Thursday, December 13, 2012

Thursday.... one day closer

We are in full on count down mode here in our house.... count down to vacation!  YIPPEE!!!!  This is the first year in a while that both the hubs & I are both going to get to relax while visiting my parents.  We are so blessed that we live close enough to my parents, and his parents, to see them for Christmas.  And we are very blessed that both sets of our parents get along well!  

So Cutie is SUPER excited.  She thought we were getting in the car and driving to my parents' house the other day.  I felt horrible that I had to break her heart, but I also reminded her that she still has a field trip and her Christmas party at school! 

Lots to do to get ready to go...  have to cross more off my to do list! 

What are your holiday plans?

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

What would you do if you couldn't fail?

I know we've all heard that question, especially if we are in direct sales, or an entrepreneur.  But have you ever taken the time to REALLY mull that question over?  I know I haven't.  I mean, I've always answered, and my answers were always like make it to the top, be successful.  But really... to think about it. 

What is the one thing, or several things, that you would do if you knew you wouldn't fail?  Me, I'd get out of my own way.  I'd stop thinking about what others are thinking about me, even though I know that they really aren't and I would just do it.  I can be a bit wacky at times, but only if I am really comfortable in my situation... but why do I just not care and act that way all the time?  I have so much fun when I am myself.  What is stopping you?

For me, it is myself.  I shouldn't care what other people think, but I do.  Anyway, I'm off to be great today.   I'm off to make all my dreams come true, maybe not by the end of the day... but definitely to start moving in that direction!

Make today a FANTABULOUSLY wonderful day!

Monday, December 3, 2012

Well, that was SO not how I planned it

I spent last Friday in the ER....  WOW.  So not how I planned my Friday at all.  I called my primary care physician on Friday morning to get an appointment, because I thought I had a sinus infection.  My throat had been hurting all week, and at first I thought it was just a cold coming on.  But then it got to the point where I could barely swallow and drink.  Well, my quack of a PCP closes early on Fridays.  SERIOUSLY?!?  WTH!  I wish I could close early each and every Friday, just because it is Friday.  Anyway, I told them what was wrong, and all they could tell me was that he couldn't see me until Monday.  Yeah, that was not acceptable.  So I called Tricare...  which, although they have been good for my children, I don't always get the same answer twice.  Anyway, I wanted to see if I could go to urgent care without being charged.  I mean what's the point of having insurance, if they won't cover your medical procedures, right?

So, luckily, Tricare had instituted a policy that we have up to 4 times a year to visit an urgent care facility in our home towns.  PHEW!  So I literally hopped into my car, leaving the TV on, and my breakfast on the table, and drove on over.  I was seen pretty quickly by the doctor there, who then told me that he was sending me to the ER.  What I had was not a sinus infection, but in fact, he thought (from only looking and feeling my glands) I had an abscess on my tonsil.  My mouth and tonsil were so swollen, I think I surprised him that I was able to breathe.  So, again I hopped in my car and drove over to the ER.  I was seen pretty quickly there too.  And finally got SOME relief.  They gave me a steroid to help with the swelling... this was the first steroid I think I've ever gotten (at least that I remember).  They hooked me up to an IV for fluids, because I couldn't eat or drink.... gave me some antibiotic and the kicker, I got morphine.  WOW!  That was a ride.  I've never had morphine before Friday.  The nurse was laughing at me.... I was happy that I was lying down when I got it!  It made my head spin. 

So I slept off and on for a bit... finished the bag of IV fluids, felt a little better.  And then got to experience a CAT scan for the first time.  Friday was a day of firsts for me.  They wanted to make sure that the abscess was on my tonsil, and it wasn't just something that could have been fixed with antibiotics.  So...  had that procedure, and back to my room in the ER.  The doctor came in and confirmed that I did in fact have that abscess and it needed to be drained.  They called a local ENT, and got me in there.  What a fun day.... so I hopped again in my car, and drove over there... I probably could have walked, but I wanted to have my car out front of the building.

The ENT was very nice, but the procedure was VERY painful.  I first was sprayed with a numbing spray that was supposed to taste like bananas... yeah, that's no banana I've ever tasted.  It literally made me choke.  He was laughing at me, because of it.  And his nurse was funny... she asked if I wanted more.  Umm... no thank you!  Then she said, "That didn't taste like banana huh?"  She knew sure as $H*T that it didn't.  Anyway, got the local and got the procedure done.  Thank goodness, because even though the procedure hurt like a you know what.... I had relief!  PHEW!  I still hurt the next day, but they gave me pain killers and antibiotics, and I was on my way.  And today, I am happy to say that (knock on wood) I haven't had to take any pain killers!  WAHOO!!!! I'm still not 100%, but I'll take it... at least I can eat and drink somewhat normally. 

I am usually not a person who runs to the doctor for every little ailment, but this girl has learned her lesson.  Although we caught it early, I will take things a little more seriously, with my own health, from now on.  With my children's healths, I always take it SUPER seriously.

It's been an interesting and I guess you could say, exciting two weeks for us.  Little man had his ear drum burst, and we have a referral to an ENT for him to see about tubes.  Fun times.  But I would much rather get it fixed now... than wait and have serious complications later on.

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Thoughts for the day...

I don't normally blog about my kids, although they are my everything.  I am definitely a family person!  But my daughter, who happens to be 5 & a half and in Kindergarten, has really started to read on her own.  I didn't want to push her, although she has desperately wanted to read by herself for the past year.  I have encouraged her to read with us her whole life.  I love reading, and want to pass that along to my children.  I just don't have time to read right now.

But anyway, between reading and learning to tie her shoes, she is floating on cloud 9.  There are only 6 kids in her class, including herself, that are in the shoe tying club.  She was SO excited when she was inducted into that "club" at school. 

I just LOVE LOVE LOVE seeing things through her eyes.  She is a funny, smart, creative, sassy little girl, and she just amazes me every day.  She has picked up things that I never would have thought she would.  We do watch a LOT of PBS kids... and although I don't love how much time she watches TV, I am so glad that it is educational programs, for the most part.  Hey, we all need some mindless time.  But what I love about her is that even though the TV is on, she'll be playing with her toys, coloring a picture, or reading a book.  She isn't just a zombie watching TV. 

I hope my son will be the same way!  He's already a mover and a shaker.  He can't sit still, but not in a bad way.  He loves to explore.  He's only 7 months, as of today!  YIKES!  Where has the time gone? 

I love my little family and am happy that we are complete, neurotic dog and all.  :)  What's your family like?

Thursday, November 22, 2012

12 Days of Christmas Recap

So I've taken you through each product included in this collection.  And there is a special that goes along with it!  Purchase all 12 days for only $299, and you'll get a coupon to shop with me for 15% off your purchase between January 1 and January 31.

I also have smaller 12 Days of Christmas sets, or even if you wanted to wait, 12 Hours of Christmas.  And I even have a 12 Days (Hours) of Christmas for men!  Make that man in your life fall in love with you all over again and show him how much he means to you! 

Ask me about stocking stuffers and teacher gifts.  I do gift wrap, and deliver, for free.

So, recap:
Day 1 (could be Dec 14) - Beauty that Counts Lipgloss
Day 2 (Dec 15) - Satin Lips Mask and Balm set
Day 3 (Dec 16) - Lash & Brow Building Serum
Day 4 (Dec 17) - Lash Primer
Day 5 (Dec 18) - Mascara (Ultimate or Lash Love)
Day 6 (Dec 19) - Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover
Day 7 (Dec 20) - Mint Bliss Energizing Leg & Foot Cream
Day 8 (Dec 21) - Moisture Renewing Gel Mask
Day 9 (Dec 22) - Microdermabrasion Set
Day 10 (Dec 23) - Dance to Life Eau de Parfum
Day 11 (Dec 24) - Dance to Life Radiant Shimmer Body Lotion
Day 12 (Dec 25) - Satin Hands Set (Peach or Fragrance Free)

Happy holiday shopping, y'all!

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

12 Days of Christmas - Day 12

Today's product:
Satin Hands Pampering Set (Peach or Fragrance Free)

The peach set has a slight peach scent and the Fragrance Free is just that, fragrance free.  Both sets include the Hand Softener, the Hand Smootie and the Hand Cream.

Use: Step 1, smooth the Hand Softener all over the hands (also great on the feet).  It is extremely moisturizing.  It helps maintain the natural moisture of the skin and replenishes hydration in dry areas.  Step 2 cleanses and exfoilates in one step.  Rub into your hands with lots of water.  And step 3, smooth over dry hands.  It provides up 24 hours of moisturization.  It absorbs quickly and provides a protective layer on your hands that lasts through several hand washings.

This set lasts for quite some time, especially if you are only using it once a day.

Retail price: $34

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

12 Days of Christmas - Day 11

Today's product:
Dance to Life Radiant Shimmer Body Lotion

This, coupled with the eau de parfum, celebrates the 50th Anniversary of Mary Kay.  It has the same lucious scent of the eau de parfum.

Leaves your skin feeling silky with a subtle shimmer and smelling wonderful.
Retail price: $16

Monday, November 19, 2012

12 Days of Christmas - Day 10

Today's Product: Dance to Life Eau De Parfum

This is a limited edition fragrance.  The top notes are a medley of floral and cirtus.  The middle notes, or the "heart", is feminine, beautiful, and expressive iwth soft floral and fruity notes.  And the third note is woody and vanilla scents. 

"Live. Inspire" Be Moved. TM" 

"Dance to Life Eau de Parfum captures the dreams, triumphs, inspirations and possibilities that are the rhythm of every woman's life.  It connects us through a universal inner beauty and invites us to share it with the world.  It is the momentum that builds when you take a chance, touch a life or live in the moment with true passion.  Dance to Life Eau de Parfum is for he woman who doesn't just go through the motions, but dances with every beat of her heart.  Whatever moves you, embrace it."

Fragrances in this eau de parfum are Wet Apple, Cassis, Freesia, Rose de Mai, Jasmine, Burgundy Rose, Ylang Ylang, Magnolia, Warm Vanilla, and Amber.

Retail price: $50

Sunday, November 18, 2012

12 Days of Christmas - Day 9

Today's product:

*A personal favorite* Microdermabrasion Set!  This set is so wonderful.  It has completely changed my skin, for the better, of course.

This set has been a top seller since it launched.  It is a two-part system.  It goes to work immediately to fight fine lines, make pores look smaller and revitalize skin so it looks noticeably softer and smoother.  The first step is the same crystals that are used by a dermotologist.  It feeds and nourishes the skin from below, which brings oxygen to the surface of the skin and stimulates circulation.  This is where you'll get your glow, ladies!

Step two feeds and nourishes the skin from above, and feels like silk.  It is comprised of the exclusive Mary Kay triple-tea complex. 

How it works: use about a quarter size amount for your face and neck, of Step 1 - Refine.  Massage it in with a lot of water.  Rinse thoroughly with warm water.  Dry your skin, and apply 2 pumps of Step 2 - Replenish.  It is safe to use about 2 times a week, but make sure to NOT use any acne products on the same day.  And it is best to wait a day, at least, inbetween uses.

Retail price: $55
-Is about 30 applications
-Clinically tested for skin irritancy and allergy
-Fragrance-free
-Oil-free
-Hypoallergnic
-Non-comedogenic

Saturday, November 17, 2012

12 Days of Christmas - Day 8

Today's product:
TimeWise Moisture Renewing Gel Mask  Now, this is a product I don't use, because I am an oily person... well I have oily skin.  It is best for Normal to Dry skin types.  So all the claims that I have on this one, are from the company.

This mask was formulated with scientifically studied ingredients that help qunch your skin's thirst in addition to other skin-loving benefits.  Signs of stress disappear, as skin feels calmed, purified and nourished.

This mask instantly hydrates, while also locking in moisture.  It helps skin feel firmer, healthier, smoother and softer.  It also helps reduce the appearance of pores as well as fine lines and wrinkles. 

How to use: apply a thick, even layer to cleansed skin.  Leave on for 5-10 minutes, and remove with a warm, wet washcloth.  Gentle enough to use 2-3 times per week.

Retail price: $20
-Suitable for sensitive skin
-Oil-Free
-Fragrance-free
-Non-comedogenic (doesn't clog pores)
-Dermatologist tested
-Ideal Skin Types: Dry to oily skin*

*I don't know many oily skin types that want to add moisture to their skin.  But if you are willing to try, let me know, and I'd love to get your honest opinion of this product. 

Friday, November 16, 2012

12 Days of Christmas - Day 7

Today's product:

Mint Bliss Energizing Leg & Foot Cream.  Oh what can I say about this AWESOME product?  It is amazing and will make your feet and legs feel devine!

The cream has a cool mint formula that helps feet and legs feel revived.  It makes your feet feel great, if you are on them all day long and it is moistruizing, as well.

Retail price: $10


Thursday, November 15, 2012

12 Days of Christmas - Day 6

Today's product is one that I have already highlighted.  So I am going to link back to that post.  It is out Oil Free Eye Makeup Remover!

Oil Free Eye Makeup Remover

Enjoy!

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

12 Days of Christmas - Day 5

Today's product:

MASCARA!  I don't know a single woman that doesn't love mascara and we have the BEST!  (Yes, I am biased!)

Today's product is our mascara, either the Ultimate or Lash Love mascara.

Ultimate Mascara:
Retail price: $15

This formula is extremely volumizing and super-thickening!  It is smudge, flake, and clump reisitant.   It creates big, bold lashes that stay seperated all day long!

It comes in Black and Black/Brown.

Lash Love Mascara:
Retail price: $15

This comes in two formulas, water resistent and water proof!  Lashes appear fuller, lifted and multiplied.  The special brush is flexible, and seperates and coats all lashes, even fine and hard to reach lashes!  Looks natural and soft, flawless finish.  It also has an exclusive Panthenol Pro Complex and vitamin E to help moisturize, strengthen and condition lashes.  This formula defines, defends and delivers four times the volume without looking overdone!

Visit my website to learn more about either of these formulas or to place an order: www.marykay.com/lizherman


Tuesday, November 13, 2012

12 Days of Christmas - Day 4

Today's product: Lash Primer

Okay, so I use this product, but not regularly.  So we both are going to learn something today! 

This product gives your mascara a little boost to deliver the look of longer, more voluminous lashes.  It instantly intensifies lash volume and creates longer-looking lashes.  It also strengthens and helps condition lashes and lifts your lashes and helps them stay curled longer.

It is a clear formula, and the company has promoted this as a clear mascara for that "natural" look. 

Retails: $15
-Ophthalmologist tested
-Suitable for contact lens wearers
-Suitable for sensitive eyes


Monday, November 12, 2012

12 Days of Christmas - Day 3

Today's product is one of our newer products, and a personal favorite of mine, the Lash & Brow Building Serum.  This product is AMAZING.  It rebuilds and thickens your lashes, and brows.  (I haven't tried it on my brows, but my lashes look amazing now, because of this product.)

Okay, company material on this product:
This product helps lashes look fuller, and thicker and have more volume.  Just use it once a day for 30 days & you'll see the results that women everywhere are talking about!

So, an independent study done with this product said that 7 out of 10 women said their lashes look fuller.  80% also said that it helped reduce lash loss during makeup removal (don't forget about our Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover).  77% said it reduced las hbrittleness and breakage.  76% said the look of thin, sparse lashes was improved and 65% said the look of thin, sparse brows was improved.

I have used this product and LOVE it.  What you do is make sure to use your Oil Free Eye Makeup Remover and remove all your eye makeup, at night.  If you wear contacts, you need to take them out before using this product.  Then unscrew the top, and brush the gel on your lash line (where your lashes meet the skin).  Leave it there all night to do it's magic and in 30 days, viola!  Gorgeous lashes!  For brows, just brush on the gel on sparse or bare areas in the direction of hair growth. 

Retails: $38-Ophthalmologist-tested
-Suitable for contact lens wearers
-Suitable for sensitive eyes

12 Days of Christmas - Day 2

*Please excuse me, I forgot to post this yesterday.  So you will get 2 in one day!


Day 2:
Satin Lips Set - this 2 step set gently exfoliates and moisturizes your lips.  It helps with dry, chapped lips, and gives you those kissable lips.

Retail price: $18

Visit my website to learn more about it, or to purchase (www.marykay.com/LizHerman)

Saturday, November 10, 2012

12 Days of Christmas - Day 1

Okay, so I have decided to share with you what we call our "12 Days of Christmas" set... you'll get to see one product per day!

So Day 1:
The Beauty that Counts.  Every year, Mary Kay helps to change the lives of women worldwide, through the Mary Kay Foundation.  For the past several years, we have had lipsticks or lip glosses that are limited edition colors and $1 from the sale of each, goes to help change the lives of women.

Retail price: $14 each, with $1 from each sale going to the Mary Kay Foundation

Check out my website (www.marykay.com/LizHerman) for more information or to purchase these lip glosses.

ALSO, my personal goal is to sell 100 of these by December 15.  When I do, I'll be donating $100 to the Mary Kay Foundation.  So we will be doubling our donation to help women worldwide!

If you would like to read more about the Foundation and their work, please visit: http://www.marykayfoundation.org/Pages/Home.aspx

Friday, November 9, 2012

One of my favorite products!

Okay, so I haven't really mentioned my business much in this blog, yet... because I wasn't sure which way I wanted to take my blog.  BUT it is about time. 

So, I wanted to tell you all about one of my all time FAVORITE products!  In fact, it is one that my customers love and I have a hard time keeping it on my shelf.  It is our Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover.  It cleans all your eye make up, waterproof and regular mascara, easily and gently.  It doesn't leave your eyes feeling greasy either.  It is hypoallergenic and safe for contact wearers, I know I am one.  It has been tested by opthamologists.

How you use it is to shake the bottle until the two formulas mix and become a milky color, squirt some on a cotton ball or round, and gently wipe away your eye makeup.  I like to place the cotton ball on my eye for a minute to let the solution absorb the makeup and then wipe.  I feel like it comes cleaner when I do that. 

It is not oily, at all, even though it looks like it.  In fact, it is made up of (and here's where I'm going to get all scientific on y'all! hehehehe) poloxamer 184 and cyclohexasiloxane, and other things.  The first is the cleansing agent, and the later is the solvent and emollient. 

It is also great to take lipstick off your lips without making your lips become red or irritated.  It helps when you are trying lipstick colors, so that you can get a good idea of the true color of the lipstick and how it reacts with your lips. 

Retail cost: $15


Too cool, when I googled the product, we were mention in Allure magazine in 2011.  Here's the link: http://www.allure.com/beauty-products/skin/2011/mary-kay-makeup-remover

To read more about this awsome product, visit my website (www.marykay.com/lizherman). 

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Holiday Traditions

For me the holidays are an amazing time of year.  First off, my birthday happens to fall between Thanksgiving and Christmas.  In fact, my birthday is 2 weeks to the day before Christmas... my birthday is December 11.  When I was little I once told my mom that I was so lucky because I got birthday presents (mainly talking about my toys here), and then two weeks later, I got Christmas presents.  I said that I could get bored with my birthday presents and then viola, new toys to play with!  (I think I was 5... so give me a break here!)  HA!  Anyway, I'm changing lanes without signaling here...  Back to my topic at hand. 

Holiday traditions!  That's what I intended to write about today.  Holiday traditions.  Over the years, our family tradtions have changed.  When I was younger, and my grandparents were still alive, we would all go over to my dad's parents' house on Christmas Eve to have dinner.  We weren't allowed to go into the living room, because Santa hadn't been there yet.  And my parents and grandparents would tell us that all the boxes in the living room were just empty boxes, again because Santa hadn't filled them up yet. 

At my grandparents' house on Christmas Eve, my grandmother would make a TON of food (too much food, of course).  And we would eat and enjoy time together.  Then we would all go home and go to bed. 

The next morning, after opening presents at our own home, we would start the journey.  We'd start with brunch at my dad's parents' house.  Where my grandmother would make an even bigger spread of food than the night before!  And she would always use the left over ham, from the night before, and make ham salad.  I only ever liked her ham salad.  Then one of the adults would sneak outside and ring the doorbell.  This was to let us know that Santa had been to their house and filled all our empty boxes.  Then my grandfather would start handing out the gifts.  He'd usually have myself, my sister or one of my cousins help him.  And we would all open our presents.  One of my grandmother's best friends used to buy us a new book every Christmas.  I read some books I had never even heard of, but am so happy I did, because of her.  It was awesome.  Usually, when we finished opening presents, my sister and I would start reading our books.

Then, we'd all load up the car, and head over to my great Aunt's house, my grandmother's sister.  She usually would rush out of Christmas morning at my grandparents' house to get back to her house.  Where she would have even MORE food... and some presents.  We would open those presents, eat again, load up the car again... and drive to another house... and another...  and another.  Well not really, but it felt that way!  My dad has said that we did, when I was really young, visit a LOT of people on Christmas day.

Our last stop was my mom's parents' house.  Where we would have dinner.  My mom's parents were Greek... so we not only had traditional American Christmas foods, but we'd also have Greek foods.  And more presents.  My dad used to say by the end of the night, the car was so full, his pants were so tight and we were all exhausted!  But it was fun.

As I grew older and my grandparents passed away or just weren't able to host Christmas any more, my parents started to host it.  We stopped driving all over Chicago on Christmas day... and stayed home.  The nice part was that my mom's side of the family and my dad's side of the family could all be together for Christmas dinner.  And then we added to the family, as my sister got married, and I got married... and we had kids, and my cousin had kids...  But now, my parents no longer own that house (the house that I grew up in).  And I'm just too far away to go home for Christmas.

Instead of dreaming of a white Christmas, I dream of a warm Christmas with palm trees.  My parents traded in their Mid-western address for one in Florida... and I'm not complaining.  We usually go to my parents' house in Florida for Christmas, for now.  It is an easy drive from NOLA to their house in FL and we like being together.  We now invite my in-laws to spend the holiday with us and my parents.

So what are your holiday traditions?

Monday, November 5, 2012

Happy Monday - Funday

So I know I've been MIA lately.  Life just got busy... between work, kids, my business, my hubby and my neglected house, there just wasn't time for me!  I'm a HUGE believer that everyone should get to spend SOME (not all... just some) time on themselves and by themselves, doing what they love to do.

For me, it's crafts.  I made Cutie some hair bows this weekend.  I only finished two, but I think they turned out adorable, if I do say so myself!  I'll post pics tomorrow, if I remember to take them.  I of course got my inspiration from Pintrest.  There are a lot of GREAT turtorials out there.  I enjoy making them, and Cutie LOVES wearing them. 

I am slowly, but surly, making my way through my Pinterest pins.  HA!  I may be old and gray before I make it through all of them!  Hehehehehehe.... LOL.

So anyway, not that I am a football fan, but living in the South, you kind of have to be.  It is an exciting weekend for football.  (Not that I watched any of the games.. but from what I hear from everyone, it was!)  HEHEHEHEHE!

Anyway, find me on Pinterest, if you want... my Pinterest is: pinterest.com/violets1211

And share with me what your favorite pin (doesn't have to be mine) is.  I'd love to connect!

(Just a little Monday Morning/afternoon humor!)  Bring it on, Monday!

Friday, October 26, 2012

Had to take a break...

I've been MIA, because Little Man caught a bronchial infection.  His pediatrician isn't calling it RSV, but treating it as such, because their office doesn't test for RSV.  Anyway, so I've had Little Man at home with me all week.  And that has been a challenge.  Between trying to work my job, my business, care for him and all that... it's been tiring.  Hubby was only able to stay home one day, Wednesday, so I was busily trying to do as much as possible in that one day. 

Anyway, I had a few moments and wanted to wish everyone Happy Friday!  Hope all my friends in New England/East Coast stay safe and don't get hit too hard by the hurricane.

Friday, October 19, 2012

Pinterest Pin Success!

So, to preface this post, I am not a cook.  It's not that I don't know how... It's just that I hate cooking.  That being said, I LOVE LOVE LOVE me some lemon chicken.  Every time we go to a Greek restaurant, I order Avoglemono Soup (lemon, rice, egg soup... oh, if it is done right, it is to DIE for!), and lemon chicken.  Problem is that hubby doesn't like lemon.  Makes it hard to make lemon chicken, when he's home.

So, because he's traveling, and my parents are here... I made YUMMY lemon chicken last night.  (Here's the link again:  http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/pan-roasted-chicken-lemon-garlic-green-beans-10000000780291/index.html)  And here's a picture of how it turned out... I didn't have green beans, so I made it with just the potatoes.... and then made a side of other veggies (corn, asparagus, & carrots), instead.  OH MY!  It was yummy, if I do say so myself.  :)  (Not to toot my own horn)

So yummy... so I definitely call that a Pinterest Success and will be making it again.  Heck, hubby might even like it... the chicken itself wasn't too lemony... but the potatoes were a bit more.... still SO yummy!

Happy Friday, y'all!

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Thursday Musings

Well, what to say today?  I'm exhausted... hubby is travelling yet again.  He left early this morning.  And Little Man decided that 5 am was wake up and play time.  Yeah, I wasn't so amused.  Coffee was my BFF this morning. 

Anyway, tonight's dinner is a recipe I found on Pinterest....  here's the link:  http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/pan-roasted-chicken-lemon-garlic-green-beans-10000000780291/index.html

It looks yummy... and I promise to take pictures of the finished product and let you know how it turned out.  So stay tuned.

Here's to a great Thursday!

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Okay... so...

Consistency isn't a big priority on my blog lately.  Life has been crazy, just like I'm sure it has for you all too.  My parents are arriving today, and I haven't seen them in several months.  My parents live in Michigan in the summer... this year it was from June through now.  And Florida for the rest of the year.  Tough life... I know.  But my dad has worked very hard to provide that kind of life for my mom and well for my sister and I, when we were younger.

Anyway, I'm SUPER excited, as is Cutie!  She LOVES LOVES LOVES when Grandmother and Grandfather come into town and stay with us.  (Or we go to their house and stay with them.)  I knew I would never really live too  close to my parents, after I went to Florida for college.  But I also thought I would be living in Tampa or St Pete or some place like that in Florida... not moving around the country every so many years.  But life has a funny way of working out.  Hubby and I will move back to FL, once he's finished in the military (meaning.. when he retires).  But until then, I'll take any time I get with my parents, when they want to visit or we visit them.

It's just a shame that my sister and I don't live near each other.  I mean, I know that our kids will know each other, but it's just not the same.  I grew up, because times were different, with my cousins.  We saw them if not every week, at least once or twice a month, as well as for all major holidays and birthdays.  We were as close as we could be, considering the age difference... my younger cousins are about 10 years younger than I am... and my older cousins are 5-10 years older than me as well.  But I don't plan to move back to Chicago, especially since my parents no longer own a house there.  And I know my brother-in-law doesn't plan to move back to FL, although he did live there for some time, before they moved back North.  He just doesn't like warm weather...  Makes for an interesting relationship.  My sister doesn't really like cold weather.  HA!

Okay, seriously, I digress...  today is Hump Day!  YAY!  Happy Hump Day, y'all!  I guess, I'm just deep in thought about how busy we all get, what with kids, jobs, families, life...  it's crazy!

Well, at least we are one day closer to the weekend!

 

Friday, October 12, 2012

Friday Funday!

It's finally Friday! Yippee!!!! I don't know about you, but my week seemed to crawl along, which isn't always a bad thing. 

I am looking forward to just vegging tonight... with no kids backpacks to repack tonight, or homework to make sure is done.  Just chill.  Work out and chill.  Also catching up on all my DVR'd shows, with the hubby of course.

Anyway, what big plans do you all have for the weekend?  Us - cleaning up our mess of a house.  My parents arrive this next week.  So gotta get the house clean.  I'm also trying to wash all the old baby clothes to get ready for consigning them. 

I did find a "fabulous" way to get those phantom spots out of clothes.  But so far, it hasn't really worked.  I think I'm going to go back to my Dreft, Oxyclean & HOT HOT HOT water & let soak for 24-48 hours.  It worked wonders when Cutie was a baby and would have blow outs or baby food stains on clothes.  And if the spots just don't come out... well, I'll just have to throw them away or see if someone wants slightly stained (I mean the stains aren't too noticeable... just those stains that remain... you know the ones where you wonder if it is a stain or your eyes playing tricks).

Anyway, Happy Friday, y'all!

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Happy Hump Day!

It's Hump Day again...  one day closer to the weekend.  WAHOO!  I really don't have much to write about today, but just wanted to wish everyone "Happy Hump Day".

So this week, I am bound and determined to make my daughter some hair bows.  I get so tired of her hair being a mess for school.  So, I found some cute ribbon, that matches her uniform, and will be making them.  I will post my finished result, but here is where I am getting my ideas from:

http://blogs.babble.com/babys-first-year-blog/2011/11/10/40-hair-bow-tutorials/?pid=3210#slideshow

I also wanted to say... "Hi, my name is Liz and I am addicted to Pinterest."  There I said it.  I admitted it.  I have a problem pinning so many ideas, and haven't even started to scratch the surface of them yet!  The hair bows will be one of the first that I am attempting.  So I'll let you all know how it goes.

Monday, October 8, 2012

Monday Funday

Well, I hope everyone had a great weekend.  The weather around here turned, seemed like over night.  This morning we woke up to 50's!  YIKES!  That's cold for this time of year in NOLA.  And yesterday barely reached 70!  All last week it was still warm... in the 80's, and sunny.  And it is supposed to get back there by the week's end.  But this just leads to sickness around here.

Anyway, that's not what today's post is all about.  Now, I know you all know that I'm on a quest to get back in shape, be in better health and loose some weight.  So, I found something on Pinterest, yes, I am addicted.  It is a DIY body wrap.  CRAZY, I know.  I usually don't believe in those things... but something told me to try it.  It consisted of using "Farewell to Cellulite" gel (the Equate brand, found at Walmart), Vitamin E oil, and Saran Wrap, or plastic wrap.  You rub the gel and oil on the part of your body you want to wrap, wrap it with the plastic wrap and then sit under a warm blanket for 45 minutes to an hour. (I used a heating pad, the original poster on Pinterest used an electric blanket)  I did an hour.  You are supposed to sweat, which I didn't.  But I do have to say that I did loose some inches.  I tape measured myself right before and right after, and then I measured the next morning and the next night.  So here's what happened, right after I finished, I lost 1 inch all over (oh and I wrapped my waist).  By the next morning, I lost a total of 4 inches.  By the next night, I lost another inch.  Then I did another wrap, and lost another inch.  By the next morning, I was down half an inch, and by the next evening I was down a total of 5 inches.  I didn't change my eating habits or water consumption or anything like that.  I am not sure if it is lasting.  But I'll keep you updated.  I am going to try to do 4 wraps this week, on 4 consecutive days.  And report my findings by the end of the week.  I do have to warn you, though, I am running again this week, changing my eating habits and starting back on Bios Life Slim.  (If you want to know more about that, email me or send me a message!)

So, happy Monday, y'all.  Let's make today a GREAT day.

Thursday, October 4, 2012

Thursday Musings

I have the best hubby ever!  He's been traveling for the last month, literally.  So it has been Little Man and Cutie and myself 24/7.  It isn't easy and I commend all those single mothers out there.  I don't know how they do it ALL the time.  I'm screaming for a break right now... but I know I won't be getting one until MAYBE Sunday.  But seriously, my hat goes off to all those single mothers out there.  You should be celebrated!

Anyway, so back to the reason my hubby is awesome.  We were texting this morning about our 5 year old, Cutie.  She is such a character... I am SO much!  And at times, she is very trying.  I know it is her job to test the waters... and she does a great job at it.

Anyway, ran out this afternoon on my lunch break, came back and found a note that someone had delivered something and it was next door with my neighbor.  (What a sweet man, and not bad to look at either... hehehehe, don't tell hubby.  Hey, I'm married, not dead.  I can notice when something or someone is nice looking.)  Anyway, hubby sent me flowers.  I never get flowers, because I am allergic to most flowers.  But here they are!  So wonderful.

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Hump Day!

It says it all!  One day closer to the weekend.  I used to love weekends... sleeping in, playing outside, just relaxing.  Life changes when you insert an infant into the mix.  Although, Little Man isn't so much an infant any more... he's 5 months old now!  YIKES!  Time has flown.  Anyway, that is not what today's post is all about.

I am fed up.  Fed up with the weight that I have gained.  It is making me unhappy and well, I have a closet full of cute clothes that I can't wear right now.  Call me cheap, but I also DON'T want to buy new ones, although I do love shopping!  LOL.  Seriously, though.  So I decided I was going to try a 3-day jump start to my diet.  It hasn't been easy... especially with my daughter selling chocolate for a fundraiser for school.  Chocolate is a weakness of mine.  {Sigh}  I am trying to have will power... and so far, yesterday, so good.  Let's hope I can hold out.  I tried to give up coffee yesterday, but tea just doesn't cut it for me.  To bitter... and not strong enough.

Anyway, the other thing I am back on, well, once it arrives, is Bios Life Slim.  I tried it a year ago, and had great results... and this time, I think I'm going to have even better results, because a) I have more weight to loose starting out, b) I'm exercising again, and c) I am attempting to eat more cleanly... lots of fruits and veggies and lean meats and not so much the processed stuff.

I will post my results, and maybe some pics, if I'm brave enough.  But definitely my results. 

I also am going to try a few other things and will post about those, when I finish them.  I am a skeptic about most things... pretty much, I feel, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.  But I will review what I've done and my results, so that you all can try it as well.

Anyway, off to work I go... 

Oh yeah, follow me on Pintrest, if you want...  http://pintrest.com/violets1211 
Or Twitter (although I'm not nearly as active on Twitter) http://twitter.com/violets1211

And Happy Hump Day, Y'all!

Friday, September 28, 2012

Friday Funday

So what is on your calendar for today?  Mine is work, work and more work.  But, you know what, I love my work!  I love the flexibility that I have with both of my jobs....  So, make today great.  This came across my email today (we used to say "this came across my desk"  Ha!  Just taking a short trip down memory lane!)....

"No one is going to come to your house and make your dreams come true".  Grant Cardone

No truer words were spoken.  So get out, make your day fabulous and make all your dreams come true.  I know I'm working on it and loving every minute!

Happy Friday!

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Where are the parents?

A lot has happened within my family alone, this week.  My poor neice finally opened up to my sister that a girl at her school has been bullying her.  I know my neice means well, but sometimes she can be bossy.  BUT, that doesn't open the door for any one to bully her, let alone anyone else for that matter.  I'm passionate about this, because I've seen too much hurt from being bullied, in my own life and in the life of others.  I know schools are changing their policies on this issue, but how can we as parents, if you are a parent, stop this?  I know I step up on my soap box often, and usually I don't judge other people's parenting, HOWEVER, there needs to be something done about this. 

It drives me crazy that you need a license or schooling or education to do just about anything these days, EXCEPT be a parent.  Or should I say, have a child.  I know it's horrible to say that, because there are so many good parents out there that do care how their children act in public and towards others.  But until we stop sensationalizing teenage pregnancy, and also educate others on what it truly means to be a parent, we won't be stopping this epidemic. 

My heart broke when I found out what happened.  I knew that my neice didn't have a lot of friends at school, but it also doesn't mean that she deserves what she has been getting.  I literally was in tears for most of the day.  I wanted SO badly to fly/drive/get up to her (I live in NOLA and they live in Chicago) as soon as I could and fight the fight for her.  And she isn't even my child.  The mama bear in me came out. 

There are few issues that I am SUPER passionate about, and bullying happens to be one of them.  bullying leads to a lot of things... and I know, hurt people, hurt people.  And that those bullies do have bigger issues, but how can we help?  How can we as parents, aunts, sisters, brothers, moms, dads, uncles, grandparents, help to stop this?  Think about it.... 

A friend of mine, who happens to be on Facebook, but I do know this person in real life too, just posted about how some kids in her neighborhood were litering and she chased them down, because they happened to throw their trash in her kids playhouse. And she gave them a piece of her mind.  What really shocked and saddened me was when others started posting about other teens and pre-teens in their neighborhoods questionning authority and adults.  Now don't get me wrong, I do want my children to question the world around them, BUT my hubby and I are SUPER strict about respecting authority, adults and each other.  We are fighting the good battle with our daughter, right now, because she does question us.  I don't think she means to do it to be naughty or that she thinks she's above us, but she's a curious child.  What I get SO frustrated with is the lack of manners that kids have... and that all boils down to parenting, just like bullying does.  I know I know, bullies do have issues in their lives, but where are their parents?  Come out come out...  teach your kids to be productive (key word there) members of society.  You'd be amazed what my 5 year old already knows and has known for several years now.

I'm sorry for rambling about this, but it just hit a chord with me...  Bullies need to be stopped and parents need to parent and be their children's friends.  I love my kids, but I also want my kids to grow up confident people who have respect, manners and common sense.  In other words, good people.  I know other parents out there want the same, so start parenting.  Okay, stepping off my soapbox for now...  and thank you for reading this if you did.

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Fun times tonight

I never really realized how busy we can get...  Cutie (my daughter) will be cheering tonight with the Boyett Junior High Cheerleaders!  I'm so excited.  I was a cheerleader and loved every minute of it.  I had hoped that she would find it sooner than I did.  Although, I'm not sure if I'm ready for her to cheer on an all-star squad.  It's an expensive sport, but such a rewarding one.  Anyway, I so can't wait to see her cheer with the girls tonight.  I'll post pics after she's done.  :)

Monday, September 24, 2012

Monday Funday

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend.  I did, although it was WAY too short, as always.  The weather was gorgeous... which is always a nice thing, when the weather turns, especially down here in NOLA.

Anyway, I'm thinking that my weight loss journy is going to be switched to my other blog (watchlizrun.blogspot.com).  I am going to combine my eating clean blog with my running blog.  And I'm going to keep this one about my life, my family, and my crazy thoughts! 
Anyway, if you are out there, comment, please.  I'd love to connect with friends, or make new friends.

Happy Monday, y'all!

Friday, September 21, 2012

TGIF!




Wow!  I'm on a roll.  2 posts in 2 days.  :)  Love it.

I have so many ideas for topics, but have to remember them all now.  hehehehehe... I blame mommy brain.  (I swear it's a real thing!)  And I promise it will not be all about my weight loss goals.  Anyway, where to start?

I am a HUGE Pintrest addict.  I hoard on Pintrest... I swear, it's such an addiction.  So, I have decided that I really need to start trying the things that I have pinned!  One is the exercise program I found that is a 2 week program.

I have made a few of my pins that are the single serve cookies and brownies... I have SUCH a sweet tooth.  :)  Some were good, some were not so good.  LOL.

Anyway, a little dive into my life right now... Little man has started on solids.  And you would think that we NEVER feed the poor kid.  I can't get the green beans into his mouth fast enough.  It's crazy. Last night, hubby mentioned that he remembers cutie (my daughter) being the same way.  WOW!  It's fun.

Anyway, I'm happy it's Friday... I can't wait to babysit my bed tonight.  I just hope it's a better night than last night.  :)

And just a little cuteness... my kids playing together a few weeks ago. 

HAPPY FRIDAY, y'all!


Thursday, September 20, 2012

Well that didn't last long...

Okay, so finding time and energy to workout, let alone start running again, has been a challenge.  Between the baby getting sick and not sleeping well and then reverting to waking several times a night, and hubby traveling, life got in my way.  But that's okay.  I'm going to start again... I'm going to start with the Couch to 5K program (I've done it in the past and did well with it) and on my "off" days from running, I'll be trying that two week Prevention program that I posted about earlier.  I also will be documenting it all... I promise, daily, or at least Monday through Friday.  :)

I'm not sure if I ever even posted about myself... so here I am.  I am a 30-something (really I am proud of my age - so I'll claim it.  I'm 34) wife and mother of 2.  Glup.  That just scares me sometimes.  I am married to a man that is active duty military and we are living in our 5th state, since we got met and got married... that's in the last 11 years.  We are lucky ones, because hubby's job doesn't have us moving as often as some.  We are usually stationed some place for 4 years or so.  But that's only recently.  I do work a job, which is not necessarily the norm for military spouses.  But I love working.  And I do have a direct sales business, which I am trying to make more full time then part time or hobby time.  I'm working on promoting myself and earning my first car with my company, among other things this year.  My children are amazing kids.  My daughter is in kindergarten and it is SO much fun to watch her learning new things and get excited about her day.  In fact, last night, after her Open House (which she just couldn't sit still.  She wanted to show me EVERYTHING in her classroom... too cute!), she said to me that she wished it were morning already.  I asked her why, and she said because she couldn't wait to get back to school.  I, on the other hand, was wishing time would stop, at least for the night, so I could get more than 5 hours of uninterrupted sleep.  HA!  I guess I'll sleep when I'm dead. 

Anyway, little man is now 4 months, almost 5 months old.  YIKES!  The time has flown by.  And the weather is getting cooler... it's not nearly as humid as it has been!  YAY!  Fall is in the air in NOLA... okay, so it still reaches 85-90 during the day, but seriously people, the humidity is not there.  So, I really am going to focus on running outside.  Part of my issue, is my own issue... I feel like people are watching me.  But I need to just put that aside and think of them watching me in awe, rather than in shock.  :)  So, I'm signing off for today... but tune in tomorrow, and I'll tell you how today went.  :)

Monday, June 25, 2012

My first Pintrest Pin...

So, I've decided to write about all the pins that I try from Pintrest.  The first is going to be a fitness one.  This one I'll be starting this evening, after my hubby gets home.  It is a 2-week "turn around" workout from Prevention magazine.  I'll post my stats at the end of two weeks, and maybe I'll be brave enough to post a before & after picture.  We'll see. 

This is my first real workouts since my son was born, 8 weeks ago.  I have to ease into it, because I wasn't able to workout while pregnant.  But I do need to get started.  I am signed up to run the Color Run in November in New Orleans.  I am excited, but I haven't run in almost a year now... I stopped in November of 2011, or so.  After Tropical Storm Lee came through, and being pregnant, my asthma was kicked up.  Running was difficult.  Anyway, I'm sure you all don't want to read about my health troubles.

I am back and better than before!  But this being New Orleans and being the summer time, I am thinking of waiting a bit before I really dive into running.  The dreadmill (treadmill) is NOT my favorite to run on, but at least it is in the air conditioning.  :)  Anyway, I digress...  here is the website for the workout that I will be doing for the next two weeks.  http://www.prevention.com/print/26102

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

The beginning...

So, I've started 2 other blogs and haven't gone anywhere with them.  But this one will be different.  First off, a little about me... I am a 30-something, mother of 2, active duty military wife.  I work full time, and have a direct sales business that I am working to grow.  My hubby and I have lived in 5 states in the last 12 years (which isn't a lot for military families, but it is a lot for me.)  My hubby is career, to answer that question... and we have about 5 more years before he is eligible to retire, but he will probably go for 26 or so, depending on where we are in life, of course.  In terms that I understand is about 2 more tours before we entertain the thought of retiring.  WOW!  This thought scares me a bit, but excites me too...  As I get older, I like moving less and less.  Don't get me wrong, my hubby's military career, thus far, has been wonderful.  He has gotten a lot of GREAT opportunities to do things that he's been wanting to do since he was little... to see places that he never thought he would, and to accomplish many goals that he's had.  For me, it has given me the opportunity to live in places that I never thought I would. 

I went to college in Jacksonville, FL and once I arrived there, I didn't think I was going to leave.  HA!  But God had other plans for me.  I thought that once I graduated from college I would move to Tampa or some bigger city in FL and start my life.  But at the end of my junior year, I met my hubby.  And we ended up getting married a year after I graduated.  He got accepted into law school and off we were to the College of William and Mary.  Anyway, I digress...

This blog is just a compilation of my life, my interests and my family.  I'll be sharing my fitness journey, my life journey and my business journey with you all.  So stay tuned!  :o)