So Long, Farewell....

It's been a long time coming, but I am finally pulling the plug.

This is the end of Mrs Nespy's World.

Over the last week I have been pulling affiliation links, contacting PR firms and cleaning out the blog.  After almost 6 years of blogging, I have to now admit that this blog has run its course.

Life changes and although this blog evolved - twice - it is really just time for me to hang my hat and say farewell.

I have pared it down from over 1400 posts to just 330.  I left those posts up that were informational, those that still receive traffic because people are looking for information (and they come here for it, which still surprises me), and those that I thought people could use.  The rest - they are gone.

I've loved every moment of it (at least until a few months ago when the quality and quantity of posts really starting deteriorating around here), but it is time to go.

I'm still following so many of you and I've made some really good online friends, so I do thank you all for the love (both real and comment) and support you've given over the years.

Until we meet again...

Pants Without Pockets - WHY?!

This will be a short rant.

I have been frustrated by this situation for a while now, but I am not feeling well today, so darn it - I'm going to complain about something.

Why, oh why, do they make pants without pockets? 

I have several pairs of work pants that have no pocket area (front or back) whatsoever and it drives me up the wall!

I know - some ladies carry purses to work, and frankly I do also carry one - TO work, but not around work.  I work in a manufacturing and warehouse environment and it's just not practical to carry my purse around with me all day.  What I do need though, is somewhere to stick my keys to the facility, a place to clip the radio that I have to wear, and somewhere to stick a dollar bill for when I need some caffeine in my life. 

On those days that I happen to choose pants without pockets are obviously the ones when I usually end up needing them the most.

GRRRRRRR.

Yeah - don't remind me to look for these things while I'm shopping because I never realize I don't have pockets until I need them.

Tell me something that frustrates you today. Let's all gripe together.

I Am a Proverbs 31 Woman - And I Have a Full Time Career

Photo Credit: pepo

There is a blog that I read that I sometimes agree wholeheartedly with and at other times, balk at when I read the titles of the posts. It's okay. I like reading differing opinions - in the comments as well as in the body of the post. It keeps me on my toes and keeps me thinking. I should go ahead and state that it is a highly conservative Christian blog written by a woman. I am a pretty highly conservative woman myself so this isn't something completely foreign to me.

However, there are times when I frankly just feel judged. You know, you read the post and something just jabs at you. And then you read the comments and find everyone agreeing with the writer and no one offering any differing opinions. Is it because I'm just that wrong (I don't think so)? Is it because this blog only captures a certain audience (mostly, but not entirely)? Does this writer moderate and delete the comments of those who differ from her (I don't think so)?

This is one instance that I just have to share. I have to write my point of view. I have to state my case (even to those of you who aren't part of that same audience).

The writer of that blog wrote:

It is impossible to have a full-time career, a solid marriage, secure and godly children, and a well-run home with nutritious food.  Nobody is superhuman.

While I will nod in vehement agreement that no one is superhuman, I felt slapped in the face. You see, I have a full time career...and because of that, I'm obviously lacking in one of the other categories because it is impossible based on her opinions (which so many agree with in the comments) that I could do all of those things well. Forget that she has never met my husband, my children or seen my house or our refrigerator and pantry.

I will not claim to be superwoman, but as I state in the comment section:

...I am a full-time working engineer. I have a solid marriage with a man who loves me and respects me. My children love God and love learning about God. Their father and I are far from perfect, but we strive daily to show them how to seek God and love others as we are commanded to do. My home is well run - the bills are paid on time every time; the house is clean; there is currently one load of laundry waiting on me; there is a fully stocked fridge of fresh and healthy food as well as some treats that may not be healthy but are also not altogether terrible - and those are limited in their consumption. The beds are made, the kids' chores are done, everyone is dressed, their homework is finished, we attend church services and functions at most every chance, and our children are also involved in extracurriculars. Additionally, we are not raising children who are materialistic. They are generous and loving. They are giving and fun. There is plenty of family time spent absent from technology. There are lots of cuddles to go around. There is plenty of husband-wife time. There is even room left for me to have a bubble bath with a good book at the end of the day.

So - although I am not perfect; my family is not perfect either - we're quite put together. We get our stuff done. We serve the Lord. And to say that this is not possible because I work away from the home, is quite a far reach from reality.

I understand, and honestly agree, that no one will raise my children like I will. I agree that time is the best thing I can give my children. I believe that it is mainly my responsibility to maintain our household (not that I do the work, but make sure it is done).

But I want to point out something that a huge trend of Christian women are missing these days, I believe.  You know the Proverbs 31 woman that everyone quotes?  You know, she cooks and sews and gives and volunteers and raises godly children all while pleasing her husband?  Read between those lines.  You know what else she does?  She buys a field with her earnings (verse 16), she trades (verse 18), and she sells items she has made (verse 24).  She is a business woman. Yes...she is at home much of the time. But is this what the writer of the proverb is praising?  Could it be that she is at home doing these things because it was socially unacceptable for women to work or be formally educated?  It appears that she is working hard and earning her own money to care for her family. Notice again...the field is bought "with her earnings" (again - she has earnings, people).

It actually never says that she stays home and cares for her children. She might have to hand them off to a relative to do all of this work and these business dealings - at least some of the time that would seem feasible.

It simply says that she does whatever she can to take care of her family.

So why is it that working outside the home is thought of as "lesser" in some Christian women's circles?  The Proverbs 31 woman did it...at least some of the time. There is no way she did all of that from home.

So if you want to stay at home and raise your children, I say good for you. More power to you. I'm so excited that you have that option in your life. On some days, I wish it were me as well.

But if you can't stay at home...or just don't want to...I think that is certainly your decision to make as well as long as you talk it through with God.  Just like I have.  I think as long as you are doing everything you can to make sure that your children are being taken care of by people who have similar values as you and that you are making sure there is food on the table for everyone to eat...you also are a Proverbs 31 woman. You are not selfish...no matter what some corners of society tell you.

You are taking care of yours.

Good for you. Carry on and be at peace with God.

Confessions of THIS Working Mom

Photo credit: ks

There is often found some animosity between moms who stay at home with their children full time and others who work outside of the home. Each seems to think the other attacks them...and some actually do. Regardless of which side of the fence you (or your wife) sit on today, know that these confessions are my heartfelt feelings. They are not personal. They may not even be truth. But they are how I feel at this moment in my life.

1. I always wanted a career. Growing up I probably wanted a career more than children. I excelled academically and felt this was my obvious path.
2. I entered a male-dominated field because engineering is something that I'm good at. It makes sense to me. If I had to choose a career over again, I would choose this one again a hundred times over.
3. I realized how much I wanted to have a child when I suspected I was pregnant and miscarrying due to some major trauma in my life. I was heartbroken over the loss of this possible child and knew then that I wanted to be a mom.
4. Becoming a mom has changed my entire perspective on my life. It gave me new purpose. It gave me new focus. It gave me new goals.
5. I am the breadwinner of our family. It is due to the fact that I chose a field that allows financial growth when promotions arise. Being pretty good at what I do, I have received promotions and that has allowed a growing paycheck.
6. I care only about my career at this point in my life because it provides a livelihood for my family.
7. I THINK I would love to stay at home with the children. I would love to interact with them more frequently on a daily basis. I dream of things I would do with them and ways I would teach them about the world we live in.
8. I also know that I might not be that great of a stay at home mom. There are plenty of times that I feel I lose my patience too easily, and I would hate to impart that on my children so frequently.
9. I wish I could give it a try just to see. And I could work on my patience and grow with my children.
10. I probably will never get that wish.
11. I hate thinking of all of the class trips I won't be able to chaperone.
12. I hate all of the bake sales I will miss working because I'll be at work.
13. I hate thinking of the before school and after school hours my children will have to endure because I have a career.
14. I hate feeling like I am letting my children down because they will not truly have a "summer break" from school like I did.
15. I think I would volunteer more often if I stayed at home with my children. It seems like I would be able to do more in the evenings or even once they were both in school that would benefit the greater good. Now my evenings are spent making sure I spend time with them so I am not completely absent from their lives.
16. I get frustrated when I read about stay at home moms who complain that they have too much housework in addition to their mom duties. I feel like I have to also fill the role of mom in addition to the same amount of housework WHILE juggling a career.
17. Then I feel guilty knowing that I haven't walked a mile in their shoes.
18. But then I feel that way again when I read it from another.
19. I get jealous that my son wants to spend more time with his dad because he's the fun one. I agree...he is the fun one. But I still get jealous.
20. I love when I come home to two children who light up when I walk in the door. They often run over to hug me and say "Mom!" It also breaks my heart that they have had reason to miss me.

So. There it is laid on the table for all to see.

Like I said...it is not to offend. It is simply how I feel. And I just felt like I needed to release it today.

Thanks for listening.

Is there anything you need to get off of your chest?

10 Bloggers I Would Like to Meet

I have a HUGE list of blogs I read. Seriously...it's crazy. Thank goodness for a reader service or I would be clicking all day long. I love all of the blogs I subscribe to, but there are some bloggers that I truly would love to meet in person one day. This is a list of those people. It started as a list of 8 for my "Monday 8s" theme, but I just couldn't trim it down any further, so you'll just have to accept this Monday 10 in its place.

1. Angie Smith from Bring the Rain: This lady is amazing. Such faith. Such inspiration. So real. So honest. So awesome. I'm sure you are already subscribed. If not, do it now.


2. Joy from When Does Daddy Get Home: Joy has become a personal bloggy friend of mine. I would love to actually meet her in person one day. =)


3. Jon Acuff from Stuff Christians Like: Jon cracks me up on a regular basis and really moves me at least once a week (on serious Wednesdays). He has a real gift for inspiring through humor as well as through thought-provoking posts.


4. J Money from Budgest Are Sexy: J has some great insight into the world of personal finance and now with Love Drop fully underway, he has impressed me even more!


5. Ninja from Punch Debt in the Face: Ninja is so honest and open on his blog it feels like I already know him even though I have no idea what he looks like. He blogs life as he lives it and draws great little stick figures.


6. Jamie from Jamie the Very Worst Missionary: I love that she is so anti-what I grew up believing a missionary was "supposed" to look/sound/act like. And she is being used by God to do awesome work. And she blogs about it honestly and openly without mincing words. And she moves people, including me. Brilliant.


7. Dan from Single Dad Laughing: I have just recently been introduced to Dan's blog and am moved by each and every post. This man has a gift. He's a bit long-winded, but never while reading has he lost my interest.


8. Abraham and Molly Piper from 22 Words and Molly Piper respectively: Okay, I'm cheating on this one, but since they are husband and wife, I thought it might be allowed. Abraham posts the most crazy and amazing things on his post. And often, some really moving ones too. Molly has a gift for sharing the trials and joys of motherhood while showing off their adorable children. Yep...I'm cheating and using them both on this one.


9. Shaun Groves: Shaun is an awesome musician, amazing writer, outspoken advocate for Compassion International and seems to be a pretty cool husband and dad as well. I think he'd be really interesting to spend some time with.


10. Courtney from Women Living Well: Courtney's writing snagged me up and wouldn't let me go from the first post I read of hers. I really don't remember how I came across her blog, but I know I've been hooked ever since.

There are tons of others that I would love to meet, but these would make my day.

What about you? Who would you just be thrilled to meet in person?

Learning to Accept My Limitations

I have a serious confession to make. I'm afraid that it might disappoint you. I'm afraid that you might shake your head and "tsk" in my general direction. But in the spirit of full disclosure, I must make this confession to you, my readers.

I am not Superwoman.

I know. Shocking.

Wait, what? You aren't surprised?

Well I was when I first figured it out. It's a tough lesson to learn. Especially when you think you've got everything under control. When you think you are supposed to be able to do everything that everyone else does.

Let me tell you what I learned though.

Those people that you are trying to emulate? They are not Superwomen either. There is something in their lives they are sacrificing in order to do what they do. And if you are trying to be just like several Superwomen...who all have different focuses...you surely must realize that you can't be like ALL of them. They can't even do that!

Here are the things I have felt the need to be:

Wife. Yep. My husband needs me. I don't mean he is helplessly useless. But he married me because he wanted me to be in his life and spend time with him. I am called to be his friend, his lover, his support, his cheerleader, his helpmate, his biggest fan, his encouragement, his sounding board, his support. I cannot ever forget that.

Mom. I love my children. I am their mother. They need me to be everything that a mother entails. This in itself is very multi-dimensional and overlaps into many of the categories below. It includes teacher, disciplinarian, cheerleader, friend, doctor, and even just a set of arms to snuggle into.

Engineer. Yes. I am an engineer. An engineering manager these days. This is something that I love to do. I love to use my talents and strengths to help a company succeed. I like using practical and critical thinking skills to tackle a task and create new and innovative ways to approach matters.

Homemaker. Even though I love my career, I feel the responsibility of making our house a home falls to me. I was brought up very traditionally and feel that the cooking/cleaning/ and all matters of the home fall to me. Not that Chip doesn't help--he's actually a HUGE contributor. Not that I don't want him to help, as I am VERY grateful for how wonderful he is. But the responsibility for making sure that it happens is mine.

Cleaner. This is part of homemaking, but it is a huge part for me. I'm a bit picky. When our house is not clean enough to eat off of the floor, my soul is not at rest. These days, my soul is more restless than I like.

Musician. I grew up soaking in music at all times. I love playing. I love singing. I was once much better at both than I am now. This is something I truly love doing, but has been neglected over the last few years when other parts of life have taken over.

Cheerleader. No. Not the kind in ponytails and skirts (seriously...no one wants to see that), but the mom on the sideline or in the audience cheering on my children in their activities. The attentive wife who attends and is enraptured by all of my husband's musical demonstrations.

Classroom Mom. I can't be there to cut out felt for craft time. But I want to send homemade cookies. I want to help with Christmas parties. I want to chaperone a field trip.

Volunteer. I want to help out at our church. I want to help out our neighborhood. I want to give time to causes that I believe in.

Friend. I want to have a girl's night. I want to have friends to chat with and have private jokes with. I want to go our for dessert or laugh over a pedicure with girlfriends.

Gardener. I don't have a green thumb or anything, but I'd love for the outside of our home to look really nice and cared about with brightly colored seasonal flowers and manicured landscaping.

Craft Aficionado. I want to be crafty. I want to make things that impress other people and make our home unique. I want to teach these skills to our children while getting to spend quality time with them. I want to offer one of a kind gifts to friends and family that were made with love and personalization.


And the point of this ridiculous list is that I cannot possibly be all of these things. At least not at the same time. And that is okay. I mean, I know that, but I must truly believe that.

• I must believe that it is okay to have a pile of laundry that needs to be done while I go on a date with my husband.
• I must believe that it is okay to have store bought cookies because I had to work later than allowed me to bake them from scratch.
• I must believe that it is okay that the we seriously need some new pine straw for our landscaping because I'm choosing to sit on bleachers and cheer for my son and his teammates on the t-ball team.
• I must believe that it is okay to say "no" to a volunteer opportunity just so I can spend time on a craft for our home.
• I must believe that it is okay to take a day off of work to shop and have lunch with a friend.
• I must believe that it is okay to leave my children in the church nursery so that I can volunteer somewhere else during the worship service.
• I must believe that it is okay to leave the husband to entertain himself while I plant some lovely annuals in the front yard.
• I must believe that it is even okay to drop all of these things (even the kids--there I said it and you can lash out in the comments if you want) just so I can take a long hot soak in a bubble bath and relax.

It's also okay for your children to see that dad sometimes wins quality time with you over them. It's okay for your children to see that the house can wait to be cleaned until you have helped a neighbor out. It's okay for your children to see that you can take a day off of work just to spend time with them alone. All of these things are good. In fact, all of these things are HEALTHY for them to see. They need to see that mom is a person. That mom is more than a worker bee.

Dropping one for another is nothing to feel guilty about as long as it is not always the same thing getting dropped. Nourish your relationships. Grow yourself. Be everything you want to be. Just realize that you cannot be all of these things at the same time.

And be okay with that.

I know that is what I will be trying to do.

And I Really Don't Think I'm Missing a Thing

You want to know how incredibly cheap frugal I am?

I don't have a smart phone. In fact, I barely have what would be considered to be a phone these days. I have one of those basic My-last-phone-died-and-I-need-another-one-so-I-signed-a-contract-just-to-get-the-base-model-free-one. Yes. That one.

I could get web service if I wanted to on this phone. But I don't. In the 13 years that I have owned a cell phone of some type I have never felt the need to be on the internet at any time and place of my choosing. Seriously. If I need to be on the internet I can do that stuff at home. Sure it's great sometimes for directions or information, but that's why we have a map and 1-800-free-411.

I don't Twitter from my phone. In fact, I barely Tweet at all. (sorry all of you adoring fans out there)

I don't Facebook from my phone. I typically check into Facebook 4 or 5 days a week from my home computer to see what is going on in the lives of people I actually know and care about. I sometimes post items regarding what is going on around this blog on my non-personal account. And although I should be better about that for those of you who do care, I just don't feel the need.

I honestly am okay with the fact that not everyone I've never met knows what I'm doing at all times in the day. I don't think I'm that interesting.

We have our mobile service with Verizon. It was once with Alltel, and we had the 10-circle of friends we could call for free (not using minutes). After the merger with Verizon, we still have that circle of 10 friends that we can change on a regular basis to suit our calling needs. And we can call anyone who has Verizon service without using minutes. And all of the people listed above we can text without any charges.

You know who else we text? Nobody. Seriously. If we see we're going to need to text other people, we add them to our 10 friend list. Free. Simple. Done.

So while all of the crazy people out there who feel they need the latest and greatest app for their smart phone, you go ahead and download that baby for a couple of dollars. Then you pay that premium associated with using your 3G/4G network at all times/locations. And you go ahead and sacrifice real face time with friends and loved ones.

I will keep paying for our pitifully simple service and enjoy time with those same people in person. Or via a phone call where we can have a real conversation rather than one in less than 140 characters at a time. And I'll use all that money I'm not spending on mobile service elsewhere.

And I won't miss a thing.

What about you? Can you not live without your social media on you at all times? Talk to me.

Photo credit: judy_breck

WFMW - Disclosure Policy

Recently (yeah...I really can't remember when) the FTC decided to really tighten the reigns on bloggers and their disclosure of what posts, links, and advertisements were endorsed and/or sponsored by the company being discussed. Suddenly there was a calling to start including a disclosure policy on each post.

Well, there are various bloggers that adhere to these guidelines in various ways, but I'll tell you how I am doing it.

I have been posting a caveat on each post that included any type of sponsorship (such as free items for review and/or giveaway). Today I set up my official disclosure policy that I can leave permanently linked on my blog and just reference that in each post.



If you ever receive any compensation for your blog (whether it be cash, credits, free items, etc) you need to be disclosing as well.

It's really simple. Go to http://www.disclosurepolicy.org/ and click on the Generate Policy tab or button. Pick the choices that best fit your blog's circumstances and make your own policy.

Easy. And it covers you.

And if you use blogger, just in case you don't already know, there is a simple way to make a permanent page now (like a Disclosure page or an About Me page). Go to your Dashboard and click the Posting Tab. Then select "Edit Pages." Create a new page and publish. Easily link to it now either manually or using one of the tools they offer.

So simple! You can find mine linked both in my middle column under my Additional Info section and at the bottom via a Disclosure button from http://www.disclosurepolicy.org/ .

So although the Works for Me Wednesday was themed this week, I broke out of the theme and posted about Disclosure Policies. Head on over to We Are THAT Family to see some favorite summer recipes (and other topics from those who also broke out on their own this week) that work for others!

In Remembrance...

This is a repost from my blog from Memorial Day last year.

Today is Memorial Day. Although most of us "celebrate" with a day off work highlighted by a grill, a pool, and friends, this day really should (in my opinion) be held as a much more reverent occasion. Maybe it's because I am married to a veteran. Maybe it is because said veteran is an Army bugler who has provided the rite of TAPS at more funerals than either of us care to count. Maybe it is because many family members of mine have been in the military. Maybe because I live in a military town and am surrounded by families who are short a member currently because of current deployments.

It really does not matter whether you have a family member who is currently serving or if you've never even met a service man/woman (although, I'd love to meet you because I don't think that exists!). Either way, we are all free due to many, many people sacrificing what is most sacred (their very lives) for the greater cause of freedom and liberty. Not only have those who have been lost to the conflicts made the sacrifice, however, but also those they left behind.

In honor of all of the men and women who have made it possible for us to be allowed to sit here and type whatever we want (yes, even those people who insult them and trample on their efforts), I wanted to post a notes in honor of this holiday and those whom it represents:

In Flanders Fields

--Major John McCrae

In Flanders Fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw T

he torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields.

Memorial Day

- C W Johnson

We walked among the crosses

Where our fallen soldiers lay.

And listened to the bugle

As TAPS began to play.

The Chaplin led a prayer

We stood with heads bowed low.

And I thought of fallen comrades

I had known so long ago.

They came from every city

Across this fertile land.

That we might live in freedom.

They lie here 'neath the sand.

I felt a little guilty

My sacrifice was small.

I only lost a little time

But these men lost their all.

Now the services are over

For this Memorial Day.

To the names upon these crosses

I just want to say,

Thanks for what you've given

No one could ask for more.

May you rest with God in heaven

From now through evermore.

Some Rules of Etiquette for the Flag

*The flag should be displayed from sunrise to sunset.*Exception: the flag may be displayed at all times if it is illuminated during darkness.

*The flag should be protected from weather damage, so only an all-weather flag should be displayed during rain, snow, winds and other detriment weather.

*When a number of flags are grouped together, the U.S. flag should be at the center and at the highest point of the group.

*When a U.S. flag is displayed other than from a staff, it should be displayed flat, or suspended in such a way that its folds fall free.

*When displayed over a street, the flag should be placed so it faces north or east.

*When displayed from a staff projecting from a building, the union of the flag should be placed at the peak of the staff, unless the flag is at half staff.

*When displayed on a speaker’s platform against a wall, the flag should be placed above and behind the speaker with the union of the flag in the upper left-hand corner (as the audience faces the flag).

*When used to cover a casket, it should be placed so that the union is at the head and over the left shoulder. The flag should never be lowered into the grave and should not be allowed to touch the ground.

*During any ceremony when the U.S. flag is passing in parade, all persons should face the flag, stand at attention and salute. This means that a man should remove his hat and hold it with the right hand over the heart. Men without hats, and ladies should salute by placing the right hand over the heart. This salute should take place while the flag passes.

*When a U.S. flag is flown at half-staff, it should always be hoisted to the peak then lowered to half staff position. When taking it down for the evening, raise it to the peak again then lower.

Freedom Is Not Free

-Kelly Strong

I watched the flag pass by one day.

It fluttered in the breeze.

A young Marine saluted it,

and then he stood at ease.

I looked at him in uniform

So young, so tall, so proud,

With hair cut square and eyes alert

He'd stand out in any crowd.

I thought how many men like him

Had fallen through the years.

How many died on foreign soil?

How many mothers' tears?

How many pilots' planes shot down?

How many died at sea?

How many foxholes were soldiers' graves?

No, freedom isn't free.

I heard the sound of TAPS one night,

When everything was still

I listened to the bugler play

And felt a sudden chill.

I wondered just how many times

That TAPS had meant "Amen,"

When a flag had draped a coffin

Of a brother or a friend.

I thought of all the children,

Of the mothers and the wives,

Of fathers, sons and husbands

With interrupted lives.

I thought about a graveyard

At the bottom of the sea

Of unmarked graves in Arlington.

No, freedom isn't free.

TAPS

-Major General Daniel Butterfield

Day is done...

Gone the sun

From the lake...

From the hills...

From the sky.

All is well...

Safely rest

God is nigh.

Fading light...

Dims the sight

And a star...

Gems the sky...

Gleaming bright

From afar...

Drawing nigh

Falls the night.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier:

Throughout history, there are many armed forces members who have died in numerous wars without their remains being identified. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is symbolic and represents the war grave for unidentified soldiers. The tomb in Washington DC houses the remains of an unknown soldier from WWI, WWII, and Korea. The soldier representing Vietnam was exhumed after identification was made via DNA. Due to DNA records, it is not expected that any further soldiers will be unidentified in future conflicts and therefore there are no plans to add additional soldiers in the future. The inscription on the tomb often says that they are “known but to God.” The Tomb Guards are an elict group of soldiers who dedicate not only their military career, but some aspects of their entire lives, to honoring the fallen. To further understand their level of commitment, please read this description and these FAQs regarding their duties.

Information acquired from Roswell Remembers, Memorial Day Tribute, and USMemorialDay.org

Photo credit: mordoc, rfirman, tomlara

Kids Birthdays?

I am currently working on putting together my son's birthday party (he'll be three next week!). Since he's a huge Thomas fan, we're going with a train theme (although not necessarily a Thomas theme). I've been searching all over the internet for tips/tricks/hints at having a low-cost birthday party for him, but I'm going to open the comment section for suggestions.

What's the best way to save $$ for child's birthday party?

What are some tips that you have used before to save $$?

Lunch or no lunch, that is the question...

Any ideas you can offer would be much appreciated. When all is said and done, I'll post an update on how we fared.

Photo credit: nazreth

Money Hacks Carnival #17 - Music of the '80s

Ahhh...the '80s. It was a time of the death of disco and the emergence of hair bands and bubblegum pop music. It was marked by wild long hair as well as the birth of the yuppie. It was a time of (eventual) financial abundance. Many people began truly indulging--in material wealth, themselves, substances, and even make up (yes...men and women).

It is a time that will live in entertainment as very distinct. One identifying mark of the '80s is the music. That's where we will spend today's Money Hacks Carnival...in the music of the '80s, which, interestingly enough, talked an awful lot about money.

I wanted to note that there are some people that have more than one entry this week. Last week's carnival was posted a few days early and these people had some great posts that did not get included due to this error.


Before we really dive in, I just to make sure that we're all still focusing on the carnival here, I want to post my Editor's Picks:

*Retirehappy presents Naming Beneficiaries on Retirement Plans posted at My Retirement Blog. Okay, so we don't want to have to think about it, but this is information we all need to be on top of!

*Mike Leonard presents Passive income? Look at your passive expenses first posted at Until Debt Do Us Part. Great recommendation--look at your spending rather before trying to find out how to make more.

*J. Savings presents I'm back, and ready to spill the beans baby! posted at Budgets are Sexy. Great post. I love seeing testimonials on how resorts and vacation packages work. They can be very smart money-wise, but it helps to see the traps that others encountered! Congratulations, by the way!

*Silicon Valley Blogger presents Save and Invest Enough For Your Retirement: Are You On Track? posted at The Digerati Life. Although it seems like a long way off for me, I know that I have to stay focused on my retirement in order to survive when it comes!

*Brian Chin presents Why Gas Price Increases Aren't Really Affecting Your Finances posted at beechin financial consultant. Great perspective!

*Lisa Spinelli presents New Website Outs Companies With Poor Corporate Responsibility Records Greener Pastures: Personal Finance posted at Greener Pastures. I loved this post! It is wonderful that all of this information is gathered in one place, and I was so excited that Lisa pointed me to it! Thanks!


Now...on with the fun:

CAREER: 9 to 5 by Dolly Parton (1980)

It was a movie and a song. It was a great example of '80s media--silly and without real purpose.

Workin' 9 to 5
What a way to make a livin'
Barely gettin' by
Its all takin'
And no givin'
They just use your mind
And they never give you credit
Its enough to drive you
Crazy if you let it


*Dorian Wales presents The Personal Financier: Actively Manage Your Career to Stay On Top of Your Game posted at The Personal Financier.

*FFB presents By What Cover Is Your Book Judged? posted at Free From Broke.

*Ellesse presents Free Career, Business & Trade Magazines for Your Career & Economic Goals posted at Goal Setting College.


DEBT/CREDIT: Material Girl by Madonna (1985)

Seriously, this song pretty much described the attitude that many people had at the time... and some people are still suffering from the fallout.

Living in a material world
And I am a material girl
You know that we are living in a material world
And I am a material girl


*Shana presents Are You Ready to Budget? A Quiz posted at Smart Easy Money.

*Olen presents Pay Off Your Mortgage - Fast! posted at Get Out Of Debt.

*FMF presents The Ins and Outs of Reward Credit Cards posted at Free Money Finance.

*Mr Credit Card presents Cash Back Credit Card Video Guide posted at Ask Mr Credit Card.

*Ray presents The Best Credit Cards For College Students posted at Money Blue Book: Personal Finance Blog.

*Ryan Taylor presents Stop Bill Collector Harassment posted at Millionaire Money Habits.

*Mike presents Is it worth it to sign up for a Student Advantage card? posted at Living the Cheap Life.

*Joe Manausa presents Loan Limits - Contact Your Senator Today! posted at Tallahassee Real Estate Blog.

*Jose De Jesus MD presents Check Your Credit Score posted at Physician Entrepreneur.

*Erica Douglass presents When Should You Buy Real Estate — And When Is It Better to Rent? posted at erica.biz - Erica Douglass challenges you to change your life!.


ECONOMY: Livin' On A Prayer by Bon Jovi (1986)

You can't talk about '80s music without reviewing a hair band...and Bon Jovi was one of the most talented and most successful of the bunch. They have proven their success by altering their music enough to stay popular even until today.


She says we've got to hold on to what we've got
cause it doesn't make a difference if we make it or not
We've got each other and that's a lot
For love - well give it a shot
Whooah, were half way there
Whooah, livin' on a prayer
Take my hand and well make it - I swear
Whooah, livin' on a prayer

*hank presents Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge Aren't Saving You Any Money On Their New $2.99 Incentive My Investing Blog posted at My Investing Blog.


INCOME: Money for Nothing by Dire Straits (1985)

Gotta' love a song about a working man begrudgingly observing the celebrity lifestyle. And this was a mind-altering video at the time.

We gotta install microwave ovens
Custom kitchen deliveries
We gotta move these refrigerators
We gotta move these colour TVs

*Webmaster_1 presents Avoiding Make Money From Home Scams posted at The Entrepreneurs Online Magazine.

*Dave presents Can You Make Money Using the Internet? posted at Cheapo Groovo.

*The Shark Investor presents The Five Essential Elements Of Automated Income Generators posted at The Shark Investor.

*Patrick Schwerdtfeger presents 7 Steps to High-Conversion Sales Copy posted at Tactical Execution.


TAX: She Works Hard for Her Money by Donna Summer (1983)

She works hard for the money
So hard for it honey
She works hard for the money
So you better treat her right
She works hard for the money
So hard for it honey
She works hard for the money
So you better treat her right

*RC presents How to Put Next Year’s Tax Refund to Work for You Right Now Think Your Way to Wealth posted at Think Your Way to Wealth.


SAVING: Working for the Weekend by Loverboy (1981)

So this song was not about saving money, so I am stretching here. Still a cool song that screams "80s!"

Everybody's working for the weekend
Everybody wants a little romance
Everybody's goin' off the deep end
Everybody needs a second chance,
oh...You want a piece of my heart
You better start from start
You wanna be in the show
Come on baby let's go

*Joe Caterisano presents how to save money using grocery coupons posted at Penny Pinching.

*Garret presents 7 Ways To Save Money On Your Fuel Bill posted at Personal Finance Basics.

*Body For Life Results presents 5 Money Saving Tips To Help You Survive The Credit Crunch posted at Tame Your Debt.

*Katie Gregg presents Powering Down posted at Frugal Fabulous.

*Rhiana Jones presents Book Review: Make-A-Mix posted at A Frugal Life - Just the two of us.

*Northern Cheapskate presents Northern Cheapskate: Tips for a Tight Traveling Budget posted at Northern Cheapskate.

*Card Blogger presents The Best Gas Rebate Credit Cards posted at Credit Card Blog.

*Aryn presents Save Money with Travel Rewards posted at Sound Money Matters.

*dmh presents Unwritten Rules of Bringing Your Own Wine posted at Daily Money Hack.

*Bryce presents Haircuts posted at Save and Conquer.

*Jamy presents The art of creative home budgeting. posted at Wealth=Wise(Investments+Strategies).

*Faron Benoit presents 15 Cheap Romantic Date Ideas posted at Financial Learn.

*Broke Grad Student presents 6 Ways A Boyfriend/Girlfriend Saves You Money posted at Broke Grad Student.

*Madison presents Free Blockbuster Movies posted at My Dollar Plan.

*Christopher Johnson presents Legacy Fund - Perpetuity posted at christopheraaronjohnson.net.

*TooSmart presents Dress for Less: The sub $5 shirt. posted at Too Smart to Live Like This.

*Brian Chin presents 4 Ways to Find Cheap Airfare on Flights posted at beechin financial consultant.

*Amy @ The Q Family presents Catch a Reading Bug this Summer posted at The Q Family Adventure.


INVESTING: I Wanna' Be Rich by Calloway (1989)

This one just gets stuck in your head.

I want money lots and lots of money
I want the pie in the sky
I want money lots and lots of money
So don't be asking me why
I wanna be rich oh ;
I wanna be rich
I wanna be rich oh;
I wanna be rich
For a little love peace and happiness

*KCLau presents Picking the right Structured Fund posted at KCLau's Money Tips.

*Aussie presents Australian Stock Market Investing posted at Australian Stock Market Investing.

*jim presents TradeKing Review posted at Blueprint for Financial Prosperity.

*MoneyKing presents Real Estate Profits And Losses: Your Tenant’s Kids. Scenario 38. posted at The Money Kings - RULE your money at home, at work, and at play!.

*KCLau presents Ride on the Oil Palm Industry Boom posted at KCLau's Money Tips.

*Raag Vamdatt presents Want to retire early? Here's what you need :: RaagVamdatt.com :: Financial Planning demystified posted at RaagVamdatt.com.

*thewild1 presents To Buy or Sell? posted at The Wild Investor.


OTHER: For the Love of Money by The O'Jays

Okay, I cheated. This song is not from the 1980s, but how can you talk about money songs and not cover the song that is now most popular as the theme song for The Apprentice? Donald Trump has practically adopted it as his own.

Money money money money, money (x6)
Some people got to have it
Some people really need it
Listen to me y'all, do things, do things, do bad things with it
You wanna do things, do things, do things, good things with it
Talk about cash money, money
Talk about cash money- dollar bills, y'all

*Ted presents Best Place to Sell Textbooks posted at CampusGrotto College Advice.

*John Crickett presents Is Now The Time To Buy A House? posted at Find Financial Freedom.

*The Financial Blogger presents Financial Super Powers Series: Telepathy and Mind Control posted at The Financial Blogger.

*Heather Allen presents Giving Can Breed Dependency. posted at The DebtFree Playbook Blog.

*Financial Goal presents 12 New Essentials We Think We Need posted at Goal of Financial Freedom.

*Chief Family Officer presents Review: MyPoints.com posted at Chief Family Officer.

*Ryan Suenaga presents The Readers Ask: Where’s Best for Chicken Money? posted at Uncommon Cents.

*Heather Johnson presents Four Fabulous Ways to Be Happier posted at Miguel Trujillo.

*chica with issues presents Looking for a discount pays off, but so does waiting posted at One Snarky Chica with Issues.

*GBlogger presents Success Stories: From Newly Divorced With A Negative Net Worth to $150,000 — In Two Years posted at CAN I GET RICH ON A SALARY.



Thanks for visiting! I hope you enjoyed reminiscing as much as I did. Submit your posts for next week's carnival, which will be held at My Investing Blog. Have a great week!

Since I Became a Mom...

In honor of Mommyfest 2008, here are five things I have learned since I became a Mom:


1.) Some of the vile, disgusting times of my life have occurred while changing my son's diapers...and they didn't even make me gag!

2.) My husband is the greatest Dad on earth. I knew he had the ability, but he has really fulfilled that potential.

3.) I can function on little to no sleep much more easily when I love what I'm doing (mommying).

4.) Projectile vomit can be more awe-inspiring than disgusting when it is your own child. You can sometimes even feel as if you need to brag about the distance gained.

5.) Rocks can be the topic of a discussion that lasts for 30 minutes or more.

Does God Want Me to Be a Loaf?

As you read this (if it is Sunday, that is), the Nespys will be on their way back home to Savannah from Orlando. I sure we will have had a wonderful time visiting close friends and reluctant to leave them, as we don't get to see them often. In the meantime, as we travel down the highway, speeding no doubt, and burning some expensive gasoline, I will leave you this to read:

Today I will drift from my usual subject matter. Today I will ponder in writing what I should do. If you don't want to read about a matter that I have been dealing with in my spiritual life, feel free to skip today's post, as tomorrow I will be back on my usual topic.

I really feel that God has been leading me to teach or lead. Not as a profession, mind you, but just in some capacity. The obvious lead was at church to lead women's groups or such--and it may lead to that as well or in the end, but right now I'm wondering if I should start another blog that would be a teaching/learning tool for both me and readers. Frequently when I am reading my Bible or just going through my life experiences, I think of things that I would like to share, but I have no one to share them with (in a teaching type environment). It is nothing that really fits the context of this blog, but creating a new one is a real possibility. Nespy would probably think I was crazy, as he (and I sometimes) think this one is becoming a bit of an obsession from time to time.

However, would you be interested in reading it (yes, I realize the topics would really influence if you read or stayed around)? Do you think God would ask me to write a blog? I am really nobody and have no training to teach His Word. However, that is really not an argument, as He is FREQUENTLY calling the lowly to teach and lead (shepherds as kings and fishermen as the foundation of Christianity?!). Then I think that I would be scared to death to do it. Wouldn't I be responsible for everything that I typed and how it might influence others? Would my faults get in the way of His glory? It would be so easy to let my shortcomings get in the way.

"How could I make a difference?" I asked Him one day. Then I thought I heard Him speak to me through a Biblical account that I learned as a child in Sunday School and have heard about over and over again throughout my life.

There are two occasions where Jesus fed huge crowds with fishes and loaves. You can see Jesus reference both in Mark 8:19-20. Jesus took just a meal for a few and fed thousands upon thousands with it. He took a little and provided for many with it. That's how He works. He takes a little and multiplies it for His glory. He fed those who were hungry. Is he calling me to be His instrument to do the same? Is He calling me to be a loaf?

Photo credit: in the shadow of za'ha'dum