Hairclip Display

After posting yesterday, I realized I should have let you know what I do with my hair clips. I use to put them on my boards but now I clip them on to ribbon that I hang from the poles that extend out from the garment rack.

The ribbons are pretty empty in this pic because I sold a ton of hair clips at my last party, but it helps you get the idea. At the end of the show just untie the ribbons from the poles and pack away for the next show!

In the picture you can also see that I have attached pink foam to the bottom rung.  I cut a slit in the foam and use Velcro ties to attach it to the pole.  When I travel to and from shows I collapse the top part of the rack and separate the necklaces from each other.  I also throw a lightweight blanket over the top.  It is an easy way to transport your display.  

www.paparazziaccessories.com/1975

Garment Rack Displays

Another easy way to display neckable garment rack. I got mine at Wal-Mart for $15. The next thing you need are shower curtain rings. The dollar store is a great place to buy those. Attach the tag from a necklace set to a shower curtain ring and voila! Easy display.

www.papparazziaccessories.com/19759

Paparazzi Accessories Display

Today I am going to post how I made my 1st display boards.  I say first because many people make peg board displays that look fantastic, but are beyond my budget right now.  These are a great alternative for when you are first starting out but want displays fast.

Supplies:

 2 pieces black poster board, black duct tape, glittery tape (I got mine at Hobby Lobby), 

Velcro straps, and 7/8" cup hooks.

Step 1:

Duct tape two pieces of poster board together.

Leave about 1'' of space between the boards so you can fold together.

Step 2:

Duct tape other side.

Step 3:

Cut glitter tape in half and place over the duct tape.

You do not need to leave the space with the glitter tape since we cut it down the middle.

Apply the tape to all sides of the board.

Step 4:

Insert cup hooks about 1'' apart. Just push them through the board.

This one is for necklaces so I only put them at the top.

Step 5: (Sorry, I forgot to take a picture)

On the side of the boards cut a slit at the top and bottom at equal distances.  

You can then use the Velcro straps to keep the boards closed when folded.  Use the pink foam from your shipments in between and you won't have to take off your jewelry between shows!

Here is the display with necklaces on the hooks.  

I then took the hair clips and clipped them on to the top of the board. 

The only thing I would change on the boards is the glittery tape.  It hardly sticks and I find myself having to glue it down repeatedly!  You can keep the black duct tape or use a different color.  Duct tape sticks much better!  

I also have a garment rack that I have started using.  I will show you how I set that up in my next post.

I hope you enjoyed this one!

www.paparazziaccessories.com/19759

www.facebook.com/paparazzijewelryfor5bystephanie

The New Me

It has been ages since I last wrote.  Do I still run?  Yes.  Is it often? No
So what do you do?  I am a busy Mom that started a new business.

I am now a Paparazzi Independent Consultant #19759.  We offer jewelry and hair accessories for $5!  We also have a little diva's line for $1.   I am really excited about this opportunity.  The items really do sell themselves and I hope that all goes well.  Here are a few pics of some of the items I carry.

Please follow me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/paparazzijewelryfor5byStephanie

I will post photos there often.  The company website is www.paparazziaccessories.com/19759

Check us out!

Today's Gratitude

1. I am grateful for sunshine and fresh air.
2. I am grateful for great friends.
3. I am grateful for a warm cup of coffee and a good book.

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My First Run

Today I went on my first run since the marathon. It was a beautiful day, the sun was shining and the temp was perfect. I went 1.5 miles in 18 minutes. It felt a little strange at first. The clothes were just a little uncomfortable and the shoes felt a little tight. After I got moving though it felt great. I missed having the time to myself. I realized how much I missed running. I am already plotting when I can fit in my next run. It might have to be on a treadmill but I am going to make it happen.

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My New Gratitude Journal

As I said in my last post I have been feeling a little Blah lately.  That hasn't really changed, except that I am getting crabby as well.  I know I need to change that so I am going to follow the lead set by some other bloggers and and blog what I am grateful for each day. 

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
1. I am grateful for my 3 children that make me laugh everyday.
2. I am grateful for my job that always seems to get me out of the house just as my children stop making me laugh.  :)
3. I am grateful that I have things to be grateful for.

Happy Friday Everyone!

Blah

Blah, that pretty somes up my feelings on running lately.  I have made no effort at all to run since the marathon.  Last night I had it in my head that I was going to go running this morning with my training group (they are still getting together on Saturday mornings), but I never even bothered to set my alarm clock before I went to bed.  It would have been a beautiful morning for a run too, but my head just isn't in it anymore.  I really need some motivation....anybody got any good ideas?

10-10-10

I have been delaying my update on the race because I really just didn't know how to put in to words how I was feeling.  Today though I wrote an email to my recipe group and the words just flowed.  Allow me to copy and paste that email for you....

The heat during the marathon was brutal. I was doing really well for a while, but around mile 18 I didn't have too much left in me. From that point on the miles had a lot more walking then running, but I made it through. I was never so grateful to make the turn before the final bridge that led to the finish line. You hear the announcer saying, "You're a part of Chicago Marathon history! You're not just a runner, you're a finisher, you're a marathoner!" Heavens. I somehow had enough in me to take off like a crazy woman and run like mad to the finish line! My Dad would have been proud!



I wish I could find the words to capture the experience of running the Chicago Marathon. In some ways, it was absolutely enormous--important, life-changing, emotional. And at the very same time, it was just one foot in front of the other, trusting the training. I would do it again in a heart beat. I loved running through all the different neighborhoods, seeing all the crazy costumes and the people watching. It was fun running by the United Center, dissapointed I didn't see any of my Blackhawks there. :) I wish I could relive running by the crowds by Moody Church, they were the best at cheering and encouraging us along the way. I think we all need a cheering section like that in our lives.


Ben and Trinity (my husband and daughter) came in to watch along with my sister and her husband. My brother ran with me and we got to see them at the 5k mark and around mile 10. I think it helped knowing I was going to see them along the route. I only wish I could have seen them a little more, it was just too hot for poor Trinity. When we found them after the race, she was crying and hiding in the shade with my sister. I gave her my wet towel to wipe her face and she drank more of my Gatorade than I did. The priorities of a Mom coming before the priorities of running.


Afterwards, my Mom threw us a perfect party with pizza and cake. During the race all I wanted was an ice cold Coke and I finally got it there.


I was a little sore in my knee and and my back, but I was able to walk and required no BenGay :) he he.

Would I do it again? I would. It was a great experience, and I'm thankful for every step. Would I encourage someone else to do it? Absolutely yes. I knew it would be hard, and it was harder than I thought. But I knew it would be amazing, and it was even more amazing than I could have imagined.

I finished in 6:07:28.  I was hoping I would have been a little faster, but it was impossible with the heat.  I was just glad I finished though and hope to do better next year.

It's not too late to donate to Imerman Angels.  If you can spare a few dollars please do so at www.firstgiving.com/stephanierea 

Thank you to all of you for your kinds words of encouragment and support along the way.  I couldn't have done it without you.

My Medal

Marathon update coming soon. At least now you know I finished!

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It's Marathon Morning

45 minutes until my alarm should go off, but I am wide awake. I had about 5 hours of sleep. More than I thought I would.
Many emotions are running in my head right now. I keep thinking of my Dad right now, wondering what he might say or think. I know I will have my brother running with me today, but I am pretty sure I will have an angel too. I love you Daddy!

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Marathon Weekend Is Here!

I am on the train right now heading in to Chicago to go to the marathon expo. I have my oldest daughter T with me and we will be meeting my brother Jon downtown.
He says we will be at the expo for 4 hours! Seriously! 4 HOURS! I am thinking that is a little extreme, but he is the marathon expert. This will be his 12th. I am looking forward to being among fellow runners and getting my bib! Who knew I would get excited about a bib!

Anyways...I am ready for the race to begin. The nerves are starting though, I have little bit of a tummy ache and I keep worrying about all the minor details. T keeps telling me to take a deep breath and relax. I am glad I have her with me.

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Can You Help?

The final days before the marathon are here and so are the last days of fundraising. I am looking to reach the $500 mark. Can you spare just $5 to donate to Imerman Angels? I am hoping to get 50 people to donate this small amount and have it add up to a large amount. That many people will help put me over my goal.
Will you be willing to help make a huge difference with just $5?
www.firstgiving.com/stephanierea

Thankyou in advance for your help!

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12 Days and Counting

I am ready and very anxious. I wish the day would get here faster.
I haven't been able to run since the 21st. Life has been so busy, I have no idea if I will be able to run again before this Saturday. The weather is beautiful outside right now, I wish I could take advantage of it.

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21 More Days!

The final long run has been completed and there are only 21 days until the marathon.  Am I worried if I can go the distance?  Heck no!  I am worried about what I should wear and wear am I going to put my cliff shot blocks and should I buy a race belt that holds the race bib?  All very important questions right? 

I know for sure that I am going to wear my Imerman Angels singlet.  I need to decide if I should wear my baggy, comfy running shorts that don't look fashionable at all or the cute running skirt?  I have never worn the running skirt for a distance longer than 7 miles.  It didn't fail me then, so it shouldn't fail me at 26 miles.  I gotta look cute for my photos!

I love cliff shot blocks. I have used them on every training run and will use them on race day.  I have been putting them in my giant pocket that attaches to my water belt.  I don't plan on wearing the water belt since there are water stations, but wear do I put my blocks?  Should I buy the race belt so I have a place to put the blocks or just wear the water belt.  Then I can pass up the crazy busy water stops without worry.

Oh the silly questions a newbie marathoner asks!  Would love some advice from the veterans if possible.

Now here is why I am not worried about the marathon...I know I haven't run the distance yet, but I have run 23 twice.  Yesterdays 23 mile was partially done in heavy downpours and the last 9 miles I ran all by myself.  If I can do that, I can do anything!  Yesterday was a scheduled 26 mile run, but my husband called to say a storm was on the way and I decided to turn back early since the closest shelter was behind us and not in front of us.  I am not a big fan of thunder and lightning so I didn't want to be out in the open during that part.  Thankfully I made it to the highway and was able to stay under there during the thunder, a few other people from our training group were taking shelter there as well so I wasn't alone.  I may have cried if that happened.  Can I say again I really don't like thunder?  After the scary part of the storm passed we went our separate ways  (the others in my group hadn't reached their turn around point yet) and I continued the last 8 miles in pretty steady and sometimes heavy rain.  My new shoes got soaked for the second week in a row and now they are not pretty anymore.  :( 
Today I am still feeling a little sore.  I have some knee pain, but nothing too major.  Looking forward to a short run in a couple of days.  Hopefully the shoes will be dry by then.

17 Miles

Once again I have been missing in action...but I promise that I have been running. 

Training is going well.  I found a marathon training group that I meet with every Saturday morning and I am so glad that I found them.  They get my butt out of bed and encourage me to keep on going. 

This weekends run was 17 miles!  Yesterday got rained out so we headed out this morning instead.  I am happy to say I kept a pretty good pace and didn't feel too bad.  Two weeks ago I had a 14 mile run and it was horrible.  I wasn't able to keep up with the pace group.  I ran alone most of the time and it really brought me down.  It took me close to 3 hours to finish that day.  Heading in to this weekend I was pretty nervous because of my performance on the 14 day.  I decided to run with a minute slower pace group and that was the best decision I ever made.
I did pretty well during the run.  I didn't feel too many aches and pains until I was around the 12 mile mark. I didn't get any cramps at all which amazed me!  I have no idea if it was related to the new shot blocks I used today, but I think I am going to run out to the store and get some more of those!
I dropped my pace a little bit at the end and was able to push through.  I was so excited to see my car waiting for me at the end!! 

Next weekends run is 8 miles and the following week we will hit 20 miles. 

Half Marathon Photos

Thought I would post some pictures from the half marathon, finally. Here is the link, I am too cheap to actually by the copyright in order to post them.
Action Sports International

I look cute in my pink skirt. :)  Oh, and I have no idea who the chick in the pink shirt and blank pants is.

Midweek Update

As I said in my last post marathon training has officially begun.  Last weeks race fit in pretty well with the 36 week training program that my brother suggested I use.  Since I was so focused on the half marathon I never looked past race week.  I looked today and I have to run 14 miles!!  I think I was secretly hoping it would be an easy 8 miles or something close to that.  I have no doubt that I can do it. I just ran 13.1, what is another measly .9 miles?  I think my doubt is in running it by myself, it kinda scares me.

That fear has motivated me to finally join the running club, the application is going out in tomorrow's mail.  And I am going to save up to buy a forerunner.  I can't keep mapping out these distances before hand.  I mapped out a 7 mile out and back route on the trail and the 7 mile mark is at a great point where I can hopefully convince my husband to wait for me and give me some new supplies.   I might have to send in my kids with the puppy dog eyes to ask him.  :) 


Happy Hump day!

The Adventures of a Running Mom

This past Sunday was my half marathon.  I finished!! But I have to tell you the wonderful adventure it took to get there......


The weekend started about midnight on Saturday when I woke up to a crying two year old who was not feeling well at all.  I only got a couple of hours sleep that night and ended up taking C to the doctor.  She ended up having a huge ear infection and was put on some antibiotics.  My husband was also not feeling well at the time and my 5 year old had a cold.  After the doctor I took the miserable two year old to the pharmacy and then to my 5 year olds t-ball game because "I proooomisssed!" (Said by whiny 5 year old) After the game it was home for a half hour and then off to T's karate belt testing.  Yeah!!  She got her yellow belt!  Then it was back home again to pack up the car and drive with T and N to Chicago.  We left poor C and Daddy at home.  :( 


We made it to my sister's condo and discovered that N had a fever.  Ugh!  The sickness never ends!  I fed him dinner right away and put him to sleep so I could walk to the store to get some infant tylenol for when he woke up.  The rest of the night was pretty quite thankfully, T got to go swimming with her aunt and uncle and I got all of my running gear ready to go for the next morning.


Finally race day.......N had me up early, 4:30 am, to nurse and I wasn't able to fall asleep after that.  I was getting antsy and was just ready to race.  I got myself ready and left about 6:30.


It was a quick 5 minute walk to the race site and the park was filled with people.  I took a walk around to start warming up (it was chilly) and found my way to the 11 minute pace sign.  There I met some crazy wonderful people who all had different backgrounds and experiences.  There was the two time ironman woman, the obnoxious 56 year old who yelled over her really loud music coming from her ipod, Chuck the pace leader that offered all kinds of advice and tips, Gary the sign holder that dropped it at mile 3 and then proceeded to sing Glory, Glory Alleluia and various other songs the rest of the way, and many others. 


The race started and we set out at a good pace.  I was going to run/walk the race but I was feeling good and kept going.  I ran all the way to the turn around point!!!  It felt great running along the lake.  It was a long distance though and I felt like I was running all the way to Indiana (we could see it the first half of the race).  Thankfully we didn't and we turned around and headed back to see the skyline of Chicago.  It was a beautiful site and it motivated me to keep on going.  I ditched the run 5 walk 2 minutes strategy.  I always walked through the water stops and whenever I felt like it.  Running the first half bought me alot of time to keep me on pace with my goal of 2.5 hours.  I was feeling tired towards the end, but I kept pushing through and made it to the finish line.  I had never run farther then ten miles before and I couldn't believe I made it 13.1!!!  My official time was 2:28:35, under my goal time!  


It was disappointing to not have anyone cheering me on, I knew my husband would have been there at the finish line, but my sister and brother in law were taking care of T and N and decided to walk around instead of waiting to see me cross the finish line.  They took T to run the kids dash (if only I was a little bit faster I could have seen it!) and she will tell you that she finished 5th (more like 10th).  She was so proud of her ribbon and took it with her to school today.


After we got back to the condo I called the husband and he told me that C had an allergic reaction to her antibiotic and had to get a new one.  Oh joy!  Oh and my husband has food poisoning.  The fun never ends.


I will post pictures when I get the chance.  Marathon training has officially begun!

Favorite Friday Giveaways!

Here are my favorite giveaways from this week.  I encourage you to check them out, but then I also encourage you to be too lazy to check them out so I have more of a chance to win!

Rock n Roll Chicago 1/2 Marathon entry Click Here

Le Creuset baking dishes Click Here

Bondi Bands Click Here

Good Luck Everyone!