Sunday, November 30, 2014

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: FREE HOLIDAY HEALTH SCREENINGS IN NC

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: FREE HOLIDAY HEALTH SCREENINGS IN NC: If you live in NC, please be sure to take advantage of some of the FREE screenings in Benson, Harrells, Salemburg, Dunn and Smithfield throu...

FREE HOLIDAY HEALTH SCREENINGS IN NC

If you live in NC, please be sure to take advantage of some of the FREE screenings in Benson, Harrells, Salemburg, Dunn and Smithfield through December 19.

FREE Flu Shots
Blood Sugar Checks
Weight Assessments
Blood Pressure Checks
Depression Screenings


Every Tuesday & Thursday
December 2 - December 19

McGee's Crossroads
70 Crepe Myrtle Drive
Benson, NC  27504

Every Wednesday & Thursday
December 2 - December 19

Harrells
194 Tomahawk Highway
Harrells, NC  28444

Newton Grove
3331 Easy Street
Dunn, NC  28334

Salemburg
500 S. Fayetteville Street
Salemburg, NC  28385

Smithfield
507 Brightleaf Blvd, Suite 209
Smithfield, NC  27577

All locations will be open during normal business hours, and no appointment is needed; if you have any additional questions, please contact CommWell Health at:
877-935-5255


Saturday, November 29, 2014

THANKSGIVING SAVINGS

A cheeseburger with fries was my meal for Thanksgiving because I didn't feel like cooking a turkey along with all the other fixings, because it just too much dang work this year! (lol)

Instead, I watched cooking shows and the Hallmark Channel until it was time to check out a few bargains.  I'm proud to say that as the 7th person in line at one store, I managed to score a watch valued at $55.00 for just $1.07 and the lady in front of me won a gift card for $100.00 which totally excited me!  Yay!  Everyone else was in this very orderly line for a 40 inch television.  There were 20 televisions, but 2 were damaged. YIKES!

Then I picked up a large bottle of laundry detergent for just $.55.  Yippeee!

Back home to relax by returning phone calls, when the doorbell started to ring with people bringing me plates of food, platters of desserts and bottles of wine, which was very cool!

I think I may forget all about cooking for the holidays from now on if everyone else is going to deliver to my house. (lol)

Hope your day was as special as you are!

Hugs...


NARCISSISM AND EMOTIONAL ABUSE

Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Individuals with narcissistic personality disorder generally believe that the world revolves around them. This condition is characterized by a lack of ability to empathize with others and a desire to keep the focus on themselves at all times.

Whenever possible, the narcissist wants you to doubt your own value. The best defense against this type of person is to appreciate your own self-worth refusing to buy into their need to dismiss and belittle you and your needs; however, this is easier than it sounds, particularly when in an abusive relationship.  The need of the abuser to control, is how our self-esteem begins to corrode.

People who are narcissistic are frequently described in society as cocky, self-centered, manipulative, and demanding. Narcissists may concentrate on unlikely personal outcomes (e.g., fame) and may be convinced that they deserve special treatment. There are actually related Personality Disorders which include Antisocial , Borderline, and Histrionic behaviors. Actual narcissism is a less extreme version of Narcissistic Personality Disorder, but still dangerous.  Narcissism involves cockiness, manipulative behavior, selfishness, power motives, and vanity, actually loving mirrors.-a love of mirrors. 

Psychologist Stephen Johnson brilliants writes about the narcissist who has “buried his true self-expression in response to early injuries and replaced it with a highly developed, compensatory false self.” This alternate persona to the real self often comes across as grandiose, “above others,” self-absorbed, or highly conceited. 

How do you know that you may be involved with someone who has this condition?  While each of us may exhibit some of these traits throughout our lives, a narcissist displays this behavior consistently. He gives detailed information to help you with 10 examples.

1. Conversation Hoarder – The narcissist loves to talk about him or herself, and fails to give you a chance to take part in the conversation. You struggle to have your views and feelings heard, and when you do get a word in, if it’s not in agreement with you are very likely to be ignored or totally dismissed as if your views have no value.

2. Conversation Interrupter – While some people get excited throughout a conversation and interrupt to be heard, the narcissist will interrupt so the focus goes back to him/herself, paying little attention to you.  

3. Rule Breaker – The narcissist enjoys getting away with violating rules and social norms, such as cutting in line, cheating, chronic under-tipping, stealing from stores or others, breaking appointments, or paying no attention to traffic rules.  In fact, rules rarely apply when it comes to their way of thinking.

4. Boundary Violator – Shows wanton disregard for other people’s thoughts, feelings, possessions, and physical space. Will use others without any thought to sensitivity. Has a tendency to borrow things and refusing to return to them.  This person breaks promises consistently, and may lie about making the promise to begin with. Has no remorse in most instances and will blame you for feeling disrespected.

5. False Image Projection – Many narcissists like to do things to impress others by making themselves look good externally. This “trophy” complex can exhibit itself physically, romantically, sexually, socially, religiously, financially, materially, professionally, academically, or culturally. In these situations, the narcissist uses people, objects, status, and/or accomplishments to represent the self, substituting for the perceived, inadequate “real” self. in many instances, they will spend money on others that they don't have to look important.These grandstanding “merit badges” are often exaggerated. The underlying message of this type of display is: “I’m better than you!” or “Look at how special I am – I’m worthy of everyone’s love, admiration, and acceptance!”

6. Entitlement – Narcissists often expect preferential and special treatment from others, no matter what. They expect others to cater right to their needs, without being considerate in return. This is very evident in gender abuse, believing that a woman must stay in her place.  As far as they are concerned, the world revolves around them or owes them something.

7. Charmer – Narcissists are extremely charismatic and persuasive. In fact, they are often the life of the party and people enjoy being around them. When they’re interested in you, you feel totally special and wanted. However, once they lose interest in you (most likely after they’ve gotten what they want, or became bored), they may drop you without a second thought or begin cheating on you. A narcissist can be very engaging and sociable, as long as you’re fulfilling what she desires, and giving her all of your attention.

8. Grandiose Personality –  Have a huge sense of self-importance, believing that others cannot live or survive without him, therefore giving them the right to do what they wish during the relationship.

9. Negative Emotions – Many narcissists enjoy spreading and arousing negative emotions to gain attention, feel powerful, and keep you insecure and off-balance. They are easily upset at any real or perceived slights or inattentiveness. They get angry when you disagree with their views, or fail to meet their expectations. They are extremely sensitive to criticism, and typically respond with heated argument (fight) or cold detachment (flight). Ironically, they are quick to judge and don't mind ridiculing and blaming you for everything wrong in their lives. Many narcissists are emotionally abusive making you feel inferior both publicly and privately, and this is considered part of domestic violence. 

10. Manipulation: Use Others as Extension of Self – Making decisions for others to suit one’s own needs. The narcissist may use his or her romantic partner to meet unreasonable self-serving needs, fulfill unrealized dreams, or cover up self-perceived inadequacies and flaws.  Perhaps they've wooed you with grand gestures and expensive gifts, yet now are withholding funds, exhibiting financial abuse to control you.

Another way narcissists manipulate is through guilt, such proclaiming: “I’ve given you so much, and you’re so ungrateful,” or “I’m a victim - you must help me or you’re not a good person.” They take over your emotions, forcing you to make unreasonable sacrifices, including the giving up of yourself.

Those in abusive relationships have seen this type of behavior - the coldness, the cheating, the lies, the degradation, all meant to make you look as if you're the bad guy.  The emotional abuse you feel is real and hurtful.

When you can safely, seek help from a pastor, a friend you can trust, or a domestic violence shelter. Abuse is real if you're married, in a relationship, or simply dating, and is all about controlling the person you are.

Know that people care and want the best for you, always!

Hugs...

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: PARMESAN PEAS

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: PARMESAN PEAS: I fell in love with this recipe because everything was already in the fridge and it was super simple to make.  1 Lb Sugar Snap Peas - stri...

PARMESAN PEAS

I fell in love with this recipe because everything was already in the fridge and it was super simple to make. 

1 Lb Sugar Snap Peas - strings removed
10 Oz. Frozen Green Peas
4 Tbsp Butter - yep, I did say butter (lol)
1/4 Cup Fresh Grated Parmesan Cheese
Pinch of Garlic Powder


1.  Heat a covered 6-qt saucepot (uh...to be honest, I have no clue if my pot was 6-qts or not, but the size I used worked just fine - lol) boiling salted water on high.  Add frozen peas, cooking for just a minute or until they are thawed.  Then drain well.

2.  Then in the same pot, melt the butter on medium-high or until browned and fragrant. stirring occasionally.  Reduce the heat to medium-low.  Add the sugar snap peas and 1/2 tsp each of salt & pepper, tossing to coat.  Stir in the Parmesan and garlic powder, then remove from the stove.  If you'd like a little more flavor, feel free to add onions; as always, if you like more heat, go ahead and add some cayenne pepper to taste. Serve right away for yummy goodness!

Thursday, November 27, 2014

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: HAPPY THANKSGIVING

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: HAPPY THANKSGIVING: God places people in our lives at just the right moment, so when He introduced Kelly, He did me a tremendous favor. I've known her f...

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

God places people in our lives at just the right moment, so when He introduced Kelly, He did me a tremendous favor.  She has a personality that's so fun and you just want to hang out with her.

I've known her for about 9 years and while we sometimes lost touch during that time, every time we did meet, it seemed as if we could simply pick up the conversation where we left off.

This year, Kelly has bent over backwards to help me out with advice and didn't mind answering late night texts or phone calls, when I had questions.

Her husband has a quirky sense of humor that always kept me laughing, and he never hesitated to be brutally honest when needed.

I could go on and on with a very long list of all the things Kelly and Tim did for me this year, but I wouldn't want to bore anyone with all the details, but since today is Thanksgiving I'm giving them both HUGE Hugs of love and gratitude.  They know what they've done and how much they mean to me, even when I'm too busy to call.

In addition, I don't know how he turned out so well with such a nutty mom, (lol) but I have to give mad props to my son for always being the voice of reason with just about anyone he comes in contact with, and he's always there for me.    No matter what the circumstance, he remains calm and stress-free, even with small daughter; however, I dare not mention his name in this blog because that might be stretching it. (smile)

Finally, I'd like to thank all of my Facebook friends and Bloggers over the past year who have been fun and supportive, as well as all the authors who have taken the time to share news about upcoming books, providing glimpses into their lives, and other pertinent information.

From my family to yours, we wish you a safe, fun and wonderful Thanksgiving!

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: NAUGHTY NACHOS

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: NAUGHTY NACHOS: Yes, everyone is focused on all these amazing turkey recipes, but last night I just had a craving for nachos, so here they are! (lol) I...

NAUGHTY NACHOS


Yes, everyone is focused on all these amazing turkey recipes, but last night I just had a craving for nachos, so here they are! (lol)

I made this meal with mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and pepper jack cheese, along with seasoned ground chuck, refried beans, a hint of salsa verde, pico de gallo, and plenty of hot sauce.  Then I planned to top it off with sour cream. The reason it's called Naughty Nachos is because of the ghost pepper sauce sprinkled sparingly throughout the dish for even more heat.

In the shower when hubby came home, the first place he checked was the microwave. I think the empty plate below tells the story, don't you? (lol)

Tuesday, November 25, 2014

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: DOES THIS ABUSER LOOK FAMILIAR?

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: DOES THIS ABUSER LOOK FAMILIAR?: Society is most familiar with stories of physical assault because that's what has been depicted publicly, however, emotional and psych...

DOES THIS ABUSER LOOK FAMILIAR?

Society is most familiar with stories of physical assault because that's what has been depicted publicly, however, emotional and psychological abuse is also considered domestic violence.

This abuser is friendly, knowledgeable and the life of the party to everyone in the community, yet he or she comes home wreaking havoc on the victim with a vengeance.

This is the cheater who lies repeatedly, displaying no remorse, blaming you for everything under the sun, eventually making you doubt your own sanity.  This is the person whose disparaging comments has caused friends to change their opinion of your character. Your reputation and good standing have been ruined and life is not the same through no fault of your own.  All you want to do is wake up from the horrible nightmare.

You may feel alone, but there are people you can trust.  The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 is available 24 hours a day to offer guidance and support, or perhaps you can speak with a pastor.

YOU deserve to be content in life, so when you're ready and feel safe, take that first step, knowing that we support you.

Hugs...

Monday, November 24, 2014

FREE GIFT CARD FOR 1ST 250 CUSTOMERS

If you still have energy after eating that HUGE Thanksgiving meal this Thursday, or you're trying to get out of doing dishes, (lol) be one of the 1st 250 customers to visit Belk and get a FREE gift card.

The ad with more information is listed below.

Hugs...

Belk Sale Ad is Listed  HERE

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: ARE YOU A SELFIE ADDICT?

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: ARE YOU A SELFIE ADDICT?:   Are you one of those people who pose on the elevator, at family events, or in the  mirror at home, just so you can have an exciting new ...

SELFIE SUPERBOWL SUNDAY - ARE YOU A SELFIE ADDICT?

 Are you one of those people who pose on the elevator, at family events, or in the  mirror at home, just so you can have an exciting new picture to post on Facebook or Instagram for all the world to see?

If so,  according to a recent article in the Atlanta Journal, you are MORE likely to get a raise at work!  I know, it sounds totally crazy,  but The Job Factory, an Australian job finding agency, surveyed workers in the United States, the United Kingdom and Singapore who posted 20 or more Selfies a month, and found that they actually received raises averaging 3.7%, compared to someone like me who NEVER takes pictures. People like us who stand in the corner, only average a raise of about 2.4%. Huh?  Can we get a recount, please?
I'm just saying that something just doesn't seem right about those figures, but that's just my two cents.

Craig Binnie, an executive at The Job Factory says that businesses are impressed by those who post via Social Media because they appear to exude plenty of confidence and ambition - traits which make them more likely to get an increase in salary.  I don't know about you, but I'm still shocked by this tidbit!  Call me a nut, but what in the world happened to getting a raise based solely on merit?

Just for the record, and you didn't hear it from me, (lol) but EVERY single day my husband takes at least 3-4 Selfies, and apparently because that's not enough, he then asks me to take even more pictures just in case anyone may have missed the ones he took of himself.  Can we say, "YIKES"?!



Friday, November 21, 2014

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: SIMPLE WAY TO GET THE BEST RATES ON CREDIT CARDS

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: SIMPLE WAY TO GET THE BEST RATES ON CREDIT CARDS: The holidays are fast approaching and everyone is ready to whip out that credit card to find  the best deals on gifts for friends and family...

SIMPLE WAY TO GET THE BEST RATES ON CREDIT CARDS

The holidays are fast approaching and everyone is ready to whip out that credit card to find  the best deals on gifts for friends and family.  But did you know that many credit cards are rated for their helpful features, or that it's best not to sign up for a card with just any company? 

Find out about over 1000 credit cards by visiting www.CreditCardConnection.org.  All of these cards are issued by credit unions which generally offer lower fees than a bank.

Also check out www.NerdWallet.com which shows you over 1700 cards from banks and credit unions and offers lower than average interest rates.

Both of these sites are simple to use so you can find what you're looking for right away.  Take your time to get the best rate possible by visiting one or both of these sites.  You'll be amazed at how much money you can save!

Hugs...

Thursday, November 20, 2014

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: SIERRA CARTWRIGHT - Interview Coming in February 2...

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: SIERRA CARTWRIGHT - Interview Coming in February 2...: The other day, friends from the Social Blogger Facebook page discussed the BDSM world, and we all agreed that there is a certain art to w...

SIERRA CARTWRIGHT - Interview Coming in February 2015


The other day, friends from the Social Blogger Facebook page discussed the BDSM world, and we all agreed that there is a certain art to writing this type of genre. So you know I'm thrilled to share all the yummy details about this lifestyle, her writing background and other fun details you've been dying to know from the very gifted, wonderful and kind Sierra Cartwright!


Stay tuned...

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: BRENDA NOVAK - Interview Coming in January 2015

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: BRENDA NOVAK - Interview Coming in January 2015: New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Brenda Novak will be joining us for an interview in January 2015. Let's find out all the...

BRENDA NOVAK - Interview Coming in January 2015

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Brenda Novak will be joining us for an interview in January 2015. Let's find out all there is to know about her life as a writer, what she thinks of the genre, and her plans for the future. I can't wait!

Hugs...

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: THE BACK SEAT

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: THE BACK SEAT: Is it just me as I sit here wondering how in the world no one ever notices the deranged psycho sitting in the back seat of the car in almost...

THE BACK SEAT

Is it just me as I sit here wondering how in the world no one ever notices the deranged psycho sitting in the back seat of the car in almost every horror movie or thriller either at the movies or on tv?

Because it seemed so "out there" I put it to the test in a 2007 Ford Explorer, a 2014 Lexus Truck and a 1995 Cadillac Brougham during daylight hours.  Then I gathered my courage and experimented when it was just starting to get dark.  Uh...how about I ALWAYS looked in the backseat, because it's nearly impossible to just jump into a vehicle without looking around.  This scenario just seems crazy to me!

How about you?  Am I the only one who sees that something is very wrong with this picture?  I just don't get it.

Hugs...

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE REALLY NEED YOUR HELP

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: BENEFIT CONCERT FOR VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: Society believes that physical violence like black eyes, broken arms or being burned is considered abuse, and of course it is. That's w...

VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE REALLY NEED YOUR HELP

Society believes that physical violence like black eyes, broken arms or being burned is considered abuse, and of course it is. That's what we hear about in the news, in the grocery store, at church or at the water cooler while at work. That's what we've been conditioned to understand; yet domestic violence is so much more. It may include the emotional and psychological abuse of being constantly humiliated or degraded, intimidation, gaslighting,  the withholding of money so the victim finds it difficult to escape, being cheated on or isolated from friends and family. These are the abusers who fly under the radar and appear quite friendly on the surface. During normal conversations they will proudly tell anyone who cares to listen, "I would never hit a woman" or "I can't stand a man who hits a woman".  
If you know of someone who is being abused, please offer your support and understanding, even if the victim manages to leave, then goes back.  If a friend cries out to you, please offer a shoulder to lean on, if you can. Also know that your donations make it possible to offer shelter to families in need.  Your help can save a life.
If you are a victim, please seek support from someone you can trust, such as a pastor, close friend or relative.  If you live in NC, and can safely do so, seek 24 hour assistance from SAFE of Harnett County or InterAct of Wake County.
SAFE OF Harnett County 210 S Main St, Lillington, NC 27546   (910) 893-7233
InterAct 24 HOUR CRISIS LINES
Domestic Violence
919-828-7740
866-291-0855 toll-free

Sexual Assault
919-828-3005
866-291-0853 toll-free

NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE    1-800-799-7233 

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

PAMELA MORSI INTERVIEW - Coming Soon

USA Today Bestselling Author, Pamela Morsi will be joining us soon for an interview, where we'll get up close and personal.  Stay tuned...

Monday, November 17, 2014

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: GLAZED CARROTS AND FRESH DILL

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: GLAZED CARROTS AND FRESH DILL: This recipe provides a different spin on what you may have used traditionally in salads or for snacks in the past, and works well as a side ...

GLAZED CARROTS AND FRESH DILL

This recipe provides a different spin on what you may have used traditionally in salads or for snacks in the past, and works well as a side dish for Thanksgiving or other special events.

2 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 Tablespoons of Unsalted Butter
2 Pounds of Carrots - peeled
1/2 Cup Chicken Stock
1 Cup Dry Champagne or Apple Cider
1 Tablespoon Light Brown Sugar
2 Tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice, + several thin slices of Lemon for garnish
1 1/2 Tablespoons Minced Fresh Dill

In a large pan over medium-high heat, heat up the olive oil and butter, then add the carrots.  Saute until they just begin to turn brown - 7 to 9 minutes.  Add the stock, champagne or cider.  Cover and continue to cook over medium heat until the carrots are almost tender, but still firm - about 3 minutes.

Remove the cover, turn the heat to high until most of the liquid has evaporated - about 3-5 minutes. Add the sugar, and toss gently to coat the carrots and to help the sugar dissolve.  Add the lemon juice and minced dill, tossing well.  Garnish with lemon slices on the plate and you're all set.

DRESSING VS. STUFFING - IS THERE A DIFFERENCE?


To be honest, I use these terms interchangeably, but there really is a difference.  Dressing is actually baked in a dish in the oven and stuffing cooks inside of the chicken, goose, duck or turkey.

But what the heck - maybe you could care less one way or the other what it's called, as long as it tastes good! (lol)

Oyster Dressing can be super crunchy due to the saltines that are added.

Sausage Stuffing - A bread stuffing made with lots of your choice of sausage, herbs and apples or cranberries for something a little different.

Cornbread Dressing -  Bake your cornbread with dried fruit, nuts and other ingredients you may like to wow your guests.

Cranberry or Raisin Stuffing - Use thick bread crumbs, golden raisins or cranberries, onions,thyme and sage to make this recipe sing as it's cooked inside of your turkey!

Sunday, November 16, 2014

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: DOYLE NEW YORK APPRAISERS COMING TO NC

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: DOYLE NEW YORK APPRAISERS COMING TO NC: Doyle New York Auctioneers & Appraisers of Fine Estates  & Collections will be in the NC area next month. Their specialists will e...

DOYLE NEW YORK APPRAISERS COMING TO NC

Doyle New York Auctioneers & Appraisers of Fine Estates  & Collections will be in the NC area next month.

Their specialists will evaluate Watches and Jewelry for upcoming auctions in New York and will visit Charlotte, NC on December 4 and Raleigh, NC on December 5.

If you'd like your merchandise to be looked at, please schedule a private appointment by calling 704-582-2258.

Hugs...

FRUGAL FRAMES

I took a page out of my Facebook friend Anna Cade's book, who always comes up with these really neat designs for her nails.  So I decided to be a little crafty around the house.  

I picked up wooden frames from Wal-mart a while ago (before my rant), foam paint brushes, paint in a bottle, various pieces and colors of felt, and scrapbook design paper.  Everything I just listed cost a whopping $6.38.

Yellow felt was used to wrap a frame for the living room, then I painted another one light green, and the last one was wrapped with colorful scrapbooking paper that looks like rugs. 

Traditionally, I've stayed away from projects such as these, because it seemed like it would take a while to finish AND I was sure it would be royally screwed up!   By the time I completed all 3 frames, it took just an hour, so I'm ready to dive back in for more!  

If you want to save money, or looking for creative ways to design picture frames, take some time to shop at craft stores, and dollar stores, etc., to see what you can come up with.  It will definitely be worth it!

Hugs...

Friday, November 14, 2014

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: TOP 10 STATES OF WOMEN KILLED BY MEN DUE TO DOMEST...

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: TOP 10 STATES OF WOMEN KILLED BY MEN DUE TO DOMEST...: I read this story in the Post & Courier a little while ago, and was horrified at these statistics because it reflects information ONLY...

TOP 10 STATES OF WOMEN KILLED BY MEN DUE TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

I read this story in the Post & Courier a little while ago, and was horrified at these statistics because it reflects information ONLY that has been reported and could actually be much, much worse.

These are women who have been killed by men who were supposedly in love, and in 77% of the cases, as reported, they were actually shot!

Here's the list as it stands, according to the Violence Policy Center:

1.  Alaska
2.  South Carolina
3.  Oklahoma
4.  Louisiana
5.  Mississippi
6.  Nevada
7.  Missouri
8.  Arizona
9.  Georgia
10.  Tennessee

When this article was written, some, including the wonderful author Ms. Frank, whom I've always admired, offered up kudos and support as written below:

 Dorothea Benton Frank
"I'd like to congratulate The Post and Courier for its fine investigative work into the crimes of domestic violence and domestic homicide. If I had the power to grant your journalists a Pulitzer I most certainly would. This complicated problem has many facets and the only way it will ever stop is if there are consequences that are of equal weight with the crime. Raising awareness is the first step. Again, congratulations and please keep up the excellent work."

In comparison to the woman listed below who has no understanding of what someone who has been abused goes through on a daily basis:


SweetJane Parx ·  Top Commenter · NUNYA BUSINESS
"Maybe it's not the mentality of the men but the mentality of the women. How does this state compare to the national average as far as women who insist on staying with a man who beats her? How do we compare when it comes to women who take men back in after the restraining order has expired? How do we compare when it comes to women who ignore their family and friends warnings that he's a scumbag?

But I guess let's don't really explore this too deeply, it's much more satisfying to do something that feels good than act on reality.

Thursday, November 13, 2014

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: WAL-MART RANT

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: WAL-MART RANT: I've literally shopped in Wal-mart for all my life because they have nice merchandise; but on Veterans' Day my positive outlook chan...

WAL-MART RANT

I've literally shopped in Wal-mart for all my life because they have nice merchandise; but on Veterans' Day my positive outlook changed.

How dare you put up a table with red, white and blue banners, appreciating a veteran, yet not offer the slightest discount to purchase your products.  For some reason I saw this as hypocritical, insulting and an awesome fail.  In fact, I visited 3 stores in different locations and experienced the same behavior.

I asked two employees if they offered discounts and they seemed shocked that I asked, and when I spoke to the Customer Service Manager, who was friendly thank goodness, her comment was,"We offer great deals every day"!   She then rubbed me on the shoulder as if that took away the sting of her comment. ! Huh...?

If we can shop in a Dollar General or a Food Lion and get a discount, how can a chain such as Wal-mart offer anything less to those who have served their country and come home with PTSD, without a limb, no benefits, are homeless and can't find jobs, and have trouble in some instances maintaining relationships causing emotional and physical trauma to those they love?

Wal-Mart has close to 35 million LIKES on Facebook, and for them to "pledge to hire 100,000 veterans by 2019, and salute veterans" on their page, I find to be a huge missed opportunity for revenue and to gain new customers. This may be a small matter to some, but I believe this to be a HUGE deal to be addressed.  

The entire scenario throughout the day truly frustrated me; so much so, that I commented on their page on November 12 to address my concerns, advising them of my intent to share this information with others via Facebook, Twitter and my Blog with no response.  This indicates to me that they don't consider my rant of any importance.

Keep in mind that there are veterans out there who have given up everything to protect their country. Is a discount offered one day a year unreasonable?  Is anyone out there with me on this issue?

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: WORLD KINDNESS DAY - November 13

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: WORLD KINDNESS DAY - November 13: Did you know that today is World Kindness Day?  If not, try to make a conscious effort to allow someone to cut in front of you in line or in...

WORLD KINDNESS DAY - November 13

Did you know that today is World Kindness Day?  If not, try to make a conscious effort to allow someone to cut in front of you in line or in the highway, or to pay for a stranger's coffee in MCDonald's.  Perhaps you can surprise everyone in the office with donuts or muffins or to cook dinner at home this evening.  Call an old friend you haven't seen in a while to say hello, or offer to babysit for a neighbor's child.  Maybe you can walk with a friend around the block.

The sky is the limit on what you'd like to do to make a difference in someone's life today.

Hugs...

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: CHEATING IS PART OF DOMESTIC ABUSE

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: CHEATING IS PART OF DOMESTIC ABUSE: Did you know that cheating is also considered domestic abuse? This is because psychologists believe the pattern of abusers and cheaters can ...

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: BLACK FRIDAY STORE OPENINGS

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: BLACK FRIDAY STORE OPENING: Yep, that shopping  day is getting closer, but if you still don't know what your plans will be for spending your cash on Black Friday, ...

BLACK FRIDAY STORE OPENINGS

Yep, that shopping  day is getting closer, but if you still don't know what your plans will be for spending your cash on Black Friday, ALL YOU Magazine has taken the initiative to help you figure out where to go and when. Please note that some of the times actually start early on Thanksgiving Day. Also, Wal-Mart just released their 41 page ad showcasing their deals.

Black Friday Store Opening Hours
• Kmart: Thursday, 6 a.m.
• Stage: Thursday, 4 p.m.
• Babies R Us: Thursday, 5 p.m.
• JC Penney: Thursday, 5 p.m.
• Stein Mart: Thursday, 5 p.m.
• Toys R Us: Thursday, 5 p.m.
• Belk: Thursday, 6 p.m.
• Best Buy: Thursday, 6 p.m.
• Bon-Ton: Thursday, 6 p.m.
• Carson’s: Thursday, 6 p.m.
• Kohl’s: Thursday, 6 p.m.
• Macy’s: Thursday, 6 p.m.
• Sears: Thursday, 6 p.m.
• Sports Authority: Thursday, 6 p.m.
• Staples: Thursday, 6 p.m.
• Target: Thursday, 6 p.m.
• Walmart: Thursday, 6 p.m.
• ULTA: Thursday, 8 p.m.
• AC Moore: Friday, 5 a.m.
• Lowe’s: Friday, 5 a.m.
• Harbor Freight: Friday, 7 a.m.
• Sam’s Club: Friday, 7 a.m

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: THREE BEAN SALAD W/FRESH MINT

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: THREE BEAN SALAD W/FRESH MINT: Despite being addicted to watching cooking shows, I don't want to put a lot of work into actually cooking if I can help it. That's w...

THREE BEAN SALAD W/FRESH MINT

Despite being addicted to watching cooking shows, I don't want to put a lot of work into actually cooking if I can help it. That's why this recipe is a great one to try.  In addition to tasting really good, it's easy to pack up and take along to someone else's home, so you'll look as if you worked really hard.

1 Small Red Onion, thinly sliced, or chopped up, if you prefer
1 Pkg Frozen Green Beans that have been thawed
1 Can Drained Chickpeas
1 Can of Drained Kidney Beans
2 Tablespoons Finely Chopped Fresh Mint
2 Tablespoons Finely Grated Lemon Zest
1/4 Cup Sherry Vinegar
1/4 Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 Tablespoon Sugar
1 Teaspoon Kosher Salt
1/4 Teaspoon Black Pepper
1/4 Teaspoon of Cayenne (Optional)

Place the onion into a bowl, then add all of the rest of the ingredients, stirring to taste.  If you need extra flavor, add more lemon zest, mint, salt or black pepper.  Serve right away, or refrigerate until later.  Yummy!

Monday, November 10, 2014

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: BEST SHOWS YOU MAY BE MISSING

IN THE KNOW WITH RO: BEST SHOWS YOU MAY BE MISSING: If you're looking to escape normal life for just 30-60 minutes, take time to experience the bliss, edgy humor and laugh out loud funny e...

BEST SHOWS YOU MAY BE MISSING

If you're looking to escape normal life for just 30-60 minutes, take time to experience the bliss, edgy humor and laugh out loud funny experiences associated with Selfie, Shanice & Flex, Marry Me and Around the House.  These characters are the ones you can't wait to invite to those boring parties or just want to hang out with when your regular best friend starts to get on your nerves.

I've watched these programs over and over


because some of the plots are totally absurd and crazy, making me appreciate the party that surely must be going on in heads of the writers!

Due to some of the raunchy humor, you may not want to watch with the kiddies, (with the exception of Flex & Shanice who manage to be funny, but still-G rated), but curl up at your leisure when they're not around with some yummy ice cream or other decadent delight! You'll soon be hooked just like me!