Friday, February 12, 2010

Friday Feature

For today's Friday Feature I'm doing something different. In the North Texas area we had record snowfall yesterday, which resulted in a snow day, at least in my own school district. (Thank goodness, car rider duty was bad enough yesterday with just a couple of inches of snow and slush.) So today's feature is the snow. :)

Here was Booger yesterday afternoon around 4:15 tromping around the backyard. Look at his tiny footprints. :) At this point the snow was tummy high for him.



During the night we had a even more snow. The satellite kept going out because of snow buildup in the dish. Ben went out twice with a broom to brush it out, but eventually gave up until this morning. Our backyard is now just a sea of white. Our poor brush trees at the back are bowed over from the weight of the snow.


The snow is now as tall as Booger, so this morning he won't go out in it at all. He's sticking to the part of the yard that's in the shadow of the house, where there is about 6" wide of space not snowed on. It's so pretty outside!


And we apparently had a bunny friend earlier this morning. There are bunny tracks all over our driveway and front yard. :)

Friday, January 29, 2010

Friday Feature

Today's Friday Feature is Gaia Conceptions. Andrea uses certified organic and eco-friendly fabrics in all of her creations, and custom makes your order specifically to your size. That's great for a tall girl like me! :) She also hand dyes the fabric, so be sure to check out all of the color options.


I wanted to start today's feature with Gaia Conceptions' Secret Pocket Long Skirt. I actually have two of these, one in natural and one in avocado. Every time I wear one to school, I always seem to get compliments on them. And they've been great to wear this winter too, with a pair of leggings underneath to keep my legs nice and warm during car rider duty. (Secret Pocket Long Skirt, $72.00)

Another piece I always love to look at is The Market Dress. I love the 3/4 sleeve, which is great for cooler weather, but Andrea can make it with a different length of sleeve for you. (The Market Dress, $145.00)

One thing I love about Gaia Conceptions clothing, other than the made-to-order sizing, is the way the photographs show different ways you can layer her pieces. For example, I would never have thought to pair The Market Dress with a pair of pants, but they definitely look great together.

Friday, December 11, 2009

Friday Feature

Today's Friday Feature is Designs by Kari, who I met on a BNS thread on Etsy. Kari makes gorgeous jewelry. In fact, I've ordered from her a couple of times. :) Not only is everything in her shop beautiful to look at, she is currently running a 25% off sale! All you have to do is put "Happy Holidays" in the notes to seller at checkout to receive your refund.

Honestly, I had trouble picking just a few items to feature today, so I started with something I have a weakness for... Rings! Kari's Raspberry Coral ring is made with a raspberry coral cabochon on a silver plated adjustable base. I personally love buying adjustable rings, because I can make them smaller in the winter when my hands are cold and shrunken! :) (Raspberry Coral Ring, $10.00)


Another beautiful item in Kari's shop, her Rock of Love Necklace, is on sale! The focal bead is jasper, with fuscia, black and green all swirled together. I love how the green Czech glass beads pop and give the necklace sparkle. (Rock of Love Necklace, $22.40)

Friday, October 30, 2009

Friday Feature

For today's Friday Feature, I thought I'd do something a bit different. Since tomorrow is my very favorite holiday, today I'm featuring some wonderful handmade Halloween goodies! Enjoy!

Let's start off with an adorable lampwork pirate pig bead. There were so many beads in Gelly's shop, that it was hard to decide. But the pirate piggy's name made the choice for me... Take a look at Capn Jack Sparerib! (Capn Jack Sparerib lampwork bead, $30.00)



The doggie costumes in Spoiled Bratzwear's shop makes me wish
that my own doggie would wear a costume. But alas, Booger doesn't like to wear anything but his fur. :) But if I could get him to dress up, I'd totally buy him this ladybug costume. Maybe next year I'll get one for my brother-in-law's dog, Holly. I bet he'd *love* that idea. :) Ladybug, Ladybug, fly away home, $30.00)



No Halloween could be complete without a survival kit. The Canton Box Company carries just such a necessity. Vampire problem? Have no fear! (Just make sure you have your kit with you.) (Halloween Survival Kit, $33.00)

Friday, August 28, 2009

Friday Feature

Today's Friday Feature is Elemental Dragons!

At Elemental Dragons you can find precious polymer clay dragons from one of seven different clans, each with their very own story. One of my favorites from her shop is Hankie of the Water Clan. I just love his little ears! Hankie also has lovely wings and glow in the dark eyes. You know you want to give this little guy a home. (Hankie of the Water Clan Elemental Dragon, $15.00)


Friday, August 14, 2009

Friday Feature

Before we get any farther, let me just say that it's just about lunchtime here, and I'm starting to get hungry. That being said, today's Friday Feature is.... Heaven Baked Sweets! I just got a box of goodies from her the other day, and they're all fantastic.

The first cookie that drew me into her shop, and ultimately I ended up buying, are her Andes Creme de Menthe Cookies. How can you pass up a cookie with bits of Andes mint in them? If you know me at all, you know that mint/chocolate is one of my favorite flavor combinations (ahem...Mint Chocolate lip balm, anyone?) of all time. When I told Ben about the cookies we would get in the mail soon, he asked if I was planning on giving one to his dad. My father in law *loves* Andes mints. When we go to Olive Garden, he's always happy when the server brings a giant handful to the table at the end of the meal. (Andes Creme de Menthe Big Bite Cookies, $13.00 for one dozen)

Not sure if you want to commit to an entire dozen of cookies? Heaven Baked Sweets also offers sample sized orders of many of her goodies. I ordered a sample of her Pomegranate Cream Brownie Bites, and they're full of tart chocolatey goodness. Even Ben enjoyed the bite I let him have, and he's a majorly picky eater. :) (Sample Pomegranate Cream Brownie Bites, $4.25)

Friday, July 31, 2009

Friday Feature

Today's Friday Feature is Laura Bucci!

Not only is she a member of the EtsyVeg Team, but her handmade wallets, pouches, and cup cozies are wonderful! I recently bought a flat pouch and cup cozy, and they are lovely. (Laura currently has a special -- if you buy a flat pouch and cup cozy, you save $3.00!)

The flat pouches are great little clutches -- the perfect size to toss in my phone, car key, and flat wallet thing, along with a lip balm or two. And with so many great fabrics to choose from, you can't go wrong! I love retro-looking fabric, so it's not really a surprise that I bought Laura's Pink Garden Maze flat pouch. The pouch is stiff enough to hold its shape, and feels durable. (Pink Garden Maze Flat Pouch, $26.00)


Laura has a wide selection of cup cozies, but my personal favorites are the Save Our Planet cozies. Not only will they protect your hands from a hot paper cup, but they're also stylish with their "green" message. Laura offers three different Save Our Planet styles, so you can pick your favorite at checkout! (Save Our Planet Eco Cup Cozy, $12.00)

Friday, July 17, 2009

Friday Feature

Today's Friday Feature is.... Elfling Creations! Meri's shop features lovely fantasy-inspired art, jewelry, bags, and more!

The first item I just had to show you guys is her Dryad's Dwelling necklace or anklet. Now, I'm very much a water person, but I just love this earth-inspired hemp necklace. The pewter tree, the leaf charms both large and small, and all of the green beads remind me of a green meadow surrounded by giant oak trees. Honestly, it's going to be hard for me to pass this one up. (Dryad's Dwelling beaded hemp necklace or anklet, $19.00)



Meri at Elfling's Creations also crochets plushie dolls. Currently there are several in her shop, but Scinlaece is one of my favorites. She's a dress-up witch plushie, and I just love her little pointed hat. By the way, if you were wondering what kind of name is Scinlaece, it's Old English for "sorceress." Appropriate for a little witch plushie, don't you think? (Scinlaece Dress Up Fairy Witch Doll Plushie, $28.00)

Meri can also make a custom plushie for you. Click on the link to read all of the details for ordering a custom plushie doll. My favorite example in her shop is the Death plushie. I love how you can see all of his bones! (Made to Order, Fully Customizable 12-inch Crocheted Plushie Doll, starting at $60.00)


Friday, July 10, 2009

Friday Feature

Today's Friday Feature is... Lillian Skincare!

I'd been using one of the Neutrogena liquid foundations for years, but when I started to run low, I thought it would be a good time to try mineral makeup. Since I've never used mineral makeup before, I ordered the Starter Kit. What I thought was great about the starter kit is that you get to pick two shades of the mineral foundation. So if you're not quite sure which shade is best for you, you don't need to buy two of the full size foundations! The Starter Kit also comes with one shade of blush, and a sample of the finishing powder, along with all of the brushes you need to apply your new mineral makeup. I never wear blush, so I honestly didn't put a whole lot of thought into which shade to pick. But Angela apparently thought that the one I picked was too dark, because she included a little baggie sample of a shade lighter blush. And you know what, I think she was right. Thanks, Angela, for keeping me from looking like a clown! :)
It's been about a week since I started using my new Lillian Skincare mineral makeup, and I love it. It's so easy to apply, and looks great all day. When I told my mom about my switch to mineral makeup, she started going on and on about how wonderful mineral makeup is for your skin. But if you're still not sure, you can read about Lillian Skincare's mineral cosmetics here.

When my Starter Kit runs out, I'm definitely ordering a full size of the foundation and finishing powder, but I think I'll also try their mineral eye shadows. Those colors are just gorgeous!

Friday, July 3, 2009

Friday Feature

Last weekend when Ben and I went down to Austin, we went ahead and bought my birthday present, even thought it was a week and a half early. I had asked Ben for a mountain dulcimer, but since he had absolutely no idea what it was in the first place, I did some research and found exactly what I wanted. We could either have it shipped directly from McSpadden Dulcimers in Arkansas, or, since we were going to be in Austin anyway, pick it up at a folk music store, Fiddler's Green, that sold them.


This is the type of dulcimer that we bought. Cherry back, and redwood top -- it actually looks much darker in color than in the picture. While we were paying for my dulcimer, several other customers were admiring the pegs, discussing what high quality they are. I know I'm still a beginner dulcimer player, but the sound quality is very nice (and I did try out all of the dulcimers they had in stock). If you're looking to buy a mountain dulcimer for yourself (and why wouldn't you be?!?!), you can't go wrong with a McSpadden Dulcimer. Or if you're in the Austin, TX area, head on over to Fiddler's Green. The guy who helped me was very knowledgeable and helpful. If I lived in Austin, I'd definitely go back for lessons!

Friday, June 5, 2009

Friday Feature

Today's Friday Feature is Johnny's Sister. I recently bought a tote bag from her and absolutely love it. Not only is it big enough to hold all of my stuff, it also has pockets. Definitely a plus for me.


The bag I bought is similar to this one, but with different coloring. There are two pockets -- one interior and one exterior. And if you'd like to fasten your bag closed, it features a side button closure. (Dark Chocolate Yoga Bag, $65.00)



Johnny's Sister also makes unique jewelry. My favorite in her shop is the Spare Change Choker/Wrist Wrap. I love the brightness of the silk cord that the vintage Indian coin is strung on. (Spare Change Choker/Wrist Wrap, $18.00)



Friday, May 29, 2009

Friday Feature

Today's Friday Feature is Art Fire artisan Lady Mudwerkes! She makes lovely clay items including plaques and mirror frames. All of her work is inspired by nature, myth, or fantasy.

One of the first items in her studio that caught my eye was her Moon Lady Mirror Frame. The Moon Lady's face emerges from a slivery crescent moon, with her hair billowing around where the mirror will go. Beautifully serene. (Moon Lady Mirror Frame, $165.00)


While Lady Mudwerkes has a couple Tree of Life tiles in her studio, this one is my favorite. Peeking through the gnarled branches you can see the moon in each of her phases. This tile can be displayed as a wall hanging or on an easel. (Tree of Life Tile, $30.00)


Don't forget, our very first Art Fire Treasure Hunt is underway tomorrow! Check back tomorrow for more info!

Friday, May 15, 2009

Friday Feature

Today's Friday Feature is The Holy Bead! Whatever your faith, you can find prayer beads for you at The Holy Bead. I recently bought a strand of prayer beads from her, and they are beautiful! Plus, with every purchase you make at The Holy Bead, you'll receive a free strand of love beads!

This particular strand of prayer beads is an open strand like the one I bought for myself. The wooden, jasper, and quartz beads celebrate all that is Mother Nature. (Earthtones Prayer Rope, $23.00)

Friday, May 8, 2009

Friday Feature

Today's Friday Feature is Mea Culpa Body and Bath. I'll start with a product of hers that I have bought and loved, her shampoo and conditioner. I know, I know, it's like I have a weird hair fetish or something. (Really, I don't!) I love supporting handmade, and love trying products from other bath and body makers that I don't personally make (like shampoo). So there.

Anyway, her shampoo is great. You know how I told you recently that my hair is picky? Well, it happens to enjoy trading off with the shampoo bar I mentioned last week. I have the Champa scent in the shower, but her Lolita shampoo and conditioner set sounds divine, too. (shampoo and conditioner set, $16.99)


The next time I get a tattoo, I'll definitely give her tattoo balm a try. She uses only butters, oils, and essential oils in the balm, all of which are great for letting your skin heal naturally. Just put a layer of the tattoo balm over your new tattoo, and gently massage in. (tattoo balm, $5.00)


Friday, March 20, 2009

Friday Feature

Drum roll please.... Today's Friday Feature is mirthreverence! Mirth & Reverence offers OOAK jewelry, altar dolls, and photography. Here are a few of my favorite items in Kate and Jamie's shop.

Kate and Jamie offer many gorgeous altar dolls in their shop, but their Hekate doll is one I keep going back to just to look at it. The doll they used as a base is Elphaba from Wicked. Very appropriate, I think, to become a representation of Hekate, who was called the Queen of the Witches. What I'm always impressed by when I browse through Mirth & Reverence is the detail work on every doll. Not only did they clothe her the way you would imagine her to look, but she has beads snaking around her arms (snakes are one symbol of the Greek goddess) and bare feet that appear dusty from all of her travels. Even the stand she comes with is detailed--they painted it to be a crossroads, another of Hekate's symbols. These altar dolls are definitely worth every penny. (Hekate, $350.00)

I had a really difficult time choosing one piece of their jewelry to feature. They're all beautiful, so when you browse through Mirth & Reverence, definitely go through all of the jewelry. The Dream Castle necklace is a two-strand necklace of tiny seed beads and accented with Snowflake Obsidian. My first thought when I looked at this necklace was that it would look great wrapped to make a bracelet. Lo and behold, when I read the description, they suggest the very same thing! :) (Dream Castle, $15.00)

Last summer Ben and I took a trip to San Francisco to attend his college friend's wedding. While we were there we took a guided trip up to Muir Woods. On the way up we kept hearing about all of the wildlife we might see in the woods. When we arrived, we all went our separate ways and met back at the bus later. Other people on the bus saw deer, but we sure didn't! So when I saw this photograph in Mirth & Reverence's shop, I knew I had to include it here. I sure do wish I could've seen her in person! (Doe in Muir Woods, $15.00)


Saturday, March 7, 2009

Friday Feature.... on Saturday?

Yes, I know today is Saturday and not Friday. Yesterday I got home from school around 5:00, showered, and went to Ben's cousin's house to babysit her little toddler. By the time I came back home just before 11:00, I pretty much went straight to bed. Fridays are always so tiring!!! So here I am on a Saturday afternoon writing up my usual Friday Feature. Oh well, better late than never, right?

Before we get to Saturday's Friday Feature, you should take a gander at an Etsy Treasury that my cuticle balm is currently in. This treasury is full of great items from some very nice sellers I've spoken with on a Buy and Stay thread on Etsy. In fact, I've sold so many cuticle balms to people on that thread that I need to make another batch of it this weekend! Woo hoo!

Alright, on to our regularly scheduled programming. Today's Featured Seller is YouniquelyChic. She has the most beautiful Swarovski crystal jewelry in her shop! I've been eyeing several of her earrings and necklaces, but I really need to wait a week or two... I have to admit I've gone on a bit of a shopping spree on Etsy lately... Anyway, here are a couple of my favorites from her shop!









Friday, February 27, 2009

Friday Feature

Welcome to my weekly Friday Feature! Tonight I'm featuring another member of the Etsyveg Team, strawhousebooks, who specializes in handbound journals, albums, and memory boxes. The fabric she uses is chosen by its animal-friendly properties. Yay!

I have a weakness for anything paisley, so here is her Paisley Hand Bound Journal. Not only is the outside pretty in paisley, but the inside pages are beautiful too. Enjoy!


Friday, February 20, 2009

Friday Feature

Be sure to stop by the EtsyVeg Team blog. Not only will you see my sugar scrub included in the team treasury, but you can take a look at all of the other gorgeous items there. And trust me, they are beautiful!

For today's regular installment of Friday Feature, I would like to present intergalacticrose! She's a member of the EtsyVeg Team, and all of her products are completely vegan.




Isn't this custom-designed faerie skirt cute? Let her know what colors you want on it, and your measurements, and she'll sew you up your own customized skirt. This beautiful skirt has a drawstring waist, which I personally am a fan of on skirts!


Who doesn't love an Ewok? I know I do! This appliqued hoodie reminds me of a shih-tsu I knew once. His fur was always trimmed short, and his little face looked just like Wicket. Of course, that was his name too. :)

Friday, January 30, 2009

Friday Feature

Hi everyone! Sorry I haven't been posting any new blogs lately. I've been sick with the flu, still am actually, and it just has made me feel so run down that I get tired from doing the simplest things. The doctor says I should be feeling better by the end of the weekend, which is great because I've been in the mood to make soap for the longest time, but haven't been able to.

But I did want to let everyone know that my Cuticle Balm has been featured in a Treasury on Etsy. Woo hoo! Go check it out, there are really nice items there to look at.

Now onto my regularly scheduled Friday Feature: The Cupcake Mint! Who doesn't love a good cupcake, especially around Valentine's Day? Everything in her shop is made to order, so you can even order in advance and have your cupcakes sent to you on a certain date. How convenient is that? Here are a couple of my favorites from her shop (and let me tell you, this was a hard pick...they all look so yummy!). You'd never guess by looking at them that they're all dairy free too!


These chocolate ganache dipped mini cupcakes are what first brought me to The Cupcake Mint. If frosted cupcakes are delicious, chocolate-dipped cupcakes are even better. This set of six mini cupcakes comes in a cute heart-shaped tin, and a hand-written valentine. Just put your valentine message in your comments to seller at check out, and they'll get you all taken care of!


What could be better than a mint chocolate cupcake? I love the combination of sweet chocolate with that refreshing zing of peppermint. Plus, the little green leaf on top is just too cute. They send the cupcakes unfrosted, so you can be creative and decorate them yourself. Fun!

Friday, January 23, 2009

Friday Feature

Welcome to my first Friday Feature! Drop by every Friday for a new blog featuring Etsy or Art Fire artists.

Today's Friday Featured artist is shadesongs. She has a shop *full* of beautiful jewelry. Here are two of my favorites from her shop:



This gorgeous necklace and earring set shows off elegant handmade lampwork beads. I think the black and white colored beads on the sterling silver chain make these look so elegant.




Shadesongs' Ouija board pendant brought a smile to my face when I saw it. I know I still have one of those in a closet. When I was in high school, some of my girlfriends tried to use one, but all we accomplished was to accuse each other of moving it. It was still fun, though!

Go check out shadesongs' Etsy shop, she has even more wonderful items to look at!