Going Back to School is a PAIN!

This is from the Forsyth County Health Department...

Do you have a Child Entering 6th Grade?

North Carolina Immunization Law requires that all children entering 6th grade must have a tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis vaccine (Tdap). Your child will be suspended from school on Monday, September 26, 2011 if proof of this is not provided.

WHO:
6th Graders

WHAT:
FREE Tdap Vaccination Clinics for children with Medicaid, NC Health Choice or no insurance
NOTE: Children who are fully insured should receive the Tdap at their private provider’s office or may receive it at the health department for a fee of $62 (cash or check).

WHERE:
Forsyth County Department of Public Health
799 Highland Avenue
Winston Salem, NC 27101

WHEN:
Wednesday, September 14th (3:00 - 6:30 pm)
Wednesday, September 21st (3:00 - 6:00 pm)
BE SURE TO BRING YOUR CHILD’S IMMUNIZATION RECORD! For more information, please call (336) 703-3314.

Jesus Take the Wheel! (Updated 9/4)

My Wheel of Fortune Adventure

UPDATE!!!

Thursday, September 1st was the "Big Day". I arrived at the Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, California at around 7:30 AM. After being greeted by the sweetest security guard (who said she would pray for me after she found out I was a contestant on WOF). I proceeded to park the rental car and head to the Wheel of Fortune studios.

I was directed to the contestant waiting area where I and about 18 other contestants who were filming episodes that day spent most of the morning. We had 4 hours to fill before filming began and I thought that we would be bored. Boy, was I WRONG! We actually spent that time filling out paper work and being briefed by the contestant coordinators, producers and legal representatives. We also had our make-up done. They airbrushed us, which was pretty cool! While I was getting my makeup done, Vanna White popped in to the contestant area to say hello. She was very sweet and beautiful, even in her sweats and ball cap!  

We also spent some time practicing spinning the wheel and playing WOF. I was so surprised at how small the Wheel is (I'm estimating it's about 6'-7' in diameter)! I jokingly asked where the real Wheel was, because the one in the studio was obviously a replica. The whole studio is so much smaller than what it looks like on TV.  

The other thing we had to do that morning was draw to see which episode we would be on. There were six episodes being filmed that day. I was praying that I would be somewhere in the middle. I didn't want to go first, but I also didn't want to be last, because that would mean that my mom, my aunt and I would be there all day long. Thankfully, I drew the number 2! That was perfect! My episode will air on October 18th.

We also had to film our "Hometown Howdies", short videos for our local affiliates to air promoting our appearances on the Wheel. I wonder if WFMY will air mine? They also took publicity photos to use with the press releases they would send to our local newspapers.

Before long our friends and family members who would be in the studio audience began arriving. We were warned not to look at, talk to or attempt to make any contact at all with our friends in the audience to avoid any potential cheating. It was really tough not to say hello! And, my mom had a really hard time being quiet during the filming of my episode!

Finally, around noon, filming began. And...this is where my blog has to end. Contestants are asked not to publicly reveal the outcome of or details about our episodes until they have aired. All I can say is that you need to tune into WFMY (or whichever station plays Wheel of Fortune in your area) on Tuesday, October 18, to see how I do. I promise, it will be an exciting 30 minutes of television!

----Original Post----

I’ve been a “Wheel Watcher” for most of my life.  I remember tuning in each afternoon when I was a kid, back when people on the show got to choose “fabulous gifts and prizes” from the showcase after each round. The audience “ooohhhed and aaahhhhed” at all of the treasure up for grabs. I used to imagine which items I would buy with the money.  As I got a little older, I realized that not only did I really like to watch the show, I was also pretty good at solving the puzzles.  Most of the time, I was able to solve them before the people on the show could.  

Needless to say, I’ve always dreamed of being a contestant on the “Wheel”.  Over the years, I’ve filled out several online applications to be on the show.  I also signed up to be notified if there would be any “Wheelmobile” events in my area, hoping that I might be able to audition at one of those.  Years went by and I never heard anything.  

However, this spring I received an email saying that the Wheelmobile would be rolling into Roanoke and Danville, Virginia one weekend in May.  I was a bit conflicted about whether or not I would go.  The Roanoke event was on a Saturday and was the only one I could do.  Roanoke is a two hour drive from my home.  When I read about the Wheelmobile events online, I learned that only a handful of the thousands that come out actually have a chance to audition.  I was worried that I would waste a whole Saturday and not even have a chance to try out.  But, I reasoned that if I didn’t go, I was missing out on my only chance to fulfill my dream of being on the show and I would always regret it.   So, on Saturday, May 21st I made the trip to Roanoke.

There were 3 rounds of auditions or “shows” being held that day.  When I got to the civic center, the first round was already underway.  So, I started the line for the second show.  I’m estimating that 750-1000 people lined up for the second audition.  We all filled out a short application and placed it in a bin on our way into the auditorium.  All of those slips of paper were then placed in a hopper and would be selected at random to determine who got to go on stage and audition.

The event itself was really quite fun.  They had a big stage and a replica of the Wheel of Fortune puzzle board.  There was a stand in Pat and Vanna.  They spun the huge hopper of names and drew out 5 names at a time, those would be the lucky few people who got to play the game and audition for the show.   Thankfully, my name was drawn in the third round of play!  I was shocked and so excited!  

My First Audition in Roanoke

After chatting with Marty, the host of the show, I and four other contestants played a Wheel of Fortune  lightening round.  The theme was “Show Biz”.  After just a couple of letters had been revealed, it was my turn to play and I already knew the answer!  I asked if there was a “G”.  There were two.  Then I solved the puzzle...”OPENING NIGHT”!!!

I returned to my seat and watched the final three rounds of play.  Then, the audition was over.  We were told that if we were one of the contestants who got on stage we would be considered for a second audition in Roanoke that would happen in about a month.   If we were chosen we would receive an email within a couple of weeks.  As I drove home that day, I was so excited about the fact that I actually got a chance to audition and then was able to be the one who solved the puzzle.  I realized that if the other two rounds were like the one I attended, then close to 3,000 people came out that day, and only 90 were chosen to go on stage and audition.  I thanked God for allowing me to be one of them.

The next two weeks were absolute torture!  With each day that passed without getting that audition notice my hopes of being on the show dwindled. Then, about 3 weeks after the Roanoke event, the email FINALLY came!  I had been selected for the second audition!  

On Thursday, June 23rd, I made my second trip to Roanoke.  This time, the auditions were held in a hotel conference room and there were only about 50 people there to audition.  During the first phase of the audition we played multiple WOF lightning rounds.  The producers just randomly called out names from the list, we jumped up and called out a letter.  If it was in the puzzle we could move on, if not, it was someone else’s turn.  Here’s the cool thing.  Mine was the VERY FIRST NAME called that day!   I called out a few letters, they were all there and then I solved the puzzle “A LITTER OF SIAMESE KITTENS”!!   The guy who was running the game said, “OK everyone, Tami just set the standard for everyone else!”  No one, myself included, could believe that I solved it so quickly.

After about an hour of lightening round play, we all had to take a written test.  There were about 15 partially solved puzzles and we had to solve as many of them as possible in just five minutes!  I think I solved 11 or 12 of them.  When time was up, the show producers graded all of the tests.  After a short break, the producers came back and said that based on the test scores and our performance in the lightening rounds, some of the group would stay and the rest would leave.  They then read the names of the people who could stay.  That was excruciating!  Thankfully, my name was on the list.  But, it was really sad watching all those people leave!  

The 20 or so people that remained were then divided into groups of five and we played WOF as if we were actually on the show.  We even had to pretend to spin the wheel!  I think I solved one or two of the three rounds we played in our “episode”.   After everyone had a chance to play, we were told that if we were going to be chosen as a contestant on the show we would receive a letter within two weeks.

Another two weeks of torture went by, the anticipation was too much!  During that time, I took a mission trip to Guatemala.  My mom and daughter promised to check the mail every day and said they would send me an email if the letter came.  So, every evening when I had the chance I would check my messages to see if the letter had come.  The end of my trip to Guatemala also marked the end of the two-week period when the letter was supposed to come.  So, I flew back home thinking I was not chosen as a contestant.  

My family picked me up at the airport that night and we drove home talking about the trip and what happened while I was gone.  While we were in the driveway and I was getting my suitcases from the car, my son Andrew ran into the house and came back out with something in his hand.  He said, “Oh, by the way Mom, this came in the mail for you today.”  As soon as I saw the Wheel of Fortune logo on the envelope I knew what it was.  I dropped my suitcases and grabbed the letter.  I started jumping up and down and squealing as I read these words, “Congratulations!  You have been selected as a contestant for Wheel of Fortune.”

The letter also said that I would be contacted at some point within the next 18 months with a date to film and I would have two weeks, or less, advance notice!  So, once again, the waiting began.  If the Lord is trying to teach me patience, this has been an excellent way to do it!  

Fortunately, I did not have to wait too long.  On Wednesday, August 17, six weeks after I got the letter and 3 months after the Wheelmobile event, my phone rang and “Sony Pictures Studios” was the name on my caller ID.  I was on the phone with my friend Robyn at the time and I cut her off mid-sentence (sorry, Robyn!).  I said, “Robyn, I HAVE to take this call...gotta go!”.  On the other line was Jackie, a Wheel of Fortune contestant coordinator.  She said they wanted to schedule my filming date and asked if I could come out to L.A. on September 1st.  That was just two weeks away!  My head was spinning and my hands were shaking.  I quickly looked at my calendar and didn’t see any conflicts so I said, “Sure! Sign me up!”  Jackie then gave me all kinds of info, and reassured me that she would be sending me an email and a Fed-ex packet with everything I needed to know.  That’s good, because I don’t remember much of what she said!

As soon as the call was over, my family and I talked about my upcoming trip.  I realized after I accepted the date that by going on September 1st, I would be missing one of my son’s football games and our family’s annual camping trip (thankfully, my husband will still take the kids on the trip).  But, the kids seemed to understand that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and they also realize that, if things go well, this could greatly benefit our family financially.   Then, I booked my flight (thankfully, I had enough frequent flier miles to cover it) and my hotel room.  My mom is coming with me, so my next step was to get her booked on the same flight.  

This is going to be an expensive adventure!  Even with the frequent flier miles, by the time I pay for the hotel room, food and other expenses, I’m looking at spending close to $1,000 to make this trip.  Fortunately, everyone who appears on the Wheel wins at least $1,000, so even if I don’t win anything else I will hopefully at least break even.,

I won’t allow my mind to visit the possibility that I could win a lot of money very often.  I just don’t want to get my hopes up and then be disappointed if I don’t.  However, I have thought a little about what I would do if I won $30,000, which seems to be about the average amount that the highest winner on the show gets each night.  First of all, the government would take about 40% of that right off the top.  So, my take home would be more like $18,000.  That would be enough to pay off most of our outstanding debt and contribute to a couple of causes that are near and dear to me.  That would be just amazing and an answer to some things I have been praying over for many years.

I also realize that there are some amazing WOF players, people who are way better than me, who get on the show, but because of bad “luck” on the wheel, go home with almost nothing. So, there is still quite a bit of it that is completely out of my control.    It’s a lot like life, really.  All I can do is be present, do my best and leave the rest up to God!  Jesus, take the Wheel!

Eating for Education

Please support the Eating for Education Wednesday, August 10th sponsored by the Kernersville Chamber of Commerce. Participating restaurants will donate up to 10% of their sales to support grants for teachers in Kernersville’s schools.


Thank you for your assistance in funding education in Kernersville.

Participating restaurants:

Bistro B & Wine Bar

Captain Tom's Seafood Restaurant

CiCi's Pizza

Domino's Pizza

East Coast Wings & Grill

Fitz on Main

J. Peppers

Mi Pueblo

Papa John's Pizza

Sagebrush Steakhouse

Smitty's Grille

Sonic Drive-in

Subway (all 4 Kernersville locations)

Terry's Deli & Grill

Kerner House

Outwest Steakhouse

Plaza Restaurant

Wendy's (both Kernersville locations)

Dave Ramsey's Unique Perspective on the Federal Budget

Federal Budget vs. Household Budget: How Do They Compare?

Dave Ramsey thought it'd be fun to turn the astronomical national debt figures into something we can understand a little better — like a household budget...

http://www.daveramsey.com/article/federal-budget-vs-household-budget-how-do-they-compare/lifeandmoney_budgeting

FREE School Supplies for Teachers!

On average, teachers spend anywhere from $400-$1,000 per year out-of-pocket for school supplies for their classrooms.  With salaries frozen and everything getting more expensive, this is quite a burden.  Fortunately, there is some help on the way for teachers in Forsyth and Guilford County.

Teachers in Guilford county can get free school supplies at "The Teacher Supply Warehouse" on Yanceyville Street in Greensboro.  Donations from the community are needed to keep the warehouse up and running.  Here is a link to more info:  http://www.guilfordeducationalliance.org/support/teacher-warehouse.phps 

Soon, teachers in Forsyth County will have a similar program as well!  Here is what info we have about it...

The Educator Warehouse is located at Diggs-Latham Elementary School off Peters Creek. There will be a website to make an appointment, up to 40 teachers a day. Each teacher gets 25 points per quarter. You can spend all 25 points at once, or split up your points into multiple visits during the quarter. The proposed hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 2:30-6:30. Volunteers will be working during these hours to help the teachers. This is a partnership with Forsyth Education Partnership and WS/FCS Council of PTAs (County PTA). While donations have been given, set up and are ready... there are still a lot of details to work out to make this run smoothly. It will open as soon as possible. This has been two years in the making and was inspired from Greensboro's model. Our county PTA President Aleta Bitting has been working on this for two years. We will all be so happy when this resource for our teachers opens!

Resume Building with Job Coach, Randy Wooden

If you have a lot of short term jobs in your work history, it can be tough to build a resume.  Here's some advice from job coach, Randy Wooden:

-Group similar jobs/experiences under one heading
-Highlight quantitative accomplishments-individual, team and company-wide
-Make sure to include keywords from the job posting in your resume


For more information, visit Randy's website:
http://www.woodengroup.com/

Prescription Drugs Getting Cheaper

Millions of Americans will soon get some relief from high prescription prices as generic versions of many top-selling drugs become available within the next 14 months.  Included in the list are Lipitor, Plavix, Diovan and Lexipro.  Is your medication getting ready to go generic?  You can check this list to find out:

http://www.medcohealth.com/art/corporate/anticipatedfirsttime_generics.pdf

Keep Your Cool!

How are you handeling this heat wave?  Here are a few tips to keep your house cool, even if you don't have AC.  http://green.yahoo.com/blog/care2/422/10-ways-to-keep-cool-at-home-without-a-c.html

What are your tips for keeping cool when it's hot?

Free Camping!

If anyone in your family is permanently disabled, your whole family can camp for free at over 2,000 parks across the country! Follow this link for more info. Where is your favorite camping spot?  http://store.usgs.gov/pass/access.html

Lemonade!

This summer, say NO to the powdered stuff!  Making lemonade from scratch is easier than you think!  Here is one recipe from FNCimag:

Ingredients:
Makes 8 servings

4 lemons
1 cup sugar
2 cups water
*1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, washed

Additional mint sprigs and lemon slices, for garnish

Directions:
- Prepare a “simple syrup” by pouring the water into a small saucepan. Stir in the sugar and place over medium heat, stirring until dissolved.
- Wash the lemons. Before juicing, press the heel of your hand into the lemons and roll them on the countertop to help release juice. Halve and squeeze the juice from the lemons. You should have about one cup of lemon juice.
- Combine the lemon juice with the simple syrup and transfer to a pitcher.
- Add two quarts of water, stir in the mint leaves, and chill.
- Served chilled lemonade over ice cubes and garnish with additional mint sprigs and lemon slices, if desired.
Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/imag/Food/How+to+Make+Your+Own+Lemonade+from+Scratch#ixzz1QfIOna7H
 
* Verne suggests freezing a fresh mint leaf in each of your ice cubes for an extra special presentation.
 
Bonnie also shared her recipe for homemade lemonade, which involves no squeezing or boiling water. 
 
Slice 4 lemons and place them in a pitcher (2 qt)
Stir in 1 1/2 cups of sugar with the lemons and let them sit for 5-10 minutes.
Add a small amount of warm water to dissolve the sugar
Fill the rest of the pitcher with cold water and ice cubes
Remove lemon slices, enjoy!

Finally, here's a fun song from Chris Rice with the title, "Lemonade"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKiB9zs5uAs

Free and Cheap Things to Do with the Kids this Summer

-AMF Lanes has a free summer bowling program for kids in Winston-Salem and Greensboro. http://freebowling.amf.com/

-Here’s another free bowling program offered at Gate City Lanes in Greensboro and High Point Bowling Center: http://www.kidsbowlfree.com/

-Angie recommends Hiddenite Gem Mining near Hickory for inexpensive family fun. http://www.hiddenitegems.com/

-Lots of people love Hanging Rock for swimming (small fee), hiking and waterfalls. http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/haro/main.php

-Pilot Mountain is another great place to hike and take in some amazing views. http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/pimo/main.php

-Jennifer says, “The Billy Graham Library in Charlotte is a wonderful tour EVERYONE should take...and admission is FREE. There is a Dairy Bar inside where you could choose to buy lunch....It is a wonderful, humbling experience.” http://www.billygrahamlibrary.org/

-You could spend DAYS seeing interesting places in Raleigh and never spending a dime for admission. Check out this cool website that our friend Bev shared with us: http://www.visitraleigh.com/visitors/free.php

-Tami and her family recently discovered that tubing down a cool river is a great way to spend a summer day, and it's relatively inexpensive (avg. $10 per person). They used Tangent Outfitters in Radford, Virginia; however, there are lots of companies within a few hours of the Triad that provide tubes, lifejackets and a shuttle bus from their parking area to the spot on the river where you start your float.

http://www.danburygeneralstore.net/TubingTheDan.aspx
http://www.tangentoutfitters.com/node/32
http://www.newriverjunction.com/Tubing.html
http://www.greatsmokies.com/tubing.asp
http://www.ncrafting.com/Tubing.html

-A handful of movie theatres have free or cheap kids movies on weekday mornings during the summer. Every theatre’s program is slightly different, so check the website or call for more info. Here’s a great list compiled by Piedmont Parent:
http://www.piedmontparent.com/articlemain.php?Summer-Movies-for-Kids-1291

-You should definitely check with your local library, most branches have special programs for kids of all ages:

Forsyth County: http://www.forsyth.cc/library/CalendarSelector.aspx

Guilford County: http://www.greensboro-nc.gov/departments/Library/calendar/

Davidson County: http://www.co.davidson.nc.us/community/PublicLibraryCatalog.aspx

Randolph County: http://www.randolphlibrary.org/children.htm

Stokes/Surry/Yadkin Counties: http://www.nwrl.org/kidszone.asp

-Finally, lots of other websites have compiled lists like this one, but with many, many more ideas for inexpensive family fun. Here are some links:

http://triadmomsonmain.com/_blog/My_Blog/post/What_to_do_with_Your_Toddler_this_Summer!/
http://www.gotriadscene.com/categories/index/7/0
http://attractions.uptake.com/north_carolina/winston-salem/cheap_vacations/429704809.html
http://attractions.uptake.com/north_carolina/greensboro/cheap_vacations/589384869.html
http://www.piedmontparent.com/thingstodo/index.php
http://www.relylocal.com/kernersville-surrounding-areas-north-carolina/things-to-do

And, don't forget to buy a copy of "Kids Love NC" or "Kids Love the Carolinas".  This book is an essential resource for parents and kids on the go! http://www.kidslovetravel.com/

99-Year-Old Gets His College Degree

At nearly 100 years old, an Oregon man recently got his teaching degree (story below).  What have you ALWAYS wanted to do?  Go for it...it's never too late.

http://www.ktvz.com/news/28239246/detail.html?source=bend

Top Ten Ways to Get Fired

Want to keep your job?  This list from Monster.com will tell you which behaviors to avoid in order to stay employed.  http://career-advice.monster.com/in-the-office/workplace-issues/10-ways-to-get-fired/article.aspx

Make a packing list and check it twice!

Heading on a trip this summer?  This year, don't end up in a panic trying to pack and get everything done at the last minute.  Instead, head to http://www.dontforgetyourtoothbrush.com/ and let them help you with the planning! It's a free website and promises to keep your info private and secure.

Fabulous Summer Feet

I've never had a professional pedicure and you can definitely tell by looking at my feet.  Whether you have your little piggies taken care of by a pro, or you do it yourself, here are some do's and don't's for your next pedicure:  http://shine.yahoo.com/event/summerbeauty/dos-and-donts-for-fabulous-summer-feet-2490891

Five Great Apps for Dad!

Father's day is just around the corner.  Don't have a lot of money to spend on Dad this year?  There's an app for that!  http://www.appolicious.com/shine/articles/8280-five-fantastic-iphone-apps-for-a-frugal-fathers-day

"The Dirty Dozen"...A List of Produce You Should Buy Organic

Here's a great list of the items you should consider buying organic, and the ones you don't need to worry about. Are there any food items that you always buy the organic versions of?

http://www.ewg.org/foodnews/summary/

Feelin' HOT! HOT! HOT!

When the heat outside cranks up, so do the cases of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.  These are dengerous and potentially deadly conditions.  Here's a great article about the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to prevent them.  http://www.greenwichtime.com/local/article/Tips-for-keeping-cool-1416156.php

The World's Most Embarassing Dad

You think your parents are embarassing?  You ain't seen nothing yet!  Check out what this dad did every day this year to have some fun embarassing his high school aged son.  Truth is, I think he is the coolest dad ever!

http://waveatthebus.blogspot.com/

Caterpillar Jobs in the Triad!

Get your resume ready. Caterpillar is holding its first Job Fair this coming Tuesday from 9 to 5pm at Forsyth Tech's ‘West Campus’ on Bolton Street. Positions available: assembly line workers, painters, quality technicians, forklift drivers and production supervisors. http://www.jointeamcaterpillar.com/


Caterpillar is holding an information seminar for potential suppliers this Friday from 8am to 10:30am on Forsyth Tech's West Campus. Businesses must register by noon today to attend. Click here to register: www.winstonsalem.com/suppliersummit.aspx

Joplin, MO Tornado Relief

Mock Beroth Tire and Automotive will be accepting donations for the victims of the disaster in Joplin, Missouri. All 12 of their locations will be accepting these, visit http://www.mockberothtire.com/ for a list of locations.

Items to be collected:

paper towels

toilet paper
bath towels
shampoo

deodorant

toothpaste

tooth brushes

blankets

pillows

clothing

bottled water

Cash or checks will be accepted, checks should be made to Jefferson Church of Christ with memo note "Joplin"  Items should be dropped off at Mock Beroth Tire & Automotive between now and Friday June 3 during normal business hours.

There is a tractor trailer at Jefferson Church of Christ, 8200 Jefferson Church Road in Rural Hall that is also accepting the donations, from 8:30 - 4:30 Monday - Thursday; 8am -6pm Friday and Saturday, and 1:00 pm to 7pm Sunday.

The last day to donate is Sunday June 5 at the church.

A "Real Senior" Prom

Check out this sweet and heartwarming story about a group of High School students that threw a "Senior Prom" for elderly men and women in their community.
http://www.redletterchristians.org/a-real-senior-prom/

5 Tips for Great Grilling

John Stage is the founder and pitmaster of Dinosaur BBQ...a wildly popular barbecue joint in New York.    Here's a link to his list of the Five Most Common Grilling Mistakes and How to Fix 'Em as presented by CNN.com.

http://eatocracy.cnn.com/2011/05/26/55-john-stage/

Kids Love the Carolinas

Second only to the Bible, Michelle Zavatsky's Kids Love North Carolina is the most read and referred to book in my home.  If you have kids and travel or take day trips, you really should have a copy of this book!

Here is a link to her website:  http://www.kidslovetravel.com/

Getting the Best Block for Your Buck

I love it when products are both low in price and high in quality.  Fortunatley, according to Consumer Reports, there are several sunscreens on the market that fit that description.  CR tested the latest sunscreen products and for the second year in a row, Up & Up’s Sport Continuous SPF 30 -- a Target store brand --was named best buy, being one of four with top marks for effectiveness and costing just $0.88 per ounce.


For the rest of the ratings and the complete article, click here: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/43140252/ns/health-skin_and_beauty/

Got Money to Burn? Here are a Few Ways to Waste Your Cash

According to CNN Money, there are a whole host of ways to waste your money, some you may not have thought of.  So, if you have a surplus of money (and you've already made your faith promise to WBFJ) here are some ways to get rid of all those pesky extra dollars:

http://finance.yahoo.com/banking-budgeting/article/112766/biggest-money-wasters-cnnmoney?mod=bb-budgeting

Ending the Messy Room Battle

Love, love, love this six-step plan by Psychologist and life coach Dr. Michael Mantell for helping your kids keep a neat bedroom, with NO arguing!

1. Clean your child's room the way you want it cleaned.

2. Snap photos of every area of the room, beds, desk, closets, bookcases, corners, etc.

3. Post the pictures at your child's eye level in his/her room.

4. Tell your child that you will check the room daily at a specific time.

5. Give your child a fair 15 minute warning that you are about to check at that specific time and then do.

6. Anything left out, or unlike the pictures, gets taken away for three days, NO MATTER WHAT IT IS

Read more about Dr. Mantell's advice here:
http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/parenting/messy-room-worth-fighting-over-2484834/print

What a Bah-gain!

Winston-Salem Rescue Mission annual Customer Appreciation Day

  Who: Winston-Salem Rescue Mission recognizes and thanks thrift store customers
What: Free homemade ice cream, popcorn, in-store discounts and contest drawings
When: Thursday, May 19, 2011
9:00 am - 4:30 pm
Where: Winston-Salem Rescue Mission Thrifts Store – corner of 7th & Oak Street


The Winston-Salem Rescue Mission thrift store operation generates approximately 25% of the ministry’s annual operating revenue. The Customer Appreciation Day event is one way the Rescue Mission can show its appreciation for the community’s support. In addition to free homemade ice cream (made on site) and free popcorn, items will be greatly reduced from their already low price: 30% off entire inventory (furniture, bedding, large appliances, clothing, household items, toys, collectibles, etc).

There will also be drawings for three ($100) gift certificates throughout the day. Come join the hundreds that turn out for this event each year.

Thank you for your coverage and support of this and other Winston-Salem Rescue Mission projects and events. For additional information, please contact Mike Foster at the WSRM.

What's Up with Your Hair?

Thanks to Lauren Faulkner, owner/stylist at Scissor Hands Hair Studio in Kernersville for joining the show this morning to talk about summer hair trends.  For more information or to make an appointment, call Lauren at 336-993-0777 or visit her website:  http://www.scissorhandshairstudio.com/


Also, don't forget about the Kids Night Out coming up at Scissorhands...here are the details:

Saturday, May 28 · 6:00pm - 8:00pm


Location:
Scissorhands hair studio
335 West Mountain Street ( house beside the post office)
Kernersville,NC,27284
More Info LIMITED SPOTS! MUST RSVP VIA FACEBOOK OR TELEPHONE 336 993-0777
https://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/event.php?eid=208467089186025

Kids(BOYS & GIRLS) from the ages of 5-12 are invited to Scissorhands!-( IF YOU HAVE A YOUNGER CHILD AND WANT TO STAY WITH THEM THE ENTIRE TIME THAT IS FINE JUST LET US KNOW!)

- to watch the disney movie TANGLED
-have snacks
- make crafts ( crafts vary for age appropriateness,kids will be broken off into groups depending on age for crafts).
-Drop off is 6pm, the movie will start at 6:15.
-$10 a child for two hours!
-Take this time to relax,have dinner,run errand, don't worry kids will be watched by several professional and trust worthy adults! Some are trained in CPR certification.

Big Brother in the School Lunchroom?

Because of an apparent communication breakdown in my family, I found out last night that my son has been eating pretty much nothing for lunch for the past several weeks because he did not realize that I had put more money in his lunch account.  Well, that's not entirely true, actually his friend Jonathan has been giving him the wrapper from his muffin each day to chew on.  Before you turn me in to social services, keep in mind that my "highly gifted" son is in the 8th grade and I do expect him to take some responsibility for himself, like either making sure that he has money for lunch or has something to pack bring with him

On the other side of the lunchtime spectrum, parents of kids in five San Antonio, TX elementary schools can now know EXACTLY what their kids are eating thanks to a $2 million federal grant that has paid for cameras in these school's cafeterias.  The high-tech cameras take a picture of what each child put on the tray when they go through the lunch line and then what is left over after lunch.  Then, the pictures are analyzed and the nutritional content of what the child actually ate is calculated.

Seriously?  Our nation is facing a $14 trillion debt and were spending money on this? 

http://www.woai.com/news/local/story/2M-school-cafeteria-camera-study-creates/VhIMCctC7E-xMywxDG-jPw.cspx

25 Manners Every Kid Should Know

Also from Yahoo! Shine, is this list of 25 Manners Every Kid Should Know by Age 9.  For example:

Manner #7 Do not comment on other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome.

Ughhh...do I have some embarassing stories about that manner being forgotton!  And, don't even get me started on manner #10

Manner #10

Knock on closed doors -- and wait to see if there's a response -- before entering.



And, manner #19 may help keep chivalry alive...

Manner #19

As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.

Check out the full list of 25 Manners here: http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/parenting/25-manners-every-kid-should-know-by-age-9-2480238

Most Popular Baby Names

Thanks to Shine from Yahoo! for these interesting tidbits today.  First of all, the Social Security Administration has released their list of the Most Popular Names of 2010.  Here are the top 10 boys and girls names.  For the full article click here.

Top 10 Names for Boys

1. Jacob
2. Ethan
3. Michael
4. Jayden
5. William
6. Alexander
7. Noah
8. Daniel
9. Aiden
10. Anthony
Top 10 Names for Girls

1. Isabella
2. Sophia
3. Emma
4. Olivia
5. Ava
6. Emily
7. Abigail
8. Madison
9. Chloe
10. Mia

A Month of Sundays

Friends, I am so happy that this day has finally come!  You see, for several years I have been trying to compile a collection of some of my "Moment for Mom" devotions into a book.  Since I have been working on this whenever I could find a few spare hours, and since spare time is something that is almost non-existent for me, this has taken much longer than I expected!  

The book, "A Month of Sundays: 30 Days of Reflection and Inspiration" is finally a reality.  Praise God!  It is a collection of some of my favorite "Moment for Mom" devotions, thirty of them to be exact.   In addition to the devotional that you'd normally read here on the blog or hear on WBFJ, the book also includes a special prayer and some thought provoking questions to go along with each devotion.  I also have included several journal pages where you can add your own thoughts, prayers and reflections.  I hope that you will find each day's devotion to be like a mini-sermon, giving you something to think about and deepen your relationship with God.

The interesting thing is that, even though I did not select the devotions for this collection with any theme in mind, one has definitely emerged.  Many of the devotions in this book, although each unique in its own right, seem to center around staying faithful, focused and encouraged, even during life's difficulties.  I don't believe it to be a coincidence that this is the theme that has emerged.  Even though these devotionals were written over the past five years or so, the past year has been a very difficult one for me.  So, I believe that God is pointing out to me that he was preparing me for the trials I would face in my life far in advance, by

giving me these words long before I would fully understand their meaning.

I am selling the books for $18.00 each (+ $2.00 shipping/handling for online orders). Currently, the profit is going towards offsetting the high cost of printing.  As soon as that is covered, my intention is to use the proceeds of the book towards mission trip expenses and other charitable causes.  

You can order a copy right here.  Simply click the button below and you'll be directed to Paypal where you can securely complete your transaction using any major credit/debit card or your Paypal account.  You do not need to have a Paypal account...simply choose to complete your transaction as a guest when you get the Paypal website.  Your order will ship via USPS within 48 hours of reciept of payment.  Thank You!

"A Month of Sundays" Cover

A Peek Inside

Table of Contents

Alabama Tornado Relief

Hope Outreach Church, located at 2800 Westchester Drive in High Point is filling a transfer truck with relief items to take to one of the hardest hit areas of Alabama. They are accepting your donations until Thursday, May 12. The following items are being collected and will be distributed to residents of Rainsville, Alabama by a local church.

NEW/GENTLY USED CLOTHING
MANUAL CAN OPENERS
WATER
CANNED OR PRE-PACKAGED FOOD
TOILETRIES
BABY FOOD
DIAPERS
FORMULA
TOWELS
WASH CLOTHS
BLANKETS
BATTERIES
FLASHLIGHTS
GENERATORS

For more information or to arrange a time to drop off your donations, call Gloria Swaim at 336-906-1896.

In Tha Muthahood

Cinch! Diet by Cynthia Sass

For more info about this simple and healthy diet plan, visit: http://www.cynthiasass.com/the-cinch-book.html
You can also follow Cynthia on Facebook and Twitter

Was the Last Supper on Wednesday?

Christians have traditionally observed Maundy Thursday as the day of the Last Supper.  However, a new book contends that the Last Supper actually happened on Wednesday.  The theory actually makes a lot of sense...here's a link to the story:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/colin-humphreys/why-do-the-gospels-disagr_b_850198.html

Easter Recipes!

Prepping a huge spread for Easter Sunday?  Here's my go-to website for recipes of any kind, and this link goes directly to their Easter section:  http://allrecipes.com/features/holidays/easter/default.aspx  The best thing about allrecipes.com is that all of the recipes are rated by users, so you can skip right to the highest rated dishes if desired. 

There are some cool object lessons using food that you may want to use to help teach your children the true Christain meaning of Easter.  The first is called "Resurrection Rolls".  The second is   Here is the recipe, as presented at the website http://www.cookingcache.com/resurrectionrolls.shtml?rdid=rc1

Resurrection Rolls Recipe
(each item represents how Jesus' body was prepared for burial)
Large Marshmallows
Melted Butter
Sugar/Cinnamon mixture
Can of Crescent Rolls

1. Open can of crescent rolls and separate into triangles. The rolls represent the linen wrapping used in covering the dead.
2. Dip and roll one marshmallow (representing Jesus' body) into melted butter The butter represents the oils used in anointing the dead body.
3. Roll the marshmallow in the sugar/cinnamon mixture. The mixture represents the spices used in burials.
4. Place the marshmallow in the center of the crescent triangle. Fold and pinch the edges tight. Put each crescent-wrapped marshmallow on a slightly greased cookie sheet.
5. Bake the rolls as directed on he package. The oven represents the tomb.

When cooked, the marshmallow melts leaving only the puffed crescent roll.
This demonstrates how Jesus rose from the dead. All that remained in the tomb were the linen wrappings.
These are surprisingly tasty. ENJOY!!! Jesus loves you!


The second cool object-lesson recipe is for "Resurrection Cookies".  I found this version of the recipe at http://realfoodliving.com/recipes/resurrection-cookies

Resurrection Cookies

•1 cup whole pecans (we use almonds)
•1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
•3 egg whites
•pinch salt
•1 cup organic sugar
•Plastic baggie
•Wooden spoon, rolling pin
•Tape
•Bible

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. (Do this before doing anything else.)

•Place nuts in baggie and beat them with a wooden spoon to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested and He was beaten by the Roman soldiers. Read John 19:1-3

•Open the vinegar and let everyone smell it. Put 1 teaspoon into the mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross, all He was given to drink was vinegar. Read John 19:28-30

•Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life. Read John 10:10-11

•Sprinkle a little salt into each person’s hand. Let them taste it, then brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus’ followers, and the bitterness of our own sin. Read Luke 23:27

•So far the ingredients are not very appetizing. Sprinkle a little sugar into each person’s hand. Let them taste it, then brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him. Read Psalm 34:8 and John 3:16

•Beat with mixer on high speed for 15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white represents our purity in God’s eyes because our sins are cleansed by Jesus. Read Isaiah 1:18

•Fold in nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto cookie sheets lined with parchment paper. Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus’ body was laid. Read Matthew 27:57-60

•Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and TURN THE OVEN OFF. Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door shut. Explain that Jesus’ tomb was sealed. Read Matthew 27:65-66

•You’re done! Explain that you cannot eat the cookies tonight, but that you have to leave the cookies in the oven overnight. That might not make anyone too happy. Explain that Jesus’ followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed. Read John 16:20 and 22

•The next morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow! On the third day, Jesus followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty. Read Matthew 28:1-9

•Enjoy the cookies and relate to life’s daily blessings through G-d’s love and grace – noted especially on this holiest of days!

And now, after all of this goodness and light, it's time to take you over to the dark side with this recipe for Deep Fried Cadbury Eggs.  This one's from http://thestir.cafemom.com/food_party/118858/deep_fried_cadbury_eggs_should

•Cadbury Creme Eggs

•1 cup flour

•1 cup milk

•1 egg

•1 teaspoon baking powder

•1 1/2 teaspoons sugar

•1 teaspoon salt

•Oil for deep frying

Chill eggs in fridge. Whisk together next 6 ingredients to create a creamy batter. Heat oil to around 350-375 degrees. Coat eggs in batter. Carefully lower eggs into batter and fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.

Perfect Hard Boiled Eggs

The American Egg Board recommends the following preparation for Hard Cooked Eggs:

• Bring eggs and water to a full, rolling boil.
• Turn off the heat, cover the pan, and let the eggs sit in the hot water for 14 to 17 minutes.
• While cooking easily raises the internal temperature to 160°F (killing any Salmonella bacteria), hard-cooked eggs can spoil more quickly than raw eggs.
• Refrigerate hard-cooked eggs in their shells promptly and use them within 1 week.

And. here's a great article to make sure that your hard-boiled eggs come out perfectly every time:
http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20110418/ARTICLES/110419654?p=1&tc=pg

Eastern NC Relief Efforts

April 16 was a terrifying day for many NC residents as a line of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes ripped through our state.  Areas east of I-85 suffered the most devastation.  As of today, at least 21 people are confirmed dead and hundreds of homes have been destroyed. 

It is in these times and places that the body of Christ has a responsibility to provide a helping hand to those in need.  We are compiling a list of ways that you can reach out to our hurting neighbors.  Check back often, as we will update this list regularly.

The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is accepting monetary donations
www.salvationarmycarolinas.org/
Call 1-800-SAL-ARMY

NC Baptist Men
Steve Reavis - NCBM Disaster Relief State Volunteer Coordinator
steve@reavisandparrish.com
1-800-395-5102 (EXT 5599)


Samaritan's Purse
Samaritan's Purse will set up in three locations in Central and Eastern North Carolina.
Volunteers are needed for all three sites.
Skills Needed: Chainsaw skills are helpful but not required.
Location: Central and Eastern North Carolina
Length of Project: Approx. 10-14 Days
Length of Stay: No Minimum Stay Required (Day volunteers are welcome.)
Maximum Team Size: There is no limit on team size for this response.
http://spvolunteernetwork.org/projects/north-carolina-tornado-response-.aspx

"The Journey"

Caroline's Promise is so excited to share "The Journey" with you! The Journey is an interactive experience where you will have the opportunity to travel through stations, experiencing life for orphans in the United States and around the world. You may come alone or, better yet, share the experience with loved ones. The Journey is for adults and school aged children.


Please join us in praying that this event will deeply touch the people who attend and help us raise needed funds to continue the amazing work that Caroline’s Promise is doing to reclaim hope for orphans.

Date:
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Tour Times: 2pm - 7pm

Location:
C3 Church
300 NC Hwy 68 South
Greensboro, NC

A reservation is required. Order $5 tickets today and schedule your tour time! 
Click here to order your tickets: https://app.etapestry.com/cart/CarolinesPromise/default/index.php

Save $1,000 This Year in 3 EASY Steps

Love, love, love this idea from Redbook Magazine about an easy way to save $1,00 this year and a BIG chunk of cash for your retirement:

http://www.redbookmag.com/money-career/tips-advice/save-more-money

Health Care You Can Live With

Thanks to Dr. Scott Morris for taking some time to chat with us on the Morning Show today!  We are very excited about the idea of the Church being the answer to the health care crisis!  Here's some more info about Dr. Morris and the Church Health Center...

Dr. Scott Morris, a family practice physician and ordained United Methodist minister, founded the Church Health Center in 1987 to provide quality, affordable healthcare for working, uninsured people and their families. Thanks to a broad base of financial support from the faith community, and the volunteer help of doctors, nurses, dentists and others, the Church Health Center Clinic has grown to become the largest faith-based clinic of its type in the country. Currently, they care for over 54,000 patients of record without relying on government funding. Fees are charged on a sliding scale based on income. The average visit costs about $20.

For more information, visit:  http://www.churchhealthcenter.org/  and http://www.chreader.org/

Ace the Interview!

Randy Wooden with The Wooden Group shared some great tips about how to do a great job on your next job interview.  Want to know more?   He's hosting a free webinar tonight at 7:00 all about interviews.  Here is the link:  WWW.JUSTIN.TV/WOODENGROUP

If you'd like to speak with Randy personally, here is his contact info:

Wooden Group, Inc.

(O) 336.793.8040 (M) 336.403.0188
http://www.woodengroup.com/
Sign up for our free EDGE Newsletter
http://www.woodengroup.com/e-newsletter/

The Fridge Locker

Sick and tired of coworkers eating YOUR lunch?  This new device promises to make sure it never happens again:  http://www.fridgelocker.com/

Defeat the Daytime Drowsies!

Do you struggle to stay awake each afternoon?  This can be a real problem for people who work a regular "9-5" job.  Check out these tips from Fox News about how to cope with daytime sleepyness:
http://www.foxnews.com/imag/Wellness/ci.Beat+Daytime+Sleepiness.imagPrint