TIP TUESDAY #18 - Girlfriend Advice

What are your dreams? What would be your perfect job, hobby, travel destination, adventure? What's your plan for achieving, visiting, DOING something to get you closer to your dreams?

I'm a big "accept things or do something about them" kind of girl. I don't know where it came from, but I'm not one for accepting excuses of myself or others. If you're really passionate about it, GO FOR IT! I do understand, all too well, that there are situations beyond our grasp that limit us somehow. Income, insurance, insecurity ... bunches of things impact our path towards our passions.

Regardless of reality, I feel it part of our 'jobs' as girlfriends to encourage our friends to reach their dreams. Actually friendship is a powerful thing. We're in the role of influencing another person and in assisting them in becoming their true self and reaching the little and big dreams that make us/them happy, proud, fulfilled.

The podcast with CAPITOLA GIRL, Susan, took on the subject of following your bliss. Susan is reaching for her dreams and not letting anything stop her. She recognizes that living this creative, inspiring, supportive life is her journey to becoming the truest version of herself.

Now, for TIP TUESDAY, it is YOUR turn. This week's TIP TUESDAY question:

What are your dreams? What would it mean for you to 'follow your bliss'?

My bliss, as you've probably gathered from Girlfriendology, is inspiring women to foster female friendship. I believe it is a worthy goal to build community among women and celebrate girlfriendship. I believe it will make a difference in our health, happiness, lifespan and make us better mothers, sisters, employees/bosses, friends, wives, partners, volunteers, etc. Lofty goal? Maybe too big? Perhaps. But I believe there is a real power among women that we build through community with each other and I'm put here to help make it happen - in whatever little or big way I can.

So, I spilled my guts (-; share YOUR dreams! What would it mean for YOU to follow your bliss? Share and inspire others!

p.s. And do listen into CAPITOLA GIRL's podcast interview! She'll inspire you. And you never know where that inspiration will lead!

Must be the season for Girlfriend Contests!

My girlfriend JILL MACKAY is dang creative, prolific designer. I've bragged on her before. (Bragging on Jill is easy - she's so amazingly talented!) Her site/blog has a new contest lasting through the end of March. Rules go something like this ... Leave a comment on her site and subscribe to her blog and you will be automatically entered. THAT'S IT! That's all you have to do. One lucky winner will be drawn at random to win a pair of earrings made by Jill with her sterling findings. (Shown in photo.)

And, don't forget the Girlfriendology March Contest which asks for your creative girlfriend story - like a crafty gift you've given or received, a creative event together, etc. You can win Starbucks giftcards and a Girlfriendology Journal.

Both end at midnight EST on March 31. Join in the fun Girlfriends!

Meet a creative girlfriend sure to inspire! The CAPITOLA GIRL

I met Susan through the Girlfriendology Monthly Contest a few months ago. Her submission was so creative and fun, that she was easily one of the top entries that month. In doing a little research on her and communicating with her, I discovered that she is a prolific jewelry designer. She calls herself CAPITOLA GIRL - a persona she defines as traditionally feminine, upbeat, confident, and dynamic. A Capitola Girl is someone who can live in harmony with herself and others. She uses her strength wisely, and always makes choices that are true to her heart. And, above all, she embraces the power of all things girly.

Susan, AKA: Capitola Girl, has a store on Etsy and an inspiring web site and blog. Through every site and message, she promotes creative inspiration and a power to follow her bliss.

This is why she was a perfect guest for this week's Girlfriendology Podcast! Listen in as she challenges all of us to live the life we dream and to follow our bliss.

Thanks CAPITOLA GIRL! Your message of creativity and bliss is inspiring!

MIA - Sorry Girlfriends!

My goal for GirlfriendologyToo - since this blog is about inspiring and celebrating creative girlfriends - was to celebrate National Craft Month with daily blogging. All went well until the middle of the month when I was hit with a difficult situation that, to be honest, floored me for a little while. As much as my girlfriends were there to lean on and send good vibes my way, my energy was zapped by the stress and pain of an unfortunate situation. (I wrote it about it on Girlfriendology.)

I retreated to other tasks at hand and neglected this blog for a week. I feel bad but I also know that I needed some time off to take care of me. Girlfriends should be able to do that, right?! I also didn't feel that it was right to pretend everything was peachy and I was living a vibrant, happy, creative life. Blogs get personal. I just wasn't at a place to share it, nor did I want to change my tag line from "inspiration, appreciation and celebration" to "desperation, frustration and aggravation"! This is meant as a positive place for women to rekindle their soul and rejuvenate their friendships. Thanks to you, I believe that is happening and I'm thrilled to be a part of it.

So, I apologize for the MIA status and ask for your input on inspiring creative women. I'm thrilled to have lots of creative girlfriends but I want to find out about others - women who are reaching their potential, striving for their dreams, *following their bliss. Share your girlfriends and inspiration. We can all use it.

And to my kind, considerate, loving friends - thanks for being there girlfriends! You're my rock. (And you rock!)

* See the next post I'm going to do about someone who is really following their bliss!

Women helping Women - in New Media

In it's simplest form, all it takes is a girlfriend who introduces you to someone/thing you want/need to know. From there, historic, amazing things can happen ... like growing your business, finding a babysitter or cleaning person, to sharing a great memory together or forming a forever friendship.

And, for creative women, this simple networking can mean a new mentor to help you learn knitting or how to market your business. Connections can be made that are the foundation for partnerships in business and creative ventures. Or, it could even mean that you have another person in your support team with whom you can share your creative ideas and they build on these to form a wonderful solution, business or creative venture.

I attended a New Media group today and met some creative, resourceful and helpful people. Each that I spoke with had an openness to find out more about Girlfriendology and many offered ideas and support. One woman I spoke with, Krista, openly shared ideas with me for Girlfriendology and related to the wild, and often stressful, times of a creative woman trying to do too much. Just in talking with her, I was relieved to find other women in New Media (blogging, podcasting, etc.) who understand my life. Sometimes that is all it takes is a girlfriend to share and relate. Sometimes, it's just that simple.

You know things/people I don't. You have a background that differs from mine and gives you a different perspective. I have an equally different base of knowledge. So together, we are twice as smart, strong and, as girlfriends do, have more fun. This week your challenge is to simply be a girlfriend and help other women out. Or, allow other women to share ideas and support with you. I know you'll be inspired, relieved, comforted, stronger and, in doing so, happier. Be a girlfriend. It's that simple.

P.S. And, if you happen to live in the Mid-West and are in (or want to be) New Media, attend the upcoming PODCAMP OHIO. It's June 28th in Columbus OH and is a free 'unConference' on new media. In addition to learning tons all in one day, I would bet you'll also meet women (and men) who will have a positive impact on your creative future! Check it out!!

My Knitting, Beading, Crafting Girlfriends

We're off to meet Dana and Bear (aka: Barry) for dinner. Dana was introduced to knitting a few years ago when I was part of "Purple Tree" - a home party biz that offered all kinds of creative kits. I'm sure out of some obligation to me to purchase something, brought home a knitting kit. Well, the rest is history. She now is a knitting goddess. And, as a knitting goddess would do, Dana emailed confirmation of our dinner plans along with a warning that she'll probably knit at the restaurant while we have a glass of wine. No worries. Creative girlfriends are allowed - to be creative!

That event also reminded me of a very fun evening with my girlfriend (who is a beader, designer, author, blogger) Katie Hacker when we went to a local casino on a bus trip her father organized. I don't gamble and I don't recall Katie being at all interested in it either, so I had brought some beads and supplies along and Katie and I happily beaded in the casino bar. I believe we made a gift for the female bartender!

Do you have girlfriends who encourage and inspire your creativity? Isn't life much better with them around?! Call up a girlfriend. Ask what she's knitting (or beading, painting, sewing, etc.) and let her bring it along on your next adventure. Do the same, so she gets to see your latest expression of your creativity. That's how we learn. That's how we inspire each other. That's why we're such good friends!

Another creative girlfriend Shero - Julie McGuffee

My creative girlfriend JULIE MCGUFFEE is yet another shero! She has a long history of crafts and inspiring others to be creative, she's been host of Making Memories TV show and Scrapbook Memories as well as appeared on Shop at Home network, A.C. Moore Videos, etc. She's written craft books and created products, etc. She's talented and creative.

What really makes her a shero is that she is also a cancer survivor and uses her experience to educate others. Read her blog for a touching story on her cancer and that which took a young man she knew. If you're like me, reading this makes all the trivial stuff just disappear and brings a new focus on the important things - like appreciating every day, time with friends, being creative, etc.

Thanks Julie for sharing your story in your blog and for sharing your creative inspiration with the world. I'm glad you're my creative girlfriend!

Finding new creative girlfriends on the Blog Party ...

At the grocery store, yoga, book club, out walking the dog or at church, you never know where you'll find a new girlfriend. That's part of the excitement of meeting new women - they could become your best friend, inspire you to reach your dreams or teach you lessons (or crafts!) you need to learn.

Because this week is the Ultimate Blog Party, I checked out some of the 1300 or so women's blogs that were listed. I found several that were SAHM (stay at home moms), homeschoolers and basically just personal journals that were often funny, interesting, well written and intriguing. (Don't look at these blogs if you don't have time to do some reading!)

I did find a few creative blogs, and this being GirlfriendologyToo - the blog for the creative side of girlfriends, I thought I'd share them with you. And, I invite you to share some of yours in the comments. Meet these creative women:

* The Beady Queen - designed for women who love stylish jewelry, beaded elegance and handmade custom piece. Lots of cool beaded jewelry!
* InspireMe Crafts - provides step by step directions for unique, homemade craft projects that focus on using paper and ribbon. Fun projects!
* Designers Notion - created for the love of custom boutique wear. Gorgeous stuff!

Any creative, inspiring sites you'd like to share? Please do! And check out these creative sites. You never know where you'll make another girlfriend - or find inspiration for making or buying a great girlfriend gift! Thanks Girlfriends!!

TIP TUESDAY #17 - Hey Girlfriends! Who's your She-ro?

Author, designer, creativity guru, blogger, actress, singer, TV personality and BQOTU (Bead Queen of the Universe), MARGOT POTTER, shared her wonderful energy, wit, wisdom and inspiring beliefs with Girlfriendology in a recent podcast. She spoke of her she-roes - women who have inspired her like Georgia O'Keefe and Frida Kahlo.

Then, Saturday came and it was International Women's Day. More she-roes - like women who have gone before us to secure our freedom and rights. And those women who presently live without freedom and rights and how we need to be aware and involved.

Now, for TIP TUESDAY, it is YOUR turn. This week's TIP TUESDAY question:

Who are your she-roes? And why?

Inspire us with the women who we should know about and be thankful for. Go ahead. Leave a comment girlfriend!

(For more inspiration, listen in to the Podcast with MARGOT POTTER.)

It's all about Girlfriends ... Ultimate Blog Party!

It is. It's all about girlfriends. Right? So many women are finding female friendship on the Internet with the personal blogs that we relate to, inspiring web sites (like hopefully Girlfriendology.com!) and informative, interesting podcasts (again, hopefully like Girlfriendology podcasts!).

I visited the Capitola Girl's cool jewelry blog, site and store and noticed the pink banner above. Hmmm .... she's great at blogging 'stuff,' so I checked it out. "It" is the second annual "Ultimate Blog Party" hosted by 5 Minutes for Mom. Featuring ONLY women's blogs, this Ultimate Blog Party has prizes, Linky love and just a fun way to meet new girlfriends over the Internet.

Check it out. Post your blog. Leave a comment if you found Girlfriendology though the blog party. Just be a girlfriend - whatever you do! Thanks!

Tagged! By a new creative girlfriend!

Anyone who is a friend of my friend JILL MACKAY, is a friend of mine! (I love Jill and am in awe of her creativity and amazing design talent!) Jill has talked about her friend, and fellow super talented designer, BRENDA PINNICK for months - how she is so wonderful and kind and helpful and ... well, you get the picture.

Now, as girlfriends and girlfriend of girlfriends often do, I've become friends with Brenda through Jill and the Internet. In fact, Brenda just tagged me which means that she asked me for seven random or weird facts about myself. I'm not one to talk about me in this blog (it's all about my girlfriends and other wonderful girlfriends), but what's a girl to do? She asked, right?

So. Here goes:

1. I graduated from college barefoot and with a fake honors tassel. (I went barefoot a bunch in college, see #2, so I thought it was fitting.) Hey, at least I had clothes on under my gown!

2. I got frostbite on my feet in college. (See #1.) Ran 2 or so miles in the snow barefoot. Sober. Yep, it was for a guy who never had an interest in me. Had to be carried around to classes for a week.

3. Had drinks with Sheryl Crow. Nice person. She was dating a friend's brother.

4. Once stayed at a hotel with a convention (or "confurence") of "furbies." (Strange people who have a fetish for stuffed animals!?) Too weird to talk about. (well, at least sober.)

5. I don't play games - board games, card games, trivia, etc. My dad was a minister and we had to hang out with the 'youth group' every Sunday night and play games. My sister doesn't either. We played enough growing up.

6. Love America's Favorite Videos. People falling down, hitting each other around pinatas, doing silly things makes me giggle - a lot. Love it.

7. I was the fastest female walker in the Flying Pig Marathon in 2001. Since then, I've done six other half marathons - and never had to use a porta-let. Too much information, I know.

Okay, now I am supposed to ask seven other bloggers to participate. So, I'll tag:

Capitola Girl - I just interviewed her for my podcast (to air March 23rd) and she is a wonderful jewelry designer and an inspiring woman!

Linda Peterson - crafty, creative guru and wonderful person! And her fun blog that she updates daily!

Sorry, I know that is only two but my computer is suffering extreme fatigue (seriously!) and won't let me do much tonight. (And after I had a guy come clean it up today!) Plus, my other blogger buddies - Jill MacKay, Katie Hacker, Margot Potter, Robin Beam have already been tagged and my other blogger buddy/lawyer, Tammy Browning-Smith only focuses on legal insight on her blog.

So, creative girlfriends. Check out my creative girlfriends. Like meeting Brenda through Jill, you might come across a new girlfriend at one of their sites. You just never know!

International Women's Day - for some women ...

I spent the majority of today working on the Girlfriendology newsletter*. It has (thankfully!) grown in readership and is fun to create. In preparation I skipped around a few blogs and sites this morning and discovered that it was International Women's Day. Okay, first, I don't catch the news much with my hectic schedule, but I was upset that I didn't know about this in advance. How could this day come, and potentially go, without some recognition? (And I'm all about Girlfriendship and supporting women - which is right in there with International Women's Day!)

International Women's Day is celebrated as a national holiday in Armenia, Russia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bulgaria, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Macedonia, Moldova, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan and Vietnam. Several events went on in the U.S. today - but not nearly enough!

In reading up on International Women's Day (and they have several great videos about women around the world on their website), we have much to be thankful for the women who went before us and earned our freedom and rights. And, we also have lots of responsibility to be aware of, and involved in, the rights and freedom of women around the world.

How can we be a 'girlfriend' to women of the world? I'd love to have those answers but I do believe it lies not only in the big things (like legislation changes, international awareness and involvement in making change) but also in the little things like being a girlfriend - and spreading positive energy one friendship at at time.

I'd love your thoughts. Thanks Girlfriends!

* Sign up for the newsletter in the top of the right column on this page. Thanks!

Hey Girlfriend - new article on connecting with females (friends & family)

Hey Girlfriend! That's the name of my new column in "Today's Creative Home Arts" club magazine. I'm very fortunate that the editorial team recognizes and believes in the power of 'girlfriends' because now I get to write for, and connect with, these creative subscribers.

Julie Stephani, the editor, is an author, TV personality and creative guru. You might remember her from a podcast we did together on the importance of being creative and crafting with your (primarily female) family and friends. Julie is well respected in the craft and hobby industry and is a very inspiring woman - and, yes!, she is a creative Shero of mine!

I was honored to be accepted into this world of women who are involved in a variety of crafts - home decorating, beading, sewing, painting, etc. They're very versatile! I wanted to let you know about the Creative Home Arts Club too because you can get a free copy, join it and receive the magazine (and get the "Hey Girlfriend" articles!) or you can just join their online community and have access to so many creative women through their online Forum. Check it out!

My Creative SHERO Girlfriends - Meet Mary Lynn!

My girlfriend MARY LYNN MALONEY makes a creative statement everywhere she goes. In her customized and very cool MiARTa car, she shows up in style and beautifies the roads in her northwestern home town. And, if you meet her at a craft/hobby tradeshow (like I did), you immediately are drawn to her and her beautiful smile. I'm a lucky person to call Mary Lynn my girlfriend! She is one of my creative Sheros.

Her new book is called "Memory Art: 30 Ideas for Shadowboxes and Other Keepsake Displays." It's full of creative ideas on how to transform your cherished keepsakes and memorabilia into unique, artistic tabletop and wall art. Mary Lynn told me that she wanted to encourage readers to explore beyond the scrapbook page and incorporate 3-dimensional keepsakes, as well as photos, into their art. (I know she achieved that!) Planning a party or wedding? Mary Lynn also wrote a beautiful book on Party Favors. Check out her books for all kinds of creative inspiration!

In addition to writing books and articles, Mary Lynn does lots of my mixed media, found object collage art. For the past two years, she's been featured in a local gallery. Her business is called Top Floor Designs where she creates "artistic ideas for the crafting world."

One reason I wanted to introduce YOU to MARY LYNN, is because she has taken her creative talents and turned them into books, art, products, etc. Do you have creative aspirations? Like I discussed on our podcast with Margot Potter recently - do you want to follow your bliss? Hopefully Mary Lynn, and my other creative Sheros to follow, will inspire you.

Share your ideas or other creative women I should feature here in the GirlfriendologyToo blog. Thanks Mary Lynn! Thanks Girlfriends!

p.s. Don't forget to send in your stories for the March Girlfriendology Contest which asks for creative gifts you've given to or received from girlfriends. You could win prizes and you'll no doubt inspire other girlfriends to be creative.

My Sheros? My creative girlfriends!

In the big scheme of things, "sheros" are the female heros that made "herstory" (aka: women's history). On our recent podcast with author, designer, creativity guru MARGOT POTTER this past week, Margot talked about her 'sheros' - Corrie Tenbaum, Oprah, Joni Mitchell, Frida Kahlo and Georgia O'Keefe.

Since life often is about the actual people who come into our lives and make an imprint on our personality and happiness, I propose that sheros also are the women who bless us on a daily basis with their girlfriendship. Keeping with our celebration of National Craft Month, I propose that we also have creative sheros. I'm blessed, having been in the craft industry for several years, to have some of these creative mentors as dear girlfriends. So, for the coming month I'll introduce you to some of them.

I came across this photo from a Craft Industry event with a bunch of my creative girlfriends ... Sue Warden, Jill MacKay, Marie Browning, Vicki Schreiner and more. I'll introduce you to each of them and other creative women in the coming weeks to hopefully inspire and creatively motivate you! (They do that to me!)

If you have any creative women you'd like me to spotlight in this blog or on the podcast, please post a comment. Let's celebrate creativity during National Craft Month. Share your ideas, creative stories and inspiring girlfriends. Have fun girlfriends!

TIP TUESDAY #16 - Girlfriend gift embellishments?

I don't cook. Thankfully my husband does. However, if I was to cook, in an effort to save time, I'd try to find semi-finished meals and adapt them to make them my own. (I believe there is a Food Network show/personality to do all that. If I had more time, I'd watch her show!)

Sometimes that's the same with being crafty. I so wish I had more time to make and give gifts to my girlfriends. I love receiving cards and gifts that they took time to create especially for me and wish I could reciprocate with the meaningful gifts they deserve. But time is a problem right now so I often end up with a purchased product that doesn't quite have the same sentiment as a creation made specifically for a girlfriend.

So, it just seems fitting to ask YOU this week's TIP TUESDAY question:

How can/do you embellish products to make them more personalized presents? How do you add your sense of style or incorporate the gift recipients personality in embellished gifts?

One easy project I've enjoyed is just getting some picture frames and embellishing them. I've applied glitter or glitter paint, stuck on scrapbook embellishments or added beads to it - whatever suits my girlfriend's design style.

Now, your turn! Have you ever given or received a creative approach to a store-bought product? Tell us. Inspire us. Give me ideas. There are birthdays and special days coming for me and other busy women. Thanks Girlfriends!

(For more inspiration, listen in to the latest Podcast with MARGOT POTTER. That too will inspire your creativity and appreciation for girlfriends!)

Day 3 of celebrating Creative Girlfriends

Yep, in honor of National Craft Month everyday in March I am going to discipline myself and write in this GirlfriendologyToo blog. If you guess that I'm a sleepy girl with the weekly podcasts, the other Girlfriendology Blog (girlfriend inspiration), monthly contests, spreading the word about Girlfriendology, etc. you'd be right!

If you guess that I will/have/should run out of things to talk about by now, I'll raise my weary fingers to the keyboard and keep going - because my girlfriends, especially those who inspire me with their creativity, are the reason I started Girlfriendology - a place for inspiration, appreciation and celebration of girlfriends. And those girlfriends keep inspiring me to keep building the Girlfriendology community. (Check out the Girlfriendology group on Facebook!)

This month's contest asks for YOUR stories on gifts you've received or given that were handmade or just creative. A few that come to mind for me are the many knitted and crocheted gifts I've received from my college girlfriends Barb and Dana. Each one is beautiful and perfect. And each time I touch the soft yarns and intricate stitches, I am humbled by their creativity and generosity of time and talent.

So, now it's your turn. Share your favorite creative girlfriend gift to receive or give. It doesn't have to be handmade, it could be a wildly-wrapped present or a cool gift from the girlfriends who know you best. Share your ideas! Thanks Girlfriends!

Creativity Guru and Impatient Beader, MARGOT POTTER, talks with Girlfriendology

You know those rare conversations that inspire, challenge and move you to reach for your dreams? And, you know those creative women who are so dang talented in so many ways that you'd like to doubt your own creativity except they make you feel like you too have the magic creative powers they have?!

Author, designer, creativity guru, blogger, actress, singer, TV personality and BQOTU (Bead Queen of the Universe), MARGOT POTTER, with her wonderful energy, wit and wisdom, shared her inspiring beliefs with Girlfriendology in this week's podcast.

Listen to find out how this busy, creative, inspiring woman believes girlfriends need to mentor each other, be thankful for the 'sheros' who have gone before us and work together to make us all stronger. Discover the 'power of we' and 'super girlie good power' along with how to live life following your bliss. (I told you it was that good of a conversation!)

March is National Craft Month so we're celebrating by talking with author of the highly successful Impatient Beader books, Margot Potter. Listen in and get inspired!

Every week Girlfriendology interviews a girlfriend author or expert. Leave comments on Margot's podcast as well your recommendations for future interviews. We're here for you. Because YOU, girlfriends, inspire us to be better girlfriends. And, if (when?!) that spreads, the world will be a sparkly, wonderful place!

National Craft Month - daily creative girlfriend inspiration

Katie Hacker, Lisa Galvin, Jill MacKay, Marie Browning, Margot Potter, Linda Peterson, Sue Warden ... and many more. All creative women who have made such an imprint on my life that you should be able to see their fingerprints on my creative spirit.

March is National Craft Month and I think it deserves celebration. Celebration of our creativity and the women along the way who have taught, influenced and inspired all of us. Recognition of all the women who have paved the way for us to express ourselves through our art, our style, our mindset.

In honor of National Craft Month, and in appreciation of the creative women who have impacted all of our opinions of ourselves and our creative skills, the GirlfriendologyToo blog will be updated every day in March - for the more than 31 women who have inspired me, lots more than 31 sites who entice me into new crafty adventures and 31 x 31 areas of my creative spirit who have been fed by the art of women (and men) who have gone before me and made it possible for me to be allowed to create.

What can YOU do in March to celebrate this month of creativity and freedom of expression? Maybe you can make 31 pieces of jewelry with your own signature style. Or, 31 custom handmade cards for your girlfriends telling them how much you appreciate them and their influence on your art. Maybe 31 ways to say 'I love you' to female friends who are now closer than sisters and who will be by your side for the rest of your lives.

Reach out. Find a creative way to express your appreciation for their friendships. Be a friend. Celebrate your creativity and the wonderful creative women who bless your live on a daily basis!

TIP TUESDAY #15 - Girlfriend inspiration, especially with creative Girlfriends!

Recently I started a group in BlogCatalog for creative women blogs. I asked these female bloggers 'what inspires them' and got back some great answers: children, nature, other artists/art, music, surfing on the web, food and more! As girlfriends we often influence each other with our creativity and supportive friendships. So, it just seems fitting to ask YOU this week's TIP TUESDAY question:

What inspires YOU? How have others impacted your personality, creativity, life?!

For me, as I mentioned in the previous blog post (below) it is often my creative girlfriends. From podcasts with JULIE STEPHANI and KATHY CANO MURILLO, to books by (upcoming podcast interviewee!) MARGOT POTTER and KATIE HACKER (who also did a podcast with us). But, what about YOU? Who and/or what inspires you?

Hey Creative Girlfriends - you inspire me!

Maybe it's Winter ... the cold, short days with little time or decent temperatures for outdoor activities. Maybe it's the long nights where I just want to stay under the covers for as long as possible. Whatever it is, sometimes it takes outside elements (be they natural, human, whatever!) to get inspired.

My friend Penny was over for our Academy Awards party last night. She, as you can see in the picture (she's on the right), is still growing out her hair from shaving it in solidarity with her friend going through chemo. Penny is totally herself - she doesn't worry about what others think and loves to make a creative statement by wearing jewelry she made or fun clothing she found somewhere. And last night she came sporting a long, dark ponytail! It was a clip-on, of course, but it was also 'so Penny!'

I appreciate how Penny doesn't take herself seriously and has such a creative style. She always inspires me. I want to make random crazy earrings after being with her (Penny mixes and matches earrings!). I want to go thrift shopping and exploring like she does with her girl scouts.

Who inspires you? As a creative woman, I always learn so much from my creative girlfriends. I'm blessed with knowing some of the best ... Jill MacKay, my BFF and an amazingly talented jewelry designer; Katie Hacker, my entrepreneurial sister and beading author and expert; Marie Browning, my Canadian girlfriend with over 1/2 million craft books in print ... I could keep going and going with creative women who bless my life. But, I'd rather have you think about it, then share in the comments ... WHO inspires YOU?

If you're up for travel, check out our latest podcast with BETH WHITMAN. Author of WANDERLUST AND LIPSTICK: The Essential Guide for Women Traveling Solo, Beth inspired us all to travel and take adventures on our own. Listen in to our podcast interview with Beth and get inspired, by a traveling guru girlfriend! It may be cold outside, but what better time to get inspired to start planning a trip?!

TIP TUESDAY #14 - Creative Girlfriend Podcast Advice?

My creative buddies just returned from CHA - the Craft and Hobby Association tradeshow. Welcome home Jill, Katie, Linda, Lisa, Margot, Tammy, etc.! (Please share the newest, latest, greatest craft trends and products!)

While they were in Anaheim, I was in Nashville where I attended a PodCamp (a seminar for Podcasters and people in "new media" - podcasting, blogs and audiocasting)). There weren't near as many fun, creative women as I've always loved seeing at CHA, but it was a good crowd with more women than I've seen in my previous (short lived!) technology career. Also what is great about this new world of new media, there are so many more great ways to communicate with others which is an exciting time to be Girlfriendology and building community with women all over the world promoting female friendship!

There are a lot of creative podcasts out there. My girlfriend Dana listens to knitting podcasts from U.S. 'knitting celebrities' to a woman in Wales who talks about the yarn she gets over there, etc. So, this week's TIP TUESDAY question:

Do you listen to podcasts? If so, how often? Why? Which ones? What podcasts would you recommend for your girlfriends? Are there some best for your creative girlfriends?

Part of our goal at Girlfriendology is to, like a helpful girlfriend, share information with each other that makes our life better. Listen in to our podcast with KATHY CANO MURILLO on creative girlfriend groups. Beading designer, author, guru KATIE HACKER did a podcast with us on beading and creative women. And "the impatient beader" herself, MARGOT POTTER is about to do a podcast with us on her creative life and girlfriends. All these are based on being a good girlfriend to you.

Let us know of any "girlfriend authors or experts" we should interview on our Girlfriendology Podcasts - email ideas@girlfriendology.com. And listen in to a few podcasts and let us know what you think. We're here for our girlfriends and we'd love to hear from you!

TIP TUESDAY #13 - What creative ways can you celebrate Valentine's Day for/with your Girlfriends?

Valentine's Day has arrived - again! For some it is a wonderful, romantic day. For others, it is ignored or even a day of dread.

As women, we have the choice to celebrate it any way we please! And, since we LOVE our female friends, shouldn't we show our appreciation and support on Feb. 14th - like we do the rest of the year?

Romance may come and go, but girlfriends stick with you. Don't they deserve a handmade or store-bought Valentine's card, a thoughtful or fun email, or just a call to tell them how much you love being friends with them? Inspire others by answering this week's TIP TUESDAY question:

How do you show your girlfriends that their friendship means the world to you? How do you make them feel loved and appreciated? AND, as creative women, what can you make for your girlfriends to show how much you love being friends with them?

Think back to Valentine's Days growing up. Take some scrapbook or paper crafting supplies and make cards. (Even if they're late, they'll be admired and appreciation!) Show your girlfriends how much you value their friendship this Valentine's Day. Then, inspire others when you please share with us ... what can you do to show your Girlfriend appreciation and love this Valentine's Day?

Just in time for Valentine's Day, I interviewed author, relationship psychologist and women's retreat leader Dr. Karen Gail Lewis for our latest podcast. Dr. Lewis (aka: Karen) offered great insight on the value of female friendships and how this romantic holiday really is all about showing those special to us that we LOVE them.

p.s. And, check out our Girlfriendology Contest this month which is on the same "LOVE your female friends" theme. Win prizes and share inspiration, just by being a girlfriend! Happy Valentine's Day Girlfriends!

TIP TUESDAY #12 - Crafting Trend Ideas?

This week is the BIG Craft and Hobby (CHA) Tradeshow in Anaheim, CA. Unfortunately, after years of attending I won't be there any my creative girlfriends will - dang it! However, I wish them all a great week where they make new contacts, get some business, learn about new products and techniques, get inspired and hopefully catch me up on everything when they get home! (Jill, Katie, Lisa, Linda, Tammy, Vicki, Julie - I wish I was there with you!)

So, in keeping with that event, this week's TIP TUESDAY question is:

What do YOU think are the new craft trends for 2008? What materials, techniques, colors, etc. will influence the products and projects that inspire us?

Just returning from Paperworld in Germany (a HUGE tradeshow for the paper/office/craft world), I did see a few new trends. Shattered glass (like safety glass from car windows) is big in mosaic - no more cut glass. Paper mache was in the craft magazines and projects on display. So, what do YOU think will be BIG in 2008? More Knitting? Crochet? Mosaic? A different style of Beading/Jewelry? Share your creative ideas with your girlfriends!

TIP TUESDAY #11 - Creative Girlfriend Travel Crafts?

It's a little late for me, I leave tonight for Frankfurt, but I thought I'd ask for future reference for all of us travelers! This week's TIP TUESDAY question is:

Do you take your creative projects with you when you travel? If so, how and what?

Again, a little late for me, I'm taking off for a business trip to Frankfurt and Paris today and I have my web marketing articles, and two Christmas gift books - I'll check in from the road but please share tips among yourselves!

Just FYI, the December Girlfriendology Contest winners are announced on a new podcast - listen in for inspiring stories on why we're thankful for girlfriends. And there is still a week left in the January Contest - enter and win prizes (like Starbucks gift cards and a Girlfriendology Journal)! Thanks Girlfriends! Bonjour!

P.S. Just FYI, I highly recommend travel books by Marybeth Bond. Listen to her podcast for great girlfriend or personal travel tips. Check out her web site for the "Gutsy Traveler" and her travel books for women!

TIP TUESDAY #10 - Girlfriend Glitterizing Tip?

Glitter, glitter everywhere! I had the opportunity to go to the Atlanta Gift Mart the past two days. As we walked the aisles looking at what is and what will be in stores in the coming year, we noticed a definite trend for holiday decor in 2008 - glitter! Sparkly elves, glistening reindeer, sequined Santa - there was a definitely glow and glisten to the holiday home decor items available to gift stores to purchase to then sell to us.

So, this week's TIP TUESDAY question is:

Do you like the glitter trend and, if so, how will you incorporate it to your home and holiday decor in the coming year?

For me, I was fortunate to have some DecoArt Glitter paint (Craft Twinkles Writers) this year when I wanted to touch up a wooden word (Joy) that my sister gave me. I spray painted the red wood with white (to better match my holiday decorations) then painted it with several coats of this glitter paint. It sparkled wonderfully and made me happy!

Are you a glitter girl? Do you limit it to holiday decor or use it throughout the year? If so, speak up! (If not, let's hear from you too.) Let us know ways you embellish items to sparkle like your great personality! (-;

P.S. Someone who must have glitter on her somewhere at all times is my girlfriend Kathy Cano Murillo - "the Crafty Chica." She has great books and spoke with Girlfriendology on our second podcast about girlfriends, groups and glitter. Check it out!

Help a Girlfriend in Bed-rest with your Creative Advice

I need some girlfriend advice. Actually, I need some creative girlfriend advice. And, specifically, I need some creative girlfriend advice on knitting!

My girlfriend Angie is in bed for the next two to three months awaiting her first baby. (Madelyn, who will only be dressed in pink!) Angie is a former knitter newbie and wants to get back into it, and obviously has time right now to get started. I'm a knitting amateur. I can cast-on knit (or pearl, I have no idea) but lack knowledge of how to do anything except a scarf.

What knitting books and materials should I get for Angie? What advice do you have for her and her knitting education? (Angie - I know you're reading so hopefully you'll get some good info!)

Thanks creative girlfriends!

p.s. Angie's situation is tough but she realizes how blessed she is that the baby is okay. If you're dealing with girlfriends in tough situations (like losing a job or friend, divorce, etc.), listen in to the most recent Girlfriendology Podcast. Caroline Cheshire of HealingBaskets.com (and her beautiful British accent!) talked with me about how to care for friends dealing with life. Her passion for helping people support their friends and family is beautiful and inspiring!

TIP TUESDAY #9 - Creative Girlfriend Tips

Don't you love the New Year? Such a great time for starting over, making new goals and resolutions and for trying new things.

2008 awaits and you get to choose how to spend your time and what creative adventures you'll go on. So, this week's TIP TUESDAY question is:

What new fun crafts or creative things do you want to do in 2008?

For me, I'm tempted to try some new crafts - felting, book-making, more metal/wire work. Recently two amazing girlfriends and creative gurus/authors Marie Browningand Katie Hackersent me books for the Girlfriendology "Great Girlfriend Gift Giveaway." Of course I had to look through the books before sending to participants in the December Girlfriendology Contest so now I'm inspired do do more beading, paper crafting and metal work.

What creative adventures are you planning for 2008? Share and inspire others!

Girlfriendology Contest - VOTE for your favorite Girlfriend Story

Stop by Girlfriendology to vote for your favorite girlfriend story! Just a few excerpts:

(1) ... It really made me love the neighborhood because I had such a great friend and neighbor.

(2) ... My friend Rachel stayed in touch with me ... She was a good example of friendship to me.

(3) I am so thankful for my friends because they are so thoughtful ... Friends are always there for each other, and know when you need the extra love.

(4) I worked in an ER with three other great nurses ... I'm thankful that I've found these wonderful girlfriends to share my life stories with.

(5) My best friend and I grew up together ... It's like I still live two houses down from each other. We are still best of friends to this day!

(6) I am so thankful for a girlfriend who has sent gifts, encouraging emails and cards after cards while I recover.

(8) ... We are identical twins and are so much alike that I can talk to her about anything and she understands.

(9) I am SO thankful for girlfriends! Without them I wouldn't have the job I do today! ... I am so thankful because girlfriends listen AND REMEMBER!

(10) I love my girlfriends. Each one is totally unique, and yet we're often so much the same. ...
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For their complete girlfriend stories, visit Girlfriendology to VOTE. So, who do you think has the best girlfriend story? VOTE!!!

TIP TUESDAY #8 - 2008 Creative Girlfriend "Goals"

Happy 2008, Creative Girlfriends! I hope the holidays were happy and that you enjoyed amazing times with your family and friends. The festivities and social plans may be over - so hopefully there is time for us all to look ahead to a great '08.

From being an entrepreneur for several years, I recognize the benefits, and need the structure, from goal setting. It helps me focus on the important 'stuff and make sure I commit my time and efforts to what I really want to happen. I think this is good even when it comes to friendship. Not that it is a structured program with a forced deadline, but more of a personal goal - like exercising or eating better. And, to be honest, it is more fun that the treadmill every morning and counting calories!

So, this week's TIP TUESDAY questions are:

What are your girlfriend goals for 2008? Do you want to start a girlfriend group or have a regular get-together with a few friends? Is there a particular girlfriend you need to focus on to help her or be more of a friend? Do you need to make time for your girlfriends or to meet new friends?

In addition to setting goals as a good way of making changes in our lives, I know that it makes me more accountable if I share them with someone. (That's why I have a couple girlfriend mastermind groups who challenge and encourage each other to reach our goals.) Having a packed schedule and limited income, I know a realistic goal for me has to be simple, yet heartfelt. I commit to sending Thank You notes to my girlfriends in 2008. (You being creative may have one to MAKE cards for your girlfriends but I'm starting small with something I can hopefully stick with!) I want to be a better friend by acknowledging how much my girlfriends contribute to my life and make sure that I tell them how special they are to me.

What are your goals? Please share and check back in with updates. Girlfriendology is about inspiration, appreciation and celebration of girlfriends. Consider goals of inspiring others, showing your appreciation or going out of your way to celebrate your friendships. 2008 will be great - with your girlfriends by your side!