Casual Cargo Bag – Not Just a Diaper Bag

First, my “baby” has turned 30 years old so I definitely don’t need a diaper bag BUT I do LOVE this bag.  I have actually been using it every day for the last few weeks.  It is AMAZING!

For those of you who have been around Thirty One for awhile, you may remember the original Casual Cargo Bag… it was actually the #1 choice by moms in 2014.  Don’t believe me, check out www.babycenter.com.  I know you are wondering why did it go away, right?    Like all good things, it went away and came back even more AMAZING!  How can you improve on great, right?  Well, we did!  

The NEW Casual Cargo Bag is part of Baby by Thirty One.  So, it is officially a diaper bag but it is so much more! It’s an easy-to-wear, everyday canvas cargo tote for anyone who’s on the go. Do you commute to work?  How about travel to practices with the kids?  Spend a lot of time on the road playing mom taxi or for work?  This bag is a great solution!

Let’s start with its extended top handle straps and detachable, adjustable strap which gives you the versatility to wear it as a shoulder bag or a crossbody bag.  It is in a cotton/canvas fabric with a polyester lining.   The crossbody strap let’s you keep your hands free when chasing after the kids.  It has two exterior pockets with magnetic closures which is the perfect spot for your keys or maybe the baby’s binky.  I have my business cards in one along with a note pad to gather potential customers contact information.  I know you are wonder, why didn’t I say these pockets were good for your cell phone.  Because there is actually a cell phone pocket on the outside which will fit most phones including some of the new larger ones.   No need to go digging around in your bag when you are juggling the baby.

Let’s move to the inside which has multiple pockets and LOTS  of space.  My favorite new feature is an interior thermal pocket with a leak lock lining.  This is a great spot to keep a snack and a bottle of water.  I haven’t put it to the test to see how much it can hold but there is quite a bit of room.  It did hold enough snacks/ light food for a recent vendor event.

Also on the side is two flat pockets AND 2 elastic side pockets which are great for bottles or containers of snacks.  Top it off with a zipper closure and you are ready to hit the road with a stylish, yet functional diaper bag.  Did I mention you can have it personalized too?  The best part is when you don’t need a diaper bag any more, it is still a GREAT bag to use every day.  It is roomy but not HUGE.

The next question is – “Is it washable?” I have to admit the company does not recommend washing this item.  They do recommend wiping it with a damp cloth using mild soap only and then air drying.  I will tell you I have customers who have tossed this into the washer on a gentle cycle and air dried it who give it rave reviews when all was said and done.

At a cost of $68, this durable, fun, functional and stylish bag is the perfect gift for the new or soon to be mom.  How about for the college student or even the work at home mom.  If you want to see this product up close – contact me for a product experience (one-on-one product showing) or have a home party where you can get all the things you will want to keep the new nursery neat and tidy…

Whose ready to shop??? Have a ThirtyOne-derful day!

Tote-Ally Awesome Fall

 

I know there is a mixed batch of feelings this morning.  Some are jumping up and down celebrating the fact TODAY is the day kids go back to school.  Some mommas are crying to see their babies go off to school for the first time.  I used to always struggle with the first day “back to school” when Belinda was younger.  I was grateful for the routine her being in school brought but I missed the togetherness we had during the summer.

So, this is the perfect time for some “ME” time. I know, you are thinking… “I have NO time”. Money is tight –  school supplies and clothes cost a fortune!

What if I told you, you could earn some money to pay those school shopping credit card bills AND save some money to pay CASH for those holiday gifts?  What if you could earn money while chauffeuring the kids to activities (NO, I don’t mean an Uber driver) or sitting at the field while they practice?  What would you do with an extra $300? Or are you looking for some time away from the kids?  Maybe you just want to shop at a 40% discount and earn FREE products?  Yup, I have an answer to all of those questions….

First, there is the two options on the enrollment kit.  You can use it to kick off your business or you can do your holiday shopping in one easy step.  If you decide to kick off your business (of course I will help you); you can not only earn 25% commission BUT you can also earn FREE products or Disney Bucks or Visa Gift Cards.  I know, crazy, right???

If earning some money, gift cards or free product doesn’t sound good……….. you could be a  hostess and get some FREE and discounted products.  I know, still no time, right?

What if I said YOU could get some ME time AND some FREE products at the same time?  Say what???  How about you and 3 friends join me for coffee (my treat)? Or lunch at your favorite restaurant?  Working and can’t get away?  What if I parked my car in the parking lot and everyone came to check out my “trunk” to see all of the goodies on their lunch break?  Are you a social media junkie?  What if you just carried a catalog with you and sent all of your friends to an online Facebook party?

With Thirty One’s September Customer Special you (or your friends) can pick YOUR favorite product to get a discount on!  I have all THREE of these products and absolutely LOVE them.  No, I don’t have to say it because I am a consultant, I say it because I use all 3 of them!  The Colorblock Tote in Olive has become my everyday bag.  The Around Town Tote, I use when going to meetings along with my Super Swap it Pocket.  The All About the Benjamin Wallet is one of our top sellers over and over again.  Here is what you can earn in the month of September just by sharing your favorite products with friends and family: 

So whether you live near me or you just follow my blog or are Facebook friends, we can party together so YOU can get some FREE products.  Trust me, I have heard it all…. no one buys when I have a party, no one comes when I have a party…..Why?  Because they figure it is the same “sales pitch” all of the time.  What if you had a theme or I could show you some simple solutions to make your crazy life a little easier?  Think about it…. what could it hurt especially with a Facebook party.  You invite your friends and I do all of the work.    What do you say…

Okay, I know some of you just like to shop!  You have already gotten your fall catalog, circled what you want and are ready to place your order.   So, click the link and head to my website and place your order.  WHAT?  You don’t have a catalog to circle your favorite items in? Click the catalog on the right hand side to request your copy!  I’m going to squirrel for a moment… Do you remember getting the Sears (or Toys R Us) Christmas catalog and going through circling everything you wanted Santa to bring?  I know I am dating myself BUT you can do the same thing with your catalog.  Then give it your hubby, your significant other, your kids or whoever buys you gifts.  I will help to make sure YOU get the gift you want for your birthday, anniversary or the holidays.

So, whether you are interested in starting a business, getting free products or just do a little shopping…..I want to be your “bag lady”.  No job is too big or too small…..

Have a ThirtyOne-derful day!

Penny Wise, Dollar Foolish

Penny wise and dollar foolish is a saying I have heard since I was little.  I will admit, it has been me on occasion – okay, maybe more occasions then I care to admit!  🙂

Halfway through the year and starting a new fiscal year at Thirty One this month is when review my goals and my finances.  Doing it mid-year check helps me keep things in balance or get back on track if I have wavered.

Life with MS (#MSwillnotdefineme) has been interesting to say the least.  No excuses, just the realization processing things doesn’t work unless I have a system.  A system to stay on track with bills.  A system to work my business.  Admittedly, the the money system faltered some in the first few months but I have grabbed the bull by the horns and am back on track with a new plan.

I hate to admit I am still learning money matters in my 60’s, but there are a few things I wish I had learned in my 20’s.  Learning is an ongoing process and I am determined not to give up on my goal.

#1 A bigger and better job doesn’t mean you get to spend more.  By keeping your costs the same when you increase your salary you’ll be able to save some.  I always thought more money meant I could spend more.  Silly me!

#2 Never spend more than what comes in.  And limit your cards to the lowest amount possible. This has been the toughest for this recovering addict to conquer. 

#3 Pay off any debt first.  Pay your credit card debt as soon as possible, those high interests won’t be doing you any good. Then once they are paid off DON”T use them anymore.

 

#4 Student loans on autopilot.  Students loans usually have a really small interest rate so make regular, steady payments to pay off your loan and it’ll soon be a thing of the past.  Check out too if you are eligible for a “forgiveness program”.  Make 120 payments on time & the balance of your loan is forgiven.  Works for the kids but not the parents.

#5 Build a back-up.  YES, saving is still important even if you have debt.  Make sure you always have a few hundred set aside for unexpected costs and bills.

#6 Insuring yourself is essential.  A crashed laptop, unforeseen doctors bill or stolen bike can wreak financial havoc if you’re not insured. The cost per month will pay off in the long run for any unexpected mishaps.

#7 Set long term goals to help you focus on what you really want. Figure out how much you’re gonna need and start saving now.

#8 Monetize your talent if you can.  Write blogposts, take photographs or try to monetize your special skills as (additional) income.  I have been a crafter for as long as I can remember.  I just wish I had of saved some of that money.

 

#9 Think about retirement.  This is especially important if you are your own boss.  Sadly, I learned too late it’s essential to put away money for the future.

#10 Lastly, here is a marvelous piece of advice given by StickleyMan on Thought Catalog. It’s reaaaaaally good.

“Take some more chances. You know that idea that’s been ruminating in the back of your mind for years? That one that doesn’t have anything to do with your job or your mortgage. That one that falls outside your schema of living and routine and that you shrug off as some immature or impractical idea; as just some silly fantasy. Maybe it’s a crazy business idea or a trip to go live in a hut in India for three months or to breed Pygmy hippos or to become a juggling street performer. Whatever it is, explore it. Maybe even try it. I don’t mean take a stupid, life-threatening risk. I’m not suggesting a trying a lifestyle of meth addiction and bare-knuckle Fight Clubs. But something outside your comfort zone. Try it. Maybe you’ll fail miserably at it. But just try it. Because in about a decade when you’re responsible for more things and more people, you won’t be able to. And you’ll find yourself in a self-imposed mental prison of ‘what-ifs’. And take it for someone who didn’t because I was too scared, too embroiled in my own insecurities and addictions, and so heavily conditioned to fear failure – you’ll wish you did.

Any cash lessons you learned in the past year? Tell us in the comments, we’d love to hear how you spend and save.

Have a ThirtyOne-derful day!

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

Thank you Janet Kinkade the creator of JK by Thirty-One jewelry for today’s tips. Her ultimate passion is to inspire women and help them recognize their own beauty and potential. Read more on Janet’s blog, and follow her on Instagram!

I love how we set aside a whole day to honor and celebrate the women who raised us. My mom is an amazing mother. She is selfless yet strong – and the most beautiful woman I know!

Mother’s Day holds a special place in my heart because of my own daughter – Belinda.  I remember several Mother’s Days in the past, waking up to handmade gifts she had poured her hearts into making. These moments remind me motherhood is a gift and my favorite job of all despite the fact my “baby” is all grown up.

Thirty-One makes it so easy and fun to find the perfect gift for all of the special women in your life! Here are a few ideas for you:

Save the day with a fun and funny “New Mom Survival Kit”

New moms get so many gifts for baby, why not take this opportunity to put together a cute and creative gift just for her? Help ease her transition – and give her a little chuckle at the same time – with a sweet “survival kit” tucked into a reusable Zipper Pouch or Swap-It Pocket, along with a note explaining each item:

• A healthy snack to keep her energy up!
• Hand sanitizer so she stays healthy. (Moms can’t get sick!)
• Dry shampoo, because regular showers are a thing of the past.
• Yummy-smelling candle to help create calm when she needs some alone time.
• Snickers® bar and Laffy Taffy® to keep her sense of humor.
• Bag of marbles to replace the ones she’ll lose!
• Rubber bands to remind her that flexibility is key!

Take something off her plate with an all-in-one meal kit

You can pack an entire meal inside one of our gorgeous totes that Mom will love to use long after the meal is over! Put all the ingredients for a delicious dinner in a personalized Zip-Top Organizing Tote or Catch-All Bin – or in one of our new Summer Essentials like the Summer Fun Caddy or In the Clear Tote. You can even add some hand-painted soup bowls, a matching kitchen towel and potholder – and don’t forget a bottle of her favorite wine!

Why not try one of my family’s favorite meals: Taco Soup! Most of the ingredients are in cans, so it’s perfect for packing.

Taco Soup
Ingredients:
3 cans of beans (I mix red beans and black beans)
2 cans of diced tomatoes
1 can of whole kernel corn
1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 package of taco seasoning
1 package of ranch dressing mix
32 oz. of chicken broth
2 cups of cooked ground beef

Directions: Combine all of the ingredients in a slow cooker, and cook on high for 4 hours. (You can cook on low for 8 hours, instead, if you’re going to be gone all day.)

Express your love and gratitude with custom home décor

If you’re looking for a personalized gift that will last long enough to become a family keepsake, look no further than our custom Statement Canvas Pillows, Statement Canvas Wall Art and wooden Close to Home Tray! These gifts can be a creative way to show off her Personality, talk about her Passions and inspire others with her Purpose as a mother. Check out our 3 Ps of Personalization for tips to make a beautiful gift for her home that she’ll always treasure!

Stay close to her heart with a mother’s necklace

Our new Charm Catcher Necklace is the perfect way to design Mom her very own meaningful – and wearable – keepsake! Create a beautiful piece of jewelry (moms LOVE jewelry!) that she can put on every day to remind her of all the joys of motherhood.

Start with our Charm Catcher Necklace in gold or silver tone, then add:

• Family Roots Keepsake Charm, because her family means everything
• Two-tone Wax Seal Charm that represents her number of children
• Round Initial Charm with the initial of the family’s last name
• A Celebration Birthstone Charm in her birth month, or those of her kids or grandkids

What special gift are you getting your mom?  Share it with us, we won’t tell…

Have a ThirtyOne-derful day!

Santa Bundle Challenge

Are you starting to stress about holiday shopping?  Are you worried about your holiday budget?  I have a solution for you….

Check out these FOUR bundles available for a limited time…. You may be wondering why it is a challenge, right?  I’m not one for usually sharing about challenges but Thirty One’s Home Office has challenged us to sell 10 of these AMAZING bundles by December 11th.  Do you think I can do it?

Bundle #1 features our BIGGEST seller, the large utility tote.  A great gift for anyone on your holiday list.  Uses range from grocery shopping, to the beach, to organizing the car or storage.  The Littles Carry Alls are so much cuter than a gift bag.  Add some homemade treats or a gift card and you have the perfect gift.

Bundle #2 is for the traveler on your list or maybe a dancer or cheerleader. The Hanging Traveler Case will hold full size bottles standing up to eliminate spilling.  Some have used it to carry their Bible or planner with their iPad.  The Glamour Case will hold your make-up or maybe those essential oils you need when traveling.  The Mini Zipper Pouch has so many uses – make-up, first aid kit, epi pen holder and the list goes on.  Easy for kids to carry their “stuff” in too.

Bundle #3 features our personalization options.  Did you know 90% of Thirty One’s products can be personalized?  Perfect for those who have unusual names or different spellings for every day names.  Our Canvas Pillow Cover is a great way to celebrate the holidays or as a gift for a new home owner.  This bundle combined with the Littles Carry All and the Mini Zipper Pouch for a total of THREE personalized presents for one great price.

Bundle #4 is my favorite.  We all know a “girl on the go” whether it is a college student getting ready to graduate, a career women, a business owner or a mom.  This is a great set given together but can also be broken up into 3 great gifts.  The Around Town Tote is one of my go-to bags.  This classy bag has lots of room while looking fashionable.  Add the Savvy Sleeve to hold files, up to a 15″ laptop or iPad and planner.  A nice gift for the man on your list who juggles a lot of papers on the road.  The Super Swap It Pocket is the big sister of our Swap It Pocket.  The larger version has handles which allows it to be used on its own.  Organize files, a mini diaper bag for the car, a Bible case, a snack bag or even a purse.

These four bundles are available for a limited time only.  To place your order, CLICK HERE. Need help with your order, feel free to text me at 609-457-4249 or send an email to HopeWs31@gmail.com

Don’t let stressing over holiday gifts ruin your holiday spirit….

Have a ThirtyOne-derful day!