Free Survey Lists and More

Testing New Producst for the Fun of It.

2009-01-28T19:26:00.000-08:00

Why don't I ever get survey invitations that offer testing on linens like Sferra? I'm always receiving invitations for food and drinks, for cleansing products and even political issues. After a while, that kind of stuff gets boring. Yes, I'm glad that I am giving my opinion to curb creation of new products on the market. However, I really want to test comfort levels on beds and lighting fixtures and bed sheets or comforters. Ooooo!!! Wouldn't that be nice! Don't you think so?

What would be your favorite product to test, or one of your favorites? How about an iPod or some other electronic gadget. I'm sure there are survey companies that offer test products on these kinds of things. I remember running across survey lists that talked about this, but now I'm going to have to look for them. It's not for the money, but more for the fun of testing new products. Ultimately, that's why I've continued to do this.

Dieting Goals...Argh!!!

2009-01-28T18:48:00.000-08:00

Now that we're in a new year and under a new administration, oh, and now expecting a new "bailout" to happen, I imagine you have also thought about dieting and diet supplements. I know I have. I am looking forward to my brother coming down in a few months and what can I say that I haven't already said. I have a new diet goal.

I know this is a blog where I talk about current surveys that I've done or even about companies that I think you should work with, but that's not really on my mind right now. I'm looking at my scale going up instead of down and that's so disheartening that I've decided that I'm going to stay away from the scale for a while. I am definitely looking to how my clothes fit as an indicator on whether I'm doing better or not. What are you doing?

Surveys vs. Blogging vs. E-commerce

2009-01-23T19:14:00.000-08:00

I have a serious confession to make. I'm sure if you've followed this blog, you've noticed that I talk less and less about completing surveys and more and more about building your own website. Well, my confession is that I have changed my business strategy and have taken survey taking practically off of my list of ways to make money. I still work with about four companies and get invites from umpteen survey companies, but in reality, this is not my primary way to make money.

Survey taking for me has become like taking cheap diet pills. Once they're done, I hope I don't have to take them again. You know what I mean? I use to spend so much time answering survey questionnaires until I was dreaming survey questions in my sleep. At the end of the day, I had little to show for my time.

That's not to say that others haven't found a way to make it work for them. It just isn't working for me. That's why I'm just keeping it as a small portion of my multiple income stream. Last year I think I made about $100 taking surveys. That's it. Now, $100 is good since it helped pay for little things I wouldn't have purchased without that money.

On the other hand, $100 is not nearly enough to pay bills. I had to find a way to make more. How did I do that? Blogging and Building Websites that sell. E-commerce. Drop Shipping. If you don't know what those words mean or what they entail. I suggest you look seriously into doing this.

You will need a little bit of HTML knowledge and Search Engine Optimization skills to get started. It won't happen over night. I am not going to lie. However, it does work. It has been helping me keep my family afloat. I don't know how long this will last or how long I will be able to maintain my current income stream, but I have been blessed and I know if you learn how to build an e-commerce website, you will benefit too.

Hire Help and Don't Look Back!

2009-01-04T04:28:00.000-08:00

I love having an online business, but this last quarter was such a bear that instead of thinking about hiring more people to help me, I was thinking about doing one of those small business for sale signs and getting out of the rat race altogether. It was WOW! I just can't come up with the words to describe it. I'm not happy that I haven't seen many sales come through the last few days, but I did ask for a break, and boy was it much needed. What's the point?

Well, as you know if you've been reading this blog, I think creating an online store or online business is the way to go. It has helped me over the last three years and it can help you too. However, once things really start getting busy, what should you do? How should you handle the crunch? Should you try to handle everything yourself? I can guarantee you from experience that that is not the way to go. Think about it ahead of time. See who you would hire, family, friends, someone you know and trust that can help you. Then when the time comes and you need help, you're not struggling all by yourself. Right?

I know I'm right, now I just have to implement my business strategy.

Taxes, Insurance and Spring Cleaning

2009-01-04T04:02:00.000-08:00

While I was busy looking to finalize my quarterly taxes for the year and checking out term life insurance here along with thinking about whether I should start adding a new benefit to having my own company by providing myself with health insurance instead of remaining under my husband's policy, survey companies continued to send me invitations to complete surveys. One such company is Mindfield Online.

I have been paid by this company in the past, but there surveys are long and drawn out, so I haven't completed any of their surveys lately. How do you find Mindfield Online? I'm actually thinking of nixing them from my list. It's not that they are not a good company to work for or anything like that. I just don't have as much time as I used to have.

Although winter recently started and spring is still a ways off, I find that with this new year, I want to start spring cleaning early. This year, when I start spring cleaning, I'm going to start with my computer first. I'm thinking of going through all of my old emails and just getting rid the ones I don't need. Actually, to make it easier, I can just transfer them all to an external drive just to have them, just in case.

Do you have any New Years resolutions or starts that you plan to make?

Burn After Reading

2008-12-28T18:18:00.000-08:00

Have you noticed all of the snow lately from West to East? I wouldn't be surprised with all of the snow you've had lately that you might need a
Seattle injury lawyer. Well, I found this website called washingtoninjury.com. They seem to have good information about lawyers in Washington.

Have you seen that movie with Brad Pitt, George Clooney and John Malcovich called Burn After Reading or something like that. The movie is actually pretty entertaining. I don't like the F-word that they use often, actually, almost too much, but apart from that it's not too bad a movie. Another thing I don't too much like is all of the screwing around people are doing on their wives/husbands. It's crazy, but it seems that this is the world we live in and that a movie can't be good without some of that junk in it.

There are some serious issues with people cheating on their spouses in this day and age. Anyway, Brad is too corny in this movie and George Clooney, well, what can I say about him. He's a jerk in this movie.

Frances McDormand is also in this movie. She's kind of pitiful, but a little ruthless too. She wants to get plastic surgery really badly and doesn't care who she steps on to get the money for it. Brad Pitt is her friend in this. I'm not sure where this is going to go, but I'm still interested, so we'll see.

Pinecone Research is Still Looking

2008-12-22T07:47:00.000-08:00

I received an email at the end of last week from Pinecone Research. They are still searching for survey takers, so if you're interested, comment at the end of this post and I can get you the link. It's only live for so long and they are an elusive company to join, but when you do, you won't be disappointed. They did have a decrease in their pay per survey from $5 to $3, but they do give you a chance to win sweepstakes on top of the $3, so I guess that is some concession.

I haven't received surveys where your diet is affected per se, like health related products such as Leptovox. I do get lots of surveys dealing with food. Lately, I've been getting surveys that involve my children. Those are pretty fun, because you get to know what your children really think about what they are eating.

Anyway, if you're interested, hurry up and send me a comment. I'll try to get a response out to you right away.

Mamma Mia - WOW!

2008-12-21T15:03:00.000-08:00

After writing in anther blog about possibly visiting las vegas nv, I thought about exotic places I'd love to see like Greece. By the way, have you seen Mamma Mia? I had no idea that Glen Close could sing like that. I mean she's a great actress, but she has such a depth to her abilities. Anyway, I think that if you like movies where there is a lot of singing, you just have to see this. It's almost as good as being on Broadway!

There is this beautiful song that I just love where the daughter and the mom are preparing for the daughter's wedding. The phrase that stuck me most was this one:

"Sometimes I wish that that I could freeze the picture and save it from the funny tricks of time."

and then of course, there's the song where she's singing with Sam, the character who is one of the possible father's of the daughter, about the winner taking it all and the loser standing tall...

This is really a great movie and touched some really deep parts of my memories. Sniff! O.K. I just had to tell you about that.

Car Insurance Survey

2008-12-07T18:35:00.000-08:00

Insurance has to be on everyone's mind these days. I can't wait to see what the new administration is going to accomplish in regard to health insurance. Just as importantly, car insurance is something that we all think about too. So here's a survey for you that I'd like to get your answers to since I have been pretty happy with my car insurance company for many years.

1. Which is your favorite car insurance provider?
a. Statefarm
b. Allstate
c. Geico
d. Nationwide
e. Prudential

2. Would you leave your current insurance company if you were offered a better rate for comparable service?
a. Yes
b. No, absolutely not. My current company deserves my loyalty.
c. Maybe, if I knew other's who felt very comfortable with the new company.

My answers are:
1. Statefarm
2. No, absolutely not. My current company deserves my loyalty.

I wonder what the rest of you would say. Comment below. I'd love to hear from you.

Strange Emails in my Inbox

2008-12-03T19:05:00.000-08:00

I've been receiving some strange invitations in my inbox from survey companies I am unfamiliar with. I know that I put myself out there to complete surveys by signing up to many many survey companies, so it's not surprising when I get phone calls to complete questionnaires about tv furniture or my favorite restaurant or even emails from those companies who I agreed to work with.

However, I have decided that if I am unfamiliar with the company and how they obtained my information, I'm not going to complete the surveys. What if they are disguised identity theft people, you know! Even though the information I usually provide isn't too personal in nature, it's still enough of an intimacy that I'd just rather not take a chance. What do you think?

Your Favorite Diet Survey

2008-11-20T05:59:00.000-08:00

Many of you are thinking about holiday cooking coming up next week. You might have even put dieting on the back burner until after the holidays. On the other hand, others of you I'm sure won't stop dieting until the day of the big meal. My last post discussed possibly taking a survey on diet pills, but I'd be more willing to take a survey on your favorite diet, wouldn't you?

People come up with all kinds of ways to lose weight, but many of them just don't do the job. I'm sure you've heard of the onion diet, the cabbage diet, the grape diet and oh, the bean diet. I've tried two out of those four. I've also tried name brand diets like the South Beach diet, the Atkins diet and some semblance of Weight Watchers. Those worked, but temporarily since I didn't stick to them. My favorite diet by far is the Fit for Life diet since it's more like a lifestyle change and it's concepts have worked for me. What about you? What is your favorite diet?

Diet Pills Survey

2008-11-20T05:54:00.000-08:00

Have you been invited to complete a survey on the best diet pill? I haven't, but I'm sure that would be an interesting survey. I personally feel afraid to take diet pills. The last time I did that was at least fifteen years ago and I remember clearly that I tried Dexatrim. I think that's how you spell it. I remember that it didn't do anything for me. I remember thinking it felt like I was taking some pseudo form of diet pill, like a sugar pill. It was so little and tasted sweet.

I did end up losing weight, but I exercised and ate more healthy. Now I'm back to where I was all of those years ago, needing to lose weight and bummed out about it. I've been tempted a time or two to take something to help move things along, but I just don't dare. Oh well. Maybe testing diet pills isn't such a good idea. I'll leave it to the people who are willing to try anything. Are you that type of person?

I Didn't Get the New Watch or Purse

2008-11-20T05:50:00.000-08:00

In my last blog I hinted that I'd like a new watch or purse, but woe is me. I didn't get either one. I thought about going to Walmart and buying both for myself, but times are hard and money is tight. I know I'm not the only one in that boat. I've been using my credit cards for necessities instead of wants and that's a bummer. I have to reign myself in when it comes to spending since I'm so use to having just enough. Lately though, that's just not the case. I hope things turn around for us soon. I'm paying for my early overspending days now. I wish I didn't buy that new T.V. this past summer. I still owe money on it. :-(

Wish List - FreeSurveyLists.com

2008-11-16T03:56:00.000-08:00

It's holiday time again and survey invites in my inbox are in full swing. At this time of year companies are very interested in what consumers want, so it's not surprising. I would say that trying out new products is the most fun when it comes to taking surveys, but I won't complain about accepting money for the trial either. It's o.k. to get new products, but money talks more.

I'd like to try one of these Festina watches. In fact, being a stay at home mom, I haven't been tied to watches as much as when I used to work a 9-5ver, but lately, ever since my kid started going to school, it has become more important to wear a watch again. I've been relying on my cell phone. I have a few watches at the bottom of a drawer somewhere, but they all need new batteries. Actually though, it would be less expensive to just get a new battery instead of a new watch, but where's the fun in that?

I need a new purse too. Alright, that's not my wish list per se, but if someone's reading, yeah, I could use a new watch and then a new purse. :-)

Pinecone Research - Still the Best!

2008-11-15T04:25:00.000-08:00

I just finished my first survey for Pinecone Research under their new payment plan of $3 per survey and an entry into their sweepstakes. I'm almost positive I won't win anything, but they are still one of the best in terms of quickly paying their survey takers. The survey was typical at about 20 minutes long and was engaging enough to keep me going. I hope you have this same experience. I would have preferred the $5 in lieu of the sweepstakes entry, but the economy the way it is, I guess I'll take the $3.

Daylight Savings Time

2008-11-02T04:39:00.000-08:00

I have completed surveys on just about everything but the kitchen sinks, but do you know that something as interesting as Daylight Savings Time has never come up in my Inbox? That would be an interesting survey. I live in Florida, so we do change the clocks back in the Fall. In fact, that day happens to be today.

However, I recently read an article that said that Florida is planning on nixing the whole thing. A doctor in the article mentioned that it was not healthy for people to go back and forth with time changes and that it causes something similar to jet lag. The doctor mentioned that it takes at least 7 days to get use to the new time.

On the other hand, I've read many more articles that said that there are less heart issues during this time change since people are forced to rest more. What would you say if you were asked whether Daylight Savings Time is a good thing?

It's Cold, but Not Cold Enough

2008-10-25T17:45:00.000-07:00

As you might know, I'm on vacation. I came to the north expecting cold weather, but it wasn't all that cold. I was thinking I'd maybe see some snow...actually, I was hoping to see snow, but that was wishful thinking. I didn't see any snowmobile exhaust while up here and tomorrow I'm leaving, so I guess I'll have to make it a point to come up north next year during the snow days to get some snow sports in. Oh well, it was cold, but not cold enough. Wouldn't it be the bomb to see some surveys that allow you to test sports products, like speedboats or snow mobiles...Ooooo!

Doing a Survey on Baby Strollers

2008-10-24T05:18:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had to complete a survey on baby strollers? I've received test products for pampers, baby soap, even baby pictures, but never for a stroller. I'd love to test a product like that. My daughter is still using her stroller and it is so easy to navigate. I can't stand those $10-$20 strollers that make your back break from having to hunch down to push them. They were convenient when the kids weren't that heavy, but I prefer a much more ergonomic approach to strolling around with my little girl.

I'm 5'4", not too tall, so the one most important thing I'd look for if I needed a new stroller would be the way my back feels when I'm walking. If I have to hunch over just a little bit, then it's not good for me or my back. The heavier the kids get, the harder it is to push them. Lately, I've been walking a lot, so I've been using a stroller more regularly. If the stroller is high up so that I don't have to hunch over, it is so much easier to push and less distracting to other muscles that need my concentration while I'm walking. My little girl's stroller looks something like this Chicco Cortina Keyfit 30 Travel System. I actually found it while I was throwing garbage out. Some mom must have finished using it and just put it out near the dumpster where I live. It was practically new, so I felt pretty blessed. I don't know what it costs. Do you see how high up it looks like it is?

Anyway, what would be your favorite baby product to test out if you were to have a choice?

Pinecone Research is Looking For Members

2008-10-20T17:36:00.000-07:00

Pinecone Research is looking for members again. If you know of anyone looking to be a member, here's what I received via email today:

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

Comment below with your contact info and I will get you the link. These live links don't last very long, so be sure to contact me if you are not a member and if no one in your household is a member.

Ready for Health Insurance

2008-10-19T04:49:00.001-07:00

I have made great strides in my online business so that I believe I'm ready to obtain my own health insurance covered through my own company. I believe that in the long run, it will be more cost effective for my family and even better for me. For example, I'm sure that I am paying for stuff in my insurance policy that I don't even need. Is there a way to pick and choose one's coverage requirements.

Another thing is that there are so many companies selling insurance that I'm unsure where to get a good health insurance quote from. On top of that, I was wondering how the next election would effect my health policy quote. I'm anxious to see how this all resonates with the insurance companies. I'd love to get better insurance for less. Wouldn't you?

Pinecone Research Confirms Change

2008-10-04T19:59:00.001-07:00

I'm still on hiatus from my survey taking days. I've done a few surveys here and there, but nothing to make money on. A recent novelty in the survey taking industry is that Pinecone Research has officially turned over to their new $3.00 surveys with sweepstakes entry. I wonder if the surveys are going to be similar or if they're going to be a little different now that they aren't compensating as much.

I'd really like to be able to try products like Ju Ju Be purses and clothes and stuff like that. I've only had those types of opportunities with my blogging jobs. I've reviewed cd's, wine, and even clothes. I've had opportunities to review jewelry as well. So, if you're not taking surveys, don't rule out blogging for cash. It's definitely brought in a consistent income for me.

NFO MySurvey.com

2008-09-30T17:33:00.000-07:00

As I said in my previous blog, I've been having trouble taking time out of my crazy schedule to complete surveys. That's why, when I received an email from NFO MySurvey asking what's going on, I was not surprised. The email was in the form of an invitation to complete a survey discussing why I may or many not be interested in continuing with NFO MySurvey.

Of course, they've been one of my best paying survey companies, so I completed that survey right away. I assured them that I was interested in continuing to receive surveys, but that my schedule and lifestyle have changed somewhat, so I can't promise that I'd complete every invite.

They have this linear motion way of sending surveys. I receive so many opportunities from them that I just can't complete them all. They take no more than 20 minutes or so, but it's just hard to take out that kind of time when I need it for so many other things.

Anyway, I'll keep trying.

Completing Surveys Downard Trend

2008-09-30T17:22:00.001-07:00

I haven't been completing many surveys lately, especially since I've been kind of busy with our online businesses. On top of that, I've been focusing on a weight loss goal of late too. I've lost 19 pounds and am working on losing more. In fact, I just have to share.

I have completely revamped my eating habits. I mainly eat fruits, vegetables and nuts and try to stay away from restaurants with tasty appetizers like yummy breads, fried shrimp, mozarella cheese sticks...O.K. I'll change the subject on that. But, truly, I'm so proud of the steps I've been able to take to change my health and my life and I'm looking forward to making even larger strides in a healthier lifestyle.

And so, that's the deal. I'm not completely done with completing surveys, but I do have lots on my plate.

Feeling Sick and Still Blogging, LOL!

2008-09-28T15:27:00.000-07:00

My children have been sick with colds for the past week and I think I'm coming down with it. I tried all I could to avoid the inevitable, but I guess no amount of washing my hands and eating lots of oranges did the trick. I think I just need to sit and dream of going to Brazil, maybe Rio de Janeiro. Yeah! I'm going to dream I have one of those all expense paid Brazil vacation packages that can do the "Calgon, Take me Away" feeling for me. LOL!

Oh well, one can dream. I'd really like to just curl up with a good book and some hot chocolate. Oh boy! When you start dreaming, you can't stop yourself!

Well, as I said, I'm just going to go relax and maybe watch a good movie and fall asleep. I'll blog another time.

Completing Surveys - DSL or Dial Up

2008-09-27T07:14:00.000-07:00

I've been completing surveys for several years now and have only had DSL since I started. However, I know there are some areas where DSL is still not available and wondered what those of you who have dial up experience when going from question to question. Does it take you a long time to go from page to page. One of the reasons I've done less surveys is because I feel the time spent and the compensation don't justify.

However, every now and then, just for the fun of it, I do complete a survey or two and I do get paid, especially if I get a Pinecone Research survey or MySurvey.com survey. I have awesome DSL service, so it doesn't take long at all to get from page to page. Also, when pictures are included in the surveys, which happens often, I have no problem viewing the pictures.

In fact, I've even heard that getting the right cabling, like CAT6 cable, could have a lot to do with the quality and performance of your DSL connection. I've also heard that about HD TV too, but that's another story.

Well, I'd love to hear your stories about Dial Up if that's what you use.

Government's Bailout - Free Money?

2008-09-22T05:21:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you've heard that the Good Ol' USA is coming to the aid of its struggling citizens by infusing a humongous amount of cash into the economy. From my understanding, the idea is to bring the economic downfall to a halt and actually balance it out a little. Do you think that this is a good thing?

For big name economists, it would seem so. The stock market did much better on Friday and I'm sure online trading had a hand in that. Just about everything we do online for money has an impact on the economy. Have you thought about starting your own online business lately? If not, you should.

But, I digress, where is the government getting these billions of dollars from? I'm sure it has been said in some part of the news that I missed, but is this free money or taxpayer money? Well, I can't wait to see how much this cash infusion will boost this shaky economy. The holiday season is approaching too, so I guess this is as good a time as any. Big spending usually happens in the 4th quarter of every year. On top of that, a new president is going to be voted into office.

Big stuff going on, BIG STUFF!

What Else is there Besides Surveys?

2008-09-18T19:00:00.000-07:00

How important is your time? When I first started completing surveys for a little cash, I found that I would spend hours doing this for pittance. Then I started blogging and realized that I could make so much more and do so much more with my time. Finally, I came across creating websites and selling stuff online. I started trying to work with eBay, but I didn't do too well to that.

Then came a life changing event. I went to a seminar that discussed creating an online store. It took so long. It too lots of hard work. I didn't have any time for Vegas vacations or any vacations for that matter. It was long, strenuous work, but it has paid off so much. I don't know where I'll go from here, but I stress that you consider finding out how to sell online.

Homeowners Insurance - Just In Time!

2008-09-05T20:13:00.000-07:00

With all of the hurricanes hitting the Atlantic Sea Basin, I am so glad that I took care of that large bill that had been looming over me last month. My homeowner's insurance is paid in full and ready for just about anything that a hurricane would throw my way. Speaking of insurance, have you been watching the Democratic and Republican conventions? Who hasn't?

Well, one thing I am rather interested in is health care insurance. Obama mentioned the possibility of tax payers benefiting from the same health insurance coverage that Congress receives. What kind of insurance is that? Must be pretty good, huh! I wonder if they will also extend to the people term life insurance and other types of insurance that will benefit families in the long run.

Whatever happens, I am sure we will all get by as we usually do. I was just telling my husband today that the answer to all of our problems is clearly Biblical. Still, I wonder what November is going to bring.

Changes to Pinecone Research

2008-08-31T17:07:00.000-07:00

I just recently finished a profile survey from Pinecone Research asking if I would be willing to continue working for them even though they are making a big change to their method of paying their members. Very soon, they will be starting a more common way of paying survey takers through sweepstakes offers. That's not to say that you won't be getting cash for your time either. You will be paid $3.00 per survey instead of $5.00 and then entered into a sweepstakes pool where you may or may not be chosen for the larger prize.

I have to say that I'd rather enter into a chance game to go to one of those fancy reno hotels than to be entered into a sweepstakes pool. They are not my favorite means for gaining an income or adding to my multiple income stream. It's a pure chance outcome that I'm not sure I can sacrifice my time for. I guess this is a way to weed out those who are taking surveys for the cash payment from those who just simply enjoy taking surveys for the fun of it. Either way, I'm going to try it to see if I'm willing to continue working with Pinecone. Their surveys are time consuming, but not too bad for a promised $5.00 payout. However, for less than that......

Don't Miss Out on Pinecone Research

2008-08-24T16:44:00.000-07:00

I recently completed a survey for Pinecone Research and wanted to mention that if you can, this is one of the best survey companies to join. They usually post a member invite banner and application to join, but it's elusive. If you are a survey taker, you are sure to have heard about this company. One of the reasons I like it is because they are consistent, reliable and quick payers. Also, their surveys are relatively short and the opportunities to try new, not-yet-on-the-market products are there and often. So, the idea is to make sure to join when you see or hear of a membership application popping up somewhere.

Now, I'm not saying they set you up for some type of Las Vegas travel or free vacation trips. However, if you want free skin products, household cleansing products and things like that, you will have an opportunity to try them out. O.K. so I'm on my way to a really cool Orlando, FL attraction and have to run. Until next time...

Free PayU2Blog T-shirt --- YEAH!

2008-08-10T12:01:00.000-07:00

Talk about a cool freebie, completely unexpectedly, I received a very nice t-shirt from PayU2Blog.com in the mail the other day. As far as company logo shirts go, this t-shirt is very appealing with the purple, white and black PayU2Blog.com name on a stark white, cotton t-shirt. They even guessed my size perfectly. The thing that stood out was the star replacing the dot in .com. I always get that very neat western feel when I sign into my PayU2Blog account. I can just hear the Clint Eastwood theme song...not sure if you know what that is, but I do. :-)

By the way, if you're looking for a nice and easy way to make money online, you should check out their site. I've been with them for a while now and they're as consistent as they come as far as regular work and pay. It's not a big income, but it certainly adds to the multi-income stream that I'm always talking about.

New York Freebies

2008-08-09T15:14:00.001-07:00

I was thinking about freebies the other day and thought about New York, more specifically, Manhattan. All of you New York movers and shakers out there should be able to come up with great freebies. I know there's lots of free stuff out there for you Big Apple people to bring to the table. So, do you have some favorite places where you can find things for free. I know there's lots of free entertainment. I used to frequent New York a few years ago when I lived in Connecticut. All you have to do is go to any subway station and there the players are performing up a storm. I've always loved free style artistry. Anyway, New Yorkers, I'd love to hear from you.

Start Your Own Business and Get Away from Your 9 to 5

2008-08-02T15:46:00.000-07:00

Have you thought about starting your own business? I don't mean just completing surveys and contracting yourself out to do transcription. I'm talking about something you can do and then walk away from while it is still making money for you. My uncle has an offline business where he contracts himself out to clean restaurant equipment after hours. His contractors estimate includes bar faucets, ovens, stoves and a few other things.

He has had this business for a few years now and has hired employees to do his work for him. His business continues to make money for him even when he's at home sleeping. Yes, he has to pay his employees, but the amount he charges brings in good money even with having to pay workers. I haven't gotten to the point where I have hired employees, but I do have a few independent contractors doing work for me. It's getting easier.

I encourage you to look for a way to make money away from your 9 to 5 job. Sooner or later you will fall into something that works so well, you won't need the 9 to 5 job. It's inevitable. That's what happened to me.

I Love Free Stuff

2008-08-02T12:29:00.001-07:00

I recently went to a Mary K party and always love it when I come out with free stuff! I happened to come when the director of the group was celebrating something, so she just starting giving stuff away. I was also suppose to get a lip gloss from my rep, but didn't press it since she gave me $25 off my purchase for the night. It was great. I usually end up spending more than I should. I'm not a big makeup person, never have been. Either way, I always like to go to these things to support my girls.

I was sitting with a group of girls who were talking about Mary K's acne treatments. They seemed to feel that ProActiv was the best out there, but once you stopped the treatments, your acne would come back even worse. It seems that Mary Ks stuff has less side effects for lack of a better way to put it. I told the girls on ProActiv that all they have to do is continue the treatments then, right? Well, I don't have acne, thank Goodness, so I didn't have much to say other than that, but it's interesting to see what other women are contending with.

Anyway, I walked away with a free perfume and $25 towards my purchase which made me a pretty satisfied customer. On top of that, I helped my friend.

So what free stuff have you gotten into lately?

Where Should I Take My Visitors?

2008-07-26T21:00:00.000-07:00

My family is coming down for a visit next month and I've been thinking about some things I'd like to do with them this time around. We've been to all the hot spots down here in South Florida, so there's not much in this area that I'd like to do with them. I had been thinking of taking them to Southwest Florida, the west coast. I haven't done that in a long while. The drive is long, but it might be up their alley. They've been to Orlando, to the resorts and the amusement parks. I don't think they've done Orlando golf stuff, but their not really into that. They've also been to Tampa. You can only repeat those kinds of trips so many times before you get bored or find that you could spend your money more wisely doing less popular, although just as fun, things. Anyway, I'm just plugging along here and thinking to myself. I'm sure we'll figure this out.

Do Not Pay for Lists of Survey Companies

2008-07-26T20:41:00.000-07:00

I periodically talk about survey companies because that was the purpose of my starting this blog way back when. I have been a professional survey take for several years now. I haven't ever make enough to call it a comfortable living arrangement without backing it up with several other multiple income streams, but it does supplement my income. The purpose of completing surveys is to inform the public as a whole about what products or services are worth their time and money. I take pride in forming an opinion about what's out there, especially when it comes to baby stuff.

Either way, this next sentence deserves to be in it's own paragraph or maybe on some huge digital signage. Do not pay for a company to give you a list of surveys. I have found several forums, blogs and websites where the list of survey companies looking for your opinions is given free, meaning without you paying for them. It's not hard to find these lists either. I personally recommend my top 15 on this blog. There are so many more. Taking surveys is very time consuming and sometimes the compensation makes it worth your time. That's for you to determine. I wish you all the best in your endeavors at becoming a professional survey taker.

Remember to Check Walmart's Freebies

2008-07-25T10:19:00.000-07:00

Have you checked out the latest freebies on Walmart's website? If not, you should check at least once or twice a month. Let's see, last month, I ordered lotion, deodorant for my husband, some kine of after shave splash for him too and lots more for free. Mind you, they're usually sample sized and sometimes the lotions come in a little packet, but more times I'm shocked when I get a full sample travel size pack of one thing or another. Walmart offers all kinds of samples from cereal and other dietary products to acne creams, makeup, perfumes, etc. This is one place where you want to bookmark and put a note on your calendar to check. Freebies are fun, aren't they!

Lots of Free Stuff Ideas and Job Info

2008-07-17T17:58:00.000-07:00

Have you stopped over at Volition.com lately? The have all kinds of free stuff ideas that you shouldn't miss out on. Every time I pop over there, I see great reminders to go to Walmart's free samples page, get free magazine subscriptions on topics that I'm interested in and so much more. They have a "Frugality, Sweeps, Freebies and Ways to Make Money" Forum. In that forum is a "Stuff I Found" section. Don't forget to stop by there.

They also have lots of great ideas on ways to make money from secret shopping to surveys and even more traditional job information. The members are all people like you and me, people looking for a break as well as people who had a break and want to share with the rest of us. You might even find out some input on the best diet pills or homeschooling. Anyway, if you get a chance, make it on over there.

Americans with Disabilities Act

2008-07-11T20:05:00.000-07:00

I just saw a movie about Richard Pimentel called The Music Within. It was a great movie! I would love for you all to see it.

According to the epilogue of the movie, Richard Pimentel is recognized "as a key driving force behind the enactment of 1990s Americans with Disabilities Act." His landmark program, WINDMILLS, became the blueprint for diversity training and along with another program changed attitudes in the workplace about hiring and working with people with disabilities. He has been able to touch 23 different countries with his programs.

This movie was special to me since I am very familiar with the unfairness that disabled individuals experience in their lives. It takes special people like Mr. Pimentel to make important changes in effecting equality for all men. I hope you get to see this movie.

Don't go searching for movies about Hilton Head rentals, rats, action or what have you. Just see this movie. I'm sure you'll be touched. I hope so anyway.

Why Am I Blogging?

2008-07-06T17:54:00.000-07:00

As I type and add strain on my laptop memory, I think about all of the things I could be doing instead of writing on this blog. I have been blogging for over two years now. I started this blog back in March of 2006 with the intention of helping others like me find ways to make money online. I also planned on drawing attention to all of the free stuff you could get online.

This blog has taken many tangents from those original intentions, but I always come back to the point when I find good free stuff to write about. For that reason, I can say that I have tried to be true to those intentions and will continue to do so.

However, since this is my blog and I am not limited to what I can write here, I don't just write about free stuff or money or making money. Blogging has been a bit of a catharsis for me when I need to vent, when I am down in the dumps and even when I'm excited about something in my life. It's a life journal for all intents and purposes. It's a journal about my thoughts, ideas, plans, special events, etc.

I love to write. That is why I am not doing something else at this very moment on a Sunday at 9:00 pm.

My children are helping their father and I just finished working on some financials. Today is a good day! This weekend has been an awesome weekend. I have no complaints. I am blessed. Thanks and praises go to my Father in heaven and thank you if you are reading this blog. You are a stranger to me, but I feel close to you somehow, so stay tuned for more. :-)

Looking For Gold Earings that Don't Get Lost!

2008-06-28T18:18:00.000-07:00

I need some earrings.

So I was at Walmart today (which probably says a lot to you about what I am willing to spend on jewelry) and I stopped at the jewelry section. Why? I didn't intend on buying any earrings today, but there I was as you ladies know.

So I check out the selection of earrings and find that they all seem to have the same clasp system that continues to fail me. I have at least 10 pairs of earrings that are missing their partner, because of those dumb clasps.

I thought about getting some pearls instead of gold too, not necessarilyAkoya pearls, just something simple to keep in my ears, earrings that I don't have to take out every night.

Well, I didn't find what I was looking for at Walmart. I'm sure I'll have to spend a little more than I really want to for earrings. The issue is more about the fact that I keep losing one of the pair. That's really irritating.

Lately, I've just been wearing costume jewelry. It's the least expensive, most practical way to fly.

Feeling Old - When Does it Hit?

2008-06-19T19:17:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had a day where you hit that point in your life that after looking in the mirror you felt old? I mean, I'm not talking, now I'm 30, so I'm old. I'm talking about actually seeing it, seeing the wrinkles, seeing the white hair, wanting to go out and buy the top wrinkle cream to make it all just go away. I hit that point about 3 years ago.

It wasn't really the wrinkles or the fact that I was now well into my 30s. It was just a feeling. I had been gaining weight and feeling tired almost all of the time. I started to feel those aches that "older" people talk about. When you ask people in their 30s if they feel old, lots of them still feel like they are at their peak. They have lots of life left in them. I just wasn't feeling that. I haven't felt that "lots of life left" feeling in quite a while. The sad part is that I'm only 35. GASP!

Anyway, I'll change the topic now. Let's go find some free stuff to put a smile on your faces.

I Love Looking for Stuff for the Home!

2008-06-14T19:21:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking a lot about when I am going to redo my bathroom. I moved here about three years ago and since the beginning thought about redoing the master bath. Of course, the funds were not available, but now that I'm doing better with my home business, I find things much more affordable.

I'm not sure if it's just a fun thing for women or if men enjoy this to, but I love looking for stuff for the home and when it comes to renovation, I can just picture my house looking so much nicer when it's all completed. That's why, when I came across these beautiful vessel sinks, I thought...WOW! My bathroom really needs to be upgraded. I'm really into the Tuscanny feel, if you know what I mean, reds, browns, yellows, rock.

I can't wait to make some necessary changes. I just hope I can stay within my budget.

Free Diet Pills Reviews for Summer Slimming Fun

2008-06-14T18:59:00.000-07:00

One of the most common summer passions is focusing on losing weight so you can look great in your bikini. Well, I found a great website with loads of free information on popular diet pills like Phentermine, Orovo, Noxycut, Hydroxycut and more!

The website is called ConsumerPriceWatch.net and I've read up on several common lose weight remedies currently on the market. I have to say that their research seems to be quite extensive. They have reviewed around 200 different popular diet pills for 12 different qualities. Making the cut to the top ten was pretty difficult.

Anyway, if you're into diet pills, or are thinking of taking them and don't know where to start, this is a great source of information and it's free.

More Free Stuff

2008-06-13T10:20:00.001-07:00

Everytime I think about going on vacation, I have to take out these awful suitcases that are breaking to pieces from the inside out. It's all the abuse they take during traveling. The plastic lining on all my luggage are just crackling down. Well, while searching for some more sturdy luggage, I came across Zero Halliburton luggage. Apparently it's been around since the 1930s. I just didn't know about it. Actually, I've seen this kind of luggage, but never thought about getting any.

So, here's the free stuff...this website called the luggagesource.com offers free shipping on orders over $50. They also have other special free gift offers too. I always like to share my findings and this is vacation season, so if you've been looking to buy new luggage, enjoy!

Spring Cleaning Again

2008-06-12T16:09:00.001-07:00

So, I've mentioned spring cleaning over the past few weeks, maybe longer, and I'm glad to say that I've made a nice dent in my plans. This past weekend I moved my living room furniture around so that there could be a better flow to the room. I have a cathedral ceiling in the living room, so it's hard to get the right pictures for the walls. However, I think I've made it look much better than it looked before. Now all I have to do is finish getting rid of the clothes we don't use anymore and I'll be all done.

The nice thing about spring cleaning is that you come across all kinds of stuff that you forgot you had. For instance, I found some jewelry that I haven't used in a long time, a gold chain that I'm now using and some earrings (costume jewelry) that I don't think are any good anymore since they are blackened by time. How much headway are you making in your spring cleaning efforts?

Rising Unemployment Statistics

2008-06-07T17:30:00.000-07:00

Amidst the rising unemployment statistics, one might wonder what they can do to find a job. Are there jobs out there? Is it just inevitable that jobs will be non-existent in a borderline recession economy? Well, you must know, there are jobs out there. If you can't afford the newspaper, you can always go to your local library and sign in to use the internet. There are so many jobs that need to be filled.

You can find jobs for any type of industry, even if you are inexperienced. Most cities, if not every city in the US has its own job market exposed for all to see in one way or another. You can Google your city and the put the word "jobs." For example, if you live in Atlanta, you can put in "jobs in Atlanta" and you should not be surprised to find a whole bunch of links for Atlanta Job listings.

Also, I'm sure you know this, but don't rule out the classifieds in your local newspaper. The library more than likely carries a copy of your local newspaper where you can find the Classifieds section.

That's all for now.

Any Great Freebies or Discounts Lately

2008-06-07T17:16:00.000-07:00

I haven't been to the Freebie Boards and Forums lately and I know I'm missing out, so why don't you tell me what you've been coming across lately. Have you seen any great discounts for vacation destinations. After all, it is summer and most of your children will be on vacation over the next two weeks, if not already.

If there's one place in the Caribbean I'd like to see without having to pay to much, it's the Virgin Islands. Not only do I believe the islands are beautiful, but I love the lilt to the speech of the people of the islands. So I came across a website about
St. John villa rentals that you might enjoy if you are planning on visiting the islands.

Happy Vacationing.

Do you have a steam cleaner?

2008-05-31T18:24:00.000-07:00

Have you seen those steam cleaners that they say will easily clean lime deposits and rust from off of your bathroom and kitchen faucets? I've been thinking of buying one of those, but I don't know anyone who personally tested one of these to ask if they really work. I can't tell you how many times I've tried those "as seen on t.v." ads that promise a product is going to do what you "NEED" only to find out that it wasn't such a great product. Do you own a steam cleaner? Do you have any reviews you'd like to submit in regard to this product? I look forward to hearing from you.

Freebies, Get Your Freebies!

2008-05-30T18:39:00.000-07:00

While I was surfing for home theater sconces, I decided to check Walmart's free samples site again. It's been changed. Have you been there in a while? I can tell you that not only are they offering free samples of popular products, but now they are sharing where you can get other kinds of freebies like free music and free trials. Make sure you stop on by and get your freebies. Today's featured products are from Benefiber, Crystal Light and PullUps. Enjoy!

I'm on a Spontaneous Vacation!

2008-05-24T15:07:00.000-07:00

I'm on a spontaneous vacation and I'm really enjoying myself. My hubby and I just received a nice gift from a loved one, so we decided to take some much needed rest with our two little ones away from home. The nice thing is that this wasn't really planned. We just decided to do this at the last minute. We had spoken on and off about doing something soon over the past month, but because we are going to be going somewhere this Fall, we didn't think it would be good financially, so we were set on staying put.

However, with the little gift we received, it was just enough to take us to Orlando. One of these days we'll do some Las Vegas travel, but Orlando is just a hop, skip and jump away from where we live. Instead of getting a plane ticket, we just have to get in our car and drive for a few hours. That's one of the nice things about living in South Florida.

Anyway, this trip is relatively free considering someone else is paying for it for us, so I just had to share my good fortune experience with you. I'm going to the pool, so I'll be back again soon. :-) Enjoy your long weekend!

Really Cool Lose Weight Website

2008-05-21T07:13:00.000-07:00

I'm really into the idea of losing weight before the end of the third quarter of this year, so I've really been looking into all kinds of weight loss advice. That being said, I know that if you're in the same boat with me, you will enjoy this advice site. They don't just give advice, of course. Everything has a price, but the advice is free.

For example, the site boasts that it is an unbiased source for diet pill, acne treatment and acne treatment reviews. I just read the review on slimquick and it was very concise. It gave information one would need to know about the diet pill and I found it to be pretty informative.

So, if you're dieting and using supplements to help move your metabolism in the right direction, check out this site. The information is free.

Yard Sales and Free Stuff

2008-05-17T19:38:00.001-07:00

I am barely making it today with all of the things I tried to fit into a Saturday. I started out this morning doing a Yard Sale. Actually, it was a community yard sale with lots of kids, lots of sun, lots of junk and lots of people wheeling and dealing.

People were selling everything from key chains and video games to clothes, tvs and even electronics with all the CAT5e cables attached. Well, I don't really know the kind of cables, but there were lots of them.

I even came out with a free box of reading glasses. Yup a whole box full of reading glasses for FREE!

I guess if you're looking to get something for free and you don't want to be online all the time to get it, just go to a Yard Sale.

What's the Best Freebie You've Ever Gotten?

2008-05-08T20:58:00.000-07:00

What is the best freebie you've ever gotten? I mean, you didn't plan on getting it, you saw an ad for it and signed up and voila, it was in your mailbox? I'm not talking about getting something from your parents or your significant other. Yes those freebies count too, but not in the way I'm thinking today.

For example, you went to your favorite freebie forum and you were told to enter a contest and if you are in the first 500 who sign up, you win a ____________. Or perhaps you were looking through one of your favorite magazines and you noticed that if you did so and so and submitted it to xyz company, they would send you a _________ in one of those cute keepsake shipping boxes.

So, come on, let me have it! What's your favorite freebie of all time? Mine? I'd have to say it was pretty recent. I was able to get 30 packs of toothpaste, toothbrushes and a how to brush your teeth booklet for some very unexpecting children at a group center that I visit. It was the coolest thing. O.K. So what's yours?

Walmart Freebies Updated!

2008-05-06T19:47:00.001-07:00

Walmart has new freebies up on their website, so if you haven't been over there in a while, then go check them out. They have free samples for Benefiber, Frizz Ease, Poise Bladder Protection, Good Nites for kids and more. Don't you love getting freebies in the mail. Just go to their site at Walmart.com and type in "Free Samples" in the search box. It should take you right to the page. You could also do a search of this blog. I'm sure I've put the direct link to the page in here somewhere. There is no drug rehab capable of taking away my freebie addiction! What about for you?

My Brother is Almost Here!

2008-04-25T04:08:00.001-07:00

My brother has been driving through the night with his beautiful family, including pregnant wife, to get here. I got a call from him around 11 o'clock last night and he said he anticipated arriving sometime around 6 or 7 am, but when I called a few minutes ago, he still had about four hours to go. Florida is a long State.

His wife has just taken over the driving and he is pooped, so I think she deserves some Tahitian pearls or something for doing that. I'm sure when they get here, they'll be super tired. Now that I have a few more hours to work with, I know exactly what I'm going to do. Shop! :-)

You can never be too prepared for visiting family members.

Free Lists of Paying Survey Companies

2008-04-23T06:34:00.000-07:00

I have seen lists and lists of survey companies who offer incentives for answering surveys, but the recommendations on give on the right sidebar are all companies that I have personally worked with and have been paid by. I would not put up a company that I didn't personally experience for myself.

That being said, I do have a few more companies that I will be putting on that list in the next few days. You won't need a magnifier to find the list. As stated, it's right there in the right hand sidebar for your review. If you have already joined these companies and can recommend others, please feel free to leave me a comment.

Fitness Equipment, Losing Weight and Pinecone

2008-04-19T18:29:00.000-07:00

In doing my spring cleaning project, I have come across a lot of fitness equipment that I don't use. I have decided not to get rid of it since I am planning on using it to meet my weight loss goals. The "skinny days" clothes will have to go though.

About losing weight, I am coming to the conclusion that in order to lose weight, I have to be more than just committed, dedicated and willing. I actually have to do more than all of that. I'm a little depressed about losing weight right now, so I am not going to talk about that.

As far as surveys go, if you ever get the chance to join Pinecone Research, a difficult feat to accomplish, then do it. They pay $5 for each survey you complete. Also, several times in the last two years, I have actually reviewed products that they sent to me. The reviews are worth $5 too, after completing a follow-up survey.

Officially Started Spring Cleaning!

2008-04-17T21:44:00.001-07:00

I have officially started my spring cleaning. Since I don't believe I've ever thrown any of my children's toys away unless they were broken, we had toys galore taking over the baby room. Well, now that the kids are no longer "babies" but toddlers and little children, we got rid of two large boxes of toys. I know these toys are going to make some children very happy. We donated the toys to Good Will.

Now all I have to do is get both of my children savings accounts so that they can buy their own toys, but at a slower pace. I never know how we can accumulate so much, but isn't it crazy?

My next spring cleaning project is to go through all of my clothes. That's going to be hard since I'd love to keep my "skinny" clothes. I know I can do it though. What have been your spring cleaning projects? How has it been going? Do you find it hard to let go?

I Love to Read!

2008-04-17T21:36:00.001-07:00

Not everyone has the precious gift of loving to read books. I on the other hand feel like I have an extra portion of whatever a non-reader is missing out on. I love to read. Of course, I have my preference of genre, mostly romance novels and self-help books, but still. It's good to be a reader.

I am transported all over the world almost every day and I love it. I am hoping to instill the love of reading in my two children. It looks like my daughter is definitely going to be a reader. My son will too, but he is still inclined towards playing rather than reading where she can sit for an hour looking at books.

Have You Started Spring Cleaning Yet?

2008-04-12T18:15:00.001-07:00

I've been planning on doing some spring cleaning for some time now and tomorrow is my selected day. I am so excited. I can't wait to see a new, cleaned out home. O.K. it won't really be "new," but it will be better. :-)

I can tell you for a certainty that some clothes are going to go and some toys too...lots of toys. WOW! I don't believe we've turned anything away that has been offered to our children from uncles, aunts, grandparents and even ourselves on many occasions. Now we have a collection of five years plus of toys.

After I get this taken care of, I'll be moving on to more important stuff since hurricane season is coming, like exterior shutters and a generator.

Free Samples - You Can Get them at Walmart

2008-04-05T15:18:00.001-07:00

Are you going to Walmart's Freebie Page like I suggested in my last post? If not, you should definitely put that link in your favorites or bookmark it. You should then check back like every other week and before you know it, after signing up for the free samples that interest you, you'll be getting them in the mail like every other day.

They have really great samples too. You can get samples for anything from cereal samples to acne treatments. You get lots of lotion samples and hair product samples. You can even get contact lens samples.

One thing to keep in mind is that you should use your free email account when they ask for an email address. They also ask that you be willing to complete a short survey after trying the product, but this is definitely optional.

O.K. That's all for now.

More Walmart Freebies

2008-04-04T19:25:00.001-07:00

Just a heads up to go to the Walmart Free Samples Page...There are a whole new set of freebies.

Here's the link:
http://walmart.triaddigital.com/Free-Samples.aspx

NFO MySurvey - Variety is the Spice of this Company

2008-04-04T06:50:00.000-07:00

If you haven't joined NFO MySurvey, then this is one company I'd recommend for a certainty. They send a neat variety of surveys sent right to your email inbox. You can be sure to get surveys on all types of motherhood issues, home care and many types of products. They also send surveys where you can be selected to sample new products that have yet to come out on the market.

I always find it cool to see something in the store that I had a hand in creating or designing. Being paid for it makes it all the better. NFO is one company that consistently sends surveys so that it is easy to accumulate points and make money. They also have a great referral program.

So, if you haven't joined, the link is in my top favorites right over there are the right sidebar. Just look for NFO My Survey.

Now I have to go figure out what I'm going to do with these bulky children's bunkbeds I bought. Have you ever bought something you thought would fit great in the space you decided for it, but when you finally get it there, it takes up the space in a way that you didn't like. That's what happened with my children's bunkbeds. They're the perfect size and will certainly grow with the kids, but their just too bulky. I'd like to get some of those adjustable beds instead, but I think I'm going to have to stick to these for now.

Wal-Mart Freebies

2008-03-28T05:15:00.000-07:00

As I shared in my last post, Wal-Mart has a page on their website that is updated at least twice a month where they offer free samples of new products coming out on the market. To get the freebies is super easy. You just fill out your name and address where the freebie should go to and put in a free email address.

I wouldn't advise putting in your main email address since you are bound to get lots of advertisements from completing the mail in offer request. Get a Yahoo or Gmail or Hotmail account and use that as your email address.

The rest should be accurate since you do want to receive the freebie. Sometimes the form has a few questions, no more than 5 to 10 about your use of products related to the freebie offered. Answer those and that's it. They will ask if you will provide a review of the product after trying it, but you can answer YES or NO since that is entirely optional and won't affect your getting the sample at all.

You won't get camping gear or something very pricey to try out, but you will get lots of sample deodorants, lotions, hair products and the like. It's super fun to get freebies, so be sure to go to their freebies page. It's here:

Wal-Mart Freebies

Freebies Coming Your Way

2008-03-28T05:11:00.000-07:00

You know, I have been looking back at the posts in this blog and I've noticed that I use to direct you to all kinds of freebies, but lately I've been talking to you about my next faucet purchase or some other spring cleaning event, so I am going to make sure to get you a link to some freebies I benefit from throughout the month.

One place you can always look is on the Wal-Mart website. They constantly have sample offers that you can get sent right to your mailbox. I usually check out their site once or twice a month since they update frequently. It's a fun way to try out new products for FREE! Check them out. I'll get you the link in my next post if you can't find it.

Awesome Company for Home Discounts

2008-03-23T23:55:00.000-07:00

You know I've been talking about spring cleaning. Now that March 20th has passed, it's just one of the very big project on my list of things to do. In that spring cleaning project, I have two big tasks that I'd like to get done before the Hurricane Season arrives here in South Florida. I'd love to update my bathrooms. It seems easy enough to do, but I know it will be a lot of work.

I don't have a big budget for these projects, so I'm definitely going to be looking into becoming a member of directbuy. Have you heard of them. They are all over our talk show radio these days. I hear that, as a member, you can get deep discounts, even manufacturer prices without the retail mark-up, saving almost 50% at times over retail. It's not an online store, but I'm sure going to check out their discounts.

Privacy and Disclosure Policy!

2008-03-21T09:15:00.000-07:00

This blog is a personal blog written and edited by me.

This blog accepts forms of cash advertising, sponsorship, paid insertions or other forms of compensation for some of its blog posts, but certainly not all.

The compensation received may influence the advertising content, topics or posts made in this blog. That content, advertising space or post may not always be identified as paid or sponsored content, however be assured that said content is always my own and in the best interest of my readers, is discussed in a manner that is honest and true to my own experiences with said companies advertised.

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Saturday - My Day Off!

2008-03-15T19:50:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to share a little bit about my day since this was my day off, technically speaking. I woke up this morning and started folding the clothes that I washed yesterday. I knew my family was coming for a visit, so I made an extra effort to clean the house. I've been neglecting my duties over the past week due to other priorities. Anyway, I swept, Windexed the mirrors, cleaned the downstairs bathroom, put the dishes in the dishwasher, got the kids up and dressed to go to a picnic, made sure they ate breakfast, took a very short shower, put on some anti-aging cream (I do that almost every morning), brushed my teeth and eventually ate breakfast myself. Then my children and sister and her children and my husband and I all went to a school picnic. We had the most fun and I'm sure I will have a sunburn tomorrow since I forgot to put sunscreen on. After the picnic, I went to my sister's house to relax a little, but found out my mother needed help installing a window, so I went and helped her with that and then came back to my sister's house to eat and talk, etc. Finally, I'm back home and that's the end of my Saturday Off. Sunday is a work day. Oh Well....It was short and sweet and fun while it lasted. :-)

Exercising With Yoga

2008-03-15T19:23:00.000-07:00

Many of you who read my blog might know that I've been on a diet this past two months or so. I've lost about 15 pounds and would like to lose at least 15 more. I basically chose to change my eating habits to see how much that would affect my weight and have been pleasantly surprised with the results.

On the other hand, I feel that I have hit a plateau more than once in this weight loss battle. I have decided that augmenting my plan with some exercise might boost my plan in the right direction, so I have been using the yoga dvd you see here in this picture. It's called Yoga: Gentle Practice and has 6 routines, 3 1/2 hours of practice and 23 pose lessons.

I have only dabbled in Yoga techniques a time or two and felt the poses were way to difficult to assume when your body is nowhere near use to the positions and contortions that you are being shown. However, what I like about this yoga dvd is that, as a beginner program, it is very doable. I went through one of the six workouts and listened to Zyrka Landwijt's soothing voice throughout. All and all it was surprisingly pretty soothing and relaxing. I didn't feel stressed out that I couldn't make the poses work. The exercises were relatively easy and Zyrka made it seem like you could handle the movement even if you couldn't quite get the positions down exactly as well as she could.

If you're thinking about exercising and you haven't tried Yoga, this is the DVD to get. The beginner's version "Gentle Practice" is for people like you and me. I am glad I had the opportunity to be exposed to Yoga through this DVD. I am hoping to keep up the exercises and lose weight too.

NFO My Survey

2008-03-14T07:30:00.000-07:00

I have a long standing relationship with NFO My Survey. We've been friends for almost two years and what a ride those two years have been. NFO My Survey is a company that offers to pay you in cash, gift card or some really cool gifts. It's up to you to choose and it all depends on how many points you have accumulated, but the surveys are fun and engaging. Sometimes you also get to try new products that you would probably buy anyway.

From my experience, NFO My Survey mainly focus on family and children and how products on the market might affect your family. It's a really cool company and they offer surveys consistently throughout the month so that you can accumulate points fast. 1,000 points pays $10. You must get up to 1000 points to get cash. They do have other offers under 1000 points that you can exchange your points for, but I always like to see CASH Money. Don't you!

The link to this company is in my Top 16 Favorites, so check it out.

I'm going to run now because my husband needs a watch and I've been checking out these Bedat watches. They are really nice. He's more of a rugged look kind of man, but I've always liked the bling.

Going on a Date with my Husband

2008-03-07T17:17:00.000-08:00

My husband and I have arranged a date with each other. I can't remember how long it has been since we did that last. I think it was sometime before the kids were born. No, actually, I remember a few years ago that we went on a day cruise. Anyway, the point is that it is about time, right!

So, hubby says he has something planned in the event of rain and, if it doesn't rain, he says we're going to South Beach to walk hand in hand. I'm game. It's so important for parents to take time to be with each other apart from the children. Sometimes we get so lost in being just parents that we forget why we liked each other before we became mom and dad.

Well, I'm certainly looking forward to it. I was thinking of checking out some hotel deals, but maybe I should just see what happens. It's good to be spontaneous. WooHoo!!!

Naked Naturals Shampoo

2008-03-07T08:33:00.000-08:00

My hair type is thin and curly and has been color treated on a number of occasions, so when I heard about this shampoo called Naked Naturals, I thought, hmmm....Let me look into this. I'm pretty open to trying new products. It comes with the territory when you work at making money completing surveys and testing new products that have not hit the market yet.

Well, as I said, naked naturals seemed to be a great fit for me because it promised to make my hair up to 7 times stronger than it is and, of course, on top of that, it's all natural. All of Naked Naturals products contain this ingredient called Keravis which helps to increase the strength of hair as well as its flexibility. It also helps to reduce breakage.

Sounds good right! Another thing that I look for when buying hair care products is its fragrance. If it smells good, then my hair will smell good. If it smells like medicine as in some dandruff products, then that's what my hair is going to smell like. Who wants that?
So, I tried out Naked Naturals and it smells good. After using it, I don't really know if my hair was stronger. That might happen after several uses, although it is quite possible that it was stronger. I wish it had been a little more sudsy. Overall though, it was a good experience and if you're looking for a natural shampoo, then I'd urge you to try out Naked Naturals.

They have several products that you can choose from along with different fragrances for your olfactory pleasure. Happy hair washing!

On the Brink of Spring!

2008-03-06T17:52:00.000-08:00

We are on the brink of spring and spring cleaning week is coming up. I don't think there is an official "Spring Cleaning" week, but I like to call it that for me. One of the things I'd like to do is clear out all of the clothes my family and I don't use. Another thing I'd love to do, perhaps with my tax refund or tax rebate, is look into some bathroom vanities. The one in my main bathroom is shot and so is the one in the upstairs bathroom. Do you have any spring cleaning plans? I'd love to hear from you.

Cleaning House and Broken ACs

2008-03-01T21:06:00.000-08:00

Today, I spent most of my morning cleaning. It's a Saturday, so doing that was nothing new, but what was new was the fact that I had to fix my AC unit. Sometimes, as you might know if you have central air, the pipes get clogged and you have to wet vac them in and out and then pour a little Clorox down the pipes.

That's what I had to do today. It worked. The AC unit has been on full blast today without a hiccup. I love what experience and home ownership does to my self esteem. Now all I need is one of those air purifiers to take out the fish smell after an evening of frying fish. So, what was your Saturday like?

It's Has Been A Great Day!

2008-02-29T12:03:00.000-08:00

I have been having a wonderful day. It started out when I stepped on the scale this morning and low and behold, I had lost two pounds. I have been working so hard at losing weight, eating right and exercising, but hadn't been seeing too much progress. Since I started this diet plan about 8 weeks ago, I have lost fifteen pounds. I'm not saying I don't need life insurance or anything, but I have been feeling lighter and my attitude is definitely more positive.

Another thing that happened today is that things have been running smoothly business wise. When that happens, all is right with the world. I love my life. I stay at home and care for my family responsibilities, something that many woman are not able to do because of whatever reasons. I am extremely grateful for my life and look forward to seeing that scale move closer and closer to what I weighed before my daughter graced my life with her presence. I love you Jazz!

Buying Property - the Best Investment

2008-02-22T14:36:00.000-08:00

I have constantly heard that buying property is one of the best investments you can make. I'm here to tell you that it is so true. The reason why I have a good equity value in my home now is because I used the funds that I received on a condo sale to buy this place. I would never have had the money by usual means, hard work and back breaking sweat in a 9 to 5. However buying property seems to be the way to go.

In fact, lots of real estate companies are trying to encourage property purchases because the market is still in a downward trend. I hear it takes about 10 years to see an increase in property value trends and as with stock, times like now are supposed to be the best times to make your investment. So, if you come into a lot of money and have nowhere to put it other than an IRA or one of those types of money vehicles, don't rule out investing in land.

Not only are houses for sale at lower values of late, but even land. Look at this Alabama land for sale, for example. This is something to consider.

Broken Porch Lights

2008-02-22T14:30:00.000-08:00

I just need to vent a little about my little community. I live in a development where there exists an association. One of the things that bothers me to no end is the lack of enthusiasm on homeowners' parts when it comes to the upkeep of the community. Recently a checklist was sent out to homeowners requesting that certain repairs be made to the outside of their units so that the community maintains its beauty. What have I been hearing about this?

The board is too picky. Oh, come on! Why don't we look at the grass in front of units before we make people worry about their exterior lighting.

I say, don't we have to start small and work our way up? Don't we have to consistently work to maintain aesthetics for property values to increase, not decrease? I don't understand what the big deal is when it comes to being requested to fix a broken porch light. What is the problem people!!!

O.K. This is not about surveys, but as I use this blog as my avenue for self expression...I hope you understand. :-)

Feeling Crappy and House Work.

2008-02-22T14:17:00.000-08:00

I am feeling so sick. I have a head cold that has been kicking my butt these past three days and I'm too tired to do house work. I wish I could just go to the bathroom and like a genie give the whole bathroom a bath lift. Life would be so much easier if I could just blink and say be gone and all of the dirt would disappear. Is that how you feel sometimes. Well, let me tell you that you are not alone!

On that note, I did want to mention that I did a survey pre-questionaire for Clearvoice Surveys and even though I didn't qualify, I was given $.50. That's cool for answering a few questions. I am totally recommending this company if you like to get paid to do surveys for a living.

That's all for now.

Look at these Boots!

2008-02-17T18:53:00.001-08:00

Look at these really neat sheepskin boots I just found online. Now, I don't live anywhere near a winter location, but I use to. I remember walking in the crunching snow in heels, because I just didn't know any better. That's when I first moved to Connecticut. Now that I'm back home in Florida, I have a bunch of winter clothes and boots that I just don't use. It's just not necessary to have boots like those.

However, don't they look like they'd be really warm! I just thought I'd share these with you since they looked so cool. I'm one of those kind of people that really go for the wrapping, the packaging of a thing when I decide to make a purchase. I know that I probably pay more just because the packaging looks so nice, but in this case, the boots just look fashionable, don't they? They have that flair. Anyway, that's my thought for the day.

Possibilities Book

2008-02-17T05:26:00.000-08:00

I just saw a movie - funny how I can't remember it's name - with Queen Latifah and LL Cool J that brought out a great idea I'd like to follow up on in my life. Queen Latifah created a scrap book named "Possibilities" and like its name suggests, she put in it all of the things she'd like to do in her lifetime. She loved to cook, but didn't always feel she should eat the delicious dishes she made, so she would take a picture of her meals and place them in her book of possibilities. She wanted to meet famous chefs, so she placed pictures of these famous chefs in her book as well...You get the picture.

What would you put into your book of possibilities? Would you like to go to Branson Missouri, or some exotic place, but don't think you'd ever have the money or, perhaps more importantly, the time? Again I ask, what would you put into your possibilities book?

I asked my husband this question. I said, If there was ever a place - what the heck - three places that you would like to visit in your lifetime, what would they be? He mentioned Tahiti, New Zealand and some other place that I can't remember now. I was surprised at the New Zealand answer, but hmmmm. Maybe someday we can make his dreams into realities.

This Might Save Your Life

2008-02-16T05:20:00.000-08:00

I received this email from my sister and thought it would be very informative to all women or, in fact, any potential victim of a crime like the ones mentioned below. Please READ this. I'm not sure where it came from, but whoever wrote it, it deserves to be read.

UPDATED: I posted a link to this blog in one of my favorite forums - WAHM.com - and was provided with an awesome and more "advice-worthy" link in regard to the safety advice given below. Please take a minute to refer to Snopes for a clearly and more accurately delineated list of the suggested safety tips below. I started to strike out the tips that were somewhat inaccurate below, but decided to just refer you and urge you to the Snopes list. Again, these tips might save your life!

To All:
Everyone should take 5 minutes to read this. It may save your life or a loved one's life.

Crucial
Because of recent abductions in daylight hours, refresh yourself of these things to do in an emergency situation...

This is for you, and for you to share with your wife, your children, everyone you know.

After reading these 9 crucial tips, forward them to someone you care about.

It never hurts to be careful in this crazy world we live in.
1 . Tip from Tae Kwon Do: The ~~elbow~~ Knee is the strongest point on your body. If you are close enough to use it, do!

"While the elbow is one of your body parts that can be used effectively in a fight, it is not the strongest — that honor goes to the humble knee."

2. If a robber asks for your wallet and/or purse, DO NOT HAND IT TO HIM. Toss it away from you.... chances are that he is more interested in your wallet and/or purse than you, and he will go for the wallet/purse.

RUN LIKE MAD IN THE OTHER DIRECTION!

"This ploy would likely work if the assailant's objective were robbery, but if he were intent upon kidnapping, rape, murder, or simple assault, throwing your handbag away would do nothing other than rid you of an item you could have used as a weapon."

3. If you are ever thrown into the trunk of a car, kick out the back tail lights and stick your arm out the hole and start waving like crazy. The driver won't see you, but everybody else will. This has saved lives.

"A better plan would be to look for the glow-in-the-dark trunk release tab incorporated into some newer vehicles. Also, the back seats of many recent models fold down to accommodate the transport of larger items, so go deep into the trunk and push on the rear of the back seats to see if they open. If pushing fails, feel about on this area for knobs or levers that serve to latch the folding seat backs in place and work them."

..... Notice the Strikes? This is the reason why it would be better to review this list from Snopes point of view. Please share that link with your friends!

4. Women have a tendency to get into their cars after shopping, eating, working, etc., and just sit doing their checkbook, or making a list, etc. DON'T DO THIS! The predator will be watching you, and this is the perfect opportunity for him to get in
on the passenger side, put a gun to your head, and tell you where to go.

AS SOON AS YOU GET INTO YOUR CAR, LOCK THE DOORS AND LEAVE. If someone is in the car
with a gun to your head DO NOT DRIVE OFF, repeat: DO NOT DRIVE OFF! Instead gun the engine and speed into anything, wrecking the car.

Your Air Bag will save you. If the person is in the back seat they will get the worst of it. As soon as the car crashes bail out and run. It is better than having them find your body in a remote location.

5. A few notes about getting into your car in a parking lot, or parking garage:

A.) Be aware: look around you, look into your car, at the passenger side floor, and in the back seat.

B.) If you are parked next to a big van, enter your car from the passenger door.

Most serial killers attack their victims by pulling them into their vans while the women are attempting to get into their cars.

C.) Look at the car parked on the driver's side of your vehicle, and the passenger side. If a male is sitting alone in the seat nearest your car, you may want to walk back into the mall, or work, and get a guard/policeman to walk you back out.

IT IS ALWAYS BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY. (And better paranoid than dead..)

6. ALWAYS take the elevator instead of the stairs. (Stairwells are horrible places to be alone and the perfect crime spot. This is especially true at NIGHT!)

7. If the predator has a gun and you are not under his control, ALWAYS RUN! The predator will only hit you (a running target) 4 in 100 times; And even then, it most likely WILL NOT be a vital organ. RUN, Preferably in a zig -zag pattern!

8. Women are always trying to be sympathetic: STOP! It may get you raped, or killed.

Ted Bundy, the serial killer, was a good-looking, well educated man, who ALWAYS played on the sympathies of unsuspecting women. He walked with a cane, or a limp, and often asked "for help" into his vehicle or with his vehicle, which is when he abducted his next victim.

9. Another Safety Point:

Someone just told me that her friend heard a crying baby on her porch the night before last, and she called the police because it was late and she thought it was weird. The police told her "Whatever you do, DO NOT open the door."

The lady then said that it sounded like the baby had crawled near a window, and she was worried that it would crawl to the street and get run over.

The policeman said, "We already have a unit on the way, whatever you do, DO NOT open the door." He told her that they think a serial killer has a baby's cry recorded and uses it to coax women out of their homes thinking that someone dropped off a baby He said they have not verified it, but have had several calls by women saying that they hear baby's cries outside their doors when they're home alone at night.

Please pass this on and DO NOT open the door for a crying baby ---- This e-mail should be taken seriously because the Crying Baby theory was mentioned on America 's Most Wanted this past Saturday when they profiled the serial killer in Louisiana.

I'd like you to forward this to all the women and men you know.

It may save a life. A candle is not dimmed by lighting another candle.

I was going to send this to the ladies only, but guys, if you love your mothers, wives, sisters, daughters, etc., you may want to pass it onto them, as well.

Send this to any woman or man you know that may need to be reminded that the world we live in has a lot of crazies in it!

That's the end of the email. The messages in this email are imperative to read. I can tell you that I have been "unaware" and acting in some of the ways that were mentioned in this email. Thank goodness I haven't been a victim! Don't be one yourself...Not if you can help it!

Working Hard - Little Results

2008-02-15T06:59:00.000-08:00

You know, when I started completing surveys for a living, I noticed almost right away that completing surveys was not going to be enough to keep me and my family afloat. I needed to supplement my husband's income in a bad way and I tried everything. My husband never understood the hours I'd spend completing surveys for payments like $2, $1 and even $5, but I was grateful for any little help I could get monetarily and that's why I did it. The lists and lists of consumer questions I answered were sometimes satisfying, because I knew that my opinion mattered. However, the monotony of completing surveys grew and grew. I needed to find some other way to work hard and get better results.

How did I do it? I found out how to build my own e-commerce website. I did have to spend some money to start, but the money I've made over the last two years has long since made up for the amount I dished out at the beginning. I have truly found a way to make ends meet. It's not as consistent and dependable as a 9 to 5 job, but it has been working for nearly two years now and I'm fighting to keep it alive as long as I can so I can continue to be a stay at home mom.

That being said, one of the things I enjoy about being a stay at home/work at home mom is that I'm not under the heavy boss fire that I use to be under. When I make a mistake, it's my mistake, my company, my responsibility. I take it out on myself....or not. I don't have to worry about what some cpm software says about my performance at work. I know I work hard and I am rewarded everyday! Are you? Do more for yourself and your family. Find a way to start your own business and see how you can become more successful than you ever realized using the internet.

Any Golfers Out There?

2008-02-08T13:34:00.000-08:00

I use to work for a man who golfed almost everyday of the year. He golfed when it was drizzling, when it was snowing (lightly) and, of course, when it was sunny. The only times he didn't golf were when he was sick and when the weather was not in agreement with his plans. When he didn't get to get out on the course, he was pretty much a cranky, grumpy man and not easy to deal with.

Well, the reason I brought this up was because I was looking at some vacation spots this morning and came across the Branson private golf course. It looks like a golfers dream course. What do I know? It looks gorgeous period. I've never been to Missouri, but when I grow up and become a world traveler, that's one of the places I'm going to visit.

By the way, off on a different tangent, if you read my post two days ago, you'll see that I was suppose to go and help my mom finish putting up that ceiling fan. We Did It! Just goes to show you - Where there's a will there's a way!

Hanging a Ceiling Fan

2008-02-06T22:07:00.001-08:00

My mom has once again decided to do something new to her home. Last time it was getting a 42" flat screen TV and deciding on if she was going to need a tv wall mount, which she eventually decided against. Now she's putting up a ceiling fan.

I live like 40 minutes away from her and when I go to visit, she usually likes to get me to help her do something she has been meaning to do, but didn't want to do by herself, thus, putting up a ceiling fan. I'm not an electrician and have never hung up a fan like this. I've seen it done, but never really paid much attention. Well, it was certainly an adventure. We didn't do it quite right, so tomorrow I will be going back to help make things right. We'll see how it goes. Until next time...

PMS - It's a Bummer!

2008-02-01T10:42:00.000-08:00

I've been trying to walk to lose weight, but I think my body is contradicting all of my hard work. My scale hasn't moved down this entire week. After serious consideration, I've come to think it's all related to bloating, water retention and PMS. The question is, is my body producing too much progesterone or is it estrogen.

Anyway, it's not doing what I want it to do. I'm looking forward to having only one chin again and very soon. So, are you on a diet? Are you putting forth effort with little or no results? I guess I could say that I have the glass is half empty/half full syndrome. I could say that my weight hasn't gone up which is a good thing too, right! Oh well, onto other more positive thoughts....

Clear Voice Surveys

2008-01-26T07:52:00.000-08:00

I have been receiving emails from Clear Voice Surveys inviting me to complete surveys for cash. They have offered me upwards of $5, but mostly $2 surveys. Either way, cash is cash, so I'd say this is one of those companies you should look into if you are interested in completing surveys. As with many survey companies, their questionnaires are eclectic from simple product surveys, to service related surveys like alarm system monitoring companies and the like, stuff like that.

I'm going to add them to my list of favorite survey companies simply because I've heard some great things about them and have experienced the fact that they do pay. In fact, even if you don't qualify for the surveys they invite you to complete, you will still be rewarded for your time. I just went through the qualifier on one $2 survey and didn't qualify, but I was given $0.25 anyway. Payment is made after you accumulate $10, which is not hard to do. On that note...ta ta!

Started a New Blog!

2008-01-25T13:42:00.001-08:00

I've been blogging for almost two years and I just can't believe that. Well, it will be two years in March. Knowing what I know now about blogging and making money online, I can only say I am glad that I started and don't see an end in site.

In fact, I just started a new blog that will chronicle my weight loss from now until September, the month I'm suppose to go to a wedding in New York. Maybe if I lose enough weight, I'll reward myself with a new set of Samsonite luggage. My luggage now is just about worn out, so I know I'll deserve it. I have a goal of losing at least 30 lbs. Think I'll do it? I'm on my way! :-)

Another Blog about Weight Loss

2008-01-19T18:50:00.000-08:00

I was just saying in another blog of mine that this losing weight thing is not going exactly as I had planned. By now, I was counting on at least losing two pounds. It's been a week since I should've started, but I didn't really start yet. What's up with that, right!? Anyway, on top of having trouble getting a kickstart on this diet thing, I also have issues becoming motivated to work on my websites.

I am glad I don't have to go through an employee performance evaluation, since I am the owner of my company, but if I did submit myself to one, I don't think I'd pass muster. I think I'm burned out. I hope I can motivate myself soon, because I can already see my business suffering because of it. Anyway, time for a little pity party. :-( Nah! I'll get it together. Tomorrow is the start of a new week.

As far as the dieting goes, I just need a little guidance which I just purchased. The website matter is an altogether different problem. I have to jot down my plans and move forward. Last year was wonderful and this year has to be just as wonderful, if not better. I hope you're not in a slump too, but if you are, don't worry. Just wake up and smell the coffee. It'll get better.

Losing Weight - Start Date Coming Up

2008-01-05T18:13:00.000-08:00

Losing weight is one of the top thought about things at the passing of the New Year and I have to tell you, it's definitely on my "to-do" list. My start date will be January 12, 2007. I say that because that's the day my mom is going to be enlisting in a lose-weight contest and guess what! She's got me enlisting too. One of the hardest factors of losing weight is lack of motivation and lack of support. Well, with her support and my sister's support, I'm sure I'll be able to meet my goals. I'm giving myself nine months to lose 30 pounds. I'm going to a wedding in September, you see.

I'm sure you'll be seeing what king of progress I'll be making as I blog. All that being said and to get my mind off dieting for a little while, I came across these Chrysler 300 accessories. You find so much stuff on the internet and surfing is a sure fire way of passing the time and getting your mind off of your thick waist. So, I may have asked this before, but what are your plans for the coming days and weeks?

Completing Surveys - An Addition to Your Multiple Income Stream.

2008-01-04T20:01:00.001-08:00

Well, it's a New Year for the Free Survey Lists and More blog. I've been thinking about what to focus on this year when it comes to taking surveys. I've learned a lot about survey taking over the last two years too. The thing I've learned the most is that making money completing surveys is possible, but you have to know which surveys to take and which companies to involve yourself with. Focus Groups are always a nice way to go since you make the most money in the least amount of time.

Completing surveys on just about anything from tampons to toilet paper to real estate and rice, it's all good. However, which companies you complete surveys for determines what you will be making. As you may have noticed, I have a list of some of my favorite survey companies. Some pay you in points and then eventually in gift cards or cash. Others pay you in other material ways. I guess your wish to complete surveys and what kind of compensation you expect to receive depends on your situation.

I will tell you this. It will take a lot of effort to make a living completing surveys. It's just not consistent enough, in my experience, to depend on it as a full-time or even part-time income. On the other hand, you can depend on it as one of your multiple income streams. You can work with 10 or 50 companies. It all depends on how many surveys you complete and how much each company agrees to pay you.

All in all, I wish you all the best as you start the New Year adding to your multiple income stream. Surveys is definitely one way to go.

Travel Insurance

2007-12-29T04:47:00.001-08:00

I traveled to my in-laws last weekend and am already back home, but now have family that came to me. All this traveling put in my mind the idea of travel insurance. Have you ever purchased it? Was it expensive? I've traveled so often without it, that I haven't been able to see the benefit of having it.

Also, 99.9% of the time, I travel with all of my family members, so if the plane goes down, we all go with it. On the other hand, like life insurance, it would benefit someone, perhaps the other family we leave behind. I kind of think that if I buy it, I'm already anticipating disaster. I just don't want to have that in my head while I'm 30,000 miles up. What are your thoughts?

Kitchen Tools You Must Have

2007-12-25T18:58:00.000-08:00

There are some kitchen tools that you must have, even if you don't cook often. First and foremost, you must have an excellent knife set and great pots to cook in. You must also have food choppers, either electric or hand made depending on your needs. There is no need in this day and age to have tears after chopping onions. Another must have is a set of eight plates, cups, mugs, you know, the whole shebang. You may not use eight of everything on a regular basis, but it sure comes in handy when you're entertaining.

I'd also suggest a great set of mixing bowls in various sizes, being sure not to miss the extra large size for those days when you want to bake and need a big mixing bowl for just that purpose. It goes without saying, but I'll mention it anyway. Don't forget mixing spoons, large and small, a cake cutter, pancake turner, pizza slicer, wire whisk, egg slicer, apple cutter, mixer, blender, toaster oven, toaster, microwave .... boy, now that I think on it, there are a number of kitchen tools that you should not be without. Feel free to add to the list.

Spring Cleaning and Losing Weight

2007-12-20T03:48:00.001-08:00

My mother recently bought a flat screen t.v., something she decided to splurge on because she got a huge bonus from work. She decided to forgo the tv mount since she had a place on her dresser that she felt would work well. It's a cool t.v. I'd get one for my husband and I if I didn't have a huge entertainment unit that doesn't do the trick for a flat screen. In fact, if I could let myself let go of that entertainment unit, I would. It takes up so much space in my little home.

I originally bought it for another home that was smaller, in fact, than the home I'm currently living in. However, it just seemed to fit better. Now it seems like it's just taking up space. So, on that note, I'm going to start spring cleaning early. I believe I will actually get rid of the clothes that I haven't been able to wear for the last three years along with a few other things. It'll be sad to part with those clothes since I've been hoping to fit into them again, but such is life. I'll buy new ones when I lose weight.

By the way, did you see the Biggest Loser finale the other day. WOW! What transformations! Congratulations to all of you who have kept to your goals and lost weight. Most importantly, congratulations on becoming more healthy! Signing out for now....

Gift Giving - Most Popular Gifts?

2007-12-19T03:54:00.000-08:00

What are some of the most popular gifts of the season? Would you say it's toys, jewelry, clothes or a mixture of all three? I haven't done any research on this, but I'm sure it'll come out in the next month or so. I'd say that jewelry and toys would top the charts, a gold bangle, a diamond bracelet, a beautiful set of onyx earrings never hurt anyone.

So what was your most popular gift this year? Did you settle on something inexpensive, but classy or did you go all out and buy that car your husband or favorite teenager has really been wanting. Whatever it is, remember to give the gift of love, for it is the most important of all!

Survey Spot

2007-12-19T03:49:00.000-08:00

One thing I have noticed over the past months and months that I've taken surveys for Survey Spot is that they are pretty well rounded. They have surveys for young kids, males, females, all the usual survey takers. However, the type of surveys range from products you buy in the store to food to truck accident lawyers and other service oriented professions. If you want to have a good time taking surveys, Survey Spot is the one for you. They pay relatively well, most times ranging from $2 - $5, sometimes higher. So, join Survey Spot if you're in the market for fun surveys and a little picking of your brain.

I am Tired!

2007-12-18T16:19:00.000-08:00

I am absolutely exhausted. I have a home business, right. Well, it's been booming! I sell toys and, as you know, toys are ever popular, but especially at this time of year. I'm not saying I've made enough to retire and buy a suite at one of those Condo Hotels, but I'm comfortable this month.

It's been a real blessing coming up with a way to stay home with my two children. If you don't have a website yet, you need to get one! Find a way to open up an online store and start selling stuff. Ebay didn't do it for me, but it might for you. You don't have to sell your own stuff either. You can find a product and see if a company who sells it does drop shipping. Learn all you need to know and work with what you have learned as you go. I'm telling you, it's worth it.

Disposable vs. Rechargeable Batteries

2007-12-15T20:02:00.000-08:00

Have you noticed that kid's toys are coming with more and more batteries. I bought my son a Geo-Trax train set and it is so cool. However, I think it comes with a requirement for some ten to fifteen batteries for all the lights and gadgets to work the way they are suppose to. It's crazy. On top of that my son has this habit of leaving his toys on, lights on, music on, what have you on so that all the juice in the batteries die within days, $10-$15 dollars down the drain.

Have you thought about getting rechargeable batteries? I certainly have. They are a little more expensive, but in the long run, you do save, don't you. I don't have any yet, but that's what I think.

Ready for some You Time?

2007-12-14T16:52:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but I am so ready for a vacation, maybe even a few nights at a Vegas hotel! I've been so swamped these past few weeks with business and gift buying and shipping that it's just been too crazy. What have your days been like? Are you ready for a hot tub soak and maybe some "you" time? What would you do if you had "you" time - I mean time that you absolutely chose to think of nothing but you? Think about it and let me know. I could think of lots of things, if only I could get my brain to stop for a moment and let me enjoy those moments.

The Taste of Gold Medal Wine

2007-12-11T17:54:00.000-08:00

The other day I received a very well packaged gift from the Gold Medal Wine Club. This special club features a wine of the month from only the best small wineries in California, according to their very well put together newsletter, The Wine Press.

The wines I received were the 2005 Belvedere Russian River Valley Chardonnay from Sonoma County and the 2004 Bradford Mountain Grist Vineyard Zinfandel from Dry Creek Valley. I can't say that I am a wine connoisseur, but they were both very good choices and I knew it right from the start. The white Zinfandel was tasty, dry, not too sweet, all around just right! The red wine was a little more bitter to taste, not as sweet as I expected, but also went down the pallet rather smoothly.

The nice thing about receiving The Wine Press newsletter with my gift is that it explained the history of the wines I received. It detailed the tastes that are sampled as you are drinking sip by sip. It puts you in the frame of mind of really enjoying yourself as you sit and dream up the pictures painted in the descriptions. I could almost see myself sitting in the middle of a wine vineyard eating the tasty food selections recommended, the Rosemary Chicken and the Cellar Rat Cioppino. Mmmmm!

So, I give thanks to the Gold Medal Wine Club and hope that you are feeling festive after reading this blog.