I've had so much negative feedback from the bullying blog I wrote earlier and from a few bloggers who say my blog needs some oomph. It does. I agree with you. But I'm new at this and I wanted to be different. I still do. But by mid day I started reading a lot and figured I would conform and then I read this on Boost Blog Traffic...
http://boostblogtraffic.com/writers-block/
It has 27 ways to to get out of a rut. The following was my favorite and though some may not like my style, it is all mine. The following is #22
22 Be a Misfit
Being a blogger isn't about conforming to the norms.
Don't feel the pressure to be like your hero bloggers. You have to stand out on the web. You have to be YOU!
Accept your a misfit. Just like me. Just like Jon. Just like all the other bloggers.
Be yourself. Enjoy yourself. Because your enthusiasm is contagious.
I feel better now.
I will take my time, do the best that I can do and in the words of the late Frank Sinatra... Will do it Myyyyyyy Waaaaay!
-Dana
Friday, March 7, 2014
International Womans Day
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It is International Womens Day!!
You go girl!!!!!!
Be proud of YOU... YOU'RE amazing!!
-Dana
I received blogging advice
Oh Well... This just in...
I received an email from experienced blogger Maggie and she said that I would definitely fail due to the fact that I have no pictures, no advertising and no excitement on my blog.
She is correct I am sure. However, I want my readers to know that I am not like everyone else. I am ME! It is something I am trying to instill in my family, so why not practice what I preach.
Yes, I realize you want photos of a recipe, and I will give you that when it is needed and I WILL place photos when warranted but MY blog is straight forward. I give answers to questions. I don't honey coat anything. If you ask me a question I KNOW you want an answer, not sparkly bells and whistles. This will not get me many fans but I am a realist now a days. Just a modern day Anne Landers or Dear Abby.
So in closing... You can find anything you need on the web, any DIY on Pinterest and all the gossip you can handle on Facebook. I'm here to answer questions with a human voice, personal touch and a hint of humor. I'm not a robot.
So bare with me and if you need an answer you can post here or email me.
-Dana
I received an email from experienced blogger Maggie and she said that I would definitely fail due to the fact that I have no pictures, no advertising and no excitement on my blog.
She is correct I am sure. However, I want my readers to know that I am not like everyone else. I am ME! It is something I am trying to instill in my family, so why not practice what I preach.
Yes, I realize you want photos of a recipe, and I will give you that when it is needed and I WILL place photos when warranted but MY blog is straight forward. I give answers to questions. I don't honey coat anything. If you ask me a question I KNOW you want an answer, not sparkly bells and whistles. This will not get me many fans but I am a realist now a days. Just a modern day Anne Landers or Dear Abby.
So in closing... You can find anything you need on the web, any DIY on Pinterest and all the gossip you can handle on Facebook. I'm here to answer questions with a human voice, personal touch and a hint of humor. I'm not a robot.
So bare with me and if you need an answer you can post here or email me.
-Dana
Bullying... A mothers question
This is a disturbing email I received. I wish I could say/do more than just send off this reply.
Hello,
I am a parent of a 13 year old daughter. Her grades are wonderful and she is well liked in school but she is having a few issues with some girls and boys at school with bullying. I have seen a few words written on Facebook about her and do not know if I should intervene or let kids be kids. I'm afraid that if I say something to the school that these kids will only start to bully her worse and then she would be upset with me.
Any help here would be appreciated.
(Name withheld)
OK, I'm about to vomit!!
I understand this mothers plight but really?! I'm a parent of a 13 year old boy. Well liked as well and no issues. But a friend of mine has a son who was bullied in school. She went to the school (Florida has NO BULLYING laws) and was told that they could do nothing UNLESS the bullying was by the same person/people and it was more than 3 times. So if the "group" of children were not caught 3 times and they were not the exact same kids then she was out of luck.
At this point do you connect a camera to your child to catch someone in the act? Do you tell them to man-up and learn to take it...to make them tougher for a vicious world?
Some parents choose the latter because the world is a scary place and think that this prepares their children for life. Some fear that if they fight too hard that their children will become reliant and not self reliant.
I'm claiming BULLSHIT!! MY child comes first before anything! I will climb on you, step on you and crush you if you mess with my child!! I am not a hovering parent and take pride knowing that I keep a close eye on him, from a fair distance as not to smother, but I DO watch!!
I think you should read this story...
http://newsball.com/the-murder-of-skylar-neese-her-16-yr-old-bff-killers-rachel-shoaf-shelia-eddy/
This is just ONE example of what is happening out there.... Just ONE!!
PLEASE, be THAT parent. Watch your child, watch what happens on their social sites and demand that schools do more. It is always us who watch the news, cry for the OTHER families and say NOT MINE. But it does happen to OURS, it could happen to YOURS. Don't be the one on the news having others cry for you and yours. BE diligent, be proactive and fight for the proper growth of your child.
He/she may not always like what we do, obviously they think we are lame and just being dorky parents, But I would rather have my child mad at me for awhile, as opposed to not having my child. I would rather see their angry face at the dinner table than an empty chair and I would rather have a loud door slamming in my face, a screaming match and a few dozen "I hate you moms" then a silent house.
The Neese family don't have that anymore. That kind of silence is bitter and breaks ones heart.
I'm not a perfect parent, none of us are, but I will be damned if I'm not gonna fight for mine and others.
My advice: Be a PARENT!!! Don't worry about being your daughters friend. That is NOT your job!!!
If you stand up for something then your child learns a life lesson and will stand for others...
I could go on forever but I'm gonna let you be THE PARENT. Research my dear, become active and STAND UP!!
-Dana
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http://www.standupday.com/08/participants/index.php?target=pages&page_id=intro
Sadly, I am getting emails from parents who do not like my approach and obviously did not look up the link I added OR they are just such lax parents that they obviously don't care. This truly saddens me. So when you see little "Joey" growing up and being a rotten snot, take a moment to look quietly at his parents and blame them!! I have no problem taking emails, it is what I do. However, Please be ADULT enough to make a comment on here for the world to see, not hide behind closed doors. YOU MUST BE A GREAT EXAMPLE TO YOU CHILD!!!!
*PASS THIS ALONG, SHOW THAT YOU ARE A STRONG PARENT*
Hello,
I am a parent of a 13 year old daughter. Her grades are wonderful and she is well liked in school but she is having a few issues with some girls and boys at school with bullying. I have seen a few words written on Facebook about her and do not know if I should intervene or let kids be kids. I'm afraid that if I say something to the school that these kids will only start to bully her worse and then she would be upset with me.
Any help here would be appreciated.
(Name withheld)
OK, I'm about to vomit!!
I understand this mothers plight but really?! I'm a parent of a 13 year old boy. Well liked as well and no issues. But a friend of mine has a son who was bullied in school. She went to the school (Florida has NO BULLYING laws) and was told that they could do nothing UNLESS the bullying was by the same person/people and it was more than 3 times. So if the "group" of children were not caught 3 times and they were not the exact same kids then she was out of luck.
At this point do you connect a camera to your child to catch someone in the act? Do you tell them to man-up and learn to take it...to make them tougher for a vicious world?
Some parents choose the latter because the world is a scary place and think that this prepares their children for life. Some fear that if they fight too hard that their children will become reliant and not self reliant.
I'm claiming BULLSHIT!! MY child comes first before anything! I will climb on you, step on you and crush you if you mess with my child!! I am not a hovering parent and take pride knowing that I keep a close eye on him, from a fair distance as not to smother, but I DO watch!!
I think you should read this story...
http://newsball.com/the-murder-of-skylar-neese-her-16-yr-old-bff-killers-rachel-shoaf-shelia-eddy/
This is just ONE example of what is happening out there.... Just ONE!!
PLEASE, be THAT parent. Watch your child, watch what happens on their social sites and demand that schools do more. It is always us who watch the news, cry for the OTHER families and say NOT MINE. But it does happen to OURS, it could happen to YOURS. Don't be the one on the news having others cry for you and yours. BE diligent, be proactive and fight for the proper growth of your child.
He/she may not always like what we do, obviously they think we are lame and just being dorky parents, But I would rather have my child mad at me for awhile, as opposed to not having my child. I would rather see their angry face at the dinner table than an empty chair and I would rather have a loud door slamming in my face, a screaming match and a few dozen "I hate you moms" then a silent house.
The Neese family don't have that anymore. That kind of silence is bitter and breaks ones heart.
I'm not a perfect parent, none of us are, but I will be damned if I'm not gonna fight for mine and others.
My advice: Be a PARENT!!! Don't worry about being your daughters friend. That is NOT your job!!!
If you stand up for something then your child learns a life lesson and will stand for others...
I could go on forever but I'm gonna let you be THE PARENT. Research my dear, become active and STAND UP!!
-Dana
Sadly, I am getting emails from parents who do not like my approach and obviously did not look up the link I added OR they are just such lax parents that they obviously don't care. This truly saddens me. So when you see little "Joey" growing up and being a rotten snot, take a moment to look quietly at his parents and blame them!! I have no problem taking emails, it is what I do. However, Please be ADULT enough to make a comment on here for the world to see, not hide behind closed doors. YOU MUST BE A GREAT EXAMPLE TO YOU CHILD!!!!
*PASS THIS ALONG, SHOW THAT YOU ARE A STRONG PARENT*
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Carrot Cake Truffles
Dana- I am having a pool party for family and friends on Saturday. I wanted to make a simple desert that doesn't have any chocolate because a couple people don't eat it. Any ideas? Also can you make it a clean desert do it doesnt get in the pool.
Thanks
First let me say that it is dessert, otherwise you are feeding family sand. I'm sure you didn't mean to spell it that way, but for those reading this and may have thought it to be correct...not!
As for dessert....
This is the quickest thing in the world and people will think you are a goddess for making it. Don't give them the recipe, tell them it is a family secret.
1 Box of carrot cake mix
1 container of cream cheese frosting mix
1 bag or brick of WHITE chocolate (for melting and dipping)
Easy as cake.
Follow cake instructions and bake it in whatever pan you have. Either 2 rounds, 2 squares or an oblong.
Once the cake is completely cool (must be cool) crumble it up in a bowl. Now, mix in 3/4 of the Cream Cheese frosting and mix well.
Next take either a small scoop or a teaspoon and roll yourself a bunch of balls. About 1 inch or so and place them on a cookie sheet.
When you are done place them in the freezer for 10 minutes.
Now get a double boiler and melt your white chocolate (which isn't really chocolate at all).
When your chocolate is all melted, pull your cake balls out of the freezer, grab a skewer, skewer a ball and dip it in the white chocolate. Place them on a sheet of waxed paper on a cookie sheet and place in the fridge to chill.
Viola!!
Place on a pretty dish and serve. YOU have now made beautiful carrot cake truffles that are to die for. Simple, no plates needed and no mess.
And if one ends up in the pool...grab a net and deal with it.
Enjoy!!
-Dana
Thanks
First let me say that it is dessert, otherwise you are feeding family sand. I'm sure you didn't mean to spell it that way, but for those reading this and may have thought it to be correct...not!
As for dessert....
This is the quickest thing in the world and people will think you are a goddess for making it. Don't give them the recipe, tell them it is a family secret.
1 Box of carrot cake mix
1 container of cream cheese frosting mix
1 bag or brick of WHITE chocolate (for melting and dipping)
Easy as cake.
Follow cake instructions and bake it in whatever pan you have. Either 2 rounds, 2 squares or an oblong.
Once the cake is completely cool (must be cool) crumble it up in a bowl. Now, mix in 3/4 of the Cream Cheese frosting and mix well.
Next take either a small scoop or a teaspoon and roll yourself a bunch of balls. About 1 inch or so and place them on a cookie sheet.
When you are done place them in the freezer for 10 minutes.
Now get a double boiler and melt your white chocolate (which isn't really chocolate at all).
When your chocolate is all melted, pull your cake balls out of the freezer, grab a skewer, skewer a ball and dip it in the white chocolate. Place them on a sheet of waxed paper on a cookie sheet and place in the fridge to chill.
Viola!!
Place on a pretty dish and serve. YOU have now made beautiful carrot cake truffles that are to die for. Simple, no plates needed and no mess.
And if one ends up in the pool...grab a net and deal with it.
Enjoy!!
-Dana
Logarithmic Differentiation
Oh My Eric.....
It has been a long time but here is your answer to your question. However, the other 4 you sent me you will have to figure out yourself. If I give you all the answers you will never learn them yourself. I know I know, it sucks but I had to learn it many years ago and you will have to now.
YOUR QUESTION:
Calculate the derivative of the function
.
DANAS ANSWER (HA)
Using logarithmic differentiation, we get
It has been a long time but here is your answer to your question. However, the other 4 you sent me you will have to figure out yourself. If I give you all the answers you will never learn them yourself. I know I know, it sucks but I had to learn it many years ago and you will have to now.
YOUR QUESTION:
Calculate the derivative of the function
.DANAS ANSWER (HA)
Again, I hope this helps. There are many places to go online for help. My kids always checked out www.kahnacademy.com They can help from 1st grade all through college.
-Dana
Diet Question
Dear Lord a diet question!!
I'm not going to copy and paste the email because it was very long and detailed and my response is small...kinda.
Jess,
Listen to me. some may think that your frame of 5 foot 9 and 182 pounds is obese but technically you are just a bit overweight I presume.
First, stop stressing over it. Believe in who you are and start from there. You said that you were 48. Well babe, that is the age when most woman are hitting pre-menopause and the weight is just harder to take off. But YOU can do it in a a few simple steps. I will even bet you on it.
Everyone wants a quick fix for weight loss. There is none. I'm sorry to burst you bubble. But if you follow the below info I am sure you will start to see the weight come off in the first 2 weeks.
First, The old adage holds true. EAT LIKE ROYALTY!
A King in the morning
A Queen in the afternoon
A Prince in the evening
Breakfast should consist of eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers, avacado and a teaspoon of an oil and vinegar based dressing.
Next, snack every 2 hours!! Yes, I said snack.
Celery.. 2 pieces with cream cheese or peanut butter
Swiss cheese and ham rolls 2. You can use any meat or cheese. Want more? Add a baby dill or sweet pickle to your roll ups.
Lunch is Tuna and white beans with a bit of red onion.
Tomatoes with the oil and vinegar dressing of your choice, add cukes or celery
Keep snacking 2 hours after lunch!
Carrots and a tablespoon of hummus.
Crispy iceberg lettuce pieces
Avocado
Keep snacking till dinner!
Then enjoy a meat or fish. You CAN eat beef and or pork. After awhile chicken becomes yuck. Fish is awesome of any style.
OK, so Im not capable of drawing out a whole menu plan but I hope you are getting the idea.
Stop eating at 7 PM!
Lets put it in simple terms..
NO Potatoes
No corn
No rice
No bread
Eat it only if it NOT from a bag or box.
If you need to snack more then do so. Add a handful of almonds or walnuts
scramble a egg with some spinach and cheese
Stuff a large tomato with tuna or salmon.
It isn't hard really. It will take a week for you to get used to it. You WILL be full.
I know that this was basic info and please if you want more elaborate info just let me know.
This is just a sample. Add some exercise every day. If you do not have time or are not ready to exercise that is OK. While watching TV, run in place every commercial, do a few sit ups, stretch and bend, do arm circles back and forth. DON"T let anyone fool you. Starting small counts!! Add more exercise moments every 3 days.
Write me and let me know how it goes... you lose 5 pounds in 2 weeks and I will send you a goodie in the mail!
Much success,
-Dana
Panic Attack Help without severe drugs...
Good Afternoon Everyone,
I am so busy today that I haven't had a moment to post much. But I did get an email from Sue who asked kind of an offbeat question, but I did say I can answer anything.
So Sue... here is MY answer.
Dana,
My name is Sue and I have experienced anxiety/panic attacks for the last few years or so. My doctor prescribed xanax but on a limited basis. I am out of them and he refuses to give me another prescription right now. I don't take them every day just when needed and i could really use one. Do you have an answer for this?
Thanks, Sue
Hi Sue,
First.... breathe. In through your nose and out through your mouth. The biggest inhales you can take. Do 3 of these every 2 minutes until you can calm just a bit. Now, like I said in a previous post, we are a family of herbalists so I'm not high on the pill/drug thing but I do have an answer.
*DISCLAIMER ... I am not a doctor nor do I claim to be. Always consult your doctor before trying anything new or even holistic.
Now, back to your question. you can take Arnica Montana and Magnesia Phosphorica. These will help calm and are great for inflammation. There are several herbal remedies, that taken daily can reduce some stress and give you a relaxed feeling. But again, read up on them. However, if you are having a panic attack and need relief TILL you can see you doctor or health care professional you can take a Dramamine or a motion sickness pill. This will stop the spinning and nausea and calm you enough to get by. It will make you sleepy though so it is best NOT to drive or do anything that could injure you or anyone else. Lay down and relax. Wake up and feel better.
Again, the most important thing is to learn breathing exercises. Learn to self calm. I know, I know... people always tell you to think happy thoughts huh? Don't they know if you could do that you wouldn't have these attacks? Do they think you enjoy them? Unless you have suffered from them it is hard to explain to someone what you are going through. Breathe, meditate and learn to self soothe is a start till you can slowly ween yourself off drugs.
Best Wishes Sue seriously!! I'm here if you ever need to just vent.
-Dana
I am so busy today that I haven't had a moment to post much. But I did get an email from Sue who asked kind of an offbeat question, but I did say I can answer anything.
So Sue... here is MY answer.
Dana,
My name is Sue and I have experienced anxiety/panic attacks for the last few years or so. My doctor prescribed xanax but on a limited basis. I am out of them and he refuses to give me another prescription right now. I don't take them every day just when needed and i could really use one. Do you have an answer for this?
Thanks, Sue
Hi Sue,
First.... breathe. In through your nose and out through your mouth. The biggest inhales you can take. Do 3 of these every 2 minutes until you can calm just a bit. Now, like I said in a previous post, we are a family of herbalists so I'm not high on the pill/drug thing but I do have an answer.
*DISCLAIMER ... I am not a doctor nor do I claim to be. Always consult your doctor before trying anything new or even holistic.
Now, back to your question. you can take Arnica Montana and Magnesia Phosphorica. These will help calm and are great for inflammation. There are several herbal remedies, that taken daily can reduce some stress and give you a relaxed feeling. But again, read up on them. However, if you are having a panic attack and need relief TILL you can see you doctor or health care professional you can take a Dramamine or a motion sickness pill. This will stop the spinning and nausea and calm you enough to get by. It will make you sleepy though so it is best NOT to drive or do anything that could injure you or anyone else. Lay down and relax. Wake up and feel better.
Again, the most important thing is to learn breathing exercises. Learn to self calm. I know, I know... people always tell you to think happy thoughts huh? Don't they know if you could do that you wouldn't have these attacks? Do they think you enjoy them? Unless you have suffered from them it is hard to explain to someone what you are going through. Breathe, meditate and learn to self soothe is a start till you can slowly ween yourself off drugs.
Best Wishes Sue seriously!! I'm here if you ever need to just vent.
-Dana
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Giveaway and Poll
OK, I'm taking a break from reading all of your emails but I want to put out this poll and then will start working on a monthly giveaway.
But before I start I need some info. Brief. Leave in the comment section your age, gender and what types of giveaways you would like. This way I have some ideas for Aprils giveaway and can tailor it all around you...my readers.
Tell me honestly if you would like food, clothes, cosmetics, jewelry, tools etc. NO, I do not think we are at the stages of giving away trips or cars but you never know what the future holds.
I want to hear from you here, not just in my email box. Speak out... Gimme all you got!!
-Dana
But before I start I need some info. Brief. Leave in the comment section your age, gender and what types of giveaways you would like. This way I have some ideas for Aprils giveaway and can tailor it all around you...my readers.
Tell me honestly if you would like food, clothes, cosmetics, jewelry, tools etc. NO, I do not think we are at the stages of giving away trips or cars but you never know what the future holds.
I want to hear from you here, not just in my email box. Speak out... Gimme all you got!!
-Dana
Gym and my wife....
Dear Dana,
What a cute site you are trying to start. Although there are only several posts so far I find that I learned a bit from each and they all had a hint of humor in them. That was refreshing.
I have a question for you and lets see if you can possibly help.
I have been married for 3 years and have an 18 month old son. My wife walks around the house constantly complaining that her weight has gone up. She eats pretty well and is not a big snacker. She has little time to exercise but does do some aerobics in front of our TV when she can. Question is... Our anniversary is coming up and I would like to get her a small home gym but am afraid I will insult her and hurt her feelings. I love her more than anything and am just trying to give her something she would want. Is this the right thing to do or should I just go out and buy the old standard of jewelry?
Can't wait to hear your response.
B.W.
Houston
B.W.
Wow, are you up shits creek! Seriously, you are doing all the right things. Hearing that you love your wife is wonderful and how proud you must be of your newest member.
Personally I think that a small home gym is a great gift. However, you did not mention your age and with a young child I will assume you are younger. Some woman might take your gift as an insult but you have to be strong knowing that you married this amazing woman and you know what she likes. Be positive. Might I suggest that you also get her a new work-out outfit and give that first. Then when presenting your other gift let her know it is for the both of you technically and if you BOTH enjoy it then maybe you could join a local gym TOGETHER in the future. Tell her that YOU need it as well, even if you are the fittest man there is, let her know that your love handles need help too.
Now at this point she will either think you are the bestest hubby for listening to her needs or be a tad upset. Don't let that bother you. Wrestle her to the floor, throw some kisses on her and make the moment that much more fun. Then pull her off the floor, suggest a shower and a babysitter and tell her that you are taking out to dinner to pack on a few pounds so you both can come home and try out that new gym.
Never waste moments on being mad or upset. If you change the moment when it starts to unravel then it will ALWAYS have a better outcome I promise.
I hope you both have many happy years together and get much use out of your gym. Teach your little one good habits as he grows as well and don't forget that home gyms make great places to toss your clothes at the end of the day and are never a waste of money..expensive clothes hangers but never a waste.
Best wishes!!
-Dana
What a cute site you are trying to start. Although there are only several posts so far I find that I learned a bit from each and they all had a hint of humor in them. That was refreshing.
I have a question for you and lets see if you can possibly help.
I have been married for 3 years and have an 18 month old son. My wife walks around the house constantly complaining that her weight has gone up. She eats pretty well and is not a big snacker. She has little time to exercise but does do some aerobics in front of our TV when she can. Question is... Our anniversary is coming up and I would like to get her a small home gym but am afraid I will insult her and hurt her feelings. I love her more than anything and am just trying to give her something she would want. Is this the right thing to do or should I just go out and buy the old standard of jewelry?
Can't wait to hear your response.
B.W.
Houston
B.W.
Wow, are you up shits creek! Seriously, you are doing all the right things. Hearing that you love your wife is wonderful and how proud you must be of your newest member.
Personally I think that a small home gym is a great gift. However, you did not mention your age and with a young child I will assume you are younger. Some woman might take your gift as an insult but you have to be strong knowing that you married this amazing woman and you know what she likes. Be positive. Might I suggest that you also get her a new work-out outfit and give that first. Then when presenting your other gift let her know it is for the both of you technically and if you BOTH enjoy it then maybe you could join a local gym TOGETHER in the future. Tell her that YOU need it as well, even if you are the fittest man there is, let her know that your love handles need help too.
Now at this point she will either think you are the bestest hubby for listening to her needs or be a tad upset. Don't let that bother you. Wrestle her to the floor, throw some kisses on her and make the moment that much more fun. Then pull her off the floor, suggest a shower and a babysitter and tell her that you are taking out to dinner to pack on a few pounds so you both can come home and try out that new gym.
Never waste moments on being mad or upset. If you change the moment when it starts to unravel then it will ALWAYS have a better outcome I promise.
I hope you both have many happy years together and get much use out of your gym. Teach your little one good habits as he grows as well and don't forget that home gyms make great places to toss your clothes at the end of the day and are never a waste of money..expensive clothes hangers but never a waste.
Best wishes!!
-Dana
HELP! Bleach on my black business blouse!
OK, This is a quick post as I believe M.J.C. has an issue that needs to be addressed ASAP...
Breathe first of all. What is done is done and freaking out over it won't fix it. We have all been there. Cleaning and in a rush and manage to look down and notice that we have a bleach spot on out clothes (blankets, dish towels...you get the idea). No need to panic. I suggest to begin with that we all keep an arsenal of Sharpie permanent markers on hand. They work well for EVERYTHING!
The list is long from fixing scraped heels and leather toe pieces to coloring in a piece of your Grandmothers hutch that you just ran into with the turkey platter. For clothing, always check it in a spot that nobody will notice and go lighter. But in this case you really can't screw up the black blouse. Just gently, with paper towel as backing blot the blouse with the marker. This should hold through several washes.
Simplicity huh? Told you all you had to do is breathe. And if you don't have a Sharpie then your childs marker will do in a pinch and hold till you get home from work.
Hope this helped!
-Dana
Breathe first of all. What is done is done and freaking out over it won't fix it. We have all been there. Cleaning and in a rush and manage to look down and notice that we have a bleach spot on out clothes (blankets, dish towels...you get the idea). No need to panic. I suggest to begin with that we all keep an arsenal of Sharpie permanent markers on hand. They work well for EVERYTHING!
The list is long from fixing scraped heels and leather toe pieces to coloring in a piece of your Grandmothers hutch that you just ran into with the turkey platter. For clothing, always check it in a spot that nobody will notice and go lighter. But in this case you really can't screw up the black blouse. Just gently, with paper towel as backing blot the blouse with the marker. This should hold through several washes.
Simplicity huh? Told you all you had to do is breathe. And if you don't have a Sharpie then your childs marker will do in a pinch and hold till you get home from work.
Hope this helped!
-Dana
THANK YOU!!!
Oh MY and a good morning to everyone!
Waking up to find so many emails. People with so many questions. I will have to take an hour to read them all then reply to what I can. You all do know that you CAN post on my blog right? Ha ha!
I have parental questions, food questions, relationship dilemmas and goodness, a plethora of herbal questions. All of the awesome questions too.
Someone did ask me to please make my blog more appealing and pretty. Well, I guess I can do that but I don't believe that today will be the day but I can tell you that it will be soon.
Another did ask, well, not a question but a challenge. Actually they were complaining about politics and people on "food stamps" and how they spend the money on food. OK, I will answer the challenge in a minute with a brief story but first let me put this in writing...
I WILL NOT DISCUSS POLITICS OR AT LEAST MY VIEWS, I WILL NOT DISCUSS SOMEONES RACE NOR WILL I TOLERATE SOMEONE ELSE DISCUSSING IT. I WILL NOT ACCEPT COMMENTS ON RELIGION NOR WILL I POST BUNCH OF ANGRY COMMENTS WITH AN ABUNDANCE OF CUSSING!! GOT IT??
Now, the only reason why I am even answering this is because I did want to make a thrifty point. I will only reply to a specific part of the email.
"Dana, blah blah blah, I see people blowing their food stamps on high cuts of meat and expensive foods. I believe they should buy cheaper and feed their families"
Yeah, I left much of the crap out that someone was spewing. My view...
#1 Because you are in need of food stamps does not mean that at every meal you need to eat hot dogs and beans. Many people on food stamps do work and need a helping hand on a temporary basis. ALL people deserve to eat good. Maybe when you saw them purchasing their high end food that that was their weekly treat. YOU don't know if they ate rice and beans the rest of the week and sacrificed for that one amazing meal that they could share with their family. You complained, got your blood pressure up and made a statement. After all this YOU accomplished nothing. However, you did pass judgement... Someone will judge you at one time.... karma!
#2 There was a few moments in the beginning of my married life (25+yrs) that times were tough. However we never went hungry. The above made me think of a moment and the cost of that moment in todays terms.
I remember it was a Thursday. My husbands payday was Friday and the cupboards were almost bare. I almost panicked. I called my mom and she reminded me of a story called "Rock Soup". Obviously I wasn't running around asking neighbors for bits and pieces but I did rummage through my own kitchen and played the game. I had a frozen pork chop. Goodness knows why there was only one but there was. I sliced that poor little thing in the thinnest strips and fried it with a 1/4 of an onion I found in the fridge. I added a piece of green pepper that was in the same baggie as the onion. I guess it was about a tablespoon or so of chopped green pepper. They were all cooked and smelled amazing but what now? Crawling down to the lower cabinet I found a package of brown gravy mix. I made that and added it. Next I boiled a cup of rice and served them together with a wedge of lettuce I split between the 4 of us. Pepper steak!! It was delicious and out bellies were all fed. My children were not hungry and my husband was proud and bragged to his friends how his wife could feed the family on a few cents. At first I wasn't proud but after supper, knowing I fed everyone I was beaming.
Now many years later I still make that same dinner with variations of pork or beef. I use way more than a chop as my 3 boys are 14, 20 and 23. Actually, I buy a whole pork roast and cut it down myself. Anyways, my point was that it can be done. At $4.99 a pound for pork chops I'm guessing one will run about $1.25. An onion .30, a pepper .70 and a package of cheap ole gravy mix .50. Now add some rice which is like $1.19 a 2 cup bag and you are only using half. It can be done... it is not prime rib with a side of lobster but it is good decent meal at a cost of $3.35. IT can be done.
Well, I guess I made my point in some way. I'm not truly sure how though. I will just end by saying we all pinch pennies at least once in our lives and if not now then possibly one day so work on judging. You never know when it might come back to bite you in the ass!
Now I am off to read all of your emails and answer as many as I can before it is time to become super mom and do my time in the dreaded car line!!
Blessings for your day,
-Dana
Waking up to find so many emails. People with so many questions. I will have to take an hour to read them all then reply to what I can. You all do know that you CAN post on my blog right? Ha ha!
I have parental questions, food questions, relationship dilemmas and goodness, a plethora of herbal questions. All of the awesome questions too.
Someone did ask me to please make my blog more appealing and pretty. Well, I guess I can do that but I don't believe that today will be the day but I can tell you that it will be soon.
Another did ask, well, not a question but a challenge. Actually they were complaining about politics and people on "food stamps" and how they spend the money on food. OK, I will answer the challenge in a minute with a brief story but first let me put this in writing...
I WILL NOT DISCUSS POLITICS OR AT LEAST MY VIEWS, I WILL NOT DISCUSS SOMEONES RACE NOR WILL I TOLERATE SOMEONE ELSE DISCUSSING IT. I WILL NOT ACCEPT COMMENTS ON RELIGION NOR WILL I POST BUNCH OF ANGRY COMMENTS WITH AN ABUNDANCE OF CUSSING!! GOT IT??
Now, the only reason why I am even answering this is because I did want to make a thrifty point. I will only reply to a specific part of the email.
"Dana, blah blah blah, I see people blowing their food stamps on high cuts of meat and expensive foods. I believe they should buy cheaper and feed their families"
Yeah, I left much of the crap out that someone was spewing. My view...
#1 Because you are in need of food stamps does not mean that at every meal you need to eat hot dogs and beans. Many people on food stamps do work and need a helping hand on a temporary basis. ALL people deserve to eat good. Maybe when you saw them purchasing their high end food that that was their weekly treat. YOU don't know if they ate rice and beans the rest of the week and sacrificed for that one amazing meal that they could share with their family. You complained, got your blood pressure up and made a statement. After all this YOU accomplished nothing. However, you did pass judgement... Someone will judge you at one time.... karma!
#2 There was a few moments in the beginning of my married life (25+yrs) that times were tough. However we never went hungry. The above made me think of a moment and the cost of that moment in todays terms.
I remember it was a Thursday. My husbands payday was Friday and the cupboards were almost bare. I almost panicked. I called my mom and she reminded me of a story called "Rock Soup". Obviously I wasn't running around asking neighbors for bits and pieces but I did rummage through my own kitchen and played the game. I had a frozen pork chop. Goodness knows why there was only one but there was. I sliced that poor little thing in the thinnest strips and fried it with a 1/4 of an onion I found in the fridge. I added a piece of green pepper that was in the same baggie as the onion. I guess it was about a tablespoon or so of chopped green pepper. They were all cooked and smelled amazing but what now? Crawling down to the lower cabinet I found a package of brown gravy mix. I made that and added it. Next I boiled a cup of rice and served them together with a wedge of lettuce I split between the 4 of us. Pepper steak!! It was delicious and out bellies were all fed. My children were not hungry and my husband was proud and bragged to his friends how his wife could feed the family on a few cents. At first I wasn't proud but after supper, knowing I fed everyone I was beaming.
Now many years later I still make that same dinner with variations of pork or beef. I use way more than a chop as my 3 boys are 14, 20 and 23. Actually, I buy a whole pork roast and cut it down myself. Anyways, my point was that it can be done. At $4.99 a pound for pork chops I'm guessing one will run about $1.25. An onion .30, a pepper .70 and a package of cheap ole gravy mix .50. Now add some rice which is like $1.19 a 2 cup bag and you are only using half. It can be done... it is not prime rib with a side of lobster but it is good decent meal at a cost of $3.35. IT can be done.
Well, I guess I made my point in some way. I'm not truly sure how though. I will just end by saying we all pinch pennies at least once in our lives and if not now then possibly one day so work on judging. You never know when it might come back to bite you in the ass!
Now I am off to read all of your emails and answer as many as I can before it is time to become super mom and do my time in the dreaded car line!!
Blessings for your day,
-Dana
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
THANK YOU!! 32 emails in my first hour or so.
I will answer a few each day so please be patient. But note that I will answer each and every one of you. For those who don't care to have your dirty laundry questions posted directly just drop me an email with the word QUESTION in the subject line.
I WILL NOT share your email, identity or private information with anyone.
So what are you waiting for... shake the magic 8 ball and ask a question. I will always do my honest best to answer. You may not always like my answer but you WILL get one.
Looking forward to meeting you all...
-Dana
I will answer a few each day so please be patient. But note that I will answer each and every one of you. For those who don't care to have your dirty laundry questions posted directly just drop me an email with the word QUESTION in the subject line.
I WILL NOT share your email, identity or private information with anyone.
So what are you waiting for... shake the magic 8 ball and ask a question. I will always do my honest best to answer. You may not always like my answer but you WILL get one.
Looking forward to meeting you all...
-Dana
Jim asks about his 16 year old daughters acne.
Hmmm, so many solutions. But I do have one that I forced my children to try and as they have grown reminded me AND thanked me.
First buy some cheap aspirin. Not the coated kind, but the basic white tablets found anywhere.
Get a small cup, jar or do-dad-thingy you have to mix a small paste. 1 part aspirin to 3 parts water. you can crush the aspirin or just let it fall apart on its own
Ready? Aspirin is an anti-inflammatory so you can put it directly on a red, swollen or sore one. This should bring down the redness and swelling. Aspirin also contains salicylic acid, which is in most acne treatments (for a price might I add!). This compound will help dry up the acne. Dab some on with a clean cotton ball (do people actually use dirty ones?) Best used at night before bed because you don't want the world seeing your face with a layer of white crust.
Simple, natural and the same thing a high priced cream would do.
BONUS: crush 2 aspirins to a pulp and apply with your shampoo each time. Leave it on for 1-2 minutes and rinse. Again, the salicylic acid is the same that is in medicated dandruff shampoos. Less processed garbage in your and you won't smell like a medicated wash!!
Keep me posted Jim.
-Dana
Hmmm, so many solutions. But I do have one that I forced my children to try and as they have grown reminded me AND thanked me.
First buy some cheap aspirin. Not the coated kind, but the basic white tablets found anywhere.
Get a small cup, jar or do-dad-thingy you have to mix a small paste. 1 part aspirin to 3 parts water. you can crush the aspirin or just let it fall apart on its own
Ready? Aspirin is an anti-inflammatory so you can put it directly on a red, swollen or sore one. This should bring down the redness and swelling. Aspirin also contains salicylic acid, which is in most acne treatments (for a price might I add!). This compound will help dry up the acne. Dab some on with a clean cotton ball (do people actually use dirty ones?) Best used at night before bed because you don't want the world seeing your face with a layer of white crust.
Simple, natural and the same thing a high priced cream would do.
BONUS: crush 2 aspirins to a pulp and apply with your shampoo each time. Leave it on for 1-2 minutes and rinse. Again, the salicylic acid is the same that is in medicated dandruff shampoos. Less processed garbage in your and you won't smell like a medicated wash!!
Keep me posted Jim.
-Dana
I'm so laughing because "Gloria" sent a photo with her question and it reminded me of, well....me!
Before I was a mom, caterer and all round go to "mom" I had my nails done at the salon weekly. I loved the reds and dark oranges but after awhile when time was not so readily available and funds slowed down I just gave up on the manis and pedis and opted to let my fingers and piggies breathe for awhile.
However, the hint of color remained in a dusty haze that was noticeable to me. Nobody else actually cared.
Solution? Grab yourself a lemon or grapefruit and when your bottom is plopped down on the couch, dig your nails into it. Something like a cat clawing on your best leather sofa. Takes only a few minutes a day but in a few days those nails will be beautifully white. Just think, you didn't use any chemicals on them at all either!
Heavy stains? Cut the lemon in half, use the juice for some fine lemonade (maybe a gin and tonic) and scratch the inside with your nails.
Minor disclaimer here folks... if your skin is sensitive PLEASE wash hands when you are done and lotion up them fingers. Lemon is a form of exfoliant and will thin those rotten dried cuticles as well (for me this is good) for you, maybe not. Not to mention if you are like me... I rub the lemon/grapefruit oil that has come out of the skin all over my hands then love all over the hubby. Once he say how wonderful I smell, THEN I go wash them off. That's a free bonus :)
Hope this works out for you Gloria.
-Dana
Before I was a mom, caterer and all round go to "mom" I had my nails done at the salon weekly. I loved the reds and dark oranges but after awhile when time was not so readily available and funds slowed down I just gave up on the manis and pedis and opted to let my fingers and piggies breathe for awhile.
However, the hint of color remained in a dusty haze that was noticeable to me. Nobody else actually cared.
Solution? Grab yourself a lemon or grapefruit and when your bottom is plopped down on the couch, dig your nails into it. Something like a cat clawing on your best leather sofa. Takes only a few minutes a day but in a few days those nails will be beautifully white. Just think, you didn't use any chemicals on them at all either!
Heavy stains? Cut the lemon in half, use the juice for some fine lemonade (maybe a gin and tonic) and scratch the inside with your nails.
Minor disclaimer here folks... if your skin is sensitive PLEASE wash hands when you are done and lotion up them fingers. Lemon is a form of exfoliant and will thin those rotten dried cuticles as well (for me this is good) for you, maybe not. Not to mention if you are like me... I rub the lemon/grapefruit oil that has come out of the skin all over my hands then love all over the hubby. Once he say how wonderful I smell, THEN I go wash them off. That's a free bonus :)
Hope this works out for you Gloria.
-Dana
Well, I didn't expect to get so many emails so fast!! So I will answer a couple of them today.
Jill asked...
Dana, My children love Hamburger Helper, the quick junk food that comes in a box. I'm a working mom and I truly know it is not the best thing in the world to feed them but it seems to be semi-nutritious and it is quick and easy. Do you know of any way to replace this boxed product with something better?
Thanks,
Jill
Why yes I do Jill. It is almost just as fast and way better for the kids AND you. You can even modify it to suit dietary needs.
1- lb Hamburger (calories go down if you use lean)
1- 8 oz container sour cream (low fat brings it down lower)
1 pkg egg noodles (NoYolks style brings down the carbs)
1 or 2 pkgs instant brown gravy mix
Fresh parsley (dried is just fine)
pinch of pepper
No salt needed as the gravy mix will cover that. However, tastes are different on everyone so adjust to your liking.
Simplicity at its best...
Brown and drain hamburger and place on the side to remove excess fat.
boil and drain noodles
in a small sauce pan boil 1-2 cups of water (depending on how many packages of gravy mix you use) and make gravy according to package instructions.
Now grab yourself a large bowl or be lazy and put the noodles, hamburger and half of your gravy mixture, 1/2 the sour cream in said bowl and mix away. Now again to preference, add more gravy and or sour cream to your liking. Last, toss in a nice handful of fresh parsely or a tablespoon of dried.
Tah-Dah!! Hamburger helper that YOU customized. Simple as the box, no additives, trans fats and trust me... your family will love it!
Not enough? Add 1 cup of string beans to make it a complete meal. Fresh is best but if you are in a hurry add a drained can of no salt string beans.
Hope this helped Jill and I hope your family loves it!!
-Dana
A new beginning for us all...
Finally on my feet again and feeling much better.
I had originally started this little blog to be able to air MY thoughts and complain to the world of what I thought. Stress about my children and make satirical comments about my husband but then a friend had asked me to write an advice column.
Are you kidding me I asked. Me?! She explained that I have always had the right, honest answers. Another friend said I should do a blog on living an herbal life. That is truly what I do. Not some vegan/vegetarian lifestyle mind you but holistically. My children don't need antibiotics when sick and I have a natural remedy for just about anything.
My 3rd friend said that I have the best ideas for cleaning. Maybe so... Im not sure on that one but I can help you make you and your home cleaner and smell better.
So, If you have come to this page expecting sponsors, pretty pages and an excess of froo froo that's not happening. I'm not here to make a million dollars nor am I hear to impress the masses with a stunning blog. I'm here to help my friends, family and YOU with honest but quirky life issues.
So ask away, it's free and always fun, even when you are at your worst or down as far as YOU think you can go... lets pick things up and make life just a head better...one hair at a time.
I look forward to meeting you,
Dana
I had originally started this little blog to be able to air MY thoughts and complain to the world of what I thought. Stress about my children and make satirical comments about my husband but then a friend had asked me to write an advice column.
Are you kidding me I asked. Me?! She explained that I have always had the right, honest answers. Another friend said I should do a blog on living an herbal life. That is truly what I do. Not some vegan/vegetarian lifestyle mind you but holistically. My children don't need antibiotics when sick and I have a natural remedy for just about anything.
My 3rd friend said that I have the best ideas for cleaning. Maybe so... Im not sure on that one but I can help you make you and your home cleaner and smell better.
So, If you have come to this page expecting sponsors, pretty pages and an excess of froo froo that's not happening. I'm not here to make a million dollars nor am I hear to impress the masses with a stunning blog. I'm here to help my friends, family and YOU with honest but quirky life issues.
So ask away, it's free and always fun, even when you are at your worst or down as far as YOU think you can go... lets pick things up and make life just a head better...one hair at a time.
I look forward to meeting you,
Dana
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