I have the greatest husband, truly I do.
For Mother's Day I'm getting another trip back - Yay Me!
Now if the Ikea Gods would kindly have a "Seize the Day" promotion THAT INCLUDED CHARLOTTE this weekend, I would be most pleased. So far they've had 2 "Seize the Day weekend sales but because Charlotte is still generating such high volume they've been excluded.
NOT FAIR I say . . . NOT FAIR at all!
Time to get my wish list back out & updated.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
A week later . . .
and I'm ready to go back!
Due to finances I need to wait. I also want things to settle down a bit . . . give everyone else a chance to get in 1st.
I obviously didn't win a 1,000 dollar shopping spree . . . but congratulations to the people who did (lucky dogs you are!).
I left my extra copy of the 2009 Ikea catalog at work . . . looks like I need to arrange a group outing, everyone who has seen it is hooked - LOL.
Due to finances I need to wait. I also want things to settle down a bit . . . give everyone else a chance to get in 1st.
I obviously didn't win a 1,000 dollar shopping spree . . . but congratulations to the people who did (lucky dogs you are!).
I left my extra copy of the 2009 Ikea catalog at work . . . looks like I need to arrange a group outing, everyone who has seen it is hooked - LOL.
Friday, February 20, 2009
OK . . . Drumroll Please . . .
This picture is complements of the INCREDBLY AWESOME LIFESAVER Ms. Sonya Lopes!Ok . . . so there were still some of you for some reason or another wanted to know what I really look like.
Only the Lord himself knows why!
If you saw this pathetic Ikea refugee at the grand opening . . . you guessed it . . . it was the one & (thank heavens) only ME!
For the rest of you . . . this is what I look like after waiting in the freeeeeeeezing rain for 6 hours with maybe 3 hours of sleep prior to, wearing no makeup and just having an asthma attack . . . the only time I have possibly ever looked worse was after giving birth naturally to a 9 pound baby.
LAUGH IT UP FOLKS!
Just a small disclaimer . . . I was wearing a sweater, a sweatshirt 2 fleece jackets & a Columbia jacket . . . I'm not that beefy . . . I used to be, but not anymore!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
What A Day!
Well . . . it was touch and go.
A long drive, a little drama and some miserable weather but I successfully attended the grand opening of the 1st Ikea in the Carolinas.
My journey didn't even begin until midnight. I boarded the car & headed off to Charlotte. My GPS was spot on accurate and the trip itself was just fine. Once I got there though there was a problem. I'm VERY asthmatic and the cold winds from last night weren't kind to my lungs. By the time I got to my spot at the end of the line I was struggling to breathe let alone set up. The wonderful people ahead of me in line helped me set up my machine & got me to an electrical outlet so I could take an albuterol treatment.
Just as I was feeling good on the machine I felt it . . . the rain drops.
I got right into my tent, blogged for Positive Fanatics then buried myself with the blankets I had brought with me. I must have dozed off for a bit because the next thing you know I could hear a lot of voices outside my tent. I came out and a large line of people had formed beyond me.
I made small talk with the folks adjacent to me . . . all in a good mood despite the weather. The rain hardly let up the entire morning AND it was cold to begin with. Luckily I was smart enough to wear 2 pairs of socks 2 pairs of pants and 4 tops/jackets and my hat/hoodie combo. I stayed relatively comfortable (with the exception of my lungs). Around the actual ceremony I could feel the cold permeating though my shoes & socks into my feet, not fun at all.
As we moved up in line making up for the space left over from the tents being put away I could feel another attack. The awesome girl who saved me earlier got someone from security to escort me to the family restroom and hour before the doors opened. I needed it . . . the guy from security was so nice & came in to check on me. I plan on writing a letter to Richard Castanon thanking him & praising the staff overall.
The Ikea co-workers really did the best they could to keep our spirits up (without coming across as phony). That's is one of the things I love about that store, no pretentiousness, no phonies, no attitudes just people available to help when needed. We were given doughnuts & apple juice, keychains, frisbees, and squshy mini chairs and most importantly rain ponchos in line.
The ceremony took place & at that point folks were getting restless . . . so they opened the doors 15 minutes early . . . let's face it they didn't want to be out there in the cold rain either!
Entering the store we were greeted by co-workers hooting, cheering & hollering. They kept going well into the morning giving 1st day shoppers an enthusiastic greeting. I have to say I kinda felt like a rock star when I went in. I am relieved that they didn't have those dreaded "bang sticks" like I've seen in footage of previous openings. Between the cold & my fatigue I don't think I could my head could have handled it.
I gave the showroom 1 good quick walk through then went right over to the restaurant. I got the regular breakfast and a coffee then sat down at a table that fortunately was next to a wall outlet and by the large window facing the side parking lot. I was able to take another treatment and view the steady stream of people still entering. It was nothing short of amazing.
. . . & that's when it hit me. I started to get a little teary eyed. I've waited a long time for this. To be able to shop at my favorite store without having to wait so long to actually get there. Granted it's still a good 3 1/2 hour drive, not exactly a trip I can do spontaneously but I can still plan a day trip without having to find overnight accommodations. I wish my family could have been there with me & I started missing them.
I trotted down to the market place & picked up a new hamper for daughter #1, a gift for daughter #2's teacher (that she's been dying to give her for months) some new curtain rod sets for my master bedroom and the obligatory 6-pack of cinnamon buns for my husband. In the plant shop they were giving out free baby houseplants to commemorate the grand opening. I picked one out for my friend Kelly as a thank you for taking care of my girls after school.
I roamed through the As-Is department (they have a LOT of stuff right now . . . I wish I'd brought more money and a pickup truck) then checked out.
I got to my van loaded up & started to leave when I realized it was only 10:30!
I had plenty of time to get home . . . but MAN I was EX-HAUST-ED! I was soooo tempted to pull off into a rest area & take a nap, but I just simply needed to get home.
I got home, gave myself a chance to unwind, then slept . . . but even right now I'm SOOOOOO tired.
I'm looking forward to a full night back in my warm, safe, comfy, dry bed!
That's about it . . . I will be continuing the blog . . . my work is far from done. I'm still shooting for at least one more store closer to home. I will keep posting any store opening updates and future trips, wish lists and sales as they come along.
WELCOME TO CAROLINA, IKEA!!!
IT'S ABOUT TIME!!!
A long drive, a little drama and some miserable weather but I successfully attended the grand opening of the 1st Ikea in the Carolinas.
My journey didn't even begin until midnight. I boarded the car & headed off to Charlotte. My GPS was spot on accurate and the trip itself was just fine. Once I got there though there was a problem. I'm VERY asthmatic and the cold winds from last night weren't kind to my lungs. By the time I got to my spot at the end of the line I was struggling to breathe let alone set up. The wonderful people ahead of me in line helped me set up my machine & got me to an electrical outlet so I could take an albuterol treatment.
Just as I was feeling good on the machine I felt it . . . the rain drops.
I got right into my tent, blogged for Positive Fanatics then buried myself with the blankets I had brought with me. I must have dozed off for a bit because the next thing you know I could hear a lot of voices outside my tent. I came out and a large line of people had formed beyond me.
I made small talk with the folks adjacent to me . . . all in a good mood despite the weather. The rain hardly let up the entire morning AND it was cold to begin with. Luckily I was smart enough to wear 2 pairs of socks 2 pairs of pants and 4 tops/jackets and my hat/hoodie combo. I stayed relatively comfortable (with the exception of my lungs). Around the actual ceremony I could feel the cold permeating though my shoes & socks into my feet, not fun at all.
As we moved up in line making up for the space left over from the tents being put away I could feel another attack. The awesome girl who saved me earlier got someone from security to escort me to the family restroom and hour before the doors opened. I needed it . . . the guy from security was so nice & came in to check on me. I plan on writing a letter to Richard Castanon thanking him & praising the staff overall.
The Ikea co-workers really did the best they could to keep our spirits up (without coming across as phony). That's is one of the things I love about that store, no pretentiousness, no phonies, no attitudes just people available to help when needed. We were given doughnuts & apple juice, keychains, frisbees, and squshy mini chairs and most importantly rain ponchos in line.
The ceremony took place & at that point folks were getting restless . . . so they opened the doors 15 minutes early . . . let's face it they didn't want to be out there in the cold rain either!
Entering the store we were greeted by co-workers hooting, cheering & hollering. They kept going well into the morning giving 1st day shoppers an enthusiastic greeting. I have to say I kinda felt like a rock star when I went in. I am relieved that they didn't have those dreaded "bang sticks" like I've seen in footage of previous openings. Between the cold & my fatigue I don't think I could my head could have handled it.
I gave the showroom 1 good quick walk through then went right over to the restaurant. I got the regular breakfast and a coffee then sat down at a table that fortunately was next to a wall outlet and by the large window facing the side parking lot. I was able to take another treatment and view the steady stream of people still entering. It was nothing short of amazing.
. . . & that's when it hit me. I started to get a little teary eyed. I've waited a long time for this. To be able to shop at my favorite store without having to wait so long to actually get there. Granted it's still a good 3 1/2 hour drive, not exactly a trip I can do spontaneously but I can still plan a day trip without having to find overnight accommodations. I wish my family could have been there with me & I started missing them.
I trotted down to the market place & picked up a new hamper for daughter #1, a gift for daughter #2's teacher (that she's been dying to give her for months) some new curtain rod sets for my master bedroom and the obligatory 6-pack of cinnamon buns for my husband. In the plant shop they were giving out free baby houseplants to commemorate the grand opening. I picked one out for my friend Kelly as a thank you for taking care of my girls after school.
I roamed through the As-Is department (they have a LOT of stuff right now . . . I wish I'd brought more money and a pickup truck) then checked out.
I got to my van loaded up & started to leave when I realized it was only 10:30!
I had plenty of time to get home . . . but MAN I was EX-HAUST-ED! I was soooo tempted to pull off into a rest area & take a nap, but I just simply needed to get home.
I got home, gave myself a chance to unwind, then slept . . . but even right now I'm SOOOOOO tired.
I'm looking forward to a full night back in my warm, safe, comfy, dry bed!
That's about it . . . I will be continuing the blog . . . my work is far from done. I'm still shooting for at least one more store closer to home. I will keep posting any store opening updates and future trips, wish lists and sales as they come along.
WELCOME TO CAROLINA, IKEA!!!
IT'S ABOUT TIME!!!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
This Will Be My Last Entry . . .
. . .until after the store opens!
I will be posting updates at
PositiveFanatics.com as one of their guest bloggers for the Charlotte grand opening.
Thank you Susan for the opportunity!
This morning I've got to get going with sending the kiddos off to school, then it's straight into getting the van ready, my things packed up and charging all my electronic necessities.
Again, I cannot emphasize this enough, I hope everyone has a safe trip and a good time.
I will continue to blog about my Ikea outings, store updates, other store openings etc.
. . . maybe just maybe the Ikea gods will see fit to open a store even closer to my home. I know it's not "likely" but I learned a long time ago that one should never give up hope . . . nothing is ever impossible unless you give up completely.
Thank you for reading!
Vi ses imorgon! . . . that means "see you tomorrow" in Swedish
I will be posting updates at
PositiveFanatics.com as one of their guest bloggers for the Charlotte grand opening.
Thank you Susan for the opportunity!
This morning I've got to get going with sending the kiddos off to school, then it's straight into getting the van ready, my things packed up and charging all my electronic necessities.
Again, I cannot emphasize this enough, I hope everyone has a safe trip and a good time.
I will continue to blog about my Ikea outings, store updates, other store openings etc.
. . . maybe just maybe the Ikea gods will see fit to open a store even closer to my home. I know it's not "likely" but I learned a long time ago that one should never give up hope . . . nothing is ever impossible unless you give up completely.
Thank you for reading!
Vi ses imorgon! . . . that means "see you tomorrow" in Swedish
Monday, February 16, 2009
Only 48 Hours To Go!
It's gone from years . . .
to months . . .
to weeks . . .
and in a blink of an eye we are down to hours people.
HOURS!
Again I cannot emphasize that I want everyone to have a safe journey whether you are driving 4 minutes or 4 hours to get there. Ikea crowds are normally the chillest you'll ever see. Everyone's just looking for the same thing . . . a good value for their home. Given that the store is brand-new stock will be at it's optimal so I doubt there will be a need for anyone to fight over the last "this-&-that."
What WILL stink is the fact that in time to come there will be stock shortages & the only recourse will be a drive to Altlanta or Woodbridge . . . if they see my way of thinking then another store could be built a bit closer . . . say Raleigh, NC . . . Columbia, SC . . . Florence, SC or . . . MYRTLE BEACH, SOUTH CAROLINA!
I'm only saying.
It's a convenience factor . . .
ya know!
T-Minus 48 hours people . . . and counting!
to months . . .
to weeks . . .
and in a blink of an eye we are down to hours people.
HOURS!
Again I cannot emphasize that I want everyone to have a safe journey whether you are driving 4 minutes or 4 hours to get there. Ikea crowds are normally the chillest you'll ever see. Everyone's just looking for the same thing . . . a good value for their home. Given that the store is brand-new stock will be at it's optimal so I doubt there will be a need for anyone to fight over the last "this-&-that."
What WILL stink is the fact that in time to come there will be stock shortages & the only recourse will be a drive to Altlanta or Woodbridge . . . if they see my way of thinking then another store could be built a bit closer . . . say Raleigh, NC . . . Columbia, SC . . . Florence, SC or . . . MYRTLE BEACH, SOUTH CAROLINA!
I'm only saying.
It's a convenience factor . . .
ya know!
T-Minus 48 hours people . . . and counting!
Sunday, February 15, 2009
3 Days To Go BAY-BEE!
My Wednesday babysitter is confirmed (thank you Kelly . . . I will share my spoils with you).
D is getting his work schedule squared away . . . I am so happy!
I'm so excited to get this thing going!
The GPS is even programmed on my phone. Hey, here is a tip for those of you who who need to use a GPS to get there. The address is new (for example Mapquest doesn't list it yet , my Verizon VZ navigation software doesn't know the address either . . . but Google Maps does) so if whatever system you used doesn't know where the Ikea in Charlotte is simply program your destination as the intersection of I-85 & City Boulevard. I hope this gets you there quickly and safely.
Here's to good weather a safe journey to all and ample parking, deals and fun!
D is getting his work schedule squared away . . . I am so happy!
I'm so excited to get this thing going!
The GPS is even programmed on my phone. Hey, here is a tip for those of you who who need to use a GPS to get there. The address is new (for example Mapquest doesn't list it yet , my Verizon VZ navigation software doesn't know the address either . . . but Google Maps does) so if whatever system you used doesn't know where the Ikea in Charlotte is simply program your destination as the intersection of I-85 & City Boulevard. I hope this gets you there quickly and safely.
Here's to good weather a safe journey to all and ample parking, deals and fun!
Friday, February 13, 2009
5 Days To Go!
Well I've had another interview about things this week. I think I have all of my loose ends tied up - I just need a few more official confirmations.
I'm almost-sorta-kinda-sorta all set to go.
It also appears that the Charlotte Ikea is all dressed up & ready to go as well.
I will be SQUEALING like a little girl when I pull up to this place.
Can I bum a ride on that cart dude?
WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!
Do you think they'll ban me if I plant a big wet one on the side of Joe Roth's cheek?
Just askin'
I'm almost-sorta-kinda-sorta all set to go.
It also appears that the Charlotte Ikea is all dressed up & ready to go as well.
I will be SQUEALING like a little girl when I pull up to this place.
Can I bum a ride on that cart dude?
WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!
Do you think they'll ban me if I plant a big wet one on the side of Joe Roth's cheek?
Just askin'
Thursday, February 12, 2009
6 Days and Counting: Wow . . . it's really kicking in!
In just the last 24 hours I've had 2 interviews from the press and quite a few emails all from this blog . . .
here's a secret . . .
I really didn't think anyone was reading!
I still need to work out my personal kinks . . . it's really gonna suck if I can't go. I'm not even trying to think about the possibility.
So to those of you sending positive thoughts, thank you!
For those of you withing a reasonable distance to a store already open Ikea is offering yet another yummy Seize the Day sale this weekend. Malm -3 drawer dressers for 40 bucks . . . JEEZ! Why couldn't they have waited until next weekend that way Charlotte could have joined in on the fun?
UGH . . . I swear they're doing this to tease me . . .
Joe Roth, are you just doing this to torture me?
LOL
I swear when I see him next week he's SO gonna get a finger-shaking from me!
LOL . . . ok you know I'm only kidding Mr. Roth . . . you know I love your work . . . now lets get some people over to Myrtle to scope out a new store site. (wink-wink)
here's a secret . . .
I really didn't think anyone was reading!
I still need to work out my personal kinks . . . it's really gonna suck if I can't go. I'm not even trying to think about the possibility.
So to those of you sending positive thoughts, thank you!
For those of you withing a reasonable distance to a store already open Ikea is offering yet another yummy Seize the Day sale this weekend. Malm -3 drawer dressers for 40 bucks . . . JEEZ! Why couldn't they have waited until next weekend that way Charlotte could have joined in on the fun?
UGH . . . I swear they're doing this to tease me . . .
Joe Roth, are you just doing this to torture me?
LOL
I swear when I see him next week he's SO gonna get a finger-shaking from me!
LOL . . . ok you know I'm only kidding Mr. Roth . . . you know I love your work . . . now lets get some people over to Myrtle to scope out a new store site. (wink-wink)
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Ok . . . it's the 11th . . . Part II
well . . . they must've known I was blogging . . . I just got the email
LMAO!!!!!!
And PLEASE keep me in your thoughts . . . and hope I can get there next week . . . if I don't then . . . well . . . the last 2 years of my blog will end on a bad note.
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE send me your positive thoughts!
LMAO!!!!!!
And PLEASE keep me in your thoughts . . . and hope I can get there next week . . . if I don't then . . . well . . . the last 2 years of my blog will end on a bad note.
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE send me your positive thoughts!
Free POÄNG chair — The first 100 adults (18+) in line Wednesday at 9 am get a FREE armchair.
Gold Envelopes — The first 2,500 adults (18+) in line at 9 am get an envelope with random vouchers for prizes such as IKEA Gift Cards ($0.50 to $250) or "Buy One, Get One Free" hot dog, cinnamon bun, or frozen yogurt treat.
Free FAMNIG cushion — The first 100 children (under 18) in line will receive a free FAMNIG HJÄRTA cushion.
Our birthday/Your birthday — Visitors with proof that they share our store's birthday, February 18, will receive a $10 IKEA Gift Card.
OK . . . it's the 11th
Still no "official" press release on the Grand Opening giveaway yet . . . but I did get word from a lil' birdie that a Poang armchair will be given to the 1st 100 people in line. I don't really need one . . . BUT I'LL TAKE IT!
Of course they are also giving away the usual giftcards to the 1st 2,500 customers that come in . . . that's par for the course. I wonder what I'll get? I'll be thankful to just get there to be honest . . . I've hit a major snafu in my travel plans . . . it's personal & I'm still trying to sort things out.
Usually they announce any entertainment scheduled . . . Ikea is big on entertainers in the store, even on non-Grand Opening days. My kids have had several face paintings in the past, not to mention seen steel drum bands, choral groups . . . you name it.
For any of you reading . . . please send me some good vibes . . . I'm due for a healthy shot of karma. I've been a good girl this year & this is all I've been waiting for.
Of course they are also giving away the usual giftcards to the 1st 2,500 customers that come in . . . that's par for the course. I wonder what I'll get? I'll be thankful to just get there to be honest . . . I've hit a major snafu in my travel plans . . . it's personal & I'm still trying to sort things out.
Usually they announce any entertainment scheduled . . . Ikea is big on entertainers in the store, even on non-Grand Opening days. My kids have had several face paintings in the past, not to mention seen steel drum bands, choral groups . . . you name it.
For any of you reading . . . please send me some good vibes . . . I'm due for a healthy shot of karma. I've been a good girl this year & this is all I've been waiting for.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
This time next week . . .
. . . if I'm not already there . . . I will be packing up the car, giving my final instructions to the family & headed off to Charlotte!
YAY!
YAY!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
15 Days to Go . . . I Swear I had NOTHING to do with this!
http://www.wsoctv.com/news/18621311/detail.html#-Tractor Trailer Interrupts Ikea Entrance Ribbon Cutting
Monday, February 2, 2009
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The next step in Charlotte's Ikea store history took place Monday morning.There was a ribbon-cutting ceremony for phase one of the Ikea entrance. The entrance will temporarily allow drivers to make a right in or out from University City Boulevard to North Tryon Street.An intersection will be built during phase two.The ribbon-cutting Monday did not go exactly as planned, however. A tractor trailer driver did not realize the road was not open and barreled through the ribbon. Fortunately, no one was in the road at the time so no one was injured. Video of the incident is attached to this story.
I do not know how to drive a rig!
I can't even drive stick shift!
I don't even know anyone with a tractor trailer on this side of the country!
I did not . . . REPEAT . . . I did not crash through the ribbon cutting ceremony Union City Boulevard this morning!
I wasn't even in Charlotte today . . . I have an alibi!!!
Monday, February 2, 2009
Welcome Aboard Positive Fanatics!
Positive Fanatics - The Unofficial IKEA Web Journal
This just in . . .
I've been asked (oh . . . who am I kidding . . . I offered my services) to guest blog for Positive Fanatics during the Grand Opening!
Yeah . . . I'm almost sorta-kinda-sorta-famous among a cult following.
SCORE!
Ha-ha-ha-ha!
Anyways, this is a welcome to anyone from P.F. who stumbles across my blog. Please come in, have a seat on my Poang and help yourself to a glass of lingonberry juice . . . just don't put your feet up on my Lack coffee table!
My entries are part tongue-in cheek, part passion and part boredom. So bear with me. Enjoy the humor or scoff at my desperation . . . either way is fine by me. I'm honored to guest blog & hope I don't screw things up. So thanks for your time & I'm looking forward to the fun and excitement that comes with an Ikea Opening.
16 Days to Go . . . They're TEASING!!!
A new link appeared this morning. I KNEW they couldn't resist a few more trickles of info prior to the official itinerary announcement next week.
I like the little countdown clock . . . it makes me feel warm & fuzzy inside!
I found one through blogspot I can customize . . . too bad I couldn't change the colors though.
Don't forget to try your shot at the "Fill a Blue Bag" Contest . . . break out your cell phones. I gave it a shot this morning but I never got the follow-up text messages.
Also there is a form you can fill out & print online that could win you a $1,000.00 Ikea Gift Card (I'll do that one when I get to my printer at work).
I, personally, am waiting for the Big Kahuna . . . Opening Day announcements. According to the website link that information will be made available on February 11th. That's no big shocker . . . they always wait a week in advance for that. People can speculate all they want. I prefer the official word. It makes the difference between my leaving on Monday or Tuesday.
More than likely I will trek my way to Charlotte as soon as the girls are taken to school on Tuesday morning. Unless there is really something I can't resist you won't see me there until then, but who knows.
. . . actually Ikea knows . . . they're just not saying anything until February 11th!
I like the little countdown clock . . . it makes me feel warm & fuzzy inside!
I found one through blogspot I can customize . . . too bad I couldn't change the colors though.
Don't forget to try your shot at the "Fill a Blue Bag" Contest . . . break out your cell phones. I gave it a shot this morning but I never got the follow-up text messages.
Also there is a form you can fill out & print online that could win you a $1,000.00 Ikea Gift Card (I'll do that one when I get to my printer at work).
I, personally, am waiting for the Big Kahuna . . . Opening Day announcements. According to the website link that information will be made available on February 11th. That's no big shocker . . . they always wait a week in advance for that. People can speculate all they want. I prefer the official word. It makes the difference between my leaving on Monday or Tuesday.
More than likely I will trek my way to Charlotte as soon as the girls are taken to school on Tuesday morning. Unless there is really something I can't resist you won't see me there until then, but who knows.
. . . actually Ikea knows . . . they're just not saying anything until February 11th!
Sunday, February 1, 2009
17 Days to Go: Taking Inventory
This morning I pulled out my stuff & went though things I can take with me to make waiting in line a bit more pleasant. The pop-up tent is designed for children, but considering I am the size of your average 12 year old I think I'll be fine. I got inside & did a little "sleep test" with no problem. I sleep in the fetal position anyway!
This is what it looks like . . . don't laugh . . . I do fit inside!
AAAAAAnd it folds up into a 15 inch wide disk . . . so it won't get in the way of any of my purchases on the ride home!
I totally forgot I also have 2 brand new folding beach chairs . . . so I have a place to park my butt on the concrete . . . SCORE!
I have 2 packs of hand-warmers in case it gets cold (Charlotte is chillier than Myrtle). I also have snow pants, a Columbia 3-in-1 jacket and many blankets & pillows I can bring as well. It's going to be in the middle of February, granted I was expecting a March/April camp out but I can tolerate 1 night in the cold knowing I get there earlier than expected. Pray for an unusually warm week in Charlotte . . . it can happen.
In case they do allow us to plug into the building I do have my outdoor extension cord ready, it will help keep my laptop, cellphone & asthma nebulizer powered. The nebulizer also has a car adapter & battery pack so I'm not worried.
I don't have an inflatable mattress (BUMMER) nor do I have a sleeping bag (BIG BUMMER) . . . but I'm still going to try to borrow one or butter up D to get me one. I'd much rather borrow, I don't want anything biting into my shopping budget!
Speaking of shopping budget . . . I'm already working on my shopping list. Granted, I still don't know what my final budget will be, but I am coming up with several scenarios. It feels SO good to know it's only about 2 weeks . . . I guess that's why I'm been in a good mood. My mood will probably take a nose dive when the hubby slashes my budget. I smell a battle brewing!
This is what it looks like . . . don't laugh . . . I do fit inside!AAAAAAnd it folds up into a 15 inch wide disk . . . so it won't get in the way of any of my purchases on the ride home!
I totally forgot I also have 2 brand new folding beach chairs . . . so I have a place to park my butt on the concrete . . . SCORE!
I have 2 packs of hand-warmers in case it gets cold (Charlotte is chillier than Myrtle). I also have snow pants, a Columbia 3-in-1 jacket and many blankets & pillows I can bring as well. It's going to be in the middle of February, granted I was expecting a March/April camp out but I can tolerate 1 night in the cold knowing I get there earlier than expected. Pray for an unusually warm week in Charlotte . . . it can happen.
In case they do allow us to plug into the building I do have my outdoor extension cord ready, it will help keep my laptop, cellphone & asthma nebulizer powered. The nebulizer also has a car adapter & battery pack so I'm not worried.
I don't have an inflatable mattress (BUMMER) nor do I have a sleeping bag (BIG BUMMER) . . . but I'm still going to try to borrow one or butter up D to get me one. I'd much rather borrow, I don't want anything biting into my shopping budget!
Speaking of shopping budget . . . I'm already working on my shopping list. Granted, I still don't know what my final budget will be, but I am coming up with several scenarios. It feels SO good to know it's only about 2 weeks . . . I guess that's why I'm been in a good mood. My mood will probably take a nose dive when the hubby slashes my budget. I smell a battle brewing!
Friday, January 30, 2009
19 Days & Counting - Announcements Coming Soon!
It looks like the official website for the store has changed this afternoon as they have replaced the generic logo with this picture of the building in it's latter stages of construction. Coming from experience this usually means they are getting ready to announce what the actual schedule of events will be on February 18th. Note: the store's phone number has been released!
Rumors have been spreading along several blogs & forums concerning what events, prizes and specials will be made available for the IKEA Charlotte Grand Opening.
Frankly, I could care less if all they were having was a couple of balloons and they were giving away bags of dog poop - I'm gonna be there with bells on!
Anything else is just a bonus to me and I will take anything I get with sincere gratitude (sans actual dog poop - I have enough of that already).
As far as what they give away, if anything, I will make the absolute most of it. Don't get me wrong, a new couch (like they gave away at Red Hook) would be sweet, but the economy is a different beast than it was a mere 7 months ago.
Not to be mean . . . but I think I'd actually like to see them not give away too much. The values there cannot be beat, even by the local furniture wholesale stores. The "Wal-Mart crowd" will be shocked as to how much better priced the goods are in The Marketplace.
Given the state of things I suspect a lot of people will show up only for the lure of free items. Let them come, let them be converted! Just leave some stuff for ME!
LOL!
But here's to the madness that is an IKEA Grand Opening, it will be my 1st & hopefully not my last. . . that's a hint Joe . . .
Yes, Joseph Roth, I'm talking directly to you . . . MYRTLE BEACH . . . MYRTLE BEACH . . . MYRTLE BEACH!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
OK, Maybe It Won't Be So Bad.
Thank God for tax refunds . . . Momma's probably going to go to IKEA afterall!
We filed this morning & should see our refund in 10 days . . . YAY!
And my BFF is going to try & stop out to the College Park store for my duvet cover set on Saturday . . . I LOVE YOU BETSY! Even if she can't make it or they sell out, she's willing to give it a shot & that's what I love about her.
I broke a bookshelf yesterday (no, not an IKEA one but one I was planning on getting rid of anyway). I was running the vacuum cleaner & ran by it a little too hard on an already weak spot & BOOM . . . it fell apart. Luckily nothing valuable on it was damaged (it only held books).
So . . . I'm adding a Billy bookshelf to my already growing list.
We filed this morning & should see our refund in 10 days . . . YAY!
And my BFF is going to try & stop out to the College Park store for my duvet cover set on Saturday . . . I LOVE YOU BETSY! Even if she can't make it or they sell out, she's willing to give it a shot & that's what I love about her.
I broke a bookshelf yesterday (no, not an IKEA one but one I was planning on getting rid of anyway). I was running the vacuum cleaner & ran by it a little too hard on an already weak spot & BOOM . . . it fell apart. Luckily nothing valuable on it was damaged (it only held books).
So . . . I'm adding a Billy bookshelf to my already growing list.
Monday, January 26, 2009
It's Just Not Fair!
We have yet another Seize the Day special going on this weekend at IKEA and they're selling off my BELOVED Tanja Brodyr comforters!
I've been lusting after the purple one in queen sized since the day I laid eyes on it . . . and everytime I visited a store I never picked one up because of one reason or another. I assumed (like an idiot) that I would just be able to pick one up once the Charlotte store opened (in less than a MONTH!). Now I have to dreadfully assume they are getting rid of them all!
WAAAAAAAAAAH!!!
This is TOTALLY unfair!
I've had NO luck lately.
OH . . . and to top it off my hubby says we may not be able to let me go to Charlotte next month due to financial reasons.
THE HELL I WON'T!
Grandma still owes me Christmas money!
I get a check + a 50 dollar commission next month.
OH . . . I AM GOING . . . YOU'D BEST BELIEVE THAT!
Even if I buy nothing except from what I might get from a free gift card I AM GOING!
I think he forgets how evil I can be when I don't get my way.
If he continues to mess with me he just might find out!
I've been lusting after the purple one in queen sized since the day I laid eyes on it . . . and everytime I visited a store I never picked one up because of one reason or another. I assumed (like an idiot) that I would just be able to pick one up once the Charlotte store opened (in less than a MONTH!). Now I have to dreadfully assume they are getting rid of them all!
WAAAAAAAAAAH!!!
This is TOTALLY unfair!I've had NO luck lately.
OH . . . and to top it off my hubby says we may not be able to let me go to Charlotte next month due to financial reasons.
THE HELL I WON'T!
Grandma still owes me Christmas money!
I get a check + a 50 dollar commission next month.
OH . . . I AM GOING . . . YOU'D BEST BELIEVE THAT!
Even if I buy nothing except from what I might get from a free gift card I AM GOING!
I think he forgets how evil I can be when I don't get my way.
If he continues to mess with me he just might find out!
Friday, January 16, 2009
More 'Gettin' Ready' Pics!
Courtesy of the Charlotte Business Journal
It's a thing a beauty!
Speaking of the grand opening . . . the hubby and I went browsing around this morning while the kids were at school & stopped by the new Coleman camping store in town. I saw a cute pink sleeping bag that I'd love to get for the camp out . . . but he didn't bite. BUMMER!
Well at least I have the pop-up tent, flashlight, blankets, hand warmers and stuborness to get me through the night. Ha-ha-ha . . . I feel like Steve Martin at the end of "The Jerk" when he says all he needs is his ashtray, ping-pong game, remote control, lamp, chair,thermos and matches . . . yeah that'll be me in line at IKEA!
Just picture the same sad human being only as a 5'3" blonde in a pink robe & significantly less hairy.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Knock Me Over With a Feather!
IKEA will be a part of the fabric of Charlotte North Carolina in a matter of weeks . . . not months but weeks, and now pictures are being released showing an influx of merchandise being brought into the store and the assembly of showroom goods by the ever busy-bee IKEAn workers. Forget Christmas . . . THIS is the most wonderful time of the year!
Click here to see the slide show courtesy of the Charlotte Observer
God, I'm so jealous . . . do you realize people actually get PAID to put together IKEA furniture AND coordinate IKEA rooms? That is my DREAM JOB people! If they put a store in Myrtle Beach not only would I be the 1st person in line but I'd tell them to just go ahead & put 1/2 of my pay in an account to cover my purchases. They theoretically wouldn't even have to pay me just let me totally deck out my house in IKEA then I could be a living billboard for them . . .
Oh . . . and I have another "hack" challenge on my hands . . . whilst I was visiting in Maryland over the holidays I sweet-talked the hubby (thank heavens we had the truck with us) into going to the College Park store with me. The As-Is Department had queen sized Noresund bed frames for 40 flippin' dollars! There was a catch . . . no side rails . . . so the hubby is going to see about mounting the headboard & footboard on a pre-existing bedframe. The bed looks totally gourgeous in the room when I lay the head & footboards against it. Please pray that we can get it to work . . . it was a 40 dollar gamble I'm willing to take.
Click here to see the slide show courtesy of the Charlotte Observer
God, I'm so jealous . . . do you realize people actually get PAID to put together IKEA furniture AND coordinate IKEA rooms? That is my DREAM JOB people! If they put a store in Myrtle Beach not only would I be the 1st person in line but I'd tell them to just go ahead & put 1/2 of my pay in an account to cover my purchases. They theoretically wouldn't even have to pay me just let me totally deck out my house in IKEA then I could be a living billboard for them . . .
JOE ROTH, ARE YOU READING THIS???
WE COULD SERIOUSLY WORK OUT A DEAL HERE!!!
WE COULD SERIOUSLY WORK OUT A DEAL HERE!!!
Oh . . . and I have another "hack" challenge on my hands . . . whilst I was visiting in Maryland over the holidays I sweet-talked the hubby (thank heavens we had the truck with us) into going to the College Park store with me. The As-Is Department had queen sized Noresund bed frames for 40 flippin' dollars! There was a catch . . . no side rails . . . so the hubby is going to see about mounting the headboard & footboard on a pre-existing bedframe. The bed looks totally gourgeous in the room when I lay the head & footboards against it. Please pray that we can get it to work . . . it was a 40 dollar gamble I'm willing to take.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Gear Up!
I was a good girl for Christmas this year . . . no, I didn't get a 5-thousand dollar IKEA giftcard (I wasn't THAT good) but I did get a few things to help me out during my camp-out for the Grand Opening.
I got one of those "Snuggly" blankets that you wear like a robe . . . PERFECT. It's sooooooo warm! It got me through these 2 weeks of AWFUL freezing nights in MD.
We got 2 hand-crank powered flashlights . . . awesome!
My daughter got a pop-up tent . . . and . . . get this . . . it's BLUE AND YELLOW!
HOW FUNNY IS THAT!?!?
(Yes, she said I can borrow it. Thank you sweetheart!)
I have a cooler, I have a boom-box and ipod. Now I just need to tie up my loose ends & score some private lessons this month and I'm all set!
C'mon tax refund!
I got one of those "Snuggly" blankets that you wear like a robe . . . PERFECT. It's sooooooo warm! It got me through these 2 weeks of AWFUL freezing nights in MD.
We got 2 hand-crank powered flashlights . . . awesome!
My daughter got a pop-up tent . . . and . . . get this . . . it's BLUE AND YELLOW!
HOW FUNNY IS THAT!?!?
(Yes, she said I can borrow it. Thank you sweetheart!)
I have a cooler, I have a boom-box and ipod. Now I just need to tie up my loose ends & score some private lessons this month and I'm all set!
C'mon tax refund!
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