tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226096227519203982024-02-19T02:16:58.218-06:00Mommy TalesJust a sahm of 6 trying to make it through the day. I homeschool some of the kids while trying to find the floor most days - it's a never ending battle!Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-47411647645222634062013-02-26T16:48:00.003-06:002013-02-26T16:48:35.100-06:00Yikes!!So much for good intentions! Every time I plan out posts and how I can get things done, something happens. Since I rely on my hot spot, it turns out it starts to act wonky. The hubs says it's when it's windy out that it acts up. I think it knows I want to get stuff done! lol<br />
I was planning a post on suicide, since Mindy McCready and Mark Balelo both were in the news last week. I was going over the post in my head and was okay with posting it, but can't seem to bring myself to it this week. Too much going on and on my mind, I guess.<br />
While researching adult companies to rep for, a friend posted her company's awesome sign on deal. I knew it was a good company and she rocks the biz, so I signed up!I am now a Passion Parties Diva! I also signed on for Origami Owl. Well, once I get the email with my info to sign on, I will. I was on the waiting list and got an email yesterday saying it was time! Pretty quick! I want to call about the Market Days here to set up a booth. See about getting the word out that I do a few direct sales. When we walk around I only see Avon, Mary Kay, Scentsy, Tastefully Simple, and Jamberry. Not sure they have others down here. Well, I have seen it works! here also, and I do that as well, but I'm not as active there.<br />
Finally paid off our old electric bill. Should get off of the hubs' credit for March, so his numbers will go up again. I've been doing the house search thing like crazy. Every day, every night. I'll have 3-7 windows open. Email, facebook, sweepstakes, craigslist and realtor.com. Redid our search critieria to a 2 bedroom with at least 1.5 baths. If it's cheap enough, we can do 2 bedrooms. We can add on down here pretty easily, and that'll give us more living space. I found a good one up by his work, 2 bedrooms, shed, with a guest house (or workspace) on 4 lots. Definitely want to get in that one to check it out! If we can buy that one with $0 down, we'd have money for furniture and the trip to PA the kids and I want to make later.<br />
I still have to contact the one bag sale place. I haven't seen any mention on their web page, and I didn't sign up for their mailing since I didn't have an address at that time. I do the best at that sale, and am really hoping they have it again this year! My kids need clothes (as do I), and I'm looking forward to starting an online resale boutique. We bought a sewing machine at a yard sale, and I'm hoping the hubs teaches us how it use the thing! lol Then we can make dresses for the littles, sleep pants, shorts and more. I've been picking up fabric remnants that Walmart has on sale, just waiting for the time we can get sewing.<br />
Trying to put off organizing my clothes. I should get it done so we can bring in some of the clean stuff taking up room in my truck. Just so not in the mood to refold it all and get it back in the cubbies. Really looking forward to having a closet and dresser again! It's the little things really.<br />
Better get busy before the hubs pulls up. While I managed to get most of the pressing things done, I want to finish off my list. Maybe then I can plan a day out tomorrow without feeling guilty!Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-52608537161520873072013-02-19T14:27:00.000-06:002013-02-19T14:27:26.812-06:00ACK!!!This past week and a half have been crazy!! I normally pick a Saturday or Sunday for us to move since we need the hubs' work truck to move our grill. When I went to pay for another week at the state park though, I was told they were booked up. So I had to quick call around and find a new place. Not the easiest in the middle of a south Texas winter when all of the winter Texans have come down! I found us a place (way cheaper!), when the one ranger came to let me know they had a cancellation. Thanks, but I'd rather pocket the almost $400 a month difference!<br />
That Saturday we had the Mardi Gras parade for hubs' work, then lunch with the boss' and coworkers. After that we did some shopping - always needed after moving. Basically a lost day!<br />
Since we spent Saturday running around our wash had piled up and was waiting for us! Off to the laundromat. Sundays are always busy there, and that day was no exception. We left later than planned, and people let their wash and were late getting back to move it to the dryers, so wash day was longer than we planned. Oh well! We still have to get organized in here to get it all away and out of my truck!<br />
Monday we had my oldest here for a bit. The kids and I visited her at her work, and had chips and salsa while waiting for her. Poor thing was exhausted and ended up falling asleep on Blondie. Had to wait for hubby (I have the only RV key right now) so I could take her home. Tuesday our one cat (only 2 years old) just laid down and died. *sigh* Poor Bug comes running back to me, telling me Sherbert is just lying there and won't move. We have no clue why he died, and I'm really missing him, as he was the one who would come back to lay with me while I was on the computer. Such a snuggle bug! Wednesday I was out of commission with a headache. Not quite my usual debilitating migraine, but enough that I did nothing and tried to sleep it off. Thursday was Valentine's Day, so of course, the hubs was pissy. Not like we ever really celebrate that day - I prefer the day after when chocolate is half off! Friday was payday, so the kids and I were able to stock up on some food. Saturday we had clear, so we figured yard sales! Stopped at the one RV park, walked around their sale, go to the truck and it won't start. Now we just replaced the alternator, and the transmission is getting iffy (needs a flush and new filter). Sometimes it doesn't go into gear right and then won't start. Nope, sounds like the starter. CRIPES!!! We still don't know many people down here, so he called the only person he does know who knows cars. While waiting hubs called looking for a starter to make sure they were in stock and a price. *sigh* While we're waiting, we notice next door (another RV park) is having a car show. Turns out it was only 5 or 6 cars, and a craft show! So the kids and I walked around, I got a few cards for things I want to buy (thinking I was going to shell out money for a starter, I wasn't shopping) and when I got back they were working on the beast. Turns out it was a $5 part and we're on our way again! Finally something going my way!! After that, we hit a few more yard sales (most were packed up by then), and decided to drive around looking at some houses I saw on realtor.com. Good thing we did since it narrowed down our list a bit. We were invited to a birthday party for their daughter on Sunday, so that's where we ended up Sunday. We also managed to pay storage, see I'm going to have fun dealing with mold when we move and clean out storage, and do some shopping. Hubby got to play COD Sunday, so he was happy!<br />
That brings us to yesterday, when I was trying to catch up on stuff and signed up to be a Passion Parties Rep and get on the waiting list for Origami Owl.<br />
While scrolling through my facebook feed I notice my oldest was in a music video (Spanish song). I'm friends with her agency and they posted the link. Really good. She's basically the main person in the video, except the band. Here's to this leading to other good parts for her!!<br />
Ok, I think I bored y'all enough for one day! Hoping to get back tomorrow and talk about some suicides that have happened in the news lately.Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-74836973605097815222013-02-07T17:49:00.002-06:002013-02-07T17:49:38.979-06:00Thursday - I lost a day!Don't you hate when you do a blog post and the computer shuts down because of an update? One you can't postpone? It happened to me yesterday and I just wasn't up to redoing the post. Sorry! Not that it was anything earth shattering, but it was a nice post.
I finally finished our federal taxes. The place I was going to use wanted to charge me. Really? For a simple form that noone else charges for? I don't think so! So off I went to H&R Block online. Put in numbers, added kids, and tahdah! Done! Now to hope everything is ok and goes through in time. I do know the hubs' birthday has been wrong or them for some time, but I remembered and put it in "wrong" until he can get his birth certificate, and whatever else he needs and hit the Social Security office. I mean, just one year doing taxes and it kept being sent back. I tried to explain to people that his birthday isn't going to change from end of month to beginning, but you know, red tape is always right! lol
I managed to write out 2 business plans yesterday, now to type them up, save them and upload them. Need fingers crossed, candles lit and spells cast for good luck!
Almost found us a place to move, but they didn't have a bathhouse. So no new RV park. There is a mobile for rent, but I'm not sure about the park it's in. I think it's the one that kinda scared us as we drove past. You know the kind. Looks run down and iffy on the people living there. Then there's an apartment, but the hubs would have a longer drive in to work and may affect his on call status. We *need* that overtime he gets from being on call, so that may also be a no go. *sigh* Just doesn't seem to be much available right now, and I desperately need to get out of here. Guess it's back to searching!
I'm planning on getting some items to review and do giveaways. I'd prefer to be in a place where I have an actual work space, so it may be put off for a little bit. I'd love to do some books - whether they want to do just the book I review or do a basket or something else. If the oldest can get me on wordpress, that would be great - just don't know how easy it is to actually post there. I downloaded it, now it's missing! Not sure where it went or where to look! I'm not a computer literate person, that's for sure! I need something that I can log in, type up my post, spell check, and post. Nothing crazy with html or other computer jargon needed!
Ok, off to work on my big ideas!
What are your long range goals? Anyone want to be self employed? Own rental property? Long vacation?Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-11138115380445955122013-02-05T14:59:00.001-06:002013-02-05T14:59:54.432-06:00Yikes!!It's Tuesday all ready?? At least I managed to get into town yesterday. Hit the PO and picked up a few groceries to get us through the rest of the week. Also picked up my oldest and brought her out for a visit for a bit. Kids were happy to see her!! I should have gotten the picture of the littlest 2 lying with/on her while watching a movie. Too cute!<br />
So far I've managed to stay caught up on mail, but doing the contests is taking up time. Wish we had another computer, I could put my oldest little to work for one site. She enjoys it, and she gets her work done early enough to be able to help.<br />
Still no luck on the housing front, although I may have found us a different park to stay - cheaper and with included electric and cable. I'll have to try to contact them again so we can move this weekend. They just need a bathhouse (for showering), since we can't use our shower - smaller than a closet in there! Would also be nice if there was room for the kids to set up their tent. They enjoy sleeping in there and having that space to stretch out.<br />
Today is the day! I'm going to attempt to do our taxes. *sigh* The federal is pretty easy, but we did a cross country move. Luckily we let our old state June 30th, so exactly half of the year, and that job stopped then as well. Although he was getting vacation pay for a few weeks after we left. Hmmmm. Whatever! I'm not stressing over any of that, just going to file online so we can get our money.<br />
I gave my oldest my info to pretty up my pages here, so I'm hoping she can get to that quick. I'm looking at joining in on a giveaway or two, and possibly doing one of my own. I just don't want people stopping by now, since my page is pretty ugly:(<br />
If I had the energy I'd post some clip art to go with my post today, but I'm drained. I think this rv living and trying to deal with landlords down here is just draining whatever energy I have today. Luckily my kids are taking it pretty well. They think o it as an adventure, which is good since I hope to upgrade the rv for vacations. This one will be dismantled and sold for scrap (no matter that we won't get much out of it), since it's leaky, moldy and old. Time to put it to rest!<br />
I think that's enough of my ramblings for today. I have a few more surveys and contests to do yet, and I want to start on the taxes before the hubs gets home.<br />
Do you all do your own taxes or go to someone? Have you ever traveled in an rv? Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-24187247940471799292013-02-02T17:33:00.001-06:002013-02-02T17:33:48.502-06:00Lazy SaturdayWe're having a lazy Saturday here at the state park. Funds are low with the big bills coming out of this pay, so trying not to waste gas. They did get the tent back up - it was knocked around during a wind storm here. Hubs was able to fix some of the posts that were damaged, so the kids have their space to play and room to spread out to sleep.<br />
I managed to catch up on my mail today! When we were in the wooded area we didn't have internet. You can only imagine the build up! I do several click to earns, surveys, I follow blogs, plus I do contests. Now I have some contests saved (the dailies), all click to earns and surveys are completed, and a few blogs were saved since they're offering blog opportunities for giveaways. Let's hope I can keep it this way now!<br />
My oldest will be coming by Monday - I hope! She's the one I've been waiting on to help me pretty up my blogs. Get the top banner, side buttons and avatars for the family put on here. Right now it looks so *blah*.<br />
I managed to get a mailbox here in town. Having to run in to my friend's house every week was a killer! It ate up my afternoon (and gas), and I fell behind on what I needed to do. Always nice to see her and the baby staying there, but we're hoping to move a bit closer in a bit.<br />
The housing situation hasn't changed. Still in the rv that has issues - like leaks and mold. *sigh* I'll be doing our taxes soon, plus I'm hoping to work on the hubs' credit reports. I found a site that has templates or letters to send to the bureaus. There's the letter for the "looks" which can hurt our score, and letter when you're disputing a claim on your report. Now to find someone who can print them for me or get a cheap printer. I *have* a good printer in storage, but I owe him money, and we put it in the back corner. Behind a gazillion or so boxes! Maybe my oldest can pick one up cheap on her way out here along with a pack of paper. Then I can get it all done in one day and plan a trip to the PO for stamps and to get a few other things mailed out. Would be nice if people would work quickly and get things done. I know his credit took major hits when we were house hunting. It seems like the mortgage people wanted to check his credit all.the.time. Not good for your numbers! So now I get to do letters and hope for the best. Maybe we can buy a house instead of rent. It's going to take some planning, but I think we can get it done. I'll be posting about our second foray into Texas home ownership!<br />
While it's a long shot, I have a hope things work out in another direction. I'm not ready to give details yet, but I do promise to let you know what it is, and the steps I took. Hoping to help someone else thinking about taking the same step!<br />
Anyone have any goals for this year? Not resolutions. Goals. And a manageable breakdown to accomplish them? I'll be posting mine next time!Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-54747269229602727072013-01-30T18:01:00.001-06:002013-01-30T18:01:26.249-06:00Hump Day!I've made it halfway through the week! When a week starts with a headache, it's always a bit of a gamble. We didn't get much done this week, but at least my headache is totally gone now.
Due to the high winds, the kids took down their tent today. Unfortunately I think one of the poles broke, so I don't know if e can put it up again. It's where they like to go to read, play and chill since there's room in there to spread out. Not sure we can buy any of the poles to replace what broke.
Hoping business picks up for hubby, but with the temps at a nice 60/70 range, people don't need heat or their air running. Luckily they have some business accounts with scheduled maintenance. The one new guy keeps being sent home early, I'm just glad hubby isn't losing too many hours right now! This is the perfect time for people to schedule cleanings and routine maintenance on their systems. Before the harsh weather hits and you have to wait.
Found out the one direct sales company I was with has me as inactive until I pay $99 to re-up. Since I can start a business for that in direct sales, I think I'll pass. It wasn't a good fit for me anyway, so I'll move on. Looking into some other options right now.
My email really piled up when we were without internet for a week! I had just cleared out my inbox right before that, and managed to spend some time last night weeding out some outdated contests. Hoping i can finish the click to earns and surveys this week, so I'll just have daily mail to deal with every day.
Looks like the hubs is home. Have to figure out supper!
What direct sales companies do you think do the best business? Which do you think would do well as an online business a well as in person? Does anyone here do any direct sales?Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-130293724734418782013-01-29T17:13:00.000-06:002013-01-30T01:49:54.655-06:00I've decided!I think I may be certifiable, but I've decided to jump in and join other bloggers with giveaways! Now I really need to learn how to pretty up my page, add pictures and all of that good stuff.<br />
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I was planning on doing posts this weekend, then Saturday we ended up at the laundromat longer than planned and Sunday was a headache kind of day. *sigh* So nothing I planned to do actually got done. In an rv that tends to be problematic. We still need to sort the clothes we have put away, then sort the clothes we just washed. <br />
One thing I've managed to do is work on a list of blog topics. If I'm going to be blogging daily (or close to it), I need to have things to talk about. For people who know me, it's shocking that I would need a list! lol I can pretty much talk any one's ear off, but I don't want to bore people and chase them away!<br />
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Today is such a windy day here! Being on the beach makes it a bit worse, and this rv is rocking! Otherwise it would be a gorgeous south Texas day! Almost 70 out, but these winds will knock over a person!<br />
If anyone has a book or product they'd like me to review, just let me know! I won a bunch of books I'd like to read and review (for the site I won them from), but I will put my friends goodies ahead of them. :) <br />
One of my future posts will be about going to the laundromat as opposed to wash at home. Which is more cost effective? I really can't say right now since I can't do wash here, so I can't take the bills and see if there's a change in electric and water. Of course, there's also the time issue. If you get to the laundromat and have to wait on machines, that cuts into your time. We had 2 weeks worth of clothes to wash, and had to wait on machines, so our trip took a bit longer than usual. Normally we can be in and out in under 3 hours. Then we drive around and see if there's any yard sales or stop at the store if we need to pick up something.<br />
Is there anything you'd like me to talk about? Nothing political or religious please! Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-60108517570874543942013-01-22T15:42:00.001-06:002013-01-22T15:42:21.014-06:00What day is it?Yes, it's been one of those weeks, and according to the computer it's only Tuesday! Since I'm using a prepay hot spot, one of the issues is running our of GB. It happened Friday before I realized it and didn't get a new card until late Saturday. We went out as a family Saturday (for the first time in forever!). Stopped at the "Trade Market" which is basically a large indoor flea market similar to one back home. Tried to find the 2 craft stores (craft consignment stores, not Michael's or the like). Turns out one must have closed it's doors and the other one we missed it being open by minutes. *sigh* Story of my life! By this time we're getting hungry, so we decide to go out for supper. While Corpus has a lot of options, most are the chain restaurants, and quite frankly, not impressive. So I talk hubs into a place I took our oldest for her birthday. They don't have a great selection of food, but their burger was good and it's on the beach, so the view is amazing! We get seated and have to split up between 2 tables separated by a pole (they called the tables surfboards). Ok, no problem. We get menus and our drink order was taken fine. Get our drinks. Waiting...waiting...waiting. Like I said, they have maybe 15 or so supper entrees. The waiter who took our drink order is standing right over there, looks STRAIGHT at us, goes and starts to clear a table. Not in the mood people! I go to the hostess and ask for our check for drinks since we can't get anyone to take our order. We're leaving. I show her who our server was and she told me we don't have to pay for drinks since we didn't eat. Ok. The hubs tells me in the truck that the table was actually separated by servers as well. The girl who had my side (me and the oldest little on one side, hubs and the rest on the other), was having a fit cuz she didn't want to wait on us. WTF? We tip according to the check. Yes, we may have 6 in our party, but we've never stiffed a tip. After leaving Corpus, we went to the diner the hubs wanted. I thought it looked closed since there were signs in the windows, but he said they were adding a patio. All righty then. Turns out they had a fire. Yes, our luck doesn't change people! lol We finally decided on the one Mexican place up the road. It was a nice surprise to have a *good* meal, with good service. There's another restaurant (same name) up closer to us, but the one time we went in there, we couldn't get seated! Stood around while the waitresses passed by, some saying hi, some ignoring us. We left after 5 minutes. We have to say we're not impressed with what is offered in the way of places to dine around here. For a college town that also attracts winter residents, spring breakers and vacationers, I would expect more. I know we had more options (of the non chain variety) back home. Just another reason we're anxious to get our own place so we can eat in and have control over our meals!<br />
I went to bed Saturday with a headache that lasted all day Sunday and lingered Monday. This wasn't my usual migraine that knocks me out, this was at my right temple and just did me in. Not good when we could actually do stuff since hubs didn't have the on call phone!<br />
Managed to get to my friends house and get our mail. Since my truck was acting up for awhile, then died and it sat for over a month, my mail has really piled up. I've been winning book contests, so they've been arriving as well. It didn't take me long to do the actual mail portion of what we brought home - credit card statements, bank statements, junk - but the books? Opened each one, then on to the website so I can mark they arrived. Had a problem since I have some I can't mark off yet, but turns out I won 2 other contests! One was a book, the other was 2 CD's. Not sure I'll listen to the CD's, but they were free! lol Just glad I didn't win any big stuff like the washer/dryer, fridge, grill, etc! Next time I'll give her more warning that we're on our way. Might have other stuff that got put elsewhere.<br />
Last night Jim and I took a walk while the kids watched a movie. Went to the fishing pier and talked to some of the people there fishing - yes, at night. There was a dolphin! I wasn't sure if they'd come in where we are (not sure of water depth here), but there it was just swimming around, looking for some food. It got one while we were there too. I don't care what anyone says, being able to see a dolphin in the wild like that makes a day better. Wouldn't be able to see that back in PA, that's for sure! <br />
Since we were out most of yesterday I figured today we'd stay home and try to get stuff done. I had the littlest do some school on here, but I'm still hoping to get a bit more cleaning done in here. At least we could open windows today to air things out a bit. With the pets and gassy people, it was starting to get unpleasant in here, and we can't do candles due to the animals. Nice bay breeze will clears things out nicely!<br />
I've started the process for a new source of income. Not sure it'll happen, but I can always hope! I have more work to do, but I think it's looking pretty good so far. I'm not going to talk about it just yet, but I'm hoping soon I'll have some good news to share! Part is to help fund retirement, part is my fear something will happen to hubs and I'll have no income and end up out on the street with the kids.<br />
Hope your week is starting off better than mine! Anything exciting going on for you? Any plans? Maybe a field trip?<br />
Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-74147999951122359652013-01-17T19:34:00.000-06:002013-01-17T19:34:26.590-06:00After ChristmasBy now most everyone has put away their Christmas decorations. No more traveling or visiting family. Things are settling back to a normal routine. What a better time to talk about planning Christmas 2013! No, really!<br />
Take a look back. Did you like your decorations? Do you need to replace anything? Lights, garland, outdoor decor? Do you have a wrap station? It could be a laundry basket that holds all of your wrapping supplies. How about the traveling/visiting? Is it time to review how you're going to deal with it this year? Maybe now you have small children and trying to visit multiple houses in one day is just too overwhelming for all involved.<br />
Sit down and write it out. Make your master plan. Make your list of who you get gifts for - including the mailman, paper carrier, etc. Travel plans. Can you visit someone after the holiday rush when you're more relaxed and able to enjoy your visit more? Don't forget your menu! Do you host a get together or have any parties over the holidays? Did you get any raves over a certain dish? Make note to make it again now.<br />
Breaking down your tasks to more manageable options over the course of the year will make this holiday season more relaxed. Maybe by a gift or two a month and put them away. I personally have a tote for gifts I keep with my Christmas decor. Since I'm the one who digs the totes out, I'm the only one going through them. Nobody sneaks a peek! Start with the points programs to earn gift cards in time for the holidays. I do <a href="http://www.sendearnings.com/?r=ref3506525">send earnings,</a> <a href="http://www.inboxdollars.com/?r=ref11463095">Inbox Dollars,</a> <a href="http://www.swagbucks.com/refer/shelszoo">swagbucks,</a> and MyPoints (I can email you a link for that one). Not only can you get emails to click through (a few a day, maybe 10 minutes max), surveys to earn points, but if you make an online purchase you can earn points. You can also print out coupons! You get paid per coupon used with a bonus of using 10 or so a month. Start checking out clearance sections of the stores. That's our first stop when shopping now.<br />
Back when we had littles, we decided it got to be too much to try to visit everyone in one day. We did my maternal grandparents on Christmas Eve for the Polish celebration, then Christmas day was ours. Sleep in (and yes, my kids were trained! lol), eat a good breakfast, then presents. Once we had a bunch of kids, hubby came up with a new game plan. Each child opens a present an hour. So, whenever we were done eating, we'd hand each child a present to open. Once opened and the trash was dealt with, the microwave timer was set. I tried to make it so they'd each get a toy or movie or something interactive for the first one. Since we'd usually start presents about 10 am, we'd end up with a bunch by supper still waiting to be opened. It was decided that after a certain time (supper or shortly after), we'd allow them to open the rest, but they had to show us the present and throw away the trash so no gifts got lost in the paper. I also started using "code" names on packages. This cut down on the kids trying to sneak a peek or shaking of presents. Some groups I've used are Scooby Doo cast, Brady Bunch cast, elf names, reindeer names, and more. I didn't get to use code names this year as we're in a motor home and I was wrapping presents in the back of my Expedition, but my son back in PA carried on out tradition!<br />
Planning meals is a time saver no matter what time of year. If you start now with a basic menu, you can add on dishes later. In November, before the madness hits, you can see which dishes you can make ahead to freeze. Cookie dough freezes well, either in balls or logs. Mashed potatoes freeze well, but there is a trick to reheating them. They tend to get runny, so you add some instant potato flakes.Most desserts are freezable, but iced cakes don't do well when defrosting.<br />
We're now 1800 miles away from most family and friends, so we're making our own traditions now. We didn't do any decorations since I wasn't dealing with digging in storage for them. No code names, but they did open a present an hour. Unfortunately we didn't get to drive around looking at lights. My truck wasn't running, plus when hubby asked, he was told there weren't many places that decorated. How sad!<br />
Do you have any traditions? How do you think pre-planning some of the holidays would help you this year?Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-18630048927944708612013-01-16T22:07:00.000-06:002013-01-16T22:07:13.484-06:00More being prepared...After I posted yesterday, I realized we probably have less support than most people. We're not religious, so we don't have church support. We're new to Texas, and most of my time has been spent without a truck, so I don't know many people here. Ok, honestly? I know my girlfriend from way back (before kids, way back!), and there's another lady I talk to on facebook from the area. Then we have people at his work that I've met. That's about all! So, if something would happen, we'd truly be all alone. Makes my planning more important than ever!<br />
Once we move and I have daily access to my mail, I'll order our credit reports and social security statements. You can find our from Social Security how much you're slated to receive should something happen. They tell you retirement income, disability, and survivor benefits along with your income for the past 10 or so years. Hubby would be out of luck if I would die or get hurt first as I've been a stay at home mom most of our marriage. I really need to work on our savings and passive income. <br />
Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-1228768510146400322013-01-15T18:52:00.002-06:002013-01-15T18:54:24.732-06:00Are you prepared?There's been quite a few incidents lately that have people questioning their preparedness. From nature fighting back to crazed maniacs shooting up buildings to long term job loss. I've thought about those myself, but there's not much I can do to really prepare except stock up and hope some maniac doesn't snap. My biggest fear right now is what would happen to us if something would happen to the hubs? I'm not working outside of the home, and just starting the blog, so I don't have income flowing in here regularly yet. While I do have some direct sales companies I rep for, I haven't been able to market like I'd like due to no local mailing address (for tax purposes), and I was without a vehicle for over a month.<br />
Would you be okay (financially) if something were to happen to the main bread winner? Savings, income, food? It's not something people want to dwell on, but you need to be prepared. Thanks to my insomnia, I get to dwell on these things in the early morning hours. We'd be pretty much broke. We are living in our motorhome, so we'd have a roof over our heads, but would I be able to pay storage? Would I be able to buy food? Would I be able to pay rent somewhere so we could hook up to electric and water?<br />
Since we just started a new year, and we're in a new state, I figure it's time to start. I've started putting some money into savings. Not much. I'm following the 52 weeks of savings. Basically you save the dollar amount of the week of the year. Week 1 - $1, week 26- $26. At the end of the year you'll have almost $1400 saved. If you work it backwards and have an interest bearing account, you'll have even more saved! It's a great way to save for the holidays or even a vacation. I'm hoping to save more and use it as our emergency fund. We were without a truck for a month when the alternator died. It wasn't a huge cost, but I had other bills planned, so it had to wait. If we would have had an emergency fund, the kids and I could have explored our new city a bit.<br />
I need to find my accounts and see just how much life insurance we have on the hubs. Not enough, I'm sure! While we don't make a ton of money, it's enough to keep us fed, clothed and housed. I have no additional schooling or training, and I'd prefer to stay home with my kids. Adding life insurance is high on my priorities!<br />
We're doing all right money wise right now. Just the car loan, and 2 small credit cards. We can't refinance our truck due to it's age - according to the credit union. I'd prefer not getting a new (to us) vehicle quite yet. I'm hoping to have the money to by one with cash when we're ready. The credit cards should be at $0 before June.<br />
That leaves our food situation. Normally I'd like to have our chest freezer and fridge freezer full plus a pantry stocked with canned goods, but we're in a motorhome with limited storage space. I may buy some gift cards to local stores and restaurants to have on hand. I'm working on clearing out my email with all of my surveys and click to earns so I can earn some gift cards as well.<br />
If you have any questions or if I forgot anything, please let me know!Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-19269769755876729932013-01-14T17:05:00.001-06:002013-01-14T17:09:29.383-06:00Trying againLet's see if I can keep internet with my new hotspot while at the state park. We do know it didn't get reception in the wooded area, but we're now bayside and seem to do pretty well, so far. I do get some breaks in service, but usually at night when I'm doing some contests or pinning.<br />
I'm trying to restart my blog as a way to share ideas on crafts (for kids and adults), recipes, reviews of books/products, homeschooling sites/ideas and more! Right now we're still in the motorhome, but I do have a few emails out (they didn't leave a number on their ad) to see a few rentals. Crossing fingers we get to move this weekend! Living in a motorhome when it's in the 40's and there's no heat isn't the most fun we've had since we've moved!<br />
We managed to get my truck running again - after about a month of it sitting. Hubby and a co-worker had changed out a pulley and something, but said the alternator tested fine. Turns out the car place didn't properly test the alternator! So, we were able to pick one up Saturday and get it in, and I even got to drive to get my papers on Sunday! Woot!<br />
Anyone else getting free kindle books? I get a bunch of pages on my facebook feed, and a few have links for free kindle books. While I don't get all of them, I do have over 200 books on my pc kindle now. Add in the books I've managed to win in the contests, and I could really use and extra few hours a day to spend reading!<br />
Since we're mobile again, I'd like to do a field trip. The kids and I didn't get to do too much before the truck died, and we're still new to the area. I'll be checking into a few places this week to see what we can do for free/cheap. Maybe we'll take a drive to the beach (because, well, we can! lol), but I would like to do something a little more school related. Maybe an historic tour or something.<br />
I know making money while staying at home is an issue for a lot of my friends, so I'll be posting some ideas/ places that hire home workers. I'll also share links I've gathered from magazine articles and books on career changes, what you should be doing (personality tests), etc. Try and help someone get into a job they actually like instead of something they drag themselves to everyday.<br />
This week I hope to work on a schedule for posting - and post daily. I will be talking about long distance moves, living in an RV/motorhome, state park living and more. If you would like to see anything, please ask! I'll do my best to work it into a post. My oldest little and I have been talking about her blogging as well. Maybe let her do one post a week on different topics. <br />
I would leave you with a picture, but for some reason I can't access my photos on my laptop.<br />
Thanks for stopping by, and hope to see you again soon! Once I get more followers I plan to do a giveaway. Not sure what yet, but I'll let you know when I get that organized.Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-56493680202268779582012-12-21T15:16:00.000-06:002012-12-21T15:16:33.348-06:00Almost ChristmasIt's actually the Mayan Apocalypse today. So far, nothing has happened except my phone turned off early. I'll have to figure out adding more time, since my oldest was usually the one who did that for me. <br />
Still stuck in the RV. *sigh* We were hoping to be in some sort of rental, but the money we were counting on never came through. Figures. It's highly unlikely we'll be able to get in anywhere now. Looks like Christmas will be spent camping at a state park. Oh joy. (sarcasm)<br />
I'll be starting a new blog soon. One more geared towards crafting and schooling. I was hoping to be in a place before then so I could actually *do* stuff to post, but I'll figure out something. <br />
Maybe now I can convince the hubs to do some crafts to sell. Not like I do, but some pallet furniture and the stuff I pinned. The things you need power tools for! lol We have a storage unit (more of a large garage bay) that has electric. All we would need to do is move some stuff around and set up a work space. I could sort through some boxes while he does his stuff, and the kids could help "find" their toys. Try to get rid of a bunch before we get into a place. <br />
I've been pinning like mad lately. Adding more crafts, garden ideas, sewing projects (I don't even sew!), and lots of food! I've also started to do contests/sweepstakes. I've won over 20 books from goodreads.com, and I even won a math curriculum from a blog! Now to get my mail from my friend - along with other stuff- so I can see what all I have. Would be nice to have a few surprise wins in my mail pile, but my luck isn't that good.<br />
We can only stay at the state park for so long (I think 3 weeks in a row), so I'll be looking into places to move. With "Winter Texans" here in full force, most RV parks are full though. The rental market is crazy with pricing and most don't allow pets. We also have the 4 kids, and most parks are priced for 2 people. Add in a *per day* charge for kids, and you can rent an apartment! If only we knew more about RV living before we left. We would have bought a different RV and did things differently. Now it's become a major hassle most days, and our nerves are stretched to the limits with living in such close quarters. Not to mention my truck? Yeah, battery light still on even after they changed the pulley and something else. The alternator tested fine, was fine on the trip out here, then we go to leave for town, and the light is back on. *sigh* Here's hoping our luck changes soon!<br />
Happy Holidays all!!Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-82861436556170277532012-11-01T13:42:00.001-05:002012-11-01T13:42:17.858-05:00Sandy - we're helpingWe recently moved to south Texas and less than 4 months later our area was devestated by Sandy. My oldest knows people affected directly, and I know someone who has friends and family affected. I am donating ALL of my proceeds from orders from my sites. I also have an address (working on more) if people would like to buy an animal (or 5) for a child who lost everything. My business facebook page is Shelszoo Superstores where I have my links listed. I'll be updating that page today with links on the front page with ideas for Christmas gifts. That's also where I'll be updating on our progress with donations. You could do all of your Christmas shopping through my sites and give back to an area that has been devestated.<br />
Thank you for any help you can give.Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-80828750111172634692011-08-29T15:08:00.000-05:002011-08-29T15:20:54.702-05:00Irene was here<div>We managed to survive a hurricane with no damage (personal), no power loss, and no flooding. We had some water in our basement, but just a minor leak that we always deal with when it rains.</div><div>Trying to get ready for some upcoming shows. I'm booked Sunday and a friend sent me an fb invite for one Sunday. It's kind of far, but if it actually has people that show up, it may be worth my time. Just not sure if my helper and I could manage to make enough stuff (other than what I sell through direct sales), to sell. With driving people to and from work, to and from practice, plus our first pasta dinner, making PB&J's, first game...this is going to be a crazy busy week! </div><div>I definitely ned to work in this room today so I can spread out and craft and get a tote in here to store the finished product. I have to make my list of printing I have to do (labels, pricing signs, journal jars, gift in a jar labels/ instructions), because we all know my memory is shot! Yesterday, I was going to get my papers and I completely pass the strip mall entrance and drive like I'm going to take the teens where they have to go. Totally passed where I had to go! Think that means I drive them too much! If we could swing the insurance, I'd be up to another driver. Major issue is we can't afford another car. This payment is a killer!</div><div>My crafting season is starting to heat up. I need to find some time to get some more stock made and ready to sell. My helper is starting her own little venture now as well. Tonight we hope to be able to start some projects. Just depends on the rest of the crew here. Everytime we start stuff they seem to need us for something. </div><div>Going to start listing on yardsellr, so go check it out! I have literally a TON of clothes that I need to sell! Plus school books and other goodies. Finally picked up some priority boxes at the PO the other day, but I'll need to do an online order and hope they actually deliver it this time!</div><div>Time to get busy!!</div>Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-61547541736238089162011-08-23T23:15:00.001-05:002011-08-23T23:29:47.170-05:00*sigh*<div>This is not a good week for me. Been doing way too much thinking and that's never a good thing with me. I did manage to find my batteries so I can start listing tomorrow. Planning to make a couple of headbands and glue more ribbons so I can start more. Maybe take them to the dinner so I can work on them while I'm sitting there. I can glue some hair clips tomorrow. I need to clear a space for them to "set" where the cats don't attack them. Going to try to get some inventory built up for a big show coming up. Once I get all the paperwork in for the girls to start school, and I have a good amount listed for sale, I want to work on my resume. I need to make money for *me*. Not too sure about things right now, and I'll feel better if I can support my kids. Just need to make it until November when football is over. Do school a much as possible to work ahead, list stuff to sell, start to look in boxes in the basement, do some weekend shows, get a night job. The only time I can work since I have to work around other peoples schedules. Maybe start working earlier than that. We'll have to see how schooling goes.</div><div>Did you ever just sit down and take stock of your life and wonder where all the years went? Like you were just treading water and you have some regrets? I don't regret my kids, but there are a few other aspects I regret. Now I have to dust myself off and make plans from here on out. I'll need to take my own advise and do what's best for me from now on. Scary as it is, it's time!</div><div>I hope to get working on my blogs more than a post here and there and a month goes by. They say to have a good log that could also bring in money, you have to blog 3 times a week at least! Wow. Not sure what all I actually do 3 times a week! <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">lol</span></div><div>At least the weather has cooled down some. No more 100's! Maybe I'll get some time to rearrange some in my one storage unit - so I can get some stuff out of my aunt's since it seems to be bugging people who it shouldn't. </div><div>Did I mention I'm not happy? Not that I'm sad per <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">se</span>, just not happy. Discontented. Unsettled. Yes, definitely time for a change. Going to have to do some research and make sure I can get the support I'll need from my friends. </div><div>If you feel so led, kindly keep me in your prayers. I'm going to be needing all the support I can get!</div>Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-15735776409516932762011-08-04T19:39:00.001-05:002011-08-04T20:02:50.833-05:00August???<div>All ready? Really?? Yikes! I managed to start the enrollment process for the 2 little ones for school, of course I had issues, so I have to wait for the school to get back to me. Then the packages will start. A lot of them. That's why one day next week I'll spend time <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">getting</span> ready for the dozens of boxes we'll be getting. Have to figure out where 2 more desk tops will go, then all of their s<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">chool</span> books. Maybe some small totes for the misc stuff, keep the workbooks on the bookshelf. May need to grab another one to fit everything.</div><div>Did manage to get some clothes sorted today. Not all, and there's a bunch left, but it's a good start. I'd love to sort my clothes tomorrow. See what all I have, pack some away for when we own a house (clothes to wear to paint, do yard work, etc.), try on more. Maybe then I can start listing more to sell. See if I have more luck on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">yardsellr</span> than I do on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">webstore</span>. Might list some other stuff on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">webstore</span> though. </div><div>I still have more planning to do for the move. I want to contact another realtor here about a foreclosure deal. Renting, not buying. We definitely want to move next year. Would help us save more money since the rent is so high here.</div><div>No real shows on the books for August. I should get busy and look for some fall shows, but I just don't have the energy right now. I'm working on more headbands to keep me busy. I managed to finish a thinner one yesterday while waiting at football. Just need to finish it off, then one of my girls can wear it to model it for me. I'll work on some lined gator clips later. I'll do plain and with some embellishments on them.</div><div>They want it to get hot just in time for football to start. Poor kids! I better get lunch stuff in the house for us since <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">JJ</span> will be gone all day soon. Yolanda works most days and usually doesn't eat before, but she might if I have some quick lunch stuffs around. I'd like the guys to do a session or 2 of making breakfast sandwiches to freeze. Then I know <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">JJ</span> would eat before he left for the day. I'll have to go through my coupons and plan out some deals first. I'd like to have some dinners done too for long days. More <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">crockpot</span> meals for the hot days.</div><div>I've been so tired lately and I've done nothing to warrant it to this degree. Although I am still thinking about working a night shift job. Just figuring out the logistics of getting people where they need to be, watching the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">littles</span>, sleep. We'll see how things go in the next couple of weeks. If I clean out at least one storage unit, it'll help a bit. Selling a bunch online would help even more.</div><div>Anyone care to help me take pictures, download them and start listing stuff to sell? It actually shouldn't take me too long, it's the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">littles</span> getting into stuff <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">that'll</span> keep me from getting a lot listed. </div><div>Guess that's all for now. Nothing much been going on. Just football, heatwaves, and driving.</div>Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-39267677278281612612011-06-17T15:02:00.000-05:002011-06-17T15:19:41.619-05:00TGIF<div>What a yucky day! Weather isn't sure if it wants to rain or not, but it's muggy none the less. *sigh* Would be nice if they'd get us our a/c unit and hook it up! Our poor animals are suffering and us 2 legged peoples aren't doing so well either.</div><div>Thinking I'll put stuff out at a yard sale tomorrow. Nothing too exciting, just some kids clothes, but I'd like to put up my vendor displays as well. Maybe hand out some <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">flyers</span> and cards. Never know where you'll get a sale!</div><div>Sunday I have a vendor event for a playground fundraiser. A bit further than what I'd like right now, but should get some sales since it's for the playground! I have to get busy with my hair clips. If I can do some clips this weekend, I can sell the Sunday. I should clean out my business closet to see if I can <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">make</span> room for other stuff I make. Mainly the bath stuff. No room for the dog beds here and I won't do the candy cakes with no upcoming shows - no need to tempt little man needlessly!! <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">lol</span> I'm holding off on signing up for more shows, just because I can never be sure if hubby will have to work weekends or not. Luckily there's some car show on Sundays I can do for exposure.</div><div>If anyone (all 3 of you, and anyone that tumbles across this) wants to check out my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">webstore</span>, I have a store there named "<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Shelszoo</span>". Right now it's my stuff with some teen clothes, and I hope to add more this weekend. Just have to sort the clothes taking up space in here so I can find the original clothes I took pictures of and get them listed. Then I can start taking more pictures, upload them and get them listed. Add in I'm looking for a night job, to help us make ends meet, and I'll be lucky to have any hair left by the time school starts up again. Oh, yeah, except I school at home! <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">lol</span> I guess I can work the night job until my sanity gives or I just sleep around the clock or something. As long as we can actually pay all the bills and have money for food and maybe put some away for our move, I'll be happy. Happier if people start buying my stuff on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">webstore</span> so it gets less cluttered in here! *grin*</div>Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-71913476893199451792011-06-06T14:47:00.001-05:002011-06-06T15:07:56.440-05:00Monday<div><div>Why is it, no matter how organized I think I am, Monday's are crazy?? Doesn't help that the oldest child snuck out while everyone was sleeping. No note, no nothing. Yeah, I'm looking forward to moving and her being on her own! No more of her selfish antics to deal with on a daily basis!!</div><div>I managed to sell something on webstore, now I just have to find the box that I can use. My Priority boxes didn't come yet. I'd like to start listing some more tonight. See if I can manage to get everything I have pictures of listed. Then tomorrow I can concentrate on taking more pictures! I also have a bunch of stuff to try on. Since I lost weight, I have to try on pants again to see which ones are too big. Then I also just got a bunch at a bag sale, so I'll have to check which ones fit well and which can go. While I'd like to keep some smaller stuff since I'm hoping more weight follows, I just don't have the room to store any more stuff. So, it'll get listed and the money goes into the moving fund! </div><div>Looks like I have a show Saturday! It's a doggie adoption event - hoping I can make a bunch of good contacts there! If we have good weather we should have a decent turn out. Help me get my name out there a little more.</div><div>Spent some time trying to get relocation info for a couple different areas in SC. I have the Myrtle Beach info (I could probably tell you all about that area anyway! I'm always looking at sites for there! lol), but think we should look into a few other areas. See how the job market is, housing, taxes, etc. As long as I keep up with the decluttering, I'll feel confident about the move. Hoping to be able to pay up the storage units this weekend, then I'll get a new unit closer and start to clear out the original 2. I know the clothes in there are most probably a loss now. See what's trash, what we're keeping, what I can sell, what can be donated. Since Boo has a few days off from football, I can use his muscles!</div><div>Almost done school with Lex. Have to get her re-enrollment in, got Boo's in. Just have to call for a set for Cricket, have a print out for Zoe. Just have to start filling everything out! Got the littles some books to work in to help when school starts. Try to get them ahead of where they should be since I know they fell behind with all the hassles we've had lately -internet that keeps going down, having to move, and all that stress.</div></div>Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-52732326551220597112011-05-18T22:49:00.001-05:002011-05-18T23:15:44.881-05:00Hump DayI managed to get pretty much done this week. Feeling pretty accomplished so far! Monday was the bag sale at the JCC, and since we were there until the end, and they wanted tables cleared, we scored the bags for $1. They were going for $5/bag or 5 bags for $20. SCORE!! Just wish we had some extra time! For the $1/bag deal, I would have grabbed a few bags of stuff to sell! Tuesday I managed to sort and match up the littles clothes. Still have some to match, but I had to send a bunch down to be washed today. Today Yolanda actually cleaned (some) in their room and they can use their closet again. Now I can hang more of Lexi's clothes for her. Once I get some of the clean clothes to fold and sort, I'll be matching more. Found 3 bags worth of clothes to toss. Finally getting rid of the stained stuff or with holes. Still have a ton or more to list - hopefully I'll get to that the end of this week. Tomorrow I have to figure out where I am this weekend, finalize a Daisy Scout party with NA, clean more in this room and try on clothes. I managed to lose some weight when I was sick, now I have to figure out what size pants I am so I can get rid of the rest. Then June 4th is the next bag sale and I'll be able to add to my new smaller size wardrobe!! Yikes! Just realized I should clean out our closet. That means I have to clean in *front* of it first! UGH But I know there's stuff I can get rid of, plus some cold weather stuff I can pack away. Should get a tote for those clothes.<br />Saturday I'll be at a Light the Night event. Really hoping to make some sales/get orders! Means I get to donate money to the organization, and get some sales on record! Plus if I sell/get orders for diaper/towel cakes, it means I get to make more! lol I hope to be able to sign up for a few more events coming up. One is up the line a bit, so I'd have to do the NA party for gas money! Then there's one June 11th that's a BBQ type event. I don't have anything really *foodie* except the Greeting Cakes. I'm going to have to reread what he said about food being sold. See if I can do any of the rubs to sell. I'll have a bunch of kitchen towel cakes and that kind of stuff, plus the rest of my stuff I sell.<br />I have to email the one school tonight. Still no check and I want to get in the withdrawal form. It's pathetic, but it's been over a week and they're not that far away! That money could come in handy with these gas prices. Especially since I seem to have a child who thinks I have to have gas to take her to/from work daily. $80/week, when she doesn't pay me that much for RENT a month total. Something's going to have to give. I can't even get a job working night shift because I have to wait for her call to get her. 2 hours a day I waste driving her (no highways). Yeah, cuz I don't have anything else to do!<br />At least 2 more emails will need to be sent. Not going to waste money on postage for these people. Also a call. Planning to do that after hours since I'd rather not deal with attitude. Snarky ass people should just steer clear of me. I don't care how much schooling you have, I don't care what your paycheck looks like, you're still an ass. Go and don't help someone else!<br />I have to start getting the forms for the schools for C and Z. I should have forms for Z printed, just need to start the tedious process of filling them out, getting things copied, and mailing them in. C will be different since I want to do some more work with her before I start her paperwork and I want her tested (these idiots didn't listen to me about that) to see where she should start. We can always work quickly so she can get to where she "should" be according to her age. These idiots decided she should be placed with her age. Umm, yeah, it's called testing and I agreed to it. Never again!<br />Still looking to move. Far, far away. One reason to declutter and start to put money aside. I look daily (sometimes more than once a day) at houses there, rentals, etc. I have a plan, it just depends on how much we leave here with. Since you usually can't get a mortgage until you've been at your job at least 1 year, it looks like we'd have to rent (WAY cheaper rents there!!), and save for a house. Which is ok, since the housing is cheaper there. Hubby's work is in demand there, and I've been looking into shows I'd be able to do (pricing, etc.).<br />Ok, bedtime. I've still got a major list of things I have to get done this week!Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-9716340353918634592011-05-15T13:14:00.001-05:002011-05-15T13:27:19.549-05:00I need more time!!I can't believe it's been 2 months! I think about blogging, then something happens and I get busy. Really need to rework the to do lists. It's looking like I'll be getting a night shift job so we can continue to eat and use the lights. Normally hubby's check would cover everything, but his work is slow, and his checks aren't where I'm used to them being. *sigh* Since my businesses aren't bringing in the money I was hoping they would by now, I have to do what needs done. I'm just hoping I'll be able to still get 6 hours of sleep. I know you're supposed to get more, but it's what I average now.<br />I'm rethinking some things lately. Reworking my business plans, rethinking future plans. My getting this job will help with all of that. We'll be able to put aside some money and I won't have to deal with all the anxiety over the budget every month.<br />I'll be listing stuff to sell on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">webstore</span> this week. Hoping to start later today - after I fold more clothes, sort them and match up stuff for the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">littles</span>, clean up the master bedroom, unload my truck and start working on all the bags I use for my shows. They're starting to rip and I'm tired of lugging 10 bags when I don't use most of them.<br />Still looking into housing options along with some other things I'm not going to post in an open forum. Things will be changing, just not sure when. Don't really care if people are happy about the changes, it's something that should have been done, and it's pathetic that's it's still dragging on.<br />Going to list some kittens on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">craigslist</span>. We *have* to get most of them out of this house! They're old enough now, we can get them out. Hoping they go fast, because I'm starting to stress over people's attitudes in this house. Like I don't have enough to do, let's add <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">rehoming</span> the kittens!<br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ok</span>, rainy week equals me working in the house <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">decluttering</span>, listing on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">webstore</span> (my store is <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">shelszoo</span> there), organizing business stuff, catching up on calls/emails, finding shows to do, finding places to market my stuff, maybe adding a few more things to my crafts that I make.<br />I better get busy folding clothes so I can start listing today! Would be nice to get rid of a box or 2 a week. Lots of kids clothes, my clothes and school books will be listed this week.Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-89307793704064225792011-03-06T19:55:00.000-06:002011-03-06T20:11:11.001-06:00Rainy SundayAll day. Rain. Yeah, you know I got nothing done! Well, maybe stuff on my cityville and I cut some coupons. Other than that, nothing! That means tomorrow I have to call about a show Sunday, do some paperwork, call about hubby's meds being faxed over, match up clothes, sort and fold newly washed clothes, run the teens all over, paperwork, and get ready for the next few weekends of shows. Sounds like a regular Monday!<br />Things have been really kind of boring here lately. Mainly stuff I won't put on a blog for all to see. It's not everyone's business, and I don't want to bore my few readers! lol<br />I did manage to update my Shelszoo Superstores blog. Nothing too exciting there, except my March is pretty well booked. Calling tomorrow about a show to help, possibly, get some sales. I'd like to build up our vacation fund. I dipped into it to build up some stock for Noah's Ark and Greeting Cakes. If anyone wants to check out what I sell, you can see my sites on my other blog, or Shelszoo Superstores on facebook. I have all my shows listed there. There are a couple that they ask you to bring the flyer so I get credit - it can be emailed.<br />The other thing going on is Freedom's golf fundraiser. If anyone wants to sign on to golf, or donate a prize, or be a sponsor, just message me here with an email address where I can reach you. It really helps the boys with being able to get them supplies, pay for snacks, and all that good stuff most parents don't think twice about them having.<br />Been working on our budget. It didn't help when it cost me $89 to fill the tank, and then we get our gas bill for the house and it was *double* last month's bill! YIKES!! Looks like I'll be listing on webstore soon. Time to clear out some of the clothes and books we have lying around. We really don't have the room, and we can use that extra money on these crazy bills! Luckily my truck just needed tires (another $700) for inspection.<br />Uppercase Living is still having the free expression with every $50 order (up to 3 per order) until the 15th. Great deal! Plus Noah's Ark is having a deal where for every 10 animals you buy, you get a free "baby". The babies are smaller stuffed animals with an outfit. I have 2 myself, and they are cute! They come in a box, so if you don't personally want to keep it, you can donate it, or put it in your gift closet!<br />Thanks for reading!Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-76254986590966620392011-02-03T11:15:00.000-06:002011-02-03T11:32:05.233-06:00Kittens!!Yes, Abby had her kittens. 5 of them. Monday night, my oldest yells that fact! <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">lol</span> We didn't realize she was so close, so we really weren't ready for the birth. All live births, and doing well so far. One orange/white, one grey stripe, 2 black and 1 calico. So cute!! I keep going into their closet (where she decided was the best place to birth) and giving Abby attention and checking out the babies. We do have a home for the orange one and a friend said he'd take one. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ds</span> said he may have a taker too. We'll have more in a week or so, since, yes, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ziva</span> is also pregnant! Riptide was a busy boy - but the girls aren't too fond of him now! <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">lol</span> My oldest was saying how Abby and Riptide were "talking" yesterday, and it sounded like Abby was telling him off.<br />Been keeping close to home since the storms. My tires need replaced and there's ice out there. Tonight I'll be checking on tire prices so I can finally get new ones and not have to worry about that. Just have to worry about the trans that's acting up. Yeah me. *sigh*<br />Things are starting to get busy with my businesses. I have a show next weekend, one the 26<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> and a bunch more coming up. I better get busy making my stuff I want to sell, plus ordering some inventory from others. Time to get busy selling! Get bills paid off, put some aside for fun times.<br />Yikes! I better find the labels to send back the laptop! Completely forgot about that one! He can't get a new one until that one is returned, so I should see about getting it out today or tomorrow. If I can find the label. Wonder if it's one they emailed? Ya think? I hope so!<br />I'm hoping the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">ickies</span> are finally on their way out of this house! I'm tired of all the sick kids, feeling horrible, and not being able to get our stuff done we want to do!<br />I need to look into getting the kids out of the house! Poor things are tired of being cooped up and are getting <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">rammy</span>. :( Can't play outside, it's icy. Can't go to Gram's <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">cuz</span> of the germs (they can't afford to get sick). I wouldn't really let them out here much as some punks destroyed out snowman they built. Not teens either. We're talking younger kids. Yeah, just what I want my kids around...Not! So we stay inside where they get <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">rammy</span> and start acting up. *sigh* Add that to my list - making calls/ looking places up for some fun times!<br />Ugh, I hear the school books calling. At least one teacher stopped the harassing calls. Now to get the other one to stop calling daily - she's supposed to call weekly or less! Would be nice to get stuff done without the interruptions!Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-15457028675379821582011-01-26T23:47:00.000-06:002011-01-26T23:56:50.458-06:00Snowy, snowyJust another snowy day here in eastern PA. Of course, I happen to live in the one area where we're not getting as much snow as predicted. *sigh* That could be a good thing as my tires are pretty bad (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">c'mon</span> tax refund!!), but I really have no place to go. Since it's a winter wonderland outside, I should spend some time doing stuff inside. Like sort clothes, catch up on some school with my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">littles</span>, go through some boxes, get ready for the upcoming craft/vendor shows. Especially the last one! I'm adding some crafts to what I sell, because as we all know I have so much extra time! <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">lol</span><br />Maybe if I can get on a regular schedule I can post more on here. I have a bunch of links I want to share, just never seem to find the time to blog. I do want to try to do better, maybe get more followers. See about sharing links I have saved for various reasons. I have a bunch on different ways to do charity work. Then there's some work at home ideas. A bunch for homeschooling and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">printables</span> for kids.<br />All this talk that's been going on about what's in fast food is really making me want to stock up our cabinets and freezers so we're not tempted to go hit one of them on a crazy night. We should be able to do up a bunch of different meals once our refund gets here. I have my coupons mostly ready for a good stock up trip. I'll need to fine tune the sorting and make sure all the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">expireds</span> are out. then I'll wait for the match ups to see what we use and what would be a good deal for us.<br />It's late and I would like to update my business blog before I get some sleep!Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-222609622751920398.post-25762703242066900252011-01-09T03:26:00.000-06:002011-01-09T03:38:21.011-06:00Stomach BugYep, it's hit us here. Hard. Hubby says I'm the only one not puking. Oh joy. So I'm stuck in the bedroom hoping I don't start. TV doesn't have a working remote (I'll have to remedy that!), and we only have one bathroom. I'm trying to time my potty breaks for when I don't hear any moaning or rushing for the toilet. *sigh*<br />This is not a good start to the year. Had some other stuff going on here, plus my grandmother was in the hospital for a week. She's been diagnosed with congestive heart failure. Plus my grandfather is sick. Yeah, just not a good start.<br />I'm still looking for places to have a craft/ vendor event before they all start up. I'll spend some of my quality alone time checking the hotel replies and trying to find a place big enough that doesn't want an arm and leg! I have some crafts I'd like to make, but <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">that'll</span> wait until closer to show time for most. I can do some printing, if I can get on Jim's computer. Unless I bring up Cricket's and see if I can get it to work now.<br />I really have to redo my to do list. I know I have calls to make, printing to do, school to get to with 3 kids, start another one doing some school, plus I have to go through boxes in the basement and sort the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">littles</span> clothes then match them into outfits (for the most part). Make life easier if they have an outfit they can just pick out of the closet. No more Zoe wearing polka dotted pants and a striped shirt - with no matching colors! <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">lol</span> I'll also start on my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">webstore</span> again. Get that up and running. See how much I can list at once and keep my sanity. Try to get some <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">decluttering</span> done while I'm in the mood. Helps that we could use the money. Payday fell wrong and things are a bit hairy, but it'll pass.<br />I better get some sleep so I can get something done tomorrow! If I'm lucky, I may even move around our bedroom. Not getting into the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">littles</span> room to move stuff around, so I'll just work where I can.Mom 2 Manyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01415418672678759822noreply@blogger.com0