My Sister's New Family Pet...."Chick-On"....

 If you don't know my Sister, Holly, you are missing out on knowing one of the craziest people around.  Her humor and laughter are infectious and she looks at life from a different "angle" than most of us.  She has a husband that tolerates that humor with a shake of his head and a smile.

Recently one of Holly's chickens was being picked on by the rest of them in the coup.  It ended up bleeding and Holly rescued her and took her inside to see if she could fix her up.  She started out in a dog kennel in the garage and eventually ended up being a member of the family (they have a sign on their front yard that says "dump all strays here").  She was suppose to be "reintroduced" to the coup again but that didn't work out so well.  She ended up breaking her leg which meant even MORE care.  Holly said to her husband "if she stops laying eggs we know she isn't going to make it".  But, she kept on laying!

Well, now it ends up that she got a "name".  If you have ever had kids drag something injured, lost, stray home you know that once they are "named" they are yours for life!  So, this poor "hen pecked", broken legged chicken was named "Chick-On".  And "Chick-On" is with the French pronunciation "Shick-on", much like the French pronunciation of "Target" or "Tar-je".

Miss Chick-On gets a daily bath because with the broken leg she gets a bit "messy" back there!  Holly remarked "have you ever tried giving a bath to an animal that is really NOT suppose to be bathed?".  It's not an easy job but Miss Chick-On loves being wrapped up in her towel and getting a little nap in afterwards on someone's lap!

Easter came and by this time Miss Chick-On was a full-fledged family member which entitled her to her own Easter stuffie.  And what would you guess that stuffie would be?  Well of course, it was a little chicken that looked exactly like her!  You can see by the picture that it was love at first sight for them both.

Miss Chick-On also enjoys movie night with the family.  She has her own blanket that she lays down on by the kids and she LOVES popcorn!  And her favorite movies?  Well they are "chick flicks" of course!

Miss Chick-On has since healed up nicely from the pecking by her peers and her broken leg.  Sadly the other chickens will not let her back into the flock, they are the ultimate "mean girls".  So, Miss Chick-On lives in the house now, sleeping in the kennel each night in the boxes that laundry detergent comes in from Sam's Club that my Mom takes her each week.  They have the perfect U cut out in them that mimic the nests in the coup.  Holly says she won't potty in her kennel and "holds" it until morning when she goes outside!  She continues to lay her egg each day for her room and board.

Yesterday Holly's husband brought home a nest full of wild turkey eggs.  They were on an excavation site he was working on and would of just been destroyed (he would never of taken them if they hadn't been in danger of being run over).  They are hoping to hatch them out.  All but 3 are in an incubator at this time.  But, to pump up her "giving back" attitude Miss Chick-On has 3 that she is sitting on.  Holly said she is just the best Mama, sitting carefully on the eggs, turning them over with her beak and tucking them further under her belly and wings.  Miss Chick-On is "paying it forward" in her own way! 

Snowbirds Heading Home.....

We've been coming back and forth from our retirement home on Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri for about 5 years now.  This Winter trip has got to be one of the weirdest of them all.  I was sick before we even LEFT the lake this past Fall.  A trip to the Doc's lead me to the realization that I was a lot sicker than I thought, a bad case of bronchitis took me down.  My thoughts were I'd snap around once we reached Tucson and the "warmer" climate.  NOT.....We have both been sick all Winter here.  I finally started feeling better about 2 1/2 weeks ago and then Joe came down with something, he got better and then I caught it again.

We have spent the last couple months wondering when we were going to have "Christmas" as a family.  We would plan on a day and then one of the grandkids would be sick.....then it started through the adults and, well, we have to report that we FINALLY HAD CHRISTMAS TODAY!  Christmas in March, that has to be a first.  Lindsay remarked today that she was glad she hadn't left the Christmas tree up!

There have been sick kids, sick adults, hospital stays by family members, a passing of a Dear Uncle of my daughter in laws, LOTS of babysitting, picking up of kids from school, a runaway grandson that was gone for 13 days (and returned safely) and SNOW, LOTS OF SNOW.  Even the little white dog has had it this trip.

All I can say is I'm just about packed up, Joe has the house closing "to do" list just about done, SisseeLou is wondering where her life jacket is and these "SnowBirds" are heading home!  Yes, it's still cold at the lake but we don't care!  We'll have the woodstove going and a pot of coffee made within 30 minutes of our arrival, SisseeLou will have every squirrel run back up the trees and then there will be digging out my seed catalogs and the planning of the garden for Spring, visiting with friends, getting busy with our Lion's Club friends, hugging everyone at church I've missed and working in my yard....ah....SPRING is just around the corner!

 Tucson, we love you but really, we've had enough of you this Winter.....hopefully you'll be better to us in November when we return!  See ya later!!

Easter Gift Ideas....

Easter is right around the corner and with that comes those adorable baskets filled with goodies!  I went through some of my favorite Etsy stores and came up with some wonderful basket fillers that would be perfect for Easter baskets for everybody!  Hop on in and visit these wonderful Etsy Sellers and pick up some adorable, sweet, soft, pretty, lacy and just plain fun things!

This Infinity scarf is perfect for spring, use it to dress up a plain blouse or to add a pop of color.  Mona has several Infinity scarfs to choose from as well as adorable bibs and household items.  All are created by Mona, SewingGranny.

For that bigger "kid" in your house how about this gorgeous Bunny necklace by Sharla, BeadedTail.  Created with Green Lampwork beads with Peridot Swarovski crystals and an antiqued brass chain this necklace is the perfect Easter gift!

What an adorable bib for that Easter outfit.  Created lovingly by Peggy, ArrivingAngels.  Peggy has some other cute Easter toys for little ones in her shop, take a look today and pick up a few.

 Beautifully hand crocheted this little bunny doily would be the star in the middle of your table for Easter!  Delicate thread art by Maryann of CrochetbyMsa.  She has so many beautiful things in her shop!


 

 Have you ever seen a cuter pair of baby shoes?  Bet you didn't unless you've shopped with Annie of MyMiniMocs!  These are darling with their little wedges of watermelon!  Annie has many other pair available in her shop for little toes of boys and girls!





So, take a look at all these wonderful stores and see if you can pick up those basket fillers today!  You'll find these things and so many more!

Lifestyle Change....Some Things I've Learned.

Changing ones lifestyle, especially at my age, is not an easy thing to do.  But I'm thinking that maybe you CAN teach an "old dog" some new tricks!

Since deciding back in October, that I really needed to drop a considerable amount of weight, I've learned so many "new things".  I thought I'd share some of them with you, take them for what they are, use them if you would like or just read them and smile.  I'll start with just 3 and future blogs will go from there.

1.)  There IS a program out there that not only works but is totally FREE, (yes, no meetings, no paying for online support, nothing to buy etc. FREE).  SparkPeople has to be one of the most comprehensive websites out there for people wanting to change their lives.  The operative word here is "wanting".  You have to work at it, be honest with yourself and give it time.  It works, it really does.  The premise is if you just change 1 thing at a time and be consistent with that change it will soon become a "habit".  Then move on to the next thing.  After a certain amount of time you have an entire new set of "habits" and your on your way to a healthier life.  I started there on October 30, 2011....as of today I have lost 27 pounds, I exercise 60 minutes a day 6 days a week and have just about completely quit eating meat.  And to top that all off I FEEL great...the best I've felt in years!

2.)  You do not need a gym membership to get exercise.  Personally I hate "group" fitness...I hate using equipment someone else has been sitting on and sweating all over....there is a high "ewwww" factor there.  If you have 2 feet and a floor you can get fit!  If you can't afford to purchase exercise DVD's you can rent them from your local Library.  View several until you find one (or more) that you enjoy...then shoot for saving to make that purchase.  You can find them at garage sales, church flea markets, on eBay, Craigslist etc.  You don't need to purchase new.  Many times you can find them on sale, especially if they are considered "older" DVD's.  I tried several before I found out that I absolutely love Step Aerobics.  While wildly popular back in the 80's it's still a heck of a workout, gets your heart rate up and really works you good!  My favorite is Gin Millers "Simply Step".  It's not "dancy" because I have 2 left feet, her cues are on time and she shows you the moves before she calls them...great for those of us that just aren't that coordinated.  Frankly it took me about 3 weeks to be able to work up to completing the entire 60 minute workout but the results have been amazing.

3.)  Try something different.  And that can be anything but in this case it's food.  Since dropping meat from my diet I was concerned about my protein intake.  I started reading and found tons of information on a "super food" by the name of Quinoa (keen-wa).  It is actually a seed that's grown in Bolivia.  The Incas cultivated and ate this seed 3,000-4,000 years ago.  They referred to it as the "mother of all grains".  Quinoa contains essential amino acids like Lysine and contains good quantities of calcium, iron and phosphorus as well as 18% protein and is closely related to the beet and spinach family.  I purchased mine through Amazon, it's organic and has had the outer hull removed (which can be very bitter).  You can also find it at Trader Joe's and Costco.  It comes in "tri color", red, black and white.

Quinoa is cooked just like rice with a 2:1 ratio, 2 cups liquid to 1 cup seeds.  I make mine in batches and put in the fridge so I have it on hand.  It's great in salads, soups or by itself cooked in vegetable broth with added onions, peppers and herbs/seasonings.  It's very versatile and I just made a "Breakfast Quinoa" today, it was delicious!  Quinoa has that "staying power" and keeps your blood sugar even and holds you until your next meal with no problem!

Breakfast Quinoa

2 c. Cranberry-Raspberry Juice, Light
1 c. Quinoa
1 tsp. Cinnamon
1 c. Dark Bing Cherries, chopped

Bring Quinoa and juice to a rolling boil in sauce pan, cover and reduce heat.  Cook for 15 minutes and remove from heat, add the cinnamon and cherries, cover and let stand about 5-10 minutes.  Serve warm or cold, refrigerate remainder.  Makes 4 servings 1/2 c. each.  You can add some yogurt if you wish but it really doesn't need a single thing.  The sweetness from the cherries and juice are plenty sweet enough and it needs no liquids.  Enjoy!

That's a start.....more later!

Coming Of Spring ~ The "Honey Do" List.....

Picture courtesy of Clark Hamilton

GrowGardenTomatoes

Ahhhh, Spring is coming and with it comes the planning of our first garden.  We purchased our home on the lake in Missouri about 5 years ago.  Part of our reasoning in choosing this particular home was the amount of land with it that would lend itself to a sizable area for a vegetable garden.  However, upon arriving and living there a year, we quickly realized we were NOT going to be able to do that.  One of the people that lived across from us was the neighborhood cat "hoarder"....the garden idea quickly vanished.

For the next 3 years we fought to try and keep the cats out of our yard that were using it and every single flower bed as one huge litter box.  They would even get on our boat and use it along with my potted plants, front door mat, patio furniture, etc.  Needless to say by the end of year 3 I was ready to move....the smell was overwhelming and we were not even able to enjoy being outdoors let alone leave our windows open.  Flash back to last Summer when a group of us got together and decided something needed to be done.....and it was finally addressed.  A group came in and "live trapped" 28 cats and removed them.  Now, flash forward to this coming Spring, and viola a vegetable garden in the making!

Joe is always busy, I don't care what it is, where it is, what time of year it is....the man pretty much never stays still.  He is always looking for a project to keep himself busy.  He needs to look no further than the side of our yard and the list on his desk!  He is pretty much been "spoken for" for a "honey do" list that would make any grown man shudder!  Here is the start of his list:

  1.  Level area for garden, removing top layer of junk dirt.

  2.  Build raised beds for plants.

  3.  Put up fence all around garden to keep the varmits out (squirrels, deer, racoons, armadillos).

  4.  Design and install some kind of netting system to cover entire garden from on top of fencing.

  5.  Build a 2 stage, contained compost bin.

  6.  Build a compost "barrel" that can be turned as the stage 3 compost unit for final composting of organic materials.

  7.  Run new underground water line from lake up to the garden area (and that's a LONG way up).

  8.  Purchase and install irrigation pump down on the dock for irrigation line.

  9.  Order truck-load of dirt to fill beds and "git er done".

So, hurry up Spring, he has lots to do and we can hardly wait to get going!

Author Robert Brault.....Words to Live By...

I love Robert Brault.  I have often posted Robert's quotes personally on FaceBook and to my Christian Friends Team.  Robert has a "way with words" that often make one stop and ponder their meaning.  So many times I've been searching for a quote to "fit" my mood, or something I may be going through at the time and I find exactly what I was looking for.  I lean on this particular quote of his quite often.  "Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things."  How true is that.

I guess you get to a certain age you suddenly realize how many "little things" you've spent precious time worrying about your entire life.  Being over 21 (WAY over) you start looking back and wondering where in the heck time went.  Seems like yesterday when the boys were little, driving me crazy while I was cooking, getting every single piece of the clothing they had dirty which lead to SO much laundry.  Then on the "flip side" I remember my middle child Jason, now a father of 4 with a beautiful wife, standing under the clothesline crying, hanging on to his wet blanket.  Your "memories" change from all the day to day stuff to those really important things you MUST remember.

Robert worked very hard on a project all Summer and into Fall.  It was a "leap of faith" for him and for the publishing company that took the project on.  He now has a beautiful calendar with pictures that just make you feel the stress leave your body and a set of note cards that match the calendar.  If you want to pick up a meaningful gift for someone on your Christmas gift list pick one (or more) of these.  They make the perfect gift, thoughtful, thought provoking, peaceful and beautiful.  You don't need batteries, they don't require assembly and they won't be the wrong size!

You'll find the order information here:  2012 Calendars and Note Cards

I count myself very lucky to have struck up a "friendship" of sorts with Robert.  He is a very wise man that loves life and is very passionate about what he does.  Talent comes easy to him, well, at least he makes it look easy.  He is not unapproachable, reads all the comments on his blog and appreciates everyone that stops to read or to just say hi.  Stop by and read some of his blog...I can guarantee you it's addicting and you'll find yourself smiling, laughing and sometimes thinking deeply about what you've read.

Thank you Robert for sharing yourself with us.  We appreciate it more than you will ever know. 

*The pictures here were "lifted" from Robert's own blog...I take no credit for them.  If I knew who took them I would give THEM credit.   

Artisan Corner ~ Bob Gast

 I want to start featuring Artisans that I have come in contact with and have worked with on very special custom orders.  My very first featured Artisan is Bob Gast.  Bob has an online shop on ArtFire.  Bob's ArtFire Store  bobsrockwerksandgemcutting
I "met" Bob when he asked to become a member of a group I started there called "Christian Friends On ArtFire".  Seems God puts people in your path for many reasons.  Some we recognize and acknowledge why and other times we never know.  I think at that moment Bob needed us (the group) and I needed to find Bob!  He jumps right in and is a strong prayer warrior for the group!

 Bob is a Lapidary Artisan and takes great love and pride in cutting gemstones, rocks and minerals.  He creates freeform cabochons for making jewelry.  He has some jewelry in his shop that he did the lapidary on the rocks and set them himself.  They are beautiful!  You can see the time he has spent working on the many stones in his store.  Bob is a perfectionist as most Artisans are.  Here is a bit of information on Bob taken from his Bio;  

"I have been interested geology, minerals, and rocks all of my life. When I lost my job and my job search proved fruitless I knew that I needed to do something to occupy my time and earn money. All it took was a trip to the Lake Michigan beach. There, I began to collect rocks and beach glass. I bought a dremel rotary tool and a bunch of bits and started to carve, shape and polish the rocks that I collected. I soon learned that there was a lot more to rocks and the lapidary arts than I realized. I was hooked. Whether I am carving a rock with my rotary tool or cutting on the cabochon machine I am in my element. I am learning new techniques and aspects of the arts everyday."

 I approached Bob a few weeks ago and he has been working very hard on a very special Christmas gift for my 3 sons and my brother.  I can hardly wait to see the finished product and give them to the guys.  It has been a pleasure to work with him.  He listens intently, offers suggestions, is prompt answering email messages and is very meticulous in what he does.  These gifts will be well received and will become a family "heirloom" of sorts.  
 
Please take some time and take a look at Bob's store and see all the beautiful things he has there.  If you are a jewelry maker this is THE place to shop for quality stones and gems for all your projects.  You will not be disappointed! 

Angel's BNR-#2 For Breast Cancer Awareness!

The Etsy Angels, once again, are hosting a BNR for Breast Cancer!  This will be our second BNR this month and the last one.  All participating shops will continue to raise money until the end of the month.  The BNR starts at 5:00 Eastern time and will run until 8:00 p.m., possibly longer if things are going as well as they did last time!  We had 85 sales from our last BNR, a number the Angel's were VERY proud of!

We will be posting the link to the BNR just as we open it so check our FaceBook page ("like us") and you'll know the second it gets underway!  Here is our FACEBOOK LINK.

Below you will see just a sample of items that you'll be seeing in the Angel's Think Pink BNR!  Join us.  Help us raise as much money as we can....and cross some folks off that Christmas list too!

Sock Monkey Hat

MamaJody

Pink Ribbon Fleece Blanket

SewingGranny

Crystal Pink Tennis Bracelet

 BeadedTail

MiniMoc Soft Leather Baby Shoes

MyMiniMocs

Join the Angels Today For Our BNR!

I have recently discovered the joys of participating in a BNR. What is a BNR you ask?

BNR stands for "BUY AND REPLACE." Someone creates a treasury on Etsy and if you want your item featured in this particular treasury, you have to buy one of the items featured in the treasury. It is so much fun: you get to meet a lot of wonderful sellers and it is a great opportunity to get some exposure.

If you are not an Etsy shop owner, it is still fun to participate because sellers usually offer tons of discounts, so you may end up getting a great deal that you would not haven gotten had you not participated. 

Based on my experience, if you are a seller, the key to a successful BNR experience is:

1. Great product photography

2. Don't have the most expensive item in the treasury. You want to see what the other items are priced at and try to stay in the lower end if possible

3. Participation is super important: when I am able to participate and interact with the other people who are participating in the BNR, I sell more items.

4. BNRs are a great way to get hearts. Don't forget to heart other sellers' items and add them to your circle!

5. If people invite you to attend a BNR (and chances are they will send you invitations after your first BNR experience), go and say hi! Even if you can't play, people do appreciate the fact that you took the time to visit and favorite the treasury.

Why am I telling you all this?!?

Because today, my dear Etsy Angel sisters and I are hosting our very first BNR! We are raising money in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month.

I would love if you joined us between 5pm EST - 8pm EST today.

The Angels Fall Fundraiser-Breast Cancer Awareness....

Breast Cancer.  I really hate those 2 words.  I have lost loved ones to this disease, I have seen friends fight it, heard of young mothers wondering if they will see their children grow up.  I have listened to stories of countless people that have been diagnosed with it....many of these stories from friends or family members that speak softly of those lost.....But I have also heard stories of those that fought the good fight and have made it....they were able to beat this disease down, stomp it into the earth, dust themselves off and turn and walk away from it.

Breast Cancer.  I think it is safe to say that in our lifetimes we will either know someone that has/had it or heard of someone that has/had it.  It touches so many.  Only with careful screening, self awareness, regular mammography and research will we see the numbers fall.

In 2011, it is estimated that within the U.S.:

• There will be 230,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer.
• There will be 57,650 new cases of in situ breast cancer.
• There will be 39,520 breast cancer deaths. 

I don't like these numbers....at all....  Research is expensive but without it we don't have a fighting chance!  So, please.........

• Do monthly self-exams....no one knows your body better than you do.
• Have a yearly exam with your Doctor, no, nobody likes to go but consider the alternative.
• Get "squished" yearly!  Get that Mammogram!  And if you cannot afford it there are places within your own communities that can help you pay for them.  Contact your local American Cancer Society or search on Google for help in your area.
• Eat a healthy diet, exercise, quit smoking.....
• If you think there is something wrong...DON'T STICK YOUR HEAD IN THE SAND AND HOPE IT GOES AWAY BECAUSE IT WON'T!  And the longer you wait the less your chances are of beating it! 

Be there for a friend or loved one going through this.  Go with them to treatments if you can, drop them a card, send a small gift that can help their treatment times go by quickly.  Call them, let them know your there for them.  Their attitudes can affect their treatments!

Here are some links that you might like to keep around...visit them and bookmark them, pass them on!

National Breast Cancer Organization

Cancer.Org

Y-Me

Susan G. Komen

And if you'd like, the Etsy Angels are raising money all through October for Breast Cancer non-profit groups in each Angels own hometown.  Join us, help us by making a purchase from any (or all) of the Angel Shops listed here in our blog  The Etsy Angels "Think Pink" October Fundraiser

Thank you....

Window Shopping!

I love Fall....really love it!  And when Fall comes around my thoughts go to December and Christmas.  So what if it's only September, you've got to start that holiday shopping sometime so I thought I would help you get started with some "window shopping"!  The Artisans and their beautiful creations below will put you in the mood for sure.  Visit them and see what other beautiful things they have.  These Artisans are all from my Etsy Angel Team!  Enjoy!

SewingGranny~Mona 

 Mona makes the cutest bib and burp cloth sets.  Several of my grandchildren proudly sport her bibs!  They wash up wonderfully and are very well constructed.  She also sells pot holder sets, place-mats, "mug rugs, coffee cup cozy's, table runners and many other things.  

BeadedTail~Sharla

Sharla has so very many beautiful things in her shop.  These Smokey Quartz earrings are stunning and she has the necklace (equally as stunning) to match it!  I have purchased numerous gifts for my family, and myself, from Sharla.  She has jewelry from gorgeous to the whimsical at a price point that everyone can afford.  Visit her today and find that very special gift for those on your gift list.

CrochetbyMSA~MaryAnn

Anyone that knows me well knows that Sunflowers are my favorite flower!  Even in the winter my kitchen is sunny and bright with them all around!  MaryAnn handcrafted this beautiful crocheted Sunflower doily.  I just can't help but smile when I see this!  Her shop is filled with such beauty and grace!  Anyone receiving one of her doily's or other items, would just love them.  They truly are gifts meant to last a lifetime and be passed down from generation to generation.  Stop by her shop and see what else she has!

These are just 3 of the Etsy Angel Team that I am so proud to be a member of and these are just 3 of many that you'll be seeing in the very near future.  I plan on introducing you to ALL my Team members and let you know what beautiful, fun, functional, bright, happy, stunning, gorgeous and wonderful things they create.....stay tuned!

Simple Pleasures.....

Living rural has so many pros and cons.  Driving long distances to get anywhere is one of those "cons".  However, over the past 2-3 weeks those long drives have been welcomed because I was able to experience something I've never seen before.  Butterflies!  Butterflies you ask?  Yes, thousands of them.  More butterflies than I have ever witnessed in one place before.

Our roadsides in Missouri are kept cut back only a few feet since the gas prices went up.  So many of the wild flowers and other plants have been able to take up residence and thrive.  One such plant is the thistle.   I remember many years ago the dried thistle was so coveted by home crafters and flower arrangers that you hardly ever saw them anymore (I lived in Michigan at the time).  I guess that hobby never took off here in Missouri since we have an abundance of them!

Driving the other day I was amazed at the sheer number of butterflies.  There had to of been 1,000's of them.  The Thistle on the side of the road, for about 12 miles, was just black with butterflies.  All moving to the open flowers to eat nectar.  It was a beautiful sight to see.

After some searching via the internet I discovered that the butterflies were called a Pipevine Swallowtail and they look like this (photo credit to Charly Mann).  Their iridescent hind wings practically glowed in the sunlight.  Bright blue toward the bottom and black top wings.  It ranges from the US down into Mexico and as far away as Costa Rica.  They can be seen from April - October in the Northern part of it's range and from February - November in it's Southern range.  They have 2 hatchings in the North and usually 3 in the South.

All scientific descriptions aside they are beautiful.  Their graceful movement catches your eye and you can't help but watch them.  Hopefully you have either stopped your car and pulled off the road or you are watching them from your patio!  I have had the blessing to be able to of done both this Summer.  Sometimes I think that the world would be a more peaceful place if we all pulled off the road once in a while and just sat to watch the butterflies.....

What's Up With Cotton? The PRICES!!

 Been to the fabric store lately?  Got sticker shock?  Well hang on, it's not over with yet!  The price of fabric has been steadily rising for months now and it is only going to go higher.  There are many factors, floods in Pakistan which is one of the largest cotton producing countries, India reducing the amount of raw cotton it allows for export and China depleting it's existing supply of cotton.  China now has gone through most of their "stash" and are literally purchasing cotton at any price just to get their hands on it.

Cotton is a commodity that is traded on the open market like oil, gold, silver etc.  So, short supplies and higher demands have made the cotton futures skyrocket.  Large manufactures are having to pay anywhere from 18-35% MORE for their greige goods (pronounced "grey" goods, and describes raw, woven fabric that has not been treated, dyed or finished).  The cost of cotton back in 2005 was around .56 cents per pound....it's now at $1.52.  It all rolls downhill.

The prices are higher, the demand is higher and everyone is scrambling to get what they think they'll need for the future which is just going to drive the price up even more.  So, the bottom line here is.....even the home crafter/small business person is going to feel this pinch (actually we already are).

If you notice prices going up and up when your looking to purchase clothing or anything that is "fabric related" please keep in mind that it's not just the business owner trying to "make a buck", we're dealing with those increased prices too.

Micheal Bourlard, vice president, retail sales made this statement regarding the increase in cotton prices; " Hoffman California Fabrics and other textile manufacturers find ourselves inside a “perfect storm” of low supply, high demand and high prices for cotton. Thanks to a healthy greige goods inventory, we were able to keep our prices steady for nearly two years into the first half of this year. That supply now is nearly exhausted and unfortunately, we’ve been continually frustrated by an extremely volatile market with frequent price hikes." 

So as you shop and you see the prices creeping up know that I am doing my best to keep prices down.  I look for new ways to purchase fabrics at lower prices so I can still make my items affordable for you.  I shop all the "sales", purchase larger cuts of fabric, take advantage of "discontinued" prints that are often at a lower price, frequent yard sales, garage sales, thrift shops etc.  Fabrics are always laundered prior to cutting them out and stitching them together so you can be assured of a "clean" product!

Believe me, when the prices of cotton start coming down again you'll be the first to know!   

Glass Artist ~Julie DeGroot~ GardenJewels on Etsy

GardenJewels

I happened to run across Julie in the Etsy forums.  Her spirit came through in her response to other Artists.  I clicked through to her shop and was taken to a garden filled with fairy doors, stained glass wind chimes, garden art and whimsy.  A shop that makes you take a deep, cleansing breath of fresh air and let it out slowly....all the while your stress melts away.  Julie has an eclectic eye in her designs using the new and the found.  She takes Vintage items and incorporates them into her designs.  Color, shape and movement are things you'll find in her creations. 

Each one of her designs is a one of a kind piece.  Giving one as a gift you'll never have to worry about them getting the "same" thing twice!  The pieces are not something that will be given away they are truly heirloom pieces. 

From her Shop Bio...

"I create one of a kind stained glass art

~ Inspired by Nature 

~ Bringing you reflections of color, movement  & soothing sounds to your home & garden

~ All of my glass art is individually designed
& handcrafted by myself.
~ Each piece is totally unique and a one of a kind."

Julie lives in Beautiful Western New York, in the country surrounded by the woods and nature.  She is a "self taught artist and have been enjoying and creating stained glass, mosaic designs, paintings, murals and my gardens for over 20 years now".

"I have a great passion for glass, for my gardens and the great outdoors, so I combined them to create my glass art for your home & garden, inspired by nature."

 "A garden should be filled with not only plants & love, but little surprises throughout it. Something to catch your eye & drag you in to sit awhile to stop and smell the roses.  My heart and soul goes into all of my art.
Always on the look out for vintage glass, beads, or objects to reuse. I love to upcycle pieces into my art.  Taking nothing and turning it into something!  Most of my inspirations come from my favorite place to be in this world, my gardens. Nature always sings to me.   My name Garden Jewels comes from my passion for my Gardens & for my Husband who calls me Jewel."

Take some time and stop by Julie's shop, take a look at the beauty she has created.   If your shopping for something very special this is the place to find it!

Several members of my family have been the lucky recipient's of Julie's work.  They love them and cherish the meaning behind them as well as the care and love that went into each piece.

Visit GardenJewels......

eReaders and Magnetic Cover Closures...the truth....

Questions have come up regarding "magnets" or magnetic closures and eReaders.  Will they harm your device?  Simple answer is....no.

Technology has come a L-O-N-G way in the last 10 years when people were warned about keeping their electronic devices, floppy discs and the like away from magnets. You can certainly form your own opinions but by all I have read regarding the matter magnetic closures on a eReader cover will do NO harm.  In fact when the first Kindle came out it actually had a MAGNET that helped "hold" it to the leather cover that was an accessory item.

Here are some of the comments I found while doing research on the issue, some more "scientific" than others, others more "humorous".

Quotes taken from Kindle Boards

"There are no magnetic drives in the Kindle that would be affected by anything that is somewhat magnetic."

"Kindle exposure to magnets waves in non-commercial usages are absolutely no problem."

"The electromagnet pulse from a nuclear bomb will destroy unshielded electronics. Therefore, I would avoid exploding a nuclear bomb within, say, a five-mile radius of your Kindle. The actual radius will vary with the strength of the bomb."

From Yahoo "Answers":

"My Amazon Kindle cover uses magnets to snap closed. I have a small room with numerous electronic devices (LCD monitors, a laptop, an external hard drive, a cell phone, a watch); also, I like to carry both my Kindle and my laptop in my bookbag. What I'm wondering is, are these magnets in the Kindle cover strong enough to damage anything, or should I quit worrying about being careful? (Obviously, they do no harm to the Kindle itself....)"

Answer:

"Your question is valid although I believe your concern is not. It's true magnets can effect digital storage and many other electronic devices. The strength of the magnet you describe is not enough to do any damage."

Google has literally pages of questions and answers regarding magnetic closures and eReaders....none of them "warn" or say they will harm an eReader.  As always, you must form your own opinions on the matter, but I am convinced that they do no harm.

Giving Thanks by Indie Artisans Handmade

Indie Artisans is an ever-changing collection of the best handmade has to offer, presented on one timely page that makes shopping for gifts or yourself easy and fun.

The collection changes with the seasons or on a whim, so check back often for the finest artisan goods hand selected from the most creative, experienced group of online artisans ever assembled.

Click on anything you are interested in on the blog page and it will take you directly to that Artisans shop page.  You will purchase directly from the Artisan.

Holiday Gifts for the Teacher....

Apple for the Teacher?  Sometimes picking up a nice gift for a Teacher is difficult...they get plenty of candy and other things and many of those end up being "regifted".  How about something that they will really be able to use?  This eyeglass case would be perfect!  A double case that can hold their readers and their sunglasses!  Visit my ArtFire store and see ALL the different cases for women AND men.  

One Year Today...

One year ago today we were blessed with grandchild #10, Zeke Landon Olson.  He came into this world with a basket full of problems and a Mother and family that loved him with a love that no one could imagine.  We prayed then and we continue to pray for him and his health concerns.

Today is Zeke's birthday, "Zeker" as we so lovingly call him.  The past year has been fraught with scares, tears, prayers and often thanks and smiles.  Zeke has come a long, long way......every day we are reminded of his fragile condition but over time we have been able to see beyond that and have dared to dream of Zeke and his future happiness and health.

Zeke has finally gotten to some fabulous Doctors that have taken incredible care of him and have been able to keep him going and allow him to progress, to grow, to smile and to be a happy 1 year old baby.  We also pray for them each night!

I have watched as his Mother has gained the strength she needs to take care of him 24/7.  She has gone from a frightened Mother to a woman that has more inner strength, belief and confidence than I ever thought she would have.  Not because I thought she didn't have those qualities but because of the depth of his problems and the sleep deprivation she has endured the last year.  She is the strongest woman I know...to have been through so much and still smile at some things that many of us take for granted.....a baby's first smile, first time they sit up, first tooth, first time crawling and first word.  She never gave up on Zeke...EVER!!  I so admire her.

Happy Birthday baby Zeke, you are the bright penny in our lives, our sunshine, our happiness and our love... you'll have many, many more.

I Love You,
Your Nana

My New Sun Visor!

Well, Mom said I could use the computer and blog about the newest addition to my wardrobe.  I got a brand spanking new HOT PINK Visor and bandanna set!  It is just to stinking cute!  Mom was wandering around Etsy the other night and happened to come across this Etsy shop called  HAPPY HOUNDS  and I gotta be honest here and say that at this very moment I am one "Happy Hound".

You see, I go out on the Pontoon boat and Jet Ski a lot and the sun is always in my eyes...I mean the sun shining off the water is so bright.  Mom tried those stupid doggy sun goggles (boy, were those things lame) and nothing really worked.  It would be to tight, to loose, choked me, flew off into the water or just looked like (well, I'm sticking my paw down my throat right now).  I am SO happy Mom found  HAPPY HOUNDS!

My visor set came in today's mail and I thought "well, here we go again".  Mom put my visor on and it fit just perfect!  Nothing "grabbed" me anywhere and I love the color.  It even came with this hot pink rose on the front...LOVE that part!  Mom thought for sure that I'd have it off and ripped up in a heartbeat...but you know, I really love this visor!  I mean, look at my picture, it really looks good on me doesn't it?

Anyway, Mom wanted me to add that the lady that made my set, Tammy, was just as sweet as can be.  She emailed Mom right away to make sure of the size and let her pick out the material she liked.  She even emailed and let Mom know when it was mailed for gosh sakes!  When it came Mom was really impressed with the quality and workmanship (and Mom doesn't get impressed easily since she sews too)!

We just had to try it out so I wore it out on the lake on the Jet Ski.  It worked just PERFECT, the sun stayed out of my beautiful brown eyes and Mom didn't have to drive back and pick it up out of the water because it stayed on really good....and she drove REALLY FAST to make sure (I love it when she drives fast).

So if you are having trouble with the sun in your eyes when your out walking or swimming or chasing the neighbors cat...ask your Mom to shop over at HAPPY HOUNDS and pick you up some great gear!  Mom said she was going to go over there and buy some more....and some things are on sale right now too!

I give my new Visor set a "paws up"!

Each Friday the Etsy Angels will be featuring some great gift ideas. Many are brand new listings, some are on sale and others, well, they're just fabulous! Visit the Angels blog each Friday for gift ideas....you KNOW the holidays are just around the corner!

MamaJody 

Cute as a button crocheted hats.

Ozarknana

Ballerina Babies, darling little friends for your little girl!

Serenity Sac

This thoughtful and meaningful gift will be treasured by the receiver!

Handjstarcreations.

Darling small drawstring bags in Halloween colors.

BeadedTail

Beautiful new earrings.

SewingGranny

Sweet new bib and burp cloth set for baby girls.

Wildlifer

Love this new lavender and aqua color scheme.

Maranda

Beautifully hand crafted card, let them know how special you think they are.

JewelryBargainBoutique

"Spicy" new Cinnamon earrings!

MountainEagleCrafter

You'll love these cotton facial scrubbies!

ArrivingAngels

A beautiful layette for that very special new Angel.