Step 1: Acceptance (and MY first Giveaway!)

I had set myself up BIG TIME with a Month of Martha. I really worked hard for the month before trying to print recipes, do meal plans, grocery lists, coupon cutting, scheduling days and activities and trying to be something I'm not. To all of you mothers who actually carry through with the whole "Martha" image, I commend you. It is not an easy task. While I do appreciate some of the information I've learned and changes I've seen in myself, I know this isn't for me.

My days are jam packed with Dylan, the hubs, army, "projects"... (what else do I do??), I think it's important for all of us to step back from the "ideal image of mothering" and focus on what really matters to each of us. It is always different. Your image may be safe-sided, daring, or just plain interesting. Take time to embrace those things that make you and yours unique. Don't try to change because you think others want this from you. Do it for you!

Here's my "Do it for me" thingy.

I know you can't really see all the detail and what it is, or what's going on - that's the point. Sorry. But this here lil do-dad is my latest creation/project. This is the Wish Jar from my new company "When You Wish." Inside is tiny origami stars. Each one is tedious work in itself, but makes a stunning collection. This Wish Jar shown is just my little first experiment, so it's not complete, nor is it the final idea. I'm posting this fabulous treat to generate a little buzz. Also, I want feedback.

This jar isn't you-get-what-you-see kind of thing. I can randomize patterns/colors for stars. I'm making little signs to hang on the inside. The "uncustomized" Wish Jars will have a sign hanging on the inside that says "Wish" followed by the dangly stars. If you choose to customize your Wish Jar, I will make a banner for your wish. Your wish could be directed towards a child about your dreams for them, or can be as silly as "I wish you would quit picking your nose" for one of your friends. HA. It's all whatever your brain can "wish" for. (Sorry, I had to). The lid of the jar can be customized with colors, glitter, stickers, whatever co-ordinates with your theme, as well as being left plain. I'm also coming up with holiday themed jars, baby shower jars, graduation jars.. yes, the possibilities are endless.

Here's the deal - From now (August 26 2009) until September 4 (2009) at 8p.m. (Mountain Time), I want your comments, suggestions, hopes and dreams (for Wish Jar critiques) to come spilling in. I said I was going to do a giveaway, so here's your chance for a one-of-a-kind freebie! If you are randomly selected as a winner of the Wish Jar, I will design a piece just for you. These bad boys are not going to go on sale until October (maybe even later). I will be sure to let you know all the details of the When You Wish shop opening. I can't wait to hear what you all think about it.

*BONUS* If you become a follower of the blog (which is posted on the left side), you get an additional entry in the drawing. If you subscribe to my blog (also posted on the left side), please send me an e-mail (click the contact me letter on the left side) and let me know you subscribe and you will also receive another entry. That's a total of THREE entries per person. Take advantage of it!