Preparing For The New Year

Photo credit:  Barefoot Five on Facebook.  Side Note:  I LOVE BAREFOOT FIVE.  A friend introduced me to her page, and--moment of honesty??  Some nights I just go and look at her quote memes.  It's nice to know someone just GETS my soul.  If you haven't, follow her.  She is amazing.  

While I’m dying to show you some of my finds for Christmas gifts this year, I’m trying to wait until January 8th has come and gone. I want to include some of the gifts that I’ve purchased for my best friend’s birthday. My goal for gifting this year was to keep as much of it local as I could. What wasn’t purchased from local businesses, I tried to purchase from small business owners in the US. I did end up buying some “filler” gifts, like gift cards for chain restaurants and such, at the end. But I am quite proud of myself for keeping the bulk of my gifts from local or small businesses.

Anywho, more about that later.

So today let’s talk resolutions. That has been at the forefront of my mind this week. I won’t say that I had Oprah’s “ah-hah” moment…or anything quite so cliché. But as my best friend put it recently, I’ve had these moments of clarity lately where I have truly focused on where I am at in my life and where I would ultimately like to be.

As every new year rolls around, dieting and exercise seem to be at the top of everyone’s list. Now I don’t know about y’all, but the holiday sweets have just about killed me. I joked about my pancreas just giving up the other day. With our office being bombarded with sweets, and my mom baking so much during the holidays, I have just had weeks of steadily feeling gross. Will power…I have none.

While I’m not looking to set myself up for failure, by setting an unreachable goal, but I would like to be healthier and stronger. This past year, I implemented yoga into my weekly routine. KW has been amazing, and I go once a week. During the summer, I went twice a week, and could tell my practice was getting better and I was getting stronger. In the Fall and early Winter months, I found myself getting more lax as schedules got more hectic. My goal this year is to hopefully be more consistent with my yoga practice and possibly implement more exercise.  I would also like to lessen my fast food intake.  It's so bad, but I do love it so.  Alas, I must put my love aside...

Another resolution at the top of everyone’s list is better management of finances. I am no different. This past year I’ve found myself struggling possibly more so than years past. For that, I can only really blame myself. I simply indulged too much. While I am a planner...and excellent at planning around car payments and Christmas and everything expected....I'm not so great with planning for the unexpected.  And life always has a way of throwing a ton of unexpected things at me all at once. For me, it’s time to break out the old, trusty budget… My actual goal, financially speaking, is to put more back in my savings.

I’ve had a love/hate relationship with writing this year. It’s such a weird thing. Because I tend to write memoir-type stories…part of me craves hearing that I’m relatable and that people "get" my stories…but sometimes I end up feeling like I’m living in a fishbowl. At times I begin to feel as if a lot of my life is on public display.  In those times, I cling to privacy. That's precisely where I found myself thish past year, so I held back. But ultimately, I’m at my happiest when I’m writing. And this year, I plan on doing more of what makes me happy. This also includes my photography. No, I’m not a photographer. I’m just a girl with a camera. Am I good? I wouldn’t say that. But it is something that I enjoy.

As for my last resolution… I’m figuring out more and more about myself. One of the things that I’ve learned this year has been that I’m extremely prone to taking on other’s energy and emotions. It can be a good thing, because it makes me more empathetic to people and their feelings…but it can be a huge energy drain too. I’m going to have to be more aware of those that I surround myself with for that very reason.

Again, my ultimate goal here is….to be happy.

Aleta's Crazy Christmas List Process

I promised a friend that I would do a blog post on this….so here goes.

Okay, now y’all know I have my quirks. In general, I am NOT an organized person. But I think that I may have reached record neurotic status when it came to my Christmas list this year. In all fairness to me, my memory is absolute shit, so honestly, my process helped TREMENDOUSLY.

I started my Christmas shopping back in July. While that may seem a bit extreme in itself, I have never been one who loves to shop at the last minute. I like to have plenty of time to put a lot of thought into my gifts. I also really sought to primarily buy local and/or buy from small businesses.

I listed everyone that was on my Christmas Shopping List on an excel spreadsheet. As ideas for each person popped into my head, I would add it under their name. Even back in July, there were a few gifts that I knew that I would be purchasing—some definite big gifts for my immediate family. Every item was in red type. As the lists for each person began to form and become more set in stone, I started a list off to the side that was dated with each pay period. I would add items under each date so that no pay period was hit super heavy. I also put items that would take longer (like handmade items) on earlier pay periods and items that I could just run and pick up last minute (like gift cards) towards the later pay periods. This helped out so much in determining my “plan of action” and my efforts not to over-spend any given pay period.

I will say, because I continued to add some items (ex: I had no idea what to buy my Brother-In-Law until mid-November), the later pay periods were still hit pretty hard…so my plan isn’t without flaws. Hopefully, next year, I’ll have a better idea of what to get EVERYONE on my list early on, so I won’t run into this issue.

Now, back to the people on my list. As I mentioned, every item under their name was written in red (you could choose any color really). As I began to purchase the items, I would change the type to a different color. You could strike-through, change font color, etc. Whatever would trigger your memory and let you know that an item had been purchased.

At home, because a failing memory also allows for me to lose items once I’d purchased them. I stored all the presents in one location. I took pieces of masking tape and marked who the items were for.

Not sure if this will help anyone, but truthfully, it has helped me so much. I did a mock list for you to see!

Christmas on Main Street

Y’all, Christmas on Main Street is tomorrow evening! Be there or be square! I am certain that Stephanie Douglas has done a fabulous job planning this year’s event. I, myself, will be peddling cookies at the Gilchrist County Journal tomorrow night. I would love to see each and every one of you!  This event is always so very nice for families.

Shop Local: Shells Bells Cards

Y'all...I flubbed.  I had gotten this post partially ready, and Shelley had sent me the remaining piece...and my edit didn't save.  Oy vey.  Shelley was so kind, but I wanted to re-run, with the actual "about her" section.  I hope you will enjoy!!

Shelley Keaton and her husband, John

What gets you in the Christmas spirit?

That first week of December, when my husband and I get the lights up and tree decorated. It’s one of my favorite things to do at Christmas time. 

Tell me a little about yourself and your business.

So a little about me. I was born and raised in Northern California. Moved to Florida over four years ago and married the man of my dreams. I really don’t know what to say so I asked several of my family and friends how they saw me. I live a very active, creative and healthy lifestyle. I try very hard to live by faith not by sight (2 Corinthians 5). I love to have fun and to be silly. Laughing and smiling is a must for me.

 
My husband John was the driving force behind me to get my cards out to the public. So I opened an Etsy store about a year ago and have my cards in Trenton at Best drugs. I love creating cards.  It gives me such joy knowing this little piece of art is going to make someone very happy...that is my goal with every creation.

What items do you offer?

I offer hand crafted, hand stamped art cards. I’m working on adding jewelry next year.

In speaking of your business, what would you suggest for someone who doesn't know what to buy their loved one?

I suggest getting cards for gift baskets, and gift cards. I have also had people ask for packs of cards. I think cards are special and I leave them blank inside so you can hand write a personal message. That’s the extra special gift: the message. 

What is the best way to contact you?

You can contact me via my Etsy store shellsbellscards https://etsy.me/2zA8Zy7

I’m also on Facebook, instagram and messenger.

Shop Local: Mindy Harris Photography

Mindy Harris

What is something that gets you in the Christmas spirit?
Something that gets me in the Christmas spirit is family time, the cooler Florida weather and, of course, putting up the Christmas tree. Some years I want to dash to the beach and some I want to do the full traditional shabang. This year I'm definitely in the Christmas spirit!

Tell me a little about yourself and your business.
I am a professional photographer that specializes in children and family photography but pretty much shoots anything that pulls my heart strings... including weddings. I have been photographing babies and families for about 8 years now and I love it more and more every year. Photography allows me to express my creative side as well as meet some amazing individuals! I'm so thankful for the relationships I've gained over the years, especially from the little ones--watching them grow from their mamas belly all the way to almost 5-8 years old has been so incredible to experience.

What services do you offer?
For families and children, I offer on-location mini and full sessions depending on your needs. Packages range from $135-350.
I also photograph intimate elopements and weddings and will travel for shoots. 

 
In speaking about your business, what would you suggest for someone who doesn't know what to get a loved one?
If you're stumped on what to give as a Christmas present then what better than the gift of family memories? I offer certificates for convenience and you could always purchase an actual session or if you're on a budget you could put money towards a session for your loved one. If the family has already been photographed by me this year ordering a canvas for their home would make a really thoughtful gift.

What is the best way to contact you?
The best way to contact me is either via Facebook message or calling/texting me at 352 949 3253, email is mindyharrisphotography@yahoo.com

Shop Local: What Goes Around Boutique

While Mrs. Jo Carol, Mama, and I were seeing the sites in Branford, we stopped at the What Goes Around Boutique.  I knew I was going to like the inside when I walked up and saw this sign (seen previously on my blog):

Mrs. Jo Carol barely made it in the door when she found a painting she liked.  I looked around at the spacious store, from the door, and took it all in.  In scanning the room, I saw something I had been looking for for quite some time....

I had seen a similar one hanging at The Gathering, while we were having lunch, and they had directed me to What Goes Around.  It is going to look perfect...I just need to figure out where I'm going to put it.

They have some very neat things.  But I was instantly drawn to their back wall.  It was everything Christmas.  So so pretty.

They have a little bit of everything.  I even saw some bracelets made of crystal beads as I was leaving!

Y'all will have to check it out!

Shop Local: Chantilly Place

Terri Grantham Cheston

What gets you into the Christmas spirit?
I love the cooler weather, Christmas lights, gift-giving and the Reason for the season.

Tell me a little about yourself and your business.
I started doing massage 24 years ago in a doctor's office; but always wanted my own place so that I could expand into complete wellness with essential oils, vitamins and more. Little did I know that when I started Chantilly Place in Bronson 10 years ago that it would grow into so much more.

What services do you offer?
We offer a full service salon including: permanent makeup, eyelash extensions and any other salon service that you might want for you or a loved one...hair, manicures, pedicures, massage, facials and tanning.

In speaking of your business, what are some gift-giving ideas for those who just don't know what toget their loved ones?
We have a boutique with something for everyone. If you can’t decide on a particular gift, we also have gift certificates.

What is the best way to contact you?
I can be reached at 352-486-2003. Or you can just stop by, we're located at: 310 Main Avenue, Bronson, FL 32621.

Shop Local: Bella Tan and Nails

I know it may surprise a few people, given that I'm a girly girl.  But having my hair done is not my "thing."  I enjoy it...but it's not my favorite.  My one luxury that I afford myself is having my toes done.

I go nearly every three weeks, and have been going for nearly the past 5 years, to Bella Tan and Nails.  I'll be 100% honest with you, I get horrible ingrowns and would be crippled if I didn't go every three weeks.  Thank you, genetics!  Lol.  Mrs. Val and Haitrieu are lifesavers!

Not only do they get me out of pain, but they give me such pretty toes!  They're always willing to try new designs or will help me when I can't think of one.  

These sweet ladies, and now Maria, have become like family to me.  If you know that your loved one would like a pedicure, think about getting them a gift card to Bella this Christmas!

Aleta's Note:  It's funny looking over photos of my toes...it's a progression of the foot tattoo.

Shop Local: Hair by Jessimae @ Ginger Snips

Nick and Jessimae

What is something that gets you in the Holiday spirit?
Something that gets me in the holiday spirt is decently the weather and giving,it’s like everyone turns into big balls of joy and i love it!

Tell me a little about yourself and your business.
I’m “new,” and building my clientele! I love to do fun hair and extreme change. But my absolute favorite is when i turn someone and they have that biggest grin and they can not seem to stop looking at themselves or there hair, that’s the reason i choose to do this! I work at my mom's shop, Ginger Snips.

What are the services you offer?
The service i offer are well, everything ! Color, highlights,Corrective Color, Cuts, Perms, Waxing and styling! I also do weddings or anything you need to get dolled up for hair and makeup

In speaking of your business, what would you suggest for someone who didn't know what to buy their loved one?
Of course i would say a gift card, give the women in your life a day!

What is the best way to contact you?
My Facebook page, my cell 352-507-3788, or even the salon number 352-493-4932.

Jessimae's sweet girls: Maelynn Kay and Harper Lee

Shop Local: The Shrimp Boat

What is your favorite Christmas dish?
My favorite Christmas dish is non-traditional lol!! We do all-seafood, so I'd say stone crab!

Tell me a little about yourself and your business.
My name is Jill Futch. I've been married to Tyler Futch for 13 years and have two beautiful children: trace, 9, and Kaylee, 6! We own The Shrimp Boat in Horseshoe Beach. We provide all-fresh and local seafood at our restaurant. Commercial fishing is very important to us. 

What items do you offer?
We have a full-menu: from seafood to chicken, pork chops to burgers, and more. 

In speaking of your business, what would you suggest for someone who doesn't know what to get their loved one?
Gift cards are always great!! 

What is the best way to contact you?
Contact me through our facebook page The Shrimp Boat (horseshoe Beach): https://m.facebook.com/theshrimpboathorseshoe/

Shop Local: The Framed Hourglass

Stephanie Beasley
Photo Credit: Eliza Beasley
"I have always loved this photo.  I feel like Eliza took it at that moment because she could see how happy photography makes me."

What is the best place to see Christmas lights?
I would say, locally, the best place would be Spirit of the Suwannee in Live Oak. But my favorite place would have to be Saint Augustine, Florida. One of my favorite things to do is to get in pajamas with some hot cocoa and just go for a ride and look for Christmas lights along the way!

Tell me a little about yourself and how you got into photography.
I am a wife of a veteran Army Ranger who served 2 tours...one and Iraq and one in Afghanistan. I am a mother of three: two boys ages 17 and 19, and one girl age 12. I am a nurse. I became a nurse 6 years ago after our family returned home from my husband being in the army. Oddly enough, I picked up photography only about two years ago. I had mentioned wanting a camera and my husband purchased one for me for Mother's Day. It was much more of a camera that I had expected and frankly I was intimidated. I actually didn't pick the camera up for a few months. Then one day, I caught my husband (who's always enjoyed photography) using it. I figured if I didn't start using it I probably would be losing my gift. So, I started playing around with a different settings and researching. I have always had a love for art, but it was then that I fell in love with the art of photography.

What does photography mean to you?
In photographing people in different stages of their life, I suddenly started recalling the milestones in my own life. This kind of nostalgia of times of my own marriage, my own pregnancies, the birth of my own children came at the perfect time. I was missing those days! My oldest son had moved off after graduation to start college, and my youngest son will be doing the same this year. Being able to reminisce on times when they were little, while photographing other people in the stages of life, really fullfilled that yearning that I had knowing that I would never have anymore children of my own. These are chapters that I have already closed in my own life, but I am now able to enjoy capturing those precious moments for others. That's what photography means to me.

Tell me about how The Framed Hourglass came to be.
As far as the business aspect, The Framed Hourglass came about after I had had several offers to photograph for people. My daughter, who shares the same artistic and creative interests as I, also showed an desire in photography. I thought that starting a business would be a great opportunity for she and I to experience what it's like to run our own business. Although nursing will always be my full-time occupation, I would love to be able to pass the business down to her one day if she continues to show an interest. "The Framed Hourglass" portion of our business name really just portrays our current portfolio. "Beasley Photography" Is actually our business name. I did this so that if I were to pass the business down to my daughter one day, she could then name her own portfolio...by Beasley Photography. I chose "The Framed Hourglass" for my portfolio title because as I mentioned, to me, my photography represents moments in time...moments of time captured and framed to enjoy forever.
Time moves so fast...I love the fact that it's able to be captured to remember forever in the form of a photograph.

What is the best way to contact you?
The best way to contact would be by either calling 352-888-7300 Wednesday through Saturday or message my via Facebook or Instagram.

Shop Local: River Run Olive Oil Company

If you are still at a loss for what to buy the Chef in your life, look no further.  I have you covered!

The same day that Mom, Mrs. Jo Carol and I ventured off to High Springs and visited the Bird's Nest, we went to the River Run Olive Oil company.  I won't lie, I had been itching to go to this place since it opened.  Unfortunately, I rarely get over that way.

To say I was impressed would be putting it mildly.  Y'all...this place is quite the operation!  There are oodles and oodles of different balsamic vinegars and olive oils to try.  Us girls probably spent an hour trying all the different interesting varieties.

Jo Carol and Cynthia Kay

At the end, my favorites were:  The Wild Raspberry Balsamic Vinegar, the Cranberry Pear Balsamic Vinegar, the Lime Olive Oil, and the Basil Olive Oil.  Mrs. Jo Carol loved the Pineapple balsamic vinegar and Mom loved the Coconut balsamic vinegar.  But that's just us talking our favorites.  You'll have to try for yourself.

They have different sized jars.  Now, because it is easier for me to carry to work (I do so love oil and vinegar dressing on my salads), I chose the small bottles.  But for frequent cooking purposes, you may just want to go with the larger bottles.

In addition to the vinegars and olive oils, they also have a himalayan salt lamp room/display.  They have it to where you can make your own lamp.  How cool is that?  (This from a girl that has possibly 6 salt lamps at her house lol).  But they also have an area with different sauces, honeys, marinades, etc.  And in another display, they have jewelry made from olive pits, and soaps!

If you are near High Springs, this place is a must stop at!  I fell in love!

Shop Local: Artistic Soul Tattoo

Cheryl Barron & Jennifer Gonzales

Jennifer: 

Where is your favorite place to see Christmas lights?
St. Augustine is one of my favorite places to go. 

Tell me a little about yourself and your business.
My name is Jennifer and opened our first tattoo shop in Ormond Beach on 12/8/07. Opened our second location in chiefland on 7/7/17. 

What are the services that you offer?
We do tattoos lol.

In speaking about your business, what is a suggestion for someone who doesn't know what to get their loved one?
We offer Christmas gift certificates during the month of December. For every $150 you get we add $25. It’s a gift your loved ones will never lose or break.  --Aleta's Note--They have a Black Friday sale going on just today.  So, get your booty over there!

What is the best way to contact you?
The best way to contact us is by calling or text 386-523-8291 also Facebook Artistic Soul Tattoo Co.

Cheryl:

Where is the best place to see Christmas lights?
I honestly have no idea!  Lol

Tell me a little about yourself and your business.
I am a single mom of two.  I'm a Chiefland native.  I'm a tattoo artist.  I love the opportunity to draw up something unique, just for you, and make it come to life!

What are the services you offer?
Tattoos :)

In speaking of your business, what suggestions would you have for someone who doesn't know what to get their loved one?
Gift certificates, of course!

Whats the best way to contact you?
You can text me at 352-949-0034, or find me on facebook at www.facebook.com/clbarron  or email me at cebpremier@gmail.com.