Mama Pajama

Music Making

Do you like to dabble in writing your own music?  Whether you're into classical, jazz, or rock, Finale PrintMusic music composition software is what you need to help make the process easy and fun.  Making Music can be so rewarding!  Finale PrintMusic composition software is geared towards educators, musicians, and composers.  The creators of this software realized that you don't want to pay for features that you don't really need. But, they also know that you want professional quality software.  This is why PrintMusic is the perfect product for you. This software has everything the casual composer needs to easily compose music!

No Soup Sleep For You!!!

Last night Cameron decided that we really didn't need to go to sleep until midnight.  Plus, we really did need to read all 21 books in his basket.  Then, he woke up crying at 5am.  So, after his bottle, I thought we'd all go back to sleep.  Oh no.  Those books are too enticing.  So, we read them all again. He stayed awake until just now. He's crashed out on the floor near his bedroom.  I guess he really wanted to be a nocturnal bat instead of a pirate for Halloween.  This evening we're going to my mom's house so that he can be with his cousin, "the girl pirate."  Mommy just might let Meme and Daddy deal with Mr. Nonap Crankypants.

Grandfather Clocks

When I was growing up, my best friend's grandmother had a beautiful grandfather clock.  I used to love hearing it chime on the hour. My in-laws just bought a grandfather clock last year, and my son just loves it! His eyes light up when he hears the melodious chimes!  As soon as we put him down at their house, we know exactly what he's headed for!

I would love to get one for our home. In our foyer, we have a perfect spot for a grandfather clock.  I already know exactly which one I like best. It is the Howard Miller Fallsworth II Grandfather Clock. I really love the unique style and intricate leaf embossings that are on the arch.    The finish is scrubbed oak, which would match perfectly with the small table we have in our entryway.  The illuminated case shows off the brass weights and the beautiful pendulum. I like grandfather clocks with the Westminster Chime the best. What's really neat about this one is that you can choose for it to automatically turn off at night.

There are so many things to look for and learn about when you buy a grandfather clock. I learned something very interesting about the term Tempus Fugit. Some people think it is a brand name for a clock, but it is actually a Latin term for "Time Flies."  It is often printed on not only grandfather clocks, but all kinds of time pieces.  I hope that we can get this grandfather clock one day, and eventually pass down this heirloom to our children. 

Happy Halloween!

I have been holding on to these pictures for quite a while. My husband sent them to me in an e-mail about a month ago. I can finally share them! Here's to a Happy and Safe Halloween to all my blogging buddies out there. I have really enjoyed the interaction with all of you!

Vacation Time

Wouldn't you just love to get away right now?  I'd love to take a romantic little trip with my husband.  We've always wanted to visit Cape Cod or Martha's Vineyard. If we ever do make plans to visit that area, I would love to stay in a beautiful home. WeNeedaVacation.com is a great place to find the best Martha's Vineyard vacation rentals. You can search through thousands of beach houses and cottage listings on the Cape, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket.  They also have rental listings in Florida.  I would love to stay at one of their luxury condos in Sarasota.  Be sure to check out their summer photo contest as well! 

Thursday Thirteen #12

Chris and I love using Netflix. We received a one year plan as a Christmas gift from my parents.  Basically we get to always have a movie to watch.  Since we hardly ever go out to the movies anymore, Netflix is perfect for us. We can take turns picking out movies.   What's really cool to me is that I can find out so much information about the movie before I select it.  Also, when I'm in a video store I tend to just grab something so that I can go home.  I can never remember the older movies that we missed when they were new releases.  Do you use Netflix or Blockbuster on-line? 

Last 13 Picks on Netflix (click on the titles for IMDB information)

1. The Killing Fields (1984)

2. The Verdict (1982)

3. Witness (1985)

4. Next (2007)

5. Disturbia (2007)

6. Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006)

7. Taxi: Season 3 - Disc 1 (1980)

8. Good Night and Good Luck (2005)

9. Raging Bull (1980)

10. City of God (2002)

Next we'll receive:

         11.  Blood In Blood Out (1993)

         12. World Trade Center (2006)

         13. The Fog of War (2003)

Any thoughts about any of these? I'd love to hear them!  Happy Halloween!

Safety First

If you work in construction, you know all about the safety supplies that are needed. My dad worked for the railroad, and he also needed lots of protective gear.  Looking for a place to find hard hats or ear plugs for your business? All In Safety.com has the best in industrial, safety, and construction supplies. You can find everything from yellow caution tape  to respiratory protection gear on this site. You can also find things such as protective boots and back supports. They have a giant distribution center, where everything is ready and waiting to be shipped directly to you!  All In Safety.com is ready to help you consolidate your purchases for one stop on-line shopping. 

Bloggers With Integrity Award

While I was visiting one of my favorite blogs, Comedy Plus, I noticed something pretty cool!  Sandee has passed this award on to me.  Thanks Sandee!  I appreciate it so much! This really made my day! This award was authored by The Little Aussie Cynic to honor those blogs with integrity.

Here's Aussie's post:

"After looking, reading and watching many many Blogs and bloggers I decided to issue some recognition to those fellow bloggers I feel maintain integrity in the Blogs. All these bloggers incorporate within their wonderful sites, an integrity not always seen. They share terrific stories, topics, discussions and images. All Well worth a look."

What's really cool about this award is that there are different categories. This makes it even more special! I am going to pass it on in this same fashion.I would like to award the following bloggers with this award:

~For Creativity~

• Bridget at .."And Miles To Go Before We Sleep..."
• Frigga at Any Apples
• Sandee at Comedy Plus (back atcha!)   
• Gattina at WRITER CRAMPS

~For The Spirit of Giving~

• Kara at A bit of me   
• Anna at Beth & Cory's Mom
• Alison at Cherished Moments with my 2 Angels

  ~For Staying True To Their Beliefs~   

• Michelle at Life Is Just Ducky
• Deb at Mom Of 3 Girls   
• Natalie at State of Confusion

~For Keeping it Real~

• Misty Dawn at My Dogs Keep Me Sane 
• Barb at Skittles' Place 
• "Nap Warden" at The Chronicles of a SAHM
• Malcolm at Pop Culture Dish, Presented by Malcolm

*For Social Conscience* was another category - I just didn't use it.  When you pass it on, you might want to include it.

So, take your prize and award it to those blogs you deem deserving. Again, thanks Sandee. You're the best!

Commercial Van Insurance

Do you own vans for commercial use?  Vannet Insurance, which is part of the Autonet Insurance Group is a company in the UK  that provides high quality Commercial Van Insurance You can enter in your information on-line, and they will immediately build a full policy that's perfect for you. Using their advanced computer systems, they can guarantee the lowest rate possible!  If they do not offer the cheapest van insurance for an equal amount of coverage, then they will actually refund your money!  You will also receive excellent customer service. What do you have to lose?  Check out their website and call them today!

Wordless Wednesday: I Can Still See You Mom!

This may be the last time I can get my son to wear this costume! He's had about enough of that pirate sash. But, Mommy can't get enough. He's just so darn cute in it. He's supposed to wear those eye patches every day for at least 30 minutes, but that hardly ever happens. Even when I cover his hands with socks, he can always pull it off. But, his lazy eye problem is so much bettter than it used to be. I tried to make him think it was part of his costume, but I don't think he's buying it. Well, so much for "Wordless" Wednesday.

Mortgages

Getting your first mortgage can be intimidating.  But, it is also very exciting! It's a huge commitment, so you have to be sure you're ready to handle the responsibility.  UK Remortgages has a new mortgage broker site that has independent financial advisors supporting every call.  They search the entire mortgage market so that you don't have to!  You can simply fill out a form on their site, and they will help you find the best product for you in just a few short minutes.  If you need to get a mortgage you should check it out.  They have plans for first time buyers and even those with bad credit issues.

Halloween Costume

Your Unique Halloween Costume Is Operation

Don't get zapped!

What Totally Unique Halloween Costume Should You Wear?

This looks pretty freaky. I never liked the game Operation because I was terrible at it. Also, we were always missing pieces.

If you haven't found your costume yet, you have one last night to get it ready.  Luckily, you can still find cheap candy and costumes even when you procrastinate.  I'm off to the pumpkin patch with Cameron today. Hopefully there are still plenty of pumpkins to see! 

Romantic Ideas

When you have kids, sometimes romance is the last thing on your mind.  You have to really make the effort sometimes, so that you don't take your special someone for granted. It is so easy to get bogged down by dinner and homework, etc. Sometimes, the most romantic thing you can do is listen.  We all need a shoulder to cry on, and a listening ear.  Yes, you may have heard all of this before.  But turning off the television and really listening can help make things better.  Slipping a note in your loved one's wallet or a lunch bag can really make his or her day.  A simple,I miss you note will remind your loved one just how special he or she is to you. Next time you're out to dinner, or just out shopping together, consider holding hands.  It's the little things that count the most!

Big Bang Theory

Has anyone else fallen for Leonard and Sheldon? Well, I guess I can't leave out Penny, Howard, and Rajesh.  I thought this show would annoy me, but I love it!  These guys crack me up.  They're the ultimate nerds(actual physicists)....trying to make it in "normal" society.  My favorite one so far was when Sheldon's mom came for a visit. (In addition to David, from the show "Roseanne" you'll also see Darlene and Jackie) I think the writers of this show are phenomenal.  If you haven't seen it, check it out tonight on CBS! 
   

Binoculars

Did you have binoculars as a kid?  I remember my first pair. They were great for spying on friends and  playing cops and robbers.  Binoculars have come a long way since then. OpticsPlanet.net offers the widest selection of high quality binoculars.  There are now binoculars with night vision!  Some are made specifically for hunting or bird watching, and there are even astronomical binoculars! You can also find waterproof binoculars, if that is what you need.  OpticsPlanet.net offers free UPS Shipping if you spend over $29.95. Check them out to find a great pair of bushnell binoculars today.  You will be pleased with decision.  At OpticsPlanet.com, you will receive excellent customer service by professionals with outstanding product knowledge.  You will be able to get an amazing deal on whichever binoculars are right for you!

Heads or Tails #11

This week's theme is Heads: Spooky or Scary

It might be a bit of a stretch on the theme, but I've got something spooky and scary to tell.

Last night, as we were watching the Red Sox play the Colorado Rockies in Game 4 of the World Series, I realized that my husband has issues.

Well, I already knew he had issues (smile) but this was something different.  After bathing Cam last night, I brought him out looking super cute with his slicked back hair, and big smile for dad.....but there was a problem.  He was wearing his Astros outfit.  It's perfect for this weather - long pants but short sleeves.  I put his Santa socks (Red Sox) to make sure we didn't jinx the game.....and I thought this would be enough.

But oh no.  The Rockies started getting runs.  Chris made me change him into a different outfit so that the "disAstros" wouldn't ruin the luck of the Red Sox.  You see, we're Astros fans as well, and they had a terrible season this year. Chris even went to our room to change his own clothes. "Maybe it's these purple shorts..." (sigh)

Well, you know the rest. The Red Sox swept the Rockies in four games.  Superstitious fans everywhere collectively say, "You're Welcome."

Poll #1: The Results Are In!

Well, it appears that Sex and the City is your favorite HBO Original Series.  The girls from Manhattan were a fun bunch to follow.  I enjoyed this show, but I must admit that I haven't seen them all.  For some reason, I seem to like the earlier episodes better than the last seasons.  Great pick everyone!

Coming in second place, is my favorite, Six Feet Under.  Unfortunately, I watched the last season first, then had to go back and watch the first four seasons.  I think this was one of the most creative and original shows to ever run on television. It was raw and real. It showed us all that we better get on with living, because we're all going to die.  A clear, biting, scary, but realistic message nonetheless.

Surprisingly, The Sopranos and Curb Your Enthusiasm both tied for last place. I thought that more of you would have chosen the boys from Jersey.  My husband and I rented all the seasons on DVD and watched them from January to March of this year.  That's something like 70 shows...But, it helped with watching the last new season because we remembered all the little details.  We, like most people, were disappointed by the ending at the time. But, I guess now I can appreciate it.  My favorite character was Paulie. 

I know that Curb Your Enthusiasm is a popular show on HBO. However, I've never even seen it! I was just curious to see if I should go back and watch it.  I think I'll check it out.  Obviously there are some of you out there who think it is better than the other shows I love. So, it's definitely worth checking out! 

Home Theater Seating

We rarely go out to the movies anymore.  But, we always have a rented DVD to watch.  Our couch is pretty comfortable, but I would love to eventually get home theater furniture.  Boston Tables now has the latest and greatest in home theater seating. You can find everything from Palliser to BerklineTheater Seating. There are some really gorgeous leather or fabric sets! Of course, they still carry the best in pool tables and gaming accessories.  If you have an extra room, or even a basement, that you are converting into a home theater, you should check out www.bostontables.com.  They even offer free curbside shipping to the 48 contiguous states.

This week's menu is going to be pretty simple. We're having a Halloween Party at my mom's house on Wednesday. The Cajun Shrimp Stew is the only thing that takes quite a while to cook. The other nights will be quick and easy. I hope everyone has a fantastic week!

Monday:  Cajun Shrimp Stew (click here for recipe)

Tuesday: Leftovers

Wednesday: Halloween Pizza Party at MEME's House

Thursday: Hamburgers and Salad

Friday: Parmesan Chicken and Corn 

Saturday:  Chicken Fajitas

Sunday: Breakfast for Dinner

Head on over to orgjunkie to share your menu plan for the week!

NFL in London

Wembley Stadium was filled the fans of American Football.  The atmosphere was festive, the weather a bit dreary and wet.  The Miami Dolphins were defeated by the New York Giants 13-10.  Is it just me or was this a pretty boring game? I know the NFL is looking to expand to Europe.  But, this wasn't too exciting. Maybe they should have started out with Patriots v. Colts, or two teams that are actually doing really well this year.  It was pretty fun to watch this soccer field get so torn up after only a few possessions though.    College football is so much more fun to watch than NFL!

Does Your Home Need a Facelift?

Would you like to add curb appeal and value to your home?    Painting the exterior of your home is a quick way to improve its appearance. There are lots of companies out there that you can get to paint your house. But, All-Tex has expertise in preparing the surfaces before painting. The All-Tex experts repair the wood before they begin. They also have the experience to repair Masonite and Hardie siding and trim. First, these Houston painting experts will replace rotted, cracked or warped wood. Then they'll power-wash the exterior and prime the wood.  If windows need to be replaced, you are also in great hands.  All-Tex will install whatever type of window you choose.  From vinyl to hurricane impact windows, you will get a guaranteed custom fit.   You can even get a free estimate! All-Tex will also get the job completed within a reasonable time frame.  If you live in the Houston, Austin, or Central Texas area, you should call All-Tex!

Weekend Snapshot #7: Buster's Bliss (Fall is HERE!)

Buster is in love with the fantastic weather we've been experiencing. During the day, the temperatures have dropped from the usual 90 degrees to around 65 degrees. Cameron and I have been enjoying our morning walks as well. If only this weather would last year round!

To join in the fun, go to Weekend Snapshot.

Hot Stone Massage

Ok. I'll admit I've never had a hot stone massage.  But, after watching this video, I can see that it looks pretty awesome.  I watched the Hot Stone Massage Videobelow, and saw some of the techniques that are used.  Basically they use the stones (which are really warm) to do a full body massage.  This even includes the face.  You can learn a lot about how to do this just by watching the video.  It's kind of funny to see him rubbing her eyebrows with the stones.  But, I'm sure it feels nice. Check it out!

Wonder Women!

I just received the Wonder Woman Award!! I received this award from Bridget over at ...And Miles to Go. I am so humbled to receive this from her because she is truly a wonder woman.  She manages to somehow manage a house full of kids, and stay sane at the same time! In case you haven't seen it, she maintains a fantastic blog. I especially love her recipes.  In fact, she makes me feel like quite a slacker!  But, I will gladly accept this award and pass it on to a few ladies that I think are true Wonder Women:

• Bridget at .."And Miles To Go Before We Sleep..." (Back atcha!)
• Kara at A bit of me
• Amanda
• Frigga at Any Apples
• Anna at Beth & Cory's Mom
• Alison at Cherished Moments with my 2 Angels
• Sandee at Comedy Plus   
• Michelle at Life Is Just Ducky
• Deb at Mom Of 3 Girls
• Misty Dawn at My Dogs Keep Me Sane 
• Barb at Skittles' Place
• Natalie at State of Confusion
• "Nap Warden" at The Chronicles of a SAHM
• Gattina at WRITER CRAMPS

Faucet Fun

We've only been in our house for six years now.  Moen faucets came with our house.  They're all still in great shape.  Faucet.com makes shopping for Moen faucets easy and fun!  Their site has a huge selection of beautiful faucets from which to choose.  When you buy a Moen faucet, it includes the LifeShine durable finish, which is guaranteed not to tarnish, corrode, or flake.  Delivery is very fast, and they have great prices.  I love being able to take my time with online shopping. You can see all the different styles and finishes that are available just by clicking your mouse.  With so many different faucets available, www.faucet.com makes shopping for Moen faucets simple and enjoyable! 

LSU v. Bama

This week LSU is off.  They are currently ranked #3 by the BCS.  On November 3rd, we are playing Alabama.  Nick Saban finally meets up against Les Miles. LSU fans have long been waiting this event.  My brother is getting married on that day, so my husband has already figured out a way to make an escape to a television set.  Yes, LSU football trumps wedding receptions....but he's NOT missing the actual ceremony.  When he fakes his stomach problems, he won't be fooling many.   

Great Place to See!

Have you heard about all the fun Events in St. Augustine?  Uptown Saturday Night is happening from 5pm to 9pm on the last Saturday of October and November in the Uptown San Marco Shopping District, St. Augustine.  There will be so much to see!  Antique stores, galleries, and lots of shops in between Ripley's Museum and the Mission of Nobre de Dios will stay open for this event.  If you are going to be in the area on October 27th or November 24th, you should check it out! The focus for these two dates will be antiques!

I love antiquing, so this is what interests me the most about the event.  St. Augustine is the oldest city, so what better place to find the best antiques!  Rare books, antiques, and even Spanish treasures will be easily found.  With live music, and fabulous weather, what a fun experience for the entire family!  There are even going to be workshops held by antique dealers!  Some of the bookstores will also be holding book signings by local authors.  There are plenty of shops from which to choose. 

What an awesome time of year to experience the beautiful weather and culture of South Florida!  If you live nearby, or are planning a trip, you must experience this fun event for yourself!

Smart Habits Saturday

  .....the meme that forces me to recognize my laziness and do something about it!

Week 6:  Only one cup of coffee a day. This week I'm actually going to do this! 

Week 5: No more candy! My husband must eat something sweet after every meal, and I've gotten into the same habit.  All these little bits of chocolate over the weeks add up a lot of extra calories.   I'm not really that much of a sweet tooth anyway.

Week 4: Wow, a cavity made me actually floss my teeth!  (7 out of 7 days).  I haven't been using the elliptical much, but I have been jogging a little every night when I walk the dog.  My allergies are starting to kick in though.  This week I am going to drink less coffee.  I'm only going to make this amount so that I can't cheat.

Week 3: OK, I took a month off from SHS.  I just went to the dentist and I have a cavity.....ugggg.  So I will really floss now every night.  Also, I will make sure I go to the dentist for a cleaning every 6 months.  We've been letting it slide to more like once a year.

Week 2:  I pledge to start timing myself on the computer.  For every hour I spend on the computer, I must use the Elliptical Machine 10 minutes.....will the computer time be worth it?  (6 out of 20 days)

Week 1:  Daily Flossing (4 out of 7 days)

To join in SHS go to The Lazy Organizer.

Need Sales Training?

Avand.co.uk is a plumbing training company that was started about three years ago.  These plumbing training centers can be found all across the UK.  Now, they are also offering Sales Training .  Many of the qualified plumbers were asking about sales, and about ways in which they could improve their own businesses.  So now, sales training will be offered, along with the plumbing training.  These skills will help those with their own businesses be even more successful.  It takes more than just a skill set to be a successful business person.  With the proper training, individuals can learn ways to make the most of those skills.

Friday's Feast #13

Appetizer
Name a great website you would recommend to others.

Just ONE?  I like Pop Culture Dish and Comedy Plus (I won't be forced to choose) : )

Soup
On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 as highest), how often do you dream at night?

9 - I'm a big dreamer. Last night I was at a gym with Rosie and Elisabeth from the View (and Rosie's fictional sister...don't ask)

Salad
Did you have a pet as a child?  If so, what kind and what was its name?

Chelsea - Chinese Pug (I still miss her - she died of heartworms)

Main Course
If you had the chance to star in a commercial, what would you choose to advertise?

I'd advertise laundry dryer sheets, of course!

Dessert
What is your favorite kind of hard candy?

I like Werther's Originals...but also those Swirly ones that taste like Orange Dreamsicles...

Pushing Daisies

Is anyone else out there watching Pushing Daisies?  It's a great new show on Wednesday evenings on ABC.  The premise is this: A guy has the special ability to make dead things come back to life by touching them.  But if he touches them again, they die for good.  Sounds dumb and creepy, right?  But the show is so cute and family friendly (compared to most shows at night).  The guy is a piemaker, the girl is sweet and wholesome, the sidekick friend is funny....it's just a pleasant show to watch.  It actually reminds me of the book, James and the Giant Peach.  This is because of the fairy tale style narration and the beautiful settings.  You almost have to see it to know what I mean.  If you've seen it, I'd love to hear what other people think about this new show.  I'm just hoping it doesn't get canceled....

Can You Feel It?

If you're an LSU fan, or even just a College Football fan, you should watch this video. It will remind you why you love the game. 

***It works again***

Remember These?

Thursday Thirteen #11

13 "Guilty Pleasures" Volume 2:  Late 80s and Early 90s

(*click on the song title if you'd like to hear it and watch the video*)

1. All I Need is a Miracle - Mike & The Mechanics

2. Don't Forget Me When I'm Gone - Glass Tiger

3. Never Gonna Give You Up - Rick Astley

4.  She Drives Me Crazy - Fine Young Cannibals

5. Walking On Sunshine - Katrina and the Waves

6.  Nothing Compares to You - Sinead O'Connor

7.  Groove is in the Heart - Deee Lite

8.  Rock Me Amadeus - Falco

9.  Shoop - Salt-n-Pepa

10. Mr. Wendal - Arrested Development

11. Distant Sun - Crowded House

12. Monkey - George Michael

13. Alone - Heart

Seven 3's Meme

Michelle tagged me for this meme today, so here it is!

List 3 things you are thankful for today

1. Cameron is peacefully taking a nap right now (this doesn't always happen).

2. We're going out to dinner tonight (yay!)

3.  I'm thankful for my husband! (can't forget him ;)

List 3 people from your past you would love to see again for any reason at all

1. My 5th grade science teacher - just to see how she's doing.

2. My best friend from 2nd grade.  We had so much fun for the two years we knew each other.  But, I didn't keep in touch with her. 

3. A really good friend from high school that I lost contact with.

List 3 things you dream of doing before you die

1. See my son grow up to be happy and healthy

2. Travel around the U.S. with my family.

3.  Have more children.

List 3 wishes you’ve had come true

1. Marrying a wonderful man.

2. Having a beautiful baby boy.

3. Becoming a teacher.

List 3 things you wish you’d never done

1. I wish I hadn't spent so much time worrying in college.  I could have had a lot more fun!

2. I wish I hadn't stopped exercising a long time ago.  It makes me feel better about everything. It's like a natural anti-depressant.  Now that I'm doing it again, I wonder why I ever stopped.

3. I wish I hadn't been mean to a few people in high school. Sometimes I still feel guilty about things like that.

List 3 random things about yourself

1. I love music!

2. I believe there's nothing better than warm socks on cold feet.

3. My favorite food is homemade macaroni and cheese.

List 3 people you tag for this meme

1. Kara

2. Nap Warden

3. Barb

An On Hold Solution

Do you have your own business?   Have you ever thought about how many customers you might be losing because they are unhappy about being on hold?  Just stop and think about how much time you have personally spent waiting on hold for different services.  Well, why not make sure that every single second that your customers spend on hold is used wisely?

Most businesses spend so much on getting the phone to ring.  But, then once they do, they don't consider the importance of an intelligent, captivating, and innovative message system.  On Hold Messages turn your Phone System into a sales machine. 

On Hold Messages can help turn your current Phone System into something that works for you!  You can cross promote your services or products using on hold messages!  You don't want your callers to hang up, do you?  This time on hold is the perfect opportunity to sell your other products.  Afterall, you actually have a possible future customer on the line! Advertising opportunities just don't get any better than that!

We all hate listening to that super cheesy "elevator" hold music.  Let's face it, the radio station selections are usually terrible.  We also don't want to be bombarded with annoying voices. Silence makes us feel like we've been disconnected.  And, have you ever heard those weird chimes? But useful information would be nice!  I know that as a consumer, I'd love to hear about services and products that might be beneficial to my family. 

Why not take advantage of this service?  Let's face it. The bottom line is increasing sales and keeping customers.  The On Hold Company is a win-win solution for you and your own company. There are several different packages offered for all types of businesses.  If you're ever putting customers on hold, you must check them out today! 

Wordless Wednesday: Oblivious Bird

I found this photo on a "funny pictures" website. This innocent little bird has no idea that the cat with two different colored eyes is right behind him. It's the kind of picture that makes me wish it were a video! Cat's can be such bullies! (Sorry, I'm not a cat person.)

Argus is Coming!

I am so curious about Argus!  Payperpost is about to launch a huge new set of improvements to it's system.  I have only been using payperpost for about a month, but I have heard quite a bit about this exciting new upgrade.  Apparently, the name PayPerPost won't even suffice anymore!  The interaction between Advertisers and Bloggers will be totally new.  There will be all kinds of new tools for things like building buzz, ranking, traffic generation, and even social interaction. 

I am hoping that all these improvements will help me earn more money! I'd be lying if I didn't admit that.    I'd like to be able to choose from even more quality opportunities that are more closely related to my blog.  Also, I'd like to actually get at least three a day.  Sometimes the competition for opportunities is tough! I am hoping to get e-mail alerts when great opportunities are available to me.

All of this will hopefully help me get more traffic to my site.  I would love to be able to interact with more bloggers and advertisers.  Improved communication is supposed to be a big part of Argus.  With the launching of Argus only a few weeks away, I don't have to wait much longer!

Heads or Tails #10

This week's theme is Heads: Train.   Wow, what a coincidence! I was going to write a post about my son's Animal Train at some point, just because it has literally changed his life.  I saw a commercial for it last year around this time, and I remember thinking, "Oh that looks like fun."  I mentioned it to my aunt, since she had asked me what she thought she should get him for Christmas that might help him with his mobility. 

Last Christmas, Cam was 21 months old.  Part of his condition is having extremely low muscle tone, called hypotonia.  At this age, Cameron was rolling a lot, but he wasn't scooting, or even pivoting around yet.  When he received his giant loot of Christmas gifts, he seemed to like his Fisher-Price® Amazing Animals™ Sing & Go Choo-Choo™train. But, we had no idea how much it would help him.

  After a few weeks, Cameron figured out that he could push the smoke stack to make it "go".  But, first, the animals and everything but the engine had to go. Bye bye animals. You just slow it down.  Within a month or two, Cameron started rolling out of the way after he started the train. Then, before our eyes, he pushed himself up and pivoted with his arms!  We were so proud of him.  By his second birthday in March, he started "army crawling" or creeping.  By the summer, he was a pro.  He would start the train, immediately roll out of it's way, and then "steer" it in the direction he wanted it to go.  Now, his favorite thing to do is point it towards my husband's feet.  Then, Chris flips it across the room with his feet and Cam gives his dad a mischevious grin.  Repeat. Repeat. Repeat....

Now we're on Animal Train #2.  After months of abuse, and probably 20 battery changes, the first train finally stalled out.  Cam found train number two in my closet.  He actually got inside my closet, shut the door, and then I heard, "All Aboard!!!"  That stinker must have known his first train was about to die.  

We bought Animal Train #3, which is now hidden in a secret location, so that when this one is worn out, we won't have to worry about finding another one.  Cameron is currently army crawling all over the house, and we owe a lot of it to his train.  Physical Therapy helps so much, but finding something motivational was really the key to his progress.