A Glass of WIne

......and everything is OK. I'm breathing without stress now in the month of January - most obligations are fulfilled or too late to fulfill and I'm happy to have only one "to do" list going and it's very short.
Are you feeling the same way? I am grateful to be at this point in my life to be able to enjoy my kids, their company and how they are growing each and every day before my very eyes.

What has this to do with a glass of wine?

I have one glass of wine sometimes at the end of the day. Not every day. When I've got no where to go or anyone to see or meet nor any social or sporting events....I'll have one glass of red wine. It's, too me, a simple indulgence and makes me feel civilized in my uncivilized and completely uncultured life (at the moment). Being around a 4-year old every day makes one not feel very cultured and stumps ones vocabulary to single syllables....and it's hard to shake when confronted by actual adult conversation! Ha - the humor doesn't escape me. Hardly ever does.

A glass of wine. Laughter. Hmmm....some nice sharp cheese and crusty bread and I'm basically in heaven!

David and Goliath

I read this story with my son today about David slaying Goliath. It is always a good reminder of how powerful God is and the boys like the story because a boy like them slayed a giant with a slingshot and a stone.
Today, the story, although heard by my son many times, was relayed to his older brother because the part he thought was funny was when Goliath says to David "Are you coming at me with sticks like I am a dog?"
How great is the bible that we can read it over and over again and come away with something different or current to our lives at the moment? It's like we can read the same passage many times over and still get something else out of it.
And....of course, reading it through the eyes of a child is always enlightening. Our God has given us this lasting guide to get though our crazy world and it can apply to all of us at any particular time.
Quite vast is God's knowledge, wisdom and love. Would that I could have a small morsel...

Did you Vote?

Tomorrow is election day. The hype is finally going to be over and hopefully whichever way the vote goes it's a decisive one because if we have more controversy over this election like for Bush/Gore I think I'll go mad.
I remember voting for the first time. I lived in St Petersburg, Florida and was so excited to be standing in line waiting to cast my vote. MY vote. It was a special day because I really felt like what I had to say mattered in this huge country - and that is pretty important.
If you've never voted - I urge you to sign up and make your voice heard. It's so important that we all get our voice and that we are all counted. So many people in this great country's past fought and often died for our right to vote. Especially as a woman, when our history shows that women didn't have a voting voice for so long - so it's particularly important that we stand up today and make our vote count.
No matter what your party affiliation, take some time to research the candidates platforms and see what is important to you in this world and CAST YOUR VOTE.
One grain of rice can tip the scale.

Halloween Alternatives? I'm over it

So what's the big deal? I mean - it's one day, kids get dressed up and go door-to-door to get candy and we're done. Why the extra days during October to get candy on weekends before Halloween - doesn't that take the anticipation away from the real day?
As a kid, I remember it was very exciting to get candy on that day and it seemed like an enormous amount. I know I never finished the bottom of my pumpkin basket ever, so my Dad probably took the rest to work or something.
Nowadays, it seems like there are so many "safe alternatives" being held but way prior to the actual date of Halloween and people aren't using it as an alternative but more of an additional opportunity to get more candy.
More candy?
Can you imagine?
As for me and my house, we'll just keep going door-to-door on the real Halloween and make it a light, fun holiday. No need for gore or horror - just a fun day, let them eat like five pieces of candy when they get home and they are in heaven.
OK. I'm done with my rant. I promise.
Moving on.

Day after Halloween

Thank GOD that the time finally changes tomorrow....it seems like my biological clock has been waiting for it to happen - like when you lie awake in the morning waiting for the alarm to go off because your mind knows it's coming?? OK - maybe that's just me.

Now, though, I feel the pressure of AHHHH November???? Already???? I mean - seriously now it's like a snowball going down a steep slippery mountainside on it's way to Christmas Day. I wish I could slow the clock down - just make every day a little longer and slower so there would be time to do all the fun stuff that this season brings. So many goodies to bake, so many people to hug and pray for, so many traditions - it's so much fun.

So I'm off to go pull down the Halloween decorations from outside and pack them away for another year - fortunately, there aren't too many. Whew.

Until next time --

Okay Okay - It's been awhile

I've been running like crazy busy..............I guess with three kids and being home and able to volunteer AND having my own online business AND co-chair of my kids fundraising event this year.................well, it does keep me out of trouble I guess.

I have three Craft shows I'm doing this season and I can't say I'll be sad when they are over. Although I love to have the sales, it does take it's toll. I was exhausted after last Saturday's event - I think it's just being up and selling and talking to people. You won't sell too much if you sit in the booth and keep your head down...right?

Anyway - last week, after the show, I had to pack everything up, shuttle back to the house, unpack and then load up the kids for a pool party (with Halloween costumes in tow) and then after the pool party we went off to a Halloween party! Whew. I could barely keep my eyes open. We were SO overbooked.

But, tis the season to overbook, isn't it? I cannot even begin to think about soccer season starting on November 1st for two kids on two different fields....and then of course, Thanksgiving and well, Christmas just rushes itself in there and before we know it we'll be wearing silly hats and drinking bad champagne and ringing in 2009.

OKAY OKAY - I'll slow down, but that's how my mind works. It's why I have to take each week as it comes and write lists....so I don't STRESS....................

How do you handle it???

SALE going on

Well, I've finally done it. I've created a SALE section in my Etsy store - jensjewelry.etsy.com.
Mostly it's earrings and I've marked down most below the $10 mark. I'm looking at cool items that have just been sitting there for awhile.
So - if you're one of those people who likes to shop EARLY for Christmas presents OR you have lots of women to buy for birthdays in the Fall - grab some of these. Great quality, super price!
Personally, if I buy early for Christmas presents one of two things happen: 1) I forget that I bought it or forget where I hid it OR 2) I love it so much that I end up giving it to the person well ahead of time and have to buy something else anyway!!! It doesn't work for me, but I know so many well planned people out there who do this, so THIS IS FOR YOU!

Swarovski Crystal - so what?

I've seen buyers on Etsy helplessly baffled when reading jewelry sellers descriptions on their components, especially when industry-specific lingo or brand names are used. Usually, it's the jewelry creators who purchase these brands who know the quality or lack of quality or different grades of beads that can be used. It makes a difference to you, our customers, in price and pride of your new purchase!
Swarovski crystals are renowned world-wide for shine and lustre. Swarovski represents the height of unmatched quality, unique variety, crystal brilliance, latest trend information and cutting edge innovations...according to their website http://www.swarovski.com/. They don't just make jewelry components, but crystal figurines, home decor, desk accessories - anything crystal.
So, when you purchase earrings or a bracelet and the shop declares you are getting Swarovski crystal - you know the facets and shine will be clear and unmatched. Other crystals - there are many names and brands that mimic the Swarovski crystal shapes and shades but for top of the line - you'll want to find Swarovski.
Hope that little tidbit helps in buying some fine pieces of beautiful, handcrafted jewelry - check out all the great shops at http://www.etsy.com/ or specifically my shop is http://www.jensjewelry.etsy.com/.
See you soon!

June is a good month to order WEDDING JEWELRY

I like being a part of someone's most important day (of their life up to that current moment in time) and playing a role in creating a memory that they will have forever! I find it rather flattering to be chosen to take what a bride has in mind and make it just to her specification. Planning a wedding will have its own set of surprises and unexpected stressors so to be able to have a custom set of jewelry that matches perfectly and makes you feel beautiful - well, that's worth any price, isn't it? Just simply for the piece of mind!
What makes it custom? Well - usually someone sees pearl colors they like or a stone in the exact color that matches the bridesmaid's dresses and lets me know they are interested in getting a set for the wedding. I work with my clients and give them as many pictures as they need so they know it will be perfect when it arrives.
Custom doesn't mean expensive. It can be, but I try to make beautiful jewelry affordable. Check out my store: jensjewelry.etsy.com and see if something strikes your fancy for an upcoming wedding, dressy black tie event or just to make you feel beautiful!

International Shipping

Well - I'm officially an international company!! Hey - what can I say - I've only been in business a year.........yikes!!
Being a perfectionist, I don't like to make mistakes - especially ones that cost me money, so I was afraid of sending something illegal or not charging enough or something.
So - the wait is over - I am now accepting jewelry orders from THE WORLD!!
Wow.
Sounds scary but exciting all at the same time!
Visit my shop at jensjewelry.etsy.com and my new items and some fun summer jewelry - you're bound to find something!

Lovin' the Anklet for Summer

Yep. I love the anklet. I wear a plain sterling silver chain one all year 'round and pretty much always have it on.
Recently, I've added two anklets to my jewelry collection on jensjewelry.etsy.com and I'm so thrilled. It took me awhile to get the gist of the anklet, but for me it needs to be sturdy and sterling silver and feminine without being fragile. I love the dangly things too!! A little bohemian is always fun in the summer, romping around barefoot and generally wearing very casual clothes, short skirts, shorts or capri's, so the ankle is just screaming for some jewels!
Check 'em out - feel free to leave a comment - let me know what you look for in an anklet....

Shades of Brown

Coffee. Bark. Chocolate. Tan. No matter what, brown seems to soften us and make us grounded to this earth - yes, earthy would be a good term.
There's not much that doesn't go with brown tones and there is a brown tone for every skin type - from darks to bronzes to goldish browns, they compliment us.

I like brown these days - it's my new black as they say. Current clothing styles have brown tones now, especially shoes and purses - so one could say accessories, right?

Don't forget your jewelry. A good neutral is essential. Especially when traveling and you need to pack lightly.

Check out some of the neutrals I have listed at jensjewelry.etsy.com. You are sure to find something you like.

There's something about black....

Sometimes, just the neutral will do.
When getting dressed and hurried, often I find myself reaching for the black shoes because the go with pretty much everything. I have black sandals, black boots, black heels, black flip flops - it's just so much easier.
When trying to find the necklace that will match what I have on, I think the one that has predominately black stones or black in it will find itself at the top of the heap in my jewelry box. I have black casual necklaces - like interesting pendants strung on black leather cord and I have fancy black pearls and I have a black and silver number that gets a lot of wear.
It's fun to wear colors to match colors, but if you're a busy mom like me we seem to be the last one to get ready these days and often I don't have time to coordinate so I reach....for the black.
Tomorrow, I'll rave about brown!

Amazonite - My current favorite stone

Ahhh- summer. It's not official yet, but here in Florida it sure does feel like it.

Amazonite - this stone is such a reminder to me of the beach. All that is good at the beach - the blue clear skies, the fresh new bathing suits, the smell of suntan lotion, the cool sea spray off the azure waters......

Facinatingly enough, this aqua colored feldspar derives its name from the Amazon River. Amazonite, with its opaque pastel blue-green colors compliments many summer fashions if not the most critical summer fashion statement - the tan.

I've listed a few new Amazonite items in my shop - jensjewelry.etsy.com one of which is a cute sea inspired anklet in sterling silver. Check 'em out! Let me know what you think....

Back from the Beach

Happy Memorial Day - I'm exhausted. A seven hour trip up to the Panhandle of Florida this weekend began with a few hiccups including a broken transmission and an extra 3 hours tacked onto an already long drive....but we made it.
We were greeted with lovely beach weather and I was able to sift the sand for shells all weekend. I'll be looking through them in the light of day tomorrow to see if I got any with holes in them. I always have this vision of natural shells used in jewelry and as much as I'm concerned with the wear and tear of using real shells - aren't these ones that have weathered the pounding from the fierce waves of the sea and have arrived intact onto the beach? They should be able to stand a little wear from us humans, right?
I'll keep you posted on my progress - maybe get a picture or two.....I know I found at least two sharks teeth - I was more excited than my kids were...!! Go figure.

Another Sunny Day in Florida

Not.........today has been a rainy-ish kind of day. Not typical of this sunshine state, but nevertheless, we needed the rain. My grass is greener already!! (even on my side! haha!)

So, today has been a good day to create some new things but not a good day for taking the picture of those new items...so I'll leave you with a picture of these awesome lampwork sunflower earrings!! Check them out and other sunny items at jensjewelry.etsy.com.

And........don't forget to take the survey!

Thanks!

Earwire Survey

Please help me out by taking my earring survey.
As a custom jewelry maker, I'd like to know what today's women want in an earring. Do you like the comfort and security of the post or leverback? Do you like the swing and ease of the french earwire - or fish hook?
I'd like to invest in the most popular style, so it would be AWESOME if you click on your favorite!
Hey - thanks for stopping by today!! Checkout some great stuff on jensjewelry.etsy.com.

Custom Orders - Just Ask

Nothing warms the creative flames of an artist like a custom request. Almost everyone I know likes to be challeneged with a custom order. It's like giving us a mission - a purpose, not to mention a trip to the bead store! Yippee!.

CUSTOMER SERVICE, THE DIFFERENCE:

1) Vendor #1 - takes your info and offers one sample and hopes you like it. You make multiple changes or suggestions and the end product is OK but you don't feel that the person was creatively working on your behalf.
2) Vendor #2 - asks many questions up front to get a good idea of what you want (colors, style, size, etc.) and even seeks out your own style from website, designs and favorites. Then, this vendor offers a selection of options from which you can choose to be sure you are 100% satisfied with your order.

It can be a challenge communicating via e-mail, but when Vendor #2 (THAT's ME at jensjewelry.etsy.com!) goes the extra mile - customers are happier and THRILLED with their newly designed jewelry just for them!

Stars and Hearts

I just love hearts and stars. No big rave on this topic, just stating - not even really sure why I do but I do. I used to do graphic art and design WAY back when it was done by hand....so, I guess I like the nature of the shapes and that they can be embellished with swirls or lines or smooshed and still be very cool....

These elements are often found in my jewelry showing on jensjewelry.etsy.com, and a few examples are listed here.

Etsy is an online shop for all things handmade. Great and talented artists have their work for sale (not bidding like eBay) and you can pretty much find whatever makes your heart go pitter pat. Check it out! You'll be hooked, I promise!

Hot Summer Colors

According to the fashion runway reports, this summer's trendy, hot colors are: turquoise, hot pinks and oranges and yellows and they are even showing a deep purple color!

I agree that these would all look great with a tan, so let's dig into my jewelry box and see what I currently have in stock that meets this criteria. Check out these summer beauties on jensjewelry.etsy.com and meanwhile, I'm removing my blogging hat and putting on my designer hat and creating more summer styles!

Check back soon!