Bittersweet and the little soap company

Missouri Automne Flea Market Travels

All right girls, this is where I might quite possibly offend some of you. Remember I'm a tad bit bias while discussing this delicate subject..

Personally, I believe Missouri is one of the best territories for flea market shopping in the good old US!  Oh yeah, the big state of Texas has some hard to beat grand flea emporium's, plus you have Mar-burger,  the tiny town that magically transforms itself into a spectacular three day  flea event! We mustn't leave her out!

Sunny Southern California happily hosts huge parking lot fleas, like this one,  as well as those one of a kind hip boutiques.

Iowa, I have to say, Iowa would probably be runner up on my list. Do you know why? I admire the way the Iowans make use of  what they have. They have been practicing the art of re-use and recycle long before it was the green thing to do. I love driving through the Iowa countryside. Especially fond of this small town.  There are little flea market shops nestled in amongst the small towns and back roads.

Sorry Iowa, we're talking about Missouri now!

Oh wait, Minnesota, can't leave the twin cities out! There's Junk Bonanza, great show! Some of the gals that detail their wares at Vintage Market travel over the hills for that show!

Kansas,  Every Missouri girl knows, you don't want to miss the big Sparks Kansas show, and if you drive further North, White Cloud, now Spark's little sister flea event, don't forget to climb up on that hill and gaze over the mighty MO. That's where you'll be able to officially say you've witnessed seeing  four states at once,  if you dare to climb to the overlook. I like stuff like that! The states you'll be seeing,  Missouri, Kansas , Iowa and Nebraska. 

I know I've more than likely left out your wonderful place you call home, and I know you have some magnificent, glorious flea market localities, I know you do! But were'e talking about Missouri remember?

Yesterday, Julie and I traveled to one of our favorite flea market towns, St. Joseph Missouri. St. Joseph is not only trimmed with rich history it has more than a  couple of my favorite vintage markets.

I like this one because the boutique proprietors seem to have a great eye for detail while showcasing their wares.

  

Directly next door to Rusty Chandelier, this one.  

Then, I don't know if you've ever indulged in this unique 
 vintage candy bar before, but if you have, and so you'll know, it is manufactured in St. Joseph Missouri.

This Missouri Automne flea market tour will continue in the weeks to come as I journey here and there to bring you more of Missouri's unique vintage market travels.

Enjoy caring and sharing Automne Days.

Happily,

Jill 00 (Two hugs are better than one)

Displays and some scanner fun

I began working on some in house Christmas displays at the studio yesterday. Mainly wanted to get some photo opts for the web site so that Bittersweet can offer their holiday soaps a little earlier this season. 

Really am digging the embroidered sign,  just because its easy to place/hang, here and there.
Lot's of things going on and some surprising twists to share with you later.

I really do want to show you my recent attraction now though, scanner fun.

The other day I was looking for a background to design a postcard for a client. Even though my library has thousands of backgrounds to choose from, I could not find the perfect one, you know fastidious, love that word! I decided to mess around with some vintage fabric and trims and scan the textiles to use as background. 

Although I have scanned fabric remnants before, I had never scanned vintage pieces. It was so much fun! I really like the way the scanner picks up the details, the tiny fibers and the imperfections.

 Isn't that fabric detail snazzy?

Another soap making day, rainy and cool , cold this morning, a good day to make soap!

Closing the Saturday Studio this Saturday and planning an all day Flea market rendezvous. This is one of my favorite shows and the one  I go to every Autumn. Looking for a few little things, always excited and anticipate going to this flea cause I always find great stuff. I'll be sharing, if I find some worthy goods.

Soap wrap assembly line coming soon!

Enjoy caring and sharing Automne days.

Happily,

Jill 00 (Two hugs are better than one)
  
 

Round or Square

When asked if I prefer round over square I guess I prefer both. The deciding round versus square choice would depend on the circumstance, thoughts and ideas at the time.

There are round hay bales and there are square  bales, round tables, square ones, round mirrors, round soap,  you get the picture. Probably you've never put much mind to it, maybe you have.

I am constantly going back and forth with round and square in my designs, labels, etc.

Check out this web site it might help you decide if you're having difficulty deciding on shapes.

When making these lavender sachets I decided on round. The decision was quite simple, I was tired of square sachets.

At this moment I have too many projects to count going on at once. I am even adding more, and I'm beginning to realize it's time to knock off some from the list. Otherwise I get overwhelmed and just seem to spin my wheels not accomplishing any. Do you do that?

So today, even though I don't want to, I'm dragging out the calculator and piling up the expense files and doing our taxes, mainly so I can say it's done and I can move on to more pleasurable things. 

Then, and it seems to happen about this time every year, I'm re-painting the studio. I'm finding my preference in wall color has changed.  I'm partial to softer wall colors and prefer light pale tones versus bright colored hues like the gypsy red that's on the studio wall now. 

I adore the color red but a bit tired of it on my walls.

When painting with red be prepared to slap on several coats, and several meaning more than three. Then when you decide to paint over it, primer will be your best friend. always prime over red. So with those painting tips in mind, that's what I'm going to do. I'll share the new look.

Also, I have some new packaging to share later on some old Bittersweet products.  

One more thing, if you stumble upon this blog and have read to this point, if I may so politely ask of you one little thing. Would you please click on this link and tell me if it took you to the Bittersweet web site. No obligation, you don't have to stay, I just want to see if it's working properly. Thank you. 

 

Enjoy caring and sharing days. 

Happily,

Jill 00 (Two hugs are better than one) 

With Love, Evalyn

I met Evalyn some nine or ten years ago while waiting across the street for  the school bus to lift Patrick to school. She was our new neighbors nanny. I was immediately drawn to her sweet honest personality and couldn't help but notice her gentle hand with the neighbors children.

Since that time we have become good friends, and I think very highly of her. Even though she's some thirty plus years older than me, age has never been a relevant factor in our friendship.

Evalyn's husband past away in the eighty's  and she  has been taking care of herself  over the years. Now that my neighbors kids are mostly grown, she continues her work with children part time at a local church nursery.

Everyone likes Evalyn. I've never heard a harsh word come from anyone when referencing her, and her generous and caring ways shine through each and every time I have the pleasure of her company.

She has taught me many things during our years of friendship. I'm thankful and blessed she came into my life, and I will always carry fond memories of our journeys to flea markets, our worldly conversations over coffee, and the private embroidery lessons she so gracefully shared.

Evalyn came to me asking if I could put together some small caring and sharing tokens to honor her appreciation to her co workers at the nursery, as the last day of the school year has approached.

 

This is a picture of the caring and sharing tokens I made for my dear friend.

Inside a small bar of Bittersweet Soap, and then attached, little notes that say, with love, Evalyn. (by the way, that's how she spells her name) Each petite soap bar is then wrapped in classic red and white.

I think she'll like them.

Enjoy caring and sharing days.

Happily,

Jill 00 (Two hugs are better than one)

P. S. Saturday nights party was so much fun, and I'll be sharing some of the highlights later this week. My sweet friends, Julie and Patty came bearing gifts for the hostess with the mostess, and I can't wait to show you pictures of the vintage gifts they brought.

   

*Timeless Continued*

I've been digging through some of the pictures my Uncle sent me. I must say, I am  flabbergasted by these photo's. Not only does my Uncle Richard have a knack for capturing the moment, he also must be commended for recording so many of these precious images.

Uncle Richard, Thank you for thinking so much to the future. I am deeply thankful.

Isn't this a great picture of my Dad? See the perfect capture of the moment thing my Uncle has going on..

Then the pic of my Dad standing in front of this enormous tree. The trench-coat and the tree together, timeless.

This is a picture of my Aunt Charla. My Aunt Charla taught me to crochet. She was a hip chick. I remember many things about my Aunt Charla. I remember her having the coolest hiking gear when we went hiking in Washington where my Uncle lived. I remember her perfume, Prince Matchabelli, and I remember her being kind and soulful like. Again, my Uncle captured this in the photo of her.       

This is me at about 6 or so. My Mom would dress me in these fancy little dresses and then I would run out to ride my bike or play in the dirt. This picture explains my early attraction to flowers and fragrance. He did it again!

As I look at these old photo's I am re-introduced to memories over and over again. That's the magic about pictures.

I think about the past and the present,  and while looking at these photo's I somehow feel connected as a human being. They pick me up when I am down, and make me smile. I guess that's what they're suppose to do. I know one thing for sure. Looking at these wonderful photo's makes me want to grab my camera and snap as many pictures as I can of my family.

This is a picture of my Uncle Richard. You know, the guy that took these timeless shots. This seemed like an appropriate photo of him to share with you. I believe it captures him.

Enjoy caring and sharing summer days.

Happily,

Jill 00 (Two big hugs go out to my Uncle Richard)      

Nifty Cute!

I spotted these little snow cone holders at Target the other day, and knew they would be nifty cute for displaying the fizzy snow cones. Who thought of these? What a great idea! Darn it, I wish I would have thought of creating these. I'm going back to Target and purchase some more until I have fizzzzzzy snow cones setting throughout the entire studio.

I received a call yesterday from a customer that has cancer and is going through radiation. Her last treatment is on Friday and she wanted to give the technicians a little gifty something. She chose to give each a bar of Bittersweet Soap. I wrapped each soap in a little bag and tied the bag with satin ribbon. I usually don't like plastic wrapping, but there's something special about these sparkly little soap bags. 

Over the years my company has been chosen for such thank you gifts, and most of the time it is a bar of soap that they choose to give.

I feel blessed that I am able to share my soap in such a positive spiritual way. I consider my soap to be a simple, but yet soulful gift for giving.

Enjoy a caring and sharing day.

Happily,

Jill 00 (Two hugs are better than one)

   

Plan In Place....and moving on.

When something unexpected happens to you, like the car accident last week that I had, it's important to have a plan. When I first got creamed I was pretty upset, and not really thinking about a plan quite yet. Now, I'm thinking plan. If you don't have a plan, things can get mixed up and you can easily be taken advantage of. I guess that's the way it's always been, but I really haven't ever pondered the thought too much until now. 

A plan protects you, and even can even comfort you. With a plan you know exactly what your next step is, it somehow lessens the blow, and builds your confidence.

I'm really getting tired of blogging about this accident, but feel since I'm experiencing such mental trauma with the insurance company that possibly this blog will help others going through similar issues.

Here's the story...

I have had the same insurance for twenty some years and never filed a claim. I have not even ever been in a wreck while I was driving. The gal that hit me ran the stop sign, I didn't even see her coming. She got a ticket for C & I driving. Once the insurance companies determine who's fault it is, it goes against their claim. Since it was her fault, it is filed on her insurance. One little catch though, we both have the same insurance company.

When the insurance company contacts you for the first time they send out the big dog first. He does everything he can to intimidate you. He lies, he cheats, and since I'm a woman, he's even thinks he's an even bigger dog! The first offer is usually around twenty-five percent lower than what they should offer. That's just the way they do. Never take the first offer, Never!

If you refuse the first offer, which is what I did, they then have the right to refuse you a rental car. So plan on them taking the rental back after about one week when you refuse their offer. It's just another part of their intimidation process. You see they have a plan... Now comes the wait... They won't contact you for a few days.

If you don't hear from them within 3 or 4 days call and ask to talk to the claims supervisor. In my instance I had an 03 car, but it only had twenty-eight thousand miles on it. Tell the claims supervisor to find you a car that only has twenty-eight thousand miles on it for the amount they have offered you. Chances are they would have to look long and hard to do that, and they know that!

You can even take that first offer and purchase a new car, make up the difference out of your pocket, and still  file a dispute against the insurance company. It will take some time, but you will eventually get your money.

Not knowing any of this information, and finding it out and researching it helped my create my plan. I hope that you never have to deal with such a thing, but chances are you probably will at some time in your life.

Remember to construct a plan, and don't allow the insurance company to stress you. That is what they are trying to do. Take a deep breath, and release...Remember too, you are too blessed to be stressed!

I promise, I will not talk about this anymore. It was everything I could do to finish typing this morning. I feel it's important though for you to know.

Yesterday I enjoyed creating some new things for Vintage Two, and I updated the web site with our auction updates, so check it out! 

Enjoy a caring and sharing day.

Happily,

Jill 00 (Two hugs are better than one)

It's A Numbers Thing!

Did you happen to notice yesterdays last comment? I  have this thing about numbers!  Exactly  two-hundred, and fifty three posts, and the very same number of comments.  What are the odds? Well, I won't go into that, but let's just say it's very unusual that both would match.

I'm continuing to add items to VINTAGE TWO. Check out the paper weights. Cable man is dropping by this morning. We are switching to cable telephone service. We currently have everything else with them, so I thought if would be more cost effective to have our phone too. After I called the company, I found that we will save around fifty dollars a month. I have the Bittersweet phone line at the studio, and it is still land line. I think that's what they call it?

Speaking of phones. I don't have a cell phone! I know most people do, but I don't. The rest of my family have one, and I will use it occasionally if I'm traveling alone, but ninety-eight percent of the time I have NO CELL PHONE. Does that seem weird to you? I actually purchased one, and had it setting around for about three years or so, never used it! Let's me honest here. I really don't like cell phones. I mean come on, is it that important to be talking to someone everywhere you go. I used to get so irritated when customers would come in and be talking on their cell phones. I would here conversations like, "I don't know what do you want for dinner"?

Now they have the phones that stick in your ear, and if your looking at the person from the other side, you don't notice their on the phone. I have even started talking to them thinking they were talking to me, and then they turn their head and I see the headset. Don't let me go on! Because you know I will. Anyway, cell phones, a controversial subject.

More to something fun... More Saturdays flea market finds. I found this floral box, and love the patterns. I'd say from the fifty's.

This box stumped me. It has the word Cannon on the front. Cannon with two N's. Possibly a perfume box? Anyway, I guess it doesn't matter because I like the box.

This little perfume atomizer is a delightful find. I collect these, so it's always nice to find things you collect while flea marketing. This is another item you don't see very often. The rose bud on top is a pump for distributing your perfume.

Check out the seventy's fabric. It's a thick canvas fabric that will make the cutest pot holders for Vintage Two. I also picked up the string beans, just thought they looked good with the fabric. 

I love this sparkly clip! Very French, and sexy! I can't wait to wear it with my favorite pair of jeans.

These little paper coasters were a true delight neatly packaged in their original box. You know the Vintage Kitchen Swap is coming up, hmm.   

I believe that completes my collection of Saturday's Vintage Finds.

This Spring and Summer are going to be so much fun with Sandy and Vintage Two. I'm really looking forward to blogging about all the flea marketing, and exciting trips, and adventures.

I believe I'm caught up with Bittersweet orders, and am anxious to assist Mr. Smith with his quads.

I will take a few shots and place them on Vintage Two. I'm working on paper items now. The little note books are so cute!

Enjoy a caring and sharing day!

Happily,

Jill 00 (Two hugs are better than one)

It's A Numbers Thing!

Did you happen to notice yesterdays last comment? I  have this thing about numbers!  Exactly  two-hundred, and fifty three posts, and the very same number of comments.  What are the odds? Well, I won't go into that, but let's just say it's very unusual that both would match.

I'm continuing to add items to VINTAGE TWO. Check out the paper weights. Cable man is dropping by this morning. We are switching to cable telephone service. We currently have everything else with them, so I thought if would be more cost effective to have our phone too. After I called the company, I found that we will save around fifty dollars a month. I have the Bittersweet phone line at the studio, and it is still land line. I think that's what they call it?

Speaking of phones. I don't have a cell phone! I know most people do, but I don't. The rest of my family have one, and I will use it occasionally if I'm traveling alone, but ninety-eight percent of the time I have NO CELL PHONE. Does that seem weird to you? I actually purchased one, and had it setting around for about three years or so, never used it! Let's me honest here. I really don't like cell phones. I mean come on, is it that important to be talking to someone everywhere you go. I used to get so irritated when customers would come in and be talking on their cell phones. I would here conversations like, "I don't know what do you want for dinner"?

Now they have the phones that stick in your ear, and if your looking at the person from the other side, you don't notice their on the phone. I have even started talking to them thinking they were talking to me, and then they turn their head and I see the headset. Don't let me go on! Because you know I will. Anyway, cell phones, a controversial subject.

More to something fun... More Saturdays flea market finds. I found this floral box, and love the patterns. I'd say from the fifty's.

This box stumped me. It has the word Cannon on the front. Cannon with two N's. Possibly a perfume box? Anyway, I guess it doesn't matter because I like the box.

This little perfume atomizer is a delightful find. I collect these, so it's always nice to find things you collect while flea marketing. This is another item you don't see very often. The rose bud on top is a pump for distributing your perfume.

Check out the seventy's fabric. It's a thick canvas fabric that will make the cutest pot holders for Vintage Two. I also picked up the string beans, just thought they looked good with the fabric. 

I love this sparkly clip! Very French, and sexy! I can't wait to wear it with my favorite pair of jeans.

These little paper coasters were a true delight neatly packaged in their original box. You know the Vintage Kitchen Swap is coming up, hmm.   

I believe that completes my collection of Saturday's Vintage Finds.

This Spring and Summer are going to be so much fun with Sandy and Vintage Two. I'm really looking forward to blogging about all the flea marketing, and exciting trips, and adventures.

I believe I'm caught up with Bittersweet orders, and am anxious to assist Mr. Smith with his quads.

I will take a few shots and place them on Vintage Two. I'm working on paper items now. The little note books are so cute!

Enjoy a caring and sharing day!

Happily,

Jill 00 (Two hugs are better than one)

Bukuro

In Japan this word means little bag.  Not so very long ago, a Japanese woman would tuck a  bukuro inside the sleeve of her kimono. Everywhere she went she enjoyed the sweet smell of lavender.

I purchased a Japanese craft book several years ago, and had a blast making these little bukuro's. I used Japanese fabric, and hand sewed each one. You mustn't allow stitches to be visible. I used a blind catch stitch on each one, although I do see a few stitches here and there. It's a Jill thing!

There is something enchanting about crafts from other parts of the world. I'm especially fond of Japanese crafts, and partial to Japanese stuffies. I appreciate the patterns and fabrics, and the special attention to detail that goes into the things the Japanese make.

There is something about hand sewing that makes you feel warm and soulful, and there's nothing like the feeling that goes into hand sewing a project. It's as though some of your soul has rubbed off onto the creation, and is forever embedded into each little stitch.

I would imagine that's part of the passion some people experience while quilting. I hand sewed a quilt years ago. I remember the joy of choosing the fabric for the quilt, and I still remember the peaceful soulful feeling I experienced every time I picked it up to sew another stitch. One stitch after another, and another, each one the same, but yet different. Oh maybe I got up to fix a glass of iced tea, and went back to sewing the quilt, and again the same small straight stitch as before. Funny, I don't remember sewing the last stitch! You would think you'd remember the last stitch. 

To this day when I pull that old quilt out of the blanket chest I can still feel that same warm cozy feeling that I experienced while making that quilt. The hand sewn stitches tried and true, and forever you!

Enjoy a caring and sharing day!

Happily,

Jill 00 (Two hugs are better than one)