Friday, September 25, 2015

Our New Chapter Book, Brother Sister Detectives, CAT

This is a small part of the book we are writing. I'm doing the writing. Nine year old Khloe is making the illustrations and Eleven year old Kyle is putting all the things together. For us, it takes an entire family to write a chapter book.



BROTHER SISTER DETECTIVES

CAT

If you saw Khloe, you would think she had the prettiest curly brown hair you ever saw on a nine year old little girl. Khloe is Asian American, with soft dark eyes, that curly hair and a smile to die for. She has an eleven year old brother Kyle and they argue all the time. Kyle is the quiet one, unless Khloe is around. The two of them together are always getting into it about something. It usually has to do with iPads or some sort of video game.

If you asked Khloe, she would say Kyle started all the trouble. The problem was Khloe had a sense of humor since the day she could talk and she just could not help herself. Kyle was two years older than his sister, but she was catching up with him as far as height and weight is concerned. Unlike Khloe, Kyle has straight dark brown hair and the same dark eyes as his sister. He wears glasses because he can't see the chalk board at school without them. Kyle is an easy going boy, except don't ask him to hug his sister because she is always trying to get on his nerves. Just thinking about it makes him grumpy.

Why did the two of them decide to start a detective agency anyways?  That is the beginning of our story.

Chapter I

Khloe saw the sign on their way to school on Tuesday morning. The sign read; MISSING PERSIAN CAT, $50.00 REWARD. Now, both Khloe and Kyle were allergic to cats. If they were left in a room with a cat, Kyle would begin sneezing and Khloe would get a cough that could last for days. Khloe had an idea. They could start a detective business and their first case would be to find this missing cat. The $50.00 reward would do wonders for their new business. She told her brother who told her she was completely crazy. "Khloe, are you kidding me?" " We are both allergic to cats." Khloe thought about it for a minute or two. Sure they were allergic to cats, but this cat was likely outside and it would not affect either of them in ths same way. She would bring up her idea again when they were eating dinner together as a family tonight.



School was uneventful. All Khloe could think about was the cat and her detective agency. She loved cats and would do anything to have one as a pet. She believed the owner of this cat felt the same way as she did. By the time she realized it, Khloe had daydreamed through her first two classes. She would have continued is Mrs. Stanley didn't call on her in 4th grade math. "Khloe, could you answer my question please?" Khloe was flabbergasted. How was she suppossed to answer a question she didn't even hear? "Mrs. Stanly." Khloe began. "What was your question?" Mrs. Stanly smiled at her student. Khloe was usually the one student she could count on to pay attention all of the time. Today, there had to be something on her mind. "My question is what is your daydream about?" One of the little boys in class snickered. It was likely Joseph because he always found a way to find everything funny. Joseph was a boy who was the opposite of Khloe. He listened when he wanted to and that was a rare moment indeed.

"I was thinking about a cat." Khloe answered. "I am allergic to cats, but I really love cats and there is a cat missing down the street from where I live." The same little boy snickered once again. This time Mrs. Stanly caught Joseph and showed him how to zipper his lip. He zippered it with a great big smile on his face. "That's understandable." Mrs. Stanley said. "But Khloe please pay attention in class and save your thoughts for your own time. Khloe nodded her head and she decided she would wait until after school to think about the missing cat. Joseph nearly snickered again, until he realized his lips were zippered and layed his head in his hands.

In art class, Khloe drew a picture of a cat. This was no ordinary cat, but the cat Khloe believed was lost. She had to find this kitten and bring it back to its owner. There was probably a little girl (just like her) who lost her pet and was crying about it at this very moment. Khloe decided she would tell her brother about her plan and she hoped he would help her find the missing cat. She looked at the clock and noticed the time was dragging. Why did time seem to take forever to move when you had something important to do?

Chapter 2  The Plan

The car line was busy as usual. The Florida heat hit Khloe's forehead and instantly a bead of sweat ran down her face. When it reached her little mouth, Khloe noticed that it tasted like salt. Khloe waited for her brother Kyle. He seemed to take forever to walk out of the gate. He was carrying his backpack and was talking to his (best friend) Brandon. "Kyle" Khloe yelled a little louder than she hoped. Her brother turned around and looked at his sister. A slight touch of annoyance was growing in his brow. "What do you want?" Her brother answered. Khloe motioned for Kyle to go with her to the large maple tree that gave shade to the side of the school. This tree was all there was to help the children deal with the September heat in Florida.

Kyle was a bit frustrated, but he remembered what his father told him. "Make sure you take care of your little sister because you are the only big brother she has." Kyle followed Khloe to the base of the tree and looked at her questioningly. "Remember the sign?" Khloe asked. Kyle shook his head. He had no idea what his sister was talking about. "The sign about the missing cat." Khloe said excitedly.  Finally, Kyle understood what his sister was talking about. His sister must have been thinking about this cat the entire school day. Kyle thought about the cat a little bit, but when he got into having fun with his friends, he forgot. "What are you planning with this missing cat?" Kyle asked. Finally Khloe smiled because her brother understood what she was talking about. "I want us to find this cat." She said. "I know we are allergic to cats, but this is important."

Kyle nodded his head and he thought about it for a second. Finally, he realized that his sister had a good idea. In fact, they could start their own club where they found things that other people lost. Kyle always wanted to be a detective and now was his chance. Besides, he also loved kittens and to find one another kid lost would make him feel good inside. The two siblings agreed they would find a way to find this missing cat.

THE SEARCH

After school, Kyle and Khloe did their homework and their chores. Then they asked their father if he would take a walk with them around the neighborhood. They knew he would not let them walk around by themselves because the world was not a safe place. Their father was happy to take them for a walk. He was always trying to find a way to get his children to exercise and this was a real treat for him.

The kids walked their dad to the missing cat sign. Khloe took out a pad of paper and wrote down the phone number with a pen. She asked her father if she could borrow his phone and called the number. A lady answered the phone. Her name was Leila and she lived two blocks down the road. Kyle and Khloe really wanted to meet her and pleaded with their father.

Roy was a middle-aged father. He kept his graying hair short and he had a normal build. Roy stood nearly six feet tall and weighed just over two hundred pounds. Roy had been a working stay at home father since his children were born. He was an over protective father because he knew there was a lot of evil in the world. He looked at the sign, his kids and decided this was worth a shot. They would meet the lady and see about her cat together.

Leila

An pudgy elderly old lady answered the door moments after Kyle hit the buzzer. She smiled when she saw the children and put her hand out to shake Roy's. Leile welcomed the family into her home and pushed them into comfortable chairs in her small living room. She offered them coffee, milk and cookies. The children accepted happily and Roy thankfully accepted the offer of coffee.

While Leila put together the goodies, Kyle and Khloe looked over the decorated walls of the living room. There were old photos of a man who was in military uniform. To Kyle, the pictures looked like they were taken during World War II. There were also numerous pictures of children with their families. Khloe also noticed a few photos of Leila smiling and spending time with these families. They must be her children and grandchildren. The room was busy with organization. Filled up with magazines, stuffed animals and all sorts of cute decorations. Khloe took note of all the kitten and cat toys and pictures. She could tell this lady really loved her family and her missing pet. Khloe knew (at that moment) she really needed to find the cat for this kind woman.

"Here's your coffee, milk and cookies." Leila said happily as she moved into the room. Kyle and Khloe munched down their milk and cookies in an instant. They forgot about the cat for a second and enjoyed the taste of home cooked goodies. Khloe finally wiped the milk from face and looked directly at Leila. What Khloe saw was a little glimmer of sadness in the kind old lady's eyes.
"Ms. Leila." Khloe began. "Could you please tell us about your cat."  Leila smiled and looked back at the pretty little girl. "Oh My" she said. Leila rubbed her face and a little worried wrinkle formed on her brow. "Samson is the most important thing to me since my husband died five years ago." She paused and wiped a few forming tears from her face. "One day last week, he left and never came back." " I don't know what I will do if my Samson is gone forever." Khloe jumped off her chair and moved over to where Leila sat. She smiled at the woman and gave her a great big hug. "Don't you worry." She said. "Kyle and I will surely find Samson."



Leila wiped her eyes again and then she smiled. She found a picture of Samson, thanked the children and their father for coming and led them to the door. As Leila opened the door, she handed each child a small paper bag. The children looked back at the kind old lady and thanked her. "I wanted you to have something to eat while you searched for Samson." She said with a new found glow in her eyes. "There are half a dozen more homemade cookies for each of you." The children waved, Leila waved and felt a little hope as she closed the door. This house really was lonely without Samson. She thought to herself.



Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Banana Bread By BlendTec

Ingredients

2   
ripe bananas, approximately 1 cup mashed
2   large 
eggs
12   cup 
low-fat vanilla yogurt
34   cup 
granulated or turbinado sugar
14   cup 
coconut oil
112   tsp 
vanilla extract
112   cups 
all-purpose or whole wheat flour
1   tsp 
baking soda
1   tsp 
kosher salt
12   cup 
walnuts, optional
12   cup 
chocolate chips, optional


INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Add first 6 ingredients to WildSide+ or FourSide jar and secure lid. Select "Batters" or blend on a Medium to Medium-Low speed for 30 seconds
  3. Add remaining ingredients and secure lid. Press "Pulse" 3–5 times or until dry ingredients are incorporated; do not overblend.
  4. If adding walnuts or chocolate chips, add to mixture and press "Pulse" 2-3 times to incorporate.
  5. Pour batter into greased 9" x 5" loaf plan. Bake for 50–60 minutes. Cool completely, and then slice into 12 pieces.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

  • Servings 12.0
  •  
  • Sodium 320 mg
  • Serving Size 1 slice
  •  
  • Carbohydrates 30 g
  • Calories 180
  •  
  • Fiber 1 g
  • Fat 6 g
  •  
  • Sugar 16 g
  • Saturated Fat 4 g
  •  
  • Protein 4 g
  • Cholesterol 30 mg


Monday, September 21, 2015

Will The Panda Express Food Truck Tour Hit Your Neighborhood?



Last week we went to Panda Express to try their Orange Chicken. We have been to this particular Panda Express a couple of times and I have visited them on the road. We would have liked to check out their Panda Express food truck Tour, but it didn't quite reach our neighborhood.


We decided to make a family meal out of Panda Express. My wife and kids love the food and have their own favorites. Orange Chicken is my favorite because I am the particular one in the bunch. We decided to order two meals with three meats and a side. My son picked the noodles and I picked the rice for the side. 


I like Panda Express because their food is good, reasonable and they let you know how many calories you are eating. The people are friendly and they help you find everything you need. My kids and I loved the orange chicken. I remember trying it the first time when I was on a business. I was looking for something to eat for lunch and there was Panda Express. I tried the food and fell in love. The price was just right and there was plenty of good food to eat.

We loved our dinner at Panda Express and I think you will love it too. Check out the Panda Express Food Truck Tour to see if it will stop in your area.





Thursday, September 17, 2015

MadBite Ergonomical Pistol Design Gun Shape Stainless Steel Fish Gripper Review

So everybody knows, this is how my reviews work. I will copy information about the product from Amazon, so you get the information from the companies own mouth about the product I will add a picture, then I will give you an opinion about the product in my own words. I think it is important to have the information from the company and an unbiased opinion, so you know the most about each particular product.

The KastKing Pistol Fish Grip allows you to safely and effectively handle your catch without ever touching the fish. One handed operation allows you to safely remove hooks and lures. Safely grips fish by the lip helps protect yourself as well as the fish. Light weight non-slip rubber handle with stainless steel shaft and Locking Jaw make this Fishing Grip a must have fishing tool. Various styles, features and lengths offered whether fishing from boat, surf or stream. 

 KKEFG-650L: Extended Tube Pistol fish Grip with Scale-Length 11.5 inches-Weight 5.9 Oz-Stainless tube and locking jaw -Non-slip rubber grip with lanyard-nylon sheath with belt clip. Weighs fish to 25Kg/55Lbs- Blue back light display- Battery included-Nylon sheath with belt clip. 

If you don't like holding fish after you catch them, this is the tool for you. I love fishing and I love to catch fish. There are some baits I really hate to use because of the smell. I also don't like the smell of my hands after a long day of fishing. This tool is perfect for somebody like me. This grips really well, it's is soft to the touch and I love the holster it comes with. Now I'm armed and ready for when I catch fish. I used to hate to take catfish off the line, now I have my own secret weapon.

KastKing World Premier Fluorocarbon Fishing Line 200 Meters/218Yds Review

So everybody knows, this is how my reviews work. I will copy information about the product from Amazon, so you get the information from the companies own mouth about the product I will add a picture, then I will give you an opinion about the product in my own words. I think it is important to have the information from the company and an unbiased opinion, so you know the most about each particular product.

Low Visibility: 
Fluorocarbon line has a refractive index that is very similar to water. KastKingTM Fluorocarbon is nearly invisible to fish. This makes KastKingTM Fluorocarbon a fantastic tool for all water conditions , but especially for clear water. 

Low Stretch: 
The low stretch of KastKingTM Fluorocarbon allows for much more solid hook sets, which increases angler's catch rate. Low stretch also makes KastKingTM Fluorocarbon extremely sensitive, increases anglers "feel" of the cover and the bottom composition of areas they are fishing. Enhanced sensitivity also makes it easier to detect the slightest of bites. 
Buoyancy: 
Fluorocarbon line is denser than all other line, which makes it sink. Sinking line helps to get lures down faster and deeper than other lines. KastKingTM Fluorocarbon is a great choice for bottom fishing of all types and for reaching maximum depths from diving baits such as crankbaits. 
Abrasion Resistance: 
KastKingTM Fluorocarbon has outstanding abrasion resistance. It gives anglers peace of mind when fishing around all types of cover such as rocks, submerged wood, docks, or pilings. 
Diameter: 
KastKing Fluorocarbon has a lower diameter-to-strength ratio than most other fluorocarbon lines. 
Low Memory: 
KastKingTM Fluorocarbon has low memory that allows much easier handling and superior castability. 
High Quality - Low Price 
Most high quality fluorocarbon lines are extremely expensive. KastKingTM Fluorocarbon delivers a premium product with superior qualities at a price unmatched by any other brand. Never again will you have to pay high prices for Fluorocarbon line.


I love the new fishing lines out there, this one included. I like how it is clear and the fish only see the bait. I also love that it is very thin, but strong enough to pull the fish in. There is a lot of line here for a very good price. I had no problems fishing and pulling the line through the weeds we always have in the waters of Florida. Another great fishing line for a great price from KastKing.

MadBite Finger Saver Line Tightening ring For Braided line,Fluorocarbon line,Monofilament Review

So everybody knows, this is how my reviews work. I will copy information about the product from Amazon, so you get the information from the companies own mouth about the product I will add a picture, then I will give you an opinion about the product in my own words. I think it is important to have the information from the company and an unbiased opinion, so you know the most about each particular product.

• Corrosion resistant anodized aluminum construction for heavy duty cinching 
• Rubber insert easily grips all types of fishing line especially braided fishing line and keeps it from slipping 
• Great for knot tying, cinching and rigging braided line or monofilament and fluorocarbon 
• Comes in both medium and large finger sizes 
• Makes cinching down knots a breeze without damage to the fingers or hands 
• Medium Width 7mm Diameter 25.9 mm 
• Large Width 7mm Diameter 26.6 mm 

Product description: 

The finger saver line tightening ring protects your fingers while giving you more control and grip when tying fishing knots. New braided line is stronger but thinner which makes it difficult to tie correctly and can cut your fingers and hands when tightening. Loop a bit of line twice around the ring which has an outer rubber grip that grabs the line. This allows you to tighten with more pressure and control. Similar to rings made by Daiichi-Seiko but at a greater cost savings. Anodized aluminum construction for years of use. Correctly tightened line increases
 hookups and decreases lost baits and lures. Works with any type of fishing line. Medium size

I'm always injuring my fingers, so this little tool is a perfect addition to my tackle box. I also am 51, so I also use reading glasses when I mess with line, but this tool will help me live with a little less pain in my fingers. They make the fishing line thinner, but stronger these days.



MadBite Hook Out Fish Hook Remover Review

So everybody knows, this is how my reviews work. I will copy information about the product from Amazon, so you get the information from the companies own mouth about the product I will add a picture, then I will give you an opinion about the product in my own words. I think it is important to have the information from the company and an unbiased opinion, so you know the most about each particular product.

  • 9.5 inch length
  • Stainless steel hook and spring
  • No slip grip textured handles
  • Corrosion resistant anodized aluminum tube
  • Easy one handed operation
The MadBite Stainless Steel or aluminum Fish Hook Remover Tools make fishing hook and fishing lure removal safer for fish and the angler. The comfortable squeeze fish gripper handle gives additional leverage for removing larger fishing hooks and lures. MadBite fishing hook tools are similar to hook removers made by Rapala, Eagle Claw, Mustad, and Berkley but at a much greater savings. The MadBite fish hook grips are designed to grasp the fish hook or lure at any point making it easier to remove. De-hooking a fish at the side of the boat without having to board the fish makes it great for catch and release. Made of rust-resistant stainless steel and aluminum components and easy to use: just squeeze, twist and remove fishing hooks and lures.

I love the idea and use of this product. When you fish in the ocean, you can catch all kinds of fish. You can also catch some fish that you may never want to try to remove the hook from their mouths. I have seen some ugly fish over the years that I didn't even want to touch. It's also nice to now have a tool where I don't have to worry about getting hooked by my own hook. This product is also better for the fish we catch and want to release. Why tear up their mouths if you don't have too?


Wednesday, September 16, 2015

MadBite Fishing Grips Some Models Come with Digital Fishing Scale or Fishing Tape Measure

So everybody knows, this is how my reviews work. I will copy information about the product from Amazon, so you get the information from the companies own mouth about the product I will add a picture, then I will give you an opinion about the product in my own words. I think it is important to have the information from the company and an unbiased opinion, so you know the most about each particular product.


  • Powerful stainless steel jaw and tube with convenient multipurpose lanyard with clip
  • Accurate and easy-to-read battery powered digital fishing scale; Easy battery replacement
  • Easy Trigger design is easy to handle and release fish with one hand
  • Built in handle retractable tape measure up to 39"
  • Max Scale Capacity: 55LB/25KG. Comes with LED scale stability indicator light

The MadBite Fishing Grip allows you to safely and effectively handle your catch without ever touching the fish. One handed operation allows you to safely remove hooks and lures. Safely grips fish by the lip. Helps protect yourself as well as the fish. Light weight non-slip EVA foam or rubber handle with stainless steel shaft and Locking Jaw make these Fishing Grips a must have fishing tool. Various styles, features and lengths offered whether fishing from boat, surf or stream. Great way to grip and weigh your fish.

KastKing Monofilament Fishing Line 6 lb Review

So everybody knows, this is how my reviews work. I will copy information about the product from Amazon, so you get the information from the companies own mouth about the product I will add a picture, then I will give you an opinion about the product in my own words. I think it is important to have the information from the company and an unbiased opinion, so you know the most about each particular product.

  • Unique design of paralleled roll track, lines never sink into the spool
  • Specially made for saltwater fishing
  • Superior abrasion-resistance
  • Soft and supple


We usually use a a higher pound line in salt water. But we went on one of those boats where you only expect to catch the couple pound fish. This monofilament line worked well with my pole and you can't see it. The fish only see the bait and we didn't get tangled up. We kept on fishing and I caught 12 of the small fish. I forgot what they were called, but the fake grouper is what I call them. My wife loved the fish and it was fun. I will continue to use this line on those smaller fish. It is a solid line with a great price. Wish they had a few more sizes to choose from, but the 6 pound line works perfectly for our needs.

MadBite Portable Safety Handle Knife Sharpener and scissors Sharpening Tool Review

So everybody knows, this is how my reviews work. I will copy information about the product from Amazon, so you get the information from the companies own mouth about the product I will add a picture, then I will give you an opinion about the product in my own words. I think it is important to have the information from the company and an unbiased opinion, so you know the most about each particular product.


  • Carbide sharpening blades results in quick razor sharp edges on knives and scissors
  • This handy safe Sharpener will put a quick edge on your blades with just a few strokes
  • Sharpens all types of knives , left or right handed scissors and tools
  • Durable Safety ABS handle provides protection for your hand and fingers
  • Works great for kitchen knives, fillet knives, sport, utility and pocket knives, various tools and scissors
We all need a knife sharpener handy. Especially one that you can take with you camping or on a fishing trip. This handy tool does just what it says it does. It sharpens knives and scissors. We tried it on a pocket knife and it works perfectly. We have a bunch of knives and scissors around the house that will now get sharpened. We will also use it with our filet knife for our fishing. This tool works great and is easy to use.




Friday, September 11, 2015

Publix Coupons That Expire September 24th

$1.00 Off
any ONE (1)
I Can't Believe It's Not Butter!®
(15 oz. or larger) Spread.
 
PRINT COUPON
 
Valid 9/4/15-9/24/15
 
75¢ Off
any ONE (1) Lipton™ Tea
(24 ct.) product.
 
 
PRINT COUPON
 
Valid 9/4/15-9/24/15
 
$1.50 Off
any ONE (1) Hellmann's®
Mayonnaise (30 oz.) product.
 
 
PRINT COUPON
 
Valid 9/4/15-9/24/15
 
$1.50 Off
any TWO (2) Healthy Choice®
SIMPLY Café Steamers
(offer good on ONLY Healthy Choice® SIMPLY).
 

PRINT COUPON
 
Valid 9/4/15-9/24/15
 
$1.50 Off
any ONE (1) Marie Callender's®
Meal Starter
(excludes Marie Callender's® Frozen Meals).
 

PRINT COUPON
 
Valid 9/4/15-9/24/15
 
$1.25 Off
any ONE (1) Banquet®
Brown 'N Serve™
Sausage Bag.
 
PRINT COUPON
 
Valid 9/4/15-9/24/15
 
$1.00 Off
any ONE (1) Swanson®
Broth or Stock (24-32 oz.).
 
 
PRINT COUPON
 
Valid 9/4/15-9/24/15
 
$2.00 Off
any THREE (3) Campbell's®
Chunky™ Cans or Bowls.
 
 
PRINT COUPON
 
Valid 9/4/15-9/24/15
 
$1.00 Off
any ONE (1) Prego®
Sauce (67 oz.).
 
 
PRINT COUPON
 
Valid 9/4/15-9/24/15
 

Sausage and Egg Waffle-wich From Publix

Ingredients
  • PAM® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray
  • 2 frozen Banquet® Brown 'N Serve(tm) Original Sausage patties, chopped
  • 1 cup Egg Beaters® Original
  • 3 tablespoons Fleischmann's® Original Spread-tub
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 8 frozen honey oat waffles, toasted
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Spray 8x8-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray; set aside.
  2. Combine sausage and Egg Beaters; pour into prepared dish. Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until center is set. Cool slightly; cut into 4 squares.
  3. Whisk together Fleischmann's and maple syrup in small bowl until blended.
  4. Assemble 'waffle-wiches' by spreading 1 teaspoon maple spread on each waffle. Place 1 Egg Beaters square between 2 waffles. Repeat with remaining waffles. Cut each in half.
Cook's Tips
To enjoy this on busy weekday mornings, prepare the buttery-maple spread and Egg Beaters squares on the weekend and refrigerate. Heat individual squares during week by microwaving one portion on HIGH about 20 seconds. Assemble waffle-wich as described above.
I made This!
Share your experience now
Nutrition Information
Calories: 291 

Thursday, September 10, 2015

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

The Thunder Egg Review: The Great Thunderbird

Here we have a story about drought about an egg and a little Indian Girl who believed there was something special within a special rock.Stands-By-Herself was a little Indian girl who lived on the plains and her people were dealing with a terrible drought. This cute little children's books shows us a little girl who learns that it is more important to think about others before ourselves. The author brings in an old folktale tradition about Plains tribes. The rock is a geode, that breaks open to show a beautiful purple quartz. The tradition is the the Thunderbird brings the thunder and along with it comes much needed rain. This little story shows how the little Indian girl believed that her rock was important and it brought important rain to her people. The book is filled with beautiful illustrations and a well written story that can be read at night time when you want to read to your children as they try to get to sleep. It is a very cool way to share a traditional story about Indians with your children. What a cute/great way to teach your children history.

I received this book for free, the review is my own.