Wordless Wednesday

Me & the Boys are off to Havasu...

My oldest son is home from Spain!! We're on our way to Lake Havasu....see you in a few days!!

Beep Beep Bon Appetite'

Easy Chicken Parmesan

1 jar (26 oz.) spaghetti sauce
6 Tbsp. KRAFT 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese, divided
6 small boneless skinless chicken breast halves (1-1/2 lb.)
1-1/2 cups KRAFT Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

PREHEAT oven to 375°F. Pour sauce into 13x9-inch baking dish. Carefully stir in 4 Tbsp. (1/4 cup) of the Parmesan cheese. Add chicken; turn over to evenly coat both sides with sauce. Cover with foil.
BAKE 30 min. Uncover.
TOP with mozzarella cheese and remaining 2 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese; continue baking 5 min. or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.

To clean or not to clean, that is the question???

My youngest son Brad recently went to my sisters house to visit for a week. Considering he spends a lot of time in the pigsty he calls a room, I never get the chance to get in there and really CLEAN. Ya, I know he is a big boy (15) and should do it himself…and he would, but it wouldn’t be like a true MOTHER clean. Brads idea of clean is to put everything you can under the bed and hide the rest in drawers. He could care less about clean sheets and you better forget ALL about dusting and vacuuming as well because those words aren’t even in his vocabulary. I started with the computer desk…lets just put it this way, I am surprised something didn’t jump out at me. Not to mention, the layer of dust on things he hasn’t touched in months yet has seen fit to continue to let sit, undisturbed, until he had to move it out of the way to make room for more stuff he doesn’t use. 13 pencils with broken leads, 8 tops to water bottles, playing cards…at least 100 of them from various decks and none of them enough for a full deck. 4 pens that didn’t work, old homework that never made it to school or was graded and never thrown away, wires, TONS of wires….too what??? we don’t know..CD’s everywhere, some in cases, most not. Old socks shoved down on the side of the desk along with a few stray potato chips. The thing I don’t get is, he DOES have a trashcan in his room but is too lazy to walk 4 feet and throw things away…and if he does fill up his trashcan, I have to tell him to empty it???? Money….change everywhere on the floor, dresser, desk, nightstand…I think this may be a man thing. When my oldest son moved out, I collected quite a large amount of money from off his floor and my DBF Michael, well, he has quite a collection on his floor too:) I then washed his comforter and changed the sheets, vacuumed, dusted and I was done…..4 hours later. I was sweating from head to toe…that may have been a bigger workout than going to the gym. Am I the only mother to attempt something like this and was I wrong to not make him do it himself?? At any rate, it made me feel better to look at a clean room, even if it wont last for long!

TT #21

Thirteen Things I love that begin with the letter T!! 1. Tacos: Yummmmmmm!!!! 2. Tea: Hot, iced, sweetened, Green, Thai...YUM!! 3. T-Tops: On a car are sooooooooooooo cool. 4. Thunder storms: I love everything about them. Rain, wind, thunder, and lightening. 5. Trees: Especially during the changing of the seasons. Although, we dont see that much in Cali. 6. TV: but only when there is something to actually watch. 7. Teal green: is one of my favorite colors. 8. Talking: To someone who is really intelligent but not stuffy or boring. 9. Tattoos: Not tacky ones but tribals and art work are cool (although, Id never get one). 10. Tulips: They are absolutely beautiful. 11. Teasing: Not everyone has a sense of humor though. 12. Tuna: Yum, with relish and mayo!! 13. The Ocean: Ya, it doesnt start with a "T" but THE does...lol

Wordless Wednesday

Until Death Do Us Part????

As most of you know, I'm a single mother…obviously, as my blog is entitled Single Parents Unite. What you don’t know is, how I got here. I married the father of my children in 1989. He was the perfect guy, he treated me great, he was handsome, a hard worker, and my family loved him. At the time that we got married, we had a 7-month-old child…my oldest son Steven. Yes, I know that isn’t how its done but I knew I was going to marry him. We were engaged and I was waiting for a divorce to be finalized from my first husband (another story, not even worth mentioning). I am not the type of person to get pregnant just because, nor would I marry someone if I didn’t think it was until death do us part (OK..Lets again forget about the 1st marriage, it doesn’t count). My oldest son was born in 88 and my youngest in 91. We had a solid relationship/marriage until the 6th year. Kevin was working funky hours and I was working full time too. With 2 kids, we didn’t get a lot of alone time. We tried for a year to work it out but in the end, it tore us a part. We both ended up turning to other people, I moved out, and then we got a divorce. I had no idea how hard it was going to be. At the time, I was only making $9.00 dollars an hour. I had a 1 & 4 year old that were my responsibility 24/7. There was child support in the beginning but it only lasted a year and a half. I think what got me thru was the love for my children and an unrelenting attitude. I refused to let life get me down and my will to survive and succeed was off the charts. I know a lot of people get consumed in self-pity after the end of a relationship but I’m here to tell you, life is too short. Kids don’t understand grown up problems. You have to be the one to set the example and you need to have a game plan. I think being a mother is the hardest thing I’ve ever done but the most rewarding. I have battled my ex husband, his employers, the DA’s office, and child support agencies to get help with funds to help raise my children. I have also gone through teething, terrible 2’s, 3’, and 4’s, first days of school that didn’t go as planned, battles with schools over a child that has ADHD, no money for school clothes, baby sitting problems, sports, stitches, broken hearts, acne, speeding tickets, drugs, suicidal girlfriends, ditching school, backyard fights, and runaways. I did it alone and I survived. That’s what mothers do and they do it with little to no help and with no time off. Be honest with your kids and take it easy on yourself. Things don’t happen over night. When thing get tough I always remember what my Mom told me while I was in labor with my first child, swearing never to have another child....."THIS TOO SHALL PASS".

Another fun thing to do with your kids!!

Have you ever thought about taking your kids to a taping of their favorite show?? Yesterday we went to see the taping of "Are you smarter than a 5th grader?"...what a great time!! Its one thing to see it on T.V. but its something totally different to see it up close and personal. We took a day trip down to the CBS studio in LA. Id suggest getting there early. It was HOT but we got the best seats, right in back of the contestants. There is a chance that we will actually get on T.V.! There are tons of shows to see and the tickets are FREE!! That is something that your kids will be talking about for years. All you have to do is request your tickets. There are a bunch of other shows too and you don't have to spend any cash. That is perfect for single parents or people that don't have any extra cash for fun. Just click on the link below and it will take you where you need to request tickets. I'm not sure if there is a limit to the number of tickets you can request but we got 4 without any problem OCA T.V.

Is 16 too young to drive?

My youngest son just finished Drivers Education, and I must say, Im not ready for him to drive. I live in a small town with a high teenage population and sometimes its pretty scary on the road. Your fearful to drive to the store anytime between 2:45 and 3:00 when they are all getting out of school. I think the biggest mistake that parents make when teaching their teens to drive is underestimating the time and effort it takes to help make a teen a safer, smarter driver. Many parents assume that Drivers Ed alone is adequate. I think you should plan to spend a minimum of 50 to 100 hours behind the wheel with your teen over a 6 month period after they receive their permit.Teens need experience in residential, rural, freeway and city driving. They need experience where possible in snow, rain, fog and night-time conditions (it really depends on where they live too. You'll never get snow driving in Cali). According to a Virginia Tech and National Highway Transportation Safety Administration study, distracted drivers accounted for 80% of the crashes in their study and 18-20 year olds were 4 times more likely to be involved in accidents. I think one of the main malfuntions with our distracted drivers is cell phones. It never fails, when your driving behind an idiot, chances are, they arent paying attention to anything but their phone call. I wont blame that primarily on teens, its adults too. I guess because I work in the medical field, Im a little more apprehensive about my son driving. I hear about horror stories all the time. Thank God I dont work in the Emergency Room. I dont know if waiting 2 extra years will help, because experience is experience, but....that would give me two more years to prepare. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens, accounting for 36% of all deaths in this age group. I wish there was something to make me feel better about this whole thing, but as it stand, Im scared to death for my baby to get behind the wheel of a car. Lord, give me strength!!

Things you should know about ADHD.

I’ve decided to do a blog on ADHD because my youngest son was diagnosed with it in the 3rd grade. I think its one of the most over diagnosed problem, but if a child does, in fact have this disorder, its very important to seek help and treatment. I always noticed that Brad was a little more active than most children but I thought that was his personality. It wasn’t until he started Elementary school that the calls from the teachers started. I took him to his primary doctor who referred me to a psychologist. They gave him a couple tests, I was given some evaluations for myself and his teacher to fill out, and he was diagnosed. It was extremely hard for me to put my son on medication, but without it, he would have never made it as far as he has. The doctor explained to me what happens in a person’s brain when they have ADHD and it really helped me to understand. Neuroimaging studies suggest that the brains of children with ADHD are different from those of other children. These children handle neurotransmitters (including dopamine, serotonin, and adrenalin) differently from their peers. A lot of these children are abused because parents or caregivers believe the children can control their behavior, and they can to a point, but they have so much going on throughout their body, they don't know what to do with the extra energy. Here are some guidelines to review. If you think your child may have ADHD, I urge you to contact your primary care physician for a game plan:
I. Either A or B:
A. Six or more of the following symptoms of inattention have been present for at least 6 months to a point that is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level:
Inattention
1. Often does not give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.
2. Often has trouble keeping attention on tasks or play activities.
3. Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
4. Often does not follow instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions).
5. Often has trouble organizing activities.
6. Often avoids, dislikes, or doesn't want to do things that take a lot of mental effort for a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).
7. Often loses things needed for tasks and activities (e.g. toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools).
8. Is often easily distracted.
9. Is often forgetful in daily activities.
B. Six or more of the following symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity have been present for at least 6 months to an extent that is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level:
Hyperactivity
1. Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat.
2. Often gets up from seat when remaining in seat is expected.
3. Often runs about or climbs when and where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may feel very restless).
4. Often has trouble playing or enjoying leisure activities quietly.
5. Is often "on the go" or often acts as if "driven by a motor".
6. Often talks excessively.
Impulsivity
1. Often blurts out answers before questions have been finished.
2. Often has trouble waiting one's turn.
3. Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).
II. Some symptoms that cause impairment were present before age 7 years.
III. Some impairment from the symptoms is present in two or more settings (e.g. at school/work and at home).
IV. There must be clear evidence of significant impairment in social, school, or work functioning.
V. The symptoms do not happen only during the course of a Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Schizophrenia, or other Psychotic Disorder. The symptoms are not better accounted for by another mental disorder (e.g. Mood Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Dissociative Disorder, or a Personality Disorder).

But Id like to add that even though my son may have this disorder, he is the funniest, kindest, most well adjusted kid I know. He just has a little more energy than most but that's OK with me. I wouldn't change a thing!

From one single parent to another....

Things that you need to remember as a single parent:

1.Deal with your own reality. If a divorce led to the single-parenting you will experience grief, anger, guilt, loneliness, and despair (even if divorce was the right decision).

2.Get help..Start by acknowledging that you can't do it all and you can't do it alone.

3.Eliminate all unnecessary chores. Get life down to absolute basics.

4. No matter how busy you are, spend some part of every day alone.

5. Keep a diary to clarify your thoughts and track your progress.

6.You can join other single parents. Parents Without Partners is one
suggestion.

7. Accept the fact that your children will react to the lack of a father. Do not be surprised by questions, behavior problems, school difficulties, or sadness.

8. Let your kids know your feelings. If you are sad tell them. Families that can discuss and deal with feelings are healthy families. Ive never lied to my boys about anything, including finances.

9. Don't get your children involved with persons you are dating unless you are pretty sure it's going to be a permanent relationship.

10. Don't badmouth the children's father.

11. Keep a sense of humor.

12. Take advantage of what we now know about handling stress. There are specific stress-reduction exercises like meditation and imaging which can help diminish our stress levels.

13. Get counseling help if you need it. How do you know if you need it? If you are having difficulty functioning or relating to your children, get help.

14. Enjoy your child. Cherish the time you can spend together. I took my kids everywhere with me. Im happy to say I have a strong relationship with both of them.

15. Remember children are resilient and they can thrive living in many different kinds of families. Don't waste any precious time worrying about your single-parent life. This is your life--and your child's life--accept it and live it fully!

I hope this helps. If Ive missed something, I am always open to suggestions:)

The Complete Single Mothers Guide

This book is filled will all kinds of information to help out single parents. It also answers questions you may have about single motherhood but were either too busy, too afraid, or didn't even think to ask. If you have questions concerning custody issues, managing your finances, dealing with an irresponsible ex, handling work pressures, collecting child support, and many, many more. There are also solutions for changing families, showing you how to help your children through divorce, build confidence, find male role models, and how to respond to tough questions like "Where's Daddy?" It doesn't forget your child's most important asset -- You! With creative thinking, planning, and this book as a reference, you can not only raise happy, healthy, and productive children, you can retain your sanity -- and maybe even your sense of humor! Most single parents wing it or use the help of family and friends to get through the tough times...but what if there isnt anybody to ask?? What if none of your friends have kids?? They didnt have a book like this when I was raising my children but I wish they would have. There is no other book about single parenting like this one, which has an answer for any question a single parent would ask.

TT #20

13 things you can do with Peroxide: 1. No more canker sores & your teeth will be whiter. Take 1 cap full & hold in your mouth for 10 minutes daily, then spit it out. It will make your teeth whiter without expensive pastes. Use it instead of mouthwash. 2. Let your toothbrushes soak in a cup of "Peroxide" to keep them free of germs. 3. Clean your counters and table-tops with peroxide to kill germs and leave a fresh smell; Simply put a little on your dishrag when you wipe, or spray it on the counters. 4. Kill salmonella and other bacteria. After rinsing off your wooden cutting board, pour peroxide on it. 5. Get rid of fungus. Spray a 50/50 mixture of peroxide and water on them, especially the toes, every night and let dry to get rid of fungus. . 6. Soak any infections or cuts in 3% peroxide for 5 to 10 minutes several times a day and it will speed the healing. 7. Disinfectant. Fill a spray bottle with a 50/50 mixture of peroxide and water; keep it in every bathroom to use like bleach or most other disinfectants. 8. Plugged sinuses. Tilt your head back & spray into nostrils with your 50/50 mixture whenever you have a cold, or stuffy nose. It will bubble and help to kill the bacteria. Hold for a few minutes, then blow your nose into a tissue. 9. Terrible toothache. If you cannot get to a dentist right away, put a cap full of 3% peroxide into your mouth and hold it for 10 minutes several times a day. The pain will lessen greatly. 10. More natural highlights. If you like a natural look to your HAIR, spray the 50/50 solution on your wet hair after a shower and comb it through. You will not have the 'peroxide burnt blonde hair' like the hair dye packages. If your hair is a light brown, reddish, or dirty blonde, it lightens gradually, so it's not a drastic change. 11. Eliminate boils, fungus, or other skin infections. Put half a bottle of peroxide in your bath to help prevent against any of the above. 12. Peroxide instead of bleach - You can add a cup of peroxide to a load of whites in your laundry to whiten them instead of bleach. If there is blood on clothing, pour directly on the soiled spot. Let it sit for a minute, then RUB & RINSE IN COLD WATER. Repeat if necessary. 13. Clean mirrors. Use peroxide to clean your mirrors with NO SMEARING!

Increase your worth financially....

Many single parents find themselves in a difficult financial situation mainly due to lack of funds from the other parent. Sometimes you find relief but sometimes you don't. In the beginning, I was collecting money on a regular basis. That lasted about a year and a half, then, my ex husband lost his job. I had to go to the DA's office and open a case against him so that I could collect money from his unemployment. It wasn't much, but it helped. That lasted until he got another job, then he lost that job, and so on and so on. Anyway, I know alot of parents are struggling to support their children on minimum wage and feel they have no where to turn. Hey, there is hope!! You can go back to school and further your education. When I went back to college, I was offered a full grant and paid little to nothing for books and classes. Here are a few sites that might help get the ball rolling. You cant support your kids on minimum wage. Learn a trade and become more independent. We cant rely on the other parent, EVER....but your kids are relying on you. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off and do something to change your situation and your life:

http://grants.gov/ - The best place to start to find the information you need to get the help you deserve.

http://schoolgrants.org/ - If your children are in need of a grant, find assistance here.
http://scholarships.com/ - Start your search here in finding money for school.
http://college-scholarships.com/ - Whether you are just starting up, or have decided to go back, you'll find assistance here.

And here is a Financial Tip - Let all of your lose change accumulate for the month, cash it in for crisp dollar greens, and have your bank deposit it into your savings; it will be an added bonus!!!

Wordless Wednesday

I feel alot like this cat lately. Trying desperately to keep my head above water without being submerged.

Family outings that are perfect for single parents.

Here are some cheap family outings for the families that dont have the extra cash flow to go on vacation. Enjoy!

Go fly a kite. My boys absolutely loved this. We either went to the field at their school or to the local park.

Fishing can be fun. They have a regional park in my city that you only pay a small fee and you can fish for the day. This is geared more towards boys then girls but its cheap and fun.

A trip to the beach. Pack a picnic lunch and head towards the harbor. If you know the right spots, you can even park for free.

Movie star gaze. Hit the matinees for cheaper tickets. Instead of dinner afterward, split a fancy dessert at Coldstones.

Tour your own city or region. Call your state’s bureau of tourism and ask for information on nearby points of interest. You’ll be surprised how many sights charge little or no admission.

Get cultured. Many people don’t know that most museums offer free admission one day a week or at least once a month. Since museums don’t usually advertise this information, call to find out which days are freebies.

Create a family field trip. Call the chamber of commerce in your city (or investigate online) for a listing of all the factories that run tours. These plant walk-throughs often end with free samples of the company’s products. Don’t tell your kids that free stuff can be educational!

Star gaze. Go to the library, check out a book about constellations, and set up a starry-night outing. Bring a thermos of hot chocolate and a big cozy blanket or in the summer, bring some lemonade and a towel to lay on.

Play act. Instead of paying big bucks to see a theater performance, get the script from the library, invite some friends over, assign parts and put on your on your own show. (Suggestion: Hamming up Shakespeare is the most fun.)

Top 10 relationship books.

1. Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus
Relationship counselor John Gray focuses on the differences between men and women and offers a simple solution: couples must acknowledge and accept these differences before they can develop happier relationships.
2. The Five Love Languages
The Five Love Languages refers to the many ways in which couples communicate with each other. Understanding which language one's spouse "speaks" will result in a more successful marriage.
3. How to Survive Dating
Includes words of wisdom from hundreds of single men and women nationwide who have been-there, done-that. Their sometimes funny, sometimes heartbreaking, real-world dating experiences will give readers a leg up in the dating world.
4. Why Men Love Bitches
Sherry Argov delivers a unique perspective as to why men are attracted to a strong woman who stands up for herself. This no-nonsense guide reveals why a strong woman is much more desirable than a "yes woman" who routinely sacrifices herself.
5. Love and Respect
Cracking the communication code between husband and wife involves understanding one thing: that unconditional respect is as powerful for him as unconditional love is for her. It's the secret to marriage that every couple seeks, and yet few couples ever find.
6. She Comes First
As women everywhere will attest, when it comes to understanding female sexuality, most guys know more about what's under the hood of a car than how to please a woman. This books tells men everything they need to know to love the one they're with.
7. Relationship Rescue
Famous for helping people "get real" about relationship (and many other) issues, "Dr. Phil" of TV fame, as well as a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, explores ways that couples can turn their partnerships into successful relationships.
8. Falling in Love for All the Right Reasons
Offers 29 "dimensions of compatibility" to consider before committing to a romantic relationship. The author believes readers who screen partners for compatibility will fare much better than spirit-struck lovers who base commitments on profound immediate attraction.
9. Date or Soulmate?
He feels a strong attraction to her. She wonders if he could be "the one." In the glamorous haze of early romantic attraction it's hard to know whether a relationship will lead to true love-or to a negative or even catastrophic relationship.
10. 100 Tips to Be Happy Together
Here is no-nonsense advice on how couples can build, cultivate, and maintain a happy relationship. It's for partners just starting out, as well as for those looking to recapture that original spark.

Beep Beep Bon Appetite'

Aloha Pork Chop Skillet

2 tsp. oil
4 bone-in pork chops (1-1/2 lb.)
1 medium each: red and yellow pepper, cut into chunks
2 cans (8 oz. each) pineapple chunks in juice, undrained
1/2 cup fat-free reduced-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup KRAFT CATALINA Dressing
1-1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1-1/2 cups instant white rice, uncooked

HEAT oil in large nonstick skillet on medium-high heat. Add chops; cook 5 min. on each side or until browned on both sides.
ADD peppers, pineapple, broth, dressing and garlic powder; mix well. Bring to boil.
STIR in rice; cover. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer 5 min. or until chops are cooked through (160°F). Remove from heat; let stand 5 min.

Does divorce permanently damage the children?

OK....I was doing some research and I came across a website that was generated by the non custodial parent. There was a paragraph that caught my eye. It stated:
What divorcing couple nowadays hasn't heard horror stories about what the split might do to their children? Especially if Mom is left to raise the kids alone. A father's absence in the home, according to almost every fathers group, could well spell doom for little boys, little girls and the future of the nation.
Pleeeeeeeeeease. I know divorce is tough on kids. Its hard on everyone involved but to say that it could spell DOOOOOOOOOM for the children is bullshit. Coming from a broken home, Id be the first one to say sometimes it isnt easy. You dont always get what you want, and alot of times you have to do without. However, this is 2007. There are plenty of ways to raise your children to be happy and healthy, while ending a relationship that makes you miserable. I mean really, what do the kids really gain from seeing Mommy and Daddy fight all the time? I think staying together for the children doesn't do anyone any good. I'm a divorced mother of 2 very well mannered, well behaved, well adjusted young men. People always tell me how great my boys are, and I did it without their father. He left the picture years ago, skipping state and leaving his boys behind while he ran from a drug problem. We had already divorced a few years before he left but he was a weak, spineless person, that I had absolutely no respect for. He didn't bother to try and be a father to my children until they were in their teens, after I had pretty much written him off. I let my kids come to their own conclusion. I think if children have love in their life, it doesn't matter who it is raising them. To make a statement so bold as to say DOOM for the children because their is no father, well, I just have to laugh. If your happily married, more power to ya, but if your miserable....don't stay there for the kids. They will be much happier living with 2 parents that are happier apart rather than 2 parents that are miserable and under the same roof. That's just my opinion..........

Friday Feast

Appetizer
What is your favorite fruit?
Bananas, Pineapple, Cantaloupe, and Watermelon are all tied for first.

Soup
Who is someone you consider as a great role model?
My Mother. She is the strongest person I know.

Salad
If you were to spend one night anywhere within an hour of your home, where would you choose?
Michaels House

Main Course
Name something you do too often.
Stress and obsess

Dessert
Fill in the blank: I really like ___________ because ____________.
I really like laying by the pool listening to my MP3 player because it feels good and makes me happy.

Have you ever thought of speed dating?

Speed Dating originated in the late 1990's and utilizes a round-robin format to help daters meet several people one-on-one at the same event. Each date typically lasts ten minutes or less before you move onto the next potential mate. You may not know in ten minutes or less if you want to marry the person, but you can often tell if you at least want to see them again. Plus, if you know right away it's a mismatch at least you're not stuck sitting through a boring dinner waiting for the check. Typically no contact information is exchanged at the end of each speed date. At the end of the evening, each dater submits a list of people they would like to see again. The event organizers look for matches and provide contact information to both parties for each match made. So now you know the basics, but what should you wear and talk? How should you act to improve your chances of finding that special someone? The key in choosing your outfit is to dress attractively without dressing to attract. In other words, your goal is to meet a potential mate, not just attract attention, particularly from the wrong kind of person. A good rule of thumb is to look at yourself in the mirror before leaving and determine if any particular article of clothing or exposed body part could be distracting. If you pass this test, you'll know the people you meet will be able to focus on you, not your clothes or a body part. Speed Dating is not all about, rather it's about getting to know a set of new people quickly and efficiently. In general, focus on topics appropriate for a first date. In other words, this is not the time to vent about relationships gone wrong or brag about your sexual conquests. It can be tempting to be something you're not. After all, you are trying to impress others at Speed Dating events. However, keep in mind that putting up a false front will not ultimately help you reach your goal. In the end, if you act like yourself you'll know that others are meeting the real you and expressing interest in the person they'll date if the relationship progresses. Go to any common search engine, such as Google or Yahoo, type in "speed dating" and you're sure to come across opportunities.


Best of luck as you speed along the dating superhighway!

TT#19

Thirteen things about my DBF Michael.

1. He is an idealist.
2. He is resourceful.
3. Sexy, very sexy...
4. Sensitive, even though he doesn't want people to know it.
5. He plays beautiful music on his guitar and piano. I love to hear him sing.
6. He has great hair.
7. He has a strange sense of humor...sometimes, I just dont get it...lol
8. Excellent Cook and Baker (especially brownies and chocolate chip cookies).
9. Extremely talented.
10. Smart...I mean, Jeopardy smart.
11. He is cute first thing in the morning when his hair is in disarray.
12. Attentive...he takes very good care of me.
13. Sweet as sugar.

Wordless Wednesday

With a son-in-law in Iraq and a son who served in Afghanistan, Kathy Johnston says she wants to make sure her five grandchildren know that it's important to support U.S. troops, no matter how they feel about the war.

Unwed mothers....the new Hollywood trend.

Id like to know what in the heck is wrong with our society these days. The superstars and the media are having babies out of wedlock and making it look like a fashion statement. They strut their proud pregnant bellies with no wedding ring on their fingers like that's the only way to have children. I'm sorry, I don't agree. What message are we sending to our teen girls?? Its OK to have babies out of wedlock??Children are forever. The rich have money to hire nannies and nurses to raise their children for them. People in the real world don't live like that. Babies are hard and raising them on your own is even harder. Its not glamorous and alot of times your friends are only there for the good times, not the bad....the midnight feedings, the high temps, the teething, the temper tantrums....being a single mother was the hardest thing I ever had to do in my life. When I left my husband, I had a 1 and 4 year old to raise on my own making $9.00 dollars an hour. That's not glamorous neither was trying to figure out how I was going to buy groceries from one week to the next, get gas money to get to work, and oh ya, lets not forget about child care. I think the superstars need to be educated that they are sending the wrong message to our youth. Having babies is not cool. They are little people that you are completely responsible for and they don't come with owner manuals. What the end result is, you spend 18 years fighting for child support to help you raise your child and you end up paying 34% to a company (Supportkids)that feeds off of desperate single parents. That's just my opinion......



And then there's Nicole Richie. Not only is she pregnant, she was caught driving the wrong way on the 405 fwy under the influence of marijuana and vicodin. Now, not only is she sending the message its OK to being an unwed mother, but also, to drink and do drugs while driving. Wow, what an awesome role model!!

Child Support is a never ending struggle...

I've always thought that when two people come together in a bond that produces a child, BOTH people are responsible. Yet, millions and millions of single parents go day after day without financial or emotional support. I have a hard time understanding why for some reason, support payments are looked upon so inconveniently by the paying parent. They seem to resent each and every penny, which makes no sense. The federal guidelines are built o­n the basis that both parents should share the same portion of their income with their child as they would if they had continued to live together. Don't they understand that its the child that suffers? I don't care who you are, or how many corners you cut, raising a child on your own is expensive. My suggestion to all, don't wait. Get the ball rolling now because you never know how long its going to take to get any money. And if the other parent is out of state, it could take forever. People that complain about having no money, yet do nothing to help themselves, have no one else to blame. If you dont know where to start, go to your local District Attorneys office. And whatever you do, dont hire Supportkids. See what you can do with other resources first. Having someone take 34% of your child support is really hard to deal with especially since you work so hard to get it in the first place. Ive been fighting the system for 16 years. This isnt rocket science, but it can be quite challenging. Sit back and make the best of the ride.

Beep Beep Bon Appetite'

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

1/4 cup KRAFT Sun-Dried Tomato Vinaigrette Dressing, divided
4 small boneless skinless chicken breast halves (1 lb.)
1 medium tomato, finely chopped
1/2 cup KRAFT Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or 1 tsp. dried basil leaves

PLACE large sheet of heavy-duty foil over half of grill grate; preheat grill to medium heat. Pour 2 Tbsp. of the dressing over chicken in resealable plastic bag; seal bag. Turn bag over several times to evenly coat chicken with the dressing. Refrigerate 10 min. to marinate. Remove chicken from marinade; discard bag and marinade.
GRILL chicken on uncovered side of grill 6 min. Meanwhile, combine tomatoes, cheese, basil and remaining 2 Tbsp. dressing.
TURN chicken over; place, cooked-side up, on foil on grill. Top evenly with tomato mixture. Close lid. Grill an additional 8 min. or until chicken is cooked through (170ºF).

Do men really love bitches?? Lets ask my boyfriend....

Sherry Argov’s Why Men Love Bitches delivers a unique perspective as to why men are attracted to a strong woman who stands up for herself. With saucy detail on every page, this no-nonsense guide reveals why a strong woman is much more desirable than a “yes woman” who routinely sacrifices herself. The author provides compelling answers to the tough questions women often ask:

Why are men so romantic in the beginning and why do they change? · Why do men take nice girls for granted? · Why does a man respect a woman when she stands up for herself?

Full of much-needed advice, hilarious real-life relationship scenarios, “she says/he thinks” tables, and the author’s unique “Attraction Principles,” Why Men Love Bitches gives you bottom-line answers. It helps you know who you are, stand your ground, and relate to men on a whole new level. Once you’ve discovered the feisty attitude men find so magnetic, you’ll not only increase the romantic chemistry in the relationship—you’ll gain your man’s love and respect with far less effort.

TT#18 - Obviously I didnt get the memo about the theme this week!!

Thirteen things Bananas are good for: 1. Mental Health: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier. 2. PMS: Forget the pills - eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood. 3. Anemia : High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia. 4. Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke. 5. Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school ( England ) were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert. 6. Constipation: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives. (hmmmm, I always thought they plugged you up because of the potasium???) 7. Hangovers: One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey.. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system. 8. Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief. 9. Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness 10.Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation. 11.Nerves: Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system. 12.Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach. 13.Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a "cooling" fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand , for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Wordless Wednesday....Happy 4th of July!!

10 delicious frozen treats that are low on calories but still big on taste.

1. Dreyer's Loaded Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Frozen Dairy Dessert is made from skim milk. The only problem will be limiting yourself to just half a cup (130 calories).
2. Starbucks Orange Crème Frappuccino Light Blended Crème. It tastes like the real thing and a tall size has just 110 calories and no fat.
3. Weight Watchers Cookies & Cream Bars (140 calories each) are ideal.
4. Pour no-calorie diet root beer into a tall glass and sink a half cup of Breyer's Double Churn Light Vanilla Bean (100 calories) into it for a homemade indulgence.
5. Popsicle Sugar Free Lifesavers Pops pack a lot of fruity flavor, but contain a mere 20 calories each.
6. Then head to the closest McDonald's for their Vanilla Reduced Fat Ice Cream Cone (150 calories).
7. Have a Dreyer's Fruit Bar in lemonade flavor. Packed with chunks of real fruit, these frozen bars have just 80 calories each and are the perfect way to cool down on a hot day.
8. With Skinny Cow Mint Ice Cream Sandwiches you'll get the richness of chocolate mixed with cool, creamy mint. These delicious treats have just 140 calories.
9. With their non-fat Raspberry Sorbet & Vanilla Yogurt Bars you don't have to. With only 90 calories.
10.Buy some raspberries (64 calories per cup), pop them in the freezer for about an hour, then enjoy. This treat is not only delicious, but delivers a healthy dose of vitamin C.

Here are some cool ideas for a first date....

Have a date, but can't think of a date idea? These twenty ideas should provide all the ammunition you need to plan something special:

1. Play miniature golf.
2. Roast marshmallows and make smores.
3. Visit a carnival or festival.
4. Go cosmic bowling.
5. Watch the sunrise or sunset together.
6. Read a book aloud together.
7. Take a pottery class.
8. Buy the ingredients to make an ice cream sundae, and create it together.
9. Go to a comedy club.
10.Visit a museum.
11.Ascend to the top of the highest building in town.
12.Make a picnic in the park.
13.Go sightseeing in your own city.
14.Attend a sporting event.
15.Rent canoes and paddle around the nearest lake.
16.Take a cooking class together.
17.Go to the zoo.
18.Play a board game.
19.Bake cookies together.
20.Drive to a nearby town you have never visited before.

Hope this helps. If you have any feedback, Id love to hear it.

WomansDivorce.com

I was doing some research on the Internet the other day and stumbled across this website WomensDivorce.com. Naturally I was curious, so I started to investigate their services. They provide a California Premium Divorce Service for $299.00. They claim this is an easy to use, accurate, and up-to-date on-line divorce service and is a perfect "do it yourself (without a lawyer)" solution for any uncontested divorce (with or without children) that will be filed in the state of California. An uncontested divorce is one in which you and your spouse are in agreement and eliminates the stress and expense of settling your divorce in court. Wow, it wasnt this easy when I got divorced. I didnt go thru the lawyer route. The average California divorce lawyer has an hourly fee of $200 with an average case cost of $3500. If your good with forms, you can go to the courthouse and pick them up yourself. I used a paralegal and I ended up paying about $350 for the whole thing. That was in 1994 though. Times and prices have changed. You can also seek free legal aide. The phone book should list them under legal services. Some charge on a curve depending on your wages. This website has alot of interesting information regarding the latest divorce laws and child support guidelines. You can call them if you have questions about their service. The number is 1-800-680-9052 from 9am - 5pm Mon-Fri. EST. Check it out!!

The action was off the charts!! Live Free or Die Hard

Michael and I went to see Live Free or Die Hard this weekend. I have to be honest, I was a little skeptical. Bruce Willis is still getting his hands dirty 19 years after he originally played tough-talking McClane in the original Die Hard. And let me tell you, the guy put out quite a performance. There was so much action in this movie, and the idea behind the script, was truly scary. To think that computers control so much of how we exist, wow, in the wrong hands, the world as we know it could change in a heart beat. Guys, you will love this flick and girls....your gonna love it too!!! Two thumbs up....