tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67873863283927048262024-03-19T00:31:00.377-04:00Divine3DesignsHandmade Artisan Jewelry: I love designing and makeing jewelry from gold, silver, copper, brass, stainless steel, etc. and gemstones. I blog about my work and interests.Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-16012040900625138002010-07-27T12:51:00.001-04:002010-07-27T12:52:41.034-04:00Forming and Texturing Copper<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidrA0GTDsXYsPHU7QVIpKfXglwXHak8CsXcEAPR-yn9rzm4IWCl8NgJZTNh_ejxlOoj_gyl5l4qiNuNWTyKOIvDtXtJ2ZM3JKK99lGefew6PtG_oOFF3QJ9Qa5OPBW34g_X3YpIkCvL5k/s1600/IMG_2051.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidrA0GTDsXYsPHU7QVIpKfXglwXHak8CsXcEAPR-yn9rzm4IWCl8NgJZTNh_ejxlOoj_gyl5l4qiNuNWTyKOIvDtXtJ2ZM3JKK99lGefew6PtG_oOFF3QJ9Qa5OPBW34g_X3YpIkCvL5k/s400/IMG_2051.JPG" /></a> </div><br />
My yearly trek to William Holland School of Lapidary arts always results in some very much needed relaxation, enjoyment and inspiration. I enjoy seeing what all the students and teachers are wearing because most of their jewelry is hand made and their personal favorites. The copper bracelet was fashioned after one that one of the instructors was sporting and everyone was oogling over. It uses fold forming techniques and hammered textures. I bought three wonderful new hammers with two textures on each one. <br />
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The earrings were done with a brass texture plate made for PMC but used here with annealed copper and the roller mill. <br />
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Everyone says that copper is the "new" silver since silver prices continue to climb. I have always loved to combine metals and love the look of antiqued copper. Copper has that wonderful casual spunk about it. It seems substantial and earthy and looks grat against all skin tomes- especially when you have a tan!<br />
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img align="middle" alt="Posted by Picasa" border="0" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" style="-moz-background-clip: border; -moz-background-inline-policy: continuous; -moz-background-origin: padding; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; border: 0px none; padding: 0px;" /></a></div>Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-82257620002715977032010-06-18T14:33:00.000-04:002010-06-18T14:33:54.662-04:00Controversy Sells<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OqVCkeUUZYI/Sub9l54m55I/AAAAAAAAAjc/MyyrOWpNyL8/s1600/BHHollow+088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OqVCkeUUZYI/Sub9l54m55I/AAAAAAAAAjc/MyyrOWpNyL8/s320/BHHollow+088.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Yes, there is no doubt about it- where there is controversy - people pay attention! Just look at the news, for example. People tune in when there is something going on that will arouse a reaction in them- especially something where everyone is taking sides or there is mass outrage.<br />
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The oil spill has everyone wanting to put in their two cents as to what needs to be done, who dropped the ball, what the right solution is, or who to blame, etc. The only ones not getting into the fracas are probably the ones who know they were responsible for the problem!<br />
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Obviously there will be marketers out there - Goal- make some money off the problems. There are probably oil spill t-shirts, caps, cups, souvenirs etc. I'm sure someone could take a tiny bottle (you've seen them with teeny corks) and put some of the beach sludge in them. People could (and would) probably wear them to show their support for the cleanup- you know- "I picked up my share of sludge" ..... Makes me think "If you make it- they will buy it!" <br />
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I don't subscribe to making money off of other's misery - and there is no doubt that there is much suffering both economic and health wise going on in that region. So why do some people do it? What are your feelings on this behavior?Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-906240281914850532010-06-07T18:56:00.000-04:002010-06-07T18:56:22.726-04:00Orchids!<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Orchids are so incredibly easy to care for and grow! Did you know that the flowers bloom for weeks at a time? Mine bloom all year long and right now they are really putting on a show! I thought I would share them with you in the collage below. There are quite a few sites that you can go to to get information on them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhosnS1MO5tefVZAB19q9PClQTxMOjY5z_Cm-WwyVzT54PeucnRPcNNWlh681CTvMuCTGw46q6Kf3le9feXoM_q9Br8F5PSAZTQ_zjzvv_eF6jF2wBklw9c8gmnJPpaI0NVlSXygTQ3LRA/s1600/2010_06_06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhosnS1MO5tefVZAB19q9PClQTxMOjY5z_Cm-WwyVzT54PeucnRPcNNWlh681CTvMuCTGw46q6Kf3le9feXoM_q9Br8F5PSAZTQ_zjzvv_eF6jF2wBklw9c8gmnJPpaI0NVlSXygTQ3LRA/s640/2010_06_06.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-65257908803245954302010-05-07T15:47:00.000-04:002010-05-07T15:47:04.516-04:00Trauma,Fear and Peace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OqVCkeUUZYI/S-Rq6EwZ44I/AAAAAAAAB0M/9PbAB_Sf3dA/s1600/IMG_1525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OqVCkeUUZYI/S-Rq6EwZ44I/AAAAAAAAB0M/9PbAB_Sf3dA/s320/IMG_1525.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Hi everyone! Sorry I've been away from the blogger for a while.....sometimes life just does you like that. We've all had a really busy spring and then we had some family trauma recently when my daughter got very ill. When your kids are ill- you just drop everything else ..... and do your best to take care of them......and sneak in the normal chores you have to do to survive. <br />
I took the photo at left, just outside my back door a few days ago. Such a peaceful sunset behind the old walnut tree. The sky was incredible and reminded me that through all of our troubles, God can drop something incredibly beautiful on us to sooth our souls and thank him for His incredible grace and majesty! I'll try to get back to the business of this blog soon but right now I just want to sigh.....Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-26699031766319905942010-02-15T14:33:00.001-05:002010-02-15T14:36:38.894-05:00I love Vintage silver and Jewelry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3VNxD2whmQ6UxDpLFT4Q9szyjjMf-cpiBTkjG9KcG-cQg-z4xIk96J6btabn9NF81T0q0wabD14z9Kf63YEJQjrmcBWLFRX4HSnnnJrSQe7fRWHKmYsRGODqRs1aiLTGw9rxKcMlFJ9k/s1600-h/IMG_0603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3VNxD2whmQ6UxDpLFT4Q9szyjjMf-cpiBTkjG9KcG-cQg-z4xIk96J6btabn9NF81T0q0wabD14z9Kf63YEJQjrmcBWLFRX4HSnnnJrSQe7fRWHKmYsRGODqRs1aiLTGw9rxKcMlFJ9k/s400/IMG_0603.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Here at the left are just some of the interesting vintage items that I am getting ready to add to my online store. <br />
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The silver spoon has a windmill that really turns when you push it with a finger. The broach has multicolored stones that really sparkle!<br />
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I do enjoy hunting for interesting vintage items - and I always wish I could unravel the mystery of their existence! Who designed it - what were they thinking about? Who owned it and what kind of adventures has it already been a party to?<br />
Such fun - it makes you want to make up a mysterious storyline for each item- or you can just get it and have your own adventures....Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-31969069783121371292010-02-13T11:33:00.000-05:002010-02-13T11:33:17.709-05:00Having issues leaving comments on blogs? For the past few weeks I have had problems leaving comments on some blogs- I finally googled it and found out that if you use the newest version of Firefox as your browser you will not be able to leave comments unless the comments section of someone's blog is set to be a pop-up, or full page, instead of it being embedded. I changed mine in settings/ comments and it will work that way - but to all of you who have it set to embed- there are lots of folks who can't leave you comments until they fix this! Anyone that knows of another fix- please leave a comment!Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-37451923613443291792010-02-13T11:04:00.000-05:002010-02-13T11:04:29.343-05:00Zula May: Shop Critique: Divine3Designs<a href="http://zulamay.blogspot.com/2010/02/shop-critique-divine3designs.html">Zula May: Shop Critique: Divine3Designs</a><br /><br />The link above takes you to a critique of my shop that I feel has some excellent advice on branding! The pointers this very talented and knowledgeable woman made will be taken to heart and help me to make valuable improvements to my online presence! Thank You Zula May!Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-82529752158076630422010-02-12T12:56:00.000-05:002010-02-12T12:56:06.640-05:00Marketing Your Small Business - 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwlxJZ4YqFnH9K-LZZu296gkpRgUJjsqi1XHTAR-KAR-5BK5TYlRN0rSoToPomKnVUwWbDK4cSdKS8h-Pn1Zz4seSAY-SyH_4f5Ytwq-IWMCDNuthsZhePXtnzeVmiyEP26IY3-lK-1YY/s1600-h/IMG_0473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwlxJZ4YqFnH9K-LZZu296gkpRgUJjsqi1XHTAR-KAR-5BK5TYlRN0rSoToPomKnVUwWbDK4cSdKS8h-Pn1Zz4seSAY-SyH_4f5Ytwq-IWMCDNuthsZhePXtnzeVmiyEP26IY3-lK-1YY/s400/IMG_0473.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>I took a short hiatus from my small jewelry business the past month, to give myself time to evaluate if what I have been doing has been effective or not. Many times we get so caught up in the frantic drive to have our business be successful that we forget why we started the business in the first place. Sometimes it is necessary to step back and take a hard look at what we are spending our time on and whether or not that is really what we want to be doing.<br />
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If I evaluate what it takes to be successful in marketing my business I quickly see that it is really easy to be drawn up by the opportunities that the internet offers for getting exposure and drawing views. With twitter, facebook, blogging, seo optimization, etc. it is easy to get so busy keeping up with them all, finding the newest and best sites to join, posting in forums etc. to spend hours each day that we tell ourselves are "productive". It gets daunting trying to figure out which ones really are! It seems like there is a huge community of internet sellers - targeting other internet sellers as their customers - because who else is at all these places? I plan to do a series on this blog about marketing opportunities and would love to have your input as to what you think your best venues have been. Which ways are you finding bring about the best results for your business?Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-69577863039852506262009-12-19T08:20:00.004-05:002009-12-19T20:16:06.785-05:00I'm in another Treasury! Thanks to Irina Photography!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH0UOrGIzIatSqNABzfvSLEmVlD47JEUIJyQ3gshuWtTZWzavyD9aJFzpSXPUI6uznX5mj6eOAdxXehWXPOpmqA5jSCShh7WoEjm8Te241MvB6z8CnZ5GQs5uls5xqa4rN2pDHGOMFAPQ/s1600-h/irinaphotography1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH0UOrGIzIatSqNABzfvSLEmVlD47JEUIJyQ3gshuWtTZWzavyD9aJFzpSXPUI6uznX5mj6eOAdxXehWXPOpmqA5jSCShh7WoEjm8Te241MvB6z8CnZ5GQs5uls5xqa4rN2pDHGOMFAPQ/s320/irinaphotography1.jpg" width="256" /></a><br />
</div>I want to thank Irina of Irina Photography for including me in her most recent treasury! I spent some time learning about treasuries just yesterday, after another gracious Etsy member featured me in a Celtic themed treasury, which I believe resulted in the sale of a vintage pendant that I had in my shop.<br />
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Irina has some incredible photos for sale in her <a href="http://irinaphotography.etsy.com/">Etsy shop</a>! Even though it is snowing like crazy outside and we probably already have 14" on the ground- glancing at the photo makes me think of the first spring tulips breaking through the snow!<br />
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Check out her shop to see the other interesting photos she has in stock right now! Gosh I wish I could take photos like that!<br />
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If you get a chance leave a comment to let me know what you think about her picture above.Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-5155876222795090232009-12-05T11:58:00.000-05:002009-12-05T11:58:35.792-05:00Get a Free SoopSee Account - Great for Etsy Shops!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHTCLJc1Ov2VvLWetBF3rf2gGaloXMftCdkNqtoPHy80efb5xvcIVA3qKpsUPK1HGcLuGyd69cMJ9J9ATG6nyOyr4bWvUsDu1U3A4y3YdKKQ7HUFLqWMWf6mu8usZWLmuCSvAVl7OFDLE/s1600-h/image10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHTCLJc1Ov2VvLWetBF3rf2gGaloXMftCdkNqtoPHy80efb5xvcIVA3qKpsUPK1HGcLuGyd69cMJ9J9ATG6nyOyr4bWvUsDu1U3A4y3YdKKQ7HUFLqWMWf6mu8usZWLmuCSvAVl7OFDLE/s200/image10.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>Occasionally I come across something that will help Etsy, Artfire, 1000 Markets, etc. sellers to broaden their exposure or help them boost traffic to their shops. We all know that both blogging and twitter accounts help us to get exposure for our online shops, but now there is something new! I recently signed up for a <a href="http://www.soopsee.com/">SoopSee</a> account - it is free (they do have a premium account as well) and basically turns your Etsy shop into a complete website!<br />
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Check out my SoopSee pages at: <a href="http://www.soopsee.com/profile/divine3designs">Divine3Designs</a> , notice the orange bar across the top. This site lets me add all the things that Etsy doesn't! I can import my twitter and blog accounts and actually have links to those pages on the front page as well.<br />
It is like having your Etsy shop converted into a complete website. You can add the things that Etsy currently has no provision for. Suggestion- sign up- you have nothing to lose. Sign up soon so you can reserve your shop name- before someone else gets it!<br />
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The site is currently in Beta- that means you can expect more functionality and features soon! So check out <a href="http://www.soopsee.com/">SoopSee</a> soon!Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-74348263925691549992009-11-30T14:22:00.000-05:002009-11-30T14:22:28.511-05:00Adding "Gadgets" to your BlogSeveral new Bloggers have recently asked me how to add "gadgets" to their blogs. This is really fairly easy to do! Get the "code" from whatever website has the gadget you want to ad. Usually they will have it ready for you to click on and "copy" then:<br />
1. Click on the "Layout " tab on your blogger dashboard<br />
2. Next click on the "add a Gadget" link <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsyP9mqd_KawCzOLVmE3r3YatBt6lBZWqYp5lUHUZD7POfL16Cp5Wba9nGvIZKdTEZgWA-h8h5OPJESP-qAi1P99C-a09IueAFDg4TwT2hA834amnc9xtfVSE40mWZXWYSweoGJX2DEWw/s1600/gadget%20pic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="91" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsyP9mqd_KawCzOLVmE3r3YatBt6lBZWqYp5lUHUZD7POfL16Cp5Wba9nGvIZKdTEZgWA-h8h5OPJESP-qAi1P99C-a09IueAFDg4TwT2hA834amnc9xtfVSE40mWZXWYSweoGJX2DEWw/s320/gadget%20pic.png" width="320" /></a><br />
</div>3.Now Choose the type of gadget you want to add:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMCdktSPXgoCPEHqhyphenhyphenRlEALIh-DKB8FMd7o2ZrFLcityXYSTBpX6ZB4h0iJnVGEbFaVrJUdq3Eq5BXiOG-MhXnqsLcBStQ4r_JvlVmqmvTBej9OyJNYTk2cqjdXavgJcMI7DR46rH7JfQ/s1600/html.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="81" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMCdktSPXgoCPEHqhyphenhyphenRlEALIh-DKB8FMd7o2ZrFLcityXYSTBpX6ZB4h0iJnVGEbFaVrJUdq3Eq5BXiOG-MhXnqsLcBStQ4r_JvlVmqmvTBej9OyJNYTk2cqjdXavgJcMI7DR46rH7JfQ/s320/html.png" width="320" /></a><br />
</div>4.Now just give it a title (your choice) and paste (right click in the big box) the code in to the box<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirIwd6mUIDaJks31_m5lwUEnrJ8XOluenZm6Qs4i7DMm1LcId8j5dMWJ3bq8PZ0z4YQD_OyOwhO-mHyic1HTyl_EwJ2O0ECwNUJ8Iz06h2UAAZ8zW4pDM-Rok4EBwPuiMKlR4nqAi6FM8/s1600/newgadget.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirIwd6mUIDaJks31_m5lwUEnrJ8XOluenZm6Qs4i7DMm1LcId8j5dMWJ3bq8PZ0z4YQD_OyOwhO-mHyic1HTyl_EwJ2O0ECwNUJ8Iz06h2UAAZ8zW4pDM-Rok4EBwPuiMKlR4nqAi6FM8/s320/newgadget.png" width="320" /></a><br />
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5. Save<br />
6. Preview and then save on your layout page if you are happy with it.<br />
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Now you can go back and move it around by clicking and holding down your mouse button then dragging your new gadget to wherever you want it to be on your blogger page!<br />
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Hint- If you like a gadget you see on someones blog- usually it has a link to its makers website- allowing you to grab one for yourself! Some sites let you customize it and then they generate the special code that has your chosen features in it!Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-13665554201409515242009-11-29T07:48:00.001-05:002009-11-29T07:53:14.689-05:00Featured: The Moss Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibHv1rCbjaKvbqaJqwMW1xjUNdEUeOOY12BRjrRf86xIoiIjjkoFu7CxGF2dQbyCxONZzEg309WkzcZIbEfng23OEgrby_K68mE5zdI05MSkFmp0plJE7lfftywuKWDAAw16gFXEy_0Hg/s1600/theMossGarden2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibHv1rCbjaKvbqaJqwMW1xjUNdEUeOOY12BRjrRf86xIoiIjjkoFu7CxGF2dQbyCxONZzEg309WkzcZIbEfng23OEgrby_K68mE5zdI05MSkFmp0plJE7lfftywuKWDAAw16gFXEy_0Hg/s320/theMossGarden2.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
</div>Think snow! Many are predicting that this will be a snowy winter to remember so I wasn't really surprised when a sprinkling of rain turned to sleet and then some snow flakes just briefly fell from the gray sky on Thanksgiving morning. It was brief, and then the sun came out and it was all but forgotten. Then I saw these lovely earrings with the hollow glass balls, like swirling snow. With the unmatched snowflakes (no two are alike) they instantly brought back the snow! These are from an Etsy shop called "<a href="http://themossgarden.etsy.com/">The Moss Garden</a>".<br />
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The shop owner, Victoria, (from Montreal, Canada) says: " I'm currently majoring in wildlife biology at university, so I am very interested in making jewelry with a zoological or botanical theme. I also call the Pacific northwest my home, so a lot of what I love and make has something to do with the ocean or the forest - Ucluelet, British Columbia is my favourite place on the planet. I am applying to veterinary school this year and I would one day like to work in the field of conservation medicine with endangered wildlife." Looking through her shop it is not surprising to see that many of her jewelry themes reflect the things she loves.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHy_cng7xohoPpoZ9hCwRCisCQcyQUWHf_CG-FHZhLaFF2dRfYDG_SfxPvM_7EugQpqIXZQoeRR1CymhyZQVgBP4O70PUqtEBrCQ5ZuSGnuQg9GvZnlr6GypbRlqhfZpy4XFrqhmP2zyA/s1600/theMossGarden1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHy_cng7xohoPpoZ9hCwRCisCQcyQUWHf_CG-FHZhLaFF2dRfYDG_SfxPvM_7EugQpqIXZQoeRR1CymhyZQVgBP4O70PUqtEBrCQ5ZuSGnuQg9GvZnlr6GypbRlqhfZpy4XFrqhmP2zyA/s1600/theMossGarden1.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>I also congratulate and encourage Victoria's industrious nature as a student, who probably has a very full schedule, and yet is making and taking the time to create and sell her lovely jewelry! Her jewelry would make lovely gifts for anyone but would be especially appreciated by the people on your list that care about conservation and wildlife issues and know that they can help support someone working her way into a life of service as a vet. If you are curious and want to know more about her (and see some really nice photography too)- read her <a href="http://the-moss-garden.blogspot.com/%20">blog</a>!<br />
<br />
I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! I was very thankful for my family who helped make this holiday a time for memories and reflection.Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-66981669773170940992009-11-23T08:23:00.000-05:002009-11-23T08:23:14.984-05:00Encouraging Small Businesses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9RqEc6ZUCrmOJVu4EqIxcP0s0lAt8hrcrqrydAv0orQZ27tslv2FX_y8JaGrfy7ahdcve1datkEowZohb_LV6_IjnSwFqtZXp_CtPy1XNP-HV4dvhhLYRZ40SL3-ZADfWqCAf1J6Q0TQ/s1600/IMG00211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9RqEc6ZUCrmOJVu4EqIxcP0s0lAt8hrcrqrydAv0orQZ27tslv2FX_y8JaGrfy7ahdcve1datkEowZohb_LV6_IjnSwFqtZXp_CtPy1XNP-HV4dvhhLYRZ40SL3-ZADfWqCAf1J6Q0TQ/s320/IMG00211.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
</div>I wish I could send a bouquet of lovely roses to each of the men and women who have started their own business in the past year or two! Congratulations to you for taking the initiative to help the economy by becoming a small business. Most people don't know that more than 70% of the working people in the USA work for or own small businesses! <br />
It is not easy and most of the time we start our small businesses while we are still working another job or have been laid off from a job we've held for years.<br />
I would like to encourage each of you to hang in there - as it takes time for most small businesses to grow to where they can support you and your family. I think on average it is two to five years of long hours, and hard work. But the prize is that if you stick it out you can survive and even thrive. When the times are hard- just remember that someday you will take pride in the hard times and how you worked through them. It takes inspiration, perspiration and perseverance to do anything that is really worthwhile! So keep it up and know that I am thankful for your efforts as I believe that the US economy hangs on what small businesses do in the next few years!Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-16701588239336875992009-11-12T19:51:00.000-05:002009-11-12T19:51:38.693-05:00Featured: Terrabella Accents<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfRYlRXKPbk0951OIUyz8y7WTkxrdkMoayQITGj3AEqbeZsuJLU-bAK43i_eKQPaUunxSi0Z6Ux_sTA-U6Quw4arLZSBrHGya4iZHP5iYAIo4F1KRoo5KHv9HxLTEx3-TcnBPhuGpzj0/s1600-h/il_430xN.99415149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfRYlRXKPbk0951OIUyz8y7WTkxrdkMoayQITGj3AEqbeZsuJLU-bAK43i_eKQPaUunxSi0Z6Ux_sTA-U6Quw4arLZSBrHGya4iZHP5iYAIo4F1KRoo5KHv9HxLTEx3-TcnBPhuGpzj0/s320/il_430xN.99415149.jpg" width="308" /></a><br />
</div>Warm exotic breezes, that's what I'm thinking about when I look at this gorgeous picture of vanilla bangles! Actually, today was overcast, windy, cold and gray here in VA, thanks to tropical storm Ida. I think that's why I really enjoyed looking through Terrabella Accents<a href="http://terrabellaaccents.etsy.com/"> Etsy shop </a> today. Her items brought back wonderful memories of turquoise water and sailing in the West Indies.<br />
<br />
The selection of gifts in this shop is incredible. Browsing there, is like going on a mini vacation!<br />
<br />
From the shops profile: ["terrabella" means "beautiful land" and perfectly describes the setting in which I live. Our country has different natural resources in the different regions. We have volcanoes, fresh water lakes and lagoons, beaches in the Pacific Ocean and Carribean, mountains, and rivers. Each small picturesque town has its own traditions and foklore.]<br />
<br />
Go ahead- take a break - you deserve a little vacation!Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-24131911075038532192009-11-11T21:27:00.001-05:002009-11-12T20:39:19.990-05:00We have a winner! $25.00 Shopping Spree!!!!<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Congratulations</b></span> Elizabeth, whose shop is called "ebogie" on Etsy! I'll be sending you an email with your Gift Certificate for the $25.00 shopping spree in my <a href="http://divine3designs.etsy.com/">Etsy Shop</a> . I hope you have fun picking out your favorite items.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">In the spirit of the upcoming holiday season</span> I decided to do another "quick" <span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">giveaway</span> - This one ends December 1st and is for the earrings pictured at the right and another pair just like them but with iridescent<br />
gray pearls. I call them my "go with everything" earrings because they really do work with just about everything you wear. Plus they are incredibly comfortable - once they are on you really can't feel them - they are so incredibly light! They are hand made of sterling silver and freshwater pearls.<br />
These would make great gifts or wear and enjoy them yourself.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrbpqv1ma8Ct7qLbrGWQlEAFdWb7pXkU74olSi8BZqLdrcwpGVPth3bWHAmyPzMproCWSW3clvL9mJDyp3Q8VU5SnQdigs8S4zbzXUx1pQcLo-WB-t_aXrYy1SiztQhp087DMQFa1iLdk/s1600-h/EShop1106+069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrbpqv1ma8Ct7qLbrGWQlEAFdWb7pXkU74olSi8BZqLdrcwpGVPth3bWHAmyPzMproCWSW3clvL9mJDyp3Q8VU5SnQdigs8S4zbzXUx1pQcLo-WB-t_aXrYy1SiztQhp087DMQFa1iLdk/s200/EShop1106+069.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><br />
The rules for this contest are simple: Follow this blog and get<br />
<br />
1 point for every comment you leave on this blog (max.3 per day)<br />
<br />
5 points for becoming a fan of <a href="http://facebook.com/divine3designs">Divine3Designs facebook page</a><br />
<br />
5 points for following me on <a href="http://twitter.com/divine3designs">Twitter </a><br />
<br />
10 points for any purchase from my <a href="http://divine3designs.etsy.com/">Etsy shop</a><br />
<br />
(if you already follow me or are a fan- you can count those points!)<br />
<br />
You can help me keep count by letting me know if you follow me on twitter and are a fan of my facebook page in the "comments" for this post - below. I have a gadget on the right that totals up my comments for me. If you want one like it - it's free, just follow the link below it.Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-36933308536001400782009-11-06T11:51:00.002-05:002009-11-07T09:01:21.377-05:00Giving the Best Gifts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYLOC9XlOXgtiPtxK2O1elKGeNjJ6mYUKnRUvhiH42Qamf9xwVy7a8kuWFwEzCqHzBMqF8sTQNPRShqlN5oTwiTOJpyBs9zYNkQ79N7JUJtbDfQdJtMcxqXyzNt64Um7dy9bvugpaIb4/s1600-h/Oct18+050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYLOC9XlOXgtiPtxK2O1elKGeNjJ6mYUKnRUvhiH42Qamf9xwVy7a8kuWFwEzCqHzBMqF8sTQNPRShqlN5oTwiTOJpyBs9zYNkQ79N7JUJtbDfQdJtMcxqXyzNt64Um7dy9bvugpaIb4/s320/Oct18+050.JPG" /></a><br />
</div>The upcoming holidays give us the opportunity to give gifts that show our caring, giving and loving natures. It is definitely true that giving can be much better than receiving, especially when the gift is something carefully thought out and meaningful.<br />
There are some gifts that "keep on giving". We adopted a horse from a horse rescue organization. Not everyone can do that - we happen to have a farm and were able to give him a good new home. But that wasn't really the best gift - the best one is taking my daughter three days a week to help on the horse rescue farm that Mr. B came to us from.<br />
<br />
She is not only learning about caring for animals, but also about responsibility and compassion, freely giving of your time and resources, sharing with those less fortunate, etc.<br />
<br />
Being a volunteer and teaching your children to be volunteers, giving to organizations and causes you choose to support, teaching good stewardship - that's the gift that keeps on giving....<br />
<br />
This year there will be many charitable organizations that will fall short in both funds and volunteers. Volunteerism in this county continues to steeply decline. I encourage all of you to expand your giving list this year rather than downsizing it -and it doesn't have to cost alot of money either - sometimes it's just some of your time and that of those you encourage and guide to do likewise. Can you afford not to?Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-51784091220557650622009-11-05T07:30:00.000-05:002009-11-05T07:30:58.062-05:00Featured : The Girly TuTu<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAUvEkFiV-BOkum_cILJRhG5BGSzKf-SC1wS586PlJ2wHWDWFOtBEqWANwe5yi8CZw-3CxuoOTQUKHjslQKKmkCUoaEFXuAOn65r3QUdexa9GkNAC8u57z4IF8odCtj2tiO5N7pUTNaHQ/s1600-h/thegirlytutu2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAUvEkFiV-BOkum_cILJRhG5BGSzKf-SC1wS586PlJ2wHWDWFOtBEqWANwe5yi8CZw-3CxuoOTQUKHjslQKKmkCUoaEFXuAOn65r3QUdexa9GkNAC8u57z4IF8odCtj2tiO5N7pUTNaHQ/s200/thegirlytutu2.jpg" /></a>With a slogan like "every girl can be a princess" it's easy to figure out that this shop is all about girls. Many of the selections could be used for great photo props and then be repurposed as dress-up play clothes. These gifts would put a huge smile on any little girls face!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTl-3KNLTw8a5-XRMlJEThvBOPKNoSyUcyXNmGsAIxx9p-uUCJ-3mOA2r5H3Pfl43ZUiItloko0dRRwoEvjYVuELalRcKmyx1eqKXYBsDtQCbgnmKlm-ro8K5RZ7jVR53HFPXe5kPhNzQ/s1600-h/thegirlytutu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTl-3KNLTw8a5-XRMlJEThvBOPKNoSyUcyXNmGsAIxx9p-uUCJ-3mOA2r5H3Pfl43ZUiItloko0dRRwoEvjYVuELalRcKmyx1eqKXYBsDtQCbgnmKlm-ro8K5RZ7jVR53HFPXe5kPhNzQ/s200/thegirlytutu.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><br />
<br />
"EVERYTHING in my shop is interchangeable...meaning if you see a shirt that you like but would like a different tutu or you see a set that you love but not the headband, WHATEVER, a custom listing can be set up for YOU to get exactly what you're looking for!"<br />
<br />
<br />
Customer satisfaction is a highlight at this <a href="http://thegirlytutu.etsy.com/">Etsy Store</a>. You will also find some lovely crocheted items for the bigger girls along with all the fabulous tutu's!<br />
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</div>Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-34427351792781177372009-11-02T07:30:00.000-05:002009-11-02T07:30:29.059-05:00Featured : Isla New York<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrqLqgzmT1VAGaZBPFFE542xAI_gndJn6N4Yrt5O5uejXdL4bpPdUNxNMFOeo_e1fvgDsvWy4ftaHwf9Let5vuvuLK44pXNIPuHPkYjOuUlhqxwbiX66YO6QJl_k_pUQi2Lw9o_BWiZA/s1600-h/IslaNY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrqLqgzmT1VAGaZBPFFE542xAI_gndJn6N4Yrt5O5uejXdL4bpPdUNxNMFOeo_e1fvgDsvWy4ftaHwf9Let5vuvuLK44pXNIPuHPkYjOuUlhqxwbiX66YO6QJl_k_pUQi2Lw9o_BWiZA/s320/IslaNY.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;">E</span>ver think how nice it would be if you could order a custom made sweater - made by someone that not only designs but also makes , fresh, comfortable, timeless clothes out of ecologically friendly materials? You're probably saying - dream on - that's not affordable - even if you could find it!<br />
<br />
Well wake up and check out this <a href="http://islanewyork.etsy.com/">Etsy Shop</a>! Regina is a young woman with big plans. She notes that: "Each piece is designed, fitted and sewn by just me. Because of this, please allow for up to 2 weeks ". <br />
<br />
And if that doesn't sway you:<br />
"Isla New York has become eco friendly!!!! All my jersey is hand dyed and made from a SOY/ORGANIC COTTON/SPANDEX blend that is environmentally friendly and super comfortable!"<br />
<br />
Her designs are lovely and available in all sizes - even custom. For those that are really hard to please on your list - consider a gift certificate to a shop like this - how much more luxurious can you get! (And did I mention she is very affordable!)Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-40183032913583847072009-10-31T21:43:00.000-04:002009-10-31T21:43:50.707-04:00Featured : Crafted by Design<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnAStC-4CwA9aeS4vEqE8cOwGHjA9UCGWscQXDyHcKQvbiKJqjNRACeuUacJ9i-oI4CVxwM7ycYHNvTlUB8N-XA2e_neZ6aQjjpWp2PtUj4v04mmboNv10zSUoNi-fPecvA1nGrOdnZFs/s1600-h/craftedbydesigns1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnAStC-4CwA9aeS4vEqE8cOwGHjA9UCGWscQXDyHcKQvbiKJqjNRACeuUacJ9i-oI4CVxwM7ycYHNvTlUB8N-XA2e_neZ6aQjjpWp2PtUj4v04mmboNv10zSUoNi-fPecvA1nGrOdnZFs/s320/craftedbydesigns1.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDKU7gTKl4pMQ4myydbmBN4-yTpyKuoShhGN5KNNKt6cw5mRBoxLNq1qX7jVIjgdLDs2YH4b6lGDgOH2LSuUbkmKy5rv-bDSyqXSmb84TCMMLLuc_WMv6J2lzfu6HeVdqxe68SSlwAaag/s1600-h/craftedbydesigns1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;">M</span>en are usually the hardest to shop for when it comes to gifts. Getting him something hand crafted, practical and yet memorable, and something he'll use often (remembering you in the process of course)- well that's almost impossible. Crafted by Designs has these incredible hand made (turned on a lathe) wooden- European style pens. Every time he picks it up and feels the elegant wood barrel he'll be thanking you! <br />
<br />
This <a href="http://craftedbydesign.etsy.com/">shop</a> also has a variety of other offerings : <br />
"sewn crafts, crocheted items, and wood-turning", handmade cards, scrap booking supplies etc..<br />
"Custom orders are available for all (baby) slings, aprons, hair bows, and pens/fire pistons." They also have a really nice wooden business card holder.<br />
I have my eye on the gorgeous pink pen and pencil set! But they can probably make more...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjblBn-HxRvfezapIIC0UVuldDmpDSZDLcApFue1OuERi4u5ljW3xfmLaPe5EdniJ3mRsIBdWWNcfnzRIl8li1L3Bc98EB1klaaILBjj2-x-i6dwSVH_vAf5qQH-RuMuE3vY1rHJUHXaI/s1600-h/craftedbydesigns2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjblBn-HxRvfezapIIC0UVuldDmpDSZDLcApFue1OuERi4u5ljW3xfmLaPe5EdniJ3mRsIBdWWNcfnzRIl8li1L3Bc98EB1klaaILBjj2-x-i6dwSVH_vAf5qQH-RuMuE3vY1rHJUHXaI/s200/craftedbydesigns2.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-52998227216540136442009-10-30T14:43:00.001-04:002009-10-30T20:49:49.373-04:00Featured: VH McKenzie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqFAKfnH4WNrEY8VziQnb4eSHBntSXqPcbKWobB0sG-11VjNzDHK9MlrCLr67B-sTEenf_W45IPeCIVXCYVGdm4gV2lARtv9GT_JKc04MHddkRJeyK7nf5t3-lYUKPb15cmWuB6IOehZU/s1600-h/VHMcKenzieCopyrright.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqFAKfnH4WNrEY8VziQnb4eSHBntSXqPcbKWobB0sG-11VjNzDHK9MlrCLr67B-sTEenf_W45IPeCIVXCYVGdm4gV2lARtv9GT_JKc04MHddkRJeyK7nf5t3-lYUKPb15cmWuB6IOehZU/s320/VHMcKenzieCopyrright.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>I used to paint quite a bit- mostly in acrylics, but oils, watercolors and pastels as well. Being a painter myself , I can easily spot the work of other artists that have exceptional talent.<br />
V.H. McKenzie, of NY,NY is such an artist! Her works exhibit all the colors of the rainbow- a colorist with an incredible eye. I love her Jamaican portraits and lush tropical landscapes.<br />
One of her paintings hanging in a neutral colored room would spice it up temendously.<br />
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But don't just take my word for it:<br />
<br />
Don't hesitate to check out her<a href="http://vhmckenzie.etsy.com/"> Etsy shop</a> or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/VHMcKenzieNightShift">facebook</a> page where you can see more of her incredible works! You'll find me amongst her fans!<br />
She offers, "Original art -- oil and watercolor paintings, drawings,collage AND archival quality prints of same." <br />
Do you have someone who has everything- or nothing (or anything in between for that matter)? One of her paintings or prints would be the perfect holiday gift!Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-48953738329447931212009-10-29T17:11:00.000-04:002009-10-29T17:11:27.328-04:00Want a Shorter Facebook Link? Easy to Do!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKqLFICZ6VlOq1XFV2sYNPbX_uB1_RXU_KJYFmUbayc5mVHYZMTL5fpRQ6KCOvg_Fm05Zc5NeIwkKModa6wxE-NVNVIprYXuhgFx4VLinwMTwijuoO27cpAcEeSh2UZXzMzO0Xy27cDvI/s1600-h/d3d090812+050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKqLFICZ6VlOq1XFV2sYNPbX_uB1_RXU_KJYFmUbayc5mVHYZMTL5fpRQ6KCOvg_Fm05Zc5NeIwkKModa6wxE-NVNVIprYXuhgFx4VLinwMTwijuoO27cpAcEeSh2UZXzMzO0Xy27cDvI/s200/d3d090812+050.JPG" /></a><br />
</div>I found a blog that has great tutorials on facebook, blogging etc. and thought I would share it with all of you.<br />
<br />
If you have wanted a shorter facebook link- for example - mine is now http://facebook.com/divine3designs<br />
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go to this <a href="http://thesocialmediaguide.com.au/2009/09/14/vanity-url-facebook-page/">link</a> and follow the easy instructions!Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-28923073038443348112009-10-26T06:59:00.002-04:002009-10-26T07:04:25.715-04:00Shop Handmade for the Holidays<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_JFRwucEMiTBrKbJYZVLJggw5TPj6lb6R_UhIs9KqvaWr-n6CuEQNAlZIgchaFD74v5ikM9a9E04ObGoyLMHwDy7csiY4CpyWwArCayAoJgV7tdTq2i64fxM27Moj1j73X6QqQTCWOI/s1600-h/Lcol1+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_JFRwucEMiTBrKbJYZVLJggw5TPj6lb6R_UhIs9KqvaWr-n6CuEQNAlZIgchaFD74v5ikM9a9E04ObGoyLMHwDy7csiY4CpyWwArCayAoJgV7tdTq2i64fxM27Moj1j73X6QqQTCWOI/s200/Lcol1+011.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: red;">Buy Handmade for this Holiday Season -</span></b></span> <br />
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With the economy affecting most peoples' wallets, for the upcoming holidays, it really makes sense to consider not only how much you will spend and what you will buy, but also - who will you buy from. So many are either supplementing their incomes or have been forced to replace their incomes (due to layoffs or reduced hours) by starting small home businesses. Each of us has a choice. We can continue to buy from the super stores, that are increasingly stocking their shelves with inferior and cheaply made imported goods, or we can choose to buy from people who are working from their homes and trying to make a difference in their local economies.<br />
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To help these entrepreneurs, artists and craftspeople, I've decided to feature at least one each week throughout the season, on this blog. If you want to be considered for inclusion - please go to my FaceBook page (link on the right side of this blog) and leave me a link to your shop or website and a contact email.Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-42950247716037014982009-10-23T08:51:00.002-04:002009-10-23T08:55:57.676-04:00Improving Your Photos for Increasing Sales<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLWpTc1wBwSwNnGsI4eQqMAhq2ECbCFq9KthyLJilY70ch-HyeHH0KdSp_WHu8COi9CUPc51K0th7q_yeM80N1Ji5ux7t_BaHCF0jFiK8UruJgmopVvQlfjB6BTwghFbtIoWzA2dNK78s/s1600-h/Oct18+137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLWpTc1wBwSwNnGsI4eQqMAhq2ECbCFq9KthyLJilY70ch-HyeHH0KdSp_WHu8COi9CUPc51K0th7q_yeM80N1Ji5ux7t_BaHCF0jFiK8UruJgmopVvQlfjB6BTwghFbtIoWzA2dNK78s/s400/Oct18+137.JPG" /></a>Showing your three dimensional products on the two dimensional internet can be difficult - especially when you are not a naturally gifted photographer, like me. I don't even like taking pictures! Presentation is everything when a customer can't pick it up and examine it. Your photos need to show your items with detail and accuracy.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've read a great deal of advice on this topic- from get the best camera to buy a light box and special lights. I've also seen some alternate setups to save money or at least get acceptable pictures until your business can afford the top of the line set-ups. Here's a quick synopsis of what I did to get the picture above out of one that looked similar to the one below;<br />
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</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh94tz4J2BEYmQADip-I2_ZcGUv5wPZ1E75n6Ei3v2kJnghDy-I1F2-daotqi0IRXhwDmjBQPmLG56-A1ECk1U8qvWgJUbM0ncUgKZHL5g53mvWwQhzDUguP1Mn92nOy2jdki88TRks4ls/s1600-h/Oct18+138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh94tz4J2BEYmQADip-I2_ZcGUv5wPZ1E75n6Ei3v2kJnghDy-I1F2-daotqi0IRXhwDmjBQPmLG56-A1ECk1U8qvWgJUbM0ncUgKZHL5g53mvWwQhzDUguP1Mn92nOy2jdki88TRks4ls/s320/Oct18+138.JPG" /></a>I use a translucent bin with two lights aimed at it. I've been using my daughters camera that has a Macro and Supper Macro setting- that's the one with the "flower" icon on your camera. You need this to get the detail. It is not an expensive camera and about 3 years old. The key is having enough light so that the camera doesn't flash. The flash creates glare and washes out detail. By putting the light through the translucent bin- it also prevents the glare on the metal surfaces that causes big problems when photographing jewelry. Take several shots - its digital- you can erase the ones that aren't good!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Next use a program to edit your photos-I use Picassa (free download from Google) for most of my simple editing. First I crop it to eliminate what I don't need in the photo. Next I will lighten the photo and add highlights- then shadows (second tab ) Finally I will sharpen the picture (third tab). That's what I did above in the "brighter" and "clearer" shot.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I still have a long way to go when it comes to photography- but I wanted to give you a starting point- if you are as clueless to it as I am. For those who know even more and don't mind sharing- post a comment and any links you have so we can all get even better with our pictures! Remember- we can't sell something that isn't well presented so it is very much worth the effort to get better photos.<br />
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</div>Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-20930814448615091072009-10-19T17:07:00.003-04:002009-10-22T22:41:03.599-04:00Fall Colors in Jewelry Designs<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe6fAH6iAKwmr8o5HqyKhqEXyMtDra1FWAtOW58TCo8ljEU0jtRJnEG2zU9V7SJt2olS9TrQQpJucQ8ewkQluXy2UR3ZzLxxcHq3wYJGyhJVX4sPbxU45_FMGspZ97Kcoz8aK3gA_sCoM/s1600-h/etsy2+001.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe6fAH6iAKwmr8o5HqyKhqEXyMtDra1FWAtOW58TCo8ljEU0jtRJnEG2zU9V7SJt2olS9TrQQpJucQ8ewkQluXy2UR3ZzLxxcHq3wYJGyhJVX4sPbxU45_FMGspZ97Kcoz8aK3gA_sCoM/s400/etsy2+001.JPG" style="clear: both; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><b> </b><br />
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<b>The colors on the ranch are breathtaking - the grasses have turned a soft golden color and the trees are sporting golds, oranges, reds and even warm browns. <br />
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</b>In the garden, there's pumpkins and peppers and the last of the very ripe tomatoes..... With so much color around it makes me want to get it embedded in my jewelry as well. I loved the feel of the brisk cooler breezes and the frost this morning was sparkly and beautiful as it blanketed the fields.<br />
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Unakite Jasper is a stone that isn't rare, or costly, but has gorgeous splashes of fall colors permanently embeded in it. These are not died but natural colors and won't fade or run. The stones are highly polished so that they gleem. Mix it with red agate (which is mostly a deep pumpkin orange) and you get the necklace in the picture. It is a "one of a kind" since I don't know if I'll ever find the exact same colors in the stones again. I made some earrings to match as well. If you like wearing beiges, tans, greens or corals - these stones will really enhance the look. They work well with browns and warm grays too and will perk up those colors. I also like to wear necklaces like these with a similar length gold silver or copper chain, sometimes twisting them together. <br />
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What are your favorite fall colors? Have you noticed that many of the newscasters on your local and national channels are wearing natural stone necklaces?<br />
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</div>Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787386328392704826.post-48340903989848668532009-10-14T16:13:00.001-04:002009-10-14T16:22:58.813-04:00Making Your Own Ear Wires<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvA1M9JtQrYzPmP8ezttUFNMfrA8NUq7D3rXnKZhzkmJe9IFiYynnGAWeJZQKNDVH8pdlXscTIOLKQfxvo88LA5eJ7XQQJSiNuG8dHtuEYD10FjoXELIAVICJqoIIkUgIqYSZo16iNPOk/s1600-h/image0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvA1M9JtQrYzPmP8ezttUFNMfrA8NUq7D3rXnKZhzkmJe9IFiYynnGAWeJZQKNDVH8pdlXscTIOLKQfxvo88LA5eJ7XQQJSiNuG8dHtuEYD10FjoXELIAVICJqoIIkUgIqYSZo16iNPOk/s200/image0.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>Making basic ear wires is really quite simple and making them yourself gives you so much more flexibility as far as sizes, shapes and thicknesses go. The majority of ear wires are made with 18, 20 or 21 gage wire. I use sterling silver because it holds its shape better than fine silver (pure silver) and is antibacterial and for most people non allergic. 18 gage makes a fairly thick strong ear wire and is great for heavier stones or hammered hoops. I don't find it as popular as 20 or 21 gage - which I also find to be most comfortable in my ears.<br />
For ear wires I use the half hard wire. Wire is sold hard, half hard or dead soft. If you have a lot of bending to do and the wire is thick (lower numbers) use dead soft. Hard wire is very spring like and harder to bend - it can also break if you bend it too much. <br />
For a very simple french style ear wire - first cut two 1.5 to 2" pieces of wire and make a small loop around the tip of your round pliers on one end of each (see picture at right). This is where you will later attach your "drop". Now use a sharpie, dowel or pen to bend both pieces around - this forms the part that rests in your ear. I do them together so they match. Then take your flat pliers and bend the back end up slightly (apx. 1/8"). Now file the end that will go through the ear to make it smooth.<br />
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</div>Once you are happy with the shape- you now need to "set it". That means hardening the wire so it will keep its shape. I do this by tumbling in a rotating barrel with stainless steel shot for several hours. It can also be done by hitting the rounded part of the earring with a hammer several times (flattening it). "Working" the metal by hammering or tumbling alligns the molecules and makes it stiffer or harder.<br />
If you look through the Fire Mountain Gems or Rio Grande catalogs you can see the huge variety of shapes that are possible - you just have to get creative and find objects to shape your wire around! Have fun designing your own special ear wires!Divine3Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03223692066504470561noreply@blogger.com4