My friend Cecily asked me to review a site called Brad's Deals* and help spread the news of its existence. Through Twitter, Facebook and other social media I am often inundated with coupon sites, mailing lists, freebie offers and the like so I wasn't sure what to expect when I clicked on the site. What I have found is that Brad's Deals is a very organized site full of online deals, print coupons and other savings that make it a must to check out before my next shopping trip.
Likes:
The site is very well organized, neat and full of relevant deals.
I love how organized the site is. I can breeze through the offers, find the stores that I'd like to shop from and then click and make my choice to shop online or print a coupon and take on a trip.
The site is neat and clean in the sense that there is not a lot of superfluous information to distract from what I was there for: offers and savings. There are so many sites full of information that can be totally overwhelming and a turn-off. Brad's site is visually appealing, the offers are easy to read and understand AND FIND.
Relevant Deals
While I don't often shop online I found that the offers available tempted me. I have not made purchases but will be sure to include Brad's Deals when I buy in the future.
Dislikes:
Access to the deals.
Luckily I am in the Philadelphia area as that seems Brad's Deal is not available to all. Also one must be quick on the draw or the deals are gone. There was a deal for movie tickets that sold out in minutes.
What stood out:
As I said I don't often shop online but found a few deals that made me change my mind::
Michael's Craft Store which had print coupons that could be downloaded and also had an added benefit of letting me know when
Children's Place. Although my daughter has outgrown this store (sniffle!) I have a few friends with little ones who shop online and there are some great deals to maximize your dollars for clothes.
Bath and Body Works Coupons I may not always need something from the store but love the fantastic scents that I find here.
There is an e-mail list to sign up for deals.
I enjoyed my time on the site and with further exploration found more information.
Have fun and explore!
Clicking for deals,
-r
*Please note that this review has been compensated with an Amazon Gift Card
It's the Rachee show!
Monday, January 31, 2011
All About the Benjamins (or in my case Washingtons and Lincolns)
I did my taxes this weekend. Let me just say that after I crunched, recrunched, added, and sighed I have a new found respect for accountants and people who work with numbers and such.
Anywho as I crunched the numbers and considered the program I had scheduled for today I decided this week would be all about the Benjamins (or in my case Washingtons and Lincolns). I have talked about money and whined about money but this week I am going to explore my relationship with money, my views on money and explore some of the things that seemed to have fallen at my feet about finances!
Please to enjoy, please to comment and your stories are always welcome!
-r
Anywho as I crunched the numbers and considered the program I had scheduled for today I decided this week would be all about the Benjamins (or in my case Washingtons and Lincolns). I have talked about money and whined about money but this week I am going to explore my relationship with money, my views on money and explore some of the things that seemed to have fallen at my feet about finances!
Please to enjoy, please to comment and your stories are always welcome!
-r
Monday, January 24, 2011
Happy Compliment Day!
Hello blogging friends!
I've just found out that today is Compliment Day. Normally when I'm given a compliment I 'oh shucks' it away until the giver seems as frustrated as I am embarrassed. Today I am going to turn the tables, take the compliments (hint, hint!) and spread the love.
This list, by no means, is in order of importance. I am typing this list on the fly.
First I want to say how awesome my readers are! I have met some really wonderful bloggers and readers and thank you all for reading, responding and encouraging me. I love your thoughts, words and the way you all think.
Next I have to acknowledge my wonderful, marvelous, flexible parent's group. Our meeting today detoured from plans but did that stop them? Heck no! Before I could bat an eye they were making up games, reading books and just had a blast. This group of parents almost makes ME want another kid! The consensus is that while motherhood (today it was all women!) is a challenge, there are some positives and focus more on that. They make me want to be a better library chick and mom.
My Liliana! Although she attacked me while I did bicep curls this morning she also makes me realize that I should slow down and relax in the morning and not make a mad dash out the door ten minutes after I was supposed to leave. And yes, I did just compliment my cat.
Effin Guy. Cause I heart him and he makes me grin. Plus he's a sweetie, knows that The Bee comes first and listens to me. Plus he's letting us sell cookies in his store this weekend and I can make moony eyes at him over a box of Samoas, er Caramel Delites. Golly I sound like a user but he just makes me feel happy.
My Mom. Cause it's Hella, Hellish and just f*ckin' cold out and she STILL went to a doctor's appointment. My mom stays colder than ME and if she got the balls to go out in this weather then I will be at the track later. (Later in the week. Inside but you know what I mean.)
My bestie Norma. Cause she just had surgery and went to the gym. When I told her I ate ice cream she didn't judge just said that I should consider joining her and left it at that.
Buffy gets the vote for not saying I told you so although come to think of it, she did say that recently but I digress. We are much closer than THAT TIME LAST YEAR so we can be frank but sometimes know it alls (myself included) suck. She makes the suck less so.
Who do you want to compliment today? Let me know?
Knowing you all are indeed the best,
-r
I've just found out that today is Compliment Day. Normally when I'm given a compliment I 'oh shucks' it away until the giver seems as frustrated as I am embarrassed. Today I am going to turn the tables, take the compliments (hint, hint!) and spread the love.
This list, by no means, is in order of importance. I am typing this list on the fly.
First I want to say how awesome my readers are! I have met some really wonderful bloggers and readers and thank you all for reading, responding and encouraging me. I love your thoughts, words and the way you all think.
Next I have to acknowledge my wonderful, marvelous, flexible parent's group. Our meeting today detoured from plans but did that stop them? Heck no! Before I could bat an eye they were making up games, reading books and just had a blast. This group of parents almost makes ME want another kid! The consensus is that while motherhood (today it was all women!) is a challenge, there are some positives and focus more on that. They make me want to be a better library chick and mom.
My Liliana! Although she attacked me while I did bicep curls this morning she also makes me realize that I should slow down and relax in the morning and not make a mad dash out the door ten minutes after I was supposed to leave. And yes, I did just compliment my cat.My Mom. Cause it's Hella, Hellish and just f*ckin' cold out and she STILL went to a doctor's appointment. My mom stays colder than ME and if she got the balls to go out in this weather then I will be at the track later. (Later in the week. Inside but you know what I mean.)
My bestie Norma. Cause she just had surgery and went to the gym. When I told her I ate ice cream she didn't judge just said that I should consider joining her and left it at that.
Buffy gets the vote for not saying I told you so although come to think of it, she did say that recently but I digress. We are much closer than THAT TIME LAST YEAR so we can be frank but sometimes know it alls (myself included) suck. She makes the suck less so.
Who do you want to compliment today? Let me know?
Knowing you all are indeed the best,
-r
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Girl Power!
In which cookies meets comics.
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| The Bee and her fellow troop members are as sweet as the cookies |
This coming weekend, January 29th from 12-5 to be exact, there will be a meshing of my two worlds: The Bee will be selling Girl Scout Cookies at Effin Guy's store! [Effin Comics which is located at 417 Burmont Road in Drexel Hill, PA 19026]
There are eight delicious varieties at 3.50 a box! The Bee has a goal to sell 300 boxes and we have already sold 25 boxes! Help her reach her goal, help ME offset the cost of camp and buy some comics.
We are selling the sweet treats and Effin Guy is discounting all "Girl Power" comics.
All comics featuring a female super-hero will be 50% off at Effin Comics all day on Saturday.
For more information about this sale or other questions please call Effin Guy aka Tom at (610) 733-7615
Yesterday The Bee and a few of her troop members sold cookies outside of the Supermarket in Southwest Philly. The customers were few but those who stopped were impressed by the Girl Scout's helpfulness,their presence and happily bought boxes to support the cause.
There is a cool website with a great history of the Girl Scout Cookie. You can read how the sale has evolved and learn more about the Girl Scout history. Below are pictures of 7 of the eight cookies taken during our time at the market. The newest cookie on the block is called the Shout Out. This cookie is lower in fat but does not skimp on taste. This new cookie is a crunchy explosion of cinnamon and sweet.There are eight delicious varieties at 3.50 a box! The Bee has a goal to sell 300 boxes and we have already sold 25 boxes! Help her reach her goal, help ME offset the cost of camp and buy some comics.
We are selling the sweet treats and Effin Guy is discounting all "Girl Power" comics.
All comics featuring a female super-hero will be 50% off at Effin Comics all day on Saturday.
For more information about this sale or other questions please call Effin Guy aka Tom at (610) 733-7615
Yesterday The Bee and a few of her troop members sold cookies outside of the Supermarket in Southwest Philly. The customers were few but those who stopped were impressed by the Girl Scout's helpfulness,their presence and happily bought boxes to support the cause.
Effin Comics is located at
417 Burmont Road
Drexel Hill, PA 19026
For more information about this sale or other questions please call Tom at (610) 733-7615
More after the jump...
Blog Hop: Sunday Confessions...Do You Need Silence to Read?
Marcie from the blog To Read or Not to Read asked readers to let her know Do You Need Silence to Read.
I say it would depend on the book. With the scores of books that I have been recommended I can ignore the television, kid, tea kettle even and get swept away. The television or radio will create a pleasant white noise background buzz and even noisy kids cannot tear me away from a good read. Now, if it's something that I really don't want to read, I have to make myself concentrate on each sentence in order to get the idea.
While I realize that people learn differently this makes me question just who SSR, or Sustained Silent Reading, is for. I guess if I had a classroom full of kids I would demand daily twenty minutes of quiet too. SSR, aka DEAR (Drop Everything and Read) or as one of The Bee's classmates calls it: Sit down, Shut up and Read.
How do YOU read?
I say it would depend on the book. With the scores of books that I have been recommended I can ignore the television, kid, tea kettle even and get swept away. The television or radio will create a pleasant white noise background buzz and even noisy kids cannot tear me away from a good read. Now, if it's something that I really don't want to read, I have to make myself concentrate on each sentence in order to get the idea.
While I realize that people learn differently this makes me question just who SSR, or Sustained Silent Reading, is for. I guess if I had a classroom full of kids I would demand daily twenty minutes of quiet too. SSR, aka DEAR (Drop Everything and Read) or as one of The Bee's classmates calls it: Sit down, Shut up and Read.
How do YOU read?
So now it's your turn to answer the question: Do you need silence to read?
*If you answer this question on your own blog, please make sure to leave a link in the comments so I can come visit.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Saturday Stalk - A Blog Hop
Yes, I am aware of the day of the week!
A message from the hosts: Just Married with Coupons AND Debbie Does Coupons
Welcome to Saturday Stalk, a hop hosted by us... We will pick one featured guest each week to hop with us. We will randomly pick a participant. Make sure you post our button each week if you would like to be eligible!
Grab our Hop Button
This week's featured guest is:
Mommy's Corner
Thanks for those who have been participating from week to week and a big welcome to you if this is your first time. We are so glad you are here! This blog hop is all about having fun, meeting new bloggers and building new readership!
Blog Hop Rules
1.Please follow us: Just Married with Coupons, Debbie Does Coupons & Mommy's Little Corner then we WILL FOLLOW YOU BACK!
2.Copy the Saturday Stalk into a blog post on your site. (GO to the site linked above for the code!)
3.Come back and post the direct link to that blog post here into the link forms below.
4.Follow as many participants as you would like, leave them a comment letting them know you're are following them.
5.Follow back anyone that is now following you and leave them a comment back letting them know you're following back through this event
-r
A message from the hosts: Just Married with Coupons AND Debbie Does Coupons
Welcome to Saturday Stalk, a hop hosted by us... We will pick one featured guest each week to hop with us. We will randomly pick a participant. Make sure you post our button each week if you would like to be eligible!
Grab our Hop Button
This week's featured guest is:
Mommy's Corner
Thanks for those who have been participating from week to week and a big welcome to you if this is your first time. We are so glad you are here! This blog hop is all about having fun, meeting new bloggers and building new readership!
Blog Hop Rules
1.Please follow us: Just Married with Coupons, Debbie Does Coupons & Mommy's Little Corner then we WILL FOLLOW YOU BACK!
2.Copy the Saturday Stalk into a blog post on your site. (GO to the site linked above for the code!)
3.Come back and post the direct link to that blog post here into the link forms below.
4.Follow as many participants as you would like, leave them a comment letting them know you're are following them.
5.Follow back anyone that is now following you and leave them a comment back letting them know you're following back through this event
-r
Write a Review Wednesday (on Friday!) Monsters Eat Whiny Children
R's note: My apologies! This has been a crazy week and WARW had to be bumped. Please to enjoy!
Everyone has seen them: at the market, waiting on line while at a store, sitting at the next table as you (attempt) to enjoy lunch. You may even have birthed or be related to one or two. Let's face it, whiny children can be a nightmare! If only there were a way to solve the whine and in Bruce Eric Kaplan's Monsters Eat Whiny Children a fantastic solution is offered. This whimsical book explores just what happens if parents advice of DO NOT WHINE is not heeded.
Henry and Eve, two perfectly delightful children, are going through a terrible phase of whining. Disregarding their kindly father's advice they continue whining (and for perfectly silly, children reasons such as going outside and wanting a grilled cheese) and are kidnapped by a monster. They are then made the main course of dinner as the monster, his wife, their neighbors and and elderly aunt all try to decided just how whiny children are best served. The children are not eaten as the monsters themselves cannot decide how best to eat the children.
There is no real danger in the book so parents of younger children need not be frightened or concerned. The dysfunctional monsters are a hoot as they argue amongst each other, disagree and, well whine. In fact, while reading with The Bee, she was agreed that the monsters and the children all needed to relax and was more compassionate to both whiners and the people who love (or at least co exist) with them.
General considerations:
The book just works! Snappy text and the simple line drawings make this book enjoyable to read over and over. From the map detailing the wake of adventures of Henry and Eve (including a visit to the library when they like to be too loud) to the recipe for cucumber sandwiches the monsters have in lieu of the children this book is a marvelous way to reinforce what happens to whiners.
This book was a preview book for DCLS from Simon and Shuster. Copies are available at your local library or you can buy direct from kids.SimonandSchuster.com
Everyone has seen them: at the market, waiting on line while at a store, sitting at the next table as you (attempt) to enjoy lunch. You may even have birthed or be related to one or two. Let's face it, whiny children can be a nightmare! If only there were a way to solve the whine and in Bruce Eric Kaplan's Monsters Eat Whiny Children a fantastic solution is offered. This whimsical book explores just what happens if parents advice of DO NOT WHINE is not heeded.
Henry and Eve, two perfectly delightful children, are going through a terrible phase of whining. Disregarding their kindly father's advice they continue whining (and for perfectly silly, children reasons such as going outside and wanting a grilled cheese) and are kidnapped by a monster. They are then made the main course of dinner as the monster, his wife, their neighbors and and elderly aunt all try to decided just how whiny children are best served. The children are not eaten as the monsters themselves cannot decide how best to eat the children.
There is no real danger in the book so parents of younger children need not be frightened or concerned. The dysfunctional monsters are a hoot as they argue amongst each other, disagree and, well whine. In fact, while reading with The Bee, she was agreed that the monsters and the children all needed to relax and was more compassionate to both whiners and the people who love (or at least co exist) with them.
General considerations:
The book just works! Snappy text and the simple line drawings make this book enjoyable to read over and over. From the map detailing the wake of adventures of Henry and Eve (including a visit to the library when they like to be too loud) to the recipe for cucumber sandwiches the monsters have in lieu of the children this book is a marvelous way to reinforce what happens to whiners.
This book was a preview book for DCLS from Simon and Shuster. Copies are available at your local library or you can buy direct from kids.SimonandSchuster.com
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Read Between the Wines: Spells Writing Lab Fundraising Event
Over the summer The Bee and Dill had an opportunity to attend a FREE camp at the Spells Writing Lab. Despite getting lost daily the first week of camp and the kids enduring hurricane Rachee (Did I not mention my mom skills suckage?) and all of this during some of the hottest days of the summer they were excited about the camp, meeting authors, starting a podcast and blog (The Bee has since started 'Gloggong' as she wanted this to be an all The Bee endeavor) and a renewed interest in books, the written word and prepared for school. A few months ago I attended a workshop and have been shamelessly cribbing the camp idea at my library to get some kids hooked on reading.
Next week Spells is hosting a fundraiser that I cannot attend (dang Wednesday night work!!!) but I wanted to share this with you all in case you are able. Check out this wonderful organization and support them if you can!
The fundraising event is called Read Between the Wines: 2nd Annual Wine & Cheese Fundraiser.
Totally Irresponsible Saturday Science Club
Join us one Saturday each month, as we turn our writing center into a mad scientist’s laboratory to perform totally messy, thrilling, and crazy experiments guaranteed to make your mom glad you’re not doing them at her house! In past sessions, we’ve made monster ice cream, used a magnet to pull the iron out of cereal, turned milk into curds and whey, and made gloves come to life. What crazy experiments will we attempt this month? Join us and find out!
And Then . . .
Have you ever thought about what crazy things could happen if you gave an animal a treat? The answer might be more than a little surprising! In this writing workshop based on Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond’s popular If You Give A Mouse A Cookie series, we will explore how small actions can lead to zany consequences, and how an everyday situation can turn disastrous—or hilarious! Taking place at the Gallery at Market East, this is a perfect opportunity for parents to get some holiday shopping done without the kids. And, as a special treat after the workshop, participants are invited to help paint the “How Philly Moves” mural, which is being installed next spring on the exterior of the airport.
Extraordinary Excuses
Are you trying to avoid taking a test at school? Trying to find a reason to get out of gym class? Forget to finish your homework, but you’ve already used “My dog ate it”? Taking inspiration from the book Dear Teacher by Amy Husband, we’ll imagine incredibly convincing explanations and craft extraordinary excuse notes that are way more creative than your average doctor’s note. We can’t guarantee that these adventurous accounts will result in an excused absence, but we’re sure your teacher will have fun reading them!
And once again it's all FREE!
Even if you are not able to attend, please try and support Spells! They are always looking for volunteers, ideas and you will be working with an enthusiastic, positive group of ladies!
-r
Next week Spells is hosting a fundraiser that I cannot attend (dang Wednesday night work!!!) but I wanted to share this with you all in case you are able. Check out this wonderful organization and support them if you can!
The fundraising event is called Read Between the Wines: 2nd Annual Wine & Cheese Fundraiser.
Featuring wines from around the world, paired with a selection of Di Bruno Bros cheese by local sommelier Owen Rothstein and CoolVines.
Mix and mingle while comparing tasting notes, reading stories authored by children at our free writing workshops, and listening to light music fare by great local artists. A 50/50 raffle will also be held.
$80 for VIP admission (includes complimentary wine, cheese, and entertainment, plus an exclusive sampling of higher-end wines)
$50 for general admission (includes complimentary wine, cheese, and entertainment)
Purchase admission at http://phillyspells.org/store/
The three weeks that The Bee and Dill attended were well worth the drive. Sadly we haven't been able to make any of the workshops during the fall but what they are offering is drool worthy. Past workshops have included (taken directly from their site):Parking is available during the event at 1845 Walnut Street for a $12 flat rate, and at 2101 Chestnut for a $6 flat rate.
Totally Irresponsible Saturday Science Club
Join us one Saturday each month, as we turn our writing center into a mad scientist’s laboratory to perform totally messy, thrilling, and crazy experiments guaranteed to make your mom glad you’re not doing them at her house! In past sessions, we’ve made monster ice cream, used a magnet to pull the iron out of cereal, turned milk into curds and whey, and made gloves come to life. What crazy experiments will we attempt this month? Join us and find out!
And Then . . .
Have you ever thought about what crazy things could happen if you gave an animal a treat? The answer might be more than a little surprising! In this writing workshop based on Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond’s popular If You Give A Mouse A Cookie series, we will explore how small actions can lead to zany consequences, and how an everyday situation can turn disastrous—or hilarious! Taking place at the Gallery at Market East, this is a perfect opportunity for parents to get some holiday shopping done without the kids. And, as a special treat after the workshop, participants are invited to help paint the “How Philly Moves” mural, which is being installed next spring on the exterior of the airport.
Extraordinary Excuses
Are you trying to avoid taking a test at school? Trying to find a reason to get out of gym class? Forget to finish your homework, but you’ve already used “My dog ate it”? Taking inspiration from the book Dear Teacher by Amy Husband, we’ll imagine incredibly convincing explanations and craft extraordinary excuse notes that are way more creative than your average doctor’s note. We can’t guarantee that these adventurous accounts will result in an excused absence, but we’re sure your teacher will have fun reading them!
And once again it's all FREE!
Even if you are not able to attend, please try and support Spells! They are always looking for volunteers, ideas and you will be working with an enthusiastic, positive group of ladies!
-r
iLove yarn apps!
For anyone with a smart phone (not just iPhones) apps are not just bells and whistles to crowd your home screen, they can* simplify and organize your life, help you lose and maintain a diet and exercise plan and are just fun! As I attempt to get my life in some semblance of order, I have found that instead of downloading a plethora of free apps and games, I have actually found some to be quite useful. As I attempt to get my hooking** back on track I love the apps that I can use to find patterns, buy yarn*** and just keep a finger on the pulse of the crochet community.
Red Heart Yarns and Lion Brand are two apps that I was pleased to add to my phone. These are yarns that I frequently use as when I started my life with a hook this was the yarn most frequently donated. Over time I have found while Red Heart and Lion Brand may not be yarn shop exclusives, there are some very nice yarns that while inexpensive is in no way cheap.
Comparing the two apps I will say that I like Lion Brand's better. My only nitpicky Rachee thing is that I wish there were a link to the podcast hosted by Liz and Zontee. But between the two:
Cost:
Free. Can't beat that!
Patterns:
Lion Brand wins. The app has access to what seems to be every pattern* from the website where as Red Heart only offers a few. Both have options to visit their respective sites on the web to access all of the patterns.
Looking for patterns - Ease of navigation:
As a chick with a hook I like that Lion Brand will allow a search of crochet only patterns. Red Heart does provide a hook next to patterns for crochet but there is no way to filter.
Media:
I would have liked to been able to access the Lion Brand Podcasts hosted by Lizz and Zontee but through the magic of iTunes and Stitcher I am able to easily access current and past episodes. Red Heart does have videos that can be viewed via You Tube. There are a plethora of crochet (score!)
Red Heart wins here as there is a link to their Facebook and Twitter pages and a link to Crochet Today.
Since I have had the Lion Brand app for longer I admit that I am more familiar and comfortable with it but I can see me easily enjoying Red Heart Yarn's app as well. For what they are worth, down load them both (did I mention they were free?) and find a new project to get hooked on!
Pairing some combos,
-r
*If one used them daily. As I don't. Don't judge me.
** Crochet! Get your mind our of the gutter although I am sure there may be an app for THAT!
***I have yet to buy more yarn for my stash although boy oh boy am I tempted!
Red Heart Yarns and Lion Brand are two apps that I was pleased to add to my phone. These are yarns that I frequently use as when I started my life with a hook this was the yarn most frequently donated. Over time I have found while Red Heart and Lion Brand may not be yarn shop exclusives, there are some very nice yarns that while inexpensive is in no way cheap.
Comparing the two apps I will say that I like Lion Brand's better. My only nitpicky Rachee thing is that I wish there were a link to the podcast hosted by Liz and Zontee. But between the two:
Cost:
Free. Can't beat that!
Patterns:
Lion Brand wins. The app has access to what seems to be every pattern* from the website where as Red Heart only offers a few. Both have options to visit their respective sites on the web to access all of the patterns.
Looking for patterns - Ease of navigation:
As a chick with a hook I like that Lion Brand will allow a search of crochet only patterns. Red Heart does provide a hook next to patterns for crochet but there is no way to filter.
Media:
I would have liked to been able to access the Lion Brand Podcasts hosted by Lizz and Zontee but through the magic of iTunes and Stitcher I am able to easily access current and past episodes. Red Heart does have videos that can be viewed via You Tube. There are a plethora of crochet (score!)
Red Heart wins here as there is a link to their Facebook and Twitter pages and a link to Crochet Today.
Since I have had the Lion Brand app for longer I admit that I am more familiar and comfortable with it but I can see me easily enjoying Red Heart Yarn's app as well. For what they are worth, down load them both (did I mention they were free?) and find a new project to get hooked on!
Pairing some combos,
-r
*If one used them daily. As I don't. Don't judge me.
** Crochet! Get your mind our of the gutter although I am sure there may be an app for THAT!
***I have yet to buy more yarn for my stash although boy oh boy am I tempted!
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Thoughtful Tuesdays...Blogging Under the Influence
...or what's it all about, Bloggers?
Sigh!
Lately I've been thinking about just what it is my blog means to me and by extension to you all who read (thanks!), follow (thanks!) and comment (thanks!). As I peruse the plethora of blogs via Facebook, Google Reader, Twitter links, my social media group and the like I see so many things that I want for my blog, so many things that I admire and I have to question: What the Bleep is my blog about?
When I first started blogging, I literally started with: Everyone else is doing it, why not me? and I wrote about everything and nothing: bizarre holidays, revisited some old posts from an old Maxpages website that I had, and just rambled waxed poetically about life as I saw it. In an attempt to create the blog that I looked for when I began as a library chick, I started a work blog and posted my story times, bizarre holidays with book tie ins and other library biz things. But after chatting with a blogger friend of mine, realizing that while I do enjoy writing there could be a way to make my blog work for me, I wondered JUST what my blog should be?
There have been words bandied about...Mommy Blogger, Brown Blogger, Book Blogger but for me, what do they mean? Should I be focusing on a BRAND? Hell, WHAT does that even mean? Should I continue as I have loving that I am able to write and not really worrying about what the next step will be? Should I purchase a fancy upgrade, blog buttons and the like and market myself more? What should my 'thing' be? Mommy blogger? I DO delight in talking about The Bee and think you all enjoy it too (cue polite nods of heads). Brown Blogger? I am a woman of color but other then a few topics that piss me off, I feel that my voice is not strong enough to sway*. Book/Library Blogger? Again, my passion for books is one thing but I still find myself at a loss for what to blog about reading other blogs (yes that AGAIN) and thinking that there us no way I am as good a writer.
Sigh!
 |
| Rachee will crochet for you... and finish it too! |
I am feeling like my recent bout of personal issues are clouding my way of thinking. I don't want to be rash and threaten something that will not happen such as not blogging nor do I want to become so focused on monetizing that I sound like the pain in the ass that money makes people yet there has to be some middle road.
Oh well, one thing that I do feel positive and confident about is my hooking and by that I mean crochet (get your mind out of the gutter!). I have been working on a business plan** for Rachee Crochet's and that will be going live by February. Stay tuned!
Writing with a purpose...sorta,
-r
*In case you hadn't noticed I am having some self confidence issues
**As much as you can call writing some ideas in a notebook and holding a blogger friend hostage for forty minutes while I discussed things a business plan!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Did You Serve?
This year marks the 16th anniversary of the Greater Philadelphia's Martin Luther King day of service and once again I was invited to serve. Someone on my Twitter feed questioned when did MLK Jr become [synonymous] anonymous with service and not, say Justice/Change. Coming from a world, time when I did nothing but sleep in on this particular day I think my doing ANYTHING is a start but I can see where Dr.
My crochet group, Sisters in Stitches made baby hats for Save the Children foundation. The goal is 300 hats by mid February. There is still time to help out; knot and crochet caps can be made and donated to the Wynnefirld Library or you can stop by our next meeting on February 5th to make a hat, donate some that you've made already (hint, hint!) and just fellowship with some great women, positive souls and be energized.
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| Just some of the hats that were already made |
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| Sisters in Stitches |
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| My contribution |
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| A sweet hat that I want to try |
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| A few of us showing off more hats |
The Bee's school has had a service day for over ten years (WOW!) and had a variety of projects that everyone from ages 5 through 95 could participate in. As always, The committee who put the day together did a fabulous job and the general buzz for the day was full of positive vibes.
The chorus sang and one of the highlights was a visit from Dr.Walter P. Lomax, Jr., MD who shared his experience and memories during a time he treated the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The Bee and I participated in recording a book on tape for Philadelphia Reads. Twenty books were read that were recorded and the recording and copies of books will be shared with readers. Choices for books included Strega Nona, The Snowy Day, The Cat in the Hat and Whistle for Willie.
Other projects for the day:
Red Cross Blood Drive
Books on Tape for Philadelphia Reads
The mission of Philadelphia Reads is to strengthen the literacy skills of Philadelphia's youngest and neediest school children by providing mentors and resources for in-school and out of school programs.
Caring for Others Collage Project
Students and their grandparents and parents will be making collages with the theme “Caring for Others.” Later the artworks will be auctioned off to raise money for Fresh Artists, a local program that supports art education in inner-city schools. Special invitation to grandparents: this is a perfect opportunity to share your wisdom and creativity with your grandchildren. Please join us!
Aid for Friends Breakfast Bags
We will pack breakfast bags again for Aid for Friends, a nonprofit organization that serves needy, isolated shut-ins, primarily the elderly, in the greater Philadelphia area. Our families will donate non-perishable foods and on MLK Day we’ll pack them up, along with a hand-made card or note. This is a great activity for our younger volunteers, who love running from table to table filling the bags. Learn more at www.aidforfriends.org. Aid for Friends says the breakfast bags will really help them get through the year with the economy suffering so badly.
Supplies for Mennonite Central Committee
Once again, we will pack school or health supply kits for the Mennonite Central Committee. MCC is a wonderful nonprofit organization that sends desperately needed people, food and materials to communities recovering from war and natural disasters. Lean more at www.mcc.org.
Paper Flower Making
We will make paper flowers for patients at an area hospital. These cheerful tokens will brighten the days of a broad range of patients.
House Renovation for Inn Dwelling
7th and 8th graders handy with a hammer are needed for a house renovation project for Inn Dwelling, non-profit corporation dedicated to assisting poor families in the Germantown and Northeast sections of Philadelphia. Interested students will need a signed permission slip and should come dressed in warm work clothes.
Tree Lab Clean Up
Teachers supervised students in cleaning up the Tree Lab.
Pictures from the day:
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| Justin was the sound recorder for the books we've read |
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| The Bee practising her book, Whistle for Willie |
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| The Bee hanging with friends, waiting for their time to record |
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| The group packing care bags |
Hope you had a productive day as well.
-r
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Write a Review Wednesday: All Aboard! Elijah McCoy's Steam Engine
With Black History Month right around the corner, Monica Kulling's book, All Aboard! Elijah McCoy's Steam Engine is a charming introduction to inventor Elijah McCoy. Born the son of slaves, Elijah had a love of machines from an early age. His parents saved their money so that he could be educated in Scotland. Upon his return, he dreamed of a job as an engineer only to be turned down because he was Black. While working at the only job he could get, as a coal shoveler, he eventually came up with a safer and more efficient way to help engines run.
This book was a gift from Tundra Books during 2010's Blogfest. If you'd like a copy of your own, visit your local library or check out Tundra Book's website.
*Black history month is coming up as I said and I have a few ideas that I will be trying out! Stay tuned!
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| Picture taken from Tundra Books website |
General Considerations:
The book begins with a haunting poem that both describes a history of Elijah's parents, slaves who escaped to Canada from the Underground Railroad. The story is hopeful; despite being rejected because of his color, Elijah perseveres and comes up with an idea that makes trains run more efficiently. Although the text is simple and intended for younger readers, seasoned readers will enjoy and appreciate this story and clamor for more. The illustrations by Bill Slavin are beautiful and complement the story. The illustrations enrich the text and show a positive image of a Black man (something I feel is often missing in children's literature).
The book also includes a history on the phrase 'The Real McCoy' and the impressive amount of inventions created by Elijah. Parents and children will love this story and will be pleased with a new hero.
This book was a gift from Tundra Books during 2010's Blogfest. If you'd like a copy of your own, visit your local library or check out Tundra Book's website.
*Black history month is coming up as I said and I have a few ideas that I will be trying out! Stay tuned!
Snowy Blowy Day
In which I admit that I am a space saver.
Snowmania is upon us once again in the Delaware Valley. I was all set to have another snow day but oh feathers...the powers that be decided that my district's schools (and in turn my library) were to open after a two hour delay. After a mini tantrum I bundled up, popped in my headphones and headed out to make my way to work.
When I was living with Mom there were no shortage of enterprising youth who wanted to make a buck or 20 by shoveling our walk, the driveway, brushing my car off and a nifty path so that I could drive without slipping down the driveway. I incorrectly assumed that the same would happen in the city. Sucker! That first snow storm The Bee and I waited on baited breath for the bell to ring by some enterprising kid, a jack leg, or something in between to shovel us out. While I have made my dislike, nee hate of shoveling known I would have gladly picked one up...had I a shovel. I wrongly identified a rake as a shovel thus proving I need glasses and more observation skills. Anywho, instead of being damsels in distress, The Bee and I bundled up and tromped through the Snow to purchase one from the ubiquitous Papi stores that pepper our new neighborhood. One of my neighbors had actually taken the time to shovel us out but after he had gotten hit by an fallen icicle decided that the foot wide path would have to do. No complaints; he shoveled my car out and what I had left to shovel was NO big deal.
The second snow snore I was able to darn near sweep the snow away the snow melted so fast. With a sprinkle of ice melt and a few half hearted scrapes the front was clear, we could get in and out of the parking spot and it was no big. This particular day The Bee and I shoveled and cleared snow in about 15 minutes and still had time to watch the end of a Top Model marathon and eat waffles. But again, no enterprising youth, jack legs or in betweens rang the bell to make a buck or two.
Today, despite wearing my pajamas inside out, a spoon under the pillow and just plain wishin', I still had to report to work*. Oh bother...After a minor meltdown I went on out shoveled and salted and left a chair in my spot. Yup. I'm one of those. I realize that I live in the city with street parking but heck, I spent 45 minutes digging out my spot and I'd like to be able to park when I come home. No, I don't own the street. Yes, I should live someplace with a driveway or garage. Yes, it's silly but parking is of a premium, I spent 45 minutes shoveling, salting and scraping and I'll be darned if the lady in the next block who parks in front of my house nightly because "the boys on her block are bad and bother her car" or the family with the three luxury vehicles who all seem to park with a buffer zone around their cars thus making anyone else able to park will deny me the ability to find parking.**
There was recently an article posted on the NBC Philadelphia website about this very issue. The comments range from support to those who disagree to those who judge (get a driveway). Whatever. When I am trying to be zen about things, yes, it IS just a parking space however when people aren't fair or reasonable about parking, then all bets are off. There are a few rules that I have created on my own:
1) holding a spot is OK the first day or two but after that, all bets are off. Of course since this is my singular thought I often find myself parking on the side street near a mountain of blackened ice and snow.
2) If I do park in a spot when visiting someone, I will leave a note in my car telling them where I am so that they can ring the bell before letting the air out of my tire. This has not happened but shucks, someone got shot over a parking space before!
3) Parking in public areas like the school near Buffy's or a parking lot if available. That may be wrong in the sense that I am not using that service but it's not like I'm there for the night.
4) Respect. If I see that my neighbor has shoveled, then of course I am going to find another place to park during the height of the storm. It's only fair and considerate.
My neighborhood is not totally the pits but parking is an issue even in the best weather conditions. Hell, living in a row home (townhouses depending on the income level) means that you either park in the back or take your chances on the street. I wish I could be all zen about parking. In the scheme of things it's just a spot and if I wanted the luxury of convenient parking I should move to a spot with an attached garage. Since that is not an option at this point, I'm gathering my chairs and hoping people will be fair.
If the city decided to enforce this law (which I understand is already on the books) I would hope that there would be some help for us folk. Snow shoveling is a pain. Snow shoveling after a plow has buried your car is worse. I can only imagine the fight for parking. I probably would stay with my mom until the (snow) dust settled.
And oh, it appears that I am NOT alone. Along the street there were recycling bins, chairs, cones and crates galore with people staking out their cleared spots.
Counting down to Spring,
-r
*I am totally grateful for employment but I had a whole snow list! Hooking, cooking and booking! Plus some laundry folding, few chores and a nap.
**Yup. It's that deep
Snowmania is upon us once again in the Delaware Valley. I was all set to have another snow day but oh feathers...the powers that be decided that my district's schools (and in turn my library) were to open after a two hour delay. After a mini tantrum I bundled up, popped in my headphones and headed out to make my way to work.
When I was living with Mom there were no shortage of enterprising youth who wanted to make a buck or 20 by shoveling our walk, the driveway, brushing my car off and a nifty path so that I could drive without slipping down the driveway. I incorrectly assumed that the same would happen in the city. Sucker! That first snow storm The Bee and I waited on baited breath for the bell to ring by some enterprising kid, a jack leg, or something in between to shovel us out. While I have made my dislike, nee hate of shoveling known I would have gladly picked one up...had I a shovel. I wrongly identified a rake as a shovel thus proving I need glasses and more observation skills. Anywho, instead of being damsels in distress, The Bee and I bundled up and tromped through the Snow to purchase one from the ubiquitous Papi stores that pepper our new neighborhood. One of my neighbors had actually taken the time to shovel us out but after he had gotten hit by an fallen icicle decided that the foot wide path would have to do. No complaints; he shoveled my car out and what I had left to shovel was NO big deal.
The second snow snore I was able to darn near sweep the snow away the snow melted so fast. With a sprinkle of ice melt and a few half hearted scrapes the front was clear, we could get in and out of the parking spot and it was no big. This particular day The Bee and I shoveled and cleared snow in about 15 minutes and still had time to watch the end of a Top Model marathon and eat waffles. But again, no enterprising youth, jack legs or in betweens rang the bell to make a buck or two.
Today, despite wearing my pajamas inside out, a spoon under the pillow and just plain wishin', I still had to report to work*. Oh bother...After a minor meltdown I went on out shoveled and salted and left a chair in my spot. Yup. I'm one of those. I realize that I live in the city with street parking but heck, I spent 45 minutes digging out my spot and I'd like to be able to park when I come home. No, I don't own the street. Yes, I should live someplace with a driveway or garage. Yes, it's silly but parking is of a premium, I spent 45 minutes shoveling, salting and scraping and I'll be darned if the lady in the next block who parks in front of my house nightly because "the boys on her block are bad and bother her car" or the family with the three luxury vehicles who all seem to park with a buffer zone around their cars thus making anyone else able to park will deny me the ability to find parking.**
There was recently an article posted on the NBC Philadelphia website about this very issue. The comments range from support to those who disagree to those who judge (get a driveway). Whatever. When I am trying to be zen about things, yes, it IS just a parking space however when people aren't fair or reasonable about parking, then all bets are off. There are a few rules that I have created on my own:
1) holding a spot is OK the first day or two but after that, all bets are off. Of course since this is my singular thought I often find myself parking on the side street near a mountain of blackened ice and snow.
2) If I do park in a spot when visiting someone, I will leave a note in my car telling them where I am so that they can ring the bell before letting the air out of my tire. This has not happened but shucks, someone got shot over a parking space before!
3) Parking in public areas like the school near Buffy's or a parking lot if available. That may be wrong in the sense that I am not using that service but it's not like I'm there for the night.
4) Respect. If I see that my neighbor has shoveled, then of course I am going to find another place to park during the height of the storm. It's only fair and considerate.
My neighborhood is not totally the pits but parking is an issue even in the best weather conditions. Hell, living in a row home (townhouses depending on the income level) means that you either park in the back or take your chances on the street. I wish I could be all zen about parking. In the scheme of things it's just a spot and if I wanted the luxury of convenient parking I should move to a spot with an attached garage. Since that is not an option at this point, I'm gathering my chairs and hoping people will be fair.
If the city decided to enforce this law (which I understand is already on the books) I would hope that there would be some help for us folk. Snow shoveling is a pain. Snow shoveling after a plow has buried your car is worse. I can only imagine the fight for parking. I probably would stay with my mom until the (snow) dust settled.
And oh, it appears that I am NOT alone. Along the street there were recycling bins, chairs, cones and crates galore with people staking out their cleared spots.
Counting down to Spring,
-r
*I am totally grateful for employment but I had a whole snow list! Hooking, cooking and booking! Plus some laundry folding, few chores and a nap.
**Yup. It's that deep
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
The Momster in Me
Last week I had the opportunity to listen to an amazing interview on my NPR affiliate, WHYY, Robin Young from Here and Now interviewed psychiatrist Dr. Barbara Almond about Dr. Almond's new book called The Monster Within: The Hidden Side Of Motherhood.
Good Golly Miss Molly!
I swear I could have written this book or at least served as material for several chapters! Washing up the dishes I hung on to every word thinking about just how this interview and book spoke to me. I felt myself getting weepy thinking of how someone, somewhere FINALLY heard the cry of women and whether or not Dr. Almond will ever know my feelings about that term MOTHERHOOD: ambivalent, conflicted, overjoyed and overwhelmed were being validated by a complete stranger.
When The Dad and I found out I was pregnant* we we overjoyed. There was a small sliver of me that felt totally overwhelmed and frightened but knew that there was no turning around. Once The Bee was born I was excited, ecstatic as I realized that there was a little person that I would nurture and care. Someone that I was going to help mold and shape to be a productive person. However many sleepless nights would find me near tears as I worried about this little person who was trusting me to take care of her. Buffy gave me a copy of a book of essays called Child of Mine and I read each essay voraciously devouring the words of these women who spoke honestly about how their lives had changed with the introduction of a child, someone who demanded all of their time and attention. The Bee was a relatively 'easy' baby but the sudden violent change in my life caused me to wonder if I was doing motherhood all wrong. Exhausted and hungry (cause God knows kids seem to sense when you are going to sit down for a hot meal) I worried that I was doing 'being a mother' wrong and reached out to family and friends. When I spoke to The Dad about these things but he would blow me off instructing me to get over myself and do what I had to do. My mom was equally unsympathetic. She would ply me with stories of having two babies at once and let me know that she was younger and did it so I should be happy with one and settle in. Friends were more empathetic, sharing their own tales of Mommy woes but no one seemed to share my fears.
Feeling guilty (shocker!) that I dared feel this way I threw myself into making myself uber mom. I pushed any feelings about me aside and concentrated all on The Bee**. The Bee was my partner as we traveled the world around, we visited museums, libraries and other places to make sure she was enriched and immersed. I scoured thrift shops and consignment stores so that I could get books to fill her book shelves. Anything to counter any negative motherhood feelings that I had. So years later, thinking I had made peace with motherhood and that I had found a balance I held my breath while I listened to Dr. Almond calmly but confidently tell Robin that yes indeed, mothers feel conflicted, it's normal and SHOULD be expressed and that these thoughts would not make me a bad mother.
Jokingly I always bitch that babies don't come with an instruction booklet stapled to their butts and the books that are there to help do nothing but make women feel insecure. Well at least they made me feel insecure. It wasn't until my library gig that a mom told me that motherhood was a hard job and that it does indeed suck at times. How I handled the feelings that I had was what helped me survive.
Ahh!
I'm waiting for my book to arrive so that I can actually read more of Dr. Almonds findings and I encourage anyone who is a mother to listen to the interview. Ten minutes can possibly change your perspective It changed mine.
-r
* I refuse to say that 'We got pregnant' as i was the one who got sick.
**This lasted for a while but eventually I found a balance
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Hoarder in training?
Last night Buffy, Pop and Dill came over to hang out with The Bee and me. Upon entering the house Buffy ranted about the temperature* for longer than was warranted, played with my cat and proceeded to bitch about the cat's attack on her yarn and then she started a diatribe about my house, the stuff I have everywhere**, how I am a hoarder in training and a score of other things that simultaneously embarrassed, empowered and frustrated me. After she had left and The Bee fell asleep in that instant way which always scares me, I took a look around and tried to see my surroundings through her eyes:
Cat...check
Collections of random crap...check.
Piles of things that 'I'm going to get to'..check
Inexplicable attachment to stuff...check.
Holey Hockey Mom!
I may be a hoarder!
Not the extreme 'dead-cats-rabbits-in-walls-droppings-that-create-a-layer-on-the-floor-piles-of-old-garbage type of hoarder that seem to be sensationally presented on A&E but the fun kind that is often presented on the Style channel's Clean House (anyone who wants to do a makeover can come on over!).
There are a plethora of Hoarding shows available to watch:
The original (for me at least) A&E's Hoarders, the one that causes my Twitter timeline to blow up with people ewwing and illing at the nastiness uncovered in American homes.
TLC's Hoarding...Buried Alive. Not quite as sensationalized but eww worthy nonetheless.
Style channel's Clean House which rewards the disorganized folks with new home furnishings after the subject is guilted into giving up possessions.
Animal Hoarding. I've never watched but feel that I can properly tell from the title that animals may or may not be hoarded.
Extreme Couponing in which people are so busy chasing the high from saving that one person had enough toilet paper for three years!
And Oprah even has a very polite version with Peter Walsh.
Watching the show I always feel better about myself, especially when I am indulging in a game of "At least I" as in, yes I may have piles of books stacked up but at least I am reading them. I have a cat but at least you can't smell her. The show can be repulsive at times. Watching I am frustrated and sympathetic towards the subjects. These people have an unnatural attachment to stuff...old food, bits of papers and mail, other ridiculous attachments that seem to make no sense. They are so protective of their belongings that I get frustrated with the attachments that they have and their insistence to keep things, the desire to demand people respect ten year piles of moldy paper although I draw the line at the attachment these people have over bug infested boxes or toys covered in layers of mouse droppings. Yet as my sister grabbed a bag and deemed a perched precariously pile of papers trash I got defensive. Who did she think she was to take my things and throw them out?
In the light of the day I have been able to take another look at things. There isn't trash piled in heaps, I HAVE thinned the piles of books*** and I've been really good about not bringing stuff in. (Lie, I did jack Effin Guy of a sweater last week but I look good in it if I say so myself!). I am not a Hoarder per se but the tendencies may be there.
Since one of my resolutions speak to this very subject I am pleased to report that I have gathered all of my reusable shopping totes to be repurposed at work, the books that I have been 'meaning to go through' will be used for a program at work and my library bag (not be confused with my work bag) is packed and ready.
As I type I'm watching Hoarders, I need the visual to keep me motivated. I feel like I should have taken a before and after picture. Next time I suppose.
Wish me luck and holla at me if you see me bringing home extra crap.
Purging and filing and repurposing,
-r
*a shock as I am always the one who is cold
** Guilty as charged! I do have to cop to having crap everywhere.
***Some books I sent home with Pop. Buffy you and all of your talk can suck it!
Cat...check
Collections of random crap...check.
Piles of things that 'I'm going to get to'..check
Inexplicable attachment to stuff...check.
Holey Hockey Mom!
I may be a hoarder!
Not the extreme 'dead-cats-rabbits-in-walls-droppings-that-create-a-layer-on-the-floor-piles-of-old-garbage type of hoarder that seem to be sensationally presented on A&E but the fun kind that is often presented on the Style channel's Clean House (anyone who wants to do a makeover can come on over!).
There are a plethora of Hoarding shows available to watch:
The original (for me at least) A&E's Hoarders, the one that causes my Twitter timeline to blow up with people ewwing and illing at the nastiness uncovered in American homes.
TLC's Hoarding...Buried Alive. Not quite as sensationalized but eww worthy nonetheless.
Style channel's Clean House which rewards the disorganized folks with new home furnishings after the subject is guilted into giving up possessions.
Animal Hoarding. I've never watched but feel that I can properly tell from the title that animals may or may not be hoarded.
Extreme Couponing in which people are so busy chasing the high from saving that one person had enough toilet paper for three years!
And Oprah even has a very polite version with Peter Walsh.
Watching the show I always feel better about myself, especially when I am indulging in a game of "At least I" as in, yes I may have piles of books stacked up but at least I am reading them. I have a cat but at least you can't smell her. The show can be repulsive at times. Watching I am frustrated and sympathetic towards the subjects. These people have an unnatural attachment to stuff...old food, bits of papers and mail, other ridiculous attachments that seem to make no sense. They are so protective of their belongings that I get frustrated with the attachments that they have and their insistence to keep things, the desire to demand people respect ten year piles of moldy paper although I draw the line at the attachment these people have over bug infested boxes or toys covered in layers of mouse droppings. Yet as my sister grabbed a bag and deemed a perched precariously pile of papers trash I got defensive. Who did she think she was to take my things and throw them out?
In the light of the day I have been able to take another look at things. There isn't trash piled in heaps, I HAVE thinned the piles of books*** and I've been really good about not bringing stuff in. (Lie, I did jack Effin Guy of a sweater last week but I look good in it if I say so myself!). I am not a Hoarder per se but the tendencies may be there.
Since one of my resolutions speak to this very subject I am pleased to report that I have gathered all of my reusable shopping totes to be repurposed at work, the books that I have been 'meaning to go through' will be used for a program at work and my library bag (not be confused with my work bag) is packed and ready.
As I type I'm watching Hoarders, I need the visual to keep me motivated. I feel like I should have taken a before and after picture. Next time I suppose.
Wish me luck and holla at me if you see me bringing home extra crap.
Purging and filing and repurposing,
-r
*a shock as I am always the one who is cold
** Guilty as charged! I do have to cop to having crap everywhere.
***Some books I sent home with Pop. Buffy you and all of your talk can suck it!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
MLK Day of Service 2011 Events
Wow! This year will mark the 16th annual Greater Philadelphia Martin Luther King day of service. When I was a kid, MLK day meant sleeping in, being glad that I didn't live in Arizona (MLK Day was not a holiday) and later in the day we would listen to the "I Have a Dream Speech" on PBS. In this more civic minded generation there has been a plethora of activities to mark the day.
Each year The Bee's school has a day of service. Projects range from coloring flowers to be attached to bags for shut ins to creating personal care kits for countries affected by natural disasters to cleaning up the neighborhood. This year my mom got an invite to create a special grandparent's collage for this event.
Aww!
The Bee sings in the chorus and the group will perform. A delicious breakfast and lunch are served and it's just a wonderful, positive day for everyone.
My library is closed for the holiday and with my committment with The Bee's school I nver hosted an event. This year one of our partners has created a reading day.
Children ages 5-12 are invited on Monday, January 17th from 10:00 AM- 11:00 AM, the Friendship Circle Senior Center located at 1515 Lansdowne Ave., Darby, PA (on the campus of Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital) will host a reading.
Friendship Circle Senior Center book club members and center participants will be reading a story book that discusses Dr. King’s lasting contributions and helps us remember why we’re making January 17th “A Day on, Not a Day off!”
A coloring activity and snack will be provided.
To register your child, please contact Michelle McGowan at 610-237-8100, ext. 25 or via email at mmcgowan@scs-delco.org.
My crochet group will be meeting at the Free Library of Philadelphia's Wynnefield Branch on Saturday, January 15th. In previous years we have made baby hats and squares for preemies and Haitianhurricaine earthquake victims.
This library is located at 5325 Overbrook Avenue, 19131-1498 and can be reached at 215-685-0298.
In Upper Darby the Upper Darby School District, in cooperation with Community Churches and the Lansdowne YMCA, is hosting the tenth annual celebration honoring the legacy and spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The event will take place at The Drexelbrook on Monday, January 17, 2011 from 8:00-9:30AM. The program includes a guest speaker, student essay presentations, and a buffet breakfast. The cost is $20 for adults and $10 for children 18 and under.
Please call Ms. Brazunas at DHMS (610-853-4580 ext. 460) if you would like tickets or more information.
After the breakfast, those who wish can volunteer at Drexel Hill Middle School to create “Dream Boxes.” Our Dream Boxes will be filled with toiletries and other necessities for the Upper Darby Food Bank to give to their needy families. Donations will be accepted at DHMS through January 14th.
If you cannot attend any of these events check out the Greater Philadelphia MLK Day of Service website, twitter feed or Facebook page. Perhaps you can consider hosting your own event for 2012?
Gearing up for my day on, not off,
-r
Each year The Bee's school has a day of service. Projects range from coloring flowers to be attached to bags for shut ins to creating personal care kits for countries affected by natural disasters to cleaning up the neighborhood. This year my mom got an invite to create a special grandparent's collage for this event.
Aww!
The Bee sings in the chorus and the group will perform. A delicious breakfast and lunch are served and it's just a wonderful, positive day for everyone.
My library is closed for the holiday and with my committment with The Bee's school I nver hosted an event. This year one of our partners has created a reading day.
Children ages 5-12 are invited on Monday, January 17th from 10:00 AM- 11:00 AM, the Friendship Circle Senior Center located at 1515 Lansdowne Ave., Darby, PA (on the campus of Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital) will host a reading.
Friendship Circle Senior Center book club members and center participants will be reading a story book that discusses Dr. King’s lasting contributions and helps us remember why we’re making January 17th “A Day on, Not a Day off!”
A coloring activity and snack will be provided.
To register your child, please contact Michelle McGowan at 610-237-8100, ext. 25 or via email at mmcgowan@scs-delco.org.
My crochet group will be meeting at the Free Library of Philadelphia's Wynnefield Branch on Saturday, January 15th. In previous years we have made baby hats and squares for preemies and Haitian
This library is located at 5325 Overbrook Avenue, 19131-1498 and can be reached at 215-685-0298.
In Upper Darby the Upper Darby School District, in cooperation with Community Churches and the Lansdowne YMCA, is hosting the tenth annual celebration honoring the legacy and spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The event will take place at The Drexelbrook on Monday, January 17, 2011 from 8:00-9:30AM. The program includes a guest speaker, student essay presentations, and a buffet breakfast. The cost is $20 for adults and $10 for children 18 and under.
Please call Ms. Brazunas at DHMS (610-853-4580 ext. 460) if you would like tickets or more information.
After the breakfast, those who wish can volunteer at Drexel Hill Middle School to create “Dream Boxes.” Our Dream Boxes will be filled with toiletries and other necessities for the Upper Darby Food Bank to give to their needy families. Donations will be accepted at DHMS through January 14th.
If you cannot attend any of these events check out the Greater Philadelphia MLK Day of Service website, twitter feed or Facebook page. Perhaps you can consider hosting your own event for 2012?
Gearing up for my day on, not off,
-r
Write a Review Wednesday: A Fabulous Fair Alphabet
r's note: Blogger was acting a fool yesterday and I wasn't able to post. That and my wicked time management skills also prevented me from posting. Either way, sorry for the late review!
I am a sucker for an alphabet book so I was pleased to snag a copy of Debra Frasier's "A Fabulous Fair Alphabet". Inspired by the sights she experienced at the county fair, this book is an explosion of vivid colors. Each letter represents an activity or area associated with the county fair and forget lazy letters sitting idly on the page. The letters pop and almost leap of of the page to engage readers. Forget 'A' being for apple, or 'Z' for Zebra ( and the equally annoying 'Zzzzzzzzz') in this book we are treated to juicy vocabulary while we are transported to the fair. Of my favorite pages, I particularly enjoyed 'R' which boasts a roller coaster made of 'R's' roaring across a track and 'I' for ice cream with the letter 'I' sprinkled over the page like a yummy topping.
General Considerations:
This book is great for a range of ages. For the youngest readers the letters splashed across the page are a terrific introduction to the alphabet or supplement for learned letters. Older readers will enjoy the activity of the letters. For example 'S' (for slide) slips down a huge slide and 'Q' (for quilt) showcases blocks of 'Q's' that look like a quilt*.
When reading aloud, I first read through the suggested script from Debra's website. I liked using the script she provided but I also enjoyed reading the book as if I were a carnival announcer and calling out each letter. In addition to the script, there are ideas and activities for schools and libraries, suggestions for companion books and some games. What a stunning treat!
Check it out from your library or purchase it directly from Debra's website.
Getting ready for the fair,
-r
*I can already foresee a program of collages, photos and more to make personalized books.
I am a sucker for an alphabet book so I was pleased to snag a copy of Debra Frasier's "A Fabulous Fair Alphabet". Inspired by the sights she experienced at the county fair, this book is an explosion of vivid colors. Each letter represents an activity or area associated with the county fair and forget lazy letters sitting idly on the page. The letters pop and almost leap of of the page to engage readers. Forget 'A' being for apple, or 'Z' for Zebra ( and the equally annoying 'Zzzzzzzzz') in this book we are treated to juicy vocabulary while we are transported to the fair. Of my favorite pages, I particularly enjoyed 'R' which boasts a roller coaster made of 'R's' roaring across a track and 'I' for ice cream with the letter 'I' sprinkled over the page like a yummy topping.
General Considerations:
This book is great for a range of ages. For the youngest readers the letters splashed across the page are a terrific introduction to the alphabet or supplement for learned letters. Older readers will enjoy the activity of the letters. For example 'S' (for slide) slips down a huge slide and 'Q' (for quilt) showcases blocks of 'Q's' that look like a quilt*.
When reading aloud, I first read through the suggested script from Debra's website. I liked using the script she provided but I also enjoyed reading the book as if I were a carnival announcer and calling out each letter. In addition to the script, there are ideas and activities for schools and libraries, suggestions for companion books and some games. What a stunning treat!
Check it out from your library or purchase it directly from Debra's website.
Getting ready for the fair,
-r
*I can already foresee a program of collages, photos and more to make personalized books.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Facebook Like You Back
Want more traffic for your blog?
Do you Facebook?
Here is a great opportunity for you!
I am participating in a Facebook Like-You-Back hosted by Kelly’s Lucky You, Simply Stacie, Stockpiling Moms, Heavenly Mommy and Baby Cachet!
Are you looking for new Facebook pages to follow and new friends who like your page? Then join in on the fun!
1. Add your Facebook page to the MckLinky (you only have to add it to one and it will appear on all).
2. Click on the Facebook link for the five hostesses and “like” them on Facebook. Leave a comment on their wall and they will like-you-back.
3. Like as many more Facebook pages as you want, leaving comments with links so they’ll know where to like-you-back.
Want to help spread the word and add this MckLinky to your blog?
Write your own post telling your readers about FLYB. Below the linky box, you’ll see “Want to be a part of this Blog Hop? Click here for instructions and code”. You can also find the code for the Facebook Like-You-Back Button on the sidebar at the right.
The Facebook Page of the Week is Bride’s Paperie! She takes the #6 spot on the linky and will get a shout out on each of the hostesses Facebook pages! Next week’s page of the week will be drawn from all of the entries from this week’s hop.
Thank you for participating and let’s have fun!
By the way let's thank the hosts of the FLYB! Tthey would LOVE have you stop and here’s where they are:
Kelly’s Lucky You
Simply Stacie
Stockpiling Moms
Heavenly Mommy
Baby Cachet
Please link up directly to your Facebook page only. All other links will be deleted.
This is a Blog Hop! 18 entries so far... you're next!
Do you Facebook?
Here is a great opportunity for you!
I am participating in a Facebook Like-You-Back hosted by Kelly’s Lucky You, Simply Stacie, Stockpiling Moms, Heavenly Mommy and Baby Cachet!
Are you looking for new Facebook pages to follow and new friends who like your page? Then join in on the fun!
1. Add your Facebook page to the MckLinky (you only have to add it to one and it will appear on all).
2. Click on the Facebook link for the five hostesses and “like” them on Facebook. Leave a comment on their wall and they will like-you-back.
3. Like as many more Facebook pages as you want, leaving comments with links so they’ll know where to like-you-back.
Want to help spread the word and add this MckLinky to your blog?
Write your own post telling your readers about FLYB. Below the linky box, you’ll see “Want to be a part of this Blog Hop? Click here for instructions and code”. You can also find the code for the Facebook Like-You-Back Button on the sidebar at the right.
The Facebook Page of the Week is Bride’s Paperie! She takes the #6 spot on the linky and will get a shout out on each of the hostesses Facebook pages! Next week’s page of the week will be drawn from all of the entries from this week’s hop.
Thank you for participating and let’s have fun!
By the way let's thank the hosts of the FLYB! Tthey would LOVE have you stop and here’s where they are:
Kelly’s Lucky You
Simply Stacie
Stockpiling Moms
Heavenly Mommy
Baby Cachet
Please link up directly to your Facebook page only. All other links will be deleted.
This is a Blog Hop! 18 entries so far... you're next!
Monday, January 3, 2011
Yes. I am a cliche.
Introducing Liliana Cupcake!
Two weeks ago I again heard the scratch, scratch, scratch as well as observed some scurrying that had me screaming like a two year old girl. The Bee famously** left the lunch I packed for her in the bag that she had carried that day in the porch and it had attracted a mouse. Each time I would relax I would hear it scratching again. Despite being a grown woman of considerable size, I was still whimpering like a baby as I threw a dozen shoes at the noise, carried a pot and pan to bang on whenever I walked through the house and harassed poor Effin Guy and anyone else who possessed night owl tendencies as I would chat them up on the telephone for hours as my body would refuse to relax and I would find myself scared and my sleepness nights now were due to a tiny mouse as opposed to my massive other worries.
Don't stop reading...
 |
| Liliana standing near said clutter |
My housekeeping skills suck monkey balls as anyone who knows me will agree. However I am more of a sloppy type and my messes are more like piles of books all over the place, baskets overflowing with half completed yarn things and reams of papers and files from ideas that I want to try. I try to keep food stuff in its place so naturally I was a bit skeeved and truly perturbed when I heard the scratch, scratch, scratch that comes with a critter. The first time I saw said critter The Bee and I were home from school and work and she pointed to one hiding out under some boxes. That day I did a whole cleaning thing, got rid of clutter that I had had sitting around and called my exterminator who promptly laid traps and poison. For a while The Bee and I were uber careful and neat to the point of compulsion. Dishes washed and cleaned as soon as we ate, floors swept and mopped* along with meals and a general decluttering of the crap that I had been moving from room to room in the hopes that 'someone could use it' and 'I need to get to the Salvation Army' but despite driving past it on my way to Mom's never quite loading the car.
Two weeks ago I again heard the scratch, scratch, scratch as well as observed some scurrying that had me screaming like a two year old girl. The Bee famously** left the lunch I packed for her in the bag that she had carried that day in the porch and it had attracted a mouse. Each time I would relax I would hear it scratching again. Despite being a grown woman of considerable size, I was still whimpering like a baby as I threw a dozen shoes at the noise, carried a pot and pan to bang on whenever I walked through the house and harassed poor Effin Guy and anyone else who possessed night owl tendencies as I would chat them up on the telephone for hours as my body would refuse to relax and I would find myself scared and my sleepness nights now were due to a tiny mouse as opposed to my massive other worries.
Don't stop reading...
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