Teacher Appreciation Week

Thank you to all the WONDERFUL TEACHERS out there- if we didn't have you we wouldn't be where we are today!  I know we all have a couple teachers that will always be a part of us!

My kids have been very lucky to come across AWESOME teachers that are now some of my closest friends.  As much as this school drives me crazy I'm very thankful for the teachers because my kids are doing very well in school and this is their foundation of life so I want to give a big :

from the Allen's!  We Heart Our Teachers!!!  It takes a village people and I'm all good with that!

Focus Focus Focus!

But I can't!!  I feel like I'm stretched in many different directions and I need to learn how to manage this because I right now I'm feeling like I'm loosing the battle. 
I might be fighting off a bit of depression (just being real) because I did quit my job and now having no money coming in.  It's been a LONG TIME since I've had to rely on someone else and its killing me! 

I can't seem to want to do anything but watch TV and read.  Housework is falling behind and what I NEED to do is not getting done.  Also I've been drinking a lot of soda/pop and that was a habit I kicked awhile back.  So I do know depression is knocking on the door!

I'm doing a lot for the school lately (lately....lol)and so I need to be on top of that!  Teacher Appreciation Week- biggest hurdle was today and it was a success so I can breathe a bit now!  But today I need to sit down and get on the Book Fair stuff..timeline and get fliers out and all that good stuff!  Let's not forget Bay to Breakers- ordering the shirts and all that stuff that needs to get done by May 15th.  I do have a parent who offered to help with that so WOOHOO- because I have no idea how to do this event. 

As for finding a JOB....well that is in the thinking process.  I would like to work on the Social Media biz during the week and set up with hubby on the weekends with his airbrushing.  That's what I want but will that happen, not sure!  I need to do something but do I want go back to waitressing....no way!  But what else do I know how to do...besides be a mom (which doesn't pay) ugh why does life have to be so darn confusing!

Time management is what I need now and maybe an assistant :)

Thanks for listening to my rant. 

Talking in Front of People

Tonight is the night that I get up in front of the staff of a local cafe that I did a customer service evaluation on.  Hope they don't spit in my coffee next time I come (that will be tomorrow).  I was honest but also gave much praise.  I'm a bit scared but I'm not dwelling on it because than I will stress and when I stress I tend to over think then its all bad.  My report is done, bullet points on what I want to talk about, and the next step is to decide on what to wear.
The cafe I did this for is an awesome place that I've been going to for a long time (ok 2 years) because it's by my kids school.  I've held book clubs, parent meetings, business meeting, breakfast with kids and always enjoy my experience but there is that "extra" care that is needed.

My close friend told me the other day she doesn't feel "cool enough" to go in this cafe and I go in because it's so cool!  Not every cafe is going to fit you...weird to think like that but its true.  I don't enjoy going to Starbucks or Peets to hang out but give me a lil hole in the wall and I'm there for hours!  Don't get me wrong I LOVE Starbucks and Peets coffee just not the "feel" of the spot...very clinical/corporate- that's where I don't feel I'm cool enough to be. 

Wish me luck to tonight that I don't spit on someone while talking or worse case just go blank!  I'm going to try to hit them with some humor too just to make sure they know I'm there to help not tattle. 

Spring Bazaar- Fun Family Event

Wimpy Kid Teacher Appreciation and Mother's Day Card made by Ronnell

Their Table:

We held a Spring Bazaar at our school yesterday and my kids had a booth.  Ronnell made the above cards and Sahara she made Tie Dye Shirts and they had a blast. 

Even Hubby ( http://mrairbrushhands.com/) was out there airbrushing: 

This is the shirt he made for me to wear to the bazaar. LOVE IT!

We had a great family day with some awesome friends.

Now on to Teacher Appreciation Week (this week).  I sent out a flyer on ideas on what to do each day....keeping fingers crossed that teachers got flowers today.  Both my kids had their vases in hands when they left for school.

Also this week I need to sit down and plan the Book Fair.  I have help this year (woohoo) and look forward of letting this project go.  I just have the admin responsibilities this year..that's a even bigger WOOHOO!  So I guess I better get off this blog and work on the 10 projects I have going on this week. 

Sibling Rivalry- Getting On My Nerves!

First, I need to say SORRY to my mom because we put her through some crap with all our fighting growing up. It is coming back and biting me hard in the ass. Karma I know. I was horrible to my brother from the moment he was born-sorry bro! 

Anyways, my kids are driving me crazy with the FIGHTING.  My daughter loves to pick on her brother.   My son is patient to a point then he just looses it and then it gets downright UGLY!  My daughter tries all of our patience every day and the "No, I don't have too, who cares, and blah blah blah" are her favorite phases lately plus the rolling of the eyes and the head swaying needs to STOP!  She is 7 not 17!  When they spend too much time together it is horrible.  They don't use their words (like I tell them all the time) but they hit and pick on each other.  Someone is going to get hurt someday and I keep telling them that.  I tell my son hitting girls is wrong...he comes back with "she is my sister not a girl"!  Plus its usually her hitting first. 

The older they get the harder to discipline them...it was easy to take away toys, video games, or just put  them in time out.  Now they don't care..."so what"  is what I get.  Luckily they don't do this everyday because I think I would have to become a drinker again.  I'm saying that with a smile :) 

How do you settle/deal with sibling rivalry? 

My kids and their Book Clubs

Loving the fact that they enjoy  READING!  As a big reader my whole life I'm a proud mama when my kids wanted to do these book clubs.

My 9 yr old son has 3 close friends and they decided to start a book club last month and their first book is Harry Potter.  The first meeting took place at a cafe and we kept getting these weird looks so I decided the next meeting we can do at the school. 

My 7yr old was at the first book club meeting but she isn't at the Harry Potter level so she didn't participate but played Angry Birds on my phone.  When we got home she came up and gave me a big hug and buttered me up with all love then she said "Mom I want to have my own book club and can it be a Dr. Seuss book"  Couple of the kids in Lil Man's book club has siblings so why not!  I told her YES.  She was so excited and even made invites to who she thought would love to the book club.

Today is BOOK CLUB day and so lets see how both clubs go!  I'm just there, the kids run their own meeting...I might step in and help lil mama's group but I'll see. 

KIDS AND READING ROCK!!!

Love My Kids BUT.....

I am SO HAPPY they are going back to school today.  They are at the age they need to be doing something every minute or I get to hear those lovely words I'M BORED.  As a mom I think WTF.. with all the toys/books/bikes they have how in the heck can they bored.  Oh yeah...its because Mom isn't playing with them or we aren't on an adventure.

I enjoy my kids a lot (ask anyone) but I need my space and they don't really allow that when they are at home.  I have work, housework, laundry, cooking to do on top of being my kids personal play-date.  Sounds like I'm bitching but I'm not its my reality.  I can't play with my kids 24/7!  Money doesn't grow on our trees in the backyard like my kids thinks it does.  Mama needs to make the money too!

This week I'm needing to regroup and get back on schedule.  I'm going to be setting up my home office with a friend of mine.  We are going to brainstorm and go into business together- just need to narrow it down and move forward. 

Off to make breakfast and lunches for my beautiful children that are going back to school...can you see the smile????

Kmart Deals ~ April 24th-April 30th

Buy XBOX 360 250GB with Kinect System, receive $60 Gaming Credit valid on next purchase 4/24-4/30

Online Only! Up to 70% off Fine Jewelry + EXTRA 10% off Jewelry orders over $75 4/24-5/7

ALL Furniture, Area Rugs and Accent Rugs on sale; 50% off Essential Home Voile Sheers 4/24-4/30

ALL Microwaves and Coffee Makers on sale 4/24-4/30

Online Only Savings! EXTRA $5 off $50 on Kmart.com with code KM2011 4/17-12/31

Online Only Save on Toys! EXTRA $5 off $50 code KTOYS5; EXTRA $10 off $100 code KTOYS10 4/3-4/30

Weekends...Loving Them

Wow.....I've been really missing out on FAMILY TIME when I worked on weekends.  The past couple weekends that I've been home (since quitting the cafe job of 12 yrs) we have got a lot done around the house.  It makes me feel good to see projects that I've wanted to be completed get done!!  The kids are a big help too.  They love spending time (well thats what they say now) with us and so when I said "Hey Ronnell lets go weed the garden" I got pure excitement and "Let's Go" from my 9 yr old who would rather play video games over any housework....wonder how long this will last.  Well however long I'm going to enjoy it! 

Yesterday,  I cleaned out the fridge....pulled out everything and cleaned all fridge pieces.  It looks brand new but now it looks like we have no food.  The kids BOTH cleaned their rooms with no talking back.  Then we just kicked back and had fun.  Later on we made cupcakes.  I also cooked a bomb a** spaghetti dinner, I felt like Suzie Homemaker. I need a cool apron though.  I think I'm going to design one and have hubby airbrush it.  Simple things..I know, the thought just came to me so I needed to write that so I don't forget.  Mom's Day is coming up.

Today I'm cooking breakfast and Easter dinner.  So Martha Stewart step aside Pam Allen is in the house!  Keeping fingers crossed that I get help with dishes (not my thing LOL).  Hint hint to hubby! 

Also on our schedule today is Easter egg hunt outside, bowling with friends, and getting ready for SCHOOL!  Spring Break is DONE kiddos....time to get back on schedule and Mommy can get some work done. 

Shout out to my readers!

Spring Break 2011

We have a BUSY BUSY week ahead of us and I'm already tired. 

Monday it was raining so we stayed in the house but I cleaned so no relaxing there- oh right it's not my spring break. 

Tuesday was fun filled full day at Lawrence Hall of Science http://lawrencehallofscience.org/

This was a big cement whale they could climb on outside

Floating Globe that showed all kinds of cool weather stuff

The view from LHS.  Little foggy but still beautiful.

The kids had a blast there were so many thing for the kids to do.  After 3 hrs at LHS we went and got pizza then headed to a park to play for 2 hrs.  It was a LONG FUN DAY!

Today we are going to OAKLAND ZOO with some friends. 

Tomorrow is Sahara's 7th Bday and she is hasn't let us forget it either.  For 2 weeks its been a countdown.  And this week all we have heard is "This is my bday week so deal with it"  OH MY!

So tomorrow the plan is movie, pizza, books, ice cream and then party at my friends house (her hubby has the same bday) and then a sleepover.

Friday I'm hoping CHILL DAY!  But with these two kids not sure if that's going to happen buy hey its there Spring Break.  What about your kids Spring Break?



Market Monday~ Mom Etsy Pages

I have a couple friends who have Etsy pages and I want to share their pages with my readers today! 

Mara's Maples: http://www.etsy.com/shop/marasmaples

Maple Curry Cashews these are my FAVORITE item to buy! I don't share with anyone either :)

Chewy Vanilla Granola with Spiced Pecans...  YUMMY YUMMY YUMMY...this might be my favorite too!

Mara's Maples where all the snacks are made with all natural ingredients, Real Maple Syrup, have no added oils or fats, and are completely vegan!  If your interested please visit her Mara's Maples Etsy Page or become a fan on her Facebook Page.  You will love her snacks!

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

Mrs. Maintenance's Frames & More: http://www.etsy.com/shop/mrsmaintenance



This art frame is titled "Autism Awareness." This is an 7.5"x9" photo frame, matted with a handmade art mat for a 5x7 photo. This frame has a theme of autism awareness, with a red, yellow, blue, and teal puzzle pieces, and a red heart on a linen background with subtle hints of silver, and framed in silver. This frame is a tabletop frame. I start with frames purchased at thrift stores, and give them a new coat of paint and a decorative touch to give them a brand new life as Rees-Cycled Art by Anna Rees.

25% of the purchase price of this frame will be donated to autismspeaks.org.


Please visit her Etsy Page plus 15% off anything in her shop using code POETRY.

Becoming a Server/Customer Service Consultant

Its been a whole week since I quit my job and I'm still floating on cloud nine! 

UPDATE: An owner of a cafe I go to weekly had a meeting with me on Wednesday and presented a short term project for me do for his cafe.  Several of my customers at the cafe I used to work at go into this one too so he has heard what an AWESOME waitress I am.  Well of course if you been doing this for as long as I have than you tend to be an expert. 
Anyways back on track.... we had this meeting and he wants to PAY (yes money not coffee- which I offered when he asked what I wanted in pay, lol) me to go in to the his cafe 4x- a morning, afternoon, evening, and brunch shift.  I would stay for a couple hours and observe what can be done better, what they are doing great at, and policies or procedures I think he needs to implement for the cafe to run smoother.  Wow, it took me back for a bit because he wants to pay me for my knowledge of something I do very well.  I wrote up a proposal and he accepted and no I didn't ask for a lifetime of mocha's, I need groceries so I did ask for a dollar amount. 

I did a morning shift yesterday and it went very well.  I did observe a lot and actually enjoyed doing it.  Tomorrow, I go in for a brunch shift.  Next week I will hit a evening and lunch shift.  Then I will write up an report, present it to the cafe owner, we will discuss it then I will present it to the staff at their staff meeting in May. 

I might be onto something for the future...Consultant to Cafe's!  I'll google and see what the correct title is here soon.  But YEAH me for landing a short term paid gig in less than a week of quiting....Go PAM! 

Side note:  Ran into another cafe owner today that wants to revamp her cafe and she wants me to come in on May 2nd to TALK....hmmmm lets see I might be on to something.  But I think she is more into hiring me as running the cafe on weekends.  I don't want to go back working weekends but family might because I've been putting them to work.  They used to play video games/tv all weekend but not these past 2 weekends but the house looks awesome :) but they are a lil pissy with me.

5 Silly Things About Me

Some might ask why only 5...well I don't want to look too SILLY, right!  Not sure why this post idea popped in my head but I'm going to ride with it! 

1.  The best part of going to sleep at night is...flipping my pillow over and feeling the coolness of the pillowcase.

2.  I only eat veggies raw...hate cooked veggies.  (Ok take that back I'll eat corn and green beans- they don't taste good raw)

3. Coffee is my choice for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  I can drink coffee ALL DAY (probably not a good thing) and still fall asleep at 10pm.  Sometimes I throw in some food!

4. I'm 42 and LOVE PINK...oh wait you knew that!  I would so decorate my whole house in pink/black but Hubby says no!  Fine whatever- I'm only allowed (love how I phrased that) pink items on my side of the bedroom.  (who has "his side and her side" we do!!)  Someday I might even take a pic to show you the difference because you can really see how opposite we are.

5. Still thinks she can shake her booty like she is in her 20's!  I was a big clubber from 25-30 (yes my party days) I dance in my house when no one is around. I'm happy no one can see in...and if they could I'm sure I would hear them laughing their ass off!  My kids roll their eyes at me when a song comes on when I'm cooking and I bust out my moves.  My son has asked me not to dance EVER in public....wow a lil harsh dude!  I know I did this with my mom and her singing.

SECRET MILLIONAIRE- I love this Show

First, I'm a big Reality TV fan and probably watch too many of them.   I DVR most of them and watch while my kids/hubby are asleep at night- my guilty pleasure I guess.  Now when shows affect someones life it really tugs at my heart strings and yes I CRY and CRY!

This last Sunday I watched this episode http://abc.go.com/shows/secret-millionaire/episode-detail/ali-brown-venice-calif/749323 and cried my heart out!

If I was able to give back to my community in a big way I would love to open a cafe for the homeless just like the volunteers do at http://www.stjosephctr.org/bread_roses.html  they offer a sit down/take order cafe for the homeless.  I was so impressed because usually its like a cafeteria setting but this allows everyone feel good.  It was so beautiful to watch!  All the charities that were presented were awesome and I LOVE the fact that people are giving to people in need.  I hope this show sparks people who are able to help (in any way) to get out there and volunteer their time and help support their communities! I know it has in me. 

Feel good show!! 

Wacky Wednesday- Finger Lickin Good

OMG when I saw this last night my mouth was open and my eyes where a bit crazy and I think what came out of my mouth was EWWWW.  It was gross and funny but then it was just plain EWWW who does that- oh right Pam its a commercial, duh! 

Twitter Tuesday- Twitter Parties

Twitter Parties: Tuesday, April 12

#TravelTuesdays Chat, 5:30am and 5:30 p.m. ET. Description: "Join this weekly, international Twitter chat to connect with travel-minded tweeps from across the globe! Twice each Tuesday, to accommodate for attendees in different time zones." #TToT

#ZipListLunch Twitter Chat, 1:00 p.m. ET.

Twitter Kitchen Talk, 2:00 p.m. ET. Description: "Join this new weekly Twitter chat hosted by @fbkitchen. Fun conversation & often giveaways too!" #FBKitchen

#NUTS Twitter Chat, 3:30 p.m. ET. Description: "Join Twitter's 'Not-So-Usual Therapy Session with the MidlifeRoadtrip.tv crew. Hosted by @RickGriffin, @McMedia, and @Writerchick47 with different guests and lively topics each week!" #NUTS

Earthquate Preparedness Chat, 4:00 p.m. ET (1 p.m. PST). Description: "Learn how to protect yourself during an earthquake during this one hour Twitter chat presented by the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region & @CaliforniaWatch." #quakeready

#HomeSpaChat, 8:00 p.m. ET. Description: "Join host @ArtoftheSpa for a weekly chat to discuss how to create the spa environment at home! This week's topic: Spring Decorating." #HomeSpaChat

Multigrain Cheerios/Biggest Loser Twitter Party, 8:00 p.m. ET. Description: "Join MultiGrain Cheerios® cereal and NBC's The Biggest Loser® to chat about how you can be your own Biggest Loser." #MGCheerios

Girls' Night Out / Frito Lay Twitter Party, 9:00 - 11:00 p.m. ET. Description: "Join the #GNO panel of experts as they team with @FritoLay to discuss food flavors." #GNO #FritoLay

#Holistic Moms Network Twitter Party, 10:00 p.m. ET. Description: "Join host @HolisticMomsNet for a weekly Twitter party. This week's topic: TBA." #holisticmoms

If you want to see what other parties are happening please go to http://www.tweeparties.com/.  I get a email once a week letting me know about all the parties that I might be interested in. LOVE TWITTER PARTIES!

Market Monday- Custom Art Work

Some of you know that my husband is an airbrush artist and now that I quit my job my main goal now is MARKETING Mr. Airbrush Hands (aka my hubby).

My hubby does a lot of T-shirt airbrushing but any textile that will hold paint, including jeans, denim jackets, leather apparel, pillow cases, and hoodies are always fun to do, well he says that! For Christmas one year we gave pillow cases to all the kids- guess what they loved them!  Here are some examples:

This is one of my favorite pics he has done (besides the portraits of my babies):

His specialty is PORTRAITS:





If you would like to check out more of his work please visit his website: http://mrairbrushhands.com/

Also can see more older work on PhotoBucket.

He does clothing, banners (birthday, graduation, sport, other events), or whatever you want to be painted.  We do take outside of California orders- shipping will be included in price.  If you want to get  a CUSTOM AIRBRUSHED item please let us know.  All Pinkmama's readers will get a 20% off- make sure when you order you let us know! 

Loving my Magic Bullet Deluxe

Oh we have been enjoying smoothies, icees, margaritas, and iced coffees almost everyday.  We bought this wonderful invention at Costco couple weeks ago and I've been loving it ever since.
I also use it everyday to grind my coffee.  I swear the coffee tastes better too.
I can't wait to try more recipes like salsa, pesto, egg salad, soups, oh the list can go on and on!
Magic Bullet Deluxe Rocks! 

Spin Art

My kids go through toys like they grow on trees.  This toy has got hours and hours (we have had this one for almost 3 yrs ) of playtime.  Phew finally a toy that has earned  its value and more.  

I Quit My Job...Now What???

I did something yesterday that I might regret maybe next week when I need to buy groceries.....but I QUIT my job!  I've been a waitress at this cafe for 12 years on and off (had 2 kids) but for the last 8 years straight!  It's been an experience I will never forget because I have gained some awesome friends and that alone is worth it!

I'm not going to bad mouth them because they treated me good in ways but in some ways it just wasn't right.  With that being said, I'm 42 yrs old and its about time I get out of this business.  I worked Sat/Sun and I wasn't able to move much when I would get back from work. So weekends sucked for the kids because we never did much. 

Now what.....good question!  I plan to throw myself into my social media project that I've been doing very little with and now I have a new refined spark so lets see what I can do!  Also my hubby and I plan to jump on the flea market/art show circuit and this is something we have wanted to do for a long time.  My hubby is a very talented airbrush artist...  http://mrairbrushhands.com/ please check him out!  I'll be doing a post about him soon. 

I'll be blogging more now!  I never could totally commit my time but now I can.  One of my friends said...NOW YOU CAN BLOG FULL-TIME.  Yes I can!

Loving my iPad!

I've been somewhat "GONE" this week because I have a new toy....yes I got my iPad last Friday.  At first I was scared of it...don't laugh its true, I was so gentle with it and put it in its box after maybe 15 minutes being on it.  I was scared of a getting "ATTACHED" so I only did 15 minutes here and there but after a couple days that went out the window, lol!

I LOVE books and read a lot so guess what app is my favorite...yep iBook!  Oh my I've read 4 books so far but I need to slow that down because I just get stuck.  I know iTunes are going to be in my pocketbook!  I did download some free books but.... just not what I want to read.

The kids are enjoying Angry Birds...that's all I will let them use it for now.

Hubby...well he was so nice to let me play with it for a couple days before he got on it.  I'm not sure what he is doing on it but I do see the DJ application.  He keeps asking about downloading Music...go ahead but not your whole iPod collection.

Loving my new gadget and it looks like its going to be fun for blogging but they don't have BLOGGER app...but maneuvering from one page to the next is smooth.  I've been able to comment on other blogs w/o any problems.

What is your favorite iPad app?

America's Next Great Restaurant- Who do you like?

Now I know not everyone is going to like this show but someone who has been in the "BIZ" for a long time (maybe too long) I really enjoy this show.  Not necessary for the contestants they have on there but for the challenges they are competing in each week. 

http://www.nbc.com/americas-next-great-restaurant/

My FAV so far is Sandra.  I like her concept it is unhealthy vs healthy dishes. But she NEEDS a new chef- the investors don't like the taste of the food but love the concept. Better do something Sandy or I foresee you leaving soon and I don't want that!

This week it was about designing their uniform and it was quite funny what some of  the contestants did but some of them did very well. 

Joey and his SAUCY BALLS (wishing he would change the name) was just silly.  He wanted to have a gun but decided to use a big bread stick. 

I was surprised who was eliminated because I like his concept (MeltWorks- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches) but he wasn't willing to listen to the judges which were giving him some great advice.  When your stuck on YOUR concept and someone else wants to change it has to be hard to accept change but still give it a try! 

http://www.nbc.com/americas-next-great-restaurant/bios/eric-powell/

It's a fun Sunday night reality show to watch.  If I wanted to open my own restaurant it would be FAMILY based...like a play area/video games/jukebox and then parents can eat while kids play...oh wait McDonald's and pizzerias's do this already, never mind! 

Do you have a restaurant concept that you would pitch to investors?

OH NO...a grey hair!

FINE....its official I'm old!  Damn, you know how long its been that I've been saying "but I don't have any grey hairs hahahaha" to my hubby who is younger than me and has a lot of grey (sorry).  No fun now :(

My bubble is busted and now I might have to color my beautiful red natural hair someday...just wrong!  I bet if I look longer I will find more.  In my head when I first saw IT (the grey hair) I told myself nah that just a blond highlight...really Pam! I guess whatever it takes...DENIAL DENIAL! 

This was just a lil bump in the road so no worries I'm not going to let this lil grey hair get to me!  Right...keep thinking that Pam...you still look good for your age. 

Getting older sucks some days! 

Guilt Gifts

This doesn't happen that much in my house but I let it happen this time.  My hubby, he is a BIG GAMER and when I say big I mean we have a PlayStation 2, 2 Xbox's and now a PlayStation 3.  Both kids have DS's too.  I shake my head at all this because its not my doing and its a fight I choose not to argue about anymore.  Okay I might say something smarta** here and there but I tend to let this be Dad's domain. 

Granted my hubby does work very hard for his money (so do I LOL) and when he game home with the newest addition to this family (PS3) I was like really we really need that really!  Love all those really's!  But too see how happy he was to get this toy I was like okay whatever (rolling eyes).  He knew I was a bit annoyed so he made his move..."Baby why don't we buy a IPAD?"  My eyes and ears lit up real quick and I said "REALLY?" from that day I was on a mission.  Does it make me feel better about his new toy...SURE DOES!  Guilt Gift! 

We are not rolling in money by any means but we did get our income tax back and we always buy one cool item for the house and this year it is the IPAD. 

We tried everywhere by the way...Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Costco and NO LUCK!  Sold out everywhere and don't know when they will be back in stock.  I was a bit disappointed...why lie I was a lot disappointed!  I was moping around like someone took my favorite teddy bear away, it was quite pathetic! 

So after spending an afternoon looking and almost buying the Sprint Tablet (just because I wanted something) I decided to get onto Apple's website and see just how long it would be to get it from them.  I was quite impressed (even though it was a bit hard to find Ipad 1 info) and found an refurbished Ipad (64) for a nice price and it ships within 24hrs.  Woohoo hot damn so I bought it!  Now sometime this weekend I will be a new Ipad owner...oh wait this was for everyone right?  HAHAHA lets see who has it the most!

I love GUILT GIFTS....do you get guilt gifts??

ME TIME...yep I took some!

I sure did and I know in the mommy world that doesn't happen very often but it is NEEDED.

Last week was a rough one for me physically- I guess getting older means that monthly visit we get takes over my body and doesn't let go until its done.  I was in PAIN for 5 days straight before IT actually came and then it was a fricken roller coaster for everyone in the house.  I would say/do things and in my head yelling STOP because what was coming out of my mouth wasn't really me.  My family bless their heart for dealing with me and thank goodness each month isn't like this (just every 3 months).

Then the kids had a four day weekend.  They are 9 and 6 so they want to do everything.  It's like if we don't have plans for the day they go on protest and just make my life crazy!  They were actually pretty good.  We went shopping, birthday party, friends over (2 days), movies, so they we busy but by Monday afternoon I could tell they were done spending time with each other and they needed to go back to school.  I needed them to go back too...just being honest!

So yesterday when they went to school I looked at the house and said "I'll do it later" got my book and curled up in the comfy couch and READ for 4hrs.  Finished the book!  I did ignore all phones calls/emails and it felt good.  What's 4 hrs right....geez do you know how much blog reading, blog commenting, facebook/twitter time, talking on phone, and the list goes on that I could have done in that time...LOL!  But I know I need these breaks to keep me insane (opps I mean SANE LOL!).  Reading is a joy of mine and so that will always be my first choice of ME time.

What do you do on your ME TIME or do you even take ME TIME?

PinkGirl- Mini PinkMama

Introducing....PinkGirl :)  She is becoming her very own fashionista!  Her new thing is layering shirts, has to have long sleeves under other shirts.  I might be in trouble because she changes her clothes 2-4 times a day.  She will 7 next month but she is more like going on 17.  She has the rolling of the eyes down, pretty bossy, and everything has to be her way.  After typing that I had a WOW moment...she got those traits from me!  Oh noooooooooooo! 

Friday Blogging Fun

If you got a Facebook Page lets connect: http://www.facebook.com/pinkmamasplace

Want more Facebook fans??? Then join Facebook Friday


 

Another Awesome Facebook Link UP: http://thefrugalfreegal.com/2011/03/facebook-friday-link-up-your-facebook-fan-pages-and-follow-others-2/

Blog Hops:

Yoplait Greek Virtual Snack Break

Today is the virtual event ....real soon!  What cool items!  There is a daily meal planner that goes on fridge, cool shopping list holder, reusable grocery bag and the free coupon for a cup of Yoplait Greek.  If it wasn't storming out I would be heading to the store before the event starts in 30 minutes but its all good.  Ill let you know how it tastes in a couple days. 

L'Oreal Paris The One Sweep Eye Shadow and Double Extend Eye Illuminator Mascara BzzCampaign

Just arrived in the mail today.  So excited to do this campaign!  I will.post pictures later.   Woohoo BzzAgent for another fun product to review and let others know. 

T-shirts My Hubby Airbrushed for the Read-a-Thon

I might have mentioned once or twice my hubby is an airbrush artist so I asked him if he would be able to do t-shirts for the kids who read the most in each classroom , as their reward. 

I gave them out today and you should have seen the their smiles!  They gave me hugs and the excitement was wonderful.  I wish we could have done one for each kid. 

My hubby's website:  http://mrairbrushhands.com/ 
You can also LIKE him on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/mrairbrushhands

The Fresh Air Fund is in need of Host Families

Please check out this wonderful summer program for kids in New York.

 You can change a kids life so please visit their site to see how you can  HOST A CHILD

"We made s'mores and hot dogs over the fire. I've never cooked outside before!"

Fresh Air children are boys and girls, six to 18 years old, who live in New York City. Children on first-time visits are six to 12 years old and stay for either one or two weeks. Youngsters who are re-invited by the same family may continue with The Fund through age 18, and many enjoy longer summertime visits, year after year. A visit to the home of a warm and loving volunteer host family can make all the difference in the world to an inner-city child. All it takes to create lifelong memories is laughing in the sunshine and making new friends.

The majority of Fresh Air children are from low-income communities. These are often families without the resources to send their children on summer vacations. Most inner-city youngsters grow up in towering apartment buildings without large, open, outdoor play spaces. Concrete playgrounds cannot replace the freedom of running barefoot through the grass or riding bikes down country lanes.

Fresh Air children are registered by more than 90 participating social service and community organizations located in disadvantaged neighborhoods in the five boroughs of New York City. These community-based agencies are in close contact with children in need of summer experiences in rural and suburban areas. Each agency is responsible for registering children for the program.

What do Fresh Air children enjoy?

• Playing in the backyard
• Laughing in the sunshine
• Catching fireflies
• Riding bicycles
• Learning to swim
• Running barefoot through the grass
• Gazing at the stars on moonlit nights
• Building sandcastles
• Making new friends
• Simple pleasures of life away from the inner-city

About The Fresh Air Fund:
THE FRESH AIR FUND, an independent, not-for-profit agency, has provided free summer vacations to more than 1.7 million New York City children from low-income communities since 1877. Nearly 10,000 New York City children enjoy free Fresh Air Fund programs annually. In 2010, close to 5,000 children visited volunteer host families in suburbs and small town communities across 13 states from Virginia to Maine and Canada. 3,000 children also attended five Fresh Air camps on a 2,300-acre site in Fishkill, New York. The Fund’s year-round camping program serves an additional 2,000 young people each year.


DONATE NOW

Thankful Tuesday!

The strangest thing happen this morning that had me speechless for a second.  My son got up and said "Mom I want to take a shower"  the key word is WANT! 

But the the strangest part was this would make it 2 days in a row.  That hasn't happen since he was maybe 4 and LOVED bathes.  When he turned 5 he was too old for bathes, he told me.  So from that day on showers it has been but for the past 2 years (he is 9 now) its like pulling fricken teeth to get this boy to even shower!!  We would have outright meltdowns in the morning/night and after so many of them I just gave up...he had to take at least 3 showers a week- no ands/if/buts dude!  That was our compromise to stop the meltdowns.  He got to pick the days- I know kind of a soft mom there but I wanted him to want to do this on his own instead of me threatening bodily harm (just kidding but you know I thought it).  I would let him know he was stinking and left reminders but this was his thing. 

So WOOHOO my boy took a shower 2 days in a row and I'm very thankful!  Now family and friends don't share to him that I posted this because I know he would be sooooo embarrassed but hey isn't that what moms are for :)

Do any other moms have such a hard time getting their son's to take baths/showers?

PTA/PTO BURNOUT!

Man I am burnt!!  DONE...well done if you ask!  I've been working real hard for a couple years now and I think (KNOW) its time to hang up my SUPER PARENT cape.  The parent participation at the school is not the greatest but we get things accomplished.  We just had a read-a-thon and raised $2400.  For our school that is BIG.  The sad part is all the money we raise is going towards a Music Program that was taken away last year. 

The problem now is NO OTHER PARENT is wanting to be the Chair, Co-Chair, Secretary, Treasurer for next year.  Our terms are 1 yr.  Last year I was Secretary and this year I was Co-Chair.  I've been involved with every event this year and I'm wiped out and we still have several more events to plan.  We have a Spring Bazaar, Book Fair, Raffle/BBQ, Teacher Appreciation Week and the list goes on. 

This is just my whine for the day.  Now need to get ready for our Parent Teacher Corp Meeting.

Have you ever experienced PTA/PTO burnout?

12K- WTH Did I Get Myself Into?

This is a question I've asked myself every day for the past month...REALLY PAM!  12k...I barley can walk a mile, just kidden but still!  I got pulled into this project by another parent that was super stoked about this and wanted to make money for the school and now he is moving leaving me with this in my lap.

A lil bit about the 12 K- every year San Francisco holds this event called Bay To Breakers and this year is its 100th race. Our school is going to use this has a fundraiser- each runner will get a sponsor/s for $150 ($50 to pay registration and $100 goes to the school) and the monies will go towards the school's MUSIC PROGRAM.  We have about a dozen people (parents/admin/teachers) that are willing to do this and so even though its not the biggest money maker we still are going to do it!  Our goal was to get 50 people but it just didn't work out.  Also I won't be running..this body only knows how to walk :)!

Our music program was CUT last year like almost every school and we have been having fundraisers (coupon books, cookie dough, holiday bazaar, and read-a-thon) all year long to help pay for a music program to return to our kids.  Well good news this week we got a music teacher but for only one day a week- better than nothing!! We have a couple more fundraisers left and I'm afraid it all goes towards the music program.  Even though a music program is what all the families want but its just sad that our efforts all year long have to pay for this- we can't do anything else for the school. 

This is our school: http://civicorpsk5.org/
Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/civicorpsptc
Donation Page: http://civicorps-elementary.givezooks.com//events/team-ptc-of-civicorps-elementary (click the orange button if you care to donate- not the sponsorship button)

If you would like to donate,  I would be so elated and appreciate your kindness.


Now onto the real reason of this post...WTH to did I get myself into???? The person who hates to exercises. 

I have 2 months to get ready for this race and I kept telling myself March 15th is the DAY I start training.  That's TODAY! Now I've thought about it and what I would like to do but do I have anything planned out?  LOL...exercise is not my thing but it needs to be!  I went for a walk today and half way thru it starts raining, that was fun.  I have the Wii and a couple exercises games but I can't even do that.  I'm fighting against, myself and guess what I'm winning but not the right way.  Stubborn or just plain lazy- I say a little a both.  I've always hated physical stuff (except s*x) but this needs to stop!  I need to get in shape. Not just for this 12k run/walk but for ME and later in my life. 

Thanks for listening :)  BTW- just did spell check and misspelled EXERCISE each time LOL!

Could YOU Survive on SURVIVOR?

Well for me that would be a big FAT NO!!!  Ask my mom- she still gives me crap about camping and how much I hate it.  I wouldn't even last a day, just being honest.  Insects are the worst (for me) and to have them around me 24/7 that is so not happening. 

Reasons why I would SUCK as a survivor:

• HATE Insects...ewww
• Being outside all day..no I like my comfy house.
• Sleeping by people you really don't know...gross!
• I don't look good in a bathing suit AT ALL...I would scare everyone.
• The GAME itself would be too stressful...people are mean on there.
• Did I mention Insects??? LOL
• I could probably go on and on but I guess you get the picture...I wouldn't be able to do Survivor so my hubby needs to stop asking me LOL!  Of course he thinks he is funny every time I watch the show he points out I couldn't do it...PLEASE I know this! 

I know a goofy post but it was next on my TO DO posts! 

My Son Turns 21 Today!

First off...Happy Birthday to Nick for turning 21! 

Now on to me....man I feel OLD!  I remember the first time holding my baby, it was such a rush but so scared too!  I remember all the smiles and love. When he was placed in my arms my life changed forever- for the better that's the day I got the title MOM! 

What a beautiful gift I got 21 yrs ago!!  He is now a dad and a good one too!

My Knock Me Down Shoes

These suckers are so hard to walk in...wow!  They are hella high though.  I've been wearing flip flops, tennis shoes, ugg boots for probably last 12 years.  I used to be a shoe lover when I was single and clubbing but that was a decade ago.  I need to practice more before I attempt to go out in public again....almost broke my neck the 1st day I got them. 

Why did I buy them you ask (or maybe you didn't but oh welll LOL)...I had a horrible Vday so I ordered me some shoes to make me feel better...LOL (got to love my reasoning) and Steve Madden was having a 50% off sale and that was I all needed to pull the credit card out.

I feel so sexy wearing them but they fricken hurt.  I guess the price of beauty huh!  I warned you all I was doing 2011 different...its about ME.  Also my hubby LOVED them, even texted me later in the day telling me all he could think about is me in the shoes.  Woohoo! 

Ronnell-Brass Monkey

My Lil Beastie Boy

Stork Brokers- New BzzAgent Campaign

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Oxy Clinical Freebie

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