Starting a New Business is an exciting and scaring adventure. When we launched this business we had no idea how fast it would grow and how many people's lives we would touch. The Growth has been so gratifying and still scary. We continue to reinvest everything back into our business. We have learned so very much and continue learning every day. Custom Silver Casting has become a big part of our business. Our goal is to eventually have most of our Silver to be Custom designed by us and produced exclusively for Milestones Jewelry. We want to offer you items that can not be found anywhere else. We are also buying an Engraving machine that is Awesome, it will do logo's, Vector art and enable us to customize pieces for you at a very reasonable price.
I mentioned in my last post that a big announcement will be made in January 2012 that I think you all will be as excited about as we are. There are so many things on the Horizon that we will soon be announcing all to be able to offer you, our customers the best products at the best prices.
On a personal note; I continue to struggle with my marathon training for the ING Miami Marathon on January 29th. Some weeks are great and others...well, not so much. I have a half marathon this weekend and I'm a bit nervous about it because it is a very Challenging course, lots of hills and a real Killer in the last mile. But I love challenges so I'll let you know how I do.
We continue to add lots of new products to our website so check back often. Our line of Apparel is growing as well as the popularity of our Sporty Bands. (headbands that look great and don't slip off) Check them out if you have not done so.
Well, I hope to see you all at one of many upcoming Expos. Check our calendar and please stop by our booth and say Hello!
Until next time.....
Melody
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Living Life at Race Pace!
WOW, My blog!! I had almost forgotten how to access it. It's been so long since I've made a post. That's good news and bad news. We've been so busy that I've barely had a moment to breathe. My training has suffered more than anything. But I guess we have to make choices, there are only so many hours in a day.
So since I last checked in we've been to New Jersey twice, Philly, Columbia Maryland, D.C., Nashville and Lake Lanier Island (near Atlanta, GA.) All for Triathlon Expos with the exception of Nashville which was the Women's half Marathon. Too many hours in the car. But all the Expos were great and very successful for Milestones Jewelry.
When I started this Blog it was to be about my Journey of starting a new business. I've strayed quite a bit away from that and unfortunately not recorded many things I wish I had. But the bottom line is that we are growing leaps and bounds. As they say "You've come a long way Baby!" Especially since our first event with one little table and our yellow table cloth, no logos, no signs, no tents, no grid walls, no displays, etc.
We now have a Fantastic Set up with two tents, Logo'd table clothes, Banners and signs, Awesome Displays, a full line of Apparel, Sporty Bands, Our own Custom Cast Silver and Pewter designed Jewelry, and we continue to grow. Our website has been redesigned and is being Optimized to create a higher placement on all search engines; resulting in higher Internet sales for us. We have also built a great data base of core customers. We can now communicate with over 7,000 Runners and Triathletes.
It never ceases to amaze me, the stories I hear, the people I meet at expos and through the website, on the phone and emails. They all inspire me and make me proud to have a business that touches so many people's lives.
We are working with Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to set up a category on our website for a special Line of Jewelry where all purchases will have a percentage donated to LLS. We are working with several other organizations to do the same thing. Many of you know that I ran my first Marathon 6 years ago for LLS with Team in Training, so they will always hold a special place in my heart.
We are also currently working on several custom Sterling Silver pieces for two different Triathlon clubs and have tons of inquires from Race Directors and Organizations for us to create custom pieces for them.
We are also buying an Engraving machine! YEAH!!! We currently have to send all our engraved pieces to a third party and this will allow us to create some awesome Customized pieces and we hope to be able to bring the engraver to events where we can do custom engraving right on the spot!!
We are also working on a HUGE (Secret) project that I can not currently talk about. But believe me it will take this business to the next level and I think all our customers will LOVE IT!! Stayed tuned for the big announcement!!
Another big change.....We have purchased a home in St. Petersburg, FL which will allow us to spend Winters in Florida and Summers in North Carolina. The best of both Worlds.
So times are a changing!! I just hope I can keep up.
I'm in the second week of my 18 week Marathon Journey to Miami, FL on Jan. 29th. So I'll try my best to balance all that's on my plate!!
Thank you again to my friends and Family who have always believed in me and supported even my craziest ventures. And to all my customers, many whom have become my friends.
It's so wonderful to have your work be your passion!!
And I leave you with this:
"Don't ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive. ~Attributed to Howard Thurman
So since I last checked in we've been to New Jersey twice, Philly, Columbia Maryland, D.C., Nashville and Lake Lanier Island (near Atlanta, GA.) All for Triathlon Expos with the exception of Nashville which was the Women's half Marathon. Too many hours in the car. But all the Expos were great and very successful for Milestones Jewelry.
When I started this Blog it was to be about my Journey of starting a new business. I've strayed quite a bit away from that and unfortunately not recorded many things I wish I had. But the bottom line is that we are growing leaps and bounds. As they say "You've come a long way Baby!" Especially since our first event with one little table and our yellow table cloth, no logos, no signs, no tents, no grid walls, no displays, etc.
We now have a Fantastic Set up with two tents, Logo'd table clothes, Banners and signs, Awesome Displays, a full line of Apparel, Sporty Bands, Our own Custom Cast Silver and Pewter designed Jewelry, and we continue to grow. Our website has been redesigned and is being Optimized to create a higher placement on all search engines; resulting in higher Internet sales for us. We have also built a great data base of core customers. We can now communicate with over 7,000 Runners and Triathletes.
It never ceases to amaze me, the stories I hear, the people I meet at expos and through the website, on the phone and emails. They all inspire me and make me proud to have a business that touches so many people's lives.
We are working with Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to set up a category on our website for a special Line of Jewelry where all purchases will have a percentage donated to LLS. We are working with several other organizations to do the same thing. Many of you know that I ran my first Marathon 6 years ago for LLS with Team in Training, so they will always hold a special place in my heart.
We are also currently working on several custom Sterling Silver pieces for two different Triathlon clubs and have tons of inquires from Race Directors and Organizations for us to create custom pieces for them.
We are also buying an Engraving machine! YEAH!!! We currently have to send all our engraved pieces to a third party and this will allow us to create some awesome Customized pieces and we hope to be able to bring the engraver to events where we can do custom engraving right on the spot!!
We are also working on a HUGE (Secret) project that I can not currently talk about. But believe me it will take this business to the next level and I think all our customers will LOVE IT!! Stayed tuned for the big announcement!!
Another big change.....We have purchased a home in St. Petersburg, FL which will allow us to spend Winters in Florida and Summers in North Carolina. The best of both Worlds.
So times are a changing!! I just hope I can keep up.
I'm in the second week of my 18 week Marathon Journey to Miami, FL on Jan. 29th. So I'll try my best to balance all that's on my plate!!
Thank you again to my friends and Family who have always believed in me and supported even my craziest ventures. And to all my customers, many whom have become my friends.
It's so wonderful to have your work be your passion!!
And I leave you with this:
"Don't ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive. ~Attributed to Howard Thurman
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
ROCK N ROLL MAN TRIATHLON
So in spite of the heat, Macon was really beautiful. Great location for a race, right on the Beautiful Lake.
We also got to see one of our other favorite customers; Nobuko Fogarty and her son. What a great Mother, Son Team. Nobuko you amaze me every time I see you. You just keep on striving and achieving so much. I think you look younger every time I see you. You are a great role model for your son.
Thanks to all our wonderful customers.
We have just about wrapped up the new design of our website, so If you haven't seen it yet you have to check it out. Let us know what you think.
Next comes new Photo shoots and lots of new products in the works.
For me personally? Well my 18 week marathon training starts next week. I'll be training for the "Ridge to Bridge" Marathon in Morganton, NC. I hear it is a very scenic course but is limited to only 300 participants. It sold out in one day, so it must be pretty cool. I will be running with my friend Amanda and hopefully our friend Tom. So I'll keep you posted on the inevitable ups and downs of marathon training while running a business, traveling and keeping up with day to day life in the fast lane.
Remember- "Either you run the day or the day runs you".
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Iron Girl from Florida to Georgia!
Belly Rings were a big hit at Iron Girl, Clearwater, FL. They have a loop so you can choose from all our great charms and add it to the Belly Ring. Pictured here is one of our many happy customers.
Both our Iron Girl events in Florida and Georgia were super successes. The events were run fantastically, Customers were great as usual and we had a great time. We are looking forward to Iron Girl in Columbia Maryland in the Fall. But for now we are off to Macon, Ga. this weekend for the Rock n Roll Triathlon and then we start on the road to many more expos.
My training has been... well.... not much. I have been having a difficult time getting back in the groove. But with my marathon training program only weeks away I'm gearing back up for some serious training, and getting back on track with eating. Gotta shed a few pounds. I'm planning to run the Bridge to Ridge Marathon in Morganton, NC in October. In the meantime I've been busy planning a huge fundraising event for Logan's Run Rescue, where my beloved Aragorn came from. We are having a "PAW-TY in the PARK" which kicks off with a 5K run for the humans, followed by a 1 Mile Mutt Strut with Dogs and their owners. We have cash prizes and tons of great goodies for the goody bags for both dogs and their owners. Plus the day will be filled with great activities for Kids and the whole family, like a bounce house, face painting, Fantastic Raffle items, Music and Dog Contests like The Best Trick contest and the Dog/Owner Lookalike contest.
It's right on Lake Chatuge with a beautiful 5k course that will be run on a paved trail that goes over the Dam, with breath taking views of the Lake and mountains.
So as you can see I'm staying pretty busy. Oh I almost forgot to mention the great Garden I am growing, Heirloom tomatoes, Red & Yellow bell peppers, hot Chilli Peppers, Eggplant, cucumbers, onions, even horseradish. And of course Herbs of all kinds. I'm looking forward to a great bounty in the fall.
Well better close it up and get ready for Swimming, Tuesday is Swim night. Looking forward to a good workout.
Stay Happy and Reach for the Stars!!
Melody
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Marathon & Triathlon Motivation!
It's funny but I'm sure I've written about motivation or lack there of, before :-)
I ponder this question; If Running, Swimming and Cycling give me such an endorphin high and make me feel so good why do I go through periods of being so UNmotivated?
I've been in Florida since the end of January and unfortunately have had very little time to enjoy the great weather and my friends. The reason is actually a good one. Milestones Jewelry is on a huge growth curve. We have expanded our line to Clothing, Accessories and we even have Belly Rings that you can add a charm to. We have had a custom made "Milestone's Melody" Pendant and smaller charm that is a replica from our logo. We are currently in production with several other custom designs. It's all very exciting!!
Our Expos have been absolutely wonderful starting with ING Miami in January and hopefully wrapping up beautifully this weekend with IRON GIRL in Clearwater. Then next week we pack it in and go back home to the mountains of North Carolina. As much as I love Florida; I miss my deck overlooking the mountain ranges and my home, long walks through the woods with the dogs and my running buddies.
Which brings me back to my point of motivation. I think part of why I have not been running or doing my Triathlon training is I don't really have a core group of manics to meet up with. I know you shouldn't have to be motivated by others but it helps when you know people are expecting you to show up.
Anyway, I enjoy running with those folks as I've stated in the past. I miss them and can't wait to get my butt kicked on the hills with them late next week. Tar-Hell here I come! I wonder if the Hills have missed me as much as I've missed them? I wonder if my friends will remember to include me in the email trail that starts around 11am every morning about where and when we are Running, Cycling or Swimming?
"So When defeat comes, accept it as a signal that your plans are not sound, rebuild those plans, and set sail once more toward your coveted goal"
Napoleon Hill
I ponder this question; If Running, Swimming and Cycling give me such an endorphin high and make me feel so good why do I go through periods of being so UNmotivated?
I've been in Florida since the end of January and unfortunately have had very little time to enjoy the great weather and my friends. The reason is actually a good one. Milestones Jewelry is on a huge growth curve. We have expanded our line to Clothing, Accessories and we even have Belly Rings that you can add a charm to. We have had a custom made "Milestone's Melody" Pendant and smaller charm that is a replica from our logo. We are currently in production with several other custom designs. It's all very exciting!!
Our Expos have been absolutely wonderful starting with ING Miami in January and hopefully wrapping up beautifully this weekend with IRON GIRL in Clearwater. Then next week we pack it in and go back home to the mountains of North Carolina. As much as I love Florida; I miss my deck overlooking the mountain ranges and my home, long walks through the woods with the dogs and my running buddies.
Which brings me back to my point of motivation. I think part of why I have not been running or doing my Triathlon training is I don't really have a core group of manics to meet up with. I know you shouldn't have to be motivated by others but it helps when you know people are expecting you to show up.
Anyway, I enjoy running with those folks as I've stated in the past. I miss them and can't wait to get my butt kicked on the hills with them late next week. Tar-Hell here I come! I wonder if the Hills have missed me as much as I've missed them? I wonder if my friends will remember to include me in the email trail that starts around 11am every morning about where and when we are Running, Cycling or Swimming?
I wonder how fast I'll get back in the shape I was in when I left? Wonder, Wonder! Soon I shall see!
And on that note I'll leave you with this:
Napoleon Hill
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
It's NOT "JUST" a Half marathon; it's a Milestone Endurance Accomplishment!
For the last several years Milestones Jewelry has done the Marathon and half marathon Expo circuit. We have had the pleasure of meeting and talking to so many wonderful people. People of all walks of life, all sizes, shapes and all running for a different reason. One of the most common comments I hear is I'm JUST running the Half marathon". "JUST"!!....Are you kidding me? 13.1 miles or 21.1 Kilometers is a LONG way! It takes the same training, Endurance, the same sacrifices, the same Passion and commitment and joy of running as the Marathon. I always tell these people that they should be proud of their accomplishment and not feel like it's only a stepping stone to the marathon. Running a marathon is great if that's what your goal is. But running a half marathon is a Milestone Endurance Accomplishment!
The half marathon is the fastest growing running distance race in the past several years. Don't ever feel less for running a half as a friend or co-worker that runs a full marathon.
As a matter of fact my two fastest running friends (sub 6 minute milers) ONLY run half marathons. That's their passion. All my running Buddies in North Carolina could easily run a full marathon and several of us do. But the majority of them LIVE for the HALF! They train so much harder than most of the marathon runners I know. Speed work, Intervals, running in any kind of weather, Snow, rain, wind, nothing stops them. Oh and hills? Just the mention of a route that involves the most difficult hills puts a huge smile on their face.
They are currently Training for the Nashville Half marathon and I hear they are more focused and are training harder than ever. Everyone wants a PR and I'm sure they'll all get it. Me? I'm in Florida still on the marathon circuit trying to get in enough training to do "JUST" a SPRINT Triathlon.....We'll save that one for another post.
So I'll close by saying Take the word "JUST" out of your vocabulary. Proudly proclaim when asked "I AM A Runner and I run HALF Marathons". Remember It's not just a half marathon it's a Milestone Endurance Accomplishment! If it was easy everyone would be doing it!!
I am in Awe of everyone that has trained for a half marathon and crossed that finish line. No one can ever take that feeling of accomplishment away from you.
"The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start."
-John Bingham
The half marathon is the fastest growing running distance race in the past several years. Don't ever feel less for running a half as a friend or co-worker that runs a full marathon.
As a matter of fact my two fastest running friends (sub 6 minute milers) ONLY run half marathons. That's their passion. All my running Buddies in North Carolina could easily run a full marathon and several of us do. But the majority of them LIVE for the HALF! They train so much harder than most of the marathon runners I know. Speed work, Intervals, running in any kind of weather, Snow, rain, wind, nothing stops them. Oh and hills? Just the mention of a route that involves the most difficult hills puts a huge smile on their face.
They are currently Training for the Nashville Half marathon and I hear they are more focused and are training harder than ever. Everyone wants a PR and I'm sure they'll all get it. Me? I'm in Florida still on the marathon circuit trying to get in enough training to do "JUST" a SPRINT Triathlon.....We'll save that one for another post.
So I'll close by saying Take the word "JUST" out of your vocabulary. Proudly proclaim when asked "I AM A Runner and I run HALF Marathons". Remember It's not just a half marathon it's a Milestone Endurance Accomplishment! If it was easy everyone would be doing it!!
I am in Awe of everyone that has trained for a half marathon and crossed that finish line. No one can ever take that feeling of accomplishment away from you.
"The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start."
-John Bingham
Monday, March 7, 2011
My first Triathlon-How to pick a race?
OK, So I've started Swimming and biking, and continuing my running of course. But my first question to you seasoned Triathletes is how do you put all the training together? I feel like I can only do one sport per day because of time restraints. And then the BIGGEST question, is how far out should I pick a race (I just started training and need to do my first Tri before my next marathon training starts in June). Oh and which race do I choose?? One with a really short swim or for the location, one with Women only?? I really need to pick a race and sign up. I seem to be so unmotivated if I don't' have a specific race I'm training for. So any help would be greatly appreciated.
Then there's the problem of working so many of the best Triathlons. Hard to work and then do the Tri the next day and leave my poor husband to work the race day expo by himself. Well, a lot to think about.
Today is Cycling and a few miles running after that. I'm really trying to put 2 sports together each day.
So I'll keep you posted on how it goes.
Meanwhile, on the Milestones Jewelry front, We are adding so many great products.We now have some unbelievable Pandora style starter bracelets and great European style beads to go on them. Check out our website for the 13.1, 26.2, and running shoe beads PLUS we just got in Mickey Mouse, Goofy and Donald Duck in European style beads, they fit Pandora, troll and all European style bracelets.
Use the code BLOG to receive 10% off all purchases you make prior to March 31st!!!
We will be adding tons more products so visit our website often to see all the new exciting products.
Have a great day,
Melody
Then there's the problem of working so many of the best Triathlons. Hard to work and then do the Tri the next day and leave my poor husband to work the race day expo by himself. Well, a lot to think about.
Today is Cycling and a few miles running after that. I'm really trying to put 2 sports together each day.
So I'll keep you posted on how it goes.
Meanwhile, on the Milestones Jewelry front, We are adding so many great products.We now have some unbelievable Pandora style starter bracelets and great European style beads to go on them. Check out our website for the 13.1, 26.2, and running shoe beads PLUS we just got in Mickey Mouse, Goofy and Donald Duck in European style beads, they fit Pandora, troll and all European style bracelets.
Use the code BLOG to receive 10% off all purchases you make prior to March 31st!!!
We will be adding tons more products so visit our website often to see all the new exciting products.
Melody
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Our Whirl wind tour of the marathon Expos in Florida
Whew!! After 6 marathon expos over 5 weeks, from Miami to Jacksonville I can say I am completed exhausted, exhilarated, and ready to get back into my work out routine. It's been a great journey, all of our expos were profitable and we met and got reacquainted with so many nice friends and customers of Milestones Jewelry.
We are working on our website, which seems a never ending project to update it with new pictures of all the great new products we have launched. My big challenge right now is photography, We are building a light box, bought an expensive camera that I can not seem to figure our how to use correctly but where's there's a will there's a way. I am so looking forward to the day I can just whip out my camera and new design, shoot, upload and have it on the website. Patience my friends say, Patience!!
I am enjoying being in Florida, I did my first bike ride this week, 20 miles and it was so enjoyable. I am doing a long run tomorrow and looking forward to cycling with my husband next week.
We have a bit of a break, (compared to teh last 5 weeks) so we are going to try to get in at least one beach day and spend some time with friend we haven't seen in a very long time.
I do miss my home and North Carolina in many ways but I have to say that going out for Sushi around the corner and calling for delivery pizza is really a treat. In NC there is none of that, However, we eat so much healthier in NC because we are forced to cook. And luckily my husband is a great cook and has a nice heathly dinner ready for me most nights when I return from my run with the Murphy Manics.
So my goal over our remaining 3 weeks is to work on my website upgrade, design some new Triathlon charms..... Stay tuned for Belly Rings you ripped Triathletes and runners. and enjoy some time with friends and my babies Maya and Aragorn.
So as I leave you with hopes of a quick return; I will just say thank you to all of you that inspire me on a daily basis and those of my customers, friends and family that AMAZE me. I love you all, and count myself so very lucky to have the job I have and the opportunity to create, meet great people and be my own boss. Damn I am a slave driver!!!!!!
Stay tuned and tell your friends, we are hoping to figure out how to have my husband guest post on this blog about being the spouse of a compulsive runner. I think many spouses and significant others will appreciate his insights and share so many frustrations and accomplishments! Plus he's such a better writer than me and so much more interesting.
Treat each day like it's your last one,
Melody
We are working on our website, which seems a never ending project to update it with new pictures of all the great new products we have launched. My big challenge right now is photography, We are building a light box, bought an expensive camera that I can not seem to figure our how to use correctly but where's there's a will there's a way. I am so looking forward to the day I can just whip out my camera and new design, shoot, upload and have it on the website. Patience my friends say, Patience!!
I am enjoying being in Florida, I did my first bike ride this week, 20 miles and it was so enjoyable. I am doing a long run tomorrow and looking forward to cycling with my husband next week.
We have a bit of a break, (compared to teh last 5 weeks) so we are going to try to get in at least one beach day and spend some time with friend we haven't seen in a very long time.
I do miss my home and North Carolina in many ways but I have to say that going out for Sushi around the corner and calling for delivery pizza is really a treat. In NC there is none of that, However, we eat so much healthier in NC because we are forced to cook. And luckily my husband is a great cook and has a nice heathly dinner ready for me most nights when I return from my run with the Murphy Manics.
So my goal over our remaining 3 weeks is to work on my website upgrade, design some new Triathlon charms..... Stay tuned for Belly Rings you ripped Triathletes and runners. and enjoy some time with friends and my babies Maya and Aragorn.
So as I leave you with hopes of a quick return; I will just say thank you to all of you that inspire me on a daily basis and those of my customers, friends and family that AMAZE me. I love you all, and count myself so very lucky to have the job I have and the opportunity to create, meet great people and be my own boss. Damn I am a slave driver!!!!!!
Stay tuned and tell your friends, we are hoping to figure out how to have my husband guest post on this blog about being the spouse of a compulsive runner. I think many spouses and significant others will appreciate his insights and share so many frustrations and accomplishments! Plus he's such a better writer than me and so much more interesting.
Treat each day like it's your last one,
Sunday, January 16, 2011
HOME SWEET HOME!
Well we finally returned home from our visit in Florida and our expo at the Mobile First Light marathon in Mobile, AL. We had a wonderful time with my family but had to extend our stay due to the terrible weather in North Carolina. We live at the top of a mountain and when it snows the road to our home is not passable without chains on the tires. But we are here and ready to get back to work, home life and training. My Triathlon training is not going very well at all. Between the traveling and little fact that I can not cycle AT ALL here with all the snow and ice, only the swimming and running is really possible at this time. But we'll be in Florida soon enough and I look forward to actually learning HOW to ride my bike. :-) I have lots of friends there that are great at cycling so I'm hoping they will help me out.
Since my Jacksonville marathon my training has been very sporadic. It's so hard after you run a marathon and don't have a set date for your next event, to stay on track with training. So I think I'll sit down today and pick a Triathlon to sign up for in Spring, a sprint Tri of course:-) and then I am thinking of committing (mentally) to run the Mohawk Hudson marathon in upstate New York in October, IF.......I don't get into the New York City marathon on November 6th. So it's New York either way. I'll see how training goes and decide if I'll go for my BQ in this marathon or just hope to shave 6-7 minutes this marathon, and then try to qualify in my next marathon after that. Lots to think about. I'll keep you posted on my decision on the Triathlon I pick!!
Well I hope everyone's new year is off to a great start!! Set your goals now and go after them. I'll keep you posted on mine.
Have a great day!!
Melody
Since my Jacksonville marathon my training has been very sporadic. It's so hard after you run a marathon and don't have a set date for your next event, to stay on track with training. So I think I'll sit down today and pick a Triathlon to sign up for in Spring, a sprint Tri of course:-) and then I am thinking of committing (mentally) to run the Mohawk Hudson marathon in upstate New York in October, IF.......I don't get into the New York City marathon on November 6th. So it's New York either way. I'll see how training goes and decide if I'll go for my BQ in this marathon or just hope to shave 6-7 minutes this marathon, and then try to qualify in my next marathon after that. Lots to think about. I'll keep you posted on my decision on the Triathlon I pick!!
Well I hope everyone's new year is off to a great start!! Set your goals now and go after them. I'll keep you posted on mine.
Have a great day!!
Melody
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