JUSTSO - terryann !

Project Red Dress

2012-01-25T20:28:00.000-08:00

This is on You Tube, I am in this video..... Whew!!!

click above

Snow on the Porch!

2012-01-20T09:54:00.000-08:00

Ok just for fun I am posting a few photos that my mom took yesterday... We had a bit of snow in the Northwest!

Red Dress Project

2012-01-16T11:30:00.000-08:00

I am designing and making a dress for the Red Dress project. There are 12 of us, chosen to design and make a dress for the event and within the charity event will be a competition. Here is a link for more info....

http://www.projectreddress.com/2012_Designers.php

and here is a video about it....

https://webmail.spu.edu/owa/redir.aspx?C=51c1d1a2e08545ea972ca328630ca8cc&URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.youtube.com%2fwatch%3fv%3dTfUZKvx1qn0%26feature%3dyoutu.be

I will be in the next video,
and more over all info....

http://www.projectreddress.com/

If you want to attend the event follow the tickets link...
Thank you all for your support.

A couple of old photos of me, my sister and our Japanese Cat.

2011-12-27T15:48:00.000-08:00

Trying to learn the piano when you are tone deaf is futile! I tried.

My favorite tree on the lake in the snow...

Sister and the cat named Clyde, he had only a nub for a tail and talked all the time.

I am an Angel

2011-11-09T08:26:00.000-08:00

For Haloween ~ !

My friend here was a "groupie"

my iphone has a new app.

2011-10-28T19:34:00.000-07:00

OK, I downloaded a Pantone color pick app... about 6 months ago, used it a few times it is so great! I used the camera to take a photo of some beautiful Ginkgo leaves on a tree. Here is what showed up on the app... now I just snapped a photo of the screen and just like that I have a photo of the colors in Pantone I can send, use, blog about and use to match with other Pantone colors... the applications are endless! I am awed! ~~ >> just had to share my amazement! SMILE!

Don't disturb the Fish!

2011-10-12T18:13:00.000-07:00

Yes, I was traveling this last summer! I had no idea Scottish Salmon were so picky! This just made me smile!

2011-09-22T12:33:00.000-07:00

This was a fantastic summer, I was so busy I didn't get a chance to post much. So, I will be catching up on my post....this is a photo of me and my family when we visited the memorial in Amsterdam. It was a touching, bonding, sad, moment that has helped us all put some of our grief to rest and helped with looking forward to our bright future.

So we went fishing!

2011-07-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

I love to go fishing... after this photo was taken we caught three more. It was a beauiful day! Fun on the water for the whole gang!

Here is a beauty, I cooked this one for lunch the next day!

My daughter caught this one and I almost couldn't wait to eat it. Sushi is good too!

Alligator Bites !

2011-06-22T07:07:00.000-07:00

So yes there is a place in Texas (Pappadeaux Seafood) where you can order an appetizer that is fried Alligator, so I will not pass up an opportunity to try something new ... ok most things will have to have a low yech factor, but I tried this and it was wonderful. Not chewy, tasted like chicken crossed with a tuna. yummy I will have it again.

Love One Another !

2011-05-31T07:30:00.000-07:00

This is actually a photo of me and my sister, in 1973!

I Love this commandment and work to follow this one like no other!

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.
John 13:34
Jesus makes many statements in the Gospel of John, but this is the only commandment that he identifies as such, calling it "new." Perhaps if he emphasized it so specifically, we should cling to it with every ounce of our effort.

Fashion, Merchandising Expo

2011-05-20T14:01:00.000-07:00

This spring one of my designs will be in the SPU Fashion and Merchandising Expo... here is the flyer with the info...
Come if you can.... I would love to show off my designs!

Trying new things in Photoshop

2011-05-01T21:00:00.000-07:00

Just trying out a few new things with my photoshop... HI! This is fun.

Yessssssssssss...sssssssss.......ssss.s.s..s..s..ss.s..s..

2011-04-12T22:47:00.000-07:00

They did it!

Submit and Score

2011-04-05T23:09:00.000-07:00

Ok Now I am doing this little thing on Threadless... a t-shirt company, online. I submit a t-shirt slogan idea daily and then if it gets published, well ~~>> FAME AND FORTUNE!! ,well maybe just Fame.... Here is the one I submitted lately...CLICK HERE, and go see and vote!

in line at Big Thunder Mountian... with my gang

2011-03-29T08:12:00.000-07:00

This photo was taken while we were waiting for Big Thunder Mountain....I just have to share the fun craziness of this moment.

Yes this is my mom !

2011-03-03T21:55:00.000-08:00

Last month Costco connections magazine, she was so surprised! Nice.

What is she/he saying?

2011-02-23T15:50:00.000-08:00

Photo Shoot ! My bags...

2011-02-07T19:08:00.001-08:00

These photos taken with models from the SPU fashion group and a professional photographer named Marissa.... and MY BAGS! Cool - ish - ness !!!

Just Sharing !!!

Click on the photos to go to Marissas site... Wow Factor 10

Venice is where you can see magic!

2011-02-06T17:55:00.000-08:00

SPACE HOPPERS in VENICE from bayougirl on Vimeo.

Hop Bunny Hop !!!

2011-02-05T11:09:00.000-08:00

Year of the Rabbit from Frater on Vimeo.

Mad Men Yourself ~ I did.

2011-01-10T15:47:00.001-08:00

I went to Mad Men Yourself and picked out a series of accessories... and ta... da... this was created... see what you come up with.....

It looks like I am having a pretty good time....

Cheers!

Kitty Kisses

2011-01-08T22:50:00.000-08:00

Ok I just had to share this one. My two kittys just make me happy. I have to share.

HOME ~ ♪♫♫♪

2010-12-19T12:56:00.000-08:00

I was on a short trip lately and ............... As we flew near to home... I looked out the window and there it was.... The Mountain. Mt. Rainer in all its glory, and I took this with my cell phone...

and this one too.

As we landed we flew below those lovely clouds into the warm rainy gray day that is Seattle. I love where I live. Thank you God.

OUCH! Sumiko!

2010-11-07T15:59:00.000-08:00

My darling little kitty cat Sumiko, cut her back leg on some sharp metal. The vet had to put her out to clean it up and sew it back together. This is right after I brought her back home, she had to wear a collar to keep her from licking it. She is all better now and the stitches are out... but I just thought I would share this funny little photo of her in her collar, my other kitty is tentatively sniffing her out, in the background.

Boxing Cats... one in a Box

2010-10-25T21:05:00.000-07:00

Ok... one day at my "moms dormroom" I caught my cats being cute.... here it is on Youtube...

Another reason I love where I live.

2010-10-18T21:32:00.001-07:00

So this is not an unusual thing to see in my front yard.... it needs nearly no explanation.

Whatever ~ I love where I live.

2010-09-25T13:45:00.000-07:00

I have heard and experienced myself the great many gray days here in the northwest! Some people come to visit and never see the beautiful mountains.... if they make an appearance...it is just a fleeting glance through the clouds. When I first moved here the trees, our neighborhood, and the rainy days kept me from seeing the mountain's for about the first 6 months. One day I turned the corner near our home and the sun had just popped out from behind the ever hovering clouds... Ta... DA ♪♫♫♪♪♪ ~ !!! I was then determined, from then till now, when I see those beautiful clouds lift, and I see the lofty heights of strength and beauty, covered in snow even in the summer, I will be glad. I will be filled with that view and really soak it into me. Thank you God! Then when my eyes fill up with the sight, it brings a kind of inspiring joy.

The hat showed up! I found it! Whew !!!

2010-09-02T15:50:00.001-07:00

Yes it showed up! I am not sure if it was always on the back of my bedroom door, under another hat, or if "someone" put it there secrectly returning it to it's place??? I don't care I am just happy to have the hat return!

I lost my hat!

2010-08-27T12:29:00.000-07:00

Yes, this is the hat I lost... now, how could I have misplaced it? I love this hat, it was perfect for a snowy afternoon at tea. After a long flight, I had the worst case of bed head, "airplane hair" and our rooms were not ready. So we had tea in the bar and I kept my hat on! I do wish I could remember where I left it.... if anyone has seen my hat and can return it ~~~ >> NO QUESTIONS WILL BE ASKED ... its just that I miss it and wonder where it went. It is an anthropology hat and was quite dear, so there may be a treat in for you if you find it. Thanks for listening!
sincerely

this is the morning & here is the JOY!

2010-08-23T09:53:00.000-07:00

Today in my daily verse!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime.Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.
Psalm 30:5
God doesn't hold grudges. His personality is not like ours; His ways are not like ours. Be free from your self-condemning chains. Be joyful this morning. Experience the grace and freedom that abound through Christ living in your heart!

Some thoughts I have had and have to keep re~learning.

2010-08-17T19:43:00.000-07:00

Trials have no value or intrinsic meaning in the themselves... It is the way we respond to those trials that makes all the difference. J.E. Tada

My thoughts exactly..... as humans we tend to want to look only at our own hurts and either soak in the pain or lash out at others.

Both the the lamb (who soaks in pain) and the lion (who lashes out) feels the thorn prick each responds in an inappropriate way... for humans.

God wants us to "give him" the thorn and the pain and learn compassion for the experience or patience. Sometime the lesson is specific for us alone. We can either get bitter or better. Those around us will either suffer from our inappropriate responses or reap the added benefits from our learning our lesson. What a "better way" to learn how to, take care of another with pain, than have experienced it yourself.

Peace!

Here is the newest "Cover"

2010-07-22T12:26:00.000-07:00

Cover Girl and Boy !!
There is a wedding in the near future! Soon ! Soon ! We are using this "cover" on the package of welcome to Whidbey, stuff we give out to the "out of towners".

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

...to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.

Isaiah 61:3b

Despite even the most grim of situations, there is always at least a thread of hope. God longs to adore us and shower us with love, hope and joy. If you're seeing ashes when you look at your situation be reminded that He intends to transform them into beauty. If your spirit is faint, even to the point of mourning, expect Him to evoke gladness and praise. He is faithful - hang onto that promise.

Displaced Orphans International

2010-07-10T10:08:00.000-07:00

Displaced Orphans International is a registered
501c(3) non-profit foundation started by a
small group of Christians in Washington State
who are intimately familiar with the critical
problems facing displaced orphans on the
borders of Thailand. DOI was formed to
provide hope to those children who currently
have none.
The board members of DOI are all employed
individuals who have been led by personal
beliefs to assist the forgotten children in this
area of the world. These children are not
recognized by any national organization as
refugees and hence receive little or no aid.
DOI pledges that 100% of all donations will
go directly to the support of the children and
that all overhead expenses such as fundraising
activities, will be borne by the board members
themselves.
Strict accounting practices are followed and
annual audit reports are filed with the IRS as
required. These reports will be disclosed to any
sponsor upon request to DOI. If interested,
DOI can make arrangements for the sponsor to
visit the orphanages in Thailand so you can see
the results of our work first hand.
BROCHURE Click HERE

2010-05-21T09:31:00.000-07:00

We never know where the danger will come from, our idea that we are any sort of control is only an illusion. Each day we live by Grace alone.

~~~~~~~~~~~

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6

God is doing something in you. If the going is tough, keep pressing forward. One way or other, the work He's doing is going to get done, so your cooperation and willingness to play ball will only add to your joy and the end result according to His perfect design. Embrace the journey!

Flood ~ My Soul !

2010-05-06T09:22:00.000-07:00

And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.'
Matthew 25:40

Your service toward those in need is your service unto God Himself. Don't endeavor to preach the Gospel; be the Gospel.

Nashville Flood Relief
If you're interested in helping with the relief efforts for the Nashville Flood, please visit here for more information on how you can be of service.

Smell the Rodeo

2010-04-27T10:33:00.001-07:00

Last Week I was in Texas! and... besides buying cowgirl boots and having my nails done I went to a Rodeo! As we drove into the arena parking the attendants were on horseback. Then I realized we had the best seats right in front right by the "shoots" or "chute". I got this photo with my iPhone! Wow! we were so close we could smell the dust that got stirred up as the rides and bulls left the gate. Now that was Kick~in it country fun!

Trust in the Lord

2010-04-07T10:11:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago this Eagle landed in the trees in my yard....snap!

Today in my Daily verse, this email arrived.......

In God, whose word I praise, in the Lord, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?

~~~~~~>> Psalm 56:10,11 <<~~~~~~

Evaluate where you put your trust and what you allow to evoke fear. Be reminded that God is trustworthy and it is in Him who you should invest your treasure of trust.

Living a victorious life requires each of us to evaluate, inspect, observe, examine and dissect our own life. Prayerfully looking for ways we are defeated, ways we are lost, ways we are cowed into not fully enjoying the blessings God brings our way. I will not be a victim and I will grab all the joy and blessing God gives! I will rise on wings like an eagles! Amen.

Shoes to be married in!

2010-03-12T10:51:00.001-08:00

So...OK............, we saw some beautiful shoes in the most recent "In Style" magazine. My daughter was looking for shoes to wear with her wedding dress this summer.
There is not a chance that we could afford those designer dreams... go look them up on page 394, lace treasures!!! So I had a bit of a creative brainstorm. We went to the bargain shoe store and purchased a plain pair of white strappy pumps for $10!

The end result are these beautiful designer inspired pair, using ..... my old and stained, wedding dress... yep the backs were covered with the cuffs, and the toes took some of the lace from the top. We made some little rosettes from the tulle, and put shell buttons in the middle, those are on the top of the heel area. I am not sure if we are finished with the layers of lace, but I had to take these photos. WOW ! and it was so fun!

Venice with a little photoshop fun.

2010-03-08T10:03:00.001-08:00

A few years ago my husband, my daughter and I went on a trip to Venice Italy. There were so many lovely views that I took hundreds of photos! I took a photoshop class about a year and half ago... this is the combination of one of my photos and my newly discovered photoshop skills... I really like it and though I should share it.

My latest travels.... a photo that defines it.

2010-02-21T14:56:00.001-08:00

This little bicycle stopped me right in my tracks and I had to take the picture! It started snowing again right after I took this, like a soft, cold, single, blessing.

New Year and New things ...Looking forward ♥

2010-01-19T11:45:00.000-08:00

Yep! They are engaged! ♥ ☺ ♥ ☺ ♥

Christmas is made of this ~ Love

2009-12-23T10:26:00.000-08:00

And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:10,11

For His sacrifice, let us be thankful. Let us celebrate the true meaning of Christmas as we endeavor to love as He loved and give as He gave.

A few of my Favorate things help me feel "not so bad"

2009-12-03T19:38:00.000-08:00

Raindrops on roses

and whiskers on kittens,

bright copper kettles

and warm woolen mittens,

brown paper packages tied up with strings,

these are a few of my favorite things.

Cream colored ponies

and crisp apple strudels,

door bells

and sleigh bells

and schnitzel with noodles.

Wild geese that fly with the moon on their wings.

these are a few of my favorite things.

Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes,

snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes,

silver white winters that melt into springs,

these are a few of my favorite things.

When the dog bites,

when the bee stings,

when I'm feeling sad,

I simply remember my favorite things,

and then I don't feel so bad.

click on the photos to go, look and purchase each favorate thing!

Monster Lemon

2009-11-14T12:37:00.001-08:00

13 ounces

5 inches long

Monster Lemon

If you only grow one at a time... it better be good.

☺

This is my Monster Lemon and how it came to be....
My little lemon tree is pot bound and stays indoors for half the year, here in the northwest it would freeze if I left it out on the deck. About a year and half ago, I noticed it had some flowers blooming, it did before and no fruit was the result. Since there are no bees to pollinate it inside, I used a little q-tip and patted each of the flowers. Out it went over the summer..... Here is a close up of the Monster lemon on the tree during last summer, as it grew.

There is another lemon growing right now, and some new flowers... maybe I will get another monster! ♥

My Feet ~ a story that I didn't plan to tell.

2009-10-10T16:31:00.000-07:00

Well I didn't start out to tell a story about my feet, or even decide to take pictures of my feet and put them on my blog... however, one day I was sorting through my many photos and noticed how many, many, many photos I had of just that very thing! My feet... so here are a few photos... I seem to have taken some by accident and others by design... explanations follow each photo.

This one I was trying to photograph the tote for my online Etsy shop and well.... I didn't have a model that day so I just snapped it with my right hand....

Again my model wasn't around and my toe nail polish just happened to match the Ultrasuede! This one will be listed soon.

This was my daughters graduation day and I was beginning to get bored, I had put a top layer of sparkle~ly paint on my dark purple toes. It was so pretty and so I distractedly snapped a photo while someones name I didn't know was being called... really 3 hours to get through all the names and speeches... yawn~! pretty toes however!

Here I am trying again to take a photo of product without a model.... not a bad shot... of my feet! ☺

And at last... my favorite shot of my feet.... so far ~~~~~ ! ♥ ♥ ♥

This one I took while I waited for my daughters to get ready... we were in Disneyland, the ankle bracelet says "PRINCESS" and yes I am! Silver toes, shoes and bracelet! WOW What cute feet....
Not a single stinker! Now wasn't that fun?!

Stockings for the troops ~ Sewathon 4! ~ we sewed 96!

2009-10-07T19:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a fun day! About a dozen ladies from my church, brought our sewing machines, irons, sissors and brains. We sewed almost 100 (96 to be exact) stockings for the Operation Shoebox organization. These photos are from the web site of last years delivery! Here are some we created that will be on their way soon.One of the cutest ones................♥

A pile of them all ready to go! ...

A shy friend helps out....... ☺

WOW We did it again~!!!!!
My good friend ran it this time and decided that she would make sure 100 was sent. What a gal!

http://www.operationshoebox.com/

Mano Con Mano ~ We did a lot of Sewing! 90 + Baby Hats

2009-09-10T11:15:00.000-07:00

We had another Sew~A~Thon ! This time we sewed fleece newborn hats for the Mano Con Mano mission to Guatimala. About 6 of us from the Womens Ministry of the Christian Life Center in Freeland Washington got together on a sunny fall day. At the end of the day we counted over 90! Keep warm and healthy little babies! AMEN!

How do you spell Perseverance?

2009-09-06T12:45:00.000-07:00

This is how it is spelt, not with letters and words or even works, but with every breath we take and every cake we bake (to quote a famous song). He is watching us... breathe in the day and ask for help...It arrives just in time. I recall those Eagles that swooped down, at just the last moment, and rescued Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee (Lord of the Rings), they walked through it all and were kept safe and allowed to see the beauty of the new and the rising of the new sun in glory because they slept, ate and lived the word perseverance.

...but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.Isaiah 40:31 ~ ~ ~

In my opinion, one of the hardest things to do is wait. Be encouraged, though - God's timing is perfect so remember to trust Him and as you wait - take time to envision having renewed strength - running and not being weary - walking without feeling faint. The wait will be worth your while.

Scars of Life

2009-08-18T15:33:00.001-07:00

A friend sent this one to me and I just had to post it here... touching and true.

SCARS OF LIFE Some years ago,
on a hot summer day
in South Florida ,
a little boy decided to go
for a swim in the old swimming hole behind his house.

In a hurry to dive into
the cool water,
he ran out the back door, leaving behind shoes, socks, and shirt as he went.

He flew into the water,
not realizing that as he swam toward the middle of the lake, an alligator was swimming toward the shore. His father, working in the yard, saw the two as they got closer and closer together.

In utter fear,
he ran toward the water,
yelling to his son as loudly
as he could. Hearing his voice,
the little boy became alarmed and made a U-turn
to swim to his father.
It was too late.
Just as he reached his father, the alligator reached him. >From the dock,
the father grabbed his little boy by the arms
just as the alligator
snatched his legs.
That began an incredible
tug-of-war between the two. The alligator was much stronger than the father,
but the father was much
too passionate to let go. A farmer happened to drive by, heard his screams,
raced from his truck,
took aim and shot the alligator.Remarkably, after weeks and weeks in the hospital,
the little boy survived.
His legs were extremely scarred by the vicious attack
of the animal.

And, on his arms,
were deep scratches
where his father's fingernails dug into his flesh in his effort
to hang on to the son he loved. The newspaper reporter
who interviewed the boy
after the trauma,
asked if he would
show him his scars.
The boy lifted his pant legs. And then, with obvious pride, he said to the reporter,
'But look at my arms.
I have great scars
on my arms, too.
I have them because
my Dad wouldn't let go.' You and I can identify
with that little boy.
We have scars, too.
No, not from an alligator,
but the scars of a painful past. Some of those scars
are unsightly and have
caused us deep regret.
But, some wounds,
my friend,
are because God has refused
to let go.
In the midst of your struggle, He's been there
holding on to you. The Scripture teaches that
God loves you.
You are a child of God.
He wants to protect you
and
provide for you in every way. But sometimes we foolishly wade into dangerous situations, not knowing what lies ahead. The swimming hole of life
is filled with peril -
and we forget
that the enemy is waiting
to attack.
That's when the tug-of-war begins - and if you have
the scars of His love
on your arms,
be very, very grateful.
He did not and will not ever let you go. Please pass this on
to those you love.
God has blessed you,
so that you
can be
a blessing to others.
You just never know
where
a person is in his/her life
and
what they are going through. Never judge another
person's scars,
because you don't know
how they got them.
Also,
it is so important that
we are not selfish,
to receive the blessings
of these messages,
without forwarding them
to someone else. Right now,
someone needs to know that God loves them,
and you love them, too -
enough to not let them go .

Always
Tell Your Family
And Friends
How Much
You Love Them!!!

Mr Dizzy Squid ~ Boo Boo Baby Squid ~ Everyday Squid ~ Design your own theme Squid ~ The Pattern

2009-08-13T16:00:00.000-07:00

This Plushie was inspired by my daughters drawings... here is what we created...

You can see the full instructions on Cut out and Keep...just click on the images to link to the page.

Ta Da! hug and enjoy with no fear of ink!

Cut out and Keep ~ my newest post

2009-07-20T11:55:00.001-07:00

Plushie Chibi Bunny ~ Cut out and Keep ~ Crazy Chibi Bunny Kawaii ~ Baby Big Ears Bunny

Bunny the pattern... inspired by my daughters drawings. My daughter does these fun drawings of "chibi" style animals... this one inspired her to make one. I drafted the pattern, and posted it on Cut out and Keep... If you are inspired to make one too, just click on the photos and go right there!

The End.

Just Sharing my Faves...

2009-07-06T10:35:00.001-07:00

Looking toward the Future after Graduation!

2009-06-16T13:23:00.000-07:00

My lovely daughter Graduated this last weekend. She got her AA from the local Community College at the same time as her HS diploma. She worked so hard and was so dedicated to finishing all that was put before her, even though we had a really rough year. Peace!

For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.1 Corinthians 14:33a

If you're looking for God to show you something clearly, don't over-pollute what He's showing you with the thoughts and reasoning of your own mind. God has given you a mind to use, and at the same time, He has given you the Holy Spirit to help, guide and discern what is of Him and what is of the flesh. Use both, but rely most on the unchanging nature of God to ultimately guide you in the way that you should go.

One Lovely Blog!

2009-06-03T14:02:00.000-07:00

Wow, I have received my first BLOG award!

I got the “One Lovely Blog Award” from Crochetthoughts You can see her blog about it here. How lovely is that? Absolutely lovely I think. So I have of course passed the award on to 10 more lovely blogs.

Military Brats of Etsy

Caramel Sauce Fast, Easy and Extra Yummy!

2009-05-31T16:31:00.000-07:00

Fast, Easy and Very Extra Yummy! I don't cook too often and when I do it is usually something extra sugar and sweet. This sauce came about after I was successful in creating the fudge sauce that is so perfect and yummy. Why not try caramel, they actually go together very well, even in the same dish of ice cream.... Anyway here is how to make it.

Assemble and measure out all the ingredients,, so they will be close at hand.

Wire Whisk
Sauce pan
3 large Marshmallows
3 Tablespoons Butter (real)
1/2 Cup Brown Sugar
3 Tablespoons Milk (whole)

Melt the butter with marshmallows over a medium heat, whisk in the sugar, when added it will become a big glob and gritty. Add the milk, whisk till fully combined, you have to whisk pretty vigorously to get the glob totally incorporated. Allow it to simmer just a minute whisking every few seconds. When it bubbles thickly... add a pinch of salt, whisk and whisk... allow it to cook for a few minutes to fully develop the rich caramel flavor.
serves about 3... calories vary with amount consumed! ☺

Operation Shoebox

2009-05-27T16:55:00.000-07:00

http://www.operationshoebox.com/

Yep we did it we collected enough stuff to fill a large flat rate priority box! And off it goes... I hope it helps with comfort and Love from home...

The women of Christian Life Center have been collecting special items of soap, shampoo, toothpaste and other "comfort items", those mini versions that you get from hotels and when you travel. The shoebox people make up comfort kits and forward them on to the field! What a great way to make our guys feel more loved. All the best of good thoughts and prayers and sincere Thanks go with each item.

Take a peek at my newest Chefs Hat!

2009-05-12T13:35:00.000-07:00

I am not a Cook! But I can wip up a cool Chefs Hat....

see it at my Etsy Shop as well as the matching apron.

There is a large selection of Aprons ... new ones added daily!

Etsy Day

2009-04-24T10:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Etsy Day !

Etsy Day ~ Etsy Day ~ Etsy Day ~ Etsy Day ~ TODAY!

Hurrah!
This one has been listed since almost the begining of Etsy, I have sold several like this but this one is going to be mine if it isn't purchased soon!

Endurance ~ Hope ~ Love and Peace

2009-04-22T15:03:00.000-07:00

More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.
Romans 5:3-5 ~~~~~~
Read the passage again and let it soak into the deepest depths of your heart, mind and soul - and be encouraged.

Today I just had to share this one!

2009-04-15T09:42:00.000-07:00

And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?
Matthew 6:27 ~~~
Worrying about something usually doesn't impact the outcome of a situation - but it does affect how worn out you get in dealing with it. Try directing the energy you'd usually spend worrying toward prayer and consultation with God.

Reopening Etsy Shop today.

2009-04-06T09:23:00.000-07:00

Just a quick announcement to let everyone know I am reopening my Etsy Shop today. I need my creative outlet to help me on my road to "New Normal". Thanks for all the prayers! They have held me up as I grow a strong new life.

Waking up to the New Normal

2009-04-01T15:10:00.000-07:00

Each day I wake up to a New Normal I would never had guessed would be mine.

Next week I will be working on reopening my online shops... Etsy, Silkfare ... Dawanda and half.com... It will be slow and most of my day will still consist of working toward the transition of head of household to me.

As I move through my life now, I am being reminded each day that the strength I have is not mine alone, but because God is inside of me giving me this backbone of steel. He is both comforting me in my pain and showing me the path. If not for God I would be lost! Thank you for your continued prayers ~ They work!

Working on things....

2009-03-23T10:35:00.000-07:00

Jesus said to him, Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.
John 20:29 ~~~~~
Often times, seeing is believing, as far as us humans are concerned. Be reminded that even when you don't feel like you're tangibly seeing results of God's faithfulness, He is faithful - He can not deny Himself.
(from http://thedailyverse.com)

Many of you already know that I have experienced a shocking and sad event ... a life changing event and I am slowing returning to life myself.

This is my first attempt to reconnect with my old life...

I will write and explain more as time and energy allows...

Prayers work ~ Continue to Pray!

Thank you.

Etsy Mini ~ How to put one in your Blog ~ Baby Steps.

2009-02-10T16:13:00.001-08:00

Putting an Etsy Mini in your blog… A friend of mine ask me how to... so I did this little tutorial, step by step...

At Etsy…

A - Go to log in and go to “Your Etsy”
B - On the left hand side of the page at the very bottom click “Etsy Mini”

****Three choices appear… here we go…..

1-*Items from my shop… this will capture the items you have chosen as “featured” items those that show at the top of your shop page. *Items from your favorites will chose those you have hearted.
2-*Choose image size… it will depend upon how much space you have in the side bar of your blog… I choose thumbnail so I can get two columns on my sidebar. You can redo this if it doesn’t fit.
3-*Choose Layout …Finally Columns are up and down Rows are side by side… choosing how many of what, again it depends upon how much space you have… I choose 2 columns and 4 rows so I can have a lot of photos.

Once this is set up on your blog if you change the featured items this etsy mini will change too! Fun… Sold items will disappear and new items from your feature list will move up… I switch my featured items about weekly therefore all of my mini’s change too.

C – You will see at the bottom of the page there are two boxes with “code” yep it is CODE and it really isn’t as spooky as it sounds… if you look closely at it you will see that it contains your choices and your etsy shop number, (More on that later). Highlight all of that and COPY it. The first box is for Blogs.

At Your Blog…

A – Go to your blog page and sign in.
B – This should put you at your Dashboard; if it doesn’t, look at the upper right corner of your blog and see the Dashboard link… go there. Sometimes this says customize this link goes there too.
C – At your dashboard you should see your blog name and under that….NEW POST, Edit Post, Settings, Layout, View Blog. Click on Layout.

***** Here is the fun part!!!! Layout Page

On this page you can >>>>> Add and Arrange Elements <<<<> Save, when you save it … the layout page will reappear and your new gadget will be on the top of the column you first chose. To move it around, you can put your cursor on top of the box; a cross with arrows will appear… click and hold, drag it down to where you want it. It is sometimes squirrely; just take your time to get it where you want it. Save and View your Blog with your new Etsy Mini!

__________________________________________________________________
To get someone else’s shop Etsy Mini

1 - Do it all the same, as if you are doing your own Etsy Mini… Take note of the other shops “etsy shop number”. I write it down.
*the etsy shop number for any shop is in the address bar when you are at their shop home, just look up.
2 - When you paste the code into the widget tool, simply change the shop number to the one you are trying to get… this will change the mini to their shop mini!

How about that! > ♥ > Isn’t Blogging Fun!

Brat Pack of Etsy - Feature Artist - Liz Edgar ♥

2009-01-26T14:58:00.000-08:00

The Military Brats of Etsy Global Street Team ~ ~ ~ January 2009 Brat Feature ~ ~

Every few weeks we feature one of our members….We are proud to Feature: LizEdgar

her shop;http://lizedgar.etsy.com/

her blog;http://lizedgar.blogspot.com/

To view a photo gallery of other jewelry she has made, please visit:

http://myspace.com/lizedgarsshop

Also posted in the brat blog;

http://etsymilitarybratteam.blogspot.com/

1-Tell us a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, and personal stuff).

My name is Elizabeth, but I go by Liz. I was born in Salt Lake City, UT, but pretty much grew up in San Diego, CA. My dad was in the Navy. During my first year of life he was sent to Vietnam. Mom says he was different when he came home. He was stationed to San Diego when I was a toddler. I wasn’t’ a brat who moved every few years, but a lot of my friends were. We had a common thread that drew us together. Dad went to the Philippines on his last cruise when I was five. We stayed behind in San Diego. He finished out his career and retried a chief. I have one sister. She is career Navy. She is a chief and will be in the Navy 14 years this February. We are fortunate that she has been able to stay stationed in San Diego the last few years. There was a time when she was in Oklahoma. We are very close. She has a son whom I have helped take care of when either she or her ex-husband was sent out to sea. I am married to a Military Brat. His father was Army and Navy. He is not in any branch of the service. I have three children. My sons are 19 and 14 years old and my daughter is 10. My oldest completed Marine boot camp last summer. For now he is stationed at Camp Pendleton.

2-What is the first thing you can remember making by hand?

How and why did you make it?I totally loved creating as a child. Making mud pies with dandelions were a specialty. I had the standard finger paints and play dough as a kid. One year I got a Spin Art set for my birthday. I made a bazillion pictures with it. I remember the cardboard macaroni tree spray painted in gold I made in kindergarten for Christmas. My mother cherishes that tree. I think my favorite was the bean mosaic I made in elementary school. My mother still had it hanging up when I was a senior in high school. I have an Associate’s Degree in Child Development. I like to say I majored in cutting and painting. I have crocheted, cross stitched and latch hooked. I have worked with pellon and felt making finger puppets and props for teaching. I got into the craze of puffy paints and made decorative sweat shirts and t-shirts for family members.
3-What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

I first got into jewelry making when my daughter’s friends brought their beads to a sleepover a few summers ago. I worked with hemp and knotting. I dabbled with elastic string. I prefer bead stringing wire. I started out making bracelets for myself to match the colors of the clothing I had. I received many compliments. My confidence in jewelry making increased and I began making jewelry for friends and my children’s teachers as gifts. One of my friends and co-worker suggested I start selling the pieces I have made. In March of 2005 I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. I made inspirational bracelets to keep my spirits up. Thank goodness it was stage 1 and operable, but at the time I had no idea what I was getting into. While waiting for results between biopsies I kept myself busy making jewelry. It was a great stress reliever.

4-What are your favorite materials?

I really like using glass beads of all shapes and sizes. I like fiber optic because its cat’s eye resemblance. My most recent favorite is glass pearls. I just love their shininess and the array of colors they come in. I prefer bead stringing wire, but have worked with nymo thread. I also enjoy making ribbon bookmarks and cell phone charms. I love the search for colors that complement each other. I also like adding charms to personalize the bookmarks and cell phone dangles. I have a few favorite bookmarks I have made for myself to use in the books I am reading.

5-What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?

I learned about Etsy from my sister. She had heard about in on a morning radio show. The show was flagging online sites that don’t get much recognition. I did a lot of searching on Etsy to see what others were doing in their shops. I opened my shop in June of 2007, but didn’t list anything until August of 2007. I liked what I saw and through the forums and I found that I wasn’t the only one who was new to the whole thing of selling my handmade items. I have really been blessed with joining the Military Brats team. I have found so much love, support and belonging. I really appreciate the kudos I receive from other members. It is very encouraging. I am also a member of the San Diego East County team. SDEC started out as a really small group, but we are increasing as the weeks go by. A few of our members are also members of the Military Brat team. It is really neat to have local folks to meet and share with.

6-Why should people buy handmade?

I feel handmade items are made from the heart. I know with the items I make I put a lot of thought and time into each piece I create. Handmade in my opinion represents the person who makes it. Handmade is more original than assembly line products. I love unique items and feel handmade is the best way to achieve that uniqueness.

7-Where do you do your creating?

Initially my work area was either the living room floor or on my bed. I kept my materials and supplies in storage containers stacked in my bedroom. As my collection increased I moved my work area to the kitchen. I took over the kitchen table, but still left a little room for meals. Now my work area is in the living room. I have rearranged the living room and my work area a few times. At Christmas time I took down my work table to have room for our tree.

8-Apart from creating things, what do you do?

When I am not creating, I take care of my best friend’s baby boy. I have been taking care of him since September 2008. He is 7 months old. Before that I was working at my daughter’s elementary school as a noon duty. I would supervise the children during lunch time and their lunch recess. I did that for three years. I did teach preschool for approximately six years. I left teaching when my daughter was born.

9-Read any good books lately?

I love to read. I was hooked on the Twilight series. My girlfriend and I read the books together last November and December. I have read the Harry Potter series. I dabbled a little with Stephen King’s books. I really like Susan Wiggs. She writes romance novels, but they are not raunchy. I have a Nicholas Sparks book in the waiting. I have read most of his books. I am currently reading “The Shack.”
10-In ten years I'd like to be…Hmm, I haven’t given much thought to where I would be in my life in ten years. I will be celebrating my 40th birthday next month so I would be 50 then. I am happy with who I am. Of course, I would like to be healthy and have my kids near. I would like to be a grandma and spend lots of time with my grandchildren. As for crafting, I am sure I will be doing it in some shape or form. I don’t foresee feeling the need to own a boutique or shop to sell my wares.

11-How did you pick your business name and your etsy avatar?

My Etsy shop name is my name. A friend of mine whom I had given many of my handmade bracelets to totally encouraged me to sell my jewelry. She would rave and flaunt the bracelets I gave her. She called the bracelets she had from me the “Liz Edgar Collection.” Bingo! My shop’s name is LizEdgar. As for my avatar, I wish it was a picture of one of my cats. I have always had cats in my life. I love frogs, too. As a kid I remember going to the frog pond and stepping in the mushy mud to find frogs. So, my avatar is a kitty with a frog hat.

12- What has being a brat at Etsy meant to you?

Being a brat at Etsy is totally awesome. We have a common thread that ties us together. At first I didn’t think I qualified as a brat since my family didn’t move around like other brats. Being a brat at Etsy has given me an extended family. Thank you so much.Go Brat Pack Go!

I had questions about Artfire and how it compaired to Etsy... SO....

2009-01-22T19:27:00.000-08:00

Art Fire vs. Etsy

I had a lot of questions then when I started listing all my questions I realized I was asking quite a bit… I got several members who responded.

Some thoughts from a couple of my Military Brats of Etsy….

Please be sure to check out the shops of these intelligent and thoughtful Crafters~Artist.

http://shinyadornments.artfire.com
and
http://shinyadornments.etsy.com

Then there is…
http://withourhands.artfire.com
and
http://sockmonkeygreetings.etsy.com

First the response from Shinyadornments….

Hi everyone,
I've not posted to the group in FOREVER, but I still read all the posts every day. :-) I saw Terry Ann's post and thought I'd add my 2 cents based on my ArtFire experience so far.

1. How are sales? As in for 100 items listed how many sell each week? How long till your first sale?

Sales are dismal so far...just 1, and I think I got it within the first 3 weeks. But so are my etsy sales, so that isn't really a worry for me. Most of the items in my shop provide enough of a margin for me to not have tons of sales, so I am OK with that.

2. What about traffic and views, are they consistent do you have access to that info?

Traffic and views are better on some items and worse on others compared to etsy. I do get MUCH better google search traffic results on Artfire, and my items from Artfire tend to rank higher in the google search results. No idea why. We have two sets of stats from ArtFire...one is Google Analytics, just like etsy, but with far less random search terms, and one is ArtFire's internal stats, which work really well. ArtFire doesn't seem to have the GA bugs that etsy does. The one piece Artfire doesn't report out on is internal site wide stats soon so we can tell how folks are finding out items from within the site...for instance category searches or text word searches, etc within ArtFire. External traffic to our shops is what is currently tracked by both Etsy and Artfire. Artfire has promised internal search stats soon. Etsy doesn't do that yet...and haven't said they will anytime soon.

3. When you make a sale, is there an integrated pay system or do you have to send a paypal invoice requesting money? Do you have to sign up for other services like Google checkout or RME in order to get paid?

They have an integrated system with Paypal. My one sale went pretty smoothly, so I can't complain. ArtFire also gives the option to utilize RME, Googlecheckout and some others, all at once if you want, so your buyer has lots of payment options. But I don't use them so can't give a valid perspective on how they work. One big plus for me so far with Artfire is that I can pay my shop bill via auto billing from paypal. I just set it up when I opened my shop, and they automatically debit my paypal account monthly. Easy peasy.

4. Do they hold payment themselves and pay monthly?

No. You are paid by your customers in real time, just like etsy.

5. How do you communicate with customers, is there a built in message system or do they go thru your regular email to ask a question?

There is an internal system as well as a contact the seller that sends you an email. The email/contact the seller system leaves a lot to be desired so far, but the Admin has promised a site wide email revamp is in the works.

6-Do they allow for combined shipping when a customer orders more than one item from you?

Yes, they have a very simple to use shipping profile functionality that you can set up anyway you like. Its super easy to use.

7-Do they allow mature items and do they "feature" these type of items?

I think so... but honestly, I haven't seen any on the site yet.

8-Can you get your items submitted to Google Base?

Yes, it is automatic. The shop owners don't have to do anything to set it up.

9-Have you purchased an item from Artfire and what was your experience being a customer?

Not yet, but I have several things 'pending' in my cart. LOL

10-That's about it...! I have been selling online for about 5 years now
and between Ebay and Etsy there is a world of differences. I have seen several venues fail for lack of traffic.... I am seriously looking for more venues to expand my business.

My advice? If you will be frustrated by the site being in beta...don't join now. Or, join at the free level to check it out. You can list 10 items for free. One word of caution: free shops have a bit less functionality than the paying ones (only 4 pictures per listing, other shop's listings show up as ads within you shop, etc). If you like the fact that you may be in on the ground floor to help build a new venue, this might be for you. So, in ranking etsy vs. artfire (and I have shops on both and intend on keeping them both)...

Traffic: Etsy wins hands down
Buyer pool: Etsy wins hands down
Ease of listing: Artfire wins
Site Search: It is a tie so far
Site bugs: Etsy wins
Admin responsiveness: Artfire wins
Communication from the site staff: Artfire wins
Reporting: Artfire wins
Impartiality of site admin: So far, Artfire wins
Site layout: Etsy wins for clean look/feel

I'm not saying this is the right venue for everyone...it is most certainly not. But, so far, I like the vibe, I like that my suggestions are listened to and implemented and I like that for such a new site it is actually growing at a decent clip. There are literally DOZENS of other venues for handmade right now, most opening to lots of fanfare, only to never see increases. I also like the fact that so far, ArtFire has been pretty methodical in its approach. It isn't implementing “whoop to do" tools like Shop by Color and Pounce, but is instead focusing on the core functionality of search and seller functionality instead. A business plan seems to be in place. Wow. ;-)

Now for what withourhands/sockmonkeygreetings said….
Here are my answers.

1-How are sales? As in for 100 items listed how many sell each week? How long till your first sale?

I currently have over 100 items listed but it's only been 1 1/2 weeks since I listed that many items. No sales but plenty of hits on a few of my items. I don't know if it's the market though because I haven't had much on Etsy either. Sales are very slow in both places. The good thing about Artfire is that it isn't costing me a fortune to have no sales. Whereas Etsy costs me each time I list an item to try and get a sale.

2-What about traffic and views, are they consistent do you have access to that info?

The traffic has been pretty regular. Artfire offers you stats on your traffic number of hits plus a list of your top 50 referring websites. I've been impressed with the number of search results on google that my items show up on.

3-When you make a sale, is there an integrated pay system or do you have to send a paypal invoice requesting money? Do you have to sign up for other services like Google checkout or RME in order to get paid?

You don't have to sign up for any payment service that you don't want to. I accept paypal, checks and money orders. I haven't signed up for Googlecheckout or RME although they are both options. I like that they do give you the options to utilize what you'd like. I have seen some buyers on etsy ask if anyone took RME. So there is a market for it.

4-Do they hold payment themselves and pay monthly?

No, you receive your payment right away from the buyer. Just like Etsy.

5-How do you communicate with customers, is there a built in message system or do they go thru your regular email to ask a question?

There is a built in message system that you can use. There is also email (which I find easier).

6-Do they allow for combined shipping when a customer orders more than one item from you?

Just like Etsy they let you choose to discount combined shipping.

7-Do they allow mature items and do they "feature" these type of items?

I'm not sure. I do remember seeing a discussion on the forums but didn't read it. I haven't seen any mature listings show up on the front page yet.

8-Can you get your items submitted to Google Base?

Yes. I'm not that familiar with Google Base but I do know that my items automatically are showing up on Google search results - both regular searches and shopping results.

9-Have you purchased an item from Artfire and what was your experience being a customer?

I have not purchased anything yet. Unfortunately I haven't been in the market for anything and being unemployed I haven't been able to afford to just purchase anything to test it out. :(

10-That is about it... I have been selling online for about 5 years now and between Ebay and Etsy there is a world of differences. I have seen several venues fail for lack of traffic.... I am seriously looking for more venues to expand my business.

Artfire is working hard on making sure they don't become a fly by night selling venue. They have a thing called "Market Hub" that is found on your listings. It gives your customers the opportunity to view you elsewhere online. It links to your Etsy store, flickr account, facebook, twitter, etc. So they encourage you to keep your Etsy shop open and to run both shops. I joined Artfire back in December but didn't really do anything with it until last week. I've been very impressed with Artfire since joining. I know they are new and they don't have the current traffic that Etsy does but I strongly feel they will start to get that traffic soon. There are a number of sellers on Artfire who are committed to seeing it grow and have spent time promoting their shops and Artfire - myself included. With the advertising that Artfire is doing - I feel I have made the right decision by opening my shop there. Right now, I am putting 99.9% of my time on Artfire and putting Etsy on the back burner. Only because my sales are so low that I really don't want to keep spending money to list without getting something in return. My sales slipped in November and they have stayed down. I have items in my store now but they are items that I already had listed and will let run their course.

Me…..
Thank you so much for your sharing your experiences! That kind of info is just what I was looking for; I am seriously considering adding Artfire to my online stores. I am currently selling more off line than online, right now and if the sales will not increase online even with opening new venues I am not sure I want to budget the time for it. So as you can see I am still on the "fence" about it... Thanks Brats for giving me so much more to think about!
♥

The Guitar Purse ~ Rock Star Accessory

2009-01-19T10:03:00.000-08:00

Go Get this one before it disappears!

This is 100 percent bragging and promotion for these two purses I have for sale in my Silkfair Store. This purse is shaped like a Guitar and has some fantastic details. Buttons for "controls" and the strap has been designed to look like the neck of a guitar. It is a wonderfully sparkly bronze and leather. My daughter has one and has carried it for about a year, the reaction to it is amazing! Heads turn and jaws drop! I was with her once when someone chased her down to ask her about her purse. WOW... Go see think about it!

Military Brat Team at Etsy - Secret Santa

2009-01-08T14:53:00.000-08:00

This is something I am enjoying wearing... my secret Santa gift from our Military Brat team at Etsy...Locobead fun fun fun! more photos are on my flickr account ... click on the slide show above. Visit her shop for more beautiful things!

AM Snow on our driveway

2008-12-21T12:18:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share. As I got up this morning 7am and just barely any light I took this photo while standing in my living room in my pjs.

A bit later I got this one, we are "snowed in"

It is time for more coffee or perhaps cocoa, wrap packages, bake cookies, do crafts, etsy, make a snowangel, write christmas cards..... nice snow!

♥ Work space at Home ♥

2008-12-11T20:21:00.000-08:00

♥ Work space at Home ♥

When I first started my little home based business, it was difficult to find space for my sewing machines, the computer and the shipping/wrapping supplies. It was all over the house, especially the computer stuff! I was always in there working away, missing out on the family stuff that was going on just down the hall. We have a "great" room that has the living area, dinning area and the kitchen completely connected, not very fung shui, but very cozy for family relaxing and communication. We had this TV cabinet that was not being used for a TV. I finally solved my "disconnect" by moving all my computer stuff in to it and rolling it right into the kitchen. I put my whole computer desk in this one space, with supplies and a cork board on the inside of the doors to pin important stuff. I put a keyboard drawer just under one of the shelves, and the printer fit in the bottom. I hang my computer glasses just inside. I have my favorite amiguri Kitty mascot on top of my computer tower to watch over me. Sometimes even my real kitty runs by...........

At bedtime or when we have visitors I simply close the doors and it is just a nice cabinet sitting along the wall in the kitchen. Then when I need to get to work I open the doors and roll up my chair. Organization is my middle name, and having it all in a central area so I can work and still bond with my family is the best of all possible outcomes! I hope my idea gives you ideas how to keep the home in home based business.

Chocolate what? Chocolate Wafer/Waffle Mini Cake

2008-12-04T18:05:00.000-08:00

Chocolate Wafer Whip Mini Cake

You will not believe this but there are only two, ingredients in this little mini cake and no baking! This cake is only about 6 inches across including the whipped cream icing.

1 ~ package of chocolate waffle type chocolate cookies, you can also use the Nabisco chocolate wafers but those don't make a cake in this shape. There is a similar recipe on that box.
2 ~ A big tub of Cool Whip.

I got a box of those waffle type chocolate cookies and start by putting a blob of cool whip in the middle of a small plate. Then layer the cookies and blobs of cool whip, until you have a tall enough, finally "ice" the sides and top with more cool whip. The final instructions.......

Put it in the freezer till tomorrow.

Pull it out and cut it up, so yummy!

So what are you waiting for, quick, easy, fun, and yummy, not to mention chocolate!
Enjoy!

Double Brat Featured Artist ~ Lavenderlizard ~

2008-11-18T19:17:00.000-08:00

The Military Brats of Etsy Global Street Team

~ November 2008 Brat Feature ~

every few weeks we feature one of our members, this time we are proud to Feature:

lavenderlizard and lavenderladybug

Double Brat with two stores!
See her etsy shops here;
http://www.lavenderlizard.etsy.com/
and

http://www.lavenderladybug.etsy.com/

Here is her blog…..
http://lavenderlizard.blogspot.com/

Her flickr photos here;
http://www.flickr.com/photos/14254353@N03

See the post on our Bratty Blog here;
http://etsymilitarybratteam.blogspot.com/

1-Tell us a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, and personal stuff).

Hi! My name is Elizabeth Kalka, but everyone calls me Liz. I live in San Antonio, Texas (Military City USA), which is just perfect for a Brat! I’m married to a great guy (served in the US Navy), and we have 4 sons who range in age from 2 to 12.

I consider myself a Texan (part of my family arrived in Texas in the 1700s, and both of my parents were born and raised here), although I was born in Boulder, Colorado. After 20 years in the Air Force, my father retired, and we moved to the Dallas area, where I lived from the age of 10 until I left for college. Then I spent 12 years in Austin, where among other things, I attended the University of Texas (Hook ‘Em!). After my husband and I married, we settled here in San Antonio.

I started The Lavender Lizard with accessories, scrubbies and crocheted necessities about 18 months ago, and this year I opened The Lavender Ladybug, which I envision as my supply and destash shop.

2-What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?

I learned embroidery stitches while I was a Brownie when we were stationed in La Paz, Bolivia. I still have the first thing I made – I raided my mother’s sewing basket for buttons to embellish it. The “fabric” is very coarse, like burlap, and I signed it with my initials.

3-What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

I am probably most inspired by yarn – different colors and textures make me think of different objects. For instance, I found this great fluffy, orange, tweedy yarn, and I thought “I just have to make pumpkins out of this!” So I did! The problem is I have more yarn and ideas for it than I have time….

4-What are your favorite materials?

Well, yarn, of course! I also cross-stitch, and I am in the process of designing cross-stitch embellishments for The Lavender Ladybug.

5-What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?

Patience, for sure! Also, it’s important to know that an Etsy shop is not static – you must spend time listing, photographing, editing, writing, learning, promoting, networking, renewing, blogging, checking the forums, mailing (hopefully), and keeping records. That’s after you have spent time creating in the first place.

6-Why should people buy handmade?

Handmade = love! I have always cherished handmade gifts, and I love to have one-of-a-kind items that someone cared enough to make. Buying handmade is supporting an artist, and I can’t stress the importance of that enough!

7-What features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?

I would love to be able to organize my favorites – I’m forever hearting items, like I’ll go on a hearting spree through Pounce or the Treasury, but good luck finding them again. I don’t have the patience (or time) to check the pages of my favorites.

I would also love the ability to organize my shop without renewing items and put items into more than one shop category.

8-Apart from creating things, what do you do?

Well, I parent my boys, which keeps me quite busy. I have served on PTA boards for the last 6 years (this year, I am the treasurer for the middle school PTA). I have a weekend job in retail. And every night before I go to bed, I have to read, no matter how tired I am.

9-Read any good books lately?

Just finished “The 39 Clues” (Rick Riordan, the author, also lives in San Antonio), and I’m looking forward to the next one in this series (Put down the book, people – I’m going to win the prizes!)

I’m also working my way through the Bones series (although I found I could not stand the TV series based on these books! Weird, huh?) My favorite place in the world is a library.

10-In ten years I'd like to be…

Watching my 2 oldest sons graduate from college, DS3 graduating from high school, and seeing my youngest son enter teenage hood. Professionally, I would love to publish some of my original crochet designs.

11-How did you pick your business name and your etsy avatar?

Both The Lavender Lizard and The Lavender Ladybug were named with my favorite color in mind. Also, when I was growing up, my nickname was Lizard. My friend Photoshop and I created both of my avatars.

12- What is the connection between being a Crafter and being a Brat?

It doesn’t surprise me that a lot of Brats also craft. It must have something to do with the ability to be creative on the fly, to adapt to new situations quickly, and to use crafting to stay grounded in our lives. Growing up as a Brat, I was terribly shy and hated meeting new people. I still feel that way sometimes, but I also found that I can relate to most people on some level because of my life experiences. I think that’s probably true of most Brats!

~Liz

Yes I was featured... go see!!!

2008-11-16T13:07:00.000-08:00

I was featured on this very cute blog... Go and check it out! Click the badge above and then the entries.

What was I thinking ~ Really ~ Halloween ~ Sarah Palin ~ ish?

2008-11-01T12:09:00.000-07:00

~ Sarah Palin ~ ish?....am I?

..... I am a bit older and not as curvy, or as educated, or well connected, but I was recognized and it was fun! Not too scary.

Since my McCain was stumping in "another state" I went out with my mom and mother in law... so instead of big security guys, I had a couple of Grammies with me....☺ I don't have the bangs so that was a problem I couldn't/wouldn't fix.

I entertained them with some fancy pageant walking..... then those high heels just killed my feet!

Fun Fun Fun.... what will I do for next year?

Military Friendly Shops ~ A web based network for help and discounts

2008-10-26T12:48:00.000-07:00

Today I got notice that I was one of the "Shops of the Week" on a web site dedicated to help with shopping and shipping for military families, especially those overseas! COOL! Check it out!

http://www.militaryfriendlyshops.webs.com/

This is how they describe themselves and the web site....

Who We Are
We are two Army wives & mothers! Yep just like you! We love to shop and have our own business making hair items for lil ones. We come across many sales and specials and thought..why not share them!!
We are avid online shoppers, we can and will (try!!) find every discount for you!
Our personal shops can be found at:

Lizzies Little Liahs Baby Bows Site

A Soldiers Flowers Etsy Site

And we offer FREE shipping to all APO, & FPO address's!
Any questions for us or about us?? Just ask!
Angela & Elizabeth

I Won!

2008-10-11T14:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday in the mail I received these two cute buttons by mechelledesigns.etsy.com

She had a little contest on her blog http://mechelledesigns.blogspot.com and

♪♪♪♫♫♫♪♪♫♫♫♪♪♪

I WON!

They are so adorable, you should see the other neat stuff in her shop! She explains herself this way:

With a background in design and illustration, Mechelle would create handmade cards for the Christmas holidays to send out to family and friends. After getting married and starting her family, she stopped making cards for a while. She started making cards again as gifts for her children's teachers and selling them at art festivals in which she exhibited her work. She decided to create her own line after encouragement from fellow artists and other recipients.

I am enjoying my little buttons!

the Daily Verse

2008-10-09T08:11:00.001-07:00

Some of you who are my regular readers may have found your way all the way down to the very bottom of the page where I post the "daily verse". A year ago or so I was searching for a devotional type of ~ something ~ some wisdom ~ so I could just open a mini study right here at my computer. Well after several attempts at it and not finding just the right thing either because of content or style. I found the "daily verse" and I signed up. Here is how it works, each weekday in my email I receive a verse with a little comment after it by the author. She always seems to pounce right on the very point of the verse, her comments are insightful and poignant in ways that cheer my heart and help me meditate on the love of God and his precepts. I hope that you will not miss the daily verse when you visit this blog ~ scroll down and check out what verse is there for you today.

Here is one I found so insightful, useful and it was just for me!

"So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.

1 Corinthians 9:26,27

~~~~~~~~~

Sometimes we feel like we're running on a treadmill, getting nowhere, running aimlessly. As you step into today, consider discipline and control, and be intentional about where you're headed. Perhaps you don't have the strength to complete a marathon, but one step at a time, seek the Lord's grace, and draw from His reservoir of endurance. He will give you what you need to press forward. "

indigobaydesigns and littlepinkplum ~ Brat Feature

2008-09-28T20:28:00.000-07:00

The Military Brats of Etsy Global Street Team

~ Fall 2008 Brat Feature ~

Every few weeks we feature one of our members, this time we are proud to Feature:

indigobaydesigns and littlepinkplum
Double Brat with two stores!

See her etsy shops here;
http://www.indigobaydesigns.etsy.com/
http://www.littlepinkplum.etsy.com/
Her flickr photos here;
http://www.flickr.com/photos/30849866@N07
See the post on our Bratty Blog here;
http://etsymilitarybratteam.blogspot.com/

1-Tell us a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, and personal stuff).

My name is Janet and I’m married with 3 kids. I live in El Cajon, CA (same place as our team leader oceankisses and also lizedgar). I am an Army brat and was born in Maryland. I graduated from high school in Japan and then my father was transferred to Arizona. A friend of mine was living in San Diego and asked me to share an apartment with her. So I moved out here and that was almost 20 years ago.

2-What is the first thing you can remember making by hand?

How and why did you make it?

I remember in elementary school gluing Popsicle sticks together to make a picture frame, and then gluing macaroni shells onto the Popsicle sticks. My teacher spray painted the frame and I gave it to my parents. It was something all the kids in my class made to give to their parents for Christmas.

3-What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

With my pocket mirrors, I look at various types of paper and try to figure out if that particular paper would be a good design for a mirror. And I make a lot of pendants based on what my two daughters like or ask me to make. I have recently started to experiment with my original drawings and digitally coloring them, and hope to turn them into mirrors and pendants soon.

4-What are your favorite materials?

Paper and more paper. I also like fabric. I sew a little and just made some lavender sachets to give as gifts this Christmas.

5-What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?

One important lesson I’ve learned from other artists on Etsy is to take great pictures since that is what is going to catch the eye of a potential buyer. That is something I still need to improve on, but I have come a long way from when I first started listing.

6-Why should people buy handmade?

People should buy handmade because it’s not a mass produced item that a million other people are going to have. You’re getting something very special that had a lot of attention, caring and pride that went into making it.

7-What features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?

One feature I would like to see is to be able to block non paying buyers from returning to your shop. I would also like to see Etsy become just as well known as the other “E” site. When I tell people that I sell on Etsy, I usually get a blank stare.

8-Apart from creating things, what do you do?

I love to read and I usually go to the library at least once a week to check out books or to get on the waiting list for the latest bestseller. I’ve been a stay at home mom since my son was born 3 years ago, and I spend a lot of time chauffeuring my kids around to school, after school activities, etc. They keep me busy.

9-Read any good books lately?

I just finished reading a book by Anne Perry. I love her Victorian murder mysteries.

10-In ten years I'd like to be…

... happy and successful at whatever I’m doing. I would also like to have some wholesale accounts. I just completed a small order for a boutique in Los Angeles, and I would love to sell my pendants and mirrors to more shops.

11-How did you pick your business name and your etsy avatar?

For littlepinkplum, I chose that name based on my favorite colors and the “little” part comes from me being not quite 5 feet tall. Indigo Bay is the name of a beautiful island resort near the Indian Ocean. I would love to vacation there someday.

12- What has being a brat at Etsy meant to you?

Not only is there a common bond of being crafters, but there’s also a special connection because of our unique background as brats.

Service makes life Heavenly

2008-09-26T08:32:00.000-07:00

Today in my in box I got this email from a friend. I don't know if she is the author or if she just took it from the internet somewhere, I am repeating it here because it is just that good....

A holy man was having a conversation with the Lord one day and said.

"Lord, I would like to know what Heaven and Hell are like."

The Lord led the holy man to two doors. He opened one of the doors and the holy man looked in. In the middle of the room was a large round table. In the middle of the table was a large pot of stew, which smelled delicious and made the holy man's mouth water The people sitting around the table were thin and sickly. They appeared to be famished. They were holding spoons with very long handles that were strapped to their arms and each found it possible to reach into the pot of stew and take a spoonful. But because the handle was longer than their arms, they could not get the spoons back into their mouths.

The holy man shuddered at the sight of their misery and suffering. The Lord said, "You have seen Hell."

They went to the next room and opened the door.

It was exactly the same as the first one. There was the large round table with the large pot of stew which made the holy man's mouth water. The people were equipped with the same long -handled spoons, but there the people were well nourished and plump, laughing and talking. The holy man said, "I don't understand."

"It is simple," said the Lord. "It requires but one skill. You see they have learned to feed each other, while the greedy think only of themselves."

When Jesus died, he was thinking of you. Are we willing to share our spoon?

As I contemplate my next life ~ adventure ~ I am compelled to choose service to others rather than just self.

Cool.

Almost Instant - Almost Famous - Hot Fudge Sauce

2008-09-15T09:45:00.000-07:00

What am I doing?
Well, yes..... I am sharing publicly, "my world" famous HOT FUDGE SAUCE, topping for Ice Cream or anything else where Hot Fudge is needed !

My kids love this and I have sold laminated copies of it at my etsy shop..... At this point I decided it would be better to share it, than keep selling it for the cost of the laminated sheets... so here is the secret!!!
Shussss....keep it quiet, we don't want everyone to know how really easy it is to get a chocolate fix so rich and yummy!

For years my kids were bugging me to buy those expensive jars of Fudge sauce, so I began working on a quick cheaper alternative. This is ALMOST instant because it takes less than 5 minutes to make, assemble the 5 basic (you have this in your cupboard) ingredients and whisk together over medium/high heat.

First you will need;

Wire Whisk ~ Sauce Pan

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

NEXT collect the following ingredients:

3 Tbsp Butter (real)

1/3 cup Sugar (granulated)

1/4 cup Cocoa (dutch processes)

2 1/2 Tbsp Milk (whole)

Pinch of Salt

Assemble and measure out all ingredients,so they will be close at hand.

Melt butter over medium heat, whisk in sugar, when Incorporated, whisk in Cocoa, it will be gooey and slightly gritty. Add milk, whisk till fully combined. Allow to simmer just a minute whisking every few seconds. When it bubbles thickly... add pinch of salt, whisk and.... it is ready to pour on the ice cream or etc.

Serves about 3.... Don't count the calories OK!

ENJOY !

*all that whisking, sometimes causes splats!

*On cake

*On a spoon

*On Ice Cream (the classic)

*Dip pretzels

*Dip fruit (it is healthy!)

****YUMMY YUMMY****

If you would like to get a laminated copy from me, I still have a few, just send me a message and we can work something out, other wise feel free to use this and enjoy!

My New Favorate Place to surf ~ Cut Out and Keep

2008-09-05T10:21:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago I discovered this site Cut Out and Keep! They call themselves a step by step crafty community. It is full of mini "How to's"... written by people just like you and me. I have been surfing there quite a bit and finally put up a couple of things up myself.... check out my step by step...

My teen daughter finally got her ears pierced... so needed a place to put and display her begining collection... We did this...

Click on either photo to go to the Step by Step........ at Cut Out and Keep!

I also put up this wonderful drink that will cool you off on these last hot days of summer....

Italian Soda ... yummy and cool, calories yes but so good! click on the photo to go straight to the "How to"!

The Purse Tote - Oops I didn't do that on purpose !!! - Black and White Chrysantemum fabric with touch of Silver

2008-08-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Or maybe it is ok........... missed it by that much. > <

Sometimes after making, creating, sewing, ironing, and otherwise being creative, you make an Oops! I have had my share of OOooops ~ es in the past and mostly I carry them myself or I take them apart and begin again. This time I decided it wasn’t that bad, and I have noticed that other Etsians have listed Oops also. In fact there was a treasury devoted to Oops a few weeks ago and they were lovely.
This is an "Ooops" because the snaps were put on off center and attached slightly to one side... This is priced slightly lower than the others because of the Ooops. If it is not sold in one cycle on etsy it will not be renewed and I will carry it. It is really a beautiful fabric. Oh! I might get another for my own collection! It is really a beautiful fabric. If this Oops is calling your name you can buy it at my shop..
Then put Oops in the search box and see what else comes up you will be surprised!

Bug Storm ~ and other adventures on the Road.

2008-08-22T12:26:00.000-07:00

Bug Storm ~ and other adventures on the Road.

Many of you may know that I have been going on "road trips" this summer to visit the local colleges and universities in our area that my teen may want to attend fall 09. They do these tours, and we visit the classrooms and dorms, it is really neat way to help make a decision.
This was our last trip, and we were on a six hour drive in Eastern Washington, about dusk. When there arose such a splatter! I couldn't believe what we were seeing, splat! Splat! SPLAT!!!. It was a Bug Storm! It contained all sorts of bugs, locus, ladybug, flies, mayflies, and other really juicy ones!
My car has a kind of grimace, after having to endure it!

One large one still left stuck on after 300 more miles................ It got so thick that there was just a small place for me to see out of the window, and I had to constantly use the window cleaner to keep that area clean.
Ladybugs too!.................... They were so thick, it looked like a snowstorm.
Well ... it lasted about 5 minutes and when we arrived at the hotel later that night, there were about 50 still attached to the grill, too bad I didn't take a photo of that! These photos are from the next day when we got home 300 miles later, so alot blew off already.
I also let my teen drive, through the mountians, but that is another adventure, that the description is better left for another day!

BRATs of Etsy - Featured Seller - Artist! - Handsoncrafts

2008-08-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

The Military Brats of Etsy Global Street Team ~ August 2008 Brat Feature ~Every few weeks we feature one of our members….
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Handsoncrafts
See her etsy shop here;
http://handsoncrafts.etsy.com
See her web site here; http://handsonartsandcrafts.com
See the post on our Bratty Blog here;http://etsymilitarybratteam.blogspot.com

1-Tell us a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, and personal stuff).
My name is Mabel. I’m 29 years old. I live in Chesapeake, Va. I’ve lived here for 5 years.I was born at Andalucia, Spain. I'm a Navy wife and mother of 4 wonderful children.

2-What is the first thing you can remember making by hand?
How and why did you make it?Oh it was a Sarah Kay frame made of a few posters and some glue; I made the posters shine with many covers of glue that made it look shiny and hard. Then I put cotton on the back and glued on a frame!! I remember it was beautiful!!!

3-What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

Love inspires me, the love of my children, my husband and even my puppies, Nature inspires me too and also God. Sometimes an idea just comes to me and I run to get a paper and a pencil and draw it before is gone, and then I make themcome true!

4-What are your favorite materials?

Oh, Cold Porcelain, I have been working with Cold Porcelain since I was 13 or 14 just watching THE MASTER, My MOM!

5-What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?

Do not underestimate, if anything overestimate it makes you look good and keeps the customer happy.
6-Why should people buy handmade?

For me handmade means made with love and care. It is something that one person puts hours of work, total attention andLove.

7-What features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?
I would like to see them advertise more.

8-Apart from creating things, what do you do?
I am a stay at home mom with 4 kids. I have 1 boy 13 years old, my big helper. Also I have a 1 yr. old little girl that keeps me really busy. and 3 year old girl, who loves to eat all the time and go outside. ha! Ha! hA! And my sweet 9 year old girl she is my strength.

9-Read any good books lately?

Oh yeah "the 5 languages of love" I think everyone needs to read this book, it is awesome.

10-In ten years I'd like to be…
Hmmm having my own boutique gift shop!!!

11-How did you pick your business name and your etsy avatar?

Well Hands on Arts and Crafts, which is my business name. My mom's store is "Art In Your hands" So that's the reason for “Hands" then I do Arts and Crafts so they came together very well. Don’t you think? And my Etsy Avatar I just picked one of my pictures and I made it my self. Here is my mom’s web address; I want to share her site http://www.artinyourhands.com.

12-What is a Brat and how does that help you craft?

Well My Dad was from the Air force of Spain so I grew up traveling. When I was a kid it was really hard to adapt too manydifferent places, but then turned fun when I start doing crafts and learning new Crafts and techniques from different countries. I learned Jewelry in Peru, I learn to cross stitch in Korea and many other crafts in different countries, so CRAFTS helped me a lot and are very important in my life!!! When my husband goes on Deployment I just sit in my studio at night and submerge my self there, it makes the time fly!!

Custom Shoes from Japanese Pirate

2008-08-08T15:02:00.000-07:00

Custom tennis shoes by the Japanese Pirate…. My daughter, who is studying to become a graphic designer, has these custom shoe creations she is offering for sale. A customer may send a short list of ideas (simple color choices or cartoon samples will do for inspiration) they wish to include. She will use that list as inspiration to create and design a pair of shoes just for you. You will notice she has a love of all things Japanese, so the shoes pictured here are of little Japanese cartoons.

She wears them quite often, and gets so many comments! There is a big Wow Factor involved!

Happy sunshine !
Rainbow swoosh……
What ?

“Nani” means “what” in Japanese hence the ? question mark.No puddle jumping! This is her personal pair therefore the wear in them.

These sell for $35.00 plus $6 shipping.

Currently available in sizes… 5, 7, 8 and 9….We are currently looking for some more 6’s.

You can order your own pair by leaving your email in the comments below I will contact you for your list of ideas you want incorporated into your own pair, and send you a paypal invoice.
This process uses sharpie pens and is fairly color safe; however, these shoes are not to be worn on the beach or on very rainy days…. And absolutely no puddle jumping allowed!

BRATs of Etsy - Featured Team

2008-08-01T11:04:00.000-07:00

YEP! The Military Brats of Etsy Global Street Team was featured in their blog the Storque.

We also got a front page treasury picked by Etsy themselves..

Here is that front page.... in all its glory...

To see what we are up to lately check out the Brats Street Team Blog!

Today I am featured on TalentDataBase!

2008-07-29T09:12:00.000-07:00

Hey all, I woke this morning to a little email from talentdatabase, telling me I am featured in their Craft section, OK ! yippee!

BRATs of Etsy - Featured Seller - Artist! - GoodScents and SilverTreeJewelry

2008-07-21T01:14:00.000-07:00

The Military Brats of Etsy Global Street Team

~ JULY 2008 Brat Feature ~

We are proud to Feature: GoodScents and SilverTreeJewelry
Every few weeks we feature one of our members. She is one of the many Etsy Artist that can support and fill two shops with the things she creates… so both are promoted here.

http://goodscents.etsy.com/ SKIN CARE, HOME FRAGRANCE
also… as
http://silvertreejewelry.etsy.com/ JEWELRY

1-Tell us a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, and personal stuff).

My name is Cari and I'm a single parent of two teenagers (yes, I'm actually still sane). I live in the Fort Worth, TX area.

2-What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?

You're gonna laugh. I was about 5 and I took some notebook paper and stapled them together into some hats. They really only 'fit' my tiny head. But I was convinced that they were wonderful (light blue lines and all) and I went down the street, house to house, trying to sell them for a nickel. I think I sold 3 of them. Money was tight at our house, and I remember thinking that I could make enough money to pay for some groceries! Obviously, I didn't.

3-What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?

I am a shopper. But I'm not much of a buyer. The reason is that I don't see things that really make me happy. I'm not into spending simply to do so. I want to enjoy what I buy. I owned a retail gift store for more than 5 years. When I'd go to market to find things for the store, I'd have an idea what I wanted to buy. And rarely could I find it. If I did, the price was outrageous (in my opinion). Bath & Body (along with candles and other home fragrance) was a particular problem for me. I couldn't find a line that was well made, with a wide variety of scents, at a reasonable price point and not overdone (or selling out to the mass merchants in town). So, in true entrepreneurial fashion, I did it for myself. I created candles first, then bottled my oils, and then branched into the soap, lotion, lip balm, etc. I now make more than 500 products and new products are always in the works. My cold process soaps (Artisan Soap) should debut in Fall 2008. My products are crafted from top quality ingredients. They have glorious fragrance. And they are reasonably priced.

4-What are your favorite materials?

Quality oils (such as coconut, shea, sweet almond, castor etc--no animal oils used in my products), fabulous fragrance (I buy from almost 9 different suppliers, currently, to get the wide range of scents to offer.

5-What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?

To be patient. And I will admit that patience is not my best attribute. I know how good my products are and I want people to try them. I have to tell myself 'all in good time'. I know that many sellers have been at Etsy much longer than I have, but I also know my products, quality ingredients and attention to detail cannot be topped. I soon hope to convince more to make my shop their favorite place for pampering or cleansing products.

6-Why should people buy handmade?

Large companies are shareholder owned, by and large. Those corporate entities have a promise to keep to their investors. And that promise is profits. To get 'there', they will cut whatever corners they can, sometimes to the point of substituting (in my opinion) inferior ingredients. Of course, they also can enjoy economies of purchase that small companies, like mine, can't match. But we aren't paying multi millions for corporate executive payroll, either. One of my larger, and very well known, competitors uses ingredients that I would never consider: synthetic vitamin E, sunflower oil (which goes rancid fast), etc. Not that these are horrible, absolutely not, but I put higher grade and quality ingredients into every product. I don't substitute cheap oil for a more expensive. I make the best product that I can.

7-What features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?

I'd like a more discriminatory search function, to fine tune a search. Say you wanted soap. Ok, then you wanted glycerin soap that is blue. You can't do that right now. It would be cool to have that ability.

8-Apart from creating things, what do you do?

I write novels for fun. One's ready for the publisher. Anyone know a good agent? I also make stained glass and jewelry. My jewelry is sold here at Etsy under the shop name http://www.silvertree.etsy.com/ . I will admit that most of my jewelry is sold off Etsy, which is why my shop is a bit bare right now. I also do custom orders.

9-Read any good books lately?

I'm a science fiction/traditional fiction type of person. I know, that is a dichotomy, but that is who I am. I just re-read Pride and Prejudice for the upmteenth time. I love that book.

10-In ten years I'd like to be…

Living in my cute bungalow house (as off grid as I can manage it...) with huge shade trees and on a large lot, Where I can have a vegetable garden and a flower garden. Where the neighbor and I cannot shake hands and still remain WITHIN our houses. I want to be able to bike to the grocery store, church and post office. And go daily to my little soap store on the main square. I guess I want to live in Mayberry! There I want to sell my products not only to locals but to a wider audience on Etsy. And live entirely off the ability of my mind and my hands.

11-How did you pick your business name and your etsy avatar?

That is my business name and has been for more than 8 years. Back before I named the biz, I would bring out a new product and one of my store customers would go ‘wow that is a good scent!' Uh huh....and so we go... I designed my banner and Etsy avatar myself. I also do all of the design work on my labels.

12-What is a Brat and how does that help you craft?

My dad was in the Air Force and we moved around a lot. I don't think I'd be as creative if I hadn't grown up in that time and in that way. This was before more than 4 channels on the TV and nothing computerized. We made our own fun. And, as we were never rolling in money, we did it with an eye to frugality. I taught myself the joy of being creative. And it all comes from living in 8 different places before I turned 12...

I am featured in another Blog!

2008-07-16T09:39:00.001-07:00

So here is the low down and up take on the info FYI!

Read all the gouge about yours truly, that is fit to print and I hope that some find me brillant! I am really honored to have been picked to be featured and so I will encourage you to visit her blog~~~~>>>> http://www.jensvintage.blogspot.com/ and her shops. You Go Jen! and Thank You Very Much!

Italian Sodas with out the Barista ~

2008-07-07T20:22:00.001-07:00

Here is something cool for these Hot July days

~ Cold and creamy ~ sweet and yummy! ~

Now I am not a cook!... and this is getting really close to cooking… I put photos in between the instructions to help you understand my slap dash way of making these.
I made these out of plain NEED one hot summer day…my daughter worked as a Barista and told me the basic ingredients ..... here goes.

All my directions are in proportions so you can make this in any size glass or mug.

First assemble these three ingredients:

½ and ½ - cream works too but I like ½ and ½!

Some kind of syrup flavoring – I like this Carmel one and also love the raspberry.

Club Soda – any kind

I put Ice in to fill about 2/3 of the glass.

Then pour in the ½ & ½ to about 1/3 rd of the glass.

Next add a bit of the syrup, I like to glug… glug twice, or about one fat finger measure added to the bottom of the glass, So that the total liquid is now approximately at half of the glass.

Finally I add the club soda to the top of the glass, and stir it gently.

Add a topping of whipped cream if you dare….
Calories are low if you are an athlete.....Otherwise I don't suggest trying to count, just cool off and enjoy!

Homefront ~ Independence Day Team Challenge!

2008-07-04T13:10:00.000-07:00

Red, White and Blue…the vote is up to YOU!

Team Homefront is a group of Military Spouses and we have challenged ourselves to come up with a few patriotic items to celebrate Independence Day! As military spouses we have a great love for our beautiful country and this is our way of showing support for the USA and our soldiers that still fight for our freedom!

You will find our entries on the Homefront blog, we have everything from cards to travel pillows. Please take a moment to check out each item AND feel free to visit our stores by clicking on the picture! Voting begins July 1stth and runs through July 7, so please come back during that time and vote for the item you like the most by leaving a comment with you favorite seller’s name! If you’re a first-time commenter, your comment will have to be approved before it will appear. No worries! Our blog team is on it!

Check it out here - > - > http://www.etsyhomefront.com/

Why take the time to vote?? As a thank you for your vote and your support we would like to offer you 10% off in each of our participating shops, good for one purchase per shop. To redeem your 10% off just enter “vote” in the notes to seller. ALSO…each shop that votes receives a chance to be entered in a treasury! These will be done at random from the shops that have voted and may be in regular Treasury or Treasury West.

The item that wins will be featured here on our website for the month of July including an etsy mini. Please visit back after July 7th to see who one and learn more about them and their shop! This one is my favorate. - --- >
see the shop -> http://www.mrsdstahl.etsy.com
Thanks for supporting Team Homefront and Happy Birthday, USA!

Brat 4th of July Sale and promotion

2008-06-21T10:30:00.000-07:00

My Shop !

http://terryann.etsy.com/

Here is the info…. Between now and the 4th…..
¤´¨)¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)(¸.•´ (¸.•`¤~♥♥♥♥♥♥ Type the word "BRAT" in your message to the seller ♥♥♥♥And all domestic shipping will be $7. If the shipping charges are already under $7 it will be FREE. Yes FREE! I will send a paypal refund right away, after purchase.☺

The Brat Street Team of Etsy is also having a promotion and each member is deciding how to participate… here is the forum thread that explains their promotions

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5667993

The Military Brats of Etsy Global Street Team ~ JUNE 2008 Brat Feature – elephantdreams and radcliffedesignes

2008-06-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

Every few weeks we feature one of our members. We are proud to Feature: “Elephantdreams and radcliffedesignes, she is one of the many Etsy Artist that can support and fill two shops with the things she creates… so both are promoted here.

Photos à
http://www.flickr.com/photos/grace2b
website: http://web.mac.com/grace2b
blog: http://rhradcliffedesigns.blogspot.com/

http://elephantdreams.etsy.com/ Tripping around the world with a camera and my feet

also… as

http://rhradcliffedesigns.etsy.com/ Art: Watercolors, Photographs, Jewelry and Prints

1-Tell us a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, and personal stuff).My name is Ruth Hill Radcliffe. I was born in Artesia, California back when it was orange groves instead of parking lots. My dad had just returned from the war and my mom was an English war bride. I drove my parents crazy because I cried all the time. When I was 4 my dad was recalled to serve in Korea. He never made it there but we did end up in Laredo, Texas for the first of many moves. Because we moved around so much I've had experiences that at times made me cringe, at others made me jump for joy. There were 2 moves that really made huge impressions on me....the first being sent to Caracas, Venezuela when I was 6. It was scary, exciting, and full of adventures. The second was being transferred to the Air Force Academy when I was a Jr. in high school. I think that move was probably the most profound because it sent my life in a totally new direction, meeting some really neat guys (and eventually my husband) and leading me to attend Colorado Womens College where I met some really neat gals who are still my dearest friends. Both the Academy and college were among the best memories of my young life.I now live in Houston, Texas. Texas seems to have been my home for the last 32 years...with the exception of a wonderful 4 year stay in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. I've been a photographer for the past 32 years, an artist for almost 50 and a wife for 37 and a mother for 33. Not all those things are in order. I've been active in arts associations and most notably the Watercolor Society here in Houston. I joined Etsy in September 2006, and must confess didn't have a clue as to what it was all about. It took almost 8 months to figure out you just don't build it and they will come. The experience, though, has spawned a climb up a learning curve of computer and internet life, one which challenges me every day.

2-What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?The first thing I really remember making by hand was this really wonderful collage in 2nd grade with fabrics and buttons and all sorts of really cool things. I remember it the most because I enjoyed it so much I decided to take some of the things home with me so I could make another one. I got busted and embarrassed but, I think I'd have done it again. It was just so much fun putting all those things on paper.

3-What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?Wow, what inspires me...that could take a book but to condense it a little, I would say that I am inspired by color, really bright, wonderful color. And then design and texture. You put those three things together and I get really itchy. I get my head wrapped around detail with color, designs and textures and I'm in heaven, whether it’s taking photos, painting, making jewelry or mosaics.

4-What are your favorite materials?Too many. I would have to list my camera first, but then paint and beads and fabrics and glass and.............oh my! The learning of a new technique with new mediums is just about the most exciting thing I can think of. 2 years ago I did the 1st of 3 large exterior mosaics. I didn't know anything about them when I started but the glass felt like magic in my hands. I have some raw silk that I'm dying to do something with.....is there a material I don't like.....well yeah, I have to say pastels, but only because I'm allergic to the chalk.

5-What have been the most valuable lessons learned from other artists on Etsy?There have been so many lessons, so many artists, so much help, and support and love. There are people who stop and go that extra distance to help, and mentor. Etsy is a community of artists that I truly value.....and consider being a part of this community a special artistic and spiritual experience. Friendship, support, humor, and belonging......all have been an important part of my life when I needed all of the above the most.

6-Why should people buy handmade?No question there.....handmade....what else is there? Well that question can be answered by sweatshops, cheap knock offs, lack of creativity, costly junk that has no soul. And sadly, the fact that so many people don't realize the beauty of handmade when they put a dollar amount ahead of quality and lovingly made art.

7-What new features/services would you most like to see on Etsy?To be honest, I don't really have an answer that really fits. I find the most frustrating part of Etsy is when certain artists and shops are mentioned and featured in some way again and again. With so many artists here there is a void the needs filling. I don't say any of that out of jealousy, but just wish that more could be spread out among the many.

8-Apart from creating things, what do you do?Well....at the moment what I do the most is trying to learn computer skills....creative as well as practical. I'm really working hard at learning to scan the many thousands of negatives and slides so I can use them in this digital age. It has been frustrating for me because over 25 years of work is film. And translating it into workable computer images....well drives me demented. But computer aside, I spend time with my husband and 2 beautiful greyhounds. I plan in my head my next trip to Asia. And I look at my garden with all its funk and know I should be out there weeding. So much more fun putting all sorts of collections out there.

9-Read any good books lately?Well, I used to be an avid reader, so much so I was always in trouble and far behind in what needed to be done. Lately I've sort of taken a holiday....but I love inspirational stories. My favorite secret pleasure though is reading a good mystery. So it sort of vacillates between Buddha and Elizabeth George. kind of a dichotomy that is.

10-In ten years I'd like to be…still challenged by life and art. I think I'd also like to be at peace, both in the world and with myself.

11-How did you pick your business name and your etsy avatar?well, my first shop was just an extension of what I had been doing for years.....rhradcliffedesigns is sort of boring, but it was a part of me for a long time. I had a hard time coming up with an avatar for that one, but I convinced my son to do a vector of me, and then I put wild colors in it. So it sort of fits, a crazy lady with bright pink background and big glasses.Elephantdreams evolved out of love. The title has a lot of meaning in so many parts of my life. A work in progress is "In Search of Elephants and Other Graces", a book I've been working on for years. The elephant has just been a big part of my imagination, and when I decided I needed a shop just for photography elephant dreams just kept rumbling around. As far as the avatar goes, it’s still a work in progress; I knew I wanted something in black and white. And I've had fun with a photo program on my computer....but as I said that part is a work in progress.

12- What is a Brat and how does that help you craft? A brat is someone who has been places that not many people have been, the journey sometimes alone, sometimes with many and sometimes just there. I really feel like every part of me has been shaped by that brattiness that is who we are.....the constant moving and learning and trying out new "selves". I also think it plays a huge role in the choices I make as to what I want to learn and experiment with next. Every new material is a journey and adventure. I sometimes get frustrated because there are so many things I want to do....I'll try anything once, usually more. I think I am fearless when it comes to experimenting.....many pieces which don't show up on Etsy. My craft is also my lifeline......it was especially that growing up, and now it’s a link to the future, and a grounding wire. "Oh the places you will go"

Etsy OOoops! I didn’t mean to do that!

2008-06-12T17:55:00.000-07:00

Or maybe it is ok, missed it by that much. > <

Sometimes after making, creating, sewing, ironing, and otherwise being creative, you make an Oops! I have had my share of OOooops ~ es in the past and mostly I carry them myself or I take them apart and begin again. This time I decided it wasn’t that bad, and I have noticed that other Etsians have listed Oops also. In fact there was a treasury devoted to Oops a few weeks ago and they were lovely.

This is an "Ooops" because the interior-lining got ironed on and attached slightly wrinkled on one side... see it in the third photo. This is priced lower than the others because of the Ooops. If it is not sold in one cycle on etsy it will not be renewed and I will carry it. It is really a beautiful fabric. If this Oops is calling your name you can buy it at my shop..

Then put Oops in the search box and see what else comes up you will be surprised!

Just So terryann !...

2008-06-02T18:45:00.001-07:00

I had to think of something quick! I was signing up for a blog. I was not prepared to just use my first name again. However, I couldn’t come up with some wildly creative tag that would allow it to come up on every blog search and be so “on the mind” of everyone that it would be natural for them to just fall into my blog. I did want to use this space for my shops and yet I also want to use this as an open diary of sorts. I wanted to share a few mostly public happenings and events, as well as how amazingly I find myself being blessed in every situation. What first sprang to mind was Just terryann, that didn’t quite carry me. I then had a bit of a brain blank, bubble, or maybe a seizure… no idea! …. I thought, I thought some more, I delayed, I watched Dr. Phil. I had tea and cookies, and then I went and got the mail. All very exciting activates to say the least. Some where in there I remembered a kids show called “that’s so Raven”, I also remember someone telling me how when something is right it is “Just So”. It caught my attention; I hope it catches yours also. Sometimes my blog will be “Just so” or right. Then other times it will be “just so Terryann” or so much like me.

Finally... part 4, isn't that enough

2008-05-30T10:47:00.000-07:00

Finally….. part 4 …
26~ learn when to speak and when to keep quiet.
27~ let your life be observed, especially by yourself.
28~ Organization calms the noise.
29~ be careful little eyes what you see, sometimes something will stick in your head that you don’t want to remember.
30~ never dismiss a good piece of advice or insight just because of the source.

Military Brats - How I survived 11 different schools and 9 moves before I turned 18

2008-05-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

The world as I know it is a welcome and fun place where those who know how and are not afraid can roam and feel at home.

Hello world. I was a military brat... some one who has the unique lifestyle, with parent or parents who are in the military. My dad was in the Navy and we moved every 3 years so I grew up in many different states and countries. I loved the nomad, existence, and new adventure and seeing the world. Our family vacations could be the Grand Canyon one year and Big Ben the next. It was a great experience; however, I didn't do to well in school. The simple reason was because half the time I would be transferring over Christmas, and well they just finished teaching what I was supposed to learn... in October and I missed that at my last school, because they taught that in the spring. Grammar and spelling as well as math, were the worst to suffer. Plus always being the "new girl" I had to learn fast how to make friends. A skill I still have. This does not mean I was a "fast girl", just really good at finding friends and developing friendships. I really excelled in the creative side however; I loved sewing, doing anything with glue and scissors. Art and those projects where you draw a diagram or make a model, I always got an A.

Here is more of how I survived….

First .......I do feel "connected" I as a person even thought I don't have the traditional roots, most people feel necessary in order to feel at "home". I had great parents who taught me a great deal about how a family should function and support one another through good and bad times. We had a sense of adventure for each move and our new surroundings were full of friends to meet and experiences to be had.

Second..........My dad is gone now....his heart finally failed him. He is buried in Arlington right across the highway from the Pentagon. His last job in the military was at the Pentagon. I stood at his grave a few weeks after September 11, (yes I flew then), I went to Arlington and looked across into the face of the destruction caused by the crash there. I felt I understood in a new way, the dedication my father personified in his life work in the Navy.

Finally...... I can only feel a great deal of respect and pride for those who have served, those who have worked to protect our ideals and freedoms, and those Veterans who gave their ultimate for our country and our rights. It is personal for me; it is for my life too they served.

Wisdom ~ Part 3

2008-05-24T13:59:00.000-07:00

PART 3

20~ Live and let live, if possible.
21~ let your actions speak loudly, they are anyway!
22~ Let your yes be yes and No be no, you don’t have time to say yes then not follow thru… it hurts your reputation and those who depended upon you to be truthful
23~ Small portions – of everything!
24~ to look for and seek wisdom is a worthy goal.
25~ Read the good book everyday, there are worthy words there, and you will gain some wisdom.

Homefront May Day Give Away - This is how I got paid.

2008-05-22T19:53:00.000-07:00

If you are keeping up with my crazy life you will remember last week I was part of the May Day Give Away at the Homefront Team on Etsy. We had a lot of fun getting to know our customers, and promoting our shops.

Today I received the very best of payment, a Thank You note, from my winner. She had decided to receive $15 worth of merchandise from my shop.

This lovely image on one side and these lovely words on the other side, I couldn't have asked for a sweeter payday! You are very welcome, indeed.