.:JerseyGirlDesign:.

11.11.11

2011-11-11T23:11:00.002-05:00

I just love numbers...and dates...and today is a pretty awesome one: November 11, 2011, a.k.a. 11.11.11...

how cool?? and how cool is it that I scheduled this post at 11:11??

either way...November 11th means it is two months until my birthday!! :)

A new look for the Etsy Shop!

2011-10-27T15:32:00.000-04:00

one of the many wonderful pieces of advice I took away from attending the Summit of Awesome, were the shop critique notes from the lovely Cheyne of Etsy! First up on my list of things to work on, was my shop banner. while the graphic designer in me loved the original banner, it definitely took away from the items in the shop, and let's be honest, that is really what is important!

so here is the before...

and the after!

what do you think??

Saturday's Photo

2011-06-04T09:00:00.000-04:00

this one's a 'two-fer'...

the last days of our afterschool program at Wolfe Street...really going to miss these kids! I definitely will never forget my first class :)

Friday Finds - wine festival

2011-06-03T20:51:00.000-04:00

since tomorrow we are going to the Vintage Virginia Wine Festival...

being outside all day in the sun requires a cute dress to wear...like this one by Ureshii

and how cool will you feel sipping wine in these vintage sunglasses from Vintmaillot?

finishing off the outfit is this delicate little necklace, with wine colored rhodolite garnet gems by Small & Mighty

now grab your wine glass holder and let's get tasting!

The Fiction Project - complete

2011-06-02T13:13:00.000-04:00

I know I had promised (upon multiple occasions) that I would share with you the in progress works of my Fiction Project submission...and I failed, big time! I worked so hard on what I was going to say, that when it came down to putting the actual words on paper with the illustrations, and finishing them...well let's just say I worked some long days and my hand is just finally recovering from all the writing...

so, since it's about 40 or so pages, I'm going to share with you in little chunks, the finished product :)

enjoy! (you can click on the image to see it full sized)

It's June!

2011-06-01T11:22:00.000-04:00

how is it already June!? I can't believe summer is just around the corner...quite honestly, it's felt like the dead of summer here in Baltimore for a few weeks now...somehow we went from 75 degree days straight into the 90's, and I for one am not happy! I love the spring, and we got completely jipped out of it this year!

so in the spirit of calling it an early summer...go search on Etsy for BESTUSA2011 and you can find some awesome items for sale, that are Fourth of July inspired!

lots of red, white and blue goodness!!

back to blogging! with a treasury!

2011-05-31T10:51:00.000-04:00

wow, it has been such a long time since I've been good to my blog...but I'm hoping now that school is out- well after school at least, and I've got about a month before my training with BCTR starts, I'll be able to get back into the swing of things! I'll try and go back too, and update a few things that happened since my last post :)

but to get us back on track...a beautiful blue treasury by Namoo!

Spring Thing! - Treasury

2011-05-03T09:56:00.000-04:00

featured in a lovely treasury consisting of all artists who will be at the DC Craft Mafia's 1st Annual Spring Thing on May 21st!

Passing Score!

2011-04-12T08:43:00.000-04:00

all that studying has paid off...the Praxis is just another step conquered on the way to becoming a teacher! so the study guides are going up on the shelf, and the Fiction Project and jewelry inventory are back up to a first priority!

HOORAY!!!!!

this is the post-it that I stared at for the last month...with the big 304 on it...the score I needed to pass...and below is my score report...314- yeah!!!!!!!

Saturday's Photo

2011-04-09T09:00:00.000-04:00

Don's Weather Rock

April 9th - Silver Spring Bling at Fenton Street Market!

2011-04-07T09:01:00.003-04:00

it's my first show of the season!!!

come on out to Fenton Street Market's Silver Spring Bling this Saturday from 9am-2pm for a jewelry extravaganza!!

all the artists involved were hand picked by the Fenton Staff....so you need to come check it out for yourself! great gifts for yourself...and remember, Mother's Day is only a month away!!

the market is located in it's brand new space, on Fenton Street and Ellsworth Drive in Silver Spring- and there are tons of restaurants and other shops in the area - so make a day of it!!

for a list of all participating artists, click here!

and hope for good weather!!

Ski Trip recap

2011-04-07T09:00:00.000-04:00

last weekend we ventured up to Vermont, for our annual family ski trip...and this year, I skied! for real! I went down a legitimate trail...up a real chair lift, and all the way down! it might have taken me a very long time...but I did it...and I am very proud of myself!

it snowed all the days we were there, which made the skiing a lot more fun, and authentic feeling...even though it was April...I went snowshoeing, sledding, and built a snowman!

we ate many delicious meals, and enjoyed fabulous Vermont cheese every night at cocktail hour...

we celebrated two birthdays and a retirement, and got to meet the newest member of the family, Ben :)

Happy Birthday to the other LB :)

2011-04-06T09:22:00.000-04:00

Lauren B & Lauren B...happy birthday little one! :) love you!

What I'm Working on - the fiction project, continued

2011-04-06T09:00:00.000-04:00

you know when you start something, and it seems like you'll have forever to finish it, leisurely and without having to rush through it...well now I'm feeling the pressure...I have 24 days to finish the Fiction Project!

I have all my "Happy Thoughts" picked out...so now it's simply a matter of writing and illustrating my pages...no big deal, right??

so if you talk to me in the next three weeks, ask me how it's going...and make sure I'm making progress! my little book is about to tour the country!

I heart Iced Coffee

2011-04-05T09:00:00.011-04:00

how cool is this!?

I've been experimenting with making iced coffee for a few months now...for convenience and of course for the $$ savings...but this coffee press from Crate & Barrel makes iced coffee!

Item of the Week! 04.04.11

2011-04-04T09:00:00.010-04:00

this week's item is....these stunning and brighter than bright hot pink chalcedony earrings! I just love this gemstone- so pretty! They are a nice size- not overpowering, but they pack a punch of color!

any order placed that contains this necklace until Sunday, April 3rd will receive free shipping*!

*shipping cost will be refunded after the purchase :)

Favorite Etsy Shop - The Littlest Bean

2011-04-03T09:00:00.023-04:00

for this week's favorite shop, I am bringing the love right back home to The Littlest Bean, run by Jen Menkhaus, BEST leader extraordinaire! she truly does everything, and does it well...keeps our group running and still manages to create beautiful designs in felt- and she's always coming up with something new!

most likely you'll be drawn to her shop or booth by all the bright pops of color...like what you see in her felt circle rings

or maybe you need a pretty flower headband? who doesn't!?!

and another new design that I just love...the bubble necklace!

check out The Littlest Bean on Etsy, for all your colorful, felt needs...you know you have them!! and the best part about all of Jen's work...is that most things can be custom ordered- in any color you want!! felt galore!!

Saturday's Photo

2011-04-02T09:00:00.001-04:00

back in January when I made a trip home to NJ...I stopped and visited with my Uncle and cousins :)

and to my surprise and delight...Uncle Denis pulled out this penguin poster that I had made him for Christmas...oh probably about 20+ years ago! back when we made all our gifts...my neighbor/honorary sister Dana and I would start in August, and work tirelessly until we had handmade a gift for everyone in our family...not always the most practical or the best quality...but obviously full of sentiment, if they're still around all these years later :)

summertime - treasury

2011-04-01T23:47:00.000-04:00

another beautiful treasury featuring JerseyGirlDesign, and some of the other BEST talent!!

Friday Finds - for the love of pickles

2011-04-01T09:00:00.040-04:00

without a doubt, one of my favorite things to eat in the whole world, are pickles...I have a few favorite brands, and they each have their own specific meals...it might seem weird, but after searching on Etsy for items about pickles, I found I was not alone...

so I bring you, Friday Finds...PICKLES!

how much cooler would any purchase be, in a pickle bag?? from Dime Store Buddy

who thought you'd have your choice of pickle slice earrings?? what about these cute ones from by Angel Cake

or these ones by Hand and Nom Jewelry

and this print by Ecceprints says it all!

and if you need more pickle themed art...how about this original painting "pickle and pickle spear" by Mattson Studios

and who doesn't need a pirate pickle? everyone needs a pirate pickle. like this one by Missy and Me

and finally, pickle stickers. awesome pickle stickers by Chewy Tulip

Glitter Giveaway with Ms Charm's Chic!

2011-03-31T12:14:00.000-04:00

I am super excited to be doing my very first giveaway of JerseyGirlDesign jewelry with an awesome blogger and fashionista, Paulette of Ms Charm's Chic! Besides being super sweet, she runs a blog that helps promote local designers!

So whether you live locally or not, go check out her blog for instructions on how to enter the drawing to win this sparkly, purple goodness!

You only have until April 6th- so hurry up!! Go enter to win!

6 foods I'd take to a desert island

2011-03-31T09:00:00.016-04:00

1. pickles- but not just any...Heinz Hamburger Dill Sliced pickles...very important detail

2. pizza - again, very specifically, from Alfonsos in Hillsborough, NJ :) runner up is Harbor East Pizza in Fells Point...a pretty good substitute

3. lasagna...I make a pretty good one, that is our annual family Christmas Eve dinner #funfact

4. Dr Pepper- favorite soda...and I can't have pizza without it...so naturally it makes the list

5. black cherry ice cream - Wegmans has an awesome low-fat ice cream...with little chocolate chips it's the perfect dessert..and on a desert island I'd need something cool

...I really do like healthy foods too...but these are my favorite favorite things to eat...not all in one day, thank goodness

oh and soup...#6 would be Lipton noodle soup! one of my favorite stories from when I was little, as told by my Mom :), was that I used to go to friends houses to play, and when I'd come home, I'd ask for lunch, even if we'd already had lunch...and my reply was always, "but we didn't have soup." so another food I clearly could not live without.

What I'm Working on - polymer clay!

2011-03-30T09:00:00.008-04:00

so I've been working a bit on my polymer clay skills, and here are some photos of my first round of ideas...of course, they involve glitter, because, well that's how people know me now ;)

they aren't quite done...need some finishing touches...but I am toying around with what colors to offer in the spring season...

recipe box favorites: PF Changs Dan Dan Noodles!

2011-03-29T09:00:00.010-04:00

In the spirit of eating healthier, and spending less money on restaurants and take out (minus pizza...pizza will always be in the diet and budget) I thought it would be fun to try and make some of our favorite recipes at home...test 1, PF Changs Dan Dan Noodles...B's favorite, and I always end up trying to steal a bite or two of his...

I found a recipe after searching on line for a while, and I am pretty impressed with it and myself! here was the finished product...and it even got a thumbs up from the "food critic"

you can find the recipe here

but in case your lazy...it's also here :)

Just like "PF Changs" Dan-Dan Noodles

2 skinless, boneless chicken breast fillets, cooked and minced (about 2 cups)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, plus more for cooking chicken
1 6-ounce package chow mein noodles
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1/4 cup chopped green onions
6 tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon chile-garlic sauce
4 teaspoons cornstarch
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup julienned English cucumber
1/2 cup bean sprouts

Saute chicken fillets in oil for 10-12 minutes in a skillet. Mince cooked
chicken into very small pieces.

Prepare the noodles following the directions on the package.

Make sauce by heating oil over medium heat in a saucepan or wok. Add garlic
and green onion and saute for just a few seconds, being careful not to burn
the garlic. Add soy sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar and chile-garlic
sauce.

Combine the cornstarch with 1/2 cup water and stir it into the sauce. Simmer
sauce for about 2 minutes or until it thickens.

Add the chicken to the thicken sauce and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Place cooked noodles onto a serving plate. Spoon chicken and sauce over the top of the noodles, then garnish with julienned cucumber on one side, bean sprouts on the other.

Shop Etsy & support the MD SPCA!

2011-03-28T09:20:00.015-04:00

like to shop AND want to help the animals?? just click on this link and you can do both!! some of the members of BEST have been kind enough to offer some of the items in their shop, as donations to the MD SPCA's March for the Animals happening on April 17th!

You might even find some awesome items by JerseyGirlDesign that will donate 50% of their sale price to the charity!!

maybe they are listed below ;)

Item of the Week! 03.28.11

2011-03-28T09:00:00.014-04:00

this week's item...the Cherry Necklace! available in gold or silver...super cute, simple, fun and oh so summery- get ready for warmer weather with the perfect accessory!

any order placed that contains this necklace until Sunday, April 3rd will receive free shipping*!

*shipping cost will be refunded after the purchase :)

my best selling item

2011-03-27T18:49:00.000-04:00

without a doubt, my best selling item on Etsy is the Pineapple Quartz necklace- I sold two today, to be exact! It always seems to sell in pairs, sometimes even in threes! this necklace is so beautiful and bold, while being light and understated at the same time...if that makes any sense :)

the color is so fresh, and it is one of my favorite items as well!

Favorite Etsy Shop - Bella Puzzles

2011-03-27T09:00:00.017-04:00

you might remember this seller from my Friday Finds this week...but there were so many amazing puzzles in this shop, I wanted to share some more!

working at an Elementary School, I've sort of reconnected with puzzles, and these are just so beautiful, I'd want to finish them, and frame them for my wall!

this first puzzle is made of art by Stephen Moore, and the puzzle is hand cut...150 pieces, and some of them are cut into fun shapes like animals!

or this image of Wtich on her Broomstick, with cats and pumpkins as puzzle pieces!

you can even have your own photographs turned into puzzles! and in each box you'll find at least one monkey puzzle piece...the signature style! what fun!

Saturday's Photo

2011-03-26T09:00:00.002-04:00

last weekend we had our first BEST meeting of the year at the main building on MICA's campus...the building was so amazing inside...here's a photo of me, hamming it up on the stairs inside :)

Friday Finds - puzzling

2011-03-25T09:00:00.022-04:00

I recently got a custom order request for puzzle piece pendants, and instead of using found charms, I'm going to be making them myself! That inspired me for this week's Friday Finds...Puzzles!

this puzzle of a globe full of animals is just beautiful! the colors and images are just wonderful, and it is handmade in Oregon by Bella Puzzles- one of my new favorite shops!!

you can't not smile while putting together this cute dog puzzle by Puzzimals

or you can ditch that dusty old guest book, and do something different...what about a hand cut guest book puzzle by Double Trouble Puzzles!

let's go...skiing!

2011-03-24T09:00:00.019-04:00

so it might seem like the winter season is over...but we have our annual Vermont family ski trip planned and I am getting really excited! I love the freshness in the air, the beautiful scenery and the laid back atmosphere of the little mountain town around Sugarbush Ski Resort!

here are some of the things I would take with me on this trip...

I found these on Uncommon Goods, and they just made me laugh- I'm not usually one who checks my bag- I pack strategically, and usually don't need more then a small suitcase and my carry-on bag, but if I was going to...these would lighten my mood about the situation

I would also need to have some pretty warm socks....my feet are usually the only part of me that gets cold, as well as the fact that ski boots hurt my legs- no matter the size - so extra padding can only help! these cute snowflake leg warmers should keep the snow out of my boots, and keep my legs warm and dry!

and no day on the slopes would be complete, without a before dinner snack of delicious Vermont cheese and some cocktails! which would look lovely on this fused glass dish by Sweety Bull Glass!

and I know this isn't something I need to bring with me...but how cute are sledding penguins??

What I'm Working on - my tumblr site!

2011-03-23T09:00:00.015-04:00

so I think I may have mentioned a while back that I was working on a 365 sketchbook project...and I chose one of my favorite subjects, penguins, as the main inspiration.

I know it's mid-March by now, but I have been sketching away, and just being too lazy to scan or post...but I'm trying to catch myself up this week...and in the spirit of sharing, here is my first week's worth of posts: http://penguinaday.tumblr.com/

eventually I want to try and color these digitally, but for now they are just plain old pencil, pen and ink!

recipe box favorites: donuts!

2011-03-22T09:00:00.018-04:00

I decided that I wanted to try and start branching out on my recipes, so I wasn't getting so bored at the meals I cooked day after day, week after week...B has started helping out, making his go-to dish, tacos, once a week, on the night I get home late from the gym...but besides that...I typically make 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 5 dinners a week (pizza is another big helper!)

so in the spirit of having more variety at breakfast time...I thought this coming weekend I'd try to make these donuts that came in my weekly Real Simple email :)

photo by Yunhee Kim

Ingredients

3/4 cup vegetable oil
1 8-count package large refrigerated biscuits (such as Pillsbury Grands)
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Heat ½ cup of the oil in a medium skillet over medium-low heat.
Place the biscuits on a cutting board. Using a 1-inch round cookie cutter or shot glass, cut a hole in the center of each biscuit, reserving the extra dough for "holes."
Test the heat of the oil by dipping the edge of a doughnut in the pan. When the oil is hot enough, the edge will bubble. Place 4 of the doughnuts and holes in the skillet and cook until golden brown, 1 to 1½ minutes per side. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel–lined plate to drain. Add the remaining oil to the skillet, reheat, and cook the remaining doughnuts and holes.
In a large bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon. Gently toss the warm doughnuts in the mixture a few at a time. Serve warm or at room temperature.
This recipe makes 8 doughnuts, plus holes.

wouldn't mind sealing these envelopes!

2011-03-21T12:03:00.000-04:00

envelopes...flavored like bacon. genius!!! there is nothing worse then the taste of the glue on an envelope flap...am I right?? thank you for these bacon flavored envelopes - you can find them at Uncommon Goods!

Item of the Week! 03.21.11

2011-03-21T09:00:00.001-04:00

this week's item is...the Blue Sunstone Necklace! this necklace is bold and sparkly...a real statement piece! this is a favorite at all my shows! wear it on a sunny day and watch it shine!

any order placed that contains this necklace until Sunday, March 27th will receive free shipping*!

*shipping cost will be refunded after the purchase :)

Favorite Etsy Shop - Cutesy but not Cutesy

2011-03-20T09:00:00.037-04:00

Another favorite shop of mine is Cutesy but not Cutesy run by the adorable Diane Koss! Her monsters just melted my heart and the soft fabrics will make you want to pick one up, give it a hug, or in the case of the hoodies...put one on, and never take it off!

the Monster Banana Split is too cute to eat!

or make your morning coffee even cuter with the Cutesy Bunny Mug

and keep warm in this fantastically cute Monster Hoodie

all of Diane's creations are one of a kind, stitched with love, by hand- and she even uses eco-friendly felt! visit her shop and blog for more monsterific fun...find out where you can see her at a show this year, or just buy yourself some furry cutesy goodness!

Saturday's Photo

2011-03-19T09:00:00.007-04:00

a view from the front door in NJ...last summer...remember, when it was warm??

Friday Finds - feeling green?

2011-03-18T09:00:00.027-04:00

in the spirit of the Irish...Friday Finds, in Emerald Green!

a cute art print by Hop Skip Jump Paper

or these adorable egg-shaped kitty crayons by Kitty Baby Love

maybe this amazing crocheted scarf by Vital Temptation

and of course the shameless self promotion...this cute glittery goodness by JerseyGirlDesign :)

2011-03-17T09:00:00.004-04:00

Happy St Patrick's Day!

photo by Robert Hough

What I'm Working on - new designs in clay!

2011-03-16T09:00:00.015-04:00

last week I got to attend a workshop held at MICA, taught by my friend Jen, clay expert extraordinaire...and I am hooked! I had purchased myself some clay a while back, because I got a starter kit for PMC (precious metal clay- it's clay that turns to silver when you fire it!!) but it's so expensive, I was afraid to use it until I felt comfortable with the medium, and polymer clay is the perfect tool to practice with!

needless to say, I haven't had much time to play around with it, but on Tuesday last week, I took a study break, and dove in head first!

here are some of the fun designs I made, and fired in my oven when I got home :p

and now I've been sketching some ideas for resin jewelry that incorporates some clay pieces in it...I can not wait to have something done to post on here...but until then...here are some of the fun colors of clay I had bought a while back when it was on a super sale!

the workshop was put on by Etsy, MICA and the Baltimore Etsy Team (BEST) as part of the I Heart Art project!!

recipe box favorites: chicken & dumplings

2011-03-15T09:00:00.017-04:00

I recently tried a new recipe! It's been a while since I've ventured away from my 'safe and easy' meals to try something new...but I saw this recipe Real Simple last week, and I had all the ingredients on hand...and all I had to do was throw it in the crockpot and let it cook all day...sold!

I made a few changes, because I didn't have heavy cream, so I substituted cream of chicken soup, and I didn't have any dry white wine, so I just used extra chicken stock...and last change was using gnocchi instead of biscuits to be my dumplings...because I love gnocchi :)

it turned out really well, and we had leftovers that re-heated and tasted just as good!

I highly recommend this one!

For the original recipe, go here!

Ingredients

3/4 pound carrots (about 4), cut into 1-inch lengths
2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
1 small onion, chopped
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 8)
1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
kosher salt and black pepper
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
6 (store-bought or Easy Drop Biscuits; see recipe), split **gnocchi**
1 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup heavy cream

Directions

1. In a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker, toss together the carrots, celery, onion, and flour. Place the chicken on top and season with the poultry seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Add the wine and broth.

2. Cover and cook until the chicken and vegetables are tender, on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 2 1⁄2 to 3 hours (this will shorten total cooking time).

3. Thirty minutes before serving, prepare the Easy Drop Biscuits (if using).

4. Ten minutes before serving, add the peas, cream, and ½ teaspoon salt to the chicken and stir to combine. Cover and cook until heated through, 5 to 10 minutes more.

5. To serve, place the bottom halves of the biscuits in shallow bowls, then top with the chicken mixture and the remaining biscuit halves.

crayon art? oh yes.

2011-03-14T09:07:00.000-04:00

look at this!?!? how awesomely ridiculously cool?

carved crayons by Pete Goldlust via CraftTherapy via Cartwheel Galaxy

Item of the Week! 03.14.11

2011-03-14T09:00:00.010-04:00

this week's item is...the glitter dot ring! this ring is a collaborative effort with Yummy & Company...in one of those genius moments...we combined our two mediums into this delightful, sparkly creation!

any order placed that contains this necklace until Sunday, March 13th will receive free shipping*!

*shipping cost will be refunded after the purchase :)

Favorite Etsy Shop - Bunny with a Toolbelt

2011-03-13T09:00:00.020-04:00

If you know me, you know how much I love cute stuff...especially if it is colorful and involves adorable animals...so much to my delight, I stumbled upon this shop, bunny with a tool belt, the other day :)

even they "put a bird on it"

or you can seal up your "in-progress" wine bottles with this adorable stopper

and if you want something a little less conventional...how about an adorable wedding cake topper?

Saturday's Photo

2011-03-12T09:00:00.000-05:00

happy Saturday !!

*if you're reading this...I'm currently taking the Praxis exam...so keep all fingers and toes crossed...whatever good luck charms you may have...I want to pass this thing in one try!

Friday Finds - Seeing Stars

2011-03-11T09:00:00.024-05:00

this week's friday finds are inspired by constellations...enjoy!

a Capricorn necklace pendant by Julie Nolan

a constellation card set by Nature's Cubbyhole

a constellation star map tee by Nonfiction Tees

Thursday's shoe story .:. rain, rain .:.

2011-03-10T09:35:00.000-05:00

after about a year of walking around on rainy days with soggy feet, and cursing myself for not buying rain boots...I caved...and look at the adorableness that sits on my feet on those days!!

so they never went on sale, but they are worth every penny...plus I found a gift card...they are at Target! go, free your feet from the soggyness!

What I'm Working on - Jen's Bridal Party

2011-03-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

more friends, more weddings, and more bridal party jewelry!!

Jen and Steve are getting married in October, and she's asked me to design the jewelry her girls will wear that day! we had a brainstorming session last week, and the decision is crystals and pearls- something neutral that can easily be worn again! smart girl!! so I'm in the process of putting together earrings and bracelets for her five bridesmaids and one flower girl :)

tutorial - clothespin planters!

2011-03-08T09:00:00.015-05:00

I came across this adorable tutorial the other day after just having made tuna for lunch, and if I had clothespins on hand, I would have put it together right away! a really cute project for spring- and one that is environmentally friendly - putting old tin cans to use...from the Family Chic Blog, clothespin planters!

you just need a few simple materials, and you have yourself a pop of green inside your house! perfect for this time of year :)

for the entire tutorial, click here!

Baltimore Brides - Treasury

2011-03-07T21:54:00.000-05:00

hello beautiful treasury!

Item of the Week! 03.07.11

2011-03-07T09:00:00.011-05:00

this week's item is...the Seaside Necklace! this was actually the necklace we wore as bridesmaids in my best friends wedding- which was almost 2 years ago! it's been a favorite of other bridal parties (contact me for details!!)

any order placed that contains this necklace until Sunday, March 13th will receive free shipping*!

*shipping cost will be refunded after the purchase :)

Happy Birthday Becka!!

2011-03-07T08:20:00.000-05:00

to one of my favorite room mates, and fabulous new mommy...happy 29th birthday!!

love you!! we must plan a visit soon...mr Parker is getting too big too fast!!

one interesting, scary, challenging, but very rewarding year...

2011-03-06T09:05:00.014-05:00

it's been a whole year since our little kevin was sick...off to the emergency vet with a not so good prognosis of kidney disease that left me pretty much inconsolable...but he turned out to be a fighter, and I could not be more thrilled...I couldn't imagine our house without the little furball in it, and his personality has come out in ways we never saw before...I think even though it was an awful, and traumatic experience, (not to mention costly), we all came out better in the end for it...he's more outgoing and therefore gets the love and attention he deserves, and I realized how lucky I am to have him, and his counterpart Jack...and sometimes Eddie...

so I'm off to feed him his special food, and listen to his happy meows as I bring the bowl to him :)

here's to many more happy years my furry friend!!

Favorite Etsy Shop - Wabisabi Brooklyn

2011-03-06T09:00:00.002-05:00

I feel like I could go on and on about the nice- and extremely talented! - people I met last summer at the BMAC show, so I will :)

MaryAnne of Wabisabi Brooklyn is as sweet as she is creative - her line of work includes re-purposing coins into fabulous jewelry!! *she's also the one who's inspired me to make my posts about lists! which I hope is an interesting addition to the blog!!

Along with the coins, she uses photographs and decoupage techniques to create beautiful works of art you can wear!

I love her miniature coin earrings- teeny little quarters you can wear on your ears!

and of course the state quarter necklace- I love me anything that has NJ on it!!

and for the guys- you can get them cufflinks made with nickles and photos of the Brooklyn Bridge!

make sure you check out her shop on Etsy! you will not be disappointed!

5 movies I could watch over and over

2011-03-05T08:39:00.012-05:00

*not including holiday movies...that's a whole other list...

1. The Princess Bride
2. Coraline
3. Anchor Man
4. Dirty Dancing
5. Little Miss Sunshine

and again...

2011-03-04T09:13:00.000-05:00

anniversary, 2011 style...yummy hibachi dinner tonight!

Friday Finds - pops of color

2011-03-04T05:23:00.023-05:00

looking through the suggested Etsy merchandising tips for spring...bright bold pops of color are "in"...with that being said, I bring you Friday Finds on Etsy...Pops of Color!

this "Day bag" by Abba Dabba Bags is a perfect mix of colors- the navy with the bright blue is a great contrast, and quite the pop of color!

this hot pink Paper Crane t-shirt from Caustic Threads fits the theme as well!

and these bright yellow chalcedony earrings by Rhonda Michaels Jewelry will stand out in a crowd!

even pops of color for your home! this lime green light by Filigree Creations is so cool!

personal intervention...scarves

2011-03-03T09:20:00.010-05:00

so we all know how much I love shoes, and now nail polish...but another one of my addictions that I only recently became aware of...is scarves...

when I lent a few to Jen for her trip to Philly for BMAC, I realized after they were on their way, how much I rely on my scarves to put outfits together...a plain shirt, paired with a multi-colored (and usually glittery) scarf becomes an outfit! so I went into my closet, and pulled out *most* of my scarves to show you in this confession...

so if you are ever out shopping with me...and you see me with scarf in hand...remind me...that I have a problem :)

Happy Birthday Bean!!

2011-03-03T05:00:00.006-05:00

Happy Birthday to our Christina-beana! we love youuuuuuu!!

here's a nice photo of us last September...remember, when it was warm??

Happy 107th Birthday to Dr Seuss!

2011-03-02T10:04:00.001-05:00

OH!
THE PLACES YOU'LL GO!

You'll be on your way up!
You'll be seeing great sights!
You'll join the high fliers
who soar to high heights.

Will you succeed?
Yes you will indeed!
(98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed.)

today is the birthday of one of my greatest inspirations in life...Dr Seuss...he would have been 107 years old if his genius was still with us today!

so I'm ditching my original lesson plan for class, and we're going to have a Dr Seuss themed day! now I'm off to watch the Lorax, Green Eggs and Ham and all the others that are on my Seuss DVD :)

it's also my goal to own all the books in his collection...so far I'm doing pretty good, but as you can see from this photo, I've got a ways to go!!

great responsibilities

2011-03-02T05:01:00.017-05:00

since joining BEST (Baltimore Etsy Street Team) a few years back, I've really started to embrace living in Baltimore, and making some great new friends to make me feel more at home...well this year, they asked me to be one of the Core members, which comes with more responsibility, but I am up and super willing for the challenge!

so now a few times a year you'll get a newsletter written by yours truly- if you subscribe...if not, go here and sign up!! - and I help coordinate posts for our team blog..

very excited to be more involved with this fabulous group!!

everything's gone green - Etsy treasury

2011-03-01T08:31:00.000-05:00

Happy March everyone!! here's another Etsy treasury you can find one of my pieces in...and everything is awesome and green!!

tutorial - framed!

2011-03-01T08:01:00.000-05:00

jewelry truly is a work of art...so why not display/store it that way? I love this tutorial, brought to us by the Poopscape Projects blog, on how to turn an old frame, into unique and beautiful jewelry storage!

What you'll need:

Frame
Paint (if you need to paint your frame)
Foam core or heavy cardboard
Fabric to cover the foam core
Hot glue gun
map pins or hooks to hang jewelry from

the steps to this tutorial can be found here!

Item of the Week! 02.28.11

2011-02-28T08:36:00.007-05:00

this week's item is...the trio necklace in blue chalcedony and pearl! I love the combination of colors, the blues with the bright white of the pearl...this would be a perfect "something blue" for a wedding party!!

any order placed that contains this necklace until Sunday, March 6th will receive free shipping*!

*shipping cost will be refunded after the purchase :)

Favorite Etsy Shop - Fisk & Fern

2011-02-27T08:35:00.019-05:00

another one of my new friends, from the BMAC show in August, was Laura of Fisk & Fern...I instantly fell in love with her cute illustrations, and all the ways you could give, display and wear them!

who wouldn't love to cook breakfast wearing this adorable Bacon Monster Apron??

and now that I am officially a resident of Pigtown, these cards would be perfect for sending a note to friends :)

these erasers are too cute to use! I think I'd just sit them on my desk and stare at them!!

her shop tagline says "silly and strange paper and homegoods"...guess I'm silly and strange too, because I love it all!! :)

Saturday's Photo

2011-02-26T07:42:00.000-05:00

some of the adorable girls in my class, "hula hooping" last week on a really warm February day!

Honeysuckle - Etsy treasury

2011-02-25T09:11:00.000-05:00

come check out this lovely treasury that I'm in, featuring all items in Pantone's color of the year, Honeysuckle!

Put a Bird on it!

2011-02-25T08:31:00.004-05:00

had to post the video that goes along with Friday Finds...

"put a bird on it" skit from Portlandia

Friday Finds - put a bird on it!

2011-02-25T07:51:00.040-05:00

inspired by the show Portlandia, and one of their sketches about how putting the image of a bird on something makes it "crafty" I bring you, friday finds on Etsy...

Otis the Owl Pillow by BEST's JennyJen42

birds on a scarf by Victrola Design

birds on a leather journal by In Blue

birdie bobbie pins by BEST's The Small Craft Advisory

rooster tea towels by BEST's Fuzzy Mug

and you can see this cute little bird pendant at my shop :)

5 places I'd like to own a vacation home

2011-02-24T04:51:00.014-05:00

1. a cabin in Vermont
2. San Diego, California
3. Iceland
4. a really cool, but small apartment in New York City
5. a beach house in Naples, Florida

*one of the wonderful ladies I met at the BMAC wholesale show last year has a blog where she keeps just list of lists...so she's inspired me to make some of my own...thanks MaryAnne!!

What I'm Working on - the fiction project

2011-02-23T10:33:00.022-05:00

since I have just about 2 1/2 months until it's due, I thought I'd share a little of the brainstorming that I've been doing for my "Happy Thoughts" book that will be touring the country as part of the fiction project...

I of course made a list in one of my idea books...see photo below...but here are a few of the contenders to make it into the book!

*color combinations
     *rootbeer floats
*rain at night
     *tomato soup & grilled cheese sandwiches
*family traditions
     *pens of every color
*SNOW
     *giving yourself a manicure

now I get to write about them, draw some sketches to go with them, and bring it all to life! it's very exciting...but of course the crazy in me wants to make detailed sketches before touching the pages of my Moleskine journal...so much pressure!! blank pages are so full of promise, but also so terrifying at the same time!

March for the Animals

2011-02-23T09:54:00.000-05:00

it's hard to believe that it's been almost 7 years since I went to the adoption day at Petsmart for the Maryland SPCA and picked out my furry friends...it's hard to remember a time before they were with me, and even though the early morning wake-ups can be annoying, the unconditional love makes up for it :)

so when it comes time to give back, the SPCA always has a special place in my heart :) and on March 12th, while I'm working away taking the Praxis exam (eek) my BEST friends will be out walking in Druid Hill Park supporting this great organization!

if you'd like to help, click here to make a donation!!

tutorial - chalkboard frames!

2011-02-22T07:30:00.024-05:00

I'm always looking for cute arts and crafts to make with kids, now that I'm an after school teacher, and aspiring full time teacher...so when I came across this idea, it seemed just the thing that my kids could handle, and would really enjoy!

they always love to paint, and what better then to make their own chalkboard!?

another awesome idea, courtesy of Real Simple:

What you need:
Frame
Chalkboard Paint
Chalk
Newspaper

Place frame on newspaper in a well-ventilated area. Paint frame and let it dry.
Pop in a favorite photo. Using the chalk, write your special message.

this of course was featured around Valentine's day, but doesn't have to be limited to that...you can find many colors of paint, and customize to any holiday! also, you can just paint other wooden surfaces, to make your own mini chalkboards! kids can practice their letters and numbers, erase and start again!!

Item of the Week! 02.21.11

2011-02-21T01:33:00.012-05:00

this week's item is....the glitter barrettes in ice blue! one of my newer designs, these are that perfect sparkly touch to spruce up any outfit! they come on a black barrette clip- and you get a set of two :)

any order placed that contains this necklace until Sunday, February 27th will receive free shipping*!

*shipping cost will be refunded after the purchase :)

Favorite Etsy Shop - HuiYi Tan

2011-02-20T01:32:00.016-05:00

through the magic of Etsy Circles, I was recently introduced to this shop, and instantly fell in love! the jewelry in this shop is so unique, and quirky...with the materials used ranging from silver, to enamel, pearls, and even colored pencils...yes you heard me right!

these are just some of the designs you can find made from colored pencils- necklaces and earrings!

and what about zippers for earrings?

or a cute set of weather inspired earrings, handmade in sterling silver?

this shop just makes me smile, everything is so colorful! head on over and check out HiuYi Tan for yourself!!

for the OCD in all of us

2011-02-19T15:45:00.000-05:00

I LOVE to organize things...and if they can be color coordinated, even better! I found this image on my friend Juliet's tumblr site, and tracked it back to another blog, Things Organized Neatly...I could waste a lot of time on this site...

but look...look at the wall-o-colored pencils?! squeeeeeeeeee!!

Saturday's Photo

2011-02-19T01:31:00.006-05:00

since the weather seems to be getting warmer here...it reminds me of the weather we had last new years eve in South Carolina...here's the view from out the back of my parents house!

Friday Finds - good enough to eat!

2011-02-18T03:38:00.001-05:00

I came across this first set of candles, and they were so cute- like little cupcakes...and then I discovered that they indeed, had a sweet, sugary smell, topped off with sprinkles! the little multi-colored dot sprinkles, that are my very favorite!

adorable Cupcake candles by Mireio

since we had dessert first, how about some sushi for dinner? a taste I'm still acquiring, but these candles are really cute! you can get a sushi candle sample pack from Double Brush.

and to finish up, a nice warm mug of chai...candle by Honeysuckles Candles.

personal intervention...nail polish

2011-02-17T09:19:00.001-05:00

hi, my name is Lauren, and I'm addicted to nail polish...

it's true, one of my favorite things to do on a Sunday night, is to give myself a nice little manicure...just something to make my hands feel pretty, and to start the week on a good note...I obviously can't afford to have my nails done, and quite frankly, the process of having someone else file my nails gives me chills just thinking about it...but anyway...

I have a nice collection of nail polish- but lately I've been getting emails from Sephora, and they have these adorable mini nail polish sets...so you can try lots of colors without buying a whole big bottle! and now, they even have colors inspired by Glee, one of my very favorite shows...

I'm a sucker for color combinations, and these are some of my most recent favorites...

one of my awesome Christmas presents? this mega mini nail polish set!

What I'm Working on - first floor revamp

2011-02-16T09:26:00.018-05:00

when I first moved out of Canton, and into good old Pigtown...I was pretty sure that it was going to be a temporary situation...I never thought we'd still be on this block, in this tiny rowhouse, but alas here we are...and my need for change has once again reared its ugly head...so since we can't really do much in the way of re-organizing any of the rooms in the house (read: the furniture really only fits in one way) I did think long and hard about how to make better use of the first floor...

we have a kitchen table that usually gets piled up with "stuff" and not actually eaten at...and now that I have lots of studying to do, and just work in general, it would be nice to have a place to spread out if I needed...

also, in the solution of The Great Cat Territory Wars of 819...some new couch covers have been attained...here's hoping they solve part of our problem...

and lastly, the kitchen is now pretty much storage, but the room feels a lot bigger with the table out of it...since it might actually get used where it is now, I think it's a good move...now to decide if getting a better storage system for the kitchen is worth it...in the interest of how long we potentially will still live here, I think it might be time to hit up Ikea...

oh, and to get stuff hung up on the walls...time to make it feel more like home :)

*disclaimer* home will always be NJ still...no matter what :)

heart shaped candies!!

2011-02-15T13:37:00.000-05:00

and no, I don't mean those conversation hearts...I found, heart shaped Junior Mints!! one of my favorite candies to begin with, but as I was running through the grocery store yesterday, they caught my eye...so I bought two boxes...as a gift to myself :)

tutorial - pom poms!

2011-02-15T11:16:00.005-05:00

my wonderful and crafty friend Kollen of Design by Night posted this awesome tutorial on her blog- and it took me back to college, when my room mate Kait and I were big knitters...so naturally, we used our yarn to make fun pillows- essentially these pom-poms in a MUCH larger size...but I wanted to share with all of you, because Kolleen is the queen of tutorials, and these are just too much fun, not to make!!

happy crafting :)

for the step-by-step instructions with awesome pictures, click here!

Happy Birthday to Lizzzzzz!

2011-02-15T09:26:00.001-05:00

my Hokie, Zeta sister, and room mate in college, but most of all, my very good friend...hope you have a wonderful 29th birthday!! can't wait to plan our next visit!!

here's a really old photo! back from junior year...

Item of the Week! 02.14.11

2011-02-14T06:20:00.000-05:00

this week's featured item is...the LOVE earrings! these pretty coin pearls would make a perfect (okay, but a little late) gift for Valentine's day, or a birthday, or just because...simple and elegant, they would be great for a bride as well!

any order placed that contains this necklace until Sunday, February 20th will receive free shipping*!

*shipping cost will be refunded after the purchase :)

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T00:30:00.006-05:00

this awesome illustration is by Carolyn Sewell...her cool typographic illustrations can be found on her flikr site!

Favorite Etsy Shop - Diffraction Fiber

2011-02-13T10:32:00.029-05:00

another Etsy shop that I've had "favorited" for quite a while, is Diffraction Fiber- maker of pillows for any and everybody! these quirky designs spread the gamut from food to computer keys to many other kinds of nostalgia...and best of all? they're made from eco-friendly materials!!

how could you not love these whimsical pillows?! my personal favorite, is the peanut butter and jelly- not only a favorite lunch of mine, but also they do make quite a cute couple :)

but that's not where the cuteness ends...check out some of my other favorites from this shop below!

a pillow that looks like bacon? yum!

a fortune cookie...now I want Chinese food...

or a super silly spilled ketchup packet pillow

I'm blushing :)

2011-02-12T07:29:00.000-05:00

a big thanks to Christen of Love, Elaine...a friend and fellow Etsy seller, who featured one of my necklaces on her Valentine's gift list!

you can check it out on her blog...go on over and follow it!!

if you remember, I just had a lot of her goodies on my blog on Sunday, in the favorite shops feature...so don't just stand there...go find some handmade goodness for your love for Valentine's day - she's got gifts, ready to ship and can custom make items too!!

Saturday's Photo

2011-02-12T05:16:00.000-05:00

Jack-in-the-tub

Friday Finds - Honeysuckle

2011-02-11T09:53:00.027-05:00

inspired by Pantone's Color of the Year, Honeysuckle...I give you this week's Friday Finds on Etsy!

a cute girly bird by Vintage Green Limited

more vintage, with a glass ring by Wired Whimsy

a set of 5 cute cupcake cards by Sugar Paperie

Snowflake print by Capture the Heart

and even something by yours truly...the City Earrings, in Swarovski Crystal

another cute Valentine's Day craft

2011-02-10T10:42:00.000-05:00

what's better then a handmade card? just about nothing! here's another fun way to make some Valentine's crafts with kids, or let's face it...this would be fun for adults too! so here are two ideas to get your card-making juices flowing!

What you need:
Pipe Cleaners
Thick Paper Stock
Buttons
Hot Glue Gun
Pinking Shears

Love Card

Form shape of each letter with the pipe cleaners. Glue onto the paper.
Using the pinking shears, create a decorative edge.

Heart Card

Place buttons on card stock making the shape of a heart.
Secure buttons to the paper with glue.

this tutorial can be found here!

Thursday's shoe story .:. is it warm yet? .:.

2011-02-10T09:47:00.000-05:00

if you know me at all, one of the things you probably know is how much I adore the snow...I love to watch it fall during the day, I love to be stuck at home getting lots of work done because it is snowing, I love to make warm food like soup when it is snowing out, and I love when the sky gets dark, watching the snow flutter down in the street lights...

so why, you might ask, am I looking forward to warmer weather so much??

because Old Navy has adorable new sandals, and I can not WAIT to wear them!!

when I went gift card shopping recently, I got myself this pair...

maybe I'll just wear them around the house for now...until I can wear them outside :)

Color of the Year!

2011-02-09T09:45:00.001-05:00

who knew there was an official color of the year?? not me, until Jen informed me last week...and I got an email from one of my suppliers stating the same, so I guess it's true ;)

''Energizing Honeysuckle Lifts Spirits and Imparts Confidence to Meet Life's Ongoing Challenges'' - Pantone

so I better get some work going in this Color of the Year! if you want to see some awesome work in Honeysuckle, check out Jen's blog!!

what I'm working on - studyingggggg

2011-02-09T04:53:00.010-05:00

so as much as I'd like this to be an interesting blog post about what fabulous new design I'm working on this week, or ideas that I'm jotting in my sketchbook, this is what I am truly doing at this moment...STUDYING...

you heard me right, it's been a while since I've had to actually study for something...the last real test I took was in college in 2004, and before that, the last standardized test was in 1999, when I took the SAT...

so here I find myself, not really remembering how to do this, but I've got my Art History book, and hopefully soon my Art Praxis II test will arrive in the mail...

I've got until March 12th to know all that I can about art, or at least how they'll try and test me on it for this exam...

wish me luck!

a Valentine's tutorial

2011-02-08T04:49:00.000-05:00

I'm always looking for cute (and very important- simple) arts and crafts projects to make with my Kindergarten class, and I think this week we'll try this on for size...

cute Valentine's day garlands! I have plenty of spare paper lying around the house, so all I need is a hole punch and some string...

we can decorate our room, and then the kids can take them home to decorate their houses :)

here are the directions:

What you need:
Assorted Paper
Needle and Thread
2” Scalloped Shaped Hole Punch

Fold 3” to 6” paper squares in half and cut a half heart from the fold.
Thread needle and string hearts together through the top center of the folded paper hearts.
Using scalloped hole punch, make shapes from paper. Thread needle and string through the opposite sides of each scalloped paper.
Add as many hearts and scallops as it takes to raech your desired length.

tutorial from Real Simple

Item of the Week! 2.07.11

2011-02-07T04:29:00.009-05:00

this week's special item is...the City Earrings...in golden shadow Swarovski crystal! this design is one of my favorites, just sweet, simple, and oh-so-sparkly earrings....perfect for any occasion!

these earrings are really popular for bridal parties too!

any order placed that contains this necklace until Sunday, February 6th will receive free shipping*!

*shipping cost will be refunded after the purchase :)

A Quiet Night - Etsy Treasury!

2011-02-06T16:47:00.000-05:00

feeling very lucky to be a part of so many treasuries lately!!

Favorite Etsy Shop - Love Elaine

2011-02-06T08:24:00.000-05:00

this week's favorite shop is not only one of my Etsy favs, but owned by a friend from college! Christen and I not only both went to VT, but we met in our sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha, and are both originally from New Jersey! and now, to add to our list of commonalities, we are both following our creative dreams on Etsy!

her Etsy shop, Love Elaine, features her handmade tote bags, place mats, quilts and much more! she had much success over the holidays with stockings, tree skirts and gift bags!

some of her lovely items include this unique fabric wreath

and a perfect hostess gift- a wine bag!

and, a fabulous apron!

Saturday's Photo

2011-02-05T13:58:00.000-05:00

when I got home to NJ last weekend, I was met by a little surprise...an un-plowed driveway! needless to say, the Jetta wasn't about to make it over the 2 foot wall of snow, but a little shoveling and I was able to navigate up the rest of the way...

my little old car hit a big milestone on the way up too...145,000 miles!

Friday Finds - love for Maryland

2011-02-04T13:26:00.009-05:00

okay, so I know I should embrace my new home as well as my "home-home" so some Friday Finds that are all about the great state of MD this week...might look similar to last week's but this stuff is just really cute :)

cutting board by aHeirloom

pillow by love california

necklace by BEST's very own, the Broken Plate

my talented students

2011-02-04T09:23:00.000-05:00

getting into the swing of things and teaching an art program to the older kids at school each week has me working on more 'fine art' projects then just crafty ones...although the crafts are fun too :p so this week, we studied (and yes, I use that word loosely) pointillism, and had the kids make cute valentines cards using the technique...and here are some of my favorites...

I know one of them is not covered in cute little dots, but I loved the way it turned out! the kids love to paint, so I'm trying to work more projects in like this one...of course the potential mess in a classroom that isn't mine is definitely a terrifying thought! but at least they're having a good time :)