God. So today, we celebrate the birth of an awesome guy, brilliant musician, master word-smith, and a great father: Marty Magehee. I love you...

Breaking News And The Voices Of Twitter

2009-06-25T23:03:00.006-05:00

Twitter is a very powerful tool. If you don't know what is, you need to learn about it. My mother says she will never ever share all she does with anyone. Culture has taught her generation not to share any personal or any information with others. The Asian culture has been even more private, they avert eye contact, much less tweet what they ate for lunch.

Today, my generation is doing just that. The point isn't what we had for lunch, or our vacation schedule, but I think it has more to do with building trust. You may ask, "Can't people lie and pose as someone they may like to be instead of who they are?" Yes. It truly becomes increasingly difficult for a person to portray a lie if they tweet, because you hear the voice that lies between the words. The more they tweet the more you learn about the person. Trust or distrust is built. You, can follow or un-follow.

Yesterday, at 3:15 PST Michael Jackson died. He was only 50 years old and seems to have died of an apparent heart attack. I am on vacation in VA at my mothers house and at 5:15 eastern the local news channel 10 reported his death. We were so shocked but being a new twitter' we decided to tweet it and I also posted to Facebook. I then began to verify the news by looking online, TMZ. com reported it also, the only one to confirm it at that early time. LA Times was the next to report it confirmed, followed by the AP and then Fox News. CNN was last to confirm it and even confused the situation by reporting he was in a comma. Along the way, I tried to tweet the latest news as it happened. Twitter was on top of the news, when breaking news happens it was the fastest and first. Filtering to the truth is the only hurdle. I guess, filtering through the truth is always the hardest part of any medium, even in a hard back. The beauty of twitter is you can build trust between you and the people you follow. As the trust is built, you are able to here the "voice" of your friends and know that they will only pass along material that they believe viable and truthful. Twitter provides the fastest vehicle to date. Hearsay could always pose a problem for breaking news, but "real time" events require many voices.

Free Family film festival!

2009-06-24T09:35:00.006-05:00

Thanks to our friend Debbie in Florida, I can bring this tip to moms about the free movies from Regal Cinemas! Here is what their site says:
REG’s Free Family Film Festival is Now Showing! When school’s out, kids around the country visit selected Regal theatres for the Free Family Film Festival. It’s a fun-filled nine weeks of movies for kids and parents. Since 1991, Regal has provided this service to the community, and best of all it’s FREE!
Selected G & PG movies start at 10AM each Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. First-come, first-served seating is limited to theatre capacity. The Free Family Film Festival is safe, lots of fun and a great way for kids to spend a weekday morning in the summer.
Tickets for our 2009 Free Family Film Festival are exclusively available at select theatres’ box office on the day of the show. You can also select a state from the list below to find participating theatres in your area along with what films are playing each week! Click here for the link. Remember about Arby's freebies today!!! With a purchase of a soft drink you receive a regular roast beef sandwich. Lunch and a movie!!!!

Virginia or Bust

2009-06-22T09:13:00.006-05:00

I am from the beautiful state of Virginia. Every time I drive through the state, I am reminded of how beautiful it is. The Mountains of Virginia are hard to beat, but then there are the beaches. The Atlantic Ocean has it's brown sand but as you cross the bay the smell conjures up many great memories. I grew up only about a mile from the beach. Living about 12 hours away from my family has always been really difficult and on this particular Fathers Day we will make it to see my father.

Just 22 weeks ago we added a new little addition, Elijah Ryken, for him to see again. Children are such a blessing and I hope, I have been a blessing to my dad. We had to take the long trip in two days for our own sanity, and the comfort of the baby. It is so funny how babies always do something new when you go out of town. In the video he is sitting up alone and biting his socks. We were so excited to see him bending down and back up again all by himself. Well, soon he will be off to college so I better keep the camera rolling. He will be grown before I know it.

Fathers Day! TCBY or Duncan Donuts

2009-06-18T06:00:00.003-05:00

A few companies are giving away treats to dads on Fathers Day. Duncan Donuts is giving away a free Latte on Sunday. If your dad isn't a coffee drinker (like mine) you can go to the nearest TCBY for a cup or cone of ice cream for FREE.

Maybe even, pick up a cup of coffee from Duncan Donuts before church that day. Then after your special lunch or dinner stop for desert at TCBY. Sounds like a SWEET plan.

Remember to check your locations! Call First!

Bargains

2009-06-17T09:17:00.011-05:00

By now, most of you know that I love a bargain. I really love nice things but I always try to get the best value for the money I spend. On this blog, I try to share with you all of the bargains I find and the products I like. I love when my friends give me a tip on a sale. I have one friend who always calls me with deals on things she finds while she is shopping and I do the same. I have a great story for you today.

When I found out I was pregnant, I was so overwhelmed because I had already purged all my baby gear. Also, the economy and the music business has not been a friend to us and things were very very tight. My sweet sister-in-law threw a beautiful shower for me and my friends were so gracious and actually bought many of the items I needed. (THANKS TO ALL OF YOU!) There was one thing on my registry (a mobile) that I really did not NEED, I just wanted it because it matched the entire theme of the room and the bedding. The cost of that item was $49 and I wasn't about to buy it at that price. SO.....I waited and waited for it to go on sale. After the bay was born we went to the store and the entire line of bedding and the mobile were discontinued. I was shocked! It hadn't been out that long. Sadly, I resigned myself that the mobile was gone forever.

Last month, I was walking through Ross Dress For Less shopping. I never go to the very back of the store like I did on this day. On a shelf....all alone...was a generic box with a mobile in it. I couldn't see it well so I took it up front to the cashier and asked if she could open the box and let me see it. When she did, I could not believe it! It was the name brand mobile I wanted for $6.99, not $49. WOW! What a bargain, and now my nursery was complete! I appreciate it so much more now.

The principal of this event is not only the bargain I found and completing a nursery, but for me a much bigger idea. I know a silly little mobile is such a small thing but I am always trying to learn. How many times have I given into my immediate desires and regretted it? How often have I jumped at an opportunity and realized if I had waited I would not have made a big mistake. Better yet, how often haven't I trusted that God really cares about every aspect of my life, and I hold things back from his control. Big ideas, that came from my little bargain. I waited, lost the opportunity(I thought), and then after I let it go, there it was. Do I need to let go of more in my life? The answer is yes. How about you? What do you think?

Elijah Ryken loves his little mobile and as I turn the music on and it turns round-n-round, I remember what a bargain it truly is. A reminder lesson without a huge price tag.

Skin Deep

2009-06-16T06:39:00.007-05:00

I have been thinking a lot about skin lately because of my Basel Cell Carcinoma. I am sure it will be fine after I treat it with the medicine they gave me. We are so obsessed by skin aren't we? If it looks good we don't think about it. If it looks or feels bad..........acne, moles, warts, skin diseases or even worse a burn, a scar or skin cancer, it can totally change the way we feel. Our skin actually has everything to do with our overall appearance and it is the biggest organ of our body. Skin, covers and protects the body as its' main function. But we get caught up in the appearance aspect of it more than the protection. Why? Because we are human. Other animals only care about the bugs that bite them. They don't go to the dermatologist for skin checks. You may say, "Yeah Sheri, but you can die from skin diseases." Yes we can. We can also become very disfigured by severe injury. We again, are human....and that is what makes us such a unique species.

Although, we are created in the image of God himself (Gen 1:27). I am glad that one day I won't have this "skin suit," this natural body will be gone and I will no longer care about how I look or better yet if it will die. Don't get me wrong, I will still go to the dreaded dermatologist to get "checked" but I won't worry because I realize eternity is much more than skin deep.

Romans 8:18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.

Orange Julius FREE Light Smoothie

2009-06-15T10:23:00.001-05:00

When I was a little girl, I loved to go with my mom and dad to the mall for an Orange Julius smoothie. I had one last week and all the childhood memories came flooding back to me because they still taste the same! Now, they have a variety of smoothies and flavors. I believe the orange will always be my favorite but I am gonna try this new light version. They are offering one FREE on June 19th.

CLICK HERE to print your coupon for a free Orange Julius 20oz. Light Smoothie!

"Offer valid only on June 19, 2009. Offer valid for one 20 oz. Light Smoothie, either Strawberry Delight™, Tropical Sunlight™, or Berry-Pom Twilight™. Limit one coupon per customer during the day of the promotion. While supplies last. Not valid with other coupons or special offers. No cash value. Valid only at participating Orange Julius® locations.

CLICK HERE for the Orange Julius Website.

Arby's Wednesday Summer Deals

2009-06-13T11:24:00.012-05:00

Hi Friends! Arby's is offering some slammin' deals this summer. They are every Wednesday through August. I think we could save some money if we can take advantage of a few of these. Remember to check your nearby locations to see if they are participating because some are not. I called the Arby's in Franklin and they are, so if you are out and the kids or the "big kids" are hungry, remember these deals.

Here's the schedule for the rest of the month as well as July and August:

JUNE
17 Free Regular Sidekickers® with any sandwich purchase
24 Free Regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase

JULY
1 Free Regular Beef 'n Cheddar with any soft drink purchase
8 Free Orange Cream Swirl Shake with any sandwich purchase
15 Free Regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase
22 Free Roastburger with any soft drink purchase
29 Free Iced FruitTea with any sandwich purchase

AUGUST
5 - Free Regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase
12 - Free Roast Chicken Club with any soft drink purchase
19 - Free Iced FruitTea with any sandwich purchase
26 - Free Regular Beef 'n Cheddar with any soft drink purchase

Walgreens $5 off $25 purchase

2009-06-10T15:33:00.005-05:00

I thought I better post this today. It is only good today and tomorrow. Click here for the Walgreens $5 off $25 purchase coupon.

Beautiful Moments

2009-06-09T22:08:00.006-05:00

I live about 12 hours away from both sets of Grandparents. Once you have children, it is so difficult to be away from family. I seem to be a little old fashioned when it comes to family and maybe even a little idealistic. My mother-in-law and I were talking about how families used to stay in one place and have family businesses. Everyone in the family pitched in to help on every project and helped raise the children. I also realize that not all family situations are healthy and in those situations their needs to be some distance. However, I believe my generation is missing out on the valuable life experiences that parents provide for their children and grandchildren. Many women are like me, they are "road widows". Husbands travel for a living, and we are left to handle the home and children. Life can be very lonely and difficult when you are isolated from the people that love you most. So..... I settle for the" beautiful moments." I learn so much from cooking along side our mothers, and if Marty and I could only know how to fix everything like our fathers, it would be amazing. I often tell my mother, I pray I am half the mother she was and I will have done well.

Life is so busy and we get very consumed by our immediate situations. I forget that I am building beautiful moments, when I cook a meal for my family and the boys want to help, or they sneak a bite before everyone sits down to eat. Time is moving quickly. Soon, I may have to drive to see their children. But today, in the middle of doing laundry, cooking, diapers, running errands and everything else that needs to be done, I will try to enjoy a "beautiful moment." I don't want to miss any, like I often do.

Can you find a few of them in your life?

Sonic has Free Root Beer Floats!

2009-06-03T08:00:00.008-05:00

Today is a great day. The last day of school for the boys!!!! To celebrate tonight we will go to Sonic for out Free root beer float! Yep, from 8pm-12am they will give you a free root beer float. What a great way to celebrate the beginning of summer. Click here for details. Participating locations.

Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer

2009-06-02T10:51:00.006-05:00

The lipstick I am using everyday is this awesome Burt's Bee's Lip Shimmer. This fun all natural lip tint was my alternative to all the chemical ridden lipsticks while I was pregnant. As it turns out, I really love them so I will continue to use it. My favorite is the Nutmeg with Radiance over it. Here is a blurb from Burt's Bees:

A kiss of color and pearlized shine perk up our world famous 100% natural lip balm, while natural ingredients like vitamin E and coconut and sunflower oils moisturize and soothe your lips. Choose from 11 yummy, all natural shades: Champagne, Raisin, Merlot, Rhubarb, Watermelon, Nutmeg, Fig, Cocoa, Toffee, Guava and Papaya

Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer
Natural and beautiful! I just love that.

Did you Know?

2009-05-27T10:12:00.008-05:00

I think, this is the mission field!
Even this is old news now. Imagine that!

1 Corinthians 2:9 But just as it is written, “Things that no eye has seen, or ear heard, or mind imagined, are the things God has prepared for those who love him.”

2009-05-22T15:32:00.007-05:00

In honor of Marty going to Hollywood Studios Disney today, I wanted to post this video. He went to see our friend Carol Saragusa in the new American Idol show. The summer weekends are Star Wars weekends!!!!!! May the force be with you, Babe.

American Idol

2009-05-21T17:25:00.003-05:00

Well, I am going to give my two cents on the American Idol show.

WARNING: TURN THE CHANNEL IF YOU DON'T WANT TO HERE IT !

First, I am really happy that Kris Allen won the gig. While my favorite was Danny Gokey, after he was gone I wanted Kris to win. I think that was the case for many people and that is why Kris won. The Danny votes went to Kris and then it was just a numbers thing.
Second, Adam Lambert has an incredible talent and range and there is not doubt about that. I am very familiar with range because Marty (my husband)... sings so high.....higher than me. However, Adam does need to tone down, when it comes to his facial expression and that crazy habit with his tongue. I am careful to say that because again... Marty is very unique and can make some crazy faces and Kris is no stranger to some genuine quirkiness. The disconnect with Adam is no natural believability with the quirkiness instead of mere theatrics and show. I saw glimpses of the real Adam now and then and people want to see that, not Adam the character.

I am very impressed that Adam has been very gracious. He will do very well in the future. I hear he is a genuinely nice guy. Danny said today on Fox "Adam is fine...he is a really nice guy, we are all fine, this is just the beginning for all of us." I believe that is definitely true and I hear Adam has already been offered the front man job for Queen. That is huge!

I pray for all of the contestants, they are in a very tough place.....the ruthless paparazzi eye. They are also on the verge of having all the world has to offer, fame and money(and everything that comes with that). The slope can get very slippery there. As Christians........we need to pray for all of those kids.

On the show itself, I loved the great performances and the use of the legends in their own field for the finale. The humor was a nice touch and although I have a real problem with "the too much skin thing" I really appreciated Kara proving it didn't have anything to do with the girls looks, bikini girl (BG) just stinks as a singer. Obviously.....Kara is the whole package and BG was miffed. I loved it! I thought I would bust a gut when they spoofed Randy (For you, For me, For you!) and Paula's vocabulary. It was also great to see Lionel Richy, and I love Keith Urban.

However, I was very disappointed with most of American Idol's shows this season, because of the song choices many of the big artists performed live. Mostly, trash in my opinion. It made me want to turn it off. American Idol needs to show moral responsibility and invite artists that are family friendly. While I love a good healthy singing competition, I struggle with the idol name and some of the content they push. In the end, I am glad there is a platform for new talent to be discovered.

There it is... many thoughts.....two cents isn't worth much today so, I will move on now...

Congratulations Kris!
What do you think?

Old Navy $1 Flip Flops

2009-05-19T08:27:00.006-05:00

Hey shopping friends! Thanks to the Deal Seeking Mom we won't miss the deal of the week. It looks like, Old Navy Solid Colored Flip Flops will be $1 on Saturday May 23 only, while supplies last. Head out early to get yours. I usually wear these all summer long. I am going to have to drag the entire family out this Saturday, Marty will be singing in Orlando. All you Floridians stop by Celebrate Church and say hi to him. Also, tell him you saw me at Old Navy.

Popchips

2009-05-18T12:38:00.006-05:00

I love potato chips and they love me. The challenge has been to find a good tasting low fat, natural chip. I am always trying to watch what I eat and loose a few pounds. Finally, I've found the answer to my potato chip addiction. Popchips!!! Yum, I love these. These chips are not baked or fried they are put under pressure and popped. They have several flavors and none of the bad stuff. No trans fat, saturated fat, cholesterol or preservatives. They are only 4 grams of fat per serving(22 chips). Most of the lower fat chip items range from 7 to 9 grams of fat. Here is what they say on the Popchip website:

We don't fry it (unhealthy). We don't bake it (undelicious). We take the finest ingredients, like wholesome potatoes, apply heat and pressure, and pop! It's a chip. Then we use an artful blend of natural seasonings for a snack so tasty, crispy and dip-able, you won't even notice it's (we hesitate to say) healthier.

Healthy and good tasting, they mix with your favorite sandwich or as a quick snack that won't blow your diet. I found them at Kroger here in Franklin, but I understand Target is carrying them too. Follow the link above and type in your zipcode for the stores in your area. My favorite so far is the Salt and pepper. Memorial Day is this weekend, so maybe you could give these a try instead of the fried chips. Get poppin my friends, you can do the taste test and let me know what you think!

Designer Clothes Guilt

2009-05-14T19:46:00.001-05:00

Ok......I love nice clothes but I rarely buy anything expensive. If I do, it has to be a good deal. I spend most of my time at the Walmart or Target but, my favorite place to shop is in New York City. Today, I can hardly make it to the mall with the new little man in my life. The alternative is to stay home and shop from the couch. I have found another website that is pretty cool. The clothes are high end and name brand, at a great price. It is like a TJ Maxx for the luxury brand. You must become a member but the membership is free. The name of the site is Gilt Group. Yes, you may feel a little guilty when you shop there but they do have affordable lines too. I bought a pair of Hunter boots for $58. The retail is about $140. Check them out. As always, please tell them I invited you, and they will give me a $25 credit. Then you can pay it forward and get your $25 from the people you invite. Have fun friends!!!! Let me know the deals you get.
Sheri

ALONE

2009-05-07T10:56:00.007-05:00

Do you feel alone is this mire of life? Sometimes, I do. Even though I have an incredible little family. You see, the enemy is out to isolate each of us and make us feel as though we are alone. We feel as if our situation is the hardest, the biggest or most painful. In self preservation, I always try to remind myself that, whatever I am going through could be worse. Someone is suffering much more than me. Across the world there are men, women and children dieing in need of basics. How can I be so selfish? Well, we all are like that at times. One of the best lies we fall prey to is "We are alone, no one understands." The "flesh suit" (i.e. Marty) we live in rises up and tells our mind and heart that we deserve better. What is it that we really deserve ? I know the answer and I am glad for God's mercy on me when I think this way. What do you think? What lies set your mind in turmoil at times?

A milk protein allergy and Reflux?

2009-05-05T18:01:00.007-05:00

Yep. Elijah has both and it has been a very difficult start to say the least. I thought he would never stop crying in the first 2 1/2 months. What is a milk protein allergy? A milk protein allergy occurs when the immune system see the milk protein as something the body should fight off. This causes an allergic reaction and our baby had blood, and even intestine sloughing off in the diaper. You can imagine how his stomach felt. Everything was inflamed. The milk has to be broken down to it's most elemental form. If you think of regular formula, the milk protein it has is the size of a chocolate candy bar. The milk protein Elijah has to have is the size of cocoa powder. The cost of the formula is $500 a month. So, you can see we are not only dealing with a sick baby but a budget disaster. We have been blessed with a very helpful pediatrician and he hooked us up with the most wonderful Pharma nutritional rep. She is also a christian, and bent over backwards to get formula for us to get started in the right direction.

We started to pray, not only for Elijah to get better, but also for the insurance to help with the milk. God put the many pieces together for us, and today we found out that they will cover it a month at a time. PRAISE GOD!!!!! Elijah Ryken is a new baby, gaining weight and feeling much better.

Thank you Lord, for your mercy.

What's all the Hoopla?

2009-05-05T16:15:00.003-05:00

Where have I been? In baby land. While there, I am always looking for a deal. I have found a great website that shows you valuable coupons and gives you cash back. If you are making purchases online you need to look at this site. It is called Hoopla Doopla. You can visit hundreds of stores and if you make a purchase they will give you cash back. I am currently stacking up my pile of money and every little bit helps. Save money and earn money! Check them out and let me know what you think.

Elijah The Miracle

2009-03-15T17:52:00.012-05:00

I am always so overwhelmed by our amazing creator and his handiwork when it comes to the formation of life in the womb. Every child and every birth is a miracle from God. Elijah’s journey into the world is no exception. However, he had a few bumps in the road; but, God showed up and here is his birth story...

First of all, I am 41 years old and this pregnancy was a complete surprise. There are many risk factors that are presented to you when you are advanced maternal age. I chose not to do any testing on this baby. I just knew he was a gift from God.

At 33 weeks we found out the I was dilated 2 ½ and 80% effaced. I was having contractions all the time, sometimes for 1 to 2 hours, 10 minutes apart, but they would stop if I would take it easy and lie down. Although the Dr. would'nt stop the birth at this point, I was told to lie down and give the baby a chance to get to full term (37 weeks). I was beginning to swell and had a lot of walking pain, because my pelvic bone was separating (SPD).

By 39 weeks, I couldn't wear normal shoes. I was also contracting & in a lot of pain. My Doctor said I was 3cm and almost 90% effaced -- but no baby! That is, until Sunday night, Jan. 4th.
As most of you know, Marty has continued to travel and sing, which made me very nervous at that time. He arrived home Sunday evening around 6:30, after a 5 hr. drive. I started contracting (as usual) every ten to twelve minutes, but this time things changed all of a sudden. I couldn't walk, the pain was too much. Contractions were less than 5mins apart and we had to go downtown to the hospital.

After waiting to be checked in (ouch!!!!!!), the nurse checked me and I was 8 ½ to 9 cm. with double peak contractions!! They thought I would deliver anytime and began to get ready. We then found out the baby was turned, which slowed the dilatation, and I was in full-blown back labor (no wonder I couldn't walk). The process of getting from 9 to 10 took about 1 ½ hrs, still contracting every minute or so, but he had to turn in order for me to deliver him without an epidural or C-section. They put me in a pretzel position and I began to pray. Then, “he turned” and we all heard it.

Time to push, and he crowned to his ears. I had to wait on the next contraction to push more, and then he delivered to the neck; but, his shoulder was STUCK on my pelvic bone. The doctor yelled for an emergency C-section but could not push him back in, so he had to come out. We all pushed. I pushed, mom and the nurse pushed on my belly, and the doctor pulled hard and we prayed again. All of a sudden, the shoulder released and he was here. His face was blue, his body white, limp and unresponsive.

While Marty watched the baby, the doctor worked with me. She began to explain that the baby may have a paralyzed arm because of nerve damage (from the shoulder dystocia). I prayed out loud this time, that he would move his arms "in the name of Jesus," and I claimed it (not knowing he wasn't breathing). Marty stretched out his arm over the baby and prayed, “What has been spoken as a handicap in his body, I now call a strength that makes him a success in the NFL" (I am glad God has a since of humor too). Suddenly, he began to breathe and then he cried with both arms moving. Praise the Lord !!!!!

My sweet mother began to thank the Dr. and the nurse for the great job they had done during the crisis, and the Dr.’s reply was: "I didn’t do this one, God did"……. Yes HE did.

There were about 15 people (Dr.'s and nurses) in the room at that point because of our crisis. Many of the nurses took special time to come back and hug me. They were so moved by what they had seen. They said that I was their hero for delivering him with no drugs and so much pain, because of the dystocia. The Dr. admitted that this had been an" OB's nightmare, and in 30 years one of the worst she has ever had." I think everyone there that day had experienced a Miracle of the Power, Mercy and Grace of God.

Psalm 3:3 But you are a shield around me, O Lord; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head.

Diapers, Diapers, Diapers

2009-03-15T14:41:00.006-05:00

On January 5th, we welcomed our precious little Elijah Ryken to the world. His entry into this world was a complete miracle, (I will write a whole post on that later)because we almost lost him at birth. Since then, we are getting adjusted to diaper duty all over again, after almost 11 years. When my oldest son was a baby he had problems with diaper rash all the time, no matter how often we changed him. We used every balm made, and we even made some. NOTHING worked!!! Since then we now realize there is chlorine, and other harsh ingredients in most of the diapers on the market. I believe that was our problem. Now, I have found Seventh Generation diapers, and so far we have had no reactions. They are environmentally friendly and no Chlorine. These diapers are more expensive than the other brands, and only found in certain stores. So, I went on a hunt. I soon found an incredible website, that has the diapers and many other items I love. It is my favorite site, and the customer service is fantastic. Now I order online, and they send the diapers, milk or any other items to your door. No more carrying those heavy items (baby in towe) home. Diapers.com is the best. I order most of the babie's supplies can from them.

If you want to place an order use the code SMSAVEBIG in the promotional code area at check out, and they will give you $10 off your first order. If you spend over $49 it will be shipped free. Did I mention, that you don't pay tax!!!!!! WOW. Now I save gas, save the environment, save money and the baby doesn't have diaper rash! I just love a good deal. So, check them out here.

HERE WE GO

2009-03-12T23:40:00.006-05:00

Time is short these days with a newborn, but I have had this nagging pull to start my own blog. I urged Marty to begin his and I thought I better not get left behind. I have spent most of the evenings' limited time getting the site up and presentable. I have some great shopping tips and websites to share so stay tuned. I am not the literary genius my husband is but I will try to convey my thoughts on life as a mother and wife of an artist.

So.......... Here We Go.........

HANDPRINTS

Nielsen’s Latest Social Media Report

Good to Laugh at Yourself! "Sunday is Coming"

Why Social Media?

Starbuck Happy Hour

Flood of Grand Ol Opry

More Flood Pictures and Videos

Nashville TN Flood of 2010

Free Cone Day at Ben and Jerry's

Starbuck Free Pastry

16 year old Creates Avatars to help HAITI

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

SAD

Look who's 10 months

Taco Bell Free Taco

Hannah's Prayer

Pumpkin Ice Cream

Starbucks VIA Taste Challenge

Baucus's Health Care proposal- "The Mark"

More Diapers

Drawing Me

You Version Live

Hope

Southern Living Magazine 1 year for $5.00

All over the map but I promise to land at home

Amazon gift cards

Walgreens 25 Free prints

Pier One Clearance

H1N1, The Fishy List and Lots to thinks about

Jack in the Box 2 Free Tacos Again August 11

7 Months!!!!

Jack in th Box Free Tacos Today

Enough Bad News

How To Hijack 'Every iPhone In The World'

How To Hijack 'Every iPhone In The World'

ORGANIZATIONAL CHART OF THE HOUSE DEMOCRATS’ HEALTH PLAN

Evian Babies

Walgreens Free Highlighters with coupon

Free Night Repair from Estee Lauder

A FREE Discussion-Part 2

P.F. Chang's 10% off thru 2009

Starbucks Free Pastry with Custom Coffee

A FREE Discussion-Part 1

Free Arby's Roast Burger with this coupon

Free Mocha Mondays at McDonald's

Free Baja Fish Taco from Long John Silvers

Halfling Birthday

Ultimate Freedom/Repost

Could He Be Weaning Off Milk??

Ben & Jerry's Buy One Get One Free Sundaes on Monday's

Sun, Sand, Water, Rollercoasters and Birthdays

Breaking News And The Voices Of Twitter

Free Family film festival!

Virginia or Bust

Fathers Day! TCBY or Duncan Donuts

Bargains

Skin Deep

Orange Julius FREE Light Smoothie

Arby's Wednesday Summer Deals

Walgreens $5 off $25 purchase

Beautiful Moments

Sonic has Free Root Beer Floats!

Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer

Did you Know?

American Idol

Old Navy $1 Flip Flops

Popchips

Designer Clothes Guilt

ALONE

A milk protein allergy and Reflux?

What's all the Hoopla?

Elijah The Miracle

Diapers, Diapers, Diapers

HERE WE GO