Sally McMullin

Take 5....

2010-02-08T12:29:00.006-06:00

I, like many of you, am guilty of the "P-word"! PROCRASTINATING!!!

Usually when I want to get things done I set a timer for at least 15 minutes and work on that task. But this time I decided to see how long a few things would actually take so that I could share them with YOU, in hopes of encouraging US.

I had alot of receipts in my purse and decided to go through them to shred/file/toss....surprisingly it only took me 3:30. HA! That's nothing yet I feel so relieved to have this done and have my purse not filled with paper. (I had waaay more receipts than you see in the snapshot)

Clearing off my nightstand/bookcase 4:46...GREATNESS huh? Finally, I had a couple of boxes I've been staring at since I moved in. Within 30 minutes VOILA!

Soooo in about 38 minutes I had unpacked 2 boxes, cleaned out receipts from my purse and organized my nightstand. Not bad at all.

What have you been putting off? Set aside 5 minutes now and another 5 minutes tonight and you might be amazed at what you can accomplish in so little time. TAKE 5...Action!

I'll leave you with a little quote from someone I admire greatly:
"Take small steps. Don't let anything trip you up. All those steps are like pieces of a puzzle. They come together to form a picture. When it's complete, you've reached your ultimate goal, step by step. I can't see any other way of accomplishing anything."~Michael Jordan

Open House Tours

2010-02-02T23:26:00.011-06:00

As you guys know, I enjoy going to the open houses because I get a chance to see all types of decor. I love seeing how others live. Also when I think the home is fabulous I am always wondering WHERE the current homeowner is moving. Call me curious or call me nosey.... I like what I like!

Below are pictures of a tri-level townhome... the owner (local news anchor) will be relocating to LA.

The entryway....

This bathroom actually looked better in person

This artwork was on the wall in the guest bedroom. I love it!

Den area.... very sparse due to staging I suppose....

The living area.... I am a person who likes ALOT of stuff with a "homey" feel but I can appreciate the minimalist approach.

The homeowner had a nice sculpture near each stairway

Bedroom.... I have to remind myself that this home has been staged to sell to keep my mind from saying... where are the BOOKS, the magazines, slippers, etc... :)

Great View!

Ralph Lauren lover.....

Organized eh?

This next home combined two apartments to make one unit. They entertain alot and one of the homeowners is an artist (which explains the vibrant colors). I saw three homes and this one was my favorite. This couple will be relocating to Maine (I think...)

I love love LOVE how he hung these picture (hook & chain)

Kitchen area.... this is the center of the two apartments combined

Guest Bedroom.... I could certainly curl up here for a weekend visit.

Master bath... look closely on the left in the back.... that's the washer & dryer. Make sense because you take your clothes off here as well as towels but I'm not so sure how I feel about having it in the bathroom.

Well that's it....Lemme know if you wanna share pics of how you live, I'm always eager to look! Smooches!

Tidy Up

2010-01-26T09:49:00.003-06:00

If you love a clean home this is for you! I am IN LOVE with this product . I learned about it from Kevin Sharkey's blog. I ordered it and I can't get enough of it. In fact, I am about to order another pack for the bathroom. It's also a GREEN product.

This kitchen pack comes with 2 cloths ($18 w/FREE & fast shipping) general purpose cloth and a glass polishing cloth. All you need is water to use these. I spray water on my glass, mirrors, countertops, fridge or whatever and wipe with the glass polishing cloth and there are NO STREAKS. This cloth is THE BUSINESS! I also wet the general purpose cloth and wipe down stuff and follow with the glass polishing cloth.

I even use the glass polishing cloth to dry wine glasses or anything that I don't want fingerprints on. I'm telling you this product is FABULOUS! I have totally cut down on my paper towel use and the use of cleaning products.

If you decide to order let me know what you think.... Smooches!

OMG It's Been Too Long...

2010-01-21T09:51:00.010-06:00

It's been a while since I've updated my blog. One word: LIFE! Many of you know I've moved, gone thru a break-up and turned 40 all during the same time frame.

I've taken quite a few pictures and thought I'd share a few with you in an effort to "get back on the horse" with my blogging. I'm reminded of the quote fall down 7 times and get up EIGHT!

Feel free to check back often for updates.... Smooches!

Sooo excited to have a gas stove!

First meal I made (chicken fajitas) I make this often... made it twice here already.

The BEFORE: Ugh! I have a SMALL love affair with books! I got a lot to do.

AFTER: I got most of the cookbooks organized.

The counter cleared off.....

Where the blogging goes down (that's my knee as I sit here in my robe!)

My new view! It's great and I feel soooo BLESSED! It makes me HAPPY to look out the window!

FOCUS DAY-Whatchu Workin' On?

2009-04-13T22:31:00.002-05:00

Join me for this FOCUS DAY on April 14th!

Caramel Pound Cake Video

2009-04-12T18:25:00.006-05:00

You can find the recipe HERE!

I'm Back!

2009-04-06T10:10:00.003-05:00

Finally I'm back to updating my blog! Yikes it's been too long! Figuring out ways to keep up with all that I enjoy (blogging, Facebooking, emailing, letter-writing, etc....)

Alot has happened since my last post in October so I am looking forward to catching you guys up. For those of you on Facebook you kinda know what's been happening.

One of the things I am excited about is my part-time gig. I started back working with children at an organization I worked full-time from 95-97. It's a HUGE challenge but I am up for it! It's part of my quest to help change the planet (James Ray fans). I leave there EVERY SINGLE DAY with a story to tell.

We (Darryl & I) also attended a life-changing seminar in NY/New Jersey in early March so I will definitely be sharing more of that!

The picture was taken in NY. I'm very attracted to great architecture and people who live in fabulous places. I just thought the place was pretty.

I also FINALLY purchased the Kitchen-Aid Mixer I have been dreaming about FOR"like'EVER so there will definitely be future post on recipes using it.

I am at a really good place in life. Not because there have been major changes but because my outlook on it is more focused than ever. I have always been an optimist but now it's been fine tuned even more!

Please continue to stop by for my updated posts! Kisses! ~SM

The Kindle

2008-10-28T09:27:00.003-05:00

I submitted my order for THE KINDLE last night! After much research and thought I decided that it would be a great purchase for me. I enjoy reading and often I am reading more than one book. Recently I joined a book club so I think this will work out fabulously!

Stay tuned because I will be sure to give you guys a review after I experience it. It will be in my hot little hands tomorrow!

IF you have already decided to purchase one as a gift or for yourself you can ORDER HERE. Use the code OPRAHWINFREY thru FRIDAY (Oct 31st) to receive an additional $50 off!

Fascinating Friday- Louise Hay

2008-10-24T23:42:00.004-05:00

I adore her! I have watched her videos and read some of her books. She recently received a Minerva Award from Maria Shriver. Enjoy!

"Pinking Of You!"

2008-10-24T21:51:00.006-05:00

I'm a fan of OPI Nail Lacquers and this is my latest favorite.... "Pinking of You!" It's a great color for all skin tones. If you are still treating yourself to manicures in "this economy" ask your Nail Specialist for it on your next visit. If you've decided to cut back and DIY then you can order it HERE.

Lipstick Jungle

2008-10-24T20:50:00.005-05:00

Okay who's watching? I am soooo into this show. I am LOVING THE FASHION! Like the necklace Nico (I like this working woman) is sporting in this picture. I am gonna be on the hunt for a knock off! Of course we knew the fashion was going to be on point. Afterall, it IS Candace Bushnell (Author of Sex In The City). I love the bold necklaces and the big chunky rings! An accessory is always a great way to kick your outfit up a notch!

Check out this GREAT SITE that lets you shop for some of the stuff you see on the show. You can pick the person whose style you admire and see how to duplicate the look! Too cute!

Would love to hear what you guys think of the show. Smooches!

Fascinating Fridays

2008-10-17T17:28:00.008-05:00

I have been a fan of Sara Blakely's entrepreneurial story for quite some time. Nooooo I didn't have the wonderful pleasure of interviewing her myself but I find her FASCINATING and thought I would share her inspirational story with you guys!

Pssstt....She has an inexpensive version of SPANX at Target... Assets!

The Road To Entrepreneurship Wasn't Easy
Working as a sales trainer by day and performing stand-up comedy at night, I didn't know the first thing about the pantyhose industry (except I dreaded wearing most pantyhose). Also, I had never taken a business class which made the process even more challenging. As a result, I had only one source to operate from...my gut.

First the Patent
I read several books on trademarks and patents and researched pantyhose patents at the Georgia Tech Library at night after work. I then approached several lawyers who thought my idea was so crazy that they later admitted thinking I had been sent by Candid Camera. To keep costs down, I wrote the patent myself and later found a lawyer who helped write the claims. My patent was approved and I successfully trademarked the name SPANX online!

Click HERE to read her full bio

Hold That Thought!

2008-10-17T17:05:00.003-05:00

I recently found these tabs at Barnes & Noble and I LOVE them. They are so cute and fun. I like the fact that they are arrows instead of the traditional post-it flags (I use those too).

You get 100 for only $1.95. The stores have them in stock however online is out of stock for now. I would advise making note of the ISBN (064165899-0) so that the Sales Rep can easily locate these for you.

I use them for marking my favorite pages in books and magazines. I also like to use them to mark pages if I am gifting a recipe book to a friend so they know what meal to invite me over for! (smile).

Hope you like them as much as I do!

**these were made exclusively for Barnes & Noble so you will not find them at the traditional office stores**

Giving Up Soda

2008-10-16T22:16:00.006-05:00

Well I decided yesterday to give up soda! I am doing things slowly vs. drastically because I don't want to feel deprived. I realize that I am still going to long for that fizz so I have decided to replace it with some alternatives that I find at Whole Foods!

One such find is Hansen's Sparkling Water. I JUST discoverd this and I really like it (I've tried Valencia Orange)! It has a nice fizz AAAANNND the packaging is cute & sleek! They have several different flavors...Blueberry Pomegranate, Dragonfruit, Cranberry-Grapefruit & Valencia Orange. Hmmm.... I'm going to try a couple of those (not so sure about that cranberry-grapefruit). Hansen's also offer's sugar-free flavors as well. I'm not there yet!

So if you're up for a great soda alternative this is a good one! You can purchase them online HERE or stop in your local Whole Foods Market and give 'em a try! Lemme know what you think! Smooches!

Fascinating Fridays

2008-10-03T10:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Fascinating Fridays! Each Friday there will be an interview with someone I find fascinating and interesting. I have always enjoyed meeting people and learning different things about them. For instance...

How they became successful
How they got the big beautiful home
What are you doing that allows you to drive a convertible Bentley
Was it inherited or did you start out with nothing

I have been known to stop someone and ASK them to tell me how!

--- One day I was driving in town and I saw this beautiful "mature" blonde driving a convertible white Bentley with white interior. I was thinking "What does this woman do!? I followed her to the parking lot (yes I really did this) and I approached her and said.... "I know this is odd, but what do you do and can you show me how!? Her reply was... "I married a son-of-a-bitch and he OWES me!" She was very pleasant and not put off that I had approached her--- I was FLOORED! To me, that is fascinating and interesting!

I like to know the story behind what I see. I decided if I wanna know, maybe others would like to know also!

So with that said..... Here's the first Interview!

Today I had the wonderful pleasure of interviewing Nancy Krabill. Nancy is the owner of Flavors from Afar! Flavors from Afar is an interactive gourmet boutique in Dallas, Texas. She and her Husband started Flavors from Afar after she returned from a Girlfriend trip to Paris.

The Krabill's initially started out as a Home-Based business in 2002. They would host "Italian Evening" parties! The participants would get a passport, taste olive oils, enjoy an Italian dinner and have the opportunity to purchase various products. In 2004 they opened the Flavors From Afar storefront.

What is your full name? Nancy Reed Krabill

Where are you originally from? Dallas, Texas--- I grew up on Rosedale Street and went to school in Highland Park. I currently live in McKinney, Texas

Did you go to college? Yes--- Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. I have 3 degrees from Emory. Bachelors in English, Masters in Education (taught in GA) & Masters in Business

Did you grow up in a 2 parent home? Yes

What type of "head start on life" did your Parents give you? They paid for my college education and after that I was on my own!

What role does spirituality play in your life? I am currently taking a class at my church that is basically teaching us to bring more creativity into what we do! So I am able to do more of that at Flavors from Afar through blogging as well as writing daily.

What do you do for fun? Travel to Italy. Twice a year we take groups to Italy (April & September)

Favorite Curse Word? Zut Alors (french for dang, dammit)

Pet Peeve? People who are unaware of burdens they place on others (I believe they are really aware)!

Describe a major life hardship/challenge? It was during the dot-com time. We had big dreams! On paper we were multi-millionaires and then the stock tanked. That was a paradigm shift!

Last Book You Read? The Leopard by Giuseppe Di Lampedusa

Favorite Quote? Carpe Vinum~ "Seize The One!"

What do you do for exercise? I walk most mornings with my neighbor.

Favorite Food? Pici Pasta which is like a big fat spaghetti

How old were you when you felt like you had "made it"? I was 40-- AT&T paid for me to get my Masters in Business. I graduated with Honors and the fact that AT&T believed in me really made me feel like I was successful.

What do you feel is the secret for success? Be confident in the face of adversity! Be COURAGEOUS!

Did you follow your passion? Now I am living my passion. When I was working in Telecom I wasn't. I am passionate about Flavors From Afar because I get to connect with people and their stories. I am also passionate about the history of Italy.

Millionaires Again? On Paper! (smiles)

Please visit Flavors from Afar at www.flavorsfromafar.com or drop in at 6712 Snider Plaza Dallas, Tx 214/696-2327

Yummy Cinnamon Rolls

2008-09-30T20:02:00.017-05:00

Okay Everyone! Here's another recipe out of Katie Lee Joel's Cookbook! I was so glad I made this. My only disclaimer.... this is a weekend recipe or rainy day recipe. It is definitely a process but with a YUMMY payoff!

Here's is the beginning of the process. Getting stuff together. I got that rolling pin from Williams-Sonoma. I could hang out in that store for hours!

The yeast. I had to use 1 package mixed with warm water & some sugar. Let is sit for 5 minutes.

The dough coming together...

Okay this was during the kneading process! Let me tell ya I was thinking I could get away with not working out after kneading that bread. Recipe says knead for 8-10 minutes. I think I have Madonna arms now!

Into the fridge for 3 hours.... I felt like a kid..."Is it ready yet!"
Cinnamon & Sugar Mixture
Greasing the pan with butter...
Now for the rolling out! Another workout.... Woo I'm doing 2 a days! ;)
Rectangle 20x10...

You got it! MORE BUTTER! 1/4 cup to be exact
Sprinkle the sugar & cinnamon mixture evenly
Looks even to me.... now the rolling into a cylinder begins....
The cylinder.....
I cut them and put them in the pan they will cook in

What do you know... BUTTER! Hey, I'm just following the recipe!
After they have been at room temperature for 2 MORE hours. Total 5 hours. They've Risen!
After cooking for 40 minutes
Oh this reminds me, I didn't include the pic of the icing I made! Sorry guys! But here it is on the cinnamon rolls! 1 cup of confectioners sugar & 2 Tablespoons of milk. Poured it on right out of the oven!
This is the one I served up to DG (my BF) nice, hot & goey!

They were sooo sweet! I loved them & he says they reminded them of ones his Mom made when he was little! He ate 2 of 'em! The recipe yields 12 so I am giving some to our neighbor and Concierge as well. I put them in cute packaging but the pic didn't upload. If you REALLY wanna see email me and I'll send it to ya!

As always ask me anything! If you wanna get her book you can CLICK HERE! Smooches & Happy Cooking!

I'm Soaking This Up!

2008-09-26T13:44:00.010-05:00

Okay I'm sooo LOVIN' these. Why? These sponges are little flat thingies until you wet them and then POOF! They are fantastic and indestructible (unlike the ones from grocery stores). You can only get these at Williams Sonoma. They have been around for years but I just discovered them so I wanted to tell you guys about 'em.

I have used 'em in the bathrooms and the kitchen. I'm telling you they are great. I opted to buy the regular size because it fits comfortably in my hand. They come in yellow and pink. The pink is only in the larger size (BUMMER).

I use the dishwasher to clean the sponges. Oh... I haven't had any problem with them being stinky winky either, which is wonderful! Enjoy!

I took a pic of mine so you could see.

The regular ones have 12 in a pack for $14 & the large have 6 in a pack for $12

Chicken Pot Pie

2008-09-16T23:22:00.020-05:00

Okay I decided to try out the Chicken Pot Pie in Katie Lee Joel's Cookbook ("The Comfort Table"). Did you guys see her on Oprah a while back? I thought she was soooo adorable.

Check out my process below....

The recipe is on page 96 in the book...

I picked up ingredients from my FAVE store.... Whole Foods!

Okay I'm boiling the stock (onions, bayleaves, peppercorn...)
Pearl onions... boiling 3 minutes makes them easy to peel.
peeled pearl onions, mushrooms, peas & carrots)
Cooking those in 3 Tbsp of butter! Smellin yummy!

Added in the milk & reserved stock. Stir til thick.
Now the chicken has been added. Her recipe calls for 4 boneless breast I only used 2... I didn't want that much meat.
Here's the dough I rolled out. I purchased Dufour from Whole Foods(her recommendation) A whoppin $9.99 but I LOVED IT! So easy to work with!

The beaten egg to brush on the pastry... That's a Nigella Lawson bowl I got a few years ago.

I layed the pastry over the filling. Katie did 4 individual bowls & I love that idea. So I will definitely have to buy 4 (2-cup) bowls for the future
This is the pot-pie after it't out of the oven (oven for 35 minutes).... Looks DELISH, right?

This is after we made our plates..... If you look at the first picture you can tell she used alot more chicken than I did. I usually give most of the meat to my BF so 2 chicken breast were plenty for us. If you have meatlovers definitely use all 4.

We enjoyed it! I will definitely make it again. Next time I will use the individual bowls just cuz I think that will be CUTE! A Girl's gotta have cute, right?

Let me know if you decide to try it and feel free to ask me any questions.

Be GREEN!! ~Click Bag To Purchase

2008-09-09T13:41:00.002-05:00

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this bag!!!

Can You Come Out & Play...

2008-09-02T03:04:00.003-05:00

Remember when we were little and we would go to our friend's house and say... "Can Tanya (my childhood friend) come out and play? Well I'm asking you to come out and play with me!

Click HERE to play! Smooches!

History, Proud, Emotional & Pure Joy!

2008-06-04T11:45:00.005-05:00

These are all the things I am feeling. I am so excited that I had an opportunity to take part in this Historical Event!

One of the things that excites me most is that young black men who may have felt hopeless can now stand a little taller and MAYBE for the FIRST TIME they feel that there is hope!

Barack Obama IS the Democratic Nominee! Man! EverySINGLEtime I hear that I get a smile on my face and goosebumps all over!

This is indeed what the Audacity of Hope can do! Congratulations Barack!!!

Word Diet Results!!!

2008-02-06T11:28:00.000-06:00

Well the week is up! This was a tough assignment. The first day I began a car come to a HALT right in front of me. And while I am not a road rage kind of person (anymore) I still had to watch my WORDS. Once I made it home I had internet issues. Then there was my loved one talking about how he had been wronged and I wanted to jump in and talk about the person who had wronged him. Talk about being tested.

What I learned from all of this is... it takes a special kind of awareness to speak ONLY words of healing, blessing and prosperity. So many of us say things without even thinking. We say hurtful things, unnecessary tacky things and sometimes we just talk to be talking. I found that I had several moments of silence. There were times when I wanted to talk about a fashion faux pas or co-sign a negative comment made by a Friend. It's funny that I felt the need to EXPLAIN why I wasn't joining in a conversation. I somehow felt like the odd man out.

I am glad that I had this self-imposed challenge. I walked away with a new awareness. I consider myself to be a thoughtful and considerate person but I am guilty of some gossip here and there, some "what did she have on!" comments and lashing out at people who have hurt me. But I am learning that it is indeed possible to become more aware of what I am saying. I read a quote this morning that is appropriate....

"A WISE MAN WATCHES HIS FAULTS MORE CLOSELY THAN HIS VIRTUES; FOOLS REVERSE THE ORDER."

So according to the above quote I am WISE to be looking at this part of me! I hope you had a chance to try out The Word Diet too and I hope it allowed you to look deeper within and take some personal inventory.

This also came at a perfect time because Oprah announced her new book... "A New Earth!" by Eckhart Tolle. It's about awakening and living CONSCIOUSLY vs. UNCONSCIOUSLY! Her disclaimer is you must be READY to be awakened in order for the book to be effective. After The Word Diet I am ready! Ready to live in a much more CONSCIOUS way than ever before!

"THE WORD DIET!"

2008-01-29T16:37:00.000-06:00

Well I have decided for 7 days to go on a "WORD DIET"! I can ooooonnnly imagine what I am in for. The GOAL.... To only use my words for THREE purposes... HEAL, BLESS or PROSPER! Oh my goodness what am I taking on? I am shaking as I type this!

So where did I get this OUTlandish idea? One of my all time favorite authors, Florence Scovel Shinn. Ms. Shinn was long before The Secret (which I am also a fan of). In one of her books (The Power of the Spoken Word) she mentions an old saying...."..man dares only uses his words for three purposes...to heal, bless or prosper.

I have read the book a few times and this is the first time that I have really taken that part in. It jumped out on the page in such a way I thought, WHY NOT!?!

With that said, starting TODAY (29 Jan. 08) at 6pm Central Standard Time, "The Word Diet" begins. Believe me this will be a tough tough 7 days. My words has ALWAYS been hmmmm..... let's say...... INTERESTING! I am no stranger to confrontation, or to lash out and tell you how I REALLY feel about something. I have given up and tried many things in my life but never anything like this (well once I gave up cursing for about 8 months).

I am eager to know the outcome. I have been successful with doing SOME things cold turkey in the past. However this one is a doozie!!! I vow to journal/blog during the seven days so check in and see how it's going. Heck, why don't you join me on the journey and share your outcome by posting your comments.

I will leave you with some words that brings healing to me.....

"My happiness is God's affair, therefore, no one can interfere!"

The clock is ticking..... 5:32pm CST..... Sheez...

Why Do We Judge???

2008-01-25T16:30:00.000-06:00

It seems that lately I have personally been faced with alot of JUDGING people! It is because of that, I find myself taking a look within to see if I too am guilty of judging others. Nothing can make me angrier faster than someone who is judging me for doing something that they too have done in their past. But somehow they have forgotten!

It is so easy to sit outside of a situation and say what you would or would not do. However, the truth is, YOU DON'T KNOW! You don't know until/unless you are in that situation. Now I will admit that I have learned that lesson during the last 5 years. There are some things I have done, been involved in or dealt with that you could not have told me in a MILLION YEARS I would have.

So what are your thoughts on WHY WE JUDGE??? Our own insecurities? Our false realities? Our upbringing? Fear? What? I propose that it is FEAR!? To me fear encompasses ALOT . It is easier to Judge than to say... You know I feel/felt the same way, I experienced that also, I see how that could work so well or I wish I could do that too.

People have a FEAR of what others THINK! Period! So Judging is easier.... Much more of a reflex/second nature. You did WHAT!? She did WHAT?! He said WHAT!?

So to you AND to me I say... Next time you feel that urge to speak about what someone else has done/is doing, RESIST! Instead TRY to look at it from that person's point of view. And what's in your past OR present that you wouldn't want to be judged on??!! Remember your path in life is not the only path!

I'll leave you with a quote that I really like....
"When you judge another, you do not define them, you define yourself."-- Dr. Wayne Dyer

"Pie Equals 3!"

2007-10-19T04:38:00.001-05:00

Well I finally made it over to Fireside Pies! When I walked in I immediately liked the atmosphere. It was a really cool spot. I saw younger people out having drinks, I saw a family having a pizza night out and then there was a more mature couple having both (pizza & a drink!) So needless to say this is a place for everyone.

It was Thursday night so it was quite busy! --- Somehow Thursday seems to be the new Friday! --- So let's get down to the real stuff, THE FOOD! I wasn't sure what to order because I didn't see what I normally like (white pizza). However, the two young ladies next to me had a pie that looked quite appetizing. So I asked...."Which one is that!?" I was told it was recommended by the Server and it was Paula's Fresh Mozz and they added chicken. So it was decided.... I ordered Paula's Fresh Mozz!

My pie arrived and the presentation was so FABULOUS my mouth watered (fresh tomatoes, basil, roasted basil chicken & yummy mozzarella)! I couldn't wait to get that first bite! I took my first bite and it was quite tasty and pleasant but not that "Oh my God" I was looking for! Will I eat my leftovers..."Yes!"... will I order it again..."No!"

If I had to sum it up using a 1-5 scale..... pie (3) atmosphere (5) service (5+) free shot(5+) & the pricing (1) ----Let's talk about the pricing for a sec. I thought it was a li'l overpriced to begin with and one of my pet peeves (BEING NICKLED AND DIMED....drives me NUTS!) for fresh parmesan ($1) for ranchhouse sauce ($1) to add chicken ($2) So needless to say my $13 pizza went up to $16. I sacrificed on the parmesan (bummer!)

I still would recommend Fireside Pies. If you haven't been, please go for the experience and the great atmosphere. There are some dining spots that I frequent for drinks and atmosphere ONLY so it's doable!

She's Having A Baby!

2007-10-18T21:36:00.000-05:00

Well my Friends are PREGO!!! I am soooo excited for them! And I know her.... she will be on every site imaginable learning about babies, motherhood, child-rearing, you name it!

I saw this little onsie and I thought it was perfect for them. Papi is Latino... I mean how adorable! Now I betcha she is on the hunt now to see where this onesie is! But consider it my TREAT! When the baby arrives I will have it for him/her/him!

Know of any cool sites for Mommies-To-Be? Besides the obvious ones that everyone already knows about. Send me the link and I will pass it on! Now I know of someone who can actually go in that cool store Pickles & Ice Cream!

Congratulations My Dear Friends! mmmmmWAH!!!

Beware--- For The Obsessive Only!!

2007-10-02T01:19:00.001-05:00

Take A Look

STOP Junk Mail

2007-10-02T00:44:00.000-05:00

Well one of my friends found the answer! She told me her junk mail has dramatically decreased to almost NADA! NOTHING! ZILCH!

So listed below are the steps to take to stop the JUNK MAIL once and for all...

1) Pre-approved Credit Card and Insurance Offers: Call 888-567-8688 (888-5-OPT-OUT) from your home telephone; it will be checked against an address database. Or visit www.optoutprescreen.com/.

2) Experian Consumer Services will also remove your name from non-credit offers—coupons, flyers and catalogues—that result from its lists. Call 402-458-5247 to opt out of these mail and telemarketing offers.

3) Direct Marketing Association — To stop receiving mailings from DMA members, go to www.dmaconsumers.org/cgi/offmailing. Please note, “consumers” is plural in the address. Alternately, you can access their Mail Preference Service via http://www.the-dma.org/ and click on the orange box that reads “remove my name from mailing lists.” Opting out will take your name off the lists of those companies with whom you do not already do business with. You can opt out online or by mail; there’s a $1 charge either way to verify your credit card or checkbook identity.

4) Catalogues - If you’re getting swamped with catalogues—including those from companies you’ve never patronized—chances are it’s because at some time you made some purchase from some catalogue…or perhaps simply requested one. When either of those actions occurs, your name and address are very likely handed over to Abacus, an alliance of catalogue and publishing companies. Abacus members routinely swap customer information. To stop individual catalogues from reaching your home, contact the specific company in question. To stop en masse mailings, send an e-mail to optout@abacus-us.com.

5) “Resident” and “Occupant” Mailings: To fend off flyers offering various goods and services, contact: ADVO, Inc. You can remove your name and address by Complete the form at: www.advo.com/consumersupport.html

6) Val-Pak: Packs arriving in a blue envelope can be stopped via a quick visit to http://www.coxtarget.com/mailsuppression/s/DisplayMailSuppressionForm

7) Do Not Call List. If you haven’t done so already, by all means register your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry, maintained by the FTC. Once you have registered your telephone numbers at http://www.donotcall.gov/ or by calling 888-382-1222, most telemarketers are barred from calling you.

"Regret for wasted time is more wasted time."--Mason Cooley

2007-09-26T23:38:00.000-05:00

The above quote reminds me not to beat myself up for not updating my blog!!! The pic is to express and explain the delayed update! LIFE...

So many changes have taken place in my life lately. If I attempted to blog about it I risk this being a small paperback instead of a single entry!

Well with that said I am happy to be back. I am sitting home watching Martha and the special guest is Bill Clinton talking about his new book GIVING! The title alone EXCITES me! I haven't purchased the book yet but I plan on it. My reason for bringing that up..... I realized my "LIFE" is very rich in comparison to some of the people Mr. Clinton has had the joy of helping. And for that I am grateful!

I challenge you, when you are feeling down and out, to give someone the very thing you feel you are in need of (love, time, money, hugs, knowledge, someone to talk to, the list goes on....) Take notice of how you feel after giving away what you think you so desperately need. Maybe even jot it down in a journal. I can almost assure you the feeling you receive will bring you pure JOY!

If you have some extra time send me an email and I will share it with others. Glad to be back & stay tuned for updates! Smooches!

Let's Cook Up Somethin' Hot!!!

2007-08-07T19:37:00.000-05:00

Hands-On Cooking Class

“Mexican Green Chile Chicken Soft Tacos”
Limit 10- sign up NOW!

Come learn to make these wonderful Tacos that were featured in Author, Chef & Teacher Rick Bayless’ cookbook “Mexican Everyday”

Come out and make some new friends, learn some cooking techniques that will impress your friends, date or significant other!

This will be an interactive class and we will have lots of FUN!!!

If you are tired of cooking the same STUFF, if you love mexican food, or if you are interested in learning how to cook... This class is for YOU!

When: Thursday, August 23rd
Time: 6:30pm
Where: The Trianon Uptown Dallas, TX
Cost: Only $30 (includes your meal)

sally@sallymcmullin.com
Deadline to RSVP & pay Sunday, August 19th

"A Lunch of Love"

2007-08-05T22:23:00.000-05:00

Quite some time ago I had a friend whose Father passed away. She was going to be making the drive from Dallas, Texas to Jackson Mississippi with her daughter (approx 7 hours) for her Father's burial. I wanted to express to her that I was thinking about her during her time of loss and I wanted to be able to somehow ease her load. I decided that I would make lunch for her and her daughter's road trip.

She was sooo grateful and still mentions it to this day. Making others feel good and being able to somehow put a smile on their face is something that brings me true joy. I decided that I would store this idea in my stash as something I could do time and time again for others. And of course I would love to share with you what I did so you too can pack a "lunch of love" for someone you care about!

The sandwiches were purchased from Eatzi's. It's a good idea to always have lots of pretty ribbon on hand for occasions such as this. You can wrap the sandwiches in clear cellophane bags and tie them with the pretty colorful ribbon. Put the condiments in small round plastic containers and stacked those inside the cellophane bag with ribbon as well. I chose to do that so the bread would not get soggy. I made them chocolate chip cookies and prettied those up also. Finally, I added two of the coca cola classic bottles of coke and used a Fashion Newspaper (they both love shopping & fashion) to stuff the basket instead of tissue paper. You can purchase a basket from World Market, TJ Maxx, or Michael's since you are already there shopping for ribbon. You can use any newspaper to stuff the bottom of the basket and then cover it with the Fashion Newspaper or whatever filler you decide to use. Once that's complete place the sandwiches, cookies, condiments, beverages and napkins in the basket and make sure everything is secure. And no "Lunch of Love" basket is complete without a note of LOVE! The entire basket can be prepared the night before.

I hope you decide to create a "Lunch of Love" for someone special. What if you packed your significant other lunch for the day or lunch for your teenage daughter's birthday or even your housekeeper that's helping you out for the day? Whoever you decide to do it for, remember to personalize it and add something that is a touch of "them" (cosmo girl, GQ, New York Times).

Here's to joy, happiness and love! Spread it around and you'll get it back (TENFOLD)! mmmmm WAH!!!

Just Because It's BIG Doesn't Mean It's Good!

2007-07-26T20:58:00.000-05:00

Well I made it over to Freebirds to check out the hype. A Girlfriend gave me a coupon for a free burrito so I decided I would make it over there to give it a try. I walked in and all my choices were right in front of me. Chicken, Beef, Pork, Dark Meat, White Meat, Garlic, Guacamole, on and on. I had no problem with the choices. I loaded up.... chicken, guacamole, cheese, sour cream, beans, salsa and I am thinking yuuuummmy!

I walk to the table with my mouth totally watering. I am ready to tear the foil off and get my EAT ON! I take my first bite and...... drum roll.... let down! Sorry guys, I didn't like it. It was oooK but not the talk of the town! I think people see how BIG it is and that automatically means..."oh they have the BEST burritos"... when what they really should say is..."they have the BIGGEST burritos!"

So for those of you who wanna go ahead and give it a TRY and not take my word for it please hit me back with your comments. I simply loooove good food, especially Tex-Mex. So if you know of a great place that I should give a try please let me know. I would love to go check it out!

Don't get me wrong , I like BIG, but it has be good too. Otherwise it's a WASTE!!!

Matches Made In Heavenly Boxes!

2007-06-27T21:31:00.000-05:00

Okay these are so freakin CUTE!!! I can think of a gajillion uses! Hostess Gift (include 2 taper candles and tie with a matching bow), A Gift from Me to ME for lighting my favorite candle s, heck just to look pretty next to the fireplace!

So place your order and stock up now! Cute AND easy on the wallet ($6) Let's see.... I could use one in the guest bathroom, living room, kitchen... ah I can't stand the CUTE-ness! The adorable boxes simply make me SMILE!

2007-06-26T17:45:00.001-05:00

The Cutest Book!

I wanted to share with you a book that I simply ADORE! I refer to this book time and time again...... "The Art of Friendship!" It is such a fun read with practical ways to be a good friend and make new ones! And for those of you who know me, you know that's right up my alley!

They have launched a website. Stop by and check it out. You can purchase the book on Amazon. So take some time and check out the site today!

And hey... call an old friend you been meaning to call!

MmmmWah!

"Mascara With A Rubber Brush!"

2007-06-19T21:02:00.000-05:00

Well I rushed to the store to see if this was going to be IT!! THE mascara that I would be raving about. The one that would have people asking me...."Are those YOUR lashes?"

I arrived at the first Walgreens and they were sold out! So now I am really on the hunt because it must be good! I get to the second Walgreens and they have it....Maybellines NEW Define-A-Lash™ "blackest black". I gladly pay the 8 bucks for it and I get to the car, rip open the package and I am in loooove with the tube color. Cute and Bright Green.

I open it up and discover the brush bends... it's rubber! I put a little on to get a feel but the true test will come when I am not putting it on top of my current mascara. I finally get the chance to try it out and I LIKE it! The claim is that it is "klump free" and that was indeed my experience. No klumps. I did notice that I had to work a little more to get the length I am used to. I liked the flexibility of the brush.

The downside for me, I did not get the volume I like. Overall I think this is a keeper (at least this tube) and I will look forward to seeing the pretty bright green in my makeup bag! Yeah I'm a sucker for pretty packaging!

Live For The Day Not Just The Weekend!

2007-06-18T12:40:00.000-05:00

How many of you have already started the week thinking... "Ah my weekend was too short!" or "I can't wait until Friday!"? There are five WHOLE days you are rushing by because you are living for the weekend.

Now I am a fan of 8 hours of sleep per night so I am not suggesting to go out and party it up every night of the week. However, I am suggesting that you not put FUN happenings off for Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

So go ahead and have some friends over for an early "potluck" dinner on a Monday! Plan a lunch picnic with your Sweetie on Wednesday, visit your local museum on Thursday evening.

These "happenings" don't have to take up alot of time either. For instance, there are great places to pick up prepared foods the day before.

http://www.wholefoods.com/
http://www.eatzis.com/
http://www.elismanhattan.com/

So go ahead, TRY IT! Who knows you just might start looking forward to Tuesdays because that's the day you and all of your friends play Scattergories! Aaaah... I Love that game!