NYC Post #4

This is a picture of my neck.

This is not a hickey.

I swear.

I am offering to let people touch it and feel the blister so they can verify it's a curling iron burn.

I haven't done that since high school.

And I haven't had a hickey since high school either.

This is what happens when your husband is making you hurry because he can't wait to get back to sightseeing.

NYC Post #3

Well, I'm home, and we've got lots to talk about.

Let's start with the most important topic: Pillows.

Why in world do hotels think that people like squishy pillows? I know that I am most likely in the majority when I say I like a pillow with a little firmness to it, but the last 4 hotels I've stayed in had not gotten this message.

The pillows at our hotel in NYC were invisible. At least that's what it felt like when I laid my head upon them and promptly felt the mattress with my ear. Unbelievable.

Typically, when this happens, I rustle up a sofa accent pillow to use under my invisible pillow to mimic some firmness. But we had no sofa, so= no sofa accent pillow!

Also, while we are discussing my Pillow Requirements, king-sized beds need at least 5 pillows on them, everybody knows that! I need a huggie pillow as well as one under my head.

Come on NYC, if everyone loves you so much, why do you have squishy pillows? I'm going to start spreadin' the news- Your pillows suck.

Mobile posting test. I am a technical genius.

Oh and

I stopped in Coach and this is my new obsession- the Parker in violet. Isn't that gorgeous? And springy? And something I need? Hoping for a PCE soon.....

NYC Report #2

Ok, two things got marked off my NYC to-do list. I can go home happy.

At Pinkberry, I had the Pomegranate with white chocolate shavings. OMG----- best thing I ever had. And low calorie! I could eat this for every meal.

And at the Magnolia Bakery, I had a red velvet cupcake with whipped vanilla frosting. Fabulous.

NYC Report #1

Well, my day yesterday was not off to a good start.

Since our plane was leaving at 7:00 am and of course we didn't finish packing before we went to bed, I set the alarm for 4 am (good Lord!) and got in the shower. 5 minutes after I got in the shower the electricity went off and didn't come back on! Girls, I do not have the kind of hair that can air dry! Especially my bangs.... anyway, when we left for the airport, I had wet hair and we had packed by candlelight!

But guess who I saw in the Newark airport? Kim Zimmer from Guiding Light!!! I wish I could have gathered up enough courage to stop her to talk and take a pic, but I was, as usual, frozen and couldn't talk! Oh well, she looked fabulous and so pretty!

More later.......

Glade Sense & Spray

Have you tried Glade Sense & Spray yet?

I was offered a BzzAgent campaign for this, and it seemed right up my alley. This unit is "smart" and only dispenses the scent when someone is in the room! Genius! Why do I need my house smelling good when I'm not there? You all know I'm a bargain-hunting mama and hate wastefulness.

The kit I received, which retails for $8.99, came with 2 AA batteries and the Clean Linen scent, which I have to admit is my not cup of tea. So I went on their website to see what other scents they offered and was excited to find Apple Cinnamon. The refills retail for $3.49 and are also available in Country Garden and Powder Fresh, which I haven't smelled.

The Apple Cinnamon scent is divine. Makes my living room smell "homey" and like I imagine your home smells when you bake an apple pie (although I wouldn't know, I'm just guessing!).

Has anyone else tried it yet?

Because I Know You Are Dying To Know This

I hate packing.

The whole thing stresses me out. How am I going to decide? How am I going to make it all fit? What if something gets beyond wrinkly and I can't fix it on vacay? Wah...... I haven't even thought about shoes yet.

10 extra pounds on my frame isn't helping because I can't wear my favorite clothes right now. But that's another issue for another day.

The hubs and I are headed to NYC tomorrow. I'm excited, but the whole packing debacle is ruining it for me. Also, our luggage is no where to be found, which should make for a fun evening of placing blame and most likely a quick trip to buy some too-expensive luggage.

On another note, any tourist tips for NYC? Can't miss places?

Notes From School

The Politician and his friends promised not to catch bees anymore. Two friends were stung today.

Revelation

I am old and I will never be Chic Runner. But I can pretend, can't I? She's precious and my running idol.

I just ran 11 miles in 1:54:00 and damn, I'm 35. And 3 months.

At the start of mile 11, my knee was starting to give out, my hammies were super-mad at me, and when I got home my pinkie toes felt dead- like they might need to be cut off.

But I did it!

I think all those years of pop-splits and high kicks did me in. Yeah, that's it. That's the problem. It has absolutely nothing to do with being a 35 year old beer-drinking worn-out mom of two crazy kids.

I am off to the beer fridge for a Wild Blue. Hopefully I can walk tomorrow.

If You Are Out and About

you should head by CVS today.


I have had a crazy week and hadn't made it to CVS yet- the horror! So I dragged poor WC there so I could rock my deals. Both of these deals end today.


1. 12 packs of Coke products are 3/$11, but then you get $3 ECB back, so the net price is 3/$8.


2. Skintimate Moisturizing Cream Shave is basically free! Pay $3.49, but then you get $3.49 in ECB back!

Happy Shopping!

Uncle

I cry.

It's only 6:45 am, and I am tired, and there aren't enough hours in the day to do what I need to get done today.

Big Festival is coming up and there are lots of details to take care of. I'll be back to normal as soon as it and the half-mary are over.

Pray Tell

Please tell me how to dress my kids (and myself) when it's 29 at 6:30 am and will be 69 for a high in but a few short hours.

I guess I need to send them with a bag of various clothes of various weights and materials. Because they'll need a heavy coat this morning and shorts this afternoon.

I'm ready for summer.

Notes From Sunday School

Hey Sasha!

Hope you had a great weekend! I just love The Politician. He is really neat. Today in Sunday School we were sitting on the floor and talking about the palm branches. Before I went into any detail or started the lesson....The Politician told all of us exactly what the palm branches represented. He told us about Jesus on the donkey and the people of Jerusalem waving their branches and laying down their coats. I was so impressed!

Have a super week! See you Tuesday.
Sunday School Teacher Ms. R

Notes From School: 4-2-09

WC was placed in time out on three occasions today. Each time she responded well after being sent to time out, and she rejoined our activities with good behavior and more enjoyable interactions. She is making progress in this area. :-)

And yes, the smiley face was there. I got a knot in my stomach as I read that, but felt better by the end of the note. This has been a week filled with appointments related to WC and in-service visits by our therapists for WC at school, and we are making some progress.

Our Child Development Specialist is organizing a giant meeting between me and the Mr., our OT, our LCSW, WC's teacher, the CDS, and a psychologist. Whew, it better be a big table! I am excited that so many people are helping us. Life is good.

My Newest Motto

Right Now

I'm baking a Diet Coke Cake.

Basically, a cake mix and a diet soda mixed together and baked according to the box directions. Nope, you don't use oil or eggs.

I've heard raves about it, and it's only 2 WW per slice (or something crazy like that) and tomorrow we are celebrating the birthday of a co-worker who is very health-conscious, so this will be just her style. (I hope!)

I chose a yellow cake mix and a Diet Cherry 7up.... Hope it turns out OK! I'll let you know.

Mabel's Labels

One of my favorite companies, Mabel's Labels, is offering something special today! Check it out!

Chili's Winner

Beach Bum, you were the 13th commenter, so you are the winner of the two Chili's Guiltless Gourmet meals!

Email me at barelytogether at yahoo dot com and I'll put them in the mail to you tomorrow!

Congrats!

Chili's Guiltless Grill

Yesterday I went to lunch with my dear friend Heather to celebrate her birthday. We were having a hard time deciding where to go when I remembered the BzzAgent Chili's Guiltless Grill campaign I was in. BzzAgent had provided me with coupons to try items off their new menu for free! All six entrees have less than 750 calories and are served with steamed seasonal veggies and Parmesan cheese.

Heather and I braved the extremely windy and cold and rainy day and went to Chili's at 11:30. We were seated immediately, which was nice since we were hungry!

We had several items to choose from, but Heather and I both ended up choosing the Guiltless Buffalo Grilled Chicken Sandwich.

Here's the description from Chili's webpage: Grilled chicken breast topped with low-fat Ranch, shredded lettuce, tomato and sauteed onions. Or kick it up with our traditional Buffalo spicy wing sauce. Served on a whole wheat bun. $7.79

We both agreed that our sandwiches were fabulous! The ranch and buffalo sauce together made for a spicy, but not too spicy, kick for the chicken. Since I am not a veggie fan, Heather decided she liked the broccoli so much she'd enjoy mine too!

I still have two coupons left to try one of these entrees for free, and I'd love to give them to one of my readers! Leave a comment on this post and I'll choose a winner on Monday at 8 pm CST.

One quick thing: You need to be a follower to enter. Last time I did a giveaway, a link ended up on a random giveaway site, and lots of people I didn't know entered. I want this to be a fair reward for reading Sasha Says, so please don't enter if you aren't a follower, because I will delete your comment.

Good luck!

My Stomach Has a Crush On

Bakerella.

I stumbled across her blog last week when the bargain board was going nusto-crazy for her Cake Pops and once I got sucked in, I couldn't stop reading. This woman is fabulous. And a genius. And I may just want to marry her. At least so she can make treats for me and the kiddos.

I emailed the hubs a link to her Nutter Butter Balls, and he replied back that he gained 5 pounds looking at the picture, but I if made them, the world was mine.....

We all know that as a general rule, I could not and will not ever make the Cake Pops, but the Nutter Butter Balls might be within my reach, but I certainly don't want a repeat of the Snow-Capped Volcanoes.

So I'm considering myself her new student, and will be doing quite a bit of research towards my goal of becoming The Mom Who Makes Really Neat Treats. Wouldn't it be great to be known as that? I'm not sure what I'm known as right now... maybe The Beer-Drinking Mom, or
The Mom With the Daughter Who Has Some Behavioral Issues. I might be The Mom Who Runs, and I think I'm The Mom Who Looks a Bit Younger Than Her 35 Years.

Anyway... since I know I'll make this happen since I know that I have a fab teacher, I went ahead and ordered this shirt from Bakerella's site:

Can't you see me in that? Precious. And I will attain it. (in all that free time I have)

Toddlers & Tiaras: Munchausen by Rhinestone

Have you seen Toddlers and Tiaras?

One part of me wishes I hadn't. And the other, bigger portion of me is addicted to seeing this little slice of life of this crazy subculture called Glitz Pageants. So far I have seen two episodes and I am anxiously awaiting my Tivo picking up some more.

I wish I could take credit for the whole "Munchausen by Rhinestone" thing, but I have to admit I saw it on the TWOP forums yesterday.

So your assignment is to give it a watch and let me know what you think. I personally think these parents are Crazy with a capital C and that they are living vicariously through their admittedly adorable kids. But that's just my opinion.......

The Performer

Last night, I asked The Politician to put his shoes on so we could leave to go to dinner at the home of some friends of ours.

I saw him putting on socks and I said, "If you just want to wear your Crocs, you won't have to worry about socks."

He replied (somewhat impatiently), "Well, I'll need them for my act."

If You Have 4 Spare Minutes

you should check out WB's new online series Rockville CA. Each episode is around 4 minutes long and features an up-and-coming band recorded live. Created by Josh Schwartz (The OC, Chuck, Gossip Girl), this series basically follows a group of 20-somethings around a rock club.

Although there are only 4 episodes to watch at this time, a new episode will be uploaded each Tuesday. I just finished watching all 4 and I'm intrigued enough to at least give it a few more episodes. Maybe it's because I'm a music-loving working mom who can't make it out to the clubs to watch live music all that often these days......

I Can't Believe I Forgot To Comment On This Last Week

"I'm dedicating my first dance to all my girls in the federal detention center."

-- Lil' Kim, who has spent time in prison, on Dancing With The Stars

Oh. My. Word.

I *Heart* Ebates

Guys, I just found the coolest link and description of my blog on the ebates blogroll:

A mother of two breaks down all aspects of her life from her shopping habits to her children's health. Generally entertaining, and always value-focused, it's a great resource.

I'm a great "resource"- how fab is that??

I've been a fan of ebates for years- in fact, I've been with them for so long I've amassed almost $800 in rebates and referrals!

If you've been living under a rock and haven't signed up yet, what are you waiting for? Ebates is a shopping site that gives you up to 26% Cash Back every time you shop online. You can shop at over 1000 stores including Barnes & Noble.com, Gap, Target, Buy.com and Expedia. Plus you get additional savings with exclusive coupons, free shipping offers, and limited-time sales!

Sign up with Ebates today and we'll each get a $5 bonus when you make your first purchase!

Click here to sign up:
http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=m3mwtfM2CWTiwGJU%2Bp86ew%3D%3D

Happy shopping!
Sasha

The Apple and The Tree

I think he inherited my mad dance skillz.

Edited: Can you all see this post on Tuesday night? I tried to schedule it to post first thing in the AM, but the scheduler doesn't seem to be working (or else it's user error). Help!

The St. Patrick's Day Run Report

Last April a group of my college besties and I ran a marathon relay and had the best time. We also have a standing Girls Weekend the last weekend of July each year and I can not get enough of these girls- they are the best friends a girl could ask for! Plus, two of them grew up with my hubby and introduced us way back in late 1992.

This year we decided we would all run the half. Since none of us live in the same town these days, we've been doing our training separately. Stephanie found a St. Patrick's Day run near me and we planned a fun weekend that included the morning race and going our for dinner and drinks, husbands included.

This is what Cory wanted to wear. Since the temperature here can be 20 one day and 80 the next (hell, the same day even!), it's truly hard to plan your wardrobe too far in advance.

See these long sleeves, pants, and knee socks? Very handy when it's in the 30s! I am well aware that the Yankees cap doesn't go with the green theme, but it was raining! (And yes, eqsmom and East Coast Girl, I know you don't approve of the hat.)

Super-special thanks to Chic Runner who coached me on what kind of pants to buy the day before the race since I typically stay indoors on the treadmill when it's this cold! I got these at Target and loved them- specially the zippered back pocket for my key.

We ran in an 8K that had pizza and green beer at the finish! My kind of race!

That afternoon we met at 4 for dinner and drinks. Because we're senior citizens already at 35.

I truly love all your girls and can't wait for our night at the M family farm and our Mexico trip this summer! I miss you all and had the best time with you this weekend! Smooches!

Pimpin' green sequin style.

Many drinks and a few Red Headed Sluts later..... I have no idea what the 4 means......

Spring!

Lookit!

It's Spring!

I'm sure it will be 20 degrees again soon. And probably snow.

But I'll take this nice week of weather and not complain one little bit.

Are you watching DWTS?

Chuck Wicks

Back in 2007, I introduced you to him and we discussed his hotness. Well, actually I talked to myself about it because only the lovely and lately-MIA Kate commented on my list.
Chuck Wicks is beyond dreamy and makes DWTS so much better. It's adorable that is dating Julianne Hough- love her too! She's the ballroom dancer I wish I was.
I am also loving that Melissa from the Bachelor is on there. She is precious and a fabulous dancer.
Do you think I might watch too much TV?

Newest Motto

Always on the hunt for my own personal mission/vision statement, I found this and thought it was perfect:

Trying to arrange my life so I don't even have to be present.

American Idol Woes

Yup, I had Jorge in the office pool. As usual, the person I drew went home the first night. Seriously, that always happens. I even sat out the last Survivor pool to see if that would break my streak.

Obviously, that didn't happen.

Broadway Bound

Rock of Ages

In 1987 on the Sunset Strip, a small town girl met a big city rocker and in LA’s most famous rock club, they fell in love to the greatest songs of the 80s. It’s ROCK OF AGES, an arena-rock love story told through the mind-blowing, face-melting hits of Journey, Bon Jovi, Foreigner and many more. Don’t miss this awesomely good time about dreaming big, playing loud and partying on.

ROCK OF AGES takes audiences on a musical joyride set to blazing hits from iconic rockers such as Journey, Bon Jovi, Styx, Reo Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Poison, Asia, Whitesnake and many more. Crowds and critics agree—ROCK OF AGES is ”a nonstop party laden with sexy choreography, energetic performances and an on stage band that totally rocks the house" proclaims The Associated Press. The New York Post says, ”ROCK OF AGES does for 80s rock what Mamma Mia! did for ABBA.“

I will be in NYC next month and I've always wanted to go to a Broadway show. What do you think about this one? I think it looks great. Thoughts?

Countin' the Benjamins

Last month I signed up for mint.com and have been tracking all of our expenses.

Which is great, but now it is scarily quantified just how much money I spend on health and beauty items (read: nail polish).

I'm not sure anyone needs to know that, especially my husband.

Nail polish spending aside, mint.com is really pretty cool. All your bank and credit card transactions are downloaded each day and categorized for you. You can set up a budget amount for each category, and it will send you email alerts if you are close to going over-budget. You also get email alerts when your credit card payments are almost due, which is fab if you are finding yourself very unorganized like I seem to be these days.

The Sickies

have infected the Sashas and put some kinks in The Weekend Plans.

And since I didn't get much sleep last night, the fab post about the weekend, complete with pics, just won't be up until tonight.

I shall direct you to Mamalicious for a run-down of the fabulousness. Here's some trivia for you: While there, I came down with DTMB Virus (Drank Too Many Beers Virus) but I am feeling better this AM than I did yeseterday AM. Damn Texas Beverlies!

Dear Old Navy Marketing Execs,

The Modelquins scare me and do not make we want to buy your clothes.

That is all.

Home After a Great Day

This morning, before surgery

Our goal for this second (and final) surgery was to remove the remaining scar tissue.

Tonight, after surgery

They were able to remove all the scar tissue! Don't be scared by the uneven-ness of the wound- they assure me that as it heals, it will stretch and smooth out nicely. We are so pleased!

We let them know that we wouldn't be letting her have the Versed that caused such a major problem last time. When I told the anesthesiologist that, she said, "Oh, will we have a problem taking her back to surgery without it?"

I assured her that WC has never met a stranger and would have no problem going back to the surgery un-medicated. The plan was to give her gas once they got her back in the surgery room, followed by the IV.

The surgery took less than 20 minutes, and when they wheeled her back out to us, she was drinking an apple juice box. She saw her brother's Popsicle and of course asked for one.

The doctor and nurse practitioner came out to chat about the results and let us know that WC was "quite entertaining" before they got started with the surgery.

I can't tell you how glad I am to have this all behind us! Thanks for all your prayers over this hemangioma journey!

Heading South Tomorrow

for The Wild Child's second and final hemangioma scar revision. It's just an outpatient surgery, so we'll hopefully be home by dinnertime.

I'll take some before pics and some after pics when the bandages come off. I'm very excited to put this all behind us.

Keep us in your prayers!

You'll Never Believe This

but I just ran 8 miles. In 1:20:20. (including 7 one minute breaks)

Holy carp. It was super-cold and I had freezer burn (frostbite?) on two fingers when I got back. Really- two fingers were bright white from the knuckle up and I wasn't sure what to do about that, but I keep moving them around and the problem seem to right itself after about 20 minutes in my 70 degree house.

Proof positive that anyone, literally anyone, can learn to run.

Right now I am listening to Undomestic Goddess on my ipod and loving it. Seriously- my hour and 20 minute run flew by because I was listening to an awesome book.

Hope you guys had a great weekend! Smooches!

It Takes a Village

You guys know that I have been having difficult times with The Wild Child lately, and I have been (im)patiently waiting for things to turn around. Almost three weeks ago WC and I visited a family therapist together who offices with our OT in hopes that she could give me some tips to make things go smoother at home. I also wanted to make sure that we weren't dealing with something like Oppositional Defiance Disorder.

I've been to see the therapist twice on my own since then, and one of the things we've been talking about is me finding some confidence in myself. I needed to remember that I am a good mother! I was having such a rough time that I was simply feeling sorry for myself and a little bit lost, parenting-wise, and come to find out, that's just a vicious cycle that creates more problems. The therapist thinks that WC is so in tune to me that my anxiety severely affects her. Since she knows she doesn't know how to deal with that along with her other issues, she pushes me away.

I feel so blessed to have found someone else who can help us. It's amazing how much better I feel after just three visits! She thought that as I gain my confidence back and institute some of her tips and ideas, things would slowly get better.

Well, last night was the best night we have had with her since her surgery in October! She actually let me lay down and snuggle with her and read some books and she fell asleep with her little hand on my chest. I am so excited that things seemed to have turned around for us!

In your prayers tonight, remember WC and I and ask for continued support for us from all the wonderful people who have been helping us over the last year. It seems to take a village to raise my child and I'm super happy to have the population of my village continue to grow.

Where Have I Been Today?

• OT with the Wild Child
• meeting at city offices about the music festival
• work (my paying job!) where I freaked out about a deadline I forgot about and ate lunch at my desk
• another meeting from 6-8
• now home finally

Now it's time for a break and I am fixin' to go eat one of these:

South Beach Living Fiber Fit S'Mores Bars

Absolutely, hands down, the one of the best thing I've ever eaten. Actually, Neiman Marcus bars are the best thing I've ever eaten, but the S'Mores bar earns points for tasting good and being a points-friendly snack choice!

120 calories, 4 grams fats, and 9 grams of fiber. Yup, 9! Capping fiber at 4 grams, that's just 2 points! Well worth it, my friends.

These are so good they are sinful. Rush to the store. Getcha some!

Abundance Check: Written!

I been watching threads about Abundance Checks on my bargain board, and I jumping on the bandwagon this month. Who doesn't need some abundance in their lives! I, for example, could use more time, patience, and energy.

Abundance checks are a tool you can use to create more abundance in your life. They are written within 24 hours after a New Moon. Surprisingly, you really don't even need to believe that the check will work when you write it. You will however be amazed at the results, as you will see increased abundance in your life, in some life area. It is not always financial, but certainly in an area that you need.

1. Within 24 hours after a New Moon, take a check from your check book. Where it says "Pay to," write your name.

2. In the little box on the same line where you would fill in a dollar amount write "Paid in full."

3. On the line underneath your name, where you would write out a dollar amount, write "Paid in full."

4. Sign the check: "The Law of Abundance."

Do not put a date on the check. Do not write a specific dollar amount in the check. Put it in a safe place and forget about it. The Universe will take it from there.

Last night was the new moon here, so I've written my check this morning. It'll be interesting to see what follows.....

Dessert Contest Entry Yet Again

Yes, I did it.

I went ahead and entered the damned dessert contest at my work yet again.

After I was robbed last November, I swore I'd never enter again.

But I am a glutton for punishment and I whipped something up last night.

My new theory: Go super-easy because the judges around here don't seem to appreciate time and effort.

So I spent a very short time making a Super-Duper Apple Cake, which was recommended by a zillion people on the bargain board. The recipe can be found here. I made this last month for a Sunday school party, and one of the guys swore it was the best thing he had ever tasted in his entire life (Hi Matt!) so I'm thinking it was a good choice. We shall see......

Unbelievable

Last night about 7:00 I was getting ready to run the bath water for The Wild Child's bath, and my husband came into the bathroom and said, "I think you're too late...."

She was fast asleep on the couch.

We decided to just put her to bed and see what would happen.

She slept until 6:45 am! (To be fair, I should tell you she snuck into our bed twice in the middle of the night, but she went right back to sleep when I carried her back to her own bed.)

Knowing her sleep issues, I'm sure you'll agree with me- that was crazy!

I'm hoping this is the start of something new......

GDA: Crocs at Finishline.com

I hesitate to tell you about this, because I think Finish Line does a crappy job on their website, but they are having a pretty fabulous sale on Crocs.

I tried for hours yesterday and would get my cart all filled with goodies for the kids, and then it would crash and I'd lose it all.

That being said, their site seems to be working today, except for the fact that they still have links up for products that are out of stock. You don't find out whether it's in stock until you click on a product- which is uber-annoying.

I was unable to find any toddler sizes of shoes that I wanted, but I did order some preschool size 1s to put up for later. Four pair, shipped, was $35.48- so $8.87 a pair. Still a pretty good deal.

But be prepared that their site is going to piss you off! Don't say I didn't warn you!

(Oh, and don't forget to go through ebates for 5% back- referral link on the left!)

Have You Smelled?

DKNY Be Delicious Fresh Blossom

($40 for 1 oz)

and



Clinique Happy In Bloom?
($30 for 1 oz)

There was a sample of the DKNY in the March 09 Glamour that I have smelled but not tried on yet, but I did try the new Clinique at Dillard's on Saturday.

Typically, I don't wear fragrance because I seem to get a headache when I smell a constant smell. But these were very nice and seemed pretty light, so I'm actually thinking about getting them. Seems very spring-y!

Yummy Giveaway

Go check out this fun giveaway!

Ebates Daily Double is Avon today!

Fabulous Sasha Says reader Erin G pointed out to me that Avon is today's Ebates Daily Double! That means they are offering 10% back rather than the usual 5%, today only. If you saw my Avon post last week (free shipping codes included!) and haven't gotten around to ordering yet, today's definitely the day.

Now, if you have yet registered for Ebates, what in the world are you waiting for? I got an email this morning that my quarterly check is on the way- and it's $173! Ebates is wonderful about referrals- if you sign up under me, we'll both get $5. And then you can refer all your friends and family members and get $5 for each of them that signs up! Such a win-win situation!

Let me know if you have any questions.

Happy shopping!

Thank Goodness I'm Already Happily Married

Because if I was a Bachelor contestant, I'd be in trouble.

I think Jason has taken all the final girls on airplane rides, and we all know how I am on airplanes! I am sure he'd cut me after he saw my unavoidable air travel behavior.

And on that note, Mr. Sasha and I are flying to NY in mid-April for a little vacay. I've got two things to figure out before then: if my doctor will prescribe me a Xanax to take pre-flight, and how to get tickets to a Broadway show.

The Xanax will require a phone call that I will of course put off until the last minute.

But I imagine I need to work on the Broadway ticket thing now. Any advice?

Oh, and if you are watching The Bachelor, you should really be reading I Love the Bachelor Blog. Great play by play and great commentary.

ING $25 Bonus

Would anyone like a code to get a $25 ING bonus?

The primary account holder must be a new ING customer. Since I was already an ING customer, I set up a savings account for The Wild Child and put myself as the joint owner.

There is no minimum deposit to get the bonus (typically their minimum for a bonus is $250). I started with $50, but I imagine you could start with as little as $1!

First person to email me at barelytogether at yahoo dot com will get the code!

(By the way, I get no referral bonus for this. I just have an extra code I am unable to use since the entire family now has ING accounts!)


As of 3:04 CST, code has been taken! If I get more, I'll re-post.

Norman Music Festival Offers Joaquin Phoenix First Professional Gig

Yesterday, Norman Music Festival offered Joaquin Phoenix his first professional gig.

Now how cool would it be if he really came?

Mabel's Labels: My All-Time Favorite Product

Back in the days when I had bottles to prepare for daycare, I embarked on a hunt for the perfect product: a label that would stay put without fading or peeling through the dishwasher, the crock-pot (that's how my daycare heated bottles), and oh, it needed to be cute too!

When I found Mabel's Labels, I knew I hit the jackpot! They had great products, and great customer service to boot. I've been using their products for over 3 years now and love them. Here's a few of my favorite products.

These Shoe Labels are fabulous- I know my daycare providers love me since they can quickly tell which shoes belong to the Sashas! These two-part labels (colorful main label and clear top label) stay fresh through sweaty socks and even through the washing machine. ($18.50 for 24 labels)

I use the Skinny Minis for all sorts of things- these were my bottle and lid labels, and I use them for sippy cups and anything else I need to label for daycare. ($18.50 for a pack of 80)

I saved my favorite product for last- the Tag Mates. We use these for any piece of clothing the kids may wear to school, including coats..... these don't come off either. Wash and dry.... no peeling off. These beat iron-on labels by a mile! ($21 for 75 labels)

Although they are a Canadian company, shipping to the USA is only $3. Shipping within Canada is free.

Mabel's Labels has given me five 15% off codes to share with my friends. These codes are good through February. Please email me at barelytogether at yahoo dot com if you'd like a code- oh and please, since there are only five codes, please only request a code if you plan to use it.

Getcha some!

Our Semi-Homemade Life

Have you ever "met" someone online and knew that you were kindred spirits?

That's how I felt when I met Elaine on the birth club message board for our Jan 06 girls. There were more than a few crazy coincidences that brought us together- our girls had the same first name (even spelled the same way!), her daughter was born on my birthday, and Elaine was originally an Okie like me.

It didn't take long before we were emailing each other on a daily basis and even making plans to meet in Summer 07. Luckily we hit it off in person too! In February 08 Mr. Sasha and I were in TX for a weekend getaway and and while he golfed Elaine and I had a fabulous day of shopping and girl-talk.

So you really need to go meet Elaine right this very second. I swear you'll love her- she's a chic, super-cool working mom of two who somehow manages to (Barely) Keep It All Together much better than I do! She just started a beyond-fabulous blog that you'll love- Our Semi-Homemade Life. Show her some Sasha Says love!

Notes From School: Some Redemption

I think The Politician's teacher knew how upset we were about him being asked to leave Spanish class the other day, because we got later got this note:

As usual The Politician is the first in line to help. The apple doesn't fall far etc. He also needed very little prompting on his manners.

And he got a good manners treat after lunch.

Swoon

Too Faced Mood Swing Emotionally Activated Lip Gloss ($18.50)

From Sephora.com:

What it is: An emotionally activated lip gloss that ranges from Smurf-blue shimmer to beautiful berry.

What it does: Too Faced Mood Swing Emotionally Activated Lip Gloss allows you to wear your emotions on your lips. Depending on your body heat level, the gloss blooms into countless shades of Smurf-berry pink. You never know what shade you'll get, but Smurfette thinks that's part of the fun!

I love this so so so much that I ordered a back-up! Note that this is a bit different than the original (which I also love), although the name seems to be the same on Sephora's site. The Smurfette version is more wine/berry than pink. Don't be scared of the "blue" mentioned above- it's only blue for about 3 seconds!

Silly Blogger

Well, blogspot address aren't redirecting to custom urls as they should.....

http://www.barelykeepingitalltogether.blogspot.com/ should redirect to http://www.sashasays.com/, but it's not....

On the blogger board, seems to be a blogger-wide issue.

If you've still got an old bookmark, like I did for Lipstick until just now, it won't work. Lipstick can be found at http://www.lipstickatthemailbox.com/ if anyone is looking for her! Be sure and change your bookmarks so you won't have this issue in the future.

Others I've redirectected in the past:

http://www.ashleyquitefrankly.com/
http://www.angryjuliemonday.com/
http://www.multislackingmama.com/
http://www.iusedtobewitty.com/

Any others I missed?

http://www.chicrunner.com/

Hope you can find who you are looking for until Blogger works this out!

Notes From School

Monday:

The Politician and a friend were asked to leave Spanish class on Monday because they were being disrespectful and disrupting class.


Tuesday:

The Politician was in the "Top 3" in manners at lunch today!!!!!

As you can see, consistency is not a Sashas family trait.

A New Lipstain

My favorite Avon rep, Valerie, knows how much I love lipstains, so when Avon's mark line recently re-released their Kissink Lip Tintmarker, she was kind enough to send me one to try.

I tried the Tintmarker in Berry Bitten and I love it! Typical lipsticks and glosses bleed into the lines around my mouth, which is so annoying! But using a lipstain and a gloss over it keeps that from happening. Quick note: You need to make sure your lips aren't chapped before you try a lipstain. Lipstains and chapped lips don't mix!

Follow these steps to ensure you get your free shipping AND your ebates rebates.

1. Visit Valerie's site first to make her your default rep

2. Log into ebates to get 5% back and go through them to get to the Avon site

3. Once the Avon site pulls up again, you should see Valeri's name near the top of the site

4. Choose your products and then use code REPFS or FSANY to get free shipping (if one doesn't work, try the other)

Happy Shopping!

Follow these steps to ensure you get your free shipping AND your ebates rebates.

1. Visit Valerie's site first to make her your default rep

2. Log into ebates to get 5% back and go through them to get to the Avon site

3. Once the Avon site pulls up again, you should see Valeri's name near the top of the site

4. Choose your products and then use code REPFS or FSANY to get free shipping (if one doesn't work, try the other)

Happy Shopping!

A Little Too Late

Last night when I got home from work, I checked our Call Notes, and we had a message.

"Hello. This is Sam's Club calling. We noticed you purchased some of the recalled Austin Peanut Butter Crackers, and wanted to make sure you knew these were not safe to eat. Blah blah blah."

Too bad they didn't call before I tried to poison my son.

New Skincare Routine?

I am toying with getting the Olay Professional Pro-X Anti-Aging Starter Protocol.

It contains Age Repair Lotion SPF 30 (day), Eye Restoration Complex (day and night), and Wrinkle Smoothing Cream (night).

Right now, Walgreens has it for $61.99 and there was a $5 coupon in the Sunday paper. The Olay website has a $25 mail-in rebate, and I know I have a Wags giftcard laying around from a script transfer. So I really wouldn't be OOP any....

Makeup Alley reviews are mixed, so I'm torn.

Have any of you tried it?

Chicken Fried

I just got this email from Mr. Sasha, who is lacking in technical skills, which makes this even funnier.

The name of the band that sings the Chicken Fried song is the Zac Brown Band. If you would, download it for me. I need you to make me a mixed CD of my favorite songs for Valentines.




We do like this song, 'cause it reminds us of our hick upbringing, but he's kidding about the mix CD. I think.

Today is Big Girl Bed Day

From Nov 1 through Christmas, The Wild Child didn't slept worth a shit. In addition to not going to bed until close to 10 pm, she would wake up an average of 5-7 times per night. Mr. Sasha and I were exhausted and didn't had a moment to ourselves. I didn't say a whole lot about this on here, because it's just hadn't been something I wanted to unload on you guys.

About a week before Christmas , I was doing some research and read about weighted blankets, which are supposed to help kids with SPD sleep better. I thought, what the hell, I'm desperate and ordering one. I ordered a 7 pound blanket that was 36" X 54" from The Hug Shack.

(photo from The Hug Shack)

It arrived on Christmas Eve and a miracle occurred! Her wakings decreased to 1-2 times per night, which was oh-so-much better. We were still having the issue of getting her to go to sleep in the first place though- 10 pm was still about the norm.

Last week, at the suggestion of Kelly Bee, I asked our OT about trying Melatonin. She said she had quite a few patients on it. I of course checked with my bargain board ladies and got some info on what kind to pick up (liquid). Another miracle! After giving it to her at 8 pm, she was going to sleep at 8:30 without a fight! I also checked with our ped to make sure he was OK with it, and he said if it's helping that much, go for it.

But she's still waking up once a night or so and coming into our bed, stealing my pillow, and jamming her little knees into my back and just generally disrupting my much-needed sleep.

So we think maybe she's rolling around in her crib-converted-to-a-toddler-bed and hitting the sides. So tonight, it's Big Girl Bed time. Mr. Sasha has already picked up the new full-sized mattress and box springs and dropped them off home, ready for us to rearrange her room tonight. All her furniture is tethered to the wall (I'm a super-smart mom!) and so we'll have to undo that and move stuff around to make it fit.

For now, we'll be leaving the mattress/box springs on the floor. I have a beautiful family quilt and a gorgeous pink blanket I've been saving to use on her BGB.

So cross your fingers and toes that tonight goes well!

Absolutely Final: Sasha's Motto

I love Jesus, but I drink a little.

This is my new motto.

Another Giveaway!

How could I forget Another Online Mom's Beauty Giveaway? She had an awesome month of budget-friendly tips, capped off with a fab prize! Go check her out!

Two Giveaways From My Friends

Two of my friends are having fun giveaways this week!

Katy, an IRL friend, is giving away Sentsy goodness!

And Chic Runner, a FIMH, is giving away the book Eat This Not That!

Go and enter!

Question

Coach Sterling Silver Logo Ring

What finger would you wear this on?

More specifically, would you wear it on your pointer finger on your right hand, if you already wore a Nelle and Lizzy Double Ring on your ring finger of that hand? (And only wore your wedding ring on your left hand.)

Sorry for the crazy details, but I really want to know if this would be too much.....

Pinecone Research Referral

The bargain board always freaks out when Pinecone Research opens up membership. Although I don't get a thing from this referral, I wanted to tell you about it because I really like Pinecone. They pay $3 for each survey you answer, and although I can't tell you about the surveys or products I have received, I can say that it's certainly worth your time!

Here's the email I got from them:

Dear SASHA:
**It’s not too late to take advantage of this special opportunity to refer households to apply for membership on the PineCone Research panel.** If you have already assisted with this effort - thank you and please feel free to disregard this email.

PineCone Research continues to grow and we invite you to help! We are offering select members the opportunity to recommend membership to a friend or relative who is NOT a member of their household.

Do you know of households that would like to join the PineCone Research Panel? If so, please FORWARD A COPY of this email to each household you would like to refer so that they may click on the registration link shown below. That household should complete the registration form themselves and submit it. REMEMBER THAT ONLY ONE PERSON PER HOUSEHOLD MAY REGISTER. Multiple registrations of the same Household will void all registrations.

Here is the link to the registration:
http://www.pineconeresearch.com/signup/ds531Referral1.asp

As a member in good standing, you've already seen the benefits of being part of PineCone Research. So please, share the benefits of membership with a friend. Just don't forget, please don't tell them about any of the products that you have seen in our questionnaires or tried in your home. Remember, it's important that your PineCone Research survey and product testing experiences remain confidential.

If your referral has any questions, they can email us at scott@pineconeresearch.com or click on the attached links to learn more about PineCone Research.

http://www1.pineconeresearch.com//about.HTM
http://www1.pineconeresearch.com//policy.htm

While this is not a paid referral program, we genuinely appreciate your help in spreading the word that PINECONE IS GROWING!

Thank you,
Karen Scott
Web site: http://www.pineconeresearch.com

Email: scott@pineconeresearch.com

Good Deal Alert: Walgreen's Revlon Creme Gloss

New Revlon Creme Gloss

Since I often run outside, my lips can get super-chapped this time of year, and my much-loves lipstains don't just work right.

So I was excited to see this new Revlon product offered as one of Walgreen's February Free After Rebate products. (Remember you can submit your rebate request online now- so much easier!)

I picked it up in Wine Anytime yesterday and it's a great color. Very smooth and pigmented. Feels great on my chapped lips. One caveat- it's one of those click-type brush applicators that Stila often uses- and you have to click it a million times to get it started. Seriously. I bet I clicked it 65 times....

There's also a $1 coupon for Revlon cosmetics in both the 10-12-08 and 12-07-08 SS inserts. That would make it a money-maker since Walgreen's will give you the pre-coupon price back! (And choose the Walgreens giftcard option to get an additional 10% back!)

Getcha some.

Trans Design Order

Oh my.... I am officially addicted to nail polish. If I had the time, I think I would be painting them every day!

I wanted to pick up all your suggestions, but I just couldn't! Some of the colors I already had, or at least had a dupe for. Thanks for all your ideas!

Here's what I got for myself:

SECHE-Restore Thinner 0.5oz. (my Seche Vite is too thick and needs to be saved from the trash!)
CND-Cuticle Eraser 0.5oz. 6/pk. (love love love this stuff and am splitting this 6 pack with a friend)
OPI-DS exclusive
OPI-DS couture
OPI-DS reserve
OPI-DS tapestry (I am in love with the DS shades!)
OPI-Queen Of West Web-Erly
OPI-Sweet As Annie-Thing
OPI-Pretty And Privileged (these three are the 90210 colors, had to have these!)
OPI-Yes...I Can-Can! (a friend had this on and it was so pretty!)
OPI-Pink Of Hearts 2 (breast cancer research color)
OPI-She's Golden
OPI-Pearls Night Out (thanks Belle for the suggestion!)
OPI-Coney Island Cotton Candy (thanks Carrie for the suggestion!)
OPI-Los Angeles Latte (wore this to my wedding and am dying to have it again!)

GDA: Sephora free shipping!

Through Feb 2, Sephora is offering free shipping right now with NO MINIMUM PURCHASE!

I'm always making sure I'm at $50 before I order so I can get the free shipping. This typically results in me over-buying (surprise!).

But now, if there is one little lippie you've always wanted.... go for it!

The code is PLAYPRETTY.

I'll be back later, maybe tomorrow, with some of my favorite Sephora purchases.

For now, I'll leave you with my newest fave: the new Too Faced Mood Swing Emotionally Activated Lip Gloss from the Smurfette collection. Love love love this and will be ordering back-ups for sure since it's limited edition.

Getcha some!

Target Find: Rain Boots!

There is a girl here at my office who has the cutest Coach rain boots, and every time it rains or snows and she wears them, I die inside just a little bit inside because I'm not as cool as her.

Everywhere I go, I see Coach boots! The Sashas were at Chick-Fil-A on Wednesday night, and there were three college girls in front of us in line. All three had Coach rain boots- and each girl had a different pair. So cute!

But last night I was at Target and I found the cutest substitute boots for only $25! They are absolutely precious and when I went online to find them to show you, it turns out they have a ton of different styles! Seriously, all girls need a pair of kicky rain boots.

When I showed them to Mr. Sasha when I got home, he was really proud of me that I made a good decision to get the budget-friendly boots rather than the luxury boots.

Getcha some. Target has free shipping on $50 right now. (But don't forget to go through ebates! Referral link on the left.)