Interior Bathroom Design Tips

My guilty pleasure.

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoM0v4i_j34AQwN-IvGglFUieRh7GnP7qmJWNLeJfnFTL43vh7MDbwlym6R6YAZ11U_FlcVLaIEtD3arvEwURzUVWlrabf-1TtHl0FhGtUCiC-inEGVA4Vdv-f3arp7TlAsp0zpgAraWzn/s1600/photo+%25284%2529.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578970343441896802" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoM0v4i_j34AQwN-IvGglFUieRh7GnP7qmJWNLeJfnFTL43vh7MDbwlym6R6YAZ11U_FlcVLaIEtD3arvEwURzUVWlrabf-1TtHl0FhGtUCiC-inEGVA4Vdv-f3arp7TlAsp0zpgAraWzn/s320/photo+%25284%2529.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><br />Hot chocolate from the gas station.  Any gas station (but the Shell station up the street is the best).  Not Starbucks.  Their cocoa is way too bitter for me.  But I love me some good cocoa from the gas station.  Nice and warm, with lots of things to add to it.  <div><br /></div><div>My recipe?  Fill the cup more than 3/4 full, but not all the way to the top.  Add 3 French Vanilla little creamer things, then top off with some cold water to make it not so nuclear hot, then enjoy!  Love it!</div>

My guilty pleasure.

Hot chocolate from the gas station. Any gas station (but the Shell station up the street is the best). Not Starbucks. Their cocoa is way ...

8:51 PM

Parent Tips: Helping your teen deal with peer pressure.

<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrLBcLsTZXVXgTVtjEGJBm9rJaoRUrBVxsSEBZB4rQtuYFtVH5bPA5qv_2t92iRxmEPuAK7IHpNpzZIVzEPNw-Tb_Go9P0OW2oHOj_-r6vb_EQ5JLgbsJVhyhji24nthmA8imPyibfV2aM/s1600/baithook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrLBcLsTZXVXgTVtjEGJBm9rJaoRUrBVxsSEBZB4rQtuYFtVH5bPA5qv_2t92iRxmEPuAK7IHpNpzZIVzEPNw-Tb_Go9P0OW2oHOj_-r6vb_EQ5JLgbsJVhyhji24nthmA8imPyibfV2aM/s200/baithook.jpg" width="200" /></a>It is every parent’s nightmare, how their teen deals with peer pressure. When our children are young we have almost complete control over what occurs in their lives. Most children look upon their parents as Superman and Wonder Woman, filled with awe and love. But as our children grow, they still love us but, they stop looking at us as “icons” and turn towards others. This is what usually sets parents into all kinds of nightmare scenarios.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">If you are concerned about peer pressure and how your teen deals with cliques, here are some tips to help.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>Reinforce your family values.</strong> Belonging is a major issue for pre-teens and teens alike. That need to belong, drives many of their decisions in life. By reminding them that there family is important and by it is their own group, you create strong family foundations. Refer to your family as “the family name” to reinforce your values as a whole. For example – we are the Smythes and “the Smythes” don’t smoke or “the Smythes” don’t use aggression to resolve problems.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja1TEnvj_uMmZwqCCB39aH0Au0fIEgbmiK4bEBofEe-1zlxljDnuVmxmgUIo4C763LMyjhSzFEWzNxKNEkRVK1LK9DQVIQCl6YmDAZ9LqYwLoDZHBfGgTdsxPt8NJPEA2sWTzWF6Ulxm0T/s1600/mentor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="136" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja1TEnvj_uMmZwqCCB39aH0Au0fIEgbmiK4bEBofEe-1zlxljDnuVmxmgUIo4C763LMyjhSzFEWzNxKNEkRVK1LK9DQVIQCl6YmDAZ9LqYwLoDZHBfGgTdsxPt8NJPEA2sWTzWF6Ulxm0T/s200/mentor.jpg" width="200" /></a>If your children hear you saying these statements or similar from early on, they learn that they are indeed part of a bigger group – your family unit. Regularly speak to your children about the world and situations and your thoughts on those topics. By allowing your children to see how you view the world you give them a glimpse into what is important to the family as a whole.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>Build their self-esteem.</strong> Teens often join cliques or are pressured into situations because they have a bad self image. Another factor is that some teens just want to “fit in” or “be cool.” Work to building teens belief in their strengths. When our children are little we often praise them often for the many things they do – we clap when they take their first steps or say their first word. However, as our children grow our praise tends to diminish.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">While you don’t have to clap for every little thing your teen does, teens still need praise and to know they’re doing things right. Let your child know you’re proud of them and that you love them. Acknowledge their accomplishments. Some days the only positive thing you may find is the simple act of putting their dishes away, but by saying a simple “thanks, I appreciate you picking up your dirty clothes” you let them know that you notice even the small positive things they do.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Seek help from a professional if your child suffers from low self-esteem. Low self-esteem may lead to other issues such as depression and can wreak havoc in your teen’s life.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>Don’t sweat the little things.</strong> While you have every right to be concerned if you feel your child is getting in with the wrong crowd, sometimes as parents we have a tendency to overreact. If your teen dyes their hair purple, this doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re doing drugs or are ready to drop out of school. Speak to your child; it may be that they are simply experimenting or finding “their look.”</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Teens get to a stage where they’re trying to find their own path and their independence in a grown-up world. It’s important to give them a little space to figure this out. It’s also important to trust that as a parent you have already set strong foundations for your child. Now may be time to sit back and show some faith in them.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">However, if you do feel at any time that your teen is in trouble or has gotten into the wrong crowd, it is important to act on those feelings. No one knows your child better than you. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts as a parent and take action.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div>

Parent Tips: Helping your teen deal with peer pressure.

It is every parent’s nightmare, how their teen deals with peer pressure. When our children are young we have almost complete control over wh...

7:00 AM

HE'S HOME!!!!

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq37Q6k2JWlOFBlM42M-Xl5PTJ1mxtWlYCgvhkhVBNXO7BcrYxdTmA1JzmW3WoAWINmyXdKLFYPkGOB9xbWO9ertIGcc4VYUFD4AZ-mcEvNIrbQ7XAl0_I3ipA1N0Y6fl1_WD1M9j8Yxv2/s1600/IMG_1323.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578524889915100050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq37Q6k2JWlOFBlM42M-Xl5PTJ1mxtWlYCgvhkhVBNXO7BcrYxdTmA1JzmW3WoAWINmyXdKLFYPkGOB9xbWO9ertIGcc4VYUFD4AZ-mcEvNIrbQ7XAl0_I3ipA1N0Y6fl1_WD1M9j8Yxv2/s320/IMG_1323.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEWyZW0-WZ6LIa7QMsEfGR8xJKTJF8Yi7y5AmNlVLHHCJGYxTMvOfmqaQO63Bnwm4YdgJ8TKWoqrQA5wAR3kE2MqkJ4DZkZYgNW3SikRn_s2XYWuaYq0GvwGT-5mSkj_b1pmbKIsuF0r9/s1600/IMG_1322.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578524883937018162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEWyZW0-WZ6LIa7QMsEfGR8xJKTJF8Yi7y5AmNlVLHHCJGYxTMvOfmqaQO63Bnwm4YdgJ8TKWoqrQA5wAR3kE2MqkJ4DZkZYgNW3SikRn_s2XYWuaYq0GvwGT-5mSkj_b1pmbKIsuF0r9/s320/IMG_1322.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><br />Well, after 3 LONG WEEKS, he decided to COME HOME!!!  (See all my excitement???  All the caps... that's how excited I am!)  He finished his project in L.A. and was able to come home a week ahead of time and we were all so excited to see him and to have him home (and he was just as excited to come home!)!  We love you D and are very glad to have you back home with us!!!

HE'S HOME!!!!

Well, after 3 LONG WEEKS, he decided to COME HOME!!! (See all my excitement??? All the caps... that's how excited I am!) He finished ...

4:03 PM

Snow pretty.

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5N-xEOhV9O_zW3AADny35JGmhS_rzwa7em_wVLl-nBf2MOGbfqV2M2OhSbWL8iMrcJ5Co1jA5qd4PGtA5r8cJzlPOUiROsa6WeOOQ_AFo5Fg6ZCmU6vUgugPMgs6jjw2jV4XgCL9zrfX/s1600/IMG_1320.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578523932423068514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5N-xEOhV9O_zW3AADny35JGmhS_rzwa7em_wVLl-nBf2MOGbfqV2M2OhSbWL8iMrcJ5Co1jA5qd4PGtA5r8cJzlPOUiROsa6WeOOQ_AFo5Fg6ZCmU6vUgugPMgs6jjw2jV4XgCL9zrfX/s320/IMG_1320.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><br />It is so beautiful when it's all snowy outside, and the sun decides to shine.  Just one of God's gifts to us.  <div><br /></div><div>We found a couple icicles hanging off our roof, and also saw this and I couldn't help but take a picture.  Not the best, but believe me when I say it was "snow pretty"!</div>

Snow pretty.

It is so beautiful when it's all snowy outside, and the sun decides to shine. Just one of God's gifts to us. We found a couple ici...

4:00 PM

Evidence of said Snow Days.

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKi5MwKmn6BfCwBRlR3y3pC48SuJAShw-pEF0Fd_qe_TdMKZWR33YiEh9OiE407m0c1f06pYKYnv3e1ghXboBOWBEn_XDtt4v04YXSUmGAoe7Vi_roB7iVyxrDqfPtDX4_lRz0aBc9KMPa/s1600/IMG_1317.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578523334013124370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKi5MwKmn6BfCwBRlR3y3pC48SuJAShw-pEF0Fd_qe_TdMKZWR33YiEh9OiE407m0c1f06pYKYnv3e1ghXboBOWBEn_XDtt4v04YXSUmGAoe7Vi_roB7iVyxrDqfPtDX4_lRz0aBc9KMPa/s320/IMG_1317.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiec32UO4lP3g_NTNRdnisVFhPlUr4WZg1-3mvWdYfSmzmOVWtdX0Wi4ewh6AzlLYbVKeco-i3xK6Ys9kXX0i3rqnC8JeKVB3bhWZvrP2pRfDqO2DEKdmeiHE7Por6cCpXB6-rT1TjpNICm/s1600/IMG_1315.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578523328303854210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiec32UO4lP3g_NTNRdnisVFhPlUr4WZg1-3mvWdYfSmzmOVWtdX0Wi4ewh6AzlLYbVKeco-i3xK6Ys9kXX0i3rqnC8JeKVB3bhWZvrP2pRfDqO2DEKdmeiHE7Por6cCpXB6-rT1TjpNICm/s320/IMG_1315.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><br />And when the Snow Days do happen, our house is full of kids and ALL their belongs.  And you know that snow clothes are much bigger than regular clothes.  They make much more mess.  What's that about anyway????

Evidence of said Snow Days.

And when the Snow Days do happen, our house is full of kids and ALL their belongs. And you know that snow clothes are much bigger than regu...

3:57 PM

We've got snow!

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM0onV4hXRDhPWi7rYEwDUxQrpHRgXyoZYAKV317NA3vvzAuKoI2w1qgJTkJZerr08wkYiYmL2aY8fxl4gmDeVe4PpAAwGzvoxgG_3pckKT40ruzwX9R68WW-UbijXOrD1XhdgJvnkkm85/s1600/IMG_1319.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578524101873665298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM0onV4hXRDhPWi7rYEwDUxQrpHRgXyoZYAKV317NA3vvzAuKoI2w1qgJTkJZerr08wkYiYmL2aY8fxl4gmDeVe4PpAAwGzvoxgG_3pckKT40ruzwX9R68WW-UbijXOrD1XhdgJvnkkm85/s320/IMG_1319.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small; "><div style="text-align: center;">Sleds left everywhere.</div></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTz4GyhBOqpF5G2Xmoeby74GW-xc97qjyEmibHJiFXtDhi8DkDlr1jSGelcf-IFU1XtP9SUgQMhWPd7WWumVCktRrEpTsyQELJdjrn-pY6wvHUiwzCcP_iTg2BKDkXYfiAC6AZPknxOxj0/s1600/IMG_1314.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578522544955132050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTz4GyhBOqpF5G2Xmoeby74GW-xc97qjyEmibHJiFXtDhi8DkDlr1jSGelcf-IFU1XtP9SUgQMhWPd7WWumVCktRrEpTsyQELJdjrn-pY6wvHUiwzCcP_iTg2BKDkXYfiAC6AZPknxOxj0/s320/IMG_1314.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJL9M3UqR3-WF5PwKvVKXN_4Xf1YiaVxGa8F48djsUv6_ZNLCx55yqfGWOboAmHGgseVbxpmbD-pkbF5ijF_mJasdUrzAJk_93HSl6q1pdmxm3CnNcONXGljuGZO9hLhIYUbqJGHnqQH_Q/s1600/IMG_1312.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578522538200974898" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJL9M3UqR3-WF5PwKvVKXN_4Xf1YiaVxGa8F48djsUv6_ZNLCx55yqfGWOboAmHGgseVbxpmbD-pkbF5ijF_mJasdUrzAJk_93HSl6q1pdmxm3CnNcONXGljuGZO9hLhIYUbqJGHnqQH_Q/s320/IMG_1312.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="text-align: center;">Our street, which is a bit steep, totally gets the road closed and then is turned into an ultimate sledding hill.  All the kids hang out here.</div></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghuwB9syswRUAE39X-HAT_cYD9pkobZ9KBtAXciJb8NQ_YwMcoWYJbDDenkRtm4STZWSieqhJUeT2ixkFeYjOcwjnOwwnRpleg8d3KwGLaPu0ZanoePa8hLPaNyoaup09hC2m5oiRKXo8P/s1600/IMG_1311.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578522535964825122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghuwB9syswRUAE39X-HAT_cYD9pkobZ9KBtAXciJb8NQ_YwMcoWYJbDDenkRtm4STZWSieqhJUeT2ixkFeYjOcwjnOwwnRpleg8d3KwGLaPu0ZanoePa8hLPaNyoaup09hC2m5oiRKXo8P/s320/IMG_1311.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisuvGDObSb3Rhjlu-saw8_GdC1AKPiG-9XsNcE7-m_LQshsW5XfeN-fcOiSBNTa8ROgEuOvSWCeN9UWRO1JMUd_wxGhFgppb2Id_f8dGMBv6ZCOvNGMgwIvt3dGnNgRL7jHR1p-U1rTWW1/s1600/IMG_1310.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578522529685177234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisuvGDObSb3Rhjlu-saw8_GdC1AKPiG-9XsNcE7-m_LQshsW5XfeN-fcOiSBNTa8ROgEuOvSWCeN9UWRO1JMUd_wxGhFgppb2Id_f8dGMBv6ZCOvNGMgwIvt3dGnNgRL7jHR1p-U1rTWW1/s320/IMG_1310.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><br />We woke up to find our front yard full of snow!  We love when we get snow!  It doesn't stick around too long... but enough to enjoy some sledding, a snow day or two, some late starts, and just the "prettiness" of it all!  Even Cooper loves the snow!

We've got snow!

Sleds left everywhere. Our street, which is a bit steep, totally gets the road closed and then is turned into an ultimate sledding hill. Al...

3:53 PM

Scentsy Team Meeting.

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD6L35lT-Jyex0hSIARDH-LvfFJYikDUtfwvTXwI01MPYx8e40BvTusbX1ZTf6gXuP8pu7-nkNKMlVP3R3boV8rx0sDrzWHRZhWV6oiWidxrkCyPFruevhGR4arGOOsnXd1xAf2mXYc9kB/s1600/Team+Enjoy+meeting+2-11.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578521572054586514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD6L35lT-Jyex0hSIARDH-LvfFJYikDUtfwvTXwI01MPYx8e40BvTusbX1ZTf6gXuP8pu7-nkNKMlVP3R3boV8rx0sDrzWHRZhWV6oiWidxrkCyPFruevhGR4arGOOsnXd1xAf2mXYc9kB/s320/Team+Enjoy+meeting+2-11.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 238px;" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" ><div style="text-align: center;">(Notice Joy and I wearing similar sweaters!  Too funny!!!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span>I work (and play!) with some great people!  We have lots of fun and really enjoy sharing our ideas, our accomplishments, our friendships!  I love the people I "Scentsy" with!

Scentsy Team Meeting.

(Notice Joy and I wearing similar sweaters! Too funny!!!) I work (and play!) with some great people! We have lots of fun and really enjoy ...

3:51 PM

Sweet Dreams.

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioX6U9ooaZ08soeAfpRhsi3eUOIbPW3XYJj5TEMygrU7IvGs46NPk9A9fX9qwiXJVvzm6fLd1ICChF42osKIz_BPPYn-1lLDOqojhJn8V61OzfdvoGbvnrdwc7ipGPlN3DiVunnbi5NZWD/s1600/IMG_1308.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578520175327822114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioX6U9ooaZ08soeAfpRhsi3eUOIbPW3XYJj5TEMygrU7IvGs46NPk9A9fX9qwiXJVvzm6fLd1ICChF42osKIz_BPPYn-1lLDOqojhJn8V61OzfdvoGbvnrdwc7ipGPlN3DiVunnbi5NZWD/s320/IMG_1308.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><br />I swear, this kid can sleep in any strange position (Luke was the same way though).  About when he turned 3, he decided he was too "old" to take naps... so now every so often we find him in strange places around the house, sound asleep.  We've even found him at the bottom of the basement stairs sleeping.  Strange.  Why wouldn't you just go and get in your nice, cozy bed????  That's what I would do.  Just saying.

Sweet Dreams.

I swear, this kid can sleep in any strange position (Luke was the same way though). About when he turned 3, he decided he was too "old...

3:44 PM

Our <strong><u><em>Gang Awareness & Gang Recognition</em></u></strong> Course will be held <strong><u>March 22-23, 2011</u></strong> in Elk Grove Illinois. <br /><br /><strong>Who should attend this training?</strong> <em>Police officers, Educators, College Security, Mall Security Staff. </em><br /><br /><div><strong>What can I expect to learn at this course?</strong> <em>See the basic course outline listed below for a detailed list of topics that will be covered.</em></div><br /><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBIOdUlJADRwetF2uEP4pYsnG2OjugDo8cAR2VFWvPwsjsrEyovhFWfjNn5Q2c00gYL0l6OYyY25Eeje_YoytB8fx1snv4dQXgSUFuvfi-Udb8ZiUlgVEUDPXeygSaAGumi6o-OSYJwLgR/s1600/gangs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBIOdUlJADRwetF2uEP4pYsnG2OjugDo8cAR2VFWvPwsjsrEyovhFWfjNn5Q2c00gYL0l6OYyY25Eeje_YoytB8fx1snv4dQXgSUFuvfi-Udb8ZiUlgVEUDPXeygSaAGumi6o-OSYJwLgR/s1600/gangs.jpg" /></a><strong>What is included in the cost of the training?</strong> <em>Included in the two day course fee is a 120 page manual, class notes and handouts covering the course topics. Most attendees are absolutely amazed about how much information they walk away with. This is truly the most affordable training course available for the cost.</em></div><br /><strong>This two day course will cover a variety of topics here are just a few included in the Training Course: </strong><br /><ol><li>Gang History</li><li>Gang Lifestyle and subculture</li><li>Gang Definitions - Associate/affiliate, Claimer(wannabe), Full-fledged member, Hardcore member </li><li>Hybrid Gang Phenomenon, how it affects enforcement, identification and classification.</li><li>Profile of at-risk youth for membership, including Risk/Protective factors, Community Stance on crime, drugs, violence, School Administration, Law Enforcement response. </li><li>Gang recruitment techniques, including a youths needs to belong.</li><li>Intelligence gathering techniques, use of School Resource Officer, School Staff, Patrol Officers and Investigations</li><li>What Types of Intelligence do you gather? Operational, Tactical, Historical.</li><li>Where do you gather the intelligence at? School setting, Community, Other</li><li>Organization Policies: School - Dress, Non sanctioned clubs, Drug activity, Gang activity.</li><li>What is your agency mandated to do? By statute, By Policy ,What do to when the conflict?</li><li>Gang Profiles, National Gangs, Local, Local Drug trafficking groups?</li><li>Gangs use of technology? Social Media, Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, Use of the Internet to recruit, Post boasts/threats/RIPS, Commit crimes, </li><li>Crimes, Narcotics, Identity theft/Financial Crimes, Burglary Crews, Other crimes</li><li>Impact of Domestic Violence and Gang activity, Domestic violence, PTSD and teens</li><li>Girls, gangs and prostitution.</li><li>Understanding the dilema.</li><li>How to Interview/Interrogate gang members.</li><li>Safety issues involving gang members. </li><li>Disengaging youth from gang activity. </li><li>Community/Parental Education.</li></ol><br /><div></div>For more information on this course go to <a href="http://bit.ly/fpG7gM">http://bit.ly/fpG7gM</a>.

Our Gang Awareness & Gang Recognition Course will be held March 22-23, 2011 in Elk Grove Illinois. Who should attend this training? P...

9:00 AM

Contemporary Interior Design Ideas - Squaring

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixYCtvvwXZN7RRhimhe2DkxuEqTa_8MSioULPWvf_E2MS4Yni1iDsIQHGOHu9J7ZLNUO5khQOyA8px1LfEUqo3cDXXtESYTmx2HIYVKYKu7TagnwRotbxm_xhhabwzuyy-_zcEo25Lm-DJ/s400/cocina_abierta_al_salon.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixYCtvvwXZN7RRhimhe2DkxuEqTa_8MSioULPWvf_E2MS4Yni1iDsIQHGOHu9J7ZLNUO5khQOyA8px1LfEUqo3cDXXtESYTmx2HIYVKYKu7TagnwRotbxm_xhhabwzuyy-_zcEo25Lm-DJ/s400/cocina_abierta_al_salon.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 200px;" /></a><br />One thing that stands out about contemporary and modern design is its sharpness, its concern with function and function as the design itself. Square angles are incredibly functional – it its basic form it maximises space, it is most conducive to guests facing each other while they sit, it gives the easiest option for placement of tables and other accents.<br /><br />The look of the square design in a lounge is about creating a subtle paradox – the angles and placement are square and sharp, but some of the pieces are curved and sleek and all serving an exact purpose and function. It is related to the use of and shape of the people who are in the room and this creates a really cool relationship between the people, the design and the pieces.<br /><br />By having this style and it's objects placed in a square fashion, not only does it increase space – which of course makes everything seem bigger and more open, it gives the visitor more time to reflect on what is in the room and its relation to the space.<br /><br />These shapes also cause us to be extra aware of the space around the object. A square shelving unit on the wall for example, holding books or decorations inside, but carrying nothing on top is a bit of fun tricking on the mind's eye. It is about function and here is a spot where the function is ignored – it can be used, but is not. This causes us to reflect on the space around it and thus on the piece itself.<br /><br />Take some of the latest <a href=http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/interior-design.php/> interior design ideas</a> and use them in your home – you'll be amazed how different your rooms will look!<br /><br />Image: decorology

Contemporary Interior Design Ideas - Squaring

One thing that stands out about contemporary and modern design is its sharpness, its concern with function and function as the design itself...

12:00 AM

vintage metal box love & a virtual coffee...

<b><i>i'm a little late {as usual}...</i></b><br /><b><i>but i'm here....!</i></b><br /><b><i>*a virtual coffee*...with some vintage metal box finds...</i></b><br />love it...<br />yours is the pink chair {as usual}...<br />in front of the fire...<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho4OhUQuta8oaJTmmVFn-9yh4eO2eLKXQcLeyhgO7dZ5p1rxAHRSspsVq9nY9Nw15-63soHuwE_SFB_wzguzeQvg6ZdtY0ph9a7cczs1HXnL129AXf1QN3s7JaMZ_cVB9AISaSLlscZz_k/s1600/IMG_4676.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho4OhUQuta8oaJTmmVFn-9yh4eO2eLKXQcLeyhgO7dZ5p1rxAHRSspsVq9nY9Nw15-63soHuwE_SFB_wzguzeQvg6ZdtY0ph9a7cczs1HXnL129AXf1QN3s7JaMZ_cVB9AISaSLlscZz_k/s320/IMG_4676.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i>today i'm sitting on the window seat...</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i>with my vintage metal box stash...</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">we drove an hour to search for these...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">the b.b {british bestie} & i...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">a vintage second hand market up through the countryside...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">well we weren't searching for these specifically...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">we were searching for a few things from our *eternal list*...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>anything with typeset </i>just happens to be pretty near the top on both!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhpF3Zz6GkmXksmLraD9yX50SGTDpkgcED8ctDn5al5ZVH2XIEwtYLeD5bkT6-tk3tJ7ZOPqANHopsIfMnj62qnSfodsc8FzoQBqmgZhn8TJkHRPiMoxTaD_JR09Ceqs0TIFg6Pk43ERAr/s1600/boxes2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhpF3Zz6GkmXksmLraD9yX50SGTDpkgcED8ctDn5al5ZVH2XIEwtYLeD5bkT6-tk3tJ7ZOPqANHopsIfMnj62qnSfodsc8FzoQBqmgZhn8TJkHRPiMoxTaD_JR09Ceqs0TIFg6Pk43ERAr/s400/boxes2.jpg" width="323" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i>they aren't pretty like my teacups...</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i>they aren't girly...</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i>or lovely...</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">they are perfectly industrial...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">& sturdy...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">& strong...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">with a history....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">someone's history...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiXNnbPxzXwYA0RO8UTliSH8z3BCZV3agtxVi6Be8X-eCsh1ncmAzIw-kpBTe03_saKhADCIYsLZZ5XQnKfQR6kwftkr1DLzzfc1XoLaFjtb7r_cfk0YSvUb2usMDBREmOAUyt7pNC-ChZ/s1600/boxes1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiXNnbPxzXwYA0RO8UTliSH8z3BCZV3agtxVi6Be8X-eCsh1ncmAzIw-kpBTe03_saKhADCIYsLZZ5XQnKfQR6kwftkr1DLzzfc1XoLaFjtb7r_cfk0YSvUb2usMDBREmOAUyt7pNC-ChZ/s400/boxes1.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i>for a fiver i got two big tins...</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i>& all that was in them...</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">the man who sold them to us was delightful...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">rugged up in the cold...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">woollen cream jumper...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">big lovely scarf wrapped round his neck...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">smile from ear to ear...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">b.b & i liked him...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">so much so that we went back for a second lookie at his stall</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">& she bought another gorgeous old china plate from him...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">he was a perfect antidote to the <s>bloody</s> freezing winds & our very early morning...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm6Fh9UXHvG_mQn0O8-tQcKAZD8QSsbYxdW66Yek3Net2XZD0cKlefhVByaCxtYDTrzpL_pq-Ce_ORbB5TITcpg7M843o2EGaK8ItTKpJOyJ0dD34chMSGKUxnLvOdsxFlBC7ChnCWtHTh/s1600/boxes4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm6Fh9UXHvG_mQn0O8-tQcKAZD8QSsbYxdW66Yek3Net2XZD0cKlefhVByaCxtYDTrzpL_pq-Ce_ORbB5TITcpg7M843o2EGaK8ItTKpJOyJ0dD34chMSGKUxnLvOdsxFlBC7ChnCWtHTh/s400/boxes4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i>what a fix he was...</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i>& then b.b found me a proper old fashioned english jumble sale...</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i>in a village hall no less...</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">for an aussie gal in ol'blighty- nothing short of heaven...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">50p a ticket to get in...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">& a stall like no others...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">a wonderful little old lady with treasures galore...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">& each & every item had been explained on a ticket...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">hand-written & stuck with a date & price to the wares...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">these wonderful old books were 40p a pop from her...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">& b.b started another collection of blue & white china plates...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">nothing like buying old china that has been researched for you...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">& that comes with it's own little hand-written bit of history...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">the best of england is usually found at a jumble sale...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkekLgUmWRkEX2VEmucTRq6VuSzcN4NXHiQE030Kz2MGF53-AerlF6uiKcWJA31OUPnWmPpv0ZOlbSOBDVbolRZ5QNnJnXT4oyEaFKwpBpa3qWTaZw-WfT06PYMN6Xhzlk4YdtkzrtVf74/s1600/boxes3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkekLgUmWRkEX2VEmucTRq6VuSzcN4NXHiQE030Kz2MGF53-AerlF6uiKcWJA31OUPnWmPpv0ZOlbSOBDVbolRZ5QNnJnXT4oyEaFKwpBpa3qWTaZw-WfT06PYMN6Xhzlk4YdtkzrtVf74/s400/boxes3.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i>oops...</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>hope you brought your own coffee...</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>i haven't offered you a thing...</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>& </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>it seems i'm so infatuated with my metal stash </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>i haven't even asked how you are!!!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i>anyhoo....</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i>selfishly i was wondering....</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i>"any suggestions for my metal boxes?"</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i>you see...</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i>i think i may just do nothing but sit & stare lovingly at them</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i>if we were really having coffee together this morning </i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i>i think i would have been miles away....ahhhh</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i>xox</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpctQJTjkSDXwNYV9VhEhrQuLKF28UvuMfgn7zM2lQMXShCzdnU2oetRk0qI37_IMSTSm4wpSQ-Y3ClZMxDFECXxm8-sx080qfEHVYzoKL-rLPLf7DipYmWmoueRhjMzJcOqRjAuWo79wy/s1600/boxes2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpctQJTjkSDXwNYV9VhEhrQuLKF28UvuMfgn7zM2lQMXShCzdnU2oetRk0qI37_IMSTSm4wpSQ-Y3ClZMxDFECXxm8-sx080qfEHVYzoKL-rLPLf7DipYmWmoueRhjMzJcOqRjAuWo79wy/s400/boxes2.jpg" width="323" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: auto;"><br /></div>

vintage metal box love & a virtual coffee...

i'm a little late {as usual}... but i'm here....! *a virtual coffee*...with some vintage metal box finds... love it... yours is the ...

1:56 AM

Bedroom Design Ideas

<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bedroom Design Ideas</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ-Xln_65dBHsRZ2jvK-pkmWxZqkN1IduSyKJZUd4kel2pNd1C9zDW8D0vqd14I9fe1eomjjGhEHst2yPUJeKjynjaw_V5tWHYB78h2Uk8pm-Ar4R3X-uvb9qiEXfyaz2G1HAB-rxe9Yb9/s1600/bedroom+design+ideas.jpg"><img alt="Bedroom Design Ideas" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577150615609960082" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ-Xln_65dBHsRZ2jvK-pkmWxZqkN1IduSyKJZUd4kel2pNd1C9zDW8D0vqd14I9fe1eomjjGhEHst2yPUJeKjynjaw_V5tWHYB78h2Uk8pm-Ar4R3X-uvb9qiEXfyaz2G1HAB-rxe9Yb9/s400/bedroom+design+ideas.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 337px;" title="Bedroom Design Ideas" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrHvjkV1bzyFS1VptOlU-yVUKqddC3kRQjp7G8KD91p4YtUf9Psm7hY2iV-u_d8evoIRmifkD07cgDwXC_ERlucZRSOsJX70WHF5xWSeJjKtQK-nwyEoySwEj3ABERj_TgOWhyE2iyrA9/s1600/bedroom+design+ideas+%25281%2529.jpg"><img alt="Bedroom Design Ideas" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577150617287869602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrHvjkV1bzyFS1VptOlU-yVUKqddC3kRQjp7G8KD91p4YtUf9Psm7hY2iV-u_d8evoIRmifkD07cgDwXC_ERlucZRSOsJX70WHF5xWSeJjKtQK-nwyEoySwEj3ABERj_TgOWhyE2iyrA9/s400/bedroom+design+ideas+%25281%2529.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 289px; height: 400px;" title="Bedroom Design Ideas" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJuHQBHJEVtsrWzAsXxQK8qdyhE9SlxtnI73UfzAYz012K8gj4t9U7iiQKFxou081r1lKbivdQvMBqXgKw85YfDdbwVPYkNoWRqVFpL9nO-0GMtVfF-NICXl7jc_p2gIpoy6Lbz-PBUU1Z/s1600/bedroom+design+ideas+%25282%2529.jpg"><img alt="Bedroom Design Ideas" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577150609504336930" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJuHQBHJEVtsrWzAsXxQK8qdyhE9SlxtnI73UfzAYz012K8gj4t9U7iiQKFxou081r1lKbivdQvMBqXgKw85YfDdbwVPYkNoWRqVFpL9nO-0GMtVfF-NICXl7jc_p2gIpoy6Lbz-PBUU1Z/s400/bedroom+design+ideas+%25282%2529.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 240px;" title="Bedroom Design Ideas" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcywFyXnIXvxmAe_b6iE0c3sV7WmhkulGzenfNf37dtd_MY94hKzbKl6mOthu-nu2WKpUVTACson20WLD4NjOFW3eLZqP6A221BtesyzdVWfALsbPoNcYTYcAlIrwX0klHm6KYEd6Sjp9G/s1600/bedroom+design+ideas+%25283%2529.jpg"><img alt="Bedroom Design Ideas" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577150609717362402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcywFyXnIXvxmAe_b6iE0c3sV7WmhkulGzenfNf37dtd_MY94hKzbKl6mOthu-nu2WKpUVTACson20WLD4NjOFW3eLZqP6A221BtesyzdVWfALsbPoNcYTYcAlIrwX0klHm6KYEd6Sjp9G/s400/bedroom+design+ideas+%25283%2529.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 340px;" title="Bedroom Design Ideas" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvV2PcgiGaHl-T7h4rXaxk4KFqzhsoQjH-R1Th7fIZ2RIVJeSAdQKezkp_TqWU_j3Het2oU4OMinDX5E7Yc7PfrmWVm-wTZBkU2eHZUZnqB1XUlDi21qhfZ3YNH4vwC_4rHx0XmzBgOJOX/s1600/bedroom+design+ideas+%25284%2529.jpg"><img alt="Bedroom Design Ideas" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577150607718447570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvV2PcgiGaHl-T7h4rXaxk4KFqzhsoQjH-R1Th7fIZ2RIVJeSAdQKezkp_TqWU_j3Het2oU4OMinDX5E7Yc7PfrmWVm-wTZBkU2eHZUZnqB1XUlDi21qhfZ3YNH4vwC_4rHx0XmzBgOJOX/s400/bedroom+design+ideas+%25284%2529.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 354px;" title="Bedroom Design Ideas" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">The term "proportions" is employed in the field of design. All inside space that is being used by people has to be harmonious. Proportions are exceedingly significant in every design. Every 3 dimensional object will possess the important dimensions of length, breadth and height. When these three are in conformity with the proportions of different parts of physical body we name it a "proportionate" conception. For instance a handgrip of a closet needs to have dimensions such that our fingers could clench it decently for effortless and smooth implementing. or a chair seat has to have enough space so that we may sit without discomfort. Also the type of seating area will alter the proportions of the chair. A chair in the seating area of a bank building will be not like that of a sofa. From this we can see how proportions are an integral part of the interior design and the bedroom furniture needs to go according to the certain rules governed by this principle. Considering the purpose, the properties of everything, from the dresser and cupboard, down to the table lamp and bed are of great importance and have to be planned carefully.<br /></div></div>

Bedroom Design Ideas

Bedroom Design Ideas The term "proportions" is employed in the field of design. All inside space that is being used by people has ...

10:30 PM

Newest Edition of the Gateway Gazette is out!

Newest Edition of the Gateway Gazette is out!

Please check out our newest edition of our Gateway Gazette. Our E-zine newsletter is your best source for gang, gang trends, drugs, violence...

3:56 PM

Instructor Certification in Chicago 2011

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZx8jdhtc7T4jW_T8SlzEdOz7_Xe1XnRaAFagMWOCMY7US1K66v6BHPrFBYpq2HkLibwOvP7_EAME0XstYPX57NDcwEdq6RX54z9vWaijsbjqeEwkREu-Iudtr1wbQYfz1THIm6zkSrqJW/s1600/GATE+19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="60" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZx8jdhtc7T4jW_T8SlzEdOz7_Xe1XnRaAFagMWOCMY7US1K66v6BHPrFBYpq2HkLibwOvP7_EAME0XstYPX57NDcwEdq6RX54z9vWaijsbjqeEwkREu-Iudtr1wbQYfz1THIm6zkSrqJW/s200/GATE+19.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipf__UfOxEi0IwI_PbbnJmpftE4vIsntH738Q0lx9bOoBFxfJRYlP0z_MVUSTICQsQ1l0x_sMX1BTSfnOjnLr-QAw4hyphenhyphen5WUCvBF3Hi75htfTKK0IvAXUezO3x5lGnIulo0bANOt0IluLPN/s1600/gatelogo2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipf__UfOxEi0IwI_PbbnJmpftE4vIsntH738Q0lx9bOoBFxfJRYlP0z_MVUSTICQsQ1l0x_sMX1BTSfnOjnLr-QAw4hyphenhyphen5WUCvBF3Hi75htfTKK0IvAXUezO3x5lGnIulo0bANOt0IluLPN/s1600/gatelogo2.gif" /></a>GATE America, is proud to announce Instructor Certification Training May 23-27, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois This course will allow attendees to be certified instructors of the Gang Awareness Training Education Curriculum's. Once certified, instructors can deliver the drug, gang and violence prevention/intervention curriculum to their target audiences. The GATE curriculum's include three distinct programs. GATE Kids for K -4th grade, GATE grades 5-8 and RADICAL a high school program. These programs are in use and can be used in urban, suburban and rural communities. They have also been utilized in youth clinical settings involving juvenile offenders on probation and residential settings. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL4v1QSSPlNhPB4xhfhqDyZam5_ikHprh8aj1LUkvm-Iy-1Y6-6S1vqDZ34Y-eGdAV8aC_Q5l7ENQkNkkSV3C2gqQHGboERHXQs7pKqGQLNMM2qgEJRrS76wUCe7SMMA_pQmOGP-9egFzj/s1600/RADICALNEW+copy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="125" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL4v1QSSPlNhPB4xhfhqDyZam5_ikHprh8aj1LUkvm-Iy-1Y6-6S1vqDZ34Y-eGdAV8aC_Q5l7ENQkNkkSV3C2gqQHGboERHXQs7pKqGQLNMM2qgEJRrS76wUCe7SMMA_pQmOGP-9egFzj/s200/RADICALNEW+copy.gif" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rVuxag5xlBe5c-zR61g20VUqvx1v7dORUjWcr1_UXeZMztRUA5QvhfOrDV5VVOF_4gPDHNaZZCIkq4wQsc3TTYFIZLoXAvQ-yO1V0RJldM68CpYQuTIYSwufSZvuD3IvgZGgNA8Ztmiq/s1600/GATE+Kids+%25232.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="126" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rVuxag5xlBe5c-zR61g20VUqvx1v7dORUjWcr1_UXeZMztRUA5QvhfOrDV5VVOF_4gPDHNaZZCIkq4wQsc3TTYFIZLoXAvQ-yO1V0RJldM68CpYQuTIYSwufSZvuD3IvgZGgNA8Ztmiq/s200/GATE+Kids+%25232.gif" width="200" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />For more information about the program, to register or learn about the program follow the <a href="http://bit.ly/ibZ0Jj">link</a>.

Instructor Certification in Chicago 2011

GATE America, is proud to announce Instructor Certification Training May 23-27, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois This course will allow attendees ...

7:00 AM

Cookies for Sale!

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj44RHeFyxqtmxU8q9kJCMj1BGO-VxUPyW9Ld2RX23gaeC4v3bGKDOY9tqfPo8p9-Ay8BTWsk_J4i6OvJzXh3HaU_ry8vAQM_23ZxkukfxHtyl2xw6UzTkBLebx3VUvHHN7g_adlHMTP5Xu/s1600/IMG_1307.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576297171253649346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj44RHeFyxqtmxU8q9kJCMj1BGO-VxUPyW9Ld2RX23gaeC4v3bGKDOY9tqfPo8p9-Ay8BTWsk_J4i6OvJzXh3HaU_ry8vAQM_23ZxkukfxHtyl2xw6UzTkBLebx3VUvHHN7g_adlHMTP5Xu/s320/IMG_1307.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><br />Macy and I spent a couple hours in front of the produce market this weekend selling Girl Scout cookies.  Haley and I spent a few hours in front of Lowes.  (Note to self, cookies sell MUCH better in front of Lowe's than they do in front of the produce market... duh!)  Fun had by all, but I'm glad that we are done with this weekend.  Haley and I have another assignment, but hopefully it will be warmer then!

Cookies for Sale!

Macy and I spent a couple hours in front of the produce market this weekend selling Girl Scout cookies. Haley and I spent a few hours in fr...

3:59 PM

Carnage.

Carnage.

You can almost always find "dead Legos" in our house. Reed has this thing for the Lego people... but he almost always takes their...

3:57 PM

Can you see me now?

<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576296025121925778" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgdJWFFj-QdzcVjisZxzbRuQAHDZ1HSuGdrsbBeDesfqFzHEqESJTIJevyEGsLdMgwjIHmD9zlGuTjBSmPS1XKM9zXm5ZnlCgJwhcaShtYxNn4AiQAMYzRVA_kQPhzbYD6Rj6dszw5bS6-/s320/IMG_1248.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576307458196768882" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrxBtg7SpIdlD7qnvjOOW-QtS6NpR-b3B_94XBhsNKUvGUUlpSwyCG2iR0l25-a2UXb0b-263RGF_KYN0jXcbMGA4H6lcw3cVLvV_LWEMaWK7OUqq4Op_iOdD9gg9Wqg22EWgGWpIp0BI3/s320/photo.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKUs8EJAFgatLwwlW7MOhWIXMC_lL2AvCKhaaAYZ-u5uY7XBj1CxUUALn0zlrpKIfS3kGDZLWHdQgNqINK01VJ35yD5LtdHttYp7WmCNuAcK9vIwkkp35J2zK8gn0tfeqxg_FdaZEPYJ4g/s1600/IMG_1246.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576296019746372978" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKUs8EJAFgatLwwlW7MOhWIXMC_lL2AvCKhaaAYZ-u5uY7XBj1CxUUALn0zlrpKIfS3kGDZLWHdQgNqINK01VJ35yD5LtdHttYp7WmCNuAcK9vIwkkp35J2zK8gn0tfeqxg_FdaZEPYJ4g/s320/IMG_1246.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a></div><br />D loaded Skype onto my computer and his computer quite a while back because he was doing business with a company in China and he needed to make sure that it would work.  Well, little did we know that it would become our primary source of communication for a while!  The kids love it!  They think it's really cool to talk to daddy this way.  It took me a while to get used to it though.  Better now.  I like that I can continue to do stuff on the computer while I am talking to him.  It's fun to check in with him everyday this way!

Can you see me now?

D loaded Skype onto my computer and his computer quite a while back because he was doing business with a company in China and he needed to m...

3:53 PM

Because we care.

Because we care.

D wanted to be involved in the Picture of a Day thing, so he sent me a pic of the care package that we sent him for Valentine's Day. No...

3:52 PM

The Wrong Crowd: What do I do when I see my teen with the wrong Crowd?

<span style="font-size: xx-small;">By Robert Tornabene</span><br /><br />I am frequently approached by parents asking this very question. My answer usually shocks them, probably because of its simplicity. Many parents expect to have some new book thrown at them or referred to a specialist. But most often they already have what they need to help, the just do not know how to apply it.<br /><br /><br /><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw_q76HwWRyQftM5OZlZcaIwkNbaCaes2gTn5Z4uc3ha2nTo4tKW0UqDQjldR8ur06IFJgU42hQHzB7uGcVwUjwBMYUCyYDL33VO0XCXO0ROQGQRNrJ6dMMti3bEFLNP2-jKQeaah5ZdSZ/s1600/teen+attitudes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw_q76HwWRyQftM5OZlZcaIwkNbaCaes2gTn5Z4uc3ha2nTo4tKW0UqDQjldR8ur06IFJgU42hQHzB7uGcVwUjwBMYUCyYDL33VO0XCXO0ROQGQRNrJ6dMMti3bEFLNP2-jKQeaah5ZdSZ/s200/teen+attitudes.jpg" width="132" /></a>My daughters principal once said at a parent meeting that teens go through a period in life in which they “go crazy” for several year and then several years later the “return to reality.” How true that can be, for some parent experiencing the turmoil of transition for a teen and not being prepared for it or even aware it will happen. The transition from junior high into high school is a big one for your teen, and it often leads to significant changes in your teen's circle of friends. The friends that you're used to your teen hanging around may drift away as they get involved with different things in high school, and your teen may connect with another group entirely--a group that you believe is influencing your teen in a negative way. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><br /><br /><strong><u>Here are some simple and easy things that parents frequently forget to work with their teens:</u></strong><br /><br /><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>Talk to Your Teen</strong> – Many parents run on autopilot for a while with your teen and as a result the lines of communication may be rusty. To address this issue, consider spending more time with your teen. If your teen knows you care about what's going on in their life, they will be more likely to listen to what you have to say. As parents you should also consider how to approach talking about their teen’s friends. This is extremely crucial if it is delivered in the wrong way, teens will defend their friends to the death and will often shut down and close themselves off to you if they feel you are attacking them? Your best approach is to attack their behavior rather then place blame on the friends. You can discuss how their behavior has changed since he or she started hanging out with a particular group of friends. Providing examples of what types of behavior are acceptable and unacceptable is extremely important.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">When you do reach the topic of your teen's friends, make sure you discuss the specific types of behavior they demonstrate that you're unhappy with, rather than vague, sweeping criticisms. Addressing it in this manner helps reduce the chances of your teen thinking you just blindly hate their friends for no reason. For example, "I think that (name of friend) is disrespectful of woman. I saw him swearing at a girl in the parking lot after the football game. That's not okay, and I don't want you to think it's okay to treat me that way either."</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>Have the Friends over</strong> - Typical responses when you talk to your teen about his or her friends are "You don't even KNOW my friends!" or "You just don't understand." If this is the case, open up your home and have your teen's friends over a time or two. Order in some pizzas and spend some time with them. Make an honest attempt at building a relationship with them. You don't have to hover, but get an idea of who they are, their personalities and what makes them tick. This is an important part of assessing your teen's circle of friends. Sometimes they're not as bad as their hard exterior and crazy hair lead you to believe. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYgMh3sVmVklIPdk2msVmAwFgs_vjW5q_wBrVvbpltJlV1ReiOiYdkdcaIi7oofvF1Kt2FO42xF-nbw9AGV4_AGG7e9DSwb4UIfwpymllJBmCGpDMl5mPtE1_-c13yBXPbdIpi_P-F7VsC/s1600/teen+attitudes2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYgMh3sVmVklIPdk2msVmAwFgs_vjW5q_wBrVvbpltJlV1ReiOiYdkdcaIi7oofvF1Kt2FO42xF-nbw9AGV4_AGG7e9DSwb4UIfwpymllJBmCGpDMl5mPtE1_-c13yBXPbdIpi_P-F7VsC/s200/teen+attitudes2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Don’t make the mistake of becoming a friend to your child and their peers. Many parents, think that becoming the cool parent, the one they can all hang out with is a good thing. This can create all kinds of issues, some between parents of the teens and others that might have criminal implications. Remain a parent first and foremost.<br /><br /><strong>Know Their Friends' Parents</strong> - If your child is getting into trouble with a group of friends, chances are there are a couple other parents out there who aren't happy about it either. Get in touch with the parents of your teen's friends and discuss what you can do to counter what's happening when your teens get together. You will also learn which parents are contributors to their child’s behavior, attitudes and actions based upon the responses you get during your conversations. While it's tempting to play the blame game, don't fall into that game. You don't want to ostracize the adult(s) who can help reinforce any separation or disciplinary action you have to take.<br /><br /><strong>Find Positive Mentors</strong> – Parents, guardians all have to address many issue and so many of us believe we have to do that alone. Whether you are a single parent or you are a parent with limited time to devote to your child because of financial issues finding a person who has a positive influence in imperative. In the world of sales there is a term called “Sphere of Influence.” The “Sphere of Influence” is simply the sum total of all the people you know in your life whom you still maintain contact. You may be amazed to learn that there are many people out there who want to be help. Reach out to those people who might be able to provide that positive influence in your child. Perhaps he or she can foster or develop a skill that you child has interest in, putting them on to the right path in life. If your teen won't listen to your warnings about their friends, perhaps they will listen to someone who's been in their shoes more recently.

The Wrong Crowd: What do I do when I see my teen with the wrong Crowd?

By Robert Tornabene I am frequently approached by parents asking this very question. My answer usually shocks them, probably because of its ...

7:00 AM

Using Colour – Going Green

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirCEbWsUUfhJCijAUymbYVD0Bd2nlIEQQPhyuIycsgBZ9TZlKhWhJlZuMIPGGBxG7_JIKv0f9RYaDUJCJaG-5Eh4Ya84IWpgB3RWbcZUW25KoFrPwbNqpgCeS0o5w8pBSj1cvcoWLrAgUY/s400/Philip-Gorrivan_INTERIORS_2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirCEbWsUUfhJCijAUymbYVD0Bd2nlIEQQPhyuIycsgBZ9TZlKhWhJlZuMIPGGBxG7_JIKv0f9RYaDUJCJaG-5Eh4Ya84IWpgB3RWbcZUW25KoFrPwbNqpgCeS0o5w8pBSj1cvcoWLrAgUY/s400/Philip-Gorrivan_INTERIORS_2.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 375px;" /></a><br />We're probably all getting fed up with the cliché 'going green' and yet this timeless classic colour has survived through the decades in various shades and continues to be many people's choice of colour in any room in their home.<br /><br />Darker shades of green, Regency or racing green for example, are ideal for large living areas. Going dark on an accent wall and bringing the room together with dark green ready made curtains, cushions and throws can creates a refined and sophisticated look. Paler shades are ideal to team with soft pinks for an on-trend look which suits all styles of homes; while acid or lime greens are the perfect colours to use with white, aubergine or hot pink in contemporary living spaces.<br /><br />You don't have to go over-board, as too much of one colour can be very overpowering, however, buy adding pops of green, such as lime green curtains or a <a href=http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/cat/rugs/green/>green rug</a>, you can rejuvenate a tired looking room instantly without having to carry out a complete makeover.<br /><br />Green symbolises growth and new life, making it's the ideal colour to use to give your home a fresh new look this spring. Add floral designs in soft furnishings to create a country cottage look, a majestic and sophisticated look can be achieved using darker hues and for those who want to inject the latest trends should opt for lime, neon or acid greens!<br /><br />Image: Belle Maison

Using Colour – Going Green

We're probably all getting fed up with the cliché 'going green' and yet this timeless classic colour has survived through the de...

3:18 AM

Gang Awareness & Recognition Course

<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The <strong><em>Gang Awareness & Recognition</em></strong> Course will be held <strong><u>March 22-23, 2011</u></strong> in Elk Grove Illinois. <strong></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>Who should attend this training?</strong> Police officers, Educators, Security Staff. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>What can I expect to learn at this course? </strong>See the basic course outline listed below for a detailed list of topics that will be covered.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>What is included in the cost of the training?</strong> Included in the two day course fee is a 120 page manual, class notes and handouts covering the course topics. <em>Most attendees are absolutely amazed about how much information they walk away with. This is truly the most affordable training course available for the cost.</em></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>This two day course will cover a variety of topics here are just a few included in the Training Course: </strong></div><ol><li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Gang History</li><li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Gang Lifestyle and subculture</li><li>Gang Definitions -  Associate/affiliate, Claimer(wannabe), Full-fledged member, Hardcore member </li><li>Hybrid Gang Phenomenon, how it affects enforcement, identification and classification.</li><li>Profile of at-risk youth for membership, including Risk/Protective factors, Community Stance on crime, drugs, violence, School Administration, Law Enforcement response.</li><li>Gang recruitment techniques, including a youths needs to belong.</li><li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBIOdUlJADRwetF2uEP4pYsnG2OjugDo8cAR2VFWvPwsjsrEyovhFWfjNn5Q2c00gYL0l6OYyY25Eeje_YoytB8fx1snv4dQXgSUFuvfi-Udb8ZiUlgVEUDPXeygSaAGumi6o-OSYJwLgR/s1600/gangs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBIOdUlJADRwetF2uEP4pYsnG2OjugDo8cAR2VFWvPwsjsrEyovhFWfjNn5Q2c00gYL0l6OYyY25Eeje_YoytB8fx1snv4dQXgSUFuvfi-Udb8ZiUlgVEUDPXeygSaAGumi6o-OSYJwLgR/s200/gangs.jpg" width="200" /></a>Intelligence gathering techniques, use of School Resource Officer, School Staff, Patrol Officers and Investigations</li><li>What Types of Intelligence do you gather? Operational, Tactical, Historical.</li><li>Where do you gather the intelligence at? School setting, Community, Other</li><li>Organization Policies: School - Dress, Non sanctioned clubs, Drug activity, Gang activity.</li><li>What is your agency mandated to do? By statute, By Policy ,What do to when the conflict?</li><li>Gang Profiles, National Gangs, Local, Local Drug trafficking groups?</li><li>Gangs use of technology? Social Media, Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, Use of the Internet to recruit, Post boasts/threats/RIPS,  Commit crimes, </li><li>Crimes, Narcotics, Identity theft/Financial Crimes, Burglary Crews, Other crimes</li><li>Impact of Domestic Violence and Gang activity, Domestic violence, PTSD and teens</li><li>Girls, gangs and prostitution.</li><li>Understanding the dilema.</li><li>How to Interview/Interrogate gang members.</li><li>Safety issues involving gang members. </li><li>Disengaging youth from gang activity. </li><li>Community/Parental Education.</li></ol>For more information on this course go to <a href="http://bit.ly/fpG7gM">http://bit.ly/fpG7gM</a>

Gang Awareness & Recognition Course

The Gang Awareness & Recognition Course will be held March 22-23, 2011 in Elk Grove Illinois. Who should attend this training? Polic...

10:00 AM

5 Mistakes Parents Make with Teens and Tweens

Here are the top mistakes parents make with their teens and tweens, and how to avoid them. By Joanne Barker Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD<br /><br />Things aren’t the way they used to be. Your 12-year-old no longer comes to you first when she feels hurt or disappointed. When your son misses curfew -- again -- the time-out corner that used to work wonders is now simply, lame. As your child grows into adolescence, you need to adapt your tried-and-true parenting skills to a rapidly changing world.<br /><br />As tempting as it might seem, don’t throw away everything you know about your child -- or yourself as a parent. Your teenager may seem like a stranger in your home, but behind the slammed doors and mood swings, she is still your child. You will face many unknowns in the years ahead. What you can expect is that your limits will be tested and your patience will, at times, wear thin. Here are the top mistakes parents make with their teens and tweens, and how to avoid them.<br /><br /><strong>Teen Parenting Mistake # 1: Expect the Worst</strong><br />Teenagers get a bad rap, says Richard Lerner, PhD, director of the Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development at Tufts University. Many parents approach raising teenagers as an ordeal, believing they can only watch helplessly as their lovable children transform into unpredictable monsters. Expecting the worst sets parents and teens up for several unhappy, unsatisfying years together.<br /><br />“The message we give teenagers is that they’re only ‘good’ if they’re not doing ‘bad’ things, such as doing drugs, hanging around with the wrong crowd, or having sex,” Lerner tells WebMD. Raising teenagers with negative expectations can actually promote the behavior you fear most. According to a recent study conducted at Wake Forest University, teens whose parents expected them to get involved in risky behaviors reported higher levels of these behaviors one year later.<br /><br />Lerner urges parents to focus on their teenagers’ interests and hobbies, even if you don’t understand them. You could open a new path of communication, reconnect with the child you love, and learn something new.<br /><br /><strong>Teen Parenting Mistake #2: Read Too Many Parenting Books</strong><br />Rather than trusting their instincts, many parents turn to outside experts for advice on how to raise teens. “Parents can tie themselves into knots trying to follow the advice they read in books,” says Robert Evans, EdD, executive director of the Human Relations Service, Wellesley, Mass., and author of Family Matters: How Schools Can Cope with the Crisis in Child Rearing.<br /><br />“Books become a problem when parents use them to replace their own innate skills,” Evans tells WebMD. “If the recommendations and their personal style don’t fit, parents wind up more anxious and less confident with their own children.”<br /><br />Use books (and articles like this) to get perspective on confusing behavior and then put them down. Spend the extra time talking with your spouse and children, getting clear about what matters most to you and your family.<br /><br /><strong>Teen Parenting Mistake #3: Sweat the Small Stuff</strong><br /><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeDRYY-BcQfMtGjGSqkIjMy_XrbbnrXKMj7dFePjMIyDoyT3Lz2aH3AiCazWFfJWwblB871UVWXDZi40olNjh-i0c49BJ1CRV23HQrvz0f2m7BqMMcbDJ9wclW0dgJza4ju9118MFtgagl/s1600/Teenager.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeDRYY-BcQfMtGjGSqkIjMy_XrbbnrXKMj7dFePjMIyDoyT3Lz2aH3AiCazWFfJWwblB871UVWXDZi40olNjh-i0c49BJ1CRV23HQrvz0f2m7BqMMcbDJ9wclW0dgJza4ju9118MFtgagl/s200/Teenager.jpg" width="200" /></a>Maybe you don’t like your daughter’s haircut or choice of clothes. Or perhaps she didn’t get the part in the play you know she deserves. Before you intervene, look at the big picture. If a certain mode of self-expression or set of events does not put your child at risk, give her the leeway to make age-appropriate decisions and live with the results.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">“A lot of parents don’t want growing up to involve any pain, disappointment, or failure,” Evans says. But protecting your child from the realities of life robs her of the opportunity to take chances and learn from her mistakes while she’s still under your roof. Step back and let your child know you’re there when she needs you.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>Teen Parenting Mistake # 4: Ignore the Big Stuff </strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">If you suspect your child is using alcohol or drugs, do not look the other way. Parents should address suspected drug or alcohol use right away, before it escalates into a bigger problem, says Amelia M. Arria, PhD, director of the Center on Young Adult Health and Development at the University of Maryland School of Public Health.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">“The years when kids are between 13 and 18 years old are an essential time for parents to stay involved,” Arria tells WebMD. Parents might consider teen drinking a rite of passage because they drank when they were that age. “But the stakes are higher now,” she says.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">More drugs are available today, illegal drugs and legal medications. For example, cough remedies with DXM (dextromethorphan) have become a new drug of choice for some teens. DXM is easy to get and teens and parents alike underrate its potential dangers. Studies show that between 7% and 10% of U.S. teens have reported abusing cough medicine to get high. Although safe when used as directed, DXM can cause hallucinations and disassociations similar to PCP or ketamine (Special K) when used in excessive amounts, as well as rapid heartbeat, unconsciousness, stomach pain, and vomiting.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Watch for unexplained changes in your teen’s behavior, appearance, academic performance, and friends. If you find empty cough medicine packaging in your child’s trash or backpack, if bottles of medicine go missing from your cabinet, or if you find unfamiliar pills, pipes, rolling papers, or matches, your child could be abusing drugs. Take these signs seriously and get involved. Safeguard all the medicines you have: Know which products are in your home and how much medication is in each package or bottle.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>Mistake #5: Rule With an Iron Fist, or Kid Gloves</strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-90BiC1oHaqJsDQzmdPnyKpoTvOwI2zxc1D613OG_jf_aOyHQ9JsBayldbUa0jADA6cLAggAfgW2SZB0WIpN1azZWIXpiWEkTxyRUeoE8p1jr5KEZ-urvjyluXr1OnStngAZSkKo0TMAw/s1600/teenager_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-90BiC1oHaqJsDQzmdPnyKpoTvOwI2zxc1D613OG_jf_aOyHQ9JsBayldbUa0jADA6cLAggAfgW2SZB0WIpN1azZWIXpiWEkTxyRUeoE8p1jr5KEZ-urvjyluXr1OnStngAZSkKo0TMAw/s200/teenager_01.jpg" width="149" /></a>Some parents, sensing a loss of control over their teens’ behavior, crack down every time their child steps out of line. Every day brings a new punishment. The home becomes a war zone. By contrast, other parents avoid all conflict for fear their teens will push them away. They put being a cool parent ahead of setting limits and enforcing rules. For these parents, discipline is a dirty word.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The first style of parenting focuses on obedience above all else. Although the house may run like a tight ship, teens raised in rigid environments don’t have the opportunity to develop problem-solving or leadership skills.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Yet too little discipline does a disservice to teens as well. Teenagers need clear structure and rules to live by as they start to explore the world outside. It is up to parents to establish their household’s core values and communicate these to their children through words and consistent actions. Lerner calls this being an authoritative parent, an approach that “helps children develop the skills they need to govern themselves in appropriate ways.”</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>Your Child Is Your Child, Through Thick and Thin</strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Raising teenagers isn’t always easy or smooth, especially when testing parents’ authority is part of growing up. Some days, faced with one teenage eye roll too many, you may wonder if it’s even worth trying.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Keep in mind that your influence runs deeper than you think. Most teens say they want to spend more time with their parents. And teens choose friends that have their parents’ core values. Keep making time for your child throughout the tween and teen years. Even when it doesn’t show, you provide the solid ground they know they can always come home to.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br /></div><br /><strong>SOURCES:</strong><br /><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Richard M. Lerner, PhD, director of the Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development, Tufts University, Medford, Mass.</span><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Robert Evans, EdD, executive director, The Human Relations Service, Wellesley, Mass.</span><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Amelia M. Arria, PhD, director, Center on Young Adult Health and Development, University of Maryland School of Public Health.</span><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">News release, “Teens behaving badly? Negative expectations might produce negative behaviors,” Oct. 15, 2009, Wake Forest Office of Communications and External Relations.</span><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">US Department of Health and Human Services – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, “Helping Your Children Navigate Their Teenage Years: A Guide for Parents.”</span><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Office of National Drug Control Policy, Executive Office of the President, “Prescription for Danger: A Report on the Troubling Trend of Prescription and Over-the-Counter Drug Abuse Among the Nation’s Teens.”</span><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The Partnership for a Drug-Free America, PATS TEENS 2008 REPORT.</span><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">News release, “Drug abuse expert Dr. Drew Pinsky and the Five Moms join in fight against OTC cough medicine abuse,” October 21, 2009, Consumer Healthcare Products Association.</span><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The Partnership for a Drug-Free America, “Time To Act: What to do if your child is drinking or using drugs.”</span><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Honore’, C. Under Pressure: Rescuing Our Children from the Culture of Hyper-Parenting, Harper Collins Publishers, 2008.</span><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Lerner, R. The Good Teen: Rescuing Adolescence from the Myths of the Storm and Stress Years, The Stonesong Press, LLC, 2007.</span><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>

5 Mistakes Parents Make with Teens and Tweens

Here are the top mistakes parents make with their teens and tweens, and how to avoid them. By Joanne Barker Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD...

8:00 AM

Tin Grin

<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575046286726467634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbdWLFfK4iUkzbzRp8osPx8JMwihrDT9r3-pcD21iudCu0xHVZEn6kH4kPxp_hgMv7yOmj-nsVWgrj4fiZFjeQXtaoxbuEFn-Un8AEpRdpGWYGQEo0mf8kVwnyMYHsGqIk72ZJyULlG3zW/s320/IMG_1296.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575046284610316034" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLw3H8vrt9oVMebtB5rtr4EH0Mk3MsdudCjW3C87cvy5pyB_MAQB7lmGu206QX5b1oD1R6-qcKbA6coEdlGtFh9k-zaRrcdkMKlQHY-DNQiVH14liDsnOJNRoFiX6zuYXg9bKpG-0-jHGk/s320/IMG_1295.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-VB_zHyUTNyT48sZU37MhJtKJFDg7G7YTyBKGMyO2ntEb-3dv-QVeAHuraMnd2HuIU6K8YF-H8BWtDHOWed4wFjRsP5vHiD2sjBMGsYBf6TcWTnUSqd8Ig4fZqIQtaiF7DMUdpIjhRU-8/s1600/IMG_1294.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575046274371024578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-VB_zHyUTNyT48sZU37MhJtKJFDg7G7YTyBKGMyO2ntEb-3dv-QVeAHuraMnd2HuIU6K8YF-H8BWtDHOWed4wFjRsP5vHiD2sjBMGsYBf6TcWTnUSqd8Ig4fZqIQtaiF7DMUdpIjhRU-8/s320/IMG_1294.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVHKtChgep_Sj5OxOZs7UWjctDx7W085vSisXm8eAOju8Pr_Q4QKQaj3nevCA9b3nRZqyrpoX2m8caNiauRdqzUGfzrUYn-1qPUzcVVzF9h4ooj-6BeTcTmGEybB3uWCyiGnMKKGtYKxZ/s1600/IMG_1293.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575046268180115330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVHKtChgep_Sj5OxOZs7UWjctDx7W085vSisXm8eAOju8Pr_Q4QKQaj3nevCA9b3nRZqyrpoX2m8caNiauRdqzUGfzrUYn-1qPUzcVVzF9h4ooj-6BeTcTmGEybB3uWCyiGnMKKGtYKxZ/s320/IMG_1293.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" >We are very fortunate to have a good friend as our orthodontist!  He takes great care of us and the kids!  We love you Dr. Allen!!!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>And the first of our "Tin Grins"!  Doesn't he look cute?  Some kids can totally pull off braces!  <div><br /></div><div>He picked green and gold for his first set of bands so that he's ready for St. Patrick's Day.  Totally a kid after my own heart!  Having his braces coordinate to the closest holiday!  Gotta love that!!!</div>

Tin Grin

We are very fortunate to have a good friend as our orthodontist! He takes great care of us and the kids! We love you Dr. Allen!!! And the ...

7:04 AM

State Reports are in our house...

<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDI2fgir_WRaby0R9DKn2OPEK2oGmGeYwOOsloxF7bF4VGV_LI7sErgLlNCR9f8dovwVruci5BLF8F59xtKIPxpNlQNM678kJ8CQqPPvv7yJaS41zlzaTZUe_eVwM-6YHmHgTPzg8SbCVU/s1600/IMG_1287.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575045398276921314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDI2fgir_WRaby0R9DKn2OPEK2oGmGeYwOOsloxF7bF4VGV_LI7sErgLlNCR9f8dovwVruci5BLF8F59xtKIPxpNlQNM678kJ8CQqPPvv7yJaS41zlzaTZUe_eVwM-6YHmHgTPzg8SbCVU/s320/IMG_1287.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a><br />One of the reasons I love my Cricut machine is that I can use it to help the ENTIRE 5th Grade (ok, maybe 5 of them.  Whatever!) come up with stuff for their State Report.  So far I have worked on Hawaii, North Dakota, Michigan and Mississippi... and Macy's working on Idaho, so we've been full of states in our house this week.<div><br /></div><div>And for all my hard work and efforts I've profited 4 cupcakes and $4 so far.  I might have to make this my new living!</div>

State Reports are in our house...

One of the reasons I love my Cricut machine is that I can use it to help the ENTIRE 5th Grade (ok, maybe 5 of them. Whatever!) come up with...

7:00 AM

Interior Bathroom Design Tips

My guilty pleasure.

Parent Tips: Helping your teen deal with peer pressure.

HE'S HOME!!!!

Snow pretty.

Evidence of said Snow Days.

We've got snow!

Scentsy Team Meeting.

Sweet Dreams.

Contemporary Interior Design Ideas - Squaring

vintage metal box love & a virtual coffee...

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