Short & Sweet

Changes all around, as I've mentioned in previous posts. I am ready to start updating the blog again regulary and the online store had some issues; so it was torn apart and is now again being worked on. Thank you for your patience.

Also, as a reminder I am no longer buying ANY resale items. Stay reading for announcements about the changes that have finally been finalized.

I do still have a store, at this time it is an unlisted address. However, I do take appointments and still ship and/or deliver locally. Yes, I can get you that last minute gift wrapped and on it's way so you have more time to spend doing other things.

My phone number remains the same, as does my email. Sorry for any delayed responses and/or any unreturned messages. My voicemail is not behaving. Please feel free to call again, and as always email or post below on the site to send a message to my email.

I will still be doing the SRFM, however dates are TBD. There may be some weeks when I will be working in the store or at other events such as street fairs. I will update regularly.

You can also visit our Facebook Page and/or Group (Fresh Picked Boutique). There is a link here on the blog. Follow us also on Twitter @FreshPickedB

Thanks for your continued support and reading. I love you all. Not only will I be contacting customers with store-credit cards on file (whether or not you have credit), but I will also plan on sending an email update in the near future to those on my mailing list. If you are not on it or have not received an email update within a week or so, please add your email by sending me one.

Then I will post more info here. I have LOTS of items that are marked down to be SOLD. Stay tuned. Keep cool. I'll be back!

Saturday-Get Your Shopping Done Outdoors!

Nope, it's not going to rain.







It's not going to rain because....



I'm back at the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market today!



www.srfm.org for info and directions click on the link :)

I'll be bringing hats, new shoes, yummy leg warmers, clippies, bibs and all the fun accessories you could need for the Holiday weekend and weeks to come!

I will have some clothes - and I have more in my car, store and house perfect for the Holidays that just need tags so don't be afraid to ask or get an appointment.

I'm off- hope to see you soon!

Saturday News and Then Some.

I'll actually be in the store for a few hours today instead of the Farmer's Market to catch up on some inventory and receipts/tax logging (fun stuff!). Feel free to call and set an appointment if you want to come by. Otherwise, I'll be working on the online store the remainder of the "working day" and every night after the kids go to bed as long as I need too.



I have a weekly update also and will post later today or tomorrow.



There is so much going on- so I am going to be in and out of the store to get some things settled. I know this has been a major inconvenience for some of you- but, it has to be done and the sooner the better, so I do apologize.



Although my usual store hours are Tuesday-Saturday (or SRFM on Saturdays), for the next few weeks I will take shopping appointments or offer discounts/shipping any day of the week (but you have to ask!). The store phone is forwarded when I am out of the store and you can call or email anytime.



Wednesday was planned as another story time in the afternoon- however, it seems that I just have a playgroup interested if I offered an earlier time. And so I offered them to come at 11:15 on the 25th and figured if anyone had RSVP'd for later, I could do it twice. But I have no confirmed afternoon RSVP's so I am going to officially change the time to 11:15. I will contact anyone who had inquired but not confirmed as well as post a separate post just on that. Also, I will update any web sites it is listed on...



I will elaborate more in a later post about more of what is planned for the next few weeks, as well as update the information on the main part of this site and my voicemail.



The online store is going to be a very important part of the business, as the economy is very slow and reaching a national market and offering convenient online ordering for shipping (pick-up also will be available for locals through the online store!) will ensure that Fresh Picked remains a fabulous San Diego business for years to come. This also will hopefully not only increase what merchandise I can offer, but increase selection!



It should be a Win-Win situation,- just think of it as a "remodel". When businesses go through a change or remodel, they often have to work around the clock but behind closed doors to do it efficiently. Both big chains and small businesses frequently need to reassess what is working, what is not, and what could change.



Hang in there with me and I promise you won't be disappointed. And don't worry if you have credit because your store credit is and will be good- even online. As soon as the website is up and running, I will figure out how to issue the "discount" and notify those of you with credit.



Gotta run. Happy Saturday! And soon I can get back to writing fun blog postings instead of all this blah, blah, blah informative stuff.

New Time, New Week, New Stuff and New Events!

I've been crazy-working on the online store and so much more to do! I've been invited to four big shows also (on weekends other than the Farmer's Market) so I'm trying to decide which (any? all?) are best suited. For sure, the SR Community Fair! Keep you updated on the rest in case you want to check out some stuff in person (if you are local), on a weekend, while doing something else fun!

Thursday story time is still planned for 1 PM. I have had lots of calls, emails, etc. and not really sure whether to expect just a couple little ones or a dozen- either way we will have fun. As mentioned- RSVP's requested, not required. And small groups welcome. Or I can plan some day specific to your group. Please excuse the *dust* as I finish re-arranging the store, get out donations, and divide some things out specifically for online, etc. Let's just have fun. Casual. Come by.

And I think by April we should be ready for some parties? Let's get on it ;)

I have lots of new stuff from Hippie Clippies and Baby Legs, and expecting an order from Inky Binky Baby. Love the new line!

Just call or email if you are coming by Tues/Weds and want to make sure I'm at the store before dropping by. I know it is awful for walk-ins if the store is closed, but as a new business and the only employee- well, I have to weigh out the risks and then jump.

STOUR HOURS MARCH 9th-13th

Right now, I'm thinking Tuesday 10-1ish and Wednesday I can either come early and leave again at 1 or come by after lunch and stay until 3. I have to leave both days by 3 regardless (school transportation for this week and next!) But Thursday all day. Friday again will be a short day, 1:30-4. Volunteer!

Saturday, still debating. Might take this week off from the Farmer's Market to accommodate some Saturday-Shopping requests and work in the store. Lots to do there anyway with so much going on. See how the week goes... www.freshpickedboutique.com available SOON!!!!

But once the online store is running, things should calm down. If all goes well, I hope to have it at least up for viewing by the end of the week and completed by the end of March... I do take orders over the phone and ship though anytime so just because my "online shopping cart" isn't available to view doesn't mean it is not there.

So, I haven't had any fantastic postings or interesting stories lately and I hope you, as other moms, understand that sometimes life throws us into a whirlpool of demands. I promise as always to accommodate you as best I can including shipping, appointments, coupons, service and I always welcome custom orders! Let me get your gift together so you can get one more thing checked off your own list. And so after all that, I just have this to add:

I also have lots of donations for drop-off and as always, there is a high need in the shelters so if you have anything in nice or fixable condition including infant towels, blankets, bibs, stuff for moms, books or toys, clothing, etc. and don't know what to do with it- give me a call and arrange a time to bring it by (or if you see posted hours for the day any time during those).

Donations to the store welcome as well ;) Anything that we don't need (or sell right away) goes into the donation bins.

Don't forget to purchase a ribbon clippie so I can include some needed cash donations! Want a custom ribbon for your cause? Doing a walk? Etc.? Ask, ask, ask. Let me see what I can do for you.

Women and children often leave with little or nothing and tend to get lost in the system. Keep them safe and comfortable- it is something they might not have been in a long time. Remember, domestic violence comes in all forms and affects all "classes" of people. Being thrown from a "middle-class" lifestyle to being homeless is only one of many transitions and hardships that are endured. Google it. Then look around your house. Most people have at least one toy or never-going-to-wear-those-too-small-pants again or the shower gift that just was not your style! One small item adds up when everyone contributes. I'll do the work- I just need you guys to keep giving. It has been fantastic.
boys to men campaign NYC

National Child Abuse Awareness month is in April. Let's see what Fresh Picked can do to raise awareness on symptoms and signs of child abuse and neglect- and understanding that their is more than one way child abuse is defined. Emotional, intimidation, witnessing abuse, neglect, ignorance, and more all are forms of child abuse. Even when their are no "bruises" to arouse suspicion, their just might be an "inside boo-boo".

Okay, back to work on the site and try and get some sleep. Tuesday and Wednesday the hours are not "set-in-stone" except I do have to have to leave no later than 3. So, if you want to come in I will shuffle my schedule if possible and if not, get you a coupon or offer free shipping. This is the make-it-or-break-it six month point. Got to get the site up! I love the store and so many people shop online, I know we can reach a greater audience and encourage fashion, affordability, recycling of clothing, and other fun stuff and at the same time have a "brick-and-mortar" location that supports other moms. A place to shop in comfort, take a seat, let your little ones read a book and play. Nurse or feed your baby.

Much thanks and love to Shanon for all the hours devoted to creating the layout and design hours to come as it gets perfected (remember, I will have it up and running before it is actually "completed"). Words don't say enough/money doesn't pay enough. Need a site for your business, group, organization, personal use or whatever- I'd love to pass the referral on! Just ask.

I'd like to place the See Kai Run order early this week, so if you wanted a custom order from me now is the time to email/call! I'll also follow up with everyone who had asked (or at least I will attempt to!).

Stay tuned.

It's Friday, I'm In Love: Check out the new merchandise in stock!

`As I mentioned previously, I will be having a booth at the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market again this Saturday (and hopefully thereafter- excluding rain). It seems to be a great venue to market some of my merchandise and get the word out about the store. I thought Saturdays would be a busy day at the store with the people who work during the week, but it seems to be my slowest day!

So, get outdoors. This is San Diego right? There is a ton of stuff there for kids to do and it is one of the most popular and largest Farmer's Market around. Visit their website for more info at http://www.srfm.org/SRFM/Home.html

This week they are having a Treasure Hunt for the kids with prizes, in addition to the other wonderful things there- including a playground :)

I bring mostly new and seasonal items when I go, but if you contact me before 4:00 Fridays I can also pack up any specific requests you might have or meet you afterwards at the Store (2 or 2:30 usually). The Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market is located at EBS Elementary School (the new location is the old Marshall Middle School) and the address is 11778 Cypress Canyon Rd. (92131). Directions available through their web page also- click on find us! And then come and find me there from 9-1.

I am still doing inventory at the store- lots of new items to brag about and as soon as I can I will post more pictures and updates. Regular story time needs to be decided this weekend so I can get it posted in the major magazines and web sites - but it will be at least twice this February.

Lots of Valentines outfits, gifts, and accessories also available right now. I have my two little ones at the store this morning until around lunch so come by and play if you want :) I won't be doing a lot of "work" until after lunch.


Happy Friday!

Time Flies!

Wow things have been exceptionally crazy- even for me. More so than usual, if that is possible. I have so many things going on around me I felt like none of it was getting "together".

Is that a mom thing or is it just me?

It has been like Christmas at the store. Lots of new inventory and shipments and moving around displays. Although like Christmas-time, that comes with big bills and OMG I hope I am doing all this right!

I am pretty confident that I am making good decisions for myself and my customers and that we can make it through this economy. This is it everyone. If things don't start picking up- I'm going to have to go online ONLY and that is the end of the dream :(

So, let me know what YOU the customer wants.

Yes, I am a resale shop but that part took a couple years to get together and it stays very steady. I rarely need to buy stuff for that part of the store because I have a pretty good supply. I still have un-inventoried items. It never hurts to ask because I am looking for items here and there all the time but like all shops around here, once you get a basic inventory - you just can't buy a lot of items at once because you just don't have the room. I'm looking for that fabulous can't find outfit or fantastic basic that I just can't seem to keep in stock. Or great recyclable items like slings and stuff like that.

And remember, on top of the resale department I sell a good variety of new items (clothing included) so there is always choices.

My current vendors I work with are:
See Kai Run
Baby Legs - Just in! http://www.babylegs.net/newWeb/home.php?main=ways&sub=ways
Melissa & Doug
Little Knits
Inky Binky Baby
Hippie Clippies
Diapees and Wipees

I also carry Laura Roppe's CD's (please please please go to her website linked below or google her or check out uTube - I'll put a video up one of these days) and fall in love and come in and buy a CD. I can't say enough about her and even though I only met her a couple times, her music speaks to you like a friend and you'll feel like you know her. Become a fan and check out her blogs and her story and that's a whole new world. I have had her CD's in the store before I realized what an impact her story would have on me so go on, when you are done reading here and listen online to "Float Away" or "Little Daughter"

and possibly coming soon by popular request- FuzziBunz (more about that- including interest, classes, casing, etc.) I'm thinking I need to invest in a few pairs myself. I never thought I would say that, but this economy and planet are in need of change, saving $, and supporting other small businesses (by moms of course!)

and then I have lots of new clothes that are mostly on consignment from other out-of-business boutiques/stores/online sellers/etc. Or great finds I have found that didn't have minimum orders since I'm on such a tight budget.

I'm on my laptop and it is as usual super late so I'm going to skip the pictures and long stories and finish up.

Okay, so new shipments in so I'll be around getting everything displayed nicely AND preparing for the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market. I'll post all the info and address again for convenience. I'll be there every Saturday for awhile (unless it rains, then I'll be at the store) and then possibly at the store for an hour afterwards. I usually just bring my new items or seasonal resale items but will bring any item there if requested so feel free to shoot me an email or call (before 4 on Friday!) and I'll pack up specific items for special pick-up. Plus, then you get a fun day out supporting the community, local businesses, and lots of stuff for kids to do!

On the BabyLegs- remember they (1) aren't just for babies! (2) aren't just for girls (3) did you notice that the new on the new Olivia show she has a different pair on in each scene? So cute, and my neice knows the little voice behind the most popular pig! and (4) are totally comfortable, stylish, and afford-ably priced. They are one of the most popular shower gifts right now! I personally love them with a set of burp cloths and something fun like Diapees and Wipees. I can also do special orders and team orders for sports!

Gifts- I will package and ship your gifts. If you want something I don't have give me your budget and I will make a perfect gift prepared for you to give with just a couple basic questions and deposit.

Story time- thank you again to The Big Chill in Scripps Ranch for the donations! I can't wait to catch up on everything and plan a regular story time once or twice a month. I'd like to post on the major web sites and Family Magazine (look for our ad this month!) to catch a fun turn-out and try out different themes and music.

Thanks again for your support. I know the past few weeks have been a little off for not just myself physically, emotionally and at work - but also it seems everyone has a story themselves. So hang in there. We can make it through the tough times. Hey, I pushed out three babies. I can keep my chin up :)

Where have you been?

Last week was a SUPER slow and quiet week at the store. Is it the horrible economy? Was it the beautiful weather (sneezing crazy Santa Ana, but hey, it's San Diego)? Or am I just not marketing myself right?

I think it's time to
A. Go online and let you shop, shop, shop
B. Bribe you in with Princess Parties, Story time and Free Frozen Yogurt
C. I have Coffee!!!!
D. New products on their way
E. Back to the Farmer's Market on Saturday Mornings
F. Shipping!
G. More mailings, coupons and fliers. More more more.
H. Tell a friend discounts
I. Great projects like the blood drive, and other things to bring you out for good purposes and shopping
J. Remind everyone that I'm half re-sale and the other half is new high-end trendy excellent quality but affordable items! So think birthday parties, showers, gifts, get your basic clothing needs, picture attire, some fun accessories. One stop shopping. I'm working on getting some wrapping stuff in the store. Want a basket or gift package made up? Give me your budget and I'll give you something the rest of the guests will be green-eyed over and the guest-of-honor smiling!
K. Send your ideas and I'll be back for more :)

PS I'll be open today at 11 and Friday at 11. Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday at 10:30. Close at 4. That's this weeks schedule!

Happy New Year!

Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and is looking forward to a fabulous 2009! I know I'm ready for good things to come.

It's late, so I'll just give a quick update since I have not posted in awhile. The store is open again, regular hours. Except I'm putting 10:30 to 4 for now because I have a ton of stuff to do around the store, my oldest daughter is out of school a few more weeks, and other random things. So I may be in at 10, but assume 10:30. You can always call first if you want to get there early and I can see if I can make arrangements.

Well the new year brought us some new racks to display the merchandise, so excuse the dust as I rearrange the store. I probably won't be taking any buying appointments until everything gets settled and my tags come in (running low and lots to inventory still!). I like to know what I need before making any purchases, but don't hesitate to call. One never knows ;)

I have also spent the last couple weeks mostly away from the store, spending lots of time with the kiddos and family/friends. We had lots of fun destructing the house and breaking out new projects or finishing chores. This was only spoiled by the horrible virus we all caught, but luckily not only was I away from the store (to not contaminate anyone else) but I am now officially finished with my antibiotics and hoping for my energy level to restore to normal. Of course, I never actually stop working for long. I have a huge list from brainstorming that I have been doing and lots of ideas to get started working on.

My New Year's Resolution is to learn to sew and use a sewing/embroidery machine so I can start on the dream of making some of my own items! Sewing is one craft I never tackled with a machine and certainly never mastered it. I'm keeping my eye out for a gently used inexpensive one to start with. Hopefully something will catch my eye!

I would also like to finalize an official story time. I am working on details of day/time/how often. And maybe even having a different theme each time or treat. Hopefully by the end of the week, I'll make a decision and can get it posted in San Diego Family Magazine for a great turnout! I am also trying to figure out if I should continue at the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market and if so, how often to be consistent without compromising too much time away from the store.

And since I never had an official "Grand Opening Party" I would like to do something special in the next month or two. I have had several requests from people interested in teaching a short class about something (such as cloth diapers or nutrition) and also other moms that sell stuff (something fun, practical or different) to host a "party" at the store. It could even be during off hours. The playroom would allow the kids to play eliminating the need for a sitter. And of course, I always welcome small playgroups or meetings by appointment and of course, this includes a group discount. So if your breastfeeding group is branching out or you and some friends want an excuse to shop together without 'mall-meltdown' let me know and we can figure something fun out. Also, I would like to do some good things such as more donations and perhaps a blood drive...

Good Night!

Saturday December 13th Schedule

So... The big question arises. Is it going to rain and when?

If it is raining, or is extremely probable that it will rain I will not be doing the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market on Saturday and instead will be at the store awaiting smart shoppers avoiding the malls on a Saturday in December to do some shopping. It is much to risky to bring merchandise to an outdoor market and have it potentially ruined by the rain.

But if it is not raining, we will be at a nice booth (wearing a really cool scarf probably due to the cold!) with great gift ideas, coupons, and fliers.

Also, we now have gift certificates!

And... Hair Clips (Clippies) and Pacifier Clips. More on their way and pictures to be posted when I have a little time.

Exciting new products. Exciting resale-new-to-you-products. Received some of my new Melissa & Doug toy shipment today. Anxiously awaiting the next one! I'll post some pictures and product names of those also. And of course, the new See Kai Run order should be in before the Holidays also!

But, I also have a great selection of quality used items and clothing for you to choose from. My inventory changes weekly and I do my best to keep up with my customer's requests. I still also have both new and used outfits and accessories for the Holidays and Pictures or Santa Visits. And some of them can really be mixed and matched with other clothing to be reused throughout the year instead of just a one-time-wear. Whichever is right for you.

So be smart and do some holiday shopping or buy a friend a gift certificate at Fresh Picked Boutique. Consistency, Customer Service, Quality and Variety are important goals to me. And you are supporting other moms because at this point all my products come from other moms- even the big vendors of new products were once small ideas by a mom looking for something different.

And while you are there, pick up a copy of Laura Roppe's CD to give to a friend or yourself. Listen to her music at www.lauraroppe.com and see why it is a must-have gift.

And my neighbor La Jolla Picture Frames (see link below) can personalize and frame items of your choice such as shadow boxes, memorabilia (like Jerseys, etc.), rugs, family portraits, etc. He can even spruce up an old photo and preserve it. What a fantastic gift idea. I'm doing one or more myself (shhh.. can't say anymore about that here!)

Also coming soon- awareness ribbons. The Purple Ribbon (my personal choice) which represents all Cancer Survivors, Cancer Awareness & Detection, Cancer Remembrance and Domestic Violence and Child Abuse. Also, Pink Ribbons for Breast Cancer. Once I get the ribbons in and figure out my cost and what I can price them at, I will post pictures of those also and let you know where the donations for each ribbon purchase will go to.

Final note, Dr. Jason at Active Posture Chiropractic Clinic upstairs from me is still accepting donations for Mama's Pantry (see earlier post for more info or contact his office directly at 858-564-7081 or click on the link below). Remember the gift of giving this holiday season. I'm still waiting to see about the Adopt-a-Family from Becky's House and my YWCA donations. Remember, I take donations at ALL TIMES! You can donate directly to me and then in many cases I may even pick up the items or designate the items solely for YWCA/Becky's House Donations and they will be placed in the bin for a family in need.

Ideas? Questions? Comments? Speak up, I'm listening :)

Saturday's Farmer's Market

We'll be back at the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market. Located at E.B. Scripps Elementary School, which has moved to 11778 Cypress Canyon Road (San Diego 92131), the hours are from 9 AM to 1 PM.

I'll be bringing a small sampling of our merchandise including lots of Melissa & Doug toys, Inky Binky Baby products, some Monchi Crib Shoes, a sample pair of See Kai Runs, and Holiday and Winter Clothing. Oh, and the cute sock rack! Also bringing Laura Roppe CD's! If you don't have one yet, go to her web site (the link is below with my other links) and listen to some of her songs; especially Float Away and Little Daughter.

I'll put a You Tube Video up soon too.

I should be back at the store around 2:00 PM. Excuse the mess while I unpack my truck, but feel free to shop. My dad will be there in case any customers arrive and to take Credit Cards from the Farmer's Market.

Hope to see some of you there!

Inky Binky Baby Pictures

I promised to post some pictures of the new Inky Binky Baby Products I now have in the store and here is just a sampling of what I have! Started by a mom (like all my vendors), Inky Binky Baby products are made with love and care for the fashionable mom. The accessories are fun, unique and priced to sell! You can find these items in other boutiques or the high-end department stores for much more!

I absolutely love the quality of the fabrics and her stitching is made to last. Everything is washable and most products can be for either a boy or a girl. Great to help "accessorize mom" also. And they make great gifts for baby showers, coming home from the hospital, holidays or just because you care! So if you don't need them for yourself, you can always buy them for a friend.

I wish I could use them on my kids but, *sniffle* they are getting to old for all but the hats and blankies (I don't have the blankets in stock yet, but if there is interest I would be happy to order some). You can also order customized burp cloths for a little more. I can give you details in the store or by phone/email. I will be bringing a good selection of the items with me tomorrow to the Farmer's Market so if you can't make it in the store in the next few days but want to check them out, stop by our booth! I'll also be bringing a great selection of Melissa & Doug Toys for gift-giving. And of course, various products and clothing. I'm planning on just bringing clothes up to size 2 so if there is something specific you want me to bring because you cannot make it to the store, call or email me before 4PM today! Otherwise, I'll be back at the store from 2-4 and again next week starting Tuesday... And we are able to take credit and debit cards at the market, thanks to my Dad who will be running the store for me while I wake up extra early and drink lots of coffee! I can do it again :)

Okay, so here's the pictures and details then off to the store.

These are the toddler size Bloomin' Beanies. The beanies are crocheted and fit about a size 18 months up to about a ten or so year old girl. The clips are removable (and movable) as well as interchangeable so you can mix and match color patterns. They are sooo cute on! My girls get compliments everywhere when they wear them. And they are comfortable. How cute would they be for pictures? And to the park, school, grandparents, etc. And my son has one he wears (without the daisy!) and it is just perfect. He's 15 months (OMG!) and my oldest is 5; between the three of them they can mix and match hats and clips and it's great.

I also have some around the store hanging with outfits to give you ideas, but they also work to dress up jeans for your girly-girl!

These are the infant sized ones. They fit from newborn to about 12-18 months, depending on the size of your little ones head. The flowers are smaller and the crochet pattern is different. All the hats are made of soft cotton and are washable.

I also have a small selection of Infant headbands which have even small flowers and you can mix and match those flowers on your beanies also. Or you can put one on you to dress up a tank or your own hair. They say infant, but I had a little girl buy one and it fit her also so I think they are pretty stretchy and would last for a long time.

These fantastic snap-bibs have soft fronts and minky or chenille backs in solid colors. They are so cute and if you insist on putting something on your baby because they drool all over the place, this is the bib that won't embarrass them! And they too are washable so go ahead and use them to feed the baby. As if your little one isn't already the center of attention, these accessories will make them the talk of the outing! They fit newborns to toddlers.

And finally, this is a small sampling of the three-pack burp cloth bundles. You can even mix and match them with the bibs. Let your baby drool, nurse, and spit up in STYLE! And the soft, minky fabrics and retro designs will capture your baby's attention and give him/her something to grab on to.

So that's the pictures for now. Off to the store!

Last day for Military Discount.

Farmer's Market in Scripps Ranch Saturday. Cypress Canyon Road, new location (see former posting for exact address). It's at the old Marshall Middle school which is now EBS Elementary School. Open from 9-1 and lot's of food and activities for the kids! It's directly behind the old location. Plenty of parking. Bathrooms. Tables. Music. Fun!

Missing Post and Hours!

I had a great post last night but it disappeared. Where did it go? Hmmmmmmmm...


Anyway, I'll be opening Tuesday and Wednesday morning at 11 (I might be in earlier, like 10:30ish but just in case) due to some errands and a doctor's appointment.

Since my other posting disappeared, just a reminder military discount extended today through Friday and we'll be back at the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market on Saturday. Let me know if I can bring anything specific!

I'm off :)

Farmer's Market

Just a reminder and time/address information.

We have a booth tomorrow, Saturday the 28th (I guess today at this time!) at the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market. Located at E.B. Scripps Elementary School, which has moved to 11778 Cypress Canyon Road (San Diego 92131), the hours are from 9 AM to 1 PM.

I will be bringing a small sampling of our merchandise, as well as fliers and coupons.

So get out and support local merchants this Saturday instead of fighting the ridiculous crowds at the malls!

Hope to see you there.

Holidays and Other News

Yes, they are officially here - the Holidays! Time for crazy family gatherings and stories to create and tell to our children. Cameras will be snapping and video cameras catch all the wrong things (kidding! sort of). Portraits to be taken, given, saved, or preserved. (See below for a great link for your framing needs!)

Fantastic outfits and accessories are at the store. Lots of stuff for gift-giving also. And speaking of giving, in addition to taking my usual donations I am also trying to get some "wish lists" from Becky's House or the YWCA in the store. I'll update with more information as it moves along. Please remember no matter how little you might have, someone out there is also in need. Giving really is the best gift to yourself.

Interested in donating some food items? My fabulous chiropractor (Dr. Jason Shumard) located upstairs in my building (Active Posture- see link below!) is hosting a bin in his office at the request of his Assistant for Mama's Pantry. They are collecting nutritious non-perishables. Mama's Pantry is a part of Mama's Kitchen. If you don't already know about this Charity, go to their web page at http://www.mamaskitchen.org/ and check it out. Dr. Jason is offering people who donate five or more items to be entered in a drawing. I'll post a list of the items in the store or you can contact his office directly for hours and drop-offs at 858-564-7081. And thank you for working on my never ending migraines!

And while your at it, make an appointment! Treat yourself (or a friend) to a healthier body and get rid of some of that chronic pain we mothers wake up to (some of us daily). As a mom, there is no day off or time to rest an injury or heal from an illness. You deserve 15 minutes to devote to your body. It is the little things we have that keep us going. Light a candle, take a bath, do some Pilate's, take a five-minute time-out in your room instead of sending the kids to theirs and visit a nutritionist and chiropractor. Speaking of nutrition, I hope in the next few weeks to get the nutrition questionnaires into the store if anyone is interested in a consultation from a nutritionist! Also working on some (shhhhhh secret - can't post details yet!) organic, homemade products for mom and baby!

In addition to this season of new beginnings, let us remember ourselves as being important. We need to function in order to care for our little ones. Lots of baby steps because we are all strapped for time, but anything we can do we should. Talk to other moms- you would be amazed at what you find out. Someone might need a hot meal or a friend to go to the park with. Take the time to make yourself feel good by getting to know those around you and you never know what you might learn from them that will enrich your life.

Okay, lecture over. Here I am, mind racing with things to do and feeling overwhelmed myself and I am up again late working not pampering myself. But no matter how stressed I am or how crazy my day is, I really try and make it a point to take a few minutes to do something meaningful or helpful to someone else and something to clear my head for a few moments (if only a few moments, I'll take them).

Backtracking...

So, as I have mentioned lots of new items in and more on the way. It is so exciting. Every new thing that comes in I treat as if it is a little gift :)

Here is a sample of some of the sock purses or as I call them hold-em-alls that I now have in the store. I mentioned them several postings ago but couldn't really describe them without a picture so here it is!Great for holding anything that falls to the bottom of your purse (or diaper bag), for gifts to new moms/grandmas or even your kids, and of course cute. Who can't resist baby size socks? You know you all still have to stop when you see a tiny sock!

I also have been busy putting together little outfits and re-designing the store. I still need to decorate it but it is hard when it is still "unfinished". I also currently have separate racks for some Holiday stuff. Of course, most of the stuff is not just Santa Sleepers and Red Velour Dresses (although I have them) but great stuff for pictures, family dinners, winter outings, and more. A lot of the stuff I carry year-round I moved to the rack for ideas. It's great to think about not only using a resale boutique to recycle your old clothing, but how to make good use out of the purchases you make. Here is a little sample of my new "outfit" rack. I mix in some new and resale items in this picture and you can look closely to get a preview of the Bloomin' Beanies I know have in stock! More to come and I can devote a whole other post to some of my new items (so perhaps I should considering the time...). Anyway, how cute is this? Come in, grab an outfit and your set. Well, maybe while you're there you can grab a Melissa and Doug toy for a gift and that sweater you've been meaning to get and a pair of shoes. Just an idea ;)

You can see that cute little diesel shirt in the corner but not the matching shoes! Size 2T and priced to sell. On the other side you can see my dwindling rack of diapees and wipees. Must be about that time for some new orders. So start your shopping- Resale stores are in and I can give you a million reasons why I'm not just any resale store but I'll save that for another post. Those of you who have been in recently know there is so much more to it.

Final note of the night, Fresh Picked Boutique will have a booth at the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market this Saturday. I'll be there with some hand-picked products instead of the store, but it will be open for sales and I'll be there from 2-4 afterwards. I hope it goes well. I'm assuming in this economy a lot of people would rather support locally, save money and not fight the crowds at the mall but I guess we'll have to see. I'll try and get an email mailing out this week with coupons and of course, I'll mention the SR Farmer's Market there also. I will also post again about that as it gets closer to Saturday.

As for hours this week, tomorrow (Wednesday) I will be there working and preparing, etc. I assume it will be a slow day so I probably will just be open from about 11-3 for customers unless I get a call from someone needing some help before Thanksgiving! And I will be closed Thursday and Friday. Friday I'll be working from home so if someone really wants to stop by I might be able to make a quick shopping appointment. Shoot me an email. And then Saturday the above mentioned Farmer's Market.

So, that's all for now. Thanks for reading as always!