W i R E D

Be Mine!

2011-02-11T21:04:00.005-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Believe it or not, our baby girl will be eight months old in February!

Lots of moms have told me how quickly they grow up, but I didn't really get it until now - it's amazing! She's just about ready to crawl, and has just recently started waving and clapping.

And what a little sweetheart she is!

Our new addition...

2010-09-30T09:32:00.004-04:00

WOW - I haven't blogged in forever!

We've been busy busy with the new little one,

but I just wanted to take the time to share a photo of our little miracle!

We are so blessed!

Etsy Baby Love!

2010-03-19T10:54:00.007-04:00

OMG - I am such a bad blogger. It's been more than a month once again since I've updated my poor neglected blog. Forgive me!

With 25 weeks behind me in my pregnancy, I have spent many hours perusing my favorite website (Etsy, of course) and have found tons and tons of adorable baby "must-haves". Thought I'd share with you a bit of my wish list today!

First, I just love the fabric and design of PolkaDotPapoose's Adelle Baby Sling. All her fabrics are so stylish and trendy - so that "baby-wearing" can be not only practical, but also a fashion statement! AND - she even makes a matching Chenille Burp Cloth!

I first discovered LalasPequenos more than a year ago. I purchased my first Newborn Noonie for my friend's baby girl, and have since gotten one for another close friend getting ready to welcome her sweet baby boy in just a couple weeks! I just love how cuddly and snuggly soft these adorable Noonies are!

Another shop that I've frequented in the past is MountainAvenBaby. The reversible dresses they make are beyond cute - I can't wait to see our new baby girl in one when she's big enough! My current favorites are the Branches Jumper Dress and the Aqua Marina Jumper Dress. (Check out those adorable polka dots!!)

I've also been admiring this adorable Organic Baby Quilt by KellyBeeDesigns! The colors are just perfect for our nursery (designer fabrics!), and I can just imagine it hanging over our cherry wood crib.

Etsy has so many handmade items perfect for a little baby girl...I'm sure my wish list will continue to grow! Have any Etsy baby favorites of your own?? Please share!!

~dana

Lots of good news!

2010-02-09T19:48:00.013-05:00

Wow - it's only Tuesday and I have a TON of news to share with everyone already this week! I think I'll start with the most recent, and build up to the big announcement. (If you're impatient, feel free to read from the bottom up!)

I was pleasantly surprised this afternoon when I found out one of my pieces is featured in an "Etsy Finds" article! The article entitled "Knot a Typical Affair" is a collection of unique wedding items - and I'm proud to say that my Champagne Diamond ring has made the list! I'm looking forward to the whirlwind that a little extra Etsy exposure can provide!

On top of that, I found my Garden of Eden Lariat featured on the Front Page on Sunday night. It's been quite a while since I found any work from Wired Design gracing the Front Page, so I was thrilled!
The 20 inches of snow we received Friday night into Saturday had us snowed in, and was the perfect opportunity to start working on the nursery. We've gotten most of it painted, our chosen shade is called "Seedling Green" - which is a light lemony sort of green. Here's an idea of what it will look like (minus the funky trees & leaves!) The most exciting event of the week occurred on Monday morning during my 20 week ultrasound! To bring you up to date - my 96 year old grandmother made a gender prediction for our baby when I was only 9 weeks pregnant. Since then, pretty much ALL of our friends and family have agreed with her prediction - myself and my hubby included! Believe it or not, the ultrasound confirmed her hunch - we are going to have a sweet little...baby girl!

~dana

Yes, I have been MIA...

2009-12-29T12:06:00.000-05:00

It's terrible that it's been almost 2 months since my last blog post. However, I do have a good excuse - an unbelievable excuse actually.

Here's the deal:
In early November, I started feeling ill. I put up with the strange syptoms for several weeks. (I'm sure some of you have alredy guessed where this is going...) I finally decided to do a home pregnancy test to rule out that (unlikely) option. Well - guess what?! Yep - you guessed it - I'm pregnant!

Now, if you haven't read my past blogs regarding infertility I'll give you a synopsis. In early 2009, I began a battery of infertility testing, which eventually resulted in a diagnosis of "decreased ovarian reserve/poor egg quality". My FSH levels were through the roof. Basically, the RE told me that I had almost no eggs left, and those that were left were no good. I had little to no chance of getting pregnant - and IVF wasn't even an option for me. In the spring, we decided adoption was the route for us.

Fast forward to September - it just so happened that I had at least one good egg left. Since deciding to adopt, we pretty much disregarded any cycles I might be having knowing that the chances were so slim. We certainly weren't "trying" to anymore - we were committed to our adoption plan and excitedly waiting for a "match"! You can imagine our shock when we saw the word "Pregnant" on the home pregnancy test! Initially, we were scared and very cautious. Knowing the condition of my eggs, we feared the pregnancy would not be viable, and would end in miscarriage. Much to our surprise, I am now 14 weeks pregnant, we've had several ultrasounds as well as some genetic testing and all looks great!

My heart goes out to all the waiting families who read my blog. I have thought long and hard about this post, and it's been difficult to write. Though this news is amazing for us, I know that it will be bittersweet for many who have been waiting months/years for a baby. My thoughts and prayers are with you all!

~dana

Can't stop...

2009-11-02T20:09:00.001-05:00

Perhaps you've noticed - I can't stop redesigning my blog! Too plain, too busy, too dark, too "cutesy". I think it might be a deep-seeded control issue. Anyway, I'm satisfied with this one...for now!

It's Holiday Time!

2009-11-01T07:46:00.008-05:00

It's that time of year again! Only 54 shopping days left until Christmas!

The 3rd Annual Pottery and Jewelry Open House will take place the first Saturday in December this year, the 5th from 10 AM - 2 PM! Mark your calendars!

Chris & I love to host this event as a way for us to visit with old friends, meet new friends, and help you all get your shopping done at the same time! Chris Gold from Pots O' Gold will have lots of pottery available for your viewing pleasure, from her unique barrel fired pieces, to her colorful functional pieces. My own jewelry has evolved quite a bit over the past year, so you'll find lots of new styles - classic and organic metal pieces, accented with gemstones and a variety of patinas. This year, you'll also have the opportunity to sample Tastefully Simple dishes and, if you wish, place orders that you'll receive in time for the holidays!

For directions, please give me a call at 717-577-7045 or email me at dmh0922@comcast.net.

We hope to see you on December the 5th! And may I be the first to wish you...
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

~dana

An update for the sake of updating...

2009-10-22T17:39:00.012-04:00

Sometimes I feel the need to update - even when there isn't any update.

We haven't started working on the nursery yet. I think the combination of the crazy weather along with football season will postpone that for at least a few more weeks. (Or probably months, if you asked my hubby the same question...)

My Etsy shop has been steady, so that's keeping me busy but not necessarily keeping my mind off all the waiting. (Tick tock, tick tock, tick tock...)

A real life friend (Christine Gold) and I are once again hosting a Holiday Open House to visit with friends as well as allow them to browse her pottery and my jewelry. (Her pottery is AMAZING by the way - check her out at www.potsogold.net!) We've enjoyed doing this for the past 2 years and we're both looking forward to it.

Other than that, like I said, no big news...but at least you're updated now!
:)
~dana

Home Study Update

2009-10-13T21:00:00.004-04:00

We've gotten final approval on our Home Study! The official documents are in the mail, on their way to us. We're now officially approved to adopt!

(That's your cue, future Hoff baby, wherever you are...)

;)

Good news!

2009-10-09T18:10:00.007-04:00

Ok - so it's not GREAT news, it's just GOOD news.

I mean, it's not "an adoption match call" GREAT, but it's good nonetheless...

I made an Etsy front page appearance yesterday. My Equinox earrings (dressed up in pumkin orange for autumn) were featured in the wee hours of the morning on Thursday. It's been quite a while since I've made the front page, so I was pretty excited! Check them out below! On the right hand side, next to the vintage tin cans. (??)

On the adoption front, we are close to receiving the OFFICIAL Home Study report - hopefully it will be IN OUR HANDS sometime next week!

Next project: painting the room that will eventually be called "The Nursery"! I had been thinking we might wait a while to start this, but you just never know when you're going to get "the call" and I don't want to have to rush and then end up missing out on the whole experience of decorating the nursery to prepare for baby.

YAY - this is going to be fun!!

Happy ETSYversary & a Weekend Deal!

2009-10-01T12:36:00.018-04:00

I can hardly believe it, but this weekend is my ONE YEAR ETSYVERSARY!

One year ago on Saturday, I began my adventure with Etsy. (Or should I say my obsession with Etsy?!) My shop wasn’t an immediate success, by any means. My husband confesses that he was a bit concerned the first few months – worried that my hopes for a successful creative outlet would be dashed and I’d be down and broken. Thankfully, that wasn’t the case and in a few months business was booming – well, sort of...

Then “IT” happened - my big break! (Well, my biggest break up to this point, anyway…) On June 15th, one of my pieces was featured in the Lucky Magazine Edits series, where Lucky editors show off their favorite Etsy finds. If you’re not familiar, Lucky is a magazine dedicated solely to shopping. Needless to say, this was an enormous honor for me. Since then, my featured Quince Flower Stack has become my best seller! Orders were flying in and things got seriously crazy there for a while. As you may know, I work a full time day job in addition to metalsmithing and keeping up with all the promotional and administrative duties that an Etsy shop requires. On top of that, my husband and I had just begun the adoption process, and were in the midst of working on the dreaded Home Study. Of course, the adoption process has been by far my biggest priority. With the Home Study now behind us, I’m looking forward to filling the indefinite “wait time” with lots of bench time before we welcome our new baby home!

To celebrate my big Etsyversary, I thought it appropriate to offer a special WEEKEND DEAL featuring my Quince Flower Stack. This weekend only (October 2 – October 4), purchase my Quince Flower Stack and you’ll receive half off a pair of matching Quince Flower Studs! Enter code “Weekend Deals” in the message to seller when purchasing, and I will refund half the cost of the earrings.

What I didn’t expect from Etsy was to have the chance to meet MANY talented artists. I have learned much, laughed lots, and enjoyed getting to know you all better! (Be sure to visit their blogs – see Blog list in the sidebar!)

THANK YOU to all my customers, friends, family, teammates, new Etsy friends, models, & followers. Your support means the world to me!

~dana

One hurdle down...

2009-09-26T10:37:00.003-04:00

The social worker has left the building - and all looks good for an approval on our Home Study!
More to come soon!!

Tutu's

2009-09-16T10:48:00.024-04:00

I just had to share my new favorite Etsy shop with everyone...

Introducing... Hannah's Tutu's
"Bringing fairytale & princess dreams to life for your little girl."

OMG - these tutu's are UNBELIEVABLY adorable! If I ever have a baby girl, I'll need a tutu for every day of the week! These are so cute I can't take it (and so affordable too!) But best of all, they're handmade, and that makes all the difference!

Here's a little bit about Hannah's Tutu's, from shop owner Lisa:

"The company started over three years ago when my daughter Hannah had some fabulous pictures done in a tutu! From there I made tutus for friends ...then a few other moms... then I finally made the plunge to have a website and come to Etsy now I work to bring beautiful tutus to you - I love doing this and its not just a job its fun to create for others!"

PS - She does Halloween costumes as well!

Do you think she makes them in big girl sizes?

Back...

2009-09-12T09:43:00.005-04:00

We're back from a wonderfully relaxing vacation in sunny Jamaica. This was a combination First Anniversary & birthday present for me. (Doesn't my hubby rock?!) It was nice just to have some time to ourselves.Just prior to leaving, I emailed our facilitator to let her know that we'll be out of the country and basically unreachable for the week. I couldn't help myself, and just HAD to ask if there was any recent interest in our profile. Her response wasn't exactly what I wanted to hear, so I guess I learned my lesson. ("Don't ask if you don't want to know the answer!") Her response was along the lines of "One EMom, but she doesn't seem to be committing to an adoption plan."

Hmm.
8-/

The Wait

2009-09-01T08:45:00.013-04:00

After about three months, I'm still trying to settle into "The Wait". It's by far the strangest wait I've ever experienced. It's like waiting in a line with no ending in sight.

It's difficult to resist drawing parallels (or lack of parallels) between adoption and pregnancy. If this was a pregnancy, I'd be just into the 2nd trimester. I'd probably be starting to tell everyone the happy news, I'd have an approximate due date, and I'd be buying baby stuff and decorating a nursery. I'd be planning for an event. I probably would even begin imagining what our baby will look like. In the waiting game, however, there is no due date as of yet. Not even a target date, or any sort of other date for that matter. When I try to imagine "our baby", it is faceless. It's just not "real" to me - it's almost non-existent. It's much more like a dream than any version of reality. As such, it doesn't seem natural to begin planning, buying, painting yet. All I can do is wait. For now, anyway.

Reading blogs of others who've been waiting much longer than me (6 months, 1 year, 2 years and more), the frustration that we could be waiting long-term is real and can't be ignored. I have mentioned to a few people that I would love if our facilitator would publish a monthly newsletter including some status updates. You know, "In August, we matched ____ expectant moms with waiting families, and ____ adoptions were finalized." At least I would know that adoption plans are being made, relationships are being developed, babies are going to loving homes.

I've often heard a quote that goes something like this "It's the journey, not the destination."
In retrospect, many events in my life support that statement. It's questionable if this cliche applies to the adoption waiting process. Isn't it really about the destination, the happy ending, our baby coming home? Isn't THAT the light at the end of the tunnel?

I just wish I knew if the tunnel is 3/4 mile long, or 600 miles long? (On second thought, maybe I don't want to know how long the tunnel is.)
One thing is for sure - my husband is going to get sick of me asking "Are we there yet?"

Our Timeline

2009-08-25T16:22:00.001-04:00

I've been working on our Adoption Timeline gadget, soon to be permanently added to the sidebar. I was considering including my limited infertility experiences, but decided against it. My infertility journey was super fast as a result of getting such a speedy diagnosis. As I read blogs from other women TTC via various fertility treatments, I realize that my quick diagnosis was a blessing, sparing me from the heartache that many deal with for years.

So anyway, our adoption timeline starts with the end of my infertility journey:

April 17, 2009: Final appointment with Reproductive Endocrinologist
May 20, 2009: Signed contract with adoption facilitator
May 26, 2009: "Officially Waiting" - profile published online
June 18, 2009: Profile "Life Books" ordered
July 29, 2009: Home Study Application Mailed

I'm hoping in the next couple weeks I can add "Complete Home Study packet mailed" and "Home Study interview completed". REALLY looking forward to "Home Study approved!" (YAY!) But most of all, I'm looking forward to the update that will go something like this:

"Adoption Finalized, Our Baby is finally home!"

Wow...that will be amazing!

~dana

Size matters?

2009-08-19T19:54:00.013-04:00

I have long hair. Well, long-ish hair. It's several inches past my shoulders. You really can't easily see my ears when my hair is down. (I'm going to make a point in here somewhere soon...)

I don't wear my hair up very often - it's mostly down. Or part down anyway. So... (here's the part where I make my point...)

Why do I insist on wearing teenie tiny earrings?

It's time to start making a statement with my ear pretties. (And no, I'm not going to start stretching out my earholes.) I'm thinking if you have long hair - size matters when it comes to earrings.

Here they are, now available in my Etsy Shop which is conveniently located right in front of you.

METRO EARRINGS

What is your preference - big or small? (EARRINGS that is...)

Life's a beach!

2009-08-15T18:48:00.025-04:00

Our vacation in Sandbridge Beach, Virginia in a nutshell....

Beach time, play time, biking, more beach time, time to eat, beach time (what can I say, I love the beach!), fishing, more eating, a little photography, play time, beach time, rain, pool time, an afternoon of golf (12 inches away from a hole in one!) a LOT more rain and a ton of relaxing. (Oh, and some more eating...)

I also got my butt kicked playing Connect Four with a 2nd grader, but I think he's some sort of child prodigy. (Plus he's a gambler - I had to pay him $1!)

I think I redeemed myself with the Scavenger Hunt though - my girl J (above) & I kicked butt, finding not only a piece of sea glass, but also the elusive sand dollar!
(Note to cousin K - will you LOOK at that hair? Still considering cutting it? I say NO WAY!)

The only downside - all of this relaxation was flanked by two LONG driving days, which were over an hour longer than they should have been! Got stuck in I95 traffic on the way there, and unfortunately ended up in center city D.C. on the way home @ midnight. (We hadn't planned to sight see at our nations capital at that time!)

Here are some of my favorite shots...enjoy!

Do you think you could say "NO" to this face? I was unsuccessful.

Yep - that's him - the "child prodigy". That's my story, anyway...

They're looking at a cooler filled with fish they caught.
(Not sure how that cooler is smelling today...)

No news on the adoption front, but will keep everyone posted!

~dana

Purchased, Listed, Refreshed!

2009-07-28T14:04:00.009-04:00

Let me begin with "refreshed". If you've visited my blog before, you probably have noticed some changes taking place recently. I have begun to transition my blog from a mostly metalsmithing blog, to a combination metalsmithing/adoption blog. Yep, that's right! If you didn't already know, my hubby and I are patiently awaiting our baby via adoption. More to come on this subject as events transpire. For now, you'll notice a few gadgets have been added - our adoption tracker as well as a few other things.

On to "purchased". I have only made one baby related purchase. I have yet to really feel the urge to start purchasing all the "stuff" we'll need for baby-to-come - it just doesn't seem real to me at this point since we are very early in the process. (Baby steps, right?) BUT - I did buy two burp cloths, and even that was a hurdle for me! Anywho, they are just ADORABLE and of course came from ETSY - love them so & I just had to share! They're made by Babymomo, and are on sale now for just $5 each! You would be amazed how soft these are...and they come in a variety of pretty pretty patterns and colors!

And finally, "listed". I have a few new items in my shop this week. Two sterling silver rings, set with fab stones I purchased from Halie (SirenStones) a few weeks ago. The first one is Montana Agate, but I haven't been able to identify the stone in the second ring.

(If you have a guess, please comment!)

That's all for now! Thanks for stopping by!

~dana

Shout out to Halie at Siren Stones!

2009-07-09T08:47:00.016-04:00

I recently purchased a bunch of cabs from a fabulous Etsy seller...
SirenStones!

Check these beauties out!!
They are all so shiny and bright - a great deal for the money!

(An even better deal after what I put her through the last few days!)

Here's my first setting - will be listed in my shop shortly!

A Legend Lost...

2009-06-26T15:39:00.002-04:00

R.I.P. Michael
"The King of Pop"

We'll still be listening...

Lucky? You bet!

2009-06-17T09:49:00.008-04:00

I almost had a heart attack when I was reading about
Summer Must-Haves from Lucky Magazine
and saw MY OWN design featured!

My much-loved Quince Flower Stack was chosen
(among others) by Jackie Nasser, online fashion editor for Lucky magazine!

The article highlights some fabulous summer fashions - be sure to check them all out here!

Thank you Jackie - you made my week!

~dana

Front Page Party!

2009-06-09T08:53:00.008-04:00

My lovely RIPE ring made the Front Page of Etsy last night!

It's been several months since the last WiRED design sighting on the front page,

so I amVERY thankful!

YAY!

~dana

New listing - and it's not jewelry!

2009-05-29T10:29:00.007-04:00

Yes, that's right! I'm mixing it up a little bit with a metal housewares listing instead of jewelry! I have been working this design for several months, and have finally had the time to put all my creative thoughts together.

I love the rustic, weathered look of this vintage door panel. There are at least four old coats of paint on it - shades of sage, blue, yellow, cream and natural wood grain as well. The numbers have been hand-sawed from a sheet of copper and attached with copper tacks.

I love that we have a UNIQUE house number plaque that fits our rustic style exactly!

Enjoy!

~dana

Alpaca Experience

2009-05-14T10:14:00.019-04:00

This past weekend I went to an Alpaca show to visit with a friend who breeds these interesting animals at a local farm. I was most surprised by the fact that these animals walk with their handlers on leads (sort of like dog leashes) and they walk NICELY. Seriously - they walk as if they're pets - not all bucking about and pulling. I could say they behave BETTER than many dogs I know!

Does anyone else think their faces resemble aliens? CUTE - but unlike any other animal I've met for sure!

Here are a few facts about Alpaca's:

Alpaca fiber is one of the rarest natural fibers in the world. It is used in luxurious clothing designed by some of the most elite fashion houses in Europe and Asia.

They come in 22 natural colors.

Alpacas are one of the oldest domesticated breeds of animals. Tended for their luxurious fiber, they played a central role in the Inca civilization of South America.

They are gentle by nature and seem to have a permanent "smile".

Alpacas are one of the oldest domesticated breeds of animals.

Alpacas are camelids, related to the even rarer vicuna, the llama and the camel.

Mother's Day Contest - FREE JEWELRY!

2009-04-29T14:31:00.031-04:00

The most fabulous Etsy team, (The Metalsmiths In Action Team)

is kicking off another ever-popular

Seek, Find & Win Contest!

The contest begins this Friday, May 1st &

will run through May 10th

(or when all prizes have been given away, whichever comes first!!)

Simply find the THREE hidden Rose Images in the participating stores listed on the MSIA website! and you could win!

<== Here's an example of the image to look for!

Close to 25 lovely jewelry prizes have been donated from participating shops and are available for you to WIN! A few of the awesome prizes are pictured below - to see the rest go to the MSIA website! My contribution is a pair of Sterling Silver and Copper Paradigm Green Earrings that typically sell for $25! (I may just have to make a pair of these for myself as well!)

Complete details can be found here: MSIA Mother's Day Contest Details

Good luck!
~dana

New Black Opal Rings

2009-04-15T09:59:00.008-04:00

I've just finished a few Black Opal rings that are so much fun! The colors in these stones are amazing - glimpses of green, some pink, purple amid a smokey blue background.

This one will be listed in my Etsy shop soon.

The one in the background (below) has been claimed for little old me.

(Hey - a girl has to reward herself occassionally!)

I love wearing mine with two

hammered sterling silver stacking rings on each side!

L8R all!

~dana

Weekend Sale!

2009-04-10T11:40:00.005-04:00

FREE!! FREE!! FREE!!

Free Sterling Silver "Just Enough" Stacking Ring

this weekend with any $25 purchase!

PLUS Free Shipping anywhere in the United States!

Who doesn't like a FREE gift?!

~dana

Welcome to Etsy, Pots O' Gold!

2009-04-08T15:48:00.017-04:00

This is so exciting!

An artist friend of mine has just opened a new shop on Etsy

selling her amazing handmade pottery in her

Pots O' Gold Shop!

Chris Gold began her journey with pottery in 1999. Her first pieces were fired in an electric kiln, but she soon found herself in love with the color, texture and random patterns of pit fired wares.

Chris' pieces are thrown on a potter's wheel, trimmed and burnished. Some pots are given a coat of a slip called terra sigillata to render an orange red color to the surface. The first of 2 firings are done to a low temperature (about 1800 degrees F) in an electric kiln. Restricted from firing in her suburban back yard, these pieces are fired a second time in a portable 50 gallon steel drum that she transports to the countryside. Hard wood saw dust, scrap pieces of hard wood, salt and copper are placed in the barrel with the pots and set on fire. The hard wood used as fuel and insulation placed on the lid of the barrel make a hot flame which gives the red, peach and black colors to the surface of the burnished wares and smokey grey and black patches to the terra sigillata pots. The pots she produces with this technique have a rustic, organic surface that combines with the elegant line of classic forms which she aspires to.

Chris is a juried member of the Yorktowne Craft Guild since 2007 and participates in several arts and craft shows in the Central PA area. Traditionally, Chris and I combine our marketing efforts and hold a "Holiday Open House" for our friends and families in December.

Please take the time to peruse Chris' beautiful work at Pots O' Gold on Etsy and also her website at http://www.potsogold.net/.

~dana

Rocks, Red Rocks, Something New and more ROCKS

2009-04-02T11:57:00.028-04:00

We returned from our vacation to Sedona, Arizona WAY late on Sunday night and I am finally getting a chance to share with everyone!
Our trip included lots of activities, all of which had a common theme - ROCKS! I was in awe of the magnificent formations everywhere you look in the town of Sedona. And the color of the sky - WOW - I don't think I've ever seen that color before. Our long rambling hikes allowed me many opportunities to try to capture the colors with my camera. If you are looking for a vacation destination with lots of opportunities to explore, Arizona is for you! From jeep tours and helicopter rides to shopping and dining, this place has it all!

This has got to be one of my favorites photos. Can you believe the hubby and I walked out there onto "Devil's Arch" for the photo? Yikes - looking at the pic, methinks I should have been more frightened! If you haven't gotten enough ROCK photos, check out more on my Flickr page! If you like sunsets - there are a few worth checking out!

So - on to the "Something New" part of the story. Inspiried by the trails, rocks (yes, I know...more about the rocks) and beauty of the Arizona landscape, I designed this Cairn in Quartz and Gold pendant. This is my first use of gold in my work, so I am really excited about it. The smokey quartz adds just enough sparkle to the textured sterling silver loop trail. This piece will be listed in my Etsy shop soon!

And oh yeah - can I mention the rocks just one more time?? We had the chance to explore the South Rim of the Grand Canyon as well. More beautiful skies, and of course - ROCKS! By the way, I took over 300 photos so if you're interested in enjoying more, just ask!

~dana

VACATION!

2009-03-19T15:20:00.018-04:00

I'm off for a little rest and relaxation by the Red Rocks in

sunny Sedona, Arizona this weekend!

The hubby will be golfing with friends, while the ladies enjoy the

scenery (and SPA) at L'Auberge !

My Etsy shop will reopen for business on Monday, March 30th!

I look forward to sharing photos upon my return.
Until then, happy handmade shopping!

~dana

Meet the Artist: Jodie Pastor of Lake Erie Beach Glass

2009-03-06T11:55:00.018-05:00

Meet Jodie Pastor from

The Southern Shore of Great Lake Erie

Fairview, Pennsylvania!

Find her on Etsy: Lake Erie Beach Glass
Be sure to check out her Blog: http://lakeeriebeachglass.blogspot.com

My first memory of sea glass is when our family would vacation at the Lake and at the Atlantic. I was ALWAYS walking with my head down, picking up bits of this and that, including shells, stones, glass, and even things that I probably should have! It wasn’t until I was dating my husband that I discovered I could actually do something with all the finds that I collect! He was born and raised in Erie, Pennsylvania, and we would often spend weekends up at the lake. We would picnic on the sand and walk the beaches together picking up pieces of this and that just as I did when I was a child. I saw another beachcomber wearing a beautiful necklace made with sea glass and thought to myself, “why haven’t I done anything with the glass and materials that I’ve found?” So, I began creating art and jewelry that reflects my own artistic style. Many techniques I’ve discovered myself through long tedious trials of error, while other skills I was taught by previous profs in my college arts classes and by other skilled metalsmiths and artists.

How long have you been making jewelry from beach glass?

I think since the year 2001?

What inspired you to begin your creative endeavor?

There is a very special beauty and sense of mystery that each piece of sea glass holds. Sea glass is historic in itself in that it may have originally been an apothecary jar, depression glass, a whiskey or bitters bottle, or something else. It is amazing that over a 20-year period of time our lakes and oceans can tumble it and smooth its sharp edges into rounded little gems with a unique frosted coating that cannot be duplicated by any other means. I am drawn to the initial beauty of the glass and the idea and mystery that each piece leaves to be discovered. My inspiration comes from the glass itself and the mystery it holds.

How much time do you spend searching for beach glass – during what seasons?

I try to go out as often as I can and in all sorts of weather! I go out at least once a week and the only down time I take is when the beaches are completely covered by ice and snow. A fellow sea glass friend of mine once told me he invisioned me out on the beaches with a hair dryer prying and picking the pieces off the frozen sand. ;0)

From your experience, when is the best time to look for beach glass?

Looking for sea beach glass from the Lakes is very different than looking from the ocean! I don't have to deal with the tide time lines! Lake Erie is like a big bowl and the waves go in and out all the time. The tide line may only vary about 3ft with in a day. Storms and seasons also effect the tide. I firmly believe that ANY time is a good time to beach comb the Lake's beaches. It is better after a good storm when the harsh surf as really mixed and stirred things up a bit!

Tell me about your most treasured piece of beach glass.

My most treasured pieces aren't necessarily my jewelry pieces although rings are my favorite to make. My most treasured piece is a gorgeous piece of amberina that has a partial star on it. It has a lovely gradiant color of yellow to orange and to red! They are VERY rare and this one is just gorgeous! ( I also favor finding marbles!)

Do you search areas other than Lake Erie? If so, where?

I have not had the pleasure of searching the other lakes, but I have beachcombed the Chesapeak Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, as well as the Pacific!

Is there a location that you dream of visiting to search for sea glass?
I'd love to go to Hawaii, Puerto Rico and even the UK some day to sea glass hunt!

What is your favorite piece in your Etsy shop at the moment and why?

That would be PHOEBE! I LOVE creating and wearing rings and Phoebe is my favorite! This style of ring has been a signature piece for LEbg over the last 3 years. I enjoy making the little ball head pins for these rings and Phoebe displays such a beautiful array of color that makes her so unique!

Who is your favorite non-jewelry Etsy seller and why?

Jayne Pierce of zJayne. She does sell a little bit of jewelry but it isn't her main focus! I've known Jayne for several years now and I so enjoy her art and her passion and her general attitude of life! I have had the pleasure of owning several of her pieces of art work including some custom assemblage art dolls using my grandmother's image, copper ACEO art cards using my daughter's photo, and her recycled T-shirt bags which we use down at the beach to collect flotsam and jetsam trash to dispose of! Find out more about zJayne on my Blog!

Special Thanks to Jodie for her time - and for spreading the Beach Glass Love!
~dana

Twice in one WEEK?

2009-03-06T10:06:00.005-05:00

I am feeling very thankful this week!

Admin picked my Quince Flower Stack for the Etsy Front Page on Thursday!

~dana

YAY! Front page!

2009-03-04T06:47:00.004-05:00

I was thrilled to see my "New Moss Ring" on Etsy's Front Page yesterday afternoon!
What a nice surprise for a Tuesday!

~dana

Handmade in PA (HiP) Blog Carnival Time!

2009-02-27T10:22:00.048-05:00

I'm now a proud member of the Etsy Team Handmade in PA "HiP" - super cool name, right??

Welcome to our Blog Carnival!

Thanks to Melanie at Turtlebunnylove & Spreadthelove for this cool artwork! ==>

I'm PA Proud!! I'm willing to bet that Pennsylvania is not a state that brings a specific picture to your mind. Mention Florida, and images of beaches and amusement parks come to mind. For Maine, maybe ski slopes and lobsters. Pennsylvania, on the other hand, offers such a wide variety of relatively undiscovered beauty. From roadside markets to mountains, rolling hills to riverbanks, Penn State Football to Amish Buggies - Pennsylvania has it all! And the best of PA? This state is just bursting with TALENTED artisans!

This weekend, many of the talented members of HiP are offering handmade specials just for you - now through Monday, March 2nd!

My special is a single FREE "Never Enough Sterling Silver Stacking Ring" with each purchase! To qualify, just mention HiP (and your ring size) in the Notes to Seller when you order anything from my Etsy Store between now and Monday, March 2nd!

The Cora Playground Etsy Project

2009-02-23T15:00:00.010-05:00

I recently read a story on the Storque (Etsy's Blog) about Cora, a 10-month-old from Kansas who was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, and passed away only 3 weeks later.

Many Etsy sellers felt the need to help, and decided to begin making items to help raise money to build a playground. More than 50 shops have lovingly donated items to benefit the project.

Now you can help too! Please take the time to browse the Cora Paige Listings, and consider purchasing a handmade item for this wonderful cause.

For more information, please go to http://corapaige.blogspot.com/.

Showing Off

2009-02-03T10:10:00.017-05:00

I've finally taken a little time out to design some new pieces. (Between the oodles of Stacking Ring orders I've been filling!) I'm LOVING working with the many new gemstones that I've been ordering. In fact, I think I'm addicted - I'm ordering almost weekly at this point. But how can I resist all that *sparkle*? The possibilities are endless with these gemstone rings along with sterling and copper stacking rings. A gemstone ring for every outfit - you can't beat that!

I've also dug out some cabachons that have been stored all alone in a basket for quite some time now. This one is a fabulous large bauble - a Lavender Amethyst with a substantial measurement of 12x10 mm! I love the smoothness of the stone as well as the muted, glassy purple color. It's framed by silver bead wire and finished with a floral band - perfectly Victorian! The name "Lavandis Provence" is a type of French Lavender with wonderfully fragrant light purplish blooms.

The Everbloom pendant is a new addition too. The inspiration for this piece seems to be my yearning for springtime! I know this little red bloom is climbing up a perfectly rustic fence post - somewhere. (Clearly not here in Pennsylvania unfortunately! Here the weather has been continually cold, however we haven't yet been able to enjoy a fresh blanket of snow amidst all the sleet and freezing rain!) But I know that somewhere my flower blooms for me! For now, I'm going to put another layer on...BRR!

~dana

Etsy Love

2009-01-16T16:48:00.027-05:00

Welcome to my brand new, bright, shiny blog! I am dedicating my first BLOG entry to my new found love (or addiction, depending on how you look at it) - the wonderful world of Etsy!

Early in the 2008 holiday season, I made a personal commitment to purchase *mostly* handmade gifts for my loved ones. Of course, this was not always possible. Case in point: my teen/tween nephews would not have been very happy with me had I skipped their requested Wii Fit and instead opted for handmade scarves! But overall, the majority of my purchases were made on Etsy, and I feel my friends and family appreciated the quality of the handmade items they received.

Here are a few of my favorite purchases.

This adorable "Mod Trees & Dots" jumper frommountainavenbaby is reversible! (Brilliant, right?!) The other side of the fabric is brown with white polka dots. I actually purchased this dress for a friend's baby girl - she wasn't even born when I made the purchase. She's finally here, and I can't wait to see her in this!

How cool are these "Barnwood Picture Frames" from paradisehilldesigns? Perfectly rustic, they look great paired with a classic black and white photo. For me, it was a photo of my father and I on my wedding day.

For my mother, it had to be Stemless Wine Glasses made from recycled wine bottles - by bodhicitta! These got alot of attention on Christmas Day, and they have been getting alot of use since then too! What a great way to GO GREEN!!

For several of my friends, I opted for the customizable 4-Ever Print by SilhouetteBlue.
Available in 9 vibrant colors, this print looks perfect placed in a rustic outdoorsy frame or a modern clean-lined frame!

I just HAD to have one of these "Newborn N O O N I E S" from lalaspequenos! I gave this as a gift at a baby shower - to the same friend who got the little dress above. All the ladies adored it, and couldn't believe how soft it was. There are many different fabric choices, so there's sure to be one that's perfect for your little angel!

Who knew how much fun "Needle Felted Wool Acorns" could be? These babies by truLuxe are available in a myriad of colors.
The acorns I ordered had tiny brown ribbon attached to them - perfect for tying onto fancy packages! I envision many many acorns living in a pretty bowl on my living room table. The fear of my dogs devouring them when I'm not watching is the only thing holding me back!

Happy Etsy Shopping to all!