Books and Treats!

Today I have my bag packed with books, ready for story time! This is the first time I advertised an event, so I am interested in seeing how it turns out. Hey, gotta do things a few times before you can perfect them so let's just have fun. And some good Dr. Suess books in celebration of his Birthday month!

I was hoping to get more clothes on the shelves and priced, but it's been so busy. However, I do have the spare rack out with items that are inventoried so I can look up the price. But between the craziness of the past few weeks and the web site, things can fall a little behind.

The new stuff from Inky Binky Baby didn't arrive yet, which is a bummer because I am so excited to see the new line (and well, getting new shipments in stock is just exciting. But I still have some great items in stock and well, I probably wouldn't have had the chance to tag them before this afternoon anyway! And I'm probably going to do my See Kai Run order today- so last chance for custom orders!

I do have the new shipment of BabyLegs and new items from Hippie Clippies, as well as some new Melissa and Doug toys. And there are lots of new and resale clothing out so if anyone is interested in shopping while we read... And new styles of diapees and wipees.

This is my first big store event, and I'd like to plan lots more if all goes well . And if it gets a little wild and crazy, that's okay too. If my kids end up coming, it will be a little chaotic- but fun! Thanks again to the Big Chill Frozen Yogurt for the donations! I'll have coupons for them as well. Back to work now. :)

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.

New Pictures and my first Story Hour!

I just sent out an email mailing, but I also like to mention everything here. I will be collecting new items for Becky's House (hopefully I'll have enough in by the 23rd) to make a drop-off at the latest. They are requesting something a little different for their Adopt-a-Family this year. Since there are so many people in need, they aren't taking specific requests, but instead are asking for a gift for a mom, a dad, and one or two children (they are especially low on older children/teen items). Anything would be appreciated, no amount too small. Also, gift cards to Grocery stores or Target, etc. are welcomed.

Wednesday the 17th at 11:30, I'll be trying out my first Story Time. Short notice, but with the cold weather and rain it just might be what you need. I'll bring in some books to read, but please feel free to bring in your family favorite to share. This will be geared towards the younger children because most schools are still in session. It'll be fun. Or crazy. But let's try it out and see how it goes!

Remember to check the holiday hours or call/email until normal hours resume in January.

In addition, I am not taking anymore buying appointments until January because I have a lot to tag and inventory at the moment. That way, when you come in more items will be on hangers for easier browsing.

Back at the Scripps Ranch Farmer's Market on Saturday- this may be our last trip there, at least for awhile. Special requests? Call or email.

I unbelievably still have Holiday outfits and accessories in stock, both resale and used. Excellent items from Janie & Jack to Osh Kosh and even some Carter's sleepers. I also tried to mostly stock items that can be worn more than once, would do well for pictures, and/or could be mixed and matched with other items so you get the most for your money.

New items have arrived! My Melissa and Doug toy shipment and See Kai Run shoes have arrived just in time for gift-giving. I also have plenty of other items for gift- including gift certificates! I can even mail the gift certificates in a festive envelope if you pay over the phone by credit card. Or come in to shop, donate, or read and pick it up then. I'm awaiting more items from Inky Binky Baby but I do have items left. And I'm now carrying non-slip boutique hair clips, bows, and pacifier clips by Hippie Clippies. Here's the pictures of some sample items as promised:

Fresh, Funky and Freakin' cute. I am even wearing them (as well as the clips from the Inky Binky Baby Bloomin' Beanies!). Enjoy! Hope to see some of you in tomorrow even at the short notice for story time. And I hope to see a lot of you in the very near future :)