Blog Giveaway -- Win a Pair of Earrings!

Wendi Winn (she likes stuff!) is hosting a blog giveaway featuring my flower bell earrings as the prize. The giveaway ends Friday, 11/13/09, at 11:30 PM est. So, get over to Wendi's blog and find out how to win a pair of my earrings.





Good luck...
and thanks for stopping by! ♥

Long Overdue Post and an Upcoming Event

I know this is a long overdue post (I've been receiving comments from friends). I have really been MIA most of this year, both in regard to my blog and my Etsy sites. Lots of life changes... new job, new home, daughter moved out then in again, volunteering, social life changes, etc. It really all started with the move. I just couldn't find my rhythm again with so much to do in setting up a new home after 16 years, and then I found that the move and the job change just really gave me a lift if spirits, sort of a whole new lease on life. It was a much needed and long overdue change, and this resulted in my being much more engaged in life once again, getting out more, being much more active, and, hence, spending far less time in front of my computer. I have managed to keep my Facebook account active, but that's really just short, less cerebral posting, so it was easier to do.

In any case, I've been gearing up for shows again, as it is that time of year. I've lots of new items I'll be posting to my three Etsy shops soon. It's about time I do a little updating there as well. I also have a show coming up soon and I hope those of you who are local will stop by. I'll post the flier in below.

So, stay tuned... definitely more to come!

A New Home on the Horizon

I found a house that I love here in Brisbane and will be moving in a week or so. It's perfect in so many ways, but I especially love that I will now have a room designated as my office/work space. I can't wait to get in and set it up, and then to start making some new pieces. I've got a ton of new supplies, which I purchased at the last Gem & Jewelry Trade Show, but have yet to even look at them due to my current state of being between homes.

I also wanted to mention that this move and a few other things have had me very distracted lately and I'm sorry I have been neglecting all of my online friends and acquaintances and their blogs. I will be back in full swing soon, but it may take a couple of weeks or more until I'm settled. I'm going to have a lot of catching up to do!

So, I'll keep you all posted! Thanks for stopping by... ♥

Life Takes Another Turn

It's been an eventful couple of weeks. Looming large is the fact that I received a 60-day notice once again. Some of you may remember this happened last year around this same time, but a couple/few weeks in, the trustee of the property told me she was going to buy it from the trust and that I could continue to rent. Well, I guess that never happened and now they are definitely selling it. I've been dealing with droves of people coming through with real estate agents all week, plus termite inspectors, etc. Not fun!

So, I've looked into buying and have checked out a couple of rentals. I will keep you posted. Although I was thrown into a tailspin with this same news last year, this year, I'm feeling optimistic and, actually, a little excited. I think I'm ready for change this time -- actually really wanting it. I will miss my neighbors and the lovely little street I live on, but the house has needed so much work for so long, and it really juat felt like a lot of weight on my shoulders since I did upkeep and repairs (what I could afford at any given time) myself.

More exciting news is the fact that earlier in the day, on the same day I received my 60-day notice, I was given permanent status at the job where I have been temping since mid December. Included was another $5.00 an hour raise (which I also received in February) and 100% medical coverage -- a good plan with no contribution from my paycheck (really unheard of these days). I couldn't be happier. It's a small office with great owners and all around great people. I really lucked out with this one!

My pup had a little unexpected emergency surgery on Thursday. Not the greatest time for a large vet bill, but I'm glad she is on the mend and will be good as new soon.

I've also been involved in helping to plan two upcoming reunions, one with classmates in May and the other with family in June. It's been fun catching up with old friends and long lost family members during this planning stage. Busy times...

Sarah, Paul, and Glenda -- taken on Sarah's 20th birthday last week.

My little crafting group here in town continues to thrive. It's a fun night of crafting, chatting, friendship, yummy treats and a bit of wine. We have met consistently every other Tuesday since we started a few months ago and all of us are committed to keeping it going, which I am so happy about. I just recently finished my 4th crazy quilted silk pillow in turquoise, teal and blue. I did one almost identical to it for my daughter's 20th birthday, at her request, as she is a diehard Shark's fan and wanted coordinating colors for her Shark's themed room.

So, that's the latest, and may explain my lack of presense here in the blogosphere lately. :) Don't forget to check out my new Etsy shops (blogged about below).

Thanks for stopping by! ♥

My Gorgeous New Banners!

Zoe did such a great job on the banners for my two new Etsy shops! I absolutely love them. Don't forget to check out Zoe's website for all of your graphic design, photo restoration, logo design, etc. needs. She has also created postcards and fliers/invitations for my shows, my business cards, and my item tags that I use at shows. Her work is definitely top shelf!

Zoe also has an Etsy shop featuring her Bean Bling Bracelets and her vintage inspired jewelry. Stop by and show her some love! :) She could use a little encouragement in the Etsy selling department.

Thanks for stopping by!
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