BeadNestDesigns

Personalized Sketches

2010-01-17T12:19:00.002-05:00

A few months ago, I commissioned a sketch for my daughter for Christmas. She is a competitive gymnast and I wanted to to commemorate her achievements. I contacted Maria of Personalized Sketches and she put my thoughts onto paper. This is the result... Beautiful isn't it?? :DMaria has an amazing talent - she creates beautiful artwork using names! My daughter's sketch is the 2nd I have asked Maria to complete and I've been so happy with her work. Her skill as an artist is phenomenal and she's great to work with. If you're looking for a unique and personalized gift, contact Maria at Personalized Sketches on Etsy!

2009 Comes To A Close

2009-12-27T10:23:00.004-05:00

I haven't had much time in the last half of 2009 to blog :( Here's a quick run down...

1 year cancer-free
Half way through my graduate coursework
New boss, new rules and things are looking up
New little rescue dog who wants to play with the cats but they aren't so sure about him

I'm finding little time for Etsy, but am still trying to keep things afloat. I made a new pair of earrings for the first time in ages so I'll show them off here! :)

Hopefully blogging will be more frequent in 2010! Happy New Year everyone!!

It's Been A Year...

2009-07-18T12:01:00.004-04:00

It's been a year, a glorious year since that stupid cancer diagnosis. And I'm here, I feel good and have no complaints! Cancer might be stupid, but life is good!

Today's post is about cancer, but not my own. Instead, it's about a hard fought battle and 2 other lives... lives I didn't even know...

I would like to introduce you to the Morgan family. Last Fall, 11Alive News aired a story about Ryan, apparently someone stole his new puppy. Was this big news? Well not what you would call big news to the Atlanta area but it was big news for this family. You see, it wasn't an ordinary puppy and Ryan wasn't an ordinary little boy; Ryan had cancer and the puppy filled him with joy. It was a sad story that you hoped had a happy ending...

It had been months since hearing anything about the Morgans - until the article in this morning's newspaper: http://www.onlineathens.com/stories/071809/new_465317158.shtml . I do not know this family but their story is a tribute to their strength and love for one another. I learned much more by visiting their blog: http://superryan.blogspot.com/ and encourage you to do the same. There are stories like these unfolding all across America every day, however this story was in my own backyard and so close to home.

So today's entry is about cancer... though not my own as I am here to write this post. It's about a family who has shown this community what's most important in life. And the community will pay tribute to them this afternoon. This is my little tribute to the Morgan's... I hope you will get to know them...

3 Months Later... Lots of Changes...

2009-06-11T10:04:00.010-04:00

Blog neglect, blog neglect, blog neglect. Yes, I'm guilty as charged. It's hard to believe that it's been 3 months since my last post. What have I been doing all this time? In a word or 2... work and kitties. It's been a busy 3 months. We've closed out another school year and have begun to get ready for yet another (ugh!). On a personal note however, there have been a few changes around the house. My beloved 10 year old kitty, Smokey, went to kitty heaven last week. A few months ago he was diagnosed with kidney disease and we've spent these months treating him with subcutaneous fluids and frequent visits to the vet. Our efforts helped keep him comfortable for a few more months, but the disease finally took him from us. He passed away in the early afternoon of Tuesday, June 2 and thankfully my husband was with him. I don't think little animals understand what happens as they approach death but I know they are aware when their people are near so having human comfort was important... and I'm thankful.

Smokey was my faithful companion for 10 years - he knew all my secrets and deepest fears. He was a loving lap cat and if you sat down in 1 place long enough - he would plop down and purr for as long as you would let him. He was patient as his house was overrun with 4 orphaned kittens - he welcomed them and loved them as if he were one of their clan. He was an escape artist - as an indoor cat he loved to run outside and roll in the dirt whenever given the chance. He was loyal - he would follow you all over the house and spent many hours at my feet as I worked in my studio, often looking at me as if to ask "why can't I play in the beads too?" He was unique - a solid black, long-haired cat with a few "freckles," random white hairs atop his head and neck. Smokey was adopted from our local cat shelter when he was 5 months old and the worker said she had never seen a solid black cat with wisps of white fur, they always had white patches... but not Smokey.

I've owned cats all of my life, I still have those 4 once-orphaned kittens (they are now 2 years old), but never has there been a kitty like Smokey. He will be missed and I'm so thankful to have had 10 wonderful years. The picture above represents him well - big ole Smokey and his little "little sister" (orphaned kitten) Princess. Princess loved Smokey, she always sat near him, groomed him and followed him around. To post his picture with her is a tribute to his kind and gentle demeanor. Smokey... you were the best and we love you. Rest in peace my dear furry friend...

Treasury-O-Rama

2009-03-07T20:05:00.007-05:00

Well... I should be arrested for blog neglect. It's been a month since I posted last - where did February go???????? Lots of things have happened... let's see if I can hit the highpoints...

They say timing is everything and I just managed to grab a spot in the latest round of treasuries! This one is bright and festive, "SUNFLOWERS for the SOUL" - with the week we've had around here, I needed something happy and cheerful! This list will be around through next Tuesday so if you have the chance, stop by and have a look!

I also must send a big THANK YOU to Jessi of JessiJewels for adding one of my pieces to her most recent treasury "ALL THE HUGS"!! Her treasury ends late tonight but I still wanted to give her a bit of blog love. :) Here's her latest materpiece...
I also found myself in a "MILK CHOCOLATE" treasury by MaisyandAlice. The title would make this one a big hit, but it is filled with all sorts of fun and beautiful pieces! Please check out MaisyandAlice too - there are some gorgeous felted pieces in this shop, you'll fall in love with them I'm sure!!!

Just over a week ago, I was also featured in a "LEMON EARS" treasury by ForbesFarm. Sadly, her treasury didn't make it to the blog before it expired - it was gorgeous though and I wanted to thank her too!!! Have a look at all these great sellers: JessiJewels, MaisyandAlice and Forbesfarm - their shops are filled with gorgeous pieces!! Thanks ladies, it was so sweet of you to include me in your beautiful treasuries!! :)

Again Again Again!

2009-02-08T19:10:00.004-05:00

Another great day, relaxing yet productive. I put together a new treasury and waited - I just knew I would be able to capture a spot since treasuries would open this afternoon.... alas, I was wrong! I missed the infamous blue box by 30 minutes. Ugh! So as I scrolled through page after page of new treasuries, imagine my delight when I saw that fabulous golden star - and it belonged to a treasury of a dear Etsy friend!

Sarah Jane of Genuine Article curated a magnificent "Bright, Bold and Beautiful!" treasury! It's so colorful and filled with many gorgeous pieces from other Etsy friends!! This is a treasury worth visiting... but hurry, it expires early early Wednesday morning! And while you're visiting... have a look at Sarah's Etsy shop too. She makes beautiful jewelry - I actually own quite a few pieces and am always receiving compliments!!

Thank you Sarah, adding me to this list is a real honor!! :)

Again Again

2009-02-06T22:38:00.003-05:00

What a nice surprise... I checked the treasury list and found myself in a list curated by MaisyandAlice! I love Jill's felted pieces - you really should have a look in her Etsy shop!!

Her latest treasury, "Cranberry Clouds" is filled with a beautiful combination of cranberry, black and white - please stop by and have a peek at all the gorgeous pieces and other talented Etsy artists! Hurry though, this treasury expires early Monday morning!

Thanks for including my garnet earrings in this awesome list!!! :D

Been A Long Time...

2009-02-04T21:06:00.003-05:00

... Since I made a treasury! I love this one... it's filled with.... well, I named it "Wish You Had Some Fuzzy Balls?" so I wonder..... :) It expires in 3 days so please stop by! I'm also in a treasury made by my friend Amanda at Chloe Boutique (oh do check out her shop, she has great things and I know since I'm a customer too!!). Her treasury also expires in 3 days and is titled "I LUV my Etsy Friends" so have a look!!

Catching Up

2009-01-24T22:15:00.001-05:00

On my reading...

And one of my Etsy friends, Sue, had this little test on her blog... so I tried it too and here are my results... I really think I agree!

Your Word is "Love"

You see life as possibility to form deep connections with a few people.
Relationships are the center of your world, and you always take time to bond with those you love.

You are caring and giving. You enjoy helping those you love.
And when it comes to romantic love, you feel passionately ... even in a very long term relationship.

What's" Your Word?

PINK OUT!

2009-01-19T21:19:00.010-05:00

The Univeristy of Georgia Gymnastics team hosted Utah today at the annual "Pink Out Meet" - a meet that helps raise awareness for breast cancer and for the Athens Regional Breast Health Center. UGA Gymnastics sponsors many events that culminate in the Pink Out meet and include selling pink meet t-shirts, raffling a scooter and the Stiletto Race. The cause is great and the ultimate reward supports local women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. It is estimated that these efforts have raised more then $100,000 this year - what a way to show how wonderful things can occur when everyone works together!

Flying high on the vault and beam! These girls make it look so easy!!! :)

As a final note... my daughter is a competitive gymnast and it's great to see college-level girls setting a great example of community service. Their competitive spirit is also heart-warming, they show us all what can be accomplished with hard work and commitment! By the way... Georgia won the meet 197.150 to Utah's 196.725!! Gooooo Dawgs! Sic 'em!! Woof woof woof!!!

Send in the Clouds

2009-01-19T10:05:00.002-05:00

Time to update the blog... I have been negligent...

Did you ever lie in a field or your yard as a kid and just stare at the clouds? Did you see so many different shapes of animals and things that just made your smile? I guess clouds are timeless and ageless. You can just get lost watching them and sometimes I think that's a good thing! Every artist in this list saw something different in the clouds and I love what they saw!! So please have a look at this CLOUD treasury before it ends Tuesday morning!!

Bowl Mania!

2009-01-02T20:49:00.008-05:00

For those who know me... I am a tried and true Georgia Bulldog fan! I must confess, once upon a time I was a serious fan of one of our most intense SEC rivals (who shall remain nameless on this blog) but - I came to my senses! Graduating from UGA also helped!

There's nothing more exciting than to watch the school you love excel in all aspects, including athletics. UGA has had a phenomenal run in 2008, some of it's accomplishments include: the baseball team making it to the finals of the College World Series, women's Gymnastics winning their 4th consecutive and 9th overall NCAA championship and our football team beating Hawaii in the Sugar Bowl. My family and I have had the pleasure of watching many of these events in person but even when we weren't in the crowd, we were always there in spirit!

So how great is it that Georgia has begun 2009 with the same fervor that we ended 2008!! This year begans with a 24-12 victory over Michigan State in the Capital One Bowl! Goooooooooo Dawgs, sic 'em!! Woof woof woof!!!!! Love that trophy carried by a proud Georgia football player!I must admit though, UGA isn't the only college team I follow. My brother Sean was a member of the University of Southern California marching Trojan band, he's now received 2 degrees from SC and currently works with the band. He and I had lots of fun yesterday... I here in Georgia, he in Pasadena! How did we have fun you ask? Texting of course!!! As I watched SC trample Penn State on TV, Sean was there in the stands - so in a crazy sort of way, we watched the game together! Gotta love modern technology! Brother Sean and the SC post-game concert below... What are we going to do now that football season is over???????

Treasury Love

2009-01-02T10:11:00.004-05:00

Today is the last day of my Christmas holiday break, I return to the daily grind again on Monday. I'm so conflicted... I love the freedom of coming and going as the mood hits but I also love the prospect a new semester will bring...

Unless I discover a way to freeze time, Monday is inevitable. So it was such a nice surprise when I checked the Etsy treasuries this morning - my dear friend Jennie included me in her "Yes, I'm Ready!" treasury! Thank you for thinking of me as you put together this beautiful list!! It is active until the wee hours of Monday morning - go have a look at all the gorgeous pieces Jennie included!! And while you're cruising treasuries, please visit Jennie's shop and all her beautiful handmade bowls, infant snuggle sacques, rugs and more at SosoRosey! :D

What A Day In Atlanta!

2008-12-27T21:55:00.011-05:00

It's no wonder why I haven't added any new items to my Etsy shop. First there was the end of the semester, then Christmas and visits with the family and today - a wonderful trip to Atlanta.

We (3 adults, 3 kiddos) began our day visiting the King Tut exhibit at the Atlanta Civic Center. Words cannot describe the magnificence. Sadly, photos were not permitted so I cannot share the various artifacts of Ramses II, Akhenaten, Amenhotep III and Tutankhaman. The beauty of the gilded and solid gold jewelry, shoes and coffinettes is indescribable. The detail in each carving was exquisite artistry. The photo below depicts a statue of Ramses II found in the exhibit.

After spending a couple of hours looking through the King Tut exhibit, we made our way to the High Museum of Art to see 3 fabulous exhibits: China's Terracotta Army, Medieval & Renaissance treasures and pieces from the Louvre. Each exhibit was unique so here are a few highlights and photos...

China's Terracotta Army was the most impressive. Discovered in 1974, the first Emporer of China, Qin Shihuangdi, constructed an underground tomb complex, complete with life sized terracotta soldiers and other figures. To date, over 1000 figures have been excavated but archeologists believe there may be as many as 7000! These figures were most impressive - from the assembly line method of production, the stamping of names on pieces to ensure "quality control" & "accountability" and the details in the terracotta costumes, hair and even musculature. The faces of each soldier is unique and different - a testimony to the expertise of those constructing the clay warriors. They stood guard over the Emperor in his afterlife, for over 2000 years! Below... 2 examples of the terracotta soldiers...

We also visited the Midieval/Renaissance treasures. Lots of gorgeous pieces and the influence of the Church was evident from an ivory carved book cover (below) to an ivory and gilded diptych. I was most intrigued with the notebook of Leonardo daVinci... how incredible to see his writings!

Finally, we visited the Louvre exhibit which included vessels, paintings, sculpture and assorted carved pieces. The red chalk drawings by Michelangelo which included the "Ideal Head of a Woman" is simply beautiful and very different from what we associate with Michelangelo!

While today was a full day, we did manage to have a little fun... here's the kids playing in front of a piece of modern art...

Educational, enlightening, amazing and fun... what a day in Atlanta!!! :D

Grinning From Ear-to-Ear!

2008-12-03T20:37:00.002-05:00

Wow!!! I received this neat little message on my blog this afternoon and discovered my dear friend Amanda of Chloe Boutique had sent me the "Spreader of Love"award!! Thank you Amanda - you just don't know how much that means to me! Especially today - it's been one of those days where the love just hasn't seemed to flow around me very much! Everyone has been a bit cranky at work... But... tomorrow is a new day and I will definately spread the love!

But tonight - I will spread the love to my friends in the blog-o-sphere... So here's the rules:
(1) Post a copy on your blog
(2) Mention who gave you the award.
(3) Pass the award on to 6 others.
(4) Leave a message on their blog letting them know the honor has been bestowed upon them.

And now... it's my honor to pass this loving award on to the following blogs:
1. Sue at Signature Sterling
2. Donna at Creative Treasures
3. Sarah Jane at The Genuine Article
4. Jennie at SoSoRosey
5. Linda at Considerations
6. Charlotte at Owl Love To Stamp

Have fun girls!!! :)

It's Been A While...

2008-11-30T00:00:00.005-05:00

So much has happened the past few weeks - where do I begin??

First... my daughter has completed her competitive gymnastics season - she qualified for her Level 5 State Meet and placed in 2 events (Floor and Vault)!!! We are so proud of her and all of her accomplishments this season!

The "off-season" has begun but there's never really an off-season - the girls will continue to train and they will be performing in the local Christmas parade this week and have exhibition performances scheduled in the upcoming months as well. At least I won't have to chew my finger nails down to the nub for these events! :)

Thanksgiving has now come and gone... and yes... I took the time to reflect. There's so much I have to be thankful. My family and friends have been so amazing these past 5 months - without their love, support and prayers I would have collapsed. Of course, they are always awesome but when disaster strikes and people rally around you - it really makes you take notice! And... While shopping today... I met up with an old friend - it was so nice to catch up, hear about her latest adventures and her family. But while we talked, I also came to realize just how much of a difference she and her church made through the power of prayer. Evidently, seeing me further strengthed her belief too. Of course, I strongly believe that with God on my side, I can manage through anything - including cancer! He and all the wonderful people in my life - make me see how truly blessed I am every day. Thank you to one and all!!!

Finally... my last trip to see my Oncologist allowed me to take this beautiful picture in the hills of Tennessee...

Ribbons of Hope

2008-11-09T22:23:00.002-05:00

I love this picture. It says it all... cancer... awareness... ribbons of hope woven together... unity.

Gotta Love Treasuries!

2008-11-01T21:00:00.005-04:00

Are you a treasury addict? I am. And I won't make any excuses...

Treasuries are a great creative outlet. They're lots of fun to create. They are maddening because you can only choose 12 items! And they're a great way to feature Etsy sellers who are friends and talented artisans in their own right.

Every so often, I'm honored to be featured in a treasury and today is one of those days! My "Hug thread" friend LindaButterfly added me to her fabulous "ORANGE" treasury - not once but twice!!! So cool!! Linda's treasury is colorful, festive and full of Fall fun.

Have a look in Linda's Etsy shop - she carries so many beautiful cards, ACEO's and photographs! I have lots of favorites, but here's an example of one of her photos!!

Thanks again Linda!

I Won I Won!!!

2008-10-31T23:07:00.005-04:00

I recently entered a Halloween blog contest from Chloe Boutique and my dear friend Amanda. All she wanted us to do was post our favorite Halloween candies and of course Reese's Peanut Butter cups made my list! That was fun just thinking about those yummy delights, none of which I have had this Halloween by the way... After I made it home tonight I had a message from Amanda and discovered... I won her giveaway!!! Awesome! I never win things like this so I'm grinning from ear to ear! Now what to choose.... hmmmm... so many wonderful choices... I will think about this very carefully!! Want to help me decide - PLEASE? Post a comment below - I really need some help with this one! So... Have a peek in Amanda's Etsy shop, Chloe Boutique!

Thank you Amanda, you've made my day!!! :D

Need A Little Pick Me Up??

2008-10-27T20:15:00.002-04:00

Need a little pick me up? Well this treasury should do just about do it! Look at all the bright, vibrant and gorgeous items!!! This list was created by my friend Sarah of GenuineArticle and her treasuries are always beautiful so have a look at this one before it expires Tuesday, 10/28.

I also want to thank Sarah for including me with all these talented Etsy artists - I'm honored to be included! Check out Sarah's Etsy shop too - she's such an amazing jewelry artist too!!!

In One, Made One

2008-10-25T16:55:00.004-04:00

Yeppp, it's treasury time. :D Lately, I never seem to be near the computer when the blue box appears so imagine my delight when my timing was perfect this afternoon! I managed to secure a "yummy" treasury entitled "I HAD A CHOCOLATE CRAVING." I didn't have any chocolate around, but these pieces are really delicious to the eye!!

Another stroke of good luck came last night when I found out I was featured in a treasury as well. Jennifer of MerkabaJewelry curated a treasury entitled "BEAUTY" and her selections are beautiful indeed!! Have a look at her treasury (but hurry, it ends tonight!) and her shop! Thank you Jennifer. :) Treasuries - is there a support group for this addiction? ha!

OMG, I've been TAGGED! What fun!!! :D

2008-10-17T21:09:00.002-04:00

My dear friend Sue tagged me and when I read her email I wasn't sure what to think or what I was supposed to do! So after looking at her blog, SignatureSterling, I realized how much fun this would be. Since I haven't been to blogland in over a month, I decided now was as good a time as any!! So here goes... The rules...

1. Link to your tagger and list these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by including links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blogs.

Now... 7 things about me...

1. While it doesn't define me, I am surviving cancer. I appreciated life before cancer knocked on my door, but now - it's precious - even when a cat dances on my head in the middle of the night. Things are almost "back to normal" in my household and I couldn't be more excited!! In fact, my doctor said he didn't want to see me for 6 months! Woo hoo!!

2. I have awesome friends and family. Yeah, I know that's not really about me but actually it is. I wouldn't be who I am without their friendship, support and guidance all these years. Hopefully I reflect all that is good in them.

3. I grew up in Sarasota Florida - we lived around lots of circus people. This might explain why I teach high school...

4. I saw my first in-person autopsy when I was a senior in high school. Perhaps this explains a few things and that's why I'm enjoying the heck out of teaching Forensic Science now! BTW, CSI IS NOT REAL!!!!!!!!!

5. My daughter is a gymnast and at her last birthday party, I thought since the apple didn't fall far from the tree and I KNEW how to do cartwheels... I tried one... Ooops, I forgot it had been 30 years since the last one and well... I nearly broke my arm (thank goodness that doesn't happen when she does them!). We almost had to call the ambulance since my friend Kollette (who was the only person who actually saw the attempted cartwheel) nearly passed out she was laughing so hard. I learned 1 lesson... cartwheels aren't for those of us over 40. Be forewarned.

6. I couldn't think of a 6th thing so I asked my husband... he said I have "beautiful" skin. OK, so... I perhaps I have beautiful skin?? And along these same lines, one of my students told me yesterday I didn't "look my age." When I gave her a funny look she said I had an "ageless" face. Hmmm, totally contradictory to the other kid who told me I was old. So... I guess I have beautifully old skin... Damn, teenagers sure keep a person humble...

7. I had my first "professional" deep muscle massage today. I felt like a pretzel knot when I went in but no more - shazammm, what an experience!

So there's my 7. All random, most pretty weird. What the heck, you only live once.

Here's my tagged blog friends... I hope they play along too!!! Go check 'em out - this should be fun!!!!!

(1) Amanda: http://www.chloeboutique.blogspot.com/
(2) Donna: http://ctbydonna.blogspot.com/
(3) Sarah Jane: http://the-genuine-article.blogspot.com/
(4) Charlotte: http://owllovetostamp.blogspot.com/
(5) Julie-Ann: http://juliesjewels.wordpress.com/
(6) Chris: http://www.craftsbychrisonline.com/blog/
(7) Linda: http://linda-considerations.blogspot.com/

It's About TIME...

2008-09-12T12:14:00.005-04:00

The past weeks have been hectic at best. But as this week winds down and I look back, I realize how blessed I am. My cancer surgery last week is nothing but a memory! The final pathology reports are in and while my doctor did remove more cancer, he feels he got it all and that's great news. We'll just monitor things and if it returns, we'll deal with it. But I feel good - even with the slurred speech. So... Mr. Policeman, please don't pull me over, I promise I am NOT drunk!!

I am trying to get back to "normal" things and of course Etsy's treasuries are part of that plan! Here's the treasury scoop...

First, I'm featured in Amanda's "Tickle Me Pink Please!" treasury. She's such a sweetie and wonderful Etsy friend!! Please visit her shop, Wildlifer78 - it rocks!!!

While Amanda was creating her "Pink" treasury, I was curating one of my own "Come On... Don't FALL For This" and you might be able to guess... it's about...

FALL!! I love this season and all that it brings - beautiful colors, Thanksgiving, relief from summer heat and of course, football!!!!

Check out both treasuries while you can and join in on the Etsy fun!!! :D

Feeling LUCKY and being THANKFUL...

2008-08-16T23:56:00.004-04:00

There are days when I don't feel very lucky, afterall sometimes things just don't work out like you had hoped. There are days when the windshield wipers break while it's raining, a gallon of milk spills all over the floor or you have a load of laundry in the washer but there's no detergent. Yep, life happens and sometimes it just kinda stinks.

But I suppose if wallowing in one's own self-pity isn't an option then looking at what's right and being thankful to be lucky is the best option of all. So... here's why I feel LUCKY and am very THANKFUL...

THANKFUL to have the sweetest and most loving daughter in the world...
THANKFUL my Mom never gave up on me...
THANKFUL to have a husband who is supportive and caring during one of the most difficult times in my life...
LUCKY to have found friends who accept me and all my warts...
THANKFUL to have grown up with the right lessons in my life...
THANKFUL that the Lord forgives...
LUCKY to have 5 black cats who all have awesome purr boxes...
THANKFUL for my job that most days isn't "just a job"...
LUCKY to have students who care - about important things - not just what they are going to do on a Saturday night...
THANKFUL for having family who are always around, love me and are just a click away...
THANKFUL for my health - it really could be worse...
THANKFUL and LUCKY TO HAVE YET ANOTHER DAY...
LUCKY to have been born in the United States of America...
THANKFUL to know the difference between right and wrong...
THANKFUL to have the chance to express myself without fear...
LUCKY and THANKFUL to live to see another day...

When life gives you lemons - you can THANKFULLY make lemonade and be thrilled for a little LUCK as well! :D

Buckeye Treasury for a Bulldawg???

2008-08-01T21:12:00.004-04:00

Yep... it's hard to believe that a loyal and true Georgia Bulldog is in a Ohio State Buckeye treasury! A pair of my earrings made it into SignatureSterling's "Scarlet and Gray - All The Way" treasury! You see Sue (SignatureSterling) and I have an agreement... she cheers for my Georgia Bulldawgs and I cheer for OSU - as long as they aren't playing each other!! LOL! I think that's a pretty good arrangement, don't you? We are in different conferences afterall...

And while I hope both our teams do well this year, I hope we never have to meet up against one another! And even though I'm a Bulldawg, THANKS to Sue for thinking I fit right in with all those Buckeyes!! :)

Sue's treasury expires Saturday evening - so have a look before it's too late! And while you're at it, stop in and visit her shop too. She has all sorts of beautiful items including Ohio State baubles!

Share the Blog Love!

2008-07-30T23:30:00.005-04:00

Etsy is a really neat selling venue... I enjoy the diversity of products and many talented artists. Every now and then you run across folks who are fun, talented and just all-around nice - that would be the case with Amanda, AKA Wildlifer78!

Amanda and I both belong to an Etsy group, the "BeadHive" and found we have many things in common. Not only do we share the love of jewelry design and beads (massive amounts of beads too!) but we share a deep commitment to our college teams - she's a LSU girl and it's UGA for me! Though our teams are rivals a few times a year, it's still fun to cheer for the other!! How do you like her Georgia Bulldog set she made for me!!! :)

I also want to mention that Amanda chose to have me in her artist feature this week!!! Wow!!! I am honored!!!! Her glowing blog piece was so kind and sweet - THANK YOU AMANDA!!! Let me pinch myself to make sure I'm not dreaming. :)

So if you have the chance... check out Amanda's blog and most importantly go visit her shop on Etsy - you'll be glad you did, her work is amazing!!!

The Last Lecture - Professor Randy Pausch

2008-07-29T22:14:00.004-04:00

With great sadness and surprise, I learned tonight that Professor Randy Pausch passed away from pancreatic cancer on Friday July 25. I didn't know him personally, but was unbelievably touched by a series of reports on ABC News about him and his views on living and life.

I really don't remember the date I saw the original story on his "Last Lecture." I should have been grading papers but was incredibly drawn to him and what he had to say. So I put down my red pen and just stared at the TV, hanging on every word. I was blown away.

His lecture was filled with stories, memories, lessons and metaphor. While the lecture was intended for his children, people across the world found inspiration. There are 2 things Professor Pausch said that have stuck with me all these many months...

"We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand" - as I come to terms with my own very recent diagnosis with cancer, only now do I fully understand what he meant. I will not ask 'why me?' and shake my fist in anger - why allow those negatives to dictate a life that can and should be rich with love, laughter and yes, even lessons. We do indeed have a choice in how we play our hand...

"The brickwalls are there for a reason: they let us prove how badly we want things." The "brickwalls" quote was so powerful, I immediately made a sign and posted it in my classroom so I would remember... Many of my students read it and gently nodded as they realized what it really meant. I will keep that quote on my wall as a reminder, not only for it's true intent but that it came from a man who had a very special message for the millions of us who were willing to listen.

God speed Professor Randy Pausch - your lessons will live on and in your memory.

Treasury of Trees

2008-07-28T20:17:00.004-04:00

I love trees... in spring and summer they are welcoming and inviting and in winter they remind us of what wonders lie ahead once their dormancy is over... This treasury by SmokeyLady54 celebrates TREES of all sorts! Let's celebrate them!!!

Thank you SmokeyLady54 - your treasury is awesome and inspiring and I appreciate you including my tree in this beautiful list!!

Have a look at all of our trees... this list expires Wednesday night!

Inspirational Treasury

2008-07-24T22:54:00.004-04:00

The blue box popped up again this morning and this time I was ready with an inspirational theme. Entitled "WORDS to LIVE by" I think it is a gentle reminder of what's really important in our lives...

Check out my treasury... it's active until early Sunday morning! Enjoy!! :)

BeadNest Designs and "The Giveaway"

2008-07-22T21:33:00.007-04:00

Blog giveaways can be so much fun! And I am thrilled to be the "21st Etsy Giveaway" on the blog site "The Giveaway" authored by Katie at BabyLyons Designs (Katie's shop is fantastic - so go have a look!!).

Because my life has drastically changed in the past week, one of the prizes really has some philosophical significance and the other... well, I hope it just makes you smile! For the 1st winner, they will receive my hammered, textured & antiqued copper pendant "Carpe Diem" necklace; the 2nd winner will receive a $10 gift certificate to be used in my Etsy shop.

Please read all the "Rules To Enter" and join in on the fun! And... "Carpe Diem!"

New Stuff, New Treasury, More Fun!

2008-07-20T21:44:00.008-04:00

Long overdue post... I have 3 new items listed this week, the first are some great hoops "Bermuda Vacation" - they're big and bold and beautiful blue!

The other 2 pieces have a vintage flair to them. The first is "Vintage Rose" and it is made with glass flowers, sterling silver, Swarovski crystal and unique sterling silver hand-formed earwires.

The 2nd piece entitled "Sweet Antique" is made with Swarovski Pearls and antiqued brass accents. So romantic and feminine, I love 'em!

My "Stand By Me" treasury expires Monday afternoon so have a look before it's too late. It's a great theme for all of us who make a living standing up! Enjoy

See SPOT!

2008-07-13T14:53:00.010-04:00

I've been feeling a little "under the weather" this week so when the Etsy treasury box appeared earlier this afternoon, I knew I had to create a treasury that would make me smile! So the "See SPOT, See SPOT have Fun" list was born! Lots of bright color and fun dots and spots - who could go wrong with that?! This list runs through Tuesday night so have a look at these fun items too!

I would also like to thank Jessi of JessiJewels - she featured me in one of her treasuries earlier this week too but I never managed to make it here to post a link. She has a great shop so have a look at her beautiful items!

Another milestone... I reached 400 hearts this week! Now that really makes me smile and I'm thankful to all those Etsians who took the time to look at my shop and heart me!! :D

Treasuries Rock!

2008-07-05T13:28:00.003-04:00

Another surprise - my "Dewberry" earrings have been included in a fantastic treasury entitled "Pink Panties." I must admit the title got my attention and I had no idea what to expect... I knew I didn't have any panties in my shop... But once I saw the treasury - well it was all about PINK and I also learned that there's a drink called "Pink Panties!" That just goes to show, you can learn something every day. :) Many many THANKS to PromosInASnap who curated a treasury filled with beautiful pink items. Check out the treasury and Promos shop - she really has some great promotional items for small businesses!

By the way... Treasuries rock!!! :D

Treasury Madness!

2008-07-03T22:14:00.012-04:00

As we begin the holiday weekend... let's not forget the reason for the holiday! Freedom isn't free... So with that in mind let me wish everyone a HAPPY 4th OF JULY! Celebrate and enjoy!

Now... It's no secret... I love treasuries. It's just too much fun curating them and the search for perfect elements is like an old fashioned savenger hunt! My next treasury is ready to go... now if that infamous "blue box" would pop up for me - all would be right in treasuryland!

As I cruised through the newest list of 600+ treasuries tonight, I was pleasantly surprised - one of my pieces was featured in a list by LaurasJewellery!! Thank you for including me in your gorgeous treasury! Hurry hurry and have a look, her "Black Black Black - Flowery Earrings" list expires Saturday evening.

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=54358

University of Georgia's Beloved Mascot, Uga VI, Passes Away

2008-06-28T22:15:00.007-04:00

UGga VI, a white English bulldog and mascot for the University of Georgia Bulldogs, passed away Friday, June 27 of congestive heart failure. He would have been 10 years old next month.

Uga (pronounced Uh-gah) was beloved by the Bulldog Nation and our hearts go out to the Seiler family in their loss. Uga was the most recognized college mascot - famous for sitting on bags of ice, starring in the movie "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" as well as his very own movie "Damn Good Dog;" he also helped UGA win 2 SEC football championships - he was truly a damn good dog!

Uga will be buried with the other Uga's at Sanford Stadium in Athens, Georgia on Monday 6/30.

THE COLLEGE WORLD SERIES... SOMETIMES Things Don't Work Out Like You Want...

2008-06-26T22:55:00.016-04:00

Gordon Beckham, Shortstop

Yep... sometimes we don't get the result we want - if I could go back a day and change the outcome, UGA would be the NCAA Baseball champs. But things work out for a reason, even though we don't know what that reason is... Hats off to Fresno State, they played tough and came out on top. But we still THANK the Georgia Bulldawgs for an incredibly exciting season...

Ryan Peisel, 3rd Baseman

My daughter and I couldn't pass up the chance to welcome the Diamond Dawgs back to Athens today - and I'm so glad we did. While some of the guys looked disappointed as they walked towards the terminal, I am still so impressed with these players! A long line of little kids were waiting for autographs and pictures; and so graciously, those young men signed and posed for each and every one!! Despite their disappointment, they smiled and thanked US for being there for them. What a wonderful group of young men - I wish them great success in whatever comes next for them and will enjoy watching some of them again at Foley Field!

Joshua Fields, Pitcher

We're so proud of the University of Georgia Diamond Dawgs!!! Thank you for such a fun and exciting season!!! :)

Bryce Massanari, Catcher

Here's a recap and some photos previously posted...

Georgia beats NC State 17-8 in the Super-Regional to advance to the CWS!

The win wouldn't be possible without the fan support from Kudzu Hill and Gordo's green house - these guys were just hilarious!! Playing the "Jeopardy" theme song during NC State's meetings at the mounds... priceless!

Georgia beats and outscores (26-6 in 2 games) in-State rival Georgia Tech in Regional play to advance to the Super-Regional... How sweet a victory!

Yes, Georgia played spectacularly... but the Nerds certainly helped us out! Oh Mr. Catcher, you don't have the ball. Doh! Check that pocket protector, perhaps the ball is there? Oh no, wait that's a calculator!

Whether we were playing Lipscombe, Tech, Louisville or NC State - the University of Georgia Diamond Dawgs made us all proud. Great baseball, awesome plays, scorching summer heat, Megaphone man in left field and the guys on Kudzu Hill made those June days at Foley Field memories my daughter and I won't soon forget! Goooooo Dawgs!

The Front Page... Again!

2008-06-22T22:43:00.005-04:00

Oh my my... I can't believe my latest "Out On A Limb" treasury made Etsy's front page! This is the second treasury I've curated that found its way there however... both times it hit while I was sleeping! I believe I will have to forego sleep from now on - this is enough justification don't you think! :D

I would like to thank Sarah Jane of the Genuine Article (she was featured in the treasury) for getting a screen shot and sending it on to me. Otherwise, I could only imagine how the treasury really looked out front!

Treasuries are entirely too much fun to construct... I already have ideas for 2 more so I'll be stalking the treasuries soon... very soon... bwahahahahahahaha!

UGA MAKES IT TO THE CWS FINALS and Jewelry Talk Too!

2008-06-21T14:56:00.012-04:00

How exciting! Our boys are in Omaha and BEAT Stanford 10-8!! Gooooo Dawgs!! WE MADE IT TO THE FINALS!!!!!! Yeah! There's nothing better than college baseball! :D

While I'm watching this exciting game... I'll mention a new item recently listed on Etsy. These earrings are called "Icing On The Cake" - I thought they would make really unique and pretty wedding earrings. Made using large Swarovski creamy pearls and lucite star aster flowers and a little bit of silver for shine. These are really pretty and feminine!

IT'S GREAT TO BE...

2008-06-08T22:22:00.005-04:00

A GEORGIA BULLDOG! We are 1 of 8 teams who've made it to the College World Series! After facing elimination in the loser's bracket of the regional tournament, this team fought back and are now on our way to Omaha!! Goooooo Dawgs! Sic 'em!! Looks like we have a little hurricane to tame! Having sat through 7 baseball games in the past week at Foley Field - in the worst heat too (today was 101 degrees!) I must admit, I'm not getting much jewelry made these days. With what little energy I've had left... I managed to complete 3 custom items but that's it. Maybe I need to create a baseball piece... Hmmmm...

Until then, here's my "Sunflower Symphony" necklace. At least it has a summer theme and baseball players are known as the 'boys of summer.' LOL!

The RIO GRANDE!

2008-05-31T22:59:00.005-04:00

Today has been an eventful day! The NCAA Men's Baseball tournament is in full swing here and while my team (Georgia Bulldogs) lost yesterday we won today and live to see another day of play. We are in the "loser's bracket" - yuk - but hopefully we'll pull it out tomorrow. We have to win 2 games so make it into the Monday night game! Goooo DAWGS!

I have a new item up for sale entitled "Rio Grande" - if you like things BIG then this necklace is for you! It has a presence and will certainly spark some conversation!

Check out "BeadNest Designs" on Etsy! :)

New Listing of Enchanted Purple

2008-05-25T22:00:00.005-04:00

It seems like it's been forever since I listed something new. Things have been so hectic with my daughter's birthday and the ending of the school year, I just haven't had the chance to create. But with all of that behind me, I'm back in the studio and ready to go! Yeah!! The first new item would have to be made with my most favorite color - purple!! I love the sparkle of these faceted cubic zirconia beads and the shine of the silver.

They are dainty and feminine with a new look for the earwires! Check them out!! :)

ETSY Front Page!

2008-05-14T19:43:00.007-04:00

One of the things I really love about ETSY are their treasuries!! They're lots of fun to create and I'm always inspired by all the amazing artists and their beautiful creations!

A bonus of creating treasuries is to be chosen for Etsy's front page and... well... my treasury was on their front page last night!! Yeah!!! I was so excited and now I'm ready to create another treasury... as soon as that blue box pops up again! :)

Here's the full page view but... not very clear so the other shot includes and up close and personal look at some of the BOLD and BEAUTIFUL pieces of my treasury. BTW, that was the title! :D

HANDMADE at Nourish!

2008-04-30T18:51:00.007-04:00

I love this photo! Hip, trendy and really cool - the storefront window of a unique new boutique in Athens called "NOURISH." It features handmade items from artists all over the country - jewelry, purses, clothing, pottery, paintings and more!

If you are in the Athens area, join us this Friday, 4-8pm for "First Friday." Two artists will be featured and have new items available. Stop by, say hi and see all the beautiful items made by so many talented artists!!

BACK to BACK to BACK to BACK!

2008-04-25T23:38:00.007-04:00

GEORGIA WINS THEIR 4TH CONSECUTIVE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!! Way to go everyone!!! Goooooo Dawgs!! Sic 'em!!

GYMDOGS are on TOP again!!

2008-04-25T23:24:00.006-04:00

The Georgia Gymnastics team has done it!!! We won our 4th back to back to back to back National title! What an exciting and nail-biting night with a final Georgia score of 197.450 edgeing out Utah who had a 197.125. Georgia and Utah have both won a total of 9 National Championships each - this should make things very interesting next year and beyond.

I must admit, I sat on the edge of my seat most of the night - waiting and wondering who would make the fewest mistakes and who would rise to the occasion. Hats of to all the gymnasts but especially to our GymDogs who know how to win with style and grace. It's great to be a Georgia Bulldog! Now that we've secured our new title, I can actually get back to beading! LOL!!

Gymnastics Fever - Georgia Moves On To The SUPER 6!!

2008-04-24T23:08:00.002-04:00

After 2 exciting sessions at Stegman Colliseum today, the Women's Gymnastics Super Six is finalized! Advancing from Session 1 are: LSU (196.575), Alabama (196.650) and Florida (196.90). Advancing from Session 2 are: Stanford (196.90), Utah (196.950) and Georgia (197.625). Competition begins at 6:00 pm and should prove to be exciting!!!

Hmmm... look at those teams - 4 are from the SEC!! SEC Gymnastics is obviously some of the toughest in the country.

Pictures from tonight's competition will be up tomorrow. :)

Goooo DAWGS!! Sic 'em!!!!

Gymnastics Fever Hits Athens!

2008-04-21T20:48:00.006-04:00

It's finally here! The NCAA's in Gymnastics are this week! Competition begins Thursday but there's an open practice for the GymDogs Wednesday afternoon - we'll be there! My daughter is an official runner at Thursday night's competition and she was so excited (ahhh, well maybe I was excited for her too) to receive her official NCAA floor access pass last weekend. She'll be able to see the entire team competition while sitting at one of the events - she'll then run scores between judges tables after each girl completes that event. So she will be "up close and personal" with the competing gymnasts. That's the good news. The bad news is when Georgia does something super spectacular, she won't be able to cheer but we'll be screaming enough for her!!!

Now... who is competing in the NCAA finals you ask??? Session 1 (at 1:00 pm) includes: Florida, Alabama, LSU, Oregon State, Oklahoma, Arkansas. Session 2 (at 7:00 pm) includes: Georgia, Utah, Stanford, Michigan, Denver and UCLA. Georgia has the #1 seed in the tournament and we are the defending champs!

The top 3 teams from each session will compete Friday night in the super 6 and the National Champ will be crowned then. Goooooo Dawgs! Sic 'em!!!!!

There's nothing better than...

2008-04-11T21:03:00.006-04:00

There's no better feeling than to have a bride choose your jewelry! Meet Meredith and her BeadNest earrings...

I'm honored to have brides choose my jewelry to wear on their special day. If you are interested in a custom piece, please contact me and we'll make your dream a reality! (Photos by Jethro Acosta)

MONTH OF THE YEAR SALE!

2008-04-08T20:42:00.007-04:00

Every month I have a "Month of the Year" sale. So... how this sale works... I choose an item and it's listed in my Etsy store for the same amount as that month of the year. Since this is April - the 4th month - this month's item is just $4.00! Now you may be thinking... how long will I keep the item listed at it's sale price? Well... this is part of the fun - it's a secret, a gamble, take a chance - you just never know when it will return to its normal retain price!

This month, the sale item is a pair of deep green hand-painted ceramic beads with a southwestern flair and accented with Bali silver and Swarovski crystal - all wrapped with sterling silver wire and dangling from sterling silver earwires.

Check out this fun sale!! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10821903 :D

WOW... I am SO excited!!

2008-04-02T20:46:00.003-04:00

I thought Sunday would turn out to be just another day. Boy, was I wrong!!

Within a couple of days I met the neatest lady who was nurturing a spectacular idea - an artisan boutique. I'm so excited to officially announce that my jewelry has become part of "NOURISH." My pieces will be included with so many other amazing artists who specialize in a variety of media. It's an honor to share the space with them.

Check out the "Nourish" blog and if you're in the Athens area please stop by and check us out! The grand opening is tomorrow night so it should be a fantastic day!! :)

The Blog Begins...

2008-03-30T22:07:00.003-04:00

Well... I've finally done it! I've organized my blog and am ready to go! Yikes!!

I originally decided to devote this space to my jewelry but there are too many other things to discuss beginning with this post.

We love gymnastics in my house. It's exciting, competitive and just plain hard to do! Since my daughter competes we really enjoy watching the Gym Dogs from the University of Georgia. Their skills are the best in the land - really! They're the reining National Champs!! Last night we had the opportunity to watch them compete against 6 other teams from the Southeastern Conference and our Gym Dogs won!! Gooooo Dawgs, Sic 'em!! Their team score was 197.350 and the 2nd place teams scored 197.325 (Universities of Florida & Alabama tied for second). Talk about winning by the skin of their teeth! WOW!! It was the most exciting meet we've ever watched, lots of nail biting moments including the 30 minute wait to find out who won.

We wish UGA the best and lots of great practices in the next few weeks as they work towards winning their 4th consecutive National Championship in April!