Democracy, liberty, opportunity, and unyielding hope!

Last night, our country made a momentous decision. I am so proud to be an American, and the fact that I participated (volunteered at the local campaign office, donated a very small amount of money), gives me great pride. Democracy, liberty, opportunity and unyielding hope - I heard these words last night in Barack Obama's speech, and these ideals should be and are what I strive for. I hope that they are what my children strive for now, and in the future.

As the child of rigid thinking staunch Republicans, I face opposition to my progressive views from a majority of my extended family members. My daughter has had the "joy" of discussing - sometimes arguing - politics with her friends. She shares our views, while many of her friends share their parent's views. We as parents teach our children, but the beautiful thing is ...... they can choose their own views! The idea of LIBERTY, to me, means that we are free to form our viewpoints, and along the way if they are identical to our parents then that is ok, BUT IF NOT THEN THAT IS OK TOO! I ask Lauren to be open-minded, and respectful of other's views, but arm herself with the facts. A lot of ugly, untrue propaganda was out there about Barack Obama, and even though it was out there, he won the election! It was all just a bunch of crap!
We have the opportunity to make a difference, and with that comes UNYIELDING HOPE!
Lastly, the reports on MSNBC said that the world looks at us, and marvels....."how do they (America) do it?" DEMOCRACY works again!

Coupons for Sale?

In my neverending quest to try all the tricks of the trade..... I bought coupons today from http://www.thecouponclippers.com./ That is a first for me! I am happily making use of all the tools, and because of this, I only spent $125.00 on groceries last week! There is definitely less stress in my life due to this. Now I should be receiving this order on Monday. I ordered the Attune bar coupons (10 of them), because Lauren loves them, plus the $2.00 off Infusium Shampoo (Jenny woudl like those), 4 of those. Also eatssmart veggie chips and Lawrys marinade. Now I hope these will go on sale........ The total order was about 4.00, and represents savings of about $40.00! Now if they only doubled coupons in my area, but that does not happen here! I've been very savvy lately though, and we are eating VERY well here.

I am totally grateful for many things today--

I've got a lot of intelligence

I AM feeling better, being treated for Hashimoto's Thyroiditis.

My friends are so awesome

Max the wonder Yorkie is looking so well groomed, and beautiful!

Beautiful Family!

We are a beautiful family, don't you agree!

The Mentalist

I have discovered a new show that I love, love. love. Good stories, and Simon Baker is so fun to look at. Truly, truly a beautiful man. Plus it is filmed in my favorite part of the world, California! Just love it!
http://sbnikita.blogspot.com/

The Sun is Shining Through my Window!

Good morning!! Today the sun is shining through my window at work. That's a good reason to feel grateful for being here this early. It's 7:30 am, and I am here early because my lunch will probably be longer than one hour today.

Lots of things to be grateful for today:

The orthodontist bill is almost paid off!

I paid the dermatologist in full!

My son has a job, and is doing good!

I am learning to set some boundaries people, but it is a slow process!

I was the only one not drinking at the party the other night.....and I felt sociable, active, and alive....vs the alternative of being silly, tired, and plain drunk!

I have money in my wallet and I know mostly where it is going!

I bought 8 bags of steam fresh vegetables with coupons for .50 each - they go for $2.49 usually.

Lastly, I am grateful for apples that taste good right now!

That's all for now!

Early Trip to CVS 9/7/08

I was very very organized today. Because I went out early, I was able to get everything that I wanted.
At CVS:
1 Arnicare Pain Lotion with 2.00 off coupon available here- 7.49, with 8.00 ECB's
Next transaction:
2 Soft and Dri
1 chex mix coupon available here
4 Progresso Soups
2 lady Speed Stick
I had coupons for the above, plus 8.00 ECB from the Arnicare sale, and spent $3.42 on the second transaction.
I saved $25.96!
I did receive $4.00 ECB from the deodorant, which I forgot about, and will use on my next shopping trip! Very productive for me, and I am still kind of new at this!

Gratitude with a Capital G

Today I am so grateful for so many things. I thought it might be a good idea to list some of these things in order to stay centered and focused on the beauty in my life.

Elaine, my really good friend who lives in Virgina now, and needs to talk. I hope that I can be of some help to her, and I know that she is having a difficult time.

I got some new friends on Facebook, actually people I know...it's kind of fun!

My little dog Max, who is the best dog in the world!

The Herald article ran in todays paper. Here it is http://www.miamiherald.com/business/story/666018.html

Maria, Lonna, Sima from Louisiana - I spoke to all three today and totally had amazing conversations!

Canker sore toothpaste was on sale for $4.99 a tube. It is normally $7.99 a tube!

I talked politics with my mom, but didn't really get into it with her, because she is dead set against anything Democrat! I have resigned from the debate society just for today!