Mom 'n Dad's Country Store

Uggh! Turn Back Clock Day. OK, will do my best to be happy!

2010-03-14T11:42:00.001-04:00

Yes, it is turn back clock day. Love to hear your thoughts on this day, and IF it affects you, like it affects me! (please be kind on the grammar errors, as yes, I am truly affected by the time change. Mush brain. ugggh!)

Studies show we all are affected in some way. Most not so good (more car accidents was quoted) for about 3 weeks, as our internal clock re-sets. Call it Jet Lag, if you will. Me, I call it "Awful Lag". My internal circadian clock is what many call the "Night Owl Clock". I have always worked best in the evening, and past "bed time". When I was a work out maniac, best time to hit the gym was about 7 pm, after a hard days windshield time of Medical Sales. Get home, nosh a bit, answer emails (work, as this was the most important thing to my life/pre-Spencer), read, and get ready for another day. Most of the time, I would see 1 am roll around, and then make me go to sleep. With this going on (the evening awake and raring to go) for most of my life, well, you can tell Daylight Savings Time is not a fun time for me!! I have tried Melatonin, forcing myself to go to be early. So far does not seem to work. At least for me! So, if you have any hints, love to hear them.

Now, off to make the coffee, as I have been laying in comfy style, working on waking up, and know I will make an effort to get through this time. I know there is a golden good reason for this time change. For me, as I look forward to the benefits of late summer light, which is perfect for us "night owls". Makes these few hard days of adjustment so worth it!

Hugs, Happiness, and here's to Spring ! (had to add the pic of the beautiful Bunny Bowl. Comes in two sizes, and I LOVE both of mine. Tres Adorable! Makes me smile while I adjust to this time change! Keeps a smile in place vs the grumpy bottom face I so feel!)
Mom, aka Carla Jeanne, CJ, Carla, and to my personal long time friends, Jeannie.

Happy Birthday to ME!! Mom that is!!

2010-02-27T22:39:00.000-05:00

Fabulous Fit and F....oops don't want to tell my age just yet...
Hugs to you all.

Dear friends of Mom 'n Dad's Country Store:

This past Thursday was my birthday. In the past, prior to my life as "Mom", my celebrations consisted of getting up with a smile, going to work, and looking forward to visiting with my friends and my special honey. Throw in a really exclusive restaurant with my honey, and a really expensive gift, well, I thought I was in Heaven!!!!

Over the past few years, things muted, but I still looked forward to going out, having the sparkler in the dessert, and having a fuss made in my honor. Well, it seems to me that my birthday celebrations have changed. A lot!

Since I left the outside workforce to purposefully become a stay at home mom (and have a store to supplement our income), things have been changing in our celebrations. Not such that I have been forced (albeit our cash flow has changed drastically) to do things differently, but do them because I have discovered that my values have changed. No, not the core values of what is right or wrong, but the values of how I value my time with my two boys (hubby and son). As I have struggled this past year in finding my place at home, leaving my relentless climb up the corporate ladder, a need to find who I really am. To defining me.   And along the way, note that my values too have changed.

Some things that have changed I have found to be funny, sometimes frustrating, and most of the time fun.

Funny to me now, is that I don't even think twice about leaving the house with out any trace of make up, my hair thrown back in a "tail" and my clothes, well, not "picked out" but rather thrown on. Not that I have become that frumpy house mom. No, rather I find it funny that I wasted all that time worrying about how I looked, when I now know, no one really out there cares! (I do, however, look forward to when my hubby comes home from work, and he finds me cute. Or when I get "dressed up" in my good jeans, cute top, and acutually take the time to make myself, in his eyes, gorgeous.)

Frustrating for my hubby: I now know why I had a cleaning person. I don't do it well. At all. My husband just "knew" that when I left the work world, the house would be clean 24/7. Well, it is soooo not!!! Not that I don't have the tools to do so. I just LOVE my last splurge of the Dyson Animal, knowing I had better get something that worked since we have two rather large dogs, and three cats! Plus at that time, I still had no idea what financial decreases would really mean.

So....getting back to my cleaning, well if it isn't evident with this blog, well, I keep getting distracted, and so easily. Not that I don't enjoy dusting with the newest and greatest "dusters" but I find I really need to be on the phone to do even a decent job!

When I was watching Julie and Julia, a line in the movie left me smiling, and agreeing totally: "I have ADD, and that is why I am just horrible at cleaning!" I/Mom, could not agree more with that statement. I have self diagnose that I have ADD, otherwise why do I get so distracted in such a short period of time? When I was in the work world/ outside sales world, I was in many venues, many buildings, driving from here to there, and constantly, things changed all around me. Here I am now, with the 1800 square feet of a colonial 1960's home, and I keep getting off track!

My only hope, is that either my hubby will learn to lower his standards, or I finally figure out some kind of a routine. Fly Lady Digest couldn't even keep me on track. So if you are reading this out there, please...PLEASE!! if you have any suggestions, (remember, I have ADD, for real, that is) send. I look forward to them.

Now onto the most important revelation, the fun. As stated in the beginning of this blog, my usual Birthday Celebration consisted of being out, being in venues with many people, and feeling that I was the most special one out there. That certainly did not happen this birthday. And all occurred because of my value change, and my decision!

As the day went on, I attempted some cleaning, and took care of the customers who visited and purchased in Mom 'n Dad's Country Store. As I did so, snow fell quietly outside, but not enough to make the roads messy.

My husband has left from home at 6:45 and would soon be home, about 5:30. As I waited for him to come home, I realized what had been nagging me all day. I knew we were to go out to a great restaurant, celebrate in the usual style of the past few years as a Mom, but something just was not setting well.

Spencer played, and Dad called, telling me he was on his way home, was picking up the cake (my Costco request of Carrot Cake) and for me to go and get ready. His voice did not sound tired, but in my heart, I knew he had to be.

So I asked him one thing. Would he mind as he was at Costco, to pick up a pizza? He paused than asked "why do you want me to pick up the pizza, honey? We have plans to go out to dinner."   I shared with him, if he did not mind that is, I felt I'd have more fun just being at home. Being with the three of us, and enjoying a relaxing evening. After he questioned me a couple of times, he realized I was not doing this for him. I was doing this because I really wanted to, and the rest of the evening, he was all smiles. Me too! Yes, my values of family, the time with the family had changed, and I now know who I am! I am a Mom, a wife, and so many other things. No longer do I care about the "winning ways of sales" or that I need to surpass any quota given.

No. My life now is as a Mom, a shopkeeper. And I am the most blessed person on earth!

So that is how I celebrated my last birthday. I expect as the years go by, things will change again, as Spencer grows up and moves on with his life. I do know, however, I have finally, after all these years, found myself. And I can't be more happy for it!

Hugs and Happiness, and may your heart be filled with His Blessings.

Mom.

Just had to share!!!!!!

2010-02-27T21:49:00.000-05:00

Some things to share!!!

Dear momndadscountrystore,

I just received my package today! I wanted to take an extra minute to thank you for all the extra little details in the order that you did. The coaster is cute, how you wrapped the package was so nice, and of course all the messages to let me know the details of the order. It's all appreciated! Thanks again!
Melissa O.

Wow!!! the above was sent to me today from a customer that received her items, and wanted to send more than a line in feedback. I thank you, Melissa for your wonderful words (already sent a personalized email too), and hope that we continue to be blessed with customers such as you.

I will be busy in the next couple of days taking pictures, and getting more into our store and catalog. I am finally caught up in shipping, so I feel a sense of relief. With help from Jenny, my most awesome store assistant, I feel as though I can ensure growth in volume with out disappointing my customers, and keeping with their expectations.

Hugs to all, as going to turn in/relax a bit.

Mom, of Mom 'n Dad's Country Store

Pics

2010-02-01T17:34:00.000-05:00

Waiting for my first blogger comments!

2010-01-31T20:39:00.000-05:00

Well, have been packaging, shipping and shopping. Plus we went as a family to Ford Field on a Boy Scout event. Boy was it fun!!! Have a pic of my honey's in the press section of Ford Field. Had a blast.

Well, still waiting for my first blogger follower or commentator. "Will that be you? she asked with a inquisitive smile?

If you are the first blogger, offering free shipping. OK, let's see if anyone bites?

To see our wonderful items to make your life more fun, please visit: www.momndadscountrystore.com.

Looking forward to see if anyone will take up this offer! Must have added words in our blogging site.

Hugs to all, and to all a good night!

Carla, Steve, and Spencer. (aka Mom 'n Dad, plus son)

The Snowman Age

2010-01-16T17:01:00.000-05:00

Happy Snowman time!!

Mid January and have been busy packaging and shipping out more than 87 orders from the past two weeks. Had to lay off having a sale this weekend, as wanted to:

a) ensure all packages are shipping out prior to getting more orders.

b) Add more items to the store that have been sitting around lonely, looking for "forever homes".

c) Research my: potential additional Vendors, and Wares; potential added lines.

d) Get OUT OF THE BASEMENT!! as this is where my "home office, and warehouse is located.

e) Most importantly, spend time with my Son, who thinks I spend too much time in the basement with this venture (which is soooo true!).

Currently, Spencer is making a "make do" with a box from Primitives by Kathy, a fabulous vendor staple for Mom 'n Dad's Country store. I am blessed with large boxes delivered right to my door. Since Spencer is a little inventor, as well as builder, he is having much fun with the relatively large box. Not large enough to create a domain, but definitely big enough to cut, to color, and create. Since my services are not currently needed in the building and creative market, he has given me time to catch up on things, like this blog, my friends, and have some me time. The added bonus of this blog is...I AM OUT OF THE BASEMENT!!

Well, I am going to post a couple of pictures of our recent activity, so you can see a little bit of what has been going on. Henry Ford Museum and the Lego Exhibit, items I've added to the store, and maybe random. Since I am having me time, the most fun I have is creating, and enjoying.

Bye for now. Will be interesting if I get any followers, as is that not the purpose for a blog?

Hugs, from Mom, of Mom 'n Dad's Country Store.

Sunday Post Christmas, and what sales can do for the store!!

2009-12-27T13:41:00.000-05:00

To state the obvious, have been away from Blogging for a bit. Also, to add a bit of revenue, have added Ad's. Sorry if that offends, but my life as of today is to keep being a stay at home mom, as find being with my son, the most important thing to create a long line of successes for his life time!

OK, so much has occurred since the last post. Oct: Birthday of Spencer, as now is an eight year old! Birthday party at Lazerr Quest, soooo much fun!, trip to see the inner workings of the Lion's Stadium, Halloween as the family from Star Wars, fun times with friends. Then to November with all leading up to Thanksgiving, and the store shopping for more items.

December, the prep for Christmas, parties, a potential move to Texas, (not now), and Santa time, mixed in with Family, Friends, and the Reason for Christ-mas in the first place!

So now, will be a bit more diligent in writing things that are of interest. Like not boring writing as I am now.

OK, well off for now. to package up the sales from yesterday, and then prep for more items to add into the store.

Bye , and God's Blessings to you,

Mom 'n Dad's Country Store

First Day of 2nd Grade today...and LOVE Collins Painting!!

2009-09-08T21:07:00.004-04:00

Today, (this am) Mom 'n Dad got up super early (early for Mom, since she's been up late, of late, getting this store up to snuff (shhhh don't tell Dad, ' cause he thinks he's doing all the work.!)) to get ready to get ready our son for his 1st Day of Second Grade.

Dad ran out to get milk, and by the time he got back, Mom had coffee going, and our son up and Spiffy ready for school. He looked absolutely adorable. Mom seriously thinks the back pack is too big for him, but he insisted on this one, and it was so reasonably priced during one of those summer sales, Mom caved.

Anyways, all three of us went out to the bus, took tons of pictures, and ushered son onto the bus. As the bus pulled away to the next stop, Mom 'n Dad piled giggling into the car, and quickly made it to school, were WE could see all of our friends from School. Yes, the adults at this school just love to get there pre-bus arrival, chat, catch up, and just have a great time.

Bus arrived, (more pictures) we walked our kids to their classroom, said hey to the teacher, and got them settled. Took more pictures too.

Well, afterward, some went inside to "tears and cheers" coffee clutch. while others, as we did, rush off to do things at home.

Waiting for us were three very large boxes from one of our manufacturers. We get our items from a various group of companies. We shoot for the manufacturer, as we can get the "best price" to share with our customers, and we have wholesale distributors, who are great as no minimums in case we need to fill in a whole quickly, with reasonable prices to boot. Well, one of our favorites is Collins Painting. They are wonderful, fabulous, artistic, and have some of the nicest Wood and fiber items we can find.

Getting back to the original intent of our waiting boxes, when we opened them, we could not believe how beautiful the items were. So we took a few pictures, and will be posting more in our store for sale. The pictures really do NOT do them justice as to how lovely is each item, and until you get one in your hands, you will just have to let the pictures and our feedback due. Anyways, we can not wait to get the new items on. Also a few pictures to add on the Christmas Magnets all ready available for purchase.

Well, off for now, to ship, list, etc.

Thank you again for reading our post. We hope you enjoyed our little bit of news, go to our store, browse, and just plain enjoy.

Hugs, Blessings, and may you have a chance to smile today, as we have. It makes Mom's skin glow, and her eyes pucker.

PS, here is a bit of today's feedback:

cute, cute, cute store, great item, wonderful sellers....I will be back for more

Buyer:

m@.... ( 150)

Sep-08-09 17:25

Primitive Saltbox sitter Blossom Bucket "H is for Home" (#260459144247)

perfect transaction! fun people to Ebay with as described, excellent packaging	Buyer: m@...... ( 150)	Sep-08-09 17:25
Primitive European Retro Large Glass Butter Dish n lid (#260463432428)	US $6.74	View Item
Thoughtful & caring 5 star sellers, I will shop again. Thank you.	Buyer: pu........( 16)	Sep-08-09 14:07
Primitive Folk Art Wood Fall HARVEST Pumpkin Block (#260462325401)

Late night, but usual

2009-08-31T02:42:00.002-04:00

I know it's late, but that seems to be the usual these days for me. Monday...ok, Tuesday, I will be setting my alarm to 8:30...I have to go slow here.... so I can start to get up at an earlier time.

What you might say>???? an earlier time/???? Well, I have been so excited about the store, that it is easily 3:30 am before I even head to bed.

It's late now, and what I'm doing is trying to find what to add to the store.

So, if you are a fan of Mom 'n Dad's Country Store, (or not a fan...what ever..) please let me know what you think you'd like to see in the store!!!

I am currently lookin at Rose Hipps...cause I love them. Thoughts??? Let me know.

Any ways, I think the dogs need to get outside one last time, so going to sign off for the night. Hugs. And if you are a follower of this blog, note there WILL be a private sale for my first customers. Ordered the cards to be mailed. Yes, spending a little now, (not reflected in the price of the products to you!!!) in hopes to really get this store off it's feet.

Also,,,, final note. Will be sending a little something in with the new orders for the next couple of mos. EXTRA! An appreciation of your business!

;~) hugs to all, and to all a great night. TTFN And off she goes....

The Start of our Blog!

2009-08-30T12:47:00.000-04:00

Today: The first Day of the blog. We at Mom 'n Dad's Country Store have set up a place for our comments (mom is the talkative type) as well as YOURS! Please use this place to discuss your thoughts on, well Primitive Country Finds, and tips, or what ever.
I've (Mom) have added a pic of us, so when you visit our store, you will know who is really on the other end.
Well, off to wrap and ship!
Mom, of Mom 'n Dad's Country Store ;~)