My Experience With Bullying in the 60’s and 70’s

Posted On: 09.19.2017 By: Tammy | No Comments

I thought so many things on July 27th, as I sat down to write this blog post…

Yes! I took a (brief) detour while writing it! Well…I had a lot of thoughts to process. 😉 Lol

First of all, what I have to say in this post is all genuine; as I have no reason at all to lie about any of it. All true to life. Believe me….I sure wish it wasn’t! (I’ll also, add, I don’t want any pity…Nuff said)!

The MOST important perspective of my complex, inner, ramblings this morning was that my son thrived as an adult (without) any mental damage from bullying. Thank The Good Lord! =) That was my greatest fear! He was bullied briefly on the school bus; however, my son didn’t have room for bullying in his young school days/throughout his life; and still doesn’t! =)

The main point for this post is to provide some experienced facts about myself just so you can know and understand me a little better (as a person just trying, STILL… to find my way in this UGLY world).

But first, let me take a trip down (memory lane)…from VERY EARLY in life. 🙁

Unfortunately, I DON’T remember my early days in school (as happy). There was a particular incident that took place that snowballed ……into what ???! 😮

As I analyze my thoughts to try and remember the occurrence that started it all; my mind goes back to what (should have been) a favorable learning experience and a happy occasion.

I was excited about dance class. I’m not quite sure what grade we were in. 1st or 2nd grade?? I also am not sure exactly (what kind of dance class) it was. Although, I do remember wearing leotards; black ones. At least, that’s what they were called back then. LOL

I bet you can’t guess what took place?? Hmm, well; maybe you can, I don’t know.

This (little girl) left a big puddle in the gym. UGH!! 😮

Please, let me explain…

I remember… (not too far) into the class, I realized I had to go to the restroom.

Ahh, well, alrighty…now you know. The cats out of the bag; or should I say BLADDER! 😮

lol

I tried very hard to let that teacher know of my predicament many, many times, with a wave and a little dance of my own. But did she listen? This woman wasn’t giving me any relief ANYTIME SOON!

NADA! NO! SHE DID NOT LET ME GO!

Hello!! Was she plotting my (unlucky) future?? lmao!

The next thing I remember was the warm, wet feeling trickling down my legs that made me look down at the ever increasing puddle on the floor. It was only then that I actually realized what I’d done.

I know, gross, but keeping it real!

Well, that dance teacher was very much in the wrong! Just getting that out there! 😮

After that ordeal was over, I recall the long walk to the restroom to change clothes. The teacher had another student…(I think) she was much older? Not sure. I’m 56; my memory seems to be fading! Lol —- walk me there. How’s that for a run-on sentence?

I’ll just briefly go over a couple more occasions that I’d like to forever forget.

1) Now, I don’t recall how the conversation started or even what it was truly about. I just remembered the long walk home.

The girl that seemed to be the head of the bullies said to me, “You’re nothing but a pile of s***!”

The following one has a little more guts to it.. lol

2) In math class, don’t remember the grade. However, that’s not what’s important. I remember bits and pieces of this…

During what (should have been a well-constructed classroom), most of my class mates were throwing spit balls, and other things (that I can’t remember) toward me. Maybe some laughing in the midst.

Now was it (really) the entire classroom? More than likely not. Although, it sure felt as much.

Let’s put it this way…it was definitely enough to cause a ruckus while strolling the halls of the school, for sure.

More Importantly…

The (substitute) teacher didn’t have anything to say; nor did she DO anything. She just gave me a smirky smile as I looked at her with, (please help) tattooed on my forehead. lol — I do remember the class was Mr. Greenwald’s. He was the funniest teacher I’ve ever known. He made the whole school laugh; and that was his mission…other than teaching math class, that is. lol – That in itself was an awesome memory! I did a quick search and found a photo of him. However, don’t feel at liberty to share due to copyright. 😉

3) Not to mention (and in general), being made fun of for not making all the hits, catches, reps; or whatever while in gym class and on the playground That’s the true reason why I don’t like to participate in sports…(other than power walking and aerobics) 😉 lol

The latter is so common; I know. However, it didn’t make it any easier! Furthermore, it all stacked up to how I’ve felt about (myself) for most of my life.

I dreadfully recall these memories of bullying as; humbling, ugly, disgraceful, abusive, slanderous, degrading, disrespectful, painful, hurtful, and quite life-changing.

I truly could go on and on; however, I won’t bore you with more. I think you get the picture! LOL

You know…way, way back in my mind (for many, many years), I would always question myself how I could let the world know how bullying truly affected me. Go into detail, like in this post. Did I want (or NEED) to go as far as actually naming names? Naah!! That minor detail is rather pointless.

I wrote this blog post as if I were THE ONLY person on the face of the earth that was mindlessly bullied. Well, let me fill you in on something….that’s exactly what it felt like. The pain was real, and it scarred me for life.

In hindsight, I’m somewhat grateful for having gone through it; (only due) to the fact that it helped mold me (somehow) into the person that I am. I also, realize this post may be pointless to a lot of people. I honestly needed to write it; if not for anything else but, for some sort of therapy. Aka; focus on internal daemons for clarity and peace.

Thank God for the wisdom from my years of living…that I truly understand the (real) reason behind children, (or adults), that feel the need to bully others.

I’ll just leave it at that…

Thank you for reading! =) <3

Category:about me, articles, back to school, bullying, children, memories, school, stress, wisdom

How to Make Sure Your Child Stays Safe and Has Fun While Away at Summer Camp

Posted On: 06.2.2017 By: Tammy | No Comments

For kids, summer camp is a great opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people, experience exciting new things, and, most importantly, have a lot of fun. But sending your child away for a few weeks comes with its own risks. Here are some tips for ensuring your child stays safe while away at summer camp.

Know how to spot a bad summer camp

This first step to making sure your child has a fun, safe time away at camp is to send them to a good camp. Not all summer camps are created equal, and you should know some of the red flags associated with sub-quality camps.

The first red flag is that the camp doesn’t seem to have much of a presence. There is nobody talking about the camp online and no parents willing to sing its praises. Good camps will be known as just that – good camps. A low profile camp isn’t necessarily a bad one, but it should give you pause. Another red flag involves the staff. Ask about turnover. Does the camp lose and hire camp counselors every single season? Are there no long-term employees at the camp? This could signal that the camp is run poorly.

Lastly, any camp that is not completely open to you, the parent, is likely hiding something. If you get any pushback about wanting to visit the camp for a complete tour before giving them your money, or the camp has a closed-door policy where you must schedule an appointment to visit, be very wary.

Prepare them to make the right choices


One of the biggest fears the parents have when it comes to sending their child away to spend time with peers outside their supervision is that their child will get involved in drugs and alcohol. The best thing you can do is to talk to your child in a frank, honest, and non-judgmental way so that they at least have your voice in their head urging them to make good choices if the temptation arises.

Even if you, to some degree, accept that kids will experiment (we were all kids once!), you have to set firm boundaries. Teach them about the dangers of even experimenting with drugs and alcohol.

“Talking about ‘experimentation’ tends to be a very slippery slope. Parents have one idea about what it means, and kids have another idea about what it means. And some kids who get the idea that experimentation is okay will rationalize any kind of drinking that they’re doing as experimentation,” notes ChildMind.org. With this in mind, it’s best to just put a hardline “no” on any sort of experimentation.

Involve them in the camp-decision process

These days, there are hundreds of summer camp options. Many of them specialize in certain fields, activities, or sports. Talk to your child. If they have a strong a specific interest in something, a specialty camp may be the best choice. If not, a general interest camp is likely the way to go. You certainly don’t want to force your child to go to a camp that doesn’t interest them in order to try to force it on them.

Ask them if they are comfortable with a sleepaway camp or if they’d rather come home at night. You can certainly encourage them to be brave and face any fears they may harbor – but certainly don’t force the issue. That’s a recipe for an awful camp experience.

Summer camp can be a wonderful learning experience for your child. If you do the research into camps and take the time to talk to your child about making good choices, you can be assured they will have a fun, safe experience.

Photo Credit: Pixabay.com

Category:child safety, children, Education, summer camp

Love and Celebrate Your Mom This Mother’s Day

Posted On: 05.12.2017 By: Tammy | No Comments

For Mom – Lost to Breast Cancer! <3

I came upon this today while enjoying reading all types of quotes and stories about Mother’s day. These 20 quotes are awesome. (Make sure you click and read below)!!

To those that still have their moms, please ALWAYS take the time out of your day to spend quality time and also,….tell her you love her!

Even if it means mending relationships!!! =)

My Mom

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Son and I

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lots of Quotes — (20)! To Celebrate Mom On Mother’s Day
By Terri Coles Read  It Here! —>  Huffington Post.ca

 

Happy Mother’s Day Everyone! =)

Category:children, family, grandmothers, joys, memories, mothersday

Sharing a Nice Find Today – Coping With the Death of Your Pet

Posted On: 03.22.2017 By: Tammy | No Comments

Anyone that knows me well knows how I adore animals. While growing up, I always remember having dogs. Three I can remember well, however, I think there were more. I also, remember having a tiny grey kitten.

My parents made me get rid of it only due to the fact that I didn’t know how to properly care for a cat. 🙁

 

 

After I married, I have had many cats. I’ve had four, and currently have a tuxedo cat.

He IS precious and always LOVES to be in my lap. He is the most loving cat that I’ve ever known or had.

We had to put down the cat we had previously, (Jesse) back in October of 2015. <3

My heart was broken in a million pieces. It’s so very sad to lose a pet that you’ve loved and had in your home for many years. For many people, pets are their children, just as their human children, and are “family members.”


Small children don’t understand why pets have to pass away, and are truly affected and -saddened beyond measure when they lose their pets, also known as their best friends, and childhood companions.

I opened my emails today and found a nice article about coping with a death of a pet. I thought I’d share it with you.

I also found a few quotes about animals below…

Please be kind to ALL animals. They have a heart, a soul, feelings, and much intellegence. Respect them and love them just like you would love and respect yourself, as well as your family and friends!

“Animals are such agreeable friends―they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms.” ― George Eliot

“Clearly, animals know more than we think, and think a great deal more than we know.” ― Irene M. Pepperberg

“Animals are the bridge between us and the beauty of all that is natural. They show us what’s missing in our lives, and how to love ourselves more completely and unconditionally. They connect us back to who we are, and to the purpose of why we’re here.” ― Trisha McCagh

“We need, in a special way, to work twice as hard to help people understand that the animals are fellow creatures, that we must protect them and love them as we love ourselves.”
― César Chávez

“Humanity’s true moral test, its fundamental test…consists of its attitude towards those who are at its mercy: animals.”
― Milan Kundera

“Unnecessary violence against animals is a heinous crime. Be a voice for those who do not have one.”
― Debasish Mridha

You can find the article Here

Enjoy! 😉

Category:children, family, loss, pets

Successful Savings: 5 Tips For Making Extra Income Online and Off

Posted On: 02.16.2017 By: Tammy | No Comments

Coming up with a little extra cash to save for a rainy day is not easy, but if you work hard, it can be possible. Here are five tips that will help you add a little extra cash to your bank account. The third option lets you make extra income online.

Get a New Job or Request a Raise

It’s never easy finding a new job, but if the job you’re currently in has hit a dead end, it may be time to move on. It’s always best to have room to grow and promote in your career, and sometimes when you hit that ceiling, you just have to call it quits and find a new job that has the future growth potential you need. But remember, don’t quit your current job until you’ve been offered a new position somewhere else, as that could make your financial problems worse. Another option is to ask your supervisor for a raise. Highlight tasks you’ve been excelling at lately, and mention the times you have taken on additional responsibilities and tasks.

Sell Some Unused Belongings

Selling some things you rarely use actually has two benefits – you get the extra cash in your bank account, and you also get rid of unnecessary clutter taking up your valuable living space. If you notice you have some items that are hardly ever used, consider listing them on Craigslist or eBay. Things like old furniture, used electronics, collectibles, anything and everything that someone else might consider to be of value. If you’re not sure if your belongings have any value, look them up online and see what the going rate is. You might be surprised how much someone might be willing to pay for what you consider to be junk.

Take on Freelance Work

There are a lot of freelance jobs that can be done in your free time. If you have computer skills, consider websites that offer freelance work for basic Excel work. Or become an Uber driver and make money in your spare time. Freelancing is a great way to have a flexible work schedule that allows you to work when you want and make extra income online.


Cut Back on Expenses

Making more money is not the only way to help out your monthly bottom line. Sometimes cutting back on your money wasted each month can be equivalent to getting a raise. Examine your expenses each month, and cut out what is unnecessary. Things like monthly premium movie channels you don’t watch, or monthly subscription fees for things you don’t use are great places to start. Consider doing more home repairs and car repairs on your own. Youtube is a great resource for how to fix anything and everything. Instead of taking your car in to a mechanic, go to the local U Pull & Pay and get your own car parts to do the work yourself.

Get a Part-Time Job

Sometimes the only way to make more money is to take on additional work. Consider applying for something part time that perhaps you can do evenings or maybe even weekends. Whether it’s tutoring for SAT test prep, or coaching the high school basketball team, find something that has a flexible work schedule that doesn’t require any attention during the times you’re scheduled to work at your current job.

Hard work and diligence always pays off, so no matter which avenue you choose to follow to make some extra money, if you stick to it, it’s sure to pay off in the long run.

Category:frugal living, make money online, work at home

Spring Cleaning Bug Bit Hard With Fabuloso And Motivation

Posted On: 02.13.2017 By: Tammy | No Comments

It’s never too early to start in with spring cleaning. =)

I’ve been in an (unusual for me) cleaning mode with a passion! I’ve gotten a good start with it too. Most times, I’ll be (all talk) with saying “I’m going to clean and organize my home this spring, or this year.”

Well, it’s NOT all talk this time around. I’m actually checking quite a few things off the (big to-do list). My plan is to finish all projects by the end of (this month), February. 🙂

I may not get each and every thing done by then, however, I’m making it my mission to do so! Just know; it will eventually ALL get done!

The cleaning bug bit me when I found a (new for me) cleaner and air freshener. Guess it gave me most motivation for cleaning.

Have you heard of Fabuloso?


I fell in love with it! The aroma of this cleaner is amazing. It’s also an excellent cleaner for a colossal of things. My list for you below:

Counters
Wood Floors
Windows and Mirrors
Cars/Trucks
Bathtubs and Toilets
Laundry
Appliances
Carpeting

It’s now a main staple in my home. I have a spray bottle under both my kitchen and bathroom. LOVE this stuff! <3 I use the Lavender scent. My home smells so much nicer and fresher due to Fabuloso. Plus, it gets it good and clean.

Below referrence and credited:

https://www.reference.com/home-garden/ingredients-fabuloso-contain-b2b456cc87bbfca4

Basically, Fabuloso ingredients contain water, sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate, and fragrance. The variety of scents also include added baking soda, pine oil extract and bleach alternative.

Anyway, I’m in rare form with the cleaning and organizing, trust me when I say (rare form)! lol

I’m currently cleaning and organizing my office, as well as cleaning out cabinets and drawers throughout the rest of my home. I’m feeling amazing as I get things done!

I created a video about it =)

Category:articles, cleaning tips, videos

Young Family? 5 Tips For Moving With A Large Family

Posted On: 12.5.2016 By: Tammy | No Comments

babywithdad Moving can be a stressful and strenuous process due to the enormity of the project that has to be completed in a short period of time. For those who have little kids in tow, the task can be even more challenging. To ensure that you can have a smooth move with small children in your care, there are a few important tips to practice.

 
 

Purchase New Games and Toys

Your kids can be occupied if you give them new games or toys to play with during the move. This will allow them to take an interest in crafts or puzzles that will make it easy to have them remain quiet as you load the boxes.


Hire a Moving Company

Instead of attempting to lift heavy items while chasing your kids around the home, opt for hiring a moving company like Wheaton World Wide Moving. The professionals can pack up your personal belongings for you before loading them up into the moving van to ensure that you get on the road as soon as possible.

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Get a Helping Hand

It’s important to a family member or friend to watch your child as you begin to move out of your home, according to mom.me. You can have them entertain your little one with toys in an empty room in the home or even play with chalk in the backyard. Having someone to supervise your kids will make it easier to keep them safe and out of the way. Grandparents may be willing to help out as well.

Pack While They’re Asleep

Many parents quickly learn that it can be close to impossible to pack the home up with kids running around. Make it a point to load up the items and seal the boxes when the children are sleeping during their naps to ensure they don’t make more of a mess of everything, according to washingtonpost.com.

Start Early

Having children in your home can make the most basic tasks take longer than expected. Start packing your home and getting ready for the move several months in advance to ensure that you can avoid stress while caring for your kids.

When you’re getting ready to relocate to a new property, it’s important to ensure that you can complete the task smoothly with little kids in tow. By staying organized and planning ahead, you can successfully move homes and avoid excess anxiety during the process for an easy transition.

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Category:children, family, guest bloggers, home environment, moving tips

Holiday Tips: How To Find The Best Presents For The Ones You Love

Posted On: 11.17.2016 By: Tammy | No Comments

cheyanneandme I can’t wait to see my grandkids on Christmas day…So excited! They are both at the right age for some fun on the holidays!!

 

A recent survey showed that the majority of Americans love shopping for others. The only hiccup that some experience while shopping is trying to find the right gift. This guide will help you choose the right present so that you do not experience awkward moments when you present your gift.

What’s the Deal With Gift-Giving?

Most experts believe that the reason some people love to give is because it gives them a psychological reward. People seem to have an emotional high when they get the opportunity to give, which could be one of the major reasons why Americans love to give gifts. However, you also want to make sure that you find the best possible gifts for the ones you love. So here are just a few ideas to help you find the best possible gift.

Personalize the Gift


You might be thinking of buying a gift that is sold by the thousands. This means that the gift is probably not too unique. One way to make sure that your gift is special is to personalize it. You can engrave a piece of jewelry or get your loved one a customized shirt from a place like Absolute Screen Printing or a similar place. That way you can make your gifts individualized and personal for everyone.

Make a List

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Follow old Saint Nick’s tip, and try to make a list. The list should include everything that the person you are buying the gift for is interested in. Connect a gift to the list of likes. Remember that you do not have to get every gift; just choose one that you feel works best.

Stalk a Little

Social media has given everyone a little more access, and you can use this access to your advantage. The idea is to stalk his or her social media pages for clues about what he or she may want. Some people have used the person’s laptop or smart device to see if there is a wish list on certain shopping applications.

Give Cash

Of course, there are times when buying a gift becomes impossible. At this point, the best thing that you can do is simply give cash. Now, this does not mean that you have to give someone cold cash. Perhaps, you can give a gift card. The best gift cards are from major credit card companies because your loved one can go anywhere. Be sure to make it fun for your loved one, too. Maybe you can give your loved one a treasure map to make finding the money fun.

Finding the best gift is never easy, but it is always worth it. There is definitely nothing better than seeing the face of the people you love light up with a thoughtful gift. That definitely makes all of the effort well worth it.

You can find practical, and reasonable gift ideas at my Avon eStore

Category:articles, gift ideas, guest bloggers, holidays

Beautiful Fall Colored Leaves, Hoodies, And a Sleep In Sunday

Posted On: 10.24.2016 By: Tammy | No Comments

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This grandma is looking forward to Halloween with her grandkids! Here it is October 24th. Where has this year gone to!!

Sis and I slept in until 10:20 AM (yesterday – Sunday) guess we needed the sleep! Lol

 

 

 

There hasn’t been frost on the pumpkins yet, however, it’s coming. This has been an exceptional year weather wise. lol I’m wondering how mild our winter is going to be?

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I’ve been staying with my sister while she recovers from a surgery. I love ️ making a difference in someone’s life. It does my heart good.

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I’ve become a (decaf) coffee drinker again…at least until my urologist tells me otherwise. I LOVE coffee ️!!! And gotta love Denny’s!


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I drink (2) bottles of water (before) drinking the coffee, and also, afterwards. I also make my coffee weak and put quite a bit of creamer in it. So far, my bladder hasn’t been affected.

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I’m enjoying the color change of the leaves and the (gradual) crisp breeze in the weather! I simply love the autumn season!

My weight loss challenge…well, let’s just say, I’ve taken a hiatus from this challenge. Both eating healthy and working out.

That’s going to change very soon!!!

I don’t remember the last time I had makeup on…probably the last Avon video I made. It’s been awhile.

At least, I’m making an attempt at keeping busy blog posting.

Happy Autumn and Halloween !

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Be safe this Halloween!

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Category:coffee, fall, Halloween, holidays, seasonal

5 Fun Summer Activities You Can Do Even In Winter

Posted On: 10.4.2016 By: Tammy | No Comments

summerinwinter Although summer is swiftly coming to a close and chillier days are upon us, you don’t have to put away all your warm weather gear just yet. Luckily, there are a variety of fun ways to incorporate sunnier activities into your winter regimen.

Here are some favorites:

Go Glamping

While summer may be the time for outdoor campfires, s’mores, and falling asleep to the sound of crickets, winter is prime ‘glamping’ time: camping in luxurious style. Set up a tent in the living room and pile it high with comfy pillows, string up twinkling lights in lieu of fireflies, and play some fun nighttime nature sounds on the stereo.


Have an Indoor Luau

Hawaii may be miles from your home and current climate, but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring the festivities indoors. Host a family (or neighborhood!) luau with Hawaiian music, snacks, and decorations. “Decorate with palm fronds and use grass skirting around the edges of tables,” writes Linda Donahue for Livestrong.com, “to go all out, add fake palm trees. For atmosphere, encourage your guests to come in Hawaiian shirts, sarongs and beach wear.”

FORTPIC

Hit The Swimming Pool

Indoor community pools generally stay open all year-round, so what better time to enjoy a beach day than on a snow day? Lay out brightly colored towels and blankets and bring suitable poolside snacks and toys to enjoy in between splashing around. You can even add some gorgeously fun flair with a mermaid Shimmer tail, and turn the pool into an instant tropical lagoon. This is definitely a great way to relive some of the joys of summer.

Head To The Kitchen

Barbecue, tacos, and burgers may seem like outdoor summer fare, but you can just easily fire up the proverbial grill indoors. Once a week plan a fun summer dinner with all your picnic favorites, with StyleAtHome adding: “Mix and match dishes in fun vibrant colors or with funky patterns like stripes and botanic prints.”

Cut A Rug

Head to the basement or family room, push the furniture aside, crank up the surf rock and hold a vintage-inspired indoor dance party, with all the #1 beach hits and appropriate styles to accompany. Serve up soda fountain classics like root beer floats and ice cream sundaes, with Madmen-style summer cocktails for the adults.

Winter is all about keeping the spirit of summer alive, and with a little creativity you can enjoy all your favorite activities long after summer vacation’s come to an end.

Category:advice for grandmothers, articles, children, communities, family, grandkids, guest bloggers, seasonal, summer