Hope you had a happy St Paddy's Day.

My St Patrick's day started on a bummer :(. I discovered that a bunch of the giveaways I had entered for some odd reason (maybe because its my Facebook email) were going to my Yahoo account that I never ever check. I could have cried. I don't even know how many I had won because after the first page of emails I deleted them because it was so discouraging. I did email a few of the more recent wins and see if it was too late. Thankfully one of them (bless her heart) still let me claim my win :). Then I spent the day fixing dinner and entering more giveaways. The night ended on a good note because I got the email saying I could still have the one win and also I got another email that I had won on another blog :). We had a good holiday although I was sure my daughter was going to get foundered on pot roast lol.

Here are my wins

Brys Edgewood Cakemaking kits from Pizzazzerie Entertain in Style- this is the one that let me claim my win after it was due. (What a sweet woman)

Robby Wash from Deal Sharing Aunt- I can't wait to try this out. It sounds awesome. No more detergent for a while. This is the one that I won today.

Here is what I fixed for dinner today.

Pot roast with carrots- my daughter is a fanatic for pot roast and we aren't corned beef fans.  Just threw a roast in the crock pot with some carrots.
Green mashed potatoes- I didn't check and was out of fresh herbs so I blended a few baby spinach leaves, ground parsley, butter and milk in the mixer. I used that as the milk in the potatoes. They turned a lovely pale green, not sure how well you can tell in the pictures. But at least it was natural and not the dyes from food coloring.
Green Beans- just out of a can but simmered in broth from the roast for a bit.
Rolls- store bought
Green punch- mixed lime sherbert with Sprite.
Lime Chiffon Pie-stir 8 oz Cool Whip, 6 oz lime yogurt and small box of lime Jello in a bowl and add to a graham cracker crust.  Chill 3 hours (you can use all sugar free low fat for less calories. Normally I do and no one can taste a difference.  I make this is a wide variety of flavors. Just match the yogurt to the Jello. I have used orange, strawberry or whatever. You can also just make the mix and chill in a bowl without the crust and its just as good for way less calories. This is such a versatile recipe and everyone always loves it. Its fast and easy. )

 

 

  

Saturday Stuff

Its a lovely warm day here in southern WV but I think the rain is coming. Haven't won an blog giveaways in a few days, bummer. I keep entering though. Getting ready to make a pie for St Patrick's day and then mix up a batch of laundry detergent.

I just won a free hair dye from L'oreal playing their instant win game on facebook.  I have  been needing to touch up my roots for sure.

Went shopping at Kroger yesterday and did pretty well. I got $95.37 worth of groceries for $41.39 I had a number of coupons to double and found a few clearance deals. I got a bottle of Method cleaner for only.20 after coupon. It was on sale for 1.20 and on their facebook page you can print a coupon for $1. I got a large can of Lysol disinfectant for 1.84 after coupon, it was on clearance also. We also got sample bags of the new flavor chips from Lay's. My daughter's favorite was the Cheesy Garlic Bread, They taste just like cheesy garlic bread she said.

I got a sample of Folger's coffee on Facebook also.

Signed up for a cute little plastic mug for St Paddy's day. It won't be here this year in time but I will put it up for next. Just got to the page. Just “Like” their page, fill in your information and put in the code green2013. Your mug should arrive in 2-3 weeks.

HPW #117 and mail call.

Well today's mail call was pretty good. I got the free record coasters I ordered from Black and Mild and the prize pack of Progresso soups that I won. See pictures at the bottom.  So glad today is Wednesday and prayer meeting church. I love going to Church.


1.  Do you play games of luck/chance for money? Have you ever played bingo for money?  Visited a casino?  Placed a bet on a horse? Bought a lottery ticket?
I don't but only because they don't interest me. Its not something that God has ever convicted me of. I am just too frugal to spend the money when there isn't a sure pay off. Gambling doesn't interest me much. I have bingo'ed and won while there and it was fun but just not me. The only casino I have been to was on a gambling boat and that was tons of fun but that was due to the boat not the gambling since that bored me. It was great fun being on deck watching dolphins and such. I have never bet on a horse but my bucket list includes a trip to the Kentucky Derby. A woman I worked for years ago used to go when she was younger and I try to always watch it. I have bought many a ticket.

2. Will you be preparing and/or dining on the traditional corned beef and cabbage meal this St. Patrick's Day?  Mashed-baked-hash browned-french fried...your favorite way to have potatoes?
We aren't corned beef people but we do usually have green food.  Such as mashed potatoes with herbs to make them green, shamrock punch, key lime whipped pie,

3. What's the last thing you felt 'green with envy' over?
A little article I saw on Facebook about the sweetest couple.  I want a love like that.

4. What's at the end of your rainbow?
 I answered this question yesterday on another meme. The home of the Leprechauns in a magic clover world with gold pieces all around.

5. March 12th marks the anniversary of the death of Anne Frank (June 12, 1929 -March, 1945).  Anne's diary spent detailing her time spent hiding from the Nazis ranks as one of the best selling books of all time.  Besides your blog, do you keep any sort of diary or journal? Was this a habit you developed as a child or is journaling something new for you?
I probably have a couple dozen journals I have started over the years. I write for a few months and then forget to. I do like to read back over them though. I started when I was a teen.

 6. What's an item in your home or closet that contains every color of the rainbow.
 I can't think of a single thing off the top of my head.

7.  Write a limerick with you as the subject. You can do it!! Just remember this is a family friendly blog...don't make me get out my wooden spoon. 
 There once was a girl
who loved watching mail unfurl
so she tried to win a prize
by trying blogs on for size
when she won she danced a twirl.

8.  Insert your own random thought here. 
I love getting wonderful things in the mail.

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch 84

QUESTIONS

1. Beth asks:What's your favorite movie of all times? The one you've seen multiple times.
2. Clairity says: Name three things that are permanent residents in your handbag or purse.
3. Red asks: What's the best way to your heart?
4. Mamaw wants to know: Do you like going to yard sales?
5. Cathy says: If you could slide down a rainbow, what do you think you'd find on the other side?

ANSWERS 

1. Fireproof is one of my all time favorites. I just love that movie. I could watch it daily. 

2. Reading glasses, mints, and a pen. 

3. Being a Christian, dependable and trustworthy. 

4. I love yard sales but I am not a negotiator so I don't haggle. I keep wanting to get back in the habit of going on Saturdays but they slip by me too fast.

5. the home of the Leprechauns in a magic clover world with gold pieces all around.

Biggest Loser and dieting

     I am so glad. The person I most want to win the biggest loser is one of the final 3 for sure. Danni lost the most percentage tonight and so she and Jeff are guaranteed spots in the finale. The 3rd spot is between Jackson and Joe, both of whom I really liked also. I would have preferred Jeff so I could vote against him. I just don't like him. I am so glad Gina is gone though. Every single week I have wanted her to be out. It was hard to choose who to vote for because I do like both Jackson and Joe. I voted for Joe though because I just like him. He hasn't been one of the more vocal members but he has been steady and dependable. I like his character a lot. He seems like a really great guy. But I still want Danni to win. She just seems so sweet and she reminds me of me. I wish I could have lost all my weight way back in my twenties. I have wasted over half my life being fat. There are so many things I haven't done. Pictures I am not in because I hate seeing me. I want so bad to change it. I am praying this time I want it bad enough to succeed. I am starting day 3 of a diet I found online at Ladies Home Journal. Its a 7 day startup diet for the biggest loser. So far I have lost   5 pounds. I didn't get to walk yesterday because I was on the road running a ton of errands (yes that means my car is fixed, Praise the Lord) but I have walked once or twice a day for 3 days now.


Today's mail brought me the book I ordered through Tyndale Rewards that I blogged about here. I also got an email and I won a coupon for a free box of Honey Bunches of Oats from A Big Little Family. Also I want to say I totally am in love with the Adora calcium supplements I won. Omgoodness, they are so sweet and creamy. They remind me of Dove or Godiva. They are really that good. They are not like that other calcium supplement I tried which was pretty good but these just are over the top. Plus they are only 30 calories for each one so I can have them and not feel bad about it. I literally have to force myself to only eat one though. Gosh they are good.

Noizy Bandz

 

I got a cool email about these little bracelets. They look like they would be so much fun. I know the grandbabies would love to have them. I so want the one thats for the military. Its Lee Greenwood singing Proud to be an American. I also love the one that sings you are my sunshine. I bet the boys would love the farting one lol.

Noizy Bandz Children's wristbands are musical, educational and a whole lot of fun! Watch your children light up as they hear the music and fun sounds coming from their wristbands that they control. First of its kind, expect more from your silicone bandz check out Noizy Bandz and hear the music at www.noizybandz.com Great for all ages and all occasions. Have a Birthday party give a musical Happy Birthday band instead of a card kids just go crazy for them. Check them out at www.noizybandz.com

Here is a coupon to get $1 off.  

I got this information from US Family Guide.Com and I will be getting one for free for providing you with this information and opportunity to buy one of these.

HPW

1. My real life friends came through with another question this week so thank you real life friends.  When you've eaten in a restaurant do you complete their comment card? Do you take online surveys highlighted at the bottom of store receipts?

If I got really good or really bad service I will fill out the card or if they offer me something free for doing it. Sometimes I feel out the online surveys but most times I don't. Yet I know a lot of people who have won simply because most people don't take the time so I always mean to do better.

2. The (US) ban on women in combat was lifted at the end of January.  It will probably be next year before specifics are worked out but it's been reported over 200,000 front line positions will eventually open up to women.  Your thoughts? 

I respect any woman who wants to be involved. I personally don't feel that the front line is any place for a woman but if thats what floats your boat go for it.

3. In looking back at all the blog posts you've written, what's your favorite post title?

I don't normally have cute fun titles since I am not very creative so I pick this one 8 yr old Explains God


4. What's worse-overly permissive parents or overly protective parents? Did your own parents lean toward the permissive or the protective category? If you're a parent where do you fall?

I feel that overly permissive parents are way worse. Children don't learn self control. I have seen way too many times the results. If you don't correct and train them while they are little you have no chance when they reach their teen years and beyond.  People are not doing their children any favors by letting them by with everything. Other children don't want to be their friends and family doesn't want to be around them. My parents were in the I could care less phase. My mother tended to be very strict but that was because she just didn't want to bother with anything not out of any desire to shape me life.  I am in the overprotective category myself.

5.  Candlelight-moonlight-firelight-bright lights in the big city....which one's your favorite?

 oh its so hard to choose. I love night and the moon when the sky is clear and you can see all the stars but I also love candlelight and I love fire. I remember playing around bonfires growing up and have never lost my thrill. I can't say I am a fan of big city lights simply because I don't like big cities. I do like to be outside of town up high and looking into the lights. They are awful pretty that way.


6. Dr. Seuss's birthday was celebrated on Saturday. What's a favorite book you remember (Seuss or otherwise) from your childhood?  Did books play an important role in your growing up years?  Explain.
  
I have always been a reader. I actually taught myself to read before school started then I taught all the kids in the neighborhood to read. But I can't really remember any books before I was in 5th grade. The first book I really remember was called My Enemy the Queen by Victoria Holt. I bought it at a school book fair and read it over and over for years. Looking at it now though I can't imagine why they had it at the school fair since in no way shape or form is it a children's book.

7. To quote Dr. Seuss...

"From there to here, and here to there, funny things are everywhere." 

from One fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish

Share something funny you've recently read, seen, or heard.

I actually  wrote a post earlier today that had 2 funny stories included. Check it out and pick which one is your favorite.


8.   Insert your own random thought here.

The big thing this week seems to be the Bible on the History Channel. I watched it Sunday night but wasn't that impressed. It was ok but I don't think it was factual enough for me. I was shocked later to talk about it with some friends to discover how little they actually knew about the Bible. I mean people who are church going born again Christians and they didn't know a lot of the stuff being portrayed. I don't know everything but I have read the book over and over again and remember most of the big stories.  Did you watch it, are you going to watch it, and how did you feel about it?

Freebies, Deals and Funnies

     Thankfully we didn't get the storm they were calling for. We barely got a dusting on the ground. I am so glad. I thought I would put a few things I found online this morning.

FREEBIES

1. Bits Dujour has another great program today. Its a photo watermark program so that people can't steal the pictures you put online. Easy Watermark Studio Pro 3.5

2. Amazon has a Kindle edition of  Faithfully Frugal: Spend Less, Give More, Live More (Sacred Mundane). 

3. 

DEALS

1 Extended!! Sam's Club Membership + + $20 gift card + $20 in food coupons ONLY $45 (Reg. $79.84)! http://bit.ly/13CC8WX

2. Amazon: The Hunger Games Trilogy Kindle Download – Only $5 (regularly $54)! Valid today only!

FUNNIES

This happened in WV and shut the highway down for a while. Can you imagine the poor mom's embarrassment. Lego Spill shuts down highway.

 (Credit: Eric McClain/North Central and Central WV Working Fires)

Here is an imagine a friend of mine posted for me on Facebook today. In case you are unaware of the history behind the picture I will post the news links. I think some people are just morons is all I have to say.

 

1. A second grader  little boy ate around the edges of his Pop Tart and formed it into a gun shape. He got suspended for this. 

2. The morons in the district actually offer counseling for the "victims" of the gun incident.

 

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch 83

Barely made it here again ;). They came and got my car got today to put the whole engine in. I am hoping it goes fast. I am tired of being home all the time. I need to get out and find a job. I got one of the prizes that I won by UPS today, the calcium chews I won here.  We are supposed to have another snow storm overnight into tomorrow. I am so tired of snow even though its beautiful.. 

QUESTIONS

1. Who has the most outgoing personality in your family?
2. How did you name your blog?
3. What's your favorite topping for ice cream?
4. Tell me about someone you know who would make a wonderful character for a book. Oops- please.
5. Please tell me up to three questions that you think I should ask on future farmhouse chats.

ANSWERS

1. That would probably be my youngest daughter. She talks to everyone and seems to know everyone. She just has that personality. I don't know where she gets it from. Her dad was completely antisocial and I appear very outgoing but I am actually really shy. I just make myself be outgoing because its easier than standing there not talking to anyone. 

2. My blog has changed names a couple times. This name really came about because of my love for all things butterfly and my dream of homesteading. If I ever manage a homestead, I shall call it Butterfly Acres :)

3. Lordy, I just love ice cream for its own sake. Although I do love caramel or strawberry sauce on it. Sometimes I sprinkle Nestle Quik on it, thats pretty good too. Its really had to go wrong when you start with ice cream lol.

4. My oldest daughter. I can honestly see her as the star of a book. She has a healthy self esteem and likes to think the world revolves around her :)

5. oh dear, I haven't been a follower that long so I don't know and I don't want to repeat. 

     A. Do you have an old family favorite recipe and what is the story behind it.

     B. How did you choose the names of your children

     C. What did you love most about school. 

Sticky Password 6.0

    A few months ago, my cousin sent me a link for a site called Bits DuJour that offered software programs for free or reduced prices. I have gotten quite a lot of great programs from them. They offer an email newsletter that comes daily and shows whats available that day and how much it is. I won't lie, so far I have only gotten the free programs. I like free :).  Today's software is a program called Sticky Password 6.0. I read the reviews and they are mixed but mostly in favor of. Its a program that stores your passwords to log in to websites. It reminds me of that one program R****** that lets you store 10 free but then you have to pay for any more. I don't pay for software so I have only ever used the 10 free. This program (today only ) is the full version and stores unlimited passwords. It is normally $29.99 but today its FREE.  Basically you download the shareware program and they email you the registration code so you can activate it fully.

Losing Weight

WEIGHT LOSS

     I did absolutely terrible  in the month of February on my diet and exercise plan. I actually gained back all that I had lost in the month of January and that was a big let down. Part of it stems from not having a car to get to the store. I had to send others to the store for me all month because I had no way there so basically my daughter just blowed our months grocery budget on junk.  Then its been so cold that there was just no way I was walking outside. If I had my car I could get to the park and at least get some exercise. I live on a very big hill and it kills my knees to walk down the hill and goodness knows I am so out of shape, I can't make it back up the hill. I tried doing some exercise routines in the house but I don't know if it was because of my fibro or what but every time I even did 5 minutes of exercise I spent the next 24-36 hours in bed in horrible pain :(. 

     I seriously need a job so I can afford to go to the doctor to see what's going on. I am hoping though now that spring surely is on the way and my car going to be fixed that I can walk. I can walk better than any other exercise, I feel. I have made my shopping list and planned a week's worth of meals already. I am just going to view this past month as a lesson learned and move forward and keep trying.   

Cucumber hint

     Here is a tip I found online and proved to be true this month. We bought some cucumbers on Feb 7th and I just ate the last one tonight and it was still just good as when we bought it. It wasn't mushy, had no bad spots, was crisp.  What you do is wrap each individual cucumber in a paper towel or  2 if thats what it takes to wrap it. Then after wrapping all the cucumbers individual put them in a plastic bag (store bag) and put them in the frig. I was amazed how well it worked. I have bought cucumbers and got them home and within 2 days they were bad and had to be thrown out. I wish I had thought to take a picture of it so you could see how fresh it stayed.

Tyndale Rewards program

I love reward programs and belong to quite a few. Here is one that I just joined but already know I will love. Anything that brings me closer to God is a win in my book.

Earn Free Books with Tyndale Rewards

Tyndale Rewards earn points to get hard copy books and Bibles for free. If you click on the link above and sign up you’ll get 25 points (and I’ll get 10 for you signing up).
You can then start earning more points right away by doing a variety of things like signing up for the birthday club(you get a free gift on your birthday), subscribing to an email devotional, taking a 2 minute survey, etc. I earned 100 points in about 6 minutes  You can take a look at the current rewards catalog here. You don’t need a credit card. Just sign up and start earning your freebies! They have a program where you review their books and can earn an extra 50 points a month. Since I love to read, I don't see a problem with that. My only problem is whether to order something now or save for another reward. Ok, I couldn't stand it and had to order a book today haha, can't wait to get started reading it.  I look forward to earning a lot of free books with this program and getting closer to God.

Free Computer Software and some inspiration

My children and I love computer games. I usually play some game daily and I know they do. I love Pogo and usually get a year's free subscription from MyCokeRewards because I am too frugal to pay for.  Today there is a free game from Game Giveaway of the Day is called Pet Show Craze. Its not my kind of game but my oldest loves games like that. I do like time management games but just not this kind. Its a good game though and its free today only. When you download it, you have to activate it today or it won't work.  I also noticed they have a really cool computer locking program offered today on the Giveaway of the Day side of the site. Its called XUS PC Lock and it lets you create a lock for your computer that is a shape you have to draw with your mouse instead of the usual password type. Of course if you forget what shape you picked you won't be able to unlock the computer and that would be real bad :(. I don't ever lock mine but I can see this would be cool if you did have a need to lock your computer.

You will noticed I managed to get the Twitter button on my blog finally.

Here is a really inspiring story I got in my email today, that I want to share with you.

Lead Me to the Cross

It's been a cold and snowy day here in southern WV. I am starting to be quite tired of the snow. My car was supposed to be worked on Tuesday to get the engine replaced but there is supposed to be yet another major snowstorm coming our way that day. I am hoping it doesn't slow down the repairs much. I am so tired of not having a car. Basically I spent the day surfing the Internet and talking to friends on the phone. Tried to make some changes to the blog that did not work out at all so went back to the original template. My next goal is to put up something so you can follow me on twitter.

 I have given up on Amy at Then Sings My Soul coming back to do memes. I don't know what's going on in her life but she has apparently lost her drive for blogging right now. So for now I don't have a Saturday

Mail Call

 MAIL CALL

Well the mail was really good today. I got my state tax refund check so can afford the final part on my car. I also got a feather stylus I ordered from Deal Fisher. It was free and shipping was free. I heard about the deal from Hunt4Freebies back in January.

RECIPE

I made the Canyon Casserole I posted about yesterday. The only difference between mine and Christy's was the I put the cheese in the casserole itself instead of the cornbread and I used McCormicks' cheesy taco seasoning. We just like the taste of it better. Also I was making it from memory and didn't read her recipe before hand so I didn't cook the hamburger ahead of time. I just mixed everything in the bowl and kept mixing until it was completely mixed. Then I baked it for about 45-50 minutes. It was completely cooked.  The casserole turned out great. My oldest loved it and said she wants it again. She normally doesn't like cornbread but she said the way the juices soaked up into it was great. This will be a repeat recipe for us. Here is what it looked like when done.

March 1st

IN LIKE A LION

Well today is March 1st.  Growing up in school I remember we always were taught that if March comes in like a lion it will go out like a lamb or vice versa. Its cold and snowy here in southern WV today so I am going with it being a lion, so hopefully we are seeing the end of winter and March will go out like a lamb :) So far my March is going great since I got an email that I won from Shawn Ann's World.  I won Adora Calcium Supplements, I can't wait to try them out. I love chocolate and these are good for me.  Thats my second win of this year. A good start to a month I am dreading. I used to love March, it was my second favorite month because all the flowers start to bloom and the trees bud. Now my mind is constantly screaming thinking that this month will make 1 horrible dreadful year since my brother's accident :(.

I just heard from Kathi Macias  that today is National Peanut Butter Lover's Day and National Pig Day so here is a recipe I found to celebrate with.  This isn't what we are having since I was unaware of the holiday.

Peanut Butter Glazed Ham from Paula Deen  If you want to combine the 2 flavors in once dish :)  I love ham about any way you fix it but I haven't ever thought of combining it with peanut butter. I do like peanut chicken though so it might be good.



This probably will already be gone by the time you read this but I got one.   A free Fiji Straw , its available to the first 2000. Not sure why its special straw but I shall see.

Odds and Ends for the Last Day of February

Great news, I ordered the engine for my car this morning. It should be here by Monday or Tuesday they said. I also found a friend who I know is great with cars and he agreed to put it in for 350. I am so glad. God is so good. Thought I would post some of the stuff I did today online.

Facebook

Sample of Alma Legend Billion Hair Potion.  this is a Facebook Sample

Win an electric tiller-  I want to plant a garden this year so this would be great. Also a Facebook page

Canyon Casserole- This is one of my favorite cooking sites and this recipe sounds great. I plan to make it tomorrow night for dinner.

Final Hodgepodge for February

Its hard to believe its already the end of February. Today would have been my favorite cousin's birthday. He was killed in 1983. Hes been gone longer than he was here and yet he is still so vivid in my mind. I can still see him the last time I saw him alive. He was laying on the couch at his place with his daughter laying on his chest and he was watching Fall Guy. For years I wouldn't watch Fall Guy because it hurt to picture it. I think of all the things I would have said if I had known that time would be for all time. What words would you say to your loved ones today if  you knew this was the last time?  Ok on to the hodgepodge.

1. When were you last facing an ocean?  In ONE word describe how you felt when you faced that ocean.

I can't remember the exact year but I think it was probably 2000. My aunt, her husband and another aunt had went to Ocean Isle Beach in NC and I went with them. We stayed at the Islander Inn which I don't know about it today but years ago it was very nice. One of my favorite things was the heated indoor pool. It was actually March when we went so it was too cold to swim except in the heated pool.  I used to get up at sunrise to walk the beach and watch the sun come up over the ocean.   Awestruck is the one word that described how I felt. 

2. What are three sounds you hate to hear?

Fingers on a blackboard sound, yelling as in arguing, constant droning of the tv.  

3. This question comes to you courtesy of some real life friends. Hi real life friends! When you shop for clothes do you try everything on in the store or do you buy, try on at home, and then return what you don't like or what doesn't fit?

I know this isn't natural for women as they say but I hate to shop so I will almost always try on the clothes there just so I don't have to make another trip back. If its something I buy all the time and I am sure of  the size and look then I won't bother. 


4.  February 26th is National Pistachio Day...are you a fan of the little green nut?  Do you use them in cooking and baking or prefer to eat them right out of the shell?

I have never tried a pistachio. I used to be engaged to a man who's dad loved them and we would buy them for him all the time but I just never tried them. I have IBS so nuts aren't my friends. Years ago I tried pistachio pudding and it just didn't appeal to me so that probably figured into my not wanting to try pistachios. 

5. When did you last have to compromise with someone? Were you happy to reach a compromise or slightly irritated it came to that?

Honestly nothing comes to mind. 

6.  Have you ever written a letter to an elected official?  Did you get a response?

Yes and yes. 

7.  We 'March' into a new month at the end of the week...what is something on your March calendar guaranteed to make you smile?

March is my least favorite month now and I am actually dreading it but prior to last year, I would have said that just knowing the little bubs such as crocus or tulips bloom around here in March. And of course this year Easter is in March. 

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I am so ready for spring. I want to see some signs of spring soon. I am tired of winter. 

Chats on the Farmhouse Porch 82

 




I think its been 3 weeks since I last participated, it seems like once you miss you get lost for a while.  Its a cold rainy day here in southern WV.  The mail only brought a sample for some Pantene Age Defy shampoo and conditioner plus a coupon on the same. Who knew your hair suffered from aging too.

QUESTIONS 1. Is there a room in your home that you'd like to redecorate or remodel? 2. Did you watch the Oscars? 3. How many pair of blue jeans do you own? 4. What was your favorite toy as a child? 5. If you could visit a country in Europe, which would you choose?  

ANSWERS 

1. My whole house needs remodeled but I am waiting to start until I get it rewired., No sense putting in walls then having to cut around them to rewire. 

2. Nope, I don't really watch tv or movies much so not real big on the Oscars. I doubt I watched a single movie last year that was nominated for anything.

3.  Probably 10 or so. At one point I lived in blue jeans but sadly most jobs require business casual anymore. 

4. I really only had a couple of toys as a child and my favorite was a stuffed Winnie the Pooh. I still have him in my bedroom today. 

5. Ireland. I have always wanted to go there and see the green, the stones and hear the people. My ancestors are from there so that might explain the pull. But I would also like to do the whole back pack around Europe and see everywhere but if I can only go to one place then it would be Ireland.

I am a winner

I love love love winning giveaways. I started entering giveaways again and I already won something. :)  I won a ProgressOh! Gift pack from Stephani that contains

• 2 cans of Progresso® soup
◊ Light Creamy Potato with Bacon & Cheese ( I know I will just love this one, its got cheese and bacon)
◊ Light Chicken Pot Pie Style (I have been wanting to try this flavor)
• Cosmetic Bag
• Compact Mirror and Brush

 I can't wait to get my gift pack. Thanks so much to Stephani for having the giveaway and I am so glad I won. I feel bad for her though because her giveaway got overlooked and no one else entered so that made me win by default but I feel good for me to win regardless :)

Campbell's Slow Cooker Soup Review and coupon offer

I got a container of  Campbell's Tuscan-Style Chicken & White Bean with Asiago Cheese, Thyme slow cooker soup along with a pair of the ugliest socks ever. Odd thing was they were so soft and comfortable :). They go all the way up to the knees. Its been years since I wore knee socks. I loved wearing them even though I am still not sure about the pattern :).  The soup was very good and didn't taste like cheap canned soup at all. There was lots of herb pieces and the beans were divine.  Thyme is a healing herb so during this time of everyone getting sick I would recommend you try this out.  I am big on the healing power of herbs. I plan to buy several of these and put in my 72 hour emergency kit. I want to try some of the other varieties to see if they are as good. I love these grown up soups.  I always derive comfort from hot soups (guess all those Campbell's commercials as a child) and think during any emergency these would be great to eat.  If you click here you can get a $1.00 off coupon to try these soups yourself. Here is a picture I took of the soup on a bowl. See all those lovely herbs.

• For more information about Campbell’s Slow Kettle Style Soups click here
• Follow Campbell’s Slow KettleStyle Soups on Twitter here @SlowKettle

**Disclosure: Information and products provided by Campbell's Slow Kettle Soups and Smiley 360. I received products described above, including a few coupons for product too. All opinions are my own.
 If you want to join and get your own products to sample and review, sign up here. 

Kellogg's Friends and Family

I try to join as many reward programs as possible so we can save every dime possible. Here is one I joined  a few months ago. So far I only redeem points for coupons but they offer some great coupons. The only thing that annoys me about this is that when I go to the page they already show my name and how many points I have but I can't enter new codes until I log in.

Kellogg's Family Rewards is a fun and easy way to earn rewards from the brands you already enjoy and love..

How does it work?
1) Look for 16-digit codes printed inside specially marked Kellogg’s® cereals, Eggo® products, Pop-Tarts® toaster pastries, Cheez-It® crackers and Keebler® cookies and crackers.
2) Enter codes and earn points at KelloggsFamilyRewards.com. If you’re not a Kellogg's Family Rewards member, it’s free and easy to sign up.
3) Collect and redeem points for fun items in our rewards catalog.

And to sweeten the deal – Each time you enter a code, you’ll automatically be entered for a chance to win $200 in free groceries from Kellogg. One winner is selected daily.*
What’s in the Rewards Catalog?
From children’s books and digital downloads to sporting equipment and sweepstakes entries, there’s something for everyone in the Rewards Catalog:
• Coupons, Discounts and Gift Cards
• Sweepstakes and Instant Wins
• Books, Music and Magazines
• Electronics, Toys and Games
• Housewares and Kitchen Gadgets
• Apparel and Gear
• Donations and Charity Support (Beginning April 2013)


How do I earn extra points?
Bonus points are a fun way to earn rewards faster. Kellogg’s Family Rewards™ members can enter special bonus codes and participate in promotions that allow them to earn additional points or rewards for entering codes from Kellogg’s® products.

Bonus Codes: Answering polls or questions within Kellogg’s Family Rewards™ emails or performing special actions (such as liking certain Facebook pages or commenting on recipes)  examples of ways to earn bonus codes. But hurry – bonus codes are valid for a limited time and have varying expiration dates.

TO GET STARTED: Members who’ve read the "How It Works" page will discover this free bonus code HOWITWORKS20PNTS.


Promotions and Bonus Points: The Kellogg’s Family Rewards™ program supports many other Kellogg code-based programs and promotions, allowing consumers additional ways to earn
rewards or points for purchasing special products.


What are some other benefits?

•  SAVINGS! Kellogg’s Family Rewards™ members receive weekly emails with coupons, product news and promotion updates. Members can also log in at KelloggsFamilyRewards.com and print exclusive coupons for Kellogg’s® products and other brands/goods at any time.
•   Promotions: Members are the first to know about promotions and sweepstakes. Here are some great promotions happening now:
•   Get a collector’s wristband & share breakfast with kids in need
•   Kellogg’s™ Share Your Breakfast Coupon Savings
•   Recipes: Find delicious new ways to serve up family-favorite products.

Here is a new code to help you get started : 2013KFRBonusCode- Points: 50

What's good today

Its a beautiful sunny day here in southern West Virginia. It is supposed to get to the mid 40's. Yesterday it was in the lower 50s. I hope this warmer weather is here to stay and its the end of winter. I love the snow on the trees but hate being cold.  I have prayerfully found an engine for my car. Its at a junkyard about 2 hours from here so I submitted a request to see how much shipping would be to my house. Hopefully it will all work out and I can have it be Friday and can get it put in my car. I am so tired of not having a car. Then I am going to the local temp agency and see if they can find me some work. I need some sort of income.

OFFERS
Game Giveaway of the day is called Rolling Spells- This offer ends at midnight on Feb 24th 2013. I downloaded it and activated it but haven't played yet.


My Favorite Ebooks of the Day (these were all still free at Noon)
The Cat Manual- saw this ebook offer and had to get it since we have 3 cats. Its a book of humor.

Smitten at First Sight- this is a Christian contemporary romance book.

Adventures in Funeral Crashing- this book is geared towards YA but I read it and really enjoyed it. It was well written and I liked the characters a lot.

12 Types of Chickens that Lay Lots of Eggs- I always dream of homesteading so enjoy books related to. My favorite chickens are the Buff Orpingtons because they have the feathers on their legs like little boots.

Fancy Gap- this is probably more intense than I normally read because its a thriller and I am a coward but I got it because I have driven through the Fancy Gap VA area so many times. Its a horrible section on Interstate 77 if its foggy. I have seen traffic tied up for hours there. There are always multiple car pile ups because you can't see a foot in front of you sometimes.

Courageous -I can't wait to read this one. I still haven't gotten to see the movie but the movie was created by the same folks as Fireproof. This is a Christian book about men who are heroes and dads. Speaking of heroes, my exhusband became a hero this week. His neighbor's house caught on fire about midnight and he was the person who woke them up otherwise they would have died. The house was already pretty engulfed. Please pray for them as they are elderly, the man has cancer and it was a total loss. It is hard to reconcile my image of my ex to him being anyone's hero though.

Couple of recipes

Since I have so much free time not being on Facebook, I have been wasting time on Pinterest :). I have been trying some of the recipes and just collecting information. So I thought I would share my results. One recipe is edible and one is a toiletry item. I have been trying to use more natural products around the house for cleaning and personal care. I just got paid for a survey I did and used my earnings to order me some more lavender eo and oregano oil online.


Crock Pot Lasagna - I wish I would have gotten to take pictures but I made the lasagna, it got done and I tried a little bowl and then went to bed. I woke up and my daughter and her boyfriend (mostly him) had eaten the entire crock pot full so I would so this was a good recipe :).

20 0z spaghetti sauce ( I semi homemade make my own)
9-12 noodles
32 0z cottage cheese
1.5 cups of mozzarella cheese

I already had the sauce made and in the freezer so I just thawed it. I mixed the cheeses in a bowl. I broke the noodles up into about 2 inch squares. I layered sauce, noodles, cheese finishing with noodles on top then poured some sauce on it to cook in. I cooked it on low and it was done in a just about 3 hours. It wasn't as pretty with the layers as oven lasagna but it tasted the same. We currently have no oven due to remodeling the kitchen and so this was a good substitute but honestly if I had an oven I would prefer it in the oven so it would be better layered.



Home made deodorant- background story is that about 15 yrs ago I had a horrible reaction to store bought deodorant. Up till that time I just used whatever I had a coupon for. I don't know what caused it, if it was the deodorant, or something else in my life but all the skin on my arm pits became a painful raw mess. It was summer and sweat was horrible. It took months to heal, I had to walk around with my arms up most of the time. I had no insurance so couldn't go to a dr. When it finally healed I used those crystal deodorants but they didn't help with odor. Finally I tried Dove simply because it was hypoallergenic. And for all these years thats all I would use. I was afraid to try anything else. Trust me not a repeatable experience. I have been seeing all sorts of recipes on pinterest on how to make your own. All the recipes are basically alike so here is what I finally mixed together. I have used this for a week now and its awesome, no underarm odor even the next day. No sweating problems. Not sure how it will be this summer but so far loving it and best of all no reaction.


1/4 c baking soda
1/4 c cornstarch (next time I plan to try arrowroot because its even better for your skin but I had cornstarch in the house)
4 tbsp coconut oil
5 drops lavender oil (this is one of my favorite healing herbs)

I mixed the baking soda and the cornstarch until it looked blended, then I used a fork to mix in the coconut oil. Finally I added the lavender oil and mixed it all up. Mine ended up about like a salve consistency. Its solid but when you run your fingers in it there is an oil feel but you can also feel the dryness of the powder ingredients. I just get a little bit on the fingers and use it that way. Like I said, I have had complete coverage so far. No odor by nightfall or the next morning nor a sweating problem. I really like it and plan to make again. My next batch is going to also include a few drops of oregano oil.

This is how it ended up looking, I used an old butter bowl to store it in ;)

Another thing I tried this past week was the detox bath. Everyone keeps talking about how wonderful they are. I have had a terrible backache for 2 weeks now, not sure whats causing it as the pain comes and goes. I do know its a muscle pain though and not my kidneys. So anyway I thought I would give this a try. It was awesome. I was able to get out the tub and sleep for the first time in ages. Before I was in so much pain I couldn't sleep because every time I moved I cried.

2 cups epsom salts
2 cups baking soda
2 tsp ground ginger


I added everything to a tub of hot water, I also dipped a really thin towel in the tub and put in my back like a super hero cape :). Then I just soaked for about 20-30 minutes. Honestly I don't know how detoxed I was but I felt pretty good so thats all that counted. I will be repeating this at least once a week.

Friday with no memes

This is the second week I haven't participated in any memes. I have been going through some things in my mind and just haven't felt like answering questions. Quick background, one of my former sister in law's sent me a message on Facebook wanting to know why I had a picture of her son on there. I told her my youngest wanted some picts of the family since shes currently in Texas and doesn't have any of family pictures. My sister in law responds back that as a I know her ex hadn't had any contact with the kids in over 28 yrs and they didn't want me posting pics. At first I was very very hurt. One because the picture was one from when they were together so if he wanted it he would have it, the boy is now full grown and she, the son and her daughter from another marriage all post pics of the boy and their pages aren't private so anyone that wanted could see them so it was like it was just me they didn't want to post. I had for the past 29 yrs thought of this woman as a friend, not a close friend but a friend none the less. I deleted the picture, blocked her from me on Facebook then I realized that I was tired of two faced people who aren't really friends. I have over 240 Facebook friends. Now some of them are actually friends obviously but some are people I only casually know and to be honest if we passed on the street we probably wouldn't speak to me. So I deactivated my Facebook. After a couple of days I felt way better. I didn't see it at the time but I was on overload. I don't really care what every has for dinner, when they are going shopping, cleaning house, etc. Facebook was great for catching up with people but honestly there is just too much sharing. I don't want to be in the drama of everyone's lives. I have people that are forever hinting this or that but never say who or what they mean. Now I don't miss it at all. I do miss the savings blogs but consider it a small price to pay for being free of the cycle.
Part 2 of the photo drama, - I was thinking in my mind how pathetic it was that my sister in law still has this drama going considering that my ex brother in law has moved on and honestly could care less. He isn't trying to get pictures of the kids, he isn't keeping up with what she does. Shes hanging on to a man that has already moved on. Then God used that to show me that I was guilty of the same thing. My ex boyfriend broke up with me over 2 years ago but I still have been holding on. No one wants to be the pathetic person so once I finally saw the light I knew it was time to let it all go. Yes, I still love him and probably always will. Its hard to stop loving someone when the only flaw you can think of is that they didn't love you. Its easier when you can look at how they didn't fit. But regardless, he didn't love me and now I am just letting go and letting God as they say :). I love how if we just let Him, God can use everything in our lives to help us out. There is a line in Genesis 50:20 that basically says "you meant it to hurt me, but God used it for good." My sister in law hurt my feelings but God used it for my own good. I may someday go back to Facebook but right now I can't really see it. I feel so much better emotionally without dealing with everyone's stuff.

Year of the Snake

This is the year of the Snake according to the Chinese. I don't follow any form of astrology but I just like the Chinese New Year celebrations :) I read an interesting tidbit in Family Circle magazine that said if a snake is in the house means your family will not starve. I'm sorry but I would prefer to starve. I am absolutely terrified of snakes. I freeze if I even think one is near by. I just don't understand the people who want them as pets. I know when the Bible refers to snakes it is referring to the devil but as far as I am concerned head crushed under the heel is great for all snakes.
We love an excuse to party and any new year is a fresh start as far as I am concerned. So we will be having a party. I thought I would share some links I found with you. The Chinese festival lasts for 15 days.

Menu

Pomegranate Fizz Mocktail
Egg Drop Soup- My daughter wants egg drop soup
Ham and Pineapple Fried Rice- I love shrimp fried rice but this year we are going to try ham and pineapple fried rice. Pineapples are for prosperity.
Cream Cheese Egg Rolls
Orange Chicken with Sesame Noodles
Clemetine Cake Going to substitute mandarins for the clementines.
I am going to cheat and buy fortune cookies. :)

Activities

Asian Folding Fan-  I loved making paper fans when I was a child, as a matter of fact I have a bunch of folding fans now. One in my purse, one in my desk and one by my bed. I always feel like a southern belle when I carry one :).
Red Envelopes- going to put in a few lucky coins
Goldfish Kites- I love kites and I know goldfish are good luck symbols in China
Lanterns- You can't have New Year's without lanterns.
Snake Craft you can't have a year of the snake without a snake

Odds and Ends

Traditions and Superstitions

A traditional Chinese Song



And another chinese song

Superbowl Review

Well the Superbowl is over and it was a wild ride in the second half. We had a new record set 109 yard touchdown and then the power outage. I swear they used to the power outage to sneak the 49er's in the game because the team that played after the outage was not the same team that was in the game before. I totally hated the half time show. Everyone talked about what a great dancer Beyonce was but my issue is she is a singer not a dancer. She didn't sing, if she would have had a live mike and clapped her hands there would have been noise. I feel the singing was pre-recorded.  My favorite part as always was the commercials and here are my favorites. Congratulations to the Baltimore Ravens, great game.


Most Touching




Funniest was a tie for me. I loved the Taco Bell retirement home but the Tide stain commercial was too good.






Best Tribute.




Best Music- this was my favorite song back in the day.



Best Use of a Former Superbowl Winner



LOL Moment



Worst Commercial of the entire show




And not to forget Twitter

Most Ironic Tweet of the Game

But you know living in WV I have to put my own spin on the power outage

SuperBowl Sunday

My team didn't make it to the Superbowl this year. I live in hope. Go Cowboys. So when my team isn't playing I watch for the commercials and for the half time show which is going to be Beyonce this year. I am not really a fan of hers though. Some of my favorite commercials are by Budweiser even though I don't drink. They prereleased one of their commercials this year. I loved it even though it made me cry because it was so sweet.  




Menu

Cocktail Weiners
Ham Rollups - we make ours with just cream cheese and ham.
Boneless Hot Wings - I don't eat wings but I do eat the chicken nuggets from Applebees
Fruit with Cream Cheese Marshmallow dip- You just blend one brick of cream cheese with 8oz of marshmallow fluff and serve with fruit
Cheese Ball and crackers
Ham and Cheese Mini Sandwiches
Football Deviled Eggs- these are super cute, made to look like footballs.

Groundhogs Day

Today is Groundhog's Day. I remember thinking how much fun it was as a child but now I barely pay attention. I found this cute little video and wanted to share it. Still missing Amy from Then Sings My Soul. I sent her an email but never heard back. I sure do hope everything is ok with her and her family.  Another one of the bloggers missed the meme so much she created one to fill in the gap. I tried to put both linkups on one line but it didn't work out for me :).  My offering for this week is under the groundhog video.

I was privileged a couple years ago to hear this duo in person. Love that its a father and son group. The father used to sing with Gold City.

Friday Memes

This Sunday is Superbowl Sunday and Cathy has chosen funny commercials from past superbowls as the theme.

 
the babies are so cute in this one


This one makes me laugh everytime.







1. What is your favorite book to read with your kids?
My girls are grown now but we loved The Poky Little Puppy, One Fish Two Fish,  The Monster at the end of the Book, and Horton Hears a Who. 

2. After having kids, what body part has changed the most?
Everything. I only gained 5lbs the whole time I was pregnant either time but within six weeks of giving birth I had gained 50 lbs. I don't know what that was about. 

3. Would you ever go back to college? What would you study?
Right now I have no desire to go back but if I did I would study something impractical like archeaology. 

4. How do you close a phone call? Bye, bye bye or other?
   Bye or I'll talk to you later.

5. What is the one food that will always be your "cheat food" on a diet?
its not a food but Coke. I don't care what horror stories they tell about what all is in it, I grew up on Coke and when I feel bad nothing beats a ice cold Coke.


</"/>

1. I was probably the only kid in the world who thought little people lived under the porch I used to put doll furniture and stuff out all the time for the littles. 

2.  Concord grape juice is my favorite juice

3. I never thought I would be about to change a diaper until I had my own kids
 
4. I have always wanted to travel the US in an RV  and see every state but I can't afford it. 

Thankful Thursday 1-31-13

As usual, I have much to be thankful for. I can't believe its the end of January already. Time seems to go so much faster now that I am older.

1. I am thankful for my friend Debbie. - Debbie is the kind of friend the Bible means when it says there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. She has done more for me than anyone in my family. I have had to stay with her in the past, she is the person who helps me when no one else will. An example would be that this trailer desperately needs remodeled and insulation added. Even with the 3 space heaters that were driving my electricity up it wasn't warm. Debbie worried and worried about it being so cold. Finally she remembered her aunt had an old kerosene heater. She brought the heater, took me to get a wick and kerosene.

2. The kerosene heater- see above answer. It is so much warmer in here now. Before next winter I have to get this place worked on.

3. Church- I got to go to church this past Sunday. I so miss it now that I don't have a car to go. But someone came to get me this past week and I got to go and talk to everyone and hear God's word preached.