For more Wordless Wednesday Photos, Visit 5 Minutes for Moms

Oh my! It's embarked on us again...another crib product recall. The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a recall of 1.2 million drop side Stork Craft cribs due to an entrapment and suffocation hazard. I know I have quite a bit of mom’s with babies/ toddlers who read this blog so please check your cribs to see if you have a Stork Craft crib manufactured between 1993-2009.

I will tell you this, the Stork Craft website is very slow to load, due to the crib recall, but you can follow them on Twitter. As far as I can see, they are not currently tweeting information regarding the recall, but you could tweet a question if the site stays down for an extended period of time. I am certain someone will answer.

Please visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission for specifics regarding the Stork Craft Crib recall as well as instructions on how to repair the defective part.

I was recently given the opportunity to try a good assortment of Newman's Own Organics products. One of them was some Fig Newman’s for Poppa Bear to try. He liked that they were bigger than Newtons (which let’s be honest, are the size of a postage stamp, and can be eaten by the sleeve). Other than that, he didn’t notice much difference in taste, which is good as he loves the more familiar version.









While I wish these contained whole wheat flour, compared to Fig Newton’s, Newman’s Own Organics the ingredient list is much more recognizable and has far fewer preservatives. And even the whole wheat fig newtons contain high fructose corn syrup and partially hydrogenized oils…yuck. So hopefully Newman’s Own Organics will add a whole wheat version to the line up soon!

What did I try? The Champion Chip Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cookies. These were very good with a deep chocolate flavor and delightful milk chocolate chips mixed in—best of both chocolate worlds. While I rarely enjoy crunchy cookies—I am a chewy girl through and through—these had a nice combination of softness, yet had enough crunchy to make for a good milk dunker or ice cream topper. In a way, they sort of resembled the consistency of a meringue. These were a delightful indulgence for an evening dessert. What did Little Bear think of them? "Mmmm." and "more" were the words of her choice.









Newman's Own Organics Dark Chocolate





Just about every year at Christmas, we'd all get a chocolate orange. I loved the combination of orange + chocolate, and I'd always look forward to getting (and eating!) my chocolate orange. A piece of Newman's Own Organics Dark Chocolate sent me hurtling back down memory lane. The fruity orange tones blended well with the quality chocolate. However, it's not the super dark chocolate that I know a lot of you like. I don't like my chocolate too dark, so it was a perfect combination for me. However, I think it's pretty universal flavored chocolate--if you like fruit + chocolate, you'll like it!

Newman's Own Organics Cinnamon Hermit Cookies










These cookies are soft and chewy! Since the package says they're cinnamon-flavored, I wish that flavor was more pronounced. I couldn't taste the cinnamon very well, but I did like the big molasses taste. The cookies had a few raisins, which I liked. They're slightly caloric for me-- 1 cookie is 80 calories. I cannot say these were delicious for me. I'm not a huge fan of molasses. Tho I like cookies that contain them, the molasses flavor was too empowering for me for this cookie - especially since the name was for "cinnamon". However, Poppa Bear is a huge fan of molasses and enjoyed these very much. If you love soft chewy cookies (and molasses), you'll probably adore these! If you're a fan of crunchy cookies, the Newman's Own Organics Champion Chip cookies are more up your ally.

Monday - Homemade Mac and Cheese
Tuesday - Taco Mac
Wednesday - Eggs and Bacon
Thursday - Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner....yummy!
Friday - Loaded Baked Potatoe with Salad
Saturday - BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Sunday - Loving Leftovers. Spread out a buffet table of all the leftovers from the week’s meals. This means a day-off for the chef!

For a thousand more recipes and hundreds more menu plans, check out I'm An Organizing Junkie!

Give the gift that keeps on giving!! Dave Ramsey's Books, CD's, DVDs, Software & More are on sale now for $10!! And if you spend over $65 you'll receive FREE Shipping! Dave Ramsey is fabulous. If you haven't read his books you NEED to! They will change your life!

For more Wordless Wednesday Photos, Visit 5 Minutes for Moms

Wahoo! It is that time again!! I've been awarded another bloggy award! The beautiful, super buff and dearest friend of mine, Genie at Third Wish awarded me with the Honest Scrap Award. I have to divulge 10 truths then tag seven bloggers who I think will also tell the truth. This should be fun!

1. I am THAT girl! The one that thinks, breathes and dreams Christmas almost 24/7, 365. I start playing Christmas music in October and shop/plan/organize all year long. My family and friends know me as "Little Miss Christmas." If it's too early for them and I start talking about it or they heard me playing my Christmas music they roll their eyes or make a smart remark but always end it with a chuckle because they know...i'm "Little Miss Christmas" My Mom will tell you i've had this passion for it since I was 12. I'd have to agree.
2. I can easily squat almost twice my body weight. Sadly that will never be again due to a back injury. I miss squatting...I miss it more than you will ever know!
3. Ever since having the Little Bear I have a very hard time starting and following through with my fitness regimes. So not like me! I'm a big, big, big fitness nut. My passion is my drive but since having the Little Bear it's been a bit hard for me to find it and hold onto it. Le Sigh...
4. I went from 122 to 208 when I was pregnant. Can you say Sumo Wrestler?!
5. I have this obsession with Little Bear's feet. They are just so tiny and soft and well, just so stinkin cute!
6. My closet is organized in a color coded fashion.
7. I absolutely, positively have an obssession for Chai Tea. I love it and cannot get enough of it - especially during this time of year.
8. I wet the bed until I was 12 years old. Oh yes, my bladder took a long time to develop and to this day I still visit the bathroom at least 20x a day. LOL!!!
9. My favorite books and movie of all time is Anne of Green Gables.
10. I always feel like the outsider. I've never been one to feel accepted in any sort of click, group, etc. which leaves me always feeling like I never fit in. The upside to this is tho that I know what I like and what I love and well, know who I am and at a young age.

Thanks for bestowing this award to me dearest Genie. And now, it's time for me to annouce the seven winners of this beautiful Honest Scrap Award. They are - and in no particular order....

Katie's Nesting Spot * A Natural Nester * Snip and Snail * A Homespun Heart * Bring On the Lloyds * The Masked Mommy * Classy and Sophisticated

Congratulations Ladies!

Monday - Lasagna & Salad
Tuesday - French Toast
Wednesday - Beef Pot Pies
Thursday - Porcuppien Meatballs, Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans
Friday - Chicken Quesidillas
Saturday - Sausage Jamalaya
Sunday - Loving Leftovers. Spread out a buffet table of all the leftovers from the week’s meals. This means a day-off for the chef!

For a thousand more recipes and hundreds more menu plans, check out I'm An Organizing Junkie!

If you have not shopped at Kohl's before, shame on you. Kohl's is fabulous! Why you ask? Well, I'm glad you asked.

The best part about Kohl's is thier acceptance to stacking coupons and sales. For example, say childrens clothing is on sale for 40-50% off (this is normal with this place) but on Saturday during the early bird specials they are taking an extra 15% off. Yes, you are able to stack the two. But wait, it doesn't stop there. You have a 20% off coupon from your email or mailbox. You can use that too! So, instead of your children's outfit for 40-50% off, you are getting it for up to 85% off. Isn't that AWESOME!!!! And these sales percentages happen weekly. The sales are that good and combine them with Early Bird Specials/Power Hours/ect and then have an extra coupon...... Oh yes, love me some Kohl's.

It just so happend that Saturday was their last day for the 50% off Children's Holiday dresses sale. There were no Early Bird or Power Hour specials to tack onto it so I couldnt add that discount (this time) but I did have a 15% off coupon to use. I managed to score Little Bear's holiday dress that is originally priced at $40.00 for $17.00!!!!!!! Isn't that great?!?! Oh yes, this Momma Bear was/is one happy camper!! I tried to get her Christmas PJ's also. The Carters line was on sale for 55% off. Sadly tho, they did not have any left in her size. POOTERS! Ah well, I'm hoping to check out Old Navy later on for that. (Walmart had no selection left in her size either. Le Sigh...)

Here's the dress we bought for Little Bear.....



Sorry it's a little dark and hard to see. The lighting in the house was very bright but for some reason the picture didnt take well. If I can find a better picture online I will update this post with it.

In the not so distant feature I will be adding some new content to my blog. It's information that I think will help benefit the readers who visit here daily. The new content will be for Product Reviews!! I am truly excited about this as I am sure you will be too. So, sit back, grab that cuppa coffee, tea, whatever your drink of choice and enjoy! See you soon in our first installment of Product Reviews. Til then..........

Hello and Happy Freebie Friday! Thanks from Heather at Freebies 4 Mom for all of this week's freebie finds. This week you will not want to miss Heather's 50 free photo cards freebie as I know it is something that I will be cashing in on to save this holiday season. This one is COMPLETELY free since shipping is covered too (good thru Nov. 30).

Health & Beauty
Huggies Little Movers Diaper (Walmart)
My Glow fragrance by Jennifer Lopez
Nature Made TripleFlex (Costco)

Food
Organic Valley $10 Coupon Book

Entertainment
50 Free Photo Cards Shipped Free (SeeHere by Fujifilm)
$5 off $5 Hallmark Coupon (inside Dec. magazines)
Disney Digital Books (7 book free trial, no credit card required)
Blockbuster Express Free Movie Rental (use code GT11A)

Home & Garden
GreenWorks Laundry Sample (text NATURAL to 467467)
$5 Academy Gift Card (birthday freebie)
Home Made Simple coupon bookCrayola Custom Coloring Pages (use code PR24QCHT)

Pets
Greenies (with Pet Smart coupon)

Upcoming Freebie Events:
Please call your local store or restaurant to confirm they are participating in these freebie events

Bass Pro Shops Santa's Wonderland begins (free 4x6 Santa photo)

14 - Fancy Nancy Fest at Borders storytime, activities, raffle 11 am

14 - Lakeshore Learning Kid Crafts make a Veteran's Day Flag 11-3

14 - Lowe's Build and Grow Clinic make a #48 Garage 10-11

20 - Disney Store Pajama Party storytime, games, snacks 5:30 & 7

21 - Lowe's Build and Grow Clinic make a Snowman 10-11

Enjoy those freebies and I'll see you next Friday for another installment of Freebie Friday - compliments of Freebies 4 Mom!

...and i'm not talking about the holiday's. No, Sir. I am talking about Cold and Flu Season. Le Sigh..

Poppa Bear came home yesterday evening looking pale, saying he felt achy and tired. This coming the day after he told me almost his entire shop has been sick with the flu. After settling in, he immediately went to CVS. We LOVE CVS! Of course this time we did not. Why? Well, we had no ECB's and no CVS coupons to use. I know, I know. How could I let that happen?!? After dinner and some medication induction, Poppa Bear fell asleep on the couch.

This morning, he woke up feeling much worse. He now has that crackling cough, full blown body aches and well, all the tell tale signs of the flu. Folks, let's hope not. Both he and myself have been without health insurance for the last three months. We won't be hopping onto my employer's until December 1st. That's in two weeks! Of course, worse case scenario we have to drive over to the Walgreens Take Care Clinic(because our CVS doesn't have a Minute Clinic)and get a prescription. We'll hit up the local Shoprite for our free antibiotics and then be on our way. Why didn't he get a flu shot you ask? Well, the last time he got one he got the flu. So, he's been on protest ever since. Either way, no one wants their family to suffer even if it's just the flu so here's to a speedy recovery for Poppa Bear.

As far as the Little Bear and I, we are both as healthy as can be. We had our flu shots about three weeks ago. Aside from the Little Bear's runny nose - which I am gathering is probably from her cutting her last few teeth - she's doing great! Now, to break out the Lysol spray, whip out the Clorox and disinfect this entire house for the next several days. We do not want these germs spreading from the Poppa Bear.

Here's to a speedy recovery for Poppa Bear.....

My blog is finally coming into it's own. It's finally starting to look and FEEL like my bloggy home. Horrah!!! Still some tweaking like widgets and the like but..."By Golly, I think I've got it!"

For more Wordless Wednesday Photos, Visit 5 Minutes for Moms

For the past year, I have 0o0o'd and ahhh'd at all the bloggers who have developed the art of knitting. Some were just beginning. Others were a year in. Some had years upon years of experience. While some were knitting washclothes, other's were knitting apparel for their young. Oh how I relished in every post I read about their knitting projects, experiences, mistakes. I wanted to learn to knit, goshdarnnit. By golly, I was going to learn!

While on the unemployment line, one would think I had an abundance of time to learn such skill. Boy, were they sadly mistaken. Yet each and every day I yearned and ached and thought about wanting to learn to knit. The days came and went right before my eyes. Every night would end with the same thought "guess I will learn to knit tomorrow." Sad, right?

One day, back in June, Little Bear and I made a trip to our local A.C. Moore's store. During this visit, she helped me pick out the yarn which would be used to make my very first project - a gift for her - a scarf. She had picked out a beautiful yarn and I was so very excited to use it. After, we went to pick out a set of needles. Having no experience or knowledge, we ventured up and down the knitting needles row trying to distinguish what size we wanted to go with. We already knew that most preferred the Bamboo over the Metal so we knew we wanted Bamboo. But what about the size? We ended up chosing a 10 - little did I later realize I should have went with the eight.

Did I learn to knit in June? Sadly, I did not. It was not until the second weekend of October - four months later that I learned the beautiful art of knitting. A neighbor just three houses down from us - also an AVON customer of mine was gracious enough to extend the offer several months prior to June to teach me. One Saturday, while taking her AVON order, I heard this little question in my head "Little Bear is down. It's the perfect opportunity to learn to knit. Ask her what she's doing?" So, after taking her order, I asked her if it would be a good time to come on over and have her teach me to knit. Score! She was not only available but eager and excited! I grabbed my supplies (Ball of Yarn, Set of 10 needles and two beginner books) and off I went.

The next two hours were the most enjoyable two hours of my life. Oh how we first talked about all her past projects. O0o0o'ing and ahhhhh'g at all her projects. We talked about all sorts of projects I could start on and even do later on. In the end, we chose to stick to the scarf for Little Bear. We realized the one yarn I had purchase would not be enough for any other project. It also would be good practice to get me started on knitting. Susan casted-on for me and then taught me the "knit" stitch. It wasn't long before I was on my way. Sure, for the first four days, I would make a mistake here and there and be right over there for her to fix it but after that, well, I was on my way.

I am almost done the scarf now. Have about eight more inches left. Susan will bind it off for me and then she'll teach me the "purl" stitch and I can work on Project #2, a hat to match the scarf I made for Little Bear. Ohhhhhhhhhh, how very excited I am.

I am truly enjoying every minute I have of knitting thus far. It soothes my soul. It is relaxing and gives me such a sense of accomplishment and pride. Knitting this scarf brought back so many memories of past projects I used to make. It reminded me why I loved crafting and what it did for my soul. Oh yes, I have finally relit that spark that has been in hibernation so long and I owe it all to the bloggers who wrote about it and for Susan for teaching me.

Happy Knitting!!!!

We hear it from every angle. Us Mom's need to make it a priority to find at least 60 minutes in the day for quality "me time." But how does any Mom find 60 minutes for something so trival as "me time" when there is dishes to be washed, laundry to fold, the children screaming for our undivided attention and let's not forget the husband who's asking us "what's for dinner?" Well, ladies, who says it has to be 60 minutes in one sitting? I know I haven't seen it anywhere in writing. Would it be nice? Heck Yeah! But is it really feasible for "me" 90% of the time. Sadly, it is not. But what if we switched the thinking? What if we found 60 minutes total in the day for "me time?" Now that, that my dear sweetnesses, I think we can all manage to do.

Oh, 60 minutes. How I envision thee. Might I spend my intervals knitting? perhaps reading? maybe exerise? perhaps just meditating and relishing in the moment? Oh the possibilities!!!!!!!!

Over the course of the last week, I've been deligently trying to get my 60 minute total fulfilled every day. Some days I might come up short but I know that there is always tomorrow. I have yet to have a 60 minute total moment in time but alas, I know it can be done - mostly on the weekends and only if I really, really, really dedicate myself to it versus the laundry awaiting me down below or the dishes to my right just staring at me. No, my dears. I may not have squeezed a full 60 minute time period but I have had five minutes here or 10 minutes there. They add up, baby!

Over the last week, I've spend my moments knitting Little Bears scarf and reading The first two volumns of The Vampire Diaries. I must confess tho, the majority of my time has been spent on the scarf. I've been knitting now for going on three weeks and I am just determined to finish this project. Not to mention the fact that I find the craft extremely relaxing. Ahhh, knitting. But, that's another topic for another time.

But i've been thinking, right now, my priority is to find those 60 minutes in a day. What I really want to do is to tweak it to where I've been able to fulfill three important areas -- Mind, Body and Spirit. Ideally, 20 minutes of each daily to total my 60 minutes. Doesn't this sound like such an awesome plan?!? I know. I rock. LOL! No, but seriously.......doesn't that sound like a great idea?

What I would like to do is something like this:

Mind - Reading of some sort. It can be reading on my breaks at work or at home. As long as I've gotten them in (which lately M-F it's during my two 15 min breaks)

Body - Any form of exercise whether it's the WiiFit, The Treadmill, Walking on my lunch break
or ideally what I want to do - Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred (since i started and never finished)

Spirit - Any form of crafting - right now knitting. It sooootheeeeees my soullllll. (And it's usually done during my 30 minute lunch as of late)

Can ya dig it????

Hiddy Hoooo There Neighbors!

How was your first weekend for the month of November? I certainly hope you made it a great one! After all, for most it is the first weekend that they started to think about Christmas. Perhaps to start budgetting, planning, shopping, organizing, cleaning, whatever the case may be. What about me - Little Miss Christmas known to many? Well, you might just be surprised.......

My weekend started off without a hitch. Poppy, also known as my Dad, was going to be watching the Little Bear for us for the day. Grandmom, aka my Mother-in-Law, is on a recovery phrase for the knee surgery she just undergone. Everyone in the family is helping to watch Little Bear until she's fully recovered and can go back to watching her for us. Little Bear LOVED her time with Poppy and I enjoyed the fact that I only had to travel two minutes to drop her off. It also meant getting home even earlier after work. Wahoo! What a way to start the weekend!

Friday evening was closed out with a nice taco dinner (that Little Bear so graciously denied. She's going through a significant picky eatter stage but that's another story for another time). After dinner, the little and I read some books together on our big comfy couch. Closing the night with snuggle time. After she went to bed, I spent some time with my needles and yarn. That's right folks, this girl has learned to knit in her disappearance. (Again, we'll save this for another post)

Saturday was engrossed with lots and lots of mundane tasks such as cleaning the house, doing the laundry, grocery shopping and other various errands. Sounds exciting huh? But wait, it gets better.......The little and I went through the Toys R Us Big Book. Yup, we "0o00o0'd" and "ahhhh'd" at all the glorious toys that just put that sparkle in her eye. Later that night, Poppa Bear and I went through a preliminary list of what we might want to get her for Christmas. (Attn: Readers....any suggestions for a Toddler who's turning 2 for toys? We need some guidance here. LOL! I goggled but surprisingly not much came up)

Alas, we closed out Sunday with a fairly easy day. Ran to CVS to score three packs of Huggies Diapers. They were on sale this week and I had two $2.00 off coupons and one $1.50 off. It was my first stop in the morning since this store is known to only carry four packs on the shelf. If you don't get there fast enough...well, you get the picture. We got lucky this time. They had six packs and I snatched up three. SCORE! When I got back, it was off to the Little's favorite store --- Walmart! The girl LOVES Walmart folks. It's ridiculous and funny! We couldn't venture in tho without playing in the Christmas Aisle before we went on our hunt for what was on the Grocery List. Oh the fun she had! Oh the "If Only I could" list I was daydreaming in my head......

We wrapped the weekend up with a trip to Poppy's house. Little Bear wanted to see him and he wanted to my nephews to watch Aliens in the Attic that Poppa Bear rented for us earlier in the weekend. After Poppy's visit, we had our creative time. She colored. She drew. She had a ball. Then it was lunch and nap time. Followed by a visit from her Aunt Margie (Also known as my Sister!). It was a very nice visit and I was so glad she stopped by. Speaking of....My dearest Sister just found out a few weeks ago that she is expecting her very first child. I'm so excited for her but also for the fact of having another baby in the family. I miss when the Little was a baby. What? time for another one you say? Ahhh, don't I wish. Sadly, that will have to wait just a little bit longer that I would like. It's okay tho.

I never did get around to readjusting this blog layout like I had wanted to. *sigh* Maybe I'll get lucky and have some time today or week even. Even if it's just to get this crazy Labels section less cluttered. I have entirely too many labels here. LOL!!

All and all, a not too shabby weekend here in my neck of the woods. Lots of time with the Little and that's just how I like it.

Blah. I really have been disliking my blog. It just has not felt like home to me. Something about it just isnt making it comfortable for me. I think it's the design, the layout selection and other various add-on's on the end. My guess is, it is for that reason i've been so reluctant to post here. For this, I apologize to my faithful readers.

It is my hopes that over the next few days to tweak this blog to where it is much more comfortable. At a place where I can post fairly frequently again. I am not going to go with a specific theme. Every one is doing the frugal thing anymore. My last blog title was Frugal, Fit and Fabulous but honestly, even tho it pretty much sums up my life it lacks one important element, Family. So, for now, until I can come up with a good title, it's just going to be "Hello World! It's Just Me." If you have an idea for a blog title for me, do feel free to share in the comments. I always am open to fresh ideas, suggestions, constructive critisism (spelling?) and the likes. Plus, it feels good to know my readers care. :o)

That about sums up what will be going on over in this side of the blog for the next few days. Please be patient if some things come and go or the look continues to change and evolve. I'll get it ironed out shortly. In the meantime, thank you for your patience.

And on that note, dust is calling my name, the vaccum keeps staring at me and I have a Little Bear here screaming for attention that I might join her to play with her in her kitchen. Ahhh, the joys of Motherhood......Til next time folks........Have a beautiful day and stay warm because "Baby, it's cold outside."

That's right...HURRY on over to Luvs.com and grab your $5.00 off coupon. It's only available for today only and only until their limit is reached. ACT NOW before they are all printed off and you miss this opportunity to possibly get a Jumbo Pack for FREE (coupon+sale price at your local store depending). I already claimed mine...now, what are you waiting for?

Happy Friday! Welcome to another installment of Freebie Friday with tons of freebies courtesy of Freebies 4 Mom.

Health and Beauty
L'Oreal Advanced Revitalift (log in or register)
Clarins Facial Treatment
Roots of Nature Conditioner
Lacoste Fragrances

Food
Dunkin' Donuts Coffee
Total Blueberry Pomegranate Cereal
True LemonSchwan's $10 Free Food for new customers (starts Aug. 1)
Jack in the Box 2 Free Tacos Tuesday
Kraft $25 Free Food after rebate (starts Aug. 7)
Mars Free Chocolate Friday

Home & Garden
Bottle of Gain (create a video at Tryology)
Gain with Febreeze
National Night Out organizational kit

Upcoming Freebie Events:
Please call your local store or restaurant to confirm they are participating in these freebie events.


AUGUST
Staples Teacher Appreciation Days free gift bag to first 100 teachers
1 - Lakeshore Free Kid Crafts make a friendship frame 11-3pm
1 - The Home Depot Kids Workshop make a message center 9-noon
1 & 2 - Museums on Us (free admission for Bank of America customers)
3 - McDonald's Free Mocha Monday 7am-7pm
4 - Jack in the Box 2 free tacos Noon-11:59pm
4 - National Night Out
8 - Lowes Build and Grow Kids Clinic make a powerboat 10-11am
15 & 16 - National Parks Fee Free Weekend
22 - Lowes Build and Grow Kids Clinic make a schoolbus 10-11am

SEPTEMBER
5 - The Home Depot Kids Workshop make a bean bag toss 9-noon
26 - Free Museum Day

That about sums up this weeks freebies. Be sure to visit next Friday for even more incredibly awesome freebies.

Welcome to another installment of Thirsty Thursday! Every Thursday I will post a beverage recipe of my choosing. Whether it is a family recipe, a recipe found online or a recipe from one of my readers you will be sure to receive a beverage recipe to refresh all your taste buds.

This week's Thirsty Thursday recipe is for......

Genie's Green Monster

INGREDIENTS
150g baby spinach
1 banana
1 scoop protein powder (Chocolate Ultimate Muscle Provider by Beverly International or Chocolate by All they Whey)
1/2-1c water

DIRECTIONS
Put all in a blender/juicer and blend, blend, blend.

For more Green Monster recipes, check out Angela's site, Green Monster Movement and click on Reader's Recipes.

Have a fabulous beverage recipe that you'd care to share? I'm excited to try all the new recipes you might add. Who knows, we might be featuring your recipe next week.

If you have a ceiling fan, you’re probably well aware of the layer of dust that accumulates on top of the blades.

One of the easiest ways to clean a ceiling fan is to take a pillow case, slip it over the blade and wipe off the dust bunnies. The dust falls conveniently into the pillow case, not onto the floor or furniture. After dusting each blade, take the pillow case outside, turn it inside out and shake out the dust. Repeat as needed for each fan!

Find more Works for Me Wednesday tips at We Are THAT Family.

As you all know, i've been employed for almost seven weeks now. Long story about how it all came about but the ending is still the same - I lost my job of seven years. I was angry. I was sad. I was hurt. Then, it was time to put on my big girl panties and move on.

I have been actively seeking new employment now for seven weeks. Jobs are becoming more readily available, however, the competition is fierce. I was competiting with anywhere between 800 and 1200 applicants. Insane, right? I would be a fool if I said I was not at least slightly worried. I was but I had faith and sometimes that is all you can have.

When job hunting, we all know the basics - get the resume nice and polished, create a excellent selling cover letter and make sure you have a few references under your belt ready and available. Then comes the search! I don't know how you were taught but I was always taught to apply for the jobs that are advertised but the key to landing a job faster is to apply to places that aren't advertising. That's always been the trick for me.

When I am searching for new employment I always do the same things. I first apply at a few temp agencies. This always has my bottom covered incase I cannot find employment or need money fast. They offer temp positions (days, weeks, months) and temp to perm positions (temp for 90 days then permanent). After I've done that I immediately set up my accounts on CareerBuilders, Monster and maybe one or two others if they are out there. I then immediately start to search the sites and submit my resumes to all that I feel would interest me or be considered for. I would follow up on those sites daily, as well as Craigslist. Be careful with Craigslist. A good majority of them are SCAMS! A good way to weed them out is to look very closely at the ads. Check the email address. Does it say end with an @gmail.com? Chances are it's a SCAM! How about the salary amount at the bottom. It's like the old saying goes "If it's too good to be true it probably is." Same applies here. If the ad's salary sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Next up, I open up the phone book. I look over all the local businesses first to see if any would interest me. I then look up online if they have an email address. If so, I will email them my resume for consideration. No email? 1972 it is and one will be mailed. Then, of course, you have the old fashioned way of just walking into an establishment and submitting your application and resume that way. This way takes A LOT of work but it can be worth it - as I'm about to show you.

Three weeks ago I was drafting up my Walk-In Applying game plan. I was planning what areas/business parks I wanted to hit on what days. I say "days" because in my area we have quite a few business parks around us. All of which have a substantial amount of businesses in them. What a perfect opportunity! One I was not about to miss. There was one business park in particular I wanted to visit. It is only about eight to 10 minutes from our home. It would be ideal and absolutely perfect! Along those lines, there were also quite a few companies I would love to work for in that park - one in particular.

It's a company that delivers produce to the entire area. It's family owned and although the business has taken off substantially over the last few years it is fairly small - around 100-200. Certainly a different atmosphere from my last employer. I'm a big health nut so wanting to work for a fruit and vegetable supplier should come as no surprise to all of you. What is even better about this company is that they try to buy from local farmers as much as they can. I especially love this fact. We have to help support the local farmers because without them, where would we be? A job at this company would be a dream come true for me.

The day I had planned to do my walk-in application submissions just so happened to be the day that this company had two positions open. They also already had posted them on an online job site. Great! If I applied a few days earlier I'd have no competion. Now, I'm competting with hundreds, maybe a thousand applicants. Alas, I am determined and will apply anyway.

Three weeks ago was when I applied for this particular company. A week later, I got a phone call for an interview with the HR Director and my potential boss. A week after that, I was being called for a second interview with the CEO. A week after that brings us to yesterday and I was called with a job offer!!!

It is like a dream come true. I also cannot help but to say that it also is probably fate. The way this entire situation with this company has panned out. It just seems like everything aligned. Here is where it gets even better.

I will be doing the same thing I have done for the last 15 years. Even better, the offer was for a slight increase than what I was making at my previous employer. Also, in three years time my new boss is hoping to retire. If/When this happens, they would like to promote me into that roll. The thought is since I will already be working so closely with this individual and know the jobs it would only make sense. This job description would be a significant change from my current one - one that would normally not be able to obtain unless you have a college degree (which I have not finished). This would also mean a significant salary increase. How awesome is that?! So, for the next three years I have a goal - learn everything I can, work to my absolute best and in the end, I will be rewarded. These are all things I would normally do even if I did not have a goal in place but this....this...just makes it so much more exciting. So much more worthy. So much more....well, you get the picture.

So, I get to enjoy two more weeks of Summer off spending time with the Little Bear. I cannot say I am 100% happy and excited about this. I mean, I am but I am also sad. Sad that I have to go back to work leaving Little Bear for at least 40 or so hours a week. It breaks my heart. I will miss her so very much. It will be a rough adjustment for she and I when the time does come. However, I do know that in the end we will adapt well - as we have done in the past. It is, of course, mixed emotions at this time but ones that I am sure will pass and will prove to be worth it in the end.

Time to start writing that next chapter in this book called life.........

The internet is so great! So many things available for us from services to information. I love the fact that because of the internet I no longer have to wait in line for the perfect toy or shoe. What I love even more is clubs such as Netflix or Blockbuster that "takes the drama out of renting." It was a superb idea!! No more traveling to and from the video rental store wasting time and gas only to find out the movie you wanted wasn't available. But the clubs on the internet do not just stop at movie rentals folks. Nope! You've got video game rentals for the gamers. (I'll post about that one another time) You also have a club for Book Rentals. For an avid reader such as myself, this is a perfect club!!

Let me introduce you to BookSwim. BookSwim is the online book rental library service lending you paperbacks, hardcovers and college textbooks Netflix-style directly to your house, without the need to purchase! They stock all the latest bestsellers, new releases, classics & much much more. With BookSwim, I no longer have a book I am longing to read only to get to the library and find out it's already rented out or worse - they do not carry it! It's always such a disappointment. A horrible feeling when you enjoy to read as much as myself. Nope, with BookSwim, the book that I am interested in reading at that time is always readily available. Oh how I love my BookSwim.

Right now you can get unlimited book rentals starting at only $9.95 a month with Free Shipping! To get more details & watch a Free Video on how it works click here!

I do not know about you but I just LOVE McDonalds' Cafe Mochas. I am not really a fan of the hot, don't know why, but I just ADORE the Iced Cafe Mocha. Been getting them for about two years now or so? I know it's been awhile.

When I heard the news a week or so ago that every Monday between 7 am and 7 pm you can stop to get your choice of a 7 ounce iced McCafe or 8 ounce hot McCafe FREE I was estatic! Could this be? My favorite drink for FREE?! The great news is that there is no additional purchase necessary. It's one per customer per Monday & while supplies last. McDonald's says The McCafe Mocha is the sweet side of expresso. To get all the details click here!

In your travels today, do stop by your local McDonald's for your Free Iced or Hot Cafe Mocha. I know that during all the running around that I have to do today, I'll be stopping by. The Iced Cafe Mocha is just the right pick me up to carry me through the afternoon. It's also going to be the perfect treat to cool me off during one very hot and humid day.

Slight repeat from last week. It turned out that I had a lot of stuff in the fridge/freezer already bought that I had to use before it went bad. Needless to say, that made menu planning and food shopping super easy (and cheap!) this week.

Monday - Amish Casserole. This rich creamy casserole frugal recipe is a grocery-budget saver with basic frugal cooking ingredients to make up a traditional “comfort food” dish.

Tuesday - Lasagna and Caesar Salad

Wednesday - Center Cut Pork Chops and Mashed Yellow Squash (Dh's favorite. Grilled squash for DD and I)

Thursday - Spaghetti and Meatballs, Side Salad, Garlic Bread/Roll n Butter (Dh doesn't like garlic)

Friday - Frozen Pizza Night (Dh's favorite!)

Saturday - Grilling Night --- Cheeseburgers with all the fixins

Sunday - Loving Leftovers. Spread out a buffet table of all the leftovers from the week’s meals. This means a day-off for the chef!

For a thousand more recipes and hundreds more menu plans, check out I'm An Organizing Junkie!

The school supplies are continuing this week. As always, you will want to get there early to receive the best selections. Now, don't forget to get your raincheck if they are out of stock on an item.

School Supplies Deals – Sun. Through Tues. Only

Caliber 100 Page Composition Books $.99
Earn .99 ECBs (limit 2)
FREE after ECBs!

Caliber Pencil or Index Card Case $.99
Earn .99 ECBs (limit 2)
FREE after ECBs!

Pilot Easytouch Pen 2 Pk $.99
Earn .99 ECBs (limit 2)
FREE after ECBs!

CVS Tampons $1.89
Earn 1.89 ECBs (limit 1)
FREE after ECBs!

ECB Deals

Kashi 3/$10Earn 5 ECBs (limit 1)

$1.50/1 printables here, here, here and here.

I LOVE New York and Company. It also just so happens that I am lining up a new job (hopefully!) and need some work attire since my last employer was very laid back. I just LOVE New York and Company's clothing. They are so comfortable and last such a LONG time. It's totally worth the investment. So, when I found this coupon I just had to share. I am giddy with excitement. Hello New York & Company! Here I come....

Print this coupon and get $30 off a $75 purchase (or double it for $ 60 off a $150 purchase!) at New York & Company. This one has no expiration date but I’d print it now if you plan to use it, just to be safe! Let's face it...these type of coupons go FAST and you wouldn't want to miss this deal! It's one hellofa steal!

Happy Friday! Welcome to another installment of Freebie Friday with tons of freebies courtesy of Freebies 4 Mom.

Health and Beauty
Origins Mini-Facials (thru Aug. 2)
Hugo Boss fragrances
Bodycology body lotion (Walmart)
Goodnites (Walmart)
Being Girl Always & TampaxPlaytex Sport (Walmart)
Carefree and Stayfree (Walmart)

Food
Mars Free Chocolate Friday
Caribou Coffee Cooler or Brownie (Facebook fans)
Splenda

Home & Garden
National Night Out organizational kit
Viva towels (Walmart)
Ziploc Healthy Lunch Box Ideas recipe book download (enter 2 Ziploc UPCs)
What to Expect Guide to a Healthy Home (download from Clorox)
Window Covering Safety Council Retrofit Kit

Upcoming Freebie Events:
Please call your local store or restaurant to confirm they are participating in these freebie events.

JULY
25 - Lakeshore Free Kid Crafts make a buggy welcome sign 11-3pm
25 - Lowes Build and Grow Kids Clinic make a helicopter 10-11am
27 - McDonald's Free Mocha Monday 7am-7pm

AUGUST
Staples Teacher Appreciation Days free gift bag to first 100 teachers
1 - The Home Depot Kids Workshop make a message center 9-noon
1 & 2 - Museums on Us (free admission for Bank of America customers)
4 - National Night Out
8 - Lowes Build and Grow Kids Clinic make a powerboat 10-11am
15 & 16 - National Parks Fee Free Weekend

That about sums up this weeks freebies. Be sure to visit next Friday for even more incredibly awesome freebies.

Welcome to the first installment of Thirsty Thursday! It is my goal that every Thursday I will post a beverage recipe of my choosing. Whether it is a family recipe, a recipe found online or a recipe from one of my readers you will be sure to receive a beverage recipe to refresh all your taste buds.

This week's Thirsty Thursday recipe is for......

Best Lemonade Ever
compliments of Allrecipes.com

PREP TIME 30 Min
COOK TIME 5 Min
READY IN 4 Hrs 35 Min

SERVINGS
20 Servings

INGREDIENTS
1 3/4 cups white sugar
8 cups water
1 1/2 cups lemon juice

DIRECTIONS
In a small saucepan, combine sugar and 1 cup water. Bring to boil and stir to dissolve sugar. Allow to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate until chilled.

Remove seeds from lemon juice, but leave pulp. In pitcher, stir together chilled syrup, lemon juice and remaining 7 cups water.

I am hoping to add a Mr. Linky in the future but in the meantime, have a fabulous beverage recipe that you'd care to share? Comment and add it for all to see....I am excited to try everyone's yummy beverages.

If you are one of the many who have not been receiving those $/$$ coupons from CVS, cheer up! It has been reported that there are new CVS booklets coming out on August 1st that will contain some great coupons including (2) $4/$20 coupons! How awesome is that?!

Mine are usually located at the front cashier. She will put one in every customer's bag. However, if that's not the case at your store, just look near your pharmacy counter for booklets that say “Thanks for asking about auto refill”. This is not true for my local CVS branch but maybe for you -- some women are reporting that that some counters already have the booklets out, so it is a good idea to keep an eye out for them each time you visit CVS!

If you have already found any of these coupon booklets at your CVS please leave us a comment letting us know. :o)

As if today couldn't be any better. (It is my birthday today after all) Starbuck's is making it even better. For today only, July 21st, stop by StarBuck's from open to 10:30 am and enjoy a pastry free! You must purchase a beverage to receive the free pastry.



To Print your Starbucks Coupon click here!

This week is all about frugal meals. Enjoy!

Monday - Hot Dogs on the Grill and BBQ Beans

Tuesday - Amish Casserole. This rich creamy casserole frugal recipe is a grocery-budget saver with basic frugal cooking ingredients to make up a traditional “comfort food” dish.

Wednesday - Breakfast for Dinner

Thursday - Spaghetti and Meatballs, Side Salad, Garlic Bread/Roll n Butter (Hubby doesn't like garlic)

Friday - 15-Minute Dinner Nachos Supreme. This frugal ground beef recipe was created by Campbell’s and looks scrumptious!

Saturday - Lasagna and Caesar Salad

Sunday - Loving Leftovers. Spread out a buffet table of all the leftovers from the week’s meals. This means a day-off for the chef!

For a thousand more recipes and hundreds more menu plans, check out I'm An Organizing Junkie!

The school supplies are continuing this week. As always, you will want to get there early to receive the best selections. Now, don't forget to get your raincheck if they are out of stock on an item.

School Supplies Deals – Sun. Through Tues. Only

Caliber or CVS Filler Paper (150 sheets), $2
Get $2 ECBs (limit 2)
FREE after ECBs!

Caliber or CVS Memo Book (50-80 sheets), $0.99
Get $0.99 ECBs (limit 2)
FREE after ECBs!

Caliber or CVS No. 2 Pencils (24-ct.), $1.99
Get $1.99 ECBs (limit 2)
FREE after ECBs!

PaperMate 1.2 Pens (10-ct.), $0.99
Get $0.99 ECBs (limit 2)
FREE after ECBs!

Vinyl 1″ Binder, $3
Get $3 ECBs (limit 2)
FREE after ECBs!

ECB Deals

Speed Stick Pro Deodorant, $2.99
Get $2 ECBs (limit 2)
$1.50/1 Speed Stick printable (zip code specific)
$1/1 Speed Stick (Reinventing Beauty insert)
As low as better than FREE after coupon and ECBs!

Kodak Picture Movie DVD, $9.99
Get $9.99 ECBs (limit 5)
FREE after ECBs!

CVS Pantiliners (22-ct.), $0.89
Get $0.89 ECBs (limit 1)
FREE after ECBs!

Band-Aid, Johnson & Johnson or Neosporin Products, psa $2.99
Get $5 wyb $10 (limit 5)
$1/1 Neosporin printable (IE) or printable (FF)
$1/1 Johnson’s printable (IE) or printable (FF)
$1/1 Various Coupons (RP 4/26/09, RP 5/17/09, and SS 6/28/09)
As low as $0.74 ea. after 4 coupons and ECBs!

Colgate Max Fresh or Max White Toothpaste, $2.99
Get $1 ECBs (limit 1)
$1/1 Colgate Max White printable (enter your zip code)
$1/1 Colgate Max White printable
$0.75/1 Colgate Toothpaste, exp. 7-18-09 (SS 6/28/09)
As low as $0.99 after coupon and ECBs!

Duracell Batteries, $2.99
Get $1 ECBs (limit 1)
$0.75/1 Duracell Batteries, exp. 7-31-09 (V 6/28/09)
$0.75/1 Duracell Batteries, exp. 8-31-09 (V 7/12/09)
$1.24 after coupon and ECBs!

Backpacks, psa $7.99
Get $5 ECBs (limit 2)
As low as $2.99 after ECBs!

Happy Friday! Welcome to another installment of Freebie Friday with tons of freebies courtesy of Freebies 4 Mom. Be sure to enter Heather's e.l.f Cosmetics Giveaway to upgrade your make-up and take advantage of her exclusive coupon code.

Health and Beauty
Vaseline Aloe Fresh lotion (Costco)
Bodycology Hand & Body Lotion (Walmart)
Pampers Potty Training KitGoodNites Underpants (Walmart)
Always InfinityPlaytex Sport (Walmart)

Food
Mars Free Chocolate FridayStarbucks Ice Cream (coupon for free pint on Facebook)
Tyson Skillet Creations (free after rebate)

Upcoming Freebie Events:
Please call your local store or restaurant to confirm they are participating in these freebie events.

JULY
18 - Lakeshore Free Kid Crafts make ice cream cone pencil holder 11 to 3pm
18-19 - National Parks Fee Free Weekend
19 - Bruster's National Ice Cream Day
20 - McDonald's Free Mocha Monday 7am to 7pm
25 - Lowes Build and Grow Kids Clinic make a helicopter 10 to 11am

AUGUST
Staples Teacher Appreciation Days free gift bag to first 100 teachers
1 - The Home Depot Kids Workshop make a message center 9 to noon
1 & 2 - Museums on Us (free admission for Bank of America customers)
15 & 16 - National Parks Fee Free Weekend

That about sums up this weeks freebies. Be sure to visit next Friday for even more incredibly awesome freebies.

As we all know, I started my AVON business back in January. I cannot begin to tell you how much AVON has changed my life over the last seven months. It started off as extra income in our pockets and now, I'm working on my goal to acquire enough customers and team members (stay tuned for details in the coming sentences...) that I can eventually become a work-from-home Mom with my AVON business.

Having my own AVON business means so much.....

It means that I can work my own hours around my schedule so my time with the family is not compromised. Having flexible hours means that if you are a Mom you can get the kids to dance & football! You can even bring your kids to work with you. (My Little Bear is also known as Mommy's Little AVON Helper.)

It means that I am my OWN BOSS!!! No one to tell me what time to report in or clock out. No one to fire me. No one to cut me a check! It's all about ME and MY NEEDS!

Let me share with you this AWESOME OPPORTUNITY that I was given By A Mom - For Us Moms. It really is the PERFECT opportunity. There really is no risk to give this a try.....

Avon has been in business for 120 years and they have helped many women achieve their goals and dreams.

It can do the same for you! AVON has offered both women and men a unique chance to start a home based business and to make it grow. Today, three million independent representatives are taking advantage of that opportunity. And there is always room for more. Success is truly within your reach. Sell some of the most innovative and popular skin care and beauty products in the world.

BE YOUR OWN BOSS!
* Make YOUR own hours, develop YOUR own customers!
* Sell from YOUR own home, office or anywhere YOU like! (I've been selling in the Park on my laptop or even to park visitors during a visit with my daughter)
* Set YOUR own goals - what you put in is what YOU get out! (My first goal was to earn extra income so we could pay off some debt. Now that that goal is reached, I am reaching for an even bigger goal - make this a full time job so I can work from home and be with my daughter)

HERE’S HOW YOU EARN:
* To START YOUR AVON Business, there are NO Credit Checks or Requirements.
* YOU must be at least 18 years old.
* Startup costs the LOWEST of any direct sales company! You do not have to buy inventory!
* Earn 50% Commission (Limited Time Only)!
* Health Benefits and Savings Plans also offered!
* NO Minimum Order!
* NO Sales Quotas
* NO Inventory to buy!

EARN EVEN MORE---
Expand YOUR business by becoming an AVON Beauty Advisor, doing Fundraisers or Selling On-Line as an eRepresentative.

I cannot begin to tell you how much I LOVE being an AVON Representative. I'm also an AVON Beauty Advisor, an online eRepresentative and Fundraising Specialist. I love AVON so much that I am trying to reach every Mom I possibly can to share this opportunity.

My AVON business has grown by leaps and bounds over the last seven months. I now have my own AVON team called Team Rising Stars. I currently have about 22 women on my team and we are all striving for the same goal - financial independence all while we are our OWN BOSS!!! It's wonderful to see my ladies succeed and help them to reach their goals.

I would LOVE to have you on my team! Want to JOIN AVON and START MAKING MORE MONEY TODAY?!

Go to: http://www.start.youravon.com
Enter Reference Code: krementer

That's it. Yes! AVON has made it that much easier now that you can SIGN UP ONLINE! In the comfort of your own home!

JOIN my AVON team today and you will not only receive your Welcome Kit from AVON but I will also send you my own personal packet full of information that will help build your business!

With AVON you are not in business by yourself but FOR yourself. I will be with you every step of the way to help you achieve your goals!

Have more questions?????? Email me at kathie (dot) rementer (at) hotmail (dot) com. That's my AVON business email and I'll help answer what ever questions you may have.

So what are you waiting for??? JOIN AVON TODAY!!!!!

Not interested in joining but what to purchase products??? Please visit my store website at http://www.beautyvendor.com . Would like a brochure mailed to your home? Email me and I'll get one right out to you.

Whew! Talk about a disappearance, eh? So sorry about that.

It is very hard to find balance and a new routine when your old one is thrown all out of whack. As you all know, I lost my job at the beginning of last month. Such a long, crazy story and let's just say when you give a company your all for seven years and was always recognized for such - then to have your employment halted suddenly just HURTS. After all the emotional rollercoasting, I've accepted it and am moving on.

The bright side to being laid off was the timing. I was laid off at the very beginning of the Summer. How nice is that?! I get to spend time, at home, with my darling Little Bear. We have been enjoying it immensely.

There has been a lot of small trips to the zoo, to the mall, to the park and everywhere inbetween. We've crafted. We've shopped. We've spent lots of time in the sun. We've even developed - both she and I.

I have a lot of adventures to catch you all up on. And yes, we will have pictures as well. I think, with this whole blogging experience that has been a big change for me; to take pictures of my life all day long. LOL!! It's taking some getting used to but you know what, I love the fact that our lives are being journaled. Now, if only I could get caught up in my scrapbooking. LOL!!!

During my time at home, I have been actively seeking work. Very aggressively also. I have probably submitted over 80 resumes by now. Have gone on three interviews with another one this Thursday. The competition is fierce but I have a feeling I will find something soon.

I have also started to work a bit more aggressively with my AVON business. Once I got laid off, I actually reversed back and instead of going full force as I was before and could really do being a stay at home Mom for the time being, I actually stepped a few steps back from it. As such, my AVON profits have been lagging. Not good when you're unemployed. So, it's back to it FULL FORCE and I think you will LOVE some of the new things AVON has to offer. (Yes, it will be a part of my blog!)

On the fitness front, I'm getting very close to my goal weight. Tho the weight in numbers is almost there, my body is not. I'm very squishy and have noticed in my weight loss a good portion of it was muscle mass. This is NOT good and NOT something anyone would want. So, another advantage of this time off is to get back into a Fitness Regime FAITHFULLY and stick to it. My current weight is 128. My goal is 115/120. I would prefer my body fat percentage to be about 18-20% which includes a lot of muscle mass. Wish me luck! And yes, that will be a part of this blog too. ;o)

In the coming week or so, I will also have a lovely suprise for you here at Frugal, Fit and Fabulous! I think that all my lovely readers are really going to start enjoying things around here and I hope that if you do, you will spread the word. I LOVE my readers and I LOVE your comments. So, please, if you have any suggestions, thoughts or just want to say 'hey' please do! I will try to comment back as soon as possible also.

Enjoy and Happy Reading!

Hi Everyone!

Sorry for the unannouced missing in action. Things have been CRAZY! Work was super busy. Then I was put in the unemployment line. Add that into the other at-home craziness and well, now you can see why I haven't posted. Sorry.

In the midst of it all, I also lost all my blogs i followed in my favorites - amongst other sites too. Going to be hard getting those back.

Anyway, wanted to post a quick update. I'll try to get in and post a more detailed update shortly. For now, gotta go. The Little is requiring my undivided attention. LOL