Wednesday, December 31, 2008

2008 Comes To An End

Holidays & Occasions

I've been very busy today. I had to drop my car off so the brakes can get fixed. At 6 pm we have to go to the first house of the progressive New Year's Eve party. I've never been to one but I'm looking forward to that.

I've had to enter lots of sweeps today because today is the last day of the year. I figured I'd throw out what blog sweeps I entered.

Win the latest palette from MAC Cosmetics' "Dame Edna" collection! Just comment on the 'Dame Edna' post, telling us what you think of MAC's latest glamour icon, Dame Edna! Don't forget to leave your first name, and email address under your commentary.

9 winners will win one (1) Sweet Irie wristlet of their choice

Prize: $30 Children's Place gift certificate.

Prize: Set of four pig ornaments.

Prize: Victoria's Secret Love Spell Stimulating Body Scrub, Hydrating Body Lotion and Refreshing Body Mist

Prize: SNAP! 5MP digital camera.

Prize: Shrek the Halls DVD with Beanie Baby plush toy

Prize: Customized kid's initial wastebasket from Warm Biscuit Bedding Co

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

The Day Before The Last Day of the Year

Vinyl Ready Art - Holidays

I worked on an article for my ThriftyMaven.Com blog for about an hourand a half. It was long and I had to do a lot of research to write it. At first I was excited because I saw I had another post but once again it was someone who was sending me advertising.

We went to Target today because things were marked down 75 percent. I also checked out Walgreens, Walmart, and CVS. I got some good deals.

Dinner was using up the last of the ham. I made homemade baked mac and cheese.

Here are the blog contests I entered today:

Prizes (5 - 1 per week): $300 JCPenney gift card.

Prize: Box of personalized Fruit Roll-Ups

Prizes (5): Copy of Jamie at Home: Cook Your Way to the Good Life by Jamie Oliver

Prize: Gio Tote with blanket from Dwell Studio Baby

Prize: Blank of online-entry baby book of choice from Baby Butterfly Books

Prize: Creativity for Kids prize pack

Prize: I Am Legend Ultimate Collector's Edition DVD.

Prize: Copy of The Centurion's Wife by Davis Bunn and Janette Oke

Prize: The Secret Life of the American Teenager: Season One DVD

Prize: "Under New Management" t-shirt

Prize: Throw blanket from Sygnetcreations.etsy.com

Prize: Gio Tote with blanket from Dwell Studio Baby

This is not a blog contest but it is great if you qualify for it.

Talk about a great contest from Publix. They are giving away ten 3-day trips for 2 to Super Bowl XLIII in Tampa, FL, incl airfare. Even if you don't win you have the opportunity to win one of the 1,505 $100 Publix gift cards. Simply call 1-888-216-4479.

Legal stuff: This contest is open only to: AL, FL, GA, SC, & TN. You must be 18 or older (19 in AL). LIMIT ONE PHONE ENTRY PER PHONE NUMBER PER DAY. If you or any member of your family have won a prize valued at over $500 from the Pepsi Bottling Group within the last 24 months you are not eligible.

Good Luck.

Monday, December 29, 2008

Hubby Is a Cheap Date

Today Darryl and I had one long cheap date. First we went to the library and returned the DVD's we've seen and then checked out nine new videos. Then we went to Buffalos. We went there with a coupon for buy one entre get one free. After that coupon we stil would have owed $12. Fortunately, as a gift we received a $10 gift card for Buaffalos. So our meal includng tip was about $5.

From there we went to the movies. I won a free ticket to the movies and I received a free movie ticket as a gift. We brought in our own soda. I've been wanting to see the movie Marley and Me. Ever since I read that book I've been waiting for the movie. The book had me in tears at the end. I liked the movie OK but the book was really far better.

Not much time for blog contests but I did learn that one should write their email in the entry because like one of the bloggers said you blog usually doesn't give the reader a chance to reach you. Good point.

I did receive an email stating I won a DVD today.

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Sunday, Sunday, Sunday

Vitalife


This morning I went shopping. I was able to get a couple of good deals. First of all bags of Hershey Kisses were marked down to $1.25 and I had coupons for 50 cents off bringing the cost down to 75 cents a bag. I stuck them in the freezer for next Christmas. I also was able to find a doll for Lily for only $1.99. It had been marked down at Rite Aid. The doll came with a little camera, cell phone, and notebook computer.

For lunch I bought a quiche with some of the left over ham.

Here are the blog contests I entered today:

Prize: Zack & Zoey marled yarn basic knit dog sweater

Prizes (3): Monsterquest: Complete Season Two DVD.

Enter for your chance to win a Raspberry Paperboy Cap!

Prize: Package of two prime, dry-aged porterhouse steaks from Peter Luger

Prize: JBL On Stage 200iD speakers, iSkin Revo2 iPhone 3G case, and Pogo iPhone stylus

oh no not again: Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS.

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS

Prize: Zenses Ocean and Zenses Rainforest video games for Nintendo DS

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS.

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS.

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS.

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS

Prize: Zenses Ocean and Zenses Rainforest video games for Nintendo DS

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS


Gee After entering all those do you think I will win one?

Prize: The Longshots t-shirt.

Prize: Hip Hop ABS DVDs and weights

Prize: Sothys' At Home Spa Kit (ARV $140).

Prize: Yes We Will reusable bag from ECOBAGS


OMG A Follower! A Follower!!!!! I'm actually jumping up and down in my head I'm so excited. Now if I could just get some followers on thrifty maven. So awsome. I checked out her site and it was pretty good. I'm honestly trying to figure out how to promote thrifty maven. I have to write several people tommorrow. One to figure out how she promotes her site. Her name is the Thrifty Mama. I met her at CVS last week. She said I could shoot her an email and try to help me by answering some questions. I have to write the guy I won the computers from and tell him how thrilled we are to have received it. I also have to thank a woman who republished an article I wrote for Thrifty Maven and see if I can return the favor. Finally since I have a follower I should say wow wow wow. Thank you for following my site.

Saturday, December 27, 2008

Some After After Christmas

Young Couple Shopping at Shoe Store

gifts I bought today include five more ornaments and two hurricane lamps that I have been wanting. I also bought the CD A Very Special Christmas from 1987. I have been wanting this CD forever. It has Madonna singing Santa Baby. I was able to buy if for $4.50 and Walmart gave me a free music download. I bought an old Marvin Gaye song called "Give It Up Part I). This is a cool dance song from back in the day. I'm so very excited about finally getting this DVD.

I started this morning by entering a blog contest for a free flip camcorder. I really want to win one. I found a contest for it on this site called Never Grew Up. I entered it by posting a comment and blogging about it. I made sure I followed their directions exactly. I noticed that the owner sent me a message and wants to add me to their blog roll. In return he wants me to add him to his blog roll. I'm going to have Darryl do just that.

So here are my blog contests I've entered today:

Prize: $50 Photo Fiddle gift certificate.
I entered a blog contest to win a flip camcorder

Prizes (3): Transformers Energon : The Ultimate Collection DVD

Prizes (3): Power Rangers Jungle Fury : Into the Jungle and Power Rangers Jungle Fury : Way of the Master DVDs

Prize: $30 The Children's Place gift card.

Prize: Zenses Ocean and Zenses Rainforest for Nintendo DS.

Prize: A Day With My Dad At The Beach by Lance Waite

Prize: Land's End cashmere tee sweater

Prize: Red Palm Centro mobile phone

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS. (I seem to be entering contests for this prize often)

Prize: Copy of Life Doesn’t Begin 5 Pounds from Now by Jessica Weiner.

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS

Prize: VUDU movie set-top-box (ARV $299).

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS

Prize: GiiNii 7" wedge digital picture frame

Prize: Sling Media Slingbox PRO-HD unit

Prizes (5): Beethoven's Big Break DVD.



We also went to the library where I was able to check out seven videos. Darryl spent most of his day, as he has for the past couple of days, working on trying to fix his computer. He couldn't fix it so now he's setting up the new computer I won for him.

OH my I just received the following email.

Hi, Catherine. Congratulations! Since we didn't hear back from the first winner, you are now the winner of the Thrifty Jinxy Serah's Cupcake Soap Giveaway. Please send me your mailing address so we can have the sponsor get your prize out to you. You must respond within 72 hours of this e-mail or we will have to select a new winner.

Congratulations and thanks for participating in our giveaways!

Chrysa





Chrysa Duran
Thrifty Jinxy
http://thriftyjinxy.blogspot.com/

I sent her my information. Well that will probably go to someone as part of a gift. In the meantime, Darryl set up his new computer and is learning how to use it. It's so different than anything I've ever had. The screen is 25 inches and it has a wireless keyboard and a wireless mouse.

Friday, December 26, 2008

T'was The Day After Christmas

Christmas trees for sale

I awoke this morning around 2:30 this morning and I barely went back to sleep. I finally woke up at 4:45 and took the dogs out to do their business. When I got home I had to hurry out of bed to buy the stuff for next Christmas. Darryl and I went to Walmart. I was able to buy six large gift baskets and three small gift baskets. I also bought some ornaments. After Walmart it was on to Target. I bought several ornaments and a couple of gift bags. I figured I'd spend $200 today on Christmas stuff but I didn't.

The last of our computers finally came and i was just so thrilled. I can't wait to give these computers to the boys. This is just such a thrilling moment for me.

I did get the second part of my Christmas gift from Bath & Body Works. I bought three hand soaps, three shower gels, and three lotions with my $50 gift card.

Darryl had so many problems with his computer. First his computer was taking him to sites that he hadn't typed the URL for. Then if he went to Yahoo to type a search it would take him to sites that didn't exist or that were spammy He's been working on trying to fix his computer all day. Then I had lots of problems with my internet today. It really messed me up for hours. I have no clue whatsoever what contests I've entered and what ones I haven't entered. It didn't deter me too much I just didn't get that much accomplished. As you can see, I'm finally back on the internet. That means I'm not giving up on that blog experiment.

Here's what I entered:

Win MyCoke Rewards codes that can be turned into MyCoke Rewards points on the MyCoke Rewards website. Entering is simple. Just fill out the form with your name and email address

Prize: $25 Build-A-Bear Workshop gift card

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS or Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS.

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS.

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS.

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Tidings of Blogging Contest Cheers

Santa claus leaving

I fixed Darryl a vegan breakfast of veggie sausage and eggs florentine. After breakfast we opened our gifts. Mrs. Humphries gave me some silver earrings. I received postcard and regular stamps from Kim. Pixie gave me a gift card for Starbucks. I also received A Woman's Heart Knowing God Today from my new coworker, Mrs. Christian. Darryl got me panties from Victoria Secret, one pink and one nude. He also got me the new Ann Rule book. I can't wait to read it.

I ordered Darryl a last minute Christmas gift that he won't receive for 4 to 6 weeks. A free subscription for Smart Money from MyCokeRewards.

I made spiral ham, stuffing, mashed sweet potatoes, corn, peans, rolls, and salad for Christmas dinner.

Yes another day in bloggy contest world. I'm entering so many it's beginning to wear me down. Do people really enter every one of these? I just can't seem to do that.

Here's what I entered today.

Prizes (2): Bottle of Country Bob’s All Purpose Sauce.

Prize: Auntie Anne’s Make-Your-Own Pretzel kit

HeatComfort Antistatic Throw.

Prize: Black & Decker Power Monitor

Prize: Flip Ultra camcorder

Prize: SmartShopper automated grocery list organizer.

Prize: Professional Bull Rider DVD, t-shirt and frosty mug.

Prize: Acer Ultra Mini PC laptop

Prize: Zenses Rainforest video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses Ocean video game for Nintendo DS.

Merry Christmas for All My Friends


old and new. I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas.

Last night hubby and I drove around the neighborhood looking at Christmas lights and listening to Christmas music. The twinkling of the colored lights in the darkness got me to thinking of a song I learned as a child, "This Little Light of Mine."

Each of us has a light (spirit) that longs to shine amid the darkness that surrounds us. So many of you strive daily to make the lives of others better, caring for relatives who are unable to care for themselves, a true commitment to community, nuturing your children, and donating to charitable organizations.

Rejoice in the special light that shines within you. Let it warm the hearts of others and guide you in the journey and promise of the future.

I'm wishing you and your loved ones joy and peace during this season and throughout the New Year.

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

The Day Before Chistmas


Today Darryl and I watched two movies. One was Recount, a CNN movie about the Bush/Gore Florida recount. We also watched Drillbit Taylor.

Our big win came today. Well almost. You see it was supposed to have seven boxes and only six arrived. Still it was exciting and I wanted to announce it with pictures but we have to wait just another day or so. You see the guy accidentally left a label on one of the boxes with his information on it and it went back to him and not me.

Since I didn't have to go anywhere today I entered some snail mail contests and of course some blog contests. Here are the ones I entered today.

Prize: Goldilocks and the 3 Bears DVD.

Prize: $500 Visa gift card, 30 mega rolls of Scott Tissue paper towels, and 10 12-packs of Scott toilet paper.

Prize: Mutsy Spider stroller

Prize: Pixie Hollow t-shirt, flower box, and journal

Prize: Waking Up is Hard to Do by Neil Sedaka

Prize: The Longshots DVD.

Prize: Can of Pledge Natural Beauty.

Prize: Pair of prescription glasses of winner’s choice.

Prize: Uno Flash Game, two 1lb bags of M&M's, two boxes of Orville Butter Popcorn, The Mummy DVD, Canon SD PowerShot 1000 and 400 Snapfish prints.

Prizes (2): $50 Flora2000 gift certificate

Prize: Copy of Don't Rock That Baby! The Other Advice: 46 Steps to Survive the First Year of Motherhood by Ann Tillage

Prize: $60 Mikarose gift certificate.

Prize: $10 Build-a-Bear-Workshop gift certificate.

Prize: The Blue Elephant, Tortoise vs. Hare, The Flight Before Christmas, and Goldilocks and the 3 Bears DVDs

Prizes (5): Elmo Love You! DVD

Prizes (2): The Cheetah Girls: One World DVD.

Prize: $10 Build-A-Bear gift card.

Prize: SmartShopper automated grocery list organizer.

Well Jillie Willie has teamed up with Barefoot Military Mommies to give away one of there HOTTEST aprons this year. They said this "Kitchen Couture" is flying off the shelves

Prize: Beethoven's Big Break DVD.

Prize: $100 Home Depot gift certificate

Prizes (2): $50 Pottery Barn Kids gift card.

Prizes (5): Build-A-Bear Workshop: A Friend Fur All Seasons video game for Nintendo Wii, Zenses: Ocean Edition video game for Nintendo DS and Zenses: Rainforest Edition video game for Nintendo DS.

Prize: Sony digital camera.

Prize: Autographed copy of Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Resolution: 101 Stories...Great Ideas for Your Mind, Body, and ...Wallet by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, D'ette Corona and Barbara LoMonaco

Prize: Omnitech 7" digital photo frame from Staples

Prize: $25 Spreadshirt gift certificate

Prize: Munny Journey journal

Prize: Winner's choice of Baby Kit or Child/Adult Kit

Prize: Beethoven's Big Break DVD.

Prize: 18 chocolate pieces inside a box made of chocolate, can of triple chocolate almonds, jar of blood orange marmalade, and jar of Meyer lemon marmalade from Charles Chocolates

First Prize: Mama Mia! DVD and poster.

rizes (5): Smucker’s gift basket including $25 Smucker’s Online Store gift certificate, Hot Ice Cool Sounds autographed limited edition event program, scarf with an embroidered logo, and autographed Peter Cetera CD

Prizes (2): Skype-certified Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 webcam

Prize: 12" x 18" or 18" x 12" stretched canvas frame from Photofiddle.com

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Secret Santa Leaves Gifts At Caylee's Memorial Site


An anonymous Secret Santa dropped 125 gift-wrapped toys from Bloomingdale's off at Caylee's memorial site. The Orlando Union Rescue Mission said the toys would be given to the 84 children in the organization's custody.

Just Out of Curiosity




I clicked the feedjit stats from my blog and I see I was Number 2 for what people are reading in Dallas Georgia. They seem to like my experiment article. Well that's what today is about too. Today is Day 3 of the experiment.

Once again there was a fly in the ointment. First I got up late for me which was 5:30. My daily schedule requires releasing the hounds to do their business while I feed and water them. Then I fixed oatmeal and lett the dogs back in.

Of course I had to write a couple of articles for my Thrifty Maven blog. I wrote recipes for hot chocolate, turkey stew, and turkey stirfry. I'm trying to build some content in hopes of bringing others to my site.

Then Darryl and I had to go to the dentist this morning and that took hours because Darryl had to get his tooth capped. I really felt bad for him. As for me I just had to get my teeth cleaned and the dentist said how really clean and nice my teeth were. I of course was so very proud.

This of course blew the plan to work on more blog sweeps. We stopped off at Ryans for lunch/dinner after the dentist. As always I ate too much at Ryans.

When we got home I entered five different Sears blogs. I entered one for Ben Sparks Sears giveaway, My Thoughts, Ideas, and Ramblings Sweepstakes, and the Steven Sanders sweepstakes. Each of these requested a blog entry. Each of these is for a $100 Sears gift card.

here's the blog contests I entered that didn't deal with sears today:

Prize: Choice of Lands End slippers or luggage.

Prize: WordWorld Bucket Set- House

Yes to Carrots Frosty Loves C Lip Butter Gift Set

Momsational is giving away three prize packs that include the movie soundtracks to Bolt and Camp Rock PLUS the Disney Box Office Hits compilation

Tiny Toes is written by Kelly Damron who experienced infertility first hand

Guess how many cards are in the rubber band and you could win a CloudContacts business card package

Traditional Military Style Dog Tags with Silencers. Great Mom Item!

Prize: $50 Sugarplum Dreams gift certificate.

Grand Prize: 52 free lunches at HoneyBaked Ham Co.

Prize: $25 See's Candies gift certificate

Prize: $25 Best Buy gift card.

Prizes (5): $100 Visa gift card

Prizes (2): Death Race DVD.

A Can of Pledge

Prize: Two Fun Photo CDs, Zuca Pro rolling travel bag, Okabashi travel shoes, Chilly Jilly wrap and Zobmondo!! Would You Rather…? travel game

Prize: $100 Sears gift card.

Family Fun Package: Casio 8.1MP didital camera, Sandisk memory card, Casio camera case, Emerson Karaoke System, Fisher-Price Digital Arts & Crafts Studio, Harvard electronic basketball, HoMedics footbath, One For All Universal Remote.

I'm also trying to win a DVD of Pettycoat Junction. I just loved that show and I hope I win this.

Monday, December 22, 2008

Day Three of Blog Contest Experiment


What a bad day it was supposed to start out as a good day with an easy plan. We were going to go to the library and then stop at Kroger. Easy huh? Not so easy. When Darryl and I left the house at almost eleven in the morning. When we were driving out of the community when Darryl reached down to grab his cell phone, we hit the curb and blew out not one but two tires. Getting just one of these tires took most of the day. Let me tell you how.

First we were going to walk back home. We were about a mile and a half away from home and it might not have been such a daunting thing except it was 28 degrees outside. Fortunately for us Terry saw us and offered to drive us back home. I appreciated it.

We then went to get my car so we could go back to his car and remove a tire. I felt bad for Darryl it was so cold outside he even had to borrow my gloves. Once he finally got the tire off we were off to Walmart. The Walmart that was closer to us did not have a tire center so we had to go down the road a little bit. That was a wasted trip because they couldn't help us.

We left and went to a different store called Discount Tire. They said they would help us and we should come back in an hour. Fine. We went to Kroger and bought our ham, drove back by the house to drop it off and went back to Discount Tire.

Turns out they didn't fix the tire right so we had to leave and come back. This time we went to the library in Cartersville. I was so excited because I was able to get two books I really wanted. I also picked up a few DVDs.

The whole time this is going on Darryl's flashers are on and sitting on the side of the road. So back we go and would you believe it? It still wasn't done quite right but Darryl had to go in and show them how to fix it.

We're both starving by now. Back we go to his car. We had hoped that if he could get the fixed tire on the car along with the spare tire we can get the car back up to Discount Tire to get the other tire fixed. Darryl put the first tire back on and told me to go home and fix dinner. I did that and then as soon as I put the pasta on he called to tell me his battery had died.

His Dad went to help him but didn't jump start him. So Darryl was back at home and after we ate we went to Walmart to buy jumper cables. That was another $30. Back to the car again and now it's too late to get the other tire fixed. We were able to jumpstart the car and get it home.

Tomorrow is Dentist day.

Today was day three of the blog contest experiment and I've been busy. It takes a lot of time to enter these things. I'm just trying to see if it is worth my time.

Prize: $75 Ridemakerz gift card.

Prize: $20 Macy's gift card.

Prize: $20 Starbucks gift card.

eBeautyDaily.com is giving away 5 sets of tickets to see Yes Man with Jim Carrey

Prize: 8 customized Couture Keepsakes

Coffee to Go Go Body Scrub

Prize: Cupid Apron

Prize: Sock Monkey

#1: PHOTO/MUSIC PACKAGE: Sony 8.1 MP digital camera, Apple 16GB iPod Nano, IceTech Portable Pocket Solar Battery, Belkin Car Holder/Tunedock for Apple iPod, and Jensen Universal iPod Docking Station with Full Scan Radio

$100 Sears Gift Card

Package 3: Sony 5-Disc DVD/CD Home Theater System, The Dark Knight DVD, Apple 8GB iPod Nano.

Package 1: The practical one: Black Leather Digital Photo Frame, Polaroid Digital Instant Mobile Photo Printer. PoGo, Apple 8GB iPod Nano, portable DVD player (ARV $495).

Think Local and Win

Woman talking to someone on the telephone in deskchair
People often suggest that I'm the luckiest person I know. Ah if that were only true. I believe Roy Chapin was right when he said: Luck is the time when preparation and opportunity meet.

I'm in the same boat as the rest of you when it comes to HUGE NATIONAL SWEEPSTAKES CAMPAIGNS. I've never won Publisher's Clearing House, despite the many letters that assured me my big win was on the way. I have never won the HGTV dream house. So why on earth would you listen to me about how to win contests and sweepstakes?

Well for starters let's look at some of the amazing trips that sweeping has afforded me. I've been to the Bahamas, St Lucia, Scotland, Chicago, New Orleans, Miami, Orlando, etc., etc.. These were not prizes that were fraudulent but rather sponsored by big corporations like Sony, Procter and Gamble, Kraft and others. I don't waste my time entering sweepstakes that are not legitimate and neither should you.

I would like to suggest that if you are thinking about beginning this great hobby you remember the first basic rule. This is a HOBBY. You cannot quit your job and wait for the prizes to come in. Repeat the previous phrase a few times and then proceed. You may enter many different contests and not win ANYTHING for a few months or you might win right away. I'm dogged in entering because that's what it takes to be a consistent winner.

It is far easier to win a local sweepstakes than a national one. This is because you are not competing with such a large pool of entrants. Where do you find them? Try your local newspaper. I live in the Atlanta Journal Constitution readership area. This week they are giving away a chance to experience the Atlanta's Ballet performing the Nutcracker. The AJC is also giving away tickets to the FernBank Museum of Natural History. I've been wanting to see it and of course if I won that would be a great experience to do that. Do you know someone who LOVES High School Musical or Hannah Montana? Just go to the AJC contest section to learn how to win a Hannah Montana DVD game and the High School Musical DVD game. This Christmas heel the love with the movie I'm dying to see, Marley and Me. They are giving away movie passes and one person will win a Free in-home consultation for your dog. When's the last time you saw a puppet show? The Center for Pupettry Arts and the AJC are giving away tickets to see Sam the Lovesick Snowman Entering these contests are easy and you don't have to be a subscriber. I have won several things from them and they usually require that you pick your prize up from their offices but this is not always true.

Check out your local television stations. I often watch WSBTV and they are giving away some great prizes right now. For example you can win a two night stay at Wilderness at the Smokies Waterpark Resort. OK it's a bit cold for waterparks but there's another great prize on AJC this week. You can win a contest promoting the show Lost. The grand prize includes:(1) 42" 1080p Panasonic Blu-ray Plasma Television, (1) Panasonic Blu-ray DVD Player, and (1) LOST – Season 3 box set on Blu-ray discs If you don't win the grand prize that's OK because there are ten (10) second prizes: LOST Season 3 box sets on standard DVD.

Don't forget to check out your local radio stations. I know what you're thinking. "I'll never get through." I will tell you that when I used to do the radio station call in's I was extremely successful. They aren't the only way to win from radio stations though. Some of their contests are online. I won a trip to St. Lucia and $1,500 worth of Kroger cards from a radio station online entry this year. Check out live remotes. When stations appear at a location they are often giving away tickets to upcoming events, t-shirts, cds, and dvds.

Good luck to you and if you see a contest or sweepstakes that you'd like to share with others let me know.

Sunday, December 21, 2008

Day Two of Blog Contest Entries

Today was a very busy day. I wrote three articles for my new blog thriftymaven.com. I also went grocery shopping today at Kroger and then went to CVS. I’m getting back in the groove of ECBs. Once I got home I began writing another post for the blog about the deals I was able to get at CVS.

It’s day two of the blog contest entries experiment. Here are the blog entries I did today

Item from the Holiday Gift Guide

Case of personalized Fruit Roll-Ups.

Prize: $10 Build-A-Bear Workshop gift card.

Mrs. Goodbee Talking Dollhouse

Hot Dog Condiment Holder - never used, box open. Batteries included.

The Promise and The Christmas Collection CDs.

1/2 ct. tw. diamond star necklace, 10 bags of assorted Jack's Links jerky, and Messing with Sasquatch t-shirt

Art of Shaving Power razor and travel kit, Clarisonic Skin Brush, and Oral-B Triumph 9900 Professional Care electric toothbrush

Prize: Burn After Reading DVD

$25 gift certificate to Red Lobster, Olive Garden, Bahama Breeze, or Seasons Fresh Grill

http://smartypantsmama.blogspot.com/2008/12/smarty-pants-product-of-week-girl.html

What's Free Under The Tree


Like so many others, we’ve cut way back on spending this Christmas. Then again I’ve always been able to buy super gifts that have the Wow factor for the recipient without the Oww factor for my wallet. Let me share what’s under the thrifty maven’s tree this year.

For hubby there is an 11x14 collage photo poster from Snapfish. I bought it when they were running a special for free shipping and I was able to use a credit I had for a free poster. Mr. Thrifty and I have been married for seven years now and I thought he’d appreciate a collage of happy moments we have spent together. The other gift he will be opening come Christmas day is a mouse pad which features a photo of us taken on our last vacation. This was another free credit I had earned on Snapfish and I ordered it when I ordered the poster. I was also able to take advantage of a promotion advertised on Oprah for a free 8x10 hard covered photo book. Hubby and I had won a weeks’ vacation at an all inclusive resort in St. Lucia and I used the pictures from this vacation to create a unique gift. Out of pocket for hubby this year? ZERO dollars but don’t tell him because he’ll think I spent a fortune.

Hubby has learned a thing or two because I do know that I’m receiving something from Victoria’s Secret. He’s not as good at keeping secrets and besides I had to go with him to pick my gifts out. I’m really big on shopping for gifts all year. This is a HUGE savings. Twice this year Victoria Secret sent us a coupon for a free pair of panties. They even put the panties in the cute pink bags and I’ve spied them under the tree.

The grandkids reaped HUGE benefits this year from my sweeping hobby. They received those Indiana Jones Lego sets. Altogether these Lego sets were valued at over $300. I won them though but the grandkids won’t care if I won them or bought them. Total out of pocket for their gift, $20 and that was for shipping.

Speaking of wins I sent the boys gift cards that I won. Dan, my oldest received a $100 gift card from AMC Bowling Centers. Michael received a $25 gift card from Barnes and Noble and a $25 gift card from iTunes. Total cost of their gift under a dollar for stamps.

I realize not everyone enters sweepstakes and contests but if you are interested I will be posting articles about sweeping.

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Blog Contests

I discovered Blog contests back in August. I didn't enter many because I didn't feel I had the time to enter post a comment contests. Pretty lazy huh?

I've actually won several things from blog contests including a HALL OF FAME win which I will be announcing upon the receipt of the prize.

I saw on Online-sweepstakes someone was conducting an experiment as to just how successful one could be in entering blog contests. Since I actually have time to do so I've decided to do just that.

So starting today I will see how many blog contests (if any) I can win in the next two weeks. Keep in mind I usually try to do more than just post a reply. I also try to make a blog post for extra points.

Just today I had to sit through a SECOND podcast with geeknewscentral.com. So far that's six (SIX) different entries I've done for this contest. The prize is worth it and it's one of the last HPMAGIC Giveaway contests. Wish me luck. I will say this, I've actually learned a couple of things from listening to his podcast and I have some ideas for when mine goes big time.

here's the ones I entered:

Chocolate and Chuckles

Imagine: Movie Star video game for Nintendo DS

Prize: Zack & Zoey marled yarn basic knit dog sweater.

Prize: SmartShopper

Dymo LetraTag Personal Labelmaker

The Blue Elephant, The Flight Before Christmas and Unstable Fables: Tortoise vs. Hare DVDs

$50 gift certificate to Retro Designz

Prize: Audeo Perfect Fit Earphones

http://lifeinahouseofblue.blogspot.com/2008/12/munchie-mug-giveawayreview.html

Baby K'tan carrier

Plan Toys wooden Lacing Sheep and Stacking Tree

Choice of any 32 oz ceramic juice pitcher from Emerson Creek Pottery

Mini diaper bag and matching crayon pouch from Valley Momma Boutique

Nature's Baby Organics gift bag with Shampoo, Creamy Diaper Cream, Face & Body Moisturizer and two organic sherpa washcloths

Prize: Keurig Platinum K-cup brewing system

$30 The Children's Place gift certificate

A 25 dollar gift certificate for Amazon.com

$20.00 Amazon Gift Card

Coupon Organizer/Planner

The Night Before Christmas DVD.

Saturday, December 13, 2008

A Peachy Sweep Christmas




The Best Christmas Party EVER



Years ago when I was in the husband hunting mode I read articles that would suggest that I join clubs that are focused on activities I enjoyed. Back then I was really involved with radio contests. I actually did quite well with them and went to see many concerts, won many t-shirts, albums, and even a few trips. I didn’t know of any groups that were involved with radio contests. It seemed that people like me were pretty solitary in our passion. We’d tell loved ones and friends of our wins but they simply thought we were just incredibly lucky and they’d insist that they never won anything. Sweeping was pretty much a solitary pursuit for me.

I’d dated a few guys who tolerated my hobby. I know that at least one guy I dated for a period of time used radio live spots as dates knowing that it would be hard to turn down the chance for freebies and prizes. Every week we would go to the WAVA sponsored Friday happy hour at some area restaurant/bar/hotel. There was seldom a time I walked away without at least an album or t-shirt in hand. The best part was drink specials a free eats. It warmed the cockles of my cheap heart. I knew what time the radio stations would tell you to call in and I knew how many lines each station had. Can you say speed dial? I often had the phone ringing before the contest was announced.

I’m certain there were sweeping clubs back in the 80’s and early 90’s but back then radio contests were my staple. They didn’t take much work and they provided me with a stream of prizes. I began doing snail mail sweeps in the mid 80’s but other than a few occasional small wins I didn’t seem to have much luck at them. I didn’t have the money to buy stamps and with two small sons, college, and two jobs, I didn’t have a great deal of time to devote to sweeping. Radio contests didn’t require near as much time or energy.

When I first discovered Online-Sweepstakes it was still on loopy-net. I should have become a member back then. I didn’t. Instead I would come home from work, get online and enter a few sweepstakes online. It was easy enough. Click on the link, get sent the form, complete the form, submit, and keep your fingers crossed.

My interest in sweeping never totally went away but time and circumstances often had control over how involved I was with sweeping. When I first moved to Georgia about seven years ago I was starting out with no friends. How do you go about making new friends? Some people who meet me think that I’m probably Miss Life of the Party but if you really got to know me you’d realize how difficult it was for me to approach new people and make new friends. That’s why I was surprised when Carol first reached out to me and invited me to join Atlanta Peach Sweepers.

At the time it was too far away for me. Alice had moved into our house and her illness required our attention. Sweeping at that time was a luxury and a blessing. When I moved to Cartersville, Carol again invited me to join Atlanta Peach Sweepers. Darryl and I had lots going on in our lives and although I was interested I just couldn’t commit to joining. I think I was also curious just how a sweepers club could help me. You could say it’s all about me but I think I felt as if I joined would I be a burden to such a group or a benefit for the group.

It was this year when I finally began going to the meetings. Darryl encouraged me to go. I tried arguing that I’d get lost trying to go to the meetings, that people wouldn’t like me, and the cost of gas. “Cathy, you say you want to make friends but then you don’t make any moves in that direction. Go to the meeting. I’ll go with you maybe I’ll learn something.” Ok he talked me into it.

I’m so very glad that I found Atlanta Peach Sweepers. . Down to the very last person they have been wonderful and supportive. Best of all they don’t find my addiction to be strange or a waste of time. We celebrate each others wins and share tips and tricks with others. Just like I’m kicking myself in the backside for not registering with OLS when I first found it I can’t believe I didn’t join the group when I was first invited.

This past Sunday we had our Christmas party. What an amazing party it was. Big hint to anyone coming next year: COME HUNGRY!!!!!!!!!!” There was chicken, lots of sides, and lots of desserts.

When we came in we were given these adorable name tags that were shaped like ice skates. I’ve added it to my Christmas tree this year to remember this wonderful party. After we were finished eating they distributed a nice little gift that included a scratch off lottery ticket. I didn’t win and neither did Darryl but for those few moments that ticket went unscratched I imagined winning enough to pay down some bills.

Next we had to select one of the bags that were in the front of the room. Whatever bag you touched was yours. I grabbed a bag and inside was candy (always nice), some beautifully decorated envelopes. Then I pulled out the best gift of all. Five books of stamps!!!!!!!!!!!! I almost broke down in tears. With Darryl being out of work I have to take a look at what we can and what we can’t afford. What am I willing to give up? I’d like to say that sweeping is a necessity but it’s a desire. These stamps are going to keep me in the game and I was celebrating wanting to just hug everyone there for such a great gift. Then it was Darryl’s turn to select a bag. When he brought his bag back to the table we found candy (see previous joyous remarks), decorated envelopes, and A YEAR’S SUBSCRIPTION to SWEEPSHEET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hugged Darryl for picking the right bag and I tried to keep my howling at the moon to a minimum.

Next we played Dirty Santa. Darryl had never played that and I was now an old hand at it after one game. Upon seeing the great prizes others brought I immediately felt sad that we had brought movie posters. The gifts other people brought were so much nicer and I don’t care how much the ARV was when I won them they certainly didn’t match the wonderful gifts Darryl and I won.

When I first played Dirty Santa I had remained unscathed. No one wanted the door hanger I had won and I watched as three or four gifts became “THE MOST WANTED” gift trading hands frequently. This time though I was a Santa casualty. I originally selected a bag filled with unusual Atlanta Post Cards. I was thrilled. I felt like I had won the jackpot really. Once again I was thinking WOW this will save me money when I’m sweeping. I won’t have to buy post cards for a long time. Then came the first snatch. Another sweeper came over and snatched my postcards. I had a post card of the big chicken in my hand and I was thinking about sending that to my Grandkids because I knew they’d never seen anything like that before. Darryl told me to put the postcard back in the bag and I watched it as my postcards found a new home. I made a theatrical little pouty face.

I now had to get a new prize. The idea of the movie gift card sounded good to me especially since I’d won a single ticket the other day from an online contest. I knew I really wanted to see the movie Marley and Me. I loved the book and I was hoping that the movie wouldn’t disappoint me. Then I remembered that a young kid had the movie tickets. I couldn’t take it from him even though his mom said it would be OK. “No” I said “I don’t want to go to hell.” I could really see me sitting in the depths of hell and having someone turn to me saying “So I’m in here for murder what are you here for?” “Oh me? I stole a movie gift card from some little kid.”

Instead I went up to grab another bag off the table. I was cheered up by the fact that the bag contained not only some more decorated envelopes but a book of stamps also. OH MY!!!!!!!!!!! This is my lucky day. I’m still in the game. I’m ready to sweep my way into a big win. I didn’t have that prize very long. Someone else took them and once again I selected a prize from the table. I already liked the gift because of the basket it came in. It was shaped like a heart. Inside were colored pencils, markers, and crayons. They were things I could definitely use for my classroom and I said that when I showed off the gift. I hoped I’d be able to keep this gift and I did. Darryl did come out with some invitations, decorated envelopes, and other sweep supplies. So trust me I’m not complaining. We really had a great time and I really love EVERYTHING we won.

I did feel bad at the end because as I was leaving the girl who had taken my post cards apologized to me for taking the postcards. I didn’t mean to make her feel bad. I was playing on with the game and the disappointment was fleeting and not long lasting. I didn’t mean to make her feel bad. She was playing the game and that was just fine. I was in the game, I knew the rules, and that’s just part of the game. Really I’m not holding a grudge. I hope you don’t either.

I can’t wait to see how next year is going to go and I’m so thankful for everything and everyone who is a part of Atlanta Peach Sweepers. Thank you for including Darryl and I in your group and making us feel like we are a part of something WONDERFUL.

Merlot Mom and the HP Magic Giveaway





Winning this giveaway from MerlotMom in conjunction with HP.com would touch many lives. Not just mine, not just my family, but the lives of my students. We are just one of many families who have been touched by these difficult economic times. Many people in my place could say that they deserve these computers by virtue of their great need. I would also ask that you examine the impact that these computers would make on the lives of my family and students.

I would love to donate one of these computers to my school. I have been teaching for seventeen years and I’m very proud of my students and want them to succeed. Many of my students still do not have access to current technology and winning this package would allow me to help in that respect.

I would like to share at least one of the computers with my son Michael. Michael is attending college through his service in the Army National Guard. He will soon be taking a break from his studies to be stationed in Iraq. I would love to be able to buy him a computer so he can keep in touch with his family and friends as well as take classes online.

Michael is an outstanding college student with a personal commitment to volunteerism and enhancing civic life in his community. While serving his country he embodies the true spirit of civic engagement and volunteerism as well as a commitment to academic excellence

Friday, December 12, 2008

Love For Sale


OK not that kind of love get your mind out of the gutter. I’m talking about the house. Everyone knows how sad I am about losing the house and all that it represents. As December 15th drew nearer I was getting myself used to the idea that half my house would be gone. I was trying to motivate myself to finish packing my books to send them over to the Cartersville house. I’d been delaying it but I planned to do that this weekend as well as packing my summer clothing.

Earlier this week, I’d been listening to an audio book about the Gospel of John and John’s letters. I’d gotten the book free from I-Tunes and there were famous actors and actresses reading various parts of the story. John was the longest living of the disciples and he was there for much of the early times of the church. I was reminded once again what I knew which was that the house was of this earth. Since it was of this earth its importance should be greatly diminished in my life. I should accept that I was losing it. Whether or not I would be stuck in Cartersville or move to a better house it was not going to be my decision.

We have the For Sale sign in the front yard and someone had looked at it saying he was going to put an offer on the house. Each day for a few days I would ask if we’d heard anything. The act of saying “Did we get an offer?” made the reality of what was going on more concrete. I stopped asking because after a few days I figured that no offer was forthcoming.

I had stopped mentioning the house to Darryl. I secretly entertained myself with the happily ever after movie ending for the house. You’ve seen it time and time again in the movies or on tv. The family is on the verge of losing the house when something major happens. It is unexpected and it always comes just at the last minute. I imagine myself winning the lottery and saying to Darryl “Look honey now we can stay here!” I imagine winning a contest with a large cash prize and as I sign the affy I turn to Darryl saying “I told you we wouldn’t have to leave. I knew that we were meant to be here.” I see clips of an old Little Rascals show where an old woman almost lost her home to the bank when the Little Rascals put on a show and earned enough to save her home. I remember another show where a woman was going to lose her home when she discovers some old stock she had forgotten about and discovered that it was worth a fortune. She’s able to keep her home. I remember the part of the book in the Prize Winner of Defiance Ohio when they were days away from losing their home and she wins the money to pay off the home.

The fantasies entertain me and sometimes comfort me or make me hopeful but my mind is becoming more in sync with reality. We are going to lose this house and it will no longer be my home.

Then I got home and Darryl greeted me with some news about the house. “Did I tell you about the house?” Like I said I haven’t asked him about the status of the house for several days. I didn’t steal myself for what he was about to tell me. It was if I already knew the answer and I was ready to hear it. “No you didn’t. Did that guy make an offer? When do we need to be out?”

I almost didn’t hear his answer. That’s because the video began to flash in my head “We’ve saved the house. You can live here forever” began to play as I half listened to his answer. “The bank says that since we have the house up for sale we can stay here until March. I’ve cancelled the moving van for December 15th. “ WHAT????????????? I was lost for a moment. Did dream that sequence? It couldn’t be real. I dared break the moment because I knew I needed to be in the moment and really understand what was happening. “We can stay here until March? Why is that?’ He then explained that the bank can’t really work with us as far as lowering anything until he gets a job. In the meantime they don’t want a foreclosure on the books or a vacant house or a delinquent loan on the books. It’s better to allow us to remain in the home and try to sell it. They feel it’s easier to sell it if we are in the home and they’d get back more of their investment if we sold it than if it went into foreclosure or if we gave it back to them.

I looked out the window of the loft. The lights twinkled down below and into the distance. Does this mean I can decorate for Christmas? “Sure. If you want to do that this weekend I’ll help you.”

We talked a bit more about the house and about how I’d already begun separating myself from the house and about how for him the house was just a house. He told me that it didn’t matter where we were we could always be happy. He said that there would be other houses and that this wasn’t the end of the world. This is true. I’m just thankful, just grateful that I can stay in the house for the holidays. I don’t’ know if I dare dream that this is some signal that things are going to get better now that I’ve accepted where we are. I do know that for now I am still in the house. It is still up for sale and perhaps someone will buy my house.

I am grateful that I have more time to get my thoughts and feelings in order. I am grateful that I have someone who is there for me. Some people lose it all but I still have so very much to be thankful for and maybe that’s the lesson that I need to draw from this whole experience.

A Peachy Sweep Christmas




Years ago when I was in the husband hunting mode I read articles that would suggest that I join clubs that are focused on activities I enjoyed. Back then I was really involved with radio contests. I actually did quite well with them and went to see many concerts, won many t-shirts, albums, and even a few trips. I didn’t know of any groups that were involved with radio contests. It seemed that people like me were pretty solitary in our passion. We’d tell loved ones and friends of our wins but they simply thought we were just incredibly lucky and they’d insist that they never won anything. Sweeping was pretty much a solitary pursuit for me.

I’d dated a few guys who tolerated my hobby. I know that at least one guy I dated for a period of time used radio live spots as dates knowing that it would be hard to turn down the chance for freebies and prizes. Every week we would go to the WAVA sponsored Friday happy hour at some area restaurant/bar/hotel. There was seldom a time I walked away without at least an album or t-shirt in hand. The best part was drink specials a free eats. It warmed the cockles of my cheap heart. I knew what time the radio stations would tell you to call in and I knew how many lines each station had. Can you say speed dial? I often had the phone ringing before the contest was announced.

I’m certain there were sweeping clubs back in the 80’s and early 90’s but back then radio contests were my staple. They didn’t take much work and they provided me with a stream of prizes. I began doing snail mail sweeps in the mid 80’s but other than a few occasional small wins I didn’t seem to have much luck at them. I didn’t have the money to buy stamps and with two small sons, college, and two jobs, I didn’t have a great deal of time to devote to sweeping. Radio contests didn’t require near as much time or energy.

When I first discovered Online-Sweepstakes it was still on loopy-net. I should have become a member back then. I didn’t. Instead I would come home from work, get online and enter a few sweepstakes online. It was easy enough. Click on the link, get sent the form, complete the form, submit, and keep your fingers crossed.

My interest in sweeping never totally went away but time and circumstances often had control over how involved I was with sweeping. When I first moved to Georgia about seven years ago I was starting out with no friends. How do you go about making new friends? Some people who meet me think that I’m probably Miss Life of the Party but if you really got to know me you’d realize how difficult it was for me to approach new people and make new friends. That’s why I was surprised when Carol first reached out to me and invited me to join Atlanta Peach Sweepers.

At the time it was too far away for me. Alice had moved into our house and her illness required our attention. Sweeping at that time was a luxury and a blessing. When I moved to Cartersville, Carol again invited me to join Atlanta Peach Sweepers. Darryl and I had lots going on in our lives and although I was interested I just couldn’t commit to joining. I think I was also curious just how a sweepers club could help me. You could say it’s all about me but I think I felt as if I joined would I be a burden to such a group or a benefit for the group.

It was this year when I finally began going to the meetings. Darryl encouraged me to go. I tried arguing that I’d get lost trying to go to the meetings, that people wouldn’t like me, and the cost of gas. “Cathy, you say you want to make friends but then you don’t make any moves in that direction. Go to the meeting. I’ll go with you maybe I’ll learn something.” Ok he talked me into it.

I’m so very glad that I found Atlanta Peach Sweepers. . Down to the very last person they have been wonderful and supportive. Best of all they don’t find my addiction to be strange or a waste of time. We celebrate each others wins and share tips and tricks with others. Just like I’m kicking myself in the backside for not registering with OLS when I first found it I can’t believe I didn’t join the group when I was first invited.

This past Sunday we had our Christmas party. What an amazing party it was. Big hint to anyone coming next year: COME HUNGRY!!!!!!!!!!” There was chicken, lots of sides, and lots of desserts.

When we came in we were given these adorable name tags that were shaped like ice skates. I’ve added it to my Christmas tree this year to remember this wonderful party. After we were finished eating they distributed a nice little gift that included a scratch off lottery ticket. I didn’t win and neither did Darryl but for those few moments that ticket went unscratched I imagined winning enough to pay down some bills.

Next we had to select one of the bags that were in the front of the room. Whatever bag you touched was yours. I grabbed a bag and inside was candy (always nice), some beautifully decorated envelopes. Then I pulled out the best gift of all. Five books of stamps!!!!!!!!!!!! I almost broke down in tears. With Darryl being out of work I have to take a look at what we can and what we can’t afford. What am I willing to give up? I’d like to say that sweeping is a necessity but it’s a desire. These stamps are going to keep me in the game and I was celebrating wanting to just hug everyone there for such a great gift. Then it was Darryl’s turn to select a bag. When he brought his bag back to the table we found candy (see previous joyous remarks), decorated envelopes, and A YEAR’S SUBSCRIPTION to SWEEPSHEET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hugged Darryl for picking the right bag and I tried to keep my howling at the moon to a minimum.

Next we played Dirty Santa. Darryl had never played that and I was now an old hand at it after one game. Upon seeing the great prizes others brought I immediately felt sad that we had brought movie posters. The gifts other people brought were so much nicer and I don’t care how much the ARV was when I won them they certainly didn’t match the wonderful gifts Darryl and I won.

When I first played Dirty Santa I had remained unscathed. No one wanted the door hanger I had won and I watched as three or four gifts became “THE MOST WANTED” gift trading hands frequently. This time though I was a Santa casualty. I originally selected a bag filled with unusual Atlanta Post Cards. I was thrilled. I felt like I had won the jackpot really. Once again I was thinking WOW this will save me money when I’m sweeping. I won’t have to buy post cards for a long time. Then came the first snatch. Another sweeper came over and snatched my postcards. I had a post card of the big chicken in my hand and I was thinking about sending that to my Grandkids because I knew they’d never seen anything like that before. Darryl told me to put the postcard back in the bag and I watched it as my postcards found a new home. I made a theatrical little pouty face.

I now had to get a new prize. The idea of the movie gift card sounded good to me especially since I’d won a single ticket the other day from an online contest. I knew I really wanted to see the movie Marley and Me. I loved the book and I was hoping that the movie wouldn’t disappoint me. Then I remembered that a young kid had the movie tickets. I couldn’t take it from him even though his mom said it would be OK. “No” I said “I don’t want to go to hell.” I could really see me sitting in the depths of hell and having someone turn to me saying “So I’m in here for murder what are you here for?” “Oh me? I stole a movie gift card from some little kid.”

Instead I went up to grab another bag off the table. I was cheered up by the fact that the bag contained not only some more decorated envelopes but a book of stamps also. OH MY!!!!!!!!!!! This is my lucky day. I’m still in the game. I’m ready to sweep my way into a big win. I didn’t have that prize very long. Someone else took them and once again I selected a prize from the table. I already liked the gift because of the basket it came in. It was shaped like a heart. Inside were colored pencils, markers, and crayons. They were things I could definitely use for my classroom and I said that when I showed off the gift. I hoped I’d be able to keep this gift and I did. Darryl did come out with some invitations, decorated envelopes, and other sweep supplies. So trust me I’m not complaining. We really had a great time and I really love EVERYTHING we won.

I did feel bad at the end because as I was leaving the girl who had taken my post cards apologized to me for taking the postcards. I didn’t mean to make her feel bad. I was playing on with the game and the disappointment was fleeting and not long lasting. I didn’t mean to make her feel bad. She was playing the game and that was just fine. I was in the game, I knew the rules, and that’s just part of the game. Really I’m not holding a grudge. I hope you don’t either.

I can’t wait to see how next year is going to go and I’m so thankful for everything and everyone who is a part of Atlanta Peach Sweepers. Thank you for including Darryl and I in your group and making us feel like we are a part of something WONDERFUL.

An Island Life Christmas


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I love the smells of Christmas! Fresh cookies baking and a natural Christmas tree

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Has The Body Of Caylee Anthony Been Found?



The skeletal remains of a small child were found Thursday near the home of missing Orlando girl Caylee Anthony's family.

Sheriff's Office spokesman Jim Solomons said that a utility worker found the body at 9:32 AM Thursday in a wooded area less than a half-mile from the house Caylee lived in with her grandparents and mother.

The water meter reader reportedly picked up the bag and a small skull rolled out that sources say strongly resembled that of a little girl.

Isn't it ironic that a day after Cindy and George Anthony appeared on Larry King Live trying to drum up support for the theory that Caylee was still alive and recently sighted in California; the skeletal remains of a little girl was found.

According to reports, duct tape was found around the mouth area of the child's skull.

Imagine, this child was carelessly tossed into this area as though she were nothing more than trash.

Please keep Caylee Anthony in your prayers!

I Actually Made It To The Second Round




I have been entering the HP Blogger Magic Giveaway. I've entered about four of them. One of them involved entering a work of art and it had to include the word gadgeteering. Well there were 137 entries and I made it all the way to the second round as part of 42 entries. I didn't make it to the third round. Hey I'm thrilled considering I can't draw that's great.

Check it out here: First Round Mine is the fourth row second picture in the Second round This time my picture is in row five and the third picture over. I didn't make the final ten. They did pick a winner and I thought it was a good pick.

Many of these contests require you do multiple steps. I'm hoping this will wear some people down. For example in two of them I had to create and post something to youtube. When those contests are over I will post what I entered.

I'm really curious as to how many OLSers are actually entering these things. I guess because the prize is so big I'm willing to do multiple things but I know not everyone is willing to do this. Wish me luck.

Here's more information about the http://www.hp.com/united-states/campaigns/blogger-magic/

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

George And Cindy Anthony Appear On Larry King Show



Where is Caylee? So many questions and one has to ask why is Larry King not asking at least one or two of the obvious ones.

Why were there no questions about the lies that Casey told law enforcement? What about the smell of death in the car? Why is Nancy Grace fault, Zenaida Fernandez Gonzalez's fault, Leonard Padilla, but Casey bears no responsibility for Caylee's disappearance? Then again, I suppose the fact that George and Cindy are being interviewed by Larry King means that they won't get anything but softball questions.

Monday, December 8, 2008

HP's Magic Giveaway

I have taught High School Business classes for almost eighteen years now. My school has a diverse population and more almost three-quarters of them are eligible for free or reduced lunch.

We can’t afford to keep up with the technology that our students need to be exposed to. Many of my students do not have access to technology at home. When I heard about HP’s Magic Giveaway, I was so excited because I felt this would help my students in such a major way. Imagine $6,000 in HP technology for my classroom.

I know I certainly could use a new computer. This summer I plan to take some online courses to get my graduate degree in Special Education. With so many of our students mainstreamed into the regular education classes I feel that furthering my education won’t just help me but help the students that need the most help. Of course I could also use the computer to create interactive and exciting lesson plans.

I would share my computer with my husband who recently lost his job. He is an individual who is listed as a statistic in the mass layoffs you’ve been reading about in the paper. He would be able to use the computer to research job openings and compose cover letters and resumes that will hopefully get him re-employed.

My youngest son is now in the Army and getting ready to leave for Iraq. Over the past several years I’ve had students leave for the same destination. It is for this reason I have been involved with the Adopt a Soldier Program. We send a goody box to soldiers once a month as well as cards and letters. I would love to gift him with one of the computers so he can keep in touch with friends and family.

So thank you moosh in indy for letting me know about this great contest Be sure to check out my you tube video about this giveaway and how special it would make the holidays for the people you see in the video.

Tidings of Good Cheer on Evening Mist Drive

My neighbors hosted a Christmas Ornament swap. I’d never been to one but it sounded like something so simple and sweet. When I had first moved into my home I had imagined hosting a cookie exchange. I’d read about them countless times in those ladies magazines I’d read that I was excited as to actually being able to hold one myself. In my mind I imagined serving cookies, cupcakes, and finger sandwiches with eggnog. EVERYONE would love my cookies and ask for the recipes because they tasted so good. My house would be decorated in a festive manner and Christmas music would be playing softly in the background. Watch out Better Homes and Gardens I’m coming your way. Always the most amazing thing in my imaginary party was how inexpensively I’d be able to do all this. Sales and coupons would help with the cost of the food and of course I’d finally take out the paper products I’d bought from the previous Christmas.

That first Christmas in our Evening Mist Home I was busy getting ready for a visit to see my family. I decided instead to bake cookies and Darryl and I delivered them door to door. This Christmas though I knew we weren’t going to be able to throw that party. This is why I was excited about attending our neighbor’s party. Many of the ladies from the neighborhood showed up and it was bittersweet to see them all.

Terri’s home was beautiful. On the front porch she had a decorated Christmas tree and greenery on the door. I hadn’t put my tree up because I knew we would soon be moving. It seemed pointless to haul it all out just to put it back in a box.

Once inside she had two fireplaces going and a table set with a beautiful Christmas centerpiece. As people came in the door we placed our covered dishes on the table and handed Terri our ornaments. We then went to the kitchen where she offered us wine, soda, and eggnog punch. She told us she hadn’t spiked the punch but pointed out that we could with the liquor she’d made available.

I was taking it all in. She had Christmas themed hand-painted wine goblets. She had out white glass plates golden rims instead of the paper plates I might have used. Everywhere you looked her house said Christmas. In the background Christmas tunes played while we talked.

I’ve usually had one or two good friends at a time. I’ve never been a part of one of these circles of good female friends. It was quite an experience for me to be a part of a circle of women in such varied phases of their lives. One was very pregnant. One just found out she was pregnant. One just celebrated her twentieth wedding anniversary this summer. One woman was telling us about how her kids now all had driver’s licenses and one told us about an accomplishment she had just won. Look how much I’ve missed I thought. Look at how much I was going to miss.

Darryl of course was the topic of conversation for a little while. Has he found a job yet? Has he started looking yet? One of my neighbors volunteered that her husband had been out of work when they first moved there. It had taken him a year to get a job. She said he knew several headhunters and she’d email me their information. If I didn’t hear from her in a few days I should email her and let her know. I almost cried. I just couldn’t believe how much hope was spurred by those words.

I’d brought ice cream from Edy’s with me. It was one of the ice creams we had won earlier this year. I also brought some Edy’s cups, napkins, and spoons along with some chocolate syrup. Others had brought some wonderful amazing things. I had made the mistake of eating before I went. I saw all the tempting tastes and realized that my diet was official on its way to hell in a hand basket. There were cheeses I’d never seen before. One of them was a cheese with cranberries in it. Another was a cheese that had a layer of pesto. I LOVE cheese! When I worked at the deli I tried so many different kinds of cheeses. It was a real effort for me not to fill up a huge plate with samples from everyone’s dish. Instead I put a taste of each on my plate and filled a glass of white wine.

After dinner we played Dirty Santa. There are other names for the game like Yankee Swap, The Present Game, White Elephant Exchange, Rob Your Neighbor, Cut Throat Christmas, The Grinch Game, and Steal-a-Thon. If you are not familiar with the game let me tell you how it is played. Basically everyone brings a gift. The hostess will set a dollar amount and perhaps a suggestion about the gift. For example, Friday’s party was an ornament exchange and the dollar amount was $8 or less.

At the beginning of the party gifts are set on a table. Each person gets a number and this dictates when they will be able to select a gift. The person who drew number one goes first. That person must select a gift and unwrap it to show everyone what they have selected. The person who is number two can either steal that gift or select a new gift from the table. If Number two steals number one’s gift then number one gets to select another gift. The person who is number three can steal from either the first or second person or select a new gift. From then on the choice is either stealing or getting a new gift. In both games I played if a gift had been stolen three times then it belonged to the last person who stole it. You do not have the option of stealing back your gift from the person who just stole it from you.

Let the stealing begin. I was the second person and I didn’t like the idea of picking. I was happy to get the snowman door hanger and I figured that no one would try to steal my present. Some of the other ornaments were quite beautiful. Some were not ornaments like my door hanger and the snowman serving plate. The snowman plate got stolen a couple of times before it finally made its way back to the woman who originally selected it. Mine was one of the last ornaments to be selected. I had simply thrown it in the bag without tissue. When it was selected no one stole it. I have no clue if they liked it or not. I thought it was pretty. It was a blue star. Two of the ornaments were from Michelle’s were I bought mine. I recognized them because I had thought about buying the same ones.

After the Dirty Santa game we talked about the New Years Eve progressive supper. People would go from house to house each providing a part of the meal. I’ve heard of them but never been a part of one. They mentioned that they needed someone to bring salad and bread. I almost volunteered but I really don’t know where I will be on New Years or what I will be doing.

I was the second one to leave the party and when I got home Darryl chided me that I must have had a good time because I was gone three hours. I’d hemmed and hawed about going. Even at the last minute I wanted to say I just didn’t want to go. I just kept having those awful flashbacks to earlier Christmas parties. In the end, I’m glad I went. I did have a good time. Maybe one day I will have a cookie exchange. Maybe one time I will be a part of what I experienced at that party.