Kids and Sports

Some people like their kids to play organized sports, others don't. I joined the new rankrz site today to see what it was all about. It is like my blog, only it is for everyone to rank their favorites (and worsts!) Here is the list I submitted today about my favorite reasons for kids to play sports:


1. Get their bodies moving

2. Learn to play by rules

3. Learn to be part of a team

4. Learn to listen to coach/become "coachable"

5. May develop a love for the game

6. May be something you can do as a family

7. Develop leadership abilities

8. Develop concentration and focus

9. Help build confidence

10. Gives them something constructive to do

Black Bean Salsa

I'm on a blogging kick right now about this black bean salsa . I found a recipe, adjusted it to fight my needs, and made up a huge batch of it. Here are a few of my favorite things about it:

1. delicious!

2. good for you

3. a good way to get the kids to eat their veggies

4. easy to make

5. affordable to make

6. good for snacking

7. good as a side dish

8. makes a ton!

9. the spicy-ness of the rotel

10. makes a great edible gift

Christmas Carols

As it is "beginning to look a lot like Christmas everywhere I go", I have been thinking of some of my favorite things about this time of year. There are so many things that really bring home the feel of the season. One of those is the Christmas carols. Here are a few of my favorites:

1. O Holy Night

2. Angels We Have Heard On High

3. Rudolph

4. Jingle Bells

5. Deck The Halls

6. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

7. Jingle Bell Rock

8. Jolly Old St. Nicholas

9. Here Comes Santa Clause

10. Joy to the World

Gift Ideas: More Books for Kids

There are so many great books for kids. Here are some more of my favorite book gift ideas for kids of all ages:

1. Holes

2. Because of Winn Dixie

3. popular movie novels (High School Musical)

4. How the Grinch Stole Christmas

5. Magic Tree House series

6. Amelia Bedelia

7. Magic School Bus series

8. biographies about people in any field they are interested in, from science to basketball

9. Little House on the Prairie

10. though it may not count as a book, a magazine subscription always provides great reading material throughout the year

Gift Ideas: Books for Kids

A friend blogged about what books to give kids for Christmas . The last few years I have ordered books from Scholastic throughout the year to give to kids in our extended family. Some are seasonal and some are not. Here are a few of my favorite books-for a range of ages-to give kids for Christmas:

1. The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe

2. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

3. The Gift of The Magi

4. A Christmas Carol

5. The Little Prince

6. The Mouse and The Motorcycle

7. Charlotte's Web

8. Stuart Little

9. Tuck Everlasting

10. Calvin and Hobbes comic books

what to get those who have everything

My husband and I were discussing a project idea. One of the things that came up is what do you get someone who has everything. Here are a few of my favorite ideas of what to give that special person who already has everything they want:

1. time-spend time with them just visiting or doing something you both enjoy

2. coupons-these are self made and are good to redeem for services you can provide (babysitting, car wash, etc)

3. home made goodies-this is one of my all time favorites; you can make anything-salsa, bread, ice cream

4. magazine subscription-for their favorite magazine, especially something just for fun

5. gift card for somewhere they love to visit-restaurant, symphony, etc

6. silver-this is a unique investment and now is an opportune time to buy

7. your favorite book-maybe they have never read your favorite book. if they say they don't have time to read, get it for them on tape

8. classic television-now days you can buy old TV programs-I Love Lucy, Andy Griffith, Gilligan's Island

9. photos-I love to give and get photos, especially if it is of a time we shared together and the photo is a great reminder of that occasion

10. a hand written letter-this can be a letter or poem or song written especially for that person, making it truly unique and meaningful

Christmas Gifts I am Giving

I am almost done with my Christmas shopping. Only three more gifts to get. I know what I want to do for two of them, but am looking for a good deal. Of the gifts I've bought so far, here are a few of my favorites:

1. unique photo wheels for my mom, mother-in-law, sister-in-law and brothers-in-law

2. a $50 hair dryer for my niece (paid $12.98!!)

3. $60 hair straightener for my daughter (paid $20!!)

4. airplanes for my nephews

5. clothes, clothes, clothes for my teenaged son

6. books for all the kids

7. workout clothes for my husband

8. Curious George toys for my little friend

9. a snowman hoodie towel for his new little brother

10. my dad's gift-I would put it on here cuz it IS my favorite, but he reads my blog occasionally and I really want to surprise him!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

special occasion foods

We did not have a traditional Thanksgiving dinner yesterday. It was not the first time, but we enjoy getting to eat foods we don't normally or often eat, especially those that are expensive or time consuming to prepare. Here is a list of a few of my favorite special occasion foods for which I am thankful:

1. chicken spaghetti

2. homemade enchiladas

3. shrimp (pepper shrimp!)

4. frozen oreo pie

5. homemade guacamole

6. brown sugar ham

7. steaks-sirloin or filet mignon

8. homemade pizza

9. neiman marcus cake

10. lobster

Lottery

I just finished reading the new book Lottery for an online book club discussion . The only thing I did not like about the book was the language. There were some very good things about the book. Here are a few of my favorites:

1. Perry L. Crandall-he is the main character and I love his outlook on life and the simple wisdom he shares throughout the story

2. The author seems to have a real handle on the things she wrote about

3. The simplicity of the story

4. The way that some of the simple wisdom can really hit you smack between the eyes

5. The way Perry never gave up

6. The way that Perry's real friends treated him throughout the story

7. The poignancy of the story

8. It seemed real-this could really happen

9. It really makes you think

10. A good story

wedding favors

If you are planning for a wedding, you try to minimize all the things necessary to think about. There is so much to do and plan and buy for. Sometimes, the little things can seem to bring the most stress, especially when they have not been thought of before. Wedding favors can often fall in this category. You want to do something nice, without the headache of more shopping and planning. Here are a few of my favorite things to help take care of this:

1. photo frosted glass coaster

2. personalized chocolate bars

3. personalized deluxe cooler

4. unique candles

5. photo albums

6. shaped and scented soaps

7. silver signature frame

8. cufflinks

9. deluxe bathrobe

10. jewelry

Christmas Gifts

Here is a list of some of my favorite gifts to give at Christmas. I know everyone is different, but these have often been great hits among everyone of all ages.

1. books

2. magazine subscription

3. restaurant gift card

4. retail gift card (Wal-Mart, Target, etc)

5. food gifts (bread, granola, salsa...)

6. christmas ornaments

7. the receivers favorite candies

8. photos

9. frames for above photos

10. money

Relax

When it's been a busy day or week, here are a few of my favorite ways to relax:

1. a cup of hot tea

2. one-or two-squares of mint dark chocolate

3. read a book

4. read a magazine

5. watch TV

6. take a walk

7. surf the internet

8. write blog posts

9. read other people's blogs

10. play spider solataire

One on One Backgammon

Backgammon can be a fun game to learn. It may be difficult to find opponents with whom to play. This makes learning backgammon online the perfect and easy way to learn. Or if you are an experienced backgammon master, you may not be able to fine opponents on your level against whom to play. One on One Backgammon could be the perfect answer for you. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. safe and secure online site

2. beginners can learn with easy to understand rules

3. strategies provided for beginners

4. download free backgammon software for beginners to advanced players

5. play online against other players on your level

6. learn and improve your game

7. compete in scheduled tournaments for money

8. read through backgammon articles to help improve your game

9. enjoy a 30% bonus on your first deposit

10. receive a $5 welcome bonus

Joust For Fun

Yesterday we held a tournament and feast to celebrate all that we have been learning over the past few weeks. My nephews, my daughter, my sister, my dad, myself and later my husband were all in attendance for the grand event. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. jousting knights-complete with stick horses

2. sword fights (cardboard of course)



3. archery skills (this is the real thing)



4. acrobatics (on the rings!)



5. juggling (ye olde tennis balls)

6. bobbing for apples (watching the little guys learn how to do this was priceless!)




7. spit roasted (grocery store rotisserie) chicken

8. hearing my six year old nephew talk about what kinds of dishes and utensils the people in the castles used

9. listening to the boys talk about the kinds of entertainment given at the feast (no TV)

10. my daughter remembering we MUST have salt on the table

Online Education

Learning today is not limited to a classroom. Many people are finding it much easier to get or finish a higher education by doing so online. One of the many accredited online universities helping people to accomplish their educational goals is capella university. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. online access 24 hours a day, seven days a week

2. work at your own convenience

3. fully accredited

4. offers several bachelor degree programs

5. also offers several graduate degree programs

6. now offering fifteen certificate degree programs

7. older folks don't have to feel "funny" going back to school with younger classmates

8. the university is committed to high academic excellence

9. striving to provide balanced business growth

10. serving thousands of students from all over the country as well as the world

Thank you for reading this sponsored post.

Halloween

I have never been a huge fan of Halloween, especially as an adult. I think I am rather ambivalent about it. But last night was a pretty pleasant Halloween for all of us. Here a few of my favorite things:

1. safe neighborhood

2. neighbors out visiting

3. party atmosphere

4. kid and family friendly

5. no wild teens this year

6. many kids remembered to say "thank you"

7. fun to play dress up

8. tons of candy

9. watching my kids trade over their piles of candy

10. my kids saying that this may have been the best Halloween ever

Idol Exclusive

American Idol is still a hot TV show that keeps viewers coming back for each episode each season. But you don't have to wait for the air time to stay caught up on the latest idol news. You can check out Idol Exclusive for everything you need to know about Idol. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. check Idol news anytime night or day

2. communicate with other Idol fans who are members

3. look through blogs, forums, pictures and videos

4. read the latest news from the site or on your cell phone

5. find out what others have to say about the latest Idol news

6. take polls, take part in discussions, listen to music

7. join groups for even more online fun

8. make sure everyone knows what you think about the latest Idol news

9. find widgets to place on your blog

10. it's all FREE!

Texas Renaissance Festival School Day

We were able to visit the Texas Renaissance Festival School Day. On this day, the festival is only open to school kids and their educators. It is less rowdy and no alcohol on this day. It makes for a very pleasant day stepping back into the Middle Ages. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. the jousting tournament



2. my youngest nephew wearing the same colors as the Spanish knight

3. both my nephews got to participate in sword school

4. the knight in shining armor who kept "scaring" people (folks wanted a picture next to the armor, but they did not always know there was someone inside!)



5. the lady selling toy catapults who kept shooting marshmallows at my nephews-they almost caught them in their mouths!

6. the little girl selling candied nuts-she was so cute and could speak as if in the middle ages (good day m'lady)

7. pictures on the executioner's block

8. the knight who announced the tournament-we saw him a number of times throughout the day and he recognized us and was always friendly to speak to us




9. discount tickets, free parking, allowed to bring our own lunches

10. learning can be fun!!

The Game Plan

I took my daughter to see The Game Plan. We both enjoyed the show. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. cute premise

2. Madison Pettis, cute girl, great onscreen personality

3. The Rock's rendition of "Are You Lonesome Tonight"

4. How a dad can come to love his kid

5. mild/no profanity

6. the little girl had to wear a blind fold while in the locker room

7. his buddy Sanders' attitude toward wife and family

8. learning to overcome arrogance

9. non violent

10. an enjoyable afternoon just my daughter and me

Knight's costume

Being such a cheapie, I love to do things the cheapest way possible. Especially things that kids are not going to want forever. So when it comes to making costumes, I try to go the cheapest way possible. Here are a few of my favorite things about this knight's costume:






1. cheap

2. easy to make

3. looks great

4. fun for the kids to play dress up

5. good enough to wear to the Ren Fest

6. they can wear the hoodies

7. the hoodies are easily washable

8. you can personalize them with any symbol the kid wants

9. the duct tape helmet

10. my very own knight in "shining" armour

Rumors

Last night we went to see the Neil Simon play "Rumors". I've never seen this show before and I really enjoyed it. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. the fast pace

2. the modern setting

3. the physical humor

4. the outright hilarity

5. outlandish

6. over the top

7. sometimes it got so stupid you just have to laugh

8. seeing the young people perform so well and watching their energy rise

9. affordable ticket prices

10. the ending

easy to make costume ideas

As Halloween approaches kids start making a list of costume ideas and parents scramble to get the costume all together. There are many costumes from which to choose. There are some really great easy and fun to make costumes as well. Here are a few of my favorites:

1. dalmation

2. bat

3. Rubik's cube

4. Lego

5. cow

6. cat

7. pig

8. hobo

9. pharaoh

10. scarecrow

pets

I don't like pets too much, but I know many kids do, as my daughter does. We have had a variety, some that are good and some not so good. Here are a few of my favorites or think I might like:

1. dog

2. fish

3. turtle

4. rabbit

5. guinea pig

6. hermit crab

7. frog

8. hamster

9. gecko/lizard

10. ferret

soft taco fixings

Tonight was a wonderful dinner. It is simple to prepare, easy to clean up and everyone enjoys it, as they get to make it like they like it. Our family pleasing dinner was soft tacos. Start with tortillas and fill them with what you like. Here are my favorite soft taco fixings:

1. guacamole, preferably homemade

2. lettuce

3. tomatoes

4. grilled chicken

5. grilled steak

6. sweet red peppers

7. yellow peppers

8. refried beans

9. cheese

10. carrot strips

PayU2Blog

PayU2Blog is the newest blogging for money company I've signed up with. I have really enjoyed my time with them so far. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. the ads are short-60 words

2. they have always paid on time

3. they have even paid ahead of schedule

4. although they have a "must accept" policy, I have had the chance to deny one ad that was "questionable"

5. they have provided great communication

6. quick to answer questions

7. they allow a week to complete assignments

8. they offer review incentives which include free products as well as compensation

9. blog posts are accepted almost immediately

10. very easy to work with

silver coin dealer

Monex coin dealer is the place to find your silver coins. With Monex, you can learn everything you need to know about buying silver coins. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. forty years of leading the industry in silver coin investing programs

2. offer U.S. "junk silver coins" in $1000 face value bags

3. they have made buying pre-1965 minted coins a widely accepted investment avenue

4. buying and selling coins over the phone has become the preferred method of transaction

5. Monex inaugurated the first and only financing program for buying silver coins

6. silver-in particular silver coins-offer an excellent investment opportunity

7. best silver coin prices in the industry

8. get up to the minute live silver coin prices on line or over the phone

9. offering several convenient ways to buy silver coins

10. also offering Canadian silver maple leaf coins

Thank you for reading this sponsored post.

Sue's Daily Photos

Another of my blogging friends that I've met here in this vast cyberworld is Sue . She is living a lovely life in Key West taking breathtaking photos which she is kind enough to share with us on her blog. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. her lovely photos

2. her unique perspective in her many snapshots

3. an insider's view to a tropical paradise

4. she is ready to share her love of photography and her new home

5. she has emigrated from Switzerland and at times shares a bit of her past with us

6. she is super friendly

7. she always returns comments

8. she has given me some "inside" tips when we were considering maybe visiting Key West

9. she always has a kind word

10. she has finally revealed the secret to her "mystery photo"!

RedHead Rants

Christine is a relatively new blogging friend of mine. I met her over at BlogSire's Place, and have loved her blog ever since. Here are a few of my favorite things about RedHead Rants :

1. it's a great place for a redhead to blow off some steam

2. she has a great sense of humor

3. her blog is fun and easy to read

4. she always responds to comments

5. she has some great info that she finds out in the cyber world

6. she has some other more serious blogs, but this is the one in which she "lets loose"

7. anytime she learns some new something, contest, blog tip, she is willing to share

8. we seem to have some similar interests

9. she is a workaholic, but still finds time to blog

10. she finally bought some new baking powder ! :)

Regency Cosmetology School

Cosmetology School is a great choice for many young people. The trend to stay fashionable and looking good seems to be in full swing with no signs of stopping. Regency Cosmetology School has much to offer would be cosmetologists. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. one of the fastest growing cosmetology schools in the country

2. grown from two schools to thirty campuses in approximately five years

3. fifty years of experience

4. provide high quality education and experience

5. looking forward to continued growth

6. their schools use high quality products offered by salons

7. the educational experience gained here will benefit the student, the salon community and the general public

8. the schools offer high quality salon care for the public at discounted prices

9. Regency graduates are sought throughout the U.S.

10. Regency helps their students build success

Thank you for reading this sponsored post.

Dirty Little Secret

I have made many blogging friends since I began my foray into blog nearly two years ago! One of the friends I came upon is JerseyGirl. She now has a great little blog called Dirty Little Secret . No, nothing really risque, just the "dirty little secrets of a stay at home mom". Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. she always tells it like it is

2. she shares her ups and downs both

3. she just won the cutest pair of Ryka work out shoes because she loves to dance with her kids ! :)

4. she always shares her honest opinion

5. I don't always agree with her, but I respect her approach

6. she has fun

7. she willingly shares her woes, allowing us a place to all commiserate together

8. she has a good sense of humor about it all

9. she has a great perspective on the way things are and are going

10. honesty in the way stay at home moms feel from day to day, moment to moment

Peregrine Online

Peregrine Online is an excellent travel blog. But it is even better than a travel blog. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. it is about living overseas

2. it is about traveling overseas

3. the author has lived overseas for 15 years

4. the author has done extensive travel overseas for a good portion of her life

5. she has a unique perspective

6. sometimes she travels alone, sometimes with colleagues, sometimes with kids, providing a wide array of experience

7. she is smart and funny

8. she has a lot of insight on the places she visits

9. she writes thought provoking articles about the cultures she encounters

10. it is a great blog!

Executive Recruiting

A.E. Feldman is an executive recruiting firm "specializing in executive placement and management consulting." Here are a few of my favorite things about A.E. Feldman:

1. forty years of experience

2. high standard of service and commitment

3. consistent record of successful placements has built a good reputation

4. serve both the client and the candidate

5. have built a high level of trust

6. recruiters bring a high level of experience and insight

7. recruiters' experience allows them to make the best matches for each job

8. wide array of practice areas

9. fill positions nationally

10. can fill positions from middle, executive or C level management

Thank you for reading this sponsored post.

Messy House

Since school has started back up, and our homeschool is now back into full swing, complete with a unit study on Egypt, the house is a complete mess each day. It's like a school room has exploded along with a craft store, restaurant and play room all rolled into one. But here are a few of my favorite reasons why it's good:

1. the kids are having fun

2. the kids are learning

3. extra hands making the messes means extra hands to clean them up

4. these days are passing too quickly and they will never be the same again

5. the kids are here with me

6. we are learning together

7. hands on learning means better retention

8. building bonds

9. sharing our learning and daily life experiences

10. making great memories

fast, nutritious dinners

My family is seemingly always on the run. Because of that, I am always looking for fast and easy dinner menus. They must be delicious and nutritious as well. Here are a few of my favorites:

1. black bean soup

2. seafood ratatouille

3. quesadillas

4. crock pot BBQ

5. grilled chicken breast

6. spaghetti

7. "noodle pie"

8. chili

9. grilled cheese sandwiches

10. stir fry

vending machine route

When my mom began to homeschool my youngest sister, she needed a way to work at home and yet have a flexible schedule in which to conduct my sister's schooling. For a while mom ran a vending machine route. This provided both the flexibility and the extra income needed to fit my mom and sister's needs at that time. Here are a few of my favorite things about vending routes:

1. flexibility

2. extra income

3. be your own boss

4. own the American dream!

5. 100% cash business

6. 80% profit margine

7. today's machines have expanded to dispense gumballs

8. you can even dispense toy capsules

9. diverse market

10. with the new vendstar machines you get the EZ count/E Meter to obtain the exact collection amount from each location

Thank you for reading this sponsored post.

Rudy

I just finished watching the movie "Rudy". It was a pretty good movie that the whole family enjoyed. Here are a few of my favorite things about the movie:

1. based on a true story

2. motivational

3. inspirational

4. good moral

5. good ending

6. team building

7. root for the underdog

8. shows that hard work really can pay off

9. anyone can be a hero

10. leaves you with a good feeling

Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Flavors

My family loves ice cream. I love Ben and Jerry's because you can get a variety of flavors, with all natural ingredients. They have their own top ten list , but here are a few of my favorites:

1. Karmel Sutra

2. Brownie Batter

3. Chocolate Fudge Brownie

4. Phish Food

5. Chubby Hubby

6. Mint Chocolate Chunk

7. Mint Chocolate Cookie

8. Half Baked

9. Chocolate

10. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

Personal Appliances

When I think of the way my grandparents grew up, I know that I am blessed with many modern day conveniences. Those folks who blazed the West with no easy way to wash, cook or clean were truly pioneers. I cannot imagine living today without some of the things I have become spoiled to, much less traveling over a continent without them. I am happy that I live in the day and age of modern wonders and conveniences. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. Refrigerators

2. Freezers

3. Microwaves

4. Dishwashers

5. Whirlpool Washing Machines

6. Dryers

7. Cars

8. Telephones

9. Television

10. Computer

Thank you for reading this sponsored post.

Family Night

Every week we try to make sure we have at least one night dedicated to family activities. This usually occurs for us on Tuesday nights, as there are usually no other outside demands on our family on that night. Here are a few of my favorite things about family night:

1. fun together with just me and my family

2. playing games

3. creating memories

4. connecting with the kids

5. laughing together

6. watching the kids grow and progress in certain skills

7. relaxing together

8. a quiet night in

9. everyone gets a turn doing something they enjoy

10. there is so much to do , we'll never run out of ideas!

Pictures of the Kids

Every year on our first day of school, I take some snapshots of the kids. I love doing this and it has become a tradition for us. My 14 yr old son even let me get a few of him before he left for his first day of high school. Here are a few of my favorite things about these photos:

1. it lets me see just how much the kids have grown each year

2. I can see how much change has taken place

3. a good way to hang on to the memories

4. when I am old, I will have photos to remind me of these special years

5. my kids' kids will love seeing these pictures

6. I have a great frame to keep one picture for every school year K-12

7. it's a fun tradition

8. it gets our first day of school off to a fun start

9. my daughter is learning to take some pretty good photos

10. it is a great way to share the kids' growth with out of town relatives

Starting Back to School

Starting back to school is always bittersweet, especially this year as my son has gone off to public school. I will begin homeschooling my two nephews along with my daughter tomorrow. Here are my favorite things I am looking forward to:

1. field trips

2. schedule

3. reading

4. learning about Egypt

5. taking the boys to new places

6. a new perspective

7. new opportunities

8. hoping to reach new goals

9. hoping to see some improvement in certain areas

10. hoping to see my daughter have some personal growth

Happy Birthday to My Husband

Today is my husband's birthday. I thought I would tell you some of my favorite things about him.

1. he is funny

2. he is fun and always planning some fun

3. he is a good man

4. he loves me

5. he loves his kids

6. he is talented

7. he is my best friend

8. he gives his best to everything

9. he's so cute

10. he loves and honors God above all else

What This Blog is Worth

Some blogs are better than others. Some are more fun to write. Some are easier to write. Some are even worth something . Here are a few of my favorite things about "My Favorite Things":

1. it's easy to write about anything

2. the list format is fun

3. there is always something I can find to like about things

4. it keeps a nice format for my blog

5. it's easy and fun to maintain a theme for my blog

6. it's catchy

7. it makes me money

8. my kids can help me with this one

9. there is always something to write about

10. this blog is actually worth nearly $8,000!!

My blog is worth $7,903.56.
How much is your blog worth?

Nimbus VoIP Phone System

Nimbus VoIP phone systems offer business a phone system service like none other experienced before. Nimbus allows total control over all phone systems features and calls made over any broadband system. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. designed to be user friendly and flexible

2. features plug and play, allowing phone calls to be made anywhere there is broadband web access

3. web control panels allow you to re-route extension and manage voice mail

4. just click to dial

5. reduces upfront costs

6. unlimited US calling

7. free calling to any other Nimbus VoIP phone in the world

8. good for any business, whether large or small

9. no contracts

10. no per minute fees

Favorite Recent Reads

One of my blogging buddies keeps up with a monthly reading list, so I have been trying to do the same. I try to read some each month and now try to keep track of it too. Here are some of my favorites that I have read recently or am now reading:

1. Animal Farm

2. The Glass Menagerie

3. The Last Judgement

4. The Secret Life of Bees

5. Reader's Digest

6. Proverbs

7. Does God Exist bi monthly publication

8. working on Julie of the Wolves

9. Started Sherlock Holmes last night

10. Smithsonian Magazine

Favorite Comics

There are many comic strips which provide diversion and humor throughout the day. My kids love to read them in the news paper and I have some set on my Yahoo homepage. The kids love these too and scroll back through the previous days strips to catch up on them. Here are a few of my favorites:

1. Calvin and Hobbes

2. Peanuts

3. Garfield

4. B.C.

5. Cathy

6. Ziggy

7. For Better or Worse

8. Zits

9. The Far Side

10. Family Circle

Orlando

I have been to Orlando twice. It is a fun place to visit and a great place to take the family. There is much to do there, more than I had realized. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. find lovely Orlando Villas in which to stay

2. there are 52 theme parks to visit

3. we could spend a year there and still not see everything!

4. spending time with the family

5. beaches only 40 minutes away

6. my husband can hit some top rated golf courses

7. second largest convention center

8. great shopping

9. perfect place to spend a family vacation

10. almost every attraction is family friendly

Thank you for reading this sponsored post.

reading with my son

My son is fourteen and he has still allowed me to read some books with him. I enjoy these fleeting moments we have together. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. spending some quiet time together

2. sharing great books

3. talking about the books we read

4. not many moms are lucky enough to have a teen who will listen to a story/book

5. the feeling that he hasn't completely outgrown me yet

6. a kind of tie together

7. learning through the things we read

8. learning more about my son by discussing the reading

9. simple, pleasant time together

10. it's free!

U Follow

I have just learned about the DO FOLLOW campaign going around the internet. It is good for all our blogs and thankfully, jerseygirl put up a link which made it easy for me to follow. Here are a few of my favorite things about DO FOLLOW:

1. allows link love to be spread through the internet

2. it's good for your blog and mine

3. link love helps raise page rank

4. do follow allows comments to be followed on Google

5. comment links now "count"

6. gives readers incentive to comment

7. shows commenters you appreciate them

8. easy to turn off the NO FOLLOW with these instructions

9. makes me part of a "movement" (and get a cute badge too!)

10. I can help spread link love!

Mustang Radiators

When I was in High School, my dad bought a black Mustang convertible. He would let me drive it around town, to school, and other places. I loved it and we all thought it was pretty cool. One day I was heading to my boyfriend's house and I had almost made it when the Mustang stopped. I left it on the side of the road and was luckily close enough to walk. If I’d only known then about Radiator.com. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. find a replacement for any Ford radiator.

2. they stock thousands of after stock and upgrade radiators for all models of every year

3. the perfect place to find a replacement Mustang Radiator.

4. backed by 150 warehouses across the country

5. largest selection of Mustang radiators on the web

6. keeps a full stock of cooling components for Mustang’s spanning several decades

7. connects customers with certified installation center in their area

8. site offers informative articles on radiators and cooling components

9. order directly from distributor

10. lower prices

Thank you for reading this sponsored post.

Creamaid

Creamaid is a blog advertising company that I have not written much about. There ads do not come around as often as some others, but I have been happily using them for nine months. Here are a few of my favorite things about creamaid:

1. no obligation

2. they lead you step by step

3. accept blogs which are newer and may have lower rankings

4. they provide the links and widget

5. they provide you the opportunity to let others know about the campaign

6. you can earn a referral fee for each accepted ad

7. they are usually very interesting

8. ads come from here that I've not seen elsewhere

9. you can read other people's input to the conversation

10. some have really good payouts

Herbal Tea: Throat Coat

Another herbal tea remedy I am using is the Throat Coat for sore throats. I could only find the kid's formula, so that is what I am using. Here are a few of my favorite things about this one:

1. supports throat health

2. coats the throat, easing pain

3. 95% organic ingredients

4. nice, easy taste

5. caffeine free

6. nothing artificial added

7. specially formulated for kids

8.slightly sweet, spicy flavor

9. instructions for dosage for different aged children

10. each packet has a riddle or trivia on it

Unique Wedding Favors

It seems as if every girl dreams of her special wedding day from the time she is small. She wants everything to be just right, special and unique. The folks at The Knot Wedding Shop understand this and offer unique wedding favors for such a grand occasion. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. top quality supplies

2. novelty items

3. personalize with couple's names and wedding date

4. largest internet retailer of wedding supplies

5. 24 hour accessibility

6. quick turnaround delivery for last minute orders

7. unique wedding attendants gifts

8. easy to search format

9. great "to be wed" wear

10. toll free ordering available

Thank you for reading this sponsored post.

Herbal Tea: Breathe Easy

I have not been feeling well the last couple of days. My head and nose are stuffy and my throat is really hurting. I dislike taking medicine so my friend told me about Traditional Medicinals Herbal Tea Remedies. I have been using these since last night. Here are my favorite things about the Breathe Easy Formula:

1. available at my local grocery store

2. promotes respiratory health

3. caffeine free

4. nothing artificial

5. strong smell

6. 49% organic ingredients

7. spicy-aromatic and cooling

8. somewhat bitter and astringent

9. slightly sweet

10. really does help me to breathe easier

blogging for money

It's time again to talk about my favorite reasons for blogging for money.

1. it's so easy

2. I blog anyway, why not get paid for it sometimes

3. I get to see lots of new products and services that I otherwise may miss

4. it's fun

5. somebody wants to give me money to blog??

6. I meet other bloggers

7. I can make money in the comfort of my own home

8. blog anytime of the day or night

9. spread the word for great new products and services

10. hey, making a little extra money is always good!

PEI University Real Estate Investing

Have you ever wished you could learn how to invest in real estate? Now is the best time to take a look at real estate investing. PEI University has a high success rate in teaching people to invest in real estate, and now they are making it even easier. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. Over 25 years experience in teaching adults to improve their future and gain financial independence.

2. Partnered with Carl Sheets and his book No Down Payment to educate folks on real estate investing.

3. PEI University is available on line for folks to learn the secrets to investing in real estate.

4. Last year's students bought and sold over $242 million in real estate.

5. PEI University on line is FREE of charge!

6. PEI provides you with all the tools and information needed to become a real estate investor.

7. Learn online in real time with their step by step program.

8. Learn how to generate extra monthly income and achieve lasting wealth.

9. Increase your net worth.

10. It's easy to get started right now!

eternal life solutions

With so many blogs available to read on the internet, it seems as if there is never enough time to read them all. I have recently come across a new blog, Eternal Life Solutions . Here are a few of my favorite things about it:

1. many easy to read articles

2. the article topics are interesting

3. a wide range of topics

4. up to date issues

5. tips for healthy eating

6. tips for stress relief

7. knowing that other people struggle with the same things you may struggle with

8. video recipes (the shrimp one looks delicious!)

9. diet and weight loss information

10. a nice blog to read through

smoothie

Homemade smoothies are one of my favorite treats, but I usually have them for breakfast. Here are a few of my favorite things about it:

1. easy to fix

2. quick to fix

3. adding protein powder makes it filling

4. frozen banana

5. frozen strawberries

6. frozen blueberries

7. vanilla flavor from protein powder

8. add flax seed oil for the benefit w/o the oily taste

9. easy to transport

10. delicious!

online auto insurance

My son is fourteen-and-a-half. He is learning to drive, slowly. My cousin gave us his old 1996 jeep, a five speed stick shift. My son loves it and is hoping it will be his, or at least we'll let him drive it. We told him he had to learn how first. He is doing a great job. So now, we have to look towards driver's ed and more insurance.

Buying car insurance for a teen will be a new step for us, and probably an expensive one. There are many places to search for online auto insurance quotes . Advantage Auto Quotes offers some options. Here are a few of my favorite things about that:

1. easy form to fill in

2. convenience of being able to get quote online

3. tips on ways to save money on teen driver auto policy

4. ways for seniors to save money

5. compare insurance quotes from big companies like AIG and Allstate

6. they do the leg work of searching and comparing the prices

7. they deliver the lowest and most competitive rates right to you

8. learn about GAP coverage policies

9. they work to bring you the lowest rates

10. read their informative tips online for ways to save money on your insurance

Brought to you by your friends at http://www.advantageautoquotes.com/

yesterday

Yesterday I took the opportunity to make the day a day of relaxing. I kind of took time to do some things I wanted to do. I went to a nearby town to check out a local farmer's market, which turned out to be a dud, but I did enjoy the time alone. Here are a few of my favorite things about yesteday:

1. time alone

2. shopping

3. no phone calls

4. getting a new swim suit

5. swimming (in my old swim suit--HA!)

6. taking it easy

7. making pizzas

8. eating pizzas

9. watching Andy Griffith

10. making and eating cookies

Little Things Wedding Favors

Because every couple is different and every bride wants her wedding to be unique, Little Things Wedding Favors offers a huge assortment of unique items for any and every couple. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. Choose from thousands of wedding favors and accessories

2. Competitive pricing to meet any budget

3. Get all your wedding accessories including reception and ceremony essentials

4. Purchase party and shower gifts

5. Browse the selection anytime

6. 100% satisfaction guarantee

7. Easy return policy with no restocking fee

8. Low price guarantee

9. Free shipping on orders over $250

10. 10% off $50 or more purchase with code: grandopening

My Daughter

I am wanting to take a few moments to share the good things about my kids. Too often, we left these things unsaid and only talk about what they have done wrong. Here are a few of my favorite things about my daughter:

1. her innocence

2. her love

3. she's compassionate

4. she is musically talented

5. she is smart

6. she is funny

7. she is fun to be with

8. she doesn't mind losing

9. she takes care of people and animals

10. she's a Christian

My Son

we often let our kids know when we are displeased with them. At times we fail to tell them what it is that we really like about them. My son is a great kid, but he often hears me tell him what he's doing wrong. Here are a few of my favorite things about my son:

1. he's funny

2. he's clever

3. he's witty

4. he's smart

5. he's intuitive

6. he can come up with a good solution for almost any problem

7. he's practical

8. he is a great help to have around the house

9. he is passionate and compassionate

10. he's a Christian

Online Education

In today's world, the need for higher education is readily seen. However, getting the necessary classes, degrees and certifications can be hard for many, especially adults who are also holding down jobs. Online education can be a great asset in getting the education needed to better our situations. Here are a few of my favorite things about it:

1. convenient and flexible enough to fit any schedule

2. work from anyplace with internet access

3. many online universities offer a vast selection of programs

4. many online universities are accredited

5. choose from undergraduate, graduate or certification programs

6. improvements are being made continuously

7. many are affordable

8. choose from programs in the computer field

9. choose from programs in education

10. choose from programs in public safety

Thank you for reading this sponsored post.

Mop Brigade

Our church has what is called "Mop Brigade". The members of the congregation are divided into teams that take turns cleaning the facilities. They started this many years ago in order to save the money they would otherwise spend on a janitorial service. The money saved goes toward missions efforts around the world. Here are a few of my favorite things about it:

1. more money is allocated towards missions efforts

2. more missions efforts are put into place

3. we team together to clean the building

4. only clean once a month or six weeks

5. we get to teach our kids about service and cleaning

6. we get to teach our kids about mission work

7. all ages are involved

8. automated email reminders when it's our turn

9. often go out for lunch afterward

10. it's great working together for a good cause

peanut butter

mmm, peanut is a good food staple. I always buy the natural kind so as to avoid the bad stuff about peanut butter. Here are a few of my favorite things about it:

1. You can find it at almost any store

2. cheap

3. good for you

4. filling

5. easy to fix for a meal

6. keeps well

7. high in protein

8. use it for sandwiches, sauces or desserts

9. you can feed lots of folks with just one jar

10. it tastes good!

Gold

Gold has long been a favorite of much of mankind, since the days of Ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. They have sought it for its sparkle and implication of wealth. Here are a few of my favorite things about it:

1. the sparkle and shine

2. its inherent beauty

3. its value throughout the world

4. available in coin form

5. available in ingot form

6. unique way to diversify investments

7. American eagle gold coins available for personal delivery

8. averages out over the long term

9. available in ten ounce bars or kilobars

10. instantly check out the price of gold

technorati claim

I am just now claiming my blogs on Technorati. Yes, a little slow but better late than never. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. raising my traffic

2. making my blog more visible

3. it is the right thing to do

4. it's free

5. it's easy

6. they walk you through the process

7. it's quick

8. hopefully it will make me more popular

9. it will release spiders to check out my blog

10. they provide the link I need here Technorati Profile

On Board Activities

While on our cruise ship, many folks may think we would be board, since we don't drink or gamble. But there were many other things to do while at sea. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. walk/run the track

2. attend free exercise classes

3. swim

4. read

5. nap

6. volleyball tournament

7. walk around the ship

8. see the shows

9. demonstrations

10. spend time alone with my husband

Joe Scruggs Songs

When my youngest sister was little, she used to listen to tapes of Joe Scruggs. When I had my own kids, we were sure to buy these same tapes. They are full of great kids' songs. We were even lucky enough to see Joe in concert in our town! Now, I just purchased three CD's of Joe's for gifts. Here are a few of my favorite of Joe's songs:

1. Oh By The Way

2. Abracadabra

3. I'm too Full For Broccoli

3. Deep in the Jungle

4. Rock and Roll MacDonald

5. School Glue

6. Big Toe Truck

7. Skateboard

8. Take a Nap

9. The People in the Car

10. This Little Piggy

Look Alike Sunglasses

Merchandizeliquidators has many great products to offer the store owner or wholesaler. One of these great products is look alike sunglasses. Here are a few of my favorite things about these:

1. you can find wholesale look alike sunglasses at less than wholesale prices

2. these great sunglasses all have 400 UV protection

3. they are the lastest styles

4. fashioned after name brands like Gucci, Versace, and Christian Dior

5. these sunglasses are great for T-shirt stores, flea markets, other store owners and wholesalers

6. with this wholesale sunglasses liquidators , you get a great product at a great price

7. at $25 per dozen this is a great deal

8. 20 dozen minimum order required

9. order online or call directly

10. all merchandise new and current and imported once a month


This post was brought to you by our friends at merchandizeliquidators.com

Rhapsody Crew Members

I wanted to share a few of my favorite crew members on board the Rhapsody. I was continually amazed at their energy level, their bright smiles and their never ending "pleasure" to serve. They were all truly an amazing crew and I really enjoyed my stay. They all deserve kudos. Here are a few of my favorites, who I had the chance to interact with (some to a limited degree):

1. Eric-the cruise director was a real high energy guy who really kept everyone's excitement going up until the last moment of the cruise. He was great!

2. Duncan-this is the really cute kid in charge of the rock climbing wall and the walk a mile activity. I had the pleasure to encounter Duncan almost every day. He was a very nice young man, and called me by name every time we interacted. What a doll!

3. Lilliana-our stateroom attendant. She kept everything just right for us and was a real sweetheart. We encountered her constantly keeping care of everyone in our wing and she was always wearing the biggest smile. Thanks Lilliana!

4. our table waiter-He is a very nice young man from Bali. Unfortunately, I cannot pronounce or spell his name. He was eager to serve and always aware of what we wanted to eat and had it ready to bring to us. We appreciate all the great service!

5. Adam-our assistant waiter. Another young man with a happy, and cute personality. This was his first trip and he did a fine job. He was always ready and willing to bring whatever we wanted, always had a joke up his sleeve, and stopped to talk to us when he was serving in the casual dining area as well. Great job, Adam!

6. Claire-This gal rocks! She is the on board trainer and kept us from gaining too much weight (we tried though!) She provided many free exercise classes and really worked us out during these times. You go girl!

7. Larry-I only encountered this waiter one morning at breakfast. He looked at me funny when I ordered some orange slices to go with my eggs benedict. But he brought me a whole plate full-of which I ate every one! Thank you Larry!

8. Vladimir-The same morning, he served with Larry. He took care of getting me my herbal tea. Just what I needed!

9. Zach-this guy is the one who provided much of the nightly entertainment. He was the MC for the game shows, did the tech work for karaoke, and kept tabs on the Love and Marriage game. Another high energy, fun loving crew member who helped us all have a great time!

10. Captain Anders-he did a great job on our trip. We did not feel much rocking of the boat. We got to many of our ports ahead of schedule. He was always good about communicating with us. Sadly, Captain Anders had to leave us on the second to last day of the trip. We had another good captain come to bring us home, but we missed the great communication Capt. Anders had with us. Thank you, Captain Anders!

The Rhapsody of the Seas

Having just returned from a seven night cruise on the Rhapsody of the Seas, and wishing I was still living the high life of fantasy on the seas, I thought I'd share a few of my favorite things about this ship. Later this year, this ship is being moved to Asia, so if you want to enjoy it from the US, you better hurry!

1. The elegance of design

2. The Broadway Melodies Theater

3. The Edelweiss Dining Room

4. The jogging track

5. The exercise classes

6. The FOOD!

7. The stateroom and the view

8. Earning ShipShape dollars

9. The fun activities

10. The wonderful crew members

Emerge Skin Care

Emerge Skin Care is an excellent source for a complete range of skin care products. There are many things to love about this skin care company. Here are a few of favorite things about it:

1. Founded by dermatologists and chemists

2. Offer a complete range of skin care products: face, body, sun care, and men's skin care

3. They aim to give you cleaner, brighter, smoother skin upon the first application

4. Used as directed alleviates redness and other side effects

5. Formulated to address major skin concerns

6. Keys to their success include quality and value

7. Cleansers, Toners, and Exfoliators

8. Therapeutic products

9. Done away with paper catalogs and have gone 100% internet and toll free phone based, saving 15,000 pounds of paper and many trees

10. FREE mini samples

Orlando Escape

My family had a wonderful escape to Orlando, Florida the December of 2002. Since then, we have been planning on our next trip to this magical city. We have our sights set on 2008. Here are a few of my favorite little known facts about the city:

1.According to Carlson Wagonlit Travel's 2006 Travel Trends Survey, Orlando is the second most popular domestic travel destination in the country (Las Vegas placed first).

2.Out of the estimated 50 million tourists who visit Orlando each year, over 2 million are international visitors, with the majority of foreign tourists coming from the United Kingdom.

3.There are now 20,000 to 25,000 rental properties in Central Florida, mostly located near the theme parks.

4.The official nickname of the city of Orlando is “The City Beautiful,” although it is also known as “O-Town.”

5.Ever wonder why there are so many Olive Gardens and Red Lobsters in town? Orlando is the corporate headquarters of Darden Restaurants, which also runs the Bahama Breeze, Smokey Bones, and Seasons 52 restaurants.

6.Even though few people outside of Florida knew where Orlando was before Walt Disney World opened in 1971, the city of Orlando had been around for more than century before that; it was incorporated in 1875.

7.Orlando is the county seat of Orange County, Florida, although the vast citrus groves for which the county was named no longer exist.

8.Before there was Disney, there was also a considerable amount of cattle ranching in Central Florida; you can still see cattle grazing along certain stretches of the 417 GreeneWay Expressway.

9.Although many of Orlando’s citizens (especially the most famous ones) are originally from somewhere else, there are a few celebrities who were born and raised in Orlando, including Wayne Brady and Delta Burke.

10.Beat generation icon Jack Kerouac lived in the College Park neighborhood of Orlando during the time his novel On the Road was published in 1957.

The folks at Orlandoescape.com can tell you even more!

Montucky

Montucky has been a favorite blogger of mine for some time. Lately he has gotten a new camera and a renewed desire to hike around photographing his area to share with those of us less fortunate to live anywhere else besides Montana. Here are a few of my favorite things about his blog:

1. so nice to talk to

2. always has an encouraging word

3. His pictures are always beautiful

4. You are always surprised by what he will photograph next

5. a true, down home way about him

6. he has hiked around 700 miles this year

7. he loves his world and wants to share that love with us

8. he wants to help protect his world and is doing something about it by sharing that with us

9. fascinating things are always showing up in his blog

10. very educational-a virtual field trip

BlogSire

Blog Sire has been one of my favorite bloggers for a while now. I met him last year on a now defunct site, but have been able to keep up with him through his other blog. Here are a few reasons why he is one of my favorites:

1. he is super friendly to everyone

2. witty and is always good for a laugh

3. he really has a knack for blogging the money way

4. he is always ready to share a tip for others to make a few bucks on their blog

5. he has great ideas

6. he is always ready for fun

7. no holds barred with BlogSire!

8. he always has something interesting in his blog

9. he has helped me get things straight with my blogs

10. though he may be the BlogSire, he still has time for us lowly bloggers!

Online University Podcasts

Because Podcasting is such a great way to reach folks today, Capella University has lately begun podcasting interviews with students who are currently attending their online university. Here are a few of my favorite things about these podcasts:

1. They are brief-only 15 minutes, making it possible to listen to in a short break of time

2. They are relevant for people wanting to learn more about online courses

3. Regularly updated, getting different students’ perspectives

4. Available through the Capella University website

5. You can subscribe to the podcast RSS feed

6. They are available through iTunes

7. Recent interviews include a program manager for the Joint Staff Training Program at the Pentagon and a family physician with her eye on becoming U.S. Surgeon General

8. Interesting to get a first person point of view

9. Learn about the University’s online education and what it means for people today

10. Learn how to earn an online degree


Thank you for reading this sponsered post.

Recent Books I've Read

Yes, I love to read. Lately my sis has been keeping an updated blog each month of what she reads. So as not to be bested by her, I've been trying to keep track of all my reading. Here are some of my favorite recent reads:

1. Psalms

2. The Moon by Night

3. Reader's Digest

4. Bladerunner

5. Murder on the Orient Express

6. The Historian

7. Ella Minnow Pea

8. The Heart of a Lion

9. I've started The Story

10. Jonathan Livingston Seagull

Water Aerobics

At the beginning of July, I joined a water aerobics class at our city pool. I love it! Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. working out in the water keeps you cooler

2. natural resisitance

3. no joint pain

4. fun

5. easy

6. cheap

7. doesn't feel like a work out

8. feels good

9. total body workout

10. I can really feel the effects

Orlanda Attraction Tickets

If you want to go to Orlando (like we do next year) there is a great place online to get your area attraction tickets. I love being able to shop online and getting great discounts. This place offers both! Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. the convenience of online shopping

2. discount price guarantee

3. buy Walt Disney World Tickets

4. buy Universal Studios Tickets

5. buy Sea World Tickets

6. largest discount ticket store in Florida

7. member of Better Business Bureau

8. convenient location

9. toll free phone number

10. no hidden fees

shopping spree

Ok, I admit, I've been shopping for new items for our upcoming cruise trip. I have spent a couple of different days trying to get things ready. Here are a few of my favorite purchases:

1. light blue side sling back pack

2. big white floppy hat with embroidered turquoise flowers

3. khaki shorts

4. dark brown shorts

5. Columbia brand cargo shorts

6. Nike dri fit polo shirt

7. sleeveless printed blouse

8. navy blue board shorts

9. hot pink board shorts

10. $2 and $3 dollar (nice) T shirts

Pampered Chef tools

I love my Pampered Chef kitchen tools. So do many of my friends. They are well made products that make working in the kitchen a little easier. Here are a few of my favorites:

1. pizza baking stone

2. rectangular baking stone

3. skinny scraper

4. chopper

5. classic scraper

6. bamboo tongs

7. paring knife

8. square griddle

9. classic batter bowl

10. micro cooker

Sports Credit Card Offers

Choosing a credit card can often be confusing. Now creditcardsearchengine.com has made the work a little easier. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. The exciting new designs, including the sports credit card offers

2. One of the longest running credit card search engines on the internet

3. Compare credit cards to find which is right for you

4. Anyone from business owners to students can shop for, compare and apply for a credit card online

5. Search for cards with rewards offers

6. Look for credit cards with low interest and APR rates

7. Find a card for those with bad credit

8. Search for cards from top issuers like J.P. Morgan Chase, Citibank, Bank of America,

9. Find leading brands such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover

10. Free, easy and convenient


Thank you for reading this sponsered post.

Anticipation

Next week we are leaving to take a cruise, our very first. My husband and I will be celebrating our 20 anniversary. I am really looking forward to this. Here are a few of my favorite things I am looking forward to:

1. a vacation with my husband

2. a CRUISE!

3. lots of relaxation

4. time AWAY

5. buffets

6. seeing the Mayan Ruins

7. snorkeling or maybe even learning to dive

8. the beach

9. the food

10. being together

The Simple Life

Often, the best things in life are the simple pleasures. Here are a few of my favorite summertime simple pleasures:

1. catching fireflies

2. making lemonade

3. sipping that lemonade

4. a letter from a friend

5. the splash of a pool

6. walking the dog

7. a package in the mail

8. getting a phone call from my son at camp

9. a bargain on summer sandals

10. hearing a child's laugh

Her Fab Life

Calling all urban, hip, trendy young women to take a moment in their cyber jaunts to check out this wicked new site, Her Fab Life . This is the place to go to find out what's hot and happening. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. select your city to find out all you need to know about what is hot and happening in your area

2. find out the latest, up to date fashion news

3. be first to try out the newest restaraunts and bars

4. be the first to find out about new store openings

5. locate nearby new hotels and spas

6. be first to find out the hottest local happenings

7. get the latest scoop on the hot guy of the week

8. see what tips are available for your hot guy

9. FREE and easy to use

10. when you register, you can share your latest Fab Finds

pizza toppings

I love pizza! One of my favorite things is to make a wonderful homemade pizza for our family. It takes a lot of time, but it is oh so worth it. Here are a few of my favorite toppings:

1. Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo sauce

2. cheese

3. tomatoes

4. spinach

5. zucchini

6. red peppers

7. yellow peppers

8. mushrooms

9. olives

10. more cheese

games

I have always loved to play games. I grew up in a family playing games with all of us, or at times just my sisters and I. Here are a few of my favorites, now and in days gone by:

1. scrabble

2. clue

3. trivial pursuit

4. payday

5. monopoly

6. sorry

7. parcheesi

8. $10,000 pyramid

9. uno

10. yahtzee

Buying Appliances

A couple of years ago, we replaced many of our appliances, due to some remodeling brought about by water damage. One of our purchases was one of the line of Maytag Dishwashers . Like many folks, we wanted to do some product research before heading out to buy. It is so easy to search for products on line rather than driving all over town comparing products and prices. Now, Krillion makes this even easier. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. localized search lists

2. compare appliances online

3. compare prices

4. save time

5. save gas

6. no dealing with pushy sales people

7. no dealing with incompetent sales people

8. choose between many brands of appliances

9. shop and compare at my convenience

10. go to the store when ready to buy

This is based on information from Blogitive.

home again

After spending a week cooking at camp, it's always great to get home again. As much as I like helping with the camp, there are some things I do miss at home. Here are a few of my favorite things about coming home from camp:

1. seeing my son

2. sleeping late

3. being lazy for a whole day

4. my bed

5. my shower

6. my bathroom

7. peace and quiet

8. my mom bought groceries for me

9. just relaxing

10. no demands

summer desserts

I just returned from a week cooking at a church camp for third through sixth grade students. Each year we have the same menu, but I am reminded of some really great recipes each time. Here are a few of my favorite summer desserts, many which we serve at camp:

1. ice cream

2. frozen chocolate mousse

3. frozen lemonade pie

4. strawberry delight

5. chocolate "stuff"

6. rice krispie treats

7. chocolate chip cookies

8. chocolate chocolate chip cookies

9. snickerdoodles

10. chocolate cake

Adult Education

As we become adults, our time of learning does not stop. For many of us, we have the desire to pursue formal education into our adulthood, but perhaps may feel as if we do not have the time. Now that the internet has made online adult education a possibility, many more adults can opt to continue their education while working. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. online schools allow you to study any where you can get a computer

2. you can study any time that is convenient for you

3. online universities allow you to work around your schedule

4. online courses offered in certificate programs

5. online classes available in undergraduate degrees

6. online adult education can help you obtain graduate degrees

7. studies available in every country

8. professors are able to pursue their goals

9. many online schools, like Capella University, are accredited

10. helps you to reach your goals

This blog post was is based on information provided by Blogitive. For more information, please visit Blogitive.com.

Blog Comments

Blog Sire is always sharing good blogging tips with anyone who takes the time to stop by his place. He recently spoke about the advantage of commenting on blog posts . Here are a few of my favorite things about comments on blogs:

1. open communication

2. lets you know what others think of what you have to say

3. adds a bit of fun to the blogging experience

4. lets you know someone is reading your stuff

5. make new friends

6. provides a link to your blog

7. the interaction can be fun

8. is a gateway to finding new blogs

9. raises blog traffic

10. provides a drawback to the one who left the comment

Curtain Call

My daughter has been involved in community theater for five years now. It is always lots of fun. But when the show is over, it is sometimes a relief as well. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. not going to rehearsal every night

2. saving on gas money

3. more free time

4. not having to get cleaned up and "presentable" every night

5. not rushing around at the last minute

6. not having to have dinner at 5pm

7. not having to have two kids in two places at the same time

8. a quiet night in

9. another great memory created

10. looking forward to the next show

Silver and Gold

It may be true that all that glitters is not gold, but it sure is a pretty sight to see. Right now may be the best time to invest in either silver or gold bullion . Here are a few of my favorite things about it:

1. unique investment or gift

2. silver, gold, other precious metals are available for delivery

3. available in coin or ingot form

4. world demand for silver exceeds production

5. gold can help to diversify investments

6. above ground stockpiles of silver are low

7. the U.S. government is a silver buyer

8. get one ounce coins or fractional sized coins

9. been changing lives since ancient days

10. one of the best investment opportunities going today

This is based on information from Blogitive.

Seven Random Things

I am going a little side trip today with the 7 Random Things game. I was tagged by Domestik Goddess whose got a great new web page. The other folks she tagged have some fun blogs too, so be sure to check those out as well.

The Rules: Each player starts with 7 random facts/habits about themselves. People who are tagged need to write their own blog post with their 7 things as well as these rules. You need to tag 7 others and list their names on your blog. Remember to leave a comment for them letting them know they have been tagged and to read your blog.

1. I used to think Jimmy Wynn was one of my best friends

2. My parents ran a donut shop which we went to every morning in the wee hours. My sis and I had cots in the back to sleep on

3. I got stitches on my chin when I was 5 years old

4. I played softball and basketball in my younger days

5. I participated in and won several bible quiz competitions in my teenaged years

6. I have homeschooled my children for nine years

7. My twentieth wedding anniversary is next month

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My tagees will be:

Hi Fidelity -maybe she can do a couple more than five on her list

That Girl Tasha -a new blogging friend, want to play along?

familyfunandfaith -maybe this blog fanatic can post a list before he leaves town again?

RedHead Rants -a fun new blog

Kevin the Collie -no one said I can't have a dog play along

Mig -check out your dreams unleashed here

jameo -a great blog full of tips of all kinds

Nancy Drew

I have never read any of the Nancy Drew books. My daughter has been reading them for several years now, so she was thrilled when the new movie came out. We went to see it on Friday. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. I haven't read the books, so I didn't have any preconceived notions about what should/should not be in the movie

2. fairly innocent overall

3. great role model

4. wholesome and innocent fun

5. strong lead female character

6. fun for my daughter

7. fun with my daughter

8. we rarely go to the movies, so a nice change

9. went on opening day

10. may motivate some girls to read the books

The Martha Stewart Show

I am not a huge fan of Martha Stewart, but on a few occasions this summer I have seen bits of her show. Here are a few of my favorite things about it:

1. I usually learn something

2. learn some yummy recipes

3. see regular folks make unique recipes

4. get some good ideas

5. something to watch when there is nothing better on

6. see some unique animals

7. get unique craft ideas

8. nothing offensive

9. easy to listen to

10. when all else fails, I can grab a nap

Big Paw Designs

Our dog's birthday is coming up. And just in time to find the perfect present for our Queen Sheba, Big Paws Designs has the perfect selection. If you are looking for items for your dog or cat, be sure to check them out. Here are a few of my favorite things:

1. The little green bean doggie toy

2. the perfect pewter collar charms

3. fire hose bumper doggie toys

4. great selection of collars

5. great leash selection

6. cute dog bowls

7. dog treat tins

8. dog pick up bags

9. rescue themed items

10. recipes for doggie treats

Orlando Vacation Villa Rentals

We have not been to Orlando since 2002. Our kids are ready and asking to go back. We are hoping to make a family trip sometime next year. Since our kids have gotten bigger, we may look at Orlando vacation villa rentals for a place to stay. Here are a few of my favorite things about this:

1. a larger place to stay

2. a home away from home

3. pool homes mean we don’t have to share the pool with others

4. check dates and availability

5. look for package deals

6. rates are competitive with standard hotels

7. rent the size that will best suit our needs

8. get up to the minute news on all things Orlando

9. find articles and information to help us come up with the best vacation plan

10. search at my convenience

This is based on information from Blogitive.