Nick Bollea (Hogan) - Speed Demon

I have been reading and watching the news about Nick Hogan's accident. The Hogan's are local celebrities, Hulk grew up here and graduated from a local high school. They have a mansion on the gulf in Bellair, a house on Clearwater Beach, and a Mansion in Miami. I also occasionally watch Hogan Knows Best, and have been a wrestling fan of his since I was younger.
For those who have been living under a rock, Nick Hogan, 17 yr old son of WWF Wrestler Hulk Hogan, was racing his car in downtown Clearwater and slammed it rear first into a palm tree, totalling the car. He was treated & released for minor injuries, his passenger, a 22 yr old Marine who served in Iraq, is in a medically induced coma.
According to eyewitnesses, he was seen racing & hotdogging with a Silver Dodge Viper right before said accident.
Before the accident, Nck, a friend, and his Father, Hulk Hogan, were seen in a boat in the water at Shepards, a popular local beach bar on Clearwater Beach. Being on a boat outside of Shepards is not illegal for a 17 yr old, as they are on the water and not IN the bar.....but Nick and a friend apparently tried to go to the tiki bar and were turned away at the door when carded. Where was his Father when this was going on?
There have been conflicting reports daily, and this all seems, to the outsider, like it is being run by the Keystone Kops. One report, earlier this week, stated that the driver of the Viper stopped after the accident and was interviewed by police. Now a report has come out that states "driver of the Viper was not Hulk Hogan, but unsure who the car is registered to and who the driver was"....? (Hulk owns a Viper) Seems to me it would be fairly easy for law enforcement type personnel to find out whose car it is. And, if the driver was at the scene & interviewed, how do you not know who it was now?
A very popular attorney has been retained by the Hogans, J Kevin Hayslett. He specializes in DUI cases. Interesting.
Nick is only 17, so has only had a valid license for a year...but he already has 3 speeding tickets. THREE. One of them for doing over 100 mph in a 70! You would think, as parents, that there would have been some sort of restrictions placed on his driving seeing as how he has THREE speeding tickets that we are aware of!
From watching their show, I can see that Nick is a typical young boy, with a need for speed....he's even a rookie race car driver. Apparently his racing part time at the track is not enough to fill that need, as he does it on our local streets as well.
All of this has tainted my view of the Hogan's, and their parenting skills. If you watch his show, it seems like he doesn't allow his daughter to do anything (and she's the older one) , and pretty much allows his Son to do whatever he wants...which has become painfully obvious this week.
I do hope that the injured passenger pulls out of this okay. And I also hope that justice is served and there is not a lot of cover up. Because, it will all eventually come out...and they will look like they used their money and status to get Nick out of it.

Read

You can read about my Mom's test results here.

Free!

Free movie pass to see The Kingdom , check and see if the free screening is at a theatre near you! There is not one near me : (

Nearly Free: $8 coupon for Iams Healthy Naturals dog food here , I can't use this one either now that Snoopy is on prescription diet!

For Joe, here's your favorite girl from Gray's Anatomy pimping a free sample of Folger's Gourmet Selections coffee here !!

Free sample of Aqua Fresh Advanced toothpaste here

Labor Day Weekend

Did you people know that this weekend is Labor Day? Why didn't anyone tell me? You all know what a crappy summer I've had, and Labor Day signifies the END of summer...so maybe things will pick up for me soon? Hmmm??
I'm headed over to Mom's this weekend to spend some time with her....I thought we'd pack a lunch and take a ride out to the beach and watch the cruise ships go out, they like to do that.
What are YOU doing this holiday weekend?

Dress

Does anybody wear Evening Dresses anymore? Or, do we wear them and not call them that? I have been known to get dolled up on occasion, fancy dinner on a cruise...or if you are going to a wedding or fancy party...it can be fun! I actually have a little black coctail dress that belonged to my Grandmother, my cousin gave it to me...and you know the right evening dress never really goes out of style. I hope to have occasion to wear someday soon!
This is a sponsored post.

Dear Crissy...

Please choose my entry in your 50 for $50 contest as the winner! I promise to put the money to good use!
Yes, Crissy, over at Dear Crissy, is hosting a contest where you can win $50 U.S. smackers! You have to go over to her site to check out the rules and fine print......or don't go- and increase MY chances of winning! She has a nice blog, so you can hang out there for a while reading all of her personal business...and then forget to do the entry...which will also increase MY chances of winning!

Super FUNNY!

Saw Superbad this weekend, and it was the funniest movie I have seen in a long time!
Rated R for RAUNCHY - We knew it was going to live up to the hype as when we got inside the theatre, they were checking ticket stubs and ID again before you could go find a seat! It was full of foul language, and F bombs, so don't take the kiddies! McLovin was the sleeper, he was not one of the 2 main characters, but I predict big things for him, he was hilarious!
I will probably be buying the DVD - it was that funny!

Tampa Bay Lightning Unveil New Logo...?

Maybe it's just me, but the new logo looks very similiar to the old logo, without the word "Lightning" on the jersey patch.....the lettering of "Tampa Bay" looks updated, and the lightning bolt has more of a 3-d look with the black on the side, and they changed the jersey color to black. Other than that.....It's the same.

I'm dissappointed, I was hoping for a drastic new & improved update.

Busy

I have a lot on my plate today.....already put some miles on my new shoes, trying to break them in. Now I have to run around in the car:

• Go by the Vet and pick up more food for Snoopy
• Stop for cheap gas (2.48/gal) conveniently located on the way to Vet
• Grocery store (I'm going to cook today)
• Take recycling stuff to the center
• Snoopy's feeling so good, we're going to have a trip to the dog park later this evening when it starts to cool down!
  
  
  

Hot

It's about Eleventy Jillion degrees out, and 900% humidity...and I decide to get up early and go on a training walk this morning.
Yeah.
Early in Florida does not mean cooler weather...I think I'll stick with my evening walks, they seem to be much cooler and don't give me swollen sausage fingers!

Quiz Kid

Are you addicted to trivia? Personality quizzes and such? Always trying to increase your brain power? Now you can get your fix with online quizzes! You can takes quizzes on their site, and you can even create your own quizzes and post them to your site! They also have personality tests you can take, and create badges for your site or MySpace page!
This is a sponsored post.

Friday Freebies!

Snoopy i son a prescription diet now, but you can sign up for a free 5lb bag of Natural Way dog food here.

Free Kashi snack here.

Free sample of Tetley Tea here.

BB8

So last night, Jen took the game to a whole new level by being the first contestant to ever CHEAT! Yep, she went down in Big Brother history. I can't believe she ate, when she was supposed to be on slop! Think she wanted to go home? And then, she has the audacity to say that she didn't even want to go to the sequester house, and could care less about the money..that being on the show wasn't about the money..?!! Huh? Then why are you there? To meet guys? OF COURSE IT'S ABOUT THE MONEY YOU IDIOT! Send her home, there are people there who need the money. Now, let's get on with the game.

Memory Walk

Most all of you know that I am walking 60 miles in the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer 3 Day. If you didn't know that....you've not been listening properly! The commitment to walk also requires a fundraising commitment from each participant. My Sister, who is also walking in the 3 Day, has recently signed up for the Alzheimer's Association Memory Walk, as a team captain! The Memory Walk is the nations largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support and research. Unfortunately, I cannot walk with her, as it is the same weekend as my 3 day walk, or I would be there - but I will be in Philly walking for a different cause! But, I can help her raise some money for this great cause! She has set a goal of $500, and if you want to help her out with a donation, you can search for her team, Bloggers for a Cure, at the memory walk site by clicking the picture above.
This is a cause near and dear to both of us, we lost our Grandpop to Alzheimers...and my Mother's husband is exhibiting signs of early onset Alzheimers...so we have been getting some testing done on him. I think that just about everyone knows someone who's life has been touched by this disease, and the more money and awareness we can raise to find a cure , the better.

All Night Long!

Snoopy slept all night...which means I slept all night! No nocturnal interruptions! No asking to go outside at 3am! No leakage!! YAY!!
Umm....and what did you THINK this post was going to be about ya sickos?!

John Couey Sentencing Day

Today is the sentencing of John Couey. I went into an entire rant on this dirtbag when his trial was on.....I hope he gets the death sentence. They played a taped phone conversation between he & his Aunt on the news....he stated in that conversation that "he felt some good came out of all this"..?! And SHE AGREED! Sick sick people. You murdered and raped a young girl, and then buried her alive...HOW did something good come out of that?! Ol' Sparky is waiting for you. Get on your knees and find God now, before it is too late.

Bikes

I used to have a nice bike. My bike died after the move to my condo. It died from exposure to the elements. That's the problem with living in a condo with limited storage....no place to put that sort of thing. They have bike racks all over the complex, but the heat and rain eventually get them, no matter how hard you try to keep them protected. I've been thinking lately that I would like a bike again, I live right on the trail...so I could ride all the time, especially when the weather getts cooler. What I need is a ceiling mount bike rack, so I can keep it protected from the weather, either on the balcony or in my spare room.
This is a sponsored post.

FREE Chik Fil A !!

Register here to get a coupon for a free chicken sandwich and Coke from Chik Fil A!!

Weather

The weather surprised me this morning. When I stepped out to take Snoopy for his morning walk, I expected to be enveloped in a humidity.....I was not. It was....dare I say....pleasant..? It did not feel humid, or eve hot...it felt...nice. I'm sure it's a passing thing, and we'll be sweating again very soon...I'll enjoy it while I can.

Credit

Credit cards can be a great tool if used properly. I believe you should be able to pay off the balance monthly, unless it's a large purchase that was budgeted for, or an emergency. If you do have to use them, always try to find the best credit card offer that is available, be it lower interest rate, zero balance transfer, and work it to your advantage. There are a lot out there, so a little research on the best interest rates can save you a lot of money in the long run.
This is a sponsored post.

Hmmm.

With everything that's happened this week, I am re-thinking my position on the trip. I'm not saying I am going for sure, but I am back on the fence and seriously considering it. If everything falls into place that needs to, then I will know it was meant to be. In the meantime, I'll be praying about it.

Charge It

I need one of these for the 3 day walk, to keep my cell phone charged - there's no place for me to plug anything in at camp! Eek! So, I was thinking this would be a great prize for one of my Sister's contests! Ha....yes, hold a contest where this is the prize, and then fix it so I win! I think that is a fabulous idea!

Stuff

Posted the latest on my Mom's health over here at the new blog.
Tough week.

Here's a freebie to lift our (my) spirits -

Free sample of Cottonelle Fresh Wipes here

Reality

I love reality TV, I watch almost all of them....Survivor, Big Brother, Biggest Loser, Amazing Race....I've even been sneaking a peak at Fat March the past few weeks, though it has not held my attention. I also love You Tube..you can get lost for hours at a time watching videos of people performing idiocy for the world, and old clips from shows & commercials. Well, a new show has come out that combines my love of both of these, The Next Internet Millionaire! It's 12 people competing for a $25,000 prize and joint venture with Joel Comm, a leading internet entrepeneur....I guess the "joint venture" is going to be worth $975,000 to make up the difference? Not sure, I'll have to watch it and see what happens! Right on my computer! Oh, and bonus, you'll learn how to make money online while watching!
This is a sponsored post.

Michael Vick : GUILTY

I knew he was lying.
How dare you, you scumbag.
What gives you the right to use a helpless animal as a plaything? As a pawn in your little game? What kind of sick person does this?
And then, to stand in front of a news camera and LIE to the entire world. Through your freaking teeth!
Do you think because you are the highest paid player in the NFL that you are immune to justice? That you can do anything you want, and be above the law?
Now, seeing as they have SEVEN witnesses to testify against you, you have talked it over with your family and have decided you are sorry?
I do not believe you are sorry for what you did. I believe you are sorry that you got caught.
I hope you go to jail. For a long time. I hope you never play football again. Because you are in the NFL, a high profile player who should be a role model, you should be held to a higher standard, and a stiffer pentaly.
I hope when you try to rest at night you hear the cries of the dogs you hurt. I hope this haunts you for a very long time.
As far as I am concerned, you are done. Any team that ever tries to sign you on, I am done with them as well.

Hurricane Dean

Hurricane Season. One of the reasons I would like to get out of Florida.
I am so thankful that this storm didn't come anywhere near us, and I hope the people of Mexico prepared properly. As predicted, Dean reached Category 5 before making landfall on the Yucatan coast, will probably drop to a Cat 2, and then regain strength when it gets back over the warm gulf water, and then hit Central Mexico. Again, I hope these people are readying themselves, and finding shelter as these storms can be just as damaging as a Cat 1 or 2...and are unpredictable.

Double Blogging

In case you haven't noticed, I have TWO blogs now! So make sure you are reading both of them!

I posted some freebies over at the new blog yesterday go here to find them.

Blueberry Goodness

I am a self-proclaimed cereologist. I love cereal, and trying new flavors....THESE are awesome! I've been eating them right out of the box! If you like blueberry, you need to try these!

Hot

It has been unbearably hot out lately.
Seriously.
It's going up to 96 today, and with the humidity it will seem worse than that. You walk outside and the heat surrounds you....it's like walking into an oven. There's no relief. No breeze. Nothing.
I am so ready for fall to get here, I can't even tell you.

Lazy Sunday

Snoopy likes to get underneath the blanket, even when he's napping -


My boy is all legs....Is there a body under there?


There he is!

Comfort Food

There is nothing like a good meal to set your mind right! Today, I went up to Stepmother's house with a friend and one of my nieces, to help her do a few things at the house, and have dinner. We like going to her house to help, because the payment always comes in the form of a good meal, complete with doggie bags!

The work:
Hang wallpaper border in guest bathroom
Hang a shelf in her den (All I did was watch on this one!)

The Payment:
Swedish Meatballs
Spaetzle
Green Bean Casserole (with canned green beans just like I like it!)
Shoe Peg Corn
Greek Bread
GREEN Pie (Pistachio Pudding Pie, my family calls it GREEN Pie)

I think she over paid us!

When we were clearing the table I mentioned that I thought it was my birthday because she made all of my favorites! Soooo good!

Teens

I have been lucky enough to not have any of the kids in my life get involved with drugs or alcohol. Yes, they have done the normal things that teens do, staying out late, skipping school, etc...but overall, good kids with good friends, and that do well in school....nothing that's going to put them into Teen Rehab. I have another group of nieces and nephews slowly approaching the teen years, and they are already showing promise that they will turn out just as good as the first batch!
This is a sponsored post.

Mom Update

They have stopped my Mom's chemo for this week. She went to the Doctor early in the week as she has been having problems with her stomach being bloated and retaining fluids in there. She had to have another Cat Scan yesterday and we get the results today. Hoping that it's not more bad news, not sure if I can take it.

Football!

I am so happy that football season is here! Not only does it mean summer is ending (and if you've been reading this blog you know how trying a summer it has been for my family!).....but it means my weekends will be consumed with pre-game, actual-game, and post-game. College and NFL. Either watching them on TV, or going to games!I just love the game.
In the NFL, the Bucs are my team....but I like a lot of other teams and will watch pretty much any game that's on! As far as college ball, the Gators are my first love, but I also follow Michigan, Rutgers (I am a Jersey girl after all), and will watch any college game that's on also....I do prefer college ball over the NFL.

Elvis All Day

Today is the 30th anniversary of ELvis' death, and the radio station we listen to at work is playing ALL ELVIS - ALL DAY! I suppose I can deal with it for one day. They have been showing a lot of his old movies on TV Land the past few weeks, too. I like the early ones...there's one set in south Florida, he and his family live on the beach....I can't remember the name of it, but I love that one!

Randomness...

My posting here has been sporadic lately, and for that I apologize. It's hard to keep up with 2 blogs!
My week has been consumed with Snoopy's health issues, and I have been talking about that here . But, the weekend has promise and my life will pick up soon! Stay tuned!

Allowance

I'm a thrifty gal with thrifty ways...and I am always trying to teach my nieces and nephews about bankingthier money! Yes, I finally made it to that age, you know - the age where you are telling the kids to put thier money away for a rainy day rather than running out to spend it! I remember my elders trying to tell me the same thing, and I never listened. Wish I had...which is why I'm always dishing out the same advice to the kids in my life! Learn from my mistakes and you will go far!
This is a sponsored post.

Big Brother 8

I so enjoyed watching Evil Dick win the Veto last night and put Dustin in his place! I also enjoyed Eric being forced by America to give Jessica the silent treatment, which ticked her off and made her actually think for herself! And then you see the little light bulb go off in her head - "heeey, maybe these guys are manipulating me" - YA THINK?!!! I enjoyed watching her put Dustin on the block, and him thinking he's so safe and only the "pawn" - I will enjoy more watching him have to walk out the door! I went online and voted to make Eric HAVE to vote for Dustin! HA! Take THAT!
Oh, and P.S. Jameeka is starting to grate on my nerves....she needs to be next.

Snoopy

Read Snoopy's latest health report here.

Hey Mon!

I think everyone I know has been to Jamaica, with the exception of ME! I have been wanting to go there, it's one of the few islands I have not visited. I have friends who went and did the "all inclusive" style trip, and they really had a good time. They spent an entire week down there sailing and snorkeling, and they had all the island cuisine they could eat - all included in the price they paid! Others I know went down there as a cruise port destination, in which they stopped at one of the ports of call and got to see some of the main sites on the island, like Dunn's River Falls..I would love to climb that! Not sure which option I would like to do as my Jamaican Vacation, either one of them looks really good to me right now!
This is a sponsored post.

Freebie!

Free sample of Hamburger Helper singles here..your choice of flavors!

Free sample of A.C.T. Energy Drink here

BB8

Eric "America's Player" is starting to really grate on my nerves. I don't like him at all. I was very pleased to see that America voted to have him try and get Dustin out of the house.....Dustin is turning into a lying sack and really a sneaky backstabber....I'd love to see him go. Jessica is a fool if she lets those guys talk her into what to do. I hope Danielle gets the Veto, I really like her and then Jessica will have to put one of her own up, or Jen, the easy mark. Pretty soon the 5 will have to turn on each other....it's going to get interesting.

Rather be Shopping?

Yeah, so would I! Unfortunately, with all of the money I've been doling out on vet's, clinic's, and pills lately...there hasn't been a lot of money left for ME. And, I am in sad need of some new slacks for work, and there's a few books I want...and other things I would like to have. You all know what a thrifty girl I am, so I found yet another coupon site! I believe you should NEVER make a purchase online without finding a discount, free shipping code, or deal of some sort, and they're out there if you know where to look! Enter Rather-Be-Shopping.com, your one stop site for coupons and coupon codes for all of your shopping needs! Check it out, and see if you can find a good deal, too!
This is a sponsored post.

My Basenji thinks he's a Pit Bull

Read all about how Snoopy terrorized the emergency clinic here!

Surprise!

I have mentioned a dear friend of 18 years who is moving out of state to start a new chapter in her life. She got a promotion at work, and this is a great career move for her. It's very sad for us, her friends and family, as we are selfish and do not want her to go....but, on the bright side, a new place to visit!!
So, there was a huge surprise party for her this past Saturday, as she leaves in a few months - and a great time was had by all! The guest of honor was surprised, the food and drink were good...and we all enjoyed our time together!
For party favors, they made a mix CD of some of her favorite songs ("old school" late 80's dance mix), and printed labels for them with her picture and the title "JMC's Music to Move By" (little play on words there!).....I thought it was a neat idea, and everytime I play that CD I will think of her! So , I jokingly asked her to "autograph" mine, and before we knew it, there was a line of party guests who all wanted her to sign their copy of her CD!! It was hilarious!
It was a few months in the making, but the party planners pulled it off and did a great job!

Snoopy & More....

Most of my detailed posts about Snoopy's health are at my new blog. He seems to be doing okay, still drinking a lot and peeing a lot...but that goes with the territory. He is not cooperative about taking all the pills....and still searching for a place to get the Venous Blood Gas Panel done.

Drove to the other side of the state today to visit my Mom and Aunts...she seems tired, and looks tired. Having a lot of trouble eating certain foods....I guess that goes with the territory. She is calling her GI doctor tomorrow, he stomach is all bloated out...all the way up to her chest. We want to check with him and see what that's all about.

True Religion

I was just on the phone with a friend who went on a back to school shopping spree for himself. He's pretty hip and likes to keep up with the latest trends, I wonder if he knows about True Religion Jeans? They have a lot of the latest cuts and styles, and seem to be what the young and hip are wearing these days..of course, the company is based in Los Angeles so it's obvious why they are the current hot style - all the hot new stars are wearing them! Once they get caught on camera in a new brand, everyone will want them.
Of course, my friend probably wouldn't wear these to work, considering what they cost...but they would be great for going out to the club!
This is a sponsored post.

The Day So Far...

I spent my Saturday morning running errands, to the Vet for Snoopy's meds, to GNC for Snoopy's Amino Fuel, and to the Produce Market to pick up a few things. Came home and dispensed Snoopy's first round of pills....not very cooperative, was he. I had to smash them and bury them into balls of Velveeta. Velveeta is squishy much like Mr Fab's Sculpey, only Mr Fab doesn't bury pills in his Sculpey...at least I don't think he does....hmmmmm. Anyway, I digress....I finally got all the pills down...hoping the antibiotic kicks in soon and helps with his UTI.
Tomorrow, I am going over to see Mom and my Aunts for the day, so I whipped up some Zucchini Bread to take over..... (Thanks for the recipe, D!) of course, I made a loaf for myself as well, and it is GOOD.
This evening I have a big party to go to....it's a surprise, so I'll tell you all about it later!

Save a Lot

Have you ever been to Sav a Lot grocery store? It's a smaller store, warehouse type - everything is in the boxes on the shelves, no bags - just put your purchases into the empty boxes at the front of the store. (It's kind of like an Aldi, only we don't have Aldi down here.) They save money that way, no extra expense on bags, baggers to bag your stuff- and they say they pass that savings on to customers and you can save up to 40% shopping there. Sav A Lot is owned by Supervalu Inc, the same parent company that owns Albertson's and Jewel Osco.
I used to think it was the poor mans grocery, and made jokes because they sell things like "Bubba Cola", and "Dr Pop". They built a new one over here by my office, so I checked it out on my lunch break this week. I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised. They do carry a lot of their own brands, but we all know that most store/generic brands are made by the name brands anyway and sold uner a private label. And ,they have some name brand stuff also.
Canned veggies? 35 cents! THIRTY-FIVE CENTS PEOPLE!
Cereal? $1.29 a box! It's there own brand, with names like "Oatie O's", and "Fruitie Loos" (not exact, I made those up!) - but their cereal is made by General Mills - you've heard of them, right?
Boxed Pasta? 50 Cents!
Saltine Crackers? 83 cents!
They have a full section of frozen foods, including Totino's Crispy Crust Pizza (my favorite!) and their own line of ice cream novelties!
As I passed the snack cakes, I noticed a fine box of Choco-Rounds (their version of a Hostess Ding Dong)- Hey, $1.79 for a box of 8, I was trying them! HUGE thumbs up from the chocolate lover in me!
I think I can save a lot (no pun intented) of money shopping there, even if it's just for staples. (I'm leary of strange meat& produce depts)
If you have one nearby, don't be afraid to stop in a check it out, you may be pleasantly surprised!

Fire Ants

Living in Florida, you learn about our friend the fireant at a young age. Step near a pile and you've got bites all over your feet real quick! And, those little suckers burn, so I can only imagine how bad it feels to a young child! I think my condo complex was built on a giant colony as there are fire ant mounds everywhere...and those things can get huge, like big ant mountains! I have to be careful when walking Snoopy, being a flip flop girl on weekends...I can get caught too close to the mound and get bit...you don't feel them crawling on your toes, all of a sudden you jump because one bit you! People down here spend lots of money on chemicals and such to control them..not too good for the environment. My father used to pour straight gasoline on the mounds - it worked, but again, not too good for the environment.
This is a sponsored post.

Friday Freebies!

Just in time for back to school,or for all of us brown baggers, get your FREE California Raisin Lunchbag here

Free sample of new Chocolate Chex cereal here

I want Mail!

You all know I am walking 60 miles for Breast Cancer at the Susan G Komen 3 Day - they have released the address where you can send me mail! Yes, they have a "3 Day Post Office" at camp, and let me tell you...I got mail last year, it is very heartwarming and encouraging to find a letter at the end of a long 20-something mile day!!

Cards and Letters only please, no packages. (Darn, I was hoping for a sculpey of my blistered feet from Mr Fab!)
Mail must be postmarked no later than 2 weeks PRIOR to the event, which means get it out by Sept 21st or I'll never see it !

Address:
3-Day Camp Post Office
ATTN: Cheryl Lee - WALKER
P.O. Box 56316
Philadelphia, PA 19130-6316

Drivers Ed 101 - How NOT to cut me off.

Why do people think that because they put on their turn signal it's Okay to cut me off? Putting on your turn signal does not give you a legal right to cut me off you Jack*&^%$ !! That 3 feet of space between my car and the car in front of me is not large enough for your redneck truck to squeeze into! And do not think for a minute that just because you are in a vehicle larger than mine, that I will allow you to chicken me into anything...I'm a stubborn woman and I am not budging! Oh, yeah...what's that? Giving me the finger? That's fine...I'll just keep smiling at you and calling you a Jack%$# in the safety of my car...you have no idea what I am calling you, all you see is me smiling and waving hello, which is apparently making you angrier - have a bad night? Oh, yes, do open the door of your vehicle and hang out of it and wave your arms around and call me whatever names you are calling me, I cannot hear you as my windows are up...but, I want ALL of the drivers sitting in traffic with us to see what a fool you are! Lose our temper, did we? What's the matter? Did the car next to you who was FOLLOWING the rules of traffic not allow you to cut her off? Yeah, life sucks ya jack&%$ get over yourself. Times like this I need a train horn....blow that guy's eardrums out, and go on about my day. True Story.
This is a sponsored post.

Snoopy

You can see the details of our most recent visit to the vet at my new blog.....That's one way to get you over there!

Mike Alstott - IR

Yeah, no retirement announcement made, juat a press conference that he is placed on Injured Reserve.....same thing as far as I am concerned, he is out for the season and it's his neck again, so I don't think he'll be back. I would have thought they would want him to officially retire though, to release his salary in preparation for signing a few more guys before the season starts. We shall see. First preseason game is this Friday against the Patriots. I'm pretty excited that football season is upon us!

Thoof

If you are looking for a website that has personalized news, then thoof is the place to go. They are your user generated one stop shop for, news , videos, websites, and other assorted links...and it's all personalized for your individual taste! Like celebrity gossip? They have that. Global warming? yep, got that too! Personalized content, based on what YOU, the individual, like to read! And, if you don't like the way a story looks to you....you can propose changes to the content of indivdual articles! If you like what you read, you tell them...if you didn't like it, tell them it wasn't interesting - I love that I can tell them if I like a story or not, and even propose the changes I think should be made to it! The articles are color coded to show if they are new to you, and you have a favorites page...so you can skim over the ones you've seen and get right to the good stuff, and you can also send it to a friend! They even have a ThoofRank badge that rates a story by how interesting it is with readers, the higher the percentage, the more readers interested in that kind of story! You can even submit your own and get ThoofRanked and drive more traffic to your own website! Hmmm, boost traffic at no cost? Sounds like a win-win situation to me!

Need it.

Over at Ashwin’s blog, you will find one crazy blog owner!! You can win $2500!! To enter just copy this text and paste it in your blog!! But hurry, this competition will not last long! So get posting!
I don't know who Aswhin is, but I would love to win his $2500 prize! Sheesh...that much money could change my life for the better!! And I could use some "for the better" in my life right now!!

EDITED AUGUST 24, 2007: THIS CONTEST WAS A SHAM, AND THIS GUY IS A PIECE OF GARBAGE. I HAVE REMOVED THE LINK TO HIS FAKE CONTEST, AND UPDATED IT TO CONTEST BLOGGER, WHERE YOU CAN FIND REAL, VERIFIED BLOG CONTEST INFORMATION.

Mike Alstott to Retire?

The St Petersburg Times is reporting that Mike Alstott is going to announce his retirement. He has been absent from training camp the past 3 days. I thought he would announce it at the end of last season....but it never came. I hate to see him go, he's one of the good guys, has been an asset to the Buc's. But, when it's time, it's time..these guys take a beating and they know when their bodies are done. He's had some surgeries and isn't the heavy hitter he once was. He has ownership in some local restaurants, and a couple of young kids....so let him enjoy his family. I have followed him since his college days at Purdue, and knew a guy who's son played ball with him there, so I have an autographed photo of him on the wall in my den, from his rookie year so he's in the creamsicle orange Bucco Bruce uniform! Classic.

Space Shuttle Endeavor

The shuttle went up last night very nicely. Unfortunately, I did not get to see it, as the sky was overcast. If there is a good clear sky, or a night launch, you can see it pretty good from here......but it's even better to watch from the East coast, from my Mother's backyard! All the time I've spent over there this summer, you'd think NASA could schedule a launch while I was there!

Ding Dong

I was awakened at 5am to the doorbell ringing...?
Huh?
Wha..?
When I finally woke up enough to realize what was going on....I knew there wasn't someone at the door, as the button for the bell is on a small rectangluar plastic case, and it attached with double sided sticky tape.....which had lost it's adhesiveness (due to humidity?), and was no longer attached, I had taken it off and it was inside the house! It was just randomly ringing..? Not sure what that was all about, but I unplugged the mother unit so it would stop.

Are you a Wizetrader?

Are you a budding investor? Do you read finance magazines and like to dabble in the stock market? Have money invested in your 401k at work? If you answered " Yes" to any of these questions, then The Wizetrade Blog is where you need to be my finanical friends! This is the new blog for Wizetrade, the stock trading software and online stock charting program. You do not have to belong to Wizetrade to get access to free financial information! You know I love the free, right? You can get daily updates on what's going on behind the scenes, get insider tips on the stock market, watch videos, and catch all their latest events! Don't get caught in a bear market, educate yourself and make your money work for you!
This is a sponsored post.

Randomness

• So far this week, Snoopy has only been getting me up once each night to go out..I'm okay with that. We have random urina samples lined up in the fridge...it looks like a lab in there!
• Both of my Mom's Sisters are down for a week visiting her, which has been great for her spirits, and she's doing well with week 2 of chemo & radiation. I'm driving over on Sunday to visit all of them.
• Don't forget to read my new blog, too, I am starting to post more regularly there...so add me to your blogroll!

Big Brother 8

Interesting episode last night. Jen wins the Veto, so Evil Dick wants to make nice and align with Kail and Jen, convenient, not sure if I'd go for that or not...especially Jen, seeing as how he dumped a glass of tea on her head. And, the other side (LNC - Late Nite Crew)...Dustin, Amber, Jameka, etc....are indecisive as to which way to go....I think they may go against Evil Dick though, as he has been spewing venom and generally making people miserable the entire time. Danielle is caught in the middle since that is her Dad, he acts like an idiot and you are going to get tied into it, there's no way around it - either get him to shur up or vote him out. Eric needs to go. He's been lying and telling tales and doing "America's" bidding all over the house, I don't like the America's player angle, it messes with the game, and I'm REAL tired of him!His attempt at a mohawk looks ridiculous.....oh, and P.S. somebody tell him that the pierced nipple look just isn't working for a middle class white jewish boy! Sheesh! Cover that up!

Halloween

Halloween is my favorite holiday, always has been. There's something about autumn, pumpkins, costumes, and CANDY that just makes me happy. Now, combine all of that with a good scary movie and you've got the perfect scenario for All Hallows Eve! Yep, no more trick or treating, so what do adults do on Halloween? Get a bunch of friends over, after the kids get back and are in bed, for a good scary movie marathon! I'm not so much into the blood & gore scary movies, I like the classics...Silence of the Lambs is still a movie I can watch over and over again..Hannibal Lechter just creeps me out! When I was younger, My Bloody Valentine was one of my favorite's though....I remember watching it back in my high school years, while I was HOME ALONE one night and about scared the crap out of myself! Creepy guy running around in a mine killing the local teens.....yeah, shouldn't have watched that one alone!
So now, Rob Zombie (perfect Halloween name!) has written and directed the new release of Halloween the movie! This is the guy behind such works as House of 1000 corpses and The Devil's Rejects...yeesh, talk about scare the beejezuz out of me! He's perfect for this re-make! And he's not so much re-made the original as he has made a combination "Pre-quel and remake"....should be great for the original Halloween fans, and gather a whole new audience! Check out this clip:



Yep, definitely for grown folks! Freaky, scary stuff. How about that music at the end...the kind of creepy tune that stays with you...while you're taking the dog out...in the middle of the night.....BOO!
I never saw any of the originals, I think I may be up for this version of Halloween the movie, as long as I go in a group. A large group. And we go during the day!

Frosty Paws!

Sign your pooch up for the Frosty Paws Birthday Club and get some coupons and samples of their doggy ice cream!

Tampa Bay Lightning SOLD?!

Yes. It's true, our Hockey Team, the Tampa Bay Lightning have been sold. From the St Petersburg Time Breaking News Center:

Lightning owner Bill Davidson has sold the team and the lease to the St. Pete Times Forum to a group that includes former Panthers coach and Blue Jackets general manager Doug MacLean. It is believed the group is committed to keeping the team in Tampa.

Here is the release sent out by the team:

The Lightning will host a press conference at 11:00 a.m. in the XO VIP Club on the arena level of the St. Pete Times Forum to announce the sale of the team, the leasehold rights to the St. Pete Times Forum and adjacent properties. Thomas S. Wilson, Chairman and Governor of the Lightning, will introduce a new ownership group, Absolute Hockey Enterprises, which includes Doug MacLean, Jeff Sherrin and Oren Koules. A purchase agreement has been signed by Absolute Hockey, but the ownership transfer is subject to approval by the National Hockey League’s Board of Governors.

Palace Sports and entertainment, which is owned by Davidson, has owned the team since the summer of 1999. It bought the team because, as Davidson said at the time, he wanted the building and the adjacent land that was to be developed. The Lightning has turned its on-ice fortunes around under Davidson, winning the 2004 Stanley Cup and reaching the playoffs four straight years. But things were tougher financially.

The team claims it has lost $76-million on its Tampa operation, and after the death of two partners whose expertise was real estate, the development plans never got on track. The team always claimed it was never formally for sale, but it always said if someone backed a truck of money up to the door, it would listen

Apparently, someone backed up to the Ice Palace with a truck of money! I wish I had known that....I would have run over there and picked some of it up! They claim they have no plans to move the team, and I hope that is true, I love hockey and was there when they beat the Flames in their Stanley Cup run.....time will tell, new ownership always brings a lot of change, and I have no doubt that another truck of money will have the new owners on the interstate to a new city in a heartbeat!

Meetings

I work in a job that requires lots of meetings and conference calls. We have offices all over the globe, and the only way to get everyone together for training or meetings is conference calls. With the explosion of the internet though, there are now internet and video conferencing, you just send an email out to all employees and tell them where to log in and poof, everyone is right there! Yes, you have to invest in the software to have video conferencing, but the return on investment can be huge when dealing with a company as large as mine. They can make that money back with the savings on long distance and travel costs! We send everyone to the corporate headquarters for any kind of training, by investing in video conferencing, software, you can do all of your training at the same time, in different cities!
This is a sponsored post.

New Digs!

Yeah, I got my own domain....it's pretty cool, go over there and check it out, let me know what you think...but be sure to come back, because I am not completely moved yet, so I'll be posting on both for a while!

Free Drugs at Publix!

From the St Petersburg Times website:

Publix offers free-prescription drug program
Publix Supermarkets on Monday launched a free-prescription drug program for seven gerneric oral antibiotics. The grocery chain joins a growing number of retailers jumping into the low cost generic drug bandwagon.

Shoppers can now get up to 14 days supply for drugs such as Amoxicillin, Cephalexin and Penicillin by presenting prescriptions to a Publix pharmacist. The program allows customers to fill as many prescriptions as they want for free.

I'm not sure what the details are of this program, but if I had a prescription I would call my local Publix Pharmacy and see if I can get it filled for free!

Test Results

Snoopy's bloodwork came back, and his glucose level in the blood is normal, which means it is not diabetes. The Doctor is not confirming Fanconi Syndrome as of yet, he wants to call a specialist, and he wants me to collect a few random urine samples this week to ensure the high sugar level wasn't just a one time thing. Then we can be sure and move forward with treatment.
My whole problem with this? I now have more information on Fanconi Syndrome than he does. I spent my weekend scouring the internet for information on it and treatment options....I had to give him the website address with the treatment protocol! This makes me a bit unsure of his skills to actually treat the disease. I do not want to stand back and do nothing while Snoopy's kidneys slowly fail. I want him to have the best life possible, and from what I've read, we can control this with a high protein diet and vitamin supplements. We'll see what happens this week, the doctor I am dealing with is just covering the regular Vet's vacation, I'll give him the benefit of the doubt and time to do his research...our regular Vet will be back in a few weeks anyway.

Pool Boy

Snoopy loves to spend his Sunday by the pool!

Fashion

I am a simple girl, with simple taste...fashion plate is not one of the word's that has been used to describe me! Don't get me wrong, I like to keep up with the latest styles, but I also like to be comfortable...which means you won't find me in 4 inch heels on a daily basis - I don't know how those women do it, I'm telling you their feet are killing them! I have to dress business casual at work, and have a more conservative approach than most, and on weekends you will find me in shorts and flip flops! No one ever taught me about fashion, or accessorizing when I was a teen.....I learned from seeing what was on TV, and what other's were wearing. But sometimes, you don't know how to make a certain look work on you, know what I mean? Always looks great on the mannaquin, but when you get it home, it's just not working! Hate that. How does she get that scarf look perfect in her hair? Or know exactly what accessories are perfect with those slacks? Well, now even a fashion-challenged person such as myself can get help! We can get Fashion Advice from Belisi Fashions Jupiter, FL at their blog! Divas Dreams has everyday fashion advise for fashion civilians! That's me!
This is a sponsored post.

The Simpsons Movie

Stepmother took me to the movies this afternoon with the Nieces and Nephew, we saw The Simpsons Movie. It was very funny....and I needed a good laugh. I recommend you go and see it, and stay for the credits because there are some funny spots in there as well.

Fanconi Syndrome

We just got back from our visit to the vet, and unfortunately, it did not produce good news. Snoopy's urine tested very high for Glucose, which can be one of two things...diabetes, or Fanconi Syndrome. I pray that is is the lesser and more controllable of the two, diabetes. As soon as he said Fanconi Syndrome....I broke down, I didn't know what it was, and I'm not even sure if I heard everything he said....I had to come home and Google it.
I am so tired of Doctor's offices bringing me bad news. Hope is all I have left.
Fanconi Syndrome is common in Basenjis, and basically it means his kidneys are not absorbing the nutrients and it's all coming out in his urine. Symptoms are excessive drinking, excessive urination, and glucose in the urine - which he has all three. It is treatable, and organ damage is reduced, if it is found early enough.
Fanconi Syndrome is commonly misdiagnosed as diabetes, as if your vet is not up on his Basenji reading, they won't know to test for it. My Vet has taken care of Snoopy since he was a pup, and has learned a lot about Basenji's through treating him.
They took blood to send out for testing, and we should have the results Monday...until then, I wait, and I worry, and I pray. Now, go hug your dog.

Contest!

I almost forgot, this months Colleenie Weenie contest is posted over at my Sister's blog, she's giving away two more great prizes! Where does she get all this cool stuff? Next time I go to her house I'm going to have to do some sneaking around! LOL!
Oh, and she's upped the ante this month as far as the number of entries you can turn in! Run over there and read all about it and get yourself entered for some nice prizes!

The Paper Porch

There's a store up in Brooksville that carries Vera Bradley, in fact, they are the only authorized Vera Bradley retailer in Brooksville! It's called The Paper Porch, and it's one of those old houses turned into a quaint little shop..I love those stores, you can find really cute and unique gift items! I have a Vera, it's a nice bag, however, I have not gotten Vera Bradley fever, which apparently causes you to want to buy the new styles each season...! I only own the one bag because I thought it was cute. That's not to say I'm not going to ever buy more....some of them are darn cute! My Sister and her family, and my Stepmother all live up in Brooksville...we may have to take a ride downtown and do a little "browsing".

Home Theatre

It's no secret that my dream is to own an HDTV....I have been drooling over them for a few years now, just not the right time in my life to spend the money. But, soon Grasshopper, very soon. And then, I will need to do an entire redec on my home theater area and get a nice entertainment center to put it on. I can't have my sleek new HDTV sitting on some Early American Goodwill entertainment center now, can I? ...this one I found at Gallery Furniture is pretty modern looking:

Not sure if that will fit in my condo, but that's the style I want, just not as big. Something sleek and modern looking...simple, yet elegant. They have a lot of others to choose from, and are located in Houston. I thought North Carolia was the furniture captiol of the US, but it seems that Houston Furniture is catching up! They have everything from dining room sets, to home office, and even mattresses! That will showcase my large screen HDTV, not too large...37" is fine, I am not greedy! With football season rapidly approaching, I get the urge to go out and look at them....the game sure looks good in HD!

Friday Freebies!!

Free sample of Nabisco Garden Harvest Toasted Chips here

Here Kitty, Kitty, Kitty....coupon for a free can of Petite Cuisine cat food here

Forget what day it is? Can't keep track of all your important dates? Disorganized? Start the new year off right! Order your free 2008 Women's Health Calendar here

This one is not free, but their cereal is so cheap that it will be almost free! $1 coupon towards your purchase of Malt O Meal cereals here. I love the "Mini Spooners" , they taste just like the name brand at half the price!

Local Family Friendly Frugal Outings!

Our local minor league affiliate for the Philadelphia Phillies is the Clearwater Threshers. These local minor league games are a nice cheap summer outing for the family. Tickets for the Threshers are as low as $3 for grass seating, they have regular "giveaway" nights and ticket specials...Brighthouse Networks field is only a few years old and is a very nice outdoor stadium.

Tomorrow night, August 4th, is Bark at the Ballpark at Brighthouse Networks Field. Take your dog to the ball game..there will be free doggie ice cream sandwiches at the Pedigree table! There will be pet vendors and contests! A portion of the proceeds will go to the Humane Society.

Next Friday, August 10th is the 2nd annual Pitch for Pink Breast Cancer Awreness Night, the first 2500 ladies in attendance will get a Pink Threshers Cap or Beachbag, the players will wear pink jerseys. A portion of the game proceeds will go to Morton Plant Mease Foundation.

Week One

We are almost done with week one of Chemotherapy & Radiation. I spoke to Sister last night, and Mom seems to be doing fine with the Chemo, but the Radiation is taking it's toll...causing much nausea, and it was an almost immediate reaction, not two hours after they returned home she started gewtting sick. Oh, and she lost 4 lbs...so we were all happy last week that she had gained, and it went away. We are trying smoothies and homemade egg nog in the blender to add calories to her diet.

Monsoon

I awoke to a massive monsoon this morning....the entire neighborhood is flooded is was coming down so fast. Snoopy and I tried the "go outside with the umbrella", so he could tend to his personal business....he was not down with the plan. When I went to my car to go to work, I had to walk on the grass as the sidewalk was underwater....yeah, that worked out real well...I stepped in and went in to my ankles in the grass as well! My shoes are wet, and my pants are soaked about 3 inches up from the bottom. Fabulous.

Go Green and get some FREE !!!

I have posted over the past month how I have started recycling in my household, gone from "Paper or Plastic" to NEITHER by using canvas shopping bags, and taken various other measures to "go green". Now it's your turn! Did you know that planting just ONE tree will absord about 13 lbs of carbon dioxide per year? The National Arbor Day Foundation is giving away FREE trees! Well, not completely free, you have to become a member at $10...but that's a small price to pay for 10 trees! And, you can choose from flowering or oaks! Check out the details of this offer here.

Get a free sample of Clean & Clear Morning Burst Shine Control Facial Cleanser here.

Free Listerine Whitening Strips here.

Superbad!

Superbad is coming to theatres August 17th, and it looks like it will be hilarious! It stars Jonah Hill and Micheal Cera. Jonah was the RA on Campus Ladies, one of my favorite shows, and he stole quite a few episodes with is acting style and dry humor! And, Micheal Cera played Jason Bateman's son on Arrested Development..another great comedy. Two great comedic actors, playing high school guys that don't quite fit in, yeah...looks like a recipe for a hilarious movie! So, I already know the stars are good, I have to see this one in the theatre! This is not your typical high school movie...it's going to be a classic! You can check out a few clips here.
Now, here's what I want you to do: There will be 5 exclusive videos of the movie shown on you tube TODAY only....so run over there and watch them before everyone else does!
You can also download ringtones, wallpaper, and buddy icons from the movie..find out if you are Superbad!
Will Superbad become the newest cool thing to say...? Back in my day we said bad a lot, and it meant good. I guess Superbad would mean really really good! We'll have to wait and see if that catches on as quickly as the movie does! Don't forget to run over to You Tube and check out those video clips, they are up TODAY ONLY...so this is your only chance to check it out before the movie hits the theatres!