Growing Up Jenny

Requiem for a marriage (written August 10, 2010)

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 03:35:00 +0000

I remember how our fingers danced towards each other as your friend insisted we couldn't be "just friends"

My shy smile mirroring yours, the electricity leaping between finger tips as they accidently brushed across the table

I remember the rush of filming whales in Boston, bracing myself against the boat, camera held tight inside my coat against the rain; losing, yet always finding you again

I remember the mini-donuts you'd buy--3 for you and 3 for me, fed from your fingers as our eyes held tight

Your eagerness not to lose me, running back into your house to scribble down your number as I waited in my friend's car

I remember your writing--all in caps--green marker on the inside of a gum package; the mix of courage, shyness and excitement as I picked up the receiver to call for the first time

I remember the first time you kissed me--hidden from our friends in the pool hall; your intensity and passion--the aura of joy and exuberance rising up all around you

I wanted in for the ride, to give you every piece of myself, yet pushed back and forth, afraid

I remember the Blackout--going to bed early and alone, the loneliness I felt as groups and couples danced excitedly outside the house; the beating of my heart as you knocked on my door to pull me out into the starlight; the joy that out of everyone it was me you wanted to spend that night with

I remember your gentleness; your patience with my tears; how afraid I was to lose you--and how my fear was what pushed you away

I remember 7 years spent together, flirting with you and you alone--yours the only validation I needed

I remember slumping on the floor against the couch, the grief of knowing that even begging wasn't enough to make you stay

I remember hope--you wanting to try again--how I held you close when you came in through the door, resting all my fears on your strong shoulders--how the world felt right again

And how those six weeks of you truly trying were the best we'd ever been

I remember finding your ring--tossed among a basketful of odds and ends, knowing that no words, no tears could keep you with me; knowing that I'd failed at loving you; that I loved you, but was never good enough

I remember driving in your car; how you'd turn down the radio when I spoke so you could hear

How no one can pack a box or trunk like you can; how no one can fix a computer like you

And how although you couldn't fix my every problem--and I didn't expect you to--I don't know how I'll solve the smallest puzzle without you

Where's my money tree?

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 23:12:00 +0000

I have 3 credit cards. When you work freelance, you learn that they're much safer than cash because you never know when your next paycheque is coming.

Unfortunately the recession stopped the flow of money, and when I tried to use a card last week, I discovered that I've reached my limit. With all 3 cards.

It's not that I've been spending much. Most of my debt is from the year post-recession when I tried courses and coaching in hopes of reviving my career. And from the year post-separation when I refused to ask for money.

The disability support the government gives me is saving me from spending thousands each month on medication, but once my rent is paid, I can barely pay the minimum on each card.

I'm afraid.

Poverty does wonders for depression, of course. I'm supposed to be getting out, planning things with other people. But the cost of a movie, or even an ice cream cone is too high.

My family takes pity on me--taking me out for a meal and picking up the tab. And I love them for it. But once again, I've become the charity case.

I make lists in my head of what I might possibly have left to sell; wondering who'd give me a fair price for what I have; regretting all I had to leave behind last year as I down-sized for each move.

The surest way not to spend money is to not leave the house.

And so I sit here, paralyzed with fear. Because when I'm afraid, I don't jump into action--I freeze.

Sleep makes the time go by.

Home is where

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 00:35:00 +0000

I've never understood those who struggle staring at an empty page as they wonder what to write.

When I wrote for magazines, I started with the research, preceded by the point behind the article, summed up in a witty line or two that seldom made it into print.

With personal writing, like my blog, I came to the page with a line or two already written in my head.

But these days, my head is filled with inconsequential noise: concerns about money; where to move; where in the world I might belong if such a place exists. Perhaps not so inconsequential, but more than I can handle now.

As the weather warms around me, I think of my house--the porch I'd sit on to read at night; the back yard where I'd sunbathe, hidden from the neighbors; the garden I dreamed of building; the office I'd only begun to decorate; the breeze of the fan above my bed as I napped.

I didn't know how much I loved that house until I had to leave it.

I'm a woman alone; living off the goodness of the government disability program--below the poverty line. In the vicious cycle where I can't afford the rehab my body needs to work, and thus can't work, so can't afford what I need.

I can dream big all I want, but woman alone + poverty seldom equals the ability to own a home. I'm not naive. I know our little starter home was the best I'll ever get. And it was he who got the mortgage--all alone--not me.

I regret nagging; regret my lack of appreciation; regret turning into the worst parts of my mother. All because I tripped on the steps the first time we saw the house; all because I was much too insecure to see his vision; and because those godforsaken kitchen cupboards reminded me of the battle scars of the PTSD of my childhood.

It was beautiful when we left--his dreams achieved, but far too late for me.

Home is...not here...in another basement...alone.

Home is laughter, conversation, music, the sight of something outside larger than a slice of sky; a voice other than my own, that of a crazy cat lady speaking to her fur-children. Home is other people; other hands; other thoughts and opinions. Home is an invitation, a journey together--not a life sentence: forever and ever alone, amen.

The T-shirt I wear reads "Love Where You Live," but this is not living. As much as it hurts to know it, here is not my home.

This is the story of me

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 01:48:00 +0000

It's over now. 15 months and I've been replaced.

I tell myself how stupid I was to keep on hoping. And my broken heart grinds away into finest powder beneath his feet.

But...

...if I'm the heroine of my own story--not the victim--I'd tell it a different way.

I'd be the brave one; who kept my vows, and kept on trying even when it hurt.

I'd be the strong one; who trusted the man I loved too much to just move on; to let someone else jump in and take his place.

I'd be the one who loved despite everything; who hoped against hope; not the girl who loved too much, but the woman who choose to love more than she had to.

I'd stand against the wind alone...and let it take me.

I refuse to let them steal my story from me.

An animal print-set sale and giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 18:25:00 +0000

Today's giveaway is part rock 'n' roll, and part simply adorable. I'm choosing the cheetah print for MY imaginary baby! ;)

"I started doing crafts a few years ago when my oldest two kids were younger, maybe 3 and 4," says Erica, the creative force behind Pixie's Pretties Boutique (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pixies-Pretties-Boutique/144273612280857). "I'm a stay-at-home mom and those years of just me and the kids at home all day were very emotionally trying. The crafting helped me have something to do for myself and for them. I can do a little at a time; I don't have to leave the house; it brings out my creativity, and it doesn't have to be expensive."

Erica has donated an amazing set for you and your little one: booties, a headband with detachable bow or flower, and a bottle cap necklace!

The details...

* boots: your choice or either size 6-9 months or 9-12 months
* headband: stretchy enough to fit babies to adults; bow or flower is on a clip, and can be taken off the headband and worn seperately
* bottlecap necklace: made using a very durable, waterproof resin; on a 15" ball chain

And the winner gets to choose between the following three sets!

pink zebra

zebra

cheetah

Even better, fans of Growing Up Jenny who don't win have the chance to get a similar set for $12 plus shipping ($5 or less)--first come, first served!

Note:
* items may not be exactly the same as those pictured
* payment by paypal only, please.

Giveaway extended until Jun 11th

Just fill out the Google form to enter to win one of the sets above. https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?hl=en&authkey=CKfWkxQ&formkey=dGstZkNTWG5KTm5FTjcwc2Q0aTJRTnc6MQ#gid=0

Erica would appreciate very much if those who receive her items would post photos of themselves enjoying them on her page!

A huge thank you to Erica at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pixies-Pretties-Boutique/144273612280857.

Hmmm...how do you think my cats would look in those cheetah-print boots?

Modern Cameo -- a gorgeous giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Sun, 15 May 2011 23:20:00 +0000

If you thought cameos were only for jewelry, you haven't met their modern version yet!

Carolyn, creator of Modern Cameo (http://www.facebook.com/ModernCameo), makes custom cameos using side-view photographs and turns them into frame-worthy art.

"I was inspired by this picture of my older daughter as a baby," says Carolyn.

"I just love the timeless beauty of a cameo. No fad-clothes, no haircolor to worry about... just the person. And profiles are so unique--I haven't seen two that look even remotely the same yet!"

Giveaway

4"x6" unframed custom cameo.

Winner chooses their own side-view picture and 2-3 colors for cameo. You can even choose a photo of your pet.

Value: $6

Shipping: free to US and CAN

Ends May 31st.

Just fill out the Google form to win! https://spreadsheets.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?authkey=CO3-ldQB&authkey=CO3-ldQB&hl=en&hl=en&formkey=dFdFUVR3YlBmR0tCX2FKM2VyS0lfb3c6MQ#gid=0

WINNER: Jessica Tang!

Meeting mark.

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Sat, 07 May 2011 12:50:00 +0000

I finally met mark! And yes, I am thoroughly in love.

I had the chance a win a discount off my purchase, plus samples, plus more, and decided that maybe it was time to try this company I'd been eyeing.

Here's just a taste of my spoils.

Tons of samples from our giveaway sponsor and party hostess, Ali Strasser Independent mark. representative, including skin and body care, perfume, eye shadow and lip products.

I also bought 2 purses: one, a smaller, over-the-shoulder studded black bag, and the ZipAround Bag in Stone. The coolest part about this bag is that it has zippers at the bottom that you unzip to make the purse bigger--if you buy more than you meant to, perhaps, or want it to double as an overnight bag. The bag also comes in Cerulean Blue, which I had a hard time passing up!

I decided to start carefully with the makeup (I'd be receiving samples, after all), and chose the Lip Stain in Lolli, after reading extensive reviews on the website about what other people thought of the color; how it looked on them, etc.

mark. always has a special or two going on for its customers! Besides getting the Zip Around Bag at a special prize, I also received a free necklace.

I couldn't pass up a set of 2 gorgeous thin, lacy scarves--one in black; one in dark plum. They help lengthen my large upper body, and I love knowing that the plum will match most black things I wear, and the black will match everything else.

If you love mark. products, too--or if you'd like to discover them for the first time--you're in luck!

I don't throw parties often, but when I do...they're spectacular! Join me in discovering the makeup, purses, jewelry, clothes and accessories from mark. with Ali Strasser Independent mark representative. RSVP for all the details!

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=hp#!/event.php?eid=206285842736122

Keep your eyes on the Facebook page for an announcement about an upcoming comment game with Ali!

The fascinator

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Wed, 04 May 2011 02:22:00 +0000

It seems I missed a lot by not watching the recent wedding between William and Kate. Even my father watched it the next day with my mother and grandma.

With no TV or radio, I receive news in bits and pieces, after the fact. I don't see movement, but I see words and photos of whatever matters to the writer of what I read on the internet. Everything comes second hand, filtered through the person who speaks to me, whether out loud or in writing.

To many women, the hats or "fascinators" the women wore to celebrate the royal nuptials were the true...fascination. (What other word is fit to use?) My grandma reminisced about hat-wearing; bloggers asked if I'd follow suit if fascinators became the style here in North America. My mother wondered, too.

Considering more than half the weddings I've attending have been as bridesmaid, bride or piano player, and that daily life gives me little other occasion even to dress up, I said it would have to depend--would I also be attending high tea, horse races and polo matches?

Life constrains us, doesn't it? Yes, you can wear a fascinator; yes, you can learn not to care if others whisper when you do. But where would you buy one? And would you wear it to the movies, dinner, or for a night at home with your husband?

Buy me a fascinator and I'm quite prepared to wear one. But please, along with it bring a place and time that I can sport my new decoration.

P.S. Costume parties don't count.

Giveaways ending tonight...

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Mon, 02 May 2011 00:53:00 +0000

Just a quick post tonight: Due to popular request, I'm planning to end all the posted April Birthday Bash Giveaways EXCEPT for Kharliebug and Kylie's Crochet Shop at midnight TONIGHT EST (Sunday, May 1st). I'm leaving these last two giveaways up until May 19th to give everyone a chance to enter them.

And don't go far--I have many more to post! Not to mention online parties for Scentsy, Just Jewelry, mark. and 31, AND several comment games, too. My blog is one busy 2-year-old right now!

So get those entries in for the April giveaways while you still can. (Don't tell, but you've got a pretty good chance of winning!)

Keep in mind:
* the only MANDATORY entry is to like my Facebook page and the sponsor's Facebook page
* the other entries are all extra and don't have to be new; for example: if you already subscribe to my blog by email, fill in the email subscriber box on the Google form--it doesn't have to be a new subscription to count!

Tomorrow I'll announce and email the lucky winners! Please send your friends and fans so they can support my wonderful sponsors, too.

Up next: a review of my very first mark. products; an announcement of my online mark. party and a mark. comment game!

And just to end this post on a smiling note, here's a photo of my favorite little boy, taken last week while we waited in the car for Mommy to finish work.

Good luck everyone! :)

Cross-body Sling Purse Giveaway and a 60% off clearance sale!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 21:57:00 +0000

Here's another giveaway I wish I could rig the drawing for!

Kharliebug (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kharliebug/147774178605684) makes everything from flower brooches and fabric covered notebooks to coffee cozies and grafitti-print clutches.

Currently everything in her Etsy store (http://www.etsy.com/shop/Kharliebug?ref=si_shop) is on clearance for 60% off--an amazing deal!) as she prepares to unveil her new store at http://kharliebug.bigcartel.com/.

I couldn't pass up the deals myself! SIXTY PERCENT OFF! That's a $5 pair of blue pearl earrings for only 2 bucks!

Here's mine--perfect to match my blue pearl necklace!

And a gorgeous blue flower pin, too. I love that you can wear it as either a hair clip or a brooch (or even clipped onto a bag or purse). And check out all that sparkle in the middle!

Items like these will still be available on her blog (http://kharliebug.com) after her etsy shop closes, but her new Graffiti Chic store (http://kharliebug.bigcartel.com/) will focus more on items like the following hand-painted graffiti clutch:

And here's what you can win!

Giveaway item
Cross-body Sling Purse

Measures approx. 5.5”x9” with zipper closure.

Hangs approx. 24”--worn across the body with the strap on one shoulder and the bag sitting on the opposite hip.
Strap can be tied in a knot to shorten.

Great for travel or a trip shopping because it leaves your belongings safe and your hands free.

Value: $20
Shipping: free to U.S. and Canada

Fill out the Google form here to win:

https://spreadsheets0.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?hl=en&hl=en&authkey=CIXzge8K&formkey=dEZ5WU9WVWR6WDVNVWh1LUtSRlNYanc6MQ#gid=0

I want one! Luckily Kharliebug makes custom items, so you can buy this same purse, but choose from the fabrics she has available.

Congrats to the lucky winner! Oh, and if anyone wants to win this as a birthday gift for me, I definitely won't complain. ;)

Have fun browsing the shop and pick up those 60% off etsy items while you still can!

Baby hat and leggings giveaway, plus a special birthday discount!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 19:01:00 +0000

Look what we have today! Something bright and rainbow-like for all the girls who are expecting or brand new moms.

I was so excited to meet Kylie, owner of Kylie's Crochet Corner (http://www.facebook.com/kyliescrochetcorner). We had a lot in common right away, and she is the sweetest person you could ever hope to meet!

Here's a quote from the "about" section of Kylie's page:

"Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world." -Harriet Tubman

Kylie hopes to make a difference with her business. In honor of her mother, who died from cancer when Kylie was just 18, she donates 10% of her net proceeds to the American Cancer Society.

Kylie is an amazing woman and I'm honored to be able to include her in our Birthday giveaways.

She's also incredibly talented with her needles and yarn. I'm in love with almost everything on her page! Unfortunately I could only choose a few of her lovely creations to show here. Take a look!

And here's the prize Kylie created especially for our lucky winner: Rainbow-colored baby legwarmers and a matching hat!

* hand-crocheted and designed by Kylie; made of 100% wool; hand wash only

* leggings are about 8" long and have an 8" thigh, so they'll be perfect for a 3-9 month old right away. As the baby grows, they'll progressively fit higher up on the leg, which means they could still fit at 4-years-old, like legwarmers reaching to just below the knee.

* The hat is 14 to 16" around and 5.5 to 6" tall.

* Colors are bright yellow, light green, royal blue, lilac, primary red.

Shipping: free to U.S. and Canada

Click the link and fill out the Google form to win something handmade by Kylie!

https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?hl=en&authkey=CIG1jYUH&formkey=dHJjODJPNVdhSVotNGlveXNVMmRNQVE6MQ#gid=0

And since not everyone can win, Kylie is offering a 15% off discount to all Growing Up Jenny readers, good for both in-stock merchandise and custom orders.

Custom items she can make include:
• cloth diaper covers/soakers up to 2T

• longies up to 4T

• shorties up to 4T

• skirties up to 4T

• knit bib overalls up to 2T

• owl, bird, and guitar appliques

• short sleeve cardigan sweaters (like the one with the bird above) up to 4T

• leggings/legwarmers

• beanies/hats in almost any size

She can also custom-dye yarn on superwash wool and licorice twist. Any other bases she doesn't have on hand, she can order, with the cost of yarn being paid up front.

Shop at Kyle's etsy page: http://www.etsy.com/shop/browneyedgirl1489?ref=si_shop

Or create a custom order at her Hyena Cart page: http://hyenacart.com/kyliescrochetcorner/index.php?info=570

Use special discount code JENNY15 when checking out to get 15% off all in-stock items. For custom orders, the 15% will come off at the end of your order, as all custom orders require a $10 non-refundable deposit.

Our special Birthday Bash discount is good until May 19th at midnight, so get your orders in while you can! :)

Learning to bond

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 02:37:00 +0000

It feels strange to be posting giveaway after giveaway, yet nothing about myself; especially as my life has been changing so much.

Trying to migrate my blog to Wordpress created so much stress, and on top of these giveaways I'd put so much work into planning, threatened to overwhelm me. The weather stayed miserable throughout February and March, and at times, I again thought of how much easier other people's lives would be without me.

When I first started working with Dr. Goodheart, I felt hopeful. He diagnosed me with post-traumatic-stress-disorder (PTSD) as if there was nothing to it, nodded and sympathized with my tales of horror, and shared things I'd never known before. As I read the first of several books he'd suggested, I learned lesson after lesson, my epiphanies tumbling over one another just as my words did.

And then I was stuck.

The first step in my re-parenting was the very first step I'd missed out on--learning that my caregiver would love and be there for me without needing constant reassurance of that fact.

I am often clingy and needy, hating myself for doing so even as I ask, "Do you love me?" And when someone goes away, I truly believe that their love goes with them. I panic at leave-takings; cry when I learn a friend can't see me that weekend after all.

And so we devise a plan. I have one friend that truly understands me; one that I lived with once as a roommate; one that I can live with as a roommate again (despite her husband and 4-year-old-son). Because I demand nothing; because she'd cook a meal only for her son and herself; because I love her little boy like my own; because my companionship makes her life better, and especially because a car and driver is one of the best things that can happen in her life.

The first week was difficult. We both had trouble emerging from our own coping methods. I slept; she kept busy cooking, baking, cleaning. And just as each one of us was feeling that this couldn't work; that something was horribly wrong, we talked. And things were okay again.

And now it's my second week here; a week in which I feel like I'm a different person. I'm not better of course; not foolish enough to believe that something so simple could make me that way.

But when I leave Mary's for my appointment with Dr. Goodheart tomorrow; then drive the hour from his place back to Sarnia, I'll know that I have just 7 days to survive before I move back here again.

I'm wanted here, even needed. And after reading about bonding in one of the books I loaned her. Mary knows what I need and how to help me. Knowledge is power. True friends are hard to find, and I'm incredibly grateful for mine.

Win a first-edition Star Trek Comic Book!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 19:10:00 +0000

And now a gift for our Trekkie fans! (Psst...Father's Day is coming up!)

Claudette's shop, Our Vintage Toys and Dolls (http://www.facebook.com/OurVintageToysAndDolls) is extremely unique. She just started her Facebook store in February 2011, but she's been a
Power Seller on Ebay since 1999 (that's 12 years!) You can find her Ebay store at http://stores.ebay.ca/memoriesvintagetoysndolls?_rdc=1.

Between the two shops, she has nearly 200 items for sale, and specializes in Vintage Toys, Dolls, Collectibles, advertising promotions, and much more!

Here's what one lucky person can win: a star-studded FIRST EDITION comic book based on the very first Star Trek The Motion Picture! This Marvel Comics Group book was printed in 1980--yes, it is 31 years old and in pristine condition.

I don't know much about comics myself, but even my dad sounded intrigued when I mentioned the prize Claudette was donating.

You know the drill! Click here and fill out the Google form to win! https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?hl=en&authkey=CNG7yugN&formkey=dE91c0x6dWlqemhRcmNrcllnbHp4dGc6MQ#gid=0

Fun with Scentsy!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 18:37:00 +0000

My very first comment game was a success!

I'm hosting a Scentsy party all month, but this comment game gave people the chance to win things like 20% off their order, a Scentsy Buddy for half-price, and free gifts with purchase.

The absolute best prizes? A Scentsy Buddy (so, so popular!) and a full-size Apex warmer!

Don't forget: if you took part in the comment game, but didn't win, you still get 10% off any order from my party. We're keeping it open until either April 30th or May 19th, depending on how quickly I can get giveaways posted!

Thanks so much to everyone who came out to support me! I'm afraid I may be hooked on comment games now! I'm planning a general one based on trivia from my blog, and am welcoming donations! :)

Here are some fun Scentsy facts:

* For those of you who were interested in ordering, but lived someonwhere other than the U.S. or Canada, I have some cool news! Beginning on April 18th, anyone who lives in Europe or the UK will be able to order Scentsy, too! Just ask me for more info if you're interested! (And I'm so sorry to my wonderful friends in India, Australia and New Zealand. I'd mail you beautiful scents if I had the money!

* Scentsy Warmers use a low-watt bulb to melt specially formulated wax slowly, maximizing the fragrance time of your scent bar. With no flame, soot, smoke, or lead, the Scentsy system is a safe way to enjoy more than 80 different scents

* 1 Scentsy bar = approx. 40-80 hrs. of scent time. Cost: $5
1 full-size system (a large warmer and 3 bars) = 120-240 hrs. Cost: $40 + tax and shipping
To get the same amount of "scent" time, you'd have to buy the following:
- 9 Yankee candles (Cost: $197.91)
- 22 Febreze jar candles (Cost: $136.97)
- 11 Glade jar candles (Cost: $98.66)

To order, go to https://hollymetzger.scentsy.us/Home. If you live in the U.S., look on the left where it says "Open Parties" and scroll down until you see "Growing Up Jenny." Click on "Buy from Party" and you can browse to your heart's content!

Shopping from Canada? Go to the same link; then at the top right, click on the market and change to Canada. Then find the "Growing Up Jenny" party in exactly the same way.

Looking for gifts for guys, grads or Mother's Day? Come visit me at http://facebook.com/GrowingUpJenny. I'm brand new to Scentsy, but I've been studying up and asking questions, and I have some great ideas!

And remember, if you purchase the Warmer of the Month (the absolutely gorgeous "Baby's Breath" or the Scent of the Month (Flutter), you'll get 10% off. Yay for good deals.

Thanks so much for supporting me in my very first online party, and for supporting our wonderful consultant, Holly, as she starts to build her business.

Love and good scents to my wonderful readers! :)

mark. Makeup Giveaways!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 05:33:00 +0000

I planned to postpone these giveaways until I could show you photos of my own mark. goodies from the wonderful Ali Strasser (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ali-Strasser-Independent-mark-representative/138121159550611), but I just can't wait any longer to post these prizes!

Ali has been a mark. consultant for 4 years, and definitely knows her stuff. This was my very first time ordering from mark., and Ali was right there to answer every question--thoughtful and a true professional.

I think I'm just a little bit in love with mark.--and I haven't even seen my package yet!

Here's what you can win!

Giveaway item #1
Grab bag with at least one full-sized product, samples and a magalog

Ali's first gift is a fun surprise! I'm absolutely in LOVE with samples, so if this prize somehow ends up going to me... Let's just say it's I good thing that my own grab bag and samples are on their way! ;)

Value: at least $15
Shipping: Free to the U.S. and Canada

Fill out the Google form here! https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?hl=en&authkey=CN7m0tkM&formkey=dEJqS0VYeWdrQTk0bTd6LXlhSVRtWUE6MQ#gid=0

Giveaway item #2
Super Flip Color Kit

This fun-looking flip kit comes with 9 lip shades (some lipstick, some gloss) and 9 eye shades, chosen specifically to work with all skin tones.

Prize includes a coupon for $5 off a $20 purchase.

Value: $20 plus $5 coupon
Shipping: Free to Canada and the U.S.

I've been trying to win one of these for a very long time, so whoever gets this prize is one lucky women! Consider it a gift just for being you. :)

Enter to win right here: https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?hl=en&authkey=CLSZu7QM&formkey=dDFnN1NnVFdzd2YtdkVKVzI1OXFoU2c6MQ#gid=0

Keep an eye out for more from Ali. She's planning her own 1,000 fan giveaway, so stick around her Facebook page for more goodies. And don't forget to say "hi" from Growing Up Jenny!

I'll show you what arrives in the mail for ME as soon as I can. And I just might have something special planned with Ali for the month of May. So if you like what you see on her page, don't go away!

Good luck, lovely readers!

Bows by Britney Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 19:37:00 +0000

Well, I promised you hair bows, so here we go!

Bows by Britney is a shop for...you guessed it--hair bows!

Love this brown and pink argyle bow!

What can I say about Britney? If you check out her Facebook page(http://www.facebook.com/bowsbybritneyg), I think you'll see that her customers say it all! There are 27 reviews on her page, and each one is 5 stars.

Check out her photos, and you'll see dozens of grinning girls, each wearing their Bows by Britney. People don't take the time to take and upload photos like this unless they're really, really happy with the products they've purchased. Like I said, Britney's customers say it all.

Take a look and see for yourself! And don't forget to let Britney know that Growing Up Jenny sent you.

Britney makes all her bows extra durable by both hand sewing AND gluing them. Plus she heat seals the ends of all ribbons to prevent them from fraying. These are definitely high quality!

Note from Britney ('cause she cares!): Some bows contain small parts and require adult supervision when being worn by small children

Giveaway item #1
Minnie Mouse Bow

* approx 3.5-4" wide and 2 layers
(loving all the different patterns, colors and textures here!)
* attached to an alligator clip so that it can be worn either clipped to a headband or directly in the hair
Value: $6.50
Shipping: Free to the U.S. and Canada

Click here to fill out the Google form and win!

https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?hl=en&authkey=COfLn-QJ&formkey=dFpDUE5Nd3FWYzFkdDZRMVRSTGFkb2c6MQ#gid=0

Giveaway item #2
Solid Purple Bow (how did she know I love purple?!) ;)

* approx 3.5-4" wide and 2 layers
* attached to an alligator clip so that it can be worn either clipped to a headband or directly in the hair

Value: $6
Shipping: Free to the U.S. and Canada

Click here to fill out the Google form. And good luck! :)

https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?hl=en&authkey=CNyThHk&formkey=dGg0aWJPMXQxcTA1VTljWHZ6alBGVkE6MQ#gid=0

Ready to win some Scentsy?

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 05:15:00 +0000

This may very well be the shortest blog post I EVER write!

Here we go!

I posted last week about my Scentsy Surprise Party, but no one seems in the mood for surprises! So...we're changing the rules!

The new party is a comment game on my Facebook page where you can win a percentage off or free gift from a purchase you make during my party (running until the end of April, or longer!)

What do you have to do to win? Simply be in the right place at the right time!

This will be my very first comment game, so I'm pretty excited for the party!

I'm planning for Thursday night, April 14th at 8:30 PM EST, but I need at least 20 people participating to even START the games. The more people I see, the more gifts I'll give away! So if you're ready for Scentsy, bring your friends and join the fun!

If you're in, comment here or go to my Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/GrowingUpJenny and click "like" on my post about the Scentsy comment game! We'll have great gift ideas for Mother's Day (yes, you may choose your own gift!), Father's Day (coming up fast!) and even the new grad (yes, dorms can get smelly!)

Hope to see you there! :)

"Key to my Pearls" Necklace Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Sun, 10 Apr 2011 18:17:00 +0000

So I'm loving all this adorable baby stuff, but as you know, I'm not fortunate enough to be a mama. If you're like me, or if your kids have passed the crayon rolls and booties stage, here's something gorgeous to glam up your life.

Today's prize is from Amber's Wicked Wonders (http://www.facebook.com/AmbersWickedWonders), and I am SO jealous of the winner!

First of all, it's a necklace with a name (the key to any writer's heart with all its promise of symbolism). Just reading the description gets my fingers itching to visit Amber's shop!

The much-talented Amber describes her page as "A variety of the beautiful and the strange...", and that's exactly what it is.

These spider earrings kind of freak me out, but Pete would have thought they were hilarious!

And check out this gorgeous "Gypsy Wings" choker!

Amber's an artist, too. Check out this amazing mixed-medium painting. The eyes haunt me...

And now for the giveaway!

"Key to my Pearls" necklace
Blue and grey pearl beads with pendant of key, rose, gem, and big blue pearl.

10.5" chain, 14.5" with pendant; toggle clasp
(notice the length--this is a choker, ladies!)
Prize Value: $12
Shipping: Free to Canada and the U.S.

Fill out the Google form here, and be sure to visit Amber's page and thank her for her beautiful necklace!

https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?hl=en&authkey=CJbF-uwH&formkey=dFY3ek5YNVdDRkxvaWQzUnM4VjB2VGc6MQ#gid=0

Win some booty for your baby!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 16:30:00 +0000

Our next giveaway is another extra-adorable one—this time for girls OR boys.

The shop, Made With Love By Caty (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Made-with-Love-by-Caty#!/pages/Made-with-Love-by-Caty/136547069703845 ) even has sweet little owls on the logo (yes, I’m already in love)!

Today’s giveaway is a little bit different—I’ll be drawing the winner on Thursday, April 14th, so walk this way and get your entries in by midnight on the 13th for your chance to win!

And what does one lucky person get? A pair of baby booties! (Love, love, love the tattoo fabric!)

The winner chooses size (0-6 months or 6-12 months) and gender, and Caty gets to pick the fabric, based on what she has on hand.

Fill out the Google form to win!

https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?hl=en&authkey=COD_9KIK&formkey=dFZzLXI4bE9UcjduQTJxWFY0RmxlWWc6MQ#gid=0

Hair Pretties Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 13:34:00 +0000

Today's first set of giveaways is tailor-made for little girls and those of us who love them.

Violet's Buds (http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/violetsbuds) has the sweetest hair clips for summer and spring, and the lovely Melanie has offered up 2 of her ripe-for-spring creations for YOU to win. Today, it's all about the butterflies, bees and flowers.

Giveaway item #1
Butterfly Sculpture Hair Clip

Snap this one up quick ladies and gentlemen, 'cause you all know how much I love my butterflies! And I've never seen one like this! The butterfly's body is actually sculpted into a spiral!

This custom "ribbon sculpture" will be made in the winner's choice of colors--the photo is just a sample--and comes attached to an alligator clip.

Value: $8
Shipping: Free to CAN and U.S.

Click here and fill out the Google form to win!

https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?hl=en&authkey=CK-X3O0F&formkey=dEF5REFvUHpqR09aVGdIcVptb0oxMEE6MQ#gid=0

Giveaway item #2

Gerbera Daisy Hair Clip

Bees are drawn to flowers!

Ring in summer with this sweet green gerbera daisy on an alligator clip. Look close for the bee detail in the middle of the flower.

One lucky winner gets to take this bee home.

Value: $8

Shipping: Free to CAN and U.S.

Click here and fill out the Google form to win!

https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?hl=en&authkey=COSw2LIJ&formkey=dE1XMTd6Mk42dnI2M0NUX1JEM0NFSmc6MA#gid=0

Violet's Buds is brand new this year, so please send her page some extra Growing Up Jenny love.

And be on the look-out for something unique for your guy--a donation from Melanie's husband's shop!

Crayons and Comfort Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 05:01:00 +0000

I'm completely in love with the name of today's shop: Azure Skies Photography & Crafts (http://www.facebook.com/AzureSkies.Photo.and.Craft).

And whether you're looking for a gift for a little girl, yourself, or the woman in your life (a Mother's Day gift, perhaps?), you'll find what you need right here.

Elizabeth, the shop's owner, is a freelance photographer of everything from landscapes to children, families and seniors. She homeschools her 3 children, and loves nature and mountain-living.

"I love to sew, craft and be creative," says Elizabeth. "I make kids crayon rolls, sundresses, doll clothes, and random household items. My latest creation is a convenience bag for knitters/crocheters. I do mostly custom orders, but am working on stocking up my store."

Visit her etsy shop for more at http://www.etsy.com/shop/AzureSkiesCrafts.

Ready to win?

Giveaway #1:
A short crayon roll (8"x5"), crayons included, in a pink floral fabric; made of 100% cotton.

Value: $8
Shipping: Free to U.S. and Canada

Fill out the Google Doc to win! https://spreadsheets0.google.com/viewform?authkey=CI3Fib4E&authkey=CI3Fib4E&hl=en&hl=en&formkey=dFdoMGUxTkxUd0hRbWVjSVZhZzFhOFE6MQ#gid=0

Giveaway #2:
ONE purple lavender eye pillow (8.5"x4")
- made from 100% cotton, white rice and locally-grown lavender (perfect for sleep and relaxation!)
- use cold or heat in microwave
- sleep is removable for washing

Value: $10
Shipping: Free to U.S. and Canada

*Note to the guys: Any woman would LOVE this! ;)

Fill out the Google Doc to win! https://spreadsheets1.google.com/viewform?hl=en&hl=en&authkey=CJvCp7UH&formkey=dEJLdTJROTh0cTBWMEUtb050NGNXaUE6MQ#gid=0

Good luck and have fun! And please tell your friends about the giveaways. :)

A Scentsy Surprise!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 01:02:00 +0000

Now for a special surprise! I'm hosting two parties to celebrate my blog's birthday, and one is with Independent Scentsy Consultant Holly Metzger.

I'm brand new to Scentsy, and I love it! I haven't lit candles for years. My place is so small that I don't have a safe place to set a candle. And even if I did, I have a large cat who'd be likely to light her tail on fire without noticing, and a smaller, psycho kitty who'd be drawn to the flame like a magnet.

I was thrilled to discover Scentsy, not only because it smells so good, but because it's just so SAFE.

In my kitchen, I have the gorgeous Taro plug-in (pretty much the only place I can put it, but it works, and my house smells delicious!)

Holly, my party hostess, is one busy woman--a single mom of two girls, ages 6 months and 2-and-a-half years old, and a full-time university student, on track to complete her Bachelors of Social Work in May 2012. Talk about filling a lot of roles!

Holly opened shop just 2 months ago, mostly because it just "felt right." "I spend all day taking care of my kids, my house, homework, and other people that I tend to lose all sense of myself," Holly says. "Selling Scentsy is something I can do for me. It feels good to devote myself to something I love--something that's just for me."

What really made Holly fall in love with Scentsy? When her 2-year-old got curious and stuck her finger into the melted wax. There were no burns, no tears, and no trips to the emergency room. "Her finger didn't even turn red!" says Holly.

Scentsy warmers use a bulb to melt scented wax, so there's no soot and no chance of fire--nothing but beautiful warmers and beautiful smells.

As a special treat for all my lovely readers and fans, this particular online party will be a Scentsy Surprise Party!

That means that everyone who buys gets a gift (a Scent Circle in April's brand new scent: Flutter), while random shoppers will win anything from a medium-sized warmer to a full-size Apex warmer to something I really, really want--a Scentsy Buddy!

The best part of this surprise is that you won't find out who gets the extra gifts I'm giving until the party ends!

Ready to score some Scentsy for yourself?

I have 2 parties--one for my Canadian friends, and one for my U.S. friends.

If you live in the U.S., click on https://hollymetzger.scentsy.us/Home and look for the party for "Growing Up Jenny."

For Canadians, go to the same link; then look at the top right corner where it says "Market." Just click and change to Canada, and again, look for "Growing Up Jenny!"

The party will last until around the end of April--then I'll be announcing the lucky winners of my special, surprise birthday gifts!

Have fun--and good luck!

Win this wallet!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 04:36:00 +0000

Just a little post-midnight post!

I bought my first hard-case wallet several years ago, and am on my second. I adore these things! A clear pocket for my driver's license, and pockets GALORE for nearly every card I need to carry. I won't even post a photo of the teeny tiny thing I struggled to extract cards from before my discovery of wallets with pockets!

The lovely Anita from PURSEonality has donated a Zion Canyon Wallet for one of my lucky readers to win.
Visit her at http://www.facebook.com/purseonality#!/PURSEonality2 for purses plus more, including wallets, sunglasses, laptop bags, overnight bags, accessories and cosmetic cases.

And here's what you can win!

- stars and studs forever!

- and pockets to fit your every need...

...with the perfect place to store your change!

Just click here and fill out the Google Form to win!

https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?hl=en&authkey=CNPjj68C&pli=1&formkey=dGdRWVpVVHRVQXVSdGpJbi1GTEZmbGc6MQ#gid=0

Let's get this party started!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 20:54:00 +0000

I wish you could all hear Pink singing away in my head right now! I'm not actually listening to her, of course. It's 3 AM and I'm sitting on the living room couch at my best friend's house. She's fast asleep, and so is her husband and their 4-year-old son.

I went to bed early, and now that I'm a wide-awake insomniac, I'm ready to introduce you to my brand new blog!

My blog was simple before: boring simple; not eye-catching streamlined and cool. And when I tried installing free templates to revive it, they cut into the words. I'd been blogging for nearly 2 years, and spurred on by challenges like reverb10, the Ultimate Blog Boost and the TLC club, I'd started posting much more often.

It was time to start again--hence my brand new custom header made by Kayla from Krafts Galore!

Happy birthday, beautiful blog!

My design had to include butterflies of course--I've loved them for years, perhaps clinging to the hope of my own transformation. And I've fallen in love with birds, too, swallows in particular. I learned the symbolism behind them during the dark days of Spring 2010, and have been planning a small tattoo ever since. For now, their silhouette will grace my blog and its Facebook page.

The swallow is a symbol of hope, renewal, transformation, and a time of transition--perhaps even a change for good in the future. These are all things I'm holding on to in this strange, painful journey. And the colors--the blues and greens--are the colors of hope, inspiration, creativity and nature; of sky, grass, lakes and oceans; of the life I hope to someday live.

As I struggle at Growing Up Jenny, with little to guide me in my journey, I now have an image; an symbol to hold on to.

I met Kayla somewhat accidently when I commented that I liked the logo on her Facebook page and she wrote back that she could make one for me. Thus began a collaboration that gave me much more than I'd been looking for. I knew Kayla had created magic when I showed the header to a friend and she said, "It's YOU!" What more could someone writing a very personal blog have asked for?

Because I love Kayla's work so much, I wanted to give each one of you the chance to experience it. And Kayla obliged--again with more than I'd expected. Starting now, you have the chance to win 5 different prizes donated by Krafts Galore!

Let's take a little tour through the shop, shall we? http://www.facebook.com/kraftsgalore1

Beginning as a toddler, Kayla chose her birthday presents from the Office Depot catalog. Could her parents' picture Krafts Galore in her future? At age 7, she began a card company with her sister, attempting to sell cards to their neighbors. I bet someone wishes they'd held on to those cards now!

Kayla began her business in February 2010 so that she could stay at home with her sweet little daughter, Kayden, now just 8 months old. Who else is in love with this sweet little face?! Definitely a reason to work at home for! :)

Here's a quick look through some of Kayla's creations...

I'm in love with this journal--paper to pour out my thoughts; a sentiment I should be reading daily ("Never regret anything that made you laugh"), and the butterfly-embossed bookmark.Just fill out my very first attempt at a Google document, and you'll be on your way to a blog you can love just as much as I love mine!

Ooo--and how about these notebooks? Available in small, large or as a set - "Dream" and "Dance to your own music."

Kayla's digital designs include everything you need for your business, from thank you notes to business cards.

Here's a set she created for Glamorous and Gorgeous Boutique:

And how about a chance to win your very own Kayla-created digital design at a discounted price?

$5 Gift Card - 2 winners!

https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?authkey=CJnvrpEN&formkey=dGZvaU5lbFJMQjhGZmthSlRnRzQ4dHc6MQ#gid=0

https://spreadsheets0.google.com/viewform?authkey=CPTx7OAD&authkey=CPTx7OAD&hl=en&hl=en&formkey=dHFpWDIwenVxWkxVM0hKaWpYcm1jOFE6MQ#gid=0

20% off an order in May

https://spreadsheets1.google.com/viewform?authkey=CPn07ogM&formkey=dDlDRkRZWmVac3F1cTRvbGxaSWV4X1E6MQ#gid=0

Free digital design with purchase - 2 winners!

https://spreadsheets2.google.com/viewform?authkey=CP6_2rAH&formkey=dEczcHpUd0t2eFZZTktzMjFjNUNXWlE6MQ#gid=0

https://spreadsheets2.google.com/viewform?authkey=CLOFttgN&formkey=dElMdkREZ19rcEFFSktaeUV3WUhhUVE6MQ#gid=0

* All Krafts Galore! prizes are valid for 14 days after winners are announced.*

Boost Your Buzz!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenny Stamos) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 08:17:00 +0000

Welcome friends! I've beeen anticipating this event for weeks!

I planned to give my blog a makeover, transfer from Blogger to WordPress, and set up an entire month's worth of giveaways to celebrate my blog's 2nd birthday and my own.

Of course things didn't quite go as planned! My attempts to migrate cost money I didn't have and stress I didn't need. In the final few days of March, I gave up and moved back to Blogger.

I planned to start the giveaways on April 1st, but am waiting to see how my blog feels on Monday. (It's rather stressed itself, and requested several personal days. How can I say no?!)

I hope you'll come back for the giveaways. We have a great mix of vendors, from veterans who sell to celebrities to those just starting their businesses.

I'm also hosting two parties throughout the month: one for Scentsy and one for Just Jewelry. The products are great and the consultant are new--I want to help them start off strong.

I'll end with a quick description of what Growing Up Jenny is all about:

From ages 7 through 30, anxiety and depression controlled me. To move forward now, it’s time to do everything I missed while growing up: to experiment; try new things; discover what I like and don't like; to find out who I am. This blog is for the part of you that hides behind your roles as wife, employee, mother, friend--your true self, that like me, may still have some growing to do. And it's for those who’ve learned and want to share their lessons with us. Come join me--it's time to grow up.

Hope to see you again soon!