Toddlers & Tiara's

Toddlers & Tiaras

I absolutely LOVE watching TLC, NATGEO, Animal Planet, and so many other channels, as well as the shows they allow audiences to view. I love certain reality shows. Not the trash type ones, but the ones that let you into the real lives of other people. Whether it be Real Women of Dallas/Cincinnati, Ganglands, Border Wars, Sarah Palin’s Alaska…whatever. I really enjoy the shows that leave you thinking about life; the ones that can open your eyes to what others have been through, and have you wanting to make changes or know what roads not to go down. However, the one show that really gets under my skin, more than any other show, is Toddlers in Tiara’s.  Really? Moms and Dads out there that participate in this or even consider participating in this need to be slapped! How do you even find it acceptable to put your daughters through this mess? Yes, I am aware that every little girl wants to look, dress, and feel like a princess, I do have two of my own, but to subject your daughters to a world that they have no business in is just not right for many reasons. Your children need to hold onto their innocence as long as possible and embrace childhood. They do not need to be paraded onto stages, dressed in ten pounds of makeup, spray on tans, hair all made up and perfect, heels, “cone” boobs, and bratty attitudes. That is just beyond ridiculous. When do they have the opportunity to even act as a child? Oh wait, is it their time when they are practicing or about to go on stage, pitching a fit, with a pacifier in their mouth? If you are going to subject them to that type of environment then at least pull the pacifier out! They can’t be both baby and “grown” child. Make your pick.  Every time I see the commercials for this show I just cringe. It seems so unfair for these little girls. The one that really makes me go insane is the bratty girl, standing near the stage, screaming with a pacifier in her mouth. She needs to lose it! I could never bring myself to watch that show just because I feel it is wrong! Sure, put your daughters in beauty pageants, I see no issues with that. However, there is no reason to make your child live the life of Toddlers in Tiaras. No child at the toddler stage should know what a full out competition is or should know how to throw a tantrum because they did not win. No toddler should know the term “diet” and find it acceptable that they need to remain a certain size.

*Before any comments are made, no I am not an overweight woman. I am 5’3” and 115 lbs at most. I do have two daughters, they are 8 and 9 and both tall and slim. So, being overweight is not even an issue in my house. Yes, we eat healthy, but no, we do not stick with strict diets.* 

Children of the toddler age, and even older, need to be around children of their own ages. They should be learning how to properly communicate and their brains should be filled with subjects such as the alphabet, colors, shapes, numbers, Church and Jesus, children’s songs, family outings, and so much more. They should be outside playing at the park, riding their bikes and tricycles, playing tag and hiding-go-seek, swinging and sliding, playing in the dirt, finding pure excitement in a new puppy and growing with their new family member. Oh, how my list could go on and on. Put them in dance, gymnastics, or any other sport that they find intriguing. You should not be pushing them onto a stage, prancing around in small outfits, showing off their innocent bodies, and making moves that the girls are your local strip club are making. Parents of today’s society should be examined before they are allowed to be blessed with children. You should never live vicariously through your children. This is their lives, let them enjoy it. Let them have the memories that most of us have as they mature into adults. Let them interact with children their own ages. LET THEM BE CHILDREN!  There should be certain times and certain ages before a child is allowed to act the way you allow your children to act. They should grow up knowing the meaning of class and respect, as well as holding onto to their innocence. 

Rock On Man

I have to say that I am that I, for one, find it amazing that this homeless man, Ted Williams, is finding light at the end of the tunnel. After years of being down on his luck, it seems things are truly looking up for this man. To all the negative people that I have already heard speak of him, you all need to change your negative attitudes. We all have a past, some worse than others. Some we would love to change. But, in all reality, we know we can’t. What has been done is in the past, so let’s leave it there. I have to say that I am pleased to see this man that was homeless, once addicted to drugs and living the “bad” life, is picking up the pieces. He is finding his faith in God again and wanting to get on the right path. Yes, he may have been discovered because of some video that was posted on the internet, but that one simple video could be exactly what this man needed in life in order to make his life one that he can be proud of. As well as his family. After years of being estranged from his family, this man is finally back in touch. He knows that only he can help himself, that he has to be the one to live the right life. Kraft Mac & Cheese has already offered him a place to live as well as a stable job in voice for their products. Personally, I think it is pretty awesome.  I think it is a blessing that Ted Williams, who is 53, can make a mends with his mother, who is 90. For this man’s sake, his mom, and hid kids, I hope he is able to proceed in the voice radio/commercials or whatever. I hope he keeps clean and stays off the streets. After watching him on Good Morning America just now, it seems like he is going to do exactly that. So, to all the ones making such harsh judgment, take a step back and look at your life. I am sure you are far from perfect. I am sure you have made you fair share of things “mistakes” that others would not be proud or very happy about. Obviously, Mr. Ted Williams has talent, or there would not be so many companies’ throwing offers his way. I mean, they don’t hire just anyone. So, let’s give this man, who is two years sober, a break and let him enjoy his new life! I give him mad props and have to say Congrats Mr. Williams for pulling yourself together and for finding you break in life! I hope it all works out for the best for this man and he takes this opportunity and runs! Make the most out of it all!

It goes to show if this man can pick back up, remain addiction free, and live a better life…then why can’t we all? We should all focus on making 2011 our year. It is time we all pick up the pieces in our lives; quit blaming others if it isn’t going the way we hoped. Only you can make your life better. It isn’t up to everyone else to turn your life into the right direction. The only person who can make your life better is you. You have to take that first step in the right direction! I know I plan on making big changes this year. Ones that I can’t exactly reveal at this moment. But, ones that will all be for the better and I am very excited about! I plan on letting no one hold me back or keep me down. There will be many major changes in my family life as well! We will fall back under the civilian life, well as much as we can with my husband being medically retired. Anyhow, life is what you make of it. If you want to be a miserable person, then so be it. But, don’t expect to find me in your living hell. Thanks, but no thanks. I would rather remain in the group of positive people! I plan on enjoying my life this year and every year to follow. There is just something about being faced with death and lying on your death bed that makes you open your eyes and appreciate the finer things in life. So, if you find me not communicating with you as I use to, take a step back, evaluate your life, and see if there is a reason I have pulled myself away. This is our year people! Let’s make the most out of it and make it the best one yet!

Some of my Thoughts on This Upcoming Veteran's Day

" This Veteran's Day we honor those who have so bravely served this country. America is founded on the principle of freedom, justice, and liberty. Our nation's soldiers serve every day to protect our country and it's ideals. On Veteran's Day, take a sacred moment to remember those who sacrifice their lives every moment to achieve peace and democracy."



I remember as a kid Veteran's day held little meaning. Of course I understood the reason behind it, but it wasn't anything huge. Yes, I have had family in the military...Still, it didn't hold the proper meaning. However, now being older and of course wiser it is a day that brings tears to my eyes, because not only do I understand it, but I live with it! My husband is in the Army and has been for quite awhile now. We have lived through two deployments and he currently suffers through PTSD as well as other combat related issues and injuries. He has had to endure two surgeries due to nerve damage that also left him somewhat paralyzed in both hands. Now, he has feeling and movement. He has permanent pain and issues that no amount of surgeries or medication can "fix". So, my point is, I now get and understand this day honoring our Vet's. Sadly, in my opinion, that it takes this day for some people to say Thank You or to honor them. These men and women, as well as their immediate families live with life changes on a daily basis. I know we do. There are no amount of words that could describe the "changes" or the difference deployments make in our lives. So, unless you are living it or have lived it, please keep your negative and know it all comments and opinions to yourself. Because, quite honestly, you have no clue on this life!

With that being said, I came across an interesting story on the Washington Post today. It was someone that lived the military life visiting with his family at Walter Reed. It was a comment that he wrote about that caught my attention, one that is so true and one that took him many years to realize. It made me want to share it with anyone who reads what I write. Here is what he wrote:

"I never thought much about the meaning of Veterans Day -- strange for someone who spent 26 years in the Army. But last year I got it: Memorial Day is to honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, and Veterans Day is to honor those who have to live with the sacrifices they made."
and
"Veterans Day is for honoring all these brave young people who are the vanguards of freedom for this generation, as well as to honor those who suffered similarly in previous generations. Take a moment to remember the sacrifices they will have to live with -- God bless them."


How true this is. Memorial Day is for honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. In my honest opinion, the families left behind should also be honored on this day. They too sacrificed more than many of us will ever sacrifice. And, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you. You are never forgotten. I have friends who are living this living hell every day! One day a year to remember their loved ones it just not enough. What happened to our patriotism?  Just as Veteran's Day is the day so many people choose to look at a Vet and say Thank You. Do you realize that everyday their lives are different than before they were in a warzone? As well as the life of their spouse and children?  Every "thank you" means so much to these men and women as well as their families. I swell up with pride when we are walking somewhere and Kevin is in his uniform and someone stops us, shakes his hand, then just says "thank you for your sacrifices sir", then turns to me and the kids and continues to tell us thank you for ours as well. That means the world to me. We do give up so much for him to put his life on the line. Do I think we should be treated any differently, absolutely not. We do this and live this life because we want to. But, appreciation and understand from others goes such a long ways! I mean, when you go to bed at night and can see your spouse and know every night they will be next to you, be thankful. Since 2003 I have yet to spend one full year with my husband by my side every night and not one birthday or Mothers Day has he been home to spend it with me. Am I complaining? No. I am just stating the obvious. The only two anniversaries I have been lucky to have him home were spent in the hospital, both surgery related. He has also missed the many special events and occasions at home with our children. Like the first nine, almost ten, months of our sons life. Not to mention the countless days that the army has him. But, in the end, he is in the Army and I can say proudly my husband has served his time overseas in war zones. He's a Veteran that I am privileged to have by my side and honor everyday.


From the bottom of my heart, thank you to each and every one of you that have sacrificed! You are never forgotten! As, well as to the families that continue living this life, thank you! 


Some Quotes that I will leave you with...




"In War, there are no unwounded soldiers" ~ Jose Narosky


"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave."
~ Elmer Davis


"Courage is almost a contradiction in terms. It means a strong desire to live taking the form of readiness to die"  ~ G.K. Chersterton


"It is easy to take liberty for granted when you have never had it taken from you" ~ Dick Cheney


"Our Veteran's accepted the responsibility to defend America and uphold our values when duty called"  ~ Bill Shuster


"The willingness of America's Veteran's to sacrifice our country has earned them our lasting gratitude"  ~ Jeff Miller


I have many more, but I will leave you with these for the time. Thank  you to my husband who has missed out on so much, yet has done what so many others are too selfish to do. Your selfless acts have never gone unnoticed or taken for granted. We love you more than words could ever say. I thank God every day for watching over you and bringing you back home to us. Our future is always one day at a time, but I know, without a doubt, we have so much to look forward to! Thank you and I love you! You are mine and the kids true hero!

It Takes More Energy....

Every time I drive towards Fort Bliss I always come across homeless people! They are on the street corners, the medians, and anywhere else they feel the need to be. They walk up and down the streets, some in nice clothes, others in rags. They hold up signs begging for money. They even have the nerve to walk up to car windows then get pissed when you shake your head or tell them no. First off, I rarely have cash on me and even when I do, the last thing I am going to do is hand it off to some pan-handler! Last time I checked, my husband and I work to earn our money (work the legal way), we pay our bills, we do right. We don't stand on some street corner! Another thing, do they not realize that it takes way more energy to wear dark clothes, walk up and down the street in a bright, sunny city like El Paso, which is typically hot; than it does to go to the local Burger joint and actually work the right way?!?! It has always been one of my irritations to see these people down right beg, I mean I am from the Atlanta area where it is a whole lot worse. But, come on people. Even if you enjoy doing it because you actually make money, do something legit! I have seen the cops out here pull over just to tell them to get off the freaking streets!

Corrupt Cartoons

Most people would see nothing wrong with their three year old watching Spongebob, I mean it is a cartoon that is  played on Nickelodeon. Therefore, it should be a totally legit show, right? I thought so too until it hit me one day, Mr. Crabs lives in Bikini Bottom!!!! OMG, that is not even right! It is a good thing that my child, like many others, do not see the corrupt and adult humor behind this cartoon! However, through all the programs that are now on television, you can't help but to laugh. I mean, really, it is kind of creative when you think of Mr. Crabs living in Bikini Bottom.... 

There are so many other cartoons that have different scenarios and thoughts put behind them. Some being adult humor, others being on the racist side...

This is just another one of my thought after watching tv shows with the kids!

Anything You Can Do, I Can Do Better

Okay, so seriously?!?! I have a few people in my life that I have decided it is time to start cutting ties with. Why would any part of me want to continue a "friendship" with someone that always has a comment, such as "oh yea, well if you think that is bad, let me tell you about this time...." or, if I say I am not feeling well and people have to try to out do me with being sick. Seriously people? I really wish I wasn't battling health issues and that I wasn't having to live my life day to day without making plans because I never know how I will feel tomorrow. And, there is not a single ounce in me that is wanting you to feel bad or anything when I say it is an "off" day for me. But, by all means, do you really need to not feel well on the same day (every time) or do you really need to try to out do me with every freaking thing I say? This gets real old and so very annoying! Cut it out! Since it seems to get worse the more I am around someone, I have decided to no longer keep these people in my life. I would rather just live with my husband and kids and no one else around than to always have a one upper in my life! They really need to get a life! The funny thing is, these people can never figure out why they have NO friends!!! How can you not see this? You are annoying and a pain in the ass that no one cares to associate themselves with. I say all of this knowing that I am not the only person that feels this way about a handful of people since others have mentioned it to me as well over time! Lol, you can't help but to hum the tune of "anything you can do I can do better..." I have come to the conclusion that all of these "one uppers" that I have come in contact with have a very low self esteem, are very insecure and no self confidence! If they did, they would not always try to make themselves look and feel better, all the while people around them are thinking they are complete and total morons and idiots. So to all of you who know what I am talking about and the kind of people I am referring to, just get away from them. They are toxic friends, and in the end you will just want to choke them! Have you ever noticed that normally you want to ask questions when friends tell you something, but these people are the ones who you just wish would shut up because they never stop! Oh, and there is always something wrong with them! Come on, life is way too short to be this kind of person or to even associate ourselves with them! So, to those people I am referring to, I will be cutting ties with all of you! You contaminate my life as well as everyone elses! I have no need to be around people that make me want to slap the stupid off of them!

Breast Cancer Awareness Month... Squish a Boob, Save a Life

We all know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.... but how many people actually take this month seriously? Lets do something, starting this year, 2010, every woman needs to take this month more serious! Breast cancer is not something to play around with, nor is it something that should be ignored or pushed to the side. My great grandmother had it years ago, I have a cousin that had it, Kevin's grandmother lost her life due to her battle with it, my best friends mom lost the long battle from it in 2006.... Breast Cancer is not a joke! If it is caught early enough, lives can be saved! Also, most people are under the impression that only women can be diagnosed with breast cancer, heads up people, men can as well! It is just an  uncommon thing, but it does happen! If you notice any changes, see a doctor!

Things to think about:

Aside skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women.
It is more common among white women.
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, lung cancer coming in first.
2.4 million women living in the US have been diagnosed and treated for breast cancer.
Out of 192,370 cases that are diagnosed, 1,910 are expected to be men.
Over 40,000 deaths from breast cancer were anticipated in 2009... I am looking for 2010.
If your parent, sibling, or child has been diagnosed, then you stand an increase in developing breast cancer. PLEASE GET CHECKED!!!
Women who began menstruating before the age of 12, stand am increased risk in developing this form of cancer, as well as women who have more menstrual cycles.

It is very important to know the signs and symptoms....what to look for. We are all aware of the knots and different feeling to look for. One thing that is not very known due to its rare cases is Inflammatory Breast Cancer, or IBC. This is a rapid growing form, making the breast red, swollen, tender and could even look like you have a rash. It can be confused with a breast infection and is known as a locally advanced cancer. Therefore if you notice a change, get is checked out! Better to be safe than sorry.

Many forms of cancer have taken the lives of people I love and miss terribly. Cancer is no joke and not something I play with. Right now my own husband has skin cancer. Granted it can be treated, he still has it and I keep waiting for the next appointment just to hear the words of him being in remission. Hearing he had cancer brought me to tears. So, if you notice changes anywhere on your body, you feel knots or lumps, don't blow it off. Call your doctor, go to one of the free screenings that are always all over the US, do whatever you have to do in order to save your life or the life of someone you love!

A woman’s chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer is: 
From age 30-39 . . . . . . 1 out of 229 
From age 40-49 . . . . . . 1 out of 68 
From age 50-59 . . . . . . 1 out of 37 
From age 60-69 . . . . . . 1 out of 26 
From age 70-85. . . . . . .1 out of 8