Second Largest Profitable Industry, and it's not what you think.

We axed regular cable TV, so when I visit someone I'm always intrigued to see what station there TV is left on. Tonight while visiting my grandparents, the 6PM news droned in the background. I'm not one to watch the news, but today something really caught my eye and ear.

Human trafficking is a growing issue in this country.  Being in SE Kentucky, you think... oh, that never happens in my town. Just last week, several people were indicted with trafficking charges in relation to a child UNDER the age of 12. I've heard several instances and stories about trafficking either through the internet or on TV, but now it is in your backyard people.

I wanted to learn a little more and find some statistics regarding the trafficking industry:

• Human Trafficking is a 32 billion dollar industry
• It is the 2nd largest source for profits,  of course behind drugs
• 100,000 to 300,000 number of sexually exploited children in the US
• The average age of a trafficked victim in the US is 14
• Girls as young as FIVE are known to be sold into child prostitution
• 27 MILLION people are enslaved today worldwide

This is heartbreaking, absolutely sickening. My heart aches for the victims.

 First, the only way I know to help is to pray and pray hard for the victims and for release from their modern day slavery.  Second, it is all about self and public awareness. I've committed to learn the red flags and warning signs of those who are victims of human trafficking. You never know who is hiding in plain sight and who you might be able to save.

In the US you can contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) toll free and 24/7 at 1-888-373-7888 to report any incidences or cases. 

Please visit the link provided for more information NHTRC

If in immediate danger, call 911! 

I ask that you say some prayers. I know I am. 

Think you're ready for a tattoo?

The topic of debate at my house recently has been the addition of tattoos. No, mom, don't worry. I am no getting any more. Joe has decided he wants another, and it has sparked somewhat of a debate.

Now, let me be clear. This is not a debate of whether he should or shouldn't. If he wants another... great. What this debate is about, what this tattoo should be. Joe has a knack for drawing and has developed some wicked designs. Most relate back to and honor his father in some way. The one I am not crazy about is the sugar skull. I found two sugar skulls that I said would look absolutely great on him, but for some reason, he doesn't think so.

 I am all for tattoos, and I have some of my own. Since Joe let it slip to my mother how many I really I have, I can now own up to all of them. Total of six, but let me share some things to think about before the ink hits the skin.

Disclaimer: I do not regret any of my tattoos. They are a part of me, and each have significance or a memory associated with them.

Things You Probably Should Think About:

1. It's there literally forever. (Unless you pay three times the money and endure three times the pain to have it removed.) Do you want to look at it forever? Everyday, every single day. Make sure it is exactly what you want and spelled correctly.

2. Is that song lyric, quote, passage still going to be cool or meaningful in ten years? If you don't immediately say yes, reconsider.

3. Are tattoos frowned up in your profession? Now, I know this is a heated topic, and as times change, the work place is becoming more cognizant and lenient towards tattoos as long as they are not offensive. (That is a whole different topic for another day.) All of mine can be concealed should I choose too. My feet are usually the ones people see when I have a dress or skirt and heels on.

4. How's your finances? Do NOT do this on the cheap. I am all about a deal, but when altering your body for LIFE, here's where you want to spend your money. If your artist is offers to do it for cheap, it's probably too good to be true.

5. Have you researched your artist? Again, you are altering your body FOREVER, Cleanliness and sterilization should be your top priorities. On top of that, you want someone who knows what they are doing. Review their portfolio. With today's technology, it's a lot easier. Artist's or tattoo shops have social media profiles with albums and albums of pictures.

Think about it people! Don't end up on Pinterest as a tattoo fail.

Lazy Girl Cinnamon Sticky Buns

Ahhhhh.... a three day weekend. Let's not forget this isn't all about an extra day off work, but about liberty, freedom, and the right to be an American. However, that is an entirely different post.

I woke up craving something good (as in tasty, not healthy) for breakfast. With at 40 or so minute commute, I usually grab a granola bar, fruit, or yogurt. What I really wanted though was something sweet, syrupy, sugary, and delicious, but without the work...

After seeing what was on hand, I decided to create something.

1. Can of Grands Homestyle Biscuits
2. 2 tablespoons of butter (melted)
3.  1/2 cup of maple syrup
4. 1/2 cup (or so) of syrup
5. 1/3 - 1/2 tablespoon of cinnamon
6. A couple tablespoons of brown sugar (I eyeballed it!)

And voila! We have Lazy Girl Cinnamon Sticky Buns.

Pre-Heat oven to 375
Mix the cinnamon and brown sugar together in a small cup/bowl
I used a loaf pan, but a bundt or small cake pan would work as well.
Spray the pan with non-stick cooking spray.
Pour half of the melted butter in the pan topped with half of the maple syrup.
Sprinkle the pan with half the brown sugar mixture.
Layer the biscuits and overlap the edges.
Pour remaining butter mixture and maple syrup on top of the biscuits.
Top it off with the remaining brown sugar mixture.
Throw those babies in the oven about 25-27 minutes.

Add a banana, cup of coffee, Parks and Rec, and I've had a delightful morning!