- Multitasking Mom's Survival Guide - over; winner TBA
- Teach My Baby, Toddler, and Preschooler Sets - Ends Jun 27
- $25 Amazon Gift Code - Ends June 30
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6/21/14
Don't Miss These Giveaways!
6/19/14
Champions Day 6/21 - Hawaiian Falls - FREE for Individuals with Special Needs
Hawaiian Falls water parks will host Champions Day for individuals with special needs Saturday, June 21, 2014. The “Champions” (special needs individuals of any age) get in free. Family members can purchase discounted tickets for $5 each (regular admission is $26.99) with a Champions Day coupon available for download at http://hfalls.com/championsday.
“We don’t ask for any proof of disability like a doctor’s note or medical records,” said Evan Barnett, Hawaiian Falls vice president and general manager. “Their word is good enough for us. We realize some special needs like autism may not be immediately apparent. These families don’t need to prove anything. They know if their loved one has special needs. We just want to bless these families.”
Special needs families will have exclusive access and use of the park from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Hawaiian Falls Pflugerville will open on this day to the public 10:30 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. The Champions and caregivers can stay all day at no extra charge.
To be sensitive to the Champions’ special needs, Hawaiian Falls turns down the music, adds more staff to assist families, and asks lifeguards to be thoughtful about using their whistles only when absolutely necessary.
Celebrating more than a decade of bringing families closer together, Hawaiian Falls operates water parks in Garland, The Colony, Mansfield, Roanoke, Waco, Pflugerville and White Settlement. More info at hfalls.com or facebook.com/hfalls.
Big Boss Swirlio Frozen Fruit Dessert Maker - Review
Round Rock Express Baseball #Texas
Mia Wines - Tasting Event #Austin
#sponsored event
6/18/14
Help Set a World Record 6/20 Hawaiian Falls #Texas
Want to help set a new record for the
World's Largest Swimming Lesson?
You are invited!
Hawaiian Falls water parks will host hundreds of swimmers at each of its seven Texas parks Friday, June 20, 2014 in an attempt to set a new record for the World's Largest Swimming Lesson!
Gates will open at 9 a.m. this Friday. Participants must register by 9:45 a.m. Friday and can buy a special discounted ticket online for $19.99, which gets participants into the park for the event and allows them to stay and play all day. Hawaiian Falls season pass holders can participate for free and can register on-site Friday morning. Other participants should register online at:
http://www.hfalls.com/worlds-largest-swimming-lesson
The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson will begin at 10 a.m. sharp at thousands of locations around the globe. All ages are invited to participate. The lesson runs 30 minutes from start to finish.
In 2010, the inaugural event established the Guinness World Record for the largest simultaneous swimming lesson to build awareness about the importance of teaching children to swim to prevent drowning. Each year the event has grown and broken the previous record. Last year's event included more than 35,000 participants at 700+ locations - a 40%+ increase over the previous record.
Visit www.wlsl.org to learn more about The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson, created by the World Waterpark Association in 2010 and supported by dozens of water safety organizations and media partners around the globe.
Celebrating more than a decade of bringing families closer together, Hawaiian Falls operates water parks in Garland, The Colony, Mansfield, Roanoke, Waco, Pflugerville and White Settlement. More info at hfalls.com or facebook.com/hfalls.
What Are Common Flaws in Home Security Systems?
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That’s the first mistake.
Relying purely on any type of hardware or software requires an individual to have a lapse of judgment. There is no such thing as 100% perfection. However, having a security system is better than not having one; statistics say you are 300% less likely to be a victim of a break-in if you have a security system installed.
How does a man get out of a room with four walls, a floor, a ceiling, and no door? He just walks through the doorway!
All jokes aside, this is a very serious matter. Many families are assuming their safety is ensured simply because they have an alarm system installed. Their confidence in this system increases with the price and name brand popularity. However, the guarantee of protection does not.
Why Are Home Alarm Systems Flawed?
Again, this is one of those things where guarantees cannot be made because nothing is 100% flawless. An alarm system is installed with a set of parameters it follows in order to signify the need for an alarm of any sort. These parameters are defined, but the outside variables are not.
For example, a home security system may sense when something or someone enters through a window but it likely doesn’t detect entry through the chimney.
So when Santa makes his rounds and no alarm gets sounded off, you might start getting worried. Consider that your wake up call.
Three Major Flaws in Home Security Systems
So you want to protect your home, then you need to know what common flaws exist. These are flaws which are found in many different home security systems. Hopefully yours is not one of them.
Incomplete coverage
This is the most common flaw. As illustrated in the chimney scenario, most home security systems do not provide coverage for 100% of the home’s barriers and openings. Most affordable home security systems just cover the doors and main windows. While it’s unlikely an intruder will come in through your chimney, what about your basement windows? These are often neglected and an intruder could even smash then without a detectable sound if you’re sleeping all the way upstairs.
The most obvious solution is to get a full coverage package when shopping for a security system. This will cover all windows and doors, as well as any other entry points for your home. Make sure to think about every possible entry point, even the less likely ones such as a balcony near a tree or a crawlspace.
Improper calibration
It’s common, especially on self-installed systems, for things to be improperly calibrated. This often leads to false alarms, which tends to lead to the system not being turned on as it’s viewed as being an annoyance.
For example, an alarm system may be installed with an allowance for a couple feet on non-motion censored wiggle room. This is to allow for pets to enter into the home without tripping the alarm. As this is common knowledge, an intruder can use this to their advantage. Sound censors can also be out of whack and to prevent false alarms, they may be set so high that an intruder can carefully break glass without setting off the alarm.
This is why it’s so important to get a professional to calibrate the system. It’s also important to specify the level of protection you want - as in, whether something of a pet-like stature can trigger the alarm. And whether something of a similar volume of hail hitting the window would trip the alarm as well. If you have a pet, you may want to find a pet-friendly security system.
Poor passwords
Many make the mistake of setting a poor password or not choosing one at all. Some passwords are common by default across all models of a particular brand of alarm system. An intruder could do a little research after scouting out the house and see if there’s a common pass code. They could also try some common possibilities, such as 1-2-3-4 and 0-0-0-0.
Alternatively, an intruder could do a little test to see which numbers are pressed the most. They can then determine what the most likely possibilities are with those four numbers. As many do not press any numbers besides the ones in the actual code, this is very easy to do. There are even break-in kits sold which assist with this process.
The obvious solution is to choose a complex password. While a password can only get so complex, it’s more so a matter of choosing the less obvious possibilities. So think about what the intruder would guess after each failed guess. Chances are after 1-2-3-4 and 0-0-0-0, the next guess isn’t going to be 1-7-9-3. It’s also a good idea to wear out all the number buttons a bit so it’s not obvious as to which buttons you typically press.
Additional Measures to Improve Home Security
A standard home security system is often not enough. So you can go the extra mile by furthering your protection. A very effective way of doing this involves getting an electronic door viewer installed. Many locksmith companies offer this service, just check on their website.
For example, metrolocks.co.uk notes in their Care Situations page that they both supply and install electronic door viewers. Of course, this particular company is only suitable for you if they operate in your area.
However, the ability to view who is at your front door at all times is very beneficial. This is especially true if there is a motion detector built into the system. This is different than the motion detector on your home security system. The door viewer will actually pick up a video feed whenever anyone approaches your front door. So instead of finding out about the intruder when they’re breaking in, you can catch them in the act of casing out your home.
6/17/14
Barbecue Chicken Pasta #Recipe {Link Up Your Recipe}
Welcome to the LeahSay’s Views
and Planet Weidknecht Recipe Link Up!
~ My recipe this week is Barbecue Chicken Pasta ~
I often purchase large packages of chicken because it saves me money. I will cook a bunch of it at one time, then create recipes to use it in a variety of ways. Now that the warm weather has arrived, I crave the taste of barbecue. This Barbecue Chicken Pasta recipe is created in the kitchen so it's wonderful even on those rainy summer days. This meal turned out fabulous and we'll definitely be making it again!
Ingredients:
2 cups chicken, cooked
8 oz dry egg noodles
1 small can (2.5 oz) sliced black olives
1 bottle Barbecue Sauce (18 oz)
Directions:
In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil, and cook egg noodles until soft. Cut cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. When noodles are done, drain water, then add chicken, olives, and barbecue sauce to the noodles. Stir well, cover the saucepan, and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Easy and delicious!
Print this recipe HERE.
See my other recipes HERE.
Now it's your turn to share a recipe! Just add your blog link to your recipe below!
Tips for a Healthier Lifestyle
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Studies show that many of us in first world countries are struggling with health deficiencies. Our lives have become so busy that we often give into the convenience of processed foods for ease of preparation. While we're out taxiing our children around and working at jobs, it seems much easier to pop into a fast-food restaurant to fill our bellies. In reality, you will feel more prepared for your daily chaos if you are eating well. Choosing fresh foods that are easily portable, such as fruits, raw vegetables, whole grain crackers, nuts and seeds, will actually keep you fuller longer and be much better for your overall health. These foods are also easily portable and can be stored in your handbag, desk drawer, or a small container in the car. Having these foods on hand when you have children can also enable them maintain better attitudes and behaviors. Taking just a moment in the morning to ingest a supplement like Bio-Fiber from Pharma Nord may help to maintain healthy digestive and cardiovascular systems, and a healthy glucose balance. Made from vegetable sources, it helps to compensate for the reduced levels of dietary fiber in the modern diet. By focusing on putting good things into your body daily, you will feel better and look better.
For some reason, the word exercise has become negative for many people. Exercising doesn't have to mean two hours of excruciating workouts at the local gym. On the other hand, many of us sit all day long in front of a desk or in the car. Sitting for long periods of time breaks down the muscles in our body core, causing all kinds of problems from back problems to digestive issues. Taking a daily 30-minute walk around the neighborhood with your children or your dog can do a world of good for you. Not only does it work your body in a low-impact fashion, the fresh air strengthens your lungs and helps to clear your head. Don't let excuses get in your way. If it's too cold to walk, bundle up and go anyway. If it's raining, grab an umbrella and go anyway. If you're tired, a walk will actually energize you by stimulating your metabolism. If your body is aching, consider a supplement like Bio-Glucosamine Super. Glucosamine is a naturally-occurring substance for the maintenance and repair of joint cartilage. Supplements are the best source of additional glucosamine which is not found in food. Exercise will boost your mood, your energy, and your health.
Just thirty minutes a day of quiet solitude does wonders for busy adults, but finding even ten minutes for it can be a challenge. Making time for slowing down from the constant noise and activity should be a priority. A healthier parent is better able to confront the daily challenges of a busy lifestyle. Busy moms can enlist the help of a spouse or a friend to watch the kids so you can sneak off for a relaxing bath or a cup of tea on the back porch. If you have older children, set apart some time daily for "mom's quiet time" when no one is allowed to interrupt. When we fail to take time for ourselves, our immune systems can begin to break down and become more susceptible to illnesses and environmental hazards. Additionally, by taking a daily Bio-Multi Vitamin and Mineral that contains antioxidants, parents can help protect their body tissues against the damaging effects of free radicals, toxins produced within the body, or by exposure to chemicals, pesticides, alcohol, and cigarette smoke.
A yearly check-up at your doctor's office is recommended, but taking care of your health is really your own responsibility. Stay abreast of new research and read articles regularly about healthy lifestyles. The more you expose yourself to this kind of information, the easier it will be to adopt the ideals into your own life. We are so bombarded with advertisements about easy-to-prepare processed foods and fast-food convenience, that we need to take steps ourselves to balance out those messages with information about how to live a healthier life. Remember too that your children are more likely to do what they see you do, rather than what you tell them to do, so setting a good example is the best way to set them up for success.
How to Find Inspiration to Keep Your Writing Fresh
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But sometimes being a writer can be extremely challenging, especially when you're stuck for ideas on what to write about or you feel uninspired. To keep the creative juices flowing, you need to take steps as a writer so that you never run out of ideas and you always have something put down on paper. Continue reading for a few tips that will help you find inspiration that won't only keep your writing fresh, but also prevent dreaded writer's block.
Travelling is a perfect way to see new places, experience new things, and meet new people. When you get out there and explore, you're able to enrich your own personal experience but also use those experiences to improve your writing. On the other hand, if you're constantly stuck indoors and you don't get out into the world to experience new things and talk to different people while taking in the many cultures from around the world, you'll only have the same things to say and your writing will become boring in no time.
You don't have to spend a lot of money to travel, either. Take a day trip with friends so you can hike up a mountain or go skiing in the winter. Spend some time alone on the beach, listening to the waves lapping onto the shore. Let your mind wander as you trek through a forest and listen to the birds as the sun shines down. When you get back home, you may be surprised by all of the amazing ideas that suddenly spring to mind and are aching to be recorded in the form of a poem, an article, or a new part of the book you've been working on.
When you do get the opportunity to travel abroad, definitely take it. Again, there are so many amazing people and cultures to take in. Let them influence you, teach you, and inspire you. And it doesn't matter where you travel to or how long you stay away. In fact, many writers prefer to purchase vacation homes so they always have a place to stay in their favourite destination when necessary. For example, searching for affordable property Grand Cayman will allow you to stay in the Caribbean and slow the pace a bit. Or you can shop for an apartment in Paris or Rome so that you always have a place in Europe to return to when you need to get away from it all and generate new ideas.
In addition to vacationing in other parts of the world, you may even choose to move away permanently. Of course, this will depend upon many factors, including your relationships, your job, and your ability to uproot yourself and start completely fresh someplace else. But this could be the perfect opportunity to use a company like Dream Finders to find your ideal home and start with a clean slate.
When you move to a new place, you can test your limits, take stock of your own strengths and weaknesses, and meet new people who influence you. All of these experiences aren't only great teachers but also serve as great inspiration for whatever it is that you write. But, again, if this is a bit too much for you right now, you can always take some much-needed time away by travelling alone or with friends and family to your favourite places on the globe.
Reading books is an important part of being a writer. Whether you prefer fiction or non-fiction doesn't matter. The key is simply that you read. After all, if you don't read, you won't be inspired by someone else's writing and you may not find anyone else you wish to emulate in order to develop your own writing skills and create your own voice.
Even just reading the newspaper is important if you're a writer. How does the news make you feel? Does it inspire you to write a story, fiction or otherwise, that will be relevant to today's society? Or does it make you angry or sad to the point that you want to write an editorial piece and put your emotions down on paper?
Finding inspiration to keep your writing fresh and unique is a difficult, never-ending process for many writers. But it can be easier if you just open yourself up to new experiences, new scenery, and the writing of others.
6/16/14
Traitor's Knife by E Kaiser Writes - Review
When the loyalist cause enlists the mountain house into a weaponry, apprentice Fia is confronted with three refugee children, a disturbingly upstart former messenger, and accidents happening everywhere. Are saboteurs out to nix the weapons works... or is it the incognito crown prince they're after? Traitor's Knife continues where Jeweler's Apprentice ended, and nearly seventeen year old Fia Brithin from the foothills still has a lot to learn about the mountains, and the people now in them.
My thoughts:
Traitor's Knife by E. Kaiser Writes is the second book in the Five Gems series for teens and young adults. It follows the book Jeweler's Apprentice. This fantasy novel features Fia as the main character and she is an apprentice who must draw on her bravery throughout the story. Her brothers and sisters are also part of the tale, several playing large roles, from courageous warriors to quiet healers. Readers will also encounter a prince, princess, and a traitor. The author's writing is engaging and flows well. I enjoyed the story and think it's a great read for young adults. It's exciting but not scary. As in any series, I would recommend reading book one first.
Click to purchase - Traitor's Knife (Five Gems)
Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus #WonderBottle - Review
Disclosure: I received product at no charge in exchange for my honest review.
In addition to its ability to reduce wrinkles in clothes, Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus can be used as a quick-fix solution to remove creases from pillowcases, bed sheets, drapery, tablecloths, cloth napkins, ribbons on holiday decorations, and many other household items. A quick spritz can also remove odors and freshen up furniture, pet beds, and infant car seats just to name a few. For those who still want to iron, it serves as a better ironing aid than water without the residue of starch. And in a fashion emergency, Downy Wrinkle Release Plus can even save the day by eliminating static cling.
6/15/14
Giveaways Ending Soon - Enter Now!
- Puritan's Pride Summer-Ready Gift Pack - Ends June 15
- SOL REPUBLIC Jax In-Ear Headphones - Ends June 15
- MyChelle Natural Skin Care Anti-Aging Products - Ends June 15
- Over-door/Wall Jewelry Organizer - Ends June 15
- Book: Crazy Stories, Sane God - Ends June 15
- Two JOLLY TIME Pop Corn free product coupons, 2 winners - Ends June 15
- Jennifer Falls Citrus Zinger and Chicken Soup for the Soul Book - Ends June 16
- Two Wristbands to Taste of North Austin - Ends June 17
- Multitasking Mom's Survival Guide - Ends June 20
- Teach My Baby, Toddler, and Preschooler Sets - Ends Jun 27
- $25 Amazon Gift Code - Ends June 30
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