Glitzy Gallery Gals Thoughts and Tips

FREE SHIPPING EVENT!

2009-11-22T16:43:00.002-05:00

GlitzyGalleryJewelry.com is having a FREE Shipping Event

The online store has also gotten a face lift with many new items up for sale.

Start your holiday shopping early and get in on this great deal!

It's official...I've started...

2009-10-27T22:18:00.003-04:00

Cosmetology School

Finally, a dream of mine has come true and I am having a blast.

Don't worry, Glitzy Gallery Jewelry and Glitzy Gallery Graphics are not going anywhere. They will always be a part of me.

Class has been interesting and definitely informative. There is so much information to learn and they cram it all in very quickly.

Day one was funny now that I look back on it. It is the same day one everyone has when they start something new. Everyone eying each other, sizing up competition or trying to figure out if they want to be friends with the person sitting next to them or the person sitting across the room. And then on day one, everyone is so nervous, no one really shares anything about themselves. Everyone guessing what each other is like, how old, married, single, nice?

Oh how 2 weeks makes a difference. Now you can't shut us all up. We probably know more about each other than our closest friends do. That is what 8 hours of sitting in a classroom does to you. Not complaining, but you all know it is true.

As the weeks melt away, we will all get even more comfortable. And then that one magic day, they will release us to work on humans. Realllllll humans.

Now let me tell you, I've been messing with hair for years now and decided that my family's circumstances finally would allow me to do it for real. No more sitting in the kitchen giving a hair cut. I can come out of the dark and cut in a salon. How exciting.

So wish me luck and I will let you know when my chair opens and I am ready for clients.

I promise I won't cut your ear.

Fall Mall Contest Is Over

2009-09-01T15:35:00.000-04:00

Winner will be tabulated over the course of the next few days and will be notified.

Thank you to all who have entered.

If you did not win...head on over to www.FallIntoMallSavingsMall.com to sign up before all the spaces fill.

Starting at only $7!

Fall Into Savings Mall GIVEAWAY

2009-08-18T19:16:00.003-04:00

And the Not So Bad, It's OK I Didn't Win the Grand Prize PRIZE: (Second place)
2 Weeks - Tile Ad Space
$13 Value

Head Over to the Fall Into Savings Mall to check it out

Get your business out there!
You don't win this package?
No problem, it only takes a few bucks to get your name out there!

All you need is an ad tile that is 125x125 pixels.
You don't have one? No problem.
Email me and I can design one starting at only $10!

Rules for giveaway:
Contest runs from August 18, 2009 until September 1, 2009, Noon PST

Ways to enter:
Receive one entry for each completed task below
Comment a separate post for each task you completed
EXAMPLE: You commented about your fave item and you blogged. That would be 2 comments.

1. Comment on here with your single favorite fall item - something that makes it feel like fall to you.

2. Blog & link this giveaway and provide the link to your post in your comment

3. Twitter & link this giveaway and provide the link to your tweet in your comment

4. Go to www.GlitzyGalleryJewelry.com and shop. Each item purchased will not only provide you an entry, but you will have all shipping and handling costs refunded to you within 48 hours.

5. Sign up for a Fall Into Savings Mall space and receive one entry for each week you have signed up and paid for

There you have it, 5 possible ways to enter.

No purchase necessary, however it will provide you with an additional entry.

Winner will be drawn on September 1, 2009
Winner will be notified through contact information left on comment and posted on this blog
Winner has 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen
All comments must include contact information or will not be counted

Please stop by the mall and check it out!

Email me for any questions you may have.

Good luck!

Have you ever locked yourself INSIDE a store?

2009-08-08T20:51:00.004-04:00

Please say you have, so I am not the only one who has ever done that!

I went to the UPS store today, where my mailbox is, to check my mail. They give you a key to the front door if you need to check your mail after hours.

This was my first and LAST time ever going into the store when there wasn't anyone in there working. I was alone.

Being in the hurry I am I also left my purse with my cell phone in the car. Are you guessing what happened next?

I unlock the front door, check my box, and then head back to the front door. There is a little lever that says push. So I push of course. And push again, and again. Nothing. The door is jammed locked and it isn't doing anything!!!! I haven't set into panic mode yet but I am quickly approaching as I think to myself how I will survive an entire night in the UPS store. I then realize that today is Saturday and they do not reopen until Monday. Panic starts to set in and I frantically keep hitting, now beating, the push button on the door.

I walk around the store to see if there is a phone somewhere. But who the heck am I going to call? Hello 9-1-1 I locked myself into the UPS store. Yeah right, like they would take that one seriously. I don't have anyone local to me that I memorized their phone numbers. So I look over through the gates they have surrounding the store area to see if there is a phone on the counter. I imagine myself sticking my arm through the gate or fashioning some sort of lasso out of my pants and shirt to get the phone near to me. Then I realize that it won't look good if I am half naked trying to break into the store part of UPS.

I try the door again just to make sure I am not having a "dork" moment and I still can't get out. Luckily some women came to ship some packages and didn't know about the new shorter summer hours so they were panicking with me. One lady took off to the super market to get help and then another lady finds a mail slot in the wall and sticks her hand through. At this point I am not really needing her hand, maybe if it had a candy bar attached to it, but other than that what am I supposed to do with her hand. And then she says in a magical mystical all knowing voice...hand me your keys.

So I hand them to her and she can't get them through the hole because my keys are bigger then the opening. After a few moves she drags them through and is able to get me out.

I breathe in some of the fresh air after being in captive for 4 minutes. Oh how it is good to be a free woman. I am definately never going to jail. I don't think I could make it more then three minutes tops.

What is the stupidest thing you have ever had happen to you in a store?

Fall Into Savings Mall NOW OPEN

2009-08-04T12:21:00.002-04:00

www.FallIntoSavingsMall.com

is open and ready for advertisers!

Promote your Etsy shop, blog, or website for as low as $7!

Promote a sale or special for only $2!

All the information is available at www.FallIntoSavingsMall.com click on an empty slot or the advertise link at the bottom of the page.

Get your spot now, before they are all gone. Will be sending out marketing in the form of emailing lists, blogging, cross promotion and so much more!

Email me if you have any questions.

Hope to see you there.

House Hunting and the Attack of the Birds

2009-07-31T11:46:00.003-04:00

I have been house hunting for the last few months. I am working on figuring out when it becomes pointless to search. Here is my equation so far...

Number of houses searched on the Internet 1,500
Number of houses seen in person 150
Number of houses bid on 15

Number of houses finally purchased ZERO

I think my math may be rusty because the numbers just don't work.

Although I am without a new house I have gained the knowledge of every available floor plan in the city. I am so good, that I can drive past a house and tell you where the kitchen is located, how many bedrooms and if it has an inside laundry room. Well maybe I'm not thaaaaaaaat good, but it sure seems like I've seen EVERYTHING!

Yesterday was another trip out with my wonderful realtor. She has been so patient in this entire process and we have laughed so much. Yesterday was a very entertaining day, as I laughed so much my cheeks hurt, yes the ones on my face....what were you thinking?

After going to many houses we stopped at what looked like promising prospect for a new abode. As the Realtor approached the front steps, an evil pigeon dive bombed her head and I think at that moment my Realtor had a mini heart attack. As she was panting from being spooked, I had to peal myself off the pavement from my rolling laughter. I know, I know, it was bad for me to laugh but you would have to if you would have been there.

As the day went on, and more houses passed we decided to call it an end to the day and head home. The Realtor must have had a past life as a bird, because all the birds in the local vicinity decided they wanted to attack her car when she was driving. Now that is not anything funny. You feel bad when a bird gets hit, but hey, it's not your fault they were flying with their eyes closed. The funny part was when the Realtor closed her eyes and ducked. Now remember, we are INSIDE the car and she is DRIVING. Again I was laughing so hard it hurt.

Have you ever been attacked by birds?

When the owner gets more exercise at the dog park...

2009-07-20T08:51:00.003-04:00

Took Chloe to the dog park in town here. First time around she did very well. I was the helicopter parent, always hovering and making sure she was okay.

We've never been to a dog park before, and Chloe has a habit of barking at any dog that just breathes near her. Surprisingly, she didn't bark. She was running around with the other dogs, sniffing all the little furry butts.

Yesterday, we were up pretty early and I took her again. Totally pointless, as she just sat on top of the picnic table the entire time.

I would run around the dog park trying to get her to follow me around. But no go. I was the one getting the exercise. I bet she was sitting on the picnic table thinking "stupid human."

I personally draw the line at sniffing any butts!

Are we there yet? Are we there yet?

2009-07-13T10:49:00.002-04:00

Yes...FINALLY.

Actually got in on Saturday around 3pm. Oh my gosh it was hot and still is. I happened to get in on the hottest day of the year. 114 degrees! Not fair.

Reached the apartment. Now remember this is the first opportunity for me to see this in person. Thank goodness I am not locked into a lease with a deposit. The place is nice enough to work for a temporary home but I am afraid that if I stay there any longer then a month I may be huddled in a dark corner having a melt down.

A few finer points of my new (temporary) home...

Comes complete with roommates...little crawly ones
Has it's own perfume...eu du smoker cat b.o. man
Complete with it's own fine film of dust to give it that aged look
And to show that this community is super safe, it includes a door that doesn't lock and a landlord that doesn't care to light a fire under his butt to get it fixed.
Forget having to visit the Grand Canyon, the mattress includes it's own version.

Enough about the apartment. We have driven around Arizona looking at houses and today we will meet up with the realtor to go inside a few. Fingers crossed that today is the day I find one.

We have met up with some family and friends who live here and that was super nice. Although I am starting this adventure on my own (and my little dog to), I feel like I have some great support here.

Off to go drive around for a bit before the sun is at it's hottest and threatens to melt my flip flops to the pavement.

Thank you to all the readers following my adventure. I promise I will try to post as often as possible, but my lovely furnished apartment does not include Internet, nor do I want to make the investment to get a hookup. I will be back soon....

What You Learn On The Road...

2009-07-10T19:29:00.004-04:00

But before we get to the list here is a review of some great photos from today...

This is the perfect way to pack. We so did it wrong...

Just what you want to see when you are ordering your Starbucks...

Started in Texas...

Ended up in Texas...

Do you know how large the state of Texas is? It is huge! Driving all day and we are still not all the way through. It got to the point that the GPS Garmin stopped telling us how many miles we had to go. Instead it just said Eternity in the corner of the screen.

In this long drive today, my mother and I have made a small list of what we learned while confined to a small space, in the hot sun together.

In no particular order...

1. When a billboard says Mobiloil on it, it is not pronounced Mobi Loil

2. The company web address www.sucasateam.com is not pronounced Suc As A Team

3. Do not put toothpaste on your face after using face scrub

4. When the GPS Garmin Nuvi with the up to date traffic reports has a picture of a small car upside down on it, doesn't mean the car is sleeping

5. One big wheeler (Mac truck) towing 3 of the same big wheelers does not mean they are all cuddling.

6. When the dog is anxious to get back into the car, she needs to wait until we have unloaded the boxes in her way or she will splat up against them and slowly slide back down.

7. Look down when walking in Texas, or you may kick a headless cockroach the size of a golf ball.

And finally...
If there is a line of cars in the middle of nowhere they probably all have a Garmin they are following.

Tomorrow is the big day. We arrive in Arizona...only after going all the way through New Mexico. Small hurdle but after Texas I feel like we can accomplish anything.

See you tomorrow....

I-Ten-Itis

2009-07-09T19:49:00.006-04:00

After 1 hitchhiker, 1 man walking on the side of I-10, and us playing the Alphabet game until I reached the letter M and giving up we have reached Texas.

We started off the morning with our trusty driver....

And this is the view I had for the entire 860 miles...(The dog was stored somewhere back there)

Before leaving my job yesterday for the last day, a Fernandina Beach Pirate gave me some pirate hats just in case we were to be taken over by the Pirates of I-10. We haven't had to use them yet, but we decided to try them on....

The doggy felt left out so we let her borrow my mother's hat.

This is how I felt before we started the trip...

This is what I look like now...

No matter how many times we stopped or where we drove we saw this. They must have been following us...Where they pirates?

Waiting for our Pizza to be delivered to the hotel....already been an hour. May have to put that pirate hat on and head over to the Pizza Hut to get our treasure. I am that hungry and I just may do it.

More to come tomorrow....

Blogging Across America

2009-07-09T05:03:00.002-04:00

Good morning everyone!

The time has come and I am moving across the country. Did you know that across the country really means ONE HECK OF A DRIVE?

2,000 miles to go and a sleepy butt to add. We have not yet left, and I writing this from my parent's house in Florida. Sunny, humid Florida. I am trading in the sand and surf for sand and cacti shaped like people. Really, you know you have looked at a cactus before and said to yourself that it looked like a person. Admit it.

I will miss Florida but most of all I will miss the people. My friends and people I have adopted as family.

So with all that said I am off. My mother, my dog and I are ready for our adventure. Lets hope we all get along so no one has been left behind at a rest stop.

Fun In The Sun Expo...Stop By

2009-05-22T13:35:00.004-04:00

Have you been stuck in the rainy dreary weather like me for the past 5 days?

It is time to break out and get some fresh air.

St. Mary's, GA is hosting the
Fun In The Sun Expo
Saturday, May 23rd from 9am to 9pm
Howard Gilman Memorial Park

Stop by my Glitzy Gallery Jewelry booth and mention that you saw my blog and receive 10% off your entire purchase!

Some new pieces will be added to this year's collection that are sure to be show stoppers. Stop by and take a look.

Can't wait to see you there!

Beach Walking and the Folks That Look Down

2009-05-02T09:24:00.003-04:00

I walked on the beach today...

I was talking to my husband the other night and decided it was time to get off my butt and start getting some exercise. My goal is to walk 5 miles in a week. That is a big accomplishment for me if I can keep up with it. Last week started and I managed to make my 5 miles by the skin of my teeth. By the way, my husband runs 50 miles a week minimum. Show off.

This morning I managed to roll out of bed and was on the beach walking by 7:20am. Unfortunately I have decided in order to reach my walking goal I need to leave Chloe, the dog, home. She is terrified of the beach and it just slows me down. I don't need the furball to keep me from my goal. Momma needs her butt to stop jiggling...so sorry pup you are staying home.

As I was saying, I reached the beach and decided I would walk until I couldn't walk anymore...forgetting I still have to walk back. As I walked on I noticed that fellow beach walkers were not to friendly today. It took a good mile until I even got someone to say good morning back to me. Did I smell or something?

So I trudged on seeing that most beach goers weren't even paying attention to the beautiful waves crashing in from the ocean...they were looking down at their feet trying to find sea shells. What a horrible way to spend your vacation at the beach. Someone may ask, "What did you see at the beach?" And their only response, "my feet". I then took it upon myself to save these unfortunate people from their doomed vacations and started tromping through the beds of sea shells. Mean I know, but someone has to do it.

Then as if it was someone from above's way of saying it was okay to be looking down, I happened to glance at a piece of sea glass. A big piece that has been nicely tumbled by the ocean and was placed on the beach just for me.

My attempt to stay looking at the ocean for the next 3 miles was sometimes thwarted by the need to find more sea glass. I had the gentle reminder of my treasure every time I walked a step and the piece of glass gently poked me in the chest. Where else was I supposed to store my treasure? The sports bra was the best idea at the time. Along with my key and cell phone. I was packing it full. This chest has to be good for something right? How about storage?

But honestly back to the walking part. I have generally been able to make it about 2.5 miles and today I made it 4.5 with the help of my husband who called while I was walking back. As we talked for about 30 minutes I walked past my beach exit. After realizing the sand was a bit deeper and didn't look familiar I had to double back adding more steps. Talk about an over achiever here. 4.5 miles in one day. Now I can take the rest of the week off right?

Tell me about the most interesting thing you ever found at the beach.

Northeast Florida Wedding Tips & Tricks

2009-04-01T15:38:00.004-04:00

I got married. Yippee. It's over now and I have all this information just floating around. Surely someone can use it. I sure could have during my planning process. Would have saved me a bunch of time.

Some of these tips may also help you even if you are not from the Northeast Florida area. I am all about saving money.

LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION

Location #1:
Heritage House Wedding Chapel
Kingsland, GA
They provide small indoor chapel or outdoor garden weddings for affordable prices. Decent place for the quick wedding but honestly it is on the corner of the block in a small residential neighborhood. I wouldn't recommend more than 50 people. They also do walk-ins...in case you are interested.http://www.marriageinformation.com/

Location #2:
Howard Gilman Memorial Park
St. Marys, GA
Absolutely beautiful! On the water with a white gazebo, white pergolas with picnic tables and also a stage area with stairs and the water as your background. All this surrounds a public park with a beautiful fountain. Super pretty and affordable. $300 ($200 refundable)
http://www.kingsbay.net/park/

Location #3:
North Hampton Lofton Creek Outpost
Fernandina Beach, FL
Set on the marsh with lovely decks all over. Includes a kitchen, bathroom and small screened in room. Newly built so it doesn't have that rundown look. You have to be a member of the neighborhood or find someone who is. Costs $125 ($100 refundable)

WEDDING DRESS:

The reason I put location before the dress is because if you have a very formal wedding spot you don't want to show up in a not so formal gown and the other way around.

Personally I got my dress at a David's Bridal clearance sale. Marked down to a third of the original price. And I didn't even have to put a stain on it. (I would NEVER do that lol) It was a little big but a wonderful friend of the family altered it for me. Otherwise David's Bridal was going to charge me $300 to alter it and would take 6 weeks. Rip off.

There are quite a few China based dress makers on eBay with excellent feedback. The average price of a custom made dress was around $175 including shipping. Took about 14 days to complete. This is a great option, however if you are on a time crunch or cannot find a seamstress local, I would not suggest going this route. Be prepared to make alterations once you get the dress just in case.

You have your location and now your dress...well and the groom

RENTALS (TABLES, CHAIRS, LINENS, ETC.)

I called, emailed and checked out every rental place I could imagine for tables, chairs and linens. Either they cost way more than if I wanted to buy the items or they didn't deliver. What bride wants to set up 100 chairs the day of her wedding or make her family do it? Not me.
Drum roll please....
Camden Party Rentals, in Kingsland, GA, took the show. Wonderful staff who is caring and kind. Their prices are super affordable. They also deliver and pickup anytime you need them to. She doesn't have a website but her number is (912) 576-6858

LET THEM EAT CAKE:

I will NOT suggest or name my cake lady, as I was very disappointed the leaning cake she provided us with. I was then disappointed in her unprofessionalism. Oh yeah and did I mention she put wagon wheels on the cake...not flowers. Shew that rant is over. Learn from my mistake.

Go with someone you trust, word of mouth isn't always the best.
You don't have to spend a ton of money on a cake that is to big for your party.
Depending on the way the cake is cut, you can get 75 pieces from a layer.
Try your local supermarket. They generally need a 14 day advance notice. Get the cake blank, just frosted, and decorate yourself with fresh flowers.
Get a cake serving set (knife and server) that you can use in everyday use. Avoid the bows and pearls on the handle. It makes it a disposable wedding favor.

FLOWERS

Supermarket Supermarket Supermarket
Better yet if you have a Publix near you go there. Flowers are $10 for 3 good size bouquets. We ended up purchasing about 12 bouquets of White Mums (the big ones), Carnations, Mini Carnations and for a few bucks extra 2 bouquets of white roses. With all the flowers and supplies to make 8 boutonnieres, 3 small bouquets and 1 large bridal bouquet was about $60. Get your bridal party together with the moms and grandmas, drink some wine, have some laughs and make your arrangements no more than 2 nights before. Place in water in the refrigerator.

CENTERPIECES and DECORATIONS

Think candles. Not flowers. It gets to expensive when you start adding flowers.
Tall, skinny glass candle holders with glass rocks in the bottom and a candle can be done for around $3. Get your supplies from the Dollar Trees wholesale supplier online.
Spend a few more bucks and get floating candles from ROSS department store. I had to dig but I found a 16 pack for $2. Tea candles are on sale at MICHAELS Craft store for $100 for $2.
Forget the toulle. It is a pain in the butt and a waste of money.

We purchased a ton of battery operated paper lanterns in white at the Dollar Tree. They make for good mood lighting...make sure you get good batteries.

We bought white twinkle Christmas lights right after Christmas. Got them for about a $1 per box. Use clear zipties. You can get a bag of them for $1.50 at Walmart.

TUX RENTAL

We used Men's Warehouse. I do NOT recommend them. To begin with they ordered the wrong size tux for my husband. Twice. He didn't get the correct one until the day of the wedding. The store manager also proceeded to inform my then soon to be husband that if the bride was not wearing white this was her second marriage or she was unpure. My husband looked down and saw he had on an ivory vest...not white. How could she say that to him? About me? My dress was Ivory and this is my first and only marriage and pure? what the heck who says that about someone?....Rant over. Brides you are so allowed to have a rant here and there. If you let it fester then you may just blow at the wedding. Who wants pieces of the bride everywhere?

So for tuxes, I have no idea. We had a bad experience.

HAIR

Again, go to someone you trust. I have a stylist that I absolutely adore. She has done my hair for the past 2 years and I totally trust her.

Don't just think that trendy salons can do your formal hairdo. Places like the Hair Cuttery or Supercuts also do them and at half the price. Go in for a pre run through a few weeks ahead of time. Bring your camera. Take photos. This will give you something to look at and also help your stylist remember what she did to your hair. They see a lot of heads, so help her to remember. I paid a total of $70 for both appointments. Not bad at all!

FAVORS

For about 30¢ a piece we made our favors. So easy and affordable.
Glass Magnets with loving sayings...
Love • Cherish • Laugh • Kiss

Get Photo Paper, Modgepodge, E600, small round magnets, and small glass rocks. All available online or at Michaels Craft Store or Walmart
Using your at home printer, print out words in fun fonts (nothing to scrolly) about half the size of the glass rock. Have fun, play with different background colors. We used turquoise since it was our wedding color.
Cute out the text. Put a glass rock/marble over one of the words flat side down to gauge the size to cut it.
Put a thin layer of Modgepodge on the text size of the words you just cut out.
Lie glass marble flat side down over the Modgepodged word. Press firmly to get air bubbles out. Allow to dry.
Put E600 on the back of the magnet and affix magnet to the back of the now glass marble and paper sandwich. Press firmly. Allow to dry. Use in well ventilated area. Super stink.
The Dollar Tree has toulle circles. Get some of those and some ribbon in your wedding color.
Put one magnet in the center of the tulle circle and gather at top. Tie with ribbon into a bow.
There are your favors.

MISCELLANEOUS THINGS

Have a drink that is dyed your wedding color. Like Turquoise lemonaide.
We were not able to do the unity candle ceremony since the wind was so gusty. Prepare for that. Maybe try the sand ceremony.
Suprise your husband by having the DJ play your man's favorite football teams fight song when you walk down the isle as husband and wife. (Make sure they play the correct one, unlike our DJ)
Dangle beads and jewels from your bouquets to make it unique.
Get a photo frame matting for your guests to sign. Kits are available at Michaels craft store.
Can't find the perfect cake topper? Do a monogram. I found mine on eBay for $7 and it is flat and pretty. We can keep it in our scrapbook.
Keep away from serving meat at your wedding to keep costs down. Try pastas.
Trade services for your services you need. For example, if you do web design offer to trade for the photography.
Don't forget about your wedding bands. Try www.infinitytungsten.com for the groom's ring. They run specials and we got his for $90. My band came from Sams Club. Cost $300 and is full of diamonds. Took 5 weeks to get it. Plan on having some time to wait.
Propaine patio heaters are wonderful if you are having an outdoor wedding and need some extra heat.

All in all, I hope this helps you frantic and not so frantic brides in planning your wedding. I hope to save you the headaches I got from not having this information. It is your day. Everyone will tell you that...along with their opinion of what YOUR day should be. Be strong, stand tall. Don't be rude, but remember not to let anyone tell you what you want. Be reasonable and flexible all at the same time. But don't let people walk on you. And the best thing of all, at the end of the day you will be married to the most wonderful man in the world. So have some fun and get some great pictures to remember it.

Oh Moving...What a Joy!

2009-03-21T16:07:00.006-04:00

I'm baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaack...
First off I would like to apologize for it being so long since my last post. So much has been going on including a wedding and now moving to a new place.

The wedding...
WONDERFUL! and beautiful. It did teach me a bit about myself and my need to learn to go with the flow a bit better. My new husband has taught me that and I thank him. After all the planning including me drawing out the floor plans, color schemes and centerpieces for the most perfect location ever (anal I know, thank you mother)...the weather man gets in his report. The forecast calls for rain, rain and more rain mixed with huge winds. Our northern friend Georgia was getting flooding and the storm was heading our way...for that Saturday, the day of the wedding.

What is a girl to do? Move the wedding the day before to a new location. With a tiny mention of the cost being 20 times what our original location cost (no kidding) and this location needing 12 people working 3 hours each and a truckload of cleaning supplies and a pressure washer, a best man forgetting the ring, a leaning cake and everything going wrong that could possibly go wrong...the wedding turned out beautiful. My old and new family and a slew of our friends banded together and got everything pulled together in time. And in the end of it all the most important thing about that night was me getting to marry the man of my dreams. All that bad stuff just melted away and we had a wonderful night together. I also got spanked with a saber, had a chicken pulled out from under my dress and danced in a conga line. Doesn't that happen at everyone else's weddings? And did I mention...not a drop of rain came from the sky. It was a beautiful night.

Fast forward a few weeks and our lease is up and it is time to move. The new place is absolutely awesome. It is so much better than the old one since it doesn't have the huge stairs to go up to get to it. That will be wonderful when it comes to walking the dog. I hope my legs look as wonderful at this place as they did at the old one. It is a great rental, close to the beach and newly remodeled. I am so excited. And then...I turn around from this computer and I see the boxes stacked to the ceiling.

I ask myself why the heck do I put myself through this. Moving sucks. The place rocks, but the process of moving downright sucks. I wouldn't have been able to do it all without the help of my family and friends again. I am so lucky to have these people in my life.

Rewind a day and you would find me unpacking some of the boxes last night and me being the smart person I am, decide that it would be fun to camp out in the new place, even though I don't have a bed yet. Floor? Ha, the floor can't bother me. I am made of steel and I have my favorite pillow. A quilt and my pillow should be juuuust fiiiine.

I am stupid. I am stupid. I am stupid. Let me repeat...I am stupid. Who sleeps on the floor voluntarily anymore...well except my husband but he is unique and says it helps his back. I still love him though. I have learned my lesson and won't be doing that again. 2am called for me remembering I had a new airbed in the closet and a battery operated pump. So in the weeee hours of the morning I attempted to open all this packaging, figure out which way the batteries go in the pump and to inflate this mattress. Let me fill you in that I was to tired to get up and turn on the light, so I used my cell phone as my flashlight. Smart cookie here. Right? Don't answer that. Realizing that the pump was sucking air out of the mattress instead of inflating it, I gave up and went back to the floor. Stupid pump, stupid pump, stupid pump.

So give me a few days and a bed to sleep in and I have a feeling after the boxes are gone I will have a renewed sense of myself and my creative juices will be flowing again. It has killed me not being able to pick up my beading supplies since Christmas. I am hoping to do a show with my beading buddy Heather in May and I cannot wait!

So hang tight. I will be back soon and giving you more things to laugh at with me.

Have a great weekend everyone. I am off to find out why my TV remote is hiding with my pajamas. That's what you get when everyone helps you pack. (I am still super thankful)

Tell me your moving funnies.

Free JEWELRY for Bridal/Wedding Help

2009-01-14T16:07:00.005-05:00

Calling all readers who can help with this wedding.

As you read the posts below you will find out that I am on a budget. A severe budget with only 6 or so weeks left to plan this wedding. Read below posts to be brought up to date on the reason for this short planning time frame.

I am a magician...I will pull a rabbit out of my hat...well more likely I WILL plan a wedding in 8 weeks and it will turn out nice. Or so I am hoping. There may be screaming, tears and blood but it will get done. And I will NOT turn into a bridezilla. I hate those women. Wow I sound like a bridezilla...honest I'm nice.

So back to how YOU can get FREE jewelry. I own a business called Glitzy Gallery (if you haven't figured that out yet). I create handmade jewelry at very affordable prices. Well your price is free. That is...if you can help me out.

I am in need of certain things for this wedding and ideas also to keep this budget down but still have an elegant wedding and reception. I am willing to purchase everything I can from online if that helps in giving tips.

Most everything has been delegated but there are a few things that I am still in need of...

Lose fresh flowers that are all white or ivory so I can make my bouquet and all the other bouquets and boutonnieres (1 bridal, 3 boutonnieres, 3 bridesmaid bouquets).
Disposable wedding cameras. Minimum of 5 preferably 10.
Wedding bubbles for 100. (not champaign green bottles)
Wedding favors for 100.
Photographer (I just need the pictures taken but also have the CD at the end. No prints. I am a graphic designer after all...anyone in for a bit of airbrushing?)
DJ (I know about the ipod CD thing but don't have anyone to man it).

Colors for wedding: Pool (David's Bridal version of Tiffany Blue or Turquoise), Black and White
Setting: Sunset wedding outdoors on decking overlooking marsh with white twinkle lights and candles everywhere. Reception semi formal outdoor with same as wedding decor but round tables placed on different decks for seating with candle centerpieces.
Date: I will snap the neck of the next person who asks. Can you tell that is a touchy subject? Honestly the military still hasn't released any information yet so fingers crossed we get something soon. We are figuring on early March.
Guests: 100 from all over
Location: Northeastern Florida

So back to what I need from you. I need information or physical goods/services for this wedding. If you offer goods/services I will trade you for gift certificates to www.GlitzyGallery.com good for Graphic Design or Jewelry.

As for information on how to keep this wedding affordable or a tip that points me in the right direction for the above mentioned items/services will get you an entry into a gift certificate for my shop. Valentine's Day is coming soon so this is the perfect time to have that extra gift certificate waiting.

There is no deadline. Well maybe there is...the week before the wedding. So I will let you know. There is at least 6 weeks so get those ideas in. You can also email me your ideas/photos/links to GlitzyGallery@yahoo.com or Keli@GlitzyGallery.com

Thank you everyone for your support and ideas. I really appreciate it.

Got The Dress...Now What?

2009-01-06T10:58:00.006-05:00

Saturday was spent with my mother, my future mother-in-law and my maid of honor. What troopers!

First stop was to a beautiful park on the water. I can't believe it only costs $200 to rent the gazebo and the other park areas all night. There is even a huge beautiful water fountain. My only concern is if we do get this spot that we have to worry about the weather and the wind coming off the water. They don't allow tents with stakes. Maybe duct tape?

Onto a more fun thing...the DRESS! Arrived at David's Bridal to find a million brides and a bunch of stressed out but still nice and accommodating Bridal Consultants. Being the anal, over organized person that I am (got that from my mom...hi mom) I provided my consultant with a list of product codes for dresses that I had looked up the night before. Go me! I ended up getting the total opposite of what I was looking for. Still much more beautiful than ever expected. Not to mention marked down from $800 to now $290. Woohoo go me. Still way more than I would have ever wanted to spend, but my troop and some strange lady in the shop all agreed I should by it. It took a lunch break and two electric lemonades from Chili's to calm the nerves and get the dress.

My mother helped me try on the dresses and to say the least I couldn't do it without her. We were laughing so hard. I walked out with the first one on and didn't know I had to put a slip on. Prior to this experience I didn't know they made them that floofy. So trudging back into the dressing room my mother, the good sport she is, managed to get the oversized, stuffed slip on under my already poofy dress. Next we needed to put my shoes on again and somehow the little nylon sockies you wear...um my dress ate one. We couldn't find it anywhere. After getting a replacement we found it clinging to my dress. Thankgoodness we found the sockie before the wedding.

About 5 dresses later, I think...I kinda lost count after all the sweating, tugging and laughing, I found my perfect dress. I will leave it at that since my fiance may read this. He has already quizzed me and his mother on the dress and all we have to say is, "The dress sure is beautiful for being purple." Hehehe.

The dress being as beautiful as it is, was one of a kind dress so I didn't have much options for sizing. It is my size, however a bit big in the bodice. Now the search for a seamstress is on. With the economy being as poor as it is, most of my options have closed now. Anyone live in North Florida who can sew a dress for an affordable price? Hey, it's worth asking, you never know.

I got a great veil and the slip online on eBay for a 10th of what they would have cost at David's Bridal. The veil they wanted to sell me was more then the dress. Can you believe that?

I would post links to photos, but again my fiance is nosey. He is in Army training right now so I have the entire house to myself to spread out wedding things. Woohoo.

After dragging my hurt feet and my tired group of women around, they agreed so kindly to go to Garden Ridge with me. (Craft, home warehouse store) We found tons of pillar candles for 75% off being Christmas candles, but hey they are white, you can't tell they are Christmas. Then all the bridal stuff was 50% off. So we got the aisle runner, invites, tulle and so much more for next to nothing. Now to figure out what to do with it all.

I will be needing some assistance dear readers on my table centerpieces. My attempt at gluing those glass pebbles to the sides of white pillar candles looked great until I stepped back and realized it looked like it belonged at a little kids birthday party with bubbles. Urg! So readers, please send me ideas or post links on some good table centerpieces involving pillar candles, turquoise and black.

Now onto something I found today. It brought a tear to my eye. OK, an uncontrollable sobbing. I am a military bride and although I have already got my dress I was in search of bridesmaid dresses for affordable prices. There was a link to bridesacrossamerica.com Please take a look at their site and donate what you can. This program gives dresses to brides engaged to an active military person who has been deployed or is going to be deployed. This is a GREAT program. It is already hard enough planning a wedding between training and deployment dates, so having a wedding dress provided is a wonderful thing!

The search for a tiara is now on....who knew weddings involved so many little things.

The Colors Have Been Chosen...That's about it!

2009-01-01T09:07:00.004-05:00

Thanks to the deployment it has been next to impossible to do anything related to this wedding.

I am a planner. I love to be organized. And until I have the dates we can have our wedding I can barely do anything. I pity the next person who innocently asks "When is the date?" I may just have to bite their heads off. So sorry in advance.

No really, I can actually get everything ready and pray that our location is not booked when the dates do come around. I will definitely be saving ALL receipts for any purchases.

A new friend of mine has offered to loan me her beautiful wedding dress. I may just take her up on that. After looking at a few of her online photos I think it super funny to have her posed in the backyard in her wedding dress holding an axe. I thought I was the only one with that type of humor. Oh yeah, they also have her holding a chain saw, just in case the axe doesn't work fast or efficiently enough. And then another one with her kissing a large plastic frog. I guess you do have to kiss a few frogs before you find your prince.

We have decided on our color to be Turquoise with the normal white and black. Being the creative person I am, I can't wait to get my hands on some white pillar candles and turquoise glass rocks. Craft time at the Murray house. Oh how I miss using a glue gun. This may be my calling.

Oh and to all of you who are considering renting your chairs and tables for an event for 100, well well get ready to pay an arm and a leg. $900 for 100 chairs and 13 round tables. Can't I buy them for that?

I have been doing a bit of my planning around one of my coworkers who has a great sense of humor like myself. By the time I received the quote for the chairs, rental location, cake and caterer I had come to the best conclusion of all....and she calls me tacky. Everyone brings their own chairs, lawn chairs acceptable. Especially the ones with the fold out foot rest. The old time ones that you have to ratchet back and forth to get them to the desired level. Then each guest/family would bring a covered dish for the reception. One problem is most of the guests are coming from out of town. I see that happening one of two ways....way one, food is cold and not to a temperature that would allow people to stay alive after eating or ....way two, I see a lot of supermarket stickers on prepackaged foods. Either way I guess it works with me. And for the cake...a tower of chocolate cake donuts from Dunkin Donuts. Hey this all works for me just fine. Do you think it is tacky?

Due to the quickness of this ceremony and the need to be ready at a moment notice...Saturday will be spent checking out some locations and then darting south to David's Bridal to check out some wedding dresses. And after that, a trip to the local craft store to check out pricing for centerpiece and wedding favor items. Any ideas for affordable wedding favors for 100 guests?

Anyone have a wedding checklist that isn't harder to figure out than a Rubik cube? I would sure appreciate the help.

I hope I haven't bored you as much as my dog. Because at the moment she is snoring. Yes snoring like a fat man with his mouth open. She has no manners.

I'm Getting Married!

2008-12-29T09:55:00.003-05:00

This Christmas goes down in history as the best one ever. Not only did I get a Wii Fit I got a Fiance. They are so close, I don't know which one is better. Not really, the Fiance is soooo much better.

My boyfriend, now fiance, decided to show up a day earlier then expected. And on that early day he proposed. So we are now getting married! So excited!!

To add to the wonderful holiday season we went on a cruise to the Bahamas over Christmas. The weather was perfect. Although the stores were all closed in the Bahamas for Christmas, we enjoyed the beach anyways. My fiance enjoyed the bottomless rum drinks more. And we both love our Ship on a Stick trophy we won for the scavenger hunt against the 9 year olds. lol.

After 5 days of being on the cruise boat I am feeling a bit of the rocking motion still. Wonder how long it will take for me to feel like I am off the boat. Also wondering why restaurants are expecting me to pay for my food now. Don't they know that food is free for you when you cruise? Or does that stop when you hit land?

With my fiance being in the military we are planning a wedding in about a month and a half. The last day of our trip was spent making lists and smoothing out the details before my fiance had to go back up to base.

So far we have decided on an outdoor wedding and our colors are Turquoise, Black and white. This wedding is definitely on a budget and short timeline. Two things that generally don't go together.

If anyone has any suggestions on how to make this process easier and more affordable please comment links and tips. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas!

Christmas Giveaway

2008-12-16T13:19:00.000-05:00

Joni Chadwell
You are my winner! Congratulations!
An email has been sent with directions.
Failure to respond within 3 days will result in a new winner being drawn.

Christmas Giveaway - Extra Special

2008-12-10T10:31:00.008-05:00

Starts: Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Ends: Tuesday, December 16, 2008 Noon EST

Enter to win this beautiful charm bracelet. Handmade by myself.
Perfect for the holiday season and perfect for year round wear.

Sizeable up to 8"
Made from hand selected glass beads and silver filigree charms
Retail: $28

Open to U.S. entries to ensure Christmas delivery

How I got my start:
"I remember when I was little I started a dream book. One that had all the business ideas I wanted to have when I got older. One was to travel the world and buy beads. Well I can't travel the world but I can make jewelry that is unique and affordable. So I guess my dream came true in a different way."

Something funny about my craft:
"I have a tendency to fling beads by accident. When I try to use the beading wire the little bead gets on the end and launches itself across the room...kinda like pole jumpers. That is why I prefer metal work."

The rules and how to win:
It is fun and simple.

1. Stop by my online shop here and take a look around.

2. Choose your favorite item. (And yes, these items are for sale, so feel free to do some shopping while browsing) - Free shipping event going on right now...FREE SHIPPING on orders placed before Dec. 17.

3. Come back here and comment this post with your favorite item.

4. Include a way to contact you - email or etsy name to convo (no contact info disqualifies your entry)

EXTRA WAYS TO GAIN MORE ENTRIES
1 EXTRA ENTRY PER TASK COMPLETED

1. Blog about my giveaway or post on your website. Send me an email Keli@GlitzyGallery.com with the website address.

2. Make a purchase from my online store between the contest dates. Put BLOGENTRY in the coupon section for an extra entry and a FREE gift.

3. If there are more then 100 entries I will give EVERYONE an addition entry.

4. Sign up for my e-mailing list that includes specials and coupon codes here.

Starts: Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Ends: Tuesday, December 16, 2008 Noon EST

Winner will be notified by method of contact left within 5 hours of contest end.
You must notify me by 7AM EST your contact info to guarantee delivery by Christmas.
I am not held responsible for delays due to mail carrier workload.
If the winner has not responded within 3 days the next winner will be notified and so on.

If you would like to participate in a future giveaway contact me at my email.

Morocco Shrine Christmas Craft Fair

2008-12-01T15:21:00.007-05:00

The set up for these events has now become a science that I have down pat. Everything gets packed into the SUV the night before and the totes are packed in the order of what I will need to unpack first. For example: table cloths go on the top of the totes. Duh...why did it take me 4 shows to figure that one out?

My friend Liza came up with this great idea to use a rolling suitcase for my items.

This helped so much and I was able to get rid of one plastic tote. The suitcase rolling behind me while I had a christmas tree under one arm and the purse under the other went very well. Saved me a trip. A long trip. Maybe not that long, but when you are carrying everything and all the other participants are wizzing past you with carts you secretly wish one of their wheels would pop off and go rolling so they could feel the pain you feel as you lug the tables on your back.

Setup was the night before. This being my first event that I left my displays overnight...I felt like a mother leaving her child at school for the first time. You hope no one messes with them and you are fully prepared to kick someone's butt if they do.

I returned the next morning to find everything the way I left it. Breathed a breath of relief and my mother and I began setting up the important stuff. The jewelry. Que the glowing light from above shining over the jewelry.

Me being the nerd I am, I decided to wear a santa hat.

Thank goodness I did. It was so cold in the building I feared my jewelry would have ice hanging from it.

This was my first use of my new 4ft prelit christmas tree. For some reason I thought 4 feet was a lot taller. I had a charlie brown tree. It worked out great. My mother decorated it and for the life of me I can't figure out why she put ornaments on the back of the tree...it was facing the wall. I had to pick on her about that one.

Things were severely slow the first day for all vendors. Shoppers didn't seem very happy and they didn't want to stop and chat. I remember quite a few of them would pick up their speed as they walked past my booth after I greeted them with a sincere good morning. I am not that scary. I wore my makeup. Sheesh.

Day one was also the day to test out the concession stand food. Every 15 minutes for 8 hours the announcer would come on over the loud speaker and announce that there was food to eat and they had the best hot dogs in the area.

As the announcements would come the announcer would tell everyone gradually how the hot dogs were the best in the city, then state then united states. It was funny if you paid attention to him. I did have one. It was pretty good. Not the best though.

Day two went a bit better. It seemed that shoppers were in a better mood and wanted to chit chat more. Also they wanted to purchase more. It was a way better day for everyone. I didn't scare any customers away. I think.

I was dissapointed to find out my booth neighbor did not make their items. They imported them from Indonesia. The way I found this out? I squinted real hard and saw the "made in indonesia sticker" The rules clearly stat you must handmake all your items.

Many other rules were broken also....no booth sharing, no canopies indoors and no sale signs. Things were not enforced and that made the event a bummer for me. I follow the rules. If you don't follow them I think you should be repremanded. Maybe make that person wear their underware on their heads? I think that would prevent anyone else from breaking the rules.

In my opinion the event was just out to make their money and that was it. Especially when almost every 5th booth out of 140 booths was jewelry. They said it was juried and limited on how many people were allowed per category but obviously their limit is high or they did not follow their guidelines. I will not be doing this event again.

I am excited though. I have another event this Saturday. More information is here. I am hoping this event goes better. This will be my last one of the year and I would like to go out with a bang. A good bang.

Please stop by and say hello. Also get a free promo pack from Artists from around the world.

Thank you...
Denice for sticking out two very long days and many trips to the car with the heavy heavy gear.

Heather for being our bouncer/muscle. If there was a light in our face she did not hesitate to take care of the situation.

To all the wonderful people I met at this event...customers and other event participants

And finally to all of the promo pack participants who sent me their samples and promo items. The packs went over well and you will be happy to know they made it into the hands of many people. I am sending lots of sales wishes your way. There will be another post on the blog about the participants and photos to go with also. Coming soon!

Thanksgiving Sale

2008-11-27T08:25:00.004-05:00

Everything Ships FREE Until Saturday
Anything else need to be said?
I think it explains itself.

Shop the SALE here

Mexican Gone Bad...(Not the way you are thinking)

2008-11-18T12:53:00.004-05:00

Today my mother and I carpooled to work. Generally on these days we treat ourselves out to lunch together.

Being the coupon queen that I am, I went on restaurant.com's website and purchased a gift certificate for a local Mexican restaurant. (mom and pops type) The gift certificate stated $10 off of $20 purchase plus 18% gratuity. I got this certificate with a coupon code for 60¢.

We arrived at the restaurant. After placing our drink orders I showed the waiter the gift certificate. This way he could call it into restaurant.com to validate it with enough time.

WRONG thing for me to do I guess. He got all huffy and took it to someone and started yelling in Spanish back and forth. They did not want to take it but in the end of it all they honored it...kinda.

Finally got our food.
1-Plain cheese quesadilla
1-Rice
1-Chicken and cheese quesadilla
1-Queso dip
2-Cokes

Food was good. Then came the bill. Then the food wasn't so good. They must have hid gold rice in my food because that is how much it cost.

Bill came to $32 plus a 20% gratuity. Not deserved. He was slow and kept forgetting about us. I don't mind tipping for great service.

There is no way the food cost that much. So I questioned the bill to the waiter. I asked if a plain cheese quesadilla cost the same at a chicken and cheese quesadilla - $9 each. He said yes. I said why. He said they were having money problems. What the heck, that is not my problem. You don't charge your customer more because you are having money problems.

After the tip and the gift certificate I still paid $28. I am fuming mad. Being in the customer service industry and an ex server myself I demand a certain level of customer service. If that makes me a bad person than I am real bad.

I get back to the office and decide that I am going to call the restaurant and speak to the manager. Now here is what will make you laugh....

I dial the number and a gentleman comes on. (Well I wouldn't call him a gentleman now).
I ask to speak to the manager in my calmest voice.
He says No. Just No.
So I say I am a customer (just in case he thinks I am a telemarketer or something) and I would like to speak to his manager.
He says No. Again with the No.
So I say sweetly, when will he be available to speak.
The guy puts the phone down and starts talking to other people about nothing to do with our conversation.
I hung up. Well more like I slammed the phone down and the building must have shook from the impact.

They better believe that I will be getting in touch with the owner now. This is unacceptable.

So I called my mother to tell her I had gotten nowhere on this with the manager. She just laughed. That kind of laugh like, I know you just fell down three flights of stairs and broke your nose but it was still funny kind of laugh.

We both wondered what the world would be like if you called someplace for customer service and all you got was a No.

Re-GRAND OPENING of WEBSITE

2008-11-12T13:32:00.004-05:00

www.GlitzyGallery.com
has received a face lift, botox and a tummy tuck.

The introduction page is now a lot easier to navigate. It allows the customer/viewer to choose the path they desire instead of wandering aimlessly around my website trying to find what they are looking for. (And hopefully what they are looking for is my services or jewelry...both rock to.)

Glitzy Gallery Jewelry was fun to design. I was able to add a lot of fun features, including the Online Support function. So if you stop by the shop and I am online, please say hello. Also if you ever have any questions on anything on my website please use the contact link or send me a message through the online support.

Still trying to get the hang of the photos. Taking pictures for my Etsy shop wasn't a problem except I had to sit outside on the sidewalk with a white Pyrex dish to take the pictures. I got some weird looks from my other condo neighbors. Plus a pain the neck. So I decided to make my own light box using a tutorial from somewhere on the web (I can't remember). The first photo was GREAT! Then all of a sudden they all turned pink. Any suggestions....

Also, I will be taking all the shop inventory with me for my show on the 22nd and 23rd. If you see something you like, it is best to get it now or it may be gone. Actually there is a good chance it will be gone. I generally sell most of my inventory at the shows.

Sign up for the mailing list to receive once monthly coupons and special deals.
There will be awesome specials going on the day after Thanksgiving!!!

Now back to the website

The graphic design side of the website turned out better than expected. It has all the information anyone needs to know about my services. I truly enjoy designing websites the most when it comes to my design work. With business cards and print work I never get to see the final product.

Please stop by and comment here what you think. Click on the photos to be taken to the website. The site is best viewed through FireFox. I would really appreciate your feedback.

Cell Phone Diary - November 4th, 2008

2008-11-04T10:39:00.004-05:00

I am introducing something new to the blog today...

CELL PHONE DIARY

So I saw something interesting yesterday and just had to have a photo. I dug out the cell phone. Got it all ready to take a photo and bam, the memory was full. I was waiting for this day. I have had the phone for about a year now and take tonnnnns of photos. I never clean them off. So last night I decided to take a trip down memory lane. I will be sharing photos and the stories behind them over the next few weeks.

Dear Diary...

This was on mother's day this past year. I took my mother out to breakfast at Denny's. Get it her name is Deni. Oh OK it is funny to us.

When we got out of the car we saw something strapped to the top of this SUV. As I got closer I noticed it was a child seat. This thing is duct taped to the rooftop.

Makes me wonder if this is where they make the kid ride when he is bad or if this is there as a threat to their child to make him behave. I would behave if I were the kid. "Johnny don't stick pickles in your sister's ear or you have to ride on the roof again."

Scariest Thing Of All...The Office Candy Dish

2008-11-03T11:03:00.004-05:00

As a child you wonder where things go, like...
Your fish when it dies. After the flush where does it go?
Your teeth when they fall out. What does the tooth faerie really do with them?

Now as an adult you still wonder where things go, like...
Your paycheck.
Your slender body.
Your ability to go an entire day without any pains in your back.

Well I have found something out.
I now know where all the unwanted Halloween candy goes after the big day.

TO THE OFFICE CANDY DISH

I know I personally did not get a single trick-or-treater. None. Zip. I was so disappointed. I even dressed up as the scariest thing of all. Me without any makeup on. Hahaha get it? Oh you know it is funny.

So where did the candy go? Into the office candy dish. I snuck into the office, in the middle of the night. Wearing my black sweatpants and hoody. Black paint swiped on my cheeks and a flashlight in my hand. After all I didn't want to be blamed for bringing in the candy. Well not really. I brought it in before anyone got to the office yesterday.

But honestly, isn't there this stigma surrounding the office candy dish. As folks fill their hands with bite sized chocolate bars, they walk away from the bowl saying...who brought this in. It is never, thank you for bringing in this candy. It is more like, he/she who brings in the chocolate bars is now to blame for wrecking my diet today. It is all their fault. Thank you very much. I know I personally think that after my third snicker mini.

So what brought up this post? Well the fact that another bag of candy has popped up on the counter. And no one knows who did it. No one is fessing up either. Hmmmm the search is on. I bet it is the one person in the office who isn't eating ANY candy at all......

Where Candy Corn Comes From...

2008-10-28T08:53:00.004-04:00

This is not for you pansies that can't handle a little gore or should I say toe jam?

As a child I enjoyed munching on these delightful orange, yellow and white triangle candies. Mom and I would often stick them in our teeth to be vampires or a walrus. Oh OK I still do this at the age of 24. And she still does it at the age of well that would be mean for me to tell. But don't tell her I told you this. Thanks.

My mother and I try to carpool at least once a week and this week she brought to my attention, with proof, where Candy Corn comes from.

Brace yourself...I think she needs a pedicure...don't you?

Picture from papercards.com

Where have all my favorite foods gone?

2008-10-20T16:48:00.006-04:00

REWARD

If you can find these foods and I can order them.....

Lets start off with my childhood favorite

Polski Wyrob Polish Pickles
made by Milwaukee Pickles

All through my high school years I fell in love. In love with a pickle. Yes, I know that is weird. I have accepted it. Take it or leave it.

These pickles were plucked up by me at the local Piggly Wiggly, Pick N Save or Kohl's food stores. At a little over $1.50 a jar I was very pleased. Some dinners would consist of this fine food. Yes, I know this is weird to. And not the best nutritional value for a meal, but hey, I was in high school.

9 years later and I have had this intense craving for my good friend the polish pickle. Nothing can compete with the tangy, salty, vinegar, crisp taste of this pickle.

Recently a friend of mine was teaching a class in Milwaukee, Wisconsin (where I used to live and horde all these pickles). As she was visiting up there she was kind enough to stop off at a few grocery stores to pick me up a jar. Little did we know, but we know now, the manufacturer stopped making this pickle. I have searched and searched online and there are even online groups dedicated to finding this pickle. So I am happy to say, I am not the only one addicted.

Next on the list...
Clamato Chips

Yes, I know the idea of clam chips does not sound good. But, honestly these taste more like a tangy lime tomato chip. Super salty and garlicky. And super super super good. Can you tell I didn't do to well in English class. My descriptive vocabulary is very limited.

I was walking through the Super Walmart last year and eyed these tomato looking chips. Now, anyone who knows me, knows that I love tomatoes and the idea that a chip could taste like one, well that would be HEAVEN.

I snagged a few of these bags and set off for home. I tried to be a good girl and only have half a bag (these are small bags) (yes uh huh they are to small). But, I couldn't. I just couldn't stop. An entire bag later and I was satisfied. Oh so good!

Every Super Walmart outing later I would purchase 3 bags at $1 each and have them as often as I could.

Then the unthinkable happened. Just a few months after my discovery of this item and it was no longer at the store. I gave it a few weeks thinking they were out of the item because of course this was the best chip EVER and there must be a lot of other addicts out there.

I WAS WRONG! They closed down the manufacturing plant and stopped producing this product. I wore black for weeks. Well not really, but it was sad nonetheless.

This is my public plea to have my pickles and chips back in my life. If you know of anyone who has these items....please get them...all of them. Do whatever it takes. (Well, keep it legal).

Winner of the MID MONTH GIVEAWAY - OCTOBER

2008-10-20T13:05:00.000-04:00

jenscloset

You are the winner of the mid month giveaway!

I have emailed you the next step.
You have 3 days to contact me back.

If no response is received, then the next person in line will have a chance to win!

October MID MONTH GIVEAWAY!

2008-10-10T12:02:00.005-04:00

MID MONTH GIVEAWAY!
Starts: Friday, October 10, 2008
Ends: Monday, October 20, 2008 Noon EST

Enter today to win a Hand Printed Peacock Shirt!
Rib collar; blind-stitched sleeve and bottom hems; side seams; tapered waist. Wash in cold water, dry on low heat.

•Perfect fit
•100% combed ringspun jersey cotton
•Garment dyed and washed
•No shrinkage

Colors: Shady Navy
Size: Medium

Open to U.S. and international

The artist:
Danielle Campbell

The shop & blog:
It's Sew Me
The website here
The etsy shop here

How Danielle got her start:
"I have always loved to sew, but really got into my current addiction about 4 months ago after I was diagnosed with MS. It is a great outlet."

Something funny about her craft:
"My 16 month old loves to climb up on the table while I am sewing...He loves to poke around my sewing machine and take my spools of thread and unravel them."

The person who wins this giveaway will also be given 1 week FREE on the Etsy Banner Mall. This may be used by the winner or given as a gift. Banner will be posted in the Mall starting October 20th, 2008.

The rules and how to win:
It is fun and simple.

1. Stop by the Artist's shop here and take a look around.

2. Choose your favorite item. (And yes, these items are for sale, so feel free to do some shopping while browsing)

3. Come back here and comment this post with your favorite item.

4. Include a way to contact you - email or etsy name to convo

Contest ends at Noon on Monday, October 20, 2008.
Your entry will not be counted, if there is no contact information.

Winner will be notified by method of contact left within 24 hours of contest end.
Winner must respond with mailing information and Etsy Banner Mall information within 3 days of notification. If no response is made, the next random winner will be notified.

Come back here the second Friday of each month to see what new Artist is featured and what they are giving away!

If you would like to participate in a future giveaway contact me at my email or on etsy through convo .

Rock Shrimp Festival & Promo Packs Went GREAT!

2008-10-06T14:12:00.015-04:00

The Rock Shrimp Festival in St. Mary's Georgia went over great this past weekend.

Read on to find out about the magic moon stones and mentos rocks...

Although I can't stomach the thought of eating something that you have to take the head off and the veins, the little creature has a festival all around him.

My good friend Heather and I were the first to arrive at 5:30am. We began to set up in the light of the street lamp and a lantern. It was so exciting. The air was wet and cool. The bugs were not yet out. But oh how they came out later.

Set up went seamless and we had plenty of time. Unlike our neighbors to the left of us, a political booth, who came late to set up the tent and then left. Came back hours later and then also left early. That upset me. These committees who run these events put rules in place to help the event be professional and seamless as possible. This tent was not the only one who did this.

Besides that, the greatest thing was being put next to a booth for a mom's group. They were selling baked goods for get this...only 50 cents each. Of course I bought stuff. And as the day progressed they lowered their prices. 4 items for $1!!! And I bought some more. Good thing I am not on a diet. The brownie was the best one I have ever had!

Back to our booth. Heather from Adagio Beadcrafters and I split the booth right down the middle as you can see by our color scheme. It worked out nicely and Heather is a blast to spend time with. She is so sweet I think she was the one attracting the bugs. They got so bad. My arms looks like tiny welts today. We were doing that "you gotta bug in your pants" dance for most of the morning and then again that night. Kinda funny now that I look back at it.

Tons of people! Can't believe how many folks showed up. Heather and I managed to hang out pretty much all of our business cards so that was good exposure for each of us.

Heather had those glass rocks that you can get from Walmart for a few bucks on her display. People were so interested in them. We started to say they were Magic Moon Rocks and they were $100 each. Some people actually looked like they believed us?!?!

I found these great "bag fillers" at Target that were white and looked like mentos. Now I did find them in the wedding favors section and wasn't entirely sure they were not candy. So when I poured them out into my displays I did lick one and then bit one. But don't tell anyone, k? They are rocks or something solid, definately not candy. So tip: don't bite or lick your displays.

The most interesting booth was the biker men and women doing the children's face painting. I wish I would have gotten a photo. I will paint the picture for you. Now close your eyes...wait don't close them, you won't be able to read this. Tall, hairy faced, leather jacketed, tattooed burly men sitting on folding chairs with tiny children sitting in front of them getting butterflies on their cheeks. Can you see it. It was so cute. They do have a tender side after all.

Now on to the promo packets.

Wonderful artists from all around the United States sent me business cards and samples promoting their businesses.

I then took these items and made magazine recycled envelopes and stuffed them full! They got their own special table and sign at the fair and they were gone by lunch! At first they got some confused looks but once they realized what they were, they were gone and FAST!

Thank you to the artists who participated!

This event was a blast to do. Tired and bug bitten, Heather and I poured ourselves into the car for the drive home. We both pretty much passed out that night sleeping like logs. Wow, who knew a craft booth would be so exhausting?

After each event I like to put at least 5 things I learned to help other artists when they have their own events...
1. Bring bug spray even if it is not that time of year
2. Bring sunscreen, I now have a red neck
3. Don't spend all my money at the bake sale
4. Check the weather and don't wear long pants when it is 80º outside
5. When accepting credit cards, if the amount is huge process it on the spot if you are able to. Being out a huge amount of money is not fun at all. But I guess I learned. I hope no one else has to learn the same way.

Hope to see you at the next event...
November 22 & 23 • Jacksonville, FL Shriner Christmas Craft Show

I have been TAGGED!

2008-10-02T17:57:00.002-04:00

I have been tagged!

I got tagged by Three Loud Kids!!!

1. Link to your tagger and list these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog - some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blog.
4. Let them know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

Here are 7 random facts about me:
-My second toe is longer than my big toe
-I love blank paper of all colors
-I have 2 bellybutton piercings
-My tattoo is so bad you can't tell what it is
-I sneeze at least 60 times a day (no kidding)
-My favorite place in the world is Arizona
-My favorite tip I learned from my wise mother: If making a baked potato in your microwave...press the potato button to cook it (even if there is no button) - Guess you had to be there.

Alright Here are the 7 people that I am tagging!
- Red Marionette
- Designing Hilary
- Life Is Like Champagne
- Originals By Terri
- The Adventures of BB Bellezza
- Twenty Pound Tabby
- Aroma Fields Candles & Bath

OCTOBER, OCTOBER, OCTOBER!

2008-10-02T09:20:00.010-04:00

IT IS FINALLY HERE!

The most wonderful time of the year.....(get that Christmas toon out of your head, this is FALL)

I am from the North (WI) and am now in the South (FL). As much as I love the beaches and the palm trees, there is nothing that can compare to October in the North.

I desperately am in need of my northern fix. Maybe not as far north as WI, but more north than Florida. I need changing leaves, candy corn, pumpkin patches and pumpkin spice candles.

Let me elaborate on each...

Changing Leaves

I don't want to see subdivision trees change. I want good old mountains with tons of tree tops turning beautiful oranges, reds and yellows. None of this palm tree crud. I do know someone here in Florida who has actually found a website that allows you to watch the leaves change LIVE. Um, hmm, as much as I like the pretty trees, I don't think you can get me to sit in front of that computer monitor to watch them "gradually" change. You might just find me with the markers coloring the monitor screen trying to hurry the process.

Candy Corn

Brach's Candy Corn is the only way to go. Sure you can go to the dollar store and stock up on the off brand, but it doesn't compare to the Brach's. As much as I like the candy corn, I am a candy pumpkin addict. I have been known to polish off an entire bag in one sitting. Of course I then gained 5 pounds and my teeth have turned orange. The other downside is I think my head started to resemble the shape of the pumpkin. Hmmm, food for thought.

Pumpkin Patches

Oh no no no, I can't believe the sorry excuses for Pumpkin Patches down here. Up north you get the hay rides, apply cider, candy apples and haunted houses. Maybe I haven't looked hard enough, but the vinyl banner stating "Pumpkin Patch" hanging on the outside of a tent on the corner of the interstate does not make it a true pumpkin patch. It is a pumpkin shop my friends. One that charges by the pound. How mean is that? I can afford a 1 pound pumpkin and that is it. These "pumpking patches" are false advertising and I think it should be punishable with forcing the owners to eat 50 bags of candy corn with no water in one sitting. Ha, who is laughing now.

And finally Pumpkin Spice Candles

Where oh where have the good ones gone? Oh where oh where can they be? I have one that is 3 years old and is reserved for this time of year. It is almost gone! I will miss it so. I have tried to find it again but they have seemed to of changed their blend of the smells. Everything is becoming so cheaply made and quality is hard to find. So you suggest the Internet? How am I supposed to buy a candle online? Does someone have a scratch and sniff monitor I don't know about it. Please mail it to me. I will return it when I am done. How about I give you a free pair of earrings in exchange?

Well that is my rant on the Fall season. I guess I will just have to stare at my monitor to watch the leaves turn colors and eat a bunch of candy pumpkins so I can use my head for a jack o lantern since the stupid pumpkin farms are liars.

Have any other suggestions?

Glitzy Gallery Mailing List Is Finally Out!

2008-09-27T09:21:00.005-04:00

A work in progress is done! Woop woop.

The Glitzy Gallery Mailing List is finally complete.

Monthly Giveaways, Coupon Codes, Event Updates and Product Specials

If you would like to join the mailing list (you may opt out at anytime)
Click Here

Chuckle For The Day - Thumb Stuck in a Happy Meal

2008-09-23T16:57:00.004-04:00

When A Happy Meal Turns On You...

Ever get your thumb stuck in a Happy Meal? I am guessing the answer is no. Most things only happen to me.

So lunch today was spent rushing to find some fast food before I had to be at my very last acupuncture appointment. By the way, when the acupuncturist says "Holy Mother of God" during a treatment, it should put up a red flag. But that is another story.

The line looked small at the McDonald's so I took the U-turn and headed into the holy grail of greasy food.

Being the type of person I am (and by type of person, I mean I eat like a picky 6 year old) I ordered my Chicken Nugget Happy Meal.

I was rushing to get to my appointment and was eating my nuggets praying I didn't drop any bbq sauce on my favorite white shirt. Shew I made it without any stains. (And you thought I was going to say I didn't make it - ha I showed you)

I get to the acupuncture office and it isn't open yet so I finish eating my meal as fast as I can. And don't you know, they didn't include any napkins.

I finish up eating and am trying to shove all the garbage back into the little box with the golden arches when it caves in and takes my thumb with it. MY THUMB WAS STUCK! Now, I am normally not a panicky person but for some reason I really think the box was getting tighter and tighter around my thumb. My life flashed before my eyes and I saw my tombstone.

Well, as you see I survived. I want to be a poster child oops woman for this kind of thing. You should be careful with your Happy Meal box. You never know when it will turn on you.

Fiesta was moooeeee funnnoooo

2008-09-21T17:18:00.017-04:00

OK, so I need to brush up on my Spanish. I know. But you get what I mean.

This fiesta was so much fun! Setup began at 8am and the Fiesta started at 11am. Who knew I would need all three hours to setup? But we did it, and I am very pleased with the way everything turned out. My mother was a great helper and a trooper for sticking it out until 9pm. I am bribing her with jewelry. Shhhhhhh. My family and friends all stopped by and it felt good to have all of their support.

Me in my booth with my lovely banner

So everyone who is near me, including the Etsy community, knows that I have had the toughest time getting a banner made. Let's just say my original printer (big company) fell through and decided they were not going to provide me the product in the time they promised.

Thank goodness for WilsonGraphics on Etsy. (Also has a website) I put an alchemy request on Etsy for a banner to be here in less than a week. And he had it in the mail in two days! The quality is excellent and he replied to all my emails super fast. I highly recommend him and will be using him for my other banner needs in the future!

I think the fresh flowers helped a lot. Having the color pop off of the black was great and they were so pretty. Plus I get to have fresh flowers on my desk for the next few days. BONUS! Only problem was the wind monster kept visiting and it blew over the tall vase three times spilling water on everything. Easily fixable. Have to figure out how to make that not happen. I NEED flowers.

The displays were made by my father the carpenter handyman superhero. No he doesn't wear his underwear on the outside of his pants. Well I hope not at least. They were great. Heavy duty so they didn't blow over when the wind would blow. Well almost. The earring stand ended up needing a basket of rocks behind it and we tied it to the pole with the electric cord.

I did discover that when the wind would blow, sand would come with it. Black tablecloths show sand very well! Thank goodness for lint rollers. One customer said I shouldn't even bother and that I should put sand on my tables on purpose. How funny! We started joking saying we could build sand castles and put sea shells out. I draw the line at sand crabs.

I held a drawing for a beautiful pair of sterling silver charm earrings. Got a lot of responses and can't wait to see how many people have signed up for my mailing list. I called the winner today and she was so excited. Made me fell good. And I remember joking with her about the way you fold your entry makes a difference. I showed her my technique. (I can't share that with you, it is a secret. Come to my show and ask me to show you). And to keep things fair, I didn't draw it. We shook the bag up real good and my fairy nieceee drew the name out with her eyes closed. Guess the fold worked!

I was so pleased with the crowd and how friendly everyone was. A woman, towards the end of the night, stopped in and had to let me know that she thought my items were just beautiful and that I am very talented. Even though she didn't buy anything, that meant a lot to me! She didn't have to say anything and she did. So thank you lady if you read this. She did get a business card so you never know.

Throughout the day they had Fiesta related activities. The first big one was the pinata breaking.

It was so cute to see all the kids dive to the ground to get that candy. No sissy kids there. None of that breaking up the candy so every kid gets it. It was primal. Kids ripping other kids apart. Limbs and clothing everywhere. Well maybe not, but it was fun for the kids. Personally I don't trust a blindfolded kid with a bat.

They also had dancers come out and put on a show. Very lovely and very talented. (No sound - bummer - stupid camera) (Or is it stupid me...I am blaming the camera!)

My good friend Heather from Adagio Beadcrafters also had a booth. I wish we would have been closer. Her setup was so nice and elegant. We will be at the Rock Shrimp Festival in St. Mary's Georgia on October 4th. Stop by and see us!

All in all it was a great experience. I met a lot of people, handed out a lot of business cards and made quite a few sales. I am taking today to recoup.

My booth neighbors where a set of gentleman selling cork purses and accessories. A real neat idea! It was so funny to look over there and see the booth PACKED with people pinching the purses. Yes, folks pinched them and rubbed them. The boys shared with me that a customer actually asked if he could use them as flotation devices since cork is water repellent. We were imagining a fellow duct taping a bunch of the purses around his body and jumping in the ocean. Had a good chuckle. (I had their postcard with their website but have seemed to of lost it - guys if you see this please let me know your website and I will post it here)

Things I learned from this fair...
Make a sign that says "All items are handmade".
Wear comfortable shoes because as a craft seller you should be standing whenever you have a customer - no exceptions - well unless your leg doesn't work then I will let you off the hook.
Wear a cruddy shirt when setting up. I wore my favorite sheer top and it snagged on the Velcro of the tent poles three times and now it has snags all over it.

Tomorrow is the FIESTA!

2008-09-19T12:17:00.010-04:00

FIESTA! FIESTA! FIESTA! FIESTA!

I am so excited. It is like Christmas. If I go to bed now then the Craft Fair Fairy will come sooner so I can sell all my goods. That is how it works right? Please don't tell me there is no such thing as the Craft Fair Fairy!

Tomorrow is the day. Setup begins at 8. We have 3 hours to set up so that should be plenty of time. I hope!

This fair is my first doing my own booth and I am super excited to use all my new goodies. Having a father who is a carpenter helped. He was so great and made me displays. We took old picture frames and put solid wood with hooks as the backs and painted them all black. They turned out so elegant! I am also using fresh flowers this time around. I made sure to get some that show the Fiesta colors. (Pictured below)

I am logging off for tonight. I need my beauty rest and I don't think customers want to see a baggy eyed lady trying to show off her jewelry.

Oh yeah, I have to tell you, I had a heck of a time getting a banner for this fair. The original company let me down and couldn't produce the product in the promised time. Wilson Graphics (on Etsy) came through. I placed an alchemy request and he had it ready to ship within 2 days. It is amazing how it turned out. I will post photos of the fair by Sunday.

Heather from Adagio Beadcrafters has a booth too. She does amazing work. Her items are girly, dainty and gorgeous! She is a pleasure to be friends with and we lean on each other during times like this. It is great to have such a wonderful person to bounce things off of.

So good night to all and I can't wait for the morning. (How do you say that in spanish?)

Adios.

Winner of the Mid Month Giveaway

2008-09-19T12:17:00.002-04:00

Micaela6955

Calling Etsy Artists...

2008-09-17T13:48:00.003-04:00

Want to be in the Etsy Artist Swag bag?

October 4th I will be doing a Shrimp Festival in southern Georgia. In the past they have had 4,000 people attend this one day event.

I would like to have promo/swag bags for people to take. This is great advertising for you and it is FREE.

Convo me or comment here with your etsy name if you are interested in participating.

Business cards, samples, coupon codes are accepted. As many as you would like. (Prefer at least 25)

I will take photos of the swag bags when they get put together.

Learn more about me by stopping by my blog or website...
www.GlitzyGallery.blogspot.com
www.GlitzyGallery.com

This is a quick turn around so please only convo me if you are able to get them to Fernandina Beach, FL (32097) before the 4th of October.

Giveaway at the Fiesta De Santa Maria, September 20th.

2008-09-16T10:48:00.004-04:00

Stop by and see me on
Saturday, September 20th, 2008
Fernandina Beach, FL

Enter the FREE Giveaway for these beautiful earrings pictured below.
(Photo does them no justice)

No purchase necessary.
Make a purchase and receive an additional entry.
Winner will be notified by noon, Sunday, September 21, 2008.

I will be selling quality handmade jewelry at affordable prices.
You can also check out my Etsy shop here

Tell me you saw my blog and you will receive a free gift with purchase!
Limit 1 gift per customer.

Sure to be fun!

Here is some more information about the event:

Exotic sights, sounds and flavors will fill the streets of Fernandina Beach, Florida, Amelia Island’s historic city, during the Fiesta de Santa Maria, paying tribute to the town’s Latin roots. Hosted by the Historic Fernandina Business Association, the 5th Annual Fiesta de Santa Maria takes place Saturday, September 20, 2008 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on the culturally-rich South 3rd Street – the site of the Florida House Inn, the state’s oldest surviving tourist hotel. While staying at this Victorian-style bed and breakfast, Jose Marti plotted the Cuban War for Independence from Spain in 1895-1898. The fiesta is named in honor of “Isla de Santa Maria”, which was the name of Amelia Island during the first Spanish reign from 1565 to 1763.

Artisans, crafters and local businesses will transform South 3rd Street into a marketplace from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. Younger visitors can participate in piñata breakings at 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Historical displays and dance exhibitions are also planned. Latin-themed dishes from area restaurants will tickle visitors’ taste buds with flavors of the days when Amelia Island was ruled under the flags of Spain and Mexico. A street dance will be held from 7 p.m. until 10 p.m.

MID MONTH GIVEAWAY!

2008-09-12T07:47:00.014-04:00

MID MONTH GIVEAWAY!
Starts: Friday, September 12, 2008
Ends: Friday, September 19, 2008 Noon EST

Enter today to win this beautiful Key Ring!
The stamp says Mom's Taxi on sterling silver. There are Swarovski Crystal Dangles hanging from it. Both are attached to a keychain in a Tiffany style that is silver plated.
Retail Value $15. Open to US and International entries.

The artist:
Kimberly Glinski aka Sauchagirl

The shop & blog:
The shop here
The blog here

How Kimberly got her start:
"My shop mostly consists of jewelry and hair items for moms and daughters. I also do a little home decor. My real draw is the fabric. I love the fabrics of Sandi Henderson, Anna Maria Horner, Amy Butler, Joel Dewberry, Heather Bailey. I really search for products that I can use their fabrics in. I also love jewelry!"

Something funny about her craft:
"I've been crafting since I was small when I made my first "Cabbage Patch Kid" out of my families mismatched socks! LOL!"

The person who wins this giveaway will also be given 1 week FREE on the Etsy Banner Mall. This may be used by the winner or given as a gift. Banner will be posted in the Mall starting September 19th, 2008.

The rules and how to win:
It is fun and simple.

Contest ends at Noon on Friday, September 19, 2008.
Your entry will not be counted, if there is no contact information.

Winner will be notified by method of contact left within 24 hours of contest end.
Winner must respond with mailing information and Etsy Banner Mall information within 3 days of notification. If no response is made, the next random winner will be notified.

Come back here the second Friday of each month to see what new Artist is featured and what they are giving away!

If you would like to participate in a future giveaway contact me at my email or on etsy through convo .

Fiesta de Santa Maria

2008-09-11T16:41:00.004-04:00

Stop by and see me on
Saturday, September 20th, 2008
Fernandina Beach, FL

I will be selling quality handmade jewelry at affordable prices.
You can also check out my Etsy shop here

Tell me you saw my blog and you will receive a free gift with purchase!
Limit 1 gift per customer.

Sure to be fun!

Here is some more information about the event:

Mid Month Artist Giveaway

2008-09-09T09:06:00.005-04:00

No, I am not giving an Artist away.
But, I will feature an Artist who is giving away a beautiful item.

This is a great opportunity to bring more traffic to your shop and/website. This is not limited to just Etsy sellers. Any artist who has a website that sells is invited to participate.

Here is how it works for the participating Artist:
Once monthly (second Friday), for 1 week I will feature an artists item they would like to showcase for the giveaway.

The artist chosen to be showcased will receive 1 week FREE on the Etsy Banner Mall.

The person who wins the giveaway will also be given 1 week FREE on the Etsy Banner Mall.

Please include items valued at least $10.

Please contact me either through here, send me a convo on Etsy or Email me at GlitzyGallery@yahoo.com if you are interested in being showcased. You will be notified if you are chosen.

Here is how it works for the giveaway entries:
Each person who would like to be entered into the giveaway will go to the Artist's shop and take a look around.

They will come back here and post their favorite item from the Artist's shop.

One week from the beginning Friday (third Friday of the month) a lucky entry will be chosen at random (providing they have given the proper information) to win the giveaway item.

The Artist will be notified of the number of entries and with the contact information for the winner.

YMCA Silent Auction Entry

2008-09-09T08:11:00.004-04:00

My Jewelry Donation

The McArthur Family YMCA, 1915 Citrona Drive, Fernandina Beach, Florida is hosting a silent auction through Sept. 15 to raise money for its Share the Y campaign. Items donated from local artists and businesses will be on display in the front lobby for people throughout the community to bid on.

All proceeds will benefit the "Share the Y" campaign and assist those in Nassau County to build a healthy spirit, mind, and body.

I dropped off my donation this morning.
A beautiful pair of Sterling Silver Glass Dangle Charm Earrings.
The photo above does them no justice.
Hard to give them up, but I know it was going to a good cause.

If you are in the area, stop by and bid. All proceeds go to a good cause. You will be helping someone out and getting something pretty for yourself.

My fellow beader Heather from Adagio Beadcrafters has also donated a gorgeous piece.

Comment on your jewelry/craft donation. Lets get a picture of all the good out there!

Feel Good For The Day - Grassy Toes

2008-09-08T10:43:00.002-04:00

When was the last time you took your shoes off and walked in the grass?

Last night I was taking the dog out to do her business. I didn't have time to grab my flip flops so I went barefoot. There is a lot of grass infront of our condo and I normally don't walk through it. I couldn't tell you the last time I walked on grass without shoes on.

Well, I did it!
I walked through the grass barefoot.
It was cool to the touch when it was so hot outside.
I looked up and saw the moon.

I felt like I was a kid again. I was so calm.

Next time you are feeling frazzled and want to calm yourself, try walking through the grass without shoes. You may be suprised at how much you like it.

Comment on when the last time you walked through the grass barefoot was.

Chuckle For The Day - Garbage

2008-09-05T19:43:00.008-04:00

So yes, I know that garbage is not necessarily a funny thing. But over the past few days I have noticed there are three types of people in my condominium complex when it comes to their trash.

I have lived here for about 5 months and this is my first condo/rental. We are responsible for taking our trash to the compactor since there is no pickup at our units.

Let me introduce you to the three types of garbage people living in my complex...

1. The PUT IT IN YOUR TRUNK AND LET IT STINK person

This person will take that bag of trash and dash as fast as then can towards their vehicle holding the bag as far away from their nose as possible. Once near the trunk they pop it open quickly and chuck it in. Now a good thing to do would be to drive immediately up to the trash compactor and dump it. But noooooooo (and I have been known to do this) some of us will forget it is there until we come back to the car and the entire way to the compactor we have this awful look upon our faces. That look of sucking on a lemon and smelling an onion at the same time.

2. The HANG IT OUT YOUR CAR WINDOW person

This was entirely new to me and I thought it was simple and genius. You take the stinky bag of trash and put your arm out of your rolled down driver's window. You then hold the bag outside of your car and drive down the street. This is a GREAT idea...except when you are me and you give it a try. I am a smart person, honest I am. But everyone has their moments of forgetfulness. The trash compactor is located at the front of our complex outside of the gates so I usually drop off the garbage on the way to work. Well I had my bag of stinky garbage hanging out of the window and as you may have guessed I drove right past the compactor and onto the main road. I realized it right before I made it to the busy road. I did a u-turn and headed back. I laughed the entire way. I can't believe I did that.

3. The PUT IT ON YOUR TRUNK AND PRAY IT DOESN'T FALL person

This is the newest one I have recently seen in the past few days as I have walked the dog. Works great for those cars with spoilers on the trunks. This person strategically places the trash bags on their trunk wedging them onto the spoiler. They drive towards the compactor at snails pace crossing their fingers the bag doesn't fall and bust open. I haven't seen any broken bags so this method seems to work. Now imagine if I did that and forgot to stop at the compactor. Not a pretty picture.

I get stuck between person 1 and 2. Can't be person 3 since I drive an SUV. It does provide a good laugh when I am walking the dog.

What kind of a trash person would you be?

Voting has begun for me in the Etsy Challenge

2008-09-01T19:24:00.001-04:00

Voting has begun.

Please go to the Etsy Challenge site to vote.

I have entered one of my favorite pieces
Champagne Glass Pearl Charm Bracelet

Thank you for your support!

Please comment to let me know if you voted for me! Thanks!

$6 Jewelry Displays - Earring Display Instructions

2008-08-31T17:13:00.008-04:00

The $6 Jewelry Display Tutorial
($9 but you don't use all the supplies up
Cost is for all displays, not just this one)

EARRING DISPLAY INSTRUCTIONS
(Others to follow and already done - see archives)

Supplies:

All items came from the Dollar Tree Dollar Store or Walmart
Poster Board (2 Sheets = $1)
Foam Board (2 Sheets = $2)
Glue Sticks and Glue Gun (25 Sticks = $1)
Ribbon ($1)
Glass Rocks ($1 bag clear)
Fabric ($3 - 3 Yards to be safe = $1 Yard at Walmart)
Scissors
Exacto Knife
Pencil

Below are the steps used to make the earring display
Pictured to the right in the above photo

Step 1: Cut your pieces from the foam board
Main Piece - Cut 1 Large Rectangle
Tip: Do not make it to tall as the weight from the earrings hanging
on the front of the display may force it to fall over.

Back Piece - Cut 1 Rectangle about an inch smaller then the Main Piece all the way around.

Main Stand Pieces - Cut 2 smaller rectangles that will form the "L" shaped stand in the back.
Cut to your taste so that the earring board is at an angle you would like.
See photo below

Side Stand Pieces - Once you decide on the size of your back stand rectangles, cut two triangle pieces to cover the sides of the "L" shaped stand.
Tip: Glue the Main Stand Pieces together at the desired angle. Once dry, place sideways on foam board and trace with pencil to get your triangle sizes.

Step 2:
Take fabric and lay flat on table. Place Main Piece on fabric face down.
Cut fabric with at least 2 inches of extra fabric all the way around the main piece.

Step 3:
Pull fabric tight and glue on the back of the Main Piece.
Don't worry about it being neat on the back. It will be covered up.

Step 4:
Take ribbon and wrap around board horizontally to form multiple rows.
Space approximately 3 1/2" or more apart to allow room for earring cards.
Glue ribbon onto the board with glue on the back.

Step 5:
Take the previously cut Back Piece and glue over the back of the Main Piece.
This will cover all the fabric ends and ribbon ends.
(Not pictured in the above photo)

Step 6:
Take the previously cut Main Stand Pieces and glue into an "L" shape, making sure to rest the Main Earring Board onto the stand to check the desired angle of the display.

Step 7:
Glue a few rows of the glass rocks into the inside of the now formed "L" shaped stand. This will provide the weight. Add as much weight as desired.

Step 8:
Hide your glass rocks by gluing the Side Stand pieces to the side of the "L" shaped stand. This will also add more support.

Step 9:
Glue the finished "L" shaped stand the the back of the Main Earring Displayboard.

You are done!

If you have any questions please feel free to email me at GlitzyGallery@yahoo.com or contact me through my website www.GlitzyGallery.com

Other display instructions coming soon!

$6 Jewelry Displays - Necklace Display Instructions

2008-08-27T21:12:00.011-04:00

It is finally here...

The $6 Jewelry Display Tutorial
($9 but you don't use all the supplies up
Cost is for all displays, not just this one)

NECKLACE DISPLAY INSTRUCTIONS
(Others to follow)

Supplies:

All items came from the Dollar Tree Dollar Store or Walmart
Poster Board (2 Sheets = $1)
Foam Board (2 Sheets = $2)
Glue Sticks and Glue Gun (25 Sticks = $1)
Ribbon ($1)
Glass Rocks ($1 bag clear)
Fabric ($3 - 3 Yards to be safe = $1 Yard at Walmart)
Scissors
Exacto Knife
Pencil

Below are the steps used to make the necklace display
Pictured to the left in the above photo

Step 1:
Piece 1 - Cut 1 Large Rectangle from the foam board
Piece 2 - Cut 1 Rectangle the same width as the large rectangle and approx 2" shorter (to taste)
Piece 3 - Cut 1 rectangle for base the same width as previous rectangles and about 1/3 the length of Rectangle

Step 2:
Glue the 3 rectangle together using the hot glue gun
Take a portion of the glass rocks and hot glue them into the bottom of the display for weight
Your display should look like this...

Step 3:
Cut 2 triangles from the poster board to cover the sides of the display
Tip: Lie the foam board display on the poster board and draw a line around the display onto the poster board
You should have this...

Step 4:
Glue the triangles onto the sides of the necklace display

Step 5:
Lie your fabric flat on the table and place the angled front onto the fabric
Cut fabric to have enough to wrap around the display to the back

Step 6:
Don't worry about the back being pretty with the fabric
You will make a panel to cover that
Hot glue fabric to the display pulling tight and putting glue on bottom and back of display. Avoid gluing on the front, it generally soaks through the fabric.

Step 7:
Take your ribbon and cut a piece long enough to wrap around the top of the display
This one has two rows- 1 row for earrings to match the necklaces below
Hot glue the ribbon around with the ends and glue in the back

Step 8:
Using left over fabric or poster board cut a rectangle neatly to create a panel on the back to cover all the fabric ends, ribbon ends and hot glue
Glue neatly to cover

Step 9:
Take 4 glass rocks and glue to bottom of display to create feet in the corners

If you have any questions please feel free to email me at GlitzyGallery@yahoo.com or contact me through my website www.GlitzyGallery.com

Other display instructions coming soon!

VOTE FOR ME!

2008-08-25T14:43:00.003-04:00

Monday, September 1st, 2008

I will be competing in the Etsy Challenge - Jewelry category.

Please go to the Etsy Challenge site to vote.

Please vote fair.....
and that would be for me.

I have entered one of my favorite pieces
Champagne Glass Pearl Charm Bracelet

Thank you for your support!

Please comment to let me know you voted for me! Thanks!

Tropical Storm Fay

2008-08-24T09:19:00.002-04:00

She is gone. FINALLY!

I am located in the furthest northeast area of Florida, just above Jacksonville. It was just a pounding that would not go away. The rains didn't stop and when they did the wind was there howling. And when that would slow down the Tornado warnings and watches would come on the TV. Can't they make the TV warnings a bit more enjoyable to hear. That loud pitch is so annoying. I know it is made to get your attention, but couldn't they have a catchy jingle instead?

Luckily our condo didn't lose power. Very suprising considering the problems we have had in the past with less severe storms. I relocated my beading to the living area so I could watch the TV if something important was happening. I found this time to be one of my most creative. I put together some beautiful bracelets! Photos coming soon. Also gave me time to think more about promotions for Glitzy Gallery.

I sat out on the front screened porch for a portion of the storm. At any moment I expected to see a cow come flying past with how heavy the winds were. Only saw a shutter fall off the condo across from us. And to think it was real wood and it turned out to be hollow plastic. Sneaky.

Our area didn't suffer to much damage. Some power outages, tree limbs down and minor flooding. Not nearly as bad as the folks below us.

Places are started opening back up last night and yesterday. You could tell there was a bit of cabin fever. I definitely had a case of it. Restaurants were busy and bar/club lines were out the door. People needed to get out and have something to do and some retail spaces were without power still.

From what I have heard they just did a big restoration of our local beach bringing the sand levels up higher and that sand is gone now. That would be so defeating to see all the hard work just wash away back into the ocean.

All in all, this wasn't as bad for us as they had suggested. Generally the weather folks like to play it up more than is necessary, but if that is what it takes to keep people safe and off the streets then more power to them.

I will be relocating back into my office now that I don't have to watch out for the storm warnings. It is exciting to get back to normal.

Stay tuned to see those beautiful tropical storm inspired bracelets.

Hope everyone stayed safe and there wasn't to much damage.

Thank you to all the Etsians who wished us Floridians a safe weekend.

Acupuncture! Pointy Little Needles All Over and It is GREAT!

2008-08-19T14:36:00.007-04:00

Acupuncture is great!
If you hurt, I strongly suggest you try it! It doesn't hurt...well for me.

Anyone who knows me, knows that I am one big bundle of physical pain at any given time. Something always hurts, but I just deal (well I whine sometimes too, but don't we all?). It finally came to the point where it was almost unbearable to type for an extended period of time. I feared that I may be forming carpal tunnel. At this time I also had a sinus infection. The fourth in the last 6 months.

Now I have nothing against going to a regular Western medicine doctor. I have been many times. I have personally put their children through college with my financial contributions. Unfortunately the health insurance that I have is awful (at least I have some I guess). For example, a sinus infection doctor visit will run me $250 plus prescriptions. Yikes! I decided to try something that wasn't covered, and it has ended up to be more affordable. About $350 for 6 treatments.

I decided to try something different...Acupuncture. I came to the acupuncturist for help with the arm and sinus and I walked out of there having been treated for every other pain I have had lately. I didn't even have to tell them all to him. He just seemed to know where it was hurting. (I think it was magic but shhh don't tell him I said that)

I was informed that after the first visit to not expect everything to be healed right away. That I had my Qi (Che?) blocked and it may take some time to get it to flow again. It would take multiple visits to see results. Well buddy, after the first one I felt like I could climb a mountain, jump a building or eat a really big ice cream cone and not get a freezy headache. I stopped taking my sinus medicine and I felt even better. The arm is feeling good. Not great but good. I can at least type for extended periods of time now.

He also taught me a better way of breathing. It definitely helps a lot and helps me to feel more centered.

I may try to do the herb treatment (herbs made into teas) later on. However, I can't stand the taste of regular tea and he mentioned this tastes worse. Way to sell me on that one, right?

For now I will stick with the tiny needles inserted everywhere from my forehead to my toes. Today was my second appointment, and I feel great. I went in with a not so sunny disposition and now I feel like I could kiss a cloud.

I had forgotten about my appointment today, so I downed a bag of sour cream and onion chips with lunch (yeah I know, healthy, it's a veggie right?). This guy is quite serious, so I went in a apologized in advance for the onion breath. And don't you know, he actually smiled.

Next appointment is next Wednesday. Can't wait!

Simple, Fast & Affordable Earring Cards

2008-08-17T15:04:00.000-04:00

I searched and searched and searched for the perfect premade earring cards.

I found nothing that was funky and fun like me or my jewelry.

I took it into my own hands and decided to make my own.
Below are my simple, no brainer steps to my earring cards...

Items Needed:
2 Push Pins or Small Nails (Extras if one breaks)

Hammer (smaller the better but not the little tonka plastic ones)

Packaging tape or duct tape

Old outdated business cards or cardboard pieces (stacked to about an inch deep)

Solid surface for hammering on like hmmm a table (not glass please)

Step 1:
Go to VistaPrint.com/overstock
Click on the Premium Business Card Link (They will be FREE + Shipping)
Your card design template will be horizontal. Design your card so it is vertical laid on it's side.
I included some design on at the top and my website at the bottom of the card.
If you order additional items that are not free, enter the code SUMMER or MCFREECARDS for additional discounts (Good as of 7.10.08)
I always choose the slowest shipping and get them within a week.

Step 2:
Wait. Wait. Wait.
They show up in your mailbox or on your front door step.
Rip open the box like it is Christmas.
(It's alright if you do a little dance...I won't tell)

Step 3:
Get some cardboard or old business cards like I used and stack them.
Tape them together with a few layers of tape so it doesn't move around.
We will call this your hammering pillow.

Step 4:
Place your hammering pillow on a hard surface (not glass).
Put your new business cards on top of your hammering pillow. 3-5 at a time should do.
Place push pins, where you want the holes for the earrings to go, on the top business card and gently push down until they stand up on their own.
Take small hammer and gently tap in the push pins.
Pick up the new business cards with the push pins still pushed in.
Push pins all the way through.
Don't make the holes to big or the earrings will slide out. I have found that a push pin size hole works great!

Repeat step 4 until you have enough cards ready.

Enjoy!

Send me your photos of your earring cards. I love to see other's work.

THE CAR, THE COMPUTER, THE LOTTO TICKET, THE TOASTER AND THE WASHING MACHINE

2008-07-13T07:47:00.010-04:00

I just have to laugh.

That is all I have left to do.

It is all I can do.

Hope you had a great weekend. Let me tell you how mine went...
Hope you get a good laugh.

THE CAR
It was Friday and I was super excited that my new, even faster and better, laptop was scheduled to be delivered to my employers office. I am off of work on Friday's so I decided to come in to pick it up. After checking the tracking number and seeing that it hadn't arrived I thought I would get in some yard saleing. Anyone who knows me knows I love a great bargain.

I get to my final yard sale on the list and am parked on the side of the road at the end of this driveway. As I pay for my big bag of books, 50 cents each mind you a great deal, a lady comes up yelling, "who's van is that? I just backed into it." First of all I don't drive a van, it is an SUV. No offense to anyone who drives a van, but I like my SUV. And second of all I just bought it and it is NEW! At this point there is no way to reverse what happened and the woman who hit my car was visibly shaken so the best thing I could do was put a smile on and try to help her calm down.

The front driver side panel and the bumper are dented and scratched so she called the police and we waited, chit chatting. She is a real nice person, I felt bad that it happened to her. So the police officer arrives and we do the exchange of information and since this is the first accident for both of us we have no idea what to do next. I was told to call my insurance company to give them a heads up about the situation. I head to my employer's office to use a land line phone to call the insurance and of course the computer still has not arrived. The insurance company tells me that I am required to drive 45 minutes away to their collision center to get an estimate....in the end of it all I get down there and I didn't need to go that far because the other insurance would be responsible. Geez la weez.

THE COMPUTER
Later that same day I finally get the new computer. So exciting! I now have a better, faster computer to support the new business I have been getting for my design work. I have my old laptop backing up to an external hard drive to get ready to transfer and I leave the room and get preoccupied with something else. It starts to rain, thunder and lightning. HEY FOLKS, PLUG YOUR COMPUTER INTO A SURGE PROTECTOR AT ALL TIMES! I had plugged my old computer into the outlet without the protector so I could get it on the desk better during the backup. Well, lightning hits the condo! The dishwasher starts smoking and the coffee grinder turns on. It's like a scene from a scary movie. I swear that coffee grinder sounded like a chainsaw. I laugh now, not then. It hits me that my old computer was plugged into the wall. And yep folks, FRIED! The backup doesn't get barely anything. After going through all the emotions of losing everything I realize that this is God's way of telling me that it was okay for me to invest the money in a new computer and to let the old one go. I just wish I could have learned another way. My mother being the computer saint she is, came over the next day and was able to get the computer to turn on for just enough time for me to get the majority of my files off in safe mode. I am so thankful!

THE LOTTO TICKET
The next day I decide to cure my bad luck with some retail therapy...I'M GOIN SHOPPIN! Find some good things and think that my luck has turned. You know what that means right? Get a lotto ticket. I head into the gas station to purchase my ticket and the cashier refuses to sell me the ticket without my ID. I didn't bring my purse in but I sure don't look younger than 18. I am 24 for pickle's sake! And what am I going to do if I am underage and actually do win. They don't think this through. The underage can't cash the thing in. Well anyways guess she was going her job. So my mother decides to purchase the tickets I was going to get. You guessed it. SHE WON! $25 on a $2 ticket. If it was anyone, she deserved to win but it was just my luck.

THE TOASTER
I get home from shopping feeling good about my purchases. Mostly decorations for the condo. I decided I was going to clean up before hanging anything so I could start with a clean slate. I start in the kitchen and as I clean off the stove I knock an entire box of toothpicks into the toaster. Have you ever tried to get anything out of the toaster? Every time I turned it over and shook it, I only got bread crumbs. The toothpicks kept turning different directions and stayed in there. I GAVE UP. I tossed that sucker into the trash. Who needs toast anyways?

THE WASHING MACHINE
All I wanted was clean bedding. Is that to much to ask? I've washed it before. Don't know what was different this time. As I am trying to get my old laptop to work the washing machine decides to leak all over the floor and continue into the kitchen to the dining room. So on my hands and knees I sop up the water with a towel and a bucket.
TIP: DON'T PUT YOUR EXTRA PAPER TOWELS ON THE BOTTOM OF YOUR PANTRY. THEY GET WET WHEN THE WASHER LEAKS AND SEEPS INTO THE PANTRY.

ANOTHER TIP: DON'T PUT A KING SIZE DOWN COMFORTER IN FRONT OF THE WASHER WHEN IT LEAKS. IT WEIGHS A TON WHEN IT SOAKS UP WATER.

It is now a day later and I am telling myself everything will get better. Not much else weird like this can happen. If today happens to go like the previous days I will wrap myself in bubble wrap before leaving the house. Any other ideas?

Who just visited my website?

2008-07-10T13:13:00.006-04:00

When I find something I love I have to tell everyone I can.

What better way than on my blog?

These people have not paid me to say this nor do I think they even know who I am....

I love Statcounter.com

What is it you may say?

This site will generate a code that you copy and paste into your html of your website or blog and it will track the hits that you receive. You then log onto their site and it shows you detailed accounts of who was on your site and when. It also has a nifty map that you click on and it puts a dot for each person in the world who visited your site.

It tracks how people find you through search engines and what keywords they search by. It is so fun at the end of the day to log on and see how many people have visited me. You can also opt for the counter to be invisible so no one knows it is there. Best of all...it is FREE!

That's my two cents. Enjoy!

4th of July Craft Fair

2008-07-10T11:18:00.009-04:00

Let me start out by saying
THANK YOU
to all of you who came out and stopped by.

This fair was a great experience and provided me with the knowledge to do the next one even better.

By the way, these displays are my $6 made at home ones that I will eventually put up step by step instructions on how to make.

That would be me and my booth.

The table layout worked perfectly and I had just enough space. My good friend Heather from Adagio Beadcrafters shared the booth space with me.

We make a pretty good team and I can't wait to do another fair with her again! Heather is pictured above.

For those of you who were unable to attend, that is alright, visit my online booth anytime.

The music was great. Funky and upbeat with enough rhythm to get your hips moving. Plenty of people showed up in their Red, White and Blues. We even had pirates at the fair! Amelia Island is known for it's pirates and they are at all of our events. It wouldn't be an Amelia Island event without at least one.

There were a few food booths, and I do have to say my favorite snack there was the mozzarella sticks. Normally I could do without these. Oh my gosh, these were fantastic! Yes, I know I am raving about mozzarella sticks with nummy marinara sauce. Wish I had some right now. Can you tell it is almost lunch time and what I have on my mind?

Check back often to see when the next fair is or sign up for the monthly e-mailing list to be notified by email of the next fair.

Neighboring booth above and tug of war below

The New Website Is Up And Running!

2008-06-30T09:03:00.002-04:00

Hello folks.

GlitzyGallery.com
is up and running officially!

Please stop by and let me know what you think.

Also, sign up for the once monthly e-mailing list
to receive updates on new items and promotions.
Including coupon codes good towards discounts on Jewelry and Design services.
You may opt out at any time.
Your information will only be used for the Glitzy Gallery Mailing.

So the Blog, she is up, well kinda

2008-06-18T13:04:00.002-04:00

Stay tuned for...

A better looking blog & site

Tips and codes for the best deals on VistaPrint & other online stores

Step by step instructions for $6 jewelry displays

Advertisement space for fellow Estians and Artists

And much much more!
Stay tuned!

Sign up here for my once monthly E-mailing list to receive Blog! updates and coupon codes good for my Etsy shop and Graphic Design services.

Your information will be used for the sole purpose of the once monthly E-mail. If at any time you would like to stop receiving these messages, please email me at GlitzyGallery.com to be removed.

What is black and white and takes flight?

2008-06-17T16:23:00.004-04:00

Have you figured it out yet?

It is my car magnet that I ordered from VistaPrint.

So, I am going down I-95 south towards Orlando and I see something in my side mirror. My magnet detaches from the side of my vehicle and takes flight, doing multiple flips in the air prior to almost hitting the car behind me. The driver wasn't to happy behind me. It landed on the ground with the magnetic side up. I envision it to be stuck to the underside of a Trucker's gas tank.

Who knows? Maybe he will find it and come to my site to purchase a necklace for his wife...
Stranger things have happened.

I called VistaPrint this morning to let them know what happened. The woman on the phone was very nice and professional. She offered me a new magnet for free with expedited shipping. The great thing about it was that I got the magnet for free the first time around.

I will continue to order from VistaPrint...But next time I won't take my magnet down the Interstate with me.