Reviews by VictoriousMary

VictoriousMary says "Elmer's Glue for Adult All Purpose Sticky Jobs" about Elmer's Glue All Multipurpose White Glue

VictoriousMary — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 02:41:47 GMT

Elmer's Glue is an old time favorite around our house. It is used to help everything from two pieces of paper to knick knacks to crafts stick together.

Elmer's has been around long before the invention of the glue gun. It can be invisible or not depending on the expertise of the user. We have used it with great success on homework the dog thought he could really eat. We have also been able to patch back together again favorite homemade Christmas gifts that have managed to fly off the table and land in a many pieces.

My only suggestion is that this glue is for adult rather than children's hands. It tends to run all over the place and needs some amount of control. For this glue, less really is better.

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VictoriousMary says "Friendly Nieghborhood Store" about Kmart - Rio Rancho, NM

VictoriousMary — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 02:59:53 GMT

Our K Mart in Rio Rancho may not be the most crowded store in town but it is always clean and friendly. Every time I go there, I find someone I know from Church or school. If I am having trouble finding something, there are people in the store to help me. I do not have to play any games to find them. They are readily available, easy to find and willing to help.

There are no long lines at check out time. Prices are as I expected. If it says it is on sale, the register agrees. No one has to go back and double check prices. It is a pleasure to shop without a hassle.

Another benefit of this K Mart is that it is well stocked. If an item is advertised in the paper, the store has it. I have not had to take a rain check. I appreciate that as well.

I like that I am thanked sincerely. Someone looks me the eye. I feel respected. I think this K Mart hires our local people who need jobs. The prices are in the range of this socio economic area. This is also very helpful. ...

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VictoriousMary says "Little Gold Book of Yes Attitude is For all Employees to Read" about Jeffrey Gitomer's Little Gold Book of YES! Attitude

VictoriousMary — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 02:55:15 GMT

Everybody loves working with people with positive, Yes Attitudes. But. Most of us do not know what that means or how to develop it first in ourselves and then in those we work with.

I found this book in an airport of all places. It made me think of my own practices at work. It then gave me some ideas of how to improve the public relation skills of my secretaries and others around me. They are wonderful people but do not always know they way they come across. The yes is often hidden.

They book gives ideas on bringing it out in positive ways.

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VictoriousMary says "A Child Called It - A True Story" about A Child Called "It"

VictoriousMary — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 16:46:00 GMT

A Child Called It was recommended to me by one of the Deacons at our church. He is the chaplian for the police department. I read it in one sitting. The book would be a horror novel if it were not true. It makes you cry because it is true. I felt so helpless.

As an educator, I looked over the children I interacted with for several weeks to be sure I saw no signs of malnutrition, poor sleep, neglect, or abuse of any kind. My heart did not want to believe that there are more children in our schools like the one in the book that went to school every day and was not noticed by teachers and administrators.

It is a must read as an awareness book for all those who interact with children. We cannot be blind to the real needs and what happens to some of our children when they leave us. The book is written from the child's point of view, in his own words.

For the love and salvation of our children, right here in the United States, possibly in your own backyard, please read this book. ...

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VictoriousMary says "New Hospital on the West Side is rated number one by users" about West Side Hospital -

VictoriousMary — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 22:51:31 GMT

A recent visit to the West Side Hospital calmed all my fears about the quality of medical care here in Rio Rancho. The staff was quick to assess my needs, quick to deliver quality care and attention. Never for a moment did I feel neglected or that I was getting less than top notch treatment.

I have been going to Albuquerque for all of my medical needs because we simply did not have a quality facility here. That meant a minimum of a 45 minute drive on a good, traffic-wise day. Most of the hospitals there are getting older. They are also very, very busy. I or a member of my family were in for long emergency room waits.

But that was not the case when I had my last emergency. You have to know, I like most of you, wait until the last possible second to have to visit any hospital. Such was the case with me. I just did not think I needed a hospital. Of course I could take care of myself as I grew weaker all day long until I could not move without assistance. Even then, I...

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VictoriousMary says "Johnson Ziploc Freezer bags work for Meats and Freezables" about SC Johnson Ziploc 1 Gallon Freezer bags

VictoriousMary — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 22:35:48 GMT

We are always on the go so Ziplock bags are a must in our house. We buy in bulk, come home divide and conquer by freezing in portion sizes our meats and other freezable items in Johnson's handy Ziplock bags. They come in a variety of helpful sizes.

We have found that they are helpful for ice cream. Once ice cream containers are opened, our freezer does a job with freezer burn. Once sealed in a zip lock - wow! It stays creamy and soft and most of all scoop-able!

We have also found that zip-lock bags are easily found in most grocery and discount stores. They are not a specialty item and they beat trying to wrap in other types of materials that do not self seal or depend on you to try to seal all of the edges yourself.

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VictoriousMary says "Pantene Shampoo leaves you clean and looking great!" about Nexxus Therappe Luxury Moisturizing Shampoo

VictoriousMary — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 22:19:19 GMT

I can use most any shampoo on my hair but Pantene is my choice when I take the time to make one.

Living in a dry climate, I need something that can help sun beat up hair. I like my hair to shine and to look natural. With Pantene, I get both. It also works to give me a clean and bouncy young look even though I am culturally over the hill.

Pantene smells good but but lets me add whatever scent I want to the rest of me without overpowering me with its own shampoo smell. It feels clean in my hand and on my hair. It rinses out easily and it actually gives me that squeak that lets me know it is clean.

It moisturizes without the greasy look that to me is out of style and tends to look dirty.

So Pantene is my choice for hair beauty, health, and all around pleasure. Try it! You'll be pleased you did. It comes in a variety of hair types to make it even more appealing.

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VictoriousMary says "Neutrogena Sunscreen Doctor recommended" about Neutrogena Sunscreen

VictoriousMary — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 21:57:50 GMT

I have fair skin and forever subject to burning. My doctor is always warning me about skin cancer. He is always telling me to raccoon my face with some kind of skin protection.

I also am allergic to soaps and detergents so I am afraid to put any creams on my face or any other part of my body because I do not want to break out in a rash and start scratching.

Getting tired of this constant advice and sick of the brims on hats I flat out asked him what he suggested and bingo - Neutrogena was his suggestion.

I am still not a fan of creams but it is a lot cooler than hiding under a hat all the time.

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VictoriousMary says "Seton Worldwide Sets You On A Path to Success" about Seton Hall University - Education - MED

VictoriousMary — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 21:45:01 GMT

Seton Hall University offers many online degree programs in Seton Worldwide. I was working full time as a teacher but being pressured to get my masters and move on to administration.

I just could not find the time to sit in the classroom and actually go home and study. But Seton Worldwide showed me how I could meet with motivated and talented professionals that needed the same knowledge and skills that I did. I only needed to go to class on campus a few weekends. All of my materials were mailed to me and all of my studying was done at home, on my time. I met wonderful people on line. I had excellent professors on line. I obtained my masters and not only got a job in administration but became the superintendent of schools in my district. I owe it all to the guidance of Seton Worldwide.

The course applications were geared to me. It was not textbook learning. Theory was applied to real administrative tasks. I appreciated these courses far more than my undergraduate...

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VictoriousMary says "Ionic Pro Air Purifier Helps You Breathe Easier" about Ionic Pro Air Purifier - Full Size

VictoriousMary — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 20:43:05 GMT

This was recommended by a doctor friend of mine because the air at night seems so different from the air during the day. I just couldn't sleep with the difference in day and night air quality.

Once we added the Ionic Air Purifier to the room, it made all the difference in the world.

Before going through a host of medical specialists and then allergy tests, and spending all kinds of money on doctor bills, give this system a try. It costs initially but it will save your lungs in the long run.

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VictoriousMary says "Paper Mate Pens Rule the World of Writing" about Paper Mate Profile

VictoriousMary — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 20:09:28 GMT

As much as I love the computer, I write the old fashioned way very often. The only type of pen I ever purchase for myself since my first job a is a Paper Mate. The others just do not have the same feel in my hand and they do not meet the paper with the same grace, ease, and style the way this brand of pen does.

I use them for all my writing needs:

Card and contract signatures
Journal and story writing
Note-taking in class and at meetings
Organizing plans and people's ideas
Phone messages and to do lists

I do not have the neatest handwriting on the face of the earth. So I need all the help I can get. My secretaries all know that they can order whatever they want for themselves but to keep me happy, keep me in my favorite pen. I have often been slipped other brands and can tell the difference immediately. Do yourself a favor and keep it Paper Mate.

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VictoriousMary says "Willow Tree Angels - A Gift With Meaning and Spirit" about Willow Tree Angels

VictoriousMary — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:47:53 GMT

I had seen the Willow Angels in stores several times before I received the first one as a gift. I try not to be a collector of gifts but rather a giver of them, but this one was just so personal and meaningful that I kept it.

No long after that I received one from a student who who gave me the Angel of Knowledge from the same collection along with a card that made me know this too was a keeper.

I know have four such Willow Angel keepers. They are unique as far as angels go.

If you need a gift that says more than itself, check out the collection. If you receive you, don't be too hasty in shelving it. Someone is more than complementing you. They love you and value you via this lovely carved angel. Enjoy

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VictoriousMary says "The Tide Pen - Quick Appreciation Gift Maybe" about The Tide Pen

VictoriousMary — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:33:56 GMT

Busy trying to please my staff and give them a morale pick me up after one of those crazy seasons, I picked up The Tide Pen for each of them. At first it was wonderful. It satisfied the diet crazed and was good for the gadget happy.

Then came our first lunch mishaps and out came those handy dandy pens. Half the tips broke. I know my staff is great with public relations on the phone and wonderful with clients. They are not gentle in terms of anything else. Sooo, the perfect little "you are appreciated" gift was the perfect frustration.

Besides reinforcing my cheap nature, I now need to consider hiring a dry cleaning agency on the side. Any ideas for inexpensive, spur of the moment office appreciation gifts?

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VictoriousMary says "Who Moved My Cheese - Powerful Story for Living and Sharing" about Who Moved My Cheese?: An A-Mazing Way to Deal With Change in Your Work and in Your Life

VictoriousMary — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 04:04:23 GMT

I have read, reread, and used Who Moved My Cheese several times over the passed few years. It was given to me as a going a way gift when my job relocated me across the country. I did not know whether to be insulted or whether I was missing the point of the gift.

Since then I find myself return to that maze to hunt for cheese time and time again. I realize that this modern day proverb is packed with meaning, not just for me, but for all of us.

I have shared it with friends who are at various places in life. I have used it during presentations. I have found that even children can understand the story and have amazing insights that can help them resolve some of the problems they face in school and at home.

In today's fast paced world, some one is always moving the cheese. However you define your cheese, this book is sure to help you look at it, smell it, and enjoy finding it in a new light. Look for your copy today.

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VictoriousMary says "The Shack a Mystery as Shocking as it is Inspiring!" about The Shack

VictoriousMary — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 03:33:07 GMT

The Shack was a wonderful book! I purchased it on a whim and berated myself all the way home from the store for wasting money.

I wasn't going to read it because it just had one of those covers that did not attract me. But I packed quickly for a flight and it was the only thing out and ready to act as a light weight carry on item. With my first layover being extended for the usual reasons, I began to read.

The Shack was impossible to put down. I found myself reading just one more page, one more chapter, one more ... until the book was finished before the day was out.

It had everything that tickles my reading fancy. It had mystery, drama, a bit of a thriller, some faith elements, clear humor, and a wonderful heart warming ending.

Ignore the cover. The jacket description does not do it justice either. Just read it. You will be glad that you did.

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VictoriousMary says "Poisonwood Bible Okay for a Bit of Poisoning of Adults Only" about Poisonwood Bible

VictoriousMary — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 03:17:58 GMT

I first read Poisonwood Bible because a friend of mine from my high school days suggested it and wanted my opinion. It was nothing to write home about.

At first I liked the missionary aspect and the dad's struggle and the family aspect and adventure. But the life destruction or spirit destruction of each person in the story was just too much. It was not something I would have chosen to read on my own. I did not see the book as valuable.

The second time I read it for the English department at the high school. I could not in the end recommend the book for adolescent reading. This to me was clearly adult reading. I do not want our children thinking that this is normal life, that the decisions made were good ones, or that it was okay to turn out like these characters. I would prefer they read in class and discuss more morally upright and inspiring books. I could not justify this as a choice for these students. Regardless of what students may read on their own, we educators...

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VictoriousMary says "Brother Odd is An Odd Thomas Must Read Favorite!" about Brother Odd

VictoriousMary — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 03:00:40 GMT

Brother Odd is one of my favorites in the Odd Thomas Series. It has the classic elements of both a mystery and a thriller. Odd Thomas is still rather young and the setting combined with his youth creates an innocence that makes the sinister evil that Odd faces all the more striking.

The placement of the story with religious Brothers on one side and Sisters on the other working together to protect disabled children adds a unique flavor to this book which helps give the book its title.

In reading the book I knew the Odd Series was really going to take off in an infinite possibility of directions.

This is too good to miss.

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VictoriousMary says "Love You Forever - A Must Read for Moms and Would Be Moms" about Love You Forever

VictoriousMary — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 02:38:06 GMT

Love You Forever is a book I read to school parents of all ages and suggest to mothers to be. It always brings tears to the eyes of the listener.

I do not want to give the story away, but it is absolutely charming. If you need a gift for a new mother or father this is perfect. If you are going off to college, consider purchasing this for your parents with a thank you note. As you read it, see yourself and remember how your parents loved you through all those "adventures."

Children love it because they recognize themselves as they grow and mature. They also see that they are loved and appreciated regardless of their unique ways of growing.

Parents love the book because they see that their patience and love are appreciated. It is just so how a parent really wants it to be.

It is a soon to be classic family treasure. Have your tissues ready and enjoy.

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VictoriousMary says "Catholic education at an affordable price" about St. Thomas Aquinas School - Rio Rancho,NM

VictoriousMary — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 23:47:04 GMT

I love walking into St. Thomas Aquinas School. You can feel the calm and the learning going on. The office staff is actually working, not talking about some parent or complaining about our children.

I see student work in the hall that reflects real learning. I can tell the difference between what happens in sixth grade math and fourth grade math. I can see progress between thought that is developed in seventh grade writing and third graders by the paragraphs displayed.

Students actually stop and greet me in the hallway. They are courteous regardless of whether the teacher is watching them or not. They are learning that people are important. All people, regardless of age and place in this world.

I know that all schools these days boast of test scores and values, but St. Thomas students actually live those day to day. I see it. I am proud to be a part of the school and hope others are too!

Yes, children and staff have bad days. But that is part of the education as well. ...

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VictoriousMary says "American is my link to home! It has never failed me." about American Airlines

VictoriousMary — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 23:06:02 GMT

I take at least a dozen trips a year and prefer American to all other airlines for the simple reason that they have always gotten me home, one way or another. I like that.

They make sure that I get to my destination. If they are having problems, they get me on another plane. I appreciate this tremendously.

I have always been treated with kindness and respect. I have used American for the past 8 years. When I have been booked on other airlines I notice the difference.

I also like seeing the pilot. He actually greets me on my arrival and then personnally thanks me for flying with him. I can see that he is experienced, rested, sober, etc. This makes me feel safe.

This is just another reason for me to give American a double A+.

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