PERSONAL TREASURES

Support For Your Success

2008-05-20T05:23:00.000-07:00

Why do some people succeed in reaching their goals while others give up?

Yesterday I was a guest on Janet Taylor’s “Totally Organized” show on Blog Talk Radio talking about what’s really important in supporting your success. You can listen to the show here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/janettaylor.

The conversation covers lots of ground, including:
- how to set the most effective goals
- a chance to rate how well you manifest the traits common to successful people based on recent research
- what’s working for Janet as she pursues her own goals
- a visit with your intuition to check for inner obstacles that will put a crimp in your motivation
- how to set up structures to keep yourself focused, motivated and supported as you move into action.

This visit continued the discussion Janet and I had on her show mid-December about the differences between making New Year’s resolutions and setting goals that included information about how to set goals using the highly effective S.M.A.R.T. goals model. You can find a link to the original radio interview here:
http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/12/resolutions-goals-on-blog-talk-radio.html and you can find details about how to set S.M.A.R.T. goals here:
http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/12/resolutions-and-goals-part-2.html

Richard St. John, who conducted the research into traits that lead to success that I talk about on Janet’s show, interviewed 500 highly successful people to write his book “8 to Be Great: The 8 Traits that Lead to Great Success”. Here’s a link to an entertaining 3 minute video where he boils down his research into 8 words: http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/view/id/70.

I really enjoyed visiting with Janet again and she has invited me to return. On my next visit I'll talk about how to organize a successful job search.

Women & Money

2008-05-16T13:47:00.000-07:00

You're invited to a new series:

Women and Money
An interactive, collaborative series of gatherings for successful women and those who want to be.

# 1: What Does Money Represent To Me?

June 5, 4:30-6:00 pm
The Pyramid Club, 1735 Market Street, 52nd Floor, Philadelphia

Refreshments will be served.

Join us as we discover and transform existing views about money. Each event provides a lens to explore an important question about your relationship with money and will include the opportunity to learn more about yourself and share your views with other interesting women.

Hosted by:

Bronwyn L. Martin, financial advisor, Ameriprise Financial associated franchise and winner of the “2008 PA Best 50 Women in Business”.
www.ameripriseadvisors.com/bronwyn.x.martin.

Phyllis Mufson, Catalyst for Growth, is a certified life coach and career consultant who has helped hundreds of women realize their personal and professional dreams.
http://phyllismufson.interfaceias.com

Fee: $20, a portion will be donated to the Maternal Care Coalition

Space is limited, so please reserve early to avoid disappointment.

Call 610-444-8312 to reserve.

Jewelry Sale Coming on April 20th!

2008-04-14T15:58:00.000-07:00

If you Drool for Jewels……….....Then you'll be happy to hear about the upcoming online "Appreciation Soiree" at both of my stores: “Personal Treasures”* and “Mufi Jewels.”**

This event is exclusive to the clients clients who have purchased from me in the past. It's my way of saying thank you for enjoying the hand-crafted jewelry I create. . . and to enjoy more with your exclusive 25% reduction on any purchases made between April 20th to May 4th.

Write Appreciation Soiree in the ‘message to seller’ at the check out (or email me) and I will arrange your 25% refund.

Not a previous client? Well, purchase a piece of jewelry between now and April 19 and you'll be eligible for the sale!

Just in time for Mother’s Day.

What will be on sale?

*Everything at Personal Treasures http://personaltreasures.etsy.com, where you’ll find refined handmade gemstone jewelry in silver and gold.
**Everything at Mufi Jewels http://mufi.etsy.com, where you’ll find a variety of casual and romantic styles of gemstone jewelry.
• International shipping is available
• Gift wrap will be available
• New jewelry is being posted to the stores daily

New "Feet to the Fire" program starts May 12

2008-04-10T20:35:00.000-07:00

FEET TO THE FIRE – LIVE!

What do you want? Start a new business - or grow an existing one? Refocus your career?

. . . and how about that dream project you've been talking about for so long but keep putting on the back burner? Are you getting bored with listening to your own excuses?

Put your Feet to the Fire right now and know the satisfaction of seeing progress, getting movement where it was once stagnant and creating momentum where you haven't been able to before.

Feet to the Fire is an accountability group designed to keep you focused, motivated and moving towards your objectives. Designed and facilitated by Phyllis Mufson*, the group provides a structure of peer support, networking, brainstorming and accountability to augment your own efforts.

Feet to the Fire will be more than useful to anyone in transition, anyone who works alone, or with a long-unrealized task, including:

• Building a business
• Managing a job search
• Executing the next major move in your career or private life
• Stabilizing shaky self-discipline
• Doing what you want to do instead of what you need to do
• Organizing your time and effort
• Meeting self-imposed deadlines
• Working through fear and discouragement
• Bringing dreams to life.

Don’t think you can do it? Come on, take off your shoes and take on the challenge!
Feet to the Fire begins with an in-person meeting at The Mission Grill, 1835 Arch Street, Philadelphia that includes refreshments, followed by six weekly conference meetings by phone, an in-person ‘Idea Party’, and more. The first meeting will be Monday, May 12th from 6 – 8pm and the program lasts two months.

By taking advantage of this pilot program at $125 a month you’ll save on the regular price of $150 a month and have the opportunity to renew for another two months at the pilot program price.

For more information or to register, contact Phyllis Mufson at 215-545-7259, pmufson@comcast.net.

Kudos for "Resolutions & Goals"

2008-01-30T14:11:00.000-08:00

Mid-December I was interviewed by Janet Taylor of Totally Organized on her Blog Talk Radio show about New Years resolutions and how to give them more oomph, the differences between resolutions and goals and some tips on setting goals and staying motivated.

I just heard from Janet that that show is the most listened to segment on Blog Talk Radio and has twice been voted "Most Favorite" by the Blog Talk Radio listeners.

You can find a link to the original radio interview here:
http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/12/resolutions-goals-on-blog-talk-radio.html

And Resolutions & Goals part 2 with more details about setting S.M.A.R.T. goals here:
http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/12/resolutions-and-goals-part-2.html

I'm excited to have gotten such a great response and Janet has invited me back to be a guest on her show a second time on May 19th.

Red Tailed Hawk in Rittenhouse Square

2008-01-12T16:59:00.000-08:00

A Red Hawk has taken to hanging out in Philadelphia's Rittenhouse Square. As you can imagine many people gather to watch it, including my husband Bill. Here's a photo he took today. The hawk's tail is moving but you can see the reddish blur. Bill saw the hawk eating a pigeon a few weeks ago and has been carrying his camera around hoping to see it again.

Here are some other photos Bill took in the Square - http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/12/snow-in-rittenhouse-square.html.

Resolutions and Goals part 2

2007-12-30T09:35:00.000-08:00

In a December 17th post I linked to a radio interview about New Years resolutions and how to give them more oomph, the differences between resolutions and goals and some tips on setting goals and staying motivated.

Here's the post with link to the radio interview - http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/12/resolutions-goals-on-blog-talk-radio.html. The interview is around 45 minutes long and you can listen straight through or in bits - just press the pause button you'll find when you click into Blog Talk Radio.

I've heard from many people who'd like more info on the goal setting model I mentioned in the interview. So here's an outline on S.M.A.R.T. Goals.

"Need help staying on track and staying motivated as you take steps to change your life? Consider setting goals and tracking your progress using the S.M.A.R.T. model. The acronym S.M.A.R.T. stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time Bound.

Get Specific. While you might dream of getting in shape, setting a simple, clear, specific goal, i.e. to be able to swim laps for an hour or to be awarded a black belt in karate, points you directly toward the actions to take to reach your goal.

Measurable goals include a way to track your progress. When goals are measurable you know how far you are from achieving them and you know when you’ve reached them. For example, in the Weight Watchers program members track their progress by writing down what they eat, get weighed weekly and win rewards when they reach milestones on the way to their goals.

Attainable goals are goals you believe you can accomplish, that are a realistic stretch. Most people find it difficult to maintain motivation for goals that are set too high – or too low.

Relevant goals are goals that are relevant to you. They are goals that you believe in and that you are willing and able to work toward. When you choose goals that are in line with your values and in service of a vision of your life that has you excited you will be truly motivated.

Time bound means your goal is anchored with a time frame, i.e. “I will have five speaking engagements by September 1st.” Goals without timelines tend to get lost in what’s immediate and urgent in your current life. Commitment to timelines and deadlines helps you focus your efforts and make a priority of doing the actions that are important to realizing your goals."

Usage of the anacronym "S.M.A.R.T." with goals is not my invention. It's a model in common usage and if you're interested in learning more you can find various presentations of the concept by Googling "S.M.A.R.T. Goals."

Cat's Paw Artifacts by Judy Richards

2007-12-21T16:49:00.000-08:00

Judy Richards, the lampwork bead artist / jeweler with Etsy shop http://catldy99.etsy.com lives on the US 'left coast' in Portland, Oregon. Judy is inspired by nature and has some very sensitive and charming naturalistic animal, flower and figurative beads in her store, but says she loves abstract lampwork most of all. As that is also my favorite, Judy's abstract work will be the focus of this article.

The image header is of one of Judy's bracelets with great, cheerful color and detailed lampwork beads in profusion. It includes a sterling silver 'prayer' box charm, and another sterling charm with a kanji, which is a Chinese character that is used in modern Japanese writing. Perhaps a blog reader who understands Japanese will let us know what it means. The image above shows a choker necklace where Judy strings her lampwork lentil-shaped beads with semi-precious Turquoise. She also made the pendant which combines silver PMC and lampwork glass, a technical feat I haven't seen before. Precious Metal Clay (PMC) consists of microscopic particles of silver or gold suspended in a pliable material with a consistency similar to modeling clay. It can be worked to create a vast range of forms and surfaces. When heated to a high temperature, the binder burns away and the metal particles fuse to form solid metal that can be sanded, soldered, colored and polished like fine silver or gold. You can also purchase individual beads and matching bead sets from Judy. Here's a beauty with rich blues and some silver foil and would make a lovely pendant.

Judy says in the Profile section of her store that her dream buyer is the Sundance catalog. Are you listening, Robert Redford?And here's another bracelet where Judy's vibrantly colored and textured beads are set off with Turquoise and Swarovski crystal.

Judy is a member of the Portland Bead Society, the ORBS (Oregon Regional Beadmakers Society) and the ISGB (International Society of Glass Beadmakers).

Judy is also one of the members of the "90 Features in 90 Days Challenge" and you can read her reviews of the other members at http://www.catldy99.wordpress.com.

Signature Sterling - “Each day comes bearing its own gifts. Untie the ribbons.”*

2007-12-19T18:58:00.000-08:00

Signature Sterling is the Etsy shop of Sue, a soccer mom, jewelry making, Buckeye fan - http://signaturesterling.etsy.com. The shop features well-crafted sterling silver beaded jewelry, including some attractive, wire-wrapped rings like the "Berries and Cream" ring pictured above, crafted of Rubies, Swarovski crystal pearls and sterling. This "Dots of Fun" bracelet features black and white, handmade lampwork glass beads highlighted by sterling beads from Bali and Swarovski crystals. And here's some matching earrings. Sue also has a "HOPE" breast cancer survivor awareness bracelet at the shop, with $5.00 of each bracelet's sale going directly to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure. You can see it in the "Gifts that Give Twice article on this blog at http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/11/give-gifts-that-give-twice-holiday.html.

* The headline quote by Ruth Ann Schabacker is the motto of Sue's store and blog. She is one of the participants in the "90 Features in 90 Days Challenge" and you can read her profiles of Etsy artists and artisans at http://signature-sterling.blogspot.com.

Resolutions & Goals - On Blog Talk Radio

2007-12-17T17:21:00.000-08:00

The average person only keeps their New Year's Resolutions for 12 days... which can sound pretty discouraging.

But before you decide not to set resolutions this year listen to the radio interview below and get tips on how to turn your resolutions into goals you will really achieve....

Janet Taylor, President of Totally Organized and radio host on Blog Talk Radio interviewed me on this topic tonight. Here's the link to listen: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Janettaylor

To make it easier to follow along with the the interactive activity for beginning to develop life goals here are the areas of life mentioned:

 Mental - the functions of your find - memory, learning, creativity.
 Physical - health and fitness, energy.
 Family - your relationships with those closest to you.
 Social - your relationships with your friends.
 Service - what you contribute to the community.
 Spiritual - your relationship with the absolute - however you define it.
 Career - your involvement in your chosen field.
 Environment - your physical surroundings.
 Financial - your management of your financial resources and obligations.

Here are links to the resources I mention in the interview:

Online support group for people setting and achieving goals. The Bulletin Boards at BarbaraSher.com - http://www.barbarasher.com/boards/

Resources for finding a coach:
The Coach Training Institute - Find a Coach - http://www.coactivenetwork.com/webx?ctiFindACoach@@
International Coach Federation - Find a Coach - http://www.coachfederation.org/ICF/For+Coaching+Clients/Find+a+Coach/

My coaching website Catalyst for Growth - http://PhyllisMufson.interfaceias.com

Janet Taylor's Totally Organized website where you can sign up to hear about upcoming interviews - http://www.totallyorganized.biz/

***After posting "Resolutions and Goals" I heard from many people who wanted more info on S.M.A.R.T. Goals, the goal setting model I describe in the interview so I've written part 2 with that info. You can find it here: http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/12/resolutions-and-goals-part-2.html

Knuckletoes / Revinylized

2007-12-17T12:38:00.000-08:00

And the cover photo today is..........STOP .............. Before you read any further I want you to make a guess - and it would be great if you'd write your guess in the comments below.

The item above is from http://revinylized.etsy.com and it's by Katie from Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, a self-described "smalltime, jewelry, clothing and purse maker who wants to share her style with the world!"

Her "Village People LP Tote Bag" is made from a recycled LP, set into strong black recycled fabric, with a very appropriate pink cotton lining. The record has been coated in plastic to increase lifespan. At Revinylized you'll also find a Jane Fonda CD organizer, and a Saturday Night Fever sketchbook. You're too late to buy the ABBA CD organizer, it's already sold. So hurry on over to see many more of your favorite icons made into purses, note books and CD organizers.

At Katie's other shop, Knuckletoes http://knuckletoes.etsy.com you'll find PMS Apology Cards. Ever yelled at your family or significant other because you hurt so bad? Ever thrown the remote control or possibly the cat at someone's face when they offered you ice cream? Here's your way to say sorry! The card is $3.50, the sentiment is priceless. Custom cards with your choice of words or picture can be ordered for $1 extra. Katie also offers a selection of simple, mostly bright and happy summery clothes in her shop. This isn't what I'm thinking about right now, but maybe you're reading this in Hawaii, you lucky thing.

Summing up and quoting Katie again, "I was born in the late 80's, to a pretty normal family, and have been having fun ever since."

Katie is one of the members of the "90 Features in 90 Days Challenge." You can read her articles about Etsy artists and designers (including me) at http://knuckletoes.blogspot.com.

Mineral Magic Cosmetics - Hand Crafted Beauty Products

2007-12-15T12:57:00.000-08:00

I must admit, when I think of hand crafting, makeup is not the first product that comes to mind. But it is the brilliant idea that came to licensed aesthetition Kellie Peterson.

Kellie is the creator of Mineral Magic Cosmetics, a thriving and extensive line of products at http://MINERALMAGIC.etsy.com. Kellie has designed offerings with a wide variety of colors in tones for a wide range of skin colors and formulations for people with sensitive skin and vegans. She even carries Kosher products.

Here is how Kellie describes her products, "I take great pride in my makeup line and guarantee 100% satisfaction. Mineral makeup is pure, crushed minerals from the earth, that improves your skin condition. It provides an SPF (sun protection factor) of up to 20, depending on how much you apply. It is an anti-inflammatory for your skin, as well. Since these minerals are 100% pure, bacteria cannot be supported and there is no expiration date. There is also virtually no allergy risk. It won't clog your pores and is used as a mineral supplement for your skin."

Pictured above is Kellie's "Full Handbag" mineral makeup sampler set (in your choice of eye, blush and foundation colors) including a carry bag and makeup brushes. A color chart is below: At the Mineral Magic website you'll find foundation, gifts and kits, selections of makeup brushes and tools, sample kits, bath and body fragrances. Kellie recently added a group of creative bath and body products made by her son, Timmy and labelled "Made by Timmy" to the store. He's nine, and has autism - high-functioning. She is working with him in the store to teach him about business and how to manage his money. Above is a scented glycerine soap with toys inside, made by Timmy.

Kellie is a member of the "90 Features in 90 Days Challenge" and writes articles introducing talented Etsy artists and designers at http://mineralmagic.blogspot.com/.

Purple Snow Peas by Kathryn Short

2007-12-13T19:15:00.000-08:00

Kathryn Short, who describes herself as a photographer and all-around artist, is the creative force behind Etsy shop Purple Snowpeas http://PurpleSnowpeas.etsy.com. Kathryn loves to knit and crochet, take photographs while walking outdoors, craft small books for collecting thoughts, and anything else that keeps her hands busy and her shop reflects these interests. At Purple Snowpeas you will find handknit hats and wristwarmers, hand bound books, and fine art photographs and note cards.

The hand knit items are colorful and appealing, the books are interesting and sensitively designed, but I was wowed by her photographs, so they will be the focus of this article. Kathryn attended the Maryland Institute College of Art as a photography major and now teaches art and photography at the high school level.

The photo heading this article is titled "Mill Wheel." It is part of a series of evocative photos of older buildings in Northern Virginia. It is a Vandyke print, differing from traditional black and white prints in that the emulsion consists of iron and silver (as opposed to solely silver) producing a brown image. The print measures 3-3/4" by 4-3/4", with a brown 1/4" border around the image. This next Vandyke print is titled "Stone Barn." These prints are small, but very powerful in impact. Consider combining two or three into a single frame. The next photo is part of a series taken while Kathryn was travelling through Spain along the Camino de Santiago. This particular shot titled "San Juan de Ortega" captures hikers crossing a plateau on a foggy morning in the area just outside of Burgos. This is a color photograph printed on Fuji Crystal Archive paper measuring 9-1/2" x 9-7/8" (length by width). And here is another stunning landscape from the series titled "Navarra, Spain" the same size as "San Juan de Ortega."

I encourage you to visit Kathryn's shop to see more of her work, these images are just a sample, and also to visit her blog where she writes about knitting and Etsy artists participating in the "90 Features in 90 Days Challenge: http://purple-snowpeas-shop.blogspot.com/

CSerpent - A Love for Glass

2007-12-12T10:09:00.000-08:00

Susan is the San Diego based jewelry artisan behind Cserpent Designs http://cserpent.etsy.com. Her husband nicknamed her Sea Serpent during their scuba diving days. As Susan says in her Etsy profile "Picture a tall person in a purple and black drysuit with a pink flotation vest coming out of the water with big black fins on her feet ... yep, sea serpent fits!".

Susan collects beautiful artisan lampwork beads and part of her design inspiration is to share these beautiful beads with others. As she says "Sometimes I'll find one interesting bead or gemstone and that will be the kick start for a piece of jewelry." For example in the handsome blue and green bracelet above, Susan features handmade boro beads by Denise of Glitzy Glass set off with a collection of beautifully detailed sterling beads and findings from Bali. And on the fun side, here's a flirty silver pen that showcases colorful lampwork beads from Geoff Porter. This stunning bracelet features lampwork beads by Robin Weber, lovely green malachite and gold-filled spacer beads.

You can see Susan's work in person at a gallery in La Jolla, CA, "Art in 18K".

Susan also keeps a blog where she writes about other talented artists and designers who sell on Etsy.com as part of the "90 Features in 90 Days Challenge." You can read her work at http://cserpentDesigns.blogspot.com.

Celtic Goddess Jewelry

2007-12-10T17:36:00.000-08:00

Andee Harston is the artisan selling celtic and pagan inspired jewelry and art through Etsy shops Celtic Goddess Jewelry http://celticgoddessjewelry.etsy.com and home-crafted bath and body products at Sacred Waters http://sacredwaters.etsy.com.

Her jewelry is strongly influenced by her spiritual exploration and the natural world. Many of her pieces are designed for ritual use and in the descriptions Andee explains the imagery and lore connected with her choice of stones.

Andee's jewelry is romantic in style, inspired by diverse religious and spiritual heritages, but primarily her own Celtic heritage. The dramatically lovely headpiece pictured above is titled "Harvest Goddess Falling Leaves." It is constructed of mixed metals, pewter and sterling, amber, glass leaf beads and celestial crystal beads. Next above is Andee's "Tree of Life" necklace, a custom sterling silver pendant on a 36 inch chain with Moss Agate beads.
And here are her "Copper Goddess" earrings with Rainbow Moonstone accent beads.

You can find a further selection of Andees jewelry with in-depth articles explaining the background of her imagery at her website http://celticgoddessjewelry.com.

Andee's Sacred Waters bath and body shop is a new venture. There you will find a wide variety of soaps in customizable ingredients, scents and colors, bath teas in various herbal blends to calm or energize, and shower gels. They are all very attractive and Andee's offer to customize will be a boon to those with sensitive skin or allergies.

Andee is part of the "90 Features in 90 Days Challenge" and you can read her reviews of the other participants at http://buyindie.blogspot.com.

Holiday Tea and Treasures Sale

2007-12-09T06:36:00.000-08:00

This afternoon is my annual holiday show and sale and I'm taking a quick break to show you some new work not yet at my Personal Treasures store http://personaltreasures.etsy.com. For more info about the sale check my post "Holiday Show Preview" http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/12/holiday-show-preview.html

Above is "Spinning Pearls" made with some very fine Biwa pearls that I designed to spin freely when worn, but to lie flat when stored (photo below).And here is the "Garnet Diamonds" necklace with three strands of faceted garnets strung on a handmade focal bead, stations and box clasp of amazing craftsmanship from Bali.

George McKim - Explosions of Color

2007-12-07T15:41:00.000-08:00

George McKim is the award winning fine artist who shows and sells his work online at http://GeorgeMcKim.etsy.com. His work is exuberantly colorful, passionate, and intelligent, just the thing to enjoy on a snowy winters day like today.

A case in point is "Vacation" the abstract collage heading this article, that is inspired by nature.

Raleigh, NC based, George did his postgraduate study at Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture in Maine, has had six solo exhibitions and is represented by six galleries. The galleries include, Kipton Art, New York, NY, Art Reach, Albuquerque, NM, Eric Schindler Gallery, Richmond, VA, Art Source Gallery and Lee Hansley Gallery, both of Raleigh, NC. In Philadelphia (where I'm based) he is represented by the well respected Snyderman-Works Gallery. You can find his complete artist c.v. on the Profile page at his site.The print above is a Linoleum block print of a sunflower, in 2 colors, the background is printed a solid light green and the image is printed a dark green. 11" x 15" paper size and the paper is acid free artists paper. George has other prints of this image in different colors on his site. And here is "Flower Abstraction 2" a mixed media collage on paper based on the image of a flower.And here is "Springtime Explosion," a riot of lines, shapes and colors in this collage - another image inspired by a flower.

An easy way to get started collecting George's work is with artist print note cards. He offers note cards from any of his images (you can mix and match) including images from his website, http://www.george-mckim.com, where you can see a more complete representation of his current work. Note Cards are $3 each or buy a set of 5 for $12. Wouldn't these be a pleasure to have on your walls?

He also maintains a blog where he writes features about the Etsy artists and designers participating in the "90 Features in 90 Days Challenge." Check it out at http://www.georgemckim.blogspot.com.

Witty Workshop - The Charming World of Valérie Parizeault

2007-12-06T15:01:00.000-08:00

Valérie Parizeault is a talented illustrator and designer from Montreal, Canada and the creative mind behind the Witty Workshop http://www.wittyworkshop.etsy.com. Her sensitive and charming illustration is inspired by storytelling and the tender universe of children.

Above is Valerie's print "The Christmas Tree" that she describes thusly, "I love Christmas, don't you? It's not the presents (well, maybe a bit), more than the feast, it's the pure magic and that comes with every tradition. As a kid, I used to fantasize on how the Christmas star was made and I thought that it came with the Christmas tree; once the tree was ready, the star would appear dazzling and that's how we would know it was Christmas - approved." Valerie's latest illustration series, the Best Friend, features whimsical childhood pals. These illustrations in soft colors would be perfect for a children's bedroom or playroom. Pictured above is a First Edition print from the series titled "Koi." Each 6 x 9 inch (16 x 24 cm) image is a print of an ink illustration with digital enhancements on archival quality paper. They are signed, numbered (on the back) and packaged in a protective clear plastic envelope with sturdy cardboard for mailing. The watermark will not appear on the print.Valerie packages her work in a variety of creative ways, making it easy to decorate your child's room or even to start a collection. Above is set of six "Best Friend" postcards, suitable for framing as well as sending. Best Friend buttons that would be perfect pinned on a book bag and a Witty Works calendar are also available.Want to personalize your best friend print? For a small fee Valerie offers to personalize your print, matching colors to your child's hair and/or pet or room! Even more, you can have names printed with the illustration. Drop her a line. She loves to personalize her art to make it more a part of your child's world.

Valerie accepts commissions and freelance work. She is available at at vparizeault@gmail.com.

She is also the owner of Rose Flash, light and playful jewelry at http://www.roseflash.ca.

Valerie blogs in French and English about eco-friendly causes, Indie designers from Etsy.com as a member of the "90 Features in 90 Days Challenge" and her daily life at her blog Pot aux Roses http://www.pot-aux-roses.blogspot.com and about the ups and downs of entrepreneurship through her business tip blog Bite http://www.bitethebusiness.blogspot.com.

Let it Snow - Rittenhouse Square, Philadelpha

2007-12-05T12:55:00.000-08:00

It's snowing here in Philadelphia this afternoon and I'd thought you'd enjoy these photos, taken a few hours ago by my husband Bill while walking in Rittenhouse Square.

Holiday Gifts that Benefit Charity - Part 2

2007-12-04T15:15:00.000-08:00

Gifts That Give Twice," is the title of an article I wrote on November 20th about holiday gifts from Etsy.com sellers that benefit charity. The article struck a chord. It received (and continues to receive) tremendous interest from people looking to give more meaningful gifts.

Since that date I've continued to hear from Etsy sellers who donate to charity, so I'm adding a follow up. To read the original article highlighting sixteen additional shop owners involved in extremely creative grassroots fundraising efforts, including me, check the original article at http://personaltreasures.blogspot.com/2007/11/give-gifts-that-give-twice-holiday.html

Heading up this article is a greeting card set titled "Three Capuchin Monkeys," ($6) one of a large selection of greeting cards, custom animal paintings, prints and handmade jewelry at http://mvegan5.etsy.com. The shop owner Michele is the founder and leader of Etsy for Animals (EFA) and 10% of the sale price of any item in her shop is donated to the EFA Charity of the Month. The December charity is Little Angels Pug Rescue, in Pasadena, CA http://lapr.org. You'll find more information on Etsy for Animals in the "Gifts that Give Twice" article. Shop owner Tiffany of Lonesome Dove http://lonesomedove.etsy.com is a new member of Etsy for Animals (EFA) and above is her Stray Cat Strut Bracelet, a beautiful black bone kitty cat pendant is the focal point in a thicket of black and red African Zulu Floweret beadwork. 50% of the profit of the bracelet sale ($50) will benefit Boston Hubcats, a one woman operation that spays, neuters and vaccinates stray cats on the streets of Jamaica Plain, MA -http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/hubcats.html Here are three chunky Christmas Tree crayons - ready to give to your favorite little friend! The colors are swirled for coloring fun. These would make an excellent stocking stuffer, a gift for a friends' child, or a special treat for your own child. They are made of 100% Crayola (TM) Brand crayons and available at http://monsterbugblankets.etsy.com. 10% of all sales through this shop benefit hungry children in other countries through Samaritans Purse: http://www.samaritanspurse.org/ This sweet angel pendant is offered at Melissa Muir's shop KCJewelbox http://kcjewelbox.etsy.com. In memory of her daughter Kelsi, who was born prematurely due to preeclampsia, through January 1st, 2008, Melissa will be donating 50% of the price ($25) of this pendant and of all angel jewelry in her shop to the Preeclampsia Foundation http://www.preeclampsia.org. The description with the "Fair Trade Coffee Organic Hunger Bracelet" from Sherry Truitt Studios http://sherrytruitt.etsy.com states, "Hunger is not caused by scarcity of food in the world." 20% of the ($25) price for all bracelets in the hunger series support Doctors Without Borders http://www.doctorswithoutborders.org. The bracelet features Fair Trade coffee encased in a glass vial set into hammered sterling silver links. This mini-map-book (2" X 2") from Janet Catmull of Planet Janet http://planetjanet.etsy.com is covered with a map of France and a stamp of India, and has accordion pages, each with a map on a cancelled stamp from Australia, Angola, Ceskoslovensko (former Czechoslovakia), Polska (Poland), India, France, and Abkhazia. 100% of the price ($8) of the mini-book and of all items in the store will be donated Alzheimer's Association National Office http://www.alz.org. This charming Blossom / Bird pouch from Ni-Chern Designs http://nicherndesigns.etsy.com is fully lined with a handle and two slots for credit cards or ID. It is 9" wide x 4.75" tall x 3.75" deep. 100% of the price ($18.75) of this pouch and all the items in this shop are donated to the Prevent Cancer Foundation http://www.preventcancer.org. An interesting handmade lampwork bead, "Urban Jungle" is full of texture, neutral colors, layers of sterling silver foils and drizzles of topaz transparent glass. This dramatic gift for the jewelry lover in your life is from Sabine at Blue Water Studio http://bluewaterstudio.etsy.com. 100% ($20) of the price of this bead (and all beads in this shop) will be donated to the charity of your choice.

Holiday Show Preview

2007-12-02T11:34:00.001-08:00

Next Sunday, December 9th, will be my annual Philadelphia holiday show and sale of my jewelry, and of hand-blocked fabrics made into tunics, scarves and Pashmina shawls by wonderful textile artist Harshita Lohia http://harshitadesigns.com.

It will be at my friend Laura's amazing loft and we're expecting a lot of people. We're calling the event Tea & Treasures because we'll be serving organic tea grown by Harshita's father in India http://www.chamong.com.

So I have lots of new work to complete, but I thought to stop for a moment and show you some of what's new.

Heading this post are new Tourmaline briolette earrings at my Personal Treasures shop, http://personaltreasures.etsy.com.Next is a close-up of a wildly colorful ceramic necklace at my Mufi Jewels store. http://mufi.etsy.com.Finally, these are Coral and Vermeil earrings that I've just completed. I hope to finish the matching four-strand necklace today. You're the only ones who've seen these. They're not in the store yet. What do you think?

Dream On . . . .

2007-12-02T08:30:00.000-08:00

It's sleeting in Philadelphia today and I'm curled up inside, jewelling away to get ready for my holiday shows. I'm ready for a little mental vacation. How about you?

If you're starting to feel frazzled with holiday preparation, kick back with me for a few minutes and visit Mary Hamilton's ETSY shop Dream ON http://dreamon.etsy.com. Mary lives in Florida, studied art in college and keeps refining her eye and her technical skills by continued study with fine artists she respects. In her shop you'll find original watercolors, prints and greeting card reproductions of her paintings.

Heading this article are Mary's "Gulf Shores" notescards, a reproduction of her painting of that name. Snow white dunes with gently waving sea oats overlook the Gulf. These come in a set of six cards packaged in a plastic case and wrapped with a gold band. Perfect for a gift.Next is one of the cards from Mary's Florida Visions series, a set of six different painting reproduction notecards. In the Florida Visions set are birds, charming beach scenes and landscape images of the Everglades.
Mary also has many quirky animal images in her shop. Above is "Road Trip" an original watercolor from Mary's "Cage Free" series of "ridiculous roostahs." The painting is 11" x 15" and is painted on Arches 140 lb. watercolor paper. Next is the whimsical "Power Nap," a print of a mixed media collage. Paper is 8 1/2" x 11" card stock and the image size is 10 1/4 " x 4 3/4".

Mary also writes about art and artists on her blog "Dreams About Art" http://dreamsaboutart.blogspot.com/. She's a member of the "90 Features in 90 Days Challenge." Stop by and read her reflections on the artists and artisans of ETSY.com.

Darjeeling Paper, Ltd.

2007-12-01T13:12:00.000-08:00

Michael Gresh is the designer behind ETSY shop Darjeeling Paper, Ltd. http://darjeelingpaper.etsy.com. Michael is a man of many trades, a designer of hotels by day, craft inventor and schemer by night. He is a self-proclaimed "paper nut" who spends his time coming up with new and inventive ways to use up the stockpile of paper he's accumulated over the years.

At Darjeeling Paper you will find a variety of well-crafted, cleanly designed, greeting cards, calendars and hand-bound books that would make great gifts for co-workers, friends, or anyone you know who appreciates attractive design.

Heading this article is a photo of a four-pack of blank-inside notecards featuring four patterns in vibrant colors. The cards and envelopes are approximately 4" x 5 1/2" and are packaged together in resealable cellophane pouches. The photo above is of a hand bound address book titled "India Postage." You can keep track of your friends, acquaintances, and clients with this hard cover, elegant book. The front is adorned with a interchangeable nameplate, and features a beautiful India Postage stamp. The inside sheets are acid-free paper, and each lettered section has sections for 40 entries.These softcover mini-journals are glue bound and wrapped in paper by popular designer, Amy Butler. Each cover is made of double-sided cardstock, making these little books an easy carry-along, fitting neatly into a purse, or briefcase. The books measure roughly 4"x4" and contain approximately 96 pages.

Michael is, with his girlfriend, co-owner of DemiGod Studio, an eclectic duo of craft and art show afficionados. He started Darjeeling Paper, Ltd. as a way to showcase his paper goods, and to distinguish his work as a new product division of DemiGod. You can learn more about DemiGod at http://www.darjeelingpaper.com.

Michael is taking part in the "90 Features in 90 Days Challenge." You can read his latest reviews and learn about some great artists at http://www.darjeelingpaper.com/blog.

WOW - I'm featured in a Treasury

2007-11-30T07:42:00.000-08:00

Treasuries are a hugely popular ETSY phenomenon. Sellers compete to curate a page showcasing their favorite ETSY finds on a theme. And the administration chooses several treasuries a day to be the focal point of the ETSY.com front page each day.

So getting chosen for a treasury means both that your work is appreciated by those who know, other ETSY sellers who chose you from among thousands, and you may get lucky and wind up on the front page where your work will be seen by hundreds of thousands.

Here's the link: http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=17044. Treasuries are a fleeting phenomenon. They only last 3 days, and this one will vanish this coming Sunday at 1 (EST). So scoot on over and check it out.

Creative Sundries - Accent on Creative

2007-11-29T13:56:00.000-08:00

ETSY shop Creative Sundries http://creativesundries.etsy.com is the brain-child of Carol and Sarah Eshelman, a mother-daughter/friend-friend team from Minnesota who love to create, and also to find vintage treasures. In their shop you'll find over 100 items including jewelry, handmade cards, collage, tags, loteria-themed items and many other odd and unclassifiable novelties to stimulate your curiosity and creativity.

Headlining this article is an illustration from the 1924 book "How to Chalk Talk" by Harlan Tarbell, a a hardcover instructional book on cartooning, or "chalk talk," as the author describes it. This is one of many books full of quaint, mod, funky or otherwise unusual illustrations for inspiration, making collage or altered art, or what else? What would you do with these items? Please leave your ideas in the comments below.This is a box of 72 microscope slides. They are made of clear glass Carol and Sarah suggest they would be great for making pendants, or what else?This ephemera package includes ten pages of Japanese text. When I look at this I think, gift wrap. Any other ideas? They have more of these pages in Chinese, German, and French text.

Carol and Sarah are participants in the "90 Features in 90 Days Challenge." You can read their articles about ETSY artists and artisans athttp://creativesundries.blogspot.com/