Monday, November 29, 2010

Christmas Shopping Ideas!

Christmas is the season for kindling the fire of hospitality in the hall, the genial flame of charity in the heart. ~Washington Irving

First, let me tell you about DD because I'm so proud of her -- You see, DD had several custom orders for jewelry to complete this weekend. I've been frustrating her lately because I won't let her rush through something -- especially custom orders where someone is specific about what they want. I've had her take apart items more than once. For instance ...

This bracelet is absolutely GORGEOUS -- but it took her three tries to get it done because twice she didn't do what the customer wanted. Now, though? It's amazing.




Her new favorite thing to make are "illusion" necklaces. They're so pretty that my SIL (who is VERY picky and exacting about things) saw one on the table the other day and bought it. I know she truly likes it because I've seen her wearing it three different times now: twice to work, and once to church.

For another customer, DD made necklace and earring sets that are lovely (I don't have a picture of the green necklace -- bad me):





I've very proud of her ... it's truly incredibly how talented she is and how skilled her work is getting to be!

One of the downsides to spending time on Artfire for DD, though, is being tempted by all the goodies. If you're not into jewelry, there's plenty there for you to buy for Christmas. Instead of supporting HUGE places like WalMart with your dollar, why not support independent artisans?

Like Merrimack Valley Essentials, who offers all natural soaps, lotions and more -- and the shipping is SO reasonable (that's what pushed me right over the edge on this one). My fave product? The Pumpkin Spice Goats Milk soap. Ooooh....

Shopping for cute pet stuff? Get Nice/Naughty dog bones here.

Need something for young girls? How about Barbie Clothes?

Seriously, if you want it, they probably have it at Artfire. I'm so impressed with the pieces there, I could spend all day shopping.

I'm a big proponent of supporting independent stores, and I really feel like I can vote with my money this year at Christmas. I highly encourage you all to do the same!

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You Are Lemon Tea



The word that best describes you is "fresh" - both in outlook and in attitude.

You are an outspoken and brave person. You definitely tell it like it is and shoot from the hip.

You are cheeky and even a little outrageous. You've been known to do things simply for shock value.

You have a lot of energy, but you always allocate it well. You're productive enough to avoid being overly hyper.




Well.. ha. That's pretty close to right on! LOL...

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5 comments:

Maria Zannini said...

I'll have to get a naughty and nice bone for my pooches. I've got one of each.

Dru said...

I love the bracelet.

You Are Chamomile Tea

You are a naturally calm and reasonable person. You are very mellow.

You're at ease at almost any time. You find it easy and important to relax.

You like to take time out to enjoy life. Work could never be the most important thing you do.

You value tranquility. You let go of the things you can't control. Life is too short to worry.


Wow, this is so true.

Have a great Monday!

Joanna St. James said...

she is very talented, does she sell some of her designs on artfire or etsy?

Tori Lennox said...

DD's work is awesome!

I bet Artfire has some awesome steampunk stuff. Not that I actually NEED any steampunk stuff. :)

Brandy said...

The bracelet is lovely! The necklace and earring sets are gorgeous. I'm STILL trying to find something for the Out-laws for the Holidays, so will be sure to check out Artfire. Thanks for the suggestion.

You Are Apple Cinnamon Tea
You are a warm and friendly person. You have a compassionate heart, and it shows.
You are naturally sweet and kind. Your spirit of generosity is far reaching.
You love to be cozy and comfortable. You are a natural homebody.
And while you like to be at home, you're not a hermit. You love it when your friends make themselves at home at your place.

This one is spot on. *g*

I hope you have a fabulous day!