Tattoo Etiquette

I have a growing number of tattoos and have had many different experiences with people talking to me about them. Here are just a few common courtesies or a "what not to do" list when it comes to approaching people about their tattoos.

|| Touching ||

DO NOT TOUCH! I repeat...DO NOT TOUCH! Even if they are simply on the arm please resist the urge to walk up and touch it. Also don't adjust an article of clothing to see it better. Yes, I have had a customer when I use to waitress see a little bit of my tattoo sticking out from under my sleeve and without my permission pushed my shirt sleeve up to see the rest. It was very rude and out of line to do so without my permission.

|| Meanings ||

I get asked this plenty of times and though I don't mind answering this question do not expect there to be a meaning behind it. There is nothing wrong with asking the question but we've heard it a million times and not everyone has a story to tell. To some people it's just an expression of art to some it's a memory and both are fine. So please don't give me a look of shame because I don't have an inspiring story as to why I have a cat tattoo on my ankle...I just wanted a cat tattoo on my ankle. 

|| But When You're Old ||

The whole,"What are you going to think about these when you're old?" question is well...old. When that time comes I would imagine I'd have other things to worry about besides my tattoos. Plus if you really want to know I think I'll look bad ass, wrinkly, but bad ass!

|| Pain Tolerance || 

I get asked a lot, "Did it hurt? Do you think if I get it [insert area] it'll hurt?" and honestly I can't give a straight answer. For me it didn't hurt too bad but I can't speak for everyone. It depends on how well you can tolerate pain plus where you get it. I have both of my feet tattooed which is said to be one of the most painful spots and despite the outline it felt no different from getting my arm tattooed. So you can't go off someone elses tattoo experience for your own pain tolerance.

|| Price ||

Asking about the price of someone's tattoo can be a little tricky because it's based on the artist and their rates. I personally wouldn't ask someone else how much their tattoo cost them so I would hope others would do the same. However you get what you pay for which means there is no such thing as a "great deal" when it comes to tattoos. 

|| Staring ||

For the most part my tattoos are covered up but when I wear certain dresses or shoes they are visible. Though I expect people to look at my tattoos doesn't mean I want someone to stand there and just lock eyes with my thighs (hehe it rhymes) Anyway if you like them feel free to nicely introduce yourself and tell me they're awesome or something of that nature and then kindly excuse yourself to go about your day.

|| Pictures ||

If I don't know you or just met you please don't ask to take a picture of my tattoo. It's kind of awkward to be honest...no wait...it is awkward. I'm glad you really liked my tattoo and want something similar but you can find something like it online just as quickly. Also while on that subject: do not send the artist a picture of a tattoo to copy-cat. It's fine to show them an idea of what you want or better yet a flash of the tattoo you want but leave it up to them to design something for you. Believe me it will be more meaningful that you have a unique piece rather than an almost exact replica of someone's unique piece. 

|| Work ||

That old question of, "how will you get a job with those tattoos?"is rather rude. Everyone has different career paths and though it's important to consider your tattoo placement it isn't up to you to determine if another person is going into a career where tattoos aren't allowed. So best thing to do is not ask.

  

Just be considerate and approach them like you would anyone else. People like hearing compliments on their tattoos and appreciate the feedback when it's done right. So remember these few rules and you'll be part of the Cool Non-Tattooed People Club in no time!

Creating Your Own Ads

I know everyone doesn't have Photoshop and sometimes the programs on those photo upload sites do not have everything you need. Because of that I created a how-to tutorial on creating your own ads for blogs or website using the paint program that on your computer. The ad being created now is going to be 200x100 pixels but you can adjust the numbers to fit the size you want.

Hope this helps you even more and please feel free to ask questions in the comments below.

*Edit*
I forgot I have a movie maker on this computer so instead of those pictures taking up space in the post I put together a little "movie" with them. Only one image was out of place but it's only a zoom in on the pixel size after reducing it down to 200 pixels wide but is still 137 pixels tall.  It shows up after we get the images height to 100 pixels so just ignore the random image pop up after that. I know it's not the best video but anything to help you all out.

Guest Post with Hannah Beth from Of The Great Perhaps

Buy less, make more.

I challenge myself to stay creative not by frequenting Michael's or Joann Fabrics (although with those 40% off coupons it's a struggle!), but by using the materials I already have in new ways. New craft supplies, clothing, shoes: they're all tempting, and always will be tempting. But what's better than feeling like you've created something completely unique from your own inspiration? I've found this pleasure by simplifying my wardrobe, my possessions, and using up the materials in my craft hoard instead of endlessly adding to them.

Get rid of all that old junk you don't need.

We've all seen pictures on Pinterest or Tumblr of "organized chaos," or cute little knick knacks neatly arranged on shelves. How adorable, right? Personally those kinds of accessories build up the most in my house and are the hardest to get rid of because they're just too cute! Once my shelves and bureaus lose their organization, the chaos becomes ugly and overwhelming. By getting rid of unecessary little things, I find myself paying more attention to the important stuff: books, jewelry, and craft supplies that I now pick up & use more often.

Turn the TV off!

Background noise is distracting! And who wants their ears filled with commercials anyway? Play some music, or enjoy the silence. It gives you time to think, relax, breathe. Constant noise is in no way a life necessity.

Stop trying to multitask.

It's easy to become overwhelmed when you feel like the only way to get things done is to attack everything at once. Alternatively, by listing and prioritizing tasks you can get one completely done. Now move on to the next thing with that sense of accomplishment!

Take a minute to pause & enjoy the activities that fill your day.

Look out the window. Close your eyes for 10, 30, 60 seconds. Photograph the beautiful meal you just made before it gets devoured. Laugh at bad weather. It's only life, after all, and the little things we fill our lives with on a daily basis shouldn't go by unappreciated. Simple may seem plain or boring, but for me it's a lovely way to live.

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Thanks so much Hannah Beth for these very helpful tips! I definitely need to start (or in some cases stop) doing a few of these things, especially multitasking, I do that way too much! Again a great post and all of you should follow her wonderful blog at http://ofthegreatperhaps.blogspot.com/ :)

 If anyone is interested in doing a guest post anytime this month feel free to email me (click on the contact tab) I'll be offering this and more next month for any sponsor!

Responsible Blogging

This blog isn't very old but I have had my share of blogs as a teenager (anyone remember Xanga?) so I've learned my way around on my own. With this being the beginning of the year I know a lot of people start  blogging for multiple reasons so here are some tips I've gathered over the years that I practice myself as a blogger.

Sourcing Images
I know a lot of people search images on Google, Pinterest, or Tumblr and simple copy the image on their computer and later upload it without the original source. Even if the image is floating around on the interest someone took or created the image you are using. They do deserve credit for the photo so link backs or a click through to the original blog or website is a must. For many it is the fact they don't know how to include a url link (i.e http://www.websitename.com) to text or images. Lucky for you most blogging sites include buttons ,such as "link" like Blogspot, that once the text is highlighted or by clicking on the image* you can click the link button that will open a window that allows you to paste the url and turns it automatically for you, but some websites require a html code. For those sites copy and paste the codes below depending on what you are coding and insert the url.

For Text:
<a href="http://www.websitename.com"></a>
For Image:
<a img src="http://urlforimage.com"><a href="http://www.urlforwebsite.com"></a>

*if you used the url to upload the image on blogspot click on image and then click on "link" to get rid of that url . Then click the image again then click "link" to put the url that will connect to the article or website where the image was originally used.

Sharing Original Ideas
Everyone loves a good DIY post but it is also great to source the inspirations or the original person that you got the instructions from. Sometimes your original idea may have already been done before but when you find a project from another blog that you are trying out and are going to share in a post you need to give credit for the original inspiration. For example I have always thought about making faux oxfords before using some white shoes and markers, but I never did the project.  Then a few months back I stumbled upon a blogger who thought of the same idea and posted the DIY. When I finally decided to do the project for the blog I sourced it to the person who inspired me to actually go out and do the project even though the idea had occurred to me before hand. It's just something nice to do for other bloggers and it can also help you when others link to your projects.

TMI
Blogs are a great place to meet other bloggers with common interest but when you start to let your guard down because you are friends with a few people who read your blog remember it is still the internet where anyone can see it. I'm not saying to not make friends but be aware of personal things you post that people can use to access your information. Some people look for those simple things that they can use to answer your security questions. Just remember if you have something set as an answer avoid the subject on the blog or change your security question to something completely different. Also think of the consequences of a post such as an angry post about your boss or a party where you got drunk. Posting about it on your blog is just as bad as a eye-half-closed-red-solo-cup-in-hand photo you've been tagged in on Facebook. Now don't be afraid to share your feelings or a great party you went to on your blog just be wary of the information you put out.

Friendly Networking
Everyone wants to get their blog noticed and networking is a great way to do it but there is a friendly way and an annoying way. Commenting on others post is a great start but there is a difference between spamming and truly leaving a nice comment. It's okay if you're a new visitor to let them know but don't comment on every post like that. Say something positive such as something related to the post you just read or if you've been catching up (since you are new) mention how you really enjoy their blog. Also it is okay to ask them if they could check out your blog in return but don't mention it in every comment on that persons page. That is when it becomes spam. It is important to respect all bloggers regardless if they have a few readers or over a thousand; we are all human. One thing I hate is when people piggy back on well known bloggers for "15 minutes of fame" for their blog to get noticed. I know some blog friendship just kind of fade out but there is a difference when you only talk to them for a very long time only to gain readers.

Common Courtesy
This one is rather simple but treat others as you would like to be treated. When leaving a comment think of how you would feel if someone responded that way, especially if someone asked your opinion. You can get your thoughts across without sounding mean if you have an opposing view. Also do not hide behind annon to say a mean comment just because they felt comfortable enough to post something does not give you the right for your mean or hateful words. Be nice to others and you'll have a positive blog where you can feel comfortable being yourself.

I hope these responsible blogging tips are helpful for you to start your own blog or maintain your current one!

Wax Be Gone!

 As you may remember I mentioned I did the owl candle project the hard way and this resulted in wax getting on the new place mat we got the week before. I thought it was ruined and it was doomed to have the wax on it. Of course being me I couldn't live with that idea so I googled how to remove it and it worked great. Here are the very simple steps to get wax out of fabric.

This is what it looked like forever blobbed.

*From what I read this works best for non-colored wax.*

What you'll need:

• Ironing board
• Iron (on warm setting)
• The messed up fabric
• Paper bag or Papers

1. Take the paper bag or some paper and place under the  waxed stained fabric. 
2. Set the iron on warm (not hot) and go over the waxed area.
3. The residue should appear on the paper. You may need to replace the paper depending on how much residue is on it.
4. Flip the fabric over and to the same to the other side.

This is the end result and you can hardly tell a bunch of wax was spilled on it!

-Amber

Quick Tip

This came in handy when I was rearranging furniture in my apartment. This only works on carpets but it does a great job. I moved the sofa where it was against the wall but the legs left indents in the carpet that could easily be seen. It was almost like a ghost sofa in the middle of the room. Anyway simply take an ice cube and lay it on the indent(s) and let it melt. Once it melts it should be raised up enough to be "fluffed" back to normal by a vacuum. Sometimes it takes two tries depending on the carpet and the item that was sitting on it. Give it a try and tell me how it turns out!

budget chip clips

I've been busy these past weeks with projects and now this week will be filled with exams, YIKES! Since I won't be blogging for a little while here is a quick tip that I thought I'd share with you all.

These binder clips are a great to use in place of chip clips. There are more in a pack for the same price (or less) you would to buy multiple clips. Also they come in many different colors and prints for a little bit more. They're not only for chips closing purposes but are good for closing the bag salad or other food items that don't have resealable top. It's what we use and it's help us save on food items that would easily spoil or become stale due to leaving it open.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning

(via Design*Sponge)

There are a lot of ways to be eco-friendly in your everyday life and it's easier than you think. All these items used are more than likely already in your kitchen but if not they're not expensive very affordable. 

1. Clean your counter tops with vinegar.
   Simple pour some white vinegar on a washcloth and clean the counter top. It even gets off the stuff left by the chemical multi-purpose cleaners and doesn't leave a strong smell. One thing is NOT to use it on marble, if you're not sure simple search the web to make sure that it doesn't harm your counter top. As far as I know it is only marble that you shouldn't use it on but its better safe than sorry.
2. Use vinegar to clean stainless steel.
   Save money on those expensive wipes and chemical stainless steel cleanings and use vinegar. Simply pour it on a wash cloth and wipe all the those annoying finger prints away.
3. Use steam to clean the microwave.
   In a large microwave safe bowl fill with water and lemon juice, microwave for a few minutes. Allow the steam to fill the microwave and then remove the bowl. Take a wash cloth and wipe the spills away with ease. Your microwave will be spotless and have a fresh scent.
4. Get rid of counter top scratches with mayonnaise.
   Apply mayo on the scratch and let sit for 6-10 minutes. Wipe up the excess mayo and rinse with water. Depending on the severity of the scratch and the material of the counter top the scratch should stay gone for a long time. 
5. Make your own deodorizer.
   Fill a spray bottle with tap water and drop a generous (about 15 drops) of essential oils of your choice to create your own scents for the home.
6. Use lemon to deodorize garbage disposals.
   If the garbage disposal is starting to smell funky simple drop in lemon wedges or the skins and turn it on. This will leave the disposal with a fresh lemon sent and get rid of the horrid smell.
7. Clean the tub with baking soda and vinegar.
   In a spray bottle spritz the bathtub with vinegar, then pour some baking soda in the tub. After that spray the tub again with more vinegar. Leave for 20 minutes then scrub and rinse off with water. To prevent mold spray again with the vinegar and let dry before taking a shower.
8. Unclog drains with baking soda and vinegar.
   Pour 3/4 cup of baking soda down the clogged drain, after pour 1/2 cup of vinegar. Quickly cover the drain with a plug or wash cloth due to the chemical reaction which acts like a volcano. Leave there for 15 minutes and then revel an unclog sink.
9. Use powder detergent to freshen carpet.
   It may not be completely eco-friendly but it is friendly on the wallet. Spread your powder detergent on the carpet and let sit for a few minutes. Vacuum like normal and have a great smelling carpet without spending any extra cash.
10. Use rubbing alcohol and vinegar to clean windows.
    In a spray bottle mix together one cup rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol, one cup water and one tablespoon white vinegar. Spray on windows, mirrors or hard surface ceramic tile (for a shiny finish).

I hope these tips help you realize that eco-friendly can be easy and affordable. There are so many reasons to get away from the harsh chemicals and back to simplicity when it comes to cleaning.  

Preparing for Thanksgiving

(image from Design*Sponge)

If you're the "lucky" person who is hosting the Thanksgiving dinner then cooking food isn't your only worry. You also have to think about cleaning the house and prepping for all the relatives. Here is a simple list (with some easy cleaning tips) to make today a little less stressful.

• Drop off area
  Designate an area for relatives to drop off their coats and purses either by placing a table in the entry way or just an area in the living room
  
•  Cleaning If you have carpet don't waste money buying a carpet cleaner. Try sprinkling a little laundry detergent on the carpet then vacuum it . This gives the carpet fresh scent without all the hassle.
  
  If there are young children put any valuables up higher or away so nothing gets broken and no one swallows anything.
  
  Don't forget to clean between the cushions of the sofa or chairs. For a quick fabric freshener combine one part baking soda, one part fabric softener, and two parts warm water in an empty spray bottle.  

• Prep the bathroom
  Don't leave someone searching for the toilet paper and place it where it can easily be found or seen.
  
  Also to keep things "fresh" keep a lighted scented candle or place a spray like frebreeze for them to use (DO NOT place both in the bathroom.)   

• Bring out extra sittingEven if Thanksgiving dinner is done family style you'll still need extra sitting when everyone comes together after eating. Ottomans are a great for extra sitting or even simple folding chairs.  

• Stock up on medicineNot to say you're a bad cook but eating so many different things at once may cause someones stomach to be upset. Be prepared by buying heartburn relief medicine,gas relief, and stomach pain relief.
  
  *Also buying headache medicine would be a good idea too.  

• Make arrangements If you will be serving alcohol at the dinner talk to other family members who aren't drinking to either carpool or volunteer to drive those that may have had a little too much home. If not then wash those extra sheets and prep the spare room.

 Feel free to print this out and use it as a check list for today. I hope this helps!

'Tis the Season

The winter holidays are just around the corner and it's time to start thinking of gift ideas. There is only one thing though, you have no idea what to get them! Never fear for I am here to help with six gift ideas for the six different type of people in your life. Oh did I mention most are around $20?

1. The Fashionista- You can never have enough purses so try pairing a simple colored purse and a matching piece of jewelry like these from Forever21.

2. The Crafter- Being a crafter myself I love looking to other sites for ideas, so why not give them a book full of ideas like this one from Mod Cloth.

3. The Baker- Baking is fun so why can't the tools be as well? Simply tie a ribbion around these beautiful pot holders from Antropologie and tuck these adorable measuring spoons from Plasticland inside. 

4. The Music Guru- Show them how much you care about their tunes by giving them an awesome poster of their favorite band like this one from Interpunk.com.

5. The Reader- Something classic for a classic person; fill their stocking with one of these amazing hardcovers of an old classic like this beautiful hardcover of Pride and Prejudice from Mod Cloth.

6. The Joker- For someone that always has something funny to say give them a shirt that shows it like this one from Threadless.com.