Are You A Changemaker?

I don't know anyone in my life that grew up wanting to change the World, sometimes it just happens.  That is the beauty of life... you get to choose if you want to step up or step out.  I was always a rebel because of the spark of knowledge my papa gave me at a young age.  If I didn't agree with something a teacher said, I would question it.  In my adult life, I have never been worried about sharing my opinion and if I felt something was off, I would take action.  There are several events in my life that I'm proud to have been a changemaker - participating in National Day of Protest on 10/22 and being involved in contract negotiations with my Union and my employer.  Some would say blame it on the music, I blame it on the fire inside.  Are you a CHANGEMAKER?  

Promised Land is the new contemporary drama directed by Gus Van Sant (Good Will Hunting, Milk). Matt Damon plays Steve Butler, an ace corporate salesman who is sent along with his partner, Sue Thomason (Frances McDormand), to close a key rural town in his company's expansion plans. With the town having been hit hard by the economic decline of recent years, the two outsiders see the local citizens as likely to accept their company's offer, for drilling rights to their properties, as much-needed relief. What seems like an easy job for the duo becomes complicated by the objection of a respected schoolteacher (Hal Holbrook) with support from a grassroots campaign led by another man (John Krasinski), as well as the interest of a local woman (Rosemarie DeWitt). Promised Land explores America at the crossroads where big business and the strength of small-town community converge.

Disclosure: This article is sponsored by Participant Media

60% OFF at Kidrobot!

Wish I saw this email earlier!  Kidrobot has select toys and apparel for 60% OFF for 6 hours!  It started at Noon ET so you have roughly 2 hours left to take advantage of this awesome sale!  Here are a few of my favorites - working on descriptions now but you should just see what they have cause some are already SOLD OUT!  

All City Breakers Mini 20-Pack
2-Inch Blue Edition $11.98

POP! Mini Series 'Corns
3-Inch $3.18

Leopard 'Stache Labbit Plush
14-Inch $15.98

Goon Squad: Lil Illych
4-Inch $3.98 (I got the Kim Il-Jong figure for Christmas and I love it!)

I Have A 16 Year Old

I have been referring to Omar as my littlest, Duke as my little, Damien as my big and Ty as my biggest for a few months.  My biggest officially turns 16 tomorrow.  SIXTEEN.  I didn't think I was going to be as emotional as I have been all day but when it hit me, it hit me.  My Tyler will be sixteen years old, only two years from the big eighteen.  Last month alone, he took Driver's Ed, got a car and is ready to get his permit.  He's been counting down the days till his 16th birthday so he can start applying for jobs.  I keep telling him to wait till he graduates from high school, to enjoy his teen years.  I remind him that I started working at 14 and he doesn't need to follow in my footsteps.   But he is exactly like me.  Ready to make money and not have to depend on anyone to give him money.  I can't believe what a responsible kid we've raised.  I can't tell you how proud I am of him - I have seen him tell his friends that drugs are dumb.  I thought standing up to my peers was hard in the 90s but these days, I know its rough.

The day after Christmas my kid wrote something on Facebook about being blessed that he has everything and that gifts are just a bonus and some kid told him he could lose some weight.  I was about to go off on the kid but my kid handled it well.  (I think he knew his Mama would've hurt the kid)

Thank you for being comfortable in your own skin and loving yourself.  Thank you for being strong, funny, smart, respectful, sweet, responsible, proud and kind.  I always wish for health and happiness for you my beautiful son.  I love you so much!  I am so proud that you are my kid!

My sister uploaded a picture of me at the hospital about 12 hours before I delivered on Instagram and then Ty uploaded it on his Instagram with the sweetest words.  No I'm not 16 in the picture, I was 21.  Excuse my ombre' hair - I refused to dye my hair when I was pregnant.   

A couple days old!

Almost 16 - towering over everyone at 6'2" (His height is a big deal to me, yes!)  Besides getting a job and his license, he's going for his Eagle Scout Badge!  

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TY!  WE LOVE YOU XOXO

#talesfromthethrift What I Bought

Is it too soon for another thrifting post?  I don't think so!  I haven't been thrifting in a couple weeks... was fighting a cold and lost the battle.  Homebound for a whole week straight and getting a little stir crazy!  I'm hoping to get some fresh air and hit the stores on Tuesday!  What have you scored lately?!  I would love to see your thrifting posts and hear your stories!  Show them hauls!  

Found this Vintage Culinary Institute of America Cookbook with wonderful forgotten recipes and gorgeous black & white pictures for .91!  I actually bought it for a friend but couldn't part with it.
Pigs In 'Taters anyone?  Totally going to try it!

Another Vintage find!  I don't want to call it a safe but its not really a recipe box either.  The key was inside and I couldn't resist the throwback colors and print!  Was only $3!

This was a very fun find for me.  I'm always looking for characters and this was a box of 12 but there was only 8.  One of them is chipped at the bottom but it gives it a little bit of personality!  Was a steal at $2!  They are made heavy, doesn't feel like wood and hand painted!

This thrift store is very hit or miss, most of the time miss... they only take cash and we were driving by saw the 50% off everything sign out front, had some cash on us so we decided to stop by.  The shop was packed and I could not believe no one picked up these Brand New SaltWater sandals!  They fit me perfect, my kind of color and a STEAL at $4!

Snowmen are so cute.  We wanted this sad guy in his cute scarf and not-so-perfect nose to come home with us... I turned him over to look for his price and found out he is a Department 56 piece!  Scored him for $3!

Vintage cherry glass.  I imagine there was a set of 4 but only saw 3.  I like even numbers and bought 2. I think they were .99 each

Vintage Santa glass .99 - Somehow I am building a Santa glass collection.

I know... you are wondering what is this and what the hell is she going to do with it.  Its a Vintage GE home hair dryer system!  The case is awesome.  It looks like a round suitcase.  I honestly don't know if it works, I don't care - it is in excellent condition.  Seriously.  Someone either loved this or never used it.  I'm not going to use it on me, I'm going to add it to my props collection.  It was only $1!!!

My husband and I have been looking for a globe forever.  Came across Vintage ones that were pretty scratched up, some were crazy overpriced and found this baby for $5.99!  We love it!  Duke loves it and always has questions!

DuckTales JELL-O molds still in the package!  Was only $1
Have you posted about thrifting, antiquing or shopping at the flea market in the past week?  Link up with #talesfromthethrift and share your finds!  Share the love with this button!  

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National Wear Red Day at Mimi's Cafe

Did you know that Heart Disease is the number 1 killer of women?  Ladies, take care of your hearts!  You can start by exercising, eating healthier and not stressing out so much!  If you are already taking these steps to prevent heart disease you are already on your way to a longer life!  Join me on National Wear Red Day, February 1st at Mimi's Cafe to raise awareness to our cause, our hearts <3     

Mimi’s Cafe is raising awareness throughout February, American Heart Month, by participating in the American Heart Association’s mission to turn America red. In its second year supporting Go Red for Women / Go Red Por Tu Corazón, Mimi’s is dedicated to shout louder and stand stronger for the fight against heart disease, the number one killer of women.

Beginning on the 10th National Wear Red Day, February 1st, Mimi’s will recognize guests who show their support by wearing red with a FREE cup of signature soup. Throughout the month, guests that donate $1 will receive a red heart-shaped tribute card to inscribe and post on a giant in-restaurant red dress display. A limited-edition sparkle red dress lapel pin will be given to those giving a $5 donation. As a thank you for every donation, donors will receive up to $30 in Mimi’s savings. Every Tuesday throughout the month, Mimi’s will thank warm-hearted guests that donate with a warm cup of FREE soup.

Heart health is non-negotiable. That is why in addition to fundraising, Mimi’s is taking the lead to elevate heart disease and heart health as top-of-mind issues for women and empowering all guests to make healthy decisions while dining out.

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Disclosure:  This is not a compensated post.  Mimi's Cafe is furnishing a gift card for me and my winners.  All thoughts are my own.

Madly Madagascar DVD Giveaway!

Duke and I finished our lunch of dino nuggets and salad, made ourselves comfy on the couch and got ready for a new Madagascar adventure! Madly Madagascar is so cute and funny - I loved the storyline!  Duke laughed, I laughed, we shared laughs.  It was the perfect way to end our day!
If you celebrate Valentine's Day with your kids or if you don't, you should totally get the Madly Madagascar DVD!

Your favorite Madagascar pals are back in an all-new adventure! Alex’s favorite holiday, Valentine’s Day, brings hilarious surprises and excitement for the entire gang. Melman plans a big surprise for Gloria, Marty tries to impress a new friend and everyone wants to get their hands on King Julien’s love potion. You'll fall in LOVE with Madly Madagascar!

Madly Madagascar will be available in stores and online on January 29th, 2013 but you can win a copy here!



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Disclosure: I was provided a copy of this DVD for review purposes.  Giveaway DVD is also provided but will be fulfilled by Fox.  All opinions are my own.

Power In Numbers - Where Are My #Orgullosa Women?

My Nana, the matriarch of our family was strong, unbelievably smart and instilled an immense amount of pride in me.  Even though she didn't specifically say, "Mujeres con La Falda Bien Puesta" (women with their skirts well positioned), she sure taught me how to be an Orgullosa woman by just watching how she conducted her day (cooking, cleaning, taking care of business!) and how she interacted with everyone.  She wore the crown and I wanted to be like her.     

I was talking with mi amiga Ruby earlier about my Papa teaching me at a very young age that I have a voice and never be scared to use it.  He taught me about my mixed ethnicities.  He taught me about being a second generation American.  At 7 years old, I can vividly remember him starting to teach me that when I turned 18 and was able to vote that I would need to vote or I would lose my voice.  I had no idea what he meant until I became a teenager and actually expressed my plans for life after high school to my counselor.  That was just my first step in exercising my independence.  

I credit my grandparents for teaching me these things and sharing their stories - life lessons that we sometimes overlook, I didn't know what it meant to be American until I had to stand up for what I believed in.  My whispers became shouts.  I prepared to use words as weapons - I have always fought the good fight.  Especially when other people can not.  Thanks to my beautiful grandparents, it is in my blood.  

One of the most important times I decided to flex my newfound voice was when we were going through contract negotiations at work in 1999.  Our contract was up and when we weren't going anywhere in negotiations, my Union decided that we had to take action and that meant staging a walk-out during a Santana concert.  I was so nervous, I had a career in management in my future and didn't know what to do.  I decided my beliefs were important and if I did this, I could be inspiring to my children and my coworkers.  About a week after that action, our contract was signed, sealed and delivered.  I can not tell you how empowered I felt.  

I took that power and have always used it to preach to family and friends that they can do anything they want in life.  I count on my community of blogger amigas to inspire, motivate and support me with any idea big or small.  These women know they can always count on me for words of encouragement.  

We women need to build up our communities so no one can take us down - not even each other.  There is power in numbers!  Together - with our diversity and individuality - we share limitless potential.  

Join the Orgullosa community.  Like Orgullosa on Facebook.  For more info, visit Orgullosa.com

Disclosure:  This compensated post is written in partnership with Orgullosa.com and Niche Mommy Network & Conference.  All thoughts are my own.  

Shutterfly Valentine's Day Cards Giveaway!

Valentine's Day is our 3rd favorite Holiday.  I wasn't a fan till I met my husband.  Chris makes it special for me every year by bringing me beautiful roses and the best card.  Sometimes he makes the card and sometimes he buys it, all that matters to me are his words.  Our Valentine's Day is complete when we go out to lunch or dinner.  Last year was sweet because I was pregnant and Duke was in school so we enjoyed a precious hour of alone time.  But we're funny and rushed over to Duke's school after lunch to surprise him at his Valentine's party.  What can I say... we love our kids and Valentine's Day is a family tradition for us.

With four sons, we hope we're teaching them how to share the love on February 14th and it starts with cards.  I live for choosing the right card.  Yes, I'm a dork like that.  I checked out Shutterfly's Valentine's Day Cards and so excited to order our first personalized cards for family and #culturefanclub!  There are over 50 new styles, fresh color stories, artistic typography and 5 different card sizes!

I couldn't help but check out Shutterfly Photo Gifts and would love a Woven Photo Blanket!  I know my mom would love one with a picture of the boys.  Other fun photo gifts are iPhone cases that can be personalized with photos or monogram - this would be perfect for my sister!  The photo mugs are perfect for my parents - my mom drinks tea and my dad drinks coffee so I was thinking of making a gift basket with teas and coffees with photo mugs of funny pictures of my sons!    

Check out Shutterfly Photo Gifts and tell me your favorite for a chance to win 50 4x5 Cards and 5x5 Desktop Plaque!  
 

Get Social with Shutterfly:  Shutterfly Blog / @Shutterfly on Twitter / Shutterfly on Facebook / Shutterfly on Pinterest / Shutterfly on Instagram / Shutterfly on Google+

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Disclosure:  Shutterfly is providing products in exchange for this post and giveaway.  All thoughts are my own.

#talesfromthethrift Vintage Toys!

These are some of my favorite, recent finds!  Over a course of 3 months though... I wish I could just walk into a thrift store and score like this.  

Vintage Fisher-Price Cash Register!  It is in better condition than the one my brother and I shared.  Was only $2.98 - Duke loves it!

I assumed these were Fisher-Price Little People but I can't find any info on them anywhere.  These lovely girls were .49 each!

80s Playskool robot Alphie.  He doesn't have his cards and I don't know if he works but I figured he'd be good for a prop.  And he was a steal for .91!

Vintage Mattel See 'N Say in the box!  We found 2, they were $2.98 each

I can't resist Vintage toys especially from the Strawberry Shortcake line.  She was only $2


Have you posted about thrifting, antiquing or shopping at the flea market in the past week?  Link up with #talesfromthethrift and share your finds!  Share the love with this button!  

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FREE SeaWorld San Diego Pass for Preschoolers!

SeaWorld in San Diego is offering FREE Annual Passes to kids ages 3-5 years old!  You can sign up here.  

Disclosure:  This is not a sponsored post.  

Tales From The Thrift #tftt

It has been awhile since I blogged about thrifting!  I had no idea it was a favorite until I did a quick survey last week.  I have been checking-in at my favorite thrift stores every week and the shelves have been bare.  I was hoping people were donating because of the Holidays but it seemed like everyone took their Christmas cash and did some shopping!  I blame Macklemore's Thrift Shop song!  I was able to score some fun stuff lately and there have been some some funky stuff I passed on.  It is always an adventure!

I passed on the adorable red suitcase because Chris says I have enough hard bodied suitcases (I only have 2!).  I had one when I was a little girl and my brother had a blue one!  I remember traveling with it to my Grandpa's in The Philippines.  I really loved it.

Looks like someone got rid of their Japanese white ceramic figures.  I wondered what the holes were and my friend Marilla of Cupcake Rehab said her Nana had umbrellas in them!

Scary clown and even scarier couple.  Two bags of vintage plastic nuts for .99!  The two vintage owls were uber cute but not for $7.99 each, pass.  We picked up the monkey mask and its currently hanging right next to our Alphabet Photography piece.  Every time I see a "Made in USA" tag, I immediately think it is probably the only one that survived its era (so basically "OOAK" or One Of A Kind).  The sweater was gorgeous, not my size or color.

There was also the Nate Berkus x Target tortoise shell for $19.99 - I thought maybe it was past season but saw it tonight at my local Target for $39.99!  From what I understand is that Target will unload some of their stuff to Goodwill at a discount - not free!

I also scored a pair of Seychelles in almost new condition for $9.99!  Hoping I lose 10 pounds in my feet so I can wear 'em this Summer!  HAHA
       

I bought this cause its so cute and in my price range $3.99 - Vintage markings and stamped "Made in Japan"

Duke said this bear is practicing for the "club" #facepalm Its a paper towel holder.  We think he's going to be a comedian.  

Liz from Peach on Earth used the hash tag #talesfromthethrift on a picture and I asked if we could share  since it describes exactly how my thrifting life is!  So thank you Liz for birthing an awesome hash tag!  

Have you posted about thrifting, antiquing or shopping at the flea market in the past week?  Link up with #talesfromthethrift and share your finds!  Share the love with this button!  

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