Surviving NJ

Keeping it After All

2009-10-09T11:13:00.002-04:00

I went through 2,500 posts these past 2 days, and decided I do want to keep it. It was fun going through it and reading things from 3 years ago! What I did do is clear out some crap that was on it, and adjust a few posts.

On that note...here's to another 3 years!

Too much Crap

2009-10-08T13:30:00.002-04:00

I'm going through some of my older stuff, and sorting through it. I'm on the verge of letting go of this blog...and I guess I hang on because it's been here for 3 years. What is it though...what does it represent, and how will I feel if it's gone?

I'm still deciding that.

My Sister's Store

2009-06-27T12:52:00.002-04:00

Hey! Check out my sisters beaded jewelry designs store! I'm helping her add pieces to the website, and plan on adding a few necklaces this week. She's always had a natural talent when it came to crafting.

Be sure to take a moment and check it out! She makes handmade beaded necklaces, earrings, bracelets and more.

Warm Water - So Healing

2009-06-13T10:07:00.002-04:00

It's amazing what a little warm water can do. My hands have been cramping a lot lately, probably because I log so many hours working on my projects - which means a LOT of typing all day long. Anyway, I was thinking - I'd love to go get a paraffin dip at the spa, because my hands ached.

I thought, gee - it's the warmth I crave mostly, so I went to my kitchen sink and turned on warm to hot water and just left my hands under them for about 1 full minute, not washing or scrubbing them, just letting the warm water fall over my hands....

It's amazing how good they feel. That silly little 1 minute saved me from putting menthol on them to stop the cramping....saved me money from getting a paraffin dip at the spa....and reminded me the best answers are usually simple and right in front of us.

So today, at my kitchen sink - I healed my aching hands in about 1 minute --- until next time, but I know that sink is right there if they start to cramp and ache again.

Quickly Catching Up

2009-06-09T22:08:00.003-04:00

The weather was incredible this weekend. I spent a lot of time wandering about..going out for a drive, shopping, checking out handmade beaded jewelry, sitting outside with the dogs, and just enjoying the warm air in general. The weather has turned though and now it's too gloomy for me this week, so I'll get a lot of work accomplished inside. I'll be focused on a couple new domains. I'm trying to get a lot more work done by the middle of July when I'll be taking a vacation with my son.

I'm getting excited at the prospect of travel, because I spent so many hours in my office working on my projects. Being self-employed, I know I can only rely on myself for advancement. I'm happy with how far it's come, but I still have a long way to go.

I made a large transition during the last 18 months and changed my focus. It was hard to take the risk, but I'm finding it's paying off. I'm working hard now, the final payoff is passive income, which will continue even after I've finished the projects.

Teal for Our Eyes Only

2009-05-13T17:11:00.001-04:00

I'm looking out at a bright teal green ocean today. It's funny how the ocean changes shades and colors. We just took a walk, and in one small section it had a clear appearance, and yet 20 feet over it offered a deeper green color. Three shades within the span of one length of jetty....the ocean has a tropical appearance today.

Am I crazy? Nope, my husband said the same thing...the coloring of the ocean has a unique bright teal look with the sun on it this afternoon. The interesting thing is when I snapped a picture of it earlier, it didn't show up being that same color we're seeing in person-- it's almost a transparency the camera isn't picking up....

I've taken pictures and video, and yet it comes up with a slight variation of the color....I find that amusing, as if the ocean is telling us that if we want to see this shade we're seeing, it's a vision for those standing on the beach.

Lobster Cakes

2009-05-13T08:14:00.002-04:00

I've down the shore for a few days, and I tried something new this week. I had "lobster cakes"....let me explain.

My husband has a love affair with great crab cakes, and there's a little restaurant down in LBI that he says makes about the best crab cakes ever. The place is called "The Lobster Claw".

Here's the thing, I love to watch Diner's, Drive-In's and Dives on Food Network, and no this place wasn't on the show -- though Mustache Bill's was. Anyway, I've watched a few places make crab cakes, and in my head I realize that I would probably like them if there wasn't crab in them! LOL I like the other stuff, the filler and binder they add. Funny, huh?

So when I saw Lobster Cakes on the menu, I thought, hey!!! same thing, only I like lobster. Well-- they were interesting. They had a good flavor, mild (which I like), and I enjoyed them, but what was funny is they had a creamy type of texture. I thought they would be more "lumpy" of sort. Either way, we enjoyed them-- I shared one with hubby so he could check them out, and it was a new experience.

Voila...I had lobster cakes...and yes, while I was looking at the menu, the tv show flashed through my head quickly, which made me think about how they make crab cakes, and then I decided in that instant I might want to try the lobster cakes....it's an exciting life I lead, eh?

Protein Popsicles

2009-04-29T17:18:00.000-04:00

Saw this recipe...forget what magazine, but the credit goes to "Maggie Diubaldo" in the magazine, so I want to credit Maggie here too.

Blend 1 cup of egg whites with 2 scoops of protein powder (chocolate), then pour into Popsicle trays and freeze.

Mmmm, mmmmm...I do protein shakes so this is a nice cold treat for summer I'll be trying out! Thanks Maggie....

Scraps of Paper

2009-04-29T17:16:00.000-04:00

I drive my husband crazy, because when I read magazines, which I read a ton of, I tear out strips of interesting tidbits and information. In my mind, I'm thinking I should pass on this cool information.....but the problem is by the time I remember, I have an entire pile of little scraps I've set aside.

When I finally get around to passing on the info, it's outdated because it's been in my pile of little scraps for too long!

Ha!

Keep Your Pets Safe

2009-04-29T17:10:00.002-04:00

I was reading an article about pet safety, and different things around the house that are dangerous to pets. I never realized lilies are toxic to cats for example. I ripped the article out of the newspaper so I could relay some of these things to you here.

I'm just going to do a brief list of things...If you need more info, there's an Animal Poison Control Center.

Insecticides, some houseplants, antifreeze, pool chemicals, our own human medications, paint, glue, detergents, chocolate, and more.

You also have to watch for over medicating your dog with vet medication. Make sure to keep these things out of reach from your pet. Some of the medications smell like treats so the dogs will eat them...the problem is, if they get into them when you don't intend them to and eat them, they can overdose...

A curious puppy can get into anything, so please use caution.

If you'd like more information about any of these things you can check out: www.ASPCA.org/APCC

Such a Realistic Dream

2009-04-21T08:46:00.001-04:00

Why is it that dreams feel so real?

It's wild isn't it? Now, take in mind I have two boys in their teens. Last night, I had a dream starting at 9 months pregnant and gave birth to another son named Brian Joel. The funniest part is I had a natural, home delivery. I am SO a hospital, I need an epidural girl. Natural childbirth is for other women--- not me. LOL

Anyway, I woke up and was like "what the heck was that?"

It's funny how realistic dreams can be, because I was living it in my mind while I was asleep, but let me tell you- If I ended up pregnant these days in my 40's, (and a woman with my tubes tied), I'd be a little MORE than surprised!

Stressed Out? Me TOO!

2009-03-16T13:14:00.002-04:00

I've had my hands full and I've been stressed out. Seriously, talk about biting off more than you can chew....

I do it often, because I think I work well under stress and pressure, but there are moments I hit a wall and go ENOUGH!

See, when my stress levels get high, anxiety can kick in for me, and that just overwhelms me. Stress I can deal with...but when the anxiety starts? Forget it...I'm a lost cause.

So here are some ways to manage your anxiety, next time you're hitting that wall. I needed to take a major time out this weekend to gather my wits back about me...hopefully a few of these will help you too.

Let me explain something quickly...stress...totally different than anxiety...the anxiety comes on and you get that panic feeling....stress is sort of like chronic, while anxiety is like NOW! This is what happens when I hit that point...my heart is racing, I panic, I don't want to go out, etc...I was going about my business doing just fine...then out of nowhere...I can't move..it's too much...I'm drowning...throw me a line...frozen in my spot, nowhere to go...luckily, once its gone it's gone...anyway, just letting you know I understand.

Often times an extremely stressful situation brings on anxiety as a way of dealing with it.

If you suffer from anxiety attacks on occasion or a more frequent anxiety disorder, there are steps you can take to keep your anxiety under control. Here are tips to add to your lifestyle to help you keep your stress and anxiety under control.

1. If it's out of control....seek help. Self-diagnosis of any type of physical or mental condition is unwise and can be dangerous. A professional psychologist can help you understand your anxiety and prescribe medication or other effective techniques.

2. Get better sleep. During the sleep cycle, your body repairs itself. You feel more rested after several hours of restorative sleep, reaching the REM stage. Most people need eight hours a night which varies within an hour or two each way.

3. Exercise regularly. Exercise can help you focus- which may help you see solutions to problems rather than simply worrying about them.

4. Meditate. Clear your mind...Meditation is more than chanting mantras. Simple mediation such as taking 5 minutes to clear your mind everyday can work wonders in the fight against anxiety.

5. Manage the worry. When you feel your pulse start to quicken, count backwards from ten. As you count, focus on the situation. What has actually happened? Resist the urge to read anything more into the situation.

6. Find a relaxing activity. Stress can rob you of your energy. On a regular basis, do something you like such as gardening, painting, reading or listening to music.

Anxiety can come into your life at any time. It’s normal. When the anxiety becomes frequent you could be at risk for more serious conditions. If you feel your anxiety is starting to take over your life or increasingly causing you problems, seek professional help...I've spoken to my doctor about anxiety and we've found solutions that help me when I reach that point.

Spring has Sprung for the Day

2009-03-07T10:49:00.001-05:00

What a gorgeous day we have! It's got me longing for spring. I always feel all hermit like after winter. I stay inside as much as humanly possible when it's cold. I just loathe things like snow, windy cold days and ice anymore.

I want to head south to sunny Florida, but it's not in our plans quite yet! Maybe one day I can claim to be a snowbird, and make the transition of back and forth between two homes. Oh well, not in the budget THIS year!

Newsletter Writing

2009-02-25T10:56:00.002-05:00

Today, one of the tasks on my list is to finish March's newsletter for my LBI site. If you're a fan of Long Beach Island, and haven't signed up yet, you can find the sign up for on the middle of the homepage at LongBeachIslandSummers.com.

This month, I'll be discussing beach weddings, along with a great idea for Earth Day.

I've also got about 15 articles to write for other sites I have. It's a writing kind of day.

What does your day look like?

Lost in Space or Research?

2009-02-25T10:55:00.001-05:00

Oh my goodness, I spent 7 hours yesterday doing research. While it's good to do it time to time, and I picked up some great information, there's another piece of me that feels like I lost 7 hours.

I truly feel that knowledge that I learn helps me move forward, so it's a good thing, so why does it feel bad? LOL

Weird, huh?

Anyway, I'm back to work and back to writing today!

LBI Video

2009-02-16T05:11:00.002-05:00

Check out my new LBI video!

Not the Reaction I Expected

2009-02-14T08:39:00.001-05:00

I was so excited to tell my son about the summer trip I'd planned. We've been to Orlando many times, but the excursion to the Keys in Florida really excited me. Why do I set myself up like this? You see, I'm like a little kid with joy and excitement, and I want to share that feeling. I tell my son, and he's like, "wait, wait, wait a minute, what about this?"

Sigh...well, I was excited about it. He'll have a great time, but every time I look for that "yeah!" reaction, I don't see it. Oh well...maybe next year. I was just so excited, since I haven't been to the Florida Keys, and I know how pretty and cool it will be. Next time, I'm taking my husband! LOL

Plus Size Dating

2009-02-02T09:34:00.003-05:00

Did I ever tell you that I met my husband online? I met him through a dating website. It's true! I was working full time, and don't drink, so I didn't go to bars, and wasn't sure where to meet men my age. I was in my 30's, divorced, busy, working, have kids, and unless someone was going to flag me down in the grocery store, I had no chance of meeting someone.

Friends offered to set me up with their brothers, but who needs that kind of pressure?

Finally, I decided to try these online dating sites a try. I didn't take it too seriously at first, but then starting meeting really nice people! You know what? They were just like me, busy working, and not a lot of time to meet people.

Then came the day I met my future husband. We started talking, and something just clicked. After 2 weeks, we finally got together in person. That was almost 9 years ago! We dated for 3 years (I have kids, and wanted to go slowly), and have been married for 6 years come May of this year.

He is the most amazing man, and I'm blissfully happy.

The thing about being plus sized, we're well aware in life that we can be judged by our size. Let's face it, men are visual, and I was so nervous to meet face to face. I'd shown him pics, and told him I was carrying extra weight. It didn't matter to him. Now with plus size dating sites, there's no worrying about this factor. Let's face it, that's a nice feeling. You can just go on being yourself, and know that your extra weight is NOT an issue.

Did you know you can join Plus Size Dating for free, and post a picture. In only 2 steps, you'll be able to search profiles and more! What are you waiting for? Your someone special is waiting for you, just like my special someone was waiting for me. There is a cost for membership (details on site), but you can join for free and look around, along with making a profile.

Do Something Good

2009-01-28T23:08:00.003-05:00

One of the people I've met on my online journeys is Hayes Roberts. I found his website awhile back, and loved his artwork. He does cartoon drawings and has a couple of books. He did some work for me, and was someone I turn to when I need a drawing.

Hayes contacted me recently to let me know about a little girl with a brain tumor. Little Anna is being treated for cancer. It's such a sad thing to hear of a child having to deal with illness like this. Anyway, Hayes is trying to help raise donations, and is participating by donating two of his books (signed) to help raise money. "The Weiner Dog Magnet" and "The Pirate Monkey" are the two books he's putting up for auction.

Anna's story is here.

Here's the Anna Ive's Benefit Auction site.

Please pass the word and pass this along, or blog about it as well, so this little girl can get as much help as possible.

Kindly, Deb

What a Day!

2009-01-28T23:02:00.003-05:00

I had quite a day today. First I discovered a problem with 8 of my websites! Yikes, this is going to get messy. I was also in the middle of transferring a website from one server to another, and there was an error. It slowed things up, since I had to wait for support to correct the problem. That's finally fixed, but the 8 sites...well, that's another story that I'm not getting into right now.

Regardless, I've been moving along with my other projects. I've been transferring a travel site, and I'm about 70% done. It was a live site, so it bothered me it was down for 24 hours. I hope to wrap it up tonight. Then I'm going to collapse into my bed and call it a night! By the way, if you're looking for bed frames, be sure to check out TheSleepShop.com. All I know is that when my head hits the pillow tonight, I'll be out cold! I haven't had a stressful day like this in a long while, but it was enough to wear me down!

I was compensated for this post.

Micro Niche Finder

2009-01-28T10:55:00.003-05:00

When you decide to make a new site, what tools do you use? I use Micro Niche Finder to help me find pockets of gold.

Let's look at when you're trying to break into a competitive market:

Suppose you’re trying to get into the credit card market...Discover Card pays $40 for all new card members you send their way. Not too shabby...oh wait, did I mention everyone and their brother is trying to do that?

Sounds good, until you do a Google search for “credit card” and realize there are 56 MILLION sites in the results. Yikes, lots of competition...

Here's a secret...Discover applies a 5% cash back incentive on gas purchases, and if
you do a search for “credit card gas rewards” you get 56 results. Big difference, right? Yup, it means there's a LOT less competition. Easier competition means easier money.

No matter what kind of marketing you do, it stands to reason that if you target overlooked, under-the-radar keyword phrases, you’ll divert more traffic and convert more of that traffic into money.

So, how do you FIND these missed, under-the-radar keyword phrases?

I use a program called Micro Niche Finder, and I LOVE it!

With Micro Niche Finder, you will be able to uncover untapped niche markets and completely rule them in Google.

You can find new keywords related to your base keyword that are more profitable than the keywords you’re using now.

You can rank higher in the search engines, bringing more traffic. You’ll be getting targeted traffic, which means you’ll be converting at a higher rate…which means more money!

More information on Micro Niche Finder

I have an affilate relationship with this product. I get a small commission if you choose to buy this product. It does not change the price on your end, but I receive a small commssion for a referral fee.

We Need a Chair!

2009-01-23T22:29:00.004-05:00

We've been looking at different chairs to replace a chair in my son's room. The thing is, I don't want to spend a fortune on it. It won't be used often, since it's mostly for me. He likes me to come hang out and read my magazines in there while he's playing video games.

We removed an older chair and moved it to the sun room. We have since used a wooden rocking chair, but it's too stiff. I'd like a small wrap around type of chair. I've seen something that I like at a house we rented at the shore. Now I have to find that somewhere where I can buy it! I'm thinking it's an Ikea type of chair, but I can't be certain.

Sunsweet Boosters

2009-01-17T22:22:00.000-05:00

Have you heard of these? Sunsweet Boosters are a new juice that’s being distributed in the New Jersey and New York area. I was given the opportunity to check it out, and tasted 2 of the flavors. I tried the Apple and the Grape, but they have other flavors also. Here’s the thing, it’s not really about the flavors. It’s what’s packed into each bottle of Sunsweet Boosters. Each bottle packs a punch of antioxidants, or maybe calcium. It depends on what type you get.

Here’s the scoop, the juice has added nutrients in them. There are different versions of the boosters, five in all. There’s Antioxidant Booster, Calcium Booster, Fiber Booster, Heart Booster and Immunity Booster.

You can currently find them in local stores like A&P, Superfresh, along with others. I was surprised Whole Foods wasn’t on the list, because they remind me of something I’d find there.

The only issue I see is the pricing. While they contain great nutrients in them, the price for a 16 ounce bottle will set you back between $2.99 and $3.49. A little steep when people are trying to cut back on expenses.

Their website is at SunsweetBoosters.com if you want to check them out.

Dinner's Ready!

2009-01-17T17:47:00.001-05:00

Time to go eat! Baby Jack (our little Jack Russell) is trying to climb up on my lap as I type! The timer went off in the kitchen and he went flying. The dogs recognize the timer and all wait for me to come in when it goes off!

Guess, I'd better go get it! Cheers, chicken and asparagus for us tonight.

PLR Bundles

2009-01-17T17:43:00.002-05:00

There's a new site for you to check out. If you use PLR, you'll want to check out BuyPLRArticles.org. They have bundle packages with articles and ebooks, as well as new PLR, and even bargain bin PLR.

They aren't fully stocked yet, but everything should be in place by Feb. 1st at the latest. In fact, as the weekend progresses, expect to see more stuff go up. It's like a one stop shop for PLR goodies!

How do I know? It's my site! (cheesy grin)