Just Stuff!

toribrit's review on the Be Fabulous!

2010-11-07T10:31:00.000-08:00

I have an 8-month-old daughter and have been searching since I found out I was pregnant for the perfect diaper bag. Nine bags later and I stumbled across the BeFab, a beautiful offering from Jujube’s Legacy collection. We have now been each others companion for about 3 weeks.

The first thing that strikes you as you look over the bag is the gorgeous Earth Leather. A sustainable and animal-friendly leather-type material, it comes already ``aged’’ and the look is to die for. Two exterior side bottle pockets, a back zip pocket where the Earth Leather changing pad is stored, a front mommy pocket (a Jujube trait) and a great smaller pocket for a phone or camera round out the exterior. Everything looks neat, tidy and compact.

The bag has a very sturdy messenger strap that has a great padding on it so despite how heavy you may pack it, it somehow feels lighter on your shoulder.
As with most things in life, looks aren’t everything though so let’s talk functionality. This baby has it all. Two zippers that meet at the top open to an extremely wide and very pretty interior, which changes depending on whether you buy brown or black. You can see everything and this is the ultimate in Mary Poppins purses. You would be amazed at how much it can hold. Interior zip pockets and open pockets make it a cinch to organize, even for a non-organized momma like myself.
I wouldn’t consider myself an over packer. In my mommy pocket I carry my large wallet, a few bits of makeup, keys and a business card holder. In the main compartment is a Quick with a change of clothes, diapers, wipes, a tower of snacks, sunscreen, bug spray and sometimes a ziplock with 2 containers of food, a bib and a spoon. I also pack first aid items in one zip compartment and the bottle holders on the outside are always used. There is plenty of room left and it only gets full if I add 3 or 4 toys.
The shape of the bag makes it very easy to access especially when attached to a stroller as it sits up higher than most I have tried in the past, and the location of the mommy pocket on the bag makes it simple to access your wallet, camera or phone quickly.

Despite the large size of the changing pad, there is a little extra room in the back pocket. I store coupons and a planner back there. I have heard of some moms replacing the changing pad with a JJB light changing pad, thus creating even more space for packing.
The only drawback I have found so far is the size of the mommy pocket. There is a great sunglasses holder built into the pocket that I don’t really get to use as my wallet is kind of big and takes up most of the pocket.

Overall this bag has turned out to be my favorite. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a sleek, sophisticated yet highly functional every day diaper bag.

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A SUPER Yummy Salad!

2010-08-21T18:49:00.000-07:00

So I had an AMAZINGLY fantastic Sabbath dinner at my friends house last night. I couldn't count the points but I had a lot left and took very little of everything to be respectful and it was all so tasty!
I especially loved the salad his mother made that had beets and carrots in it.

I called his mother a little while ago and asked her how to make it! SO SIMPLE AND SO TASTY!
She grated them but into these thin sticks... not the typical grating effect.
Then added a little Italian dressing and sugar.
I figure, low fat Italian dressing and Splenda can do the trick!
Can't wait to try it!

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Salmon Dinner!

2010-08-20T04:48:00.000-07:00

This meal was so goooood I kept making yummy noises at the dinner table!
First I have the instant mashed potatoes. I made 2 cups with 1 tbsp of the smart balance butter type stuff. It came out perfectly thick and creamy!
Then the veggies. Frozen so it was easy to make and I added salt and a tbsp of the butter. These are my fave veggies. I love the variety, the mild color it adds to the meal and the combination of veggies is so darn yummy!

I bought the salmon last night. Sprayed the pan with PAM and laid them in. I divided 1 tbsp of smart balance onto all of them and sprinkled salt, garlic pepper and rosemary all over. I cut up some yellow peppers and put it around the pieces which added so much flavor.

Last night's dinner was a huge success! And to top it off.... I got to eat chocolate for dessert! It was super filling, healthy and left me with points for something I love!
Good meal! Mmmmmmmmm

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Some Point Friendly Shopping

2010-08-19T17:20:00.001-07:00

Went to the grocery store for some dinner items and found some interesting goodies!

0 POINTS!
2 POINTS a CUP!

0 POINTS!

I know the mashed potatoes are awesome. When adding the ingredients it doesn't even come out to the 3 points. The rest I'll try and let you know :)

Join me on the Little Dudes and Divas Fan Page, Twitter Page, Forum, Blog and check otu our latest YouTube videos!

Last Night's Boyfriendly Support!

2010-08-19T04:38:00.000-07:00

So last night, with 23 points left (I have 32 a day) I went with my guy to a friend's house.
I'll give him this much, he's very forthcoming with my willingness to lose some weight.
He went out and bought ground beef and buns...... We went to some friends..... had a shot of tequila (which pretty much floored me cause I'm a "LIGHT" weight hahaha) and none of us wanted to make the patties!

He took initiative! No egg! No oil! AND on the George Foreman grill!
He added a little bread to it, onions and spices.
They came out amazing! We each had 2! I was full with points to spare!

I made a huge no no by not eating all my points :(
I lacked only like 3 points or so (It's been tough getting back to the system)
But I'll get it right!!!! I know I will! With the help of my LDD TEAM! WOOHOO!

My current goal is to look as great in either of these dresses for my upcoming vacation as I did back then! (pay no mind to the cig)

My Latest Work

2010-08-18T16:41:00.000-07:00

So I get these spurts of creativity once in a while. If it's not a spurt, it doesn't come out right!

This is a pretty cool one I'm proud of. Firstly the shelves were taken from an old unit. I painted them in shades of brown with black and white accents. I painted the "L" 's in the same color too.

Then I took the backing from my living room entertainment system (had no use for it anyway) and folded it into a long hexagon type cylinder. I threw some beads onto wire string, poked holes in the cylinder and hung them.
The three boxes used to be box pictures. I sawed out the pictures (it's all wood) and screwed eyelets into the interior panels. Then pulled different color wiring randomly through the eyelets. And the main golden colors form a Magen David. Then I hung those too! I LOVE this one!

Here's a wall art wire decor with hanging pendants.

Then I added pics of my guy and me from our Valentine's cruise vacation a few years back.

This is an OLD one but still a big favorite! The wooden back is from an old clock that broke. I painted it black which looks great because it's natural wood.
The middle part is an extra thick plastic sheet from an old frame that broke. I collage painted it in browns and golds then used crackle glue for the weathered effect and finished it off with scrapbook leaves.

Hopefully I'll be inspired to continue!

The Family Goal

2010-08-18T06:03:00.001-07:00

Crossing fingers baby!

Feeling PRETTY Good

2010-08-18T04:30:00.000-07:00

I know only one day has passed and TECHNICALLY we're not starting the weight loss adventure till today at 10AM but still.... I already felt a little better about myself yesterday knowing I made the decision to do this.

Just that simple decision boosted up my confidence!

In my line of work, I'm no role model but volunteering to be one and having so many people be a part of tracking the weight loss piles on the pressure to succeed which is a huge motivational boost.
I'm guessing the contestants on the "Biggest Loser" t.v. show had the same feeling..... on Prozac of course considering thy had millions of people tracking them....

My biggest fear in this whole thing is possibly letting my team down. We can still win whether I make it or not but what kind of team leader am I if I fail!?
So..... I'm not going to fail!

I'm happy to have a group of people to virtually satisfy my sweet tooth in moments of weakness as oppose to grabbing a bag of chocolate mini's.... mmmmm chocolate!!! ;)

Our Biggest Loser Contest

2010-08-17T19:04:00.000-07:00

So according to my mom's scale I'm now at my heaviest I've ever been. 255 pounds!
OMG OMG OMG
So I think it's definitely time to start riding the fat shedding train with a long stay in the Weight Watcher's resort for whales.

This is me a few years ago.... I was never thin but I was much lighter than I am now!

This was on my vacation in 2007 if I'm remembering correctly.

And I HAD to pull this one out of the volt! LOOK AT US! That's Al and me!
This was after we had done weight watchers for the first time SERIOUSLY and we each lost over 50 pounds!

But today is a different day and so begins the long journey to a better lifestyle! With the help of my team mates we can go so far so let's get to it!

So today I prepared one of my fave dishes. Chicken cutlet with cilantro and Cheerios! A salad with white beans and some pasta with a simple sauce!

This whole meal was less than 14 points and I have a 2 point corn on the stove.

Unfortunately I didn't like the way the chicken came out tonight. It usually comes out super tender but I left it on low heat to wait for my guy to come home for dinner... at least I have someone to blame :) So I had another 4 point cup of pasta instead.

The Timi and Leslie's 2010 collection!

2010-02-03T10:25:00.000-08:00

Timi and Leslie Diaper Bags
The perfect collection for the fashion savvy mommy!

All the bags come with most or all of the following accessories :
Detachable/Adjustable Shoulder Strap
Handy key fob- never lose keys again!
Pouchette for Mom’s essentials- with one zippered pocket and 6 credit card slots and and a strap with an 8" drop
Change mat with velcro closure measuring 25.5" X 18" with a mesh diapers/wipes pocket
Stroller straps
Insulated bottle holder with clip-on handle, zipper closure
Timi and Leslie Dust Bag

The Timi and Leslie Diaper Bags use durable and beautiful materials such as faux patent leathers and nylons all of which are PVC FREE with hardware in silver, gold and antique brass. All their diaper bags have one interior zipper pocket as well as one large snap closure pocket, two elastic side pockets and two more elastic pockets towards the front.

Not in the mood for a shoulder bag? Easily clip on the messenger strap or tie strap and you're good to go! And of course no bag is complete without a matching clutch! Yup! Timi and Leslie has added the cutest matching clutch perfect to take the place of your wallet and it can fit a small wallet also!
But that's not all! Baby will love being changed on the comfy changing pad and yes, it's functional too! Folds up and can be put away easily and has an outside mesh pocket to hold dipes and wipes!
BUT! It doesn't end there! Timi and Leslie also added matching stroller straps with almost all their bags! Clip them onto any stroller! Use them to clip other items to your stroller or to your bag and when you don't need them you can easily clip them right off!

Who says you can’t look stylish once you become a mama? Or how about long after as well with a super functional bag that will last you till after baby is all grown up?
The Timi and Leslie Diaper Bags collection keeps moms feeling beautiful and fashionable without sacrificing function. Each bag has all the necessities of a diaper bag, but can also be used as a handbag or a work bag or anything bag so moms will carry these bags long after the diaper stage!
Most of the Timi and Leslie Diaper bags can fit a laptop sleeve as well! How awesome is that!?!?
Timi & Leslie has been designing fashionable diaper bags for quite some time now. Always coming out with stunning and functional diaper bags that make heads turn!

Top celebrity moms like Courtney Cox, Christina Aguilera, Angelina Jolie, Tori Spelling, Nicole Kidman and Britney Spears carry Timi and Leslie Bags. Funny man father Jack Black has the men's version of the Timi and Leslie.

Get the elegant, designer look you want with the functionality you need.

Just Stuff!: Sweet Potato Pie

2009-12-05T07:57:00.000-08:00

Just Stuff!: Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet Potato Pie

2009-12-05T07:49:00.000-08:00

One of the forum members was super kind enough to share!
I'm in heaven just reading the recipe!

Pie Dough- This actually makes three shells but can be frozen for up to 3mos

3 cups A.P Flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup of lard(yes lard...lol)
1 lg egg
1/3 cup cold water
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

In a lg bowl combine flour and salt stir to blend. add the lard and rub it into the flour w/ your finger tips until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Add the egg, water and vinegar and stir w/ a fork until the dry ingredients are moist. Form the dough into a ball and divide that into 3 balls and roll it out into a 1/8in thickness onto a floured surface.
Fit the dough into a 9in pan and trim the edges into a 1in overhang. Fold the dough under and crimp the edges. If freezing the rest of the dough form them into disk put into plastic bags and freeze for up to 3mos. Recipe courtesy of Lovina Eicher

Sweet Potato Pecan Pie I got this off of All recipies.com but I use my crust and make whipped cream for the top!

Ingredients

* 1 (9 inch) unbaked pie crust
* 2 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
* 2 eggs
* 3/4 cup white sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1 2/3 cups light cream
* 3 tablespoons butter, softened
* 2/3 cup packed brown sugar
* 2/3 cup chopped pecans

Directions

1. Bake sweet potatoes until tender, peel and mash. Make sure all lumps are removed, straining if necessary.
2. Lightly beat eggs. Blend together eggs and sweet potatoes. Stir in sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Blend in cream. Pour into pie shell.
3. Bake in preheated oven at 400 degrees F (205 degrees C) 45-55 minutes or until knife inserted halfway between center and edge of pie comes out clean. Cool completely on rack.
4. To make Caramelized Pecan Topping: Combine butter or margarine, brown sugar, and pecans. Gently drop by spoonfuls over cooled pie to cover top. Broil 5 inches below heat until mixture begins to bubble, about 3 minutes. Watch carefully, if cooked too long, top will turn syrupy. Cool on rack.

"Regular Sweet Potato Pie This is another All recipes one that I tweak to taste....usually I use more cinnamon/nutmeg instead of ginger!!

Ingredients

* 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
* 1/4 pound butter, softened
* 2 eggs, separated
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/2 cup evaporated milk
* 1/4 cup white sugar
* 1 (9 inch) unbaked pie crust

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet potatoes, butter, egg yolks, brown sugar, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg and evaporated milk. Mix together well.
3. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form; add 1/4 cup sugar and fold into sweet potato mixture.
4. Pour into pie shell and bake at 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) for 10 minutes. Reduce heat and bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 30 minutes or until firm.

The HUGE Holiday Contest!

2009-12-05T07:48:00.000-08:00

So many ways to enter this AWESOME contest!
CLICK HERE

You will be entering to win the Mia Bossi Maria Frost ALL LEATHER Diaper Bag for FREE!!! JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS! YEAH!!!!
A $600 diaper bag!!!!!!

THIS CONTEST WILL END ON DECEMBER 18th!

My stash and more!

2009-06-14T11:59:00.000-07:00

Some quick pics for yah! Don't mind my abused bags and Rocky in some of the videos :)

My stash is bigger than I thought! And of course the wish list is never ending!

This is the Lexie Barnes Bali Hai Large Redondo.

I use it for beach trips including the romantic beach trips ;). The handles dig in a bit if the bag is overstuffed but it's great if you're not walking around with it the whole day.
Roomy with great organization. The bag itself is light and the outside is waterproof while the interior is resistant.

The Amy Kathryn Gladiola Brown Metallic Diaper Bag! Perfect bag for traveling! I absolutely love this bag. It's roomy and stuffable and is so so great for vacations. I've taken it on my cruises and it's the best bag I've ever used. Great for the airport as well as Island traveling.
The side pockets are big and roomy. Front and back magnet closure pockets were a life saver!

I had my ID's in my FV wristlet and it fit in the back pocket.

In the front I had my cell and some other necessities.
I use the messegner strap only. Super comfortable and I had a FULL bag most of the time it didn't hurt my shoulder which was yet another plus!

The Amy Kathryn Poppy Leopard Diaper Bag. SUCH AN AWESOME PURSE!

You do need organizational items because there aren't many pockets but that gives me more reason to use my accessories!

There's a zipper pocket towards the back perfect for the must have's. Straps are super comfortable and don't fall off the shoulder.

2 more pockets which I use for loose change, metro card, lip gloss etc.

The Amy Kathryn Marigold Green Diaper Bag. One of my absolute favorite every day bags.

Firstly so stylish! Love the 4 small outside side pockets for my lip gloss, gum, MP3 etc.

The front is great for my cell and keys and there is so much more room left.

The bag is smaller than it looks so it's more for lighter packers.

I use the inside zipper pocket for my ID's when I go out or my loose money (BAD MAYA).

And the handles are PERFECT! Don't slide and it's the perfect length for a purse.

My other almost completely worn out bag! REESE LI BABY! LOVE THIS BAG!

Roomy and comfy an organizational although I'm terrible unorganized :)
LOVE THIS BAG!!!!

I use the side pockets for my cell, MP3 and metro card and an umbrella.

The straps are super comfortable although you wouldn't think so just by looking at them.
The bottom feet allow me to throw the bag anywhere (I'm a chronic bag thrower).

The back pocket is GREAT for when I'm bringing home work!

And it's roomy enough to fit my entire shipment of dog toys I accidentally had shipped to work! How great is that!?!??!

The Kalencom Pics!

2009-06-13T17:58:00.001-07:00

Me in my PJ's showing off the Kalencom Weekender Caf'e Au Lait Heavenly Dots Weekender.

5 pockets inside total. One back, one front and a bunch of accessories too.

I use it for the gym.... when I actually go. I'm able to fit my sneakers, change of clothing (and as you can see I'm a big girl.)

My Mini Me Baby Gear with my bathing suit.
The Kalencom accessories for my make up and shower things. BE Quick with my MP3, water bottle, jump rope and a Bebe au Lait burp which I use for sweaty workouts (it's great).

A large towel and other gym necessities. The bag gets packed to the max!

Withstands my gym abuse (I stuff it all into the locker), the straps are super comfy and roomy enough and the bottom feet are great!
I use the front pocket for my lock, cell and gym card.

My Latest Addiction!

2009-05-29T08:32:00.001-07:00

Loving this song! Blast it at least 5 times a day. Never heard of him and just HAPPENED to find the song. So happy :)

The Diaper Clutch Giveaway!

2009-05-27T09:20:00.000-07:00

What's TDC?!?!?
The Diaper Clutch!
Yup yup.... The Diaper Clutch is sponsoring a giveaway to one lucky mama!

An amazing accessory that makes life just a little easier!

After doing a wonderful poll on the forum (Thank you to all participants), the Blue Zoo and Lime Paisley WON!
Sooooooo join the contest and you get your choice of either a BLUE ZOO or PAISLEY LIME Diaper Clutch FREE!

There are many ways to enter! CLICK HERE for details and HAVE A BLAST!

Greatest Birthday!

2009-05-22T20:10:00.000-07:00

Got phone calls from my fave cousin overseas. Everyone texted me, left messages. My brother texted me an AMAZING message. My friend put a candle in a weight watchers muffin and sang happy birthday. My brother bought a cake and flowers and brought it to work for a little office celebration. My friend took me to dinner. My mother tied balloons to my door and left flowers on my coffee table. My nieces and nephews made me a birthday booklet, origami and a birthday video. Friend left me a birthday card and teddy on my bed.
The best birthday ever!!!

Rocky Having Fun!

2009-05-21T23:38:00.000-07:00

Yup, had him going with that laser!

Rocky Being His Cute Self Again!

2009-05-20T18:44:00.000-07:00

Wanted to share :)

The Mother's Day Special!

2009-05-06T05:37:00.001-07:00

Proud of my pup

2009-05-02T22:53:00.000-07:00

He's 7 months old. The video was a whim deal so he wasn't prepared and he knows so much more than just those tricks!
Sit, down, up, come here, out, move, outside, inside, go potty and poopie, upstairs, downstairs, turn and turn 3 times, high five and paw with both hands, speak, touch, give, wait, stay, home, kiss, come up, off and off the bed...
I didn't even realize how much he knows till now lol
LOVE this dog!
Would love to get some more done with him. Crawl, lay, roll and more.
Wish me luck!

Rocky CRACKED me up!

2009-05-02T22:44:00.000-07:00

I could not stop laughing once the video stopped. He kept turning and turning. When I first taught him the "turn" command I would get so excited so now he tends to do it anytime he's not sure what I'm asking of him.
LMAO!!!

LOVE THIS VIDEO!!!!

2009-04-17T19:58:00.000-07:00

I was working my way through some funny Boxer videos and landed this one.
CRACKED ME UP!
And even more, Rocky does it too!
I just have to get a memory card and get his funny furry butt on video!
LOVE THIS DOG!

Ju Ju Be Exclusive REVEALED!

2009-04-16T19:58:00.001-07:00

This is a GREAT exclusive for the Ju Ju Be Pre-Orders!

The offer lasts until we get the items in.

Visit www.littledudesanddivas.com to place your order!

If your pre-order is over $50 you get $10 towards your next order

Over $75 you get $15

Over $100 you get $20

Over $150 you get $30

Over $200 you get $45

And if your order is over $300 you get $65 towards your next order!

You must be an LD&D Yahoo Group Member to qualify.

New orders placed please enter your LD&D group username in the comments section.
For orders placed, email me your LD&D group username and I'll update your order!

(To clarify, you must be an LD&D Yahoo diaperbags group member as this is an exclusive just for our Yahoo group members :)
If you repost this please include the following link for those that want to join:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/diaperbags/

How awesome!??!!?

These amounts are strictly for the pre-ordered items and will be totaled when the pre-orders ship.

If you would like to add to your orders please email me directly to keep all pre-order items together.
For my email please visit our Yahoo Group

Thank you all for your support and loyalty! We love you all!

Feel free to post this for everyone to enjoy, please include entire post.

Don't forget to check out our 50-80% off section and our Specials Section as well!

And as usual, orders over $50 ship free in the US!

No sales tax outside of NY!

Free mini baby blanket with every diaper bag over $100.

Check out the new items

Keep checking in for news on our diaper bag giveaway and our stash picture contest too!

Always giving away free stuff! :)

HIGS TO ALL! Maya

UNBELIEVABLE!

2009-04-16T10:48:00.000-07:00

Check this out!
Everyone laughed at her when she got up and claimed her dream was to be a star... hell I giggled too.
But she shut me up pretty quickly!
"Don't judge a book by it's cover" certainly took on a new level.
She had the courage to stand up in front of hundreds, knew that millions will see her perform, knew she would be judged not only on the questionable talent she hid from the world but would be judged on a first impression basis of her appearance. Nonetheless she took a stand and has surely put everyone's foot in their mouth!
This lady is AMAZING and I hope her dream does come true.

Great Time To Order A Ju Ju Be!

2009-04-15T06:27:00.000-07:00

Hey all! The new Ju Ju Be stuff is up! The pictures will be updated as soon as I get my hands on them!
The new prints Navy Berry and Cloud Break look great and now the Mini Be comes in Julia's Ribbons and the Be Spicy comes in Drip Drops!
How awesome!?!?!?

So of course, for my group mamas I'll be having a pre-order gift exclusive. Still working out the details and you will still be able to use "free gift" coupon codes found in the SPECIALS section on the site!

Your free pre-order gifts will depend on the order total so if you want to add to your pre-order email me directly (you can get my email on the yahoo group! :). Just let me know what you want to add that way all of your pre-order items are in one order!

Not revealing the gifts yet but I'll do a reveal in the group next week so stay tuned!
Wanna join the fun? Join our YAHOO GROUP!

I will be doing a giveaway for a stash picture next week as well and your pic will be posted on the home page! Show it off! :)

Also, we will be sponsoring a BABY BEE BAGS giveaway.
We recently added Baby Bee Bags to our wonderful collection and I have to admit, they are WONDERFUL!
I've only heard great things about their bags and have had the joy of playing with some too! They're awesome, roomy with great features!
We did a video on the Eglan and they saw it! Soooooooo they were nice enough to donate a Fabien for us to do a video on too! The video will be posted next week on You Tube.
They asked me to give it away to a lucky mama so we will be having a contest for it!

The Eglan is super cool with many features. When we first got it in I was pleasantly surprised with the quality and features. The bag is stuffable and the compartment that zips out with the changing station is super cool and convenient!
All of your diapering needs can fit right in there!
The most awesome feature is the small zip off bag on the front. Firstly it has a pocket right behind it AS WELL and what's great is you can put your wallet, cell and mommy items in there and just zip it right off when you don't need the whole diaper bag! Leaving the baby with daddy in the car? Zip it right off and you're ready to run into the store without lugging around a diaper bag! It's also a convertible!!!
Watch the video below to see more!

The Fabien that they donated for a lucky mama to win is the Baby Bee Bags Fabien Sky Gold.
I LOVE how roomy this bag is! I tried it on for good measure and it's super comfortable! The interior is COMPLETELY WIPEABLE! Most wipable inner linings are nylon but this inner lining is a soft vinyl type that wipes even more easily!
The pockets are roomy too and the bag is super roomy and stuffable! The diagonal pocket on the front looks like just a fashionable addition but no no, it's a GREAT roomy pocket that is super functional! No more fumbling for your mommy items! And you can fit ALL your mommy items in there... no compromising!
The Fabien ALSO has the change station compartment with the pull out changing pad. How convenient!?!?!?
Subscribe to our YouTube videos to be updated when we add some more!

Amy will be hosting the contest (WE LOVE YOU AMY) so keep checking in to her blog!
I know a lot of you go to her blog so I asked if Baby Bee Bags and us would be able to sponsor another giveaway.... she agreed! :)

Also, you can join Baby Bee Bags on FACEBOOK!
Technology rocks! :)

Recent;y Started Reading Again

2009-04-15T06:12:00.000-07:00

I actually have some time to read!!!!
I used to love James Patterson. He's an excellent writer and I know the books are easy reads but I love them! The mystery and suspense!
He does a great job of pulling you into a story and my addiction began with Patterson....
BUT! I discovered Nora Roberts! LOVE HER! Each and every book is amazing!
The way she writes just captivates you! Her imagination runs wild and her writing envelopes you to the point where putting down the book just really sucks :)
Has anyone ever read any of their books? I would love to get some more suggestions.
I love Nora Roberts' "In Death" series but would love to expand to other writers as well.
Any suggestions?

Rocky at the Beach

2009-03-07T11:56:00.000-08:00

It was so nice out today and we had to take him out to the beach. This pup is the absolute cutest! He runs around for 15 minutes without stopping like a mad dog then plops down just anywhere! Still a little scared of the water running away from the waves. Poor thing, teeth comin out and next month we are removing his doghood. Wish the pup luck :)

My Dream

2009-03-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

So yeah, I actually had a dream about this bag! This week Kat and I did the video for the Ju Ju Be WannaBe Beach Bag. The first time we got these in we were all very pleasantly impressed with the bag but I never knew just how cool this bag really is.... So we're preparing for the video, looking through every compartment and every nook and WOW! This bag is awesome..... I actually convinced myself even more after we were done with the video!

Very cool bag with awesome features and I actually dreamed about it! Just me, la dee da.... packing it up, la dee da.... going to the beach down the block with half the house!

The organization and features are pretty perfect not only as a beach bag though. Kat and I kept making notes of how much it would be perfect as a big diaper bag!
There's a section towards the back that has a large flannel lined zipper pocket that splits into 3. One specifically for your MP3 player with a rubber hole to put the headphone jack through so your MP3 player doesn't get sandy. The other 2 are great for your wallet, sunglasses and pacifiers for the baby or whatever you don't want getting sandy. SO COOL!

There is so so much room in this bag and there are 2 elastic straps on the front that hold the towel. There's definitely room for that over sized towel or a huge sheet you use at the beach to sit on and it doesn't take up the room in the bag!

On the bottom there's a mesh lining from inside and on the outside the entire bottom zips open so all the sand and crumbs fall right out without you even having to remove the contents!

Ahhhhh but my FAVORITE part is the large pocket inside.... it's waterproof! You can use it at first too keep food cold with ice packs then use it for the wet bathing suits! HOW COOL IS THAT?!?!
I'm so psyched about this awesome bag!
Now if only the weather was warm to test this baby out.....

2009-03-01T05:48:00.000-08:00

The Kalencom Heavenly Dots Weekender Diaper Bag in Cafe Au Lait!
I LOVE this bag!
Mind you I don't have kids but this bag is GREAT! I use it for the gym.... yeah... when I actually go!
It comes with some accessories, a pouch I use for my after gym shower makeup and a bottle tote I use for my mini toiletries. I'm able to fit everything I need for the gym including my sneakers, a change of clothing, bathing suit and towel and more!
It fills up and the straps are so comfortable. There's a back pocket I use for my work papers if I'm going directly from there and a front pocket I use for my cell, keys and wallet.
There are several pockets inside but I'm an accessory girl. I love outside pockets but don't use interior pockets much.
I also throw in my Ju Ju Be Be Quick in either Mint Julep or Groovy Gardens filled with a water bottle, MP3 player, jump rope, chap stick and a Bebe Au Lait burp cloth perfect for sweaty moments.
It's super roomy with the wrist strap so carrying it around in the gym is super convenient, it usually fits in those bog treadmill cup holders and I can attach it to other machines using the wrist strap.
The Ju Ju Be Quick is washable which is awesome and it has a zippered pocket inside too for that chapstick I love! Sometimes I'll take the other to hold my bathing suit too! The Be Quick doesn't look too big but it fits so so much!!!

I love the Bebe Au Lait burp cloths because they are absolutely perfect for the gym! Who says you can't use baby stuff for yourself!? They're stylish so I'm not lugging around a dingy little hand towel and super absorbant for it's size but perfectly sized so it fits in the Be Quick and isn't a hassle to pull out!

I have a Mini Me Baby Gear wet bag in Daisy Dreams which I use for my bathing suit. I have a 2 piece tankini with a bathing suit skirt. The pool in the gym has extra chlorine so the Mini Me Baby Gear is great for keeping the water and pool odors in and even in the medium one there is so much room left!

The Kalencom bag holds EVERYTHING and the accessories are absolutely perfect! Who would've thought going to the gym could be so stylish!
You can use the coupon code MAYA10 for 10% off your order over $50!
Click Here to visit the site!

Twilight... The Book

2009-03-01T05:13:00.000-08:00

Have you read it? What do you think?
It's a book I just couldn't put down, but a book that very much disappointed me.
Twilight by Stephanie Meyer was recommended to me by my sis in law. I don't read much but when I do, I get sucked in.
So I started reading it and finished it in the first round.
The book was awesome! Till later towards the end.
The author paints a perfect picture of the scenery, the smells, the feelings and everything.... till the end!
There are a few chapters in the end where more detailed information is so vital and you get nothin!
There's a fighting part and she mentions no details. I NEED the details. How did it happen? What led them to find the villain? Who fought when and did what?!?!?!
There was also a part where the main character makes a getaway and there were no details about when and how her "sitters" realized she was gone. How they informed her "lover", the reactions, the race against time and the find!
I know the book is geared towards high school reading but I believe the main way to get non reading children to love reading is to keep them interested. Unfortunately it seemed as though the author lost her patience in detailing towards the end. It was a quick ending to the book.
Did you read it? Worth the read that's for sure but just slightly disappointing.

The Cutest Pup in the WORLD!

2009-02-28T08:19:00.000-08:00

He is absolutely adorable. We put a lot of thought into getting a puppy. Little did we know what an amazing dog we were getting.
The search was dreadful and then we HAPPENED to stumble upon Jerome. His boxer had a litter of about 9 I think, maybe more. By the time we got wind, all were spoken for except for our little Rocky.
Turns out he was the cutest and even Jerome loved him most!
We got him at 6 weeks old and fell in love even before we got him.

So he's the smartest dog I've encountered. At 6 weeks he learned sit and down! Now at 5 months he knows about 20 commands!
The most loveable dog ever!
IF you want one let me know. Jerome is breeding more litters and the parents are beautiful!
Love my Rocky!

Since we started house training, he's only had about 4 accidents 3 of which were my fault. He's now learning to ring a bell to go outside. Still hasn't picked it up yet but hopefully soon.

I've been doing clicker training with him which has proved very successful! It's awesome to get his paw or a high five! He'll spin and hopefully soon he'll roll over too!
The best thing about having him though, is the way he cuddles. He'll lay next to David or me and cuddle. He puts his paw around my neck hugging me or mush his face next to mine or squish himself between us... you can't not fall in love with this little one!

Another LD&D Giveaway with JJB Spring '09 Pre-Orders!

2009-02-25T17:10:00.000-08:00

Little Dudes and Divas is sponsoring a giveaway for a FREE Caden Lane Diaper Bag!!!

Visit Amy's Blog for more details:
http://mommymentor.blogspot.com/2009/02/caden-lane-diaper-bag-giveaway.html

Also don't forget the following promo:

First! You can receive a FREE pair of BabyLegs!!!
If you have a Ju Ju Be Pre-order, no matter how much the order total, just email me!

Email maya@littledudesanddivas.com with the subject line

FREE BABYLEGS WITH MY JJB PRE-ORDER

Just email me with that subject line with either Boy or Girl at the end and I'll add a FREE pair of BabyLegs to your Ju Ju Be Pre-Order!!!

NOW Do you wanna get a FREE BE MINE LUSH PAISLEY?!
If your Ju Ju Be Spring '09 Pre-order is OVER $100 you are eligible to receive the free Ju Ju Be Be Mine Lush Paisley!
Refer a friend to us to place a Ju Ju Be Pre-order of their own over $100.

Make sure they mention who referred them in the comments section with the note:

$100 + LUSH BE MINE

And we'll add the Ju Ju Be Be Mine Lush Paisley to YOUR Pre-Order.

Please note: Both Pre-orders must be over $100 to qualify YOU for the free Be Mine.

Order total will be calculated only on the Pre-Order JJB's not on in stock Ju Ju Be's or any additional items.

One pair of BabyLegs and/or Be Mine per household.

Don't forget to have your friends refer THEIR friends so THEY can get a Be Mine TOO!

Free Be Mine Offer valid only on referred orders starting. 2/20/09

Offer good until Ju Ju Be shipment arrives or while supplies last.

If you post this promo please include entire post with all the information.

Thank you all for your support and loyalty.WE LOVE YOU! :)

Timi & Leslie Toulouse Diaper Bag!

2009-02-25T17:01:00.000-08:00

We have ONE LAST Timi & Leslie Toulouse diaper bag. It's gorgeous!

Rich leather and gorgeous fabrics make up the Toulouse bébé bag collection.
Leather Stroller straps, exterior convenience pockets, water resistant lining, several inside compartments for wipes and and diapers, key/toy clip & matching changing pad.
12"h x 18"w x 4"d

Originally $235.94 now $117.97!!!
50% OFF!

Free shipping in the US AND you STILL get the free mini baby blanket!
Get the last one here!

Friends

2009-02-25T16:49:00.000-08:00

Friends lovers, I finally got all the seasons... yay!
Yup yup.... David surprised me with the seasons I was missing! He bought them for me for our 7 monthaverssary.
Can you blame me for being in love?
So if you love friends but you don't have the seasons, get them!
Bloopers that aren't on youtube and the interviews are awesome.
If you're as addicted as I am you will love the cut outs.
I'm as anal as Monica, as floopy as Pheobe and as sarcastic as Chandler.
Now you know me! :)

So MUCH To Do!

2009-02-25T16:44:00.000-08:00

How do you do it!??!!?
I just don't see myself with baby 1 on the hip, baby 2 in the stroller, working, cleaning, cooking, running errands and living life!
Moms you are superwomen!

So how do you do it?

Between the apartment being in BAD shape, the puppy, work and the inability to cook I'm ALREADY going crazy!

Any suggestions? A special tea to add more hours to the day? :)

A great 50% off addition

2008-10-22T10:33:00.001-07:00

You know those mini baby blankets your baby loves? Yeah well now we have some for 50% off! AND you can make your own set!
You can do a 3-6 piece set and choose the animals you like. We have the Pink and Blue Lambs, a Bear, Giraffe, Frog and Duck.

They are super soft, super cute and we have had customers EXPRESS them because their babies love 'em so much!

The have bunched up corners for baby to chew for comfort. The animal heads make the blankets more interesting and easy to warm up to and the super soft material is addictive. Soft to the touch and makes a wonderful security blanket.
These mini baby blankets are great as gifts. I'm just waiting for a super special gift wrap request... I'm thinking I MIGHT be able to work out a merry go round type gift wrap. Been thinking about it for a while but I think there would be some kinks to work out :)
We shall see... HEY! Request the merry go round gift wrap! It's not something we offer (gift wrap takes a long time and this one would take a LONG time) but I'll pull some strings to have it done for the first person that asks for it on a 5/6 piece set :)
If anyone actually does request it, I'll take pics and post. Should come out amazing!

What's your idea of an awesome vacation?

2008-10-16T18:43:00.001-07:00

So there's the poll to the right... VOTE!
My fave is a CRUISE BABY!
My first was a Carnival cruise and when they say fun ship, they mean it!
It was beautiful and amazing and exciting and so much fun!
And of course what happens on the ship stays on the ship cause lord knows our drunk moments should not be mentioned hee hee.
That cruise gave alcohol a new meaning!
We stopped at San Juan, Saint Thomas and Saint Marten..... I probably didn't spell that correctly :(

The islands were beautiful!
We stopped at the Senior Frog's in San Juan and lemme tell yah people, THE BEST BAR IN THE WORLD!
Daytime is ok at the bar but at night, it's AMAZING!
It's a touristy bar so you KNOW "fun" happens there. The drinks are outstanding not to mention the free shots! They had people standing on the stage or on chairs pouring shots into our mouths as we danced. I know many of you have heard of this place but you HAVE to go to understand just how much fun it is!

In St. Thomas.... this is IF I'm remembering the island correctly there's a lift that takes you to the top of a mountain. You can see the island from up there and it's an absolutely breathtaking view.
The ship itself is great. When you're stuck on a ship for a while, you be come friends with EVERYONE!
We were 2 people and being the social person I am... we ended up being a group of over 50 people! It was great! The night club on board had an amazing DJ and YES you were able to put in special requests so I somehow actually got half the club to dance Cotton Eye Joe... Hey! I had to! I promised the DJ if he would put that song on, it would be danced to!
And the spa was fantastic. If you book on the first day FOR the first day, you get a discount.... not to mention the masseur was unbelievable. The hair salon was not so great unfortunately. They don't really know what they're doing but I guess for the week long guests it's enough to survive.
The pools were awesome. There were a few and also hot tubs. Only thing that bummed me out was that they close after a certain hour whereas the Royal Caribbean cruises I've been on keep their pools and hot tubs open all the time. And they had a water slide too! It's pretty nice seeing the whole ship in the middle of nowhere before you go down the hatch
They also had a piano bar where we had an absolute blast. The piano was on a rotating stage and we were all able to sit around the player. He had a mini basketball hoop on the piano and we could request a song for a dollar. Technically we found out later that he wasn't supposed to do special requests for money but business is business I guess.
We all sang along, drank and were definitely merry!
They had karaoke, name that tune, how to make towel animals, pictionary, color war, pool side parties and games, shows, competitions, scavenger hunts, survivor, classes, bars, coffee shops, restaurants and so much more!
You can find anything and everything you need on these ships including fun people that know how to have a blast just like you.

Now I don't remember which island this was on (shocking!) but we snorkeled....
Now snorkeling is pretty interesting. We signed up for this specific one because we were going to see ship wrecks under water and then get to feed the fish... not to mention free rum!
So yeah it was great but my god.... I won't do it again.
For 45 minutes we were swimming around these ship wrecks and I just wanted to feed the damn fish.... so we finally got the mushy cubes of food.... it was nice.... I put my head under water and pushed a cube away and was SUPER excited to see an array of fish attack the food. They were beautiful. Different sizes and colors you could only imagine. So I threw another cube in their direction and got excited again.... same with the third cube and then I said "screw it" and pushed the whole chunk of cube at them to see them go crazy.... WOOHOOO!!!!!!! then I left :)
Call it A.D.D. if you like but by that time I was heaving and attempting to stay above water.

All in all this cruise was one of my best experiences! I would much rather spend time on the ocean, tanning and meeting people, playing games and dressing up for dinner, dancing away the night with questionable sobriety and eating anything in sight!
Oh and the room service is FREE BABY and 24 HOURS!

I can see why people like traveling the world to see sights and stuff but I can't imagine anything more memorable, fun and exciting as a cruise!
So yeah.... my vote was for the cruise.
What's YOUR vote?

BabyLegs at 50% OFF?!?!

2008-10-16T18:26:00.000-07:00

WAYYYY!
So we added some BabyLegs for 50% off.... yeah you read correctly! 50% OFF!!!!
Super cute and perfect for the winter.
And you can laugh all you want but I own 2 pairs myself thank you very much!
They're great for baby legs and arms... but they fit adults arms too!
They funky up my outfits and keep my arms warm.... so cute!
Check 'em out!

BabyLegs Leg Warmers

BabyLegs Leg Warmers make a great all year round addition to your child's wardrobe. BabyLegs Leg Warmers come in a wide variety of colors and patterns to match any fun outfit! The BabyLegs Leg Warmers can be used on arms as well and help your little one make a fashion statement!
BabyLegs Leg Warmers
• Make diaper changes a breeze
• Protect soft knees from harsh surfaces
• Keep legs (and arms) warm year round
• Provide light weight sun protection
• Make potty training easier
• Jazz up any dance class
• Make a fun fashion statement with styles for every occasion
• Gapiosis: The space between the sock and the bottom of the pant, often accentuated by being held in arms or by being placed in a carrier or stroller.
Sweet little BabyLegs all over the world are being exposed to the chilly air because of gapiosis. Protect their sweet little legs from wind burn and chill with BabyLegs Leg Warmers!
• Feet remain free to allow for successful crawling, walking, and dancing. BabyLegs also help keep socks on!

BabyLegs Leg Warmers fit most kids from newborns to size 10 so that BabyLegs will warm your little ones for a long time. BabyLegs Leg Warmers are 33 cm long. They're fun to use as arm warmers too! When it starts out cold in the morning and then changes temperature you can use BabyLegs Leg Warmers and then remove them as the day warms up.
BabyLegs Leg Warmers are cotton and have an over-lock stitch on it’s cuffs to prevent unraveling.

BabyLegs has grown from one mom’s diaper bag essential to an essential product for all. They began as a solution to keep little legs warm, and now the uses are endless!

A stay-at-home mom created BabyLegs to keep her baby's little legs warm, while she was diaper free to allow bad rashes to heal. This impromptu invention also protected her from many elements, made diaper changes quick and easy, kept her knees protected while crawling, and provided sun protection.
Beyond all of these benefits, BabyLeg Leg Warmers were also very fashionable. The popularity of BabyLegs spread quickly throughout the world. BabyLegs Leg Warmers can now be found in over 50 countries from Israel to Chile to Iceland.
BabyLegs provides products that allow for freedom of movement, support independence and creative self expression. BabyLegs was created out of a desire to see a child run free, breathe and explore the world unencumbered by anything that might get in the way.
We celebrate the exploration of life and self and will strive to evolve with you as you grow. Our commitment to being always new and constantly cool allows us to do just that.
We hope you enjoy our sweet BabyLegs Leg Warmers!

The Amy Kathryn Poppy Leopard

2008-10-08T19:55:00.000-07:00

Ok so yeah.... I'm loving it!
I haven't used it till today because I NEED outside pockets which this doesn't have BUT ha ha! Now that it's colder, I'm wearing a jacket..... and duh! The jacket has pockets soooooo who needs the outside pockets!?!??
Not me!

Loving the bag!
All I have to say is B E A UTIFUL!

Click here to get 10% off the Amy Kathryn Poppy Leopard!

Comfortable straps, roomy enough for what I need and the minimal pockets and organization leave room for my Mint Julep Be Quick by Ju Ju Be!!! Gotta love the accessories! The Ju Ju Be Be Quick is a GREAT item! I usually use it when I go to weight watchers meetings. Fits all I need. And when I used to go to they gym.... WAY BACK WHEN, I would carry it around the gym. I was able to fit my ginormous MP3 player, a jump rope, water bottle, lip gloss, gum and a burp cloth all inside this little accessory! AWEEEEEEESOME!

And I know I know.... haven't posted about WW in a while.... hmmmmmm can anyone guess why?!?! It all started with a wedding that had amazing food I couldn't resist... then the damn holidays, birthdays and special days turned into ANY days being special days for no special reason...

MUST GO BACK!
Cross your fingers all! I'll go on Saturday!.... I think....

Engaged

2008-10-06T04:08:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for the congrats and well wishes!
Yeah... we're engaged!
So everyone has been asking about our story... you don't know much because it's only been a short time so I'm killing as many birds with one stone and here is our story...

Most of you remember Mike. Well obviously that's over. We had a great run and I truly believe he blessed me. We always joked about how every girl he dates finds the man she's meant to be with after him :)
If you read this Mike, thank you... and I wish only happiness for you!

So we broke up and I was back to square one. Online dating of course... on Jdate thank you very much. Now Jdate is a very special website. Supposed to be exclusively for Jewish singles but we have some Goyim there too. I had been on and off it for a while and met my share of nuts too! Figured maybe pass the time with it... hey you never know!
David sent me a message one day... didn't bother reading his profile (I've read so many and for the most part, they're repetitive). But I saw his pictures and he was soooo cute!
This was on a Friday, June 27th. We chatted most of the day and finally had a 5 minute conversation over the phone. He had guests that evening so I told him if he wanted to go out later, to call me.
11 at night, JUST as I had finished cooking dinner I received a text message from him "I know you're still up, wanna go out?"
Cocky huh?
I don't know how the stars were lined up that night but I wasn't up for going out and nonetheless I got my fat butt up and met him.
My first impression was "hmmmm not sure about the outfit but I can work with it"
So we sat there and waited for the train... small talked and met an odd man that we tried to help. He claimed he was on his way to the hospital and wasn't feeling well. Pulled out pills to show he was on medication. After attempting to convince him that he will pay for his cab to the hospital, David decided to give up and the small talk continued.
I THINK that old man was an angel in disguize sent to show me that David has such a good heart.
'El Greco was our diner of choice (for lack of anything better) and once again my theory was strengthened about their terrible food.
Mind you we only had an appetizer but my god it was HORRIBLE! The alcohol on the other hand was GREAT!
So we had some shots and I learned about my future husband.
At some point I was so intrigued, my head rested on my hand and I listened to every word (although I WAS a little tipsy by then)... I think this was the turning point where I fell in love... sounds stupid and unreal but who's got the engagement ring 3 months later?! he he he

Left the diner and headed towards a local bar. Now David isn't too tall so Mr. Cocky is also picky about high heels. I found myself walking barefoot in the streets of Brooklyn with a stranger holding my shoes and his own. His socks were in his pockets, both pairs of shoes in one hand and in the other he held my hand.
At the bar we ordered a few more shots... I was drunk but I remember him looking at me and saying "I hope you don't get mad when I do this"
Then he kissed me and I fell for him!

By the time we got back to the train station I was GONE! So so drunk!
He had to run down to the grocery store to buy me some water! No food and man shots.... not a good combination.
He walked me home, I opened the door and hugged the toilet for the next half hour.
I was sure I wouldn't hear from him again but when I woke up the next morning... with NO hangover thanks to my little trick... I found he had sent me a message to see how I was doing.
That day we met again and so began our relationship!

I had never met a man so devoted to a woman's happiness (aside from both of my amazing brothers). Ever since, he has done so much to make me happy and smile. I've received more flowers from David than I have from all of the men I've ever dated put together!
I wish for every woman to find the man of her dreams and hope more men like David exist out there... we might be less bitchy to eachother if more women were happy :)

So for a while now we've been saying that we want to take the Circle Line cruise around the city. On September 30th, second day of Rosh Hashanna he took me! Didn't tell me where we were going or anything!
It was beautiful even though I was sleepy (I started getting sick the night before).
In the back you're able to smoke so.... that's where we were!
At one point he kept trying to convince me to go to the front and the stubborn ass that I am, I didn't wanna go and just wanted to chill in the back... HEY! I wasn't feeling well grrrrr
Finally he convinced me!
So towards the end of the cruise, there I am in front sitting on the thing that you tie the rope around it while hugging his legs.
He began to tell me about how the day before he spoke to my mom... this is where he pulled away from me and I drew a complete blank!
As he stepped back, he opened his bag to pull out the ring, got down on bended knee and proposed.
You know, I always imagined there would be a proposal speech...
You're the most wonderful woman I have ever met, I can't imagine my life without you, I love you more then life itself yada yada yada
He DID say some things but ask me what he said!
I HAVE NO IDEA!
When I say I drew a blank, all went kaput!
I just saw the love of my life on bended knee holding out a ring...
Right there in front of everyone!
We hugged and kissed and now yeah! WE'RE ENGAGED!

The non horror film that horrified me to the bone!

2008-09-26T05:12:00.000-07:00

I've heard people rave about this movie and I finally decided to watch it! Now I'm pretty sensitive when it comes to movies. Someone dies, a dog gets shot, a baby is born... yeah I'll get teary eyed but MY GOD just the reality that things like this happen probably on a daily basis... CREEPED ME OUT!
Not just one main character in the movie so there are a few people to follow. Start out with the son. He's taking his mom's tv which you find is to get a few bucks for a fix.
The mother is waiting terrified in her bedroom as if he's a mad man... meantime you learn he's just a junkie and she's the one with a few nuts and bolts missing.

The role of crazy mom played by Ellen Burstyn, was an absolute masterpiece. She captured the essence of an individual crazed by the every day stress of a mediocre life and pressures of society. I was so impressed by her devotion to the character and her ability to play a difficult role with ease.
She starts out fairly normal but you can tell off the bat that not everything is kosher. She's alone and proceeds to mention her isolation and lonliness in the movie as she vents to her son. An untypical long scene of gut spilling just makes you FEEL for this woman.
The reality of the older people in our lives having WHAT to live for?! She mentions that she has no one to care for and all I kept thinking is 'my god... how many women must feel that way'
Women naturally have it in them to care for others, to provide emotional strength and pamper. What is a widow to do?!
So she sits at home glued to the television watching the same brainwashing show.
Suddenly she has a reason to do something with herself. She begins to take weightloss pills to look good for a TV show! Now we all know that when someone tells you you're going to be on TV, it won't be tomorrow if at all but this is where she starts going JUST a little crazy. The pills take care of the rest.
The actress in her unbelievable role makes you realize just how easy it is to lose your senses. With the pressure out there today, people never know their own worth and strive towards something unnecessary all the while THINKING that's what will make them happy.
So she loses weight and her mind goes with it. You find it in your heart to sympathize with the fictional character.

The rest of the movie is just as disturbing. You see the poor mother losing her mind as the time goes by and her junkie son and friends ruining their lives for a fix.
It amazes me that drugs can bring people to this horrible state in life.
For any of you that are drug addicts, PLEASE SEEK HELP!
If ANY part of this movie is realistic, please do something about your addiction. I'm sure it's easier said than done and what do I know if I have never been pulled into those habits but I hope you find a way to get out of it.

The son's arm gets infected but he doesn't do anything about it.... again! It's all about the damn fix! So he keeps injecting through the infected area, ends up in the hospital just to get his arm amputated.... HORRIBLE!

So you see the son and his friends getting high and doing what they can for a fix. Risking their lives, health and sanity to get that momentary feeling of denying reality in a physical state.

What hit me was when the girlfriend played by Jennifer Connely becomes so desperate, she sells her body for her fix. It gets to the point where she gets invited to a sex party.
There are men all around a low stage where each gets a first look at females doing things to eachother that you don't get to see even in porn movies. And they have special requests too!

I don't know if any men like the ones in the movie will ever see this post but if any guys are into that bull shit, think of your mother or sister in that situation and get over your hard on!
For a woman to put herself in that situation, she must be in bad shape in her life.
One man yells out ass to ass! So they take a huge dildo and do what he asks.

As horrible as this movie is, I want to see it again. I'm sort of in denial because it's so hard for me to believe these situations.
See the movie yourself... What do YOU think?

Stress anyone?

2008-09-25T03:50:00.000-07:00

How does stress effect us?
Me? Well I'm always stressed. Seems like there is always reason to be and having every joe shmo tell me otherwise is just more stressful!
So yeah, I know what stress is doing to me in general. I live it every day... don't deny it, you do too.
Symptoms:
Not sleeping well at night
Finding your appetite to be insatiable
Hair loss
Annoying habits
Irritable all the time
Fatigue
Undefined menstrual cycle
Acne
And oh so much more!
And these are only on the surface! What about the chemical reactions in your body? Think it doesn't effect your every day life? Think you're handling it well! HA! DENIAL!

Sometimes you feel like your head is going to explode and sometimes you hope for it!
Fight or Flight BABY:

Stress is what you feel when you have to handle more than you are used to. When you are stressed, your body responds as though you are in danger. It makes hormones that speed up your heart, make you breathe faster, and give you a burst of energy. This is called the fight-or-flight (Web MD)

Stress effects you more than you know. I know the diagram isn't big enough but basically it shows you the different areas that stress can effect you.
Whether you're at work, school or just life is driving you up the walls, you find yourself unable to cope whether you can admit it or not! Life isn't easy, and no one promised it would be!
Your boss can be the biggest pain and you feel unappreciated. Your spouse just doesn't get WHY it is that you're stressed or your scraping for that month's rent. The kids just won't behave and no meal is satisfying enough to their picky needs. The in laws are hounding you for yet another grandchild but they don't know you're doctor just told you there is a health risk involved. The antique bowl you got for your wedding just broke, you sliced your finger while cooking, the shower has no pressure and the moths made holes in your suit!
What else can possible go wrong!?!??
And someone had the nerve to eat your Moist Maker Turkey Sandwich!??!?!
OK I say we do THIS from now on! RAGE damnit! Someone pisses you off? Throw a blow! Spouse getting on your nerves? Throw something and don't put out! Boss is pissing you off, shred all the important paperwork! In laws pressuring you? MOVE far far away! Kids driving you crazy? That's it! NO DINNER FOR A MONTH!

Ok... let's be realistic now...
There should be at least one person in your life that can make you feel better. Where a hug or massage relieves some of that days stress. Breathing techniques might work for you, I prefer the cig break, some tears and chocolate! VENT! Despite what you think, it helps! Just make sure to vent to the right crowd. Not everyone truly cares what you're going through and when you realize the person you've been venting to just wants you to shut up already, that can only add to your stress.
We live in a crazy world people! No one wants to take on their own lives and deal with other people's problems but what helps you, might help others too. Being nice and thoughtful has lost all meaning... How about we start to remedy that?
How about you? Need an ear to talk off? Email me! I'll listen if you do!

My Reese Li Black Bead

2008-09-23T03:34:00.000-07:00

So yeah it's a diaper bag and yeah it's pretty big and yeah... I'm loving it! I was thinking of getting the Leaf Lexington first. Nice fall colors and so so pretty... but ended up going with Black Bead. This bag ROCKS!
It's super roomy and the straps are surprisingly comfortable. The first day I took it out, had my laptop in there. I'm getting the Lexie Barnes computer case insert because that wasn't so ideal. Definitely need a lap top cover if you're going to use the Lexington as a laptop bag.

So I use one outside pocket for my cell and metro card and the other for a water bottle... perfect fit!
It's big enough to store my sweater or light jacket too when I'm not using them. The inside pockets are full with things too and I am LOVING this bag!
The Reese Li Lexington sells for about $150 but feel free to click on them to see the entire collection and get 10% off!

The Shithole!

2008-09-19T05:39:00.001-07:00

So yeah as I've mentioned it's a shithole but we have our reasons. We actually turned it into a livable place but our main issue right now is the minimal mold on the walls of the first floor. Small circles of mold. We did some research and read up that it effect children and older people with weak immune systems. My guy is a bull and can handle it all and so far I haven't had any symptoms at all, we've been here for a week.

We're not planning on a life in this house but it's a temporary set up till we get on our feet.
Does anyone know of easy and CHEAP remedies? Something we can do that won't take up much time as we're both working and still have yet to set this place up a little more?

It's actually only in the living room and dining room.
I heard I can scrub the walls with soapy bleach water in an attempt to kill it but my guy read that sometimes dead mold, if not fully removed can be more harmful.
He has allergies and they haven't gotten worse since we've been here so I'm only blindly assuming I'm being paranoid... LIORR You're making me paranoid! :)
That's my sis in law... She is convinced the mold will have serious effects on our health.

Sooooo Any opinions? Vote on the poll! Leave a comment! Give us suggestions PLEASE! Either get me out of this house and feed into my paranoia or reassure me that a few months in a 2 room moldy home is ok and not such a big deal!

Thanks all!

More weight lost more weight loss to go

2008-09-16T19:59:00.000-07:00

So this weekend was at weight watchers again. And I lost 3.4 pounds hee hee!
Pretty psyched thank you very much!

And now my guy is even hooked on the snacks... I called him today to find out he dipped into my weight watchers snack stash... Ahhhhh a stash filled with Peanut butter mini bars, chocolate raspberry mini bars, Chocolate caramel mini bars, fruit and nut bars, sweet and salty bars... luckily my low fat Pringles and Fiber one bars were well hidden hee hee hee.

FYI Caramel Fiber Ones are so tasty! They're slightly bigger than the chocolate and a little more chewy too!

And now as I'm searching for web images to add to this post I found a blog with a post about the Fat Free Pringles that had me on the floor laughing hysterically!

Here's the link:
http://webnugs.blogspot.com/2006_10_01_archive.html

MUST READ.. She had me crackin!

Show me the MONEY!

2008-09-16T19:55:00.000-07:00

My guy is great and he left Israel just to be with me. So now he's here looking for a job.
I don't expect anyone to really read this but if you have any offers... SOS
Leave a comment and lemme know :)

It's a Shithole but it's our Shithole

2008-09-16T19:32:00.000-07:00

Ever been with someone you love so much that nothing matters but being with them?
So when I say shithole, I mean it!
Walls are falling apart, ceiling parts are coming down, never ending dust, tile residue on the floors, the wood flooring has gotten wet from leaks so many times it's become completely uneven, the kitchen has like 15 layers of scum and icky stuff and I mean this house is in BAD shape...

BUT we decided we want to be together enough to live in it grrrrr
So we started cleaning up.... walls still falling apart and the ceiling is still coming down but it's getting cleaner by the day!

Had fun painting the bedroom on Sunday... things got a little out of hand when we had a paint fight.... he ended up with an imprint of my hand on his head and we were both basically covered in slate blue gray paint... so much fun he he he

And so exciting! Went shopping... mind you it was at discount stores but nonetheless I bought house type stuff...
I got the cutest coasters... for 99 cents thank you very much! And a bunch of other stuff too!

Might sound stupid but I'm happy lol

So now... ANYONE have any ideas on a cheap and easy way to make over a house?

Fall In Love With Me When I'm In Sweats!

2008-09-07T07:37:00.000-07:00

I told my guy today, I'm going to get my nails done for when I see him on Tuesday. He smiled and sent me a link to a Katt Williams comedy thing where he talks about how guys couldn't care less about that stuff.

It's true! Women do a lot of things to please men. It's become such a normal way of life that we don't feel it's unnecessary. So we go out and get our nails done, and buy pretty clothing, we spend hundreds on make up and the purses and shoes. We try to find the best hair products so that each strand flows perfectly around our shoulders and stress over every little imperfection.

When you're in a relationship, your guy always tells you you're beautiful without make up, I don't care if your nails are done or not, you look amazing in the morning in your sweats....

But when was the last time a guy told you he fell in love with this girl he saw at 6 am sitting on her porch in sweats with crust in her eyes, her hair in Afro mode with her cute blemishes sticking out? When was the last time your guy friend told you he's dating the girl he saw on the train wearing torn jeans and a stained shirt with dry cracked skin, peeling lips and gel flakes in her hair? When have you ever heard a man say he fell for her unshaven legs, flabby thighs, armpit hair and bushy eyebrows?!

Ah ha!!!!
See now those are things that can be dealt with later in the relationship when you live together or spend enough time with each other to get used to the flaws we cover up. But you won't look at a girl and say "man! she looks hot with her rolls hanging out!" or "Look how beautiful she is when she smiles with spinach in her teeth" or "God I love a woman that eats like a horse"!

So say all you want dear men but we do all the things we do because WE KNOW!
So yeah, we appreciate the compliments more than any of you can understand and it reassures us to hear you tell us we don't NEED to do all we do but we know that if we didn't, at least in the beginning you wouldn't have taken a second look. And if we stop further in the relationship you ask us what's changed?
It's human! And we are not in denial my friends. We love your attention when you mention the soft material we're wearing as you run your hands on it, we love how big your eyes become when you see us in a tight dress that accentuates the finer points of our bodies, we live for your stumbling words when we kiss you with soft lips along your neck and we die to know that everything we do does in fact add up to you thinking "I can never live without her"

And you cover up flaws too my dears! I doubt you'll scratch your balls, fart at dinner, pick your nose, wear pajamas, and burp excessively on a first date. And if you're actually doing all that in public I highly doubt you expect a girl to turn around and say "That's the guy I wanna marry"!

MEN! Tell her she's beautiful! Tell her she's amazing! Tell her you can't imagine anyone more perfect whether she's in sweats or the dress that makes you want to throw her on the bed animalistically! But tell her you appreciate that she didn't cut her nails so short because she knows you love it when she scratches your back. And tell her you appreciate that she went out of her way to get the ingredients you love for dinner even though it wouldn't have mattered to you either way. And tell her how unbelievably sexy she looks in that expensive piece of "barely any fabric" lingerie (even though it wasn't worth her money) because she does it all to please you!
Tell her you love that she called to make sure you're ok because if you love her the same you would be worried too. And show her how much you appreciate that the house is organized even though she walked in the house 10 minutes before you did, had time to cook, feed the kids and STILL organize that day's mess. Appreciate the new sheets on the bed, and the expensive cooking utensils that only help her cook better for you.
Appreciate her wardrobe!!! Maybe some of you don't notice but if you ever tell us a certain style doesn't look as good as a different style... our clothing preferences change!!! TELL HER you noticed she changed her perfume, and her new haircut, her pink painted toenails and her loss of a pound or two.
As much as some women deny it, we do it to please you! It makes us feel good and makes us more confident because it's something you notice or something you comment on.

And when you're in love guys, you subconsciously change too! In the relationship cycle, we do things to please each other because that's simply the way it is otherwise there would be no relationships at all!

We love you because you went out of your way to buy us flowers, because you washed the dishes after we cooked dinner, because suddenly we felt your hand caressing our back and because you cut your hair the way we like. Because you stop us in our tracks to kiss us in public, because you hug us from behind while we're cooking and because you texted us that you love! Because you listened to something we said and did something about it and because you held our hand and told your friends about us and because you tell us every day how amazing we are!
Sounds simple enough but you wouldn't do all those things unless you were trying to please us.

Relationships are an amazing thing because you work for each other out of love and so it doesn't seem like work at all because your reward is PRICELESS!

Weight Watchers

2008-09-06T12:10:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share some info. Firstly I love the system, love the fact that I can eat what I want and love the food variations I've come up with!
And now that I'm logging, I'm realizing so many new things!
For instance, those of you that chew sugar free gum... check the calorie count on that! I honestly never bothered checking and I used to chew stick after stick of gum! The gum I chew has 5 calories! Which seems like nothing but by the time the taste runs out of that one, I'm stuffing another in my mouth and by the end of the day I would have at least 50 calories worth in my system! CRAZY!
So yeah, I'm logging! Trying my best to keep track of it all!

I love the weight watchers foods too! There are a lot of point friendly foods that you can buy but my god! Half of them taste terrible!!! I bought the Weight Watchers string cheese and it tastes GREAT! And they came out with these Latte Straws. I take one cup of milk with 2 ice cubes and if I'm in the mood for more sweetness I add a Splenda or two and throw in the straw. The straw has these balls of flavor that melt as you suck the milk through so you get a flavor burst with every sip!

I tried some of their 1 point mini bars too. The chocolate caramel and the oatmeal raisin are pretty good but I really like the raspberry chocolate bites. Today I bought the peanut butter mini bars, I have yet to taste 'em but anything with peanut butter has to be gooood!

This week as I was logging, they had a snack suggestion on that day's page. The apple stacker. You remove the core of an apple, slice it in 3 and put 1 tbsp of peanut butter in between the slices. It's a little hard to keep the peanut butter there but I enjoyed the combination.

The Weight Watchers yogurts are great too! They have so many flavors and 1 point each! PLEASE next time you grab for a yogurt, just take a look at the back! It may say low fat but check the calories! See how much sugar is in it! You will be amazed!!!

Fact is, when we look in the mirror we would like to see a thin and fit person staring back. Women AND men... Many disregard the fact that men also have many issues with their appearance. They sometimes deny caring about their looks but everyone wants to love what they see in the mirror and rarely anyone ever does.
Many people blame society for the unfairness towards the overweight but we're all using that as an excuse to be the way we are! Being thin and fit is a GOOD thing and we should all want to be that way not for the attention (I'm being a hypocrite :), not because we're told, not because we envy the bikini wearing models and the muscular men that have women drooling but because it's HEALTHY! When you can run up a flight of stairs without suffocating by the time you hit the middle, that's an accomplishment! When you have more energy to play with your kids, and walk out of the house feeling good and confident, that's an accomplishment!
Do it for whatever reason, stupid or small but do it!

I grew up as a fat child. Not overweight, fat! I was laughed at and would come home crying all the time because children can be mean. I struggled with weight all my life and no matter how happy I may have been at times, it's not the same as when I feel confident enough to go on the evil scale because I know I lost even a LITTLE weight.
I used to be a damn size 18!!! Now I'm fluctuating between 14 and 12. And I would like to reach the point where I can look in the mirror and not feel the need to suck my stomach in so that I can stand to see myself! Although FYI that does help slowly build stomach muscles :)

And another FYI. I learned something sad and interesting today at the meeting.
There are over 180 MILLION starving people in the world!
BUT!!!
There are over 1 BILLION overweight people in the world!
It's sad that the greatest country in the world is suffering from an obesity epidemic. That one of our biggest crisis is obesity!

Starting next week, for 6 weeks, Weight Watchers is doing something amazing! They told us today that for 6 weeks they will donate 1 POUND OF FOOD for every POUND lost during these weeks! How wonderful is that!?
I say, BE SELFISH! Don't do it because you want more to be donated (as amazing as that is) but you have to do it firstly for yourself!

And I'm hoping this post of mine will help me out if I ever feel like reaching for a 17 point piece of carrot cake :)

If you've lost any weight, post a comment. How much did you lose? How did you lose it? What tips do you have for me? (and my readers... if you're out there :)

It Begins and Hopefully Will Continue!

2008-09-06T11:28:00.000-07:00

So I went to a weight watchers meeting last Saturday after lord knows how long that I haven't been. I was in a bad mood... gained weight, PMS'ing, my guy is away and just a mosh of different things. I came there with such a pessimistic outlook... came home and for the rest of the day as well as Sunday, I SPLURGED like there was no tomorrow!
Monday came and suddenly something changed. I grabbed the monthly log book and started writing down everything I ate. I even bought vitamins which I've been saying I'll start taking forever but was always too lazy to GO BUY THEM!
Today I went in for the meeting and I honestly didn't expect anything. Got my period so I'm super bloated and whether or not I lost any weight... I feel HUGE!
***I hope men thank god every morning for the simple fact that they're not women***

Anyway... moody, bloated and not so happy, I got on the scale. In less than a week, dear Maya lost 2.6 pounds!Which brings my complete weight loss to a little over 35 pounds total! WOO HOO!!!

Mind you I had lost 50 and gained almost 20 back but I'm back on and hopefully for good! WISH ME LUCK!

It's so so hard to control but I'm hoping with some determination and the support of my family and guy, I'll be able to stick to the damn program :)

I really do love Weight Watchers. This week I've had pizza, chocolate and anything else I wanted including all the healthy stuff!
Click Here to find out more about Weight Watchers.

I Got It!

2008-09-06T11:13:00.000-07:00

I finally got the Amy Kathryn Poppy Leopard Diaper Bag! I haven't had a chance to use it just yet. I kind of wanted to use it for a trip to Boston tomorrow but that got canceled unfortunately but I'll probably pack my stuff in it for Monday :)
I'm pretty psyched! I always loved animal prints but they usually look too tacky. This bag looks fabulous and as usual the images don't do the diaper bag justice at all!
It's pretty big and I love the suede with dark gold print. The touch of leopard trimming makes the bag!
I tried it on just to see if it's comfortable without anything in it... let's put it this way, if it wasn't comfortable I wouldn't be posting about it :)

Click Here to check it out and get an automatic 10% off!

Finally The 50% Off Section Is Launched!

2008-09-04T17:29:00.000-07:00

So we decided to add a 50% off section to the website. Pretty Cool!
Not a lot of items will be in there at once but we'll be changing it up from time to time BUT here's the tiny catch! ALL of the items in that section are limited and once they sell out, they're gone!
Check it out HERE

And be sure to take a look at these CMK (Change Mat Kits) by Baby Kaed SUPER CUTE!

Message In A Blog

2008-09-02T20:15:00.000-07:00

Like a message in a bottle I write to my love

For I know this love note will be found

In a sea of web links awaiting discovery

My words will escape his lips in pure sound

He will know my every love for him of truth

And despite his youthful doubts, thoughts unwanting

Every line and in between will ring with fact

That this found love as promised be binding

And so to you loved one I write all that is felt

In a tear or a heartbeat or a breath of a thought

From start of a moment having met such a man

This love I assumed would forever be sought

Existence is true I have felt it in disbelief

For those that know of such a lost concept of love

To the one I ache, smile and cry for

In mind and in body this message in a blog

glitter-graphics.com

I MISS HIM!!!!

2008-09-02T16:18:00.000-07:00

Ever miss someone so much it would hurt to think about them? Ever miss 'em so much it would make you cry? When you love someone, missing them is supposed to be an awful feeling no? You miss the hugs and kisses. And miss that feeling you have when you're together... miss knowing you'll be seeing them in the morning when you wake up or knowing you'll see them when you get back from work...
Missing kind of sucks people!
My guy has been away for almost a month and won't be back for 8 more days! GRRRRR is all I have to say! And what are these thoughts I'm having in my mind? The dreams of a life together...
It's cool and frightening, exciting and overwhelming! And I'm sure it's the feeling you get when you know you're with someone you're meant to be with.

If ANYONE reads this post, leave a comment. Tell me how YOU knew the person you're with was the one you were meant for!

The Fleurville Wristlet

2008-09-01T18:28:00.000-07:00

I love this thing. The Fleurville FOB Denim Wristlet rocks! I originally got it for a cruise I was going on. AND IT WAS PERFECT! I had my passport and itinerary and documents handy at all times. When I wasn't using it I threw it in my purse and it didn't take up any room. And when I knew I would need the stuff inside, I kept it around my wrist and it was super comfortable.
Just to be sure I wouldn't lose it, I clipped it around the purse strap while it was inside the bag.
This little accessory is G-R-E-A-T!

It comes if Fleurville's awesome prints like Botanical Coral and Tangerine Ogo. Fun prints, great accessory!

The ultimate gift wrap!

2008-08-31T08:26:00.000-07:00

Having twins must be amazing. Having a twin boy and girl is just fun!!! For me at least because the gift wrap comes out AMAZING! Never knew I had it in me he he he

This was so much fun to do, about 3 hours worth of work and totally worth it! Just making the base for it was exciting enough as the creativity poured in.

So this is basically a big box cut up and taped to make a display looking gift wrap. In this collection of fine items you will find the following:
Caden Lane Blue and Pink Large Moroccan Bib
Caden Lane Blue and Pink Octagon Piping Trim Blankets
Caden Lane Blue and Pink Octagon Burp Cloths
Diapees and Wipees Blue and Pink Disco Dot Diaper Holders
Angel Dear Blue and Pink Lamb Super Soft Baby Rattles
BabyLegs Jack Jester and Jill Jester Leg Warmers
I purposely set it up so that the genders are separated and look as identical as possible in placement. Symmetry I guess :)
Now how cute is that!??!

The Dream Ring!

2008-08-31T07:27:00.000-07:00

Oh married women... How did you know he was the one?
Is it that gut feeling, the way he treats you? The way he stares or the time he sacrifices JUST to stare? The touch of his hand on your body or the warm tingling kiss? The way he reassures you you're the only one for him?
Possibly the way he remembers your special moments? Or how he lets you know your world is his own? Or maybe it was when he told you for the thousandth time you're the most beautiful in the world?
Maybe it's the flowers he buys because he knows they make you happy? Or the beautiful bouquet he sent to your job? The way he listens to your every word and record it in his mind because he knows it's important to YOU!?
Or did you know he was the one when he told his family "that's the girl I'm gonna marry", or when he told YOU "you're the woman I want to marry", or when he revealed that the ring is already being custom made!
I never thought the perfect guy existed... I think all of us have that image of the perfect man but are aware that a perfect man does not exist... Well my guy comes closer than I ever thought anyone could possibly get!

You find the guy you know you're meant to be with and your world turns upside down. Your life revolves around their every move, your thoughts involve him and your emotions are a tornado effected by his love.
Suddenly your life changes without you realizing it. You're a better person and everything you've become is a result of your love. How exciting to experience such a love that takes your breath away!
So here's how the ring thing began... I bought a ring when I was on vacation... me... spend $200 on a damn ring?!?!? Totally worth it, beautiful ring with a double row of pink gems all around. LOVE that ring.
My guy had to leave the country so I put the ring in his carry on with a note that said "you can give this to me when you come back to me"... About 5 minutes after passing through security he texted me "be sure that the ring you get back will be worth much more than the ring you left with me"
Uh, can I melt now!?!?
He has a friend that has been dating for 5 years, he's trying to help him move towards marriage so what better way than to go ring shopping with him. He asked me to help with some ring ideas and my god!!!! The rings out there nowadays are GORGEOUS!!!
I found THE website for engagement rings (Thank you facebook!!!) How stunning is THIS!?!?!
I'll have to wait for us to be rich as hell to get it but the dream is quite fun to have! They have what's called the "Insignia Collection" insignia meaning a distinguishing mark. I'm assuming that would be the unbelievable craftsmanship on the ring band itself.
Now me? I like the 3 stone setting but when I saw this, my heart pretty much skipped 10 beats!

I know it sounds cheesy though but I'll be happy with a sterling silver CZ ring for the point of the engagement... then maybe later..... :)
But I had to share the beauty! Check out the rest of their collection here.
Anyway, turns out he just wanted to see my taste and went ring shopping for ME :) I'll post the beauty when I get to announce my engagement... So psyched!

Web MD Rocks!

2008-08-30T18:31:00.000-07:00

I'm always getting emails with interesting articles on weight loss. I loved the last one I read. It states that a proven method of weight loss and keeping the weight off as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle is to record everything you consume on a daily basis.

Here are some quotes from the article:
"If you're anything like me, you have no idea how much food you inhale on a day-to-day basis. Thanks to multitasking, grabbing grub on the go, parking myself in front of the TV while munching, and various other weight-loss crimes, I often barely register that I'm eating. Take last week: I was totally oblivious that I was popping jelly beans into my mouth until my nephew complained that I was about to polish off his bag "

It's so so true!!! You sometimes just don't realize what you're putting in your mouth! When it's over you sometimes think back and hate yourself for not catching it sooner. We often regret half of the foods we eat not to mention the huge portions we're so used to!

"

Americans typically underestimate their daily intake by about 25 percent, reports nutritionist Carrie Latt Wiatt, author of Portion Savvy. The situation gets even more complicated when you eat out. In a 2006 study led by Cornell University, 105 diners in fast-food restaurants were asked how many calories were in their orders. For the small items, almost everyone guessed correctly; for the larger orders, the diners underestimated the calories by a whopping 38 percent. It may be an issue of perception, says study author Brian Wansink, Ph.D. The larger the quantity, the harder it is to make an accurate guess — the same is true for distances and heights.

Even professionals can be tricked by hefty portion sizes. When an NYU researcher asked 200 dietitians to estimate the calorie count of four popular restaurant dishes, the experts lowballed the number for each by a whopping 250 to 700 calories.

So stop assuming and start calculating."

You can't possibly guess the correct number of calories you're eating unless YOU are the one cooking the food OR it specifically states it on the package! So these calories get pushed into the "denial" part of your brain and are forgotten by the time you take the first bite.

Now HERE is something to think about:
"...what about that mini Snickers you snatched from your coworker's stash? Or that spoonful of mashed potatoes you took off your husband's plate?

It's easy to overlook bites, licks, and tastes (known as "BLTs" to professionals). But that's a huge mistake — there are 25 calories, on average, in each mouthful. Translation: Six little bites a day add up to around 15 extra pounds a year."

15 POUNDS A YEAR FROM A FEW NIBBLES HERE AND THERE?!?!? NO WAY!!!!

"I remember one client who was keeping a diary and couldn't understand why she wasn't losing weight," says Bethany Thayer, R.D., spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association. "We were discussing the problem when she took out a peppermint. I asked her how many she ate every day, and she said, ‘A bag.' They're nine calories each, but the whole bag is several hundred."

Even the most innocent "insignificant" foods can add up!

They say every penny add up and it does... but so do the calories!!!

So I went to my weight watchers meeting today for the first time in months! I've been on it for about 2 years. Did amazing in the first 8 months or so... lost 50 pounds!!!
I started out at 230!!! Then reached 179!
And now I'm ashamed to say I am at 196... Damn all the chocolate to hell!!! :)

Well, I made a decision... thanks to the meeting leader that sort of challenged me... I will start to log what I eat! Not making any promises but wish me luck!

The article is very interesting so if you want to read more click here

The Gift Wraps!

2008-08-27T17:48:00.001-07:00

At work is where I really get to show off my creativity! LOVE TO GIFT WRAP! And not the simple "throw it in the box and tape some wrapping on it" type gift wrapping....

Take a look!

Ok well this is a gift wrap with some Caden Lane items, a bib, burp cloth and matching hooded towel set.
And a Black Disco Dot Diapees and Wipees. Super cute not too hard to do.
The base for it is from one of our shipping boxes with a fold at the bottom to hold the items up.
The bib is hanging from the right corner purposely exposing the back corner so that you can tell that it's a bib.
The only thing here that needed to be tied down was the hooded towel on the left. That brown ribbon around it is actually going through 2 holes at the back where it's tied down to secure it in place.
Throw in some filler and wrap up!

Now I wish you could get a better look of this one. I made the base for this one as well. A Zudi & Vi DIVA mini blanket is cascading from the back towards the front, purposely placed to show the four different materials and prints used for the blanket.
One of the swatches has the word DIVA on it so I placed it where you can see it clearly (IRL that is).
Next I took a matching Angel Dear bib and rattle. Again the bib is exposing a corner so that it is visibly clear that it's a bib. As you can see, the bib and rattle are close in the form of "friendship" I guess?
You'll see a lot of that in my gift wraps.

Ok, I'll have more up soon. Unfortunately I couldn't get a hold of all the pics :(
But soon!

Love My Amy Kathryn!

2008-08-26T16:55:00.000-07:00

They are so funky and I'm in love! I can't get enough of the Amy Kathryn Diaper Bags! I of course use them as purses and my god they are AWESOME!
I have the Gladiola in Brown Metallic. Just an FYI, the Amy Kathryn Diaper Bags are super limited. If you see a print you like, GET IT! :)

So the Gladiola has been my pal for weekends and travel. LOVE IT!!! The 2 side pockets are life savers. I was on a cruise and paid for the souvenir cup that you can refill with soda. It fit PERFECTLY in the side pocket and when I was out questing, I had an additional trusty water bottle in the other side pocket.
Super roomy and fit all my airplane necessities! By far the best bag for travel!

Now THIS is my purse! It's awesome! It's not huge but I can still throw in my sweater for those chilly bus rides. The Amy Kathryn Marigold Diaper Bag! It's my perfect everyday bag! In the front pocket I keep my cell and metro card. On the inside there is a zippered pocket where I keep my keys. There are four outside pockets. I wish they could hole a water bottle :( but I have my MP3 player in one of them which gives me easy access if I want to change a song. I have my gum in another pocket with my chap stick. And the other 2 I use for other miscellaneous items. Great Purse!!!

Now this is probably my next purse. It IS a bit big for an everyday purse but look how pretty! The Amy Kathryn Poppy Diaper Bag! I was always into the leopard! If I do get it I'll definitely post about it!!! Hee Hee, psyched to be getting a new bag soon!

Ahhhhh the intro!

2008-08-26T15:39:00.000-07:00

So what do you put in an intro? Am I supposed to add personal pics? Is anyone gonna see this at all?

Anyone else understand my confusion... are a bunch of you smiling and nodding?

Well... I have a bet going with myself that I won't be able to keep up with this blog for more than a month... I'm being super generous!

If anyone reads this... post a comment so I know you're out there... motivate me so I can win this bet!

Thanks for allowing me to bore you for a moment :)

Just Stuff!

toribrit's review on the Be Fabulous!

A SUPER Yummy Salad!

Salmon Dinner!

Some Point Friendly Shopping

Last Night's Boyfriendly Support!

My Latest Work

The Family Goal

Feeling PRETTY Good

Our Biggest Loser Contest

The Timi and Leslie's 2010 collection!

Just Stuff!: Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet Potato Pie

The HUGE Holiday Contest!

My stash and more!

The Kalencom Pics!

My Latest Addiction!

The Diaper Clutch Giveaway!

Greatest Birthday!

Rocky Having Fun!

Rocky Being His Cute Self Again!

The Mother's Day Special!

Proud of my pup

Rocky CRACKED me up!

LOVE THIS VIDEO!!!!

Ju Ju Be Exclusive REVEALED!

UNBELIEVABLE!

Great Time To Order A Ju Ju Be!

More Videos!

Recent;y Started Reading Again

Rocky at the Beach

My Dream

Twilight... The Book

The Cutest Pup in the WORLD!

Recently Updated Specials!

Another LD&D Giveaway with JJB Spring '09 Pre-Orders!

Timi & Leslie Toulouse Diaper Bag!

Friends

So MUCH To Do!

A great 50% off addition

What's your idea of an awesome vacation?

BabyLegs at 50% OFF?!?!

The Amy Kathryn Poppy Leopard

Engaged

The non horror film that horrified me to the bone!

Stress anyone?

My Reese Li Black Bead

The Shithole!

More weight lost more weight loss to go

Show me the MONEY!

It's a Shithole but it's our Shithole

Fall In Love With Me When I'm In Sweats!

Weight Watchers

It Begins and Hopefully Will Continue!

I Got It!

Finally The 50% Off Section Is Launched!

Message In A Blog

I MISS HIM!!!!

The Fleurville Wristlet

The ultimate gift wrap!

The Dream Ring!

Web MD Rocks!

The Gift Wraps!

Love My Amy Kathryn!

Ahhhhh the intro!