BLOGMANIA has arrived! One Day Only Give Away at participating blogs!

WELCOME to BLOGMANIA - A One Day Only Blog Hop - and every participating blog is offering a Give Away!  There is a little different twist on this blog hop - each participating blog will have only a few links so you don't become overwhelmed with too many to try to get to.  However, should you feel especially ambitious, there are 123 blogs participating - and you can visit them all - and enter to win at all 123 blogs.

Blackberry Jam Cafe is # 27 of 123

The creators of Blogmania have done all the work for you. No hunting or surfing. Each participating blog will have several links for you to get started. For example - there are 10 links on Blackberry Jam Cafe. Those 10 links will lead you to 10 other sites, each with 10 links, and so on.

Each blog will have a number and each new blog link will have a number. These numbers will allow you to keep track of which blogs you’ve visited and how many are left to visit.

Enter to win one of 2 Give Aways at Blackberry Jam Cafe:

#1  A gift for Mother's Day, or any Lavender Lover, a gorgeous (new) hardcover book by Hans Silvester: Lavender, Fragrance of Provence.  This is a wonderful book about the history of Lavender growing in Provence with so many wonderful pictures of Lavender fields you'll want to book your flight to see it in person!

I've also added a Lavender Leaves Candle from Henri Bendle to make a pretty gift set for you, or someone you care about!

#2  An original 12" x 16" vintage look canvas for a Latte Lover.  The canvas is gallery wrapped, and combines canvas, fabric, and ribbon with a vintage picture of a woman and her Latte in Paris. 

The canvas is ready to hang - and enjoy!

Here's how you enter to win either of the Give Aways from Blackberry Jam Cafe.

1. Become a Follower on Google friends and leave me a comment telling me which Give Away you'd like to win (#1 or #2), or if you are already a follower, leave me a comment telling me you're already following, and which Give Away you'd like to win (#1 or #2).

2. Become a Twitter Follower, and leave me a comment telling me which Give Away you'd like to win (#1 or #2).

3. Tweet about the Give Aways at Blackberry Jam Cafe (including which # you'd like to win), and leave me a comment.

4. Post about the Give Aways at Blackberry Jam Cafe (with a link back here) on your blog, and leave me a link to your post (also telling me which Give Away # you'd like to win).

I will choose a winner for #1, and a winner for #2 (based on the number you leave in your comment).  Give Aways are open to US addresses only, no P.O. Boxes. Please be sure I have your email address in each comment you leave.  Give Aways will end at midnight 4/30/2010 (US Central Time Zone) and winners will be chosen by Random.org on 5/1/2010. Winners will be notified by email and will have 24 hours to confirm. If I don't receive a confirmation, I will need to choose another winner.

After you enter to win here, this is the list of my links for you to get started "Gathering the Loot"!

Blog- 1 – HOST OF BLOGMANIA  Between The Pages - http://betweenthelinesandmore.blogspot.com/

Blog -2 – CO-HOST OF BLOGMANIA  The Black Sheep Dances - http://www.theblacksheepdances.blogspot.com/

Blog-43 - CO-HOST OF BLOGMANIA  Books, Books Everywhere - http://bookywooks.blogspot.com/

Blog-68 Mama Librarian - http://mamalibrarian.blogspot.com/

Blog-92 Groovy's Ruminations - http://groovybell.blogspot.com/

Blog-36 Along the Way - http://a-long-the-way.blogspot.com/

Blog-8 A Mom’s Take - http://amomstake.blogspot.com/

Blog-18 Aubut Family - http://www.aubutfamily.com/

Blog-109 Mommy’s Minutes - http://mommys-minute.blogspot.com/

Blog-118 Designs By Dawn Marie - http://designsbydawnmarie.blogspot.com/

Now go out and find all the good stuff out there waiting for you!

Sneek Peek at BLOGMANIA - one day only Gather the Loot Blogging event!

It's less than 12 hours away!  Are you ready for Blogmania 2010? What is Blogmania you ask... well, simply put it is going to be one of the biggest "Gather the Loot" blogging events! On April 30th, for one day only, over 120 blogs from around the world are coming together to host a huge giveaway day!


Every single blog on the list will be offering a free giveaway to you for stopping by their blog. From one blog to the next, you'll be able to click thru the links and visit all 120+ blogs, enter to win their giveaway, and meet tons of great bloggers in the process. Prizes include: custom made jewelry, collector books, bath and beauty products, crafts, gift cards... and the list goes on.

So what should you do to get ready?

First, if you're not already a follower, follow Blackberry Jam Cafe with Google Friends on the left. This way on April 30th, you'll easily find my blog where I will have a list of participating bloggers to get you started.

Second, tell your friends... they'll want to participate too. Who doesn't want to meet some great people and win free stuff? Send them to Blackberry Jam Cafe and have them follow me so they can jump in on the fun first thing on April 30th.

It’s not time to go yet, but if you want to have the most fun and scoop up as much loot as possible, here are a few Early Bird Reminders to help you do just that.

1. Be at any of the blogs participating in the Blogmania Event as early as possible on April 30th.

2. At Blackberry Jam Cafe, at 12:01 am (Central US time zone) on April 30, 2010, I will list a few of the participating blogs so you can get started. Keep going from blog to blog. Each blog may have different entry requirements, so read them closely.

3. Different time zones may also affect your entries, so try to start prowling the blogs early.

4. Each blog has an entry number and will direct you to the next blog. Blackberry Jam Cafe is #27 on the list, so you can hit here early and move on through all 100 plus blogs.

5. Be sure to watch your email following the one day giveaway, as some blogs may require you to return with a mailing address in a limited amount of time so they can send you your prize (if you win).

Blackberry Jam Cafe is offering 2 fun prizes...so be here early to sign up!

So much temptation - and no compromise in site. The new Pottery Barn catalogue was in the mail today!

I do seem to have a weakness for most things Pottery Barn, but this may be the ultimate summer retreat. I spent all afternoon picturing myself spending the summer lounging away the days in this beautiful outdoor Daybed. This may be better than a vacation. I could take a stack of books, and a pitcher of lemonade - read a little, nap a little - ahhh, simply Heaven!

OK - the Daybed is probably not realistic. I'd settle for this double chaise lounge. It's even got a little pull out tray for a cold drink. Not as fancy, but I could make it work.

Coming down to earth, these Adirondack chairs are probably more within my budget! Maybe? Maybe not.

Well, at least I have 2 trees. Seems like if you've got 2 trees and a tight budget, surely you could make a hammock work. Not the picture perfect summer retreat I was dreaming of, but it could be relaxing. I really don't need that guitar either!

I told my husband I would compromise. I'd forget about the somewhat expensive outdoor daybed. I'd keep the double chaise on my wish list for next year. I'd even pass on the cute Adirondack chairs. I'd settle for a new hammock with some pretty outdoor pillows. On one condition - that he'd at least bring me a pitcher of lemonade once in a while.

His response - he went out to his truck and brought in a folding NASCAR canvas chair someone had given him at Texas Motor Speedway last week.

I am so not amused. 

The Flowers are Blooming and the Garden is Growing - Could it be spring?

All I could think about for the past couple of weeks was that old saying we had as kids - "April showers bring May flowers". We have had so much rain lately I thought everything I had planted would be washed away. Even early this morning we had another bad storm, but when the sun finally came out this

afternoon, everything was in bloom.

I have to admit, gardening is not really a strong point for me. I go to one of the outdoor stores like everyone else, pick up a few flats of plants - and then hope for the best. Some years are marginally successful - some years are complete disasters.

I did find this cute little planter this year I'm having fun with. I brought it home and gave it a new look with  a quick coat of blue and red paint (just wasn't crazy about the yellow that was on it).

It's still early enough in the season my Garden Angel is still hopeful! I haven't killed anything yet.

The mint in my little herb garden is going strong, which is really important - Kentucky Derby Day and Mint Juleps are right around the corner!

I was really surprised to see the tomato plants actually have tomatoes on them. I'm embarrassed to admit last year we had less than a dozen - tomatoes, not tomato plants. 2009 was a seriously bad

 produce year around here!

Now this is my pride and joy! The first peach on the spindly, scraggly little peach tree I planted last year. I'm not planning the peach pie quite yet, but I'm hopeful - maybe one day!

I guess that's me - the ever hopeful gardner.

Welcome Friday Followers! Let's celebrate each other!

Welcome to the April 23 Friday Follow celebration hosted by One 2 Try, Hearts make Families, and Midday Escapades! We invite you to join us every Friday to get more blog followers and to follow other interesting blogs. It is all about sharing and having fun.

Here's how YOU can join the Friday Follow celebration:

--Link up your blog name and URL using the MckLinky below. Only need to add on one blog to be seen on all the blog hops.

--Grab the Friday Follow button and include on your Friday Follow blog post.

--Follow the Friday Follow hostesses listed in the first 3 slots.

--Follow as many other blogs on the linky as you'd like.

--Take a moment to comment on the blogs telling them you're from Friday Follow.

--Follow back when you get a new follower through Friday Follow.

This list is new each week. The links do not carry over. Please link up each week for new participants to find your blogs. The list is only open to add your blog links on Fridays. It will be visible all week to visit the blogs listed.

Don't forget to scroll down and enter the

Bea's Gift Basket Mother's Day Give Away.

Bea's Gift Basket Give Away for Mother's Day

Can you believe it - Mother's Day is just around the corner! May 9, 2010, to be exact. Not much time, so take a few minutes and jump over to Bea's Gift Baskets and enjoy the wide assortment of gift baskets Bea's has created just for Mom! The Mother's Day Selection from Bea's Gift Baskets has such a variety of styles, favorites and prices, you'll be sure to find the perfect gift! 

Remember to get your order placed this week to be sure it will arrive in time for Mother's Day. For any occasion, Bea's Gift Baskets can help you find the gift they'll love. Remember, you get free ground shipping on any gift priced over $50.00 in the U.S. The service is great, the quality is amazing, and the love that goes in each basket will bring you back for all your gift giving needs.

Once again, Bea's is also generously offering an amazing Give Away to followers of

Blackberry Jam Cafe:

Don't miss this one - it has a special place in my heart!

My Mom Is First Class, Gift Basket - by Susan

 Bea's has put together another delightful way to tell your Mom (or any special woman in your life) just how much she is loved with this fabulous My Mom Is First Class Gift Basket. And, she has so kindly named this one after me. What a wonderful tribute!

This gift comes in a beautiful wicker basket packed full of wonderful goodies for Mom!

This Gift Includes:

Ghirardelli Double Chocolate Café 2 oz.

Themed Snack Mix 6 oz.

Ghirardelli Intense Dark Chocolate Delight 3.5oz.

Mini Assorted Almonds 1.5 oz

Lemon Shortbread Cookies with Almonds .82 oz.

Gold Fingers 5 oz.

Rocky Mountain Caramel Popcorn 4.5 oz.

Beautiful Handled Basket (11" X 12" X 7.5")

Hand Written Gift Message attached directly on gift

Bea's Gift Baskets is providing to one very lucky reader - one My Mom Is First Class, Gift Basket - by Susan

Here's how you can enter to win!

You can do any, or all, of the following for one entry each. Please leave a separate comment for each entry. PLEASE be sure I have your email address in your public profile, or in your comment.

- Follow me with Google Friends, and leave me a comment to let me know. If you are already a follower, just leave a comment telling me you are a follower.

- Follow me on Twitter. Current followers are eligible too, just leave a comment saying you are a Twitter follower.

- Tweet about this giveaway and leave a link to your tweet (one time per day).

- Friend Bea Alexander on Facebook, and leave me a comment.

- FOR 5 EXTRA ENTRIES - Write a blog post about this giveaway, with a link to my blog. Come back and leave the link to your blog post. Post FIVE separate comments that you've blogged about this.

- FOR 10 EXTRA ENTRIES - Make any purchase from Bea's Gift Baskets. Post TEN separate comments about your purchase. (will be verified).

Giveaway ends on April 30th at midnight (Central time). Open to US addresses only. No PO Boxes. Winner will be chosen by Random.org and contacted by email. Please respond in 24 hours or I will need to choose a new winner. To be fair to everyone, comments not meeting requirements will be deleted.
 
Once again, a big Thank You to Bea's Gift Baskets for providing the giveaway product.

Disclosure: No monetary compensation was offered or accepted for this post. The opinions above are my own. Others experience may vary.

Mayo Clinic Diet Book and Journal - Review and Give Away

Like some of you, over the years I've tried a number of diets. I've had moderate success with some. And a lot of frustration with some. Not long ago I even decided to just give up, and try to accept that I would always be fighting a losing battle (no pun intended). That idea lasted about a week - I really did not want to just give up. But I also needed to find something more than a fad diet, or a plan that required me to buy pre-packaged foods.

That was about the time I came across this book - The Mayo Clinic Diet. What first made me open this book is, well, the obvious. It's the Mayo Clinic. And the subtitle is, Eat Well. Enjoy Life. Lose Weight. Put those things together and it definitely had my interest.

When I read the introduction, written by Donald Hensrud, MD, Medical Editor-in-Chief, I became convinced this was exactly the approach I had been looking for. It's not a fad. It's based on clinically tested techniques. It's a program designed to help you make simple, healthy changes - which will result in a weight loss you can maintain.

The Mayo Clinic Diet consists of two parts: Lose It and Live It. The Lose It part is designed to jump start your weight loss and to help you lose 6 to 10 pounds in 2 weeks.

The Live It part transitions you into healthy and active living while still losing 1 to 2 pounds a week until you reach your goal - and then help you maintain that weight loss for the rest of your life.

When you first open this book, one of the things you'll appreciate is it's to the point - no nonsense - just simple solid ideas to get you started. One of the first things you're asked to consider is what motivates you - why do you want to lose weight now? In my case, it was because I was frustrated with diets that did not work for me. For others it may be an upcoming event. Whatever the reason, this book tells you - before you get started - The most critical element of weight loss is your own personal drive to succeed.

Chapter 1 provides 8 questions you will need to answer which will determine how ready you are to start this program. After you circle your answers, you'll find the key at the bottom of the next page which will help you decide if the time is right for you.

Chapter 2 jumps right into the program. For the first 2 weeks all you have to do to lose weight is:

Add 5 Habits
Break 5 Habits
Adopt 5 Bonus habits

It's not as hard as it sounds, and when you start to see results, it's very encouraging. At least it was for me.
Every page has a section that says, "Yes, I can" to help you stay motivated and embrace the changes you're making.

In fact, every page of this book is bright, colorful, motivating, and simple to follow. By the time I got to Part 2 Live It, I had lost 7 pounds, was feeling less stressed, and I was determined to keep going - I want to lose more - and I'm confident I will!

I really enjoyed the visual effects of this section. There are color photos making comparisons between a portion of a food you would normally order, or prepare - and what you should be eating instead. Very effective. Nearly every page has simple basic things for real life eating -  like Helpful Hints to deconstruct the pizza, or sandwich, so you can understand the hidden fats, and servings sizes that may be triple what you should need. In the past, I was sabotaging my weight loss because I did not have accurate information about portion control. I have the information I need to be successful now.

This is a very interactive book - there are quizzes on nearly every page through Chapter 8; tools to help you find your healthy weight, and BMI, and tips to make your weight loss realistic and enjoyable. For those of us who need to record our progress, there is also a companion book - The Mayo Clinic Journal. I jumped into this 100% - it keeps me accountable, and if I get off track, it helps me determine where I need to make adjustments.

I love this book so much, I bought a copy of both the Mayo Clinic Diet, and The Mayo Clinic Diet Journal for my daughter - and one set to offer as a Give Away.

This is the first time in several years I feel like I am in control of my health - and the bonus is - I'm losing weight. I'd like you to have the same great feeling.

So here are 5 ever so easy ways to enter to win the Mayo Clinic Diet Book and Mayo Clinic Diet Journal.

#1  Become a new follower of Blackberry Jam Cafe through Google Friends, and leave me a comment. Or, if you are already a follower, leave me a comment telling me.

#2  Do a post on your blog or site about the Mayo Clinic Diet Book, linking back to this post. Then leave me a comment.

#3  Follow me on Twitter, and leave me a comment.

#4  Tweet this Give Away (one per day), then leave me a link to the tweet.

#5  Grab my button for your site, and tell me about it.

The Give Away will begin today, 4/20/2010, and end at midnight (Central time) on 4/28/2010. US entries only, please. No P.O. boxes.

The winning number will be chosen by Random.org and the winner will be emailed on 4/29/2010.  PLEASE be sure I have your email address. The winner will have 24 hours to respond, or I will need to pick another winner.

Disclosure: I received a gratis copy of this book for review, however, I purchased the copy of the Book and Journal for the Give Away.

I'm a winner! No seriously, I am!

I'm doing a Happy Dance today! I won a $25.00 Amazon Gift Card from one of the participants in the Ultimate Blog Party.  Wendy from Faith's Firm Foundation  generously donated this prize as part of the Ultimate Blog Party. Thank you, Wendy - I appreciate you.

This is a big deal to me - I never win anything!  I know a lot of people say the same thing, but seriously - I never win anything!  OK, I get it - you don't want to hear me whine.  Just know this - I'm going to be spending some time on Amazon today, and I will be enjoying every minute of it.  There's just something about FREE - it's one notch above couponing - 2 jumps ahead of wholesale - and way better than paying retail!

One of the deepest, darkest secrets about me is that I'm one of those people you absolutely hate if you're part of a business doing a Home Show, or giving away samples in the mall.  I carry a bag with me, and if it's free - it's going in the bag. And it's going home with me. I don't even care if I need it, or if I can use it - it's free.

When I see a table set up in an exhibit hall, or at the mall, that's overflowing with give aways and gadgets, I get kind of a glazed look in my eye. They're calling me - all of the little trinkets, key chains, letter openers, rulers, pens, bottle openers and sticky notes imprinted with the names of dentists, roofers, plumbers and attorneys on them. Who could resist? Not me.

I have a a drawer in my desk that's my "secret stash" drawer. I have enough pens to last my family for the next 20 years or so. I have enough plastic letter openers to supply a medium size company. I have enough sticky note pads to pave the highway from here to Dallas. And they were all FREE!!!!!!

I haven't yet decided if my obsession is free, or office supplies. It could be either, I guess. They say the first step is admitting you have a problem. I'm not there yet - I'm keeping my stash in my stash drawer. And I'm keeping my freebie bag with me at all times. You never know when you'll come across a table full of free trinkets!

Ultimate Blog Party - After Party and Prize winner!

After a full week of blog hopping, discovering new sites, and meeting new friends, the Ultimate Blog Party 2010 has come to an end.  I also offered a blog party prize and today

I used Random.org to pick a winner.  Here is the result:

True Random Number Generator Min: 1  Max:  67   Result: 29  Powered by RANDOM.ORG

elliej was emailed - and has confirmed.

Thank you to all of you who entered, and are now following - I appreciate you, and I'm looking forward to getting to know you!

I visited so many new sites, met so many new friends, and learned about so many new topics it was all a bit overwhelming!  In the true After Party tradition, here are just a few sites I enjoyed:

The Country Chic Cottage - Stop over and see Angie. She's crafty, she's funny - and she's got some great give aways!

Raising Z  - Her header says "Finding something to giggle about everyday".  I need a giggle everyday so I'll be stopping by!

Lemon Drop Pie - Ginnie Marie is serving up a bit of sweet, with a bit of sour. She's smiling through the tough times, and I'm guessing she's a woman with a big heart.

Hope you all enjoyed the week as much as I did.  Now I am anxiously waiting to see if I've won any of the great prizes offered from The Ultimate Blog Party!

Friday Follow and Ultimate Blog Party - Busy, busy week!

This has been the best week for me as far as finding interesting new blogs! I've have really enjoyed the once-a-year Ultimate Blog Party, and of course, our weekly Friday Follow!  Our Friday Follow Hostesses are some of the most wonderful ladies who are always available with words of wisdom (or help!) in our blogging world. And the Ultimate Blog Party has given me the opportunity to find some new blogs with completely different topics. It's been a very fun week!

You can still enter to win the Blackberry Jam Cafe Ultimate Blog Party Prize until midnight (Central time) tonight, so scroll down for details before you hop off for more Friday Follow fun!

Welcome to the April 16 Friday Follow celebration hosted by One 2 Try, Hearts Make Families and Midday Escapades! Our hostesses invite you to join us every Friday to get more blog followers and to follow other interesting blogs. It is all about sharing and having fun.


Here's how YOU can join the Friday Follow celebration:

--Jump over to one of our Hostesses sites (links above). Link up your blog name and URL using the MckLinky below. Only need to add on one blog to be seen on all the blog hops.

--Grab the Friday Follow button and include on your Friday Follow blog post.

--Follow the Friday Follow hostesses listed in the first 3 slots.

--Follow as many other blogs on the linky as you'd like.

--Take a moment to comment on the blogs telling them you're from Friday Follow.

--Follow back when you get a new follower through Friday Follow.

This list is new each week. The links do not carry over. Please link up each week for new participants to find your blogs. The list is only open to add your blog links on Fridays. It will be visible all week to visit the blogs listed.

The Party at Blackberry Jam Cafe! Ultimate Blog Party 2010 - Showcase your blog and win big!

I am pleased to be participating, for the first time, in The Ultimate Blog Party! This party lasts all week long, and you can join at any time. Hosted by 5 Minutes for Moms  The Ultimate Blog Party  is a great way to showcase your blog - and - win some really great prizes.
The Ultimate Blog Party is all about meeting new people and getting your blog noticed.

So have FUN while you showcase your blog and your style. Add pictures, music, video, a slide show, or even a voice post, decorate, include recipes, make your guests laugh — whatever you want.
 It is your party!

Are you ready to join in on the fun?

Put this Invitation Button on your sidebar and write a post inviting all your friends.

Host a party at your place. Scroll down for

The Party at Blackberry Jam Cafe ($125.00 value):

The Ultimate Blog Party 2010 will run for one week, from Friday, April 9, 2010 to Friday, April 16, 2010, with some awesome prizes! The prizes winners will be announced by the latest Friday, April 23rd.
The Ultimate Blog Party 2010 Prize Page will generate tons traffic and attention. Last year’s Ultimate Blog Party 2009 Prize Page had about 10,000 page views.

All prizes will be listed on the Ultimate Blog Party 2010 Prize Page. My choices to win would be:

US #87 - Amazon Gift Card
US #88 - Amazon Gift Card
US #73 - Amazon Gift Card
US #52 - Amazon Gift Card

All you need to do to be eligible for the prizes is comment on the party post at 5 Minutes for Moms and attend some parties.

The Party at Blackberry Jam Cafe
$125.00 value

While it's not necessary to give a gift on your blog to participate in The Ultimate Blog Party, I've decided I'd like to thank all of you who have so generously supported me by offering a very simple way to participate in The Party at Blackberry Jam Cafe.

1. Follow me through Google Friends, and leave me a comment telling me you are now following Blackberry Jam Cafe, or if you are already a follower, leave a comment telling me.

2. Follow me on Twitter, and leave me a comment telling me you are following.

This will keep the entries limited to my current followers and those who have visited from The Ultimate Blog Party. This approach should greatly increase your odds to win. Gift open to U.S. residents only and no P.O. Boxes (sorry - it's a shipping issue).

The Prize will be a custom portrait, from your photo, on a 12" x 12" canvas. $125.00 value. Click on this link to see some examples of  PORTRAITS  to get an idea of how your photo can be turned into a work of art, specifically for you.

Entries will end at midnight (Central time) 4/16/2010. The winner will be chosen by Random.org, from verified entries, on April 17, 2010. The winner will have 24 hours to confirm, or I will choose another winner (be sure I have your email address). The winner will be asked to email me a clear, good quality photo, of the subject of your portrait. After I receive your photo, it will be approximately 2 weeks
 for your completed canvas to be mailed to you. Very simple.

It's a Happy Friday Follow! Find all those great blogs you've been looking for.

I am pleased to be participating in another week of Friday Follow, hosted by One 2 Try, Midday Escapades, and Hearts Make Families. Scroll down and enter your blog on the McLinky.

You are invited to join our Hostesses every Friday, not only to get more blog followers, but to find and follow other interesting blogs. It is all about sharing and having fun.

Check out our Friday Follow Sponsor!




Buttons and Blogs is your source for a blogger or word press makeover! Whether you need a button or a complete redesign, Buttons and Blogs will give you a one of a kind design with you in mind. Business logos are also available.

Here's how YOU can join the Friday Follow celebration:

--Link up your blog name and URL using the MckLinky below. Only need to add your entry on one blog to be seen on all the blog hops.

--Grab the Friday Follow button and include it on your Friday Follow blog post.

--Follow the Friday Follow hostesses listed in the first 3 slots.

--Follow as many other blogs on the linky as you'd like.

--Take a moment to comment on the blogs telling them you're from Friday Follow.

--Follow back when you get a new follower through Friday Follow.

This list is new each week. The links do not carry over. Please link up each week for new participants to find your blogs. The list is only open to add your blog links on Fridays. It will be visible all week to visit the blogs listed.

Have fun with this! I've found some awesome new blogs on Friday Follow!

Karma kick in the backside. Random Acts of Kindness. Pay it Forward.

Lately I've been thinking more about Karma, Random Acts of Kindness, and Paying it Forward. Maybe I'm getting a Karma kick in the backside, but everywhere I go the same theme is jumping out at me. Books, movies, bloggers, strangers, stray dogs. All have the same basic idea - a little kindness can change someone's life.

I've also been the grateful recipient of kindness and generosity lately. I haven't mentioned it before, but my husband had a serious accident in December 2009. It has changed his life, and the way we live our lives. I started this blog shortly after - not in a conscious effort to reach out, but I think maybe as a way to have a distraction for everything going on.

But something totally different has evolved. Every day I am overwhelmed by all of the genuinely kind, thoughtful, funny, and sweet comments I receive. I became very comfortable here in a short period of time, and I sincerely appreciate all of the new friends I've made. More than any of you probably realize, you've made a difference in my life.

So in that same train of thought, I've decided I'm going to make a commitment to do at least one anonymous, random act of kindness every day. I am going to make it a regular part of my day. If I can bring a little something to someone else, even if it's just a smile, or making the day a little easier for someone, that's what I'd like to do. Because that's what all of you have done for me.  You've inspired me to share some kindness - everyday.

I haven't worked out exactly how I'm going to approach this, but in addition to doing something for someone in person, I'm also going to be dropping in on some of you and trying to make your day a bit brighter!  I guess that eliminates the anonymous part, but at least you'll know someone is thinking kindly of you that day!
So just know this - if you're reading this, you're one of the people I'm grateful for, and I appreciate you. Thank you.

I'm seeing red!

I was wandering around my house yesterday trying to decide where to start "Spring Cleaning". I also wanted to rearrange, maybe change up some things and freshen up the basic look around here. Something was just nagging at me that did not feel right.

What I quickly realized is I have more red in this house than I ever remember buying, or bringing in here! When did this happen? I don't even think I like red for decorating purposes. I always felt I was more of a soft blue, thoughtful kind of person. Or maybe a fresh, vibrant green person.

Apparently, I'm an angry, kind of hostile person!

At first, I noticed the red flower arrangement. Not so bad. There's not much to hate about a red flower, I guess.  But then as I looked around more, I saw a red candle.  OK, it's small, and kind of hidden on a shelf. Why hadn't I noticed it before now? When exactly did I buy that thing? And why did I think I liked it? It's really nothing special.

As I started focusing more on individual red things, I started to notice how they were everywhere. Why did I think I'd love that red tile?

And what was I thinking when I just had to have that red rug?

What's up with those red balls over there? Why did I ever think those were cool?

 

Where was my family when I brought those dried red chili peppers home? Why didn't someone stop me?????

About the only things I think I can still enjoy around here are the red Christmas plates. But then I only look at them for about 2 weeks out of the year.

Maybe I'm having an identity crisis. Maybe I really am a closet hostile red person disguised as a friendly bluish-green personality. Oh my - where is my Pottery Barn catalogue - I need help.

She lures you away! Killdeer, Killdee, Kill-Dee, broken wing lures you in Texas.

I have to tell you up front - I'm not a bird watcher. I don't know much about the habits or survival techniques of birds, and I would have a hard time even identifying most birds. But there is one bird I always look forward to seeing. Every year, usually in February, we start to see the killdeer bird again in Texas. You usually see an adult killdeer along a gravel road or driveway, or even along a paved area when they're preparing their nest.

This killdeer made her nest along side a drive to our barn. She is pretty much out in the open, in the cold and wind. I took this picture about 2 weeks ago when we had our last snow. She had layed all four eggs when it was warm, but we had one more cold week after so she, and the male killdeer, were sitting on the nest throughout the storm. Once the nest is prepared and the eggs are laid, either the male or the female is always sitting on the nest. The other one never seems far away. At our house we see the mate in a tree near the nest.

The killdeer makes the nest and eggs nearly invisible by hiding them in the gravel area.

Sometimes you'll look down and think you've found a nest, but if you look again it seems to have disappeared. What I find extremely interesting about this bird is the way they suddenly seem to develop a broken wing when someone, or even a dog or cat approaches the nest. It struggles in front of you, as if it can barely walk, let alone fly. One or both wings drag pitifully on the ground. And it will sometimes turn in circles. But it's just a ruse! Both the mother and father killdeer will pretend to be injured to lure you away from it's nest! What clever parenting skills!

If your instinct to rescue the apparently injured killdeer overcomes you, and you try to catch the bird, it will seem like it almost lets you reach out and pick it up. But somehow, while struggling to keep its balance, the killdeer manages to stay one step ahead of you. As you get closer, the killdeer leads you further and further away from its four eggs, or from the tiny killdeer babies crouching on the ground or half hidden in the gravel.

When the killdeer feels their young are safe from you, its broken wing heals suddenly, and the bird flies back to the nest, calling a loud noise that sounds like "kill-dee".

It seems to take the mother about 2 days to lay all four eggs. One of the parent killdeer will start sitting on their eggs to incubate them as soon as all the eggs have been laid. The killdeer embryos inside the first-laid three eggs do not start developing while the eggs are sitting out in the cold. But when they feel the warmth of the parent killdeer, all four killdeer embryos start developing at the same time. So even though the first-laid egg spends a longer time in the shell than the last-laid, all the killdeer chicks have the same development period. It takes 24 to 28 days of incubating for the chicks to hatch. These four should have about 2 more weeks before we see the babies.

Celebration of Followers with Friday Follow!

Celebration of Followers!

Welcome to the April 2 Friday Follow celebration hosted by One 2 Try, Hearts Make Families and Midday Escapades! We invite you to join us every Friday to get more blog followers and to follow other interesting blogs. It is all about sharing and having fun.

Here's how YOU can join the Friday Follow celebration:

--Link up your blog name and URL using the MckLinky below. Only need to add on one blog to be seen on all the blog hops.

--Grab the Friday Follow button and include on your Friday Follow blog post.

--Follow the Friday Follow hostesses listed in the first 3 slots.

--Follow as many other blogs on the linky as you'd like.

--Take a moment to comment on the blogs telling them you're from Friday Follow.

--Follow back when you get a new follower through Friday Follow.

This list is new each week. The links do not carry over. Please link up each week for new participants to find your blogs. The list is only open to add your blog links on Fridays. It will be visible all week to visit the blogs listed.

Friday Follower of the Week!

Congratulations to Babes Rockin Mami, this week's Friday Follower of the Week! Each week our Hostesses will randomly draw from all the links, one Friday Follower for the next week's Friday Follow, and the chosen blog will be placed in the highly coveted number 4 position on the blog hop.

April is Prevent Child Abuse Month. Kids need our help. Please think about being a CASA Volunteer.

This is not an easy topic - but it is a very real topic we can't ignore.  Each year, approximately 780,000 children in the United States are caught up in the court and child welfare maze because they are unable to live safely at home. Try to imagine, if you can, the confusion and fear of children who are removed from their parents because the people who should have taken care of them couldn't or wouldn't do so. Imagine the fear of having strangers coming into your home and telling you to put together a few of your things - you are leaving with them. Even if these kids have lived in a world of fear and instability with their parents - these are strangers taking them away from the only home they know.

I'm not writing this post to engage in a debate about The Department of Family and Protective Services, I am writing this to ask for your help in responding to a problem we know exists. There are children who are being abused and neglected.  Everyday.  It's a very real, very ugly, problem we can't ignore.

There is a non-profit agency that makes a difference for these kids - but they can not do it without our help. CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is a volunteer organization devoted to one thing - what is in the best interest of the kids who find themselves, through no fault of their own, in this situation. Newborns through kids up to 18 years old, can all benefit from a CASA volunteer being in their lives when their world is turned upside down.

It's not easy volunteer work - it's not about just writing a check. This is heavy duty, volunteer work.  But it is also immensly rewarding volunteer work.  CASA volunteers make a huge, life-long difference in the lives of the kids they help.

CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to watch over and advocate for abused and neglected children, to make sure they don’t get lost in the overburdened legal and social service system or languish in an inappropriate group or foster home.  For many abused children, their CASA volunteer will be the one constant adult presence - the one adult who cares only for them. The ultimate goal is to ensure the child lands in a safe, loving, permanent home - whether that home is with the biological parents, other family members, or in an adoptive family. Doesn't every child deserve to be in a safe, loving, permanent home? You can help make it happen.  Very simply - you give them hope.

Each year, more than 68,000 CASA volunteers serve more than 240,000 abused and neglected children through 1,018 program offices. There is probably a CASA organization in your city, or county - please give them a call and see how you can help.  Here's the link to find out more:  National CASA Organization.