Valentine Tree

I frequently joke about how long it has taken me to get my Christmas decoration's down and on the 11th of January I was finally successful! I did want to share a quick idea for those who might still have that tree up.
Carol S. This one's for you and your dilemma! :)
I leave up one of my tree's every year (until I get tired of looking at it) and coordinate it with the upcoming holidays. For Valentines I took my red, white and silver bulbs, tied them with some ribbon from Tai Pan (love that store).

I also purchased (from Tai Pan) some silver and big red plastic hearts.

I added red lights to the tree, some red Christmas garland and black and white ribbon for a little variety. Makes for a festive Valentine's day and fun for the kids ( very inexpensive).

They are going to write something they love about each sibling on a heart and we are going to add that to the tree as well (family night activity) .
The same can also be done for Easter if you can stand to have your tree up that long.

"As Seen On TV"

I've decided to stray a little from my normal blogging routine and post a little something that might hopefully bring a smile to your face as well as stir up some interesting conversation. I expect all who reads to leave a personal testimony because I don't believe for one second you haven't experienced something similar.
Welcome to my topic of...
"AS SEEN ON TV"
Those of you who have experienced pregnancy know all to well the late, sleepless nights in front of the television. You also know that much to our dismay the only thing to watch is an infomercial or two. That's of course how it happened. I saw the most amazing hair styling tool, it's name...
The Instyler

It is silver, shiny and has a rotating barrel. The only thing it requires is a gentle swoop down with your hand and the results...you'll have the most gorgeous mane around. Well of course who can't resist an easy way to get gorgeous hair? Not to mention all the celebrities us it. Oh yes and for only three easy payments of this and we will throw in a free some of that, what's not to love. It was apparently calling my name because before I knew it I was on the Internet ordering this magnificent device. Three weeks later I received my magic tool and took it straight up to my bathroom to see the transformation on my hair. What disappointment! It was heavy, noisy and did nothing more magical than my straight iron would do. Needless to say it has made it's way back in the box and to the post office. (Thank heavens for 30-day trials (:) I laugh as I think back to the times the "As seen on TV" products have gotten the best of me. Devices that cook meat in the microwave (yuck) , Sandwich pocket maker (not bad), The magic bullet (Rich was on board with this one, works fine but we don't use it much), Vitamins to enhance your bust size (yea right) and this is the best one... rubber devices that look like actual boobs, stick them in your bra and walla! (ridiculous, those got sent back as well). One day I will learn.
Now that I have divulged my nonsense I would love to know some of yours... even if your a first time visitor.

Happy Birthday Rach!

My sister makes my life easier to live,

She is someone I can share my likes and dislikes with,
I tell her my secrets and feelings
And ask she do the same,
Sometimes we are mischievous
And she will take the blame.
She knows those things I dream of,
Places that I've been,
She accepts the person I've become,
She has become my very best friend.

You've been my sister for 27 years,
We talk, we laugh and shed some tears.
At times there may have been name calling,
Some pushing and some pulled hair
But through these little trials
We turned out quite a pair.
Time and distance may separate us,
But no matter where we roam,
whenever I am with you,
it's just like being home.
Happy Birthday Rach!
I love You
(and I know you love me too) :)

Thanks for being a Great Sis!