Milk and Cookeez

The After Christmas Itch!

2009-12-29T13:16:00.002-05:00

Do you know what this is? Do you know how it feels? Well, I have it, and it won't stop. I want to create and design and make-make-make.
Most people who make things, whether for business or hobby, can understand my plight. Now you may be wondering why I don't just do it, let me tell you why.

http://hippieholidays.eventbrite.com/
I like to work in peace, not quiet peace, but peace-unfortunately having 3 children running around after Christmas is not exactly the peace I crave. Santa was good enough to bring fun, involving, creative presents, but they don't seem to be keeping the Holiday Joy in check.
Since the peace is at a minimum, I can't do what I want to do and my mind is made to wait on all of the ideas and projects I have planned, hence the itch.
What do you do to keep sibling peace in your house-my unnerved brain needs to know.

May You have a Stress Free, Joyous Holiday!

2009-12-22T21:50:00.003-05:00

I promised myself that I wouldn't spend too much time this holiday season on work, but hey it's the nature of the beast, aka me :)

I've been trying to get my wholesale catalog together, because I am happy to report, it's wanted :) That has been taking up a lot of my time, in addition to some, "Last Minute Shoppers", (which I myself am guilty of and will continue to be until tomorrow night).

Right now, I am working on an Expedited order to California and attempting to get my own Christmas presents done.

I made a few soapies for my Besties (Best Friend, Best Gals, & Best Back Door Neighbors) what do you think?

For my Neighbors, back door and next door, this Snowflake Trio scented in Grapefruit and Cherry-it smells yummy!

For My Go to Gal, and Super Bestie, this pair of Lemon-Lavender Mittens with dead sea salt. The color is a bit off, but they are a "Wooly" colored purple with pigment flecks and the sea salt makes them look "wooly" adorable :)

And For my Insane Mommies Group-these Strawberry Scrubbie soaps, full of dried strawberry seeds, strawberry powder, and the most mouth watering strawberry fragrance. It smells spot on to Smuckers Strawberry preserves, my ultimate fav. with PB&J!

At this point I am ALMOST done! I have to make a Gingerbread Man for my Mother, who will not receive it until after Christmas :( Thankfully, it's just a little extra, the real gift is on it's way :)

It is with this update that I bid goodnight, but I wanted to say Merry Christmas and the Happiest of Holidays to you!

Thank you for your time and voice, I truly appreciate you all!

A Mammalicious Finds Review

2009-12-08T09:32:00.002-05:00

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing Kind Living Designs.
Check out my review over at Mammalicious Finds.

Kind Living Designs is a great company, Owned by Kristie Piacine.
Kristie makes fun and functional, personalized products for kids and big kids, like me :)

My Mammalicious Finds Review

2009-12-08T08:52:00.003-05:00

Check out My latest review over at Mammalicious Finds.
It's a great cookbook for Busy Mom's.
Make Ahead Meals For Busy Moms, by Jane Doiron

The author, has also offered this awesome cookbook for a giveaway, don't forget to enter!

Gingerbread all over the place

2009-12-07T12:45:00.002-05:00

This little guy tried to break free, but I caught him and "baked" him in my new Suzy.
He's on his way South for some warm Florida sun,

Happy and Jolly and ready for clean, fun.

Merry Christmas, little man!

All that I can say about our new website is WOW!

2009-12-04T23:52:00.003-05:00

My magical website designer has done it this time.
Please feast your eyes upon our beautiful website. www.milkandcookeez.com
Amy has captured the essence of both me and what Milk and Cookeez is all about and turned that into a store.
She is on the level of what a Psychologist can do for your mind, bring the real you out and make it known.
That is what she did and I am ecstatic.
Milk and Cookeez has definitely changed since it's inception, but with growth and establishment comes maturity and insight. Amy has captured this perfectly.
If you get the chance, hop on over, and let me know what you think.

Thanks,
Tammy

A Birthday Surprise for Soapylove turns out to be a impromptu tutorial.

2009-12-03T23:20:00.006-05:00

I was feeling, creative the other night, and I decided to try my hand at a whipped soap/frosting that Debbie Chialtas of Soapylove had made for a Soap Queen Tutorial.
It just so happened to also be Debbie's birthday so I sent her a pic. of my soap with a Birthday greeting on it.
I never would have guessed that my little experiment would turn into something worth talking about.Debbie's Facebook page has been ablaze with questions, answers, and more questions.Debbie took to her blog today and wrote about my wee cupcake.
I'm just honored and amazed that my experimental cupcake has caused such a flutter.I just hope that my "recipe" can be improved upon-like any one who has a creative streak, there is always room for improvement.I am loving hearing about all of work being done on this wonderful frosting that Debbie made.
Happy Birthday Debbie, if only it was edible :)
PS-The soap base is pumpkin spice and the frosting is pumpkin cookie, with sparkly jojoba beads, and a candle.

The Pink Tree Needs You!

2009-12-01T13:48:00.004-05:00

You may or may not know that I have a Blog that is called The Pink Tree.
The Pink Tree is a Product review site that sends ALL of the products it reviews to charity. We have secured a charity, the Domestic Violence Center of Cleveland, Oh.
I urge you to please visit the blog and offer something for The Pink Tree. Thank you.
The Blog below is a copy from my most recent post @ The Pink Tree.

Calling all Vendors and Makers of Beautiful Handmade Gifts.

You are requested to PLEASE donate ASAP!!!
The Pink Tree is now donating it's wonderful products to the Domestic Violence Center of Cleveland, Ohio.
I spoke with The Administration of the Domestic Violence Shelter today, and they mentioned that they house many children in their shelter, which makes me tear up knowing that my children will be spending their holidays in our home, safe from the harm of the world, in which they are a part of.
They are currently holding a Gift Drive for Children and their Mom's. Each child and Mother will choose from the gifts that are set up in a "Shop" theme.

They are looking for NEW products that are giftable. (for Women and Children)

They also always in need of:
• Deodorant
• Shampoo (full size)
• Conditioner (full size)
• Body wash
• Travel Sizes items (soap,
shampoo, conditioner, etc)
• Hair Combs, Hair Brushes
and Baby Shampoo and Soap
on a regular basis.
I hope that you can help, I know that I'll be sending my lollipopz soaps for the kiddies.

Happy Holidays and Thank you for seeing the urgency in my request.
I will be going to the Shelter next week, 12-9. If you can something immediately, I would greatly appreciate it. I will photograph your product and post it ASAP!

I'm NOT Happy!

2009-11-30T22:31:00.003-05:00

I am so very frustrated! I need to find my 2008 taxes and they are "misfiled".
Since I can't find those I just need to get some important paperwork from the Strong Box, no prob.
I go to open the box-the key is missing from it's-"I NEVER move this key" spot!
I'm loosing my mind, but at the same time I am so angry, why is nothing EVER where it is supposed to be?

I'm sure you all know that I try to see the good in things, and seldom have a real problem doing so. So here is the upside to all of this-I found my Honey, Burts Bees lip balm and my ipod earphones. At least I'm only 97% peeved right now!
Off to look for those dang keys!

Thanksgiving

2009-11-23T23:28:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving is in 3 days, really?
OMG-I have soooo much to do!

My First Boutique was Fan Tastic!

2009-11-22T20:42:00.004-05:00

Warning: Lots of Pictures.

I am happy to report that I made it through my first Holiday Show with Super Success.

It was an excellent experience and heck-I even made money :)

I met loads of people that we really excited about my products and a few that just kept coming back to look and touch, since that was completely allowed.

I gave out a little bit of education about detergents, Parabens, and Phthalates, but overall, everyone was more interested in the look and smell of everything.

I had 2 signs, 1 on each end of the table, letting customers know that everything was non edible.

The feedback I received was excellent, from MEN (Yes, Men), Women, children, and my fellow Vendors. My awesome friend Sharon who helped me, said that she heard quite a few people, at the other end of the boutique, talking about my stand, eeeeek :)

My most favorite thing was a man who came to the table. He looked at everything while I spoke with a woman. When I was done with this customer I asked if he needed any help. he proceeded to tell me that his wife, who has just really started her own B&B business, sent him to see me (She was doing a show elsewhere). I was EXTREMELY flattered, and humbled.

I think that it takes events like this to make you realize, while you love what you do, and you know your family and friends also like/love it, it takes a new face to really drive the point home, that you are affecting others. It really is a superb feeling, I hope that you enjoy this feeling sometime!

Alright, since I know you are reading this and you want the juicy tidbits, here you go.

I was told that if you make 3x the entry fee, you have done good-if you reach 6 you've done Excellent. While I didn't reach excellent, I did above and beyond 3 to a 4.5 almost 5. I say almost 5 because I spent some $ shopping :)

I was also told that the amount of people coming through was lower than expected, and it was the 1st time for this country Club.

So-I think that I did very well. I made lots of contacts, I sold LOTS of products, & I loved it.

Overall, the stress, worry, and sleepless nights were worth it!

What did I learn?

1. Have a little table to do packaging and receipts

2. Bring lots of Shopping bags (I have only 2 left-I was getting worried.)

3. Eat before! While the Club served lunch, I had 1 bite of a sandwich. (Not that I was hungry, I was running on endorphins.)

4. Be comfortable! Both in what you say, and what you wear. I was nervous for my 1st few sales, I'm not much of a "Hi How are you person?" I like to make people comfortable, and not attack them. However, this was only in the beginning, after the 1st half hour, I couldn't approach everyone, it was too busy :) As far as clothing-I wore a white long sleeve tee, jeans, my Rocket Dog sneaks and my "Piglet" scarf (Piglet from Winnie the Pooh colors). While I am all for "Looking the part" I am not a jewelry salesperson, I don't sell expensive "elite" products. I am the Boss-I felt that a new, unstained, white tee & jeans was presentable, yet approachable-even in a Country Club! Yep, that is my uniform, comfort and casual. Normally I wear my apron, but I need one that lets customers know what Milk and Cookeez is (without being embroidered w/ M&C) I want something fun and sassy, I'm still on the lookout for one.

If you know of anyone who makes 1/2 aprons that might work for me, let me know, TY

5. That I can do this! I have to do this, if I ever hope to own a shoppe.

6. Bring more than you think you will need! I ran out of a few products, but, I also pitched my website and my Free Local Pick up. It was OK, but next time bring more of the popular items.

Thanks for reading and enjoy the pictures.

-Tammy

See the Sweet Space Room Spray on the top shelf. While it smells great, it didn't sell. make sure you look for it on Black Friday!

The Gift Buckets and sets.

The Cupcakz, everyone loved the idea that they had soap on top.

My beloved Fruitcake Soap. This thing smells Fantastic!!!

Slices will be available on Black Friday.

Now you want to know what's up with Black Friday-here are some of the details:
What I have left from the show is Fresh & I believe in Fresh. So, you need to follow me on Facebook. What does that mean, you ask (I know you are asking!). Well, on Thanksgiving I will be posting a CODE on FB for my Black Friday SALE.

*Newsletter readers please note, the CODE will only be on FB.

Directions will be included with the code on Thanksgiving.

SALE Products can be seen above in the pictures. I want to sell my Fresh items and restock for next year.

Click on the Become a Fan box on the Facebook link to the right-you will not want to miss it-this isn't a tiny discount, it's a good one!

Did You see Twilight?

2009-11-20T10:15:00.003-05:00

Did you see the movie yet?
Did you wait in line for ump-teen hours?
Are you still asleep?

If The Hub was in town, I would have went to see it!
Alas, he was away so I stayed awake until 3 am all for nothing.
Actually, I just couldn't sleep (probably because he was away).

Thing is, I like these movies. I haven't read the books, but I liked the 1st movie.
My Niece LOVES the books and movies-she's been waiting for the movie for over a year now.I like any book that gets a kid to read (well not just any book, you know what I mean).
She came to visit 2 Summers ago, when the last book came out. She was here for a week and finished the book in 3 days.
Last night, my sister, my Mother, my Niece and her 6 friends went and waited for the Midnight Showing. So did my friend Amy, Who happily updated me from the West Coast, I imagine that there were tons of swooning teens, tweens, and Mom's. Possibly even a boy or 2, waiting to be the first to see the General Release.
So, if you Sparkle, or Howl-leave me comment and give me the rundown-I really want to know is it Edward or is it Jacob?
Or as Dallas says, Jakeward.

Sassy Pink Boutique SALE Ends on Nov 18th

2009-11-16T10:45:00.002-05:00

Please Head on over to Sassy Pink Boutique as the Shop is closing on the 18th.
Items are going quickly.
Personally, I'm going to miss Sassy Pink, as Amy was my first online friend when I started Milk and Cookeez.
She has been a HUGE help to me throughout the past year and a half. She has not just been a Mentor on the internet and in business, but a great friend.
The funny thing is, Amy and I have spent HOURS writing to each other, yet have not spoken 1 word to each other over the phone or in person (we are on opposite ends of the USA).
It is my hope to someday meet Amy and possibly work with her in the future-that would be sooo fun :)
So, it is with a heartfelt Goodbye I say "Good Day" to Sassy Pink Boutique, your online presence will be missed. Enjoy your family and your newest endeavors.
You can keep up with Amy over at Mammalicious Finds and Mammalicious Mamma.
Ps. Now get your Sassy Pink Boutique Goodies HERE

Custom Made Soapopz for my Scarlet Hawks Cheerleaders

2009-11-16T10:19:00.004-05:00

We had our Hudson Hawks Football and Cheerleading Banquet yesterday and I made each of my little lovelies a Soapopz in a blue color w/ cosmetic glitter, I used a Fruit Loopz fragrance and made custom labels.

The girls loved them-Personally, I am loving the fragrance, it smells EXACTLY like a bowl of Fruit Loops Cereal.

Are you looking for something Custom?

Contact me and we'll see if I can make it work :)

I made something edible!

2009-11-08T18:18:00.004-05:00

I attempted to get fancy-fancy for my daughter's 10th Birthday, Slumber Party.

Her theme was Ice Cream.

It was cute, noting fancy.

We kicked it Old School!

We had Pizza, my ice cream cone cupcakes, went to the movies, came back and had make your own sundaes, and set up in the "Just about" finished basement. There were 6, 9-11 year olds.

Google stats on the party, 2 arguments, 1 bedtime cryer, 1 that didn't need any more sugar, 1

red head :), and 100,000 giggles.

I chose to say on theme and make the cupcakes-I know that these had been done since I was a kid, a looooong time ago, but this was my 1st attempt.

Some of you know that I decorate bath products to look like edible goodies-did you ever think,

WHY I do this?

Well, it's because I am a horrid baker-sure they might look good, but they taste yucky! No joke!

I am baking challenged!

So, this year my BFF Betty C. and I got together and made fudge chocolate Ice cream cone cupcakes. They were-OK.

I LOVE cake Ice Cream cones, but they weren't so good with real cake in them.

The frosting on the other hand-scratch butter cream was HEAVENLY!!! I can make a mean butter cream, if nothing else :)

What do you think?

Holiday Offerings

2009-11-06T13:11:00.003-05:00

Happy Holidays!?

I know that it is a bit early yet, but I'm preparing for a Holiday Boutique on the 21st and I am feverishly preparing for it.

This is my Crowning Jewel.

I love the elegance that it has, it is such a wonderful looking gift.

I went and bought thick and cushy washcloths and tied my Peppermint Bark Soapopz in a big, satin, red bow.

What a great Hostess gift or the perfect "different" gift for your favorite teacher (we all know how teachers don't like germs).

Best Part, this is a natural soap base, no detergents and no phthalates-just the way we like it here.

These gift sets are VERY Limited and won't even be posted on the website.

However, if you are looking for a Peppermint Bark Soapopz, click HERE.

Happy EARLY Holidays.

SALEHUGEGIGANTIC

2009-11-05T09:59:00.006-05:00

Head on over to Sassy Pink Boutique.

Sassy Pink will be closing on November 18th.

They closing out lots of "sweet" baby "treats" as well as Mommy "treats".

Do you know anyone expecting a baby that would love one of Amy's adorable creations?

You have to go and visit.

Get that Holiday Shopping Started!

RU A LUSH? {Fan}

2009-11-05T09:40:00.003-05:00

I love Lush! Shhhh.. don't tell.

While I feel a bit claustrophobic in their local shop, I love it.

I love the smell, I love the vibrancy of the shop, and I love the piles of handcrafted soap just waiting to come home with me.

You are probably thinking, I can make my own, but I have one question to ask,

What tastes better, the sandwich that you made or the sandwich (using the same ingredients) that someone else made?

I prefer the latter.

Not to mention, Lush has this one product that I adore,

The following is directly from Lush:
Vanilla sweetie to create a yummy sugar high
With comforting vanilla for your sweet tooth, Creamy Candy bubble bath is delicious (with no calories) and scrumptiously scented to make even the biggest sourpuss smile. So if you know some people who need cheering up, take a trip to the candy store and re-acquaint them with their inner child. They might wonder why they ever grew up. retails for $6.65 an is 3.5 oz

This is the sweetest smelling bubble bath-I LOVE it!
You all know how I feel about sweets!

Halloween @ Milk and Cookeez HQ

2009-11-04T21:52:00.003-05:00

The cookeez and I celebrated Halloween in true M&C style-we loaded up for the neighborhood walk. It's ALL about the candy, isn't it?

We have Me-looking Oh so lovely, in my last minute costume, as "The Hub, on Sundays".

Then we have the Hub as, my personal Guitar Hero!

The "Oh so pushing the limits" Angel.

Jango Fett

and Yo a ya Yoda.

We made it for about an hour and that was it-personally, I have had my fill of, dare I say, chocolate. Although, I am still lovin' the DOTS.

The ONLY Fruitcake that you will keep.

2009-10-28T16:24:00.003-04:00

I decided that I wanted to make a loaf of fruitcake for my upcoming shows.
Since, I have never wanted to even try eating a fruitcake, I decided that I should just make a soap fruitcake.
Let's think of the similarities:
They are both hard, although I think the "edible" fruitcake will last longer.
They can both cleanse-1 inside and 1 outside
Finally, they both look pretty, but taste terrible, at least that is what I am told.
This is a mini-loaf, it weighs 1 lb and uses a blend of 8 different oils, both essential and fragrance oils for it's fragrance.
It comes wrapped in cling wrap and in a tin pan as shown.
It will have a nice big red ribbon-Perfect for gift giving!
All that you need to do is slice it and serve it to your guests.

What do you think?

Comments Please

2009-10-25T19:11:00.003-04:00

Hello :)
I have a question:
This is for everyone, soapers, nonsoapers, users of natural handmade soap, and users of Grocery Store soap.
Would you pay $9.50-$9.75 for a 7 oz bar of natural soap make with oils, butters, and essential oils?
Please leave your comments-My mind REALLY Needs to Know!

The reason I need to know, I spent $9.50 on a bar of soap today and I'm thinking that I paid way too much.

UPDATE: the ingredients are listed in the comments section

I've Been Featured!!

2009-10-24T11:08:00.002-04:00

The Lovely and Uber Talented Erica, at The Bonnie Bath Co. has done a wonderful feature on me.
It is a wonderful and super uplifting article, if you get the chance please hop on over and take a peak.
Erica is in the process of updating her shop website, but please bookmark her site, she makes wonderful Bath and Body products.
This information is from Erica's Profile:
She is the Owner of The Bonnie Bath Co., she makes handcrafted soaps, bath and body products and candles. She is also the Column Editor for the Saponifier Magazine, Forum Moderator and a volunteer for the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild as well as the Scottish American Society of South Florida. Regional webmaster for FUSTA and above all els she is happily married with one beautiful child.

Woot Hoo 100

2009-10-20T22:39:00.002-04:00

I would like to send out a big Woot Hoo-and How Do You Do to Kris!

Thanks for being my 100th Follower.

I'm giving my "Miss America Wave" and gladly accepting my beautiful Rose Bouquet.

Kris-YOU ROCK-thank for joining the craziness that is me, my life, and my business.
I'll try to keep it interesting not only for you but for my other 99 followers.

You are all the best and I thank you for checking me out-without you all I would be some crazy lady writing my world down to me.

100 is a wonderfully even-and awesome 3 digit number.

OMG-Get Your Cupcake on-Literally, from Fred Flare

2009-10-19T11:55:00.000-04:00

I admit it-there are fun online shops that intrigue me.
They send me loopy when I find every kitschy, fun, item that I never knew I had to have.
My favorite of these sites is Fred Flare.
Look at this Cupcake Beanie Hat-I so need a new hat this winter, and this is just the ticket!

Stay tuned for more Fred Flare Fun Finds-there are a bunch!
Good thing my birthday is in a couple weeks :)

Gift Baskets-Yes You Can!

2009-10-14T16:51:00.004-04:00

Here at Milk and Cookeez I am always asked if I make Gift Baskets. The easiest answer is no we do not offer Gift Baskets.

Not because we are anti-gift basket. (Personally, I LOVE getting a gift basket, so many little presents all in one box/basket, very fun.)
We just don't carry all of the products that you would like to find in a gift basket.
Occasionally, we do offer Buckets of Milk and Cookeez goodies-these gift buckets can be found at Charity Events and our Open Houses, but we do not usually offer Gift Baskets/Buckets.
That being said-if a customer requests a Handpicked Product and would like us to make up a special gift-we have done it and will continue to do it, we just don't advertise this service.

If you are still reading-I will direct you to a site that will give you exactly what you need.
Lesley, of Laguna Beach Cottage Shoppe will make you a Quality Gift Basket with lots of different Milk and Cookeez products.
The best part, if you are on the West Coast-shipping will be easier than if you order from me directly!

Get your Gifting Needs satisfied in Ohio or California-the choice is yours, Milk and Cookeez is now yummy bath time fun across the USA!