Jerri's Empty Nest
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Prayers
Sending thoughts and prayers to those affected by Hurricane Sandy. Mourning the loss of life and praying for the safety of the first responders. Stay safe, everyone!
Monday, October 29, 2012
A Blessing
This morning I am honored and thrilled to introduce my new granddaughter! Grandma loves you!
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Five Minutes!
Here's a quick recipe that will take you no more than five to ten minutes to prepare! That leaves you plenty of time to enjoy your weekend!
No-Bake Yummies
Ingredients:
1 pkg (12 oz) butterscotch morsels
3/4 cup peanut butter
4 cups corn flakes, crushed
Directions:
Melt butterscotch morsels on low heat and add peanut butter. Mix well, then add crushed corn flakes. Drop by teaspoonful on to wax paper and allow to set.
Enjoy!!!
No-Bake Yummies
Ingredients:
1 pkg (12 oz) butterscotch morsels
3/4 cup peanut butter
4 cups corn flakes, crushed
Directions:
Melt butterscotch morsels on low heat and add peanut butter. Mix well, then add crushed corn flakes. Drop by teaspoonful on to wax paper and allow to set.
Enjoy!!!
Friday, October 26, 2012
The Weekend
What do you have on tap for the weekend? It seems that most of the Eastern seaboard will be awaiting the impact of Hurricane Sandy. I'm sending thoughts and prayers that everyone remains safe and sound.
For myself, I'll be awaiting word on the birth of my latest granddaughter. That means being glued to my phone and Facebook!! I'm a few states away so everything has to be electronic. I would give anything to be there but the budget just doesn't allow!
The time I'm going to spend waiting? I swear I'm going to use it getting caught up on emails and paperwork!
How about you? Anything exciting going on? Whatever it is, I hope you have a fabulous weekend!
Love,
Jerri
For myself, I'll be awaiting word on the birth of my latest granddaughter. That means being glued to my phone and Facebook!! I'm a few states away so everything has to be electronic. I would give anything to be there but the budget just doesn't allow!
The time I'm going to spend waiting? I swear I'm going to use it getting caught up on emails and paperwork!
How about you? Anything exciting going on? Whatever it is, I hope you have a fabulous weekend!
Love,
Jerri
Thursday, October 25, 2012
A Shrinking World
I spoke recently with a friend in the midst of a nasty divorce. She mentioned how her world was shrinking.
What does she mean by shrinking? Friends that have disappeared off the face of the earth, family that has turned their backs now that she doesn't have the income or resources she had while married, and friends that don't have time for her unless she does exactly what THEY want her to do or say.
In any divorce situation, you expect some loss of friendships. There are the couple friends you had together who either choose sides or disappear altogether. The ones that really hurt are the relationships that disappear due to the change in financial circumstances. As she wondered...would this be the same reaction these loved ones would have if she died? Would they be focused solely on the inheritance then forget about her? Divorce is a death in a way and you see a lot of the same reactions from those you assumed had your back.
I've experienced some of it. Obviously not the money part because I don't and didn't have any! I do, however, have friends who no longer seem to have time for me based only on location. Now that I'm not just right down the street or on their way to or from somewhere, I'm no longer convenient for them. When I was conveniently located for them, I saw or heard from them frequently. Now that I have started over in another state, even a quick email seems to be too much effort.
Divorce is a major life event. It's on the list of those stressors that cause heart attacks. There's a valid reason for that. It is one of the times in your life when you need your friends and family the most. For my friend, I am hopefully one of those that pulls closer, not farther away.
Love,
Jerri
What does she mean by shrinking? Friends that have disappeared off the face of the earth, family that has turned their backs now that she doesn't have the income or resources she had while married, and friends that don't have time for her unless she does exactly what THEY want her to do or say.
In any divorce situation, you expect some loss of friendships. There are the couple friends you had together who either choose sides or disappear altogether. The ones that really hurt are the relationships that disappear due to the change in financial circumstances. As she wondered...would this be the same reaction these loved ones would have if she died? Would they be focused solely on the inheritance then forget about her? Divorce is a death in a way and you see a lot of the same reactions from those you assumed had your back.
I've experienced some of it. Obviously not the money part because I don't and didn't have any! I do, however, have friends who no longer seem to have time for me based only on location. Now that I'm not just right down the street or on their way to or from somewhere, I'm no longer convenient for them. When I was conveniently located for them, I saw or heard from them frequently. Now that I have started over in another state, even a quick email seems to be too much effort.
Divorce is a major life event. It's on the list of those stressors that cause heart attacks. There's a valid reason for that. It is one of the times in your life when you need your friends and family the most. For my friend, I am hopefully one of those that pulls closer, not farther away.
Love,
Jerri
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
I'm A Chicken!!
The other night I was outside on the patio and encountered one of the animals that I sincerely cannot find it in my heart to love. I'll admit...I turned tail and head back in to the house as soon as my little legs could carry me. I am an animal lover, but I just can't get over my fear and distaste for this particular species!
Yep, the possum. I don't care what anyone says about them. I think they are one of the most vile, evil looking creatures I've ever encountered. I will stay in my house just to avoid them. I mean, look at that face!! These are NOT cuddly creatures!!
I'm publicly admitting I turn tail and run when I see one. I don't like them, I don't want to be near them, and nothing will change my opinion.
I am a chicken!
Love,
Jerri
Yep, the possum. I don't care what anyone says about them. I think they are one of the most vile, evil looking creatures I've ever encountered. I will stay in my house just to avoid them. I mean, look at that face!! These are NOT cuddly creatures!!
I'm publicly admitting I turn tail and run when I see one. I don't like them, I don't want to be near them, and nothing will change my opinion.
I am a chicken!
Love,
Jerri
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Buried Alive
Help!!!!
I don't know what happened but I'm buried alive! I can't see the top of my desk, my email accounts are jammed full, and I'm pretty sure there are a million things I've neglected to do, people I haven't responded to, and I'm overwhelmed!
It's amazing that no matter what system you put in place, what good intentions you have...a healthy dose of life can blow it all to hell. What is that saying? When you make plans, God laughs.
Yep, that's the truth. My plans have flown out the window and right now I'm just trying to keep my head above water (or paperwork, as the case may be). Above all, I have a fantastic new idea rattling around in my head to write but I don't know when I'll manage to do it unless I start writing in the dead of night!
To my author friends...how do you carve out time to write when real life keeps getting in the way? To everyone else...what do you do to get back on track when you've completely lost your way?
Any and all suggestions desperately needed and sincerely appreciated!!
Love,
Jerri
I don't know what happened but I'm buried alive! I can't see the top of my desk, my email accounts are jammed full, and I'm pretty sure there are a million things I've neglected to do, people I haven't responded to, and I'm overwhelmed!
It's amazing that no matter what system you put in place, what good intentions you have...a healthy dose of life can blow it all to hell. What is that saying? When you make plans, God laughs.
Yep, that's the truth. My plans have flown out the window and right now I'm just trying to keep my head above water (or paperwork, as the case may be). Above all, I have a fantastic new idea rattling around in my head to write but I don't know when I'll manage to do it unless I start writing in the dead of night!
To my author friends...how do you carve out time to write when real life keeps getting in the way? To everyone else...what do you do to get back on track when you've completely lost your way?
Any and all suggestions desperately needed and sincerely appreciated!!
Love,
Jerri
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Three Branches
I think one of the things that has caught my attention this election season (besides the utter lack of civility and respect) is the lack of knowledge most people seem to have about how our government functions.
I have seen so many posts on various social media showing people's misconceptions on what each branch of government does, is responsible for, and has absolutely no power to accomplish. Honestly, I'm not sure if it is actual ignorance of the Constitution or just people caught up in political rhetoric.
For a brief reminder, the three branches are Executive, Legislative, and Judicial. Each has separate powers granted by the Constitution. Does anyone remember their civics lessons from elementary school? If not, here's a refresher lesson from Schoolhouse Rock: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_foQoCHQq8
From some of the statements and assumptions I've seen...I believe there is a true need for Schoolhouse Rock to be re-aired immediately!!!
Whether red or blue, conservative or liberal, male or female, white or black...the hate, fear, and ignorance being expressed in this election will only result in one outcome...the American people lose. Education is, and always has been the answer.
And those are my random thoughts this morning...
I have seen so many posts on various social media showing people's misconceptions on what each branch of government does, is responsible for, and has absolutely no power to accomplish. Honestly, I'm not sure if it is actual ignorance of the Constitution or just people caught up in political rhetoric.
For a brief reminder, the three branches are Executive, Legislative, and Judicial. Each has separate powers granted by the Constitution. Does anyone remember their civics lessons from elementary school? If not, here's a refresher lesson from Schoolhouse Rock: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_foQoCHQq8
From some of the statements and assumptions I've seen...I believe there is a true need for Schoolhouse Rock to be re-aired immediately!!!
Whether red or blue, conservative or liberal, male or female, white or black...the hate, fear, and ignorance being expressed in this election will only result in one outcome...the American people lose. Education is, and always has been the answer.
And those are my random thoughts this morning...
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Oldie but Goodie
Making lunch today, I had a thought. There are things from our childhood that retain their appeal no matter how many years have passed.
For me today, it was Campbell's soup. To me, tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches will always be one of my favorite comfort foods. It brings back childhood memories, warms both the body and soul, and is a quick, easy fix for what ails you.
Even better is having a book next to me while I eat. Granted, this is best if you're alone...people tend to get a bit offended if your nose is in a book at a shared dinner table! As the weather cools, I'm looking forward to more of these meals and treats like peppermint tea.
It's almost snuggle weather...what are you looking forward to doing?
Love,
Jerri
For me today, it was Campbell's soup. To me, tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches will always be one of my favorite comfort foods. It brings back childhood memories, warms both the body and soul, and is a quick, easy fix for what ails you.
Even better is having a book next to me while I eat. Granted, this is best if you're alone...people tend to get a bit offended if your nose is in a book at a shared dinner table! As the weather cools, I'm looking forward to more of these meals and treats like peppermint tea.
It's almost snuggle weather...what are you looking forward to doing?
Love,
Jerri
Monday, October 15, 2012
The Pink Ribbon
A while ago, quite a few people were angered by the actions of the Susan G. Komen foundation. I saw numerous posts saying people would no longer support them and I understand that sentiment.
However, use of the pink ribbon on products in October is not limited to just the Susan G. Komen foundation. If you choose not to support one organization or another, always check the package before you purchase.
The pink ribbon is used during October by a large number of breast cancer charities. When opting to purchase a pink ribbon product, the specific charity will be listed on the package. You can still support breast cancer awareness this month without giving your money to an organization that does not share your views.
Also remember, the Susan G. Komen foundation did reverse their decision and revamped their administration. Just a thought to keep in mind.
It's October...Buy Pink...and Fight like a girl!!!!!
Love,
Jerri
However, use of the pink ribbon on products in October is not limited to just the Susan G. Komen foundation. If you choose not to support one organization or another, always check the package before you purchase.
The pink ribbon is used during October by a large number of breast cancer charities. When opting to purchase a pink ribbon product, the specific charity will be listed on the package. You can still support breast cancer awareness this month without giving your money to an organization that does not share your views.
Also remember, the Susan G. Komen foundation did reverse their decision and revamped their administration. Just a thought to keep in mind.
It's October...Buy Pink...and Fight like a girl!!!!!
Love,
Jerri
Monday, October 8, 2012
Mundane Monday
Today is a Mundane Monday for me. Wait until you see my oh so exciting list for today!
1. Get gas for my truck.
2. Clean out my email.
3. Pay bills.
4. Fold laundry.
5. Switch spring/summer wardrobe to fall/winter wardrobe.
Can you feel the excitement in the air? Bleah.
The truth is...not every day is filled with thrilling, fun adventures. The blessing is that we have one more day. Not everyone is so lucky.
With that thought, I'm going to put a smile on my face, suck down some more coffee, and start hitting that to-do list. I'm going to make the most of this Mundane Monday!!
Love,
Jerri
1. Get gas for my truck.
2. Clean out my email.
3. Pay bills.
4. Fold laundry.
5. Switch spring/summer wardrobe to fall/winter wardrobe.
Can you feel the excitement in the air? Bleah.
The truth is...not every day is filled with thrilling, fun adventures. The blessing is that we have one more day. Not everyone is so lucky.
With that thought, I'm going to put a smile on my face, suck down some more coffee, and start hitting that to-do list. I'm going to make the most of this Mundane Monday!!
Love,
Jerri
Friday, October 5, 2012
Money, Money, Money, Money!!!
We all want it, we all need it, and today a new page has been added to Jerri's Empty Nest to help you get it!
At the top of the blog, you'll notice a new page titled "Money Makers". These are websites I visit on a daily basis to earn extra cash and gift cards. There are a few things you need to know:
1. You will NOT get rich using these websites. But if you wouldn't mind some extra Amazon money, or a few extra bucks every month...these are right up your alley!
2. When applicable, I have provided my personal referral link.
3. I spend about an hour day on these websites total. I have them set up to open when I open my browser each morning. This works best with Chrome as you can set up multiple home pages.
I will be adding more pages to my blog in the next couple of weeks but I thought I would start with the page that will actually pay YOU!
Have a fabulous weekend and go earn some cash!!
Love,
Jerri
At the top of the blog, you'll notice a new page titled "Money Makers". These are websites I visit on a daily basis to earn extra cash and gift cards. There are a few things you need to know:
1. You will NOT get rich using these websites. But if you wouldn't mind some extra Amazon money, or a few extra bucks every month...these are right up your alley!
2. When applicable, I have provided my personal referral link.
3. I spend about an hour day on these websites total. I have them set up to open when I open my browser each morning. This works best with Chrome as you can set up multiple home pages.
I will be adding more pages to my blog in the next couple of weeks but I thought I would start with the page that will actually pay YOU!
Have a fabulous weekend and go earn some cash!!
Love,
Jerri
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Off and On
Let me start by apologizing for the intermittent posts lately. I've had a lot going on at home and truly needed to take a break!
I'll be working on the blog over the next couple weeks. I want to add more pages, and hopefully increase both my traffic and my income. Please bear with me while I work on my baby...and stay tuned for hopefully a bigger and better blog!
I appreciate y'all's patience. Thanks for sticking with me!!
Love,
Jerri
I'll be working on the blog over the next couple weeks. I want to add more pages, and hopefully increase both my traffic and my income. Please bear with me while I work on my baby...and stay tuned for hopefully a bigger and better blog!
I appreciate y'all's patience. Thanks for sticking with me!!
Love,
Jerri
Monday, October 1, 2012
Survivor Guilt
It's October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
This month, I reflect on my own luck in having my cells found while they were still in columnar formation and hadn't yet invaded past the mammary ducts. While I personally was blessed to have them caught early, the same disease stole my best friend.
Judy was literally an angel on earth. She was patient, loving, and kind...always thinking of everyone else first. She was everything I aspire to be...a great mom, a fantastic grandmother, and the best friend a girl could ever ask for.
We're told as children that life isn't fair. But when I think of Judy and the fact she was taken far too soon...I can't help myself. I get angry because it just isn't fair. It isn't fair that she's gone. It isn't fair that her children and grandchildren have to live without her. It isn't fair that I got off so easy and it took her in a matter of days. It's not fair.
I keep waiting for that famous "time heals all wounds". In my opinion, it's a crock. Judy's loss is still a wide open wound that hurts every day. Cancer isn't fair.
Love yourself, love your mothers and grandmothers, love your friends. Take them to their mammograms. It IS that important.
Love,
Jerri
This month, I reflect on my own luck in having my cells found while they were still in columnar formation and hadn't yet invaded past the mammary ducts. While I personally was blessed to have them caught early, the same disease stole my best friend.
Judy was literally an angel on earth. She was patient, loving, and kind...always thinking of everyone else first. She was everything I aspire to be...a great mom, a fantastic grandmother, and the best friend a girl could ever ask for.
We're told as children that life isn't fair. But when I think of Judy and the fact she was taken far too soon...I can't help myself. I get angry because it just isn't fair. It isn't fair that she's gone. It isn't fair that her children and grandchildren have to live without her. It isn't fair that I got off so easy and it took her in a matter of days. It's not fair.
I keep waiting for that famous "time heals all wounds". In my opinion, it's a crock. Judy's loss is still a wide open wound that hurts every day. Cancer isn't fair.
Love yourself, love your mothers and grandmothers, love your friends. Take them to their mammograms. It IS that important.
Love,
Jerri
Monday, September 24, 2012
Wishes
With Christmas rapidly approaching, have you given any thought to what YOU want for Christmas? For most women, we spend the weeks leading up to the holiday providing for everyone else. When Christmas morning arrives, we frequently wake up to appliances or yet another set from Bath and Bodyworks.
This year, take charge of your wish list!! Amazon.com offers the opportunity to create your own wishlist. You can add any item on Amazon that your heart desires. In addition, Amazon offers a browser extension you can add. This extension allows you to add items from external sites to your Amazon wishlist so everything you want can be found in one place. I personally use Chrome and the extension works amazingly!
Head on over to Amazon and start creating your dream Christmas list! Trust me...your husband will thank you for taking the anxiety out of Christmas shopping!!
Love,
Jerri
This year, take charge of your wish list!! Amazon.com offers the opportunity to create your own wishlist. You can add any item on Amazon that your heart desires. In addition, Amazon offers a browser extension you can add. This extension allows you to add items from external sites to your Amazon wishlist so everything you want can be found in one place. I personally use Chrome and the extension works amazingly!
Head on over to Amazon and start creating your dream Christmas list! Trust me...your husband will thank you for taking the anxiety out of Christmas shopping!!
Love,
Jerri
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Friday, September 21, 2012
Frugal Shopping Online
One of the ways I save money online is through Ebates. If you enter your shopping destination through the ebates portal, you can receive anywhere from 1-20% cash back on your purchases.
Ebates has over 1500 participating stores offering cash back. These include Target, 1800 Flowers, and Amazon. Ebates also offers coupons when offered by the retailer for deals such as free shipping or a specified amount off of your order.
I have to be honest...half the time I forget to go through Ebates when I'm getting ready to shop! But it's one of my goals to remember and I have a note on my laptop to remind me!! I'm hoping to save a bundle this holiday season!!
If you're interested in getting cash back on your shopping, check out Ebates! Here is my personal referral link to get you started:
http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=OarlEl1m3jzjG%2BQeRzfY2Q%3D%3D
Happy (frugal) shopping!!
Love,
Jerri
Ebates has over 1500 participating stores offering cash back. These include Target, 1800 Flowers, and Amazon. Ebates also offers coupons when offered by the retailer for deals such as free shipping or a specified amount off of your order.
I have to be honest...half the time I forget to go through Ebates when I'm getting ready to shop! But it's one of my goals to remember and I have a note on my laptop to remind me!! I'm hoping to save a bundle this holiday season!!
If you're interested in getting cash back on your shopping, check out Ebates! Here is my personal referral link to get you started:
http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=OarlEl1m3jzjG%2BQeRzfY2Q%3D%3D
Happy (frugal) shopping!!
Love,
Jerri
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Celebration!
Keeping in the celebratory mood this week, here's a recipe for a drink perfect to toast with!
Lemon Blast
2 slices of fresh lemon
Sugar
1/2 ounce of limoncello
1/2 ounce of sour mix
4 ounces of ice cold prosecco
Use a lemon slice to moisten the edge of a champagne flute. Place sugar in a dish and press the rim of the champagne flute into the sugar to coat.
Slowly add 1/2 ounce of limoncelo, a squeeze of the fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of sour mix. Top with 4 ounces of prosecco. Garnish with the remaining lemon slice.
Salud!!!
Lemon Blast
2 slices of fresh lemon
Sugar
1/2 ounce of limoncello
1/2 ounce of sour mix
4 ounces of ice cold prosecco
Use a lemon slice to moisten the edge of a champagne flute. Place sugar in a dish and press the rim of the champagne flute into the sugar to coat.
Slowly add 1/2 ounce of limoncelo, a squeeze of the fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of sour mix. Top with 4 ounces of prosecco. Garnish with the remaining lemon slice.
Salud!!!
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
I Did It!!
Back at the beginning of the year, I told you about a goal I had made that I was keeping to myself for the time being. Now that it has been accomplished, I am so excited to share it with you.
I assembled some of my blog posts on social media in to an e-book. I uploaded it to Amazon and held a free event this weekend. During the free event, I made the bestseller list for Interpersonal Relationship books!!!!
This was the last ranking I saw though my son did inform me that I cracked the top 10 around 1 a.m. Tuesday morning!!!! I have my first review on Amazon and it's rated 5 stars!!
Because the free event was for a limited time, my stay on the bestseller list was also limited. But I can say "I am an Amazon bestselling author!!" This is a lifetime dream that came true!!!
Although the book is no longer free...it is currently available for just 99 cents!! You can find it here: Social Media Musings
I so wanted to share this achievement with you all...thank you for reading what I have to say and making this possible!!
Love,
Jerri
I assembled some of my blog posts on social media in to an e-book. I uploaded it to Amazon and held a free event this weekend. During the free event, I made the bestseller list for Interpersonal Relationship books!!!!
This was the last ranking I saw though my son did inform me that I cracked the top 10 around 1 a.m. Tuesday morning!!!! I have my first review on Amazon and it's rated 5 stars!!
Because the free event was for a limited time, my stay on the bestseller list was also limited. But I can say "I am an Amazon bestselling author!!" This is a lifetime dream that came true!!!
Although the book is no longer free...it is currently available for just 99 cents!! You can find it here: Social Media Musings
I so wanted to share this achievement with you all...thank you for reading what I have to say and making this possible!!
Love,
Jerri
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)