Monday, November 30, 2009

Puttin Up the Tree

That's right. Home from work and happy to put up my tree, watch a rerun of The Office and just relax. I think I might retake some pics for my etsy shop and browse the new Avon catalog to see what's new.
I missed putting up my tree last year---yep, missed it! This year, I want to really try to be in the Christmas Spirit-- I will embrace the songs (as my local radio station is already playing holiday tunes only), get out my gloves, and seek out to find some candy canes. Besides, putting up my tree gets me to clean my living room.
I didn't get to do any shopping today, but I do have a few presents I might get wrapped up early. Get any good deals??

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Welcome all of my Etsy Friends

Learning Beauty isn't just learning about makeup...or Avon, for that matter. Its my daily quest to better myself.
Real Estate has been tough this year. Even though I don't talk about it much, I enjoy it and I am happy its my full time career. I do hope, one day, to open a bakery when I retire. Sounds funny, but its my dream.
Along the way, I have picked up being an Avon Lady. I have also decided to sell my fabulous creations on Etsy (www.lisaleeworks.etsy.com).
I think buying handmade and local are important in keeping your area thriving. Yep, sure we can go online to amazon or walmart and get tons of things shipped right to our door. When you use a local Rep for a world-wide company or an artist who crafts something unique and special for you, you are helping the local and American economy where it matters most---it will directly affect that one rep or artist. Sure, buying from Walmart and Amazon can save money, might be less hassle, and still helps Americans...I am not denying that. I just think it makes a greater difference locally. I also love farmers markets. I would rather go to my city's farmers' market on Saturday mornings and pay a bit more for something that was grown local (even though the grocery store might be cheaper and even closer to me in distance).

So, what I have found on Etsy is that people work hard to make items I can't find at Walmart or Target. And, I like that! I like being able to sell my crochet and hand knit items there. Maybe someone will buy one! Maybe not.
Avon: I have heard many stories from other reps on how Avon helped them through times of financial trouble. As a worldwide company, I LOVE that you have given so many people opportunities. I work a bit on my Avon business each day. I love it. I love the discount that I get. I love the smiles on peoples faces when I bring them their products. I love how I have met people and made friends. Both these companies have helped me to grow and even helped me in my full time career.

That's what I am thankful for this holiday season. Sure, I do want tons of sales, but I am proud to be a member of these companies---and I think that has helped me grow inside and out.

Cyber Monday Great Deals at Avon!

I hope everyone had a great thanksgiving! I just want to say that I have the above: Chocolate Gold 24k Gold Lipstick and the bag. This is available for only $4.99 with 2 purchases. See my online Avon Store for more information. The lipstick is fabulous and a shimmery neutral that will look great on anyone looking for some sparkle--it contains real gold! The cosmetic bag is pretty and a good size for traveling. I am actually thinking of using it as a clutch at ABs Christmas party this year. It matches my shoes!!

Other great deals you don't want to miss:
Color Trend Mini Lip Liners 69 cents each! Look for it in the Outlet Section.
Daring Curves Waterproof Mascara $1.99 (outlet section)
Nail Wear Nail Enamel $1.99 (outlet section)
Holiday Mini Hand Creams!! 59 cents each!! (Outlet Section under Bath and Body)
8 in 1 Lip Palette $4.99!
ProToGo Lipstick only $4.99 (in the makeup section)
Smooth Minerals Lipstick with SPF 15 only $4.99 (in the makeup section)
Patrick Dempsey 2 (His Newest Fragrance) gift set $22.75 (in the men's section)
In Bloom By Reese Witherspoon 3 piece gift set $22.50 (in the fragrance section)

Friday, November 27, 2009

Auto Emails and what it means to be an Independent Contractor

I sell Avon. I am an Independent Sales Rep, which means I am not an employee of Avon. I spend my own money, just like it was my own business...because it is my business, and I work very hard at it.

Today, a mass email was sent out to my customers advertising a black friday/cyber monday sale. Someone sent an email back very upset, telling me they don't like these *&$% products, and stop sending them these emails.

Funny, I thought. This person is on my customer list because they wanted a
free sample of In Bloom. They emailed me and gave me their personal
information---on their own---to get this free sample. Now, they are
mad. Besides, it clearly states on the bottom of the email that you can
unsubscribe at any time by clicking at the correct spot. I don't feel I
should do this for you. You asked me to mail you (yep, my own stamp cost
42 cents. The envelope costs 2 cents. The paper I printed my thank
you on (including the cost of ink) cost 1 cent. The sample cost me 10
cents. That is already 55 cents I invested in the possibility that you
might buy that (or another) Avon product. Now, I had over 300
requests....so guess what I spent (not including time) when I ran that free
sample promotion??? Avon did not pay for anything....because I am an Independent Contractor...just like every other Avon Lady. So, to those that are upset at me----get a life. I spent 55 cents on you plus my time. You got a free sample that you should not have asked for if you had no intention other than to get something free for the sake of getting something for nothing.

I love selling Avon. Some people don't like Avon, and that's fine. I don't like L'Oreal. I don't like Estee Lauder. I like Clinique. I like Maybelline. I don't like Cover Girl. Everyone has their own preferences and everyone is entitled to that.

However, if you need to be rude and obscene to someone, you are not making your point. You are looking like nothing but an Ass.

It does not hurt my feelings to unsubscribe from my emails. They are sent automatically. I, myself, get tons of emails everyday (I average over 200 in the inbox, not including spam, daily). Most are ads from places I subscribed. When I no longer want them, I check 'unsubscribe'. No harm done.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

happy thanksgiving everyone!

That's all I had to say today.

Now, back to work.

I am knitting a new hat that will be up in my Etsy store on Friday.

Only a few days to get in on my monthly AVON grab bag giveaway!! To be entered, just order something (online or inperson) during November. Dec 1 the winner and the prize will be revealed!!
Its the perfect time of year to get these goodies!! Someone will have a very nice Christmas Holiday---all items are Avon/mark and the total value is over $30!!!

shop at my Avon store online-- www.cpavoncalling.com

Now, for reals...back to work!

Monday, November 23, 2009

Lunchtime

I brought pink and white striped scarf to work on today at work during my down times. So far, my etsy shop has had only one sale, but it was a scarf. I am hoping to have a few more sales before Christmas. This one is really cute, so I don't think it will last long!! Keep your eye out to see it when it posts later today.

Looking for the perfect accessory to your make up routine for the holiday party circut? I have two great and inexpensive items---
Mark Good Glowing Blush: I have Chica, and I swipe a gentle amount over my cheeks before my translucent powder. Its great-- composed of different colors for a nice, natural blush.
Ultra Color Rich 24K Gold Lipstick!: This has little specks of real gold in it!! Comes in different colors. I have tried many different shades, and I love them all. I love the sparkly gold when I'm out at night!!

Friday, November 20, 2009

Busy days ahead!

Okay, its that time of year. I am ready for it. I try to crochet or knit every night before bed so I can add more items to my etsy shop. I think Avon has awesome and cheap stocking stuffers and great gift ideas (Reese Witherspoons In Bloom is yummy!).
I am showing homes left and right. Hopefully, I will be busy with my prime time job next year. This year, it wasn't as busy as I would like it to have been.

I love AB. Love him. He is so good to me. Yesterday, we had a junk food night of frozen pizza, ding dongs, and hot cocoa. We watched The Office and Man v. Food and went to bed before 10. The best part? Snuggling. I'm a pretty lucky lil tater tot.

Tomorrow...I have to meet with a client and go over some contracts, prepare for an open house, drop off Avon books at a few grocery stores and other secret places that get me good customers, sit at my open house, knit a hat or scarf, do laundry, and hopefully make AB dinner.

I'm trying to get as much done as possible, because the rest of the year will be hectic. Managing a few businesses isn't as easy as I thought it would be!!

I did find a fab gift for AB--- if you have someone who loves beer--- check out this etsy store: thebeersoapco. They make different soaps from different beers. Looks like a good stocking stuffer to me---only $5/bar is even more tempting.

Awesome Dollar Deals This Week!!

Please visit my online Avon store for these great deals!!
  • Naturals Body Wash/Shower Gel $2
  • Eye Makeup Remover only $1
  • Glazewear Lip Gloss 2 for $5
  • Glimmersticks Eye, Brow, and Lip Liners 2 for $5
  • Bubble Baths 2 for $8!
  • Haiku Fragrance set (3 items for $9)
  • Nailwear $2.99

Clearance-- click on the Outlet link on my website (www.cpavoncalling.com)

  • Brazil Beat fragrance Shower Gel and Body Lotion $2.99 each
  • Imari Fragrance Shower Gel and Body Lotion $2.99 each
  • Advance Techniques Smoothing Shampoo only $1.49!!
  • 4 pack of "Island " Flip Flops $7.99 (8 bucks for 4 pairs of flip flops in different colors!!!)

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Two days no sleep

I don't know why, but I guess I am stressed out. I haven't slept for the past two nights.
Any suggestions?

Friday, November 13, 2009

Hello Weekend!

I am so happy its Friday. Even though my laptop is weakening by the second and I do have to work tomorrow (for a bit), I am so happy the weekend is here. My home is sadly needing some attention...life is messy and so am I.

Avon Fans: Avon has TONS of neat gifts at great prices--- many items are under $10. Order by December 15 for Christmas!!
Don't forget to visit my online Avon store at www.cpavoncalling.com.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

As if I didn't have enough on my plate...

Well, last week I started my own Etsy shop! As soon as it gets cold and frosty out, I start knitting and crocheting. This year, I decided to offer them up for sale to make extra money for gifts and to send some needed items to our local Humane Society.

Right now, I have a few scarves and some dishcloths, but I hope to add a few more items over the weekend.

Visit me at www.lisaleeworks.etsy.com and become a fan!

Monday, November 2, 2009

NOVEMBER GIVEAWAY DETAILS

November's giveaway is a mystery grab bag! What will you get??? Well, you will have to wait until Dec. 1st for that!!!
The giveaway will be worth at least $30 (possibly more!!) and full of fun goodies for yourself, stuff to giveaway and even a good selection of samples.
How to enter:
Just make a purchase on my Avon online storefront or in person with me during the month of November. Limit one entry per person. Winner will be announced on Dec. 1 and will be shipped or dropped off the first week of December.
This offer is only good thru me, Lisa, your avon rep. Not good or valid with any other Avon rep or from any other avon rep's online store.

What's good this month?? Here are the current dollar deals...hurry, limited time only!!
  • Naturals Holiday Shower Gels only $1.99 (in great scents like Sugar & Walnut, Raspberry, and Black Cherry & Nutmeg)
  • Holiday Mini Hand Creams only 89 cents!!
  • Holiday Mini Bubble Baths only 89 cents!!
  • Holiday Lip Balms only 69 cents!
  • Rare Pearls Elegant Gift Set only $14.99
  • Color Trend Sweet Shine Lipgloss only $1.69
  • Ideal Shade Fresh and Light Foundation only $1.99
  • In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon Gift Set only $39.99

Back Home Again

AB (amazing boyfriend) and I had a great time in Las Vegas. It was a good trip. We didn’t win big or anything like that, but we did eat at some great places.
I did learn a little:
Always bring your Avon 99cent lip balm with you! AB refused to use my strawberry Avon lip balm (for fear his lips might look pink and glossy) and ended up paying $4.30 for a Chapstick in the hotel giftshop.
Anew Reversalist PM moisturizer is a skin saver! I brought mine, and we both moistured up before bed each night. By morning, our skin felt refreshed and didn’t look haggered, hung-over, or tired!! It might be for the 40+ crowd, but it is amazing and worth it for any age when you are out late for a few nights in a row!!
A small wristlet is the way to go if you don’t want to carry a lot of stuff with you. I made one with a remnant of fabric from JoAnn’s, a $2 zipper, and 50 cents worth of interfacing. It cost less than $5 to make and I got a few compliments!
Dr. Scholl’s shoe inserts are amazing and a must for Vegas! Trust me, if you are going to do a lot of walking…try these. I bought one pair of Gel Insoles and trimmed them a bit smaller than my shoe size. Even in my comfy loafers, I noticed a difference.
When you are drunk and its only 1 pm, drink some water and have a yogurt cup. Bally’s had a huge yogurt parfait with granola, vanilla yogurt, and layers of mixed berries for $4.99. It was expensive for yogurt, but well worth it. We shared the parfait and took a small cat nap before going back out for the evening. I truly believe that one snack saved me from being sick!
The slot machines like smaller bills. I won more when I put in a five or a ten. Twenties always lost.
Bally’s and Paris are my faves. I love them. I feel at home there. They are our home away from home.
New York was also fun.
The Mirage doesn’t have a cocktail waitress in sight during the day.
Good Cabbies always tell great stories.
Always split 8s.

Sunday, November 1, 2009

October Giveaway Winner!

This month's winner of my Avon Giveaway is Nancy from MA.
Nancy placed an online order and will soon be receiving a great giftbag!!

You can win, too!
Just place an order from my online Avon store (www.cpavoncalling.com) or in person (if you live in my area) and that's it. I have one giveaway per month. Limit one entry per month, regardless of amount of purchases in that month.
Winners will be notified by mail or in person.
This giveaway is only valid with me-- no other Avon Rep.