Holy Jolly Christmas

I'm so excited, I've been excited since mid-October, or maybe earlier. Yes, cringe, be outraged, close the window and stomp away from your computer in protest. I am one of those people who absolutely LOVES to see the Christmas stock arrive in stores, one of those who gets giddy when commercials are dressed in their Christmas-consumerism best. I suppose you could blame me for the ever increasing rate at which Christmas smacks us in the face oh-so inappropriately early each and every year.

I'd happily deck my halls on all hallows eve if the husband would allow me. Although, this year I have to sate my eager desire to dive head first into the Christmas spirit, mainly because we're moving into another home and while Christmas tunes and watching Elf in September is ok, putting up my tree and dismantling it all over again to move right before Christmas isn't ok. I'm also a little weary since my Monster is 16 months old and very curious and a through-and-through boy hence, I'm nervous that my tree and other decor won't withstand the punishment he'll most fabulously dish out. I am sort of hoping that the new surroundings of the other home will keep him preoccupied for the Christmas season, yeah, not likely.

Either way, demolished decor or not, I'm still skipping around singing carols (off tune) and watching our supply of Christmas themed movies, over and over.

Since I cannot decorate, or sing in public, and likely my readers have all clicked the 'unfollow' button and stomped away in a furious rage, I'll be silent now and leave you with a treasury I've been so graciously included in. Maybe you'll forgive me eventually.

Ole Ole Ole..

I'm captivated by this tote, 'Hockey Tote Montreal vs. Toronto" by Avril Loreti Modern Home Decor on Etsy. It is very rare to find anything Hockey related on etsy (in comparison to the other trends that prevail on etsy) and what I have seen doesn't really speak to me like this does.

I am a hockey fan, more importantly I am a Montreal Canadiens Fan. My Husband on the other hand is a Toronto Maple Leafs fan. Combined, this is arguably the greatest rivalry in all of the NHL. This has caused a very interesting dynamic in our marriage and household, with contracts and oaths of silence.

Anyway, the point being that this bag reflects our 'support' of the other's allegiance while attempting not to rub-noses into triumphs/losses. I love it. The vintage style reminds me of the great days, days of the Richards, days of Beliveau, days of Plante.

Not a Hockey fan? Avril Loreti's shop has MUCH more to swoon for. One of my personal favourites was this KitchenAid inspired tote, that's sold and I hope hasn't been forever retired from her shop.

Hungry for more? Check out her Blog for more current updates of what she's doing. Oh yea, she's based in Toronto. It's great fun to buy from fellow Canadians.

Trans-Canada Etsy Team

Finally, after what felt like an eternity on a wait list, I've been included on an Etsy team. Trans-Canada was my first choice for a team to join. There are more and more sellers emerging in NL but I wanted to be part of a larger active group that had been selling on Etsy before me. A team I can contribute to, as well as learn from. Looks like it'll be a great experience, if only I had the time to take part in every challenge, every meeting and commit myself in the way I tend to over commit to everything I allow myself to be a part of (I still can't decide if this trait of mine is a weakness or a strength).

Check out our team page, a new feature of Etsy; The Trans-Canada Etsy Team as well as the Blog, the Twitter, the Team Shop, and Flickr.

There are some outstanding artists, doing outstanding things across Canada, and selling on Etsy. I'll likely mention a number of them whenever I see something that really inspires me.

In other news, lots of treasuries in the past few months, very flattering.

Here's one I was notified about today, featuring lots of items under $20!! Just in time for Christmas!

Check it out!

Fall Disappeared

Fall may have disappeared but it wasn't lost. Maybe that's why I haven't posted, the reality of life took over my virtual presence. Here are a few photos of the past two months.

I created this cushion for my son, it's listed in the shop and fully customizable. Not a fan of Rainbow colours? Not a problem, choose your own. I love this cushion and am planning to make a 'line' of these along this theme for my own home, I may add more to the shop but haven't fully decided yet.
The Monster spent a few days visiting with my mom and dad, while he was there I took advantage of the beautiful scenery and got some fall photos of him. I love his lumberjack look.

His Halloween Costume, Don Cherry. I've been planning this costume for a year, and didn't actually get around to making a pattern and constructing the costume until the night before. I usually have to build something in my mind before I can make it with my hands. So, in my imagination I made this suit 100 times before my hands actually made it. I used a dress shirt he had and laid it out to help with constructing a patter the correct size. He was asleep by the time the pattern was ready and I was cutting and piecing the jacket together. I think I'm very lucky that it fit so well.

I wasn't trained in sewing, I've taught myself and have never really made clothing before. So I thought that hand stitching the suit would give me more control over the fabric and the shape I ended up with. There's something to be said for couture clothing. It took me about 6 hours to finish. I'm extremely satisfied with the end result, but am completely lost at a way to top this next year.

At the Park

We have officially 'punched' two weeks of holidays and have about a week to go. Yesterday I took the Monster to the park where he spent some time playing with his new buddy Louis and Auntie Kara. Louis is a big puppy, and it took the Monster a little while to adjust to him, but they're now best of buds.

Today should be a moderately eventful day, we went to my alma mater (www.mun.ca) where we knew of a small group that does a church-like devotional on Sunday Mornings (www.outportcity.ca). I highly recommend it to anyone curious or looking for a small social network to connect with. I truly miss my time at University.

Off in search of a meal. Have a beautiful day!

The Haze Clears on a Sunday

(our little family at the beach)

We have one week of our holidays completed, there is still so much left to explore and enjoy as a family. It is extremely difficult to ‘vacation’ with a 1 yr old, I never would have believed this statement to be as true as it is, until I experienced it. The Monster is so adept to his own surroundings, his routine is the key to my sanity, missing naps and being in someone else’s home (which may not be particularly child-friendly) are stresses that simply pile on top of the normal unpredictable irritants in a day of parenting a 1 yr old. The simple fact that he is currently cutting 3-4 teeth has made this experience a task for all of us.

The Hubber’s job keeps him so busy we’re really trying to make the most of these few weeks, as our little family is quickly becoming a grown family. We have been doing a nice bit of shopping, since it was needed and also a little exploring. Besides for Regatta Day and this Sunny Sunday, we have had all rain, so we had to take advantage of the sun before it hid away again.

Today we visited a favorite church that we only get to attend while on holidays, had some Starbucks coffee accompanying great chat, adventured to Signal Hill and got some fun photos and then finished the day off with a trip to Middle Cove beach to try and teach the Monster to throw rocks into the water.

(The Monster just LOVES being outside, the wind and sun thrill him. He's particularly happy at the beach in this photo, walking on those rocks are pretty big excitement for a baby.)

Looking forward to tomorrow!!

Royal Regatta

We are currently on holidays, a whole three weeks of them! As soon as we return home, we leave again for a week of youth camp. Hence, I’m away from my shop and having family adventures for the next four weeks.

It’s a little scary to have my shop in vacation mode for this long; I don’t like the idea that people can’t at least browse my items. Any etsy-seniors out there know if it’s poor etiquette to have a shop announcement that items won’t be able to ship for 4 weeks? I suppose it’s closer to 3 weeks now. I wish vacation mode would allow you to either keep items viewable, like they show up in treasuries, or choose to hide them.

Holidays are going well, we’re having a lot of fun with family and friends. We spent a few hours at the Royal St. John’s Regatta, and had the Monsters face painted and treated him to a little ice cream. The entire perimeter of the lake was packed with people, food venders, shop booths, and all kinds of games/activities. Then there were lots of people happily watching the races. One news station said there were between 40-50 thousand people there, felt more like 100,000. We didn't stay long, getting a stroller through the crowds was enough to break into an anxiety attack, but we did enjoy going and it was the Monsters and Hubbers first Regatta.

Today, we’ll be hitting Toy’s ‘R’ Us, which is still more fun for us than him at this point. Hope everyone's having a great August!

And check out another fantastic Newfoundland treasury by FolkyDolky called Shopping by the Sea!

Ode to the Fashion Masters

I wrote in February how the designers were bringing in the navy nautical theme with a vengeance. Ok, I didn’t say ‘vengeance,’ but it really was (and still is) slightly violent. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still riding the nautical train, as evident in my last few postings. But, designers are prepping their fall lines, and I’m seeing a lot of shine, shimmery golds and some rich purples. I’m much more a fan of grey and blacks, vs gold, tan and browns. But pair it properly with a jewel tone and I’m all in.

Here’s some highlights of the Coming fall;

1. I’ll start with a designer dear to my heart, Jimmy.. aka; Jimmy Choo. Check out his ‘Darcy’ shoe, how can you dislike a shoe named ‘Darcy’... I get Pride and Prejudice quotes just flying around in my head.

2. Calvin Klein kept his Fall 2010 line fairly neutral with some glossy fabrics, lots of black, and some shimmery grey and ivory.

3. The Fendi line show’s a lot of black with pops of mustard yellow and olives (which is very beautiful). But there’s still the shine and shimmer of some purple finding it’s way in there.

4. Chanel has a fresh and different perspective on the trend, with it’s line that debuted on the 6th of July. I can’t say I’m dyeing to have the purple dress with diamond pattern, but I would wear the gold outfit with pride.

5. Versace’s Men’s SS11 show has given us a lot of metallic grey and pumped in some deep purples, so deep without a further glance you’d pass them off as black. The Women’s show had models strutting down a metallic blue/purple catwalk wearing metallic purple mini’s. In my opinion, no one did this upcoming season better than Versace.

In general, these designers and others used neutral jumping off points, a lot of shiny blacks, camel, and some grey. But, accents were very purple and deep, with hits of Gold and anything shiny to add glimmer as we head into the winter months.

I’ve curated a treasury motivated by these color trends, leaning mostly on the dark metallic black and purple with pops of gold and mustard. Check it out here;

In light of this, and inspired by it, I’m looking forward to pulling out my beautiful velvety purple fabric and I’ve some gold threaded lining material I’ve been hesitating to use. Now may be the time.

Henry

Blogger and Safari give me anxiety. I HATE that I cannot resize the photos in the post editor. I may go a little nutty today, it's too warm and the Monster is learning to climb onto the ottoman to get himself onto higher furniture. I just turned around and found him up in our occasional chair with my beautiful bombay keepsake photo box in both hands, dangling over the side. I need the humidity to go down so that I'll be move even tempered and maybe grow some patience. I love that he's so adventurous but I'm tired of endlessly saying 'no no.'

On the lighter side, I've finally chosen the perfect button for this nautical inspired navy weekend bag. I chose a shell button to keep the nautical feeling unified.

I've named this bag for my late grandfather Henry who had a profession as a boat builder. I have saltwater in my blood.

The interior fabric is a really beautiful medium weight cotton with creamy white and dusty red (without looking pink) stripes. It has an almost weathered look. I've plans to list this in the shop soon, and hope to make the same fabric combination in a few of my different styles.

I am a Mac

I’m new at this.

They say “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.”

Am I really becoming an old dog?

I was a PC, now I am a Mac. I’m a junior mac with a lot of learning ahead of me. I have made a few postings here since I’ve apparently changed technology species, but I’m finding my usual tech savvy is completely escaping me and I’m like a diapered child fumbling around this machine begging it to show me ‘the way.’

I like knowing what I’m doing, when I was ‘younger’ I had time to play with new technology and make mistakes figuring it out. Now, it seems my time is much more precious, like every moment attempting to understand iphoto, finder, and gimp is moment’s lost to frustration and agitation. Don’t get me wrong, I’m willing to find out, I just wish I could have learned this new system before I had a screaming 1 year old (who is cutting his fourth tooth and very unhappy about it) and felt a pressing urge to succeed in my shop and hopefully add to our income.

Just thinking about this venture tires me.

Oh well, Mac, regardless if our relationship is a little rocky, I’m willing to make it work. Even if it means sitting in bed together watching youtube tutorials about gimp, and mac command shortcuts.

I mentioned in a previous post about how I can’t possibly invest in MORE fabric, here’s a shot of one storage area for my fabrics. My beautiful stunning colorful lovely fabrics.

In this photo (besides fabric) is;

1. A tote bag full of fabric scraps too small for my bag patterns, but some of it’s perfect for coasters, cards, pin cushions, quilting patches, etc. I can’t bear to let go of it. Some of it are remnants of fabrics I used down to the last small trimmings and don’t want to part with.
2. Some packaging supplies, easily within reach.
3. Colored Pencils ready for when creativity strikes and I need to sketch out a new design, or doodle something random.
4. My trusty ‘kitchen’ scale for double checking shipping weights.
5. A photo of a friend and I having a fantastic time camping, so that I won’t forget to have fun.

(Please forgive the drab wall color and boarder peaking around the edges of the photo. We are renting the house we live in, and don’t exactly have the freedom to paint).

I also have a small shelf with fabric, and two large rubbermaid bins with fabric I’m repurposing, as well as another bin holding larger bolts of fabric. I have a problem, I am aware. Here’s my excuse, I’ve often gone to a store, bought a mere meter of a fabric I loved, used it all and searched for a year to find more. So, now when I find a fabric I love, at a killer price, I buy lots.

Now I must punish myself for my indulgence and use what I have already indulged in. It shouldn't be hard to do, I LOVE the fabrics I have.

1st Birthday

My baby is now a toddler. I'm stunned at how this year has seemed to creep by at times and yet somehow it has also passed me so quickly. We had a stiffling hot day in a house without air conditioning, but we enjoyed it anyway. The man of the day;

Newness

I'm in the throes of 1st Birthday Preparations. I really need to re-movtivate myself to finish off this day with productivity of pumping out some 50 cupcakes. I don't think I have what it takes to do it.

A friend of mine asked for a small-ish formal-ish grey-ish handbag that she can wear with most any colour. She's attending a number of weddings lately, and something that's versatile for a 'formal' setting was needed. I've been wanting to get a 'clutch' style bag into my shop but also wanted it to have my aesthetic without following my current trend too closely. I have this love for fabric, and texture, and manipulating both in a way that makes your hands spontaneously reach out to inspect it. I don't know how much of my passion I have managed to satisfy with this new creation, but I am happy with how it has turned out.

This bag is about 9" wide and 5" deep, the handle is a simple 17".

I think it's one of the most soft, textured but delicately pretty things I've made.

Let me know how you feel about this new bag, would this style make an 'okay' addition to the shop?

Dreaming in Color

Thanks to Skinnerstudio for featuring me in this beautiful treasury! 'Dreaming in Color!'
The colors are so beautiful and refreshing. I love this composition, and I'm proud to have been included with so many stunning objects!

Because he's so handsome, here is my little man playing earlier this week in the yard.

Hope you're having a wonderful Sunday!

Lush

This is one of the bags I had been using the white and orange stripped fabric for. It’s a Nautical feeling Beach-Weekend bag that I put together for a friend and made mention of in my previous post.

This bag is actually wider than the typical weekend bag listed in my shop; the opening is actually 15” instead of the standard 13.” The base is the same, but I really love the shape that the 15” opening gives this bag. My friend really wanted a beach bag, and I thought the extra 2 inches would be useful for stuffing in towels, water bottles, flip flops, sun screen, and all the other beach random necessities.

Here are the Weekend bags I currently have available; Classic Black, Sabrina, and Selah. If you're interested in a custom Beach-Weekend bag check out my etsy shop and send me a convo (if you know me personally feel free to email me or contact me via Facebook).

It's my son's 1st Birthday next week, I should go throw myself into the preparations.

Check out some awesome kid's items that I absolutely LOVE on Etsy;

Treasures Under $20

I often tag my Pixie-Mini's as 'Under 20' because I LOVE to shop for a bargain! And the thought of getting something for $20 thrills me. I thought I'd throw together some of my favorites that are under $20 into a treasury to share with you. Here they are,

I also have a special affinity for red. Check out the individual items here; Treasures Under $20

Another treasures for $20, I finished this guy today, sold him and re-listed his brother. "Bogart Bag"

This is the fabric combination that I was rambling about yesterday. I'm thrilled with him, and the larger counterpart in the form of a Weekend bag that I'm finishing up for a friend. I hope she loves it, if she doesn't, I'll be happy to give him a home.

I'm also featured in a new treasury! 'Modern' items, titled; Modern COOL!

Allied

I fell in love with this bag, I could only make two. Both are sold. It's amazingly rewarding selling something you feel really good about having made. I wish I had more of the orange cotton lining so I could make more. I have to really use the fabric I have and not buy any more for a while. Maybe I should take a few photos of my fabrics, just to show the immensity of my problem. Is there a group for recovering Fabric-Aholics?

I'm currently putting the finishing touches on a very beautiful navy bag, with white and orange stripes, it has a very cute nautical feel. Almost reminds me of Audry Hepburn in Sabrina sailing with Humphrey Bogart. I'll post photos soon.

Solstice

Nothing quite thrills me like being a seller and receiving extra positive feedback from a buyer who apparently loves their purchase!

It really makes the hours spent selecting the perfect color combinations and sorting through hundreds of buttons, the possible carpal tunnel aches and long hours so very worth the effort.

Visiting my site and seeing that the number of feedback received has changed, sends a nervous rush through my body. I’m a mix of excitement and fear, praying that everything was satisfactory. There’s time when I read the comments and the rest of the world melts away for just a moment and I know in my heart that I have been successful, even if it’s this one ‘small’ task.

So, to those who leave extra special feedback to their sellers, here’s a loud resounding, heartfelt ‘THANK YOU’!

I feel like a broken record coming here explaining the rarity of my posts due to the busyness of life. Forgive me for stating the obvious.

I’m happy to be busy, the sun is shining which has awakened my joy from its horrid hibernation and I’m ready to embrace the world. Yes, that last statement reads something like a pathetic love sonnet that wouldn’t have made its way into any book or tale so it found its way onto my lowly blog.

I suppose I can’t help but sound jubilant and thrilled about the official changing of seasons. Living in a climate that actually changes temperature rapidly and sometimes without much warning, it’s important to soak up the parts you enjoy before they’re torn from you. Maybe I was meant to live in a warmer climate. I’d ponder this more, but I’ve already made plans (that exist only in my mind and heart) to retire or settle only 4 hours away from my current location.

I suppose winter and cold or summer and heat a Newfoundland girl may be just that, a girl bound to the land she was raised in. I’ve always found myself revolted by the typical jolly I-love-Newfie-land-ness that often gets expressed by those who’re from this province, and yet deep down could I dare admit I may be one of them? This thought may be enough to let fear and disgust for myself overtake the lovely feeling of joy I was revelling in only a moment ago. In order to retain my sanity, I have to repress these thoughts and believe that I have infinite years left to live in Vancouver, New York, Paris and Rome. Now that I’ve revived my expat tendencies, I’ll give you a peak at a new project of mine, please don’t laugh too much at my Newfoundland-loving and forsaking personality.

I’ve had some Newfoundland Tartan in my possession for quite a while and I’ve been wanting to pair it with this heavy weight corduroy that I had no real use for and couldn’t imagine that the earthen brown of the fabric would ever be translated into something beautiful. I had the urge to pair the two together, they seemed to complement each other somehow, and I’m amazed at how stunningly ‘homeland’ but modern the overall product is.

I haven't listed this in my shop yet, and I'm uncertain if I will. It's much more a 'local' thing and I doubt it would get much response on etsy. I may feature it in a number of craft shows during the summer. I hope to make a full 'line' like this experimenting with more earthtone corduroys. It seems to fit NL somehow.

I also have some Nova Scotia tartan that I have some plans for.

I added two new listings to the shop today, why not stop by and check them out. Have a beautiful weekend!

Mothers Day

I experienced my first Mothers Day as a Mother last week. It was nice to be honoured for the time and energy that I've put into this new role, but felt at the same time odd to be 'appreciated' for something that isn't new in the span of history. Giving birth is a trial, but one that most every woman faces at least once in her lifetime. Raising the child you give birth to is just as natural an occurrence. Obviously, there are a multitude of mothers out there raising children they did not give birth to, and this is to be highly commended (I was raised by my biological grandmother).

I'm not attempting to down-size the magnitude of the job itself. It's obviously a labour of love and full of sacrifice, but when frustration sets in, only a few moments away from the Monster is needed to remind me that even though it's a difficult task, it's a beautiful one, full of reward and lots of slobbery kisses of thanks. I wouldn't have it any other way.

I'm not the kind of person who collects a large number of trinkets or collectables, but I do have a little affinity for the gentleness and quiet beauty of Susan Lordi's Willow Tree figures. I saw this one, and my heart leaped, one of my favourite moments is bringing the Monster (asleep in my arms) to his crib, or when he's had a good time playing with his toys and reaches up to me putting his head on my shoulder in an appreciative hug.

Pretty Lemony

I had wanted to do another feature such as the stapler one I had before, this time I thought I'd place the items in a treasury. When thinking of something to focus on, I considered the beautiful yellow sunshine streaming in my window, and was reminded of my wedding, where the quirky song that we choose to describe our realtionship, 'Lemonade' by Chris Rice. Here are the inspired items,

I had attempted to link to each item and shop individually, but once again Blogger is playing tricks with me. To visit these items and view these shops please see the actual treasury here.

Featured in a Treasury

FolkyDolky created a treasury titled; "Shopping Local" it's featuring a number of Etsy artists based in NL. Check out the Treasury!

Featured are works by; IslandSweet, TrinityRocks, Myself - Crysto, Dallied, SweetAppleStudios, RetroReality, OPdesigns, Gcuff, TheStoreNL, NF2000, KristinaTuck, and HandmadeNaturals.


Here's one of Folky's items that I'm particularly fond of;

"On The Street Where You Live" (Limited Edition Lino)

Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism New TV Ad: Ancient Land (2 min)

I'm in love with my province, and I was super excited to see this commercial during the 2010 Olympic broadcasting. It has a mystical air about it that you can truly feel standing on one of our mountain tops or at the edge of a cliff as the waves crash below.

Smothered Mother

I think I’m being smothered by hectic routine. The life of a mother, wife and business woman (ok, that last one is a bit of a stretch, but I do still conduct business on etsy and I’m also dealing with some real-estate matters), is a life plagued with the mundane day-to-day necessary tasks, as well as the random surprises that seemingly intend to throw you off your game, or at least affect your balancing act slightly.

This is particularly meaningful a reflection for me this weekend. Sunday I’ll honour not only my birth-mother, but also the mother who raised me. I hope to think I honour them every day with the person I have become.

It’s truly a sacrifice of love to grow a child in your womb as well as raise that child from infancy. Both of my mothers have done miraculous things for me, astounding sacrifices.

This is also my ‘first’ Mother’s Day. I do technically consider it my second since the Monster was in my womb at this time last year, but not everyone would agree. I’m a little psyched; just don’t let Hubber know that.

Now I’ll go tend to the other random things demanding my time. I’ll leave on this note, I dearly miss the Etsy gift guides (and yet appreciate the gift-guide-esque postings in Storque) and never look at the Showcase slots because they’re rarely pleasing to the eye and the few times I have looked, I’ve never seen anything that’s drawn me to click and investigate further.

Navy is Back

Apparently Navy is hot, H&M knows, Guess does too (I could continue with designers, but I'd have to surf through my favorites and I'm tired). It's all over the place for Spring, it's time for the snow to melt, and for everyone to jump onto a boat and dress in Nautical Marine styles. Ok, maybe I won't. I will take a few rides in my fathers boat this summer, and I'll wear navy, although I won't possibly take the trend to a totally noticeable level in my own budget conscious wardrobe. But, I thought that it would be wise to mention the Navy-Movement in introducing Alice.

Here's a new item in the shop. Well, I guess it depends on what you might consider to be 'new'. It's been there a week or so now. This purse, Alice, is one of a small number of Mini-Pixies that I've made so far. The inside fabric is a plaid that I've fallen head-over-hills for and only had a small amount left, so I managed to get two of these little handbags out my remaining stock.

Check out the listing for the specs on this purse.

As for my NL features, I'm sorry it's taking me so very long to get them all posted. Please stay tuned because there are still lots of lovely NL shops out there that you should know about!

Hope everyone's having a fantastic weekend! As for me, I'm retiring to my duvet for the evening, and sketch some new designs! Good Night!

Mother-Housewife.. but not the cliche

Imagine this, back again.

I have a question, those of you who’re out there, mothers who’re balancing etsy shops, blogs, websites, consignment orders, household responsibilities and children, how are you doing it?

I know you exist, I run across your posts in the etsy forums, I drop by your blogs, I see your sales. I can’t imagine how you manage it all.

Do you have extremely helpful partners? My husband works, all day and most nights, away from the house. My free time, which is while the 7 month old sleeps, is spent with dishes and laundry, cleaning and cooking. I have volunteer responsibilities (which I LOVE) away from home, these take me out of the house at least one night a week.

Please lend me your secrets.

On another note, I did promise photos from my birthday. We had a lovely dinner at the Dockside Inn & Restaurant, and it was delicious, as always.

The 7 month old Monster, Myself and the Husband. It's complicated eating out with a baby, but thankfully we had a dinner without incident. Monster was sleepy, which is why there's no smiles in this photo, and he slept till we were almost finished eating.

From a World Brought Together as One

My apologies, again? I did truly hope to find my way back here before now.

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I’ve spent the past 2+ weeks completely sucked into the Olympic drama and excitement, and now I’m suffering from withdrawal. This in the midst of laundry and dishes, feedings and diaper changes, volunteering and visitors, has all kept me from politely updating my blog. Sadly, the business of life, the various events and excitement are the best things to post about, and who really wants to hear about those things way after it has happened. So don’t worry, if you’re a sports fan, I’m sure you’ve watched snippets of the Olympic games, or read sports pages online, or like some of the Canadians I know, lovingly and obsessively glued yourself to the television, watching one channel (sport) while your PVR (personal video recorder, similar to tvo, but not nearly as cool) captured the action on another. In light of this, I won’t document my emotions while experiencing the past 17+days.

.Though, I will make mention of LeBreton who unfortunately compared Canadians and their ‘inadequate’ patriotism to Nazi Germany and the Berlin Olympics. I’m too passionate about this subject to start ranting and allow down the walls that hold excessive emotion from exploding all over this page. Although, something tells me that LeBreton will not escape this ‘rant’ of his own without getting ‘burnt’ by the backlash. I also wonder if there was something besides what LeBreton mentioned in his article that spurred him forward in a ridiculous claim that our Maple Leaf can be easily compared to the swastika. So, LeBreton, if you’re out there, I’m sorry if a Canadian somewhere, somehow offended your possibly sensitive nature. Please be aware that we were not simply throwing ourselves an outrageous party (though we do tend to get overly excited, it’s a part of what most of the world likes about us, our friendly excitability), and I hope you do at some point, though this process and publicity you’ve either intentionally or unintentionally thrust upon yourself, realize that Canadians are not as easily likened to Nazi’s as you first concluded.

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I think I’ll stop there for now, for fear of saying too much and speaking from anger and a desire to argue (its instinctive).

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I’ll return soon, with something more shop related, I hope.

Happy Birthday, have a sale?

One of Etsy's many unique features to enhance the shoppers shopping experience is shopping by Birthday. Every day in etsy's 'buy' section different sellers are featured because of the date they've entered as their birthday in their profile.
The idea is to make someones birthday a little brighter by providing them with a sale. Sounds good to me. I did not make a sale today. Sadness.
Anyway, there are listed 741 sellers whose Birthday's are set to Feb 7th. Of the 8 pages I sifted through, I found myself on the 6th page. I wasn't exactly expecting anyone to find me via this method anyway, but I am astounded a little, 741 shops.
If every day has that many shops featured we're looking at a total of 263,796 shops selling on Etsy!!
Yikes, I don't know what number I was expecting. I know not every opened 'shop' is selling.
Anyway, I'm not here complaining, or even ranting, just rambling. I thought I'd post a screen shot of my avatar in the Birthday section, since I won't see it there for another year.

(hmm, an after thought, if people actually DID shop using the Birthday section, couldn't shops/sellers change their birthday date on their profile to correspond with each day, to consistently be featured? I have no idea if Etsy has anything to prevent this. Just wondering)

Anyone out there ever purchase from a shop they found browsing Birthdays?

I had a lovely birthday, I'll post some pictures tomorrow. It wasn't overly eventful, but an event all the same.

Happy Birthday, have a stapler!

Tomorrow is my birthday, my third 25^th birthday actually. In light of the coming occasion I thought I’d feature some lovely red staplers. I’m not sure why, but for a number of years now I’ve been wanting a Red Stapler, not just ANY red stapler, but a shiny new Red Swingline.

I’ve a love for most anything red in colour, and give me something red, shiny and used to organize, I’ll love you forever (some conditions may apply).

I'm especially a fan of #3. It's a beautiful necklace. I know it's not ACTUALLY red, but it's a great photo and I'd wear a necklace like that with most anything.

So, celebrate with me, by checking out some of these stunning etsy items.

1. Still Life With Stapler (Office Space) $19 from jctebeau

2. Red Stapler PDF Cross Stitch Pattern $5 from Nrapture

3. STAPLER sterling silver necklace $60 from BallandChain

4. Blank Card - The Office - Red Jello Stapler $2.99 from SureAsBlue

5. Swingline Stapler $30 from Moxiedoll

6. Swingline Staplers $20 from TopsyDesign

NL Etsy Shop Feature: Made WithClayAndLove

This current Etsy seller is one of my favourite shops on Etsy. The colour and beauty of her pieces are striking, and I’m always had a soft spot for jewellery! She has a beautiful range from sophistication to cute and somewhat whimsical with the ‘World’s Smallest Sewing Machine’ or the ‘World’s Smallest Amp’ magnets!

With prices currently ranging from $8 - $28, there is something for most anyone with a desire for something beautiful at a very reasonable price.

Obviously, I’m a fan.

NL Etsy Shop Feature: MadeWithClayAndLove

Please tell my readers something about yourself, where you grew up, where you’re living now, affiliations, personal stuff.

I grew up in Newfoundland, in a rural community. After graduating high school, I spent several years travelling across Canada, staying for less than a year in different provinces. When I returned to Newfoundland, I lived in St. John's, and have lived here since then. I am glad that I travelled, but Newfoundland will always be my home. There's nowhere else in the world as safe and serene to me.

How long have you been creating?

I have always enjoyed creating, even as a child. I have tried plastic canvas crafts, sewing, quilt-making, and of course polymer clay and jewellery design. I tried polymer clay over a year ago, and have been hooked ever since. That led to the jewellery design, and I enjoy combining my love for the both of them, creating a unique piece of wearable art.
How long have you been selling on etsy?

I opened my Etsy shop one year ago today! [December 13^th] :) Happy Etsyversary to me! <:-) I started out slowly, unaware of all the work that has to go into an Etsy shop (eg. taking great photos, promoting, creating unique products, etc). But I worked hard and I am pleased with my progress in the last year. Do you sell anywhere besides etsy? Where? How long have you been selling via that venue?

No, I only sell on Etsy. :)

What inspires you to create? Where do you get motivation?

I get inspiration from anything... nature, a tv show, clothing. Anything that grabs my attention inspires me to create something. Most of my ideas and designs come to me as I am falling asleep, so I keep a notepad and pen next to my bed for that reason.


Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.

Usually when I think of a new idea, I get working on it within 24 hours because I am excited to actually see my idea turned into a reality. I don't have a schedule for anything. Everything is completely random. I create whenever I feel like it, take photos when I can, and list the item within a few days of creating it.

Do you feel like you’ve been affected/influenced by the Newfoundland culture in your chosen art?

In some ways, yes. Newfoundlanders are known for their hospitality and I always treat my customers in this manner, going above and beyond to make them happy. Also, this beautiful province inspires me to create some of my items.

What other activities occupy your time?

I enjoy spending time with my husband and my two kitty cats. :) I love decorating, so I am always changing my surroundings and redesigning. I also love to shop, both locally and online!

If you could recommend one book, one television program, one movie, one song what would they be?

Book - "The Notebook"
Television Program - any decorating show!
Movie - probably "The Notebook" as well. I'm not a huge movie buff, actually. :)
Song - my mind is completely blank! Sorry! :P

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go and why?

I would love to go to France. It just seems so romantic and unique.

What methods do you use to advertise or promote your products?

I currently do not advertise, and the only promoting tool I use is a Facebook Fan Page. I find that word of mouth is great, and I have many repeat buyers as well. :)

Happy Day to the Groundhog

In light of the Groundhog, I thought I’d take a short break from the NL features and do a quick little feature on Groundhog items I found browsing etsy. It seems as though the groundhog isn’t one of the more popular crafted animals, but those who have chosen the groundhog as a theme in creating have done it beautifully. Check out some of these selected items below.

1. Groundhog Oversized Postcard Letterpress Handprinted. $13 from; http://www.yeehaw.etsy.com/

2. The Groundhog Ate My Peas 7, 1.7 oz of handspun wool yarn with a touch of silk. $15 from; http://www.feistywomandesigns.etsy.com/

3. Shadow Journal. $4 from; http://www.mammaroots.etsy.com/

4. Groundhog's Day Groundhog Amigurumi. $10 from http://www.moonscreations.etsy.com/

5. Brigid the Groundhog. $14 from; http://www.mammaroots.etsy.com/

NL Etsy Shop Feature: RussellPitcher

After yet another break, I’ve returned with another instalment of the NL Etsy Shop features. I will ramble a bit first, if you would prefer, skip on down to the feature and ignore my rambling.

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It seems as though the world is spinning much too fast, each day blurs into the next. I can never keep up on the million things that seem to be heaped up on my plate, and those are just the mundane day-to-day things. If only I could catch up on sleep, or laundry, or cleaning, or make more stock for my shop. I suppose with a 6 month old, falling behind on these kinds of tasks is understandable. Or maybe I could eat more chocolate for energy, I guess yogurt and green vegetables makes more sense.

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Today I FINALLY got rid of the random Christmas decorations that were left behind after I took the Christmas tree down. I was eager to get the tree up, and especially eager to get it down too. I love the beauty of putting it up, the glow, the cosiness, but once Christmas has passed, I’m thrilled to reclaim my living room.

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For the past while, I’ve been thinking about clutter and minimalism. I love a clean de-cluttered look to a home, but I’m afraid I have much too much stuff. Obviously I can’t just throw things out. First of all, I think something will eventually be useful to have, and most importantly I don’t want to create more garbage for our already burdened mother earth. I am at a lost for what to do. It’s not yard sale season, and most of it isn’t suitable for a yard sale anyway. I don’t have the time or energy to repurpose everything into something new and useful and sell it. I’ve already got a load of things to donate to Good Will. I’m thinking that’s my best bet for most everything. Most items are trash worthy, if I felt comfortable adding that much to a landfill (none of it is recyclable). It’s a conundrum.

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The shop, russellpitcher boasts beautifully crafted jewellery, figures and more. Prices starting at $10 and upwards to $50.

NL Etsy Shop Feature: Russellpitcher

I am from Blaketown, Trinity Bay, I lived in Corner Brook for 6 years while I was finishing my Fine Arts Degree, and I now live in Conception Bay South. I have three beautiful children 8, 11, and 14. I love sculpture and fabric based arts, rug hooking, drawing, and printmaking. I find it hard to only work in one medium so I jump around.

How long have you been creating?
I feel like I have been creating my whole life. Making one thing or another. I used to drive my mother crazy begging her to help me sew this or that.

How long have you been selling on etsy?
I am not sure I think a couple of years now, it is a great site.

Do you sell anywhere besides etsy? Where? How long have you been selling via that venue?
I am a member of the NL Craft Council and usually do the craft fairs.

I also sell work in various craft stores around the province. I am having an exhibit this summer with a friend of mine Sarah Feltham, at The Diamond House in Glover Town. I have sold work to the Provincial Procurement Program and have won the NL Arts and Letters Award.


What inspires you to create? Where do you get motivation?
I am inspired by my dreams, my children, my feelings, and my surroundings and not always in that order.

Please describe your creative process how, when, materials, etc.
I try to make something every day. I am working on a group of 10 sculptures now made from celluclay all of the sculptures will have a common theme; a little red house, a woman or human like character and something menacing. I am in the process of building a studio and can't wait to rid my house of art stuff.

Do you feel like you’ve been affected/influenced by the Newfoundland culture in your chosen art?
Absolutely how can you not be affected by the beauty of Newfoundland. I love the sight and sounds of the ocean, I love the old houses and the fresh air.

What other activities occupy your time?
I enjoy hiking, canoeing, volley ball, swimming, dancing, hanging out with my kids and going for coffee with my friends.

If you could recommend one book, one television program, one movie, one song what would they be?
My recent favourite book is "Reincarnation", it follows the lives of 4 individuals as they are reincarnated over and over until they get it right.

My favourite television programs are "Charmed" and "Star Trek". You know you love it when you would rather watch reruns than anything else on TV! Sci-fi rocks!

It is so hard to pick one movie but if I had to pick I would think "The Princess Bride"

I love anything by Sarah McLachlan.

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go and why?
I would love to go to Italy, to see the architecture and art I studied in school.

What methods do you use to advertise or promote your products?
I really need to get better at the advertising and promoting. Etsy is good but I need to add new work more often.