I am not a feminist. I certainly believe there are some things that men are just naturally better at. These items include carrying heavy boxes and taking out the trash. Not just because I hate to do those things...OK...it is because I hate to do them! That's not the point! Several years ago Burger King aired a series of commercials that so enraged me that I've not eaten there since then- until today. These commercials targeted the male demographic ages 18-34, which at the time happened to be their biggest consumers. I tried to be understanding, but honestly when a company tells me that their food is made for men, I say men can keep their food and they don't need my business! Seriously! If I wanna eat a big fat burger and gain 80 pounds I shouldn't be told I can't simply because I'm a girl! Don't get me wrong, they never told me they wouldn't serve me or anything like that, but I was just disgusted with the company in general after these 'man loving' commercials. That doesn't even mention the fact that every Burger King I had gone into was filthy with horrible customer service. I was willing to over look those things. Then came all the creepy king commercials and those just made me glad I'd already boycotted The King.
This morning, however, a friend and I were out for breakfast and that's where she really wanted to go, so I relented. How things have changed! I had a wonderful chat with the manager on duty, Doris, and she explained to me that Burger King had recently changed hands and were trying to get rid of their chauvinistic image and make the entire atmosphere more friendly. The restaurant was spotless. The food was hot and delicious. The staff were friendly, smiling, and accommodating! I'm not sure that all Burger King's have switched over to this new, wonderful eating place, but here in North Carolina I'm glad to say that I can finally eat at Burger King again! Doris, thank you for allowing me to forgive this company for their previously shoddy ways!
If any of you have boycotted Burger King, I strongly suggest you give them another shot. Things have definitely changed and I'll be going back soon!
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Friday, September 17, 2010
Olay Total Effects Body Wash
Olay has a new body wash out that supposedly is a 7 in 1 advanced anti-aging wash. I can't tell you for sure if this part is true. The 7 anti-aging effects include: Moisturizes, improves elasticity. locks in moisture, brightens dull skin, evens skin tone, smooths rough skin, minimizes the appearance of dry lines.
I have to admit that my experience with this body wash wasn't all I'd hoped for. First, I had trouble getting the wash out of the bottle because it's just too thick. Imagine a cross between a body lotion and body butter. It took quite a bit of water and squeezing to get enough out to try. The second thing I noticed was the horrible stench. You've all been around that guy that puts on more cologne than necessary thinking it'll cover the fact that he hasn't had a bath in a week. Usually he's found in bars or at work (or both if you work at a bar!). Anyway, that's exactly what this body wash smells like. It was nauseating! I was hoping the smell would rinse off but I was so wrong! I ended up having to bathe again just to get a bit of the smell off of me. I do admit that my skin felt soft and silky afterwards.
I don't suggest this body wash to any woman on this planet. I know several men who might enjoy it and to them I say that it's definitely worth a shot. Sorry, Olay, but this girl is not touching this stuff again until improvements are made.
I have to admit that my experience with this body wash wasn't all I'd hoped for. First, I had trouble getting the wash out of the bottle because it's just too thick. Imagine a cross between a body lotion and body butter. It took quite a bit of water and squeezing to get enough out to try. The second thing I noticed was the horrible stench. You've all been around that guy that puts on more cologne than necessary thinking it'll cover the fact that he hasn't had a bath in a week. Usually he's found in bars or at work (or both if you work at a bar!). Anyway, that's exactly what this body wash smells like. It was nauseating! I was hoping the smell would rinse off but I was so wrong! I ended up having to bathe again just to get a bit of the smell off of me. I do admit that my skin felt soft and silky afterwards.
I don't suggest this body wash to any woman on this planet. I know several men who might enjoy it and to them I say that it's definitely worth a shot. Sorry, Olay, but this girl is not touching this stuff again until improvements are made.
Monday, September 13, 2010
From Fear To Love by B. Bryan Post
Bryan Post speaks to parents about the challenges they face when dealing with behaviors that are often present for adopted children. He helps parents understand the impact of early life trauma and the impact of interruptions in the attachment process. In his compassion for parents and children he offers hope and solutions for the challenges families face. Many parents of adopted children express their fear not only for their child's present behaviors, but for what will become of them in the future. Bryan's straightforward, clear-cut approach has created peace and healing for hundreds of families; families who once operated in fear, are now experiencing love. - From the back of the book
Being a single mom of a child with special needs has it's difficulties. I've read mountains of books in search of answer to make things easier for both of us. That's right. I said 'mountains'. That may be a slight exaggeration, but it's slight. I want my child to feel safety and comfort because I love him. I'm not alone in this. Most parents feel that way. When you have a child that has autism, brain damage, rage issues, control issues or trauma, it can be difficult to figure out how to proceed with your child. When you adopt a child, you have no idea exactly what issues you're going to be facing until you face them. Although this book is geared towards parents of adopted children, I strongly urge every single parent to go buy this book. Most of the behaviors described in this book are not only found in adopted children. (I know you know that, Bryan! I'm just sayin!) Not only does this book explore how to handle the issues we have with our children, Bryan goes into detail to explain why these things occur. Through reading this book, we gain a better understanding of how our children work, how we work, and how we can work together to build a stronger family.
I love the way this book is put together. Honestly, it's the best parenting handbook I've seen for someone with a child that has difficult behaviors. Reading it through the first time, you gain a basic understanding for the principles based in the book. It's a lot like being at an inspirational seminar where you have a charismatic man urging you to find your parenting potential and reach it. Bryan is a cross between Emeril and the Shamwow guy. Well, in writing mannerisms he is. Add to that a genuine concern for families and it makes this book just amazing to read through. After the initial read, go back and reread the chapters that pertain to you. Underline behaviors and triggers that you find that are pertinent to your relationship with your child. Even if you aren't into reading, this book is a must have. Each chapter has a section over-viewing the key concepts of that chapter. If you just go through and read those key concepts, you'll gain a new understanding of your relationship with your child.
Again, I know this book is geared towards adopted children and families. If you are thinking of adopting a child, please read this book. If you have adopted a child, please read this book. If you yourself have been adopted, please read this book. If you're a parent and have nothing to do with adoption in any manner, please read this book. A greater understanding of our children and how to handle them can only help.
Being a single mom of a child with special needs has it's difficulties. I've read mountains of books in search of answer to make things easier for both of us. That's right. I said 'mountains'. That may be a slight exaggeration, but it's slight. I want my child to feel safety and comfort because I love him. I'm not alone in this. Most parents feel that way. When you have a child that has autism, brain damage, rage issues, control issues or trauma, it can be difficult to figure out how to proceed with your child. When you adopt a child, you have no idea exactly what issues you're going to be facing until you face them. Although this book is geared towards parents of adopted children, I strongly urge every single parent to go buy this book. Most of the behaviors described in this book are not only found in adopted children. (I know you know that, Bryan! I'm just sayin!) Not only does this book explore how to handle the issues we have with our children, Bryan goes into detail to explain why these things occur. Through reading this book, we gain a better understanding of how our children work, how we work, and how we can work together to build a stronger family.
I love the way this book is put together. Honestly, it's the best parenting handbook I've seen for someone with a child that has difficult behaviors. Reading it through the first time, you gain a basic understanding for the principles based in the book. It's a lot like being at an inspirational seminar where you have a charismatic man urging you to find your parenting potential and reach it. Bryan is a cross between Emeril and the Shamwow guy. Well, in writing mannerisms he is. Add to that a genuine concern for families and it makes this book just amazing to read through. After the initial read, go back and reread the chapters that pertain to you. Underline behaviors and triggers that you find that are pertinent to your relationship with your child. Even if you aren't into reading, this book is a must have. Each chapter has a section over-viewing the key concepts of that chapter. If you just go through and read those key concepts, you'll gain a new understanding of your relationship with your child.
Again, I know this book is geared towards adopted children and families. If you are thinking of adopting a child, please read this book. If you have adopted a child, please read this book. If you yourself have been adopted, please read this book. If you're a parent and have nothing to do with adoption in any manner, please read this book. A greater understanding of our children and how to handle them can only help.
He Blew Her a Kiss by Angie Pechak Printup and Kelley Stewart Dollar
It comes as a brush of the shoulder, a breath, a familiar scent, or perhaps a gentle breeze when everything else is still. These remarkable sensations are all examples of our loved ones communicating to use after they are gone from this life-letting us know they are in a better place, and yet still with us.
He Blew Her a Kiss collects dozens of suc stories of after-death communication, in which husbands, wives, children, grandparents, and others, gently let us know that their spirit lives on. - From the back of the book
This collection is a great idea. It was sparked by the story of Tom and Judy McKelroy and has blossomed from there. Stories are currently being collected for a second book as well as a special 9/11 edition. To submit your own story, go to He Blew Her a Kiss.
I found most of the stories touching, but not heart-wrenching and goose-bumpy as I'd hoped for. A skeptic reading this would suggest that most of the stories are mere coincidence while others must be made up. For someone who's had a brush with the other side, they'd find themselves nodding in accord with each story. The upside for me is that each story in this book is a true tale, from a real person. The downside for me is that the writing could have been just a tad bit more emotional. There's absolutely nothing wrong with it, it just isn't as in depth as I'd like. Each story starts out in such a matter of fact manner that it's difficult to care enough about each person to really get the full effect of their experience. For subsequent books, I'd really like to see each story expanded to twice it's length with a little more detail and heart inserted in each one. Overall, though, this is an elegant read for those who have lost someone and seek a little comfort.
He Blew Her a Kiss collects dozens of suc stories of after-death communication, in which husbands, wives, children, grandparents, and others, gently let us know that their spirit lives on. - From the back of the book
This collection is a great idea. It was sparked by the story of Tom and Judy McKelroy and has blossomed from there. Stories are currently being collected for a second book as well as a special 9/11 edition. To submit your own story, go to He Blew Her a Kiss.
I found most of the stories touching, but not heart-wrenching and goose-bumpy as I'd hoped for. A skeptic reading this would suggest that most of the stories are mere coincidence while others must be made up. For someone who's had a brush with the other side, they'd find themselves nodding in accord with each story. The upside for me is that each story in this book is a true tale, from a real person. The downside for me is that the writing could have been just a tad bit more emotional. There's absolutely nothing wrong with it, it just isn't as in depth as I'd like. Each story starts out in such a matter of fact manner that it's difficult to care enough about each person to really get the full effect of their experience. For subsequent books, I'd really like to see each story expanded to twice it's length with a little more detail and heart inserted in each one. Overall, though, this is an elegant read for those who have lost someone and seek a little comfort.
Hollywood Stories by Stephen Schochet
Who has bigger biceps? Arnold Schwarzenegger or Jesse Ventura? How did Bill Murray get fans to fall in love with him? What did Joe Pesci do that was hero worthy? How tall was Judy Garland? How many children did Dr. Suess have?
These are just a sampling of the questions you'll have answered here! This book is full of anecdotes of movie stars. I was a little surprised at the range. We have everything from Boris Karloff to Jim Carrey. Schochet is a tour guide in Hollywood. He's researched each tale.
I'm impressed with how well organized this book is. There are different chapters for different genres of movies, including a television section. Most of the anecdotes are funny, while some are just fascinating. Reading this book is like going on a Hollywood tour and finding out information about all of your favorite actors and actresses. It doesn't end there though! Get the low down on directors and producers as well.
Though I wouldn't suggest this book as something to just sit down and read through, it's definitely a wonderful coffee table or bathroom book (Sorry Stephen!). The anecdotes are short enough that you can flip through and read one or two at a time. Beware: each one you read will make you want to read more!
These are just a sampling of the questions you'll have answered here! This book is full of anecdotes of movie stars. I was a little surprised at the range. We have everything from Boris Karloff to Jim Carrey. Schochet is a tour guide in Hollywood. He's researched each tale.
I'm impressed with how well organized this book is. There are different chapters for different genres of movies, including a television section. Most of the anecdotes are funny, while some are just fascinating. Reading this book is like going on a Hollywood tour and finding out information about all of your favorite actors and actresses. It doesn't end there though! Get the low down on directors and producers as well.
Though I wouldn't suggest this book as something to just sit down and read through, it's definitely a wonderful coffee table or bathroom book (Sorry Stephen!). The anecdotes are short enough that you can flip through and read one or two at a time. Beware: each one you read will make you want to read more!
Mannie's Diet and Enzyme Formula by Emanuel Barling, Jr., Esq. and Ashley F. Brooks, R.N.
I admit it. I'm a sucker for a book about nutrition and how it affects the body. No, I haven't jumped on the organic bandwagon yet, but I have been debating it. There are so many diseases and illnesses that have been proven to be directly affected by the food choices we make. I'm no health guru, but I do know what makes me feel better and what makes me feel worse. We've all had those times when we've eaten something and realized about an hour later that it was a mistake. OK, enough of my opinions here, let's get on with the book review!
After Mannie and his wife became ill, they started doing their homework. I won't go into all the details of what they've been through or how they came to find their breakthroughs, but you can feel free to investigate yourself. This book is not written after several test trials. Mannie isn't some world famous doctor. What's contained in this book are the truths that Mannie uncovered for himself through what appears to be years of extensive research and self-trials.
First look at the book shows that it's huge. Don't be thwarted by it's size though. One fourth of the book is comprised of food lists and references. The rest of the book deals with different diseases and how they're affected by food, different types of food, enzyme information, Mannie's own personal diet, theories on eating (how much and how often), and interesting anecdotes. The most important part of this book is the plan for figuring out your own personal healthy eating plan. Since each of our bodies is constructed differently, logically foods will react differently with each of us. Mannie shows us how to use an elimination formula to best find the foods that react best with our bodies for ultimate health and healing.
This book is not written for those of you who want to find a few recipes quickly or want a pull-out chart telling you exactly what to do. This is in-depth reading and not for those who are just looking for another fad diet. This isn't a diet, it's a way of life. Each chapter is carefully written with information that needs to be carefully read instead of skimmed. If you're looking for a healthy alternative for a disease or illness, this may be the book you're looking for.
After Mannie and his wife became ill, they started doing their homework. I won't go into all the details of what they've been through or how they came to find their breakthroughs, but you can feel free to investigate yourself. This book is not written after several test trials. Mannie isn't some world famous doctor. What's contained in this book are the truths that Mannie uncovered for himself through what appears to be years of extensive research and self-trials.
First look at the book shows that it's huge. Don't be thwarted by it's size though. One fourth of the book is comprised of food lists and references. The rest of the book deals with different diseases and how they're affected by food, different types of food, enzyme information, Mannie's own personal diet, theories on eating (how much and how often), and interesting anecdotes. The most important part of this book is the plan for figuring out your own personal healthy eating plan. Since each of our bodies is constructed differently, logically foods will react differently with each of us. Mannie shows us how to use an elimination formula to best find the foods that react best with our bodies for ultimate health and healing.
This book is not written for those of you who want to find a few recipes quickly or want a pull-out chart telling you exactly what to do. This is in-depth reading and not for those who are just looking for another fad diet. This isn't a diet, it's a way of life. Each chapter is carefully written with information that needs to be carefully read instead of skimmed. If you're looking for a healthy alternative for a disease or illness, this may be the book you're looking for.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Forgive Yourself by Allie Sager
When the unhappily married, Sammy Logan, is unable to control herself around Connor Simpson, the price for their betrayal will be high. Her conscience will haunt her much like the darker secret for which her husband, Rick, has never forgiven her. In a rush of action, secrets Sammy thought she could control rear their ugly heads and the past strewn with lies and innuendo will see the light of day in a present filled with betrayal and heartache. - From the back of the book
Wow! This is a perfect example of not judging a book by it's cover. Honestly, I've put off reviewing this one as long as possible because the book just looks so boring! Of course, the back doesn't sound boring, but when faced with a plain blue book that simply has a bridge and a cloud on the front, it just doesn't seem that appealing. After reading, I realize the symbolism in the front cover, but honestly the book packaging itself is a turn off. I'm really glad that I forced myself to see past that, as well as the lack of editing, and devour the story inside.
The characters are extremely unlikable. They're not sweet and endearing. They evoke a strong emotional response in the negative. Personally,I didn't like any of them and was reminded of a book I'd read once before where I just couldn't get through the book because I couldn't stand the characters. In this instance, however, I had the pull of the sweet 'other world' to keep me entrenched in the story instead of letting my hatred and rage at the 'live' characters push me away.
The story is staged pretty well. I had an issue with the ending, but I can't really go into that without adding spoilers to my review. I can say that though I wasn't a fan of the ending, I do appreciate the fact that Sager was able to pull it off to the point that I was just a little disappointed instead of being angry and frustrated.
Over all, this was a good read that I just couldn't put down. It's definitely not for the faint of heart, as some of it is quite graphic and the actions of some of the characters are a bit depressing and over the top. It's a fast-paced read that keeps you engrossed throughout. It also has a moral message throughout the book, which is always a plus. It's nice to have an entertaining story that leaves you with a feeling that you've had a new insight.
Wow! This is a perfect example of not judging a book by it's cover. Honestly, I've put off reviewing this one as long as possible because the book just looks so boring! Of course, the back doesn't sound boring, but when faced with a plain blue book that simply has a bridge and a cloud on the front, it just doesn't seem that appealing. After reading, I realize the symbolism in the front cover, but honestly the book packaging itself is a turn off. I'm really glad that I forced myself to see past that, as well as the lack of editing, and devour the story inside.
The characters are extremely unlikable. They're not sweet and endearing. They evoke a strong emotional response in the negative. Personally,I didn't like any of them and was reminded of a book I'd read once before where I just couldn't get through the book because I couldn't stand the characters. In this instance, however, I had the pull of the sweet 'other world' to keep me entrenched in the story instead of letting my hatred and rage at the 'live' characters push me away.
The story is staged pretty well. I had an issue with the ending, but I can't really go into that without adding spoilers to my review. I can say that though I wasn't a fan of the ending, I do appreciate the fact that Sager was able to pull it off to the point that I was just a little disappointed instead of being angry and frustrated.
Over all, this was a good read that I just couldn't put down. It's definitely not for the faint of heart, as some of it is quite graphic and the actions of some of the characters are a bit depressing and over the top. It's a fast-paced read that keeps you engrossed throughout. It also has a moral message throughout the book, which is always a plus. It's nice to have an entertaining story that leaves you with a feeling that you've had a new insight.
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