Sunday, March 30, 2014

How I See Myself: Made for the 60s and early 70s

Here's how I see myself.

I'm singing this:


Or this:


And for sure this:


And then dancing to this:


And dancing to this, of course:


And dancing to this, which technically came out in the 70s but has such a retro flair. And my dad listened to it a lot in our attic at 6018 Outlook in Mission, Kansas and I grew to LOVE it:


Wearing something like this only with a cut more flattering to my large chest and in turquoise:

Saturday, March 29, 2014

Runs/Walks in Kansas City: Broadway Bridge Run September 7, 2014



What: Broadway Bridge Run

When: Saturday, September 7, 2014 at 7:00 a.m.

Where: City Market (3rd and Main)

Check the link (above after WHAT) for more info!



P.S. I get my info from the fabulous KC Running Company website.


On a personal note, here's my walking story for National Walking Day a couple of years ago with an update.


When you're all done, you'll be hungry! Grab a copy of my Tater Tot Casserole Cookbook and whip up a batch of happiness for dinner!

Thursday, March 27, 2014

My Daughter's Nail Designs Can Become a Reality!

My daughter is 9. She loves fashion. She loves art. She creates dresses from paper and creates them ON paper. Lately she fell in love with Jamberry Nail Wraps just like I did and decided to create some of her own. Check them out! The great part about Jamberry is that you can create your own nail design and make it a reality! My daughter could wear any of these designs on her nails, usually within a week!

Check it out through my Jamberry site! I also have a half sheet that I traded for from my friend Suzanne of some cute, pink, cable-knit yarn she made into a nail design!


Runs/Walks in Kansas City: Mother's Day 5K May 11, 2014


Don't freak out on me here, but I am getting excited about exercising. I used to love to walk all the time as a stress reliever and to stay in shape. I want to share my excitement with you dear readers all over the world. Specifically, though, in Kansas City. I'll be posting upcoming walk/runs for 2014 as I find them. This does not mean I'll be participating in all of them, so don't show up expecting me to sign autographs or anything. I MIGHT or MIGHT NOT be there, depending on household funds at the time (it costs to enter a race), Mr. Kerrie's travel situation, my sanity level, etc. Enjoy the race info, and go out and find some in your town!


Check out the Mother's Day 5K Run/Walk for Women in Kansas City

Where? Corporate Woods

When? May 11, 2014 at 8 a.m.

Why? Because exercise is good for you and why not treat yourself to the Mother's Day gift of taking care of yourself?

Here's race day info and everything you need to know about this race


On a personal note, here's my walking story for National Walking Day a couple of years ago with an update.


When you're all done, you'll be hungry! Grab a copy of my Tater Tot Casserole Cookbook and whip up a batch of happiness for dinner!

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Find the Right Realtor - Knowing Your Estate Agents from your Con Artists

The real estate market might not have been in the best of states recently, but a resurgence is almost certainly on the horizon so the time if rife to either move up the property ladder or mount the first rung. If you are looking to buy or sell a home you have two options; go it alone or hire an estate agent. Of course there is no right or wrong way, but the housing market is in a complicated, conflicted place at the moment so hiring an estate agent to 'do the dirty work' is probably the most logical option. You should also take into account the fact that estate agents will already have a network of potential buyers on their books and will have more insight into what properties are worth and what people are willing to spend.

Estate agents are not miracle workers though and even the best of them can struggle in a tough market. Therefore it's of paramount importance that you choose the right realtor for you. Ultimately it should be an estate agent who knows what they're talking about, has a successful track record and has your best interests at heart. Consider the following points.

Your schedule

It doesn't matter if you're buying or selling, it will take a lot of time and effort to close a deal on a property. Especially if it's your first time at this particular dance, you might believe it takes little more effort than placing an advert on a website and waiting for the offers to pour in, but this is not the case. There are numerous platforms from which to promote your property, but they will cost money.

A good estate agent should cover all of these costs in their commission rate though and will not only know all of the various avenues through which to push your property, but have at least 8 hours a day in which to push it. A good estate agent should have now more than a few clients at any one time, and should be available to answer phone calls and emails 24/7. They should also be able to cater to your schedule, if they expect you to cater to their schedule; they are not very good at their job.

Negotiation

Estate agents earn their keep through commission and their final fee will vary dramatically depending on your country of residence. Realtors can expect between 1% and 3% of the final fee in the UK, whereas in the U.S, 6% or 7% is more common. Either way, the final price will more than likely be higher if you hire an estate agent, so in most cases, the fee is negated to a certain extent.

Taking a U.S perspective, if you want $200,000 from your home sale, you will want the realtor to list it at around $215,000. The fees charged will vary wildly from agent to agent and some might even charge a flat fee for completing a transaction. There might also be dreaded 'hidden fees' to consider, so do your research and make sure you're not being swindled! Ultimately, just don't be afraid to negotiate with your realtor and make sure that you leave yourself a fair amount of wiggle room. And ALWAYS read the fine print!

Use their knowledge to your advantage

Ultimately, though they might try to dress it up, estate agents are salesmen. Their job is to represent you and sell your home, but they are licensed professionals too. They will have vast reserves of knowledge at their disposal on everything from real estate law, market trends and contract ethics, knowledge they should be putting into effective use when selling your property to prospective buyers. Don't be afraid to ask your potential estate agents questions and quiz them on their methods, as the more you understand about their job, the more you can do to help them do it. Because two heads are better than one and even though you might have a busy life to live, you should be working with your agent to sell your property.

Check their references

When you're embarking on something as serious as selling your home, you should do as much homework as possible. When vetting potential estate agents, don't be afraid to ask questions concerning their track record, or questions that might make you seem uninformed. You can also use online sites such as Agent Harvest to check up on your agent, making sure they are who they say they are and that there are no legal complaints against them. You should also ask them for references from clients they have working with in the past. If they refuse to give you any references, chances are there is a reason!

Don't be afraid to change agents

Finally, before you sign anything, make sure that you are not locked into the agent as even if things look fantastic from the get-go, a few months down the line when things are not going well, you might want to consider a different perspective.

Linda Short has been through numerous estate agents in her time as a property investor. Some of them she wouldn't trust as far as she could throw, but the good ones really are good!

Wordless Wednesday: Valentine's Night



Tuesday, March 25, 2014

A Trip to Lawrence, Kansas with 6 Kids

Thursday of Spring Break we met up with Tom and Lucy, fellow homeschoolers, since they moved to Lawrence (Lucy's mom is in Pharmacy School at KU!). We grabbed our Plus One, Julia, and headed out for the 30-minute journey to Lawrence.

Cool school park at Highland and Yale where we finished off our Long John Silver's and Burrito King

I'm  prepping my kids to go to KU if they choose to go to college. It's close!

Sam says the snakes and tigers are his brothers. (at the Natural History Museum)

How did Joel get that owl to perch on his shoulder?

Two hours later ... we are all beat.

Time for some DQ, a Lawrence trip tradition. We usually make this trip with my mom, Tutu, but we'll go again soon.

Then we hit the nature center park to finish our ice cream. It was a gorgeous, windy day filled with play.

Saturday, March 22, 2014

Starting Yet Another Blog: Kerrie the Kitchen Queen

Mom and Aron, don't laugh. I've spent quite a bit of time in the ole kitchen since becoming a stay-at-home mom almost 13 years ago and thought it was time to start sharing some of my fun recipes and other stuff with those seeking that type of crazy knowledge. Come on over to Kerrie the Kitchen Queen.

Look at this lemon poke cake. YUMMY.

Starting a blog from scratch and trying to remember all the little steps I need to take to hopefully make it rock is a hard process.

Finally got in touch with my domestic side at age 42 3/4.


Friday, March 21, 2014

Jamberry Nail Wraps: Black and White Damask

Look, I don't know how YOU say it, but I say it DAM-usk, like it's a cuss word. You might say it DA-mask. Either way, it's vintage and it rocks. This is one of the free designs I picked out for having a $400 party. If you have a party like that you get a lot of free stuff. Then you can share half sheets with your pals like I did. Anyway, enjoy these nails, friends. Here's how to order your own!

My hand on Mr. Kerrie's muscley chest


Thursday, March 20, 2014

Foods Full of Calcium That Are Easy to Eat


According to the experts, three servings of calcium each day can help to fight off osteoporosis, and can even aid in weight loss. While calcium is beneficial in any form, some studies suggest that dairy products high in calcium are the most efficient at aiding the body in weight loss. Keep that in mind the next time you fear mixing Greek yogurt sauce into your recipes will push your waistline past its limit.


Big Pay-Off Diet Changes
Many people fear that dairy products are high in fat and fail to reap the benefits of a diet full of calcium. Fortunately, dairy products come in low-fat and fat-free forms, making it easy for everyone to enjoy a healthy diet without worry.

Small changes to the diet can reap big rewards for individuals of any age. At times, all it takes it a commitment to change to enjoy big payoffs for the effort. Some of the most beneficial diet changes are:
  1. Loading up on veggies and fruits by eating 2.5 cups of veggies and two cups of fruit each day.
  2. Choose the right fats by switching from whole milk to skim milk, or cooking with olive oil rather than butter.
  3. Drink more water, and shoot for consuming about six to eight glasses each day.
  4. Increase your fiber consumption to increase energy, reduce belly fat, and lower risks of disease. 
  5. Control your portions and avoid second helpings, eating only until you are full rather than uncomfortable.


These five easy steps can completely change your world, particularly if you are eating the correct calcium rich foods during the process.

Fill Your Diet With Calcium
Adding more dairy products to your diet is easy when done in the right ways. Stick with simple snacks like cottage cheese and fruit, or cucumber yogurt sauce for the more sophisticated palette. No matter how you do it, keep these calcium-rich foods in the back of your mind as you switch your diet.


  • Dark leafy greens (kale, turnips, spinach)

  • Fortified orange juice

  • Cheese

  • Milk

  • Yogurt 

  • Soybeans 

  • Fortified soymilk 

  • Sardines 

  • Fortified cereals 

  • Enriched waffles, grains, and breads


  • Although calcium supplements are available at most drug stores, dieticians recommend getting your daily calcium intake through foods. The body absorbs this form of calcium better, and is better able to utilize it to strengthen the bones.

    Vitamins You Need
    On the list of the top six vitamins humans need to be healthy, calcium is at the top. Increase your calcium intake as you age, and speak with your doctor about the recommended value for your age. It’s important to eat three meals a day, and enjoy several small snacks that keep the body energized and moving. Choose the right foods for your snacks and meals, and you’ll feel better all the time.

    Plan for a Big Day
    Well-balanced meals are particularly important on days that are full, but you can make every day a big day if you change your family’s eating habits now. Learn the benefits of foods that are high in vitamins and minerals, and empty your home of sugary, high-fat foods that aren’t good for your mind or your body.

    Wednesday, March 19, 2014

    Spend Less Going Out

    Everyone carries their own notions about what makes up a good time.  For some, trips to movies are go-to entertainment picks, while others prefer time spent at the pub.  Fine-dining is cause for celebration among some foodies, who enjoy trying new dishes and restaurants.  And music events are worthy destinations for fans of all ages.
    No matter where your interests lie, getting out to enjoy your past times is an important part of building relationships and staying close with your mate.  Whether you are an easy to please pub patron, needing littler more than a pint and a bite; or a seasoned socialite seeking high-brow cultural exposure, entertainment comes with a price.
    Staying home is always an option, since spending slows when you are house bound, but it's not worth getting stir crazy over. There are times when koala payday loans can be useful. However, the fact is; there are discounted entertainment options available at all spending levels, so there is no need to stop getting out for fun nights.

    Moonlight Cityscapes

    Ultra low-budget entertainment is free, so any opportunities for cost-free recreation should be embraced full-on.  In some cities, organized tours take tourists through featured attractions, highlighting architecture and other noted draws in town.  Just because you are a resident, doesn't mean enjoying your own cityscape is off limits.
    Outside paid versions, assembling your own tour is a rewarding approach, especially at night when your city's prominent attractions are sensationally illuminated.  A little research ahead of time points up features that may not be on your radar, opening your to your own locale. Depending on your location, water views are particularly engaging, offering reflections and other interesting subject matter for amateur photographers. And in outlying areas, fall colors provide daytime viewing opportunities for locals tuned-in to their surroundings.  Walking leaves you vulnerable, so pay mind to safety as you plot your course through the city.

    Museums and Galleries

    Culture abounds in UK, so there is no excuse for not getting out enjoying it.  While your means may not support fine art at home, it is easy to see firsthand at museums and galleries specializing in rotating exhibitions. National resources are there for the citizens to appreciate, so entry fees are reasonable, sometimes free.  Art galleries in Cardiff and other regions attract tourists and aficionados internationally, so enjoying these low-cost leisure times close to home is a privilege not to overlook.
    Noted architecture, churches, government buildings and similar tourist destinations make living in UK fun, because they are right in your backyard. Even small outdoor events capture your interest for little or no cost.

    Dine for Less with Food Offers and Specials

    Keeping seats full of patrons is job one for restaurants and pubs, which count on high volume to stay profitable.  As a result, most establishments are quick to extend offers to bring in more customers.  For diners on budgets, it is great news, especially families with several hungry mouths to feed.  Food tallies add up quickly, so deals and promotions go a long way.
    Information about restaurants is plentiful online, where users routinely leave feedback about food quality, service and prices.  Rather than taking a stab in the dark, hunger money savers check-in online, to see what people are saying about particular establishments, and to take advantage of any Web-based offers.
    Restaurants where kids eat free are particularly appealing to families, who count on the savings to keep everyone fed.  Special email notifications are furnished by some establishments, placing you on the list to receive advertisements and savings offers directly to your inbox. Rewards programs are also growing in popularity, furnishing incentives for frequent diners.  A pub, for instance, might provide a free meal for a patron who buys a certain number at regular price.

    Wordless Wednesday: Snow Heart


    Thursday, March 13, 2014

    Legoland Discovery Center Coupon! Save $3 off Admission



    Explore LEGOLAND Discovery Center Kansas City, the ultimate indoor playground for kids who are the biggest fans of LEGO! LEGOLAND Discovery Center Kansas City is one of Kansas City's best attractions for kids! Reach out and touch the stars in our 4D cinema, build the fastest car in LEGO Racers: Build & Test, zap the bad guys in Kingdom Quest Laser Ride, or have the ultimate LEGO birthday party. Plan your family visit and jump into the biggest box of LEGO bricks!

    We went about a year ago and had the best time ever. Unfortunately, I forgot to bring the camera so we are dying to go back. This coupon is a great one!

    See you there!


    Tuesday, March 11, 2014

    Fashionable Bags for Moms ... Yes, They Are Out There!

    Today I have invited a guest blogger to fill in some space for me about some cool bags that are on the market these days. I personally like this one because it would be big enough to hold my laptop while also being only $39.95. And I am a sucker for basic black ... goes with everything! BUT if you are not loving black, you can mix and match shells depending on what you're wearing or your mood without having to buy an entirely new bag!

    Here's how to grab this bag!

    Here's Jill:

    "Hey moms! You have the best and hardest job in the world, but you also want to stay fashionable.  This is hard to do when you have to lug around all your children’s stuff everywhere you go.  At this point, you’re just looking for a bag that can fit the toys, bottles, diapers, and snacks; you’re not thinking about how it looks.  Your child’s happiness and entertainment is more important than how you look when you leave the house.  Well moms, not anymore.  Miche has the bag for you!  The interchangeable Prima bag is fashionable and the perfect size.  This bag can hold a laptop or tablet plus all of your child’s essentials.  It will carry the toys your child deems necessary to take to the grocery store in addition to everything you need as well. 
       
    With the interchangeable Miche Prima bag, you get the space you need for all of your necessities and you get to be fashionable at the same time!  Get yourself a few different Shells so you can change the bag to match what you’re wearing; the change is quick and easy.  Moms don’t have the time to switch the contents from one purse to another with all the binkies and army guys at the bottom.  That is why Miche bags are perfect.  You don’t have to remove every last item.  Change your bag at the speed of life!  Just take off the Shell and put a new one on.  It saves you time so you have more to spend with your little ones, which we all know is the most important part of being a mom.

    Great fashion doesn’t have to come with a big price tag.  Buying all the essentials to keep your family fed and happy can be pricey so the tendency is to skimp on nice things for yourself in order to be a cost-efficient household.  Miche bags are a great solution as they won’t break the bank.  Buy just the one bag, then accessorize with different Shells and there’s no reason to sacrifice your family’s wants or needs for the cost of looking great. Stay hip and trendy at a very affordable price.


    Miche jewelry is a great way to look put together when you feel like you’re falling apart.  Moms need to feel glamorous too and Miche jewelry is here to help.  Jewelry breaks easily with kids pulling on and playing with it, but the great thing about Miche jewelry is that it is magnetic and will come apart instead of breaking apart.  They’re also so easy to change!  If you actually get a night away from the kids, you may not have time to change your clothes, but with Miche jewelry, you can change your look in a matter of seconds.  Like the Miche bags, you won’t spend a fortune on the jewelry.  All of the pieces are very classy and affordable so go ahead and accessorize at the speed of life!"

    Here's a video explaining the ability of the purse to transform with the addition of shells to the base bag, instead of purchasing a completely new bag outright.


    Looks like you can earn a bag by doing an at-home party, so there is something to think about!

    Tuesday, March 4, 2014

    Honey Dews Baby Expo Ticket #Giveaway #KansasCity April 5, 2014


    Yep, it's that time again! Time for the 2nd annual Honey Dews Baby Expo! Honey Dews is graciously offering a giveaway of 2 tickets to the Expo, valued at $50 total (2 winners will each receive one ticket). Here's info from the sponsor.


    "Join us for the 2nd Annual Honey Dews Baby Expo, Saturday, April 5, 2014 from 10 am to 2 pm at the Deer Creek Golf Club in Overland Park.  

    This year the show welcomes over 52 LOCAL businesses featuring baby products, services and education for new and soon to be expecting families.  

    Tickets are $25 and each guest receives hors d'oeuvres, specialty mocktails (non-alcoholic mommy cocktails), seating for our keynote speaker series and the first 100 guests to arrive receive our swag bag filled with products and special offers from our partners.  


    Follow us on Facebook for all event details and updates! 

    Tickets are on sale now here."


    Here's the giveaway!
    a Rafflecopter giveaway