Guest post provided by Ryan Worthing

There is something truly captivating about a sport that eloquently fuses dance, gymnastics, and ice skating so perfectly together. Professional figure skating is a unique sport that is now seen virtually all over the world and can be divided into a variety of different categories. Women’s, men’s, pairs, and ice dance couples are all figure skaters that compete in a separate group. Skaters compete for a score that goes as high as 6 and they are judged based on a variety of different skill requirements. It is so beautiful to watch these athletes glide across the ice while demonstrating strength, coordination, balance, and poise. These professional ice skaters interact in a lovely way with the crowd and it brings a sense of relaxation and peace to the viewers.

I love to watch professional figure skating on cable tv. Ice skating is an exquisite sport that is beautiful to watch. These athletes should be commended on their talent and commitment to such a difficult sport. Viewers become captivated as they sink into the music and movements that the athletes dazzle them with throughout their performances. Oksana Baiul is my favorite ice skater; she has faced many hardships yet presses on and has won numerous medals throughout her athletic career. She is an inspiration to me and all ice skating fans around the globe.

Internet sucks... It's been slow since last night. Got dc the whole morning and I can't really do much. I'm glad M called WC and now it's back to normal. I can't wait to have my computer by Friday. M is @ work right now, so I can use his PC quick. It's been a busy week. One more month for my little guy's swimming lessons and he can finally start his drama class. I wanted him to take advantage of the summer youth programs, so he will have a fun summer. His swimming skills are way better than he first started. I think he's so grateful we enrolled him this year; All in all 32 sessions in 4 months. I can't really ask for more. He is very confident in the water now and soon he will master the strokes. Being comfortable in the water was really the main goal. Then, I don't have to worry too much. Got things planned for the weekend. I hope it's going to be a wonderful one. Other updates will soon follow. It was quite a break.

Guest post written by Betsey Jordan

While other New Jersey housewives seem desperate to insert themselves into the drama of “The Real Housewives New Jersey,” Dina is getting out for good – or so she says.

I’m kind of sad to see Dina and her cat Grandma Wrinkles go because she seemed like one of the more down-to-earth housewives, but I suspected this might happen as I noticed that she had a lot less screen time for the first few episodes of the second season. Also, her husband chose not to be included on the show and her daughter Lexi was newly absent.

But Dina’s older sister Caroline, and her husband and children, are still on the show which I think means that Dina is sure to show up on the show, I guess that her solo confessional-type commentary will just be absent. Besides her and Caroline’s husband also happen to be siblings.

But I’ll still be sure to keep up with Dina via her Twitter account with my Clearwire service. I’m looking forward to reading what she tweets about upcoming TV episodes and blogs about.

I turned 30 last Thursday, but the celebration isn't over yet. Hubby is going to take me out later today for a very special lunch date. Last Thursday's celebration was awesome. I was digging the breakfast meal we shared, gifts, and most of all thank you for the little surprises. I'm just really thankful for all the blessings you bestowed upon me God, my family who are always there in bad times and good times of course, to my husband for his support, and unconditional love, and to my son who lights up my life every single day. Thank you for everything and this celebration reminds me I'm not getting any younger hehe... But how does it really feel to be 30? Nothing seem different you know; It's just the age that's increasing, but inside I'm the same person [heart, mind and soul]. A lot can happen in a year — the earth travels all the way around the sun, the seasons complete their cycles, and countless new stars appear in the night sky. Imagine all the possibilities this year has in store for me. It may be the beginning of something BIG. I definitely had the happiest birthday. I can't ask for more.

A bird on our doorstep, The sun in the sky, Words that bring on laughter, A perfect reason why... In the every day of living, We forget one thing to say -- Is there one to single out on this very special day? The answer to this question Is easy 'cause...
It's my 30th Birthday!

I woke up with a terrible neck pain still. I tried to polish my breast stroke last Monday and this is what I got. I'm really enjoying my class. I love every minute of it and now I'm so determine to learn it the right way even though it drains all my energy afterwards. I tend to get really hungry hehe... that's what I noticed. Moving on, Jb's dream to own a skateboard is finally fulfilled. We decided to buy it for him. Since it's his first time to be rockin' this thing we told him to be really careful. I know he loves everything Spongebob, so he chose that famous design. Elbow pads, knee pads and helmet are a must, so a good $70 dollars on everything. The possibility of getting hurt is something we can't control, but we will just really have to watch him. He did great making it roll and so far so good. We took him to the lake yesterday, so he can practice; Plus it isn't very busy on weekdays. Aside from those two people running; Jb was the only one playing. The weather was wonderful too @ around 10ish; the sun just started to come out. Perfect day+out with my family and an ice cream cone on the way home. A quick shopping as a treat, you can't beat that. Another swimming session today and that would be my last this week. Off to have breakfast with my boy.

This guested by Will Dawson

Just last week I went with a group of friends to Busch stadium to watch the Cardinals play. I have always loved attending Major League Baseball games and although I am not a Cardinals fan, I love going to Busch Stadium. About three years ago, the Cardinals built a new baseball stadium in downtown St. Louis. It is one of the nicest and cleanest facilities to watch a game at. The stadium offers some of the best seating in all of baseball. Even the cheapest seats give fans a clear and unobstructed view to watch the game. I’ve set in all areas of the stadium and one of my favorite spots is the bleachers. The bleachers offer the type of atmosphere that should be expected when attending a major league baseball game.

I got a large group of friends together at my house and headed downtown after setting my home security alarm (I just got it through a really good adt wireless security system deal). The stadium is located in downtown St. Louis so we had a great opportunity to visit one of our favorite bars before heading in to watch the game. Paddy O’s bar offers a great place to hang out before and after all home games. Visiting this bar has become part of our tradition when going to Cardinals baseball games.

Just got back from the Academy Sports store. I've been wanting to go there to buy sports gear, so I could start my exercise routine. I'm already equipped with everything I need for walking and running. I ended up buying the Sketchers Shapes Up since the reviews are really good. I really like it so far and now I can forget the price. I did my first workout of the month. I love my shoes. Another thing that caught my eye was the women's athletic apparel. I can't get enough of the sale and so ended up spending $300 in the store; Cool stuff from Nike. My little guy wanted a skateboard and we bought it for him too. We've been up and about so early. I wanted to finish it all today since my birthday is coming up and I'll be busy tomorrow until Thursday. Got to buy b-day stuff, cake and a fondue set. Plus little guy has a swimming class later today. The rest will be done tomorrow. Off to edit some photos now.

This is a guest post by Krista Woolfolk

If you want to watch a hilarious program with your kids, then be sure to catch episodes of "Spongebob Squarepants." I watch this show all the time with my nephews on my Direct tv and enjoy it so much. The program is just so oddly quirky, that it will have you laughing up a storm!

The program makes it "cool" to be quirky or odd. I like that this show instills that kind of value into children. My two nephews are some of the quirkiest and funny kids I know, but they embrace this spirit because of this show. I would recommend this show for children and even adults of all ages. I think the creators of this show tried to make something that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The show truly cuts across age boundaries and appeals to people of all ages for its humor.

The show centers around the life of Spongebob Squarepants. As a kind and hard-working character, Spongebob is usually finding ways to help other characters on the show. His friend Patrick is a starfish in the ocean, and always needing the help of Spongebob. I like that this program teaches children how to help one another. I also like that it instills the idea of strong friendships into children. The show has really had a positive impact on my nephews, and I highly recommend it!

My little guy is so anxious to swim today, but the pool in the complex isn't open yet. They normally open @ 9am, but the last time we checked it's still closed. I want to practice since 4 more sessions we will be done. I want to get my breast stroke and freestyle perfect before the class ends. We probably won't be able to practice today. I'm patiently waiting for M too. I ran out of cotton and I need it ASAP. Today's plan... Ah, mall or lake? I need new photos plus I got stuff I want to buy. I am craving for something spicy, so maybe a Chinese take out later today? That sounds really wonderful. I can't remember the last time I had a chinese meal. I guess it's time to have some or maybe we will come up with something else interesting. I can't get enough of my flower photos, so I will post a few. Enjoy your weekend you'll. Off to check the books I have already started reading.

The plan was to go VS to buy new stuff for myself, but my little guy didn't like the idea. He said the store is too girly hahaha... He wanted to watch 'The Karate Kid' instead. I told him we can do it on weekend so dad can come with us, but he insisted to watch it yesterday. We drove to the mall @ 10:45am to pick up lunch. I don't dig the food inside the theater, so we had to eat before the movie starts. That way we will be comfortable sitting for the next 2 hours and 20 minutes. A little humor, intense fight, determination rolled into one. It was worth watching it and the little actor himself shines as well as Jackie. The anticipation is finally over and my little guy really loved the movie. I had fun watching it too. I enjoy taking my son wherever as long as he's having a blast. I had a fantastic time bonding with my boy.

I was watching a show one time which featured homes of the rich and famous. I'm just in awe of how enchanting some of their yards are and not to mention their garden arbors. From the interior, pool to the landscape; I had my jaw dropped the whole time. I'm seeing something unique and out of this world designs. A rocker's house has an entrance to the yard like an ancient kingdom with a garden full of trellises and wooden arbors. Every visitor they have must feel royal. One day I would want a garden that has a summery ocean feel to it. Aside from the amazing arbors I want to surround my garden with. I would definitely want this place to be warmed and welcoming; A place we could relax after work and entertain during weekends.

Didn't I just have two trips to the DPS office this week? After 7 years my DL will expire in six days. Since it's my first renewal, so I had to go to the office and do it there instead of renewing it online. I didn't know I had to go through vision test again and forgot my eyeglasses, so I failed. I returned the following morning and that was a breeze. Ah, it's still kind of hard to get use to it that I'm now wearing glasses and I'm far-sighted. I keep forgetting sometimes especially when I go to places I need it the most. I don't drive a lot lately, so I pretty much use it when I watch TV, read or when we go watch movies. At least, that's out of the way. I got my temporary card and I can still go places if I want to. In fact, I'm planning to go shopping later today. I gotta check JCP if they have more swimwear on sale. I mentioned I'm taking swimming lessons and I feel like getting at least two new pairs. Weather wise it looks like it's going to be on the 70s, so no problem later if we want an outdoor fun too. Have a great weekend!

I'm so happy with my son's progress this year; Even his teacher was impressed. Both M and I are also surprised because he really excelled in Math. Reading is strictly imposed and we suggest @ least 20 minutes before bedtime. My son agrees with that and believe me it isn't boring. He enjoys it a lot and he is the typical kid who always wants to do good. Another subject he is really good at is Math. In fact, we've already searched for Online Tutor who could help us. It's important that he is more than ready before school begins. After the Awards Day this year; The princical reminded parents to see Online Math Tutor if need be. If it's for my son's own good then I'm willing to do everything. I don't think parents need to spend hefty amount of money for private tutoring. I found one which meets my standard and who would have thought Free Online Tutoring is even available. The ease of having someone willing to dedicate their time with our kids is something I commend. Like what I said, this is easy in the pocket. You can't beat how convenient it is to working parents and kids who are willing to learn. You should go for it.

Off to my swimming class in 2 hours. It's my third day and we've covered quite a lot of techniques to keep me busy. My little guy and I also take time to practice every morning. Teacher said my son's kicks were 10 times better yesterday. Today we're planning something fun again. We will bravely endure the heat for a bit if we plan to take pictures later. Firstly, we will take JB to an indoor entertainment center for a wholesome day out with my family. He's been asking to take him there, so today that's going to happen. We do cherish the happy times we spend with our boy. I had to compromise a date with dad, so my little guy can come with us. Since school is out, so we have the whole 3 months to enjoy summer. We spent a good one and a half hours @ the waterpark with our friends yesterday. Kids loved it so much and I know it won't be the last. We definitely need more of it this time around. Oh, the summer heat...

Thanks for the guest post Maggie Keown

I am currently looking at online classes that I am required to take next semester for college using hughes net broadband internet. I took classes last semester that were online so I am felling confident that I will do well. Just like last semester, I will be using my hughes satellite internet. I do not know what I would have done last semester if I would not have had it.

My classes required a lot of research and with the fast speed, that I have it was easy for me to go through large volumes of pages in have the time it would have taken me on the dial up connection that I used to have when I lived with my parents. They just did not see the need of a faster internet considering that all they ever did was check email. Even that task seemed to talk all day on dial up.

Since I am majoring in Childhood Education, I had to take a class about children and the internet. This was a very informative class. It required a lot of internet research about the internet and it was just a good thing that I was able to search the fact I needed quickly and efficiently so that I could get my homework assignments turned in on time.

I've stumbled quite an impressive product earlier namely respironics oxygen concentrators. Interesting huh! On the other hand, I'm glad Internet is back. I can't go online since Friday night until Saturday. I was bored... bored... bored. Plus we didn't plan on driving somewhere, so I was stuck at home watching shows @ Food Network. I was surprised my little guy watched with me. He too wanted to play games online, but can't. Good thing he has a Nintendo, so he played Mario instead. I was about to plan on going to the mall and CC @ around 5:30pm and hubby said the blinking red button turned blue. You know what that means? Finally, our internet connection is back. I then rushed to the kitchen and prepared dinner. My little guy requested a baked Tilapia and white rice. I normally drizzle mine with Caesar Dressing, but he wanted this seasoning we got from the Asian store. Thickened Jell-O was also ready, so we had a share of that as well. Now I'm back online; I will be checking your updates and get back with you ASAP.

We're back from the pool. I let my little guy practice, so he will master the freetyle. The possibility of passing level 3 is so close. I just want to make sure he does the technique right and practice makes it perfect. We had lunch afterwards and now I'm just finishing up a few things online while little guy is watching his favorite show. Dad is resting as well. He had to work all night and catching some sleep for now. My Friday is looking good so far. The cleaning part is almost done. I did pretty much everything early in the morning. Laundry and major chores are already tackled. I still got to organize my son's mess. It's all school stuff the one he took home yesterday; From art work to all kinds of writing journals. In fact, I had a chuckle on a few of the sentences he wrote. I actually want to read more when I get a chance. First grade writing is so adorable. He was so excited to show it all to me. I'm surprised he remembered a few family events and wrote it down like a big boy he is. Let me wrap it up... Here's a collage I created using BigHugeLabs. Photos were taken last month while driving down to Ennis. A fun drive indeed!

Have you heard of good sam motorhome towing ? Anyway, I got an email from the NVC yesterday. They sent me the visa processing fee bill for dad. It's been already 8 months since the I-30 got approved. I'm required to pay it online for quick processing, so that's going to be another expense this month. I can't wait for this to be finally over and have papa start working over here. Then mama's petition will be his responsibility as soon as he gets here. At least he could help out a bit already. I hope things will work out for him. Getting ready to take my little guy for a quick stroll just around the complex. Off for a bit!

We don't really have special events to go to this month. Unless sister will decide she's going to get married. The guys at home definitely need tuxedos. I can still remember when I was working in the hospital 3 years ago. We had to wear tuxedo shirt and I hated it so much. It was so uncomfortable. Knowing the kind of job I had I would have preferred to wear something else. There's too much lifting involve and since the shirt is tucked in, so it's kind of hard to move around. I'm glad I left 6 months after. There's way too much drama in there. It's hard to get involve and so I had to stay away from people who are toxic.

I was just checking patio furniture and reading the reviews of the S&C2 at the same time. The viewers are really disappointed. I probably won't have to watch it then. I'm a fan of SJP but the rest, I don't really care much. The movie was a big let down? I don't need to know all the negatives. Summer has officially started here at home. I'm looking forward to watching the Karate Kid with boy since school is over. I think the movie will be released on the 11th? This would be a nice little treat for him for finishing first grade hehehe... Dad wants to take him somewhere today. Shhh... it's going to be a surprise. Too many movies and I can't keep up, but I'm definitely looking for something fun.

I'm really enjoying HGTVs Color Splash show and a lot more. If I don't have the Food Network on. I'm pretty much watching anything interior design related. I just find it so appealing and I love how these designers aren't so afraid to use colors and incorporate it to something you like. Least, I forget check out how they design furniture too. It isn't really hard to make the place warm and lively right? Just be creative in your way. Trying new things is really cool. I would want a makeover one day and follow some of these designers tips. Can you see yourself living in small space apartment and make it look roomy? Just by moving a few things and adding accents here and there. You will be surprised of the result. You can find a lot more ideas by visiting their site.

84°F Partly Cloudy, Humidity is 64%, Wind is SSW 3 mph, Visibility is 9.00, Pressure is 29.84 inHg. Later today is going to be really HOT... I'm not surprised because I've been living in Tx for almost 9 years and the summer heat is something we all dread. The waterparks are in demand and that's one thing we look forward to going. My little guy is quite excited about it. Now, I'm up to something yummy, sweet and delicious. Didn't I just saw a rich and creamy mudpie ice cream to go with it. That's a real weekend treat! Off to the pool.

I'm sure everyone of us is so hopeful that our economy will get better soon. I know it will eventually, but haven't other people struggled enough? Everytime I watched the news there's always tragic events happening and it's so sad when families are involve. You might end up asking; Do they have online life insurance. I hope they have because what's going to happen to those they left behind. The same thing I ask to myself, but I'm just taking it slowly and do the things we're suppose to. I know one person who's close to me and they're really struggling; Plus her husband drinks and that's not helping either. The questions is; What's going to happen next?. My friend better step it up and start saving for the good of your family. It's important to have something reserve. One day you will need it.

For years I've been very patient with this one store that I frequent to. It's really obvious that their card reader doesn't work properly. Who would want their cards get stuck in the middle of a transaction. The clerk has to literally manipulate the back part and pull the card. I saw it happened to others and to me as well. It takes the checking out really a mess and expect chaos especially @ noon time. I just noticed that they've already updated their retail POS systems. I understand economy isn't in good shape, but when you cut corners and can't fix it. Then, consumers won't really like that a lot. Business people put it as a priority making the consumers shopping experience quick and easy.

I could never bribe M to come with me and shop for new clothes. Shopping isn't really his thing. Most men are, so I'm not really surprised. I hate returning stuff, so knowing the right size and style is really important before buying. The last time I shopped for him was last Chistmas and I've gotten big and tall clothing. He doesn't like complicated prints, so I make sure to get something plain and simple or else he won't wear it. He's always the last person I can think of buying a whole new wardrobe for because as long as he still has something to put on; He won't even care care looking at what's on sale. He couldn't care less, but to us women it's always a joy to shop.

I'm slacking big time when it comes to exercising and motivation is nowhere to be found. One thing I need is a great walking/running shoes. I haven't even really looked for one. Someone really need to push me to go check the stores and buy it, so I can start my exercise routine. Our elliptical at home is finally going to be used. My friend and I are also taking swimming lessons. We covered a few strokes and I wasn't feeling the side stroke. I suck at kicking at first hahaha... My son is currently @ level 2 and once he gets his freestyle perfectly. He will officially move up to level 3 by July. If he was around he would probably laugh at me. I found it easier to do the front float, relax and the kick comes handy and I did my best. Honestly, my arms are hurting right now and at the back of my neck. It feels like I'm having a stiff neck. I can't wait for the next 7 sessions and see improvements.

I woke up early and did some editing, organizing my albums and making sure online backup is working before getting engross to mommy duties. Yay, school is out. We attended the Awards day last Tuesday. My little guy got an Outstanding award and teacher said he really is a wonderful student. I'm a proud mommy without a doubt. Jb made a comment of being so ready for second grade. I think he's going to do good. I will make sure he reads a lot this summer because that's very important. I'm thinking of a few summer classes for him to get busy to aside from swimming. I can see him excel in dance, so that's going to be my task this week; Look for dance schools nearby. He's been taking swimming lessons since April and he has done so well and soon enough he can manage to swim comfortably. That's always the main goal to be able to manage to float and not panic in case someone push him in the water. Way to go!