Life as I experience it

Can't believe it has been over 2 months...

2009-09-06T15:54:00.000-07:00

since I last posted. Summer school has come and gone and we already have 9 student days in for the new school year.

In early July my husband and I had a bit of a mishap on the scooter. I had a sprained wrist, a bruised shoulder, and road rash. He had bruising, road rash, and 5 broken ribs. We did manage to go on vacation to Atlanta to see family there. My uncle had back surgery in July and was having difficulty recovering and ended up having more surgery. He is no longer on pain meds, but all the surgery has taken a toll and recovery has been an uphill climb for both my aunt and uncle. He is doing a bit better, but has a ways to go. On the way home we stopped at Natural Bridge in Virginia. We go past all of these landmarks/historic sites every year and I keep saying that we are going to stop but we never did. Since we left Atlanta earlier than I would have liked since my husband was still have trouble finding a comfortable position for sleeping, I suggested we find someplace to stop and that is the place we decided upon. It was worth the time. We got some, but not as many pictures as I would have liked because I forgot to take the charger and spare battery for the camera.

This Tuesday is the annual picnic for my weight loss support group. Part of the program is Drop Your Drawers. Those who have lost weight come in a before outfit over their new clothing and then reveal their transformation. In a weak moment, I agreed to do this. I had to submit before and after photos. Here are the ones I submitted. The first one was 2 weeks before my first visit with the dietician. I don't remember the date of the second one. The third one was at my daughter's wedding on 5/16/09. The last 2 were taken on 8/30/09. Unfortunately I can't get them in the positions I want them in. Oh well.

I am so sick of rain

2009-06-20T14:16:00.000-07:00

We have had so much rain and dreary weather I could scream. It is June and I want warmer weather and sunshine. I have lots of new summer clothes I want to wear. I admit it does feel strange seeing my sister wear clothes that I wore last summer, although she did have some of the same items in a larger size. Of course her goal is to have all new clothes next summer. Since I am pretty much where I think I will end up, she won't be getting too much more from me.

A lot has happened since I last wrote

2009-06-18T18:26:00.000-07:00

The wedding went quite well. There were a few glitches, but that was to be expected. The weather was good. even though rain was predicted it held off until the reception was over. Our son-in-law learned that he needs to leave a set of car keys home. They had to come home a day early because we couldn't move his car for street sweeping. We are still waiting for the proofs from the photographer. I hope they are online by the end of next week.

We had company from British Columbia for the wedding. While she was here we did some tourist things including Boyd's Bear Country. We also went out to eat almost every evening.

School is over for the summer, at least until summer school begins. I was pleased that I had all my work done and could leave as soon as we were dismissed. I do need to go in to water my plants though.

Becky's was in an accident on June 3. A woman up the street ran a stop sign at the end of the alley. Her car was totalled. I must say that Progressive, in spite of commercials I personally find annoying, gives good service. Their adjuster was here the day after and waited for her to come home to sign the title and he cut her a check at that time. the car was picked up the next day. Becky ended up buying a new car, a Pontiac G3. She is now in debt for 6 years. She had some problems since she had changed her name some places and not others. Keith's car needed over $1300 worht of work and his car was worth only $100. He bought a used car, a Pontiac Grand Am.

This past Monday and Tuesday I attended a 2 day conference for school. They were 2 long days, but I'll be glad come August and there will be 2 days I don't have to work. On Wednesday, someone Ken knows from his message board and her husband came for the day. We took them to Gettysburg and Hershey, even though the weather did not cooperate.

Tonight was support group for gastric bypass. My friend Linda rode with me. It was nice to have company for the ride. They had the body analyzer scale there. I had mine done and was pleased. Kathy did not go because her knee was giving her trouble.

We have had so much rain lately. Even so, we have managed to get some time on the scooter.

The wedding is less than 2 weeks away!

2009-05-03T18:23:00.000-07:00

As mother-of-the-bride, I am in stress mode. I have the bridesmaids' jewelry finished and all I need to do for my daughter's jewelry is attach earhooks to a pair of earings. I have started jewelry for me but need a sunny day to check to see if the colors go well before I finish.

Weight loss has slowed even more. Only 2 pounds this month.

Last Sunday was bittersweet. The church where I've been a member for 29 years closed. We voted to close in January and had several votes to confirm that decision, but last Sunday was the final service there and it was very hard not to completely break down, but I held it together pretty well until the end of the part of the service that was held in what is now our former church. for some reason I get very emothional when we sing the hymn "Borning Cry" and that is when I had trouble. We went to the new church (the one we merged with) today. We will be received a members ther on May 17. It is a little strange since this was the church I left 29 years ago when we moved, but in many ways it is not the same church. I guess time will tell. So far everyone seems very friendly.

Saturday one of my aunts and cousin came for a visit. I haven't seen this particular aunt in several years so I was very glad she was able to come. She is leaving for Spain this week so she won't be at the wedding.

Just to keep things interesting I broke out in a very bad case of hives that itched like crazy that required a late night trip to the pharmacy for Benadryl. Thank heaven it worked.

This week will be another busy one. I have several appointments plus some shopping to get done. At school we have a field trip, assuming it does not rain on Tuesday or Wednesday. There is also all of the end-of-the-year stuff that needs doing.

Need to get with the program

2009-04-02T19:46:00.000-07:00

It seems like I have forgotton about my poor blog. I'll try to get here and post more frequently. My daughter's bridal shower was last Saturday at her future mother-in-law's home. I finished one bracelet and one necklace for the girls to try on before making all of them. It seems that I will need one more strand of small lavendar pearls and possible more ivory pearls to complete everything. I'm still working on my daughter's jewelry. I'd like to make mine as well and I still have a little to do to finish the veil. Her first fitting is next Thursday so I guess I need to get with the program in that department as well. My sister doesn' know it yet, but I am going to ask her to do the place cards when I get all the response cards back.

Weight loss has slowed down quite a bit, but I am getting there. In four more pounds, I will no longer be overweight!!!

With everything that has been going on I have really let my shop on etsy slip. Of course, with the general state of the economy, I'm not sure how well I'd be doing anyway.

Stinky mess

2009-01-10T12:56:00.001-08:00

My poor sister. Her sewer backed up into her basement last weekend. She had one company come out and tell her there was nothing wrong. So she ran water and more "stuff" came up. She had another company out and they sent a camera down and said she had a crushed pipe and that what she had was mostly mud (sure didn't smell like plain old mud) but they couldn't do the work, So she had another company come and they dug up her front yard to replace the pipe. Turned out here pipe was cast iron and not crushed. There were tree roots growing in the terra cotta pipe ubder the street. At first she was afraid they would have to dig up the street, but they put some root killing stuff down and reamed the pipe clean and they put a place to access the pipe from outside the house. It cost her over $6000.00. I went up after my doctor appointment and helped her clean up the leftover dried up sludge.

I saw the dietician and surgeon

2009-01-10T12:07:00.000-08:00

Another update--I had my 3 month follow up with the dietician and my surgeon and I have been declared the poster child for bariatric surgery! My sister was upset because she was told that she was the poster child. I've lost a total of 64.5 pounds; 39 have been lost since surgery. I was on the "small" side for surgery, meaning that I just qualified, they were pleased because the average loss 3 months out is 40-60 pounds. My goal now is to lose 19.5 more pounds before I go back on May 22. My surgeon assured me that I will continue to lose. I thought I'd be in trouble for not journaling my food, but as long as I am where I am supposed to be I don't have to.

Mother of the bride dresses.

2009-01-04T14:21:00.000-08:00

Keep in mind the dresses are a bit tight because I bought 10's, figuring I'd be down at least 10 pounds by May 16. The first one is for the wedding. and cost $27.50. Ken is not the best picture taker, but there is some beading on the hem of the sleeve. The neckline is draped and the back drapes lower than the front. The second one is for the rehearsal dinner and was a real bargain at $15.00. The last one is because I thought I looked good in the dress. This was the expensive one at $60.00. I guess that was because it was an Evan Picone. BTW, that is my ankle bracelet part way up my leg. I guess I need to take it apart and shorten it. I must say that shopping for a dress to wear was depressing at first. There was nothing in the mall. I went to a local bridal shop and told her I didn't want anything extravagant and she showed me a black dress. A black dress for the mother of the bride??? She said he dress was simple, but elegant. It cost $630! I wasn't planning to spend over $200 and she said she had nothing. I went to a small bridal shop in town and they did have some samples. The one I like best was $215 (they said they'd "work" with me, bit it would need alterations. The only thing I might need to do is hem the underlayer of the top (it is a 2 piece dress) since it wants to peek out. I'm hoping that 10 pounds will take care of that. Even if it doesn't, I can do that myself.

Here is a pic of my highest weight

2009-01-03T09:46:00.001-08:00

This was taken 2 weeks before I started the program. my sister took pictures the day before my surgery, but they are still on her camera. By then I'd lost about 25 pounds, but I was still unhealthy.

I am so HAPPY!!

2008-12-29T08:34:00.000-08:00

The first picture is from August of 07 and not my highest weight. The second picture is from June of 08 and not my highest weight.

The thirs picture is from October of 08 about 3 weeks after surgery. The last picture is from the first week of Nov. of 08 and is the most recent I have available now. Currently I am about 15 pounds less than when that picture was taken.

Now, why I am so happy. Although they are a tiny bit snug, but I am sitting here and breathing in a pair of size 8 jeans! Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd get into a size 8, and I still have 22 pounds to go until I am no longer overweight. I decided that size 14 held up with a belt will no longer cut it.

Long time, no blog

2008-12-20T14:45:00.000-08:00

It has been almost a month since I last was here. I have been busy, but that is a pretty lame excuse I suppose. I'll begin where I left off.

The inservice day was different. We went on a scavenger hunt in downtown York. The day was cold and the sky was gray, but no precipitation. The purpose was to help cooperate with each other and be better team members. I just wish I would have thought to wear my knee brace. When we were told we would be outside, I thought we would be near the school and not doing so much walking. I will say the day did go quickly.

Thanksgiving was at my sister's, although one of our cousins was in charge of the meal. You must understand that my sister is extremely organized. My cousin was expected between 2:00 and 3:00 on Wednesday afternoon, but did not appear until much later. Apparently he did not leave his house when he planned and before going to my sister's, he took his dogs to a dog park near my sister's house for 1 1/2 hours before coming to her house. This would not have driven her crazy, except he was going to cook the turkey on Wednesday. She feels he needs to acquire some time management skills.

Talk about being busy, I started this post yesterday evening and an just now getting back to it. We had friends for dnner last evening and they got here earlier than they thought they would, so I had to stop. I was too tired to finish last night and there was church this morning with a meeting afterward. I've wrapped some Christmas presents and made some goodies along with making dinner and getting all the dishes in the dishwasher.

My sister and I did our Black Friday shopping early and went out to Dresden, Ohio to Longaberger Baskets. We made a basket and has a great time shopping. Everything was 20% off and we bought plenty. My sister's SUV was jam packed when we came home.

Last Sunday my husband and I went to the Christmas party for his part-time job. Thank heavens for take-out boxes. With those leftovers and the leftovers from Saturday night (we went out) I did not have to cook all week! The food was good, but not the best for a gastric bypass patient. I only lost 1/2 pound that week.

On Thursday evening my sister and I went to our bariatric support group. That was a Christmas party, but the food was gastric bypass patient friendly. We went out to eat before the party and split a meal and each had enough for another meal.

The best news, I am no longer obese!

A visit to the surgeon

2008-11-23T19:45:00.000-08:00

Weight loss has started again! The doctor was pleased with my weight loss and how I looked! When I lose 6 more pounds I will no longer be obese, just overweight. Yes, it is a big deal.

I have been busy working to fill orders as a result of my Open House. I've finished 7 pieces and have one more to go (as of now). I hope to get another order or two or sell some things on etsy.

I started back at the deli on Saturday. My 10 year anniversary occurred while I was off. There was a small pin for me commemorating the anniversary. Because I am taking off this coming weekend I'm working tomorrow night and possibly Wednesday night.

In school, the students are in only two days this week. There is an inservice day on Wednesday. We've been told to dress to be outside all day and to lock cell phones and other valuables in our cars, but to have ID with us. A bit of a mystery, don't you think?

I'm Bummed

2008-11-15T09:03:00.001-08:00

Weight loss has come to a standstill. I'm told this is normal, but that doesn't make me like it any better. I guess I need to get back to walking on the treadmill again.

My sales on etsy aren't doing well either. I did do 2 Open Houses and did almost $300 worth of sales, so I guess I shouldn't complain too much. I guess I'll just have to try some different designs to try to appeal to a larger audience.

It is hard to believe that Thanksgiving is almost here so Christmas won't be far behind. I'm finding it hard to get into the spirit of things. The thought of Christmas shopping just overwhelms me right now. Hopefully I'll feel differently in a few days.

Only 2 more days at home...

2008-10-30T07:36:00.000-07:00

...then it will be back to work (school). I still tire fairly easily, but I do have a few more days to rest. My principal told me that if it is too much, I can do half days for a few days.

The grocery store manager wants a very specific note. I called the surgeon's office and the nurse will send another note and we'll see what happens. The nurse was not happy about having to do another note. My next appointment is 11/20/08.

The time went so fast. Being in the hospital the extra week really cut into time I had planned to do other things. I did some work on my daughter's wedding jewelry and I did get some things listed/relisted on etsy and I'm working on reviving a couple BNR's that I am on. I also wanted to get some items made for some holiday open houses and I did get a few made. If they don't sell after the open houses are over, I will list them on etsy. I have today and tomorrow to get as much done as I can.

On a happy note, I'll be able to get back on the scooter tomorrow!!

An Even Happier Day!

2008-10-28T07:10:00.000-07:00

My computer is acting weird and I have no idea how to fix it. I trued to add photos to my last post, showing photos of all the stuff related to my TPN, which is nutrition through a PICC line, which is sort of like an IV on steroids. Let me say it was a lot and I had forgotton to take photos of some of the items because I only used them for the first 10 days. Anyway, I had 4 appointments yesterday, and I was able to have the PICC line removed! At this point, I am on liquids only, but will be able to try things like mashed potatoes and applesauce by the end of the week. I'll be going back to work on Monday.

I'm relisteing some things on etsy and trying to get some pieces made that I won't list yet because I want to have an open house mid-November. If theu sell at the open house, I will have saved the etsy fee. If they don't sell at the open house, I'll have some items ready to list afterwards. i'm still working on jewelry for my daughter's wedding and her veil. When I saw the price of a veil in the bridal shop I almost fainted! Same thing with the tiara. The bridal shop one was more elaborate and the jeweled area larger. I told her I will add some crystals and pearls to the Wilton one so it doesn't have the "just-out-of-the-box" look.

I have an item I want to relist today, some Christmas earrings to find, and since I had a sale, a package to mail. I also need to finish the protein fortified jello.

Happy Day!

2008-10-17T16:08:00.000-07:00

It is taking so little to make me happy. Starting with my Sunday TPN bag, I go on an 18 hour run. That means six glorious hours with no "feedbag" attached to me! To add to my happiness is that my upper GI study is on October 27 at 8:00 am and then I see the surgeon's nurse practioner at 1:00 that same day. If there are no signs of leakage, the TPN may be discontinued and that means I can eat, at least what a gastric bypass patient is permitted to drink right after surgery. When I spoke with the surgeon yesterday, she did say that as soon as I can show I can tolerate drinking, I'll be able to move through the stages of starting to eat again more quickly that usual since they will know because of the swallow study that I will be healed.

On another note, I'll have to get my sister to send me my pre-surgery photos so I can post them, even though they do not show me at my largest, since between the presurgery nutrition phase and the presurgery liquid diet phase, I lost over 20 pounds.

A rough road

2008-10-12T19:30:00.000-07:00

When I last posted I was in the 8 day liquid fast phase preparing for surgery. I lost weight on the liquid fast (who wouldn't lose weight on less than 100 calories a day?) Surgery went as scheduled on Wednesday October 1, after some difficulty getting an IV started, which did not surprise me at all. I was discharged on Friday, October 3 as planned, but I did not have a good feeling about it. On Sunday, the left side of my stomach was swollen, warm, and I felt a lump near one of the incision sites. After talking to the the resident on call my husband took me to the ER and after numerous tests, they decided to keep me overnight. It turned out I had a small leak. The surgeon tried a stent to "cover" the leak area so I could eat, however, I was unable to tolerate the stent, even when it was repositioned, so it was removed because was unable to swallow with it in place. Now I have a PICC line and get TPN and nothing by mouth, not even water. Tomorrow I should find out when my swallow study is scheduled, which will probably be in 2 weeks. I see the surgeon on October 29.

My husband is a bit worn out from running to the hospital since it is a 90 mile round trip. Plus he had to deal with being that far away and getting phone calls from the doctor requesting consent for one of the stent proceedures since I was not in condition to give consent for anything.

I am sick of Carnation Instant Breakfast!

2008-09-24T20:04:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that I am so sick of the sweetness of it. I've been having chicken broth as a "side dish" with it just to cut the aweetness. I'll be switching to protein powder tomorrow, combining unflavored and vanilla with water. Hopefully it won't be so sweet. I'll also get to have 2 1/2 cups of 100% fruit juice tomorrow. Two days down, six to go!

Moving right along!

2008-09-23T18:41:00.000-07:00

I had my last pre-op nutrition appointment last Friday. Yesterday I had my anesthesia appointment and the visit with the surgeon's nurse and signed the consent forms. I began my 8 day fast. Rigt now I am hungry and am on my last shake of the day. Today I did Carnation Instant Breakfast (sugar free, of course). I can have more sugar free jello, which I will do. According to the dietician, the hunger will go away after the third day. I hope so. I also have protein powder so I can have something different later in the week; I just need to get some fruit juice. I found out today that my insurance has committed to pay for the surgery!

As far as school goes, I survived my first IEP conference and am working the the IEP I need to ave finished before I go on medical leave.

Longaberger Baskets, etsy, and countdown to surgery

2008-09-01T19:17:00.000-07:00

I had a sale on etsy today! Christmas is coming and I sold one of these cute mini stockings. Go here to see the details. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14805493

My sister and I are trying to qualify one of us so that when we go to Dresden in November we will get discounts at the factory store there. There is a sale at the online factory tore until September 4. Go to www.longaberger.com/donnamarsh andyou'll save money and I'l get a little closer to my goal.

Surgery is scheduled for October 1! It can't come soon enough.

A very eventful week!

2008-08-24T18:08:00.000-07:00

I had an appointment with the surgeon on Friday and I have a date for surgery. Tentatively it is October 1. I'll have 3 appointments prior to surgery. Fortunately 2 will be the same day so I only have to make that drive on 2 days. I'm very excited and can hardly wait! My sister goes on September 5 to see the same surgeon that I saw, so we are both getting closer. I talked with my cousin's ex-wife because she had bypass 5 1/2 years ago. Some things have changed since she had hers done, but she had lots of good information to share.

Today my sister and I went to Boyd's Bear Country because it was Baskets and Bears Weekend. Longaberger Baskets come with factory store merchandise and we both spent a bundle, but I did get some very pretty Christmas lunch plates, decorated with a poinsettia. I will use them as a presentation for Christmas cookies. We both signed on as consultants to get better prices. We are now checking to see how we can get the maximum for as little time spent as possible since we are both very busy.

I am this week's Spotlight Interview on esyBEAD's blog. Read all about it at http://etsybead.wordpress.com/2008/08/24/member-spotlight-purrfectlydivine/ I am thrilled!

Another step closer!

2008-08-16T18:00:00.000-07:00

I had another nutritional appointment in my quest for lapband surgery. Three was a SNAFU in scheduling, but I still will be seeing the surgeon next Friday and hope to have a surgery date! Three will be one more appointment after the surgeon appointment before surgery. at this appointment I learned more about what to expect and about the 8 day fast prior to surgery and the recovery immediately following surgery and why the diet will have to be what it is and why there won't be a fill when the band is inserted. I'm having a problem with billing and need to call Hershey again on Monday to straighten things out. I'm hoping that won't be a problem.

Today was a family reunion at my sister's house today. Most of those there were from my mother's side of the family, but there were a few from dad's side, along with a couple of my my sister's close friends, both of whom I know. As usual, there was way too much food and lots of time spent enjoying each other's company. For today, the diet went out the window. As Scarlett O'Hara said, "Tomorrow is another day."

I hope the weather is nice tomorrow so we can go for a ride. It has been a little cool this week; when we rode the other evening, we wore sweatshirts and I was still a little chilly.

I really ought to go and work on some beading. I have 2 pieces going and really need to get the one finished, especially since I know exactly how I'm going to finish it.

I learned a new skill!

2008-08-13T04:32:00.000-07:00

How to reply to a post in a google group via email!

Since I'm back from vacation I'm trying to get reconnected with all of my online groups before it is back to school, not just inservice days, or else I'll never get caught up. Since school hasn't started, I'm putting in a few extra hours at the deli this week. It will make up for the pay I did not earn last week, but I miss vacation! DH was ready to back on vacation after 3 hours at work on Monday because he had so much to straighten out.

Since I have difficulty getting photos where I want them in a post...

2008-08-11T19:14:00.001-07:00

Here is a picture of one of the banners at Graceland.

Summer School has ended

2008-08-11T18:36:00.000-07:00

Summer school went very well this year. As soon as we were finished DH and I took off for vacation. We headed out to St. Louis to meet with members of his chat room. We did some of the tourist things like Grant's Farm, where some of the Budweiser Clydesdales are bred and housed, and the Anheiser-Busch Brewery. The center picture is of the fence around Grant's Farm. The "pickets" are barrells from guns used in the Civil War. It is called Grant's Farm because the first house president Grant lived in after he got married is there. Parts of the brewery date to the late 1800's and are beautiful. The photo on the left is where some of the Clydesdales are housed at the brewery, and yes, the windows are stained glass. The photo on the right was taken inside the brewery. We also went to the Gateway Arch, but due to time contraints (we should have done more research) we were unable to go to the top like I wanted, but we did go through the Museum of Westward Expansion at the base of the arch. Getting in there was like going through airport security. We left St. Louis and went through Memphis. We got there too late to tour Graceland, but were allowed to park for free and tour some of the exhibits and visit the gift shops, which we did. We took a few pictures, including the banners in the parking lot. After that it was on to Atlanta to visit relatives.

One step closer!

2008-07-21T18:40:00.000-07:00

I had the group psychololgical session and my next appointment, a 30 minute appointment with a nutritionist is scheduled for next month. I'm really getting excited about that.

Wedding planning is moving on. I'm trying to get some things done before school starts. i meet with the coordinator at the reception site tomorrow and Next week we meet with the woman who is doing the floral arrangements. When school starts, I'll have some paperwork coming up right away, so I won't have time to devote to wedding planning. I hope we have most things decided so the wedding can be put on the back burner for a while.

Summer school ends a week from Thursday and then we leave for vacation!

It has been a long time...

2008-06-26T18:42:00.000-07:00

...since I was last here. So much has happened. Since I began my weight loss journey I have lost 25 pounds and haven't even had the surgery yet. I am still wearing the same size tops, but I've gone down a pants size! Soon I will need to take a new picture to replace the one that I've posted. Obviously portion sizes are smaller and different choices are being made. I've also been walking on my treadmill since walking outside is so hard on my knee. Today I finished and "passed" the psychological evaluation so I can proceed to the group sessions.

The school year ended on a good note. All paperwork and conferences completed on time and my observation went well. Summer school begins on Tuesday. We are in session Monday through Thursday mornings from 9:00-12:00 during July and I know all the students I am going to have and I have worked with all of the assistants assigned to my class so I am expecting it to go well.

My husband chats with a lady in British Columbia, Canada and she and her husband came east and spent 2 weekends with us. The week in between they took the train to New York City. We had a nice visit. They were quite generous and took us out to eat each day they stayed with us and I even managed to lose weight! They have invited us to visit them so that is something to look forward to in the future.

My husband and I have been spending part of each weekend riding on the scooter. I now feel pretty comfortable on it. Since losing a little weight, it is easier for me to get on. It sits higher than a motorcycle and I am short and what little height I have is in my torso. We are hoping to add a trunk with a seatback, which will have more cargo space and provide a backrest for me, which will make riding more comfortable and I will feel a bit more secure. Now all I can reach to hold on to his my husband's belt.

On Sunday my sister and I are going to a "spa" day. I know I'll be getting a facial, but I'm not sure what other services I'll have to pick from. It should be fun.

my journey has begun

2008-04-17T15:32:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday my sister and I went to Penn state Hershey Medical Center for our first appointment in our bariatric surgery journey. We had an orientation, a visit with a dietician, a visit with a nurse, and a visit to the lab to have bloodwork done. I say journey because it is a 6 month long process before you even get to surgery. We each have been given a meal plan to follow starting now and we have to lose 5% of our body weight in those 6 months. Each month we have homework to do and if we don't do it our journey will be delayed. We have psychological evals scheduled in June. My sister has to have an exercise eval and I need to have a sleep study done.

Another featured shop!

2008-04-10T19:39:00.000-07:00

This time it is earthcharms' turn. She has many interesting and unique pieces in her shop which are grouped into several "collections" each with a theme. The necklace pictured really cought my eye as I browsed her shop I just love the color combination of this piece. It would certinly make a statement no matter what blouse you would wear with it, but I think a black v-neck as pictured would definitely showcase it. Take a look at ther shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5084896 to see all she has to offer. She will educate you with the descriptions of her work.To find what else she is doing visit her blog http://www.earth-charms.blogspot.com/

Last Weekend...

2008-04-06T08:30:00.000-07:00

...was fantastic. My husband and I flew to Nashville on Friday morning to meet people who post on a message board I belong to. It was so good to be able to put a face and personality behind a name. Not too much sightseeing because we spent so much time eating and talking. Some of the members live in the area and we met at her house on Saturday afternoon for refreshments and more chat. We ate at a White Castle, which may not be exciting to most people, but we don't have them where we live. We also checked out an Irish pub (twice) and a microbrewery. The microbrewery was fun as a group, but I'm not sure I'd go there again if I had the chance. The pub was lots more fun. They didn't take reservations, but we found a small "room" and we kind of took it over and there were 12 of us. The food was very good both times. The worst part of the trip was the motel. I was not impressed at all, very bare bones. We won't stay at that chain again unless it is a group thing and I will definitely voice my opinion. The only other bad part was we had to get up so early to get our flights because we couldn't afford to miss either flight.

90 features in 90 days, slowly catching up!

2008-03-22T18:27:00.000-07:00

It is so hard to believe that Easter is tomorrow. It is just too cold and yucky outside. It won't be this early for another 200 years I've been told. As promised, I am doing double duty so I am not so far behind. This will be # 48. My 1st feature was on January 31. I should be at #52 I think, and since there are not yet 90 shops on the list, I am doing well. Today's feature is SimplySaid by Sarah. If you like to put a little goodie into someone's lunc , briefcasse or backpack to brighten their day you need to visit her shop, http://SimplySaidBySarah.etsy.com She has inexpensive goodies like decorated sticky notes that will do just that. She also has a blog http://SimplySaidBySarah.blogspot.com

Another featured shop!

2008-03-21T20:33:00.000-07:00

Tired of the same old greeting cards? QuirkynBerkeley http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=67504&section_id=5094286 is just the shop for you to visit. Order several to have on hand so you are ready for any occasion (she has cards for most occasions in stock and ready to ship) and as a bonus, you'll also save on shipping. You'll also be sending a unique card. There is also a blog to visit http://quirkynberkeley.blogspot.com/

Catching up, Day 2 plus wedding details

2008-03-21T17:05:00.000-07:00

Busy day, but we put a deposit on a place for my daughter's wedding reception!!!! She is not getting married until May 2009, but we have a place and they will get the DJ, and will have their baker contact us about the cake. The photographer is booked so I can relax for the time being.

I did promise to do some catching up on my features so today I am going to feature knuckletoes. The name of the shop just made me so curioius I had to check it out. You should too http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5173363 This section made me laugh http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5173363&section_id=5150190 Hallmark is missing out on a good thing. Her blog can be found at http://knuckletoes.blogspot.com

Still trying to catch up

2008-03-20T19:56:00.000-07:00

As promised, it is catch up time. For my second feature I am doing aromaticbodyoils. They make:Whipped Shea ButtersCold Processed Handmade SoapsHot Processed Body WashesLotionsBody ButtersDeodorantsPerfumes and ColognesIncenseCandlesSkin Care Products that promote clear healthy skin! Look here http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10120085 for descriptions of some of her fragrances. For her shop home, go here http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=22745 be sure to read her interesting profile. To view her blog, go here http://www.zaidat.com/blog

Trying to get caught up

2008-03-20T19:34:00.000-07:00

I have been slipping lately so I'm going to try to do some catching up, especially since I'll be gone next weekend. Today it is Deabusamor's turn to be featured. She writes,"Roughly translated, Deabus Amor means 'Goddess of Love' in Latin. Though I am by no means a deity, I believe in sharing love and good-will through each item I create." She has some polymer clay pieces. This heart is my absolute favorite. Find your own favorite in her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5337943. Check out her blog http://omgcow.blogspot.com/

I am so tired.

2008-03-16T19:23:00.000-07:00

The time change has really upset my inner clock. I am always tired this week. May be next week will be better.

I am behind on my features so I need to get going. Here is one for today. Check out this beautiful necklace by Stephanie Strain, who must be one busy lady. reading her profile made me tired than I already am. She writes, "Stephanie Strain is a pseudo-geek and jewelry designer, working on further developing more advanced wire and silversmith techniques. I love the varying colors, textures and patterns of gemstones and study lapidary and gemology, as well.I have 3 shops on Etsy:BerryPatchDesigns (this shop) I work with my two "sisters" who also create lovely earth-based jewelry.http://SilverShadow.etsy.com (AKA SilverShadow Designs) is my own primary shop, though many of BerryPatch's pieces are mine, as well.UnderCurrent http://UnderCurrent.etsy.comis my shop for edgier and experimental designs and is still in development. COMING SOON: BAJORAN STYLE EAR CUFFSI love to combine the varying colors and textures of the natural world. There are so many feelings and places to love about our world!Sterling silver and copper join in the visual symphony; they have their own brightness and feelings to contribute. Gold filled or vermeil will sometimes "drop in".Hearing and seeing that people enjoy wearing my jewelry is one of the best things about designing jewelry.

SilverShadow Stylings is the work of Stephanie Strain of Orlando, FL.---SilverShadow http://SilverShadow.etsy.com ---UnderCurrent http://UnderCurrent.etsy.com ---BerryPatchDesigns http://BerryPatchDesigns.etsy.comBLOG: HTTP://STRAINSASYLUM.BLOGSPOT.COM

A new week!

2008-03-10T20:39:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend the weather was so nasty. We had 60 mph winds that made it seem really cold and some areas had hail. It was cold this morning, but did warm up a bit as the day went on.

I've been a little lazy in doing my features so I need to get with the program. Today I am featuring art2theextreme. In her profile she writes, " I am an elementary art teacher from Indianapolis, Indiana. I graduated from college with a Visual Arts Education degree and a Ceramics concentration. Travel is a HUGE part of my inspiration to create art. I have been to England, Scotland, Mexico, and lived in Italy for a short period of time to study art.I love working with ceramics, printmaking, and fibers most of all! In my free time, I create art to share and sell, as well as scrapbook.Art is all around us. It is everywhere and in everything. " Wouldn't you like to color with the pictured crayon? You can check out all of her offerings at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5429966 She also has a blog http://art2theextreme.blogspot.com/

Another day

2008-03-06T18:14:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was an inservice day and amazingly, both presenters were pretty interesting. As a bonus, we got to go out for lunch and we got to leave 30 minutes early! It takes so little to make my happy.

Today I am featuring aprettyrock. She writes, "My name is Yazmin. I am a jewelry designer. I've always been an artsy-crafty person, but it seems like I just moved into jewelry unintentionally. In 2004, I went to the Yellow Daisy Festival for the umpteenth time and found a pair of beautiful hair chopsticks with beaded ends. I wore them for about a month straight! They were a true obsession.I spent a lot of time thinking about the chopsticks and how to make my own. This led me to local stores like Michael's and Joann's, but it also led me to several boutique bead shops... Many gemstones and wire later and here I am!" I think this ring is really neat. Check it out as well as her other items http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5380 You can also read her blog http://www.aprettyrock.com/blog

We Finally Got Internet Back!

2008-03-02T20:13:00.000-08:00

Let's just say that I am not loving Comcast. My email still is not working properly. I have spent so much time on this problem I should be on their payroll.

Today's featured shop is CreativeSundries, which is comprised of Carol and Sarah, a mother-daughter/friend-friend team. They seem to have a little bit of everything in their shop. This is the item that caught my eye, but they have such a variety you just need to see it for yourself and you can by visiting their shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php? You can visit their blog at http://creativesundries.blogspot.com

I'm glad today is over!

2008-02-27T18:33:00.000-08:00

Today I had a prospective student and his family visit my class and I'm happy to say it went very well. Not that I would have changed anything, but it was stressful, worrying about how it would go. Now it is time to blog.

Today I am featuring Elements by Dawn. In her profile on etsy shre writes, "*<>*Element - refers to the shape, form, mass, line, texture, pattern, light, and color of a design. *<>*Dawn is particularly drawn to creating pattern and texture in her pieces. Through pattern and texture, her designs take on movement, visual and tactile interest. Through the use of color and form, she communicates emotion and energy. Dawn's pieces range from simplistic shapes and lines, evoking a sense of calm; to heavily textured with bold colors and lines, suggesting passion.Her obsession with circles, spheres, disks, and
symmetry is expressed throughout her designs.Dawn is constantly
learning new techniques, as well as perfecting traditional methods of metalworking and design. Additionally, she is a full-time student, wife, and mother of two boys. She enjoys listening to music of all types, especially industrial, techno, a little ska, and classical. Dawn is a self-diagnosed coffee and cheese addict." These earrings are awesome. I have tried that chainmaille pattern and was unable to do it. You can see examples of other chainmaille work when you visit her shop at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=69819 She also has a blog at http://elementsbydawn.blogspot.com/

Bingo!

2008-02-24T19:01:00.000-08:00

Today I helped with a Bingo fundraiser to help raise money for the playground at the school where I teach. I think everyone had a good time. I asked my sister to come and she won a game and a door prize as well. I even had time to take some pictures of my pieces, but I don't have enough good ones to list anything, but I'll have to wait until at least Tuesday to take more.

I still have time to do a feature today, so I am going to do entyqua.. She writes, "I am Becki I am a SAHM to one gorgeous little girl!About the creations I make both costume and genuine stone/metal jewelry as well as finish Jewelry boxes, card making and other paper crafts and coming soon I will be doing clothing as well! I have a lot of creative outlets." To read the rest of her bio you will have to visit her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5051364 YOu can also visit her blog http://beckisdesigns.blogspot.com/

Another snow day!!

2008-02-22T17:48:00.000-08:00

And I am not happy about this day either. Oh well, I did get lots of school work done today so I do feel goo about that. Today's featured shop is sparklystrandz. In her bio she writes, "I've had a love for crafts, especially crochet for over 25 years ever since my grandmother taught me at age 5. It was probably the best thing she could have done for my parents because it would keep me busy for hours. During college, I developed a love for beads--not just because they're sparkly, but because beads have such a rich history to them from around the world, and can be made from almost anything imaginable. Also, as an occupational therapist, I am able to use a variety of crafts and activities in my therapy to make it more fun!I combined my love for crochet and beads and began making jewelry, baby onesies, hats, and all sorts of gift items about 10 years ago. "Sparkly Strandz" is an online store that you can visit and create your own jewelry by choosing the right color bead, wire, and length you want for that perfect piece!!" Check out one of her catnip toys, pictured above. To see what she has to offer, visit her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5059734 You can also visit her blog http://sparklystrandz.blogspot.com/

90 features in 90 days #36

2008-02-21T17:26:00.000-08:00

More wintry weather is on the way so I am less than happy. Of course I am wondering if school will be in session tomorrow? I'm actually hoping for a 2 hour delay so we get the day in and it counts.
In spite of taking a day off here and there, I am making my way throught the list Today I am featuring allyon67. "Deep Blue" is my favorite piece from her shop. To see everything she has to offer, visit her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=57441 You can also visit her blog at http://pmillerabstractart.blogspot.com/

Back to School

2008-02-19T19:12:00.001-08:00

Due to bad weather and scheduled vacation days we have been off a week and the day was wild. I was exhausted by the end of the day, but still had the energy to go to my first knitting class. I didn't do too badly.

Today I am featuring arosebyname. In her profile she writes, "I am a self-employed wife and mother of two teenage daughters. I enjoy beading and find that it is my therapy for stress!My daughters and I first tried beading many years ago. Over the years, the beads have gotten smaller and the designs more intricate. Although my girls no longer bead, they enjoy wearing the pieces that I have created. Etsy Street Teams are awesome and I have become a part of this fantastic group!Etsy BeadWeavers Street Team: http://etsy-beadweavers.blogspot.com/ " I just love the bracelet I pictured, but you might prefer something else, so check out her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5049143 and her blog http://arosebyname.blogspot.com/.

Sunday!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-02-17T15:30:00.000-08:00

However, the weather is just lousy. I'd almost prefer snow. On to more pleasant things like th e 90 features in 90 days challenge. Today the lucky shop is littlebrownbird. Before I do her feature I must mention about a missing person notice posted on her blog. http://thelittlebrownbird.blogspot.com/ Please read it and if you know anything, please call 911. If nothing else, please pray for his safe return to his loved ones.

Excerpts from her profile include. "Hi! My name is Mary Ryan. I am an Interior Design Consultant by day and a Jewelry Artist every other waking moment. I have a variety of collections to complement any style and price point for young girls to women. I will happily accept orders for custom sizing or a change in clasp or ear post/wire on any of my pieces." I love her bracelets and can't decide which of the 2 bracelets I pictured is my favorite. Visit her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5106927 to see the rest of her profile and more of her work.

A little time off.

2008-02-16T18:50:00.000-08:00

I took a few days off blogging. Yesterday I spent over an hour on the phone with my favorite ISP (NOT!) because of poor service. Now on to more fun things, like featuring another etsy shop. Today it is BerryBeads. She specializes in beaded lanyards. In her etsy profile she writes, "Hi! My name is Rosi and I have always loved crafts. It is especially nice when the things I make are practical as well as pretty. I have many different interests and making jewelry is a new passion to bring out my creative side." To see more of her designs visit her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=88241 You can also visit her blog http://www.blog.berrybeady.com/

Another snow day!!

2008-02-13T20:59:00.000-08:00

I was even less happy than yesterday. Now we are adding days to the end of the school year. This does not make me happy.

Today I have chosen to feature Chalk Hill Studio. Her etsy username is Kala. In her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=45836 profile she writes, "My name is Karen, I'm mum to two beautiful children and a professional artist and illustrator from the UK. I love to create and have trouble deciding what to do so I usually end up trying to a bit of everything from painting to jewellery making and crochet, which is why I opened an esty shop. Here you will find my artwork, prints and cards,my crafts and jewellery can be found in my new shop opening soon http://upwiththelark.etsy.com/ My main website is www.chalkhillstudio.co.uk which is where I sell my stationery and gifts for those special moments in our lives! To see what goes on in my life visit my blog http://karenjinks.blogspot.com/ " Don't you just love the picture of the roses on the front of that notecard?

Snow Day!

2008-02-12T17:44:00.000-08:00

However, I really did not want one. Now we will be in school Easter Monday, which makes me unhappy. I can't do anything about it so I'll grin and vear it.

Today I decided to feature Moore Taste. The bracelet at right is my favorite item from her shop. But, I like the chainmaille bracelet too since I have a fascination with chainmaille and seem unable to master any of the 3 chainmaille weaves I have attempted. To see all of her items and read her profile, where you will learn that she is in Australia and has 2 children, you'll need to visit her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=100235 You can also visit her blog http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=100235

It is still REALLY cold!

2008-02-11T19:43:00.000-08:00

I'm tired of being cold every time I have to go outside. It was HOme Ec. today for my class and we made funnel cakes. Everyone really enjoyed them.

Today I will feature Bella Dio. She writes in her bio, "I am a SAHM and I started making jewelry years ago. My friend and I would get together and bead, while our little ones napped. Two years ago, I started playing with polymer clay and I really enjoy the opportunities this opened up to me. I slowly started adding in twisted, bent and curled wire to my designs." Visit her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5408087 to see items like my favorite that you see here. Check out her blog at http://belladio.blogspot.com/

It is REALLY cold and windy.

2008-02-10T17:38:00.000-08:00

The temperature is in the teens and it sounds like we're living in a wind tunnel. Not my kind of weather. I went out twice, but now I'm home to stay for the evening. I'm going to feature cigarboxbeads today. In her profile she writes, "I'm a retired Home Ec teacher, loved what I did, love what I'm doing now. Beadweaving is my joy, along with knitting, crocheting, sewing AND being with our twin granddaughters. Not at the same time though, they love to 'help'! We do have 'crafting time' every day that I watch them, so I hope I'm instilling the love of creating in them.PS- I just opened another etsy shop---suchandsort-go there to read where THAT name came from!AND.....breaking news-- a new blog -- http://cigarboxbeads.blogspot.com I'm just getting started, so not much there right now--but I'm working on it!" Isn't this bracelet just fabulous? See all of her work at http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5147055

2008-02-08T19:41:00.000-08:00

Finally Friday! It was a very strange week. There wasn't a single day that followed my normal routine and was just exhausting, but it is now over and next week is a three day week!
Today I plan to feature luckygirltrading. Here is a photo of one of my favorites from her shop, but all of her work is fabulous. Her profile explains the name of her shop. She writes, "In the spring of 2001 I was overwhelmed by sadness and huge piles of clutter. My marriage was in the midst of a very ugly ending, and he had left tons of his stuff behind. I suddenly realized that I was a very lucky girl to be rid of him, and Lucky Girl Trading Company was born. I began listing his stuff for sale on eBay, clearing away both the clutter and the sadness. A few years later I met my lucky guy--who was selling a bit of jewelry--and married him in a hot air balloon ceremony in 2006. We've worked together to build Lucky Girl Trading into a fun and fulfilling enterprise. I've also discovered working with glass--one of my all-time favorite creative outlets. I've also discovered two ancient arts: Kumihimo and Temari. Both are centuries-old crafts, and both give me a zen-like tranquility while working. I truly am a Lucky Girl! Every day I gather pretty, sparkly things and send them to people. I imagine a person opening their mail and taking out their new pendant or chain or pouch. It's perfect--they have a huge smile on their face--and so do I. I'd love for that person to be you!"
Check out all of her items http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5252096 and her blog http://luckygirltrading.blogspot.com/

My conferences went well!!!

2008-02-07T17:33:00.000-08:00

Can you tell I am very happy? One more tomorrow, then the finishing paperwork, read the less than fun part of my job. That is assuming the copier is fixed I will be abe to finish.

Today I am featuring morelle http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5531346. She has some fantastic bags in her shop. I think this is my favorite, but it is a difficult decision. You'll have to visit her shop to see for yourself. You can also visit her blog at http://www.morelle.nl/

Preparing for parent conferences

2008-02-05T20:21:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow I have parent conferences. I feel pretty good about how they are going to go. I hope everything goes as well as I expect.

Today I am featuring RegalBeads. She writes, " have loved doing crafts for most of my life (in fact, my dad loves to tell an embarrassing childhood story on me about this passion ;))Both of my parents are quite creative, and passed this down to me!I started beading over five years ago and took to it like a fish to water. I love the feel of the beads in my hands, the challenge of a new pattern, and the joy of a completed piece!For years this has been one of my hobbies, with my personal collection growing quite large, and with many family members and friends also benefiting.I have now decided to share these treasures with the world." This bracelet would be perfect for your Valentine. Get a better look at it by visiting her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5306587. Check out her blog at http://regalbeads.blogspot.com/

Two items listed today!

2008-02-03T18:24:00.000-08:00

Two sales this weekend! Can you tell I'm pretty happy. I hope the etsybead hunt is going well. I'll have to check with later on to see if anybody won.

Today I will feature stacirose.

She writes, "My name is Staci Rose, busy bee of Staci Rose Designs. I offer original, hand-made, and one of a kind: Original Oil Paintings, Handmade Jewelry, Decorated Picture Frames and Mirrors, Judaica, Bead Boxes, Mother's Earrings, and more great gift ideas! " She has a section for the guys, with pieces like this one.

Visit her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=63692 and her blog http://stacirose.blogspot.com/

Free until Monday morning

2008-02-02T18:38:00.000-08:00

I'm going to finish this post, then off to the bead room for me! Today I will feature Thumbelina Creations. In her profile on etsy we can learn much about her. (We are both members of etsyBEAD.)Jonquil Thiessen is a stay-at-home mom of three boys who loves to be creative in many different ways. She loves to sing, knit, crochet, draw, scrapbook, write music, and make jewelry. She would feel lost if she wasn't able to be creative. She started young, singing in church and at weddings at three years old. Music and art have always been her passion. She took art classes and music lessons all through school and college. During college, she met her husband, Keith. They have been married for almost ten years. He also enjoys music and encourages her to further her interests. (Or maybe he justs puts up with it.) He does say sometimes that she has too many hobbies.Jonquil's favorite medium is ... well ... It's hard to pick a favorite. She likes jewelry, but is considering opening a knitting store as well. She has tried to pass on her passion to her boys, but as you may know, little boys do not have a long attention span. Some of the boys are off to school know, so she has a little more time to focus on her art.Her main priority is her family. Etsy has become a valuable method of continuing with her art and still being able to love and take care of her family.
My favorite piece in her shop is pictured above. Those old style soda bottle caps bring back memories for me. See the rest fo her creationas athttp://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5205870 and don't miss her blog at http://thumbelinacreations.spaces.live.com/

Finally Friday!

2008-02-01T19:20:00.000-08:00

The downside is that I worked both jobs. Now I'm free until 8:00am tomorrow, so I can feature Ulixis Crafts. In her etsy profile she writes, "My name is Amanda, I'm 21 years old and I grew up in the middle of nowhere - Northern Ontario. I'm currently a fifth year Honours Biology and Pharmacology co-op student at McMaster University and I'm working in the Janssen lab on my thesis. I do real-time videomicroscopy of smooth muscle cell migration. I've been crafty my whole life, and enjoy making a variety of things. When I was younger, it was drawing, then wreathes, dolls and beading. Now, my focus has switched to notebooks and jewelry. I also enjoy cooking, reading, writing and problem solving." She is obviously a very busy lady. Visit her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5284374 and you will see items such as this set. Check her blog at http://ulixis.blogspot.com/.

I'm so glad to be home to relax and rest

2008-01-31T17:21:00.000-08:00

It was a very exhausting day at work today. After I came home I fell asleep reading the newspaper. At least I woke up in time to feature KreativeMindz.
From KreativeMindz's Profile
"KreativeMindz is our company I started a few years ago (a dream I've had forever). Aly and Beau are a husband and wife team, supporting each other through love, laughter and creativity. An-G is one of Aly's best friends, who is a wonderful seamstress and enjoys sewing in her free time, when she isn't being a vet :).We mostly make clothing (in all sizes and colors), Goddess Wraps™, Hot Packs, Bags, Purses, Wallets, Cuffs and many other cool things! Beau is a very skilled craftsman and carpenter. Check out the Wooden Kreationz section to see some things my husband is now adding. :DA LITTLE ABOUT USI was born and raised in a home of artists. My mother a painter, and my father a photographer. As kids we always were doing some sort of "project". This has continued for me thoughout my life, dipping my hands in all sorts of creative "projects". I found my nitch in sewing. I LOVE creating different things. I picture it in my mind and then it becomes...it is my "gift" I suppose. And I enjoy working with the different fibers to see what can be done with them.I mostly stay at home and mother our 2 wonderful and beautiful children (9 and 2), my husband and best friend, our 3 dogs and a cat, and our beautiful land. This keeps me busy, as I'm sure you can imagine, but I try to sew on a daily basis, even if it's only 15 minutes. I have been making clothes for many, many years (15 to be exact). I first started when I was 15 and made a patchwork skirt by hand for a show I was going to. As I got older I bought a sewing machine and began making clothes to support my traveling and music habit. I have traveled all over the country selling my clothes at all the wonderful shows and festivals. I miss that sometimes but am so blessed to have my 2 wonderful and beautiful children. When my son got older I started working in the film buisness...helping design sets and such. This was wonderful and fun work, but I truly missed being home. My daughter was born 2 years ago, and with the help of my wonderful and supportive husband, I started to stay home again. I knew we needed the extra income though....so here I am...trying to learn my way around the internet highway. I am so very thankful to have this opportunity to be able to watch my children grow!!! We enjoy our land and our organic gardens. Hiking, fishing, swimming, playing, camping, fires, drum circles and a show when we can catch one. My husband is a carpenter and loves working with his hands and building wonderful things! An-G is living in Columbus, where she just graduated from vet school(WHOOHOOO!!!). She is currently engaged to be married next summer! :)She has been sewing a long time as well, learning some from her mother and some from herself! More to come on An-G. :)Thanks to all of you whom support us stay at home mamas and independent artists!!!! And thank you for helping our dream become reality! We truly appreciate all the support! :D" besure to visit her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5049713&section_id=5047502 and check out her Goddess Wrapz, which look really cool. Her blog http://kreativemindzthreadz.blogspot.com/ is a "must visit" also.

I think I'm going crazy!

2008-01-30T19:40:00.000-08:00

Let me must say that paperwork is driving me crazy!

Now to move on to more fun things, today's featured shop is Coconut Palm Designs. (Can't you just feel the tropical breezes?) In her profile she writes, "I am a Canadian living in Belize, Central America and also a graphic designer. Woodworking and sign design is my newest crafting passion but art has been in my blood since birth. Sign making has turned into a great outlet for my creative energies and finally I am using my graphic design training for something exciting. Custom orders are welcome. Please feel free to contact me if you have a particular sign you would like me to make for you. " As of this moment it is so cold here, I wish I were living in Belize. This sign, shown at the left, reminds me that warmer days are coming! Besure to visit her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5128816 and her blog to see all she has to offer. http://coconutpalmdesigns.blogspot.com/

Keep on featuring!

2008-01-29T19:19:00.000-08:00

Citrus Tree Designs http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5332686 is a shop featuring Cards, Prints, and more! All Original Photograhy and Illustrations. Here is a link to my favorite section of her shop. http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5332686&section_id=5279635 The animal images are the ones I like best and I really like the cat. But I also like the doggie. She has a variety pack if you can't make up your mind. I think you too will like her designs. Be sure to visit her shop and blog http://citrustreedesigns.blogspot.com/ to see more. Also read her complete profile at http://www.etsy.com/profile.php?user_id=5332686

Another featured shop!

2008-01-29T18:05:00.000-08:00

Crazy day at school day, but I like those days becuse you are never bored. The apron pictured here is my favorite item in the shop I am going to feature today. She says this apron is for Christmas, but I think it would work perfectly for Valentine's Day. She has different aprons, both mommy size and daughter size. The shop with all the aprons is Mommy and me boutique. She says it is for Christmas, but I think it would work perfectly for Valentine's Day.

She wries in her profile, "Designer fabrics, beautiful trims and ribbons are the materials I love to work with to bring you items that you can be proud to purchase and enjoy using. Loving care and personal expression are put into each one. Aprons for adults and children are my specialty. Whether it be cooking or entertaining, these aprons are designed for today's mother and child to show off their own sense of style; you can be sure "these are not your mother"s aprons."

Be sure to visit her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5005863 and her blog http://themommyandmeboutique.blogspot.com/. She has a link to her flickr account there.

Paperwork Day

2008-01-28T19:13:00.001-08:00

I had a sub for me so I could do paperwork. I got so much done I feel like a great weight has been lifted off my shoulders.

ThatsHeadley is my featured shop for today. After I read her profile I know I'd really like her. Smoke-free, kitty-friendly home and studio (This is why I'd know I'd like her!) She writes, "That's Headley! Jewelry Designs is about a journey in wearable art in semiprecious gemstones, wire, and glass. Color, texture, balance, and richness are my design goals. I've been "beading" since junior high, and for the last couple of years have expanded my use of wire wrapping. I've also added silversmithing to my techniques. Silver is always bona fide sterling at the least, and sometimes fine (99.9% pure) silver. I rarely make two pieces alike, because I like to have fun wearing jewelry, and seeing myself coming and going is not fun! Sometimes, though, when something comes out especially wonderful, I might make just a few to share the fun. I love to do custom work, too, so if you have something inspirational you would like to have a custom piece to wear with or to, send me a picture or description of what you would like, and we can be creative together!" Her blog, where she puts her newest creations and comments on life, the creative process, and other fabulous Etsy artists can be found at http://thatsheadley.blogspot.com
You really must visit her shop to see her wonderfuk pieces. My favorites are here http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=25865&section_id=5214305 It brings back memories of growing up when my dad calle dmy sister and I two peas on a pod.

Sunday!

2008-01-27T17:10:00.000-08:00

The reunion that ws held at my house today went well and I'm quite pleased.

Today I'm featuring Berry Beads berrybeads.etsy.com She writes, "Hi! My name is Rosi and I have always loved crafts. It is especially nice when the things I make are practical as well as pretty. I have many different interests and making jewelry is a new passion to bring out my creative side." I love this bracelet. Check out her shop at the link above to see all of her creations. View her blog at http://blog.berrybeady.com/ to find out more.

90 features in 90 days

2008-01-26T16:49:00.000-08:00

The Open House we held today did not go as well as we had hoped, however, life goes on. At least those who were here thought the food was good. That made me feel good since I spent all morning preparing the food. We also got to meet our daughter's future inlaws for the first time. I think I need an etiquette book on relationships with your child's inlaws. I wasn't sure what they thought of us. I can't dwell on that too long because now I need to cook for tomorrow since I'm having a family reunion of sorts at my house. Everyone is bringing something so I don't have to cook too much. On the brighter side of things, I'm on a roll in keeping up with the 90 features in 90 days challenge, in fact I'm a day ahead. I think this is about my 10th one. Amazing, just absolutely amazing, considering how I've been known to procrastinate.
Today my featured shop will be Celtic Goddess Jewelry, which has been in business since 2002. She is influenced by spiritual learning, nature, goddess, and Celtic imagery and she identifies very strongly with her Celtic heritage.

She has some beautiful and unique pieces in her shop. This versatioe necklace is one. Visit her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=16038 One unique and fun piece is her Sushi California Roll Bracelet, which is pictured here.

To learn more about the Celtic Goddess, all you nned to do is visit her blog http://buyindie.blogspot.com/ You can learn about other etsy artisians while there.

Finally Friday!

2008-01-25T19:51:00.000-08:00

My husband and I are having an Open House tomorrow. We've been here almost a year and are just getting around to having one. I took off from the deli tomorrow to have time to prepare.

I'm tired since I worked both jobs today, but before I turn in for the night, I am going to feature Silver Dragon Creations http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=77921 She writes in her etsy profile, "I have always been an artist and one of my earliest art memories is also one of the influences that has stayed with me from the very start. I was four years old and my nursery class had a field trip to a local museum in Rochester NY. I was completely mesmerized by the textiles and beadwork of the native Americans. I don't know how long I stood there just gazing at the work and absorbing all that the creator had to say.My path as an artist, however, was a duet of both fine and performing arts. I am a (retired) ballerina as well as a published artist, having done illustrations for a CD picture book, "Papa CArdinal Finds Breakfast" by Sandra Wellborn. One of my paintings accompanied and essay I wrote for an Astronomy textbook. (I also hold a Masters Degree in Astrophysics from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy NY and have worked as an astronomer and still teach astronomy as an adjunct professor for University of Maryland University College.)My work has continued to grow and expand and I now also count myself as a mistress of the art of beadweaving. My paintings and drawings are as important to me as ever, though, and I don't find enough time to do all that I want!All of my work is one of a kind (with occasional limited editions -- I have a hard time doing things more than once!). I like to play with color and texture, experiment with shape and drape and form. Human beings, I think, are happiest when they are allowed to create. I know this is true for me."

From reading her bio you learn that she is a very talented person. Even her blog http://vener-art.com/beadblog/ is creatively done.

Pricing Tuxedos

2008-01-24T15:43:00.000-08:00

My daughter won't be getting married until May 2009, but the planning has started. She went to a wedding expo and purchased her dress and tonight we priced tuxedos. I want to scream and we've a long way to go.

Today I'll be featuring the founder of the 90 features in 90 day challenge, Giftbearer. Be sure to visit her shop. http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=3855 The bio from her profile on etsy says it better than I ever could. " Pippit Carlington has been creating art ever since she was 2 years old. At age 5 she wascomposing songs on the piano; teaching herself to play by ear. She often found herself re-designing things she saw around her, in 6th grade she constructed the class mascot; a 4 foot-tall owl sculpted out of paper mache, and in junior high she began selling various art items she had made. Over the years Pippit went on to receive formal art training at Callenwolde Center for the Arts, The Atlanta College of Art, and Atlanta Jeweler's School and Studios.Pippit works in several mediums;including acrylics, watercolor, drawing, clay sculpture, and jewelry. A multicultural influence is evident in her work reflecting a diverse heritage of Iroquois Indian, Hawaiian, Russian Jewish, and French Canadian. She is strongly influenced by nature, political and social issues, and uses her art to educate the public. Two paintings from her September 11th Series appeared at a show on war at The Spruill Center Gallery. One of them titled, "It Makes You Realize What's Really Important", depicts a family comforting each other with an American flag in the background. The other shows the rescue effort at Ground Zero, "Amongst The Chaos". That series also included portraits of Osama Bin Laden and George W. Bush. This series was really an exercise in patience and tolerance. It was a difficult subject matter, but I felt it was important to document this event in history so that hopefully people would never let this happen again. The portrait of Osama Bin Laden evoked such an emotional reaction that the gallery exhibiting it in Sautee, GA. had to take it down. The gallery-owner reported to me that people told her it was incredibly realistic and that was why people were so deeply affected by it on a visceral level. One of the other paintings in the series, "Blessed Event" shows the resilient side of September 11th; the story of a woman who walked several miles after being separated from her car to the local emergency room to give birth to a healthy baby. Journalists had done an interview with the new mother and her husband for Time Magazine. Greeting cards and bookmarks are available of some of these paintings. Pippit has mentored artists with mental illness in a psychosocial rehabilitation program she developed called Artvision which she operated out of her home on a shoestring budget. The project was fully self-supporting, receiving no government funding. Artists in the program received help and guidance in learning all aspects of how to run an art-based business. This prepared them to earn money using a talent they already have. Pippit has become involved in a number of volunteer efforts; including providing online support and treatment information to people with autoimmune diseases, and has donated art items to benefit the survivors of Hurricane Katrina.

The artist has sold and exhibited her art at the following stores/galleries; Star Sapphire
Oz Gallery
Dragonfly Gallery
The Spruill Center Gallery
The Millennium Art Co-op
Anna's Wardrobe
Topaz Gallery
Squash Blossom
The Work of Our Hands
Simpsonwood Gift Shop
Creative Spirit Gallery

She has participated in the following art shows;
The Sandy Springs Festival
Annual GA. Microenterprise Network Conference
For Sisters Only
The Spring Fling at Simpsonwood
Sweet Auburn Festival
Inman Park Festival
Arts In The Garden
Goodwill Christmas Bazaar
United Way Christmas Art Show
AutumnFest

*Other Online Sites*
SmashingDarlinghttp://www.smashingdarling.com/store/1882

Mindt (items available in this store soon)http://www.mintd.com/stores/show/148-Giftbearer
Dawandahttp://en.dawanda.com/shop/Giftbearer

Some of my work will be available starting November 17th at:VIX Emporium5009 Baltimore Ave.Philadelphia PA 19143215-471-7700

my blogs:
http://artlifenewsblog.blogspot.com/
http://giftbearer.zaadz.com/blog
http://blog.myspace.com/giftbearer
Flickr Profile and Photostream:
http://www.flickr.com/people/giftbearer/The Art Jewelry Collective Street Team Blogs:
http://artjewelrycollective.blogspot.com/
http://artjewelrycollective.wordpress.com/

***Pippit developed an innovative new marketing plan called the 90 Features in 90 Days Challenge*** If you are an Etsy seller who would like to increase your sales learn more about it and sign up here;
http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5251490&page=1
Some sellers whose sales were previously stagnant have already reported sudden sales after 28 days with 54 participants!See some examples of features I've written on other Etsy artists in my blog here:
http://artlifenewsblog.blogspot.com/
If you are interested in supplies please check out my other Etsy store, GiftbearerSupply.etsy.com. You will find bead kits I mix myself and all kinds of other interesting things!

Losing/misplacing things

2008-01-23T18:05:00.000-08:00

Lately it seems that almost everything I touch goes MIA. I'm spending more time hunting for things than doing things, which is such a waste of precious time.

At least I have time to feature a shop, PurpleSnowpeas.

"Kathryn Short, a photographer and all-around artist, attended the Maryland Institute College of Art. She was a photography major, but also enjoys bookmaking and knitting. Kathryn now teaches art and photography at the high school level.Kathryn loves to knit and crochet, take photographs while walking outdoors, craft small books for collecting thoughts, and anything else that keeps her hands busy."

Thses wristwarmers http://tinyurl.com/3bprqn which are featured in her shop as of this posting, just seemed to jump out at me. To see the rest of her items, you will need to visit her shop http://tinyurl.com/2jfkcf

Visit her blog where she talks about knitting and ETSY artists! http://purple-snowpeas-shop.blogspot.com/

2008-01-22T17:36:00.000-08:00

Today was a dreary day and I had no energy. It seemed like everybody at school felt the same way. It was very hard to go back after a long weekend. I 'd better find some energy soon because I still have quite a bit of paperwork to do.
I'm on a roll with the cat theme so today I am featuring MyCatLulu. "Lulu is one of the cutest cats out there. She has great big eyes and really soft fur. She reminds me of an anime cat, but only better–no crazy effects...though her purr could use a little more volume.
About me:Professional facts:BA in ArtDay Job: Desktop PublisherTrained in Photoshop, Indesign, gocco, my medium format camera, black and white darkroom, and the color darkroom.I am:I'm lover not a fighter who enjoys the company of people, the songs of birds, and an occasional Mia tai. Don't like mean people, but really who would. Don't own bowling shoes, but I did play in a league when I was in 5th grade. Other than art, my passion is traveling. My last trip took me to Kauai, Hawaii...lovely. "

Take a look at this item http://tinyurl.com/39o5qg as 50% of the proceeds go to Amnesty International.

To see all of her items, visit her shop http://tinyurl.com/346bp2
To learn more about her, and see pictures of Lulu, visit her blog http://mycatlulu.blogspot.com

Back to the daily grind...

2008-01-21T16:27:00.000-08:00

I really do like my full-time job except for the paperwork part of it and right now it is "crunch time" for paperwork. Hopefully I will be finished soon.

Keeping with my 'cat' theme for featuring shops, today I will be featuring kalicat. In her profile she writes, "Kalicat has trained in jewellery at Central St Martins and Hatton Gardens, in London. Mom of 2, she says: "I keep sane by painting and illustrating Fashion, jewelry-making and dreaming about all the things I will create in the near future". Each item may be made in gold, sterling silver or base metal, with the stones of your choice when available."

She has some fantastic rings in her shop. I really like this one http://tinyurl.com/2nrd3f , but I like this one too http://tinyurl.com/2w3v3c

Here is even more information about her from her profile.
"About me:I am an artist and illustrator http://www.catherinemarche.com, I am also a member of the Art Jewelry Collective http://artjewelrycollective.wordpress.com/I am a Self Representing Artist Jewelry Designer - SRAJD #0551"

You can find out more by visiting her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5051258or reading her blog http://kalicatdesigns.blogspot.com/

A Day Off!

2008-01-20T18:36:00.000-08:00

I'll spend some time working on paperwork but my daughter and I are going for manicures today. I also hope to take some better pictures of some of my items. I have a couple of things to relist, but the photos I have are awful.

Today's featured shop is Cats Paw Artifacts. With a name like that, how could I resist? From her profile she writes, "Judy Richards resides in Portland, Oregon where it rains this time of year. A well kept secret is that it doesn't rain all year around.Judy is a member of the Portland Bead Society, the ORBS (Oregon Regional Beadmakers Society) and the ISGB (International Society of Glass Beadmakers).Judy makes lampwork beads and designs jewelry - unique and hopefully artful jewelry. She is always striving for new ideas, new shapes in glass. Judy is inspired by nature (flowers, birds) depicted in glass. She loves abstract lampwork most of all with layers of glass and complexity. She is always striving to that goal." To read the rest you will need to visit her shop http://tinyurl.com/3d7zcu . While there check out her gorgeous lampwork beads. You can see my favorite bead http://tinyurl.com/396e8b and all of her other work. Check out her blog http://www.catldy99.wordpress.com/ and you will be amazed.

It is REALLY cold...

2008-01-20T15:54:00.000-08:00

... and I don't like cold weather, but all errands have been run so I am home to stay for the evening. I'm seriously thinking about a nap, but thought I'd do my featured shop so I don't forget.

Today it is LIZSTALEY. Here is an exerpt from her bio, "I grew up in Baltimore, but am now living in Greenville, NC. My mom got me into arts and crafts when I was really little (I wanted to help her paint ceramics when I was a baby, so she'd give me a paintbrush, a cup of water, and a rubber ducky. Took me awhile to figure out that it's supposed to change colors when you paint it though!). Ever since then I've loved to draw and create things.I love to crochet, make buttons, do drawings, sew, and come up with new ideas! " To find out more, you'll just have to visit her shop http://tinyurl.com/3bpd8n and read it for yourself.

She handcrafts a variety of items, but my favorites are her gloves. This pair is my favorite http://tinyurl.com/2vd2nc

To find out even more about her, visit her blog http://livewirechick.blogspot.com

Saturday At Last

2008-01-19T19:58:00.000-08:00

My favorite time on Saturday is 2:00, when my shift at the deli is over! I had to get a few things since we were having company for dinner. I still had time for a short nap before it was time to cook. Since this was not a dinner to impress, it was an easy meal to put together.

I was looking through the list and decided to feature DreamON. This is from DreamON's profile, "I always loved to cut, paste, paint and draw from my earliest memories. Creating art is what I do, it's built-in by my creator, He enables me, and I love it.I belong to several art groups in Florida and one in Colorado. The time I spend painting with my artist friends is my recreation, and I paint a lot.I value the presence of a recognizable subject in my paintings. I love it when the center of interest appears in the midst of background objects that aren’t so well-defined. I want watercolor to look like watercolor, and I want my paintings to have a painterly look, not a photographic copy. Therefore I am an impressionist, because I don’t want to over-control the media. I love to paint using a variety of techniques. Having taken an experimental art class for the last 4-5 years, I am likely to paint anything, and I'm always "playing."I will be sharing a percentage of the proceeds from patriotic items which I will continue to stock in my shop with the The Fisher House™ Foundation. It's a small thing I can do to support caring for our nation's military families."

You have to be impressed by this original work of art http://tinyurl.com/2w9muk. Visit her shop http://tinyurl.com/2sw948 to see all of her original art and prints. Learn more about her and her work by going to her blog http://DreamsAboutArt.blogspot.com/.

Inservice Day

2008-01-18T19:12:00.000-08:00

So it was s day full of paperwork. I'm still not finished, but it is time to take a break. Blog time!

Today I'm going to feature signaturesterling. In her profile she writes "Since my first trek into a Toronto bead shop two 1/2 years ago, I've been an avid beader and jewelry designer. I enjoy designing, creating, and just plain playing with a variety of beads. And yes, I AM a Buckeye fan - GO BUCKS! When I'm not beading, I love being a soccer mom - can you tell? I am active with other terrific, creative “Etsians” – the TBO (Tranquil Beading Oasis), the Bead Hive, JET (Jewelry on Etsy), EtsyMom, and EtsyBEAD. Need help finding these talented artists? Go to the Etsy home site and search for TBO, BHV, JETT, EtsyMom, and EtsyBEAD in tags, titles. You'll get a great list to choose from!Committed to high quality in supplies and design, I am a SRAJD (#1111), Self-Representing Artist Jewelry Designer."

She has so many beautiful pieces in her shop. You need to visit http://tinyurl.com/2hmh8h to see for yourself. One of my personal favorites is this one http://tinyurl.com/2cwgvm . My only grandchild is a "grandpuppy", but I really like this one too. http://tinyurl.com/2de3d6.
You can visit her blog at http://signature-sterling.blogspot.com/.

Snow!

2008-01-17T17:23:00.000-08:00

It didn't come early enough for an early dismissal, but it made the drive home interesting. I wonder if we'll have a delay tomorrow. actually I don't want one. Tomorrow is an inservice day and I have lots of work to do.

Today I have decided to feature craftymoose's shop. There is a great variety of items in her shop and you really need to check them out. This excerpt form her bio tells all she can do. "I have been crafting for as long as I can remember. I am self-taught and have enjoyed painting, needlework, quilting, polymer clay and jewelry making. Most recently, I have found myself drawn to beads and have returned to the art of french beaded flowers. I enjoy making original, one-of-a-kind butterflies & dragonflies. I am also introducing a new line of one-of-a-kind beaded art dolls and suncatchers. Custom requests are welcome."

This http://tinyurl.com/2cksky is one that really caught my eye when I browsed her shop. I think this http://tinyurl.com/yo83vg is absolutely beautiful. See for yourself. Just visit her shop http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=42753 or her blog http://craftymoosecrafts.blogspot.com/ and you will see what wonderful work she does!

Crazy Day

2008-01-16T19:47:00.000-08:00

Things just started happening and we were behind schedule at 9:30 and had to hustle the entire day. The day was over before I knew and all I could think of was all the things I had hoped to acomplish but didn't. Well, tomorrow is another day.

Today I am featuring Lazy Cat Gifts., which was created by three friends in Ann Arbor, MI. The cat part interested me, of course, after all I am purrfectlydevine! That they had grandmothers who crocheted (so did I) and now crochet (so do I) and make jewely (so do I) was somewhat uncanny and one of them, for the time, being libes less than 100 miles from me, you get the idea. An exerpt from their profile reads, "Two of them were in medical school at the University of Michigan and the third worked in a laboratory there. All of us had grandmothers who crocheted, however Kelly had the most experience. After honing our skills for several years making many gifts for many family members and friends, we decided to try to sell some of our creations! We had a good start at a local craft show and found Etsy.com while searching for a gentle way to beginning selling online. (Plus, Etsy comes with the bonus of a great community of artists!) Etsy is also great for us, because Kelly has moved to Philadelphia, while Allison and Stasia still live in Ann Arbor. However, we keep in touch every day! And, we are all so excited Kelly is moving back to Ann Arbor in June!We enjoy using the skills from our grandmothers to create wonderfully hip and modern pieces. We crochet in both yarn and wire, creating artisan crochet bead jewelry, scarves, hats, etc. We are constantly looking for ways to expand crochet, and we love making custom items!"

This is my favorite piece in their shop http://tinyurl.com/2uj4bh , but be sure to visit their shop, http://tinyurl.com/2p84wc , to browse. You can also visit their blog at http://lazycatgifts.blogspot.com

Trying to get ahead

2008-01-15T19:44:00.000-08:00

Since I think I may get behind over the weekend because I work both my jobs on Friday, I'm going to do another feature today. That way I hope to keep on track.

Cryztalvisions has 2 pairs of earrings in her shop that just jumped right off the monitor at me. Not really, but you get the idea. If I knew how to post a picture of each pair her, I would. I will post a tinyurl for each pair so you can see what I mean. You really need to take at look at these earrings. http://tinyurl.com/2kh7z3 and http://tinyurl.com/2n23ra

In her profile, she writes, "I have been fascinated by crystals and stones for as long as I can remember. I had some wonderful teachers during my childhood who passed on their passion for nature, geology, crystals and gemstones. I come from a long line of artistic souls on my father's side of the family. My great grandmother was a very talented artist who started painting late in life. She left behind some amazing oil paintings that I will always treasure. She also painted and fired china, she had a fantastic eye for detail and could paint tiny pictures small enough to fit on a thimble. My father was an accomplished, well rounded artist and crafts person and spent many years teaching art in the public school system.I've been creating unique pieces of jewelry for almost 20 years now, and I'm still excited by the process. I have an insatiable appetite for learning new techniques that push the boundaries of my creativity. Along the way I have also been drawn to studying and practicing various energy healing arts, like Reiki, chakra balancing, Earth based energy medicine, shamanic practices, and Angel Therapy. I have found combining my love of minerals, my artistic eye and skill in jewelry fabrication and design, along with my heightened sensitivity to energies creates a powerful synergy. I love to immerse myself in the creative process and I'm fascinated when some pieces seem to magically design themselves. I am pleased to share my passion with you here.I delight in creating these pieces! Each one is unique, with its own energy that I feel as I work with the materials. They transport me to a place of deep knowing, relaxation and happiness as I work. My pieces not only look wonderful when worn, but also carry with them the special healing energies of each gemstone or crystal. My work is a constant exploration of the interconnectedness of all life.It is my hope that you will find a very special piece that speaks to your heart. What's with the "Z" in Cryztalvisions? You may ask. It's an homage to one of my wonderful teachers who pronounced crystals: "creezzztals"."

Be sure to visit her shop at http://tinyurl.com/2jbfnt to look at all of her gorgeous pieces. Check out her blog at http://cryztalvisions.typepad.com/magic_stones_blog/

Snow Flurries Today

2008-01-15T18:23:00.000-08:00

Alas, that was the extent of it.

Today the shop I will be featuring is onathousandhills

She writes, "My name is Cheryl, and I love the outdoors! I also love playing with my beads and seeing what I can come up with to make.I can't remember how old I was when I first did any crafts, but I know it was pretty young. I went to a vocational high school and took 4 years of Clothing Shop there. I have always done a bit of different crafting hobbies, but found beads in a serious way about 5 years ago. My daughter was given a bead kit for recuperating after surgery, but wasn't very interested in it. I took it over and took off with my beading. I've had to put them on the back burner at times, when homeschooling and work got in the way. Now I am dedicating more time to be able to learn and grow in this art form. Yes, it IS an art form.God's creation is one of my favorite themes for my work, and I think everyone would have to agree how wonderful nature is."

This is my favorite piece from her shop, http://tinyurl.com/35hbyu is a beautiful Christmas ornament and it is not too early to be thinking about Christmas 2008!

She is a member of Proud member of Christian Artists Street Team http://castteam.multiply.com/ and Etsy Beadweavers http://etsy-beadweavers.blogspot.com/

Check out her blog at http://onathousandhills.blogspot.com/

No Delay!

2008-01-14T16:20:00.000-08:00

The weatherman was calling for a little snow and I was hoping for a 2 hour delay so I could sleep in, but no such luck. I much prefer 2 hour delays because the day counts so make-up day is necessary.

KatrinLermanJewelry

For my featured shop today I selected a relative newcomer to our ranks, KatrinLerman Jewelry. After you read her bio you'll see how interesting her background is. She writes, "I come from a family of makers and have been doing jewelry since I was a little girl (if making friendship bracelets is considered jewelry ; ) Originally from Germany, I settled in Massachusetts, US almost ten years ago. I can’t believe it has been such a long time already! Nonetheless, I draw inspiration from my German childhood as well as from the time spent here and from every little moment I can remember happening in between. Sometimes, photographs of finished jewelry pop into my mind and I have to quickly run to jot them down before they are gone. Other times, I have an idea in mind and it takes a lot of drawings until I have figured out how to best do what I was thinking about. Of course, those sketches are not written in stone and I often change a design while I am making the piece to arrive at the best end result possible. I graduated from the New England School of Art and Design at Suffolk University in Boston with a Degree of Fine Arts in Interior Design. Interior Design is all about color, form, and texture – and that’s what I’m integrating in my jewelry designs.Now that I have a beautiful baby girl, I try to spend every free minute (and those of you who have a baby know that there are few) creating jewelry. Naturally, I have lots more time thinking than creating and so my sketch book is filling up with ideas for years to come. I can’t wait to get working on all those ideas and designs!!!"

Visit her shop http://tinyurl.com/23gpwl to see her wonderful pieces. This particular one, http://tinyurl.com/2dbdxs is my favorite.

To learn more about this talented designer, visit her blog at http://katrinlermanjewelry.blogspot.com .

Cold, but Sunny

2008-01-13T08:40:00.000-08:00

Even though it is colder, the sunshine is keeping my spirits up! I have a busy day planned. I'm going to make Hog Maw for dinner. We all enjoy it, but it is time consuming to make, so I don't do it often. I plan to take some new photos for my etsy shop. There is a link in one of the boxes on the right. I have a mentor for my shop and I'm thrilled to be working with her. Here is link to her shop. http://tinyurl.com/2ta4sq

The shop I am featuring today is cserpent Designs and here is the tinyurl link to her shop.
http://tinyurl.com/2uvs8w

Here is an exerpt from cserpent's profile .

"I have a great time buying the parts needed to make my jewelry. I REALLY like the gorgeous artisan lampwork beads that are available through etsy as well as other online sites. My "inventory" is quite large so I really have to get designing more so I can share these beautiful beads with others. Sometimes I'll find one interesting bead or gemstone and that will be the kick start for a piece of jewelry. I really enjoy the creation process and get excited when I finish a piece and can share it with folks I know and with Etsy I can now share my creations with a much larger family."

To learn more aboput cserpent, you'll need to visit her shop (see the link above) or her blog. http://cserpentdesigns.blogspot.com/

While you are visiting, check out this piece, which just jumped right out to me. http://tinyurl.com/2jqxso

Working on a Resolution

2008-01-12T19:27:00.000-08:00

One of the things I wanted to accomplish this year was to improve sales in my etsy shop. So, as a way to accomplish this, I have joined a group dedicated to promoting other members of the group on their blogs. this will be my first entry in that endeavor.

The first shop I will be featuring is Electra Jewelry Design. Since I don't klnow how to make a cool looking link, I'll resort to using tinyurl.com which produced this link and I did check to see that it does work. http://tinyurl.com/2oxvzo She uses a variety a materials to create unique and beautiful pieces of jewelry. Two of her pieces really caught my eye when I visited her shop. My favorites in her shop include http://tinyurl.com/2u69kw and http://tinyurl.com/2j86ww .

She has been passionate about jewelry all her life. At the age of 15, she traveled to Greece for the first time and fell madly in love with 18k and 24k gold. The warm, rich color of this gold enchanced the stones and settings of each beautiful design. The fact that gold was so reasonable in Greece at that time allowed her to bring back amazing trinkets for her closest friends. She returned with scarab rings, filligree pendants and all sorts of interesting designs that thrilled each of the recipients. For years, she wore gold jewelry until discovering that silver was equally lovely and complimented some stones better than gold. The seeds must have planted early on and her first real attempt at jewelry design happened on a ski vacation. She decided to take a jewelry workshop on one particularly cold morning and loved the results.

Check out her complete blog http://elektrajewelry.blogspot.com/

Returning to Normalcy

2008-01-12T12:45:00.000-08:00

It is a relief to be getting back to some kind of normal. I feel like I have abandoned so many things for the past couple of months and now I need to catch up and reconnect. The weather has continues to be warmer than normal and that just lifts my spirits.

I've got a mentor from etsybead and I need to email her with what I need help with. Hopefully I can get soem more traffic, which would lead to increased sales.

I talked to the deli manager about cutting back my hours on Saturdays. That should start when the one person returns from surgery. I hope is that I won't be so tired when I come home so that I have energy to do things that make me happy instead of being so tired all I want to so is sleep.

Happy New Year!

2008-01-09T19:58:00.000-08:00

Not really. I have been sick as all get out for 2 weeks. My sister and I just passed the first anniversary of Mom's death. My father-in-law died last week. Hopefully, things will start looking better in the coming weeks.

On the brighter side, the weather has been unseasonably warm, which has helped to lift my spirits. My husband has the cast off his foot so we went for a ride on the scooter. We were able to take the grandpuppy for a walk without heavy winter outerwear.

I'm hoping to be more active on the etsy street teams that I belong to, etsybead, and BBEST. I just hope my jobs don't take up too much time and energy so I have the time and energy to devote to crafting my jewelry.

I'm in another treasury!

2007-12-19T16:23:00.001-08:00

I'm a member of etsybead but haven't done much due to life getting in the way. When I saw the current theme I was excited because I already had items listed that fit the theme and since it is a 2 week theme it seemed worth the effort to figure out what I needed to do. One of the members snagged a treasury and selected one of my items to go in it. No sales as of yet, but at least more views, so a few more people know I'm out there.

I'm also a member of BBEST and had a convo with someone who lives less than 2 miles away. Maybe we can meet at Starbucks or someplace like that.

Only 2 more school days until Christmas vacation. There are so many special activities going on that the days just fly. Today the chorus from another school came and performed for us. Tomorrow is the holiday dance and Friday is our sing-a-long. Families are invited and we sing holiday songs led by our music teacher. It is a fun time.

Hard to Believe

2007-12-13T12:39:00.000-08:00

I did not realize how long I been neglecting my blog. It seems like an eternity since I last posted. so much has happened. Thanksgiving has come and gone; the first one without Mom so that was hard. For the past 10 years the gathering was at her house. This year we went to my cousin's in Philadelphia. My one aunt, who usually came, was visiting family members in Boston so that was different. One of my cousins noted that this was the first time we were together without any of our parents present, so that was a bit emotional.

My sister and I had our annual "sister time" shopping for Black Friday bargains. It is not like that is the only time we do things together since we see each other 3 or 4 times a month and talk 2 or 3 times a week. We each got some great bargains.

I had been toying with the idea of an open house for my jewelry since etsy is not going well for me, and my sister scheduled one at her house. It went very well and when I have all orders filled I will have sold about 50 pieces. I had a smaller open house here and sold about 12 pieces so I am very happy. I am relisting etsy items that had expired, but I hadn't renewed in case they sold at one of the open houses. I'm also listing pieces that were made for the open house but had not sold.

My husband got his cast off this week and he does not have to go to physical therapy. His doctor said to ride the exercise bike to see if that would rehabilitate the foot.

My knee has been giving me problems again. I got a cortisone shot in it and was prescribed a knee brace. I'm waiting to see if I will be approved for Synvisc.

One of my uncles had brain surgery in October and passed away in November. One of my aunts (not the one whose husband just died) had gall bladder surgery this week.

I am still trying to get ready for Christmas. Our small tree is up and my cards are done. Still need to finish shopping and wrap gifts. I don't think I will be baking cookies this year. I just won't have time.

Busy Days!

2007-10-28T21:25:00.000-07:00

It seems hard to believe that October is almost over. It seems like so much has happened in a very short time. I've been a bit negligent in posting, but things in my life are moving right along. DH and I celebrated our birthdays in the past 2 weeks as did my sister. I went on my first, second, and third scooter ride, however, on the third ride, we laid the bike down. I have a few bruises to show for it. DH, on the other hand, has a broken foot. The boot that he wore on his other foot most of the summer is now on the other foot. The first few days he was in considerable pain, but that has eased quite a bit and he gets around quite well with the boot and/or crutches. Tonight at Wal-Mart he rode one of the motorized carts which surprised me, but I'm glad he did. He goes back to the doctor on Wednesday. I'm not sure what they will be looking for, since it took a CT scan to see the extent of the break.

Last week was not the best at school. It was full moon and it seemed to be adversely affecting many of the students. I was really glad when Friday was over. Hopefully everyone will have had a restful weekend and be refreshed and ready for a new week.

I'm thinking seriously about having an open house for my jewelry to pick up some business that way. I guess I need to get busy creating so I have ample inventory to make a nice show. My sister spent last weekend with members of a message board that she is on. I had made a bracelet for her to use as a contest prize and she got orders for 12 more so I really do need to get busy. I not sure what I want to do about etsy. Do I want to relist items as they expire or just wait until after the open house so I have a lot of items to list, which will keep the shop coming up in the time machine?

Pictures are my biggest problem. Taking clear ones, selecting a background to show of the pieces to their best advantage, good lighting, editing, and organizing them--all of these cause me great difficulty. I have pieces I could list, but I'm not up to dealing with the photography aspects of it, so they are not listed. There is so much more to selling jewelry than making it and saying look what I made.

Back to work

2007-10-15T18:59:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately all things must come to an end, and I went back to work today. I must say that I am tired and it wasn't really a very hard day. My knee is still a bit bruised and sore, but it is not too bad. I guess I'll see how tomorrow goes.

I found a thread on the etsy forum about exchanging blog links so I added a number of links to help people browse through etsy shops. Hopefully others will add a link to here and that will bring some traffic to my shop. BTW, I just added a few new pieces and expect to adding a few more in the very near future since I have a few pieces near completion. I also just got Photoshop; I now need to install it. I hope that will improve my pictures.

The big news is that on Saturday my DH passed the test for his motorcycle license. Now I need to get a helmet so I can ride with him. I'm excited about taking my first ride. His birthday was Saturday so he got a really good present.

It got cooler over the past few days so fall is here. I would like fall so much better if it didn't lead to winter. Of course, winter wouldn't be so be if I didn't have to go out in the bad weather

I've been busy!

2007-10-09T21:56:00.000-07:00

I am quite excited! Since I have been off I spent some money at the bead store and I have 3 new necklaces completed and 1 that is a work in progress. All I need to do is take pics so they can be listed. The problem is pricing. These necklaces will be more expensive than anything else I have listed. One is a "floater" necklace. I wore mine the other day and received several compliments so I handed out my business card and figured it was time to get one listed. One of the other pieces is made featuring top drilled Sworovski crystals. I think the piece is absolutely stunning and I am quite pleased with it. I just hope that someone else thinks so and buys it. The third necklace is gorgeous. It is made with top drilled pearls, semi-precious teardrop shapes, and Sworovski crystals. I plan to donate this as a raffle prize for the playground fund at the school where I teach. When I calculated what it cost to make, I was a bit surprised. I am going to check around, but if I list a piece similar to this one, it was be by far, the most expensive item I've listed on Etsy.

It has been awhile

2007-10-06T17:54:00.000-07:00

It seems like life is flying away from me. I need a 3 day weekend every week just to keep up, never mind get ahead. My surgery was on 9/28 and it went well. It seems like I spent all my time since the last post preparing for it. Pre-op testing had to be scheduled and done and I had to have my classroom in order for my sub. I'm going in Monday for inservice, since that will be computer work, but then will be off until the following Monday for sure, although the doctor said it I didn't think I could handle it he would give me more time.

My stitches came out yesterday and I got to see pictures taken during surgery. Thankfully, they were not bloody, but more like x-rays. (I have a weak stomach about such things!) It was explained to me that the inside of my knee was better than expected, however the outside was worse and needed more cleaning out. There was a piece of loose cartilige along with the tears. Arthritis was also found (no surprise there) but if One was to have arthritis in one's knee that would be a "good" place to have it. Have to look for the silver lining in the clouds!

I am getting back into making jewelry to list on etsy. I plan to try to get lots more done next week before I have to go back to work. I went to the bead store today armed with 4 coupons. Yipee!!! I have so many projects in mind. I would like to have a backlog of items to list on a regular basis, so even if I don't have to make things, I can list on a regular basis to keep the shop appearing in the time machine.

Of course, the bonus is 3 weekends off from the deli, but then it is 3 weeks with no pay from the deli. I guess everything has a trade-off.

Other big news is that my husband got a scooter, which is like a motorcycle but has an automatic transmission. There are other differences, but I couldn't tell you what they are. He had been looking and took me along and I talked him into a bigger one. I wanted a more comfortable seat and I liked the color better. Besides, I was thinking that with 2 of us on it, we would need a bit more power. The difference in price wasn't a big as I thought it would be. The first time he rode it, he was a bit intimidated by all the power, but he soon got over that and is glad I talked him into the larger bike. Everybody who sees it says they think it is neat and one neighbor pronounced it cute.

Right now, he is in the middle of motorcycle classes. If he passes the class, he will have his motorcycle license (he has a learner's permit now). Then he will be able to ride after dark and have a passenger. He's already said that before we head out on the road we will have to do parking lot practice, but first I need to get a helmet!

An eventful 2 weeks

2007-09-17T20:27:00.000-07:00

It seems like I haven't made a post in ages. Much has happened. I found out that I will need to have surgery on my knee to repair torn cartilige. In a way I'm looking forward to it in the hope tht the pain will end. As a bonus, I'll have some time to work on making jewelry. I hope to get an inventory built up so I can list regularly on etsy, even if I don't have time to make many pieces. Soon I will have 2 IEPs to write and they can be time consuming and there will be a firm deadline. During that time, jewery making will definitely be on the back burner. Another bonus is that I will get time (unpaid) off from the deli.

School is going quite well most days. One of the students got a personal care assistant and having an extra adult makes things less stressful.

My husband and I went to my 35th high school reunion. It is the first one that I have gone to. I was able to recognize most of the girls, but the guys were another matter. I said it was because the girls still had their hair. Looking at those I graduated with, I've aged fairly well. That made me feel pretty good.

My sister and I went to the attorney who is preparing our inheritance tax forms. The amount of paper involved is unbelieveable. The forms have to be mailed in duplicate and each set is at least 1/4" thick. We owe some, but we paid most of it in March to get a discount and we saved over $500. Now all that has to be done is to complete the income tax return for the estate and pay all the taxes that are due from the estate, which is in addition to inheritance tax.

The biggest news is that I finally had my first sale on etsy! The feeling is wonderful and I am on cloud 9. Maybe since I've had a sale I'll gain some momentum. At least, now I feel the desire to be creative and make jewelry reawakening within me.

The first week of school is over, and it was a good week!

2007-09-02T19:54:00.000-07:00

The first week of school this year was so much better than the first week last year. The deli was a problem this week, but I went to the store manager before I began work (the best defense is a good offense) and things went OK.

My crafting, and therefore Etsy, has stagnated since I went on vacation. I'm now trying to create a backlog of inventory so that I can list something regularly, even if I don't have time to create new items. Since I'm off tomorrow I plan on taking pictures of what I have finished. I'm also going to write the descriptions and save them in Word, so listing will be a pretty quick process. On the bright side, I've sold another piece locally. At least I now have the desire to make jewelry, which is more than I had going 2 weeks ago.

Busy week

2007-08-26T16:24:00.000-07:00

This was the last week before school begins. I put in some extra hours at the deli because I am a kind person. I also went in to school and worked one day. On Friday my sister and I went to Gettysburg Village, a factory outlet center and then on to Boyd's Bear Country for the Longaberger Basket Fest. The weather was oppressively hot and humid, but we had a great time. We each wove a peg basket with teddy bear tacks along the top. We each ordered personalized wooden lids that say Basket Fest 2007 and have pictures of bears on them. They had oodles of baskets there so we had to buy some.

Today my sister came and we worked on laying a peel-and-stick floor in the office. The floor that was there was probably the one onstalled in 1956 when the house was built. The lighter color floor make such a huge difference in the room. It really brightens the room. It also makes the paint look somewhat pathetic, so I guess we'll be painting. Make that he'll be painting.

I would so love to retire from the deli...

2007-08-21T17:22:00.000-07:00

...but all but one of my sales have come from there. It also helps finance my addiction to Sworovski crystals. The time I spend there is time that I don't have to work on promoting my etsy site and nothing is happening on my site so I do need to work on promotion. It seems like there is never enough help so I end up staying past my time to leave so I can get finished. I'm trying to begin networking with other bloggers in the hope of getting more visitors to my shop. I have a few ideas for pieces that I just need to find some time to make the items and that's is where the time at the deli comes in. During the school year I work there about 10 hours a week, which doesn't sound like much, but it really seems to cut into my weekends. You may ask why I just don't resign there are several reasons besides the ones listed previously. I guess the biggest one is that half of my pay (off the top) goes into a 401k. Another big one is I've been there almost 9 years and I do have paid holidays, 2 weeks paid vacation, and a Christmas bonus. Also if I resign and decide I need a part-time job in the future, I'd have to start all over. Sorry to ramble so, but the deli situation is problematic for me.

Can you tell I was excited about posting a link that works?

Success!

2007-08-20T21:30:00.000-07:00

I posted a link and it actually works! Can you tell that I am really excited. However, it is way past my bed time and I do have to work tomorrow so I'd best get some shut eye if I want ot have any energy left to work on some jewelry tomorrow night after work and whatever errands I have to do. I did sort through some of my new goodies that I bought on vacation so that I can see what I really have.

I'm practicing a new skill, I hope.

2007-08-20T20:37:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to make a link. I would like to place links to other blogs on my blog, but I don't even know how to make a link (except where I copy and the paste). So I'm going to try a few.

Purrfectlydevine's Jewelry Designs

Sales, but not on Etsy

2007-08-20T19:51:00.000-07:00

As much as I would like to quit my part-time job it seems that is the source of most of my sales. I just can't seem to get things moving on etsy. Of course nothing new was listed when I was on vacation, but I've only listed one item since I've returned. I need to get myself motivated (and to the bead store for a few things I need to complete a piece in progress). I did make a pair of earrings tonight (for someone at work), but I need to become more productive, and fast, especially since school starts next week and my free time will be limited.

Inservice

2007-08-14T17:46:00.000-07:00

The school year has officially begun. I went to inservice the past 2 days. They are necessary, but very exhausting days. The good part is that I got to see some colleagues that I rarelhy see during the school year because we work in different buildings. The downside, is that I am too tired to do any beading. Tomorrow will be a shorter day, so maybe I won't be so tired.

Back to reality

2007-08-12T15:44:00.000-07:00

Reality will come crashing back tomorrow morning. After a week of sleeping in and living leisurely, having to get up extra early for work tomorrow will be such a shock to my system. Vacation was wonderful. We stayed with relatives north of Atlanta, GA. On Sunday we went to the Georgia Aquarium and the New World of Coke. Since we wanted to be back at my aunt's house for dinner that was enough for one day. We used the mass transit system so we wouldn't have to deal with a car downtown. Because it was so hot and DH had to wear an aircast walking far was not an option. We went back downtown on Monday and toured CNN and saw Underground Atlanta. We had hoped to get tho the Hard Rock Cafe, but in the heat 5 blocks was too far for my DH to walk. There's always next year. On Tuesday we went to the Kangaroo Conservation Center near Dawsonville, GA. That was worth what we paid to go see it. Both DH and I thought it was the best tour that we did. If you want to go, be sure to check their website, http://www.kangaroocenter.com/ for ticket availability. They do only 2 tours a day Tuesday through Saturday and it is amazing how booked full they are months in advance. On Wednesday we met a friend from one of my message boards for lunch and had a marvelous time. Wednesday evening we went to Georgia's Stone Mountain for the laser light show.

I discovered a bead store near my aunt's house that seemed to specialize in Sworovski crystals. I spent lots of money and could have easily spent more becuase they had shapes and sizes that I'd only seen in catalogues.

I really don't want to go back to work tomorrow; I want to stay home and organize all my crystals.

Vacation!

2007-08-02T10:24:00.000-07:00

DH and I will be leaving tomorrow for a trip to Atlanta to visit relatives and see the things I haven't yet seen. I have been working on pieces that I want to take with me. I've made an aqua necklace, bracelet and earring set, a "switch out" necklace (use one chain and can change a 4 or 5 inch section that would be in the front. I have another set I am working on. So far I have the memory wire bracelet done and dangles for the earrings done. The necklace is a "work in progress" because I'm not sure what style I want it to be.

My husband found the dock for the camera, still in the unopened box, that disappeared when we moved. I put the camera on to charge last night. At least I'll stop going through batteries like crazy. I end up taking so many pictures of my pieces to post on Etsy that the batteries weren't lasting very long at all. Now, if I could just take better pictures.

Continuing to move forward

2007-08-01T20:41:00.000-07:00

Today I joined Etsy Bloggers. As I understand it we will promote Etsy and each other in our blogs. Etsy is the website where my online store is. Lissa73 held my hand to help me join Etsy and get my shop set up. Several people from The Dingleberry Patch have shops on Etsy in addition to Lissa and me. PinkPurl has one and so does Larissa07. I don't know what their motivation to open a shop was, but mine was that I enjoy beading and have made more jewelry than one person can wear of give as presents. The shop is to support my beading addiction. I also made my first purchase on Etsy today. I got some crystals at a good price from someone on the "shops needing a sale" thread. I have noticed a few more views, but no sales yet. It is hard to be creative when nothing is selling.

I have some catching up tp do!

2007-07-29T19:41:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday my sister came to lay a new floor in the office. The house was custom built in 1956 to include an office for the homeowner's insurance business and the tile on th4e floor was probably from 1956. We got about half of the floor done. My sister ended up with a swollen knee and I just ached all over. my husband helped some, but he has a stress fracture in his right foot and must wear this "boot" which is cumbersome. This week summer school ended with all the paper work that goes with the end of a school session. My hours have increased at the deli. Three new people were hired, but one has ben fired for stealing. I'm working a few extra hours this week before we leave for vacation on Friday. I'm looking forward to seeing my aunt and uncle.
Today was a fun day as we went to the company picnic for my husband's part-time job. There was good food, mini golf, Bingo, and door prizes. We won a $75 gift certificate to a local grocery store. The bad weather held off until it was almost over. Then we had terrible rain and it has been thundering ever since we got home.
This week I made a necklace, bracelet, and earrings set for me, as well as worked on some other pieces. I have a few unfinished pieces because I don't have the clasps I want to use. someone on Etsy has offered to make me a banner. I took pictures, but forgot to put the memory card in the camera. The pictures are in the camera's internal memory, but I don't know how to upload them to my computer. I guess I'll be retaking them. Back to beading for me.

a step forward

2007-07-24T18:17:00.000-07:00

I've joined etsybead. It seems like a great group of beaders. Now I need to figure out how to navigate through all that it has to offer. I managed to get an item listed tonight and have a special on it. I get some views,but few hearts and no sales. I guess that I must learn to be more patient. I did get 2 orders for lanyards where I work part-time. At least it helps offset the cost of what I buy for myself since beads and findings seem to to jump into my hand. I guess I need to go make some lanyards.