I love going to this website every day at noon and checking what the daily deals are. The best items usually sell out super duper fast which makes it a bit of a race for the best items. But even if you are late, there are still decent products available. I figure if I look at it every day for the next 9 months I might find some good deals on Christmas gifts. Always good to start early, right?
Items they sell range from accessories, to clothes, to games, to makeup products, and more. They have items for kids, woman, and men. There is something for everyone. I have been watching this sight for a while trying to find an awesome purse that I could buy as I need a new one. No luck yet but I still have hope.
A few things that make the website different than others I have joined is that they don't have as much of a selection every day and they are not always designer/boutique items. But that allows for really great prices on the items they do select to sell.
I encourage you to start checking out this website. One day you just might run into a great deal on something you have been wanting.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Thursday, March 17, 2011
I am...
Liking this: the game shows. So true and so funny.
Reading this: For Woman Only: What You Need To Know about the Inner Lives of Men
Missing this already
Counting down the days for this lovely show to start.
Reminding myself to:
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Reading this: For Woman Only: What You Need To Know about the Inner Lives of Men
Missing this already
Counting down the days for this lovely show to start.
Reminding myself to:
Chalkboards
If the sweater becomes free, I didn't do it.
(pic via my phone)
Chalkboards have made it onto the list of chick decor items of the year. Or at least I think they have based on all the pictures I have seen of chalkboards and chalkboard paint being used. I think they are great when used the right way. Not sure yet how I feel about having a wall turned into a chalkboard in my bedroom or kitchen but it could be way fun in a play room or kids bedroom. There are definitely many useful and cute ways to use chalkboards in decor all throughout the home and in party decor.
Via: 1. Full House 2. a beach cottage 3. attic mag
4. the city sage 5. ElegALA 6. gfout etsy shop
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Spaces I Love
When I have my perfect house, which the hubby so pessimistically says is never, I want this nook for my guest room:
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Monday, March 14, 2011
Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior
I am a huge fan of Criminal Minds and though I was not super excited about a spin-off of it, I thought I would give the new show a try. Try it I did and the show gets a solid C from me. As to be expected, the original Criminal Minds blows it out of the water.
The story aspect is good. While many people think that there is nothing new in crime television, I disagree, and the handful of episodes released so far have had original enough material. Some a bit too gruesome for me but that's to be expected.
My real problem with the show is the casting. The casting is HORRRIBBLLEEE!!!! One of the things that makes the original Criminal Minds so great is that the cast works well together. They are all good enough actors, their character's quirks shine through, and you begin to care for them on some level.
But the characters in this new show are not like that at all. There are a few characters I could see myself liking, but together as a whole, they do nothing for the show. They are so boring and unoriginal.
My 3 main problems with the casting:
The story aspect is good. While many people think that there is nothing new in crime television, I disagree, and the handful of episodes released so far have had original enough material. Some a bit too gruesome for me but that's to be expected.
My real problem with the show is the casting. The casting is HORRRIBBLLEEE!!!! One of the things that makes the original Criminal Minds so great is that the cast works well together. They are all good enough actors, their character's quirks shine through, and you begin to care for them on some level.
But the characters in this new show are not like that at all. There are a few characters I could see myself liking, but together as a whole, they do nothing for the show. They are so boring and unoriginal.
My 3 main problems with the casting:
I just can't get over the fact that Forest Whitaker is the head honcho. I would rather have someone less famous. Maybe he will grow on me but I still wish they had chosen someone else.
I will admit upfront that I'm not a fan of Janeane Garofalo. I don't agree with much that comes out of her mouth these days. But I did like her character in 24 well enough so I know I am not completely biased against her acting. With that said, I think she is wrong for this show. It may just be her character that is lame but something about her doesn't fit this show at all. I just want to gag every time she says something.
I love Kirsten Vangsness but they shouldn't have recycled her. She fits into the original Criminal Minds so well and I wish they would have left it at that. She doesn't work as well with the cast of Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior and it makes me sad.
I will be very upset if they try and make any more Criminal Minds spin-offs. At the very least CBS, I ask that you not recycle the show as much as you did with CSI. When Criminal Minds gets old, just retire the show and move on.
Something Just Isn't Right
My brother and his family are moving into my parents house and in an effort to clean up my old bedroom so the baby can take it over, my mom made me take back some junk I had been storing there.
And when I mean junk, I mean JUNK! The storage container above was filled with pens, pencils, markers, and other miscellanies supplies. Some of which probably date back to the ice age. Dozens didn't work and had to be thrown away. It even included a rubber banded handful of broken colored pencils. Can you say HOARDER!
But something I found in there was a bit of a surprise. And I have no clue why or even how it ended up in the box of art/school supplies. Can you figure out what it is? Don't try too hard. It's really easy to figure out. Promise!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
With Your Arms Wide Open
I am obsessed with this tree. I have been wanting to take a picture of it for so long. As I was driving by today I impulsively stopped and took one with my phone through my windshield. It's not a great picture, and on another nice day I want to go out with my camera and take better ones, but I still like it. I love how the tree is huge and all alone in a random field. It is alone yet so strong.
Here are a few more:
Friday, March 11, 2011
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Suspicions of Pregnancy Surround Me
When I go grocery shopping, I plan my meals, make a list, and follow it pretty well. I might buy a few more things that strike my fancy and are on sale. But again, I am a pretty planned shopper.
Then Saturday I make an unplanned trip to Sams Club to get some almonds. I walk out with the following:
Almonds
Beef Jerky
Box of Cinnamon Cheerios
Large box of Mentos
Then I go to Harris Teeters to get Basil and a jar of pickles. I walk out with :
Travel size containers of pickles
A large jar of big pickles
Basil
Salsa
Queso Sause
Apple sauce for the hubby (I don't like apple sauce)
Totally out of the norm for me.
And then I get home and someone asks, "are you planning to make dinner tomorrow?" "Um no hadn't really thought of it actually."
I ate 3 of those rather large pickles I bought in one sitting. Add that to the few pounds I have gained back lately and my general lack of energy and I am pretty sure there are some people who think I am pregnant.
Especially my father in law, who made sure that the smell of his salsa popcorn wouldn't bother me too much (which by the way, it does smell). This was right after I ate those three pickles.
But I promise you I am not pregnant. Not yet anyways.
Then Saturday I make an unplanned trip to Sams Club to get some almonds. I walk out with the following:
Almonds
Beef Jerky
Box of Cinnamon Cheerios
Large box of Mentos
Then I go to Harris Teeters to get Basil and a jar of pickles. I walk out with :
Travel size containers of pickles
A large jar of big pickles
Basil
Salsa
Queso Sause
Apple sauce for the hubby (I don't like apple sauce)
Totally out of the norm for me.
And then I get home and someone asks, "are you planning to make dinner tomorrow?" "Um no hadn't really thought of it actually."
I ate 3 of those rather large pickles I bought in one sitting. Add that to the few pounds I have gained back lately and my general lack of energy and I am pretty sure there are some people who think I am pregnant.
Especially my father in law, who made sure that the smell of his salsa popcorn wouldn't bother me too much (which by the way, it does smell). This was right after I ate those three pickles.
But I promise you I am not pregnant. Not yet anyways.
Monday, March 7, 2011
My Favorite Sandwich
Panera Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich
If all vegetarian food tasted like this sandwich, I would be a vegetarian. Or....if I could eat this sandwich everyday, I would be a vegetarian, and a happy one at that.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Religious Tolerance
I ran into this article after someone posted it on Facebook. This article discusses how a Mormon Church in Missouri opens its doors to Muslims on Fridays for their Friday worship. Friday prayers are really important to Muslims. Friday to them is what Sunday is to Mormons and other Christians. Muslim leaders came forward in an Interfaith Council and asked for a place to worship on Sundays as they did not have a local mosque to use yet. A member of the Council was Mormon and was the connection they needed.
Then I found out today that The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (the same religion discussed in the article for those of you who are not familiar with my church) is sending aid to Libya. They are working with other countries and with a large Muslim organization to get the aid into Libya, as the United States is not allowed in.
These stories came at an interesting time. I have been thinking a lot about the Muslim faith lately and one night I had a rather intense discussion with my husband about some of my feelings. I was saying that I felt Muslims needed to be more open and upfront about what they believe and about their feelings on events in the Middle East. If they don't condone violence, then say so. This course of action is taken often by Muslims groups in the United States. The Muslims in my area are well known for making public statements condoning violence and for reaching out to the community. But, I felt that more Muslims needed to come out against all the violence and hate. That they needed to do more to allow us to know how they feel.
But then my husband (who is much more kind than I am) was pointing out that people who judge Muslims based on what extremists do are somewhat shortsighted and judgmental. And this is true too. I would not want someone to judge my church if one person twisted the beliefs of my faith and went and committed violence against others.
It is hard though. What is unique about the Muslims faith is that many countries are governed on Shariah law or other laws based on the Muslim faith. Their faith becomes their way of life too. So when bad things happen, such as the killing of a young girl, it is hard to separate the two. Is the Muslim faith a violent faith or a peaceful one? This question often bothers me. And so many times after reading blogs and the news, I don't feel the greatest of feelings towards Muslims. I am left with misgivings and a sad heart for everything that is going on in the world.
But after talking to my husband I realized that it is not necessarly fair for me to place such a burden on Muslims. That I shouldn't feel that they must be okay with violence if they don't cry out against it more loudly. While I still believe that it would help for them to step forward and start being more vocal about their feelings, I can not lay that whole burden on them.
And after much though I have made the following conclusion:
I think it is important for members of different faiths to open up to each other, to get to know each other, to be tolerant of each others faith. I like the idea of Interfaith Councils and Interfaith Events. These councils allow people to more intimately get to know other religions. They give them a chance to discuss what is going on in their congregations, to discuss their views of events in the world, to ask for help and to give help.
Neighborhoods are no longer well knit communities. Oftentimes, your only friends are those you interact with at work or school or church. This doesn't necessarily allow for diversity of religions in your group of friends and acquaintances. And this may not be a good thing.
This interaction could only be more eye opening. At this stage of my life, I know no Muslims. I know someone who is Jewish, but not active. In fact, I don't know many really religious people except for Mormons. This mean that much of what I know about other religions comes from what I read about on the news and on blogs. This can leave me with a very narrow mind on religons.
Perhaps there is a hole in our society that could be filled with more Interfaith Councils and Events. Or perhaps we just need to make a greater effort in getting to know our neighbors. Personal interaction and experience is often times more effective than reading a dozen articles all stating the same thing.
I for one hope that I can be less narrow minded. I will probably still have some misgivings about certain fascists of other faiths. But I need to remember that what is going on in the Middle East is more of a political issue than a religious issue (though the two can not be totally seperated). It concerns peoples feelings, way of life, and social/political structure. And all I can do for them is pray that things will work out. That the governments involved will make the right decisions and that slowly, yet surely, they can take the steps necessary to bring peace to their land and their lives.
P.S. I can't finish without saying that I do have a few misgivings about the situation in the article. Mainly, that they cover up the picture of Jesus. To me, that feels like someone coming into my home and covering up my picture of Jesus because they don't believe in him. But in the end, I think God is happy that his building is being used for service and I think he understands. So I need to be understanding of it too.
P.P.S. I know some may disagree with me. Some may view me as too lenient on the Muslim religion, while others may view me as too hard on them. But I am okay with that and I am okay with where I stand on this issue right now. But I also understand where each side comes from. So please to not feel scared to tell me your feelings, whatever they may be.
Then I found out today that The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (the same religion discussed in the article for those of you who are not familiar with my church) is sending aid to Libya. They are working with other countries and with a large Muslim organization to get the aid into Libya, as the United States is not allowed in.
These stories came at an interesting time. I have been thinking a lot about the Muslim faith lately and one night I had a rather intense discussion with my husband about some of my feelings. I was saying that I felt Muslims needed to be more open and upfront about what they believe and about their feelings on events in the Middle East. If they don't condone violence, then say so. This course of action is taken often by Muslims groups in the United States. The Muslims in my area are well known for making public statements condoning violence and for reaching out to the community. But, I felt that more Muslims needed to come out against all the violence and hate. That they needed to do more to allow us to know how they feel.
But then my husband (who is much more kind than I am) was pointing out that people who judge Muslims based on what extremists do are somewhat shortsighted and judgmental. And this is true too. I would not want someone to judge my church if one person twisted the beliefs of my faith and went and committed violence against others.
It is hard though. What is unique about the Muslims faith is that many countries are governed on Shariah law or other laws based on the Muslim faith. Their faith becomes their way of life too. So when bad things happen, such as the killing of a young girl, it is hard to separate the two. Is the Muslim faith a violent faith or a peaceful one? This question often bothers me. And so many times after reading blogs and the news, I don't feel the greatest of feelings towards Muslims. I am left with misgivings and a sad heart for everything that is going on in the world.
But after talking to my husband I realized that it is not necessarly fair for me to place such a burden on Muslims. That I shouldn't feel that they must be okay with violence if they don't cry out against it more loudly. While I still believe that it would help for them to step forward and start being more vocal about their feelings, I can not lay that whole burden on them.
And after much though I have made the following conclusion:
I think it is important for members of different faiths to open up to each other, to get to know each other, to be tolerant of each others faith. I like the idea of Interfaith Councils and Interfaith Events. These councils allow people to more intimately get to know other religions. They give them a chance to discuss what is going on in their congregations, to discuss their views of events in the world, to ask for help and to give help.
Neighborhoods are no longer well knit communities. Oftentimes, your only friends are those you interact with at work or school or church. This doesn't necessarily allow for diversity of religions in your group of friends and acquaintances. And this may not be a good thing.
This interaction could only be more eye opening. At this stage of my life, I know no Muslims. I know someone who is Jewish, but not active. In fact, I don't know many really religious people except for Mormons. This mean that much of what I know about other religions comes from what I read about on the news and on blogs. This can leave me with a very narrow mind on religons.
Perhaps there is a hole in our society that could be filled with more Interfaith Councils and Events. Or perhaps we just need to make a greater effort in getting to know our neighbors. Personal interaction and experience is often times more effective than reading a dozen articles all stating the same thing.
I for one hope that I can be less narrow minded. I will probably still have some misgivings about certain fascists of other faiths. But I need to remember that what is going on in the Middle East is more of a political issue than a religious issue (though the two can not be totally seperated). It concerns peoples feelings, way of life, and social/political structure. And all I can do for them is pray that things will work out. That the governments involved will make the right decisions and that slowly, yet surely, they can take the steps necessary to bring peace to their land and their lives.
P.S. I can't finish without saying that I do have a few misgivings about the situation in the article. Mainly, that they cover up the picture of Jesus. To me, that feels like someone coming into my home and covering up my picture of Jesus because they don't believe in him. But in the end, I think God is happy that his building is being used for service and I think he understands. So I need to be understanding of it too.
P.P.S. I know some may disagree with me. Some may view me as too lenient on the Muslim religion, while others may view me as too hard on them. But I am okay with that and I am okay with where I stand on this issue right now. But I also understand where each side comes from. So please to not feel scared to tell me your feelings, whatever they may be.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Style Me Pretty
After taking a long break from wedding related blogs, I am now re-addicted to Style Me Pretty.
Two weddings that captured my fancy yesterday:
Rustic Va Wedding : Very pretty wedding and a great use of nature related objects. But this wedding mainly striked my fancy because she hosted her wedding at my dream venue number 2. I fell for Rasberry Plains when my dad had a campaign event there. It has the biggest windows all around the main room that look out onto gorgeous and well kept lawns. It would be great for any romantic event.
New York City Wedding : I have viewed a lot of weddings in the past week. Most of them are really pretty but end up being a lot of the same. Different wedding, different traditions, same decore. But this one stood out to me. I thought it was classy yet not too stiff. Had a touch of the modern industrial feel without feeling too modern. It fits in with what is fashionable in the wedding world, but is also very much their own wedding. Their flowers are gorgeous, they are gorgeous. And don't even get me started with the hot sauce station. In fact, that might be why I love this wedding.
Two weddings that captured my fancy yesterday:
Rustic Va Wedding : Very pretty wedding and a great use of nature related objects. But this wedding mainly striked my fancy because she hosted her wedding at my dream venue number 2. I fell for Rasberry Plains when my dad had a campaign event there. It has the biggest windows all around the main room that look out onto gorgeous and well kept lawns. It would be great for any romantic event.
New York City Wedding : I have viewed a lot of weddings in the past week. Most of them are really pretty but end up being a lot of the same. Different wedding, different traditions, same decore. But this one stood out to me. I thought it was classy yet not too stiff. Had a touch of the modern industrial feel without feeling too modern. It fits in with what is fashionable in the wedding world, but is also very much their own wedding. Their flowers are gorgeous, they are gorgeous. And don't even get me started with the hot sauce station. In fact, that might be why I love this wedding.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
My Favorite Picture of the Day
I love this picture!
My amazing and very talented sister Laura took it. Last summer, we were at the zoo with other family members and got left behind for a bit because we wouldn't leave these darling animals.
I want one for Christmas.
Recently Downloaded Music
I wanted some new music for my phone so I downloaded some very random things, including songs from the following artists/bands:
The Civil Wars - Recently recommended and I thought I would give them a try.
Sara Bareillas
Lady Antebellum
Jonathan Vasser and the Speckled Birds - Saw them at a house show a few years ago. Liked them, always think about them, but just now finally got their music. So excited. I love them because they are original and very talented. And they make use of some pretty awesome instruments. Enjoy the videos below but know that they are a thousand times better live.
I like Indie/Independent type bands so if anybody has suggestions, please give them to me. I love new music but I have been a little too out of the music loop lately.
The Civil Wars - Recently recommended and I thought I would give them a try.
Sara Bareillas
Lady Antebellum
Jonathan Vasser and the Speckled Birds - Saw them at a house show a few years ago. Liked them, always think about them, but just now finally got their music. So excited. I love them because they are original and very talented. And they make use of some pretty awesome instruments. Enjoy the videos below but know that they are a thousand times better live.
I like Indie/Independent type bands so if anybody has suggestions, please give them to me. I love new music but I have been a little too out of the music loop lately.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Phone Dump
Working inside all day made it easy to miss the sun during the winter time. It was always pitch black when I left work. I get really happy now when I see the sun on weekdays. Hence the pictures.
I am sooo excited for the spring.
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