Hilton Cancun All-Inclusive Resort
The Hilton Cancun All-Inclusive Resort located in Cancun, Mexico, was our choice for an “empty nesters” vacation last summer. Number one on my list when planning any vacation is enlisting the help of a travel agent. As someone who worked in the travel industry for 7 years, it’s a “must have” – domestic or international … do yourself a favor and let someone else do the work for you!
We spent seven nights at the Hilton Cancun. The video takes you through our firsthand experience with the resort: rooms, restaurants, food offerings, pools, and things we think you should know before you go!
Become a Fan!
For many different reasons and with much excitement, I've decided to set up a Facebook Fan Page. So often, people will write and say "I read your blog all the time ...". I'm completely flattered and...
Something About the Weather
We're having a small summer storm tonight. Light to my suburb, definitely a bit stronger just north of here. Like most kids, mine aren't particularly fond of the storms when they...
First Sleepover Anxiety … Mine, Not Hers!
Yesterday was a big day for my little girl. Her first sleepover with a girlfriend from school. She was thrilled and had no qualms when we questioned her about staying at someone else's home. Piper...
Awesome Snapfish Photo Deal
This is late notice, but I just REALLY read my email alert. Snapfish has a great deal on photos - expiration tomorrow (May 14). Print 120 4x6 photos for $10. Use code "MOM2010" at...
Tuesday Tidbit – Zout
For the past six years, I've relied on two products more than any other. So much so that I won't substitute the store-brand version ... and that is HUGE for me. Meet obsession #1 - Zout. The best...
Happy Anniversary, Texas
I can hardly believe that, as of Saturday, we've lived in Texas for four years. It truly seems like yesterday that we were packing boxes and babies (still in diapers) and heading out into a future...
Thought to Ponder
I came across a remarkable quote this morning and it has stayed with me provoking a lot of thought. "Skate to where the puck is headed, not where it's been." Wayne Gretzky I can relate this to...
Fundraising Help For Nashville
Many times in a natural disaster you can say "Well, unless you've been under a rock, you've heard about ..." But, actually, this time - it seems a lot of people HAVEN'T heard what is going on in...
Involved Kids & Supportive Parents
I taught high school color guard for 16-ish years. The majority of those years, I wasn't a mom. I took those kids under my wing and loved them like they were my own. During that time, I witnessed...
Stockpiling – How much is too much?
When I first started using The Grocery Game, I bought everything in sight. The sales that I was able to make on my list were overwhelmingly good and the thought of saving 75-80% on my grocery bill...
The Tweetnotebook
A little over a month ago, my friend/boss showed me the most awesome journal .. the Tweetnotebook. I could not believe how cool it was and immediately ordered one for myself. The book is 8.5" x 5.5"...
Biggest Pet Peeve #982693021b
I'm not a complainer. I really dislike hearing other people go on-and-on about situations that are totally out of their control (or mine)! Either do something about it or speak your peace {briefly}...
Showdown at the Crosswalk
Road Rage ... What a concept. Did it exist 20 years ago when the speed limits topped out nationwide at 55 mph? Has it increased with our demand and insistance on being all things to all people? How...
Understand Your Reward Cards
It seems that every business seems has a reward network now. I have three that I use frequently, but depending upon where you live in the US ... that number could be dramatically different. If you...
Things I Love About Summer
I'm on a winter/spring burnout. I was on vacation last week and it ended on a cool note. I, then, flew home to a very grey Monday and Tuesday. I need sunshine ... Boy, do I need sunshine. Here are...
Our First Pet Dies
Here's a video we made documenting the death of our first pet ... RIP Goldie/Tico: The Goldfish with two names! (We had the fish for almost a year when they decided that they wanted to change his...
RIP Julia Sugarbaker
I am in true mourning over the loss of Dixie Carter. I absoultely loved every role she ever played. What a good, moral woman she seemed to be. Kept herself out of the tabloids and on the screen ......
Proving Where I Live
Today, I registered my baby girl for school. "Real" school. The kind where I pay tuition through my property taxes and not by writing a check every week. Right now, she's enrolled in a Private...
April and May Sales
April starts a fun season of saving on shopping. I love spring cleaning and then replacing old things with new, fresh items that I can find on my adventures. I love shopping at yard sales during the...
22 Things I’ve Learned As A Mother
A couple of weeks ago, Stacy Julian (I'm a huge fan of hers) published this fun blog post. I was so inspired when I read it. I'm impressed that I only doubled Stacy on one item ... the band aids....
The Tooth Fairy Is Avoiding Us
I'm beginning to think that the Tooth Fairy has something againist my kids. They are 5 and 6 and guess what ... we have a full set of beautiful teeth. Perfect, cute ... baby teeth. We've been to the...
Saving Money AT the bank?!
Ever heard the saying "Out of sight, out of mind?" That works well for me when I'm talking about money. If I can't see it - I can't spend it. The key to getting started on with that theory may lie...
Time
I read something today that said "we all have the same 24 hours". I'm sure that somehow isn't true. If I have the same 24 hours as everyone else, how come my house is a wreck, I have (currently) 900...
Mission Tortilla is a Hit!
Several weeks ago, I attended the Mom 2.0 summit in Houston. One of the sponsors of the conference was Mission Tortilla. I was so impressed with the staff representing them - professional,...
Gaining Savings on the Products You Use
If your family is anything like mine, you have some tried and true favorites that you always come back to. Some of ours are Pop-Tarts, Baked Lays, Diet Coke, Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls ... just to...
Just Say No to Bullying
My mom and I had an interesting conversation a few nights ago regarding "bullying". She read a post that I wrote a while back about being teased as a child. She called to say "I had no idea. Why...
March Madness
It's March Madness time again. I can honestly say that other than the Olympics, this is the only time I'm a sports fan. I totally attribute this to being raised in Kentucky. The entire time I was...
My Little Models
I've been on stage my entire life ... well, since I was two years old. Dance recitals, beauty pageants, singing, color guard - you name it, I've done it. And, for the most part, I've done it pretty...
More on The View
I've told you in the past that The View has full episodes online now. These are great. I stream them nearly every day ... I love it, because I can listen to the audio and keep doing my life without...
Weigh 2 Go! Update
I've been so good this week and I'm really seeing results. I started slowly and have built up speed. I can honestly say that I truly think it's because of this that I feel like things are taking...
Is It Spring Cleaning Time Yet?
The weather is warm, the windows are open, the flowers are coming back to life ... Does that mean it's time to do the Spring Cleaning? I get a huge nesting feeling in the spring. It makes me want to...
Houston Spring Break
Today, I had another great opportunity to share tips on KSBJ during the Joey K Midday show. If you missed the segment or need further information, here are the tips that I shared: 1) HOUSTON...
The Weigh It Goes
The best thing that ever happened to me was the worst thing I ever did to my body. Can you guess what it was? Having two babies in 18 months. Those pregnancies, although I wouldn't trade them for...
I Can Hear!
The ear saga is SOLVED. A quick trip to RediCare offered a diagnosis and a cure. Hallelujah. The culprit ... Cleaning my ears with a Q-tip. Over the course of time, I've pushed wax back into my ear...
Ear Candle Experience
My ear has been blocked up for several days. I can only hear about 60% of what's going on, so life is highly annoying. I've tried ear candles in the past and since I think/thought that this might be...
Savings Savings Savings
Anyone that has followed me long knows that I love to save money. I never thought that I could have an addiction until I learned the value of a coupon. Now, I feel confident in saying that I'm an...
My Little Reason(er)
Avery is an old man trapped in a little boys body. I've said that his entire life. While he may need to be reminded to brush his teeth, he is, otherwise, an 85 year old. He moves in two modes - slow...
Fashionista? Who Knew?
You might never guess that I love fashion ... especially if you know me in real life, but I do. Don't get me wrong, I REALLY love comfort and tend to lean that way ... but there is a special place...
Baby’s First Conference
I've been blogging since 2004 and somehow I've managed to never attend a blogging conference. I've seen all the posts and nearly die with envy every time as I see pictures popping up like wild on...
New Favorite App
* I was not paid by PageOnce. This is purely something that I ran across on my own. I am not an endorsee, just a happy customer. Are you a frequent airline customer? What about a top-notch rental...
Wordless Wednesday – Is It Summer Yet?
I'm ready for beach scenes like this again ... Orange Beach, Alabama - August 2008
Take Time to Enjoy The View
As a working parent and a mom of two, I crave girl-talk ... conversations between women about regular things that are not daycare pricing, the latest virus, or fundraising forms. Because of my...
Crush on the Teacher
Avery's teacher is beautiful. He's never indicated that he has a crush on her, but I'm beginning to think that there may be a little spark. It's cute ... and, I mean, he is his father's son so it...
Stress to the 10th degree
The last 12 hours of my life have been some of the most stressful I've ever experienced. Ok ... let me start by saying that some of you will say "This is NOT real stress." I realize that I didn't...
Snow Heading My Way
This has been the wackiest winter ever in Houston. It has been cold. Yes, I know ... it's winter - it's supposed to be cold. But, here in the deep south, we prefer it to only be "coolish-cold". It...
Big Win with The Grocery Game
You might have noticed that I have a Grocery Game page. It will tell you the basics you need to get started with the program. I'm coming on my third anniversary with the program and I'm still raving...
Miss America 2010
Saturday night was a huge event in our house - Miss America 2010 pageant. I've loved pageants my whole life. And, now, I'm so pleased to announce that I have a pageant-loving daughter. It began last...
When Your Child Is Just Like You
When I look at Avery I see so much of myself. His personality is a carbon copy of mine ... especially from childhood. He's cautious. He's kind. He's a people pleaser to the core. I value those...
It Figures
During the big freeze a few weeks back, I wrapped our gas pipe instead of the water pipe. Such is my life. Typical.
A Broken Washington
This past Sunday, Dr. Ed Young (Pastor of Second Baptist Church - Houston) delivered one of the most powerful messages that I've ever heard. Kudos to a pastor that has the boldness to speak on the...
MIL Visit
I'm so blessed ... my mother-in-law is coming to visit this weekend. For two weeks. You read it right. I'm blessed and excited. Sandra is a complete God-send to me. I enjoy visiting and spending...
Still Time for a 365
If you have considered doing at Project 365 - today is a great time to start! So what if it's January 14 ... start today and run it through January 14, 2011. I'm [going to be] using a kit from Becky...
Thanks for the reminder, God
I'll admit it ... I've had baby envy for the past couple of weeks. Everyone I know is pregnant or having a baby. Two friends are even having twins [eeks!]. There's nothing better than a newborn...
Oral-B Professional Care 1000
Several weeks ago, I was selected to review an Oral-B Professional Care 1000 Rechargeable Toothbrush. Reviewing a toothbrush was not #1 on the list of products that I'd "love" to try, but I use one...
365 Update
So far ... so good! I've taken a picture everyday. [Honestly, I almost forgot one day, but remembered before I went to bed!!!] Many people have asked what I'm using for a kit ... I'm waiting for...
No Winter Wonderland for Me
Living in Texas has put a little crimp in my winter snow day dreams. We got a dusting of snow in early December with less than .0008" accumulation and the Houston Chronicle hailed the event as...
Hello 2010
I'm not a huge goal setter. I'm driven and fairly spontaneous, so things tend to just happen to me. Saying "I will live in the big house on the hill by the end of this year" isn't my cup of...
Holiday Hangover
I've taken a bit of a break from posting over the holidays, but I sincerely hope that all who read along have had a WONDERFUL and BLESSED Christmas. I've been cozied up with this ... It's my...
The Christmas Crud
It never fails ... well, actually, it usually does fail. But for some reason this year I got the "gift" a little early. I received it on Sunday in the middle of church - "The Christmas Crud"....
Wordless Wednesday – Santa 2005
Christmas 2005 ... which looks strikingly similar to Christmas 2006 ... which bears a stunning resemblance to Christmas 2007. Avery, always smiling; Piper, always crying (scared to death would be an...
Aquafresh Iso-Active
I recently received a product sample from Aquafresh. I agreed to review the sample and give my opinion via online survey. My husband laughed. But, in the world of blogging and the product reviews...
Cookie Exchange
I love baking. Taking time to bake during the holidays is my dream. And, since we were gone during Thanksgiving, I feel like I've lost half of my opportunity! I'm ready to dig in. Participating in...
Back to the Grind
We had a wonderful Disney vacation ... it was MAGICAL! Thanks for staying with me while I took a much needed break. I came back to face two days of work and then three days of food poisoning ... Fun...
Disney Week – Day 5 – Countdown Calendar
The one thing that can ruin the "before" of a vacation is the "is it today?", "how many more days?", etc. We've solved that by making a Disney Countdown calendar. This is our second year to do it....
Disney Week – Day Four – A Great Bag & What to Fill It With
Before our first trip to Disney, I read about what type of bag/backpack to take. Many people recommended a Baggallini, but I had a perfectly good backpack, so I decided to just use what I had. My...
Disney Week – Disney On Ice Review
Last week we had the pleasure, via Mom Central and Feld Entertainment, to go to Disney On Ice - 100 Years of Magic. Since we are heading out to Disney VERY soon, it was the perfect timing for us to...
Disney Week – Day Two – Hotel Organization
When we go to Disney we never splurge on hotel. Our days are long and we don't stop once we hit the resort ... so we go the Value route and never look back. However, the rooms are small and they can...
Disney Week – Day One – Message Boards
Anyone who knows my family knows that we love two things: music and Disney. This season will mark our Third Annual Family Trip. We go during this time for a lot of reasons, but the main one is that...
Different Kids – Different Methods
Two kids and two different candy organization methods ... Avery, the organizer, has his candy sorted and grouped; Piper, the spontaneous girl, just dumps it out and dives right in!
Being a Mom is Tough
Who knew that being a mom was so tough. I mean, you hear people say it all the time ... but I thought that the tough part was getting up in the middle of the night and potty-training. I passed that...
Happy Birthday, Piper
Philippians 1:3 - "I thank my God every time I remember you." Dear Piper, You've spent your entire lifetime being in a hurry. Being born in just 20 minutes, walking early, potty training early,...
Disney on Ice (Houston)
Today marks the beginning of my Disney postings for our 2009 trip. We are 32 days away and we are so excited!!! On November 11, we'll become even more excited because we were chosen to view this...
The Best Pumpkin Dessert Ever!
This is the best pumpkin dessert ever! I made this last week and ... seriously ... can not get enough of how good it is. Even Don said last night "I think this might be the best thing you've...
Wordless Wednesday
My kids have always been close. They shared a nursery for the first three years they were alive. Lately, they have enjoyed reading together at night and are wanting to sleep in the same room again....
Review – Joshua Bell “At Home With Friends”
I was selected to receive a free/pre-release copy of Joshua Bell's new album "At Home With Friends." (You can buy it here.) To be quite honest, I'd never heard of Joshua Bell. I'm not sure what rock...
Why Band Kids Are The Best Kids!
We are a family of band lovers. I was in band starting in middle school ... and then taught color guard after high school for nearly 20 years. My husband is still teaching marching band after school...
Rewards for Good Grades
This came to me via email today from the Texas Couponers Group. I don't know their original source, but I'm guessing it's a site like Slickdeals.net. (Love that site!!!) ----- FREEBIES For Having A...
Fall? Autumn? Bueller?
I'm am dying with sinus problems or maybe they're allergy problems. Whatever they are, they weren't here before I moved to Houston. My eyes feel like someone is pushing on the back of them ... my...
General Motors Makes Good on Return Policy
Many of you remember back in August when I was invited to spend a day in Detroit at General Motors Headquarters as part of the Product and Technology event. That day completely changed the way I...
Week to Remember!
This has been a week I'll never forget ... and that may be putting it lightly! I can't share all of the story right now, but when the time is right and things have progressed - I'll let you in on...
Slimpressions Winner!
Congratulations Rachael ...! You won!!! Everyone else will be receiving (via email this weekend) a 25% off coupon for Slimpressions.com. Thanks to Slimpressions for allowing me to try their product...
Reasons to Love Slimpressions!
I'm still excited about Slimpressions! I know that you will be too once you own a piece from their collection. Here are more reasons to love them ... Slimpressions is everyday shapewear €¦ wear...
Slimpressions
For the last week, I've been wearing an amazing new tank from Slimpressions. It's called "Tanks A Lot" and I L-O-V-E it. If you've ever been in a dance or exercise class that has required you to...
Happy Birthday to Me!
Today, I'm 36. That is almost unimagineable to me. I really can not believe I'm that old. I'm so glad that 40 is the new 30. I'm thrilled, actually. Where did this girl go? The girl with a Type A...
A first graders take on “the speech”
I'm going to leave you wondering what our families take on the Obama speech was. But, I will say, that our school district chose to air the speech one day later than the "live" version. We did not...
Wordless Wednesday – Sleepy Girl
Piper loves to sleep ... I mean LOVES to sleep. She is a girl that values a good nap and then can turn around and sleep all night. This picture was taken last weekend. She was playing & then all...
Skin So Soft
If you've ever heard of Avon, you've most likely heard of their product "Skin So Soft". I remember using this product when I was a teenager, but hadn't given it a thought in the last 15 years. I...
5 Stars, a Pig & a Firetruck
This was my view at our anniversary dinner on Monday night. Fancy place settings, a pig, and a firetruck. ... and it was wonderful. We decided at the last minute to go to a really nice restaurant to...
Will You Pray for This Child?
Many of you know that Don and I have a long history with the Marching Arts. He still teaches competitive drumline and I, after teaching color guard fulltime for 18 years, now just dabble in it on...
No 7 Year Itch Here
Today is my seven year anniversary to the love of my life. We have been through trials and huge pits ... but we have successfully battled everything that has come our way and are all the better for...
Pray for Your Child – Day Four
Note to self ... don't update your Wordpress version in the middle of a segment piece! Sorry about the delay of this post! It seems like yesterday to me. December 1, 1997. I lived in Paducah,...
Pray for Your Child – Day Three
As parents, we hold the role of major influencer in our children's lives. With my children the ages that they are now, they mimic and imitate everything that they see us do. This is especially true...
Pray for Your Child – Day Two
Recently I came across a book that I absolutely love. It's entitled "Praying the Scriptures for Your Children" by Jodie Berndt. It is a wonderful resource for really learning how to pray for your...
Pray for Your Child – Day One
I've never done a series before, but I'm launching one today. This past Mother's Day, our pastor's wife brought the message in our church. One phrase that she said has not left my mind ... "If you,...
We Need Your Vote!
I know my readers well ... You're always up for a challenge! My husband said that I'm "voting" you all to death. My sincerest "sorry" goes out. But do you have it in you one more time? My sweet...
Make Me Pretty, Please!
Meet my friend, Staci ... Everyone say "hello" ... (Yes, I stole this picture off of her Facebook. It's my favorite!) Staci works with my husband and has been a longtime friend. Poor soul, she was...
Grocery Game – FREE Trial
Just read - as I'm pulling my weekly grocery/coupon list - that the Grocery Game 4-week trial is now FREE. If you haven't tried it yet ... now is the time! Use me as a referral, please....
I’m back!!!
I've not given up on the interwebs 🙂 I've been on vacation ... but I'm back! Look for some great reading this week ... Until then ... here's a peak at my last 7 days!
Information Overload!
The 36 hours I spent in Detroit with the General Motors team were a complete whirlwind. I want to tell you everything that I experienced, but I need a day or two to completely process it! Until then...
Trip to Detroit
I'm headed into uncharted territory next week. There is no doubt that you're familiar with General Motors. With all the press that they've received regarding the bailout, bankruptcy, and other...
Wordless Wednesday – Your Child’s Childhood
"You are responsible for your child's childhood." Author Unknown This is my favorite picture from last summer. My kids with Great GrandPap in Pennsylvania. Look at the joy on their faces. What else...
Transformation Process
Thanks to Thrifty Decor Chick I got a little motivation to organize our home office this past weekend. Our office has been the dumping ground. A true dumping ground. It's the room where everything...
They CROC My World
I used to be the girl that had more shoes than Amelda Marcos. I had a pair of shoes for every outfit and sometimes two pairs for each one! I definitely got it from my grandmother. Now there's a lady...
Wordless Wednesday – No Place Like Home
This is the slab to our home circa March 2007. With people all over this country losing their houses for various reasons, I feel so blessed to have been able to build this home from the ground up....
Reality Show Junkie
My life has been consumed by Reality TV. I am completely fascinated by how other people live their lives and what happens behind (what used to be) closed doors. And, since it is all you can find on...
16 and Pregnant
Never to be let down, I have found another reality show that I just can't get enough of. This show - 16 and Pregnant - is hosted by Dr. Drew and is on MTV. Somehow Don and I have ended up catching...
Wordless Wednesday – What Astros?
Cotton Candy at a Baseball Game. Better than the game itself 🙂
It’s Time
I wish I had something extremely clever to write, but alas ... I do not. I'm too blah-ed out thinking about the overwhelming need to take better care of myself and guess what ... It's time. The next...
So Long Ago …
I ran across this picture today. It was taken on Christmas morning 2005. There are so many memories that flood back from just this one picture. (Avery was 2 yrs. and Piper was 1 yr. old) 1) This was...
Wordless Wednesday: A Wishing Star
This picture was taken in Cinderella's Castle at Disney World. There is a moment when you dine with the Princesses where the children are all given a star and you "make a wish upon a star". Have you...
Russo’s New York Pizzeria
Are you looking for a great place to eat in the Katy area? If so, march yourselves over to Russo's New York Pizzeria. It's in the Bella Terra shopping center (5530 W Grand Parkway S, Ste 200,...
Vote for me!
I submitted a cooking tip on the Lazy Mom's website this week and I've made it to the TOP 5. If I win, I get a fab-u-lous new Oster Fusion Blender ... I really need that blender. I'm desperate for...
(Almost) Wordless Wednesday – The Monorail
I'm sure all of you have heard about the terrible monorail accident at DisneyWorld this weekend. Our hearts have been broken for all involved. It's so sad. I can't imagine anyone loving DisneyWorld...
The Shred
I really want to write about seeing The Proposal and The Hangover this weekend. They were the funniest movies ... I loved them both. I'd love to talk about how I went to the Galleria mall for the...
Need A Vehicle? Go Here & Fast!
If you've been around here much lately, you know that we recently got a new car. It was like murder. I don't see how people get a new car every two years ... and consider it fun. We found a true...
WFMW – Summer Recipe Edition
It's Works for Me Wednesday - Summer Recipe Edition today. I had a ball looking through all the links on Kristen's site. I found some wonderful recipes! Last year, I posted my awesome Strawberry...
A Wedding Weekend
The kids and I hopped a plane and headed to Kentucky this weekend. You might remember me writing about Piper and her flower girl dress a couple of weeks ago. The groom, Drew, is a long time friend...
Wordless Wednesday – Father’s Day
This picture stinks for the most part ... it was taken on my phone. However, I love that you can see the HUGE smile on Piper's face. Usually, if she wants to dance she comes to me. We have a lot of...
Swagbucks Rock My World
Have you heard of Swagbucks? It's a great new way to earn free things while you search the internet. I love Google, so it was a hard switch for me. But, now, I can't believe I waited so long. All...
We have a winner!
The car saga has finally ended! On Saturday, we drove home a 2008 Mitsubishi Endeavor. It has all the bells and whistles that we wanted, has a great reliability rating, and drives like a dream. I'll...
Adventures in Car Buying
I feel like I'm a pretty savvy gal. I think that I have a grasp on how to handle myself in most any situation. I'm fairly level-headed and feel like I can speak intelligently on adult issues. But,...
Nintendo DS
Avery got a Nintendo DS for his birthday. He was so excited and amazed that he finally had one. He told us that it was his "wish" as he was blowing out the candles 🙂 Of course, the thing has been...
Happy Birthday, Avery
1 Samuel 1:27-28 - "I prayed for this child, and God gave me what I asked for. And now I have dedicated him to God. He's dedicated to God for life." Dear Avery, There are not enough words, enough...
Sea World
We spent the weekend in San Antonio. It's a great city €“ if you've never been there, you should definitely visit. We usually stay downtown and go to the Riverwalk for the great atmosphere and...
Ridemakerz Winner Announced
Thank you to all that entered. Even if you didn't win this time, visit a store or Ridemakerz.com. You'll have a blast!!! Random.org chose entry #4 as our winner. Congratulations to Candy from...
Last Day of Kindergarten
Today is Avery's last day of Kindergarten. He's excited about the summer and all the fun that it brings when you're a 5 year old boy, but me ... I'm sad. I'm sad because he's had a wonderful...
Ridemakerz Give Away!
A few Sunday's back, we had the incredible opportunity to spend the afternoon at Ridemakerz at the Baybrook Mall in Friendswood. I had never been to the store before, and quite honestly, had never...
Diagnose Me!
Symptom 1 - horrible headache Symptom 2 - nauseous Symptom 3 - not sleeping well Symptom 4 - moody or just generally don't feel well Anyone have any idea what this is? I've adjusted my diet and...
Friday Favorites – iPhone Apps
Many of my friends are purchasing iPhones. I'm not sure why the sudden upswing is on again, but the first thing people want to know is "What are your favorite apps?" Here are my TEN personal...
One Year Later
One year ago today, many of us stayed glued to our computers as we heard of the tragedy surrounding Steven Curtis Chapman's family. In the blink of an eye and in a horrible accident, their precious...
Diva Flower Girl
Piper is prepping to be in a wedding. Well, actually, we are prepping Piper to be in a wedding. She's the flower girl, of course. And, at the ripe age of 4 1/2, this is her second wedding. She took...
Weather … or not
The National Hurricane Center has been watching a disturbance over the Bahamas the past few days. It's a hot news item in Texas as we enter into the official beginning of Hurricane Season 2009. For...
Warehouse Clubs
Check out this incredible article comparing Warehouse Store prices... Click Here.
Sounds Good To Me
As many of you know, I'm doing an 8-week test drive of a 2009 Chevy Traverse as a part of the "Mommy Madness" campaign sponsored by CBS Radio and the Houston area Chevy dealers. There are so many...
People of Redemption
My friend, Stephen Miller, has a new CD that has been released today. I was lucky enough to get a copy last week 🙂 Stephen is the worship leader for the contemporary service at Sugar Creek. If you...
Happy Anniversary, Texas
Three years ago this week, we packed up and moved from Nashville to Houston, Texas. It really seems like it was just a couple of weeks ago. It's amazing to see what God has done for us over the...
Barnyard Praise
Can you stand how cute these little praisers are? (If the video doesn't load for you, go here to see it directly!) My little horse is closest to the center and my cowboy is the closest to the center...
Wii Fit
I got a WiiFit for Mother's Day. It's cheaper than a gym membership, right?What can you do at home that you are currently paying a membership fee for? Look, think, and realize that some things may...
Massage Envy!
This is my sweet friend, Gery, and her adorable son, Evan. Aren't they beautiful?I met Gery almost two years ago. Our kids go to the same daycare.Actually, it goes a little deeper than that ...Our...
Ok, let’s talk Jon and Kate
I know it's on your mind ... let's just fess up. Are you following/wondering about Jon and Kate Gosselin? What's the truth? What's not?Here's what I think ...I think it stinks.I think that no matter...
Mommy Makeover Day
It was Mommy Makeover Day at Avery's school. I went into this not having the first idea what this would bring, but SURE that Avery wanted me there. I made arrangements to be gone from work and...
A Day In Our Life
I did a video for the Mommy Madness site about everywhere our car goes in a typical day.I'm worn out just thinking about it!A Day In Our Life from Stephanie Click on Vimeo.(If you can't see the...
Chevy Traverse FAQ
It seems like everyone I meet is asking questions about the Traverse. I LOVE answering them - it’s been so fun to drive this car and find something new every day.Many of the moms have answered...
Great Bra Sale!
Did you read this great post on Lazy Mom's last week? Well, as luck would have it - there are two amazing bra sales going on this week.Check out your local Kohl's and J C Penney for sales and real...
Grocery Game
Lots of people are asking me about The Grocery Game. Here's a link directly to a post I wrote about it!Good luck - and please use me as a referral 🙂 stephanie@sassysaving.comGrocery Game Link
First Trip To the Dentist
I put off taking the kids to the dentist for too long. I'm not really sure why. I carry dental insurance for each child ... I guess it's really just been "out of sight, out of mind".Yesterday, the...
Barnyard Praise TONIGHT!
Tonight is the closing program for the WAM Jr. program at Second Baptist Church. This is Avery's second year to be involved. Since February, Piper has been involved and I joined as a "helper".Avery...
CNN Coupon Video
Can't get the video to embed, but it's worth watching!
Spring 2009 Garage Sale
Last Saturday, April 25, was the designated Garage Sale day for our neighborhood. If you live in a Master Planned Community, then you are probably familiar with the fact that everyone has to have...
Rain Rain Go Away
It has rained ... and rained .... and rained some more. We have begun work on the arc but we aren't quite done yet.Seriously ... I'm thinking that I'll need to take back the Traverse and ask for a...
Mommy Madness Houston – 1,000 Votes!
I crossed the 1,000 vote mark today. Thanks friends for helping me in this fantastic endeavor!If you haven't yet visited the site, check out Mommy Madness Houston.
Simple Way to Save
Does your bank offer a program where they put a set amount in a savings account each month? My bank takes $1 for every debit purchase and deposits it in a high-yield savings account. Other banks...
Prayers for Compassion
Four bloggers that I follow faithfully online are headed to India at this moment. I began reading their blogs all at different times, so I thought it was very cool that they were chosen to travel on...
Chevy Traverse Video #1
I'm part of a great promotion with Chevy and CBS Radio. You can read on my personal blog for the details, but here's my first video!Driving to Downtown Houston - Stephanie Click -...
Driving Downtown Houston
Driving to Downtown Houston - Stephanie Click - MommyMadnessHouston.com from Stephanie Click on Vimeo.
My New Ride … for now.
Several weeks ago, I received an email from a lady saying that she had come across my blog and was interested in me doing a promotion for her. Assuming it was spam, I nearly deleted it. I decided to...
Vacation
Look forward to posting again on Tuesday, April 21
Music City Mystique? WGI?
This afternoon, I'm leaving to spend the next four days with some of the best kids on the planet. These kids (kids to me anyway) are the members of Music City Mystique, a non-profit music...
My Pantry – Pic Heavy
Next month will mark my Second Anniversary of The Grocery Game. Last night, my friend Shelly asked me what my pantry looked like.Here's a little peak!This is a look into the pantry. This is my...
Crazy Pants Day
I got Avery all the way to the bus this morning and was giving him a hug before I realized that his pants were on backwards.Seriously. Backwards. Buttoned. Zipped. The whole nine yards.I'm still not...
Newspaper Subscription
Are you subscribing to your Sunday newspaper yet? Prices are going up all across the nation. Our local Sunday paper was only $1 in 2006, now it's increased to $1.75.If you subscribe, you'll be...
Dancing in Wal-Mart
Sometimes we have a little bit too much fun with the music sampling station 🙂
My Big (Little) Girl
We're so proud of little Piper - this is her first time on the Honor Roll. (It's her first opportunity to be on the Honor Roll. Hate to make it sound like she's been 'underachieving'.)Yesterday was...
Lover of the Arts?
My husband and I are HUGE fans of the arts. We love dance, music, drama ... all of it. There is a hidden gem, most likely, in your backyard. Your local high school.In Texas, dance is a big deal....
Britney Concert Review
I'm still excited about this concert. I'd see it again and again and again ... It was amazing. Here are a couple of basic observations:(1) The Pussycat Dolls were great live. They was no lip-syncing...
Need some free fun this weekend?
One thing that many of us overlook when considering our weekend fun are the State and National Parks. Many of these great places are free (or nearly free) when considering all the things that you...
4 more days
Four more days until the Britney Spears concert. I'm so so so excited.We bought the tickets so long ago that it's kind-of slipped my mind and just yesterday I realized it was actually time to get...
Do You Meal Plan?
Do you plan your weekly meals? It's a great way to save money and time on busy weeknights.The key to making this the most cost effective solution is using your grocery flyers. Most grocery sales (in...
Swagbucks
Have you heard of Swagbucks? It's a great new way to earn free things while you search the internet.I love Google, so it was a hard switch for me. But, now, I can't believe I waited so long.All you...
Spring Break
We've had a busy week. I took a little blogging Spring Break ...(1) My Aunt Tempa came to visit from Lexington. Everyone says I am more like Tempa than anyone else in the family. I hope that's true...
Come On Jessica!
This precious gal is my friend, Jessica. It seems like she's been pregnant for a year. Bless her heart, we've been praying for her angel, Quinn, to make an appearance and she's not ready yet.I could...
CVS
Anyone that knows me KNOWS that I am in love with CVS. I have saved more money in that store than at any other place I shop. There is a huge misconception that it's all health care, medical, and...
Our "Pet"
We have a pet. Well, Avery and Piper have a pet. Let me be more specific ... Avery and Piper have a pet that I care for and they rarely even notice.It all started in June of 2006. We lived like this...
TGIF
Thank God (literally) It's Friday!!!This day has been a trainwreck for me. Anyone else see a recurring theme? I'm planning to spend a lot of time this weekend reflecting on what the obstacles are in...
The Bachelor
I think I can finally talk about the Bachelor and not get in a tizwad.I was so mad on Monday night that I could have chewed through the couch cushion. I cried, I cussed (yes, I said it), I almost...
The Mom Quiz
I gave this quiz to my kids tonight. I had them come in one at a time so they wouldn't influence one another. The results are ... well, thought provoking.1. What is something mom always says to...
What A Day!
Yesterday was not my best day to say the least.(1) My hair was a wreck. More than it is on an average day. I'm over it. I want to get in cut completely off and start all over.(2) Couldn't get ahead...
I love my church …
.... for things like this - Changed Lives. Real people. Proof that God is alive and that he's not finished with his work.Changed Lives 2009 from Second Films on VimeoIf you can't see the player...
Sibling Fun
I'm lucky that on most days, my kids play well together. I think this has to do with three things:(1) Boy/Girl(2) Their close proximity in age(3) Their personalities are SO differentBut, they have...
Are you on Twitter yet? If you aren't, you certainly are missing out.I feel that I'm pretty good at this saving money stuff. I've got it down for the most part, but I THRIVE on learning new things...
Hannah Montana
Most of you know by now that with Piper - you never know what she's going to say. She's 4 years old going on 16. Oh, and complete girly girl. Geez ... we are in for it.Well, last night she made the...
NEED NEW APPLIANCES?
One of my great friends and his wife are closing on a house next week, and happened to mention that they are in the market for new appliances. I mentioned to them that a great place to get...
NOT HAPPY w/ HEALTHCARE
I'm a little miffed right now. This has not been the greatest week in Click Healthcare History.Here's the 30 second summary:Monday - Avery throws up in Target. Yes, I said, in Target ... not in...
Your Bank
Are you using the right bank for you? When was the last time that you really looked around for what new products and services are out there.I use two banks: Wachovia and ING. I'm completely happy...
Valentine’s Day Plans
What are your Valentine plans? Remember with a little thinking and googling - you can do it very economically.My IDEAL Valentine's Day would be at The Melting Pot, a new release movie (not Disney),...
Bible Verse Video
As promised ... here are the kids singing Luke 6:31 (last week's Bible verse!)If it doesn't load, go HERENext week is Ephesians 4:2 - "Be patient bearing with one another in love." Sung to the tune...
The Bachelor
I'll admit it ... I'm completely addicted to The Bachelor. Jason is hott ... There I said that too! I'm really happy with the three girls that are left. Melissa is my favorite, followed by Jillian...
It’s Redbox Day!!!
Are You Friends With Your Favorites
Are you visiting the sites of the things that you love most in life?I love:Diet CokeCVSPop-TartsSkinny Cow Ice CreamProctor & Gamble ProductsKroger(just to name a few)Because of this, these are...
Weekly Bible Verse
If you'll remember, one of my resolutions for this year was to do a weekly Bible verse with the kids. I was a little slow getting started, but we're on it now!This week is Luke 6:31 - "Do unto...
Our Little Pageant House
This my friends in Miss Indiana, Katie Stam ... I've seen her crowned Miss America seven, yes seven, times!!! Piper is STILL obsessed with watching the pageant. If she wasn't so blasted cute while...
The Grocery Game
Welcome back, shoppers!!! I've done a lot of work on the development end of this blog and can't wait to help you save loads and money and find the best deals around. The best way that I know to get...
Don’s Neck Trauma
Don's had some horrible neck problems lately. It started on January 8, and as of today, he has still not gotten any relief. He's been to a Family Practitioner, who then sent him to a...
Scarfing Day Two and Words of Wisdom
It's Day Two of "The Year of the Scarf". Yesterday I did a video blog about it. (If you are reading this on Facebook, follow my "real" blog at http://stephanieclick.blogspot.com to see the...
The Year of the Scarf
My "friend" Angie Smith and new "friend" Brandi Wilson are the official 2009 Scarf Diva's. I'm so upset that I didn't meet them when I lived in Nashville. We would have been fast friends ... like...
2009 – A New Year for Me
These are my New Year's Resolutions. Yes, I am fully aware that January is nearly over, but I've really thought about these for a while and these are items that I want to make hold in my life and...
Carrie Underwood
The girl flat TORE ... IT ... UP at the People's Choice Awards. I guess this is one of those songs that everyone can relate too, so that's probably why I liked it so much.I downloaded it first thing...
BooMama’s Tour of Homes
It's that time again ... and I'm three days later than I intended to be. I'm also not as thorough as I intended to be. This Christmas season started with a bang for me, then hit a lull ... and now,...
Polar Express Day
This made my heart smile!Today was pajama day in Kindergarten. The kids were able to bring pillows, blankets, and a stuffed animal. They were going to eat gingerbread cookies, drink hot chocolate...
Hysterical
I had to blog about this picture today. To me, it's the funniest of our whole trip. We stood in a short line to pull on the sword. It's important to note that everyone in front of us was a child....