October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! This is a very sensitive subject to me and millions of people out there. We all know some who has or had breast cancer and it is so important to educate yourself.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure is an amazing organization to donate to or to get educated to understanding Breast Cancer, prevention, and how you can help others or cope.  

Remember ladies get your yearly mammograms and now mammograms are not just recommended for women over 40. If you have a strong family history be sure to notify your doctor so you can get checked prior to being 40. Trust me, they are not the worst test to go through and it is better to be safe. Early prevention is the best way to curing yourself from this horrible disease.

Did you know... according to the American Cancer Society about 230,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer in women was estimated in 2011. Help donate to this cause today.

Finding Happiness Quote

"Our ultimate goal in life should be to find happiness, create happiness, spread happiness in order to truly end up being happy! We should not cheat ourselves thinking anything else would satisfy us because reality is it won't!"

You Create Your Life Path Quote

“Life is 10 percent what you make it and 90 percent how you take it.” Irving Berlin

This quote is so true. We always read between the lines, try to plan ahead and never fully live in the moment. We do things, regret things, wish things would change and be different but we need to take life for what it really is and see how much happier you will really be!

Laugh More Quote

"The human race has only one really effective weapon and that is laughter.” Mark Twain

Feel Good Song: Cold Play Yellow

Tonight's a Cold Play kind of night! Sharing this with you because I am in that kind of mellow mood.

Accept Change Quote

“The first step toward change is awareness. The second step is acceptance.” Nathaniel Branden

Go Go Go...Lack of Sleep & Complications

Ready set go....that's my life. I am always on the Go! My sisters laugh and say I always am out and about and never sit still. Between work, home, my social life and my little one there is always something to do. Don't get me wrong I am grateful to have the life I have but there have been times when I thought of taking a long vacation alone to catch up on sleep.

Today alone I went to a Focus group that got canceled. I visited a friend in the area since I had time to kill before picking up my lil one from school. I picked up lunch, got my daughter, stopped at my husband's job, went to the grocery store, went for ice cream and now cleaning up before having to cook dinner and attend my Turbo kick class or how I like to call it "Turbo Kick My Butt" class. Then I have to come home and work and hopefully be in bed before mid-night. Sleep is never a top priority which is so bad, I know but I have to skip out on some activity of life.

I live by the motto "Carpe diem" which is seize the day." I don't let a minute go by without trying to accomplish something. In reality I am just burning myself out. I woke up one day with puffy eyes and knew it was due to the lack of sleep. It was a reality check to me that I really can not skip out on sleep anymore.

Here are some important facts as to what the lack of sleep can do to you:

• Increases blood Pressure: A study out of the University of Chicago found that for every one hour you cut your sleep, your risk for high blood pressure increases by 37 percent! Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/08/15/is-lack-sleep-making-fat/#ixzz1Z5Lso7ku
• Increases risk to Type 2 Diabetes: An article by the American Diabetes Association in Diabetes Care links lack of sleep to higher blood sugar levels and thus possible type 2 diabetes risk. Read more: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/234793.php
• Chance of Memory Loss: Memory loss and having trouble concentrating are commonly linked to loss of sleep. You will probably not be able to remember what happened yesterday or if you are experiencing severe lack of sleep, what happened earlier that day. Read More: http://theonlinesleepclinic.com/lack-of-sleep-side-effects/

Here are some important facts as to why we all should sleep more:

• Helps Repair Muscle Tissue: Muscle tissue is rebuilt and restored. Read More: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3076707/ns/technology_and_science-science/t/why-do-we-need-so-much-sleep/
• Rebuild Fuel for our Body:  Sleep helps replenish fuel, which is burned while awake Read More: http://www.physorg.com/news/2011-02-why-do-we-sleep.html
• Helps you Focus: Every hour you stay awake you decrease your ability to focus and perform throughout the coming days. Read More: http://www.dumblittleman.com/2009/07/11-reasons-why-you-need-more-sleep.html

Guess it is time for me to take a nap to catch up on my zzz's

Take Chances Quote

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." Wayne Gretzky

Be Happy Now Quote

"How simple it is to see that we can only be happy now, and there will never be a time when it is not now." Gerald Jampolsky

Feel Good Song: Bob Marley and Stereo Love Mix

This is a great mix!! Two great songs! Happy Saturday All!

Enjoy the Little Things Quote

"Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things. " Robert Brault

Create Your True Happiness Quote

"Being happy comes in different forms, don't judge your happiness on one thing. Focus on all the little things and once you combine them that's when you'll create your true happiness!"

Feel Good Song: Cold Play Fix You

This is one of my favorite bands and songs!

5 ingredient Apple Crisp...Quick and Easy and Yummy Too!

This 5 ingredient Apple Crisp is my all time favorite and I love how my house smells when I bake it!

1. 1 Box of Yellow Cake Mix
2. 1 tablespoon of cinnamon
3. 1 teaspoon of sugar
4. 1 stick of melted butter
5. 4 small apples chopped

 

Chop apples bite size. Line bottom of baking dish with apples. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar. Mix cake mix, sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Top with melted butter and mix well. Cover apples with mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.

 

Feel Good Song: Skycraper by Demi Lovato

This song is pretty deep.

Staying in Shape

I love working out and I must admit I went three years without stepping in a gym. This past six months I really started getting into it again to get into shape and destress. Tonight I went to a "Turbo Kick" class which I would now like to refer to it as "Turbo Kick Your Butt" class. I stayed for 30 mins and could not believe how out of shape I felt.

The reality is that I am not really out of shape, I am in the same shape I was 7 years ago and when I was getting married- that was my early twenties... but with that said I want to emphasize how important it is to stay in shape.

Mix up your routine, don't go to the gym and do the same activities. Push yourself. I also took up running and LOVE IT. It puts a tole on your body but man does it feel awesome. I took on Zumba which is sooo much fun and am now mixing it up with different classes. I am not a skinny minnie, I have to work hard to stay in shape, I always have. I do not have the luxury to eat what I want and not gain weight. I always had a small weight problem but I found a program and a lifestyle that works for me and once you yourself finds that program that works for you too you still need to work on at it.

Don't give up, staying in shape is so rewarding to the mind, body and soul. We only get this one body, in this one lifetime...so be good to it, be true to it and stay in shape.

Let Go Quote

"People can only do so much until they come to a point when they realize there isn't more they can do and they need to learn to just let it go. "

Essex Steam Train

Our family took a trip to Essex, CT this past weekend and we went on their Steam Train. It was really cute for all the kids and even relaxing for the adults. This is a great place to definitely check out if you live in Connecticut or visiting. They even have a dinner train perfect for couples, a fright train to spook you for Halloween , a Santa special and the North Pole Express in December to get you in the holiday spirit. If you have the time take their Riverboat to Gillette Castle and have a picnic.

Check it out: http://www.essexstreamtrain.com

Essex Steam Train 2011

Laughter Quote

"Laughter is what helps me get through the crazy days of my life!"

Be Happy Quote

"Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." Abraham Lincoln

Life's Lesson Quote

"The things that should make us weak only end up making us stronger!"

Everyone Has Good In Them Quote

"Everyone has good in them, sometimes you just have to search a little deeper to see it."

Think Less Feel More Quote

"Life is about thinking less and feeling more!"

Running-Good for the Mind, Body and Soul

From my previous posts you'll notice I've been into being healthier this past year. I was diagnosed with being pre-diabetic and when I found out I totally took my health into my own hands and decided to do a life change. I started eating right and working out. My progress has been amazing and 6 months ago when I would run I was ok but never felt this good.

My husband is a runner. He has done races and has been actively pushing me to join him for the past two years. Since I started focusing more on my health I decided I would pick up running to add to my routine. Now I am not normally a runner. I am more of a Zumba, weight training type of person. But I decided to give it a shot and although I am still new to it I am LOVING it!

Running, jogging, walking any type of movement outside is sooo rewarding to the mind, body and soul. I am in the learning process but I must say it feels amazing! It is as if I could just keep going. It is like a "runners high" Yes, my goal is to join my husband in his next 5k. It is only 3 miles but I have set a goal. So hopefully by the Spring I will be ready to go.

Here are some awesome Running Facts:

• Aging: Running is helpful is postponing the effects of aging on human body. Running is proficient in reducing the pace of aging, which keeps a person young physically and then, mentally. It is also applicable in nourishing the skin and pampering its glow. *
• Muscle and Bone Loss:  Running is considered as one of the most significant exercises to maintain the uniformity of these body parts and is helpful in keeping the body in good shape.*
• Stroke:  Running maintains the good profile of blood vessels, carrying blood from and to the brain and thus, fights against stroke.*
• Diabetes: Running is capable of maintaining a balanced amount of carbohydrates and sugar in blood. It burns the surplus amount of sugar present in blood, keeping the blood clean to lead a healthy life.*
• Cholesterol Level: Running is a good exercise in controlling the level of cholesterol in human body. *
• Stress and Mood Improvement: Running is not only a physical exercise, but it also plays an important role in building good mental conditions.*

* http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/other/health-benefits-of-running.html

Smile More Quote

"Of all the things you wear, your expression is the most important." Janet Lane

Feel Good Song: Lady Gaga You and I

Be Unbreakable Quote

"People will try to break you down and will only succeed when you let them!"

Feel Good Song: Adele Someone Like You

Happy Birthday Spice

My doggy turned 10 today. Yes she was born on 9/11/01 and ironically she is terrified of fireworks, gun fire and any loud noises. She is our 9/11 angel. So Happy Birthday Spice. You are an amazing dog and still have the energy of a puppy.



Remembering Those from 9/11

9/11 is a day we'll all remember for the rest of our lives. It is a sad day where many people lost their lives over careless hatred. Family and friends and all Americans felt the pain that day and every year when this day approaches.

I remember being in college and watching the news before class. I called my parents, and boyfriend in shock of what was happening before my eyes. I immedialty called my sister who lives in the City and once I heard she was ok I was relieved but as the morning continued my heart dropped as each event occurred.  It was a moment in history where people around the world all felt the same way; scared, confused, nervous and sadness.

We all have a story to tell about that day. A story that will be passed on from generation to generation. A story where heroes where created and passed. It is a sad day for all of us and we all need to take a moment to pray for those all affected by this tragic day. We also need to learn hatred just causes pain. War is wrong and revenge never causes justice.

My thoughts are with you all who lost a loved one during this tragic event. And know that this is a day where Americans united as one and showed our true colors to help one another.

We Will Never Forget

9.11.01

Looking for a New Job? Check out Indeed.com

I HIGHLY recommend this site to everyone who is looking for a new job Indeed.com
I know a number of people who found their current positions here. It is the "one stop" location for all job postings. It pulls all jobs on the Internet into one location. Great tool!

Check it out today and Happy Hunting!

Be True to Yourself and What You Want Quote

"Unhappiness is not knowing what we want and killing ourselves to get it." Don Herold

Be Happy Quote

"Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." Abraham Lincoln

Cheers to the Weekend

I always loved Thursdays! It's the last day before the weekend begins and everyone seems to be a little more relaxed and happy. Although my weekends are always crazy busy, I love turning my "work mode" off and enjoying myself with lil one, family and friends.

Cheers to tomorrow being Friday. Have a safe and wonderful weekend all!

Women Quote- Don't Try to Figure Us Out

"Women want what they want and that's that!"

Heavenly Dark Chocolate Icing

This icing is amazing! I baked over the weekend and did not have icing so I looked up some recipes and found this and it was a HIT! I even had people say they wanted to melt it and pour it over ice cream. It is really really good and easy to make.

Hershey Dark Chocolate Icing:

• 2/3 cup of Hershey's Special Dark Cocoa
• 1 stick melted butter
• 2 tlb of powered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 2 tsp sugar
• 2 tsp milk (Fat Free is Best-not need for extra calories)

Melt butter. Whisk cocoa in with the butter. Add powdered sugar, and milk. Mix well. Add sugar. *Please note icing will be loose at first and then thicken up. Add more milk if needed. AMAZING!

Think Like a Man Quote

"Every Woman should look like a Girl, act like a Lady and think like a Man!"

Life Quote

"Life is what you make of it!"

We Survived Irene

If someone told you to prepare for a Hurricane what would you do? I think I was pretty prepared and although we did not get hit that hard by this storm I did lose power for 3 full days and was pretty stressed all weekend.

We hardly got any water in the house and my fridge was due for a good cleaning but I did gain 2 lbs from dealing with the stress and boredom of no power. It is funny to think that our ancestors spent their whole life without power and three days drove me a little insane. I must admit it was nice hanging by candle light and work was on hold for a little while. I also noticed I went to be earlier, did not use any Social Media sites and felt pretty relaxed in the dark.

My thoughts and prayers go out to those who felt the affects from this storm and are still recovering from the damages it caused.

Hurricane Irene is on her way

Hurricane Irene is on her way and I hope everyone who comes across her path will be safe this weekend. Remember to keep an emergency supply of water, food, batteries, a hand held radio, a non cordless phone in your house, and cash...in case ATM machines are not working. Make sure you have gas in your car and stay calm. There is no need for people to freak out!

Connecticut is not used to having Hurricanes so when I speak with clients from Florida they laugh at how "unprepared" we are since they are used to boarding up the house and evacuating.

So whatever you choose to do this weekend just be careful and be safe.

'Nightmare' scenario: Hurricane menaces East Coast

Life is About Finding a Balance

I can not begin to say how much we all need to have a balance in our life. It took me a long time to create a balance and I still feel I always overdo one thing over another.

There needs to be a balance in our life. We tend to focus our energy on one big aspect of our life that causes us to neglect the other things we need to be focusing on. I went from working too much, to working too little, to spending too much, to partying too much, to working out too much, to taking too much time off and spending time with my daughter. My life was very unbalanced. I see this among my family and friends as well. We either pick one thing and put all our energy into it that we burn ourselves out when it comes to different tasks we need to be focusing on.

I say work probably takes up most of our life. We work to spend, and spend too much that makes us find the need to work some more. Without balance we get stressed. With stress we eat too much, drink too much and neglect a healthy lifestyle.

My goal is to balance my life as much as possible that I do not feel I am too burnt out to focus on the other things in my life. A hard part for me is I work from home so I feel like I am never not working. When I was not working I was doing things around the house, or spending time with my daughter and I felt like I never had any down time.

One goal I set that seemed to help me was once 5:00 hit I would turn off my blackberry, make dinner, hang with my daughter until she went to bed and then turned my phone back on. I no longer work most weekends and I set a schedule to have one day off a week to spend all day doing mommy and baby activities.

Life is too short to feel like we need to "do it all." We need to face reality that if we do not find a balance and we try to do it all we will get burnt out, be unhappy and watch our lives pass us by! Try to find a balance in your life. Try to realize that no matter what tomorrow will await more things to do. Live in the moment and try to set realistic goals.

Peace With Yourself Quote

“Until you make peace with who you are, you'll never be content with what you have.” Doris Mortman

Friends Quote

"Who needs to go to confession when you have great friends to vent to."

Toxin Free Solution to Cleaning: Vinegar & Water Solution

I stared using a solution of Vinegar and water to clean my tile floors and the results are amazing. I always used a steam mop to prevent toxins in my house since I have a child and animals. I love how my tiles look after and this is a great "toxin free" and "going green" solution for when you clean.

I also came across this awesome site that lists a ton of other ways you could use this solution when you clean. http://www.thenewhomemaker.com/vinegar#.TlAUdfeuw3A.twitter

Happy Cleaning!!

Fast, Easy & Yummy Garlic Bread

My house still smells like Garlic Bread after making this yummy, easy bread. This is an awesome smell for guests or even your hubby to walk into.

What you'll need:

• Garlic Powder
• Olivio Butter
• Italian or 9 Grain Bread
• Sliced Provolone Cheese

Spread each slice of bread with butter, add garlic powder. Bake or toast until crunchy. Add a slice of provolone and bake until cheese is melted. DELICIOUS!!!

Fiber One 80 Calories Cereal Giveaway

Skipping breakfast has never been an option for me! Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and when you are into weight loss like me it is important to pick a cereal that will help aid in your weight loss.

Fiber One just gave eating cereal a whole new meaning. Fiber One 80 Calories cereal is only 80 calories per serving plus it contains 40 percent of the Daily Value of fiber. Which means you stay fuller longer! Not only is it healthy but they taste delicious too!

Wanna try some…well tell me: What is your favorite weight loss tip? and you too could win a prize pack filled with a box of Fiber One 80 Calories Cereal, a sensor pedometer with USB connector to chart walking progress, and a neoprene iPod/smartphone holder with armstrap all provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark!

Visit http://www.fiberone.com/  for great information on healthy living and coupons for new products



*All products, prize pack, information, and giveaway have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark

Art of Living Quote

"All the art of living lies in a fine mingling of letting go and holding on. " Henry Ellis

Learn from Your Mistakes Quote

"Mistakes are a fact of life. It is the response to the error that counts.” Nikki Giovanni

Whole Wheat-Chocolate Chip Cookies

I found this recipe on the package of Gold Medal Wheat Flour and must admit they are really good. My husband-who is not health conscious like me- ate three in one sitting. Enjoy!

• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup butter or margarine- I used Olivio butter
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 egg
• 2 cups Gold Medal Whole Wheat Flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 bag semisweet chocolate chips

Heat oven 375. Mix sugar, egg, vanilla and butter in bowl. Stir in flour, salt and baking soda. Dough will be a little stiff and stir in chocolate chips.

Drop spoonfuls of dough on ungreased cookie sheet and bake 8-10 minutes. Recipe makes 3 dozen.Yum!!

You Can't Avoid Fate Quote

"You often meet your fate on the road you take to avoid it" French Proverb

Feel Good Song: Alanis Morissette - Ironic

Fate Quote

"Accept the things to which fate binds you, and love the people with whom fate brings you together, but do so with all your heart." Marcus Aurelius

Sono Arts Festival 2011 in South Norwalk CT

I love the Sono Arts Fest! I love walking around and seeing all the artists, and listening to the bands. Last year I missed it since we spent the month of August in the Hampton's so I am excited we'll be around for it this year.

This year is especially special since my daughter is old enough to enjoy the Puppet Parade they have on Sunday at 1:30 pm. Come out and support the local artists and exhibitors this weekend. Aug 5th-Aug 7th.

View Full Schedule Here: Sono Arts Festival in CT 

Love Quote

"Immature love says, I love you because I need you. Mature love says, I need you because I love you."Erich Fromm

Feel Good Song:The Band Perry

Lasting Love Quote

"Love does not consist in gazing at each other, but in looking outward together in the same direction." Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Happiness Quote

"Being happy is something you have to learn. I often surprise myself by saying "Wow, this is it. I guess I'm happy. I got a home I love. A career that I love. I'm even feeling more and more at peace with myself." If there's something else to happiness, let me know. I'm ambitious for that, too. " Harrison Ford

Happy Weekend!!

Enjoy your weekend everyone! It has been a hot couple of days...temp has reached above 100 so hopefully this weekend we will get to spend a lot of time by the pool! Stay cool and remember "The World is your Oyster"...enjoy it!

TGIF!

Live Life the Best You Can

"Life is a huge mystery, we really should not spend too much time trying to figure it out!"

Feel Good Song: Shakira This Time for Africa

Make it Happen Quote

“Fate only takes you so far, then it's up to you to make it happen.” Unknown

New Seventh Generations Diapers Giveaway

I received a sample of the new Seventh Generations Diapers and must say they are pretty durable.

Seventh Generation has also reduced the size of the diapers´ plastic packaging, meaning that each pack now contributes even less overall landfill waste than before. In fact, Seventh Generation Free & Clear diaper packaging can now be recycled at local supermarkets where plastic bag recycling collection boxes are available.

GIVEAWAY:
Tell me why you think your family would benefit from these new diapers and you too could win a prize pack.

COUPON:
Also to receive $2.00 OFF any ONE Seventh Generation Baby Product (Diapers, Training

Pants, or Wipes) please visit http://bit.ly/seventhgendcoupon .

*Coupon link, product, prize pack, information, and giveaway have all been provided by Seventh Generation through MyBlogSpark.

Feel Good Song: Lady Gaga The Edge of Glory

Destiny Quote

“Watch your thoughts, for they become words. Watch your words, for they become actions.
Watch your actions, for they become habits. Watch your habits, for they become character. Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.” Similar Quotes

"Reality is we shape our destiny whether we want to believe it or not! We need to own up to what we really want out of life and follow it, right or wrong in the end it is our destiny"

Feel Good Song: Rob Thomas

The Purpose of Life Quote

"The purpose of our life is to feel happiness, joy, satisfaction, and peace. In order to achieve that, so much depends on our mental attitude rather than money, power or external things." Dalai Lama

Enjoy Life Quote

"Life is a beach we're just playing in the sand!"

Feel Good Song: Marc Anthony I Need You

"Grazie per amarmi per me, ti amo!"7/10/04

Don't Live in Regret Quote

"Overall I can proudly say I don't really regret anything I've done, because at the time it felt like the right things to do!" 

Harmony and Happiness Quote

“Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” Mahatma Gandhi

Feel Good Song: How to Love

Stay True Quote

"Have faith, be kind, love all and stay true. Life is a journey all in it's own, enjoy the ride and don't look back, stay focused, look ahead and be grateful for everyday!"

Feel Good Song: Cold Play Every Tear Drop is a Waterfall

Casey Anthony Acquitted in Her Daughter's Death

This story was so sad from the beginning to the end. I can not believe she was found not guilty.

Read more here...

Feel Good Song: Good Charlotte - Dancefloor Anthem/I don't wanna be in love

Relationship Breakups on the Rise

In the past 6 months I had two friends break up with there long term significant others, two weddings have been called off and one couple file for a divorce. It is crazy how many relationships have come to an end. It feels like every time I speak with someone you hear about another end to a long term relationship. Out of all of my friends only one is married. Everyone is now single, divorced or not in a long term relationship.

Growing up I felt like everyone was either married or divorced. There was no in between, there was no dating around and living with someone. Now as an adult it is so common to be single in your mid-thirties, and enjoy it. So many guys have no intention on marrying or giving up their bachelor lifestyle and the same for some women. Everyone is very into their careers and goals and it is a wonderful thing if it works for them

More single parents are raising kids and not staying in a loveless or unhappy marriage just to keep their children happy. People are focusing more within to better themselves and do what makes them happy despite what others may say.

I guess life really is about whatever works best for you! I got engaged young and dated a lot in high school so I never had that alone time, but with my personality I don't think I could ever be completely alone. A lot of my friends enjoy being alone and rather had their freedom. I think everyone really needs to be true to themselves but make sure they don't hurt too many people along the way. And at the end of the day what may work for one person may not work for another. We need to discover our true path and realize to have one thing means we are sacrificing the luxury of having something else! After all, we can't have it all!

“You CAN have it all. You just can't have it all at once.” Oprah Winfrey

Happy 4th of July!

"Liberty is the right to choose. Freedom is the result of the right choice.” Similar Quotes

Peace Quote

" Inorder to be at peace with others you first need to be at peace with yourself!"

Happy 4th of July Weekend!!!

Whether you are having a bbq at your house or attending a friends picnic, I hope you enjoy your weekend and take this time to relax, eat and enjoy some sunshine!

Enjoy some Fun 4th of July Facts:

• Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain.**
• Independence Day was first celebrated in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776.***
• The value of fireworks imported from China, representing the bulk of all U.S. fireworks imports  was $197.3 million  in 2010. U.S. exports of fireworks, came to just $37 million in 2010, with Japan purchasing more than any other country ($6.3 million)* That's a whole lot of fireworks!!
• Both Thomas Jefferson and John Adams died on Independence Day, July 4, 1826.***
• In 1941, Congress declared 4th of July a federal legal holiday. It is one of the few federal holidays that have not been moved to the nearest Friday or Monday.***

Happy 4th of July!!

Sources:
* http://www.chiff.com/a/fun-facts-fourth.htm
** http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_(United_States)
*** http://www.purpletrail.com/partytrail/featured_fourth_of_july/4th_of_july_history_trivia_and_facts

Master Your Life Quote

"When the voice and vision on the inside become more profound and clear than the opinions on the outside, then you have mastered your life." The Secret

Fun Summer Facts #10 Burgers

Did You Know...

• The first hamburgers in U.S. history were served in New Haven, Connecticut, at Louis' Lunch sandwich shop in 1895.Source: http://www.foodreference.com/html/fhamburgers.html
• Biggest Burger ever cooked was at Denny's Beer Barrel Pub was a 123-pounder that blew away the old world record of 78.5 pounds. This took nine hours to cook. Source: http://www.roadsideamerica.com/story/15236
• First Cheeseburger was invented n 1924, when Lionel Sternberger put a slice of cheese on top of a burger served at the Rite Spot Restaurant in Pasadena, CA, and called it rather officially a 'cheese hamburger.'Source: http://www.inmamaskitchen.com/FOOD_IS_ART_II/food_history_and_facts/Hamburger.html

Love Me For Me Quote

"If your going to love me for when I am at my best then you'll have to also accept me for when I am at my worst."

Connecticut Fireworks Schedule 2011

Hi Everyone,

I LOVE fireworks. Below is a link to all the Fireworks in Connecticut for this upcoming weekend.

http://www.wtnh.com/dpp/news/connecticut/2011-connecticut-fireworks

Enjoy :)

Fun Summer Facts #9 Fireworks

Did you know...

• It is believed that fireworks originated in China and were used to scare spirits away, although some experts actually think that fireworks may have been invented in India or in the Middle East.
• Early fireworks were exploded for the sound until chemicals were added for color, starting in Italy in the 1830's.

Source: http://www.life123.com/holidays/july-fourth/fireworks/fireworks-facts.shtml

Love Quote

"Do I love you because you're beautiful, Or are you beautiful because I love you?" Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, Cinderella

Fun Summer Facts #8 BBQ Food

Did You Know...

• Top Four Foods Grilled on Memorial Day in order... 1st hamburgers, 2nd steak, 3rd chicken and  4th hot dogs Source: http://www.grillmaestro.com/fun-memorial-day-bbq-facts.htm
• Did you know Labor Day is the third most popular day for grilling? July 4th and Memorial Day are the top two. Source: http://www.largemart.com/misc/labor-day.htm
• BBQ in no longer a male dominated activity. 51% of males BBQ while 49% of women BBQ too. Source: http://www.hotsauceblog.com/hotsaucearchives/fun-bbq-facts/  BTW-this is one task I refuse to do :)

Love vs Hate Quote

"Hate leaves ugly scars, love leaves beautiful ones." Mignon McLaughlin, The Second Neurotic's Notebook, 1966

Fun Summer Fact #7 Sand

Did You Know...

• Wet sand weighs less than dry sand.

Source: http://www.bitoffun.com/fun_facts.htm

Your Life Quote

‎"Be happy for this moment. This moment is your life." Omar Khayyam

Fun Summer Fact #6 Toads

Did You Know...

• One toad can eat 10,000 insects in one summer.

Source: http://community.scholastic.com/scholastic/board/message?board.id=summerreadingbuzz&message.id=247106

Fun Summer Fact #5 Jelly Fish

Did You Know...

• Jellyfish are 95% water

Source: http://community.scholastic.com/scholastic/board/message?board.id=summerreadingbuzz&message.id=247106

Fun Summer Fact #4 Suntan Lotion

Did You Know...

• It was not until the late 1970's that there was the recommendation to protect skin from the sun, using a suntan lotion with a higher SPF count. Until then most tanning lotions contained mostly oil, which would cause burning and more skin damage than using nothing at all might.

Source: http://www.ehow.com/facts_5079571_suntan-lotion.html

Fun Summer Fact #3 Bikini Invented

Did you know...

• The modern bikini was invented by French engineer Louis Réard in 1946

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bikini

Happy Friday!

What a week..Started off pretty crappy, weather's been crappy most of the week but it's Friday so I am in good spirits. I picked up one of my favorite bottles of wine, Red Velvet by Cupcake and am looking forward to sharing the night with a dear girlfriend of mine in her new neighborhood, Black Rock, which I haven't hung out in for years...prob since my college years.

The key to my summer rental came in and I can't wait to turn my blackberry off and enjoy the beach. Just a couple more weeks and I am on my way! Good things are always around the corner, it's getting past those bumpy roads that can make life tricky!

So with that all said have a Happy and Safe Friday & Weekend! Remember Keep Smiling!

Summer Fun 2011

Feel Good Song: Beautiful People

Women vs Men

I was having a discussion with my husband about articles and women when he told me today a man said to a woman in discussion how "women are crazy but men are stupid."

I could not help but agree. Now I don't think women are all really crazy and that all men are stupid but the fact is we are completely opposites. Women are extremely emotional and men really are clueless sometimes. Wouldn't it be great if both sexes could have a balance!

I can recall several incidents
where I overreacted and husband didn't think twice about it. Women over analyze, we stress to much and allow ourselves to get too emotionally involved in situations that are unnecessary. Men tend to under emotionalize situations.Most men make a decision and then never look back.

In a perfect world there would be balance! Think about how much conflict and divorces would be avoided if we all just understood another better. I think this whole discussion shed some new light on my life. I have to be less emotional, less indecisive and not think things through so much. I am a reactor and it has often done harm instead of good. So going forward I am going to practice what I preach and hopefully live more carefree not careless but carefree.

Feel Good Song: Police I don't wanna lose your love tonight

It's raining here in CT and gloomy and thought this would get everyone in better spirits. One more day and it's Friday!!!

This is sure to get you all up and dance a lil ;)

Fun Summer Fact #2 Ice Cream

I scream you scream we all scream for...

Did You Know...

• The average American eats around 5 1/2 gallons of ice cream a year, more than any other nationality. The late President Reagan declared July National Ice Cream month. It is also the month the most ice cream is sold.

Source: http://womens-place.com/features/summerfacts.php

Woman Happiness Quote

"How can a woman be expected to be happy with a man who insists on treating her as if she were a perfectly normal human being." Oscar Wilde

Fun Summer Fact #1 Watermelon

Did you know:

• Watermelon is actually a VEGETABLE! It is from the botanical family Cucurbitaceae and is most closely related to cucumbers, pumpkins and squash. The watermelon is composed of 92% water and early explorers often used hollowed out watermelons as canteens.

Source: http://womens-place.com/features/summerfacts.php

Life Quote

"The man who views the world at fifty the same as he did at twenty has wasted thirty years of his life." Muhammad Ali

The Circus is Here in Connecticut!

The Big Apple Circus is in Connecticut and you can save $15 now on tickets. They'll only be here until July 4th so hurry and order your tickets today!

To purchase your discounted tickets to the Big Apple Circus*:
· Online: http://bigapplecircus.org/pop11ct.aspx  and submit the code POP11 in the Promotional Codes box in the lower left of the page.
· By Phone: CALL 888-541-3750 and mention code POP11
· In Person: Bring a print-out of this offer to the Big Top Box Office (no service fees)

  *Offer good on select seat locations and performances. Must present this email to receive discount at the box office. Performance schedule subject to change. Offer is subject to availability; not valid on prior purchases; cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions. This offer can be revoked at any time. Discount amount varies. Limit 8 tickets per order. No refunds or exchanges. Telephone and Internet orders are subject to standard service fees.

Actions Speak Louder than Words Quote

     “Thinking is easy, acting is difficult, and to put one's thoughts into action is the most difficult thing in the world.” Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Feel Good Song: Katy Perry Last Friday Night

I know it's only Monday but after the crappy day I had to post a feel good song to help me get through this week! Enjoy!

Enjoy Your Weekend

Happy Friday Everyone!
I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and spend it with those you love. Also I want to send love out to all the Father's out there. I have a wonderful one and am grateful that my daughter does too.

Take this time to appreciate those around you and remember that life is about surrounding yourself with those you love and care about. We spend most of our lives wondering what if, holding on to anger and not realizing that everyday is a gift so enjoy everyday! Whether you have a good day or a bad day remember life is too short to be unhappy! Cherish those god gave to you and never take anything or anyone for granted...something we all tend to do.

Happy Father's Day Weekend!

Friend Quote

"Don't think or judge, just listen." Sarah Dessen

Love Quote

“To the world you may be just one person, but to one person you may be the world.” Brandi Snyder

Happy Birthday to My Hubby

Wishing My Hubby a very Happy Birthday and many more wonderful Birthdays to come!



Man Worth Your Tears Quote

It's been a really tough weekend for some of my gals so I thought I would post this for them:

“No man is worth your tears, but once you find one that is, he won't make you cry.”Similar Quotes

Did you Know...Hiking vs Jogging on the Beach

I love the Woman's Day Magazine and in their July Issue they posted this fact I found interesting.

Did you know...

30 mins of hiking up hill will help you burn 375 calories vs 30 mins jogging on the beach you will burn 300 calories.

Hiking it is :)

Don't Love For Material Things Quote

“You don't love someone for their looks, or their clothes, or for their fancy car, but because they sing a song only you can hear.” Similar Quotes

Feel Good Song: Beyoncé - Run The World

Great Song to Work Out to!

Snack Time: Cottage Cheese, Yogurt & Fruit Yum!

This is an awesome power snack filled with protein, calcium and yummy-ness!

• 2 tbs non fat Greek Yogurt
• 2 tbs low-fat Cottage Cheese
• Strawberries
• Grapes
• Blackberries
• Blueberries
• Raspberries

Chop fruit and top with yogurt and cottage cheese. Yum!

Love What's Infront of You Quote

“You've spent your whole life running and running, trying to catch up with something that has never been there for you. And all you've done is go farther and farther away from the precious love that's been waiting for you all the time.” Similar Quotes

Best Baby Sunscreen for 2011

The summer has just begin and I am already lathering my lil one in sunscreen. Below are the top rated baby sunscreens for 2011. Always remember to test if your child is ok to use the sunscreen by applying a small amount on their leg to make sure they do not have an allergic reaction before applying to their whole body.


*All of these scored very well on the 2011 Safe Sunscreen Guide.



•Aveeno Baby Natural Protection Mineral Block Face Stick, SPF 50

•Loving Naturals Sunscreen Stick, SPF 30+

•Badger Baby Sunscreen, SPF 30+

•Badger Sunscreen Face Stick, Unscented, SPF 30+

•California Baby No Fragrance Sunblock Stick, SPF 30+

•California Baby No Fragrance Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30+

•COOLA Baby Unscented Natural Mineral Sunblock, SPF 45

•Goddess Garden Baby All Natural Sunscreen, SPF 30+

•Kiss My Face 100% Natural White Sun Stick, SPF 30

•thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen, SPF 30+
 
*Source http://pregnancyandbaby.sheknows.com/blog/baby-safety/best-baby-safe-sunscreen-for-2011/

You Become What You Think Quote

"We are like magnets - like attract like. You become AND attract what you think" The Secret

"You will attract everything you require - money, people, connections.. PAY ATTENTION to what's being set in front of you" The Secret

Feel Good Song: Katy B - Katy On A Mission

Benefits of Lemon Water

I love water but of course it gets boring at times so I sometimes add a slice of lemon. Check out the wonderful benefits:

Lemon Water Fact:

• Drinking lemon water regularly will aid in the cleansing of the bowels, which helps eliminate constipation and diarrhea.*
• Lemon water helps clean the toxins out of your body. Your skin can't look healthy if your body is holding onto toxins! When you get rid of toxic waste in your system, your skin will show it first! Your skin will be the first thing you notice cause it looks rejuvenated and not sallow or full of acne. **
• Lemon can help relieve many digestion problems when mixed with hot water. These include nausea, heartburn,  and parasites.**
• Because of its high Vitamin C content, it is used to prevent and treat many infections, hasten wound healing, and diminish allergies. Lemon juice also relieves symptoms of asthma, tonsillitis, and sore throats. **

  Sources:
*http://www.livestrong.com/article/111175-benefits-lemon-water/
**http://www.lookgreat-loseweight-savemoney.com/lemon-water.html

Help Create Your Destiny Quote

"Sometimes in life you can not wait for things to just happen, you have to give it that little push to get things moving!"

Protein vs Carbs Tip

When I was getting married I did the low carb diet and lost a ton of weight. But as we all know once you incorporate carbs back in your diet you blow up again. So I started reading the Insulin Resistant Diet book and this was a great tip:

You must offset carbs with protein. So as I understood it if you eat 30 grams of Carbs make sure you eat it with at least 15 grams of protein to slow the process of carbs turning into sugar. I have been following this diet for 6 weeks with meds and exercised and lost over 12 lbs. Now this diet is not for everyone but it does make sense.

More tips to follow!

Feel Good Song: Who Says

I love this song...it's cute

Friends Quote

"Friends help keep us young at heart."

Funny Conversations of The Week

People seem to amaze me and I have noticed that this week has been filled with funny conversations so I thought I would share some with you. Please note these are all conversations I actually had with people.

*I was at a picnic and while everyone was swimming a 75 year old woman leaned in and asked me:
“I don’t like people with tattoos...not sure why I just never did. Oh wait do you have any tattoos??” lol Old People

*One of my girlfriends and I were speaking and I love that I am open with her and we argue about everything and anything. When I wasn't agreeing with her she responded:

“You only hear what you want to hear”

My Response“Wait What?!”

“SEE!”

*I was driving my daughter home and she has been a little too bossy lately so she's in the backseat bossing me around:

“No we need to go that way…that way…that way Mamma”

My response: “Baby girl I can’t drive that way I’ll drive into a tree if I do!” 

“Ohhh”

*One of my clients was having a rough day and left me a message. It cracked me up:

“I am swamped, and it's been a crazy week. I am having a heart attack over this…well not really I never have heart attacks but I am  really stressed out”

* I needed to cancel my session with my trainer who also happens to be my brother-in-law which I knew after doing this face-to-face I should have just texted him, haha

"I can't train Sat afternoon"

"Fine come Fri night"

"I can't do Fri night"

"Fine come Saturday at 9:00"

"I can't it will be too early."

" I am the trainer, I make the rules. Get up and get there by 9:00"

I swear my life could be a movie!

Happy Wednesday!!!

Happy Memorial Day!

I hope you all had a wonderful memorial day and reflected upon all of those who have fought for our country to help make it a safer and better place!

Happy Memorial Day!

Healthy Snack-Fruit and Yogurt Topped with Almonds

This is my favorite mid-morning of after dinner snack.

• 1 cup Plain Nonfat Chobani Yogurt
• 1 tablespoon of blueberries
• 2 tablespoons of chopped strawberries
• 1 tablespoon blackberries
• 10 or handful of unsalted roasted  almonds

Layer fruit, top with yogurt and almonds. YUM!

Joke of the Day: I Love You...Wine

A woman is sitting at home on the porch with her husband enjoying a glass of wine and she says,
"I Love You."


He asks, "Is that you or the wine talking?"

She replies, "it's me...talking to the wine!"

Laughter & Sleep Quote

"A good laugh and a long sleep are the best cures in the doctor's book." Irish Proverb

"Bridesmaids" Great Movie!!

Life Quote

“The final mystery is oneself." Oscar Wilde

Homemade Tarter Sauce-YUM!

Homemade Tarter Sauce:

• 2 tbsp Light Mayo
• 1 chopped onion
• 1 chopped pickle
• 1 tbsp pickle juice
• Seasoning Salt
• Salt & Pepper

Mix all together and refrigerate for 1 hour before serving. Amazing!

Destiny Quote

"A person often meets his destiny on the road he took to avoid it.” Jean de La Fontaine

Life Quote

      “Sometimes it's the smallest decisions that can change your life forever.” Keri Russell

Happy Mother's Day

I hope you all had a Wonderful Mother's Day! Being a mom is one of the toughest, exciting, stressful yet rewarding job I may ever have. I love my munchkin and am grateful to have her and hope one day she'll adore me as much as I adore my own mom!


I hope you all realize how much you truly are appreciated not just today but everyday!

Friends Quote

"We need old friends to help us grow old and new friends to help us stay young." Letty Cottin Pogrebin

Feel Good Song: Mike Posner - Please Don't Go

Stuffed Peppers-Healthy Recipe

I recently started the South Beach Diet for health purposes and created this easy, healthy recipe that was really yummy without the guilt, fat or carbs!

Stuffed Peppers:

• Green peppers
• Sauteed chopped peppers
• Sauteed onions
• Sauteed plum tomatoes
• Meat Sauce
• Ground Chicken
• Ground Beef
• 2 Eggs
• Salt and Pepper for flavor

Beat eggs in a bowl, add sauteed peppers, onions and plum tomatoes. Mix, add raw meat, salt and pepper. Cut green peppers in half and scope mixture into each pepper. Place in a glass baking dish. Top with sauce. Bake 375 for 45 mins...add more sauce at the end and bake additional 10 minutes.

This is full of veggies, proteins and little to no carbs. Enjoy and cheers to healthy eating!

Feel Good Song: Good Life by OneRepublic

Be Happy Quote!

"Those who can laugh without cause have either found the true meaning of happiness or have gone stark raving mad." Norm Papernick

Feel Good Song: Colbie Caillat - I Do

Sweet Song ;)

Mother's Day Ideas

Mother's Day is around the corner and if your Mother or Wife is as simple as me then she'll love these simple yet thoughtful gifts:

• Ceramic Mugs with Markers-great idea for Mommies with lil ones. Let them show their creative side!  2 for $3.00 Michaels Craft Store http://www.michaels.com/
• Mom Frames-great to add a picture of Mommy and her children so she could show it off on her desk at work 55% off at Kohl's http://www.kohls.com/
• Flowers to plant and Hanging Flowers on sale at Stew Leonard's http://www.stewleonards.com/

If you really want to do something special then make dinner or lunch for your Mother/Wife- beat the crowds and be sure to clean up after you make a mess! Mommies should not be doing any dishes or cleaning on Mother's Day!

• Lobsters and File Mignon only $5.99 lb at Stew Leonard's http://www.stewleonards.com/
• Decorate the dinner table with roses $14.99 at Stop and Shop http://www.stopandshop.com/
• For dessert make chocolate covered strawberries buy 1 get 1 package free Stop and Shop http://www.stopandshop.com

Grow Old With Me Quote

"Grow old with me!  The best is yet to be. " Robert Browning

Feel Good Song: Tonight Ne-yo & Pit Bull

Breaking News: Osama Bin Laden Has Been Killed

Breaking News: Osama Bin Laden Has Been Killed. I hope all the families out there that have been affected by the horrible acts this man has committed can now have a little peace and closure.

No one wishes death upon anyone but knowing he can no longer cause harm eases the minds and soothes the pain of thousands and even millions of people who have been affected by his actions. May we all be at peace and may his soul one day find peace!

“Peace is not the absence of conflict, but the ability to cope with it."Similar Quotes

Mother's Day Gift Ideas

•  Pendants and Sterling Silver Diamond Necklaces $59.99 at Jcpenny http://jcpenny.com
• Nook Color $249 at Staples http://staples.com/
• Flip $97.99 at Best Buy http://bestbuy.com  (I LOVE MY FLIP!)
• Cannon PowerShot Camera $89 at Target http://target.com/

Happy Shopping and Make Sure to Thank Your Mom Not Only on Mother's Day but Everyday!

Weekend Getaway

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. My husband and I had a wonderful getaway. We went to Newport, Rhode Island for the weekend, first time on vacation alone without the little one. It was great for us, although I must admit I missed my lil girl much more than I thought I would.

My husband and I shopped, ate, stopped by the Mansions, went to the cliff walk, ate some more, worked out at the gym, swam and even tried sleeping in a little. It was a great weekend and I must say we should have done this a long time ago.

Everyone gets so caught us in their many roles in life...mother, father, husband, wife, worker, boss, manager, brother, sister etc..that we get lost in why we chose one another to spend the rest of our lives together with. My husband is my best friend, he always has been, so it is easy to go away and have a blast.

I told him we need to do this at least once a year. It helps us reconnect and become better parents! So for all of you out there do the same. Go away alone once in a while, turn off your cell phones and just drive. Reconnect and relax!

Found this on our walk on the Cliff Walk Trail

The Power of Words Video

Very  inspiring

Believe in Your Deams Quote

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." Eleanor Roosevelt

Happiness Quote

"Happiness is an attitude.  We either make ourselves miserable, or happy and strong.  The amount of work is the same." Francesca Reigler

Change Quote

"If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, change the way you think about it. " Mary Engelbreit

Reading "Water For Elephants" By Sara Gruen

I love to read and before I had my daughter I read a lot. So now I promised myself to get back to it hoping it will inspire me to write some more and motivate me to get my novels that are complete published-only if there were more hours in a day I would be able to complete all my goals!

So I started reading "Water For Elephants" By Sara Gruen and love it! I know there is a movie coming out so it inspired me even more to start it.

Be Happy With What You Have Quote

"To be upset over what you don't have is to waste what you do have." Ken S. Keyes, Jr., Handbook to Higher Consciousness

GREAT BOOK "Many Lives, Many Masters" By Brian Weiss

I LOVE this book. I read it in 4 nights. It is based on a true story written by Brian Weiss, an experienced Psychiatrist. His patient comes to him and under hypnosis she can remember her past lives. I must say it was inspiring, motivating and really made me look at my life and life in general differently! I loved it so much that I bought my own copy and his other book "Same Soul, Many Bodies."



                                                                 

Happy Easter & Buona Pasqua

Happy Easter & Buona Pasqua. I hope your day was filled with love, good food and laughter with family and friends, and loved ones!
"Easter is the demonstration of God that life is essentially spiritual and timeless." Charles M. Crowe

Do Good Feel Good Quote

"When I do good, I feel good. When I do bad, I feel bad. That's my religion.” Abraham Lincoln

Feel Good Song: Angel by Akon

3 Simple Things To Do With Leftover Ham

Easter is approaching and most of us will be having ham. I recently had it for Palm Sunday and used the leftovers all week. Check out these 3 easy things to do with left over ham:

• Toss some chopped up ham in your salad
• Chop the left over ham and stuff it in your breaded chicken breast with cheese and roll it. Bake at 350 degrees
• Add it to your favorite Alfredo sauce recipe and pour over pasta

See how simple that was! Enjoy and Happy Easter!!

Door to Happiness Quote

"Happiness often sneaks in through a door you didn't know you left open." John Barrymore

Go for What You Want Quote

"Pearls lie not on the seashore. If thou desirest one thou must dive for it. " Chinese Proverb

Happy Palm Sunday!

I love Palm Sunday. As a kid every Palm Sunday we went to church, stopped by my mom's aunt's house and had lunch at my Grandparents.

A lot of my friends do not celebrate this occasion, but every year I look forward to it. Since my grandparents have passed we all go to my aunt's and I still make sure we go to church. It is those memories of my childhood I want to carry on to my children. I miss my grandparents the most on this day and visit the cemetery every year with a Palm Cross for them.

It is funny how the little things we did as a child still carry on with us as we grow into adults and have a family of our own.

Happy Palm Sunday Everyone!!

Women Get Better With Age Quote

"Women are like a fine bottle of wine, we only get better and wiser with age"

Surround Yourself With Good People

I've been so blessed in my life to have so many wonderful, different groups of friends. My husband and I have met so many different people through the course of our relationship and built so many different bonds with wonderful people that we never really realize how lucky we are until we are around them and walk away feeling good about ourselves.

I am a true believer that if you surround yourself with good people; truly good, kind hearted people then good things will happen. Some people will suck the life out of you, hurt you, but when you build that relationship around the good ones life seems so much more enjoyable.

We all have something to learn from one another. We all should learn to cherish one another and those friendships that help bring the best out in us. For the ones who seem to bring us down, or are self centered try to keep your distance. Focus on the ones who bring the best out in you and you'll walk away feeling good about yourself and you'll notice good things will start to happen in your life!

"Surround yourself with good people and good things will happen!" 

We are Where We Should Be Quote

“I seldom end up where I wanted to go, but almost always end up where I need to be”  Douglas Adams

Life is too Short to Be Unhappy

It's funny how many of my girlfriends and I are going through the same emotions in life. We are all at a point in our lives when we are scratching our heads and saying 'there's got to be more to life than this.' We blame our moods on the alignment of the stars or full moons, but the reality is we feel life is too short to be unhappy.

Now I have a wonderful life, I have a home, husband, child, job, friends, family...but yet I feel I am a juggling act. My girlfriends are over worked, working in an industry where they make good money but are paying the price emotionally and physically. We get together and wonder how we ended up like this.

The positive thing about our "venting sessions" is that we realize we are not alone, we realize the grass always seems greener on the other side and we realize that in reality we are exactly where we WANT to be. See we think if things would be different we would be happier, but reality is we chose to be where we are. We like the challenges in life, I need my life to be a juggling act, I get bored easily, and I need to keep moving. My girlfriends always wanted to move up the latter and don't want an everyday 9-5 job. They enjoy the challenge and their pay is supporting their life style.

We are constantly wrecking our brains on what we can do to be happy, but in reality we are happy, we are where we want to be. We mistake our goals for wanting more and think that because we want more we are unhappy...but it is not true. We are determined to get more, be more, do more, that's who we are. Life is too short to be unhappy...we need to live for today, for the moment and realize we do have issues, we will make mistakes but we will learn from them and move forward because that's who we are!

Go For It Quote

"Sometimes you gotta stop, let go of yesterday, focus on what's ahead and realize the world's your oyster, so go for it!”

Regret & Fear Quote

"Many of us crucify ourselves between two thieves - regret for the past and fear of the future.” Fulton Oursler

Feel Good Song: Hello

You Have Control Of Your Own Happiness Quote

"No one is in control of your happiness but you; therefore, you have the power to change anything about yourself or your life that you want to change." Barbara de Angelis

Feel Good Song: Brandi Carlile - The Story

Happy 1st of the Month!

Man vs Woman Falling In Love Quote

“A man falls in love through his eyes, a woman through her ears.”  Woodrow Wyatt

Feel Good Song: Adele - Rolling In The Deep

Joy Quote

  “Joy is not in things; it is in us.” Richard Wagner

Feel Good Song: Tinie Tempah - Written In The Stars ft. Eric Turner

Recognize & Appreciate Quote

“We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have."  Frederick Keonig

Escarole & Beans

Growing up my mom would always make these dishes when I would beg her to make American dishes. Now I love making these dishes because they remind me of childhood. Funny how this "Pleasant Peasant Dish" comforts the soul and tummy! I love this one pot dinner dish!

• 2 Heads Escarole
• 2 Cans Cannelloni Beans
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 Tablespoon chopped onions
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and Pepper for test

Wash the escarole really well. In a pot coat bottom with olive oil, add garlic, onions and red pepper. Saute, add escarole, I always add a little at a time, and put a top on. Once escarole is welted down-not too much you still want it to have a crunch to it, add cans of beans, salt and pepper. Simmer until creamy.

I like to serve this is a bowl over Italian bread. Yum!

Daughter Quote

"My daughter has changed my life; she has given me grey hair, wrinkles and a lifetime of love and joy in my heart!"

Feel Good Song: Lullaby (Goodnight, My Angel) - Billy Joel

"Always kiss your children goodnight - even if they're already asleep." H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

Bedtime Buddies

As a child I loved sleeping with my stuff animals, maybe a little too much. I would gather ALL the stuffed animals in the house and put them in bed with me. There were three children in my family so just try to image all the stuffed animals I stuffed in bed with me.

My mom would joke that she feared I would sweat myself to death and always yelled at me to not have them all in my bed, but I would insist. That is why I found it so funny that my daughter never had a favorite toy to sleep with. She never slept with a pacifier, favorite blanket or anything. I knew then she took after her father.

She is now over two years old in her big girl bed and the other night I was putting her to bed. She asked for her ducky, then her Barney doll and then for her beach ball- which is a pillow that looks like a beach ball. Finally, I thought, she was growing sentimental with her toys and wanted a bedtime buddy. Nope, before I knew it she put all three items under her feet as a foot rest and laid back. It was a pretty funny site I must admit!

I know she is still young and being attached to a item has it's pros and cons. Maybe one day she will find that favorite item she will find comfort in. If I could I would probably still sleep with a bedtime buddy- along with my husband of course :)

Being a Mom Quote

"Since being a Mom Facebook and Yahoo! are the only way I can keep up and stay in tune with current events...TV is off limits, unless Dora and Blues Clues can tell me what the weather is going to be."

A Clean House & Children Don't Mix Quote

"Cleaning your house while your kids are still growing is like shoveling the walk before it stops snowing." Phyllis Diller

Feel Good Song: Guns.N.Roses-Sweet Child O'Mine

Ha-I Didn't Sign Up for This!

When I decided to become a parent I never realized how much work it would be. I mean I LOVE LOVE being a mom, but would LOVE LOVE if I could have a cleaning lady, cook, personal assistant and even a dog walker to take care of my dogs. I feel like I am always doing something but never really get anything done!

My husband is very hands on, he does alot around the house, helps me with my daughter and really anything I need. But I still can not seem to get everything I need and want done within the 17 hours I am awake. My days starts by 7:00 am and at 11:30 at night I am looking through my blackberry calendar adding tasks that I have yet to complete to do the next day!

I look around my house and sometimes wish I had the magic finger like that show 'I Dream of Jeannie' to wash the dishes, dust, vacuum, clean the bathroom, fold the laundry, take the dogs out and everything else that we all have to worry about.

Some days I want to just sit back and play with my daughter, eat when I am hungry, not worry about the things in life that we all hate and have to worry about. I mean think about it... did we really sign ourselves up for all of this?! Because I don't remember signing anything that said "yep I could be a mom, wife, worker, cook, cleaning lady, dog walker" and at the same time be the energizer bunny, with a permanent smile on my face with a great figure, a spotless house, and a pressed clothes. Who am I kidding, my house is decent, my smile comes and goes, my figure needs some help and if my clothes aren't stained then it's been a good day!

Love Quote

"Meeting you was fate, becoming your friend was a choice, but falling in love with you I had no control over."

Feel Good Song: The Black Eyed Peas - Just Can't Get Enough

Finding the Right Person Who Brings Out the Best in You Quote

“Our chief want is someone who will inspire us to be what we know we could be."Ralph Waldo Emerson

Feel Good Song: Tom's Diner With Suzanne Vega

I can't believe this song is already 20 yrs old! Time flies!!

Follow Your Guide to Happiness Quote

“Those who danced were thought to be quite insane by those who could not hear the music.”Angela Monet

What are you Passionate About?

I am old enough to have had a number of different positions and careers. Working from home for different clients made me realize how much more successful I am when it involves doing tasks I am passionate about.

Prior to having my daughter I was a PR and Marketing Manager and loved what I did, I loved the product line the company manufactured, I loved my work, but was not a fan of the people I worked for. I was passionate in my work so who I worked for did not affect it too much.

Now I realize that the clients I work as their Marketing Consultant, which is what I love to do, I meet my deadlines, am proud of my work and enjoy every detail vs. the clients I may handle tasks that are not my favorite, even though I enjoy working for that client.

Whenever I am doing something I am passionate about my best works shines through, whenever I am doing something I am not passionate about I tend to slack off. I hate that about myself but know that this means I am confident in the line of business that shows my strengthens and rather not do the tasks that show my weaknesses.

In every job I had and I am sure will have there will always be things I love to do and things I do not love to do. I also know that I am a multi-tasker; I get bored easily if I had to do the same thing over and over again.

I also believe that although I love this job because I get to work from home, can be with my daughter a lot, meet so many wonderful people and learned to multi-task, while self teaching my self, that one day, when my children are grown and I am back in my career I will follow my passion...which may change by then but am determined to do what I am passionate about!

"Follow your passion, and success will follow you." Terri Guillemets

Relationship Quotes

"To have a successful relationship you can't just stick around for the good times, but also for the bad times and everything inbetween!"

Feel Good Song: Katy Perry - E.T. (Audio)

To be Happy Quote

“To be happy with a man you must understand him a lot and love him a little. To be happy with a woman you must love her a lot and not try to understand her at all."Helen Rowland

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

We're all Irish on St. Patty's Day!

"May your blessings outnumber

The shamrocks that grow,

And may trouble avoid you

Wherever you go."

~Irish Blessing

Chocolate= A Woman's Best Friend

I love chocolate and sometimes I crave it so badly. I try not to eat too much of it but when I do it is like heaven! I love milk chocolate, dark chocolate but white chocolate is my favorite. I am not a fan of nuts so the least fancy the chocolate the better for me.

Yesterday I woke up with a huge craving for chocolate. I ate a Nutella (Italian hazelnut chocolate spread) sandwich, I had chocolate milk and dark chocolate covered blueberries-I know I was not lying when I said I wanted chocolate. So I did what I always do...I looked up the benefits of chocolate.

Did You Know...

• Chocolate starts from a small tropical tree, the Theobroma cacao, usually called simply, "cacao." Read More...
• Cocoa and dark chocolate may keep high blood pressure down and reduce the blood's ability to clot, thus the risk of stroke and heart attacks may be reduced. Read More...
• Cocoa beans contain polyphenols (similar to those found in wine) with antioxidant properties which are health beneficial. Read More...
• Chocolate has great health benefits. It helps with depression, Tumors and Pre-menstrual syndromes.
  Read More...
• People spend more than $7 billion dollars a year on chocolate. Read More...

"After about 20 years of marriage, I'm finally starting to scratch the surface of that one [what women want]. And I think the answer lies somewhere between conversation and chocolate."

Mel Gibson

Conquer Your Fears & Let It Be Real Quote

“I believe one of the hardest things you can do is conquer your fears, but if you have a goal, then it's your job to open up and let it be real no matter how scary it seems." Similar Quotes

Feel Good Song: Nickelback - If Today Was Your Last Day

Great song and great lyrics!