More Sad Star Trek News

Majel Barrett Rodenberry died today at 76 of leukemia. I was very sad to read about this. I have always loved her characterization of the formidable, but sexy Lwaxana Troi. I've found her voice as the computer comforting, even if she is ticking off an auto-destruct sequence. I did read that she is the computer voice on the new Star Trek movie scheduled for a May 2009 release. So it will be bittersweet to watch that movie when it comes out.

Farewell Mrs. Rodenberry, may you rest amoung the stars.

Lack of Progress

Okay, I'm swamped and I don't know when I'm going to get the newsletter done. I have 2 custom coats to get out by the end of the week; I need to put the strap on the new handbag; my son's birthday is Saturday. My daughter's birthday is Christmas. We're going to Northern Virginia to let the Grandma's see their babies for the weekend.

AAAAHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!

And I have to watch a 4 yo and 7 mo tomorrow and Friday all day. I have to teach on Thursday at the homeschool center from 10 until 2. So here's what I'm gonna do:

I 'm going to promise to have the newsletter and giveaway done by 12/24. I need to have the handbag finished and photographed for the newsletter.

Just a reminder that this month is my one year anniversary on Etsy. So go take advantage my Anniversary Sale - lots of great stuff in the Clearance section that I need to get rid of to make room for new stuff.

Also, I'm working on a new banner, let me know your thoughts:



Oh yeah, and I'm still working on this robe. 4 nights a week and one full weekend day for the past 3.5 months.



Okay, I gotta go and get back to work. No sleeping for me :(

Giveaways!

Right now, Blossoming Tree is hosting the last few days of their 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway. Go right now!

Also, later today, probably very late, I will be choosing this month's Giveaway Winner, go here to sign up!

First Sale on Artfire

Yay! I made my first sale on Artfire yesterday. My Asian Lantern bag has found a new home. I'm so excited :)

401K - Y?

Yeah, you know what I mean. I don't have a 401k and neither does my husband. Y? you ask? Because in my former non-homeschooling/crafting life, I was a Human Resources Generalist with a specialty in Benefits. That means I was the person who gave you all your options, enrolled you, played with your paycheck, gave you 100 forms to fill out, and if you wanted to change anything later I couldn't let you legally.

What I learned in Generalist school was that a 401k account was designed to let the Average Joe (the plumber - hahaha, I kill me!) invest in his future by putting aside small portions of his paycheck. That way Joe could possibly retire before he worked himself to death. HR people are always told to push this on the employee; it's for their benefit; hey, the company is even chipping in to boost your account, etc.

What they don't emphasize is the INVEST part, which means your money is subject to the ups and downs of Wall Street - as many of you who have such an account have found out. This is not a good thing if you aren't inclined to stock market analysis. You don't know how to "diversify" and nobody teaches you.

I also feel a person isn't adequately informed BEFORE they decide to open said account how difficult it is to get that money back. A lovely young lady in Kevin's office is finding out all about that right now. That's right, trying to get out while there's still money TO get out. Nope, can't do that - hardship, house downpayment, college tuition clause and all. OOOO! And don't forget the penalty fees. What?! You didn't know how hard it was going to be and the weeks it would take. You were told all of that before you signed on the dotted line. Oh, maybe you weren't; well you were supposed to read every word in the information packet you were given. What's that? You couldn't read the paragraphs at the bottom of each page typed in 4pt subscript. Hmmmm, oh well.

401K-Y - if you haven't, don't. Stuffing the money under your mattress or buried in a coffee can is a much better idea. We'll talk more about disclaimers soon.

Extra Large Man Bag

I just finished a custom size Man Bag! I think it came out really nice and you can view the photos here. It's a great commuter bag and is sized for the large screen laptop.

Anniversary Sale!

It's been one year since I started my Etsy store. To celebrate, I'm having an Anniversary Sale! Go to my Etsy store and read about the sale in the shop announcement. It's a great way to get your holiday shopping done :)

The Ups and Downs of Feedback

I put my heart and soul into my work. I'm constantly plagued by thoughts of doubt - "maybe I should have whipstitched that instead," "should I have used snaps instead of velcro?", "I measured the waist 5 times, it's gonna fit her". I know I should be confident about my work. I've been doing it for over 10 years and my daughter and I wear my creations constantly. I know they are well constructed and can stand the test of time. But I always wait with bated breath for that Feedback comment.

I suppose if I just mass produced things, it wouldn't matter so much to me. If I had a customer service department and maybe a hidden sweatshop in the back of the house, then lack of feedback wouldn't bother me. I'd just crack the whip and tell the slaves to keep on sewing!

A couple of days ago, I got feedback on a custom order for 4 work skirts that I did a few months ago. I was elated! She loved the work and was pleased :) Can you believe that at least once a week for the last 8-10 weeks I was openly wondering if she had found it acceptable or not? I was! I really really was. My kids were praying she would leave feedback so they wouldn't have to hear me mention it again - "Oh gosh! I haven't heard anything. Do you think she liked the skirts?" "Yes, Mom. If she didn't, she would have contacted you about a problem." I know, I know, but still! And not just that order, that was just an example. This happens with every order that goes out.

Maybe on Ebay it doesn't matter so much. You know everyone is a business - mass produced items. Things are defective, here's another. On Etsy though, everything is handmade. I have a modest business that I'm trying to grow and feedback is still very important to me. I leave feedback for all of my purchases so I don't cause someone else to pace their kitchen. Just a little reminder to show your favorite artisans that you love them with feedback. A little goes a long way and helps attract other customers.

Time to get shopping!

Check your newsletter for this month's specials; if you follow me on Twitter, be on the lookout Friday for a special.

Gift Certificates in a Spiraling Economy?

We all know it's tanking. But the holidays are upon us. I personally LOVE gift cards/certficates. Imagine my dismay when I saw the below note on a friend's Facebook page:

So I thought I would do a little research myself. After about an hour I came up with the below list:
Linens 'n Things, Stores Closing: All Stores
Disney Stores, Stores Closing: 98
Foot Locker, Stores Closing: 140
Wilson's Leather, Stores Closing: 160
Home Depot, Stores Closing: 15
Ann Taylor, Stores Closing: 117
PacSun 'Demo' Stores, Stores Closing: 154
Lonestar Steakhouse, Stores Closing: 27
Zales, Stores Closing: 105
Pier 1 Imports, Stores Closing: 25
Dell, Stores Closing: 140
Urban Interiors, Stores Closing: 2
84 Lumber, Stores Closing: 30
Sharper Image, Stores Closing: All Stores
Lillian Vernon, Stores Closing: filed for bankruptcy
Ethan Allan, Stores Closing: 12
Rite Aid, Stores Closing: 28
Sprint Nextel Corp., Stores Closing: 125
Movie Gallery, Stores Closing: 400
Saks, Saks Stores Closing: 1
Wickes Furniture, Wickes Furniture Stores Closing: 38
Circuit City, Stores Closing: filed Chapter 11
Eddie Bauer, Stores Closing: 27
Talbots, Stores Closing: 78
Charming Shoppes, Stores Closing: 150
Starbucks, Stores Closing: 100
Boston Market, Stores Closing: 50
Cost Plus World Market, Stores Closing: 18
Sigrid Olsen, Stores Closing: 54
Macy's, Stores Closing: 9
Kirkland's Home, Stores Closing: 130
CompUSA's, Stores Closing: 103
Rent-A-Center, Stores Closing: 280
Sofa Express, Stores Closing: 44
Levitz Furniture, Stores Closing: 76
Pep Boys, Stores Closing: 31
GAP, Stores Closing: 85
Bombay, Stores Closing: filed for bankruptcy
Disney, Stores Closing: 98
K B Toys Stores, Stores Closing: 356
Lowes, Stores Closing: 16

Just so you know, Callidora's has NO stores closing and will happily give a gift card/certificate. I'll also be happy to include gift wrap if you are sending to an alternate address.

My Interview!

Your SmallBiz Talk contacted me for an interview! Click here to read it.

There's a lot of great information on there for individual entrepreneurs and small businesses just starting up!

Your Favorite Thanksgiving Tradition

I'm curious about what others do for Thanksgiving. Leave me a comment with your favorite tradition - it doesn't have to be on Thanksgiving Day, maybe the day before or after. Maybe it's a certain side dish or an activity, whatever it is let me know. I think I have a little something to give away to a randomly chosen comment!

For those of you who receive this by email, please leave your comment on the blog itself rather than sending me a private email (unless of course, your story is long - then send me an email, but leave a small comment here on the blog).

Looking forward to hearing what you have to share :)

Giveaway Winner!

This month's Giveaway Winner is:

Shelley Krush

She is the winner of my Blue Flower/Polka Dot Full Size Apron!



If you didn't get your newsletter or want to sign up, please go to Callidora's to get registered for December's Newsletter!

City Crafts

The ladies over at City Crafts are very sweet! They are Indulge Me Sampler contributors.



I personally love the Autumn wreaths! But if you know me, that's not a surprise, is it? ;)

INDULGE ME Etsy Sampler Now Available

Here it is! The waiting is over :) The Indulge Me Sampler is now available - in it are things to warm your spirit and mind: Coffee, tea, chocolate, scented candle. Sit down in a quiet corner and sip on a cup of warm love and write your best friend a note of appreciation. Feel pretty with a hair pin and earrings; never lose your keys again. It's all here, little things to make life a little more pleasant.

Remember, there are only 10. Each item is handcrafted so what you see in the picture won't be the exact same item you get (unless you get that particular package!). Give yourself a gift, or lift the spirit of someone going through a rough time. Buy a package and split the items amoung several people as stocking stuffers.

Shipping is FREE within the US!

Dizz Demey Designs

Another talented person who creates with a variety of methods! Dizz Demey contributed to the Indulge Me Sampler:

Oh my!

Is this child deliciously GORGEOUS or what?!



Little Jillie is sporting her new earrings and a lovely hair bow by Celeste!

What's Her Name

Her name is Gayle and she is talented! She makes so many lovely little things in a variety of crafting. Her items are in the Indulge Me Sampler.

Halloween Pictures

Okay, I have to share some halloween pictures with you:
This is my sister's family. Aren't they cute - all themed up!


And Princess Jillie:


And here are my nutballs:

Made by Jackie!

These little items are so cute, I just couldn't pass them up! A Made by Jackie item is in the Pamper Me Sampler.

Thank You

America, for voting! For coming out in record numbers, for waiting in long lines, for being fed up enough to do something about it, and for believing that "Yes we can!" The road ahead is long, but now there is light at the end of it. Our new President-elect has called us to action. If you weren't involved in the campaigning, now is the time to get involved. If you were a McCain supporter, he has called you to action as well - to work together to make the change we all so desperately desire.

Our country was founded on revolution and the desire to create a flourishing environment for everyone, not just the nobles. We have become complacent and allowed "the nobles" to take over and force us into classes again. "We the people" means us - you and me, black/white, poor/middle class, single/married, whatever. We need to take it back, and now we have spoken and said that we do want to take it back. And now we have to follow through. Each of us in our own way can contribute to the cause of making this nation great again and bringing opportunity to everyone.

As for the Pro-Life vote, I just want to point out that a Republican vote for Pro-Life won't do anything to advance the cause. I am pro-life, and I mean that, not just anti-abortion which is what the Republican stance really is. Pro-life to me means respecting life from conception to natural death - that means not starting wars for oil. But I digress - I wanted to share with you a very enlightening interview with Judge Scalia on 60 Minutes that really made me see that voting Pro-Life as your only issue is simply a throw away vote.

"What is the connection between your Catholicism, your Jesuit education, and your judicial philosophy?" Stahl asks.

"It has nothing to do with how I decide cases," Scalia replies. "My job is to interpret the Constitution accurately. And indeed, there are anti-abortion people who think that the constitution requires a state to prohibit abortion. They say that the Equal Protection Clause requires that you treat a helpless human being that's still in the womb the way you treat other human beings. I think that's wrong. I think when the Constitution says that persons are entitled to equal protection of the laws, I think it clearly means walking-around persons,"

I find that interesting, that only walking-around persons are human. So death to the babies, the comatose, the mentally and physically challenged. To view the entire interview, click here. And I'd like to send you to one last article written about why Catholics can feel good about voting for Obama. Now granted, the vote is over, but for those of you who are "afraid" of what Obama years might mean to the socially conservative, this article may ease your pain a bit.

A new day has come and hope is on the way. For the first time in 7 years, I feel that 'yes we can' do it again. We can have the strength of the Reagan years and the prosperity of the Clinton years while building a clean environment and educating our children properly through the Obama years.

Thank you America for voting. Thank you Barack Obama for leading our people into a promising future. Thank you.

Stella Pearl

I am fascinated by fascinators! Okay, so I've been watching Clean House on the Style Network occassionally. Miss Niecy is sssoooooooo stylish with her flower for every outfit.

And then on this last season of Project Runway, Kenley Collins was wearing a flower or fascinator every time and she looked fabulous!

So, I decided to go on a flower/fascinator hunt and I found Stella Pearl! Not only did I buy enough of these flowers to fill my Pamper Me baskets, but I also bought 10 for myself. I wear them everyday now and I just love them!

Little Fox Rocks

Beautiful gemstone work. I love the chainmail necklace - oh hey, my birthday is next month!

Viva La Violette

Mmmmm, candles :)

Indulge Me Contributor:


Another brand new Etsian - show the love!

Zippityduda - What a Wonderful Day!

Look at all that crafty goodness!

Indulge Me Contributor:

Where does it go?

Yesterday, Max turned 15. It's hard to believe - where did all that time go? It doesn't seem like I just brought him home from the hospital, but surely he can't be older than 8! And of course, he's not your typical 15 year old. There's no backtalk or sneaking or bad grades or all that teenager stuff. He's responsible, inventive, hilarious, and brilliant. I know, he's my kid I can say that :) But really, he is!

He's very concerned about the upcoming election - he enjoys watching Keith Oberman and Rachel Maddow, and questioning anyone he comes across. He has "upgraded" one of our computers and it looks like Dr. Frankenstein was in the basement. He likes to zip around on his pocket bike (think circus clown) and hang out with his friends doing "parquor". (I think that's how you spell it. It's some new sport known as freerunning.) All the while, planning his future as a chemical physicist researcher. Oh yes, he is almost finished with Physics this semester and he loves it. Next semester is Chemistry 111, PreCalculus, and Psychology. He's planning to transfer to VCU in the Fall of 2009 - so we shall see.

Rayna's Creations

Unbelievable knitted beauty!



I'm a knitter myself and know how much love and time goes into the craft (one of the reasons I don't sell my knitted creations - for friends and family only!), and I must say her work is exquisite. She is just starting out, so give her some BIG Etsy love :)

Iguana Make It - Chocolates in Every Shape!

I truly believe in better living through chocolate! I must warn you though - I can't vouch for how long I will be able to keep my fingers away from these lovely samples!

Indulge Me Sampler Contributor:

PAMPER ME Etsy Sampler is Here!

You can check out the description and photos here!

There are only 10 available so place your order quickly - I don't think they'll last long! Stay tuned for the Indulge Me Sampler, it's coming soon :)

Crystal's Treasures - Treasure Yours!

Beautiful, beautiful work! I feel pretty just looking at it :)

Pamper Me Sampler Contributor:

Blossoming Tree - Natural Body Care

Another lovely Etsy person whom I'm happy to promote!

Pamper Me Sampler Contributor:

Stacey's Bath Stuff - Smell Good, Feel Great

Wonderful delights for the skin!

Indulge Me Sampler Contributor:

Handcrafted by Lamar - Greeting Cards

Truly amazing and one of most favorite people in the world! Previously featured here on my blog, but I can't say enough good stuff about him :)

Indulge Me Sampler Contributor:

Newsletter Woes

I'm trying to send out the Monthly Newsletter but I'm having issues with my host server. Ugh! As soon as it's fixed, hopefully tomorrow, I will be sending it out.

If you haven't signed up yet, do so right away so you can slip in before this month's Giveaway. There will be photos of the upcoming Sampler items, and a special discount for Newsletter subscribers.

I'm in an Etsy Storque Article!

I can hardly believe it! They didn't even let me know! I just stumbled on it. My little heart is fluttering :)

Go look!
(Can you see me jumping up and down and clapping my hands squealing in delight? I won't make a video, it's just better if you imagine it!)

Eldwenne - Fantasy Jewelry

Pamper Me Sampler Contributor:




Just DE-LISH!

Coming Soon: Handmade SamplerBoxes

I'm very excited about my new collaboration with several Etsy artists! Things have been in the works now for a little over a month to bring you 2 different Etsy Samplers. They will be available in my shop within a week or two. A couple of my new talented Etsy artist friends are still busily working putting the finishing touches on their products.

To get you excited about these artists and this great way to sample many different items at a low price, I will be featuring each of these artists every other day for the next 30 days. Of course, my packages will include Callidora items as well :)

Please check back frequently and meet these great people and get ready to order your Sampler pack!

Thinking about what to wear for the Holidays?

Think custom! Order your holiday dress now, it can take 4-6 weeks for a semi-formal or formal gown (two piece outfit). It'll be in the same price range as holiday wear from a major department store like Macy's, Kohl's, or Dillard's. The difference is - it will fit YOU! Not some 5'9" statuesque model in France, you - with all your beautiful bits.

If you contact me before November 1 for a custom outfit for the holidays, I will create a matching handbag for you FREE. Who doesn't want a gorgeous party dress (or pantsuit) with a matching bag?! Since I am only one person, I will only be able to take a certain number of orders for the holiday season, so get your order in early.

And remember, if you buy at Macy's, you'll have to pay all at once. If you buy from me, you can make a deposit (so I can get materials) and make payments during construction - it's a little easier on the budget. But if you like paying by credit card, I can take those too through Paypal.

Company parties
Holiday Open Houses
Winter Weddings
New Year's Eve
Going on a cruise

Competing in Today's Market

The Future of the Job Market

More Custom Work Completed!

I've added more photos to my Gallery, with descriptions of fabrics used. The skirts were made for a lovely lady in Kansas who works in a law office and wanted to update her winter wardrobe. Take a look and let me know what you think!

Buy It! Mom's Best Cereals

I just want to give a review and promote the cereals made by Mom's Best. If you haven't seen these cereals yet, look a little harder. They are usually near the organic or healthier cereals. They come in bright yellow boxes and are so incredibly priced!

Mom's Best is a family-owned (for four generations) business that makes cereals the way I would. No artificial preservative, colors, or flavors; no hydrogenated (do you know what THAT is?! blech) or palm oil; and NO high fructose corn syrup! There are a variety of flavors and my kids love them all.

Now, granted, my kids are food snobs and probably love it mostly because it's healthy, but they really do like the different flavors. The best part is that since they don't do any promoting or advertising, the savings are passed onto their customers. I bought a 24 oz box of their version of Frosted Mini-Wheats for $1.92 at Walmart. 44 grams of Whole Grain Goodness per serving for less than $2 a box.

Can't say enough good stuff about them. Check out their website at www.momsbestnaturals.com. If your local store doesn't carry it, ask for it. Since they don't advertise, spread the word for them. Do something good for the earth and your kids, buy Mom's Best! It's what I would make!

Jillie Bean!

DAWG GONE! ISN'T SHE PURTY!

Kisses from Auntie Terri XOXOXOXOXO

Treasury!

I'm in a Paisley Treasury! Go look!

I wish someone would buy the dang thing - it's had 796 views since I posted it in January.

Fall is Officially Here!

Need I say anymore?!

Pumpkins, cool crispy air, crunching leaves, breath hanging in the air, nippy nose, SWEATERS.....

Oh, I'm delirously happy :)

September Newsletter Is Out

If you didn't get yours, please sign up at www.callidoras.com. This month's winner was Lisa A-Q of Blossoming Tree! She won a Kate II handbag and a pair of earrings - retail value of $40.

The Monthly Newsletter lets you know about what's on the horizon for Callidora's, specials, and giveaways. Subscribing once enters you in each monthly drawing.

Re-creations!

My first re-creation dress is finished and on it's way to her happy owner! You can read all about the Zuul dress and see completed photos in the Gallery.

My next re-creation I'll be starting in about a week. I will be sure post photos when it's done.

My current project is a wholesale order for 8 Korean Bowing Robes for a Meditation Center in Seattle! My serger is smokin' :)

Travelling Daphne!

Well, my Daphne bag is pretty popular and she is travelling right out of my craft room! I have about 3 of the Daphne I's left and 6 Daphne II's. I'm so glad to have gotten a good response on these bags :) So if you were thinking about getting one - get your order in. When Daphne is gone, she's gone for good!

How does custom clothing work?

Here's a little info on my process, so if you're considering custom made clothes, you'll know what you're in for :)

1. What's the occasion? Is it for work? For lounging around? Going out with the girls or your honey? Semi-formal or formal?
This will help decide what fabrics and what style.

2. After determing use, climate, fabric care (do want to stay away from dry cleaning?), I start showing fabrics in your choice. Prints? Florals? Stripes? Solids? Coordinating fabrics?
I send you photos online if you're not local and will direct you if you see something you like that I haven't shown. You have a vintage fabric in mind that's sitting in Aunt Suzie's attic - we can probably work with that.

3. Once your fabric choice has been made, design choices are discussed. Do you want the corporate look? A vintage inspired 1950s remake? A costume? Sleeves? Collars? Zippers? Elastic? Buttons? Pleats?
That and your basic measurements will help me determine yardage and material cost. A final price is agreed upon and after receiving your payment, I order the materials. I try to use other Etsy sellers whenever possible - I want to support the little people!

4. While waiting for your fabric, I instruct you on how to take up to 30 measurements (for a full outfit/dress) and I begin drafting your pattern to fit your bits :)

5. Once your fabric arrives, I get to work! Cutting, serging, sewing, pinning, tucking, re-measuring, etc.

6. Then your masterpiece is finished, I notify you and you send your final payment. Your custom clothing gets sent to you Priority Mail and you're wearing your super-comfy clothes in 2-3 days!

Have you ever spent the whole day in your church clothes? Or the evening in your office clothes? Probably not, because you can't wait to take them off when you get home! Not the case when it's custom made for your body - it's like wearing air. No tugging or pulling to keep things in the right spot, not too tight in one spot to accommodate fit in another. Oh, it's a whole different beautiful world! And your clothes feel better, it's so much easier to keep a happy face on - sounds crazy but it's true :)

Your Opinion Please

Please go to my blog and respond to this post in the Comments. Heh heh there might something in it for you! I need as many responses from individuals as possible.

A. Would you buy a sampler package of handcrafted items from a variety of artists?

B. If so, would you want to know what's in the package or do you prefer the element of surprise?

C. If the package contained 7-10 handcrafted items, all usuable items, not knick knacks; what would expect to pay for the package?

Thanks for responding!

Custom Work

I have been busy with custom work lately - it's wonderful! But I don't think I'm going to be able to add to my Fall Collection for a bit :( I really really want to, but I need to sleep!

I'm very excited about the projects I'm working on and some of my upcoming ones. I'm finishing up a Ghostbusters costume (the dress worn by Sigourney Weaver as Zuul in the first movie). That will probably go out this week. Next I'm working on a Dia de los Muertos dress (Day of the Dead) with some gorgeous sugar skulls fabric by Alexander Henry. Followed by a recreation of a dress that Charlotte/Chuck wears on Pushing Daisies. And 4 skirts for a lovely lady in Kansas who wants to snazz up her office wardrobe for the winter!

That will take me through September, but I'm definitely looking for more projects going through the holidays. So, if you know you're going to a Holiday party or out dancing for New Year's. I'd be happy to make you a dress that flatters and fits perfectly! Or if you just want to add to your wardrobe and are sick of clothes that don't fit all your bits properly, I'd be glad to help.

Most of my custom work is in the same price range as what you would pay at Kohl's, Dillard's, or Macy's - but it fits YOU! It takes me between 2-3 weeks to complete a project from the time it's ordered. Any item over $50 is paid for in increments - half up front to buy the materials, and the rest upon completion. If your budget is tight, we can work out layaway payments and find quality materials in your price range.

Think about it - everyone used to have custom clothes a hundred years ago! Sears changed all that with their catalog. Get back to basics and get clothes that fit you - you won't believe how comfortable you feel :)

Cute Etsy Commercial

I don't think it ever aired, but it's sooooo cute. It makes me wanna shop! Oh wait, I already did today :)

Gallery Photos

I have added a Gallery page to my shop's website where I am posting pictures of my custom work. I have several custom orders that I am working on currently, so probably by the end of September I will have lots more photos up :)

But here I want to share a picture of Rebecca from SoapDeli wearing one of my headbands. Isn't she lovely!

Smidge's September Giveaway

Smidge has started their September Giveaway! One of my headbands is on there. There are many other fabulous handcrafted items included in the giveaway. Go check it out and I hope you win!

August Giveaway

I sent out the info on August's Giveaway to my Newsletter subscribers yesterday. If you didn't get yours, please click here. September's Giveaway drawing will be late next week (if I'm not hammered by Hanna or Ike!) Sign up now to be included in the drawing.

Trunk Show at Etsy Labs!

Get a jump on your holiday shopping with the Fall into Holiday Cheer Trunk Show the wonderfully talented Etsymom Street Team Members are hosting this Thursday, Sept. 4th at 7 pm in the Etsy Virtual Labs. Come find out what inspires the beautiful handcrafted artistry of this dedicated group of moms in business. Each Etsymom participant will display images of their work, share about their creative process and answer questions. Don't miss this first-time event for Etsymoms and an opportunity to buy some incredible handmade goods!

Smidge Giveaway!

Don't forget to get your entry in for this month's Smidge Giveaway! I've got a headband in there and there's so many other cool things :) I wish I could win!

My Showstopper: Your Thoughts and Suggestions Please

So all these feelings of Fall are naturally steering me towards Sugar Plum Fairy Dances and Winter Balls and such. I've telling myself for about 6 months that I really need to make a Showstopper. You know the one item in your shop that makes people stop and stare and say "Wow! I would LOVE to have that!" And it would showcase my skills and cost a very pretty penny (to make and retail). I wouldn't expect it to sell immediately or to even make dozens of them. I just want to make one that makes people take notice of my work.

So my questions to you are:

1. Should it be a dress?
2. If so, a formal dress?
3. Should I make it in my size? Or some generic average size?
4. If not a dress, then what show stopping ideas do you have?
5. What would make you stand up and say, "Wow! She's a good seamstress! I want to have something made for me."

Feels like Fall!

If you know me, you know that Fall is my absolute FAVORITE season! I can't believe how mild our weather has been for August! It actually is feeling like Fall - I dare not get my hopes up, but it's been two weeks. Could it be true?

Last year, Fall came so late. The leaves didn't turn until November. Summer seemed to drag on forever and that song "call me when September ends" was a mantra that didn't work.

How delightful it would be to have a vibrant, long lasting Fall! Tea time is almost back and temperatures are dipping. Public school starts next week - go away little people and leave me and my kids to our bliss! It's the most wonderful time of the year :)

Fall Semester

Max got through his summer classes with a 4.0! We are very proud especially since English isn't his favorite subject. This semester he is taking Physics and Algebra 2 at John Tyler, and he is contemplating his future - Research Chemist or Particle Physicist. Oh my!

Another...

Here is the Pleated Skirt:

Skirts!

I've been working on skirts! In my shop, you'll only see one but it's a template. I can make it out of any of the fabrics I have or one you like. Right now, I just have the elastic waist A-line.



I'm finishing up a Plus Size floral pleated skirt today, which I'll be putting in the shop later. If the day doesn't get away from me, I'll also be putting up a wrap skirt.

Rent a textbook, plant a tree!

I'm running around trying to find cheap textbooks for college, and Kevin came across the Chegg.com website. Book rental for the semester! Yay! So we rented a book for Max for the fall and here is the email we received:

Hello Max,

In case you didn't know, you are helping plant 1 tree(s) since you ordered 1 book(s) from Chegg.com!

Share with your friends on Facebook that you planted 1 tree(s).



Is that cool or what! Go ahead - feel good about helping the planet.

Every year, more than 20 million trees are cut to produce books. It gets worse. Only 50% of the tree is used in creating paper for your textbooks. Of course, we need books, so at a minimum, we need to plant what we take out - a little thank you to Mother Nature.

Even though publishers can produce multiple books with one tree, we will plant a tree for every rental since we have a lot of catching up to do. We are partnering with organizations in the US and across the world to have trees planted.

We make every attempt to source used books or books made from recycled paper for your rental to save the environment, while taking care they are in good condition for your use.

So, how cool is that?! Tree planting, recycling, learning, and saving the planet all at once. Yay Chegg! Go now, get your books, plant trees :)

Star Trek: The Experiment

I don't think I'm giving anything away here by saying that while on the Klingon Encounter Mission, we are transported from one room onto the Enterprise. Yes, beam me up Scotty, we are beamed. We start off in a square gray room with video monitors and doors in front of us; the light go out, the air whooshes, and little flickers of light surround us for no more than 3 seconds, then the lights are on and we are standing on a transporter pad. Yes, the circular transporter pad, lighted floor, no monitors, no doors - just some Starfleet Lieutenant telling us we've been beamed through a temporal rift into the future. This room is not the same color, size, or anything as the one we were in less than 3 seconds before. How did they do it?!

Since I couldn't afford the Behind the Scenes Tour, Max and I were trying desperately to work this question out on our own. We rode 4 times on Day 3 just to see if we could figure it out. My first clue to the Experiment was the small print for the Behind the Scenes Tour that said you would have to sign a Confidentiality Agreement. My second clue was realizing that the first thing that happens to you as you pass through the doors for the Borg Invasion ride is a bioscan. Here is my theory:

11 years ago after many trials and errors, the government finally discovered transporter technology. We all know that Star Trek has been an inspiration for years and many things we have today can attributed to the franchise. (Let's face it - that flip phone? that's Kirk's communicator!) Once they discovered the technology and safely tested it on inorganic objects, it was time to test it on live animals and humans. This must have worked on the small scale, but I think maybe there were some issues with how far people could be transported. Like any government agency, they are only happy when something has been tested for 20 years on thousands of people. But the urgency was so great, "we have it, we need to perfect it, it has to be done now"; and so Star Trek the Experience was born.

How many people would volunteer to be dismantled at the molecular level if we aren't sure if we've got this totally right? A few, but not enough to get those conclusive 20 year results. What better way to have the volunteers coming in droves if we make it an amusement ride! When the Experience opened 10 years ago, it was only the Klingon Encounter - hundreds of thousands of people, fans, paying to be materialized elsewhere. Then once it was evident that yes these people can be transported, it was important to know if there were any cumulative effects - hence the Borg Invasion with its entry bioscan was born!

Let's face it, the Klingon mission is better, everyone who's been on it knows it. Since the admission, became an unlimited day pass, what do these hundreds of thousands of people do? Get transported multiple times and then get scanned once or twice depending on how slow that Klingon line is. So, they get a good luck at us on the cellular level after we've raced to be transported a few times. And now, hopefully and conclusively, they have all the evidence they need to prove that they have perfected materialization with no long term or cumulative effects. And so, they are closing down the Experiment and we should see transporter booths being erected all over the planet within 3-5 years.

Imagine: dinner in London, dessert in Sao Paolo! Beam me up again :)







And no, you can't smile when standing next to a Klingon or an Andorian. They'll think you are up to something and kill you where you stand. There are no questions before or after - and if you were a good Trekkie, you would know that!

Featured Artist: AnnieRexic!

Proud Mama talking here! You must get your Annie Rexic tee shirt RIGHT NOW! Go to Annie Rexic's shop on Etsy and order Miranda's art work tee shirt. At the very least, take a look around the shop and click on one of the tee shirt listings to see a very cool shout out to Miranda's work. Support the little artists!

Vacation: the Vegas part!

Soooo, merrily we went back across the Mohave desert, stopped at Jack in the Box (mandatory on any Southwest trip!), and got to Vegas at about 2 pm. The rest of that day we spent at the Star Trek Experience. We stopped a Borg Invasion and prevailed in our Klingon Encounter; we ate Sisko's Ribs at Quark's and revelled in Nog's Chocolate Cake for dessert. It was wonderful! Day 2, we went to the Stratosphere, went up the tower (1000+ ft in the air!) where Max rode their rooftop thrill rides while I sat serenely in the observation lounge taking pictures of the whole city. We then ate lunch at Top of the World revolving restaurant - which was mediocre at absolute best, but I suppose I was paying for the view. Then we stopped at Caesar's Palace for some shopping and to watch the Atlantis animatronics show - very cool. If I can ever figure out how to upload a video without overloading the computer, I'll do it. Then we went to the pool party at the Tropicana where we were staying and had dinner at Wolfgang Puck's Grill. Now there is true food talent.







Tomorrow Day 3 and the Conspiracy Theory!

Emily Rose has my aprons!

Emily Rose Jewellery has my aprons in their online shop! They are come monogrammed and are available in mother/daughter sets. Check it out and get a set for yourself!

Vacation, part 3

Later on Friday, we went to the hospital to visit the new baby. Here are some pictures of our happy family:






As you can probably tell, we hate babies :) Anyway, Saturday was spent cleaning up, cooking and freezing lots of dinners, and getting ready for the next part of our vacation. Sunday after church, we headed back to Vegas for our Star Trek Mission.

Daphne is on the go!

Daphne is one of my new Fall Collection lines. Daphne I is a large duffel bag that is big enough to hold everything you need for a 4 or 5 day getaway, but still qualifies as carry-on luggage. Daphne II looks exactly like the first, except it's smaller and can be used either as a handbag or as a complement to the travel bag. Use it for shoes, or travel activities (long boring flight?). Also available is the Daphne Cosmetic Bag that is generous enough for you to take ALL your favorite colors! You won't be limited to what can fit into one or two compacts. Besides, who wants to wear the same shades 5 days in a row?!

They are handcrafted with a lovely, durable olive green/tan/brown paisly cotton twill with tan linen sides and brown cotton straps. Each bag is fully lined in chocolate brown cotton and they are machine washable! Each one has a zipper closure. They can be purchased separately or together as a collection.

Daphne I $60
Daphne II $25
Cosmetic Bag $15
Daphne Collection $95

Free shipping in the US. This is a limited edition line. When Daphne has gone, she will be gone forever. Available on Etsy and Callidora's. If you don't see a listing for one of them, contact me. Someone has most likely purchased it and I haven't gotten a new listing up yet.

Vacation, part 2

After Mt. Baldy, we arrived at my sister Lori's house. She was busting at the seams, ready to give birth and as you know, did have little Jillie later that night.


Friday morning, while Lori and Brandon were recuperating at the hospital, Max and I had the pleasure of taking my nephews Bryson and Sebastian to their weekly Mommy & Me class. Wow! What an experience! 15 toddlers and mommies doing activities and singing songs for 2 hours. Thank goodness I had Max and my oldest nephew Gavin there to help. Look at these shiny, happy faces!

Vacation is over :(

So sad! I had a great time! Max and I landed in Las Vegas on Wednesday night - very late. We rented a car and a GPS we'll call Maggie. Maggie is a ditz - not nearly as competent as Australian Karen or British Daniel.

Anyway, we crawled into our hotel room, passed out, woke up early, ate breakfast buffet as only Las Vegas can do it, then jumped in the car and relied on Maggie to get us across the Mohave Desert as quickly as possible. We admired the heat, bright sun, and lack of vegetation - so reminiscent of our Arizona days; it's a dry heat.

3.5 hours later, we arrived at Mt. Baldy - one of Max's destinations. Of course we had experiments to conduct: air pressure, altitude, vegetation lines of demarcation, air drag, etc. I, personally, was testing my "winding mountainous road" reflexes; that was interesting. The view from Mt. Baldy was gorgeous of course (except for the brown LA fog hanging over their city at midday).






More coming.....