a brother's love is...

To contact us Click HERE

Good Morning,

Here's a very quick story from my youth. As I bent down to set up the BB-gun target, a row of Coke cans, I heard the unmistakeable click, click blat...of the "pump" gun. To this day, it is unclear whether the true bulls-eye was my butt or the bottom of my shoe but as I knelt to do my apprentice duty...I suspected the hee hee hee of my brother's voice was not meant to leave my sweat-panted hiny unscathed.

Perhaps this is why I was so moved this weekend as I looked out my apartment window to see Eric (my brother) bent over clearing a path for me with such meticulous care. It iced-over hard here this weekend. My brother was in town for a business meeting and up early the next morning to make his flight.

I'd gotten up early too to see him off. After hugs and safe travel wishes, no sooner had I turned to tend to Mitty "the treat jonesing" kitty than I heard a little knock on my door. It was Eric! He said, "Hey I just wanted to let you know, it's a sheet of ice out there. Be careful. I just fell."

Surprised, I checked to make sure he was okay then turned on the TV. The winter weather news crew flashed onto the scene and reveled in their morning horror stories.

"It's ICEY out there Bob! I live 30min. from the station and had a 1 1/2 hr. commute this morning!"

only to be out done by the next...

"Yes Carol, as you can see traffic here at I-69 and 435 is crawling. If you don't need to be out this morning stay in, and if you do be sure to leave yourself plenty of extra time!"

Although I would have loved it if he could have stayed, I also did not want my brother to have to extend his travel. Thus, I quickly urged him to be careful (TURN AROUND AND COME BACK if needed...) and advised that he head slowly to the airport right away!

Eric stood there looking concerned. My interpretation?...contemplating how to leave yet still do his duty to care and protect his little sister from hazardous foot steps.

I know! I thought. I have the quick solution to our problem! By my door I have a bag of rock salt. That is, a bag of salt maintenance crews use for spreading on icey sidewalks and walkways.

I handed my brother the bag and a plastic cup and asked that he throw some down...implying quickly as I parroted out the news crew's growing alarm, "You need extra time if headed to the airport!"

(...we had planned for a morning with a leisurely departure time not one of triple drive time and jack knifed semis!!!)

Doo do doo...

I looked out the window proudly at my brother in his smart looking pea coat and nifty running shoes.

Yes, i thought, that's my brother! Look at him putting down that salt for me!

I looked out the window still proud...

See how careful he's being!

I looked out and at the clock concerned...

Now what can be taking so long? Just exactly what is he doing?

This was not the simple maintenance man scatter. There was some sort of systematic planning going on out there. There was bending and stooping almost like a golfer setting up his put. He surveyed and turned and sprinkled...

Desperate to help or understand, I stepped out onto the door mat in my PJs. "Brother!? Brother? Are you done?"

I went back inside. Checking the freezer for more overnight provisions, there is no way I thought this boy's making it to the airport. Luckily, I had food...

Finally, I heard some foot stomping at the door. I can't help but tear up a little when I think of the words that came next. "Well Sister, I made you a path!" My sibling companion who used to shoot BBs at my behind had...cared enough to make me a path! It was the best path every made! It went directly from my door, down the sidewalk, around my neighbor's car and straight to my driver's side car door!

This person who used to bitterly complain about arrival times (a Senior providing car pool service cannot arrive at the early bird Freshman's time!) had seen through to my needs and let the demands of schedules sit to make a way for me to be.

This person who made me use the broom while he got to use the hockey stick...

okay...He indeed made it to the airport in time and is now home. I believe in you and love you Brother.

Happy Tuesday,

Amanda

Tourney Pick'Em Tips

To contact us Click HERE


Good Morning,

If you live in Kansas, there is one thing you are guaranteed this time of year. Wherever you go you are likely to run into random groups of people huddled around a TV looking intent or mildly concerned as they mull over the words to "Rock Chalk Jayhawk!"-a haunting victory chant.

Rooooock chaalk Jaaaaay Haawk...Kaaaay Uuuuuu

The mood and tone of a city is indeed set by the outcome of the madness.

MARCH MADNESS!!!

The NCAA Men's (and Women's!!!) basketball tournament is set to begin this week. I have my sheets of integrity here ready to fill out (aka the "Pick em' Pool" Tournament brackets). Over the years in doing this it has become my theory that knowing the most about sports does not make the best Bracketologist. My Grandma, routinely a top finisher the family pool, relies on a steady viewing schedule and then I think selects based partly on whether or not a team has a cute coach or handsome players.

Since this has proven an effective strategy, I've decided to put away my stat sheets and try a new approach this morning. Amidst the MADNESS an analysis of team nicknames and mascots seems a saner approach.

So...after research and analysis of the 2011 NCAA's 68 teams I've culled together some tips I hope you too will find helpful for filling out your brackets.



10 Tips for Tourney Pick'Ems!...using team mascots

1. Look for Indiana State "The Fighting Teachers" (although currently the Sycamores) to make a long run into the Tournament. As demonstrated by the current political battles in Wisconsin, a cohesive group of Teachers are hard to knock off their committed course...


2. Write this down somewhere handy...next to your sheet.

A Tiger beats a Wildcat (too generic) and a working dog (Huskies, "Reveille" the Collie) beats a domestic non-sporting dog (e.g. Bulldogs or Terriers).

In all there are 11 cat teams, 9 dog teams, 5 bears...and at least 2 rodents. In a cat vs. dog fight go with the cats.

3. Also, a man with a gun beats animal unless it is a grizzly...

4. There are several interesting match-ups in the first round I am excited to see:

"The Commodores" against the Spiders. Here I feel at least one of them, probably Lionel, would step on a spider...or possibly in choreographed dance moves inadvertently squash the spiders.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/In_the_Pocket_(Commodores_album)

The Texas A&M "Aggies" will be clashing with the Florida State Seminoles. I believe FSU after losing in the conference tournament might be ready to beat the "land grant" Aggies over the uppity white mans proliferation of farming.

5. Purdue vs. St. Peter's. A trained craftsman beats a peacock. (You might also report this to PETA)

6. Looking to outwit your friends by nailing the tricky 8-9 seed matchups? No problem. How about out in the West region the #8 seed Wolverines vs. #9 seed Volunteers? A fierce rodent like animal fighting on it's back verses the helpful volunteer. Go with the Wolverines.

7. I have not yet been able to come down with a ruling for battles of mythical creatures so my advice is flip a coin or consult the oracles for contests between, Blue Devils, Pirates, Leprechauns, Redstorms, Bruins and Blaze a Fire Breathing Dragon

8. A Buckeye is a poisonous nut. They are also the #1 overall seed...coincidence? no, pick them!

9. Akron ZIPS!!!!!!! this team will run faster, jump, higher etc. Down side, if they win, it is Akron. Remember "It's gotta be the shoes money!" No MAC team is a good bet.

10. So,...my Final Four Includes a mythical bird (Kansas), a gator (Florida), huskies (U Conn), and dirty feet (North Carolina)? With the overall champions?...

Dirty Feet vs. a Baby Jay?

Dirty Feet.

okay, good luck and Happy Monday,

Amanda

p.s. Zips refers to a particular brand of kids shoe

mitty's resume...need assistance

To contact us Click HERE


Good Morning,

It came to my attention that there was a small hiccup in the system last week OR should I say a mild hairball cough?

Mitty aka Mittens was in charge of the MMN e-mail while I was out of town...but she failed to perform her duty.

So, Mitty has been put on notice! I'm afraid she has become a financial drain on the MMN operation and needs to find outside employment. She has been working on her resume and I ask that you take a moment to read and pass on to any contacts or potential employers. We would be most appreciative.

Sincerely,

Amanda Editor and Chief!!!

*********

Mittens Vallo

Education:
Street

Work Experience:
Monday Morning News dancer, performer, features writer
Published Author- "Mitty's Haiku Corner" a chapbook of original poems

Achievements:
???

Activities & Skills:

effective in kitty massage
type 70+ wpm with 98% errors
operate small machinery (can open cabinet doors with hinges)
excellent people skills

Certification(s)
Completed "Living Well With a Disability" Facilitator Training 5/11

Licensure
Rabies and Feline AIDS Vaccination (current)

Special Interests:

napping
licking ear buds
bird watching

References:

Dr. Andrea Shuster, DVM
Columbus, OH 43212

Susan the Cat Foster Care Lady
Westgate, OH

Juanita Sanchez
Assistant Rooms Manager
Hilton Inn Express
O'Fallon, MO


Okay, Mitty has just asked for her job back...I have a face full of kitty fur and a nose of tuna breath. (Ewwww...) after we address hygiene she's REHIRED!!! This is just the kind of worker we need around here.

Happy Monday,

Amanda

p.s. now she's napping

let's go to the instant replay!

To contact us Click HERE
Good Morning,

I have a very small matter of greeeeat importance this morning! As I was cleaning up my files this morning I came across this...



"Get in the Zone" from the College Basketball Experience...

Think of it this way. I have very bad balance. Every time I go to reload my shot in a rapid fire competition it feels a bit like standing on a water bed. Ol Pistol Pete to my right was a machine!!! Cranking out shots so fast there was a trail of smoke!

I lost this "friendly" competition...25 to 37!!!

My shaky right leg will not go out the loser! Dad may have begged off “arthritis in both hands” but he was soon to be seen disappearing, running off to shoot more free throws! ...and i want a REMATCH!

Happy Monday,

Amanda

p.s. "Look at the scoreboard!" (stomp stomp!) I'm comin' for ya Dad!!! : )

Paddlin'

To contact us Click HERE

Good Morning,

I had the good fortune of taking my maiden voyage in a kayak this weekend on Lone Star Lake. Regardless of ability, I think this is an activity anyone can enjoy. So, I'd like to encourage ALL to try...

5 Reasons to Try Paddling

1. You can adopt an ease to the language not typical of the urban Midwest.

In the West people get stoked...
ya’ll, honeys in the South
you sit and tawk in New Yawk
go "out and aboot" up North

now Midwesterners have somethin’ to do too. Go paddlin! : )

2. With cell phones, we are tuned into each other greater than ever before, physically though it has come at a cost as we so often miss the opportunity to interact with those around us. By choosing to go out in a kayak for a couple hours you are choosing to support friendly face-to-face communication with strangers.

3. People with houses on the lake may come out to great you and on some mornings have even opened up a window and turned up the stereo for all to enjoy (feels very different than when your apartment neighbor decides to do this).

4. If you travel in a pack and someone brings enough snacks, you are basically a party that floats! And...if you like to talk, you have a captive audience! Remember though that the corollary is also true. You are a captive audience! This might not be the best time to share your stories of Sacagawea and goals for Eskimo rolls...



5. The Polynesian navigational system...


In double-hauled canoes, "Papa Mau" and his crew made their way from Hawaii to Tahiti, reading only subtle changes in wind direction, waves, the flight of birds, the course of dolphins, the color of the water...



In no time whatsoever a new kayaker can determine that this unfortunate situation means log jam. : )

Happy Monday,

Amanda

a brother's love is...

To contact us Click HERE

Good Morning,

Here's a very quick story from my youth. As I bent down to set up the BB-gun target, a row of Coke cans, I heard the unmistakeable click, click blat...of the "pump" gun. To this day, it is unclear whether the true bulls-eye was my butt or the bottom of my shoe but as I knelt to do my apprentice duty...I suspected the hee hee hee of my brother's voice was not meant to leave my sweat-panted hiny unscathed.

Perhaps this is why I was so moved this weekend as I looked out my apartment window to see Eric (my brother) bent over clearing a path for me with such meticulous care. It iced-over hard here this weekend. My brother was in town for a business meeting and up early the next morning to make his flight.

I'd gotten up early too to see him off. After hugs and safe travel wishes, no sooner had I turned to tend to Mitty "the treat jonesing" kitty than I heard a little knock on my door. It was Eric! He said, "Hey I just wanted to let you know, it's a sheet of ice out there. Be careful. I just fell."

Surprised, I checked to make sure he was okay then turned on the TV. The winter weather news crew flashed onto the scene and reveled in their morning horror stories.

"It's ICEY out there Bob! I live 30min. from the station and had a 1 1/2 hr. commute this morning!"

only to be out done by the next...

"Yes Carol, as you can see traffic here at I-69 and 435 is crawling. If you don't need to be out this morning stay in, and if you do be sure to leave yourself plenty of extra time!"

Although I would have loved it if he could have stayed, I also did not want my brother to have to extend his travel. Thus, I quickly urged him to be careful (TURN AROUND AND COME BACK if needed...) and advised that he head slowly to the airport right away!

Eric stood there looking concerned. My interpretation?...contemplating how to leave yet still do his duty to care and protect his little sister from hazardous foot steps.

I know! I thought. I have the quick solution to our problem! By my door I have a bag of rock salt. That is, a bag of salt maintenance crews use for spreading on icey sidewalks and walkways.

I handed my brother the bag and a plastic cup and asked that he throw some down...implying quickly as I parroted out the news crew's growing alarm, "You need extra time if headed to the airport!"

(...we had planned for a morning with a leisurely departure time not one of triple drive time and jack knifed semis!!!)

Doo do doo...

I looked out the window proudly at my brother in his smart looking pea coat and nifty running shoes.

Yes, i thought, that's my brother! Look at him putting down that salt for me!

I looked out the window still proud...

See how careful he's being!

I looked out and at the clock concerned...

Now what can be taking so long? Just exactly what is he doing?

This was not the simple maintenance man scatter. There was some sort of systematic planning going on out there. There was bending and stooping almost like a golfer setting up his put. He surveyed and turned and sprinkled...

Desperate to help or understand, I stepped out onto the door mat in my PJs. "Brother!? Brother? Are you done?"

I went back inside. Checking the freezer for more overnight provisions, there is no way I thought this boy's making it to the airport. Luckily, I had food...

Finally, I heard some foot stomping at the door. I can't help but tear up a little when I think of the words that came next. "Well Sister, I made you a path!" My sibling companion who used to shoot BBs at my behind had...cared enough to make me a path! It was the best path every made! It went directly from my door, down the sidewalk, around my neighbor's car and straight to my driver's side car door!

This person who used to bitterly complain about arrival times (a Senior providing car pool service cannot arrive at the early bird Freshman's time!) had seen through to my needs and let the demands of schedules sit to make a way for me to be.

This person who made me use the broom while he got to use the hockey stick...

okay...He indeed made it to the airport in time and is now home. I believe in you and love you Brother.

Happy Tuesday,

Amanda

Tourney Pick'Em Tips

To contact us Click HERE


Good Morning,

If you live in Kansas, there is one thing you are guaranteed this time of year. Wherever you go you are likely to run into random groups of people huddled around a TV looking intent or mildly concerned as they mull over the words to "Rock Chalk Jayhawk!"-a haunting victory chant.

Rooooock chaalk Jaaaaay Haawk...Kaaaay Uuuuuu

The mood and tone of a city is indeed set by the outcome of the madness.

MARCH MADNESS!!!

The NCAA Men's (and Women's!!!) basketball tournament is set to begin this week. I have my sheets of integrity here ready to fill out (aka the "Pick em' Pool" Tournament brackets). Over the years in doing this it has become my theory that knowing the most about sports does not make the best Bracketologist. My Grandma, routinely a top finisher the family pool, relies on a steady viewing schedule and then I think selects based partly on whether or not a team has a cute coach or handsome players.

Since this has proven an effective strategy, I've decided to put away my stat sheets and try a new approach this morning. Amidst the MADNESS an analysis of team nicknames and mascots seems a saner approach.

So...after research and analysis of the 2011 NCAA's 68 teams I've culled together some tips I hope you too will find helpful for filling out your brackets.



10 Tips for Tourney Pick'Ems!...using team mascots

1. Look for Indiana State "The Fighting Teachers" (although currently the Sycamores) to make a long run into the Tournament. As demonstrated by the current political battles in Wisconsin, a cohesive group of Teachers are hard to knock off their committed course...


2. Write this down somewhere handy...next to your sheet.

A Tiger beats a Wildcat (too generic) and a working dog (Huskies, "Reveille" the Collie) beats a domestic non-sporting dog (e.g. Bulldogs or Terriers).

In all there are 11 cat teams, 9 dog teams, 5 bears...and at least 2 rodents. In a cat vs. dog fight go with the cats.

3. Also, a man with a gun beats animal unless it is a grizzly...

4. There are several interesting match-ups in the first round I am excited to see:

"The Commodores" against the Spiders. Here I feel at least one of them, probably Lionel, would step on a spider...or possibly in choreographed dance moves inadvertently squash the spiders.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/In_the_Pocket_(Commodores_album)

The Texas A&M "Aggies" will be clashing with the Florida State Seminoles. I believe FSU after losing in the conference tournament might be ready to beat the "land grant" Aggies over the uppity white mans proliferation of farming.

5. Purdue vs. St. Peter's. A trained craftsman beats a peacock. (You might also report this to PETA)

6. Looking to outwit your friends by nailing the tricky 8-9 seed matchups? No problem. How about out in the West region the #8 seed Wolverines vs. #9 seed Volunteers? A fierce rodent like animal fighting on it's back verses the helpful volunteer. Go with the Wolverines.

7. I have not yet been able to come down with a ruling for battles of mythical creatures so my advice is flip a coin or consult the oracles for contests between, Blue Devils, Pirates, Leprechauns, Redstorms, Bruins and Blaze a Fire Breathing Dragon

8. A Buckeye is a poisonous nut. They are also the #1 overall seed...coincidence? no, pick them!

9. Akron ZIPS!!!!!!! this team will run faster, jump, higher etc. Down side, if they win, it is Akron. Remember "It's gotta be the shoes money!" No MAC team is a good bet.

10. So,...my Final Four Includes a mythical bird (Kansas), a gator (Florida), huskies (U Conn), and dirty feet (North Carolina)? With the overall champions?...

Dirty Feet vs. a Baby Jay?

Dirty Feet.

okay, good luck and Happy Monday,

Amanda

p.s. Zips refers to a particular brand of kids shoe

mitty's resume...need assistance

To contact us Click HERE


Good Morning,

It came to my attention that there was a small hiccup in the system last week OR should I say a mild hairball cough?

Mitty aka Mittens was in charge of the MMN e-mail while I was out of town...but she failed to perform her duty.

So, Mitty has been put on notice! I'm afraid she has become a financial drain on the MMN operation and needs to find outside employment. She has been working on her resume and I ask that you take a moment to read and pass on to any contacts or potential employers. We would be most appreciative.

Sincerely,

Amanda Editor and Chief!!!

*********

Mittens Vallo

Education:
Street

Work Experience:
Monday Morning News dancer, performer, features writer
Published Author- "Mitty's Haiku Corner" a chapbook of original poems

Achievements:
???

Activities & Skills:

effective in kitty massage
type 70+ wpm with 98% errors
operate small machinery (can open cabinet doors with hinges)
excellent people skills

Certification(s)
Completed "Living Well With a Disability" Facilitator Training 5/11

Licensure
Rabies and Feline AIDS Vaccination (current)

Special Interests:

napping
licking ear buds
bird watching

References:

Dr. Andrea Shuster, DVM
Columbus, OH 43212

Susan the Cat Foster Care Lady
Westgate, OH

Juanita Sanchez
Assistant Rooms Manager
Hilton Inn Express
O'Fallon, MO


Okay, Mitty has just asked for her job back...I have a face full of kitty fur and a nose of tuna breath. (Ewwww...) after we address hygiene she's REHIRED!!! This is just the kind of worker we need around here.

Happy Monday,

Amanda

p.s. now she's napping

let's go to the instant replay!

To contact us Click HERE
Good Morning,

I have a very small matter of greeeeat importance this morning! As I was cleaning up my files this morning I came across this...



"Get in the Zone" from the College Basketball Experience...

Think of it this way. I have very bad balance. Every time I go to reload my shot in a rapid fire competition it feels a bit like standing on a water bed. Ol Pistol Pete to my right was a machine!!! Cranking out shots so fast there was a trail of smoke!

I lost this "friendly" competition...25 to 37!!!

My shaky right leg will not go out the loser! Dad may have begged off “arthritis in both hands” but he was soon to be seen disappearing, running off to shoot more free throws! ...and i want a REMATCH!

Happy Monday,

Amanda

p.s. "Look at the scoreboard!" (stomp stomp!) I'm comin' for ya Dad!!! : )

Paddlin'

To contact us Click HERE

Good Morning,

I had the good fortune of taking my maiden voyage in a kayak this weekend on Lone Star Lake. Regardless of ability, I think this is an activity anyone can enjoy. So, I'd like to encourage ALL to try...

5 Reasons to Try Paddling

1. You can adopt an ease to the language not typical of the urban Midwest.

In the West people get stoked...
ya’ll, honeys in the South
you sit and tawk in New Yawk
go "out and aboot" up North

now Midwesterners have somethin’ to do too. Go paddlin! : )

2. With cell phones, we are tuned into each other greater than ever before, physically though it has come at a cost as we so often miss the opportunity to interact with those around us. By choosing to go out in a kayak for a couple hours you are choosing to support friendly face-to-face communication with strangers.

3. People with houses on the lake may come out to great you and on some mornings have even opened up a window and turned up the stereo for all to enjoy (feels very different than when your apartment neighbor decides to do this).

4. If you travel in a pack and someone brings enough snacks, you are basically a party that floats! And...if you like to talk, you have a captive audience! Remember though that the corollary is also true. You are a captive audience! This might not be the best time to share your stories of Sacagawea and goals for Eskimo rolls...



5. The Polynesian navigational system...


In double-hauled canoes, "Papa Mau" and his crew made their way from Hawaii to Tahiti, reading only subtle changes in wind direction, waves, the flight of birds, the course of dolphins, the color of the water...



In no time whatsoever a new kayaker can determine that this unfortunate situation means log jam. : )

Happy Monday,

Amanda

Tourney Pick'Em Tips

To contact us Click HERE


Good Morning,

If you live in Kansas, there is one thing you are guaranteed this time of year. Wherever you go you are likely to run into random groups of people huddled around a TV looking intent or mildly concerned as they mull over the words to "Rock Chalk Jayhawk!"-a haunting victory chant.

Rooooock chaalk Jaaaaay Haawk...Kaaaay Uuuuuu

The mood and tone of a city is indeed set by the outcome of the madness.

MARCH MADNESS!!!

The NCAA Men's (and Women's!!!) basketball tournament is set to begin this week. I have my sheets of integrity here ready to fill out (aka the "Pick em' Pool" Tournament brackets). Over the years in doing this it has become my theory that knowing the most about sports does not make the best Bracketologist. My Grandma, routinely a top finisher the family pool, relies on a steady viewing schedule and then I think selects based partly on whether or not a team has a cute coach or handsome players.

Since this has proven an effective strategy, I've decided to put away my stat sheets and try a new approach this morning. Amidst the MADNESS an analysis of team nicknames and mascots seems a saner approach.

So...after research and analysis of the 2011 NCAA's 68 teams I've culled together some tips I hope you too will find helpful for filling out your brackets.



10 Tips for Tourney Pick'Ems!...using team mascots

1. Look for Indiana State "The Fighting Teachers" (although currently the Sycamores) to make a long run into the Tournament. As demonstrated by the current political battles in Wisconsin, a cohesive group of Teachers are hard to knock off their committed course...


2. Write this down somewhere handy...next to your sheet.

A Tiger beats a Wildcat (too generic) and a working dog (Huskies, "Reveille" the Collie) beats a domestic non-sporting dog (e.g. Bulldogs or Terriers).

In all there are 11 cat teams, 9 dog teams, 5 bears...and at least 2 rodents. In a cat vs. dog fight go with the cats.

3. Also, a man with a gun beats animal unless it is a grizzly...

4. There are several interesting match-ups in the first round I am excited to see:

"The Commodores" against the Spiders. Here I feel at least one of them, probably Lionel, would step on a spider...or possibly in choreographed dance moves inadvertently squash the spiders.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/In_the_Pocket_(Commodores_album)

The Texas A&M "Aggies" will be clashing with the Florida State Seminoles. I believe FSU after losing in the conference tournament might be ready to beat the "land grant" Aggies over the uppity white mans proliferation of farming.

5. Purdue vs. St. Peter's. A trained craftsman beats a peacock. (You might also report this to PETA)

6. Looking to outwit your friends by nailing the tricky 8-9 seed matchups? No problem. How about out in the West region the #8 seed Wolverines vs. #9 seed Volunteers? A fierce rodent like animal fighting on it's back verses the helpful volunteer. Go with the Wolverines.

7. I have not yet been able to come down with a ruling for battles of mythical creatures so my advice is flip a coin or consult the oracles for contests between, Blue Devils, Pirates, Leprechauns, Redstorms, Bruins and Blaze a Fire Breathing Dragon

8. A Buckeye is a poisonous nut. They are also the #1 overall seed...coincidence? no, pick them!

9. Akron ZIPS!!!!!!! this team will run faster, jump, higher etc. Down side, if they win, it is Akron. Remember "It's gotta be the shoes money!" No MAC team is a good bet.

10. So,...my Final Four Includes a mythical bird (Kansas), a gator (Florida), huskies (U Conn), and dirty feet (North Carolina)? With the overall champions?...

Dirty Feet vs. a Baby Jay?

Dirty Feet.

okay, good luck and Happy Monday,

Amanda

p.s. Zips refers to a particular brand of kids shoe

mitty's resume...need assistance

To contact us Click HERE


Good Morning,

It came to my attention that there was a small hiccup in the system last week OR should I say a mild hairball cough?

Mitty aka Mittens was in charge of the MMN e-mail while I was out of town...but she failed to perform her duty.

So, Mitty has been put on notice! I'm afraid she has become a financial drain on the MMN operation and needs to find outside employment. She has been working on her resume and I ask that you take a moment to read and pass on to any contacts or potential employers. We would be most appreciative.

Sincerely,

Amanda Editor and Chief!!!

*********

Mittens Vallo

Education:
Street

Work Experience:
Monday Morning News dancer, performer, features writer
Published Author- "Mitty's Haiku Corner" a chapbook of original poems

Achievements:
???

Activities & Skills:

effective in kitty massage
type 70+ wpm with 98% errors
operate small machinery (can open cabinet doors with hinges)
excellent people skills

Certification(s)
Completed "Living Well With a Disability" Facilitator Training 5/11

Licensure
Rabies and Feline AIDS Vaccination (current)

Special Interests:

napping
licking ear buds
bird watching

References:

Dr. Andrea Shuster, DVM
Columbus, OH 43212

Susan the Cat Foster Care Lady
Westgate, OH

Juanita Sanchez
Assistant Rooms Manager
Hilton Inn Express
O'Fallon, MO


Okay, Mitty has just asked for her job back...I have a face full of kitty fur and a nose of tuna breath. (Ewwww...) after we address hygiene she's REHIRED!!! This is just the kind of worker we need around here.

Happy Monday,

Amanda

p.s. now she's napping

let's go to the instant replay!

To contact us Click HERE
Good Morning,

I have a very small matter of greeeeat importance this morning! As I was cleaning up my files this morning I came across this...



"Get in the Zone" from the College Basketball Experience...

Think of it this way. I have very bad balance. Every time I go to reload my shot in a rapid fire competition it feels a bit like standing on a water bed. Ol Pistol Pete to my right was a machine!!! Cranking out shots so fast there was a trail of smoke!

I lost this "friendly" competition...25 to 37!!!

My shaky right leg will not go out the loser! Dad may have begged off “arthritis in both hands” but he was soon to be seen disappearing, running off to shoot more free throws! ...and i want a REMATCH!

Happy Monday,

Amanda

p.s. "Look at the scoreboard!" (stomp stomp!) I'm comin' for ya Dad!!! : )

Paddlin'

To contact us Click HERE

Good Morning,

I had the good fortune of taking my maiden voyage in a kayak this weekend on Lone Star Lake. Regardless of ability, I think this is an activity anyone can enjoy. So, I'd like to encourage ALL to try...

5 Reasons to Try Paddling

1. You can adopt an ease to the language not typical of the urban Midwest.

In the West people get stoked...
ya’ll, honeys in the South
you sit and tawk in New Yawk
go "out and aboot" up North

now Midwesterners have somethin’ to do too. Go paddlin! : )

2. With cell phones, we are tuned into each other greater than ever before, physically though it has come at a cost as we so often miss the opportunity to interact with those around us. By choosing to go out in a kayak for a couple hours you are choosing to support friendly face-to-face communication with strangers.

3. People with houses on the lake may come out to great you and on some mornings have even opened up a window and turned up the stereo for all to enjoy (feels very different than when your apartment neighbor decides to do this).

4. If you travel in a pack and someone brings enough snacks, you are basically a party that floats! And...if you like to talk, you have a captive audience! Remember though that the corollary is also true. You are a captive audience! This might not be the best time to share your stories of Sacagawea and goals for Eskimo rolls...



5. The Polynesian navigational system...


In double-hauled canoes, "Papa Mau" and his crew made their way from Hawaii to Tahiti, reading only subtle changes in wind direction, waves, the flight of birds, the course of dolphins, the color of the water...



In no time whatsoever a new kayaker can determine that this unfortunate situation means log jam. : )

Happy Monday,

Amanda

Countdown is on...

To contact us Click HERE


As many of you may have noticed, I’m a little bit excited about an upcoming event in the world of international multi-sport competition. Tomorrow begins the 14th Summer Paralympic Games!

What is the Paralympics exactly you say old chap?

By the numbers it is 4,200 athletes from 165 countries competing in 20 sports such as swimming, cycling, wheelchair rugby, and sitting volleyball.

The majority of competitors have physical disabilities that are subject to a classification system to level the playing field. Medals are awarded just like in the parallel event the Olympics and in a similar fashion with all the expectation and drama hearts do get broken.

You may have seen one of the stars of last year’s games competing for South Africa in the Olympics. His name is Oscar Pistorius and he was pretty darn amazing in track and field, a double amputee qualifying for the semifinals of the men’s 400m.



I would encourage you to not stop watching there. Team USA and the other Paralympic athletes will continue to need support. Currently, no U.S. broadcast or cable company has plans to show any live coverage of the events. Your best bet to catch the action is to watch online at www.paralympic.org. You can also find daily video highlights via the US Paralympic YouTube channel.

Since coverage of the games will be hard to find on American television sets. I’ve come up with ways to get in the spirit and what to watch for in the coming days. GO TEAM USA!

Learn the names of some of the athletes. Team USA at the London Olympics had a Destinee Hooker on the women’s volleyball team. Not to be outdone, the Paralympics will have ones to watch for out on the court such as James Stuck (USA) in sitting volleyball. There will also be a Blake Leeper, a medal contender in Track and Field,and Mary Stack hefting up the load in Powerlifting.

Team GB will have a Sarah Storey to tell about in cycling and no lie Sophie Wells riding Pinocchio in the Equestrian competition. Robin Williams may even appear for a spot in 5 on a side football. The Brits James Roe is sure to take home gold in the rowing and my money is on Vicky Widdup to be the spark to rally her teammates in sitting volleyball “Hey, Wid up?!”

Team Australian is bringing a young upstart who hopes to lap the field, Jake Lappin, born Sept. 11, 1992, he competes in Athletics 400m, 800m, and can do push ups without using his legs!

Finally, there’s team Canada, who has an entrant who may or may not appear in a number of events. Richard Peter (Dick Peter?) an all-round athlete competing in tennis, athletics, and unsanctioned at least at this Games event…ball hockey.

After learning some names, you might host a Paralympic party. Push Grandma up to the ping pong table, put a jersey on her and tell her it’s now table tennis. Get Grandpa into the modern games. Just roll him outta bed in a sheet (he's been to ancient Greece!) and let him play some Wii bowling.

No, no, no…

Give your party a theme like “Get in the Game!”

Pick your night. I would suggest Thursday Sept. 6 for the much anticipated Men’s T44 100m final or Friday Sept. 7 for the finals of women’s sitting volleyball. Both events should stream live at www.paralympic.org at 10pm EST.

In the Men’s 100m final, watch to see if “Blade Runner” Oscar Pistorius will maintain his dominance over an up and coming field of competitors that include reigning world champion USA’s Jerome Singleton and his fellow American Blake Leeper. Team GB will also have a star to watch, Jonnie Peacock strutting his stuff after recently having set a world record time.

or

Invite friends and neighbors over, lower the backyard volleyball net and host your own sitting volleyball tournament!

Game on!

Carrying over the competition of the Olympic overall medal count, the expected final will pit longtime rivals USA vs. China. After bringing home the silver in Bejing 2008 and finishing second at the World Championships, Team USA is looking to finally reach the top of the podium and best Team China for the gold.



Okay...

Remember the Paralympic Games will be here tomorrow and ready for viewing at http://www.youtube.com/user/USParalympics1/feed ! These athletes will continue to inspire hope and energize spirits through sport and competition. "Spirit in Motion" is the motto of they pledge. Lend your support and let's keep them rollin'.

2012 Gus Rankings: Week 2

To contact us Click HERE
Welcome to this year's installment of the Gus Rankings! As in years past, we'll be providing our own ranking system for college football; you can find a rundown of the methodology here.

Per the system, it's impossible to generate a ranking after one week of games...so Week 2 is the first ranking of the year.  And Gus opines that the best two teams in the land thus far are...Iowa State and UCLA.  Both have a maximum Week 2 score of 2 points; namely, each team has won both games, and each team that they have defeated has won their other game as well.

And it only took two weeks for Gus to determine the worst team in the country!  The University of Akron comes in at -2 points, the lowest score possible.  In the converse of above, each team that Akron has lost to also lost their other game of the season.

For those interested, the Fighting Justin Rosses (Indiana) come in at a tidy #29, tied with board favorite West Virginia.

You can find the Week 2 rankings here.

2012 Gus Rankings: Week 3

To contact us Click HERE
Week 3 of the Gus Rankings are here.  This week, Gus crowns a new #1-- Stanford, fresh off it's victory over USC.  Stanford's 3 wins come over USC (2 other wins), Duke (1 other win) and San Jose State (1 other win).  Their 4 points lead the other 123 FCS teams.

At the other end of the spectrum, Massachusetts joins Akron at the bottom of the rankings.  Massachusetts is enjoying their first season as a FBS member, and thus their first season in the Gus Rankings.  This year's other first timers are Texas State, Texas-San Antonio and South Alabama.

2012 Gus Rankings: Week 4

To contact us Click HERE
Here are this week's Gus Rankings.  Stanford again leads the pack despite the off week; Notre Dame, Florida, Oregon State and Alabama round out the top 5.  At the other end of the spectrum, Massachusetts holds down the final position with a two point "lead" over Akron, Idaho and New Mexico State.

As we have mostly concluded the non-conference portion of the schedule, it is worthwhile to look at conference rankings.  The following is the average team score within each FBS conference:

1. SEC           1.429
2. Big 12        1.300
3. Pac-12        1.167
4. ACC           0.750
4. Big 10         0.750
6. Big East      0.125
7. WAC          -0.714
8. Sun Belt     -0.800
9. MWC         -1.300
10. MAC        -1.393
11. C-USA     -1.583

Will I be allowed my learner's permit during school hours?

To contact us Click HERE
I like in Pennsylvania and my birthday is today. I failed my permit test and want to take it tomorrow instead of going to school. My parents will let me do this. Will the DMV still issue me my permit if I pass the test? ThanksWill I be allowed my learner's permit during school hours?
im pretty sure the dmv will still give you your permit if you take it during school hoursWill I be allowed my learner's permit during school hours?
The DMV probably doesn't care. But you better have a good excuse to give your school.Will I be allowed my learner's permit during school hours?
yeah they will I took mine during school hours, the DMV has no relation to your school

In San Diego, how long is the DMV line if you don't have an appointment?

To contact us Click HERE
I want to go get my permit. When should I start standing in line? A few minutes before it opens? An hour?In San Diego, how long is the DMV line if you don't have an appointment?
With the layoffs of the employees and reduced hours it may be a bit more time consuming than normal.

You may want to consider having your mail forwarded to the office that you plan to go to.

By the way, you should be old enough to drive straight to the bar and have your first drink when you get out.In San Diego, how long is the DMV line if you don't have an appointment?
usually you can check by phone the wait/go to place where line is not that long for the basic

Ready for RAGBRAI

To contact us Click HERE

My two-wheeled companion, Lexa; Photo by Stephanie Hertel via Instagram

I am so excited. So very, very excited. This has been a crazy, busy summer and after the last couple weeks in June, I am in desperate need of vacation (this may have also been suggested a couple of weeks ago by my boss when I was a bit sassy...). So I am truly looking forward to a week away from the distraction of life and ready to be riding in RAGBRAI. Sometimes it honestly brings tears to my eyes just thinking about memories from last year.

If you haven’t been following along, RAGBRAI stands for Registers Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa. It’s always the last week in July, during the most humid and hot time of year of Iowa. So sure, it’s going to be a scorcher and riding 40-80 miles per day in 110+ degree heat indices doesn’t sound overly pleasant, but it’s truly an awesome experience and I would recommend it to anyone, athlete or not... especially Iowans.

RAGBRAI is a leisure, fun ride across the state. It’s not meant to be a race and it’s best that way. Sometimes I entertain the idea of riding hard in the morning in order to get to the next overnight town around noon to escape most of the high, mid-day sun. But I think that would be missing the point of RAGBRAI. It’s not about speed, it’s about enjoying each pass-through town and all of the activities that it has to offer on the journey. It’s about meeting fellow riders and making new friends along the way.

Early morning riding is by far the best. Everything is peaceful, calm, and beautiful. The landscape is truly breathtaking and moves me to my core... sappy, right? But it's so true and I can't help but feel blessed for the experience in the sunrise hours. The majority of the riders (i.e. those that didn't get a little too tipsy the previous evening) start around 6:00 am, which means you hear hundreds of neighboring riders clicking into their petals, downshifting and in general riding as one. Picture one graceful, giant school of fish. As the day passes, riders start to disperse and there is no longer that continuous group movement of the morning, and honestly, it's probably safer that way. But there is something purely magical about RAGBRAI mornings.

So this coming week, think of me as you’re enjoying your modern amenities. I will miss air conditioning, the internet, and a soft bed the most, but it will be well worth it as I take in the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of Iowa and RAGBRAI via my two-wheeled companion.

Dear Small Town Iowa Restaurants

To contact us Click HERE
Dear Small Town Iowa restaurants-

I love ya. I really do. I am more than proud to call Iowa myhome state and I cherish that I was raised in a small town. But lately youhaven’t been as good to me. When eating out, why must everything include bacon,sausage, or brisket? Or be “smothered” in cheese sauce or gravy? Just the word“smothered” makes me gag a little.
And when I cobble something vegetarian/vegan together, loadit up on veggies don’t give me this iceberg lettuce crap with a couple oftomatoes and less than a proper serving of beans. Substitute all of thatmeaty/cheesy goodness with double (or triple) veggie goodness. Cross my heart, I’llreward you with a large tip in return. Deal?
C’mon, Iowa. I get that meat production is a large industryin the state, but let’s also focus on plant nutrients too, eh? What about seasonal produce from the local farmer selling his crop on the corner? There really is no excuse in the summer and I would hope other patrons would feel the same.

Left hungry and feeling cheated,
Stephanie

Weekday Veg

To contact us Click HERE
Have you heard of Weekday Veg? A family friend recommended the short TED talk to me a couple weeks ago and I finally got around to watching it last night. If I had known it was less than 6 minutes I would’ve squeezed it in sooner! (Read: Watch it now, it doesn’t take long!)


Anyway, Graham Hill briefly covers why he chose to be Weekday Vegetarian including the ethical and economic impacts. While my part-time vegetarianism is motivated by nutrition, the economic factors intrigue me. Many of the comments on the talk berate him for not being full-time veg. I’d say over 70% is definitely a step in the right direction and more power to him for promoting this systematic and obtainable approach!

As far as my dive into the veg-pool... It definitely went by the way-side when I was on RAGBRAI. I decided my body needed the protein for muscle recovery and not enough plant-based protein options were readily available. Prior to RAGBRAI, I noticed I was more fatigued than usual. I think there are several factors that went into this, the extreme heat, cutting out too many good carbs, and a more-than-typical packed schedule. The past two weeks back on the wagon have been fabulous, I feel great and according to my most recent blood donation, my health stats are all in excellent shape. I'm excited to give a vegan restaurant a try tonight with a couple of girlfriends!

Have you ever participated in Meatless Mondays or given up meat all together?

Will I be allowed my learner's permit during school hours?

To contact us Click HERE
I like in Pennsylvania and my birthday is today. I failed my permit test and want to take it tomorrow instead of going to school. My parents will let me do this. Will the DMV still issue me my permit if I pass the test? ThanksWill I be allowed my learner's permit during school hours?
im pretty sure the dmv will still give you your permit if you take it during school hoursWill I be allowed my learner's permit during school hours?
The DMV probably doesn't care. But you better have a good excuse to give your school.Will I be allowed my learner's permit during school hours?
yeah they will I took mine during school hours, the DMV has no relation to your school

In San Diego, how long is the DMV line if you don't have an appointment?

To contact us Click HERE
I want to go get my permit. When should I start standing in line? A few minutes before it opens? An hour?In San Diego, how long is the DMV line if you don't have an appointment?
With the layoffs of the employees and reduced hours it may be a bit more time consuming than normal.

You may want to consider having your mail forwarded to the office that you plan to go to.

By the way, you should be old enough to drive straight to the bar and have your first drink when you get out.In San Diego, how long is the DMV line if you don't have an appointment?
usually you can check by phone the wait/go to place where line is not that long for the basic

Pondering: Yoga

To contact us Click HERE

Yesterday I possibly had my best yoga class ever. I was able to get into shoulder stand and head stand multiple times... well... I at least got my feet off the floor/knees off the elbows multiple times and hung out in mid-air momentarily in both poses. I've always been scared to let myself go farther than firmly planted on the ground and I am finally able to trust my own strength.

Yoga has done wonders for me. Just a couple years ago I remember a co-worker boasting about the benefits yoga and how they had affected his life and I balked at the thought. At the time I thought I was way too Type-A to get any benefit from something like yoga. Boy, was I wrong.

Yoga has given me strength mentally, spiritually, and physically way beyond my expectations. Every class I feel more focused, more mindful, happier and stronger. I cannot express enough how grateful I am for the practice. I'm in a really great place in my life right now and I trace much of that back to yoga. So, lesson of the year: Don't knock it 'til you try it.

Chocolate Basil Cupcakes

To contact us Click HERE
This time of year my basil crop is always out of control and unmanageable. Fresh pasta sauces is usually my go-to to help cull the herb... but the other day I came across the most wonderful of ideas. Chocolate Basil cake. That's right, combine it with the sugary, chocolatey goodness and it's sure to be a delight. I've become rather smitten with baked goods that incorporate unconventional herbs as in these Blueberry Rosemary Scones.


But this time... I can't say I'm nearly as delighted. The cake turned out a bit... chewy, more like brownies and I'm not sure I'm completely sold on the additional basil flavor. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad I tried it out, I'm just not sure it will become a go-to recipe in my house. Those precious summer basil leaves may be better saved for a delicious pesto.

Chocolate Basil Buttercream Cake Recipe
I made a double-batch, which produced 30 cupcakes. I only used 1 cup of packed basil leaves, which I felt was sufficient.

Basil Buttercream Frosting
I was going to use this recipe, but when I saw that it required boiling the basil leaves in milk and then throwing them out, I decided that sounded completely unnecessary, highfalutin, and time-consuming. I went the lazy route and made up this recipe for a bit more basil-punch:

1/2 c butter
1/2 c margarine
4 c powdered sugar
2 Tbsp Almond milk
1/8 c fresh basil leaves

Cream butter and basil in a food processor until basil is thoroughly chopped. Add remaining ingredients slowly.

Fun Fact: Basil, like any other unprocessed, plant-based foods have a high amounts of minerals and nutrients. Throwing away and cooking the basil leaves takes out much of those nutrients. I would say this option is much healthier (ha!).

New Work: Gender Reveal invitations

To contact us Click HERE

I recently added four new designs to the invitation collection for The Gender Reveal Etsy shop. Three new typography-only designs were added plus one football-themed invite just as the season is kicking-off. Check out the full selection here.

Gender Reveal Party Printable Digital Invitation - He or She - $15.00

Gender Reveal Party Printable Digital Invitation - He or She Flourishes - $15

Gender Reveal Party Printable Digital Invitation - Football Gender Show Down - $15.00

 

Style Quiz

To contact us Click HERE

HomeGoods Stylescope Quiz - Urban Funk

When I first started blogging ( over 4 years ago, gasp!) I posted a lot of style quizzes. I think I'm mildly obsessed with them, I just love the minimal amount of input and somehow it comes up with something that fits you (somewhat) accurately. Well, recently I decided to revisit some of the ol' quiz links with the new man in my life (you know, so I could approve/disapprove of his style). Unfortunately many of the original links were broken, removed, defunct. I supposed I expected that of something that I posted so long ago, but needless to say I was bummed.

HomeGoods Stylescope Quiz - Spa Life

So this morning when I came across HomeGoods Stylescope quiz from How About Orange, I was so delighted. The best part? There's only one question! Give it a try and see what you are. I'm Urban Funk with a touch of Spa Life. I'm also rather fond of Modern Metro.

HomeGoods Stylescope Quiz - Modern Metro

Also, I want to note that this quiz and results page has an abundance of links to social media sites. The above images are sized for Facebook cover photos with easy links to do so. You can also follow each respective style's Pinterest board. Brilliant social media links all around. Kudos!

Check it out, what are you?

New Work: Staples Promotional Products 2012 Holiday Idea Book

To contact us Click HERE

It's that time of year... when retailers and those that market to the retail industry start plugging their holiday (Christmas) items. Which means I've been living in a holiday world for the past couple of months. I find this utterly delightful, I get to live the spirit of the season twice each year. You'll hear no complains in that regard from this lady!

I worked on the Art Direction and design for the holiday edition of our trend and idea starting book below. You can check out the 2012 Idea Book here. Again, I worked with the lovely Casey Dobbins as our awesome stylist, check out her new site for more visual candy.

Open publication - Free publishing - More asi

2012 Gus Rankings: Week 2

Welcome to this year's installment of the Gus Rankings! As in years past, we'll be providing our own ranking system for college football; you can find a rundown of the methodology here.

Per the system, it's impossible to generate a ranking after one week of games...so Week 2 is the first ranking of the year.  And Gus opines that the best two teams in the land thus far are...Iowa State and UCLA.  Both have a maximum Week 2 score of 2 points; namely, each team has won both games, and each team that they have defeated has won their other game as well.

And it only took two weeks for Gus to determine the worst team in the country!  The University of Akron comes in at -2 points, the lowest score possible.  In the converse of above, each team that Akron has lost to also lost their other game of the season.

For those interested, the Fighting Justin Rosses (Indiana) come in at a tidy #29, tied with board favorite West Virginia.

You can find the Week 2 rankings here.

2012 Gus Rankings: Week 3

Week 3 of the Gus Rankings are here.  This week, Gus crowns a new #1-- Stanford, fresh off it's victory over USC.  Stanford's 3 wins come over USC (2 other wins), Duke (1 other win) and San Jose State (1 other win).  Their 4 points lead the other 123 FCS teams.

At the other end of the spectrum, Massachusetts joins Akron at the bottom of the rankings.  Massachusetts is enjoying their first season as a FBS member, and thus their first season in the Gus Rankings.  This year's other first timers are Texas State, Texas-San Antonio and South Alabama.

Pondering: Yoga

Yesterday I possibly had my best yoga class ever. I was able to get into shoulder stand and head stand multiple times... well... I at least got my feet off the floor/knees off the elbows multiple times and hung out in mid-air momentarily in both poses. I've always been scared to let myself go farther than firmly planted on the ground and I am finally able to trust my own strength.

Yoga has done wonders for me. Just a couple years ago I remember a co-worker boasting about the benefits yoga and how they had affected his life and I balked at the thought. At the time I thought I was way too Type-A to get any benefit from something like yoga. Boy, was I wrong.

Yoga has given me strength mentally, spiritually, and physically way beyond my expectations. Every class I feel more focused, more mindful, happier and stronger. I cannot express enough how grateful I am for the practice. I'm in a really great place in my life right now and I trace much of that back to yoga. So, lesson of the year: Don't knock it 'til you try it.

Chocolate Basil Cupcakes

This time of year my basil crop is always out of control and unmanageable. Fresh pasta sauces is usually my go-to to help cull the herb... but the other day I came across the most wonderful of ideas. Chocolate Basil cake. That's right, combine it with the sugary, chocolatey goodness and it's sure to be a delight. I've become rather smitten with baked goods that incorporate unconventional herbs as in these Blueberry Rosemary Scones.


But this time... I can't say I'm nearly as delighted. The cake turned out a bit... chewy, more like brownies and I'm not sure I'm completely sold on the additional basil flavor. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad I tried it out, I'm just not sure it will become a go-to recipe in my house. Those precious summer basil leaves may be better saved for a delicious pesto.

Chocolate Basil Buttercream Cake Recipe
I made a double-batch, which produced 30 cupcakes. I only used 1 cup of packed basil leaves, which I felt was sufficient.

Basil Buttercream Frosting
I was going to use this recipe, but when I saw that it required boiling the basil leaves in milk and then throwing them out, I decided that sounded completely unnecessary, highfalutin, and time-consuming. I went the lazy route and made up this recipe for a bit more basil-punch:

1/2 c butter
1/2 c margarine
4 c powdered sugar
2 Tbsp Almond milk
1/8 c fresh basil leaves

Cream butter and basil in a food processor until basil is thoroughly chopped. Add remaining ingredients slowly.

Fun Fact: Basil, like any other unprocessed, plant-based foods have a high amounts of minerals and nutrients. Throwing away and cooking the basil leaves takes out much of those nutrients. I would say this option is much healthier (ha!).

New Work: Gender Reveal invitations

I recently added four new designs to the invitation collection for The Gender Reveal Etsy shop. Three new typography-only designs were added plus one football-themed invite just as the season is kicking-off. Check out the full selection here.

Gender Reveal Party Printable Digital Invitation - He or She - $15.00

Gender Reveal Party Printable Digital Invitation - He or She Flourishes - $15

Gender Reveal Party Printable Digital Invitation - Football Gender Show Down - $15.00

 

Style Quiz

HomeGoods Stylescope Quiz - Urban Funk

When I first started blogging ( over 4 years ago, gasp!) I posted a lot of style quizzes. I think I'm mildly obsessed with them, I just love the minimal amount of input and somehow it comes up with something that fits you (somewhat) accurately. Well, recently I decided to revisit some of the ol' quiz links with the new man in my life (you know, so I could approve/disapprove of his style). Unfortunately many of the original links were broken, removed, defunct. I supposed I expected that of something that I posted so long ago, but needless to say I was bummed.

HomeGoods Stylescope Quiz - Spa Life

So this morning when I came across HomeGoods Stylescope quiz from How About Orange, I was so delighted. The best part? There's only one question! Give it a try and see what you are. I'm Urban Funk with a touch of Spa Life. I'm also rather fond of Modern Metro.

HomeGoods Stylescope Quiz - Modern Metro

Also, I want to note that this quiz and results page has an abundance of links to social media sites. The above images are sized for Facebook cover photos with easy links to do so. You can also follow each respective style's Pinterest board. Brilliant social media links all around. Kudos!

Check it out, what are you?