We take it personally

Stationery is the perfect holiday gift- RUVAcards personalized greetings

2011-12-07T18:44:00.001-08:00

In today's crazy digital world, a handwritten card note is the most meaningful and intimate of all communications.
It not only moves you right then and there, it creates an emotion that can make you smile all over
again...long after the moment has passed.

Purchase personalized stationery.. truly makes the best gift. So many choices but here a few of my favorites..

Use your kids artwork ..Grandma will love to send these to her friends. Under $25.00 with code: ruvaholiday20 for 20% all season long.

Ships in 3 days.

For You #1: Holiday Card Fun & Love! | Send them some fine printed love!

2011-12-06T06:22:00.001-08:00

via neenahpaperblog.com

Thanks Neenah Paper for featuring our cards... we love 130# Classic Crest. It always prints smooth and sharp. Happy Holidays!

Black Coffee on Black Friday- RUVAcards- 20% off

2011-11-25T08:43:00.001-08:00

The Write Gift

I love a good deal like everyone else, but I am definitely a small business, on-line shopper. I spend more time looking on-line for unique personalized gifts with a cup of my favorite Starbucks blend and non-blurry eyes. ( I sleep on Black Friday getting ready for Cyber Monday!!)

So If you are just a tad bit like me, don't forget personalized stationery makes a wonderful gift and stucking stuffer. A special gift for teachers,etc. hard to buy for friends.

This is one of my favorites, you get 4 different designs ( with hello, a note from..), packaged in a kraft box all ready to go and give.

Ruvaholiday20--for 20% off

5 Benefits To Shopping On Small Business Saturday - RUVAcards

2011-11-23T06:29:00.001-08:00

For the second year in a row, American Express (NYSE: AXP) is sponsoring and pledging their support for Small Business Saturday scheduled for this Saturday November 26th. Right smack dab between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday is the time to come out and support local small businesses in your community and boost the economy in the process. Furthering the draw to bring visitors to Mom and Pop shops, American Express is offering $25 to AmEx card owners who shop at a local owned business, ABC Action News reports.

While the average American is expected to spend at least $704 on gifts and other miscellaneous items, American Express CEO Ken Chenault would prefer that the vast majority of that spending be put towards smaller merchants. “Small businesses create half of the jobs in the private sector. [They] have created 65 percent of the net new jobs over the last 17 years. And so, what small business is all about, is where the individual can help our economy because we need to create jobs. And if people support independently owned small businesses in their community, they can make a difference.” Chenault told CBS Evening News.

This year, AmEx plans on outdoing their strong effort from last year. Here’s a rundown in numbers of what Small Business Saturday looked like circa 2010 according to consumeraffairs.com:

1.5 million Facebook users 130 public and private organizations 41 elected officials joined in on the support base

100,000 small businesses that downloaded marketing materials

free Facebook advertising that day that featured 10,000 businesses signing up

200,000 consumers registered their AmEx cards to receive $25 statement credits for shopping

28 percent increase in sales from merchants compared to the Saturday after Thanksgiving in 2009

Granted not every small business retailer will open their doors at midnight or have a line wrapped around the block for door buster deals as stores like Toys”R”Us and Best Buy are infamous for. In fact, they might not have much hype attached to them at all. But there are 5 benefits to shopping locally and participating in Small Business Saturday on November 26.

1) Key Phrase: Local

You might be thinking “neighborhood” or “community” when you see the word local. I’m thinking that too, seeing as my own company is also participating in Small Business Saturday too, but local also means not having to travel all over the place. You don’t have to assign various family members to department stores, armed with credit cards, shopping lists, and cell phones to communicate.

Black Friday and even Cyber Monday are war zones when it comes to shopping and it’s all about first come, first serve. The only problem is that the majority of department stores and electronic warehouses are seldom all located within a speedy driving or walking distance from one another. Instead they’re stretched apart enough to make you travel to get to the next one, usually with few identical locations close by. Being stuck in traffic while shopping is one thing but being stuck at midnight in the freezing cold the day after you’ve stuffed yourself with a Thanksgiving feast is no way to relax during the holidays.

via forbes.com

Shop Small on-line or off-line. As a sit in my fancy office ( ok the dining room).....I think all small business owners will agree, we truly appreciate every order that walks or logs in. RUVAcards accepts American Express... so go get that $25.00 off.

helloalbums - free ipad photobook app

2011-11-09T08:39:00.001-08:00

via helloalbums.posterous.com

What a great way to share your favorite memories and never touch a computer. Three fabulous holiday photo books.

Don't underestimate the value of sending a printed holiday card.

2011-11-07T19:11:00.000-08:00

Sending business Christmas cards through the mail almost sounds old fashioned, right? Don’t be too quick to leap to that assumption. The time honored tradition of sending company holiday cards is a way of personally connecting with your customers, clients, business associates and employees that just cannot be underestimated. Designed by Jess Poisl, RUVAcards.com

Tips for sending business holiday cards

Send a holiday card that is modern, unique and printed on high quality paper. The card design sends a message about you or your company. We just finished the design above: it is printed on Pearl Metallic Paper with a Euro style envelope...elegant and simple. Add colored envelopes and have the return address printed on the back to add that extra special touch that doesn't cost much. Cards range from $1.29-2.29

Don’t send your cards late. If your Christmas card arrives after the holidays, you have just sent the wrong message to your customers. Be sure to send your cards early. Anytime after Thanksgiving is appropriate but be sure to have them in the mail no later than December 15th, especially if you are mailing out of state. Cards being sent internationally should be sent no later than the first week of December.

If you have missed getting out your business Christmas cards in time for the holiday, consider sending out a Happy New Year card instead.

Select a business holiday card that will appeal to the widest audience. Sending a religious themed card may offend some you might consider keeping your greeting message secular.

Keep your company contact information up to date by including your return address so that the post office will return the card if the address is no longer valid.

Holiday cards mailed to business associates should only be sent to their office unless you have met their family, in which case they can be sent to the home. As with any other business correspondence, these should maintain a level of formality.

Business holiday cards should only be signed by you, unless your spouse has actually met the recipient.

The holidays are a time for giving and letting people know you appreciate them. In my opinion, not a time for selling.

Free holiday photo card samples from RUVAcards

2011-10-27T16:19:00.001-07:00

Hello card lovers,

Send an email to design@ruvacards.com, subject: request free samples

with your mailing address --

and I will send you free samples in the US mail. Not sure why other companies charge so much for samples, but I'll drop a few in a standard envelope and it should arrives in 3-6 days.

We love to show off our super heavy paper, superb printing and fabulous looking cards created exclusively for RUVAcards. And let's be honest.. no one else is going to have the same card, we just don't have that kind of volume.

A secret coupon code might be in the package... you just never know..

The right paper makes a difference when ordering holiday cards.

2011-10-19T11:54:00.001-07:00

Confused about paper after browsing the internet for holiday cards?

Eco, heavy, smooth, gloss, linen, metallic.... oh, my!

Here are a few quick tips:

But first: We ship Free Samples

1. Almost all the paper on the market contains a percentage of recycled fiber, 30-50%.

2. Every brand of paper weighs and prints differently.

So, 100# Cover from Company A may actually be thicker than 120# Cover from Company B, depending on the finish, and is it softer or harder paper. Ok, don't get too hung up here, but in general 100# Cover is too light for me.

What is more important is the Point, that is the actual thickness of the paper regardless of the weight mentioned. The USPS uses points to make sure everyone meets the same criteria when mailing. It is the only way to judge papers from different paper companies.

For reference: direct mail postcards must be a 9 pt. thickness. Most are printed on 10 pt.

3. Request Samples and see for yourself.

Start early and request samples from different companies. If that is not an option, look to see if the website names the actual brand of paper or the point.

For example:

I use 130# Classic Crest by Neenah Paper, 16 point stock. I think this maybe the heaviest paper on the market and it very smooth. I tested numerous papers over the years and found this to the best.

Why?

Not only is it heavy, but is smooth ( not glossy) and the ink holds up fabulously. Dark colors are solid, photos are bright and smooth, and light areas are true to color.

A toothy or rough surface paper sucks up the ink and photos look dull. I don't like glossy or shiny surfaces, but I also don't like dull ones either...this paper rocks and it is made in the USA.

New Holiday Photo Cards and Christmas Cards by Fin and Roe

2011-10-17T12:06:00.001-07:00

I love these new flat cards by Lori at Fin and Roe.. simple, modern and the colors work wonderful with black and white or colored photographs. Printed on super heavy paper... 16 point Classic Crest.

Festive

Birch

Halloween and Events Photography Tips

10 Tips for taking great Halloween photographs

2011-09-29T06:34:00.001-07:00

Fall colors are so rich and warm in print. Add a few shots like to this your digital or print album.

Photo Tip Everyone Should know: move in closer

2011-09-16T10:44:00.001-07:00

move in closer

If your subject is smaller than a car, take a step or two closer before taking the picture and zoom in on your subject. Your goal is to fill the picture area with the subject you are photographing. Up close you can reveal telling details, like a sprinkle of freckles or an arched eyebrow.

But don't get too close or your pictures will be blurry. The closest focusing distance for most cameras is about three feet, or about one step away from your camera. If you get closer than the closest focusing distance of your camera (see your manual to be sure), your pictures will be blurry.

Source: Kodak Website

Free Halloween Invites and Spooktacular Stuff

2011-09-14T06:52:00.001-07:00

Going alittle crazy at Halloween has become a tradition in the US and every year I seem to be putting a smidge more effort into All Souls Day.
Enjoy this free fill-in the blank invite designed by Michelle Synder, NY just for you... add black envelopes.

MSnyder_Halloween_fil_in_invite.pdf Download this file

Halloween cut outs by A Little Wut:

Favor Boxes: by Katblu Studios

Business card update for Earl's Bike Shop

2011-08-28T18:37:00.000-07:00

Love these colors and the added saying " Ride More" that we changed for Earl's Bike Shop in Bellingham, WA...
He is my brother and a very avid bike rider and talented bike shop owner.

The folded business cards works great for adding more information, use as price tags, notes to customer.. the list goes on and on.

We love to design these, so give us a call or shoot an email and we are happy to get "write" to it.

Or choose from our selection of Funky Cards and add matching stationery.

Giveaway: WIN a Set of Personalized RUVAcards | The Gifting Experts

2011-08-23T16:44:00.001-07:00

via thegiftingexperts.com

New Halloween designs will be added this week. --- I better get going.

Floral Shoes

2011-08-09T19:05:00.001-07:00

I am just a tad too short to wear floral flats, but these might do it. What do you think? This might be my back to school treat.

Turn regular digital photos into 3D

2011-08-08T15:59:00.001-07:00

http://is.gd/ScNNcw

Photo Tips Every New Parent Should Know

2011-08-02T13:16:00.001-07:00

via techlicious.com

Good article for more than just taking baby shots... but they are so darn cute!

New 2011 Holiday Photo Cards: RUVAcards

2011-07-20T17:20:00.001-07:00

I thought it would be fun to post three new designs on the hottest day of the summer -- 100 degrees! Think Snow it might keep you cool.

Let me know what you think. Not only do I love the colors, using more than two photos, but the messages are just so dare cute and clever.

simplify your photos with Dropbox

2011-06-24T10:37:00.001-07:00

Everyone seems to have a photo organizational solution, but they all seemed like a hassle until I started using Dropbox all on my computers ( PC and Mac), phones and ipad2. Until the ICloud comes out this Fall, I think this the is best solution.

Add Dropbox to all your devices, ( takes about 10 minutes..maybe) and you have access to all your photos wherever you are. Having them on the ipad2 is super fun. I put old and new photos on the ipad and it just make my day to see the kids when they were little and then today. Fond Memories!

Dropbox

8 Trends That You’ll Love

2011-06-20T14:31:00.001-07:00

via decor8blog.com

I love the tolix chairs. ...

peace, love and fun stationery postcards

2011-06-17T18:36:00.001-07:00

I am so glad my teenage daughter likes these!! It passed the test. I know whoever gets one will smile.

Self-inking custom stamps- nice touch to add to RUVAcard

2011-06-02T08:40:00.001-07:00

via etsy.com

I have really struggled with a nice way to do return addresses. Labels just look so messy to me. ( that is why we don't offer them) During the holiday season we offer printed envelopes for a low cost, and it is a very nice convenience ( super busy time). ..But these are very cool and if you buy colored envelopes it is a great touch to any invitation, personalized notecard, or baby announcement.

free Father's Day printable card - add you own words.

2011-05-21T13:24:00.001-07:00

Send your Dad a Father's Day Card from the heart. You might not be able to tell him in person, but a few hand written sentences added to this card are a wonderful way to say how much you appreciate and love him. Of course we love it if you decide to order the printed card, as well. Prints on 130# Classic Crest heavy cover stock. We print, and mail to your Dad.

Father's Day Card

Fatherday_writeyourown.pdf Download this file

Beyond Business l Information Small business need to know

2011-05-06T08:04:00.001-07:00

via mibank.com

A little off my usual stuff today! For those running small businesses advice on the new 1099 ( will it happen or not) requirements, health care and a few more I received via email. Thought I would pass it on

The best Éaster baskets

2011-04-27T19:13:00.001-07:00

My mom made up the best baskets for the kids. First she used antique containers and an old box,then added fun stuff they like. Hailey got nice shampoo,swim stuff and cupcake decorating. Jack got a tortilla warmer.ok he eats alot of wraps,a book and some chocolate from wilmars with their name on them. My mom does the best gift, baking etc. Sent from my phone!

RUVAcards picked: 2011 Mother's Day Gift Guide from Cool Mom Picks: Win Stuff

2011-04-26T13:30:00.003-07:00

The 2011 Mother's Day Gift Guide

We are beyond giddy that our annual Mother's Day Gift Guide is here again! After all, it's one of our all-time favorite holidays. Of course every day is Mother's Day in our world, but if you want to make May 8 extra special, here are some ideas for all kinds of moms in all kinds of price ranges--most of which support small businesses, many run by moms themselves. And don't forget the hand-scribbled card from the kids of course. That's always the best of all.
We also suggest you click over to our truly amazing sponsors, who have some awesome ideas themselves (not to mention some great discount codes). Happy shopping!
EXTRA COOL! WIN IT! Help us spread the word about our Mother's Day Gift Guide! Just like this page on Facebook before Mother's Day (there's a handy little link at the very top here), and then email contests@coolmompicks.com with your Facebook URL or a screenshot of the post on your page. We'll automatically enter you to win a $200 spa gift card to the pampering haven of your choice! Open to US and Canada. You deserve it, mamas.

Mom Jewelry for the Mom Who's a Little Scared of Mom Jewelry

$
custom braille rings
$49 at studio amf

$$
personalized birthdate necklace
$110 from anna bee

$$$
custom silhouette diamond pendant
$350+ from vicente agor

studio amf - 15% off existing inventory (no custom orders) with code "CMPMothersDay-studioAMF"
anna bee - 20% off with code "COOLMOM"

For the Super-Hormonal First Time Mom (Go Ahead. Make Her Cry.)

$
custom embroidered handprint

$19.95 from andie marie

$$
charm from baby’s footprint

$125+ at formia design

read!
i love my mommy

$6.71+ from amazon

andie marie - 15% off with "COOLMOM2011"

formia design - mention "coolmompicks/mom" for free shipping upgrade

For the Amazingly Cool, Grandchild-Fawning Supergrandma

$
chocolate mother’s day postcards
$20 at rogue confections

$$
custom baby photo + poetry necklace
$595 from jeanine payer

read!
tell me a story grandparents' journal
$28 at uncommon goods

heart and stone jewelry - 10% off with CMP2010 until 7/31
-->

For the Mom From the Kids Who are Too Young to Write a Card Yet

$
wooden hearts ready for scribbling or painting
$7.50/set at romp

$$
magnets from kid's artwork

$36+ from ruva cards

$$$
photo session with the kids
photo credit: justin hackworth photography

romp - 15% off with "COOLMOM"

sponsors




For the Mama Who Loves Her Style, and Her Planet

$
organic lipsticks from peacekeeper cause-metics
$14 each at abe’s market

$$
twill + eco leather clutch

$89 from ellington

$$$
recycled silver + fairly mined diamond studs

$140 from andrea bonelli

ellington - free ground shipping with "COOLMOM"

For the Mother-in-law You Swore Not to Forget This Year. And Didn't.

$
kate spade boxed notes

$35 at kate's paperie

$$
napa farmhouse 1885 pampering basket
$85 at foodzie

read!
custom silhouette journal
$30 at le papier studio

le papier studio -15% off with code COOLMOM15

For the Mom Who Loves Her Real Live, Made of Paper, Old-Fashioned Books

$
custom bookplates

$14 at stella and hodge

$$
photo bookmark

$55 at tiffany

read!
subscription to gift lit book club
$270/year

giftlit - 10% off with the code COOLMOMS

sponsors




For the Wonderful Mom-esque, Mom-ish, or Mom-like Non-Mom in Your Life

$
love pillow
$38 from honey pie designs

$$
you are loved rosette ribbon
$45 at the small object

$$$
heart fob charm
$215 from fine art of family

For the Mom Who Doesn't Look Like Any Mom You Remember Growing Up

$
fringed metal earrings

on sale for $24 at charm and chain

$$
malene birger woven belt
$145 at huset-shop

read!
my mom, style icon

$12.89 at amazon

huset shop - 15% off with "COOLMOM11" on non-sale items; not valid in the furniture / electronics section.

For the Mom Who Just Wants Breakfast in Bed

$
bud vase with her favorite bloom and breakfast in bed
$40 from whitney smith

$$
petit dej’ breakfast tray and breakfast in bed
$92 at a+r

$$$
luxury cashmere blanket and breakfast in bed
$500 at saks

whitney smith pottery - 15% off with "COOLMOM"

For the Mom Who Needs Something to Hang on Her Wall Besides Pics of the Kids

$
lovely, love my family print

$25 from tuesday mourning

$$
custom family tree

$45 at le papier studio

$$$
custom artwork made from baby clothes or kids’ artwork
$varies from the great remember

le papier studio -15% off with code COOLMOM15

sponsors




For the Mom Who Lives to Have Everyone at the Table Together

$
modern cafe apron
$45 at magpie lovely

$$
le creuset french oven
$129 at sur la table

read!
the family dinner
$17.23 on amazon

magpie lovely - 15% off with "cmp15mom"

For the Mom Who Would Haaaaaaate a Sappy Gift

$
damn good mother tee

£20 at twisted twee

$$
breakfast cereal necklace
$49.99 at perpetual kid

read!
bossypants by tina fey

$13.97 at amazon

For the Mom Whose iPad is Her Other Baby

$
personalized iPad photo skin

$29.99 from skinit

$$
personalized canvas/leather ipad case
$158 at iomoi

$$$
smythson leather ipad case

$290 at net-a-porter

sponsors




For the Mom Who's Always Looking Out for All Other Moms

$
a meal for a homebound mom
$7 from meals on wheels

$$
safe birthing kit for mothers in a crisis zone
$24 from international rescue committee

$$$
reduce maternal mortality
$5+/month at white ribbon alliance for safe motherhood

For the Mom Who'd Uh... Like to be a Mom Again Sometime Soon

$
vkini tulip “bouquet” with the kids off to Grandma’s for the night
$58 at hanky panky

$$
weekend at a b+b
photo credit: joyeverafter

read!
the mominatrix guide to sex for naughty moms
$10.32 at amazon

All picks are entirely determined by our editorial staff;
there has been no compensation in exchange for reviews.
Cool Mom Picks is an Amazon affiliate.

via coolmompicks.com

Always a treat to be featured by coolmompicks.com. the coolest blog. They featured the kids artwork magnets, ( they are a fabulous gift).

RUVAcards picked: 2011 Mother's Day Gift Guide from Cool Mom Picks: Win Stuff

2011-04-26T13:30:00.001-07:00

The 2011 Mother's Day Gift Guide

We are beyond giddy that our annual Mother's Day Gift Guide is here again! After all, it's one of our all-time favorite holidays. Of course every day is Mother's Day in our world, but if you want to make May 8 extra special, here are some ideas for all kinds of moms in all kinds of price ranges--most of which support small businesses, many run by moms themselves. And don't forget the hand-scribbled card from the kids of course. That's always the best of all.
We also suggest you click over to our truly amazing sponsors, who have some awesome ideas themselves (not to mention some great discount codes). Happy shopping!
EXTRA COOL! WIN IT! Help us spread the word about our Mother's Day Gift Guide! Just like this page on Facebook before Mother's Day (there's a handy little link at the very top here), and then email contests@coolmompicks.com with your Facebook URL or a screenshot of the post on your page. We'll automatically enter you to win a $200 spa gift card to the pampering haven of your choice! Open to US and Canada. You deserve it, mamas.

Mom Jewelry for the Mom Who's a Little Scared of Mom Jewelry

$
custom braille rings
$49 at studio amf

$$
personalized birthdate necklace
$110 from anna bee

$$$
custom silhouette diamond pendant
$350+ from vicente agor

studio amf - 15% off existing inventory (no custom orders) with code "CMPMothersDay-studioAMF"
anna bee - 20% off with code "COOLMOM"

For the Super-Hormonal First Time Mom (Go Ahead. Make Her Cry.)

$
custom embroidered handprint

$19.95 from andie marie

$$
charm from baby’s footprint

$125+ at formia design

read!
i love my mommy

$6.71+ from amazon

andie marie - 15% off with "COOLMOM2011"

formia design - mention "coolmompicks/mom" for free shipping upgrade

For the Amazingly Cool, Grandchild-Fawning Supergrandma

$
chocolate mother’s day postcards
$20 at rogue confections

$$
custom baby photo + poetry necklace
$595 from jeanine payer

read!
tell me a story grandparents' journal
$28 at uncommon goods

heart and stone jewelry - 10% off with CMP2010 until 7/31
-->

For the Mom From the Kids Who are Too Young to Write a Card Yet

$
wooden hearts ready for scribbling or painting
$7.50/set at romp

$$
magnets from kid's artwork

$36+ from ruva cards

$$$
photo session with the kids
photo credit: justin hackworth photography

romp - 15% off with "COOLMOM"

sponsors




For the Mama Who Loves Her Style, and Her Planet

$
organic lipsticks from peacekeeper cause-metics
$14 each at abe’s market

$$
twill + eco leather clutch

$89 from ellington

$$$
recycled silver + fairly mined diamond studs

$140 from andrea bonelli

ellington - free ground shipping with "COOLMOM"

For the Mother-in-law You Swore Not to Forget This Year. And Didn't.

$
kate spade boxed notes

$35 at kate's paperie

$$
napa farmhouse 1885 pampering basket
$85 at foodzie

read!
custom silhouette journal
$30 at le papier studio

le papier studio -15% off with code COOLMOM15

For the Mom Who Loves Her Real Live, Made of Paper, Old-Fashioned Books

$
custom bookplates

$14 at stella and hodge

$$
photo bookmark

$55 at tiffany

read!
subscription to gift lit book club
$270/year

giftlit - 10% off with the code COOLMOMS

sponsors




For the Wonderful Mom-esque, Mom-ish, or Mom-like Non-Mom in Your Life

$
love pillow
$38 from honey pie designs

$$
you are loved rosette ribbon
$45 at the small object

$$$
heart fob charm
$215 from fine art of family

For the Mom Who Doesn't Look Like Any Mom You Remember Growing Up

$
fringed metal earrings

on sale for $24 at charm and chain

$$
malene birger woven belt
$145 at huset-shop

read!
my mom, style icon

$12.89 at amazon

huset shop - 15% off with "COOLMOM11" on non-sale items; not valid in the furniture / electronics section.

For the Mom Who Just Wants Breakfast in Bed

$
bud vase with her favorite bloom and breakfast in bed
$40 from whitney smith

$$
petit dej’ breakfast tray and breakfast in bed
$92 at a+r

$$$
luxury cashmere blanket and breakfast in bed
$500 at saks

whitney smith pottery - 15% off with "COOLMOM"

For the Mom Who Needs Something to Hang on Her Wall Besides Pics of the Kids

$
lovely, love my family print

$25 from tuesday mourning

$$
custom family tree

$45 at le papier studio

$$$
custom artwork made from baby clothes or kids’ artwork
$varies from the great remember

le papier studio -15% off with code COOLMOM15

sponsors




For the Mom Who Lives to Have Everyone at the Table Together

$
modern cafe apron
$45 at magpie lovely

$$
le creuset french oven
$129 at sur la table

read!
the family dinner
$17.23 on amazon

magpie lovely - 15% off with "cmp15mom"

For the Mom Who Would Haaaaaaate a Sappy Gift

$
damn good mother tee

£20 at twisted twee

$$
breakfast cereal necklace
$49.99 at perpetual kid

read!
bossypants by tina fey

$13.97 at amazon

For the Mom Whose iPad is Her Other Baby

$
personalized iPad photo skin

$29.99 from skinit

$$
personalized canvas/leather ipad case
$158 at iomoi

$$$
smythson leather ipad case

$290 at net-a-porter

sponsors




For the Mom Who's Always Looking Out for All Other Moms

$
a meal for a homebound mom
$7 from meals on wheels

$$
safe birthing kit for mothers in a crisis zone
$24 from international rescue committee

$$$
reduce maternal mortality
$5+/month at white ribbon alliance for safe motherhood

For the Mom Who'd Uh... Like to be a Mom Again Sometime Soon

$
vkini tulip “bouquet” with the kids off to Grandma’s for the night
$58 at hanky panky

$$
weekend at a b+b
photo credit: joyeverafter

read!
the mominatrix guide to sex for naughty moms
$10.32 at amazon

All picks are entirely determined by our editorial staff;
there has been no compensation in exchange for reviews.
Cool Mom Picks is an Amazon affiliate.

via coolmompicks.com

Always a treat to be featured by coolmompicks.com. the coolest blog. They featured the kids artwork magnets, ( they are a fabulous gift).

http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/04/18/iphone-4-becoming-most-popular-camer...

Most popular camera iphone l what do you use?

2011-04-18T10:39:00.001-07:00

How Handwriting Boosts the Brain - RUVAcards

2011-04-17T09:53:00.001-07:00

By GWENDOLYN BOUNDS
Ask preschooler Zane Pike to write his name or the alphabet, then watch this 4-year-old's stubborn side kick in. He spurns practice at school and tosses aside workbooks at home. But Angie Pike, Zane's mom, persists, believing that handwriting is a building block to learning.

Wendy Bounds discusses the fading art of handwriting, pointing out that new research shows it can benefit children's motor skills and their ability to compose ideas and achieve goals throughout life.

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Gwendolyn Bounds reports on what your handwriting says about your brain and everything else.

She's right. Using advanced tools such as magnetic resonance imaging, researchers are finding that writing by hand is more than just a way to communicate. The practice helps with learning letters and shapes, can improve idea composition and expression, and may aid fine motor-skill development.

It's not just children who benefit. Adults studying new symbols, such as Chinese characters, might enhance recognition by writing the characters by hand, researchers say. Some physicians say handwriting could be a good cognitive exercise for baby boomers working to keep their minds sharp as they age.

Studies suggest there's real value in learning and maintaining this ancient skill, even as we increasingly communicate electronically via keyboards big and small. Indeed, technology often gets blamed for handwriting's demise. But in an interesting twist, new software for touch-screen devices, such as the iPad, is starting to reinvigorate the practice.

View Full Image
Angie Pike
Four-year-old Zane Pike used to toss aside his handwriting books. Now, the Cabot, Ark., preschooler is learning to write his letters using a smartphone application.

Most schools still include conventional handwriting instruction in their primary-grade curriculum, but today that amounts to just over an hour a week, according to Zaner-Bloser Inc., one of the nation's largest handwriting-curriculum publishers. Even at institutions that make it a strong priority, such as the private Brearley School in New York City, "some parents say, 'I can't believe you are wasting a minute on this,'" says Linda Boldt, the school's head of learning skills.

Recent research illustrates how writing by hand engages the brain in learning. During one study at Indiana University published this year, researchers invited children to man a "spaceship," actually an MRI machine using a specialized scan called "functional" MRI that spots neural activity in the brain. The kids were shown letters before and after receiving different letter-learning instruction. In children who had practiced printing by hand, the neural activity was far more enhanced and "adult-like" than in those who had simply looked at letters.

"It seems there is something really important about manually manipulating and drawing out two-dimensional things we see all the time," says Karin Harman James, assistant professor of psychology and neuroscience at Indiana University who led the study.

More

The Juggle: In Digital Age, Does Handwriting Still Matter?

Adults may benefit similarly when learning a new graphically different language, such as Mandarin, or symbol systems for mathematics, music and chemistry, Dr. James says. For instance, in a 2008 study in the Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, adults were asked to distinguish between new characters and a mirror image of them after producing the characters using pen-and-paper writing and a computer keyboard. The result: For those writing by hand, there was stronger and longer-lasting recognition of the characters' proper orientation, suggesting that the specific movements memorized when learning how to write aided the visual identification of graphic shapes.

Other research highlights the hand's unique relationship with the brain when it comes to composing thoughts and ideas. Virginia Berninger, a professor of educational psychology at the University of Washington, says handwriting differs from typing because it requires executing sequential strokes to form a letter, whereas keyboarding involves selecting a whole letter by touching a key.

She says pictures of the brain have illustrated that sequential finger movements activated massive regions involved in thinking, language and working memory—the system for temporarily storing and managing information.

And one recent study of hers demonstrated that in grades two, four and six, children wrote more words, faster, and expressed more ideas when writing essays by hand versus with a keyboard.

View Full Image
AJ Mast for the Wall Street Journal
For research at Indiana University, children undergo specialized MRI brain scans that spot neurological activity.

Even in the digital age, people remain enthralled by handwriting for myriad reasons—the intimacy implied by a loved one's script, or what the slant and shape of letters might reveal about personality. During actress Lindsay Lohan's probation violation court appearance this summer, a swarm of handwriting experts proffered analysis of her blocky courtroom scribbling. "Projecting a false image" and "crossing boundaries," concluded two on celebrity news and entertainment site hollywoodlife.com. Beyond identifying personality traits through handwriting, called graphology, some doctors treating neurological disorders say handwriting can be an early diagnostic tool.

"Some patients bring in journals from the years, and you can see dramatic change from when they were 55 and doing fine and now at 70," says P. Murali Doraiswamy, a neuroscientist at Duke University. "As more people lose writing skills and migrate to the computer, retraining people in handwriting skills could be a useful cognitive exercise."

In high schools, where laptops are increasingly used, handwriting still matters. In the essay section of SAT college-entrance exams, scorers unable to read a student's writing can assign that portion an "illegible" score of 0.

Even legible handwriting that's messy can have its own ramifications, says Steve Graham, professor of education at Vanderbilt University. He cites several studies indicating that good handwriting can take a generic classroom test score from the 50th percentile to the 84th percentile, while bad penmanship could tank it to the 16th. "There is a reader effect that is insidious," Dr. Graham says. "People judge the quality of your ideas based on your handwriting."

Handwriting-curriculum creators say they're seeing renewed interest among parents looking to hone older children's skills—or even their own penmanship. Nan Barchowsky, who developed the Barchowsky Fluent Handwriting method to ease transition from print-script to joined cursive letters, says she's sold more than 1,500 copies of "Fix It … Write" in the past year.

Some high-tech allies also are giving the practice an unexpected boost through hand-held gadgets like smartphones and tablets. Dan Feather, a graphic designer and computer consultant in Nashville, Tenn., says he's "never adapted well to the keypads on little devices." Instead, he uses a $3.99 application called "WritePad" on his iPhone. It accepts handwriting input with a finger or stylus, then converts it to text for email, documents or Twitter updates.

And apps are helping Zane Pike—the 4-year-old who refused to practice his letters. The Cabot, Ark., boy won't put down his mom's iPhone, where she's downloaded a $1.99 app called "abc PocketPhonics." The program instructs Zane to draw letters with his finger or a stylus; correct movements earn him cheering pencils.

Indiana University
In children who had practiced writing by hand, the scans showed heightened brain activity in a key area, circled on the image at right, indicating learning took place.

"He thinks it's a game," says Angie Pike.

Similarly, kindergartners at Harford Day School in Bel Air, Md., are taught to write on paper but recently also began tracing letter shapes on the screen of an iPad using a handwriting app.

"Children will be using technology unlike I did, and it's important for teachers to be familiar with it," says Kay Crocker, the school's lead kindergarten teacher. Regardless of the input method, she says, "You still need to be able to write, and someone needs to be able to read it."

Write to Gwendolyn Bounds at wendy.bounds@wsj.com

via online.wsj.com

vintage designs-

2011-04-16T10:58:00.001-07:00

via printpattern.blogspot.com

I love the branching out ( black, red and gold) fabric. Follow the link to view texture samples from the design center. Have fun admiring the past.

Pop Color Custom Stationery - Ruvacards

2011-04-05T19:50:00.001-07:00

Don't you just love these colors! I added matching French Pop Tone Envelopes because they are so cool. The hot new Pantone color this year is really close to the magenta, so the purple/pink is right on target.

Perfect gift for friends, bridesmaids, or yourself. I am currently using the initial card, ( they make great notes for school), but I need some of these to brighten my day. What is your favorite color?

Listen Up Dad's: Plan a Super Mom Day for Mother's Day

2011-04-02T18:58:00.000-07:00

Create a super day for mom that she will never forget.

This is geared towards families with a few smaller children, but I bet the big ones have a blast as well.

Listen up Dad's:

Theme: Super

1. Kids dress up in their favorite Super Hero Costume. We know they know where they are.

2. Make Hero Sandwiches: ( this one sounded really good

and I trust Food Network)

Super Hero Sandwich from Food Network

3. Watch the Incredibles ( fun moving for all ages)

4. Give mom the SuperMom Gift: from Ruvacards.com. Kids draw on the inside of the card and give it their own personal touch. Watch the video to learn more about planning this fun fun day for mom and what comes in this creative and special super mom supply kit for mom.

5. The kids and dad are going to have a blast planning this day.

Orange You Glad Bowl by rubbishremade on etsy.com

2011-03-17T12:41:00.001-07:00

via etsy.com

I love the colors of this bowl by Jess: rubbishremade's shop on etsy: I can see this in so many places. This bowl was handmade with a magazine headed for the bin. The bowl is finished with 3 coats of a clear polycrylic protecting it from moisture. Be sure not to submerge in water or run through the dishwasher - a damp cloth to clean or dust it off will do.

The bowl measures approximately 6.5" across the top and stands about 4.5" tall.

Check her out on Etsy-very proud to have her as one of our RUVAcards.com designers.

best of green l St. Patricks Day

2011-03-17T12:34:00.001-07:00

via designspongeonline.com

Since my last name is Coughlin and my husband is Sean Patrick I feel obligated to blog something today in honor St. Patty. Although I found lots of great photos of green beer,this just seemed more me today.Enjoy and thanks design sponge

3 Great iPhone Camera Apps | now create

2011-03-16T12:47:00.001-07:00

via iheartfaces.com

This is a wonderful photography blog. I prefer to use my phone...looking forward to giving these apps a try. The next shot might make it to your holiday card....capture the unexpected moments.

the coolest umbrellas

2011-03-16T12:30:00.001-07:00

via printpattern.blogspot.com

Not sure these are availabe in the US, although I know Target has carried ORLA KIELY. So much fun.....fresh and brighten a rainy spring day.

creative design blog: design sponge

2011-03-07T14:51:00.001-08:00

via designspongeonline.com

I love the sneak peek section of design sponge. Take a peek and enjoy-

wishing tree for baby shower

2011-03-05T09:22:00.001-08:00

via hellohanna.com

This is such a great idea! Love this a for baby shower-what a great way to include everyone.

put some spring in your day

2011-03-02T13:06:00.001-08:00

via printpattern.blogspot.com

I fell in love with these gift wrap designs. I think they should be framed- or at least give something really bright and springy!

Birthday cards by jess poisl

2011-02-19T16:57:00.001-08:00

These are so cool, way to Jess look. Simple,fun and great quotes.

Guitar notecards

2011-02-04T09:23:00.001-08:00

Finally some new custom notecards for Jack along with a "cool" from Jack. I will put up soon for all those Eric Clapton fans. Thanks for visiting. All posted from my phone (ok that is just cool as well)

Writing Thank You Notes makes everyone feel better.

2011-02-03T11:20:00.001-08:00

I really loved the article. I have absolutely no excuse.

(CBS) In the age of e-mail, the handwritten thank you note is becoming a lost art.

Steve Hartman gets a lesson from a recognized expert -- at least, you'll recognize him -- in "Assignment America".

Twis now a month after Christmas and all through my house
Not a note has been written, does that make me a louse?
Must I really send thanks for all the candles and cheeses
Or that book from my in-laws about tracking animal feces?

(Scroll down to watch a video of this report)

Yes, at least according to my 1950 edition of Emily Post. But today, most of us don't live stationery lives. Thanks to our new paperless, manner-less society, the thank you note has been slowly going the way of the curtsy, and I say that's a good thing.

This is an issue "60 Minutes" Correspondent Byron Pitts and I have always been at odds over. He sends out thank you notes to the people he interviews, camera crews, you name it.

"There's something nice about the hand-written word, that people can feel it, can touch it, you know?" Pitts asked.

It's Boy Scouts like Pitts who make the rest of us look bad, but this guy says writing thank yous can actually make you feel good, really good.

"I did feel it changed my life," Los Angeles attorney John Kralik said.

It all started three years ago, Kralik said. His life was really going down the tubes, personally and professionally, when one day, while walking, he heard an inner voice telling him to start writing thank you notes.

"I wasn't that grateful of a person," said Kralik. "I wasn't noticing the good things that happened to me each day. I wasn't noticing the good people I was encountering every day."

People like his daughter's piano teacher or the woman who cuts his hair, even the woman at Starbucks, who he thanked just for making the effort to remember his name.

"'In a way that makes me feel like a person and not a number; thank you, John,'" the barista read from Kralik's note. "It just made me realize that what I do does count."

In total, John wrote 365 notes that year and now has written a book about how it supposedly changed his fortune.

"When you appreciate something, it comes again," said Kralik. "If I was thankful for clients paying their bills, they seemed to pay faster. If I was thankful for cases, they seemed to come more."

That made sense. So I decided to give it a try and asked Pitts for help. I mean, where do you even start?

"Maybe, 'I hope this note finds you well,'" Pitts said.

Turns out, you open with a broad greeting and close with a broad greeting. I did mail it, and it went over well.

"Steve, I got your note," my father-in-law said in a voicemail. "That was nice."

Although I should probably get my own stationery.

"I was a little curious because there was an ending Brian, Byron Pitts," my father-in-law said. "But, anyway, thanks."

For the record, apparently I'm not the only one at CBS who's been lax with the thank yous.

The New York Post recently published celebrity New Year's resolutions, and guess who said she needed to write more thank you notes?

"CBS Evening News" Anchor Katie Couric

CBS News Correspondent Steve Hartman Learns the Importance of Putting Pen on Paper and Expressing Gratitude for Everyday Acts

How to Write the Perfect Note

2011-02-02T12:15:00.001-08:00

Birthday Greetings

An Example

Dear Mom:

I want to be the first to wish you a very happy birthday…so I’m sending this card a little early. I’m enclosing a gift card to the nursery―I know you’ve been planning your garden layout and hopefully this will come in handy. I’m really looking forward to our visit in June―it’ll be great to spend some time with you and Dad! Know that I’m thinking of you on your special day―we’ll talk in the evening after your birthday party! I love you! Angela

Why It Works

Sending a note ahead of time is a nice change from the more common late card. The writer also makes it clear that she didn’t misremember the day―very important.

The writer shows how well she knows her mother and the thought she has put into the gift. And she demonstrates that she listens rather than tunes out, which is the best gift a parent can receive.

By saying she’s anticipating the visit, the sender is expressing how much her mom means to her.

How To Write One

Compliment the recipient’s best qualities. Take advantage of the opportunity to say why loved ones are special: “I’m so lucky to have such a caring, supportive, funny friend” or “I’m so proud of you for being such a compassionate person.”

Turn a birthday card into a thank-you note. Tell someone what a difference he or she makes to your life.

Focus on the year ahead and what you hope it brings: joy, success, a new job, celebrations, possibilities. This goes a long way toward personalizing a card.

Don’t assume people are thrilled about a birthday. Some folks aren’t. And if age is an issue, don’t point out the number in the card. Emphasize the person, not the milestone.

Next: Celebratory Notes

via realsimple.com

A few years ago REAL SIMPLE did a long section on, How to Write the Perfect Note. We all need a little help and I refer to that article when I get stuck. This is fabulous on-line version, thanks REAL SIMPLE

Featured in Stationery Trends Two issues in a Row

2011-01-28T10:37:00.001-08:00

We always thought our invitation designed after a train ticket was cool, but super happy it got selected. Way to go Michelle

Valentine Gumball Necklaces

2011-01-27T08:52:00.001-08:00

via google.com

Such a cute cute great idea!

Free Printable Valentine's Day Cards - Forest Friends.

2011-01-25T12:50:00.001-08:00

I am always behind schedule when it comes to Valentine's Day cards. I am usually designing something at the last mintue, digging through my scraps of ribbons, treat bags to throw something together.- Or running out the store ( yes I do that)

Kids Valentine's Day DIY--

I just love these forest friends designed by Jess and here it FREE: Just download the PDF: grab some card stock. We included 4 different designs for fun.

Punch the card: string a red ribbon --done ( and very modern and stylish).

Order this box from etsy: so cute and you print it yourself: ( only $3.50)

Entire project shouldn't cost more than $5.00 -$10.00

Chance to win FREE personalized Valentine's Day cards: printed on 130# Classic Crest:

Just like us on Facebook by Feb 1 set.

Download now or preview on posterous

ForestFriendsValentinesDOWNLOAD[1].pdf (104 KB)

Stationery and holiday printed on Classic Crest Digital

2011-01-15T13:28:00.001-08:00

Just a few stationery and holiday cards printed on Neenah Paper 130# classic crest digital. Really loved the heavy cranberry colors on the stationery, printed so smooth and clear. First post using posterous app for the android, so far so good.

Free Kids Valentine's Day Cards -- RUVAcards

2011-01-13T08:06:00.001-08:00

Send me a Tweet or Facebook Like and you are entered. Starting today and ending Feb. 1st.
Giving A Way Two Free Valentine Day Personalized Cards. 25 Cards per order.
Happy Entering!

Thankful for a Year filled with Blessing: Great New Year's Card

2010-12-23T09:20:00.001-08:00

I haven't blogged in awhile! --oops! No excuses. I have gotten emails and phone calls from people who received a RUVAcard and loved them. Thanks for the email, it keeps me going. Anyway a few have asked what I would recommend for New Year's Cards. Many of our cards incorporate events from your whole year.. Here is one of my favorites. We can always remove any greeting specifically for Christmas and add Only New Year Greetings, as well. ( we are pretty flexible)
Happy New Year!
Cindy

Christmas Card Mailing Schedule: Have you received many?

2010-12-10T06:32:00.001-08:00

We have been busy packing and shipping so I apologize for not posting as often.

Have you received a lot of holiday cards yet? I have received maybe a handful and usually from the same friends that always get them out earlier than most. Ok, you know who you are.

We receive most of our cards between the 20th and 24th and then during the holidays as well. I love cards that work well for the Holidays and

the New Year- technically the Christmas season doesn't end Dec. 25th.--it goes into the first week of January.

According to the miss manners websites, New Year's Cards received by mid January are just fine. ( Just not into February, that is too close to Valentine's Day)

So don't panic!--really. Send something that reflects your personality, include a picture that just took at the holiday get together this week, and add 2010 Memories and best wishes for 2011.

Send by December 20th if you want it to get there by the December 25th. It is nice this year,we have a full week before the big day. I would order this week,though! Code ivillage15 for 15%.

Holiday Cards

Martha Stewart Holiday Craft Sale - Martha Stewart Crafts

2010-12-03T10:56:00.001-08:00

via marthastewart.com

RUVAcards.com freelance designer Michelle Snyder, is a vendor at the show. See the cards close up and personal. She also has a new line of Matchbook Folder holders: so so cute I just got a sample.

15% off extended from RUVAcards: ruva15:

2010-12-03T07:06:00.001-08:00

Good morning,

I extended the discount because the coupon discount area in the shopping cart was not functioning properly. Thanks to all of you who ordered and noted in the comment section. We are applying those discounts manually.

Thank again for ordering, peaking or clicking on RUVAcards.com and helping to support a small business.

Cindy Coughlin

cindy@ruvacards.com

920-428-2138

Under $30 holiday gifts: Stationery is the perfect answer

2010-11-30T08:57:00.001-08:00

I think personalized stationery is truly one gift that many never buy for themselves, but really love. Of course I usually have a pretty good selection at home, ( I better), but even before I started the company writing a quick note or thank you brought me pleasure. I was grateful for big and small gestures someone did for me and pulling out a bright flowered stationery in Spring or initials on a long flat card to write the note is just fun for me. Hope it is for you.

Add new Sharpie pen colors and it all coordinates famously.

Code good today til midnight: ruva15 for 15% off site wide.

Have your child draw a picture and use if for personalized stationery for Grandma, Aunt, etc. How much fun is that for Grandma to send out a thank you note with her grandson's drawing.

Almost forgot: FREE GIFT WRAPPING: I got these great gift boxes ,matching ribbons and a tag to coordinate . I will shoot a picture today so you can see it. Also we ship wherever you want.

Kid Artwork Stationery

Initial Stationery: variety of colors and printed on 130# Luxe Stationery Stock by Neenah Paper. We send two different patterns and you can personalize the messag or use ours- I write big so this note card works well for me, plus the back is empty: so write on.!

Blessing Photo Holiday Card

Blessings Holiday Photo Card: 15% off site wide

2010-11-28T20:31:00.001-08:00

Sale still on til Tuesday! Code: Ruva15.

We got asked quite a bit if we could make our Scripture Holiday Book into a card. So we did.

Pick between three different colors, verses, and photo layouts. I think we got it all. Let us know though, we love to hear from you.

Thanks!

Ruvacards: Holiday Photo Cards 15% off and Small Business Saturday

2010-11-22T18:40:00.001-08:00

Use code ruva15 to get 15%off on Cyber Monday plus an additional day. --sale ends 11/30. Just incase you are not quite ready or spent all Thanksgiving weekend cleaning up after relatives and friends. ( well worth it--but just a tad behind)

Use your American Express on Saturday, Nov. 27th. $1.00 goes to girls.org and you get $25.00 off your bill. Small business Saturday.

Can't leave with adding a photo and wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving . We truly "Give Thanks" for every order we receive and the kind words customers email us.

Simple Abundance

Warm regards,

Cindy Coughlin

5 Quick Tips on Sending the Best Holiday Card for Business

2010-11-22T11:20:00.001-08:00

I have spent quite a few years printing, designing, and working with ad agencies developing unique and cost effective holiday cards.

1. Send something unique, modern and fresh. Please Please don't pick one from an office supply store or catalog. I used to receive a ton of those and although I did appreciate the gesture I didn't put it out for all to see. Suggestion: flat cards are very reasonable, can be personalized with company name and logo. This is especially important if you changed or rebranded your image.

2. Get the right people to sign. Pass it around the office one day and make sure the right people sign it. Large corporations this is not possible, but scanned in signatures look very realistic.

3. Holiday Message: Business holday cards are sent to wish the recipients a joyous and happy holiday. It is not the time to promote, sell or mention anything else.

4. Send out no later than Dec.10th. I think this is pretty obvious, to make sure they get it. Most companies, including RUVAcards offer special services for designing, printing, and mailing. The whole process from start to finish only takes 5 days-7 days.

5. Who should receive your holiday card: Customers, clients, vendors. Do not send to prospects ( unless you have been working on a big project and the PO just hasn't arrived).

Tips for Taking Great Shots

Christmas Photo Ideas

2010-11-21T12:55:00.001-08:00

This are great tips from Zoom Photography! Photo of our kids by Sarah Celine Photography--

Use code ruva15 for 15% off until November 24th.

Holiday Shopping: Tips for buying from small on-line and local retailers

2010-11-20T10:22:00.001-08:00

American Express is supporting small business on November 27th with Shop Small Business. I think this is great idea. Not only do I own RUVAcards.com, my brother owns a great bike shop in Bellingham, WA, Earls Bike Shop. My husband has his own business as well as my sister-in-law. Small business definitely runs in the family!

Do you support small retailers on-line and local small brick and mortar stores?

Since my season is holiday as well, going to the mall is not really my idea of fun shopping. I look forward to visiting fun, unique local shops this year and shopping smaller on-line indie stores. Here is how I do it. How are you going to shop this year?

Finding small on-line retailers: Easier than ever

I backward search... start at the last page of your google search ( Holiday Gift Guides) or a least page 6 -10 and go forward. Why, because small on-line retailers like myself can't afford to get up front in google. Visit mom-owned blogs that find and support small on-line retailers. Coolmompicks.com is one of my favorite, they have picked RUVAcards two years in a row and continually support small shops. I have a coupon up there as well, so check it out!

Jasmere.com offers daily discounts from small web-retailers, great discounts and very cool products. I have purchased quite a few things there.

See what facebook retailers your friends are following, especially the girl friends who come to the party with the best vintage t-shirt!

Brick and Mortar Shops local shops:

I hate the crowds at the mall, so driving to my favorite gift store, clothing boutique shop or candy shop is just my thing. It might take a few more stops, but finding an unique gift is really wonderful. Follow your small shops on facebook, and check out what they have before you get there. Small shops don't always get their site updated as often, so facebook is the way to go. Call them or facebook chat! Seriously, I bet they would love to chat ( during the week might be better). I know I do!

Just a few of my thoughts-- what are your tricks this season?

Of course can't leave without showing our most popular card this year.

Kids Artwork Card

Cute Way To Display Christmas Cards

2010-11-18T12:12:00.001-08:00

via realsimple.com

I have always liked the clothespin idea for kids artwork, but I think it looks pretty cool this way as well. I do love looking at the ones when they were so little of close friends and family.

RUVAcards drawing today on Facebook: holiday photo cards

2010-11-16T08:41:00.001-08:00

Like us/Fan Us today on Facebook and enter a chance to win $100 Gift Card. Isnt' this a great card designed by Jess Poisl. Posting new business Christmas cards today-might be a great way to spend the $100.00.

Christmas Photo Cards that really Pop

2010-11-15T08:17:00.001-08:00

I know I have talked about how fun these cards on-- creating your own look. It is just plain fun. We just sent a card off and got a fabulous e-mail back as soon as the box was opened. Here a few more examples:

Hi Cindy,

We got the cards in yesterday. They are beautiful!

RUVA Cards Showcases New Styles | In This Issue | Greetings etc.: The Resource for Greetings Cards, Stationery, and Party Goods

2010-11-10T11:01:00.001-08:00

via greetingsmagazine.com

Chocolate Dipped Cranberry Cookies - Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc. - Recipe

2010-11-03T14:46:00.001-07:00

via oceanspray.com

I used to make this cookie all the time for a cookie party. I was looking for a cranberry bread recipe and ran across it--Someone gave it to me from an Ocean Spray brochure a long time ago, but it so good and so easy. Enjoy! Plus they look great on a plate. Use butter flavored crisco ( tastes better)

Photo booth pictures- never get old.

2010-11-02T13:10:00.001-07:00

via ohjoy.blogs.com

Completey agree, never get old! I think I shoud redo the colors all our photo booth card-- something more fun!

15% off holiday photo cards : code holiday15

2010-10-28T20:29:00.001-07:00

Enjoy 15% off site wide until November. 7th. We are not able to do this very often -maybe once or twice a year so it might be good idea to stock up on stationery, stocking stuffers, teacher gifts, ( you get the idea). We don't have the buying power as the big guys out there, so we pay more for services, but we want to offer a few sales a year ( just because we should).

Check out our new holiday this year--we have added more cards for 2010 that are modern, fresh, beautiful and just plain knock your socks off.

Happy Shopping. !

Time Flies Holiday Photo Card-enter your sentiments

2010-10-28T20:04:00.001-07:00

Michelle redesigned one of our most popular cards this year. This card works great as a New Year's card as well. If you have a special occasion in December or taking a vacation--don't worry send this card thru Jan. 2011. Reconnect with friends and family in a special way this year.

I promise this card will be a big hit.

Time Flies

Holiday Greeting from Chicago- Holiday photo cards

2010-10-22T12:15:00.001-07:00

Love this new design by Jess just for residents of the Windy City. The landscape,modern black and white--it is really cool. We can help convert your photo to black and white-- Add a Hot Red Envelope adding to the pop factor when you open it up.

"Tweet This" Holiday Photo Card

2010-10-18T11:16:00.001-07:00

Funny how it so much easier to write in tweet talk, bullets, highlights of the year. So why not celebrate 2010 with the fun,modern card by kim at zoom in design. Great for a New Year's Card as well. If you have a special event this holiday season and want to include it ... birth details, new job, vacation, just not motivated and think New Year's cards are great. We can change it to Happy New Year at the top!

We provide 2 PDF's proof before we print. Printed on high quality 130# Classic Crest Cover By Neenah Paper, FSC certified and Green Power Supplier.

Christmas Cards that are worth it!-featured in Stationery Trends

2010-10-12T11:17:00.001-07:00

This might be the only time you touch base with certain friends and family--so do it right and send something that is different this year. Our vellum card was featured in Stationery Trends this Fall issue ( next to some big big retailers) so we are bragging just a little. Vellum Card featured in Stationery Trends.

Check out the video on other unique, fresh and modern cards. ( ok I am starting to look like a mad scientist, by the time I finished all these) --but the cards are still cool.

thanks for visiting,

cindy

Download now or watch on posterous

Ruvacards_Unique_Holiday_Cards_2010.mp4 (31733 KB)

Layered Christmas and Holiday Photo Cards.

Shimmery Christmas Photo Cards by Jilly Jack Designs

2010-09-30T06:49:00.001-07:00

I have always been nuts about metallic stock. The shine and glitter screams holiday to me. I love the metallic brown against the stark white and teal--also the color with the white metallic stock. ( so cool). I uploaded high resolution so you could really see what it looks like.

Fun... not boring Business Holiday Cards

2010-09-27T08:01:00.001-07:00

Sending Holiday Cards is a must in business, but please don't send something really really boring this year. Everyone needs a little smile in 2010--and a maybe some inspiration. Check this card out from Katlblu Studio-- we offer it exclusively on-line as a personalized cards for business or personal. Add a photo to the inside or back -- maybe everyone should wear reindeer hats.

Holiday Photo Cards 2010 Paper

Ruvacards Holiday Photo Card Paper Selection and Video

2010-09-22T11:36:00.001-07:00

My background it printing and graphic design come in just a tad handy when testing new papers. I test new paper stocks every year and it is quite a lot of work, looking for heavier stocks that still print crisp and sharp. Watch the new video on paper options available this year and if you have any questions, please give me a call-- really!! I actually answer most of time, if I don't shoot us an e-mail and we will get back to you.

Reasons Why Children Should Keep Handwriting Thank You Notes

2010-09-17T19:12:00.001-07:00

We wrote this article a while ago and I think it worth revisiting today. I just had to add a few more social media tools, facebook, twitter and I really could go on and on, but you get the idea. An imperfect note is better than a note never written.

Handwritten Communication Continues to Have its Place

While technology takes over some of the heavy lifting, handwriting remains an important part of who we are.

Handwriting has long been a skill that identifies us from each other. Like a fingerprint, our handwriting is unique from everyone else on the planet. Although teachers did their best to get all students to form each cursive letter exactly the same, students always showed their individual cursive style. There was the left-hander’s back slant, the cursive-print combination style, the tiny letters, and some illegible examples that only the author himself could discern.

Today the idea of a handwritten composition is nothing more than a fable told to disbelieving students – “You wrote the words? With a pen?” However, according to a washingtonpost.com article, the loss of handwriting also may be a cognitive opportunity missed. The article explains, “Studies show that the neurological process that directs thought, through fingers, into written symbols is a highly sophisticated one. Several children express their thoughts better – a lifelong benefit.”

While technology has given the gift of efficiency and accuracy to our writing, it cannot provide a truly personal touch. It is the handwritten messages that we remember most – the stack of love letters, the yearbooks filled with the wisdom of 18 year-old high school graduates, cherished letters of encouragement received during the uncertainty of college, notes of gratitude for kindness shown, and the offer of sympathy and hope to others in times of loss. These are the moments when e-mail just won’t do.

The beauty of communication is that there is room for all kinds. As technology helps us communicate more quickly and easily with e-mails,text messaging, facebook, twitter, there will forever remain a place for the personal and intimate touch that only handwriting can give.

Written by Nancy Kuenster, Appleton, WI

Cool stationery for kids

Comfort in Tradition Holiday Photo Card

2010-09-17T18:44:00.001-07:00

It really is the simple family traditions that we remember the most... comfortable, familiar memories..cutting down the Christmas Tree together, going to Grandma and eating the best cutouts ever... your son and daughter in the school holiday plays.....

I love this card designed by Michelle Snyder, using graphic retro ornaments on the front and adding family traditions on the inside.

Celebrating the Memories!

Thiscard paired with a red envelope is killer.

We can also add additional photos on the back as well--it is full color bleed on the back and more photos would pop off the back. Why waste the back?

Couples stationery - customers have the best ideas

2010-09-13T10:04:00.001-07:00

I had a customer use this flat personalized card as couple stationery. She told me to put two names in and this is what we did. I think this card looks better this way and is so much fun.

Now that French Paper Pop tone has envelopes available in all colors and sizing--I might just add that as an option. What do you think?

Thanks for the idea!

Facebook (1) | jasmere: gives a way a free product everyday

2010-09-12T12:51:00.001-07:00

via facebook.com

You might want to try this: they give-a-way a free product everyday.!

10 Tips for Re-energizing Your Day, Every Day : The World :: Give Thanks

2010-09-09T07:14:00.001-07:00

Jul 23, 2010 -

When he wrote his 2004 bestselling book The Power of Full Engagement, Tony Schwartz, CEO of The Energy Project, wrote for 10 to 12 hours at a time, as he had done in writing his previous books.

He never finished a book in less than a year. For his new book, The Way We're Working Isn't Working, he wrote using a “pulse” method, working without interruptions for three 90 minute periods, and taking a break between each one. He had breakfast after the first session, went for a run after the second, and had lunch after the third. He wrote no more than 4 1/2 hours a day, and finished the book in less than six months.

The question, of course, is why change something that works? The short answer is in the book’s title: because his way of working wasn’t working... at least not nearly as well as it could. The longer answer is a bit more scientific.

By limiting each writing cycle to 90 minutes and building in periods of renewal, Tony was able to focus far more intensely and get more done in far less time. Again, why? Because numerous research studies show that our bodies operate by 90 minute rhythms during the day. When we’re awake, we move from higher to lower alertness every 90 minutes.

And here’s the thing: our bodies clearly signal that rhythm, in the form of restlessness, hunger, drowsiness and loss of focus. Generally we either ignore or override those signals, because we have a lot to do and many ways to artificially pump up our energy with various supplements. The problem is that after working at high intensity for more than 90 minutes, our brains begin to shut down. We become more reactive and less capable of thinking clearly and reflectively, or seeing the big picture.

According to Tony, the working world is facing a new kind of energy crisis—and this one’s personal. We aren’t designed to operate like computers—at high speeds, continuously, running multiple programs at the same time—but we do. The consequence is that we’re increasingly distracted, exhausted and demoralized, especially in a recession-driven world that forces us to get more done with fewer resources.

In fact, human beings are designed to pulse, to move between spending and renewing energy to meet our four key needs: physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. This flies in the face of prevailing work practices, which are in reality built on a few myths, which Schwartz easily busts with research:

Myth: Great performers get by on less sleep.

Reality: Research suggests just the opposite. Across disparate fields, elite performers sleep an average of 8 1/2 hours a night, compared to the 6 1/2 hours that the average American sleeps.

Myth: A little anxiety and fear help motivate us when we’re facing tough deadlines.

Reality: In fact, negative emotions of any kind consistently undermine high performance. The better we feel, the better we perform.

Myth: Multitasking is a key to getting more done in a world of relentless demand.

Reality: Numerous studies have shown that when we juggle multiple activities, the time it takes to finish any given one activity increases by an average of 25 percent.

Tony argues that we “should try to get things done in bursts of intensely focused activity, interspersed with periods of rest and recovery.” Here are 10 tips for doing just that:

1. Make sufficient sleep your highest priority. After breathing, sleeping is our most fundamental need. It’s also the first thing we’re willing to give up in an effort to get more done. Begin quieting down at least 30 minutes before you go to sleep. Avoid anything stimulating, such as the Internet, mysteries, and intense conversations. Wind down with mellow music, a bath, or herbal tea.

2. Exercise begins with the First Step. If you’re struggling to find the time or motivation to start an exercise routine, buy a pedometer and record the number of steps you take every day. Shoot for 10,000—the recommended daily number of steps to ensure you are getting enough movement in your day to be fit.

3. Prioritize your tasks the night before. The number of potential distractions, interruptions, and fatigue tends to increase throughout the day. Do the most important work of your day first, before checking email, if possible.

4. Become a Type A Eater. Decide in advance what you’re going to eat, in what portions, and at what intervals. That’s the best way to avoid endless temptations, unconscious cues, and “that-looks-good!” surprises that override our self-discipline and cause us to veer off track.

5. Breathe deep. If you feel negative emotions coming on, or when you feel frustrated, annoyed, or anxious, simply take a few deep breaths. Extend the exhale to decrease your physiological arousal and quickly restore a sense of calm.

6. Give Thanks. Write a note of appreciation to someone in your life once a week. We’re far quicker to notice what’s wrong than to celebrate what’s right in others. You might be surprised to discover how energized and inspired people are when they feel recognized and appreciated.

7. Log Off Your Email. Try turning off your email completely for at least one hour a day. Use that time to devote your full attention to a significant task or larger challenge you’re facing.

8. Daydream for Breakthroughs. Schedule at least one half-hour a week to brainstorm around some issue at work. You can help access your right hemisphere by doodling, listening to instrumental music, going for a long walk—anything that lets your mind wander.

9. Take a break. Taking time to renew every 90 minutes keeps your body in alignment with its natural rhythms. Much as we cycle through stages of sleep at night, so we go through a similar cycle every 90 minutes throughout the day, moving from a state of higher energy slowly down into fatigue.

10. Accentuate the Positive. Make a list of activities that you enjoy most and that make you feel best. Intentionally schedule at least one of these activities into your life each week.

Tony argues that, “To build a competitive advantage, organizations must help employees to cultivate qualities that have never before been critical—among them authenticity, empathy, self-awareness, constant creativity, an internal sense of purpose, and, perhaps above all, resilience in the face of relentless change. And whatever our employers do, we serve ourselves well to cultivate these same qualities in order to be more effective and more satisfied, both on the job and off.”

You can find The Energy Project team on Facebook and follow them on Twitter @energy_project.

Matthew E. May is a design and innovation strategist. You can follow him on Twitter @matthewemay.

via openforum.com

I wanted to share the entire piece because all the tips were great, but #6 really caught my eye. Give thanks -- it also makes me stop and appreciate as well.

The biggest Holiday Photo Card on-line

2010-09-02T10:11:00.001-07:00

I think I can safely say we are one of the few if not only card companies that prints an 8 1/2 x 5 1/2 holiday flat card for the same price as a 5 x 7. Not only that, we print both sides. It is the same amount of paper, shipping costs, then why not print the back as well. And we are not done yet, personalize the back with your own special message.....

Envelopes are included. I love this design with the kids-1!! So cute-- maybe it will snow early for those great shots in the snow. We will offer in a few different colors to coordinate with your photos.

Red Scrolling Holiday Photo Card

3 Back to School Stationery Ideas

2010-08-20T07:34:00.001-07:00

Kids and Pre-teens love designs that reflect them or are just plain cool. Check these out:
1. Kids Artwork Notecards. ( go ahead and either have them draw something or pick a great masterpiece from last year) I keep them all it big art folder and pick one. New Design by Fin and Roe ( I love the cross -stitch ) . Works great for holiday thank you cards as well.
2. Boys Sports Stationery: Get them one with their favorite sport! Going into football, we customize with the colors of their favorite team. Printed on really heavy card stock.
3. Urban Blast for girls or boys: ( do I need to say more)
Boys Stationery
Kids Artwork Notecards
Tween/Teen Stationery

2010 Holiday Cards using Kids Artwork

2010-08-11T20:09:00.001-07:00

As most of you might know: I love using kids artwork in cards, especially holiday cards. It really captures the child like wonder of the holidays.
kim viernes from zoom in design adds to our designs with these knock outs. What do you think?
Customize Greeting and all the rest!
Paper and Tape Holiday Card
Chalkboard Holiday Card

http://www.ruvacards.com/store.cfm/ProductID/449

RuvaCards Personalized magnets featured in Tot Trends

2010-08-09T08:11:00.001-07:00

Thanks for featuring these great magnets: we think they are pretty cool so glad you do as well. They make fabulous stocking stuffers- birthday gifts-- and they truly make my fridge look a lot better.

Discount code is offered http://www.tottrendsweekly.com/current-iss ue.php?id=P2529

ue.php?id=P2529

Velvet Vellum Photo Christmas Card

2010-07-19T20:21:00.001-07:00

A new design my Michelle Snyder, combines the elegance of vellum paper as an overlay. The copy is printed on the vellum and the card is printed and using glue dots adhered to the center panel. Vellum is pre-printed to reduce the cost of a custom overlay.

Watch for more variety of vellum overlays to choose from.

New Photo Christmas Cards from Jilly Jack Designs

2010-07-12T15:51:00.001-07:00

RUVAcards new Holiday Photo Cards for 2010

Just some of the new 2010 Holiday Photo Cards. More sizes, more options, just plain fun, beautiful and cool!

Here are the new designs by Jilly Jack Designs, with great colors and options. Jilly Jack works with The Fresh Bunch as well, but we are very glad she took some time this summer and put together some very fun and colorful Christmas and holiday photo cards for us.

We print 130# Matte Cover stock. ( Video to come later on paper, finishes,etc).FSC certified, very green company Appleton Ideas, the paper supplier.

via ruvacards.posterous.com

New Photo Christmas Cards 2010

2010-07-08T07:26:00.001-07:00

Michelle Snyder has such a great way of incorporating the sentiments we all feel during the holiday time. It is a time to reflect, enjoy and try not to cram so much in we go crazy. Easier said than done. Take a look at her new designs--

Flat cards and a very large size: 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 printed on 130# Matte Cover Stock, 30% recycled with a wonderful printing surface.

Dan Judge Red Curtain Music Series Posters

2010-06-30T10:54:00.001-07:00

via google.com

I agree completely, colors, type and vintage look are so cool! I would like all of them.

Holiday Photo Card Contest- Give-A-Way

2010-06-25T20:13:00.001-07:00

Holiday Photo Card Give-A-Way from RUVAcards.com
Every year at about this time we start narrowing our designs down with a team of moms, designers and a few dads. Also brainstorming on new designs!
We want your input this year!!!! -- If you could send out any holiday card you want what would it include? Tell us the best card you ever received. What do you want a card to say? More pictures, cute saying? How do you connect with friends and family using the holiday card?. Scribble something on paper and scan it in or tell us--we are cool either way. No need to be a graphic designer, we want your brain power.
Give us a tweet @ruvacards. Responses only excepted through twitter or facebook. Just got up my facebook fan page ( I must be the last person on earth)
Twitter
Facebook Fan Page

Giving A Way One $50.00 GC and 2 $25.00. Contest ends 7/30.

Gifts for Father's Day and a Very cool Card for Dad!

2010-06-05T20:36:00.001-07:00

You might have the kind of Dad that you can say anything to or maybe a Dad that you know loves you, but a little harder to have a heart to heart chat. Think about sending our custom personalized Father's card -- I have a really good feeling he puts in somewhere where he can read it more often throughout the year. Add the Fresh Roast Dark Coffee with the coordinating label for a truly unique gift. I love the label and the card together-- it is truly fun and sentimental at the same time.

Take a look at the Dad's Pad as well. Great Gift from the Kids! Golf personalized notecards, Football notepads with his favorite teams colors.

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Double Wedding Invitations

2010-06-05T19:33:00.001-07:00

Jess, one of the designers at RUVAcards got married yesterday. It was a double wedding with her sister. The invitation was so so cool I just had to share it with all of you. I love the way Jess included the parents, where they are all living, and a very nice way to put the whole gift thing. The colors are just fabulous printed 100# Cover uncoated white .... pretty smooth stock, Accent Opaque. It has a short fold and the flowers match up on the inside.I cropped the front cover so you could see it better, but hopefully the idea comes across when you see the whole outside.

Retail Business Cards with Style

2010-06-02T11:18:00.001-07:00

We did these business cards for Earl's Bike Shop in Bellingham, WA. They fold in half, which I love business cards to do, plus they can be used for price tags if so desired. For some business I do some with custom printing and then leave the inside 1/2 blank.

Download now or preview on posterous

businesscardnew.pdf (470 KB)

Lots of room to write a quick a note for someone, give them a price, product number, look into stuff... you get the idea.

Antique Patterns Inspire Colors

2010-05-25T15:22:00.001-07:00

I was lucking enough to get some of my grandma's things quite few years ago. I just stuck them in a corner and forgot about them, but as I was sitting in my office/dining room I thought they were pretty cool and inspiring. The quilt I think was done by a great grandma, it would make a beautiful garden bedroom. What I like the most is the color combinations.

Family Tree Birth Announcement - Make that connection

2010-05-19T13:45:00.001-07:00

A Birth Announcement that makes connections between families.... trigger so many thoughts.

He has Mom's eyes, Dad's nose, Grandma hands ( you get the idea). This announcement captures all of that and then some.

Customize:

Family Names
Lots of Photos ( 1-4)
Special saying on the leaves: add a Bible verse, he has ... mom's hair
See the full gallery on posterous

Postcard from France.

2010-05-18T15:17:00.001-07:00

I was going through some designs from Jane Lowery. She has an incredible vintage French stamp collection. I just fell in love with it. Ok last time I was in France I had no money, a backpack and a train pass. But I had a blast with friends and I will never forget it.

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Treat Yourself and Mom: 15% off stationery until May 1st.

2010-04-27T19:01:00.001-07:00

Soft colors and beautiful paper make this a wonderful gift. Printed on 130# soft white paper, with 30% recycled and FSC certified. Designed by Jess, exclusive for RUVA. Makes great couples stationery as well.

Coupon code: MOMDAY15 for 15% off until May 1st.

Boy Birth Announcement - fabulous - RUVAcards

2010-04-24T14:05:00.001-07:00

I just love this baby announcement we did recently. The shot with the beautiful baby on the vintage coach is out standing. We didn't even change the colors on the announcement, it matched perfectly.--

The same concept could really work with anything, blanket, etc. We added more photos to the inside as well.

#mce_temp_url#

$50.00 RUVACards Give-A-Way: 4 days left

2010-04-22T10:26:00.001-07:00

Tell me something about your mom that you know will make her smile. It can be funny, sentimental, ( you know what I mean). I truly believe it is the smallest or sometimes the most generous gestures of time, attention that we cherish the most.

I remember the dinners in the oven ( with tin foil over the plate) ready when I came home from practice. I was a competitive figure skater as a kid and was gone most night.

Comment on this blog and you will be entered into a random drawing or e-mail my at cindy@ruvacards.com (I have received quite a few that way).

Contest Ends April 26th.

Winner receives a Free Card and Gift Set and Free Shipping of course.

I will contact you and get the gift going.

Thanks

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Free Shipping - 15% off - on the perfect Gift for Mom

2010-04-22T07:47:00.001-07:00

Unique Fresh Modern Stationery Designs for MOM.

Great new colors added Jess. -- Love love them.!

CouponCodes: Choose the best discount.

1. FREESHIPMOM: Free Shipping on entire order until April 26th.

2. MOMDAY15 for 15% off until May 1st.