Mary Kay's Handmade Mother of the Bride Jewelry Inspiration

In the previous post on Lauren's Handmade Wedding Jewelry Details, I shared the details and inspiration for the Bridesmaids Jewelry and Maids of Honor Jewelry. This particular custom wedding jewelry group was large enough that it needed to be broken down into various posts. But, that works perfectly because then I get to individually highlight the jewelry and design details of both the Bridesmaids, as well as, the Mother of the Bride.

When Mary Kay and I first communicated, she provided me some details on her dress and also said she would be wearing her mothers' diamond ring and earrings (which were in white gold). She wasn't sure if she should have silver or gold custom jewelry created to coordinate with the white gold heirloom jewelry.

This was going to be the first time I've created handmade beaded jewelry to coordinate with existing fine jewelry pieces. To be sure I created pieces that would be perfectly paired, I asked for pictures, of both the dress and the heirloom jewelry -and it's a good thing I did.

It just so happened the diamond ring design was in the currently popular Halo style. While searching for those just right components I love to add to my jewelry designs, I happened across a clasp that I felt would be a perfect pairing to the ring.

Mary Kay's Mother of the Bride Jewelry would be designed around two elements: her dress and her mother's diamond ring and earrings. The dress was a combination of both soft chiffon and rich lace in a champagne color. I suggested Mary Kay go with the same pearl color that the wedding party jewelry was being designed with because: (1) it would complement the fact that she, as the Mother of the Bride, was connected to the bridal party, (2) because it appeared her dress was in the same color family and (3) the chiffon top of her dress was a direct complement to the chiffon bridal party dress.

Although I had seen a picture of her dress, I asked for a sample of the fabric just to be sure we'd chosen the right Swarovski Pearl color (plus I had a secret design idea brewing in my head....). The custom pieces Mary Kay requested were a crystal and pearl bracelet, hair pins and a brooch.

My goal with the beaded bracelet was to create a design that she could easily wear after the wedding, whether with casual or formal wear. It was also in my plan to incorporate both gold and silver into the bracelet design. This custom jewelry order will also be the first where I've been asked for hair pins (bobby pins) and a brooch!

Stay tuned to see how the jewelry turned out......

Lauren's Handmade Wedding Jewelry Details

In the Spring of this year, one of my favorite customers contacted me and I was so thrilled to hear from her and to hear the good news. Mary Kay's daughter, Lauren, was getting married! Both her and her daughter wanted to explore handmade wedding jewelry options for two Maids of Honor, three Bridesmaids and the Mother of the Bride.

I've worked with Mary Kay many times over the past eight years for gemstone jewelry, as well as, custom handmade jewelry. I was so excited to be able to work with her again and to be a part of Lauren's, wedding planning. Working with Brides is so much fun. I love hearing about all the wedding details!

bridesmaids gown source
artist's rendition hand sketched necklace

Bridal Party Wedding details:

• 2 Maids of Honor
• 3 Bridesmaids
• Jewelry sets with necklaces and earrings
• Maids of Honor jewelry sets would be slightly different than Bridesmaids
• Allure Bridals chiffon dress #1369 in burgundy (shown above in champagne)
• Bridal party would be wearing nude shoes
• White Calla Lilly flowers
• Groomsmen will be in slate blue

While out shopping together, Lauren had found a necklace style that she really loved and wanted to use as inspiration for her custom bridesmaids jewelry. I had my close and dear friend, Barb Deuel of Bronson Hill Art and Photography create an inspiration sketch of that very necklace (shown above). Thank you Barb!!

When the three of us met, I presented Lauren with a narrowed down selection of Swarovski Crystals and Pearls that I felt best fit her wedding vision. We discussed various design elements and bead setups that would most closely resemble the inspiration necklace that Lauren had seen. The final detail was for Lauren to decide if she wanted gold or silver metal. With her wedding colors of champagne and burgundy, she decided on gold metal.

My only disappointment with the creation of these custom wedding jewelry pieces was that Swarovski did not have a larger selection of burgundy crystals. But, that didn't stop this creative mind!

There were so many beautiful details put into the design of Lauren's Wedding Jewelry that I am going to be breaking them up into separate posts.

Enjoying the Beauty of Autumn and Handmade Crafts

This past weekend I enjoyed not only the company of a good friend but also the beauty of autumn, in what can only be described as the perfect place for leaf peeping -Letchworth State Park in Castile, New York.

Columbus Day weekend is traditionally when the annual Arts and Crafts Show is held at Letchworth. It's a great event to kick start your holiday shopping with over 300 vendors. We should have left a little earlier for this short trip because we were only there a couple of hours and didn't even get to see all the vendors. Now that's a shame! Lol.
.

It's nice sometimes to be a shopper at a craft show, rather than a vendor. I love to see all the great handmade items these talented artists create. The crafts are amazing and I truly love that they are all handcrafted, it makes any purchase I do make even better.

Along my way, I would grab the business card of the artisans that I wanted to look up later. Here's my filtered list of interesting artisans to check out:

• Adorable black cat artwork from The Cranky Cat Collection by Cynthia Schmidt. I just love that fluffy black cat!!.
• Felted purses, cowls and mittens from recycled materials from Trendy Wendy Handbags by Wendy Stout, In fact, I did purchase a pair of super warm wool mittens from Wendy. Although my skin can't handle wool to well, the beauty of these mittens were the wool was on the outside and soft, fleece was the inside of the mitten -perfect!
• Laura Regatuso of Snowflakes and Flowers creates absolutely stunning artwork and crafts using the method of quilling. Her intricate designs are just amazing! I'll be getting in touch with her as I saw a few things I wanted to get as Christmas gifts. Update: Since this introduction, I had contacted Laura about a product I wished to purchase and unfortunately, have learned their customer service is not so great. I've decided not to purchase from them.
• There were some fabulous glass artists, as well. But sadly, I didn't grab their business card and wish I did because they had beautiful glass pumpkins (and I love pumpkins!).

It was a day well spent with a great friend and we closed the day with a meal from my fav restaurant near her house -actually it was breakfast for dinner. Does anyone else do this (eat breakfast for dinner)?

Today I Wear Gray and Say Goodbye

This post has absolutely nothing to do with jewelry and as a rule, I tend not to talk about too many personal things. But I thought maybe writing about our sweet kitty would help to heal from this great loss I feel. And maybe it would help someone else who might have a similar situation.

On September 30, 2014 I had to say goodbye to my beloved Sweetie Pie. He was still so young at only 10 years old. My husband and I adopted both him and his brother (Cookie Toe) from a local shelter. We were told they had found their way there, with their mom, when their previous owners turned them in. If I recall correctly it was because they had too many pets? Neither were neutered and sadly, it looked like their mom was pregnant again.

We had gone to the local shelter every weekend for a number of weeks looking for the cat who would best fit in our home. One the day we made the decision to adopt these two brothers, it was Cookie Toe who had stuck his paw through the cage wires to grab my hair..and ultimately get my attention.

The beauty of these two were they looked almost exactly alike except Sweetie Pie is gray and his brother, Cookie Toe is all black. They both have this little white patch on their chests. They sat in their cage together with their mom in the cage next to them. While Cookie Toe was meowing at me and not getting my attention, he then decided to grab my hair. When I looked up to pet him, I saw this brother Sweetie Pie, sitting in the litter box (that was a silly place to decide to lay). I said to Cookie Toe, "are you my baby"? And as if on cue, he meowed right back while looking me directly in the eyes.

It was quite the decision to make because we were initially only looking to adopt one cat. But, looking at the both of them, we knew, if we only adopted one and the other was not adopted....well, you know the possibility. So, that day we completed our paperwork to adopt both!

There are so many stories I can share of the goofy Sweetie Pie, like how he would bounce along the floor like a rocking horse -which was his way to telling you to play with him, or how you could use the yellow feather on the rod and get him jumping for it at heights that were unbelievable. He also had this fascination with a pair of my fun slipper socks that had small stuffed frog faces on them. One day one of the socks turned up missing. Come to find out Sweetie Pie decided he liked the frog so he took the sock as his toy! From that day forward I just cut off the frog faces and gave both to him as a toy. He loved those frogs! He would carry them all around the house in his mouth! Silly Sweetie Pie! :-)

Sadly in 2012, Sweetie Pie was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma (intestinal cancer). We were devastated. Prior to the diagnosis his weight had gone down to just a little more than 5 pounds. It pained us greatly to see him suffering. Our fantastic veterinarian performed surgery to remove the mass that had grown at the intersection of his esophagus and intestine -which had prevented food from getting to his stomach. After surgery she educated us on his prognosis.

We were told this type of cancer in cats was not a good one. Ultimately, he would be on borrowed time. There was the option to do radiation therapy but he would have to endure the discomfort of the therapy and there were no statistics that showed this therapy worked, for this type of cancer. So, we opted to not do the therapy and let him enjoy the last months or years of his life.

Sweetie Pie's recovery from the surgery was absolutely phenomenal. He went back up to a healthy weight, his spunky, quirky, goofy personality was back. He was running around playing and enjoying life to the fullest! Over time, he did gain a little too much weight. We think he was making up for lost time. :-)

But, something changed around early Spring, mid-Summer this year. Throughout this time and into Autumn, I noticed his weight shifted...it just didn't look right. It looked like he had a football, laying sideways, in his mid-section.

I took him in just two days ago because of his weight, he had refused food since late last week and overall he just looked unhappy. He had an x-ray done and it was discovered he had a lot of fluid in his stomach (hence the odd shaped weight he was carrying), as well as, some fluid in his lungs. He also had a low temperature and was slightly anemic. I was heartbroken.

An ultrasound was scheduled for the next day to see what was causing the fluid buildup. However, I spent that evening researching the information I was given and I also spent the next day with him and had the opportunity to really watch him. It was very apparent what we really needed to do.

At the ultrasound appointment, we declined that service but asked that he be re-checked by a vet because I had noticed his breathing was really shallow and labored, he seemed unresponsive to what was going on around him, he was even more wobbly on his feet and more.

While the vet talked to us, Sweetie Pie was given a warming bed and some tender loving care. Armed with additional information about how sick he was, his heart was weak, his low temp was dangerously low...we made the heartbreaking decision to help Sweetie Pie to Rainbow Bridge so he didn't suffer anymore. :-(

I've cried for two days and know that time heals all wounds. At this time I am still so immensely sad, however, I will say CANCER SUCKS!!

Goodbye my sweet, sweet, Sweetie Pie. We LOVE YOU dearly. We hope you are running around and playing with your kitty friends, brothers and sisters.

And thank you, in advance, to all the readers who have chosen to allow me this moment of sadness on the blog and to offer words of comfort. Hug your little fur-babies a little tighter today -and everyday.

The Polar Vortex of Winter 2014

Polar Vortex of January 2014

They say yesterday (January 6, 2014) was the most depressing day of the new year. Hmmm, I might have to concur with that. Here we are in the brand new year and I'm already fighting time. I dream of being able to get a good (truly) dedicated day in at the jewelry bench. Ugh. So many ideas -so little time in a day to accomplish them.

What makes matters worse is today was a snow day off from school for the kiddos -great for them -not so great for Crystal Allure Jewelry. We are actually in the middle of what meteorologists are calling a polar vortex. Sounds cold, right?! Well, it is -in fact, bitter cold!

I'm hearing of -55 degrees in some places -ouch! Right now it is 3 degrees here (and this is a huge improvement from last night), but it feels like -16 degrees thanks to the wind. BRrrr! After seeing some of the amazing polar photos of today, the one I took doesn't seem to look as 'polar' as it felt trying to snap it. But let me reassure you, the snow was just whipping around like I was in a snow globe. The picture above is probably a view that is quite familiar. When trying to get the best winter shot, I like to venture out in the cold...no further than the edge of my garage door!

My snuggly little girl, WARM in her bed. Zzzzzz...

All this polar weather happening around the world makes my heart break for any pet that has been left outside. And, if I may, let me be frank here -if you have a pet and didn't bring them in, then in my humble opinion, you are intentionally abusing them. I'll even eat my words if you say otherwise and agree to spend the same amount of time outside with the same level of clothing coverage as pets have fur.

I just don't understand it even on a good weather day. I mean why did you get a pet to begin with? Have some respect and compassion for your pets today -PLEASE bring them indoors!!

And take that extra 5 minutes to stop your car and try to help an animal you see outside in this ghastly weather we're having. More importantly, if you see any animal outside, call 911 and alert the police.

The picture above is my sweet little girl all snuggly and warm in her bed with her blankie. This is how ALL pets should be riding out this cold weather. Wouldn't you agree?

If I had to find a bright side to this bitter cold weather it would be that it has inspired more than a few new handmade Winter Beaded Jewelry designs!

Stay warm....and snuggle with your pets. :-)

What To Do. What To Do.



Our dog Lucy, enjoying a warm sunny day. What does she
have to do with this blog post? Nothing. But, it's the only
picture I could find to share. ;-)

Not having a working computer, these days, is like not having a working right arm (and maybe left too!). How does one get along without it?!

I shouldn't really talk. In the late 90s, I did own a pager because of my brothers' health. But, after he passed I got rid of the pager and didn't have any method of E- contact until, oh, 2009-ish? Amazing. I know this -now.

Today, I'm so enamoured with technology that I've surpassed my techy husband in knowledge and gadgets.

Our daily lives have become so entangled with computers that when they break, we're kinda lost. Or at least, I am lost. lol. Is it possible to have a love affair with a computer?

But, I will not be defeated. I've got the laptop covered (temporarily). My data and important files...that remains to be seen. (crossing fingers, crossing fingers...)

With a week of summer vacation over, I'm ready for another vacation. :-)

I had activities planned all last week. In fact, I even planned a two day garage sale. I used to pull together an annual charity yard sale many, many years ago. It was tedious work, to say the least! For the first few years, we received so many donations that we would have to hold weekend long sales for an entire month! But, it was worth it.

Today, I could do without having one. Yet, I had accumulated some items and well, my husband, wanted his basement space back. I'm okay with that since I don't like clutter. I'm forever organizing and clearing out. My motto growing up: everything has a place and for every place there is a thing. Too bad my studio doesn't adhere to this motto.

I invited my second oldest niece to help out and offered her a percentage of the sales for her efforts. I also took this time with her to teach her some marketing tips. Both days went well. The first day, the weather was way to humid but the second day, it stormed in the morning. I love me a good rain storm. Refreshing.

Anyhow, the marketing tips payed off. The second day two women came in, loved the prices we were offering and pretty much cleared us out, just a 1/2 hour before closing. I mean this almost literally. I think I only packed up three copy paper boxes to donate. In my experience, that's a successful sale!

Now, to clarify. I am not a marketer by profession. But, all the years of running my own business has forced me to learn a thing or two about marketing. Hint to my young readers: consider taking a class or two in marketing. My prediction: with the internet becoming what it is, it only makes sense that in years to come, many small and large businesses will need tech savvy peeps to market their online presence. These businesses will expect to quantify those efforts in their bottom line profits. It will become a competitive job career, for sure.

Beyond the garage sale, there were daily kids activities that included the little one signing up for and getting her FIRST library card! Yea!

With vacation over, I think it's time to finally put in the ground that lavender plant I purchased four days ago...

As I sit here typing this blog post. My faithful little dog is right next to me, sleeping.....and snoring!

I've Got Nothin'

I had two great blog posts to share and as of right now, I've got nothin'. No. Really. It's true.

Tonight I logged onto my laptop, was prepping the images for the blog, and BAM! it crashes. No blue screen or anything like that. But, after the wave of horror flowed through my body, I came to the realization I just might not be able to recover much (or any) of my data. Ahhhhhhhh!

In an attempt to be optimistic, I guess I really won't know until I get it to the "computer doctor". And I'm hoping for a full and successful recovery. (cross your fingers with me) Huh. Seems life took it literally when I said I was taking some down time. Hey, life, I meant one day!

I'm over summer vacation. I don't have a working computer (and might have just single-handedly crashed my business...which I'm sure my competitors are jumping for joy over this). I've got someone/something just stuck. in. my. head. And next week I have to face someone who causes me a great deal of stress.

Sounds like it's time for a girls night out. Without our laptops! (got that covered)

Life, boring -never! But, no worries. I always overcome any challenges thrown my way. Just might need to spend some time in the pool as I analyze and ponder how/what to post until my laptop is fixed.

Will I still be blogging? Absolutely! You just might not see the posts all jazzed up with my images and posting frequency might not be the regular schedule for the next few days. But, bear with me...

Swarovski Crystal Fireworks

Celebrating the 4th of July comes with flags; colorful fireworks; anything and everything that can be red, white and blue; spending time with family; sparklers; the list goes on.

So, in my show of support, I'm dedicating this blog post to the red, white and blue sparkling fireworks that only Swarovski Crystals can give.

Two of my favs: RED roses and Swarovski Crystal stems

Gotta have it: WHITE Swarovski Crystal encrusted bra.
Oh, the stories I could tell you about when I worked at Victoria's Secret! 

Love and Passion at its' finest: Titanic's symbolic Swarovski Crystal
BLUE Heart of the Ocean Necklace.

You can check out more of my sparkling obsessions at Behind the Designs on Pinterest. And don't miss my Sparkling Thoughts board. My fav quote: I get distracted by shiny things!

I'll be taking some time myself to enjoy a little downtime on the 4th. Even though we all know there are no vacation days for mommies. :-)

Please have a safe, FUN and sparkling 4th of July 2012!

What's Old is New Again -And Adorable to Boot!

An adorable ballerina chair for an
adorable little girl.

It may take me for.ev.er to get a project finished. But, when it's finally done -it's perfect!

This adorable chair did not look like this when I found it. I just happened to be walking the dog one day and I came across this vintage chair, just sitting at the curb. The owners of it had just had a weekend yard sale but I guess it didn't sell, or they just didn't want it anymore.

I quickly decided I could make it beautiful and it would be perfect for my little one's pink ballerina room. I made the decision that if the chair was still at the curb on my return walk back that I'd grab it. Lucky for me, it was. So, chair in one hand, dog leash in the other. I trounced home.

To coordinate with her furniture, it was painted white. I replaced the seat board, padding and added new fabric. What the picture does not capture, in the fabric, is the hint of sparkle (it's gotta have sparkle!).

I will not lie here, this project is well over a year old, but I've done my best to detail the transformation below.

Original chair. Husband was a little too efficient and had already sanded it down.
But, the wood color was a deep reddish-brown.
This first picture highlights the 1st layer of heavy needlepoint fabric on the chair.

Just another shot of the original chair at a different angle.
This second picture highlights the 2nd layer of heavy needlpoint fabric on the chair.
Both fabrics were durable and featured rose patterns.

A close up of the carved rose.

Shot of manufacturer tags showing its' origination from
Sibley, Lindsey & Curr Co.

I did some research to try and find out how old this chair was, but wasn't very successful. Sibley's, was a Rochester, New York-based department store chain with stores located exclusively in the state of New York. The Sibley Building was located on the northeast corner of East Main Street and Clinton Avenue. Sibley's was acquired by May Department stores in 1986.

Sibley's was a part of my childhood and I guess you could say, Sibley's for me, is probably like what Macy's is for others. In fact, one of my first few jobs was at Sibley's Optical. That job started a nearly 10 year career in the optical field.

When this picture was taken, the lighting was very poor. That combined with the gross-ness
of the padding itself, I decided to spare you the details and test my photoshop skills
by creating a black and white image. What you can't see here is the seat board was actually all
warped and ruined, so that had to be replaced.

After a good sanding, I applied two coats of Rust-Oleum Painters Touch,
Ultra Cover 2x Coverage, white primer.

And once again, the NEW re-finished chair. It's amazing what a new coat of paint can do
for a project. Double points because my little one loves my vision (her new chair)!

Since it took me so long to finish this project and with most of the materials being collected throughout the year, I don't have the exact details anymore. But, here's my best breakdown of it:

Chair = FREE  (score!!)

2 cans of white primer = ~ $8.00

2 cans of white pearlized paint = ~ $8.00

New chair padding = ~ $3.00

Ballerina fabric = ~ $6.50

The good news is I still have some primer, paint and fabric left over, so I can apply those to other projects. I have plans to make some coordinating pillows with the extra fabric. This ought to take a few years since I don't know much about sewing.

And "the plan" is to sand down and re-finish a little desk we already had at the house that goes perfectly with this chair. I say it's "the plan" because right now, I have four other paint projects to do (one of which includes our main hallway), two reupholster projects and a slew of miscellaneous little projects.

So many ideas. So little time.

I shared this project with:

Let Summer Begin: Long Island Iced Crystal Gemstone Bracelet

First week of camp: friends and initiation (?)!

For so many kids, summer brings visions of carefree days, friends, swimming, having fun, ice cream and so much more.

Recently a good friend asked me if I had any plans for the summer. While thinking, I mumbled something about surviving it. :-)

We learn something new everyday, right? With the first week of summer camp over, lesson #1:

Summer camp = one tired little girl!

Each day is filled with fun and activities. We get a full summer schedule, in advance, and many of the activities the little one will be doing at day camp are the very things I had hoped to do with her, over the summer. Lesson #2:

Responsibility = is no fun!

The first week of camp included a camp t-shirt and creating her first friendship bracelets. She has such a big heart. The first two she made she, well, gave to her friend! Guess that's the point of them, right?! My version of a bracelet celebrating friends:

Long Island Iced Crystal Gemstone Beaded Bracelet (B183)

Hmmm...interesting....they all have sterling silver cocktail charms! Shown above is Long Island Iced Tea Onyx Carnelian Gemstone Crystal Charm Beaded Bracelet (B183). Most of my girl friend cocktail charm "friendship" bracelets don't stay in stock very long and the ladies demand more and more each year.

About the design:
Friendship was the inspiration behind this handmade beaded bracelet. Friends are an important part of our lives and this bracelet celebrates special girlfriends and fond memories of a girls night out. After a long day at work, isn't it fun to just get out with the girls, relax and have a tasty cocktail?! This irresistibly fun cocktail charm bracelet features Swarovski Crystal, carnelian gemstone, onyx gemstone, sterling silver Bali and a long island iced tea charm. Finished with our signature jewelry tag. Measures 7-3/4".

Oh yes...the topic is summer camp. My philosophy: If she has a good, safe day, I'm okay with that. By the third day, though, sure enough, she took a tumble. But, nothing three bandaids (2 purple, 1 regular) couldn't fix. If she were a cat, she'd have landed on her feet, right?! Instead, her feet are what got in the way.

I don't think I could send her off to camp -as in, over night, away camp -no way! My brother had actually gone off to camp when he was little. I was jealous that I couldn't go but was happy he had the experience and it was a camp that understood his health needs (and didn't turn him away because of it). Only once or twice did we have to pick him up because of difficulty breathing.

In thinking about him, I asked the little one if she knew what "away" camp was (explained it a little) and she said she did. I told her when kids go off to camp they often write their parents letters. So, for fun, I asked her what she would write back to us (if she was at "away camp"). Here's her response:

Dear mom and dad,
I miss you. Can you bring me your self? Oh, and some cookies too.
Love, N

We've got some new memories to put in our book and the little one is anxious, so off I go...

Prevent Animal Cruelty Orange Paw Crystal Anklet (A118)

June is National Adopt A Shelter Cat Awareness Month.

Personally, I believe pet adoption should be your first option. All my pets have been rescues, even as a child. And each one has brought happiness and something unique to my life.

There are many health benefits of pet ownership*, pets can decrease your:

• Blood pressure
• Cholesterol levels
• Triglyceride levels
• Feelings of loneliness

They can also increase your:

• Opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities
• Opportunities for socialization

Many shelters are running adoption specials this month, especially on cats. But, please, before you adopt, make sure you can make the full commitment of pet ownership and will honestly make the commitment.

Orange Prevent Animal Cruelty Awareness Anklet (A118)

Crystal Red Aventurine Gemstone Beaded Anklet

In January 2010, I introduced a new collection of Swarovski Crystal Animal Awareness Bracelets to support spaying-neutering your pet to help reduce pet overpopulation, prevention of animal abuse and the prosecution of abusers. A percentage of the proceeds is donated to applicable charities and/or programs.

Recently added to this collection is the Prevent Animal Cruelty Orange Paw Crystal Awareness Anklet (A118), designed with orange crystals and red aventurine gemstone beads (the awareness color representing prevention of animal cruelty). With this 10-1/2" beaded anklet, not only are you raising awareness but you will also be a fashionista!

Pantone has named Tangerine Tango (orange) as the color of the year (2012) and orange is also the nationally recognized color for raising awareness of Animal Abuse and Cruelty.

Help save an animal's life and reap all the benefits of pet ownership -adopt a shelter cat (or pet) today!

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I wanted to take this opportunity to introduce two of our rescue shelter cats. Meet Doodie and Ralphie (aka Mushie Man).

As with all pets, ours were named for their personalities. Doodie, a domestic short-haired tiger cat, was actually named Lucky and indeed he was. He was scheduled to be euthanized but somehow got out of his cage and hide in a dog's cage for three days. When the shelter found him, they felt he was special and they contacted a no-kill shelter to take him in.

Doodie got his name from, well, his stomach problems. When he was little...yeah...it wasn't pretty. But, he fought against the odds and today he is a little stinker (and I mean that in a cute way!).

Ralphie is our black and white tuxedo cat. He was actually already in a no-kill shelter when we adopted him and he was raised from kittenhood by the woman we adopted him from. For the record, tuxedo cats, their breed usually means they will have weight issues, so they take a little extra care to not become obese. In the picture below, he just looks much bigger because he is laying next to petite Doodie. He gets his nickname, Mushie Man, because he's such a lover!

Doodie (far left); Doodie and Ralphie

In the first picture, Doodie looks like he's getting his inner crank on. Nice face! In the second picture, my second oldest niece said it looked like Doodie was, well, passing gas. Is this interpretation something similar to 'what shape is that cloud'? And well, given his stomach issues, he just may have!

I'm a little late in sharing this important blog post and introducing you to some of our sweet adopted cats. It's been a busy week and after today's work day, seemed an appropriate post to show the value of animals and pets. And I must admit, my mind has been elsewhere, seems like for weeks, but my focus kind of got away from me this week. But, thanks to my friends and a few of my readers for the kick nudge (in the email)!

*http://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/health_benefits.htm

Humorous Parenting

Ballerina box holding one school year of paperwork

With school having ended, I spent some time filtering through the little one's paperwork (what to keep, what to save). It is A-mazing what waste one child could generate.

She has a ballerina box that we have her put all her school work into each day she comes home from school. The box dimensions are 16-1/2" (long) x 14" (wide) x 10" (deep). This box was full from just one school year and to be honest, I had already filtered out some of her papers as she brought them home!

We try to have her be more aware of how much paper she uses (trees provide clean air and the more paper we use, the more trees that have to be cut down, etc., etc.). But, sometimes you just can't curb creativity, I guess. :-)

While I was doing this paper cleansing, the little one decided she was going to work with me in her playroom and began compiling handwritten notes -that later I learned she taped all over the house.

One of the notes, she taped on the basement door. Our cats' hard food bowls are on the landing of the basement stairs. One of her daily responsibilities is to make sure the food bowls are full.

On this particular day, it was a hectic day and she forgot to check the bowls when we got home. My husband also happened to get home late on this day and she was already in bed for the night.

Knowing what the note said, I tell him there's a note for him on the basement door. He reads the note, "the cast needs privasye" (in kids' speak it really says, "the cats need privacy").

My husband assesses things and writes her a note back.

It reads, "The cats need food!" and tapes it to the door. The next morning she reads it and giving us the most cute girl smirk she could work, she smiles coyly, apologizes and proceeds to fill the bowls. :-)

I'm not sure what her goal was with the note, but I don't think she believed we'd write her a note back or that she'd get a response. Either way, it was way to funny!

Now, onto jewelry related news (the main purpose of the blog). I've been working with some fantastic ladies and will have a few custom beaded jewelry designs to share with you soon.

One custom request is for a couple of pulmonary fibrosis awareness bracelets and the other is for an aplastic anemia awareness bracelet.

Stay tuned....

What Lingers...Beneath The Surface

Sand Piper on Sanibel Island, Florida
November 2001

Each time I had vacationed on Sanibel Island, it was usually for a week at a time. But, I saw very little of the island because I spent every waking hour at the beach. I really didn't care much to see what else Sanibel offered. Except I did go to Captiva Island for dinner. Great restaurant down there. Oh, and I did do a little shopping. A girl has gotta shop! Here was my daily schedule:

-Wake up (with the sandpipers)
  -Go to beach
-Eat lunch
  -Go back to beach
-Eat dinner
  -Go back to beach, stay until (past) sunset
-Sleep, then repeat

Funny story. The first year we vacationed on Sanibel Island, it was with two other people. We unloaded our bags and went straight to the beach. Walking about knee-deep or so in the surf, four across, with me closest to the 'deep' end of the ocean. Something small and fluttery swam between mine and my husbands' feet, startling us (we later discovered it was a wee-bitty little stingray). So, what does he do? He saves himself. Yes. You read that correctly. He pushes me toward the ocean while he jumps toward the beach...nice. And yet, I still married him. :-)

One on evening, we went to go watch the sunset. There was a family at the beach and two of their kids were in the water. Daylight had been fading away and as I watched them, I commented out loud, I hoped they (the parents) are watching those kids (because of course, I was thinking about 'what you can't see beneath, and I saw the father with a cocktail in his hands). No sooner had I thought this but this fin pops out of the water, I start toward the parents but luckily dad was paying attention and ran into the water shouting for them to get out. The kids got out safely.

The ocean is what I like to term a "beautiful nightmare". Its' sparkling blue waters and sandy floors will lure you in, but, believe for one moment the ocean is your friend and you could find yourself struggling in its' powerful waves and currents.

Or, you just might end up as shark bait..hoo, ha-ha (sorry, had to throw that in there!), if you're not careful. Personally, I am not a fan of not being able to see what's below me in the water. Maybe I watched too many Jaws movies.

Sanibel Island. The beach. The unknowns of daily life. These were the inspirations behind two newest handmade beaded necklace designs, affectionately termed Sink or Swim. When I discovered these two unique one-of-a-kind lampwork glass pendants, the swirling green and blue colors reminded me of the ocean.

Both necklaces feature Swarovski Crystals, sterling silver and a unique artisan lampwork glass pendant. See below for purchase information.

I know you are all alone sneaking in some internet time and if you got this far in the blog post, you saw him....and you're mind wandered with me. Go ahead. It's okay. You can admit it. It scared you too!

Green Artisan Lampwork Swirl Crystal Beaded Necklace (N124-G)

Sink. If you are fascinated by the deep sea, you're going to love this green handmade beaded necklace.

A mysterious 16.5mm green swirling artisan lampwork glass button pendant is the focal on this design, accented with both olivine and lime green Swarovski Crystals, sterling silver , Bali beads and silver-lined seed beads.

Finished with a single Swarovski Crystal charm dangle and signature jewelry tag.

This one of a kind necklace is a PRINCESS length at 18-1/2".

Blue Artisan Lampwork Crystal Necklace (N124-B)

Swim. If you love the blue oceans, you're going to love this deep blue handmade beaded necklace.

A mesmerizing 16.5mm blue swirling artisan lampwork glass button pendant is the focal on this design, accented with both indian sapphire and montana blue Swarovski Crystals, sterling silver, Bali beads and silver-line seed beads.

Finished with a single Swarovski Crystal charm dangle and signature jewelry tag.

This one of a kind necklace measures a PRINCESS length at 18-1/2".

Funnyisms

While in the car today it starts to rain and I say, "uh-oh". The little one asks why I said that. I remind her because Lucy (our dog) doesn't like the rain. She replies with something I say all the time, "no worries!". Tell that to the dog.

Then a short time later she says, "We should get a white car because our last name is White." I laugh. She then says, "And we can get purple, pink and yellow on it for our favorite colors. Ohh, and a rainbow heart...on top." Uhhhh -no. :-)

I'll concede (in theory, of course) to the favorite colors (I suppose it could work..somehow) but I put my foot down at the rainbow heart on top. Silly girl. :-)

Little Reasons We Celebrate Father's Day

Source: 1000GiftIdeas.com

Here's wishing every great dad out there today a Happy Father's Day!! Hope you enjoy your day and your gifts!

Let me share with you my little reason for celebrating father's day. Yesterday, the little one and I are enroute to the salon and I remind her of something we have to do. Here's our conversation:

Me: After the salon we have to go shopping for a father's day gift.

Little One: What are we going to get?

Me: I'll know it when I see it. (this is code for I haven't a darn clue)

Little One: Can't we just get him a tie?

I like her thinking.

Me: No. He doesn't have to wear suits and ties to work.

Little One: Oh. Only on fancy days?

Me: uhh, yes?! (that closes this topic)

We get finished at the salon, head over to the store. We're in the store in the beauty section (I know...we're getting to the men's stuff...really we are) and the little one asks me, "Where is the husband isle?"

The "husband isle"? I can hardly contain myself. But, I'm thinking to myself...if only it were that easy, I'm sure alot of women would be very happy. :-)

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I realize the tie picture isn't all that fantastic, per se. But, after seeking the comments from several friends about what male celebrity to post (who happens to be wearing a suit and tie that fit the theme of the blog post), I got back suggestions ranging from Eric Dane, Mario Lopez, George Clooney to Mark Wahlberg and more.

Now, I'll come clean here. I had absolutely no problem doing the actual research for this blog post. Sometimes, you just have to take one for the team, right?! But, in trying to keep it real for my male readers, I doubted they would prefer any of the pictures I would have selected. So, I opted on the side of 'safe' with a picture of a tie.  :-)

Thanks for the help, ladies. I think.

Artwork in the Home -My Home

Hand sketched custom artwork title "The White Family"
of pumpkins by Bronson Hill Arts

It shouldn't come as no surprise that I am a big fan of Bronson Hill Arts. I've mentioned Barb's artwork before and I'm not kidding, I have it all over my house! This is proven by my personalized painted wine glass, custom gift tag and sunflower photo, to name just a few.

Some time ago (yes, it has taken this long to post about them), I had asked my artisan friend, Barb, to create artwork that showcased three pumpkins representing the three members of our new family.

What she presented to me far exceeded my expectations. A hand sketched, colored pencil, autumn pumpkin family custom artwork. And she provided me with two additional copies of the custom pumpkins so the little one could have one in her room. Aww, you're such a good friend Barb! (and a great artist!)

Barb pulls inspiration from many different sources, and as I've discovered, at times our conversations! Sometimes she gets it rights, sometimes, she misses (the point....my point). But how the art was interpreted doesn't matter. What matters is the quality of the art. Which is why Bronson Hill Arts is so popular.

I'm so proud of my "little student". lol. A year or so back, Barb, finally took some time for herself to focus on her art and I was right there badgering encouraging her to share it with the world. I think I may even be able to take a little all credit for getting her to start a blog, work on a website and market her goods. We even get together periodically to purposely discuss marketing our businesses (and sometimes we really do get some work done!). In the twelve plus years' I've been working on my businesses', I've learned a lot. So, I love to share all that knowledge with her.

Now, if I can just get my other friend Darlene to start a blog on her beautiful home decorating style....

Purple Coneflowers colored pencil Artwork
by Bronson Hill Arts

You can check out Barb's work, in person, this coming weekend at her first show. The concept for her booth set up is fantastic and I guarantee if you see it, you will definately step into her booth. It draws you in and once you look at her artwork -you too will be hooked. The show details:

What: 9th Annual Wildflowers & Wine Celebration
When: Father's Day, June 17, 2012
Time: 11 am - 4 pm
Where: Montezuma Winery & Hidden Marsh Distillery
2981 Auburn Rd (Route 20)
Seneca Falls, NY 13148
(315) 568-8190
http://www.montezumawinery.com/

This event is also a fundraiser for the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge (315-568-5987). So your purchase will work double-time!

Hope you have a great show Barb!

Barb: I know you will read this blog post and just so ya know...I've got another idea that I'd like you to create. :-)  I guess I'll give you some time to rest from your show but then...expect my call. :-)

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To all my loyal email and newsletter readers, my apologies for the notice posting you received about autumn gold jewelry. I've been working, all week, on cleaning up the blog and must have inadvertently published a draft idea I had. Sorry about that. :-) You probably thought I was losing it...an autumn jewelry post in the summer. Silly me.

My Muse: Happy Birthday Eddie!

Awww! Aren't we sweet?!

To understand the passion I have for both designing jewelry and for the heartfelt designs I create, you have to know where it comes from.

Today is my oldest brothers' birthday. He passed away fourteen years ago from complications from cystic fibrosis, while waiting for a double lung transplant. Just prior to his passing I had begun an aggressive fundraising campaign to raise money to help defray the costs of his lung transplant and life-long follow up care.

Less than two years after his passing, I had founded and registered a charitable organization in his memory. The mission of the Foundation was to raise money to give to individuals and families faced with cystic fibrosis and/or transplant costs. The Foundation has provided assistance funds to over 100 individuals and families in need.

That may not seem like a huge number, but consider these facts: (1) We are a small all-volunteer grassroots fundraising organization -no big grants, no big corporate donors, no national media attention, no paid staff; (2) We created a solid program structure and, really, a new charitable model where (a) no other organization like this existed that (b) provided the services we provided and (c) actually succeeded at it; (3) We made contact, through the good 'ole method of snail mail letter, with approximately 260 care centers and built long-term relationships with over 70 social workers. These accomplishments were no easy feat. This doesn't even speak to the physical, emotional and taxing work that was involved in fundraising.

However, over the last few years it has become increasingly difficult to raise the funds, find the time and volunteers necessary to support our much needed programs. I have come to the difficult decision that the Foundation will be dissolved by years' end. But, I accept this turning point with an open heart. It's time. The Foundation has been providing assistance funds for nearly twelve years. I am only able to let this go because I can look back at all those families we helped and I know, in my heart, what good we did for them. The Foundation accomplished exactly what it set out to do and now its' time to let it go. I may reinvent the Foundation concept somehow, but the charitable part will have to be dissolved.

While running the Foundation, I had come up with a fundraising idea of selling beaded bracelets, designed for our awareness causes (cystic fibrosis, transplant, lung transplant). I searched high and low and found absolutely no jewelry or bracelets that supported raising awareness of cystic fibrosis, lung transplant or organ donation. So, what did I do? I fulfilled that unmet need, of course! The first two handcrafted awareness bracelets designed were back in early 2004. It makes me proud to say, to date, Crystal Allure Jewelry is the leader of cystic fibrosis, lung transplant, organ donation and transplant related beaded awareness bracelets! In the competitive market of jewelry, this too was no easy feat.

I can stand proud of these accomplishments because really neither were for me. Both endeavors were for the benefit of someone or something else and I wouldn't have it any other way. Okay, in fairness, I do get something out of both. Comfort, hope, peace of heart and mind. Satisfaction that I have contributed back and made a difference. I guess you could say, my brother is my guardian angel. He is and always will be my inspiration.

Born and blessed with both benevolent and entrepreneur qualities, I always knew I'd run my own business someday. I just never dreamed it would be two and that both would help people. I completely realize, I've put in the actual effort that ultimately made these businesses' successful. But it was the short time I had with Eddie that provided me a lifetime of memories that continue to motivate me and drive me to be humble to others' struggles and to be as successful as I can be. From my point of view, he is the sole reason why Crystal Allure Jewelry exists today. Our beautiful beaded jewelry is shipped all over the world and I get to meet some pretty fantastic people along this journey. :-)

Growing up with him, his illness and what it meant really gave me a different perspective on life -on living -and on making the most of everyday. I can't imagine not being able to breathe almost every. day. of. your. life. No. Wait. Yes, I think I can and it scares the bejesus out of me! Even on my most worst of days, if you ask me, my response will always be: everything is fine; I'm good. That's how I roll because I know this is just a day, it will pass. But somewhere, someone most surely "has it worse than me". I'm sure of it.

The lens(es) from which I view life were forever changed the day he passed away. I was changed, humbled, crushed, deeply saddened and felt alone. Through my own healing journey, I have discovered, time heals all wounds. I took my loss, sadness and turned it into two successful businesses, eternally celebrating his memory and what he means and meant to me.

Now you have a little better picture of what motivates me and inspires my jewelry designs. My ability to relate to many of my customers is what makes Crystal Allure Jewelry so personable. I infuse each custom jewelry piece with as many personal touches, from the customer, as I can. My artisan designs are always inspired by everyday life. And what is so great about our awareness jewelry is it works double time. Not only does the purchaser get an exquisite piece of jewelry (that was not mass produced) a portion of the proceeds gets donated to charity. It's a win-win. These, and many more, reasons are what sets Crystal Allure Jewelry apart from the competition and makes our business model and handcrafted jewelry designs so unique.

I hope you have enjoyed this journey of rediscovering the roots and purpose of Crystal Allure Jewelry.

About the picture used: I'm not a fan of being in pictures (I'd rather be behind the camera than in front of one) but I chose to feature the above picture of my brother and myself because, (1) having spent a good portion of my younger years "speeding through life", I didn't get many pictures with him; (2) this picture, for me, invokes a lot of good memories and; (3) this picture is actually the one used in the butterfly wing on the back cover of my good friend, Joanne Schum's second edition book: Taking Flight, Insprirational Stories of Lung Transplantation, More Journeys.

My vision for Joanne's 2nd edition book cover
highlighting one of our most popular bracelets

I was asked to contribute my story to this second edition. I was both honored and thrilled to be a part of this fantastic book. I hope you pick up a copy for yourself. There are some amazing stories that will fill your heart and make you look at things a little differently after reading it.

I was also invited to submit my idea(s) for the new book cover. I didn't win but I was 2nd place and was told it was a tough decision for her to make. I'm sad my idea didn't win the cover, but for the first time, since the book was published, I'm sharing my design idea with you.

My rough draft design idea highlights our most popular Transplant Awareness Ribbons Bracelet (B105). Which is also the bracelet that I guess you could say 'put Crystal Allure Jewelry on the map'!

So, join me today in our hearts in wishing Eddie a HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Eddie: I love you, miss you and you will be forever in my heart. Thank you for being the inspiring force behind my success and for listening when I still talk to you. :-)

Happy Customer and Planting Freeze Pops

I'm always thrilled and completely appreciative when I hear back from happy customers. It gives me great pleasure to know I've made someone's day and honored their design detail requests that truly make each custom piece a one-of-a-kind!

I received this email recently from Nancy who ordered a Custom Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Graduation Bracelet. Here is what she had to say:

Hi Stephanie!!!
: ) : ) : ) Just wanted to share that I opened the box tonight and the bracelet is perfect, thanks so much! : )  My niece's graduation is in a couple of weeks and I think I may give it to her ahead of time just in case she wants to wear it for her special day. I really appreciate all the time and care you put into the bracelet to make it such a special and meaningful gift.
Thanks, you're the best! : )
-Nancy

I had also received this lovely follow up comment from Holly who ordered the Custom Hope Love Cherish 2-strand Swarovski Crystal Bracelet:

I LOVE the bracelet we made for my friend with cancer. My friend loved it. I am planning on having others made very soon.
-Holly

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It's pretty late, as I prepare this blog post to schedule to post tomorrow. But I just had to share this hilarious story. We bought some of those inexpensive freeze pops for the kids. At the store, the little one asked us what they were for (clearly she was mesmerized by all the vibrant, delicious looking colors).

As a joke, we answered, "we are going to plant them". We totally figured she'd take a minute or so and question this. But she didn't. So, we left it be (with a little giggle, of course).

Today, we brought them out for the little one and her friends and she says, "Hey! Are we going to plant those?"

I laughed so hard, I cried...and couldn't stop for a good few minutes. Even now, I'm giggling about it! Out of the mouth of babes!

Always Late, But Never Forgotten!

Vera Bradley Coin and Key Case in Tea Garden

A woman cannot define her daily life without, in some way, including or referencing her friendships. Our girlfriends' are the next best thing to well, our significant other (but, don't tell the men that!). Although, in fairness, the good men know this.

I always have and still do, make more friends with men than women. However, this post doesn't have anything to do with my male friends. Sorry guys! I have been blessed with some truly great (female) friends that I cherish for the individual and collective roles they play in my life.

Some of these ladies I have been friends with longer than I have been married. Hmmm...they just might know a little too much. They have guided me and seen me through boyfriend woes, college stress, career building, the loss of my brother, infertility, wedding planning, marriage, in-laws, crazy family drama, ladies' nights out (there's always a "mother-hen" amongst us gals...thanks Barb!), ridiculous trends, style changes and so much more. They have been brutally honest at times (ouch!), super supportive (always), catty (you really shouldn't be surprised) and have always accepted me for what I am (a little bit of everything -I like to keep 'em on their toes!).

Each one of these fantastic ladies have enriched my life and I hope I have done the same in return. Of course, not having grown up with sisters, I can also say at times, it's a good thing! Just like the best of them, we can, as they say, 'get in our moods'. We're women. It's what we do. Do not question it. Just go with it. And oh, by the way, should you be around us when 'we are in that mood' -step away...in fact....turn and run!

This is WAY to funny not to share!

I have educated my husband, that when I happen to 'get in one of those moods', his response should always be, 'yes, dear'. I did mention always, didn't I? It's safer that way (for him). lol. I've also explained to him, that if he tells me something and asks me 'not to tell anyone', I totally hear him. Really, I do. BUT. You do understand that I will tell my girlfriends, right?! It's not that I mean to....it's just....well, I have to! He doesn't get it but he doesn't fight it either.

And for my male readers, in case you're wondering at this point...no, we really don't tell our girl friends everything. :-) There are just some things that have more meaning when left in our heart and in our memories.

The official girl friend to girl friend code of conduct goes like this: "secrets" can be shared from anyone else to your girl friend. BUT, a secret one girl friend shared with you cannot be shared with another girl friend (sub-rule): especially if (1) you're all from the same girl friend circle and/or (2) it's about the other girl friend. Yes, we are complicated creatures. Do not try to figure us out. Just when you think you have -you're wrong.

Recently, I mailed one of my friends, "T", a package of birthday gifts that well, I should have mailed, ohhhh, before April 6th (her actual birthday!). It's two months later, you say? Yup...that's how I roll. And this friend accepts me for that.

A Time For Tea Venetian Pink Pearl Beaded Watch (W08)

One of a Kind

SOLD

This friend and I share a love of getting together for tea. Neither time nor distance has faded our friendship. And each year, we try to at least either get together for tea (she lives about an hour and a half away) or we ship each other a package of all tea related gift items.

She was also the inspiration behind this handmade beaded watch.

"T" is an old-soul with a big heart. Thanks for being a friend "T" and hope you had a fantastic birthday...now go and enjoy your belated gifts!

The card says it all:
"Friendship is another word for love." -Sylvia Tomas

Inside it reads:
True Friendships are forever.

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And "T", if you happen to catch this blog post. I realize this is an old topic, but on the heels of our recent texts. You might think of making the suggestion to your mom to remove those shelves above the heaven-sent feather guest bed. Maybe then your guest won't wake up from small bombs being dropped pushed off those shelves by little furry paws!