Menu Plan Monday: Week of August 15th

The easiest way to keep track of a menu plan and recipes is to post it online :)

Monday: Chicken Tenders and Salad

Tuesday: Taco Salad

Wednesday:  Turkey and Bow Tie Pasta Skillet Dinner and Rolls

Thursday: Baked Cod and Rice

Friday: White Bean Chili (I also add 2 cans of chicken breast)

Saturday: Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

Sunday: Chili Dogs and Fries

American Idol: Scotty McCreery

This has been driving me mad since this season of American Idol began.  I KNEW Scotty McCreery looked like somebody but I just couldn't place whom (chalk it up to old age).

Scotty McCreery

Alfred E. Neuman

Do you see it? Maybe if they're side by side...

Really, I think if you look through the Americal Idol slideshow, you'll see even more of a resemblance:


Scotty McCreery - Contestants

Disclaimer:  Knowing who Alfred E. Neuman is does not make me old, just knowledgeable.

Clothing Supporting Military is Considered Violent

I have a son serving our country in Afghanistan. My youngest son wore a shirt to school with his brother's MP Company logo and was told to change because it demonstrated violence:

The logo:

OEF 2010 - 2011

School Policy:
Clothing with reference to obscenities or sex, violence, alcohol or other drugs, drug paraphernalia, tobacco or tobacco products, gangs or gang symbols or other inappropriate symbols are prohibited.

I'd like to apologize to my son's school and the school district for not only having a son in the military to protect your rights and freedom but also for having another son support his brother and the Army.

Oh, and in case you don't know what OEF stands for:
Operation Enduring Freedom

Ironic, isn't it?

Blogger Challenge 17: Are You Named After Anyone?

I know I've been REALLY bad about posting these challenges, but I've been side-tracked by my son's military leave from Afghanistan and trying to spend as much time with him as possible because now I won't see him for at least 7 months.  However, I'm going to *try* to catch up before the end of the challenge. 

While my first name wasn't after anyone, my middle name was in honor of my aunt (my mother's sister).  Although really, my father had a sister named Kathy too.  Anyways...genealogy is a hobby I discovered a little over 10 years ago, and found it's been common for a name to be carried on through at least one child.  Sometimes it would be just the oldest, sometimes all of the children in the family.  Sometimes it would be to carry on the mother's maiden name, the father's first name as the middle name, to honor a person that has died, or a favorite relative.

Circa 1970's

November 2003

Nobody tell her I posted these okay? 

Otherwise she may hop in her car and drive 36 hours to come and kick my ass and stand over me until I delete them.  Not that I wouldn't love to see her, just not for that reason.

While her name is Kathy, I was given the name Kay.  Growing up, my initials were KKC.  But since my last name is German, it sounds like a "K."  Being called KKK was a common error.  Those that know me, may now come to the realization that my initials are actually KKK.  Not really something you want to monogram...



If you want to join me on this blogging journey, I would love to learn more about you. Just post a comment with your link so I can read it and you can grab a linky at  it's gravy, baby for your blog too.

Relationships

When it comes to relationships, we're not our parents, grandparents or great-grandparents. Over the last century, things have changed during every decade.

Women aren't raised to be "sold" to the guy that offers 2 cows and 5 chickens to the family. Women don't marry their older sister's husband because she died during childbirth. Women no longer get married *just* because they get pregnant. The threat of being sent away because of a pregnancy and disgrace brought upon the family is extremely rare. Pre-arranged marriages are practically extinct. Divorce is no longer seen as a woman's failure to keep her husband happy. (Note: While these things do still occur in some countries, I'm not referring to them)

No, things have changed.

We are educated (even if you don't graduate high school, you have more schooling than women did 100 years ago). If you've gone to college, you have more education than most women were 50 years ago.

We have choices now.

We don't have to stay in an abusive relationship.
We don't have to stay in a relationship with a cheater.
We don't have to stay at home and "serve" our husbands. (Note: I am not saying that homemakers that stay home to raise their children are serving their husbands. I'm saying you don't wake up and cook your husband's breakfast and make his lunch and wash/iron his clothing, wait for him to come home and make him a martini and get his newspaper and slippers and make the children be quiet so as to not bother "daddy" while you cook his dinner)

Beginning with Generation "X," we've been raised to be self-sufficient. To get an education. To get a career. To find our "true love." To get married. To raise our children. Oh, and if any of these things aren't working out for you, then make the necessary changes so YOU are happy.

You don't want to go to college? Don't.
You don't want a career but would rather stay home and raise kids? Fine.
You want a divorce? Get it.

Just because you were truly in love with someone once upon a time doesn't mean you won't find true love again. There are many, many people around the world. It's not like it was 100 years ago when your love search was limited to a 25 mile radius. The world is at your fingertips and you are no longer limited.

Find somebody that has the same interests as you. A person that has the same goals as you in life. Oh, and stop looking. Because when you are looking for love, you hurt every second that you're not finding it. Instead, find something to do that makes you happy. Then, look for a group of people that have that same interest, and you might, without looking, find that person.

Please, don't tell me that you're now sitting there thinking there is nothing you can do or have an interest in that cannot involve others. Just about every hobby in the world has groups online. Google it!

Tip 1:
You'll never be happy unless you're happy with yourself.

Tip 2:
The longest relationship you'll ever have is with yourself.

Blogger Challenge Day 8: A Birthday Celebration

When I was younger, our birthday celebrations consisted of having 5-10 friends over for cake and games like Pin the Tail on the Donkey while wearing dunce caps (I mean party hats). If we were really lucky, we'd have a pinata.  One time, us girls went crazy around 1978 and put balloons under our shirts (I searched for the picture but couldn't find it)

Nowadays, the parties are themed at home spending tons of money or have to be held somewhere like Chuck E. Cheese or My Girly Party.   I think if you have boys, you're going to get off a little cheaper than girls.  If you go to Chuck E. Cheese and have the "super" package, it's 16.99 per child, minimum of 4 kids.  If you go to My Girly Party, it's $250 for up to 8 girls.  Seriously, if you're spending that much money on a child under the age of 5, you need therapy.

For my granddaughter, we did the Chuck E. Cheese thing a few years ago for Bryanna's 2nd birthday (which she won't remember but I have a lot of pictures and a lot less money). For her 3rd birthday, it was more low key at a clubhouse and her 4th birthday was at a  restaurant.

My personal tips for kids birthday parties:

• Don't spend a lot of money until after age 5. They won't remember it.
• Pick a theme of their favorite character and go wild at the Dollar Store
• Create gift bags for attendees by going to the Dollar Store and picking up cheap toys
• Kids love pinatas and it wears them out
• For kids 7-10, go old school.  Have them do a  3-legged race, potato sack race, Pin the Tail on the Donkey, etc. and have prizes for the winners. The kids will love it AND get worn out.
• Take a lot of pictures, but remember to put names of attendees on it (tag it) whatever, asap or else you'll forget who some of those people were LOL

Blogger Challenge--Day 7

I know I haven't been around for the last 4 challenges, but I have a really good excuse. No, really, I do. My son came home from Afghanistan for his 2 week leave so I wasn't home. See? I TOLD you it was a good excuse!

So, today's challenge is to post about "Something you use every day."

The day has begun... get ready, get set ... wait a minute, I need more coffee.

My coffee pot is the most over used item in the house.  There is always coffee in it.  People think I'm exaggerating when I tell them how much coffee I drink (6-8 pots, yes pots not cups, per day).   I love my coffee.  It relaxes me.  To be able to sit down and drink a cup of fresh brewed coffee is pure heaven.  I will admit I'm trying to cut back on my coffee intake and add 8 glasses of water per day, but it's really, really hard. 
 
Just remember....Hand over the coffee and back away slowly and no one will get hurt!!!

Blogger Challenge--Day 3

It's gravy, baby has issued a blogger challenge, and I've accepted it, this being day 3!  Today's challenge is very easy for me as I've already posted once before about it. My favorite show is an online Web series called "The Guild." It's a fabulous show about a group of people that play an online game and end up meeting in real life.  Season 5 starts this summer.  There's a link below this video if you'd like to see more of the series.

The Guild is an independent sitcom web series about a group of online gamers. The show started in the late summer of 2007, and for the first season was financed solely by Paypal donations from LOYAL FANS. 

Since season 2, The Guild has been distributed by Xbox Live and Microsoft and sponsored by Sprint.

Episodes vary from 3-8 minutes in length, and follow the Guild members’ lives online and offline. Currently the show is on break, preparing for season 5.

“The Guild” has won numerous awards, including the SXSW, YouTube and Yahoo Web Series Awards in 2008, and 3 Streamy Awards in 2009: Best Comedy Web Series, Best Ensemble, and Best Actress for Felicia Day.

A Letter from Mother to Child

This post was destined to happen.  Lisa posted a comment on my Day 2 Blogger Challenge and said "I know it will be a blink of an eye before this will be my boys. I don't want it to go so quickly."  Just a few hours later, I was going through boxes, preparing for my move this summer, when I came across my middle son's baby book.  Inside of it, was an Ann Landers article from August 10, 1990 in the Detroit Free Press. The letter to Ann Landers was an article the writer had clipped from years before from the Los Angeles Times when her twins were babies but now all grown up and she'd used this article to cherish every moment.  While the letter is addressed to a daughter, the moral of the article is from mother to child.

Dear Daughter:
Although you are only 4 years old and will not understand what I am saying, I feel the need to write this letter and put it away for you to read many years later from now.
When you were an infant and the newness of being a mother wore off, I couldn't wait until you grew up. At first, I found myself wishing, "If only she would start walking!" And then, "If only she would start talking!" One day I suddenly realized that you were out of diapers. You were indeed walking and talking, and pretty soon you would be going off to school.
I remember the morning your father and I brought your baby sister home from the hospital. You and I had been apart six days.  When the door opened I saw you standing there with your angel smile.  You seemed so big compared to the baby I was holding in my arms. It was hard to imagine you were once that small.
I suddenly realized how much of your babyhood I had wished away. Being a mother is demanding. It robs you of so many freedoms, and I resented teh fact that I had so many added responsibilities.  And then I looked down at your soft curls and your trusting eyes.  Suddenly I felt so ashamed.   My heart almost broke.
I cannot relive those first four years, but I have been trying to make them up to you -- and to myself.  I hope and pray that when your first child is born you will be wiser and more mature than I was.  I hope you will enjoy every phase of your child's growing up and not wish they would hurry and pass so you could be free of the "burdens" of motherhood.
You and I will have our share of heated words and angry battles in the years to come. There will be days when we will find it impossible to please each other.  I will secretly wish that you would hurry and graduate from high school so I could send you off to college and be rid of you.
Life rushes by all too rapidly, my darling daughter, especially the lovely days and the beautiful times.  Be smarter than your mother was.  Don't let a single moment slip away unsavored or unappreciated.  These days are priceless and afford you the greatest opportunities for fulfillment.  Never again will your heart be so full. 
All my love,
Mother

Blogger Challenge: Day 2

It's gravy, baby has issued a blogger challenge, and I've accepted it, this being day 2! Today's challenge is "The person or persons that make your world go around."  Just to give you an idea, in case you haven't looked at her site to see the entire month's challenge, here are the first 7 days:

1. A photo of yourself with 10 facts.
2. The person (or people) that make your world go around.
3. Your favorite show.
4. An experience that made you who you are today.
5. Your day. 
6. A favorite memory.
7. Something you use every day.

My 3 boys.   They are my life.  From left to right is Jordan (17 today!!), Kristopher (20) and Kelly (24 on Sunday).  This picture is actually over a year old, so I'm hoping to get a new one in the near future as Kristopher will be coming home from Afghanistan for his 2 week leave.  I'm SO proud of my boys.  Kelly just got his first apartment, Kris is serving his country and Jordan made it to the State Finals in bowling and plans to join the Army when he graduates high school next year.  All of them are hard workers and very respectful and know what they need to do to get what they want.  I love having an open communication with them that they feel they can come and talk to me about anything without judgment, but can expect love and honest answers, which can sometimes be a harsh truth that they may not want to hear, but need to, and that's why they're willing to talk to me. 

Bryanna, my adorable 4 year old granddaughter. While I may blame my son for making me a young grandmother at 36 and making my hair start to turn gray (Seriously, there is no way it was a coincidence that I got my first gray hair just a few months after he told me he was going to become a father).  She is an absolute angel and smart as a whip.  I miss her terribly as I haven't been able to see her as much the last few years since I moved, but I'm hoping to change that in the near future so I can watch her grow into a beautiful young lady. 

Kevin and I got back in touch with each other just before Thanksgiving of last year on Facebook.  We hit it off immediately and began dating in December.  I can't put into words how much he's helped me face some tough times and how exciting it is to be in love with someone who gets me.  He is my rock.

Okay, so this isn't an image of a person or persons, but it is an image to reflect my housecleaning group, PCC.  Every single magazine out there always has an article about how to organize your life. But like anything else that doesn't create a habit, you're back to living your life the way it was and it ends up looking like this again. Our group is based on a point system for household chores.  For example, you can earn points for housecleaning, decluttering, running errands, and personal healthcare (such as weight loss). While the group may have started off as a support group for housecleaning, a select few have also become my best friends and have been with me through thick and thin.  My best friends, in alphabetical order, are: Amanda, Ann, Annette, Celeste, Jamie and Teresa. 

Last, but certainly not least, is the rest of my family, which includes all of my aunts, uncles and cousins.

Blogger Challenge--Day 1

It's gravy, baby has issued a blogger challenge, and I'm accepting it! The 31 Day Photo and Prompt Challenge starts today. Each day she has a prompt so we can tell everyone more about ourselves.As I haven't been very good about posting daily, I thought this would be a good way to get me into the habit. (This is also a good challenge for anyone that wants to start a blog but isn't sure what to write about or how to start).

Day 1: Post a picture of yourself and 10 facts about you.

7-8 months old and a pic you're all tired of looking at.

1. I'm a mom to 3 boys. Since 2 have their birthdays within this next week, I'll give their future ages: 24, 20 and 17. 
2. My birthday is April 7th and I'm an Aries (I don't care what the new horoscope crap says) I'm currently 40, turning 41 next month and looking damn good for a grandma. (I have a 4 year old granddaughter too).
3. I have been married (and divorced) three times.  That's right, I said 3.  Each was a mistake, although I can admit that I never repeated the same "mistake.".  Live and learn.   (My children are from my first 2 marriages.)
4. I love genealogy.  I got into it about 12 years ago.  Although I've been slacking for about 6 years now LOL  I'd love to get back into it, but I know it requires reentering all of the information that I have which will take months, if not years. So, I'm procrastinating.
5. I love to write.  Which is why I love to blog.  This is my umpteenth blog.  I start, I procrastinate blogging, I quit.  I also belong to a housecleaning drill-team blog. I procrastinate blogging to that too.
6. I'm a procrastinator. (SHOCKING!)
7. I'm bipolar.  I was diagnosed in November 2005 as being a type 2 bipolar person. I took a lot of drugs and saw a lot of therapists and psychiatrists and quit after 2 years of being a zombie.  I've attempted to go back to therapy multiple times but always ended up on new zombie drugs.  However, I began seeing a new therapist and psych back in September and was diagnosed as manic depressive/bipolar.  Which is good. Because I'm no longer on the zombie drugs suffering from multiple side effects.  I'm also anxiety-ridden. I have panic attacks when I'm in large groups of people, or even small groups of people if I don't know them.  With therapy, meds and an awesome boyfriend, I'm trying to overcome it.
8. My best friends are those from my housecleaning group.  We chat every day. Some days we clean, some days we don't. Some days we run errands, some days we don't. But we're always there for each other, through thick and thin. Even if we don't live a few miles from each other.
9. Why do I belong to a housecleaning group?  Well, because 10 years ago, I was working full-time and trying to raise a family and keep the house clean and laundry done and cook dinner and I was a wreck. I like things organized, and I was beyond any type of organization.  So, I looked online and found Flylady.  While Flylady was good for me for a couple of years, I needed something more structured. I found the PCC group on Yahoo.  In the group, we use a point based system for chores, errands, goals, etc.  The group helps me stay focused on getting things done instead of procrastinating. I set the amount of points I want to get per day/week/month/year and reward myself when I reach my goals.  Rewards can be as simple as allowing myself time to play on the computer, watch a movie or tv show,  read a book, take a hot bath or purchase something I want.  (Although I restrict purchases only to reaching my monthly goal).
10. I'm determined to get to my goal weight and get tone by the end of the year using Sparkpeople. The site is great because it has FREE nutritional and fitness tracking as well as motivational tips (which is the main reason people fail in their weight loss goals.)  Did I mention it was all free?

Join the Web's Only Nutrition & Fitness Program Just For Teens! Diet

If you want to join me on this blogging journey, I would love to learn more about you. Just post a comment with your link so I can read it and you can grab a linky at  it's gravy, baby for your blog too.

Saving Baby Joseph

So I got a link to this Save Baby Joseph page on my wall and checked it out.

One-year-old Joseph Maraachli of Windsor, Ontario will have his life support removed Monday at 10 am. after the Ontario Superior Court rejected an appeal by the parents to bring him home where he can die under their care. This group was created to draw attention to Baby Joseph's plight in the hopes that the hospital will listen to his parents' wishes.

Here's the article the page links to: Vigil planned in support of family of ‘baby Joseph’ set to lose life support

First of all, there is NO information as to why this one year old is in his condition on life support.  Second, the doctors told the family back in October that there was no chance of recovery (um, from what? We don't know).

Second, the doctors and hospital have fought for life support to be removed because there is no chance of recovery.  Okay, I get that.  The parents don't want to give up.  But, then there's a line in the Life Site News that doesn't make any sense to me: "The doctors gave him no chance of recovery, so his parents, Moe Maraachli and Sana Nader, asked them to perform a tracheotomy, which would allow them to take Joseph home.  But the doctors refused, saying the procedure was too risky."  Is it possible the tracheotomy request was done back in October or November and no new requests have been made since? 

So, I tried to research it.  I found this:
‘Death panels’: Canadian court rules baby’s life support removed against parents’ wishes

I discovered that Joseph is suffering from severe neurological issues, which, as it turns out, the parents had a daughter with the same issues eight years ago, but they did the tracheotomy and she was able to die at home.

His parents want to take him home to die and pray for a miracle that he'll start to breathe on his own.  In reality, it's possible he won't even survive the tracheotomy surgery, and if he does, then he'll end up suffocating to death at home and his parents will be torturing themselves trying to tend to him and possibly not be given the opportunity to say goodbye.  The hospital wants to give him an injection that will allow him to die peacefully.  Most likely, because they know what happened with the daughter and that it'll be easier on the parents and they'll have a chance to say goodbye.  So, which is more humane?

Maybe before people start jumping on the Save Baby Joseph bandwagon and screaming at the "Death Panels" they should do a little research to discover the REAL story and not just the bits and pieces that a  Pro-Life Web site starts spouting. 

Superbowl National Anthem

All I want to say, is that if this was an audition for American Idol, Christina Aguilera would NOT have made it to Hollywood. Not only were her runs horrible and her "growling" ridiculously placed, she didn't even get the lyrics right!  I'm having Roseanne Barr flashbacks...

 

 

Opera, Art Song and Neapolitan Melodies

Do you LOVE Opera? 

If you do, you'll want to make sure you get your tickets for Intensità!!   

May 6, 2011 at the Sovereign Performing Arts Center in Reading, PA.

Intensità!!

Friday, May 6, 2011, 8 p.m.

An evening of music filled with the passion of music from opera, art song and Neapolitan melodies with world renowned soprano Aprile Millo and special guest artists.     

Featuring tenor Sergi Giménez in his U.S. début.

Tickets are available at the VF Outlet Box Office at the Sovereign Center, all Ticketmaster Outlets, or charge by phone at 800.745.3000 or at Ticketmaster.com

Blizzard 2011

Please note that the storm is not yet over. Maybe I'll take some additional photos tomorrow.

 

I did go out and shovel the deck. I debated on the steps.  I found one. When I saw 2 feet of snow on the next step and more than 2 feet of snow blowing towards it, I decided to save my energy.  Maybe I'll leave the house again in March.

149 Military Discounts

This list was originally sent to me by the FRG (Family Readiness Group) and was originated by Brad's Deals. But, it's vital information that should be passed along.  I've removed the expired links so there are only 149 discounts instead of the original 174 as posted by Brad.

Stores & Services Offering Military Discounts

There is no way we can ever properly thank members of the US Military for all that they have done. They are certainly not paid enough for their work and their great sacrifice. Iraq and Afghanistan have been particularly tough and stressful for members of the military, their families and loved ones.

We have found 174 stores and services doing their part to make life easier by offering discounts to active, reserve, and retired members of the US Military and their immediate family members. Please help spread the word via Facebook, Twitter and Email to those you know in the military about this resource. If you have additional suggestions please comment below and they’ll be added on an ongoing basis.

Two important caveats. First, some stores offer discounts only at the owner’s discretion and other discounts vary by state. Second, many stores that give a military discount don’t advertise it. It is always worth asking a store whether they have one or not and to have your military ID on you.

A&W – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

Aeropostale – 20% off in store, just bring valid military ID

Agentsource.com – Up to 40% off standard real estate closing costs for Active duty men and women moving in the United States or Canada

American Airlines – Discount varies, requires military ID

American Video Productions -10% off to active duty, retired, families of military and dependents. Call and ask for the discount http://www.americanvideoproductions.net/

Amtrak – 10% off

Anheuser Busch Amusement Parks – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. Anna’s Linens - 10% off any purchase with Valid Military ID in store only

Apple Computers - The discount varies, you need to sign up here:  http://www.apple.com/r/store/government/ 

Applebee’s – Discount varies per location, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you

Arby’s - Discount varies per location, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Ashford University – Discounted tuition at $250 a credit, books are covered for all required courses, waived application fee, waived technology fee and more! Benefits apply to all Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists and spouses, dependents eligible for survivor benefits, plus civilian DOD employees & separated vets/retirees still using their GI Bill.

ASMBA – Armed Services Mutual Benefit Association – Membership in the non-profit association is free, and, when you join, you’ll get $3,000 of free AD&D coverage.

AT&T – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Auto Zone – Varies Per Store - Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Avis – 25% off, online you should use this coupon AWD # A555084

Azamara Cruises – Discounts vary, 800-338-4962

Back Yard Burgers – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Banana Republic – 10% military discount 1st of every month (may vary by location; in-store only).

Barnes and Noble – 6% off regular price plus free shipping, check out http://www.bn.com/militarycity

Barnhill’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Bass Pro Shops – 10% off from the 15th to 22nd of each month

Bath & Body Works – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Bed & Breakfast Inns – Varies, online 

Best Inns and Suites – Varies, must present Military ID with check-in 

Best Western - Rates within allowable per diem, must present military ID with check in

Big 10 Tires – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Blockbuster – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Boscov’s- 15% off in-store purchases with military ID everyday.

Buckle – 10% off, Free Shipping on all military orders

Budget – Varies, up to 25% off time and mileage Store, requires military ID to redeem

Budget Truck Rental – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Burger King – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Camino Real Apartments – 5% military discount

Captain D’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Carl’s Jr. – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Century 21 – FREE Century 21 AON Home Protection Plan when they buy or sell a home through Molly Kucharski ONLY paid for at settlement. Value = $399.00, call (800) 952-2516

Champs Sports – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Checker Auto Parts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Chevy’s Fresh Mex – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Chick Fil A – Varies, Discount with ID card (location dependent), discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Chipotle – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Ci-Ci’s Pizza – Discount varies, dependent on location, must present military ID

Cingular – 17 to 18% Discount off your bill and 25% off accessories

Clarion Inn – Rates within allowable per diem while on travel orders. Must present valid miliatry ID with check-in

Comfort Inn – Rates within allowable per diem while on travel orders. Must Present valid military ID with check-in

Copeland’s Sports - Discount varies per location

D.S.W. Shoe Warehouse – 10% military discount

Dairy Queen - 10% off, location dependent

Days Inn – Rates within allowable per diem. Must present valid military ID with check-in

Dell Computers – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Denny’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Dick’s Sporting Goods – Discount varies per location, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Discovery Channel Store – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Disney Resorts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Disneyland - Military discounts are available only for tickets purchased at installation MWRs. Prices vary per date and length of visit

Dollar Car Rental – Allowable per diem rates

Dunkin’ Donuts – Veterans advantage members save 10% on all online orders. They also send free coffee to the troops oversees.

El Molino Coffee Shop - Free Shipping, online

Express Clothing Store- 10% off on top of other coupons as well with military ID

Extreme Outfitters -10-20% on miiltary Gear, online and in Store

Eyeware - Discount varies, get the discount online at http://www.afeyewear.com/ – This site offers military discounts for a wide range of eyeglass companies

Ford – Discount varies, http://www.encs.com/ford/

Friendly’s Ice Cream Stores – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Gap – 10% military discount 1st of every month (may vary by location; in-store only).

Geico – 2% to 15% in all states except Georgia, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New Mexico, Tennessee and Texas

GM – Varies, always well below MSRP. You can sign in online at https://www.exclusivegmoffer.com/ip-gmpop/initPop.do?program=mpp

GNC – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Golden Corral – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you

Haber Vision – 50% discount on all sunglasses. Online at http://www.habervision.com/CodeResult.aspx?code=JB10222Q

Hertz – Allowable per diem rates. Show valid military ID

Hewlett-Packard – Log on to website and click on New User Registration: Enter first and last name, user name, password and email address. Use company code: 2727. Discounts vary. Online only. HickoryFarms.com - 10 percent Military discount – Enter 892848 in code box on online order form

Home Depot – 10% off Year Round, to active duty, active reserve, retired military, and immediate family. In-Store, just bring valid military ID

IHOP – 20% with Military ID at owner’s discretion

Imax – $1 off movie tickets with Military ID

Inkshouse.com – 20% off $50 or more, use cod Mil20

Java Cafe – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Jeep – $500 for active military, reserves and retired reserves or active after 20 years of service. Requires military ID

Jiffylube – 10% off with valid Military ID

Jockey – 10% off with valid Military ID

KB Toys – 15% off during advertised Military Days

KFC – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Kohl’s – 15% off with Military ID

Kragen Auto Parts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Lerner – 15% off Long John Silver’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. Longhorn Steakhouse – 10% military discount

Lowes – 10% off year round to active duty, active reserve, retired military, and immediate family. Just bring in a valid military ID. The military discount, however, cannot be combined with other coupons they may be offering.

Marriott Hotels – It’s the Per Diem amount the government picks up, whatever that amount is. Just call and place the reservation over the phone and ask for that discount. Online at http://www.marriott.com/reservation/worldnum.mi

Mary Kay Cosmetics – Military personnel and dependents receive 10 % on online orders. Reference your service affiliation and status, and ask for additional free gift and bigger discounts by contacting website.  
McDonald’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Meineke – 10% off parts

Michaels - 10% off every Wednesday.

Midas – 10% off

MLB Hall of Fame – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Movie Theaters – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Mrs. Fields- 10% off with military ID

NAPA Auto Parts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

Nautica - 10% off with military ID National – No fee for additional drivers, and special off duty rates per location. Service members receive full loss damage waivers 

National Credit Solutions – 25% discount, call toll free at 866-485-2540 x109, and for a direct line please call 972-746-4209 

New York and Company - 15% off military discount 

Nextel – 18% Discount, call 1-800-639-6111 

Nickelodeon Hotels – Reduced rates and perks, online and in store, www.nickhotel.com/military , 877-NICK-111 and ask for the Military Family Package. 

Nike – 10% off, In-Store. For official company policy please check out http://www.nikebiz.com/customer_service/discounts.html 

Nuvo - $30 off Ritmo Pregnancy Sound System. You can call 1-888-688-6462, or use coupon code MILITARY99 online at http://www.nuvo-group.com. Valid military ID required for in-store purchase.

O’Reilly Auto Parts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

Oakley – There is a website you register with that offers Oakleys at a discounted price. It doesn’t say how much that price is though. Check it out online at https://secure.usstandardissue.com/ 

Old Navy – 10% military discount 1st of every month (may vary by location; in-store only).

Pac Sun – Discount varies per location, just bring in a vaild military ID and ask 

Panchero’s Mexican Grill – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

Pancho’s Mexican Buffet – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Panda Express – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

Paradise Bakery- 40% off meals for military members with military ID. Does not extend to family. 

Paradise Limousine – $25 Off Limousine Service Coupon Code: 1369 for service members 

Pizza Hut – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

Play It Again Sports – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

Professional Sports teams – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

Pure Beauty – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Quizno’s – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Race-Depot – 10% off, use code 10MILCITY 

Rack Room Shoes – 15% discount. Bring in valid military ID 

Raising Cane’s Chicken – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

Ramada – 15% to 30% – depending on availability. Must present military I.D. upon check in. 

Red Robin – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

Regal Movie Theaters – Matinee prices for all show times. Requires Military ID 

Ripley’s attractions and museums – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.  
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory – 10% military discount 

Rocky Mountain Tracking – 5% off any tracking inc. Use code USMILITARY, http://www.rmtracking.com/

S & K Men’s Wear – 8% Discount on all items free shipping on orders over $99 & APO/FPO shipping. To access the military site at S&K you must go through their AAFES Exchange Mail Online service. http://bdeal.me/aCVq2X 

Sally Beauty Supply – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

Samsonite- 15% off with military ID 

Shoe Carnival – 10% off Sierra Suites – Rates at or below per diem depending on location. Discounts may vary and depend on availability. Must present military I. 

Six Flags Mountain Magic – Service members receive special discounts on admission for special events and specific dates. Tickets must be purchased in advance MWR and ITT 143. Recreation offices, not at the park. 

Sizzler – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

Sleep Inn - Rates at or below per diem depending on location. Discounts may vary and depend on availability. Must present military I. 

Sonic – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

Southwest Airlines – Varies, it’s a dollar amount, not a percentage. Not available on all flights, you’ll have to call Southwest and simply just ask. 

Spencer’s Gifts – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

SportsMemorabilia.com – 10% off at checkout, use code mili10 online 

Sprint Business – 15% to 20% Discount, 1-888-788-4727 

Suzuki – $500 off for you and immediate family. Requires military ID

Taco Bell – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

Texas Roadhouse – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you. 

The Finish Line – 20 percent military discount off select items at special locations 

The Melting Pot – Discount varies, simply ask and have a valid military ID with you.

Timberland Outlets – 15%, bring in valid military ID 

Toyota – $500 off + $500 for firs time buyers. Requires military ID 

Travelodge – Rates within allowable per diem. Discounts may vary and depend on availability. 

There is no way we can ever properly thank members of the US Military for all that they have done. They are certainly not paid enough for their work and their great sacrifice. Iraq and Afghanistan have been particularly tough and stressful for members of the military, their families and loved ones.

Paper Flowers

My wonderful boyfriend Kevin made me these 2 paper flowers out of construction paper. So, I just had to share (and brag) how pretty they are with everyone. Yes, he made them for Valentine's Day and yes, I got them early. 

Gorgeous, right? 

I'm adding a song to the blog too, just because it's one of my favorite bands and it mentions paper flowers!  The band is Evanescence and the song is called "Imaginary."  There's a link at the bottom if you'd like to purchase the song from Amazon.

Favorite Image About Me

Best Online Mini-Series

Dr Horrible's Sing-Along Blog

Who hasn't heard of Vlogs? (Video Blog for those who haven't).  If you've watched The Guild, then you'll notice that the beginning of each episode is Codex doing her own vlog.  This is what Dr. Horrible is doing, and he's AWESOME.  I love Neil Patrick Harris and he was the perfect person for the part!!  I don't know if it was just so funny because of how ridiculous it was or the singing or what, but it's a great laugh.  Certainly better than anything you'll find on tv, because this is...ORIGINAL.   A 2nd "season" came out, so if you're looking for it on YouTube, make sure you catch all of it :)

Best Song of the Series: My Freeze Ray.  

Really, it was really hard to decide but I think that because this is at the beginning of Act 1, that it just hooked me into watching more.  (Bad Horse Chorus came in a close 2nd).

Dr. Horrible's Sing-along Blog (Motion Picture Soundtrack)

• Neil Patrick Harris as Billy/Dr. Horrible: An aspiring Supervillain of the mad scientist variety. (Currently on HIMYM)
• Felicia Day as Penny: Dr. Horrible's love interest. (Currently on The Guild)
• Nathan Fillion as Captain Hammer: Dr. Horrible's arch-nemesis. (Currently on Castle)
• Simon Helberg as Moist: Dr. Horrible's friend  (Currently on BBT)

For those not understanding acronyms:

HIMYM - How I Met Your Mother

BBT - The Big Bang Theory

Amazon Editorial Review:
On the DVD
Even if you've already watched or downloaded Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog, a number of bonus features might entice you. There are two commentary tracks: Harris, the three Whedons, Tancharoen, Day, and Fillion recorded a spirited track discussing the movie, and there's also "Commentary! The Musical" in which they ignore the movie and sing about the writers' strike and each other (e.g., Fillion sings "I'm Better than Neil")--the songs aren't as good as the Horrible songs, but it's good silly fun. A 20-minute making-of discusses the cast, the recording sessions, and how the movie became a phenomenon, and 10 videos (a half-hour total) were recorded by fans who want to join the Evil League of Evil. And when's the last time you wanted to pause the FBI warning? --David Horiuchi

Herbal Essence Giveaway Tomorrow!

What: Get a coupon for a free bottle of shampoo or conditioner

When: Tomorrow, January 22, 2011 @ 12:00 p.m. EST.

How: Click the image above to get to the giveaway site.

Who: U.S. residents only, must be 18 or older.

They'll be giving away 6,000 coupons, which will take 4-6 weeks to arrive. But hey, it's FREE!

What You Ought to Know

Do you like funny videos? Do you like informational videos?  You'll love this site! I found them on YouTube, but they do have their own site: What You Ought to Know.  I've also included some video reels at the bottom of my page.

A petition has been started to put them on television. If you're interested, sign the syndication petition:

Syndication Petition