The Sunshine Is In

Project Macfrica Fundraiser Feb 18/12

2012-01-24T17:07:00.000-08:00

FUNdraiser happening @THEMUSEUM

This is my friend Matt Scobel and the story about how Project Macfrica began http://youtu.be/UUnI-79dZa0

If you're not convinced about how motivated Matt is, take a look at his #140confONT vid

Yes that is the video where I was pegged "Best Noise To Height Ratio" -Truer words have never been spoken.

That is why I am going to do my best to make some noise about the Project Macfrica Charity event happening Feb 18th at THEMUSEUM in Kitchener, Ont.

Matt has one more vid about his last trip to Kenya, but you'll have to head over to the EVENTBRITE page to see it.

While you're there make sure to grab a $10 ticket and join in on the fun Feb 18th
Want to help MAKE SOME NOISE??? Make sure to share the event on your facebook & tweet using the hashtag #pmnight

Free Facebook Timeline Cards from MOO Cards Demo

2012-01-13T18:32:00.000-08:00

Got MOO?

Now you can FOR FREE!!!!
MOO Cards are offering 50 free cards to Facebook Timeline users.
Don't know what I'm going on about? Just check about my post about Facebook Timeline

It's easy enough to get your Moo Cards, just follow these simple steps

I also did some screen shots before I sent off my order to MOO Cards & cards that arrived look exactly the same.

They came within two weeks of my order date. Infact last week I received an email from MOO cards that said

Hello,

It's Little MOO again. I thought you'd like to know, the following items
from your order are now in the mail:

1 x Facebook Cards (50)

You requested USPS Standard delivery, which means it should reach you
between 10 and 15 business days.

The email also contained a tracking number and other helpful info incase of some difficulty.

They signed off the email with

Thanks for ordering with MOO - we hope you love your order,

Thanks,
Little MOO, Print Robot

MOO
"We love to print"

So YES Moo Cards I do LOVE MY ORDER

Oh and if I haven't said it enought they were FREE

I hope this was helpful and make sure to let me know if you ordered your Free Facebook Timeline MOO Cards. I bet you'll love them too.

2011 According To Google

2011-12-31T08:47:00.000-08:00

A Year In Review

I really love seeing all the different Google doodles when occasions happen. Being that we are approaching the beginning of 2012 I was certain there would be something special on the Google today.
I found this pic and being so colourful I took an extra second to wait to see if it animate, but that extra second made see this line Watch and remember ......

So I did. I clicked the link and was given instant chills with all of these memories

Not only because I was reminded of these events, but it brought back memories of what I was doing when I first heard/saw about them. Next I started to think of what my own year would look like?

How I laughed & cried, and sometimes cried when I laughed because I was so happy.

I am so blessed.

Facebook Timeline for Non Techies Like Me

2011-12-30T19:24:00.000-08:00

Finding Timeline
So Facebook timeline was a headache for me for such a long time. I couldn't figure out why everyone was able to get it except me. I thought hmm what does Mark Zuckerburg have against Tiaras? How come I can't find this GET TIMELINE Button that everyone is telling me about?

Out with the OLD
I know tons of people will argue this choice, but I still use Internet Explorer. Yes I'm stubborn like that. I like being low tech, but apparently my browser was version 7 & they were now at version 9. I thought I'd give it an upgrade. After that I was also able to upgrade my Adobe Flash Player and BINGO I was able to access Facebook Timeline

With a couple of clicks and some upload of pics ...

... BINGO I had Timeline

With that means that I can finally see everyone else's timelines, and spent the better part of an evening going through what my facebook friends chose to do with theirs. I got to see pics taken from all over the world, family photos, works of art and business branding. I love how each one is so unique! I'm hoping that this will soon start on Facebook Pages, because I already know which one I'll put for the Those2Girls cover photo !

If you have a Facebook Timeline, what inspired the pics you chose for it?
Leave a comment with your Timeline theme, or if you like link it!

Ten Things To Do With Reusable Bags

2011-12-29T09:12:00.000-08:00

Because I attend a lot of events, I get a lot of bags. Back in the day (& by that I mean less than 5 years ago) everything (swag) came in plastic bags. It was easy enough for me to repurpose them as can liners for my garbage cans. Now that many businesses have switched over to reusable bags, I have way too many for my household needs. I know there's lots of crafty things to do with these bags, but really I just want the excess to be useful or out of my house. I will keep going to events, so I will keep collecting them. To manage this fabric bag cycle, here are some ways I repurpose my reuseable bags.

I give gifts in my bags. Not ones that have hand groceries in them, but more like flyers, coupons & stuff. They are clean & they go to a new home without me spending $ on wrapping paper or paper gift bags.
Lunch bags. Many people have large containers that don't fit well in a lot of the lunch bags. Put your lunch in, add a freezer pack, tie it up & it's that simple.
Extra carry-alls. If you have a desk at your workplace keep a couple in there. You never know when you or a co-worker could use one.
Magazine holders. If you have any with a wide bottom you can use it as a magazine rack of sorts
Gym Bags. Not that I go to the gym, but if I did I would just throw everything into a cloth bag that way when I would wash my sweaty yoga pants, I can wash the reusable bag too. Believe me I know what hockey bags smell like, I'm guessing gym bags would get the same way.
Food Bank donation collection. If I see something on sale like Pasta sauce for $1 I'll stock up, not only for myself but for the local food bank. When I get home I put the extras in a cloth bag that I've designated for food bank items. When I go to the next event that's collecting food bank items, I just grab the tote bag donate the whole thing.
Travel bags for your souvenirs. I put extra rolled up shopping bags in my suitcase and use them to pack up souvenirs that I've bought. Nothing is worse than realizing you have to stuff more items into your already full suitcase.
Seasonal decor. I put things like wreaths, window clings, noisemakers, basically anything that isn't breakable in reusable bags & pack them away with the holiday decorations
Car organizers. I have bag that I keep my jumper cables in so they don't sprawl all over the trunk.
Pay the reuseable bags forward. When I still have too many I take a few extras with me shopping. If I hear a cashier say "Do you need to buy bags?" and the customer replies that they do need to purchase some, I offer my extras.

Do you have extra reuseable bags that are in your way? What things have you done to give them a purpose?

Good Deeds = Great Feelings

2011-12-28T08:53:00.000-08:00

If you follow any of my posts you already know that I find joy in my role as a VolunTIARA, but I posed the question to Twitter and Facebook

What's 1 good deed you did this year?

Answers from twitter
@hedremp I was an angel to a little boy this Christmas - his mom requested some learning materials so I sent a whole box full!

@LHMaintenance client was in a difficult spot and needed work done. #gratis

@adomesticmomma Paid for a little boy's product at cash when he thought he had enough money for it. He felt so proud of himself.

@KidsGummyMum donated vitamins to Africa, to teens in Kitchener, donated $$ to Childrens Aid for bikes & kids schools for Healthy Snack Program

@HighstickHarry good deed pulled over when I saw a car in the ditch then called tow for her

@edrivefanpeg my friend was posting on kijiji a bed 4 sale, found a single mom looking for 1, and gave it to her :)

Answers from Facebook
Lisa S. An elderly lady in front of me in line at Walmart had her credit card declined. It looked like she was buying Christmas gifts for grandchildren. I paid for her. I can't tell u how good I've felt about that ever since.

Jenn W. donated to #50teens, the Goderich toy drive, MCC..... paid for a few coffees for others (anonymously), tried to just be a good person and help others. Hope that helps!

Maria W. started the Brampton chapter of Christmas for seniors ! Lots of fun, but you should see my apartments with all these Christmas gifts....lol

As you can see from all the exclamation points, LOLs & happy face icons all these wonderful people enjoyed themselves as well. It's one thing to bring to joy to others with your help, but the real gift is how great it makes you feel.

A few years back I watched a film called THE ULTIMATE GIFT.

The trailer for it doesn't do it justice. It's a movie basically about how it's never to late to change, and how by helping others it helps you as well. Although I was already volunteering the movie made me realize that giving good was also bringing me good (if that statement makes any sense to you, then you too should join the #TiaraARMY)

Looking back on 2011 I'm very proud of the many things I accomplished. Many of them were not goals that I set out to do at the beginning of the year. It's amazing how quickly things can change over the course of 12 months. Not only did I manage to do a few good deeds, good deeds came my way as well. I'm very thankful for that and for those who were there along the way. If you're reading this there's a good chance you fit into that prior sentence.

Yes I'm ready start 2012 with a bang, but I can't wait to see the wonderful surprises it will bring as well. Happy New Year everyone. Make sure to tell someone that they made you feel great today!

Time to Reveal

2011-12-22T19:16:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when we join forces with those in the #TiaraARMY!

DO YOU SEE HOW WONDERFUL Craig Silva aka @BigDaddyKreativ MADE US LOOK? The "Girl" on the left is Diane & the "Girl" on the right is me. You can tell because I'm talking with my hands!

I was so excited when I saw this logo he designed for us! I couldn't wait to share the news with all of you!
So if you're in need for a sparkley new logo to kick off your 2012 make sure to visit his Craig's website
http://bigdaddykreativ.com/
& while you're there you may want to check out his T-shirt shop! Who wouldn't want to unwrap one of these? Hmmm what's next Happy New Year? Happy Valentines Day?

If you have a big monitor just click the logo & I'm almost LIFE SIZE!

International Volunteer Day 2011

2011-12-05T05:21:00.000-08:00

Not many know this but today (Dec 5, 2011) marks the 10th Anniversary of International Volunteer Day . This initiative was started by the UN and today they are asking what did you do to volunteer in your country?
Although I cannot say I was able to help the UN in anyway, I can say I was able to help many of my friends & made many new friends in doing so.

Here's my list

Tweetstock (VolunTIARAS)
Boobfest Twitter Fairy (Breast Cancer Fundraiser)
Family FUNraiser for Zack's Dream Room
Sip For Hope (Grand River Cancer Centre Fundraiser)
Bottles For Beans
Creating the Stuff To Do With Your Kids In Kitchener Waterloo list weekly
Movember
Most like the biggest undertaking I did all year was #140confONT

& in addition I attend lots of fundraisers & events & am the first to say, if you need anything put me to work! I also try my best to get the word out about other great events happening.
Why do I do this? BECAUSE I LOVE TO!!!!

@JuliaRosien: Love what @those2girls said about volunteering - what your give
to the world comes back when you give from the heart #SCCTO

That's what I stood up & said at a conference with 200 women in attendance.
I meant every word of it.

Last month Erica Ehm actually called me out on my passion for helping at #Tweetstock6 check out the 38 min mark below

(note to self for 2012 resolve to take a compliment without getting embarrased-Thankyou Erica!)

So it seemed natural to create one more event before the end of 2011.
This Sunday, Dec 11, 2011 is the #ToydriveTweetup/Meetup
I want to go into this holiday season on a positive note & I hope you will as well. I hope you'll join me on Sunday & bring along a friend or 3!!!!!!!!! :)

I'd love to see your list of volunteering for 2011 make sure to either leave a comment or link your post here

Movember is going to be a BALL

2011-11-23T12:24:00.000-08:00

Where did the month of Movember go? Truthfully I guess I can see it on the faces of the Mo Bro participants. What started out as some clean shaven fellas, has become a group of 70's cops, or the members of the Village People.

My year two Movember experience has been very different than Movember 2010. Last year I had to explain what Movember is. This year was more about encouraging the participants to get prostate exams and encourage a healthy lifestyle.

This year Movember went to 2 new venues, MeFest & Tweetstock. Both spots encouraged many to sign up and become CITZENS OF MOVEMBER. Infact our STACHE TO THE FUTURE group extended from Guelph to Oakville (hitting all points in between, Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Brantford & more). I was even able to get my boss in on the Mo Growing efforts of the local region!

Being that the END OF MOVEMBER is just a week away, we need to start some celebrating! Next Thursday Dec 1, 2011 Kitchener Waterloo is holding their first MOVEMBER BALL.
There will be fun & games to be had, all with a MOUSTACHE theme!
Your ticket price includes admission, hot hors d'oeuvres, dancing & entertainment, as well as the chance at some free drink tickets.

Make sure to bring some extra cash to ensure you can participate in the raffles & draws and who knows perhaps you'll be crowned Mr/Miss Movember!

WAIT........ I've got just one more surprise.
I have a discount code for YOU! Just head to http://guestlistapp.com/events/77493
and enter the CODE those2girls then watch the magic happen (& by magic I mean you'll save 20% on your purchase)

So go get your tickets before they are gone & look forward to seeing you next week!

Movember Year Two MO-tivation

2011-11-02T03:40:00.000-07:00

Today is Day 2 of Year 2 of my Movember participation. Everyone has different reasons for participaiting in Movember. Some are survivors, some are supporters, some are remembering others that have passed away & many are wanting to partake in the fun & festivities.
The real reason behind Movember KW (_/\_) is to raise awareness & motivate prostate exams.

Here's Rick Mercer explaining the importance of the exam

I have a Son, a Dad, a Brother & so many guy Friends & I want them to be healthy for a very long time.
That's my Mo-tivation

Are you participating in MOVEMBER?
Then write a post about your MO-tivation & link it here

Speed Networking For Women In Kitchener Waterloo

2011-10-29T16:22:00.000-07:00

Find You Fuchsia

As you know if there is an event happening, I want to be involved.
If there is a networking element you can be sure I am involved :)
If there is a networking event revolved around the colour Fuchsia, then you know it's a perfect fit!

The Fuchsia Factory is a fun speed networking event for women & it's hit Kitchener Waterloo full force!
Our first event was held at Gibsons Sound & Vision & hosted by the lovely & talented Annie Tran.

It involved business cards, a tambourine & of course a TIARA

But don't think it was just fluffy fun, these ladies got right down to business!

They made connections quickly in an enviroment made for engaging women. The pace was quick, informal & fun. What else would you want from a Speed Networking event?
Well maybe these

We capped the night off with CUPCAKES (Thanks @bourbonbaker) & Convos!

We all were excited by the new connections we made & ideas of how to expand our networks.

But don't worry fellas, we want to see you at our next event!

Building on the success of the first #FuchsiaKW we will be hosting CO-ED events as well. With a mix of both Ladies only & Co-Ed Fuchsia Factory events, gals you can decide where your comfort level is!

Want to know more about The Fuchsia Factory & other great events in the area? We list all events on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Those2Girls6DegreesOfUs &

Twitter http://twitter.com/those2girls

SIDE NOTE - many of the ladies wanted to know about twitter, so here's the post

My #GGBliss Factor or the Newbie Girl's Journal of #BlissdomCanada

2011-10-19T21:29:00.000-07:00

Where do I begin?
I can write a full post about one day event, how am I ever going to create a post about an event that spanned close to 4 days?

I guess I'll start at the beginning.....

Blissdom Canada
A conference of EPIC proportions geared for women involved in blogging. (I tried looking it up in Wikipedia for the actual definition of the conference & can't find anything about it, so for now we'll just go with mine ok?)

This was to be it's return to Canada after the success of last year (which I missed). I had heard so much about it that I knew that I need to be at the 2011 event.

Then it happened....

Tickets went on sale on a day I was out for a lunch meeting = sad face.
ENTER GoGirlfriend.com
They were holding a contest & I entered & WON!

& later found out that the original ticket owner was someone I knew & she got another ticket so we'd both be there!

Being that I was a newbie this year I called in some experts to make sure I got to experience it to the best of my abilities!
From that page I found a carpool in a vehicle sponsored by GM Canada!

Flash forward to event day....
As we arrived we noticed Blissdom vehicles ready to whisk us away to CBC. We were treated to a Red Carpet welcome & a whole lot of awesome!
Let me first start by saying I waited until FIVE people asked me where the tiara was before I propped it on my head. Soon after followed by many others saying "oh now I recognize you" -I giggle every time I hear that!

I met John who made me travel back in time. I got to climb on to Mr. Dressup's Tree & peek my head through the Friendly Giant's Castle Window.

I didn't get the opportunity to meet Steven & Chris because I was very busy chatting with all the fabulous people there.
BUT I did get to meet the FAB Mama Yama & she joined the #TiaraARMY (really all you have to do to get in is have a pic in a tiara)

From there we met another Lisa who said she'd make arrangements for another CBC return (but I'll save that for another post).

When I ran into Julia I may have consumed my limit of delicious beverages, but I did tell her..... I believe this is what heaven is like. Beautiful white curtains, lots of food & drink & surrounded by wonderful people.
I told her I'd write that in my post & so I did.

After the party I met up with some friends, had a bite to eat at a restaurant that I will not name (= not great) followed by a bit of aimless wandering when I was told to GO LEFT (certain readers will definitely giggle at that).

Now that the pre-party was over, it was time to get ready for the actual conference. There were so many panels to choose from so I went with my gut & chose the ones that DIDN'T have anything to do with writing. It's not really my thing. I don't get paid for my blogging (unless you count the one I created at work) so I figured I'm not a professional writer. Plus I knew many who would be attending those so I figured I could get info from them. My presence at Blissdom Canada was more social based, along with learning about topics that peaked my interest.
Conference DAY 1
After opening introductions of the Blissdom Team, @herbadmother gave a fantastic keynote that I'm sure could win you a scrabble game with.

We started off by breaking off into tribes. Being the newbie I am, I had no idea what that meant. I learned that it meant round table discussions about topics. So my first one lead by @capitalmom & it was for newcomers. I quickly said I picked this one being a newcomer to this conference (not a newcomer to blogging or attending events). For my second tribe I picked Don't Niche Me In hosted by @bonstewart because I am so random with all my activities.

My first session
Working with Brands & PR. I don't do either of those, so why not learn about them?
It was an informative panel & I really liked that when the panel didn't agree with each other they explained why & never created an tension (I don't do well with arguing & drama). I learned a lot. I'm not sure if that is an avenue I want to pursue, but if I do I feel I'm prepared.

BREAK which included me getting a massage, a manicure, a blissdom necklace & a pic of me on a Corn Flakes box (yes I love all things crazy fun & unpredictable)

My second session.
Social Good
Something I preach all the time. Want to know why? Just watch this (thanks @zchamu)

Needless to say I came out with red swollen eyes & may have killed a tree with the amount of tissues I used, but felt great to be in a room with others who also felt this was an important topic.

Next I found my way to some of the sponsor tables. That's where I created a Young Driver's video that can be found on their blog

After that there was a discussion about being Canadian-ish (lots to do with Canadian bloggers living in USA & keeping a Canadian perspective).

THEN IT WAS TIME TO PARRRRRR-TAY
Hello #mabelbliss hosted Mabel's Labels.

Let's just say I felt very spoiled!
What's better than being spoiled? Being spoiled & having your BFF come join the party!
Two Tiaras are always better than One

After that we grabbed a dinner (or not really) at the restaurant that shall not be named. Followed by some socializing with new pals.
Conference DAY 2
(also Tweetstock Tshirt day)
First session Viral Topic
The day started out with smiles & laughter because of this (thanks @thatericalper)

But there were some tears too (happy tears are always the best). The panel talked about all their experiences brought them to "viral status" very different ways. It was all about emotional connections.

BREAK -we ended up finding what I refer to as Adam Squared (the two Adams of @atomicspark) we created a little shout out to our friends at Tweetstock (since they appeared our vid which was in my winning post that got me there in the 1st place). We also got to see the promo vid that they made with Kitestring. You know you have arrived when a Muppet gives you a shout out!

Second Session Personal Branding

Which could also be called the funniest panel I've ever had the opportunity to hear. The were honest & hilarious. There were tears too, inspirational ones. The ones that make you appreciate things.
I also took away some great advice from Dee. Your twitter bio is free make the most of it. So I did.

Third Session Transmedia
I picked this one because I didn't know what it meant. It was more for those looking to run a business, but I had some great takeaways. Not a $20 takeaway that was offered up to anyone in the room that wanted to run up & grab it. A takeaway from Laura who told me I was right not to just take anything that was presented in front of me. That was worth more than $20 any day.

BREAK - somehow I ended up in para fin wax with mitts on, then learning salsa, followed by a mini workout session (so you know I loved all of it)

Final Session
Old vs New Media a panel about ways people find news & how different medias influence each other.

What's that time for another PARRRRR-TAY!
& a Costume Karaoke party at that!

Somehow both Diane & I ended up in "WHO WORE IT BETTER?" pics (but the fun & friendly kind, not the rude & judgey kind).

& just when you think the party can't get any more amazing.....

@JordanKnight shows up!

...... & he dances with MEEEEEEEEEEEE

On the days following I find out I'm on the websites for CBC, Entertainment Weekly & ET Canada
This is just my quick recap. I have stories about the wonderful people I saw & chatted with, how much fun I had, & how much I learned.
BUT what I will be known best for is being the girl who danced with Jordan Knight while wearing a tiara & dressed as Supergirl.

What did you takeaway from the conference? Leave a comment & let me know. Have a whole bunch to say? Then write a post & add it to my Blissdom LINKS
To see all my pics head over to my facebook

I have so many people to thank that made this experience happen for me. I appreciate the kindness that was bestowed upon me & hope I can make all I learned useful for you as well.

#IAmSoBlessed

Do you have a #BlissdomCanada post? Share it here

2011-10-18T05:07:00.003-07:00

Make the Most of MeFest

2011-09-26T10:14:00.000-07:00

Tips To Make MeFest Memorable

Bring a reusable shopping bag! Much more enviro-friendly, plus stronger to hold all your freebies!
Take a look at who's on your Holiday Shopping list! I bet your can find something for everyone on your list
Address labels are handy to have to fill out draw prize ballots
Make sure you're camera/smart phone has fresh batteries/fully charged for all the fun photos you'll capture
Clear out your cupboards! Food Bank donations will save you $2 on admission
Tell a friend to meet you there! We're all about making new friends & reconnecting with pals at the event
Bring your positivity! You'll be contributing to the great energy in the room
Round up the family! We have something for everyone
Not sure about all the stairs? We have an elevator that enters right into our event area!
Build your connections! We always love hearing all the great connections created at MeFest
Stay dry & comfortable! Even when the weather does not cooperate we don't worry, we're an INDOOR event
Look for the TIARAS!!! We want to meet you!

For more info on MeFest check out our event page
https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=220393731318776
& watch the video below

#140confONT Speaker vids

2011-09-24T06:46:00.000-07:00

I'll do my best to keep them in the order that they appeard.
Each video is about 10 mins, so although you might not be able to watch this all at once, remember this happened all in one day, in one room, filled with passionate, inquisitive & intellegent people. Although the energy of that day can not be re-created, it can be re-lived.

Warning it goes from Pole Dancing Fitness Beginning to A Comedy Skit (That I'm betting will soon by Viral) Ending. It's about Business & it's about Charity. It's about celebrating the Seasons of Life & the Challenge of moving forward after a Death. Be prepared to be inspired, rejuvenated, emotional and full of joy and laughter.

The above one w/Craig also included Jeanette Joy

So now that you've made it through the list, what has changed in you? Did it spark something? Will you do something differently? Are you motivated in a new way?

What Happened @ #140confONT

2011-09-21T07:15:00.000-07:00

SO MUCH HAPPENED!!!!

I can't even begin. I just keep saying OVERwhelmed is an UNDERstatment!
I know eventually I'll get it all down, but I keep being more & more inspired by reading all the comments & posts about it.
We want the Spirit of the #140 Characters Conference to continue on. So just like the summer, we'll be organizing tweetups for it!
In the meantime I want to tell you about all the awesome stuff I've been reading, but I can't keep track of it all, so I'm asking for your HELP!
If you have a Post (feel free to link more than one), a Picture or even a Tweet that lets people know about your personal #140confONT experience please link it below.

#140confONT The Power of Now AND THEN

2011-09-16T19:04:00.000-07:00

I'm a waterfall, I can't stop crying lately. I don't mean that I'm suddenly always sad, it's the exact opposite. I'm constantly overwhelmed. I'd like to say I don't know when I became this over-emotional person, but I've always been her. She's just been tucked away for a few years. I refer to them as the ICE QUEEN era (a nickname I was given). When did that era end? A few months ago when Jeff Pulver said "I believe you can do this"

Fast Forward to Sept 15th 2011

Here I am standing in the Tannery listening to everyone speak about the Power of Now, but for me it's bringing me memories of the recent past.

Now this didn't happen the whole day, just certain things made me realize how quickly your new acquaintances can become some of the most important people in your life.

Here's a glimspse of what was going on in my head yesterday (read on if you dare).

On walks Julia, she's dressed in big black hat, over coat & sparkly shoes to match. It makes me instantly think of her purple cowboy hat, sundress & cowboy boots telling the world about the plan to bring the 140 Characters Conference to Canada.

Next I see Jeff take the stage. I'm suddenly I think of that day in Burlington when he told me we weren't thinking Big enough. We weren't just a Local #140conf we were the VERY FIRST CANADIAN #140conf.

I see Kevin coming down the middle of the audience & I find myself wondering if he wants Diane & I to jump in as his groupies, like we did in Tweetstock.

Next I hear Dee talking about her new house, which makes me think how different Boobfest will be next time around.

Then Jodi comes on.
I guess you can imagine what happened then. Sobbing Lisa in the Green Room.
In walks Ben he immediately sees I am in need of a hug. I start going on about how much it's killing me to know that she was homeless, & how if I was in that group of friends then, I wouldn't have abandoned her like the others did. While stammering this out I realize Ben has now been exposed to other bouts of my watery eyes. The night our group 1st met Jeff, the Wine & Cheese at Gibson's & now this. Remembering that didn't help the cause of getting myself to stop blubbering.

After that I'm not sure what order it all happened in as I buzzed around the building.

So now I'm back in the moment & on comes Neil with his Poster Boy T-shirt. I'm back in "oh this is Fun" mode except that I'm still thinking of the past. How the billboard he became known for has been torn down (as I was informed that morning). How this building we were in wasn't really anything for decades. Wow things really do change.

On comes Craig. I see he's nervous. I'm thinking he's going to blame me. I'm wondering what he's thinking right now. I can see something's wrong. I want to rush out of the green room, jump on the stage & hold his hand & say what if we just talk. We're pals. We'll just pretend the others aren't around.
There's Tricia to the rescue. She did something magical in those few seconds. He's back on track, telling the story I knew he had to tell.
No one tells it like Big Daddy does! I knew he was meant for that stage.

Hey it's Scott Stratten! Phew this is going to be great!. Scott always ensures fun is had by all, but then I start thinking about the first day I met Scott was also the first day I met So Many Of The People That Are In This Building With Me Today

Okay it's lunch-Just Breathe

After lunch Matt is acting like he's kind of nervous & he needs me to be in the room while he's speaking. Off I go to be their for him to have a friendly face in the audience. Wait a minute he's cool as a cucumber & he's not even looking my way. Then it comes. What may have been the most accurate description of me ever "probably the best height to noise ratio of anyone on the planet"
So funny! Except now he's got me thinking about how we met.

Next comes Taylor.
He's on the stage telling the story of how his life changed so quickly. Dear Internet, you've changed my life.
I hear that!
Then I start thinking about when I was convincing him to apply to speak (convincing might be more like harrassing, but that's not here nor there). He spent his Birthday with us launching our #140 idea & ended up in a huddle of Moms telling him how much his blog means to people & that he better apply to speak!
(you might want to go back to Matt's noise to height ratio & I'm sure you'll get the picture).
Then I think about how much has happened for him since then & how he could already be in California, but stayed to speak for the 140 (sniff sniff).

This is the big one. I warned everyone I would be mess during this.
Heather is telling her story of Zack's dream.
You would have to have a heart of stone to not have that affect you.
While Heather is saying that she was tweeting about Zack walking, I'm thinking about our 1st real convo we had the day she tweeted that. Then I'm recalling Jeff telling me that 140 needs to have stories of love & I told him this one. I knew it would touch everyone.
It did.
Heather received a standing ovation. I don't know if I know anyone else as strong & brave as her.
Jeff walks by & say "yup that was a good story"

I walk back to the green room & see the Kitestring gang & try to act like my eyes are not red & swollen, but it doesn't work. Thankfully they are all so nice & made me laugh the rest of the day! All the way to their finale act!

Again the blur starts. We rush to the after party at McCabe's & see so many people that I admire so much. All I can say is "did you enjoy it?" & "thank-you"
Somehow we leave there end up in the sketchiest bar I've ever been to KW, but we're having a fantastic time!
Chris says to me, how do you feel now that it's done. I told him I didn't want the day to end.

I'm sorry I didn't do the gazillion tags that everyone does deserve in the post, but my eyes are really sore.

Now this won't be my only post about the 140. I definately have to thank all my fellow organizers, speakers, sponsors & volunteers, but that's for another day.
When I can think about what everyone did to pull together for the event.
Oh no, pass the tissue.

Most Are Remembering Sept 11th but why I'll remember Sept 10th

2011-09-10T18:12:00.000-07:00

I was married Sept 11th 1993 (that status has since changed). We chose that date because Sept was a great time to travel. We always went away for our anniversary in the years following.

10 years ago we flew into St. John's NFLD on Sept 10th and stayed with (my then) husband's family. After a long flight with a two year old we headed to bed early (remember NFLD time is ahead of Ontario).

We we awoke the next day there were already reports of the 1st tower being hit by a plane. At that point most suspected it was some sort of plane malfunction. I was watching the updates about it & as they went live to the spot to show the damage. As they were showing a live spot of the smoke coming from the first tower the second tower was hit.

I froze

I couldn't believe it.

and then I freaked. I went running through the house tellling everyone what just happened.

That's when our vacation became so different. No longer a holiday, no longer celebrating our anniversary,but a place of worry far away from home.

You see the planes were diverted from airspace to Newfoundland.

All the phone lines were jammed. If you picked up a phone there was no dial tone just dead air.

We were to go visit the St. John's Arena as the Maple Leafs were to hold a practice there in preseason. That's when learned that the arena was now being used as a shelter for those who were stranded.

I mean stranded!

Then it hit me. What if we had flown in one day later. Where would we be? We couldn't land in St John's because their airport was full.
It it hit me like a ton of bricks. What if I had to stay in an arena with a toddler. What would have happened? All the crazy things that run through your mind.

Thankfully the people of St. John's opened up their homes to the people who had been on the diverted planes. Everywhere we went people were asking us if we had a place to stay (because we didn't have an East Coast accent). It was overwhelming the kindness that I saw.

Then we learned we too were stranded on the island.

A monsoon hit the area when we were there. With the planes' wings hitting each other the City of St. John's annouced that no planes would be leaving until all the USA diverted planes leave.

Thankfully I'm a prepared Mom & brought an extra medication that my son requires daily.

Every morning for days I had to call into the airport, be put on hold for hours to figure out if we could be on a standby list.

I can't even remember how many extra days we were there. Most of what took place during that time is a blur.
Thankfully we were staying with family.

So while everyone else remembers Sept 11th I'm always thankfull that we had flown on Sept 10

Why MeFest Means So Much To Me

2011-09-04T09:43:00.000-07:00

This October we are hosting our 7th MeFest.
Seven different times we will have created something special for the community we love so much.

We've had many challenges along the way.

Questioning of our marketing, copy cat versions of our shows, and the use of our pics to promote a totally separate event that we are not affiliated with at all. Yes all of these have happened.

But guess what?

It won't stop us. The accomplishments out weigh the challenges every time.

We choose how we run our event. We don't listen to the critics and we steer clear of those who can't see why we would want to invest so much of our time into a KW project.

Instead we focus on the fun that the day brings. We create an event we are proud of each time. We fill our hearts with the positive vibes inside our venue. That's what sets us apart.

We create something we love.

ShesConnected #SCCTO 2011 & Why I'm Excited

2011-08-20T09:47:00.000-07:00

This week I was happy to hear that @Those2Girls have been selected as part of a group of the Most Digitally Connected Women in Canada to take part in ShesConnected Conference #SCCTO for the 2nd time!!!

Some people are happy and some are not. Some are calling it a popularity contest and others are saying its only for those that are willing to push products.

I don't believe any of that.

If anything, I'm dorkiest gal in the room, & I'm okay with that. As for pushing things, if I like something about it I tell people about it because I want my friends to know about good stuff too! No one pays me to do that (even though I've been asked if I'm on @Trevor_Cherewka 's payroll with all my Tweetstock tweets!).

Popularity & Appreciative are two different things. Once I saw that they were preparing for the next conference I was happy to interact with them & tell people about it. I know when I arrange events I really APPRECIATE those who help me get the word out and try to help them with their endevoures as well.

As for the Speakers, last year and my favorite speaker was @SidneyEve. She was well prepared, entertaining and knew the audience she was speaking to. I don't think many of the Brands at the 1st one knew what to expect, and I expressed my concern about it for this Conference.

I had a very public conversation on twitter asking if the Brands this time really want to hear what we have to say? I told them it was frustrating that some Brands asked for my opinion and said they would love to find out more and never implemented or followed up with me (even though they gave me business cards & I did email them).
I get upset when someone picks my brain for ideas & then does nothing with those ideas. When I give someone my time I expect them to appreciate it.
I was assured that the Brands taking part in this year's #SCCTO are Brands that are wanting to connect with the attendees, and that great people are involved in organizing it.

Now THE REAL REASON I'm excited.....

I get to meet women from across Canada!!!!

Last year I met so many wonderful people that I get to chat with online. I remember meeting Deb Lowther . She was still fairly new to twitter and I loved her tweets! She was there as attendee as well. Since that meeting we became fast friends and I have told so many how AWESOME her company is! Why, because she's wonderful and I want to support her. I have so many stories of 1st FACE TO FACE meetings that day. That's what's important to me THE FRIENDSHIP

#140confONT Tweetups

2011-07-18T17:17:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows I'm very excited to be on the team bringing Jeff Pulver's 140 Characters Conference to CANADA!

Sept 15th can't come quick enough for me, so we're celebrating all the way up to the Conference!

Our 1st #140confONT included our ticket launch & our SPOKESMODEL Julia letting everyone know about our BIG plan to have the VERY FIRST CANADIAN 140 Characters Conference in Waterloo Region.

Next we headed to Brantford to announce our FIRST FIVE confirmed speakers

Well we're not finished yet!

Come find us

Cambridge http://guestlistapp.com/events/63687 Aug 4th
London http://guestlistapp.com/events/64623 Aug 18th
Burlington http://guestlistapp.com/events/64632 Aug 25th
Ottawa http://guestlistapp.com/events/64641 Sept 2nd
Kitchener http://guestlistapp.com/events/64371 Sept 9th

Then we're on to the BIG DAY http://guestlistapp.com/events/59826 Sept 15 at the Tannery in Kitchener Ontario

There's Better Ways To Build Buzz

2011-07-15T15:07:00.000-07:00

I just arrived home from work when I saw a tweet that mentioned this article http://bit.ly/nrsePL

What sense does it make to write something like that?

Let's just say there's A LOT of baloney in there.

1st off 9-5 at RIM & the City of Waterloo is untrue.
Where did he get the info that no one works past 5pm at RIM (or anywhere else in KW for that matter?)

Move to Toronto? Really? I like Toronto (so I won't write a bash Toronto rebuttle like he's hoping), but how would that make such a difference? We're 45 mins from Toronto. Not even kidding!

Let's talk headquarters. Bet he doesn't know that Home Hardware has it's headquarters in St. Jacob's (10 mins outside of Waterloo). They seem to be doing just fine being based out of town even smaller than Kitchener Waterloo. Wonder if he'll pick on them next. Oh wait he's a web writer not a business profiler.

A web writer with 500 followers on twitter.
Does that tell you something?

I won't comment on his blog & I won't follow him. That's what he's looking for. He could have found something positive to say, or found a picture that didn't show snow in a July column -who does that? Yeah a WHOLE lot of effort went into that article. There's other ways to create a buzz. Try helping out somewhere. I could make a BIG list of all the great things that happen here, but I don't have to. You just have to follow any person from KW on twitter to see all the great things going on.

Cocktail Party With A Cause

2011-07-14T06:36:00.000-07:00

What will happen at SIP FOR HOPE ?

We know you always want to go to new events in town, so a new fundraiser was created this summer!

It's a DOUBLE FUND/FOODRAISER! It will support both the Grand River Cancer Centre as well as The Food Bank Of Waterloo Region.

Where else can $25 help TWO local centres? Sip For Hope is creating a STIR!

It's featuring

Cocktail Deeva who is featured regularly on the Steven & Chris
Delicious nibblies from Little Mushroom Catering
Decor provided by Flourish

and more silent auction items than you can shake a stick at! We're talking Restaurants, Gourment Foods, & so much more!

But as of today there is a new item being added!

Win a Dinner Date with Trish at The Bauer Kitchen
- that will not be so much of silent auction as it will be a LIVE AUCTION!

So how do you get in on all this awesomeness?

Pack up your FOOD BANK DONATIONS & BUY YOUR TICKET

http://sipforhope.eventbrite.com/

Sip For Hope

2011-07-03T08:34:00.000-07:00

Who new this fluke one year ago would lead to my involvment with Marcel's Journey?

Close to a year ago (Aug 28/10) I noticed something strange in my neighbourhood. I saw some temporary fencing going up at the Roundabout. Later when I was home, I read on twitter that Lance Armstrong was in town so I put 2&2 together and figured the RIDE WITH LANCE would be coming through. I grabbed my trusty FlipCam & was able to catch a glimpse

Flash forward almost one year later. I receive a tweet from someone asking if I would like to be involved in a fundraising effort in Kitchener-Waterloo for the Grand River Cancer Centre. Of course this peaked my interest & suggested we should meet for coffee.

One day later I'm having coffee with Trish, Meghan & JoAnne.
They tell me all about Marcel's Journey . Trish explained that she is Meghan best friend & she was the one that contacted me on twitter. Marcel is Meghan's Father & JoAnne's husband. Marcel is a cancer survivor wanting to give back to the Grand River Cancer Center through the RIDE WITH LANCE . His goal is to be the TOP FUNDRAISER & earn the chance to wear the covented Yellow Jersey during the ride.

In order to make this happen they have hosted several Fundraising events all over Waterloo Region, and wanted to create an orginal event in the area to make Marcel's dream a reality.

Wheels Are Always Turning

If you know anything about me, you know I love Brainstorming & Events! I think if you would have looked hard enough that day you would have saw smoke from the little hamster wheel in my head going into overdrive. It didn't take long to lightening to strike and Sip For Hope was created.

This fun event is starring Cocktail Deeva , who does so much to #beatcancer and it's being held at the Victoria Park Pavillion on July 21st 2011. Dee will be showing us all how to make FAB Cocktails that can you can re-create for your summer entertaining. Along with that there will be fun raffles, door prizes & silent auction items galore!

Where else intown could a $25 ticket promise so much Fabulousness?

So please visit the NEW Sip For Hope registration page on Eventbrite http://sipforhope.eventbrite.com/ & grab your ticket! (if you prefer to pay cash for your ticket please contact Trish through twitter or leave a comment with your email address on this post).
There are a limited number of tickets, so make sure you GET YOUR SEAT!

To keep up with the fun make sure to follow the hashtag #Sip4Hope
Also make sure to visit all the links on this page to appreciate why everyone is working so hard to see Marcel RIDE WITH LANCE !

Cambridge Towel Canadian Made

2011-06-25T14:01:00.000-07:00

Made In Canada

Last week we learned there is more to a towel than meets the eye. Cambridge Towel is the last TRUE manufacturer in North America.

We spoke to Jason of Cambridge Towel last week and learned a lot about what makes a Cambridge Towel so great!

All of their dyes are safe
They create the whole towel from start to the packaging finish
They use only high quality materials to create their towels

But don't take my word for it. We went to visit Jason at the Cambridge Towel Tent Sale and he told us all about it!

Look out Vanna White! Diane's stepping in!

For more info on the great things happening with Cambridge Towel make sure to Like them on Facebook
and follow them on Twitter
With Canada Day quickly approaching, what better way to celebrate than buying CANADIAN?

When Thank-You Doesn't Seem Like Enough

2011-06-23T20:07:00.000-07:00

Where Do I Find The Words?

2011-06-22T22:08:00.000-07:00

I Can Do This

This post will be all over the place, thought wise. Just a warning. Normally I tag a gazillion things but not for this post. If spelling and grammar are important to you, please just shut your eyes as I dump my brain all over this post.

Amazing things happened tonight, to me. I saw a hug. Not one where someone gives you a squeeze and says see ya soon. This was different. I felt the warmth of a community wrap there arms around me, and it moved me to tears.

What happened is really kind of blur to me. There were so many things happening after that, I must have had some sort of emotions pushing me through to carry on for the remainder of the night.

Afterwards I went out with a small crowd for a post event snack. There I got to sit with Stephanie who asked me all about the events that had me so overwhelmed. I explained how my day started with the realization that someone broke into my car and stole my GPS, & how I sent it out to the tweeps & facebook pals about what happened & their received thoughtful messages which was so nice to hear. From there how after taking my son to school I cried on my way to work because I didn't want to end up being over emotional when I arrived, and figured that was the best way to let it out. Well that didn't help. I found myself on the brink of tears for the 1st hour of my work day. Being that I work with all guys I knew I had to come up with a new plan of attack. I decided to change my outlook about it and try to add humour and see the good that can be found in what had happened. During my break I wrote a letter to the new owner of my GPS. So many people said that my post made them laugh. That was what I needed to hear. I could now face people I knew with a smile and a giggle. Flash forward, I arrive at the Gibsons event I'm speaking with a group of my friends and then they asked to come & see Annie. I figure we're getting picture before the event starts. Then Jacki (who you may also know as the Snicker Fairy) comes in from behind & says that she has something for me, from everyone because of my rough day. Okay what a nice gesture I'm thinking, a little pick me up. I was wrong when I thought a little pick me up. How about a LIFT MY SPIRITS TO THE CEILING & BEYOND!!!! Here in this gift bag is a GPS for me. I tried to shove it back at Jacki because I was in TOTAL SHOCK. When I realized that she was telling me how many people were involved I broke down into tears for the 2nd time today. These tears were different. Happy tears. Now remember I just met Stephanie face to face for the 1st time tonight. She learned a whole lot about me in just a few minutes BUT I told her the whole story with out any tears. So I figure okay I'm good. I can go home and thank all that were involved without needing tissues.
Then I saw this.....

I take back what I said about not needing tissues, and I hope red puffy eyes are a good look for me, because I think that's the look I'm sporting for tomorrow. So how do you say Thank-you when this happens? I thanked people that I saw, but what about the others that weren't there? People that have met me a handful of times but I talk to everyday? When Jacki gets me a proper list and I get my head on straight, then I'll do it right. No more rambling, no more tears, just .... I don't know what that "just" is right now, but when I figure that out it will mean something!

Open Letter To The New Owner Of My GPS

2011-06-22T07:41:00.000-07:00

A Recap of My Wednesday Morning

Dear New Owner/Thief, or Person Who Bought/Traded for my GPS from said Thief,

I hope you are navigating around much easier since your new found TomTom has arrived in your possession. I thought you might want to know the History it's had since in case you need to ever know where its travelled to & how much great it was to be it's previous owner. This way you'll come to appreciate it as more than the "piece of HOT merch" you now have.

Our story begins several months ago when I purchased "her". Yes it's a she. If you plug it in, you'll hear the female voice that it's set to. I believe her name was Isabella by voice call. I should have gotten to know her better, but I guess I took for granted that we'd be driving buddies for years to come.

Back on track... she came into my life as I rescued her from a cage in Canadian Tire and brought her home for Christmas. She and I have had our battles. I have ignored her even though she has tried to make me see it her way, and make me turn around, but she eventually takes my stubbornness into account and re-evaluates the situation. She is also a confidence builder. I have never driven anywhere Hamilton way because I am always confused in the QEW area, but because of her earlier this month I made the trip to Burlington and was planning a trip to Niagara next month. She'll also make you giggle. She describes Roundabout as a Rotaray & she pronounces Weber St. as We-ay-bar St.

I was also looking forward to giving her a full make-over next month. You see she was about to become a he. For surprise for my son's birthday I was about to change her over to become Darth Vader, but I'm sure you will decide what is best for her now. As her new owner and I'm sure you will cherish her as much as I did, being that you wanted her so badly that you couldn't wait to go to Canadian Tire and adopt one of your own.

So here are my thank-yous I must extend. I DO THANK-YOU FOR NOT DAMAGING MY CAR. It's been through enough this year, so I do thank-you for not breaking any windows & being kind enough to let me know she was gone by leaving my glove box & arm console open for me to realize she had been relocated. Also I thank-you for being professional enough to know how to do this without setting off my alarm and not causing me to freak-out during the process of her being removed from my premises.

I also thank-you for giving her a place in history. She now has a police report number. I knew that they would not go looking for her, but felt she needed to be recognized. The officer was really nice to speak to this morning & said she will most like be bartered for, perhaps for something prescriptive, that's what he must have meant when he said Drugs. He also asked me if I'll be claiming it through my insurance, but I said no as my deductible would be more than the cost to buy a brand new one. This leads me to my next thank-you.

Thanks for giving me something to look forward to for Christmas 2011. My son is in the process of getting braces and I'm hoping to make a trek to Great Wolf Lodge this year as we haven't gone away to an overnight vacation since 2008, so I won't be replacing her anytime soon. Now I don't have to worry about what I will get myself this year.

But I really want to thank-you for challenging me. I always try to look for the good in every situation. This one was tough, but when my supportive friends on facebook and twitter immediately sent me messages to make me feel better, that is the silver lining that I am going with. No one was hurt, everyone is healthy and this situation will be just a hiccup in the grand scheme of things.

Donating Daily

2011-06-19T15:21:00.000-07:00

Cure for Clothes Clutter

My house is so cluttered with clothing. I have an 11 turning 12 year old & at that age they grow like weeds. I also am guilty of of clothes clutter myself. With the strange weather we've had for the month of June I've worn t-shirts, sweaters, shorts and jeans over the last few weeks. It's wreaking havoc on my laundry baskets, and overflowing my washing machine.

Ceasing this Opportunity

So while I see mountains of clothing that need to be folded and put away, I am making a pact to rid myself of items I no longer need. I live 5 mins away from a Salvation Army and I work 5 mins away from a Value Village so I am going to donate daily.

Everyday until I feel the task is completed I am going to pack up 1 garbage bag of clothes to donate. Instead of undertaking a MASS CLEAROUT which I never seem to get around to doing, I'm going to break it down to an achievable task.

On the days I don't do it (because I tend to run, run, run) I will force myself to double up the next day, because really 2 bags is not a lot either.

Readily Rewarded

For my 1st day I rewarded myself with Swiss Chalet for dinner (being that it's in the same plaza as the Salvation Army it was just meant to be). I won't reward myself everyday, but getting started requires some motivation.

So pals I'm asking you to keep me accountable. I'm going to check in everyday on this post and will let you know if I completed my daily task.

How do you tackle an overwhelming task?

Is Brantford the Centre of the Universe? #Tweetstock5

2011-06-18T18:17:00.000-07:00

Tweetstock 5

This week entailed another adventure to Brantford for Tweetstock 5 - Art Of The Community.
What does that mean? Kevin Magee said the idea came to him at a Chamber of Commerce meeting. It's about creating something in Brantford that will change how the people there feel about their city.

But I don't live in Brantford

(Although most people think I do)

My community is created online and extended to the places that it takes me to. My last Tweetstock post spoke of how I came to meet the creators of Tweetstock and became sucked into the GREATNESS they have happening there.

The community they are creating reaches far beyond the Brantford city limits. They are creating a movement. Its something that everyone can take part of. It can be incorporated in any part of the world where passionate and caring people live.
THEY JUST HAVEN'T REALIZED IT YET.

Walter Gretzky says that Brantford is the Centre of the Universe.
& I'm starting to think he's right.

#GGBliss could have been a miss if I lived in Saudi Arabia

2011-06-17T20:21:00.000-07:00

Travel Post?
This is not your typical travel post, but then again what is typical about me anyway?
So to start off GoGirlfriend.com is having a FIND YOUR BLISS Contest & for the last couple of weeks I've been trying to think of something AMAZING to write.
So far that hasn't happened, but something did spark this post.

When I woke up to the radio on my alarm clock this morning, I heard them joking about how Saudi Arabian women are breaking the law by driving. Apparently they are uploading videos of themselves driving around. Although I have a VERY odd sense of humour, this didn't strike me as funny at all. Infact I never thought about it being against the law for women to drive in other countries. Then I thought how different my life would be if I wasn't allowed to drive. How many friendships would have never came to be?

I love going to events and meeting people Face to Face. When you can take your online friendships and create an IN REAL LIFE HUGFEST nothing tops that!

So I rely on my car to travel, whether it's to get to Toronto, Oakville, Burlington ,or HIGHLY EXOTIC locales like Brantford or Cobourg I am thankful that I have the right to drive. So as of today my favorite place to travel is Highway 401

It takes me to HUGS.

(I have always said that Bon Jovi songs tell the story of my life)

So that is my @GoGirlfriend contest entry & like I said not your typical travel post. I leave that to the experts.

If you're still not convinced that I need to go to Blissdom Canada, we also put together a little presentation with the help of our good friends from Tweetstock

Life Changing Moment

2011-06-06T21:16:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have one of those moments that you know will change your life forever? I've been fortunate to have had a few of them. It happened again tonight. The moment lasted 4 hours. It included

a dinner
a dessert bar
an Educational Assistant/BFF & friend of all things Tiara
a Social Media Strategist/Travel Specialist/Connector & someone I truly admire
a Mortgage broker in transition to a new online identity. Who lives far away but just close enough
a Mediator with a knack for always taking it all in & knowing all the right things to say
a Real Estate Agent with a big heart. Who is always ready to do what he can to help
an Apple Specialist that applies his knowledge to help people on the other side of the globe
a Software professional that taught us all to Think Big & Then Think BIGGER
Brantford Royalty, who always make me feel like I belong & included & appreciated
A Social Media professional who loves travel books & easily fits in with our crew from all walks of life
A Rock Star who believes in our goal & willing to give his name & reputation to what we will accomplish

Tonight we went from the "small potates #140confSWO" to the "Larger Than Life #140confONT"

Tonight we were taken seriously by 140 Characters Conference creator Jeff Pulver.

Tonight we listened to the stories of events past, and felt like we there. Four hours passed quicker than five minutes tonight. I could have stayed and listened for hours and hours more. Jeff shared what his conference started out as, and what it has become.
There was something in the air tonight. I think all of there felt it. It was a sense of pride. We are doing this here, in Kitchener, in Waterloo Region, in Southwestern Ontario, for all Ontario and are the first in Canada.

The 140 Conference is coming to Canada. Sept 15, 2011

We have Jeff's blessing and will take pride in becoming the first team to bring it North of the USA border.

This night will be remembered as a moment in time. A time where someone who didn't already know me and my group of extrodinary friends and gave us a gift of trust.

Using Rare Sense To Deflate The Elephant

2011-05-18T18:34:00.000-07:00

Many of you have heard me go on about about how COMMON sense is NOT common and how I refer to it as RARE sense.

PLEASE show me that you have this sense and have pre-planned for your long weekend!

Not sure what I mean? Well lets just say I plan ahead while others don't.

You see I don't drink if I
A) Have my car
B) Have my child with me
and for the most part I usually have both

So when we go visiting I usually bring my own bottle of Ginger ale with me because most BBQ's I've been to give you the choice of BEER or Juice Boxes that were meant for the kids.

Then I usually get the "Oh come on, why did you bring Pop? You can have a Beer. You'll be here for hours and your son is older now, you don't need to run after him any more".

To which I reply "Well if something happens who's going to be able to take him to the hospital?"

Ah yes RARE sense gets them every time.

Now I imagine how different the convo would have went if they had said "Oh come on, why did you bring Pop? We made the special Mocktails from @CocktailDeeva 's video"

Now that is pre-planning & what RARE sense is all about!

For more tips on how to pre-plan (& prove you possess RARE sense) make sure to visit the Deflate The Elephant website and facebook page

UPDATE

2011-05-17T18:16:00.000-07:00

Last week I was asking for your generosity and so many came through in a BIG WAY-Thankfully Barb kept track of all the names

Karl Nieva
Tammy Jo Moore Hiemstra
Carolyn at Bingeman's
Christa from Baden
Jennifer Gough
Catherine Graham
Nickie Wylie
Reg Thompson
Dee Brun
Melissa Gissing
Chasity Kunda
Peter and Mary Moir
Andrea Johnston
& many more that dropped off items on Barb's porch & came by the sale to shop & enter the raffles.

Taking the time to gather items &/or coming by to the sale is appreciated more than you realize.

Earlier this week Barb received this letter from her Sister

Sometimes in your life you are so overshelmed that you don't know what to do. Up seems like down and down seems sideways. And through all this some amazing people touch your life and make you feel better. Suddenly it doesn't matter what is up or what is down. What matters is faith in mankind. Faith in those that care for people they do not know and are willing to help.

May God bless eveyone who has given time and effort into helping. They say what goes around comes around. May you all be blessed with an act of kindness. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you

Linda & Brian
Grimsby, Ontario
-----------------------
and Barb wanted to add this note to her new found friends

It is so very heartwarming to live in a community that comes together, shows support and gives comfort to strangers. I thank you all for caring enough to help, as you did, in so many ways. Your generosity will stay with me always.

Blessings,
Barb Irwin
-------------------------

I personally want to give kudos to Barb for this was quite an undertaking. She collected, sorted, priced & sold all with the thoughts of what happened to her Sister's home weighing on her.

Now for an UPDATE - At this point the inspectors think the home can be fixed (last week it was thought it may have to be bulldozed), but the timeline is still sitting at a year before they can moved back in.

The Yard sale raised $655 & with most items priced at a dollar or less, that tells you just how much stuff Barb sold. This will be used for "out of pocket" expenses for the family (they left the home just with the clothes on their backs and are currently staying in a hotel so they cannot store anything).

Again, I can't thank everyone enough that got involved. I wish I could put into words how much I appreciate everything you did to help. Your generosity made the difference.

Asking for your Generosity

2011-05-02T18:58:00.000-07:00

According to Wikipedia Generosity is the habit of giving freely without expecting anything in return. It can involve offering time, assets or talents to aid someone in need.
This is the reason I am asking for your GENEROSITY.

I know a wonderful family in Waterloo that had something terrible happen to their relatives in Grimsby last week.

It's easier if I quote Barb speaking about what happened to her Sister's home...

can't stop thinking about my sister Linda and Brian, and Wesley. Glad they are safe but still devasted for the loss of their home. I know you can't contact us right now but know you are in our every thought and in our prayers....

During the wind storms last week a tree fell on Barb's Sister's home.
When I saw that message I contacted Barb right away to find out what had happened. This what I was told ..

Right now all that we know is they are homeless, left with nothing but the clothing on their backs. The house has been officially condemned. I spoke last lnight with Linda finally, as they had no means to contact people as the hydro and tellies were out in Grimsby...

...she is a tough, tough lady but this has broken her spirit and I am heartbroken for them. They barely escaped with their lives...

...niece is pregnant with her 3rd and was at Linda's house to tell her and Wes to leave the house because trees were starting to fall. She was picking up her son from the school behind Linda's house because the weather had turned horrific and she was worried for him.

After this devastation the family has been told by Disater workers that their home is condemmed. They will not be able to go near their home FOR A YEAR.

Here are pics of what the house looks like now.

They lost everything. Right now they are staying in a hotel and have been told by the Disaster workers to find an apartment for the next year (there might even be the possibilty of them never going in & the house being bulldozed).

**This Saturday May 7th 2011, in Waterloo, Barb and her family are having a fundraising yard sale in order to raise some money to help her Sister's family. I know a lot of us have lots of swag and other stuff lying around. If you have anything you can donate please let me know so I can make arrangements to come and get it. You can email those2girls@writeme.com twitter @those2girls or facebook my inbox lisamcdonald122

If you have large items I will put you in touch with Barb, as I just have a car. I know many of you are busy, so even "porch pick up" will do.

If you don't have anything to donate, please take some time visit the sale at

104 Craigston Pl Waterloo between 9am-noon.

Thank-you in advance for YOUR generosity. It is very appreciated and WILL make a difference to those it affected.

Jewel - Hands by Amzer

Cultural Exchange 2.0

2011-04-27T18:18:00.000-07:00

Many of you know I do a weekly blast through my local Facebook Group & Blog Stuff To Do With Your Kids In Kitchener Waterloo, but not many of you know why I do it.

In KW there are two sets of FREE/LOW COST Children's Activities. The first is for Children 6 and under. The second is for those 13 and up.

If you have a child the age of 7 to 12 you've got a dilema. YES there are all kinds of organizations IE Minor Sports, Drama Schools, Music Lessons etc. to sign up for, but the costs are very high and if you want to do more than one it can be difficult on a budget.

If you're child is very young there are FREE library programs, Early Childhood Centres, Playgroups etc.

If you're a teen there are EYEGO programs, youth festivals etc.

They've forgotten about the tweens here. They aren't old enough to go places without their parents, but too old to be amused by sing a-longs and cut and paste projects.

There are lots of events in KW but without budgets for advertising it's difficult to get the word out about them (we used to live for the summer, being many of the outdoor festivals offer fun for all). That's why I do the weekly blast, I research for family events happening locally & glady welcome info from others about great KW happenings and get the word out to the parents in this area.

I saw a "problem" & I found a way to do something about it.

Today THEMUESEUM (a place I fully support any opportunity I get) hosted #CulturalExchange2 which was an evening to meet local candidates and hear their views on Arts & Culture in KW.

I think my "problem" would count as Culture based one. I figured if I complain about this problem I should be taking steps to rectify it and saw this as an opportunity to hear the opinions of others, about this, and other topics surrounding the Arts & Culture Community in this Region.

I loved the way that the event was set up. Thankfully it was NOT a debate. I hate the me vs. you, or it's all their fault type of discussions.

The event was set up as groupings. Each Candidate had 3 mins to talk about Arts & Culture. Then the candidates were rotated from table to table to discuss with the attendees their thoughts on the topics.

Our table had an Artist, a CBC advocate, a Social Media/Venue pressence and a MOM.

Being that I am NOT shy I spoke to everyone that came to our table (that's why we were there right?) about Arts & Culture in KW. I feel we (our table)were heard and I think that candidates felt the same. One thing did strike me as extremely memorable. One candidate asked if I was an artist, to which I replied no and explained my "problem"/reason for attending. I brought up the point that many TEEN events are not well attended because they lose them over the TWEEN years and wonder why they don't come back. I also mentioned that experiencing new things is also a part of the learning process and the TWEENS may have carried that on to TEEN years had they been given that encouragement from the Arts and Culture sector. The candidates and attendees at the table did not realize that there was such a gap for tween kids in KW. I hope they do something to change that now that they have been informed.

Many thanks to THEMUSEUM for hosting an event that opened eyes from both sides of the table.

Following Fans

2011-04-26T15:29:00.000-07:00

There are all kinds of blog tours (blog carnivals, memes however you refer to them) to help gain blog readers. There are also comment loops to increase traffic and twitter parties almost every night to help you gain followers and get people reading your info.

What I've noticed a lot of lately are a lot of "Hey want to follow my Fan Page?" requests. I myself am included in this request statement.

No matter how much you update, send invites for followers, add Like buttons linking to the page, etc. I've found it hard to gain followers on the Fan Pages I admin and keep the Fans engaging on the Fan Pages.

My Facebook Profile and Twitter Profile are growing steadily and I am thankful for that, but it seems unless you are a HUGE corporation a lot Fan Pages don't increase in numbers the way that other networks do.

So I've Got A Plan....

Following Fans!

It works like the blog tours, but with a few simple rules if you would like to participate

You must have a Facebook Fan Page that get updated AT LEAST once a week (preferrably more to keep your audience engaged)
Remember to be HELPFUL to the pages you LIKE (Thumbs Up, Comments etc)
If you REALLY REALLY REALLY like their content, make sure to add it to your Page Favorites

Remember the more you give the more you get!

How Do YOU Join in the fun? Just put the info the boxes below

The Name Of Your Facebook Fan Page
Your Email (it won't be displayed)
The URL for your Facebook Fan Page (IE http://www.facebook.com/Those2Girls6DegreesOfUs)

When you hit submit it will make a clickable link to your Fan Page. What are you waiting for? Submit yours & start checking out the others listed. A little LIKE can go a LONG way!

Eminem Dr Dre and Those2Girls

2011-04-19T18:39:00.000-07:00

Driving home today the new Eminem/Dr Dre I NEED A DOCTOR tune came on. As I'm singing along I came to the realization that their solid friendship is a lot like Diane & my friendship, with the exception of the F-Bombs & Rap Skills.
I know that sounds WHACK (Gangsta enough for you?) but it's true.

We always have each other's back no matter the situation. We believe in each others goals and are always open to see what new challenges/fun/adventures are coming our way. We know what Dre & Marshall are talking about when they say about others talking SMACK (see I can do this). We've been told that we're draining, loud, intense, our ideas won't work, we will fail miserably trying, I could go on, but just like that DUO we don't let any of that noise get in our way.

Why did I write all of this? Diane needs some cheering up. She's been ill all week (& truthfully for the better part of month) and needs some encouragement. She's frustrated and feels that the doctors, pharmascists, natural food store services reps etc. aren't listening to her

But I'm listening.

Sometimes I lean on her, sometimes she leans on me. Sometimes she's Eminem & Sometimes she's Dr. Dre.

Take a listen & you'll know what I mean

When she's back to perfect health, who knows what we'll tackle next. Do you have someone like this in your life? Who's your Eminem?

Boobfest from my Perfect little Perch

2011-04-05T18:06:00.000-07:00

Last June I was fortunate enough to attend Boobfest. No it's not a festival of boobs, but it is a festival FOR boob health!
Dee aka @CocktailDeeva spoiled us all with food, fun and fabulousness all for an important cause. She raised funds to participate in the Weeknend To End Women's Cancers.

That was last June

Flash forward --> Dee has been very inspiring to the women who converse with her online & in real life.

She and sparked a movement with her #BeKind video
Turned shoe swapping into a benefit for local food banks.
She taught us all how to use technolgy to start convos with our kids via her #DearDaughter video
Is always supportive of the people around her

January 1st everyone was announcing their resolutions. Right now I am so VERY thankful for all the wonderful things that happened in 2010 I decided my resolution was to #PayItForward . I told Dee that my resolution was to help her with whatever I could this year. I'm glad she knows I'm true to my word.

I got a message from Dee saying that this year she wanted to add a twitter element to BOOBFEST 2011 & would I be interested in hosting the twitter party right from her party.
I immediately said yes! Not only was I excited, I was honoured that she would entrust a part of her event to me aka the #TwitterFairy.

I had my only little spot which I called my #TwitterFairy perch. I was able to interact with guests at the party and with the online donaters. It was the best of both worlds.

Not only did I get to know more about the online participants, I also had a great perspective of everything going on in the KITCHEN PARTY. (See what what happened here), which included capturing my now FAVE pic of Dee

When the online & in person parties ended the donations totaled $11,000.00

We'll DEFINATELY Drink to that

(thanks Diane for taking over camera duties!)

Please know that the fundraising continues over at Boobfest.ca where you can contribute to Dee's 2011 walk.

I can't begin to describe what an amazing night it was, but I hope this #TwitterFairy earned her wings!

Twitter Hashtags & Twitter Parties! Are you in the LOOP?

2011-03-30T02:03:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I know of two twitter parties this week. Wednesday night @YMCBookalicious is having a book club one & Thursday is the @Boobfest twitter party. I've been telling people about them, but then this happens...

I hear "but they are so confusing"
So I respond with "FOLLOW THE HASHTAG"
Which then I hear "what does that mean?"

So here is the way I follow twitter parties. 1st I use tweetdeck. I have instructions about tweetdeck on this post. Twitter for pals not yet on twitter
Further down on that post I explain tweetdeck.

Now that you have tweetdeck all fired up there is a trick. A hashtag which is essentially the number sign # and it makes whatever is right beside it searchable.
In tweetdeck if you click on the hashtag, a new column pops up & lists every tweet with that hashtag in it, and updates the stream as new tweets come in.

If for some reason tweetdeck is not your preference I've started using a different site that it works on as well
Kurrently.com searches both Twitter & Facebook for that hashtag & constantly auto-updates it as well. Plus in the left column you can pick the speed you want it to update.

Test it with our FAVE hashtag #TiaraARMY Send out a tweet & put #TiaraARMY in your tweet. Everyone following the #TiaraARMY hashtag will then see it in their feed.

How does this help? Well first off you will connect with a bunch of new twitter folks that have the same interest as you. Second you can participate in TWITTER PARTIES!

What are Twitter Parties? Well they are a convo about a common topic.

Wednesday (March 30, 2011) night @YMCBookalicious will be hosting a Book Club Twitter Party for Jodi Picoult's "Sing You Home" You can read more about it here Rembember to use the hashtag #SingYouHome to particpate/follow along. Wanda is great & will help you get the hang of it!

Thursday (March 31, 2011) night I am lucky enough to be hosting @CocktailDeeva 's @Boobfest twitter party. Make sure to register here to "Help Save First Base" (that always makes my chuckle). With you registration you have the chance to win some fabulous prizes while helping this very worthy cause.
For more info on Boobfest, make sure to check out Boobfest.ca

Don't worry about twitter ettiquiette (which will be a separate post) during a twitter party because they move very fast! Just make sure to keep a positive attitude & remember to have fun. Who knows you might form a friendship or two via the twitter party.

If you have any advice or favorite sites you use for hastags/twitter parties, please leave it in the comment section! I'd love to here about it too!

& remember if you have questions be sure to hit me up @Those2Girls

Happy Twittering All!

International Women's Day 2011 & what I did for it

2011-03-08T06:39:00.000-08:00

Today marks 100th International Women's Day. Usually I take this day to talk about how I'm very lucky to live in a country where I have rights as so many women around the world do not. I also talk about how thankful I am to the women who fought for those rights, and how we need to appreciate everything they went through to do that.

This year I decided to talk about something different. I decided at 7:30am this morning after I watched this

It's about my label... and it's about a post. A post that I have re-written several times. A post I submitted to a few sites regarding my family situation. No one ever published it. I figured my story wasn't worth it then. I made me think it was too harsh for others to hear.

Until this morning.....

___________________________________________________________________________

The Truth Is... I'm a Single Mom

But I’ll never tell you that when I first meet you. Why? Because you’ll treat me differently. It’s happened before. It’s like the episode of Sex In The City when Miranda is trying to buy an apartment and she says “It’s just me” everyone is taken aback by it all.

I wasn’t always single, but at no point after my son was born did I refer to myself as a Married Mom, so why would I start calling myself a Single Mom? I’m a Mom and a good one at that! (cue the roaring crowd).

I love meeting people. I love hearing their stories. I dislike when they start out with “Well I’m a Single Mom” I just smile and nod. Your marital status should have no bearing on who you are. It’s about you, not who you’re with. If you are married and happy that’s great! If you’re single and happy why can’t that be great too?

Apparently a lot don’t see it that way. Once people do find out that I’m single I hear the most awkward things “but you seem so cheerful I would have never guessed you’re alone” or “do you find the holidays tough financially and emotionally being a Single Mom?” I don’t know how to respond to those statements. I usually just stammer something about I’m fine and all is well, but really I think that the person inquiring thinks less of me.

Really what is a Married Mom? Obviously she’s a Mom that’s married.

What is a Single Mom, well that’s a whole new can a of worms

She could have always been single, and raised a child on her own. She could have been married then widowed. She could be divorced with full custody. She could be divorced with split custody. The scenarios are endless. Great Moms are great no matter the circumstances. We all run kids activities, wipe runny noses, wash too many loads of laundry, and wish for a few more hours of sleep.

That’s the group I want to be in with. So The Truth is … I’m a Mom
_______________________________________________________________________________

There is it my label about me being ME
Thanks to Mabels Lables for sparking something what would have been labeled as just another TUESDAY Morning.

How Tweestock Made Brantford My 2nd Home

2011-03-06T08:36:00.000-08:00

It all started on Twitter (of course it did, all the great things do).

@unmarketing 's Scott Stratten sent out a tweet. He was working on the #unbook at the time & asked how business owners felt about Trade Shows. I messaged back asking him if he would be interested in hearing about it from a show organizer's point of view (I am never afraid to ask, I figure the worst people can say to me is no & I'm okay with that). Scott said SURE & I was very excited to be given this opportunity. Fast forward several months and not only did Scott read my take on it, HE QUOTED ME IN THE UNMARKETING BOOK!

(this is my current claim to fame. I spent most of the summer saying, not only am I in a Book, I'm in a book THAT PEOPLE ARE READING-this is a big deal to this little KW Gal).

I can't thank Scott enough. It's brought a lot of attention to MeFest and my co-host Diane & I are eternally grateful for it.
But we're also thankful for a whole other reason.
We gained a new set of Friends because of it. They live in Brantford Ontario.

Diane and I headed off to the Unmarketing Book Launch in Sept 2010.
It was the first time I got to meet @LindseyJay face to face. She brought @Trevor_Cherewka with her. The four of us chatted about tweetups and how they have so many in Toronto and area, but that's a lot of travelling for us. Lindsay said that Trevor organizes Tweetstock in Brantford and how fun it was. We said that it's just down the road from KW & we would love to attend the next one.

A few weeks later Trevor messaged me asking me if we would speak at the next Tweetstock. I agreed, but unfortunately Diane wasn't available. This posed a bit of a problem. If you know or follow me, I'm very social. I love the back and forth of a conversation, coming up with ideas, learning about new things, so this would be easy right? I found myself standing in front of a group of people talking to them about using twitter in an engaging way, only to find out most of them weren't on twitter. So my talk became a bit of a ramble but after the speaking part I went back to having convos with the people in attendance and really loved how they were open to trying twitter (and taking Tiara pics!).

Since then I have been back to Brantford several times and my new pals have come to events in KW as well. I was so excited to hear that the @TweetstockCA team were going to have both @KathyBuckworth and Scott Stratten for #Tweestock4 , but then quickly saddened by the fact it was the same day as TEDxWaterloo. Just because I didn't think I could make it work it didn't stop me from helping my pals get the word out about such an #EPIC event! It took until the week of the event to get all the quirks worked out so that Diane & I could arrange to GO TO TWEETSTOCK4 !!! Yes I was that excited when I found out I could be there. Upon arrival we were welcomed with open arms Literally (I warn people that I hug & take lots of pics). The event was fantastic take a look here. We had friends from London to Oakville that made the trip and the energy in the room that day was UN-believable (see how I threw that in there).

Hours later we arrived at the after party only for me to realize that I left my camera behind. All of my pals hopped on twitter (remember the people who didn't have twitter just months earlier) and were messaging the organizers and the @SandersonCentre to let them know what had happened. The following day I was informed that my camera was found and for fun Trevor tweeted out that a camera was found. So many tweets came in saying that it belongs to @Those2Girls . It made me feel so good to know that so many people were looking out for me.

As you can see I do have my camera back in my possession and speaking with Diane I said, once this weather breaks I can see us spending most of our time in Brantford (aka now my 2nd home).

Should you Buy Local JUST BECAUSE they are LOCAL?

2011-02-09T15:47:00.000-08:00

This post is a jump off from my facebook wall earlier this week. If you're my pal on facebook it can be found here http://www.facebook.com/lisamcdonald122/posts/110348422373884

The gist of it was that my pals made a vlog at a Williams Coffee Pub. It was brought to their attention that there are a lot of locally owned cafes in KW and that they shouldn't give their money to a CHAIN.

I have experienced both sides of this. For the better part of my life I worked for a franchise, now I work for a small business, so I feel I can speak about this fairly.

Many people think that working for a popular franchise means constant money coming in. It doesn't. There are quotas to be met, if they aren't, hours get cut and a lot of pressure is put on the staff. So by deciding to avoid these places affects the paycheques of the employees and their working environment.

Small businesses have a lot of challenges too, as they strive to stay original in order to compete in a market with sometimes much larger competition.

FOR ME, it all comes down to CUSTOMER SERVICE!

I have gone into a chain store and have felt like a number, but I've also gone to chain where everyone there is smiling, chats with me and knows what I want to order.

On the flip side I've gone into small businesses with one location and been greeted warmly and appreciated for the dollars I have spent there, but that is not always the case. I have also visited small businesses that take one look at my son's hockey button on my coat (which I proudly wear!) and have them stick their noses up and turn the other way. Apparently Mom Jeans and Hockey pics mean that my cash is not welcome there.

I have tons of stories both good and bad from both types of businesses. I will always go back to the ones that were friendly and helpful.

Here's a fun fact Williams originated in Stratford (I put Brantford on my Facebook, but either way they are both close to KW) http://www.williamsfreshcafe.com/williams-story
So the by the whole "only LOCAL businesses" logic, that means if a small business becomes successful and expands into different areas you should no longer support them? What sense does that make?

What influences your choices on where you shop, go to eat, etc? Do you agree or disagree with my thoughts? I'd love to hear if any of this rings true with you or am I way off base.

Friendships Formed on Facebook/Twitter

2011-01-23T07:53:00.000-08:00

You often hear me mention about all the supportive pals I have. This time I've asked these pals about the Friendships they formed through Facebook/Twitter.

Here are the responses that I received.

"When my BFFF is sad, I shoot myself out of a cannon to cheer her up."

from http://www.theanimatedwoman.com/2010/08/chocolate-assholes.html
-----------------------
@littlemissmocha Facebook is for people I already know. But on Twitter I have met so so many people I like, respect, appreciate.
----------------------

Hi Lisa,
I've been using twitter since '09 but seriously using it since September '10. Since September, I have found amazing people (locally and abroad) that share similar passions to me. By going to tweet-ups and engaging with people via twitter I found some amazing people.
Twitter has enabled me to start a foundation to build a relationship with others, and then meeting them offline has furthered our relationship. Through the ongoing online and offline conversations we have been able to establish a relationship rather quickly because we can talk all the time! Twitter has helped me both professionally and personally grow in my field and strengthen my communication and knowledge to continue to aid people through conflict.

Thanks Lisa, for giving me the opportunity to express just one way that twitter has grown my relationships. Also, thanks for your friendship :)

@Jasondyk http://www.absolutionmediation.ca/
------------------------
Hi Lisa,

@Jurego here from Twitter. I developed a great friendship with @bizaaron over Twitter. Since talking over Twitter, we've actually hung out a few times, went to TweetUps, and was even a guest on a weekly radio show I co-host. It's been great, cause he's given me great advice on things, and is always good for a laugh.
I think this look into friendships online that you're doing is really cool. I'm looking forward to hearing more about them. Thanks!
---------------------

@Fleur_de_Lotus
This one is my best story of twitter friendship... with people I have yet to meet: http://thelotuspad.com/2010/12/semper-progedi/.

There is also @CLBuchananPhoto who I first met going to a Guns & Roses concert - that we got on twitter for free - who had me over for Christmas dinner this year as my family is out of town.

And @Beach_Mama who is the sweetest person ever and one of the main reasons I started my blog in the first place and who I spent boxing day with having dinner with our significant others and watching live music :)
There are many others... but those stick out the most.
----------------------

@DarlingNicky999
Here are a few quotes or excerpts from "friendship" articles I have written with links to the original article.

"Flip-Flops are for ur feet. Not the way you treat your friendships or relationships". - Darling Nicky

http://www.darlingnicky999.com/2010/08/flip-flops-are-for-your-feet.html

"Friendship" themed tweets I have made as @darlingnicky999

Friendship is not a one-way street. If it is, I'm fully throwing it into reverse
Friendship is about being able to talk about the hard stuff as effortlessly as the good stuff. It's called trust.
Friendship is a simple thing like taking your friend's car through the car wash simply b/c they overheard you say it was dirty.
Friendship doesn't make unreasonable demands on your time. Friendship doesn't have deadlines. Work does.
Friendship is helping one another to accomplish each other's goals.

Friendship is about listening AND hearing what the other has to stay. Not just allowing them to speak.
Friendship should have NO strings attached. If it does, it's not a friendship, it's a puppet show.
Friendship should not involve s-e-x. If it does, you're not friends, you're lovers.
Friendship is supposed to make you feel good. About yourself, about others, about the world around you.
"Friendship should be transparent, with no hidden agendas, no alterior motives. The moment that the balance shifts, honesty is the ONLY thing that can save it."

Here is the quick link on every article I've ever written on "Friendship". Skim through if you like, and feel free to use anything that supports your point of view.

http://www.darlingnicky999.com/search/label/friendship

----------------

@JessAriasCooper
I haven't made many friends via facebook, but I have made quite a few that I talk to regularly on twitter. I was really skeptical of twitter at first, but once I got my bearings and started chatting with people, I totally get what all the hype is about. I've made some great connections with both men and women who I share a ton in common with, as a parent, professional or just in general. I've made some good friends who live all over the world thanks to twitter.

Twitter is a lot like high school. When you walk down the hallway, there are people who you greet with a nod, and then there are few, you just can't wait to see the next time, until eventually, you're relationship blossoms into a true friendship.

Twitter is a badass way to connect with other people. I'd recommend it to anyone.
-------------------------
@OptiMom
I have access to people all over this marvelous planet that I otherwise would never have met. It is a source of unconditional love and connection to other like-minded people especially those who have a philanthropic dedication to improving one's communities!
xxxooo
-----------------------------
It is because of my “Twitlationships” that I feel connected. When I need a shoulder, I tweeter; when I need to smile, I tweeter; when I need to share, I tweeter; those that response do so because of our “Twitlationships”. As a newcomer to GTA… well to Canada and having only my immediate family as my support, I rely on tweeter as well as Facebook to find resources, solve issues, share and vent. As a result, I have discovered true friendship, shared interests and laughter that I would have never thought possible.

@scribblinmama
http://www.scribblensplatter.com/

--------------------
@Cheryl Peters
Hey Lisa! Here's how our story goes. I met Nolie ( @NoliesPlace) shortly after they announced Blissdom Canada. She was looking for a roommate to share hotel expenses with. I tweeted at her and said I'd be interested. We begun tweeting back and forth, making conversation. Fast forward to the early bird registration. She got in, I didn't. Nolie kept looking for a roommate with little to no luck. 2 tickets actually landed in my lap for Blissdom Canada. So, Nolie told me it was a sign so, I should go to Blissdom. One week before Blissdom, Nolie ws invited to She's connected. I offered to let her stay with me over night I thought about and asked my husband "Do you think i'm weird for inviting someone to our home that I've never met in person?!" He didn't think it was strange since I talked to her several times a day.
So, thankfully, because of Twitter, I have met one of my closest friends!
---------------------------
http://twitter.com/partymomma

I was into the internet before it was cool.

I started using chat rooms when I was only 12 years old, in 1994. Back then, ‘asl’ was pretty much the terminology and you couldn’t ‘lol’, you could only ‘haha’ if you had to express laughter.

I did grow tired of it at some point, until I was 21 with my first baby, who was about 6 weeks old, and wouldn’t poop. Most new moms who might be feeling nervous with a screaming baby would call their mother, to perhaps, offer advice. Mine, however, seemed to want nothing to do with me or my baby because I had a boy child and not the little girl she told me my whole life “I better have”. And since I didn’t do what she wanted she chose a friend’s birthday party at a bar over coming to the hospital with me when I was in labour and she was one of the last people to visit me after he was born.

So as I sat there holding my 6 week old boy who hadn’t pooped in 3 days I cried along with him until he fell asleep. Then I started looking for information on the internet. I came across a message forum for moms and started reading a bit and I liked what I saw - Moms helping moms.

I joined the site and before I knew it I was on there every day asking questions, answering questions, talking about random things – it was wonderful. Since none of my real life friends had children yet and most of them had pretty much disappeared for a while, it was nice to feel connected to the world through this site and 7 years later I am still friends with a few of those people.

However, most of my real life friends and family thought I was weird to think people online could be ‘real’ or be friends.

We would exchange gifts (kris kringle style) at Christmas time, send flowers when a new baby was born, some even sent birthday gifts. Since most of these ladies were American I used to send them a container of Tim Horton’s Coffee, which was well received.

Since then, I have made friends online from other places as well, including on my xbox360. I enjoy playing Tetris and I was so excited when I found out that I could play Tetris online with people who could actually play; many better than I can. As you play you can talk to each other with the microphone and before I knew it a bunch of us were working on organizing tournaments, texting and talking on the phone.

My family and friends thought I was weird (some still think I am weird) for talking to people through a video game.

And of course, there is the ever so popular social media methods that we are now all accustomed to; Facebook and Twitter. The one place I can talk to strangers and not be labeled as weird. As far as these two mediums go I like to keep Facebook for my real life family and friends and a few select very close online friends and Twitter is for the world.

Facebook is a great way to stay in touch with everyone without taking up much time. It’s easy to leave a quick note, comment on some pictures and be on my way. I can also do those things with noisy children running around; something I can’t do while on the phone.

Twitter is a great place to see things from a multitude of perspectives, meet very interesting people from all walks of life and even feel connected to some favorite celebrities.

The great thing about meeting people online is that people feel comfortable typing. It’s much easier to open up, loosen up and just be yourself online. It’s also nice to sometimes have people to talk to who do not know you for real or know your friends or family. They become people to confide in and vent to in a nonthreatening way.

I love meeting people online and so many wonderful people have helped me through many tough times, brought me laughter, shared tears, and helped cure boredom. I feel sorry for those with closed minds about the value of friendship found online as they are missing out on a valuable tool to finding people to connect with. I am glad the internet is cool now, even though I still usually feel like one of the weird kids.

----------------------------
@jackiyo

My experience with Twitter has resulted in a life-direction change. Everyone who has been directly involved in helping me see and find my passion was introduced to me through Twitter. My biggest cheering section is on Twitter. My biggest supporters are on Twitter. My customers have come from Twitter. So many opportunities have presented themselves to me because of Twitter. It's incredible. It's so hard to describe the difference. Get on Twitter, push through the dip, and experience the awesomeness.

-----------------
@DavidPylyp

Four or five years ago I began my journey of internet marketing that started with a voracious appetite to read everything I could find about webpages and search engine optimization. On a number of different bulletin boards and forums, I kept running across a Canadian Real Estate Broker who responded patiently to my website inquiries.

A few years later I asked about Twitter. He laughed and said its really simple. You follow people and they follow you back. From those simplistic insights @DaveChomitz has guided and inspired my entry into the video marketing arena, youtube syndication and embedding video topics into blogs and [he] does provide a intuitive sounding board for co-collaborative marketing ideas. We have met a few times (IRL) at functions, panels and classes like ReBAR Camp and Real Estate Marketing Summit - remarkto2010. Next is the advent of QR codes and how to apply the technology. At each meeting we share a childlike delight in discovering new concepts that help grow and nurture ideas and "nuggets" of wisdom. This sharing has, I hope enhanced both our careers. Twitter and Facebook have permitted a connection and engagement with like minded people that I would not otherwise be exposed to. @TamaraDorris explained the process and magic of BlogTalk Radio and created a completely new Facebook sphere all the way to Sacramento California. I have the opportunity to read and learn from some great internet marketers about their concepts for drip marketing and Seth Godin's concepts on Tribes of Followers.

A wonderful person told me recently; When the student is ready the teacher will appear.
--------------------
Do you have a story about how you formed a friendship on Facebook/Twitter?
Please message me with it
facebook.com/lisamcdonald122

Too Many Facebook Apps

2011-01-15T10:52:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I tried out a new app on Facebook. Five minutes later my computer did some funky stuff! I figured out how to remove unwanted apps & found there were a ton in there that had been sitting for 6 months or more. I asked through my Facebook Status if I should I write a post on how to remove unwanted apps, and the consensus was YES PLEASE!

So do this when you have about 10 mins of free time. It's easy enough to do, but once you see how many applications are sitting there, I'm sure you'll be as shocked as I was. The problem is you have to remove them one at a time.

Login to Facebook
Click on Account (top right corner)
From the dropdown menu pick Privacy Setting
In the new window that popped up, scroll down to the bottom
In the bottom left corner under Apps and Websites click Edit Your Settings
Under Apps You Use you will see a few listed right under that you'll see Remove unwanted or spammy apps, click that

Now is the time consuming part

A listing of all of your apps will show up on the screen
To the far right of the app is a little "x" click it to remove the app
Then another little box will show up asking if you're removing & you hit okay
Then it goes back to the listing screen and click the "x"' 's for each one (and a dialouge confirmation box will pop up each time too)

Now feel good that you've decluttered something today!
If this tip was helpful, please leave a comment so I know if you'd like to see more hints and tricks!

Keep Smiling!
Lisa

Facebook Profile Maker

2010-12-29T17:50:00.000-08:00

I just found out from my pal Breanne how to simplify the process when making a new profile page now that Facebook has changed to THE NEW PROFILE.

It's very easy just go to http://apps.facebook.com/profile-maker/ then upload a picture. Next drag the cusor around in the left pane until you have it set the way you want it. After that push the slider on the zoom tool to how big you want it to appear (you may have to readjust the left pane again) & click create profile. In under a minute you'll get a message saying choose this as your profile pic (bottom right corner of the pic screen) & BOOYA! Success!

As always mine is all about the TIARA !!!

Go ahead & try it yourself. Then post you profile link in my comments I'd love to see how creative everyone will be!

My Brushes With Fame 2011

2010-12-17T04:57:00.000-08:00

This collage shows only part of the fantastic things that happened to me this year.
If you don't know all of the people in the photos, you should! See their listings below the collage!

Start of Dan for Mayor Fred Ewanuick -he was the Parade Marshall for the Oktoberfest Parade (& apologized for not being Ellen)
Actress Patty Sullivan (Diane is in this pic & I took it) See her on CBC or starring on stage (after her maternity leave that is)
Yummy Mummy Extrodinare Erica Ehm (@ Kathy Buckworth's book launch)
Brendan O'Carroll creator of Mrs. Brown's Boys (in Toronto)
Members of the band Mariana's Trench @ Hockeyfest
Kathy Buckworth author/humourist @ her Springridge Farms event
Fitz The Whip Vanderpool Boxing Champion @ Kidspark
Brenda Halloran Mayor of Waterloo @MeFest
Sue Warden of HGTV Canada's Craftscapes @ Season's Christmas Show
Carlos Benevides Radio personality of 91.5 The Beat & Moustache enthusiast @ Movember Kick Off
Dee Brun aka The Cocktail Deeva, what doesn't she do? Author, Bar Chef, Humourist TIARA WEARER!!!! @ Toronto Home Show
Mike Holmes of HGTV's Holmes on Homes @ WLU
John Placko of the Maple Leaf commercials @ ShesConnected Conference
Silks the Prize Guy Radio personality of 91.5 the Beat who we always run into at random places (as you can see by the pic)
Academy Award Winning Procducer of Titanic & Avatar Jon Landau @ The Museum (also w/ his Oscar!)
Scott Stratten author/public speaker who was awesome enough to mention MeFest in his book (page 236 go look it up-I know you own it)

What comes after #TiaraTuesday EASY it's #rembrWHENsday

2010-11-24T00:35:00.000-08:00

I've made another new local pal on twitter @craiger_c (make sure to give him a follow-he is #kwAwesome). Not only has he joined the #TiaraARMY he supplied @JackiYo with 4 tickets to a Kitchener Rangers game for her YoBooks launch party (& she picked me as the winner -whoo hoo).

So naturally when he told me about his idea for a new LOCAL hashtag, I wanted to help him out.

We're talking about #rembrWHENsday KW!
"It'll be a chance to share something from our community from times gone by that you remember. Like when the place to shop for toys was Hiway Market!"

Truthfully I have lived in Kitchener Waterloo all of my life so I could could come up with tons.

Here's my first #rembrWHENsday tweet

I was born in #kwAwesome back when GR RIVER HOSP was called KW Hospital #rembrWHENsday

Make sure to use the hashtag #rembrWHENsday in your tweet so we can all follow along!

What is #TiaraTuesday ?

2010-11-14T05:09:00.000-08:00

I've had a lot of questions surrounding what #TiaraTuesday actually is. It's just a fun twitter perk to make you smile on a Tuesday.

It's a lot like #FollowFriday with a twist. If you receive a #TiaraTuesday shoutout then you are asked to PAY IT FORWARD with a #TiaraTuesday shoutout of your own (make sure to use the hastag so we can all follow along in the fun).

There's really no required criteria for a #TiaraTuesday shoutout, but here's some ways to play

Upload a pic of you in a Tiara (we love them all even Dollarama Tiaras)
Do something special for someone & let me know about it here, @those2girls
send someone else a #TiaraTuesday shoutout with the reasoning why you are sending it to them
If you know someone who's had a tough week, nominate them to give them something to smile about!

That's just the start of our list! Basically we want to brighten your Tuesday!
Remember after you get one, PAY IT FORWARD to someone else on twitter.

Now you've become a honourary member of the #TiaraARMY

Was I Bliss-less by not attending #BlissdomCanada ?

2010-10-30T15:34:00.000-07:00

What is Blissdom Canada?

Well for being someone that didn't attend I'll go with a three day conference with bloggers to meet, great and learn. It's about networking with other bloggers, brands & speakers.
Yes it does sound like somewhere I would have a fantastic time, but I wasn't able to go to Blissdom Canada. It wasn't that I didn't want to, it's just that the timing wasn't right for me.

I have saw first hand that when people don't get to go to certain events the little green eyed monster shows up. I've read it on twitter & facebook.

Personally I think that is ridiculous.

I was very excited for my pals that they were attending. They still included everyone not attending in the great happenings of each day. I read daily recap blogs. Live tweets during Keynote Speaking were sent to highlight important topics and I had a blast last night seeing everyone's pics of the Costume Party.

Today I asked on the #BlissdomCanada (hastag) if anyone is doing a recap of BlissdomCanada could they please send me a link to their blog? Within minutes I was getting replies. Everyone is happy to share what they learned.

So although I was unable to attend the inaugural BlissdomCanada I didn't feel left out. Instead I felt somewhat "in the loop"
That's the difference between jealously and supportiveness.

Bliss(domCanada) is what you make it!

DOVE SELF ESTEEM WEEKEND

2010-10-23T11:30:00.000-07:00

I wrote this back in June for my Wondermoms.ca Tips for Tweens Blog when they partnered with Dove. Being that it's DOVE SELF ESTEEM WEEKEND I thought it would be appropriate for a Re-Post
-------------------------------------

During the next few weeks the Wondermoms site is focusing on Dove. I admire their Real Beauty campaign, but it wasn't until a few weeks ago that it hit home.

I was getting ready to go out with my son. He came & stood beside me as I was doing my hair in the mirror & said "Mom why do you always have to do make up & hairstyles?" I said "It's just what I do to get ready for my day. Why don't you like it?" He replied with "No, then you don't look like you".

After my heart sank a little & followed by the Biggest I LOVE YOU hug ever, I thought of this video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iYhCn0jf46U

What do you think of it? Have you shown your kids? I did & I think you should too, just to see their reaction & talk about how it makes them feel.

2010-10-13T15:36:00.000-07:00

\

AND I'M REALLY EXCITED ABOUT IT!

How much can change in just ONE year

2010-09-28T04:13:00.000-07:00

It was a year ago this week that this happened http://thesunshineisin.blogspot.com/2009/10/good-morning-blogalicious-buddies-i.html
Although it just seemed like something new, going to an event in Toronto with people I had never met before, who knew it was about to spur a string of events that would change my life?

I love the city I live in. I try to show off all it has to offer, but when I expanded my group of friend to a wonderful network of women from all over Ontario it changed me. Don't get me wrong. I wasn't unhappy with my life. It just became better than it already was. I was always social so meeting new people was never an issue to me. The difference was I met SUPPORTIVE people, something that was quite a rarity in my life (I have a few here in KW & if you're reading this post, count yourself as one of them). I went from cheering on others to being cheered on myself. Instead of being known as "easily excitable Lisa" , things in my life were beginning to excite others as well. I went from being known as the Pizza Girl to the Tiara Girl (a change I welcomed whole-heartily).
In early 2010 I thought it would all break apart. Things were not well for me in a job I had spent more that 20 years at. After all the time I had given to them, I was told that sales were more important than my safety & the safety of my friends who worked with me. The sadness & hurt from that statement stuck with me, and it was these wonderful women who cheered me up (& of course the people in KW who actually did care about my safety-those people get my undying gratitude & friendship. I can never speak how much their friendship means to me, so I write it instead). Spring came & I was embarking a new chapter. I had changed Full Time jobs, and the Spring MeFest had arrived. Now our local event had all of these wonderful women from all over Ontario coming to support our show.

Since spring my life seems to be a whirlwind of events, wackiness & Tiaras (just the way I like it), and to think it all started basically one year ago with a "TweetUp".

Would You Date a STAYFREE Guy?

2010-09-05T09:47:00.000-07:00

I loved the @OldSpice guy ads everyone was buzzing about a month or so ago.

I'm wondering if Stayfree thinks that these will bring them the same hype?

I admit it. I couldn't keep a straight face the whole time. While you're watching this ad try to count how many times you laughed out loud.

It is infectious

So in addtion you can watch

So what's your choice the Vacuumer, the Cook or the Toy Maker

Day Trips = Major Fun with Minor Expense

2010-08-29T13:36:00.000-07:00

After getting some new(er) wheels I decided to pack a ton of fun into one week. Sometimes explanations are needed & sometimes it's just better to watch & learn.
Take a look at my family vacation highlighted in 5 mins of video
http://itsnoteasyraisingatween.blogspot.com/

Life on EZ STREET

2010-07-24T06:02:00.000-07:00

Diane & I aka @Those2Girls on twitter were invited to bring our Tiaras & our pals to EZ STREET ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE in Cambridge.
It was really easy to get to. From KW just take 401 & get off at HWY 24. Head right on 24 (Hespler Rd). You'll see an A&W on the right & they are tucked in behind it

We played Lazer Runner a GAZILLION times. We blasted foam balls at each other in the Balladium. Tried not to crash in the Flight Simulator & found out just how bad my golf swing is in the Golf Simulator.

Jessica was so sweet to give us a tour & show us how to make the most of our EZ Street Experience!

We said we'd tell all of our pals what a great time we had, so she said have them come see for themselves & GET 35% OFF!!!!!!!!!!!!

That's right, just mention that you follow Those2Girls on Twitter & Facebook or that you're a member of the Stuff To Do With Your Kids in Kitchener-Waterloo Group & you get a 35% discount!

A few pics are below. I have more posted here http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=463816&id=760270480&ref=mf

Made it My Own

2010-07-17T14:20:00.000-07:00

So as many of you know I change my hair whenever I can. In case you didn't you can see what I mean here

http://thesunshineisin.blogspot.com/2010/04/chameleon-that-is-me.html

So it was time again for a drastic change. I searched around Google Images under Celebrity Hairstyles & found this

Now I know that I don't look anything like (nor will I ever look anything like) Katie Holmes, but I liked it because it was different.
I knew it wouldn't be an exact copy, nor would I want it to be, as I don't ever want to look like anyone else. We consulted, coloured & cut & here I am

Herrles in a Tiara aka Meeting Tweeps!

2010-07-04T18:45:00.001-07:00

As you know I love meeting tweeps! Yesterday I had a great Twitter convo with @HerrlesMarket . We talked Corn, Princess Bride, Best Friends & TIARAS! (don't all of those things relate?)

During the conversation I was mentioned it might be fun to shop for corn in my Tiara (because I wear it 24/7 apparently-ha!) . The idea was welcomed & it was a done deal!

I got to meet @HerrlesMarket aka Trevor in person & guess what... He's is as AWESOME as he is on Twitter (I love when Twitter peeps are genuine!)

My next trip will involve Diane & I in Tiaras reminicing about the 1st time we hung out (right there at Herrles 5yrs ago) & realized we are an awesome pair of pals!

& yes The corn as always, was DELISH

**By the way when you go, make sure to tell the staff that you saw this online & Trevor can prove his point to all the people working there ;)

Oh yeah & follow him on twitter too http://twitter.com/HerrlesMarket

#EllenToKW aka EPIC CHICKEN THURSDAY

2010-06-27T08:01:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone!
As you know I'm actively involved in the effort to bring #EllenToKW
The background story is here http://thesunshineisin.blogspot.com/2010/05/ellentokw.html

So in order to get Ellen's attention Team #TiaraARMY (Diane, Linda, Beth & myself) went on a CHICKEN DANCE mission. It involved Facebook, Twitter & You Tube. Then the local radio, tv & newspaper got on board as well.

Now we just need to make sure the day's events reach Ellen DeGeneres.

Want to see what a fun day we had? Take a look

Now it wasn't all Traditional Chicken Dancing see what else happened

& to get an overall feel of what took place that day

It was so much fun! We are so glad the community came to support us! It hasn't been easy, like all things there's been "NAY" sayers so I keep my #TiaraARMY pals motivated with our new theme

Here's a quick vid of Linda's Thank-yous

& here's my list ...

(Pre Chicken Dance Prep Team)

Listed in order of apperance
Diane - for being my best pal & partaking in all of the craziness we cause
Linda - for coming up with all of this & letting me be apart of it all
Beth - for joining me on Twitter with all the @those2girls efforts
Alex - for saying YES to having his team perform for the event
Jenn - for lending me an dirndl
Sugar (Gay Isber) - for my Tiara
All my Facebook & Twitter Pals for helping me get the word out about our event

(During Chicken Dance)

All my pals that came & helped the effort by chicken dancing, videoing, carrying my stuff, ending up in random pics all over facebook & not being ashamed to be seem with me (that's the hardest part I think)

Listed alphabetically
Angel, Amy, Anthony, Carson, Deonne, Jacki, Melissa, Mallory, Nancy, Robbie & Terry

To everyone listed...
I wish I had bigger muscles so my hugs ment more & you truly know how much I appreciate all of you!

Okay so we're still keeping up with our attempts to get #EllenToKW

Keep watch at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ellen-Degeneres-for-Parade-Marshall-of-2010-K-W-Oktoberfest-Parade/121211941239514

as well as http://twitter.com/those2girls

& remember.....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDY2I5pni90&playnext_from=TL&videos=Xxkhj5QBfIY

that Ellen DeGeneres will respond to our #EllenToKW requests!

PS
Think you can help with our 6 Degrees to Ellen? Do you know a way to get our messages to her? Please leave a Comment with your email. We truly want to hear from her!

#EllenToKW

2010-05-27T17:21:00.000-07:00

Here in Kitchener Waterloo we're lucky enough to have Stephen Hawking coming to visit next month & The Queen is here the month after. So why is Kitchener Waterloo so eager to have Ellen DeGeneres arrive for Oktoberfest? Well just watch this (& see what we're working on below the video)

This spawned a Facebook group which hopes Ellen DeGeneres will come & be the Parade Marshall for the next KW Oktoberfest Parade (Thanksgiving Day in Canada).
Look at how many fans this page has already! http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ellen-Degeneres-for-Parade-Marshall-of-2010-K-W-Oktoberfest-Parade/121211941239514?ref=ts
I was able to message Administrator of the page we hope to collaborate efforts to make this happen!

Now the question is How Do We Get Her Attention?

You take it one step further & take it to TWITTER!

For those not on Twitter here's my SUPER EASY guide to Twitter http://thesunshineisin.blogspot.com/2009/11/twitter-for-pals-not-yet-on-twitter.html

Now to make sure we're all tweeting about the same thing make sure all of your posts have the #EllenToKW post in them
Here's mine from today

We're on a mission here in #Kitchener #Waterloo to get #EllenToKW who's going to RT 4 me?

The point of the hashtag it to make it searchable. If you click the hashtag in a tweet, all the other tweets with it will show up
***on the Twitter page you can put click it the #EllenToKW & then after they show up hit Save this search & then you can just click it on your side bar after that***

***on Tweetdeck a new column will show up & it will just keep listing tweets with that hashtag***

Once it catches on it will become a trending topic & then it basically becomes viral on twitter

So make sure you're following http://twitter.com/those2girls & get tweeting #EllenToKW
Want us to follow back? Just leave your twitter name in the comments section.

Chameleon that is me

2010-04-11T16:36:00.000-07:00

If you saw me Friday I looked like this (pic from last month but still same look)

On Saturday I looked like this (shorty on the left)

Would you recognize me?

Earth Hour Fail

2010-03-27T18:11:00.001-07:00

I finished up Earth Hour & this time around it was a bust!
Yes I turned off the hardrive, monitor, printer, tv, stereo etc.

So I almost complied.

You see my son has been home for the last few "lights out" events. We've played cards or made up a story in the past, but this time around he's at his Dad's. Actually I lied. He's with his Dad at the Billy Talent Concert (it's official my 10 yr old is now cooler than me).

Now what?

If I would have been smart I could have brought a quart of Ice Cream home & most likely be occupied with that for the better part of the hour, but like they say hindsight is 20/20.

So instead I turned on my little florescent tube in my kitchen & did the dishes. I read on twitter today that florescent bulbs emit less carbon gases than candles, so that must be true right?

So there's my confession. Am I an Earth Hour Fail?

Young Artists For Haiti

2010-03-12T23:53:00.000-08:00

I just saw this & it instantly gave me chills. Proud to be Canadian! You can also follow them on twitter http://twitter.com/yaforhaiti

This is a list of artists that participated & how you can support the cause
Young Artists For Haiti's version of K'Naan's 'Wavin' Flag' is now available on iTunes. Get Here:
http://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/wavin-flag-single/id360176492

Here is a full list of all the great artists who participated:

Knaan
Nelly Furtado
Avril Lavigne
Sam Roberts
Pierre Bouvier (Simple Plan)
Tyler Connolly (Theory Of A Deadman)
Kardinal Offishall
Jully Black
Josh Ramsay (Marianas Trench)
Jay Malinowski (Bedouin Soundclash)
Chin Injeti
Jacob Hoggard (Hedley)
Red 1
Lights
Derek Whibley (Sum 41)
Serena Ryder
Emily Haines (Metric)
James Shaw (Metric)
Hawksley Workman
Drake
Ima
Elisapie
Pierre Lapointe
Esthero
Corb Lund
Fefe Dobson
Jim Creegan (Barenaked Ladies)
Tom Cochrane
Kevin Parent
Lamar Ashe
Colin James
Nikki Yanofsky
Suzie McNeil
Stephan Moccio
Aoin Clarke
Kathleen Edwards
Jim Cuddy
Shiloh
Stacey McKitrick
Jessie Farrell
Colin MacDonald
Justin Nozuka
Hayley Sales
Matt Mays
City & Colour
Arkells
Pat Kordyback (Stereos)
Dave Faber
Brandon Lehti
The Canadian Tenors
Justin Bieber
Torquil Campbell (Stars)
Broken Social Scene

Mabel's Lables BlogHer Contest entry

2010-03-11T15:15:00.000-08:00

My entry to the Mabel's Labels BlogHer Search

How I came to be….. ME…..finally!

All my old report cards say “If only Lisa would talk less, she’d do much better in class”
That’s me & that’s why I love the internet! My ability to gab on & on is appreciated here. It took a while to figure this out. I was always a planner. Someone’s birthday, charity event etc, I was always the one to step up to the plate & put it together. Unfortunately all of my creativity would go unappreciated. I’d do all the planning & people cancelled.

I scaled back. No more celebrations. This ended up hurting myself. It was my creative outlet & I became Hum Drum.

One day I placed an online ad wondering if anyone would want to attend a friendship group.

I received lots of responses, it took off & I met my TRUE best friend. Someone with the same values, ambition, & gusto that I have.

We made so many connections that we created our own event. We used Facebook & Blogs to make contacts & create a buzz in our town. The contacts became vendors which then became our friends!

Then I discovered Twitter & found out that we can keep expanding our friends to other areas outside our fair city.

So the internet has helped me come into my own.

By the way there’s a storm a brewin’ that might wipe out the internet. So I’ll just mention this to the Twitter Dream Team.

@KathyBuckworth will drop a line to RIM (they won‘t let their company be left in the dust), @Unmarketing will use the Force (being a JEDI of twitter) & @YummyMummyClub will get 1000’s of Moms together (because Moms can fix anything). Don’t worry pals it will all be fine.

Help Me Out-What Colour Polish?

2010-03-06T08:43:00.000-08:00

So Bloggy Buddies...

I need your input.

Over the next couple weeks I have some BIG CHANGES happening!
No longer will I be the PIZZA GIRL (who am I kidding, I'll always be the Pizza Girl in spirit).

I'm slowly going to De-Pizzafy myself.

I'm going to do things that I could never do & am hoping for suggestions from YOU!

Being that I work with food I'm not allowed to wear Nail Polish. After next week that all changes.
No more pizza = beautiful nails!

My question of the week is WHAT COLOUR NAIL POLISH SHOULD I BUY?

You can let me know below, or tweet it to me @those2girls

It's also helpful if you can tell me where to buy it.

Thanks!

My Hands ARE SMALL, but I know they can still help

2010-01-26T08:43:00.000-08:00

This goes along with my post underneath for Haiti regarding how your little donations can still make a big impact

Jewel - Hands

Lyrics to Hands by Jewel

If I could tell the world just one thingIt would be that we're all OK

And not to worry 'cause worry is wastefulAnd useless in times like theseI won't be made uselessI won't be idle with despairI will gather myself around my faithFor light does the darkness most fearMy hands are small, I knowBut they're not yours, they are my ownBut they're not yours, they are my ownAnd I am never brokenPoverty stole your golden shoesIt didn't steal your laughterAnd heartache came to visit meBut I knew it wasn't ever afterWe'll fight, not out of spiteFor someone must stand up for what's right'Cause where there's a man who has no voiceThere ours shall go singingMy hands are small I knowBut they're not yours, they are my ownBut they're not yours, they are my ownI am never brokenIn the end only kindness mattersIn the end only kindness mattersI will get down on my knees, and I will prayI will get down on my knees, and I will prayI will get down on my knees, and I will prayMy hands are small I knowBut they're not yours, they are my ownBut they're not yours, they are my ownAnd I am never brokenMy hands are small I knowBut they're not yours, they are my ownBut they're not yours, they are my ownAnd I am never brokenWe are never brokenWe are God's eyesGod's handsGod's mindWe are God's eyesGod's handsGod's heartWe are God's eyesGod's handsGod's eyesWe are God's handsWe are God's hands

How Dollarama Helps Me, Help Haiti

2010-01-23T10:14:00.000-08:00

I feel the world finally learning to rally to help those in need.
I know there is so much more that can be done, but this is my contribution.
Dollarama Stuff
Yes you heard right stuff from Dollarama will help those in need.
Yesterday @Flourishflorals tweeted this link
http://mcc.org/kits/relief
Which had this info
--------------
MCC is asking for donations of 20,000 relief kits as part of its response to the Haiti earthquake. Thank you for joining this response. Relief kits provide valuable supplies to families traumatized by war and disasters. In recent years, kits have been sent to Iraq, Gaza, Bosnia, Serbia, Nepal, Mozambique, Indonesia and Honduras.

Contents (NEW items only)
4 large bars bath soap (leave in wrapping)
1 plastic bottle shampoo (380-710ml / 13-24oz; place bottle in a re-sealable plastic bag)
4 large bars of laundry soap (Some stores carry Fels Naptha, Sunlight or Zote brands; contact your local MCC warehouse with questions)
1 squeeze-tube toothpaste (minimum 130ml / 6oz; leave in box)
4 adult-size toothbrushes (leave in packaging)
4 new bath towels (medium weight, dark or bright colors)
2 wide-tooth combs(6 to 8in / 15 to 20cm)
1 fingernail clipper
1 box adhesive bandages (minimum 40, assorted)
1 package sanitary pads (18-24 thin maxi)

Place contents in a box or bag and deliver to one of the drop-off locations in Canada or the U.S. The kit will be re-packed in a new 5-gallon plastic pail with lid.
------------
Looking at the list I realized I can purchase a majority of it at Dollarama. So that's what I did!
I got everything except the laundry soap bars. They have them, but they are unwrapped, so I'll get some at the grocery store tomorrow.
I spent less than $20 for all of this.
I hope to drop it off early this week
(the site lists all the drop off locations)
So even when you think you're little donation is just a drop in the bucket, look how much my drop will provide!

YAY ME! & YAY FOR MY PALS!

2010-01-03T09:33:00.000-08:00

It's my first day off in 2010 (yes I did work on the 1st & 2nd of January-pizza never sleeps you know).
It's time to get down to blogging blissfulness!

Last week I mentioned I wasn't doing the whole Resolution thing, instead I'm tracking what I've accomplished. Find out why here

http://thesunshineisin.blogspot.com/2009/12/gathering-of-accomplishments.html

So here's a log of what I was able to do last year (by the way it's mostly from my blogs & my bad memory, so if I forgot something please let me know)

January 2009
2008 had ended on a great note. My best pal Diane & I had just hosted our 1st MeFest event & vendors were asking us to organize another one for the spring!

Also in January I started this blog
& tried my best to make it fun & interesting to all.

I read THE POWER OF NICE that I received the month before from a gift exchange. I loved the book & found out that there was a 2nd one coming out called THE POWER OF SMALL (which describes me perfectly on so many levels!) . I contacted the site & asked if it would be available in Canada. They weren't sure so they sent me a copy of it!

Not too much happened in February as we were in full swing for our 2nd MeFest

March 2009 I met Carol & learned a lot about blogging! She's one smart cookie!

Then April 2009 hit WITH A BANG! We hosted another successful MeFest. We started a Those2Girls blog & doing weekly postings for the http://stufftodowithyourkidsinkw.blogspot.com/

What was next TWITTER. Okay I can't say enough about how much I love twitter. I think I learned the power of twitter the night we helped @BoredMommy win the title of the Mammavation Mommy. Not quite what she expected, but that night so many women connected to help her gain her title.
AWESOME was the only way to describe that night.

So May 2009 was a lot of downtime (which really means learning to tweet)

June 2009 We started a cleaning challenge on the Those2Girls blog. I didn't accomplish as much as Diane did, but I did give it go.

You see I was too busy becoming an official YummyMummyClub member (2nd row at the bottom, pic on the right)

July 2009 was very rainy here in KW, but this was the best pic of the summer

In August I did an interview for Prospere Magazine featuring @Hullabaloo519

I also started writing a blog for parents of Tweens. Here you can see how my son made it in the newspaper

September 2009 We went to the Hockey Hall of Fame & everyone's favorite chuckle the LEGO post happened

What else happened that month? We got our Tiara pic! We started a mission to get Diane's daughter to #1 for a mall shopping spree thanks to our twitter & facebook friends & wrote an article for the YummyMummyClub

Along came October 2009 which currently holds the reigning BEST DAY EVER We had our 3rd (& very successful) MeFest. Also that day I got to meet a lot of my Yummy Mummy pals at Nursery School Musical. That was an amazing day!

Next up twitter was a buzz with everyone trying to win Tassimo machines. We were trying to get them for ourselves & each other. That's the best thing about twitter! We're all in this together.

I also wrote this http://www.mommyagogo.ca/index.cfm?pagePath=BABY_TALK/Archives/October_2009/Lasting_Power_in_A_Boy_s_World&id=16841

Guess what arrived in November? http://thesunshineisin.blogspot.com/2009/11/cheers-to-tassimo-hot-chocolate.html

& I got to meet another twitter pal @BusterRhinosBBQ & look what he brought me http://thesunshineisin.blogspot.com/2009/11/tweeting-meeting-making-dinner.html

December came & the idea came for this post (inspired by this post I wrote for AMotherWorld )

I thought it was time to kick back & think of all of my accomplishments & then this happened.... I'm now a monthly contributer to WonderMoms

But enough about me. Here's what's going on with my pals & what they've accomplished, about to accomplish &/or changing their outlook towards 2010

@JackiYo is about to try something new

@AmericanNanny is favouring revelations

@CocktailDeeva is going to give it the old college try

http://twitter.com/amotherworld is pondering the what ifs???

@1ofthose2girls is setting some goals

@NoFlashCards is doing what she loves most

What are you doing? I'd love to see your New Year's post & link it to this. Just leave a comment with your blog URL

Come celebrate with us!

Gathering of Accomplishments

2009-12-26T16:06:00.000-08:00

For the holidays I wrote an article on AMotherWorld about celebrating your accomplishments rather than making resolutions (it's the article on the right side of the page).

I'm hoping to make a list for what I've accomplished for 2009, but I don't want to just toot my own horn, I want to crank it up & celebrate everyone's accomplishments!

I'm hoping all the bloggers out there will write a post about all that they've accomplished this year & post the link to their post in the comments section of this blog.

Then next week I can compile them all & we can have a little party here on my blog.

So what made you proud of yourself this year?

Now I'm doing Blogging Giveaways!

2009-12-19T09:01:00.001-08:00

Hey there Holiday readers, hope you are well this holiday season!

Things are very exciting around my place! We're busy playing Squeeballs for Nintendo Wii & DS

This game is rated E10, which is perfect for my son!

It's a game about being a toy tester. As a player you must run these toys balls through a variety of challenges to see if they hold up under the Extreme playing situations.
The Squeeballs that pass the tests make it off their island & can go to the toy store.
It's truly a fun & silly game, which makes it perfect for family play.
There are several ways to play it. On our Wii we chose PARTY MODE so we could take turns playing the challenges on the Ladder. As you get better, more challenges are unlocked & added to the Ladder.
I don't know about the DS version yet, as my son won't let me get my hands on it (so I'm guessing that's a good thing).

Want to see why we're giggling all day with this game? Take a look at this short video http://www.squeeballs.com/#/see-us-in-action
Also on the site you can see other info about the game by clicking the buttons on the blender (yup you get to blend a Squeeball - too funny!)

I'm giving away a copy of Squeeballs for Wii & a separate copy of Squeeballs for DS over at my other blog
http://itsnoteasyraisingatween.blogspot.com/
the post is the same but at the bottom of that post is how to enter.

Hidden Mickey Tree

2009-11-23T13:30:00.000-08:00

How many Mickeys do you see on my tree?
Careful don't get Disney, I mean Dizzy!

Twitter for Pals not yet on Twitter

2009-11-15T11:50:00.000-08:00

I have a ton of my friends that just don't GET Twitter.
They know I love it, but it's something they just not sure how to use. "Isn't just status updates?" Is something I get asked quite often. It is for some, if that's what you want it to be, but if you want the true Twitter experience you need to get on & get tweeting!

It might be easier for you to bookmark this post, as it's a lot to take all in at once. Even better would be if you opened a second window & went back & forth between this post & the twitter page.

It's been almost a year since I got on so as a refresher I'm going to set up a new account so I remember all the steps.
So start by going to http://twitter.com
So click on Join
Now a new screen pops up. Type in your name, I used SushineIsIn because it's my blogs name, & my name is on other stuff for @those2girls on twitter.
For my Twitter name I went with
TweetsForMyPals
so it's easy to find
Next is the regular password & verification stuff
& create/submit.

Next page says find your friends, skip that by clicking on the blue twitter logo at the top of the screen

Okay now the twitter page shows up. It asks what you are doing. So go ahead & type something, but make it less than 140 characters.

That was all the easy part. Here we go with the REAL use of twitter.

Start by tweeting someone you know. Don't know anyone on twitter, well then start with ME!
1st off you need to put the "@" right beside their twitter name.
If you don't they won't see it.
I'm off to type
Hey @those2girls I'm trying to find you. See that there isn't a space beside the "@" & the "those2girls".
After you hit update, your status is moved down under the box. You can see that the @those2girls is now clickable.
That status just did 2 things for you. First you can click it & see the @those2girls page & click follow & 2nd you will be in the Mentions of @those2girls.

Mentions is our next step
So now that you've followed someone, click Home at the top right of your screen & you'll be back on your page.

Now on the right sidebar you will see under your twitter name with the "@" symbol beside it. When you click that you can see anyone who's mentioned you. If you want to reply to them just put your cursor over their tweet & a reply link shows up in the bottom right corner of their tweet. Now their Mention name show up again & you can continue on the converstation.

Now once again hit the HOME link at the top right of the page.

Now on twitter, any conversation is open. You are meant to jump in on stuff you see & add to the convo (just don't be arguementative, no on on twitter likes that).

If you wanted to tell something to someone privately you do it through a direct message. That is also listed in the right sidebar. There is one hitch though. The person you direct message needs to be a follower of yours as well. Once on the Direct Message page there is a drop down menu that show who you can direct message. Pick that persons name & then type out the message.

If someone Direct messages you it will be on the Direct Message page as well (there's a inbox & sent messages tab to pick from).

Now the biggie on Twitter
ReTweeting.....

If you want to pass on something you saw to all the people that follow you, you are welcome to do that, but give credit where credit is due.
The proper way is to put
RT @______ & type (or copy & paste) what they said.
So RT @those2girls ___________
This will then count as a tweet for you plus it will be in the mentions of the orginal tweeter.
If you have been ReTweeted, & see it in your mentions, you hit reply & thank the person for ReTweeting you.

Now that is the basics. You need to know them. Next to make it all easier download a program like TweetDeck.

It's easy enough to do. If you are downloading it & it says it requires ADOBE AIR, just say okay & it loads it as well.
It's been a while since TweetDeck got loaded on here, so I hope I don't miss any steps.

Once your screen shows up with TweetDeck it will look kind of confusing. If something shows up like TWEETDECK RECCOMENDS just "x" it out. You don't need it.
It should be a few colums
All Friends (which are the people you follow, including yourself)
Mentions (which shows who has mentioned you)
& Direct Messages.

(if those don't seem to be there, leave a comment with your email & we can try to figure it out together)

Now TweetDeck just made your tweeting, ReTweeting & Direct Messaging easier.

Once you see a friend's tweet, put your cursor over their pic. You'll see 4 little buttons show up ontop of their pic.
Top left is your reply button, top right is your direct message button & bottom left is your ReTweet button.

The bottom left is the hand button is THE BEST, it will Retweet the whole tweet (not retyping or copy & pasting involved).

Now sometimes when you ReTweet it's too long, feel free to shorten any tweet as long as it keeps true to it's orginal meaning. On top of the TweetDeck What are you doing posting bar, look to the top right & you will see more buttons, on the 2nd row, 2nd button in (beside the camera) you'll see a tweet shrink button. If you click this it will change some of the words to help your tweet fit. For example everywhere it says TO it will now be a 2, the but feel free to change other things yourself to shorten. You'll get used to it.
(or U'll gt used 2 it in twitter speak).

For more on how to properly ReTweet someone, please read this post by Scott Stratten of @unmarketing

http://www.un-marketing.com/blog/2009/10/27/dont-stick-it-in-their-mouth-how-to-retweet/

Together he & Erica Ehm of @YummyMummyClub put together a video called Twitter 101
http://www.yummymummyclub.ca/twitter_101
which got me started on twitter oh so many months ago

If you are on TweeDeck & want to see someone's twitter profile just click on their name & their pic & profile will show up big on the right side of the page. To get it back to regular view hit the little orange square near the top left, beside where it says Tweetdeck that's looks like a square piece of paper & a pen.
See that was easy!

These are great starting points for your twitter. Things like uploading pics etc, I'll let you do on your own.

Twitter Lists are another up & coming part of twitter, but I think I'll leave that for another post.
So remember to follow me @those2girls & let me know you read this post!

Tweeting, Meeting & Making Dinner!

2009-11-12T15:02:00.000-08:00

Guess who's Back? Back again? Twitter Blog is Back & I made a new Friend (sung in the style of Eminem)

This is both a blog & vlog post because I have a lot to cover!

As you know I love TWITTER. I love it so much! Did I mention I love Twitter?

So many great things have happened to me this year & most are because I'm on Twitter (that's another big post in itself).

This week I got to meet another one of my Twitter Pals FACE TO FACE.
Darryl who can be found @BusterRhinosBBQ or his website
http://www.busterrhinos.com

So what is a BUSTER RHINO? Well it's a great company/restaurant that cooks in the Southern Barbecque style.

He had mentioned that he was coming to KW & would anyone want to meet up? & since I'm all about meeting new people I was excited see him!
We had a great chat & he being the wonderful TWITTER he is (people on Twitter are all about sharing info & connecting for the most part)
brought me goodies! I wasn't sure what would be the best way to thank him other than this FULL CAPS ON THANK-YOU!!!!
So I did the next best thing I could & made a YouTube video about it

Congrats Darryl on helping me make a 10 minute dinner!

Cheers to Tassimo Hot Chocolate

2009-11-05T16:22:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone! My son is really stoked to be on a video & would love to see your comments!
Here we are making Tassimo Hot Chocolate....

My New Arrival & 1st VLOG

2009-11-03T22:40:00.000-08:00

Here's my 1st atempt at a VLOG & it's worth celebrating!
After watching take a look at the pic of all of my new stuff!
Christmas came early

I'll be sure to review all of this soon! Thanks to @TassimoCanada on Twitter

Free Mickey Mouse Ears for Me & FOR YOU!

2009-10-13T22:00:00.000-07:00

Want to win a FREE pair of Mickey Mouse ears (they say they'll ship them to both USA & CANADA)

It takes a couple of steps

1st go to the Facebook link below & join the group then come back here for part 2.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Destinations-in-Florida-Travel/49525614072

Now that you have joined you need to add a comment below that you joined *leave your Facebook name in the comment.

Once I get 10 people then I get the Free Mickey Ears & you can repost this on your blog & once you get 10 Friends you'll get Free Mickey Ears. Not sure how many pairs they are giving away.

Please remember to post that you joined through me. Then it's valid.
Thanks
Lisa
For more great tips visit
http://www.wearethatfamily.com/

Still McDonald & here's why...

2009-10-12T16:35:00.001-07:00

Today on twitter @YummyMummyClub asked
Why do brides give up their names when they marry? -->http://ow.ly/u2Zt Did you? Why - why not?

It's a link to an Oprah site on that subject.

I decided that I needed more than 140 Characters to answer it.

When my at that point boyfriend & I decided to move in together, my parents were full of DISAPPOINTMENT & DISAPPROVAL.

Being that we were both from Catholic families this was a BIG NO NO!

I was 19 & ready to leave home, but not yet ready to get married, but knew that marriage would be the step after that.

Still this did not go over well with my side of my family & I was basically shunned.

His family on the other hand were delighted that we were taking this step together.

After 2 years of living together we did get married. I was happy to take on the name of the family that had accepted me into their lives.

As they say, time heals all wounds & my family suddenly were okay with the situation (now that we were married, & in a Catholic church to butte!)

After being married for many years, situations changed & I am now divorced. Many wonder why I haven't gone back to my maiden name?

My answer to them is....

I want the same last name as my son. Who can argue with that?

(& as an added bonus, I still have a great relationship with his side of the family, so why mess with a good thing!)

My BlackBerry Envy is taken to new Heights!

2009-10-11T08:09:00.000-07:00

Welcome back all!

It's Thanksgiving weekend here in Canada & though you might want a ONE MONTH LATER UPDATE
Do you remember this post?
http://thesunshineisin.blogspot.com/2009/09/surprize-in-mail-today.html

Flash forward to today...
It's been one month & one day since I received my copy of
THE BLACKBERRY DIARIES written by the always wity Kathy Buckworth.

Truthfully it only took me two days to read the book. The problem was that those 2 days were in 2 different months. I'm sure Kathy will forgive my tardiness, as she knows I have a lot on the go (you know with being a twitter mummy & all).

I'd first like to let you know that my BlackBerry ENVY started way before this book. You see I live in Kitchener-Waterloo, home of THE BlackBerry & I work down the street from RIM (where they are developed), so I've had BlackBerry evny for about a decade. What this book did was take it to a whole new level!

Yes I still long for little handheld device that flashes, buzzes & rings, but enough on my CHRISTMAS WISH LIST (hint hint), here's my review of this Fantastic, Funny & Fabulous read.

I've learned from THE BLACKBERRY DIARIES that although Kathy's life & mine are much different, we as MOMS of a Modern World seem to have so many similarites.

Kathy is a mother of 4, who works at home & owns a BlackBerry.
Where as I am a mother of 1, who works in lots of places & I don't own a BlackBerry.

This didn't stop me from laughing at all these situations.

1. Raising kids
2. Working too many hours
3. Being distracted by email (& now Twitter is added to the mix)
4. Travelling with kids
5. Avoiding the gossiping neighbours
6. & ofcourse BEING A HOCKEY MOM

Truth be told, I find her way to handle these situations with grace & a little sarchasm commendable!

She takes everyday situations & makes them into monumental events of learning. You'll learn what to do to get out of the school bake sale, how to use punishment of your child as a means housekeeping & my fave how to pass off the wine stain on your blouse as jam!

Oh how I loved this funny romp through Modern Motherhood & I'm sure you will too!

What do I love the best about this book? That it still being written!
Yes it continues over at
http://www.blackberrydiaries.net/

Best Day Ever (currently)

2009-10-10T07:50:00.001-07:00

Good Morning Blogalicious Buddies!
I know it's been a bit since I sat & actually wrote something. You seen the past few months have been a whril-wind (is that how you spell that?)of excitement leading up to my newly deemed BEST DAY EVER! Now please note I've had lots of BEST DAY EVER events IE son being born, starting the SYS Group, Girl's Weekend etc. These events don't loose their BEST DAY EVER status when a new one arrives. Kind of like being Prime Minsiter or Presdient, you get to keep the title. Like I said one doesn't replace another in the line up, but which ever is the most recent is known as BEST DAY EVER (currently). Now back to the info. If you are a blog reader of mine, you know that I was gearing up to co-host the 3rd MeFest.

Along the way a 2nd event was to occur on the same day. Some of my twitter pals (which you may recognize below) decided that Saturday October 3rd would be a great day to meetup up at Nursery School Musical, a production that was written, produced and directed my by new twitter pal Racheal McCaig.

It was an opportunity to meet the women that I spoke to regularly since I got on Twitter (Thurs March 19/09 -luv that Tweetdeck keeps track of that for me!)

Well I figured the trip wouldn't be doable for me as it was the same day as MeFest. I usually clock about 2 hours sleep before MeFest & I don't think that bodes well for a trip on the 401. Then I saw that two of the vendors from MeFest Michelle Peer of Hullabaloo Party Planner for Children

and Jacki Yovanoff of Primerica,

were planning on attending. I mentioned that they must have forgot that MeFest was the same day, but these HARD CORE TWITTER FANS said they were going to the play. I did what any Yummy Mummy Twitter gal would do in that situation...... Asked if I could tag along. and as you can see

They said YES! Here's some pics from my BEST DAY EVER (currently) First the most Positive Pampering and Lifestyle show in KW MeFest - A Celebration of You!

Look Racheal came to MeFest even though it was closing night of our show. How great was that?

If you have 7 minutes you can put yourself in a good mood by watching the slide show (yes of course there's peppy music!)
Over at
http://mefest.blogspot.com/
Next road trip to see Nursery School Musical & after party at C'est What?

So there you have it, the MOST CURRENT Best Day Ever. I'm not sure how long it will reign supreme, as Those 2 Girls are heading back to Toronto for THE NATIONAL WOMEN'S SHOW/GIRLS WEEKEND on Oct 24th-25th and who know what's in store for us then.....

Yours in FUN TIMES
Lisa
PS Want to meetup up with us in Toronto? Leave a comment or send me at tweet @those2girls !

Gratitude Challenge Day 5

2009-09-26T00:17:00.000-07:00

Back at it for my blog reading buddies

Today I'm to make a list of all my blessings
I'm very afraid of the space this will require, because I am VERY thankful for things that others might find mundane.
I'm also writing this at 3am after working all day, so I hope I remember to cover everything. I decided to write the first 20 things that came to mind.
What does your 20 look like?

My son-you knew that would be #1
My best friend Diane, we're a duo what can in say?
SYS pals (there's a post somewhere on here about SYS)
MeFest (that's everywhere on here)
Family
Great health
Our home
Our dog
My jobs
My happiness, even if it drives others crazy
My computer
My vehicle
Camera
Social Media (Blogs, Twitter, Facebook, Forums) I love connecting
Ability to buy food/pay bills
Having fun
Freckles (took over 30 yrs, but I finally like them)
Vacationing (especially at Disney)
Great deal I find
Ideas that I have (even the wacky ones)

Gratitude Challenge Day 3 & 4

2009-09-24T20:21:00.001-07:00

Today I am very thankful that I feel much more confident & organized than yesterday.

The negative thing in my life that I am most thankful for, is not something, but someone. It makes me thankful to know that I do my best to treat people well & that I am strong enough to get past the mean mumblings that are always directed towards me.

What are you thankful for today?

Gratitude Challenge

2009-09-22T21:16:00.000-07:00

As I wind down from my 38th Birthday (yes I admit to my age), I am so surprized by the power of social media. Both people I know & people I have never met have wished me a Happy Birthday, via sites like Facebook & Twitter. Some might find it strange, but I think it is completely AWESOME!

I have taken the time to individually thank everyone of them, as they each took an extra bit of their day to let me know that they are thinking of me!

After I was on Twitter & saw this
http://www.gratitudechallenge.com/

I've started by reading the calendar

http://www.gratitudechallenge.com/downloads/gratitude-calendar.pdf

I've accepted the challenge & since I'm unable to print it out right now, I will go on to Day 2 Which is list YOUR ABC's of things that your are greatful for.

Here Goes
A Able to make my own decisions
B Boy that was Born on July 28th 1999
C Camera that I use to capture moments that then live on forever
D Diane my best pal (okay & Disney too)
E Everyone who makes me smile
F Foster (see B), Friends & Facebook
G Good things that happen everyday (you just need to look for them)
H House that I call Home
I Investing my time in things that I feel strongly about (but others may find weird or wacky)
J Jobs that I have. I love all of them
K Keep Positive
L Love
M MeFest & the Morgan Family
N New people that I connect with
O Online, I love it
P Pasta & Pretzels (not together, but both are my faves)
Q Quiet time, not that it's truly quiet, but just hanging out can be great
R Roxane my Sister-In Law that I see seldom, but think of often
S SYS
T Those2Girls, Toronto Trips, & Twitter
U Un-made bed that I hop into every night
V Vehicle that gets me to all the places I need & want to go
W Wanting for more, not more as in stuff, but learning, seeing, becoming etc
X My X stands as the Roman Numeral TEN, age of my son
Y Yummy Mummy Club & all the new pals I have made through it
Z ZZZZZZ the fact that I sleep well

This is my grateful alphabet. I'd love to see yours
For more hints & tips about pretty much anything visit
http://www.wearethatfamily.com/

Gratitude Challenge

Share This Widget

» Join the challenge

» Read participating blogs

tiny prints

My Fab Friend Gay Isber

2009-09-14T20:48:00.000-07:00

Hi my Blogalicious Buds!

Many of you have commented on my twitter pic & how much you love these tiaras.

They were made by my Toronto Pal (former KW resident) Gay Isber. She sent out this wonderful email tonight & though all of you would enjoy it too!

The Shopping Channel HERE I COME! Saturday, October 3rd
8am, Noon, 5pm and 8pm!

ALL jewels have been made in my studio by the loving hands of Jessica G from Kitchener plus Amanda and Elisa, new to the Sugar Factory. Almost 2000 necklaces from start to delivered in one month! Circle the date, clear off your credit cards, tell your friends and buy a few pieces.
You can watch it online, streamed live – http://www.theshoppingchannel.com/ book market now!

Now each necklace comes with a maple leaf and my name in brass. The new tags are even made with love from a family run company. Vintage beads and chain plus all of the good Swarovski crystals, semi precious stones, and pearls. “Vintage Treasures” is the name of my show! JOIN ME!

Jess really had her hands full as I had my gallbladder out and was in the hospital for five days smack in the middle of this. She did a wonderful job! THANKS Jess!

LOTS OF PRESS! Look for lots of Gay Isber Designs pieces on the RED Carpets for TIFF, too!
The new Miss Canada is wearing it. too!

At a private party at Holt’s last week, I got to meet my jewellery idol, Kenneth Jay Lane! Plus get an autographed book. He politely took my card.

THANKS to Lam for making it happen! Xoxo g

Baby Katie’s mother Lia Taylor shared these amazing photos – what a stunning child! Every Sugar Baby needs playthings! What eyes, oh my! Many kisses to her!

mhilary.camilleri@yahoo.ca is the photographer – and it turns out that I made a chandelier for her back at The Sugar Factory. Many thanks for sharing! Send me photos of you wearing my jewels and I will put it on my email blast!

A few pieces from my New Collection at The Rom for the Dead Sea Scrolls…..and for fall!

Go visit for a closer look!
More sneak peaks at my The Shopping Channel Vintage Treasures show!
So pretty!
New Alberta Sales Rep – Darcey-Lynn Marc
marc & associates incorporated
Ph 780 - 421-7714

dlmarc@shaw.ca I will be traveling out west in Oct. If you would like me to have a trunk show, please let me know! I would love to come meet everyone in Alberta and British Columbia – so let me know!

Only Accessories, in Toronto will be handling my high-end pieces! These are the ones you will spot on celebs and rock stars! If you need them to hook you up….

The Bay in Montreal is now carrying Sugar! Oh, La La!

RED FLAG!!!!!!!!!!!!!! RED FLAG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
RED FLAG!!!!!!!!!!!!!! RED FLAG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
RED FLAG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!RED FLAG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Party here Sept 25th – 7 – 11pm byob + nibbles, bring your friends or make new ones! The beads will be out to make bracelets, as always. This will be THE LAST penthouse party, as I relocate into a bigger space. So don’t miss it! It will be a great time to snap up “gay” treasures, as I will be clearing out things for the move!

My god son Derek was here for nine days with his work friend, Melanie from Houston. I let them help me package the 2000 pieces of jewels! It was great to have the extra hands! xoxog

Photographer Kim Tran took this snap of me when he was here documenting a rap video that was being shot at my place…..to see more of the photos check out his website! He is a wonderful photographer…..:)! plus is a master of trick photography!

http://www.pbase.com/kbtran/sugar

peaceandout! MORE SOON>>>>LOTS ON MY PLATE!

The Secret World of Gay Isber
&
Her Sugar Factory in the Sky

Fifty Five Charles Street West
Penthouse Two
Toronto, Ontario M5S 2W9
http://www.gayisber.com/
ggisber@sympatico.ca
w 416.515.1885/416.305.5225 c
Facebook Sugar Isber

Surprize in the Mail Today!

2009-09-09T16:47:00.000-07:00

Came home to find a big envelope with a Simpsons Character drawn on it (not sure why).

Hmmm I wonder

Lucky ME!

(this was my 1st Wordless Wednesday post, for more posts go to
http://www.5minutesformom.com/7383/wordless-wednesday-heading-to-grade-two/?

I uploaded our MeFest Video to YouTube

2009-09-06T15:55:00.000-07:00

It was easier than I thought

After this it's back to reality

2009-09-05T21:29:00.001-07:00

So as you can tell by the amount of updates I am on holidays this week.
I blogged about things that I don't mention too much
MEN, LOVE....
Well here's one more...
I wrote an article for The Yummy Mummy Club & they liked it
Take a look
http://yummymummyclub.ca/snack_cupboard_for_kids_lisa_mcdonald

Normally I am everyone else's cheerleader (which is also a role I love) & don't get to toot my own horn, but since I'm still on holidays I am going to toot away.

Then it's back to work, which means less time to go to fun places, also means less time on the computer, which means less time to write.

That's still okay. I love working. I love being the Working Mom type. It makes you appreciate your holidays that much more.

The Ice Queen Cometh

2009-09-05T17:26:00.001-07:00

As many of you who know me, know that I've been dubbed the ICE QUEEN at work.
1st it was to get me to react. You see I laugh at pretty much anything so when this was said I pretty much lost it (& not in a good way). Quickly I started to laugh at myself because they finally got the reaction from me that they find hard to find (Lisa in a moment of NOT laughing basically).
Now I embrace my "Ice Queen Status"
I am happy with the fact I have been single & NOT dating for many years now. I know it sounds weird, but I like it.
We all kid about the wall of ice surrounding my heart & really it's because right now I don't want to give my heart to just anyone. It's not to say that I'm closed off to Love. I'm just happy as I am & one day who knows.....

Fall 2009 SYS Schedule

2009-09-04T15:54:00.000-07:00

Here's what we're doing this fall for SYS. If you're a female looking for new pals in Kitchener Waterloo, & have Sundays free, then join in! Let me know if you are interested in attending.
Thanks
Lisa
fostermcdonald@rogers.com
--------------------

Hi SYS pals
Well fall has arrived & hope we can all connect again for SYS.

We have a few events this month that are different times than normal, so please take note of starting & ending times

I will send out reminders with maps each week & PLEASE respond whether or not you will be joining us that week.

Sunday Sept 13th
TIME CHANGE 10AM
Sept. 13 at the Labyrinth
Some of you may know Cindy who did the Thai Yoga Massage at MeFest.
We are going with her group to a farm with a Labyrinth. I thought it would be really cool to see it upclose. There is a potluck & a charge for this of $10 explained below
Cost is $10 which is being donated to farm where the Labyrinth is.
Time: 10 am till 4 pm.
I will get more details on where we are meeting up soon

Sunday Sept 20th
Again there is a Time Change
10am-- and running tentatively until about 4pm
We'll be going on a FREE tour of "green" homes in KW

Sunday Sept 27th
Mary Allen Studio Tour
FREE artists tour in Waterloo Neighbourhood
12:45pm should be fine

Saturday OCT 3RD (note not a Sunday )
MeFest !!!!!!!!!
Volunteer times are as follows
7am-11:30am, 8:30am-1pm & 12:30pm-5pm
Please email with what time slot works best for you

Sunday Oct 12
Thanksgiving Weekend
No SYS meeting

More listings will be added as speakers/events are confirmed.

Twitter Fun

2009-09-03T16:26:00.000-07:00

I know this is weird, 2 updates in one day on this blog, but hey I'm on Holidays!

I copied this from MY TWITTER PAL @BOREDmommy
http://mommymaria.wordpress.com/
-------------------
TWO WORDS
Posted by Maria in MeMeMommy. Tagged: meme. 3 Comments

I have no idea where I found this, but I thought it would be perfect for one of those days where I have no time to be really witty and/or wordy. This is one of those days. It’s supposed to be a one word meme challenge, but I’m changing it to two, because I can’t say anything with one word (even swearing requires at least two!!) Enjoy?

Here’s how it works: USE ONLY TWO WORDS for each answer!
If you like, copy and change the answers to suit you and pass it on.

1. Where is your cell phone? KITCHEN TABLE
2. Your hair? PONY TAIL

3. Your mother? GUILT PROVIDER
4. Your father? MOODY FELLA
5. Your favorite food? MONGOLLIAN GRILL
6. Your dream last night? DON'T REMEMBER
7. Your favorite drink? ENGLISH TOFFEE
8. Your dream/goal? EVENT PLANNER

9. What room are you in? TOY ROOM
10. Your hobby? INTERNET STUFF
11. Your fear? A LOT
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? FINANCIAL FREEDOM
13. Where were you last night? AT HOME
14. Something that you aren’t? INCREDIBLY SHY
15. Muffins? CHOCOLATE CHIP
16. Wish list item? A BLACKBERRY
17. Where did you grow up? KITCHENER WATERLOO
18. Last thing you did? FED CHILD
19. What are you wearing? MY PJ'S

20. Your TV? DRAKE& JOSH
21. Your pets? 1 DOG
22. Friends? SYS PALS
23. Your life? REALLY FUN
24. Your mood? HAPPY TIRED
25. Missing someone? NOT ME
26. Vehicle? DREADED MINIVAN
27. Something you’re not wearing? WARM SOCKS
28. Your favorite store? DISNEY OUTLET
29. Your favorite color? IT CHANGES
30. When was the last time you laughed? MOMENTS AGO
31. Last time you cried? DON'T KNOW
32. Your best friend? DIANE MORGAN
33. One place that I go to over and over? DISNEY WORLD
34. One person who emails me regularly? DIANE MORGAN
35. Favorite place to eat? MONGOLLIAN GRILL

Now I’m supposed to nomiate 5 people to do this as well and then pass it on, but instead of forcing you to do so, I thought I would let you decide if you want to do that. I am so NICE, right? If you do this meme, feel free to link back to me so that I can feel your love. HAVE FUN!

My Five for Girl Talk Thursday

2009-09-03T12:10:00.000-07:00

So over at Girl Talk Thursday

http://girltalkthursday.com/

We are choosing our TOP 5

Here's mine

#1 Tom Welling

I know he's young, but hey he's SUPERMAN!

#2 Ewan McGregor

Can sing, act & wield a LightSaber (in Star Wars)
He's the whole package!

#3 Viggo Mortesen

But really only in this movie, rugged good looks + accent= mmmm

#4 Johnny Depp

I think this is a pic that covers it all, from his 21 Jump Street all the way through to Jack Sparrow

#5 George Clooney

As Danny Ocean. He's the only fella with Grey Hair that I think is UBER SEXY

I'd also like to add that honourable mention goes to
Orlando Bloom, Eric Lindros, & Gerard Butler

The Mom Song

2009-09-02T05:48:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd share this with my Mom Pals for their busy WFMW

We all deserve a little laugh!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eIRkNK8xEHo

The Mom Song

Now you can search for more tips on
http://www.wearethatfamily.com/

How I learn about my computer

2009-08-31T19:14:00.000-07:00

Back to see my Bloggy Buddies!

Hey thanks for taking a look
Just wanted to let you know about a great group of people that I hang with once a month.
#ROWMKTG
Which stands for Region of Waterloo Marketing Group
We meet once a month at the Basil Cafe in Cambridge (YUMMMY).

I first started going a few months back. Since then we've gotten to know the owner of the Cafe & he now knows I like extra foam in my Chai Tea Latte.

The service is great & the food is amazing, but what's more amazing than that?
Well it would be my new Internet Marketing pals!

When we (myself & Diane over at the http://www.wheredoigetstarted.blogspot.com/ blog ) 1st went, we weren't sure what if we would fit in as we aren't techy.
As always I like to be "the sponge" & take in all kinds of new info.
We thought we'd learn new ways to help promote MeFest (shameless self promotion of the http://www.mefest.blogspot.com/ event)
BOY did we ever learn a lot!
Carol & Melanie are so approachable & put things into terms that newbies like me can understand.
They are a great Mother/Daughter team & are so knowledgeable!
Want to know what surprized me? They were interested in knowing about Facebook & eventually Twitter since I had just stumbled upon that at the time as well.
It's so great to learn & share info between each other.
That's why I always look forward to going.
If you're on twitter here's the @'s of some of the #ROWMKTG members.
@those2girls (Diane & myself) also @hullabaloo519 @TorontoCarol @JackiYo & @WendyHoomo
I know it sounds like an early #FollowFriday to most tweeps out there, but if you are in the Cambridge Ont area on Monday Sept 21st we'd love to meet you there!

My BITCH List Online

2009-08-17T18:02:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone
I know that the title of this post is NOT SO SUNNY, but it is something I need to do.
I got the idea from Mandy, who was in the Spring MeFest, over at HerHappyHighness. Here's her a link to her explanation of the Bitch List

http://herhappyhighness.blogspot.com/2009/08/bitch-list.html

Basically it's a list of things that you put off for one reason or another. They are things you need to do, but for whatever reason procrastinate.

My friend Diane over at
http://wheredoigetstarted.blogspot.com/

put it best when she said it's best to empty these nagging things out of your brain, because you have enough in there already.

Yes I think that they both are on to something.
Now as you know I spend a lot of time online (& not so much on my house), so I thought if I posted this list online & can add to it as needed I'd see these small task & do them.

Right now we have MeFest right around the corner (less than 2 months away) so I need my head & straight & keep my cool when surprizes arise.
I'm starting my list on a Monday & hope by Sunday I can get a few checked off.

If you think this is a great idea as well, please post your list on your blog & list your blog in my comment section. I'd be happy to cheer you on with your list too

(Updated for September, everything I got done, I changed to red)

Online MeFest Posting

Update ALL of my blogs

Pay house insurance that is due at the end of the month

Change all burnt out light bulbs

Put pillowcases on new pillows (yup bought new ones & haven't used them yet)

Clear desk

Re-read Hockey Day camp schedule for son

Find out when National Woman's Show is in Toronto

Find hotel for when we go to NWS in TO

Put new songs on iPod

Find out how to use all the settings on my Canon camera

Try on all the items I bought for my MeFest outfit together to see if it looks good

Take boxes of donateables to Salvation Army store

Start on the fall SYS schedule

Start on volunteer schedule for MeFest

See about snow removal for the winter

Clear unused toys from backyard

Get a new kitchen phone

Get son new pants for a wedding we are attending this month

Finish Christmas shopping (yes something that I am ahead of the game on)

Buy bags for Central Vac

Make dentist appointment for myself
Pay bills

That is what I came up with so far

What's on your list?

& for other great tips visit

http://www.wearethatfamily.com/

My Dancing Cloud

2009-08-10T18:54:00.000-07:00

Tonight is the 1st great SUMMER night her in KW.
I had stepped out of the Superstore when I thought this is just like a September night in Disney (my FAVE place & my FAVE time of year to go). It was 8:45pm & the weather was perfect, not hot, not cold & as Goldilocks would say it was JUUUUUUUUST Right!
Yes September nights at Disney, on my way to my FAVE Disney show FANTASMIC! I love that show it's spectacular.
But then reality stepped in & I was back at the shopping centre parking lot. Too bad, no Disney memories around here, until I looked up. I saw a cloud that looked like a person dancing. Someone somewhere knew that I needed to see something spectacular at home too.
I quickly grabbed my camera & took a pic. As soon as I did the whole cloud turned red & then dispersed.
Can you see the dancing cloud?

See how it`s really red near the bottom, well after I snapped the photo the whole cloud image turned that colour & then dispersed.
I was so amazed!
It was FANTASMIC!

Girl Talk Thursday

2009-08-05T20:34:00.000-07:00

I'm new to Girl Talk Thursday so I hope I do it write.
This week is about songs that are meaningfull to you.

My Fave's are
This Woman's Work by Kate Bush
The lyrics hit me when I first saw this movie as a teenager, but it's been an anthem for me since I became an adult

Winter by Tori Amos
This is the best video version I can find of the song, but I truly just love the orginal audio for it.
About how life changes, but don't let it change you

Come What May from Moulin Rouge
Reminds me what True love is still out there somewhere
http://www.imeem.com/mariosilva/music/MBFYQ2F7/nicole-kidman-and-ewan-mcgregor-come-what-may-ost-moulin-ro/

& my all time Fave MOVIE
The Princess Bride
http://www.imeem.com/sokai/music/eHF1JpPb/mark-knopfler-storybook-love

Summer is about to hit!

2009-07-31T20:28:00.001-07:00

For those of you who read my post about earlier this week, you knew we had planned on going to Bingemans.
It wasn't the warmest day, but we were determined.
Well when we pulled up half an hour after it opened, I felt like Clark Griswold entering the parking lot at Wally World (National Lampoon's Vacation - now you get it right?).
The parking lot was empty & none of the water areas were running.
Well that doesn't stop little old me! We hopped out of the Blue Beast (aka Mini-Van) & entered the Funworx building. The attendant then tells us that a bird hit a wire (que the Aaron Neville) & knocked out the power 2 hours earlier. Apparently they were working on it.
We waited a bit (more families showed up) & a manager came & said that we could walk down the hill & play mini gold while we wait. Before we went I spoke with the attendant about the Ticket Opps situation (see earlier post), she couldn't believe it & said that Ticket Opps has the wrong info. After that we were about to head to the mini golf (as a bunch of others had) & all of a sudden all of the power came one.
Guess what? We were 2nd into the waterpark & 1st at the Splash Pad. My son had it all to himself for about 15 mins.
Summer truly did hit! Don't believe me yet? Take a look & click the pic below.

Here's to keeping it Sunny!
Lisa

Help me rid myself of my Fiasco

2009-07-30T11:57:00.000-07:00

Hey Sunshine Followers

You could help me win $15,000 toward a new IKEA space. All you have to do is vote for my entry. The more votes I get, the better chance I have to win. Just follow the link below, click VOTE and I'll be one step closer to winning this much needed makeover.

Here's where you'll find my space: http://www.anyspacecanbebeautiful.ca/index.php?spaceID=648

Thank you for your help.

Lisa McDonald