Milk and Cookeez

Happy Birthday to________

2012-01-19T14:51:00.000-05:00

It's 2012, a Year that I would rather not celebrate. Why you may ask?

This is the year that I turn 40! Or as some women call it 29, again.

I'm fine with stating the facts, but I just don't like the facts that go along with 40. I'll get into that in another post down the road, but for now-

Let's Celebrate ________'s Birthday!!

Happy Birthday _______! You Look Great!!!

As I'm sure you have guessed, the blank is there for a reason. It's because, right at this very moment, it is someones birthday, and now just 5 seconds later, it's someone else's birthday.

I want to help you celebrate those Birthdays with a New Soapopz and coordinating Bubbly Body Sorbet.

We have been making our Birthday Cupcakes, for a Long time, almost 3 years, but in 2011 we introduced Birthday Cake to our Sorbet, foaming body scrub and now for 2012 we are happy to include

Birthday Cake to our Soapopz Line.

Birthday Cake Soapopz are perfect for a boy or girl & their grown up counterparts!

We made it in a fun Neon Blue Color, reminiscent of that (Yucky tasting) blue gel icing color and a creamy white frosting with colored jojoba bead sprinkles for that fun birthday feel. Best Part, it's made with a naturally based soap, detergent free of course, and a super sweet,

vanilla birthday cake fragrance (Phthalate Free).

Our sorbet is coordinating with its "sprinkles" and white vanilla base, perfect for Tweens-Teens-and

Ladies alike.

Happy Birthday! Have a great Year!

me-I'll be counting the days until November.....

What do Amy Atlas, Party Box Design, and Milk and Cookeez have in common?

2011-10-31T14:19:00.000-04:00

Halloween of course!

(Photo Courtesy of Party Box Design FREE Printables)

Party Box Design recently hosted their annual Halloween party and Milk and Cookeez was invited along, in soap form of course. We would have been there in person, but we have been having problems getting the broom up and running. So, the Ohio (Good)Witch stayed in Ohio, while the fun ensued in South Carolina! You have to read the Blog about it here! So much fun, deliciousness and cuteness in one party-drat that broom!

Amy Atlas fits into this as she picked up on PBD's Party and included it in her prelude to Halloween features. So, Milk and Cookeez made it to Amy Atlas (link and all, YIPEE!)

Happy Halloween!

Now were did I put those pointy shoes???

Milk and Cookeez Launches New Website, Sweet Bathtime

2011-10-29T10:14:00.000-04:00

Milk and Cookeez is proud to announce the launch of a Sweet Bathtime a new Retail Website, devoted to quality Bath and Body products, combined with superb Customer Service.
Have you wanted to try different Bath and Body products, but found yourself website hopping? Did you consider purchasing from a website, only to find that the Customer Service was lacking in the "Customer" area?
Sweet Bathtime is about to take all of your worries away, much like a relaxing bath. We have, and continue to find the best in both handcrafted and manufactured bath, body, and accessory products and bring them to you in one convenient place.
What can you find on Sweet Bathtime? Well to start, you can find Milk and Cookeez, of course, but you will also be able to find our most popular products and many new products that are not available anywhere else. (As a side note-retail sales at http://www.milkandcookeez.com/ will only be available at http://www.sweetbathtime.com/, starting February 2012.)
What else can you find on Sweet Bathtime, all kinds of wonderful Bath and Body from well established, Handcrafted Vendors, currently you can find Soapylove, but there will be many more in the coming months. I do recommend checking in often as new products will start arriving soon!
Sweet Bathtime's Customer Service will be top notch, you can contact us by phone, and email contact will be answered shortly after it is received. Best of all, Next Day Shipping! No waiting for 3-5 days for your order to ship out. Sweet Bathtime is out to change the way you shop for your favorite Bath and Body accesories.
Please stop by, also feel free to check out our Facebook Page.

SALE SALE SALE-Milk and Cookeez Style

2011-10-09T19:15:00.000-04:00

It's our Pre-Birthday Sale!

Why a Pre Birthday Sale, because, who really wants to work on their Birthday?

Visit, the website for savings up to 25% off Holiday and our Regular Line Up of Products.
You won't want to miss out, this is our only Pre Holiday Sale.

Remember, we only charge $6.95 shipping on all orders shipped to the same address!
(Wholesale does not apply.)

So get your holiday lists ready, Milk and Cookeez has been filling stockings for years :)
Sale Going on now thru Oct 14th.

Milk and Cookeez, Autumnal Giveaway Ends Tomorrow!!!

2011-10-07T08:23:00.000-04:00

Don't Forget, tomorrow is your last day to Enter our Fall Giveaway!!
See Here:
http://www.milkandcookeezblog.com/2011/09/giveaway-its-cool-weather-themed-milk.html

Then it's our Pre-Birthday Sale-because who really wants to work on their Birthday??

Have a sweet one!

CLOSEDGIVEAWAY It's a Cool Weather themed Milk and Cookeez Giveaway!

2011-09-30T22:47:00.001-04:00

Yes, it's cool outside (not cold yet) and that old familiar feeling of warm fuzzy socks, long hot (but not too hot) baths, and down blankets are in the foreseeable future. So there is no better way to celebrate Fall than with a Giveaway!

What can you win, hmmmm...

Let's say-Pumpkin, Caramel Apple, Egg Nog, and Frosty Peppermint

Now you might be thinking"GREAT", but what is the product?

Well, that's the fun part.

Please visit http://www.milkandcookeez.com/ and find out what products are available in the above mentioned scents and you are entered!

It's pretty easy. Would you like another entry? Well that's easy too,

visit FaceBook, post on your wall, and link to Milk and Cookeez, You get 1 more entry!

(Side note-if you don't FB, but Twitter, you can do that too, or you can Blog.)

(Please link in your 2nd comment.)

You will get a total of 2 entries, easy peasy-Now go tell your friends!
One Winner will be chosen on October 8th 2011.

You will receive the 3 of the fragrances mentioned, but the products are a surprise!

If you don't win, we'll be having a Pre-Birthday Party SALE on Oct 9th-14th (it's our Holiday Sale, the only one before the Holidays!)

RULES: Must answer the question in the comment section, 2nd Entry is optional. If the winner does not respond to emails in 3 days (Oct. 11th), a new winner will be chosen.

Winner Picked by Random.org, one winner chosen. Value TBD on Oct 8th, but it will at least be worth $30. Open to residents of the USA and Canada Only.

Congratulations To AMY, who tweeted our Giveaway!

Happy Fall Y'all!

2011-08-30T18:16:00.000-04:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year! It's beginning to look a lot like Autumn.

I love Fall/Autumn. I love being cool in the shade and warm in the sun, I love my chrysanthemums popping, I love my grapes getting all dark, bursting with juices. (This year I am attempting to make homemade concord jam-wish me luck-Blog Update to follow.) However, my heart truly belongs to Pumpkin!

I love ANYTHING pumpkin, pumpkin pie {of course}, pumpkin cookies, pumpkin eggnog, pumpkin soup, pumpkin custard, baked pumpkin, but my favorite pumpkin is my pumpkin soaps. They have sprinklings of ground vanilla beans and paprika power which give them the look of frozen pumpkin on a stick-Love them!
The best part, this year I have added a Pumpkin Bubbly Body Sorbet to the mix and if the soap wasn't good enough, the foaming sugar scrub knocks it outta the park!
You'll be able to find my pumpkin Soapopz all over the USA this Fall and Canada, we're shipping as fast as possible! I highly suggest you try them out, if you like pumpkin that is.

You won't be disappointed.
(Unless you are like Mr. Cookee who loathes pumpkin, this is not his favorite time of the year.)

Milk and Cookeez is Hiring a Sales Representative, Do you have what it takes?

2011-08-25T21:22:00.001-04:00

Milk and Cookeez is growing and we are Hiring a Sales Representative.
What we would like:
1. A sweet smile!
2. Experience with Sales, this is a HUGE Plus.
3. We would like you to live by M&C, although we know this is not always possible, so the right Cookee can be virtual.

What you can expect from us:
1. Commission Based Sales
2. An established Sales Base, although we would love new sales :)
3. Quality handcrafted products, that you will be proud to sell.
4. You will be park of our Cookee Crew, and that is a great place to be.

Why should you apply?

You should apply right now because you want to be a part of a fast growing company that will make you feel like you are part of a team.

If you or someone you know would be a perfect fit, please have them contact me @
TammyB@milkandcookeez.com

Thank you :)

Forever and a Day and LOTS of News, including MGM, Milk and Cookeez, and homelife

2011-07-25T15:23:00.000-04:00

You, like my close friends are getting the same apology.
"I'm sorry I haven't talked in awhile, I've been sooo busy,"and just like them, I'm sure you want to know why I've been so busy, so get your tall glass of something cool, because it's HOT, and we'll chat.....

Ok ready?

To start with, Milk and Cookeez has boomed this year, sales are crazy good and we are now stocking over 37 retailers with our sweet bath and body treats. I use the term we, because, M&C is now a 4 person Cookee Crew. (I'm just flabbergasted by this BTW!)
In addition to having our great retail customers, we recently just finished 7 orders from MGM Properties, including Bellagio, Aria, Luxor, Beau Rivage, The Mirage, MGM Grand, and Monte Carlo. I am amazed that we have grown to such a large amount in such a small amount of time, as 3 years is still pretty young.
That pretty much sums up business, other than we will be getting a dedicated "Cookee Line", land-line this week and I'm so excited-I'll have a true business phone (not just a cell) and it really makes me smile.

Personally, things are also doing well. Mr. Cookee and I have been updating our house, mostly paint and small projects, but those "little" things take such a burden off. For instance, we finally, after 2 years, were able to patch up the babygate holes in the walls and make our entryways normal again. We also updated paint in 3 rooms, with a powder room redo coming up next month. (I can not WAIT! I loathe the 1980's miniflower wallpaper in there, uck!) My kids are getting older and now share interests other than Thomas the Tank Engine and Barbie, although I still love some good Barbie play :)

Thank you all for hanging in there while I "disappeared". If you have time and want to get updated with the short and sweet version, visit our FB Page, I try to visit there daily, try being the operative word.
Have yourself a sweet day!

Do you plan on being a Beach Bum this Summer?

2011-04-19T16:21:00.001-04:00

Beach Bum is now a Milk and Cookeez Summer Staple. This fragrance is the epitome of Summertime, a Vintage Suntan lotion-anyone over the age of 30 has to remember that it wasn't always about Sunscreen, but Suntan.

Beach Bum gives you that warm Summer feeling, without leaving your house. Maybe you will be lucky enough to spend time at the beach this Spring or possibly even own a Beach House (ahhhh!).

Bring Your Beach Bum Soapopz with you-it makes a great guest soap or housewarming gift.

Do you need to scrub some of the beach away? Try using our Beach Bum Bubbly Body Sorbet-it's a spa for your shower-REALLY.

Maybe your lips had a little too much sun? Try our Banana Beach Blast Lip Scrub, this 98% Natural Lip Scrub is loaded with organic cane sugar, shea butter, mango butter, coconut oil, & other good for you items. You will slough off the sun drenched skin all while getting some serious moisturizing.

Be a Beach Bum this Summer!

Yep, that's me A Doer of the Week with Martha Stewart and the Dreamers into Doers

2011-04-04T22:10:00.000-04:00

What an amazing week! I was chosen as a Doer of the Week with the Martha Stewart Dreamers into Doers Group. I am in the category of 52 (or so) amazing women and it is truly an honor and privilege.

To say that I am excited for this honor is a serious understatement. I have wanted "to be" Martha Stewart for MANY Years. I have admired this woman for all that she has stood for, she is the first and true Domestic Goddess. To know that my name and hers can be used in the same sentence, is enough to keep me going for another 38 years.

My love for all things Martha started in 1995, the year that I would start planning my wedding. It was in this year that I bought Martha's Wedding Organizer/Planning Book. I wanted to have my wedding be as perfect as every page in this book, and to me it was. From there on it was Martha in print, all over our apartment. We were not well off, by any means. Bill was a Graduate Student working towards his PHD and I was a Full Time Nanny, finishing up my Psychology Degree. The internet was mainly for strange chat rooms and emailing family and friends-that was all. There was no Google, no MarthaStewart.com, no real surfing the web on our dial up AOL connection. I was left to the library and magazine stands to build my small collection of recipes and "Good Things" from Martha.

Fast Forward to 2008 I start my own business, in 2009 I make a real go of it with my, barely, Part Time business, raise 3 young children, join Dreamers into Doers, and in 2011 get chosen to be the Doer of the Week.

2011 has turned out to be an amazing year thus far, imagining it getting better would truly be gluttony.

I am humbled, and honored to be chosen by Martha Stewart's Company to be a Doer of the Week for the last week of March and the beginning of April. Thank you :)

Growing Pains in Business are the same as real life

2011-04-02T12:36:00.000-04:00

Growing Pains, everybody gets them. So pains are slight and barely noticeable, but others stick with you for a bit-nagging and irritating you until you get past them.
The same can be said for growing a small business an article in Inc. states "...growing pains in a small business equate to lack of time and resources."
These types of pains can hurt your small business from making the next step in growth.
some businesses decide to keep their growth to a minimum, never really experiencing these issues.
However, if you are a business that has decided to attempt to reach the next level, there are a few items that you should keep in mind.

1. Do you have the capital to expand your business? Can you take out a small business loan, possibly borrow from your home money account, ask friends or family to lend/give you money. Have you saved enough from past sales to cover your new growth?
-Personally, I kept all of my profit and reinvested it into my company, before I took any money for myself. It did make for days of questioning and wondering what am I really doing here, but it turned out to be the best option for me. An old quote that rang true ti me was "Nothing ventured, nothing gained".
2. If you want to take your business to the next level, how will you plan it?
Do you have the resources, capital, time, employees, knowledge? Each of these points needs to be answered before you decide to make the leap. Without these, and possibly a few others that I have neglected to mention, you will not be set up for true growth. Imagine building a bridge and forgetting to add a part to it's structure, it is doomed to fail-maybe not for some time, but inevitably it will collapse.
A good article to help you with the details, is from ehow.com, How to Handle Small Business Growing Pains.
3. Once you decide to go to the next level, whether it be by selling in a mass retail market, wholesale, or numerous craft fairs/vendor events. You have obviously already answered question #2 and are now here. Do you like the answers that you have received from #2, are you making a healthy profit, has your your knowledge of your product and your industry met the wants/needs of your customers, do you still have a life after your "work" is done?
Hopefully, your answers are a resounding yes to each of these questions and you are motivated to continue onward, feverishly dominating your market!

Best of luck to your growing business, may your pains be slight and barely noticeable.
You have chosen to live out the American or Insert Country Here ____________ Dream and hopefully you will meet the expectations that you have established for yourself.

Build A Sign, Built Milk and Cookeez some adorable signs

2011-03-30T10:00:00.000-04:00

I was recently contacted by Build A Sign to gather my interest in having a Milk and Cookeez Sign made.
Being a business woman, with the need to have a professional look, while also keeping the whimsical look that Milk and Cookeez is based on, it was a no brainer. I must have a Build A Sign, sign!
Build A Sign's website is super easy to navigate, it is literally upload and go, or design right on their site.
I decided to design a custom banner and street sign.
I was completely enamored by the metal street signs that they offer. I designed my sign to direct customers to my booth or tent at craft fairs and trade shows. The sign itself is all metal, and very stable. Do you want to know my favorite part, Build A Sign also sells real brackets and posts so you can place your sign wherever you would like! So, fun!

The other product that I chose from Build a Sign is this 8 by 4 foot banner, it's huge! Not to mention perfect for getting lots of attention. I adore this banner, not only is it perfect for outside use, as it is vinyl, it includes all of the grommets that you need, and you can use one of Build A Sign's preloaded templates, for instance Happy Birthday, Welcome Home, Sale, etc. Again, I chose to design my own, adding my new logo.

This is a heavyweight banner, that could likely handle most kinds of outside weather.

I am hoping to give it a "field test" this Summer at the local Farmer's Market.

Build A Sign has fantastic customer service, a free proof service,quick turn-around time,super fast delivery, and perfect quality products. In addition to banners and metal street signs, they also make Magnetic Signs, Accessories, Art Prints, Bumper Stickers, Car Wraps (which I will definitely get, when I get my Cookeez Mobile), Flags, Jumbo Cards, License Plates, Neon Signs, Parking Signs, Plywood Signs, Political Signs, Real Estate Signs, Retail Displays, Safety Signs, Sandwich Boards, Street Signs, Vinyl Decals,Vinyl Lettering, Wall Decals, and Window Clings. Basically, if you need signage-Build A Sign has got you covered! I highly recommend Build a Sign for all of your sign needs, you will not be disappointed.

I would like to thank Build A Sign for contacting me to review their products.

I received the compensation of a banner and sign for review of Build A Sign's products.

However, the opinions are my own and were influenced by the quality and service of Build A Sign.

Thank you to my Cookeez for being excellent holders.

One Giant Step for The Head Cookee, one Even larger loss for the world of Cupcakes

2011-02-14T09:52:00.000-05:00

The day has come, yesterday in fact, that I, a cupcake loving, bakery connoisseur, and candy extraordinaire has given up SWEETS!!!!
Please cover your children's ears, for the wales of pain can be heard throughout the land. Hershey's stock dropped 50 points on the Dow, bakeries in a 20 mile radius are now overflowing with bags of sugar-as their production has come to a halt, and candy stores from Ohio to California have already seen sales drop 36%!

I apologize to each of the "Sugar Factories" that I will now be diverting away from.

Can you think of a better day to announce a huge breakup than on Valentine's Day, the irony is almost satirical.
Dearest Sugar,
I truly love you, but I have outgrown your yo-yo ways, your sweet taste is like a romance gone bad. I love to hate you, and it is unhealthy to use you in this way any longer. We must part, I have grown older, matured in my ways. You were always there tempting, but never really giving me what I needed. I shall look at our 30 plus years relationship with fondness, and I would like to stay friends, yes I know how that sounds, but when I see you at the Mexican restaurant, or in the local cupcake store know that I will smile, take in your intoxicating scent, and walk slowly away as I look back and wonder what might have been, if only your weren't so heavy on my hips...

I'm going to need all your help if I will stay this tortuous path, please...
No more cupcake pictures online
No more talk of candy stores and sweet shops
No more Epicurus pancakes, oozing in sugared up strawberries and whipped cream
No more 7 layer cakes, with layers upon layers of ganache
No more Mexican Fried Ice Cream, smothered in sweet honey
No more warm cherry pie ala-mode
No more, marshmallow dripping, Rice Krispy Treats
No more Whirly Pop lollipops
No more Swedish Fish
(This is a joke! Please post tons of pictures online-I must survive somehow.)

Let's talk Liver and Onions instead!

It's February, time to get your Love on, with a Milk and Cookeez Valentine's Discount

2011-02-01T18:28:00.000-05:00

We love (hehe) February, WHY you ask?
Because it's cold, dreary, and perfect for snuggling with your love.
Need another reason, Valentine's Day is right around the corner.

For those of you with children, this is much more about Valentine's and Lollipops, Pink and Hearts.

All of which are a few of my favorite things.

I'm a traditionalist, no store bought Star Wars cards, no Cars Cards, just handmade goodies, with stickers and doilies, and Hershey's Kisses!

This year, we are printing Valentine's for my oldest, Courtesy of Chelsea Ann My youngest will be using the mini doilies I bought and foil red heart stickers, and my Middle Child will want the Star Wars Valentine's. (And I will give in because 2 out of 3 ain't bad!)

In another Love Filled thought, I have discounted the Milk and Cookeez Cherry Cordial Soapopz and they will ship until February 9th. These will make a perfect Teacher Gift! Each Cherry Cordial Soapopz is made with warm Chocolate and sweet cherry fragrance, it's really Yummy and only available through Valentine's Day. If you are looking for a Combo Gift, Combine our Cherry Cordial Soapopz with our Bubbly Body Sorbet! Just imagine, Chocolate covered Cherries on Valentine's Day, without any calories to worry about!

Words of the Day in The Land of Milk and Cookeez

2011-01-31T19:42:00.000-05:00

What are the "Words of the Day" today?

{Because you were really wondering!}

Number One: FaceBook. Today I decided to make my FanPage on Facebook a business page-a nice clean page and easier to access, but hard because I know I'm going to leave 1 or 500 of my cookeez behind on the old page, ahhh Facebook, you are like a weebling toddler, growing and changing everyday...

Number Two: Lemons, Now this is a thing between Mr. Cookee and I. Are you ready for the story :)

We have colds here, and as much as I don't like to complain, they have been pounding us-just me and Mr. Cookee, for 3 days. So yesterday I decided to stock up on Chicken Noodle Soup, Orange Juice, and Lemons. The Lemons are for our water that we are drinking like crazy to stay hydrated and try to flush this cold out (It's working BTW). Last night I give Mr. Cookee a 1/8th wedge of Lemon for his water-the same kind you get in restaurants. Now the fun part, Mr. Cookee is awake ALL NIGHT, tired, but can't sleep. What does he say to me at 10am, when he heads to work late, "It had to be the lemon, it's the only thing I had different last night." DUH-WHAT-HUH??? "A lemon wedge kept you up all night long, that's insane", I say. Needless to say, around 5pm today, being the Dr, that he is, he finds medical evidence that supports his claim (mind you he highlighted the "insomnia" but failed to highlight the "excessive use"). Gotta Love the Medical Field!!!

(this is what Mr. Cookee Sent in his email today, you may want to click to see the highlighted "insomnia")

Number Three: Snow/Ice Yes, I live in Ohio, and Yes we have Winter, but do we have to hear about the

"DUM DUM DUM" Storm of the Century???? Yes Mr. Fox, Mr. NBC, Mr. ABC, And Ms. CBS (CBS has to be a MS., she just has to be.) It's going to snow, I'm going to shovel, start a nice warm fire, and drink the milk, that I bought 2 gallons of yesterday-unbeknownst to me that snow was coming, and DEAL WITH IT. This "DUM DUM DUM" Storm, will come and go and we'll dig out, just like we always do in Ohio. It's WINTER~!!

Winner of the Sprinkles Cupcakes Giveaway (Take 2) with Milk and Cookeez is....

2011-01-25T22:21:00.001-05:00

The winner of 6 Sprinkles Cupcakes is....
B
Who said Oo... Lemon sounds yummy.

Popbar now has miniPops, you heard it here on Milk and Cookeez!

2011-01-15T18:20:00.001-05:00

Popbar a Popsicle business that I covet, yet have never actually been to, has a NEW Addition to their, ever expanding, menu, miniPops! These Yummy Morsels of deliciousness can be ordered for your next Party or Event! Can you imagine having these cool yummies available for you and your guests-I only wish I lived closer to NYC. Contact Popbar for more information on ordering yours today.

You may be wondering why these amazing looking (and I'm SURE tasting) miniPops are so delish-it's because, according to Popbar, "Our secret is simplicity itself. Freshness and high quality ingredients are the main contributors to the unique taste and quality of popbar. Unlike mass produced ice cream that can sit in a warehouse or grocery store for months, our popbars are made fresh daily in our PopLab,

for everyone to see."

You can even watch their Popologists (What a great title to have!) make Popbars and miniPops in batches of 24 at a time,
24 at a time means great quality control, you gotta LOVE that!
Have fun looking at all of Popbar's Yummy Pops here or visit their website, by clicking HERE.
Better Yet-if you are in the NYC area, head on over to 5 Carmine St. (@ 6th Ave.), New York, NY 10014
Tel. 212 255 4874 and try them for yourself. I have a very good feeling, you won't be sorry!

Photos and Information used, with permission from Popbar.

This is a mention, without a product review or compensation.

CLOSED (Winner Below)Sprinkles Cupcakes Giveaway with Milk and Cookeez

2011-01-04T14:35:00.003-05:00

Hold onto your Sweet Tooth! We are giving away 6 Sprinkles Cupcakes to the Winner of this Giveaway!

I was fortunate enough to try my first Sprinkles cupcake this past December, at their Chicago Store, and I have one word for you, LOVE!

I have secretly lusted over Sprinkles for 2 years, and it was so exciting for me to be able to visit one of their many stores. It was so adorable, while also being very streamlined, and ridiculously organized. The employees are Happy, and so extremely friendly.

So we are Spreading the Love, just in time for Valentine's Day with 6 Sprinkles Cupcakes of your Choice.

You can keep them all for you, or by all means, send me one :)

These are the most delicious cupcakes I have ever eaten, by far! I have LOVED other cupcakes, but

Sprinkles are the FULL PACKAGE, the frosting is delicious and the cake is the best cupcake cake I have ever eaten, bar none! It is very easy to see why they have grown exponentially since their inception in 2004 with their first Cupcake Bakery in Beverly Hills. The Owner Candace Nelson, has the distinction of being the Foremother of the Cupcake Bakery Craze, talk about being inspirational!

Enter to win your Cupcakes below, the only downside, you must pick up your cupcakes at any of Sprinkles 10 Locations.

The Winner will be given an exclusive code to use at the store.

Best of luck, I'm sooo very jealous!

All Photos used with Exclusive Permission from Sprinkles Cupcakes.

If you are unfortunate enough to live too far away from a Sprinkles Cupcake Store, make sure you tune into Cupcake Wars, Starring Candace Nelson on the Food Network, or you can get your Sprinkles on by sporting their "sweet" apparel.

~~TO WIN:~~ Now Closed

Visit Sprinkles.com and then leave a comment with the flavor of cupcake or cupcakes you would choose.

mscutiepie354 said... The orange flavor is amazing!

Congratulations mscutiepie354-Enjoy your 6 FREE Cupcakes from Sprinkles Cupcakes (I'm overly jealous, feel free to send one to Ohio :)

A Winner will be chosen on January 25th, by Random.org.

Please include your contact info in your comment.

The Code for the 6 Cupcakes will be sent to you via email at the end of the Giveaway.

You can only receive the cupcakes in a Sprinkles Store.

This giveaway prize has been donated to us by Sprinkles cupcakes.

My opinions are mine, and are not endorsed by Sprinkles Cupcakes.

Winter Break, and Shoppe Closing

2010-12-18T10:33:00.000-05:00

We will be taking a "rest" on the Milk and Cookeez site, we are now closed until January 10th.

However, this does not mean we will be resting, be on the lookout for a few new offerings in the New Year, including New Styles of products, and Valentine's Day Gifts, sure to satisfy any sweet toothed tubaholic.

Merry Christmas
and a
Happy & Healthy New Year

A SWEET Bloggy Giveaway Coming Soon, with Milk and Cookeez

2010-12-16T16:01:00.000-05:00

Since you are reading this you must love sweet stuff, and I'm not talking the soap kind!
I'm talking real edible sweets, the kind you love soooo much that they just make you smile.

Hint: it's a Cupcake Giveaway! Stay Tuned...

CopyCat CopyCat-I'm not OK with that!

2010-12-15T16:50:00.003-05:00

If you own a business whether online or brick and mortar you have surely dealt with the Copycat Issue. I was first alerted to this heinous situation a few months after I met my friend Amy. Amy had a Copycat (I think even 2.) My only advice, never dealing with this before, was that it was a compliment, she had such great ideas-and people were inspired. So inspired, that they copied her items, wording, and "Look".

Definitions:
INSPIRATION: a product of your creative thinking and work
COPYING: Copying is the duplication of information or an artifact based only on an instance of that information or artifact, and not using the process that originally generated it

I bet you never used an inspirationer, but you have probably used a copier before. See the difference?

Where is the line, it's really that hard to see?

Unfortunately, Copycatting is not just a Bath and Body issue, it is a problem will all businesses, included are Party Planning, Candy Buffets, Paper Designers, Website Designers, Cupcakes, Candy, and Baby Blankets, to just about everything on ETSY. I live by the mantra that there is room & customers for all, but grasping onto someone else's coat strings is wrong! There is no rhyme or reason, other than greed. While some people are naive, others are just malicious and out for a quick buck, made from the person who has spent time, energy, money, and tons of research time into their craft.

I will leave you to your opinion, and do hope you will share yours here, but first I would also like to point out-purchasing from someone to use their "style" is wrong, asking someone to give you information, that you took the time to find on your own, is also wrong, and assuming that a business will not confront you is downright stupid.
Passion comes from your heart, entrepreneurs put their hearts into their craft.
Inspiration makes passion bloom, while copying will only break spirits and darken hope.

Be an inspirationer not a copier!

Meet the Milk and Cookeez Sponsors, The Twinery

2010-12-02T19:10:00.000-05:00

I have to say, when Nicole of The Twinery wanted to advertise on the bloggy, I was so excited! I have been ~~stalking~~, ahem... watching her twine for a few months. Twine from The Twinery is the BEST twine that I have seen and used. Yes! I LOVE TWINE!!

How about sit back, get on your cozy socks and check out what Nicole has to say about twine and her life.

When did you start your business? All the planning started a long time ago...but we started selling our products online in July 2010

Has your product line changed through time? Well, since The Twinery is still in it's baby stages...not a whole lot of changes have occurred in our product line yet. But we'll be adding new twine colors, sizes and even better wholesale options for our stockists very soon! We have a lot of fun and new exciting products on the horizon as well!

What are you currently working on? The Twinery is putting together a design team! We are so excited about this opportunity to get our baker's twine into the hands of several super talented crafters and bakers! Each month our design team will be sharing fun and unique ways that anyone can use baker's twine to embellish anything! Our first design team posts will be starting in December of this year...just in time for you to dress up your Christmas crafts, gift wrapping and baked goods! We will be posting our design team's ideas and posts on our blog each month.

Do you sell in Brick and Mortar shops? We do! We have several wholesale buyers in countries all over the world who stock our baker's twine! Our baker's twine is sold in bakeries, bakery supply shops, scrapbooking shops, craft stores, paper boutiques and more! It's been such a humbling and fun experience to see our twine on the shelves of so many amazing shops & boutiques. While The Twinery itself is only an online store, our buyers have been a great way to get our twine into brick & mortar shops for our customers.

Do you work from home, while also having children/house to manage? I do work from home...and I have little ones! That's been the biggest challenge so far...filling orders, emailing customers/clients, answering the phones, shipping packages, creating the product listings, photographing the products, the website management and all the other things that go along with any business...all while taking care of my two small children, being a wife and also being the master chef, baker, maid, laundry-doer, parent classroom volunteer, etc. in our house - it's been a crazy ride so far! But one that I wouldn't trade for anything! I'm so wonderfully blessed with a supportive family and amazing business partners who all help to keep my head on straight!

What do you whistle to while you work (AKA-Favorite working music/song)? Whistle, hum, sing...and if necessary, I even dance (it helps keep the day going with pizazz)! I don't know what I'd do without Pandora (pandora.com)! Since my business is run online, naturally I'm always at my computer...I love listening to Pandora all day long!

What is your favorite color? Red is my favorite color right now...if you need proof, come visit me! My home has red accents everywhere! I love all shades of red...I'm rather crushing on a burnt reddish orange right now (maybe that's just the Fall season though)! I'm also a recovering Pink addict as well.

{I know what you mean about the pink-although I am still fully (happily) addicted!}

What trend on the web has you swooning? Well, for one (and probably the most obvious one for me)...I LOVE the fact that using baker's twine to bundles up goodies, embellish paper crafts and even in home decor has bitten almost everyone! I've had a love for baker's twine since I was a young girl...seeing it embellishing the bakery boxes of my grandmother's favorite little Italian bakery...this twisted string has had my heart all aflutter for a long time! So many blogs and websites feature their projects and crafts with twine embellishments and it's so amazingly fun to see the creativity out there! I hope it's more than a trend...baker's twine seems like a timeless product no matter what the project at hand may be!

What kind of pajamas do you wear? I'm a sweats and t-shirt kinda girl. I know...that's nothing exciting, right?? I'd love to tell you it's all silky and satiny matching pajama sets...but to be honest...I get excited when, at the end of a busy day, I can curl up in bed with my comfy baggy sweatpants and soft cottony tees on!

If you could have 1 item that you make/sell, go Mass Market, what would it be and why? Well, funny you should ask! Our baker's twine has gathered the attention of a few mass market buyers...so we'll see how the future pans out! I feel like it's coming though...I feel it! {Amazing News!!! I need more of a reason to ~~stalk~~ keep tabs on your twine.}

Finally, If I gave you $20,000 what would you do with it? (Anything at all-it doesn’t have to be business related) I'd put it towards a down payment on a bigger house! The twine has taken over the one I have now...we kinda treat it like another family member!

{Sounds nice, it's soft, durable, and doesn't make a mess, on its cute little spool-Maybe I can adopt!?}

Want to Find out more about The Twinery and Nicole, check out these Social Sites:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheTwinery
Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheTwinery
Blog: http://www.thetwinery.blogspot.com/
Flickr Group: http://www.flickr.com/groups/1449357@N23/

Cyber Monday thru Wednesday Specials!

2010-11-29T19:01:00.000-05:00

Milk and Cookeez is jumping on the Cyber Wagon and hosting a few specials of our own.

Get your Package straighned hands on these great soap deals!
FRESH & Ready to ship!
100% Natural Pumpkin Soapopz (In Stock Only) $6.50!
Traditional Gingerbread Men Soaps (In Stock Only) $5.75!

The First 8 Orders of $45.00 will receive Free Shipping and get a FREE Snowflake Soap
{Which is perfect for those last minute Hostess Gifts!}
The Snowflake Soap is a clear soap with light blue glitter throughout, fragrance Christmas Cookie.

Hurry, these specials end on Wednesday Night!

Party Box Design, Thanksgiving Feast Inspiration

2010-11-23T12:42:00.000-05:00

Party Box Design hosted a beautiful, as well as thrifty Halloween Party. I wanted to show it to you earlier, as it was absolutely beautiful, but ran out of time. I decided to show you some snippets of it, just in case you need some last minute, Thanksgiving Day Inspiration. All of the elements that Jessica used can be easily turned from a spooky, fun Halloween party to a warm and Fall, Family oriented Thanksgiving.
{If you would like to see all of the amazing photos from Jessica's Party, Click Here.}
If you live in a temperate area, how about moving your Thanksgiving Feast Outside, isn't that how the pilgrims and Native Americans did it? What better back drop for a natural feast than nature itself.

Set up a Dessert Buffet, or a drink station. Jessica found a great old hutch and redid it to match her theme, but this would be a great place to house your pumpkin pies, pumpkin roll, apple pie, and all of your yummy treats.

Speaking of Drinks and Yummies-check out these great straw tags Jessica made. Imagine some mulled apple cider and these great mason jars. Inexpensive, fun, and reusable, cant get better than that!

How about those apples? Do they not look amazing!!? They would make a beautiful and delicious touch to the dessert bar! {Just think-if you live in the North, the leaves are already off of the branches too-less work for you!}

What Fall celebration is not complete without a scarecrow.

Finally, if you need to get your Thanksgiving moving along quickly, like I do-check out

Party Box Design's E-Invites

Happy Thanksgiving!

Black and Blue Friday???

2010-11-21T20:03:00.000-05:00

Will you dare head out this coming Friday for the ultimate in Competitive Shopping? Is your Black Friday like an episode of Supermarket Sweep or do you prefer to stay away from anything retail on this high holiday or retail appreciation?
I know I will be there, hair in a ponytail with a layered jacket and baseball hat. I will also have a pair of flip top mittens, pertinent sale ads, sharpie, and most importantly A SMILE!!!
Black Friday is known as Black Friday because this is the day that retail stores see BLACK in sales (which is positive sales day) instead of RED (which is a negative sales day).
I have been Black Friday Shopping since 1994, in the Cleveland Area of Ohio. Last Year I was interviewed by the Cleveland Plain Dealer about my experience on shopping on the biggest retail sales day of the year. The article focused on tips for shopping, I would like to note a few trends that I have seen since starting my shopping "hunt" 16 years ago.
1. I have noticed that the Internet has made Black Friday into a Full Blown Sport, with sites that show leaked ads, stores that will give you hints as to what they will be featuring, and lots of chatter-much like this.
2. The Friday after Thanksgiving has turned into "The Week Before Black Friday Sales" Pre Thanksgiving Sales", and Thanksgiving Sales, on Thanksgiving.
3. Almost every store used to open at 7am for Black Friday, you made your choice as to what store you would hit first and shop and run. Now a certain store is opening at midnight! But while that is not bad enough, some stores actually have sales on Thanksgiving.
Note: Since this is my blog, I shall form my opinion-Thanksgiving is a HOLIDAY! It is an American Holiday! It is a Government Holiday, it is a Garbage Man Holiday, it is a school Holiday. Why would it not be a retail holiday? I am not naive enough to believe that everyone in America, celebrates Thanksgiving, but "Corporate America" should-it used to. Has the greed of "The American Way" gotten in the way of the American Tradition?
(I will leave this question for you to ponder or comment on.)
4. The last thing that I have noticed is the major increase in electronic sales on Black Friday, while it used to involve toys, it is now over run with video games, computers, ipads, ipods, cell phones, and the ever popular big screen tv. I'm a traditionalist, I shop for toys, but I do know that is just me, I've got Santa loving kids :)

What do you think of Black Friday, do you believe it has become a "shopping Monster" or just nothing that you want to be bothered with? Opinions wanted...

Happy Thanksgiving & a Shopping Bag filled Black Friday.

Meet the Milk and Cookeez Sponsors, Baskets with Bling

2010-11-13T21:37:00.001-05:00

Welcome Back to our installments of Meet the Milk and Cookeez Sponsors.
Today we have Barbara Day, Owner of Baskets with Bling. Baskets with Bling is an online Gift Basket Ordering Company. Barb makes baskets for any occasion, even jewelry baskets.
I recently had the pleasure of asking Barb some questions about her business. Sit back relax and enjoy learning about how you can give a custom gift that anyone will adore.

When did you start your business? January, 2008

Has your product line changed through time? I started with just gift baskets and added centerpieces, candy buffets, wedding favors and accessories and also opened an Etsy shop with vintage jewelry and purses.

What are you currently working on? Marketing for the holidays. ~Me too :)

Do you sell in Brick and Mortar shops? Not yet, but hopefully I will find a store to carry my gift baskets next year.

Do you work from home? I work from home part-time in the evenings and on the weekends. I'm also a full time legal secretary.

What do you whistle to while you work (AKA-Favorite working
music/song)? Usually, it's a bunch of songs from the 80s.

What is your favorite color? Red
What trend on the web has you swooning? Candy Buffets for weddings and parties.
What kind of pajamas do you wear? Fleece in the winter and shorts/tops in the summer

If you could have 1 item that you make/sell, go Mass Market, what would it be and why? Gosh, all of my items are pretty labor intensive, but I would like to design a line of greeting cards with bling. It would be fun to see those go mass market.

Finally, If I gave you $20,000 what would you do with it? Pay off my business credit cards and open a small gift shop.

Now that you know Barb, head on over to Baskets with Bling and get those Holiday orders in! As seen here, her work is beautiful and very professional, no detail has been overlooked. These would make great gifts for business clients, teachers, The UPS Carrier, or even Uncle Fred-who you haven't seen in years!

Thank you Baskets with Bling for being a Milk and Cookeez Sponsor.

Creativity, Good or Bad?

2010-11-05T09:17:00.000-04:00

Business is in full on Holiday Swing here at M&C. I have been preparing for the influx of orders, however I have an issue and I can use some help.
I am a creative person, I love thinking up new ideas and combining them with fragrances, it is the most fun thing that I do.
Now onto the problem, I want to create, I want to make, but I run out of time-daily. I have other things in life that take precedence, like my family and my house. I can't let creating take over my life. Thing is, I have always had a "focused" attitude. If I get something in my mind, I'm focused and can't get over it. I once (once) got on such a laundry kick, there wasn't a loose sock or unwashed dishcloth in the house. One time it was a dog, my Molly McButter. I literally drove my husband insane thinking of ways to get the dog.
So, the problem (if you can call it that from a business standpoint) is that I want to make and I want to create, but I have to have to equally focus on life and work. It's really hard for me, especially with the Holidays coming, I have sooo many ideas, but I just can't get it all done.

{FYI-I don't have OCD-maybe just CCD Creativity Cumpulsive Disorder}

What do you think, how do you handle your need to be creative?

Blog Advertising

2010-10-22T12:22:00.000-04:00

Are you interested in Advertising on Milk and Cookeez Blog?
Right Now we have one Space available for a 125x125 Ad (non blinking please).
If you are interested, please contact Tammy @ TammyB@milkandcookeez.com for all of the details.

Meet the Milk and Cookeez Sponsors, The TomKat Studio

2010-10-22T11:55:00.000-04:00

Today for Meet the Milk and Cookeez Sponsors we have Kim from The TomKat Studio. We met (in an online kind of way) a few Months back when she used Milk and Cookeez products in her Spa Party Design, we've been chatty ever since.

Fast Forward a few months and Kim is now a lovely Sponsor of the Milk and Cookeez blog. Thank you Kim! Did you want to find out more about The Tomkat Studio, Check out these Social Places (Blog, Facebook, & Twitter) & of Course The The TomKat Studio's Online Shop.

Although you can find a lot about The TomKat Studio all over the internet, I bet we know a few things that even Martha (Bowing Down) herself doesn't know, let's go..

When did you start your business? March 2009

Has your product line changed through time? Absolutely! With the demand for my products, I decided in late 2009 to go Printable! I couldn't keep up with printing/cutting/assembling all of the party orders, so now my customer can save money by doing that part themselves! Many people love to craft, but aren't good with design so that is where we come in!

What are you currently working on? A million things! First and foremost, a brilliant collaboration with Kate Landers Events! Photo shoot is next week. Then I will be focusing on getting my Holiday lines designed and up in the shop! We are also working on moving and launching a new website and blog! (M&C, I can't wait!)

Do you work from home, while also having children/house to manage? Sure do! It's wonderful! I can be there for my family when they need me, but also work comfortably at home on my own schedule.

What do you whistle to, while you work (AKA-Favorite working music/song)? I love Pandora on my iPhone. My playlist is based on Natasha Bedingfield and it's fabulous!

What is your favorite color? Pink! (M&C, Excellent Choice!)

What trend on the web has you swooning? Creative dessert tables, of course! (M&C, I should have assumed that.)

What kind of pajamas do you wear? I prefer comfy night shirts from Victoria's Secret and Old Navy, my fave says "Hello Gorgeous".

If you could have 1 item that you make/sell, go Mass Market, what would it be and why? My lollipop invitations! They are super popular and I am always being asked to make them!

Finally, If I gave you $20,000 what would you do with it? (Anything at all-it doesn’t have to be business related). Hmmmm....let's see. First I would finish decorating the bonus room in our house. It is going to be a theatre/office for my husband, and there is a couch, plasma tv on the wall, surround sound but not much else yet! (M&C, Not Letting Mr. Cookee see this.) Then I would book a family trip to Hawaii! We haven't been there yet, and I can't wait to go! If there was any leftover, I would buy new lenses for my camera! I am trying to learn more about photography so I can take better photos for my business and of my babies!

If you have a Party or Special Event Coming Up, I highly suggest you check out the TomKat Studio's Blog, you are sure to find inspiration. It is Pure Eye Candy!
Thank you so much for your time and Sponsorship, best of luck for a great end of 2010, I see 2011 as a huge year for The TomKat Studio.

Meet the Milk and Cookeez Sponsors, Passion for Parties

2010-10-21T17:37:00.000-04:00

It's time to Meet the Sponsors.

1st up we have Jennifer from Passion for Parties. Passion for Parties is a great source for finding lots and lots of resources, all about throwing parties, How great is that!

You can reach see all of the Passion for Parties information at Jennifer's Blog or on Facebook.

I asked Jennifer a few questions about her business, her life, and a couple of "intimate" questions you will surely want to know!

When did you start your business? 2007

What do you do for your business? My business is an affiliate-marketing business. Instead of creating and distributing my own product line, I partner with other reputable companies and promote their products for them. As the products are sold, I earn a commission on the purchases. I provide information and ideas to help my site visitors throw amazing parties, and then recommend products that I believe would help make their parties a success. (M&C, Gotta love giving recommendations, that would be so fun.) It works out quite well, and I really, really enjoy it!

I take a lot of pride in the fact that I am completely self-taught. I have learned by trial and error, all on my own, how to build a website, how to optimize it, how to market it and how to make money from it. Somehow I have managed to land my website in the top 1.75% of traffic for ALL websites! That’s a huge accomplishment for me, and I’m determined to keep going until I reach the top!

Do you work from home, while also having children and house to manage? Yes! Finding a balance can sometimes be a big challenge!

My full-time (and favorite) job is being a parent to four very busy teenagers! Being home for them is what motivated me to start my home business in the first place. I work as much as I can while they are in school, and then I spend my afternoons, evenings and weekends chauffeuring to and from practices, games, competitions, you name it! It keeps me on the go, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world!

Beyond being a busy mom, my main focus is running and developing my party website. I try to work on it as often as I can, but I also do work for my husband who is a local business owner, so I have to divide my time. I do some behind the scenes work for him, and I also handle his company website. I’ve also begun doing some cakes for clients when I can find the time. Spare time is not something that I have much of!

What do you whistle to while you work (AKA-Favorite working music/song)? I do my best work when Carrie Underwood is cranked up high! I love the “sassy” songs like “Cowboy Cassanova,” “Undo It,” and songs like that.
What is your favorite color? This seems like such a simple question to answer but I can never seem to answer it! I like lots of colors and especially color combos…I love hot pink and orange, pink and green, turquoise and brown. I know, crazy that I can’t even answer a simple question! ( M&C I am the same way, I would never pick just turquoise, but turquoise and brown or pink-now those are great combos.)

What trend on the web has you swooning? Cake pops! I am head-over-heels crazy for them! I am a HUGE Bakerella stalker!

What kind of pajamas do you wear? I love boxers and T-shirts. (M&C Me too!)

What does the future hold for you? I dream of one day getting some graphic design courses under my belt and becoming an “official” web designer. I’d also really love to create my own line of party goods!

Finally, If I gave you $20,000 what would you do with it? (Anything at all-it doesn’t have to be business related) Oh, wow! The responsible answer and the answer that comes to mind right away are completely different! I’ll go with the responsible answer. I’d love to get some schooling in, and then invest in the tools necessary to get a graphic design career underway. And then, if there’s any money left over…I’d LOVE to have a cupcake boutique…that would of course showcase fabulous cupcakes and my very own line of party goods!

Now that you know what Passion for Parties is, who the owner is & what Jennifer wears to bed, you know her pretty well! So head on over to her Blog, Facebook, and Website and show a little Passion :)

At what time in your life did you know that you were getting old?

2010-10-19T21:16:00.000-04:00

My "Old Moment" came this past weekend on Saturday, Oct. 16th.
This is the day that 11 years ago i gave birth to my 1st Child, a girl. While I do not see this as the "Old" part, it was the actions that transpired that made me feel old.
Mr. Cookee and I took a trip to Minneapolis, Minnesota to see the vikings and Dallas Football Game. It just so happened that the game was on the Sunday after my daughter's birthday, so we missed her actual Birthday. Although, we did celebrate on Friday with cake, Dinner, and presents-just in case you are shaking your head at me :)
This all leads me up to Saturday's "Old Moment".
I had "Mom Guilt" I left my only daughter, on her Birthday, to have fun-BAD MOMMY!
Since we were in Mn, the home to the Mall of America, we made it up the only way a Bad Mommy and Daddy could, we shopped! We walked past the Nickelodeon MOA Theme Park, inside the Mall, we tried to get decent pictures of Big Time Rush (A Nickelodeon Show that has some serious, Mrs. Robinson looking boys, on the show), and went into the American Girl Store and completely dissolved Mr. Cookee's wallet.

Did you know that through all of this, "Mom Guilt" was still there-so we went to AT&T and got her a Cell Phone! Not just any Cell, the MOTHER of all Kid Cell Phones! (The thing is better than my Blackberry!)

She did need a new camera, and ipod (thanks to her brother), but a phone?!

I have always been against Cell phones for kids younger than 13-REALLY, what do they need them for????
Arguably they do need them-at least she does, I'm tired of trying to find her friends phone # to see when she is ready to come home.

Anyway, I digress, we bought my daughter a doll and a cell phone for her birthday, she is 11 and I became old on October 16th 2011, sigh...

CSN Review Coming Soon-and wait until you see what I will be reviewing...

2010-10-07T12:43:00.000-04:00

If you haven't heard-I Love CSN Stores, & at over 200 of them, that is a lot of shopping!
You can shop from A to Z and everything in between.
You may be in the market for 1 Bar Stool or 50 Toss Pillows-you will find all of them, in tons of different looks.

Personally, I love the search feature, I type in an item & BOOM a boatload of hits.
Like these fun items when I type in Ice Cream:

Yummy Whipped Cream

Play Ice Cream Shoppe

Ice Cream-opoly

Make your Own!

Even Fido Can Have Ice Cream

What about a Personalized Ice Cream Cone Picture?

Head on over to CSN Stores today, if you can think of it-chances are-they have it!

So Behind on the Ol' Bloggy Blog! Thanks 3 Cupcakes Blog Design

2010-09-29T18:02:00.001-04:00

I know I'm behind on my blogging-I guess that this it the downside of being busy with lots of work!
But I'll take It :)

Anyhoo, I just found out that My awesomely designed Blog is the "Flavor of the Week" over at 3 Cupcakes Blog Design! Woo Hoo!

Thanks for the Love Amy (It's all you Girly)!!!

New Product: Handy Candy, Solid Hand Lotion by Milk and Cookeez

2010-09-20T17:09:00.000-04:00

I'm' so excited to announce that we are now carrying a line of Solid Hand Lotions.

While they do not look like the most amazing things ever, the benefits will surely make your skin feel like it's basking in a Candy Party!

In case you are new to solid lotions, they are a solid mix of butters and oils that is perfect for travel and to keep in your purse. Each Handy Candy weighs 1.5 oz each-completely airline friendly.

Also, they are packaged in a tin which makes them 100% recyclable. Awesome!

What are the benefits of a solid lotion bar?

No need for unnecessary ingredients, Ingredients include: Cocoa Butter, Beeswax, Shea Butter, coconut oil, apricot kernel oil, Yum-E Fragrance, & Vitamin E, which makes our Handy Candy 97.5% Natural!

Solid Lotion Bars are compact and Fun!

They are packaged in a tin which makes them 100% recyclable. Awesome!

While moisturizing, you will also be adding fragrance to your body, alleviating the need to add fragrance.

They last a long time.

To add to all of theses great benefits, we are also offering soaps and macarons in coordinating fragrances, making Handy Candy the Sweetest Gift ever.

Head on over to Milk and Cookeez and Check them out today.

Holy Cannoli-O, 3 Cupcakes Blog Design is Sponsoring a Giveaway at Party Box Design!

2010-09-17T11:23:00.001-04:00

You have got to head on over to Party Box Design!

The awesome Jessica is Hosting a Giveaway with, none other than, the Amazing talent of 3 Cupcakes Blog Design!

You may be asking what is so AMAZING about 3 Cupcakes (Other than the business is called 3 Cupcakes, HELLOOOO!). 3 Cupcakes is the wonderful company that has revamped The Milk and Cookeez Blog into the Amesomeness that it is now, not to mention my Fantabulous Website!
Not only do I adore the Name of the Business, I love the way everything is dessert themed.

The Blogs are Baked Fresh Daily, no sitting around picking from dusty old designs!

You can Choose from a "Chocolate Cupcake" or the Indulgent "Red Velvet".
But you may not want a plain ol' cupcake-you may want toppings, how about Jimmies, Sugar Pearls, Quins, and a Cherry on top?
You can overload this cupcake and it's going to be Delish!!!!!
Make sure to check out their Portfolio. Amazing designs, for equally amazing businesses and bloggers!

Enough said, if you aren't licking your mouth now-get a Yummy Blog design for yourself-you can't win if you don't enter! Say Hi to Jess for me :)

What do you drink in the morning?

2010-09-16T00:45:00.001-04:00

What was the 1st thing you drank, other than some toothpaste, this morning?
Did you start the day with a Cuppa Joe, a frappuccino, OJ, Milk, Tea, Mountain Dew, or a glass of plain Ol ' H20?
I started mine with this,

A Shot of Wheatgrass!

It was actually really good!

(And REALLY Good for Me!)

It was definitely "grassy" but the after taste was sugary. Like licking pure sugar on a spoon, with grass on it.

I do recommend trying one if you can. In just one little shot, you will get a full days supply of vegetables and no exaggerating, a BUZZ! I felt a little bit wirey, in a good way, and I kept my energy level up all day.

I think Ill get one after my walk tomorrow morning.

Try one!

Did you know that Paula Deen Designs Coffee Tables?

2010-09-08T16:38:00.001-04:00

I just found out that Paula Deen makes Coffee Tables and other furniture. I adore Paula Deen.

Isn't this pretty, Mr. Cookee and I love eating dinner (when we are alone) in front of the tv.

When Mr. Cookee wasn't a Dr. we would sit in front of our 13 inch tv at a ginormous coffee table and eat dinner while we watched Friends-ahhh memories.

Shhhhh... I have a secret....I was a bad girl!

2010-09-05T20:20:00.001-04:00

Please don't tell, but I went to LUSH today & I spent A LOT of money!!!

Now that I have your attention, Mr. M&C will see the CC bill and he'll choke, but I already have the plan. The trip was for business and more than 60% of what I bought was for research, really!

As a disclaimer, I am not a Lush-aholic, but yes I do really, really like Lush.

I love their concept, I love their "Look", I love that everything is Handmade (that gives me a lot of hope for the future), I love the people that they have working for them, & I LOVE their fragrances.
Unfortunately, I found a few things that I did not like, & I found them out when I got home. They use detergents and Propylene Glycol in their products, even their soap!

Summer Pudding

I am very sad to find this out, normally, I am an "Indie" soap shopper, I have my favorites, Naiad, Kristy's Lovely Lathers, Rebecca's Soap Deli, & Tub Time Treasures, but I am out of soap, so it was an (expensive) impulse shopping trip. I adore Cold Processed soap, and after using CP and my Naturally based glycerin soap for 2 years now, never knew that you would put propylene glycol and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate in real soap.
As far as I have learned, these ingredients make a product a cosmetic, I didn't want a cosmetic I wanted soap!

Rockstar
My secret is out, I still really love Lush, I will still go there, I will still try and buy their products, but I will now be a lot more cautious about my purchases.
I slap my hand for letting my guard down, and not practicing what I preach with soap and cosmetics, I made a big boo boo!

As a side note they also use parabens as preservatives. I do not like using parabens in anything. I do not judge anyone for what ingredients/products they use, every business uses what they feel is best. I prefer to use nonparaben based preservatives. When given an alternative, I choose none.

(Keep in mind, I am also the person who will choose Coke over the choices of Water, & Diet Coke, but given the coice of Diet Coke or Water, Water will win. Take my advice with a grain of salt.)

I learned 4 things today,
1. Mr. M&C will not like to see the bank account
2. Read the Ingredients!!!
3. Use Small business Soaps.
4. In a really small, meek voice, listen to your head, & when in doubt, ask questions!

What a Whirlwind, Milk and Cookeez Conquers the world! hehe, but it feels like it!

2010-09-02T21:45:00.001-04:00

Please let me start this blog off with, the title is a joke.

In reality, it just feels like the world is at my fingertips, the only thing is, I need 10 more sets of hands to grab it!

About 2 weeks ago I was featured by The Tomkat Studio at a Spa Party, designed by Kim Stoegbauer.

Since the 1st picture was published I have been so humbled by the amount of LOVE that I have received.

I have always known that my products would make a great Spa Party, I even made my own Party themes last year, you may have gotten the flyer in your order.

There was the Neapolitan Party, The Pink and Orange Party, and The Blue and Green, all great colors for fun Spa Parties. Each Party came with their own basins, towels and Spa Party necessities.
I didn't publicize it much, just the flyers, but I knew it could work out. Then Kim came along with her Facebook request to send items in that would "fit" with her Spa Party Design. HELLO!
So, FF 2 weeks and I have been up to my elbows in work! Party Supplies, Custom Orders, & Wholesale Requests/Orders.
I am so excited that my products have found their calling.
I started Milk and Cookeez with the hopes of giving women and children a healthy alternative to Bath and Body products that are great for gift giving. All with no unnecessary chemicals, and packaging that is Earth unfriendly.

I really just wanted to thank ALL of you. While you may not been a customer, you have been here reading and commenting and it means the world to me, you have helped me "conquer the world!" Thanks & Hugs!!!

Milk and Cookeez Giveaway at The TomKat Studio Blog, Hurry!!!

2010-08-24T22:26:00.000-04:00

Hello Everybody!
I wanted to let you know that The Tomkat Studio is hosting the internet's Biggest Giveaway of Milk and Cookeez EVER!

If you hop on over there, you will be entered to win $50.00 to Milk and Cookeez!

Take a Sneaky Peek of what you could get Photos Courtesy of Vicki Lynn Photography and The Tomkat Studio, thanks girls!!!

This Giveaway ends Wednesday, the 25th of August at 11:00 MST

So Hurry on over and check it out!

While you are visiting, take a look at all of the over absolutely Amazing parties that Kim has designed, they are breathtakingly beautiful.

I so want a TomKat Studio B-Day Party when I turn (CHOKE) 40!

Ps. What do you think of my product photos? I adore them!

Advertising on the Milk and Cookeez Blog

2010-08-21T22:05:00.001-04:00

Milk and Cookeez is now offering Advertising on our Blog.

Thanks for your interest in Advertising on the Milk and Cookeez Blog.
If you are interested in Advertising with us, please email tammyb@milkandcookeez.com

Currently we are accepting 2 Advertising Spots that will run for 3 months.
Each Spot holds a 125x125 square or round button.
We are accepting PNG or JPEG files.
Also, we do not accept blinkie/animated buttons.

The Cost for 3 Months of Advertising is $20.00.
I will send you a Paypal request upon agreement.

Please Contact me for more info or to answer any questions that you may have.
Have a sweet day,
Tammy

Dipped Apple Soaps, Candy, Caramel, & Poison, eeek

2010-08-18T14:06:00.000-04:00

Autumn is in the air and so are crisp, juicy apples. I'm a Macintosh Girl. I love those juicy, oh so sweet apples, YUM! My family and I love to go apple picking, we usually go in September. Which is why I wanted to get a jump on apple season this year!

Milk and Cookeez is now offering 3 different varieties of Dipped Apples.

First we have a savory Sea Salt and Caramel Apple, a sweet caramel with a kick of salt all blended with crisp apples. Our Own custom Fragrance blend.

Next we have a Super Sweet Candy Apple, lots of Sugar, lots of Apple, Yum-E!

Finally, we have a, "Bitten Into" Poison Apple.

This Apple looks like a yummy candy apple, but inside it's a Poisonous Neon Green.

The fragrance of this Creepy Candy Apple is our Newest Fall fragrance, Cranberry Apple Cider.

A sweet and spicy Cranberry Apple Fragrance.

We've got Novelty Fall Soaps you'll need to host all of your Autumn fun.

Check them out today.

Milk and Cookeez Wholesale Purchasing & New Party Favors Coming Soon!

2010-08-17T10:47:00.000-04:00

Just a Quick Hello!
Lots going on right now,
Wholesale Orders, Fall Products, and even a super fun Custom Order!

Be on the lookout, when I get the chance I'll be offering 3 Products available for Custom Orders.
Cupcake Soaps
Rock Candy Soaps
& Lollipop Soaps

Each will have Custom Colors and a Choice of 3 Different Fragrances, all at a discounted Price, when ordered in Bulk.

Don't Forget, if you know of a business that is interested in Wholesale Purchasing, please Click Here.

Business 101 with Milk and Cookeez, "Letting Go"

2010-08-10T11:07:00.002-04:00

Welcome Class, it's so nice to have you here today and Milk and Cookeez Business Academy.

Sit back, in your plush micro fiber beanbag,and relax in our 72 degree, Partly Sunny room, and relax your cares away as we learn a little bit about business.

Today we will be learning about "Letting Go" of Non-Selling Products.

I am a Professional in this field. I am completely guilty of not letting go of products that are a part of my business. Why do I do this, because I know them and I am comfortable.

Do you do this? Are you guilty of not "Letting Go"?

You need to take a look at the products you carry, you need to reevaluate at least every 2-3 months.

For the sake of this "Lesson" Lets use Product A as our non-selling product.

Product A has not sold in 8 weeks.

You have to ask yourself 2 questions.

1. Is there a reason it is not selling?

Maybe it's lost in ETSY's never ending listings or you have not had enough PR behind Product A.

Could you offer it in a different Fragrance, color, style?

Are customers confused about how to use it? Is it priced to high/low?

The Why Questions are endless, only you can ask the right questions.

I am merely a vessel my Young Padawans.

2. Are you willing to remove Product A from your lineup?

This is the hard part, at least for me, being a professional and all!

Are you emotionally attached to your product?

Do you think-soon it will sell, soon it will get picked up by others and fly off of the shelves?

Do you reach the point that you are so comfortable with Product A that you can not imagine (bite my tongue) not selling Product A?

Well, it is time to cut the cord, time to let someone else take the reigns and have their chance at Product A.

There is and will always be someone else who can do it, maybe not just like you, but it can be done.

It is OK to pull out the tissues now, it will be OK, I promise!

Class, it is time to let go!

Time to give in and focus your energy elsewhere.

You have other wonderfully selling products, products that demand your attention.

Focus on Products B,C, & D these are your sellers, these give you your "Branding" (Lesson #2).

It is about keeping it all clean, neat, and tidy. Keep Sales up and your bottom line down.

Product A has drug you down long enough, Good Bye Product A, it has been swell, but I'll be moving on and so will you.

Hello Product B and welcome to the Roller Coaster we call business.

Do you have a Product A?

Leave your link to Product A, maybe we can help turn your Product A into a seller.

Did this help you focus on your product lineup?

......Come on Down, you are the Winner of The Twinery Giveaway!

2010-08-05T21:22:00.000-04:00

And the Winner of the Giveaway with The Twinery is, drum Roll Please...

Annie!!! YAY Annie!!!

Annie said...

Picking just one is so hard! I love Caribbean.
So simple yet so cute on on any package.

Congratulations Annie, I'll be in touch shortly for your information.

Make sure to send a picture of how you used your twine-I'll need some creative ideas-other than for work :)

Ice Cream and Clean: Milk and Cookeez, New Soap Pop Available

2010-08-02T15:10:00.000-04:00

Ice Cream and Clean: Milk and Cookeez, New Soap Pop Available

The Twinery, Perks!

2010-08-02T12:37:00.000-04:00

Did you know, if you visit The Twinery's Blog you can download FREE Printables to coordinate with your twine purchase??

How awesome is that!
If you haven't entered to win your own twine from The Twinery, visit my Giveaway Post and enter NOW!
Time is running out, the giveaway ends on Wed. Aug. 4th at 11:59 pm.

CSN Giveaway Winner!

2010-08-01T23:40:00.000-04:00

Way to Go #2o, Debbie!!

A Big Congrats to Debbie,who said:
I love Christmasy scents for the winter!
I'll be emailing you soon with your Code to Spend $40.00, any way you would like at CSN Stores!

OMG-I can't believe "Jake Ryan" lives by my hometown!

2010-07-31T18:07:00.000-04:00

So, I'm surfing away today and I see a "Where are they now" piece. I read on and there is Jake Ryan, You know, from Sixteen Candles-a quintessential 80's teen movie, done by the great John Hughes.

I have loved Jake Ryan since I was 12 years old!

Ohhhh Jake!

Anyhoo-now I am a grown up and have my own "Jake" (Bill),

but I can't help keep those girlish thoughts away.

Turns out Jake, AKA Michael Schoeffling, lives near my old hometown in the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Area of Pa!

Oh, if I were 12 again.....

The Twinery Feature, Discount Code, & Giveaway-Wowza!

2010-07-31T08:40:00.002-04:00

This Giveaway has ended.
I recently had the pleasure of meeting Nicole, the Owner of The Twinery a great Small Business that sells 1 wonderful product, twine, of course! Nicole is graciously offering the Milk and Cookeez Readers (that's you!) a Free Spool of Twine and a 25% off Discount Code!

The Twinery's twine is made from 100% cotton, it's eco-friendly and made in the USA, it comes in 8 beautiful colors and can be used for ANYTHING that you need string, ribbon, or ties for.

I plan on getting the Pink, did you assume any different? I don't know about you, but I was taken by the twine's simplicity, but also the MADE IN THE USA had me at Hello! I plan on using mine for my Bakery Bath Products, what would you use yours on?

To be enter to win your own Twine From The Twinery, Please visit The Twinery's Website and come back here and let me know:

What color would you choose & What would you use it on?

(Don't forget your email address.) 1 entry

You can gain extra entries by doing the following:

Tweet on Twitter (make sure to leave the link & your email address) 1 entry

Post it on your Facebook Page (make sure to leave the link and your email address) 1 entry

Blog about this Giveaway (make sure to leave the link and your email address) 1 entry

If you are not a gambler or would rather not wait, Nicole is also offering a Discount Code:

Visit The Twinery and at checkout use the code: COOKEEZ25

Giveaway Ends Wed August 4th, 11:59 pm

JELLIO Awesomeness, Thanks to Ice Cream and Clean and me!

2010-07-30T21:05:00.000-04:00

Super Fun and Super Sweetness, compliments of JELLIO.com.
Just when I thought I had everything I could ever want in a work/my space...

I find JELLIO-the sweetest home Creations EVER!
Check these "sweet" Home Furnishings:

Gummi Bear Light $125.00

Amazing Button Candy Bench $1,200

Cupcake Seat $900

Cupcake Table $750.00

You can See their Ice Cream Inspired Creations @ Ice Cream and Clean.com

Someone help me out of the rabbit hole-I like it here too much.

Thank you JELLIO, Mario Marsicano, for some amazing creations!

Milk and Cookeez, New Product Alert~ French Macron Fizzies

2010-07-27T17:39:00.000-04:00

French "Fizzy" Macrons in Cozy/Sweet Fall Fragrances.

Enjoy a soothing bath, pedicure or manicure soap with our Fizzy Macrons, OO LaLa.

Our Fizzies are made with a generous helping of Apricot Kernel Oil (which absorbs into the skin quickly, leaving you moisturized & soft). We use a natural soap base for the "cream" in the center.

Get Clean and moisturized all in one.

Fragrances Available:

Pink-Cranberry Apple Cider, with a cinnamon buttercream center

Yellow-Pear Quince, with a cinnamon buttercream center

Brown-Maple, with a honey center

These will be sold as a Variety 3 pack and individually soon @ www.milkandcookeez.com, in the Bath Bakery Section.

These are 96% Natural too!

Another Milk and Cookeez Giveaway is Coming! Courtesy of The Twinery

2010-07-26T12:13:00.000-04:00

I have been fortunate to been given the opportunity to Spotlight another Wonderful Business,

The Twinery.

Why am I so excited?

Well, I have the perfect New Product that will look great with this twine and I can't wait to get some!

Why should you be excited,

You can win your own Twine from The Twinery

and we will be offering you a Discount Code too!

How Awesome is that!?!!

Don't forget to enter our Current Giveaway with CSN STORES, it ends on Friday July 30th.

CLOSED~It's Here! The CSN Stores Giveaway,ala Milk and Cookeez Style

2010-07-19T13:42:00.001-04:00

It's a CSN Stores Giveaway, Hosted by Milk and Cookeez.
What can you win?
You will receive a $40.00 Gift Card, to spend on anything that you desire in over 200 stores!!!

For your enjoyment, I have done a bit of "Virtual Shopping" Milk and Cookeez Style!

First we have our Studio section- Every "Yum-E" product has to be made somewhere.

And we all know that every "Cook" needs a sweet apron to do it in.

Next you need your tools.

As a very wise man, my Dad, once told me,

"If you've got the tools, you've got the talent."

You've got the tools, you've got the ideas, & you've got the eye candy (which makes everything sweet!).

Head over to CSN Stores and find your "Sweetness" and let me know what makes your sweet tooth ache.

You will be entered to win a $40.00 Gift Certificate to CSN Stores, to spend any way that you would like!

How SWEET is that!!

~~To Be entered to win:~~

~~Follow the Entry Rules below, also add your email address for each entry.~~

~~1. Leave a Comment telling me what your favorite item is on the CSN Site.~~

~~1 Entry~~

~~2. Blog, Tweet, or Facebook about this giveaway.~~

1 Entry for Each,

~~Possibility for 3 entries, should you do all 3~~

~~You must leave the link to have your entry counted, should it be chosen.~~

~~3. Visit Milk and Cookeez.com and let me know what fragrance you would like to have for Fall or Winter.~~

~~1 Entry~~

~~4. Take our Milk and Cookeez Button and Display it on your Blog.~~

~~You can Copy/Paste and link to~~ ~~http://www.milkandcookeez.com/~~

2 Entries,

~~You must leave the link to have your entry counted, should it be chosen~~

The Winner will be chosen by Random.Org on Friday, July 30th

There is a Giveaway Coming from CSN Stores!!!!

2010-07-13T20:12:00.000-04:00

Have you ever visited CSN Stores?
These stores are great!
They have a ton of things, from purses to platform beds!!

You can find just about anything you need here.

To let you see what they have to offer, I will be hosting a Giveaway Next week,
keep a look out-it's Coming Soon :)

Dear Frequent Commenter & Spammer Extraordinaire

2010-07-11T20:15:00.000-04:00

Hello 婉婷

While I appreciate the time it takes you to link whatever you are linking to all of my blogs-I would appreciate if you did not!

I am not fond of the constant rejection that I have to give you. (I do not like to reject anyone and you have forced my hand, many times.)

Your wonderful links (that I DO NOT visit) take up your precious time and waste mine, so please visit someone who cares, spam them!

I have no time for your games, nor the untranslatable comment that even my Google Translate can not figure out!

Have a Super Dee Duper Sweet Day (especially knowing that you now cost me 5 more minutes of my life.)

Tammy

Bubbly Bath Sorbet,New Product Available, at Milk and Cookeez

2010-07-09T13:12:00.000-04:00

After a long absence in designing a New Product, which is both good and bad, I am happy to say that we are now offering a FANTASTIC new product, Bubbly Bath Sorbet!

Click Here To Get Yours Today

We are offering it in 2 refreshing Summer Fragrances, Orange Cream and Lemon Mint.

This Sorbet is full of bubbles, sugar, all in a great sorbet texture.

Included with your purchase is a recyclable wooden spoon to "serve" yourself.

Each container includes 12 ounces of Bubbly Bath Sorbet-which is a whole lot of scrubby clean.

Keep those feet extra clean this Summer, Flip Flops can destroy good foot care.

*Even though Flip Flops Rock!*

Some "combo" ideas: Match your sorbet with a scoopz, or include a Whipped Shea Butter-Cream, or maybe even a Soapopz! Imagine an Ice Cream Bath-get Ice Cream and Clean, with Milk and Cookeez today.

Sweet Inspiration, Amy Atlas, Toppings Bar-featuring Kelly Ripa and Electrolux

2010-07-06T11:55:00.000-04:00

As most of you may have noticed, if you have read my blog for awhile now, you'll know that I have been fashioning up a retail display to sell my products in a great shop in my hometown.
Debbie Chialtas, the Owner of Soapylove recently sent me a link to the Amy Atlas Blog, which featured Amy designing an Ice Cream bar for an event that featured Kelly Ripa with Electrolux.
-SIDE NOTE-Electrolux is now offering a refrigerator and freezer that are not combined, they can be next too each other-how cool is that??? I want one, NOW! Oh and I want the kitchen to go with it-Hint Hint Mr. Head Cookee!
BTW, if you click the link you can be entered to win a "Split" refrigerator and freezer, just by designing your own banana split-fun and all for a great cause.
When you design your banana split, $1 will be donated to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund and you will be entered to win!
Back on track...
Debbie sent me the link for some display inspiration, and boy am I inspired! I have been very perplexed on how to display my scoopz on a cone, I love how Amy and her team displayed their cones. I would use big sea salt, that would be so neat!
I also like the riser that she used, I could easily display many products on this, including my ALL NEW Bubbly Body Sorbet!!!!

I have these apothecary jars, and had some chalkboard vinyls made by Edith and Elizabeth, same shape, but I think I may add a ribbon band around the jar, it's very cute.
I also have this candy jar, which soon will hold an assortment of my lollipopz soaps, just like a candy shoppe.
Coordinating ribbon, oh yes!

This is my dream testing area. Imagine these amazing chairs, with counter height sinks, to try all of your YUM-E products out, Oh' Boy, ahem-Girl!

Finally, the highpoint of this daydream, the Ice Cream Cart!

I already have the plans made up for a retail display, Ice cream cart, complete with shelving and a canopy!

Until the day comes when a Milk and Cookeez, yummy bath shoppe comes to town, enjoy Amy's Ice Cream Feature with Electrolux.

I think I'm off to daydream :)

Katy Perry ft. Snoop Dogg "California Gurls" Official Music Video HD, It's a Milk and Cookeez Dream & a feature!

2010-07-05T14:03:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Babycakes Couture I found the "Sweetest" Video!
I'm so out of music these days, the only music I hear is on the radio-no more MTV here :(
But thanks to my Sweet Feature, I also, found this AWESOME video that Katy Perry did w/ Snoop Dog for California Gurls!
It's overflowing with candies, cakes, and taffy snakes :)
I think I'll get Mr. Head Cookee a 3 piece Suit just like Snoop Dog!!!
Thanks for the feature Khadijah, and the inspiration.
Enjoy!

Milk and Cookeez, Gets out the Pencils and the books and starts teaching {More or Less} Part 1

2010-06-28T22:19:00.001-04:00

I recently had the pleasure of teaching 5 young ladies the way to make fun, healthy bath products.
I was a guest teacher at the Design It School Of Style, in Hudson, Ohio. I had a great time, the girls made my job super easy and it was a lot of fun showing them a great way to make gifts for themselves, of course, and others.

During my instruction the girls went from novices with Melt and Pour Soap making, to advanced in just 2 days! First they made a, colored, simple bar of soap {as this soap was to be felted with the help of their other instructors, Miss Teresa & Miss Danielle}.

While their soap hardened, we moved onto the next project, bath fizzies.

These girls are pro's now-let me tell you that every one of them made a beautiful 6 pack of mini fizzy cubes, perfect for baths and mani/pedis! I know many grown ups who can't quite get their heads around fizzies and these girls did fantastic!!!

They even inspired me to take my coloring a bit further, the colors that they mixed were beautiful.

The picture below does not do them the justice that they deserve, they were perfect!

These are the Smiley Girls that I had the pleasure of spending 2 mornings with this Summer.

They were my 1st class, they listened (sometimes more than I'm sure they wanted to-I got "chatty"!), they learned, and they can now give me a run for my money-Yikes :)

I want to Thank Jenifer Daigle, The Owner of Design It School Of Style for approaching me last Fall with her idea of colaborating. I would also like to Thank Miss Teresa, for your great help keeping the microwave going :)

I will Post Part 2 in a few Days...

Milk and Cookeez Mini Shoppe

2010-06-11T16:45:00.000-04:00

I apologize for the delay in showing these to you :)
This is the progression of my mini Shoppe display inside of Green Roots Collection, Hudson, Oh.

The smallest Cookie lending a hand.

Bill the Builder-AKA-The Hubby :)

Sweet Little shelves that my Dad built.

Vinyl Chalkboard & Jar Labels thought of by me, Made by Edith & Elizabeth

It is almost finished!

A few more Scoopz to make (notice the empty bin) and Coming Back a NEW, retail friendly, Cupcakz!!!

If you are in the Cleveland, Ohio Area, I invite you to come in and visit!

You can get all of your Life is Good TM clothing, and other great brands, such as Prana, Prairie Underground, Naiad Soap Arts, Uncle Frank, Sanuk, Pink Lotus, and lots more eco friendly designers.

It is a great place, with a great Philosophy and even better people!

What do you want to be when you grow up?

2010-06-11T14:41:00.000-04:00

I remember being asked that question as a child.
My answer was always, "A Teacher", although I did go through a phase where I would have a 2nd job as a waitress (I did better playing it than doing it in real life.) Real Life, NOT so good! Just ask, Savo's, and Bob Evan's.
When I would play teacher, I would line up my dolls and toys, use a small chalkboard that was perched on a table, and write on lots of paper, probably not so good for the environment, but who knew then?
I started College and went for Elementary Education. I changed my mind and decided to Major in Psychology, with a heavy focus on Children-just in case I got my Masters in Child Psych.
Well, my children came along and I now use my Psych degree on my best customers. I have been very happy and content, until I started my wee little venture. Now, the answer to that question has changed again...
I want to be a shoppe owner!
I want it really bad!!
I had my time, to try different careers, here are a few of them, Arts and Crafts Instructor, Pottery Instructor, Florist, Retail Sales (Lots), Dishwasher, House Cleaner, Nanny (Lots), Personal Care Aid, Distribution Lineman (I ticketed clothes for Lord and Taylor), and Frozen Yogurt Dipper. (WOW, that's a lot!)
It seems to me that Opening my own shop is the next logical progression-combine my restaurant abilities with my creative workings and my love of people and you get... ME!
It's just too bad that there is no business experience, that is my shortcoming. It seems the way that I will make my dreams come true is to find a Partner, oh and a bank (who would be willing to forgive the sins of my past).
Dreams take time and I will make my dreams come true.

When I grow up I want to own a cozy shoppe that smells delicious, looks as sweet as can be, and I will serve every person who walks through my door with a Welcoming Smile.
Enjoy some of the looks that inspire me:

(This is the Main Street in my town.)

My Own little piece of the retail world is located here.

I know it's a bakery, but this is the "feel" that I want for my store.

Same here, but look at those windows, ahhhh.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

Summer Hours & Other Important Updates

2010-06-08T11:14:00.000-04:00

Starting Wednesday June 9th

Our Summer Hours, through Labor Day will be:

Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. 9-3pm

Shipping will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays, as needed.

Please give 5-7 days for your order to process, just like before.

Pricing Updates:

We have increased our pricing in accordance with our retail store pricing.

However, shipping has been drastically lowered.

(Because it has to work out in the wash somewhere.)

Some products are actually now cheaper than they were before, when you factor the shipping costs.

Thank you :) Tammy

Hello World I'm Back!

2010-06-08T09:22:00.000-04:00

Funny thing is, I never left! I have been so behind in everything that a few things had to give. One being the laundry (which is now SCREAMING at me from the other side of the wall) and my Lil Ol' Bloggy Blog.

I have been busy with my Retail Store setup, which still has a few loose ends to tie up &

my wholesale orders that have been coming in.

So, how have you been?

I feel like we have the 9th grade relationship, you know the one-Yes I'm your friend but I have this new boyfriend and he takes all of my time. Well, we have cooled off and now I want to be your friend again, even though I really never stopped!

I would also like to formerly welcome my newest readers, thanks for hanging in there folks.

To update you all on my "Real" Life.

My Husband has a new stable Full time Position, in his field, and we are both very happy and relieved. It took almost 2 years, but life can now start getting back to "normal".

The kids have grown, the baby is now 3 and off to Preschool in the Fall. He Potty trained himself, really and is all ready for school, again in the Fall-This is going to be a long Summer for him as he can't wait to go to school. My oldest is now into double digits and only 1 year away from Middle School (Yipes!) My middle Child reminds me everyday as to why Middle Child Syndrome is in the Psychology Books!

I am now in my 3rd year of Owning Milk and Cookeez, it's been a wild ride, but I have met so very many wonderful people, and been given so many amazing opportunities. While I now realize that Milk and Cookeez may not become a household name-I'm not going to stop trying!!!

Thanks for hanging in their my Sweets, I appreciate your time and encouragement throughout my Roller Coaster of a life.

HUGE NEWS, all Around!

2010-04-14T22:18:00.000-04:00

If you read the last post, you may have picked up on my issues with being in the red. Well, I am crossing my fingers, rubbing my rabbits foot, his name is BOB and he is alive :), and frantically scurrying through my jungle like lawn to find a 4 Leaf Clover!
I'm thinking this year will be black!
Why you may ask, go ahead, ask.... 3 reasons.
1. Milk and Cookeez will now not only be selling our products through the website to Canada, but we have hooked up with a great gal, Carrie, who will be selling our products!!! Woo HOO!
2. After 2 and 1/2 years of trials and tribulations, my personal sweetie has gotten a great job right here in our "backyard" and we no longer need to worry about moving. Double Woo HOO!
3. And just about as big as not moving... We are GOING Brick and Mortar!!!!! We have been given the opportunity to Open a Milk and Cookeez mini-shoppe in Green Roots Collection (although it goes by Jake's Good Life until April 22nd). Some of you longer followers may remember Jake's as the 1st retail shop our products were carried in, back in 2008.
Thing is, now we won't just have a shelf or stand, we will have an 8 foot by about 10 foot high space to sell in. It's a primo spot too-straight back from the front door! I will be decorating it in true Milk and Cookeez fashion, no plain ol shelves and racks, a true mini shop and it's all mine :)
I am OVER THE MOON! I will be loading pictures as the design progresses, but for now, my sweetie starts his awesome job in 1 week, I will finish my humungo order to Canada, and thoughts of colors, shelving, and bakery cases fill my brain :)
I wish all of you the happiness that I feel right now, and have for about 3 days. You all ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!!

Because this is who I am, an this is how I do it..

2010-03-29T09:46:00.000-04:00

I believe is disclosure, I have no shame in talking about money, lots of it or NONE. I'm the open book type of person, the one who sometimes needs to think for 1 extra second before they open their mouth. When I smile I'm happy, when I growl, I'm NOT!

I recently did the Milk and Cookeez books, and after a FANTASTIC Year of sales, Wholesale Clients, and a holiday boutique, I came out in the RED!!!

I'm not going to show the w-2, but the year was BANNER, the Sales were FANTASTIC, no exaggerating, but why Red?? Now I have to delve into the inner workings of business, what did I do wrong, why did I not turn black??

1. I'm a Player, If I want to try it, I do. I add new, exciting, yet no selling products to my line up, that has to stop!
2. I'm a Buyer, Ribbon Buyer that is, and ribbon, no matter how pretty, is fickle, I LOVE it for something in the store, then get it home, and BOOM, not as great as I thought. That has to stop!
3. I'm Old School, I run my business the way they used to be run, in the 40's. That doesn't work with the way taxes are these days, I need better software. That has to stop, I need a GREAT Software Program!

Lots has to stop and even more has to start, this "Hobby Business" of mine has taken a turn, when you are only a little in the red after 1 full year of business-that is GREAT! (Since the rule of thumb is 3 years.) But Milk and Cookeez needs to FOCUS. You will notice product changes in the future, we may add and we may delete, but it's all for us and YOU!
Let me know what you like, I may just add it to our reorganization.
I need your help and I NEED to stay away from the ribbon aisle!

If you own a business, how do you keep the bottom line abouve the red mark or better yet WAY ABOVE the red mark? I might need some help.

What do you do with your labels?

2010-03-18T08:28:00.000-04:00

I have a bug-a labeling bug! Lately, if it can be printed, it's going on a label.
Thankfully, I have an in, and I'll let you in on it, Onlinelabels.com.
I love them. I have used OnlineLabels.com since I first decided to make the decision to start my business, back in 2008.
They have almost any size that you can imagine, in tons of shapes too. They have stars, and shamrocks(which my kids wore to school in green yesterday), and my favorite, circles, tons and tons of circles!
Since I've developed and bug with labels, I'm not just using them for my products.

My "baby" turns 3 this month and I decided that I would make him the decorations for the party.
He chose a stock photo of a blue dinosaur and it's gone from there. We will have labeled napkin holders, labeled party bags, labels on the water bottles, and labels that will act as balloon holders on the table.
This is a 4 years and under party, so the "theme" can be all over, without being overdone.

Once again, Onlinelabels.com comes to my rescue. They are great for business, personal needs, and "stickering" fun. They also offer 2 great perks, you can order by the single sheet, great when you aren't sure about how a label will look on a product and Maestro (my ultimate helper) a printing program that will help your labels print out perfectly, no exaggeration!
If you are getting ready to reorganize for spring, hosting a Party and want personalized products, or just want to label that old CD collection, Onlinelabels has you covered, in adhesive :)

This review was compensated in coupon form, however, it is also my opinion that Onlinelabels.com is a superior Company that should be blogged about.

CSN Stores and a New Eco Friendly Hadaki Bag

2010-03-16T13:40:00.000-04:00

I was recently contacted by CSN Stores about reviewing an item from their gagillion, & by gagillion I mean a bazillion, items in over 200 stores! With all of the choices I had to really think about what kind of product I would like.

Did I want cookware, no.

Did I want strollers, nope-we are out of that stage, thankfully.

Did I want a tv wall mount, no, but my hubby does! (Now I can tell him where to go!)

I wanted something for me! I wanted something Eco Friendly, I wanted something Springy, I wanted something, kidproof, I wanted this!

So, I chose this Eco Friendly purse/bag from Hadaki. It has it all and my friends are envious, they want one too!

Features:

•Constructed of printed coated cotton
•Magnetic snap closure opens to interior
•Two large interior pockets
•Key ring on the interior
•Adjustable shoulder strap
•Contrast stitching
•Eco-friendly
•Weight: 2 lbs
•Dimensions: 10.6" H x 10.8" W

I absolutely love that not only is this an American Company, based in New Orleans, La but they have a whole line of bags that coordinate. They make purses, laptop bags, lunch pods, backpacks, cell phone holders and more. The best part-you can get them all in a CSN Store!

I've been checking out CSN Store for a bit now, and let me tell you-if you are looking for ANYTHING, you should check out CSN Stores and if you aren't looking for anything-you will be once you visit all of their amazing shops.

Head on over now, type in whatever you think you would like and POOF, I'm sure they will have it!

(My favorite search word, Cupcakes, try it!)

All About CSN, From CSN:

CSN Stores began with just two employees, Niraj and Steve, and one online shop.
In year two, CSN added three more Web-based stores. In year three, CSN added nine more stores. From that point onward, CSN Stores went into hyper drive to become what is now one of the Top 3 home and office goods e-tailers in the country, according to Internet Retailer.
At this moment, CSN Stores, a $200 million company, is comprised of more than 200 different shopping sites under the overall csnstores.com umbrella.
This review was sponsored by CSN Stores.

Change, eeek, Yep it's that time!

2010-03-10T22:41:00.000-05:00

It's Personal Time!
I have a looooooong history of weight issues. Who knows if it's predisposition, lifestyle, both, neither, heredity, or the moon, but I have weight issues!
I was overweight until I was 19 years old, at which point I was away at school and lost a lot of weight, from a size 14 to an 8/10. Thing is, I never knew that I had lost the weight, heck I really didn't even make it a goal-it just happened. I changed, I was active, I ate healthy, well as healthy as a college student who would rather saw a few bucks for a Frat Party would be.
Then I came home, the weight didn't fly back on it was very slow, thankfully.
When I met my husband I was a solid size 10.
Fast forward 16 years, 3 kids and 8 sizes, Im back and past where I once was-Why is that?
Yes, I have a diagnosed Hypothyroid (for those of you who are not my Dr. I won't take my meds.-but that is another blog).
How did I let this happen??? After my 1st born, I lost the 24 lbs I gained within a month and was back to a 12/14 (pre pregnancy). That I was OK with. After my 2nd I gained 20 lbs, he was 10 of them-Yowza-so where did it go wrong then?
I know that I am not a couch potato, Yes, I love a good cupcake, heck anything baked! I love baked items.
Do I exercise, NO!!! I don't I completely admit it-should I, HELL YA!
Than Why don't I you ask-I hate it! Hate Hate Hate IT! (I tell my kids to never say hate, but I hate exercise!)
I do not and never have liked sweating, I don't like feeling my heart in my chest, I don't like feeling like the next shallow breath I take is my last while I work out. I loathe that I can't make myself get out of bed in the morning to workout. (I used to BTW, I would wake up with Denise Austin at 5:30 in the morning and have at it until 6:00-sometimes 6:30)

So, what has happened? I don't know, if you my lovely readers have any ideas-I would love to hear them, because for as smart as I am, which isn't tons, but I get by :) I can not figure it out.

What you ask brought me to this impass-Life I guess, and this adorable outfit I saw at work, that would look awesome on me, in a medium, plus the fact that I want a stronger heart, stronger body, and I have this idea that someday, if I am ever, ever on TV (with Martha, Ellen, or Oprah, of course) I want that extra 10 lbs to look like it might just be OK!

I am LUCKY and FORTUNATE to have AWESOME friends who ALL love working out, running and exercising (I'm still trying to figure that out!) and my Bestest Friend Sharon has offered to be my Personal Trainer (She is also certified as one too). Im worried for her! But in the end, I am going to wear that outfit, Im going to loose the TV 10, and I'm going to take care of me, because if I don't, who will?

Shop or laundry, hmmmmm.....

2010-03-03T16:38:00.000-05:00

These past few weeks have been so busy. I nary had the time to keep up with the EVERGROWING laundry pile. If you are a regular reader you'll know that I despise laundry, but as much as it is the bain of my existence, it is also necessary.

However, lately even the "Necessary Evils" in life take a back seat!

So, as my pile looms, I thought-what a better time to "Shop"!

I was "Screen Shopping" the other day and happened upon a great site with bar stools.

I found the sweetest, customizable stools, perfect for my kitchen table.

I also really like these for my work table.

Wouldn't pink stools be adorable in a white kitchen?

I think so!

New Blog Alert!

2010-02-19T21:31:00.001-05:00

My Daughter has started her own blog and she would love some followers.

She is 10, but she loves writing and is just really getting into the world of the Internet.

I have set up her blog and she really enjoys it.

If you get the chance, and want to hear about the world of a Girl in her Double Digits-Check it out, it would make her day!

UPDATE: I Have included her link-I'm assuming that helps :)

I'm Getting Crafty, with my iron and some tape!

2010-02-16T09:50:00.004-05:00

As Im sure you know, we recently redid the Land of M&C and I finally got around to making the curtains!

Now these aren't just any curtains-these are NO SEW Curatains! I do not sew, I really dislike sewing, buttons, hems, holes, and seams are not my thing.

Thing is, I wanted curtains to pop in my work area. I also wanted something a bit more than what you can find at the Box stores. So, I went to JoAnn's (which has it's HQ's about 1/2 mile from my house) and found cute pink fabric that would give me the "Pop" I wanted, but still be plain and traditional.

I made 2 curtains using fusible webbing and wait for it-Packaging tape!!!

The curtain rod space is made with fusible webbing, while the bottom hem is made with the packaging tape.

I wouldn't recommend using packaging tape on all of your curtains, but these are out of the way and won't be pushed aside to much, so it will be fine for the space. Notice how straight the bottom is-I would NEVER be able to do this with a sewing machine!

To add to the coordinated fun, I made lampshades for this vintage lamp I bought at a Yard Sale this past summer. I just used a glue gun for these, and used some light aqua ric rac on the edging. You can see the lampshades on the bottom of the picure below.

Hopefully, this has inspired you to try saving some money and trying something new.

The total cost for the project was $2.99 yard at 3 yards of fabric, $3.00 for the webbing and $3.49 for the ric rac. I already had the packaging tape and glue sticks, but those would cost about $2.00. So total is $17.46, and about 3 hours worth of work for 2 small lampshades and 2 curtains.

Super Bowl, AKA The Yoda Bowl

2010-02-16T09:19:00.003-05:00

It has been forever since I have posted on my Bloggy Blog-sorry about that!

I have to say, I really do love Facebook. You can become a FB Fan on the right.I post both personally and for Milk and Cookeez almost daily, but I love my blog for "Going Off", on a tangent that is.

I have been trying to bake a bit more-not that I need anything else to do, but my kids always seem to ask when I'll make something they can eat :)

So, for my "Big Kid" I made Orea Truffles in the shape of footballs for his Fantasy Football League/Super Bowl Party. They were delish!!!! It was my 1st time making them so they don't look so good, but boy did they taste "Way Yummy!"

This is Mr. M&C with his tray. He was the winner this year in their "Man Dubbed" Yoda's Football League-which culminates with the Yoda Bowl, hence the little VX Flags (that is his team). You can't see it in the pictures, but under the truffles I used a green cardstock, cut into a circle, then covered it with the plastic wrap. Once the paper was covered I piped white chocolate on the plastic wrap in lines and yard marks with the Yard Numbers by them. Just a fun surprise as the truffles disappeared and the did disappear-he didn't bring any home. (Just a side note-this was 1/2 of them-men are piggies!)

Life truly is a roller coaster ride!

2010-01-27T09:24:00.004-05:00

Lately, I feel like my life has taken a turn, a good turn, please don't think of this as a complaint post.

I am thankful for all of the opportunities that have come my way, and all of the ones that are on the fringe of entering my life. There are so many wonderful things on the way for Milk and Cookeez, and I wish I could tell you them all, but for the sake of jinxing them, I'll let you know when they happen.

I just feel like the path that I am on is both long and curved, will I ever reach my goals?

As a few of you may know, our family's life took a major turn in 2007 when my husband's Company (that he helped found) downsized, out of the blue, and he was let go-just like that, he was no longer a VP of a Company. This "hurdle" has made the past 2 years full of bumps, twist and turns, ups and downs. I no longer look at this loss as a bad thing, if we weren't strapped for money, I never would have felt the need to make teachers gifts and Milk and Cookeez may never have developed. So, out of our negative came an uplifting sweet place that lets me live out my imagination and share it with you.

I have such high hopes for Milk and Cookeez, maybe hopes that are very far off, but I have learned that hope can make miraculous things happen.

I hope that something miraculous happens for you.

In My Opinion #1, Target-Wassup W/ Dat?

2010-01-20T11:30:00.003-05:00

In My Opinion is an installment blog for my Head Cookee mind to be heard.

#1 Target!

Target is my favorite store. Since having children, I have found that the mall doesn't hold the glamour that it used to for me. Target has what I need (and a few things that I really want) in 1 easy peasy trip.

That being said-WHAT IS UP WITH THE Discount Section they have recently started?
This Dollar General looking area that usually houses my favorite seasonal area goodies has turned into a bright, cardboard layout with a terrible look of lower market products.

The Comical part is that Target is selling normal, products that I would completely buy, but you put them on cardboard shelves and it looks trashy! If I want trashy, I'll go to a 1$ Store. (Which by the way-I love!)

Target I expected more from you, like a friend asking my opinion of a bad bathing suit, don't make me have to tell you that you look bad-it ends up hurting both of us.

Please usher in the Spring Lines-QUICK!

Clack House Giveaway

2010-01-19T17:11:00.004-05:00

My buddy Chastity over at The Clackhouse is having a great giveaway!

You can win 6 Pink Sugar Cupcake Soy Wax Tart melts.

Just so you know, The Clackhouse candles and tarts are now available at Milk and Cookeez, but you can "Try it and then you'll like it!" a quote from my far out Yo Gabba Gabba!

I am planning on formally introducing Chastity and her excellent products here soon, I'm falling behind, but you can enter to win over at her, newly redone, blog-so go, hurry, buh-bye :)

Yep, you can eat them!

2010-01-12T10:22:00.003-05:00

An amazing baker friend of mine, Michelle of Sugar House Cookies gave me the most amazing recipe for "extending your box cake mix".

I made these cupcakes for New Years Eve. We had our Bestie Neighbors come over, what a better time to try something new-on your friends who will appreciate free sweets :)

This awesome recipe not only had me making, tons of cupcakes,it more importantly, made my cupcakes taste homemade!

Yep, I made homeade-ish cupcakes :) Chocolate Fudge to be exact! They were so yummy, we ate them without frosting! Please hold your Ooooohs and Ahhhhhs until the end.

Moist, fluffy, and not too sweet and not too "fake". Amazing!!!

Now let's talk frosting, I LOVE my buttercream frosting. There is only one other place that makes buttercream better than mine, Main Street Cupcakes (and they sell it by the jar)!

I only make plain buttercream, but on a chocolate fudge cupcake-there is nothing closer to Foodie Heaven,IMO.

Chocolate Cupcakes, and buttercream frosting-I baked and it was edible, thanks Michelle!

A Milk and Cookeez Commercial Break

2010-01-09T22:44:00.003-05:00

Valentine's Day is coming-Get your Milk and Cookeez today!
1. A Cherry Cordial Soapopz, an absolutely delish, custom blend of sweet cherry and yummy chocolate fragrance. First we make the soapopz then hand dip it, about 5 times for a true "chocolate coating".

2. Cherry Cordial "candy" soaps. The pictures aren't ready yet, but these will be sold in a clear heart candy box with shred and ribbon. You will get 2.35 oz of cherry cordial soaps. These make adorable guest room soaps, you can also give them individually to a few "Secret Admirers" (just don't forget to mention that they are soap!

3.Kitschy Scrubbie Soaps. These vintage looking soaps will get you clean, all while gently exfoliating away dry, yucky skin. We are currently offering these in Lemon, Lime, and Oatmeal-Milk-& Honey (with real honey granules and colloidal oatmeal). Coming soon with strawberry and Orange.

4. Clackhouse Cookie Tarts in a "Choose Your Fragrance" These HUGE tarts are a great alternative to candle burning.

5. Clackhouse Happy Birthday Fragranced Cupcake Candle

6.Clackhouse Happy Birthday Fragranced Votive Cupcakes!

7. A Beautiful Home Decor Cupcake Pillow!!!! Made By Gail Friend Designs.

8. Another Beautiful Gail Friend Pillow, who wouldn't love this added to their Valentine's and Spring Decor?

I just wanted to update you to our newest offerings, just in time for Valentine's Day!

You can link this blog to your Significant Other or email me @ contact@milkandcookeez.com with your "Wish list". I'll happily send out your "other" an email with your wishes ;)

Keep an eye out for NEW Products arriving next week!

& finally...

Sign up for our Newsletter, there is a special January Code and a Free Gift if you spend $30.00 this month, but you'll need to sign up :)

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

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SALEHUGEGIGANTIC