Birthday treasures are starting to arrive! *19*

I ordered nearly everything for Scarlet's birthday online.  Anticipating their arrival, knowing that I'm going to get packages stuffed with wonderful bit by bit at my door step makes me giddy.
Once it's all gathered together I'll do a vlog on my grand plans.  Today's package was the one I've been the most excited about.  If you watched the recent "Beebs The Builder" video then you'll remember I said "Now all she needs is a friend" to fill her empty chair.
 Today, this little lady was on our doorstep and was a perfect fit.  

Now she's hidden away until party day.

Tracking her down at a reasonable price and ordering in time was a little tricky!   Even though Miss Shortcake has jumped up in popularity again, they don't currently make a soft plush version.  I checked Amazon and found a lot of discontinued plush dolls but most of them were between $50-$100 smackers.  That wasn't happening, but a quick pop over to Ebay and I found this sweet girl for only $24 with free shipping.  She's lovely, new with tags and very well made.  

Scarlet is going to love her berry berry much!

Her b-day outfit from Gymbo arrived last week as well.  The softest, smocked,  floral corduroy number I ever did see, complete with matching t-strap shooooes!  I must squee!

Last year I felt a pang of loss of my infant along with the joys of planning her first birthday.  I had a constant lump in my throat and butterflies in my heart as we inched toward that bittersweet day.  This time I'm nothing but delighted!  Thinking about how happy she'll be to have her friends around, a cake with a candle to blow out, happy birthday songs to sing in her own little shortcake world.  I could burst!

  

Unique Stocking Stuffers / Mini Gifts

Prepare to scroll!  This list is nearly as long as Santa's!
Each year I fill a stocking for everyone in my family.  They're definitely not just for kiddos anymore.  It's a fun way to give a "grab bag" style gift! However, finding treats that delight adults can be tricky.  Come November, I dive into all of the little bookmarks and pinnings I've been hoarding away all year and start planning my gifts.  I like to start with the stocking goodies because usually they inspire other ideas for great gifts.  In our family, we always include the traditional inexpensive bits. Clementine oranges, loose nuts in their shell and candies, chocolate oranges, little trinkets are a staple. Beyond that, I get creative with my stuffers,  usually adding one or two higher priced items (I'm talkin' $25 or less) for the wow factor.  So, I'm always on the look out for unique ideas.   I thought I'd share a sampling of my favorite finds this year.

These would be great mini-gifts for any time of year!  Consider them for Teacher gifts, Mothers Day, Fathers Day, Valentines Day or as an idea for that uncle that you're just not sure what to buy for the Grandparents that have everything!

Craftable Stuffers

Tissue Cases from Martha Stewart - So Easy!  And everyone likes to fill their handbag with little treasures right?

Those are great for our mothers, girlfriends, aunts and grandmothers but if you'd like to make someone younger get excited about your little creation, stuff them with dollar bills instead of tissue!  Take the same idea as lovezilla has done below and just stash the cash into your travel tissue case.

The Helpful Tennis Ball - This little guy has so many uses, check out the link to see more pictures of what he can do.  

Little Envelope Journal from Instructables  - If this is for a little one you could fill the pockets with stickers and dollar bills.  Or if it's for an adult tuck in movie tickets, gift cards, or love notes inside!

DIY Bath Fizzies from Martha Stewart - Simple craft and one batch could be divided into several gifts!

Gift Card Snow Globe by thecreativemama - would be a great gift on it's own or a nice filler to plump up that stocking( perhaps a smaller jar for the stocking).  It's pretty much the perfect gift because obvious love and effort went into it, it's a fun little treasure hung all on it's own and they get to decide how to spend the dough!

Braided cuff bracelet or gadget strap from TJ Potter - If you did this with leather strands you could make a nice gift for that hipster in your life

Gadgety Goods

Colored Ear Phones to designate "His and Hers" - We go through these so fast and color coding takes away the "Are these mine or yours?" guesswork.  They're a must have for Ryan's stocking!  

Leatherman Manicure Multi-Tool ($17) - For those ultra manly manicures *gruntsandpoundschest*

Kick Stand Style IPhone Cases - Super inexpensive, tons of styles and so handy for watching videos and multitasking!

Or go for a retro case like this one from Society6 ($35) - They're are less pricey versions out there, go on a Google hunt!

A Cute USB Hub! ($5-$30) There are a bunch of these on the market, I've linked an amazon search so you can see some of the other choices.  I like this little robot that allows you to plug in in both arms and legs.

Motion Sensor Mini Lights ($18) from Solutions - These can be stuck anywhere and will go on when needed!  They've got great customer reviews too!  

Heart Rate Monitor / Pedometer  ($20 and up) - This is a great gadget for anyone who is hoping to get more active after the holidays and begin the new year with a fresh start!

Portable Speaker  ($24) from Uncommon Goods - perfect stuffing size!

Texting Gloves ($18) from Urband Outfitters - These are available for men at different sites as well, Google it!

Key Ring Tools  ($8) - Keep a Philips and flat head screw driver handy at all times!

A Leatherman multi-tool ($18-35) for the manliest of manicures!  

A Grab Bag of Treasures

Custom stamps from lilimandrill ($25 and up) on Etsy.  You can also find great custom address stampers with a quick Etsy search.

Pooping Reindeer ($7) from Paper Source - cute or ew?  Either way I betcha know someone who would get a kick out of it!  

Owl Timers ($21)  from Paper Source - I want one!  Gimmie!  

Matrushka Manicure Set ($11)  from Paper Source - More cute things to fill my handbag/diaperbag with.

Stackable engraved rings ($18) from cinnamonsticks on Etsy - Great price for such a sweet personal gift.

Mustache bottle toppers ($10) from Fab.com - why not?  

Knit Ear Warmer with Bow! ($20) from FredFlare - Be cute when you're cold!

"Keep Calm" Bandages ($8) from Urban Outfitters - After being on every stinkin' surface possible, this trendy phrase found a perfect, logical home!

Giant Gummy Bear on a Stick $10 from FredFlare - A necessary item in life 

Seasonal Tea ($15) from Papersource by The Repuplic of Tea - my favorite gourmet brand!

Vintage Bird Mug with lid ($13.95) from Paper Source - So many of us are suckers for birds (Portlandia anyone?) and this comes with a lid!  How handy, sorta...

Baby's First Christmas

Children's items differ depending on the age and this list is crazy long already.  So, I've just tackled a couple of things for baby's first stocking.  I will however, show you everything Scarlet is going to get in her stocking in another post or vlog soon! 

Fortune Cookie booties ($28) from Uncommon Goods - Okay these are a bit over priced but your first Christmas only comes around once, right?  And the fortune is too cute. These seem like they could be craftable too, so maybe make your own version! 

Sili Squeeze with Eeeze ($15) from The Silico - New improved design is great for home made purees, yogurts and smoothies!

Boo-Boo Bunnie ($8) - These little freezer friends make those bumps and bruises alllll better!  Scarlet has one and the tears stop as soon as the bunnie is in her hand.  They come in a variety of adorable colors and prints too! 

Monogrammed Unisex ID Bracelet from MinusOne on Etsy ($28) - I bought one of these from this seller for a friends daughter's first birthday.  She'll do any name up to 6 letters.  Makes a great keepsake! 

Sandra Boynton Box Set ($13) - A MUST for every child's library.  These books are fun quick stories that help your child delight in reading early!

And finally, a Mustache Pacifier from Fred Flare ($12) to be like daddy with his beer toppers :)

Hope that sparked some ideas!  What are your favorite stocking treats and traditions?

Happy Stuffing! 

***Disclaimer***

I have NOT purchased items from each of these links before.  Please only purchase from reputable vendors.  I have personally shopped at Paper Source, Urban Outfitters, MinusOne on Etsy and Amazon.

Consignment Events - Tips and Tricks

This one is a doozy, but if you trust me (cue imagery from Disney's Aladdin) then I promise I'll make it worth the read.  If you haven't heard of consignment shopping then click here and skool yo' sef.

Now on to business.  While there are several types of consignment stores (or charity shops) about, a 'consignment event' in the mom community means an event that hosts a feast of frugal frocks and frills for the smallest among us.  Kids often outgrow their clothes and gear before there's much wear, so consigning those items give parents a little padding in the pocketbook whether you're selling or shopping.  
As requested, I just uploaded my Fall Haul on my youtube channel.  If you are interested to see all that I got, head that direction. 
Here are a few insider tricks for those that might be gearing up for their first consignment shopping experience or those that feel overwhelmed by these events.  We're going to tackle it from a shoppers perspective.  Let's go through zee whole process together shall we?

Here's an overview of what we'll cover:

How to find consignment events near you
What to prepare before the event
How to navigate the space

Tricks for a successful trip

What to avoid

• How to Find Consignment Events Near You

The most common nationally recognized event is called "Just Between Friends" and if you click the link and plug in your zip code, you can see if they host seasonal events in your area.  My friend Christina who is the uncrowned Consingment Queen, let me in on a convenient website called consignmentmommies. 
Just plug in your regional info and voila!  The hunt is over. 

Once you find an event, make sure to take note of the sale hours closely.  Most events offer special shopping hours to those that are volunteering, consigning their items or first time moms. Those lucky ducks get the first shot at the goods.  If you're interested in joining those ranks, check out how you can volunteer or sell a few of your own things. It's easy peasy!

• What to Prepare for the Event

Planning on bringing your little one with you?  Check the website and make sure they allow strollers.  Some have tight quarters and will ask you to check your stroller at the door.  Wrangling the wee ones in all of those racks and piles of toys is tricky.  So if possible, leave them at home.

Make a list!  A list will help you cut through the bulk and give you an idea of what you're looking for. Don't freak, I'm not trying to limit you.  In no way do you have to stick to the list. Just use it a guide to keep you from feeling overwhelmed.  Keep it simple, even if you just write a couple of things down, it will help you eagle-eye in on the the best stuff.  Once you take that dive into the treasure trove with a goal you'll find other bits and bobs that catch your eye.

Bring a GIANT bag, laundry basket or tub

 to collect your loot.  Don't worry. You wont be the only one and nobody will look atcha funny, promise!   If they do allow strollers, consider bringing yours even if you have a sitter, it's a great make-shift pack mule on wheels!  Load that bugger up!


Wear comfy clothes with pockets for your list, money and cell phone.  You don't want to have to shop the racks, while dealing with a handbag flonking about every time you move your arm.

  

Are you shopping for big items like a crib?  Keep a 'Phone-a-Friend' on standby.  Let's say you find the perfect sleigh crib and fall in love but you're not sure if it meets safety guidelines, has been recalled or what the reviews are like.  If you're like me and don't have a smart phone you'll need to call someone that can do a quick Google search on the item for you.

Want to stay on a budget?  Bring cash.  Some sales have a cash only line that will allow you to avoid the massive lines at check out.  By the time you're done, every part of you is wiped out. The last thing you want to do is stand in a 30 minute queue.  But be warned, there's a chance you might find that Pottery Barn bedding set you've been eyeing for a steal.  Budgets can bum a girl out.

• How to Navigate the Space

The events are divided into sections.  I took a poll on Facebook and it seems most veteran consignment shoppers hit up the same spots first.  If you are expecting, or have a child under a year old then your plan of attack will probably look different from mine.  I'd suggest you search for your big ticket items right outta the gate.  Hit up the pack and plays, high chairs, gliders, breast pumps and bouncers first.  An easy rookie mistake is to leave those things to the end because you don't want to have to lug them around with you.  Problem being, when you return for the item, someone else has snatched it up!  Grab that gorgeous euro-style pram in one arm and a volunteer with the other.  They'll take it to the hold area for you.  Typically they will hold an item for up to two hours.

Here's the game plan I follow for kiddos walking age or older, assuming you already have all your "gear".  I always B-line right to the shoes.  That's one item that I don't want to compromise on quality. Little feetsies and posture are at stake! See the "What To Avoid" section for more on this.  

Next, I shop for any pieces that might be in limited quantity.  Winter coats, holiday clothes or high end clothing like the elusive smocked dress I've been hunting unsuccessfully for will be in high demand. From there I dive into the clothes, then books and finally toys.  The toys are the most likely item at the event to have multiples in stock.  Betcha ten bucks that you see at least 5 little plastic rotary play phones, ya know the ones with the wheels and the smiling faces on them?   Same goes for a lot of the popular brands.  Most consignment shoppers don't go in with toys as their main focus.  It's likely you wont be competing for the goods there.

• Tricks for a successful trip: 

No matter what age your shopping for I suggest grabbing anything that peaks your interest, even if you're not completely sold on it.  If you leave it on the rack, you're risking the chance it may not be there if you come back.  Hold on to it until you're done shopping and then sort through your haul before you check out.  You might realize later that piece you were unsure of fits perfectly into a cute outfit you've collected in your hunt!  Or maybe you'll find that matching Gymboree cardigan to go with that shirt you saw earlier. After you've made the rounds to all of the different stations, go through your loot and make final cuts.

Plan your attack!  For clothing or nursery decor, have a color palette in mind.  This might sound kookie but trust me, if you keep certain colors in mind you'll gravitate toward things that will work well together.  Here are few examples from my recent event.  Most of these pieces were sold separately, from different sellers, but I came home with several mix and match outfits!  

• Things to Avoid

It's easy to get carried away and start tossing anything with that coveted Janie and Jack label into your haul but remember, these items have survived a child before yours.  Give 'em a quick once over first!  If you're looking at pants make sure the waist band is in good condition and the elastic is in tact.  In my haul video I said that I wouldn't have purchased these pink pants had they not been in a set for that very reason.  The waist band is shot!  Had it been in better shape I would have loved these cute little pink skinny jeans.  
Sometimes these problems can be salvaged if the waist band comes with adjustable elastic on the inside (like on the other pink cords I bought), so make sure you take a peeksy.

Other things like loose buttons or strings can be fixed.  If you're looking on shirts run your finger along the inside of the collar. Funny enough, I've had several consignment purchases with peeling tag-less labels printed on the inside. Nobody wants prickly, scratchy plastic poking them in the back.  If it's on a really cute dress I may decide it's worth the extra time at home removing the label.  But if it's on a $1 onsie, I'm not going to bother.  On all items with zippers you'll want to give them a quick trial run.  As long as it's easy up, easy down, toss it in the bag.  When it comes to shoes, I'm really picky.  I only buy shoes with unworn tread on the bottom and no visible shaping to the inner sole.  If you're looking at boots, make sure that there's easy access to get that little foot in there.  I learned that the hard way and have some super darling bookends that were supposed to be wearable boots.  Bad shoes can cause bad problems so be as snooty as you like when it comes to high quality footwear for your wee one.  

Toys can be a crap shoot.  If you're looking at DVDs, it's old technology, so you shouldn't pay more than a few bucks.  At some events they have an area where you can try electronic toys out with fresh batteries.  However, I've only seen that once so you may just have to weigh the risk of buying an item that may not work.  Most people that sell their items at these events are a pretty good sort.
 I usually assume that consigners aren't the type wouldn't sell a broken toy and so far I haven't had one lemon in my loot!  Remember that toys can be subject to recall as well so you may want to keep that phone-a-friend on standby.

Welp.  At this point my bum is numb and my fingertips are all clickity clacked out.  If you've truly read this far then I'm assuming you are just sooo excited for your first event that you're reading/watching anything you can on consignment shopping/hauls.    You've got your battle gear, it's time to get in the game.   *Smacks your tuchus*  Go get 'em champ.

If you have a haul blog or vlog lemmie know!  I'm just as entrenched in the madness as everyone else. Ooh and let me know in the comments if you did read it all.  I promise to be thoroughly   impressed!