Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Dating Tips...LOL

I'm so sorry but I have been listening to so many songs on the radio. It got me thinking.

For what it's worth, I'd like to share some knowledge that I've collected over the years, guys.

1. No matter what any of the young females say, we still like you to behave like a gentleman. Don't grab us, hoot and holler or act like a "playa." It's immature...and gross.

2. Don't hate on our family and don't expect us to like your family if they hate on us. Hate is a pretty nasty thing to do to a person.

3. Get it straight, most women don't care how much money you make. If a girl is a "gold-digger", why are you dating her in the first place? You are obviously the type that only goes for looks as you wouldn't date a girl who was after your money if you weren't. So, why then, you ask, do we still like you to pay for things? We want to know that you will do anything for us, duh. If I break the bank for you, don't buy me a cheap-a** journey necklace and call it real. We know real from fake. It's in our DNA. Yeah, I did, I said it.

4. Lying is just not cool. Every relationship is built on trust. Even the one I have with my little brother. If I lie to him, he's going to think I'm a punk. If you lie to me, I'm going to know you are a punk.

5. Be a giver. If you think a woman has to do all of the work, all of the time, you all ready lost her. Sometimes giving means receiving...information. You have to listen to the words that are coming out of her mouth. If she says she doesn't like you to touch her toes, leave them alone. If she likes backrubs, hello!!! Give her one. Most women will return the favor. You will know if you don't do those things because she will simply be turned off from you all of the time.

Now, young men and women, do me a favor and treat each other with common courtesy. It's really hard to be nice to someone who is mean to everyone all day long. I sure hope this has been helpful to SOMEONE. LOL. Good luck out there!!!

Here is one of the many songs I have heard that make me think that maybe people have lost touch with one another:

Turnin Me On by Keri Hilson featuring Lil Wayne

Please don't turn me off
Yeah Like this
Where you at shawty
You fly as hell, swagga right, brown skin poppin
You know just how to talk to me
Know just how I like it
You turnin' me on, you turnin' me on, you turnin' me on

Now wait a minute little buster
You got one more time to feel on my booty
Better recognize a lady
That ain't the way you do me
You turnin' me off, you turnin' me off, you turnin' me off
Better recognize a real woman (aaahhh)

You ever try to get that close to me
You better come correct how you 'proachin me
Dime divas give it to me (aaahhh) I gotta be feelin' your energy
I gotta be for sure that you're into me
Recognize a real woman

Goin up on it, you actin like you want it
And you stuntin like your daddy checkin for this little mama
You turnin me on, you turnin me on, you turnin me on

Wait a minute little buster
Now you don't even know me but you wanna take me shopping
You a lame, I can tell it ain't big shit poppin
You turnin me off, you turnin me off, you turnin me off
Better recognize a real woman

All you wanna do is
Holla at the cutest
Broad to get up in them draws
Got money
Don't try to buy me
Bottles, got my own dollars
I could buy up the bar if I want it (aaahhh)

You ever try to get that close to me
You better come correct how you 'proachin me
Dime divas give it to me (aaahhh)
I gotta be feelin your energy
I gotta be for sure that you're into me
Recognize a real woman

[Lil Wayne:] Eh eh eh I'm I'm fly as hell swagger right, brown skin poppin like dynamite
Raw like china white, mami I dig your persona right
You dat baby mama type
I know I got you kinda hype
My ices elbino white
And I hope that ur vagina tight I go underwater and I hope your parana bite hot carter,
Ima kiss the spot for you
Ima kiss it to you scream
Wait a minute motherf**ker turn you on like a handle
Like the television on a weather channel cause
I make it rain girl
Now call me wayne girl
You just been on earth but you never been to wayne's world
I play to win, and i bait em in
I just do my thing now you're in love with an alien
Polow on the beat and yeah, weezy f is on the plate again
Keri if you pitch it at me i'm a swing away at it
Someone better play the fence, someone better tell them bout me
Baby I'm the shit and that's the only thing you smell around me
Weezy f baby and don't forget the F around me
And if you do then get the F from round me, you're turnin me off yeah yeah
Polow I told you I got you Ms. Keri Baby (2x) (aaahhh)

You ever try to get that close to me
You better come correct how you 'proachin me
Dime divas give it to me (aaahhh)
I gotta be feelin your energy
I gotta be for sure that you're into me
Recognize a real woman
[Lil Wayne:]uhuu yeaah Ms. Keri baby young Weezy baby, it's young money baby..

P.S. Here is a link to the video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcgrzP_CBlI

Droppin' the ball!!!

I am excited to be able to bring in the new year with my readers. :)

What is even more exciting is that Nika's Land is getting more readers every day.

It has been difficult for me to find a focus to write about on the blog because I love to write about everything. That is why I write about so many different things. Hopefully it only serves to keep you curious about what I might be writing about next.

If you do find yourself not enjoying the content, feel free to leave me suggestions about what you would be interested in learning about. I am always open to constructive criticism.

Thank-you everyone for your interest and support!!! MUA!!!

Your's Truly,
Nika

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Spoof!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jqmcb1jRwtM

This is a really funny spoof on Lil Wayne's "Mrs. Officer." You should check it out.

Saturday, December 27, 2008

Stalkers: Who are they? Why do they stalk?

There isn't one stereotypical stalker.

Stalkers come in all shapes and sizes, cultural backgrounds and economic classes.

One thing they do have in common: obsession.

Several characteristics and situations factor into someone becoming a stalker. Does that excuse the behavior? Absolutely not.

What has been determined is that most stalkers are male. They often have a history of criminal, psychiatric or substance abuse. Immigration is also a deciding factor in whether or not a person may become a stalker. A person who has immigrated may be experiencing culture shock, acculturation or a sense of loss. Relationship problems, defense mechanisms (i.e. blaming), loss of a loved one and sexual disfunction are also common triggers. Stalkers are also very likely to participate in domestic violence.

The definition of stalking as provided by http://www.stalkingbehavior.com is:

"a persistent pattern of conduct that is not wanted by the person to whom it is directed, and may include, but is not limited to, any of the following behaviors:
  • Telephoning

  • Surveillance

  • Following/Pursuit (e.g., by car, on foot)

  • Culturally inappropriate courtship behaviors (e.g., bluntly asking for sex)

  • Trespassing

  • Sending unwanted letters

  • Cyberstalking (e.g., unwanted and harassing e-mail, or instant messaging)

  • Sending unwanted gifts/items (e.g., romantic, bizarre, sinister, or perverted)

  • Attempts to “save” or “rescue” (e.g., from an "immoral life" or an unpleasant situation)

  • Spreading false rumors about the alleged victim of stalking

  • Threats to harm the alleged victim, others, or oneself

  • Property damage

    Stalking behavior can best be conceptualized as existing on a continuum, from low intensity to high intensity. In other words, at one end of the range the behaviors are mild, less intrusive and non-persistent behaviors perceived by others as inappropriate, problematic, and harassing. At the extreme end of the continuum are severe, persistent, or aggressive forms of pursuant behaviors.


If you are being stalked, contact your local authorities immediately. If you are a stalker, it is a crime. You can be charged with a misdemeanor and must pay a $1000 fine. It is considered a felony if you violate a PPO, a condition of bail or probation or if it's a second offense or there is a credible threat. For more information, visit http://www.stalkingbehavior.com , http://www.stalkingvictims.com or http://www.ncvc.org .

Friday, December 26, 2008


This is an amazing recipe from Lydia's Italy. Her food makes my mouth water just reading the ingredients. I think I was supposed to be Italian. Visit http://www.lydiasitaly.com/ to find more of her delicious recipes.


Chicken Cacciatora with Eggplant

Pollo alla Cacciatora con Melanzane
Serves 6

2 or 3 small firm eggplants (1 pound total)

2 teaspoons coarse sea salt or kosher salt, or to taste

3-1/2 pound chicken (preferably organic), trimmed and cut in pieces

1 cup vegetable oil

1 or 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

½ cup bacon, chopped into small bits (2 thick-cut strips)

6 garlic cloves, crushed and peeled

½ teaspoon peperoncino, or to taste

1 cup dry white wine

3 cups (or a 28-ounce can) canned Italian plum tomatoes, preferably San Marzano, crushed by hand

2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley


Recommended equipment:A heavy-bottomed skillet for frying the eggplant and chicken, 12-inch diameter
A heavy-bottomed saucepan or saute pan, with sides 3 or 4 inches high and 12 inches in diameter or wider, with a cover.


Trim the eggplants and slice them (skin on) into chunks 2-inches long and 1-inch thick. Toss them with 1 teaspoon of salt and drain in a colander for 30 minutes to an hour. Rinse and pat them dry with paper towels. Rinse the chicken pieces, pat them dry as well and season all over with ½ teaspoon salt, so they’re ready for frying after the eggplant.
Pour the vegetable oil in the skillet and set over medium-high heat. Sprinkle flour over the eggplant chunks, dusting them on all sides. Spread them in the hot oil in one layer, leave them in place until sizzling, then turn and toss until nicely browned on all sides, about 4 minutes. Lift out the eggplant chunks with a slotted spoon, leaving the oil in the pan, and spread them on paper towels to drain.
With the skillet again over medium-high heat, lay in all the chicken pieces in one layer in the hot oil. Let them sizzle in place for a minute or two, coloring the underside, then turn to brown another side. Fry the chicken, turning frequently, until each piece is golden all over, 6 minutes or longer. As the pieces are done, lift them and let the oil drain off and set on a platter.
Meanwhile, start the sauce in the deeper pan (or wait until you’ve finished frying the eggplant and chicken, if you prefer). Pour in the 2 tablespoons olive oil and set the pan over medium-high heat. Stir in the chopped bacon and cook until the fat starts to render, then scatter in the garlic cloves and peperoncino flakes. Cook, stirring and tossing, until the bacon and garlic are lightly colored.
Pour in the wine, stir well and raise the heat. Boil for a minute or so until the wine is reduced by half. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Slosh a cup of water in the tomato container to rinse them clean and stir in along with another ½ teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil and adjust the heat to keep the sauce perking steadily.
One at a time, submerge all the browned chicken pieces in tomato sauce and pour in any juices collected in the platter. Return the sauce to a bubbling simmer and set the cover slightly ajar. Simmer the chicken for about 20 minutes, then drop the eggplant chunks on the top of the sauce. Don’t push or mush the eggplant down but shift the chicken aside so the eggplant chunks fall into the sauce and are completely covered.
Heat until simmering again and cook 10 minutes or so, until the chicken and eggplant are cooked through and tender. Leave the pot uncovered if you want the sauce to reduce and thicken. Near the end of cooking, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning.
Remove the pan from the heat and let the dish rest for 20 minutes before serving. Or let it cool in the pan and reheat slowly, gently turning the pieces in the sauce. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken and sauce.

Spicy :P


Is it the woman's fault?

Violent Behavior is an Abuser's Choice

  • Reasons we know an abuser's behaviors are not about anger and rage:
    He does not batter other individuals - the boss who does not give him time off or the gas station attendant that spills gas down the side of his car. He waits until there are no witnesses and abuses the person he says he loves.

  • If you ask an abused woman, "can he stop when the phone rings or the police come to the door?" She will say "yes". Most often when the police show up, he is looking calm, cool and collected and she is the one who may look hysterical. If he were truly "out of control" he would not be able to stop himself when it is to his advantage to do so.

  • The abuser very often escalates from pushing and shoving to hitting in places where the bruises and marks will not show. If he were "out of control" or "in a rage" he would not be able to direct or limit where his kicks or punches land.

Source: Mid-Valley Women's Crisis Service

http://www.helpguide.org/mental/domestic_violence_abuse_types_signs_causes_effects.htm

*****A personal note to all of my readers: From now on, I am going to be posting FACTS about domestic violence from time to time. I will site the source and the link.*****

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

New President Brings Good Changes

We all know that Bush is the oil man.

I am so happy he is out of office. I have to admit, I wasn't a 100% Obama Mama. I would have rather it had been Clinton but you will hear no complaints from me. Gas prices are down. Let's hope they stay down.

I live in a shopping mecca and still we struggle to find work. It's unfortunate but maybe with the decrease in gas prices there will be an increase in demand in other areas which will stimulate the economy.

For those of you who are strapped, hold on tight, we will make it through. I feel the pressure of lack of funds daily, as I have children who have needs. School activities, diapers, clothes...those are only a few things that I struggle with.

I think as the year goes on, despite what the economists say, we may see things get a little brighter. Jobs are scarce, true. It will be a long time before we have a surplus of money in the national budget. I still have hope. Obama has given me some hope.

God Bless!!!

Friday, November 21, 2008

You Can Have Whatever You Like by T.I.



You know the old sugar daddies
they be trickin,' they tell them girls

I said, you can have whatever you like (You like)
I said, you can have whatever you like (You like, yeah)

Stacks on deck, Patrón on ice
And we can pop bottles all night
And baby, you can have whatever you like (You like)
I said, you can have whatever you like (You like, yeah)
Baby, I can treat you so special, so nice
Gas up the jet for you tonight
And baby you can go wherever you like (You like)
I said, you can go wherever you like (You like, yeah)

Any time you want to pick up the telephone, you
Know it ain't nothin' to drop a couple stacks on you
You want it, you can get it, my dear
5 million dollar homes, drop Bentleys I swear

Yeah, I want your body, need your body
Long as you got me, you won't need nobody
You want it, I got it, go get it, I buy it
Tell them other broke joker, "be quiet"

Stacks on deck, Patrón on ice
And we can pop bottles all night
And baby, you can have whatever you like (You like)
I said, you can have whatever you like (You like, yeah)
Baby, I can treat you so special, so nice
Gas up the jet for you tonight
And baby you can go wherever you like (You like)
I said, you can go wherever you like (You like, yeah)

Shawty you the hottest, love the way you drop it
Brain's so good, I s'pose you went to college
$100k deposit, vacations in the tropics
Everybody know it ain't trickin' if ya got it
And ya ain't never ever gotta go in your wallet
Long as I got rubberband banks in my pocket
5'6", drives with rims and a body kit
Ya ain't gotta downgrade, you can get what I get

My chick can have what she want
And go in any store, buy any bag she want
I noticed you ain't never had a man like that
To buy you anything your heart desire like that

Yeah, I want your body, need your body
Long as you got me, you won't need nobody
You want it, I got it, go get it, I buy it
Tell them other broke joker, "be quiet"

Stacks on deck, Patrón on ice
And we can pop bottles all night
And baby, you can have whatever you like (You like)
I said, you can have whatever you like (You like, yeah)
Baby, I can treat you so special, so nice
Gas up the jet for you tonight
And baby you can go wherever you like (You like)
I said, you can go wherever you like (You like, yeah)

I'm talkin' big boy rides and big boy ice
Let me put this big boy in your life
Girl, you smell so fresh and look so nice
Let me put this big boy in your life, that's right

I want your body, need your body
Long as you got me, you won't need nobody
You want it, I got it, go get it, I buy it
Tell them other broke joker, "be quiet"

Stacks on deck, Patrón on ice
And we can pop bottles all night
And baby, you can have whatever you like (You like)
I said, you can have whatever you like (You like, yeah)
Baby I can treat you so special, so nice
Gas up the jet for you tonight
And baby you can go wherever you like (You like)
I said, you can go wherever you like (You like, yeah)

What's Going On???

I know my readers are thinking, why has this blog been so sporadic?

Well, I can tell you why. I was married two years ago and ever since then I have not been able to do the things that I like to do, such as journalism, such as my photography, such as being around people that I like, friends and family.

As of October 18, 2008 that was all over. I chose to leave. I had a heck of a time actually getting out of the house in one piece but I did it. So here I am, alive and well. I have my children and we are safe. So from here on out, I can take care of the things that are important to me:

1) My Children.
2) Work.
3) My Bachelors Degree.
4) My Journalism and Photography, any websites I manage.

I just want my readers to know that my life is not going to be on hold any longer and that I encourage you to stay with me. I just mailed out my divorce papers, so I guess that means I am free.

I am updating all of the sections of the site now. Have a great weekend!!!

~Nika

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Beautiful People

Life is giving me many great opportunities right now. One is that I am living in the Detroit area and coming into contact with some phenomenal artists. I am starting to experience life the way I always wanted to, surrounded by naturally talented people, people with heart and soul. People, that if you took away all of the gadgets, could function with just their bare hands.

I am working on my photo business and with some help of a few great friends and family, it is taking off. Time seems to be an issue, along with getting all of my work together but I am going to take that time and use it to keep focused.

I wanted to thank everyone who has supported my photography and writing all these years. When I was in school, many people said, "you can't do photography and journalism AND have children." You people suck. Those of you who stood by me, rock on!!! I can and I will do it. I am a different breed.

Thanks again for your support!!!

~Nika

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Love Quotes

Even after all this time

The sun never says to the earth "you owe me".

Look what happens with a Love like that!

- It lights the whole Sky. (Hafiz)


“I was in love with love.” (St. Augustine)

"Love is a temporary madness. It erupts like an earthquake and then subsides. And when it subsides you have to make a decision. You have to work out whether your roots have become so entwined together that it is inconceivable that you should ever part. Because this is what love is. Love is not breathlessness, it is not excitement, it is not the promulgation of promises of eternal passion. That is just being "in love" which any of us can convince ourselves we are.

Love itself is what is left over when being in love has burned away, and this is both an art and a fortunate accident. Your mother and I had it, we had roots that grew towards each other underground, and when all the pretty blossom had fallen from our branches we found that we were one tree and not two.
- Captain Corelli's Mandolin.

"In real love you want the other person's good. In romantic love you want the other person."
--Margaret Anderson

"In my wildest dreams, you always play the hero. In my darkest hour of night, you rescue me, you save my life."
--Bliss and Cerney

Sunday, October 12, 2008

Here is a Game I found...Be Careful...

Be Prepared...

This is October, ladies and gentlemen...Halloween is near. This is one of my favorite times of the year because I get to get all of the creepy, gross, make-your-skin-crawl type of stuff out of my system that has been simmering for the past eleven months. Hers is a tribute to my most favorite season of all, next to Christmas, of course...Thriller!!! P.S. YouTube does not allow you to embed the original Micheal Jackson version, so here is something fun that I found instead. :)

Mmm...True Blood



What can I say? I missed my show tonight and I really had to watch the main vampire again...ahh...first blood. Lol. If you know me, I am a horror fan. There is just something sexy about the undead. I know, that's creepy. So what?!

~Nika

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Respect

How do you know if you have disrepected someone?

It's not an easy thing to please everyone. You don't know everyone's boundaries, culture, class, morals, etc. You don't know how sensitive a person can be given certain situations. I am not an easy person to offend.

There are certain things that should make you question yourself if you find yourself always doing them and always ending up with the same results. I'm not a preacher. Quite frankly, I am a sinner. I have bad thoughts pretty much all day long, dispersed amongst thoughts of kindness, guilt, empathy, love, sadness, anger and all the others.

There is something, that yes, I learned about in Sundsy School. It's called the Golden Rule. It basically says "Do unto others as you'd have done unto yourself."

Then along with it come the Ten Commandments and the story about Jesus that says "An eye for an eye," which does not mean take revenge, it means to offer them your other eye, for the one that they've all ready poked out.

Where I fall in all of this is not quite defined. I have found myself in the past wanting revenge. That doesn't suit me anymore. I have tried offering my other eye, only to find that it does get poked out. I am looking at the middle road, the grey area, where the answer is not definite but it's not evil either.

How do you continue on after being disrespected in such a deep way without hurting the person who disrespected you? I think the answer is quite simple: don't pay those thoughts any mind anymore. I am just going to have to carry on doing what I think is right and nevermind what anyone else thinks.

When I was in school, my mother told me not to ever start a fight but to finish it or at least make sure I can protect myself. I will protect myself and if that means I have to finish a fight, so be it but I vow that I will not hurt anyone out of revenge or spite or hatred.

I just want to be respected.

Saturday, October 4, 2008

Detroit City in Da House!!!

I don't know about you but I have been noticing that Detroit is coming ALIVE!!!

When I was little, my mother and my aunts and cousins always warned me that Detroit was a dangerous place to go and would tell me about their experiences when they had been brave enough to venture down there.

Honestly though, I love Detroit. Every time I go I have a blast. I love the city lights. The people are so interesting and friendly. I feel beautiful just walking down the street.

Sure it has it's junkies, it's prostitutes and homeless people. It has it's run-down, spooky looking old houses and buildings but the city has some bang!!!

Detroit has undergone a severely needed facelift within the past few years and I am proud to say that, well, it's not exactly where I live but if I were single, it is exactly where I would live.

I have recently had the opportunity to visit some of it's clubs, casinos and stores, get to know some of it's fascinating people and just enjoy the view.

This post seems eerily familiar...It feels as if I have written something similar to it before, bragging about Detroit. I don't know...but I just wanted to say that I think it has a lot of potential and is going to be offering me many opportunities in the very near future. Cheers!!!

~Nika


Some places to visit downtown:

1.Ignite- MGM Grand Casino
2.Squindles African Restaurant
3. Bleu Room Experience
4. Motor City Casino
5. Comerica Park

James Bond: Quantum of Solace

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

The First Five Years

In today's society, a good marriage is not easy to come by.

People just don't understand how much hard work being married is. Marriage is not just about sex. It is not just about communication. It is not just about children or money. It is so complicated. It involves emotions, life decisions, both of your families, your friends and your lifestyle. If you are getting married, be prepared to give up your old life. Be prepared to change.

I decided to do a little research, being a married woman myself, and see what the "experts" say about the first five years of marriage. Well, that just about sums it up. You have to learn to change, to accept another person's quirks, to deny yourself a few things along the line and to become a dependable,loving, unselfish person. One person cannot fill your every desire at the snap of your fingers. Marriage takes time. You have to learn how to navigate and how not to give up.

I think one of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming that just because you don't feel the same way about the person that you did when you met them means that you don't love them anymore or that they don't love you. I can tell you, if you've loved someone, you've definitely hated them at some point. People who are always around you will eventually get on your nerves for some reason or another. I'm not a marriage counselor or any kind of an expert at all, shoot, I've only just been married two years. I can tell you this much though, if you want to stay married, you had better be one determined couple.

The things married people have to go through just to get to know one another is just outright ridiculous sometimes. We have so much depth as human beings. We also, as humans, have many, many flaws. Some of us talk too much. Some of us don't talk enough. Some of us cannot listen to save our life. Others just choose to ignore everything and do things their own way. Factor in all of the men and women just waiting to break up your marriage, your parents, your in-laws, your children, money and just life itself, I think you need some major cajones to even make it to committed.

Before I was married, I was counseled to read the book, "The Five Love Languages," and I found it helped me a lot. The problem was, I wasn't quite sure what my husband's love language is. I think I know it now. For me, it's verbal. I have to have compliments. Call me conceded but I thrive on his compliments and other's as well. The only other thing that I know has kept me as deeply committed as I am is pure determination and general knowledge of the sweet side of my husband. When he is good, he is fantastic but when he is bad...oy.

Another factor of marriage is love. So many people think love is a feeling. I do not agree. If it was, then it would come and go just like the rain. Love is a combination of things: honesty, trust, respect and devotion, to name a few. And you can't just pick to love one person, you have to be a loving person to love. I think it then transcends to finding someone who you really click with. Love shouldn't be mistaken for that giddy feeling you get in the beginning of a relationship. It is much, much deeper than that and it requires nurturing.

Anyway, back to my point, the first five years can spell serious disaster for those people who do not respect them. It is my opinion that to stay married, you have to really spend a lot of time in those first five years learning as much as you can.

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

The Bad Credit Drug

Would you like to open a charge account and save 10%?

In every line in every store across every town in this country you hear that question.

As an American, I am guilty of falling for the credit card. It is a drug. You think, oh, man, they just gave me a credit line of $2,000!!! Do you know what I can buy with that? I know it's going to take me the next two years to pay it off with only a $20 per month fee but hey, I really want that plasma t.v.!!!

Luckily for me, I only have one credit card that's ever really done any damage. It only happened because the company handling my account pulled a dirty trick. They changed my payment date from the 21st of the month to the 20th and never even told me.

On the other hand, I have student loans and car loans that are all racking up hefty fees.

How on earth are we ever supposed to get out of debt with all of these creditors breathing down our necks making us crazy? It just makes us want to go out and spend more money to get away from it all, on credit, of course, because all of our real money is tied up in bills.

Well, I am finally owning up to my addiction and getting some help. I found a company called Christian Credit Counselors who, within ten minutes of my application being submitted, called me and got right to summing up my bills.

I plan on not making any purchases unless I have the cash. That was how I did it in the good old days, before I decided to "build my credit." (The sound of creditor's hysterical laughter in the background.)

You can check them out at http://www.CCCFree.com

Monday, September 22, 2008

E! Best Bikini Bodies of 2008

My Favorite Season Premieres

1. True Blood, Sunday night at 9 p.m. on HBO (This one was new three weeks ago.)
2. Life, Monday September 29, 10 p.m. on NBC
3. Two and a Half Men, tonight 8 p.m. on CBS
4. Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles tonight at 8 p.m. on Fox

These are my favorites in order from the one I cannot miss to the ones that I switch in between. I hope you will give them a try and enjoy them as much as I do!!!
Check them out on www.HBO.com , www.NBC.com , www.CBS.com , and www.Fox.com

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Problems with Photos

For those of you interested in seeing some of my photos, I am currently having a problem uploading them to Blogger.com. I will fix this soon. Thank-you for your patience.

Sincerely,
Nika

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Disturbia

To Boob or Not to Boob

Today's society requires that you look your best at all times or you will simply be humiliated. When did being a woman become so hard? I remember when the boys only cared that you had jugs, not that they were perfect.

Let's face it, it's a real drag on the self-esteem.

That is the reason for this whole discussion. Sorry, but it has to be discussed.
I am looking into getting a "Mommy Makeover" due to the fact that I have had three children and it is wreaking havoc on my body. Working out can only do so much. It doesn't get rid of stretch marks or darkened aeroles. All it does is put muscle behind where your boobs used to be.

Currently, I am down to the same weight as I was in high school, a whopping 115 lbs. I am actually trying to gain weight. My hubby has been great about helping me find good workouts that actually achieve results. Crunches, leg lifts, push-ups and yoga...your basics...they all work...but they only do so much. They cannot fix all of the damage that childbirthing does.

I'm not looking to undue everything...just this one little area. The one little area that seems to make the world go round.

The question that I have is, will it be worth it? Am I going to feel better about myself? Or am I going to think to myself how stupid and superficial am I that I have to do this to make myself feel good anyway? Am I just like the other bimbos walking around Silicone Valley?

Over the years I have thought these things about women who go and get breast procedures. I think they are only doing it to get attention, unless of course, it was done after a mastectomy. I even wrote a term paper about why I would never get one. At that time, it was dangerous due to the silicone implants on the market.

Here's a thought though, whether you were born flat as a board, you nursed or you had to have your breasts removed from cancer...all of the above have done nothing but utterly destroy your self-confidence and made your feel like less of a person and therefore, you deserve to feel beautiful again.

Here are a few sites to look at if you'd like to see the procedures: http://www.michellehardawaymd.com and http://www.anewyou.com

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Photography

Those of you who know me very well, know that I am in love with photography. Why then, haven't I been doing my photography lately? Well, as much as I love to photograph my family, I simply cannot photograph their every move. They get annoyed. Besides that, I like to photograph things that you have not seen before. I like to play visual tricks on people with the camera. I need to diversify.

I recently started working at a photo lab so I could gain more experience. If you are a photographer, then you know that you can never get enough experience. Any experience processing film is worth it if you plan to open a studio yourself one day.

For giggles, I found a blog that showcases the interesting kind of photography that I enjoy. I have it listed in my "Sites I Visit Ever Week" section. It is called "a picture a day keeps the doctor away". This guy has such a wonderful eye. Yes, I am rhyming. Call me nutty, call my funny, call me Dr. Seuss for all I care. Just go to the site.

Thursday, August 21, 2008

A Sample from AlbinoBlacksheep.com

http://www.albinoblacksheep.com/flash/bushsound


You will love this!!!

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Is Prostitution a Crime?

I recently had an experience of which both surprised and disgusted me and although I have been advised not to gossip, I do need to have an outlet.

I came across some persons who I thought were in the business of trading sex for money. The people were of very different backgrounds and age ranges. It was pretty obvious to me and others who were around what was going on.

Just like the rest of society, I have my own opinions about things. I try not to be a judgemental person. This situation makes me question a few things though.

I have to know what it is that drives people to do things like this. And not from a judgemental view, from a health view. From a self-respect view. From a mother's view.

I am a writer. I'd like to consider myself a history buff, too. A humanitarian and a loving person. Definitely a sexual person. A person with the some wants and desires as the next and maybe even more.

I commend the men and women who have to do this because they have no other options. I don't think I could. There are just too many things at risk. I apologize to anyone reading this that is offended. It is not meant to be offensive, just thought provoking.

There are many countries and even in some parts of Nevada where prostitution is legal. I have seen documentaries about it that discuss the pros and cons of the job. I have read books. "Why?" you ask. It's just an interesting topic, like the legalization of marijuana. I typically don't see things in black and white,therefore, these kinds of things cross my mind from time to time. I believe there is an exception to every rule. So, I tend to side with the underdog on occasion.

So what is my opinion? Well, I know many people who have been in the business all of their lives and some for portions of it. It is dangerous, on all counts. It can be rewarding knowing that you did help someone. It can help you feel better to know that maybe you kept someone from being raped or kept someone who was very lonely from being alone. But I don't like it. I believe the body is a treasure, to be kept safe from all harm. There is an exception to every rule I say, so as long as no one is in danger, I don't see the need to keep it illegal.

I wish that everyone was honest though. I continuously see news reports of married people going behind each other's back cheating with a prostitute. That's not fair. It's not easy to be married, I know that. But cheating is cheating. You are hurting someone and that I do not agree with.

I am going to leave this up to my readers to decide for themselves. I hope that a lot of thought is put into your words before you comment because you never know who you could be hurting.

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Caring for the Elderly


This is a topic that is seldom thought about or talked about by anyone that I know. At least, it doesn't come up in conversations as often as say, alcohol, does. Know what I mean?

Old people. According to my recent medical training, there are three types of old people: the young old, the old and the old, old.

"What does that mean?" you say.

Well, it means that the elderly are categorized a bit so we can have an idea of what we may be in for as caregivers. Although, I think they tend to surprise us more often than we'd like to admit.

I recently spent a week of clinicals working at an old-folks home. It was quite the experience. Yes, I had to change incontinence pads. Yes it was gross. No I would not like to share that experience with you.

But I got a lot more out of it than that. What I got was that these people really just want the same love and affection that you and I want but they seem to have been forgotten by everyone else. I do not understand it myself. I got the best advice that anyone in the past two years has given me from someone I barely know and will probably never see again, in just a random conversation.

The little lady said to me that people these days just don't put enough effort into their marriages. They let them fall apart. They don't nurture one another. She told me that if I ever had any problems that I need to remember to nurture. I know she was right. And I never even brought up the fact that I am in an interracial relationship and how many people have thought it would not work out because we have so many differences.

I encourage you to try to spend more time with someone elderly. The advice they give is timeless because really, what is time but man-made anyway? The only difference between our time and their time of life is what technology has made easier for us. We all still have the same problems and we all still strive for the same things.

Saturday, August 9, 2008

Saucy Tunes

Last night I had the opportunity to go to a concert with my friend and sister-in-law, Dee, to see John Butler, G-Love and Special Sauce and a couple of other bands.

Let me be honest, I was thinking that I would be in for some kind of John Mayor ho-down or something. I was happily disappointed. As it turns out, the two above-mentioned bands totally rocked and rapped the house. I was pretty surprised. Happily surprised. I would even go as far as saying impressed.

Their most famous song to date is, "Baby's Got Sauce," which I have posted here so you can decide for yourself if it is as good as I think it is.

I think what actually impressed me the most was the many talents that the lead singer of G-Love and Special Sauce had. He can sing, rap, play the guitar and the harmonic and I don't mean just play. I mean he can play.

It was clear to me that the bands involved were not influenced by just one genre of music. I heard reggae, rap, rock, blues and even a little bluegrass. It was nice to see a band perform that actually had talent. It gives me hope.

For a sample of what I heard go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6kGSN0P8HA

Monday, August 4, 2008

Return from Studies

Sorry to have been gone for so long but I have been taking an accelerated course in some medical studies for the past three weeks. I am working on my clinicals currently and it has taken up every second of everyday this month.

On a good note, I am getting the highest grade in my class so far. :)

I am getting back to keeping my blog updated, so bare with me as I finish this course and return back to reality.

Sincerely,
Nika

Friday, June 27, 2008

The Family:La Familia:La Famiglia:La Famille

I'm going to begin by showing you what the Merriam-Webster's definition of family is:



Main Entry: 1fam·i·ly
Pronunciation: \ˈfam-lē, ˈfa-mə-\
Function: noun
Inflected Form(s): plural fam·i·lies
Etymology: Middle English familie, from Latin familia household (including servants as well as kin of the householder), from famulus servant
Date: 15th century
1: a group of individuals living under one roof and usually under one head : household
2 a: a group of persons of common ancestry : clan b: a people or group of peoples regarded as deriving from a common stock : race
3 a: a group of people united by certain convictions or a common affiliation : fellowship b: the staff of a high official (as the President)
4: a group of things related by common characteristics: as a: a closely related series of elements or chemical compounds b: a group of soils with similar chemical and physical properties (as texture, pH, and mineral content) that comprise a category ranking above the series and below the subgroup in soil classification c: a group of related languages descended from a single ancestral language
5 a: the basic unit in society traditionally consisting of two parents rearing their children; also : any of various social units differing from but regarded as equivalent to the traditional family a single-parent family b: spouse and children
6 a: a group of related plants or animals forming a category ranking above a genus and below an order and usually comprising several to many genera bin livestock breeding (1): the descendants or line of a particular individual especially of some outstanding female (2): an identifiable strain within a breed
7: a set of curves or surfaces whose equations differ only in parameters
8: a unit of a crime syndicate (as the Mafia) operating within a geographic area
— fam·i·ly·hood \-ˌhu̇d\ noun


If you cannot see where I am going with this, let me explain. In the past, I have been with many families. I was born into a family. I lived with a family that was not technically my own but I became one of them briefly. I was adopted into a family and then I was married into a family.

To me, family is a group of people of which I belong. They accept me. Sometimes they don't like what I do but they still love me and want me to succeed. They help me get on the right path when I am going down the wrong one.

Family is always there. They don't leave you behind. They don't cast you aside. They pick you up when you are down. They may criticize you but they always show you the right way to do it. Even if it means holding your hand the whole time. They keep you with them so that they can guide you along the rocky roads.

It is important, that last sentence. Family stays with you no matter what.

That is all I have to say.

Friday, June 13, 2008

Obama's Blue Print for Change

Finally I have found the link to Obama's campaign information. Hopefully you all will read this and make a more informed decision on who to vote for. http://www.barackobama.com/pdf/ObamaBlueprintForChange.pdf

One thing is for sure...if you are thinking that voting for McCain is a better choice (especially for women's rights) think again. He is Republican. I urge everyone to not set us back fifty years by putting this guy into office. We need reproductive freedoms. As for those of you less informed about this issue, even when abortion was "illegal" the government was still issuing them to mentally handicapped people and those people who were deemed crazy, once again, abusing their power.

And for those unlucky women who were raped or just weren't ready to have children, they had to go to uncertified doctors on the side who sometimes did hack jobs on them. I try not to be too pushy on this subject but really abortion is more a health issue than a religious one anymore. People are going to do it no matter what you believe. Although I have never been in a situation that merits the decision I feel that there is always an exception to the rule, therefore everyone deserves the right to choose for themselves.

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Interesting Fact

As I was googling my site's name to see if it came up anywhere (so far it has not) I discovered a website that has an English-Chinook dictionary on it.

In this dictionary, the word Nika presents itself. I thought that was neat, so I decided to take a look.

The word nika means my, mine or myself. I thought that was appropriate since the name of my website is Nika's Land or My Land.

Just a little tidbit I thought I'd throw your way. :)

Here's the site: http://www.cayoosh.net/hiyu/shaw6.html

~Nika

Monday, June 9, 2008

Sent From Heaven


Song lyrics | Heaven Sent lyrics


I am dedicating this post to my husband because no matter all of the differences, we still have more in common. I love you and Happy Birthday!!!

Thursday, June 5, 2008

Literature for Free

I have discovered a website for all of you book worms out there. It is called www.DailyLit.com .

I love it!!! All you have to do is search for your book and it finds it, lists whether or not you must pay to read it, click and read!!! Several of the classics are free to read and those that are not free are very well priced.

A few good reads listed for free are, "War and Peace," "Women in Love," and "Three Men and a Maid."

I am tempted to read that last one. I think this site will be a great way to keep myself entertained during Michigan's long, cold winters.

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Top Jobs

There is no such thing as "economic problems" if you have the right job.

For all of those math and science geeks, you are probably on top of the world. In my two years in the city, I have noticed two things: the people making money are either working in the hospital, on computers or in the finance department.

Unfortunately, the rest of us will have to catch up to you. I majored in journalism and all it has gotten me is a husband and some student loans I have to pay off. I can't do much with it because it requires so much traveling and crazy long hours. Not to mention, that as a woman, some people are VERY intimidated that someone so pretty could be THAT smart. Sorry guys, it had to be said. Women tend to find more than one glass ceiling in this business. That is why I am writing this blog. The most successful journalists I know have all become professors at large universities. That, of course, requires more college and time. But you do make more money...

Anyway, that being said, I have found the top ten jobs for 2008 according to Yahoo.com .

1. Marketing and Promotions Management
2. Medical Assisting
3. Computer Networking Specialist
4. Teacher
5. Software Programmer
6. Educational Administrator
7. Graphic Designer
8. Paralegal
9. Nursing Administrator
10. Accountant / Bookkeeper

If you would like to find out more about these careers, copy and paste this link into your browser:

http://education.yahoo.net/degrees/articles/featured_10_hot_careers_for_2008_and_beyond.html

Sunday, June 1, 2008

Time is Valuable




No matter how long you live, you will never have enough time.

There's always something new that I want to do, something new to experience, something new to taste, to see, to hear, to feel...

My kids ask me, "Mom, can you read me a bedtime story?"

My husband asks me, "Honey, do you want to go have dinner and a movie?"

My family asks me, "So when do I get to see the baby?"

My friends ask me, "Are you going to have any time next week for lunch?"

Sometimes my head just spins with questions and responsibility. Do I have time? Yes, I have time. Let me see. Let me check with my husband. Let me make sure I have a sitter. Let me make sure the kids are going to be in school. Let me see if I have anything else going on.

I am a slave to time now. It is so weird. How does someone who is a stay-at-home mom have no time?

For those of you who manage to work in a few minutes with your significant other, I have made a list of things you can do to kill time. If you have little ones still home, you can take them to all of these places.

1. Go miniature golfing. It's fun, short and you can talk about things.
2. Grab a pizza and head to the park.
3. Find a museum.
4. Book stores are awesome "third places" to socialize, listen to music and relax.
5. Locate an indoor track and go for a run. Or go back to the park.

I have wasted a lot of time not doing the things that I want to do, not saying the things that I need to say and not being the person I want to be. I hope this blog inspires you to try something new and spend time with the special people in your lives before it is too late. Don't let your everyday responsibilities bog down your life. Don't get sucked into movie night and don't assume that you have to go on dates at night, only spend time with your kids during certain times or only visit your family on holidays. Call your mom and for God's sake, kiss your loved one when they walk out the door!!!

~Nika

Friday, May 30, 2008

Not Enough Love

I am posting this poem because love is a very good but tumultuous thing. It comes and goes. It raises you up and then throws you to the pits of hell when it leaves. Even when you give and give and give, you seem to miss something along the way and that something comes back to haunt and torment you. So you forgot to say hello to Miss So and so, now she wants to destroy you. Or you happen to have said hello to someone that Miss So and so does not like and because you are showing love to someone else, she wants to destroy you again. Why cannot a person who is loving just be loved back? Why is love always so complicated?


Bertrand Russell:c

Three passions have governed my life:
The longings for love, the search for knowledge,
And unbearable pity for the suffering of [humankind].

Love brings ecstasy and relieves loneliness.
In the union of love I have seen
In a mystic miniature the prefiguring vision
Of the heavens that saints and poets have imagined.

With equal passion I have sought knowledge.
I have wished to understand the hearts of [people].
I have wished to know why the stars shine.

Love and knowledge led upwards to the heavens,
But always pity brought me back to earth;
Cries of pain reverberated in my heart
Of children in famine, of victims tortured
And of old people left helpless.
I long to alleviate the evil, but I cannot,
And I too suffer.

This has been my life; I found it worth living.

adapted

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Kanamara Matsuri a.k.a. The Penis Festival



As I was looking for new and interesting websites and places to spread the word about my new blog, I came across this article about Kanamara Matsuri or the Penis Festival, as called by foreigners.

Babibubebo.com says, "Every year Kanamara Shrine holds this festival on the 1st Sunday in April in Kawasaki, Kanagawa."

In case you are wondering, it's in Japan.

I have to tell you, this is pretty cool. I honestly did not know that the Japanese had such crazy festivals!!! You have to see the photos from this thing!!!

There is a legit reason why the Japanese in these photos are running around hugging and sucking fake penises and vaginas (in a very polite way mind you.) They are praying for protection against sexually transmitted diseases, married couple's harmony, business prosperity and so on.

A more important factor to take note of is that the people in this festival are celebrating their bodies, not shunning them. They are showing as much respect for their sexual organs as they would their face or their brains and they are not shy about it.

I think many western and middle-eastern countries should take note of this and learn how to love their bodies as much as they love their minds and stop treating sex like it is a disease. Stop treating sex like it is a terrible thing and learn to respect it. The human race and all other types of animals need sex to survive. Why can't we embrace it and learn how to have it in a safe, non-violent way?

If you'd like to read more, here is the link:

http://babibubebo.com/2008/04/07/kanamara-matsuri-festival-of-the-steel-phallus/

I love this festival. And now I'm going to get off my soap-box.

Cheers!!!

~Nika

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Tapping Trees

I know what you are thinking...What in the world is she talking about?

I'm talking about tapping trees for sap to make maple syrup.

It's not usually the kind of thing I write about but it's pretty interesting. I've always wanted to do it and it's pretty easy. Plus, I make a lot of pancakes and I really love fresh maple syrup.

You have to find a maple tree that's at least 31 inches in diameter, drill a hole into the side and collect the sap. Then you have to boil the sap (a pretty decent amount of it) until its sugar content is about 67%. It will take a while. Finally, you have to filter it and can it.

There is a really informative pdf file on a Maine university website I found while I was researching the topic http://www.umext.maine.edu/onlinepubs/PDFpubs/7036.pdf . It gives you detailed instructions on how to make your maple syrup right at home without all of the fancy equipment.

We have a maple tree in our front yard, so I think I might give it a go.

Have a great week!!!

~Nika

Sunday, May 25, 2008

Cherokee Tears



As many of my friends and family know, I am part Cherokee, well, at least that's what my mother says.

I can see it though. I have found over the years that many of my thoughts and ideas are not exactly run of the mill caucasion -ish thoughts and ideas.

Anyway, this blog is not about me, I just wanted to say why I am posting this.

This blog is about remembering those who sacrificed their lives so that others can have what they have today.

On May 28, 1830 the Indian Removal Act was put into place so that any Native Americans living on this side of the Mississippi would move west of the Mississippi, thereby giving up the only homes that generations of Native Americans have ever known.

It is to my dismay that on May 23, 1838 the first "Cherokee Roundup" took place. This day is shared with the same day of the birth of my brother, we will call him Turtle.

Since May is the month that the Trail of Tears was born, I wanted to make a tribute to all of the people who suffered that trail.
May they rest in peace and may their children's children also have peace.

~Nika

Friday, May 23, 2008

Scenes from Space



My love for the stars has once again brought me to a place where only the heavens can take me, www.HubbleSite.org . I love outer-space and this site is the official site of the Hubble spacecraft.

It features a place where you can see what is going on in the heavens the same night you visit the site. You can also download photos to print out of pictures that the Hubble took while it was in space, build a miniature telescope and comet and even watch video of the latest discoveries.

There is also a section for teachers and a list of educational museums you can visit.


Have loads of fun at the HubbleSite!!!

~Nika

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Beautiful Hair From Around the World




I liked these hair styles.

Serving Others

Do you remember when you were little and your parents made you go to church (assuming you are Christian)? They used to tell you how Jesus was a servant and how back in those days when you entered a home the host would wash your feet.

I got to thinking about that sermon for some reason. I remember how innocent I was back then. I knew nothing of sex, drugs, violence or misfortune. I remember how willing I was to help others, how hospitable.

As I look back, I realize that I am still that same person, I still want to be helpful and hospitable towards others but I find that with the problems we face in society today, it makes me weary of who I should be this way toward. I know it is wrong to be judgmental. I know I should show kindness to everyone and give everyone the benefit of the doubt but how do I do that when people tend to be so cruel and take advantage of one another? I have been at the receiving end of that for a very long time.

I have decided that irregardless of how people treat me I am going to be kind no matter what. My grandfather used to say, "You cannot teach a dog to be kind by beating it." I agree. You cannot teach a person to love by hating them.

So despite all of the differences of opinion, of religion, of culture and of upbringing, I am going to treat everyone, even those who look creepy and untrustworthy, the same. I am going to be kind to them. Maybe some day it will save my life.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Voting

The elections are just around the corner and the candidates are neck in neck but I still do not know who I am voting for.
How can I choose between a woman, a black man and a white man with so much experience? I can tell you this, I am going to focus on the issues.
I know that I do not want Roe vs. Wade reversed, so that crosses McCain of from my list. I cannot see us condemning even more people to death than what may all ready be condemned. Even if we ban abortions there is going to be some hack job on the side waiting for the business, let's face it.
I have always been a supporter of Hillary Clinton. I think she is a strong woman. Despite all of the pant-suit jokes and jabs about Bill, she has tried to fix health insurance, she has been for education and she did, after all, help clean up the economic problems from the last Bush. That is a big one. Not to mention, I don't think I'll have to worry about women's rights issues with her. That is another big one.
Now we have Obama. I don't really know what his policies are. Every time I try to find out, there is some interruption, or he and Clinton are fighting. With all of the bickering, it's like I'm at a family reunion. I keep thinking that I will just go to his website and read about it but again, I find distractions. I am going there right this instant.
If you want to find out more about the candidates, follow me to:

www.BarackObama.com www.HillaryClinton.com www.JohnMcCain.com

Thanks again and Happy Voting!!!

~Nika

Sunday, May 18, 2008

Vagina Monologues

Hi, everyone!!! I started reading this book last night called the Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler and it is really a page-turner! Well, the title itself begs you to read it but it truly is an interesting read. I have to admit that I was expecting it to be more shocking than it is.

I know many of you have probably heard of the Vagina Monologues. When I was at CMU, one of my friends acted in one of the many plays that are being held world wide about the book.

At first glance it seems like just another rant about men hating women and women hating men but it's not. It's a collaboration of stories about women and their sexuality, the good and the bad and even the incredibly sexy. It's also about helping women to learn how to be okay with being a woman.

If a man were to read it, I would say that he would get out of it that women love to be loved. That we don't like to be violated and that if you are gentle and kind and understanding, we could be your best friend forever. He would also see that lack of these things in some of our lives has brought a lot of misery to us.

I encourage you to read it. I found my copy at a local library and I'm sure you can find a copy either at your local library, college, university or book store. You can buy a copy at www.Villard.com .

If you have read it, please, let me know what you think about this book.
Have a great week!!!

~Nika

Friday, May 16, 2008

The Housing Market

The housing market has taken an interesting turn as people realize that almost no one in Michigan has the money to buy a house, nor the desire to buy a house, on credit.

I believe it is to our advantage as consumers that the mortgage industry has taken a bit of a fall. Now they cannot charge us unbelievable interest rates because they have no one left to rip off. What I find hard to believe is that lenders would lend to people who are not financially well off, charge them very high prices and then actually expect them to follow through. I find it even more unbelievable that our government would tolerate such bad business in the first place.

These lenders have not only loaned money to people who cannot pay but they are selling the bad debts, getting their dues and then running. It is the people at the end of the line who are being held responsible for their stupidity, dare I say fraud...

We may have a long way to go before we reach bottom but from the bottom, there is only one way...right back up. So, hold on to your seats ladies and gentlemen!!!

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

A Great Website

Today I want to share with you a great website called www.TheNest.com. Basically, it is a website for married people. I love it because I never thought I would be married, nor did I prepare for it and this site has opened many doors for me. I know how it sounds but if you know me then you know why.

It has given me insights to how other married couples think and operate. The people are generally very helpful and there are sections about food, relationships, how to deal with the in-laws, home-decorating and many more. You can even localize.

TheNest.com is a very informative and social place to interact and I hope you will visit the site.

Sunday, May 11, 2008

Happy Mother's Day!!!

Happy Mother's Day to all of you mothers out there!!!

I know how hard it can be sometimes, especially when you have small children or teenagers (both of whom you have to keep a constant eye on.) That is why I have posted some links here for some stress relief, as well as given you my very own tried and true ways of relaxing.

As much as our significant others try to help us relax, sometimes you need a little extra tlc.
Here are my favorite ways of unwinding. Some things work for different days.

1. Go get a massage from a professional in an upscale salon. It may cost between $40
and $80 but the results are priceless. They will treat you like you are a queen
and you will come out feeling like you are floating. However, if you do go to some-
one in their house, or have them come to yours, don't be surprised if you have
interruptions. It is a home, not exactly where I would choose to take a mini-
vacation.

2. You know this one, soak in a bubble bath with some scented candles and relaxing
music. Be sure to turn up the heat so you aren't cold when you get out. Then
slather on some sweet smelling lavender lotion afterwards. Meijer sells some for
a good price, as well as Bath and Body Works ( I love their Lavender Body
Butter.)

3. Pick up a bottle of Blackstone 2005 Napa Valley Merlot or Arbor Mist Blackberry
Merlot and a bar of Hershey's Dark Chocolate. You can't go wrong here. Red wine
chocolate tastes awesome together!!!

4. Tell your significant other that you just want to sit on the couch all day and watch
a movie (Memoirs of a Geisha was what I chose, very good), eat Chinese food, and
play video games. Don't under-estimate this one. I haven't felt so relaxed than
when my husband did this for me. Even my kids jumped on board and
cleaned up while I relaxed.

5. Here are some other ideas I found on the web:
- http://www.sulger.net/soundsculptures/
- http://www.dharma-haven.org/tibetan/healing.htm
- http://sleepdisorders.about.com/cs/othertreatment/a/masstech.htm

Good luck and Happy Mother's Day!!!

~Nika

I won! I won! I won!

I just wanted to share some fun news with you about a contest I won on www.Stylehive.com. My cousin introduced me to this site. It's pretty cool. You can go there and find clothes and accessories and well, all sorts of stuff, but I just happened to win a contest the first week I was a member.
I was supposed to talk about who my favorite rock star is and why. So here is the link to the post and the prizes I won:

http://blog.stylehive.com/index.php/weblog/entry/giveaway-contest-and-the-winner-of-the-april77-gear-is/


This site is pretty fun, so tune in. :)

~Nika

Thursday, May 8, 2008

Sweet People

Hi! My name is Nika and I am really psyched to have you here!

On this blog I want to share with you some fun and fascinating things I have found on the internet and maybe a few funny stories from time to time. I will also introduce you to new-to-me and exciting books, websites, places and ideas.

I hope you never get bored here!!!

Sincerely,
Nika