Mom 2 Mom Blogger

2011-12-08T13:06:00.000-08:00

2 Deals on the LeapPad

2011-11-10T12:28:00.000-08:00

Vendors Craft Shows and Mom 2 Mom Sales

2011-11-08T10:18:00.000-08:00

If you are a vendor that attends Craft Shows, or Mom 2 Mom Sales, please send me a note. I'm collecting inquires for an upcoming sale.

Upcoming Craft Shows for November 12th and 19th weekend

2011-11-08T10:11:00.001-08:00

Nov. 12 Warren Community Center: Craft Show 9-4 FREE Admission. 5460 Arden Drive
Warren, MI 586-268-8400, cityofwarren.org

Nov. 12 St. Clair Shores: Craft Show; 9-4; St. Germaine School, 28250 Rockwood; 586-944-3283, SGcraftshow@hotmail.com

Nov. 12 Clinton Twp: Chippewa Valley H.S. Band Boosters Holiday Craft Show; 10-4; 19 Mile (west of Romeo Plank); $2, no strollers; cvhsbandprogram@gmail.com or 586-713-8888

Nov. 12 Roseville: Church Bazaar; 10-3; Trinity United Methodist Church, 18303 Common; 586-776-8828

Nov. 12 Sterling Heights: Craft Show; 9 am; St. Thomas Lutheran Church, 8771 E. 15; 586-268-2170

Nov. 19 St. Clair Shores: Craft Show; 9-4; St. Gertrude Activity Center, 28839 Jefferson; 586-524-7224

Nov. 19-20 Warren: Crafty Buyers Shoppe; Warren Woods Tower High School, 27900 Bunert; 586-439-4402

Silent Sales Machine hiding on eBay

2011-09-22T09:13:00.001-07:00

Click Here! to read more about the Secret Sales Machine that is literally hiding on eBay. You will be amazed at how easy it is to implement. Stay at Home Moms or anyone else that wants to tap into an extra income stream.

Super Cute handmade card idea

2011-02-01T06:08:00.000-08:00

GYMBOREE IS THE HOTTEST SELLING CHILDREN'S LINE SECRETS TO SAVING BIG!

2010-09-01T13:25:00.000-07:00

As a mom of two little pumpkins, and compulsive shopper in my former life, I still love to be up on the trends in kids fashions and because of this, I have found one of the HOTTEST selling line’s on EBay, Gymboree. I have to tell you I shopped most online and at Mom 2 Mom Sales. I'm passing along a story my friend had told me about secrets of Gymboree Sales!

See, I have a girlfriend, that lives in California where most of Gymboree is based out of an concept stores are located. I’ve gotten a little bit of the inside scoop through her as she chats with the Sales Associates in those stores. Gymboree has changed over the years and now is the highest demand of kids clothes out there now, that everyone wants. Its so bright, cheerful, I absolutely love it.

Since I started shopping at Gymboree, everyone tells me I am a walking bill board for them. I can’t tell you how much I love their products, it is not just that they are cute and stylish, and at a great price line, it is that they are preshrunk, (so if you are like me and not too great with laundry) there is no way you can shrink any of their clothes. I can not tell you how fast my son out grew wearing a “onsie”, anyhow someone gave him a 2T one and I thought let me try it, It FIT…. I could not believe it, a onsie that fit my son, yeah. So needless to say this was a big selling point for me. Than there is the pant, the ones that button and zip, well inside the pants they have an extender inside, so as your little one grows in their waist the pants grow with them, no more wearing once and can not use it anymore. So this is how I got so wrapped up in Gymboree.

After owning a children’s Boutique for several years, I decided to start selling on EBay, especially a lot of my son’s clothes that were brand new or worn once type things, I started to sell them. Well than I started to research a lot of “big” sellers or in “demand” type items in the kids categories, and I found that Gymboree was a very popular item, so I did a lot of research and buying and I started to resell Gymboree items on EBay and starting making a great profit, not only a great profit, but needless to say I have all my sons new clothes basically paid for by my sales on EBay, and it is fun. Now I will tell you, you can’t make everyone happy, that is just the way the world is, but for the most part, you make a lot of the people who buy from you happy, so it is worth it, on ends, yours and theirs.

Gymboree every year comes out with many "themed" lines, all VERY lovely with lots of mix and matches. The quality is Awesome! As a mom, I can vouch for that! In many cases though, some of the pieces get sold out faster than others and the lines close out. Many times over, moms and grandmother's go to Auctions or the internet in search for
that piece or pieces to complete that outfit. So, once that line is sold out and is
gone-it is gone!!!!! It's almost like a "collection or an addiction". So, the story is simply this....EBAY and other auction websites are fun and an easy way to for the buyer to locate old lines of Gymboree or a piece that might be sold out in their store area! And trust me when I say people will search for that item or items to complete their collection or outfit, all the time on EBay just waiting for it to come up for auction, or better yet for them to be able to but it at a “buy it now” price.
Let me tell you who is going to be your next Best Fiend, the Manager and the assistant manager’s at your local Gymboree, see once you become nice with them and they see you shopping, ever so often, they really start being friendly with you. I not only have great connections with in the Gymboree Corporation, but at both my local Gymboree’s the manager’s both will call me when they are having a sale. Like recently, one of them had found a box of last summers clothing lines, and she couldn’t do anything with them, so she called me and asked if I would be interested, and of course I was, so she ended up selling most item’s to me for $1.50 to $1.99, an item, we are talking about stuff that retailed for $34.00 for $1.99, what a deal. Any how they just know that I have some sort of consignment store and they don’t care what I do with the stuff they just want to get rid of it. This happens a lot. I will tell you to introduce yourself to the manager’s and just say “hey if you ever have stuff from last Christmas, summer, spring, sitting around in back, or if you find anything than let me know, I am very interested in buying it”. This is a great and I mean great way of buying at a cheap price to resell on EBay or if you want to keep for own Children, but this is the biggest way to make money right here.

One of the other big sales that Gymboree does id the “Red Hot Dot Sale”, this sale usually happens twice a year, and this is a good one. I know for a fact that one is always and I mean always started on the day after Christmas and than the other one is usually in June or July. It is a big sale, because everything that is on sale or goes on sale is like 60% off and they really want to get rid of this stuff, because if they don’t, then it ends up in that box, you know the one I just told you about, that someone like me or yourself may end up buying for $1.99 or even $.99. So the Red Hot Dot Sale is a big Sale.

Every month Gymboree comes out with new clothing lines, this making it kind of easier to figure out what and when things go on sale. Once a line is released for public to buy, usually it takes anywhere from three to five weeks for that line to be marked down, and let me say when Gymboree starts marking things down, they get marked way down.
Let me start off with saying every three to four months, Gymboree runs their Gymbucks promotion, this is were for every $50.00 you spend you get a Gymbuck good for $25.00 off your next purchase to use during Gymbuck days which are always a later date (usually 2 months later) . Obviously the way these work is the more money you spend the more Gymbucks you get and can use later to buy for yourself or use to resell. This is one way of buying at a cheaper price and saving money, usually what I do is during the “earn the gymbuck” period I buy a whole bunch of stuff, because usually they are having some other type of sale at the same time, like back in November they had earn Gymbucks, but also the entire store was 20% off purchase and they were having a huge sale, so it was madness, but a great shopping experience.

Let me tell you too, when they are having a huge sale and stuff is like $.99 to $4.99 and this does happen where they put out barrel type things with shoes and stuff in it, anyway it is really exciting and if you are like me you will just start grabbing, anyway people will look at you like what the heck and they may ask what you are doing, if you want you can tell them, I always say I have a consignment store and I am just stocking up on item’s. It is totally up to you how to react, but people will ask, and I am talking about other customers, not the Gymboree employees, they usually don’t care they just want you to buy so they can have the sales towards their sale goal for that day.

A couple of tools I will have for you to use, one is their websites. I encourage you to sign up on the Gymboree website for their newsletter; this newsletter always informs you of special sales, promotions, and new line information. This is a great way to stay on top of lines, the names, etc., and a great way to stay informed of sales. I will tell you that once in awhile Gymboree will surprise its customer’s with a one day type sale and you won’t know about it if the Manager doesn’t call you, or you are not registered on the website. Now I will also tell you that if you have a Gymboree Visa card (I am not encouraging in anyway, but they do have benefits) or if you are interested in one, they have like every first Tuesday of the month a discount for card holders, or sometimes you get some sort of cash back, look into if you are interested, this is another method to save money when buying their products. I highly recommend and I use a website at www.gymbohaven.com, Amy the founder or owner of the website is AWESOME, she is so full of information, her website is kind of cheesy but if gives all the insight, sign up for her newsletter, she is always emailing out secret sales or new line previews coming, all sorts of info, also she has information about all the Gymboree Outlet’s, which I have not gotten into yet, but guess what? They are out there….. All over the place. The next website is www.gymboreenews.com, this website has extensive pictures to help you get names of lines, and use their photos versus you having to take all the pictures and hosting yourself when selling. Some websites like Gymboreenews, has a subscription fee of I think it is $3.00 a month, I have done fine without paying that, but if you really want to boost sales and touch out to every source out there, than go ahead and do it. Now here goes the fun part of it all, when ever Gymboree has a sale and you know it is on (example date) but like the Red Hot Dot Sale on December 26 well guess what you can buy online on December 25 and get all those sale prices along with if you spend over $100.00 free shipping, unless they are having spend over $75.00 and get free shipping. How cool is that, get the sale price, buy from home, and delivered to your door, and you didn’t even have to go to the mall with the madness the day after Christmas. This applies to using Gymbucks you get to do it starting a 12am online, so you get first dibs, it is great. Some of the other resources I found are going to www.Craigslist.org, and I have now found a lot of people selling Gymbucks or Gymboree credits on their classifieds listings, under the baby and kids section. Also if you get Gymbucks and know that you are not going to use all of them or you don’t want to use all of them, sell them on EBay, I did that during the last Gymbuck redemption and made a good amount of money on something I pretty much got for free. Always look also on EBay for Gymbucks or Gymboree credits; it is a great way to buy for a little less money.

I will share with you that the Girl’s items sell a lot better than boy’s, however since everyone seems to sell Girl’s item’s on EBay every time I have sold a Boy’s lot it sells very fast and for a good amount of profit, so I definitely recommend doing a boys lot once in awhile.

Throughout the United States there are Gymboree Outlets all over, I may not be that close to you, but it may be worth a bit of a drive, They just opened one about an hour from my home and I finally went to it this is what I found. All lines either current or past line at incredibly cheap prices, I am talking about items that maybe were released around Thanksgiving maybe $2.99 to $6.99 per item, I know it is crazy and I am telling you, you will go crazy and it is a great way to stock up. On the two websites that on the two websites that I provided for you the www.gymbohaven.com, and www.gymboreenews.com both provide excellent information on outlets. I will tell you that if you ask your local Gymboree about outlets, they usually act like they don’t know about them or they are not that helpful on giving information, let’s just put it that way.

So now I have given you all this information on how and where to buy Gymboree and there really is “NO BUYING WHOLESALE GYMBOREE” out there, please do not be fooled by other EBay auctioneers with saying there is, because there is not, now is how to figure out how to sell and make a profit the best way you can on EBay. I know a lot of people out there sell “lots” of Gymboree, this is it can be a variety of items from a full outfit to hat, shoes, or hair stuff, it all varies on the lot and how it is listed. First I need to explain a few definitions to you the first one was a lot, the second is FULL RETAIL VALUE or FRV Full retail value is not the price that you paid for it, it is the original sticker price, for example you purchased a t-shirt for $2.99, but the original price or the FULL RETAIL VALUE is $19.50, that is how a full retail value works. NWT stands for New with tags, NWOT, stands for New without tags .So let me explain selling lot’s to you let’s say this is what you have:
Item Price you paid Full retail value
Shirt $3.99 $26.00
Pants $2.99 $32.00
Swimsuit $3.99 $28.00
Hat $.99 $14.50
Socks $1.49 $6.00

TOTAL $13.36 $132.50

So this means you spent $13.36 on five items that you can turn around and sell for a full retail value of $132.50. So here is what I would do with this, I would sell as a lot; here is my example for you.
NWT Gymboree Girl’s lot FRV $125.00----------Title
New with tags, is this great girl’s lot from Gymboree, the brand that everyone loves. This action is for a full retail value of $125.00 plus a bonus (the bonus is that extra $7.50 you have left over to make your full retail value $132.50) this lot will be from summer, spring and winter lines, sizes vary from newborn to (whatever)
I did this very generic to just give you a general idea of how to describe you can either give a lot of information or just general information. I tend to use general information and not promise exact items for two reason’s, one is because I buy so much and never know what I will put together, and two if you put specifics people start becoming very demanding and it can become a pain. Plus I guarantee that you will get so many messages in your inbox regarding the lot that you will have listed. So once you get the hang of listing you can add things to your listing, I do recommend that you ad a designer listing or border to your listing, and also put a fixed shipping price in the auction for your shipping costs, I will cover those later also, but people will consistently email you questions about shipping, so put an amount on that listing so you don’t have to keep responding to those emails. Now you are probably wondering how much money you can make off this $125.00 lot, well lot’s that are around this price usually sell anywhere from $35.00 to $90.00 so it is pretty open on the amount of money you can make. I also suggest starting with $60.00 or $80.00 lot’s if you are new to doing this, it is just a good way to start, however if you want go for the bigger amounts. I would also start this listing with a starting bid of $19.99, so you already covering the amount of money you paid for those item’s, and your listing fee. I guarantee, if you use all these tools, and apply them, you will sell your listings for a profit.

The second way of selling your Gymboree items are to list an outfit together or an item on it’s own, listing it exactly the way I explained with the lot’s, but I do recommend with an outfit or individual item of not only doing a starting bid but also offer a Buy it now for the buyers, nine times out of ten someone will do a buy it now.

I will tell you before I learned how to buy Gymboree stuff at these low, low prices, I did buy several lot’s of Gymboree stuff. It was a great way to get stated into the world of Gymboree, but I do know now that this way of buying, has way more potential to be a money maker, rather than buying on EBay. You save so much money by not paying shipping charges and at least when you go out and shop than you are picking out what you want, versus someone else.

The first thing that I usually do when I buy a big lot of stuff from Gymboree is start an excel spread sheet. I put the name of the item the amount I paid for it, than what the actual retail value is. By doing this not only am I keeping track of my items but it also does an automatic tally of how much money it is worth, than from there I build my lot’s from that. It is a lot easier to do and it is all kept in one place, which trust me when I say being organized makes a big difference.

Listing fees totally vary but after I have done a lot of research and red a lot of EBay selling books this is how the power sellers make there money without putting money out. When listing fees occur, they recommend adding a couple of dollars to shipping and handling charges to cover your EBay listing and final value fees, this is totally up to you. If you have a lot that you are selling, Like the example above I would say shipping charges will be $8.95, that means you probably will ship it for $4.05, which is priority and than the rest will cover your costs and the buyer won’t question it, but if you have a pair of newborn pants and shipping is $8.95 I don’t think the item will sell, and people will send you mean emails and it just doesn’t work, so use your own discretion on it. I rarely do this unless I am selling a big lot or a large item.

One thing I highly recommend is that you sign up if you already do not have one, a paypal account. It makes receiving payments a lot faster and easier than having people send you money through the mail. I am not saying you have to do it, but I have found by giving a deadline in my actual auction listings of when payment is due, than people pay it right away. When I have not done that than people just take their time in paying you, and honestly if you really start selling a lot of stuff than it gets confusing of who had paid and who hasn’t and so on and so forth. I highly recommend just putting a time limit on accepting payments.

Some of the shipping methods I use are either USPS priority or USPS parcel post. Just a few months ago I discovered that I can actually pay and print shipping labels through paypal and a link to the USPS. It is great. If you go to your local post office or go online to www.usps.com than you can pick up free envelopes and boxes for priority and global priority shipping, along with packaging tape for priority shipping, all free to you. You can even arrange for the USPS to come pick up your outgoing mail that is if you didn’t want to go to the post office yourself. Also if you do it this way and pay, print and go to the post office to drop off, never and I mean NEVER stand in line again, you can just hand it to them and go on with your life. If you do this online, you get free delivery confirmation and you can track online if need be, and the recipient gets an email that their package was sent out. This is so easy to do; I will never go back to the old way of shipping again.

Overall, I know if you take this information and really apply it, either exactly how I do, or put your twist on things, you are sure to be successful. Does your research too, do searches on EBay and see the wording that people use in their auctions, seeing which auctions are getting more bids, than other’s, and see what items are “Hot” items that people are looking for. Do not be afraid to ask a lot of questions at the Gymboree stores to the employees or Manager’s that is why they are there. Remember Gymboree was started as a family business; they try and maintain that image. I am always monitoring EBay and seeing what the HOTTEST Gymboree item out there is, and trying to get them myself. So take this information and go shop and make money and most of all have fun doing it.

Interview Questions / Answers Help 911

2010-03-18T20:30:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share a great eBook my sister showed me that she found online. If you are looking to get back into the job market now and brush up your skills this is a must have resource. Quickly download online! I highly recommend.

Click Here!

Party City $10 off $30 Coupon Expires 3/31/10

2010-03-17T12:49:00.000-07:00

Best Infant Toys for Christmas 2009 Ages 6 - 12 months

2009-12-08T12:01:00.000-08:00

Here are some last minute great toy ideas that you can buy online from www.amazon.com with free shipping!

As a mom, I wish I had this list of great toys last year when originally shopping for my daughter who was 9 months old last year during the holidays.

Now, a year later I have an Irish Twin who is 9 months old too, but a little boy. These are the toys that are tried and true that the kids love playing with!

I hope this short list helps all the moms, dads, grandmas, grandpas, and aunts/uncles out there shopping for gift ideas.
http://www.squidoo.com/InfantToys2009

Avons Winter 2009 Fashion featured on TheRecessionista.com!

2009-11-20T20:16:00.000-08:00

Avons Winter 2009 Fashion featured on TheRecessionista.com!

Free Scrapbook Quotes and Saying eBook GR8T for Crafters

2009-11-07T23:14:00.000-08:00

Free Collection of quotes and sayings in a downloadable eBook for all you crafters out there. Great idea generaters, and awesome for journaling in scrapbooks, or for making handmade cards. Free Scrapbook eBook Download Click Here

Save with AVON & Support a Cause - Reese Witherspoon!

2009-10-15T10:12:00.000-07:00

Save Money on Baby Formula and More

2009-07-20T09:22:00.000-07:00

Baby Formula Checks in the Mail… $5, $11, $20 and More!
It seems more and more everyone is referring to Craigslist for anything and everything lately, and baby formula is no exception.
Mothers and others are trading Baby Formula checks to collect the brand they really need, or trade for cash, formula rebates or other coupons.
I really wish I knew about this for my first child. You can save a ton by persistently keeping up with the trades.
Here’s an example of how you can maximize savings
First, ensure you have signed up for all Formula welcome programs Online.
www.enfamil.com
www.goodstart.com
www.similac.com
You can even ask your Mom or Sister to do this on your behalf so you have more samples and coupons coming your way.
Cost Savings Calculation:
Formula $24.58/ 23 Ounce Can (approx)….. Retail,
Sale $22.99, less $5.00 Check Coupon = $17.99
Often times Grocery Stores allow you to use more than one of the Manufacturer Checks for Infant Formula so you may be able to continue to realize additional savings depending on your store and location

New Mom’s Online Sign-up Check-list for Free Stuff, Coupons, Rebates and More Must-Have Goodies
www.gerber.com

Write letters. As new Mom’s have at least 6 weeks to recouperate after pregnancy, you should make the most of it by planning tasks to complete during your time off.
Start your own product review. Why not evaluate all the baby gear you begin using on your newborn and send letters to each particular company. You will probably get coupons or free samples in return.
This is especially easy with children’s food.
For example, if you have older children who enjoy a particular food product, why not write a letter to the company explaining how great their snacks, are and you feel good about feeding your child healthy snacks. You get the idea. You will receive a thank you letter in return and most likely some coupons for free product or samples.

Garage Sale Secrets - Some Tips Revealed!

2009-06-02T19:15:00.000-07:00

Garage Sale Secrets from a family of Sassy Garage Sale Girls!

Yes, we admit we are sassy garage sale shoppers and sellers. Always in the know about the absolute best garage sales to shop, and best way to merchandise your sale, to maximize profits. Today is your lucky day as we are going to tell all so you avoid these mistakes.

Up until 2 a.m. the night before pricing items or didn’t finish
Waited until the morning of to finish signs
Waited until the day before to start setting up
Did not advertise, just hoped people would see your sign and stop
Only put one sign out at the end of your driveway and street
Did not get enough change ready

Some women in our family secretively shop at garage sales and never tell their friends how they acquire their fabulous finds. But now in today's economy its actually the in thing to save $$.

In fact, I remember being totally embarrassed to be seen going to garage sales and being the house that had a garage sale when I was growing up. That was around age 12, and now 20 years later I’m learning that the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree! I sometimes enjoy shopping and selling at garage sales but I still think my Mom is the Queen of garage sale shopping. Her latest find for me is a double jogging stroller in great condition for $40! Retails for $200! How much fun is that?

I love sunny weekend mornings, with dew still on the grass and the sounds of few cars on the road yet. Folks taking it easy, and driving around trying to find those yard sales and baby toy bargains.

If you are in the mood to Spring/Summer clean, and declutter your house, why not have a garage sale. Out with the old, and in with the new.

In addition to making money, it’s a great way to meet neighbors you haven’t been introduced to yet, and socialize with those you are already friends with.

All in all, it’s making money while you get a tan, and socialize or multi-task. Sometimes I bring out a
little project to do while I’m having a sale. It can be clipping coupons, beading/jewelry making, planting flowers outside, or even surfing the web or
doing research.

I’ve listed some tips to help you make the most of your sale, and ensure you are profitable!

Before the sale, preparing and gathering your inventory:

Gather items in your home and begin to stage them to make sure you have enough to sell to make it worth your time. Invite family members to join so you have a larger selection of
merchandise to get those potential customers “drive-byers” to stop and get out
of their car.

Although a popular garage sale day is Saturday when most people are off work, the true die hard garage-salers start on Thursdays. If you have the ability to do this, it’s the best day.
Early birds and all will show up.

The first thing is scour your house for clothes you haven’t worn, knick knacks, big ticket items you no longer need, etc. List all rooms of the house on paper and start writing the items you
feel you no longer need. Just brainstorm at this point so you don’t overlook
anything.

Ask yourself whether you’ve used it in the past year? Review and walk through 2-3 times to check for more potential sale items to add to your inventory. Wedding accessories stashed
away, to appliances you received that you will never use?

Collect your stuff in one area. Sort it by type of course (clothing,toys, knick knacks, etc). When
ready, take items to the garage to start cleaning off anything that’s dusty.
When beginning to set-up in the garage, I like to price items other than
clothing. It stands a better chance that the price sticker will stay on that
way.

The only exception I have for this is clothing. Since I sell a lot of baby clothes at Mom 2 Mom Sales, I spend more time with the tagging. I like to price inside the house using a
safety pin, or larger label. I write the price, size, and Brand Name. I find it
makes it easier to shop and warrants a higher price if the tagging looks
appealing.

Since you usually plan for weeks prior to a garage sale, start early by saving all your paper and plastic grocery shopping bags.

Pricing your items

A general guideline for pricing is 80-90% less than the cost of the item. For clothes, its more like 95% less than what you paid. A lost of garage salers only want to spend $1 on a piece
of clothes since they can’t try it on. But, I would stick to your higher price
and to what you feel is fair.

Clothes are expensive, and if the sale just started you may come across the one customer that buys everything in that size.

Since many garage salers find part of the fun to be negotiating, I add some flexibility into my pricing. Think about what the minimum price would be that you’d accept on things that you
particularly like. I would hold firm on the beginning part of the day to some
degree and not just give stuff away at the early point.

You can always have a last day ½ off Sale! I love doing this for my customers who see the ad posted on Craigslist.org and mention it.

Price every item. Many people will not ask the price of an item even if they are interested in it. If someone asks if you will take less. Say yes, and let them make the offer.

Check with your city government, or Condo Association. Some jurisdictions require a
permit, or limit the number and time of day you can hold a garage sale.

Set The Dates

Choose your day, and plan a one-day sale, maximum. In yard sales, as in life, there is
a point of diminishing returns. Sitting around at 4:00 p.m. watching the last
few pieces of mismatched food storage containers stare down the '70's era
macramé hanging isn't worth the last few pennies that may--or may not--come your
way.

During the end of your sale, start thinking about your strategy for getting rid of the
unsold merchandise. I personally have a hard time parting with some things that
you’ve paid good money for. Although it’s the picked through stuff, decide on
what you want to donate, or save the rest for the foundation for your next
sale. If you have the space, box up in plastic totes unsold merchandise for
your next sale.

Salvation Army stores usually have a drop-off area in the back and are open late
so you have a convenient way to dispose of anything you’d like to donate. Plus,
don’t forget to get a receipt so you can deduct from your taxes.

Get the word out, and advertise:

Your signs don’t have to be huge like a billboard in Times Square, but they do need
to get a driver’s attention from a distance. Bright Green, Pink or Yellow does
the trick. It’s my experience white, or orange don’t stand out as much. Orange
looks too much like a caution sign of sorts.

Your goal is to attract as much traffic to your sale as possible. Ensure you have
signs posted and arrows to route customers through your subdivision to locate
your sale. The worst possible thing that could happen is your potential
customer turning their car around because they got discouraged when they no
longer knew where to go to find your sale!

The more traffic, the greater the chances are that others will stop for fear that someone
else will snatch a treasure right up.

Tell as many people as possible about your sale. The numbers add up. Also, post signs on local bulletin boards at hardware stores, or restaurants in the neighborbood. If you have time you
may also want to send out a flyer for neighbors to join in, and coordinate a
mini-block sale. That generates a lot more traffic than a single sale.

Invite your friends and relatives to bring items over to sell, as that will help to spread word of mouth
advertising and add to the inventory available for all types of folks to take
interest in your sale, and stop the car to browse.

Post signs in your neighborhood the night before your sale, so customers know you are planning a sale. It also helps to save time in the morning when you are setting up tables on your
driveway.

Craigslist is an excellent to get additional customers to your sale as they have already read a description of what you are selling. You can also offer extra discounts for those that mention
they saw your ad on Craigs. I have done 50% off on the last day of the sale for
my Craigslist customers only.

Here is another link to a site where you can check for local sales in your area!

www.garagesalestracker.com

Rainy Day Idea - Make Your Own Lip Balm/Lip Gloss Recipes

2009-05-15T20:15:00.001-07:00

Here’s How to Make Your Own Lip Balm and Lip Gloss!

1.) The basic formula is:

1/4 cup vegetable or nut oil
1/4 ounce beeswax
1 teaspoon honey or glycerine (humectants)
1/2 to 1 teaspoon natural flavoring oil aka Essential Oil.

Heat the oil and beeswax in a double boiler (or microvave) until the beeswax is melted.
Remove from heat and whip with an electric beater until creamy.
Add the honey or glycerine and approx 5 drops flavoring oil; whip some more. Add more flavoring if desired.
Store in small glass jars, small tupperware bowls, decorative tins or film containers.
Try different oils on your lips to choose the best one for your skin and taste preference.
If the Balm is too hard (waxy), add more oil to your mixture.
If it is too soft, add more wax.

You can add a few drops of beet juice for a beautiful & natural red color.
But instead of going to that trouble, you can just shave off a little of your lip stick
for that beautiful (not natural) color. Don't use food coloring, it may contain alcohol base

Never use extracts found in cooking sections of the grocery stores as they contain alcohol.
Use safe essential oils. The good part about them is they have thousands of great flavors.
Comfrey, Rosemary, Tea Tree or Camphor Oils are excellent for healing effects.

How do you know if it's time to throw away your gloss? If it changes color, odor, or texture, though, throw it away.

**************************************************************************************************

2.) Basic Lip Balm II

1/2 ounce beeswax beads, refined
4 ounces sweet almond oil
2 teaspoons essential oil or food flavoring oil

Put the 4 ounces of sweet almond oil in measuring cup, add beeswax beads and melt in microwave.
Stir with spoon, and when cooled a bit, add essential or flavoring oil. Pour into jars or containers.

**************************************************************************************************

3.) Cranberry Lip Gloss

1 tablespoon sweet almond oil
10 fresh cranberries
1 teaspoon honey
1 drop of vitamin E oil

Mix all the ingredients together in a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave for a couple of minutes or until the mixture just begins to boil.
(Bowl may also be heated in a pan of water on a stovetop).
Stir well and gently crush the berries.
Cool mixture for five minutes and then strain through a fine sieve to remove all the fruit
pieces. Stir again and set aside to cool completely.
When cool, transfer into a small portable plastic container or tin.

**************************************************************************************************

4.)Silky Smooth Lip Balm

2 Teaspoons Olive Oil
1/2 Teaspoon Grated Beeswax or Beeswax Pellets
1/2 Teaspoon Shea Butter or Cocoa Butter
1/2 Teaspoon Honey
Any Flavored Oil To Taste
1 Vitamin E Capsule (as a preservative) (optional)

**************************************************************************************************

5.) Honey Balm

3 oz. Almond Oil
2 Teaspoons Honey
1/2 oz. Beeswax or Beeswax Pellets
1 Vitamin E Capsule (as a preservative)
1-4 Drops Essential Oil

*************************************************************************************************

6.) Almond Lip Gloss

2 Teaspoons Grated Beeswax or Beeswax Pellets
3 - 6 Drops Flavored Oil
1 Teaspoon Sweet Almond Oil
3 Drops Honey
1 1/2 Teaspoon Cocoa Butter
1 Vitamin E Capsule (as a preservative)

*************************************************************************************************

7.) Helps heal cold sores.
1 oz. Emu Oil
1 oz. Almond Oil
1 oz. Avocado Oil
1/2 oz. Shaved Beeswax or Beeswax Pellets
1/4 oz. Aloe Vera Gel
6 Drops Lavender Essential Oil
2 Drops Tea Tree Essential Oil
3 Drops Lime Essential Oil

*************************************************************************************************

8. Honey Lip Balm
2 tsp. olive oil
1/2 tsp. beeswax
1/2 tsp. cocoa butter
1/2 tsp. honey
3 drops essential oil (I like orange.)
1 vitamin E capsule

Measure oil, beeswax and cocoa butter into a glass or enamel pan.
Melt over low heat. A hotplate works well and reduces the risk of overheating the oils.
Stir the mixture often until the wax is melted. Remove from heat and stir in the honey and essential oil. Pinch open the vitamin E capsule and squeeze the contents into the mixture. Stir well. Pour the mixture into containers.

**************************************************************************************************

9.) Aloe Vera Lip Gloss
1 tsp aloe vera gel
1/2 tsp coconut oil
1 tsp petroleum jelly

Mix the ingredients in a glass bowl, and microwave for 1 - 2 minutes.
Pour into container.

**************************************************************************************************

10.) Vasoline Lip Balm

3 parts vasoline
1 part beeswax
flavoring

Mix well
*************************************************************************************************

11.) Chocolate Balm

3 Tbsp. Cocoa Butter
4-5 Chocolate Chips
1 capsule, Vitamin E
Melt and blend ingredients with a spoon until smooth, put into a container
and refrigerate until solid.

**************************************************************************************************

12.) Vanilla Lip Gloss

1 tablespoon grates beeswax
1/2 tablespoon coconut oil
1/8 teaspoon vitamin E oil
1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract

Slowly heat beeswax, coconut oil, and vitamin E oil until melted.
Stir in the vanilla extract then cool

**************************************************************************************************

13.) Vanilla Lip Balm

1 TBL Petroeum Jelly
1 TBL Aloe Vera Gel
1 1/2 tsp coconut oil
1/2 tsp vanilla

Heat in double boiler (or microwave) then pour into container to cool.

*************************************************************************************************

14.) Candle Wax Lip Balm

1/2 a teaspoon of melted candle wax.
2 teaspoons of Olive Oil.
1/2 a teaspoon of Shea Butter or you can also add Cocoa Butter.
1/2 a teaspoon of Honey and any flavor of oil to taste.
one vitamin E capsule to preserve the Lip Balm

**************************************************************************************************

15.) Eyeshadow Lip Balm

Take an eyeshadow break it up and mix it with vaseline or beeswax.
For a glossy shine, use an irridescent or glittery eyeshadow.
White/silver/grey glossys are best.

**************************************************************************************************

16.) Cocoa Butter Lip Gloss

1/2 tsp grated Beeswax
1 tsp cocoa butter
1 tsp almond oil, or olive

Melt all together by means of waterbath ( put in a cup & set in sink of hot water)
and then put into a lip balm container

**this is a butter recipe if you want something glossy but not too.. slick :)

*************************************************************************************************

17.) Castor Oil Lip Balm

3 oz castor oil
1.5 cocoa butter
1.5 beeswax
Melt in microwave. Add oil. Stir. Pour into containers.

*************************************************************************************************

18.) Sweet Balm/Gloss

2 tsp beeswax
1 tsp honey
7 tsp castor oil or jojoba or sweet almond oil
1/8 tsp. Flavor oil

Melt the oil and beeswax together in a little pan over low heat until
the beeswax is melted. Take off the stove and then add in your honey
and whisk it all together. When the mixture is nearly cool add in your
flavor oil, mix it up again and then pour into your lip balm container.
Since this comes out to be more like a gloss you can always add more beeswax to it
so that it is a little harder. Maybe another 1/2 tsp would do it.

**************************************************************************************************

19.) Heal Sores Balm

3 oz almond oil
2 tsp pure honey
1/2 oz beeswax
1 tsp tea tree oil
Melt all together and stir while cooling.

*************************************************************************************************

20.) Quick & Easy Lip Balm

Spoon full of vasiline in a cup (you dont even need to heat it) .
Add some honey (depending on how sweet you want it).
Mix together or whip.
Lip stick color shavings for color.

To solidify faster after putting it in a container, submerse it in a cup of
ice water or put it in the freezer until solid.

**************************************************************************************************

21.) Hemp Oil Lip Balm

3 T coconut oil
1 T castor oil
1 T sunflower oil
1 T hemp seed oil
1 T beeswax
1 T honey
Essential Oil to taste (I use peppermint)

Melt the wax, and coconut oil together (I use the microwave)
Add the honey and heat a little. Stir constantly and add your sunflower and caster oil.
As the mixture begins to thicken add the hempseed oil and your choice of essential oil.
STIR CONTANTLY until it thickens.

**************************************************************************************************

22.) Peppermint Lip Balm

2 Tbsp petroleum jelly
1 tspn beeswax
10-14 drops peppermint essential oil

In a small pot, melt the petroleum jelly, then add beeswax.
When melted, remove from heat and add peppermint essential oil.
Pour into a lip pot and cool.

**************************************************************************************************

23. ) Nude Lip Balm Trendy..

1/4 tsp. of aloe vera lotion
1/4 tsp. of your color of foundation
1 tbsp. of vaseline

Mix together in a small bowl with a cotton swab.
You can even skip the aloe vera lotion if you want.

**************************************************************************************************

24.) Fruity Lip Gloss --Made with Kool-Aid!

2 tbsp. solid shortening
1 tbsp. fruit-flavored powdered drink mix (Kool-Aid)
35 mm plastic film container

Mix shortening and drink mix together in a small microwave-safe container until smooth.
Place container in the microwave on high for 30 seconds until mixture becomes a liquid.
Pour the mixture into a plastic film container or any other type of small airtight container.
Place the fruity lip gloss mixture in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes or until firm.

**************************************************************************************************

25.) Cinnamon Lip Gloss

2 tablespoons petroleum jelly
1/4 teaspoon lipstick, any color
4 drops cinnamon oil
Place petroleum jelly in small microwave container. Top with lipstick. Microwave for 20-30 seconds on High power (100%), or until mixture has softened. Blend well. Mix in cinnamon. Store in small container.

**************************************************************************************************

26.) Hard Candy Lip Gloss

2 Tbsp petroleum jelly
1 tspn beeswax

2-3 pieces of your favorite hard candy (jolly ranchers work great!)

In a small pot (or micorwave), melt the petroleum jelly, hard candy and beeswax.
Pour into a lip container and cool.
**************************************************************************************************
In a microwave, melt about eight chocolate chips with about four tablespoons of cocoa butter and 1/4 teaspoon of olive oil.

Stir at 20-second intervals until the chocolate melts and the product is well mixed.

Place in small containers and refrigerate until hardened. Use as needed. Makes a great gift, too!

27.) Cocoa Butter Minty Lip Balm
1-1/2 parts cocoa butter
1-1/2 parts grated beeswax
3 parts edible vegetable oil of your choice (almond, apricot kernel, avocado,
extra virgin olive, hemp seed, jojoba, kukui nut, macadamia nut, castor all work
well... but keep in mind if you plan on selling lip balm or giving as a gift, that
some people are allergic to nut oils). Spearmint and/or peppermint flavoring oil
Melt the cocoa butter and beeswax slowly and carefully in a microwave, or over a
double boiler on the stove until melted. Add oil and stir well. Add spearmint or
peppermint flavoring oils, or both, a few drops at a time, to taste. Gently reheat if
needed. Cool slightly before pouring into containers. To test consistency, place
a drop on a spoon and set in the refrigerator to cool for a few minutes. Test on
your lips. For a softer lip balm, add more oil. For a harder lip balm, add more
beeswax.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
28.) Chocolate Lip Gloss
1 1/2 tsp grated cocoa butter
1/2 tsp coconut oil
1/8 tsp vitamin E oil
1/4 tsp grated chocolate or 3 small chocolate chips
In a double boiler or microwave heat the cocoa butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E
oil until melted. Stir in the chocolate chips and keep stirring until melted and well
blended Pour into small container and allow to cool before using
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
29.) Beeswax Lip Balm
2 tablespoons beeswax
1 tablespoon coconut oil
Melt the ingredients over a double boiler. Pour into a container while still hot
since it will harden as it cools. Makes about 1/4 cup.
30.) Cocoa Butter Minty Lip Balm

1-1/2 parts cocoa butter
1-1/2 parts grated beeswax
3 parts edible vegetable oil of your choice (almond, apricot kernel,
avocado, extra virgin olive, hemp seed, jojoba, kukui nut, macadamia nut,
castor all work well... but keep in mind if you plan on selling lip balm or
giving as a gift, that some people are allergic to nut oils)
Spearmint and/or peppermint flavoring oil

Melt the cocoa butter and beeswax slowly and carefully in a microwave, or
over a double boiler on the stove until melted. Add oil and stir well. Add
spearmint or peppermint flavoring oils, or both, a few drops at a time, to
taste. Gently reheat if needed. Cool slightly before pouring into
containers. To test consistency, place a drop on a spoon and set in the
refrigerator to cool for a few minutes. Test on your lips. For a softer
lip balm, add more oil. For a harder lip balm, add more beeswax.

Meal Planning Made Easy

2009-05-02T20:19:00.001-07:00

coming soon

GIrls Night Out or In

2009-05-02T20:04:00.000-07:00

Kate Gosselin from Jon & Kate Plus Eight is going to be in town Thursday, May 14th.

Tea with Kate Gosselin" is an intimate meet and greet with Kate and a small group of special fans. This event will be held at the new Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital (6777 West Maple Road) at 3 p.m. Tickets cost $150, and include your choice of one of her best-selling books plus an opportunity to get it signed by Kate.

"Moms' Night Out with Kate Gosselin" will give Metro Detroiters an opportunity to hear how Kate copes with her big brood. She'll share her "Six Lessons Learned" and "Tips for a Stress Free Home."

This evening event at Faith Lutheran Church in Troy (37635 Dequindre Road) begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $38 for general admission gold seating (includes book signing opportunity) and $27 for general admission silver seating. It's the perfect Mother's Day present for Metro Detroit moms, letting them know that no matter how tough and demanding parenting can be sometimes, they can find the right balance to ensure a happy home.

To purchase tickets or for additional information, visit MetroParentEvents.com or call 248-398-3400, ext. 128.

SOURCE Metro Parent Publishing Group
04/29/2009 12:01

NEW MOM STUFF FROM WORK TO BABY FORMULA

2009-05-02T20:02:00.000-07:00

ASKING FOR A FLEXIBLE WORK SCHEDULE - TEMPLATE AFTER THE BABY

After my first child I decided I needed a bit of relief from working a full 40 hour work week and proposed an alternative work schedule. My employer did not have a policy so I had to propose one for the first time. I was able to get my proposal approved, from a company that traditionally values "face time". The 9 hours, 9 days did not work out however, I was able to negotiate a half day each Friday instead. So, it actually worked out for the better as I'm able to benefit weekly from my new arrangement! A happy mom, able to see her kids more, and still get work tasks done is fabulous.

To help all the other ( WOHM's )Work outside the home moms out there, I will post a sample of what I used to convince management to approve my flexible work arrangment. Good Luck to everyone!

Sample Letter:

DATE: 7/2/09

TO: Human Resources and/or Direct Manager

FROM: Loyal Employee

RE: Proposal for Flexible Work Arrangement

Dear Human Resources and/or Direct Manager:

Enclosed please find a proposal outlining a plan for restructuring my current full-time position as Senior Buyer into a full-time and equally-productive compressed workweek arrangement. This issue is important to me and I hope you will consider my ideas to achieve a balance that could prove beneficial to the department and allow me time to address personal issues.

Thank you for your consideration.

-----

Flexible Work Arrangement Proposal

I have been employed at Widgets Incorporated for approximately 4 years and believe I am very committed to the quality of my work. Lately, I have been finding it somewhat challenging to address family issues due to my full-time work schedule and 45 minute commute. My ability to balance work and family needs would be greatly enhanced with a modification of work schedule.

The plan outlined below is a mutually-beneficial approach to retaining my training and experience that will also lead to an increase in on-the-job productivity.

PLAN

A. Schedule

The proposed work schedule is nine, nine-hour days, with a day off every other week. I would like to propose a 3 month trial period, with an evaluation mid-way to see how well it is working.

Attendance requirements at meetings, trainings and other functions will be met with proper scheduling.

B. Job Responsibilities

With the proposed arrangement, all aspects of my position can be maintained as the number of hours worked per week remains the same. My job effectiveness will not be compromised by this new arrangement.

Most projects have timelines already in place and I will continue to organize my time to support these deadlines. With effective communication and some additional pre-planning, my absence should not have an impact.

C. Benefits the Department and Widgets Incorporated:

There are several benefits to the Purchasing department, Widgets Incorporated and suppliers:

Ÿ Extended service as hours are extended on a daily basis
Ÿ Increased efficiency and productivity when analyzing data, quotes, and commodity research that require long periods of uninterrupted concentration and quiet time.
Ÿ Enhanced productivity due to increased morale.
Ÿ Decreased absenteeism because of the ability to schedule personal appointments on the weekday I’m not scheduled to work.

Ÿ
D. Communication

I will inform my colleagues, and suppliers of my modified work schedule and availability.

I am available by company cell phone and e-mail to address any urgent issues and follow-up as necessary.

E. Compensation & Benefits Coverage

As my full-time status will remain unchanged, compensation and benefits coverage will not be affected.

F. Savings

Widgets Incorporated will incur no additional costs as a result of restructuring my schedule in this manner. Widgets Incorporated will also benefit from less absenteeism, which is a documented benefit of flexible work arrangements, by providing me the flexibility which allows me to attend to outside responsibilities without missing work.

G. Evaluation

I suggest this arrangement be given a 3 month trial period with periodic review as necessary. A decision whether to continue or further modify the arrangement would be made then.

Summary

It is my desire to continue on staff and contribute to Widgets Incorporated. I possess the motivation and ability to manage my role as Senior Buyer successfully in a compressed workweek arrangement.

Approval of this proposal protects Widgets Incorporated investment in a trained and experienced Buyer through continued retention of a loyal employee. Support of this arrangement will permit a sustained level of commitment to Widgets Incorporated.

This proposal to restructure my position considers both employee and employer needs, but I am open to discussion about concerns that may not have been addressed and welcome your suggestions for making the new arrangement successful.

Sincerely,

Your Name Here

Benefits of Flexible Work Arrangements

The 2007 president of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), Susan Meisinger, wrote about the positive outcomes employers are reporting from use of flexible work schedules. They include increased retention, loyalty and morale; higher productivity; and decreased tardiness and absenteeism. April 2007 HR Magazine (p. 12)

“Work/life balance is the benefits strategy that employers rate as the single most important (43%) in meeting their benefits objectives.” (1,548 HR/ Benefits executives surveyed.) The MetLife Study of Employee Benefits Trends, November 2003http://www.metlife.com/WPSAssets/71984818501070903171V1FEBTFINALPDF.pdf

Likewise, many on Fortune magazine’s list of Best Companies offer flexible work: http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/bestcompanies/2007

SAVING MONEY ON BABY FORMULA AND STUFF!

Baby Formula Checks in the Mail… $5, $11, $20 and More!
It seems more and more everyone is referring to Craigslist for anything and everything lately, and baby formula is no exception.
Mothers and others are trading Baby Formula checks to collect the brand they really need, or trade for cash, formula rebates or other coupons.
I really wish I knew about this for my first child. You can save a ton by persistently keeping up with the trades.
Here’s an example of how you can maximize savings
First, ensure you have signed up for all Formula welcome programs Online.
www.enfamil.com
www.goodstart.com
www.similac.com
You can even ask your Mom or Sister to do this on your behalf so you have more samples and coupons coming your way.
Cost Savings Calculation:
Formula $24.58/ 23 Ounce Can (approx)….. Retail,
Sale $22.99, less $5.00 Check Coupon = $17.99
Often times Grocery Stores allow you to use more than one of the Manufacturer Checks for Infant Formula so you may be able to continue to realize additional savings depending on your store and location

New Mom’s Online Sign-up Check-list for Free Stuff, Coupons, Rebates and More Must-Have Goodies
www.gerber.com

Write letters. As new Mom’s have at least 6 weeks to recouperate after pregnancy, you should make the most of it by planning tasks to complete during your time off.
Start your own product review. Why not evaluate all the baby gear you begin using on your newborn and send letters to each particular company. You will probably get coupons or free samples in return.
This is especially easy with children’s food.
For example, if you have older children who enjoy a particular food product, why not write a letter to the company explaining how great their snacks, are and you feel good about feeding your child healthy snacks. You get the idea. You will receive a thank you letter in return and most likely some coupons for free product or samples.

Coupons

2009-05-02T10:26:00.001-07:00

Check back later

Make Money

2009-05-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

There are lots of FUN ways for Moms & others, to make some extra cash both online and off! I will be adding more to this posting shortly, but here are a few things to get started.

MYSTERY SHOPPING

It's True. You can get paid for Shopping, Travel, Test Driving Cars, and Dining out! Mystery Shopping is a Great Way to Make a Supplemental Income and Get Paid while Shopping! Learn about Mystery Shopping Free and many of the companies are looking for shoppers world wide.

Get Mystery Shopping Jobs delivered to Your Inbox Daily! Sign up for Free with
Tracy's Mystery Shopping News for Daily Assignments! Click the sign-up below!
Click to subscribe to tracys_mystery_shopping_news

All About Mystery Shopping
All About Mystery Shopping Part 2

MOM 2 MOM SALES
Make Money by selling your kids clothes and/or buying more there. Its the ultimate in recycling.

For Michigan Sales, check out www.mom2momlist.com

Much more to come on making money on the internet both on and off.

AVON - The Company for Women:
AVON is an excellent way to make extra cash. Whether you decide to save for a vacation, or holiday shop, you will succeed with AVON

I recently started selling AVON and I'm already seeing profits! If you weren't aware, Suzy Orman endorses AVON! Big celebrity names are also linked with AVON - Reese Witherspoon has gotten on board with AVON as well as a Spokeswoman. Reese launched "In Bloom" in November and Patrick Dempsey 2 is the latest in men's cologne.
=========*****************
If you are looking to start your own business on a budget, I have the solution for you! For $10 start-up cost you can immediately begin making 40% off all product sales for the first 4 campaigns. To Learn More about this send an e-mail to mom2momblogger@gmail.com with AVON in the subject please :)
==========****************
Anywhere in the country, I can help you to join this amazing opportunity and personally work with you to get started.

Free Scrapbooking Quotes/Sayings Download

2009-05-01T22:59:00.000-07:00

Scrapbooking Quotes and Sayings eBook

Beechnut Baby Food Cash Rebate Link

2009-04-29T19:29:00.000-07:00

Here's a link I found for Beechnut's $4.00 cash rebate offer. Expires 12/09
http://beechnut.com/Our%20Company/SpecialOffers.asp

Easy Cabbage Rolls / Glumpkes - Great 1 Dish Frozen Asset Meal

2009-04-29T11:50:00.000-07:00

Cabbage Rolls / aka Polish Glumpkes

This is a great recipe to make and freeze left-overs, or double
the recipe at the same time to maximize your prep time. If you have a small
family of 2, freezing the left-overs would make a perfect quantity for a 2^nd
meal, or take for lunch the next day. If your family is larger, I would
recommend doubling the recipe and freezing. The cabbage rolls would fit
perfectly in freezer baggies or glad ware, and keep for about 1 month. It may
be ok longer, but I try to stay within a month’s time-frame and label what I
have stored and keep it in a log.

Prep: 30 min; Bake: 45 min

1 Cabbage and/or 12 + Cabbage leaves

1 lb ground beef

1 cup uncooked instant rice

2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon pepper

1 medium onion, chopped

½ garlic salt

1 teaspoon sugar

½ teaspoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 tablespoon water

1. Cover cabbage leaves with boiling water. Cover and let stand until leaves are
limp, about 10-15 minutes depending on the size of cabbage. Remove leaves and
drain with cold water. Allow to soak in cold water for at least 5 minutes. Cut
out the core from the head of the cabbage for the leafs to separate more easily.

2. Heat oven to 350°.

3. Mix beef, rice, 1 cup of the tomato sauce, the salt, pepper, onion, and
garlic salt.

4. Depending on the size of the cabbage leave place approximately 1/3 cup beef
mixture at stem end of each leaf. Roll leaf around beef mixture, tucking in the
sides. Place cabbage rolls, seam sides down, in ungreased large rectangle baking
dish.

5. Mix remaining tomato sauce, the sugar and lemon juice; pour over cabbage
rolls.

6. Cover and bake about 45 minutes or until beef mixture is no longer pink in
center.

7. Spoon liquid from baking dish into a small saucepan. Mix cornstarch and
water; stir into liquid. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Boil and stir 1
minute. Pour sauce over cabbage rolls.

Diapers Diapers Diapers

2009-04-28T20:56:00.000-07:00

When I had my first child, I was the Pampers Swaddler Snob. Nothing else was good enough for my baby girl. Then comes the second, and boy do things change. I started out with Pampers Swaddlers, then how quickly I remembered the 10+ diapers a day changing. Some days more, in the beginning. I went from Pampers Swadders, to Huggies, and then it happened. My mom shows up with a big pack of 80+? Luvs diapers. I must admit, I was already prejudging that I would not care for them but turns out, they are excellent! I highly recommend LUVS in the beginning when you are changing diapers 24/7 or even for daytime diapers. Size 1 Luvs are about $.10 compared to the competition at closer to $.20/diaper. What a difference in price. They also have a leakage guarantee. If you aren't satisfied, write to them and you will get a box of diapers absolutely FREE!

Just Starting Out - My First Blog

2009-04-28T19:15:00.001-07:00

I'm just starting out Mom 2 Mom Blogger at the 11th hour, on my last week of maternity leave. I'm on a mission to upload a collection of resources I've come across that were posted on other websites of mine that I'm discontinuing. So, I'm essentially consolidating. Also, this blog is going to be a resource for me to help MEAL PLAN! I'm notorious for not knowing what to make for dinner, especially when working. Since being on maternity leave, I've improved and actually became good at planning, and coming up with a strategy to save time and money. Its a combination of using what's in your pantry already/or on sale, cooking the night before, doubling up if necessary, and freezing the leftovers! I don't see how people can cook one day for the entire month since I wouldn't have enough freezer space, but I do see how it works on a smaller scale. I will post recipes and meal plans for the week as soon as I get rolling on this. Then, I'll have my plan for the week, and hopefully help some of my blog followers as well! If you have recipes, or tips feel free to post! Thanks for reading :)

Mystery Shopping Part 2

2009-04-27T18:11:00.000-07:00

WHAT DO MYSTERY SHOPPING COMPANIES LOOK FOR IN POTENTIAL SHOPPERS?

Anyone can become a Mystery Shopper. You will not have to learn new skills to be a MS. If you can get around to visit various stores, and speak/write English and are of average intelligence, honest and dependable, you should be all set. To give you an idea of other qualities that are desireable, they are as follows.

Keen Eye and attention to detail
Ability to be reliable and impartial
Good memory is essential as you may not be able to take notes on assignments
Someone who is outgoing, and able to interact/communicate with all parties involved.
Being on-time for assignments and returning evaluations within the time-frames allotted are KEY factors in an Agency asking you back.
Other desirable attributes are being professional, committed, detailed, and unbiased.

STEP BY STEP / HOW TO GET STARTED!

Get yourself some coffee. Sit down, and apply to as many companies as you can. Most MS Companies operate almost entirely over the Internet now. In fact, it wouldn’t hurt to spend part of the weekend going through online applications. Be Proactive! Online applications are truly the quickest way for you to get started receiving assignments within the first few days. The majority of MS Agencies have online registratiosn, and everything can be submitted via the internet. Although, you may be asked to mail/fax your application and the Independent Contractor Agreement. You can go online and do a search for “mystery shopping companies, and you would be pleasantly surprised at how many different companies appear. To make it easier for you to get busy shopping faster, I have included Mystery Shopping Company Contacts for you including website addresses, e-mails, street addresses, and phone numbers.

I highly recommend that you apply to as many companies that you can, which will increase the number of assignments you will get. Please be aware, that you must fill in all required fields when filling out the applications. You want to increase your chances as much as possible, of being selected. ( I.E. Have you Drivers License Number handy as some require it ) Free Programs such as Gator and Keyboard Express will fill in the files for you on applications. You can access them online for free.

Its also helpful to prepare a one-paragraph summary of why you want to Mystery Shop and/or of the types of shops you enjoy ( just as a writing sample ) and why are are qualified. You can just do this in MS Word and copy/paste it into your applications.

A CLOSER LOOK
Info: Pays Reimbursement Only
Hospitality, USA & Canada.
P.O. Box 920760Norcross, GA 30010-0760(770)446-0590http://www.a-closer-look.com/info@a-closer-look.com

Action Research Groupmailto:dinoaction@aol.com

A CUSTOMERS POINT OF VIEW9442 S. Main St. Suite 119AJonesboro, GA 30236(770) 477-1719 http://acpview.com/info@acpview.com

BESTMARK
Info: Retail Stores, Restaurants, Casinos, Shopping Malls, Banks & Hotels.
Site Lists Avail. Jobs4915 West 35th St, Suite 206St. Louis Park, MN 55416http://www.bestmark.com/shopperinfo@bestmark.com

BEYOND HELLO, INC.
Info: Site Lists Avail. JobsP.O. Box 5240Madison, WI 53705800-321-2588https://www.beyondhello.com/secure/index.htm tasha@beyondhello.com

BUSINESS EVALUATION SERVICES
Info: Automot., Theme Prk, Banking,
Rest., Retail, Gas Stat. Site lists Shops 2920 F Street # E-15Bakersfield, CA. 93301888-300-8292http://www.mysteryshopperservices.com/website jobs@mysteryshopperservices.com

CERTIFIED REPORTS
Info: MS, Theatre Checks, Evaluations, Auditing. Site Lists Available Jobs7 Hudson StreetKinderhook NY 12106518-758-6400http://www.certifiedreports.com/mbruno@certifiedreports.com

CHECK MARK, INC.4013 Bach BuxtonBatavia OH, 451031-800-866-8836http://www.checkmarkinc.com/info@checkmarkinc.com

CHECK-UP MARKETINGInfo: Various. Dept. Stores, Specialty Shops, Restaurants, Convenience Stores, Gas Stations, Hotels & Banks.
5109 Holly Ridge Drive, Suite 210Raleigh, North Carolina 27612919-782-7581http://www.checkupmarketing.com/secretshopper@checkupmarketing.com

CONFERO
Info: Retail, Grocery, Automotive,
Site Lists Available Shops.1152 Executive Circle, Suite 100Cary NC 27511(800)326-3880http://www.conferoinc.com/info@conferoinc.com

Customer Perspectives
Info: Restaurants, Banks, Dept. Stores
Site Lists Avail Jobs - USA & Canada
213 West River RoadHooksett, New Hampshire 03106-2628800-CPSHOPShttp://www.customerperspectives.com/mailto:info@customerperspectives.com

Dynamic Service Group
Info: Merchandising Work http://dynamicservicegroup.com/sheri@dynamicservicegroup.com
Date Applied:
Shopper ID:
Password:

Employee Evaluators
Info: National Shops in Banking,
Retail, Hospitality, Property Mgt.1710 Manor Hill Rd.Findlay, OH 45840Fax: (216) 274-9076http://www.mysteryshops.com/mailto:mmallett@mysteryshops.com

Eye on Retailhttp://www.eyeonretail.com/mailto:sarac@eyeonretail.com

Feedback Plus5580 Peterson Lane, Suite 120, LB 19Dallas, Texas 75240-5157(800)882-SHOPhttp://www.feedbackplusinc.com/mailto:Feedback@GoFeedback.com

ICC/ Decision Services
Info: National - Apply to Shops On-lineP.O. Box 188Wayne, NJ 07474(973)890-8611http://www.iccds.com/index.html mailto:info@iccds.com

imystP.O. Box 7733Ann Arbor, MI 48107(248)338-2225http://www.imyst.com/mailto:team@imyst.com

Password:Indiana Research Company8126 Sagimore CtFt. Wayne, IN 46835260-485-2442http://indianaresearch.com/mailto:ccage@indianaresearch.com

Infinity Assurance Group23161 Mill Creek Drive Suite 100Laguna Hills, CA 92653(949)586-4989http://www.infinityag.com/mailto:mwalling@infinityag.com

Infotel
Info: Retail, Restaurants, Health Clubs, Financial Institutions, Cruse, and Tour Co's - Apply to Jobs Instantly-1st Come Basis3190 South Bascom Avenue Suite 100San Jose, CA 95124800-876-1110 Ext. 34 http://www.infotelinc.com//jobpostmailto:sales@infotelinc.com

J.M. Ridgway Company,Inc.
Info: Transportation Terminals, Retail 1066 Saratoga Ave, Suite 120San Jose, CA 95129-3401800-367-7434http://www.jmridgway.com/mailto:jmridgway@worldnet.att.net

Ken-Rich Retail Group4251 Jones LaneBellingham,WA 98225360-756-1403http://www.ken-rich.com/mailto:info@ken-rich.com

Kern Schedulinghttp://www.sassieshop.com/kern
Date Applied:
Shopper ID:
Password: Maritz Research
Info: MS, & Audits/USA & UK
Requires all Virtual Customers become
Employees1355 North Highway DriveFenton, St. Louis County, MO, 63099800-446-1690http://www.maritzresearch.com/Showcase/virt_frameset.html mailto:maritzresearch@maritz.com

Palm Scheduling Services(562)944-1313http://www.palmschedulingservices.com/mailto:PSSscheduler1@aol.com

Pinkerton
Info: MS and Audits / USA & Canada13950 Ballantyne Corporate Place, Suite 300 Charlotte, NC 28277800-553-9807http://www.pktnshop.com/mailto:info@psg-pinkerton.com

Satisfaction Services
Info: Various MS OpportunitiesP.O. Box 11045Fort Lauderdale Florida 33301800-564 6574http://www.satisfactionservicesinc.com/contact@satisfactionservicesinc.com

Second To None,Inc. (sleuths)
Info: Retail, Rest., Site Lists Avail. Jobs
3045 Miller RoadAnn Arbor, MI 48103734-302-8400http://www.second-to-none.com/dialogue@second-to-none.com
:Service Evaluation Concepts55 East Ames CourtPlanview, NY 11803516-576-1188http://www.serviceevaluation.com/mailto:employment@serviceevaluation.com

SHOPPERS' VIEW800-264-5677http://www.shoppersview.com/Pam@shoppersview.com

Service Quest
Info: Worldwide Shopping Opportunities4950-C York Grove # 236P.O. Box 2000Buckingham PA 18912-2000800-764-1996http://www.myservicequest.com/mailto:info@myservicequest.com

Service Research Corporation - sleuths
Info: MS, Surveys, Focus Groups6201 South 58th, Suite ALincoln, NE 68516(402)434-5000http://www.serviceresearch.com/mailto:info@serviceresearch.com

Howard Services - service sleuthsInfo: Retail and Restaurants
Franklin Office Park38 Pond St. Suite 104Franklin, MA 02038(508)520-1500http://www.howardservices.com/homess.html mailto:Servsleuth@aol.com

Shop'n Chek
Info: Offices WW - Site Lists Avail. JobsP.O. Box 740045Atlanta GA 30374-0045800-669-6526http://www.shopnchek.com/mailto:ShopRecruit@shopnchek.com

Shoppers' Critique International636 Florida Central ParkwayLongwood, FL 32750(800) 633-6194http://www.shopperscritique.com/mailto:mail@shopperscritique.com

Trend Source - sleuths111 Elm Street Suite 100San Diego, CA 92101(619) 239-2543http://www.trendsource.com/mailto:ccaussey@trendsource.com

Make Cash by Mystery Shopping Part 1

2009-04-27T17:49:00.000-07:00

It’s true, you can be paid for doing something you already love to do, and have been doing anyways. Shopping! I know, its depressing to actually think of “shopping” as fun without feeling guilty in these rough economic times, but this makes Mystery Shopping even so much more exciting. Mystery Shopping has become vary popular, and the market is now filled with shoppers world-wide. You are paid as an independent contractor and can sign up to do mystery shopping for several differnet companies at a time.
A Mystery Shopper acts as a regular customer that goes under-cover to assigned establishments (Retail Department Stores, Restaurants, Dealerships, etc.) to evaluate Customer Service. MS gather useful information about the business and reports results back to the MS Company.
The Marketing Company uses the reports to analyze the performance of the business, and give suggestions/recommendations to employers on what to do to improve their business and customer satisfaction. Employers want feedback on their staff and work environment. They have set standards and want to ensure they are being met. Mystery Shoppers are paid anywhere from $5 for a Fast Food and/or SuperMarket Shop to $100 for a more involved shop such as Opening a Bank Account or Evaluating the Airport Ticket Counter Service. Shoppers can make their own hours and can work as much or as little as you want.
You won’t get rich Mystery Shopping, but you will add hundreds of extra dollars to your income each month! Just about any type of business you can think of can benefit from Mystery Shopping. Mystery Shopping has grown to be a 500 Million Dollar Industry. Some additional examples of shops are below:

Example of a Restaurant Shop:
You would evaluate the cleanliness, and service received, etc.

Merchandising:
Performing light/medium work stocking, and arranging clothing, accessories, mark-downs, some assignments require working with plan-o-grams but not all do. Back-to-School and X-Mas time are Desirable times for this type of work as you get to work more hours! Generally pays $10/HR.

Exit Interviews:
Standing outside of a restaurant, and asking customers if they would answer a few questions about their dining experience as they walk out.
Ask Customers to Rate Questions from 1-10 which takes less than 5 minutes.
You would typically stay until 20 interviews are completed.

Audits:
You could have an assignment at a Department store where you have to check pricing vs. what appears in the registers. This type of assignment pays $10/$12 per hour and usually takes an Hour and a half to complete. You will need to bring a calculator with you. For this shop, you walk around the store with someone from Management and pick out clothing/merchandise items from different departments to price check. You would write the SKU’s down and the Sale Sign Price/Percentages. You would proceed to the registers where the Manager price checks these items. You have to document whether they are an overchange/undercharge and figure the percentage. You subtract the errors from the total amount to determine the percentage.

***Shopping, Making Money, Plus free merchandise, and meals can mean endless opportunity for you!

All About Mystery Shopping Part 2