An internet colleague of mine started a blog in the last few weeks and is running a little weekly contest to attract readers. I won one of the prizes!

Sweet!



It costs nothing to try, here's how:

Just leave a comment in this blog

http://redbessbonney-akasusan.blogspot.com/

about something in either
http://RedBessBonney.etsy.com
- or -
http://RedBessBonneyToo.etsy.com

Her 4 yo son will pick the winning name on Sunday each week, and she will post next week's item then!

The age old craft of knitting is still hugely popular for good reason; the repetition of motions is therapeutic, it’s portable and compact, and superbly available on a skinny budget. Thank goodness I have no desire to knit!

But have you seen what knitters are doing lately? You might not recognize it anymore! Come in and meet a member of the California Crafters Club of Etsy (CCCOE), who’s ‘Passion is Knitting’.

OhMay

LILY OF THE VALLEY WRIST CORSAGE


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11883244


BOLD AND SASSY BASKETWEAVE


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9497306


PRETTYCHEAPJEWELRY: Your shop announcement amazed me! This is the first I've heard of 'free form knitting'! Can you explain more about it, such as where and how did you learn of it?

OHMAY: Free form knitting is something I made up because that is how it feels to me. I start with an idea and begin the basics of casting on, as well as with the stitch I think will work.

Working along, I usually can tell if the design is going to be as I envision. If not, I will start making design changes in progress until I get a finished product. Sometimes it turns out how I imagined and other times it turns out a complete surprise.


HE LOVES ME, HE LOVES ME NOT FIBER ART LARIAT


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13366360


I have the experience and knowledge of many different knitting techniques and do not have a problem in changing the instructions in patterns. In fact, I do not find it extremely important or worrisome when a project is not coming out “right” according to the pattern. There is no right or wrong to me in knitting, only that you are happy with what you create. The process is more an attitude than something to ”learn”.

PRETTYCHEAPJEWELRY: Your slogan is 'Passion for Knitting', why?

OHMAY: I have been knitting for over four decades and it has become second nature to me. I love knitting and anything that has to do with it! I am like a kid in a candy store when I am in a yarn shop (online or real).

I hoard yarn and have many “projects” to work eventually. I love learning new techniques/stitches and at times create my own. I have tried other hobbies, crocheting, sewing, jewelry making, card making, but always come back to knitting. My next adventure will be Needle Felting.

CREAM DREAM MOBIUS LACE SCARF


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7760683


PRETTYCHEAPJEWELRY: What is your advice for home business with regards to expenses, inventories, and sales?

OHMAY: Start with what you already have available. Look for sales and if you can afford it, buy as much supplies on sale, as you can. Since I am a yarn addict, I have a huge supply and range of yarns to choose from; therefore I am free to create whenever an idea hits me.

Sell what you love to make and would use yourself. I am not a sock or hat person, so I do not have them in my shop. Maybe eventually, I’ll have baby items in my shop, but not yet!

FOR THE BLUES IPOD OR MP3 ARMPOCKET


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10849742


PRETTYCHEAPJEWELRY: How do you compete in the big world of knitters?

OHMAY: This is hard. Knitting was thought of as a “granny” hobby, a few years back, but is now exploding as the younger set and celebrities are picking it up. I try to create styles that are new and fresh, but not over the top weird. Functional and versatile is an important objective to my products. Most of the items in my shop can be worn/used in multiple ways and I like to think that the customer is getting their money worth when they buy my creations.


PRETTYCHEAPJEWELRY: Leave us with a quip, tip, quote, or puzzle to remember you by.

OHMAY: Create what you like and love what you do. Perfection is not necessary and can be boring. Do not feel disheartened if your “baby” does not sell right away, there is someone out there just looking to find and appreciate your hard work.

COCO BASKETWEAVE COLLECTION


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12399174


One last note from Ohmay: Free shipping for those purchases made by readers that make a note at checkout of this blog. Contact her prior to payment or she will refund the shipping charges via Paypal.

Wire wrapping requires supremely precise, yet hugely creative handwork. What a great combination! It appeals to my technical background and artistic endeavors. I aspire toward wire wrapping and admire those who do it well.

Designs by Marie Julie
Marie Julie is one of these crafters, and someone who has the confidence and experience to work exclusively with 14K gold and sterling silver wire. (NO mistakes here!) Come have a peek at her meticulous, beautiful designs.

CARMEL CANDY PENDANT 14K ROLLED GOLD WIRE


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9858045


PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: Many of the large stone nuggets (and cabachons) in your work have an 'organic' feeling. What quality do you look for in stone for your jewelry making?

MARIE JULIE: I am fascinated with what mother nature does and look for different rare stones and odd shapes that will make the final result interesting.

MALACHITE PEAR PENDANT


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8030505


BLACK ONYX BEAUTY


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_2&listing...


PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: How did you get started wire wrapping and is it a craft better self taught or learned with assistance?

MARIE JULIE: I have tried all types of crafts! Starting with beads and wire, I taught myself basic jewelry crafting. But realized that if I was going to create jewelry then I wanted to get away from costume work and concentrate on 14K gold and sterling silver wire to create pieces that could be used for years and handed down for generations.

In order to elevate to a fine craft level, I had to take courses. The more involved and difficult techniques are best not self taught and I am in the process of taking two classes to learn different methods.

PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: You're a grandma! Give my older readers your best tips about having a home business during retirement.

MARIE JULIE: After working for many years and being very busy, retirement was not what I thought it would be. There is only so much housework you can do and I needed to be creative for my own self esteem. Having a home business allows me to be creative and interact with others.

BLUE JEAN DAYS WITH DENIM LAPIS LAZULI


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12575672


NATIVE AMERICAN COUPLE WITH STALLION PORCELAIN CABACHON


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8016334


PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: Sales are tough and jewelry is competitive, especially on the internet (I know too!). Who is your target customer, what is your market, speaking as a non-professional salesperson.

MARIE JULIE: There are many crafters making similar types of jewelry. I have confidence in my work and try to be original. Also what sets me apart is the use of best quality materials and each resulting piece is a very fine item. People notice the difference!

I also wear my jewelry all the time. When someone remarks, I offer it for sale or give them a business card for future contact.

I know that not everyone can afford the price of high end jewelry so I have targeted upscale stores. And by making a variety I am able to offer pieces that are affordable to everyone.

PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: Leave us with something to remember you by, a quip/quote/tip/puzzle.

MARIE JULIE: So many times I hear someone say that they don’t know what to do. My motto is: ”Do Something! Even if it is wrong, don’t procrastinate.”

WINDS ON THE DESERT SAND PENDANT 14K ROLLED GOLD WIRE


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9844979

I think it was Vincent Van Gogh who sold but one painting while he was alive. With respect to making a living, choosing to be an artist must be one of the most difficult, yet rewarding, decisions to make in a lifetime. How does one take that leap into the big wide, unknown future? Read on to find out how another of my California Crafter’s Club of Etsy (CCCOE) colleagues did it.

LAURALI
Laura M. Iverson’s work first attracted me because of her frequent cat depictions! A full time artist in Northern California, she is prolific in producing painted oils, acrylics, and clay items.

GOLDEN FLOWERS IN MOONLIGHT - 5x5 INCH SQUARE FINE ART PRINT


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13091111


HOUSE WITH A BLUE DOOR – 8x10 FINE ART PRINT (GICLEE)


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6326326


SAN FRANCISCO BAY IN GOLDEN GLOW – 5x5 INCH SQUARE FINE ART PRINT


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6455781


PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: The two dominant features in your work are the vibrant and subtle coloring, as well as the light sources. How do you form these images in your imagination.

LAURALI: It's an organic process. I seldom sketch anything first. Some of the pieces come entirely from my mind. For others, I use reference photos of tree branches from my walks, or of the animals (a number of my animal models come from photos my etsy friends have sent of their pets). I start with the sun/moon, then build the glow, deepening to the base. I often have an idea of what I want to do with the canvas but I sometimes just start with the color and see what occurs to me.

STARGAZER LILY PENDANT ON CORD


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8823875


SEA DANCER IN PURPLE MOONLIGHT PENDANT ON CORD


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11247499


YELLOW SUNFLOWERS ON GREEN PENDANT ON CORD


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9274846


PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: Give us a little background of your education and artistic experience.

LAURALI: I did my first oil painting at 12. Although mostly self taught, I have an A.A. Degree in Fine Arts from West Valley College in Saratoga, CA. I am a second-generation artist. My father, Walter Sears Milnor (1936-2001), concentrated on painting large canvases of the California missions:

http://zenbreeze.com/wsm/wsm_list.htm

I started the zen series in 2004 with this piece: http://zenbreeze.com/store/falleaf.htm
Originally, they were just going to be autumn leaves then evolved into all sorts of colors and themes.

In 2007, I started making pendants from my paintings, using polymer clay. I start off with an image transfer of the painting, then hand-sculpt a unique piece around it.

PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: Making a full time living as a fine artist is almost an impossible dream. Do you agree or disagree?

LAURALI: Since 2000, it became increasingly harder due to the economy and general overall state of worry and depression in the US. Another problem plaguing us is copyright theft. Sweatshop theft decimated my eBay business and I know it has damaged other artists too.

Still, I feel that, if the election goes well this year, we may see a return to not only prosperity but more value of Art. Hopefully, the market will improve.

NEVERMORE – ORIGINAL SQUARE PAINTING


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10248693


SIAMESE CATS IN SPRING BLOSSOMS


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8059887


PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: What will you be doing in 5 years, 10 years.

LAURALI: This is the first time in my life I can devote myself to my art business (I've been a stay-at-home mom and my son just graduated high school). I hope to make a go of it, now that I can concentrate on it, and still be doing that in 10 years. It's very time consuming running an online business and, of necessity, I had to let opportunities slide.

PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: Leave us with a quip/quote/puzzle/tip to remember you by.

LAURALI:
I have lived on the lip of insanity
Wanting to know reasons
Knocking on a door, it opens
I have been knocking from the inside!
~Rumi

MOONLIGHT SONATA OVER CARMEL – ORIGINAL OIL PAINTING ON CANVAS


http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6223249

What could be better than a satisfying hobby that creates income? Here is an interview highlighting one member of the California Crafters Club on Etsy (CCCOE). We are a diverse and inspiring group of artists and entrepreneurs - please meet one of them!

Each of us has a webstore, small business experience and delightful creativity.

Lave Me! Soap Company
Not only is soap is something everyone can use, it makes a perfect gift for the person who has everything, men and women alike. Handmade soap is special! The scent fills a whole room, it lasts longer than commercial soap and is a little luxury to use in the shower.


FINALLY RELIEF EUCALYPTUS BARS

click for more detail
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12793360


PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: Tell me about your product.
LAVE ME SOAP CO: Lave-me! Soap Co, makes soaps that are delicious and nutritious for your skin. No detergents are used! I formulate my batches using the most luxurious recipes and ingredients containing good for you ingredients like olive oil, coconut oil, cocoa butter and shea butter. Add a dash of color, a splash of fragrance and you have a recipe for one incredible shower experience. And I personally make each batch.

PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: How did you learn your craft.
LAVE ME SOAP CO: I started out making soap like a typical soaper, ie buying a kit from the local craft store to make gift soaps for friends and family. I loved creating my own bars and the rest is ancient history. “Melt and pour” soaps were just the beginning, like my hand dipped cocoa and strawberry bars.

After reading and researching like a mad scientist, I dove head first into the old fashioned hot process and then into some cold processes. Basically I am self taught, but am fabulously grateful to those who gave advice and helped me a long with encouragement.

DOUBLE SHOT VANILLA, COCOA, AND COFFEE

click for more detail
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_1&listing_...


PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: What would you tell others about running a home based business.
LAVE ME SOAP CO: Making soaps and selling soaps are two different things all together. I am new to selling so am still in the home based business learning curve.

It takes passion, patience and promoting and more then anything, confidence in who you are and what you do to have a home based business.

Staying within your financial means is also a key to success. Keep good inventory records and track of every incoming and outgoing penny. Know that you will spend a lot of money before you figure out all tricks of the trade. I am really bad with keeping track of my sales and supplies expenses, so beware the messenger!

PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: Will Lave Me! Soap Co. be the same in 5 years, 10 years.
LAVE ME SOAP CO: The core being of Lave-me! Soap Co. will be the same every year. Where do I see it as a business? Well, I see myself helping customers at my very own B&M shop here in Los Angeles. Would you believe a magenta pink store with bubble chandeliers and soaps filling every square inch?!

My product line will grow to include signature yoga sprays, scrubs, body creams and everything else I can manage.

In ten years I will be franchised across the world spreading the word of Lave-me! Soap Co. where ever I roam. Think big!

I am a dreamer but within my dreams I see my happy reality.

SANDALWOOD BACHELOR BAR

click for more detail
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12959363

PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: Leave us with something to remember you by.
LAVE ME SOAP CO: "There is no life I know to compare with pure imagination. Living there, you'll be free if you truly wish to be." ~ my hero Willie Wonka

OATS AND BUTTER

click for more detail
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_2&listing_...

---------------------------------------
Lave Me! Soap Company extends this offer "15% off to readers of your blog. Percent back is refunded after payment is made or contact me at LaveMeSoapCo before payment for a revised invoice."

What could be better than a satisfying hobby that creates income? The members of the California Crafters Club on Etsy (CCCOE) sink time into handcrafting and offering products for sale. Each of us has a webstore, small business experience and delightful creativity.

We are a diverse and inspiring group of artists and entrepreneurs - please meet one of them!

Ocean Avenue Silks
Ocean Avenue Silks is a woman owned business, producing exquisite small luxuries on a budget wallet. You don’t have to go to Paris (like I did years ago) to choose an original hand dyed silk scarf. So save gas, relax and browse from your own town.

SILK SCARF IN SOFT PLUM

click for more detail
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11550514

PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: Tell me about your product.
OCEAN AVENUE SILKS: My company specializes in making hand painted silk scarves. Each scarf is painted one at a time and has its own unique characteristics.

It is a 3 step process to dye a scarf:

*Stretch the silk tightly on a frame.

*Painting. I use non-toxic DuPont dyes from France, a sponge brush, lots of water, and coarse kosher salt. The salt is actually what creates the patterning on the scarf.

*Steam set the dyes, which usually takes several hours.

My supplies come from Dharmatrading.com and their website has a wealth of information on fabric painting.

PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: How did you learn your craft.
OCEAN AVENUE SILKS: I stumbled into silk painting after a series of artistic jobs in the apparel field. Silk painting became a wonderful way to express my love of color. I love the process of painting on silk, how the colors combine so beautifully, the richness of the fabric.

I like to “go with the flow” and see what happens naturally with each scarf. A great philosophy for life too!

BANDANA SILK SCARF IN CHAMPAGNE

click for more detail
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9490099

PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: Would you tell others to start a homebased business.
OCEAN AVENUE SILKS: Creating and selling my scarves has been so rewarding that I would definitely encourage others to start a homebased business! With a caveat! Be realistic. It takes a lot of hard work to start a business, and may take a while to make a profit.

PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: Will Ocean Avenue Silks be the same in 5 years, 10 years.
OCEAN AVENUE SILKS: I am still in the early stages of having my own business, and there is so much for me to learn! A long term future goal is to have Ocean Avenue Silks be my main source of income but remain a home based business with one employee (me!).

Regardless of the year, customers should always feel that the scarf they are wearing was made just for them.

ROSE FLORAL SILK SCARF

click for more detail
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10020950

PRETTY CHEAP JEWELRY: Leave us with something to remember you by.
OCEAN AVENUE SILKS: Claude Monet rang true in this simple quote:
“Colour is my day-long obsession, joy and torment.”

BURNT ORANGE SILK SCARF

click for more detail
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12473196

---------------------------------------
And last but not least! "In honor of being the first featured member of CCCOE, I would like to offer Saving Advicer’s 10% off and free shipping on the purchase of any silk scarf! Put “Pretty Cheap Jewelry” in notes to seller at check-out and wait for a revised invoice."

BLUES AND YELLOWS SILK BANDANA

click for more detail
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10292438

SAPPHIRE SILK CHIFFON SCARF

click for more detail
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12463286

My brother (the geriatic psychology specialist) passed me this common $$ and sense article:

http://online.barrons.com/article/SB121401025091693871.html?...

Now if we could only recycle the years.

My kids are finally getting a little too old to thrift shop for clothes.

The 10-yo boy cannot wear thrift jeans anymore. There are few in his size or they are hopelessly torn. With the exception of checking the girl's section because he is a very slim, smaller than average size.

The 8-yo girl is still ok with the thrift but is getting a little more sophisticated and enjoys comparing/selecting new clothes now. I am happy to shop with her as it is time to learn/practice how to navigate the retail world.

Her summer shorts/coulottes (what they now call skorts) wardrobe was pretty worn out as most were from thrifts LAST year. Off we went to Target and Penney's...

Shorts and tops were marked down a little at Target. Shorts ~ $7 and Tanks ~ $4. We took 2 shorts. She noticed the stretchy bra/camisoles aisle and was interested. We discussed/tried on one 'bra' and she decided on one camisole instead ~ $7.

Target total ~ $21.

At Penneys the 'come on' was -buy 1 full price girl item, get one 88cents. The full price items of course were double what they should be ($25 for pants!). Most of the summer things were sale priced at $10 already.

It took lots of comparing and deciding. Three trips to the dressing room later we chose-
1 nice loose capris (price marked $25 but scanned at $5!)
1 leggings $16.99 (too high!)
1 jeans for 88c (since we took the leggings at full price)
1 khaki shorts $10

Penneys total $35

Number items both stores 7
Total spent both stores $60

So about $10 per item. This is not really a good deal imo. But happy to have quality time with little girl, start her learning/looking at retail clothes. She is skipping around in her new duds too

Surprises delight in all kinds of ways! First, take a look at the surprising re-use of a sparkling vintage rhinestone bracelet I remade into part of an elegant evening clutch.







Specially features: garnet colored jacquard designer sample fabric, fully lined, velcro closure, vintage one-of-a-kind rhinestone bracelet handle.

I am allowing special order only on this item at an introductory price HALF OFF before it sells at a summer festival. Get it now for $18.00 but hurry offer expires Sunday 6/22/08.

Email prettycheapjewelry@gmail.com or private message me here to arrange purchase through my shop Pretty Cheap Jewelry
http://www.prettycheapjewelry.com

Thanks and have a beautiful day.

Florence Nightengale founded the Elizabeth Arden cosmetic company, coined the term 'make over', and produced the first makeup containing no toxic ingredients.

From the 1930's through the 1960's, Elizabeth Arden was considered the most exclusive cosmetic brand, with celebrated clients such as Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth II, Marilyn Monroe, Jacqueline Kennedy, Marlene Dietrich, Joan Crawford, Wallis Simpson and Mamie Eisenhower. Read more at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elizabeth_Arden

Staying home, or near home for vacation because of gas prices?

Here is a fun, inexpensive, educational and all around wholesome thing to do this summer!

Letterboxing. Folks all over the country have placed little 'treasure' boxes outdoors in secret places and you are able to go on a treasure hunt to find them. The idea is to find the box, put a stamp or mark on the log in the box, and leave it for the next treasure seeker.

Go to the website to find hidden caches near you. The site gives an over view of the game, and a list of the letterboxes with clues on their whereabouts.

http://www.letterboxing.org

Some caches are easy! My 10-yr-old nabbed his first one yesterday. Some are more complicated and you might need a compass.



Letterboxing is similar to geocaching, a more sophisticated treasure hunt set up by those using GPS units.

We left a few trinkets in the box as well, ie a marble, eraser, etc. Have fun and good lettering!

Scored at Susies Deals - 9 things for about $35.50!

1 jeans capri
5 tops
1 sweatshirt
2 kids tops

my clothes budget is sooooo small, partly because I'll shop at the Thrift and pay full price at Susie's ocassionally ($5.99!). They have a website with locations if you want to go (mostly in the West).

http://www.susiesdeals.com

Anyone else notice the front page of the LA Times today?

Column One. This column is usually a special interest report and today it is about extremely high end retirement communities. "Paying in Gold for the Golden Years" about select places where you get a chaffeured Cadillac to shop for groceries, or a dog walker will take care of your mutt. Some resident is quoted about living on "a cruise ship without the water".

Then a little further down the front page...

Fame without Fortune. An article about how Ed McMahon, among other celebrities, are irresponsibly missing payments on homes, loans, etc. Failing to plan for the unfamous times no doubt.

Anyway, I haven't read either article in detail yet, and of course the news (and all media) are fairly subjective and incompletely unbiased.

I've noticed many conflicting stories like this in the newspaper, magazines lately. Might blog it more often.

Had time to read the whole thing. Additional portions of the articles:
The expensive communities are home to those like high retired government officials (cabinet members), retired prestigious college professors (Stanford), and the like. Assisted care and nursing care are extensions of the services. These are not really outrageous in perspective, some who planned for retirement well and have thousands in monthly dividend or pension income are very pleased with the arrangements.

The other article on the st*pid celebrities sums it up by explaining the mentality of fame obscures common sense and planning for the inevitable future fall is forgotten. Not to mention the agent, publicist, manager, and other stupid expenses the celebrity agrees to.

After months of distilling and exercising no cost internet marketing venues, I am pleased with these successes:

...my last mailing list post got almost 200 views (there's only 125 on the list so I know it got passed around a little)

...selected items in my shop have over 500 views (particularly ones that were part of a promotion)

...dozens of additional new contacts are being requested in my flickr (photo sharing) and twitter (networking) sites

But it is frustrating to see no new sales from all the buzz.

Patience, everyone's pocket money is going into their gas tanks.

I used the $10 for anything at JC Penney on a new shower curtain for the kids bathroom.

Glad to get a better, longer lasting one already marked down to about $16. Sorry it was just a quilted white fabric, not more wacky fun for a kids bath.

Also forgot the fabric curtains are best installed with a liner, so I purchased one for $4.

Hmmmm, spent about $20 plus tax, less the $10 coupon. Bleh, means it was $10 out of pocket.

I have sewed shower curtains and liners in the past, but didn't have time or motivation this time. Probably will do it next time since the replacement buys me a couple years.

And the old one? It is earmarked to move to the new weekend house (we are building in the country). A few weeks away from final approval! Another few weeks away from livability. The bath needs a shower curtain or we are not going to be getting clean!

The garlic was ready yesterday, enough to last months. A little broccoli too (no pic). Celery is going to seed (will probably harvest the seed).



Up next?
tomatoes
nectarines
apples
grapes

and a BIG sunflower my kid planted. Love that one and might do a whole row next summer.

Below is an entry I made on my mailing list group. It contains interesting info sent to me via email 'supposedly' originating from a refinery worker. Might be urban legend, but seems some elements might be truth. And probably contains enough thoughts to help with the cost of gas.

http://groups.google.com/group/prettycheapjewelrymailinglist...

The first tip is a ringer, must advise.

The LA Times reported yesterday of the rising popularity of the social shopping site Kaboodle.

I am going to give it a try; opening an account and making a little list of some of my items while keeping the sales pitch very light hearted.

Anyone else out there familiar with this site?

Have you heard of Twitter?
http://www.twitter.com

It sort of a sound bite blog site. You enter one or two sentences and others 'follow' you. Or you can 'follow' others. It seems originally meant for family and friends to keep in contact via text messages, or instant messaging (I don't do either).

If you do a search for 'bargain' or 'frugal' there are folks posting coupons and good stuff constantly (I follow a few).

Any tips on best use of this site for posting my small business greatly appreciated! I have been on it a couple days and am learning the ropes.

BTW, I am completely not responsible for any time sink on your part if you end up twittering.

A smart shopper picked up this item from my internet shop yesterday, marked 1/2 off!

Fringed Butterfly Pin




Other items are getting loads of views, so I must be doing something right

Sad News To Report

Please join me in remembering a great icon of the entertainment community. The Pillsbury Doughboy died yesterday of a yeast infection and trauma complications from repeated pokes in the belly. He was 71.

Doughboy was buried in a lightly greased coffin. Dozens of celebrities turned out to pay their respects, including Mrs. Butterworth, Hungry Jack, the California Raisins, Betty Crocker, the Hostess Twinkies, and Captain Crunch. The grave site was piled high with flours.

Aunt Jemima delivered the eulogy and lovingly described Doughboy as a man who never knew how much he was kneaded. Doughboy rose quickly in show business, but his later life was filled with turnovers. He was not considered a very smart cookie, wasting much of his dough on half-baked schemes. Despite being a little flaky at times he still was a crusty old man and was considered a positive roll model for millions.

Doughboy is survived by his wife Play Dough, two children, John Dough and Jane Dough, plus they had one in the oven. He is also survived by his elderly father, Pop Tart.

The funeral was held at 3:50 for about 20 minutes.

If this made you smile for even a brief second, please rise to the occasion and take time to pass it on and share that smile with someone else who may be having a crumby day and kneads it.

A young, hip design shopping site featured one of my items on their home page (see those white wedding style earrings on the big green leaf over there in the left margin?).

Nice to be noticed
http://wickedlychic.com

Am learning a new craft, wire wrapping. It appeals to the precision part of my technical brain.

After practicing using inexpensive wire of various weights, I bravely moved on to sterling silver and 14K gold filled wire. These are not terribly expensive, but there is hardly room for waste.

Inclined toward the classic and timeless simple design, this is my very favorite result:

Pure Class Pearl and Swarovski Crystal Ring


I wore it for a day and it was very comfortable! It is small, size 5.

With mixed feelings I put it for sale on my website Pretty Cheap Jewelry because if it sells I will never see it again. Of course it can be made again, but never exactly the same.

Next tool needed soon: a ring mandrel!

The news came out today that my kids' elementary school is NUMBER #1 in the State of California for test scores. It has been so for 6 YEARS RUNNING. There are 3 high schools in town and one of them scored NUMBER #1 in the state too.

If California were a country, it would be 6th largest in the world (as I've read somewhere based on $$, population or something).

So that just means my kids are UNDOUBTEDLY future world leaders.

Local news report details here:
http://www.kvta.com/content_page.php?pid=local_news

So why are we so hot?? It is not just money for sure. I am not by any means hugely upper middle class. We are a solid middle class neighborhood. Our ethnic diversity tends toward Caucasion, but is certainly heavily influenced by Central America. There are African American, Muslim, and Asian all present in our everyday life.

It is a magnet school to be sure, and a math magnet at that. Parental involvement is likely much more prevalent, but there are plenty of 2 working parent households, and everyone has their story!! (Volunteer out of the classroom, homeschoolers, you name it).

State testing just finished a week ago and 2008 scores are not out yet. But I am confident we are going to be tops again. Thanks for reading.

Tips from the Tehachapi Loop May 2008

Mosquito 'Spray' - Put a dryer sheet in your pocket to keep mosquitos away.

Static Cling 'Spray' - Pin a safety pin to the seam of a dress or pants to banish static cling.

Envelope Sleuth - Open a sealed envelope without a tear by freezing for an hour or two.

Ant Trap - Put small piles of cornmeal where you see ants for them to take back to the colony. It is indigestible to ants and they die. Great to try where you have dogs or kids who might otherwise touch pesticides.

Pizza Nerds - Reheat pizza slices in a non stick skillet on the stovetop. Keeps the crust crispy! Bye bye microwave.

Yesterday's Weed Killer - Place layers of overlapped wet newspaper under mulch around new outdoor plants. Weeds are not able to grow through.

Cake Queen - Whip storebought ready frosting to double the volume! Less calories, less sugar per serving.

Without dissecting the details, the underlying message rings true, dont'cha think?

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-7140193618475975826...

I am not a utubie by far, but this is too important to not share.

Recreational Equipment Inc., a mostly west coast sports supply retailer has a no questions asked return policy, incredible.

My husband happened to be in the Idaho store this past weekend (just for fun! he was way away from home) wearing the hiking boots he purchased from them over a year ago.

He mentioned to the sales person about the squeeze in the toe and that the boots never really fit great. The clerk encouraged him to return the boots right there. Sans receipt, worn for over a year.

Even my husband, Mr. Ruthless Return, was sheepish. But not that sheepish.

Up to the cash register, with the opening statement, "The sales person over there told me to do it..." and it was done. The year old transaction was instantly in the system. They took a return and he went over to find a better fit. And $9 later had brand new Vasque boots.

REI is a membership type place, no fee. You receive a check every summer in returned profit from the company. The check comes in the form of 'advance toward new items' or you can take it in cash soon after.

I joined this place many many years ago (think 25 or more) when they were way smaller. The Southern California population exploded in the 80s including a huge wave of outdoors enthusiasts (me too!).

This is one establishment, for some reason, which has not batted an eye in changing their culture in the wake of exponential expansion.

They are very worthwhile not just with merchandise. They do classes, charitable work, and environmental lobbying with out heavy handedness.

Check em out
http://www.rei.com

Since before there was such a thing as a blog, I paid attention to 'not driving' for a whole day. (It must be the environmentalist in me trying to win out.)

Yesterday was a no drive day. Naturally, this means more than it used to 15 years ago.

I love the idea of 'no spend' days, but they are a little second in priority behind the 'no drives'.

Here is a picture of the groceries I bought for $59.54 and this will easily feed my family of 4 for a week. Why? I cook, I'm creative with meals, I don't waste food. And there is ALWAYS something on special or marked down for fast sale.



What's in there?
-1 Big Flank Steak (to be used sliced thinly for BBQ steak sandwiches)
-1 Big Box frozen fish sticks (for kids meals, fish sandwiches, etc.)
-Package of turkey breakfast sausage
-fresh fruit: apples, bananas
-fresh vegetables: lettuce, carrots
-3 doz corn tortillas
-Cans and cans of hearty soup (8!)
-Cans and cans of Ravioli (4!)
-Cans and cans of fruit (3!)
-Boxes of pasta side dishes
-2 gallons of milk
-Bags and bags of frozen veges (3!)
-5 lb of whole wheat flour
-box of cereal
-Big bag of chips
-cream cheese
-Bag of cat food

and the 5 cups of yogurt aren't even showing.

So what's for lunch/dinner? with a few afterschool snacks thrown in:

BBQ steak sandwiches and french fries
Fish sticks and frozen corn and can fruit
Pasta side dish with tuna and salad
Ravioli and salad
Soup & salad
Smoothies (yogurt, banana)
Fish sandwiches with can fruit and salad
Quesidillas (I already have cheese) w/chips
Turkey sausage on pasta

and my cat gets to join in.

Yesterday was a work potluck (for May Day).

1 person brought pasta from Pizza Hut
1 person brought a large premade Cesear salad
1 person brought a bag of chips and premade artichoke dip
1 person brought a premade pie
1 person brought store bought brownies
1 person brought brie/blue cheese & crackers
1 person brought store bought cookies

This luncheon was planned 3 weeks ahead. There was plenty of time to budget for cooking and freezing a dish.

With all the news on higher grocery costs, I don't get it. What are they thinking? It is kind of a pet peeve of mine I guess, I like to cook. Even if you don't cook much how hard can it be to make an onion soup dip by hand?!

To be fair others brought:
Homemade muffin assortment (me)
Crock Pot vegetarian stew
Fruit Salad (a great choice for the non-cooks!!)

I'm off to the grocery store this morning. Sorry I don't see a huge price problem. A small price increase I suppose, but I:

Buy 'Day old' bread,
Use a $6 off coupon for $60 (pre coupon total)
Use a $3 off coupon for produce purchase
Use a $1 off coupon for Chef BoyRDee (my kids love)
Use a $1 coupon off store brand cereal
and many more

USPS prices are going up May 12, see here for info http://www.usps.com/prices

I had foolishly bought a book of 41 cent letter stamps a few weeks ago instead of the 'forever' stamp. Why? I picked out something pretty and forgot there was even a forever stamp.

Normally that's too many to use within a month or so and I was not happy looking forward to purchasing those pesky 1 or 2 cent stamps to make up the difference.

Without rushing anything, I just so happened to have 2 fairly light envelope packages to send out (one was a prize to a winner in my trivia contest at Pretty Cheap Jewelry and the other was a request for items from my sister).

Weighing the envelopes at the post office scale, it was karma that I had just the right number of stamps to cover the costs for each!

Yay! And I will not make the mistake forgetting to buy forever stamps anymore. Even though they are not as pretty.