Tuesday, March 31, 2015

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: WIN A TRIP TO LOS ANGELES, $1000 CASH + BURT'S BEE...

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: WIN A TRIP TO LOS ANGELES, $1000 CASH + BURT'S BEE...: The first 5,000 who register for the Burt’s Bees Sweepstakes will receive a Free sample of Burt’s Bees Renewal Serum. Enter the Burt’s Bees...

WIN A TRIP TO LOS ANGELES, $1000 CASH + BURT'S BEES PRODUCTS

The first 5,000 who register for the Burt’s Bees Sweepstakes will receive a Free sample of Burt’s Bees Renewal Serum. Enter the Burt’s Bees 28-Day Face Cleanse Sweepstakes for a chance to win a trip for two to Los Angeles, $1,000 spending money, and Burt’s Bees products.  Must be a resident of the US and 18 + years or older to enter.  Deadline to enter is June 1, 2015 at 11:59pm (ET), and there is one entry per person.

Website Entry       Easy Entry

One (1) Grand Prize: A trip for two to Los Angeles, CA. Trip package includes round trip, coach-class air transportation for two from a major airport near winner’s home to Los Angeles, CA; two nights accommodations (single room, double occupancy); a cooking class with Kimberly Snyder for two; a yoga session with Kimberly Snyder for two; a visit to Glow Bio with Kimberly Snyder for two; ground transportation to and from destination airport and hotel; winner and travel companion will each receive one Renewal Refining Cleanser, one Renewal Firming Day Lotion, one Renewal Firming Night Cream, one Renewal Smoothing Eye Cream, and one Renewal Intensive Firming Serum; $1,000 spending money; and travel agent services. WORTH: $6,155

Five (5) First Prizes: Six sets of Burt’s Bees products from the Renewal product line which includes Renewal Refining Cleanser, Renewal Firming Day Lotion, Renewal Firming Night Cream, Renewal Smoothing Eye Cream, and Renewal Intensive Firming Serum. Each First Prize winner will also receive free product vouchers for six Glow Bio juices or smoothies. Terms and conditions of vouchers apply. WORTH: $660
Five (5) Second Pries: One set of Burt’s Bees products from the Renewal product line which includes Renewal Refining Cleanser, Renewal Firming Day Lotion, Renewal Firming Night Cream, Renewal Smoothing Eye Cream, and Renewal Intensive Firming Serum. Each Second Prize winner will also receive an autographed copy of the Kim Snyder book, and one VitaMix Blender. WORTH: $499.99

Five (5) Third Prizes: One Truth Necklace and one Full Size Renewal Firming Serum. WORTH: $109.95

Good Luck!

Thanks Sweeties Sweeps


Monday, March 30, 2015

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: VANILLA LAVENDER SCENTED CANDLE REVIEW

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: VANILLA LAVENDER SCENTED CANDLE REVIEW: As a lover of scents, visitors often compliment me on the way our home smells.  Oil burners, candles and plug-ins are high on my list of ...

VANILLA LAVENDER SCENTED CANDLE REVIEW


As a lover of scents, visitors often compliment me on the way our home smells.  Oil burners, candles and plug-ins are high on my list of purchases to ensure this effect consistently.

Recently, I received a 4 Oz. Jar of Lavender Vanilla to review, and all thoughts are 100% my own.  


The first thing anyone will notice right away upon picking up the jar BEFORE even taking off the top, is the highly fragranced aroma.  I didn't know what it was, but it smelled absolutely lovely.  Then you see that's in a clear plain jar with no embellishments, making it easy to see the color, and little flecks of vanilla beans were actually on the bottom,  making it very unique.


Once the jar was opened, I was surprised by the marble/crystal texture because the candles I'd seen in the past displayed oil in the bottom, and it smelled amazing. When using 100% Palm Wax, it is poured in layers at a lower temperature, so this technique provides the special texture.  It is also non-toxic, has a natural wick and burns cleaner to eliminate soot buildup seen in regular candles.  Because the texture is harder than other candles, they may be used outside and won't melt in the summer heat, which is an extra bonus now that we're moving into warmer weather.


Living in a two-story home, it's rare to find one candle that will provide a strong scent both up and downstairs, but this one does it after about 32 minutes of burning, and the wick stayed brightly lit.  A friend visited the other day didn't notice the candle in the living room, as she headed to the bathroom upstairs.  When she came back down, she told me she looked everywhere trying to find out what smelled so good with no luck, and I proudly pointed to the candle right in front of her, and she was shocked!  


With all of these neat benefits, you would think the candle would be super expensive, but it's not.   The 4 ounce glass container is just $8.95, and the 8 ounce version is $12.95.  If you'd like to try a sample, pay only $2.95! 


If interested, here's the link to get this scent or others, and even better, all shipping is FREE!


Right now, feel free to click on this link to order your candle. If you're interested in the sample or 4 oz. size, please e-mail me directly.  Otherwise, the 8 oz version may be clicked on now for prompt ordering.













IN THE KNOW WITH RO: FREE BOOKS FOR BOOK CLUBS

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: FREE BOOKS FOR BOOK CLUBS:       Free Books from Random House Reader’s Circle Are you a member of a book club or know someone who is? Here's a great opportunity ...

FREE BOOKS FOR BOOK CLUBS

     Free Books from Random House Reader’s Circle

Are you a member of a book club or know someone who is? Here's a great opportunity to register your book club with Random House Reader’s Circle to receive FREE books occasionally.  This offer is only available for brief period, so sign-up today!


Thanks to Wendi from  Freebie Blogger!

Sunday, March 29, 2015

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: $200 UNEXPECTED CASH SURPRISE IN THE MAIL

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: $200 UNEXPECTED CASH SURPRISE IN THE MAIL: How would you like to open your mail one day and see not only a special message, but a check for $200? That's what happened to 180 let...

$200 UNEXPECTED CASH SURPRISE IN THE MAIL

How would you like to open your mail one day and see not only a special message, but a check for $200?

That's what happened to 180 lettered basketball players from the University of North Carolina! Hall of Fame Coach Dean Smith, who died on February 7, 2015, wanted to show his appreciation to his team upon his death with this special gift, asking them to enjoy dinner.

I'm not a college basketball fan,(sorry-lol) but I couldn't help sharing this amazing news. What a wonderful Random Act of Kindness.  We never know what unexpected prizes may show up in our mailbox, our front door, at the store, or anywhere else when we least expect it.

Keep the faith!

Hugs...

NC JEWELRY APPRAISAL

If you're interested in having your jewelry evaluated for upcoming auctions in New York, you're invited to schedule a private appointment with Doyle New York - Auctioneers & Appraisers of Fine Estates & Collections.

A representative will be available in Charlotte, NC on April 10, 2015. Please contact Hillary Pitts at 704-582-2258 or by email at:


DoyleNC@Doyle.com

Friday, March 27, 2015

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: IRISH MINT BROWNIES

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: IRISH MINT BROWNIES: Ingredients 1 cup butter, cubed   4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped 4 eggs 2 cups sugar   2 teaspoons van...

IRISH MINT BROWNIES

Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter, cubed
  •  4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 cups sugar
  •  2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  •  1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (6 ounces) dark chocolate chips or semisweet chocolate chips
  •  1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  •  FILLING:
  •  4 ounces white baking chocolate, chopped
  • 1/4 cup refrigerated Irish creme nondairy creamer
  •  1 cup heavy whipping cream
  •  15 mint Andes candies, chopped
    (Optional)
  •  ICING:
  •  12 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
  •  1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  •  Mint Andes candies, halved, optional

Directions

  1. In a microwave, melt butter and bittersweet chocolate; stir until smooth. Cool slightly. In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar and vanilla. Stir in chocolate mixture. Gradually add flour until blended. Stir in chips and walnuts.
  2. Spread into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking pan. Bake at 350° for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean (do not overbake). Cool on a wire rack.
  3. In a microwave, melt white chocolate with creamer; stir until smooth. Transfer to a small bowl. Refrigerate for 30-40 minutes or until chilled.
  4. In another small bowl, beat cream until soft peaks form; fold into white chocolate mixture. Beat on medium speed until stiff peaks form, about 4 minutes. Fold in chopped candies. Spread over brownies. Cover and refrigerate.
  5. In a small saucepan, combine bittersweet chocolate and cream. Cook and stir over low heat until chocolate is melted and smooth; remove from the heat. Stir in butter until melted. Cool to room temperature. Carefully spread over filling. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until icing is set. Cut into bars. Garnish with additional candies if desired. Store in the refrigerator. Yield: 2-1/2 dozen.
Enjoy with friends!

Recipe from: Taste of Home


Thursday, March 26, 2015

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: WIN A VIP TRIP TO NASHVILLE, MEET JEFF GORDON & A ...

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: WIN A VIP TRIP TO NASHVILLE, MEET JEFF GORDON & A ...: If you're 21 years or older and a resident of the US, go ahead and enter the Win the 2015 Chevrolet SS Sweepstakes for a chance to enjo...

WIN A VIP TRIP TO NASHVILLE, MEET JEFF GORDON & A 2015 CHEVROLET SS CAR

If you're 21 years or older and a resident of the US, go ahead and enter the Win the 2015 Chevrolet SS Sweepstakes for a chance to enjoy the experience of a lifetime with the Chevy 2015 Ultimate Country Music and NASCAR week! Along with the car, the winner and a guest will receive a VIP trip to Nashville for the CMA Awards. After that, head to the races at Texas Motor Speedway to watch the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and meet Jeff Gordon.

This is a one time entry that expires on May 22, 2015 at 11:59pm (ET)

Prize details are listed below:


One (1) Grand Prize: A 2015 Chevrolet SS 4dr Sedan, and a trip to attend the 2015 CMA Awards, and tickets to the NASCAR race at the Texas Motor Speedway; 2015 Chevrolet SS 4 Door Sedan, worth $49,440. Administrator will determine all features of vehicle including,but not limited to the color of exterior and interior and all other features or upgrades. Winner must be a licensed driver and will be required to provide proof of insurance at time of delivery. Winner is responsible for title, license, registration, dealer preparation costs, auto insurance and other fees associated with prize. Winner must take delivery of prize from the automobile dealership designated by Administrator. The 2015 Chevrolet SS 4 Door Sedan will coincide with when this model goes into production. A trip for two to attend the 2015 CMA Awards (held on November 4, 2015; date subject to change) in Nashville, TN. Trip package includes round trip, coach-class air transportation for two from a major airport near winner’s home to a major commercial airport near Nashville, TN for three days and two nights accommodations at a hotel determined by Administrator in its sole discretion (single room, double occupancy); two tickets to the CMA Awards; and rental car for three days; $500 spending money; round trip, coach class air transportation for two from Nashville, TN to Dallas, TX; four nights accommodations (single room, double occupancy); two tickets to the NASCAR race at the Texas Motor Speedway (held on November 8, 2015; date subject to change; seating determined by Sponsor in its sole discretion); a meet and greet with Jeff Gordon before the race; and $375 allowance for a rental car in Dallas. Cost: $7,335 (Total Cost of this Grand Prize: $56,775 )
 
 Good Luck!

Hugs to Sweeties Sweeps!

Tuesday, March 24, 2015

WALT DISNEY WORLD MAGICAL SWEEPSTAKES TRIP

If you're a resident of Canada or the US, and 21 years or older, enter for the chance to win your magical  experience for four (4) at Walt Disney World Resort from The Food Network Magical Sweepstakes.
There's one entry per person, and entries must be made no later than May 20, 2015 at 11:59pm (ET)
Full prize details are listed below.


One (1) Grand Prize- A trip for four to the Walt Disney World® Resort, which will include: four round trip coach airfares between the major gateway airport closest to Winner’s residence and the Orlando International Airport (provided, however, if Winner resides within 250 miles of the Walt Disney World® Resort, airfare will not be provided and no additional compensation will be provided), four round trip ground transfers between the Orlando International Airport and the Walt Disney World® Resort via Disney’s Magical Express Service (provided, however, if Winner resides within 250 miles of the Walt Disney World® Resort, ground transfers will not be provided and no additional compensation will be provided), room accommodations consisting of one standard room (with a maximum of four persons per room) for four nights at a hotel at the Walt Disney World®



 
Resort selected by Sponsor, four 5-Day Magic Your Way Tickets with Park Hopper® Option, $500 Disney Gift Card, one Welcome Basket in Winner’s hotel room at the Walt Disney World® Resort, one Disney Character Dining experience for four persons; a Disney gift card will be provided to cover the expense of this Disney Character Dining experience, subject to restrictions), and VIP viewing for one Disney Theme Park parade or show for four persons, selected by Sponsor. Hotel accommodations and airfare are at Sponsor’s discretion. Estimated Cost of Prize is  $6,215.64

Thanks to Sweeties Sweeps!

Monday, March 23, 2015

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: REVIEWS - Books & Products

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: REVIEWS - Books & Products:         Expert Brow Shaping Tweezers Provided by Bella Eleganze by  Bella Eleganze The other day, A...

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: This is great information and speaks directly to what happens during gaslighting, coping with narcissists and dealing with emotional ab...

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: FREEBIES

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: FREEBIES: The most useful item my husband ever purchased for me had to be the crockpot!  I can stick something in that thing and hang out in boo...

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: WHICH IS BETTER - THE NOVEL OR THE MOVIE?

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: WHICH IS BETTER - THE NOVEL OR THE MOVIE?: Most of the time, dang it, I had no idea a novel even existed, until AFTER I saw it in a movie theater. To make matters worse, I have the a...

WHICH IS BETTER - THE NOVEL OR THE MOVIE?

Most of the time, dang it, I had no idea a novel even existed, until AFTER I saw it in a movie theater. To make matters worse, I have the audacity to not read the book for comparison, because I'm afraid either the movie or the book just won't measure up. YIKES!

This has happened habitually and includes novels written by, J.K. Rowling,  Nicholas Sparks, Nora Roberts, Mary Higgins Clark, Danielle Steele, Jodi Picoult, Nicholas Sparks, and Debbie Macomber to name a few. 

The only exception to my own crazy rule (and the reason I no longer read a novel, then watch the movie) has been with Robert Ludlum, who created Jason Bourne in Bourne Identity, Bourne Supremacy and Bourne Ultimatum.  The Bourne Legacy and the other 6 books in the series were actually written by Eric Van Lustbader because Mr. Ludlum passed away in March 2001.

So when people tell me, "I read the book, and the movie was better", I will usually say that the book was better, because it can go into more details.  But there is no denying the visual action, or love story on the screen, even if it doesn't quite match the plot of the novel.

I have no idea of  the necessary criteria to have a book adapted into a movie on Lifetime, Hallmark or the cinema for our viewing pleasure, but as a fan of the romance genre, I don't mind checking out a good cowboy love story.


I've got to stay up to date by continuing to watch this incredible new installment of the Hunger Games.

Recently watched this movie and thought it was really unique and intense, so I can't wait to find out what new obstacles these kids must hurdle this time around. Whew!  





As much as some watching their favorite story line played out in the theater, there are just some occasions where a novel should stay forever immortalized in book form only. In fact, even some authors may not like the idea of having their story put on the big screen.

Below is a direct quote from an article in Mental Floss that actually addresses this scenario.  By the way, this is yet another example of me not knowing the book actually came BEFORE this phenomenal Oscar winning movie. (lol)


 Note to filmmakers: don’t anger the author of the book before the sequel has been written. Unhappy with the way Hollywood treated Forrest Gump by omitting plot points and sanitizing some of the language and sex, author Winston Groom started its sequel with the lines, "Don't never let nobody make a movie of your life's story,” and "Whether they get it right or wrong, it don't matter." You can’t blame Groom for being mad: he sued for the 3% net profits his contract promised him, which he hadn't received because producers claimed that by the time they took out production costs and advertising and promotional costs, the movie didn’t turn a profit. To add insult to injury, Groom wasn’t mentioned in any of the six Academy Award acceptance speeches given by various cast and crew members of Forrest Gump.  - Stacy Conrad from Mental Floss

For the record, I have a zillion suggestions of books from my favorite authors that should be made into movies, and I bet you do too.  What do you think?

Sunday, March 22, 2015

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: NEWS YOU CAN USE

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: NEWS YOU CAN USE: A to Z Blogging Challenge 2015 Anna Cade over at  http://www.herdingcats-burningsoup.com/ has issued her annual challenge to join the ...

Saturday, March 21, 2015

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: OBSERVATIONS

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: OBSERVATIONS:   I'm not really a fan of wrestling, but my husband watches it every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Yikes!  As you can...

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: CITRUS-MINT BABY CARROTS

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: CITRUS-MINT BABY CARROTS: This recipe is super simple to make, and you won't have to worry any unwanted extra calories. INGREDIENTS 2 Tbs. Minced Onions 2 T...

CITRUS-MINT BABY CARROTS

This recipe is super simple to make, and you won't have to worry any unwanted extra calories.



INGREDIENTS
2 Tbs. Minced Onions
2 Tbs. Butter
1 Lb. Baby Carrots with the tops on, peeled
1/2 Cup Orange Juice
1/2 Cup Chicken Broth
1 Tsp Mint, or 2 Sprigs Fresh Mint, minced

DIRECTIONS
In a pan over medium heat, cook the onions in butter for about 2 minutes, or until tender, stirring. Add in the carrots, orange juice and broth; cover.  Cook 5 minutes, or until the carrots are tender. Using a slotted spoon, remove the carrots and set aside.

Add the mint to the pan.  Cook 5 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half, then return the carrots to the pan.  Cook about a minute, or until heated, stirring to coat.  Season with salt and pepper to taste.


You're ready to serve!

Friday, March 20, 2015

FREE Activities at Barnes & Noble for the Kids - March 21


          Free Storytime & Activities at Barnes & Noble 


If you're looking for something different to do with the kids tomorrow, visit a participating Barnes & Noble at 11 AM for story time and activities featuring Edmund UnravelsClick here for more information and to find a location near you.
Thanks to Freebieblogger!

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: GETTING PAID FOR READING OR DOING PRODUCT REVIEWS

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: GETTING PAID FOR READING OR DOING PRODUCT REVIEWS: As book nerds, we love the opportunity to read the work of authors we know, and get excited to meet new writers, as well.  So visiting sites...

GETTING PAID FOR READING OR DOING PRODUCT REVIEWS

As book nerds, we love the opportunity to read the work of authors we know, and get excited to meet new writers, as well.  So visiting sites that allow us to do reviews in exchange for FREE books is phenomenal.

Still, getting cash isn't bad either, so if you'd like to be paid for reading various genres of books, check out the careers section of Kirkus Reviews:  https://www.kirkusreviews.com 

If you have books you've read and haven't reviewed somewhere else,  a product in your home that you can't stop talking about, or a movie you watched that kept you on the edge of your seat, why not get paid for giving your honest opinion?  There are hundreds of items to choose from at: http://www.reviewstream.com/reviews. Rates can be $10.31 or more per review.  It's easy to find out how much you can earn by providing your e-mail, then clicking on the type of review you'd like to turn in.

Stay tuned for more ways to make a little extra spending money in upcoming blogs.


Thursday, March 19, 2015

$16,000 OLYMPIC TRIP

If you are a resident of the United States, 18 years or older, go ahead and enter for the chance to win a a fabulous trip for you and one (1)  guest to attend the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro! There is one (1) entry per person and ends on April 4, 2015 at 11:59pm (PT). Prizes to be won are listed below.


One (1) Grand Prize:Grand Prize: A trip for the winner and his/her guest to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on or about August 16-22, 2016, to attend the Olympic Summer Games. The prize consists of: round trip economy class airfare for the winner and one guest departing from a major international airport near the winner’s residence (within the 50 United States or the District of Columbia) and arriving at an airport in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Six (6) nights standard hotel accommodations for the winner and his/her guest (single room, double occupancy) at a Rio de Janeiro area hotel; Round trip ground transportation for the winner and his/her guest to/from Airport and Hotel; A minimum of two tickets for the winner and his/her guest to attend an Olympic event; Daily breakfast for winner and guest at the hotel while on trip; The opportunity for winner and guest to attend a dinner party at the hotel for one night; A Rio de Janeiro tour for winner and guest, and An Unbroken Blu-ray Combo Pack and a copy of the Unbroken book for winner only. Estimate cost of this prize: $16,695.98

Ten (10) First Prizes: An Unbroken Blu-ray Combo Pack and a copy of the Unbroken book. ARV: $50.98

Thanks to Sweeties Sweeps!

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: YOUR BEST FRIEND IS BEING ABUSED - NOW WHAT?

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: YOUR BEST FRIEND IS BEING ABUSED - NOW WHAT?: You've seen the black eyes, listened to vague responses, and observed your once vibrant friend retreat into someone you don't really...

YOUR BEST FRIEND IS BEING ABUSED - NOW WHAT?

You've seen the black eyes, listened to vague responses, and observed your once vibrant friend retreat into someone you don't really know anymore. Despite your best efforts, Jane* has failed to respond and in some instances has been unreachable. You've been at your wit's end!

Today, Jane came to visit with her arm in a cast, and tears streaming down her face. Finally, she admits the truth of her existence for the past two (2) years - Jane is being abused by her husband. Now what?

Dinner was thrown on the floor because it wasn't hot enough. There are holes in the walls.  Her credit cards have been hidden away, and has no access to cash other than an allowance to purchase household items. She lost her job due to frequent absences.  Being called a fat "wh*** and an ugly bitch are daily occurrences, the cast on her arm is due to being pushed down the stairs, and he's cheating.  All this is communicated as Jane cries out in frustration and hurt, wanting the abuse to end.

Of course, your first response is to hug and make her feel better, fixing the problem; but you know it's not that simple.  

Be prepared to just listen with your whole heart. As you hear some of the things Jane has been through, she also shares how he often apologizes, bringing her flowers or a card.  Clearly, she's afraid and due to frequent gaslighting, emotionally broken and confused about the next step. Perhaps she is blaming herself for everything that is going on, or embarrassed.  Despite everything, maybe she still wants to hang on.  Even worse, she feels trapped in a situation beyond her control.  She doesn't understand the man she married.

Don't pressure her to leave right away, but ask instead if she's ready to leave?  Right now, she's reaching out for the first time, yet hoping that the husband she loves can and will change allowing the nightmare to end.  Ask if she has any money stashed away, suggest she ride with you to get a spare key made for the car so he can't check the mileage when he comes home from work.  Gather pertinent documents like car insurance, birth certificates, license, phone numbers, etc. and keep them in a safe place like your home. Reminder to erase data from the computer. Then when it's safe, practice an escape plan.

This is a good time to point out that domestic violence includes verbal and mental abuse, withholding of finances, physical violence, using the kids or family against you, and isolation.  Now that you know, it's all about the safety of Jane.  It's all about helping her to get her life back.

Still, know that even if she leaves, there's a chance she'll go back. Don't judge or be angry with her because that's not what she needs. Be ready to listen and encourage her all over again.  Let her know how much you care, and be that shoulder she can always lean on. She still may not leave.  Get past your frustration and do the same thing all over again.  Eventually, something you say will stick, something will happen one day that will make her say, "enough is enough", and she will leave for good, getting another chance to be happy either alone or with someone else who genuinely loves who she is.   Remind her that she is not to blame, and we all deserve to be respected.  I promise that you're going to become angry and very frustrated. Don't give up on her.

Despite hearing about sports figures or celebrities who abuse their significant others, or women who have lost their lives or self-esteem due to domestic violence, this is a silent crime that continues to be swept under the carpet.  This is about your sister, your neighbor, your friend, your cousin, your mother, your niece, your aunt and your child who need help and guidance.  Reach out and offer your support and love.  Anything you do may make a difference and save a life.


In the US: call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE).
UK: call Women’s Aid at 0808 2000 247.
Australia: call 1800RESPECT at 1800 737 732.
Worldwide: visit International Directory of Domestic Violence Agencies for a global list of helplines, shelters, and crisis centers. This site offers assistance in various languages.
If you live in NC:  

Domestic Violence

919-828-7740 | 866-291-0855 toll-free







Sexual Assault

919-828-3005 | 866-291-0853 toll-free



Solace Center:             919-828-3067 | 866-291-0854 toll-free






US: visit Womenslaw.org for a state-by-state directory of domestic violence shelters in the U.S.




* Not real name








Monday, March 16, 2015

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: TV HUNKS WHO SHOULD BE IN A ROMANCE NOVEL

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: TV HUNKS WHO SHOULD BE IN A ROMANCE NOVEL: As romance novel readers, we have our favorite genres - historical, contemporary or paranormal.  Those are then split up into  sub-genres  ...

TV HUNKS WHO SHOULD BE IN A ROMANCE NOVEL

As romance novel readers, we have our favorite genres - historical, contemporary or paranormal.  Those are then split up into sub-genres that include inspirational, military, billionaires, NA, multicultural, suspense, sports, erotic, etc. The list in the world of romance is endless.  Despite that lengthy list, they all have one thing in common.  Yep - it's the hero we want to meet, or fall madly in love with time and time again. Every once in a while, there's a match made in heaven in a movie or on television who just needs to be immortalized on our bookshelves.
My two favorites - Dr. Henry McCord, former captain in the US Marines, now serving as a Theology Professor at Georgetown University in Washington DC, who just happens to be married to the Secretary of State in Madame Secretary on CBS.  This handsome hunk is played by Tim Daly, and every time he smiles, speaks or even walks into a room, my knees get weak.  This perfect hubby oozes charm, sexiness, wit and intelligence and he's a fantastic father. Henry is strong when he needs to be and sensitive without being wimpy. Ah...be still my fluttering heart.
Andre Johnson, the ad man played Anthony Anderson is married to an emergency room physician and is totally committed to his family in Blackish on ABC.  "Dre" is a man's man used to the old school way of life, and while successful, doesn't mind telling his kids to get with the program.  Not necessarily handsome in the traditional manner, there's still something wonderful about this tough teddy bear and his outrageous sense of humor that screams romance novel.  Cuddling up with Andre after dinner and a hard day at work just makes me smile.
What about you?  Who are your Hollywood heroes who should be in print?





Sunday, March 15, 2015

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: FREEBIE HAUL RECEIVED THIS WEEK

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: FREEBIE HAUL RECEIVED THIS WEEK: Some things in life really are FREE! My mailbox this week was once again overflowing with goodies, despite having some major issues of not r...

FREEBIE HAUL RECEIVED THIS WEEK

Some things in life really are FREE! My mailbox this week was once again overflowing with goodies, despite having some major issues of not receiving mail from good friends,(info coming soon) and grocery stores were ready when I brought in coupons to rack up some amazing deals. Can you see me doing the Happy Dance?

1.  One Year Subscription to Muscle & Fitness Magazine (yes, I need to focus on my fluffiness)
2.  One year Subscription to Brooklyn Magazine (awesome places to eat)
3.  10 Packages of Seasoning (McCormick Ground Cumin, Minced Garlic & Oregano Leaves)
4.  1 18 Count of Large Eggs from My Essentials
5.  Minute Maid Orange Juice 
6.  L'Oreal Triple Resist Ultimate Strength Solution - 5.1 Fluid Ounces
7.  Yankee Candle - Midsummer's Night Scent
8.  Nivea - In-Shower Body Lotion - Amazing
9.  J.R. Ward - Covet
10.  Susan Squires - The Companion
11.  Better Homes & Gardens - Compete Step by Step Cookbook from 1978