Giveaway

I'm going to continue my giveaways here instead of facebook. Still in the spirit of making room this week's giveaways are sundresses for bigger girls, size 2 to 4. All dresses are 100% cotton, machine wash on cold, dry on low heat.

This is the blue flower sundress. Comes in size 4 with matching panties. From back of neck to hem is 22 inches. White rick rack trim around the hem and collar with clear flower buttons down the back.

This is the pink daisy sundress, size 2 with matching panties. From back of neck to hem is 21 inches. Daisy trim around collar and pockets with pink flower buttons down the back.

This is the cherry sundress, size 3 with matching panties. From back of neck to hem is 21 1/2 inches. Red rick rack around collar with red buttons down the back.

Comment below on which dress you like. Remember if not in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, there will be a $6 shipping charge. Share this link with everyone. 

Small light at the end of the tunnel

This staying focused things is not easy. It takes a lot of effort to stay focused, but I'm sticking with it. My walks are going well. I even added a jog, well more like a trot, to the mix. It takes me about an hour to do 4 miles. It keeps my mind clear and I do a lot of thinking. It's my "me" time. I have noticed that a lot of people don't like to spend time with themselves. They fill up every hour, minute, second with something, work, friends, family, etc. I used to do the same thing. Then I realized that if I didn't take time for myself, I couldn't be the best mother, daughter, wife, employee, girlfriend, Joycelyn I could be. If I keep giving and giving and never take time to replenish, revive and refresh myself, I would eventually burn out, which would not be good for anyone. I also noticed that may don't spend time with themselves because they may be running from something. In the therapy world, they are called escape artist. They will do anything to avoid dealing with a problem or problems. They don't want to see the elephant in the room. From personal experience, the elephant gets bigger and eventually the problem, whatever it is, will catch up with you. So I try to spend time with myself so I can see clearly how to deal with problems or ways to keep myself moving in the right direction or whatever. I have come to enjoy it, even setting some walking/running goals that I really see myself accomplishing. What do you do to spend time with yourself? Thanks for sharing.

Cloudy but getting clearer

Ok. The knee is better. I really need to get back on my exercise routine. Those morning walks are so refreshing and clears my mind. I often think of solutions to problems or more creative things I want to do or try. I want to lose at least 15 pounds and I'm giving myself until September to do so. I think that is a reasonable amount of time. I have all these dresses that I made but can't wear. Very frustrating. It's something about a dress, that fits well and shows your shape that is soo sexy. I think so anyway. So I have the running shoes and workout wear set out by the bed. It's amazing that once I get into my routine, I really enjoy exercising. It's getting in the routine that's the HUGE problem. Since I have had some light bulb moments and personal revelations, maybe I can stick to this lifestyle change. I'm calling out Margaret. I hear she is joining Curves so she can wear a fairy costume for the Cowtown Indie Bazaar. Maybe we can be each others cheerleader. I know it helps me when I put it out there for all to see and have to be accountable to someone.  But no fairy is complete without the wings and something on the head. We gotta work on those wings for sure. Sorry Margaret but I can't wait.

Who/what do you turn to if you need to stay on track and keep going? Thanks for sharing.

Still Trying to Focus

I'm getting discouraged. I was all set to start exercising and my knee is giving me the blues. I don't know if it's the weather, or the fact that years ago my doctor told me I needed to stop kickboxing, step aerobics and running and do more swimming, aqua aerobics and cycling. Well since I hate cycling and don't know how to swim, I totally ignored his professional advice. Now I think I'm paying the price. So I'm trying to stay focused on my Etsy shop, coming up with new designs, blogging and doing some home improvements. Yesterday I met with some team member at a local coffee shop. I was so inspired. We were brainstorming about some creating some small craft shows and venting about being a crafter/small business owner/self-employed or whatever you want to call it. I need more of those meeting to keep me fresh and going. On the drive home, I had so many ideals. Here is where a digital recorder would have come in handy. I'll put that on my long list of "supplies" I need to buy. What gets you inspired? What do you do to stay focused or get re-focused? Thanks for sharing.

Wicked Wednesday Week 5 "Happy Father's Day"

Wicked Wednesday is back. I'm a daddy's girl and since Father's Day will be here soon, I'm gonna feature some great items dads will love. Let's not wait till the day before or day of the get dad a great gift. We start and plan early for mom, lets do the dame for day. I will be doing a feature once a week until Father's Day. Today feature is bracelets.

Topography (reticulated link bracelet w/ 6mm faceted rhodolite garnet) by Twisted Metal1

Funky Measure Tape Bracelet - Upcycled - Metal/Plastic (Black /White) by Home Made Karma

BARBWIRE - Sterling Silver bangle by Sophiapip

Brown leather cord/brown braided leather hemp bracelet by Martin1206

Steampunk Cuff Bracelet - Vintage Brass INCREDIBLE AIRPLANE by Edmdesigns

Deep Burgandy Leather Cuff with Stitch Detail by Birdhouse Designs

There is a bracelet for every price point and every type of dad. One of my favorite memories of my dad is the bike rides would take on a sunday afternoon after church. We didn't say much, but the fact that he took time out for me was special. I love you dad. Thanks for everything. What is your favorite memory with you dad, or father figure?

Re-Focus

I haven't been blogging in a loonngg time. I lost my focus for a moment. What I have noticed about myself is that I get bored very easily. Not sure if that's the creative part of me, or the lazy part of me. I haven't seemed to master the art of juggling, many task, that is. Either I'm all in with one thing and other things lack. I'd be focused on my Etsy shop, but my exercise/eating healthy routine would suffer. I'd be all focused on exercising and eating healthy and blogging would suffer. Can I only concentrate on one thing at a time? I hope not. A lot of changes have occured in my life in the past few months, some good and some not. I ran into a creativity wall. So I took a suggestion and did something else, totally unrelated. I let out some frustation on my bathroom and ripped up the tile floor. Don't worry, it needed it. The tile was coming up anyway and I got tired of looking at it. That may have re-focued my view. Now that I have a lot on my plate, I really need to focus. People are counting on me to pull my weight. What do you do when you need to re-focus?

I GOT MY FIRST SALE!!!!!

After finishing up for the day and about to turn off my computer, I decided to check my email one last time. Little did I know that a surprise was waiting there for me. It read "Notification of payment received". I have been getting a lot of spam, so my first instinct was to delete it. But since it was in my inbox, I opened it. The first thing I saw was, "You've got Cash!" Still confused, I wondered who this person was and WHY were they sending me money. As I read further, I discovered to my surprise, I made my first sale. After 8 months of being on Etsy, I finally got my first sale. I have two shops, MaKayla Creations and MaKayla Bags. The sale was in MaKayla Bags. I'm was so excited; I couldn't sleep. I had been doing so much research, reading, trial and error, trying to see what would work. I edited my descriptions. Nothing. I changed my photos. Nothing. I credit the talented members of my Etsy team for their expertise and wisdom. My team started a thread on our site called Renewing/Relisting/Showcasing. It was very helpful. They talked about the importance of relisting and renewing. I didn't even know I should relist/renew nor that there were certain days/times that are best to renew/relist. Showcasing, I still not quite sure about this, but from the ones that tried it, it wasn't as profitable as renewing/relisting. So I took those tips and started renewing/relisting in both of my shops. Then at one of our team meetings, someone mentioned the benefits of Google Analytics. WHAT? So I did my research and used Google Analytics to see which day/time my views are the highest, in which shop and where they are coming from. So far, so good. Then, someone mentioned a website that would allow you to edit your photos. I have seen quite a few sites and software, but picnik.com is the BOMB!!! I was so excited about how user friendly and FREE it was. My excitement kept me up half the night adjusting my pictures. Hopefully, all of this hard work will reap more sales.

We had a blast at Funky Finds

Funky Finds was this weekend. My girls and I had a great time. I didn't have a booth. Our team was a sponsor and we had a booth where we sold donated goods from our team members benefiting the Tarrant County Food Bank. I volunteered to work that booth. Maybe for the next show, I'll get up the nerve to do my FIRST show. Some of the booths looked really good and I got a lot of ideals. Just need to decide which direction I want to go. Here are some pictures of the Etsy Fort Worth team in actions.

I hope you enjoyed. Share your favorite moments from a craft fair. Thanks.

Wicked Wednesday Week 4 "Black History Month"

First, let me apologize for not posting a Wicked Wednesday last Wednesday. Was having technical difficulties.

February is Black History Month. Americans have recognized black history month since 1926. Black Americans have been part of America since the colony, they didn't get a respectable presence in history until the 20th century. Today, I will take a look at contributions made by blacks that allow us to live a comfortable life.

Garret Morgan invented a 3-way automatic traffic sign which paved the way for the 3-light traffic sign. We have all been in the traffic jam when one of these breaks.

James West research in sound technology led to the development of foil-electret transducers used in 90% of all microphones built today and in most new telephones being manufactured.

Thomas Martin patened the fire extinguisher in 1872. On of these came in handy when I accidentally set my

fence on fire.

Jan Ernst Matzeliger invented the Shoe Lasting Machine, which connected the upper part of the shoe to the sole. Every shoe lover should pay homage Jan.

Joseph Lee invented a bread making machine that mixed the ingredients and kneaded the dough in 1895. A bread machine in the 1800's? Who knew.

L P Ray invented the dust pan in 1897. How many of you remember using an album cover? Or maybe that's a hood thing.

When I was in school, Feburary was the only month we learned about Black History. My hope, wish and goal is that Black History becomes a permanent part of American History, not just mentioned in the shortest month of the year. Thanks for sharing. Leave a comment about your favorite black history memory or invention.

Super Bowl Sunday

I am originally from New Orleans. I can remember sitting on my parents coffee table on Sunday afternoon, with my dad and brothers, rooting for the Saints. Every season ended with disappointment. But not this season. Win or lose, the simple fact that we are in the Super Bowl, is a huge accomplishment in itself. We are already winners. So today, I'm promoting my favorite Saint's items.

First, an invitation to the party. Everyone has to have a superbowl party.

Can't go to the party empty handed? How about some cookies?

Looks too good to eat. Next I need a huge glass to hold my hurricane.

If you don't have a jersey, how about a nice Who Dat t-shirt,

And how about some bling, bling

And after all the festivities are over, a pillow to lay my sleepy or hungover head.

It took over 40 years, but we are so glad it's finally our time. Geaux Saints. "Who Dat Nation" alive and well. Now I'm home sick. Thanks for sharing.

Team Members

Do you ever have those days when you just don't feel like it or you're sick and tired of being sick and tired. Well today was one of those days for me. More like the last couple of days. I'm a member of team Etsy Fort Worth and tonight we had a meeting. I really didn't feel like going. I wanted to get in pjs, slip under my covers, grab the remote and eat a cake with a gallon of ice cream. So I forced myself to go, wanting to turn around with every mile. When I got there, seeing familar faces, I began to feel better. As we discussed each item on Jen's list, my tension melted away. I met new friends and got plenty of ideals for promoting my business and cross promoting team mates. By the end of the meeting, I was so pumped and inspired to create something. So I wrote this blog. I love my team. Go Esty Fort Worth!!!!

Wicked Wednesday Week 3 "Happy Sexy Valentine"

Everyone has their own special way of celebrating Valentine's Day. Here are a few steps to a very sexy valentine.

First, let your imagination wonder on how you would like to look for your special Valentine. Gazing at this print would certanily get you in the mood.

Sexy and seductive. Second, you need a relaxing scent in the bath or bedroom. I'd have candles everywhere, but that's just the kinda girl I am. 

Close your eyes and you can smell the heavenly scent of ?. After you light your candles, how about a long, relaxing, luxurious bath? Bubble bath scent to match the candle, of course.

Bath for one....or two, the choice is up to you. A scarf can be used for more than wrapping around your neck on a cold winter night. In a romantic situation, it can be quite magical. Let your imagaination go. 

Vixen fringe scarf. Enough said. Massage, anyone?

or, if it's your fancy, body powder, with a duster. Use your imagination, AGAIN! 

The oil and powder are edible. Brings a whole new meaning to "taste tester". Just be careful. Don't want to make paste. To finish it all off, how about some sexy lingerie?

WOW! What an ending, beginning or continuation to a great night. If you don't have a Valentine, wrap all these up in a basket and share with someone you want to be your Valentine, step by sexy step.

These are just some of my suggestions. Please take these, add some of your own or I hope this has inspired you to come up with your very own sexy Valentine. Let's make everyday a day of love and "bring sexy back" every night or at least once a week. Thanks for sharing.

To Model or Not to Model

Here is my dilemia. I been doing a lot of reading on the best way to promote my items and shop. When I first wanted to do an online clothing line, I hired a photographer, asked to borrow friend's children and we went to parks and took pictures.

Beautiful, right? Well no sales were produced. So I focused my energy on research to see what I needed to do. I began to look at other sellers shops, check their photos, prices, etc to see where I could improve. I noticed that some had models and some didn't. Then I read on one of the forum that some buyers will assume that the garmet that is pictured is the one that is being sold and they don't want anything that is worn. I don't blame them. I'm not selling the dress pictured. All my items are custom made when ordered. Maybe I should mention that in my description. So I began to look at big online children clothes stores and some had models, but most didn't. So here is my question, well questions....should I use models?

                                

are not?

                            

Will that deter sales if I have models? If I don't use models, should I invest in a mannequin? Decisions, decisions. Just in case you couldn't tell, a professional took the pictures at top. I took the ones below. I know the picture are terrible. Baby steps, people. Baby steps.

I need your help. Please leave your opinion. Thanks for sharing.

  

Wicked Wednesday Week 2 " Garnet is for January"

Garnet is for January. My youngest daughter's birthday is in January. The 1st, as a matter of fact. Don't get excited. She didn't get here until 11:48pm, almost the 2nd, which is a true testiment to her personality. Anywho, I wanted to feature garnet items that she may like. First, let start off with this beautiful dress...

Watch me walk away. What a great name for a dress. That has always been my motto. Now let's frame the face with...

Nice earrings. Then let's accent with a nice bracelet..

Classic style with simple details. Or how about this one....

Simply stated. Need something for the fingers....

Perfect match to the bracelets.  Last but not least, how about a nice scent,

What does this have to do with garnets? Scents by Garnet and Moss. And the best part, these are scents for men. Who doesn't love to cuddle up next to a great smelling man???

Come to think about it, all of these are my favorite things. Sorry Maya. Maybe next year. Happy Birthday anyway. If you have some favorites, please comment and share.