Denny's? Not So Much, But Nannerpuss...he makes me happy!
February 13, 2009
February 1, 2009
The Sadder Side Of Life
You're Never Really Ready
My grandmother Elaine suffered from a mild heart attack that hit us all out of nowhere. She was hospitalized and on very rocky ground. She'd aspirated into her lungs and was suffering from pneumonia. The doctor's didn't think she'd make it and even had us all come in to say our goodbyes. This was more than a week ago. It was pretty much the worst night of my life.
We had the waiting room packed to capacity. Son's, Daughter's, Aunt's, Uncle's and a bazillion grandchildren from the age of 6 months to 35 years. It was moving to see and annoying for the medical staff to say the least. My grandmother like most grandmothers was the glue that kept us all together. I felt close to her. She'd treated me like I'd secretly always wished my own Mother had. I wasn't ready for any of this. Selfish but true.
She fought though and hard and eventually was moved out of the ICU, and all the scary tubes were nowhere to be found. She was awake again, breathing on her own, lucid, talking and cracking smiles and passing out hugs. I thought this meant she was safe again. I wasn't worried or the least bit scared. Things were better! We could all relax again.
Two days later she passed. We're all devastated, me entirely, but I am glad that we all had one more chance to give her a hug, tell her it was good to see her again and that we loved her. These last two weeks have been one heck of a ride. I find myself randomly thinking of her and either smiling or crying or both. From the cheese sandwiches she used to make my brother and I as kids, her famous 7 layer bean dip she'd make when she knew I was coming over or the candy she'd sneak to my kiddos when I wasn't looking, the very same thing she'd do for me when I was their age.
I'll miss her like crazy and I'm thankful for all she taught me about life and of course for that little bit of extra time we all got to spend with her. I would have done it differently had I known, but wouldn't we all?
January 17, 2009
The CPSIA can kiss it, pretty sure
Warning....smart ass coming.
What is the CPSIA you ask?? Why it is the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of course. It is a law that will go into effect on February 10th, 2009 mandating testing for lead and phthalates in any and every item intended for a child 12 and under. Yay right? Go safety!!! Well, not so much.
Although I agree toys should be safe as should any item for a child the law was written at a time when toys were being imported from China contaminated with lead paint. Remember Dora? Who doesn't? It was a pretty big scare and a wake up call that shook parents across the nation. It caused congress to act and fast (...and they pick toys, ha?), so fast that they didn't consider the effect it would have on the small business world or little ole crafty peeps like you and like me (who might I add, have never even been to China).
Words cannot even begin to describe the level of frustration I feel in regards to this asinine law. It is forcing many of us to do one of two things. 1) Shut down our businesses entirely or 2) Stop selling Children's items and "Re-Market".
Children's businesses can stay in business if they'd like, they just need to be rich!
Read this example I found on Forbes.com of the cost impact for the average Jane
Crafters "must put a sample item from each lot of goods through testing after complete assembly, and the testing must be applied to each component. For a given hand-knitted sweater, for example, one might have to pay not just, say, $150 for the first test, but added-on charges for each component beyond the first: a button or snap, yarn of a second color, a care label, maybe a ribbon or stitching--with each color of stitching thread having to be tested separately.
Suddenly the bill is more like $1,000--and that's just to test the one style and size. The same sweater in a larger size, or with a different button or clasp, would need a new round of tests--not just on the button or clasp, but on the whole garment. The maker of a kids' telescope (with no suspected problems) was quoted a $24,000 testing estimate, on a product with only $32,000 in annual sales."
And Forbes.com views on CPSIA?
"CPSIA is now shaping up as a calamity for businesses and an epic failure of regulation, threatening to wipe out tens of thousands of small makers of children's items from coast to coast, and taking a particular toll on the handcrafted and creative, the small-production-run and sideline at-home business, not to mention struggling retailers. How could this have happened?"
I'm scared. I'm angry I'm confused and I'm totally heart broken. I've voted, protested and even spoken with the Executive Assistant of the Consumer Product Safety Office (and if you know me that last one is HUGE).
I can't shut down my business especially in this economy. My husband's IT job is safe, for now, but his second job as a Real Estate Agent... well should I say more? It's pretty much toast. It's particularly sad for me because I started my business because of my daughter and now I'm not even allowed to make her anything.
So where do I go until someone big enough to care steps in and saves the day? Well, I go and get in my car and drive to each and every local children's boutique I have worked so very hard to get into and pull my items off the shelves. I contact wholesale/retail clients from sea to shining sea to either swap out the "child" like items they have left or take product back in and take a loss. Basically, I guess I just redirect my entire business and keep my fingers crossed that someday this stupid law will be recognized for what it is and I can make Riley whatever I'd like.
The End.
January 16, 2009
January 8, 2009
Name That Song Contest!!!
Name That Song!!!
Click on the each of the nine earrings above and guess the song they're referring to by either their title or their description. Then email me all nine song titles/and or the artist that sings it at littledaisychains(at)gmail.com (or post the answers below but keep in mind people could steal them).
The top three entries will win a free pair of hoops of their choosing! I've announced the contest on Etsy, as well as on Twitter. Now is your chance to join in the music type fun.
On and for motivation, the top entry so far has only 5 of the 9 songs correct. YOU can top that!
All three winners will be announced at 10:30 pm Friday night.
Good luck!!!!
January 5, 2009
January 3, 2009
Why Hello ArtFire!!
Why Hello, ArtFire!!
I've tried new selling venues before and for some reason I just can't get fired up about it (bah-doom ch)! I get as far as signing up and that's about it. Maybe a listing or two max to try it out if I'm feeling extra motivated but then nothing for days, weeks and then poof it's been a year and I haven't been back. Ever.
This time it's going to be different. This time I'm not going to bitch and moan about learning all things new I'm just going to stick with it, explore, list and do. I have to say I think that it helps tons that listing items on ArtFire is actually free. I dig taking risks that don't cost me a penny.
Although, wait. I think I did pay a membership fee. Yup, I did. Okay so a whopping 700 pennies a month. Still not bad!
If you haven't checked ArtFire out yet please take a quick peek. It basically reminds me of early Etsy and feels a tad more promising then others I've doinked around with. Plus it would be cool to be able to see artists I know and love tons and tons.
Yay for new!
Oh and did I mention...ArtFire gives you seller stats?! Hells yeah!
January 2, 2009
Yay! I'm still loved!! I was all kinds of panicky.
Today Was Like A Big Fat Welcome Back Hug!
My first 24 hours back in Etsy land and I sold 6 things, made it into 4 treasuries (one of which ended up on the front page of Etsy, score)! I got contacted by a rockin' style blog to be featured in the up and coming future AND got an awesome sized wholesale order. What the, what?!! I DID miss all things Etsy, crafty and fun! I enjoyed making, and emailing (oh my god my email was so dead during my break it was nice but not nice, ya know??). I was so afraid my first day back I wouldn't get a single convo or email, comment on my blog, response to a twitter comment, a sale, etc. I thought all that time, 10 days....of not promoting, not making, not doing anything crafty would totally screw me over and I'd be lost at sea. Think I'll have to try this break thing a little more often now that I know it won't be the death of me. ;O)
Breaks are good people, good!!!
January 1, 2009
Happy New Year!!!!
Happy New Year!!!
Can I tell you how glad I am that it is now 2009??! Soooooooo glad! I'm finally over the flu, my body is no longer reacting to the new medicine my Dr. decided to give me, my house is super clean and shiny, my Etsy shop is now up and running after a huge unheard of 10 day Beck break, my crafty corner is all kinds of ready and now I actually think I am too! Phew!
Hope you all had a lovely holiday season and a rockin' new year and a big fat yay for all things new!!!!
December 21, 2008
Some rad type goodies I've bought...
Yay! Now that one of our family holiday parties is over I can share with you a few things I've bought this year. Score! I've been itching to do a show and tell.
Last year I did a handmade Christmas, all goodies I bought for the family were from Etsy. This year I tried to focus more on supporting LOCAL Portland artisans. Didn't always work but it felt so much better when I was able to support my local community, let me tell you.
1. Pot Holders by Appetite Home (not this exact set, but you get the idea)
2. 2009 Desk Callendar by Cecily Ink
3. Swallow Pendant by The Pendant Factory
4. Petite Black & White Wallet by Balasa Designs
5. Sock Monkey By Bada Babies
6. Maple Teething and Grasping Square By Little Sapling Toys
With the exception of the teething ring I so wanted to keep it all for myself. Can't wait until I can share more fun goodies that I've purchased this year!!
Yay, Etsy Front Page 12/21/08!!! ;O)
Etsy Front Page 12/21/08
I totally missed it but today while I was with the fam damily for some yule tide type fun I made the Etsy Front page!! I was an alternate for the screen shot you see up above and when one of the items had sold I got popped in. Score! Ruby Girl (you need to check out her jewelry, pure awesomeness) twittered me to share the good news. I did some hunting by using the handy dandy Majaba site (well Craft Cult now, but my brain has yet to switch it over) to see which item it was. 15 new hearts so wah lah the Daisy like goodie below was what made it up, up and away.
So cool!!
December 18, 2008
PSU SHOW NOW CANCELLED....Figures.
SOOOOOOOOOOOO Bummed!
Hello vendors,
It is with extreme difficulty that I have come to this decision.
The Farmer's Market for the 20th has been canceled and the latest forecast for Saturday is 28° an freezing rain. This means that there will be very little traffic for us and travel for all of us would be dangerous.
Despite the marketing that has been done, the success of this venue hinges on the visibility of the farmer's market and the traffic created by it.
Booth fees cannot be fully refunded because much of the money was spent on marketing, postcards and the donation promised to the Women's Resource Center.
I'll be working with Handmade NW to figure out how much money will be returned to each of you and checks will be going out next week.
It is a rare instance that there will be any refund due to a severe weather event, we cannot promise that this will be the case for future events.
Have a safe and pleasant weekend and feel free to email me with your concerns.
Sincerely, "Organizer lady"
Last Craft Show Of The Year!!! This Sat. 12/20
Yay!!!
PSU Solstice Art & Craft Market
Saturday December 20th from 8am-3pm
1825 SW BroadwayPortland, OR 97201 - Smith Memorial Building
It's finally here, my last craft show of the year. I'm super excited! After having a show every weekend since the 25th of October I'm ready for a breather to say the least. I'll be celebrating this Saturday with special deals and discounts to hopefully clear out my end of year stock.
Come say hey, get last minute holiday goodies & save on all kinds of Daisy Chains goodness.
All Necklaces buy 2 get one free
All Hair goodies buy 2 get one free
All Earrings buy 2 get one free
All Mirrors buy 2 get one free
All Bracelets buy 2 get one free
Want to mix and match? Go for it! Freebie will be the lowest priced item of the three.
Only blog readers will know the down low so take advantage.
See you there!!!
*Special prices for craft show only, thanks.
December 14, 2008
Holy Crafty Wonderland!!
WOW!
Today I braved Portland's snow storm and headed out to volunteer at Crafty Wonderland's huge Holiday show! Although my normal 30 minute commute took an hour and forty five minutes it was so totally worth it. I wasn't a vendor this year, although I was hoping beyond all hopes I'd be able to fill one of those empty spots, I did get to volunteer. From 11am to 2pm I got to be a hero. Why you ask?? I my friends, was the magic potty pointer outer. Among my potty saving duties I got to point people in the direction of the ATM, hand out vendor maps, smile and grin, meet and greet and count the shoppers with one of those handy dandy metal clicker thingies. Click, click.....I dug the clicking. Oooh and the most awesome thing!?? One of the shoppers who asked me a question, totally wearing one of my clippies, awesome!!! By the time I was done volunteering 1734 customers had entered to shop all things crafty.
Oh...and did I mention Littleput Books brought me Hot Chocolate? Awesome!! Thanks Ryan!
I'd brought 300 buck-a-roo's with me to do my own holiday shopping this year and I seriously could not wait to get started. The idea that I could now actually be on the other side of the booth for once and come and go as I pleased was kind of relaxing. I nearly got all the way through the entire show booth by booth but unfortunately with the silly ole snow storm and it getting dark I had to jet with about 30 more booths I didn't get to peek at! I tried though, swear!
The ride home was way, way more scary by the way......
December 12, 2008
Butler Creek Elementary Bazaar This Saturday!
Tomorrow come say hey at the Butler Creek Elementary School Holiday Bazaar!
December 13th 9am-3pm
Butler Creek Elementary School 2008 Holiday Bazaar
2789 SW Butler Road Gresham, OR 97080
December 3, 2008
EtsyKids Trunk Show - My First Trunk Show Evers!
EtsyKids Trunk Show Thursday 12/4!!
Little Stumpie Pin Brooch by littleoddforest
16 handpicked EtsyKids team members have been chosen to show off their best handmade goodies for kiddos big and small this Thursday Decmber 4th at 5PM PST/8PM EST in the Etsy Labs!
http://daisychains.etsy.com/ <------ That's Me!
Come join the fun, win door prizes, enjoy random giveaways, take part in special sales and more!
Each artist will get 5-7 minutes to show you their stuff as well as an item from an EtsyKids team member not in the show to help share the love. I will be going fourth and I'm sooooooo excited and all kinds of nervous.
See you in the Treehouse (Etsy's Virtual Lab)
(you'll need an Etsy account to join, it's free and easy to register)!
Fingers crossed!
December 2, 2008
Holiday Show Recap!
Little Daisy Chains Live
December 7th 11am-6pm
Handmade NW Formal Holiday Artisans Fair
The Chelsea Ballroom 1510 SE 9th Portland, OR 97214
Handmade NW Formal Holiday Artisans Fair
The Chelsea Ballroom 1510 SE 9th Portland, OR 97214
1001 SW Broadway & Salmon Portland, OR 97201
10% of sales go toward the league
(Amanda Bowe will represent me at this show)
10% of sales go toward the league
(Amanda Bowe will represent me at this show)
December 13th 9am-3pm
Butler Creek Elementary School 2008 Holiday Bazaar
2789 SW Butler Road Gresham, OR 97080
December 14th 11am - 7pm - Volunteering (On Waiting List)
Crafty Wonderland Super Colossal Holiday Sale
At The Oregon Convention Center - Exhibit Hall E
777 NE MLK Jr. Blvd. Portland, OR 97232
At The Oregon Convention Center - Exhibit Hall E
777 NE MLK Jr. Blvd. Portland, OR 97232
December 20th 8am - 3pm
2nd Annual Winter Solstice Sale
Smith Memorial Student Union at Portland State University - PSU
1825 SW Broadway Portland, OR 97201
Hope to see you at one of these great shows!!
December 1, 2008
Little Daisy Chains Cyber Monday Sale!!!
Yay For Cyber Monday!
Free Shipping OR a Free pair of Itty Bitties! Your choice, you can even choose the color, score.
November 28, 2008
12 Days of Christmas with the EtsyKids Team!
On the first day of Christmas, the ETSYKIDS team members gave to me….a Christmas event you really must see!
November 28th – December 10th, join EtsyKids for 12 days of fabulous, festive fun and dreamy holiday prizes.
Here’s how to play:
Each day the EtsyKids blog will contain a post showing an image that’s hidden in an item listing on a few different EtsyKids team members’ shops, along with a clue on how to find it. When a contestant finds just one of the hidden images, they send an Etsy conversation to the day’s entry collector with a link to the listing where they found it. Once their conversation is received, they’ll be entered into a drawing for an amazing EtsyKids prize. Those who find images for all 12 days are entered into the grand prize drawing! Participants may use one of two methods to find the images:
1. Begin by looking at each of the 7,000+ EtsyKids listings, or 2. Decipher the clue to the keyword to narrow down the listings to under 100.
The clues are word association to the keyword. After you think you have the keyword, enter that word and "etsykids team" into Etsy's search, and start looking!
Example: Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus...........nativity Thus, you would enter "nativity etsykids team" to narrow down the listings to hunt through. The clues start out easy, and they get harder!
Please do not post the answers anywhere - all answers will be revealed at the end of the game. If you don't jump into the game until after it's started, no problem! You can still enter that day's drawing, as well as the remaining days, then go back and find the previous days to enter the grand prize drawing.The Etsykids blog will also let contestants know who to contact to enter, as well as the prize(s) that will be awarded that day. The number of prizes will increase each day and the winners will be selected at random.***Contestants can enter once each day.Within 24 hours of winning, the lucky winners will be contacted via Etsy Conversation, and MUST contact (via Etsy Conversation) the prize donor with their mailing address within 2 days of being contacted. If they fail to contact the prize donor within the given time, a new winner will be selected.
Have fun!!!!
November 27, 2008
This Sunday Shop For A Cause!
Secret Society Sale - Sunday Nov. 30th
Black Friday shopping at 4am, 6am??! Why not skip the crazy this year and hit the snooze button. Save your shopping for a cause this Sunday at the Secret Society Ballroom from 10am-6pm.
10% of every gift you purchase for a loved one will go directly to the Oregon Food Bank to feed those in need this Holiday Season. Canned food and non-perishable food donations the day of the event are also highly encouraged and welcomed. Hope to see you there!
To view local artisans you'll also be helping to support this Sunday please click here.
The Secret Society Ballroom is located at 116 NE Russell in Portland, Oregon (next to the Wonder Ballroom). Admission is free and the bar will open from 4pm-6pm.
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