Thursday, December 31, 2009

For the New Year....Remember Joseph

There are several "stories"--real, true accounts--in the Bible that I love reading. I may have read them many times, but they still send chills up my back and make me think. One is the story of Ruth. Talk about romantic! Dedication, honor, respect, love *sigh*...once I start the book of Ruth it's hard to put it down until its all read (at least it's a short book). The story of Joseph is another. I was reading it this morning. Jealousy, danger, lies, falsehood, character, forgiveness...The part where Joseph reveals himself to his brothers..."I am Joseph," in chapter 45 is so compelling! Talk about goosebumps! There are two lessons that I'm reminded of when I read about Joseph. The first thing is to stay true to God no matter what. Let's face it, Joseph would have had a pretty good excuse to blame God for how his brothers ganged up on him and sold him and he had to live his life as a slave in Egypt away from his family...not to mention that he was lied about and ended up in jail. However, through it all he was faithful and true and trusted God even when he could have easily done wrong (and no one would have known or cared!). What a good example of character! The second thing is that from the very beginning when his brothers were moved to jealousy all the way to going before Pharaoh to give God's interpretation of the dreams, the Lord's hand was in his life. God knew the future and prepared him all along the way--he ended up in Egypt (had to learn the language); the captain of the guard happened to buy him; he ended up in jail where he met the butler; he saved thousands of people from hunger.
The account of Joseph is a good one to think on as we ring in the new year. When times get rough, God's hand is in it for a reason even though things at the moment may seem unjust, unfair, or overly difficult. God knows the future and is shaping and preparing us for things we don't yet know about. Also, no matter what, have character and be faithful to God no matter what the circumstances and whether anyone knows or not. It will always be worth it in the end.

Monday, December 28, 2009

New Floral Dragonfly Brooch

My mother challenged me to make a dragonfly, so I looked at the beads that I had and three days later created this little blue one. Have you ever seen those pretty blue dragonflies? One always seems to find the end of my fishing pole whenever we go on a fishing excursion. I like them because they are delicate and pretty actually, despite their names, with their gossamer wings and elegant demeanor. Anyway, this one has delicate pale lavender wings and is flying up through tiny fuchsia and purple flowers. It makes me think of springtime and summer. Hope you like it!

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Lollishops? Etsy? Ebay? What Have I Learned?

I was thinking this past week about the year almost behind us and the decisions I've made for Glass Bead Treasures and what, if any, changes I would make for the new year ahead. I've learned a lot, made some mistakes, and made a few decisions.

I've learned (the hard way) to be very exacting when listing something...hurrying with a description will incur mistakes. I've learned that Priority mail is just too expensive for little things like I have. I offer free shipping on everything (which I appreciate when purchasing from others), but Priority is just too much money. First class gets things where they need to go in a timely manner--and I always put a tracking # with each package. No one can then say their package never arrived.

I put several things on Ebay this past year, and other than one really good sale did very poorly and wasted my money. Oh, I can't stand wasting money!! Anyway, with Ebay a person just "never knows" . It is a well-known place, and many go there every week, including myself, to see what is there. But over all I think I will place very few auctions there this coming year.

Opening a shop on Etsy was a very wise move. I started placing things there early in the summer. I had hesitated for a while because, well, to be honest there were things featured on the front page at times that I thought were quite inappropriate. I didn't like and still don't like that aspect about Etsy, but the more I got to know the site the less I felt it would impact my shop or anyone I sent there. I love the fact that it accepts the selling of vintage items (yes, a replacement for Ebay). It is quite reasonably priced as long as I resist the temptation to spend more than is necessary on relisting and showcases. I figured out the importance of doing "treasuries" (which are great fun), connecting with people in the forums, "hearting" people, etc. I learned what showcases are worthwhile and what showcases are definitely NOT worth the money through trial and error (and losing some money). I've met some fabulous people there and will stay there.

Lollishops is just over one year old, and it has been fun being a part of something new. It has had some bumps and many changes and adjustments over the past year. There were times I considered dropping off the bandwagon but, understanding Sadie's vision and seeing its potential, was determined to stick it. I'm so glad I have! At first I didn't like the change a few months ago to being basically a referral site, but now I love it. It offers exposure to a targeted crowd while simply referring any serious purchasers to my Etsy shop. This was a wise move on Sadie's part which I'm very satisfied with. Oh, and the price is exceptional. You just can't beat the monthly price for the exposure ratio. I love that there are regular advertising opportunities in well-known publications and other interesting exposure chances, like Silver Bella press kits, which I've taken advantage and could never afford on my own. It is nice that the front page always shows what I have newly listed and a featured item from my shop from time to time. I have actually sold things as a result of being on Lollishops' front page! Lollishops also allows the selling of vintage goodies which is an added plus. I think for me Lollishops has been well worth it, and I'll happily continue on this coming year.

I know my shop and ideas and budget are different from others, but I thought I'd share the wisdom gained from the past year. I hope this is a help to others who may be trying to make decisions for the upcoming year.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

For the Love of Guilloche

I never really knew what guilloche (not to mention how to pronounce it) was until my mom told me a story (along with a quest) about a piece of jewelry her grandmother owned. It was a blue enamel piece in the shape of a bow with little pink flowers on it. She remembers her grandmother had it and upon her death was buried with that brooch on. My mom mentioned that she is on a quest to find a piece that looks like that. Well, first I did a search to figure out exactly what it was she was looking for (always a good idea to figure out at the beginning of a serious search) and discovered that guilloche is an interlaced curved pattern either painted or carved on metal over which is clear enamel so that the pattern shows through. You can see that in the white on these pictures. A simple search on Ebay revealed a plethora of amazing, gorgeous pieces--jewelry, compacts, hair brushes and combs, etc. There are stunning pieces are out there...and pricey too at times...my favorites with backgrounds of white, green, and blue. While I still haven't found the blue, pink-rose encrusted bow brooch, I have and will continue to enjoy the search.
The Coro-signed locket brooch in the pictures above, I found at an estate sale. I contemplated taking the piece apart since I like the parts of it but not the locket/brooch as a whole. However, I figure why take a nice signed piece apart that someone else may be looking for or want. I've put this in my Etsy shop. Perhaps someday, I may find just the right guilloche piece that "speaks to me" for my own enjoyment (and at the right price). Until then, I shall continue to enjoy looking at all that is out there...and perhaps I just might find that blue bow brooch for my mom.

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Snowflake Swap....

...there are only a few days left to enter. Be sure to check out the link HERE to see all the details. I would love to have more people join in on the fun!

Friday, December 18, 2009

Yummy, Sugary, and Sweet Treasury

I had lots of fun putting together this treasury on Etsy yesterday featuring things that look or smell or remind a person of sugary, sweet, and yummy things. Mmmmmmm, I think I gained three pounds just compiling the treasury! If you'd like a closer look or would like to check out the individual items here is the link>>>Yummy, Sugary, and Sweet.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Thank you, Pauline!

I was blessed to receive a little box this week from a sweet friend in the UK...from no one other than Pauline of Swept and Garnished. Isn't it beautiful? I absolutely love it. The edges are like lace. Thank you so very, very much, Pauline! I will think of you and pray for you and your family when I sip tea from it.

Sunday, December 13, 2009

A Pretty Laundry Room--Now Completed

I had done a post...many posts ago...about our laundry room. It was just as I wanted it--complete with lots of roses and beautiful colors in green, red, pink, and yellow--except for the ironing board cover (which was gray and covered with ugly house drawings). You may read the post here if you'd like--laundry room. The ironing board cover I had was ancient and in poor shape. Well, I finally broke down and bought a new one for myself, and I dare say that our laundry room is completed and looks completed. I really wanted to support a handmade supplier, so I found Hestia Houseworks on Etsy. Not only did I have a great experience with them with friendly and fast service, but in return I also received a beautiful, quality ironing board cover. The material is gorgeous and goes well in the rose-themed laundry room...and it feels great to support a fellow Etsy-ian. Hooray for handmade! ; )

Thursday, December 10, 2009

It Snowed and Blew...and he Still Came!

This is the scene from our front door today. It isn't very exciting actually, but it's amazing how much snow can fall in one day! We got around a foot of snow. Others in the state got more...some less. Unfortunately we don't have a snow blower, so out we went with our shovels and a lot of elbow grease (so much grease in fact that my elbow hurts this morning!) and finally got the driveway shoveled. It wouldn't have been so bad if it hadn't been for the wind. It felt like sand blowing and pitting on our faces. Everything and every one was at a standstill for hours and hours. My husband couldn't get to work (I certainly didn't mind that--I LOVE having hubby home). The kids didn't have a snow day because, well, you just don't when you homeschool. We did several subjects and quizzes and practiced violins and had a shorter day because Daddy was home, though. What impressed me was the fact that the mailman came! Yes, it was after the plow came through (after the storm was basically finished) and four hours later than he usually gets here, but he made it! We were all so impressed that he actually delivered on a blizzard day on country roads. We think he deserves--and he will get--a special treat and thank you. I know, I know...it's his job...but everyone deserves a special thank you from time to time, and he is deserving.

Monday, December 7, 2009

Snowflake Swap

Today is the first real snowfall of the season, and the day when the kids and I traditionally get out the clear, glistening crystal, glass, and resin snowflakes to put up on our windows (they will remain up until March sometime). I love snowflakes...they are shiny, sparkly, glittery, and beautiful in every possible way. In honor of this event, I have decided to host a swap.

Here are the rules:
1) Must sign up by midnight December 21. International participants welcome.
2) Must email me at treasuresandtea@gmail.com with the following information: Name, mailing address, email address, blog address, and whether you mind swapping internationally. I will email you back a confirmation that I have received your info.
3) Swap box must include at least one snowflake item (napkins, ornament, candle, candy, etc.) and at least one handmade item (tag, pin, charm, ornament, ATC, dishcloth, etc.). Most if not all of the colors of the items must be "snow" colors--think silver, clear, shades of white, all shades of blue, glitter, crystal.
4) Swap partners will be emailed out on January 2 for the mailing of items by January 16. (Hey, there's nothing else going on in the middle of January--might as well do a swap!).

Now, one important thing about this swap is that I will not tolerate anyone who doesn't hold up their end of the deal. The last swap I participated in was terribly disappointing. I worked hard on my swap items, sent them off to my three partners, and didn't get anything in return from any of them! Please don't sign up for this if you are not serious about participating.

I will post about specific people who don't live up to their word, so please follow through.

Now, grab the button above to spread the word, add a link to this blog post, and let's have fun. Let it snow!

P.S. Snowflake paper above compliments of vintageholidaycrafts.com

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Mmmmm, Mint and Chocolate

For some reason I have had mint and chocolate on the brain. It might be because we are waiting for our box of Girl Scout cookies to arrive--you know, the mint and chocolate covered ones. Or, it might be that the grass outside has gone from green to brown too quickly. Or, it just might be because a mint and chocolate candy sounds really good right now--cool and fresh and indulgent. Well, regardless of the reason, I have put together this Etsy treasury and had a grand time doing it too! It features some of my favorites (just love Pei Li's work--I can't get enough of her miniature creations--check out her shop here....Dollhouse Miniatures). If you'd like to look at the treasury in more detail here is the link...Mint and Chocolate.

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Perfume Bottles and Romantic Homes Magazine

I always get way too far ahead of myself when it comes to reading my magazine subscriptions. I just got "Tea Time" in the mail...their January/February issue where they are talking about Valentines Day already...but I can't help it! All of this beautiful, fabulous information with pictures is sitting there waiting for me, and I can't resist peeking...then reading...from cover to cover!
Well, the January 2010 issue of "Romantic Homes" arrived, and I've already read through the whole thing. I couldn't help it. There is a must-see article about the home of one of the Layla-Grace co-founders, Wendy Estes, (the ornate white-with-pink-kissed-roses dresser is WAY, WAY beyond gorgeous), and there was a little article about perfume bottles. How can one resist an article about perfume bottles?
First, in the picture above, is the decorative glass "tray" that I have on my dresser. I don't use the things on it. It is basically just for decoration. I like the labels and the shapes and think it is romantic in every way.
The pink one with the heart-shaped topper I've had since high school and really like the color of the bottle AND the heart, of course.
The green one with the crown topper I bought in New Zealand at an antique store. It is a bath salt bottle actually with some of the salts still in it. I thought the crown was gorgeous and unique.
This is the perfume I use. My husband loved the scent...on another girlfriend, if you can believe that! LOL! But, no hard feelings at all, and I've worn it for over 20 years. He usually gets it for me for our anniversary when I'm out. I take great care not to waste it, and a bottle lasts and lasts and smells wonderful...oh, and makes me think of Paris!
These are little miniature bottles that I have sitting on this chintz plate on my dresser. You know...I can't resist anything in miniature, so a few miniature perfume bottles are a must. The Poeme bottle was given to me, and I like it for it's shape. The Paris miniature bottle, I've had for years and years. It was a "diamond" edition freebie with a Paris perfume purchase well over 10 years ago. My kids think it's a real diamond--wish it were!
Finally, this trio is an inexpensive set, but they look expensive, I think. The colors go perfectly with our bathroom colors. I love the crystal stoppers, and they sparkle and shine (when they aren't dusty!) and look beautiful when the sun is shining in our bathroom window. They just seem to glow.
I really do like and enjoy perfume bottles. I love their shapes, sizes, and labels. I don't have many perfume bottles, and those that I DO have aren't expensive ones. But, who needs to spend all outdoors to enjoy something pretty? Bottles and labels in many shapes and forms (like my glittery, shabby rose perfume label ornament--for year-round enjoyment) can truly add pretty spots of color and glamor to a home.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Thank you, Jerre!

Jerre, at fabricartist21.blogspot.com had a giveaway featuring these fun goodies--two yards of beautiful material, a sweet pincushion magnet, and some adorable Mary Engelbreit stickers. Thank you, Jerre!
Jerre, has some fabulous creations at her shop (I personally love her "raggy blankets"--my favorite one sold--not surprised!!)...so why not go over for a quick peek at what she has to offer. While you're over at Etsy, check out Jerre's friend, Judy's, shop (I LOVE the lace snowflake ornaments--gorgeous!).

Monday, November 30, 2009

Cupcakes and More Cupcakes!

There isn't much that is more fun than a cupcake! I had a ball this past weekend working on this new cupcake pin. I had these mint green beads that I've been itching to use....and what better than as mint green frosting? I've listed it in Lollishops and on Etsy (see shop links to the left).
Speaking of cupcakes, Gail at her blog, Shabby Cottage Shoppe, is having a cupcake ornament--these pictured above--giveaway TODAY--so hurry on over to enter. They are adorable, are they not? These you can keep up all year long. While there check out the rest of her beautiful blog and her shop. Talk about pretty stuff!

Saturday, November 28, 2009

The Perfect Box Treasury

I love containers...any type really...I guess because I like things organized and in their places (though you'd NEVER know that looking at my house right now). Anyway, I've been itching to do a "box" treasury on Etsy, and I finally snagged a treasury spot today. Here it is. Here is the link if you'd like to view the items in more detail---The Perfect Box.

A Gift for a Man


I don't know about you, but I have had hard times in the past finding gifts for my husband. Our wedding anniversary is coming up soon, and I've been thinking a lot lately of what would be just the right thing or things for him. Sometimes I get him one big gift and sometimes a bunch of little ones. Of course, money is always an issue, and some years I can spend more than others, of if the occasion is particularly special or a milestone, I want to get something unique and extra special. Thinking upon these thoughts, I came up with these key chains for men (although I like fish and find them appealing myself). I suppose they could be zipper pulls as well. They are made from vintage images, and I've put them in my Etsy shop. What do you think?

A Spot of Brightness

It's very brown outside. The pretty leaves are gone. The green grass is fading. So, how delighted I was to be watering my plants the other day when I discovered that the window-facing side of my cactus plant was budding! What a beautiful spot of brightness in front of the view of the bleak world outside. This plant was from a very dear friend of mine who loves cacti and has them everywhere in her home. It's bright fuchsia color certainly makes for a cheery spot in my kitchen. Thank you, Linda, for the gorgeous spot of cheer.

A Fabulous Giveaway

Check out Marydon's Giveaway....where there is a chance to pick one of three fabulous prizes. These really are nice. Just click on the image below to go to her blog and see what she is offering and enter.

 Feedsack Fantasy & Blushing Rose Boutique?

After you enter, why not go to her shop to see what goodies she has to offer. If you want to go directly to her shop, just click on the Blushing Rose button on my right sidebar.

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Blessed be the Lord...

Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah. (Palm 68:19). How wonderful to have a day set aside to give special glory and praise to God for daily giving us benefits and blessings! Well, of course, we should remember to do it every day, but it's great to have a day set aside just to recognize God's goodness--from huge blessings like giving us freely the chance to have eternal life completely paid for by the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ (all we have to do is repent and believe) to the littlest of blessings like finding the perfect pair of shoes at a yard sale for 25 cents. I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving. (Psalm 69:30) Even in the toughest of times or situations which we've all seen and/or been through, God is good--beyond good--and to Him be glory and praise. Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen. (Revelation 7:12)

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Old Fashioned Chocolate Cream Pie

This recipe is my grandmother's, and she made this pie (at everyone's request) for most major family functions. It is a lot of work because it is made the old fashioned way (no instant pudding mix filling here!)...and you know what? Each bite has a deep, rich, old-fashioned, chocolaty taste that is worth every minute of work spent on it. Now my husband's side requests it, and I make it for major family functions....like our Thanksgiving dinner we just had this past weekend. I put only real whipped cream on top--a thick layer of course--without anything added to it--the cream definitely completes the pie without adding any more unnecessary sweetness. You'll need to save out time to do this--really great things take longer than a minute to make, you know--but you and your family will be pleased with the results...I promise!
Mamie's Chocolate Cream Pie

3 cups whole milk (needs the fat in the whole)
1 cup sugar
1/4 tsp salt
6 tbsp flour
5 tbsp cocoa (I prefer Hershey's taste)
2 egg yolks (no white parts at all!)
2 tsp butter
1 tsp vanilla
1 baked pastry shell (a larger shell is best)

Scald 1-1/2 cups of milk over boiling water. Mix sugar, salt, flour, cocoa, and remaining milk in bowl (mix very slowly to avoid any lumps). Stir into hot milk and cook slowly until thickened stirring constantly (this takes the most time). Once thickened, cover and cook over boiling water for 5 minutes. Add egg yolks and cook 1 minute longer. Add butter and vanilla. Cool. Pour into cooked pastry shell and top with whipped cream once cold.

Friday, November 20, 2009

"Tea Time Tidbits" Special Posting #12


This perky yellow teapot and silver cozy belonged to Grammy McKee--my mother's grandmother. Grammy was from Wales--came through Ellis Island-- and was a very special person in my mother's life until she passed away when my mother was quite young. Mom DOES remember having tea with Grammy McKee in this teapot though. Grammy enjoyed her tea parties and apparently this teapot. I'm thankful for this teapot being passed down to me. Who can rises a cheery yellow teapot (which happens to be my mother's favorite color) filled with what I grew up to know as the "Welsh cure-all"--tea, of course!

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Some New Vintage Image Brooches

I've been working on some new vintage image brooches. I found some really interesting ones while out and about antiquing last month and am now starting to work on some jewelry. My biggest problem now is finding the time to work on all of my ideas. I was thrilled to find two with teapots on them--you know me and teapots. This above is one of them. The other isn't quite done yet and probably won't be until the beginning of next week. This pretty teapot was actually from a Christmas advertisement, but with the pink and green it will look good all year round pinned to someone who likes tea. It has pink and green glitter on it also as well as touches of 18K gold leafing pen for extra shimmer (can't have enough shimmer!). There are other pins as well--a pretty lady in a hat, a kissing couple, and a blue and white Dutch image (think Delft tile). I will be adding all of these to my shops on Lollishops and Etsy soon.

Thanks for the Blessing, Polly!

I just finished reading the last page of the Romantic Homes December 2009 issue. It is a beautiful issue (love what they did with those gorgeous hankies on the front cover--beautiful material!)...and it ended beautifully with a little "At Home With..." article about Polly Hood of French Cupboard (a group I'd love to be a part of someday when the money allows...someday, I hope) and Counting Your Blessings fame. It was such a blessing to read in a large publication that one of her prized possessions is her Bible! Not everyone would have the guts to say such a thing (might "offend" someone...might lose some business...etc.). I figure if the Lord had the "guts" to die on the cross for us, an innocent man, then why shouldn't we have some guts to speak out for Him and his Word? Anyway, I appreciate and respect Polly for mentioning the Bible--a book which is increasingly getting more and more unpopular--and I know the Lord will bless her and her business for it. Thanks for the blessing, Polly!

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Thanksgiving Craft with the Kids


I send out Thanksgiving cards every year because I like Thanksgiving (my favorite holiday), and I like to tell people that I'm thankful for them. What better time? I decided to make my Thanksgiving cards this year and bought a packet of pretty green blank cards and some gorgeous, very elegant stickers. Then I decided that our friends and relatives would probably appreciate something handmade and full of love from my two kids rather than something elegant from just me. So, we did this craft as a homeschooling project, and I think they came out quite well. We cut out the turkey shapes from thin foam paper which the kids glued on. There were feathers in fall colors to glue behind the turkey for his feathers. They dotted the eyes with a black marker. Then inside, we glued cut out acorn parts and put glitter on the acorns. Then with their fancy scissors they cut out the Bible verse ("O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good..." I Chronicles 16:34) and glued that in. One child did the turkey then the other did the inside work so that they both would have a part in each card (and I noted who did what on the back). The card is full of texture and color, and it was a fun project which I'm sure the recipients will enjoy--much more than a card just done by me.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

The Love of Limoges



I know, I've posted a picture of this teacup and saucer before. My husband and I were at the Charles De' Gaulle Airport for the trip home from our little jaunt in Paris years ago, and I still had not purchased a teacup and saucer--something I like to get from places we visit as a memory of the trip. We went into a little shop at the airport, and, lo and behold...they had teacups! I bought these two ("In case one breaks, you'll still have the other," my husband thoughtfully said.) because they were so French...so Limoges. When I think of France...when I think of Limoges--the quintessential colors of Limoges--I think of cobalt and gold (and, of course, the French lady and gent are a part of that--goes without saying, really). So, with this inspiration and the colorful richness of cobalt and gold/brass, I hand stitched flower beads in cobalt, light blue and white along with little brass rose beads for my newest trinket box (have it listed on my Lollishop and on Etsy). Leave it to something from France to inspire me!

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Thank you, Dear Veterans!

With all my heart, I thank you all for having served our country--for the sacrifices, the loneliness, the hurt, the willingness, the difficulties. Because of you--both veterans who have passed away and you who are alive today--we have our freedoms. You have been willing to serve and do what so many others could not or would not do. Shame on anyone who treats you poorly or looks down on you with disrespect because they disagree with whatever war you have fought in or are fighting in. Whatever the war, whether popular or not, you have my highest respect, and I'm thankful for a special day to honor you. Thank you to your families too who sacrificed so that you could serve. A sincere and heartfelt thank you to you all.

Monday, November 9, 2009

Victoria Magazine's Wrapped in Whimsy

In their November/December 2009 issue, Victoria magazine (above picture from there) has a wonderful article entitled "Wrapped in Whimsy" about a store owned by Nicholas Kniel that specializes in ribbons, buttons, and embellishments galore. It's a wonderful article--just beautiful! I checked out his on-line shop, Nicholas Kniel Fine Ribbons and Embellishment, wherein a person may see, I presume, most if not all of what he has to offer. I'd love to actually go to the shop someday--which is unfortunately in Georgia and far from here. There is nothing like feeling the ribbons and seeing the true colors of things in real life. I especially liked the little blue bird embellishments as seen in the article pictures. If you love ribbons and pretty accents, this article is a must-read and the shop a must-visit.

Sunday, November 8, 2009

New Listings

Been listing a lot of goodies on Lollishops and Etsy this past weekend. Whew! It is all done finally. It seemed to take me forever. I listed a few new brooches as well as many lengths of various colors of tatted lace found at an estate sale (blogged about that in a previous post).
The lace really is pretty...but not something I would use for awhile (though I'm sure I could come up with some use if pressed!). Hopefully it all can find a nice home somewhere where it will be used and loved and appreciated. I also got three brooches done and listed (two are seen above). I'm working on another little box--the colors are...well, think Limoges. I bid on two projects on Etsy--offering to custom create a little trinket box like the pink Victorian one in my shops--but I don't know yet if the people are interested.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Two Little Estate Sale Finds

I was thrilled to find this little enameled bluebird pin in a bunch of "stuff" from an estate sale. Perhaps these little pins were used to secure certain undergarment straps in days of old, or perhaps it was simply little bit of added color on a lapel. Whatever the case, this is assuredly a treasure.
Also in the bunch of "stuff", was this little book locket.
It appears that it had more enamel on it that has over the years fallen off. I like the intricate details of the back and front covers.
It is a sweet little locket that appears to be old and well used.
I so enjoy "little" things especially if they are vintage, pretty, or interesting. Like the little bluebird pin, this locket is a "keeper" treasure as well.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Teal Etsy Treasury

I'm in the treasury, Tantalizingly Teal, on Etsy (and in fact created it). It was wonderful to hear from a vendor, Teaman (check out his shop--he sells many different kinds of tea in nice tins) that fact that he had at least one sale from it. The ribbon in the treasury sold as well. I know, I sold a brooch once while it was in someone's treasury. I'm very glad for them...and pleased.

Monday, November 2, 2009

New Little Treasure Box



As promised, the little brass trinket box is finished, and here are the pictures of it. I added it to my shops at Lollishops and Etsy this morning...but you know, I really like it for myself! Perhaps if it doesn't sell....I'll claim it for my own. ; )