Negatively Speaking

NEGATIVE! FUCK YEAH BABY!

You know, normally I cannot stand negativity. However, when you are in agony waiting for a Dr. to call you with results about a biopsy, NEGATIVE is suddenly your best friend.

Today, is a good fucking day!

Torture, that is what the weekend was, and I was feeling rather run down Sunday, so much so that friends noticed. (I hated that I couldn't hide my worry.) Monday, I tried my best to stay focused on all things other than this, but it began to seep in, but by Tuesday (Today) I couldn't wait any longer.

I told more than a few people that I would wait until the afternoon, if they have not called and call them at noon. But I couldn't. I failed at the patience game! I am glad that I did too. Because had I not, I would have been thinking the worse all the way through lunch! NOTE: To anyone out there, sometimes it is best just to call your doctor and hassle the shit out of them! I guess when things are good, they do not bother with a call, or at least they do not rush to call. "They should!" You cannot tell someone something, send them home with a fuck ton of worries, get your answer and say nothing! There are freaking people out there like me! Who obsess to the point they are physically ill!

Anyway - I do have to take an antibiotic, but the test for whether that small lump they found was cancer came back negative! I AM IN THE CLEAR! However, I still with my whole heart urge you ladies out there to stay on top of checking yourself. I am lucky. Lucky as hell , but there are tons out there who are not. Please check yourselves regularly. Maybe even get tested to see if you are at a higher risk  Info about how - here!


So great news for a start to the day! That is a plus. We are also on DAY 2 of 4. Summer is edging closer. SO CLOSE! Which my excitement is beginning to take completely over the dread portion.

Thanks to my girl SHANDEE! (I love you girl) We have our first short flick of the summer to film. She planted a seed in my head, and now we have a full grown plant to nourish! Excited about that.

This morning, as in early this morning before the call to the doctors - I had a bitter sweet moment. I have been fighting my middle child Erin on whether or not it was okay to shave her legs at 11.
SIGH ..............................
Needless to say, she did win. I just didn't want her to yet, I know that she will regret this choice. Hell, I am 33 years old and I regret ever starting to shave my legs. Because now I am stuck with this forever! It's endless! UGH! But when she said that some kids were saying she looked like a yetti, I simply caved!
I do remember, I am not so old that I cannot recall wanting to shave my legs at a young age. I think I just wanted to hold onto her childhood a little longer. My babies are growing up too fast and I am having a hard time dealing with that.

Today is Avery's awards in class ... that kid is a mess. LOL. Legit, she is like ...
"Okay mom, it is at one! Specifically at one! You may not be late. So leave the house at 12:00, that way you will be there at one!"
(It's five minutes away mind you. - So I say)
"Okay, so I will leave at 1 and be there by 1:15"
SHE SCREAMS NOW
"Nooooooo!!!!! LISTEN!!!!! Leave before ONE! Get there early, If you miss me getting my award I will be upset. DO NOT BE LATE"
"So I should be there at two?"
"ARE YOU NOT LISTENING??????? MOM, NO! ONE! YOU MUST BE THERE AT ONE!"

LMFAO! Sometimes, I take too much joy into messing with that kid! At least I know she will smile when I roll in before one!

Today Britt has more exams, you know, I envy that kid. Here she is in high school, they are throwing things at her left and right, its hard ass work, She flourishes through it all. She continuously impresses me with her motivation! With her constant effort. She is way more responsible than I ever was at that age.  I am so completely proud of that girl.
Hate thinking that I only have three years with her left, before she heads off to college.
Maybe I will get lucky and she will go to college close by so that I can still see her.

There is a note for you moms to be out there who ask "What's the hardest part of being a parent?"
It's not the terrible two's , its not the fit throwing, bad behavior or fighting with siblings. It's letting go. It's hard as hell to step back and let them forge their own way! That is the hardest part!

Well, if I am going to be ready by one, than I suppose I better get ready now so that I am not late. I will get preoccupied with a thousand things, and before I know it, I will be late. I do not want to let that kid down today. I will never hear the end of it.

Have a great day everyone! xxDee

DAY 1 of 4

Four, not my favorite number of  numeric existence. But it's a nice solid number none the less. FOUR. That is how many days I have left of peace and quiet. Although I somewhat feel screwed on that whole peace part. My mind is anything but peaceful at the moment.

Four days until summer break! I am torn between "Dread and excitement."

EXCITEMENT: I'll have my three monsters home every single day! (Or) Home on days, they haven't decided to do something with their friends. Summer in the world of us Chattaway's - means - Creativity, and I thrive on that. I am never more satisfied in life, than in moments we find ourselves smothered in intense creativity. Be it - us, making short fun, and sometimes creepy flicks together. Making crafts, or building a sheet fort in the living room to tell each other scary stories. I love the thickness of the imaginations that dwell in my home. It is never dull around here. That is for sure.

DREAD: My girls seem to be at that age, where, every little thing that each of them do, annoys the other. There is constant bickering. I dream summer, because I haven't quite figured out how to nip that in the bud.

Either way - excitement far out weighs the dread - Just four more days!

Today has been pretty productive. If you can see in that picture up there (20,631) That is how many words I have completed in a story that I have been working hard on. "Secrets within." So far (under my own name - not counting my pen name) I have only ever published "Short stories." This will be my very first - novel. I am really excited about that!
Alongside the writing, the house is in pretty okay shape, and I have edited 30 pictures.

All in all - I think it's been a pretty good day. Not bad for a Monday at all, and not bad for 10:15 on a Monday morning.
Busy! and I like busy. It keeps my mind from straying to places I would rather it not.

Right about now, I am thinking either, a movie or book, and some snacks. At first I was sure that I was being haunted by an angry monster, but realized - it's just my pissed off belly!

Anyone out there seen any good movies lately? Read any good books?  I am always looking for   suggestions.

You know - as I sit here writing this blow, listening to "Heart - These dreams." I realize, that I really cannot wait till these four days are over. It is so boring being home by yourself. I am a boring ass person!
Before I go off into some negative rant about myself, I think I will grab this spoon I am singing into, and dip it in some "Goober" Find a movie, some real food and try to pass the next few hours quickly. Thank goodness, school only lasts until 3!

Have a great day guys. xxDee

Grill Gloves Review.

I am supposed to give you guys a product review of some grill gloves. Unfortunately, I never received them, and I had no luck getting a response from the company.

AND BECAUSE "Tomoson" has a specific amount of time that each review is due otherwise you get penalized. I am simply setting this as a pre-review. I will review these gloves when I receive them.

Survival Bracelet Review.

Hey guys - I'm back with another product review.

This time we are talking about a nifty little survival bracelet.

Handy dandy for any boy/girl scout or camper. (Or) Really anyone who might find themselves in a bind.

I got this baby free to try, in return for my review.

It's not a bad looking bracelet. Looks a lot like the bracelets that the kids are making and wearing around these days. It comes equipped with a built in whistle! (It is pretty loud.) If you ever find yourself trapped in a hole, or lost - or even god for bid (being raped - they have rape whistles too.) This little baby might just save your life.

Taking the bracelet apart - I got about two strips of 10- 12 inches para cord and one small strip of like 5-6 inches.

For anyone who doesn't know about para cord - it is pretty much a key staple in the backpacks of any out Dorsey folks. Could come in handy if you need to.

A, Secure a tent.
B. Secure a splint or tourniquet.
C. Make an emergency belt, or even re-pair a bra strap.
D, Tie "Captured." bad guys to a chair
E. or a leash for a found dog.
F. Tie stuff down so it doesn't blow away.
G.There really are so many things you can do with this type of cord. However, roping up your bad guy might be a little harder than easy. It took a good 8 minutes just to unravel the rope. Forget about trying to put it back into bracelet form. I couldn't figure that out. But you can still keep the pieces tucked inside your sack for future use.

Might be a good idea to have 2 or three of these bracelets.
All in all - this isn't a bad thing to have on hand, in case you find yourself in any sticky situations.

You can get your own HERE

Play with your boobs!

Thirty-three, that is how old I am. That is an age timezone before the recommended mammogram age.  This is also the age where they found two small lumps in my left breast that I now am being monitored for. Right now, it's the waiting stage. It's the biopsy, hurry up, and say yes or no stage. The I am terrified, and anxious and I am sure that everything is going to be alright, because it just has to stage.

Yes, you are looking at the inside of my boob there. I apologize about that, but its the only way I could get across the severity of what I want to get across. It can happen, it does happen, and it can happen to you!

LADIES... all you ladies out there young and older. Please, play with your boobs! You know how they tell the boys to play with their balls, well I am asking you to play with your boobs. Daily- hell three times a day as long as you get to know them. Every ridge, angle, every inch of them.

You never know when something might pop up and the more you play with them, the better chance you have of catching a growth before it is too late. They say early detection is key!

I was told about a new test called "BRCA Analysis" It checks for the BRAC1 and BRAC2 genes. These are the genes that are responsible for a vast majority of hereditary "Breast and Ovarian cancers." Know your family history - If anyone in your family has had breast cancer or ovarian cancer or any kind of cancer really- this test could help you be proactive"

This test will not tell you if you have cancer today, only if you are at risk, and to give your Dr. the best screening route to more effectively handle your case with preventive drug or surgery therapy,

If you test positive, it is no longer a case of "Am I going to get cancer, but more so, when." If you test positive you also have a 50% chance that you passed it down to your children (or future children.) In my own opinion, I feel like it is better to know ahead of time. It could save you, it could save your daughter('s)

This test is not performed by all doctors, at least not where I am (You might have to call around.). I feel like, if more than a few of us "Ask" our doctors about it, it might become more available to those later on down the road. You can find out more about it HERE

If you do not plan on having the test done, I with my whole heart urge you to play with your breast, mammograms are not typical for younger ladies, But as you can clearly see - Things pop up regardless of age. Stay on top of it - this is your health!

I did it! Crossing that off my bucket list!

Finally! I completed something I have been wanting to do for as long as I can remember knowing they existed. I ran my first ever 5k. The color run!
Yes! I paid 50 bucks to run three miles and have random people at random stations throw powdered color all over me - and you know what? It was a blast!

I was up at 5am, why? Freak if I know. I was excited and my body wouldn't let me sleep. I didn't bother with a shower, I figured I would take one when I got home. However, I did wash my face and place a temp tattoo smack dab in the middle of my cheek "The color run." is what it said. I hopped into my yoga Capri's and my official color run gear. (T-shirt and head band) and waited. 7am I was all but jumping on the bed to get Nick out of bed and ready. We were going to be late to stand around and wait. "I am laughing at myself now."

Now I should mention, that I kind of forced Nick to do this with me. He was not thrilled in the slightest, but he did it, "For me!" The benefits of having a best friend who loves you to bits. So when I get into my excitement, I would also like you to picture Nick rolling his eyes ever so often and looking at me like I have a dick growing out of my forehead. Literally that is what I envisioned him thinking. "What is wrong with her? Is she really this excited to walk/run/jog in a circle?"

LMFAO!

The drive there seemed longer than it should have been, but every now and then a car would pull up, people inside dawning their color run gear and I would smile. ESPECIALLY when one car rolled up. Two guys and a girl - honking, waving, pointing at their color vibe memorabilia - pointing at mine giving a thumbs up, and dancing while waving on their way. "ALREADY" The excitement had me reeling. I loved the energy of the people.
So here I am - sitting in a silent car, laughing and pointing and waving to people I do not know, looking what I assume looked like a mental patient who escaped and finally sees people for the first time. Poor  Nick. The idea that he really is in a car with some wacked out, overly excited female must of been a WTF did I get myself into moment of realization.

We met up with my sister Jen. Now when I say my sister, I mean Nick's sister. I keep her held hostage though marriage and claim her as mine! Also met up with her daughter Hailey, and a bunch of ladies from her place of employment. "That was not the original plan. - but it worked out." Originally it was just going to be Nick and I.  Either way, it was fun seeing them all in there tutu's and tiaras.

NOTE: For anyone who wants to do a color run or probably any 5k. They go in waves of people, if you want to get there and get it done ... then you are best off walking straight to the start up space to wait. "We" however waited near where they were doing the zumba warm up and conga line. "Jump in the line, rock your body in time ...OKAY I BELIEVE YOU" That song still sings its tune in my head.
The place was packed ... and I loved it! There were unicorns, men dressed up in bikinis, I think I saw iron man too. It was alive and I was loving living in the moment. I was feeding off the energy.

We finally got to our wave,  there were beach balls bouncing around through the crowd. Freebies being thrown to the loudest screamers, bubble machines, I LOVED the bubble machines, I would have stayed dancing in those bubbles all day. I think I really need a bubble machine!
There wasn't really room to run - not without running into someone or tripping over a kid, it was more of a walk/light jog type of 5k. There were so many people!
At one portion you were side by side, passing the people in the wave before you, high five'ing the whole way down to the first color station - which was yellow.
I do not typically like to touch people, but for some reason, I was into high five'ing everyone that held their hand out. I felt rude not to slap their hand. Like they were left hanging or something. I was just enjoying the looks on their faces, of WE ARE DOING IT!  which is funny when you think of it, because I do this every day. I do not typically get color thrown on me, but I walk three miles, sometimes more EVERY SINGLE DAY. But this day, it was different.

Too bad there are not people lining my street on my morning walks, to high five me and say ... way to go!  I bet that would make, walking my dog Marley, so much more fun.

Either way - we made it through. I felt bad at the last station because it was glitter. I had no idea they were going to throw glitter. NICK HATES GLITTER!!! That stuff gets everywhere and it is hard to get rid of! Sigh .... but he did it for me. "Thanks Nick!"

We got ourselves a medal, and a bag of glitter and color - For the dance after party where everyone throws their glitter up and it gets everywhere.

All in all- once we got started, it was over pretty quickly. It was the waiting that took the longest.
It was such a good time. Who knew you could have such a fun time, just walking.

Oh - and I got naked in the parking lot of "The dog house bar and grill" in Fayetteville NC,
that was weird!
But it was that, or Nick was making me walk home. LMFAO. There was no way he was allowing me in his new car as messy as I was.
BONUS, he got naked too - lol. I peeked!

It was such a fun time - I want to do it again. Legit, I have been looking up more 5k's to participate in.
Anyway, I just wanted to share that moment with you. It was a long waited for moment in my life, and I am really happy I did it!

Hope everyone is having a good day, or that it turns that way soon. Love and hugs xxDee

Vita Sciences Maxasorb Vitamin D3 Cream Review.

Hi there, back again with another product review. This time we are trying out "Vita Science's" Maxasorb Vitamin D3 Cream.

Which basically what it is, is a cream that you rub into your skin. You then absorb vitamin D3 into your system.
For those of you who do not know what Vitamin D3 is, it is the same vitamin your body makes while being outside in the sun. BUT - There is a pro to this cream. A. You lessen the risk of harmful sun exposure. Also B, It is in cream form and not pill form. For those like me who hate taking pills. Or people out there who cannot take pills. Or people out there who already take a ton of pills and do not really wish to add another to the mix.

It is easily adapted into any routine. You simply, pump once into your hand and rub it into your skin.
I personally change places each time. There is no science behind that. It is just how I did it.

For me this comes in handy. I do not spend a lot of time outside. (Lactose intolerant as well) Which makes getting my correct daily dose of vitamin D a chore. This stuff is a godsend too, due to having a daughter who has a slight allergy to the sun. If she is outside for more than 30 minutes, she develops painful blisters all over. So she does not spend a lot of time outside, and I do worry about her gaining a vitamin deficiency because of it.  She does not do well with pills either, so spreading a little cream on her, seemed the easiest route.

Vitamin D is important you guys. Being deficient in it, you run a higher risk to heart disease, cancer, asthma in children. ETC.  So if you are a die hard Vegan, or a non pill popping person like me, who doesn't stay in the sun much, and cannot stomach milk, I urge you to try this product.  This company also has other vitamins in cream form, if you would like to eliminate a few other pills from your daily schedule as well.

You can get yours by following the link Vitamin D3 Cream As always. Thanks for stopping by. xxDee

Insert clever title here - I'm blocked.

It has been such a long exhausting month of May. Two birthday parties, a fog of doctor appointments with endless pricking and here I am, laid out in my bed clicking on the keyboard with eyes half closed.

I'm not well, they do not know why yet, no doubt more needles, more appointments, more wires, and embarrassing, invasive questions are to come until they do. Do you ever just want to pack in the towel and say fuck it? What ever it is, let it be, I'm just so tired of searching for the answers. I just want to be, LET BE!

I need a vacation! Anyone willing to let me run away with them? If even only for a day or two?

Summer! It's on it's way. The heat has already landed on my front step, but the end of school days is slow to arrive. It seems like these last few weeks are just dragging by. However, the dandelion weeds and wishy flowers make waiting okay.

Pictures finally caught up - and work is still coming steady. I just figure, if I can stay a few a head, maybe I wont drown in the editing process. I have a senior shoot coming up. That should be fun. I look forward to that.

Writing is steady - My fingers seem to click even when it appears my mind isn't quite caught up. I feel slightly ADHD however, due to the fact that I am working on 3 different stories at once. (Come to a blank on one, I move to the next.)  Alice - damn Alice. She has me stuck!

I haven't been very social lately - I somewhat feel bad about that. It's me - none of them. It's that, I don't want to be bothered. I'm lost in my head, lost in confusion and my own fear, spazzing about things completely out of my control. You know something I do not understand? Why do doctors tell you these crazy things, these crazy - scare the shit out of you things, and then make you wait? Why bother telling people at all? Why not just say - we are going to run these tests. You don't need to know why, unless results say otherwise.
I long for my kid days. Where a doctors visit and something serious meant a bottle of the pink yummy stuff. "Amoxicillin I think." and a lollipop. Being an adult really blows!

I'm about to cross off a line in my bucket list. I am excited about that. I'm doing the color run! I have always wanted to run in one of those and finally I am getting to. I told myself at the start of this year, that it was all about chasing my dreams. I think if I really think about it, that I told you guys too. But it is all about chasing my dreams, and one of them "the color run - or any 5k really) was one of them.

It's nice you know - looking back and realizing that you followed through. I think that is what I will need to do each new years from now on. Give myself themes. Because saying weird shit like, I'm going to exercise and stop cursing, etc. It's just all bullshit! One big pile of crap that I say to make myself feel better. Themes, just makes it seem possible. I like the no strings thing. The YOU CAN if you want to, but you do not have to, because you never said you would thing. Yep - I think I will stick to themes.

well it's 8. sad as it is, I think I am heading to bed. My pillow says the computer light is too bright and it misses the smell of my coconut scented hair. Have a great night everyone. xxDee

Slim Extreme 3D Thermo Active Shaping Serum Review.

Hey guys, I'm back with another product review.  Thanks to Tomoson , I got to try this stuff free.

First off - Right off the bat. I noticed the smell. It smells a lot like Nair hair remover. It has sort of a burnt type smell to it. I cannot really explain the scent, can only compare, and what comes to mind is Nair.

The feel. It smooths on like lotion, it isn't oily or greasy feeling. It does heat up. Not to go perv or anything, but this blog is apparently about comparisons. It's kind of like KY warming gel. Only - it feels like lotion.

This stuff is supposed to aid in the reduction of cellulite, It also has a thermo fat burner which I guess actively reduces fat deposits.  It contains caffeine and horsetail extract that stimulates metabolism, and supports collagen production. It is supposed to help with problem areas, such as abdomen, waist and buttocks.   Sounds great right? And at a low marketable price of 15 bucks. What do you have to lose - Other than troublesome cellulite and fat deposits?


I have been using this stuff for about 2 weeks on my thighs and stomach mainly. I did not use it on my bum, because I didn't want to lose fat deposits there. I enjoy filling out my jeans. Keep in mind while using this stuff, I have been eating healthy and exercising.

My own personal opinion with this stuff - is it is a hit or miss. Some areas, I have noticed actual change. Like my thighs. (I have three kids- I do not have a thigh gap! I have curvy thighs, and while I love them, I sometimes do get that undesirable cellulite rearing its ugly little head.) Did this stuff drastically change that? No, it did not make it magically disappear. However, it has lessened it some. I have only used this stuff for two weeks, maybe even a little less. It takes at least a month to see any real change, so for me to see even a little at barely two weeks, gives me hope that this stuff is the real deal.

I didn't really have a lot of cellulite or fat deposites on my stomach area that I noticed, I just wanted it tightened and toned. - ODDLY, I noticed my stretch marks lighten. Which thanks to dear Nick, It is because this stuff was working. ( I had more (fat deposits) than I thought, and by reducing the fat deposits there, and aiding in collagen production (the stuff that keeps skin elastic and pliable.) I feel like it helped renew the area. Could be the constant dead skin removal with sugar scrubs mixed with the moisturizing portion and collagen help that this stuff provides.

All in all, I am on the fence.  I feel like I should use it a little while longer, and update you guys again once the tube is completely empty. It's not a miracle worker, not magic in a bottle, but it is doing something.

As always, thanks for stopping by xxDee

Very Healthy Spiral Vegetable Slicer (Product Review)

Hey guys, I am back with another product review. This time, we are reviewing the "Very healthy spiral vegetable slicer."

It's a nifty little contraption that works a lot like a pencil sharpener, to shred veggies into veggie noodles. 

I never really thought I would ever need one of these, but now that I have tried it, I don't think I could ever not have one. 

"I use mine more for making salads."

It's quick, it's convenient most most importantly, It's easy. 

It's compact so it makes storing it simple, it also comes with its own cleaning brush (Which comes in handy for its already easy to do cleaning.) and a round vegetable grip that helps you press the ends of the veggies through without harming your fingers. "It is very sharp." 

This spirals hand grips are a plus. Making handling it a cinch. 

In all honesty - It works, it isn't a gimmick. But that is not why I love it. I love it because I am weird about my food, I like things to look pretty, or neat, or different. Salads have not been the same. 

ONE NOTE: I wouldn't use this to shred tomatoes or like type veggies. I made a mess. But it does make for making an interesting dish for your friends and family.

You can get yours here if you would like Spiral Slicer by VarietyLand
Also visit the company to learn more By clicking here

I did do a youtube product review which you can watch below.

ALSO -- I am giving one of these babies away free - All you have to do is be the first to comment on this blog, or comment in the comments on my facebook page. Facebook

UPDATE: CONGRATS SHANDEE!

As always - Thanks for stopping by xxDee

Say it isn't so!

So -  I am in sort of a pickle. Summer is coming up, and in the Chattaway house, summer means "MOVIES!"

Not going to the movies, but rather "Making movies." Since we will finally have the time to.

We are not pro's by any means, but we love it anyways.

So the other day comes along and I ask, "So what movies are we going to do this summer?"
I ask this, because we have a list of movies we plan on doing. (movie ideas really.)

Want to know their response? "None!" WTF????? What do they mean none. This is what we do, to pass the time!!!!! I collect myself and ask. "Why? Are you guys too old now?" Praying they are just joking and we are really going to make movies, because I really am not ready to give up playing with them yet.  They reply, and rather bitterly so.

"No. We are just tired of being the only ones on film. You're never in the movies. The whole idea of making movies as a family is that we are ALL in them!" The two youngest agreed sternly.

Are you freaking kidding me? I am not meant to be in front of a camera, I am meant to be behind it. It is where I am comfortable. I don't even know how to act!

So I am torn. Do I (A) Make a fool of myself in front of friends and family and who ever "Stranger wise" Pops along, so that I can force them to do the entire list this summer. Or (B) Skip out on making movies this summer completely.

I really want to make movies with them, but I do not have the slightest clue on what I could possibly do by myself.
At the risk of sounding like a two year old throwing a tantrum. "This is so unfair!"

I have this guy I know, known him since childhood, back in my school daze! Anyway, he does these one man skits. He's sort of funny. But I am not. I lack the funny! My funny has people hearing crickets.

Anyone out there have any ideas? Any? What can a mom with NO acting skills what so ever, do to, to appease their side of the deal? 

Today has been a productive day otherwise. Most of my shoots are caught up - Editing is finally slowing down. Which makes life a little less stressful.
This morning started off surprisingly well. No  fights out of the girls about getting up and getting ready for school.
Honestly - I was so caught up in completing tasks, I didn't stop to realize just how smooth today truly went. WOW, I had a good day you guys!

I'm in the process of making supper now, nothing healthy and I'm okay with that. I am so tired of salads. I deserve something bad that just tastes good! Chili cheese dogs and tater tots! I am sure tomorrow I will be kicking myself in the butt for it. Adding a few extra steps, a few extra kettle bell swings, etc.  But tonight ... It's whats in order.

Speaking of dinner, I better get back into the kitchen before the smoke alarm goes off. I swear - CPI security hates when I am cooking! Damn smoke alarms!

Have a great one everyone! Do something that makes you smile! xxDee

On a mission - a secret mission.

It's been such a long weekend, and it has only just begun. SORRY for the mass overload of product reviews. I like to get those out of the way once I have tried them, that way I do not forget. (I tend to forget a lot of things lately.) Also, you get penalized for not getting them done on time. So, since I love free stuff, I decided, the earlier I get them done, the better.

I have been up to my eyeballs in editing. Mainly shoot work. I forgot how tedious the editing part is. I love the shooting. I love to be behind my camera, the editing part. Not so much. But you gotta do what you gotta do.

So I am on a mission. A sort of secret mission that I wanna share with you guys. Especially since I am thinking about blogging out the whole process.
My marriage. I am married to my best friend, and like all relationships - they come with flaws. I am sure that this relationship is more flawed then him or I would care to admit, and I haven't a clue on where to set things straight.
He said once, while we sat watching Nichole Kidman, dolled up in a blonde wig, tricking the community of Step-ford  CT. "The step-ford wives. "Why can't you be more like those wives."

It made me think. Is that what guys really want? Some dolled up blonde in a dress, who doesn't speak unless spoken to? Who doesn't have her own opinion, whose only goal in life is to please her husband?
SIGH .... I am sure more than one of you men out there said "Well - yeah!"

I am thinking about undergoing a sort of challenge. A step-ford challenge. 31 days of being a step-ford wife.
I am not particularly sure how this will go, seeing how I am very opinionated and I am not sure if I can just- simply be quiet.
But I am thinking, I might just give this a go. I might fail, but then, I might pin  point some areas that need help. Areas that I might otherwise not see.

If and when I do this and I believe that I will, I will provide a link in my blog, to a separate blog which will be invisible to my husband. So that those who wish to follow along. May do so.

I am obviously going to have to do some research and see what the rules of  being a step ford wife are, but my goal is getting started by May.
Lets just see if Nick really wants a step-ford wife.

Other than that - today has been a pretty good day. I made chocolate covered strawberries and banana's - the only thing I wish I would have done was get the darned house clean. But chilling with my three mini me's seemed more important.

Here is hoping that you guys all have a great night. xxDee

Microfiber Cleaning Towels (5 Pack) Review

Hello spring and everything that comes with it (Including) Good old fashioned car washing's! My husband is notorious for babying his vehicle. Which means, hours of out in the driveway with all the latest creams and soaps, interior wipes. etc.

This year being even worse, with him having gotten his new baby and all. 

One thing that we do not really enjoy with the spring is all the pollen. The dust. etc. 

North Carolina spring goes a lot like this - Oh, you just washed your car? Poor baby. Spits green pollen dust all over. 

Now these cloths, are bigger than any of the ones that we have gotten from local stores like, Target or the good old dollar store. Which I honestly think is great for covering more surface area. 

The suck up the water pretty good and they do leave a streak free shine. 

BUT WHAT WE LOVE THEM BEST FOR - Turns out, isn't the car wash. It is for wiping the pollen off the car in the morning. (Dry cloth) 

He loves these for Dusting the inside. and they work pretty good. Normally we use bounty paper towels or old dish cloths, but these are just amazing. They do not leave anything behind.

This particular set comes in a five pack. Shhhh! (I stole 2 from Nicholas.) 

Turns out these are great for dusting inside.

I have allergies to cleaners so having a dry cloth that works better than a wash cloth soaked in spray cleaners, makes life pretty fantastic. 

I use one for house cleaning. 

The other I found - is great for cleaning off computer screens, TV's, phones, tablets ...etc. I use the other on all the electronics. 

They do not lie either. They are washable. I have bought some that say they are washable, but then get all harsh feeling. Not soft like they once were, etc. These are exactly like they were before the wash. Which is an added bonus for me. Because It means I will have to replace them less. 

I did get this set free in return for my unbiased review - do I recommend these? Yes, without a doubt. Nick will say they are great for the car, I will say they make housework simple! 

For my house, 5 isn't enough. So I will be adding a few more sets to the household. You can get your own set by clicking on the link Microfiber Cloths 

Silicone Gloves for Cooking and Baking Review.

Hi guys, just Dee here with another product review. I am telling you. If you love free, then you will love Tomoson

This time we are checking out these cool silicone gloves for cooking and baking.

These are heat resistant up to 425 degrees.
and because I like to press limits, I decided to test it a little farther.


First thing I noticed, is that these are different than my other set of gloves. There was no interior lining. Which makes for easier clean up - but I was worried about the durability of them. So I was a little nervous when trying these out.


The little dot grips are awesome. Not only can you take pots and pans, in and out of the oven etc. without worrying about your hands slipping - But - It made for great jar opening gloves as well. Which came in handy when my craving for pickles hit me full tilt.


I started off at a lesser degree than 425 to calm my nerves. I should also mention, that I did not treat these gloves normal. (Normally) when someone takes something out of the oven, it is a quick process. You take it out, you typically sit it on top of the stove.
However, I decided to see how long I could hold it before feeling any type of heat.

325 - I could hold no problem for about a minute and a half. (Making pans from oven to table an easy task)
425- It was about 45 seconds before I felt the heat through the gloves. (Which comes on with the feeling of holding a hot microwaved rag.) I realize that 45 seconds doesn't seem long. But in the scheme of things, 45 seconds is a lot longer than it seems.

450, things got dodge. You do not want to be holding anything from an over at 450 for longer than 25-30 seconds. But still I was impressed.  These babies are only supposed to go up to 425. and taking something out of the oven at 450, (if set down at normal speeds instead of holding and waiting to see when the heat strikes) You could still get away with using them at the higher temp. There was no melting, or any damage done at all during any part of my experiment.


For normal use, at temps 425 and below, these are some pretty good gloves. If you would like a pair, you can get yours Here

Clearviewlight Camping Headlamp Set Review + GIVEAWAY!

Okay, I have never in my life been so impressed with such a tiny piece of equipment. I received this dandy little headlamp free - through Tomoson in return for my unbiased review.

First off, this little guy is amazing!

I felt a little funny, a lot like I resembled one of the guys from ghost busters, but it grows on you. Pretty soon, you wont even realize that you are wearing it.

This baby came in handy when our area had a power outage. I couldn't find the candles and this helped tremendously.
I also use this a lot when I take Marley (our dog) Out into the woods.

It has a few different light levels, that allows your light to last longer. etc.

For the price. This is something useful to have!

For something so small, you can actually see pretty far in front of you. The red light portion of it, is a little scary for my taste, but that is only because I watch too many scary movies.

If you are an avid boy scout or a camper, or even a hiker, or someone who just likes to wonder around outside. This can and will definitely come in handy! Could be great for working under a car, Attics and craw spaces. etc. It is a pretty nifty little light to have.
Please do grab yourself one here : ClearViewLight camping headlamp

I am hosting a giveaway of this product. IF YOU WANT THIS -  You should be aware that a valid USA mailing address will need to be provided in a timely fashion.
WANT IT ?? Be the first person to comment on this blog or on my shared post on Facebook, and this is all yours!

CONGRATS : Rafael Velez Jr : From Facebook. 

Please, I do host giveaways and I think it could be easier for people to win there. Feel free to add me on facebook!  My FaceBook

3 in 1 Interchangeable Derma Roller Kit Review.

Okay, so I am approaching my mid thirties, and like most women out there, I am concerned about looking young. Keeping the wrinkles at bay - maybe even erasing a few. Also sitting snug in the back of my mind are those pesky stretchmarks from enjoying the miracle of life.

The product I am trying now, is supposed to help with all of those things and more! 

So imagine my excitement when I got chose on Tomoson to try this product free. 

I have never in my life been to the spa for face or treatments of the skin in any capacity. 

For those of you out there who have never heard of these sort of treatments or maybe just doesn't know what this product does ...

It is a Micro needling type therapy. Used to help 

acne scar's, cellulite reduction, stretch mark removal, anti aging, sun and age spot repair, wrinkle elimination, collagen stimulation, and a lot more. All with the swift roll of a wand. 

You can check it out for yourself  Puruskin Derma Roller

I have to admit that when the package arrived I was immediately impressed. A little intimidated as well.  The package comes with a wand, and three different sized heads- all in sterile plastic packaging.  I went with the 1.0mm needle size. 

It tells you on the box which sized head works best with what you are trying to accomplish. 

I was afraid at first. I am terrified of needles and this thing looked like it came strait out of the horror flick (Hellraiser) My first thought was pinhead. 

I read all directions carefully, downloaded the book and put on my determined face. I was going to try this no matter how scary it looked. I want those marks GONE! 

I will not lie, it states on the box that you will feel slight discomfort. I did not notice on my thighs at first. (My thighs have slight stretch marks due to weight gain during pregnancy.) Actually it just felt like I was lightly scratching my nails over my skin. I slapped on a combination of Vitamin C serum and Vitamin E oil, pulled up my pants and went about my day. It was a little less than a minute when I noticed a slight burn. (It feels like razor burn after shaving your legs.) Not intolerable, but definitely noticeable.

I have been doing this in the same spot for the past week and a half. 

I also graduated from my thigh to my face. I noticed the discomfort instantly on my face. It is not intolerable, but it isn't exactly pleasant. 

I didn't exactly have a plan when it came to my face, my only thought was - if I did the whole thing, then maybe I will just look younger. 

The discomfort after you finish - feels a lot like the burn your ears feel after just getting them pierced. Just sort of eh, not so pleased, but not in pain, mixed with a hot sensation. 

The third place I have been using this is on my tummy (again) trying to rid myself of my baby battle wounds. 

I will start with my face: I didn't have a lot of wrinkles yet to begin with, however - the ones I did have (crows feet) have lessened. Even when I smile, they are less noticeable.  I did break out really bad with acne after doing this, however I chalk that up to "it gets worse before it gets better." My face also did that with proactive before it got better. Today, I have maybe two or three pimples (again) I believe that is just do to hormones for this time of month.  I notice a difference in my tone. My face is normally splotchy. Red patches here and there, different skin tones in other places, now it seems more even toned. The giant red dot I had left on my chin from a pimple I couldn't resist, is almost non-see'able. 

My thighs, I did notice a huge difference there! The stretch marks were pretty deep embedded, which is why I hated them. They are not gone, but its almost as if they leveled out with the rest of my skin. I feel like I should give this a full month to see if it gets any better. They are not gone, but there is a difference. 

My tummy - again, the same as my thighs, although these ones are not quite leveled out just yet either. (My tummy however was the last place I started and I have been using it there for less time.)

Does this work? In my own opinion , it is definitely doing something. Do I think that it is a quick fix? No, I think that this is something you are going to have to add to your routine. It is going to take time. It's not a magic wand where you rub here and there once or twice and instantly resemble what you did when you were 18.  But I do believe that with diligent and steady use, you will receive the results you are after.  

BUT DO NOT DO THIS BEFORE YOU HAVE TO GO OUT! You cannot apply makeup for 12 hours after. This is best done on a weekend!

If you wanna give it a shot, I urge you to grab yourself one. Get yours here

Sunsella Stainless Steel Vegetable Steamer Review.

Another great product to tell you all about. This time I am talking about a stainless steel vegetable steamer.

We eat a lot of veggies in this house, and our main vegetation of choice is broccoli and cauliflower.

Normally, I just stick them in a pot and boil them in water till done.

Do you ever notice when vegetables are cooked boiled in water that they lose their flavor? Also, that it seems they are soggy. I prefer mine not to be that way, so I was happy when I was sent this steamer "Free" In exchange for my unbiased review.


First things first "Looks." It's bright and shiny and very much resembles some kind of cook space ship right out of the package. It is made from stainless steel so it will not rust.
The package didn't come with instructions, and I was at a loss on how to open it.

I have never seen, nor used a steamer before. I tried twisting it "lightly - it looked sharp and I was nervous I might cut my fingers." I tried looking for an edge to pop it open. At a loss of my pride, I watch my husband spread it apart at the top with ease. It really is that simple. Put a thumb on either side and pull it open like a flower. (This is for those out there like me, who ignore the simple things and always try the hard things first.)
Opening it up, there is a bar with a ring (like a grenade) I didn't know what this was for until I used it.  (it's for ease of lifting it out of the pot)

This steamer only works if you are using a pot with a lid. It will not work in an open environment.
You place it in your chosen pot/pan (it fits a number of sizes) Fill your pot  about an inch thick with water. (Or until the water reaches the bottom of the steamer - there are feet that keep it from the bottom of the pan.)

Took about 15 minutes to steam broccoli enough for 5. It was the perfect texture! Not watery. I noticed instantly the difference in taste.

I also have used this to steam the flour tortillas we use for fajita night. Microwaving them always made the edges hard, but now, it's like getting them from my favorite Mexican restaurant MiCasitas.

All in all, this is a cute little steamer, easy to store and works exactly as it should. I have used it a total of 4 times so far, and never once has it failed me. I would definitely suggest this gadget for your list of kitchen ware to get! Which you can get yours clicking the link Stainless Steel Veggie Steamer
Also check out the awesome company that makes these. www.sunsella.com

Bean Boozled Challenge Completed

I never in my life thought I could ever feel legitimate fear for a simple thing like candy - until now.

I laughed when Erin came to me with the Bean boozled challenge. Thinking - "How bad can it be?"

• There are 10 sets of 2 different flavors (which look exactly the same.) Only - one is a good flavor and one is a horrific flavor.
• You have to go through the flavors - Who ever spits out the most - loses.
• If you both spit out the same amount of jelly beans - then there is a sudden death round. Aka, you use the little spinner that comes with the box.
• Wanna play? Get yours here:  Bean Boozled
• Favors are as follows
• Tutti Fruitti or Stinky socks (It really tastes like stinky socks.)
• Peach or Barf (Again - It really tastes as it is stated.)
• Licorice or skunk spray (This is terrible - hard to breathe, feels like you just got gassed)
• Juicy Pear or booger. (Tastes like jalapenos)
• Caramel corn or Moldy cheese
• Coconut or baby wipes (tastes like soap.)
• Chocolate pudding or canned dog food (Tastes like wet dog food smells!)

We forgot 2 flavors during our turn - but decided against a redo

• Lime or Lawn clippings
• Buttered popcorn or rotten eggs.

I without a doubt, as I sit writing this- feel sick to my stomach. I am queasy, and I feel a little like I might still hurl. That challenge is definitely not something to laugh at. It's hard. Especially to those with weak stomachs. "I warn you ahead of time - if you decide to want to try."

You can watch here if you want to see my daughter Erin and I complete her challenge.

Zester - Best Premium Zester Grater- Product Review

I am actually excited to write this review. I typically get a lot of really cool products to try free for review, and I have come across a lot of good ones. Today however, I get to tell you about a really great product.

Calling all cooks! Or Chef wanna-be's like me. This Zester, by far - is the best one that I have ever held in my hands.  "I am a big fan of PROOF there for I will be attaching a video review as well - see it in action with your own eyes down below or click the link  http://youtu.be/y0CcN1o9Dp0"

I love to cook - I am always trying new recipes that I find on Pinterest and a lot of them call for the zest of lemons, limes. etc. I own a number of zesters (All currently in the trash bin, awaiting trash day.) I keep buying them, because none of them seem to work. 

You know the drill, you pull out your zester, you pull out a lemon and most of the rind gets caught up in all those little holes. You practically have to pound it on a cutting board just to get some off.

A recipe I use, calls for the rind of 2 limes. It ends up taking me 4 or 5 just to get the two teaspoons needed. Serious frustration! 

First thing I noticed when this baby arrived in the mail, was that it was shiny! For a cook in the kitchen, shiny kitchen wear is definitely an attraction. It's made from stainless steel. I also noticed that it came with a cover. (None of my other zesters were cool enough to come with a cover.) After popping that baby off, I knew the answer of why it comes with protection wear.

SHARP!

This baby is as sharp as a razor blade. I also noticed something different about this zester. The holes. The holes were bigger. Not too big that you are going to get clumps. But big enough that I felt like maybe JUST MAYBE, I wouldn't be wasting any limes/lemons anytime soon. 

It works like a charm. It worked so bad I couldn't help myself. I was zesting everything. I did waste some lemons and limes, (initially) But only out of excitement.  (I found use for it in my water infuser) so not a total waste. 

I have never in my life zested chocolate before. Why? Because I felt like it would waste the chocolate getting stuck in the holes. I wouldn't abuse chocolate like that. NOW, I tried it for the first time. Little beautifully zested flakes of chocolate decorated this mornings cocoa. 

I could go on and on, and the more I zest, the more I would. I would put money on it. I would bet the world that you would love this zester. Not a doubt in my mind. Not on this one. No one is paying me to say this, no one is holding a gun to my head. 

I with my whole entire heart back this baby up! It is worth the money. I did get this one free in exchange for an honest review. However, I will be buying a second. (In case I hadn't done dishes.)

Oh speaking of that. It is easy to clean - I wouldn't recommend a cloth. (it snags and tares.) I do not recommend a sponge either. I used a bottle brush. Worked like a charm. It is extremely sharp. I did accidentally cut myself so be careful. (I was silly enough to try to rub residue off with my fingers.

You can get yours here - Zester I do realize that some people may be thinking, I don't know. 13 bucks for a zester? But its worth it. You can spend 13 bucks now, and have a zester that works, or buy one for 4 or 5 dollars and have to buy another to replace it because it doesn't work well. I would get it!

I did get this zester for free - in exchange for my unbiased review. 

Turn back time

Tuesday morning - off to a rocky start. Whether it was bad peanuts or bad shrimp, or just bad luck, I have three darling little daughters occupying both bathrooms. "Food poisoning" That is what I am chalking it up to. Or at least, until I can call Dr. Garrett and she tells me something different. (They do not open until 8)
Right about now, I am not even sure we can make it 40 minutes in a car ride, efficiently.

Britt's birthday went off well. She opted out for a more family oriented get together. "Remember my rant of finding all the Alice stuff, only to be told she changed her mind?" Family oriented days are so much easier.
She did however request that her cake be homemade, and not bought. Took me 4 hours to figure out how to do the icing to make it look professional. (I cheated a little. - Used store bought icing.) It came out cute though, and she loved it - so that is what matters.

I do know that for her 16th birthday, she no doubt about it wants a "Sweet 16" At least I know in advance. I have a full year to save and plan. I really hope that I do not fail her. It seems to be important to her.

Two birthdays on the way - both back to back in May. My two youngest. Sigh ... time truly does just fly by.

Supposed to do BEAN BOOZLED today, I do not know how that is going to go, with the kids feeling icky. I think we might just have to push the pause button on that one.

Looking for a new editor. The one I hired to edit my newest work, backed out on me, after already having had it for a little over a month.
I am sure there are sites that will help me find someone.
Really does suck though. I had already paid her, and I was hoping to get my new book out this month. I guess sometimes though, things do not go as planned. It will be a little late is all.

Today is all about catching up! I need to get my ass in gear in photo editing. Which it is going well. I have those products to review, which most require a video, and I am anal retentive. It is going to take a while to do those videos. I also have house work, and some extra writing, a few bills to pay. etc.

Random Rant

You know, I am starting to realize, that I do not like this whole adult business.
Watching my nephew and his girlfriend last night, I was Awestruck. They are the same age I was when Nick and I got married. They are so carefree, and unburdened.

I miss that!

That picture up there is my husband and I.  I was 18 and he was 20.

Fast forward 15 years - and those carefree days have been replaced with stress inducing ones. Everything seemed so much easier back then, like anything was possible. What the hell happened?

It's like, one day you are on top of the world, (or felt like it.) and then you blink, and half your life is over.

I look at our three girls, they have their whole lives ahead of them. So many possibilities and the time to do something amazing! They are so young.
I really do think that I have a fear of getting older. My biggest issue in life, seems to be time. I just do not have enough of it. If only I could take Hermione Granger's time necklace and wind it back a bit, while still keeping my life as it is now. (I do not want to relive it all - I just want to stop aging.)

It's true you know - what old people say. That the older you get, the more time seems to be speeding up. It's terrifying.



On that note, I have some hair to tie up in pony tails, and some crackers and ginger ale  glasses to fill, and a Dr. to call.  I hope you all have a lovely day. Do something that makes you smile ... maybe try one of those things on your bucket list. xxDee

Maybe this isn't such a good idea - Also- That went better than I hoped for.

Baby food challenge!
Okay, so my daughter Erin got herself nominated to take the baby food challenge. Which I guess the premise behind it is where you choose some different kinds of baby food, blind fold your victim and shove it in their face -so-  they can guess the flavor. Who ever guesses the most flavors correctly WINS!

I do not know about any of you guys, but I do not spend a whole lot of time, sampling the baby food selections. I know however, after doing this --- I will definitely continue on my tradition of avoiding it like the plague. "With maybe one slight exception."



You can watch our "Mommy daughter - maybe we shouldn't have done this moment" below.

All in all, even thought at one point I about tossed my cookies, it was a fun moment I wouldn't take back for the world.


Today (Sunday.) I believe Sunday -- "I'm working on about 40 minutes of sleep." So time seems irrelevant. (Seriously thinking I might start sleeping in a separate room than Nick. I just cannot sleep past the snoring!)
It's a good day. Started early.
Today was my first ever "Green ramp." Welcome home shoot for a soldier and their family. I always get nervous. It never fails. Whether it's my first shoot or one of many, I still get my nerves rattled. I think it stems from fear, you know - the "What if's." What if I muck this up, What if the kids don't smile. What if they do not like to pose, or they are nervous in front of the camera, how do I get them out of their shell then?

LUCKILY and I thank my stars every single time I get to work with a family like this.
They knew what they wanted!
I absolutely adore that in a client. Someone who knows exactly what they want. Who has ideas, and input in general. It makes my job a thousand times easier.

I'm still in the process of waiting for the cards to upload to the computer, but a quick peek through on the camera while waiting. I am so excited. I see so many fantastic shots, that I just cannot wait to give them.

I am also thankful that she is so patient. I hate when I have to tell a client that it will be one to two weeks before they receive their photos. A lot of people want them, "That day, the next day, or that minute."
I do not think they realize how much time and effort "The editing stage." takes. I will settle on nothing less than perfect, so I take my time to make sure I am giving them the absolute best photo's I can.
Working on another 6 shoots as well, I was truly thankful that she said "No rush." I do not know if she would ever truly know my gratitude on that.

Now if only I could have burrowed a little of her patience! Upload time, is taking too long!

With a great early start to my day, I have hope for it to continue on well. My day today is mostly going to be a series of moments in preparation.

• Quick clean the house - so that I am free to be (Kids go back to school tomorrow!) First day back after spring break! I am so ready for this! 
• Make their lunches, so that I do not have to get up at 4:35 to make them in the morning. 
• Hopefully sneak in a nap
• prep video work for upcoming product reviews.
• Figure out what to make so that I can make a video to do product reviews. (They are mainly kitchen and cooking utensils.) 
• ETC. ugh, food lion. I cannot forget to run to the store for all the stuff I meant to pick up while grocery shopping. 

It's a short list, but each thing on that list is going to take me till the end of the day to get through. Now on to my next list ... 6 impossible things. (thankful for/reasons to smile)

• I am thankful Brittany is the legal age for babysitting. It was so "Less stressful." To get ready and go, without the hassle of having to trudge three kids from their sleep. "Thanks Britt bear!" 

I really do need to get a handle on the fact that Brittany is older now. I guess I could use that to my advantage while teaching her responsibility. I have got to stop being so over protective and realize that she can be home by herself and she is fully capable of watching her sisters for an hour or two.  I see this in writing. It's just - I haven't quite got a handle on it just yet. 

• I couldn't help but smile- nothing better than watching children's faces light up with such love and joy when they see their daddy/mommy for the first time in a long time. 

Thank you to all you service members out there for everything you do. Thank you. 

• I am thankful for coffee. More specifically the "Starbucks Vanilla Frappuccino" I got from the cold box at Food lion. I really do not think that I would/or will make it thought the day without coffee. 
• I smiled huge at the flashback which slapped me in the face during this mornings shoot. "It's a Bouge" Like Vogue, but with a B. Bouge in this case being "Bug." These two adorable blonde headed twins both pointing towards a bug for daddy to see. 

One Easter, Erin - she was 2 at the time, said that exact same thing. Exact same pronunciation. It was such a lovely moment to pop into mind.

• I'm thankful for Nick. There is nothing more amazing than just hanging out with your best friend in the entire world. I love our laughs, I love that we share so much to laugh about. I love to laugh. 
• BIGGEST SMILE ever when I just told Britt to get dressed. Because of her smile. I hate that she will know her gifts (but I am still going to wrap them whether she likes it or not.) But that big cheeky smile she had on her face, just melts your heart - completely. 

I guess this means, I better get off the computer (seeing how upload time is at 4 hours and 48 minutes until complete.) Get some of those things on my list knocked off. 

I hope anyone that came to spend a moment with me, has a lovely day. Do something that makes you smile! xxDee

*Edit* I apologize, I thought I hit publish before I left. Everything all done, except that nap. Have a great one everyone ((hugs))

Super Excited !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Super stoked today - Just signed into my Tomoson account, hoping for one or two items to review and I got slammed with the mother load! (Pure excitement!)

Anyone who reads me, or has read me - KNOWS - that Dee, (me) Loves herself some free stuff.

It isn't just about getting free stuff though, I genuinely love the whole try it out process. I do not enjoy when I find things that I will have to leave a not so good review for, But am, no doubt about it, over the moon pleased when I find something worth reviewing - and passing on.
A few of these upcoming reviews have giveaways that I will be hosting to US residents. (Sorry to those international, I cannot control that part.) So keep an eye out, this way if any or all of the things that I "Blog review." Catch your eye, you can have a chance of winning for yourself

Please keep in mind before entering a contest "That." I will be asking you for a PO. Box or mailing address to pass to the company so that they may ship you your prize. I will give you an email so that we can do it privately,  If you are not comfortable with that, that is A-Ok!

On top of blog reviews - they have added a youtube button to it. So now, not only do I blog about it, I have to make videos using their products. I am both, excited and nerve racked about that idea. I more so enjoy being BEHIND the camera, not so much in front of it. So I will have to finagle my way around that somehow so that I do not have to be in the shot. Maybe certain angles. lol.

My kid also roped me into a few video challenges, she got nominated, and somehow I am her guinea pig.

Will be doing the .... Bean boozled challenge - Which is a gross jelly belly bean flavored torture game. I guess there are five section and there are two a peice that look exactly alike, only one will be something like "Popcorn flavored" and the other that looks just like it will be "Rotten egg flavored" etc.  You "quote on quote - " Choose your destiny, hoping like hell you get the good flavored bean. Person who spits out the least  WINS!
If you wanna join in, or just want to gross yourself or your friends out - You can get yours Here - Bean Boozled This will be done on video, and right about now, I am just hoping I do not spew on camera.

We will also be doing ...  The baby food challenge. Simple enough, we have a total of 4-8 different things of baby food. Blind folded or eyes closed, we are to be fed a spoonful. We then, have to guess the flavor. (You know) I am uncertain about this one too -- Mainly because, every video I have seen of babies trying new baby foods, look like kids tasting something icky. I never really fed my kids baby food, they went from boobs to table food. So this is going to be new.

I honestly have no idea what else this kid might get me into, but I figure. Your kids are only young for a little while. Eventually they will grow up and do their own thing, leaving you behind to watch them tare their way into the world.
I will take every chance I get to spend time with them, even if that means torture!

I realize I have been away from my blog for a bit, and I really do feel bad about that. Life, just gets in the way. I've been working. A few shoots came up, so editing pictures takes up a lot of my time.

I do have a thankful list/ things that made me smile list ... I haven't stopped finding things to make life feel worth it.

• 1. I am thankful that I have children who know themselves. There is nothing that I have found that gives me more pride, than watching my children grow into themselves. I guide them, but they have molded themselves. Watching who they are becoming, I feel like - If I never accomplish anything else in my life, I did one thing - ABSOLUTELY RIGHT

• 2. This morning at Chik-fil-a I couldn't help but smile, watching my daughter Avery flirt and blush with a little boy in the play room. "She was red- ear to ear" But all smiles. It was really quite adorable to see. 

• 3. I am thankful nick showed me how to open that veggie steamer I have to review. I could not figure it out - and I really didn't want to look stupid on camera. It does not come with directions. I was on the verge of googling, when he simply and quickly went (Vlooop) Open! Now I cannot stop opening and shutting it. It's shiny metal, so it to me feels like what I imagine, the matrix opening up would be like. 

• 4. I'm thankful for pickles and mustard! That stuff is delicious! 

• 5. I smiled watching my dog Marley chase his tail. It's simple, but for some reason. his excitement just melted my heart. He rarely chases his tail. 

• 6. Seriously NO JOKE, Just smiled. I had posted on my facebook (While checking in at breakfast) Hold on -- let me see if I can copy and paste. 

Me: I'm not a huge fan of Chick-fil-A (i don't eat their lunch foods) but I freaking LOVE their chicken mini's and hash browns dipped in honey. Enjoying breakfast out with the girls before work.

My daughter Britt:  

• 

  Brittany Marie Chattaway That was very enjoyable

  
  

• Either way - I laughed, because the kid is 15, and she is just so darned prim and proper. So logical. It was just the way she said it. She just cracks me up. 

BONUS THANKFUL FOR 

I am truly thankful for Brittany. Everyone says that about their kids I know, but in all reality.  I owe my life to her. I was on drugs and spiraling down a dark path when I got preggers with her. She legit saved my life. 

And for her to turn out the way she has , she is so easy. Such an easy going kid. 

Back story  

We get so irritated with band. I need to be punctual. I need things to be done, that are said that they will be done. AKA. If you have a specific date, do not change it on me, because we have already rearranged whatever to be able to make that date. 

Mind you THIS YEAR has been better than any other year re guarding that. But naturally when they change something "Nick and I" would bitch. Ugh, F-this, you're not doing band next year. ETC. 

Well- apparently this kid thought we meant it. 

So this morning at breakfast, we ask her. What do you want for your birthday? Her birthday is on Monday, and she is so picky, that I need a legit answer. 

She then pulls out this folder, this power point -type presentation COMPLETELY READY to make her case. (I really think she should be a lawyer) 

She says - I do not need gifts, I just want to be able to be in band next year. 

Talk about break your heart! 

Of course we had the whole - we would never take anything away from you that you truly love, that we just say that occasionally out of frustration. That, of course she will be taking band next year because we know how much it means to her. 

It was the sacrifice that she was willing to give for something she really wanted. (She is going to do just fine in the world.) I am truly not looking forward to college days, because I will miss her. But I know for a fact, she has what it takes to make it! 

Needless to say - because we told her she was going to band, she no longer has to give anything up, tomorrow we will be taking her gift shopping. 

Like I mentioned above, she is a very specific kid. Anal to the T! She wants what she wants and will accept nothing less. 

She didn't want us to go get the wrong thing. 

"I am going to miss the presents wrapped stage." But I guess this is the age where it is no longer about wrapping paper and bows and party hats. 

I went on a rant ... MY BAD! But that is what I am thankful for. I am thankful for the person my daughter is becoming. 

I have this huge fear of death. Not the dying. Dying doesn't scare me. It is the not being here if my children ever need me. I think Britt, she is one of those that will forge through anything. That fear is softened a bit, still there, but less. 

Well, I am off to see what is in my fridge for supper, so I can use one of these little gadgets I will be reviewing.  It's been rather stormy here, the picture up top is my sky last night.

Hope each and every one of you have a great day/night. xxDee