I think I need this one on my wall in my bedroom beside his newborn picture.
And one from last to see how much he has grown. Hold me!
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Spring Pictures
As I mentioned on Saturday, we had Nicholas' pictures taken with the baby chickens again. He did better this year, but was still a little scared. However, our photographer rocks and did a FABULOUS job yet again! Here are my favorites. I want one for my bedroom, but no clue how to chose one!
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Prayer Request, Another Disney Question, and Consignment Update
I have a fairly urgent prayer request this morning. My dad's younger brother is in the ICU not doing very well. He has been there since early Monday morning and will be there a minimum of another week. He and my dad are close and my dad is having a hard time with him being so sick. Please keep my uncle, his doctors, nurses, and our family in your prayers over the next several days.
As you know, we are going to Disney later this year. We are considering two hotels and leaning more towards one than the other. Has anyone stayed at the Caribbean Beach Resort in a pirate room? I'm seeing so many mixed reviews that I just can't make a decision. We are also considering All Star Movies, but I don't like how far it is from everything, but on a positive note, the Toy Story room we would get is close to everything. The drawback to the pirate rooms is that they are a looooooooong way from everything at that resort. Nicholas would LOVE a pirate room, but he would also think the Toy Story room is awesome and doesn't know there is another option. What would you do? Anyone that has been to either feel free to give me some feedback!
For those of you who read my consignment updates, I did awesome at JBF this year! I took 97 items and only had 2 left at the end!!!! I've never done that well before and I made enough pay our room at Disney!!!
As you know, we are going to Disney later this year. We are considering two hotels and leaning more towards one than the other. Has anyone stayed at the Caribbean Beach Resort in a pirate room? I'm seeing so many mixed reviews that I just can't make a decision. We are also considering All Star Movies, but I don't like how far it is from everything, but on a positive note, the Toy Story room we would get is close to everything. The drawback to the pirate rooms is that they are a looooooooong way from everything at that resort. Nicholas would LOVE a pirate room, but he would also think the Toy Story room is awesome and doesn't know there is another option. What would you do? Anyone that has been to either feel free to give me some feedback!
For those of you who read my consignment updates, I did awesome at JBF this year! I took 97 items and only had 2 left at the end!!!! I've never done that well before and I made enough pay our room at Disney!!!
Monday, March 18, 2013
Brain Dump
1. Not that it is a little warmer weather outside and I've had to put my boots up, I'm struggling to find just the right wardrobe for myself. I've been wearing tennis shoes or my Chacos a lot because of my bad back and because it seems all I do these days is chase a wild almost 3 year old! I love wearing skinny jeans when I dress up, but they aren't practical for me on a daily basis unless I'm dressing up with heels or ballet flats. I'm needing to find some new jeans because my favorites have always been Gap long and lean, but they've quit making them. What are a good, affordable pair of bootcut or flare jeans that fit well on people with small waists, but big hips? This a pair of Old Navy jeans I found in my closet from a few years ago. Not bad, but not as good as my favorite long and leans.
(ok, so I was informed on Twitter last night that they are still available??? I guess I'll have to check out my local Gap soon!)
2. I will be making our Disney dining reservations soon. So far I am planning to make them at Chef Mickey, Hollywood and Vine (Disney Jr breakfast!), and Crystal Palace. I'm leaning towards Tony's Town Square instead of Be Our Guest because I think it would be more for me than Nicholas. :-) Any other fun Hollywood Studios or Magic Kingdom area restaurants we should try?
3. I noticed this weekend at the grocery store that I am spending a small fortune buying fresh produce for Nicholas. That kid can eat some serious fruits and veggies! I have to buy twice what I normally buy because he eats so much of it. I love that he gets his sugar fix from fruits and that he would rather eat veggies than anything else! We've definitely been blessed by his eating habits!
4. I've had this book sitting in my closet for a few years and finally got around to really reading it this week. I like it but not as much as I liked Jen's other book, Pretty In Plaid. If you are looking for a funny, chick-lit type book, I highly recommend her work.
5. We need to do some serious spring cleaning at our house and some major closet clean outs, but who has that kind of time? One of these days I'll get around to it, or maybe our closets will just be stuffed full and impossible to walk into until we move in a few years.
6. I'm working on adding a lot of color to my patio this Spring. Trying to decide exactly what colors, but I know I want new cushions and outdoor curtains (which I've been lusting over for years). I'm thinking fun, bright colors like turquoise, orange, lime green, and pops of pink. Now, just got to find those in cushions and curtains!
7. I had a pretty good week on my diet. I lost about 3 pounds including a bad case of food poisoning, so maybe that helped. :-) I ate a small salad for lunch most days, drank a lot of water (for me), and tried to eat sensible at night without much dairy or cheese. This lunch was actually pretty tasty! I bought salad stuff to make at home this week for lunches and some dinners while my boys eat off the nightly menu.
8. What is everyone watching on TV these days? We are watching the usual: Dallas, The Middle, Modern Family, Nashville, and Scandal, but we've started watching Celebrity Apprentice again and Property Brothers on HGTV. We love Celebrity Apprentice, but do good to make it until it is over at 11. Michael got me hooked on Property Brothers and it cracks me up because he wants us to do something like that when we move in a few years. Um, no thanks! I like to watch it, but I don't want the stress of a remodel on top of moving.
3. I noticed this weekend at the grocery store that I am spending a small fortune buying fresh produce for Nicholas. That kid can eat some serious fruits and veggies! I have to buy twice what I normally buy because he eats so much of it. I love that he gets his sugar fix from fruits and that he would rather eat veggies than anything else! We've definitely been blessed by his eating habits!
4. I've had this book sitting in my closet for a few years and finally got around to really reading it this week. I like it but not as much as I liked Jen's other book, Pretty In Plaid. If you are looking for a funny, chick-lit type book, I highly recommend her work.
5. We need to do some serious spring cleaning at our house and some major closet clean outs, but who has that kind of time? One of these days I'll get around to it, or maybe our closets will just be stuffed full and impossible to walk into until we move in a few years.
6. I'm working on adding a lot of color to my patio this Spring. Trying to decide exactly what colors, but I know I want new cushions and outdoor curtains (which I've been lusting over for years). I'm thinking fun, bright colors like turquoise, orange, lime green, and pops of pink. Now, just got to find those in cushions and curtains!
7. I had a pretty good week on my diet. I lost about 3 pounds including a bad case of food poisoning, so maybe that helped. :-) I ate a small salad for lunch most days, drank a lot of water (for me), and tried to eat sensible at night without much dairy or cheese. This lunch was actually pretty tasty! I bought salad stuff to make at home this week for lunches and some dinners while my boys eat off the nightly menu.
8. What is everyone watching on TV these days? We are watching the usual: Dallas, The Middle, Modern Family, Nashville, and Scandal, but we've started watching Celebrity Apprentice again and Property Brothers on HGTV. We love Celebrity Apprentice, but do good to make it until it is over at 11. Michael got me hooked on Property Brothers and it cracks me up because he wants us to do something like that when we move in a few years. Um, no thanks! I like to watch it, but I don't want the stress of a remodel on top of moving.
Meal Planning Monday
Nothing too exciting on our menu this week. Sorry friends! Maybe I'll be inspired again next week. :-)
Monday - Leftovers (Mommy will have a salad on her diet plan)
Tuesday - Stir-fried Cashew Chicken with Broccoli, Carrots, and Mushrooms
Wednesday - Spaghetti, Salad
Wednesday - Spaghetti, Salad
Thursday - Crockpot Pork Chops (never had them last week), Macaroni, Green Beans
Friday - Pizza!
Saturday - Chicken Pot Pie, Cooked Apples
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Happy St. Patrick's Day!!! Even though we are Baptist and not Catholic, we still love some St. Patrick's Day around here. I am part Irish, so why not?! We wear our green, eat our corned beef, cabbage and potatoes, and drink our beer! It's a fun day!
Last Sunday I discovered this yummy treat! Why have I never had a Shamrock Shake from McDonald's until now???
We went out for some lunch and ate at Mellow Mushroom. Nicholas was excited to eat some "pizzzzzzzza!"
We got an awesome pesto and tomato pizza that was super tasty!
After we played outside some more this afternoon, we ate our traditional St. Patrick's Day dinner. I made a crockpot corned beef with veggies and it was pretty good (even if I am not a huge corned beef kind of girl!).
I had planned to make a special green dessert, but forgot to buy marshmallows, so it didn't work out. Maybe next year! Now it's time for bath, getting clothes ready for the week, and cuddling up to watch Celebrity Apprentice after Nicholas goes to bed. It's going to be another long week!
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Sunny Saturday
We have enjoyed a fun, warm, Spring day today. Yesterday was not such a fun day. Michael and I spent the day in bed with food poisoning from our salmon on Wednesday night. It didn't have any characteristics of a virus and Nicholas hasn't been sick or anyone else we know, so we are pretty sure that's what it is. After about 18 hours of sleep, we are like new people today. Thank goodness!
I started my day at the 50% off day at JBF where I scored a bunch of puzzles and books for $1.00 or less each! However my find of the day was this set of Mickey ears for Michael to wear at Disney for $2.00! Haha! (I'll be wearing a pair of sequined ears and I'm going to order some for Nicholas with his name on them to have when he gets to the room)
I was back home by 9:30 and got Nicholas ready for his Easter/baby chicken pictures. He was still a little afraid again this year, but he did great after we put the chickens up. He was such a little poser and kept saying "CHEESE!". He probably did the best he ever has for his pictures. I cannot say enough good things about our photographer Lindsey. She manages to get good pictures on his bad days, so I cannot wait to see what she got on a good day!
We've just been outside enjoying this awesome Spring day and it has been a wonderful day. Nicholas has been practicing his tee-ball and playing on his swing set. He has decided that his fort is actually a pirate ship and tells us he can see Captain Hook through the telescope. :-)
Michael grilled out tonight and we had chicken, peppers, onion, and mushrooms from the grill. YUM! Even Nicholas ate a little bit of it! I just love warm, sunny days with my boys and looking forward to many more weekends like this over the next few months!
I started my day at the 50% off day at JBF where I scored a bunch of puzzles and books for $1.00 or less each! However my find of the day was this set of Mickey ears for Michael to wear at Disney for $2.00! Haha! (I'll be wearing a pair of sequined ears and I'm going to order some for Nicholas with his name on them to have when he gets to the room)
I was back home by 9:30 and got Nicholas ready for his Easter/baby chicken pictures. He was still a little afraid again this year, but he did great after we put the chickens up. He was such a little poser and kept saying "CHEESE!". He probably did the best he ever has for his pictures. I cannot say enough good things about our photographer Lindsey. She manages to get good pictures on his bad days, so I cannot wait to see what she got on a good day!
We've just been outside enjoying this awesome Spring day and it has been a wonderful day. Nicholas has been practicing his tee-ball and playing on his swing set. He has decided that his fort is actually a pirate ship and tells us he can see Captain Hook through the telescope. :-)
Michael grilled out tonight and we had chicken, peppers, onion, and mushrooms from the grill. YUM! Even Nicholas ate a little bit of it! I just love warm, sunny days with my boys and looking forward to many more weekends like this over the next few months!
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Raising Little Boys To Have A Christ Like Heart in 2013
This is a heavy, wordy post that has been on my heart for months and well, really years now. As a mom, and I think especially as a boy mom, I feel a need to raise my son as a Godly young man who has a heart for God. I'll be honest, since I found out he was a boy I was worried that I wouldn't know what to do to build his character into a Christ-like heart. Yes, he has wonderful examples in our family, but I worried about the influences outside of home and church. I struggled with how I would show him that it is cool to be a teenage boy that praises God, prays in public, and isn't afraid to be a Christian when others around him may not be. I worry about what he sees as role models in sports and pop culture. Is this the kind of person I want my kid to look up to???
Last Fall, God put some Godly teenage boys in our lives and gave me a peace that yes, you can raise a Godly child in this day and age. It may be a strange place to find a peace in my Mommy heart, but every week I watched the team my dad coaches at a small private Baptist school praise God for everything. They gave Him the glory in good times and continued to praise Him in the lowest times. I watched as multiple sets of 3 or 4 of high school football players huddle on one knee and prayed together before each and every game without the prompting of coaches or parents. I watched them praise God after injuries that could've been worse, a season ending loss by thanking Him for taking them so far, and praise during the happy times. I've read pieces of the testimonies of a few of them and it was hard to believe the words came from a teenager. They Facebook scripture and some deep thoughts that at 32 years old, make me think deep. Opposing coaches and fans have complimented their individual sportsmanship on the field. I pray daily for Nicholas to have a heart like those boys when he is a teenager.
***This is probably a good time to mention that these are observations based solely upon their actions I've witnessed on the football field and at church. Actions I have witnessed firsthand and not a biased opinion as a coach's daughter. I would be impressed with their character if I watched them from the stands as an opposing fan. I also want to say this: they have a normal, teenage, passionate feud with a rival school that has fueled some heated moments; I do not doubt for one minute that they have disagreements with their parents, get into normal teenage mischief, and I in no way think they are perfect, I know that no one is. I just admire their public proclamation of being a Christian teenager.***
Nicholas goes to Sunday school, he says his prayers at night, we read Bible stories, and we sing praise music with the Veggie Tales in the car and while we do chores a home. I worry about the temptations a teenage boy faces and how he will respond. I pray that he never hides the fact he has a heart that believes. I hope within the next few years as he watches these fine young men compete against schools who refuse to pray with them at midfield and mock their Christlike hearts, that he sees that they never lose their focus of having a Christ-like heart.
In the meantime I will continue to pray for my sweet son. I will pray on a daily basis that he has a heart that loves God and that he isn't afraid to show it. I pray that I am able to teach him how to grow as a Christian and that he grows to be an example of a Christ-like heart. I pray he is able to withstand temptations that will come his way. With prayer and by seeing the examples set by these young men, I find peace in raising a son in this day and age.
Last Fall, God put some Godly teenage boys in our lives and gave me a peace that yes, you can raise a Godly child in this day and age. It may be a strange place to find a peace in my Mommy heart, but every week I watched the team my dad coaches at a small private Baptist school praise God for everything. They gave Him the glory in good times and continued to praise Him in the lowest times. I watched as multiple sets of 3 or 4 of high school football players huddle on one knee and prayed together before each and every game without the prompting of coaches or parents. I watched them praise God after injuries that could've been worse, a season ending loss by thanking Him for taking them so far, and praise during the happy times. I've read pieces of the testimonies of a few of them and it was hard to believe the words came from a teenager. They Facebook scripture and some deep thoughts that at 32 years old, make me think deep. Opposing coaches and fans have complimented their individual sportsmanship on the field. I pray daily for Nicholas to have a heart like those boys when he is a teenager.
***This is probably a good time to mention that these are observations based solely upon their actions I've witnessed on the football field and at church. Actions I have witnessed firsthand and not a biased opinion as a coach's daughter. I would be impressed with their character if I watched them from the stands as an opposing fan. I also want to say this: they have a normal, teenage, passionate feud with a rival school that has fueled some heated moments; I do not doubt for one minute that they have disagreements with their parents, get into normal teenage mischief, and I in no way think they are perfect, I know that no one is. I just admire their public proclamation of being a Christian teenager.***
Nicholas goes to Sunday school, he says his prayers at night, we read Bible stories, and we sing praise music with the Veggie Tales in the car and while we do chores a home. I worry about the temptations a teenage boy faces and how he will respond. I pray that he never hides the fact he has a heart that believes. I hope within the next few years as he watches these fine young men compete against schools who refuse to pray with them at midfield and mock their Christlike hearts, that he sees that they never lose their focus of having a Christ-like heart.
In the meantime I will continue to pray for my sweet son. I will pray on a daily basis that he has a heart that loves God and that he isn't afraid to show it. I pray that I am able to teach him how to grow as a Christian and that he grows to be an example of a Christ-like heart. I pray he is able to withstand temptations that will come his way. With prayer and by seeing the examples set by these young men, I find peace in raising a son in this day and age.
Monday, March 11, 2013
Meal Plan Monday
I don't think I have any pictures to show, but I wanted to get back to at least posting my meal plans for the week. I am going on a diet, so we are going to be eating a little healthier this week. Nicholas will be eating most of what we eat, but not everything.
Monday - Bow-tie pasta in lemon garlic sauce with shrimp and broccoli, bread
Tuesday - N will be eating at Gigi's and Michael and I will have takeout because Momma is having her hair cut and colored! Yay!
Wednesday - Thai chili salmon, rice, broccoli (N will have fish sticks instead of salmon)
Thursday - Crockpot pork chops, green beans, carrots
Friday - Pizza night!
Saturday - Grilled steak and veggie kabobs, baked potatoes (N will have grilled chicken)
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Weekend Wrap Up
What a fun weekend for everyone at our house! Friday night we ate Mexican and had a dance party in our living room. Nicholas has gotten to where he LOVES to listen to music and dance. We turn on the Disney Kids Pandora station and dance. He is such a fun age right now!
Saturday morning I went to the JBF sale. I woke up, got ready, and got there around 8:10 for the 9:00 sale and was 11th in line. I had found an Imaginext bat cave and Pirate set when I worked drop off and I literally ran to the toy table and grabbed both immediately. I also found another Imaginext bat cave and a friend with boys who was also there told me I needed both. If she says so! Haha! Needless to say, birthday shopping is done for this year and it's only March! Yes!
I also found a ton of good clothes and a few other things he needed. This was my car by the time my mom and I were done. Two 31 totes full and 3 Imaginext pieces. All 3 Imaginext pieces are like brand new with all the pieces for $65! Not bad!
I also found these Polo shirts for $14 for all 3. I am particularly excited about the blue and yellow stripe one that he can wear to UTC games this fall!
This was too cute to pass up and it still had tags on it. Pretty sure it is Nicholas' Easter outfit!
While I was standing in line and shopping, the boys went on their first hike. They both love being outside and nature. I think they had a lot of fun! They hiked to a waterfall and Nicholas kept saying it was pirate island! Haha!
Last night my parents kept Nicholas while we went out for my cousin Lindsey's birthday. It was good to spend some time with Michael and with my cousins.
The highlight today was going to Home Depot and buying a screen door for our patio. Nicholas LOVES to play outside and last year we had a house full of flies. Now we can just use our new screen door and save ourselves from the flies!
We also spent a lot of time playing outside. My little buddy sure does love playing on his swing set. Still one of the best investments we've made was buying that last year! Tonight we grilled out and it was the perfect ending to a fun Springtime weekend! I have a few posts scheduled to go this week! (I know, who am I?! I am actually keeping up again!) Come back tomorrow morning for Meal Planning Monday!
Saturday morning I went to the JBF sale. I woke up, got ready, and got there around 8:10 for the 9:00 sale and was 11th in line. I had found an Imaginext bat cave and Pirate set when I worked drop off and I literally ran to the toy table and grabbed both immediately. I also found another Imaginext bat cave and a friend with boys who was also there told me I needed both. If she says so! Haha! Needless to say, birthday shopping is done for this year and it's only March! Yes!
This was all of the clothes piled up ready to have the tags removed and be washed.
This was too cute to pass up and it still had tags on it. Pretty sure it is Nicholas' Easter outfit!
While I was standing in line and shopping, the boys went on their first hike. They both love being outside and nature. I think they had a lot of fun! They hiked to a waterfall and Nicholas kept saying it was pirate island! Haha!
The highlight today was going to Home Depot and buying a screen door for our patio. Nicholas LOVES to play outside and last year we had a house full of flies. Now we can just use our new screen door and save ourselves from the flies!
We also spent a lot of time playing outside. My little buddy sure does love playing on his swing set. Still one of the best investments we've made was buying that last year! Tonight we grilled out and it was the perfect ending to a fun Springtime weekend! I have a few posts scheduled to go this week! (I know, who am I?! I am actually keeping up again!) Come back tomorrow morning for Meal Planning Monday!
Friday, March 8, 2013
Consignment Selling and Prep
Now that I've told my shopping secrets, let me share how I sell 90% of my items (I bring 150 items and usually only have around 20 to take home on pick up day!). I've became a "super consignor" at one sale by following this plan.
****This is based upon sales in my area. Note that ALL sales are different, even within the same location. ALWAYS check the rules of your individual sales to prep the most efficiently!
How do I organize and sort my items?
As Nicholas outgrows his clothes I pack them away in large bins marked Fall Consignment and Spring consignment. I put them back in the garage and they sit until I'm ready to tag that season. Once I am able to start making my tags and sign up for a sale, I get the boxes down and start going trough them. Anything that isn't stained (or stained lightly enough that I think I can get it clean) goes into the washer for a fresh cleaning. After being washed, I organize them by outfits and make stacks by type clothing (outfits, pjs, swimsuits, etc). I also iron everything (yes, EVERYTHING including pjs and t-shirts!). I hang them as I go so they don't get too wrinkled and pin them at that point. Remember, the appearance of your items is what sells them!
PIN??? What do you mean pin?!
I am all about securing my items on the hangers. Y'all wouldn't believe how many times while I'm browsing the racks I see clothes all over the floors, draped over the racks, and barely hanging on the hangers. Also, as I work inspection I tell people if I think their stuff isn't secure. No one wants to lose their items and not sell! This is one way how you lose items and don't sell things. So, how do I pin??? I use large safety pins (basting pins is what it says on the package) and I secure the items to the hanger by pining each shoulder. If there are pants/shorts with the outfit I secure them to the shoulders as well. Another important tip, sales require that you hang them a certain direction. In our area sales require you to pin like this, with the front of your item will be hung on the hanger in the direction of a question mark. Here are some pictures to show how I hang...
How do you price your items?
After I have everything pinned and hung, I make my tags. Most sales have an online barcode system. These are awesome! It's good because you just type in an item description, price, and size. You can also decide if you want your items reduced to 50% off on the last day or not. I reduce everything. $1.00 is better than nothing or having to take it back again next year! Now, the tricky part to this is how do you price? The rule of thumb is 30% of what it goes for retail. I base it upon the condition, original price, and as I've become a consignment junkie, what I've seen similar items priced. I think I price slightly low, which has probably helped me sell so many items. When you have completed entering your tags, print on white cardstock, and cut to the dimensions the sale requires (yes, that is actually part of the rules). Once they are cut I'm ready to tag, my least favorite part.
How I organize to tag most efficiently
I've tried several methods to tag and I've found this to be the most effective. I go to the most well lit room in my house, which is the playroom in the afternoon, and organize my clothes into piles based upon sizes. I also put my tags in order of sizes and place them next to the appropriate stack. (12 months clothes next to 12 month tags.) I get out a ton of pins and get to work!
I tag one stack at a time, usually starting with the largest size and work my stacks down to the smallest. This helps when loading and unloading to keep them together by size. You will pin the tag on like this...
How do I tag toys and other "loose" items?
I use clear packing tape and lots of it! I clean everything really good and make them look as good as possible. Then, using the tape I tape my tags as nearly as possible in a place where they are easy to see. If it is a toy with multiple pieces, I put the pieces in a baggy and tape the baggy to the largest part of the toy. With diapers that N has outgrown, I place them in large zip lock bags and tape them shut, just like toys.
How do you prep and tag shoes?
I get this question a lot. With the small sizes I use a zip tie and secure them together and place in a baggy. I seal it and tape it shut to help prevent theft (as best it can). This time I had larger shoes, so I secured them the best I could and pinned a tag on them using tape to reinforce my tags (forgot to take a picture of this). I also clean the shoes up as well as I can and pray for them to sale! Shoes are hard because they are usually so worn.
How does drop off work?
Try the best you can to organize everything as well as possible in your car to minimize your time at drop off. (notice that I bartered 7 cases of coke products for a 12 hour volunteer presale shopping pass!)
Always allow yourself about an hour at drop off and I highly, highly recommend going without children. You will check in and sign a consignor contract or whatever paperwork the sale requires. After I've completed the business end of things, I hang all of my items on a rack and get in line to be inspected. I work inspection at JBF every sale and I think this is a very, very essential part to the success of a sale. With that being said, even the best consignor and even the inspectors sometimes get items rejected. I had one piece with a stain that I didn't see at home, but easily seen under the lights there. Don't take it personally if you have pieces rejected and remember for every piece that isn't in a sellable condition, that is one less unacceptable piece you will have to sort through the day of the sale! While your clothes are being inspected, use that time to put your toys, big items, etc on the floor in the appropriate place. There should be signage to let you know where. Shoes will have to be inspected as well, usually separate, so you will have to go through that line too.
I hope this makes sense and answers a lot of questions people may have about the consignor end of things. Yes, it's a lot of work, but it will make you a lot of spending money if you take the time! As you do it sale after sale, you become much more efficient and it gets easier. I notice it taking less time every sale now. I also enlist my mom to help me with my prep and that helps tremendously! She wasn't able to help in the Fall and it wasn't as fast, that's for sure!
Now you are ready to be a super consignor! Good luck! If it is a sale that uses barcodes, don't forget to log in during the sales and check on your sales! I love doing that every morning during the sale!
****This is based upon sales in my area. Note that ALL sales are different, even within the same location. ALWAYS check the rules of your individual sales to prep the most efficiently!
How do I organize and sort my items?
As Nicholas outgrows his clothes I pack them away in large bins marked Fall Consignment and Spring consignment. I put them back in the garage and they sit until I'm ready to tag that season. Once I am able to start making my tags and sign up for a sale, I get the boxes down and start going trough them. Anything that isn't stained (or stained lightly enough that I think I can get it clean) goes into the washer for a fresh cleaning. After being washed, I organize them by outfits and make stacks by type clothing (outfits, pjs, swimsuits, etc). I also iron everything (yes, EVERYTHING including pjs and t-shirts!). I hang them as I go so they don't get too wrinkled and pin them at that point. Remember, the appearance of your items is what sells them!
PIN??? What do you mean pin?!
I am all about securing my items on the hangers. Y'all wouldn't believe how many times while I'm browsing the racks I see clothes all over the floors, draped over the racks, and barely hanging on the hangers. Also, as I work inspection I tell people if I think their stuff isn't secure. No one wants to lose their items and not sell! This is one way how you lose items and don't sell things. So, how do I pin??? I use large safety pins (basting pins is what it says on the package) and I secure the items to the hanger by pining each shoulder. If there are pants/shorts with the outfit I secure them to the shoulders as well. Another important tip, sales require that you hang them a certain direction. In our area sales require you to pin like this, with the front of your item will be hung on the hanger in the direction of a question mark. Here are some pictures to show how I hang...
How do you price your items?
After I have everything pinned and hung, I make my tags. Most sales have an online barcode system. These are awesome! It's good because you just type in an item description, price, and size. You can also decide if you want your items reduced to 50% off on the last day or not. I reduce everything. $1.00 is better than nothing or having to take it back again next year! Now, the tricky part to this is how do you price? The rule of thumb is 30% of what it goes for retail. I base it upon the condition, original price, and as I've become a consignment junkie, what I've seen similar items priced. I think I price slightly low, which has probably helped me sell so many items. When you have completed entering your tags, print on white cardstock, and cut to the dimensions the sale requires (yes, that is actually part of the rules). Once they are cut I'm ready to tag, my least favorite part.
How I organize to tag most efficiently
I've tried several methods to tag and I've found this to be the most effective. I go to the most well lit room in my house, which is the playroom in the afternoon, and organize my clothes into piles based upon sizes. I also put my tags in order of sizes and place them next to the appropriate stack. (12 months clothes next to 12 month tags.) I get out a ton of pins and get to work!
I tag one stack at a time, usually starting with the largest size and work my stacks down to the smallest. This helps when loading and unloading to keep them together by size. You will pin the tag on like this...
How do I tag toys and other "loose" items?
I use clear packing tape and lots of it! I clean everything really good and make them look as good as possible. Then, using the tape I tape my tags as nearly as possible in a place where they are easy to see. If it is a toy with multiple pieces, I put the pieces in a baggy and tape the baggy to the largest part of the toy. With diapers that N has outgrown, I place them in large zip lock bags and tape them shut, just like toys.
How do you prep and tag shoes?
I get this question a lot. With the small sizes I use a zip tie and secure them together and place in a baggy. I seal it and tape it shut to help prevent theft (as best it can). This time I had larger shoes, so I secured them the best I could and pinned a tag on them using tape to reinforce my tags (forgot to take a picture of this). I also clean the shoes up as well as I can and pray for them to sale! Shoes are hard because they are usually so worn.
How does drop off work?
Try the best you can to organize everything as well as possible in your car to minimize your time at drop off. (notice that I bartered 7 cases of coke products for a 12 hour volunteer presale shopping pass!)
Always allow yourself about an hour at drop off and I highly, highly recommend going without children. You will check in and sign a consignor contract or whatever paperwork the sale requires. After I've completed the business end of things, I hang all of my items on a rack and get in line to be inspected. I work inspection at JBF every sale and I think this is a very, very essential part to the success of a sale. With that being said, even the best consignor and even the inspectors sometimes get items rejected. I had one piece with a stain that I didn't see at home, but easily seen under the lights there. Don't take it personally if you have pieces rejected and remember for every piece that isn't in a sellable condition, that is one less unacceptable piece you will have to sort through the day of the sale! While your clothes are being inspected, use that time to put your toys, big items, etc on the floor in the appropriate place. There should be signage to let you know where. Shoes will have to be inspected as well, usually separate, so you will have to go through that line too.
I hope this makes sense and answers a lot of questions people may have about the consignor end of things. Yes, it's a lot of work, but it will make you a lot of spending money if you take the time! As you do it sale after sale, you become much more efficient and it gets easier. I notice it taking less time every sale now. I also enlist my mom to help me with my prep and that helps tremendously! She wasn't able to help in the Fall and it wasn't as fast, that's for sure!
Now you are ready to be a super consignor! Good luck! If it is a sale that uses barcodes, don't forget to log in during the sales and check on your sales! I love doing that every morning during the sale!
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Consignment Shopping Made Easy!
I have shopped consignment sales for 3 years now and only until the last year and a half have I really had a good system to buying. This is my system and what has worked for me, but you may have your own system or find something that works well for you.
How do you I find a sale?
Check http://consignmentmommies.com, your local paper, and even Facebook. Ask your mommy friends which sales they attend and if they have a favorite. My favorite is Just Between Friends (JBF).
What exactly is a consignment sale?
Consignment sales usually have 100s of consignors (mommies) who sign up to bring their gently used children's clothes, gear, toys, baby supplies, etc to the sale. When they drop off, their clothes will go through an inspection and will be carefully inspected for wear and tear, stains, and if they are out of season. Most sales in our area only take spring/summer things right now and the same in the fall. Those items will be hung according to size and gender on racks for you to browse. Toys are also inspected and SHOULD have batteries and be able to be tried out before purchase, same with baby gear. I got these pictures from our local JBF facebook page to show you how the racks look so you are not quite so overwhelmed when you walk in! :-)
How do I plan my shopping spree?
You will want to get there as early as possible before they open. For example, I shop the presale as a volunteer and I can shop at 9am. I will be in line around 8:00-8:15. I strongly suggest consigning or volunteering to get a presale pass. The only downside to presales is that they do not allow children into the sale during the presale. Even if you have to get a babysitter, it is well worth it to shop early! Once the door opens I suggest the following categories in this order:
1. Baby Gear/Furniture. Strollers and Car seats that are good quality go fast. If you need anything like that hurry to that section first.
2. Shoes, especially boy shoes as the quality isn't as good as girls because they are so hard on them.
3. Boys Clothes. Same reason as shoes.
4. Girls Clothes. There tends to be more selection and better quality (judging from what I see when I am volunteering as an inspector).
5. Toys. You may want to bump this up ahead of clothes if you are looking for something specific. Also, at the Fall sales, I put this ahead of shoes because I am looking for good Santa buys and so is everyone else. :-)
6. Books, Puzzles, and Games.
7. Bedding, accessories, feeding and bathing supplies.
Before I get there I plan in my head what I need and what I am willing pay for it. Now that I have shopped the sales as much as I have, I plan my strategy in my head based upon the layout. I also draw an outline of N's foot and cut it out to buy shoes and I take a piece of ribbon and measure his legs for pant length. Makes guessing sizes much easier. I also bring a large utility tote from 31. It is great for keeping my hands free to shop. I also have used a laundry basket and I've seen people use rolling laundry baskets. Check the rules of your sale 1st, some don't allow wheels.
Another picture from our local JBF Facebook to show you the overall picture and why you need to think about how you want to shop before you go.
How do I select clothes?
My number one rule is to be selective and very picky. When I get the size section I plan to shop, I start browsing the rack. I pull everything that I like, but if it has obvious stains or priced too high (even if I love it), I leave it for someone else. When I am finished looking through the racks I sit in a very well lit area and sort the clothes. I make sure nothing has any stains or holes, and I recheck pricing. I do not spend more than a certain amount per brand. For example, $3-5 for Gymboree and Gap, $5-10 for Kelly's Kids, Polo, or boutique brands depending on what it is. The standard is around 30% of what it originally cost retail. I put anything I do not want back on the rack and continue on. This is how my tote looked before I sorted last weekend!
Do they only take cash or can I use my debit card?
Every sale is different. I recommend taking credit, and cash or check if you are unsure.
Are the lines long to check out?
You will stand in line anywhere from a couple of minutes to hours, depending on what time you check out, if it is a presale day, and the size of the sale.
What do I bring with me?
A 31 large utility tote, a bottle of water, a cut out of my child's foot, a ribbon in the length of his leg for pants measurements, a small flashlight if it is sale that I know has crappy lighting (we have one that is notorious for that and when I sort through my stuff I use the flashlight to check for stains), and a cross body purse. I wear tennis shoes and comfortable clothes that allow me to reach to look at top racks and bend down and sit on the floor.
A few other random pieces of advice for you in closing. Some of these women are hardcore and not so nice. I consider myself somewhat hardcore, but I am never rude to other shoppers. There will be some women that push and shove and reach over you, just ignore them, they don't care that they are rude. Also, allow yourself 3 hours minimum the 1st time you go to a large sale. You will need to look around and make it a point to look at everything. You won't believe what you will find and lastly, HAVE FUN!!! It is such a great feeling and a rush to know you are dressing your child cute, but also while saving a ton of money! I promise you will be so glad you went and you will enjoy having a day out! Feel free to leave me a comment if you have any questions about how I shop.
The last installment of this series will be tomorrow...How to Be A Successful Consignor for those of you debating becoming a consignor!
How do you I find a sale?
Check http://consignmentmommies.com, your local paper, and even Facebook. Ask your mommy friends which sales they attend and if they have a favorite. My favorite is Just Between Friends (JBF).
What exactly is a consignment sale?
Consignment sales usually have 100s of consignors (mommies) who sign up to bring their gently used children's clothes, gear, toys, baby supplies, etc to the sale. When they drop off, their clothes will go through an inspection and will be carefully inspected for wear and tear, stains, and if they are out of season. Most sales in our area only take spring/summer things right now and the same in the fall. Those items will be hung according to size and gender on racks for you to browse. Toys are also inspected and SHOULD have batteries and be able to be tried out before purchase, same with baby gear. I got these pictures from our local JBF facebook page to show you how the racks look so you are not quite so overwhelmed when you walk in! :-)
How do I plan my shopping spree?
You will want to get there as early as possible before they open. For example, I shop the presale as a volunteer and I can shop at 9am. I will be in line around 8:00-8:15. I strongly suggest consigning or volunteering to get a presale pass. The only downside to presales is that they do not allow children into the sale during the presale. Even if you have to get a babysitter, it is well worth it to shop early! Once the door opens I suggest the following categories in this order:
1. Baby Gear/Furniture. Strollers and Car seats that are good quality go fast. If you need anything like that hurry to that section first.
2. Shoes, especially boy shoes as the quality isn't as good as girls because they are so hard on them.
3. Boys Clothes. Same reason as shoes.
4. Girls Clothes. There tends to be more selection and better quality (judging from what I see when I am volunteering as an inspector).
5. Toys. You may want to bump this up ahead of clothes if you are looking for something specific. Also, at the Fall sales, I put this ahead of shoes because I am looking for good Santa buys and so is everyone else. :-)
6. Books, Puzzles, and Games.
7. Bedding, accessories, feeding and bathing supplies.
Before I get there I plan in my head what I need and what I am willing pay for it. Now that I have shopped the sales as much as I have, I plan my strategy in my head based upon the layout. I also draw an outline of N's foot and cut it out to buy shoes and I take a piece of ribbon and measure his legs for pant length. Makes guessing sizes much easier. I also bring a large utility tote from 31. It is great for keeping my hands free to shop. I also have used a laundry basket and I've seen people use rolling laundry baskets. Check the rules of your sale 1st, some don't allow wheels.
Another picture from our local JBF Facebook to show you the overall picture and why you need to think about how you want to shop before you go.
How do I select clothes?
My number one rule is to be selective and very picky. When I get the size section I plan to shop, I start browsing the rack. I pull everything that I like, but if it has obvious stains or priced too high (even if I love it), I leave it for someone else. When I am finished looking through the racks I sit in a very well lit area and sort the clothes. I make sure nothing has any stains or holes, and I recheck pricing. I do not spend more than a certain amount per brand. For example, $3-5 for Gymboree and Gap, $5-10 for Kelly's Kids, Polo, or boutique brands depending on what it is. The standard is around 30% of what it originally cost retail. I put anything I do not want back on the rack and continue on. This is how my tote looked before I sorted last weekend!
Do they only take cash or can I use my debit card?
Every sale is different. I recommend taking credit, and cash or check if you are unsure.
Are the lines long to check out?
You will stand in line anywhere from a couple of minutes to hours, depending on what time you check out, if it is a presale day, and the size of the sale.
What do I bring with me?
A 31 large utility tote, a bottle of water, a cut out of my child's foot, a ribbon in the length of his leg for pants measurements, a small flashlight if it is sale that I know has crappy lighting (we have one that is notorious for that and when I sort through my stuff I use the flashlight to check for stains), and a cross body purse. I wear tennis shoes and comfortable clothes that allow me to reach to look at top racks and bend down and sit on the floor.
A few other random pieces of advice for you in closing. Some of these women are hardcore and not so nice. I consider myself somewhat hardcore, but I am never rude to other shoppers. There will be some women that push and shove and reach over you, just ignore them, they don't care that they are rude. Also, allow yourself 3 hours minimum the 1st time you go to a large sale. You will need to look around and make it a point to look at everything. You won't believe what you will find and lastly, HAVE FUN!!! It is such a great feeling and a rush to know you are dressing your child cute, but also while saving a ton of money! I promise you will be so glad you went and you will enjoy having a day out! Feel free to leave me a comment if you have any questions about how I shop.
The last installment of this series will be tomorrow...How to Be A Successful Consignor for those of you debating becoming a consignor!
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Little Sickie
We have a little sickie at our house right now. :-( My sweet boy was sent home from school yesterday with what appeared to be pink eye on the left. We had a rough night with a fever, tossing and turning and crying a lot. Anytime we asked him to see his eye, this is what he did. It hurt to open it and this is how he looked almost all night.
I had already volunteered to work an inspection shift at the consignment sale tonight, so I had to take him to my dad at 4:00 and rush over to the sale to work my shift. They told me he wasn't himself and didn't play as much as usual. Again, not a good sign when it comes to our busy little toddler!
He will be out of school at least one more day, so it looks like tomorrow he will go to my parents house for Camp Pawpaw while I go back to work. I'm sad to have to leave my sick little man, but this is NOT a good week for me to be out, so I have to go back tomorrow. I'm just thankful my dad is home to keep him tomorrow. Hopefully he will be much better by then and able to return to school for Friday.
He woke up this morning and saying his eye hurt and "I see doctor NOW because my eye hurts!". His right eye was swollen, but the left was almost swollen shut and matted together. We went to see the pediatrician this morning and it looks like he has pink eye in both eyes, a sinus infection, and an ear infection. It never fails, he almost always gets sick on a Tuesday evening and our pediatrician is off on Wednesdays. We have seen one of her partner three times now and I really like him. I'm so thankful that our practice has such good doctors to cover for each other that I never mind seeing anyone else.
It was 35 degrees and snowing when we left the pediatrician's office, but I was the crazy lady at the Chick-Fil-A ordering an ice cream cone for my toddler. He refused to eat or drink anything this morning, but he wanted an "ice keme cooooone" so I gave in. He is sick, so whatever goes! So, I ordered my toddler an ice keme coooooone and a chicken tortilla soup for me. Ha!
It was 35 degrees and snowing when we left the pediatrician's office, but I was the crazy lady at the Chick-Fil-A ordering an ice cream cone for my toddler. He refused to eat or drink anything this morning, but he wanted an "ice keme cooooone" so I gave in. He is sick, so whatever goes! So, I ordered my toddler an ice keme coooooone and a chicken tortilla soup for me. Ha!
I've had some not so good experiences lately with the chain pharmacies in our town, but I've been hearing excellent reviews about our local hometown pharmacy, so I tried it out today. My experience there could not have been better! I am sold and plan to transfer all of our prescriptions there soon! If you have a local pharmacy that isn't a chain, try it out! We got our eye drops, albuterol, and antibiotic and on our way in 10 minutes! SOLD!
We came home and sweet boy rested on the couch watching Disney (again, who has rules on sick days! Unlimited TV time today, judge away!) while I picked up the house. He had a little Cars chicken noodle soup and is resting again. Anytime my little man doesn't move for more than 10 minutes, consider him sick! Ha!
I had already volunteered to work an inspection shift at the consignment sale tonight, so I had to take him to my dad at 4:00 and rush over to the sale to work my shift. They told me he wasn't himself and didn't play as much as usual. Again, not a good sign when it comes to our busy little toddler!
He will be out of school at least one more day, so it looks like tomorrow he will go to my parents house for Camp Pawpaw while I go back to work. I'm sad to have to leave my sick little man, but this is NOT a good week for me to be out, so I have to go back tomorrow. I'm just thankful my dad is home to keep him tomorrow. Hopefully he will be much better by then and able to return to school for Friday.
Why Consignment Shopping Is Awesome For Us
Hi, I'm Amanda and I am a consignment sale addict. I love filling my 31 tote with brand name clothes at 75-90% off retail. It is currently consignment season across the country and I know a few of you are on the fence about the subject. I see and hear a lot of mixed reactions when I tell people I buy 90% of Nicholas' clothes consignment. There are some serious judgies out there regarding the issue and I wanted to write a post to explain why I love it so much.
I am the 1st to admit that when I was pregnant and my friends were telling me that I just HAD to check out this one sale, I was not sure I wanted to buy my baby "used" clothing or gear. I was a snob about it and thought of it as something I would never do. My mom and I went to the first time mom's presale and we quickly became hooked! We found so many cute things for less than we could have bought them brand new retail. I expected dirty, worn items, but that was not the case. Some things even had tags on them and had never been worn! Sales are picky these days and everything is inspected for stains and wear at the door. The sale's reputation is on the line and quality of the items they accept is important to them.
I started shopping consignment thinking of it as "school or play clothes", but soon I started buying almost an entire wardrobe of baby clothes this way. I was seeing Kelly's Kids, Polo, Gymboree, and Gap for less than $5 an outfit and in excellent used condition. To me it isn't any different than when someone uses hand-me-downs for a 2nd child. Actually in most cases, the condition is better. I am very, very picky and selective when I go to a sale and I have a list of things I do to decide if it is the quality and price I want to buy. No, I do not know the people I am buying from, but I always go straight home and wash everything and Lysol all of the toys and shoes. I do not know anyone that has caught anything from buying used clothes! :-)
Nicholas is a messy child. He plays hard and eats like a toddler. I don't want to spend $35 on a shirt from the Kelly's Kids catalog when I can get one next year for $5-10 at a sale and if he ruins it the 1st time out, I didn't just waste $35. Same goes for Polo, Gymboree and Gap. I found a pair of Polo navy shorts at a sale last month for $15, but they are brand new, with tags still on them. A savings from retail and it won't be nearly as traumatic for me if he gets something on them that won't come off. Here are a couple of examples of outfits I've bought him at consignment sales.
So, how do you get started shopping consignment sales and how do you become a "smart shopper"? Both of those questions will be answered in my next post, Consignment Shopping 101, coming tomorrow. :-)
I am the 1st to admit that when I was pregnant and my friends were telling me that I just HAD to check out this one sale, I was not sure I wanted to buy my baby "used" clothing or gear. I was a snob about it and thought of it as something I would never do. My mom and I went to the first time mom's presale and we quickly became hooked! We found so many cute things for less than we could have bought them brand new retail. I expected dirty, worn items, but that was not the case. Some things even had tags on them and had never been worn! Sales are picky these days and everything is inspected for stains and wear at the door. The sale's reputation is on the line and quality of the items they accept is important to them.
I started shopping consignment thinking of it as "school or play clothes", but soon I started buying almost an entire wardrobe of baby clothes this way. I was seeing Kelly's Kids, Polo, Gymboree, and Gap for less than $5 an outfit and in excellent used condition. To me it isn't any different than when someone uses hand-me-downs for a 2nd child. Actually in most cases, the condition is better. I am very, very picky and selective when I go to a sale and I have a list of things I do to decide if it is the quality and price I want to buy. No, I do not know the people I am buying from, but I always go straight home and wash everything and Lysol all of the toys and shoes. I do not know anyone that has caught anything from buying used clothes! :-)
Nicholas is a messy child. He plays hard and eats like a toddler. I don't want to spend $35 on a shirt from the Kelly's Kids catalog when I can get one next year for $5-10 at a sale and if he ruins it the 1st time out, I didn't just waste $35. Same goes for Polo, Gymboree and Gap. I found a pair of Polo navy shorts at a sale last month for $15, but they are brand new, with tags still on them. A savings from retail and it won't be nearly as traumatic for me if he gets something on them that won't come off. Here are a couple of examples of outfits I've bought him at consignment sales.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Overdue Brain Dump
It's been awhile since I did a brain dump, so here goes.
1. I'm so ready for Spring. I'm ready for warmer, longer days that allow for us to play outside in the evening, and for grilling out! This weekend is Spring forward and it's supposed to be nice outside, so expect a weekend wrap up with lots of playtime pictures on Sunday!
2. I have been reading Disney planning books lately, but I'm ready to take a break from them for awhile. Any suggestions for a good, easy read?
3. We took Nicholas to a hibachi restaurant a couple of weeks ago and I've decided that is the best "free" entertainment ever! I felt like we almost needed to pay the chef extra for a babysitting fee. This was him as he watched the chef juggle eggs. Ha!
4. Nicholas and I have begun planning his 3rd birthday party! How is that even possible?! He has been telling me some things he wants and doesn't want. We have spent 2 nights looking at Pinterest and getting ideas. His main request...chocolate cupcakes! Apparently that is the number one priority to my almost 3 year old! Probably because he isn't allowed to eat a lot of sweets and he knows parties are the one exception. Haha!
5. I have become hooked on the TV show Scandal! I have actually dreamed about it I've become so obsessed with watching it! Haha! Now my TV watching has grown to include Dallas, Nashville, and Scandal. I can't get enough of any of them. I need them all to be 2 hours each week. One hour isn't getting it for me.
6. I had a couple of people ask me about Nicholas' new car seat. It is a Graco nautilus 3-in-1. It is forward facing only and it has a high back, 5-point restraint until 65 pounds then the back comes off to accommodate him until 100 pounds. I love that it will last him so long...at which time I am hoping they have one to accommodate him forever. :-) I am all about car seats and helmets! My pet peeves are older kids still under the recommended size not in a booster seat and kids without helmets. They may not be "cool", but they can save your child's life!
7. I lived in the sun in my teens and 20s, I am stressed and tired 99% of the time and have developed a serious problem...tired, puffy eyes with nasty dark circles. HELP ME!!!! What is a good anti aging product and what is a good eye concealer?
1. I'm so ready for Spring. I'm ready for warmer, longer days that allow for us to play outside in the evening, and for grilling out! This weekend is Spring forward and it's supposed to be nice outside, so expect a weekend wrap up with lots of playtime pictures on Sunday!
2. I have been reading Disney planning books lately, but I'm ready to take a break from them for awhile. Any suggestions for a good, easy read?
3. We took Nicholas to a hibachi restaurant a couple of weeks ago and I've decided that is the best "free" entertainment ever! I felt like we almost needed to pay the chef extra for a babysitting fee. This was him as he watched the chef juggle eggs. Ha!
4. Nicholas and I have begun planning his 3rd birthday party! How is that even possible?! He has been telling me some things he wants and doesn't want. We have spent 2 nights looking at Pinterest and getting ideas. His main request...chocolate cupcakes! Apparently that is the number one priority to my almost 3 year old! Probably because he isn't allowed to eat a lot of sweets and he knows parties are the one exception. Haha!
5. I have become hooked on the TV show Scandal! I have actually dreamed about it I've become so obsessed with watching it! Haha! Now my TV watching has grown to include Dallas, Nashville, and Scandal. I can't get enough of any of them. I need them all to be 2 hours each week. One hour isn't getting it for me.
6. I had a couple of people ask me about Nicholas' new car seat. It is a Graco nautilus 3-in-1. It is forward facing only and it has a high back, 5-point restraint until 65 pounds then the back comes off to accommodate him until 100 pounds. I love that it will last him so long...at which time I am hoping they have one to accommodate him forever. :-) I am all about car seats and helmets! My pet peeves are older kids still under the recommended size not in a booster seat and kids without helmets. They may not be "cool", but they can save your child's life!
7. I lived in the sun in my teens and 20s, I am stressed and tired 99% of the time and have developed a serious problem...tired, puffy eyes with nasty dark circles. HELP ME!!!! What is a good anti aging product and what is a good eye concealer?
Sunday, March 3, 2013
Weekend Wrap Up
We have had a fun, but busy weekend (but what's new?). Friday night we were literally wiped out. Nicholas and I got home around 5:30 and it was the earliest we had been home all week. I had worked until 5:30 a couple of nights and I had a total of 4 meetings plus my usual work. It was a draining week to say the least. We ordered pizza, I had on my pjs by 6:30 and Nicholas begged for a bath by 6:45. That was a sign to me he was TIRED! He never wants a bath, much less asks to take one! Haha! This is how I spent my evening...under a Cars blanket watching Family Man on Bravo with my wine and cheese. Perfect!
Yesterday morning we woke up to a very light dusting of snow on our house and yard. It melted so fast I didn't get picture of it, but it was the most we had all season. :-( It is so crazy that on March 2, 2012 we had tornadoes and on March 2, 2013, we had snow! That's just an example of how the weather is in Chattanooga, Tennessee! Next weekend is high 60s and sunshine!
I ended up with $129 worth of Gymboree, Polo, Kelly's Kids, Gap, and Children's Place for around $600 off of retail! I plan to do a consignment series over the next few weeks showing how I prepare to sell, shop, and why it is not tacky or cheap, but smart to buy your kids "used" clothing. This was my Kelly's Kids find! Only $21 for all 3 items! Not too shabby!
Today we ended up sleeping in and going out for a late breakfast. I got ready while the boys got ready and when we met up in the kitchen, this is what I saw. I love them!
After we ate we stopped in at Walmart for a new big boy car seat. We got a Recaro Como convertible seat as a shower gift when we had Nicholas, but it was almost too small and Nicholas' head was actually taller than the seat! He had been using it since he was 8.5 months old (he moved out of his Chicco keyfit at 21 pounds) and it has been a great seat. I am sad to retire it to the garage, but we have to keep our little man safe! He is the proud new owner of a Graco Nautilus. I love that it will grow with him as long as he needs a car seat and booster. If you are in the market for a new seat, Walmart has it on sale for $129!!!! (it still needs to be latched in and the straps adjusted, but I can't believe I now have a big boy seat behind me!)
I spent the afternoon tagging for the big consignment sale this drop off this week and loading it all in my car. I still have a couple of baby items to tag and load, but this is most of my loot (plus the cokes I bartered for an early shopping pass!).
My boys are watching Monsters, Inc and I need to get to folding laundry, no more procrastination. Good times around here! Ha! Hope everyone else had a good weekend! We sure did!
On the note of 60s and sunshine, I had not purchased a single warm weather clothing item for Nicholas yet. I have been holding out on the consignment sales and honestly, I haven't been to a clothing store since Christmas! I am proud of myself for keeping away for 2 months! Ha! Well, yesterday was the 2nd sale I have been to this consignment season (the 1st was a dud) and I racked up! My friend Amy and I met up after we shopped and this is what my 31 tote looked like...
My boys are watching Monsters, Inc and I need to get to folding laundry, no more procrastination. Good times around here! Ha! Hope everyone else had a good weekend! We sure did!
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