La Vie de Laurie

Glasses for 8?!

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 04:52:35 GMT

I'm known for being the budget fashionista, so I couldn't believe it when I found $8 perscription glasses awhile back on zennioptical.com!

You're probably asking yourself how can they be so cheap? They sell direct to their customers. There is no middleman, so the savings gets passed on to you. There are plenty of cute and trendy specs too! I have a similar pair to the ones on the right. I am in desperate need of a new perscription too, so it's a good thing I ran across their site again today!

This post is sponsored by Zennioptical.com

Frisco Freedom Fest 2008

Fri, 04 Jul 2008 06:09:15 GMT

Happy 4th of July! Dave and I will be going to our first Frisco Freedom Fest tonight. They are doing several concerts (Freddy and The Temptations) and a big fireworks display at Pizza Hut Park. Luckily for us it is only a few minutes away. I am a little scared about how bad traffic is going to be to and from the stadium. I’m also a little sad because our first year away from Lewisville. Hopefully it will be a great night! I’ll post pictures later this weekend. Hope everyone has a great holiday!

Just a Reminder

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 01:40:13 GMT

I know I haven't posted in ages on my LiveJournal. I just wanted to remind everyone that I've moved to my own domain at http://laviedelaurie.com. All the entries I post there do come over here as Friend's Only, but you can go there to comment. I also have a Breast Cancer 3-Day blog at http://our3day.com, so please come visit Nikki and I and show us your support as we prepare to walk 60 Miles in 3 Days this November. Lots of Love!

Cosmetic Surgery

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:37:17 GMT

At one of my previous jobs, one of the most popular reasons an employee would go out on medical leave was to get a breast reduction. I found that interesting given the popularity of Breast Enlargement in Hollywood and in the media. I have read a lot of articles on the topic. It really is fascintating the reasons that women put themselves through the process. Personally I would never get that kind of surgery done. I am just too afraid of knives and don't want to have to go through the pain and recovery time that it would take. I know that from the women that I have talked to though, that it is a life changing experience whether you choose to go larger or smaller. It's really all about making yourself feel better and more confident with your appearance. I cannot judge anyone for doing it, and I've definitely seen the positive effects in co-workers self-esteem.

This post is sponsored by:

Coastal Properties

Sat, 09 Feb 2008 00:55:57 GMT

I mentioned on my other blog that I have been considering taking a vacation to the beach. Wrightsville Beach real estate is just as beautiful as many out of the country places that might cost more to travel to. Wilmington, NC is absolutely gorgeous and there are many beach front properties for sale there too. It would be an amazing place to raise a family or even retire. I like that Coastal Carolina Properties helps users seach by price range, location, and even school. I've been on a lot of housing websites, and I have to admit that last one is pretty rare. Can you imagine stepping out of your home and onto a beach? I'll be having sweet dreams tonight!

Internet Access in the Sticks!

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 20:29:27 GMT

My friend Kat lives in Buda, TX, and a few months ago she finally got "real" internet! I was so excited for her because she was never online due to the slowness of her dial-up. I don't blame her for not bothering with it... I can't imagine the snail speed now that we've had high speed connections.

Believe it or not, where we live is considered rural. Can you believe this city girl lives in the semi-sticks? It's not that bad though. We are only 10 minutes from a big, beautiful mall. For our neighbors, Satellite internet access is an option to going with dial-up. It's fast, and more affordable too. I only wish I could have told my friend about it sooner.

If you are using dial-up or are looking for an alternative to your current service... check out WildBlue!

Going under the Knife

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:51:46 GMT

Our Personal Trainer told us on Monday that his goal for us was to do 100 crunches. Last night we did it! Still, I'm beginning to think my tummy is NEVER going to be flat without the help of a los angeles tummy tuck. I am a big weanie though, and while I'd love to magically wake up with the stomach of my dreams... I am so afraid to go under the knife. I don't know how celebrities can do it. Plus, wouldn't it just get stretched out again once they decide to have kids? Maybe I'll get brave a few years down the road when we have toddlers, but I'm hoping to bend and crunch my way to a flat... or at least flatter tummy. We'll see about that though. After my gallbladder surgery, I'm not looking forward to being put under or getting cut up again. I'm STILL waiting for my scars to heal believe it or not.

Beverly Hills breast augmentation has become increasingly popular too. I used to be pretty small, but with all the weight I've gained... my chest has grown too. TMI, perhaps? I feel sorry for women who are very large and get back problems. I would never want to go through that, and would definitely sign up for breast augmentation stat. I have seen how that can impact a person's life and self esteem, and most of the time it's not a good thing despite everything you hear in the media and many men's fascination with huge jugs.

California rhinoplasty is always in celebrity news too. Remember when Ashlee Simpson decided to get a nose job only to deny it for months afterward? I say that if it is going to make you feel better about yourself and it corrects a breathing problem or other medical issues, then more power to you. I don't think people should be ashamed or hide it.

Web Hosting Choice

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:07:46 GMT

I pay a lot of money to host my three website domains, and while I love LJ... it is totally worth it to have websites of my own. I am also all about saving money, web hosting choice can help me with that. They provide an advertisement free gufide to help users choose the right web host their personal or business sites. Their main feature is a searchable directory that helps you find the right kind of host for your site-- at a price you can afford. I plan on using their service when it is time to renew my domains. If you are looking to starting your own site, this is a great place to start!

Wow

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 05:38:31 GMT

OMG I just spent 3 hours in Wal-Mart. How does that happen?

Selecting a Web Host CAN be easy!

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 23:47:06 GMT

Are you looking for your own home on the World Wide Web? Have you thought about creating your own site or blog off of Live Journal but don't know quite where to start? You will no longer have to worry if you check out http://www.webhostingchoice.com.

They offer an advertisement free site that helps you choose the perfect web host for your personal or even a business site. It's easy because they have a searchable directory that will let you find a plan that works best for you. Do you plan on starting a small site and don't need a lot of space or don't have a lot to invest? They can help you find the perfect place to start. They can even help find plans for big e-commerce websites too.

It's as easy as 1-2-3 and a click of your mouse! You will be up and running in no time at all.

Ugh...

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 04:16:20 GMT

Jill... e-mail me your address. I can't find the entry where you left it for me. :(

Garage Floors

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 03:18:21 GMT

I know it is kind of strange to think about garage floors, but I was slightly obsessed with cleaning ours at the apartment. There was a sprinkler leak about a year ago that stained the floor a rusty orange color and it would never come off. That same liquid also got on my Mustang and wouldn't come off.

In our brand new home the garage floor (above) is still perfectly clean, and I want to keep it that way. I had no idea that concrete coatings exist, but they do. Apparently they make your garage floor easy to clean and it lasts for years too. Now I don't have to worry about rusty floor stains or even oil leaks!

- Sponsored by CarGuyGarage.com -

Out of Ink?

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 04:36:34 GMT

I've been super lazy about hooking up my printer at our new house, because I knew it was just about out of ink when I packed it back up in it's original box in preparation for our move. I couldn't remember what kind of cartridge it takes, but Cartridge Finder solved my problem in a jiffy. In less than 5 minutes I was able to easily find the exact cartridge that fits my HP printer/copier which is amazing considering they list more than 10,000 different models of printer, copier, and fax machines on their site. Best of all the site checks PriceGrabber.com's merchant listings, so you know you have found the absolute best price for the product. Why fight lines at the busy office supply store when you can find exactly what you need and be checked out in no time at all? It's as easy as hitting your print key, well... almost.

Pushing Daisies

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 04:27:11 GMT

My favorite new show of the season is ABC's Pushing Daisies. It is on Wednesday nights... usually at 7PM. If you're not watching it, please please please go on their website where you can watch all the episodes and get caught up. It is such a sweet and very creative show. I cannot remember the last time I felt this way about a TV show. The hour flies by, and I find myself looking forward to it every week. Sadly it will not be on next week, so look for it again in two weeks. In the meantime... seriously, watch the online episodes FOR FREE. Let me know what you think if you watch them, or if you already watch the show let me know what you think too. :)

Christmas Deals

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 04:18:31 GMT

It's no secret that I am a clothing junkie. It's not bad enough that I frequent Old Navy, Gap and Banana Republic weekly. I also shop for my friends and family there too. Both of my parents just had birthdays in October and November, and what did I get them? Clothes! My secret to saving cash is finding online promo codes, and Coupon Chief is one of the first sites that I check.

I love buying clothes, but I don't understand why it doesn't run in my family. There are a ton of fun fall sweaters and coats right now... just waiting to be bought. I usually like to select a few items of clothing and also add something else fun to the gift like a bottle of cologne or a pretty necklace or set of earrings. I can kill two birds with one stone online by using Old Navy coupon codes, and there are Blue Nile deals too. Santa would be proud!

Step on In!

Wed, 21 Nov 2007 03:59:48 GMT

Since moving into the house, I've taken a bath in my garden tub every weekend to relax before the new week starts. I love it. On Sunday I accidently slipped and fell back into the water causing a huge splash and water all over the floor. No lie. We also have a walk in shower, but I was just reading online about Step In Tubs, and I'm thinking down the road I'd love to have one of these.

I like the model above that features air channels that release tiny air bubbles. Those promote healthier blood circulation in case you didn't know. You don't have to worry about slipping or falling down while bathing, which would be a comfort... especially if you have an elderly relative that lives alone. I also read that you can have one installed in 10 days or less from the date that you order it-- which is much faster than an entire remodel of your bathroom. Very cool.

This post is sponsored by Remain Active.

Samantá Shoes

Tue, 30 Oct 2007 01:14:06 GMT

Ever since we started moving, my feet have absolutely been in pain. Even my favorite pair of comfy Coach shoes can't ease the pain. I've been wearing flip flops non-stop, and that's probably not good for my arches. I also donated a lot of my shoes while cleaning out my closet in the past month.

It's time to restock, and Samantá Shoes is just the place to start my search. I wear a modest size 7 1/2 to 8 depending on the shoe, but I have friends who are always searching for cute large size womens shoes in sizes 11, 12, and 13.

I am a huge fan of the "kitten heel" and these DIVNA pumps are super cute. They have a large selection, and lots of categories too. My favorite is the sophisticated woman section because they are perfect for work, as well as elegant AND comfortable. That's exactly what I need right now.

Coupon Codes for Holiday Shopping

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 20:33:44 GMT

The holidays are almost here and I love buying gifts for my friends and family. I've also been known to do a little self gifting. Dave and I both bought a new computer about 4 years ago, and it is really time for us both to get an upgrade. I have really been noticing the slowness lately. We ordered turbo Internet service for the house, but I have the feeling that even it is going to be slow as a snail with my old fossil.

I always turn to Coupon Chief for coupon codes, and I found several great ones for Dell. That's what we both have right now, and since I just won a Dell printer that I gave Dave... I might as well get him a new PC to go with it.

When it comes to gifts, I can't forget Brownie. He's spoiled. I try to buy him all natural treats and food, so the Only Natural Pet Store is perfect for stocking stuffers for the holidays. There are several great coupon codes I can use.

Are you a grinder?

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 05:38:18 GMT

Know anyone that grinds their teeth? Your significant other? Even you, perhaps? I used to, and I wish I had known about Night Guard. Night Guard helps treat TMJ. It is a one size fits all mouth piece that molds to your teeth to prevent the grinding. If you aren't familiar with this problem, some people wear their teeth down if they do not seek help from a dentist or doctor. This is an awesome alternative. You can buy it at your local CVS Pharmacy, Drugstore.com, and Amazon for around $30 or slightly under.

Moen Faucets

Fri, 05 Oct 2007 03:02:24 GMT

We got a really cool Moen faucet as an upgrade in our kitchen at the new house. It's one of our favorite things. Is that geeky? Even if it is, I don't care. It was kind of pricey, but they are definitely worth the extra money because they last FOREVER. We got this Pull-Out Spray Kitchen Faucet, and we are really enjoying it so far. Have you ever tried to wash a tall vase or large pot? These make it easy and painless because it just pulls out to reach.

Bottom line-- I recommend Moen! Check out that site for great deals and a huge selection of Moen products.

Home Insurance

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 17:04:02 GMT

Well, as of Tuesday we are officially home owners. With that involves the need for home insurance. We never had insurance on our apartment, but we talked about it several times. It is very important to have your personal items and home covered though, because that is such a huge investment and a person would be financially devestated if anything major were to happen. We did a lot of research before selecting the right company and plan for us.

CIS also has some great plans available, including a 10% discount* if you sign up online. You can get a quote quickly and easily over the phone too if you prefer that special human touch. For big things such as insurance and utilities, I do prefer to have an agent explain my options to me in detail. If you are comfortable doing it online though, that is a great deal.

*details correct at date of publishing

Looking for a good speaker?

Thu, 20 Sep 2007 02:40:32 GMT

Trying to come up with a good speaker for a corporate event can be hard. I have attended a lot of conventions and business meetings and have seen some pretty boring, drab speakers.

Of course, there have been some good ones mixed in too. Personally I think a business motivational speaker who takes an entertaining approach is always the most interesting kind of speaker. They are also able to hold the attention of the audience because they feel connected to the performer.

Andy Cohen is an example of a speaker who has a good method. He uses magic as a metaphor while revealing key concepts that empower new thinking to drive innovative business solutions in communications, leadership and management. His approach guarantees 100% participation which keeps the audience engaged, and leads to results down the road. Who doesn't love a magician? I'd love to see him at my next big convention.

Do you have a spoiled pet too?

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 23:43:10 GMT

I love our dog Brownie more than words. He is probably one of the most spoiled doggies in the whole wide world. He's been on plenty of car and road trips with me. When he was a puppy he went everywhere with me in a little dog carrier.

One thing I have never done is take him on an airplane. I'm not exactly sure how that works. I would be scared to bring any animal on a plane even with airline approved cat carriers and dog carriers. I would only take him on a plane if he could be with me at all times. Luckily he hardly ever barks, and definitely has never biten anyone. He's as sweet as apple pie.

I like the Guilded Paw, a luxury online store for pampered pets like Brownie. In addition to pet carriers, they also have clothes, collars, and even Halloween costumes. They get two paws up from Brownie!

TrustedPlaces

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 17:24:19 GMT

I want to take a European vacation in the next few years. I know I just wrote a post about saving money, but a big trip to Paris and London is on my list before we decide on having kids. Almost every year I get a tour guide book from one of my family members or friends. I think they all want me to go as much as I want to!

I've been looking around the net trying to come up with ideas, and discovered TrustedPlaces. They help their visitors discover places to eat, drink and hang out. Users can then share their recommendations of places they have visited or post a review of places all over the world. I have been especially interested in the London restaurant lists and reviews. I know Corrin has been to London and plans on going back soon. In addition to asking for her recommendations, I also will be checking out the different reviews of restaurants on this site. What better way to discover cool places to go than from other travelers like me?

Planning this vacation is going to be super easy thanks to TrustedPlaces!

Dreams of NY

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 03:56:58 GMT

It has always been a dream of mine to move to New York for six months to a year and write for either the New York Times or Entertainment Weekly. Heck, I'd even write for a fashion magazine a la The Devil Wears Prada. Please, send me to Paris Fashion Week! A girl can dream, right?!

Another thing holding me back (besides my lack of job opportunities), is lack of a residence. I hear it is pretty expensive to live in and around New York City. If you're looking to find Bellmore real estate listings (or many cities in between), you should check out Prudential Douglas Elliman page. New York's Largest Real Estate Company, with 60 offices serving 350 communities from Manhattan to Montauk, they can certainly help with all your housing needs.

If the right job opportunity ever comes up, I will no doubt be on the lookout for a place to rent. I am sure the site will help me find the perfect place in my price range.