tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75102369548267753682024-03-05T01:50:01.031-08:00Asterope Bead CreationsInspiration + Perspiration = CreativityAsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.comBlogger85125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-72081707770676502522012-10-24T19:08:00.000-07:002012-10-24T19:08:17.766-07:00Layoffs I've been trying to write this post for about 8 months now. This is a tough one. The short version of the story is that we had a huge lay-off in my work place - almost 200 engineers lost their jobs over a period of a few days. I did not lose my job, but I did go through a big emotional wobble. I pretty much felt like the daffodil in the picture there. I try to keep this blog really upbeat, so I did not have much to write about for a while.<br />
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Here's what I tried to write shortly after the layoff: <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHV3kbJ7AebRZ_sbfSjS8lg_4Wzb61wxoI4V3mIhLdNmCN4oej78CuQ4mo0BS_hAX9hh_S6BeasE84C32usOO49KtFXf2AFVliNzCtnK1D9DhlaEktjPES8eXBZUPx6Jyg3fnDweakEG2w/s1600/SnowDaffodil.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/AVvXsEgHV3kbJ7AebRZ_sbfSjS8lg_4Wzb61wxoI4V3mIhLdNmCN4oej78CuQ4mo0BS_hAX9hh_S6BeasE84C32usOO49KtFXf2AFVliNzCtnK1D9DhlaEktjPES8eXBZUPx6Jyg3fnDweakEG2w/s320/SnowDaffodil.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<i>I've been debating with myself for a few weeks now on whether to write about this subject. My workplace had a huge number of layoffs. Fortunately, I still have a job. I am very grateful for that; I am the breadwinner for my family. Without my income and benefits package, we would be in very serious trouble. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>There are a lot of things that . Many of my friends and long-time coworkers are suddenly gone. Transitions are very important to help people adjust to major changes. That's why we have retirement parties and celebrate marriages. In a layoff, there is no transition. I've worked as an engineer for 16 years in three different industries... </i><br />
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I was having some trouble pulling my thoughts together in that last paragraph... I can't even remember now where I was going with that last sentence! :)<br />
<i> </i><br />
Work has been keeping me really busy. I put my Etsy store and on-line indentity on hold for a while because I was just too tired in the evenings to keep up with it. I am feeling better now. Over the spring and summer I spent my free time doing very tangible things. It is really cool that my family jumped in and made these group activities.<br />
<ul>
<li>We planted a flower garden.</li>
<li>We started composting and vermicomposting.</li>
<li>We planted blueberries, a fig tree, strawberries, raspberries, a lemon tree and a bunch of tomatoes.</li>
<li>We joined a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) and started buying our produce from a local farm.</li>
<li>We stopped buying cereal, crackers and snacks from the store. Now we make most all our food at home.</li>
<li>We built a chicken coop.</li>
<li>We raised 4 chickens who are now just about to start laying.</li>
<li>We trained our chickens and dogs to get along. </li>
</ul>
What is interesting about this list is that these are all things that made me feel more in control of my life. A layoff makes a person lose trust and feel threatened. I needed to do things outside of work to restore my sense of independence from the company and connection to my family, even if it is just in small ways.<br />
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I will post some more details about what we have been up to this summer - especially about the chickens. I did not expect it, but I have fallen completely in love with chickens. I had no idea they could be so delightful!AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-73735547054443969002012-02-09T21:36:00.000-08:002012-02-09T21:36:22.451-08:00Voting for the Etsy Beadweaver Challenge "Nest"Last week I blogged about my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91390714/cute-bracelet-in-yellow-white-and-black">Honeycomb Bracelet</a> - <span id="goog_571969324"></span><a href="http://asteropebc.blogspot.com/2012/01/nest-team-challenge.html">my entry in the Etsy Beadweaver Challenge "Nest"</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnXs9kWS4u3vJ819EvByh47rhcGk4RIOnPJJ0XP0rUDpX4aSx0QgGdrXbPUrPDKbWMLl5UH0Hof8y5xWZvYhpl6W8M_bZwNeV6IWpOtQcxyGCUlvpEm1Xxisd7mDNHBU16nO0jUW_dASeT/s1600/Beaded+Bracelet+12B01G.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnXs9kWS4u3vJ819EvByh47rhcGk4RIOnPJJ0XP0rUDpX4aSx0QgGdrXbPUrPDKbWMLl5UH0Hof8y5xWZvYhpl6W8M_bZwNeV6IWpOtQcxyGCUlvpEm1Xxisd7mDNHBU16nO0jUW_dASeT/s320/Beaded+Bracelet+12B01G.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />I want to let you know that voting has begun and will continue through the 15th. Anyone can vote for their favorite by stopping by the <a href="http://etsy-beadweavers.blogspot.com/2012/02/voting-for-february-challenge-nest.html">Etsy Beadweaver Blog</a>. I really encourage you to stop by and see the amazing entries. <br />
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Here are a few of my favorites from my talented teammates. I love the creativity and skill these entries demonstrate.<br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91820785/first-out-of-the-nest-ebw-february" target="_blank">First Out of the Nest</a> from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BeadsNJane?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">The Bead Beach</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1261758703"><br /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91820785/first-out-of-the-nest-ebw-february" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.309048685.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91584493/cocoon-beadwoven-bracelet-ebwc-nest" target="_blank">Cocoon Beadwoven Bracelet</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BlissWorksStudio?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Bliss Works Studio</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1261758874"><br /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91584493/cocoon-beadwoven-bracelet-ebwc-nest" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="156" src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.306870884.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91105289/the-nest-of-a-beaded-bead" target="_blank">The Nest of A Beaded</a> Bead by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BoonieBeads?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Boonie Beads</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91105289/the-nest-of-a-beaded-bead" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.304971243.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91319202/loreng-the-goblins-nest-beadwoven" target="_blank">Loreng the Goblin's Nest b</a>y <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/flagrantdesigns?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Flagrant Designs</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91319202/loreng-the-goblins-nest-beadwoven" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_fullxfull.305895306.jpg" width="274" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/90904484/beaded-cuff-bracelet-skinny-wrapped-nest" target="_blank">Beaded Cuff Bracelet - Skinny Wrapped - Nest</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/randomcreative?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Random Creative</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1261758833"><br /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/90904484/beaded-cuff-bracelet-skinny-wrapped-nest" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="254" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.304377638.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/90275045/driftwood-carnelian-nest-necklace-ebwc" target="_blank">Driftwood Carnelian Nest Necklace </a>by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/annamei?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">annamei</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/90275045/driftwood-carnelian-nest-necklace-ebwc" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.302087970.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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These are just a few of the fabulous entries - please stop by and choose your own favorite!<br />AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-15443745198380647922012-01-30T20:52:00.000-08:002012-01-30T20:55:48.072-08:00A Bit of PoetryA few weeks ago I blogged about<a href="http://asteropebc.blogspot.com/2012/01/there-be-monsters-here.html"> my younger son's sculptures</a>. Thank you everyone for you nice comments on that post - my son enjoys reading them very much. I've been wanting to feature my older son too, but he is much more private than my younger son. Today, I got my wish - my older son wrote some haiku for school. I love them of course - I am his mom! After some pleading, I got his permission to blog about two of them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68yGK-U99vEBAGL78K8T6o9i3oWzOGxbQMVWtiLvULvnDPdsdtpP7gTq0Xc9u-HEfA8CDNaMtEwitQdc9wTBHl25SxmRF6Q0ZhR3i6HmQYNDCkU7Z25jKWwqesw-HaqLDcorY7YO2UGrZ/s1600/P8150025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68yGK-U99vEBAGL78K8T6o9i3oWzOGxbQMVWtiLvULvnDPdsdtpP7gTq0Xc9u-HEfA8CDNaMtEwitQdc9wTBHl25SxmRF6Q0ZhR3i6HmQYNDCkU7Z25jKWwqesw-HaqLDcorY7YO2UGrZ/s320/P8150025.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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He stares in wonder</div>
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as the geyser erupts</div>
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with steaming waters.</div>
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Wrapping paper flies.</div>
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Children laugh in pure joy.</div>
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This is Christmas Day.</div>
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Thanks for letting me share with you :)AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-65259051445178075142012-01-28T14:45:00.000-08:002012-01-28T14:49:01.027-08:00"Nest" Team ChallengeThis year one of my goals is to enter at least 6 of the monthly challenges from the Etsy Beadweavers Team. Here is my entry for this month: <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_684553136"> Honeycomb Bracelet</a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_684553136"><br /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91390714/cute-bracelet-in-yellow-white-and-black" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtKlOxksSOGsi649NtdbPGwJnNEg5NiqMeTaQPuptn3iWuVySEAejZatVb83WfdF4sbn9ahi3rwWo3_miaY0NPWvW5UGCm28R_NeRm6cryFad_iEhyphenhyphennpZdrXk33qo193f9XFzm11SXbc-_/s320/Beaded+Bracelet+12B01K.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The theme for the Etsy Beadweavers January Challenge is "Nest". Here is a description:<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: blue;">“It
will still be winter in the Northern hemisphere in February and I
believe thinking about nestling could make us feel comfortable. What I
would like us to do: If you think about (or google for) "nest", you will
find much more than birds building nests. Insects like bees, hornets
and others also do.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: blue;">So let´s get
inspired by their pieces of art. Let´s see what ideas nature gives us.
I´m sure, everybody will find a way to find their own interpretation of
NEST……My intention is NOT building whatever nest in beads. When you
think about what associations we have with the term "nest", it´s not
necessary to construct a complete copy of a natural item.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: blue;">For me
structures are important. You cut out a certain detail and transform it
into beaded art, the main thing is that everybody will have the
association NEST!"</span></div>
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You can read more about the challenge here on the <a href="http://etsy-beadweavers.blogspot.com/2011/11/february-2012-challenge-theme-announced.html">Etsy Beadweavers Blog</a>.<br />
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When
I was a child I spent a lot of time at the <a href="http://www.omsi.edu/">Oregon Museum of Science and Industry</a>, which has tons of great, hands-on learning activities. One of the permanent displays in the museum at that time was a bee hive inside a
cylinder of glass. One end of the cylinder was open to the outside of the building so the bees could come and go. It was fascinating to watch the bees fly in and out
of the hive and move around the honey comb. If you touched the glass in
an area where the bees were thickly clustered, it felt warm and cozy. I wanted to capture this feeling in my challenge piece.<br />
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I set out to make open hexagon shapes in warm, golden colors. The first problem I ran into was that the beads tend to pull into a circle on the hexes on the edge of the bracelet, though I do get nice straight hexagon sides where they border each other.<br />
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After a little experimentation, I discovered I could give the edge hexagons a better shape if I added an extra bead at the corners.<br />
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So I made a golden honeycomb bracelet. Now I just needed to choose a clasp. I went down to the fabric store and found some cute honey bee buttons. The only problem was that they just didn't quite go with the colors in by bracelet. This was very sad for me because I really did a good job attaching that bee.<br />
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So I made a new bracelet in yellow, white and black colors. I used black drop-shaped beads in the corners. I think this is a much better match.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUpCNxZi9qJ2jFHMdM4p6T0ww3tz3zicCXRUzk9oyMgATdqJzrwcmc1edSM5xBV4JDekrTKyg3p5EjwXgGKDfjYCb_OuNBCaBlaEkbeyieH-VV9TuWbYV-xuBDYP4HTIgkoyftZfWt5wJ7/s1600/Beaded+Bracelet+12B01I.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUpCNxZi9qJ2jFHMdM4p6T0ww3tz3zicCXRUzk9oyMgATdqJzrwcmc1edSM5xBV4JDekrTKyg3p5EjwXgGKDfjYCb_OuNBCaBlaEkbeyieH-VV9TuWbYV-xuBDYP4HTIgkoyftZfWt5wJ7/s320/Beaded+Bracelet+12B01I.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now I just need to decide what to do with my first bracelet. I'm thinking about folding it into a three dimensional shape and using it as a pendant (after I take the bee off). What do you think?AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-74585379795828561392012-01-22T17:19:00.000-08:002012-01-22T17:19:38.771-08:00Tydying UpI've been making a mess of my workspace. It's in a good cause, but when I make snowflakes, I tend to get out lots of different kinds of beads. I also have lots of left over beads from other projects that I've avoided (I stick them in a little tupperware container for later). These left overs have been accumulating for months now :(<br />
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This last week I've started putting everything away. It's a time consuming but satisfying process. Sometimes I have so few left over beads of each color that it is not worth it to separate them out. I've started collecting these beads into color mixes. When I get enough of them, I will use them in a project.<br />
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<br />Recently <a href="http://www.dunistudio.com/">Duni </a>posted about how she uses her leftover fabric to<a href="http://www.dunistudio.com/2012/01/fabric-scrap-scrunchies.html"> make these very cute scrunchies</a>. I got to thinking, I wonder what all our other crafty friends do with their leftovers? What do you do with your extra fabric, yarn, beads, thread, paper or other supplies?AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-5796740625489314052012-01-17T13:51:00.000-08:002012-01-17T15:59:54.714-08:00Here There Be MonstersLast summer I went to the <a href="http://salemart.org/">Salem Art Fair</a> with my family. My youngest son was especially excited by all the sculpture on display. Until we went to that fair, I had not realized how much my son loves sculpture. He is very gregarious, so he talked to many of the artists and asked them about their art.<br />
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One of the artists he met was George Heath of <a href="http://www.funkermarket.com/">Funker Market</a>. He makes alien monsters that have completely charmed my son. My son has saved his allowance to buy George's monsters and has also asked for them for his birthday. He likes to make up stories about them. He keeps them in a special place in his room.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Darkness Elemental Wearing Unholy Armor</span></div>
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This weekend, we found polymer clay on sale. I bought some for the kids and let them go to town. Both my sons decided to make monsters, inspired by George. You can kind of see George's work in the background of this picture.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Lava Elemental with Shiny Sharp Rocks</span></div>
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George has a shop on Etsy. He makes sculptures and cards that are full of character. My son and I love the funky, funny way he describes his pieces. This <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/73005689/bombastic-sextipod">Bombastic Sextipod</a> is one of my son's favorites right now.<br />
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So thank you to George for inspiring my sons and getting them interested in art!<br />
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How about you, dear readers? Have you ever been inspired by anyone?AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-23443437951657659382012-01-14T08:59:00.000-08:002012-01-14T20:32:59.782-08:00Thank You, Part 3I'd like to show my appreciation to the people you have included me in their treasuries these last several weeks.<br />
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Mariola of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/found300?ref=pr_shop_more">Found300 MVS Glass</a> included my Snowflake in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/NjMzMDg5NnwxNTQ1Nzg2NDkx/winter-joy?index=3">Winter Joy</a> treasury. Mariola creates beautiful stained glass panels, fused glass items, wind chimes, jewelery and much more. I really love her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/79964028/one-sale-everything-15-abstract-art">Abstract Art Fused Glass Pendant</a>. What lovely winter colors!<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_980915500"> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/79964028/one-sale-everything-15-abstract-art" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.300774099.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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MaggeeG of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/CardsbyMaggey?ref=seller_info">Cards by Maggey</a> included my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/33218593/handmade-herringbone-necklace-in-black?ref=tre-1622891647-16">Herringbone Necklace</a> in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTU0NzEwMDZ8MTYyMjg5MTY0Nw/extravagant-elegant-and-essential?index=2">Extravagant, Elegant and Essential</a> treasury. Maggee loves photography. Her cards feature photos she has taken or watercolor art she has painted. She also offers prints of some photos. I just love this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/85961553/old-shed-abandoned">photograph: Old Abandoned Shed</a> - old farm buildings are so picturesque! <br />
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Robin of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/OnceUponaTimeCrafts?ref=seller_info">Once Upon a Time Crafts</a> for included my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/41704381/natural-beauty-dragonfly-handmade?ref=tre-1741142653-8">Natural Beauty Dragonfly Necklace</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80172016/bracelet-nature-inspired-intricate?ref=tre-1741142653-11">Horsetail Falls Bracelet</a> in her<span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTI1ODk4NjJ8MTc0MTE0MjY1Mw/poetry-beauty-romance-love-these-are?index=0">Poetry, beauty, romance, love, these are what we stay alive for...</a> treasury. Robin is a third generation quilter. She has been selling her handmade quilts, dolls, and woven paper hearts at craft shows for 30 years; now we can find her on-line. I really love this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/68517891/embroidered-garden-angel-daisys">Embroidered Garden Angel</a>. She makes me look forward to spring!</span><br />
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As always, thank you to all of you for being a great community!AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-48585457171762271552012-01-11T07:14:00.000-08:002012-01-11T07:14:07.800-08:00Wordless Wednesday: Sunrise<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-44143976909558470452012-01-08T22:40:00.001-08:002012-01-09T02:21:46.334-08:00Thank You, Part 2I'd like to show my appreciation to the people you have included me in their treasuries in December.<br />
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Sheryl of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SherHastingsDesigns?ref=pr_shop_more">Sher Hasting Designs</a> included my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82534390/asymmetric-beadwork-bracelet-in-autumn?ref=tre-1382730587-9">Dance of the Veils Bracelet</a> in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTQzMjUwNzN8MTM4MjczMDU4Nw/fun-fun-fun?index=8">Fun Fun Fun</a> treasury. Sheryl is a talented professional designer. She is also one of my blogging friends. Her blog is called <a href="http://sherscreativespace.blogspot.com/">My Creative Space</a> and is always fun and interesting to read. Sheryl offers PDF digital images for crafters to use in scrapbooking, card making and other craft projects. I am really drawn to these images of tea pots in her<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/84824100/tea-time-graphic-and-clipart-set-tea"> Tea Time Graphic Art and Clipart Set</a> - I love to drink tea, especially in the winter! Sheryl has a tea pot for every occasion here:<br />
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Vanessa of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/VanessaStoryDesigns?section_id=7860092">Vanessa Story Designs</a> included my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82534390/asymmetric-beadwork-bracelet-in-autumn?ref=tre-1438134303-6">Dance of the Veils Bracelet</a> in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTEzNTUwODN8MTQzODEzNDMwMw/ill-have-a-blue-christmas-on-etsy?index=7">I'll Have a Blue Etsy on Christmas Inspired by Nature Gift Ideas</a> treasury. Vanessa was an assistant silversmith to her mother as a child, and as a young adult she was a colorist for her mother's illustrations. These days, Vanessa makes jewelry, jewelry boxes and paintings. She is deeply inspired by nature in her art and jewelry. I really love this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/69069526/necklace-turquoise-with-spider-web">Turquoise Necklace with Spider Web Design</a> - Vanessa has such an interesting story to go with it; be sure to check it out!<br />
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Kalyn of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/KalynDesigns?ref=seller_info">Kalyn Designs</a> included my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82541536/unique-snowflake-in-crystal-silver-blue?ref=tre-1486730475-3">Beaded Snowflake Ornament</a> in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/NjAzMDE5N3wxNDg2NzMwNDc1/snowflakes-keep-falling?index=6">Snowflakes Keep Falling!</a> treasury. Kalyn makes lovely wedding accessories. I especially like her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/13252338/red-hydrangea-and-berries-hair-comb">Red Hydrangea and Berries Hair Comb</a>. It is so pretty!<br />
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Pylly of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SendingLoveGallery">Sending Love Gallery</a> included my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83055708/icy-snowflake-ornament-beaded-in-crystal?ref=tre-1487678195-4">Icy Snowflake Ornament</a> in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/NTY3MDk1MHwxNDg3Njc4MTk1/midnight-snow?index=5">Midnight Snow</a> treasury. Phylly makes beautiful jewelry from precious metals, gemstones, pearls and art glass. I really love the dark iridescence of her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/20621617/black-pearl-bracelet-abalone-shell-beads">Black Pearl Bracelet</a>. I think this bracelet would dress up any outfit.<br />
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Candan of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/CandanImrak">Candan Imrak</a> included my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/85520738/white-snowflake-ornament?ref=tre-1509076891-9">White Snowflake Ornament</a> in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/ODE2ODQyNnwxNTA5MDc2ODkx/mother-of-pearl-holiday-gift-ideas?index=4">Mother of Pearl Holiday Gift Ideas </a>treasury. Candan lives on a beautiful peninsula in Turkey, where she makes wonderful lampwork beads. As a beader, lampwork beads have a special place in my heart. I really love the deep, rich organic colors in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75782394/kilim-lampwork-glass-earrings-holiday">Kilim Lampwork Glass Earrings</a>. <br />
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I have more thank you features to post. Stay tuned for another update. In the meantime, I would like to thank all of you for being a great community. I hope you are having an awesome new year!<br />
<br />AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-6874130687033557552012-01-05T07:48:00.000-08:002012-01-05T23:33:01.570-08:00Thank You, Part 1I'd like to show my appreciation to the people you have included me in their treasuries in December.<br />
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Jeanne of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BlingThingsOriginals">Bling Things Originals</a> included my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82541536/unique-snowflake-in-crystal-silver-blue?ref=tre-1254693635-10">Beaded Snowflake Ornament</a> in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTQ2Mzg1Mjl8MTI1NDY5MzYzNQ/cool-finds-most-under-2500?index=11">Cool Finds</a> treasury. Jeanne makes original, beautiful, knotted beadwork. Her pieces included jewelry, bookmarks and key chains. I particularly like this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/73120238/valentines-day-pink-glass-heart-beaded">Glass Heart Key Chain</a> - pretty for Valentine's Day!<br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Heavenlytreasures123">Heavenly Treasures 123</a> included my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82550881/sparkling-snowflake-ornament-beaded-in?ref=tre-1264419840-10">Sparkling Snowflake Ornament</a> in their very sweet <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/NjcwOTgwMnwxMjY0NDE5ODQw/christmas-is-a-magical-time-of-the-year?index=10">Christmas is a Magical Time of the Year</a> treasury. Heavenly Treasures123 offers fun and original gifts for children. Their <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/81422628/girls-sugar-and-spice-tutus">Girl's Sugar and Spice Tutu</a> is so cute!<br />
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Melissa of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MayflowerMarket?ref=pr_shop_more">May Flower Market</a> included my<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82545226/intricate-snowflake-in-crystal-silver?ref=tre-1266858945-9"> Intricate Beadwork Snowflake</a> in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTUyOTg5NTh8MTI2Njg1ODk0NQ/crafty-christmas?index=9">Crafty Christmas!</a> treasury. Melissa makes fresh, beautiful jewelry that incorporates buttons. Melissa's daughter Rebecca contributes charming crochet hair accessories, dish cloths and amigurumi animals to their shop. (I learned a new vocabulary word writing this post - <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amigurumi">learn more about amigurumi</a>). I really love this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/86892827/button-bracelet-valentine">Valentine Button Bracelet</a>. It has such a polished, stylish look!<br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/RockCandyjewellery?ref=pr_shop_more">Rock Candy Jewellery Studio</a> included my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82550881/sparkling-snowflake-ornament-beaded-in?ref=tre-1312467736-6">Sparkling Snowflake Ornament</a> in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/ODQyNjMwNXwxMzEyNDY3NzM2/let-it-snow?index=8">Let it Snow...</a> treasury. Rock Candy Jewellery makes beautiful jewelry featuring natural stones. One of my favorites is <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/72102799/mysticalsterling-silver-rainbow">Mystical...Sterling Silver Rainbow Moonstone Necklace</a>. I love the iridescence in this necklace!<br />
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Gidget of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/GidgetsPhotography">Full of Light Photography</a> included my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82541536/unique-snowflake-in-crystal-silver-blue?ref=tre-1370541965-3">Beaded Snowflake Ornament</a> in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTI5MDg3OTJ8MTM3MDU0MTk2NQ/ice-blue-christmas?index=7">Ice Blue</a> treasury. Gidget uses the process of Natural Illumination to capture the heart, light and essence of what she is photographing. This print... <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/71960032/fine-art-photography-8-x-10-print-plants">Fine Art 8 x 10 Print - Plants - Balance</a> is just beautiful!<br />
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I have many more people to thank, but I think 5 features in one blog post is enough. I will continue with more thank you features in a few days.<br />
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As always, thanks to all of you for being a fantastic community.AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-54221720003195842492012-01-03T21:11:00.000-08:002012-01-03T21:11:07.290-08:00How NOT to Take a Blogging BreakOK, I did it all wrong. I took a break, but I did not let anyone know I was taking a break. I didn't really plan on stepping away from my blog, but in December I went into a creative overdrive that consumed my free time. I made tons of snowflakes and did a lot of creative writing. Everyone got a snowflake for Christmas this year :)<br />
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I found a nice discussion about a better way to take blogging breaks here at <a href="http://productivewriters.com/2011/12/12/blogging-bloggers-breaks/">Productive Writers</a>. I thought the article had some good suggestions. The people who commented on it also had some interesting thoughts.<br />
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I have a lot of catching up to do - people to feature, stories and photos to share... and I am looking forward to catching up on all of your posts!<br />
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I hope you all had a great holiday and new year!AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-3153825071084838582011-11-27T11:35:00.001-08:002011-11-27T13:17:14.640-08:00Making Beaded SnowflakesAt this time of year, I particularly enjoy making <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/AsteropeBC?section_id=7508399">snowflakes</a>. Even though they are a relatively small project for me, they completely take over my beading space when I work on them. My beading mat fills up with dozens of tiny piles of beads. <br />
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I like to mix many different textures, shapes, sizes and colors. I mostly use glass beads, but sometimes I add a pearl, shell or gemstone bead. So far I have used bright colors sparingly, which is why some of my bead piles are so small. <br />
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It is amazing how many different kinds of white there are. So far my work has been strictly in cool whites; I haven't even broken into my boxes of warm cream colors yet. I want to make some ivory snowflakes too, maybe with amber touches.<br />
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Each snowflake has been unique - I make up the pattern as I go along. This takes longer than working from a set pattern. Sometimes I try something that doesn't work very well and it takes me several tries to get the get a snowflake to look right. I keep meaning to make copies of some of my favorite <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/AsteropeBC?section_id=7508399">snowflakes </a>so far, but it's more fun to try something new.<br />
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How about you? Do you have a favorite winter project?<br />AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-67171252469122600952011-11-24T04:00:00.000-08:002011-11-24T18:02:51.729-08:00Thankful for the Happy MemoriesThanksgiving is a holiday about remembering your blessings and being together with the people you treasure. My mother recently gave me a thumb drive full of old family photos she had scanned into the computer. I thought I would share some of the pictures that bring back lots of happy memories for me.<br />
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Here are my older brother, my younger sister and I. I especially like the photo of my sister looking through the window - it really captures her sweet personality. <br />
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These are my grandparents. They lived on a farm. When we came to visit, they let us drive the tractor, most of the cars, and an Honda 3 wheeler (they were legal in those days).<br />
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Here are my brother and sister riding the 3 wheeler together.<br />
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My parents took us on lots of camping trips when we were growing up, which is probably why I love camping and areas of natural beauty so much as an adult.<br />
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Of course, we had the trip to Disneyland. I remember riding in that giant tea cup with my mother made me feel so special. <br />
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This collage is a group of special memories that didn't fit with the rest: my childhood best friend (notice the Pinto in the background?), a trip to Mt. Palamar, me wearing a red dress my great grandmother made in 1928, and the family dog. I think I still have that pillow she is laying on.<br />
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I hope you all have a great Thanksgiving and make some wonderful memories this weekend!AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-4111308301031108842011-11-22T21:07:00.001-08:002011-11-23T00:09:08.550-08:00Wordless Wednesday: Rose Hips<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-83655630561953396962011-11-16T22:17:00.001-08:002011-11-17T00:45:10.228-08:00Thank You ThursdayI'd like to show my appreciation to the people you have included me in their treasuries in the last few weeks.<br />
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Thanks to VariousGeekery for featuring my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/84264052/winter-ornament-snowflake-beaded-in">Winter Ornament Snowflake</a> in Cold Snap. VariousGeekery does not have a shop, so I will post the treasury itself.<br />
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Please help me thank <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/VariousGeekery/treasury?ref=pr_treasury_more">VariousGeekery </a>(who loves to make treasuries on Etsy) by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/VariousGeekery/treasury?ref=pr_treasury_more">visiting and commenting on any of their treasuries</a>.
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Thanks to Josephine of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/brooksbeads">Josephine Brooks Design</a> for including my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/58614076/harvest-beaded-necklace-in-purple-green">Grapevine Necklace</a> in her lovely treasury <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/Mjk1NDR8MTA2ODY2NjIxNw/wine-country">Wine Country</a>. Josephine makes beautiful lampwork beads. I really love her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/85740520/purple-dragonfly-lampwork-bead">Purple Dragonfly Lampwork Bead</a>! <br />
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Thanks to Sharri of the Beaded Bead for including my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/33274588/green-gold-and-white-leaf-earrings">Leaf Earrings</a> in her stunning<span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTEwODczMzl8MTEyMDg5MzM4Nw/warm-thanksgiving-wishes-from-the">Warm Thanksgiving Wishes from the Treasury Challenge NonTeam</a>. Sharri makes gorgeous beadwork beads, jewelry and patterns. Her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82540608/sea-anemone-handcrafted-bead-jewelry">Sea Anemone Pendant</a> with tiger's eye, green garnet, tourmaline and pearls is absolutely amazing!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Thanks to <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/gildedhedgie">Guildedhedgie</a> for including my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82541536/unique-snowflake-in-crystal-silver-blue">Unique Snowflake Ornament</a> in the exquisite </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTYxNDIyNjd8MTEzMzE3MDQyOA/sparkly-silver-and-blue-holiday-decor">Sparkly Silver and Blue Holiday Decor</a> treasury. Guildedhedgie makes fun and quirky crafts; talents include sewing, knitting and jewelry. Like me, Guildedhedgie is an engineer who needs a creative outlet :) This <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/84036987/autumn-colors-scarf">Autumn Colors Scarf</a> is perfect for fall!<br />
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Thanks to Karen of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MysticWynd">Mystic Wynd</a> for including my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82538510/beautiful-snowflake-ornament-in-crystal">Beautiful Snowflake Ornament</a> in her very lovely<a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/NjM1ODEzN3wxMTMyOTQ0MzM3/first-snowflakes-of-the-season"> First Snowflakes of the Season</a> treasury. Karen makes wonderful jewelry. I especially love her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80760702/autumn-charm-bracelet-with-moss-agate">Autumn Charm Bracelet</a>. I am a big fan of both copper and moss agate.<br />
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As always, thanks to all of you for being an awesome community! I hope you have enjoyed these features as much as I have :)<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"> </span>AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-15968005470790245362011-11-15T20:40:00.001-08:002011-11-15T20:44:05.882-08:00Wordless Wednesday: Lone Leaf<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-91438669901017279172011-11-14T20:43:00.001-08:002011-11-14T23:13:22.614-08:00Avoiding Sinus InfectionsI haven't been very active in any social media for the last week, including blogging. I've had a sinus infection that has left me wiped out. I could not afford to stay home sick for the last week, so I've just been working and resting. Now I am finally starting to feel better.<br />
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I have a history of having lots of sinus infections. Over the years, I have learned tricks to prevent illness and to shorten the duration when I do get sick. This year I have only had 2 sinus infections (in years past, I have had one every 6 weeks or so).<br />
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I thought I would share what has worked for me, since we are coming into cold and flu season. The basic strategy is to keep mucus thin. When mucus is more fluid, it washes viruses and bacteria down to the stomach, where they are destroyed by stomach acids. Thinning mucus also helps relieve the awful stuffy head caused by sinus infection.<br />
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<b>1. </b><b>Vitamin D:</b> This has probably made the biggest difference for me. I now take 4000 IU per day of vitamin D (10 times the USDA recommended level). Several times, I have run out and stopped taking it for a week or so - each time I get sick. There is a ton of research going on right now about all the ways vitamin D is beneficial to many different aspects of health. Many people are deficient in vitamin D, especially in my part of the world. It is possible to take too much of this vitamin, so it is important to talk to your doctor. When I have blood work done to check my cholesterol and so forth, I ask them to check the level of vitamin D in my blood and adjust my dose as needed.<br />
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<b>2. Diet:</b> I try to make sure I eat lots of fruits and vegetables. They say you should eat 5 servings - I shoot for 9. I also try to make sure I eat enough protein, which is hard for me because I am a picky eater when it comes to meat. I really limit my carbs, especially sugar and flour - no sodas, no candy, and very little bread. <br />
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<b>3. Exercise:</b> I play soccer twice a week and try to walk every day. Sometimes when I am getting sick exercising hard in a soccer game makes me feel better.<br />
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<b>4. Hydrate:</b> When I am dehydrated I get more stuffy. Drinking lots of water helps keep mucus thin. <br />
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<b>5. Saline Nasal Irrigation:</b> This will sound kind of weird if you have never done it, but rinsing my sinuses with a saline wash can really help remove infections and even relieve allergy symptoms. The rinsing action of the water helps carry away allergens and invading virus or bacteria, and the water itself helps thin mucus. Irrigation also helps reduce inflammation, allowing a wider passage for mucus to drain to the stomach.<br />
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<b>6. Kelp (iodine):</b> I was going to an acupuncturist for help at one point, and he suggested taking an iodine supplement. I learned that iodine helps thin mucus, and I was amazed how well it worked. Kelp has a lot of iodine in it, so nowadays I take a kelp supplement instead of iodine drops. I read up on iodine (I think it is always a good idea to do your own research on supplements) and found out that if you take too much it can cause thyroid problems. I ask my doctor to check my thyroid function when I get blood work done.<br />
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<b>7. Hot Tea/Water:</b> Both green and black tea are very healthy in different ways. I drink both. I find that hot tea or hot water is soothing when I am stuffed up; it helps to thin mucus. If I am feeling too dehydrated for tea but still want something hot and steamy, I drink hot water, sometimes with peppermint extract added. I am careful when I decide to add peppermint - the first few seconds after I add the extract to the hot water, the peppermint is strong enough to be
uncomfortable.<br />
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<b>8. Steam:</b> Inhaling steam, especially though your nose if you can, can help a stuffy head and thin mucus. Sometimes I add a few drops of peppermint extract to the hot water. I am careful when I decide to add peppermint - the first few seconds
after I add the extract to the hot water, the peppermint is strong
enough to be
uncomfortable.<br />
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<b>9. Hot Pack:</b> A hot pack improves circulation, allowing more of the antibodies in the blood to reach the infection. I recently got a hot pack with a mixture of flax seeds and peppermint leaves. The peppermint really magnifies the effect of the hot pack. I like it, but it might be uncomfortable for some people.<br />
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<b>10. Other Supplements: </b> Taking other supplements does not make as a clear a difference as vitamin D does, but I think they do help. I take a good quality multivitamin every day. When I am sick, I also take extra vitamin A, C and E, extra zinc, echinacea and goldenseal.<br />
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<b>11. Gargle:</b> When I have a sore throat I gargle with salt water. It helps for a while. Sometimes I have to gargle pretty frequently. I keep a box of kosher salt in my desk at work. I have read one should use non-iodized salt to gargle, but I am not sure why.<br />
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<b>12. Get Help:</b> I prefer to take care of my illnesses myself using more gentle, natural methods. But I also need to know when to use pharmaceuticals or go to the doctor to get an antibiotic.<br />
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This is what works for me - I really believe everyone's body works a little different, so it is important to experiment and see what works for you. Do you have any tips for cold and flu season? I would love to hear about them - I might add them to my repertoire!AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-57927919688987611622011-11-02T21:31:00.001-07:002011-11-02T21:32:46.150-07:00Wordless Wednesday: The Last Raspberries<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-50384803179135965182011-10-27T23:13:00.000-07:002011-10-27T23:13:13.127-07:00Thank You ThursdayI was very fortunate to be featured in two beautiful treasuries this week. I'd like to take a moment to thank the curators of these treasuries.<br />
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The first treasury is <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTY2NzA2MTB8OTY0NTkzMjE5/pablo-picasso-turns-130?index=1">Pablo Picasso Turns 130</a> by Alexia of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Porcuprints">Porcuprints</a>. Thank you for including my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82534390/asymmetric-beadwork-bracelet-in-autumn?ref=tre-964593219-16">Dance of the Veils</a> bracelet, which, as it happens, was my entry in the <a href="http://etsy-beadweavers.blogspot.com/2011/10/voting-for-october-challenge-inspired.html">Etsy Beadweavers Picasso Challenge</a>. Alexia designs and prints beautiful wood engraving and letterpress fine art prints. I just love this elegant <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82744155/flamingos-wood-engraving-original">Flamingos Wood Engraving Print</a>:<br />
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The next treasury is <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/NjI0NzE0Nnw5NzMxODQ0NzQ/white-white-snow-on-blue-christmas?index=0">White White Snow on Blue Christmas</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/katinytis#">Katinytis</a>. Thank you for including my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83055708/icy-snowflake-ornament-beaded-in-crystal?ref=tre-973184474-11">Icy Snowflake Ornament</a>. At <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/katinytis#">Katinytis </a>you can find wonderful felted scarves, brooches, earrings and more. This <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/35194250/felted-scarf-collar">Felted Scarf-Collar</a> looks very warm and stylish for a crisp autumn day!<br />
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I would also like to thank Rose of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/randomcreative">Random Creative</a> for inspiring me to do a Thank You Thursday feature. I've had a great response from the blogging community and the artists who are featured. I saw it first on her blog <a href="http://www.randomcreativeart.com/">The Beadings and Buttons of Random Creative</a>. Rose makes intricate jewelry from beads and buttons. Her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83532742/button-bracelet-fall-autumn-red-orange">Autumn Colored Button Bracelet</a> is so appealing! The colors are perfect for fall!<br />
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As always, thank you to all of you for being an awesome community!AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-58240417254391483152011-10-26T17:56:00.000-07:002011-10-26T17:56:40.237-07:00Wordless Wednesday: Looking Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-62958595078768477662011-10-25T08:30:00.000-07:002011-10-25T08:30:27.355-07:00Donating to a Silent AuctionMy friends and relatives know that I am always ready to donate my jewelry to a silent auction. I really enjoy being able to contribute to a good cause. This month I've been working on a necklace to donate for <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Inspirational-Sounds-Gospel-Choir-Eugene-Oregon/118011998238138">Inspirational Sounds</a>, a gospel choir that my mother-in-law is in. I wanted to make something that had a musical or Christian theme, but I was not feeling inspired. <br />
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About a month ago, I caught a terrible stomach flu. I was sick in bed,
unable to move, when the idea hit me - I could bead a necklace inspired
by sheet music. I could see it all in my mind, the technical aspects of
how I would make the necklace.<br />
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I had to buy some supplies because I did not have any 5 hole spacers. I had never made beaded notes before, so I wasn't sure how big they would be or how the spacing would work out on the beaded "staff". I chose an easy hymn to depict, one that is well known: Jesus Loves Me<br />
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I had a few problems making this necklace. When I was a child, I had a tendency to copy musical notes backward. Evidently, I still do that, because I attached the first two measures backward! I had to cut to notes off and start over. <br />
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Now I need to get this necklace in the mail in time for the auction. <br />
Do any of you ever donate your work to charity? What are your favorite charities? I'd love to hear from you!<br />
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<br />AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-43914631645671608702011-10-21T00:18:00.000-07:002011-10-21T00:18:04.404-07:00Thank You ThursdayI've been honored to be included in several treasuries this week - I'd like to thank the curators by featuring them in my blog.<br />
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Thank you to Rose of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/basketsbyrose?ref=pr_shop_more">Baskets by Rose</a> for including my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82545226/intricate-snowflake-in-crystal-silver">Intricate Beadwork Snowflake</a> in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/NTc5MTA2MXw4ODE1MDczNTA/flakes?index=4">Flakes</a> treasury! Rose makes beautiful woven baskets with reeds she has dyed herself. Rose also sews lovely quilts. I particularly love this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/78081540/bun-basket-hand-woven-in-brown">Bun Basket</a> - perfect for Thanksgiving dinner! <br />
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Thank you to Natasha of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/scraptrapped?ref=pr_shop_more">Looped with Love</a> for including my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83055708/icy-snowflake-ornament-beaded-in-crystal">Icy Snowflake Ornament</a> in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/NjQ4NDk0OHw5MDA2MTQ0OTI/snowflakes-in-october?index=3">Snowflakes in October</a> treasury! Natasha crochets hats, cell phone cozies or cases, totes and bags, crocheted scarves and stuffed animals. She has such a wonderful variety of items in her shop! I just love these cute <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/81734854/baby-booties-and-beanie-hat-crocheted-in">Baby Booties and Beanie Hat</a>! Aren't the colors beautiful?<br />
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Thank you to Justine of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/justinesanchez">Justine Sanchez</a> for including my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82541536/unique-snowflake-in-crystal-silver-blue">Unique Snowflake</a> in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTY2MzMyODB8OTIxNDkyNjk0/winters-little-miracles?index=2">Winter's Little Miracles</a> treasury. Justine uses her talents for scrapbooks to make decorative frames. I really like this romantic <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/81948853/cute-and-fun-embellished-frame">Embellished Frame</a>:<br />
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Thank you to my blogging friend <a href="http://www.dunistudio.com/">Duni</a> of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/PeriDotbyDuni">PeriDot by Duni</a> for including my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/81612474/floral-beadwork-neckace-in-gray-pink-and">Floral Necklace</a> in her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTE5ODg3NTB8OTI1OTcyMzE0/melange-of-pink-and-grey?index=1">Melange of Pink and Grey</a> treasury! A while back Duni had written a <a href="http://www.dunistudio.com/2011/09/orchid-pink-gray.html">post about this color scheme</a>, which inspired me to make the necklace. How marvelous to see it in her treasury! Duni makes feminine, romantic sleepwear using designer fabrics. I just love colors, the pattern and the style of this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74008230/lounge-wear-peasant-blouse-and-pant-set">Peasant Blouse Set</a>!<br />
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As always, thank you to all of you for being a great community!<br />
<br />AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-92214893247131741522011-10-19T08:44:00.000-07:002011-10-19T08:44:43.594-07:00Wordless Wedensday - Orange!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-29343264545390729662011-10-18T19:12:00.000-07:002011-10-18T20:28:13.584-07:00The Family Pumpkin PatchEach year, my parents grow pumpkins for their grandkids to carve at Halloween. My parents live on 5 acres now, so they have room to grow plenty of pumpkins for us and our friends. The pumpkins look especially good this year.<br />
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There were a couple of flowers still in bloom on the vines. It's too late for them to turn into pumpkins!<br />
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Normally we carve the pumpkins together too, but this year our schedules worked out so that we harvested a little too early to carve on the same day. Of course we started out with lunch and cookie decorating for the kids.<br />
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I couldn't resist sampling the parsley in the garden. It was so juicy and sweet!<br />
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The dogs got a chance to play too. My parents' place is fenced, so they can safely run and play chase in a large area. Here they are running through an area that was tilled for planting next year.<br />
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The black and white dog is Glacier, and the brown dog is Gobi. Chase is their favorite game. They ran for hours. <br />
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After we played around for a while, we decided it was time to load up the pumpkins. My dad cut them off the vines.<br />
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Then we washed the dirt off.<br />
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The next part was fun - we loaded them into a trailer and used my parent's little tractor to haul them over to the cars.<br />
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At the end of the day, we each drove home with a load of pumpkins.<br />
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Do you have any harvest or seasonal activities for autumn? I'd love to hear about it!AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510236954826775368.post-5059206066766401412011-10-12T23:55:00.000-07:002011-10-12T23:56:01.735-07:00Thank You ThursdayI have been very fortunate this week to be featured in several treasuries. I'd like to take a moment to thank the curators and show you some of their fabulous creations.<br />
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First up is a beautiful, wintery collection, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTQ4MjIwODB8ODM1NTk4MTM1/so-many-snowflakes?index=3">So Many Snowflakes</a> by Melissa of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BinskyB">BinskyB</a>. Thank you for including my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82781366/beaded-snowflake-ornament-in-crystal?ref=tre-835598135-8">beaded snowflake ornament</a>! Melissa makes beautiful decorations, such as this lovely <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83104836/origami-kusudama-flower-ball-ornament">origami ornament</a> made from sheet music. <br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83104836/origami-kusudama-flower-ball-ornament" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.275620034.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The next treasury is the very romantic <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/NjU3ODk5Nnw4NDQwNjc3MzA/love-in-white?index=2">Love in White</a> by Gala of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/galafilc">Gala Filc</a>. Thank you for including my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82550881/sparkling-snowflake-ornament-beaded-in?ref=tre-844067730-11">sparkling snowflake ornament</a>! Gala using felting and other techniques to make scarves, handbags and other handmade treasures. I just love this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83738865/nuno-felted-scarf-shibori-yellow-savanna">felted scarf</a>.<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_87978736"><br /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83738865/nuno-felted-scarf-shibori-yellow-savanna" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.277774001.jpg" width="262" /></a></div>
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Next is bright and cheerful <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/NDc2NjR8ODUxNDk2MDAx/orange-and-olive?index=1">Orange and Olive</a> by Maya of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/athenaknits">The Parthecraft</a>. Thank you for including my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/34965431/fall-necklace-in-copper-green-and-white?ref=tre-851496001-13">fall necklace</a>. Maya sews and knits handmade pet toys, hats, aprons, totes and so much more! I really love this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/72003145/wild-rose-beaded-cowl">wildrose beaded cowl</a>.<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_87978762"><br /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/72003145/wild-rose-beaded-cowl" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.235336198.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Lastly, I would like to thank Nicole for including my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80172016/bracelet-nature-inspired-intricate?ref=tre-864965066-11">Horsetail Falls bracelet</a> in her lovely Summer Storm treasury. Nicole does not have a shop, so I will feature her treasury instead. Please stop by for a look - she has done a wonderful job of curating.<br />
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I would also like to thank all of you for being a wonderful community! Have a great weekend :)AsteropeBChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00817037452467879666noreply@blogger.com9