Delightful Designs by Robbon

Taming the Clutter

2012-01-09T22:35:00.001-05:00

Of all of the things going on in my home, the clutter control seems to be the most frustrating area to tame. Paper seems to land in my kitchen and multiply. Those pieces of paper remind me of weeds. They only need a simple glance and those little paper suckers multiply! Over the years I’ve tried all kinds of ideas. Bins for my paper, folders to categorize the paper on the countertop, a daily filing system with little slots to hold the paper, etc. All for nothing!

I’m not one for making resolutions, and never have since I’m a perfectionist and get all flustered if I don’t meet my resolutions, but I’m feeling propelled by the clutter to make a change that will really work for me and my family.

When I worked outside of the home (before children-lol), I never left home without my Franklin Covey planner, but I gave it away after I had my children thinking I’d never need it again…HA…and now I find myself wanting something to help me organize again. So, I’m going to tackle a few ideas that I have to help me tame the clutter. I’ll be sharing my strategies and ideas with you as I go along so you can be part of my ~~torture~~ growth. Maybe some of you even have fabulous ideas that you want to share with me! I’m taking baby steps tonight and I’ll update you tomorrow on how it goes! Fair?

In 2012, this is the year I plan on taming the clutter. Shhh…..this is just between you and me so let’s not tell everyone. mkay?

A puppy post

2012-01-03T10:43:00.000-05:00

This post has nothing to do with anything. It is just cute! Do you want to see something cute? Little puppies. Click on this to see the little puppies during the day!

Cheris Puppy Cam

2012…the year i….

2011-12-31T22:33:00.001-05:00

Good bye 2011, helleeeeewwwww 2012! You look mighty fine!

Alright everyone! You get to give me your input. Let’s chat it up. Don’t just read this and move on! SHARE! Send me your comments and tell me how you want to finish the statement.

2012, the year I…

(example) learned to play tennis
(example) went on a mission trip
(example) learned to live on less (and be satisfied)

Let me have it! Let’s get it going.

Internet Fun

2011-12-27T22:01:00.000-05:00

Every now and then I like to show you a fun place that I have found on the internet. I have NO idea how many of you already know about this website but it just struck me that I could share it with you. I’ve been getting the updates via email for months and here it is. This website gives great summaries of deals to be found. Yahoo!

You’re welcome! I have an ADORABLE one that I will share soon…

Cleaning {my oven} the safe way

2011-12-20T15:38:00.001-05:00

I want to share something great with you! Seriously! I’m going with healthy and green cleaners in my home. This is something that is VERY important to me for many reasons which I’ll share another day. For now though, I’ll share that in the past I have used the cleaning cycle on my oven to clean the inside of it. NO MORE! ha! ha! I couldn’t stand the smell in the house that lingered for hours, it made our dog cough (no lie), and then it always made me think about what exactly I was smelling. Hmmmm…awful smell!

This time I used this product.

Scour Off™ Heavy Duty Paste

I’ll show you the pictures so you can see for yourself what it did. Even after I used the cleaning option on my oven last time, this stuff was still left on the inside of my oven door. That is not right! ICK!

All I did was smear (that is an official cleaning term) it on, wait for about ten minutes, and then gently scrub with a wet rag and a toothbrush to get into the letters.

Wiped it off with a clean rag and….

I love it that I’m not using harsh chemicals, my house doesn’t smell at all, and this is safe for me, my family, and the environment! How great is that?

If you are interested in cleaning your home in a new and safer way, I recommend this line of products whole heartedly!

Here is the product I used - Scour Off™ Heavy Duty Paste

There are also a few kits that are great to start with.

Don’t forget to become a member because you will receive a 15% discount for a lifetime.

You might also like these posts to learn more.

Shaklee has a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If for any reason a Shaklee Product is not satisfactory, return it to your Shaklee Independent Distributor or Shaklee Corporation for exchange or full refund.

A few Christmas decorations

2011-12-16T15:16:00.001-05:00

Here are just a few simple Christmas decorations from our home.

Lampwork Love

2011-12-13T23:09:00.001-05:00

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Thank you for making the Christmas Open House a great success this year!

Everything sold and shipped! {happy dance}

This means so much to me! I put myself out there as an artist and it is so rewarding to have my designs go to other people and be part of their lives. Thanks to everyone who supports and follows my business!

Winner of the Earrings Giveaway

2011-12-07T18:42:00.001-05:00

Thanks for everyone who supports my blog and my business! I’m so pleased to announce this is the winner of the free pair of earrings - The Lazy Mom. Please contact me so I can get your mailing address. Congratulations!

Stuff I’ve said…

2011-12-06T18:46:00.000-05:00

Things I heard myself say today…

Which tattoo do you want? (the temporary ones)

Please put that in a tissue. That is what tissues are FOR!

I’m taking pictures so I can laugh about this some day.

Why are you apologizing as you come into the room? What have you done?

Please don’t pick your toe fuzzies while you’re eating breakfast.

********

Isn’t it amazing what we say when little ones are in our home?

Christmas Open House is LIVE

2011-12-04T20:00:00.000-05:00

Hello!

Here is the link. - CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE 2011

You can also get to it through my website till Friday. This link will be shut down Friday evening so don't waste time shopping!

Have fun and enjoy shopping!

Thanks for stopping by and the giveaway will be announced Tuesday. See post below to participate.

Christmas Open House TONIGHT!

2011-12-04T08:11:00.001-05:00

Just a reminder to stop by tonight at 8:00 pm for the new items that will be available.

Also, don’t forget to check out the post below to be entered into the list for the earrings. See the details below.

I’ll be a busy bee today getting everything ready!

My version of a Capiz Light

2011-12-02T08:36:00.000-05:00

My master bedroom had one of these ….

in the middle of my ceiling and it drove me nuts! I stared at it waaaay to much ruing the day that I decided to drag that thing home and put it up. I kept thinking I could do something with that light (barf and no offense if you have one), but I just couldn’t handle it anymore!

I saw this light on the west elm website and had seen a few ideas floating around on the internet so…

I did it!

I made my own light fixture, cover, hangy-down-thingy, and now I’m happy.

I used the frame of an old lampshade, wrapped some additional wire around the middle so that I could hang more strands of um….wax paper {cough, cough} from and went to work.

I melted layers and layers and layers of wax paper together, used a hole punch to cut out the circles, and then sewed for a few hours, off and on, till I felt the strands were spaced evenly and then I attached it to the previous light base.

Ahhhhhhhh……now this is much better!. You have to see it (well you really won’t be able to, now will you?), but it is be.a.utiful and now I smile when I look up from my bed, or randomly pass by my bedroom, or just pop in to peak at it. giggle

What do you think?

The Christmas Shop on Sunday

2011-12-02T08:09:00.000-05:00

I’m still working on the jewelry items for the online shop. Glass beads are everywhere and are being made into jewelry just for YOU!

Remember to come back here to the blog on

Sunday at 8:00 p.m. EST

That is not all though. Nope.

I got to thinking that it would be fun to give away a pair of earrings Sunday night during the sale and figured that would be fun, eh? Don’t you think so?

So, for everyone who is a member of this blog AND also likes DDbyRobbon on Facebook, you will be entered into the random drawing. The join and like options are in the right column over there. To your right….. lol Just being silly.

I will be giving away one pair of black lampwork, sterling silver earrings to one lucky person. Leave a comment below letting me know you are part of both and I’ll enter you into the drawing. Easy, peasy.

I’ll post the winner on Tuesday.

Cleaning {my kitchen}

2011-12-01T21:37:00.000-05:00

I have had so much fun trying Basic H out and making things squeaky clean. I’ll not keep you in suspense any longer. I mentioned that I was cleaning in my kitchen and that I used it EVERYWHERE! In the refrigerator, on the appliances, on my windows, on the floor, and yes, even on my wooden cabinets. I didn’t realize how much stuff had accumulated on my cabinets. That just means they are being used often, doesn’t it? Why, yes it does! I’m not fond of showing dirt around my home but I have to show you before and after pictures. I’ve used other products before and haven’t really liked the results but check this out! As I started cleaning everything near me (it became a challenge almost), I noticed this grime on my kitchen cabinet door. I don’t even want to know what it all was or how long it had been lurking there. Anyway…

there is my dirt BEFORE I cleaned it. Here is…

No tricks here. I did not play with the pictures or edit them. Just plan old pictures of this product at work in my kitchen. See, I told you it is great!

Since it is a concentrated product, here are some ideas of how you can use Basic H:

For all-purpose cleaning: Add 1/4 tsp. to 16 oz. of water.

For windows and mirrors: Add 1-2 drops to 16 oz. of water.

For degreasing: Add 1 1/2 tsp. to 16 oz. of water. For bigger jobs, add 2 oz. to 1 gallon of water.

Making my home cleaner {and safer}

2011-11-30T23:12:00.001-05:00

For a few weeks now I’ve been cleaning, purging and organizing here and there. Every now and then, I feel like I just lose control over the stuff here and I get all weird and have to clean like a mad woman (whatever that looks like).

I had been hearing about a company that sold cleaning products that were safe for the home and environment so I purchased a bottle and started using it right away. I had been looking for healthier and greener cleaning products so I thought I should try it. I was completely AMAZED by how very little of the concentrated product I needed to use to clean and also what a great job it does. The BEST part about the product is that it doesn’t smell noxious. My daughter and I have mild asthma, so cleaning is something that I dread for all of us. I don’t have to cover my nose and mouth when I use this to clean. Isn’t that great? Seriously! No fumes to burn my throat and nose. You know that feeling when you run to another part of the house to get fresh air. I don’t even get a tight chest. That is awesome to me!! What is this product? Well…..tada…..

Basic H

Have you heard of it? If not, let me introduce you to the cleaning product that has replaced the other ones in my home. It is a concentrated product and so you only have to use a few drops in a spray bottle for cleaning windows and 1/4 of a teaspoon in another spray bottle to clean all of the other surfaces. I LOVE IT! I have used it on nearly every surface of our home because it is safe for us. Phew…

I’ll show you tomorrow one of the things that I cleaned with some of this safe cleaning alternative. I’ll just give you a clue. It is something in the kitchen that opens and closes.

If you would like to know more about this and how to get it for your home, go here. I’d be happy to answer any questions you may have also.

Happy Thanksgiving to you

2011-11-24T08:44:00.001-05:00

Today I am thankful for all of the blessings I have in my life and I am also…

Thank you everyone for supporting me and my dreams.

I hope you enjoy this day and weekend with the ones you love!

2011-11-20T11:44:00.000-05:00

It is that time of year again when I host the online Christmas shop. I call it an open house but really, you shop online. {giggle} There will only be one of each item available so make sure you make your selections quickly and then check out to ensure YOU get the item(s) you want.

Your item will arrive gift wrapped and I will also include a gift card so all you have to do is sign your name and hand it to that special person.

Date: Sunday, December 4th

Time: 8:00 p.m. EST

Where: Right here! I'll post the special link at 8:00 and it will take you to the Christmas Shop on the website.

Favorite Things Party

2011-11-19T14:41:00.001-05:00

So….a few weeks ago, I had the time of my life laughing and being silly at a party. What kind of party you ask? Well…it was a “Favorite Things” Party. I was invited by my sister in law Carrie, who lives three hours away…(yeah), to attend and bring 5 of the same item that I consider a favorite of mine. Here is the kicker. The item couldn’t be more than $6.00. That made it easier on the bank account. It took me a few minutes to think about it but I FINALLY knew what to take! I can’t share it with you because then it would ruin it for my friends when I do the party here. I know. What a tease. There were a ton of women at this party and we laughed so much. That was so good to laugh. ahhhhhh

Here is what I came home with.

1. 3 glass votive holders (I think they came from Pier One)

2. a Vera Bradley zip ID case

3. a Yankee Candle

4. a Starbucks gift card (I told the lady sitting next to me if I got that, then God approves of my habit….lol.) thanks!

5. a cute little bag full of goodies like solar oil for cuticles, a nail file, gum, a finger nail clipper that catches the clippings, hand sanitizer and more.

Doesn’t that rock? I just had to share this great idea with you for us ladies who want to party without breaking the bank to share. If you have questions about this, just ask me. Go forth and share your favorites! Tell me about it if you have a party. I’d love to hear about it!

Still shopping for Christmas? Good!

2011-11-19T00:04:00.001-05:00

Well, half of the year has passed and I've been quiet, haven't I? I wanted to make sure that I let you know that I'm still here, still making custom jewelry and the.....

2011 online Christmas Open House is coming up!

For those of you who don't know what I'm talking about, let me bring you up to speed. I sell quite a few goodies on a special web page on my website once a year. It is a first come, first purchase and then the item is gone. I only make one of each item so when it is purchased, it is gone! I will tell you more details this week about the date and time.

I'll have bracelets, earrings, and necklaces available that night.

Christmas is coming! Wait, let's celebrate Thanksgiving first!

Yes, I'm Still Alive

2011-07-12T23:32:00.000-04:00

This is what I have been up to...being a mom more than anything. Other things seems to have taken a back seat (including making new jewelry), but I'm gearing up again for new designs and a new look for the blog and website.

Have you missed me? I'm back.

All for LOVE lampwork bracelet

2011-02-09T17:58:00.001-05:00

Here is a bracelet just in time for Valentine’s Day.

A lovely little lampwork heart and Sardonyx beads to make it a light and beautiful bracelet.

Tugging at my heart strings

2011-01-06T20:24:00.001-05:00

Does anyone want a stray cat that lives in Cincinnati? It is a long story but there is this adorable cat that I know NOTHING about that has come to our home and likes to come in and out and needs a home. Here is a picture of her.

She is very loving and loves to be petted. As you can see she doesn’t have a tail so I believe that makes her a Manx. If you are interested, let me know as soon as possible.

Happy 2011

2011-01-05T16:10:00.001-05:00

Another year is here and is full of potential! I’m not one for resolutions so I can’t really share any big things I guess. I’d like to drink less soda, lose a bit of weight and find more time in each day but those aren’t resolutions, are they?

I did mention the winds of change are blowing and that includes my website. I’m going to be changing the look of things in the next few weeks and I’m excited about that. So stay tuned for those changes.

I’m excited about this weekend. My oldest niece is getting married and our family will be celebrating their wonderful new beginning. I’ll show you after the wedding what I ordered for their wedding gift. I don’t want to ruin their gift.

I just felt like checking in to share a few things here and there and that I’ll be changing things and adding new products in the next few days.

Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas To ALL

2010-12-25T22:33:00.001-05:00

We have enjoyed our Christmas so much this year. Not filled with tons of crazy days. We’ve enjoyed our family and our festivities will end tomorrow. I think this has been the best Christmas I’ve ever had.

I’m just so grateful for every little thing in our lives.

Thank you family and friends for sharing Christmas with us!

Unfailing Love Lampwork Bracelet

2010-12-21T14:26:00.002-05:00

SOLD OUT!

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ORDERING THIS AS A CUSTOM PIECE, CONTACT ME.

I have a bracelet for you that has those lovely plum and purple colors in it. Such rich and warm colors. I just chose some of the beads and showed you a close-up of them so you could see some of the details.

Grab it while you can. I only have one!

Open House…..yeah….well…..

2010-12-19T16:04:00.001-05:00

You know how some times “something” has to give? Well this year the something was my Open House. I had made pieces and didn’t edit them and put them on the website because I honestly spent my time working on custom pieces for Christmas for my customers. My custom pieces take priority over Open House as I’m sure you can understand. My apologies. I put three pieces up that I had made and can ship them on 12/20/10 if anyone is interested in purchasing a bracelet for Christmas. It will arrive on the 22nd or 23rd.

I have another one I’m still working on editing. The colors are plum colors.

We’ve been visiting with family this weekend and have eaten so much food and hopefully burned off the calories consumed by swimming in the swimming pool, but I doubt it. Oh well. Enjoy life! We’ve laughed and had a fabulous time just being together.

Winds of Change

2010-12-12T10:31:00.001-05:00

I feel it. The winds of change are blowing and I’m ready to start changing things again. I’m starting with little things. To you it may seem little (well it IS), but I just wish I had thought of this sooner. I’ve had “toddler” bowls and cups for a long time now and I’m retiring them for MANY reasons. Mostly I’m tired of the color fights in the morning. They fight over who gets which color for a bowl or cup. DONE! DONE! DONE!

I went to a store to find cheaper bowls and brought these cream colored ones home. Ran them through the dishwasher and found they are Ikea bowls under the tag. That was a surprise! Now we don’t fight over bowls and I have a big glass for the big girl, and a little glass for the little girl so they know which one is theirs. AHHHHHH……peace.

Next I’m going to tackle my website and blog and things related to my business. I’ll tackle that at the beginning of the new year though. I don’t have the time now but I feel the wind blowing. It could also be the wind from outside. It is 28 degrees outside right now and snowing. No, it is just me getting ready for changes. oh joy!

The Open House or whatever I’m going to name it will be up this week. Working on it!

Doesn’t anyone have names to submit? Sparkle Sale? Cyber Christmas? Shop till you drop? Throw them out there gals.

Enjoy the ride, eh?

2010-12-08T20:52:00.001-05:00

So, I’ve been busy and so have all of you. What else is new, right? Right. I just thought I’d share with you what I thought was humorous tonight. I tucked the children into bed and came down to work on my orders and this…

is the sight I came upon when I walked into the room!

Now who could have possibly done this? Not me??? NO WAY! I leave things nice and tidy and ready for me to work when I return. Can I tell you that this just made me chuckle. Really? Now I have to clean up before I can work.

There is even a little Christmas berry on my desk that I have no idea how it got there. Hmmmmm?????

Apparently my workspace isn’t the ONLY thing that looks ~~crazy~~ like it needs some attention. My daughter gave me this picture she drew today and told me this is me! Great! I think she meant it as a compliment. : )

Even a 5 year old knows when I look a mess. giggle. What am I holding? An ice cream cone? I run around with those ALL of the time. ha! Isn’t it precious though?

What am I doing though, really. I’m busy working on custom orders and the open house is um….well…happening eventually ladies. My ducks aren’t in a row this year. As a matter of fact, there is not even a duck in sight!!! Darn ducks!

Fluffing Things Around My Home

2010-12-01T08:33:00.000-05:00

I have been repurposing, repainting, and reinventing for months. Here are just a few of the pictures of things I have done with paper, paint, glitter, and stuff around the house. If it doesn’t move, it has a good chance of being modified in some way. Don’t laugh. I’m serious! Just ask my husband. He moves just so I won’t paint HIM. I’m in a sewing phase now. Yeah…dangerous.

What is in this collage? Well, let me tell you.

A repurposed book that I tore apart to make a wreath for my wall.

A pillow I painted with black fabric paint to go on the bench I painted black. {sense a color theme here?}

A design that I put silver glitter on and put in a frame. It is so MUCH prettier in person. {You can’t see it sparkle}.

A fabric wreath I made for my front door that hung on a black canvas.

I repurposed book pages on my (home-made) tissue box cove. I also covered styrofoam balls with ribbon, string and book pages.

I’m onto making Christmas stuff now. I find glitter EVERYWHERE! I guess that is the price I pay for beauty around the house. giggle

NO WAY!

2010-11-30T21:49:00.001-05:00

Can I just tell you that I can’t believe it has been THAT long since I posted!!! NO WAY! oops. Sorry. Time has been flying. I hear it flapping around my ears this very moment. Surely you are experiencing it too!

Well, I guess I should follow up with the post that should have followed many, many weeks ago with pictures of the “Life Is A Circus” Bracelet. My friend came over and she rummaged through my beads and pulled these out for me to put together for her. She grinned when she put it on. How fun it was to watch a customer (and friend) make her own design before my eyes. Here it is.

Ok, so on to news in my family. Well, we had a wonderful Thanksgiving here and didn’t travel so it made it a relaxing and great time for our family. The tree still isn’t up but that is coming tomorrow night if all goes as planned. HA! Did you enjoy your Thanksgiving?

I’ve been crafting and creating here and there. I’ll put together a collage now and post it tomorrow. Deal? Deal.

Now, on to business news.

YES,

I’m going to do the Open House again this year! It is a comin’. Just hang in there for those of you who have been asking.

Do you think we should give it another name?

Let me hear from ya’ll and let me know if another name would be appropriate because it isn’t like you all are strolling through my home (which I’m thinking of doing next year).

So pipe up and let me hear from you!!! Bring out the names.

“Freedom” Friday

2010-10-08T14:20:00.001-04:00

How are you all doing? We are doing well here {thank God} and I’m now comfortable with the school routine in the morning. I should have it down by now, right? It has been a FEW weeks!!! Uh…4 weeks.

I’ve been doing crafts here and there, when I snag a few moments, so I’ll take some pictures soon and share them with you. Easy, fast, simple crafts but they have helped me get my creativity flowing.

Freedom Lampwork Bracelet

This bracelet is a piece that can be added to your wardrobe to make the perfect “pop” on your wrist. It’s simple, it’s cute, it’s turquoise colors. You know you all LOVVVVE turquoise!

Have a great weekend and I’ll be back soon with craft pictures.

Two shades of pink

2010-09-30T09:58:00.001-04:00

I was happily picking flowers one day to bring into my home when I saw this little lovely flower. My roses are either light pink or dark pink but this little one ended up being both. Isn’t it cute?

I have a new bracelet that I will put up later and a picture of a bracelet I made over the weekend while my friend was here visiting from out of town. I let her rummage through my “wonky beads” {those are beads that I think have a flaw} box and she came up with “Life is a Circus” and I’ll share it later after I edit the photos.

Happy Thursday!

WINNER for Cap Creations Giveaway

2010-09-29T20:25:00.001-04:00

Thank you all for participating, commenting, and

following us on our blog journey.

I am thrilled to welcome each new follower to my blog!!

Welcome!

Without delay, I will announce the winner of the gift certificate to

Cap Creations.

I’m happy for you Karla and I know you will enjoy whatever you chose. Honestly!

Thanks to Cap Creations for participating in this with me. She is awesome!

Cap Creations Giveaway

2010-09-13T21:59:00.001-04:00

I have made many wonderful friends through the internet and I want to introduce you to one of them today.

Cap Creations

Cap Creations sells hand stamped, sterling silver jewelry that is designed to be personal. I love it that you can customize the pieces. Isn’t that what makes jewelry so unique and near to our hearts? You will enjoy seeing the items in the shop, I just know it!

Look at this family necklace, “My Heart is on the Line” above, isn’t it great?
Look at this “Chosen” (adoption necklace) that is offered and can be personalized!!! You have got to read about his necklace and how a portion of your purchase can be used bless other families. What about wearing it to signify your relationship with Jesus Christ?

There are also beautiful rings and bracelets that can also be monogrammed to make that unique piece. The jewelry is beautiful and you will enjoy seeing the designs. Would I steer you wrong? No!

We have teamed up and are offering you the chance to get some beautiful new custom jewelry. I am thrilled to tell you that Cap Creations is giving away a $40.00 gift certificate! Isn’t that awesome? I’m excited for you!

To enter go to: Cap Creations and enjoy looking then come back to this post and let us know which piece of jewelry you’d be happy to have (or give).

Extra Entries: (leave a separate comment for each)

Follow Cap Creations blog HERE.
Purchase anything from Cap Creations for 5 extra entries, leave 5 comments.
Follow my blog (I’d be thrilled to have you with me on this life journey).

Open to US residents through Monday, Sept. 27. Winner will have 72 hrs to respond and claim their prize. Make sure we have a way to contact you if you should win.

REALLY?

2010-08-18T22:50:00.001-04:00

I took Mia school shopping tonight and I have to tell you it was funny. Well at least it was to ME. Mind you, she is heading off to kindergarten and the child needs shoes. My intention was to go find a pair of shoes or two and some clothes if we had the time. HA! Mia had a gift card from JC Penny so we went there first to find something for her to spend her money on and we NEVER made it out of the store. Can I just tell you that the girl spent it on two lip glosses? Really? TWO?

I couldn’t convince her to purchase clothes, shoes, accessories or anything. Lip gloss. ugh! (My mama didn’t rear me that way) That wasn’t the funny part. Nu uh.

We went to another department to look at clothes for Mia and all of the sudden I felt overwhelmed. Glitter, rhinestones, peace signs, crazy colors, lots of lace, etc. Clothes were everywhere and they all looked like clothes she shouldn’t be wearing at this age..to me. Apparently I freaked out a teeny, tiny bit because my daughter said, “Just settle down Mama. We can come back here later. Just relax.”
Really? Did I just hear that?
You should have seen the hand motions that went with it. Cracked me up. Needless to say, I’ll be shopping another night.
I gave up and left (with two lip glosses). Her little lips were slathered with that stuff and she was so happy.

Boxwood is da BOMB

2010-08-14T14:56:00.001-04:00

Boxwood isn’t just for landscaping (in my opinion). I LOVE it outside and have it for a border in my front yard landscaping, but I wanted to put my loverly container to use so…I purchased two bunches of plastic boxwood and plucked them all apart and make this arrangement for the house. It makes me smile! Isn’t that silly? I finally found a use for this container. I purchased it many years (like 12) ago and have used it for this and that but I think this will last a long time with its new use…a home to boxwood sprigs.

It is currently on my kitchen table but I’m sure it will migrate every few months to a new home.

I won’t bore you with the step by step tutorial because you all can see how it is done below. You’re welcome. : )

Simply Mesmerizing

2010-08-04T14:46:00.001-04:00

Quite a few years ago (let’s not mention how many, ok?), I went to see an exhibition of a few pieces from artist Dale Chihuly. I was mesmerized by the glass and how breathtaking it was. Beautiful colors, amazing shapes, enormous pieces of glass twisted into magnificent works of art. It is something you have to see in person to really appreciate! I’m thrilled that I got to see a few pieces of his work and would LOVE to own one of my own some day. I want a basket or a seaform some day. These pictures were taken many years ago so I had to scan them in but I wanted to share just a few things that I saw that day.

I was standing in front of this large piece. Fabulous. I grinned all day.

This one hung from a ceiling. I’m not doing it justice. It was VERY large and I don’t know if you can tell but it was in various shades of orange.

Now this one was on the floor and all of it was clear glass. I know it looks strange but I tell you it was wonderful.

Have you ever heard me rave over something like this? I’m a glass geek. I can’t help it.

If anyone else has seen some of his work, let me know. I’d love to hear what YOU thought!!

Call me a sucker but…

2010-08-03T22:14:00.001-04:00

when it comes to silly, sappy, “girly” movies, I fall for them and get caught up in them. I finally got around to seeing When in Rome. I loved it. It was cute and made me laugh and I totally fell for it. Sucker! I know, I know. I just can’t help myself. My poor husband.

Did anyone else think it was a good movie? Are you a sucker too?

I’ve been working on things around the house. I’ve spray painted so many things that my husband just laughs at me when I pick something up because he thinks I’m going to spray it. If it doesn’t move, it has a fair chance of being painted a new color. I’m nesting again. I have NO idea why but I just can’t seem to help myself. Move this, paint that, rearrange here and there, repurpose this and that. It makes life…unpredictable, right? That is how crazy I am. CRAZY I tell ya! Pretty sad isn’t it if that is all the more crazy I get? Oh well. I’m having fun.

2010 - Customer of the Year

2010-08-02T15:16:00.001-04:00

Connie – 2010 Customer of the Year

I am honored to say that I have had a wonderful customer these past few years and her name is Connie. She helped me design some wonderful pieces of jewelry and I’m so thrilled that she chose me to help her with sentimental gifts.

Connie is a woman that gives generously, loves fully, and enjoys laughter. She blesses those around her in a way that only Connie can. She is an avid gardener and flowers thrive near her.

Thank you Connie for blessing my life.

Name it

2010-07-30T15:38:00.001-04:00

View Full Album

Here is what I found in my window. What do you think was happening here and do you think this could have a title or name? How about – Don’t throw me under the bus? These are small little toys (fairies to be exact) from the Tinker Bell movie. No toys were harmed in this scene (that I know of).

Piece by piece

2010-07-30T07:51:00.001-04:00

“Really? Puzzles? NOW?” I ask. “Sure, let’s get them out and let Mama make some coffee and I’ll help.” I stagger towards the kitchen and notice the early hour and that she is totally ready to start her day. Me? Not so much at 7:10. Not THIS ready. Recently she has become fascinated with puzzles. Ashley wants to do them all day long. She is very independent and gets frustrated but sticks with it and I admire her diligence to complete the puzzle. She is only 2 1/2 and I’m surprised by her determination to complete them by herself. Her little face gets so serious while she puts it together. I love these phases. Soon we will be on another kick but for now, puzzles are IT!

Something new from something old

2010-07-29T08:29:00.001-04:00

I’m tired of using shoes as a door stopper so I made this yesterday to put at my back door. I wanted something that wouldn’t break but could function as a decorative element.

Ring a ling.a.ling

2010-07-26T19:05:00.001-04:00

When the phone rings, I get nervous. There is that moment when my heart races and I wonder if it is good news or bad news that awaits on the other end. I find myself dreading answering it at times. Too many people are facing big issues in life around us and I want some of the outcomes to be different. Ever been there?

Sale – Kaleidoscope Lampwork Bracelet

2010-07-17T20:49:00.001-04:00

Sale price is $48.80.

There are great colors in this bracelet. Red, lime green, royal blue, turquoise and white. This is a super fun bracelet with lots of colors and personality!

Sale price good till 7.18.10

Play with your jewelry

2010-07-16T07:53:00.001-04:00

Go ahead, play with it. Have fun taking it apart and putting it back together to fit your mood.

This is on sale till Sunday.

Sale – Chic Bracelet

2010-07-15T19:08:00.001-04:00

Calling all ladies who love to wear the wonderful kelly green color. I LOVE this color and made this bracelet, earrings, and pendant set. It doesn’t have lampwork beads but boy is it ever yummy! Check it out!

Sale – Timeless Beauty Bracelet

2010-07-14T21:31:00.001-04:00

Next item on sale. Price good through 7.18.10. : )

Sale – Full of Fun Necklace

2010-07-13T14:50:00.000-04:00

Today’s item to be added to the sale is a necklace with lots of colorful lampwork beads. This necklace can be adjusted to be worn short or long.

This item is being marked down for the sale to

$36.50.

I only have one and this will not be duplicated so grab it while you can. This sale price is good till 7/18/10.

More items being added to the sale each day!

SALE - Miracles Bracelet and Earrings

2010-07-12T15:15:00.001-04:00

Sale, Sale, Sale!

This week I will be having a sale on the items in my shop.

I will put a new item up for sale each day for the rest of the week, ending on Sunday. Don’t miss the sale.

Questions from Mia

2010-06-28T22:24:00.000-04:00

Each day brings wonderful experiences with children and I love it when Mia (my five year-old) asks questions. She asks questions ALL DAY LONG. Here are some recent questions.

“When is kid’s day? There is Father’s Day, Mother’s Day and Grandparent’s Day. When is it kid’s day?” I thought that was a wonderful question.

“Why are boys so rough? They don’t play like me and I don’t like their games.”

“Why can’t I marry Daddy. He can be married to both of us, can’t he?”

“Why do you get to drink Coke whenever you want to?”

“Is Ellie visiting with Grandpa in heaven?”

“The gas station is up the street? Do you mean up in the sky, in heaven?”

A what?

2010-06-25T15:13:00.001-04:00

I COMPLETELY forgot to follow up and tell you what this is. It looks scary doesn’t it? Well, it is called a frog. Yes, a frog. It is used in the bottom of a flower vase or container to help the stems stay in place when creating a flower arrangement. I use it all of the time and it keeps the difficult flower arrangements together when the stems want to flip out. Now you know.

You will hear me say…DAILY

2010-06-23T11:46:00.001-04:00

“Don’t make ugly faces at your sister!”

“Please use your manners.”

“Can you go get a tissue because I don’t really want that. Thanks though.”

“Does it help to whine?”

“I’m going to count to three.”

“Awe, how sweet of you to hug her. WAIT! Not that tight!”

“Please eat your food.”

“Please share.”

“Did you wash your hands?”

“I’ll set the timer and then you can switch when it beeps.”

Forgive me if I randomly say one of these things to you. I just can’t help myself sometimes…they just blurt out.

I’m going to do it

2010-06-22T14:55:00.001-04:00

I’m going to do it. I’m going to blog more often, I promise. I mean at this point, anything is an improvement, right? Right. I didn’t blog the past few weeks while we were out of town in Florida, but I’m back and ready to jump into it. I have felt guilty for not putting up new things so…my apologies. Okay, I’m done.

So what have ya’ll been up to? We went to Florida and it was wonderful. I’m in the process of getting all of my photos together (all 335 of them) and will post them (no, not all of them) soon. Walt Disney World was unforgettable and I SO enjoyed the delight of our children as they saw new things each day.

They danced on this bridge near the castle to music playing in the park. Simply precious.

Mark and his girls.

****************************************************

On to business. I have a VERY messy studio that I would be mortified to show to anyone which I need to be tidy up. I need to set up my new torch, concentrator, and all of the fun accessories I purchased. OH JOY! What is it about children that zaps all of our energy? I can’t seem to find any of it lately. Did someone hide it from me? I know they stash things all of the time and I’m going to run across it one day in a drawer under a shirt or in the zipper of a little purse here in the house. I just KNOW IT! If anyone finds some extra energy around your home, mail it to me. No, FEDEX it to me! I’ll pay for the shipping. giggle…

I’ll be back soon with pictures of two bracelets that I’ve been hiding and some pictures of my family.

Custom Design Stories - 2

2010-06-05T23:45:00.001-04:00

Men love to give jewelry. Thank goodness since women love to receive it also! A win, win for everyone. I recently worked with a husband who requested a custom lampwork design for his wife. It was her birthday and he wanted to have a necklace and earring set for her special day. We designed this necklace with pastel colors and a hint of blue so that she could wear it with LOTS of things in her closet.

He contacted me after her special day and told me that she loved it and he was so pleased to have a unique gift for her.

This is the part of my business that I LOVE! Working on custom designs and getting to know my customers and their stories. I LOVE it!

Take a guess

2010-06-05T06:55:00.000-04:00

Does anyone know what this is? I use it all of the time but wanted to see if anyone else knows what it is.

Care to guess?

Losing a pet is never easy

2010-06-03T13:01:00.001-04:00

We had to put Ellie to sleep because she was ill and it broke my heart. I bawled for a whole day and looked awful!! I don’t know that my eyes have ever been that puffy. I miss her and the very things that drove me BONKERS, make me miss her now. For example her barking while the kids were sleeping, stealing and eating the children’s toys, the dinner napkin snatching black and white hair all over the furniture and a myriad of things like that. I will miss the way she greeted us when we came home each time. We could have been away for 5 minutes and she still greeted us the same way. Unconditional love will be missed in our home.

Making roses out of crib sheets

2010-05-13T16:25:00.001-04:00

Recently I spent MANY hours near the bathroom potty-training my youngest daughter (I’ll refrain from showing those pictures). By the way, she is now potty-trained. Yahoo! I had a cream crib sheet that I had kept after we gave the crib away and was bored so I decided to make roses. Yes, roses! I made them by tearing strips of fabric and winding it around the center to create a rose. I sewed each one together on the back by hand as I wound it to ensure they would stay intact. I pin them to my sweaters, t-shirts, purses, and anything else that comes near me. The dog is lucky she isn’t wearing them. Hmmmm……now there’s an idea.

A castle in…

2010-04-29T07:39:00.000-04:00

Yes, we are headed to see this castle in Florida in a few months. You know the one. A business trip in Orlando will be near this magical place and so…we are going. Does anyone have any points, tips, tricks, or hints? We won’t be staying very long but I want to make the most of this trip for my four and two-year old girls. Mia is SO in love with princesses and we dress up and pretend ALL of the time. I am always the prince when we play. What? Why don’t I get to be a princess? Oh, I guess I lost track of my point. Oops. Since I’ve never been, I just thought I’d ask in case you have learned a thing or two in your adventures. Leave me a comment if you have pointers. Thanks a bunch!!!

WINNER for Giveaway #2

2010-04-28T08:02:00.001-04:00

And the winner is…follower….Dan and Karissa. Please contact Janice to claim your prize. Congratulations! You will LOVE whatever you pick. Thirty-One has great items.

Thank you everyone for playing along and a BIG thank you to Janice for being such a wonderful host for this giveaway.

Giveaway #2 is ending tonight at midnight

2010-04-27T11:29:00.001-04:00

Don’t forget to participate to have a chance to win $25.00 from Janice with Thirty-One! woohoo! They have beautiful things.

Full of Fun Lampwork Necklace

2010-04-26T14:17:00.001-04:00

Happy Monday! I’ve been in the mood to make VERY colorful designs and here is one of them. This is a GREAT necklace to wear with loads, no scads, of things.

Does anyone need to still shop for Mother’s Day? Maybe this would be a great option for your mom or someone else in your life. I also offer gift certificates if anyone would like to send a gift certificate. I can mail it directly to you or to an alternate address.

Winner, winner, chicken dinner

2010-04-23T18:05:00.001-04:00

And the winner is…Homemade Quilts by Granny for giveaway #1…the lampwork earrings.

Giveaway #2, the Thirty-One gift certificate for $25, has been extended till April 27th for those of you who would like to have a chance to win. Just a reminder that to enter the drawing, you can become a follower of this blog and leave a comment here for one entry of the item(s) that you like and then an additional entry if you become a follower of Janice’s blog and leave a comment here again telling me. Thanks to everyone who has commented thus far.

We have a busy weekend in store and I have so many pictures of custom orders that I want to put up so hopefully I can get them up soon. Ooooo…I also have a necklace that I put together that I will put up by the end of the weekend. So much to do and so little time.

Enjoy your weekend! I’ll be back soon!

Giveaway #1 – ending April 16th

2010-04-12T15:41:00.001-04:00

On The Bright Side Lampwork Earrings

Would you like to win these? These are sterling silver earrings that have two of my lampwork beads with little navy polka dots on them and Sodalite beads on top for the perfect addition to your wardrobe. Aren’t these fun? You can win them by becoming a follower of my blog (if you aren’t already) and by leaving me a comment below. I will pick the winner on April 16th in the morning after the Ultimate Blog Party is over. I would love for some new people to join the blog and follow along. Have fun and hope you win them and enjoy being a follower. I appreciate ALL of you. I really do.

I also have a giveaway that you can read about below. Followers, you need to make a comment for each giveaway item in order to be entered. Giveaway #2 ends later next week.

Giveaway #2 – ending April 24th

2010-04-12T14:35:00.003-04:00

I am SO pleased to offer a special to all of you wonderful followers. Janice, from Thirty-One is giving one lucky winner a $25.00 gift certificate. Janice is a customer of mine and I have enjoyed chatting with her and making a new friend. So, let me tell you about Thirty-One. It is a company that offers personalized purses, totes, fun accessories and a versatile items for the home. (check out the catalogs) You can personalize so many of the items, which make them unique and a great gift option for yourself or someone else (remember Mother’s Day is coming up). I also love that the company name is based on Proverbs 31 – thus…Thirty-One. Isn’t that wonderful? I purchased a wallet a few years ago and it has held up wonderfully.

For a chance to win the gift certificate, you can become a follower of my blog and leave a comment here on which item(s) strike your fancy. For an extra entry, you can become a follower of Janice’s blog also and then tell me about it. Only individuals who leave a comment AND are a follower of mine with be entered into the giveaway.

Have fun browsing and let’s see who wins!

The party is ON!

2010-04-09T15:06:00.001-04:00

A party on the internet? Are you kidding me? Nope! You can win great things HERE and many other places as well. Check it out and make sure you come back to be entered into my giveaway this week AND next. I look forward to checking out new websites, blogs and making new friends. I made new friends this past year (no lie) on the internet by connecting with some of you. I love it! Go browsing and come back to check out my giveaways. Yes, giveaways.

WELCOME! If you are new to my blog and website and are coming here from the UBP10, I will sum up quickly that my business is Delightful Designs by Robbon and I create jewelry that incorporates my glass, lampwork beads. That was easy, wasn’t it? No long, drawn out explanation.
Please leave a comment to let me know you visited. I can't wait to meet new people and have a few people join me along on this journey.

Here are just a few of the prizes that I thought would be fun to win.

US67 – DaySpring’s Blessings Unlimited Blessings Blocks

US90 – Country Chic 5×5 Fine Art Print- LOVE these. Simply beautiful!

USC 14 – Kids Personalized Music- I love that it can be customized.

US96, US89-10, US85.

Tools for your life

2010-04-02T13:00:00.000-04:00

I ran across a website, Bee Wise Bags, and while perusing the site, I found a resource of wonderful lists to print off and use. This company makes reusable items and 10% of their profits go to another organization in India. Go check it out. ANYWAY…what I really wanted to share with you is the Tool page. If you like to use lists, you just might enjoy adding one of the lists to your life. I for one will be using the “Task Tool”. I just now to have get an accountability partner to use some of the other ones.

I have some fun things to announce shortly, (no, I’m not having another child) so don’t you dare miss it! Shall I tease you? It starts with Free and ends with bies. Did you get it? You are SO smart.

Love on the brain

2010-04-02T00:45:00.001-04:00

For some reason, my four year old is VERY interested in weddings, falling in love, and marrying…right now! What is up with that? Today Mia saw a father walking with his son down the street and proclaimed to me while the man was still within hearing distance, “I’m going to marry him.” I couldn’t help myself and laughed out loud and then I asked, “Which one?” She informed me she planned on marrying the father. HA!

Then, when I was making dinner, again Mia came to me and said, “I have fallen in love with (we will just call him John to protect his identity).” That didn’t make me laugh. I gathered my thoughts and then calmly asked if he was a nice boy. “Yep” was all she said and then ran from the kitchen leaving me reeling. EEK!

How funny that she is thinking about this all so much. It isn’t like we have been watching movies or cartoons about weddings or discussing falling in love. I love her little mind.

Custom Design Stories - 1

2010-03-26T21:40:00.001-04:00

I love, love, LOVE doing the custom creations with my customers and I love the stories that I get to hear. I love hearing about the people for whom each design is destined and I especially love hearing about their reaction when the receive their gift. I want to share a few stores with you.

Below is a poem written by Jodi S.

“A custom-made necklace
Especially for you!
Personally, I love it
I know you will too!
It’s made out of love,
Silk and beads too
I had help from an angel
That is watching over you.
Its design is simple
Yet glorious too
With your favorite color purple
That looks magical on you.
Wear it out to lunch
Or a movie or a play
Enjoy this gift of Love
On your Special Day”

The poem accompanied a custom necklace that was designed for my customer’s mother to be presented to her on her birthday. The design was simple, but incorporated various shades of purple and lilac which is her favorite color. The lampwork beads have transparent and opaque glass layered and swirled so there is depth in each bead.

Thanks Jodi for giving me the opportunity to be part of such a special day for a special woman.

“Especially For You”

The pictures didn’t turn out very well because I was not patient when I took my pictures before I sent out the package, so I apologize for the quality.

Does anyone else want to share their story?

Cheeky

2010-03-25T15:11:00.001-04:00

Have fun checking out these new earrings that I made. I adore these! Full of color and personality!

Art

2010-03-24T18:37:00.001-04:00

A day without art would not be a good day for us. We love to color so we use paint, crayons, markers, pencils and anything else colorful to make ~~messes~~ art. Before Mia eats breakfast, she usually has a stack of paper, markers, and stickers so she can make a card for someone. She gives cards, letters, and pictures to everyone. I have to sneak papers into the recycle bin periodically at night after she goes to bed or else she finds them and drags them out. Been there? It isn’t that I don’t enjoy them and want to keep them all but the sheer number of creations is staggering. I love their art and their creations and will miss these days when they are old enough to go to school.

Working outside

2010-03-10T13:38:00.001-05:00

It is a wonderful day outside so I am working outside. Well, I’m taking pictures, blogging, and THEN I will work. ha ha

Yes, I’m still here

2010-03-08T14:34:00.001-05:00

Hasn’t it been forever since I have put anything up on my blog? Yes, it has! Thanks for you faithful followers who come back often and check. My apologies. The truth is I have been sick since the beginning of January. No lie. I hate to admit it and right now I am just plain MAD that I don’t feel better. Have you ever felt that way? I have an appointment this week to see a pulmonologist to get some idea of what is going on in my chest. I feel yucky every day and cough all of the time. I think of posting each day but I just haven’t been inspired by anything really. Whah, Whah. I know.

So how are all of you? You have been silent just like me. Is everyone looking forward to spring coming? I bet you are. It is coming. Yippee! Does anyone have a fun story or exciting news to share? Do share if you do.

I’ve worked on a few custom pieces that were simply spectacular but I sent them out without taking pictures of them. I was so upset when I realized I sent them out without taking pictures. I worked with a customer to design a lovely purple necklace and hopefully I have a picture around that I can share with you. I’ll work on that this week. I also had a chance to design a pair of earrings that were made with semi-precious gemstones that were stunning. I’m teasing you aren’t I? I’ll dig up some pictures to share this week.

That is all for now. Enjoy your day and I’ll be back soon.

Treadmill Entertainment

2010-02-11T14:51:00.001-05:00

I feel inspired to now make new use of my treadmill. My sister told me about this video and I finally got around to viewing it. Can you imagine how long it took them to practice? This video hit the spot for me since I’m going nuts inside with all of the snow outside.

Crazy lady

2010-02-07T18:00:00.001-05:00

Prednisone is great! I finally had to take a steroid to try to kick this infection and WOW, I have been flying around like a crazy woman today getting all kinds of things done. I cleaned my laundry room, went through the cabinets and cleaned them, cleaned my office, cleaned my kitchen and threw away a TON of things. I feel good and it is only 6:00 p.m. What will happen if I stay up till midnight? I’ll clean my house and my neighbors house at this rate. : )

I guess I’ll settle down and watch the game and the commercials but I bet you anything, that I will jump up and do other things because I won’t be able to sit still. Go prednisone, I mean, go Colts!

SALE.SALE.SALE

2010-02-05T22:17:00.001-05:00

I mentioned earlier in the week that I thought a SALE was in order and so…here it is. I’ve got a few pair of earrings, a few bracelets, and a necklace on sale. I only have one of each so grab the item while you can. The earrings are priced extremely cheap and I don’t think I’ll ever sell them this low again, so have fun shopping.

View Full Album

Spring fever has hit me bad and I CANNOT WAIT till the weather warms up and the birds start to sing. I have wonderful ideas floating around in my head and plan on working on beads to brighten up my shop for SPRING. I also have a few new design ideas that I’m looking forward to putting together soon. I guess all of that time either in the bed, on the couch, or on the floor playing, has taken its toll on me. I just want my energy level to catch up with my creative streak. For now I’ll enjoy the snow that is currently falling, drink hot chocolate tomorrow and break out the ready-to-bake cookies tomorrow. I plan on spending a cozy day at home with the family.

Have a great weekend!

Happy Groundhog Day

2010-02-02T11:15:00.001-05:00

Isn’t it cute? Mia made this at preschool yesterday and kept asking me yesterday when “hog day” was coming. Funny!

Sorry I've not been around. I was sick the entire month of January with pneumonia. Nasty bug to have I tell you. It humbled me because it left me with no energy and I was so sick that my husband had to do so much to help me around the house and my family brought meals because I was so ill. Now THAT my friends is humbling when you are used to being self sufficient and in control. I’m not the best at receiving gifts and this taught me to receive and accept them with gratitude I’ve not experienced before. Enough.

So, it is now February and I’m thinking of doing a sale on in stock items and a giveaway to kick off my 2010 year now that I have a wee bit more energy. Anyone in for that?

Be back soon with more details.

Not so fun start to 2010!

2010-01-13T11:16:00.001-05:00

Would you believe it that I have pneumonia? Go figure. I felt HORRIBLE yesterday and drug myself to see my physician and left with a stack of prescriptions. I don’t know that I have ever felt this awful even when I had the flu. Ugh! The antibiotics have kicked in and I’m feeling better today because I am thinking about things like food, hygiene, phone calls and of course, ya’ll (my blog). Well I’m off to the couch to watch the girls enjoy the baby crib mattress on the floor. No more cribs for us! Both girls are wearing little ballet outfits over their pajamas and acting like they are gymnasts. It is a site to behold.

I’ll end this post on a good note to say that my elbow is doing quite well. I honestly forgot all about my elbow while I was really sick.

Have a happy day!

Raise your hand if…

2010-01-06T14:47:00.001-05:00

You have the colors of the rainbow on your arm
Your dog keeps making horrible smells under your office desk
You recently went to a salon called “The Bubbly Hair Salon” and you left with your hair smelling like cupcakes (which is run by a four year old) gotcha
You thought a life-sized decal on a fast-food restaurant door was checking you out through the drive through window. Don’t ask. It is an embarrassing story. : )

I’ll raise my hand for all of the above. Anyone else?

Does anyone else feel like sharing today?

I forgot to mention

2010-01-04T12:57:00.001-05:00

I had a few questions from some of you and forgot to mention that I cannot move my arm. Ha ha! My elbow has so much padding on it and my arm and elbow is bound so tight that I cannot move hardly at all. It takes way too long to wash my hair and forget about styling it. It is humorous to watch me wriggle into clothing, coats and the such. Oh well. That is why this is a bit of an ordeal because I’m limited in some of the things that I can do. Obviously I can sit here and type though. You know, the important thing in life. : ) Blogging.

Oh so pretty

2010-01-04T10:39:00.001-05:00

I feel pretty, oh so pretty. You know the feeling.

I get my bandages off in a few days and I can NOT wait! It hurts, it itches, it drives me nuts and all of the fun stuff that goes along with having surgery. I’m doing alright and will be glad to hear if the sensations I’m having are normal. ugh!

My home is…shall we say sparkling. Not because it is clean. ha ha. No, because there is glitter EVERYWHERE! It is so cute to see all of these little art projects on every surface and hanging from most of the doors. Glitter glue and glitter were part of Christmas this year and the girls have had a great time making little beauties every day since Christmas day. Want one? I’ll gladly send you one or FIVE!

I’ll be back

2009-12-28T22:36:00.001-05:00

We had a wonderful Christmas and I’m always so sad when all of the festivities are over. I don’t know why, but I am. Does anyone else ever feel that way? I took down the tree and all of the decorations today because I won’t be able to do it later, or at least for a while. I’m having surgery tomorrow to move my ulnar nerve so I’ll be out of commission for a while. I’ll be glad to stop the frustrating discomfort and look forward to being better. So for now, I’m signing off and wish all of you a Happy New Year! Can you believe it is going to be 2010? Not me!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T21:00:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas from my family to yours!

Enjoy your gifts lovingly presented to you.

Full of Adventure

2009-12-09T22:28:00.001-05:00

Someone (I can’t name names because this is a surprise), who has lived a most adventurous life, is receiving a custom bracelet this year for Christmas from her friends. Oh, what wonderful stories she has of her adventures and trips I am told! She is “Full of Adventure” and is still going strong and she is 70+ years old. I hope to have wonderful tales to tell as the years go by of places I have been able to see and adventures I have been able to share with my loved ones. Anyone else have big (or small) dreams that you hope to fulfill? I want to travel to New Zealand first and then Italy and then France. I can dream!

It is almost time

2009-12-07T05:39:00.001-05:00

Did you forget? Well this is your reminder that tonight at 8:00 EST, I’ll put the link up on my website to the open house. I’ve been working, working, working to get everything ready and I just worked through the night editing photos and building the pages. Surprisingly, I’m alert! It could be the coffee!

I’d love for you to come back tonight. Stop in for a visit online and leave a comment, make a purchase or two or three, or send me an email to let me know you visited. I’ll be around tonight.

Have a good Monday!

Shop, shop, shop

2009-12-01T09:01:00.001-05:00

The online Open House is in one week!

For those of you who weren’t part of this event last year, let me explain how it works. Next Monday night at 8:00 p.m. EST, I will put up an Open House link on my website. All of the items in the Open House portion of the website are ready to be shipped to the FIRST person who purchases the item. Only one of each item will be available IN the Open House portion of the website.
Once an item is purchased, it will show as sold out and that item will no longer be available. Your purchase will arrive gift-wrapped and ready for you to put under a tree or in a stocking. I will leave the Open House link up till Friday evening but then I will remove the link till…next year. Oh what fun! If you have any questions, contact me and I’ll be happy to answer you.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T07:05:00.001-05:00

I am thankful for the simple things in life. Food, clothes, a home, health, and grace to live life every day. I’m so thankful for my family and the little voices I hear each day! I have been richly blessed!

I’m also thankful for my customers and those who are willing to share this journey and business with me.

Thank you so very much for your support!

Enjoy your day as you take time to visit with family and friends and remember what you are thankful for this year.

6 Volunteers?

2009-11-20T16:57:00.001-05:00

I would love for six people to help me, if you are willing. I’m asking for volunteers to answer questions and give feedback. I like to know what you think and am wondering who would be interested. I would like to work with three of my customers and three individuals who are not customers to help me. If you would like to help me out, just leave a comment below to notify me. I won’t publish your comments in case you are wondering. I would really appreciate your assistance! I promise it won’t take much of your time. : )

Spunky

2009-11-20T06:24:00.000-05:00

This piece is already sold, but I wanted to show you a recent custom designed bracelet that I created for a customer. It is adorable! Black and white with a simple, but fun twist.

Bag Lady (Girl)

2009-11-19T21:09:00.001-05:00

Mia has, shall we say, an affinity for purses, bags, boxes, containers, or anything that will hold ~~junk~~ treasures. I have so many collections in this house stashed in the above mentioned items, that it boggles my mind. The other day I saw Mia creeping up the stairs with these on her arms and just HAD to take a picture. I counted her purses. I found seven. No lie. SEVEN! Each of them had little treasures within and she could barely carry them all but here she is in all of her glory. My dear, little bag ~~lady~~ girl.

No, she never takes a normal smiling picture in case you were wondering. : )

Who flipped my switch?

2009-11-18T08:00:00.001-05:00

I haven’t had energy or any spunk in weeks, no, more like months but today…I have energy! Who flipped my switch while I was sleeping? I have LOTS to do today and look forward to tackling my to do list. How about you? Do you have energy and feel chipper?

Just a reminder that my Christmas Open House is coming up in a few weeks! I’m busy, busy, busy, making lampwork lovelies!

Painting

2009-11-08T20:16:00.001-05:00

For some reason I have been in the mood to paint. I’ve had canvases around my home for years and I got this wild desire to use them all of the sudden. So, I have been painting. Now, mind you, these are NOT great works of art and were created very quickly, but it has been fun to paint. I painted the small flower one while I was cooking the other night. Voila! A new piece of art to hang up in my office.

Full Trash Can

2009-11-07T11:24:00.001-05:00

Dinner was a total flop! I should have known when I found the outdated box of rice that I should just order a pizza. My can opener decided not to work at ALL (it is now in the trash can) and the onion that I needed to use was mostly mush (it is in the trash can) and when I finally got dinner done and on the table, the pork chops were so salty (I tried a new recipe) I couldn’t even eat it (it is in the trash can). The girls were picking the little pieces of pilaf out of the rice pilaf saying that they were beans. UGH! It was a funny, family dinner for sure. I just pulled out leftovers out of the refrigerator, from the night before, and that was that. You know those dinners, the ones that no one will eat? Oh well. No, I will not grace you with pictures since it really was THAT BAD!

Best Before

2009-11-06T16:26:00.001-05:00

I must run and get my reading glasses. SURELY that does not say best before 2/2007?????????? Seriously? Apparently time flies and I haven’t made this type of rice in a VERY long time. How embarrassing. Well, not embarrassing enough to not share it with all of you! What is the oldest grocery item you have found in your home? The picture is lousy but you get the idea. Back to the kitchen to find something a little more current to cook. ha ha

Christmas Music?

2009-11-03T12:09:00.001-05:00

Seriously, Christmas music NOW? I still have pumpkins and candy all over my house. Christmas music? I’m SO not ready for this just yet. BUT, if you want to listen to some, you can listen to this radio station online. I’m still in denial that Christmas is approaching.

Clomp…clomp…clomp

2009-10-30T14:38:00.001-04:00

I have been “clomping” (that is the word I made up for the sound of me walking with this shoe) around for a few days now with this lovely shoe. ARGH, MATEY! I sound and look like a peg-leg pirate walking through the house. Swaying one way and then the other trying to walk in this shoe that won’t let me move my foot. Three weeks of this? Holy, moley! I’ve taped my toes together and that will hopefully help my toe heal properly and I REALLY look forward to walking in a regular shoe again. Ahhhhh. Y’all feel free to run out and get yourselves one of these fashionable shoes. They are ALL the rage!

On to other items. The girls went to a party this morning and have started their sugar feast. This is NOT a good picture but you get the idea. They wouldn’t sit still and wouldn’t smile so this is all you get for now. I will be in the presence of Cinderella and Snow White this year.

A lovely morning

2009-10-26T09:55:00.001-04:00

I am pleased to say that I am enjoying the season this year. Normally I really detest this time of year but the colors are spectacular this year and I’m really making the effort to enjoy the sights, sounds, smells, and beauty of these days. This is what one of our trees looks like this morning as I look up into the crystal, clear blue sky. Beautiful!

Going to see an orthopaedist in a little bit to see what can be done with this wonky (isn’t that a funny word?) baby toe.

The other direction

2009-10-25T04:49:00.001-04:00

My pinkie toe seems to be going in another direction than all of my other toes on my left foot. Bummer! This is what ran through my head following the unusual bump into my family room chair.

I don’t think my toe is supposed to be going THAT direction.
I wish I had taken my shower earlier today.
My toe nails are not painted and I still have chips of paint on them from my hasty nail polish removal yesterday!
Am I going to have to drive myself at this hour?
Can my husband just yank my toe back into place?

No, he didn’t yank and yes, I drove myself to an urgent care center. Someone had to stay home with our sleeping girls. : ) I have the x-rays to prove that it IS broken (duh) and that I have to wait until Monday to have anyone really look at it. Great! NOTHING is on television after 2:00 a.m. Seriously. Nothing worth while at least.

That does it for me for now so I’ll check back in when things are going in a better direction. ha ha

Friends

2009-10-23T22:30:00.000-04:00

This post has nothing to do with jewelry so feel free to just keep right on going to see other sites. I just have this in my heart and wanted to get it out. I have been blessed with such wonderful friends. You know, sometimes it is hard to meet kindred spirits or other women who share similar stages and goals in life. I have found quite a few over the years and am blessed to be their friend. Mind you, I’m the oldest of most of them. How did THAT happen? UGH! The point is though that I’m SO thankful for the lovely ladies in my life and value them so VERY, VERY much. I love you dearly each and every one.

Some of my friends have been through very tough life experiences and I’m so thankful that they have found peace and joy in the midst of such chaos. God is faithful and provides exactly what we need, when we need it. I’ve seen that time and time again in the lives of my friends. Now if only I could remember that when I am standing at the bottom of a hill and don’t want to climb it.

Ashley turned TWO

2009-10-23T10:39:00.001-04:00

Ashley's birthday wasn't really the special day that had we planned, but since both of the girls were sick and had fevers, we stayed home and played in our jammies. Ashley is a delightful little girl and makes us laugh all the time. My baby girl turned TWO! Time is flying.

Just Because Bracelet

2009-10-22T06:21:00.000-04:00

Follow this link to see.

Enjoy your day!