Onwards and Upwards, Happy New Year!

   As we leave 2013 behind us and move into 2014, we look back and reflect on how our year has been. 2013 was not my best year, neither was it my worst. And for some of you, it wasn’t yours either. Nevertheless, a new year is upon us. At the end of each year we look forward to what is ahead of us and hope that what is behind us has taught us how to be better, and how to live better.
  We find ourselves new looking into that light at the end of the tunnel of 2013. Leaving the past and looking toward the future, with hope for the coming year. Hope for what the unknown might bring, and as long as we have hope we can keep moving on. "Hope guides me. It is what gets me through the day and especially the night", I remember this quote for a movie I watched ages ago, and it is the truest words I can think of tonight. So we will take those lessons we have learned and apply them to the New Year. We will Do better and Be better and be thankful for having the chance to do so. I will leave you with a favorite poem tonight. The poem describes a young man passing through a town bearing the banner "Excelsior" (translated from Latin as "ever higher", also loosely but more widely as "onward and upward"), ignoring all warnings, climbing higher until inevitably, "lifeless, but beautiful" he is found by the "faithful hound" half-buried in the snow, "still clasping in his hands of ice that banner with the strange device, Excelsior!"
This poem always remind me to keep moving forward, keep climbing, Onward and upward.

Excelsior! Happy New Year!

The shades of night were falling fast,

As through an Alpine village passed

A youth, who bore, 'mid snow and ice,

A banner with the strange device,

Excelsior!

His brow was sad; his eye beneath,

Flashed like a falchion from its sheath,

And like a silver clarion rung

The accents of that unknown tongue,

Excelsior!

In happy homes he saw the light

Of household fires gleam warm and bright;

Above, the spectral glaciers shone,

And from his lips escaped a groan,

Excelsior!

"Try not the Pass!" the old man said:

"Dark lowers the tempest overhead,

The roaring torrent is deep and wide!"

And loud that clarion voice replied,

Excelsior!

"Oh stay," the maiden said, "and rest

Thy weary head upon this breast!"

A tear stood in his bright blue eye,

But still he answered, with a sigh,

Excelsior!

"Beware the pine-tree's withered branch!

Beware the awful avalanche!"

This was the peasant's last Good-night,

A voice replied, far up the height,

Excelsior!

At break of day, as heavenward

The pious monks of Saint Bernard

Uttered the oft-repeated prayer,

A voice cried through the startled air,

Excelsior!

A traveler, by the faithful hound,

Half-buried in the snow was found,

Still grasping in his hand of ice

That banner with the strange device,

Excelsior!

There in the twilight cold and gray,

Lifeless, but beautiful, he lay,

And from the sky, serene and far,

A voice fell, like a falling star,

Excelsior!

 

 

Unique New Years Traditions Worldwide.

It is almost that time again. Time to usher out the old and ring in the new. Some will be sharing a kiss at midnight and drinking champagne. Some will be at party's watching the ball drop and singing Auld Lang Syne. All of this followed by eating all of the lucky food on New Years day ( greens, black eyed peas, cornbread, ect...) . But what about other traditions around the world. Here is a list of New years traditions from around the globe.

1. Chile
Chileans families celebrate the New Year with deceased members by setting up chairs next to their graveside.This is a way to include all family members in the New Year's festivities for eternity.  

2.South Africa

In downtown Jo-burg, locals throw old appliances out the window. Look Out Below!

3.The Philippines 

 

It has been long noted that most culture's have found something to be inherently sacred about circles. But in the Philippines is most poignant during the start of the New Year. From wearing polka dot designs to stocking up on round fruits, eating grapes (12 exactly), and tossing coins around a pan as they march around the house, Filipinos keep everything round for the New Years. They do this because it's believed to bring good luck to every one in the home.

4. Denmark

Throughout the year, Danes save their old dishes only to throw them by the dozen at the doorsteps of family friends on New Years. In theory, the bigger the pile of broken dishes you find on your door steps, the bigger pile of friends you have. 

They also stand on chairs and then jump off them together at midnight. Leaping into January is supposed to banish bad spirits and bring good luck. 

 

5. Colombia

Hoping for a travel-filled year, residents tote empty suitcases around the block.

 

 6. Central and South America

 

In many Central and South American countries, the color of your underwear can either bring in love or money in the new year. Bolivia is perhaps most known for the tradition of wearing bright yellow undies to increase fortune for the the new year. In Mexico, red is most popular for bringing in love and happiness after midnight.  

 

7. Finland
It’s a longtime Finnish tradition to predict the coming year by casting molten tin into a container of water, and then interpreting the shape the metal takes after hardening. A heart or ring shape means a wedding in the New Year; a ship forecasts travel; and a pig shape signifies plenty of food. 

 

8. Scotland

 

During the New Year’s Eve celebration of Hogmanay, “first-footing” is practiced all over Scotland. The custom dictates that the first person to cross the threshold of a home in the New Year should carry a gift for luck (whiskey is the most common). The Scots also hold bonfire ceremonies, most notably in the small fishing village of Stonehaven, where townsmen parade while swinging giant fireballs on poles overhead (supposedly symbols of the sun, to purify the coming year.

 

So that is my top 8 New Years traditions from around the globe.  What special traditions do your family and friends uphold during this festive holiday?  

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

 

 

 

 

Do you give Handmade for Christmas?

This is my dilemma every year. Should I make something for someone or not. For one it is what I do for a living, I am a craftswoman and an artist. However some people just are not very appreciative of handmade gifts be it crochet, sewing, a painting or jewelry. I tend to buy straight out of the store for most of the people I know because, in my experience I get "the look" when I give handmade.You know the one I mean, the "oh so your being cheap this year look", even if it is made well or even if the materials were costly. Most of the time those gifts I give like that end up never seeing the light of day again after Christmas. I am always amazed with I sell the same items to enthusiastic customers that others snubbed there noses at getting as a present. Granted saying that I am sitting here making a scarf to send to someone for Christmas. I will not give up, I will continue to make for a few and buy what I can afford for other. Do any of you have this problem, I would love to hear about it. 

Trend Spotting

Upcoming 2014 Trends

Looks like 2014 may have a bit of the steampunk style to it's look.
 More to come as the trend spotting continues.....

New Looks and a New Name

Please bare with me as I am changing my blog. It is getting a whole new look and even a new name.
I have been told over the past year that people did not get the Title of my blog Just Jist. So I went with what people have been calling me for ages. Hippie Mama! But I spelled it Hippy cause I'm Hippy in the hips too..lol. I will be providing a lot of new content as well. Recipes and craft ideas and much more.

This just makes my heart hurt

Two parents in Washington state have been found guilty of murder after following the abusive parenting techniques advocated in the parenting book "To Train Up a Child" by Michael and Debi Pearl.
And this is not the first case.
The Schatzes: murdered 7 year old daughter Lydia during dicipline session.

The Paddocks: Murdered their 4 year old son, Sean

 Please help stop this book from being sold so that ignorant parents will not have this guideline to help them abuse, torture, and kill their children.
This book is written by sick people that need help themselves, and should not be advising parents on discipline. Please help by signing the petition below.

Sign The Petition 


Some of the discipline techniques the Pearls teach include:

• Using plastic tubing to beat children, since it hurts a lot but leaves fewer marks to alert authorities
• Wearing the plastic tubing around the parent's neck as a constant reminder to obey
• "Swatting" babies as young as six months old with instruments such as "a 12-inch willowy branch," thinner plastic tubing or a wooden spoon
• "Blanket training" babies by hitting them with an instrument if they try to crawl off a blanket on the floor
• Beating older children with rulers, paddles, belts and larger tree branches
• "Training" children with pain before they even disobey, in order to teach total obedience
• Giving cold water baths, putting children outside in cold weather and withholding meals as discipline
• Hosing off children who have potty training accidents
• Inflicting punishment until a child is "without breath to complain."

Michael Pearl tells one mother on his website, "I could break his anger in two days. He would be too scared to get angry. On the third day he would draw into a quiet shell and obey."

New Start

 I hope this post does not sound like whining I just need to get my thoughts out there.
This past summer was very rough for me. Moving to a new place and being very sick at the same time took it's toll, money wise and emotionally.I fell behind in my business and everything fell apart. I could no longer do what needed to be done to keep it going. I am still praying on a miracle to find the money somewhere to start seeing my doctors again and get the surgery I need. I had to close down my business and now I do not have that income any more either. So I am starting over. I am starting small. Just a few little things I can do from bed when I cant get up. I am trying to blog more, I missed it very much. I am also reopening my shop and am going to try doing it at ETSY this time. so fingers crossed it works. 
I will also be revamping my blog soon. I fell like giving it a new look will do some good. Any and all suggestions on anything I should do to my blog to make it more interesting is much appreciated.  Also if you want to suggest items I should carry in my shop feel free to do so. I need to find a way to work through the pain and improve my situation. I only have the first item up in my shop right now but more will be coming soon so check it out and give me any feedback you like.


MY ETSY SHOP 

Holiday Recipie "Sweet Potato Pie"

Being from the south sweet potato pie is a holiday staple, and something I believe everyone should try at least once in their life. It is similar in many ways to pumpkin pie. Sweet potato pie appears in the southern United States from the early colonial days. One of the first recorded recipes is from George Washington Carver.

George Washington CarveG

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

A form of this dessert traces back to the Renaissance Era in terms of mixing spices with sweet potatoes. - See more at: http://sdoeden.areavoices.com/2010/02/25/sweet-potato-pie-has-deep-roots/#sthash.qW47gAol.dpuf

Ingredients

2 cups peeled, cooked sweet potatoes
1 1/4 cups sugar
1/2 stick melted butter
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1 to 2 tablespoons bourbon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 cup milk
9-inch unbaked pie crust
3 egg whites

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

For the filling, combine the potatoes, 1 cup of the sugar, the butter, eggs, vanilla, salt, and spices. Mix thoroughly. Add the milk and continue to mix. Pour the filling into the pie crust and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Place the pie on a rack and cool to room temperature before covering with meringue.

For the meringue, using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form; beat in the remaining 1/4 cup sugar 1 tablespoon at a time. Continue beating until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is glossy and stiff, but not dry. With a rubber spatula, spoon the meringue onto the pie, forming peaks. Make sure the meringue touches the crust all around. Sprinkle with a pinch of granulated sugar. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until delicately browned. Cool and serve.

Mama Voxbox review

Influenster’s Mama VoxBox Review

I am a member on a website called Influenster and I was picked to receive a “Mama VoxBox” with several products to try and write a review.

My box came with:

• Belvita Soft Baked Biscuits (Oats & Chocolate flavor)
• 
  
• Dr. Scholl’s For Her Comfort Insoles
• 
  
• Pond’s Luminous Finish BB+ Cream
• 
  
• Annie’s Microwaveable Mac and Cheese Cup (White Cheddar Flavor)

Today I will be doing a review on the Belvita biscuits and the Ponds BB cream

Belvita Soft Baked Biscuits
In my opinion these are soft and chewy very tasty.  One “cookie” is 200 calories, 7 grams of fat and 5 grams of fiber.  It is a great on the go  breakfast or snack.

Pond’s Luminous Finish BB+ Cream
I don’t wear makeup ofter, I don't like the feel of liquid makeup. In my opinion most liquid makeup feels like a mask. I had never used BB cream before and I love it! It combines moisturizer, sunscreen, concealer, foundation and powder into just ONE STEP and it is super light! No heavy feel no feeling like I am putting on a mask, it is a truly not there feeling. Also the coverage is great and blends with skin very well also looks great once on.

Redbubble

Have you heard of Redbubble. I just love this site!
Redbubble is a creative community and marketplace with artists and designers hailing from every corner of the globe, displaying eye opening talent, skill, passion and enthusiasm for all forms of creativity there really is no better place for you to get your artistic kicks.
If you’re looking for unique and impossibly brilliant t-shirts, heart-stopping wall art, attention grabbing iPhone cases or any other beautifully designed products they are here to present an alternative to the mass producing hordes rudely hawking your individuality back to you on the main street.
For the creatives among you they have a marketplace. You can sell your work with zero hassle on a healthy range of incredibly high quality products. You’ll find a playground of like minded humans displaying work, admiring work and discussing work.

I have some of my own work there. take a look at my latest poster.
http://www.redbubble.com/people/wildivy/works/11068525-coffee-and-wine 

Book Reviews Life after Life and Allegiant

I am an avid reader always looking for that great book that make me feel that I just leaves me breathless. Sometime when you get a really great book you find it hard to believe that real life exist still after you finish the book and start to sober up from your reading bender. However the last two books I read are not those kind of books. I feel almost betrayed by the reviews I read prior top reading these novels. So I am going against the masses and telling you my personal opinion of them.


Life After Life 

(synopsis)
On a cold and snowy night in 1910, Ursula Todd is born, the third child of a wealthy English banker and his wife. Sadly, she dies before she can draw her first breath. On that same cold and snowy night, Ursula Todd is born, lets out a lusty wail, and embarks upon a life that will be, to say the least, unusual. For as she grows, she also dies, repeatedly, in any number of ways. Clearly history (and Kate Atkinson) have plans for her: In Ursula rests nothing less than the fate of civilization.
 
I have read hundreds of books and none have left such a feeling of unresolved plot as this one. I know I am going against the masses, but good writing does not always equate a good story. This book had the potential to be a great book but was executed poorly. There was no explanation as to why she keep being reborn, it is like,as many have said, Groundhogs day without the resolution. All in all it ended up being a hard read, much too long, overly redundant with an ending that seemed more like the end of a chapter than the end of a book.  I would give this book 2 stars for good writing but horrible storytelling. Just telling it like it is.

Allegiant

(synopsis)
 What if your whole world was a lie?
What if a single revelation—like a single choice—changed everything?
What if love and loyalty made you do things you never expected?

The faction-based society that Tris Prior once believed in is shattered—fractured by violence and power struggles and scarred by loss and betrayal. So when offered a chance to explore the world past the limits she’s known, Tris is ready. Perhaps beyond the fence, she and Tobias will find a simple new life together, free from complicated lies, tangled loyalties, and painful memories.

But Tris’s new reality is even more alarming than the one she left behind. Old discoveries are quickly rendered meaningless. Explosive new truths change the hearts of those she loves. And once again, Tris must battle to comprehend the complexities of human nature—and of herself—while facing impossible choices about courage, allegiance, sacrifice, and love.
 
I am sad about the ending but that is not the only disappointment in this book I absolutely loved the first two books but this one was just a letdown from start to finish. It is slow and painful and I feel depressed for having read it.For one thing is the main character had to die for the purpose of making a better story or solving a conflict or anything that actually made sense then fine, go for it. However by having her die the way she did actually made the book so much worse, it did not make anything about the story better and was just pointless. Thanks so much Ms.Roth for raising our hopes up with two good books and bombing on the last. This book makes me wish I had never started the series to begin with.  

Want a GOOD read?
try

Splintered by A.G. Howard

 

7th sign Paranormal

7th para

I have never been to Disneyland

 

I have not had the luck to go to Disneyland/Disney world but it seems like everyone I know has. I am not talking about my lost childhood that is long gone. I am speaking of my children's. I have always wanted to take them there at least once and it has never been where I could. There just has never been the money to go, even when I was working 2 jobs. My son is 15 this year and my daughter is 13 I am hoping I will get to take them before they are grown. Sometimes it seems like everyone around you is having fun and you are standing still watching it all go by. I recently watched some extended family take their kids not once but twice in the past two months because 1. they live so close and 2. other family members help them. My little family is a bit of the black sheep and do not fit in well and do not get invited to most family things because we do not have the money. So not only do I get left out of things but my kids do as well because of me. This year is the first time I have ever had a real vacation I worked my butt off to have it and it was only for 3 days. Best time of our life! I know this post is a major rant but sometimes I just need to let it out. We are in the middle of moving and all the stress of that as well as I threw my back out and I am doing my best to push through the pain. I guess everything just adds up after a while and I need to vent. Is there anything you wish you could do that there never seems to be a way to do? 

Comment below and let us know or just vent with me!

Packing and Moving

I have to say one of the things that I dislike the most is packing up and moving. Now don't get me wrong, I am super glad to be getting out of this apartment and into a house. We have lived in a 3 bedroom apartment for 3 years now and I have loathed it for 2 and 1/2 of those years. The maintenance was horrible for the most part, the owners a pain to deal with, and in my current health for the past year the stairs have been just horrible on me. So yes I am super trilled to be moving to a house that is bigger with no stairs and so far seems to be good owners. It doesn't hurt that the rent is cheaper as well. However I absolutely hate the process of moving. All of the packing and loading and then once you finally get everything moved you have to put it all up again. I have already thrown my back out and we are not even halfway moved yet. Oh well onward and upward. If only there was a moving faerie that could *poof* my stuff there for me...lol
Have a great Wednesday!!!

Kindle giveaway!!!

UPDATE FROM NOXICARE!!!

From now until June 7th, get SIX of your friends to "Like" us on Facebook and you'll be entered to win a brand new Kindle eReader!
GO HERE AND CHECK IT OUT!!

Mini Post

So I ran across this and just had to pass it along to all of you bloggers. Go here to get this great super cute shirt! 

Are you a blogger? Know a blogger? Then you NEED this shirt! Gift it to a blogger friend! Just buy it! Wear it! Rock it! Blog on!

$11

Buy it!

2 reserved towards goal of 15

The design will only print if we reach our goal

Still Kicking

Yep! I'm still around and kicking. School is out for the summer for the kids and myself as well. No summer pell grant means no summer classes for me :( however I need the time off. I am hoping to make this summer the summer of my returning health *fingers crossed* I decided that this past week while I have been recuperating from a tonsillectomy and adnoidectomy or however it is spelled. Being an adult having this surgery is kind of horrible, I am still hurting and my throat is still swelled and I just still feel all out of sorts. However through all of this I decided if my doctor will allow I want to go ahead and get my stomach surgery this summer as well. maybe that way by the time school starts back in the fall I will be over the healing process and ready to learn and on my way back to a healthier me! Also I will be moving to a new house in a few weeks and I hope to squeeze in a trip to the beach or two. So that is my busy summer lineup. Fingers crossed and praying I get it all done and get it done with out losing my mind..lol What is your Summer plans?

Soldiers' Angels (please read)

Dear readers,

I have been a member of this organization for over 5 years now. This is a wonderful organization doing all they can to help our Soldiers in any way they can. Please read this email I recieved from them today and if you can help out even if it is only a little bit everything counts and everything matters. Thousands of men and women fight every day for our safety and freedom, let us do what we can to help them in return and show them that we care.  You don't have to support the war to support our troops.


The following is the email

Dear Angels,

Last week I told you about all those pallets of wonderful gifts and supplies for the troops, waiting for postage.  So many of you came through like champs, donating to send thousands of care packages for deployed heroes so that they would know they aren't forgotten.

But we still have thousands of care packages sitting on the warehouse floor.  We need $30,000 right now in order to send the rest of these supplies to the troops who need them!

Please click to help us get these supplies to American heroes!
 

The power of a care package comes when a tired, stressed soldier comes back to his bunk and sees that someone remembered.  But right now, the power of all these care packages is hidden, sitting quietly on a warehouse floor instead of on a hero's bunk. 

Your help is needed right now to unleash the power of these packages, to pour all the morale-boosting support out into the hands of a hero who needs to know America remembers!

Please click to help us get these supplies to American heroes!

With the impending drawdown in Afghanistan, troops are experiencing reduced access to basic amenities.  Each one of these care packages filled with supplies, love and support from home, is more important than ever!

Will you join me in showing America's heroes that they are never forgotten?  Can you help us send just one care package?   More than one--maybe 10?

Please help in whatever way you can.  Every single dollar moves these care packages one step closer from the warehouse to the heroes who need them.

Wingtip to Wingtip,

Patti Patton-Bader
Founder, Soldiers' Angels
www.soldiersangels.org

P.S.  You can bring a smile to a hero's face during these most trying times.  It is truly more important than ever that we show these men and women that our hearts are still with them.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Also for all of you crafty ladies and gents there is the Hope Blanket project
click here to learn more...http://soldiersangels.org/index.php?page=blankets-of-hope

Still Here!!

Yes! surprisingly enough I am still here. I took a break for awhile because I had just put to much on my plate. With running the business, going to school full time, blogging, doing product reviews, and taking care of kids hubby and home, it was just all to much. and finally it all caught up with me and I got the flu along with strep, ear infection bronchitis and then pneumonia all in a 3 week period. I am feeling a lot better now. I still have a touch of bronchitis and the ears are still a little funny but I am still chipping away at the dream trying to do all I can to achieve it. I am not going to promise that I will blog every day, I will try for once a week but if that does not happen I will not feel so bad about it anymore. I have to be more concerned about my health so I can take care of my kids. I finally decided to buy a sewing machine a few weeks back and have been sewing like crazy until I got sick
so Tell me what you think!!!

All can be found here at WILD IVY  http://wildivydesign.storenvy.com/

Found on Pinterest

FOUND ON PINTEREST

EVERY Target shopper NEEDS to know this: If the price ends in 8, it will be marked down again. If it ends in a 4, its the lowest it will be. Targets mark down schedule. -
MONDAY: Kids Clothing, Stationery (office supplies, gift wrap), Electronics.
TUESDAY: Womens Clothing and Domestics.
WEDNESDAY: Mens Clothing, Toys, Health and Beauty.
THURSDAY: Lingerie, Shoes, Housewares.
FRIDAY: cosmetics.
 This is maybe the best pin EVER !

Tired and Losing my mind

So I have not been able to post lately because I am just so busy. I am working so hard to try and get all of my orders out in a timely manner, go to school full time, blog, and take care of the kids and home. I am about to lose it!!!! Everything is falling behind. I am scarping by on school and if I don't catch up soon I will fall behind, my orders are going out late and causing angry customers, I am falling behind on my reviews, and I my home looks like hell. Not to mention I am tired all the time, hardly sleep and am starting to get sick often. I just can not seem to find that happy medium. I want to be super mom but am falling short.

Yeah They are not knocking on my door.
I am trying so hard I want my business to keep going and I feel so bad if I disappoint someone. How to I make it right for being late on a n order though? I understand that if you pay for it you want it now!! At the same time my professors want their homework now! I have tried hiring friends here and there to help ship orders but for the most part it bit me in the but. I have one or two that work really well but they have lives of their own and not much time either. I just cant seem to keep myself from adding more to my plate when it is already full. I need my business because it is how I pay my bills but I need school as well because it will help provide a better future for my family than just relying on my business forever. I guess it is just one of those days where I need to rant because I have to let it out. I know there is not any great answers but if you have any comment! anything words of wisdom, encouragement, or just get over it! Does your life ever feel this way? Is there a light at the end of the tunnel?

Hope you have a happy and hectic free weekend!

January Conscious Box

  January's Conscious box!!
Here is what we got!

34 Degrees
Bite into the more natural, thinner, crispier cracker. Perfect with your favorite cheeses or just on their own, 34 Degrees crackers are delectable treats suited for any culinary creation. Made with unbleached wheat flour, a hint of natural cheese flavor, sesame seeds, and a pinch of salt. Yum!

Chia Shots
The Chia Co is proud to pumping out chia seeds all day long. Why’s that? Because Chia seeds are one of the richest plant-based sources of omega-3, dietary fiber, protein, and antioxidants. The Chia Co also works with nature to ensure sustainable agriculture; this means strategically timing crops, using the best soil, and enacting smart methods of growing, like gravity fed irrigation and chemical-free mechanical harvesting.

LARABAR
We’re excited to be trying out the Uber. What’s different? This bar has got big texture (along with big taste!). This gluten-free, non-GMO, all natural, and Kosher scrumptiously succulent bar is packed with a flavor profile that’ll stick to your memory without sticking to your teeth. No refined sugar and made with dry-roasted nuts (no oil added).

Pamela’s Products
We fell in love with Pamela’s Products within the first bite. These wheat-free, gluten-free brownies are not only delicious, but they’re also super quick and easy to make. Pamela’s also regularly supports autism and celiac organizations, and is a member of the American Celiac Disease Alliance. Go Pamela’s!

Q.Bel
Don’t say we didn’t warn you. These crispy mint wafers are incredibly delicious and deserving of a savory taste bud addition. Non-GMO, whole grain, dairy-free, and made with 70% cacao makes this a healthy alternative to any cookie that might be stocking the pantry.

Teeccino
Looking for a seriously superfood cereal? Check out Teechia, the high performance super seeds that pack a serious punch of fiber and protein. A bowl of Teechia will provides lasting energy with lasting satisfaction. Whip up a bowl and take your first spoonful of chia, quinoa, amaranth, ramon, and pumpkin seeds!

Sahale Snacks
All natural ingredients + culinary magic = a great tasting, healthy snack that is deserving of serious celebration. Sahale Snacks blends scrumptious whole almonds with orange blossom honey, dried cranberries, toasty sesame seeds, and sea salt. Made in a 100% wind-powered facility makes sure Mother Earth is just as happy as your taste buds!

Tea Forte
Refresh yourself with this invigorating mint from Tea Forte. With a taste that will make your taste buds tingle, Tea Forte is the perfect follow up to lunch, the morning coffee, or anything else that might make your coworkers’ olfactory wonder what’s up. Fortified with antioxidants makes this a mint that helps support your body’s defenses too.

Waxalene
Drop the old petroleum jelly and go with something more natural. Organic Soy oil, Beeswax, natural vitamin E, and organic rosemary oil makes this a healthy, nourishing moisturizer and base for everything from dry skin to make up. No petroleum, not greasy, completely biodegradable and free of animal testing.


Dale’s Raw Protein Bar
Dale has been whipping up some of the best raw food around for quite some time, and boy are we excited to be loading you up with one of his incredible bars. Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and loaded with protein, Dale knows what it takes to make an awesome treat. No artificial preservatives or sweeteners. Simple ingredients for a simply awesome snack. (PS. Don’t sweat the refrigeration suggestion. Dale suggests refrigerating to prevent falling apart in warmer climates.)

MAAKOA
Koopuwa. Just say it a few times. It’s fun! Koopuwa! What is it? It’s a super food, super antioxidant, super-stimulating blend of phytonutrients with deliciously distinctive flavors coming right from fruits. Drink right from the pouch or mix with the morning smoothie to get all the Cupuaçu, Acai, red grape, pomegranate, and berry berry goodness inside!

Nutiva Hemp Seed
Hemp Seed is one of nature’s wonders, just now becoming re-celebrated by so many in the health community. These seeds are an incredible 33% protein and are filled with omegas perfect for building a better brain and body. Eat plain, add as a condiment, or mix in a shake.

BONUS! Nordic Naturals
Fish oils are great for supporting brain function, memory, and mood. The benefit comes from omega-3 and omega-9 oils, which have anti-inflammatory alongside anti-clotting benefits. Nordic Natural only uses the finest fish oils, third party tested for environmental toxins like heavy metals and dioxins. As a result, they produce fish oils that far surpass international standards.

Friday fun

So many things going on right now and so much I need to blog. I met some lovely artist I want to introduce you too when I was in New Orleans. I have been trying some great products lately that I want to shout about. However before I do all of that I have to share that I am super excited because I broke 1000 sales in my store Wild Ivy tonight!!!!! I have worked so hard on this all year I have lost sleep and time and to see 1000 sales in my first year is just amazing to me. Thank you to everyone that has ordered from me and in honor of the 1000 sale mark I am going to host another giveaway. Right now I am looking for sponsors that would like to add something to this giveaway I would love to make it big and great!!! Anyone interested in being a part of this giveaway message me at theartist421@gmail.com or just comment here. If you would like to see my shop stop in and check it out!
http://wildivydesign.storenvy.com

Have a great Weekend!!

Hectic Wednesday

Hi all Just stopping by to let you all know  I have not forgotten about my blog! I have been out of town on a business trip/vacation in New Orleans. If you didn't know we are looking to move in June when our lease is up. Neither my husband or myself is happy with the place we live in, my kids dont really like it here either.  Both my husband and myself are Artist by trade and we are both in school to have other options available to us because we are tired of being starving artist. The whole cliche is not so funny when you never know where your next dollar is coming from. We do not live in a community that support artist at all. We were looking into Atlanta but were not very sure so we decided to check out New Orleans and let me tell you I think we may have found where we belong. I hope anyway. New Orleans defiantly supports their artist and it looks like we could do pretty good there. Of course we wont quit school we still need that back up plan and I am only 1 and 1/2 years away from my degree. We are hoping to go back over spring break to make our final decision. So fingers crossed! have a great Wednesday!!
Here are a few pics from the trip!!