Trunk or treat events are rapidly replacing door-to-door trick or treating. If you're little gobblins are ready to stir up some fun why not try out a Trunk or Treat?
The Trunk or Treat events are almost like tailgate parties. The idea is for families to give out candy or other small treats from their car trunks or tail gates. These usually take place in church parking lots, shopping centers or (more rarely) in neighborhoods.
If you are considering putting a Trunk or Treat together but need some help getting started check out this article.
Currently, these locations are holding Trunk or Treat events in and around Knoxville. Click on the links for more information. To add your event please email us at youvebeenreviewed@gmail.com or add a comment in the section below.
Trunk or Treat in Knoxville (so far):
http://www.volunteertv.com/sports/headlines/26842469.html
http://seymourherald.com/news/2008/oct/23/smokies-park-to-host-trunk-n-t/
August 31, 2009
August 29, 2009
Our family had the opportunity to go to The Chop House in Fountain City, Tennessee earlier this week. We wanted a quiet place where we could relax after just having made funeral arrangements.
The Chop House name has long been associated with quality service and good food. We were not disappointed. Even though the restaurant was nearly at capacity our server did an excellent job. Dirty plates were promptly removed. Tea glasses were filled accordingly. The meals themselves were top notch.
There was only one thing about The Chop House in Fountain City that bothered me. The health department score was not the best. Given the type of restaurant this aims to be and The Connors Concepts reputation this surprised me. I was expecting the score to be higher than an 84.
Other than that, I would not hesitate to dine at The Chop House in Fountain City, Tennessee again.
Read my full article on Associated Content
For more on The Chop House view these links:
The Chop House
Reviews on Yahoo Local
The Chop House name has long been associated with quality service and good food. We were not disappointed. Even though the restaurant was nearly at capacity our server did an excellent job. Dirty plates were promptly removed. Tea glasses were filled accordingly. The meals themselves were top notch.
There was only one thing about The Chop House in Fountain City that bothered me. The health department score was not the best. Given the type of restaurant this aims to be and The Connors Concepts reputation this surprised me. I was expecting the score to be higher than an 84.
Other than that, I would not hesitate to dine at The Chop House in Fountain City, Tennessee again.
Read my full article on Associated Content
For more on The Chop House view these links:
The Chop House
Reviews on Yahoo Local
Knoxville Area Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes
Fall means cooler weather. When the hot days turn cool there's nothing better to do than visit a pumpkin patch or corn maze. The Knoxville area has several to choose from. You won't have to drive far. Whether you are simply choosing the perfect pumpkin or seeking out an all day corn maze experience there are several to choose from within a 45 minute drive.
There's lots of fun to be had this fall. For more information please see the following links:
If you are looking for a pumpkin, stop by Messiah Lutheran Church on Kingston Pike. Their front parking lot becomes awash in shades of orange in middle October. You are sure to find the right pumpkin to take home. All proceeds go to benefit the church and its various ministries.
For outdoor fun head on over to the Corn Maze in Corryton. This is about a 45 minute drive. There you will find a pumpkin patch and corn maze. It's lots of fun and adventure.
Or head on over to Jefferson City and visit the Echo Valley Corn Maze. It too is about 45 minutes from Knoxville but lots of fun!
There's lots of fun to be had this fall. For more information please see the following links:
August 28, 2009
Fall Color Drives in East Tennessee
Fall is coming. In addition to football games there is something else to look forward to - fall color drives. The beautiful splendor is displayed on the mountains throughout East Tennessee. When it is time for the leaves to change there is no place better to be than glorious East Tennessee.
If you are coming for a football game why not stay for the weekend? Come in on Friday and leave on Sunday. In the meantime, take one of these driving tours to enjoy the fall color drives in East Tenneseee. It's an experience that you will remember for a lifetime.
The top 3 fall color drives in East Tennessee are:
1. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
2. Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
3. Cove Lake in Caryville, Tennessee.
More information on each of these drives can be found in the following article: The Best Foliage and Fall Color Drives in East Tennessee.
More information can be found from these resources:
August 26, 2009
Photos of Liard River Area along Alaska Hwy.
Here are a few more photos. These were taken along the Liard River area on the Alaska Hwy.If you travel the Alaska Hwy. be sure to take some provisions with you. It can be several hours between stops.
August 25, 2009
Photos of the Signpost Forest on the Alaska Hwy.
I'm getting fussed at for not posting more photos of the trip to Alaska. Most of you know that this was the mother-daughter trip of a lifetime for my daughter and myself. Several of you have written and said that they wish they could take such a trip.
Chance are that you can. Your mother-daughter trip of a lifetime doesn't have to be to Alaska. It might be a weekend trip to a cabin by the lake or maybe a visit to the ocean.
What makes a mother-daughter trip of a lifetime is the opportunity to spend time together learning about one another and bonding. That's it. Whether it is a trip to Alaska or a trip to the next town, you can make your next vacation your own mother-daughter trip of a lifetime.
These photos are of the world famous Signpost Forest in Watson Lake, Yukon. It's at mile marker 635 on the Alaska Hwy. The "forest" was started by a homesick soldier and has been added to through the decades.
August 24, 2009
Litton's Restaurant and Bakery in Fountain City
Litton's Restaurant and Bakery in Fountain City is where our family descended en mass on Saturday. There were about 30 of us in all for a leisurely Saturday afternoon luncheon.
On the way in I gave Litton's a quick call. They don't officially take call ahead seating on the weekends but it just seemed right to warn them. The guy on the phone was polite, friendly and efficient. He also said they didn't take call ahead seating but that they would "keep it in mind".
No problem. We got there. Signed the board and in a few minutes were seated. They took our entire party to the large room in the back. It was very nice. The staff did an excellent job. I have to tell you that I was very impressed.
Our hamburgers were perfect. The service was superb and the dessert was even better.
I don't know when our next visit will be but I can tell you two things.
1) We won't have so many people with us.
2) I can't wait to go back to Litton's Restaurant in Fountain City.
View the menu for Litton's Restaurant online here.
Read more about them here.
On the way in I gave Litton's a quick call. They don't officially take call ahead seating on the weekends but it just seemed right to warn them. The guy on the phone was polite, friendly and efficient. He also said they didn't take call ahead seating but that they would "keep it in mind".
No problem. We got there. Signed the board and in a few minutes were seated. They took our entire party to the large room in the back. It was very nice. The staff did an excellent job. I have to tell you that I was very impressed.
Our hamburgers were perfect. The service was superb and the dessert was even better.
I don't know when our next visit will be but I can tell you two things.
1) We won't have so many people with us.
2) I can't wait to go back to Litton's Restaurant in Fountain City.
View the menu for Litton's Restaurant online here.
Read more about them here.
August 23, 2009
About Gayle Crabtree and Youve Been Reviewed
This blog is about restaurant and products reviewed by Gayle Crabtree. She writes the reviews from the standpoint of the average wife, mom and friend. The reviews strive to be accurate representations of the time spent at the restaurant or of the product she has reviewed.
Gayle also maintains The Hope Blog by Hope for Healing.Org at http://www.thehopeblog.org/
Gayle Crabtree is a nonprofit director. She is also the author of Does God Still Love Me and Secondhand Hope. When not busy with these pursuits Gayle enjoys freelance writing and speaking to groups. In June 2009, she and her daughter took the mother-daughter trip of a lifetime. They traveled by car to Willow, Alaska from East Tennessee. Along the way, she wrote reviews and will be updating this blog as accordingly.
Gayle also maintains The Hope Blog by Hope for Healing.Org at http://www.thehopeblog.org/
To learn more about Gayle read this blog or email her at youvebeenreviewed (at) gmail. com.
August 21, 2009
How to Save Money in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
A family member is going to Pigeon Forge this weekend and asked me for money-saving tips. Like most people these days she is looking to have more fun with less money.
The following is an article I wrote for Factoidz. It outlines how to have money and where you can find coupon books. If you are heading to Pigeon Forge this article may help. Check it out on Factoidz here.
Happy traveling!
August 20, 2009
A Loved One's Obituary
I'll be taking a writing break for the next few days. Hubby's grandmother passed away. Dot (Memaw) was a quiet lady who led a quiet life. She was almost 93. John will be taking care of the funeral. Alexandria will probably be providing music. They are working out the details this morning.
There's not going to be much time to write until next week. Many thanks to everyone for their patience.
Her obituary is online here:
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/knoxnews/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=131603938
August 18, 2009
Mariott Hotel in Stamford Calls Victim "Careless"
You have got to be kidding me. A mom is sexually assaulted at gunpoint in front of her 2 children. The little tykes are age 3 and 5. The bad man pleads guilty and receives 20 years.
A few months later the mom seeks retribution from the motel for failure to provide security. Instead of paying up and shutting up (which would have caused the Mariott Hotel in Stamford, Connectict less PR damage) the motel does the unthinkable. The attorneys blame the victim by claiming that she was "careless".
The message from the Mariott Hotel in Stamford, Connect serves as a warning for us all. We should all exercise due digilence. After all, now that we know how the Mariott Hotel in Stamford, Connecticut treats their guests how many of us will be "careless" enough to stay there?
For more information:
For more information:
August 16, 2009
Try Indianapolis for a Close to Knoxville Vacation
Indianapolis, Indiana is a close to Knoxville vacation. If you are looking for a get away that won't break your budget this town might fit the bill.
It took my daughter and I just about 6 hours to get to the heart of the city. This included a gas and lunch stop on the way up. It was an easy drive on the interstate all the way.
We weren't sure what we would find to to in Indianapolis. It turns out that there was plenty. We only had the day because we were on our way to Alaska. Next time, this might be a destination.
One favorite stop by many people is a visit to the Indianapolis Zoo. This is a must-see for animal lovers. Be sure to become a member of the Knoxville Zoo before you go. The memberships will reciprocate.
Children will love the Children's Museum of Indianapolis. There is so much to see and do that the kids may not want to leave.
At the end of the day, you can choose from almost every restaurant that you can imagine. I have a full review of Indianapolis here. You might want to check it out before you go.
It took my daughter and I just about 6 hours to get to the heart of the city. This included a gas and lunch stop on the way up. It was an easy drive on the interstate all the way.
We weren't sure what we would find to to in Indianapolis. It turns out that there was plenty. We only had the day because we were on our way to Alaska. Next time, this might be a destination.
One favorite stop by many people is a visit to the Indianapolis Zoo. This is a must-see for animal lovers. Be sure to become a member of the Knoxville Zoo before you go. The memberships will reciprocate.
Children will love the Children's Museum of Indianapolis. There is so much to see and do that the kids may not want to leave.
At the end of the day, you can choose from almost every restaurant that you can imagine. I have a full review of Indianapolis here. You might want to check it out before you go.
What to do in Terrace, British Columbia
On my recent trip to Alaska we passed through much of the United States and several Canadian provinces. The scenery was beautiful. There were some places that we enjoyed seeing and many more that we plan to explore the next time we are through.
Terrace, British Columbia is one of the those areas that has more to offer than what you see at first glance. It teems with plenty to keep outdoor enthusiasts occupied.
My favorite attraction was the Kleanza Creek Provincial Park. It is just outside of Terrace, British Columbia and is a nature lover's dream. The scenery is breathtaking and the surroundings are serene. It is at the top of my quiet getaway list.
Terrace, British Columbia also has other attractions to offer the tourist. For more on Things to See and Do visit my article on Associated Content.
Hope for Healing.org Blogathon 8/15/2009
I just barely made this post in time...
Hope for Healing.Org is the nonprofit that I work for. We do a lot of tremendous things both online and off. In our local area of Strawberry Plains we give food to those who need it. Because we have a full ministry center we are also able to help with clothing and household items.
Our primary service is to victims of domestic violence. When it comes to victims we will stabilize and work on safety planning, give information and referrals and do whatever we can.
There is so much work that needs to be done surrounding victims of sexual and domestic violence. No one agency or center can do it all. Victims need and deserve support so they can put their lives back.
Many times, people mistakenly think that domestic violence doesn't effect them. That is not true. If we are honest with ourselves we can realize that we know someone who has been a direct victim (or we know an abuser).
When domestic violence touches the life of a friend our life is touched. Whether we choose to act, or not, is an individual decision.
Sometimes, helping is easy. Using isearchigive.org and designating Hope for Healing.org is an easy way to donate .01 per search. It doesn't cost anything. This month, the charity received just a few cents under $30. That's enough to buy an Angel Food box for a victim.
Going to www.hopeforhealing.org and clicking on the Amazon.Com link when ordering is another easy way. If you use that link then Amazon.Com will make a tiny donation for every purchase. The nice thing is that it doesn't cost you any more than it normally would to buy from Amazon.Com.
And when a friend tells you about victimization reassurance is invaluable. A simple hug costs nothing but speaks volumes.
We all think that helping domestic violence victims is hard. Somtimes it is. But sometimes, just as these examples show, helping a domestic violence victim to find healing is easy.
For more information on helping domestic violence victims visit www.thehopeblog.org.
Hope for Healing.Org is the nonprofit that I work for. We do a lot of tremendous things both online and off. In our local area of Strawberry Plains we give food to those who need it. Because we have a full ministry center we are also able to help with clothing and household items.
Our primary service is to victims of domestic violence. When it comes to victims we will stabilize and work on safety planning, give information and referrals and do whatever we can.
There is so much work that needs to be done surrounding victims of sexual and domestic violence. No one agency or center can do it all. Victims need and deserve support so they can put their lives back.
Many times, people mistakenly think that domestic violence doesn't effect them. That is not true. If we are honest with ourselves we can realize that we know someone who has been a direct victim (or we know an abuser).
When domestic violence touches the life of a friend our life is touched. Whether we choose to act, or not, is an individual decision.
Sometimes, helping is easy. Using isearchigive.org and designating Hope for Healing.org is an easy way to donate .01 per search. It doesn't cost anything. This month, the charity received just a few cents under $30. That's enough to buy an Angel Food box for a victim.
Going to www.hopeforhealing.org and clicking on the Amazon.Com link when ordering is another easy way. If you use that link then Amazon.Com will make a tiny donation for every purchase. The nice thing is that it doesn't cost you any more than it normally would to buy from Amazon.Com.
And when a friend tells you about victimization reassurance is invaluable. A simple hug costs nothing but speaks volumes.
We all think that helping domestic violence victims is hard. Somtimes it is. But sometimes, just as these examples show, helping a domestic violence victim to find healing is easy.
For more information on helping domestic violence victims visit www.thehopeblog.org.
August 14, 2009
Try Louisville For a Close-to-Home Vacation
Louisville is not far from Knoxville. I think it took our family only 4 hours to make the trip. We found to be an easy drive. Like many cities you want to try to avoid rush hour.
One of the attractions that I want to see is the Louisville Slugger factory. Baseball isn't my favorite sport but I would like to see how the world-famous bats are made. It just sounds like a fun few hours.
More about the city can be found here:
We went through on our way to Alaska. This wasn't our first trip to Louisville. It definitely won't be the last.
One of the attractions that I want to see is the Louisville Slugger factory. Baseball isn't my favorite sport but I would like to see how the world-famous bats are made. It just sounds like a fun few hours.
The Louisville Zoo is a must see. We always have a great time when we visit. The neat thing is that they reciprocate with the Knoxville Zoo and other zoos around the country. This makes admission easy.
Of course, racetrack fans will want to discover Churchill Downs.
In a nutshell, Louisville, Kentucky provides many opportunities for family fun. It is close enough to Knoxville to make it affordable and relaxing.
More about the city can be found here:
August 13, 2009
How You Can Publish Poetry to Make Extra Money
Everyone is looking to make extra money these days. Writers can enjoy making a few dollars from home without the cost of gasoline or extra expenses. The how is as easy as surfing the internet. Read below to find out more about how to publish poetry and make money.
Blog sites for poetry are becoming more common. If you add yours to the mix and then monetize it you are likely to make a few dollars. How much depends on how you market your poetry and how hard you are willing to work to become noticed.
You won't want to quit your day job. Here is a link that gives an honest and thoughtful approach to how to publish poetry and make money. After you read the article you may decide to give it a try. Lots of writers to. Why be left out?
August 11, 2009
Simple Tips for Budget Travel
My blog readers know about my traveling addiction. I'm getting asked "How do you to it?" almost daily. Frankly, I love it when people ask.
The truth is that budget travel isn't as hard as you might think. With enough advance planning almost any family can take a vacation. A budget vacation can be as simple as pitching a tent on a free spot at the lake or as elaborate as a cross country trip. The main thing about budget travel is to look at what your family enjoys doing and go from there.
You can find some great sites on the internet that will help you save money. An article I wrote for Factoidz outlines my favorite simple tips for budget travel.
When looking for budget travel accommodations state parks are at the top of my list. They are inexpensive and clean. In addition to campgrounds and spots for RVs or campers many state parks have cabins available for rent.
Zoos, parks and aquariums often reciprocate with each other. This means that a membership at one zoo or aquarium may be good at another. We joined our local zoo one year just to save on entrance fees at other zoos. This turned out to be one of the best vacations my family ever had.
AAA memberships can save you money on motels. Did you know that a Sam's Wholesale Club membership can help you save too? So can being a teacher or other state or government employee. Showing your ARRP card can mean the difference between budget travel and high cost.
And dont forget staycations. This is where you stay home and enjoy the local activities that your town offers. A staycation is often the most inexpensive form of budget travel that there is.
The truth is that budget travel isn't as hard as you might think. With enough advance planning almost any family can take a vacation. A budget vacation can be as simple as pitching a tent on a free spot at the lake or as elaborate as a cross country trip. The main thing about budget travel is to look at what your family enjoys doing and go from there.
You can find some great sites on the internet that will help you save money. An article I wrote for Factoidz outlines my favorite simple tips for budget travel.
When looking for budget travel accommodations state parks are at the top of my list. They are inexpensive and clean. In addition to campgrounds and spots for RVs or campers many state parks have cabins available for rent.
Zoos, parks and aquariums often reciprocate with each other. This means that a membership at one zoo or aquarium may be good at another. We joined our local zoo one year just to save on entrance fees at other zoos. This turned out to be one of the best vacations my family ever had.
AAA memberships can save you money on motels. Did you know that a Sam's Wholesale Club membership can help you save too? So can being a teacher or other state or government employee. Showing your ARRP card can mean the difference between budget travel and high cost.
And dont forget staycations. This is where you stay home and enjoy the local activities that your town offers. A staycation is often the most inexpensive form of budget travel that there is.
August 10, 2009
Wolseley, Saskatchewan Swinging Bridge A Step Back in Time
The sign for the Wolseley Saskatchewan Swinging Bridge caught our attention. Neither I nor my daughter had been on a swinging bridge since a tense field trip her kindergarten year. The spirit of adventure that marked this trip encouraged us to make the stop.
The bridge itself was a thing to behold. It was an engineering wonder that spread over a small lake. It was a beautiful summer day. The sky was a perfect shade of blue. Birds called to one another overhead.
Standing before the Wolseley Swinging Bridge was like stepping back in time to become part of a Norman Rockwell painting. Children played nearby with a sense of innocence that is rare these days. A group of preteen adolescent boys raced on thier bicycles to reach their destination. Fishing poles swung in the breeze as the boys pedaled as hard as they could in hopes of outdoing each other.
Wolseley, Saskatchewan is a picture of a simpler place. The swinging bridge was a reminder of a kinder gentler era. My daughter grasped hold of the railing and climbed on. She enjoyed looking out at the lake and neither of us seemed to want the moment to pass.
All too soon it was time to say goodbye. Our stop at the Wolseley Swinging Bridge is now just a fond memory of a beautiful place in a beautiful moment.
More information:
The Swinging Bridge in 360 Degrees
Wolseley, Saskatchewan Swinging Bridge
Photos can be found online here.
The bridge itself was a thing to behold. It was an engineering wonder that spread over a small lake. It was a beautiful summer day. The sky was a perfect shade of blue. Birds called to one another overhead.
Standing before the Wolseley Swinging Bridge was like stepping back in time to become part of a Norman Rockwell painting. Children played nearby with a sense of innocence that is rare these days. A group of preteen adolescent boys raced on thier bicycles to reach their destination. Fishing poles swung in the breeze as the boys pedaled as hard as they could in hopes of outdoing each other.
Wolseley, Saskatchewan is a picture of a simpler place. The swinging bridge was a reminder of a kinder gentler era. My daughter grasped hold of the railing and climbed on. She enjoyed looking out at the lake and neither of us seemed to want the moment to pass.
All too soon it was time to say goodbye. Our stop at the Wolseley Swinging Bridge is now just a fond memory of a beautiful place in a beautiful moment.
More information:
The Swinging Bridge in 360 Degrees
Wolseley, Saskatchewan Swinging Bridge
Photos can be found online here.
August 09, 2009
Glacier View RV Park in Smithers, BC Review
The Glacier View in Smithers, BC has to be the neatest campground that we've ever visited. Helping to make this a truly terrific experience was the staff and all the extra touches. Soft music plays in the showers. There is a kitchen sink and microwave for guests to use and the entire campground is spotless.
In the morning we awoke to the sound of birds and to the view of the Hudson Bay Glacier. Next time we go to Alaska we are staying at the Glacier View RV Park & Campground in Smithers, BC.
For more information visit:
Glacier View RV Park and Campground Website
Glacier View RV Park on Facebook
Glacier View RV Park and Campground Review
In the morning we awoke to the sound of birds and to the view of the Hudson Bay Glacier. Next time we go to Alaska we are staying at the Glacier View RV Park & Campground in Smithers, BC.
For more information visit:
Glacier View RV Park and Campground Website
Glacier View RV Park on Facebook
Glacier View RV Park and Campground Review
August 08, 2009
Alaskan Host B & B in Willow, Alaska You've Been Reviewed
I'm still catching up on my trip to Alaska. There are piles of notes for articles that are still to be written. This latest on the Alaskan Host Bed and Breakfast in Willow, Alaska was fun to write. The owners are Jim and Kathy Huston. It would be hard to find a more gracious couple. They work hard to put you at ease and help you relax.
The Alaskan Host Bed and Breakfast is one of the more unique places that I've visited. The bottom floor of the home is a museum that is filled with game mounts. Most, if not all, of the interesting creatures were found on the property.
There are 200 acres for you to explore at the Alaskan Host Bed and Breakfast in Willow, Alaska. The property has a small lake and a walking trail. I'm not sure that there is a prettier place to stay in Willow.
Click here to read the full review on Associated Content.
Photos of the Alaskan Host Bed and Breakfast can be found online here.
The Alaskan Host Bed and Breakfast is one of the more unique places that I've visited. The bottom floor of the home is a museum that is filled with game mounts. Most, if not all, of the interesting creatures were found on the property.
There are 200 acres for you to explore at the Alaskan Host Bed and Breakfast in Willow, Alaska. The property has a small lake and a walking trail. I'm not sure that there is a prettier place to stay in Willow.
Click here to read the full review on Associated Content.
Photos of the Alaskan Host Bed and Breakfast can be found online here.
August 07, 2009
Stir Fry Cafe Knoxville Restaurant You've Been Reviewed
There's been so much buzz lately about the Stir Fry Cafe in Knoxville that we felt we had to try it. Recently, my daughter and I visited the Kingston Pike location. This is in the Gallery Shopping Center with Kinko's/Fed Ex, Chili's and the Silver Spoon Cafe.
Since it was voted "The Best Asian Dining" by Metro Pulse readers we expected to have a good time. While the sushi was excellent the Stir Fry Cafe in Knoxville fell a little short of the mark.
Read the full review here.
Since it was voted "The Best Asian Dining" by Metro Pulse readers we expected to have a good time. While the sushi was excellent the Stir Fry Cafe in Knoxville fell a little short of the mark.
Read the full review here.
August 06, 2009
Sign the Petition to Save Three Rivers Cornmeal
As you know from a previous blog entry, Three Rivers Cornmeal has gone the way of the dinosaur. The company was purchased by JM Smuckers and subsequently shut down. Along with the closure went 75 years of southern tradition.
The company said that Three Rivers Cornmeal was no longer profitable. They quietly pulled the company off of life support in spring of 2009.
The problem with this is that Three Rivers Cornmeal has a small but loyal following. Now, customers are taking matters into their own hands (or trying to) by asking others to sign a petition. It may not resurrect the best corn meal that there was but enough signatures will at least send a message to JM Smuckers that their customers will not quietly accept a substitution.
An old adage dictates that "the customer is always right". Let's put that saying to the test. Sign the Three Rivers Cornmeal Petition and let's see if the company is listening.
You'll find the petition online here and at the sidebar of this blog.
The company said that Three Rivers Cornmeal was no longer profitable. They quietly pulled the company off of life support in spring of 2009.
The problem with this is that Three Rivers Cornmeal has a small but loyal following. Now, customers are taking matters into their own hands (or trying to) by asking others to sign a petition. It may not resurrect the best corn meal that there was but enough signatures will at least send a message to JM Smuckers that their customers will not quietly accept a substitution.
An old adage dictates that "the customer is always right". Let's put that saying to the test. Sign the Three Rivers Cornmeal Petition and let's see if the company is listening.
You'll find the petition online here and at the sidebar of this blog.
August 05, 2009
Are you going to Calling All Men Aug. 7 & 8, 2009?
Are you going to Calling All Men on Aug. 7 & 8? It's at the Sevierville Events Center this weekend. It's an amazing spirit filled men's event that will leave you shouting for joy.
The speakers are guaranteed to put a fire in your spirit. Few men can preach like Bishop Swanson. Dr. Eddie Fox will be speaking. He is the World Director of Evangelism for the United Methodist Church. Rev. Stephen Handy, Sr. of Lebanon, Tennessee will be bringing a message too.
The nonprofit I work with will have a booth there with other organizations. Calling All Men is an event that no one should miss.
Men, you will be empowered to be who God intends for you to be. If you didn't register yet it's ok. Show up at the Sevierville Events Center on Friday pay your $50 admission fee. Join Calling All Men. It will be a Friday night and Saturday experience that will change your life.
Don't believe me? Come and see for yourself.
More information on the event can be found online:
Calling All Men
Sevierville Events Center
The Call 2 from 2008
The speakers are guaranteed to put a fire in your spirit. Few men can preach like Bishop Swanson. Dr. Eddie Fox will be speaking. He is the World Director of Evangelism for the United Methodist Church. Rev. Stephen Handy, Sr. of Lebanon, Tennessee will be bringing a message too.
The nonprofit I work with will have a booth there with other organizations. Calling All Men is an event that no one should miss.
Men, you will be empowered to be who God intends for you to be. If you didn't register yet it's ok. Show up at the Sevierville Events Center on Friday pay your $50 admission fee. Join Calling All Men. It will be a Friday night and Saturday experience that will change your life.
Don't believe me? Come and see for yourself.
More information on the event can be found online:
Calling All Men
Sevierville Events Center
The Call 2 from 2008
Photo of Hail in Powell, TN 8/4/2009
My daughter snapped this photo this afternoon. We were in Powell, TN when a sudden hailstorm popped out of nowhere. By the time the storm moved on the electricity was out from the hospital to past Shoney's. It knocked out traffic lights and generally caused inconveniences in Powell. Fortunately, there was no major damage that we saw. Drivers were courteous and there were no traffic incidents while we were there.
Earlier this week Safelite Auto Glass came to fix my windshield. Our little trip to Alaska had left us with chips. While it was hailing all I could think about was the recent repair. Fortunately, the storm didn't last long before moving out of Powell, TN.
The hail ranges from pea sized to up to a dime. Not something you want falling on any windshield (much less one that's newly repaired!) We're glad it held! :0)
August 04, 2009
Being Frugal on Trips and at Home
Being frugal doesn't mean having no fun. It means saving money where you can so that you can have fun without worry. Since coming back from Alaska several people have asked how we afforded the trip. We did it through a combination of fundraising and being frugal with what we have.
To save money we camped. True, there was the initial expense of $48.00 plus tax for a tent, $30 for air mattresses and $15 for a shower bag. We already had sleeping bags and most everything else. Since we didn't need services two campgrounds allowed us to stay for free. Our gear paid for itself the first night and continued to save us money during the trip.
Small things add up. Instead of buying bottled water on the way we bought a case of 30 for $4.00. To keep them cold we froze some bottles. The cooled the other bottles as they thawed.
Eating out of cooler helped. This works at home too. It's cheaper and healthier than eating lunches out.
There are lots of ways to be frugal on trips and at home. For more ideas check out these websites.
More information:
Quotes on Being Frugal at eHow
How to be Frugal Without Being Cheap
To save money we camped. True, there was the initial expense of $48.00 plus tax for a tent, $30 for air mattresses and $15 for a shower bag. We already had sleeping bags and most everything else. Since we didn't need services two campgrounds allowed us to stay for free. Our gear paid for itself the first night and continued to save us money during the trip.
Small things add up. Instead of buying bottled water on the way we bought a case of 30 for $4.00. To keep them cold we froze some bottles. The cooled the other bottles as they thawed.
Eating out of cooler helped. This works at home too. It's cheaper and healthier than eating lunches out.
There are lots of ways to be frugal on trips and at home. For more ideas check out these websites.
More information:
Quotes on Being Frugal at eHow
How to be Frugal Without Being Cheap
August 03, 2009
Photos of Alaskan Host Bed and Breakfast
Here are a few photos from the Alaskan Host Bed and Breakfast in Willow, Alaska. This was one of the most memorable experiences on our trip. The owners, Jim and Kathy Huston are gracious people. The Bed and Breakfast sits on 200 acres of Alaska beauty.
We thoroughly enjoyed our visit. Thank you Jim and Kathy Huston!
More information:
For more photos visit this link.
Visit the Alaskan Host Bed and Breakfast at this link.
August 02, 2009
Associated Content Interview About Gayle Crabtree
I was interviewed by Han Van Meegerin on Associated Content. It was an interesting experience to say the least! Click this link to read the interview. Comments on the link are welcome. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to have your say!
August 01, 2009
Review of The Salmon Bake Restaurant Denali, Alaska
The Salmon Bake restaurant in Denali, Alaska was different from any other dining experience. If you are looking for a fun place to dine after hitting the park all day this may hit the spot.
The restaurant has two family dining areas downstairs and a bar upstairs. As you would imagine, most of the food on the menu at The Salmon Bake is fish related. Still, there are burgers and chicken tenders to tempt your taste buds.
My family and I ordered the halibut, a burger and nachos. We had dessert and a chicken tender appetizer. Food quality and service were both good. There was nothing to complain about.
At the Salmon Bake, the cost of the meal is in line with most Alaska restaurants. The $66 we paid was worth it for a relaxing sit down meal.
Click the widget on the right to read the full review on Associated Content. More reviews and information from the Alaska trip will be posted soon. Check back here often.
The restaurant has two family dining areas downstairs and a bar upstairs. As you would imagine, most of the food on the menu at The Salmon Bake is fish related. Still, there are burgers and chicken tenders to tempt your taste buds.
My family and I ordered the halibut, a burger and nachos. We had dessert and a chicken tender appetizer. Food quality and service were both good. There was nothing to complain about.
At the Salmon Bake, the cost of the meal is in line with most Alaska restaurants. The $66 we paid was worth it for a relaxing sit down meal.
Click the widget on the right to read the full review on Associated Content. More reviews and information from the Alaska trip will be posted soon. Check back here often.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)