One Busy Bee

A very dear, smart and young lady that I have had the pleasure of seeing almost on a daily basis for 4 years, continues to touch my life by helping me on my journey to forgiveness and thru a very hard time in my life. She has sent me quotes and her own blog postings that have helped her. I am thankful for her. Loved this one: One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. He said, "My son, the battle is between two 'wolves' inside us all. One is evil; it is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority and ego. The other is good; it is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith." The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, "Which wolf wins?" The old Cherokee simply replied, "The one you feed."  I have felt tremendo...

Continuing to walk along the Grand Canal on the wet pavement, you can hear the water splashing against the edges and little steps leading into the water. You can hear feet making splashes in the puddles and the many different languages of tourists. The gorgeous masquerade masks caught our eye and we tried a couple on. They're so beautiful, decorative and mysterious. Who's behind the mask? I have always wanted to go to a masquerade ball. We reached our first bridge and it was wide and covered with tourists and locals probably a tad bit irritated of so many of us being in their way. We stood at the summit, above the Grand Canal and we wanted a picture. Check! Ron wanted a picture of him clicking his heels down the stairs. Check! and Click! We continued on and found ourselves a map. It was getting dark and it had started to rain. We didn't want to go down dark alleys so we stuck to a busy road. People were prepared with their rain boots but still had cones with gelato in ...

We arrived on the ship and were immediately greeted with champagne and mimosas. We were amazed at the view from the rear staircase down to the main floor where a band would play nightly and six glass elevators climb floors 2-14. The wrapped staircase from floor 3-4 is lit up and the game room, library and lounge can be seen above. There was so much to explore. We found our room on the 9th floor and a balcony was really not necessary. The inside stateroom is quite comfortable and large, you will not feel claustrophobic. There were two comfy, twin beds, robes hanging in the closet, a flat screen tv, an equipped bathroom, and full fridge. Our luggage was not going to arrive for awhile so we freshened up as much as we can and grabbed something to eat at the cafe. The food was in abundance and soo good. We have cocktails with every meal and so much to choose from, from a carving station, salad, sandwich station, and of course dessert! The lemon cod was the best..of that meal. The dining...

What a day! We landed much more smoothly in Venice than we did in JFk, New York. I was so excited to get my first stamp in my passport. I look at it afterwards and the stamp is faint. I feel cheated. Then off to go get our bags and meet Celebrity to catch our boat. "It's a ship, Daddy!" (Titanic movie reference). Taking a bus to our boat and passing the local little communities and massive bodies of water was amazing to see. I couldn't believe I was in a place I have been wanting to go in at least 10 years. I couldn't wait to explore. But first we had to board the ship. It feels like forever since I've showered. All the oiliness was covered by my Stella & Dot cap that now has to be washed. We get to the terminal and are greeted by a Celebrity employee. She hands us paperwork and tells us to take a seat and wait for our level to be called. Ron and I continued our Scrabble game and Ron enjoyed the cute, thin, young employees dressed all in black and ...

There is no doubt the city will bounce back after Super Storm Sandy. Ron and I just landed in New York, JFK airport for a 2.5 hour layover on our way to Venice. Last night, Spencer stopped by the house to say Bon voyage. Roomie met him and of course was well-liked. Man of the Earth, as I call him for his many experiences traveling all over the world, is great. We spoke of my itinerary, a few memories of his travels and had many laughs as usual. He recommended a travel guide by Lonely Planet but we weren't able to stop by a Barnes & Noble before heading to Kingfish for dinner and drinks. Bevo sat on my lap while Spencer's visit before he became interested with his bone. I knew I was going to miss him so much. He sleeps with me every night and wakes me up with kisses. I said my goodbyes to my Puppy Love. This was the longest time I was going to be away from him in 4 years. He usually travels with us often. But I know he's in good hands with Roomie. Roomie drove me ...

Congratulations to the San Francisco Giants on sweeping the Detroit Tigers in the 2012 World Series! I was bowling with my league during Game 4 that was taking place in Detroit. We finished our third game and some stayed to watch history being made. 'Gramps', I believe the owner or family member of the owner of the bowling alley came out with the broom in celebration. In regards to a celebration, I can't say I'm proud of some Giants fans that took to the streets and vandalized, mugged and trashed the home of the Champions. Similar acts happened in 2010 and it's quite an embarrassment to the city. Where's the pride? What do you think the punishment should be for such unnecessary and destructive acts? The parade happens tomorrow in Dan Francisco. I will not be in attendance but I'm sure great photos will be posted. Again, congratulations to the Bay area and the San Francisco Giants!

The holidays are upon us! Shop for your holiday gifts at one of these events and definitely come say hello at my booth! Check back here often for additional details and other events. I have great Stella & Dot samples available for sale at a great discount, or items for order. Saturday, December 1, 2012 - 10 am - 3 pm. 4449 Shannondale Dr., Antioch, California I will be there with Stella & Dot . Along with Pampered chef, Thirty-One Gifts, Stampin Up, Mary Kay, Kacies Knitted Creations, and Wine Sisters. Stay tuned for more info. Sunday, December 2, 2012 - 12 pm - 6 pm. 11 Cindy Place, Brentwood California Celena Miller is ArtC is having an open house showcasing her artwork by assignment. View samples and order a customized painting of your favorite liquor bottles for your home bar or restaurant, a great wedding present or for a family member of your mixed horoscope signs, or handmade hair pieces for a wedding or other special occasion. There will also be a special d...

Congratulations to the San Francisco Giants making it to the World Series against the Detroit Tigers! The excitement starts tomorrow, Wednesday, October 24th at 5 PM in San Francisco. GO GIANTS!!!! Update: 10/28/12 Series is 3-0 Giants. GOOO Giants! Loved the three homers by Panda in Game 1.

It was a SWEET weekend. On my way up to Cotati, California to see a friend to knock stuff off our “Explore Our Own Backyard Bucket List”, I stopped in Oakland, California and explored College Avenue a little more. I have had Katrina Rozelle Dessert & Pastries on my list of vendors for years now. I have yet to have them on my selected vendor list for an event. Perhaps someday soon. I believe I first came across them at one of the many Bridal Fairs where I network, do research and experience or taste vendors’ services first-hand. My cousin who is a corporate Event Planner has also recommended Katrina Rozelle. But it wasn’t until this weekend when I made myself walk an extra block with a bum foot just to get a taste. It’s a small shop with two display cases. I was able to try their Vanilla Almond Cake and their Pumpkin Cake. And for someone who’s not a big fan of pumpkin, that Pumpkin Cake was amazing. I searched through their cases and wanted to bring my friend in Cotati a taste...

The time of year is approaching of when to show appreciation for what you have. I am appreciative of many things in my life such as my family, loved ones and friends. Specifically in regards to my Stella & Dot business,I appreciate my customers and former hostesses. My business would not succeed without them. Like last year's event, I want to do something special for them. Invitations to the October 27th event will be sent out this week. Not a customer or former hostess of mine but want to attend the event? Do #10 or #11 below. On top of the event, I will be conducting a raffle for many prizes that is open to the general public - More prizes to be announced. (Vendors - Contact me to be part of this giveaway.) See below on how to earn entries. PRIZES TOTAL VALUE: $353.00 The Calliah Necklace - Valued at $158.00 Rain Services - Two (2) gift certificates, each for 1 Free Hour of Professional Organizing for home/office/business in Contra Costa, Alameda or SF Counties. G...

Jessica Herrin, CEO & Founder of Stella & Dot as seen in Inc. Magazine I just tuned into a Prospective Stylist Conference Call lead by the one and only, Jessica Herrin. Even as a Stylist of a year and a half, I am constantly finding out new information and feeling re-energized when I tune in. That is one of the great things about being a Stella & Dot Stylist: the constant availability of training and being lead by a leader that is present, approachable and motivating. I would like to be better at that for my team of 8 other Stylists. I joined in a bit late for the call, but Jessica went into the available specials, available training, and answered questions from current and potential Stylists all across the country. AVAILABLE SPECIALS Besides the new, gorgeous Holiday Collection that was unveiled on October 1st, a few new pieces including jewelry, a scarf and wristlets that will benefit the Noreen Fraser Foundation with 100% of proceeds benefitting women cancers, ...

CANCELLED What a bummer. This event is cancelled. BOO! Come out and network with like-minded businessmen and women, in costume, for a night of fun, music, food, booze, candy and win some prizes. I will be one of the costume judges. There are 5 categories: Scariest Most Creative Best Zombie Best Couple Least Amount of Effort We strongly encourage you to bring your partners (wives, husbands, bf/gf, etc), let them in on the fun, give them a chance to truly see it is what you do with a lot of your time! Introduce them to some of your networking buddies! Spread the word!

Today is the first day of the San Francisco 49ers season! The game will be against the Vikings at on home turf, Candlestick Park aka 'The Stick'. Kick off is at 6:00 PM. I had the opportunity to go but I have other responsibilities, however, I will be going to see the September 16th game against the pussycats, aka Lions. I also don't have a television or cable, otherwise I would watch it. It's a possibility sports bars will be a common place to visit on Sundays. For today, as part of the FAITHFUL , I am sporting my Red and Gold . A red tank top with the Renegade Collection - the Necklace ($59), Hoop Earrings ($17.40 on sale!), Cluster Ring ($35.20 on sale!) and Bracelet ($59). Get it at http://www.stelladot.com/Bernadette GO NINERS!

I will be participating in my 12th AIDS Walk San Francisco ( http://aidswalk.net/sanfran ) tomorrow morning, July 15, 2012, with a potential new Stylist and friend. I will be wearing the blue Stella & Dot hat that I just picked up at last weekend's HOOPLA event. If you spot me, come say 'HI', let's exchange info and I'll give you $12 OFF any order placed by August 31, 2012 at http://www.stelladot.com/Bernadette . Get an extra $1 OFF if you 'Like' my Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/StellaDotBernadette . This additional offer is only posted on this blog so kudos to you for reading and redeeming! Why do I walk? I don't know anyone infected with HIV or AIDS. I would like them to REMAIN that way. Please SHARE this post if you think that's a good reason. 2010 AWSF w/ Elphaba & Glinda of SF Wicked See you tomorrow morning!!!

From my dear friend, Christine Zapata, a Chiropractor in the Seattle area is continuing to make a difference in this world. God bless her and I hope she has a successful, safe bike ride. Please consider donating towards her goal. I did! Me, Christine & Christy visiting her in September of 2010 in Seattle, WA Hello Family and Friends, I am participating in a 65 mile bike ride through Woodinville, WA (Washington's wine country) to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. I am part of a team that consists of other doctors in my office, patients and friends. This bike ride is going to be the longest ride I have ever done, so far! I am asking you to help make a difference by simply making a donation of $10, $25, $50 or whatever you can afford for the Aptalis CF Cycle For Life on Sunday, July 29, 2012. If you are interested, please make a check payable to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, or if you would like to use a credit card, just go to my home page at http://www.cff.org/LW...

Come experience the chic boutique, Little Miss Everything , in downtown Brentwood and celebrate motherhood at our annual Celebrate Your Bump Event! This is FREE FAMILY EVENT is for everyone! Family friendly vendors will showcase items, for moms-to-be, new moms, kids, women, men, and children! Face painting and other activities! Free swag bags to first 50 visitors and a chance to win FREE RAFFLE PRIZES!! Little Miss Everything 220 Oak Street Brentwood, CA 94513 I will be there as one of the vendors. I am an Independent Stylist with Stella & Dot . In your swag bag will be a coupon for various amounts off your total order! You can use the coupon the day of thru June 30, 2012. ALSO, book a trunk show at this event that will be held by June 30, 2012 and I'll bring enough wine for 12 of your guests. I hope to see you there! Bring a friend!

Teen dies in crash while transporting stabbing victim in Brentwood by Rick Lemyre Apr 28, 2012 Close friends and complete strangers gather at a memorial at Walnut Boulevard and Balfour Road in Brentwood where a 15-year old girl died early Saturday while helping transport a stabbing victim to the hospital. Photo by Art Michel Authorities have identified a 15-year-old girl killed in a traffic accident early Saturday as Ashley Malone of Oakley. Malone died when the pickup truck she was riding in crashed on the way to the hospital while transporting a victim of a stabbing that might be gang-related, according to police. Brentwood Police Lt. Tom Hansen said a call came in at about 12:15 a.m. Saturday reporting a fight in the vicinity of Balfour Road and Garin Parkway in which three people had been stabbed. Two of the victims transported themselves to local hospitals, while three female friends attempted to drive the third victim to the hospital in a pickup truck. While westbound on ...

LET’S BEAT CANCER! Please join us at the newest consignment shop in Brentwood, Diva on a Dollar (3850 Balfour Rd., Suite N, Brentwood), for a wine tasting event with raffle prizes to raise funds for my 10th Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk. Sunday, May 6, 2012 11:00 am – 4:00 pm WHY : I walk in honor of my aunt, Virginia Saguing, and in memory of my cousin, Natalie Nobida, and a wonderful woman, Maureen Withrow. I have a $3,900 fundraising goal. If I reach that goal, this non-runner and loather of cardio will commit to my first Team in Training event and raise the same amount in 2014 (post 1st baby) in honor of my loving grandfather, Victor Manzano, who has been living with leukemia for years and now has Stage 3 cancer. I want to put a end to cancer! Read more at http://bernadettemanzano.blogspot.com/2012/02/making-strides-2012-towards-team-in.html DETAILS : Wine tasting is $10 per person and you will get to taste at least 6 different wines, if not mo...

"We are so excited and proud to announce that the Stella & Dot Foundation will be ringing the closing bell at the NASDAQ Marketsite on Friday, March 23rd. Your Founder and CEO, Jessica Herrin, Level 5 Get Your Style Groove On Earners and our charity partners (ACCION, Girls Inc. and buildOn) will be ringing the bell to celebrate all of YOUR accomplishments, Stylists. As a company we have created over 12,000 jobs across the globe, raised over $500,000 to date for our Stella & Dot Foundation and are nearing $100 million dollars in Stylist commission payout. Given that this honor is typically reserved for publicly-held companies, we are extremely excited and privileged to be a part of this opportunity." I am so pleased to be a part of Stella & Dot and being part of the solution, not the problem. I have a team of 4 Stylists under me and I love training them, being there for them and watching them Style Their Life! Congratulations to all Stylists out there! In ...

As per my Yelp review below, I just realized that Juanita and Tako Bar Catering was from Brentwood after reading a local person's page on Yelp. It's funny because we both worked a private event in San Francisco yesterday. I'm surprised that the conversation of where were both located didn't come up! Regardless. I definitely recommend their services. How funny that Juanita is also from Brentwood. I arrived at a private party where I was to assist and bartend at in San Francisco. Juanita and her team were cooking away and it smelled fantastic. They made this watermelon and strawberry juice that was amazing! It was a big hit at the party and if you add some vodka or Malibu Rum, it’d add a little something special to it. The party hosts had plenty of wine left over because people just loved this juice! I had a pupusa for the first time. My sister has cravings for it but I have never had it. Theirs were so good, made from scratch and gave you an option of just cheese, ...

Article - Officer Beats Cat Courtesy of Peta An officer was called to assist a cat that was hit by a car. Instead of taking it to a nearby vet hospital, he decides to club it to death. Given the article does not state that he has a veterinary background as well as in public service, but was it his call? He didn't give the cat a chance. Had the officer been hit by a car, he would have been rushed to a hospital. This is just crazy. I would have picked up the cat as gently as possible and rushed it to a nearby hospital. If this was my Bevo, I would rather not have the 'help' of this Officer and take care of my baby myself! This reminds me of a summer day in Pacheco, CA in 2001 I believe. I was leaving my condo for some reason or another. In between upper units, there is an awning and a sky light. I found on my doormat a little bird, slightly breathing. I believe it was struggling to go towards the light and exhausted itself. I am so glad I didn't step on it! I gently...

Tonight, there is an opportunity meeting at Faz Restaurant in Danville, CA at 6 PM. Come by for more information on the company, the products, how much you can earn and meet other Stylists in the area that are working it and Styling their lives! I can't believe I am coming up on my one-year anniversary and I am proud to say that I have a team of 4. They have taken the initiative to change something in their lives for the better whether it is to gain celebrity-adored jewelry at a discount, starting their own business, earn extra income for themselves and their families, to overcome the fear of public speaking or building a tougher exterior every time you get a "No, I don't want to do a trunk show!" I look forward to continuing to motivate them. If you or know someone that is looking to fulfill any of the above goals but cannot make it tonight, please check out this video on Frequently Asked Questions in regards to becoming a Stella & Dot Stylist. Please contact ...

Isn't that a scary quote? As a kid, you get asked what you want to be when you grow up. Not, what three jobs do you want to do when you grow up just to keep your house? How many people do you know that are looking for a job right now? How many people do you know that have a job but are looking for a second, or even third job? I may sound greedy but I hold 6 job titles and one of them consist of jobs for 4 other people: Office Manager, Executive Assistant, Human Resources Manager and Operations Manager. If you wonder why my blog is called "One Busy Bee", well, there you go! Blair Anthony Robertson is The Sacramento Bee's restaurant critic and posts Hot Italian will open a second location in Emeryville . I came across the article thanks to a friend and Emeryville-resident's blog post, Urban Outfitters, Hot Italian Pizzeria coming to E’ville . Hot Italian pizzeria is coming to The Public Market in Emeryville, California this Spring and has attracted 300 applicant...

I am soooo there! A special training sales conference just for Stella & Dot Stylists. I can't wait to be there this July with my team and in the audience for the fashion show unveiling the new 2012 Fall Line. Not only is it cool to be part of that fun experience, we get some great training sessions by Team Leaders and Directors from all over the country, Canada and the UK. I had to miss last year's event because my fiance just lost his job and with not knowing where we were going to be, I had to cancel my ticket. But I followed the #SDHOOPLA conversations on Twitter and I very much wished I could have been there. The fashion show online with pauses due to an internet connection is just not the same. This year, I will be going and cannot wait to do with my team members and take over San Francisco in STYLE! How do you get there? Join my team as a Stylist for $199 and get $350 in free jewelry plus a business in a box where you start earning commission immediately. Sign...

FIGHT Breast Cancer! If you have been following my blog for awhile, you would know that Breast Cancer is something that has personally affected my family and friends. My Auntie Gi is currently in remission. My cousin, Natalie N., was taken from us in 2010 and a friend's mother, Maureen W., passed last year. I wanted to get a head start on fundraising for Team Lagade for the June 16th event in Walnut Creek. Your tax-deductible donation would be greatly appreciated. Your funds will go towards the cost of mammograms for early detection, prevention programs, treatment and support services and to create awareness on how to minimize your chances of diagnosis. Besides eating the so-called magic fruit that fends off carcinogens, I suggest doing all you can to make a life style change and live healthy. I have a personal fundraising goal of: $3,900!!! Currently raised: $105 With every Tribute Bracelet ($36) and Vitality Necklace ($59) I sell thru my Stella & Dot website or y...

Every Bride will have her day when all eyes are on her. So much preparation has been done to have everything on this one day absolutely perfect. For one day, The Catwalk Boutique in Downtown Brentwood (306 Oak Street) invites the Bride-To-Be and her bridal party to meet local, professional wedding vendors, take advantage of their special offers and possibly win some wonderful raffle prizes. Please stop by on Saturday, February 25th from 10 am to 3 pm . We look forward to seeing you there! VENDORS TO SEE: Myself, an Independent Stylist with Stella & Dot Add some style to your wedding, bridal brunch or bachelorette party with celebrity-adored jewelry. Dress and gift your hardworking bridesmaids with some gorgeous to delicate pieces they can wear again, and day-to-night. OFFER: Book a trunk show to earn free jewelry and additional pieces at half off and I will bring the champagne and cupcakes. PRIZE: Soiree Studs (Valued at $24) Tammy Larsen of Almost There Travel Get ...

My blog has been up since May of 2009 and I am proud to say that this month, January 2012, has reached the highest month in hits. Thank you to all that visit often and have posts or alerts sent directly to your email. I appreciate those that have visited by accident, randomly or just came to check out a photo. The current most popular post is about Love Games 2 & Bad Girls Club Season 6 . Should I write more regarding the entertainment industry? As a thank you, if you leave a comment on this post on or by January 31, 2012, I will provide you FREE standard shipping on the below Mister Valentine promo that expires 12 AM, February 7th, 2012. Thanks again and keep coming back now, ya hear! Advertising opportunities are available.

Gentlemen! Do not leave your lady's Valentine's Day gift to the last minute. Shop Stella & Dot 's new 2012 Spring Line and SALE items for that special someone in your life. For your girlfriend, fiance or spouse, consider a personalized charm necklace with your initial, a heart, and her initial on one of our many bases. For instance, it will read "M Maya Brenner or the holiday favorite, our gold plated Chantilly Lace Cuff. The matching earrings are only $49. For the little girl in your life, check out the Allie Ribbon and Pearl necklace and bracelet that is discontinuing and is on SALE! Do you think your lady would rather have something from Tiffany's or a fine leather purse? Our Signature Link Collection (see video below) is simple, classic, classified as fine jewelry and affordable. Our leather handbags are manufactured in the same factories as Coach, Kate Spade & Prada. The Lafayette Crossbody handbag is now 40% off! Say it with me: 'affordabl...

My family is going through some medical issues at the moment. It's been quite a year already. My sweet, wonderful grandfather (aka Lolo, Filipino term for grandfather) already has leukemia. He has gone through chemo and was in the hospital late last year with pneumonia because his doctor failed to keep him up-to-date on his vaccination. I received a voicemail from my grandmother on Thursday saying that my grandfather was in the hospital since Monday. They didn't want to worry the family so we weren't notified sooner. Come to find out that he has cancer and a surgery to remove the mass is a possibility based on the capabilities of his 86-year-old heart and how he'd like to move forward. Eventually he chose to move forward with the surgery and later doctor's confirmed that's it's the only choice he had. I went to visit him as soon as I could. I was happy to see that my sister, father and uncle were already there, alongside my grandmother. It's defi...