A Prairie View

Car insurance

Having a teen driver in the family has really made us look at car insurance differently. For some reason, insurance companies seem to think insurance should be higher if you have a teen driver … a boy, no less. I just can’t imagine why. (not. Ask me about the little fender bender my 15 year old had last month. I KNOW why insurance HAS to be higher for these “less experienced”, “I’m invincible” thinking generation of kids. ASDA is a financial service that can help you with Car Insurance quotes as well as a variety of other services. Visit their website to find comprehensive car lnsurance for all drivers who are aged 21 or over only, as well as coverage for those under 21. ASDA can help you save time and the hassle of shopping around for all your financial needs.

I Love Flowers

I love flowers. I love giving. And I love receiving. Even my “computer name” is a flower … Prairie “rose”. I love the way they look. They way they smell. The way they can brighten someone’s day. And convey the message that someone is thinking of you, and loves you. I. Love. Flowers.

Dot Flowers is a place that loves flowers as well. Take time to browse through their beautiful website for your valentines day gifts. They cater to all occasions and sentiments, but I’m sure Valentine’s day is one of their more busier days. “I’m sorry, honey. I didn’t have time to run to the flower shop”. Being able to order flowers online is a great way for those all-too-busy husbands to stay out of the doghouse. Just a quick browse through, an easy to navigate website, and a major credit card, and its done. Flowers ordered. Wife or sweetheart basking in the love you have shown them with a beautiful Valentine bouquet from Dot Flowers. Couldn’t be simplier!

Pup E. Luv

For all those dog owners out there, there is a great new product that your dog will be begging you to buy. Pup E. Luv Smart Treats are a great tasting new snack for your dog, and are pet treats that are affordable. There is no sense in going into debt trying to show your dog how much you love him. Pup E Luv knows that your dog is special to you, and that you want to reward him for all the happiness and unconditional love they give you. They have a variety of different treats … such as Taste E Tenderloins, Jerk E Slabs, Shake E Bacon, Chick E Breast, just to name a few.

Show the Pup E Luv company just how much you love your day. Enter your pooch into their Pup E. Contest by filling out the form at their website, and attach a picture of your pooch enjoying some of his favorite Pup E. Luv snacks. To show their appreciation, they will send your dog some of their new treats just for saying CHEESE! They will email you for further information when they recieve the picture.

Just like you, they only want the best for your dog, so only the best has gone into their treats. Visit their website today and order some today. Your dog will love your forever (as if he doesn’t all ready!).

Medford Real Estate

Buying a house is always a major decision, whether you are relocating just across town, or across the country. Finding the “right” real estate agent makes all the difference in the world. If you live in Oregon … in the Jackson County communities of Medford, Central Point, Ashland, Phoenix, Rogue River, Talent, Jacksonville, Eagle Point and Gold Hill, then taking a look at Medford Real Estate is a website that you should browse through. They offer you direct access to the latest properties for sale in your area, with community information, consumer links, school information, free reports and much much more. Whether you are buying or selling a house, Cynthia Naumes with Medford Real Estate is there to answer your questions, and to help you make an informed decision.

2006 Wrap Up

What did you want and not get?

A laptop. When I started getting paid to blog, my goal was to buy a laptop. And, money wise earned, I have recieved more than enough to buy one. But, with Christmas and a few other expenses along the way, I have had to pull money out of that account and its gone other places. Which isn’t a totally bad thing. It felt good to be able to help, to contribute, and David’s attitude where money and I am concerned, has changed a little. He does appreciate the help, and the resource; and I am just happy to be able to do it. We will get it one of these days; but in the meantime, I will continue to either save, or put it where its needed the most.

2006 Wrap Up

What did you want and get?

A new (to us) vehicle. Our minivan was pretty much on its last leg. We took it to the Ford garage, and even they couldn’t fix it. We got it back running worse than when we took it in. So, I definately wanted a new/different vehicle. Which, we finally did get. A dark blue (almost purple in the right light) Ford Explorer. At first, after getting it, I wasn’t sure about my decision. I had a hard time getting in and out of it. But as I have lost weight, that process has become considerable easier. With all the snow and ice we’ve had, I have appreciated the 4 wheel drive, and the ease of putting it into 4 wheel drive. The back seats fold down flush with the floor, and I like that as well. It has come in handy on several occasions.

Legal Eagles

This firm reminds me of a popular TV show that aired a few years ago. At Simmons Jannace & Stagg, they often think “outside the box”. They are equally skilled at representation for small companies as they are municipalities and individuals. By listening to the needs of their clients, they are able to resolve conflicts in nontraditional ways. Located in New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, they have represented companies such as Home Depot, Bank of American, and Best Buy, just to name a few. Their attorneys are encouraged to go into each case with a fresh perspective and to look for ways to resolve conflicts in the most cost-effecient and effective way. They have tried many cases, and have been successful emplementing alternative ways to resolve disputes and negotiations on behalf of their clients.

2006 Wrap Up

What do you wish you’d done more of?
Spent more time with friends and family. I know part of it was due to just scheduling and making the time to get together, but I have several friends I wish I had visited more. One lives here and town, and the other lives a couple hours away. But I spent the better part of the year, like I have done for quite awhile now — I just wanted to hide away. Not be a part of anyone’s life. The months, the years are flying by now, and we can’t get those moments back. I need to take a step forward and be more outgoing, even around those I love and know very well. I still seem to hold back; and that is not a good thing to do.

The Juice

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You have berries. And seeds. But what better way to benefit from healthy GoJi berries than in juice form? Traditionally, Goji Juice is used to improve general metabolism, strengthen the immune system, and boost the immune system. But it also helps regulate blood pressure, promotes health joints, and supports the digestive system.

Authentic Tibetan Himalayas Goji Berries is one website that the berry and juice can be purchased online. They are grown in Northern Asia in the Tibetan and Mongolian Himalaya, and are organically grown, chemical and contaminant-free, and have been dried naturally in semi-shade, not touched by hand, but instead collected by shaking the vines. The juice is made from whole ripen Goji Berry Juice, not from concentrate or powder. Each bottle contains more actual Goji Juice than any other brand you might see Nearly 49% more! The other brands are made with either a Goji Concentrate/Puree which is reconstituted with water or Goji Powder.

Goji Berries and juice are now being looked at to help fight obesity, cancer, sexual vitality, and even as an anti-aging product. With all the emphasis on healthy foods, and healthier living, Goji berries are definately a product worth considering adding to your daily diet.

Flower Shopping

We live in a small rural town, with one flower shop, and I have just never thought of any other option when sending flowers. Just call the local shop and order what I need. And, for around town, that is probably still the logical choice. But, we just had a family member die a few weeks ago — and the family lives out of town. Out of state, as a matter of fact. Flower Shop.com would have been a good alternative to sending Funeral flowers. You can see in beautiful pictures just what you are ordering, with same day delivery,tax free shopping, and 100% satisfaction guaranteed or they will replace your order.

2006 Wrap Up

What do you wish you’d done more of?

I knew this would be the end result. I knew I was making conscious choices not to do what needed to be done, that I would run out of time. But. I wish I had spent more time with Aunt Jo. I wish I had been less selfish with my time, and given of myself more. Yes, I did give a portion of myself. That was required. But we both knew, that there was so much more that I could have given, should have given, and I didn’t. And now I can’t. What bothers me about it is that I made the conscious choice NOT to spend more time with her. With my mom, I didn’t KNOW my time with her was limited. And I did spend alot of time with her. But with my Aunt Jo, I knew time was limited. Even that last day. And yet, I chose to go home. And I wasn’t there, when she drew her last breath.

2006 Wrap Up

Compared to this time last year are you:
a. happierr or sadder? -
b. thinner or fatter? -
c. richer or poorer? -

I am happier. I have turned my life around in several respects, and that makes me happy. I have spent a life time of wallowing in plans, but not taking the first step of “follow through”. 2006 saw me take several steps in the right direction. A weight loss program that is still in progress. Our financial situation is much better. I no longer feel the need to hide things; and have found an avenue to bring money to something I enjoy doing, which is blogging. Being able to contribute “above and beyond” just the weekly paycheck is a nice feeling. And that. makes me happy.

I definately thinner now that I was this time last year.

And I’m richer. In more ways than one.

Gourmet Gift Baskets

I wonder if it would be too obvious if I would drop some subtle hints about Valentines Day Gift Baskets to my husband. He wouldn’t even have to leave his office, and he works on the computer all day. So, how much easier could it be? Gourmet Gift Baskets.com has a great variety of baskets and gifts that would please any woman on Valentine’s Day. They have a Bath & Body gift basket that I would just love. Their baskets are always in perfect taste, and they have baskets for all occasions. But I don’t want to push the issue. Valentine’s Day. A gourmet basket from Gourmet Gift Baskets.com would put a smile on my face!

2006 Wrap Up

Did you suffer illness or injury?

No injuries (unlike January of 2000…broken arm from falling on ice); and no (new) illness …just on-going worries with the heart being in and out of rhythm. After starting the weight loss program, I have had a few EKG’s, and numerous lab work work-ups… all which have improved over time. Not that my cholestrol or blood pressure and other things were way out of line, but there was defiantely room for improvement. And there has been definate improvement. Didn’t have many colds, and no flu that I can think of. For the most part, my health issues have been the heart; and I think that will be a lifetime concern.

2006 Wrap Up

What was your biggest achievement of the year?

I hate to keep beating a dead horse here, but the biggest achievement of the 2006 is losing 50 pounds. For making the final decision that there had to be “more to life than this”, and doing something about it. I was tired of the way I felt, the way I looked, the things I had to deal with because of what I weighed. I had 2 choices. To continue along the same path, being miserable and unhappy. Or. Making the conscious decision to do something about it, and follow through. Its the follow through that always seems to trip me up. But, for once, I am actually STILL following through, some 4 months later, and feeling better for it. And in my eyes, that is a major achievement.

Family Vacation

With snow on the ground, ice underneath of it from the weekend before, and it sounds like maybe more snow to come, a vacation away, to someplace warm is sounding better and better. Vacations.net is the leader in internet travel service, and they have launched a newly redesigned website with a customized booking engine and other functions that set is apart from other internet travel services.

I am so ready to head off to an all inclusive family resort , where they cater to families and offer activities for any age group, which for us would have to include teen-specific activities. But these resorts also have a nanny service for little ones, a kids’ club, fantastic pools, and a price tag that makes it easy to have a vacation of a lifetime.

2006 Wrap Up

What date from 2006 will remain etched in your memory and why?

There are several actually. Of course there is the obvious one — November 27. The day little Alex was born….making Grandchild #5. But, unlike the majority of the other grandchildren (with the exception of one — Malachi), we got to be there for his arrival, seeing him just minutes after being born. That is a memory that won’t go away for awhile.

Another date that is etched in my memory is September 7. That is the day I took the first step to becoming a “better me”. Now, 67 lbs later (and lighter!), I can honestly say it was the first day of a very long journey. One that will be with me the rest of the my life. One that I am still on, and still have a long ways to travel. But, there are many milestones yet to hit. The 75 lb mark. The 100 lb. mark. A 6 month anniversary of staying dedicated to the cause. A year anniversary of staying in line and focused on what will be a changing moment in my life. September 7, in some ways, could be considered a re-birth, in the physical sense. The day I took charge of my life and started making a difference in what I could be.

Boston Condos

Condo Company specializes in selling condos over the internet. The site is visited by thousands of unique visitors each day, looking to buy or sell condos. What better place to relocate than in Boston. The city of freedom, rich with heritage, playing a vital part during the pre-revolutionary era, the Civil War …. this city has taken a step back as other cities push for expansion at any cost. Boston is the nation’s 7th largest metropolitan area, and yet is graced with areas and neighborhoods that retain the same orginality that existed many years ago.

Condo Company utilizes various types of people such as Realtors, Owners, and Developers to list Boston Condos that are for sale. The contact information of the listing agent or owner of condos that are listed with them, and this bypasses any middlemen, thus saving you a bundle of money.

2006 Wrap Up

What would you like to have in 2007 that you lacked in 2006?

Oganization, energy, get right to the matter of things, instead of flitting all over the board doing everything but what I’m supposed to be doing. Granted, most things got done, in the end, but I definately took the long way around. Maybe more self respect, determination — they were definately things that lacked in 2006. Being more focused in some other areas of my life that are sorely lacking. I am tunnel-visioned on a few things; but there are definately a few others that are lacking and need my attention.

2006 Wrap Up

Did anyone close to you die?

Yes, my aunt. The aunt that came into my life a few years ago, sharing her life with me and my mom. And then my mom died suddenly, and I was thrust into a world of caregiver. Not on a full time basis — she was very independent and very determined. But she also had major health issues, and whether we were dealing with high blood sugar levels, or her not being able to breath, or low blood sugars … her heart…her kidneys, it was very much the roller coaster ride. But I loved her, and even though we had “our moments”, she became very close to me, and when she died this fall, the pain wasn’t any less. She is missed on a daily basis. But. Life goes on. Somehow. It goes on.

For Someone Special

Flowers are always a special way to let someone you care about know that you are thinking about them, whether it be just a normal everyday, run of the mill kind of day. Or maybe an anniversary or birthday. A celebration of a promotion. Flowers are the universal way to say “You are being thought of”, and as there are hundreds of reasons to give flowers, there are hundreds of different ways to give flowers. Beyond Blossoms is a very pretty, easy to navigate website that specializes in flower and flower arrangments, and gift baskets. They buy direct from the farm to ensure you the freshest flowers at the best price.

2006 Wrap Up

Did anyone close to you give birth?

Yes, my step-daughter, Becky. She had a cute little baby boy the day after my birthday, on November 27. Strawberry blonde hair, cute as a button. Very good natured. She named him Alexander David; and we (David, Ethan and I) was well as the rest of her family (her sister, her mom, brother, niece and nephews) — were all there for the blessed event. She had him C-Section, but a planned one. We got lots of pictures, and it was just one of those moments memories are made of.

What’s Beautiful To You?

I know beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and that we should all show our beauty from the inside out. But today’s society holds high regard to how we look, and so to take some fashion cues, we might as well get them from the best. In his new blog, Being Belisi, he gives us, the busy woman on-the-go, and the jet-setting guys, a cheat sheet to what is in and what’s not. Belisi is a luxury designer of high-end silk ties, scarves and women’s handbags. He stands for beauty, great style, quality accessories and giving back to the community.

His blog covers many different categories …. buzz in the fashion world, being creative, Belisi Ties, celebrities, music, charity, design, hot handbags, how it all started … to just name a few. He has just launched a new campaign “What’s Beautiful To You?”. He is asking just that one simple question — “What’s Beautiful To You?” …. and is now accepting comments, essays, poems, and other musings that says to you what is beautiful. Entrants with the most compelling submissions will receive a $100 Belisi.com Gift Card. If fashion is your middle name, then this is definately the blog for you.

Thursday 13

13 Things About Carolyn

1. It’s been awhile since I’ve done a Thursday 13 list.

2. But decided it was time to get back in the action.

3. Still working at the church in the mornings.

4. And the trucking company in the afternoons.

5. Except this week. I’ve been home the last 2 days with bronchitis and strep throat.

6. I became a grandma again in November.

7. A little boy — Alexander David.

8. Ethan is staying super busy, with drama and church and scouts.

9. The 1-act play they took to the State Thespian Conference last weekend qualified for Internationals.

10. I’ve lost 67 lbs since the last Thursday 13 I did.

11. And my aunt passed away in October.

12. Lots of things have gone on since I last did a Thursday.

13. But I plan on doing at least 13 more!

Custom Made Doors

We are in the process of building a new church building. Actually, we are very close to be done, and hopefully start the “moving in” process in the new few weeks. There are a few key elements when you are building a new building, whether it be a house, an office building, or a church. One of them is the doors. Doors are used many times over, through out the day, and they must be durable and able to hold up to many years of use. But, you also need them to look good, to blend in with the rest of the decor of the room. Modernus offers modern interior doors at factory direct prices.

one of the products they specialize in is Modernus sliding doors. Custom Made Modern.. We had a sliding door installed in our house a few years back. Just a standard, plain looking sliding door. How I wish we had known about Modernus siding doors. All of their doors are custom made to within 1/16″ to the client’s specifications. The doors are manufactured in Italy and shipped directly. They are dedicated to selling custom high end products. and have a team of fully trained sales people and technicians to ensure an unparalleled level of service.

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