Wordless "I cant wait" Wednesday....

AVATAR THE MOVIE

DF Michael, my sons Steven, Brad, and I went to see Avatar last night. What an awesome movie! Despite the heavy crowds, we were able to find pretty good seats. Considering the line went out and around the building, that wasn't an easy task. We also decided to see it in IMAX 3D. I can honestly say, the 3D thing wasnt really a necessity. Nothing came flying out at you, it just made the picture a little cooler. The premise of the movie is as such:

In the future, Jake, a paraplegic war veteran, is brought to another planet, Pandora, which is inhabited by the Na'vi, a humanoid race with their own language and culture. Those from Earth find themselves at odds with each other and the local culture. There he learns of greedy corporate figurehead Parker Selfridge's intentions of driving off the native humanoid "Na'vi" in order to mine for the precious material scattered throughout their rich woodland. In exchange for the spinal surgery that will fix his legs, Jake gathers intel for the cooperating military unit spearheaded by gung-ho Colonel Quaritch, while simultaneously attempting to infiltrate the Na'vi people with the use of an "avatar" identity. While Jake begins to bond with the native tribe and quickly falls in love with the beautiful alien Neytiri, the restless Colonel moves forward with his ruthless extermination tactics, forcing the soldier to take a stand - and fight back in an epic battle for the fate of Pandora.

The visuals were amazing, the story was original, and the acting superb. I loved the story. Some say there was an underling meaning. I dont know about that. If you just watch the movie and appreciate if for what it was, you are sure to have a wonderful experience. When a 2 1/2 hour movie comes into theaters, alot of people wont bother seeing a show that is so long. However, I didnt feel like I had been sitting for any real length of time and all of the movie goers were well behaved considering there wasnt an open seat in the house. I give this movie 2 very big thumbs up. A definite must see!!

Wordless Wednesday

Find Your Happy Place....

I think happiness is something you decide. You can either live your life miserable or except what it’s given you and make the best of it. We all have our ups and downs. You wouldn’t be human if this wasn’t the case. Misery, on the other hand, loves company. If you have ever been around someone that is always unhappy, it brings you down. You can try your best to change their perspective but I think it’s a decision they make. Some people like being that way. Chronic complainers are also a challenge. You know the type, nothing ever makes them happy. How do they get like that? My depression comes and goes and it generally coincides with a certain time of the month or a particular time of the year. The holidays, especially Christmas, can be hard for me. I lost someone very important in December and it just hasn’t been the same since.

Life is tough. We have things we regret but learn to make the best of it and move on. If your life is always filled with “what if’s”, who is busy living your “now” moments? Trying to make everyone happy all the time can be exhausting. Have you ever heard of negative energy? It’s a vibe a person puts out and it radiates through a room in no time. If you think you have a problem with this, try looking at life a little different. Have you ever thought about what you have instead of what you don’t have? When was the last time you gave thanks for your blessings? Everybody has them. Are you employed? Do you have a roof over your head? Is your fridge stocked? Are there people that love you? Don’t focus on the negative but rather, make the best of what you have. We only have one chance here on earth. Why not make the best of it? What could you possibly have to lose? Try smiling next time you feel bad. Its surprising how much better it can make you feel.

Random Thoughts

1. Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong.

2. I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was younger.

3. There is great need for a sarcasm font.

4. How the hell are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?

5. MapQuest really needs to start their directions on #5. I'm pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.

6. Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.

7. Bad decisions make good stories.

8. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.

9. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue Ray? I don't want to have to restart my collection...again.

10. I'm always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to the document that I swear I did not make any changes to.

11. I hate when I just miss a call by the last ring (Hello? Hello? Damn it!), but when I immediately call back, it rings nine times and goes to voicemail. What'd you do after I didn't answer? Drop the phone and run away?

12. I hate leaving my house confident and looking good and then not seeing anyone of importance the entire day. What a waste.

13. I keep some people's phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.

14. I think the freezer deserves a light as well.

Wordless (or more like speechless) Wednesday

Great gift idea!!

I received this cute bag in the mail last week from my friends at Simply Bags. I absolutely love it! It feels like Im taking a new stylish purse to work rather than a lunch sack. Which, by the way, use to consist of grocery bags. It keep my lunch cold and its the perfect size. If you get the chance, check out the link. They have bags for EVERYTHING!! I even bought one for a friend at work as a Christmas gift. You'll love them.

Happy Thanksgiving

Wordless Wednesday

The Bathrooms are done!!

Before



After


Thank God its over!! Contractors suck....

Mammograms

Many women are afraid of their first mammogram, but there is no need
to worry. By taking a few minutes each day for a week preceding the
exam and doing the following exercises, you will be totally prepared
for the test and best of all, you can do these simple exercises right
in and around your home.

EXERCISE ONE:
Open your refrigerator door and insert one breast in door. Shut the
door as hard as possible and lean on the door for good measure.
Hold that position for five seconds. Repeat again in case the first
time wasn't effective enough.

EXERCISE TWO:
Visit your garage at 3AM when the temperature of the cement floor is
just perfect. Take off all your clothes and lie comfortably on the
floor with one breast wedged under the rear tire of the car.. Ask a
friend to slowly back the car up until your breast is sufficiently
flattened and chilled... Turnover and repeat with the other breast..

EXERCISE THREE:
Freeze two metal bookends overnight. Strip to the waist.. Invite a
stranger into the room. Press the bookends against one of your
breasts. Smash the bookends together as hard as you can. Set up an appointment
with the stranger to meet next year and do it again.
YOU ARE TOTALLY PREPARED!

Wordless Wednesday

Guess what happened to me while on vacation in Mexico last week? My DBF Michael has become my DF (Darling Fiance)!!

Wordless "Happy Anniversary Honey" Wednesday

Wordless Wednesday has fallen on our 3rd anniversary this year. Here's a toast to a lifetime of happiness together!
I Love You

My Review of Metro Slimmer 360º Skinny Jeans

Originally submitted at Metrostyle

These revolutionary jeans have built-in panels in the front and back to lift your backside, slim your tummy and smooth all over – so you look amazing from every angle! Imported.

 

Built in body-shaping panels!

Five-pocket styling; skinny legs.

Sits below the...

Metro Slimmer 360º Skinny Jeans

Loved the Jeans!

By Lori from Yucaipa, CA. on 10/14/2009

 

5out of 5

Fit: Feels true to size

Waist: Feels true to size

Length: Feels too long

Pros: Flattering, Comfortable, Attractive Design, Nice Color

Best Uses: Night Out, Casual Wear

Describe Yourself: Casual Dresser

Comfort vs Style: Comfort Driven

Loved the jeans so much I ordered another pair.

(legalese)

Paranormal Activity...a must see movie!!!

I have a very high tolerance for scary movies. Most horror flicks these days are either redone versions of the classics or are so predictable it isn't worth my time. I found this movie by accident. While searching the movie listing for date night, I came across Paranormal Activity. I don't remember seeing any commercials or advertising for this movie. Why? Its not playing in every city or state for that matter. The people in my town must have demanded it because its showing in two theaters. How do you get it in your town? Demand it! Go to this website and hit the demand it key. The premise for the movie is as follows:

After a young, middle class couple move into what seems like a typical suburban “starter” tract house, they become increasingly disturbed by a presence that may or may not be demonic but is certainly most active in the middle of the night. Especially when they sleep. Or try to. These are no name actors (meaning I have never heard of them before) that do a great job at making you believe what they are experiencing is real. This is the first time I have been scared at the movies in quite a while. The ending...well, lets just say OMG!!! Its a must see movie. If its not playing in your city don't forget to demand it. It's the perfect time of year for a scare like this.. LOVED IT!!

Wordless "my baby is finally 18" Wednesday

Rotten Customer Service

There is nothing worse than going someplace and getting crappy service. With the economy the way it is, you would think that companies would go above and beyond to get your business. Case in point, last weekend. DBF Michael and I went to San Pedro for Lobsterfest. I made the reservations 6 months is advance and booked us a suite at Crowne Plaza. When we arrived, we were told by a flighty receptionist that our room had been bumped. She left us standing there for 15 minutes while she researched the problem. After returning, we were told that the airlines had booked suites for their pilots and they weren't scheduled to leave until 11 o'clock that night. WTF? She then down sized us to a mini-suite and only took 16.00 dollars off the tab. We are not off to a good start. One of the things we liked about this hotel was that they offered shuttle service. When we went down to the lobby and asked for a shuttle ride to the fair, we were told by the moron behind the counter that it would take 15 minutes. After waiting patiently for 20 minutes, I went back in the lobby and he was no where to be found. I asked the next available person how much longer we would have to wait. After consulting with another moron that spoke little English, we were informed that we would have to walk even though there were 4 shuttles sitting in the parking lot. They didnt have a shuttle available to take us to the fair. I was mad.

We get to the fair and try to make the best of a messed up situation. This weekend was not off to a good start. After walking around, we wandered into a restaurant that sat on the bay. We sat at a table for a half an hour and no one bothered to take our order. I had to go to a manager and find out what the problem was. He then signaled a waitress who proceeded to take our order. BTW, she made us feel very unwelcomed by her attitude and body language. Her excuse for not taking our order, she thought someone else was helping us. Mind you, this girl walked past our table at least 20 times and didn't even look our way. It took forever to get our food and a life time for a refill on drinks. Needless to say, we didn't leave a tip. When we got back in to town, we stopped by our favorite restaurant the Elephant Bar. It was so nice to be home and loved. We had drinks on our table within 5 minutes, and food another 10 minutes after that. Not only will we never stay at another Crowne Plaza hotel but that restaurant by the bay (I wish I could remember the name), will never see another dime from my wallet. Companies are shutting their doors daily. I suggest they go to their local Elephant Bar and learn how people should be treated. Shame on you Crowne plaza for treating your customers like crap. If I stop one person from staying at your hotel, I have done my job!!

Wordless "Happy 1st day of Fall" Wednesday

Fall in Southern Cal

Wordless "OOPS" Wednesday

DBF Michael and I were talking about football. He's a Raiders fan and Im a Chargers fan. 5 minutes after bagging on my Chargers...look what happened to the bottom of his Raider chair!!Yep, it collapsed. Can you say Karma????

Maxi Pads...Are you kidding me?

Dear Mr. Thatcher,

I have been a loyal user of your 'Always' maxi pads for over 20 years and I appreciate many of their features. Why, without the LeakGuard Core or Dri-Weave absorbency, I'd probably never go horseback riding or salsa dancing, and I'd certainly steer clear of running up and down the beach in tight, white shorts. But my favorite feature has to be your revolutionary Flexi-Wings. Kudos on being the only company smart enough to realize how crucial it is that maxi pads be aerodynamic. I can't tell you how safe and secure I feel each month knowing there's a little F-16 in my pants.

Have you ever had a menstrual period, Mr. Thatcher? I'm guessing you haven't. Well, my time of the month is starting right now. As I type, I can already feel hormonal forces violently surging through my body. Just a few minutes from now, my body will adjust and I'll be transformed into what my husband likes to call 'an inbred hillbilly with knife skills.' Isn't the human body amazing?

As Brand Manager in the Feminine-Hygiene Division, you've no doubt seen quite a bit of research on what exactly happens during your customer's monthly visits from 'Aunt Flo'. Therefore, you must know about the bloating, puffiness, and cramping we endure, and about our intense mood swings, crying jags, and out-of-control behavior. You surely realize it's a tough time for most women.

The point is, sir, you of all people must realize that America is just crawling with homicidal maniacs in Capri pants... Which brings me to the reason for my letter. Last month, while in the throes of cramping so painful I wanted to reach inside my body and yank out my uterus, I opened an Always maxi-pad, and there, printed on the adhesive backing, were these words: 'Have a Happy Period.'

Are you f------ kidding me? What I mean is, does any part of your tiny middle-manager brain really think happiness - actual smiling, laughing happiness, is possible during a menstrual period? Did anything mentioned above sound the least bit pleasurable? Well, did it, James? FYI, unless you're some kind of sick S&M freak, there will never be anything 'happy' about a day in which you have to jack yourself up on Motrin and Kahlua and lock yourself in your house just so you don't march down to the local Walgreen's armed with a hunting rifle and a sketchy plan to end your life in a blaze of glory.

For the love of God, pull your head out, man! If you have to slap a moronic message on a maxi pad, wouldn't it make more sense to say something that's actually pertinent, like 'Put down the Hammer' or 'Vehicular Manslaughter is Wrong',

Sir, please inform your Accounting Department that, effective immediately, there will be an $8 drop in monthly profits, for I have chosen to take my maxi-pad business elsewhere. And though I will certainly miss your Flex-Wings, I will not for one minute miss your brand of condescending bullshit.

And that's a promise I will keep. Always. . ..
Best,
Wendi Aarons
Austin , TX

Now thats funny......

Questions and Answers from the Doctor......

Q: Doctor, I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true?
A: Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that's it... don't waste them on exercise. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that's like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster. Want to live longer? Take a nap.

Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?
A: You must grasp logistical efficiencies. What does a cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So a steak is nothing more than an efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef is also a good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And a pork chop can give you 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vegetable products.

Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?
A: No, not at all. Wine is made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine, that means they take the water out of the fruity bit so you get even more of the goodness that way. Beer is also made out of grain. Bottoms up!

Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio?
A: Well, if you have a body and you have fat, your ratio is one to one. If you have two bodies, y our ratio is two to one, etc.

Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
A: Can't think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No Pain...Good!

Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?
A: YOU'RE NOT LISTENING!!! ...... Foods are fried these days in vegetable oil.. In fact, they're permeated in it. How could getting more vegetables be bad for you?

Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?
A: Definitely not! When you exercise a muscle, it gets bigger. You should only be doing sit-ups if you want a bigger stomach.

Q: Is chocolate bad for me?
A: Are you crazy? HELLO Cocoa beans ! Another vegetable!!! It's the best feel-good food around!

Q: Is swimming good for your figure?
A: If swimming is good for your figure, explain whales to me.

Q: Is getting in-shape important for my lifestyle?
A: Hey! 'Round' is a shape!

District 9 - Dont waste your money!

DBF Michael and I went to see District 9. I have to admit, I had my doubts when Michael first showed me the trailer. After seeing the reviews from the Yahoo Viewers and the Critics, I decided to give it a shot. There is only one thing to say, the Critics must be smoking dope because it was awful!! The background for the story is as follows:

In 1982, an alien ship stops directly above Johannesburg, South Africa. Reports suggest the ship became stranded after a command module separated from the ship and dropped to Earth, nowhere to be found. After cutting their way inside, a team discovers a large group of malnourished and leaderless arthropod-like aliens. The creatures, whom they derogatorily call prawns, are taken from the ship and housed in a government camp inside Johannesburg called District 9, which eventually turns into a slum. In the first decade of the 21st century, Multinational United (MNU), a private military contractor, is placed in charge of policing and relocating the 1.8 million aliens to District 10, a new camp 240 kilometers northwest of Johannesburg. Wikus van de Merwe (Sharlto Copley) is an MNU field operative assigned to manage the relocation operation. During the process, he gets sprayed with something the aliens made and he begins to turn into an alien himself.

About 20 minutes after that, we decided it wasnt going to get better. Not to mention, they shot it like an old documentary so the picture quality was total crap. The story, although original, ended up being completely stupid. I cant believe they are still putting butts in the seat for this movie. They must have read the same reviews we did. This is the last time I listen to the Critics. Their taste is obviously all in their mouth.

I give this movie 2 thumbs WAY down.....dont waste your money!!

RJBA News

Today I received this e-mail from RJBA. They still have me in their data bank even though I terminated their contract. Anyway, for what good this may do, Im forwarding on the info:


Dear Valued Customer,

Good News! (Really?? How about answering the phone and forwarding the child support payment you've stolen. Now that would be good news!)

As of today, Richard J. Boudreau & Associates, LLC has established a new website for its Child Support Enforcement Customers. The address is www.rjba.com . This website allows you to check your account history. In addition, please review the "frequently asked questions" section for helpful information.

(You can click below. I linked it)

http://www.rjba.com/services/faqs.html

Also, recent changes you may not be aware of:

* Payment options for Custodial Parents include check and direct deposit to checking/savings

* RJBA has partnered with ADP in the processing of payments in the form of direct deposit

* Email address for Customer Service childsupport@rjba.com

Thank you for your patience during the transition period from Supportkids Inc. to Richard J. Boudreau & Associates, LLC. We look forward to helping you recover the support monies due you and your family.


Richard J. Boudreau & Associates, LLC

Questions and Answers about Pregnancy.....

Q: Should I have a baby after 35?
A: No, 35 children is enough.

Q : I'm two months pregnant now. When will my baby move?
A: With any luck, right after he finishes college.

Q : What is the most reliable method to determine a baby's sex?
A: Childbirth..

Q: My wife is five months pregnant and so moody that sometimes she's
borderline irrational.
A: So what's your question?

Q : My childbirth instructor says it's not pain I'll feel during
labor, but pressure. Is she right?
A: Yes, in the same way that a tornado might be called an air current.

Q: When is the best time to get an epidural?
A: Right after you find out you're pregnant.

Q : Is there any reason I have to be in the delivery room while my
wife is in labor?
A: Not unless the word "alimony" means anything to you.

Q: Is there anything I should avoid while recovering from childbirth?
A: Yes, pregnancy.

Q : Do I have to have a baby shower?
A: Not if you change the baby's diaper very quickly.

Q : Our baby was born last week. When will my wife begin to feel and
act normal again?
A: When the kids are in college.

Supportkids Update

Dallas company buys SupportKids of Austin
ParentFinancial to relocate to Austin.

By Tim Eaton
AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF
Saturday, August 15, 2009

An Austin-based child-support collection company has been sold to a smaller Dallas-based company that operates the same type of business.

SupportKids Inc.'s caseload, computers, intellectual property, Web site and other assets now belong to ParentFinancial Services Inc., said Rob Feito, president and CEO of the Dallas company, on Friday.

Feito declined to disclose the terms of the deal, which closed Aug. 7.

SupportKids was purchased to expand the 8-year-old Dallas company, Feito said.

"Our intention moving forward is to operate in 35 states," he said.

But the immediate goal is to ensure that there is no negative effect on clients, he said. The Austin company once operated in 47 states.

"This is a positive transition for SupportKids, for its clients," Feito said. "We don't anticipate any disruption in services."

SupportKids encountered financial difficulties earlier this year. After defaulting on a loan, it was forced to turn over 20,000 of its 38,000 child-support collection cases to a New Hampshire-based law firm. The cases had been used as collateral on the loan.

ParentFinancial will continue to honor that contract, Feito said.

ParentFinancial, which will move its headquarters to Austin, expects to hire 25 to 30 former SupportKids employees, Feito said.

The Austin company once had 200 employees but laid off an undisclosed number when it lost the 20,000 cases earlier this year.

Some of the first rehires will include workers who have been working without pay, Feito said.

SupportKids CEO Bryon Sehlke and some other executives also will work for Parent-

Financial, Feito said.

Sehlke was unavailable for comment.

Depending on growth, more people could be brought on board next year, Feito said.

teaton@statesman.com; 445-3631


I didnt see RJBA in there anywhere?? I wonder what happens to the parents that signed their contract? Did they go out of business? OMG, what a mess!! Thanks Tim for the information and Andrea for the heads up.

How to get out of your Supportkids/RJBA contract

I just received an e-mail from a former Supportkids employee. There is some interesting information you all need to know that may help in your fight to gain control of your child support. Here is a quote directly from the letter I received:

The fastest and easiest way to stop Supportkids is by pulling your change of address with the state. Almost every state, except TX hates SK and will do this over the phone. This also makes them crazy because it takes time for them to reinstate it. As long you continue to change it to your address there isn't much SK or RJBA can do about it.

That is easy to do. I did it by going directly thru my State's government website. It took about 5 minutes. This person also had some informative information about RJBA:

RJBA has never had any experience with child support in any way shape or form. They bought paper, with no clue what to do with it or how to enforce it. They are clueless with customer service, payment processing and enforcement and at the time I was there had no intentions of setting any of those departments up. They didn't even know what computer software SK was running or how to operate it. RJBA is a basic credit card collection agency, specilizing in 3rd party debt in a warehouse type office. There is not one employee who has any clue about Child Support and the laws!! They didn't hire me, thankfully, and I have experience with the very paper they bought, so who did they hire? They couldn't have had many who applied who actually worked with SK and had my experience. I doubt they had any. I interviewed with them and in the interview, red flags were waving in my head.

The person that contacted me said she/he will answer questions about SK. I'm waiting to get an OK from this person to release the e-mail address.

I knew RJBA was a hoax. They didn't have a permit to collect child support when they took over. Its a shame that so many have fallen victim to their inexperience and lack of compassion for the cause. Not to mention, they are collecting 34% for a job that they have no idea how to do. I hope this enlightens the struggling custodial parents out there. Act fast and change your address. I wouldn't tell the DA that you were with SK. Tell them you are filing a change of address and see how it goes. They didn't ask me anything when I changed mine. I will keep you posted.

Thank you to the person that sent me the e-mail and requested to remain anonymous for legal reasons. Your e-mail was quite educational.

Premature Ventricular Contractions or PVC's

Among the many different types of irregular heart beats, few have created as much confusion and frustration among both doctors and patients as premature ventricular comtractions (PVCs). In various doctors’ offices, and at various points in history, PVCs have been regarded as either precursor of impending death, or as completely benign phenomena that require no attention whatsoever.Patients who feel entirely well tend to think their doctors are a little nuts when they recommend aggressive measures in response to finding PVCs on a routine ECG. Patients who are plagued by PVC-induced palpitations regard their doctors as being cruel and heartless when they refuse to entertain therapy for such a benign condition. What's a patient to do?

I started having PVC's almost 3 months ago. They showed up out of nowhere and have yet to go away. What happens when a PVC's hits? Your heart skips a beat. With me, I can tell when they are going to start. Its hard to explain but I have a strange sensation in my chest. Almost like a pressure. Then, its like a very strong palpitation. Almost like you had too much caffeine. When you feel your pulse, you can tell when your heart stops and starts again. Its pretty scary. My EKG was normal and the holter monitor showed PVC's but I already knew that. What did my doctor do about it? She told me to drink plenty of water (I drink 6 to 8 glasses a day), get lots of rest (I sleep 7 to 8 hours a night), and cut down on the caffeine (I only have 1 cup of coffee a day). I dont know how a person that was normal 3 months ago can suddenly be plagued with such a scary, irritating, and confusing condition.

There are many people out there going thru the same thing that I am. How do I make them stop forever? When they aren't happening, I'm normal and have no other issues. When they happen, I'm waiting for my heart to stop forever. The cardiologists weren't concerned enough to see me after my holter monitor. They referred me back to my primary physician. I don't understand. How can they say there is nothing to be concerned about when your heart stops and restarts itself? That cant be normal. The only thing this has made me think about is making a living trust so that if something happens, my family will know my wishes. I'm only 42 years old. I recently lost 55 pounds. I exercise on a regular basis. Why did this happen? True, I have a high stress level but that is a part of every day life. I feel hopeless. I recently ordered a book to help me deal with this problem as it appears to be here for good. If it helps, I will give you a full review. Until then, if anyone has any suggestions or experience with PVC's, please share what you know.

Wordless "1930's" Wednesday

Wordless Wednesday

The Supportkids/RJB Conspiracy

As many of you have read, Supportkids sold out to RJB because of a bad loan. It left many parents scrabbling to try and save the child support they were getting. We received a farewell letter from Supportkids, and a welcome letter from RJB. When most of us attempted to contact RJB, we were unsuccessful. Voice mails were left as well as e-mails, and they all went unanswered. The moment I found out about the transaction, I notified my DA's office in California and sent a termination letter via certified mail to RJB. My blog was used by struggling custodial parents to communicate back and forth about their experience. At the time of the transfer, RJB was not licensed to collect child support. I think many parents ended up falling thru the cracks. They were left bewildered and exasperated by the whole experience. No one was getting any explanation from either company as to what actually happened.

Id like to know the status of the parents that were having issues with their state offices. Has anything been resolved? One mother had money collected and directly deposited into an account but no one could answer for the whereabouts of the funds nor which account they were deposited into. I'm praying that the issue was resolved and her funds were found. I have continued to get my child support directly from the DA and I know some others were successful too. This needs to be the case for all parents that signed up for Supportkids.

Does anyone have any new information to share for the thousands of parents still suffering at the hands of the Supportkids/RJB conspiracy?

Gotta love Maxine...she makes me laugh!

I was in the bar yesterday when I suddenly realized I desperately needed to fart. The music was really, really loud, so I timed my farts with the beat. After a couple of songs, I started to feel better. I finished my scotch and noticed that everybody was staring at me. Then I suddenly remembered that I was listening to my iPod.

Wordless "OUCH" Wednesday

Dont try to be a manly man...remember, you're a girl. You might break a nail!

Wordless "Loving Summer" Wednesday

Wordless Wednesday

Something to remember......

Live as simply as you can. "Want for nothing" is the phrase that comes to mind, meaning that what you truly need you already have. Everything else is just the making of man in the material world. If all must come completely undone, so be it. We will still be standing in the end. Love one another for love is indestructible as long as we have it in our hearts. Beyond that, what else matters? From love, all things we truly want will come.





Thanks for the inspiration Anna!!

Wordless Wednesday

It seems that all we hear about on the News these days is Michael Jackson. Lets not forgot our soldiers.

Nutrisystem works. I lost 55 pounds!!

Each one equals 1 lb of fat then multiply it by 55

I started Nutrisystems last October and had lost 48 pounds by April. I was getting burned out on the food so I decided to try things on my own. In 2 months I've lost an addition 7 pounds. To date, I am keeping it off. The scale hasnt gone down in a couple weeks but it's not going up either. To get a true concept of what 55 pounds of fat looks like, I surfed the net. I found a picture of 100 pounds of fat and I cut it in half. When you look at it sprawled on a table (that is 50 pounds in the picture above), it looks pretty massive. I remember Oprah losing a bunch of weight a few years back so I went on her site to see if there was a picture. Do you remember when she wheeled out a wagon full of the weight she had lost? It was 67 pounds. So I guess I have lost a little less than a wagon full, or 12 pounds less than whats in the wagon.

(Oprah in a size 10)

Many people will say Nutrisystems doesnt work, they hate the food, or the company is a rip off. I didnt have any bad experiences. The only adjustment was my will power and my portions. If you follow their plan, you WILL lose weight. Dont forget your water. Is the food gourmet? No. Isnt gourmet food what got me where I was to begin with? OK, maybe not gourmet but definitely fast food. We ate out quite a bit and I never drank water. I tend to be a stress eater so I was always munching. I had no one to blame but myself. I must confess, I was scared to go off the plan because I thought I would gain it all back. It appears, I actually learned something. In the 7 months I was on Nutrisystems I taught myself how to say no, to walk away from temptation, and to get daily exercise. I have substituted their food for lean cuisine. I still drink my water and get exercise at least 5 times a week.

It cost me $234 a month to be on the Nutrisystems flex plan. I ate their food during the week and was on my own during the weekend. I think thats what helped me stay on the plan, if I had to do it 7 days a week I would have quit. I went from a size 26 to a 14. I even have 1 size 12 pants so it can be done. I have finally lost the 54 pounds I gained with my first pregnancy 21 years ago. I feel great. My energy level is so high now, its actually funny. And another thing I noticed, I was always hot before. The fan on my desk at work was constantly running. Now, I never use my fan and I rarely get overheated. Its amazing how my life and attitude have changed.

Dont give up on yourself if you really want to lose weight. It can be done. For all those people that bad mouth Nutrisystems, I want you to know that I am their biggest fan.

Wordless "I can so relate" Wednesday

Michael Jackson Dies at the age of 50

1958-2009

Michael Jackson died today of cardiac arrest in a house he was renting outside of Los Angeles. It was reported that he was dead before he made it to the hospital. They tried to revive him for an hour with no luck.

Most people my age grew up listening to his music. I was once a big fan, then after the allegations of molestation, I quickly lost interest and respect. However, he was a very talented singer. While listening to his music on all the radio stations coming home from work today I realized how long he has been around. He was only 8 years older than I am. Life really is too short. Treasure what you have and be thankful on a daily basis. Im sorry that he didnt get the help he needed both physically and mentally. God bless his family and may he rest in peace.

Wordless Wednesday

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I love this picture.....Someones else's beautiful baby!

Supportkids Complaints

As many people have read, Supportkids is out of business. Wait, or was it that they kept all the accounts that don't make money and gave the ones that do to RJBA?? How could that be possible? They were hurting for money to begin with and then defaulted on a loan. I believe that was the story we were told. My question is, if they couldn't keep the accounts that kept them afloat then how can they stay in business when they gave our cases away as collateral to RJBA? I'm not sure if we will ever know the true story. RJBA doesn't return calls or e-mails. Ive heard they are rude, nasty, and make threats to parents in search of their payments that have been received but not distributed. And Supportkids appears to have washed their hands. Nice job guys!

There is hope though. I sent a termination letter almost a month ago and had the account information thru the D.A. switched over to my own account. I did that at the state disbursement website. This particular website is for California only.To date, I have received two payments directly from the D.A. for the full amount. Alot of mothers have been working their butts off to stay on top of things and for some, it has paid off. You must be unrelenting and find out the laws in your state. Anyone can be a victim but Id like us all to be victorious in our fight. If you have any information to share regarding this situation, please keep me posted.

Wordless "its time to party" Wednesday

My sister getting me drunk at Brad's Grad party....OK, maybe I helped a little;)

Wordless "HE DID IT" Wednesday

For those of you who havent signed yet, please take a moment to sign the Supportkids petition..

We cant be heard if we dont speak out. Please, sign the petition whether you are a victim of Supportkids or just believe in the cause:

You can find the petition here!


Thank You...

UP 2009...what a great movie!!

Last weekend, DBF Michael and I went and saw the movie UP. Not to mention, we did the 3D version. Wow, what awesome graphics. The story started out a little dark so I wasn't sure where they were going to go from there. It didn't take long before I realized they were going straight up!! There were tons of laughs throughout the movie. Although, I wouldn't expect anything less from Pixar. I don't think I have heard Michael laugh that hard at a movie in a very long time. We went without children (well, I only have a 17 year old left at home so technically without my child) and I was surprised that the majority of the viewers were adults.

If you haven't seen the previews, here is a brief description of what the story is based on. By tying thousands of balloon to his home, 78-year-old Carl Fredricksen sets out to fulfill his lifelong dream to see the wilds of South America. Right after lifting off, however, he learns he isn't alone on his journey, since Russell, a wilderness explorer 70 years his junior, has inadvertently become a stowaway on the trip. They come across some funny and evil characters along the way. The way it all tied(no pun intended) together was perfect. I would definitely give this movie two thumbs up. This is one we will definitely add to our movie collection.

Wordless "still remodeling" Wednesday

BEFORE

AFTER

Supportkids is using our child support as collateral!!

Supportkids transfers 20,000 of child-support collection cases after loan default
Austin-based company says it will serve remaining clients.

By Tim Eaton
AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF
Thursday, May 28, 2009

As a result of a recent loan default, Austin-based Supportkids Inc. was forced to transfer a portion of its child-support collection cases to a New Hampshire-based law firm.

Supportkids CEO Byron Sehlke said Supportkids unloaded 20,000 cases to Richard J. Boudreau & Associates on May 14,

leaving Supportkids with 18,000 cases, many of which are nonpaying.

"This was not our decision," Sehlke said.

Boudreau & Associates didn't respond to a request for comment.

Supportkids, a for-profit company that collects money from parents who are behind on their child-

support payments, said in a letter to clients that the organization was unable to refinance a loan with an unnamed lender.

As a result, the lender handed over the cases, which Supportkids had used as collateral on the loan, to Boudreau & Associates.

Sehlke called the situation "a function of the credit crisis." He added that the company, which has laid off an undisclosed number of employees, remains in transition but will continue to serve its remaining clients and accept new ones.

Affected clients of Supportkids were told in the letter that Supportkids no longer has current information on their cases and that Boudreau & Associates has their case files and should be contacted with questions or for new information on their cases.

Supportkids had tried unsuccessfully to reach a cooperative agreement with the lender and Boudreau & Associates to arrange for a transition period, so the company was not able to notify clients in advance of their cases being transferred, the letter said.

Supportkids charges an initial $475 case development fee and takes a 34 percent commission on overdue child-support payments. When it accepts a case, it requires that the parent who is behind on the payments send the money to the company, which takes its cut and forwards the balance to the parent who is caring for the child or children. Sehlke said the company takes only the toughest cases.

teaton@statesman.com; 445-3631


Thank You Mr. Eaton for the low down on our situation. They cant use our child support as collateral against a loan default. Its against the law. Basically, they are using their 34% from our child support to pay their debt. And FYI Michelle, if they say that they will hold your money and refuse to pay you until their direct deposit form is signed, that's extortion.

RJBA and the Supportkids Out of Business Saga

This is what I received in the mail today. I have a few things to say. If the contract is legally binding, why do they need a conference call between me and the DA's office? Wouldn't they just send a copy of the contact to the DA's office rather than have me give the OK? If it is in fact legally binding. On the copy of the direct deposit form its states something very alarming to me:

By signing below, I hereby agree to have any child support arrearage payments deposited into my bank account with said number as shown on this form/check. I authorize Richard J. Boudreau & Associates, LLC and/or its agents or ASSIGNS TO RECOVER ANY FUNDS ERRONEOUSLY DEPOSITED INTO MY ACCOUNT THROUGH A DEBIT FROM MY ACCOUNT.

So, not only would you be giving them access to put money in, but take it out. Am I correct on this one? Recover funds Erroneously Deposited into my account? They plan on making errors on the deposits before they even have the job? RJBA claims to be an attorneys office. I think they are full of crap. They did not send a new contract for me to sign. What Im getting out of this is that by signing the direct deposit slip and having a conversation via conference call with RJBA and the DA, Im basically giving them access to my money. I dont think so. By the way, what happened to the one payment they got from the DA on 5/18 before I was able to change my disbursement? Where is my money?? I dont know about you guys, but this company does not sound right. Anyone else get one of these?

Wordless "OMG" Wednesday

Some people scare me.....it really makes you wonder!

God bless our Soldiers and their families on this Memorial Day..

RJBA - The Supportkids take over

I logged into my Supportkids account today thanks to Redhatty giving me a heads up. This is what I found:

Your child support case is now being serviced by Richard J. Boudreau & Associates.

Richard J. Boudreau & Associates (RJBA) can be reached at:

Mail:	Richard J. Boudreau & Associates, LLC 5 Industrial Way Salem, NH 03079
Phone:	1-866-997-2449
Email:	childsupport@rjba.com

Supportkids, Inc. is no longer servicing you case. We wish you the best in your child support efforts.

The last statement is what really grabbed my attention. I thought maybe it was saying we were on our own now. No such luck. After thinking about what is being said, I have concluded its telling us good luck with RJBA. Got it!

Also, regarding RJBA. I have heard a number of complaints regarding a person that works there named "Pam". One of them really made me made. In Laurens words:

Pam, kept jabbing at me about how I chose to live my life etc, none of which is relevant to collecting my past due support. In our last verbal phone battle she actually told me 'she would have to think about how much more of HER company's money she was going to spend on this case, or if she was going to put this on the back burner'.

Excuse me?? How much more of HER companies money she is going to spend?? First of all, it is our child support that kept SK in business and would continue to do so for RJBA when our cases are forwarded to them. Second of all, who is she to talk to any of us that way? They are not a child support enforcement agency, they are a collection company. We dont owe them anything. Our debts are because of dead beat parents that refuse to pay child support. We didnt take out a loan and are refusing to make payments. The money comes to us from THEM secondary to the DA (for most cases) collecting on our behalf. It appears that PAM needs to get off of her soap box and remember who she is working for. Its just another reason why I wish they were in my state. Id love to see these people face to face. I guarantee they wouldnt be talking to any of us that way if we were upclose and personal. She hides behind a phone line and thinks that this gives her the right to treat people in that manner. Shame on you RJBA for hiring a person with such poor customer service skills. We are not the enemy, we are the victims (for lack of a better term). You are trying to collect money for us, not from us. It appears that PAM has never been in our situation. If she had, Im sure her attitude would be completely different. Although, I guess it all depends on the person. Where's the compassion?? I think that's what is missing from both of these companies.

Memorial Day

I am lucky that my son made it home from Iraq. Some other families arent as fortunate. Lets not forget that. Pay your respects to our Military for risking their lives for our freedom.

Please sign this petition against Supportkids!!

We cant be heard if we dont speak out. Please, sign the petition whether you are a victin of Supportkids or just believe in the cause:

You can find the petition here!


Thank You...

Supportkids...Yes, they're out of business!

As many of you know, Supportkids have gone under. We have been instructed to call a new company, Richard J. Boudreau & Associates (RJBA) and they can be reached at 1-866-997-2449. So, how many of you have contacted this number? I left a message on Friday and still haven't heard anything back. They also gave an e-mail address of childsupport@rjba.com. Well, Ive tried to get a response that way as well with no luck. On Friday after I got the news, I contacted the DA's office. I would like to give a special shout out to the staff at the San Bernardino District Attorney, Child Support division. They have been nothing but helpful. I was instructed to write a letter stating I no longer wanted Supportkids handling my case, I took a copy of my ID, and faxed it over. I got a call today from "Barbara", who told me that Supportkids was having my money directly deposited into their account. Oh no, I thought, what now? I dont remember approving my money to be direct deposited into anyones account. The DA's office said that this is how it works when you sign their contract. Figures!! I was then instructed to log onto www.casdu.com (for California, your state will have its own site) and change my direct deposit information. The DA's office gave me my account number, which is something you will need. After you log in, go down to the bottom of the screen where it says "Set up Direct Deposit." Change the information in the state disbursement to your own account and you are set!!

Id also like to add something to this post. This is dedicated to all the people that don't think single parents deserve nice things. Why not? Just because the non custodial parent refused to pay on their own, does that mean I have to live my life in poverty? Am I really undeserving? Ive spent MANY years supporting 2 boys on my own. My oldest is now in the Navy and just returned from Iraq, my youngest is graduating from High School next month. For a very long time I robbed from Peter to pay Paul. My kids did without alot of things. They never knew the stresses I dealt with on a regular basis or the tears I shed for bills I could not pay. Now, I own a home of my own. I took a home improvement loan out so that I could make my house into something I was proud of. Then, I get these idiots making nasty remarks because I have nice things. I pay my mortgage like everyone else. Who are they to pass judgement on me? Supportkids kids doesn't pay me enough monthly to cover half of my mortgage yet these same people say that Supportkids paid for my pool?? Or my new stove?? What's wrong with this picture and why are these people so filled with hate? Dead beat Dad maybe? The $300 dollars a month I get from them (or should I say got from them) did not make or break me. However, alot of people depend on every penny of that court order for their survival and that of their children. I learned to live without it, I had to. That does not give any company the right to feed off of the desperate. I put information on this site to help other parents. This is not a chat room or a forum for people to lash out. This is my blog that I started 2 years ago to fight Supportkids. I don't have time or patience to deal with people that have nothing better to do that surf the Internet for a fight. If you don't like what I write, move on. If you dont have something helpful and pertinent to the discussion at hand, dont say it. Ive done a great job raising 2 men and I did it for 10 years without child support. I will tell you one thing, I know neither one of them will end up doing to their children what their father did to them.

Take the information I have and use it if you need to. If you are happy with the services provided to you by Supportkids or the company that will be replacing them, more power to you. Im not here to change your mind, Im here to help the people that need it. Unless you have walked a mile in any of our shoes, you dont know shit about this topic. And the bottom line on that one is, I could care less what you have to say and neither do the rest of us.

Wordless "the grad ticket experience" Wednesday

At my sons school, they dont just give you tickets for graduation, you have to wait for them...



When I got to the school at 5:30 AM, this is what I found....




Yep, you have to camp there to get Home Side seats...I guess I didnt get the memo on that one!!





You wait in line just to get a ticket to be in line. 4 1/2 hours later, I got tickets on the Visitor side of the field. They sold out of home side seats 20 people before me. Oh well, I cant lose site of why Im going there. Its not for the best seat in the house, its to see my baby graduate....Im glad I dont have to do THAT again!!!

Supportkids...out of business???

I started this blog to warn people about Supportkids. They are a company (or should I say WERE) that fed off of desperate single parents trying to get child support. I opened my case in 2002. Since then, they have taken over $25,000 dollars from my kids and I. Every time I tried to terminate my contract, I was denied. Several people have responded to my blog with horror stories of their own. We all had the same question, what can we do to stop them?? Well my friends, I think our ship has finally come in. Thanks to a fellow victim Redhatty, I was just informed Supportkids is no longer. Yes, thats right!! For those of you who have a case with them, log into the website and it will inform you that they are no longer handling your case. This is the information you will see on their website:

Your child support case is now being serviced by Richard J. Boudreau & Associates.

Richard J. Boudreau & Associates (RJBA) can be reached at:
Phone: 1-866-997-2449

Email:

childsupport@rjba.com

Mail: Richard J. Boudreau & Associates, LLC
5 Industrial Way
Salem, NH 03079

I hope that my blog and experience has had a hand in putting this company out of business. I cant tell you how relieved I am that the thousands of single parents struggling to make ends meet might finally get a break. They were allowed to do what they did for far too long. Its about time that someone stepped up to the plate and did something to put them out of business. I have contacted them (RJBA) via phone and e-mail regarding my case. This development is very recent as I just logged in on Tuesday and the information above was not posted. I suggest you get your information about your case to the above people ASAP so that you dont get lost in the system. I was instructed that a fedex package will be coming within the week with more information. WOOHOO!!!! We won!!!!! I will keep you posted.

Where have I been?

As many of you have noticed, I haven't been posting like I use to. There are a couple reasons for that. 1st of all, I dissolved my contract with Divorce 360. I got tired of writing about relationship issues when I wasn't having any, and after 2 years, it just got old. Not to mention, I was constantly chasing them to get paid. It wasn't worth it to me anymore. Secondly, I have been remodeling my home. My stress level these days has been off the charts. Work is hard (especially lately) and home is complicated when you have to live your life around contractors so I havent had much rest. Although, last weekend for the first time in a long time, I relaxed. We have 3 contractors coming to the house on Monday to do 3 different things and it all starts again. It took me 6 weeks to get my kitchen back, now my bathroom is going to be gutted and new doors for the house are being installed. Not to mention, I have a son coming home from Iraq on June 8th and my youngest graduating on June 10th. Did I tell you Ive been planning a party as well? I cant wait to breathe. After this next stint with the contractors, I'm gonna give it a rest for a while and enjoy my oldest sons visit home. That includes a week off from work. Thank God! I need to find medium ground someplace so I can gather my thoughts. I don't even sit down to watch television for any length of time these days because there is so much to do. I know I will get thru this but right now, life is tough.

I would like to give you an update on my nutrisystem progress as well but that will come later. I may be stressed to the max but I look fabulous!!! I just have to remember thru all of this what my Mom tells me on a regular basis: "This too shall pass." I certainly hope so. However, I enjoy my pool when I can and I cant thank my jacuzzi enough for helping the tension leave my body **heavy sigh** I will keep you posted!

Wordless Wednesday

While one son is having fun in the new pool, the other one is riding Camels in Iraq. Everyone needs some down time. Why not?

Wordless "so tired of remodeling" Wednesday

Before

ALMOST After....just a few more things to do!