Marriage Tip | "Don't count the things you do.  Do the things that count." -Zig Ziglar

Today May 30th my husband and I celebrate 14 years of marriage!  We have had many times of bliss and also many times of choosing to walk in love and grace. No marriage is perfect, I encourage you to make it your aim to make your marriage the best you can by investing in your spouse with love and intention. Remind yourself continually this is the person you love and want to spend the rest of your days with. Think on all the reasons you fell in love, date your spouse and reignite your flame often. 

My bottom line for this post is to encourage you to do the things that count.  You know your spouse best.  What they like, appreciate and what brings them joy.  Don't keep track of all the things that you do for each other, rather choose daily to do the things that count.  The things that express love to your spouse.  Is that gifts, is that offering to pick something up from the store on the way home, is it love notes, watching the baseball game with them?  

I know it is great to be whisked away on a trip, it's great to receive long stemmed roses but it is just as great to be left a sticky note on the fridge or in the car saying "I love you, I am so happy I am married to you".  Those little everyday expressions of love will help keep your love alive.

I am so grateful for the text messages my husband sends throughout the day.  I know he can get busy and caught up in his work day and I can get busy and caught up in errands and taking care of the kids and house that you can sometimes feel disconnected or distant. Sending those thoughtful texts throughout the day let's each of us know that we are thinking of one another.  There are times when he sends more text messages than I do.  If I am involved in a project or it's a busy week with kids activities.  There are times when I send more text messages, when he is meeting deadlines, and sales goals.  It is key in marriage not to keep track of who did what and how often, but focus on what you can do to express your love and appreciation.  I always find it is reciprocated, maybe not always in the time frame we think or how we think but keep at loving and you will receive it back.  

I am so grateful when my husband uses face time, he does this quite often when he is out of town, but even sometimes when I text him something great about the kids or my day.  He will face time us and it just makes it more personal, like he is right here celebrating with us.

There have also been those times when he has so thoughtfully called or tried to face time and I have sent him to voicemail.  I remember one time in particular, I was helping three of the boys with homework, giving one a spelling test, cooking dinner, and had a crying little one on my hip.  After a number of calls I rudely answered and said "I'm a little busy here. I know you are enjoying your quiet drive home, I can't talk right now".  Not very nice of me, I know.  We all have those moments.  My frustration had nothing to do with him, but I took it out on him.  The key is to later go back and apologize and express how you appreciate his calls.  I don't want him to not call because I might be busy, that was not the message I intended to send, so it was important to express my apologies and appreciation for those calls.  

We both know each others favorite snacks and drinks.  I love when I find a coffee in the fridge.  I know that he thought of me and thought how it would bless my morning. I make it my goal to always sneak in a note in his bag if he is going out of town and keep around the house his favorite snacks.

Your spouses favorites can change over time and throughout different seasons in life.  I am always grateful when my husband offers to stop at the store for me.  I typically do the grocery shopping, but when I have a baby, my hubby takes over going to the store for me. When I had my son Isaiah, I don't think I went to the grocery store for like six months.  My hubby got in the habit of shopping, while I made the list, it was wonderful.  Stay flexible and look for, seek out, what would bless your spouse in your current season of life.  

It can be easy after being married for a while to think on all the things you do for your spouse or family.  If you think on all you do, you can sometimes get a sour attitude.  So rather than think on all the things you already do.  Have a servant attitude and think of what can you do today, what would count today in your relationship.  

I often tell my children with sibling spats, you cannot control another's actions.  You are only responsible for your actions and how you respond.  It is a good reminder for couples. You cannot make your spouse leave notes and make thoughtful gestures, you are only responsible for your actions.  As you invest, loving and thoughtful gestures your spouse will take notice.  Don't do these things so they take notice, back to the Ziglar quote, "Don't count the things you do.  Do the things that count."  Your love counts, your investment in your marriage counts, choose daily to do the things that count.  

I have heard widows share how they would give anything to be kept awake by their spouse snoring, or pick up their dirty laundry.  Remind yourself even in tough times that your spouse is a gift. Having them in your life is a blessing.  Make the best out of every moment, remember everyone has bad days, sometimes bad months. Choose grace and ask what can you do to make life easier for them, what can you do to bring a smile to their face.  

Thank you for reading if you've enjoyed the content you've read above please share with your friends. www.BlogAboutItAll.com 

Marriage Tip

Marriage Tip | "Don't count the things you do.  Do the things that count." -Zig Ziglar

Today May 30th my husband and I celebrate 14 years of marriage!  We have had many times of bliss and also many times of choosing to walk in love and grace. No marriage is perfect, I encourage you to make it your aim to make your marriage the best you can by investing in your spouse with love and intention. Remind yourself continually this is the person you love and want to spend the rest of your days with. Think on all the reasons you fell in love, date your spouse and reignite your flame often. 

My bottom line for this post is to encourage you to do the things that count.  You know your spouse best.  What they like, appreciate and what brings them joy.  Don't keep track of all the things that you do for each other, rather choose daily to do the things that count.  The things that express love to your spouse.  Is that gifts, is that offering to pick something up from the store on the way home, is it love notes, watching the baseball game with them?  

I know it is great to be whisked away on a trip, it's great to receive long stemmed roses but it is just as great to be left a sticky note on the fridge or in the car saying "I love you, I am so happy I am married to you".  Those little everyday expressions of love will help keep your love alive.

I am so grateful for the text messages my husband sends throughout the day.  I know he can get busy and caught up in his work day and I can get busy and caught up in errands and taking care of the kids and house that you can sometimes feel disconnected or distant. Sending those thoughtful texts throughout the day let's each of us know that we are thinking of one another.  There are times when he sends more text messages than I do.  If I am involved in a project or it's a busy week with kids activities.  There are times when I send more text messages, when he is meeting deadlines, and sales goals.  It is key in marriage not to keep track of who did what and how often, but focus on what you can do to express your love and appreciation.  I always find it is reciprocated, maybe not always in the time frame we think or how we think but keep at loving and you will receive it back.  

I am so grateful when my husband uses face time, he does this quite often when he is out of town, but even sometimes when I text him something great about the kids or my day.  He will face time us and it just makes it more personal, like he is right here celebrating with us.

There have also been those times when he has so thoughtfully called or tried to face time and I have sent him to voicemail.  I remember one time in particular, I was helping three of the boys with homework, giving one a spelling test, cooking dinner, and had a crying little one on my hip.  After a number of calls I rudely answered and said "I'm a little busy here. I know you are enjoying your quiet drive home, I can't talk right now".  Not very nice of me, I know.  We all have those moments.  My frustration had nothing to do with him, but I took it out on him.  The key is to later go back and apologize and express how you appreciate his calls.  I don't want him to not call because I might be busy, that was not the message I intended to send, so it was important to express my apologies and appreciation for those calls.  

We both know each others favorite snacks and drinks.  I love when I find a coffee in the fridge.  I know that he thought of me and thought how it would bless my morning. I make it my goal to always sneak in a note in his bag if he is going out of town and keep around the house his favorite snacks.

Your spouses favorites can change over time and throughout different seasons in life.  I am always grateful when my husband offers to stop at the store for me.  I typically do the grocery shopping, but when I have a baby, my hubby takes over going to the store for me. When I had my son Isaiah, I don't think I went to the grocery store for like six months.  My hubby got in the habit of shopping, while I made the list, it was wonderful.  Stay flexible and look for, seek out, what would bless your spouse in your current season of life.  

It can be easy after being married for a while to think on all the things you do for your spouse or family.  If you think on all you do, you can sometimes get a sour attitude.  So rather than think on all the things you already do.  Have a servant attitude and think of what can you do today, what would count today in your relationship.  

I often tell my children with sibling spats, you cannot control another's actions.  You are only responsible for your actions and how you respond.  It is a good reminder for couples. You cannot make your spouse leave notes and make thoughtful gestures, you are only responsible for your actions.  As you invest, loving and thoughtful gestures your spouse will take notice.  Don't do these things so they take notice, back to the Ziglar quote, "Don't count the things you do.  Do the things that count."  Your love counts, your investment in your marriage counts, choose daily to do the things that count.  

I have heard widows share how they would give anything to be kept awake by their spouse snoring, or pick up their dirty laundry.  Remind yourself even in tough times that your spouse is a gift. Having them in your life is a blessing.  Make the best out of every moment, remember everyone has bad days, sometimes bad months. Choose grace and ask what can you do to make life easier for them, what can you do to bring a smile to their face.  

Thank you for reading if you've enjoyed the content you've read above please share with your friends. www.BlogAboutItAll.com 
I had the opportunity to attend Media Night at the Sacramento County Fair before it was open to the public, I had so much fun!  You definitely want to go out and visit the Sacramento County Fair this Memorial Day Weekend at the Cal Expo Fair Grounds May 25-29, 2017.  

We have the perfect weather just in time to enjoy the rides, shows, food, and so much more! Admission is ONLY $6 for adults and kids 12 and under get in FREE!

We were able to taste test some delicious foods and desserts, I must admit fair food is one of the many reasons I love going to the fair.  We voted in the following categories, Best Item on a Stick, Best Savory Food, and Best Dessert. 


And the winners are...
Best New Fair Food Winner | Wellmon Concessions with The Cowboy Pastrami Sandwich
Best Item on a Stick Winner | Munch-a-Bunch with Tofu Corndog
Best Savory Food Winner | Noel’s Food with Tosti Elote
Best Dessert Winner | Ice Cream Company with Frozen Chocolate Dipped Cheesecake
My food favorites were the deep fried Pepper Jack Mac n Cheese and the Pad Thai and who can forget a Sacramento Favorite Squeeze Inn burger.  As for my sweet tooth I loved the S'mores Funnel Cake and Little Debbies Oatmeal Pie on a stick they were amazing.

We previewed the All Alaskan Pig Races.  Check out a video clip on my Facebook or Instagram page.  The pigs are so adorable and super fast. Each show has four pig races. These cute and cuddly racing animals fascinate spectators. The pigs are real crowd pleasers.  These natural comedians bolt from the starting gate and race around the track snorting and squealing, stubby legs churning and curly tails sailing along behind. 
We were entertained by the Ramos Brothers Circus.  Quite amazing to see two motorcycles in the cage together.  Ramos Brothers Circus (Big-Top style) performs 3 times per day, every day of the fair (free with admission).
Need a laugh?  Definitely check out the Captain Jack Spareribs Show.  Jack Spareribs and Maynard the Talking Monkey join a crew of audience volunteers. A fast paced mix of swashbuckling, rib tickling, pirate mayhem combined with magic, juggling, ventriloquism and the world's worst pirate jokes :). Voted Best Family Fun in the San Francisco Bay Area 7 years in a row!  There are multiple show times, everyday of the fair.
Be sure to check out Milos, a 2-story Pizza Truck!  As a second-generation fair food family, they run the first operational two-story food concession stand in the United States. This mean machine produces 135 pizzas and 900 corn dogs per hour. Milo himself has over 48 years in the food service industry.
One of my other favorite things to do at the fair is see all the farm animals.  There are a lot of local farmers who enter to win in different categories.  I love baby goats.  


The Fair is in its 81st consecutive year celebrating Sacramento.  Although I love all the fun it's not just about fun, rides and fair food, but also about promoting sustainable agriculture and education about how and where our food comes from as part of Sacramento’s overall commitment to being a Farm-to-fork leader.  This years theme is: “Let’s Eat, Have Fun & Celebrate the Red, White & Blue.” The fair is a smoke-free fair.  There are over 40 free events, performances & activities every day of the fair!

I hope you make it out to the fair this weekend with your family and friends!  They have a lot to offer for all ages and it is very affordable for families.

Dates:  Open from May 25 (Thursday) through Memorial Day, May 29 (Monday)
Fair hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Monday Memorial Day 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Location: Cal Expo Fairgrounds 1600 Exposition Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95815

Other Acts and Entertainment | 
Balloonacy | Dennis Forel, with a repertoire of over 108 different animals is considered one of America’s foremost balloon Sculptors.

Duck Races | The Great American Duck Race of New Mexico can add a unique experience to your special event, fair, or park that offers quality family entertainment in every show.

Kids Pedal Tractor Pulls | The kids become the stars of the show while they compete in a fast paced, action packed pedal powered tractor pull. Kids four to twelve years old are welcome to join in the show for free and try their skill. The tractors and pulling sleds are built for fun and designed to produce smiles and laughter!

Great American Petting Zoo | The Petting Zoo is truly unique; there are no barriers inside the petting zoo to keep children from getting up close and personal with cute, cuddly, and immaculately clean animals. With award winning combination of friendly animals and caring staff, we provide families all over America with a one of a kind hands-on experience. All day, every day!

Something Ridiculous | Something Ridiculous is the high-energy juggling and acrobatic act performed by slapstick stuntmen Mark Wilder and VonJon. Juggling almost anything they can get their hands on, the comic duo climbs up a free-standing ladder, onto a tenfoot-tall unicycle or atop each other's shoulders in a wildly entertaining, dynamic show.

Welcome to the jungle - A Wildlife Experience | A Walk On The Wild Side is an organization dedicated to helping all species of wild animals who, for various reasons, find themselves without a place to live out their lives. 

Wild Science | Take an excursion into the wild and amazing world of science through dozens of highly interactive, fun, and visually captivating displays and activities. Journeying through Wild Science!, families, adults, and children can experience the mysterious and entertaining aspects of science and technology in a fun and casual environment. 

Puff, the Magic Dragon | In this fast-paced fantasy adventure, Little Jackie Paper and Puff return to the magical land of Honalee and discover that the mystical “Magic Box”.  During their quest, our heroes fight a duel onboard a pirate ship with Captain Bilgewater and his sidekick Grog, face a fearful storm at sea, and travel to the bottom of the ocean, where they meet a friendly and wise octopus named Rastapus, who helps Jackie discover that the “Magic Box” contains “the most powerful magic of all,” the magic of his own imagination. 


Charlie the Veloci Raptor | Dedicated in taking you into the lost world of real-life, walking dinosaurs and giving you a HD Alive experience like no other. Every day of the fair, multiple

show times.

Grand Stand Events | Require Separate Admission
Lil’ Monster Trucks & UTV RZR Racing | May 25 and May 26, 2017 | Show starts at 7 PM

Lasher’s Stars & Stripes Bull Riding | Sponsored by Lasher’s Elk Grove RAM | May 27, 2017 Show starts at 7 PM

Gran Jaripeo y Baile | May 28, 2017 | Doors 3:00 PM | Jose Manuel Figueroa, Las Jilguerillas y mucho mas!

Tractor Pull | May 29, 2017 | Pulls 1:00 PM | Separate Fair Admission Required

For Tickets and more information please visit www.sacfair.com.

#ShareTheFair and follow us on 

Thank you for reading if you’ve enjoyed the content you’ve read above please share with your friends. www.BlogAboutItAll.com.

Sacramento County Fair May 25-29, 2017

I had the opportunity to attend Media Night at the Sacramento County Fair before it was open to the public, I had so much fun!  You definitely want to go out and visit the Sacramento County Fair this Memorial Day Weekend at the Cal Expo Fair Grounds May 25-29, 2017.  

We have the perfect weather just in time to enjoy the rides, shows, food, and so much more! Admission is ONLY $6 for adults and kids 12 and under get in FREE!

We were able to taste test some delicious foods and desserts, I must admit fair food is one of the many reasons I love going to the fair.  We voted in the following categories, Best Item on a Stick, Best Savory Food, and Best Dessert. 


And the winners are...
Best New Fair Food Winner | Wellmon Concessions with The Cowboy Pastrami Sandwich
Best Item on a Stick Winner | Munch-a-Bunch with Tofu Corndog
Best Savory Food Winner | Noel’s Food with Tosti Elote
Best Dessert Winner | Ice Cream Company with Frozen Chocolate Dipped Cheesecake
My food favorites were the deep fried Pepper Jack Mac n Cheese and the Pad Thai and who can forget a Sacramento Favorite Squeeze Inn burger.  As for my sweet tooth I loved the S'mores Funnel Cake and Little Debbies Oatmeal Pie on a stick they were amazing.

We previewed the All Alaskan Pig Races.  Check out a video clip on my Facebook or Instagram page.  The pigs are so adorable and super fast. Each show has four pig races. These cute and cuddly racing animals fascinate spectators. The pigs are real crowd pleasers.  These natural comedians bolt from the starting gate and race around the track snorting and squealing, stubby legs churning and curly tails sailing along behind. 
We were entertained by the Ramos Brothers Circus.  Quite amazing to see two motorcycles in the cage together.  Ramos Brothers Circus (Big-Top style) performs 3 times per day, every day of the fair (free with admission).
Need a laugh?  Definitely check out the Captain Jack Spareribs Show.  Jack Spareribs and Maynard the Talking Monkey join a crew of audience volunteers. A fast paced mix of swashbuckling, rib tickling, pirate mayhem combined with magic, juggling, ventriloquism and the world's worst pirate jokes :). Voted Best Family Fun in the San Francisco Bay Area 7 years in a row!  There are multiple show times, everyday of the fair.
Be sure to check out Milos, a 2-story Pizza Truck!  As a second-generation fair food family, they run the first operational two-story food concession stand in the United States. This mean machine produces 135 pizzas and 900 corn dogs per hour. Milo himself has over 48 years in the food service industry.
One of my other favorite things to do at the fair is see all the farm animals.  There are a lot of local farmers who enter to win in different categories.  I love baby goats.  


The Fair is in its 81st consecutive year celebrating Sacramento.  Although I love all the fun it's not just about fun, rides and fair food, but also about promoting sustainable agriculture and education about how and where our food comes from as part of Sacramento’s overall commitment to being a Farm-to-fork leader.  This years theme is: “Let’s Eat, Have Fun & Celebrate the Red, White & Blue.” The fair is a smoke-free fair.  There are over 40 free events, performances & activities every day of the fair!

I hope you make it out to the fair this weekend with your family and friends!  They have a lot to offer for all ages and it is very affordable for families.

Dates:  Open from May 25 (Thursday) through Memorial Day, May 29 (Monday)
Fair hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Monday Memorial Day 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Location: Cal Expo Fairgrounds 1600 Exposition Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95815

Other Acts and Entertainment | 
Balloonacy | Dennis Forel, with a repertoire of over 108 different animals is considered one of America’s foremost balloon Sculptors.

Duck Races | The Great American Duck Race of New Mexico can add a unique experience to your special event, fair, or park that offers quality family entertainment in every show.

Kids Pedal Tractor Pulls | The kids become the stars of the show while they compete in a fast paced, action packed pedal powered tractor pull. Kids four to twelve years old are welcome to join in the show for free and try their skill. The tractors and pulling sleds are built for fun and designed to produce smiles and laughter!

Great American Petting Zoo | The Petting Zoo is truly unique; there are no barriers inside the petting zoo to keep children from getting up close and personal with cute, cuddly, and immaculately clean animals. With award winning combination of friendly animals and caring staff, we provide families all over America with a one of a kind hands-on experience. All day, every day!

Something Ridiculous | Something Ridiculous is the high-energy juggling and acrobatic act performed by slapstick stuntmen Mark Wilder and VonJon. Juggling almost anything they can get their hands on, the comic duo climbs up a free-standing ladder, onto a tenfoot-tall unicycle or atop each other's shoulders in a wildly entertaining, dynamic show.

Welcome to the jungle - A Wildlife Experience | A Walk On The Wild Side is an organization dedicated to helping all species of wild animals who, for various reasons, find themselves without a place to live out their lives. 

Wild Science | Take an excursion into the wild and amazing world of science through dozens of highly interactive, fun, and visually captivating displays and activities. Journeying through Wild Science!, families, adults, and children can experience the mysterious and entertaining aspects of science and technology in a fun and casual environment. 

Puff, the Magic Dragon | In this fast-paced fantasy adventure, Little Jackie Paper and Puff return to the magical land of Honalee and discover that the mystical “Magic Box”.  During their quest, our heroes fight a duel onboard a pirate ship with Captain Bilgewater and his sidekick Grog, face a fearful storm at sea, and travel to the bottom of the ocean, where they meet a friendly and wise octopus named Rastapus, who helps Jackie discover that the “Magic Box” contains “the most powerful magic of all,” the magic of his own imagination. 


Charlie the Veloci Raptor | Dedicated in taking you into the lost world of real-life, walking dinosaurs and giving you a HD Alive experience like no other. Every day of the fair, multiple

show times.

Grand Stand Events | Require Separate Admission
Lil’ Monster Trucks & UTV RZR Racing | May 25 and May 26, 2017 | Show starts at 7 PM

Lasher’s Stars & Stripes Bull Riding | Sponsored by Lasher’s Elk Grove RAM | May 27, 2017 Show starts at 7 PM

Gran Jaripeo y Baile | May 28, 2017 | Doors 3:00 PM | Jose Manuel Figueroa, Las Jilguerillas y mucho mas!

Tractor Pull | May 29, 2017 | Pulls 1:00 PM | Separate Fair Admission Required

For Tickets and more information please visit www.sacfair.com.

#ShareTheFair and follow us on 

Thank you for reading if you’ve enjoyed the content you’ve read above please share with your friends. www.BlogAboutItAll.com.
When I meet with people about their budget, many times people think there is no where else they can find money to help pay off debt, or save for a vacation.  

Here are some places that I have had to re-evaluate over time when I needed to adjust our budget.  These areas are good to look at even if you are debt free or have a good budget that you work with each month.  Don't just read this post and say yes I should look into that, make a plan of attack if you go through each of these categories one a week, you can add cash to your pocket this month!

Just this year, my husband and I re-evaluated our vehicle insurance.  We switched companies and found an annual savings of over $500.

Here is a list of the top things you should evaluate annually or at renewal.  Shop around do not assume you already have the best price or plan.  If you have been with a provider for a long period of time, and have a good track record ask for a discount.  Keep your big goals in your perspective, when looking over these areas to see if you can reduce or even eliminate them.

Vehicle Insurance | It costs nothing to receive a quote for vehicle insurance.  Shop around before your renewal comes up.  If you have a good driving record, ask for those discounts.  

Cable TV Provider | Is cable the best choice in light of your goals, getting out of debt, going on that dream vacation.  Most plans at a minimum cost $70 a month, is it really worth it. Can you use Netflix, Amazon Prime or other more economical choices for TV viewing.

Cell Phone | Is your plan the right fit?  Do you use all your minutes and data or can you downsize?  Have you shopped around recently.

Gym Membership | Do you actually use your gym membership?  So many people pay a monthly fee and rarely go.  I know sometimes you are under contract and there is a large fee to cancel, do the math and see if that is a benefit.  Some gyms allow you to put your membership on hold for a small monthly fee, that might help you short term.

Newspapers & Magazines | I'm all for the printed material, if your budget allows it. In this day and age with the internet, you can find most newspapers, magazines, and even books if not the exact one you have, definitely one similar for free on-line. 

You can find cash right within your budget by choosing to live a frugal lifestyle. Most people can do something for a period of time or with a goal in mind.  So if you keep the goal of getting out of debt before you it may help you make it through this season in your life.

Dine In | Just like you, I enjoy going to restaurants, you don't have to prepare the meal or clean up the meal, it is nice.  There have been times in our life where we did not go out to eat for months with our ultimate goal in mind.  It is cheaper to eat in, you can save a ton of money here.  Go through your credit card statements and bank account and add up how much you spend on out to eat, I think you will be surprised, it adds up quickly.  Don't forget to add up those coffee purchases, energy drink purchases and convenience store stops. If you are going to go out to eat, look for savings.  My hubby always finds great date night deals on Groupon, another money saving tip for dining out is using the Entertainment Coupon Book.

Services | Review the extra services you pay for like lawn care, house cleaning, dry cleaning.  Can you do any of these things yourself to save money?  Again it does not have to be forever, but if you find yourself stretched financially or with a greater goal like paying off debt or going on a vacation then sometimes it is worth you doing the service yourself. What do you spend on grooming each month, hair cuts, manicures, can you do these at home.  Can you swap services with friends or family, maybe you can babysit each other kids for date nights, or maybe you can do a friends oil change in exchange for some other service.

Money Saving Apps | My favorite app that I use to save money is Ibotta, this is quick easy savings app for purchases you are already making.  You make a purchase, scan the product upload your receipt and receive money to your PayPal or you can choose select gift cards. Click my link: https://ibotta.com/r/qygfhq and receive a sign up bonus, join my team and reach more bonuses. This past March I earned $37, this is on everyday groceries that I already am buying. 

Shopkick is another app I use, this one I do more for fun, it takes a little longer to earn, but basically you receive kicks every time you go to certain stores, you open the app, receive your kicks, I usually use my earnings on this app for Star Bucks treats.  Again, free money the way I see it, I'm already at those stores, open the app, earn the kicks, receive free money. Link to sign up: https://app.shopkick.com/r/jpn9P
There are more apps like Raise, Checkout 51, Target Cartwheel, Safeway App, Starbucks App and more!

Some other money saving tips.
  • Do not go to the grocery store when hungry. 
  • Always shop with a list.
  • Plan your meals around what is on sale and what is in season.
  • Eat less meat, schedule a meatless Monday in your menu planning.
  • Use coupons (not only for groceries, but oil changes, clothing shopping, search on-line for coupons before you shop)
  • Shop around.  No impulse buying.  Again with smart phones handy, it is easy to price check another store, you may think it doesn't matter but all these savings add up.
  • Have a garage sale.
  • Repair an item if you can rather than purchasing a new one.  
  • Look for FREE entertainment.  With summer approaching there are a lot of concerts in the park, movie nights in the park.  
I know when you are trying to get out of debt or save for a vacation or large purchase the goal or prize can seem so far away.  Do not quit, stick to your budget and keep evaluating your spending monthly.  You will see the reward before you know it.  You will also get better at budgeting and frugal living, once you find some savings you will want to find more.

Thank you for reading if you've enjoyed the content you've read above please share with your friends.  www.BlogAboutItAll.com

Check out some of my other posts on budgeting!  Many of these posts are from when I first started blogging. :)









Money Saving Tips

When I meet with people about their budget, many times people think there is no where else they can find money to help pay off debt, or save for a vacation.  

Here are some places that I have had to re-evaluate over time when I needed to adjust our budget.  These areas are good to look at even if you are debt free or have a good budget that you work with each month.  Don't just read this post and say yes I should look into that, make a plan of attack if you go through each of these categories one a week, you can add cash to your pocket this month!

Just this year, my husband and I re-evaluated our vehicle insurance.  We switched companies and found an annual savings of over $500.

Here is a list of the top things you should evaluate annually or at renewal.  Shop around do not assume you already have the best price or plan.  If you have been with a provider for a long period of time, and have a good track record ask for a discount.  Keep your big goals in your perspective, when looking over these areas to see if you can reduce or even eliminate them.

Vehicle Insurance | It costs nothing to receive a quote for vehicle insurance.  Shop around before your renewal comes up.  If you have a good driving record, ask for those discounts.  

Cable TV Provider | Is cable the best choice in light of your goals, getting out of debt, going on that dream vacation.  Most plans at a minimum cost $70 a month, is it really worth it. Can you use Netflix, Amazon Prime or other more economical choices for TV viewing.

Cell Phone | Is your plan the right fit?  Do you use all your minutes and data or can you downsize?  Have you shopped around recently.

Gym Membership | Do you actually use your gym membership?  So many people pay a monthly fee and rarely go.  I know sometimes you are under contract and there is a large fee to cancel, do the math and see if that is a benefit.  Some gyms allow you to put your membership on hold for a small monthly fee, that might help you short term.

Newspapers & Magazines | I'm all for the printed material, if your budget allows it. In this day and age with the internet, you can find most newspapers, magazines, and even books if not the exact one you have, definitely one similar for free on-line. 

You can find cash right within your budget by choosing to live a frugal lifestyle. Most people can do something for a period of time or with a goal in mind.  So if you keep the goal of getting out of debt before you it may help you make it through this season in your life.

Dine In | Just like you, I enjoy going to restaurants, you don't have to prepare the meal or clean up the meal, it is nice.  There have been times in our life where we did not go out to eat for months with our ultimate goal in mind.  It is cheaper to eat in, you can save a ton of money here.  Go through your credit card statements and bank account and add up how much you spend on out to eat, I think you will be surprised, it adds up quickly.  Don't forget to add up those coffee purchases, energy drink purchases and convenience store stops. If you are going to go out to eat, look for savings.  My hubby always finds great date night deals on Groupon, another money saving tip for dining out is using the Entertainment Coupon Book.

Services | Review the extra services you pay for like lawn care, house cleaning, dry cleaning.  Can you do any of these things yourself to save money?  Again it does not have to be forever, but if you find yourself stretched financially or with a greater goal like paying off debt or going on a vacation then sometimes it is worth you doing the service yourself. What do you spend on grooming each month, hair cuts, manicures, can you do these at home.  Can you swap services with friends or family, maybe you can babysit each other kids for date nights, or maybe you can do a friends oil change in exchange for some other service.

Money Saving Apps | My favorite app that I use to save money is Ibotta, this is quick easy savings app for purchases you are already making.  You make a purchase, scan the product upload your receipt and receive money to your PayPal or you can choose select gift cards. Click my link: https://ibotta.com/r/qygfhq and receive a sign up bonus, join my team and reach more bonuses. This past March I earned $37, this is on everyday groceries that I already am buying. 

Shopkick is another app I use, this one I do more for fun, it takes a little longer to earn, but basically you receive kicks every time you go to certain stores, you open the app, receive your kicks, I usually use my earnings on this app for Star Bucks treats.  Again, free money the way I see it, I'm already at those stores, open the app, earn the kicks, receive free money. Link to sign up: https://app.shopkick.com/r/jpn9P
There are more apps like Raise, Checkout 51, Target Cartwheel, Safeway App, Starbucks App and more!

Some other money saving tips.
  • Do not go to the grocery store when hungry. 
  • Always shop with a list.
  • Plan your meals around what is on sale and what is in season.
  • Eat less meat, schedule a meatless Monday in your menu planning.
  • Use coupons (not only for groceries, but oil changes, clothing shopping, search on-line for coupons before you shop)
  • Shop around.  No impulse buying.  Again with smart phones handy, it is easy to price check another store, you may think it doesn't matter but all these savings add up.
  • Have a garage sale.
  • Repair an item if you can rather than purchasing a new one.  
  • Look for FREE entertainment.  With summer approaching there are a lot of concerts in the park, movie nights in the park.  
I know when you are trying to get out of debt or save for a vacation or large purchase the goal or prize can seem so far away.  Do not quit, stick to your budget and keep evaluating your spending monthly.  You will see the reward before you know it.  You will also get better at budgeting and frugal living, once you find some savings you will want to find more.

Thank you for reading if you've enjoyed the content you've read above please share with your friends.  www.BlogAboutItAll.com

Check out some of my other posts on budgeting!  Many of these posts are from when I first started blogging. :)









30 Years of Fun Fair Food – Corn Dogs, Pizza, and Entertainment

This year the Sacramento County Fair is on Memorial Day Weekend, May 25-29, 2017.  I will be attending a media night next week before the fair is open to the public and will share on my blog and social media channels all my fun finds, be sure to follow along on social media and check back on the blog.   

Find me on Facebook | @theblogaboutitall
Twitter | @blogaboutitall
Instagram | @blogaboutitall

Here are just a few of thing things I'm looking forward to.

Fair Food
One of my favorite things about the fair is Fair Food.  The 2017 Sacramento County Fair boasts numerous concession stands and quick-eats, but Milo’s is one concession stand that does it differently. As a second-generation fair food family, they run the first operational two-story food concession stand in the United States. This mean machine produces 135 pizzas and 900 corn dogs per hour. Milo himself has over 48 years in the food service industry, but it’s his family in the business right beside him that makes it all the more worthwhile.

Most of the concession stand action takes place behind-the-scenes, so this stand was created to provide a little education and fun. Milo’s stand actually boasts a second-story window to give customers a sneak-peak inside the dough and cheese room upstairs. After the ingredients are prepped up top, the food travels down to the first-floor via dumbwaiter to be assembled and served to the fair-goers. Milo’s aims to do more than simply provide delicious food, they strive to provide a unique and fun experience for every single customer.

Walk on the Wild Side
One of the things I know my kids are looking forward to seeing is the Welcome to the Jungle featuring Walk on the Wild Side! The Cal Expo Fairgrounds will be filled with the sounds of the jungle as Walk on the Wild Side brings exotic species of wild animals to an up close and personal experience. The exhibit, presented by Lasher’s Elk Grove Subaru, is open every day of the fair and is included with the price of admission (kids 12-and-under are FREE!). This immersive experience transports fair-goers to wild places from all over the world and allows them to get up close with the animals that inhabit them.

Lil' Monster Trucks
Tiny monster trucks will take over the arena on May 25th and 26th. Lil’ Monster Trucks is a small-scale monster truck team consisting of drivers ages 6-17 years old. These young drivers are doing more than just putting on a show, they are a professional team that travels the country touting positive messages, such as, anti-bullying, Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.), and autism awareness.

Over 100,000 guests will enjoy the Sacramento County Fair May 25-29, 2017 at the Cal Expo Fairgrounds.  Nearly 10,000 school children will enjoy educational school tours.  5,000 local Sacramento residents will compete for awards in the livestock and competitive exhibit programs.  

Adult admission is only $6.00 and admission for kids 12-and-under is free every day of the Fair.  This year, the Sacramento County Fair will be the biggest and best in its over 80-year history, and the theme is “Let’s Eat, Have Fun & Celebrate the Red, White & Blue.”

Getting to the Sacramento County Fair at Cal Expo
1600 Exposition Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95815. Vehicle entry through Gate D at Exposition Blvd and Challenge Way. Gate admission is located at the entrance to the Cal Expo Rodeo Arena. 



Fair Admission | Kids 0-12: FREE | Admission: $6.00

Parking | $10.00

Bike Parking | Limited bike parking is available near the Rodeo Gate Entrance. 

The Sacramento County Fair is a Smoke Free Fair!
Please smoke before entering the Fair. A designated smoking section is located prior to entry.

Mommy Lounge - Bldg C | A private place for nursing moms enjoying the Fair

Fair Hours
May 25 - 26, Thursday and Friday 10 am - 10 pm
May 27- 28, Saturday and Sunday 10 am - 10 pm
May 29, Monday, US Army Memorial Day 10 am - 7 pm


Carnival Hours
May 25 - 26, Thursday and Friday 11am – 10 pm
May 27- 28, Saturday and Sunday 11 am - 10 pm
May 29, Monday, Memorial Day 11 am - 7 pm


Building Hours
Building C: Local arts, crafts, demonstrations & Wild Science
Building D: The Shoppers Expo with extraordinary products & services, free drawing daily 

Thursday - Sunday - 10 am - 10 pm
Monday, Memorial Day - 10 am - 7 pm

Livestock Pavilion Hours
Thursday - Sunday 8 am - 8 pm
Junior Livestock Auction, Sunday 10 am - 6 pm
Monday, Memorial Day * 10 am - 5 pm
*Most animals leave the Fair early on Monday morning. To visit the most animals please plan to visit before Monday.

For more information please visit www.sacfair.com.

#ShareTheFair and follow us on Facebook |



Thank you for reading if you’ve enjoyed the content you’ve read above please share with your friends. www.BlogAboutItAll.com.

Sacramento 2017 County Fair

30 Years of Fun Fair Food – Corn Dogs, Pizza, and Entertainment

This year the Sacramento County Fair is on Memorial Day Weekend, May 25-29, 2017.  I will be attending a media night next week before the fair is open to the public and will share on my blog and social media channels all my fun finds, be sure to follow along on social media and check back on the blog.   

Find me on Facebook | @theblogaboutitall
Twitter | @blogaboutitall
Instagram | @blogaboutitall

Here are just a few of thing things I'm looking forward to.

Fair Food
One of my favorite things about the fair is Fair Food.  The 2017 Sacramento County Fair boasts numerous concession stands and quick-eats, but Milo’s is one concession stand that does it differently. As a second-generation fair food family, they run the first operational two-story food concession stand in the United States. This mean machine produces 135 pizzas and 900 corn dogs per hour. Milo himself has over 48 years in the food service industry, but it’s his family in the business right beside him that makes it all the more worthwhile.

Most of the concession stand action takes place behind-the-scenes, so this stand was created to provide a little education and fun. Milo’s stand actually boasts a second-story window to give customers a sneak-peak inside the dough and cheese room upstairs. After the ingredients are prepped up top, the food travels down to the first-floor via dumbwaiter to be assembled and served to the fair-goers. Milo’s aims to do more than simply provide delicious food, they strive to provide a unique and fun experience for every single customer.

Walk on the Wild Side
One of the things I know my kids are looking forward to seeing is the Welcome to the Jungle featuring Walk on the Wild Side! The Cal Expo Fairgrounds will be filled with the sounds of the jungle as Walk on the Wild Side brings exotic species of wild animals to an up close and personal experience. The exhibit, presented by Lasher’s Elk Grove Subaru, is open every day of the fair and is included with the price of admission (kids 12-and-under are FREE!). This immersive experience transports fair-goers to wild places from all over the world and allows them to get up close with the animals that inhabit them.

Lil' Monster Trucks
Tiny monster trucks will take over the arena on May 25th and 26th. Lil’ Monster Trucks is a small-scale monster truck team consisting of drivers ages 6-17 years old. These young drivers are doing more than just putting on a show, they are a professional team that travels the country touting positive messages, such as, anti-bullying, Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.), and autism awareness.

Over 100,000 guests will enjoy the Sacramento County Fair May 25-29, 2017 at the Cal Expo Fairgrounds.  Nearly 10,000 school children will enjoy educational school tours.  5,000 local Sacramento residents will compete for awards in the livestock and competitive exhibit programs.  

Adult admission is only $6.00 and admission for kids 12-and-under is free every day of the Fair.  This year, the Sacramento County Fair will be the biggest and best in its over 80-year history, and the theme is “Let’s Eat, Have Fun & Celebrate the Red, White & Blue.”

Getting to the Sacramento County Fair at Cal Expo
1600 Exposition Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95815. Vehicle entry through Gate D at Exposition Blvd and Challenge Way. Gate admission is located at the entrance to the Cal Expo Rodeo Arena. 



Fair Admission | Kids 0-12: FREE | Admission: $6.00

Parking | $10.00

Bike Parking | Limited bike parking is available near the Rodeo Gate Entrance. 

The Sacramento County Fair is a Smoke Free Fair!
Please smoke before entering the Fair. A designated smoking section is located prior to entry.

Mommy Lounge - Bldg C | A private place for nursing moms enjoying the Fair

Fair Hours
May 25 - 26, Thursday and Friday 10 am - 10 pm
May 27- 28, Saturday and Sunday 10 am - 10 pm
May 29, Monday, US Army Memorial Day 10 am - 7 pm


Carnival Hours
May 25 - 26, Thursday and Friday 11am – 10 pm
May 27- 28, Saturday and Sunday 11 am - 10 pm
May 29, Monday, Memorial Day 11 am - 7 pm


Building Hours
Building C: Local arts, crafts, demonstrations & Wild Science
Building D: The Shoppers Expo with extraordinary products & services, free drawing daily 

Thursday - Sunday - 10 am - 10 pm
Monday, Memorial Day - 10 am - 7 pm

Livestock Pavilion Hours
Thursday - Sunday 8 am - 8 pm
Junior Livestock Auction, Sunday 10 am - 6 pm
Monday, Memorial Day * 10 am - 5 pm
*Most animals leave the Fair early on Monday morning. To visit the most animals please plan to visit before Monday.

For more information please visit www.sacfair.com.

#ShareTheFair and follow us on Facebook |



Thank you for reading if you’ve enjoyed the content you’ve read above please share with your friends. www.BlogAboutItAll.com.
Today I was on Fox 40 News at Noon sharing tips on summer entertaining and how to have a delicious and fun Memorial Day or 4th of July party.

You can view the segment here: Fox 40 | Patriotic Party Ideas

Our family usually attends our local Memorial Day Parade, many years our boys have participated in our church float.  When we are finished at the parade we usually have friends and family over.  My boys are always hungry and ready to eat so I try to plan on having everything prepared ahead of time.


Using Expresco Pro-Sticks makes entertaining really easy, they are fully cooked, ready to eat. Pro-Sticks are a healthy snack packed with 23 grams of protein. You can find Expresco Chicken Skewers at Safeway or Costco. They come in Mediterranean, Chipotle, and Sweet Sriracha.


Memorial Day is a great time to celebrate the brave men and women who have fought for our country and 4th of July America’s Independence, the warm summer weather, food and good times with family and friends make it extra special.  Think back to the big events in your life or important celebrations. Food is usually at the center of every party, holiday or family get-together.

I like to keep it simple yet festive.  This way I do not have to be in the kitchen or behind the grill while my friends and family are here.  

My menu for this Memorial Day:
Expresco Pro-Stick Chicken Skewers
Potato Salad
Chips
Veggie Tray
Fresh Fuit
Patriotic Jello Cups
Patriotic Rice Krispies

Another simple and festive snack is this Patriotic Snack Mix.  Super easy to toss together, it is popcorn, (I used a mix of Kettle Corn and White Cheddar), Pretzels dipped in white chocolate topped with sprinkles and red, white, blue candies.  You could add mini marshmallows and cereals too.  
Here is the link for Patriotic Jello Cups.  If you want to craft with your kids and make your own DIY Patriotic T-Shirts check out my how to here and you can learn more about Expresco ProSticks (Chicken Skewers) at http://www.exprescoprosticks.com/.

Thank you for reading if you've enjoyed the content you've read above please share with your friends.  www.BlogAboutItAll.com

Here is the Studio 40 Live Segment:

Fox 40 News | Memorial Day & 4th of July Parties

Today I was on Fox 40 News at Noon sharing tips on summer entertaining and how to have a delicious and fun Memorial Day or 4th of July party.

You can view the segment here: Fox 40 | Patriotic Party Ideas

Our family usually attends our local Memorial Day Parade, many years our boys have participated in our church float.  When we are finished at the parade we usually have friends and family over.  My boys are always hungry and ready to eat so I try to plan on having everything prepared ahead of time.


Using Expresco Pro-Sticks makes entertaining really easy, they are fully cooked, ready to eat. Pro-Sticks are a healthy snack packed with 23 grams of protein. You can find Expresco Chicken Skewers at Safeway or Costco. They come in Mediterranean, Chipotle, and Sweet Sriracha.


Memorial Day is a great time to celebrate the brave men and women who have fought for our country and 4th of July America’s Independence, the warm summer weather, food and good times with family and friends make it extra special.  Think back to the big events in your life or important celebrations. Food is usually at the center of every party, holiday or family get-together.

I like to keep it simple yet festive.  This way I do not have to be in the kitchen or behind the grill while my friends and family are here.  

My menu for this Memorial Day:
Expresco Pro-Stick Chicken Skewers
Potato Salad
Chips
Veggie Tray
Fresh Fuit
Patriotic Jello Cups
Patriotic Rice Krispies

Another simple and festive snack is this Patriotic Snack Mix.  Super easy to toss together, it is popcorn, (I used a mix of Kettle Corn and White Cheddar), Pretzels dipped in white chocolate topped with sprinkles and red, white, blue candies.  You could add mini marshmallows and cereals too.  
Here is the link for Patriotic Jello Cups.  If you want to craft with your kids and make your own DIY Patriotic T-Shirts check out my how to here and you can learn more about Expresco ProSticks (Chicken Skewers) at http://www.exprescoprosticks.com/.

Thank you for reading if you've enjoyed the content you've read above please share with your friends.  www.BlogAboutItAll.com

Here is the Studio 40 Live Segment:
With Memorial Day around the corner, I wanted to share how to make these easy DIY Patriotic t-shirts with your kids.  You can also use them for 4th of July!

I made these shirts with my four boys last year, and I love the way they turned out. They wore them to our local Memorial Day Parade.

I usually buy Patriotic shirts for them to wear and you can find a ton of shirts for $5 or less at Old Navy, Walmart, Kohl's and many other places.  The benefit to making them, is the hand-print keepsake you will have after and the fun involved in crafting with your kids.  

What you need:
White T-shirts
Blue & Red Fabric Paint
Paint Sponge  (The sponge makes it easier to make straight lines)
Paper Bag or cardboard to place inside the shirt while you are painting.

Directions:
Place the paper bag or cardboard in the t-shirt.
Paint your child's hand with the blue paint.  Make sure the entire hand is well covered.  I used a paper plate and dipped my kids hand in the paint, I think painting the hand would be less messy.  

Press the hand in the upper left chest area of the shirt.  Press down hard to get a good hand print with fingers spread.
Finish by painting the red stripes. Using a sponge paint tool instead of a brush for easy straight lines.  Let dry.  Approximately 30 minutes to an hour.




My ooops, so I ended up tracing my little one's hand.



Remember the great thing about DIY, is it does not have to be perfect.  It will look great on, and the cuteness of the hand-print will help overlook any imperfections.  

My youngest was not even one and so it was a little difficult when it came to placing his hand on the shirt, then he ended up grabbing the shirt with his painted hand so I ended up washing the first attempt of his hand-print in the sink.  Then I traced his hand with pencil on the shirt and painted in his hand-print.  You could still see my oops when up close but it was still cute and festive.  

Thank you for reading if you've enjoyed the content you've read above please share with your friends.  www.BlogAboutItAll.com

Read my post on the importance of reflecting on Memorial Day

Here are some other links for fun DIY Patriotic Shirts:





DIY Patriotic T-shirts

With Memorial Day around the corner, I wanted to share how to make these easy DIY Patriotic t-shirts with your kids.  You can also use them for 4th of July!

I made these shirts with my four boys last year, and I love the way they turned out. They wore them to our local Memorial Day Parade.

I usually buy Patriotic shirts for them to wear and you can find a ton of shirts for $5 or less at Old Navy, Walmart, Kohl's and many other places.  The benefit to making them, is the hand-print keepsake you will have after and the fun involved in crafting with your kids.  

What you need:
White T-shirts
Blue & Red Fabric Paint
Paint Sponge  (The sponge makes it easier to make straight lines)
Paper Bag or cardboard to place inside the shirt while you are painting.

Directions:
Place the paper bag or cardboard in the t-shirt.
Paint your child's hand with the blue paint.  Make sure the entire hand is well covered.  I used a paper plate and dipped my kids hand in the paint, I think painting the hand would be less messy.  

Press the hand in the upper left chest area of the shirt.  Press down hard to get a good hand print with fingers spread.
Finish by painting the red stripes. Using a sponge paint tool instead of a brush for easy straight lines.  Let dry.  Approximately 30 minutes to an hour.




My ooops, so I ended up tracing my little one's hand.



Remember the great thing about DIY, is it does not have to be perfect.  It will look great on, and the cuteness of the hand-print will help overlook any imperfections.  

My youngest was not even one and so it was a little difficult when it came to placing his hand on the shirt, then he ended up grabbing the shirt with his painted hand so I ended up washing the first attempt of his hand-print in the sink.  Then I traced his hand with pencil on the shirt and painted in his hand-print.  You could still see my oops when up close but it was still cute and festive.  

Thank you for reading if you've enjoyed the content you've read above please share with your friends.  www.BlogAboutItAll.com

Read my post on the importance of reflecting on Memorial Day

Here are some other links for fun DIY Patriotic Shirts:





These Patriotic Jello Cups are perfect for your Memorial Day and 4th of July barbecues. They are really easy to make which is my kind of dessert. We have made these for quite a few years and my boys still ask for them every year.  They look so pretty and festive too.  

What you need:
Berry Blue Jello
Strawberry Jello
Cool Whip
Strawberries and Blueberries
Directions:
1. Follow the directions on the Jello box to prepare Jello.

2. Pour the jello mixture into glasses, halfway.  You can add a few pieces of fruit in the jello mixture if you like.  I would put strawberry pieces in the Strawberry Jello cups and blueberries in the Berry Blue Jello cups.  

3. Place the glasses in the refrigerator to set.

4. Before serving place a layer of cool whip and top with more fruit pieces.  

This is a great dessert to serve to a crowd, because you can make the jello cups a day before and then add the cool whip and fruit, or even let the kids do that part. My boys love making their own.

Thank you for reading if you've enjoyed the content you've read above please share with your friends.  www.BlogAboutItAll.com



Patriotic Jello Cups

These Patriotic Jello Cups are perfect for your Memorial Day and 4th of July barbecues. They are really easy to make which is my kind of dessert. We have made these for quite a few years and my boys still ask for them every year.  They look so pretty and festive too.  

What you need:
Berry Blue Jello
Strawberry Jello
Cool Whip
Strawberries and Blueberries
Directions:
1. Follow the directions on the Jello box to prepare Jello.

2. Pour the jello mixture into glasses, halfway.  You can add a few pieces of fruit in the jello mixture if you like.  I would put strawberry pieces in the Strawberry Jello cups and blueberries in the Berry Blue Jello cups.  

3. Place the glasses in the refrigerator to set.

4. Before serving place a layer of cool whip and top with more fruit pieces.  

This is a great dessert to serve to a crowd, because you can make the jello cups a day before and then add the cool whip and fruit, or even let the kids do that part. My boys love making their own.

Thank you for reading if you've enjoyed the content you've read above please share with your friends.  www.BlogAboutItAll.com



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