Happy Halloween and Happy November

Yesterday was Halloween and it rained all day and night, however, that did not stop the kids from coming out! What did you do for Halloween? We had a quiet night together. We ordered Chinese food and enjoyed my day off. My husband teased me for ordering so much food! It was nice to have leftovers though.

Can you believe it's November already? My husband's birthday is in 14 days.

I received 2 letters this week! I plan on writing back to them next week on my days off. I have 6 days straight of work until my next day off. Lucky me. I did write one letter today!

6 Letters

I am so surprised at myself, I feel accomplished! I wrote 6 letters in two days! That may not sound like a lot to you, but it's big for me! I haven't been in the letter writing mood, nor have I had anyone write me in some time. Well, I decided to change that! I started posting around asking for more pen pals and even started a new group on Facebook! The group is growing like crazy! Be sure to stop by and join us! We'd love to have you.

Three of the letters were for pen pals I had earlier this year but had to stop writing to. Another letter was to a pen pal that I owed a letter to. The last two letters were for new pen pals who sent me an intro letter!

Is your mailbox full?

More Pals on the Way?

Hey everyone! The last few days, I have been posting online looking for more pen pals. I am hoping I found some new pals! I wrote a letter today, the first in about a month and a half! Unfortunately I don't get much mail these days, I am hoping that will change.

How is your mailbox?

We're on Facebook!

Hey everyone! I am so excited! I just added our blog to Facebook! I also added the widget to the top of our blog.

I am still looking for guest bloggers or guest contributors for this blog! If interested, please leave a comment!

How are your pen pals? Are you having success finding new pen pals?

Baby Dances to Single Ladies

I saw this video on facebook yesterday. I am so glad someone posted this on youtube so I can share it with all of you. It's cute for about the first minute and a half, after that, you get the point!

Enjoy ~

Been Awhile

I know it's been awhile since I have posted. I started a part time job, I am now working in retail as a cashier! I am loving it. I am so happy to be working again, it keeps me busy.

As for pen palling, I haven't heard from my pen pals in awhile, but I understand. I am not complaining. I am actually looking for more pen pals. I am waiting for a letter from a new pen pal, and I still looking for more.

What's new with you?

Spoof Video

A few weeks ago, a wedding video hit the web and the news! Here's the video:




Well, now there's a spoof "divorce" video of the original, that I had to share! Enjoy!

JK Divorce Entrance Dance @ Yahoo! Video

Here's the article for more info about the above video! Enjoy!

Good News!

Hey all. I just wanted to share with anyone who reads this blog...

I have a job interview next week for a part time cashier position at Walmart! I am really excited! My husband and I hate not having any money coming in, so this job would be so great for us.

Do you work? If so, what do you do?

What are you up to?

Hi everyone. I know I haven't posted much on this blog. I was hoping to have guest contributors to blog with me! So far, nobody is interested! I am looking for fellow moms, women, and pen pallers, who love to blog! You would be welcome to blog about anything, not just pen palling.

In the meantime, I have been busy with another blog I just started. Since both my husband and I are not working, I am finding additional ways for us to save money. I have been looking for homemade recipes for beauty and other things, rather than buying expensive remedies at the store. You are welcome to visit my beauty blog! I welcome your comments and suggestions.

Everything else is going okay with us. My son just started speech therapy! I am excited and hope it leads to more for him.

So, what have you been up to? See you in the comments!

Mineral Makeup Doesn’t Have to Cost a Fortune

We have all seen the commercials for mineral makeup, been tempted to order the product. But did you know, those companies require a club membership to receive their products. Not only that, the products are pricey, at least for my budget! In these hard times, people are cutting back everywhere they can. You don’t have to cut back just to look great!

Attention Ladies: You do not have to break the bank just to look fabulous with mineral makeup!

Did you know mineral makeup is affordable, 100% natural, and good for your skin? Have you heard of Monet Minerals? Monet Minerals is mom owned and has been around since August 2007. Monet Minerals offers monthly sales and specials to help clients save money. Every order includes free samples. This gives you a chance to try new colors and products.

Are you aware of some of the benefits to using mineral makeup? Mineral Makeup does not clog pores or irritate the skin, which makes is essential for sensitive skin. A little product goes a long way, so you won’t end up spending so much in the long run. Mineral Makeup is water resistant, perfect for those who live in humid climates or for those who want to wear makeup while they are working out.

Monet Minerals have 5 or less ingredients in their products. Can you say that about your current makeup? Mineral Makeup does not expire, how great is that?

Mineral Makeup does not settle into lines and wrinkles, like store bought makeup. Mineral Makeup is versatile as well. You can mix the colors, you can wear then wet or dry to enhance your look.

Don’t settle for cheap, give Monet Minerals a try! You won’t be disappointed.

***I've been published, see this article at http://www.bukisa.com/articles/127491_mineral-makeup-doesnt-have-to-cost-a-fortune

Houseplant Care Tips

Do you have a brown thumb when it comes to houseplants? As a houseplant addict, I have several tips I have learned throughout the years to help others successfully keep your houseplants growing and thriving. Did you know houseplants naturally clean and filter your indoor air? Houseplants bring many benefits including calmness, productivity, and cheer to any room or office they are in. Plants can also help keep you healthy and reduce sick days!

The easiest way to kill a houseplant is over watering. Over watering refers to watering your plants more than the plant needs. With my plants, I try to water once a week or when the soil is dry to the touch. There is no need to water a plant everyday. When you do water your plants, make sure to drain the water from the plant dish, do not let your plants sit in water! Plants do not like having wet feet.

Assess the light your plants are receiving during the day. Are they receiving enough light? If you are unsure, check the tag that your plant came with, it lists what type of light your plant needs and watering instructions. If there is no tag, check online, there are many helpful websites, forums, and resources. Houseplants don’t like direct sunlight. In addiction, be sure to rotate your plants every few days, so they will grow evenly and each side receives sunlight.

Clean your plants. Take a soft cloth or damp paper towel and wipe the leaves of your plants. If you prefer, bathe your plants. Put them in the bathtub and light spray them with water.

I have learned that fertilizer is not required with houseplants. If your plants are receiving plenty of water and sunlight, they should thrive without fertilizer.

I hope my simple tips have helped you with the basics. I truly hope my tips have helped some. I love houseplants and adding new plants to my collection. Good luck to you!

***I've been published, see this article at http://www.bukisa.com/articles/128107_houseplant-care-tips

Happy Birthday!

Hey everyone! How is your summer going so far? We're having a nice relaxing summer! We've had a few barbecues too!

Well, today is my birthday! Is there anyone else out there celebrating a birthday today?

A Sister Group

Are you a member of our sister group, Pen Pal Mommas on cafemom? If not, you are missing out!

We just added new admins to our group! Two of our wonderful admins are working together and added a whole new forum called Game Room. There is a ton going on in our game room, be sure to stop by! If you enjoy games, you'll love our group!

If you are a member of cafemom, consider joining our group and checking out what we have going on! If you have any suggestions, ideas, comments, or questions, feel free to leave a comment! We'd love to hear from you!

My Birthday

My birthday is coming up this Friday! I can't believe it's almost here!


I am trying to convince my husband to take me to Chili's, since they are having a 3 course meal for 2 for only $20! What a bargain! Applebees is having something similar but they are only offering 2 courses for $20!

Going Bananas!

Do you go bananas over trying to open and peel a banana? Why not open a banana like a monkey!!?!

Here is a great video I found tonight. Enjoy! I certainly learned something new. My son loves bananas, now I won't have to struggle just to open a banana!

Abre uma banana como um macaco @ Yahoo! Video

Round 2 of Give Me 5

Back by POPULAR demand, It's Give Me 5!

It's really simple... if you are looking for pen pals, you'll want to sign up! All you have to do is write to at least 5 people (or more if you want). Once the list is sent out, you can write to ANY 5 people, you can start at the bottom of the list, or the middle, etc. It's up to you!

If you want to sign up, email me your address and email address! I can be reached at info at freebielicious.com. Sign ups will end on July 30th! List will be sent out on July 31st!

Give Me 5

Hey everyone! Are you looking for MORE pen pals? If so, sign up for "Give me 5"

It's really simple, if you are looking for pen pals, you'll want to sign up! All you have to do is write to at least 5 people (or more if you want). Once the list is sent out, you can write to ANY 5 people, you can start at the bottom of the list, or the middle, etc. It's up to you!

If you want to sign up, email me your address and email address! I can be reached at info at freebielicious dot com. Sign ups will end on July 10th! List will be sent out on July 11th!

Moderators Needed

Hey everyone! The following groups are needing moderator help! You would be helping us with the following: approve pending messages & members, promoting our group, and welcoming new members!

If interested, join the groups and let us know!

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BirthdayTwinsandPals/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LadiesPenPals/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LongLetteredLadies/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/OurSoldierPenPals/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/truebestfriends/

Going Homemade

I am always finding ways to save money, especially with the way the economy is. Have you found ways to cut down? Have you started making things at home, rather than go out and buy it in a store? If so, what? I am always looking for things to create at home, to help save money! I am sure our readers would love to hear your ideas!

We've started making our own homemade Arizona Green Tea! It saves us so much money, I am making a new pitcher at least once a day!

We are also going to make our own laundry soap! This sounds fun and I can't wait to see how long one batch will last us!

So, there are my money savers! Share yours!

How is YOUR mailbox?

Greetings everyone! Just stopping in to ask you all...

How is YOUR mailbox? Are you receiving plenty of letters daily/weekly?

What are your other hobbies, besides pen palling?

As for me, I am only receiving freebies and samples that I am signing up for. I would like to get back into pen palling.

I have been busy with other things, however.

I want to hear from you!

Hello readers! I am looking to get back into pen palling! Yay! However, I need YOUR help! I got this idea from another blogger, and I would love to see how this goes. I am starting a snail mail letter project!

I am looking to receive a letter from you! Email me for my address and I will reply back to your letter as soon as I can. Please keep in mind, I am a full time stay at home mom/work at home mom. I normally write back in about 2 weeks or so. I don't mind type written letters either.

If you are truly interested in writing me, please email me at penpals at freebielicious (.) com! I will post updates here on this blog and let everyone know who I hear from!

Stock Up on Stamps!

It's time to stock up on stamps if you can! The price of a first class stamp is going up another 2 cents, bringing the cost to 44 cents!

The new price starts on Monday, May 11th!

Your best bet would be to purchase the "forever stamps" this weekend! Forever stamps are just that, whether the price goes up, the stamps are still good to use without additional postage.

Neglected!

I know I have been neglecting this blog. I've had to put this blog on the back burner to handle my daily life. I am still looking for contributors to this blog, I would love to have other people writing for this blog! If you are interested, please leave a comment!

My in-laws were on vacation this week, and they return home tomorrow. I have had the pleasure of cooking for my family...and I didn't need to call the fire department, the house is still standing!

I still have not returned to pen palling, I really hope to very soon. I have been looking for additional ways to earn money from home. I recently started getting paid to blog! It's been really interesting and fun. I enjoy blogging and reading other blogs.

I recently started a new workout program called Turbo Jam! Have you heard of it? I am having so much fun with it. I hope to see results. Do you workout? What workout programs do you do? Do you go to a gym or workout at home?

My husband and I are both stay at home parents! It's been really great having him at home, he's able to spend time with our son and myself. He is starting college later this month to earn his bachelors degree in Criminal Justice! He's starting as a Junior, so he has 2 more years to complete. After that, he hopes to get into law school!

What is going on with your life? How many pen pals do you have? How many letters do you write a day? Week?

This may make you cry!

I just saw this story on yahoo and had to share it.

I hope it reminds people not to PREJUDGE a person by the way they look!

I just about cried from reading this story and watching the video. Very inspiring and uplifting!

Be sure to read the article and then watch the video. Click here

Here's the full video ~ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXX_gMFeWlc

What do you all think?

Love Freebies?

I just started a new blog and so excited about it.

Please visit: http://freebielicious.com ~ Love freebies, samples, goodies, and money saving tips? Bookmark us and visit often!

Whoopi's Wardrobe

I have always loved Whoopi Goldberg! She's a great actress and a great role model. She's funny, witty, opinonated, mature, smart, and so much more!


I saw this clip on AOL yesterday and applaud her for speaking out!




I do have to add, I have never liked those type of shows that tell people what they SHOULD be wearing. I wear what I want to wear! I don't care if "the look" is out of season or style. I wear what I have and what I like!

So, what do you all think? Do you agree with the magazine? Why? Do you disagree? why? How would you react if people were telling you how to dress? Share your opinions!

Earn FREE Swag!

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I have already earned enough to redeem for $15 in Amazon gift cards! I am still earning and can't wait to redeem for more swag!

The Bachelor - Jason Mesnick

Did you all see The Bachelor last night? Have you read the rumors beforehand? I am surprised that the rumors were true. I had a feeling it would happen but it was even better to watch. I felt bad for Melissa but she wasn't my pick. I liked Molly for the longest time and I even saw her at the end!

Melissa had the right to be upset as she was. I am glad she had a chance to tell Jason off like she did! Here is an article regarding their email conversation.

What are your thoughts?

Displaced

I am feeling displaced and a little sad lately. We just moved back in with my in-laws and will not be writing letters until we get our own place. But before we get our own place, my husband needs to find a job. We've (well, actually I have) been job hunting like crazy! We hope he gets this job he applied and interviewed for last week. Still waiting to hear from them. In the meantime, I am still looking and applying.

I am really wanting a place to call our own place, our own home. I would love to start writing letters again, but I am choosing to wait until we get moved in. I don't want to confuse and switch up my address with my pen pals.

Right now, I am the only one in my family that is "working." I have a work at home job. I am not getting rich, nor am I claiming to be, but it's money that I am earning! Thankfully, it's deposited directly into our bank account.

In other words, in addition to job hunting for my husband, I am also finding time to work at home. I also do PTC sites to earn a little bit of extra money.

How is everyone else doing out there? I hope you are all having better luck than we are.

Octo Mom

Okay everyone, what do you all think of Nadya Suleman (aka Octo Mom)?

When I first heard the news that a woman in California gave birth to 8 babies, I was surprised and happy for her. But the a few days later, news broke that this mom already has 6 other kids. So this ONE mom has 14 kids, and she's single and unemployed? Then she denies receiving any kind of financial help from the State, even though she's on food stamps. I am not trying to knock food stamps, we are on food stamps. :o)

I was disgusted when I read she launched her website asking for donations!

I am honestly tired of hearing about this woman. LOL Everyday something new comes out about her and it makes her sound even more crazy.

What do YOU think?

Stamp Prices

Did you hear the news?

Stamp prices are going up yet AGAIN! I am disappointed, sad, and upset, about this news! I am now really considering quitting pen palling or just write even less than I am now! This is getting ridiculous. It's almost 50 cents to send a letter!

What do you all think about this news? Share your thoughts and opinions!

Saving and Earning Money

With the current state of our economy, everyone seems to look for extra ways to earn and save money! It doesn't help that so any people are being laid off in record numbers.

I love to find new ways to save, especially with our energy bill. Here's a great article I found, called Making extra money without getting a second job.

I especially like idea #5. I already did one of the things listed HERE. We don't really use my son's room, so I closed off the vent in his room, as well as the vent in the kitchen and dining room.

How do YOU save money? Do you use coupons? Shop sales? Share your secrets!

Filing your Taxes FREE

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If you use this link, the federal and state will be free. As long as you meet the criteria below.

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FREEBIES 1-31-09

Beauty & The Beast Audiobook
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Looking for Pen Pals?

Are you looking for more pen pals? Fill this out! This will be posted in the comment section of this blog! Please remember, each question is optional.

Name:

Birthday:

Are you looking for new snail mail or email pals?

How can our readers reach you (email)?

How did you get started in pen palling?

How many letters do you receive (on average) per week?

What do you look for in a pen pal?

Anything you’d like to add?

Write to our Military

Writing to our military is a great way to boost morale and even brighten your life. Why not cheer someone up on the other side of the world? This is also a great way to make new friends! If you have the time, consider writing to our soldiers!

Here is a great site that lists names and addresses:

http://www.penpalsforsoldiers.org/MilitaryAddresses.php

Things to remember:

It takes 4+ weeks for your letter to reach them
Don't expect a response (right away), they ARE fighting for our FREEDOM
If you don't receive a response, feel free to keep sending your support
Keep your letters positive, light, and friendly
Send newspaper articles, comics, poems, cards, etc
Send a care package

FREEBIES ~ Shining Stars Publications

These freebies are from the U.S. Department of Education

Shining Stars: Second & Third Graders Learn To Read: How Parents Can Help Their Second & Third Graders Learn To Read

Shining Stars: First Graders Learn To Read: How Parents Can Help Their First Graders Learn To Read

Shining Stars: Kindergartners Learn To Read: How Parents Can Help Their Kindergartners Learn To Read

Shining Stars: Preschoolers Get Ready To Read: How Parents Can Help Their Preschoolers Get Ready To Read

Shining Stars: Toddlers Get Ready To Read: How Parents Can Help Their Toddlers Get Ready To Read

New Supplies

Don't you just love when you buy new pen pal supplies, such as pens, paper/stationery, envelopes, stickers, and more???

Well, I needed more paper to write my letters, so I finally bought some colorful paper! It's nothing fancy, but I like the paper! I am so excited and can't wait to write my pen pals. When I buy new supplies, I feel a little motivated to write letters right away!

When you buy new supplies, how does it make you feel? What have you bought recently to write your letters?

Welcome!

Welcome to the Official Snail Mail Pals blog! I just started this blog today!

The purpose of this blog to interact with fellow snail mail pallers and bloggers, as well as share ideas and news within the snail mail world! I am always looking for new friends and snail mail pals and love blogging!

I hope to add many different things to this blog, but I also welcome all thoughts, comments, and visitors to this blog! If you want to be a guest writer/contributor on this blog, feel free to leave a comment!

Thank you for stopping by! Don't forget to comment!