Jaime Loves Stuff

Oh Idris Elba

2013-12-19T04:00:00.000-08:00

Oh Idris. I am so sad. See, I am sad because you have a girlfriend and not only do you have a girlfriend but she's PREGNANT! I think she trapped ya. Why? She's totally not your type. Who is Idris' type? Me. I am.

Just kidding.

Man. I love, love, love that man. He's such a hunk.

Uh. That wink and point is for me.

He's a hunk as the single dad in Daddy's Little Girls.

Get off my man, Gabrielle Union. I don't care how hot you are.

Awwwww...

He's a hunk as the angsty DI Luther.

He's a hunk as the business man-gangsta, Stringer Bell in The Wire.

The man screams deliciousness.

He's another perfect hunk.

I am convinced he doesn't get skidmarks. I am convinced his BO is just manly cologne.

He might be one of the most perfect men in the world.

Yum.

Zinc Door Promo Code!

2013-12-18T06:27:00.000-08:00

Peak party throwing season is upon us! Right? It's almost New Year's and it's time to celebrate!

You know I love to share great coupon codes, promo codes and sales with you so...don't miss your chance to receive 15% off Entertainment Essentials at Zinc Door, 12/16 - 1/14, with promo code ENTERTAIN. Beautiful serving sets, sparkling glassware, elegant table linens ... everything you need to entertain with style. Be sure to check out Zinc Door today!

I seriously WANT these coasters. They're the Jonathan Adler Luxembourg Coasters. Aren't they gorgeous? Okay, I don't want. I NEED these coasters! They're STUNNING.

disclaimer: affiliate links

DressFirst: A Major Source For Beautiful Gowns

2013-12-18T05:54:00.001-08:00

Ladies, Ladies, Ladies. I am super excited to introduce you to the wonderland that is DressFirst. This website is the ultimate emporium of beautiful but cheap wedding dresses, homecoming dresses, cocktail dresses, bridesmaids, etc. etc. etc. Like I said, it's an emporium!

The holidays are upon us and that means we need dresses for all the upcoming special occasions. New Year's Eve is upon and that means... we need some amazing cocktail dresses, ladies. I have fallen in LOVE with the selection of cocktail dresses on DressFirst! I found, upon browsing, that there is something for everybody and for every woman's tastes. I am a little more simple in my tastes and these two ... I fell head over heels in love for these two dresses. Aren't they gorgeous? I find them to be very chic, classy and still very, very glamorous.

How gorgeous is this? It's so classy and lovely!

Tell me... would you feel like you were in Mad Men in this? Totally Joan Holloway!

Not only do we have New Year's Eve upon us, the wedding season is right around the corner and that means finding the perfect bridesmaids dresses or if you are the bride, you do need your gown!

I love that they offer expedited shipping and they stand by their products and the high quality of what they offer. I am a huge fan of online shopping because I can always find a greater selection, better prices and options. I also find online shopping to be as safe as shopping in a brick and mortar with various security options. I am, personally, a paypal fanatic (I've never had an issue!) because I don't have to enter my debit card or credit card number each time and DressFirst accepts PayPal, among many other options!

I love that the selection on DressFirst is enormous! Like I said, there's something for every woman and every occasion.

Have you ever shopped for a gown online? Did you visit DressFirst? Did you find anything you would love to have?

disclaimer: This is a paid sponsored post but my thoughts and opinions are still honest and mine.

Flowers In The Attic 2014

2013-12-18T04:00:00.000-08:00

Who else read VC Andrews' jaw-dropping book, "Flowers in the Attic"? I can vividly remember when I first read it and, because I was young, I had no idea what a D&C was but I pretty much had an idea but not 100%. The incest. The tyranny. The abuse. The deaths. The nightmare. It is still vivid. It was the ultimate, stomach-churning nightmare that people couldn't stop talking about. All these years later, it still shocks people. VC Andrews churned out tons of books and carried on not only the Dollanganger saga, but many more and once she died, ghost writers have carried on the various stories. I read so many of the various series by Andrews. They're sickening and addicting.

You can't stop! Or at least, I couldn't.

They're the ultimate train wreck- incest, abuse, poverty and extreme wealth but kinda-sorta an underdog story.

source

GIFSoup

I was thrown for a loop when I heard that a new film is being made of Flowers in the Attic. I honestly didn't hate the 1987 film but I am pretty dang excited for this new one which will air in January on Lifetime.

Makes me want to read the books again!

All About Blogging...

2013-12-17T07:00:00.000-08:00

Bah. I've been playing around with PicMonkey and basically I suck at it. Ha Ha Ha. Don't worry, I will get better.

So, I've been blogging since 2006. Holy cow. 2006. That's crazy. I ventured into blogging with a very nonchalant attitude and have been very casual in my approach. I let this blog go to the wayside while I was returning back to working full time and still finishing my education. Now, that I returned, I have been taking my blogging much more seriously and treating it as a professional venture. Now, I am and always will be a casual kind of person but I struggle with maintaining my personality, struggle with blah moods, and keeping up with my posts. That's something I am working on BUT here are my thoughts on blogging and how to grow your readership, traffic and community.

1. Join linkups and leave meaninful comments.
2. Don't give up if people don't return the comment love. A lot don't. However, the right linkups will be full of nice and chatty people.
3. Promote your blog. Shamelessly.
4. Don't be afraid to monetize.
5. Back to #1- leave meaningful comments on other blogs and also, leave a link to your blog. I despise form comments that say "OMG! Great blog! Come follow me! link". I had one comment left like that on a serious post (about my daughter's brain injury). I deleted it and will never visit that person's blog.
6. Pinterest is gold.
7. Facebook is starting to fall by the wayside for fan pages unless you are a big brand. They're wanting you to pay to promote. Fahhhhgettaboutit.
8. Anything you would like to add?

ETA:

9. Get rid of Captcha. It does NOTHING for preventing spam but what is DOES do, it annoys potential readers/commenters who become irritated by Captcha and they won't comment. I know I move on. Read the conversation about Captcha here

I am still learning, growing and adapting. This is always a work in progress and as I learn something new, I will share!

#ModCloth Revel in Rewards Sale!

2013-12-16T19:00:00.000-08:00

The ModCloth Revel in Rewards Sale begins today and there are THREE fabulous ways to save while you shop and treat yourself! I know you all love a good ModCloth sale! I know that I do! I do! Heehee

1. Enjoy FREE US shipping on orders $50+
2. Spend $100+ for free EXPRESS shipping
3. Spend $125+ & get $25 back to spend on yourself in January!

Check out all of ModCloth's adorable dresses, fun graphic tees, shoes, cardigans and even apartment and home accessories. And, don't forget to check out the ModCloth Gift Guide, you can shop for Him, for Her and there is a even a fun selection of gifts under $20, you are sure to find something for everyone on your list!

disclaimer: Affiliate Links

#MonsterHigh Dolls Deals

2013-12-16T10:30:00.003-08:00

Emma LOVES Monster High. Okay, I won't lie, I kinda love them, too. I wish they had them when I was young! I think they're cute but this isn't about me, mmmkay. Emma loves them and so do many little girls.

I was shopping for some for Emma's Christmas this year and I, honestly, found Amazon to have them at the best prices. On sale at Target, most were $10.00 or more and Walmart was around the same. If any of them were lower, they were long since sold out. I found that Amazon not only had the best prices but the best selection. Also, if you are a member of Amazon Prime, you will get them in two days for free as part of your Prime membership. Guaranteed. I find Prime to be worth it because you also get free streaming movies. Win win.

So, if you're looking for them, head over to Amazon!

disclaimer: Affiliate Ads

Daily Deal Obsession: Jane

2013-12-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

Have I ever told you guys that I am addicted to daily deals websites? Well, I am! I mean, come on! You get a smoking deal on a unique item. Many of the items are from up and coming companies and I adore that you can get a quality product at a great price. I have had a few misses but overall, with all the various daily deal sites- I haven't had very many misses and any time I have had an issue, I've gotten my money back! So, I can't complain.

I have discovered a sweeeet gem, called Jane. Oh Jane. I have falled in LOVE. LOVE, I say! Oh you better believe I will be going crazy these items. The site has everything from accessories, to home decor to women's and children's clothing.

Here are some of the smoking deals I have found on their site! Seriously. GO!

This is just a small sampling of what I found and fell in love with. GIMMMMMMEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!

Anyways, go check out Jane!

disclaimer: affiliate links

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

2013-12-15T18:13:00.001-08:00

It's Monday, what are you reading is a weekly book linkup hosted by Sheila at Book Journey.

Last week, I started Perdition by Ann Aguirre and I am still working on it. The whole insanity of Christmas is still slowing down my reading. So far, Perdition is fantastic! FANTASTIC. I have heard it called a mix of Prison Break and Battlestar Galactica and you know what? I totally get it. Love love loving it. Dred is awesome. I'd drink a beer with her.

What are you reading this week?

Also, my Monday Music post is up, you can go here to check out what I am listening to!

Music Monday: Holidays Edition

2013-12-15T18:05:00.001-08:00

It's that time of the year again- time for Christmas music! I have a love/hate relationship with it. I like to listen to it on my terms and my terms only.

When I was young and still living in Southwest Kansas, I attended a Mennonite Church (Holdeman Mennonites, I believe) and just loved the people. They would come caroling and always acapella and it was so lovely. Both times when I went home for my parents' funerals, some of the members of the church would come by to pay their respects. I am sad that I know that if I ever do return, I won't see many of them again because they are up there in age. I do miss the carolers.

Okay, that was a bit off-topic but not really.

So here are my favorite renditions of Christmas songs. What are yours (if you have any!)? Or what music are you loving this week? Feel free to save the above image and post your Music Monday post below! If enough participate, we can do a link up! Oh and I just realized, it's Monday Music and I transposed the words on the graphic so I made an adjustment for this week only. Ha ha. I blame it on the holidays.

I am a HUGE fan of the Cranberries and their rendition of "Little Drummer Boy" is amazing.

I LOVE Celtic Woman!

Who knew that The Crash Test Dummies sang "First Noel"?

Andrea Bocelli:

I love Dolly Parton!

Your turn!

Project Life Pens Review

2013-12-13T06:58:00.001-08:00

I am a huge fan of Project Life by Becky Higgins. The concept is brilliant, it's scrapbooking for us ~~lazy~~ busy folks. I don't have the patience or creativity for traditional scrapbooks but Project Life? I can do. Slide photos in, fill out journal cards and bam! Perfect scrapbook! It's so easy, the albums are adorable and the all star cast of designers have created awesome journal cards. Seriously, go check it out.

I was insanely excited when Project Life was on HSN. The deals were smoking! I ordered two kits: One Jade and one Blush, with the Blush being on Autoship with a few mini kits. They are amazing.

I have zero complaints about the kits but my complaint lies with the PL Pens that I purchased. I purchased the 18 pack of pens in March and by August they are bone dry. Not every single pen but a good majority of them are. They weren't cheap. I paid $25.15 for 18 pens. I am extremely disappointed and I won't buy these pens again nor will I buy any from American Crafts (the maker of said pens) unless their quality control kicks up their game. I think one is better off with a set of Sharpies and at least you get more color options.

Boo!

Craftsy- Yarn Flash Sale!

2013-12-13T03:00:00.000-08:00

Have you used Craftsy yet? It's AWESOME!!! You need to! There are so many classes to take and so many great deals. I highly recommend it, if you haven't!

Still haven't found the perfect present for the crafter in your life? Stuff their stockings with fabric and yarn from Craftsy! From Friday, December 13 to Monday, December 16, designer yarn is on sale up to 80% off and designer fabric is up to 65% off. Order by 12/16 to guarantee delivery by 12/24...sorry, this is only for US residents. Hurry over to Craftsy! This sale expires on December 16 at midnight MST.

Craftsy 80% Off Yarn Flash Sale through 12/16
Craftsy 65% Off Fabric Flash Sale through 12/16

disclaimer: affiliate ads

Dreams Don't Work...

2013-12-11T06:04:00.001-08:00

Picture via here

I absolutely adore that quote. "Dreams don't work unless you do". It's so very true. You can dream all day but they do nothing if you don't work towards fulfilling these dreams!

I've been dreaming often about becoming self employed. I have a million ideas but one idea is stuck in my head and I daydream about it. So, I wrote out my plan of action. I have my details spilled with a six month goal, a one year goal, and five year goal. I have everything detailed out and I am quite proud of myself! How to market my product, the venues I wish to sell at, the product line, the future expansion of the product line, etc. I finally feel like the dream will become a reality by this summer. I am a planner. A die hard planner. So, keep your eyes open! I have concrete dates! Ha! That means I have to, right?

When I returned to blogging, I was posting "Random Wednesday Finds" of amazing items, blogs and all around interesting stuff (oh and hilarious stuff, too) I find online and I will return this to my editorial calendar! I love finding artisan, unique and handmade items and sharing them.

Speaking of dreams, a friend of mine started her business. She's just getting listed on Etsy and her official website will be launched. I am really excited for her!

Go ahead and check out her products on Etsy.

Ooohhhh Whipped body butter.

Another shop I think you should visit is my blogger friend, Jamie of ChatterBlossom. Her Etsy shop is a treasure trove of vintage goodies. Oh and her blog? It's aaaahhhhhhmazing. Seriously. AMAZING. I drool over her photos of her modeling gorgeous gorgeous vintage fashions, jewelry and her makeup and hair? I die. Seriously vintage heaven!

Isn't this a gorgeous head piece?

#ModCloth Sale

2013-12-10T13:58:00.001-08:00

You all know that I am obsessed with Modcloth, right? Well, they are having a 20% off sale on GIFTS! Whoot. Need some last minute gift ideas? Check out ModCloth's Nifty Gifty Sale where you can get 20% off 100's of gift items for both men and women! The Nifty Gifty Sale starts 12/9 at 10am PST and ends on 12/15 at midnight PST. Check out the 2013 ModCloth Gift Guide for some fabulous, unique gift ideas... you'll even find gifts for under $20! And don't forget,ModCloth offers FREE US shipping on orders $50+ or more and Free shipping for international customers on orders over $150. Hurry and shop now, don't miss out on snagging these great offers!

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Major Zulily Deals!

2013-12-10T13:55:00.003-08:00

I don't know if any of you are familiar with Zulily or if you have purchased from them, but if not, you need to! I absolutely ADORE Zulily and I have had nothing by GOOD experiences with them.

If you're not familiar, essentially- it's a daily deal website where you can score items at a fraction of the retail cost. Zulily lists items for sale and then when the sale closes, they order from the manufacturer, the items are received by Zulily and THEN shipped to you. It can take about a month from the time you order. I want to share that part with you so that way you aren't surprised how long it takes. I have experienced GREAT customer service from them, too. I bought all of Emma's ballet leotards, tutus and tights from there. I have purchased Cricut supplies and many other items. I love it!

Here are some amazing upcoming deals!

Let me know if you grab any smoking items! Can't wait for you to share your spoils!

Tuesday, December 10th

Wednesday, December 11th

Thursday, December 12th

Dollie and Me on sale at zulily!
Home Refresh – Family Room sale at zulily
zulily’s Favorite Gifts (Guaranteed for Christmas Delivery)
ECCO on sale at zulily

Friday, December 13th

Home Refresh – Outdoor sale at zulily

disclaimer: affiliate link

Guess Who is Baaaaacccckkkk?

2013-12-10T13:05:00.000-08:00

REBECCA BLACK!

Let me preface this, when "Friday" went viral, I got a kick out of it. The singing wasn't good, the video was corny and the lyrics were hysterical. HYSTERICAL! There for awhile, my friend and I would text, IM or whatever each other on Fridays with "FRIDAY! FRIDAY! GOTTA GET DOWN ON FRIDAY! WIF MY FREEEEEEEEEEENNNNNNNZZZZZZZZ" Or something like that.

Now, you know she was all kinds of excited to make the video with her friends. Hell, I would be if I was 14. Oh who the hell am I kidding, I would be right now at age... *it's impolite to reveal my age, fyi* Ha.

In case you've been under a rock for the last three years, have a gander at this.

Now, I can't sing. At all. Seriously. However, I do get all into it and people seriously try to shut me up. Even in this auto-tuned masterpiece, she sounds better than me.

Since Friday, she was bullied, had death threats, and had to leave school and start homeschooling. Sadly, too many teenagers would have crumbled. Shooooot, I would have. Did Rebecca? Nope. Homegirl was in Katy Perry's T.G.I.F video, has made some beaucoup cash (more than I earn...) and has had a good laugh at herself on Funny or Die.

In Friday:

Now she's back. It's now SATURDAY!

Haha. Homegirl even makes fun of Friday. Is she the best singer? Nope. Is she the worst? Nope. I actually was pleasantly surprised when this started making the rounds on the net and although Saturday is cheesy (well, duh, it's the day after FRIDAY!), her covers are pretty dang good. You know what? Get it, girl. I wouldn't have the guts to get back out there.

Saturday:

I will admit, I love "Wrecking Ball" and I have to say, Rebecca's cover is pretty damn good.

However, this cover is my favorite. Okay, not a cover but... a interpretation. Oh and FYI, NSFW. Don't blame me. Blame the internet!

It's Monday! What Are You Reading/Listening To?

2013-12-08T18:13:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday! Oh and Happy December! Can you believe it's a week into December? Crazy. Are you ready for the holidays? Trust me. I am not. Nope. Not close.

I decided to combine the weekly It's Monday, What Are You Reading?
and my usual Monday Music postings into one. If any of you are interested in starting a weekly music linkup, let me! I can create a graphic and we can do any day if Monday is not amenable!

Last week I posted that I didn't get any reading done. This week has some contributions! Whoot Whoot.

I used to work for a radiation oncology practice and one of the radiation oncologists who used to come into the office and cover when one of our regular doctors were on vacation or out sick, etc. would always have a book to read. Generally, when he was covering- it was very slow (i.e., the holidays) and there weren't any patients to actually see (patients were still being treated but they weren't being seen on these days unless there was a concern and they weren't scheduled to see the doctor for a followup). So, to my point, he always had a book and he was reading the "Area 51" series by Robert Doherty. He was a huge fan and I have finally read the first book. It was a fun, fast paced read and I recommend it to anybody who likes military science fiction, conspiracy theories, etc. I enjoyed it a lot!

This week, I am starting "Perdition" by Ann Aguirre. I was really sad when she decided to end the Jax series but Perdition takes place in the Jax 'Verse, so I am really happy! I loved the Sirantha Jax series so I have high hopes for Perdition!

This week, I am really, really, really loving really upbeat music! I am a fan of Ke$ha and I think her music is a lot of fun. I also really, really like Pitbull and am really glad he is getting some mainstream success. It's going down, I'm yelling "TIMBER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

I love the video.

Part of my Black Friday scores on Amazon was Demi Lovato's album "Demi" for $1.99. It was the mp3 album but I have to say, I am not sure why I never really listened to her before. I guess all I could think of was Barney and Disney. My daughter loves Camp Rock and although I knew she had a good singing voice, I didn't know she was THAT good. The girl can sing and I LOVE "Neon Lights". She has looks and talent? I am jealous.

Your turn!
What are you reading?
Any songs you are loving this week?

disclaimer: affiliate links

Whoa! Mystery Sale at #ModCloth! See What's 30% off!

2013-12-05T18:06:00.002-08:00

ModCloth has a treat for you! For the next 5 days only - through December 9th, ModCloth is having a Magical Mystery Sale! You can snag a great deal on party dresses and more at 30% OFF! Play along with the mystery of this sale and see what fun magical deals you can pick up. Here are a couple of our favorites, let me know what you find!


Salute to You Dress from ModCloth	Whole Dyed World Sweater from ModCloth	Owl Finest Flowers Vase from ModCloth

You can solve the mystery and see what’s on sale here: ModCloth's Magical Mystery Sale 12/5-12/9!

affiliate link

Oh Tom Selleck

2013-12-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

Oh Tom Selleck, how are you so perfect?
You are such a beautiful man. You are a man's man. No lies.

You were perfect as Magnum PI with your shorty shorts and epic stache.

You are perfect as Jesse Stone. All morose, cynical and drunk but my gods, the testosterone that comes through the screen is enough to send the women in to "fits" and "swoons"

via

Even Cher swoons.

Pretty much. via

I wish Richard Burke was my boyfriend. I mean, come on, how can a man look so perfect in a tuxedo? It should be ILLEGAL!!! ILLEGAL, I SAY! I was jealous of Monica. Seriously. *Le Sigh*

Even perfect as a cowboy in Australia.

How is it possible that this man is nearly 70 years old. SEVENTY. Let that sink in. How about the fact that Magnum PI began in 1980. 35 years ago. THIRTY FIVE YEARS AGO. He has only gotten much more handsome and manlier. If that was even possible.

Tom (may I call you Tom? OKTHX!), you are the perfect man.

Amazon Toy Deals!

2013-12-04T06:04:00.001-08:00

I tend to stay away from the crowds at stores. I get super anxious and exhausted and frankly, the deals aren't that impressive. I do most of my holiday shopping online. I stalk Amazon for deals and strike when the iron's hot. I bought the Croods for Emma for only $9! I also scored some CDs, Monster High dolls,etc. I also am a member of Prime (so worth it!) and have already received most of the items I have ordered!

Hurry and head over there and score some GREAT deals! Amazon has compiled a great list!

Shop Amazon - Holiday Toy List

disclaimer: affiliate links

Review: Kiss Me Organics Matcha Green Tea

2013-12-04T05:49:00.003-08:00

I love a good latte. Chai latte. Green tea latte. Caramel mocha latte. Yep. I do love a good latte.

I have been interested in Matcha green tea and I did purchase a container of tropical matcha green tea from Trader Joe's and it was putrid. It was cloyingly sweet and kind of ruined the taste. Of course, I want to try Matcha again because of its positive benefits. It's known for healthy antioxidants, energy boosting and all the extra benefits like improved metabolism, skin, hair and nails. We all known that we need more antioxidants in our bodies!

I was given a chance to try Kiss Me Organics' Organic Matcha Culinary Grade Green Tea Powder and I was really excited. With the powder, I was also given a recipe book and that was really interesting. You can make so many different things with the powder! You can make anything from savory to sweet dishes. A small amount of the powder goes a long ways. I opted to try a latte (obviously!). It only takes 1 tsp of matcha powder, 1 tsp of agave syrup, 1/4 cup of hot water and 3/4 cup of milk and bam! You have a latte. I, unfortunately, was out of agave syrup but used organic sugar. I only had cow's milk but I think next time, I will make it with almond or soy milk. Overall, the taste was perfect (even better than the coffee shop's green tea lattes) and I hope to eventually try some of the recipes!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. Affiliate links may be in post

Hurry! ModCloth Grab Bag NOW! Free!

2013-12-03T17:49:00.002-08:00

You guys have got to jump on this deal NOW! Seriously! Have you ever received the grab bag from Modcloth? No? you must get one now! Free with purchase! Yay Yay Ya!

Black Friday and Cyber Monday have passed us by in a flash! But that doesn't mean great deals aren't out there any more! ModCloth has a sweet Grab Bag worth $50 that they are giving away with any purchase of $125+ until Midnight Tonight!!!ModCloth is not just clothes either, they have adorable apartment accessories and even have a small selection of quirky gifts for that special guy in your life. Check them out using the link below and get that grab bag for yourself! ModCloth Grab Bag Sale untilMidnight Tonight!

Oh and don't forget, FREE International shipping!

The Great American Pin-Up from ModCloth	The New York Times 36 Hours - Northeast from ModCloth	It Won't Be Longitude Print Set from ModCloth

affiliate link

EMeals Review

2013-12-02T17:26:00.000-08:00

Sign up now to save 35% off! Sign up here and enter the code "cyber35" to save 35%!

I am very, very excited about this program. Like super excited!

What is Emeals you ask? Well here's a bit about the program.

eMeals is the market leader in online meal planning solutions for consumers.

The company provides over 50 weekly plans based on customers preferred food style, family size and grocery store. Specialties include classic, clean eating, simple gourmet, low fat, low carb, paleo, portion control, organic, vegetarian and gluten-free meals.

I have been working very, very hard to get my spending in check. I am trying to dig myself out of debt and it's been quite a feat. I hope by summer to be down to only one credit card and my car payment (wish me luck!). We all know Dave Ramsey and his financial advice is very popular and from what I understand, very good and sound. I haven't really followed his program so I don't know what it entails but I do know about his recommendation of snowballing. List your credit cards/debts/etc. in smallest to largest order. Pay off your smallest first while paying the minimum payment on the others. Then, when the smallest is paid off, you tack that payment onto the payment of the next one in line and so on and so forth. It made sense to me long before I'd heard Dave Ramsey calling it snowballing. So, the reason I mention Dave Ramsey is because he endorses Emeals!

The way this program works is you pick your eating style (it was hard for me! because I like classic, simple gourmet and clean eating styles!). I went with the classic style to start. I did notice that if you want to change it, you can once a month. You can even ADD multiple (it does cost to add them) food styles. This is only for the evening meal. You can add lunch and breakfast to your membership, also. Again, it costs but the overall savings should balance it out! As Dave Ramsey said, we spend too much money on food. It's true. This is the one area where I have really cut down spending and surprising myself in the process. I'm surprised I can survive on such a small budget for two.

You also pick your family size and you can even pick your preferred grocery store! Yay!
Each week, you are emailed your weekly meal plan and my favorite part? There's a shopping list on the last page and it's coordinated with the weekly sales at your grocery store!

The shopping list is great because it's organized by meal and grocery department. Along the side is a table with the necessary staples. You can go through mark off what you already have in your pantry/freezer and then off to the store, matchup ads and if you use coupons, you're in for the gold. I am starting to learn more and more about couponing so I really hope to save even more!

I made a chicken and brocolli stir fry off the very first menu Emeals sent me. I found the recipe to be very uncomplicate, easy to follow and very flavorful. I did leave out the peanuts (my daughter has low tone in her mouth so she loses the sensation of food and can easily choke) and use frozen brocolli versus fresh. It was very inexpensive. The recipe was organized and so was the shopping list. I am really excited about this service and I will definitely keep you updated. Honestly, I don't know if I saved money BUT the fact that I made dinner versus picking up takeout saved me money. The fact that the recipe was easy and the meal was fast motivated me. I did this on a weeknight after work. I swung by the grocery store, grabbed the few things we needed and came home and cooked. Dinner was ready for my daughter by the time she came home.

I will definitely keep you all updated and let you know how much I can save. I am starting to keep a log of how much I am saving with this program.

Not the best photo but it came out really yummy and flavorful.

Sign up now to save 35% off! Sign up here and enter the code "cyber35" to save 35%!

disclaimer: This opportunity was provided to me by Markerly.
I have been provided with a product and monetary compensation however, my opinions are still my opinions.

Monday Music: Black Friday Finds

2013-12-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

Black Friday has come and gone. Did you brave the insanity? Did you score any good deals? Share share!

Not I. I don't do crowds. I don't believe the sales are good enough to deal with the hoardes of people. Noooo thank you. I can get awesome deals online just fine. I know some people like to do the Black Friday insanity because of the excitement but not me. I have full blown panic attacks with the crowding and the massive amount of people. Instead... I shop online. I scored some amazing deals in music on Amazon!

Emma loves Katy Perry, so I purchased Prism for her. I bought Jack Johnson's latest album and Arcade Fire's newest one, too. The one thing I like about Amazon is that a lot of albums come with Autorip. Autorip is the free mp3 file. So, all weekend, my lazy self has been relaxing to new music and burning a candle. It was nice.

I hooked up my old iPhone (I use it as an iPod) and listened to all three albums. I must say, I am very much impressed with Katy Perry's new album. I am not much of a fan of Roar but the rest? Pretty amazing.

Jack Johnson's From Here to Now to You? Awesome. Arcade Fire, as always, is amazing. Reflektor did not let me down! I did also score Demi Lovato's album, Demi, and Avicii's album for a great price. Those were just the digital albums but for only $1.99 each? Can't complain.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

2013-12-01T17:37:00.001-08:00

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? is a weekly link up hosted by Sheila at Book Journey

Well. I didn't get hardly any reading done. My reading list is exactly as it was last week.

I haven't made any progress even though I had a four day weekend. I was uber lazy after Thanksgiving.

So, were you more productive than me? What did you get finished? What are you starting this week?

Enjoy!