tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83124844908129875342024-03-14T00:15:33.148-07:00Michabella CreationsThe Crazy Life of a Stay at Home Mom and Jewelry Designer! Join me in my ventures through motherhood and business.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger96125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-89286604773444451672009-12-23T07:06:00.001-08:002009-12-23T07:10:22.162-08:00Merry Christmas<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SzIyr4fahoI/AAAAAAAAAS8/6J7JW2keeY8/s1600-h/pictures2008+1503.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418449031160039042" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SzIyr4fahoI/AAAAAAAAAS8/6J7JW2keeY8/s320/pictures2008+1503.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#006600;">It's been too long since I posted. I have had a very busy holiday season and I'm very grateful for all our wonderful customers. I want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas! I wish you joy, peace and love!</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-15085005057010195202009-11-09T18:37:00.000-08:002009-11-09T18:51:58.286-08:00Open For Business<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SvjTFMEEaXI/AAAAAAAAASs/orupg06u-bM/s1600-h/pictures2008+1216.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 401px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 231px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402299839122008434" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SvjTFMEEaXI/AAAAAAAAASs/orupg06u-bM/s400/pictures2008+1216.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#666600;">Even though it took longer than I'd hoped, I finally opened <a href="http://www.michabella.etsy.com/">my Etsy shop</a>!! I'm very excited to be apart of such a great community. I hope you will have a look and let me know what you think. I've decided to feature my gemstone and vintage pieces in my shop, as well as our Cancer Awareness line, which will be moving over in a bit. Above is one of my newer creations. It is a re-purposed necklace that was originally my great-grandmother's. It is comprised of vintage glass beads, vintage chain and a large Swarovksi crystal pendant. My grandmother believes it is from the 1950's. Cool, huh?! The lovely model is one of my best friends.</span></div><div><span style="color:#666600;">With thousands of sellers on Etsy, it's very nice to meet some that are nice as well as talented. I'm lucky to have found both in my <a href="http://creativebloggers.ning.com/">Creative Bloggers</a> group (you are a member aren't you)? Karen of <a href="http://http//www.chatbugkaren.com/windingthreads/">Winding Threads</a> creates lovely bags in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/kreatedbykaren">Etsy shop</a>. Viktoria of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/visart">VisArt</a> creates lovely polymer clay beads and is having a 20% off sale right now! I hope you'll visit these lovely artists and their blogs.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-30545147641480022302009-11-01T18:51:00.000-08:002009-11-01T19:02:21.781-08:00Make and Take Jewelry Class at Hello Bluebird<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Su5K8joDrVI/AAAAAAAAASg/JvJ9L0iCXIY/s1600-h/MichabellaMakeTake.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 358px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399335407479663954" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Su5K8joDrVI/AAAAAAAAASg/JvJ9L0iCXIY/s400/MichabellaMakeTake.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;">I am excited to be teaching my first class at <a href="http://www.hellobluebird.net/">Hello Bluebird</a> this Wednesday evening! If you're in the area, I hope you will join me in learning some techniques and also making a great pair of earrings! You can register by calling the shop at: 610-750-6642</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-87641072531546915752009-10-20T17:51:00.001-07:002009-10-20T17:58:25.474-07:00Giveaway: Win A Pair of Vintage Lucite Earrings!!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/St5bORCOvLI/AAAAAAAAASY/epuessJFhzg/s1600-h/MichabellaGive.gif"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 180px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394849704285486258" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/St5bORCOvLI/AAAAAAAAASY/epuessJFhzg/s400/MichabellaGive.gif" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#00cccc;">Would you like to <em>win a pair of vintage lucite earrings? </em>We are partnering with <a href="http://www.styleepiphany.com/">Style Epiphany</a> for the launch of their site, to offer you an opportunity to win a pair of these fun, lightweight, and trendy earrings! Available in 8 colors, they are not yet available on our website. For now, this is your chance to own a pair of these. All you have to do is visit this link, and leave your most 3 favorite pieces from our site: <a href="http://styleepiphany.com/2009/10/win-a-set-of-vintage-lucite-earrings-from-michabella-creations/">http://styleepiphany.com/2009/10/win-a-set-of-vintage-lucite-earrings-from-michabella-creations/</a> *Hurry, the giveaway ends this Sunday, 10/25!</span></div><div><span style="color:#00cccc;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#00cccc;">There is also a *special discount* you will find on the link as well! Good luck!</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-84055485104220198462009-10-19T06:10:00.000-07:002009-10-19T06:24:11.858-07:00Think Pink<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Stxoa9bUewI/AAAAAAAAASQ/8S74OIADN-I/s1600-h/pictures2008+774.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 227px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394301266058050306" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Stxoa9bUewI/AAAAAAAAASQ/8S74OIADN-I/s320/pictures2008+774.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#663333;">It's halfway through October. Fall is here in many parts of the country. The temperatures are cooler and the leaves are changing into beautiful shades of red, yellow, and orange. Halloween is nearing and many kids (and adults) are anxious to dress up and go trick-or-treating. But the color that I associate with October is pink.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#663333;">As many of you know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. My grandmother was diagnosed with Breast Cancer 7 years ago, and thankfully, is in full remission and doing well. My grandmother has always been one of my best friends and I'm blessed to have her around and to be able to see my daughter grow. Chloe, by the way, LOVES her Memaw! However, not everyone is as fortunate as I am. There are too many women, and men, who die every year from Breast Cancer. That's why Cindy and I have created a <a href="http://www.michabellacreations.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=7&zenid=e74dd14f550e2b44933c3f292611e7a1">Cancer Awareness line</a>, where a portion of the proceeds go to the research and support of those suffering, or to prevent further suffering. I hope you will find something you like and will help us to donate to a worthy cause.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#663333;"><a href="http://epdesigns.com.au/blog/">Elena</a>, a fellow blogger and talented artist who repurposes items, does a weekly Pink Saturday. She has so many wonderful pieces she shares, I hope you'll pay her a visit.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-7077054519189577072009-10-18T13:44:00.001-07:002009-10-18T14:04:44.650-07:00I'm Taking The Plunge<span style="color:#999900;">I'm officially starting on our <a href="http://www.michabella.etsy.com/">Etsy shop</a>, which I hope will be up and running in a few days. I've been contemplating this for quite some time now, but as Etsy has really grown into <em>the</em> handmade marketplace, I've decided it's the right time. I will let you all know when it's officially open for business! I recently visited <a href="http://http//retrochique-jamie.blogspot.com/2009/09/helpful-websites-for-etsy-shopkeepers.html">Jamie's blog</a> and she has some great tips for Etsy shopkeepers. I'm going to be reviewing this, thanks Jamie!</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#999900;">Cindy and I have also been contemplating for awhile now about what the right type of shows are for us to be participating in. It seems as though we wind up not making much of a profit after we figure in travel, hotel expense for some, supplies, food, etc. We've done quite a variety of shows over the past 2 years and have ruled out the ones we know we definitely won't do again. My good bloggy buddy Annette, has a <a href="http://http//annettepiperjewellery.blogspot.com/2009/09/handmade-and-award.html">post</a> about a recent experience as a first time vendor at a show (check out the gorgeous earrings as well)! Our goal is to start vending at wholesale shows, which it turns out, is very expensive! So if any of you dear readers know of any great shows Cindy and I must check out, please list it in your comment :)</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-48126513553200321742009-10-06T06:30:00.000-07:002009-10-06T07:11:17.288-07:00My Work Featured On the Runway: Boston Fashion Week!<div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SstKt4vwD1I/AAAAAAAAASA/OI0tv75EZTg/s1600-h/pictures2008+1075.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389483531266166610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 206px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SstKt4vwD1I/AAAAAAAAASA/OI0tv75EZTg/s320/pictures2008+1075.jpg" border="0" /></a> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389488978334363506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 205px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SstPq8qAr3I/AAAAAAAAASI/2Y75UF93zgg/s320/pictures2008+1084.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#009900;">I am back from Boston and am excited to report that some of my pieces were chosen by <a href="http://www.keithlissner.com/">Keith Lissner</a> for his runway show! If you are not familiar with Keith, he was a contestant on Bravo TV's The Fashion Show, which aired this past spring. He is a very talented designer, with some of his pieces being worn by celebrities, including Janet Jackson! His pieces were lovely, and I wish I could have gotten some good pics of his show. If only I had a better camera!</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;">Keith liked my dangly and bold earrings, which he chose for his models. All the girls either had short hair or had their hair pulled back as to see my earrings! Above are some of the earrings Keith chose for his show. The first pair are gold-filled chandeliers with lots of citrine and peridot. The second pair are a lovely, plump Rose Quartz briolette with gold-filled chain. You can purchase them at <a href="http://www.michabellacreations.com/">my shop</a>!</span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-69785310052519634982009-10-01T17:44:00.000-07:002009-10-01T18:07:40.023-07:00Emerging Trends Event: Boston Fashion Week<div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387798763023174562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 294px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 247px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SsVObd9JC6I/AAAAAAAAARg/-iDF2oILyI4/s320/pictures2008+1061.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387799153166059874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 264px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SsVOyLWdCWI/AAAAAAAAARo/JK_n_8Te8Xk/s320/pictures2008+1065.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><div><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#339999;">I'm not quite sure why I've waited until now to share this with all of you, but I'm participating in Boston Fashion Week tomorrow!! I'm super excited, nervous, stressed out, and exhausted. I've been working very hard the past 3 weeks after I found out I was going to be exhibiting my line of handcrafted jewelry. I will be a part of the <a href="http://www.theemergingtrends.com/">Emerging Trends</a> event, which is being held at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel & Towers. The event will enable up-and-coming designers the unique opportunity to showcase their collections to hundreds of fellow fashion enthusiasts, retailers, press, and media.</span></div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387799646862901378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 314px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 280px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SsVPO6g9AII/AAAAAAAAARw/HrWtW4Kw_dk/s320/pictures2008+1079.jpg" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387802407780803346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SsVRvnvE4xI/AAAAAAAAAR4/63KVnMP7tmE/s320/pictures2008+1067.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;">I think this is the biggest show I've ever done and I'm really hoping it goes well! I've made a lot of new pieces, many of which were firsts for me. I've worked with some unique gemstones because I really wanted my creations to stand out. Here are a few of the pieces I've created for the event. The first picture is a statement necklace made of Biwa stick pearls in a pretty silvery green shade. I've accented them with tiny green Swarovski crystals, sterling chain, and a magnetic clasp. The second picture doesn't do the lovely Mystic Blue Topaz briolettes justice. Nonetheless, I think they're gorgeous dangling from sterling leaf chandeliers. The piece above was hard to photograph. It's solar quartz, which is a very rare gemstone. It's accented by faceted green onyx on a gold-filled chain. The last piece I will share is new for me. The collage necklace is made with antique brass findings and chain. What do you think?</span></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-49734272042409696752009-10-01T17:21:00.000-07:002009-10-01T17:30:41.884-07:00The HoPo Shindig<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SsVJeUS2XwI/AAAAAAAAARY/3CI9wQjFPp8/s1600-h/shindig071208c.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387793314411339522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 196px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SsVJeUS2XwI/AAAAAAAAARY/3CI9wQjFPp8/s320/shindig071208c.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#663333;">I am gracing you with two blog posts today. Call it procrastination, but I have some things I want to share with you. First is the <a href="http://www.thehodgepodgery.com/blog">Ribbon Cutting Ceremony </a>and Grand Opening Celebration of the <a href="http://www.thehodgepodgery.com/">HodgePodgery</a>. I wrote about this lovely shop a few weeks ago, as I am teaching jewelry classes there. Dawn and her daughter, Jessica are lovely ladies and they have lots of fun in store. Their ribbon cutting was postponed back in August, so they're super excited to finally have it tomorrow evening. If you're in Central PA, pay them a visit!</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-81713076402125958402009-09-26T15:53:00.001-07:002009-09-26T16:05:00.810-07:00Meet Our New Puppy<div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Sr6bu7YmWnI/AAAAAAAAARI/-QoHYpQccrg/s1600-h/pictures2008+1048.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385913434898848370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Sr6bu7YmWnI/AAAAAAAAARI/-QoHYpQccrg/s400/pictures2008+1048.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:georgia;color:#996633;">Last week, to the utter delight of my daughter, we got another puppy. As you loyal readers probably know, we had to put our miniature dachshund, <a href="http://michabellacreations.blogspot.com/2008/09/in-memory-of-andy.html">Andy</a>, down a year ago this month. It's taken awhile to mourn the loss of him, and while our new puppy will never replace him, we felt it was time. Now, I had forgotten about the crying in the middle of the night, the biting on everything, and the "accidents". Truly I don't remember Andy keeping us up at night, but I have to say that before I had Chloe, I was a pretty sound sleeper. Not only does Chloe frequently get up in the middle of the night, but now so does the puppy. The lack of sleep is starting to get to me!</span></div><div><span style="color:#996633;"></span> </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385915170627401698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Sr6dT9eiN-I/AAAAAAAAARQ/Yz48V0hPB-Y/s320/pictures2008+1057.jpg" border="0" /><span style="color:#996633;">Now I'm sure you're wondering what we named the puppy. Andy had gotten a nickname because of all his peeing in the house. Not quite sure how or why, but we started calling him Weber, as in Potsy Weber. Chloe insisted we name the puppy Weber, and since she has taken the loss of Andy so hard, I obliged. It's kind of weird to have a puppy that looks almost identical to our old dog, and walking around yelling Weber. Nonetheless, we are very happy to have him in our lives. I can't say the same about our cat, though!</span><br /><div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-2168729367750636492009-09-17T20:43:00.000-07:002009-09-17T20:57:25.326-07:00My First Jewelry Class<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SrME7Mc0spI/AAAAAAAAARA/yPOUSuPhUdw/s1600-h/hodgepodgery.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382651394638787218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 310px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SrME7Mc0spI/AAAAAAAAARA/yPOUSuPhUdw/s400/hodgepodgery.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#999900;">I will be <a href="http://thehodgepodgery.com/classes-and-workshops/byob-jewelry-class/?1a785e30">teaching my first jewelry class </a>Friday at the Hodge Podgery in Harrisburg. This lovely shop is owned by mother and daughter, Dawn and Jessica. <a href="http://www.thehodgepodgery.com/">The Hodge Podgery</a> is dedicated to promoting the independant arts & crafts movement in PA. Described as "A Consignment Shop and Studio for Recycled, Repurposed Arts and Crafts in Midtown Harrisburg." I am very excited for my "BYOB Jewelry Classes". This week we are going over the basics and making a pretty brass and crystal pearl necklace and lucite leaf earrings. What a great way to spend a night out with friends!</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-64253062832103438662009-09-08T03:32:00.000-07:002009-09-08T20:15:04.803-07:00Back To School<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Sqcctz4p6rI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/ougzPe13P3E/s1600-h/pictures2008+1034.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379299853264874162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 221px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Sqcctz4p6rI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/ougzPe13P3E/s320/pictures2008+1034.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#999900;">The past few weeks have been quite a whirlwind! My family and I had a wonderful, if not painfully hot, trip to Disney World. Right before we left, I had a weekend show in MD which had been planned before my vacation. Upon return home from Disney, I had 5 days to get my house back in order and get my little girl ready to start pre-school. Chloe had 4 days of school last week and it was quite bittersweet to see her go. Thankfully for both of us, she goes for 3 hours in the morning. It is a nice little break, but I can't help but be a little sad at how big my baby is getting. It's been quite a journey and I'm so blessed to have her as my daughter.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#999900;">Of course I'm not the only one getting their little ones ready for the start of the school year. I see Melanie over at <a href="http://bagsbymelaniec.blogspot.com/">Bags by Melanie</a> is just as crazy as I am! While she's getting her son ready for school (poor little guy has a broken wrist), she's also working on orders. I have to say I've been blessed with two custom orders this past week! She's also working on a Christmas tree skirt for her mom. Can't wait to see it once it's done!</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#999900;">Carol of <a href="http://www.shwanda.com/">Shwanda</a> has a blended family with 5 kids at 5 different schools! Wow, I can't even imagine! Carol has some great posts that deal with her life, one of which I'm going to be sharing with a family member who has just gone through a divorce. Shelley from <a href="http://imstillstandingafterallthistime.blogspot.com/">I'm Still Standing</a> has a wonderful blog about her life, which includes her lovely daughter who is disabled. She's also getting into the swing of things in getting her kids back to school. </span></div><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#999900;">The picture above is of one of my new pieces. It's so perfect for fall, with a deep wooden pendant, that's accented with a cascade of olive jade. It's all done on a natural brass chain and is long enough to wear over your heavier tops.</span><br /><div><span style="color:#999900;"></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-39291680397760035852009-09-01T18:41:00.000-07:002009-09-01T18:52:43.680-07:00Hello Bluebird Grand Opening<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Sp3PkE3sa5I/AAAAAAAAAQw/_m1UVkpYIgI/s1600-h/flyersingleopening.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376681748839820178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 347px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Sp3PkE3sa5I/AAAAAAAAAQw/_m1UVkpYIgI/s320/flyersingleopening.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#00cccc;">I was fortunate enough to meet <a href="http://allmimsy.squarespace.com/">Alex McCarty</a> through <a href="http://twitter.com/helloblubird">Twitter</a> and am very excited for her shop to open this Thursday! <a href="http://www.hellobluebird.net/">Hello Bluebird</a> is a brick and mortar store in West Reading, PA that specializes in promoting the indie craft movement. I am so blessed to have some of my jewelry in the shop, some of which sold already!! If you are in the area, please join us for a fun-filled night.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-2778701783776186382009-08-14T05:44:00.000-07:002009-08-14T05:51:58.570-07:00Down By the Bay<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SoVdoXiUp9I/AAAAAAAAAQo/GBCFku9ecXA/s1600-h/pictures2008+983.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369801078803310546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SoVdoXiUp9I/AAAAAAAAAQo/GBCFku9ecXA/s320/pictures2008+983.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SoVdW-VsnLI/AAAAAAAAAQg/IFxlfy6BNBs/s1600-h/pictures2008+994.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369800779981692082" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SoVdW-VsnLI/AAAAAAAAAQg/IFxlfy6BNBs/s320/pictures2008+994.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#339999;">I mentioned I have a show this weekend. I will be at the <a href="http://www.hdgartshow.com/">46th Annual Havre de Grace Arts Show</a> in Maryland. It is held at Tydings Memorial Park and overlooks the Chesapeake Bay. This is my first time doing the show and I hope it goes well. Here are a few new pieces I'll be showing this weekend!</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span></div><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-22912601049013191252009-08-12T19:47:00.000-07:002009-08-12T20:32:30.401-07:00Home Sweet Home<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SoOIzKLgSII/AAAAAAAAAQY/oL2ns0cUiQo/s1600-h/pictures2008+996.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369285593243076738" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SoOIzKLgSII/AAAAAAAAAQY/oL2ns0cUiQo/s320/pictures2008+996.jpg" border="0" /></a> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369285347360618434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SoOIk2Mjt8I/AAAAAAAAAQQ/9c0g2tDmTJQ/s320/pictures2008+995.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><div><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#999900;">This week I've been home a lot. Not only do I have a 2 day show this weekend, which I'll post about tomorrow, but my family leaves for Disney World on Tuesday!! Needless to say, I'm prepping for both. Making jewelry, working on orders, and making sure everything is caught up in my home for when I come back Sunday night. Monday will be spent packing for myself and little Chloe. </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#999900;">My home is nothing large. It's certainly not my dream home by any means. I make jewelry at the kitchen table for goodness sakes! Ah, to have my own studio! Brittany from <a href="http://greer5intexas.blogspot.com/">The Greer 5</a> just had a <a href="http://greer5intexas.blogspot.com/2009/08/my-dream-home-1.html">post</a> about her dream home. I'm hoping to move into mine one day soon. </span><span style="color:#999900;">Speaking of being home, Theresa from over at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5999145">TiLT Creations</a> is home (and back sewing) from a nice family vacation. Take a look at her great <a href="http://tiltcreations.blogspot.com/2009/08/where-have-i-been.html">pics</a>! </span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#999900;">A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of winning this dachshund print from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5527071">ChloeJessica</a>. Jessica was sweet enough to send a bonus print, the one I picked as my fave in her giveaway. I just love them! Ever since my doxie passed away last year, my home hasn't been the same. They will brighten things up a bit around here. Check out her <a href="http://chloejessica.blogspot.com/">blog</a> for some cute pics of Chloe the doxie and some new items she's working on!</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#999900;"></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#999900;"></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#999900;"><a href="http://http://www.michabellacreations.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=9_13&products_id=78"></a></span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-30445012189920915182009-08-06T05:49:00.000-07:002009-08-06T06:03:55.134-07:00Classy Closet Blog Swap: Guest Post By Kim<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SnrTodw_rNI/AAAAAAAAAQI/EYz-rKvt_YM/s1600-h/wineglass.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366834598103723218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 147px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 149px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SnrTodw_rNI/AAAAAAAAAQI/EYz-rKvt_YM/s320/wineglass.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I joined the <a href="http://theclassycloset.ning.com/">Classy Closet Blog Swap</a>, and here is the guest post from Kim of <a href="http://www.mission-mommy.com/">Mission-Mommy</a>. Enjoy!</div><div> </div><div>I'm pleased to be participating in the Classy Closet Blog Hop with Michelle. I'll be taking over this blog for now, so bare with us! :)</div><div>I'm Kimberly, a stay home married mom with 3 children: Caleb-age 6, DJ-age 5, and Allison-age 2. I'm not your typical mother, and if you have a minute, I'll tell about what my life has been like since having my first child, Caleb, when I was just shy of 15. </div><div>I grew up in a close, loving family. My parents were always very loving and supportive. I also had a great extended family who helped in rearing me. I was an honor roll student who never got into any trouble.Then, when I went from elementary school to middle school, I went through a rebellious phase. I never got into drugs or drinking, but my closest friends had already had sex, and naturally I wanted to see what that was like, and also I didn't want to be the known as the last one left. I realize as I've gotten older how stupid I was at the time, but what happened then changed my life for the better.When I had sex for the first time, I never imagined that I would get pregnant! What teen does? When I first realized what was going on, my period was very regular, so I just knew it. I was scared, ashamed,worried. I couldn't tell my parents! I actually went 2 months hiding this from my family, until a friend told a nurse at my school, who naturally told my mother.My mom was heart-broken. To say the least, I was embarressed that I had gotten myself into that situation in the first place. I had contemplated getting an abortion, but my mom found out before the event could happen, which now I'm glad I never went through with that. She's strongly against it. I am now as well. I feel you should never opt for an abortion in any situation, please choose adotion if youfeel you can not handle being a parent.Pregnancy as a teenager is not fun. You stand out, everyone is talking about you, and you feel everyoneis making fun of you. More than likely they are. It's hard on your body, mind, family, and school life. It's not easy, and it's not even the hardest part of your journey in motherhood.To speed my story along, I went through my pregnancy, with complications, and had a beautiful 8.7 oz.baby boy. My family helped me tremendously while I was attending school. I never went out with friends,which was hard at times. I wanted to be the mom to my son, not just a birth mother, so to speak.I graduated two years early at 16. I wanted to enjoy the special moments with my son, and thankfully,my mom actually pushed me to. She had to work and my grandmother took care of mewhile she was at work. I had two other children, thanks to my bad experiences with several birth control methods. I was a singlemom up until 2008, when I married the man who gave me my oldest child. We've been married a little over a year now. I've started a blog this year, <a href="http://www.mission-mommy.com/">Mission-Mommy.com</a>. I first started as a frugal gal, which naturally as a newlywedcouple with 3 young kids we have to be, but have grown into working with well known brands and companies to offer innovative products to my readers. It's fun, exciting, and gives me something other than endlesshours of pretend play, which I love, but every mom needs a little bit of time enjoying what they like to do for themselves. I stumbled into blogging, and it's where I'm staying until I eventually return to college to finish my teaching degree.</div><div>Kimberly</div><div><a href="http://www.mission-mommy.com/">http://www.mission-mommy.com</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-52150943728099047792009-07-30T11:57:00.000-07:002009-07-30T12:26:57.745-07:00Christmas In July<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SnHx9t9Nq6I/AAAAAAAAAP4/JYv1yBdIRao/s1600-h/SnowmanBauble_MED.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364334673785629602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SnHx9t9Nq6I/AAAAAAAAAP4/JYv1yBdIRao/s320/SnowmanBauble_MED.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><div><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#006600;">Well, it's the end of July already (where has the summer gone)? A lot of people are starting to think about the holidays with all the great Christmas in July sales that are going on. I came across this lovely ornament from Gretchen of <a href="http://www.chichiboulie.com/">Chichiboulie</a> and just had to share. I just love snowmen, and Christmas is about my favorite holiday. Gretchen is a very talented designer and illustrator who lives in France. She's also the mommy to 3 little ones. You must check out Gretchen's <a href="http://theboulieblog.com/">blog </a>for some great art and fun goings on!</span></div><div><span style="color:#006600;"></span> </div><br /><div><span style="color:#006600;"></span></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364336491166044242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 321px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 298px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SnHzngOeEFI/AAAAAAAAAQA/AJ39_h-vD-w/s320/hilary.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><br /><div><span style="color:#006600;">Speaking of the holidays, how incredible would this necklace be for all those special occassions?! <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5522731">Hilary Johnson </a>is a very talented jewelry artist whom I've been acquainted with for some time. She is also very knowledgeable about social media, so pay her <a href="http://57designstudio.blogspot.com/">blog</a> a visit for some good reads (she's also very gracious)! Tell her I sent ya!</span></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-54495577966662292009-07-23T06:11:00.001-07:002009-07-23T06:13:21.263-07:00Happy 4th Birthday Chloe!!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Smhh1Tf_TdI/AAAAAAAAAPo/qp7fN06Yq50/s1600-h/pictures2008+855.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361642924779982290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Smhh1Tf_TdI/AAAAAAAAAPo/qp7fN06Yq50/s320/pictures2008+855.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-28590279212682370402009-07-16T04:21:00.000-07:002009-07-16T04:31:09.467-07:00Where I Will Be This Weekend<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Sl8N16ozWlI/AAAAAAAAAPg/LnDb0RiFY7o/s1600-h/PDM-email-flyer-side-2.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359017301518801490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 207px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Sl8N16ozWlI/AAAAAAAAAPg/LnDb0RiFY7o/s320/PDM-email-flyer-side-2.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;">If you live in or around Philadelphia, I hope you will join me this coming Saturday for the <a href="http://www.philadelphiadesignersmarket.com/">Philadelphia Designer's Market</a>! This is their first event, but it is gaining alot of press. I'm really looking forward to being a part of it and meeting some other great, independant designers! The event is free and, in case you can't make it out, will be held at the Broad St. Ministry, 315 S. Broad St. The first 250 guests will recieve a goody bag filled with samples! The event runs from 11-6. Wish me luck :)</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-72220484474127695872009-07-07T11:32:00.000-07:002009-07-07T11:58:00.741-07:00Time Flies...<div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SlOVBbF9l3I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/38T9Wqb1NzY/s1600-h/freshlycrafted.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355788233558824818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SlOVBbF9l3I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/38T9Wqb1NzY/s320/freshlycrafted.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#999900;">...when you're busy! I've yet again neglected my poor blog, I'm so sorry! My little girl is just recovering from her stint with the chicken pox. I hated seeing her so itchy and uncomfortable! I've also been busy on the business front. I have been working with two ladies whom I've met on <a href="http://twitter.com/"><strong>Twitter </strong></a>(love it!) who are both in the process of opening shops. I'm happy to report that I will be supplying both of them with some of my <strong>handcrafted jewelry</strong>! I'm so excited for the shops to open. I also have a show next weekend, so I've been busy working on<a href="http://www.michabellacreations.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=25&zenid=5a22810de6e7bbc0a7570275fbf24927"> new creations</a>.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#999900;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#999900;">This week I will be featuring two of my fellow <a href="http://creativebloggers.ning.com/">Creative bloggers</a>, both of which I'm particularly fond of. Kelly of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5547044">Macaroni and Glue</a> is a very talented lady. I admire her ability to be a mom to a little girl, design <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6755563">pretty <strong>stationery</strong></a>, and run a beautiful <a href="http://macaroniandglue.blogspot.com/">blog</a>. I fell in love with these pretty bird thank you cards. I have been wanting to find something a little more personal to include with my orders. With a few tweaks in color, I think this may be it!</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#999900;"></span></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355791670883566034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 269px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SlOYJgICwdI/AAAAAAAAAPY/RwFpRIiz1b0/s320/earthexpressions.jpg" border="0" /><span style="color:#999900;">Susy of </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5176871"><span style="color:#999900;">Earth Expressions</span></a><span style="color:#999900;"> creates graphic pendants and other pieces of jewelry. I featured one of Susy's pendants in a Gift article that was featured last year. I particularly love this one of a kind bird pendant. The birdie is seen protecting her nest. This would be so sweet for a mom, or any bird lover. Susy also has some great <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13586485">rings</a> that are perfect for summer!<br /></span><div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-56594925579018819862009-06-24T06:22:00.000-07:002009-06-24T06:38:31.728-07:00Just In Time For Summer<div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SkIqzDROhlI/AAAAAAAAAOw/ysGzKhvcICo/s1600-h/patriotic-Dragonflies-colla.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350886363808826962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 232px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 186px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SkIqzDROhlI/AAAAAAAAAOw/ysGzKhvcICo/s200/patriotic-Dragonflies-colla.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#339999;">This week's <a href="http://creativebloggers.ning.com/">Creative Bloggers </a>are very talented in their respective crafts. While I'm not much for the heat that <strong>summertime</strong> brings, I do love the 4th of July. The holiday reminds me of how fortunate I am to live in America and have the freedoms I do. I also like the picnicing and the fireworks! This collection by Kim of <a href="http://www.thepolkadotpress.com/">The Polka Dot Press</a> is perfect for this time of year. Combining <strong>patriotic </strong>symbols and beautiful dragonflies, these notecards and notepads scream summer!</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350887746691487986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 174px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SkIsDi6JWPI/AAAAAAAAAO4/QR1kExSGEL0/s200/castocreations.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;">I've been acquainted with Megan of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=10445">Casto Creations</a> for some time through social networking. I was thrilled when she joined us, and even more thrilled when I saw these <strong>earrings</strong>! Beautiful <strong>Mother Of Pearl</strong> starfish are wire wrapped with silver wire to highlight these glorious beads. My favorite thing about summer is the chance to go the beach, and these <strong>earrings </strong>remind me of a perfect vacation!</span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-75688369911624604782009-06-13T05:51:00.000-07:002009-06-13T06:07:14.428-07:00Creativity<span style="font-family:georgia;color:#009900;">I've been busy working this week on some new <a href="http://www.michabellacreations.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=25&zenid=9d47428e6cb59ab9f8da380b3b90bb7d">designs</a>. I picked up some great gemstones, brass, and lucite that I hope will go over well at my shows this summer. I was able to sit down and turn out pieces I am thrilled with, but that isn't always the case. As fellow jewelry designer Teri of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5945882">S&T Creations </a>shared on her <a href="http://www.sandtcreations.com/wordpress">blog</a>, " whenever sales slow down, motivation tends to slip a bit too. And whenever things get slow, for whatever reason, my creative side tends to go on vacation, I think." I can really relate to that. I find if I have nothing great going on with my business, I find less motivation to sit and create. If people aren't buying, why create more? I'm glad I was able to overcome that this week as I look forward to <a href="http://www.westreadingmainstreet.org/">Art on the Avenue</a> next Saturday. I think Teri has overcome that as well. Just look at this stunning piece: </span><br /><br /><span style="color:#009900;"></span><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346795889050331810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 311px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 288px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SjOiiFVdKqI/AAAAAAAAAOo/eW8IWy_Ad4Q/s320/coins.jpg" border="0" /><br /><span style="color:#009900;">On another creative note, check out Sara's <a href="http://woolies-woolies.blogspot.com/">blog</a> to name her new horse! She is a beauty and when you comment, you will have a chance to win either a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5078988">knitted acorn </a>or a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5486148">cat scrabble tile pendant</a> if your name is choosen. Fun!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-88452318696625153202009-06-07T19:43:00.000-07:002009-06-07T19:59:06.998-07:00I Want These!<div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Six69SxtD2I/AAAAAAAAAOY/afY_CRpyAYI/s1600-h/amberleilani.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344782051212857186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 317px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 202px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Six69SxtD2I/AAAAAAAAAOY/afY_CRpyAYI/s320/amberleilani.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:georgia;color:#666600;">This week's featured <a href="http://creativebloggers.ning.com/">Creative Bloggers </a>are two more very talented ladies. This amazing <strong>cuff </strong>is totally <strong>handwoven</strong> using the <strong>single peyote stitch</strong>. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5222413">Amber Leilani-Middleton</a> is the talented jewelry designer behind this piece. I cannot even imagine the time it must take to create, but I just love the color combination and the boldness of it! Have a look at Amber's <a href="http://www.yellowflower.blogspot.com/">blog</a> for some insight behind her design.</span><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344783794957094018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 318px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 271px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/Six8iyuujII/AAAAAAAAAOg/Hk57dpgc6Dc/s320/ByCoco.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><span style="color:#666600;">If you're a reader of my blog, you know I love <strong>cats</strong>. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5114571">Coco</a> is a talented<strong> stained glass artist</strong>, and I just fell in love with this pretty gray kitty! Each piece of glass is <strong>handcut</strong> and copper foil is applied to the edges before it's soldered together. The kitty is then put on a copper base. It would be so pretty sitting on a table where the sun could reflect through it! Check out Coco's <a href="http://bycoco.blogspot.com/">blog</a> for some more great reads!</span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-39824518186439396672009-06-06T17:44:00.001-07:002009-06-06T18:04:06.295-07:00What's Your Struggle?<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SisNnoL0VsI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/1Nvxsk5G4Jo/s1600-h/pictures2008+877.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344380357258270402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 211px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SisNnoL0VsI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/1Nvxsk5G4Jo/s320/pictures2008+877.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#339999;">For me I find that I struggle almost every day. I struggle to be a <strong>mom</strong>, wife, friend, <strong>entrepreneur</strong>, <strong>artist</strong>, and <strong>writer</strong>. With my soon to be 4 yr old daughter at home with me full time, I struggle to find ways to entertain her. She doesn't like to play alone very long, never has. The child has more toys, coloring books, and mind occupiers, but most sit to collect dust. Getting her out the door to go anywhere, fun or not, is also a struggle. So this leads me to letting her watch cartoons and movies so I can try to accomplish anything. I feel bad. I attempt to play, take her outside, and plan the occasional day out, but ultimately, this is her favorite pasttime. I therefore struggle with guilt about that.</span></div><div> </div><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#339999;">The responsibility of all household chores seems to fall on me. So while the little one is wrapped up in Cindrella or Snow White, I clean, cook, do laundry, all the fun things I so enjoy. When my husband returns in the evening, he is often here, there, and everywhere without much question from the girlie. However, if I happen to leave her sight for too long, there is a sudden whining and sense of urgency that I return to her side. Heaven forbid I have to do a show or try to have an evening out with friends. I have never been made to feel so guilty in my entire life! After all, can't daddy put her to bed a or entertain her a few times a month?</span></div><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#339999;">With all of this struggle, what I really love to do falls to the bottom of the list. I find that I rarely have time to sit and create. It's next to impossible to do this while girlie is awake, because as any <strong>artist </strong>knows, it takes time for things to flow. Just when I start on a piece, she needs this or needs that. Even when daddy is home, she always needs me. I realize that comes with the territory of being a full- time, stay at home mom, but at the end of the day, it leaves me feeling depressed. I so want more time to create and to write, which is why I fail to do more than one blog post in a week. I so want to do more!</span></div><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#339999;">I did manage to create a few new pieces, which I hope to get onto my site within the next few days. The one pictured above is a <strong>bracelet</strong> with a large <strong>turquoise </strong>nugget in the center. It's flanked by two strands of <strong>Vintaj brass chain</strong> and accented with <strong>glass beads</strong>, and a Wish <strong>charm</strong>. Because I wish for less struggling! So my dear readers, I'd love to know (so I don't feel so bad), what is your struggle?</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8312484490812987534.post-76176837648903813562009-05-29T17:08:00.000-07:002009-05-29T17:26:24.435-07:00Meet Some Fellow Creative Bloggers!<div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SiB52MAJ7SI/AAAAAAAAAOA/LKKDG_BZg1A/s1600-h/thebluecat.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341403129903181090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 270px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 201px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SiB52MAJ7SI/AAAAAAAAAOA/LKKDG_BZg1A/s320/thebluecat.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#339999;">I have had the opportunity to meet some amazing and gifted <strong>artists </strong>through my <a href="http://www.creativebloggers.ning.com/">blogging group</a>. This week I will introduce you to two of them, both talented in their respective fields.</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;">First up is Carol of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6006530">The Blue Cat</a>. This adorable and funny <strong>painting</strong> is just one of many feline <strong>artworks</strong>. The piece reminds me of one of my parent's cats who likes to lay on the table. I was drawn to this <strong>painting</strong> because it features two of my favorite things: cats and coffee! Carol has been such a supporter of <strong><a href="http://www.creativebloggers.ning.com/">Creative Bloggers</a></strong> and I thank her for that!</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span></div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341405637986882322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 251px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 249px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5EdszNib26U/SiB8ILV6ExI/AAAAAAAAAOI/-hkwSsH728o/s320/sarustar.jpg" border="0" /><span style="color:#339999;">Sayo of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6141556&ref=em">SaruStar Jewelry</a> specializes in unique and eye-catching <strong>jewelry</strong>. I just love this <strong>pyrite ring</strong>, probably because I love bold pieces. I can just imagine how it sparkles. Visit her <a href="http://sarustarjewelry.blogspot.com/">blog</a> for more great info!</span><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#339999;"></span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2