Stop, Breath, snack bags...my mantra this month

The fall is quickly approaching and this year we are getting ready for the start of the school year too. My big kid is going off to half day prekindergarten, I don't think I could handle more yet and I am set to take another business class via one of the local junior colleges.
I am looking forward to my kiddos school year, with many many upcoming events to help transition us into the school community. What I haven't done yet is made his own snackmate or snack bags. I usually have the boys share the bags that are either imperfect or prototypes. But, that just won't do for the start of the school year.
His backpack is done and is in our current ad, but that is about all.
I have four weeks and some others have less than tow to get ready.
I encourage everybody wanting a snack bag, snackmate, snack sack or backpack to order it as soon as possible to get it in time for the new school year. I will be working everyday on snack items.
The happy bag version one is gone... if you want one I can make you one. Version two is even better with a matching interior lining.

Bye Happy Bag

I gave the happy bag away- for what and who it was intended for. I am sad that it is gone but am excited that it came out so good. This time I am going to add a lining and make the handles longer for on on the shoulder wear.

I set out to buy some more fabric for a special order at a local shop. The shop was out of the fabric, and I couldn't locate any of the other items that I needed. Err- I hate it! I went back to one of my favorite supplies shop and ordered what I needed. Trying to locate what I need locally is sometimes impossible. I am trying to reduce my carbon footprint.

Two more days of class and one more test left for my business class. Countdown to more full days of sewing...3.

Getting Carried Away

I got lost in a task today. I set out to make two items as birthday gifts for a little boy. I never got around to the second project. The first project though did get finished. And I am so proud of the way it came out. I love it! I set out to make a gift bag from some scrap fabric. Then this bag can be reused as a grocery bag or re-gift bag etc. I was so proud when it was done- that I stepped back and already didn't want to give it away. The second thought was that I could dress this bag up a little, like with a smile. A happy bag flashed threw my head, with thoughts of other things I could use to make the words and long story short...BAM! A new idea was born and I still don't want to give it away as a gift. An overwhelming desire to show my mommy what I made has come over me.

Fabric

As you know I use mostly remnant fabrics and organic fabrics for my creations. In my stock I have a few panels of ballerina fabric that were curtains for a little girls room. The background is pink and the image is purple and pink ballet slippers and purple music.
As usual, I did not know what to do with this exact fabric so I left it until inspiration struck. I have decided to take make them into snack mates, snack pouches and a little backpack. There must be a few little girls, and maybe boys, out there who would like to take their dance shoes to school in ballet think bag.
I am planning on using a pink nylon for the interior of the snack mate and pouch, if I can find it with white velcro that wraps the interior for the pouch. I am off in search of a cute cording or something for the ballet bag straps, although I could make cording with the same fabric..hmm. I think I will try it an see how it comes out.
I have big plans but for know they are still just plans. My paper is due, three more assignments and an exam are still in my future. I am looking at next week as a beginning to these projects along with three specialty orders and creating more Daisy snack pouches to raise money for the Trace Elementary Fire Fund.
I do not plan on taking a summer course ever again...I am too old, too busy and and too grumpy for summer school work.

A New Magazine on style and its green!!!!

I am loving this new online eco magazine!
Pure Green Living Magazine

Daisy Snack Pouch for a cause

I said I wanted to do something for the Trace Elementary School teachers who lost all of their things in a fire a few weeks ago. Now, with my class ending I can focus on sewing for a cause. I have decided to make these snack pouches made from a Daisy pattern and the net proceeds will go to their fire fund.
Check it out and help them out!
Daisy Snack Pouch for a cause

Ads gone wrong

Grr! A new ad is coming out in Bay Area Parent next month but I just doesn't look right to me. I am getting frustrated because I am not correctly expressing what I want in the ad. Eek!

Tired

On and on: Tired from trying to take a class everyday and still be a good mommy. I don't know how this is easy for some mommies. I now a summer class was a bad idea now, but I am more than half way through. Just the 10 page research paper looming. I have learned things to help my business look and act like a bigger, small business. But, I am too tired to get them effectively into place. Forget about actually working on projects for the business. I cannot wait for August 1st when this class will be over and I can put some of my learning into action.

On the lighter side my next ad is coming out, not exactly what I had intended for it to be but right now that is all the energy I can extend.

On the block for sewing: snack mate and snack bags in a pink ballerina pattern and a silver background space theme. Plus, 2 gorgeous bags-purses really (at least in my mind) using both laminate and conveniently cotton material. I generally make new items with left over pieces and cheap fabrics but this is a special case. I can't wait to begin!!!

On the discovery: I need more than 2 sets of snack mates and snack bags in my household. I set for each child and a back up set for when I accidently leave them in the swim bag with yesterdays lunch leftover;( I need to sell them as a set and individually.

On the community info: Two things have happenend recently that I feel I need to react to and aid in some way. 1- a horrible fire that burnt down a local schools library, and 1-2 grade classrooms. I can't imagine begin told my classroom is gone and all of my materials with it in such a bad economy. I want to have some sort of fundraiser for the lost classrooms/library. Trace elementary is located in downtonw San Jose in the San Jose Unified School District. 2- a tragic accident that ended the life of a 4 year old boy and injured his father. I have afour year old, I often drive that part of the highway, I just can't imagine. They were doing nothing wrong, when their broken truck (on the shoulder of the highway) was hit by a drunk driver in the early evening, in daylight. My heart goes out to his family and want to do something to help them - not ease thier emotional pain, I know I cannot do that, but maybe my store can help raise awareness or funds for them. I cry just thinking of their agony. This accident occured on 101 S. near Bailey in San Jose. Usually, a pretty calm part of the freeway.

Melissa and Doug Closeout on www.lizzysbusybaby.com

We are closing out of our Melissa and Doug toys and products. Even though I like their products I no longer desire to sell them. I want to try harder to get more toys in that are domestically made and enjoy working with a small business. So now through July 24th our puzzles, stamps, and grasping toys are $6.99 each and our deluxe stamps are $8.99 a set and the rest of our toys are $13. We have a limited supply and when they are gone that is it. After July 24th the rest of our M&D items will be taken off of our site and sold.

Survived!

I survived my first week of business class. Thank goodness it is online or I would never get the opportunity right now to try it.
I have learned that 1 class a semester is all I can handle and that summer classes may not be the right idea.
I was able to get some work done thanks to a friend, Shout out to Philly! She let me borrow her sewing machine while mine was in the shop. I am sad to see her wonderful machine go but, mine looks so sad sitting on the floor waiting for its turn to sew again. Luckily, I have one job and a few projects to start.
I got in some work making this month a lot better than the last few but still nothing to write home about. but, having work to do makes me feel useful, like when I was teaching. I know my little ones need me but there is something completely different about working on a project or order that makes me feel like I am contributing to my family as well as the daily care. In actuality I am not contributing to the family but throwing it back to my business but I ignore that mostly ignore that part.
I am hoping to have another good month- even better then June. I am stating it off with a clearance sale.
I have decided to stop using one of my vendors. So, I am liquidating their items from my store. I will begin advertising it tomorrow. I don't feel that they are an honest company when it comes down to selling their products to small businesses. I refuse to be forced into debt so they can make a few bucks. Said company likes to ship and charge me for extra items I do not want, do not sell do to age appropriateness of my store, or just don't have room for. I am not a dump! They even sent me stuff this last order I specifically said no to. I called in for 2 items, no more and they sent me 6- a variety of things I didn't want. They have even done this with written order forms.
Last time they did this and every time I have ordered from them they say it will take months to be able to ship it back. What?! So I am selling them, at a large discount. I want them gone- I am discontinuing them in my store. From there I will begin purchasing items to feel the void from other suppliers. Plus, in October I will be heading back to the ABC Kids Expo in Las Vegas and hopefully will find some vendors willing to do business with a me and not try to take advantage, plus my other eco friendly rules- above all.
I think that should start off July with a bang! That and what the neighbor just shot off- yikes! Good-bye June hello July 1st.

Etsy Showcase day ,new items, good days

WooHoo! Today is our childrens showcase on etsy.
I am so excited!!!!
There are items on there that are not currently on our regular business site. For example our tshirt bags, fabric covered picture frame and cherry tote bag. I had so much fun making all of these items. I have so many more frames and bags to make - all the ideas are floating around in my mind and making it quite difficult to focus on the kids and homework.


I am optimistic about our store being promoted today.
I have already lined up a second showcase day for our bags and pouches.
Why etsy you might ask? Because, I am addicted to it! I love it!


www.etsy.com/shop/lizzysbusybaby

The kitchens in our neighborhood lack space. So when we moved in- thinking we weren't going to be here long we add an 'island,' really it is a workbench. And we have been here a long time! I am on the march to make the rear a play center for the kids. 1 chalkboard side and 1 magnetic side. This is the chalkboard side so far. I need to frame each side and put some sort of bottom barrier/chalk and magnet holder on the bottom. So far I think the little one really enjoys the new works of the 'island.'

The idea to do something to he back came from my mom who has been bugging me to make it look for attractive, especially since we enjoy entertaining. At a friends house, you might now her as Olive and Love she takes design and passion to a new level and actually does what she is inspired to do. In her daughters room she has a magnetic wall up. I think she got it from Ikea, but the point is it makes a fun little learning center. I get ideas from everywhere, and that was my source of inspiration.

My kids are always hovering while I'm in the kitchen. They either go off after a minute and play in the backyard, where I can still hear and see them or they stay under my feet and annoy me. Currently they have an activity center on the refrigerator door. Obviously, that doesn't work well while cooking/preparing.

Stage 1 is finished and her are some photos.
The boys helping me paint with the acrylic 'chalkboard' paint (Made by the same company that makes Mod Podge).


The finished chalkboard.

Tot Tote

I may make the Naturally: Diaper Disaster Kit for little ones but no counterpart for toddlers. And age I really should have something for. This is a time when mommies are more willing to leave the diaper bag behind but still want to keep necessities handy. I wasn't looking in that direction, even when I came up the go-go kit. The go-go kit is just a shrunken version for your purse- a mini diaper bag if you will.
Recently, a friend and reoccurring customers asked me to customize a Naturally kit for her car. Her child is turning 3. No problem!


The tot tote includes an organic toddler tshirt, eco pull on diapers, eco wipes, biodegradable disposable toddler toilet seat covers, biodegradable diaper disposal bags, Boogie Wipes, Clean Well alcohol free hand sanitizer spray, biodegradable coloring placemats, 2 crayons, spf 30 sunscreen, lotion, latex-free bandages and alcohol wipes (for cleaning wounds). This kit has it all.

As usual I am always working on the packaging. But, for now this is where we are. The best part of the Naturally: Tot Tote is the price. $32.95 Better price point, better age range, and I think a great gift for families with a toddler and baby, or preschooler and toddler.

Summer plans

LBBP has a few summer plans of its own. I really wish I had enrolled the boys in some activity in which they would be busy for a few hours every other day without me, in a safe and inexpensive environment. But, I don't think that exists for little ones.

The big push this week is the launch of a new advertising campaign on Bay Area Parent Online Parenting Expo. Although I am not sure if they are going to get many onlookers however, the ad runs for 6 months and I need all I can get. I cannot miss getting in on their success. It is a risk I just have to chance.

June 22nd we have our showcase on Etsy. I am trying to get as many items in my shop as possible. Which means new items have to be thought through, mocked up then made for sale. Yikes! This day is quickly approaching.

1 Day before then my Introduction to Business class begins. After reading the course syllables I think I may have taken this class as an undergrad, but I am sure a refresher wouldn't hurt.

July, I will be hosting a summer sale to try and rid myself of a company I know longer want to work with or purchase from. Let's just say big business shouldn't practice staying profitable by taking advantage of those of use who are trying to keep our eyes above water.

The following weeks will consist of lots of reading and homework, working on other ads and sewing.

I need to make myself an weekly chart of items to get done. Rarely does having 1 thing to do actually mean doing 1 thing. There is usually the planning, the drafting, the execution, the advertising, the money management and the TIME!

Maybe I can train the kids to be my assistants.

Summer is busy, and feels even busier when I think about the beach calling my name just and when I hear the family playing in the slip and slide. But, hopefully the outcome will be worth it.

Our shipping policy has changed

I changed LBBP shipping for everyone. Orders of $25 + will get free shipping. LBBP will choose whether is goes out via USPS, Priority USPS or Federal Express Local San Jose, Ca residents can have a special local drop off when choosen in the delivery option. $4.50 and we drop off your order to your door in a free tote bag(made from scrap fabrics or newspaper).
Lastly, we are reintroducing our Playdate/Products pickup. Bring you little ones and stay and play or just pick up your order and go it's up to you. A fun way to get your items without paying for shipping.
our first Playdate/Product pickup will be this Sunday, May 30, 2010 from 10-10:30am at Santana Row, at the Park near Starbucks. You get your items in a free tote plus, if you are interested there is their Farmer's Market starting at 11am. A great way to start out your Sunday.

California Baby article- yes we sell that!

Your child's sunscreen

Boys room redo

The boys are growing up so quickly it is hard to keep up! Lately my oldest has been into space. Of course what my big one likes my little one follows suit. In this case, since my boys share a room, it is convenient. So, I decided to change their more 'babyish' room into a space & space robot room. My husband was a little lee than thrilled with my idea. All he can think of is the money behind redecorating a room. This left me with some figuring out that needed to be done- I need to redecorate their room in a space/space robot in a inexpensive way, that in interesting for a toddler and preschooler, without painting the walls (as per my lease). Yikes!
I have purchased a piece of art and new area rug from Target for less than $25 each. No my husband was not happy with that- he really didn't want me to spend ANY money.
We also found a poster at the Children's Museum- $19 wasn't cheap but I couldn't get a better price on posters.com so I went with it. I still hangs unframed, but it is laminated.
I made a robot out of wine corks and scrapbook paper that was a hit and cost roughly 55cents!
I ordered robot pillow fabric- had them printed on organic fabric and I stuffed them with organic cotton filling. I made the two largest and still need to make the 2 smaller. Luckily for me the artist is allowing me to sew, stuff and sell the robot pillows on my site. *I am super excited about this! The only preschool items I will have on my site will be themed from my boys room. How can my husband complain about that- it's fun!

I found 4 pieces of scrapbook paper that I am using as art for their wall- I hung them but they need more. They are frameless now- so I think I will back them on cork board and glue on shoe laces or ribbon around the edges to create a frame.
I had a set of mini corkboard- one I transformed into a mini memory board with a mini space invaders fabric I had printed on organic cotton fabric. *Another one for the store!

My friend is making a custom robot nightlight for the room. Her shop is located @ http://www.etsy.com/shop/ksleepy. She fuses these glass nightlights and they are so neat! *Another one for the shop!

This room is going to be spacetacular when it is finished! That, though will take a little but more time. I will keep you updated.

Men's Health Article on "15Ways to Change the World"

Men's Health had an article in April that gave way to an interesting quote. The quote led me to look up the orginal article "15 Ways to Change the World" which could be found on www.MensHealth.com/organicbook. That was a gold mine! I found some pretty interesting stuff from a book titled: "Organic Manifesto" by Maria Rodale. 2 of my favorites and some of the more interesting and maybe surprising pieces of information are:

"Nearly 100 different pesticides are thought to disrupt your body's hormonal balance, which could reduce fertility...And even trace amounts in food may be enough to damage sperm."


And

"Allergies, asthma, autism, ADHD, diabetes, and childhood leukemia have all been linked to exposure to chemicals. And that includes the fertilizers and pesticides you use on your lawn."

These both make me want to read and not read the book. If you have read it let me know what you think about the book, the article or what I have just posted.

Glam your Glass Review- vote to win!

Review "Glam Your Glass" household cleanser by babygirl products. Vote for your favorite review and the winner will receive a full bottle of "Glam your Glass" and 2 votes will be chosen at random to receive a sample of "Glam your Glass."
*If you choose to vote and purchase any babygirl product you will receive free babygirl handsoap- just let me know that you voted.

Reviewer #2 for Glam your Glass household cleaner

Reviewer #1 for Glam your Glass household cleaner

Kelly Todd Glam Your Glass Review: I was fortunate enough to receive the sample of "Glam Your Glass" this past week to test out. Remember, that these are mase of all natural ingredients so don't be thrown off by the slight smell of vinegar. **Please read the directions and description before using.** I was so excited to try th...e product that I sprayed it on my bathroom mirror to find that it left a hazy residue. This is actually a good thing. As I gave it a minute or two and wiped it with a clean cloth, my mirror has never looked so clean and streak free. It is well worth the try especially for those with multiple mirrors and windows throughout your house! :)

Advertising for broke

I advertised- I didn't think I was getting much from it- at least not from my magazine ads. I stopped advertising. I stopped being busy. Hmmph! I going to call them one a direct link!
Today I met with Sharon from Bay Area Parent to get ads going again. Now I am slated for online ads for 6 months, 2 ads in their biannual baby special issues and 1 regular issue.
This is where the double edged soared comes into play- the cost of the ads will wipe out sales cost for awhile. The cost of business! Maybe my business classes will teach me that this is normal and I shouldn't feel bad- like I do. Grrr!
On the lighter side, it will be nice to see my ads up and going around again and seeing Sharon is always nice.
I just have a few more parents magazines to contact.
Here's hoping in ads!

New business, new rules

Now that I have hit the 1 year mark with Lizzy's Busy Baby Products I still have little more knowledge on how to get my business from small to successfully medium. I want to be able to conduct my business and spend time with my children, eventually having other people work for my business too. Really my business is tiny and I need more experience to make it more than what it is.
So, I have decided to take some business and digital media classes at one of our local junior colleges. Hopefully, I will come away from the classes and have more knowledge about what needs to be done to have positive growth. I also hope that I finish these classes and like business enough to pursue it when the boys are in school full time. But, I have years before that.
I am really doing 3 things with these classes: A)Getting educated B)Moving my business forward C)Applying my time to something I like for me and not directly for my kids or family
Now, I just have to take the classes. 1 during the summer that is online (thank goodness for bedtime) and multiple classes during the fall which are online and a few that are Saturday sessions.
I hope I am not getting in over my head! It's been awhile and a few kids since my degree and credential. Man I feel old now, Yikes! Am I really ready to move forward like this?

New product posts

Yikes!!!!
It took me what 1hour go successfully load pictures and text to my site for literally 2 items and their offshoot items. My bum is so sore from sitting on this hard chair!
In the meantime my husband is trying to get work done and the kids are all over the place. There are toys in every nook and crevice of this place. Plus, 1 bathroom accident which led to a shower for my little guy, 1 diaper change for my littler guy and a million times of stopping and reminding the kids what to or not to do.
My husband is not to happy with my timing since he has to work from home today and rather I don't take this, or any other, opportunity to "work" as I'm sure he would call it. Although, I also believed this is how he felt when I was an elementary school teacher too!
Alas, I am done uploading and announced 1 new item so here it is for you to see. Later, today another announcement-about a product!

"babygirl" cleaning products review challenge.

I am looking for 3 volunteers to test out and review "babygirl glam your glass" cleaner. Each person will be given a 4 oz. in exchange for a video or written review posted within 4 days to our pages. The "best review" (most cleaver and direct)will be chosen by the number of votes. If anyone who votes for you also buy...s a "babygirl product" then you both receive free "heart your hands" hand soap by "babygirl."

New Product Line up

Today we have 'babygirl' cleaning products that are made in Florida, are organic and work fabulously! Yes, I use them in my own home. They are replacing my Method cleansers. Method is wonderful yes, but babygirl is all natural and simple products- not mostly natural.
Give them a try! I will be looking for a few testers to use and review - user reviews will be going up on this blog, facebook and twitter. The more people you enlist to this site the more people will see your reviews. Always a plus, right! In days I will be putting up more information on how to register to review some of our new 'babygirl' products.

Go Pouch

I had a custom pouch to make for M. She picked the fabric (from swatches of my supply), elastic and size. It was so much fun to create! I love making custom orders!!!! I added a reclaimed button and it was perfect. But, of course why make 1 when I can make 2. and so I did. Same size, same fabric, used elastic for the closure of both the only difference was a red strip that wraps around one and the buttons are not the same. I was so proud of the second one I made, I just had to show it to M. She saw it, she touched it, she held it, she bought it!
It will be easy to add a similar red stripe to the original pouch she ordered. I will probably change the button too (my new obsession). Definitely made my day to a customer happy with what she ordered and the extra one I made. Thanks M!

Paper or plastic- neither please!

Since our county and especially our city is trying to rid itself of paper and plastic single use bags I have decided to also ditch them at LBBP. I use paper bags- not plastic but now that they are really going to push this through I need to do my part. So if you have your item(s) shipped or pick it up I will not be using paper or plastic. I am want to make simple eco felt or left over cotton fabric bags stamped with my logo. Just trying find someone to make my logo in stamp formation. But, I've been through this before to no avail so I might just have to settle for my business name instead.

Hard to believe

It is something that I have thought about now and then. I tried to get a hold of in the fall but that wasn't going to happen. Finally, it is coming true! My store is getting ...cloth diapers! I know, an eco baby store without cloth diapers- right? But, since we are all eco din our own way mine happened to be with diapers that naturally biodegrade in a quicker fashion, made from natural products not derivatives (Nature Babycare). Of course, since everyone is green in their own way some people like having a cloth diaper. So, I needed to make a move. I had spoken with a company from Washington back in the fall at the ABC expo. They recently contacted me as a follow up. For there we worked on a deal to have the cloth diapers sold at my store. I am very excited! 2 forms of diapers to offer. Makes me happy.

I am also expanding my site to include a mommy section in May. The mommy section will have our pouches, which are becoming popular. I think women like the idea of being able to get their pouches custom made (fabric design choice and how it seals) and still be affordable. They are fun to make and leave me with lots of room for creativity. Since mommies also do the heavy lifting, I have found, via my husband, a wonderful company that makes natural cleaning products. I heart their products!
They are fantastic! No icky smell, no harsh chemicals and they actually work. Made by a mommy who knows and cares about our future and our kids future.

It's time I started introducing a few new products, a new website layout and a catalog of goods. I am so happy to be able to keep moving in a forward motion. May should be packed with these new items/layout and a few other surprises.

Sell sheets are in!!!

I am so excited my sell sheets are in for our newly designed Naturally: Diaper Disaster Kits!! Hehehehe! They look so professional- thanks to kewingcreative- but I guess they are professional. It is a real product that I am really trying to sell. Now what?
Who do I send these to (I haven't made a list)?
In an envelope or as a mailer?
Nervous even though the store owners can't see me.
I have postcards too- made at a different time- to inundate them even more.
I need to put together a plan ASAP and then execute it.
65 sell sheets (wholesale flyers)- that means 60 shops in the US. Trying to stay on the west coast with some outliers in my more popular selling states.
That is the beginning of a plan right- make sell sheets, target area for sell sheets, mail, send follow up postcard and email. Right, right, right.
End with an ad in local baby magazines for the product.
Beautiful, that my plan.
Now, get a list, get eco envelope and get going!

Eco commentary

Who decides what your level of your eco activism is in your home and community? There is always going to be someone who is more green, more vigilant, more vocal. That is great- they lead the movement and help teach us new and exciting ways to slowly and permanently incorporate changes into our lives. They are the people that recycle and rehab old objects into useful new pieces. Thank you Ed Bagely Jr. and Larry Hagman for sharing with us, along with countless others.
That said, the person/people who determine your level of eco participation is you and yours. Making grandiose changes with principles that are new to you will doubtfully make an everlasting impression on your home. Making small changes create a large impact. Being eco friendly is not "Keeping up with the Jones'" but we all need to do something.
What our house does?
My home has some negatives that keep us from being as eco-friendly as I want. Namely, it's a rental. But, that being said we do have some perks. Here in the Bay Area we have a recycling program in place so my busy boys are growing up with the concept. The first memories of recycling in my community come from the 4th grade. It's been awhile-and again something we are lucky to have. Additionally, we compost- due to a community program we learned how to compost and have the area to do so in our side yard. My husband loves to garden so we plant one every spring. This is something I am proud to share with our children- even though I prefer to pick the veggies and nothing else-it is a family piece of our household.
Then the other changes- solar powered security light, replacing bulbs with CFL's, trying to replace batteries with rechargeable ones, turning off lights and televisions when not in use, unplugging the toaster and coffeemaker when not in use, reusing items (including fabrics that would have been thrown away for my business products), using cleaning products that are natural, buying items that have reduced packaging, buying eco friendly products, using cold water for our most of our washing, using an HE washer with He eco detergent, buying as much local and organic foods as we can afford. There is more but you get the drift, in our case our household can handle this, I enjoy this. To other people we are doing too much or too little. But, for us we know we are making changes 1 at a time that over time just evolve into our lifestyle. Then we make another adjustment. We live in comfort with our 'greenness' Small changes, plus more small changes will make a difference, and it will teach our children. Don't let others tell you your level of eco- you decide it- you live with it. The point is to have some sort of positive eco output in your home/ life. Make a plan.
Up next in our plan is getting a rain/ gray water barrel to help reduce the water output for our garden. (It takes our house a long time for the water to warm up for showers and baths- that would go in the barrel too!)
What's in your plan? I would love to know what your household does to be 'green' or what is next in your plan. It is definitely a new time of change, one in which we all need to participate at some level. 1 small change makes a big difference. 1 small change, 1 big difference in the world and a good feeling in spirit/soul/responsibility wherever you feel it. Be proud!

One step closer

Today I approved a proof of my sell sheet for our new Disaster Kit. So excited!!! Thank goodness for graphic designers- the sell sheet went from amateur to perfect in minutes! Now, I just need to get sales made.
Yes, I did end up getting eco printing with eco paper and added some technology to the piece with a QR.

Spring is here

With the arrival of spring comes the warm sunshine and plenty of backyard play. Toys have migrated out of the garage have populated the space. It turns out to be a wonderful solution to my photography woes. I have wonderful photographers all around, but I need to cut that area and do them myself. Along with my friends DSLR, that I borrowed, the kids out door toys have been wonderful props/ settings for my new products. Natural lights, kids toys, new products and a wonderful photo editing site my photos seem to be working out. But, I take about 500 photos every time I pull it out.

New products

I think the most exciting thing about having my own business is creating new items for my store. I love it! So far I am still in the process of learning to use a camera that I am borrowing to shoot my new creations, and manipulating it with photo software Picnik and storing/sharing it on flickr. I think I am starting to have fun with this!

ORGANIZING MY SEWING ACCESSORIES

Sometimes I just need to get things cleared up so I can move forward. My sewing needles have gotten out of control! I will try to get a a needle free and my hand gets attacked for a hidden point coming from beneath. Then there is the tangles monstrosity of thread that covers my cluster of needles like a sticky spider web. fighting to get a needle free is something I want to avoid no include in every day practice.
It finally dawned on me to use a glass bottle that a friend had given to me several years ago. It's lid a cork works perfectly to keep needles with thread in place and untangled. The glass bottle holds assorted needles that I can easily grab from the wide mouth or from the collection stuck at either end of the cork top.
My bottle had become functional, my needles have become organized. I just wish I could do this with all of my work accessories.

Timing

I am working on the new packaging of my Disaster Kit. I want to make a few different mock-ups with sizes and colors. I came to the conclusion(with help from my supporters: Joe, Kristina & Maria)and that I would like to hold a focus group to go over all the aspects. I still question a few things that may go in the kit and have too many choices for packaging. Plus, I figure this will help get the word out.
I figured I would enlist the help of a few mommies I know and have them lead a group of their other mommy friends (mommy groups) and discuss:
*Price point for buying as a baby shower gift
*Included items usefulness
*Disposable verses cloth for some items
*Labeled boxed versus printed on box
*List of items inside box versus on rear of box
*Would you buy this as a gift or for self?

Any other suggestions for questions?

I want the focus groups to include new mommies, seasoned toddler mommies and mommies to be. I was thinking of asking friends to host this group here in the Bay Area, and a few around the nation. The Group would need to recorder so I could gather the information- but I wouldn't be there.

I need to come up with a gift for mommies who participate. I would limit the groups- especially since I would be asking friends to host in their home.

Any tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Oh, the title. I have to sew a few items and my boys are busy being boys who won't need my attention. My toddler tries to sit on my lap when I sew- and that doesn't work! Outside it is rainy and the wind is so strong I'm sure it could pick up my kids. So trying to contain them means I need to be with them at all times. I already tried to use the restroom today (alone that is) and as soon as I shut the door it sounded as if a riot had ensued. How am I going to get in my 3 projects today? I can't stop thinking long enough to start acting- or stop managing kids.



Anymore suggestions?

Vacation

So, deciding to tag along with my husband for work was a little more complicated then usual. The rain just wouldn't let up and that narrowed our activities a bit. We were in L.A. and yes we did go to Disneyland, in the rain, until it started creating little pools of water in our ponchos while seated on the rides.
However, we did get to go to a few great indoor activities for the kids. All in all it was a good trip- just not exactly the way I had first imagined.
Over the course of the week we were gone one of the products I sell, BabbaCo. carseat covers, was featured on Rachel Ray's talk show. Lucky for me Lizzy's Busy Baby Products was featured on BabbaCo.'s site as store of the month so we got a little bit of action. This was a nice surprise and definitely a boost to the slow January sales.
Unfortunately, I did not change my settings (email,website,phone) to acknowledge a time of business delay or out of office. This trip was short and somewhat close to home but, in the future I will need to teach some of LBBP's supporters how to handle shipping and go over our products storage. Having another person help out every now and then would be nice!

Today I met with another local mommy who is a designer/crafter of wonderful pieces of housewares and babywares in the eco world. Sam is the founder of inkloredesign.com and a busy mommy. She took time out to chat about the world of handcrafting and selling online. She has had her shop about twice as long as I have had and was nice enough to share some pretty good business tidbits.
I love her hydrangea print items-yes, because they are my favorite flower- and her designs are simply and beautiful.
Check them out at inklore

Another Great site

Ksleepy has some amazing nightlights.
Her cupcake night lights are an adorable touch to your little ones room.
I am having 1 specially made for my sisters dorm room- no age limits here- in a zebra print. I'll post that pick when it comes.
Check out the site-they are cute, they are hand made by a mommy and for us Bay Area people it's local. The cost $20-take a look. *She also makes great robot night lights.

7AM and already dealing with it...

7am I have an email from one of the companies I sell and use for my kit. An email I was not at all happy with-a note of competition is what it was. And as if to add a little more the company then tried to get me to buy and sell their version that is not coming out before mine. Hmmm, why? This is my thing- my eco kit- why would I want to sell yours?
After a few hours I continued the conversation with them and, well it is better than it started. But, of course we are not done. Maybe, I was thinking it was worse than what I first suspected. But, I know 7am is way to early to hear that a new competitor has popped up after I announced my news to them. Yes, I could be coincidence, that still doesn't change how I felt. This part of small business I don't like. I lack the big name to move at a faster pace but not the bite to keep up and get my product and name out there. So, I will press forward.
I am trying to avoid the details-

On a positive note- I posted a new picture of a go kit with a new interior idea (instead of elastic I used the coordinating fabric) and I got a sale off that post. I was placed with the new interior but I guess so are others and that makes me feel very good! Now, I just need to finish the one R ordered and I will post a few pictures of that one.

Contest Winner!!!

To see if you won tune in to our facebook fan page. I finally got it to work but this was the only way. Check it out!

Winners!

Hey folks- the video clips are being tranfferred but are taking forever. The winners are picked - it's just taking a bit.

Our new M&D toys

Melissa and Doug new items for Lizzy's Busy Baby January 2010

Melissa & Doug

I reordered some Melissa & Doug puzzles that I was out of plus ordered a few new ones. In addition I ordered Birthday Party & Cupcake sets (like the cutting foods ones we already have). I faxed in my order to have them call me back and need to make some changes. Not, a big surprise since the stamp incident that occurred months ago.
(Stamps I didn't order- I ended up with and can't return until, February at least, 6 months after I received them...hmmm).
the change was to help with shipping-double my number of cutting toys- fine since I didn't order many not an issue. I took off 2 sets(I hope to order them in the spring)and doubled the cucpcake and birthday party sets- except she doubled the puzzles, and birthday sets and left the cupcake set. Oops!
I try to keep my numbers somewhat low so I have roomh for my stock and they ship really quickly so I don't EVERY worry about running out. Don't know where I'm going to put all the puzzles!
I like Melissa & Doug toys because the they are made of wood, non-toxic paint and are hand crafted. Things that make the world a little better. But, getting what I ordered seems to be an issue that I will get tired of dealing with soon.

And the printers said:

Sorry but we don't think our boxes are a good fit for product. We feel you need a thicker box than what we can make for you.
Shoot!
Set back round 2
They were the most eco-friendly out there and have a quick turn around.
Of course the call came after I had spoken with Kristina of 'Kewingcreative' about helping me create a mock up the printing I want on it, since she is the designer of my logo and blog.
I am still going to find a box I like and create a mock up and then take that to printers. It might be easier that way.
Set back round 2

Wednesday Contest

I'm giving away 1 Green Sprouts Eco- divided plate and utensil set.
Lizzy’s Busy Baby Products is giving away 1 set of eco dishes & utensils.

BPA, PVC, Phthalate and Petroleum Free

The Green Sprouts Divided Plate by iPlay is made from EcolGreen bio-Polymer (NatureWorks®), a cornstarch-based eco-friendly plastic.
• No synthetic or toxic materials
• Biodegradable and compostable
• Not dishwasher safe; hand wash with warm soapy water (do not soak in water)

NOTE: Because this product is made with cornstarch, exposing it to temperatures above 140F or below -4F will negatively affect the integrity of the product. Do not use boiling water, dishwasher, microwave, or a sterilizer to clean this product. Simply surface wash with mild soap and warm (below 140F) water. Otherwise, if these care instructions are not followed, product will be damaged and must be disposed of.


Enter to win by:
Becoming a fan of Lizzy’s Busy Baby on Facebook on commenting on the contest
Becoming a follower on twitter and tweet about the contest and mention Lizzy’s Busy Baby Products contest
Becoming a follower of Lizzy’s Busy Baby blog and commenting on the contest
Becoming a fan and commenting on A Mom’s Impression Blog
Becoming a follower on twitter and tweet about the contest with the mention of amomsimpression

Contest begins Wednesday, January 06, 2010 and ends Sunday, January 10, 2010 at 3:00pm PST. I winner will be drawn and you can tune in Sunday at 3:30pm PST to watch a YouTube clip of the drawing @http://www.lizzysbusybaby.com or here!

Project

Was sewing with the machine they gave me as a replacement to the one that was broken. It seems to be a refurbished model- this is day 3 of using it and already the plastic bobbin door is broken making it incredible hard to sew with fabric coming towards you.
The handle to carry the machine was stuck and I had to use 2 different tools to coax it out and it still doesn't go up and down like it should. It's just to stiff.
So, I figure I'll just use it until a massive piece breaks- take it back and then upgrade. Until then I sew in frustration.
Towards the end of a project E, came out his room, awake from his nap and started talking about watching a show. Then sat down on the couch and laid his head on a pillow to ask me : "when you are done with your Lizzy's Busy Baby Project will you make a Lizzy's Busy Baby Project for me and Daddy?" The rest of the conversation goes as such:

I then went back and made a bib, organic french terry bib with organic fabric accents. moments later J. woke up and that was the end of sewing for the day, maybe round 2 after the boys go to bed.

Starbucks Gift Card Give Away!

Enter now.
There will only be 1 winner-shouldn't it be you?
Tell me the reason your busy baby has made you coffee dependent.

Tired

Spent most of last night firing off emails to companies to get the ball rolling on manufacturing my product- I use the 'manufacturing' in a very liberal sense since I am the one putting it together. I should really get started on the sewing- I only need to make 1,000 organic blankets and washcloths. That should be no problem. Cut, sew, add tag-should just FOREVER to complete.
Now, I am waiting for responses,calls something. And am not sewing--hmmm that might be an issue!
I need to make a few things to send off this week- 2 go-go kits, 1 Bosom Buddy.
Shipping so far this week includes items to bloggers, an item to my mother in law, and a baby gift.
I need to order more M&D toys today- replenish the puzzle stock and add a few more.
I'm sending an order with my husband next week,sure hope she orders items I have in stock.
And post my first contest. I hope that goes well!
We shall see.

Check us out!

You know I love BabbaCo.'s carseat covers. I needed 1 one my boys were in the their infant car seats. As exciting is the fact that Jessica is just weeks away from being a mommy of 2 and has her creations made here in the USA.
Back when we met and I purchased BabbaCo. Lizzy's Busy Baby was interviewed. We are now January's featured store:). Check out our interview @ BabbaCo. and check out our stock of BabbaCo. fleece carseat covers. All January we are offering free shipping and a free organic french terry baby bib with your BabbaCo. carseat cover order.