Thursday, December 30, 2010


Wishing you all a safe and happy beginning to the new year!  As we close the door on 2010, take a moment to reflect on the memories, the good ones and the bad ones.  Keep the good ones close to your heart to remind you where you came from and use the lessons learned through the bad ones to take you where you are going.  I am beyond excited about the things that lie ahead in this new year.  For those of you who know me well, you know I am not fond of New Year's Eve as a holiday per se, but New Year's Day is a different matter.  I love the idea of a fresh start, a resetting of the clock if you will.  So, here's to a fresh start in 2011, a chance to wipe the slate clean and to recharge our batteries so we can enter the New Year with a burst of energy and get the ball rolling on our best year yet!

We are, as usual, planning a family-friendly celebration in the neighborhood with good food and good friends.  I've always been told you should spend New Year's Eve with people you want to have in your life in the New Year, so I can't imagine better friends to spend it with!  Whatever you do to celebrate this holiday, please be safe! 

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

2011 - Can't wait!


One of the many perks of being a Thirty-One consultant is all the great FREE stuff we get!  In 2011, the rewards just keep coming!  We embark on a new incentive promotion starting January 1st with the chance to earn FREE trips to Disney, gift cards galore, FREE trip to National Conference, and....a FREE TRIP TO the RIVIERA MAYA in Mexico in the Fall (for me and my husband.)  With 3 kids and a full-time job, a FREE trip to paradise sounds great to me.  And that can be mine, just for doing what I love - sharing all of the amazing Thirty-One products with my friends.  I love helping choose gifts for people that show just how much they are loved - personalized gifts just say "You are special" in a big, big way. 

If you're interested in finding out how you can earn these dream rewards in 2011, go to www.mythirtyone.com/heatherf and click "Join My Team."  $99 really can change your life - it changed mine and I can't wait for all of the great things that are going to happen for my family and myself in 2011!

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Wishing you...

I wanted to take a moment and wish all of my amazing customers, hostesses, team members, and fellow Thirty-One consultants a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!



I sincerely hope that each of you are blessed this holiday and want you to know just how much I appreciate how you have blessed my life and my Thirty-One business.  This year has been an exciting one and I cannot wait to enter 2011 and see what's next!

Here's to a blessed, bountiful, and safe holiday season to all of you!  May you be surrounded by those you love and be full of joy as you remember the real reason we celebrate this holiday and the BEST PRESENT ANY OF US COULD EVER RECEIVE:  the birth of our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ! 

With love,
Heather

Saturday, December 18, 2010

What I Want to Be When I Grow Up

As a child, I longed to be many things...among them: an architect, a race car driver, an interior designer, a Mommy, a writer, a singer, a Wife, a psychologist.  One thing that was a constant need for me was to be a perfectionist - I had to do the best at everything  tried my hand at and if I didn't get a perfect grade or win the contest, I took it pretty hard.  I needed to push myself to be better, and that in and of itself, is not a bad thing.  It kept me motivated and inspired, but it was a constant frustration for me because we all know we can't be 100% all the time and we have to lose every now and then.

I didn't become an architect (yet).  Nor did I take the checkered flag in a Nascar race (yet).  I won't be trying out for American Idol (ever).  I learned I am not capable of leaving my patients' problems at the office, so I chose not to go into psychology.  But, I did reach a couple of my aspirations: I am a Mommy.  And being a Mommy taught me that I don't have to be perfect...I just have to be Mommy, because my boys are going to love me anyway.  Making mistakes every now and then is healthy - they have to learn how to deal with mistakes because they are going to make them too.  And, I also became a Wife.  I married someone who adores my imperfections.  He still puts me on a pedastal despite them.  I am so blessed. 

I'm still young enough that I haven't stopped dreaming about what I want to be when I grow up, and I wanted to share it with you.  I want to be the lady described in Proverbs 31:


A wife of noble character who can find?
   She is worth far more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her
   and lacks nothing of value.
She brings him good, not harm,
   all the days of her life.
She selects wool and flax
   and works with eager hands.
She is like the merchant ships,
   bringing her food from afar.
She gets up while it is still night;
   she provides food for her family
   and portions for her female servants.
She considers a field and buys it;
   out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She sets about her work vigorously;
   her arms are strong for her tasks.
She sees that her trading is profitable,
   and her lamp does not go out at night.
In her hand she holds the distaff
   and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
She opens her arms to the poor
   and extends her hands to the needy.
When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
   for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
She makes coverings for her bed;
   she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
Her husband is respected at the city gate,
   where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
She makes linen garments and sells them,
   and supplies the merchants with sashes.
She is clothed with strength and dignity;
   she can laugh at the days to come.
She speaks with wisdom,
   and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
She watches over the affairs of her household
   and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children arise and call her blessed;
   her husband also, and he praises her:
“Many women do noble things,
   but you surpass them all.”
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
   but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
Honor her for all that her hands have done,
   and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
~ Proverbs 31:10-31

Thursday, December 16, 2010

It's FUNdraising time!

January is the perfect month to host a fundraiser for your organization (preschool, daycare, church youth group, sports team, Scouts, dance school, gymnastics group, cheerleaders, etc).  Our Thermal Totes are all on SALE and monogramming on them is also on SALE, so FUNdraising is super easy!! 

Contact me at 31heather@gmail.com to learn more about how I can help your group raise funds next month!

January Booking Incentive!

Email me now to select your date: 31heather@gmail.com

Monday, December 6, 2010

Countdown to Christmas begins...with a visit to ChristmasTown!!!

Thanks to my Thirty-One income, I was able to take my Mom and the boys to Williamsburg, VA for a long holiday weekend.  This trip REALLY got me in the mood for Christmas and I just had to share some moments from our mini-vacation....

We left out on Friday and I was dreading the almost 5 hour drive.  My husband usually does the driving...in fact, I can't remember driving that far myself since we got married.  The minivan was packed up and the boys were lectured accordingly and strategically spaced out of arms reach from one another. 

My Picnic Thermal Tote was stocked with drinks and snacks and my City Weekender Tote was full of warm clothes - we were ready!

The drive was not bad at all - Virginia is a pretty state in the Fall.  We arrived at the Williamsburg Plantation.  I was a little concerned after reading mixed reviews, but I landed a SWEET deal on the condo, so I figured we'd make the best of it.  It turned out to be a perfect place for us to stay...so much more like a home than a hotel. 
The units are set up like a townhome with an upper and lower level unit.  I wanted a place where we could cook so we didn't have to eat every single meal out.  The first night we were there, we hit up Trader Joe's.  So. Yummy.  We don't have a TJ's nearby at home, so this was a treat.  We cranked up the fireplace, poured a glass of wine and let the kids play.

On Saturday, we visited Colonial Williamsburg.  One of my favorite buildings in the town is Bruton Parish Church and I'm glad it was open so we could go inside.
It's such a beautiful building and there's so much history there.  The boys got to sit where George Washington sat.  We walked around the town and took in the sights for a couple of hours.  I have to admit - there were a lot fewer interactive exhibits than I remember from my last visit as a child.  The boys thought it was "pretty boring" but they did have fun getting in the gallows and eating lunch at Shields Tavern.
Shields Tavern is located on Duke of Gloucester street, down near the Governor's Palace.  We ate in the parlor room.  I had the Bangers and Mash (delish!!).  Monkey lucked out and was served an Adult size burger because "it would take forever to get a child's burger" according to the waitress.  (I'm still pondering the answer to that).  He ate every. single. bite. 

After lunch, we headed back to Williamsburg Plantation and I took Parker shopping at the Williamsburg Premium Outlets, which were right around the corner from where we stayed.  We went out to dinner at Hayashi Sushi & Grill - Parker was craving Japanese.  The service was mediocre at best, but the food nearly made up for it.  My Blackberry almost died a quick death there, though, when the little guys reached over me to duke it out and spilled my Miso soup all. over. my. phone.  Thanks to my Facebook friends' advice and a bag of rice, I was able to dry out the phone and it's as good as it was before. 

On Sunday, it was time for the highlight of our trip - a visit to Busch Gardens Europe - Christmastown!!!  The park opens in the evenings between Thanksgiving and Christmas and it's truly magical.  Now, if this place doesn't get you in the mood for the holidays, I don't know what would.  Busch Gardens is a beautiful park anytime of the year, but especially so during Christmastown.  The entire park is lit up, the smell of real Christmas trees and the music is so welcoming.  We got to see the Sesame Street Christmas show and ride every ride we wanted to with no wait!  We enjoyed dinner at the Festhaus. 

No visit to Christmastown would be complete without stopping by Santa's Workshop and seeing the Big Man in Red!


I can tell that I've gotten less brave with age.  A few years ago, I was skydiving.  Now, I'm chickening out of a roller coaster!  Parker was bound and determined to conquer The Griffon...and conquer it he did...all by himself.
 

I got on...and then I promptly got off (before they could lock me in!)  He rode alone.  I stood at the base and prayed. 

We got to meet Penelope and Phillipe...


and even saw real, live penguins...so cute!!

It was a really beautiful evening and the memories we made will stay with us for a long time.  We'll definitely go back again next year! 

We couldn't go to Williamsburg and not visit the Yankee Candle flagship store.  WOW!  It was a very unique experience.  It's a beautiful store and it smells divine!  Santa was there and the boys made their own candles at the Wax Works station.  I loaded up on tarts to burn during the holidays. 

It was a perfect weekend, except that Daddy had to stay home for work.  We missed him like crazy.  We were all glad to get home to him on Monday and we'll be taking him with us next year for sure!


Saturday, November 20, 2010

Wanna Sneak Peek?

Here's a 'Sneak Peek' at some of the new Thermal Tote products we can look forward to with Thirty-One's Spring line, which will launch on February 1st.  Above, you can see a new print in our ever popular Small Thermal Tote and, on the left, a brand new Market Thermal Tote!  As with our other thermal products, the new Market Thermal Tote is insulated to keep your hot stuff hot and cold stuff cold.  This new product offers a waterproof lining, so you can place loose ice directly in it.  Another benefit is longer straps for over the shoulder carrying!

I have truly fallen in love with the Boho Patchwork Paisley print (pictured here on our Small Thermal Tote on the left) and am thrilled to see it will be sticking around for Spring!  On the right, check out a cute new print for our Large Thermal Tote!

More surprises to come as the countdown to Spring begins!!

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

How many PAYDAYS do you want this month?

As a Thirty-One consultant, YOU decide the play days and the pay days! YOU are the boss!
If you have ever had interest in Thirty-One, owning your own business or creating an additional source of income for your family…NOW is the perfect time to start!! No sales experience is necessary. I never saw myself in direct sales, but these products are so fabulous it is easy to share with others! Women LOVE our products and often contact me for repeat purchases.
Best of all, I have met so many amazing women (hostesses, customers and fellow consultants!).
$99 Starter Kit

Thirty-One home parties are meant to be fun and rewarding for our hostesses, their guests, and the consultant.  Thirty-One's product line has tons of fashionable solutions for busy on-the-go lifestyles.

Perhaps you haven't heard of Thirty-One. Not surprising. I hadn't either. Yet this amazing company has grown 400% in the past year alone! You will enjoy the rewards of a flexible schedule while earning extra income for your family as a Thirty-One consultant. Owning your own Thirty-One business is fun, challenging, rewarding and one of the greatest ways to add income to your family. Imagine that YOU get to decide your paydays! Full time, part-time, stay-at-home moms, and retirees all enjoy being consultants with Thirty-one Gifts.
 
YOU can be the  FIRST consultant in your area!
Groundbreaking opportunities in most states on the west coast, Vermont, North Dakota, & New York.

Questions? Contact me today!
I would love to talk to you about the benefits of being a Thirty One consultant!
You can e-mail me at  31heather@gmail.com
Know someone who would enjoy working for Thirty-One or could benefit from this business opportunity? Receive a $20 gift certificate for referring a qualified consultant to me.  Ask me for details!

As part of my Team, I promise to support you and answer your questions so that you have the best experience possible.

THIRTY-ONE GIFTS features a beautiful selection of gifts and accessories that are stylish, useful and affordable. Best of all they can be personalized with a name, catchy phrase, or initials. From well-designed handbags and organizing totes, to personalized stationery, travel accessories and more! You'll always find something unique and special for your family, friends and yourself! Use my online store to order the products anytime! Live in the Piedmont Triad NC area? Contact me to plan a Girls' Night Out!


Let’s Party!

    Monday, November 1, 2010

    November Specials are here!!!

    I am THRILLED to announce our specials for this month!

    For every $31 you spend this month, you can get a Zipper Pouch for FREE!  (a $12 value).


    Here are 31 uses for zipper pouches:
     
    1.Small electronic games (Leapster, DS, etc.)
    2.Equipment manuals
    3.Receipts for major purchases
    4.Computer software
    5.Coloring book with crayons
    6.Sewing kit
    7.CD player and CD’s
    8.Vacation keepsakes—brochures, stubs, etc.
    9.First aid kit
    10.Scrapbooking stickers, smaller tools, etc.
    11.Money bag
    12.Household tools
    13.Art Supplies
    14.Snacks
    15.Tanning Essentials
    16.Nail Kit
    17.Important medical/legal papers
    18.Misc. cord storage
    19.Car registration and manuals in glove box
    20.Lingerie bag
    21.Coupons/discount card
    22.Barbie clothes, Polly Pockets, etc.
    23.Legos, Matchbox cars, etc.
    24.Picnic Utensils
    25.Medicine
    26.Shampoo, etc. for travel
    27.Swimsuit (It’s waterproof!)
    28.Hair accessories
    29.Make Up
    30.Pencil Pouch
    31.Diapers, wipes, etc.
     
     
     
     
    And, our Hostesses can enjoy:
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
    There's still time to book a home or catalog party for November or December.  Cutoff to get items back in time for Christmas is December 13th, so send me an email to get your party booked and earn some of your holidays gifts for FREE!  Shop from your seat, not from your feet this holiday season!  Kick back with a glass of wine and a group of your best friends and let Thirty-One make your holiday shopping stress-free!

    Why I Love Being a Soccer Mom


    Fall Soccer has officially ended and I can actually laugh when I read the above cartoon!  I feel like I live at the soccer field from late September to early-November.  And I'm ok with that.  You see, I love being a Soccer Mom!  I started this job 5 years ago.  I had an almost Kindergartener who had never stepped foot on a field and a brand new baby.  I was on the last leg of my maternity leave when I spotted an ad for a half-day Soccer camp and thought, "I'd better jump right on that!  It might be the one chance my kid gets to experience anything half-day."  Those full-time work-outside-the-home Momma's know just what I mean!  So, dressed up in my SAHM disguise, I proudly dropped my almost Kindergartener off at the field for 3 hours of fun-filled Soccer Camp, complete with British instructor!  After the 5th day, Lil P told me he was hooked on soccer.  And there began my job as a Soccer Mom. 

    LP, in his very first soccer game (circa 2005)

    5 years later, I know a lot about Soccer.  And, I'm still as excited as I was for that very first game.  It melts my Momma heart that the two little ones have followed in their brother's footsteps and taken up with the sport.  I've even gotten on the field myself and played in a few 'parents vs. kids' games and loved every second of it!

    LP (what Lil P's team calls him) has been blessed with an AMAZING coach for the past 3 years.  Coach D never has to worry about his roster being filled - all the kids who play for him request him every year.  He is very knowledgable about the sport, and gets out there and really, really works on skill development.  But, he is, above all, just a tremendous role model.  He's funny and he just gets the kids.  They want to work hard for him, they want to listen to him, they want him to be proud.  And they all know, even when they don't win, he's still proud - as long as they did their best.  I love seeing the respect those kids have for him, and the parents feel just the same way.

    Noodle and Monkey didn't have such a smooth introduction to Soccer.  Noodle's first season went something like this:
    Daddy coached Noodle's team...Noodle preferred sitting on the bench being a spectator...for the entire season.  Last year, Monkey was old enough to join the ranks and he was chomping at the bit to get a pair of his own cleats!  Given their closeness in age, Noodle and Monkey were able to play on the same team.  WHAT A HUGE MISTAKE!  They were 100% focused on each other and 0% focused on the game.  They wrestled all the way down the field, never once looking at the ball.  All season long, all the spectators, with the exception of two, laughed hysterically at each and every game.  The two who didn't find the antics so funny would be my husband and I.  This year, I practically prayed they wouldn't want to play - I didn't think I could possibly endure Season 2 of Beavis and Butthead Play Soccer.  Alas, they voted to play.  And, I'm glad they did.  No whining, no crying, no wrestling, no rolling around, no walking off the field whenever they felt like it.  They played...and they played hard!  Noodle scored his very first goal!!  Monkey came very close!!  I was so proud of how far they had come in one short year. 

    I love being a Soccer Mom because I get to watch my kids find themselves on the field, to come under the tutelege of some amazing coaches, and learn what it feels like to win and to lose.  I love seeing them learn how to work as a team and to leverage their own strengths with the strengths of others.  My family has forged many friendships on the sidelines of the soccer field and I look forward to seeing those same faces each year at the first practice of the season.  This past Saturday morning, when I woke up and remembered I didn't have to figure out how to be on two fields at the same time, I realized...I am sad to see Fall Soccer Season go.  It went too quickly and it's going to be a long, cold Winter of basketball before we get to hit the field again in Spring. 

    Thursday, October 14, 2010

    To borrow from John Lennon..."I Get By With a Little Help From My Friends"

    How often do you sit back and reflect on your friendships?  Probably not often enough, if you're anything like me.  Sometimes a little "friendship-Spring Cleaning" is in order and most always, it's worth stepping back and counting your blessings.  I've been doing a lot of thinking about my own friendships over the past few months and have tried to be a better friend, the kind of friend I would like to have.  People say you can tell a lot by looking at someone's friends.  I believe that. 

    My best friend from college is visiting this week from Florida, and I'm thankful to have her close, if just for a few days.  It makes my load feel lighter, just knowing she is near.  Our friendship has seen us through so much over the years and even though there are several states between us, our bond is as strong as when she lived right down the hall.  She's the kind of friend who can complete my sentences, who knows what I am thinking before I say it.  I'm lucky to know her and even luckier to call her my friend.  She is the most real person I have ever known and she's as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside.  She's my Jenny! 

    Then
    
    Now

    Shelby, "I love ya more than my luggage" - Clairee
    Steel Magnolias
     This week has been a tough one for me personally and I've been reminded of the friends I have.  I'm so thankful for all of them.  A wise friend gave me some advice related to friendship recently.  She told me that sometimes people come into our lives for a specific purpose and, once that need has been fulfilled, it's ok for them to no longer be in our lives in the same way.  Other times, we will have friends who come and stay a part of our lives forever.  The lesson I took away from that advice?  It's perfectly normal and to be expected that some friendships will outlast others.  And, there's nothing wrong with having a really strong friendship with someone and then growing apart.  I'm grateful for my friend Melissa who gave me that advice - it lifted a weight that I've been carrying around for some time now. 

    Remember, it's about QUALITY, not QUANTITY.  We live in the age of Facebook - look around at how many people measure their worth by how many Facebook friends they have.  It's important to remember that just because someone is a 'Facebook friend,' it's not the same as being a real friend.  I'm trying to teach my boys this - popularity is a phase so be sure you build quality friendships - they're what lasts. 

    Here are a couple of my favorite friendship quotes:

    "Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art... It has no survival value; rather is one of those things that give value to survival."
    - C. S. Lewis


    "The best mirror is an old friend."
    - George Herbert


    So, in the spirit of Thirty-One, I want to remind you to take time to CELEBRATE, ENCOURAGE, and REWARD those special friends in your life!  There's no time like the present to say..."Thank you for being my friend."

    Friday, October 1, 2010

    More than the leaves are changing this month!!

    There are so many things to be excited about this month!  I have to admit, I've been eagerly anticipating today, the first day of October and let me show you why...

    Thirty-One has some GREAT things launching today...

    I am SUPER excited about our Lil' Expressions line, which is a nostalgic nod to a product we offered when Thirty-One was in its infancy called Painted Kids. 


    You can select one to six 'look-alike' kids to be printed on a canvas tote or printed on a notepad or note cards.  You can choose to include each child's name individually or use a single phrase instead, like "Mrs. Smith's Class" or "Grandma's Cuties" or "The Jones Family." 

    I also adore the grey bear!  He comes with a Super Soft Blanket that tucks inside of him.  Check out both of these in our NEW Holiday Gift Guide that is now available.  Click here to view.


    Some of my personal favorites:

    LOVE this scarf and hat set!! 
    The material is so soft and cozy, perfect for those cold days I know are right around the corner. 
    Those who know me well know I am addicted to the Large Utility Tote.  I have several and this holiday print was the perfect addition to my collection.  I am so looking forward to carrying our gifts from one celebration to the next this holiday season!!  I always give Super Soft Blankets from Thirty-One as gifts to my loved ones.  This year, they're even better because you can now get a coordinating Blanket Band with a gift tag.  Such a cute little accessory that's also functional!!  My kids apparently don't know how to fold a blanket and put it away in the linen closet, so I am sure we will use the Blanket Band to keep ours rolled up neatly.  The Fitted Ruffle Skirt on the Brown Skirt Purse is so unique and fun!! 

    Be sure to get your party on my calendar before it's too late - dates are filling quickly!! Email me to schedule your catalog or home party!

    Monday, September 27, 2010

    Organizing Utility Totes are on SALE for only $5!!!

    That's right!  With every $31 you spend in October, you can purchase an Organizing Utility Tote for only $5.00!!  This bag has about a million different uses and for only $5, you can purchase one for everyone on your gift list and get a head start on your holiday shopping!!! 


    The tote pictured here is in Black Tailored Stripe with Green Handles, but you can also choose from St. Andrew's Tartan, Newport Bloom, Paparazzi Dot, Black Tailored Stripe w/Pink Handles, Boho Patchwork Paisley, solid Black, or solid Brown.  Click here for more details.

    These totes make perfect diaper bags, carry-all's for teachers, cleaning product holders, and are also great for tailgating and picnicking!

    Personalize by choosing your favorite thread color and font style to let the special people in your life know how much you care! 

    You can order at this sale price beginning Friday, October 1st by visiting my website.  The item # is 3105.  Remember, for every $31 you spend, you can purchase an Organizing Utility Tote at the sale price!

    Friday, September 24, 2010

    Soccer, Pumpkins, and....CONSIGNMENT SALES!!!

    Yesterday marked the first official day of the Fall season.  Some of you are welcoming it with open arms.  Me? I'm pretty much in mourning.  I love warm weather (80 degrees + is just fine year-round by me), love the blooming flowers and green grass, love being outside without freezing my hinder off or slipping down my stairs...I could go on...but I won't because I am trying to focus on the things I actually do look forward to with the coming of Fall. 

    SOCCER!  Lil P (or LP as he is called by Coach) is playing U-13 this year.  He started as a Kindergartner and just simply fell in love with the sport.  Here he is going for a kick at his very first game ever...


    When he's not on the field, he's in the family room playing FIFA World Cup on the Wii.  I love watching him.  He's usually the shortest kid on the team, but that's not an issue in this sport.  And trust me, the power in this kid's foot will blow. you. away.  Competitive?  To a fault, but what can I say?  He's his Momma's kid!  I've watched him start out timid and grow his confidence and skills to a point where his coach pitted the entire team against just him last night in practice...he was the sole defender and no one got by him...he was everywhere!  He's got raw skill but he's found his way under the guidance of an amazing coach that we've been blessed to have 3 years running.  We've met some incredibly great people through soccer and Coach D is one of them!

    Soccer has become a part of who he is.  It's also a terrific family sport.  All 3 boys are playing now, because the little guys are determined to be just like Big Brother.  Our family loves to be at the field together, cheering each other on and soccer families are fun to hang out with!!  Noodle and Monkey are on the same team again this year - God Bless their coach's heart.  He's an attorney so they might just have met their match this year!  The first practice was last night.  It was a marked improvement over last year in that they went out on the field with the team and participated instead of wrestling each other on the sidelines.  Monkey stripped right out of his cleats, shinguards and socks and rejoined the team barefoot about 10 minutes before practice was over.  Should be an interesting season!

    PUMPKINS!  Something else I don't dread about Fall is seeing all the pumpkins!  I love 'em!  And I really hope we can get the insanely talented Pumpkin Carving Master Guy to come and present again for the Cub Scouts this year because I have never seen so many awesome pumpkins!!


    And perhaps the thing I like best about Fall is... CONSIGNMENT SALES!!!
    Please, please tell me you have experienced at least one in your lifetime!  If you haven't, ya'll...you really must!  Shopping is fun, but shopping at a children's consignment sale is like a sport!  There are some really great ones in our area and the fun is about to begin.  I've got piles all. over. my. house. of stuff to be tagged for sale...it's a tedious process, sure, but I enjoy locking myself in a room with a huge bin of old clothes from the kids and remembering when they were little enough to wear that teeny tiny onesie.  For those who don't have a clue what I'm talking about, google "children's consignment sales."  Typically a church or organization will allow the public to sell new and gently used children's clothing and equipment - they keep a % of the profit and the seller gets a %.  It's a great way to give to a good cause and get rid of items your children have grown out of.  You can get everything from strollers to cribs to clothes to toys/games to outdoor play equipment. 

    Like I said, it is like a sport.  People show up to get in time WAY early and some come armed with assistants so they can cover multiple sections and not miss getting first dibs.  After awhile, you learn the strategies.  My #1 Tip: Always volunteer to work the sale(s) you want to shop at.  You typically get a higher % of your profit when you volunteer, and, most importantly, volunteers are allowed to shop the pre-sale.  That's when the very best stuff gets gone, so you gotta be there. 

    My #1 Must-Have for consignment sale shoppers: 
    a Thirty-One Large Utility Tote! 


    It's perfect for the sales - roomy and comfortable to carry and stylish.  Now that I've emptied all of our beach stuff out, mine is ready to hit the sales! 

    So, here's to Fall!  Let's hope I can be this optimistic on the first day of Winter!!

    Tuesday, September 21, 2010

    Welcome to my new blog!!!

    I have started this new blog to share all the exciting things that are happening with Thirty-One, but also to be a place where I can share stories about my life.  My family is so intertwined with my Thirty-One business, it would be tremendously difficult for me to separate the two and just talk business here, so ya'll bear with me...I'm planning to shower you with random peeks inside my world, which can get a little crazy sometimes...but it's worth the ride.  So, I hope you will check in often and enjoy yourself!



    So, here's a little intro:
    My name is Heather F.  I'm Wife to my 6th grade sweetheart and Mommy/Short-Order Cook/Taxi Driver/Healer of Boo-Boo's  to one 'Lil P', one 'Noodle', and one 'Monkey', two dogs, one guinea pig, and two fish.  Actually the guinea pig and fish technically belong to my sons, but who are we kidding here?  I feed 'em, so they think of me as Mom too!  :) 

    
    Lil P rarely lets me catch a smile on camera
    
    Noodle, posing in his 'Yea, I'm going to Kindergarten' pose

    Monkey, doing what he does best...terrorizing his brothers!

    So there you have it, my gang of wild animals has been introduced!  It's funny, growing up I said I wanted 5 boys...God proved to me He knows best and stopped me at 3!

    Summer is almost gone...

    There are only 9 days left to snag a Demi Purse for 50% off!  What a super deal!  Our new Demi Purse is such a big hit, with all ages.  And don't forget a coordinating scarf to add a little 'sassy' to your bag!!  The fabric shown in this photo is Floral Fanfare and the Demi Purse is also available in Peacock Paisley, Onyx Medallion, Black Pocket Full of Posies and Boho Patchwork Paisley.