The Blog of Jake and Renee!

I must admit that growing up I was not a big fan of any kind of seafood. However, thanks to the variety of foods that my girlfriend and her family eat...I have opened up to different seafood recipes and really enjoy it a lot!! In fact, one of my favorite seafood dishes is very simple...I am not even sure what to call it, but it includes shrimp and rice. Here's an idea of what the recipe looks like:

2 Tbsp. olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
broccoli and red peppers
1/4 cup water
1 lb. frozen raw shrimp, thawed
1 Tbsp. cornstarch
2 Tbsp. soy sauce

*In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and vegetables and stir fry for 2-3 minutes. Add water along with thawed shrimp. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are hot and shrimp is pink.
You can then combine cornstarch and the soy sauce in small bowl and stir into skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce is thickened. Finally, you can serve over rice to make a really yummy supper.

I really like this recipe, because it's super simple to make and the ingredients are ones that most people always have on hand. I think the biggest change I would like to make to this the next time I make it is to exchange the shrimp for crab. I think that would be really good! What about you? Do you have a favorite seafood recipe? If so, I'd love for you to share them with me. I enjoy trying new seafood recipes so much now that I've come to like all kinds.

If you like seafood as much as I do, you may even want to look into the Great American Seafood Cook off. I was pretty excited to learn about it. I personally think that my simple recipe of shrimp or crab and rice would be a great inclusion into this cook off. It's easy and something most people would really enjoy I think. I really think you should check out their site. You'll find the positiveness of domestic seafood sustainability like the fact that it's local, fresh and you know the source. Learn more by heading over to their site today!

I am really happy to say that I finally bought my little kitten. It was kind of a last minute decision...but she is so cute!! I think she'll keep me company and be a very good companion. Her name is Mylie and so far she seems very sweet and even a little shy. She slept right by me all night which makes me think that she's feeling comfortable in her new home. I'm excited for the rest of my family to meet her this weekend! I think they'll like her as much as I do!

Having been a renter for quite some time...I am very well aware of the time and energy that goes into being a landlord. In fact, I know some landlords very well and they have filled me in on the business and all that goes into it. I recently came across some very useful rental property management software just for landlords that I think they would really appreciate knowing more about http://onsitepropertymanager.com . It got me thinking that there are probably others out there who want to learn more about them and that's why I thought I'd let you know what I found. This site offers a free 60 day trial of their web based software! It is so helpful to landlords who are looking to increase their rental property income. It also really makes daily life easier for them as it's easy to automatically post rents and late fees as well as print documents that you need too. Check them out if you'd like to learn more today!

I'm getting closer to making a decision between the kitties I'm looking at. I am pretty sure I've decided to get a tabby cat. Her picture is attached. They are calling her "darling" because she's so sweet and affectionate. She's also already liter trained which is nice too!! I think she's absolutely the cutest kitty I've ever seen and can't wait to meet her in person. I will let you know if she's the one I end up getting....

I have friends who were recently telling me that they just became part of a wine of the month club. I do not drink, so this is not something that I am interested in...however I know many people who would jump at a chance to try different wines. I had no idea that there was even such a club, did you?? Wow...it's amazing the things people come up!! I guess I learn something new every single day!! If you like wine, you should look into wine of the month clubs.

Sometimes it's frustrating to walk into a store, looking for a certain product and not having any clue what to buy because there are so many to choose from. I really like the fact that there is variety when it comes to things like cleaners or even pimple cream....but I don't like it when there are so many that I stand there for 10 minutes just going through them all. Do you ever have this problem with anything you buy? I don't know....maybe I'm the only one? It's just frustrating sometimes when you're in a hurry.

Have you ever been sitting in the exam room at the doctor's office waiting on your doctor to get drug information for your prescription? I know I have...I don't like waiting. That's why I thought it was great that the company Epocrates, Inc created medical software for a smartphone and PDA to help get doctor's information like drug dosing, side effects and health plan coverage on their PDA...which many of them carry on them at all times!! If you'd like to learn more about this PDA medical dictionary, you can head over to their site today and see what you think. It's actually very interesting. This announcement was paid for by Epocrates.

When I was younger I never really liked Chinese food. In fact, when my family would go to a restaurant like this, I would order McDonald's and eat that while they ate their food. Now, however...as I've gotten older I really enjoy it!! I don't know what my problem was when I was younger. The rice, chicken...everything ins SO good! And the best part is....there's a yummy restaurant near where my parents live that is probably the best place I've ever eaten. Maybe we can try to eat there soon?!?

....laundry!! I talk a lot about how I dislike doing bills...but I also dislike doing laundry...probably even more. I think my biggest problem with doing laundry is the fact that I have to share a machine with everyone else who lives in my apartment building. It will be nice to live in my own home where I can do laundry whenever I want. It's something I definitely look forward to having when I finally decide to buy my own home one day.

I've always been one to have an interest in investments. My dad and my Grandpa are both fond of this as well...I think that's where I get it from. I know a lot about Monex. They are a trusted leader when it comes to precious metals investments and have been around for almost 40 years!! No wonder thousands and thousands of people do business with them and trust them!! Monaco Rare Coin is also a part of Monex. They are a company that offers unique and variety of resources for collectors and investors like myself who are interested in rare coins. I was really impressed to learn more about them and hear that they have an extremely helpful and knowledgeable staff.

Have you ever heard of Camelback Displays before? They are a great company which offers very affordable trade show exhibits and the accessories needed like printed table top display!! I thought this was really neat and thought someone could really benefit from hearing all that they offer. They can even put a logo or custom artwork on the table covers, as well as full color and a message! Isn't that amazing?!! Wow!!

I also enjoyed learning that their trade show exhibits are convenient. They're portable and available in different sizes and designs. If you're interested in learning more about this great company, head over to their site today. YOu'll enjoy knowing that they not only have a lot to offer, but they also help over 4000 customers, from small businesses, schools, universities, churches and more. Check it out and see what you think!

On the same note about diet pills...have you ever been walking through a supermarket or store like Walmart and seen the over the counter diet pills? I think those are the ones that I'm most unsure about?! I feel like the ones that are offered by prescription only may be tested more and used with more people. Probably have been even recommended by a doctor which is usually a plus in my book. Have you ever tried an over the counter diet pill? If so, what was your experience?

I don't know what you think, but I'm not too sure about all the diet pill advertisements that I see daily. I mean, I'm sure that some of them work well, but the ones who claim to help you lose 30 pounds in a week...I don't know if that's healthy or possible! I'm not trying to bash every diet pills company....I do think that some of them probably help people in many ways. I just wish that more of them could be honest about the results so people could have realistic expectations.

Well, the work day is over and I couldn't be happier. It's really rainy and gloomy outside, one of those days where you just want to lay on the couch and watch TV. Work was really busy and I'm looking forward to a relaxing night at home. Hopefully Renee and I can hang out some, as she leaves for California in just a couple of days. It would be fun to have supper together and maybe even get a movie or something. We'll see?!

With so many people dealing with weight issues these days, I think it's great that there are options out there for them. Specifically when it comes to diet pills! Diet pills are something we hear about on television, the internet, radio, etc. I'm sure there are some that are better than others, as with any product on the market today. That's why the internet is a great resource to learn more about what's right for you. Recently I was looking up information on this very topic and came across ConsumerPriceWatch.net. They are a site that offers reviews for diet pills that work. They let you know what the top 10 best diet pills on the market are as well as offering reviews from real people who have experienced them before. In my opinion learning from other's and their experiences is one of the best ways to make a decision about a product before you buy it. What do you think?!? If you'd like to learn more about the good diet pills out there and what people have experienced with them, I strongly urge you to head over to their site today to learn more! You won't be sorry you did.

consumerpricewatch.net is an unbiased review site for diet pills. It revealed top 10 best diet pills on the

consumerpricewatch.net is an unbiased review site for diet pills. It revealed top 10 best diet pills on the market as well as review of various industry leading diet pills. Also it involves the consumers and their experiences

I don't know about you, but do you think it's absolutely ridiculous how big of a deal we make about celebrities having babies?!? I mean, come on...everyone has babies and they're not sought after like this. I guess it's just something we're seeing more and more of because there are so many people, Jami Lynn Spears, Jessica Alba, Angelina, etc...who are having babies. What I think is just totally absurd is the fact that magazines pay these people millions of dollars to take pictures of their baby/babies! Wow.....I don't konw?! Am I the only one that thinks this is a bit overboard?

Now that I have a little niece and nephew around...I have come to see some of the things that are really important to have with babies. One of these things is stimulating toys, and the other is a variety of children's books. Their birthdays are coming up in November, and I was asking my sister and my brother what their kids could use as gifts. They both told me the same thing....that they would love more books for them. I got searching online and came across Personalizedstories.com. I really liked this site because they have a nice selection of books that you can personalize with the child's name. I know this is something both babies would like...as well as their parents. You should check it out if you've never done so before. It's a great site! And, besides....personalized gifts are the best!

Ok...so even though I live in an apartment, I still try and keep the place as clean as I can. This means from time to time I have to do the dreaded job of vacuuming. I don't really mind it, but the old lady that lives on the floor below me really gets irritated with any noise that I make. Anyways...I have been noticing lately that my vacuum cleaner is not doing the best job. So tonight, Renee and and I are going to go and look at vacuum cleaners and see if there's a better one for me. We'll see how it goes.

Over the years I've learned that planning a vacation is usually stressful and not all that much fun. Once you're on vacation it's fun...but trying to book all of the hotels and plan what sort of entertainment is going to go on....it's quite exhausting. That's why I'm always on the lookout to make my vacation planning easier. Recently I found just the thing!!

Easytobook.com is a great site that makes it easy to book the hotels you're wanting to. For instance, recently I was looking at Naples Hotels and had no problem finding what it was I was looking for! So, whether you're looking for Sydney Hotels or even Cancun Hotels...this is the place you will find all the help you need! Don't wait another minute. Check out this site the next time you're planning a vacation. You won't be sorry you did!

It was sure fun to see my little niece and nephew playing together for the first time since Christmas last weekend. They're both around 8 months and were absolutely adorable. My nephew was just watching my niece as she crawled around and was standing up next to everything! She's VERY busy...and so cute. They were both cooing and jabbering to one another. I will definitely have to post pics soon. I can't wait to see them together at Christmas this year.

When I was back last weekend I stayed at my sister's house. They have a great place...with lots of room. They will have even more room once they get finished with their basement remodel...it's going to be awesome! She and her husband are always kind enough to let me stay there...even on late notice. They even let me do my clothes there which is great too. That saves me on money that I'd be spending on doing my laundry here. Yuck!! They have a pretty nice washer and dryer...but I guess are looking for new ones in the near future. They've been looking at dryers for quite some time...because theirs is acting up some. Either way...I really appreciate their hospitality.

I am not quite sure why...but I'm extremely tired today! I think it's probably a lack of sleep stemming from last weekend still. Over the holiday weekend I didn't get much sleep. I was up visiting with family...and also working on my computer. It's no fun being tired all the time though. I'm definitely going to have to do my best to stay rested this weekend so I don't have another tired week like I had this week.

ZenniOptical.com is a great choice if you're looking for stylish prescription glasses online. They offer glasses that are affordable...from only 8 dollars! Very impressive if you ask me! Did you see Zenni on Fox News? They were, and they let it be known that they have a large selection of styles and offerings that they have. Whether you're looking for single vision lenses, sunsensor lenses or even bifocals...they have it all. Learn more about all that they can do for you on their site today!

It's Friday!! YEAH! I don't really have any big plans for the weekend, but I'm just happy it's here finally! Even though it shouldn't have really been a long week...it felt like it went on forever. I'm happy to finally have some time to relax and enjoy just having nothing to do. It seems most weekend we are pretty busy, so it will be nice just to be. I know the next couple weekends will be really busy, so I'm going to enjoy just relaxing and enjoying time with Renee before she goes on vacation.

Have you ever been in the market for a new pair of prescription glasses that were stylish and low priced? I know I have. In fact, I currently am. That's why I've been looking around and recently came across zennioptical.com. They sell really stylish prescription glasses right here online. They offer a huge selection frames, lenses and more!! If you're looking for a great pair of glasses...check out ZenniOptical.com today!

In talking to my sister today she told me that my little niece went swimming in her little swimming pool for the first time today with her aunt!! It sounds like she had SO much fun. She was going to send me pictures of the fun experience once she got them on her computer. I can't wait to see them. I'm sure it was really cute getting to see her play around in the water. Hopefully I'll get to swim with her sometime too.

When one thinks about controversial issues facing our world today...they might think of stem cell research as being on top!! I know I do. That's why I was interested to read more about new research that is being done with stem cells from a woman's own menstrual blood. Have you heard about this yet? If not, you've come to the right place. With the busyness of life...women do not have time to get sick. Between work, family and relationships...getting ill is not something healthy young women think about. What's great is that, even though they don't think about it at this point...there is something they can do to help ensure that not only them, but also their children are better protected from possible life-threatening diseases like osteoporosis, heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. It's because of C'elle, which is a service who wants to help women with this safe method of collecting and preserving stem cells found in the menstrual fluid each month...that there are now options to help. You can learn more on their site as you read a Celle Client Testimonial or in the following press release:

Taking Control: Future Therapies for a Host of Serious Diseases May Be Found in Women's Menstrual Blood

July 07, 2008: 01:28 PM EST


OLDSMAR, Fla., July 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- With today’s hectic lifestyle, where most women are juggling careers, family, relationships, and a host of activities, the idea of possibly facing a serious illness in the future is not something that readily comes to mind -- especially when a woman is in the prime of her life. But what most women don’t know, is that the key to treating a number of possibly life-threatening diseases that she, a parent, a sibling or even her children may face in later years, such as osteoporosis, heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, may be found within her own body -- in vital stem cells, which can now be harvested from her own menstrual blood.

Now, thanks to the revolutionary research and technology of C’elle, a service dedicated to providing women with a safe and easy method of collecting and preserving stem cells found in her menstrual fluid each month, even the busiest woman can take control of her future, right in the privacy of her own home. With C’elle’s non-invasive collection process, menstrual cells are processed and cryo-preserved (stored at a very low temperature) for potential cellular therapies that may be used in the future. These self-renewing cells one day may even be used for sports medicine or cosmeceutical treatments, such as anti-aging therapies.

"C’elle enables and empowers a woman to take control of her future health, and possibly of those genetically closest to her, in a fast, painless and stress free way," said Michelle Kay, Marketing and Sales Manager for C’elle. "We live in exciting times, as science and technology are discovering how extremely valuable menstrual blood stem cells really are, and the enormous treatment potential they represent for future therapies. C’elle’s ongoing research is supporting these promising findings."

For more information about C’elle, please call 1-877-892-3553 or visit www.celle.com.

I'm jealous...I talked with my sister tonight and she told me that Kaelyn is going to be going out in her little swimming pool for the first time tomorrow. Kaelyn's aunt is coming over to go swimming with her...and I really thought that would be fun to do as well. It would be really great to sit with her in the pool and play. Hopefully we will get a nice day on a weekend sometime so I can do the same this summer.

This weekend we had so much fun seeing family and friends. We had time to spend together, just enjoying each other's company and eating lots of good food!! I have to admit that after all that good food I'm considering doing a little extra exercising this week. I don't necessarily think that I need to do any weight loss intervention or anything...but I'd just feel better doing a little extra physical activity.

I thought I was going to have the day off tomorrow...but it turns out I decided I will work. Renee and I decided to head back today because she has to work tomorrow morning. I figured I might as well work if I am going to be back home anyways. It's a little bit of a bummer but oh well...I'll just take off another day some time. I don't mind my job anyways...it's pretty fun engineering at Deere.

My Dad has been in the law enforcement field for as long as I can remember. When I was young he was a state patrol men, and all I remember is seeing him get ready for work and putting on that cool uniform. I wanted to be just like him when I grew up...and always loved when he put the hat on me before he went to work. I often wondered where people could buy police gear, and now I know...many years later. Lapolicegear.com is a great site that has a great deal to offer. If you're looking for police gear...maybe tactical gear, 5.11 Tactical Pants, or something like that....this is the site you need to check out today! I know that I'm going to share it with my dad...as I'm sure he could use some new police gear after all these years. See what you think and check it out today!

Wow...the week is almost over!! Well, the work week that is. I could get used to having four day weeks...that would be great!! Next week will be the same because I took off Monday too!! It's really very freshing to have a 4 day weekend, I think every one should get 4 day weekends all the time!! What do you think?!? It would definitely be something I'd vote yes for! haha Naw...I know that will never happen, but it's definitely something I can dream about, right?!

Shopping for weddings can be kind of stressful. I mean, there are so many stores...and not all of them have what you're looking for. Well, until now anyways. From what I can tell...many people would be very happy with Shot for Weddings. Shop For Weddings is the internet wedding superstore! They have much of what you will need to help plan your wedding. Whether it's personalized wedding favors or gifts for your groomsman and bridesmaids, they have it all!! It's wonderful to have such a place where you can find all that you're looking for a prices you will love! Check it out today and see what you think! You won't be sorry you did!

I'm trying to get all ready for this weekend and deciding what I should pack to go home. It's tough to know...especially when you just never know what the weather is going to do. Sometimes it's pretty cool out, and other times it's so hot I can hardly stand it. Obviously my swimsuit is a must...but besides that I really don't know. I always end up bringing way too much stuff which is a pain to take and then lug all the way back to my place. Oh well...it's better to prepared I guess.

I talk a lot about how I dislike doing bills...but I also dislike doing laundry...probably even more. I think my biggest problem with doing laundry is the fact that I have to share a machine with everyone else who lives in my apartment building. It will be nice to live in my own home where I can do laundry whenever I want. It's something I definitely look forward to having when I finally decide to buy my own home one day.

The sport of Paintball has been around for a while, and seem to be more and more popular each and every year. That's why there is such a site as ZephyrPaintball.com...which is completely dedicated to providing you with all you will need to play the game. They offer Airsoft Gear and equipment and low prices and free shipping on most items. They carry a complete line of paintball guns, goggles, hats, hoodies, airsoft rifles, jerseys, and more! Not only that, but you'll find great brands like Dye, JT USA, Kingman, PMI, Nelson and so many others. This is definitely the place to go for all your paintball needs! Check them out today and see what you think for yourself. Their site is very user friendly...so you won't have any problem finding exactly what you've been looking for.

I really think I need to go get my eyes checked soon. For some reason my glasses seem to be giving me headaches and they never used to. I think I may need a new prescription and that would help a lot. The problem is, I don't have a lot of time during the day to go and make an appointment. I suppose my eyes are important though and I should just do it. I hate going to the eye doctor...it's no fun at all!

I am not one to watch a lot of daytime television, but when I get the chance I really enjoy watching Dr. Phil. The stories that he has on his show are very interesting and realistic. They are things that many people can relate to and that's what I like. He's very knowledgeable in a lot of what he says, and it's interesting to hear his point of view on things. I don't always agree with what he says, but it's a fun show to watch. I enjoy it. Today he was discussing OJ Simpson's IF I DID IT book and what his take is on it. It was really interesting to hear.

Unfortunately even with cars there are things that can go wrong. Sometimes these things are small, and other times they are big. For the big things, like transmissions and engines don't stress....midwest auto recycling is here to help. They specialize in used engines and transmissions and have one of the strongest warranty nation wide. When purchasing something like this you'll know you're getting quality because not only have the miles been Carfax verified...but everything is inspected, tested and cleaned. The engines even come completely assembled! Wow!! If you'd like to learn more about this great company, check out their site today for more information.

I enjoy helping my family out when it comes to designing their blogs. My sister seems to be the one who shows the most interest in things like this...and is even branching off designing some of her own work. I'm very proud of her, as she's doing a great job. She still comes to me with questions...but overall is starting to understand html and how to use it to form a really great website! Sometime I'll have to put pictures up of some of the blogs I've helped my family create....if I must say so myself...they're pretty neat!

I just got to thinking about all the work that I have to do before I head back home for the weekend. I have to clean my place and do some laundry!! I think I might split it up between tonight and tomorrow so there's not quite so much to do. That usually goes over the best anyways. My place isn't too bad...but it could still use tidying up a bit so i don't come back to a mess to clean on Monday.

If you enjoy shopping as much as I do, then you'll definitely want to check out the great products that the Cable Shopping Network has to offer. CSN make it simple for you to find a variety of collectibles and have fun while you're doing it. They already have thousands of customers who are completely satisfied and continue to grow. In fact, they have become one of the most successful retailers in the collectibles market. If you'd like to learn more about the Cable Shopping Network, you can learn more about them on their site or on TV today!! See what you think for yourself. Maybe even check out their presidential dollars if you get the chance! You won't be sorry you did!!

Well, it's already well past supper time...so I'm thinking to myself..."what can I have for a snack?" Unfortunately I don't have a lot of food around my place, but I'm trying to think of something so I don't have to go out and get it. Maybe ice cream. Renee is coming over and she really likes it too. In fact, we could even make homemade ice cream with her ice cream maker! Yum!! Doesn't that sound good??

It's that time of year when I start to think about Golf. Last year I really got into golf, and have been looking forward to nicer weather ever since. This year I've only been out once so far, but now that the weather is continually getting warmer and warmer, it looks like I'll be able to go out much more very soon. It's nice that Renee enjoys it as much as I do. It's a fun sport that we can do together. Hopefully we'll find lots of time to do it this summer. My family is even getting into it a little, so it would be fun to go with them as well.

Have you ever heard of X8 before? They are a specialty store for hand drums. Today they announced that they have a new line of Pro African X8 djembe drums. So what's so great about them you ask? Well, they have a beautiful selection of handcrafted drums and accessories. You'll be impressed with their custom models and the variety they offer for both beginners and professionals. If you'd like to learn more you can find a wealth of information on their very user friendly and easy to navigate site. See what you think today and let me know! I am really excited to share this news with you and know you'll be ask happy as I am to have found them!

I'm sure I've said it before...but I'll say it again....I have the absolute cutest niece and nephew in the world!! They are adorable and so sweet!! I'm am the luckiest uncle ever. Especially because for only the second time in their lives, they're going to be together in the same place this weekend. They're both 8 months old and should be so much fun to watch!! I can't wait. I think that my niece will be crawling all over the place, while my nephew watches and stares.

Do you like making extra money? Do you like blogging? If you answered yes to both of these things...blogging for money is exactly what you can do on the side!! It's not a "get rich quick thing" but you definitely can make some very good money doing it!! I know I have. It was something I even did as a part time job while I was in school. I made just enough money to have a descent income while attending school. It was great!! I strongly recommend that all people do this, whether you're in school, working or something else! It's a perfect way to make a little extra money!