Groovy Inclinations

Groovy Inclinations ~ Rugs

2012-01-30T10:46:00.002-07:00

Purposed Green Coffee Bean Sack Rug/Wall Art - Groovy Inclinations

2012-01-30T10:43:00.002-07:00

Re-Purposed Green Coffee Bean Sack Rug/Wall Art - Groovy Inclinations

~Cassiopeias Closet ~

2012-01-15T13:30:00.000-07:00

Home

Local Creators of Vancouver, Wa...Cassiopeias Closet is seeking items made from Natural Fibers~ Take a look!

Let's go slimming! Debuting with a better-than-ever fit, these are the SPANX swimsuits you've been waiting for! Take SPANX Swim for a test dive today!

2012-01-15T11:24:00.000-07:00

Something you may not have known and I have mentioned this a time or two...however. I once was a wear tester for Spanx! Really! Check them out...quality products!!!

Let's go slimming! Debuting with a better-than-ever fit, these are the SPANX swimsuits you've been waiting for! Take SPANX Swim for a test dive today!

The Greedy Bird Linocut with HandColoring by sprouthead on Etsy

2012-01-15T11:00:00.003-07:00

One of my favorite artist's creations on Etsy....she always shares something inspirational. today I am inspired by her technique. Please visit!

Twenty People Will Earn 25.00

2012-01-12T19:57:00.001-07:00

Twenty People Will Earn 25.00 in Groovy Inclinations Store Credit!

What? Crazy talk. That's what this is!

How do I earn 25.00 in store credit?

Easy:

1) Tweet something splendid about Groovy Inclinations.

2) Blab on Facebook or other networksite, or yap on a blog, etc: something tasty or engaging regarding Groovy Inclinations

3) Create an account on this website/register

4) Recommend or add to pinterest

5) Do at least two of these requests then...

6) Tell me about it! Be specific and give me the links if possible. Email: mwilson@blackfoot.net

Do at least two of these things and be one of the first 20 people and you will earn store credit (eventually, you will have to create an account to have actual credit)

...and more items are being added all of the time!

Oooh Squiggles by Siggles!!

2012-01-12T19:40:00.005-07:00

Signe is eleven and saving to buy a horse with her art sales! Help her out! :) How can you resist?

50 Free Or Cheap Advertising Ideas For Offline and Online Marketing

2012-01-07T12:28:00.000-07:00

50 Free Or Cheap Advertising Ideas For Offline and Online Marketing

Groovy Inclinations

2012-01-07T11:30:00.000-07:00

I am in the process of opening a new online store! Woo Hoo!! Groovy Inclinations Registration with my store will earn you a free greeting card sent to your home...good to the first one hundred~ so hurry!

Photo Contest~

2011-08-12T12:47:00.001-06:00

This is the shot I wanted to use in the AE Photo Contest: http://on.ae.com/qbWPl6
Mindy Wilson (28)

....If you would...go and please vote here: http://on.ae.com/qbWPl6 by the 16th of August, 2011 !

Deals & Coupons - Earn Cash Back When You Shop.

2010-09-14T05:54:00.000-06:00

This is a great deal on Muscle Milk~ 8% cash back too!! Use Big Crumbs when you shop online for items you'd already be shopping for anyhow!!

Deals & Coupons - Earn Cash Back When You Shop.

i like to like things

2010-08-29T13:43:00.001-06:00

I love Lori Koop's newsletter~ i like to like things

What a Pair Circles and Squiggles Luminary Table Lamp by Mwilson

2010-08-12T21:52:00.002-06:00

What a Pair Circles and Squiggles Luminary Table Lamp by Mwilson

What a Pair Circles and Squiggles Luminary Table Lamp Set

What a pair!

This set would accent perfectly in a mod atmosphere, a tween room or college dorm life.

The style of this lamp shade is created from my own illustrations and artwork. It's modern, great for minimalist settings, all young at heart. Blues, black, white, green are the main colors in this design. Fun and ultimately funky call it to a tee!
The little guy is 7.5" tall and 5" in diameter
The larger lamp is 12" tall and 6" in diameter

Cords are over 7' long each
Safety Suggestions (we all have to have them :)
Light bulb: 25 watt.
Do not leave in care of little ones.
Do not leave unattended.

The last image is actually one continuous image that is printed and each shade is cut from this one film.

Luminescent Turn Up The Heat Lamp by Mwilson on Etsy

2010-08-12T19:49:00.002-06:00

Luminescent Turn Up The Heat Lamp by Mwilson on Etsy

Son C. Wilson Just taught himself this Nickelback song.

2010-08-11T20:50:00.002-06:00

Sale Fifteen Dollars OFFJuicy Moot Supasized Print by Mwilson

2010-08-11T19:03:00.000-06:00

Sale Fifteen Dollars OFFJuicy Moot Supasized Print by Mwilson
http://www.etsy.com/listing/21531760/sale-marked-2000-offa-molting
http://www.etsy.com/listing/30098600/marked-2000-off-sale-ready-to-ship-200
http://www.etsy.com/listing/38688360/sale-price-as-marked-evaros-luminescent
http://www.etsy.com/listing/51162586/get-all-three-birdie-prints-for-3000
http://www.etsy.com/listing/53293674/sale-two-85-by-11-prints-for-2700
http://www.etsy.com/listing/6814809/sale-marked-ten-dollars-off-funky-sheep
http://www.etsy.com/listing/16401951/sale-twenty-dollars-off-two-hundred
http://www.etsy.com/listing/20967337/large-print-on-sale-marked-2000-off
http://www.etsy.com/listing/23821527/sale-fifteen-dollars-off-juicy-moot
http://www.etsy.com/listing/26625315/sale-morphee-large-16-x-16-canvas-print
http://www.etsy.com/listing/53340911/sale-as-marked-use-distression-aged

Windeers on Canvas by Mwilson on Etsy

2010-08-08T12:46:00.002-06:00

I'm thinking this will be one of my next shade designs. The colors are pleasing enough to pal well with so many interiors. Any ideas, send'em my way. I would love to hear my readers thoughts!

Windeers on Canvas by Mwilson on Etsy

Interview with Susan Mulcaire Author of The Middle School Student's Guide to Ruling the World!

2010-08-07T13:15:00.004-06:00

Not long ago I had the pleasure of visiting with Susan Mulcaire, the author of The Middle School Student's Guide to Ruling the World! I admire the work Susan has done and the action she took to improve her son's ability to succeed. Great work Susan!!

Can you give my readers a synopsis of your book?

The Middle School Student's Guide to Ruling the World! is a work habits, time management and organizational skills workbook for students in grades 6-8. Text, comics and graphics tell the stories of five "chronically disorganized" middle school students who encounter humorous, but typical situations as a result of their poor organizational skills. The reader follows along with the characters, to learn practical skills and strategies for being an organized middle school student. Some of the skills addressed are how to organize your binder, use a planner, manage a group project, use a rubric, remember your stuff every day, plan a long term project, etc.

What prompted the writing of your book, or when was the moment you said to yourself" "I don't care, I'm going to do it"

My son wasn't doing very well in 6th grade. There was no issue with his ability to learn. He was a GATE student. But, he was forgetting his homework, losing worksheets, not following directions, doing the wrong homework page, etc. I was tired of nagging him about it. One day, in the middle of the usual nag session, the look on his face told me that he wasn't being lazy or irresponsible—he just had no idea how to get organized. It occurred to me that if he didn't learn how to organize now, he could possibly underachieve for the rest of his academic life. I began looking for resources to help him. I searched far and wide, but found no age appropriate resource that dealt strictly with work habits, time management and organizational skills. At that time, I was still practicing law, and it turned out that practicing law and going to middle school are remarkably similar pursuits. So, I adapted my legal case management principles to his sixth grade work load and it worked!

How is being being a middle school student like being a lawyer?

Well, in both occupations there's a lot of information and paperwork to manage. Like attorneys, students have due dates, deadlines and directions which must be followed—to the letter. Binders must be organized a certain way, both need a reliable calendaring system, and project/case planning skills. A lawyer's work is reviewed a judge. A middle student also faces a judge: The teacher!

Did you use a traditional publisher?

Initially I sent out some inquiries, but I think the concept of using comics and middle school characters to teach organizational skills was a stretch for a traditional publisher. I received some interest, but after weighing the costs and benefits of working with a traditional publisher, I knew I'd be happier self publishing.

Who was your best support during the project?

My family. There are comics and dialogue in the book, so my three kids and their friends were always coming in and reading what I wrote that day and acting out the comics. They freely offered their opinions, of course, and would "translate" the dialogue for me so it sounded more authentic for middle school.

Has this project been fuel for other projects?

Yes. I created an Instructor's Guide with sixteen lesson plans and activities for teaching organizational skills, so the program has evolved into a full curriculum. My kids, their friends and I, recorded supplemental podcasts that bring the characters to life. I'm currently working on a sequel to The Middle School Student's Guide to Ruling the World! for learning basic study skills. I also now teach the course in the Irvine Public School's ACE program.

What has been the most rewarding part of the creation process?

It's more often a lack of organizational skills that trip up a middle school student, than a lack of traditional study skills, such as note taking and test preparation. Two major reports recently confirmed that failure at the middle level can have lasting and some times irreversible consequences, and that organizational skills are essential for academic success. It's rewarding to have written a curriculum that can help address some of these issues. The curriculum has sold all over the U.S. and even overseas. The books were recently added to the recommended book list for the Dallas Independent School District, and that acknowledgment was rewarding.

What has been the most rewarding part of the promotion process?

Meeting all sorts of interesting people! I speak at conferences, PTAs and attend exhibits. I meet teachers, parents, administrators, and after school directors. They are fun to talk to and compare notes.

Was there anything you wish you'd known about becoming an author prior to beginning the book?

That marketing is a huge part of being an author. You can always be doing something to market your product. I understand that even if an author publishes with a traditional publisher, they still have to do most of their own marketing and publicity. The education market is tough in this economy. For a small publisher, breaking into the education market is difficult because it is dominated by the big publishers. Fortunately, no other publisher has a similar product.

Was this something you could work on daily? What is your day job?

Running my company, Tween Publishing, is now a full time job. The education market is somewhat seasonal. It is busiest in the spring and summer, so I hire part time employees to help in the busy months. I also have those three kids! My oldest, the one that inspired the book, is off to college next year.

Have there been surprises?

Yes. I did not expect the program to evolve into a curriculum. I originally thought of it as kind of a handbook for disorganized tweens.

What came easy to you?

Not much, but If I had to pick one thing I would say -writing. Between the kids and other obligations, I didn't have big blocks of time to sit down and write. So I'd think and plan, and play with ideas in my head before I sat down to write anything. Usually sometime around 4 a.m. - in that twilight state between being asleep and awake, I could think about the topic I was tackling and formulate an outline. By the time I got the kids off to school and found some time to write, much of it was already in my head.

Two 8.5 x 11 prints for 27.00!

2010-08-07T09:29:00.003-06:00

It's a sale!!

For a limited time, I have marked some items down, there are some things that need to leave the nest!

My 8.5 x 11 prints are on Sale two for 27.00. This is simple, make your purchase and I'll adjust your invoice and you pay from that or I'll refund you! This is a savings of 8.00! What a deal! The Poplar print is not included in this deal.

And, I have three little birds that are sold at 12.50 each if you purchase two, they are currently sold at 20.00 for the pair and 30.00 for all three!! Woo hoo, who doesn't like a sale!

Get all three Birdie prints for Big Savings

2010-08-07T09:11:00.005-06:00

Get all three Birdie prints for 3000 Girl Next DoorBlue by Mwilson
This listing is for all my fat bubbly birdies in a set. You'll get three images for 30.00 or two for 20.00. This is a limited time sale because I need to reduce my inventory.

The richness of the colors is best viewed in person. This was a hand drawn pen illustration, colored with the aid of my graphic program. It is printed on a special transparent paper that lends a luminous quality to this Girl Next Door. Her deep rosy colors would compliment many color schemes in a home or office.

The print is approximately 7 x 8 printed on 8.5 x 11 paper. When framing it would be best if it was mounted on white board or paper to really give the image punch.

This would make a fine gift of whimsy.

Marked 20.00 off SALE Ready to ship 200 Window Lamp by Mwilson

2010-08-07T07:52:00.003-06:00

Yep, even this beautiful shade is Marked twenty dollars off it's original price, it is beautiful!

Ready to ship! A large Duratrans shade which is 18" in diameter and 12" tall. This listing is for the shade only. The repeated window is from my print Two Hundred: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16401951 The lamps shade style would work great in any woodland setting, for men, anyone desiring retro, camp/lodge, retro cabin styles and antique or shabby chic with a twist. The trim on this shade is a deep brown 1.5" wide and velvet. Each additional shade's trim will vary from shade to shade but promises to coordinate beautifully.

I have been working on large drum shades for quite sometime. I'm thrilled to offer this one and would love suggestions for other designs.

The colors are amazing...deep browns, an mustard ribbon of color above and below the windows, soft aquas and greens, pale yellow. The last image shows the digital file.

Marked 2000 off SALE Ready to ship 200 Window Lamp by Mwilson

Sale Morphee Large 16 x 16 Canvas Print by Mwilson on Etsy

2010-08-06T22:04:00.002-06:00

This was a huge hit at a recent show I had and it was difficult to keep in stock! Currently marked twenty dollars off, I must get rid of some of my inventory. Sale Morphee Large 16 x 16 Canvas Print by Mwilson on Etsy

Sale Twenty Dollars OFF Two Hundred Large Sized Print by Mwilson

2010-08-06T21:53:00.002-06:00

What a great image and an even better sale! Check it out now! Sale Twenty Dollars OFF Two Hundred Large Sized Print by Mwilson

Every Day Life With Five Daughters

2010-08-04T10:53:00.001-06:00

My Beef's Bloggie, OMGEE...what a hoot!

Interview the Yvonne N. Pierre author of The Day My Soul Cried

2010-08-04T09:10:00.006-06:00

SYNOPSIS
Yvonne Pierre’s journey from the depths of despair to an awakening of soul and spirit -has been a long and difficult one.
From sexual abuse, excessive drinking, failing in school, having a child while still a teenager, unable to get a job, having a second child with Down syndrome, gaining excessive weight and allowing herself to no longer care about how she looked – the painful pattern of all types of abuse seemed endless. Until one day, when Yvonne’s soul cried. She began to see that how she perceived her life and the attitudes she had, were crippling her as much as all her bad habits and the ugly things that happened to her. The realization that through forgiveness of others and most importantly, herself, would prove to be her path to new confidence, new attitude, a joy and love of life and God, and a profound hope that by sharing her story, others may find the courage and strength to do what Yvonne has done.
Website: http://www.zyonair.com/ypierre

What prompted the writing of your book, or when was the moment you said to yourself” “I don’t care, I’m going to do it”
Mindy, there were so many times when I said this is the year. Like every New Year’s Eve when midnight strikes we say, “This is the year. I’m going to accomplish my dreams and goals this year.” I think every year, that was my resolution to go after my dreams. This year, I said, I’m not going to say it, I’m just going to do it. I needed to overcome my fears. What I realized is that the fear didn’t completely leave; I had to learn how to press forward in spite of the being afraid. This actually is where the idea for “The Day My Soul Cried” came from – figuring out why I was standing in my own way.

Did you use a traditional publisher?
Initially, I wanted to go with a traditional publisher. When I was trying to get the self-help book, Phoqus published, I went to a publisher and because I was a “no name” writer, he wanted me to remove some elements from the book and add elements he thought was a better idea. By the time he finished telling me what to take out and add it was his vision, not mine. So, I politely turned down the deal. One of the elements he wanted me to take out the book was me. He said no one would be interested in my story. I decided to study the industry and start my own independent publishing, but I placed it on hold to focus on spreading positive special needs awareness. Now, I’m pulling it all together.

Who was your best support during the project?
In addition to God, my support system has been Steffan (my significant other) and our sons – Zyair 17 and Zyon 8.

Has this project been fuel for other projects?
I think so. While developing this project, I’ve learned so much mostly about myself. Prior to doing this project and during the process of developing this project I’ve accomplished things that I had no idea that I could. Ironically, writing was one of them. In the book, I talk more about it, but one of my greatest challenges in school was reading and writing. I failed the basic entry exam for community college. Writing a book was something I NEVER thought I’d do. I’m still shocked. But to answer the question, yes. This project has giving me a new confidence to write more books and eventually publish other authors.

What has been the most rewarding part of the creation process?
I think the most rewarding part of this process is the new found confidence in my work.

What has been the most rewarding part of the promotion process?
Mindy, I absolutely love the interviews on radio, blogs, and magazine. I love connecting to the audience in hopes that someone, even if only one person is inspired by my story.

Was there anything you wish you’d known about becoming an author prior to beginning the book?
No, there were no surprises because prior to launching the book I learned as much as I can about the publishing industry. I researched online and talked to other authors about what to expect not just about the process, but also from the public, interviews, and more. I didn’t expect everything to go smoothly, but I was prepared for the surprises.

Have there been surprises?
The biggest surprise for me was the feedback; I did not expect the response that I received.

Was this something you could work on daily?
I think you have to even if it’s just for a couple hours a day, especially if you own the publishing company. There’s a lot more to publishing a book than writing it, it’s a business.

What came easy to you?
The easiest part for me was the creative and business process of developing the book and the publishing company.

BIO
Yvonne Pierre is a devoted mom of two boys, ages 17 and 8. Before becoming a mother, Yvonne always had a passion for developing works in the entertainment industry – film, books, and projects – that empower others. After her youngest son was born and was diagnosed with Down Syndrome, she redirected her attention and primary efforts toward the special needs community. She is in the process of developing new projects that will empower the special needs community here and abroad. Yvonne is the founder of Have Ya Heard (HYH), an online community and e-magazine whose primary focus is to highlights the accomplishments of those with special needs. She is the founder of a publishing company, Zyonair’s Unlimited, LLC named after her two sons.

Yvonne holds two associate degrees in Accounting and Business Management, a BSBA in Marketing, and currently working on her Executive MBA.

In addition, Yvonne is also a radio personality on her own show – The Yvonne Pierre Show – hosted on BlogTalkRadio. It’s an on-demand talk radio show dedicated to informing and inspiring listeners on topics ranging from self-improvement to parenting a special needs child.

Yvonne Pierre is a momtrepreneur, postgraduate student, advocate, on-air personality, and now author of The Day My Soul Cried. Yvonne currently resides in Metro Atlanta with Steffan, her significant other of 11-years and two sons, Zyair and Zyon.

The Day My Soul Cried is also available at Amazon.

Thank you so much Yvonne for taking time to visit with me, I hope you have great success in your book writing adventures. For someone to use turn their life around in such a positive way such as what you have done, you must look back and know you have the power to do anything you want. Great job! You have achieved a beautiful success in your life~ congratulations!

What Every Woman Should have!

2010-05-04T19:29:00.003-06:00

Please take a moment to view this wonderful video that my friend Yana Berlin created to feature one of her favorite things, Scentsy Warmers! I would love your comments too.

Natures Haven Warmer for May~ order for Mother's day

2010-05-03T08:57:00.004-06:00

Welcome the sweetness of spring finches with Nature's Haven. A creamy base with a low-sheen finish is embossed with newly budding branches, delicate leaves and gracefully poised birds that encircle the base. Awash with pastel tones of pale green, yellow and fawn, this hand-painted spring scene has the appearance of watercolors. Sitting atop the base, a cleverly designed dish shaped like a nest is visited by a single finch, ready to alight ? or perhaps take flight. Perfect for family rooms, master bedrooms or baths, Nature's Haven invites spring into your home in the most cheerful way.

How about some Just Peachy, Ginger Scent? Warmin' on a spring afternoon: Mouthwatering peaches, apricots, and nectarines, infused with the essence of ginger.
or try the
Havana Cabana Scent
Luscious medley of pineapples, oranges, bananas and berries.

Perhaps a little plug-in in the laundry room with
Clarity Scent would do just the trick to perk things up!
4.50 this month! (usually 5.00 for each bar)
Awaken the senses and uplift the spirit with this invigorating blend of rosemary, thyme, citron leaves, and freshly squeezed lemon. Clarity brings back memories of dewy herb gardens on bright May mornings.

What is a multi-pack? It is a great way to save on your products from Scentsy!

Full size system: One full size warmer and three scents 40.00 plus shipping to your door~

Scentsy Plug-in system: Gives you one plug-in and three scents for 25.00 plus shipping to your door.

Look around for the right multi-pack for you or ask me, I'd love to help~ Scentsy is a great way to spruce up your atmosphere, fast in just minutes your home will be filled with great scents!

20% of April's Scentsy Sales -Going to the Susan G. Koman Race for The Cure

2010-04-11T11:58:00.003-06:00

My friend Coralee Flug is a personal friend of Jennifer Wealer, who's fighting her second round of breast Cancer. Her drive to fund raise comes from love and a web of people stretching across at least two countries.

Coralee’s fundraiser will continue through the entire month of April ‘2010 and can
be found here: http://mindywilson.scentsy.us 20% of the sales will be contributed to the cause. When you purchase Scentsy wickless candles through site only each purchase will devote funds toward Jennifer’s Army of Angels and the cure of breast cancer. You may use the party link or you may purchase as you would normally and send a note to me at mwilson@blackfoot.net then mention you have participated in the fundraiser with your name used to purchase. Coralee had the opportunity to visit with Jennifer prior to beginning our fundraiser to give us a glimpse of what she has experienced and why this fundraiser is so important to her. (Please note that Jennifer is raising funds through the Susan G. Koman 3-Day for the Cure and Coralee is hosting a fundraiser via my Scentsy products. All in support of the breast cancer cure.

Between Coralee and Jennifer Wealer a personal snip-it without editing:

When were you diagnosed? July ‘06 & Dec ‘08 how old were you? 30/32

Tell us about your family. I am married to my husband of 11 years, Joel. And we have 3 beautiful babies—7 yr old Jackie, 5 yr old Josie Mae, 2 yr old Jamison.

Did you find the lump in a self-exam? What advice would you give about self exams and Mammograms.

My lump, both times, were found by self exam. I believe that self exams are crucial bc we know our own bodies better than anyone else. I think we have to be in control of our care of our bodies as well. When we feel like something is not right, we have the right to care to assure ourselves it’s nothing.

Did you have family history? no

How did you feel when you found out? complete shock. at the time of my first diagnosis i was in complete shock—i had a 3 yr old & 18 mo old at home. i just wanted all the info i could get my hands on to make it go away asap. the recurrence made me angry, but also exausted bc i knew what it took to fight the first time and wasn’t sure i could do it again.

Why do you walk? my girls...i NEVER want to be on the other side with my girls. i don’t wish the pain & struggle on anyone, but especially my babies. i have had 7 surgeries—3 required a week in the hospital each—and i still have at least 1 more surgery to go. i don’t want ANYONE to experience that pain. i want to find a cure—i want to take the pain option away from all women!

~END~

*******************************************************************************************************************************
*From Mindy*
Wow, that says a lot. From a mother’s perspective, what would you do? So, what can I say about Scentsy to get some of you to participate in the fundraiser? If you haven’t yet tried and you already love candles, you’ll love them. Scentsy wickless candles are safe around kids and pets, there is no open flame to knock over or forget to blow out. The scented wax is warmed from the heat a low wattage bulb- releasing the scent minutes after turning on your warmer. There are over eighty scents to choose from and numerous styles of warmers to fit a multitude of d?cor. I have enjoyed Scentsy in my home for four years and began selling Scentsy as a way to save for college for my children, and it’s working! I’m completely addicted and cannot say enough about the products. However, this month earnings will be sent to Jennifer’s Army of Angles. If you have any questions about Scentsy please ask! My Email: mwilson@blackfoot.net If you have desires of joining Scentsy please send me a note or click ‘join’ at the bottom of my website: http://mindywilson.scentsy.us Thank you so much for your time! Mindy Wilson http://mwilson.etsy.com My funky artwork http://mindywilson.scentsy.us

Get to know Coralee Flug : http://flavors.me/coraleef

Guest Blogger Cristina Corral for Pure Skin Junkie!

2010-04-09T20:30:00.006-06:00

Please read and comment and give a special welcome to my friend Cristina Corral owner of Pure Skin Junkie
Cristina is a mother of three, a skin care product developer as well as esthetician. Herline is titled: Pure Skin Junkie and it is an all natural, highly effective skin care line which treats acne, photodamage (aging), hyperpigmentation (brown spots), Rosacea and overall skin care health without irritating the skin! Pure Skin Junkie is paraben free, SLS free, no colors or fragrances! Just 100% RAW ingredients for effective results!

Best Form of Vitamin A for the Skin

Retinaldehyde is the most exciting and well researched carotinoid (vitamina a) ingredient on the market today! For years is has been researched and applauded as one of the most active ingredients in the skin but has been too expensive to use in skin care products. Through our unique lab technology, we are able to bring to to market a patent pending liposome coated Retinaldehyde.

In our bodies we convert Beta-Carotene into Retinol, Retinol into Retinaldehyde, and then Retinaldehyde into Retinoic Acid (Retin A tm). All of these retinoids have important and proven activity in the skin in an escalating level from Beta-Carotene to Retinoic Acid, respectively. Retinoic Acid is the only retinoid that requires a prescription even though Retinaldehyde has a similar activity level. Both Retinoic Acid and Retinaldehyde are substantially more active (500 times more!) than their Vitamin A counterparts which means we can use smaller amounts to achieve desired results. The importance of this will be explained shortly.

All of the retinoids have a tough time penetrating through the epidermis because of their large particle size. One study showed that only of a topically applied retinol penetrated through the upper barrier of the skin. Therefore, to have an effect on the dermis, larger volumes are often required. Unfortunately, that means that 98 of those larger volumes of retinol are sitting on top of the skin doing nothing but working against you by irritating and over-exfoliating. The advantage of using Retinaldehyde or Retinoic Acid is that smaller amounts, with much higher activity levels, can be used very effectively.

Retinoic Acid and all retinoids are most effective in their “all-trans” configuration and that is how most Retin A™ is delivered.....The bad new is that “all-trans” retinols are significantly more expensive and by law are identified on the labels are “all-trans“....(not L-retinol AGP, Retinyl Palmitate, Retinol/Vitamin A) The other bad news is that All-trans Retinol has a defect in its methodology...

Once the skin converts Retinaldehyde to Retinoic Acid, it cannot be reconverted to a form of Vitamin A that can be stored in the skin! That is why the skin converts only enough to perform the desired function and leaves the rest in the skin’s storage units in forms of Retinaldehyde and/or Retinol.

If you apply topical Retin A™, the skin cannot shut it off which results in two things; irritation from over-stimulation and over-exfoliation and a probability for the Retinoic Acid receptors to down regulate. All-trans Retinoic Acid has, by far, the most receptors of any retinoids and that is what makes it so potent. However, chronic stimulation (as in the case for every receptor in the body), results in fewer active receptors and thus diminished results over time.

All-trans Retinaldehyde is the best form possible from the above listed retinoids. In addition to having its own receptor activity, it is the immediate precursor of Retinoic Acid so the skin will convert a significant amount to that form upon application. The good news is that there will never be an over-stimulation problem because the skin regulates that conversion and uses just what it needs.

Research has repeatedly shown that Retinaldehyde has a similar activity profile to Retin A™ but with much less irritation. (practically none) That is way Retinaldehyde is safe to be used while going into the sun. It does not make the skin photosensitive like Retin A™ does. It’s also safe to use on a daily basis, again, with no side effects such as peeling or flaking skin.

If a person has discontinued the use of Vitamin A products like Retinol, Retinyl Palmatate or Retin A because the product was either non-effective OR just too irritating, they will not experience that problem using Retinaldehyde. It is the single more active, result oriented carotinoid (vit. A) with out irritating side effects!

Pure Skin Solutions’ line Pure Skin Junkie Treat Serums uses a proprietary Liposome Coated Retinaldehyde for quick penetration, dermal remodeling and little to no irritating side effects such as inflammation, peeling or flaking skin!

Organo Gold is Healthy Coffee~ a visit with Donna Abrams

2010-04-09T20:05:00.005-06:00

I was very curious about Donna Abrams coffee and I took her advice and asked her to send me some! I must admit I love the taste of her coffees! I cannot tell them from my favorites! And to think, there is mushrooms in them? I know I’ve just simplified and I wanted Donna to tell us more.

From Donna Abrams:
The business I’m in, the coffee I drink. Organo Gold is the healthy coffee alternative. We have:
King of Coffee=Spore powder extract
Black
Latte=Cream & sugar
Mocha=chocolate lover’s delight
Hot Chocolate=designed with children in mind
Green Tea Capsules
Soap=helps promote healthy skin(rashes,psoriasis)

All our products are infused with “Ganoderma” a reishi mushroom that has been grown in Asia for more than 4000 years. Known for it’s medicinal properties the Kings grew it for themselves knowing that it increased their life span. We encourage consumers to research Ganoderma for themselves. The taste is great! We have mixers to introduce the products to the public because the mushrooms once infused is odorless, tasteless and invisible. The health benefits are many: it boosts your immune system, increases your quality of sleep, affects weight loss and overall health. Don’t take my word for it try it for yourself!
www.divaliciouscoffee.com...this is my website for ordering or joining my business team. To get samples send in your address and I will send you some.

Donna can you tell me how you discovered your products?
Organo Gold was introduced to me by a long time friend Alisa Boutte at what we call a CJM (Coffee & Jazz Mixer). This is an opportunity to taste our products and hear the business plan.

What was the biggest attraction?

The biggest attraction for me was the health benefits that could be experienced by consuming an organic beverage.

What are some of the health benefits that you’ve noticed?

The first noticeable change was in my sleep habits you see I had insomnia issues and now I rest quite well and my night sweats have ceased. Lastly, after drinking the products for 2 months I was able to stop taking my high blood pressure medicine and yes I consulted my doctor before, during and after. There are so many personal testimonies from weight loss to cancers cured. You have to try it to join the parade.

I’m seemingly so impressed by the coffee products but there are more! Can you share with my readers what else you have to offer?

Besides the coffees, we also carry green tea and hot chocolate. For the consumer who just wants to get the power of Ganoderma without the beverages we have capsules and we’ve also introduced soap to our line of products for people with skin issues like psoriasis or general rashes.

Thanks so much Donna for sharing something about your product with my readers!!

Treasury!!

2010-03-12T17:44:00.002-07:00

Come and please comment!

Some Mom's and I were talking

2010-02-08T10:19:00.003-07:00

So, I was talking with some other moms...and we concluded our son's gym bags stink...I mean really, really smell. I cleaned out my son's washed everything cleaned the inside of the bag and placed one of my Scentsy travel tins inside. In a day, what a difference it made~ wow! Not, the cure-all mind you. But, it made a fantastic difference. I chose clean breeze. It's nice!! Try it! And, better yet...this month (FEB '10) your purchases are 10% off! Many of the combined packages are not 105 off as it is already a savings but this one is! And so are the 3 packs of scents, 6 packs of scents, 6 packs of car candles (car fresheners) and 6 pack of room sprays (makes a great little gift with a card!)

Earlier Front Page Glory~

2010-02-04T05:47:00.001-07:00

This beauty was shown on the front page of Etsy just about one week ago~

Made the Front Page of Etsy This Morning~

2010-02-03T05:47:00.001-07:00

New Features Offered!

2010-02-02T06:11:00.002-07:00

I'm getting asked more and more frequently.....So I'll soon offer book and product reviews as well as affordable advertising on my blog. If you have an interest in something please send me a note! mwilsonatblackfootdotnet

I Love My Pet Scentsy Warmer for February 2010

2010-02-02T06:00:00.004-07:00

Take a look a the new warmer for February! It's aSweet little thing!

On sale now at 10% off during February along with Vanilla Suede the new scent. Let me know if you'd like a sample!

Living a Handmade Life --Feature!

2010-02-01T10:09:00.010-07:00

Thank you so much for including me along with these little arty beauties, Teri!!

Some Great Sugar Cookies

2010-02-01T09:09:00.003-07:00

Made Sugar Cookies yesterday with another mom's recipe! Shhh!! Check them out! Very sweet!

All Scentsy FALL/WINTER 10% OFF

2010-02-01T08:26:00.006-07:00

You are going to want to stock up on scents this month~ all products from my entire FALL/WINTER catalog are 10% off. This saving s adds up quickly and in the end you 'll be glad you have more fabulous scents to choose from, having spent a little less along the way. If you have a favorite scent and are worried it may be discontinued in the next catalog coming in March, I'd would order a brick now, really. It's one pound of your favorite scent at 18.00 with no worries of running out any time soon. I'll be sure to order myself a Sunkissed Citrus!

Full sized warmers--now 27.00
Mid sized warmers --22.50
Plug-In styled warmers 13.50

Send me a note if you would like a sample of the newest scent: Vanilla Suede, shot to you in the mail! Send me your mailing address at mwilson@blackfoot.net !

Something New! Welcome Canadian Shoppers! Woo hoo! If you are from Canada and want to enjoy Scentsy products~ shop away! Just click the icon at the top right to choose your country. Your sweet and wonderful scents are just a few clicks away!

Evro's Luminescent Lamp READY TO SHIP

2010-01-31T11:29:00.008-07:00

A perfect selection for anyone loving warm hues, earthy designs and luminescent lighting.

Last day for free shipping within the USA

2010-01-31T11:20:00.003-07:00

Just a quick little reminder~ Free shipping for this last day in January and I'll send you a free Scentsy car freshener in Berry Blush with the fist order placed today and one other scent sample to sniff! The free shipping from my shop does not include lamps or lampshades, wedding products or fabric~ sorry!

What Goes Into a Handbag--Meet Creator JennJohn

2010-01-19T05:29:00.017-07:00

How did you choose your patterns for your products?

I had my husband reverse engineer a handbag he bought for me when I discovered it felt like parts I could buy at the local craft shop. I made a handbag for my sister in law with that pattern for her birthday and quickly depleted all of my Interior Design fabric samples to make several more for friends and family. Then I found a necktie messenger bag pattern on a D.I.Y. website. I loved the different colors, patterns and textures incorporated into one bag. I started massing neckties by the hundreds and was creating necktie handbags as fast as I could to fill orders. Then something strange happened...the season changed. I was left with hundreds of dark colored neckties because my customers were now interested in lighter, brighter colored bags. I sat down at the drawing table and designed a pattern that still used the shape of the neckties but could take advantage of fabrics again instead of neckties. Viola! I created the pattern that I use now. As the fashion trends have changed over the years so have my patterns for my sizes and styles. Now my large hobos are my best sellers. By popular request I am returning to the necktie bags soon... Tiedcottage will house my one-of-a-kind necktie handbags...stay tuned!a>

Beyond your lovely fabric choices and quality craftsmanship~ what do you see as making your purses special?

I build each of my color schemes for my handbags as I would design a room, house or business for one of my Interior Design clients. I utilize the principles and elements of design, (such as texture, scale, color, form, light and space), to achieve the look and feel of each of my bags. I like to think of my handbags as professionally designed spaces or rooms for on the go.

Have you always sewn?

No, not always, I was too busy painting or drawing. I learned the sewing basics at an early age by watching my mother sew small projects. I never really found a need to sew and did not develop it until later in my life. The sewing process seemed to take too long, I used to be so impatient. Can you believe I actually stapled together Christmas stockings one year instead of sewing them? Oh the horror!

I'm someone who doesn't REAllY sew, I'm enchanted by the process and admire those that do~ but I don't know if I have it in me. Though I have made many elastic waist skirts from pieces of aged curtains and vintage fabrics...and have designed my own fabric too!I have learned that many quilters and seamstresses are artists in other ways. Do you feel that's you?

Absolutely! I love the design process the most, not the sewing. The design is the part I crave, hunting for the fabrics. Sewing it all together and selling it in the form of handbags is really a cover to fund my fabric addiction. When friends and family found out about my sewing ambitions I was plagued with alterations, outfit and drapery making requests. I politely tell people I sew very well in straight lines, that's it. That is truly all I have in me for the sewing process, straight lines for handbags.

Are you able to sew each day?

For the last year I have. I have to, my business demands it. (congratulations!! woo hoo!)

When is your magic hour to create?

It has taken several years for me to admit this to such a large forum, but I am a recovering night owl. I really love the serenity the night time provides. Not too mention, it is almost impossible to completely recover from the schedule of several years or bartending...

Did you grow up around creative parents?

I have very creative parents. My mom made me "over the top" birthday cakes every year. Her cakes were better than the presents I would receive. She was always crafting Christmas ornaments, bedroom decorations and toys for me too. She was the one that taught me the value of a one of a kind handmade creation and making something out of nothing. I don't think she ever had the luxury of buying new pieces and parts, they were always found or donated. I remember my dad making pretzels, wine, seashell mirrors and leather flipflops and belts all within a years time. He was the one who taught me one creative outlet is NEVER enough.

Personally, I find it difficult to place a lot of my own artwork around me. I have a few pieces up but not many. And I have loads of stationery around ( I don't seem to list within my own shop) But, I rarely use it. When I do...I feel like I have stumbled upon a real treat! (yeah I'm a nerd) How many of your own purses do you have?

That's a great question...not as many as you would think. My personal handbags do not stay mine for long...my family has a way of confiscating them from me, which is fine because that gives me the chance to advertise another color scheme. I have also had people literally buy the bag off my back! On several occasions I was left with a brown paper bag full of my belongings. True story! Otherwise I am surrounded by several of my other creations, paintings, furniture, draperies, lamps, recovered chairs and sofa makeovers, seashell mirrors, and other colorful random repurposed and redesigned items.

Do you have a favorite color combination right now?

I can't say I have a favorite color combination at any moment, because I love ALL colors! I can't just pick one. It is more about the fabric combinations for me. For instance, I am gearing up for a "Worldwide Tour" with my handbags and I am collecting fabrics from all around the world. I am in love with fabric from India! I have always been enamored by crewel embroidery, the texture, patterns and colors are fantastic! I used to cross stitch and really appreciate the amount of devotion each piece takes. So I am really excited about the opportunity to use these foreign fabrics in concert with staples like linen and denim to create some gorgeous one-of-a-kind handbags.

Are you seeking the next fashion trends for inspiration?

I watch the trends for size more than anything. Size does matter, lol! I was right on track with the "colors of the season" for some time and they were never the big sellers. Ultimately people buy what they love regardless of what the magazines tell us to..my fabric shopping trips are no different, I buy what I love. I just cross my fingers everyone else loves them too.

I would like to take this time to share Jenn's links~ please take time to get to know her!

Jenn's Etsy shop, , Jenn's blog and Jenn's website . I am concentrating on my Etsy shop more than my other sites...they have a much bigger advertising budget than me :)

What are a few of your favorite online stops during the day or week?

I can not live without: Craftcult
It is a great tool for anyone who sells on Etsy.

And another Etsy related favorite: Craftopolis

It is all about the great Treasury Lists on Etsy. Making Treasury Lists is newest passion, it is a great way to showcase other artists on Etsy while exercising my graphic design muscles.

Jenn, let's talk about the names of unique names chosen for your handbags!

People always ask about the names of my handbags...I started bartending again part time after staying home with my newborn daughter for six months exclusively. I felt the need to communicate with adults and loved the opportunity to make money while doing so. It was about that time that my handbags really started to gain attention. I was getting requests for catalogs and websites and just MORE! So that is when I really put all my efforts into a "made to order" operation. I complied several color schemes and referred to them as "tans," "browns," "greens," etc. I got really confusing, really fast! I was lamenting over it one night while the bar was slow, I was watching a electrician put in our new fabulous drop pendant lights over the bar counter. I will never forget when the narrow spotlight from the pendants magically illuminated an Apple Martini I had just made a customer. That was my "A HA!" moment! How beautiful the green from the drink was against the dark granite surface, it was sparkling and glowong just like a green sequin fabric I used in a bag...APPLE MARTINI! That's it! I'll name my bags after drinks! My bar customers loved it of course, they were my biggest fans! It was so easy from there to give all my color schemes names, Cosmopolitan for the "pinks," White Russian for the "tans" and the rest just followed. I know hundreds of drink recipes and there will always be hundreds or thousands more to choose from.

Jenn, can you tell me: what would you be doing if you weren't sewing and selling handbags?

Besides returning to Interior Design, I really would love to make custom cakes. There has been an overwhelming popularity for cake making in the last couple of years and I hate to be so unoriginal, but I have always been surrounded by great cakes! Cake making is another passion of mine. I have brought tears to peoples eyes with some of my custom cake creations for their special day. I know my husband's engineering mind teamed up with my design skills and pastry know how could create a fantastic business using fondant and icing!

Above you'll find a few of my favorites, I did not realize that they are each Jenn's pleated bag design! But, I love them and here are the links to them shown from top to bottom.

MOCHABERRY LATTE / large pleated hobo

GREEN ICED TEA / small pleated hobo
GIRLIE MARTINI / small pleated hobo

Jenn~ thank you for taking time to share yourself with my readers!
Thank you Mindy for your interest in jennjohn!

Evro's Neighbor Large Print by Mwilson on Etsy

2010-01-14T05:34:00.001-07:00

Free shipping through the 31st of January for items shipping to the USA. Exclusions are wedding items,lamp products and fabric.

Evro's Neighbor Large Print by Mwilson on Etsy

Random Images from my own shoppie

2010-01-13T06:11:00.003-07:00

Some items from my recent Etsy Faves

2010-01-13T06:09:00.001-07:00

Online Workout?

2010-01-04T09:05:00.002-07:00

Okay, so for the last twenty minutes or so I enjoyed a bit of exercise with some videos from Slimtree.com Crazy? Whatever, it got me moving and I'll try some more tomorrow without sound so that my family can continue to sleep while I try to burn off fudge and sugar cookies.

Meet Author Jennifer Greenleaf!

2010-01-01T19:23:00.016-07:00

Maine Living: One Writer's Perspective:

Can you give my readers a synopsis?
This book is a compilation of articles I wrote in 2001 that have since grown stale on the Internet. My goal: gather them all up, and breath new life into them. I wanted to give my readers a glimpse into what it's like to live in this great State of Maine from "one writer's perspective." Readers will walk away with information, bits of history, entertainment, and diary-style writing.

You have several titles, Jenn what made this one special for you?
This particular title is special for me because each piece of writing featured in this text was written as events were unfolding in my life, as I wanted to learn new things, and as I experienced new things. I was a young mother, so each piece of writing also holds memories of what I was doing and how I was caring for my children at the time.

What were some of your biggest challenges while writing Maine Living?
When these pieces were originally written, I was living in a small duplex in Boothbay Harbor, Maine. While it's a beautiful area filled with excellent touristy things to do, it's a difficult place for locals to live "off season." We experienced a lot of power-outages from ice storms, we had to do a lot of walking with babies in strollers because our car was unreliable, and things like that. Each time I sat down to write, I used those challenges to fuel whatever I planned to complete that day.

After the project's completion, did you think later about something you should have included?
I should've done more town and city features because there are a lot of interesting and unheard of corners in Maine that deserve some attention.
Who is your biggest cheerleader?
My children! They want to bring my books in to show their classes during "sharing time" and "show 'n tell."

What blogs do you like to read?
My list is lengthy, so I'll give you the short and sweet version:
http://www.creativelyselfemployed.com/blog.htm
http://therenegadewriter.com/
http://thewritermama.wordpress.com/
http://somethingshewrote.blogspot.com/
http://flibbitygibbet.blogspot.com/

Were your parents creative types as well?
My mother used to be a "crafter" and worked the Maine Made Craft shows. My father used to be a computer science teacher, but he liked to draw when he was very young.

We know what you do well; what is something you struggle with?
Time management is my biggest hiccup right now. I find myself focusing on doing things for others or for the household during the majority of the day, which ultimately leads to very little writing time. This is a problem I'm consistently working toward fixing, though.

Jenn has a busy life as a mother of two, a stepmother to one, and soon will be a "kitty mommy" of three kittens!

She adds: My family inspires the majority of my writing and book ideas, which is such a gratifying feeling. Each time I hold a copy of one of my books, or see something published online, I can't help thinking, "I wouldn't have been able to accomplish this if it wasn't for them."

Please ask for Jenn's books at your library, and visit her sites to learn more about this hard working and creative lady!

Jenn's Facebook Fan page

Side Note: Check back in the next few weeks to learn a little something about one of this author's other titles.

101 Mixed-Media Art Projects, How-To's & Ideas: A Beginner's Guide to Art With No Rules!

Writing Blog:
12 Publications in 12 Months Blog:
Happy 2010 Jenn~ I'm wishing you great success!

Free shipping for the first seven days of 2010

2010-01-01T10:41:00.002-07:00

Go USA: Free shipping for the first seven days of 2010 January 01, 2010 thru January 07, 2010 purchases within the USA! Exclusions are Lamps products and wedding stationery!

If you pay and shipping was included, your shipping will be refunded!

Meet Author K. M. Groshek

2009-12-29T05:09:00.013-07:00

Recently, I had the opportunity to get to know Kim Groshek, she is a beautiful, creative and driven woman. I asked her a few questions about her book release Bug's Trip to The Store and I'm so glad she could share some time with me enabling my readers to get to know her somewhat too!

What prompted you to write the book?
I’ve always wanted to write a children’s book since i was little. I almost forgot about it for many years, it would come up in conversations during the past over 26 years, then two years ago, I set a goal to run a half marathon in 25 states. Through the journey accomplishing this goal (in 2 years) I attended a writing workshop in Colorado, which helped me realize that I could write creatively. I have 6 professional technical articles published, for my career but that is much different. So, during my travels, I journaled and an idea hit me on my way to Vermont. This is when I wrote my first draft of the first book in the series. From there I illustrated and refined the draft several times. I knew this was going to be good when, after my half marathon, eating my fresh soup in a restaurant overlooking Lake Champlain, I read my draft to an 8 year old and ask him to give me his honest opinion, if I read my manuscript to him. I watched as I read my book to him and he was very intent and listening, absorbing every word. After I was done reading it, he nodded profusely, saying he really liked it. So, then I followed the rest of the publishing process as other authors/illustrators do.
Were you able to have insight to illustrator or illustrations used?
Yes, I have an art background. It was something I went to school in college for a short while over 20 years ago. I basically put my art on the back burner since then, doing many craft type projects (selling things at craft shows and so on, but that was the extent). I brought my art out again this past year, because it was time. Yes, I illustrated my book, I used magic marker, then transferred into Photoshop and did the rest in Photoshop.

What is your favorite part of the book?
Favorite part of the book, really all of it, since the bug character, is really coming alive from my imagination. That is the neat part about it! I do have a picture that is really cool, I’ll see If I can attach it so you can see how that rings true in the picture.

Are you working on other projects involving writing?
Other projects, yes, I have 2 more books in the works, the 2nd book, called Bug meets his friend is going to be published in Feb and the 3rd book Bug goes through the maze is all illustrated, I am working on the manuscript as we speak. I also have a fire prevention series, called Floyd the Fire Truck series, which I am presenting to the insurance industry in January, which will include an online book and some games. I am also starting to kick off writing a Y/A novel, ideas are being kicked around, not sure if this will be a series or one book. I plan on working on the Y/A project during 2010. This will be my main focus besides traveling for promoting my book.

Kim's Message: I feel the message in my book is a good one and that is important to me to help readers learn perseverance, determination and resiliency will help them overcome any obstacle. Staying strong and being creative in the process.

Closing:I'd like to ask my readers to go to their local library and ask for Bug's Trip to the Store by K.M. Groshek, let's help her get the word out and her book in more libraries!
Please visit Kim's site's to get to know her further along with two new covers for upcoming books, which can also be pre-ordered!
http://www.kmgroshek.com
Blog: http://www.kgroshek.blogspot.com
Facebook author page: http://www.facebook.com/kmgroshek

Now taking Canadian Shoppers!

2009-12-28T21:31:00.003-07:00

I'd like to welcome my Canadian Shoppers to my Scentsy Site! Shopping for Scentsy recently opened up to the Canadian market and I'm glad to now offer the Scentsy shopping experience to my neighboring Canadians!!

Excited for my new molds--Scentsy and Berry Blush Meltdown!

2009-12-28T10:13:00.007-07:00

As you can see the new warmer for January has an adorable design, perfect for any tween and also Valentine's Day! If you purchase the warmer during January you'll get a 10% discount! It's just enough that you can spend that savings on an extra bar of Scentsy wax!

I had ordered new molds to create my Scentsy samples of Berry Blush>>> (January's new Scentsy scent) I'm hoping they'll be here so I can begin the meltdown on Thursday! Woo hoo! I got a note they've been shipped, so we'll see! Scentsy is a new company, just celebrating five wonderful years of business. Now is the best time to become a consultant! There are so many areas where the product needs featuring and that's were you can play the part, earn an income selling an amazing product that so many people love!

I'm planning a meltdown!

2009-12-27T11:21:00.003-07:00

The brand new scent for Scentsy is Berry Blush and wow is it delicious! Warm, and somehow tropical and mouthwatering! If you are living in the USA please send me an email if you'd like a sample! mwilsonatblackfoot.net I ask for your mailing address to send you a sample in the next two weeks good for the next twenty requests!! New featured scents are sold at a 10% discount during their debut month. Make sure to sign up for my monthly Scentsy newsletter to be the first to learn of new warmer designs and new scents!

18" Two hundred Shade

2009-12-17T23:04:00.003-07:00

I had this shade (on another elk lamp that my husband made me) at a local Christmas Bazaar a couple of weeks ago. What a hit! Wow, I had endless comments on it's unique style and beauty! I was really fortunate to have power in the middle of the gym! I felt like a queen with my little power inverter! Just a note about my lamp shades. I can create a shade design from any of my art...or from yours or your children's art for that matter~ just contact me for details!

Thinking of Selling Scentsy?

2009-12-14T20:41:00.005-07:00

I'll tell you two reasons I'm selling Scentsy I love the products-L* O * V * E them. And, I could easily see that I'd soon need additional income for my children and their college funds. I have a few years before their headed there and I have some other resources. Regardless, I felt like I was far behind in my endeavor. I can say I'm pleasantly surprised with the savings and it continues to grow--quickly! So, if I have to say if you are considering selling a product for much of the same reason as mine~do it! It's easy to join just go to my website: and click on Join! You will be given everything you need to start your business and I'll be there along with my team to help along the way! Any questions you have will be answered and you be soon be proud belonging to such a great company...eventually meeting your financial goals!

Have you tried Scentsy? These wick-less candles are affordable, long, long lasting too. When you are tired of a scent turn the warmer off...when you need a change warm the scent and pour it back into it's original container and try another! (Re-use or toss or save your old scent for fire starter!) The warmer designs are so fun and beautiful, you'll find one for every corner of your home! And the scents are simply delicious, with over eighty different scents there is a collection for each and every nose!

Morphans In Flight Behold Peridot

2009-12-13T09:26:00.004-07:00

Morphans here have their eye upon this periodot ring and it's warming olivine qualities. Behold oh sweet peridot. I used a heavy textile pattern (much like tweed and crosshatch) in the background, warm gold berries in contrast with the white berries and birds n' tracks. Peridot colored ring is surrounded with shades of ruby and topaz.

CLICK ON THE IMAGES TO VIEW IN WHOLE ;)

Order In Time For Christmas!

2009-12-12T23:28:00.003-07:00

Yes, there is still time to order Scentsy for your sister, mom, co-workers for Christmas! Check it out! One plug-in warmer and one bar is 20.00!

The Year In A View-My 2010 Wall Calendar

2009-12-12T08:12:00.003-07:00

Here is my new 2010 Calendar~ I don't have too many new items in my shop. But, this is one. I have combined many of my images into one pleasing arrangement to surround the calendar. It's 16 x 20 printed on matte finish paper. Ready to ship~ check it out!

Oh so Bazaar

2009-12-11T15:44:00.002-07:00

A friend of mine will be taking my Scentsy and my artwork out of town to a Bazaar. So, I have been busy on my birthday packing up all of my products for her to do so. I'm really excited and she's so kind to offer doing this for me. I am glad that I can take credit/debit cards too-making the whole thing easier for shoppers.

Another little Scentsy Note~

2009-12-11T08:41:00.002-07:00

I love candles, but some I just cannot smell when they are lit. Perhaps after having them burning for the day...I smell something faint~ then when I blow them out the entire room gets filled with a black cloud of smoke....thoroughly un-doing what I'd set out to do: Create a lovely scent in my room. That's another couple of reasons why I chose Scentsy. Minutes after turning on any one of my warmers I smell the scent I've chosen to us. Currenty: Honey Pear Cider hits the spot! When I go to leave, I turn off my warmer and no big black cloud. I still smell the fabulous scent!

Favorite Scents?

2009-12-10T22:26:00.002-07:00

Okay...so today....what are my favorite scents?
Wow, so many to choose from!

Camu Camu (tropical...sweet fresh)
Enchanted Mist (bit of pear and apple)
Honey Pear Cider (yeah, just like that!)

Scentsy! My Newest Love and Venue

2009-12-10T22:09:00.005-07:00

Have you heard of Scentsy? If not I need to tell you how fabulous they are. Scentsy is a marvelous wickless candle that uses a 25w bulb to warm the special Scentsy wax and releases the most incredible scents there are. No, really! Making them safe around children and pets because there is no open flame. Additionally, this makes them safe around forgetful peeps, such as myself. There are over eighty delicious scents and if you already love scented candles you will find the perfect scents for you and your family ~ for sure!! Here are two examples of random warmers. I love them both!

Why am I selling Scentsy?
1) for three years I haven't shut up about them
2)Can't get enough of them
3)I need some college funds for my children!
4)I am totally addicted to them...or did I already say that?

Wow, Holy Abandonment!

2009-12-10T22:06:00.001-07:00

Abandonment –verb (used with object)
to leave completely and finally; forsake utterly; desert: to abandon one's farm; to abandon a child; to abandon a sinking ship.

Yikes~ this is me! But, I'm starting up again folks!

Groovy Inclinations

2009-09-27T16:49:00.001-06:00

Groovy Inclinations

Posted using ShareThis

Molting Progression-small Print

2009-06-21T11:09:00.004-06:00

This print continues to gain much attention.
Print: 17.50 8.5 x 11

Silk Screened Birdy Recipe Cards

2009-06-21T08:05:00.003-06:00

My friend Denise suggested that I create some recipe cards. I'm glad she did, these just make me smile. A set of eight hand printed recipe cards, a place for the secrets for your best recipes on the front and back of each 4 x 6 card. Printed on 100% recycled Wausau paper in driftwood with aqua ink...lovely to give to the new bride with some of your favorite recipes. Created with my little gocco.

Exclusive Groovy Tropics Cotton Fabric

2009-06-20T06:58:00.006-06:00

Order as much as you like this is limited and it is only available with Groovy Inclinations Wow, this is a large print. each flower measures 5.5 x 5 at it's largest points, the leaves are 5.5 inches long as well. What gorgeous curtains it would make it a white room....

You can purchase this fabric right here:
One yard: 23.00

Two Yards 46.00

Three Yards:69.00

More and More Fabric!

2009-06-20T06:50:00.004-06:00

Cowie and Friends Rattle Fabric

I am beginning to wonder if I should have two Etsy shops. I have so many fabric designs and it's beginning to clutter up my art print shop. I need some opinions! I had worked as a textile designer for just about one year and I have decided to let some of my little babies go on to new homes and projects. here is one that I modified somewhat from it's original format. I think it would make fun wrapping paper too. Cowie and Friends Rattle Fabric is only available in my shop :)

One R Two

2009-06-14T17:49:00.004-06:00

Currently one of my faves in my shoppie, I'll be shipping a canvas print to Washington tomorrow. One of my customers from The Farm Chick show in Spokane, Wa. purchased the print. It's been drying and now ready to ship. It looks beautiful!
Print: 8.5 x 11 17.50

Groovy Inclinations Tiny Purse

2009-06-14T17:45:00.001-06:00

Created from my very own fabric designs this tiny little purse can be made from any one of my fabrics, shown here in my poplar print. Each is made upon order so please allow 7-10 days prior to your shipment. (though assembly is going quite speedy!!) This little baby will hold my fave lip gloss, some cash and my business cards too. It's 3.5" x 5". Please remember that this is the only place my fabric can be purchased so you will have something very unique!

One Yard Orange Flo Original CottonFabric LG

2009-06-11T21:23:00.004-06:00

Okay...another fabric listed in my shoppie! I love this stuff~ it's bright and sunny and goes with so many styles! This listing is for one yard...order what you please! Just send me a convo through Etsy!

New Fabric Listed and More to Come!

2009-06-11T07:29:00.002-06:00

Ruby and Turquoise Luminescent Lamp

2009-06-11T06:06:00.002-06:00

Entire lamp is 12" tall with a 9.5" shade created from my own textile design and printed on back lit film. Create a soothing ambiance with this soft lighting alternative. Add to an entry way, a guest room or bedroom or a corner in your kitchen. It's amazing how one fixture can change the look of a room!

Hues are soft blues grey and ruby. See the print here: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15261457
Cord is over 7' long.

Safety Suggestions (we all have to have them :)
Light bulb: 25 watt.
Do not leave in care of little ones.
Do not leave unattended.

Farm Chicks Show--Results

2009-06-10T19:04:00.003-06:00

I did well at The Farm Chicks Show held over this past weekend in Spokane, Wa. I got tons of compliments and some great sales. People seemed to fight over my business cards and really pour-over my prints with great interest. I was surprised to find that I didn't sell any lamps but again there was a lot of interest and I expect gains to come in the near future from my experience. I can't wait to list more of my fabric on Etsy, it is really fun and stunning! Whole yards are 23.00 each, and you may order as much as you'd like. 1/2 yards are 17.00 each. If any of you have any questions don't hesitate to contact me mwilsonatblackfoot.net .

More Fabric

2009-06-02T05:48:00.003-06:00

Each of my fabric designs will be created as limited print runs. I can't say enough about the crew I worked with at DPI they worked with me every step of the way and produced such fabulous products! The quality and service surpasses that ones I have used in the past. If you check them out, make sure to tell them that I sent you!

My Very Own Fabric!

2009-06-02T05:41:00.008-06:00

Inspired by one of my other designs here: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5892661 this sweet little bundle of fabric has a lot of style. A little girl's skirt would be fabulous, an apron...sigh so many possibilities! I make a habit of pushing the uses of my designs to their fullest, the flowers from this once came from a silk screen design and they show up from time to time in other projects such as stationery.

The style and color scheme really has a vintage quality to it, as if you found
fabric from something you had as a child.

One Yard Dear Flapling:

Three Yards Dear Flapling:

Two Yards Dear Flapling:

Two Hundred Square

2009-05-30T07:23:00.004-06:00

I'm being square. Actually this image has made it to the front page of etsy so many times, that I have decided to offer it as it's own image in both large and small sizes! Magnificent wear on this building, captured within my lens while in Plains, MT. The large version is printed on Canvas or matte, or matte canvas paper as a 16 x 16 image. (paper choice for customer to decide) The small print is 8 x 8 and offered on heavy Epson matte finish paper.

Farm Chicks Show--Getting Ready

2009-05-30T07:06:00.004-06:00

Here are a few images that I took recently and have for sale in my shop both images are located in Wallace Idaho. These will be a great addition to my work for the Farm Chicks Show being held in Spokane Washington, next weekend. It's going to be amazing and I would love to meet you if you happen to be strolling around Spokane that weekend! Please stop by and say 'hello!'.

Wear T Red Shoes Madam

2009-05-30T07:01:00.002-06:00

With this new addition to my shoe series, I have chose to create a silk screened print of these vintage T-strap babies. The original shoes are really lovely and red and should be in my closet! However, they aren't mine. This image was inspired by a photo take by Elizabeth Eden! Thanks so much Elizabeth!
http://www.flickr.com/people/ebet/

I only made 70 of this print in this color scheme all printed on Brockway 60 cover stock cut at 8" x 5". The butter colored paper has a felt-like feel. Your print would be nice to matted and give to a lady in your life. Remind her to dance freely, and take steps with her chin up.
Print: 10.00

Fabric Printing

2009-04-27T08:47:00.004-06:00

I'm working with a company named DPI for my fabric printing. Initially, what I can say is that they have excellent customer care. I'm getting one on one attention and all of my questions answered immediately. They are amazing. I'll share more as my designs are being created and delivered.

YouTube - Cool Beans

2009-04-22T19:22:00.001-06:00

YouTube - Cool Beans

Hey check out my son's youtube video (:

byhand.me Spotlight

2009-04-18T13:05:00.002-06:00

These are just a fewsies of my favorites. Random indeed. ;)

Blog Featured My Etsy Store

2009-04-09T05:55:00.005-06:00

Fine bloggie feature of my photo on Candice Shelton's blog, The Design Boards Thanks a bundle Kopah!

Canice Shelton of Kopah creates fabulously delicious soaps. (not the dramatic ones having chaos and high fashion) Soapy-soaps with yummy scents such as chai tea and lavender and orange. There is even something for your pup! Check her out!

Etsy Stalker Featured Molting Progression

2009-03-30T08:14:00.004-06:00

Oh what a sweet selection of art from Etsy Stalker from. This feature of my photograph was created for the Self Stalking series by Beatrice and Violet, artist submitted their own work for consideration. Outstanding designs and site!

More Portraits

2009-03-29T13:14:00.008-06:00

Adore images from maronresur! Love the red and yellow saturated on his face.

Portraits!

2009-03-28T14:10:00.009-06:00

I have fascination to view others artwork. I adore portraits that are slightly off-beat and unusual. Here are a few of my favorites. This is something that I'd love to find my artistic style in this area...someday.

Please visit the following artists shops to see more of their outstanding style.

1st image from: http://DeadpanAlley.etsy.com 2nd image from: http://peggitha.etsy.com 3rd image from: http://sarahtakahashi.etsy.com

And the winner is!

2009-03-23T10:35:00.004-06:00

This Is Glamorous has posted the winner of my delicious design (It's mine, I can say so~right?) , the spring print Morphee

Check it out! Blair, the winner of my 16 x 16 matte canvas print has a beautiful blog and I'm hoping many visitors make it over to say hi! Congratulations Blair! Your print will ship in a day or two!

A hopeful addition to my store

2009-03-23T08:10:00.007-06:00

Well as of this am, he's not settled in just yet. But, I hope to add this fine rooster to my store soon. I created him for a friend of mine who has been a super gent in sending my calendars the last two years. I couldn't be more grateful. But, I certainly got behind on my end of the deal! I have a new book project with Arnica Creative I'm illustrating a children's book for them. And, well these things take time! I'd like to introduce Animals In Color, I fell in love with the bright concepts and shapes of Sebastiano Ranchetti creative critters and knew my kitchen would be a much happier place to adorn his work! I have so many favorites. Please take time to view his shop and his other site as well to see his digital art. I'm sure you'll find some favorites of your own!

Super Scents!!

2009-03-20T15:41:00.003-06:00

I am really enjoying some fabulous scents in my home right now! I got some new Scentsy bars and I'm in heaven! Right now, I can't decide if I love Lucky in Love or Irish Cream more. I can't say enough about the product. I feel great in knowing there is no open flame, my bars will last a long, long time and for economic reasons, it makes sense since I'm re-using my scents over and over! I just pour them back into the containers when I want to change things from soothing Sugar Cookie to Cranberry Spice, or Lemon Lavender, Home Sweet Home....Well you get the idea! I have been so happy since getting my little Scentsy warmer over a year ago. Check it out and let me know which scents you love best! If you are in the Seattle area contact Katie Jones to get a whiff of her products personally!

My Children's Book

2009-03-20T13:57:00.004-06:00

Yep, I wrote this! Really, I used to blab about it all of the time. But, I haven't in a while and I just renewed my contract with my publisher. It's a story about friendship,decision making and a girl with a lot of little quirks. When she discovers someone is copying her, she flips and doesn't want to be that person's friend any longer. But, guess who she finds to help her with her final decision?

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I'm not telling. That would ruin the story for you! Check into it!

Only a few remain!

2009-03-17T05:40:00.002-06:00

I'm thinking I only have six or seven of these tucked away. They are coming to a close. I'd made about fifty of them. Sad...going, going..
I enjoy putting a spin on images from nature, this print is no exception. I'd like to find it in a child's room, kitchen, entry way or office.

Poplar leaves was produced one of my Gocco's. My intent was to show off registration because it's just more interesting to me. The paper is has a felt-like feel, it's pale yellow and 80lb text similar to 60lb cover, the deckle is at the left of the print the brand is Brockway color is ivory, size is 8.5 x 11 with plenty of space around the image for framing. Brockway sure makes an excellent printmaking paper.

I'd love to create some wedding invitations or save the dates with this sort of theme and pattern!

Recent Sale

2009-03-15T20:12:00.004-06:00

I woke this am to having made this sale! Woot woot~
This is printed on 8.5 x 11 paper and the image is 5 x 5. Looks fabulous printed on matte canvas as a 16 x 16!

Lucky Magazine has Featured my Print

2009-03-13T08:16:00.006-06:00

This was supa-news for me this am~ The online version of Lucky Magazine Featured my print!
It's the very same print that is being given away by by This is Glamorous

Giveaway-Morphee

2009-03-12T05:18:00.009-06:00

With some unexpected blogger image trouble, I wasn't able to post this pronto!! Anyhow, I have been tweeting and sending out various promos about this event. So, far there has been a terrific turn out. however, if you are just tuning in, you still have time to run over to This Is Glamorous and enter the drawing for the giveaway that Roséline is hosting on her fabulously styled bloggie!

* print is 16 x 16, printed on matte finish canvas; not available for purchase until after give-away is complete! After the sale available to This Is Glamorous readers only. (that's why you need to check this out) the print will not be available for sale again for an extended amount of time! Additionally, this print will be listed at a special price for this time only. So, snap it up Groovy Peeps...head over and check out the Giveaway! Make sure to keep up to date and subscribe to Roséline's blog to get all of the details. In doing so you will gain an fantastic little treat in your in box (her updates) as well!

This print was created with my own photos, illustrations and textile patterns will just a soft enough design it will coexist with many decors!

It looks like have have done something dumb

2009-03-09T07:31:00.002-06:00

I think I'm actually following my own blog! Ugg, how dumb is that? How do un-follow?

Katie Jones ~ Sentsy

2009-03-08T15:30:00.003-06:00

A while back I visited my best friend's home and it smelled fantastic. Honestly...she has a cat box and all. But, even my son was impressed and loved how delicious her home smelled. After some prodding and some investigation, I discovered the source was her several Scentsy lamps in her home! I love these! Scentsy has many terrific products, such as fragrant sprays and car candles. But the idea of a wickless candle sold me. And honestly, there weren't many candles that I loved. I rarely could even smell them when had them burning. I have them in my home too. I also have a new friend! Katie Jones who sells the Scentsy products. Katie is from Seattle and we chit chat from time to time. She's a trustworthy hard- working mom, with a great sense of scents and style! I can't say enough about my new little smell good treat. There are numerous crazy delicious scents it really is difficult to choose which ones to order! One of my faves was lavender vanilla, which seems to have now been replaced with a new version. I used Sizzling Coconut throughout much of the winter. I've notice the scent lasts a VERY long time. With the Sizzling Coconut, there was a rich cinnamon scent melded along with the coconut and as the scent was used the coconut became more prominent. Not only are there a bundle of different scents, they always have great deals going on and the warmers (heated with a 25 watt bulb) are very decorative and come in dozens of colors, textures and styles. You won't have any trouble finding one to go in your home or office. You may however, have trouble deciding on which one to order! In my home, we all love it. The lamp warms up so quickly that before I know it my home smells yummy. And usually it's just minutes after I plug it in when I begin to smell it! All without an open flame!

JanieMary Large Sized Print

2009-03-08T14:41:00.003-06:00

Click your heals JanieMary your dreams may come true. Little do you know you are in control of what happens to you.

Larged sized print is created on matte finsh canvas.

16" wide x 20" tall

Morphans Sunny Side

2009-03-06T18:01:00.003-07:00

Newly listed item in my shoppie~
pairs well with many images from my shop.

This is glamorous

2009-03-06T17:03:00.005-07:00

I'll be posting a special announcement soon...I'll be teaming up with Roséline at This Is Glamorous for an awesome shopping opportunity! In the mean time, check out her style filled blog! So, check back soon for more details!

Juicy Moot Feature

2009-03-06T11:20:00.008-07:00

March 2009 Juicy Moot has been featured in the new online magazine Viva La Moda it's on page 45! What a great layout! Thanks so much, Ainhoa and staff.
http://www.vivalamoda.co.cc/

Ooola, la lamps!

2008-12-12T09:46:00.002-07:00

Life is amazing and crazy...I'm behind on everything! I'm so sorry for some of my customers! I'll catch up soon! Here are some new designs and items in my shoppie!