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28.12.10

As we approach the close of the holiday season, we start to reflect on how we want our new year to be. The most popular new years resolutions are weight loss, and financial gains. And in the beginning for most of us, it seems to be on the right track, but for some unknown reason we often fall off the band wagon. I pray that everyone has a great year in 2011, and that they stay focused, and are able to maintain their resolutions!!!

14.12.10

Media Hype & Teens!

In a recent Newsweek poll, 77% of Americans believe that celebrities have too much of an influence on young kids. It’s evident based on their appearance and attitude. Teens are no longer dreaming of going to college, and becoming a doctor or lawyer. They are dreaming of living the glamorous life. A life that they see celebrities live, or so they think they live based on media hype. Whether we like it or not celebrities are role models for our teens. On Babble.com there is an article about “Dr. Drew Pinsky an addiction specialist and the host of VH1’s Celebrity Rehab. He co-wrote a book called, The Mirror Effect: How Celebrity Narcissism is Seducing America, he talks about our fascination with celebrities, and mirroring back celebrities narcissism and running the risk of bringing their dangerous sexual behavior, drug use and emotional instability into our own lives. A mother on recovery.com tells her therapist that: That her 15 yr old daughter has quit the cheerleading squad, no longer dreams of becoming a lawyer, and isolates herself while reading celebrity gossip, and becoming more rebellious at home.

From Britney, Lindsay, to Paris, and now Disney kid Demi Lovato who recently dropped out of a world tour to enter rehab for “physical & emotional issues”. Young celebrities are spiraling out of control. Their wild partying, drug & alcohol use is being plastered on TV, internet blogs, and magazine covers for the entire world to see. A world filled with impressionable preteen and teens that idolize them. Adolescence is a time of soul searching and finding an identity. Often times mimicking the lifestyle of their favorite celebrity is the only way for them to form one. Teens are constantly processing information and a significant amount of that information affects the person they become. Should the media be the blame with our youth’s preoccupation with celebrities? Or should parents take some responsibility in how much a teen is consuming negative information?

Based on a recent survey done by the Kaiser Family Foundation, two in every three parents feel that their children are being exposed to too much inappropriate content in the media. 34% of parents say that they believe that television contains the most inappropriate content. Since many parents work outside of the home, and are not always around during times when kids are watching the news, MTV shows, or reading internet blogs, and magazines that can tell them things that should be left for parents to explain. It is the parents job to minimize the negative influence these out-of-control idols have on the kids. Teenagers who are not getting the proper guidance and advice from parents on what is appropriate behavior to follow, then this can cause detrimental effects.

Parents must be willing to set and enforce certain rules pertaining to what they feel is in the best interest of their children. It is up to the parent to help guide their teenager and make them aware of the potential difficulties they will face during these years. A teen’s personality is still very much a work in progress, so it is up to the parents to exercise their better judgment and put it in to play. Parents must make themselves accessible to their teen or risk the repercussions that may come with lack of good parenting.
Celebrities need to change the way they act and how they are viewed. They need to support more drug free programs instead of using drugs. Programs like, Live Above the Influence, which is run by Office of National Protection. They should use the media for good, and refrain from publicizing a life of excessive drug & alcohol use.

26.11.10

My 1st article!

Check out my 1st article with hopetodaymagazine.com:

http://www.hopetodaymagazine.com/article_Lifestyle_OMG_Mothers_who_are_becoming_addicts_to_cope_with_stress.html

9.11.10

Children and High Blood Pressure!

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke in adulthood. Children of all ages can have high blood pressure too. The American Heart Association recommends that all children age 3 and older have yearly blood pressure measurements. Early detection of high blood pressure will improve health care of children. Some symptoms of high blood pressure can include:
Headaches
Blurred Vision
Chest Pain

A blood pressure reading has two numbers. The upper number measures the pressure in your child’s arteries when the heart beats (systolic pressure). The lower number measures the pressure in your child’s arteries between beats (diastolic pressure). A child’s sex, age and height are used to determine blood pressure percentiles. If your child’s blood pressure is extremely high, than your physician may want to run other tests such as:
Blood Test
Urinalysis
Ultrasound of the Kidneys
Echocardiogram to measure blood flow through the heart

High blood pressure in children younger than 10 years old is usually caused by another medical condition such as heart or kidney diseases such as secondary hypertension. During a routine visit to our pediatrician last year, my 13 year-old daughter had a high blood pressure reading. After numerous tests she was diagnosed with a condition called Fibro muscular Dysplasia (FMD) which is a disease that can cause narrowing of arteries in the kidneys, the carotid arteries supplying the brain, and less commonly, the arteries of the abdomen. In individuals with FMD, the cells in the walls of the arteries undergo abnormal growth. As a result the inner passage of the vessels may become narrowed making blood flow difficult causing high blood pressure.

High blood pressure in children can also develop for the same reasons it does in adults. Being overweight, eating a poor diet and not exercising. Some children inherit the tendency from one or both parents who may have high blood pressure. According to The American Heart Association, high blood pressure is more frequent and more severe in families of African Americans than among Caucasians. Researchers don’t fully understand the reasons why.

Children who have high blood pressure are likely to continue to have high blood pressure as adults unless they begin treatment early. Lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet consisting of low sodium products (children should have no more than 1,200 mg of sodium a day), and exercising more (most children need up to 60 minutes a day of physical activity), can help reduce high blood pressure in children. Some children may need to take a special low dose blood pressure medicine as well.

If you are concerned about your child’s risk for high blood pressure, you should talk to your health care provider.

7.11.10

As I type this, I am watching a very inspiring show with my daughter on BET. BLACK GIRLS ROCK!! Phenomenal black women coming together to celebrate all black women. Black Women being recognized for all of their hard work. From teen girls to women, black girls are making great strides in our world today.

1.11.10

Beans, Beans, and More Beans!!

I remember growing up I hated all Beans except for Baked Beans of course, but now as an adult I eat all types of beans from; black beans to lima beans. Almost all beans are delicious and super healthy for you!

Black Beans: rich and smoky in flavor, these hearty beans taste almost meaty. They taste great in most mexican dishes.

Garbanzo Beans: chickpeas these are often called. Nutty and buttery, often mashed up with garlic and oil for a dip called hummus. Which taste great with warm pita bread.

Lentils: brown, red, or green beans! Taste great in soups.

Kidney Beans: The BIG RED Bean! They are shaped just like a Kidney. They taste great w/ rice, olive oil, and veggies or chili.

Pinto Beans: creamy texture. Never tasted them, so not sure what they taste good with.

22.10.10

Girl World Tour

Girl World Tour

Time Off!

I have had some time off..well ok just two days. I could so be a SAHM (stay at home mom), It feels good to be home when your children get home from school, or be able to attend school trips, and even better it feels great to have dinner ready at a reasonable time like 5:30 or even 6:30 not 7:30 or sometimes 8:30. Don't get me wrong I love my job, and I am grateful that I even have one. But it is nice sometimes to take off..

14.10.10

Mid-Day Funnies!

Kids are quick

TEACHER: Maria, go to the map and find North America.
MARIA: Here it is.
TEACHER: Correct. Now class, who discovered America ?
CLASS: Maria.
__________________________________________
TEACHER: Why are you late, Frank?
FRANK: Because of the sign.
TEACHER: What sign?
FRANK: The one that says, "School Ahead, Go Slow."
_________________________________
TEACHER: John, why are you doing your math multiplication on the floor?
JOHN: You told me to do it without using tables.
__________________________________________
TEACHER: Glenn, how do you spell "crocodile?"
GLENN: K-R-O-K-O-D-I-A-L"
TEACHER: No, that's wrong
GLENN: Maybe it is wrong, but you asked me how I spell it.
_______________________________________________
TEACHER: Donald, what is the chemical formula for water?
DONALD: H I J K L M N O.
TEACHER: What are you talking about?
DONALD: Yesterday you said it's H to O.
__________________________________
TEACHER: Winnie, name one important thing we have today that we didn't
have ten years ago.
WINNIE: Me!
__________________________________________
TEACHER: Glen, why do you always get so dirty?
GLEN: Well, I'm a lot closer to the ground than you are.
_______________________________________
TEACHER: Millie, give me a sentence starting with "I."
MILLIE: ! I is...
TEACHER: No, Millie..... Always say, "I am."

MILLIE: All right.. "I am the ninth letter of the alphabet."
_________________________________
TEACHER: George Washington not only chopped down his father's cherry
tree, but also admitted it. Now, Louie, do you know why his father didn't
punish him?
LOUIS: Because George still had the ax in his hand.
______________________________________
TEACHER: Now, Simon, tell me frankly, do you say prayers before eating?
SIMON: No sir, I don't have to, my Mom is a good cook.
______________________________
TEACHER: Clyde, your composition on "My Dog" is exactly the same as your
brother's. Did you copy his?
CLYDE : No, teacher, it's the same dog.
___________________________________
TEACHER: Harold, what do you call a person who keeps on talking when
people are no longer interested?
HAROLD: A teacher.

The Achievement Gap!

The achievement gap: Why it exists and how to make it stop.



The achievement gap refers to the observed disparity on a number of educational measures between the performance of groups of students defined by gender, race/, ability and socioeconomic status. It has been observed on a variety of measures such as, standardized test scores, grade point average, and dropout rates. There has been a widening educational achievement gap affecting low-income students in recent years, mostly effecting African Americans. CNN reported that in 2007 21 percent of black students dropped out of high school, that’s more than 1 in 5 students. While the dropout rate for white students was 12.2 percent. The NAACP reports that high school graduates from low-income families are more reluctant than their peers to enroll in college immediately after high school. They also report that the rate of African Americans who finish college is low compared to other ethnic groups. Researchers suggest that due to cultural differences between blacks and whites, some black parents may not encourage or stress the importance of early childhood education. As a result, black students tend to begin school with smaller vocabularies that could affect their language skills and the way they retain information. Studies show that students, who have parental support with schoolwork, tend to do better school. This is a problem for most black students, since they typically come from single-parent homes, and often times that one parent is not available. Causing a child to fall behind, or lack motivation. Also children in low-income areas will more than likely attend poorly funded schools where they have fewer educational resources, and less qualified teachers than those schools in upper class districts.

Efforts to close the achievement gap have become a priority. In 2001 the “NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND” act was passed to ensure that all children have the same educational opportunities. Schools now offer tutoring services, pre-k programs, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia has implemented an early childhood education program, that teaches low-income families the importance of pre-school. A new alternative for low-income families who want to provide their children with a good quality education is Charter schools, which are primary, or secondary schools that receive public money or private donations, and are in predominantly urban neighborhoods, and most of the students perform above and beyond the required curriculum than those students who attend poorly funded public schools, and they score proficient or advanced on most state standardized tests. Charter schools are not subject to some of the rules and regulations that apply to other public schools. They are founded by teachers; parents or CEO’s of major corporations who feel restricted by traditional public schools. Some charter schools specialize in certain fields like, math, language etc. Their goal is to provide a better and more efficient general education to inner city children and make sure everyone has the opportunity to go to college. According to a new study from MDRC, a non-profit research group, they key to improving education minority children students may be to close all the large, failing public schools in the country and replace them with a large number of smaller schools. In July 2010, at a National Urban League Conference, President Obama spoke about how in only two years since Mastery Charter School in Philadelphia took over three low performing schools that math and reading levels have nearly doubled, and crime is down 80 percent. Their commitment was to close the achievement gap within three years. Misconduct is not tolerated at Mastery. If a student has three or more instances, than the student and their parents must meet with the board to determine if he/she should be expelled from the school. 100 percent of Mastery’s 2009 graduating class was accepted in either a 2 or 4-year college program, and the students received over $2 million in scholarship support. The teacher’s, staff, and parents have high expectations for the students. Parents are expected to join the Home & School Association and fulfill 30 hours of volunteer hours per year. The student’s grades are loaded on a web portal so that parents can see their child’s progress on a weekly basis. I myself am the proud parent of a Mastery student who will be entering the 8th grade this fall. Last year she made the honor roll three times. The motto at Mastery is “Excellence. No Excuses!”

The achievement gap is costing the country trillions of dollars each year, and although there has been some significant narrowing of the gaps we still have a long haul ahead of us.

Success starts at home! Children are a product of their environment, so give your children the roots to grow, and wings to fly!

What Do You Most Want to Hide? - Discussions - Momster

What Do You Most Want to Hide? - Discussions - Momster

9.10.10

R & R

Today I stayed in the house and just rested, I cleaned a little bit, but for the most part I just rested. I feel so drained, physically and mentally. I have been very busy at work, and home has had its share of mayhem too. My husband took the kids out for a little bit to the market, and I took a hot shower and layed in my bed with a hot cup of tea and a "Real Simple" magazine. When I'm feeling dumpy I like to read things that have alot simplicity, It makes me feel balanced for a little while. The magazine does have, great organization tips and good looking recipes. All of which I never use, but it's good to read about(smile). It will probably take me about a week to read it , and by then I will have forgotten most of what I read anyway. I had hoped to hang some wood blinds today too I brought for the kitchen, but that never happened. Oh well maybe tomorrow. I'll have to see how I'm feeling when I wake up. I just might want to lay around all day again.

8.10.10

Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe!!!

Starbucks bill too high! Well check out a recipe for Pumpkin Spice Latte!!! Which is my all time fall fav!!

Pumpkin Spice Latte
makes 1-2 servings

Ingredients:
2 cups milk
2 tablespoons canned pumpkin OR 1 teaspoon of Torani Pumpkin Spice Syrup (your choice)
2 tablespoons sugar or sugar substitute - you can halve this amount
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1-2 shots espresso (about 1/4 cup of espresso or 1/2 cup of strong brewed coffee if you don't have an espresso machine.)

Directions:
In a saucepan combine milk, pumpkin and sugar and cook on medium heat, stirring, until steaming. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and spice, transfer to a blender and process for 15 seconds until foamy. If you don't have a blender, don't worry about it - just whisk the mixture really well with a wire whisk.

Pour into a large mug or two mugs. Add the espresso on top.

Optional: Top with whipped cream and sprinkle pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg, or cinnamon on top.

5.10.10

Remember Me!

Remember when you were the life of the party! then you grow up and all you do is go to work, come home and tend your kids, your spouse, then you wake up and do it all over again day in, and day out and before you know it your whole life is a blur. My sister recently told me that I used to be fun, I just dont know where my knack has gone, I feel so consumed with things that make everyone else happy, that I have lost myself.

3.10.10

Growing Up!!

So yesterday I attended a local high school fair with princess. It seems like not long ago she was walking around asking for her pacifier. It was so much fun just walking through the fair and seeing all the kids so excited about their future. Princess wants to study art, she is actually pretty good. Her goal is to be a fashion stylist. I am so proud of her!!!

22.9.10

Thought of the day!

Everything serves you

The sorrow you endure, makes the joy so much brighter. The relaxation you enjoy, gives you energy to work more effectively. The time apart from a loved one, makes the time together special. Death makes life precious. The heat of summer makes autumn refreshing.

Having to do without something, gives you an appreciation for it. Illness makes good health worth pursuing. Hunger stimulates nourishment.

The things we see as "bad", often make the good things good. How would we know pleasure without pain? With no discomfort, how could we be comfortable? If there were no darkness, what would be the meaning of light? Without ignorance, what would be the value of knowledge.

In every direction, in all situations, life has meaning. Always, there is the opportunity for fulfillment. Rather than cursing the darkness, appreciate the light that it makes possible.

-- Ralph Marston

17.9.10

The mysterious case of "Mr. I Don't Know"

If you have children or a husband then I am sure you have met Mr. I don't Know! He shows up when something wrong has happened, and nobody knows what happened or who did it. So Mr. I Don't Know showed up last night and stuck a RED crayon into the uniform pants of one my two very innocent children wash them and put them in the dryer, and you probably already know what happened next. Well this morning when I took the clothes out of the dryer, everything was covered in melted red crayon. But once again nobody knows who had the red crayon. and technically according to them it's my fault cause I did not check the pockets. With all that said THE MAID IS ON STRIKE!!

16.9.10

Thought of the day!

Painful truth

Truth can be painful. And yet, attempting to avoid the truth will always, ultimately, be much more painful.

Truth can be uncomfortable and unpopular. It can present difficult and complex challenges.

Even so, a dedication to truth is always the best course. For truth, no matter how earnestly it is suppressed, will always have the final say.

Yes, truth can be painful. And the longer it is evaded the more painful it becomes.

Truth can also be infinitely liberating. The effort and pain and discomfort of facing the truth are all very much worth the cost.

It is not always easy to be on the side of truth. Yet there is no escaping the fact that it is always best.

-- Ralph Marston

12.9.10

Reality vs What's Really Real!

Kids today watch way too much reality t v. Most of the shows portray kids whose parents are rich & famous, and they live lavish lifestyles like, My Super Sweet 16, MTV Cribs and Teen Cribs. Then there are some that try and teach teenagers a lesson by showcasing teenagers in tough situations such as, 16 & Pregnant, or Teen Mom. This show follows teen girls who are pregnant at 16 and are struggling with everyday issues like, how do they tell their parents their pregnant, or if they should keep the baby or give it up for adoption, why did they engage in sex before marriage or if they keep the baby will the father of the child remain in their lives. These are issues that the average teen who is watching this show may be able to relate to.

Now let’s take My Super Sweet 16 for instance. The kids on this show give these lavish parties, where their parents are spending crazy amounts of money on cars, hiring top-notch party planners, flying them to Vegas to shop, renting out lavish venues. Then there is Teen Cribs, which showcases the homes of teen celebrities and kids of celebrities. There have been published reports that suggest these people may not even own their homes, and that they are actually renting them. Giving kids false perceptions about their lifestyle. My daughter told my husband and I recently that for her 16th birthday party she wants to arrive in a Black Mercedes May Bach, which costs about $1500 dollars to rent, she wants us to hire several photographers, so they look like paparazzi, she wants a red carpet and she wants all of her friends to scream her name as she exits the car. I tried to explain to her, “that it’s t v, it’s not real”, but then she said, “it’s a reality show, doesn’t that mean it’s real?” No it does not, it’s media hype. Entertainment that’s all! Most of the people on these shows don’t even pay for all that stuff it’s given to them for allowing the network to showcase them on t v, and then some of them do, one lady on Super Sweet 16 took out a second mortgage to pay for a party. Now please tell me why would someone do that. That’s setting another bad example for kids, teaching them how to go into debt to pay for a party to impress others. Parents educate your kids on what is fiction and made for entertainment and what is real. T v is luring our kids into believing what they are seeing is an everyday occurrence. Remind your children that parents are here for love, support, and to provide them with food, shelter, an education and clothing. All wants come with good behavior, respect, and maybe a little loyalty and appreciation. Just because we may not be rich & famous, and have a lavish home, and lot’s of money to shop, we are still blessed with life. Letting them volunteer a day or two helping out in a soup kitchen or homeless shelter or something similar may show them how good they have it compared to the less unfortunate.

10.9.10

Friday night, sipping wine, watching a movie, listening to my husband talk about work, writing this blog, telling my son how much I love him, texting my daughter telling her to come home from a friends house, telling her to be safe! Isn't a mother just grand. I think we invented the word multitask!

Soccermom!!

8.9.10

Are tattoos becoming a fad!

Fad: A phenomenon that becomes popular for a very short time.

Tattoo: The fad will fade, but the ink lasts forever.

Two teenagers recently told me that all the NBA players and hot rappers like Lil Wayne and Young Jeezy have tattoos. These kids think having tattoos are cool, because people they idolize have them. Everyone will not grow-up to be a pro-ball player or a rapper. What about the kid who will grow-up to be a financial advisor or a lawyer? Although it’s bad to stereotype, some people might not think it’s cool to be represented in court by a lawyer who has the word THUG LIFE tattooed on his neck or knuckles. Or some fortune 500 companies may not want to hire the young man who graduated top of his class and has an MBA from Stanford, just because of a tattoo he got when he was an adolescent. If you are going to get tattoos, here’s a word of advice: they should be tasteful and strategically located where they cannot be seen during a business merger or a job interview.


I am not against someone getting a tattoo; I am against someone under the age of 18 having one. In most states including Pennsylvania, which is where I reside, you have to be 18 years old to obtain a tattoo without parental consent. So would someone please explain how teenagers under the age of 18 are getting tattoos? For instance, my daughter who is only 13, told me that one of her classmates just got a tattoo at a tattoo party, which is where a tattoo artist comes to your house and charges half what a tattoo parlor would to tattoo your guests. They don’t ask for ID, so it’s easy for young teens to attend these events and be tattooed without parental consent. My concerns would be whether the person is licensed. Who is liable if something were to go wrong? Is the tattoo artist using sterile needles?


Teenagers getting tattoos, with or without parental permission, can lead to some serious unhappiness down the road, which is exactly where teenagers are incapable of seeing. Most teenagers are not good at setting priorities, so they don't realize that priorities change, and often with surprising regularity. Make sure your teenager is aware of the health risks involved with getting a tattoo, such as infections and blood borne diseases from unsterilized needles. Try compromising with your teenager; ask him or her to wait six months (since teenagers change their minds like the wind). If they still think they want a tattoo at that time you can revisit the idea.

Fads will come and go, so be careful in choosing permanent things that could effect your long-term goals or decisions.

Caffeine & Kids!!

Caffeine is a drug that is naturally produced in the leaves and seeds of many plants. A drug you say, if that is so, than why do so many of us take this drug.
Almost every young child & teen consumes caffeine everyday. Caffeine is in tea, coffee, chocolate, soft drinks, over-the-counter medicines, and popular energy drinks. Children and teens love soft drinks too (soda), which also contain caffeine, it’s tasty; it comes in different flavors, cola, fruit punch, orange, pineapple, and ginger ale. We drank it at bbq’s, at restaurants, we serve it at birthday parties. Some parents even allow their kids to drink a cold cup, bottle or can of it after they have played outside in the hot sun. Which is very unhealthy, because caffeine is a diuretic, which can cause constant urination, which could possibly lead to dehydration. Children need water after being outside for long periods of time.

Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, causing an energy boost. Some older teens will drink energy drinks, such as redbull or coffee, so that they can stay up to study for an important test or exam. This is not healthy, especially if a teen has already had a full day of school, work, and after-school activities in which they need to rest afterwards.

In it’s natural form, caffeine tastes very bitter. Which is why most people don’t drink coffee black. It’s camouflaged with lots other things to improve the taste. Like, cream & sugar. In most coffee houses, they offer coffee in many different forms, lattes w/ whip cream, cappuccinos, non-fat or low-fat, w/ soy milk etc. Sounds very tasty, but if you notice most of the camouflages have sugar. Which if consumed regularly causes childhood obesity, tooth decay, and cavities. Many parents believe that it also increases hyperactivity in children. Then why is it that the new trend is to see small children & teens in your local starbucks? If everything served in there is bad for all of us including children. I have to admit that I to will bring my children to starbucks and the bookstore café’s as well, but we usually order some of their healthier choices. Like, the Horizon Organic Milk Box (like a juice box, but milk). I on the other hand have coffee, and lots of it.



Caffeine is usually safe in moderate amounts. Teens should try and limit caffeine consumption to 100mg per day. Drink water or sports drinks such as Gatorade after sports. Young children should have less than 100mg per day; they should also drink water or low-fat soymilk with healthy snacks like fruits and veggies.

The old wise saying goes, “if you teach your children healthy habits while young, they will continue to have healthy habits into adulthood.”

7.9.10

The dangers of teen driving!

Each year thousands of people die in an accident caused by distracted teen drivers. Eleven states have put a ban on texting while driving. Alcohol –related accidents among teens have dropped and distracted-driving accidents are on a rise

Nearly nine in ten teenage drivers have engaged in distracted driving behaviors such as texting or talking on a cell phone. In an on-line survey of nearly 2,000 teens ages 16-19 found that 84% were aware that distracted-driving behaviors increase their crash risk. Another distracted-driving behavior is driving with multiple people in the car. This is a distraction because passengers tend to talk loud, or adjust the radio multiple times. Also the driver may want to show off for their friends and drive above the speed limit, which can also lead to a dangerous crash or a speeding ticket.


A Parent’s worst nightmare is for their kids to turn 16 and get their drivers license. Their cell phones, the radio, or their friends who may be along for the ride can easily distract teenagers while they are driving. The good news is most teens do not pass their driving test on the first try. This allows for a little more practice on becoming a safe driver. The top 4 reasons for not passing a driving test is:

1. Trying to adjust the radio.
2. Forgetting to put on a seatbelt.
3. Answering or looking at your cell phone.
4. Not utilizing both hands on the steering wheel.


Insurance companies may increase premiums once a teenager has been added to the policy due to fact he/she has no driving experience. Once they have a good driving record after a certain time frame the premium will decrease. In Pennsylvania a teenager must have their permit for 6 months before he/she is eligible to take their driving test.


Influential people like television talk show host Oprah Winfrey, and high schools that teach drivers education have begun to educate young drivers about the dangers of such distractions. Parents should practice safe driving at all times so their teenager can see first hand how important it is to be safe.

24.8.10

Some of my random thoughts 8/25!

1. Does having a glass of wine each day make you an alcoholic?

2. Didmy kidz have a great 1st day of school today?

3. Why did I eat that pizza for dinner last night?

4. What will we eat for dinner tonite?

5. Did my husband fold those clothes?

6. Is it time to go home yet?

Thoughts!!
Soccermom!!

13.8.10

Suffering Mother/Wife

So last night I'm running around like crazy, washing clothes, drying clothes, folding clothes, and packing clothes, Oh and I made a trip to target, old navy, and kohl's, because my forgetful self only brought princess one bathing suit at the beginning of summer, so I had run around to a few stores before I was able to find someplace that even still had them. My kids as i mentioned before are leaving tomorrow for a week. I feel like I ran a marathon last night, and the whole time my husband is sitting there watching the SOPRANOS for the umptenth time, and every so often he would say, "You need me to do anything?", and of course what do I say, "no it's ok, I'm fine" Of course I don't need you now, because it's all done you idiot. Why do wives/mothers suffer so much, because we never want anyone else to help, because we know deep down they can't do it like you would.

Soccermom!!

10.8.10

The evening comes and you wonder to yourself, "oh gosh please don't let the morning come too soon"

Soccermom!!

Missing Kids!

My children will be going away for 7 whole days soon, and someone asked me the other day will I miss them, or will I cry. Is it sad to say NO!! if it is then I will just say, maybe I'll miss them a little bit!

Soccermom!

4.8.10

Remember the song that all the little kids sing in daycare, about cleaning-up. It goes clean-up,clean-up everybody clean-up!! Well how come the kids will clean-up at school, but they never want to clean-up at home. My kids leave food crumbs and their plates on the kitchen table, and then when you say something to them, their famous line is, "oh I forgot". and they leave their rooms a mess too, and when they see you in there cleaning up, that's when they come in and say, "oh I was going to do that", UUURRGGHH!!! these crazy kids, are going to be the death of me.

Soccermom!!

31.7.10

It's the little things!

I am so corny, when it comes to what really matters to me. It's the little things that matter the most to me. Today I spent some much needed quality time with some of my family at an area hotel. And all we really did was just hang at the pool and eat pizza, but that's all I need to make me happy!

Soccermom!!

21.7.10

Anxiety!!

I am feeling so much anxiety right now urrrghhh!! Why you ask, oh because my kids go back to school in like 4 weeks, and as usual I am not prepared!!

Soccermom!!

15.7.10

Staycation vs Vacation!!

No doubt about it I would rather do a real vacation! Cause staycations suckie!!

Soccermom!!

6.7.10

Things We Do For Our KIds!!

Since the weekend it has been 95 degrees and above, yesterday it was 100. Now please tell me why we were not in the house under the AC watching lifetime movies all day. Because myself, my husband, my sister and a friend of ours were all out at some water park burning in the hot sun. Just to please our spoiled children and be the best parents we can be. Even if it means my husband getting sunburn, because he didn't want to put on sunscreen!! Then to top it all off, my son (the baby) woke up w/ an attitude this morning because his dad promised him dunkin donuts, well needless to say my husband woke up late today and was not able to get the donuts prior to him going to work. Again another dumb thing we do for our kids! Parents please stop doing DUMB STUFF FOR YOUR KIDS!!

Soccermom!!

29.6.10

Summer Job!

So princess has a summer job watching her brother and cousin. Already she is spending the money in her head. Why do kids think the least amount of money makes them instantly rich! I tried to explained to her the importance of saving her money(although I don't really practice what I preach all the time, I say it cause it sounds like the right thing.)but anyway, she is not trying to hear that right now, all she wants to do is go to the mall. I can't really fault her for it either, because when I was her age, I wanted to do the same thing, but now I have bills!


Soccermom!!

25.6.10

Day Off!!

Today is Friday, and I have the day off! But really I don't, I still woke up early started a load laundry, picked up some toys, logged onto to my work e-mail dreading that everything doesn't go wrong since I am not in the office. and to top it all off, I only have decaf coffee in the house. Hopefully I will perk up around noon when I have to take my kids to see Toy Story!!


Soccermom!!

22.6.10

Costumes!

Why do children find the need to constantly walk around the house old costumes. Halloween was months ago, and now it's like really small, and unflattering, and I don't feel like playing batman,gi joe, or some ninja when I get home from work. Please parents dispose of your kids old costumes!


Soccermom!!

13.6.10

When children use bad words!

As parents we often use bad words during times of frustration, such as, being stuck in traffic, when our children(husbands) are getting on my nerves, when our car breaks down, if our favorite team loses etc. I could sit here all day and name a hundred things, but you get my point. So why is it when our children use them it's the worst thing in the world, and we always say to them, "where did you hear those words, don't ever let me hear you say that again" Why always the double standards with parents. I mean just because they are children doesn't mean they can't get frustrated, and show their emotions! Now correct me if I'm wrong, but do we, or do we not tell our children to use their words.


Soccermom!!

11.6.10

Eclipse!!

I so cannot wait to see Eclipse 6/30!!

Is it ok to be vain?

Yesterday princess had to go across the street to a friend's house just to ask her a question. So she is upstairs for like a half hour, and finally she comes downstairs w/ like a whole matching set on, sweet smelling lotion and her hair combed out. When she left my husband says that she is too stuck on herself, and what can we do to break her out of the habit of wanting to look her best at all times. Well somebody around here needs to look good, cause it sure isn't me! I think it's normal for girls her age to want to look nice, I did once upon a time before I had kids, worked a real job and decided to get married and lose my self esteem(lol) I'd rather she'd looked like a girl than a girl who wants to look like a boy!


Soccermom!!

Should women drive?

I am a firm believer that whenever you and your husband, boyfriend, fiance' etc., are out together, he should be the one to drive. Now in my case my husband nags alot about my driving, he thinks women by nature are not good driver's. I hate that whenever I drive, he acts like he has brakes on the passenger side. So whenever we are together I make him drive just so I can ride in peace.


Soccermom!!

Kimpton Hotels: June 2010 Newsletter

Kimpton Hotels: June 2010 Newsletter

7.6.10

9 more days of school!!!!

Summer Sangria Recipe!!

Something lite to enjoy when you put the kiddies to bed. Sit out on your patio, you and your hubby and watch the sunset!!


White Wine Sangria with Summer Peaches, Strawberries, Oranges and Lemons
1 pint strawberries , hulled and halved lengthwise
2 oranges , sliced into 1/4-inch-thick rings
2 lemons , sliced into 1/4-inch-thick rings
3 peaches , pitted and cut into 8 wedges
3 bottles white wine (dry to semidry), such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay
1 liter sparkling water
Ice
Directions:

Place all fruit in a large pitcher or bowl, add wine and allow to sit at room temperature 4 to 24 hours. When ready to serve, add sparkling water and ice. Serve in a bowl with a ladle (make sure there's fruit in every serving).
Why is that whenever I send my husband to the store, he always forgets something. What was the purpose of him demanding a list. And his favorite line is, "oh they didn't have that." And explain to me why if he has been to the store multiple times, he always calls asking what aisle something is in! And another thing why are men so scared to use a coupon, I mean that just totally blows me away. He will be first one complaining at the end of the month, when there is only a little bit of extra cash leftover after the bills are paid, and I will remind him that he should have used those coupons!

Soccermom!!
Click on link below for summer reading for ages:
Infant-12 years and older!!



http://www.oprah.com/packages/kid-reading-list.html

3.6.10

Fun Finger Foods

Please click on the link below for wonderful Fun Finger Foods for your toddlers!


http://www.parents.com/toddlers-preschoolers




Soccermom!!

2.6.10

Toy Story 3!

I am so excited about Toy Story 3, but deep down I hope this is the last one. I mean really this kid should have stopped playing with toys a long time ago. And did you see the previews for it, there is a Ken & Barbie doll. If my memory serves me correctly the kid in the movie is a boy right. Ok I know that's wrong, but really I'm sure I am not the only one thinking it.

Soccermom!!

28.5.10

Summer Camp!

Why is summer camp so freaking expensive! I mean really some of these places are charging like half a mortgage per week per kid. And they make it sound real nice too, some of them have pics of kids on the front of the brochure doing all this cool stuff, like volleyball, soccer, swimming,but when it starts, your kid comes home everyday like "we made popsicle stick houses all day, and watched a movie"(YAY!!). Come on, seriously this is stuff they could do at grandmoms house for free, but instead of watching movies, you get to see grandmom's soap opera's and Oprah!!

Soccermom!!

27.5.10

Standardized Tests Suckie!

Most student's score proficient or basic on a standardized test given by whichever state the student attends school in. In some cases the material on the test has never been taught to the student. So why is it that a student who repeatedly makes honor roll, have to attend summer school.Why should some stupid test that a child didn't have time to prepare for determine what type of student you are. That's why I should home school my kids(sike!)

Soccermom!!
Now call me cheap if you want to, but I have been digging on Mcdonald's coffee for like a month and a half. It's like a dollar for a medium, and it's pretty darn good. I pay like close to $4 for a grande(medium) at starbucks or one of the little swanky coffee spots, and sometime it's not all that great, and besides that it's too strong some days and you feel like your running on speed til like noon. I already have enough anxiety on a daily basis, on my own, I don't need anything extra to add to that.

Soccermom!!

26.5.10

I love, love, love TV. I have been trying to keep up with the show Brother's & Sister's(ABC) and Ghost Whisperer(CBS I think) so I joined netflix so that I could watch the first couple of season's since both shows have been on since forever. But I have been so busy(what else is new) that I haven't even been able to watch them. My point is why do people waste so much money!!

Soccermom!!
Why is it no matter how many times you tell your children that they won't get into trouble if they tell the truth,they still turn around and lie to your face anyway, and then when they get caught, they say "what did I do"..UGH!that irks me. My teenage daughter thinks I'm an idiot. GOD PLEASE HELP ME!!

Soccermom!!

25.5.10

Ok, so what have I been up to. Let's see, princess & the baby have both joined a tennis clinic to learn how to play the sport, that's going ok I guess. The baby turned 7 (YAY!!) and he is still up my a@#(just like his father is with his mother). I hosted a sleepover w/ my son and three nephews this Sat. Let me tell ya, boys are a danger to themselves and everyone around them (lol). When princess used to have sleepovers, we played dress-up and ate pizza all night! My husband and I are getting along, not every day but most days we like each other. I so can't wait for school to be over, I know school is where they learn, but sometimes they ask questions or say stuff and I'm like wtf!!! I don't remember go ask your father. Anywhoo...talk to ya soon!!

Soccermom!!

9.3.10

For my next date night, I would like to go to a BYOB. I hear they have the best food. It's always nice to go eat at places other than chain restaurants. Although I have to say that some chain places are great too, like;
Carrabas
California Pizza Kitchen
Pf Changs

These are just some of my favs!!!

I LOVE TOO EAT!!!

Soccermom!!
Saturday was a busy, busy day. Activities in the morning, breakfast w/ the hubby while we waited for the kidz, b-day party (at the zoo!) in the afternoon, and then off to the movies to see "alice in wonderland" w/ kidz while my husband went to see "brooklyn's finest"(a grown-up movie) alone. The things we do as parents.



Soccermom!!

3.3.10

My son's school bus never showed up today, so I had to get in my car (UUURRGH!!) and take him to school. Now I am not sure exactly what happened, but I need some answers. Hopefully the bus will show up tomorrow so I can speak directly to the bus driver, cause when you call the bus company they never answer the phone. What else is new, oh I pulled out my handy dandy crock-pot or as I like to call it "cooking the easy way for a working wife and mother".(cute!!) My husband hates things that are cooked in the crock-pot, he says the meat is always soggy, and then he eats almost the whole thing. He just wants to see me work all day, come home and slave over a stove. I think he gets some type of satisfaction out of it.

Soccermom!!

26.2.10

Fridays!!

I just love Friday, it's my favorite day of the week. To me it symoblizes the end of sometimes a tough, or rough week and the beginning of something great. Those two days where you don't have to be "AT WORK" dealing with "WORK", and the all of the things that come along with "WORK". Don't get me wrong I absolutely love, love my job, but there are some days where it's a doosey. So HAPPY FRIDAY!!! time to get plastered.(for those of us who are into that..lol)

Soccermom!!

24.2.10

Dating Your Spouse!!

By all means go on a date with your spouse. I recommend at least twice a month if you have children, and once or twice a week if you don't have children. My husband and I spend so much time with our kids, that just going to the grocery store for an hour w/o them is considered a date to us(pretty pathethic). We really get excited when we go to dinner, or to the movies, and sometimes we get to stay at area hotels overnight boy is that fun!!! So stay connected to your spouse(I know that's not as easy as it sounds). Smile every once in a while, and don't forget to ask "how was your day", it's the little things that count.

Soccermom!!!

23.2.10

HGTV!!! love,love this station, and no matter how much I watch their shows, I still feel like my house is no where near as nice as some of the homes they decorate. No matter how much I like some of the design concepts, and I say to myself "oh that would look nice in my living room, or my bedroom" I always freeze up when I go shopping for housewares. I think my issue is, hmmmm I forgot. Anyway watch HGTV to get great ideas...


Soccermom!!!

The Blues!!!

You ever have "the blues". It's When your a little down and you can't understand why. (ladies this is totally different from PMS). Today, I have "the blues"

Soccermom!!

21.2.10

So I am currently at Starbucks w/ my son waiting for his activity to start and my daughter's to finish. This will be our normal Sunday routine for about a month, then on to the next new thing. Why does it seems as if everyone and their mother is here today. This place is packed. I think people come in to use their free internet.(lol). I can't see how this place is suffering from our economic downfall. Cause we all know that the items in here aren't cheap. I often wonder how much Starbucks makes in one day...So moving on, my anniversary is tomorrow YAY!!! we made it through another year w/o me killing him(lol). I love my husband(i think...smile) No for real he is genuinely a nice man...I couldn't have asked god for anyone better...


Soccermom!!!

17.2.10

Princess had swim class last night. No not for a team, but for actual lessons. She is 13 I don't why I waited so long to teach her to swim but as we all know I am far from perfect. The best mother's are the ones who sometimes mess up like me.(smile) So anyway she has been taking this class for like three weeks and she is actually pretty good, she picked up on the basic stuff fast. But please explain to me if for the last three weeks you have been putting on your bathing suit before we leave the house(just in case we are running late for class,which we were) why would you not put on your bathing suit this time. I'll tell you why she was so busy txting someone or in the mirror for 20 mins. looking at herself while she was changing that she forgot. Those kids and their father will be the death of me.

Soccermom!!

15.2.10

Valentine's Day!!! Why such the hype. My husband and I say I LOVE U everyday (well sometimes, ahhh ok mostly like once a week). Why do people spend so much money on stupid gifts like, chocolate(makes u fat), ballons(which deflate), teddy bears(that scare u when u awake in the middle of the night). We normally take our kids out to eat w/ us, cause they are at that age where they think it's something special, but we didn't even do that this year. I cooked!!!! yea, and I even prepared it before I took the baby to an activity....KUDOS!!! for me...

Soccermom!!!

11.2.10

Aren't(is that a word!) all women procrastinator's by nature(normal ones like me anyway). I often wonder how people have time to wash, fold & put away clothes in one day. I wash clothes on Sunday, dry them on Monday night, and on Friday I am still digging in that same basket for clean clothes.

Soccermom!

8.2.10

Winter!!


Don't you just love winter.
NO!!!! We recieved 28.5 inches of snow this weekend. I watched so much t.v., I think I might keep it off for the rest of the week!!! I should have been cleaning my house, since I had so much time on my hands, but that's in a prefect world. Which I do not live in, so my house is still a mess from the previous week. It felt so good to not have to get up on Sat. or Sun. and take Princess and The Baby to any of their activities, I just layed around all day in my pjs and my robe, eating everything that wasn't nailed down. GOOD TIMES!!!!
Soccermom!!

5.2.10


Last night we had parent teacher conference at my daughter's school, she's in 7th grade. She did good all A's &B's. Now I'm not one to brag about my kids, cause it took alot of blood, sweat, and tears for her to achieve those grades. Not every child is built to be a genius and just excel in everything. I hate those parents who come to this events and ask the same question. How was your child's report card? None of your bizzness is what I want to say, but I always reply with the same answer "It was good", and I leave it at that. But you get some parents who are like, "Oh my son/daughter's report was great, he/she is an honor student, the teacher's all love him/her. Like please give me a break!!!! Your child is really no better than the next kid. My husband and I always try to tell our kids to their best and you will succeed at anything you put your heart into.


Soccermom!

4.2.10

Why is that the "PERFECT PATTIES" of the world say you should put your income tax refund in the bank for your children's college. Where is it written that you have to share everything with them. I already share my entire paycheck every other week with them. I'm sorry they gets no parts of my income tax refund check. Besides I have made sure as a mother that they are a "LITTLE" smart so they can hopefully get a full scholarship to college. I want to spend my savings traveling so my husband and I can go to exotic places that are not kid appropiate.

Soccermom!
okay so this morning we were running late as usual cause my husband slept on the wrong side of the bed, and overslept. It's always his fault, cause he needs to be up on time since he is the first one to leave in the morning. Wouldn't you all agree? So anyway I'm telling Princess & The Baby that we have to hurry up cause we are running late. So I go in Princesses room after about 20 minutes, and instead of getting dressed she is in there on the floor sorting through her dresser to find an appropiate outfit for tommorow since they are having dress down day. Now I don't understand what part about "WE ARE RUNNING LATE" she didn't understand. I says to her why are you doing this now, you can take care of this later in the evening. Needless to say she walked out the door with her lips poked out like she does most mornings cause I ruined her day.

Soccermom!

3.2.10

okay, so I think I getting the hang of this blog site. It only took me 45 minutes to post one pic.lol