A Day at Our Man Made Beach PT 2

Not long ago I posted a little bit about the day I took my boys to our local man-made beach. It might not be the ocean, but it’s a nice break away from reality for a few hours on the weekend. Here are a few photos I wanted to share with you.

Tomorrow

Tomorrow I have a long trip ahead of me. I'm taking my oldest son back to Oklahoma for school, which is about a 6 hour trip from me. Then, we'll be heading straight back here which is another 6 hours, and to top it off, I had to work today. Luckily I have the next 3 days off, so I can somewhat relax. I'm hoping during that time frame to be able to work some more on my novel.



Joy Smith also known as The Insane Writer, is the author of the Sci-Fi novel, The Generation. You can email her at silent_beautie@yahoo.com She can also be found on Twitter @theinsanewriter and you visit her official website at www.theinsanewriter.com.WomenFreebies.com - Enter to Win Royal Secret II Perfume

A Long Drive

It's been a very long day and a long drive, but in the end it is always worth it. I have my oldest son for spring break and I am really looking forward to his visit. Then I will hopefully be visiting with my other two sons, which I can't wait for either! I always miss my boys and it's always nice to be able to get to spend time with them when we're miles apart.


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Kiwi -It's What's For Breakfast

This morning was one of those mornings that I decided to clean out the refrigerator for breakfast. I had a kiwi that had been in there for a little while now and I hate wasting food. So I sliced this simple treat up and induldged in it for breakfast.

Usually I don't even eat breakfast, but lately I've learned if I skip meals I get very bad headaches and that was proof last night. I've also learned that junk food is only okay once in a great while and as so many of us already know, you are what you eat. It's also not a good example to be setting for our kids.

Not too long ago the kids and I started experimenting with our new found friend, a fun shaped popsicle tray. So far we've made kiwi popsicles, herbal tea popsicles and plain old tea popsicles. In the beginning I thought it would be a bad thing to have since popsicles are generally loaded with sugars and other fake ingredients, but I've since learned it's not the popsicles that are bad, it's what we parents put into them.

So I'm wondering, what you as readers enjoy as a healthy breakfast and what ingredients you would include into the popsicle trays for a special treat?

Photo Taggin'

I have a wonderful new friend Gena from Serene Moments that just photo tagged me. She has so many awesome photos on her blog and her latest is absolutely adorable!

Okay, so the rules are you go to your photo files and pick the 10th photo. Then, you post it to your blog. I must admit, I cheated. I don't have files in my pictures folder. I have a lot of folders with even more pics.lol. So, I randomly picked a fave of mine that I've posted here before and absolutely love!

The photo is of Chris my oldest son when he was 12. It was taken a few years ago at my father-in-law's house. Since then we've moved on and the water slide took it's last breath that very day, but I love this photo! What do you think?

Okay, so I know I'm supposed to tag other people, but life is busy and I have no idea who would love to play! So if you want to post your own photo and tag it, drop me a line. I'd love to see your photos!

Kids, Summer and Swimming

The kids have been begging us to go to the pool already. While it's officially not warm enough yet, there will more than likely be a few trips to the local Independence, Kansas Park Pool in their near future.

We did have a pool when we first purchased this house. That was one of the biggest features that attracted us to this house in the first place. It was the month of may when we moved in, so it was the perfect time to purchase pool supplies for our new pool.

Unfortunately we soon learned we had our work cut out for us. You see, one of the biggest issues was also the pool. The previous owner neglected this home and the pool. We learned from neighbors that he never cleaned it and even swam in the water when it was green. Ewww. We also learned that the water contained a family of frogs! Our swimming pool was becoming a pond!!

In the end we decided to take down the pool for fear of our kids safety and the repairs we found it needed after draining it. Such a shame. I kind of miss it, but I think it was for the best at that time. Maybe the day will come again when another pool will be in our life. For now their is always the park's.

What America is Truly All About

This is what America is truly all about. Despite the economy meltdown, there is still a little hope to smile after all.

It Leaves Me Speechless

It's cold and temperatures outside are at freezing level. You're on your way to drop the kids off to your ex's house. The car winds up in a snowdrift and you can't get it out. What's your first instinct?

Well, if you're like most parents, you'd make sure your kids are okay, keep the heater running and call or wait for help. But, apparently there are some real idiots out there like the father from Jerome, Idaho who sent his kids packing BY THEMSELVES 10 miles to their mother's house on Christmas Day!!!!

Even worse was the fact that he was not alone with the children. His cousin was with him and after he sent his children walking he got his car our of the snow and drove HOME!!!!!

Sadly the little girl who was 11 years old died from hypothermia.

It leaves me speechless to think that a parent would do something like this. We all make stupid mistakes when raising our babies, but this is beyond words and beyond stupidity. I'm glad to hear that the father could face life in prison.

Review of MagNext for Kids

I'm not a big fan of letting kids under 13 play online without constant supervision, but I might be able to see myself easing up a little for kids 13 and older on MegaBrands' MagNext .

The website is based off of the building pieces known as magnetics. Only the website is a free game where you play with the marble looking balls in various colors. The interesting thing is you can build and collect and you can race them on racetracks or run them on a roller coaster ride. Kinda cool in my opinion and it gives the kids something to do on a rainy day.

The only thing I did notice, however. If you have a computer that is old or slow like mine, you're better off skipping this website. Also, make sure you're keeping an eye on your kids' activities. Although I didn't see any real danger while playing, it's all too easy to lie about your age on this website. All they ask for when you sign up is an email address, your username and whether you’re under 13 or over 14.

I could have easily just clicked the, I’m under 13 button and there would have been no questions asked. Even the, I’m over 14 button is a bit leery since as I said, anyone can join the site.

It's a neat site, but I’d really recommend that you try the site out yourself before you allow your kids to do so.

Top Toys To Stimulate The Mind

Top Toys To Stimulate The Mind

The Holidays are over and done with, leaving a whirlwind of wrapping paper and new toys strewn about the house. Some may be used once or twice and forgotten about quickly, others received may become life long favorites. When it comes to shopping for your kids, how do you sift through all the junk and find a toy that's both fun and educational? You want something that's more exciting than a book, but at the same time it should inspire some sort of stimulating activity, whether it is physical or mental. Well, here's a list of some of the hottest toys, designed with your kids' minds in mind!

Toys for Toddlers (Ages 1 - 3)

• Yookidoo Discovery Dome: This fun play set for toddlers encourages physical and cognitive stimulation through imaginative play. The dome includes ball play, shape sorting and peek-a-boo games. Bright colors, lights and sounds add to the overall experience - engaging your child's senses. With plenty of space under the dome, the Yookidoo Discovery Dome encourages cooperative play. Oh, and the dome folds away for easy storage! Perfect! Price: $100 at The Discovery Channel Store
  

Toys for Pre-Schoolers (Ages 3 - 5)

• LeapFrog Tag Reading System & Game Bundle: Now I know I said earlier that books are a boring gift idea...LeapFrog is a book that's actually fun! Tag is a touch reading system that is designed to fully engage a child while reading about his favorite characters. Simply touch the "Tag Reader" to the pages and characters come alive - speaking and singing to your child! With more than 20 books to choose from, your kids will learn the joys of reading in a fun and innovative way! Price: $50 - $70
  

  
  

• Step2 Art Master Activity Desk: Get your child in touch with his or her creative side with this arts and crafts table from Step2. Its huge work surface lifts up to reveal extra storage for all of the essential supplies. It comes with a 15 inch stool which is both comfortable and sturdy! The desk also features a handy push button light (which shuts off after 5 minutes).Price: $80
  

Toys for Grade Schoolers (Ages 6 - 9)

• LeapFrog Didj Custom Gaming System: Also from LeapFrog, the Didj Custom Gaming System is a hand held gaming system for the grade schooler in your family. Connect it to your computer and play action-packed games, sharpening your child's studying skills. Playing each game earns you points, which can be traded for cool downloads allowing you to personalize and customize your game system to your liking. Interactive and educational. A perfect combo. Price: $80
  

  
  

• Balitono Works of Ahhh...Painting Sets: From Balitono, comes a group of fun painting projects designed with your creative child in mind. Each set includes an item for your child to paint (a dollhouse
  dresser, for example), non toxic paint and artist quality brushes. These fun painting sets are sure to inspire the artist in your child. What's more, made from natural, sustainably harvested hardwoods and featuring non-toxic paints - this toy is all "green"! Eco-friendly toys are in this season! Price: $12 - $15
  

Toys for Tweens & Teens (Ages 10 & Up)

• Project Runway Graphic T-Shirt Design Studio Set: Even if your kids don't watch Project Runway on Bravo TV, they are sure to enjoy this fun and artistic crafts game. This fun set has all your child needs to be the next big thing in fashion! The set includes 6 fabric markers, the Cooler Jeweler Tool (gem and stud setting tool), 50 gems, 50 studs, 2 yards of ribbon, stencils, patterns and an idea book! Your child will be creating some fabulous T-shirts in no time! Price: $25 at Amazon
  

  
  

• Guitar Hero: On Tour for Nintendo DS: Guitar Hero is such a fun game for both kids and parents alike! On Tour offers the same fun as the real game in a hand held, bite-size version. Hook the guitar grip to your Nintendo DS and rock out to the tunes of Nirvana, No Doubt and more! You can customize your own rock character - choosing clothes, hairstyles and more! Interactive, intuitive and so much fun - this is the must have game for teens and tweens alike! Nintendo DS sold separately Price: $50
  

As you can see, if you're trying to find a toy that's the perfect blend of fun and learning - your options are abundant! Some of these games are so much fun that you might feel the need to borrow them after the kids go to bed!

Water and Bubble Fun

A few months ago I received to Spinmaster products, Aquadoodle and Bath Blizzard to review. Both are creative toys that keep kids busy with play. And while that may be true for some, it's not for all.

The Aquadoodle is an excellent toy if you don't have a child who isn't picky about their artwork. The drawback is the water pen that the mat uses isn't going to keep picky artists happy since one mistake and your child will have to wait for it to dry. And by that time the entire drawing is gone. Another problem is if your kids are like mine, they like to hang their artwork up for display and obviously it's not an option. Aside from that, the Aquadoodle is a great choice for those with kids who draw all over everything. There's no mess or clean up which is great!



The Bath Blizzard my step-kids were not impressed with. Maybe it's the type of bubble bath that the Blizzard comes with, but her complaint was it didn't make enough bubbles and she was right! The good news is it's really about the only complaint she had. Unfortunately it was also only a one time attention grabber since it doesn't produce many bubbles. The one thing I did notice however, the bubble action does last about 10 minutes longer than what is stated in the product manual.

All in all I think if you have kids that are still young enough not to care about drawing mistakes or big bubbles, these products will be some awesome entertainment for your child!

Oscar the Grouch Puzzle's Me

My kids love puzzles, so when I received the Kid K'nex Oscar the Grouch Building Set, I was excited. I loved Sesame Street as a child and was excited to see Oscar as a puzzle. However, after checking out some of the pieces for the puzzle, I was a bit puzzled myself. The building set is intended for ages 2 and up. But, there is a long skinny puzzle piece (part of his leg) that could easily get jammed in the back of a toddler's throat or poke an eye.

While I love Oscar the Grouch and the little pet worm that comes along with the set, I really can't see a 2-3 year old playing with these without constant adult supervision. Other than that, I think this might be a cute Christmas idea for ages 4 and up! Below is a photo of the product I received. Cute huh?

Window Shopping For Christmas

This is the first week that we haven't had the kids at home in a very long time, so it's going to feel weird not having them around. Last night instead of wandering straight home after we dropped the kids off, we did a little window shopping. It's hard to do any really Christmas shopping here since there are no good places to shop at. It's easy enough to buy things online, but my husband and I actually like to see the product in person before we buy it. There have been times in the past where we've purchased something online and then found the product to be far different than what we expected. So I think for the most part, we'll be doing most of our Christmas shopping, locally this year.

Neewollah

This past week was Neewollah. It's our town's local event that has actually made a very good reputation for itself. As a matter of fact people come all the way from California just to be here.

For us, this year almost never happened, however. My husband was recently transferred to night shift at work and because the company he works for is short on decent employees, they're behind on their work. And of course being behind means they have to work even on their original days off. Does it mean more money? Not really. Uncle Same gets a majority of it.

However, at the last minute the company decided to let its employees off a little earlier than planned since the employees worked their asses off and then put up a fight about missing out on Neewollah. So, my husband was able to go downtown to enjoy the festival with us.

We had planned to do a few activities since money is always tight. However, we ended up splurging more than we probably should have.lol We enjoyed different foods from the vendors. Our favorite was cheesecake on a stick although the kids decided it was just way too much for them in the end. Then we headed for the white tigers cages where my husband was able to feed a full grown tiger. I'd tried to snap pics, but unfortunately my camera decided to pull a "Let's Stop Working" number and I was unable to snap any pics. Ironically after the feeding the darn camera started working again!

After visiting the tigers we headed for the haunted house which was more funny than scary. The kids enjoyed themselves, however. Our final stop was the rides, but because it cost $3 a ticket to ride, the kids got to choose one ride only. After that we listened a little to country music singer Terry Clark. I had never even heard of her until Neewollah announced her show.

Even though I didn't get any photos from the festival, I did manage to snap some cute pics of the kids during the kiddie parade. An event that sadly my husband did miss because of work. I hope you enjoy the photos as much as we do.

Playing Bingo with Disney

I am a game lover, but anymore it's rare for me to be able to sit down and enjoy anything fun. When I visited my mother-in-law in Kansas City a while back, one of the things that we did was visited the casinos and played bingo. I love that game and miss it! It reminds me of when I played bingo as a child.

Although it is no longer legal, I would sit beside my great aunt and play her cards during the game. If I won, I would tell her and she would yell out the BINGO! For helping her with the game she usually gave me some of the prize money.

Times have changed and today bingo and winning prize money is for adults only. Children are no longer allowed to participate in their bingo games. So instead, there are kids'games like Disney Bingo, which can be just as fun! The great thing about the Disney Bingo is that its on DVD. Interactive games are wonderful, I think. And while the prize might not be money like I received when I was a kid, parents can easily create their own special prizes for the winners of the game.

Maybe a piece of candy or a free day where a child can rent a movie of his or own choosing? The winners possibilities are endless and so is the fun. If this sounds like a blast to you, remember, Christmas time is just around the corner. I'm a big fan of Amazon.com because of their free shipping and I've already seen that they carry Disney Bingo!

Check out the video and let me know what you think....

How to Never See Your Child Again.

After we got our income tax rebate check back, my husband treated himself to the new Rockband game and another Guitar Hero guitar. The result? I never saw my oldest son again!LOL Interestingly enough it was the same result with my step-children.LOL As proof, here are some pics of them playing. Unfortunately there's no real lighting in this house, and I don't have a real camera, so the pics are a bit dark and distorted..

My son on the drums and my husband on the guitar. They were not impressed with me snapping this photo. The flash distracted them from their concentration on the game.lol

My husband's son on the drums and as you can barely see, my husband sitting back and enjoying the show. No complaints about getting their photos taken here! :)

My husband's daughter on the mic. More than likely she was singing "Maps" by the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs. It now happens to be one of her favorite songs from Rockband and real life.lol

The Weekend Has Gone.

It's definitely been an interesting weekend. There really hasn't been anything too exciting happen. Same old people same old thing. Some people I have learned, never change.

I'll give you an interesting example of the past week. Twice now a certain someone has hinted big time that they're completely broke. It was a big enough hint that it was obvious they were hoping we'd pay their bills once again. If we had the money and it was anyone else, it wouldn't be a problem. But this person isn't really broke and we know this from past experience and from the fact that they blew all of their money on a shopping spree over the weekend. So, that would be why they are broke. Sigh. I love shopping too, but food and a home are more important. And children are a number one priority verses shopping sprees! So I am a bit miffed that their kids are less of a concern at the moment.

The rest of the weekend went whizzing by. I can't believe that tomorrow is a Monday! Wow. I think I really do need a vacation because I can't remember doing anything over the weekend, let alone enjoying it.lol

An Update on My Kids and My Debt Goal

First off, I must than Bokjae and his beautiful wife for their continued efforts in helping me with my kids. They sent me another $20 last night. They are such wonderful people and two of my great friends. If you have not visited their blog: Listening, Learning, Living, please drop by and say hi. I promise you will not be disappointed.

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Associated Content: $4.00

I also met my goal of $12.50 for the day for the credit card I want to pay off. I am very excited about this and will continue to make an effort to meet that goal until that card is paid off. It will be $50 dollars less a month I have to pay towards bills!

An Update on My Kids

Generally I don't work over the weekend, but I had some free time and I knew I needed the extra money for my kids, so I am giving an update for Just 19th. It isn't much, but every little bit helps. I am hoping things will really pick up this week since I am not out of the clear. We'll see I guess.

Thursday we are headed back to Oklahoma to take my oldest son home. I am really not looking forward to him leaving. The bad news is, I was told my other two children would be able to come down to visit, but due to my middle aged son being grounded for calling an adult a name, he and his younger brother are not allowed to come and visit me before school starts. Sigh.

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Update on My Kids

I'm running a little behind on my updates for my kids so I am giving 2 days worth of updates. Thank you to those who have been helping with this. I really appreciate it. To be honest, this has given me the motivation to really pay off the bills I have been talking about, so I am going to start keeping a daily tab of what I make online. For those who enjoy my writing and would like to donate, you can do so by visiting my sponsors, etc. Any help is always appreciated. Anyway, here's the rundown on my update:

July 14th

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July 15th

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