Small Business Saturday is Here!

So, I didn't get to do half of what I wanted to with SBS this year due to all the insanity of getting our home ready for the holidays, taking care of the kids and traveling quite a bit. But that doesn't mean it's any less important. This Saturday, every single one of us have the chance to help make a difference for a small business owner out there, and in turn, the economy. The vast majority of jobs in our country are made up of small businesses, which means most of our friend's and family's livelihoods depend on the health  of small businesses. And they can't do business without customers. Pretty logical progression there.

As you all know, my favorite type of small businesses are ladies working with direct sales companies to bring income directly into their home. These companies now go far beyond just make-up and kitchen supplies; there is literally something for everyone nowadays. Which means you have no excuse for not shopping from one of your friends or family members this year for at least one person on your list.

I've done this many times before, but once again, here are just a few of the benefits of "shopping small."

• Better customer service
• Customizable  gifts for those on your list
• Direct positive affect on a family's income which, at this time of year, is vital. 

So this Saturday, and maybe even on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, shop small. Because you can make a big difference when you shop small.

Here's the list from the Small Business Support tab directly copied and pasted here for easier access. When you order something from any of these ladies, come back here and tell me what you got, so we can encourage more people to "shop small."

Altered to Perfection by Sherry Morales - hand-made, customized journals and vintage party decor
Avon by Ariel Lee 
Creative Memories by Catherine Morrison 
Jamberry Nails by Deanna Sweidel 

Lia Sophia by Ashley Judd
Kittangle by Marilyn Marie - Customized Jewlery
Lindt Chocolate by Monique Saucedo
Mary Kay by Kristen Lila
Missy's Musings by Missy Douthit - Crocheted hats and adorable bows for little girls and mommy's, too!
Purposeful Homemaking by Becky Zale - Healthy Living and Homeschooling blog and store
Scentsy by Missy Douthit
Simply Said Designs by Charity Guidinger

Thirty-One Gifts by Kara Wardell
Trendy Tadpoles by Melissa Borden - Kid's items from clothing to loveys to jewelry and other accessories
Uppercase Living by Kristi Balding
Usborne Books by Kristi Balding

Velata by Missy Douthit

Going Shopping!

Until just recently, Aria's shopping experience existed only of staring at the top of her carrier and occasionally holding my coupon organizer on her lap. Not much fun for someone who likes to be in the middle of things... But NOW, she has her cart cover! She can sit in the cart, play with her blankie and toys and be able to see EVERYTHING! And she gives it her honest-to-goodness best effort to indeed see everything; she's always whipping her head around, talking to and smiling at people, and reaching out to touch things she finds interesting. It's like a whole new world has opened up to her. The grocery store is now her favorite place in this world :)

Her first trip in her new cover - to Lowe's. She loved the fan section, touching the rugs and carpets and looking at new refrigerators :)