Happy New Year!

Happy New Year & Feliz Año Nuevo everyone! Hope you all have a wonderful time with your families and loved ones. See you next year! ;) lol I just had to say it!


Myspace Layouts

technorati: happy new year, feliz año nuevo, see you next year

Puerto Rican Coquito & other fine Navidad traditions

Before I sign off for the holidays, I couldn't leave without sharing the recipe for coquito (let's call it a Puerto Rican version of eggnog - but better! lol).

************************************************************************************
Coquito - from http://www.elboricua.com/coquito.html

30 ounces coconut milk
14 ounces condensed milk
1 cup Bacardi rum
½ cup water
pinch of salt
½ tsp. cinnamon

Mix all ingredients in the blender. Taste and [add] more rum if you like it stronger. You need to add the water because it will get thicker later in the fridge. Pour into a bottle and refrigerate well. Make ahead for richer flavor. Serve in small glassware.
************************************************************************************

You can also read up on the traditions of a Puerto Rican Christmas and another great dish - pasteles.

My baby girl had her first pastel earlier this month when we had the all day cooking fest.

I'm not sure if she liked it, but she ate some of it, actually, most of it got on her clothes, but such is toddler feeding.

Anyway, FELIZ NAVIDAD!

technorati: coquito, navidad, pasteles, puerto rican eggnog, puerto rican christmas, feliz navidad

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, etc etc

Just wanted to wish everyone a great Christmas! Hope you all have a wonderful time with your families and loved ones. See you next week!


Christmas Myspace Graphics

technorati: merry christmas, happy holidays

Success For Work At Home Moms

I have yet to find my calling/business for becoming a WAHM, but am working on it. Hopefully with the new year, I will be able to dedicate more of my time and effort to developing my business. Things are just too hectic right now with the holidays and such. However, I still like to be in-the-know and read up on tips for being a WAHM (or SAHM for that matter - since these tips can apply to any mom).

Here I share with you 7 tips for success for the WAHM:

7 Ways To Guarantee Success For WAHM (Work At Home Moms)
by: Kara Jankowski

Are you a WAHM (work at home mom)? Or maybe you’d like to be one?

You’ve made a great decision. As a work at home mom you get the best of both worlds. You are home with your kids so they are being raised by you instead of a daycare worker, and you also are making an income to support your family. Work at home moms have it all – the joy of their children, the mental stimulation of a career, and a stress-free, comfortable work environment.

“Wait!” You say, “WAHM jobs are not stress-free!” Well ladies I’m here to tell you it can be done. Consider me your personal WAHM resource for solutions to your work at home problems. Follow these simple steps to create an organized and effective work at home environment.

Key to Success #1: Create A Flexible Schedule

Babies need to be on a schedule right away. In fact they thrive and actually cry less knowing that they can count on their needs being met regularly.

For most babies you can follow a simple schedule of feeding time, followed by activity time, then sleep time. The length varies for each step depending on the age of your child.

Activities also vary according to age. Your baby could be staring at a mobile turning above her, playing with brightly colored toys, reading a book with you, or banging away on a drum and singing.
Here’s the key – your baby needs to learn how to play on their own as well. So during part of activity time you should allow your baby to enjoy playing alone. This will give you a little “you” time. You can keep a watchful eye on them from across the room, or depending on their age and if they are in a safe area, you can use a baby monitor.

Be sure to watch for signs of your baby getting tired. If you delay putting them to bed you can actually miss the window of opportunity and you’ll have a very fussy baby who won’t go to sleep. At the first sign of a yawn or face and eye rubbing, it’s time to put them down for a nap.

Then you can knuckle down and accomplish your work tasks. It’s very important for you to list your goals and action steps and do the most important tasks first. That way if baby wakes up early you have already done the most important thing for your day!

Repeat this schedule throughout your day so you and your baby know what to expect and when. They won’t adapt to this overnight, be patient and keep at it. And remember that the length of each cycle will continually change as they grow. Stay flexible while still maintaining the cycle of feeding, activity then sleep.

Key to Success #2: You Can Only Do What You Can Do

This is so important for WAHM work at home moms. Think about it a second. You can only do what you can do. There is no sense in worrying that your day didn’t go as planned and you didn’t achieve this or that. Get used to it!

You have an important job here, and that is taking care of your little one. Work is important and has its place but you have a responsibility to keep yourself healthy and sane. If your baby has a meltdown and you’re unable to get to your work for another hour, so be it. Don’t waste energy worrying or fretting about it.

If you’re going to be successful you’ll have to work at odd times and make sacrifices here and there. Maybe you’ll do a little work after baby is in bed for the night, maybe you skip some TV time. Do what you can, when you can, and feel proud that you are taking steps every single day towards your goal – a happy baby and a successful mommy!

Also, consider working for yourself in a home business instead of working an at-home “job”. You’ll have much less stress because you’ll answer to you, not your boss, and you won’t feel like you’re trying to compete with the others at the office. Plus, you’ll be earning money for yourself and growing your business instead of working to make your boss rich.

Key to Success #3: Practice Good Self-Care

During your baby’s alone activity time and his sleep time you can get a lot of work done. But don’t forget that you need to take care of YOU! Without you at your emotional best even the smallest thing can turn you into a walking time bomb.

Take the time to relax in a hot bath, read an inspirational book, get a massage, take a walk alone, or whatever helps you to clear your mind and focus on you. You are the most important part of this equation!

Key to Success #4: Ask For Help

So often we think we’re alone, or that we’re weak if we ask for help. This is a time in our lives that we need help more than ever. We just can’t possibly do it all.

So ask your family, friends and neighbors to assist your efforts. Whether it’s for babysitting (even if you’re there at your desk working) or buying groceries, enlist the support of others so you can have a break or accomplish a task. You deserve it!

Key to Success #5: Exercise

It doesn’t matter if you do yoga, go to the gym, walk the neighborhood, hike the trails or use a climbing wall. Be active every day. Exercise keeps you young, stimulates those “feel good” hormones in your body, refreshes you mentally, and helps get rid of those pregnancy pounds too.

Don’t beat yourself up with an unrealistic exercise program. Just work it into your day. You can even space it out. Studies show that 10 minutes of exercise three times a day is just as beneficial as 30 minutes at one time. The important thing is to do it regularly, and preferably every day.

Key to Success #6: Be Grateful Every Day

This is so important. Do this in the morning while you brush your teeth, shower, or even while feeding baby. Run through in your mind everything you are grateful for.

You can begin thinking “I am so happy and grateful that…my family is healthy, we have this roof over our head, we are warm and safe, my parents live close by, we have food in the pantry, I have the ability to work from home, I have the skills I need to succeed, I have access to the internet to maintain a business” etc…

Don’t skip this step. It will put you in the right frame of mind to accomplish your goals every day.

Key to Success #7: Maximize Your Work Time

As a work at home mom your attention is constantly being pulled in many directions. It’s so important that the time you spend working is maximized.

What do I mean by maximizing your time? I mean be sure that your efforts have a clear and substantial reward. It makes no sense to take time away from your children if you’re not well compensated. In my business I make at least $1000 per transaction, so I always know my time is well spent.

You also want to utilize the concept of leverage in your business. There should be a system in place so that you do the work once, but keep benefiting from those initial efforts later on, without more time or input from you.

Using these keys to success will create a happier and healthier you and baby, as well as a more productive business. As a work at home mom you need to be so careful to maintain balance in your life. Using a WAHM resource such as this, as well as other books or articles, can help you eliminate stress and accomplish more each day. For more information visit http://www.FollowALeader.com/wahm. Remember these keys to success to protect your sanity and live at your best, and your personal and business success will grow every day.

technorati: WAHM, SAHM, work at home, keys to success

Madness Keeps Going...

Life is still extremely busy and hectic, so I'll leave you with a lovely picture of my baby girl for now...

technorati: hectic, madness, busy life

Speaking of memory loss...

To go along with that last post...

I have been having a major case of forgetfulness. I have lists everywhere and for everything and I still can't seem to get everything in order or remember everything. Perfect example - my husband's company Christmas party was this past weekend.

He went to work for a while and I was to meet him there in time for the party. He asked that I buy him a sweater and bring it with me so that he could wear it to the party. I bought him a nice sweater and put the bag next to the counter in the kitchen, so I wouldn't forget it. Guess what? You got it! I forgot the stupid bag and only remembered as I'm 2 minutes away from my husband's job. Luckily it wasn't very cold that night, so he was ok, but still, I forgot. And, I've been like that for a few other things lately.

Ok, I'm done whining now. I'm sure there are more important things to worry about, but being a person who used to remember everything and who was very organized, it's hard to realize you can't keep up with everything anymore. All this from just having a baby???!!! lol

technorati: forgetfulness, lists, organized, whining, motherhood

Mommy Poem

I was browsing around and found this poem about losing your memory once you become a mom. As I read through it, I couldn't help but think that's how I feel. I certainly have "lost" some of my memory and at the same time have gained so much more. I have a new perspective on life and see everyday things as mundane. Well, anyway, enjoy the poem and try not to cry. ;)

From http://www.thelaboroflove.com/prose/poems/lost.html

Lost Some Memory

I think I've lost some memory
since Miranda was born
I don't remember sleeping late
on a lazy Sunday morn

I don't remember quiet dinners
with candlelight and wine.
Or getting up and ready for work
and making it there on time.

I don't remember summer days
just lounging on the beach
And those memories of "girls' night out"
are somehow out of reach.

I don't remember long warm baths
with bubbles and a good book
Or my favorite TV program
or a movie worth a look.

I can't remember all those things
I spent time on yesterday
And I can't remember life
being any other way.

And as I lay her down at night
and kiss this little girl
I can't remember so much happiness,
such love and joy in my world.

(c) 1997 Juli All Rights Reserved

technorati: memory loss, motherhood, lost memory, poem, life

You know you're a hot mama!

With all the madness and chaos I currently have going on in my life, I certainly don't have much time for pampering and pretty-ing myself up. But, I definitely need to take some time to take care of myself, because let's face it - I am too young to be a frumpy mama! Also there's that other little fact that if I ever want to have another child, I will need to entice my husband! ;)

So, I came across the Hot Mama Makeover! I think I'll be following these steps to get myself ready for the holidays and the new year. I think you'll enjoy it too. Let me know what you think and how your makeover goes! Looking forward to meeting all the hot mamas! lol :D



Oh, and for other tips on health, money, pregnancy, children, free offers, etc. and a mom's forum, check out this site.

technorati: hot mama makeover, hot mama, frumpy mama, pampering, makeover, motherhood, free offers

Madness!

Things have been hectic - both at work and in my personal life! I've barely had time to keep up with my emails, let alone this blog. I will post ASAP - I promise!

For now, I leave you with some great stores where you can get some of that Christmas shopping done.
















And for all those great pictures you took over Thanksgiving or for your Christmas cards -

technorati: christmas, cards, shopping, thanksgiving, no time, hectic, madness

Wanna launder some money?

I came across an article on careerbuilder.com about some job scams that are out there and some tips to recognize these scams. The article lists 6 common scams that are currently popular, from check cashing and stuffing envelopes to phishing scams.

Titled, "Too Good to Be True? Six Common Job Scams", the article begins:

Lured by convenience and seemingly easy money, more and more people are falling prey to job scams. Particularly vulnerable are people who want or need to work from home and those who are looking supplement their income. Those who fall victim can suffer serious consequences including debt collection and criminal charges.

Read full article

I have seen all these scams out there - even some listed on careerbuilder or monster as job opportunities. I think I even answered one for the check cashing deal, but once I got the full info emailed to me, I noticed it just didn't seem right. It's incredible that people can take advantage of others so easily. But, unfortunately, it's true. So just be careful folks - you definitely don't want to get caught up in some illegal money laundering scam when you're just trying to make a few extra bucks to feed your children! :smh:

technorati: careerbuilder, monster, job scams, stuffing envelopes, phishing, work from home, wahm, money laundering

What would you do?

What do you all think? Motherhood Uncensored posted about the recent incident involving Delta airlines where a breast feeding woman was asked to leave the flight.

I found myself thinking - What would I have done? I know I wouldn't use the blanket, especially because it would be even more uncomfortable and very hot for the baby. But, would I have taken the blanket just to shut the flight attendant up, even if I didn't use it? Would I have told her off for even suggesting I needed to use it? What about my husband? What would he have done?

According to the article, the woman was being discreet and her husband was sitting next to her. I gotta admit, it doesn't seem very likely that anyone could even have seen anything to even have the chance to be "offended". And even if they saw something, why would that be so offensive? She is merely feeding her kid. I see plenty of people wearing jeans so low that when they bend, I can see their ass crack hanging out. Isn't that much worse?

If you wish, you can sign a petition against Delta. Let me know - What would you have done?

technorati: delta, motherhood, breastfeeding

Hey mooooooooom

In response to Plain Jane Mom's post, The Zero Boss suggested she watch the following video. Baby girl doesn't talk just yet - well she says a few words here and there - so I guess this is what I have to look forward to in another year or so. You're gonna love it!

technorati: family guy, stewie, hey mom

Babies shouldn't watch TV!!!!

I've posted some cartoons in the past relating to pregnancy and motherhood which I think are cute and make me smile. They are done by Everyday People Cartoons. There are cartoons on plenty of other subjects too. Here's another one I like - well this one is also on mommyhood, but if you check out the website, I promise there are other subjects as well! ;)

Now, I especially like this one because I do this all the time. :gasp: Oh no! How horrible of me - babies shouldn't watch TV until at least age 2, right?! Whatever. Baby girl loves her Baby Einstein and other Disney shows. I've watched them all and since they all teach something in the process, I doubt I'm rotting her brain too much. Besides, she doesn't get that much time in front of the TV, only for times like these where you just need a moment to get dinner going, or need to run to the bathroom, or need to make a call, or - hmmmm, they seem to be adding up. Anyway, you get my drift. I'm really not that bad. I do read to her, play with her, and such, all non-TV activities. I'm not such a horrible mother, then, right? ;)

technorati: pregnancy, motherhood, everyday people cartoons, baby einstein, disney, rotting brains, no tv for babies

It's True!

I was bored and decided to browse Blogthings. I took the Who's Your Inner European quiz and guess what????!!! I am indeed of Spanish heritage! Now if you don't know, I am Puerto Rican, which of course means I have Spanish blood, but if you don't believe me, see for yourself! lol :D

Your Inner European is Spanish!

Energetic and lively. You bring the party with you!

Who's Your Inner European?

technorati: Spanish, european, blogthings, heritage, Puerto Rican

Really? I never noticed...

I came across an article on MSNBC.com today titled "U.S. report: Racial disparities continue". My first thought was - no kidding. The report details how there is a gap amongst whites, blacks, and hispanics concerning education, income, and home ownership.

Here's a little excerpt:

Decades after the civil rights movement, racial disparities in income, education and home ownership persist and, by some measurements, are growing.

White households had incomes that were two-thirds higher than blacks and 40 percent higher than Hispanics last year, according to data released Tuesday by the Census Bureau.

White adults were also more likely than black and Hispanic adults to have college degrees and to own their own homes. They were less likely to live in poverty.

Read full article at http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15704759

Now I ask you - Did we really need to do the research? It's not like we didn't already know that. And if you didn't already know this, then I guess this article was made for you. Go, read, learn.

technorati: race, education, income, home ownership, civil rights, racial disparities, census, poverty, msnbc

A MySpace for moms!

I heard about this new site - connectingmoms.com - and it's basically a myspace for moms. It's got some of the same features, but with a more mom-friendly environment. Just thought I'd let you all know!

Let me know if you sign up, so I can send you the link to my profile!


technorati: myspace, mom-friendly, connectingmoms, motherhood, moms

Hawaiian Luau Recipes - HELP!

So we're having a luau here at work. I've never been to a luau. I don't know what hawaiian dishes entail. Anyone have any tips? I need to come up with a hawaiian(ish) dish to bring to this luau. HELP!


technorati: hawaii, luau, recipes

All is Lost

Lost is taking a break from season 3! I have to wait until FEBRUARY before a new episode will be shown. How can they make me wait that long?

In other news - we picked out all our options for the house. You can sure spend a lot of money in upgrades at that design studio! But, I did get my stainless steel kitchen! Here's what my fridge will look like - well, minus the nice array of fruits/vegetables and wine bottles.


Now that the house situation is pretty much set up, I have to start planning the lil monkey's 1st birthday party. I only have a month left and I haven't even bought invitations or written up a guest list! I guess that gives me a to-do list for the weekend...

Have a great 3-day weekend everyone!

technorati: 1st birthday party, 3-day weekend, stainless steel kitchen, to-do list, lost

New site for moms

I found a new site for moms. It has newsletters with tips on health, money, pregnancy, children, free offers, etc.
They also have a forum where you can "talk" to other moms!

Click here to check it out

Let me know what you think of it.

technorati: new site for moms, moms forum, newsletters, pregnancy, children, free offers

I'm a chick!

Check it out! I'm a blogging chick!

If you want to join their blogroll, visit http://bloggingchicks.blogspot.com/2006/04/blogging-chicks-blogroll.html for more information.

technorati: blogging chick, blogroll, bloggingchicks

10 Tips for Balancing Work and Motherhood

Great article I found on MSNBC.com - I think I need to do some of these things myself.

*********************************************
By Lisa Druxman
Entrepreneur.com

Although there’s no secret recipe to balancing work and motherhood, there are thousands of women out there who have learned to do it successfully, women who’ve taken on this challenge before us and have come out on top.

I’ve been fortunate to have the opportunity to interview many, many entrepreneurial moms. And without fail, at some point during our conversation, they all say the same thing: “When I’m working, I feel like I should be with my kids. But when I’m with my kids, I feel like I should be working.” But that guilt doesn’t stop us from striving for success in both work and as a mother--we want to be able to do them both and do them both well. And if you ask any mom entrepreneur, they’ll probably tell you what they’re doing now is the most rewarding thing they’ve ever done. It’s certainly not easy, but it’s worth it.

I know for a fact that any one solution won’t work for everyone. But I’ve found some common themes among the successful working moms that I know, and here are their 10 tips for being both a terrific mom and business owner.

Read full article

technorati: motherhood, balancing work and motherhood, entrepreneurial moms, working moms, wahm

And now a moment of laughter...

I think most of you will appreciate this cartoon - especially those of you who have a business at home.

Isn't that cute? Now stop laughing and get back to work! ;)

Halloween is here!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

We decided to go with a cheerleader costume for baby girl.
Our lil Packers cheerleader is provided courtesy of her uncle who sent us the outfit.

After searching for a princess outfit, I just wasn't able to find one in her size and wasn't about to spend $30 online for one. I think she looks adorable, but I'm a bit biased! :D

We'll see how trick-or-treating goes tonight! It's her first time and hopefully she loves it!

Have a safe and happy halloween everyone!


technorati: halloween, trick-or-treating, Packers, cheerleader

House update

So we went by the lot of our new home - at my request - over the weekend. The husband thought it was a silly idea, since he was sure they haven't done anything yet, but he drove me anyway. lol He can be such a good guy!

Alas, it looked exactly the same! lol Oh well, it was to be expected.


technorati: silly idea, good guy, new home

Stainless Steel Kitchen for me!

We bought a new home! That's right - a NEW home, expected to be built by May/June 2007. We are so excited! Here's a picture of our lot! lol :D

Expect lots more silly pictures of our home as it progresses.

Our baby girl already picked out her room! She loved this room in the model home - we feel we owe it to her to recreate it in our own home. I love it and hope we can pull it off! What do you think, you like it?

Here's a close up for ya! It's so pretty!

Oh! And here they painted the flowers on the wall and put a lamp/vase (not sure which one) in front to make it look like the flowers are coming out of it.


Now to find good decorating ideas for the rest of the house... I'm thinking stainless steel kitchen, of course my husband's probably thinking BIG SCREEN TV!

technorati: big screen TV, new home, stainless steel kitchen, decorating

Invitation - Shop at Home!

Forget the crowds! Forget the parking nightmares! Forget the screaming children and nasty sales clerks!

Don’t miss out! You are invited to the event of the year! It’s an extravaganza WAH EXPO like you’ve never seen before; product giveaways, samples (great way to get some stocking stuffers!), shopping, demos, prominent business-building speakers to spur you on to business victory (thousands of dollars worth of information - FREE!).

This EXPO will blow the top off any other virtual event you have EVER been to. Come celebrate and ring in the Christmas season with your on-line friends.

Five FULL days of Shopping, networking, and learning!

Date: Nov. 6th - 10th

Time: 10:00am EST-10:00pm EST

Cost: Attendance is free!

Sign up as an *attendee* fill out the form on the 'register' page

This will allow you to receive friendly reminders as the event gets near.

To see a complete listing of all exhibitors, speakers, etc visit the Speaker Schedule page

Thanks! See you there!

technorati: WAH expo, WAHM, work at home, shopping, stay at home, holidays, SAHM, free, samples

The Hottest Place to Promote Your Business!

For any of you that are running your own business, I found this great WAH Expo where you can promote your business and boost your sales. Just in time for the holiday season! Read all about it below....

If you want to register as an exhibitor, just follow this link

**********************************************************
This is a private invitation to quality business owners only! Do you want a piece of the action?

A LIVE AUDIENCE of ENTHUSIASTIC PEOPLE from ALL OVER THE WORLD is lined up waiting to burst through the doors of this EXPO and business learning event.

Why is the response already pulsating? The attendees will receive thousands of dollars of business tools and seminars for absolutely nothing. The line-up of speakers is attracting people from all corners of the globe, and YOU can take advantage of this by signing up today.

If you want an opportunity this holiday season to blast your sales and take part in the most explosive WAH EXPO of the year, now’s your chance, but hurry slots are filling up fast! Share your expertise. Present your product. Promote your services and expand your circle of influence today for continued growth tomorrow.

Don’t delay!

Register today to secure your exhibitor booth!

This is one event you won’t want to miss if you are serious about growing your business!

technorati: WAH expo, WAHM, work at home, promote your business, boost your sales, holidays

University High School - Student Stabbed and Killed

Wow, pretty horrible what happened yesterday at University High School, huh? A 15 year old student is stabbed and killed by a 17 year old student. Why? So far, a girl seems to be the reason.

Read full article here...

I went to that school - graduated in 98. I just can't believe it. I was mentioning to my husband that the way things are going, we might have to home school our baby by the time she reaches school age. It's just so scary to think that something like this could happen to your child.

And this is just locally here in Orlando, I'm not even mentioning the recent events at the other schools.... :sigh:

technorati: University High School, student stabbed, orlando

2007 Entertainment Book

I'm sure most of you already know about the Entertainment Book. But, in case you haven't heard of it, let me tell you, it's great! You can get coupons and discounts for restaurants, stores, movie tickets, etc. They have a lot of buy one get one offers also. Right now, they have a special deal for $1 shipping and you also get a $25 restaurant gift card. If you want to get one, just click below to order yours! Belive me - you won't regret it - it's a great deal.





technorati: BOGO, entertainment book, coupons

Mind your mummy

Halloween, halloween...

First, let me say that my dh and I were in debates as to whether or not we should dress up our little monkey for halloween. His opinion was that she can't eat the candy and it's wouldn't be fair to her. But, I want pictures! I want cute little pictures and memories - one day she'll be able to see them and will laugh at the sight of her cute little self - that or she'll get very mad at me for dressing her up in ridiculous outfits!

Anyway, we decided to go ahead and dress her up (costume still pending) and give trick or treating a try, we'll see how long she lasts. We have agreed not to dress her up in any silly food or animal costumes. We don't want her to be subjected to outfits like these:

	A hershey's kiss? Alright, the kid looks cute & happy, but still.
How about the pea in the pod?
	Awwww, tigger!
And lastly, the ever popular pumpkin outfit for your lil' pumpkin!

In addition to the no animal/food requirement, my baby also doesn't like anything on her head. I can't put hats, headbands, or anything of the sort on her; she immediately takes it off and fusses. So, we need to find a costume that requires no headpiece. You'd think this is easy. But, just about all infant costumes come with something for the head - see above. This narrows the list down significantly.

We're leaning towards a princess or maybe fairy costume, what do you think?

	Perhaps something like this - minus the bow of course.
Or maybe even a little Belle outfit.
	But, definitely not Princess Leia.

I've been looking on the web to get ideas and have found the following online stores have pretty good costumes and aren't very expensive (depending on the outfit).



I'll let you know what we end up dressing her as - will be interesting to see how she does.

Hope you all have a happy & safe Halloween!


technorati: halloween, costumes, little pumpkin, princess leia, belle, pea in the pod, trick or treat

Work at Home Opportunity vs. Scam

There are many work at home opportunities listed out there - from the internet, road signs, classifieds, etc. But how can you tell if they are really legit opportunities or just another scam?
I'm still trying to find the answer to this question - it's a work in progress.

I did find an article from the Federal Trade Commission that I think is helpful. It lists classic work at home schemes, suggests tips for researching the programs, and provides contact information if a complaint needs to be made. You can view the entire article at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/invest/homewrk.htm.

Dr. Phil also has an article on his website - well more of a resource page - but it's full of links to useful information about working from home. You can view it at http://www.drphil.com/articles/article/494. I haven't had a chance to go through each listed link, but will get to it soon.

If you have other useful resources you know about, let me know. I'll be sure to add them to my list. ;)


technorati: work at home, scam, federal trade commission, Dr. Phil, wahm

Medical Discount Program

I found this discount program for medical services. Sounds good for those that don't have insurance or want to find an extra way to save money.

********************************************
For as low as $16.95/month you can save 10%-60% on Dental, Optical, Rx and Physician services at over 350,000 providers nationwide!

No limits on yearly visits, NO paperwork, NO age limits, and NO health restrictions.

Please visit https://www.procardinternational.com/index2.htm?refer=MelanieE5698
Secured Access Code: MelanieE5698
E-mail: MelanieProcard@yahoo.com

Disclosures:

This is NOT insurance.

Discount Medical Plan Organization: New Benefits, Ltd. 14240 Proton Rd., Dallas, TX. 75244.

This discount card program contains a 30 day cancellation period.

Member shall receive a full refund of membership fees, excluding registration fee, if membership is cancelled within the first 30 days.

This plan provides discounts at certain health care providers for medical services.

The range of discounts for medical or ancillary services provided under the plan will vary depending on the type of provider and medical or ancillary service received.

This plan does not make payments directly to the providers of medical services.

The plan member is obligated for all healthcare services but will receive a discount from those healthcare providers who have contracted with the discount plan with the discount plan organization.

* Anticipated national average dental charges for the 2006 calendar year based on comparison of provider negotiated fees to national average fees. Actual costs and savings vary by provider and geographical area.
** According to the Aetna Enterprise Provider Database as of March 1, 2006.

Technorati tags: discount program - medical services - save money - physician

Can't sleep, breathe, or walk

When I was pregnant with my daughter, I got this cute little picture in a forwarded email. I got it towards the end of my pregnancy which was great because that is EXACTLY how I felt! It was nearly impossible to walk and breathe and never mind sleep. I can remember piling up the pillows - I had a pillow behing my back, under my knees, under my belly - nothing helped. Nevertheless, we (dh, baby, and I) all got through it and all is well.

Anyway, I just wanted to share the pic with you - it still makes me smile. If any of you are currently pregnant, hang in there, you'll get through it!


Technorati tags: dh - can't sleep, breathe, or walk - pillows - pregnant

Late Introduction

I realized that I've never really posted anything about me - so here's an attempt at introducing myself.

A few things about me:

• 26 years old
• live in the lightning capital of the US (specifically Orlando)
• been married 3 years
• first time mom
• originally from Puerto Rico
• hate okra
• love to dance - although I don't get to do this much anymore
• love my family
• genealogy is a hobby - check out OneGreatFamily to get started
  
• aspiring SAHM or WAHM - either is fine by me

I love being a mom and was surprised to find out how much you can truly love your baby without even knowing her. I still can't believe that I actually created such a beautiful, intelligent, and what's a good word? - energetic - yes we'll use that one, such an energetic tiny being! My daughter is almost 10 months old and is definitely energetic, which is a nice way of saying she can be like a little monkey! lol :D

She is almost walking and has taken a few steps, she wants to climb on everything, touch everything, get inside of cabinets, etc. etc. The list goes on and on...

Isn't she adorable? She was chasing daddy at the time and trying to grab the camera, hence the close up.

Well anyway, that's a bit about me. Now back to work - we all gotta make a living, right?

Technorati tags: Orlando, Puerto Rico, okra, dance, genealogy, SAHM, WAHM, lightning, being a mom, monkey

Great Resource for Blogs!

Why not make some extra cash from your blog?

This site allows you to add specific advertising to your blog. It's free to join, so give it a try! Just click on the link or banner below...

Join the CrispAds Blog Advertising Network!

Technorati Tags: cash from blogs, CrispAds, advertising

Afraid of the dark - already?

Ah - the joys of parenthood...

Just when things were going smoothly and baby girl seemed to be having no problems - a new one arises!

My 9 (almost 10) month old daughter recently started waking up around 5 am (used to be 6) and just starts crying. She doesn't stop when either daddy or mommy holds her and pushes away from us.

If we put her down, she doesn't start to play either - just keeps crying. We can't seem to console her at all.

She calms down eventually, but it seems that turning the light on helps her to calm down. She has a night-light in her room, but lately has been sleeping the latter part of the night in our room with no night-light.

Could she be afraid of the dark? At such a young age?

It's so hard not to be able to stop her from crying and not knowing what's wrong! I really hope this little stage passes over quick - then on to the next one. :sigh:

Technorati tags: joys of parenthood, afraid of the dark, night light

For all the SAHM out there

I have a question for those of you that are able to stay home with your children.

How in the world do you manage to be able to stay at home??!! How do you afford the mortgage, utilities, etc.? Are you working from home? If so, what kind of work?

I would really love to be able to stay home with my baby girl.

Hit me up if you've got any tips, advice, or just want to share your experience with this. I would love to hear about it! :D

CrispAds Blog Ads


Technorati tags: SAHM, working from home, moms

Stay-at-Home Mom as Family CEO

Interesting article on Yahoo Finance -

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New Market Research Reveals Stay-at-Home Mom as Family CEO
Wednesday September 27, 10:29 am ET

NEW YORK, Sept. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Motherhood has become cool in the last five years, and today's Gen X and Gen Y stay-at-home moms are clearly comfortable in their roles as CEO of their families, according to The New American Homemaker, the latest research from Packaged Facts.

Living in a different universe than their predecessors of just a generation ago, today's homemakers have put careers on hold-or at least on pause, sometimes freelancing or consulting after hours-in order to participate in every facet of their young children's lives.

The emergence of electronic communications and new technologies highly affects how stay-at-home moms communicate, shop, and use media. And they've become accustomed to accomplish tasks at any hour and having instant access to virtually any information they need-factors that have changed their expectations of retailers, marketers, and media.

Using all the latest gadgetry and communication devices-from iPods and internet, to email and instant messaging-they tune in to their kids, their friends, and the world marketplace at all hours of the day, multitasking in spurts to fit around the nuances of child rearing.

The new study reveals not only the differences between today's homemakers and Boomer moms, but it also compares stay-at-home mom (SAHM) attitudes and behaviors to those of career women, women as a whole, and their male counterparts.

Read rest of article at http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/060927/nyw089.html

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Those of you who might be stay-at-home moms - Do you feel as if you are the CEO of your family? Have your expectations of retailers changed? Let me know what you think.

Milk & PMS

What a great milk commercial! Make sure to watch it below, then read on.

Is that not the funniest? Who would have thought that men would ever care for milk so much!

Milk reducing PMS symptoms. What do you think? Lately milk (and dairy products in general) are advertising the great benefits of drinking milk. Like losing weight for example. Now they are helping men worldwide in dealing with PMS.

I just couldn't stop laughing when I saw this video. My husband also appreciated it greatly. Too bad I already drink a lot of milk! ;)

What do you think ladies? Does milk help with PMS?

Make Easy Money Online!

Everyone can make some extra money online just by filling out surveys and reading email! You already get endless amounts of ads in your inbox, why not get paid to read these messages? There is little effort required and absolutely no need for long hours. You can do this anywhere!

Wouldn't you like to have some extra pocket money for the weekend?

This is great for students, stay-at-home moms, dads, or for anyone looking to make some extra change.

Check out some great programs at http://www.myspace.com/easymoneyonline and give them a try.

Every single program is completely free to join and participate. No costs ever!

<----------- http://www.myspace.com/easymoneyonline ---------------->

PREVIEW Call 2: September 27 – Loral Langemeier

Just a heads up that tomorrow night's Womens Power Summit Preview
Call features Loral Langemeier, a well-known Geurilla
wealth tactics trainer and coach. By the time she was 34,
Loral had established a multi-million dollar portfolio of
properties, businesses, and gas & oil notes. Loral's going
to be sharing some of her success strategies on this call.

The call is tomorrow night at 6:30pm PST and will run for 45
minutes, plus you'll learn even more about this exclusive event -
for businesswomen only.

If you want to get an idea of what kinds of information
they'll be providing at Womens Power Summit 2006 event in
Atlanta this October, definitely get on this call.

--> http://pegasus.cc.ucf.edu/~me483020/wps_call.html <--

Just like last week's call with Jeanette Cates, this call is
absolutely free and you won't want to miss it.

Space on the call is limited, so reseve yours now. I would
hate to see you miss it.

--> http://pegasus.cc.ucf.edu/~me483020/wps_call.html <--

I look forward to "seeing" you on the call.

Melanie

***********************************************

Become one of 101 Women who attend the Women's
Power Summit at the Atlanta Waverly Hotel on October 26th!

Just click on the link below to register now!

--> http://pegasus.cc.ucf.edu/~me483020/wps.html <--

LikeChrome Polishing

In an effort to promote my brother's business and help get the word out - here's information on his business and website. Check it out!

*******************************************************

Like Chrome Polishing - We Make It Shine

Our business is dedicated to offering you the best services in polishing. Here at Like Chrome Polishing we specialize in, but are not limited to, motorcycle parts from top to bottom. Other work includes household goods, marine boat parts, and anything custom. If it's made out of metal, "WeMake It Shine". Just give us a call, we will inspect the part and give you a free estimate. With over 13 years of experience, no job is too big or small for us. Our goal is to provide top quality work with quick turn around and fair prices.

For more information visit our website at http://www.likechromepolishing.com or email us at info@likechromepolishing.com.

********************************************************

If you're in the Orlando or Central Florida area, give them a look.

Women Play to Win in Business and Life

Have you seen this happen to a woman you know?

She gets very close to success - then turns her attention in
another direction.

She has an opportunity to "shine" at a meeting, but turns it
over to someone else.

You compliment her on what a great job she did and she gives
credit to the team instead.

She has a million-dollar idea, but decides to take the safer
route and get a steady job and pursue the idea "later."

These are examples of "playing not to lose" and it's often a
common ailment of women in business. It's taking the safe
option instead of really going for it.

While part of this may be a result of our culture, we still
have choices. And that choice can be to "play to win!"

There are five principles for a "Play to Win" attitude.

1. Be Decisive. In business there are opportunities that are
time-sensitive and if you delay in making a choice, you may
lose the chance. From ordering lunch to signing contracts to
choosing the ideal outfit, you need to learn to trust
yourself and make decisions quickly. Start with the menu at
lunch tomorrow. Make your choice in less than a minute, then
enjoy more time for your lunch and the conversation.

2. Live with a Commitment to Learning. Part of the learning
cycle is recognizing and admitting that you don't know. Be
open to asking questions and give up the need to be the
ultimate authority. You'll enjoy a confidence that it's okay
to be you.

3. Learn from Mentors with Experience. Successful people did
not achieve their success alone, yet we sometimes think we
need to do it all ourselves. Seek out a mentor and absorb
their guidance and advice. It doesn't make you appear less
capable by asking for help. It evokes thoughts of "Winner"
when you are willing to ask for mentoring.

4. Be Resourceful with Daily Activities. Women are naturally
good at multitasking, so we tend to be very efficient. But
what that talent does yield sometimes is a lack of focus. So
learning to balance the focus and the multitasking is key to
the Play to Win attitude.

5. Join a Team of Like-Minded Players. In the famous book
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill, the power of the
Mastermind is emphasized. It is important to align yourself
with others who are on the level to which you aspire. So be
cautious in your associations with people, organizations and
even what you read and watch! Be sure they are on the same
winning level.

Learning to Play to Win is a process which can be learned
and practiced on a daily basis. Start now to stomp out that
"playing not to lose" attitude and start winning!

Put that principle into action and click this link to
get registered now:
http://WomensPowerSummit.com/cmd.php?af=491957

Here's to your Power -

--> http://WomensPowerSummit.com/cmd.php?af=491957 <--

Are you a Woman of Power?

I just made special arrangements to get you
into a powerful seminar - for women only.

You see, only 101 Women will be allowed to
attend - and I wanted to ensure you had the
chance to be one of the select few at the
Womens Power Summit on October 26th in
Atlanta, Georgia.

I've made special arrangements with my
friends Alex Mandossian and Dr. Jeanette Cates,
who are co-hosting the one-day event. They're
holding a slot open for you, but only if you sign
up before the event is filled.

> > > Save This Date On Your Calendar < < <

On October 26th, a group of decisive, action-oriented
women will gather at the Atlanta Waverly hotel for a
power-packed day. You will want to be one of them.

If you're in a big hurry, click the link below and
get registered now.

http://WomensPowerSummit.com/cmd.php?af=491957

> > > What To Expect On October 26th < < <

Meet your four 'Play to Win' Trainers:

* Dr. Jeanette Cates will begin to transform
what you already know into your most reliable
recurring revenue.

* Loral Langemeier will help you discover how
to manage,multiply, and protect your new profits.

* Business systems expert Barbara Hemphill,
inventor of the Paper Tiger software, will show
you how to win with your Business.

* And internationally known expert Jody Colvard
will show you how to expand your Message through
podcasting and other innovative tools.

The Summit's emcee, Alex Mandossian will lead
you in three powerful mini-workshops - each
designed to increase the effectiveness with which
you integrate what you've learned.

In addition, a luncheon will be provided as well as
many other surprise effects which will make this a
memorable day.

> > > Should you plan to attend? < < <

If you're a businesswoman who wants to create
her own successful enterprise without the guesswork
that most entrepreneurs face - then you need to
attend.

If you want to accelerate your learning curve and
learn to monetize your Expertise - then you need
to attend.

If you are ready to multiply your Money and
maximize your wealth - then you need to attend.

If you want to see how to expand your Personal
Brand and accelerate your Business Growth - then
you need to attend.

If you're tired of 'playing not to lose' and are ready
to 'Play to Win' - then you need to attend.

Only Women are allowed to attend the Womens
Power Summit. The entire day is devoted to
helping you take your business and your skills to
the Summit to achieve your maximum potential -
and to be a Woman of Power!

Are you ready to take advantage of this rare
opportunity and join 100 other sharp, creative,
decisive, 'play to win' women?

> > > Take Action Now < < <

Of the five 'Play to Win' principles that will be
revealed, the first is - Be Decisive.

Put that principle into action and click this link to
get registered now:
http://WomensPowerSummit.com/cmd.php?af=491957

Here's to your Power - Register Now!
http://WomensPowerSummit.com/cmd.php?af=491957