tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90895981638549916252024-03-05T21:16:05.971-05:00The Allison ShowAll things AllisonAllisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.comBlogger318125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-48539102023804889742012-07-06T03:00:00.000-04:002012-07-06T03:00:15.704-04:00Foodie Friday: Garlic Herb BreadI love really good, artisian bread {Hello, Carbs!} which is sometimes hard to find in Sticks, TN. So when I really, really need bread here is my go to recipe. I adapted it and made some changes from a family recipe. <br />
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All you need to make this recipe is a stand mixer {or a hand mixer and a seriously buff arm} and your oven. <br />
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Ingredients:<br />
5 cloves of garlic<br />
2 cups water<br />
1 oz rapid rise yeast<br />
2 tablespoons butter {room temp}<br />
4 teaspoons oregano<br />
4 teaspoons basil<br />
1 1/2 tablespoons salt<br />
1/8 cup of white granulated sugar<br />
1 egg white {room temp}<br />
6 1/2 cups bread flour<br />
1 tablespoon olive oil {to oil the bowl the dough rests in}<br />
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Directions:<br />
Saute 5 cloves of garlic in a little olive oil until they are soft and pale tan - not brown. DJ has a hard time with this step as he likes brown garlic. Set aside to cool. In stand mixer, dump 2 cups lukewarm water and 1 oz {4 little packets} of rapid rise instant yeast. Let that sit til the yeast is dissolved and foamy, about 3-4 minutes. Sometimes I need to stir it to mix in some clumps. Then<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKyGH3dM0bfjK3Lxf811aMaDVEnxoxDgOy4mjbqC-u3biLWh4jrv-N_u_LzBDgSFd1uzH5oEhYC-ObUKS2QrPkYoKfuL-I0uQrdFJS7J4z990G8_1O7KA3AFM2VzY91qxO7YVNQk51WsA/s1600/IMG_0807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKyGH3dM0bfjK3Lxf811aMaDVEnxoxDgOy4mjbqC-u3biLWh4jrv-N_u_LzBDgSFd1uzH5oEhYC-ObUKS2QrPkYoKfuL-I0uQrdFJS7J4z990G8_1O7KA3AFM2VzY91qxO7YVNQk51WsA/s320/IMG_0807.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXvWKwxeJwYYMoKhVSSaOeRhV0nMfBb5hblRwhSlODhPkI_skOrn97JCMhuxGnLxiTHci55KO6Cf1eGlpbmhXgT5acrlvJZLeOTTP7OF4j8EvpfqScgNbHHB6TztrFhHUXM_B1v9eWf4Y/s1600/IMG_0806.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXvWKwxeJwYYMoKhVSSaOeRhV0nMfBb5hblRwhSlODhPkI_skOrn97JCMhuxGnLxiTHci55KO6Cf1eGlpbmhXgT5acrlvJZLeOTTP7OF4j8EvpfqScgNbHHB6TztrFhHUXM_B1v9eWf4Y/s320/IMG_0806.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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How easy is that? A little sauteing, some measuring, and dumping everything in a stand mixer.</div>
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SUPER important. Only turn the mixer on 1!! Unless you and the kitchen want to wear flour, herbs, and yeasty water. </div>
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See you are doing awesome!! Who knew making bread could be so easy!! I didn't until I tried this recipe. Now I feel trully domesticated. ;)</div>
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Don't mind my super gross looking towel. I swear it was clean. I would also like to point out I baked this at work which is why all the pictures are in horrible lighting and on metal surfaces. LOL Now you have an hour to do whatever you wish. Might I suggest a bubble bath? Perhaps a good book and a glass of wine or 2? </div>
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My fave part!! Beating the dough!! Followed by my least fave part: rolling out the dough. You can do a couple of different things at this point. Split dough into 3 loaves and make small round loves for you and friends. Or roll flat {about 1/2 thick} and cut into rectangles {DJ cna get 12 out of the dough}. Then bake in 2 batches in the over and cut and make sadwiches out of each piece. Thats what we do at the shop to make our paninis. Today I went with a giant round loaf and a mini round loaf. Then the BEST part!! Eat it! If do to some strange miracle you have any left after 3-4 days and it is stale, chop it up and throw it in a pan with some butter to make the best croutons ever!! Here is my baby loaf. After I sliced some off to make sure it was edible. ;)<br />
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<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-66953049447535017082012-07-05T16:24:00.000-04:002012-07-05T16:34:14.497-04:00Simpli Stamped Review/GiveawayI love getting to work with other Moms and their businesses. I know how hard it is to work with kids so I try to support Mom owned busniesses whenever I can. I also LOVE jewelry so if you are like me then this post is perfect!! <br />
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Amber is a 30 something mom of two of the best kids ever and owner of <a href="http://simplistamped.com/index.html" target="_blank">Simpli Stamped</a>! In addition to
making jewelry she is an avid photographer and blogger. She loves all things
beautiful and strives to find joy wherever she goes. <br />
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You can find Amber at:<br />
<a href="http://simplistamped.com/" target="_blank">Simpli Stamped</a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SimpliStamped" target="_blank">Facebook</a><br />
<a href="http://simplistamped.com/blog.html" target="_blank">Simpli Stamped Blog</a><br />
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When she gave me the opportunity to review anything in her jewelry shopped I was thrilled!! After looking at all the pieces, I stumbled upon her Custom Work page!! I decided to combine a couple of designs I had seen into the perfect ncklace for me. I asked her to stamp a disk with Choose Joy and include a pearl. Then I had to wait {im}patiently for her to make the necklace and then for USPS to take their sweet time delivering it. But it was so worth the wait!!<br />
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I opened the mailing package and this is what I saw!!<br />
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First, I love teal and brown!! And second I really love business owners who take time with packaging and presentation. Make such a pretty gift as is!! Then I opened it.<br />
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I love it!! I love the pale pink pearl and the way it hangs in the ring. The necklace is the perfect length just about my shirt collar. {apparently I wear low cut shirts LOL}<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj59Fp0dpyjww59k1PcnYfh2opzh8cqVm6KqyF_hFGNxSxvbvxRNWCUN_todmJEql7b8xvKVTUj1CeI4Jxhvum4_mMI92aIfp5pdXX193HFuxOGOjvaZnNCh1RqfiKeYfE_KhpmWt3o7wk/s1600/IMG_0784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj59Fp0dpyjww59k1PcnYfh2opzh8cqVm6KqyF_hFGNxSxvbvxRNWCUN_todmJEql7b8xvKVTUj1CeI4Jxhvum4_mMI92aIfp5pdXX193HFuxOGOjvaZnNCh1RqfiKeYfE_KhpmWt3o7wk/s320/IMG_0784.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Do you love it? Or do you have something different in mind? You can buy your fave piece and save 10% off with coupon code: <span style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: tahoma, geneva, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">ALLISONSHOW</span><span style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: tahoma, geneva, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> {which is </span>good until July 31, 2012}<br />
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Well Amber at Simpli Stamped is also offering one lucky reader the piece of their choice {up to $55}!!! Wanna win?? Go enter!<br />
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/dde39e2/" id="rc-dde39e2" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js">
</script>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-41332570964714070152012-07-04T18:07:00.000-04:002012-07-05T18:13:55.049-04:00Happy 4th of JulyI happen to love the 4th of July!! As our Nation's birthday, it makes me hopeful for our future! We decided that we shoudl have some friends over and BBQ!! My friend Katy brought over her 2 kids and we babysat my friend Michelle's son cause he is afraid of fireworks. Katy had some great party ideas for the 4th! <br />
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We made red, white & blue punch. The secret to the punch is to layer the drink with most sugar on bottom, then the one with a little less, and top with the one with the least suagr. So we used cranberry juice, blue raspberry G2, and diet 7 up. Fill your container with ice and then add the drinks one at a time.<br />
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For the the jello jars. Make blue raspberry jello according to directions and pour into the canning jars. Let set about 30 min. Then make white chocolate instant pudding according to directions and pour that on top. Let set up about 30 minutes again. Then top with raspberry jello and thats it!! Super easy and super fun!! <br />
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For dinner we had BBQ ribs, corn on the cob, macoroni salad, potato salad, and baked beans. YUM!!Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-83476281952396745432012-07-03T17:13:00.000-04:002012-07-05T17:13:29.494-04:00Well I survived my first 2 roller derby practices. I am crazy sore but that is more from the fact that I don't and haven't worked out regularly in like 15 years. Sunday's practice was fun. We learned to fall on one knee and to glide on 1 knee. We started to lean how to get comfortable on skates. We did a bunch of side steps which is really hard to do in skates. We also did TONS of squats which my thighs hate. I learned it is really hard to stand still on skates. I can skate fine but just standing there my skates want to roll. <br /><br />At the end of practice we were doing kicks. Stand on 1 leg and kicking our other leg. Since I am so wobbly, I was mostly just trying to stand still. The girl next to me went to kick and her skate she was standing on slid back and she fell to the ground. She ended up breaking her ankle and needing surgery. YIKES!! But that reminded the trainers to tell us to listen to ourselves and our bodies. If we are sore or need a break take one. And if we know that we can't do something, then it's probably a good idea to attempt it cautiously or try something a step down form that.<br />
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Monday's pratice was hard for a couple reasons<br />
1.) I was sore from Sunday <br />
2.) We did even more squats and planks! <br />
3.) I have no muscles to speak of.<br />
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At least I know as I get in better shape practices will get easier!!Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-79220449950879967712012-06-19T09:50:00.000-04:002012-06-21T14:51:47.164-04:00So there!!Well I just got my email and I made it into the Little City Roller Girls- Fresh Meat Boot Camp!! I'll have practice Sun from 11-2pm and Monday from 6:30-8:30pm. Plus I am HIGHLY recommended to go to open skate Tues and Thursday nights. But we'll see. LOL. I think this will be the push I need to get in shape once and for all.!! Bye baby weight.Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-57202744778452089332012-06-18T14:51:00.000-04:002012-06-21T14:51:30.103-04:00Oh Sh*t..So now that try-outs are tonight, I am kinda scared. LOL I practiced on a pair of roller blades that Blake got at Goodwill for $1 a year ago and I can skate fine... BUT can I really do this? I am sooo not in shape. <br />
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~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Editted after try-outs<br />
<br />
Well it was pretty good. There was 6-7 girls there trying out. 2 were awesome {probably did derby before}, 1 skated pretty good, me, and the rest couldn't really skate {ie didn't know how to glide etc} so I am fairly sure I will make the boot camp. But who knows? LOLAllisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-80713555408415445062012-06-15T14:45:00.000-04:002012-06-21T14:47:53.428-04:00Roller DerbyI saw on Facebook that our local roller derby team is holding tryouts on Monday. They just want to see you skate a few laps and then they teach you a fall. if you "pass" you make it in their Boot Camp program. Then in 3-4 months when you pass Boot Camp, you get on the actual roller derby team!! How fun. Plus it sounds like the perfect way to get in shape and lose baby weight.<br />
<br />
Well I told Hubby and my Dad and they both said:<br />
A- You'll die.<br />
B- You don't know how to skate<br />
C- You are a wuss<br />
D- You are not in shape. At all<br />
E- You haven't been on skates in years. Like 12+ years and then it was roller blades.<br />
<br />
So while these are mostly true statements, nothing makes me want to do something more than by having people tell me I can't. So I am going to try out. Thanks for the support Guys!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrFMcNAOpG7-FuYhw4NR280Xkv_qu66Cwor-iMqgZoVg1TPJ27n_-j7vWhyphenhyphen11YYFCCdF28E8YrOhyphenhyphenWkqpsSpG74jWDg58m3MqQ41_CcxMblg1P7RnXsL6b7H1X08OQXi4dJ7vZs599qY/s1600/derby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrFMcNAOpG7-FuYhw4NR280Xkv_qu66Cwor-iMqgZoVg1TPJ27n_-j7vWhyphenhyphen11YYFCCdF28E8YrOhyphenhyphenWkqpsSpG74jWDg58m3MqQ41_CcxMblg1P7RnXsL6b7H1X08OQXi4dJ7vZs599qY/s320/derby.jpg" width="254" /></a></div>
<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-89005218970919416262012-05-23T12:19:00.000-04:002012-05-23T12:19:42.213-04:00Happy Father's Day from Treat!!<a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=388627&u=632811&m=12808&urllink=&afftrack=" target="_blank"><img alt="Treat Father's Day Greeting Cards" border="0" src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/12808/35236_Treat_Hero_Banner_Fathers_Day.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<div class="yiv15728542MsoNormal" id="yui_3_2_0_1_1337789717453127" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><a _blank"="" href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1337789717_0"></span></a></span><span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1337789717453124" style="font-family: "sans-serif";"> </span></div>
<div class="yiv15728542MsoNormal" id="yui_3_2_0_1_1337789717453127" style="margin: 12pt 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv15728542MsoNormal" id="yui_3_2_0_1_1337789717453127" style="margin: 12pt 0in;">
<span id="yui_3_2_0_1_1337789717453124" style="font-family: "sans-serif";">Between
now and 11:59pm (Pacific Time) tonight you can get a <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=303200&u=632811&m=12808&urllink=&afftrack=" id="yui_3_2_0_1_1337789717453121" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FREE
Father’s Day card from Treat</a>!</span></div>
<div class="yiv15728542MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "sans-serif";">Just use
the code <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=303200&u=632811&m=12808&urllink=&afftrack=" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1337789717_2">TREATDAD</span></a>
and enjoy a free, customized, card. This offer applies to all new and returning
customers.</span></div>
<div class="yiv15728542MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "sans-serif";">Here is
how it works:</span></div>
<div class="yiv15728542MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><span style="font-family: "sans-serif";">You
choose your card from their <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=303200&u=632811&m=12808&urllink=&afftrack=" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hundreds
of Father’s Day designs</a>.</span></div>
<div class="yiv15728542MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><span style="font-family: "sans-serif";">Personalize
it with photos, nicknames, inside jokes, whatever you want to add. This is your
chance to make it YOUR card. Be creative. Be funny. Be sappy. Make dad laugh,
cry, or just smile.</span></div>
<div class="yiv15728542MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><span style="font-family: "sans-serif";">Use
the code <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=303200&u=632811&m=12808&urllink=&afftrack=" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TREATDAD</a>
to get this special deal. (Note: This offer is good all customers, whether this
is your first time or 100<sup>th</sup> time using Treat).</span></div>
<div class="yiv15728542MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "sans-serif";">Treat
will truly brighten your day…and your dad’s! So <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=303200&u=632811&m=12808&urllink=&afftrack=" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check
them out now</a> and take advantage of this awesome offer!</span></div>
<div class="yiv15728542MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "sans-serif";">Note: You
can choose the “Send it to me first” shipping option to receive the card free.
If you choose “Mail it directly to the recipient,” you will be charged $0.44
for postage. Limit one per household. You will also be asked for their credit
card to verify your identity and prohibit fraud, but you will not be charged
for a free card if you mail to yourself.</span></div>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-76693935841577390062012-05-08T09:35:00.000-04:002023-04-29T04:26:06.861-04:00Couponing with Katy: Part 1<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"> This is the first in a multi-part series on couponing!! </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">They will be guest posted by Katy of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Frugal-Chicks-Katy-Heather-and-Brandi/178469452188179" target="_blank">The Frugal Chicks.</a> I will also be posting some info about organizing your coupons and the different binder/organizers out there. </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Enjoy!! ~Allison</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"> Change the way you menu plan, grocery shop,
the way you eat, get ready for a NEW outlook on the grocery store!</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">~ No more late afternoon runs to the grocery store to get what you need
for dinner</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">~ No more weekly menu with its accompanying list of groceries to be
purchased regardless of price</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">~ No More Huge monthly Shopping trips</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">~ No more wholesale club size Mustard to store somewhere...</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">~ No more running out of dish detergent, toilet paper, paper towels and
spending a fortune on them.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Get ready for using coupons to buy items and stock
piling when items are at the lowest price point. Someone loose a job? Lose some extra income? No problem! Your stock pile will keep you
going for some time. Menu plan on what
it is on sale and in your freezer. You
will learn to shop, be organized when shopping, and save $$ in your pocket! So let's get started with where to find
coupons....</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Once you get started couponing, you will start noticing them
everywhere... </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">And so will your children. My kids
will go MOM it's a coupon ohhhhh and come running with them in their hands. Start ‘em young is what I say!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Places to find coupons:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">1. Inserts from your
local newspaper or an insert company</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">2. Printable Coupons</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">3. Peelies, Catalina's,
tear pads, and blinkies</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">4. Facebook,
Manufacture sites, in store promotions</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">5. All You Magazine</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">So let's start with talking about #1 Inserts. Inserts can be found in
your Sunday paper (sometimes weekly papers also). There are three different
inserts that come out on a regular basis: Smart Source (SS), Red Plum (RP) and
Procter & Gamble (PG). I always suggest buying 4 papers’ so that you have multiple coupons for awesome deals like free deodorant, razors, toothpaste,
etc.You can always to subscribe to your local paper. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">I have read many theories into what makes one newspaper's inserts
better... Some suggest its cost of living for the area, hence why many extreme
couponers tend to order West Coast Inserts while living on the east coast. You
can also order online from various insert companies. One I have used is <a href="http://www.madcoupons.net/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: none;">www.MadCoupons.net</span></a> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;">#2. Printable coupons</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;">Printing coupons from your home computer is safe,
free and easy! The first time you print from any source, you’ll be required to
download quick and safe software so that you can print securely from home.
After the software is installed, printing coupons is just a click away! Most
only allow you to print twice per IP address. I tend to print what it will
allow me too. (You’re saving up for a big sale) Some sites to check out are:</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-3462033-10415416" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: none;">Coupons.com</span></a></span><br />
<a href="http://coupons2.smartsource.com/smartsource/index.jsp?Link=5S2ZUA6PWPEPO" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: none;">Smart Source</span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://coupons.redplum.com/offers/default.aspx?Id=LivingRichWithCoupons&DefaultZipCode=" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: none;">Red Plum</span></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.livingrichwithcoupons.com/couponnetwork" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: none;">Coupon Network</span></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.livingrichwithcoupons.com/targetprintable" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: none;">Target Coupons</span></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">3. Peelies, Catalina’s, Blinkies, Tear pads:</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Catalina: They are coupons that print out at the register after your sale
is complete. It is a separate machine that is just for printing out coupons or
dollars off. Sometimes abbreviated as “CAT”, Catalina coupon machines located
at register dispense long receipt-like coupons that may be used on a future
purchase. Catalina’s, refer to the coupons themselves which may be manufacturer
or store coupons. Some Catalina coupons are advertised and some are generated
based on consumer behavior.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">To find out what Catalina's or sometimes called "Your Bucks"
are in your stores/area, go here: <a href="http://www.couponnetwork.com/yourbucks-catalina-coupons" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: none;">Catalina's</span></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Blinkie: (Red Smart Source machines in a lot of stores).Manufacturer
coupons dispensed by coupon machines found in grocery aisles next to products.
Recognize them by the blinking red light. Dispenses coupons one at a time in
intervals. Manufacturer blinkie coupons may be redeemed at any store, not
necessarily the store in which you found them. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Tearpad: Coupon pads located in stores to promote products. Tear pad
manufacturer coupons may be used at any store, not just the one where you found
the coupon.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Peelie: Adhesive manufacturer coupons found on products in the store.
Peelies are often good on a wider selection of products than the one it is
stuck to. Be sure to read the fine print on the peelie to discover if the
coupon may be used on a smaller size or different variety of the same product,
to allow you to maximize savings.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">4. Facebook, texts, manufactures sites, in store promotions, rebates:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">If you haven't noticed all the manufacturer's offering special deals and
coupons on Facebook, what Rock have you been hiding under? As I stated earlier
you will start to notice coupons everywhere. We post coupons like this as soon
as we spot them on our Facebook page. Manufacture sites also have coupons to
print (we post these too). P&G has
a site where you can sign up to get coupons mailed to you every quarter, with
some great deals inside.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Another great way to get high value coupons is rebates, where you send in
a receipt, and you get a coupon book back. Sometimes Stores have in store
promos where you can taste a product and get a coupon.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">5. All You Magazine is a wonderful magazine you can pick up at Wal-Mart
or subscribe to that is chock full of coupons every month. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHUeng-E9ojgw6b0B1RhB6r-Qh94zsmQJBPFuKUcHnByh7YfRvFJxM5yaLJ2nIUykNbk_rN1-or-TLyQYLGy7AAwTxMy9qrMiKlncviz4iANgJcoDuqTnvC0bE_XZldrgz-9MlXwLTC_M/s1600/katy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHUeng-E9ojgw6b0B1RhB6r-Qh94zsmQJBPFuKUcHnByh7YfRvFJxM5yaLJ2nIUykNbk_rN1-or-TLyQYLGy7AAwTxMy9qrMiKlncviz4iANgJcoDuqTnvC0bE_XZldrgz-9MlXwLTC_M/s320/katy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Katy is a 30 something mom
of 3 who loves coupons, meal planning, and feeding her family healthy, natural,
and organic for as cheap as possible. She has one daughter who suffers from
numerous food allergies, and a son with autism. It took a revolution for her to
figure out that what they eat affects them a LOT. She has been using coupons
since she was a teenager, but just recently started the big stores like CVS, Walgreens
etc. She was taught how to coupon by her great aunts who are now 90 and 98 and
continue to shop Only on Weds at Kroger. Katy has a blog at <a href="http://totallyrandomkaty.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">http://totallyrandomkaty.blogspot.com/</span></a> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-58399803379284539292012-04-26T10:01:00.003-04:002012-07-05T14:32:56.999-04:00Book Review: A Secret WishTitle: A Secret Wish<br />
Author: Barbara Freethy <a href="http://www.barbarafreethy.com/" target="_blank">http://www.barbarafreethy.com/</a><br />
<br />
Description: Three women, three birthdays and one unforgettable night that will change their lives forever. One
night in San Francisco, three women make a birthday wish believing it
can't possibly come true. Three women, three birthdays and a night of events that connects them in unexpected ways ...<br />
<br />
I absolutely loved this book!! As a woman who just turned the big 3-0, I really connected to all main characters, who are all turning a milestone birthday on the same day. <br />
<br />
Liz is turning thirty. She is a nurse but is lacking in the love department. She is not a risk taker and because of that keeps settling for jerky, "safe" boyfriends. Will she ever have that crazy, amazing love?<br />
<br />
Angela is turning 35 and wants a baby. But after failed attempts at in-vetro, will she have to give up her dream of being a mom?<br />
<br />
Carole is turning 40 and realizes that even though she appears to have it all she is deeply unhappy. She is a wife to a politician, has tons of money, and two kids. But her life is lacking so she she goes back to her roots to find out how she got so lost.<br />
<br />
All 3 women, separately, decide to make a crazy, unrealistic wish. They rest of the book is the journey these women go on and how they all manage to get their wish.<br />
<br />
This is a great short novel, to remind us all that if we are unhappy, we are the only ones who can change it. We must not be content to watch our life go by, we need to be living it. This book c ame out in Jan 2012 and book 2 in the wish series is called Just a Wish Away and comes out this spring.<br />
<br />Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-13472355416767516182012-04-24T15:29:00.003-04:002012-04-24T15:36:06.861-04:00The "Mommy" Wars It seems like the last month or so, all I "hear" about online is "Mommy" Wars. * Breastfeeders VS. Bottle Feeders. *SAHM VS Working Moms. *"Veteran" Moms VS New Moms. *Cloth Diapering VS Disposables. *Moms VS Women who choose to not Procreate. When did parenting become a sport? It has even boiled over into Women VS Women. Can't we all just get along? Why do we as women feel the need to not only belittle each other but see it as socially acceptable?<br />
<br />
I was reading <a href="http://thebloggess.com/" target="_blank">The Bloggess</a> the other day and saw that she had been on CNN, to talk about the Hillary Rosen/Ann Romney dispute. Which I actually think it is kind of funny. If you haven't heard {cause who has time to watch the news when you have kids?} Mitt Romney has been saying "well my wife thinks this is economically important to woman or my wife says this about the economy..." To which Hilary Rosen said "What does Ann Romney know about the economy? She has never worked a day in her life" Now being a SAHM is a lot of work so Hilary never should have said that but my thought is really what do any politicians know about us Americans? MOST come from old money, and have never worked a real job {I'm talking McDonald's here not working as a Senator.. Just saying} When have they ever had to worry about making ends meet? But I digress. WOMEN STOP BASHING EACH OTHER TO MAKE YOUR HUSBANDS LOOK BETTER!!!!<br />
<br />
I see all these posts about "Tips for First Time Moms" and "What to expect After the Hospital" and guess what they are all a load of BS!! Here is the only thing first time Moms need to know: <span style="background-color: yellow;">Do whatever works for you!</span> And don't feel guilty if your original plan doesn't work. Breast feed if that works if not use formula and bottles. My first 3 kids were bottle fed, my last 2 were breastfed 10 months and 2+ years. Which was better? Depends. There are pros and cons to both. Breastfeeding can be extremely painful for the first few months but it is so nice to be able to roll over and feed the baby instead of getting up and making a bottle. But it is a pain to pump and have bottles if you want to go out without the baby.<br />
<br />
It is also important to remember that what works for 1 child may not work for the others. Blake hardly ever slept if he could hear adults up and awake. Kayla could sleep through anything and even napped in her room. The 2 little boys nap in the living room and all but Mason sleep in their room. Mason at almost 3 still sleeps at least part of the night in my bed. But I don't mind because he is cuddly and I know that soon enough he will be big and not want to sleep with us.<br />
<br />
I have been a SAHM and I have been a working Mom and I am currently a Working with Children at the Shop MOM {<i>yeah it's real fun</i>}. If I had plenty of money and could do whatever I wanted, I would be a SAHM. Mostly cause I don't have to wear pants, well real pants, I still wear yoga pants at home. It is hard work, but it is still easier than leaving your kids, working and then coming home at night to parent. But for some people that is the perfect mix of adult interaction and then being with their kids at night.<br />
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I think we as women need to stop judging others and let everyone have the same privileges we expect: to make our own choices. We have all made mistakes so instead of complaining about the single mom with kids who are in front of you in line at Walmart having meltdowns, maybe offer assistance or even a kind word. Life isn't a war and contrary to popular belief, we are all on the same side. Life isn't about doing things the "right" way but about doing them the way that works best for you. And remember at the end of the day, if you have healthy happy kids, and a great relationship with your spouse, then nothing else matters. ♥ Love Wins ♥Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-71627661653334581472012-04-13T13:31:00.000-04:002012-04-13T13:31:36.864-04:00Fast Facts Friday #15<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">1. What was your first car? <span style="color: red;">A '95, Hunter Green Ford Taurus. HORRIBLE!!</span><br />
2. Who was your first crush? <span style="color: red;">I guess a boy named James in 6th grade.</span><br />
3. Where was your first apartment away from your parents? <span style="color: red;">I moved in with a friend my senior year of high school.</span><br />
4. Where was your first airplane flight to? <span style="color: red;">I flew back to San Diego from Sacramento.</span><br />
5. What was the first school you attended? <span style="color: red;"> I started kindergarten at La Mesa Dale. </span></span>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-2571878528049735062012-04-08T13:10:00.000-04:002012-04-13T13:17:16.276-04:004 out of 5 isn't bad... Right??I have successfully potty trained 4 kids. WHY does #5 have to be the deal breaker? I have tried all the usual tricks and nothing is working. He wants to wear underwear but then pees (mostly poops) in them. <br />
<br />
We have tried:<br />
~buying his favorite character underwear<br />
~sticker chart<br />
~ Sitting on the potty every 15 minutes. {he will climb off and walk out of the bathroom to poop in his underwear} <br />
~M&M's each time he at least tries (1), more for pee (3), even more for poop (5).<br />
~getting a toy and he can't open it til he is accident free for 1 week<br />
<br />
Did I miss anything?? Last week he was accident free {day/night, nap time and going out} for 3 days and then poop in his underwear twice in 1 day. Everyday for 3 days. Finally I put him back in diapers. He was mad and threw a fit but I can't deal with anymore poopy underwear. <br />
<br />
I guess when he is really ready he will just do it right? No one has ever had a first grader wearing underwear right?? Right?? I would love some tips and tricks. Maybe you know something that worked that I have missed. Thanks!!!Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-64765446933279160202012-04-06T12:33:00.011-04:002012-04-13T13:40:02.635-04:00Fast Facts Friday #14<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">1. Where did you go on your favorite Spring Break? <span style="color: red;">Palm Springs, CA</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">2. Who were you with? <span style="color: red;">My mom and 2 sisters</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">3. What/where was your lamest Spring Break? <span style="color: red;">Started great but I ended up sunburning my eyes and couldn't open them for 3 days and was in excruciating pain.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">4. What was the craziest thing you did on a Spring Break? <span style="color: red;">Went snow skiing. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">5. What do you love about Spring Break? <span style="color: red;">It is warm and sunny but not yet hot and humid.</span></span>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-34026145472489830452012-04-03T16:16:00.002-04:002012-04-04T13:08:46.827-04:00Kill for Coffee Giveaway!!Ever have one of those days when you would kill for coffee? Well after taking two kids to get the oil changed and repair a recalled part {that was supposed to take maybe an hour and took 2 1/2} I would possibly killed the mechanic for a Starbucks coffee. So why don't we do a giveaway?? I don't want anyone to feel the stress and consider homicide. Here's what you'll win:<br />
<br />
A handmade fleece coffee cozy and a $5 Gift Card to Starbucks!! Best part?? There will be 3 winners!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiACnTtE9pDoTeGRle1LwftDR4mL5VZBLZOaY2_KHaBmniHYduURm7tK8GshkVeC0ZbuHJq9_5Uz39ZZxjcb8eaBS_9AEs7Vj7ESH7kD62-gg-RvrgGe5ucBLWhDx1F8WM2b9tOojEq7Kk/s1600/IMG_0635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiACnTtE9pDoTeGRle1LwftDR4mL5VZBLZOaY2_KHaBmniHYduURm7tK8GshkVeC0ZbuHJq9_5Uz39ZZxjcb8eaBS_9AEs7Vj7ESH7kD62-gg-RvrgGe5ucBLWhDx1F8WM2b9tOojEq7Kk/s320/IMG_0635.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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<noscript>&lt;a href="http://rafl.es/enable-js"&gt;You need javascript enabled to see this giveaway&lt;/a&gt;.</noscript>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-47551394940246081842012-03-30T23:49:00.009-04:002012-04-13T13:52:17.110-04:00Fast Fact #13<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">1. What is your earliest memory? <span style="color: red;">I was 5 and my sister was born</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">2. What hair style did you wear when you about 10 years old? <span style="color: red;">Straight with bangs</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">3. What was one of your favorite recess activities? Being with friends. <span style="color: red;">Every couple weeks we would change what was cool. One week it was dodgeball, next it was double dutch, then it was handball..</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">4. Who was your favorite teacher? <span style="color: red;">My favorite teacher was my AP Environmental Science teacher. She was young and great with us high school girls.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">5. What was one of the funniest styles or outfits you sported as a kid? <span style="color: red;"> leggings and sweater. </span></span>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-61508232381894011882012-03-24T13:23:00.000-04:002012-03-24T13:23:49.132-04:00Guest Post: A Character is Born by Cheryl Douglas<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:RelyOnVML/> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/> <w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> <w:Word11KerningPairs/> <w:CachedColBalance/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Author: Cheryl Douglas</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Book: Shameless, Book One in the Nashville Nights Series<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For me, the most exciting part of being a writer is watching the characters come to life. My current series, Nashville Nights, was inspired by my love of country music. I enjoy all types of music but the romance writer in me is drawn to country music when I’m looking for inspiration. Every song tells a story and many of those stories revolve around lost love or people who’ve triumphed over adversity to experience love. Sounds like a romance novel, doesn’t it?</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The first book in this series, Shameless, delves into the life a country singer who’s finally ready to face his demons. He hopes his journey of self-discovery will help him re-kindle a relationship with the woman who left him a broken man, his ex-wife.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When I first started to write this book, I already had a clear picture in my head of who the hero, Trey Turner, would be. What I didn’t expect was to fall in love with each of the secondary characters as well. I was so enthralled with these supporting characters and the outcome of their individual journeys that I had no choice but to give them books of their own. As a result, a single title became a six book series with characters whose lives are inextricably linked. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">At the start of each book, I start out with an idea, an outline and a prayer. By the time I’ve finished, the manuscript rarely resembles the outline and the vague idea of who the characters might be has evolved into something completely different. They face challenges I never expected, have reactions I never would have predicted and have developed personalities all their own. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">By the time I type the words ‘THE END’, I’m never quite ready to say good-bye to these characters. Unfortunately, I have no choice because another character is waiting to be born. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> ~~~~ Check out my review of Cheryl's book: Shameless early next week. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</span></span></div>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-12488238022082130792012-03-23T16:12:00.002-04:002012-03-29T16:14:39.455-04:00Fast Facts Friday #12<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">1. What/where was your first job? <span style="color: red;">Burger King</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">2. How old were you? <span style="color: red;">16 and 1/2</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">3. How did you get there? <span style="color: red;">Parents drove me or I took the bus</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">4. How long did you work there? <span style="color: red;">Almost a year.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: small;">5. What did you like/dislike about it? <span style="color: red;">Loved it because SD BFF worked there too. Hated it cause I did the work of 3 people and most of the other employees spoke Spanish. And it was fast food. EWWW dirty and greasy. </span></span>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-17797357835066130062012-03-16T16:15:00.003-04:002012-03-29T16:18:02.376-04:00Fast Facts Friday #111. What is your favorite drink? (How often do you drink it?) <span style="color: red;">Dr Pepper is my fave but I'm not supposed to drink soda.</span><span style="color: red;"> I have started juicing and I love my "pink" juice which is apples, pineapple, pears,a nd strawberries.</span><br />
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2. Who is your favorite team? <span style="color: red;">San Diego Chargers</span><br />
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3. How do you like your steak? <span style="color: red;">Medium</span><br />
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4. What is your favorite toothpaste? <span style="color: red;">Colgate Optic White</span><br />
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5. Where is your favorite place to shop? <span style="color: red;">Target</span>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-36508440354920448202012-03-09T16:06:00.001-05:002012-03-29T16:15:09.541-04:00Fast Facts Friday #10<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;">1. Do you like to cook? <span style="color: red;">Yes I do now. Except when I am tired from working all day.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;">2. What is your favorite dish to make? <span style="color: red;">Love to make lasagna from scratch</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;">3. Do you like cooking for others? <span style="color: red;">I have 5 kids and a bakery. I have to cook for others</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;">4. Are you a baker-or mainly just a taster? <span style="color: red;">I have loved to bake since I was little. Cooking not til I was an adult: like 22+ years old.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;">5. What food will you NOT cook under any circumstances? <span style="color: red;">I don't cook red meat. Hubby is the one grilling the steaks. LOL</span></span></div>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-75946345697065867712012-03-02T16:08:00.002-05:002012-03-29T16:10:37.403-04:00Fast Facts Friday #91. Where is your favorite repeated vacation place? <span style="color: red;">San Diego</span><br />
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2. How long do you like to go on vacation? <span style="color: red;">As long as possible.</span><br />
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3. Where did you go on your favorite vacation? <span style="color: red;">Vegas for my 30th Birthday</span><br />
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4. Where was your most recent vacation? <span style="color: red;">Vegas </span><span style="color: red;">for my 30th birthday</span><br />
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5. If money were no object, where would you like to go? <span style="color: red;">Fiji</span>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-83767558292806569012012-03-01T00:00:00.003-05:002012-03-01T00:00:00.345-05:00Girl Scout Cookie Cupcakes!!!!!!!As you know I own a cupcake bakery, but you may not know that I LOVE Girl Scout cookies. I would eat boxes and boxes except Hubby doesn't let me. LOL So I decided to combine my loves into Girl Scout cupcakes. I picked 5 variety of cookies: Thin Mints, Savannah Smiles, Tagalong, Do-Si-Do, and Samoas. <br />
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I also think that the first step to cooking or baking is he Semi-Homemade approach. Take a box cake mix or dinner kit and spice it up and make it your own! So instead of posting a bunch of recipes, I decided to instead post a way to take either box mix or your fave cake recipe and make it Girl Scout cookie flavor.<br />
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Thin Mints!! Start with chocolate cake batter that is ready to be scooped. Using a standard ice cream scoop, fill it about 3/4 full with batter and place in cupcake tin. Then crush some Thin Mint cookies {KID job!!}and sprinkle on top of the batter. Bake as directed. For the frosting take a plain vanilla or if you are making homemade buttercream {2 sticks butter, around 3 cups powder sugar, and 3 tablespoons milk makes an awesome frosting} leave it plain- just butter and sugar and add about a cup of crushed Thin Mints cookies. BEST frosting ever!!! Frost cooled cupcakes with the frosting and sprinkle with more crushed Thin Mints.<br />
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Do-Si-Dos!!! This one is really easy. Make vanilla batter and after scooping into cupcake pan, sprinkle 5-6 peanut butter chips on the batter. For the frosting it is a peanut butter frosting. You take a vanilla can frosting and add about 1/2 cup peanut butter. Or you could make the buttercream and add about 1/2 cup of peanut butter. Frost the cooled cupcakes and add 1/2 a Do-Si-Do on top. <br />
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The Savannah Smiles!! Make lemon cake batter and add a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest to the top of each scooped cupcake. Then either use a tub of cream cheese frosting or make you own {if you make the above butter cream use 1 stick of butter and one 8oz cream cheese brick} add to the frosting more lemon zest {about 1 lemon} and a teaspoon or 2 of lemon juice. I also add a few drops of yellow food color to make it look festive!! Frost you cooled cupcakes and let sit 20 minutes or so. Then dust the top with powdered sugar. <br />
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Tagalongs!! Make chocolate cake batter and just like for the Do-Si-Do's add peanut butter chips. then we are frosting with the same peanut butter frosting. Then put in the freezer for 15-20 minutes. We are going to dip them into a chocolate ganache and if the frosting isn't frozen to the cake it may jump "ship" and land in your ganache. Best ganache {I have found} is 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips and 1 cup heavy cream. Heat cream {on stove top} until bubbles start to form around edge. Then pour cream over chocolate chips and let sit 1 minute. Mix up til smooth and creamy. Take cupcakes out of freezer and dip into slightly cooled ganache. Try not to eat all of them!!<br />
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If you have made it this far you are a maser baker!! So now comes the mother load: Samoas!!!!!!! By far my fave Girl scout cookie!! Make regular vanilla cupcakes and bake as directed. When cooled, core and fill with caramel. I use a large round piping tip to core them but the handle of a wooden spoon works just as well. You want a thick caramel so I suggest either making your own or buying Hershey's Caramel Topping {has a silver lid}. That's what I use when I am too lazy or busy to make my own caramel. Then you need to dunk them in the chocolate ganache from the Tagalongs. Then sprinkle then with sweetened coconut {toasted or un-toasted; it's up to you} and drizzle with more of the caramel. <br />
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And it is just that easy!! So what are you going to be making? One of my select flavors or a different one? Girl Scout cookies are available in 11 flavors so you have plenty to choose from!! I would love to see your ideas or pictures of any Girl Scout cupcakes you make!! You can post a link in comments or post a picture on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/the_allison_show" target="_blank">facebook wall.</a>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com79tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-52182497916971919292012-02-24T16:19:00.006-05:002012-03-29T16:20:46.139-04:00Fast Facts Friday #81. Fast food restaurant? <span style="color: red;">McDonald's</span><br />
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2. Casual dining restaurant? <span style="color: red;">5 Guys Burgers</span><br />
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3. Expensive restaurant? <span style="color: red;">BeniHana</span><br />
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4. Family-friendly restaurant? <span style="color: red;">Fatz</span><br />
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5. Restaurant that you could go to everyday? <span style="color: red;">Chinese food here in TN, Taco shops in CA</span>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-78638618261436056162012-02-22T11:10:00.000-05:002012-02-22T11:10:43.222-05:00An Ode to the OverwhelmedI had a post planned about Lent and my plans to give up cupcakes{that way I wouldn't have to go to work} but instead I read this and want to share it. I don't know who the author is but I will do some research and update later. I found it on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Momastery/178909129709" target="_blank">Momastry</a> Facebook page. If you haven't go read their blog NOW!! Like really leave mine and head over and read <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/glennon-melton/dont-carpe-diem_b_1206346.html" target="_blank">Don't Carpe Diem</a> and then go read <a href="http://momastery.com/blog/2012/01/22/a-mountain-im-willing-to-die-on-2/" target="_blank">A Mountain I'm willing to Die On.</a> And then you can come back and read my blog post but by then you may never come back because you will have been sucked into the awesomness of Glennon. So maybe read my post and then go get lost...<br />
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Here is: An Ode to the Overwhelmed<span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">And as you stand there </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Late again </span><br />
Because you forgot to allow time to park<br />
And the elevator was slow<br />
And you left 10 minutes late to begin with <br />
<h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"> With your shoes that pinch <br />
And your pants that are a little too small <br />
Since you started eating white bread again <br />
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And as you paw through your bag <br />
Looking for the suite number <br />
That you're not sure you wrote down to begin with <br />
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Let us now praise you. <br />
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You, the untidy. <br />
You, the careless. <br />
You, the easily distracted by sparkly things. <br />
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The money you spend on late fees alone <br />
Could feed a family in Africa - Which reminds you that you meant to send in the kids' Unicef money and <br />
Forgot. <br />
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And that despite your best efforts, <br />
You rarely eat a square meal, <br />
You almost never get enough sleep <br />
And exercise seems like a word that magazines have developed <br />
Just to make you feel bad about yourself. <br />
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But you are good and brave. <br />
You, flying by the seat of your pants <br />
Making it work <br />
Putting out fires <br />
Saying your prayers <br />
And dancing your dance of now and later and maybe and <br />
<span> I'll-have-to-call-you-back-on-</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span><span>that-could-you-send-me-an-emai</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span><span>l-to-remind-me-to-call-you-bac</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break"></span>k-on-that? <br />
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As innocent as each morning's sunrise, <br />
You are a fount of good intentions. <br />
Your good humor is as graceful as a baby giraffe, <br />
Even if that joke you were trying to make to the hotel clerk fell flat <br />
And your toast at the wedding came out sounding a little...funny. <br />
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But you have gifts that no one knows about. <br />
You have the strength to bend in the wind <br />
You have the joyful spirit that loves a good belly laugh, <br />
You have the wisdom to understand that everything will all come out all right in the end and <br />
You have the faith to light a candle rather than curse the darkness. <br />
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That is, if you could find the book of matches from that romantic restaurant that you went to for your anniversary but since you didn't have a reservation they made you wait at the bar for half an hour during which you had two appletinis and the rest of the night is a bit of a blur. <br />
So much for the overpriced lingerie. <br />
You are beautiful. <br />
You are beautiful. <br />
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Frazzled and overworked and underpaid <br />
You are the one who forgot your wallet <br />
And forgot your receipt for the dry cleaners <br />
And forgot your keys which you just set down five seconds ago, so where could they possibly have gone? <br />
But you never forget to say, "I love you" <br />
And you never forget to give a big smile to that nice parking guy <br />
And you never fail to show endless patience when the <br />
Too-tightly wrapped and overly-conscientious start to offer their <br />
Oh-so-helpful suggestions about how you might feel better if you would just learn to alphabetize your spice rack. <br />
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You are beautiful. <br />
So, wear the lingerie on Monday for no reason. <br />
And why not just refuse to participate in the bake sale this year? <br />
And give yourself a compliment for something you did well today. <br />
Because you are the most beautiful person I've ever known. <br />
<br />
© 2009 Samantha Bennett </span></span></span></h6>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9089598163854991625.post-49069138403266729672012-02-17T16:21:00.010-05:002012-03-29T16:25:58.920-04:00Fast Facts Friday #7<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">1. Do you collect anything? <span style="color: red;">Not really. I have tons, and I mean TONS of books though.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">2. What’s your favorite hobby? <span style="color: red;">Photography. I tell people that is my next career after baking.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">3. What is your style of organization? <span style="color: red;">Either sloppy mess or crazy OCD organized. Depends on what it is and if I have the money/room/time to get stuff and keep stuff as organized as I would want.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">4. If you didn’t have any limitations, what would you be passionate about? <span style="color: red;">I would love to be able to travel all over the world!! Imagine</span><span style="color: red;"> the awesome pictures I would take and the people and places I would see!!</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">5. What hobby have you been thinking about trying, but haven't yet? </span></span><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I want to learn to sew, I would love to have a clothing store maybe. I also want to start making all natural soaps and scrubs.</span></span> </span></span></div>Allisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06795736495933935382noreply@blogger.com0