What Mom Wants for Mother’s Day

Screen Shot 2015-05-08 at 2.11.38 PMYou’re right about a nice dinner and time with family. Here’s what else will make Mom happy this weekend

We asked more than 750 moms about what would please them for Mother’s Day this year. A special meal and time with you took the top spots, but hold that dinner reservation for a moment — nearly half of the moms said their ideal Mother’s Day activity would take place at home. Twenty-seven percent of Houzz moms would like something for their home or garden; 24 percent would like a personal gift, such as jewelry or clothing; and 22 percent say they’d prefer no gifts at all. Here’s what we asked them, and the top responses:

Valentine’s Day Thought: Words Matter

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If you don’t mind, let me be a little self-reflective.

Twelve years ago today, I was diagnosed with cancer. Valentine’s Day, what a great day to get that news. I’m proud to say, I didn’t just survive the disease. I vanquished it. With help from my surgeon, my oncologist, the amazing nurses, radiation techs, family, and friends, I more than survived.

The word cancer is awful, and the disease is brutal. Most of us know someone who has been affected by it, or is in the midst of a battle with it. I can attest to the fact that my mindset and the power of the words spoken by people around me, made all the difference.

In some way this reminds me of a time when I was young. I defended a mentally-challenged student when I was in kindergarten and first grade. That led to taunting and bullying from other students. The words they used hurt me deeply. When I would argue my case, I was told “stick and stones may break your bones, but words will never hurt me.” That expression is complete malarkey!

Speak hope, life, and love to those around you. YOU can change the trajectory of someone’s thoughts today. Words matter! Use them to make a difference.

I love my life! Thank you for being in it.

Sitcom Cribs: Could Your Favorite TV Characters Actually Afford Their Home?

Homer Simpson seems to be one of the more well-off characters that we’ve listed below. With affordable living being at 30% of one’s monthly income – Homer dominates with only spending about 15% of income on living. Other TV stars aren’t so lucky. Full house is devastated when taken into account San Francisco’s housing boom. With modern day prices even Don Draper of Mad Men would be spending too much on living, although I’d say it’s worth it to live in his homes.

Our TV stars seem to have good jobs and no one is living on the minimum wage. Well, there’s always It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia. Who knows how that crew pays rent. [via]

SitcomCribs

The World’s Loudest Noises

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Loud noises can be unpleasant. But how loud is too loud? The World’s Loudest Noises is an interactive infographic from Air Conditioning Company that explains the loudest noises in the world and how much damage they could do to your ears. So next time your air conditioning kicks on and you feel like complaining… Just remember, there is always something louder.

Turn your volume down before you start clicking!

35 Interesting Facts About Coffee [infographic]

Drinking coffee in the morning is an ongoing ritual in my home. A hot cup of coffee with a pastry is one of my favorite ways to start a day. I love the smell, the taste, and the warmth that a cup of coffee gives each morning. I am not alone in my ritual, a lot of people do the same thing each morning, afternoon, and evening. Coffee is a huge industry that people around the world contribute to. This infographic contains some interesting facts about the history and consumption of coffee.

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Top Ten Christmas Life Hacks

Christmas Hacks

The 12 Days of Safety

Holiday Decorating Safety

Christmas Tree Facts [infographic]

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12 Days of Ugly Christmas Sweaters [infographic]

I have been listening to Christmas music for months and shopping for Christmas gifts and planning winter outfits. If you’re into the holidays at all, you must know that an ugly christmas sweater is a must-have.

Occasionally referred to as ‘tacky’ Christmas sweaters, they are a staple item for themed holiday parties. The best part about them is that it doesn’t matter if you buy a cheap one from the store, or get your crafty on to make a cotton ball snowman on an old sweater. Whether I’m invited to any sweater parties this year or not, I will definitely be sporting the green sweatshirt I just got. The front reads, “Merry Christmas Ya Filthy Animal,” and I am dying to show it off.

If you’re in the market for ugly Christmas sweater ideas, check out the infographic below. After you’ve chosen or made your sweater, remember to wear them loud and proud! Celebrate Christmas in style (or not in style if that’s what you’re going for).

[12 Days of Christmas Sweaters from My Ugly Christmas Sweater]

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