If Only Life Could Be That Simple...: Winner Of The Smoky Mountain Minerals Foundation I...

If Only Life Could Be That Simple...: Winner Of The Smoky Mountain Minerals Foundation I...: SARAH MILLER!!!!! CONGRATS!! I want to thank everyone who entered and if you entered and did not win; be sure to ch...

Yay!!! I won!!! I'm so excited!!!

*The MIT Program*

~Sponsors~

...part 2...

...~*Introduction*~...

I am looking for sponsors for the MIT program (if you don't know what it is, be sure to click on the link for information). Sponsoring the program would be a great way for you to gain exposure for your business or blog. You would also get to be part of a truly wonderful and unique experience. The girls in the program are all aspiring models, they are finally getting the chance to do what they have wanted to do their whole lives. If you want to help them, sponsoring the program would be a great way to support them and their dreams.


There is also an important message that I am trying to get out to people about beauty and body image. The program is open to women of all shapes and sizes, all races and cultures, all countries and all forms of beauty. I want to make it as diverse as possible. I want to create a healthier and more positive image for girls and women of all ages, especially young girls. Girls need better role models to look up to. They need to know that beauty comes in all packages, and just because the magazines say "thin is in" and all the models they see on the pages are twigs, doesn't mean that's the way it really is. That's not how they have to look in order to be beautiful. Those magazines also promote smoking, and other unhealthy and unsafe habits. So, you really can't take everything they say seriously.


They need to be aware that naturally skinny is beautiful, but they also need to know that curves are also beautiful. There is also nothing wrong with being "short" or "average", those seem to be dirty words in the fashion world. On the other hand there are dangerous and unhealthy things that girls do to themselves. Starving yourself, bones popping out everywhere, being so thin that you look emaciated or not taking care of yourself properly is not healthy, beautiful or sexy. I want our image to be healthy, positive, beautiful, sexy and natural. I am not referring to the people who have disabilities or illnesses, who have to be on medication. I realize that these factors can have an effect on someones weight. However, there are a lot of people who are making unhealthy choices and those unhealthy choices can lead to illnesses and even death. These people need treatment.


I want to inspire and encourage people who are doing these unhealthy things to themselves, to get the help they need, so that they can live healthier, happier lives and feel better about themselves. Hopefully, it will make a difference, but if I can help at least one person, then I will accept that. Even if I don't make any difference at all, it would be worth a shot. I'm not a magician or a therapist, the only thing I can do is give my support and hope that I can get my message across to as many people as possible.

The MIT's and the models of Skylar are part of the message, they are the image I want for Skylar, they are the kind of role models I believe young girls can look up to and admire. They are beautiful, down-to-earth girls, who have big dreams and aspirations and they aren't afraid to go after what they want. They are very ambitious young ladies. I'm giving them the opportunity to be the Superstars I believe they were born to be. 

In order for them to become official models, they have to go through the training program, so they can learn how to take the kind of pictures I need. It is important for them to learn how to model fashion, do their own hair and makeup, and they also need to practice modeling products. I would like to provide clothing, jewelry, accessories, makeup, and other products they can use for the training. I would also like to provide other things such as skin care products or if they need to get a haircut I would like to be able to pay for it. Healthy skin, hair, and nails are very important.

I do buy stuff to send to the models when I can, I don't mind paying out of pocket, although I am a little low on funds at the moment, due to Christmas shopping. It would be great if I could get sponsors to help. Sponsors get free ad space and I am offering other services as well. If you are trying to gain more exposure and you would like to support this program, this would be an excellent opportunity.

...FYI...

The MIT program is also open to people who have disabilities. You are more than welcome to join, I would love to work with you.

...~*How to Sponsor*~...

There are 3 ways you can sponsor the program.

...Here are your options...

1. You can do a one time sponsorship of $20.00 and get 6 months free ad space or if you don't want to sponsor funds, you can sponsor a gift card instead for as much as you want to give. If you sponsor a gift card you can get 3 months free ad space or more, depending on how much the gift card is for.


2. You can sponsor monthly- $10.00 a month or if you don't want to sponsor funds you can sponsor a gift card for whatever amount you choose. All monthly sponsors will get free ad space for as long as they sponsor.


3. You can also sponsor by providing any of the following items from the list below:


(If any of these are your own products that you sell or make, I can do reviews on them, if you would like me to.)

...We need...

1. Up to 6 basic tops for each MIT. You don't have to go out and buy a bunch for all of them. Even if you sponsor one top it will help. I would like to send them each 2 basic solid colored cami's one in black and one in white, 2 basic tee's in solid colors one in black and one in white and 2 basic tops in other non-neutral colors or prints (tees, camis, tanks, boy beaters, or any kind of basic layering top).


2. Skin care products- clean, clear, and healthy complexions are important. If you choose this option I will let you know of any allergies any of the girls have. If you sell skin care products, I would love to try and review them and send some to the girls as well, so they can have clean healthy skin. Chapstick or Lip Balm would also be good.


3. Hair care or Hair styling products- Healthy, shiny hair is also important and I would like them to be able to experiment more with different styles and such.


4. A nail kit- They also need to have healthy looking manicures. Just a small kit for each girl that contains a pair of clippers, a nail file, or whatever else comes in the kit so they can take care of their nails.


5. Tweezers or products for hair removal- some girls may have a little facial hair that they need to remove and may not be able to go to the salon to have them waxed every month. So, if there are any products they can use to help them remove those unwanted hairs, we would love to have those.


6. Eyelash curlers or false eyelashes.


7. Any kind of makeup or cosmetics- eye shadow, lipgloss, lip stick, blush, mascara, eyeliner, nail polish, lip liner, foundation, concealer etc. Makeup palettes are always good because they offer a variety of different colors.


8. Makeup brushes/utensils or Hair supplies- there are so many different kinds they could use, that would be helpful.


9. A makeup organizer- big or small, so they can keep everything organized.


10. A tripod for their camera. It can be a used tripod, if you have one you don't use, you can sponsor one. This will help the MIT's free up their hands when taking their own pictures and will help them avoid shaking the camera when they take the shots.


If there is anything else that is not on the list, that you think would be good for them to have, you can suggest it and I will let you know if it is needed. You can do this as a one time thing, or you can do it monthly.

If you are choosing this option, be sure to let me know which items you will be sponsoring in case there is any information I need to give you such as what size tops they wear, any allergies they may have, you may also want to know what there skin type is, or whether they have thin hair, thick hair, curly, or straight, so you will know what kind of products to send them.

...~*What You Get*~...

...I am offering any of the following services for monthly sponsors...

Free press releases/sponsored posts featured on the blog either pre-written by you or written by me, 200-500 words with up to 8 links. You can have up to 6 sponsored posts featured on the blog a month, while you are sponsoring. I will also do up to 10 Facebook status updates (once daily) for each of your posts on my personal wall + share each post up to 7 times on Skylar's Facebook page (once daily) + 15 Tweets (once daily) for each post. And all posts will be +1ed.


Also, if you need a press release or a sponsored post written for you, that you can use for other blogs or for other purposes, I would be happy to write them for you. I would just need details so I'll know what to write, links and resources I need to include, as well as any other instructions and of course a deadline.


If you ever need anything Tweeted, shared on Facebook, or Stumbled, you can always let me know and I will gladly do that for you. Examples: If you need me to like a product from your Etsy store, or Tweet it, I can do that for you. If you have listed new items, I can share it. If there is an important post on your blog that you need to get out, I can blog it, share it, Tweet it, Stumble it or whatever you need.


If you need any research done I'd be happy to do that for you also and if you are super busy and have a bunch of emails to get out to people, I can help in that department also. I can also alphabetize or organize lists if you need me to.

...If you are a blogger and you sponsor monthly I can do any of the following...

All bloggers who sponsor monthly will get to have their blogs spotlighted, the spotlight will include a write up about the blog, with up to 3 links to your blog + a list of your top 5-10 best posts. You will also get to include links to your Facebook page, Twitter, Google +, or any other social network you use. It will also include pictures, the pictures can be of you, or pictures from your blog. If you have more than one blog, your spotlight will include all of the blogs you own. Spotlights will get 10 Facebook status updates (once daily) on my personal wall + shared 5 times on Skylar's page (once daily) + 15 Tweets (once daily) and will be + 1ed.


I can also post your blog hops so that my readers can easily link up from my blog. I will just need the code for the hop.


I can also promote any reviews/giveaways you have going on, and I can also post your giveaway links on one of my sidebars. I will also share these posts on Facebook, Twitter, and will Stumble and promote them anyway I can.


If you ever have anything on your blog that needs to be Tweeted, shared, liked, or Stumbled, you can let me know which posts you need done and I will gladly do that for you.


If you have any lists or anything that you need organized I can do that as well.


Also, if you are pressed for time and would like me to, I can do your Rafflecopter forms for your giveaways. I would just need to know what all you want to include on the form, when the giveaway will end, and any details that needs to be included. After I finish doing the form for you, I can send you the code so you can add it to your blog.


I can also add your giveaways on any of those giveaway linkies, if you are super busy and don't have the time to do it, and I will send you a list of links to where I linked them up.


If there are any other requests, you can always ask and I can see what I can do. This goes for all monthly sponsors.

...~*Sign Up*~...

If you are interested in sponsoring, please send the following information to me at skylarmagazine.sarah@gmail.com

Your Name, Company Name or Blog Name, Link to your company or blog, and let me know which option you are interested in. You can also include your Facebook address, Facebook page address, Twitter, Google + or other social networking sites. If you are choosing to do the monthly sponsoring and have any special requests that are not listed, you can also include those as well.


After I receive and review your information, I will let you know what to do from there. Skylar covers pretty much everything, but if I don't think your company/blog is appropriate or fits I might decline. I will let you know my decision either way.

Please let me know if you have any questions about sponsoring or the MIT program.

*Blog Hop Thursday*

Come link up at Blog Hop Thursday. It is so much fun!

*The MIT Program*

...part 1...

...~*FYI*~...

Even though I am taking a little break from posting, while working on the January issue, you may hear from me occasionally. There are some things I need help with and I wanted to share some opportunities with you that you might be interested in. There are 2 parts to this, so be sure to read the next post as well.

...~*Introduction*~...

I started the MIT program so that I could find the models I need for Skylar and to give aspiring models the chance to pursue their modeling careers. You do not have to be an aspiring model in order to do this nor do you have to have any experience. Even if you have never even thought about modeling until now, you can participate in the MIT program. Maybe you want to try something new, or you feel like you need to step out of your comfort zone and want to start taking more risks...maybe you want to do something you never thought you would. The program will give you the opportunity to do all of those things.

If you are looking for something fun to do, something that will help you gain more confidence, or you want to do something challenging, the MIT program would be a great opportunity for you. Women who are between the ages of 18-35 are welcome, it is open to all shapes and sizes as well as all races and cultures. It is also open to all countries.

If this sounds like something you might be interested in, keep reading to find out more about the program and how to sign up.

...~*What Is the MIT Program?*~...

MIT stands for Models In Training. All new models are required to go through the training process so they will be able to provide the kind of photos I need for content featured on the blog, as well as graphics, and our advertisements. MIT's are given mock assignments that give them a chance to practice doing things like...posing, facial expressions, and taking pictures. It also allows them to experiment with makeup, hair, and fashion. The program will also teach them about other important things such as poise, posture, showing emotion in their photos, what kind of settings to use, lighting, angles and more.

It is all done through the Internet, I have a Facebook page just for models and MIT's, their assignments are posted for them there on the wall. Once they have finished taking their pictures they submit them by uploading them to their Facebook albums so that I can review and critique them. Sometimes the MIT's will have do the same mock assignment if I think they need more time on it, or I will have them repeat the assignment until they are ready to move onto the next one.

I've been training my own models through the Internet for the past 7 or 8 years and it has worked out very well. I don't want to call myself an expert, I honestly don't know if I am or not, I guess it depends on how you define "expert". I'm not what you would call a "professional" modeling coach, Skylar is not a modeling agency, it is a blogazine. I have gained a lot of knowledge over the years, I've been studying modeling and fashion on my own for the past 18 years. I use that knowledge as well as my own ideas and techniques to train.

It is mostly experimental for both the models and myself. This is not only a learning experience for them, but for me as well and it is certainly a challenging one. It helps working together, so when new girls sign up, I'll know what works and what doesn't. Each girl is different, they all have their own unique qualities and features, what works for one may not work for the other.

I don't feel that I necessarily need to be an "expert" or a "professional" modeling coach in order to do this. I know what I want, I know how I want everything to look, I have my own criteria and standards, just like any other business or magazine. To be honest, I don't always agree with the "so called" experts, some of the advice I read or hear while researching doesn't make sense to me. I'll see things in magazines that I don't particularly like or think is attractive. That's just me, everyone has their own taste and I am no different. People may not agree with the way I do things either and that's okay too. I like to take risks and I guess I march to the beat of my own drum.

The training is also important because I have had requests from companies who have asked me to have their products modeled for reviews. The training will prepare them so they will be able to take on more advanced assignments like product reviews. I want them to be able to take pictures that I will be able to use for whatever they are needed for. However, I also want them to be able to model the products well and take great pictures for whichever company we are working with. The company may decide to feature the pictures on their own websites or in their Etsy stores.

When I am able to I like to send the MIT's packages that contain items for them to use for practice. The package can include clothing, jewelry, accessories or makeup. I buy the items myself using what I make from Ebay sales. My models live in different states so if I need something modeled I ship the packages to them. Of course, I am a little low on funds at the moment, due to all of the Christmas shopping I did. so I haven't been able to do it as much lately. I'm hoping to get back into it again soon though.

The MIT's often get to keep the things I send to them, though, sometimes there are things that will need to be shipped back. This is something I use as a reward for the MIT's who are working hard and making progress. Even if an MIT is struggling, but I know she is really trying and is working hard, I will still reward her for her dedication and determination. MIT's can do product review modeling, once I think they are ready to take on the assignment and I have gotten to know them better.

I am very picky about who I send packages to. I have sent stuff to models in the past who chose not to model what was sent to them. Some of the items are things I buy out of my own pocket, some items are from businesses for product reviews. When a model doesn't follow through on these assignments, meaning they don't model what I send them, I consider it stealing and it is a waste of money, not to mention a waste of time and a bummer...not only do I pay for the items, I also buy the shipping supplies and pay to ship them out. I want to avoid this as much as possible, so I will only give these types of assignments to the girls I know I can count on to come through for me. I have to be able to trust you.

You get one chance and one chance only. If I send you a package and you don't come through, you will be kicked out of the program, no questions asked! I am even more strict about product reviews, because my reputation is on the line. If a model doesn't come through on a product review assignment, it makes me look bad and I might have to pay for the stolen items. The items sent to MIT's, whether they are items I bought or products from the company, are gifts that they get to keep.

If they don't model what is sent to them, I will ask them to return or pay for the items. I understand things come up and you might not be able to complete the assignment, in that case you can either pay for the items or send them back so I can make other arrangements, but you will have to pay to ship the items back, if this were to occur. At this time, I do not have any contracts for you to sign, although that could change at any time, if too many people break this rule. I won't take legal action, I am just giving a one time warning, if you break this rule once, you will be out!

Fortunately, it hasn't been a huge problem, it's only happened with a couple of girls whom I have worked with in the past. So far the girls who are in the program now and Sara who is an official model, the ones I have sent stuff to, have all been very reliable. I am comfortable sending them whatever I need modeled. Modeling is something these girls have wanted to do their whole lives and they are getting the chance to do it. They are very serious about the training and about learning, I can't see them doing anything that will ruin their chances of getting to be part of this wonderful experience.

...~*How It Works*~...

There are different levels in the training, all new MIT's will start at the same level, which would be level 1. You start with the basics and the mock assignments will become more challenging as you progress. When I think you are ready, you will move onto the next level and will start doing the more advanced training stuff.

For instance Tabbie and Kaylah are both at level 1 right now, they are currently working on Mock Assignment #6. After they complete mock assignment #8, I will decide if I think they are ready to move onto level 2, or if they need to stay at level 1. If they move up to the next level they'll start doing more advanced mock assignments and they will also start getting regular assignments more often as well. 

If they stay at level 1, they will move onto mock assignments #9 and #10 and will stay at level 1, until they are ready to move up to level 2. MIT's have to complete the first 8 mock assignments in order to be able to move onto the next level. You can get regular assignments at level 1, but not as often. There may be something I need done and I may need a certain person to do it, so I'll offer the assignment to that person.  

Once you move up to level 2, I can decide at anytime if I want to hire you as an official model, which is what is most likely going to happen with Kaylah and Tabbie. If and when they do become official models, they still need to continue with the training. They are still learning and if they stop, they could forget everything and then they would have to start over from scratch. I will have you continue with the training until I think you no longer need it. I always encourage all models to practice and you can always do a refresher if you need to.

...~*Pay and Perks*~...

The training does not offer pay, but you can earn rewards and paid assignments for hard work and dedication. I also have contests from time to time where MIT's can win prizes and regular assignments. For example a couple of months ago, I offered a reward for one of the mock assignments. The reward would go to the MIT who did the best job on the assignment. They both ended up doing a great job and so I gave them each a reward. I sent Tabbie a pair of earrings and Kaylah got a lipgloss.

Another reward Kaylah and Tabbie got was getting to model for the review I did for Helen's Homemades, which I could not locate (you can find the review in the archives, I believe it was done in early November). I sent them each a pair of the earrings that Helen sent to me and they got to keep the earrings and modeled them for the review.

When you become an official model there will be opportunities for you to earn pay or other rewards. Not all assignments are pay based, it just depends on what the assignment is. I mostly offer pay for the more advanced assignments. I may decide to offer other rewards instead of payment for some assignments also.

If I send a model a package and they get to keep what is in the package, I may not offer pay for that assignment, depending on what is sent and how much is sent. Reviews can go either way, I may or may not offer pay for product review modeling, depending on what the product is, how many products you receive and how much it will cost me to ship it to you.

...~*The MIT's*~...

...Currently there are 4 girls in the program...

1. Alexis

2. Kaylah

3. Phelicha

4. Tabbie

There can be up to 12 MIT's in the program at a time, there are currently 8 spots available. When Kaylah and Tabbie move up to level 2, 2 more spots will open up.

...~*Schedules*~...

If you sign up for the program, it would be helpful if you could let me know what your availability is...whether you are available any time, or if you are a student, or a stay at home mom and have a hectic schedule, this information will help me determine what kind of deadlines to give you. I will try my best to make them reasonable. Obviously if you are never available and have absolutely no time at all, then it probably wouldn't be a good program for you.

If you are a student and would only be available while you are on breaks, you can sign up and do the training while you are on your breaks. There is also a seasonal option, you could sign up and do the training during whichever seasons would work better for you.

During the times in which you are not available for the training, your spots will be open and people interested in the training will be able to fill those spots. This does not mean you are being kicked out of the program. I will just be filling the spots while you are away. You will be able to come back and continue the training when you are able to. Alexis has a very busy schedule right now and isn't available as much, and that's why there is an extra spot open. She can come back and do her mock assignments, when she is available.

If you aren't sure if your schedule will work with the program, but are interested in signing up, we can always play it by ear and see how it goes. We can see if we can find a way to make it work for you. If we can't make it work, maybe you can give it a try another time, when you don't have as much going on. It may be something that you have to try out first, to see if it is something you can add to your plate.

I'm pretty flexible, as long as you follow through on your commitments. If you agree to do something by a certain time, I expect it to be done by that time. If you sign up and tell me you are available any time I need you, that's what I expect from you. If you know you aren't available, then you shouldn't commit.

If I give you a regular assignment such as a product review or any kind of assignment where I send things for you to model, you have to complete those assignments and they have to be done on time.

...~*Requirements and Other Info*~...

1. The program is free to join.

2. It is for women who are between the ages of 18-35. Eventually, I will be opening it up to other age groups, this is just what I'm use to working with right now. I will be looking for more mature models in the future, however.

3. Open to all shapes and sizes.

4. Open to all races and cultures.

5. Open to all Countries. 

FYI: For the most part I will give anyone a chance to do the program. I do however, have standards, and there may be things that I might not think is appropriate for Skylar. If I feel that someone is not right for our image, I may decline. It's not only about Skylar's image, it is also about the images of the companies I am working with.

If you have a lot of piercings or tons of tattoos, it's nothing personal, it's just not the look I want for Skylar. Hygiene is another factor. You don't have to be perfect, we all have flaws, but I want my models to have a healthy and clean image. There may be things that they may need to do to improve certain things such as dry skin, or split ends. Those can easily be fixed, they may just need a different moisturizer, or cleanser, or they might need to go get a haircut. I encourage my models to keep up on their appearances. 

...~*Other Important Info*~...

1. There is no travel involved, it is a fun and safe Internet based opportunity, you get to do everything from home.

2. Models aren't permitted to hire or work with professionals. They can either do everything themselves, including hair, makeup, photography etc or they can have friends and family help. It is always a good idea to ask around to see if there might be anyone who could help you with your photos. You could even put a list together of all the people who agree, and call them ahead of time to see if they can help on whatever day you need them.

The program will teach you how to take your own pictures. However, there may be times when you will need someone to take the pictures for you. I want my models to learn how to take stylish, glamorous, fabulous photos on their own without professionals, using their digital cameras.
I have my own ideas as far as what I think is stylish, glamorous and fabulous. I'm not trying to be like Vogue or anyone else. Skylar is it's own magazine and it's own brand. I have my own concept and my own criteria.

3. I'm looking for all forms of beauty from the traditional to non-traditional models. I have my own look that I am going for, not everyone will agree with what I see as beautiful or what I consider model material. I believe beauty comes in all packages. I'm looking for gorgeous girls, I'm looking for pretty girls, cute girls, the "Plain Janes", the exotic beauties, the edgy girls, the unusual, unconventional beauties or what you often hear in the modeling business...the "ugly-beauties" or "ugly-pretties". Tall, short, naturally skinny, curvy, voluptious, athletic...all shapes and sizes as long as you are healthy both inside and out.

4. The program is open to moms, students, the disabled, the busy work-a-holics, the bored and unemployed, and anyone from pretty much all walks of life.

5. In order to do this you will need a camera, and you will also need your own makeup and wardrobe to work with. During the training I am not as strict about wardrobe, but it's good to be able to work with various styles. When I can, I will send you things to use for practice, but you will need your own stuff to work with also.

Makeup and hair are part of the training. If you don't have a lot to work with, you may want to consider picking up a few items...a lipgloss or lipstick, and maybe some mascara. You may also want to purchase a few outfits as well. You don't have to, but it would be good to have more things to work with.

There are makeup brands that offer inexpensive products and you can find clothes on clearance and you can also find a lot of great stuff at the Thrift store.

...~*Sign Up*~...

If this sounds like something you would like to do, all you have to do to sign up is email me at skylarmagazine.sarah@gmail.com and please include the following information:

Your name, age, location (city and state), Facebook URL. If you own a blog you can also include a link to that as well.

If you are on Facebook and have pictures there that I can look at, you don't need to attach a photo, but if you aren't on Facebook and don't have pictures, you will need to attach at least 2 photos, you can attach up to 3.

FYI: In order to do the MIT program, you will need a Facebook account.

Once I receive your request, I will take a look at your photos. If you are on Facebook I will send you a friend request, some profiles won't allow you to view photos unless you are friends with that person. After I have checked out your photos, I will let you know if you have been accepted into the program or not.

It is a first come first serve opportunity, once all of the spots are filled, those who didn't get accepted will have to wait until they become available. I will keep all of the sign up requests on file and as spots open I will notify whoever is next to fill that spot.

...~*Questions*~...

If you have any questions about the MIT program, you can always ask anytime.

*Let's Get Social Sunday*

~Happy Holidays!~

...got up at 4 am, made my coffee, and my Christmas morning hoppin...

*Take the Poll*

Hey everyone! I hope you are all having a great day! Can you believe it's here? Up until a few days ago, time was flying and then all of a sudden it kind of started going in slow motion, just like it did when I was a kid. The only difference was back then, it seemed like it took forever for it to get here. I don't know if the world is spinning faster or if time naturally goes faster as you get older. Either way, I'm not so sure I like it, it would be nice if time could slow down just a tad. That is always the downfall when it comes to all of the festivities, they go by so quickly and when it's all over, it's kind of a bummer.

Anyway, I was hoping you could all do me a favor? I am working on my demographics and if you look to your right, at the top of my sidebar, there is a poll. If you wouldn't mind, I would really appreciate it if you could take a second to answer it for me. Thanks in advance, for your participation!

*Merry Endometriosis*

~The Gift That Keeps On Giving~

...and it wasn't even on my wish list...

Well, December just hasn't been my month, it's just been one thing after the other. Things were starting to look up, and then last night happened. I can't really get into all of the details, but let's just say it was no fun at all! I have had better days, that's for sure. I suffer from Endometriosis, if you aren't aware of what that is, you can find more information about it here. I started having one of my lovely flare ups yesterday and was on the couch for most of the day. All I had to eat or drink the whole day were a couple of crackers and some orange juice.

I was in too much pain to move, stand, talk, eat or sleep. All I could do was lay there in mysery. By the time my mom came home, the pain was so severe, I just couldn't take anymore. Thankfully, I got it all taken care of, the flare up is still going strong, but I have everything I need in order to get through it and my Christmas spirit is still here and nothing can get in the way of it.

Tomorrow is Christmas Eve and I am going to enjoy every second of it. My family is coming over to celebrate like they do every Christmas Eve. We're going to eat lots of yummy delicious goodies, exchange our gifts, listen to Christmas music, get emotional when we talk about our fondest Christmas memories, and I cannot wait!

Unfortunately, due to everything that has happened, I was unable to do all of things I had wanted to do for this issue. I had a lot more planned and I just wasn't able to get to it.  I think I am going to go ahead and start my break earlier. It's not really a break, I'm actually going to be working on the January issue, I just won't be posting anything until the first week of January. I'm aiming for the first, but we are a bit behind on the cover. It was kind of a last minute thing, but hopefully we will have it done by the first.

I'm still looking for guest bloggers for the January and February issues, you can read more about that here.

*Joy To the World*

(Bekah Jennings on Etsy)

*Why So Angry?*

...someone needs anger management...

(From 9gag.com)

As tempting as it may be to want to clobber the idiot in front of you at the drive through at McDonalds, you know the Jack Ass who orders 50 million things from the menu, whom you have most likely on several occasions had the urge to ram your car into? Or how about the lady at the supermarket who is in the 10 items or less lane, who has way more than 10 items and waits until the last minute to write out the dang check? Am I the only person who finds people like that to be extremely irritating? I highly doubt it. I'm sure you can relate. I always write out my check in the car, except for the amount, that way I don't keep the people behind me waiting.

What about that moron who obviously got his license from a Crackerjack box? Don't you just want to flip them the bird and yell out every curse word in the book? Come on people...pay attention, that would require you to put the phone down and quit texting. You have to be aware by now that when you text and drive you are putting everyone around you in danger, including yourself.  And those of you texting with the kids in the car, what on Earth are you thinking? If you don't know how to drive and don't know the law or have no intentions of abiding, do us all a favor and get off the road!

People can press my buttons, but at the end of the day, I know that hitting, yelling, screaming, cussing, or whatever other urges I might have, it's not worth it, it's not going to change them. You can high five someone in the face all you want and their still going to be the same Jack Asses they always have been. Instead of getting angry, I learn from them, I consider them an inspiration.

I know when I finally settle down and have my own children, it has to start with me. I have to lead by example and teach them their p's and q's, and about respect, kindness and patience. I understand that if I don't guide them in the right direction, there is a chance they will become one of those Jack Asses and I really don't want my kid to get a high five in the face with a chair. I don't want a visit from the police, telling me my kid has been in an accident or has been arrested because he or she was texting while driving. I don't want to have to go down to the morgue and have to identify my childs body. I don't want my child to go to prison for injuring or killing someone because of their lack of respect for others and their careless reckless behavior on the road.

When we go out to a restaurant, or the supermarket, or anywhere in public, I want my children to be kind and patient with the people serving us as well as the other people around us. I don't want them running around all over the place and disturbing people while they are trying to eat. One of my pet peeves is when I hear some "Jack-in-the- box" yelling and cursing out the servers. If you are having a problem, you can kindly speak with a manager, without losing your cool. At restaurants they have cards you can fill out to let the restaurant know your opinions about the service. If you are not a satisfied customer, simply fill it out and either mail it in or give it to a manager. You can do it anonymously or not, that's what those cards are there for.

On the other hand, I want them to know that, physical violence, is wrong! I want them to understand that violence is not going to solve the problem, it is going to make it worse. Unless, you are in a situation where you have absolutely no choice but to defend yourself, the best thing to do is to walk away, shrug it off and let it go.

*Bee Friendly Friday Follow*

*The Gift of Love And Kindness*

(Magic Moon Light Studio Free Images)

Anyone who claims that they don't enjoy receiving presents, regardless of what the occasion may be, whether it's Christmas or a birthday, is either in denial, a "bah-hum-bugger", or they are most likely being dishonest. I am not ashamed to admit that I adore getting gifts. I still get just as much of a kick out of opening presents on Christmas as I did when I was a kid, granted, I have been aware of the truth about where and who they come from since I was around the age of 7. I also confess, that I still look at all the tags on all of the packages under the tree, to see which ones have my name on them, and occasionally, I even shake them and try to figure out what's inside.

Does this make me greedy or am I just a gift opening enthusiast? I suppose I can be a little greedy at times, but I am human and I hardly think I am the only one who shares this trait. It doesn't make you a bad person, just because you enjoy the whole gift exchanging process. How can you not get just a tad bit excited when you open a gift from your son or daughter, especially when it is one that they put so much love and thought into. Is it wrong to be appreciative of the clothing, the bling, the gift cards, the nice sum of money you get from your parents or grandparents? With the economic struggles many of us are dealing with, these are things that may be very much needed and it means a lot knowing that the person who gives you those items understands and has your back.

Getting is always great, but Christmas is not just about getting, Christmas is also about giving. While I do enjoy ripping into those packages, at the same time I am heartbroken over the idea of a child not getting to experience such a magical and special celebration. All children should get a visit from Santa, they should all have presents to rip into on Christmas morning. The honest truth is that not everyone can afford to give as much as they would love to be able to. I was on a tight budget this year and after getting all of my Christmas shopping done I am pretty much spent for a while. I have set a goal though, next year I am going to help out a family in need.

If you can afford to give, you have no reason not to, it doesn't matter if it is a complete stranger or someone you know personally. If you can find a way to bring some cheer to someones Christmas, then I hope you will find it in your heart to do so. If you can't, it is completely understandable, I'm not going to judge you as long as your heart is in the right place and your reasons for not helping is not because you are a selfish individual. There are plenty of other ways to give to someone that doesn't entail going to the mall, or spending any money at all. There are things that can bring just as much joy to a person on Christmas that won't cost you a single penny, presents that will mean so much more to them than any store bought gift.

Do something nice for your mom and dad, especially if your mom is as amazing and as nurturing as mine is (not to brag, but she is awesome). If you have a friend who is going through a rough patch, be there for that friend...make sure they aren't spending the Holidays alone. Visit your local nursing home and spend some time with the elderly, they get very lonely this time of year and love having people to talk to. If a neighbor, a friend, a co-worker or someone you know doesn't have anyone to celebrate Christmas with, maybe you could find it in your heart to make room at your table for another friend or two. No one should ever have to be alone on Christmas or any Holiday.

There is a lot you can do to give to others, but the best gifts you could ever give to anyone and everyone is love and kindness.

*The Best Gift*

*Blog Hop Spotlight*

~Blog Hop Thursday~

It's time once again, to link up at Blog Hop Thursday! The host bassgiraffe's Thoughts is trying to reach 200 people, if that happens, she will be giving a $25 gift card to Amazon to one lucky hopper! Link up at Blog Hop Thursday through me, and if I win, I will randomly select one person to share my gift card with. Read more below...

If I am the lucky hopper who wins the $25.00 gift card, I will share my prize with one lucky commentor who links up through me. I will announce the winner here at Skylar and will also notify the winner through email. That person will get to shop with me at amazon.com, and I will give that person $10.00 to spend. How it will work is the winner will go to amazon.com and pick the items they want from the site (up to $10.00 worth), and I will buy whatever they pick with my gift card. That winner will be asked to send me their shipping address and when I get my order I will ship out the stuff the winner bought.

In order to qualify, you have to link up at Blog Hop Thursday through me. After you have linked up, come back here to this post, leave a comment...in the comment let me know if you were selected to share the $25 gift card with me, what would you buy with the $10.00? You will also need to include your email address in your comment.

...~*FYI*~...

This is not a guaranteed thing! This will only happen if I am the hopper who wins the gift card. So, you will have to link up and keep your fingers crossed, and who knows you may end up being the lucky hopper who wins the card.

*Sponsors Needed*

~Sponsoring Skylar is another excellent way for you to get exposure.~

...~*Introduction*~...

...why it is necessary...

*There are so many things I would like to do with Skylar. I have a lot of great things planned for the future. I realize a lot of those things are going to take a lot of funding, and it's not going to happen overnight. I'm always trying to find ways to monetize Skylar, having sponsors would definitely help reach the goals I have set.

*You wouldn't just be sponsoring me...You would also be sponsoring Tabbie, Kaylah, Sara, Alexis, and Phelicha. Models need things to model in...clothes, makeup etc.

*Skylar is a fashion magazine believe it or not, it covers pretty much everything, but it is suppose to be geared towards fashion. I have posted fashion related content, but not as much as I would like to. As much as I love blogging about all of the pretty designer stuff, I'm more interested in featuring fashion on the models. My goal is to find stuff created by the designers you don't know yet. I also like shopping for the girls...when I am able to I shop at places such as Charlotte Russe, Forever 21, gojane.com, Mod Cloth, Etsy, and other stores. I am also interested in vintage and love to shop at thrift stores. I would like to be able to do a lot more with fashion, but I want to have it shown on the models.

*Makeup and Hair and other beauty related subjects is something else I would like to venture into more. The girls need makeup and other kinds of cosmetics to work with. I would like to be able to provide them with good quality makeup that's going to look good on camera.

*Skin or hair care products would also be good to provide...so they will have healthy skin, hair, nails etc.

*Props and other items for the models to use in their photos. My models aren't just models, they do their own hair and makeup and their own photography although they do have friends and family help as well. The photos they take for Skylar are not professionally done nor do I want them to be. I like the concept of them doing all of this with their own digital cameras. It's part of the whole creative process of Skylar. It would be great if the girls could have more props, maybe some cool backgrounds and other items for them to use in their photos. There also may be equipment that might be helpful to them as well.

*If you sponsor you can use the photos the models take on your own website or for other promotional purposes. This would be good exposure for them.

...~*Benefits*~...

...Exposure...

Exposure is why most people sponsor right? It would be a great way to get your name out there.

here's how... 

*Your ads and links would be posted on my blog, on the left sidebar, towards the top. Depending on how many sponsors there are, I may have to also put them in other spots.

*Links to your website and to product pages would be posted in various spots and posts throughout the blog...For instance, I might create a post about skin care products and if you are a company that makes/sells skin care products I would suggest something from your store...Or the post could be about anything and where ever there are keywords in the post that relate to your company I would link those words to your site. 

*Once I start getting sponsors, I will be creating a page where your ad or link would also be featured.

*I have a new feature starting on January 1st. Even though Skylar is no longer a print magazine, I am going to get back into making covers that I will be displaying on the blog. If you look to the left and scroll up to the top, there is a tiny banner with the models featured in the stars, that is where the cover will be displayed. I will also be creating a post that will be featured on the first of each month.

The post is going to be all about the cover...it will talk about the model, what she's wearing, where the clothes and jewelry she is wearing are from as well as the brand or maker of the items. If you sponsor the cover, you would be included in the "On the Cover" feature which means more links to your website and products. My goal is to have our cover featured on various other websites.

*I can also do reviews and giveaways if you sponsor products rather than sponsor monitarily. Product reviews and giveaways are another great way to get exposure.

*If you contribute your products and have them modeled, the models don't just wear them for the blog, they also wear them out in public. If you send me business cards, I can send them to the models and when people ask about your products they can give them your card.

...It Would Be Fun...

Getting to be part of this experience and having the opportunity to work with each other would be a lot of fun. I've already made some new friends through product reviews, I think that is a benefit for both of us. Also, I am trying to send a healthier, more positive message to people about beauty and body image. Sponsoring Skylar would help get that message out. You can read more about that at my About Skylar page.

...~*How to Sponsor*~...

...There are a couple of ways you can sponsor Skylar...

*Monetarily- a certain amount a month (we can negotiate a price).

*Products- Instead of sponsoring monetarily you can sponsor fashion or beauty related products. We can discuss details as far as how many products per month you would want to sponsor.

Since I am new to the whole sponsoring thing, we can just see how things go for the first month  and we can make adjustments later on if necessary, whether you decide to sponsor monetarily or with products. If you sponsor monetarily we can start out at a low, but reasonable rate or if you sponsor products we can start out with 2 or 3 products for the first month and we can see how it goes and we'll go from there.

If you are interested in sponsoring you can sign up by sending the following information to skylarmagazine.sarah@gmail.com. 

1. Your Name:

2. Company Name and Link:

3. Company Description:

4. Sponsor Option: (Do you want to sponsor Monetarily or with Products)

5. Price: (For those sponsoring monetarily- (what do you think would be a low but reasonable price for the first month of sponsoring)

6. Amount of Products: (For product sponsors- How many products would you be willing to sponsor for the first month)

7. When Would You Like to Start?:

8. Other: (If you want to include your Facebook or Twitter links you can put those here. Or if you have any questions or special requests you can include that here as well.)

...~*Cover Sponsors*~...

Currently I am looking for cover sponsors for:

*February- February is going to be our special Valentines edition. The February issue will start on February 1st.

*March- We will be gearing towards spring starting in March. The issue will start on March 1st.

...You can sponsor monetarily...

If you choose this option for:

*February- You can either do a one time sponsorship of $10.00, or you can split it up and do $5.00 this month and $5.00 next month.

*March- You can either do a one time sponsorship of $15.00 or you can split it up and do $5.00 for December, $5.00 for January and $5.00 for March.

You can also sponsor with products...This includes clothes, jewelry, accessories, makeup, hair products, props, or equipment that might be useful for their photo shoots. You can also provide handmade backgrounds or other products for them to use as part of the setting.

If you want to sponsor products for February or March you would need to start sending your products to me as soon as possible, so I can review and send them out to the models.

I don't know how many product sponsors I will be accepting for each cover. At this time I am playing it by ear,  but if you are interested you will want to let me know as soon as possible so I can reserve a spot for you. You can either include the information I asked for above or if you just want to sponsor the cover only you can email me to let me know.

...~*Model Search 2012*~...

I am still looking for sponsors for my upcoming model search. My goal was to have the search in the spring, but realistically I'm not sure if I will be able to make that happen, so I'm aiming for either Summer or Fall 2012. I'm trying to get sponsors lined up for it now so that I will be prepared when it finally starts. My goal is to start getting sign ups for the model search by March. I want to give myself as much time as I can so that I will have a better chance of getting lots of participation.

...You can sponsor prizes or gifts...

*I will need a prize or prizes for the winner.

*There will also be 2nd and 3rd place and I'd like to offer them prizes as well.

*I was thinking we could give coupons, discounts, or vouchers to 4th and 5th place as well.

*I would also like to offer small prizes or gifts to challenge winners.

...sponsor monetarily...

Currently I do not have any sign ups, but I will. For now it's just a one time sponsorship. You can sponsor by donating $3.00-$5.00. My donate button is on the right sidebar under the GFC widget.

If you donate, after doing so, you can either leave a comment with your email address or you can email me at skylarmagazine.sarah@gmail.com to let me know. Model search sponsors will get free ad space on the blog from the time they donate until after the search has ended.

Once I have enough sign ups, more options will be available and there will be even more once I have all the sign ups.

...~*FYI*~...

*The model search is going to be a fun and safe Internet based opportunity. There is no travel involved, they will be doing everything from home and submitting through Facebook/Email. Prizes will be sent to the winners through the mail. You can either send the prizes to me to ship or you can ship them to the winners.

*My models live in different states. If you sponsor products I would need to ship them to the models.

...~*Questions?*~...

If you have any questions you can send them to skylarmagazine.sarah@gmail.com.

*Michele Littlefield*

(Mixed Media Collage, Altered Art & Jewelry)

~Review and Giveaway~

...2 winners!...

...~*About Michele Littlefield*~...

Michele Littlefield is a mixed media artist who specializes in collage, greeting card design, altered art, assemblage and jewelry design. She and her husband reside in northern Maine, and she is the mother of 2 grown children, both in their 20's. You can tell she truly enjoys doing what she does, she loves the whole creative process, she is a natural born artist. Art is something she is obviously very passionate about. She puts a lot of time, thought and positive energy into her work and clearly, it shows, as you will see when you visit her store.

She is what you would refer to as a creative B type thinker, her art is a reflection of her sense of humor which she describes as being "sometimes downright twisted". She is definitely not afraid to go there, she has no problem pushing the envelope a bit, but it is always done tastefully. The messages you read in her art are fun, playful, classy, and non-vulgar. Once you have been to Michele's shop and have taken a look at her art, you will get the impression that she is just a very down-to-earth, free spirited individual who is not afraid to use her female voice.

You can read more about Michele here on her blog.

...~*My Review*~...

Etsy has become my number 1 favorite place on the web, by far! It's not just because it is the perfect place to find interesting and unusual products for reviews, I have also gotten into shopping there and I have found some new favorite stores by doing so. I did a lot of my Christmas shopping there and I can't wait for my mom, step mom and sister-in-law to open their gifts this weekend. I also bought myself a pair of gorgeous earrings from one of the shops I discovered. I will have to get some pictures of them, I love them! If you are looking for unique handmade artsy stuff or vintage, Etsy is certainly the place!

I recently discovered Michele's shop and I immediatly fell head over heels for her art and her jewelry. I was so impressed by everything I had seen, I thought her products would be perfect for a review. So, I was thrilled when she agreed. I received the package on Saturday and when I opened it up this is what I found...

I received these very lovely beaded earrings. I love earrings that dangle and I really love the beads she used. The colors are perfect for Christmas. I have decided that I will be wearing them on Saturday. Unfortunately, my camera is not the greatest, ocassionally it will get a good shot of something, but not this time. It's a little out of focus, sorry.

She also sent this super cute refridgerator magnet that says: "I child proofed the house, yet they still find a way back in"...I'm going to be giving it to my brother and sister-in-law for Christmas.

There are so many great things to see at Michele's shop. Once you start flipping through the pages, you just can't stop, and you will want to click to see each and every item up close, because you will want to read the funny messages. There are also these adorable Kewpie doll magnets that I thought were just way too cute, you can find those here. You will also find picture frames, as well as a couple really neat collage journals or idea books...and I even saw this retro upcycled night light here...Her altered art collection is absolutely amazing!

If you love unique stuff you will love what you will find at Michele Littlefield- Mixed Media Collage, Altered Art & Jewelry.

...~* The Giveaway*~...

So...there were 2 other items in the package Michele sent me, that I am giving away. Two of my lucky followers will be randomy selected...the first person picked will get to choose which prize she/he wants first and the prize that is left will go to the 2nd person picked.

*Here are the prizes*

One of the winners will receive this very cute birthday card that can be given to a friend or loved one. On the front it says: "Getting older is not for sissies" and on the inside it says:" Happy birthday to someone who is neither!"

The other prize is this hilarious collage that says: "There is no such thing as ugly at last call."

The giveaway will end Saturday, January 7th at 12:01 am. The winners will be selected and announced Sunday, January 8th in the afternoon. I will also notify both winners by email.

The winners will have 48 hours to claim their prizes, if I do not hear from you within 48 hours after the annoucement has been posted and I have notified you by email, a new name will be randomly selected.

When you claim your prize, please be sure to send your name and mailing address so I can ship out your prize.

Thank you to Michele for giving me the opportunity to review your products and for sponsoring the giveaway.

Like always if you would like the chance to win one of these great prizes, enter using the Rafflecopter form below.

In order to officially enter into the giveaway you must complete all of the mandatory tasks, otherwise you will not qualify to win a prize. If you have any questions, be sure to leave a comment.

This giveaway is open to anyone worldwide.

...~*Enter Below*~...

a Rafflecopter giveaway