Blog Carnival: What are your favorite color combinations?

What are your favorite color combinations and what do you create with these colors?

I would love to hear of your color inspirations, but for me I tend to do a lot with greens and blues. I also really like how amazonite and red coral looks together. I really love the ocean and the sand. I love the warm weather, especially now that it's like -2000 degrees here. I also am partial to purple for some unknown reason. I like amethyst and dyed purple jade.

Here are a few examples of my favorite color combinations in the jewelry that I've created:

This bracelet was created as a Christmas present

for my son's preschool aid.  There is a little

charm that says "inspire" at the clasp.

This necklace was created using Amazonite and 

a red Cinnabar heart.  I envisioned a bridesmaid

wearing this piece at her friend's wedding.

So, what colors inspire your creative side.  Inquiring minds want to know!!!

Featured EtsyBlogger: Pruitt Handcrafts!

Wow, Linda is a crafty grandmother of 24.  She has three separate etsy shops and does some amazing work as well as, supports the etysybloggers street team.  Congrats for being December's Featured Etsyblogger.

Pruitt Designs, Pruitthandcrafts, and Pruitt Supply are the 3 shops that she maintains on etsy.  Here are a sampling of a few of my favorite things from Linda's shops:



Congrats and keep up the amazing work!

Support Local and USA Artisans!

I had a great experience at the Phoenixville Farmers' Market last Saturday and I will be there again this Saturday selling my jewelry. It was refreshing to see so many people brave the cold weather to support the local community.  There were farmers selling produce; Amish selling baked and canned goods; butchers selling bison, fresh poultry, and pork; a fisherwoman who was selling salmon she actually caught with her husband in Alaska; and various artisans selling items they create with their own hands.

This holiday season, I encourage you all to support your local communities and artisans.  You can find so many unique gifts for those people on  your lists.  Additionally, you should feel good about helping out people in our country and supporting their hard work.  You may pay a little more, but it's worth it to know you are doing a good deed.  Don't forget to get the fixins' for your holiday meals from local growers, as well.

Here are a few ideas of places to go if you are in Eastern PA area:

*Give the gift of health:  get a massage gift certificate for a one-of-a-kind location- EXHALE RETREAT.
*Give the gift of a priceless memory: portraits by Priceless Moments by Melia.
*Give the gift of serenity and balance: give a yoga class package from High Street Yoga and Wellness.
*Shop for unique gifts for everyone on your lists- Patsy's Potpourri of Gifts and Kaliedoscope Angels.

Holiday Glamour

My dear friend is having her 20th high school reunion and she wanted to get the perfect outfit so she feels good about herself.  After having 3 kids and staying home for the past several months on maternity leave, the standard mommy attire just didn't cut it and didn't make her feel good about herself.  I helped her put together a smokin' hot outfit complete with sparkly tank, shrug with some feathers around the collar, tight black pants and tall leather boots.  She really looks fantastic.  The only thing missing was her jewelry.  I told her I would create something that would compliment the outfit perfectly.
Here is what I came up with for her.  This is not the exact set but something very similar.  It is perfect for the holidays coming up (Christmas parties, New Years, Hanukkah).  I also think it would be great if you are having a black and white wedding.  It would be really pretty to add that touch of glam to the bridesmaids dresses.  Another great thing about these pieces is that I could create the same thing using a different colors scheme to make any outfit look fantastic!

I would love to hear your thought on these pieces.

Blog Carnival: Inspiration

Inspiration???? Hmmmm, that's a tricky one. I am inspired by so many different things depending on my mood. If I'm feeling Zen, I like to create jewelry with affirmations like "meditate, love, and om" on them.

            Dyed Jade and faceted glass with sterling silver clasp.

Silver plated Om charm and love inspiration.

If I am longing for the ocean or the beach, I like to create pieces using hues of green and blue with some sea glass thrown in. Or I like to use dolphins, sea stars, or sand dollars.

Turquoise nugget focal bead with turquoise colored glass rondelles and

twisted green sea glass.  Silver plated toggle.

My favorite season is Autumn and during this time I am inspired by the changing colors and I like to use hues of orange, red, yellow and copper...oooohhhh, I love copper.

Glass and carnelian with copper toggle and beads.

Really no matter what, I can be inspired by just about anything in my surroundings. I like natural looking stones and ceramics and sometimes I like to add a touch of silk ribbon.

I guess as an artist, I can find inspiration and beauty in everything. One day I could look at something and not be inspired, but the next day, I can come up with something beautiful by looking at the same thing.

"What you see depends on what you are looking for."

EtsyBloggers Featured Blogger: Devine Designs Jewelry

Every month the Etsybloggers Street Team picks a different member to highlight their talents.  November's featured artisan is Devine Designs Jewelry.


Devine Design Jewelry owner says that she is  mostly a self-taught wire and cold forge metal jewelry artist.  She tries  to take metal to the extreme; by bending and twisting to create unique designs. She uses lots of wire to make twists, coils, and spirals that she adds to her work. She strives to form designs that have not been done before, original works of art jewelry. 
She only uses high quality components in her jewelry such as: sterling silver, high grade Thai silver, pure copper, gemstones and artisan made glass beads.
Here is a sampling of her unique creations:

Happy Harvest Time

Thanksgiving is right around the corner.  This year, my family is the lucky host of the holiday.  My husband's family and my dear friend's family will be sitting down to feast and give thanks with us.  I feel so blessed to have such wonderful people to share my Thanksgiving with.  Along with the usual turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole and green bean casserole I like to come up with a festive table setting.  We use paper plates and I like to come up with a fun centerpiece.  This year I am putting these fun pilgrim hats in the center of each table along with some votive candles.  The votives will have dried beans and candles inside and then wrapped with raphia ribbon.  The pilgrim hats were so easy to make.  I painted a terra cotta pot black and then hot glued on some white ribbon and a silver jewelry link.  Then I added some flowers of my choice.  I'm sure you could make these interesting centerpieces too.

I also have some fall inspired jewelry that I would like to wear, but that's another post.
I hope I've got you coming up with some fun ways to spruce up your Thanksgiving table too!

Happy Crafting!

Some New Baubles

New Jewelry November - free slideshow maker

I did a small craft show on Friday night and for the size of the show and the amount of people and the competition I had, I did very well.  I got so much positive feedback on my items and my set up.  I really do feel that I have SOMETHING for everyone.  I have pieces for the young and old, at all price points.  I am very proud of the quality of my pieces.  I use sterling silver and silver plated materials and I use wire guardians to prevent wear and tear at the clasps.  The pieces I create will last for many special occasions and beyond!

Thanks for taking a look!

Beadaholiqe Giveaway

Check out Andrew Thornton's blog and follow the directions. You could win this fantastic prize from Beadaholique.

Contest giveaway ends at midnight 11/1 EST.  Don't delay, enter today!

Holiday Ornaments

In preparation for the Phoenixville Farmer's Market Holiday Markets where I will be an artisan, I came up with some ornaments that I wanted to share with everyone. I have been working on lots of earrings, necklaces and bracelets which can all be viewed on the Hammi Jammi Jewelry Facebook Page. I will be there on December 4, 2010 and would love to see you there. Come meet me and other artisans and have a great time browsing the Holiday Markets, have some food, and celebrate the spirit of the holidays!

Holilday Ornaments - how to create a free slideshow

Etsybloggers Blog Carnival: What are your favorite scary movies???

The topic for discussion for this half of the month is "What are your top 3 horror movies and why do they scare you???"

Let me say that a horror movie is not on the top of my list to watch. Not because they scare me but because I find most of them gruesome with needless violence. I'm not into the Friday the Thirteenth movies or any in that type of genre. I prefer the scary movies that seem more "realistic" to me. So, I would have to say my top two are:

1) Blaire Witch Project
2) The Shining

I think these movies provoke real fear in a real world setting. The deaths are left more up to the imagination and scare the crap out of me.

The third movie that I would have to say scares me is "Dracula." When I was little and by little I want to say 12 or 13, I watched a version of Dracula called "Blackula" with the vampire being a black male. I watched it at my grandmother's house and for some reason I was too afraid to sleep alone for the next few weeks. I remember pulling a mattress into my little sister's room and sleeping on her floor (like she would be able to protect me....HA!).

So, what are your favorite scary movies?

Happy Halloween! and Happy Hauntings!

Splendid Little Stars and Sparkly Park: Featured Etsyblogger

Margaret is a very active member of the etsybloggers street team and she's been selected as this month's featured etsyblogger. Congrats to you.

She owns two different etsy shops:

Splendid Little Stars and Sparkly Park. Splendid Little Stars contains many hand dyed and painted items and Sparkly Park contains some of her jewelry creations. She also blogs about her crafts at http://www.SplendidLittleStars.blogspot.com.

She's been selling hand~dyed and hand~painted clothing for about 20 years now. She's been making jewlery for much longer than that. For about 4 years, at the turn of the century, She owned a gift shop along with other artisians. They made and sold their own creations along with some "ready-mades." She says that the most meaningful part of this was the relationships formed with the treasured customers. As an etsy seller myself, I can understand this. I create for the customers and really love when people fall in love with my creations. Customers are so appreciative of the crafts we as artisans can provide.

The North Coventry Food Pantry Needs Your Support

The North Coventry Food Pantry has been in existence for more than 20 years and assists over 70 families in the entire OJR School District Community.  They heavily rely on donations to supplement what they receive from the Department of Agriculture.  Donations are always needed. The Pantry needs canned foods, beverages, cleaning supplies, paper products and more.

I just received a very sad email from a friend who volunteers for the Pantry.  I thought I would share some of the message with you, in the hopes that you could spread the word if you live in the Pottstown area:

".... just finished packing our food for distribution for the month of October.   I have to tell you that in my 5 + years of volunteering for the food pantry I have never seen the shelves so bare.  We are currently serving approx. 70 families.  We continue to have 2 or 3 new families each month.  The food we receive each month from the department of agriculture (what we call our State food) has decreased in the past couple of months. It is supposed to be considered a 3 day supply of food for our clients.  Last month we only received peanut butter, apple sauce, cheddar cheese soup, juice, and a frozen meat. For the month of Oct. we received apple sauce, egg noodles, dried milk and peaches, orange juice and 1 meat.  We are relying more than ever on the donated food to supplement what the state is giving us.

...if we had to pack for our Nov. distribution with what I have on the shelves the boxes would be very light.  I would say we have about 2 months of vegetables and soups left.  We try to give 4 cans of each out.  We have a 1 month supply (each client only receiving 1 can or box) of the following: fruit, pasta, canned pasta, tuna, peanut butter, mac and cheese, beans, and Ramen noodles.  We are completely out of breakfast items, jelly, desserts, and sides dishes.  We have not had enough "luxury" items to hand out lately like toothpaste and soap.  We have been purchasing our toilet paper and paper towels products for the last few months.  We were fortunate to have a monterary donation from Grainger to help us with those items." 

 So I bet you are wondering what you can do to help out.  Here are a few suggestions:

 1) Make a food or monetary donation directly to the Pantry.  It is suggested that you contact Mrs. Gilligan for the current need suggestion list and for contribution drop off arrangements. You can also drop off at the Pantry (lower level, off Urner St.) on the first Tuesday of the month during monthly distribution between 9-10 a.m.

2) Participate in the "Make a Difference Day."  On Friday, October 1st (the unofficial kick-off) at the Owen J. Roberts High School Football game we will be collecting donations of non-perishable food, paper goods, personal care items as well as monetary donations to benefit the North Coventry Food Pantry.  Collection boxes will be located at each gate.  On Oct. 23rd is deemed "Make a Difference Day" in the OJR District.  The will be an event at the middle school to collect food to benefit the North Coventry Food Pantry. Please check the school district website for additional information. Each school will be hosting a collection during the month.

I know I will be heading out to the grocery store tomorrow to pick up a few bags that I can donate.  I will look for canned goods (you can sometimes get 10 for $10), and personal care items.  I just know how fortunate I am to have food on my table 3 meals a day...no questions asked...it's always there for me.  As a mother, I can't imagine putting my kids to bed at night without food in their bellies.

I hope you are able and willing to help out your community members with this effort and show some love and compassion for those in need.  

Working With Memory Wire

Memory wire is made from stainless steel and is used as a beading medium.  It's called "memory" because it is already formed in the shape of rings, like a spring, and it stays in this form for the most part, unless you really overwork it. Even then, it will still be like a spring, just larger because overworking it can make it stretch its shape a little. But generally speaking, this material is very easy to work with. It comes in bracelet, ring, and necklace size.   I think that it's the perfect way for beginners to start working with.  I am also thinking of teaching the campers how to make some memory wire bracelets for the Arrowhead Day Camp elective classes that I teach in July.

I have been making quite a few Memory Wire bracelets as of late.  I really like making these for two reasons:  They are pretty much one-size-fits all; They also are fairly inexpensive to create.  

I tend to use bead chips and then add some larger beads to add interest.  I also like to make bead dangles and add them to the loops on one side of the bracelet.  For the dangles I use beads and chips from the bracelet design and then I like to add a message tag (happiness, dream, laugh etc.)

 Here are two examples of pieces I've recently created:

For this bracelet, I used Carnelian nuggets and Turquoise chips.  

This bracelet is made using light Amethyst chips and handcrafted ceramic beads. 

For the dangle, I added a message tag and some Amethyst Swarovski crystals.

Thanks for stopping by to take a look!

Wedding Fun

I am part of the amazing etsybloggers team.  This group helps promote each other as artists and as creative people by blogging about their crafts and each others.  Part of this involves having different blog topics that we do bi-monthly.  I am participating in a the second topic for the month of September.  It's all about weddings.  So here it goes.  I was asked to include a picture from my wedding and also to include something from my shoppe that could be used for a wedding.  I really wish I knew how to make jewelry 9 years ago.  I would have worn something more interesting than pearls.  However, these are my Mom's pearls so they are special to me and I guess that's all that matters.

This gorgeous necklace is made with cream colored Swarovski Crystal Pearls and vintage crystals.  The crystals came from a necklace that was my great aunt's that I deconstructed.  I believe that they are around 75-80 years old.  I also added a sterling silver toggle heart clasp to this beauty and there is a bezel set cubic zirconia at the drop.  I love this necklace and it would have been something I could have created and worn myself on my special day.

Colors of Fall Artbeads-Style

I got another invitation from Artbeads to participate in their Blogging for Beads program.  I have been working with them for the past year or so.  As the summer comes to a close, they wanted me to be inspired by all the gorgeous colors of Fall and create keeping this in mind.

I went out on a limb with this task.  Normally, I check out what colors will be popular for the upcoming seasons and create with this in mind.  This time I used the Color Scheme Designer.  I decided I wanted to use a tetrad of colors that would complement copper.  So this is what I came up with:

I really fell in love with the Copper Heart Shaped Leaf Pendant  and I think it really highlights the 12 mm Malachite rounds and the 8 mm Olive Jade rounds nicely.  Then I added some carnelian roundelles and some darker red carnelian rounds with some 6 mm fuschia Swarovski rounds.  


I think I will go out on a limb and try some more bold color combinations in the future.  


Happy Fall!


Disclosure: I participate in Blogging for Beaders with Artbeads.com and have received the products free of charge from them. I am honestly reviewing the products and have not been paid for my endorsement as it pertains to the products received.

Yoga For A Cure: Part Two

"Yoga for the Cure 2," the second local fund-raiser to benefit a Pottstown participant in the three-day Breast Cancer Walk For The Cure, is being planned for October 1, 2010 (Friday) from 7-9 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Pottstown, 750 North Evans Street, Pottstown PA.


The event will be a relaxing evening of gentle yoga followed by tea, coffee, desserts, henna tattoos, chair massage, and giveaways.  The money to be raised will be part of a $2,000 goal for participants walking 20 miles daily for three consecutive days to combat breast cancer.


A similar yoga fund-raiser conducted during June raised $640.


A suggested donation for the event is $20.00, and advance reservations are requested.  Organizers are also looking for people who are willing to donate products, gift certificates, or services for the giveaway raffles.  For more information or to make a reservation, call Barbara at 484-525-5204.  If you plan to attend, here is one of the items being raffled off:

Handcrafted ceramic pendant (made by Gaea Designs) paired with ceramic and Bowenite rounds.  Sterling silver chain and clasp.  Last time, I provided a breast cancer awareness bracelet and earrings set.  I thought something yoga related would be a nice addition to this event.

Namaste'

Working With Copper

I have been experimenting with using copper lately.  Typically I use sterling silver or silver plated metal in my creations, but now I'm starting to use more copper.  The copper really warms up the pieces.  I am especially fond of using turquoise, carnelian, and copper together.  So very pretty, in my humble opinion!

How Do You Celebrate The End Of Summer?

Labor Day is just around the corner.  Traditionally, it marks the end of summer and the beginning of a new school year.  Around our house, we are trying to soak up the last bits of summer by going to the pool one last time; by having one last outdoor BBQ with friends; by hitting the beach for just one more jump in the cool ocean waves.  

We are also getting ready to start another year of school.  This is a big year for us.  My oldest son is starting second grade and my little baby (oh where did the time go???) is starting preschool this year.  It's only 2 mornings a week, but it seems like just yesterday that I was dropping off my older son, clinging to my leg, at his first day of big boy school.  We have gathered our backpacks, lunchboxes, pencils and erasers, and our first day of school outfits...not that boys this age care so much about that "just right" outfit.  I can't wait to capture the first days of school on film for prosperity.  

As far as creativity goes, I have been working on many new jewelry pieces for the Fall months.  I love using the reds, oranges, and greens.  To me, it symbolizes change.  All the deeper hues of the colors we use other times of the year.  I love the crisp scent of the air, wood burning in an outdoor fireplace, the colors of mums and pumpkins.  Everything is just so beautiful and I love to spend time outside this time of year.  I hope everyone enjoys the change in the weather and all the beautiful colors!

"A woodland in full color is awesome as a forest fire, in magnitude at least, but a single tree is like a dancing tongue of flame to warm the heart."  -Hal Borland

Looking Forward To Fall/Winter....

I know that it's only August, but now is the time that I am starting to think about the cooler weather months.  I love Fall especially.  The gold, rust, and copper colors are really beautiful and I love watching the leave change their colors, going to pick pumpkins, and decorate my house for Halloween and Thanksgiving.  I also start to think about what colors are going to be upcoming designer trends; the colors that YOU will start to see in the department stores, fashion, and runway magazines.  Consumers will want to start to look for jewelry and accessories that will coordinate with the new lines of clothing.  So in order to help you out, I will do all the dirty work for you.  I will keep up to date on what colors you will start to see and design jewelry accordingly.  For the Fall/Winter months a few colors start to stand out in my mind: Tandoori Masala, Calendula, California Buckwheat, Calypso, Indian Ruby, and Cast Bronze.

Here are a few pieces of jewelry that I created that incorporate a few of these colors:

This double-stranded necklace is created using goldstone ovals and turquoise (california buckwheat and calypso) & also amber heishi beads (tandori masala).  Just a little fact about amber....it's actually created from fossilized tree sap.  This necklace is highlighted nicely with copper clasp and focal bead.

This is another favorite creation of mine.  Crab fire agate ovals are paired with turquoise rounds (indian ruby and calypso).  There are also some fire polished black glass beads along with some silver plated spacers to add some interest.  The sterling silver round pendant is so much fun for the upcoming months.

Both of these great necklaces, along with some of my other creations are available for sale on my etsy shoppe.  Please don't hesitate to contact me about any of your special needs or if you would like me to create a custom, one-of-a-kind necklace for you or for a loved one.

Thanks for looking.

The Lucky Earrings Winner is.....

mkokopelli. Congrats!  I will be emailing you to get your information so I can mail out these
earrings to you :

Chakra Earring Giveaway

Do you find yourself running from one thing to the next? Do you need some balance in your life?  Well, enter this great giveaway and you could win these gorgeous Hill Tribe Silver Chakra Earrings created by Hammi Jammi Jewelry.  Earring hooks are sterling silver and the flower stamped charms are Hill Tribe Silver (which is an even higher quality of silver than sterling).  The beautiful charms are enhanced by Swarovski crystal bicones that represent the seven chakras:

Red- the Root Chakra- this is about the balance between materialistic monotony and the drive of courageous self-protection.

Orange- the Sexual Chakra- associated with emotions, instincts, states of desire, and imagination.

Yellow- the Solar Plexus- is the focus point of our power and will.

Green- the Heart Chakra- associated with love and understanding, compassion, empathy, and forgiveness.

Blue- the Throat Chakra- associated with creativity and the ability to communicate.

Indigo- the Third Eye Chakra- ability to perceive clearly. Intuition, insight and imagination.

Purple- the Crown Chakra- associated with divine wisdom, oneness with the universe, and enlightenment.


Wear these earrings to enhance your mood and re-align your body's energies to fight off illness.


So, I am trying to get 300 followers on my blog.  I am pretty close at 242.  Help me reach my goal.  Here is how you can enter this giveaway:


1) Sign up to follow the Hammi Jammi Jewelry blog.  Leave me a comment stating that you are following me and be sure to leave your email address so I can contact you if you win (1 entry)


2) If you are already a follower, send my blog link to all of your friends and leave me a comment that you did so.  Don't forget to leave your email address.  (2 entries)


3) Blog about this contest.  Be sure to leave your blog address so I can check it out. (1 entry)


Pretty easy, huh?


The contest is open to US and Canada residents.  Contest starts 8/1 at midnight and will end on 8/8 at 8 pm EST.  Winner will be chosen at random.


Thanks for spreading the word!

A Child's Paradise....

I have had the opportunity to share my talent with others and I am thrilled to share my experience with my readers.  Back in May, I was asked to submit a proposal for several jewelry workshops at Arrowhead Day Camp during the month of July.  I would be working with intermediate and senior campers to create jewelry.  I was nervous and excited at this work opportunity.  I have done a few children's birthday parties, so this couldn't be that different.  I was correct and I've had such a great time with these young ladies and being able to share my passion with them.

With the senior campers we created freshwater pearl and Swarovski Crystal ankle bracelets with a flip flop charm.

With the intermediate campers we worked on a green and pink fire-polished glass bloomin' stretchy bracelet.

Arrowhead Day Camp is located in West Chester, PA and is situated on over 50 acres of rolling countryside--and it's been there since 1956 and run by the same family.  I was totally blown away at all this camp has to offer--you name it, it's there...horseback riding, swimming, boating, a taboggon style waterslide, games, arts and crafts, computers, and much, much more.  They are even putting on a production of Annie this year.

They say that's it's where new experiences are a common daily occurrence; where friendships and memories are endeared; where kids can learn, grow and enjoy to the maximum their talents and abilities. And I truly believe that I would be hard-pressed to find a child who wouldn't have the time of their life at this place.

I am so glad that they let me into their Arrowhead family for a brief period of time and I thank the owners Ellen and Howie Gilbert for such a wonderful camp experience.  I had a blast and I think I will keep these memories close to my heart for a long time.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Lots Of New Goodies

I just updated my etsy shoppe and there are a bunch of new items.  I'm offering a special discount to  my blog readers.  15% off any item in my shoppe, just for my awesome readers.  Just mention at checkout that you saw this deal on my blog and I will adjust the price for you.

Happy Shopping, friends!

Happy Early Birthday, Kristina

One of my dearest friends' birthday is coming up.  We still exchange presents since we are important parts of each other's lives.  I met her in college our freshman year, we pledged the same sorority, and have similar life paths as far as work, marriage, and families go.  Needless to say, we have remained friends 17 years and I know we will be friends forever.

Back in May when she was here for a visit with her son, I was showing her some of the jewelry I have created.  She really loved my photo jewelry and wanted me to make something special for her Mom for her birthday/Mother's Day.  She decided on a photo bracelet with the grandkids pictures in it.  All she had to do was send me some digital photos and I did the rest.

As a present to her I said I would create a bracelet for her as well.  I wanted to share this with you.  I love the black and white photos.  I think it turned out really well and I know she will wear it proudly.  I love to have people, especially friends wear pieces I create.  There is so much satisfaction in making something pretty that someone will enjoy over and over again.

So, Kristina I wish you tons of happiness this upcoming year.  I hope you have lots of sunshine and stars; joy and peace; love and contentment!  You are an amazing friend that I will cherish forever!

Happy Birthday!

From a happy bride....

"Carrie from Hammi Jammi Jewelry did an exceptional job creating sets of jewelry for my five bridesmaids and my flower girl. I spent hours searching department stores for bridesmaid jewelry that perfectly matched my vision for my wedding, but I came up short every time. I connected with Carrie and she was absolutely wonderful! She made EXACTLY what I had in mind- a stunningly elegant necklace, bracelet and earrings set for each bridesmaid and a beautiful bracelet for my flower girl. The girls LOVED their jewelry and it looked fantastic with their dresses. Carrie maintained an open line of communication with me throughout the entire process and she created and shipped the pieces quickly. I would definitely work with her again and I would recommend Hammi Jammi Jewelry to anyone who is in search of that perfect piece of jewelry! "

-Denise

For a Good Cause

I recently attended an amazing, inspiring, and deeply moving event called Yoga Unites Living beyond Breast Cancer; a Yoga event in Philadelphia on the steps of the Art Museum.  One thousand yogis were there for one cause and the energy was palpable.  It was such and uplifting experience for me. 

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, other than skin cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, after lung cancer.
The chance of a woman having invasive breast cancer some time during her life is a little less 1 in 8. The chance of dying from breast cancer is about 1 in 35. Breast cancer death rates have been going down. This is probably the result of finding the cancer earlier and better treatment. Right now there are more than 2½ million breast cancer survivors in the United States (http://www.cancer.org).

A friend of mine was also moved by the experience we had on the Art Museum steps and she wanted to do something similar on a smaller scale.  A yogi in one of her classes is participating in the 3 Day Walk for the Cure and they decided to join forces to do some fund-raising for a good cause.

I wanted to invited any readers who are in the area to participate in an evening of Yoga accompanied by live harp music with Betsy Chapman followed by tea, coffee, pink desserts and fun giveaways. All proceeds benefit the 3 day walk for the cure. Suggested donation $20 Wear Pink!

When: Friday June 25th 7-9 pm
Where: 750 North Evans Street, Pottstown, PA 19464
RSVP: Barbara 484-524-5204

You can read more about this event at the High Street Yoga and Wellness Blog.

I will be participating in the giveaway by donating a bracelet and earring set made from Swarovski crystal pearls and some pink ribbon beads.  The earring wires and findings in the set are sterling silver.

The Bonds of Friendship and Motherhood

I just finished reading a book that touched me on so many levels that I was compelled to write about it.  This doesn't happen too often.  This book left me laughing and sobbing uncontrollably at the end.  It's a story about genuine friendship and coming of age, family and the mother-daughter relationship, and health.  It chronicles the journey of a friendship from the 70s until the present and incorporates music (how powerful music is and can bring back memories in an instant).  The book is Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah.

First of all, I have friends from different eras of my life.  The high school friends (Saadia, Jen, and Carrie).  The college friends (Kristina and Holly), the mommy friends (Barbara and Joy), the neighborhood friends (Cheryl and Robin) and then there are a few new friends who I anticipate I will remain friends with for a long time (Vanessa, Louise, Pam, Diana).  I have found something special in each of them: their genuine nature; their ability to be compassionate; their love and acceptance of me for who I am.  I can count on each of these girls for anything and their friendship  has lasted the test of time.  I am blessed to have these friendships.  While reading this book I realized that each of these ladies has come into my life when I thought I was alone in this world and brought things to my life I didn't even know I needed.  We all need special woman in our lives.  To quote the author, "  As I've gotten older, I've really begun to see how profoundly important we woman are to each other.  Men and careers and even children can come and go in our lives, but our friendships are forever. "  True friends are few and far between.  Thank you friends for being my valentines.

Another theme of the book is about the mother-daughter relationship.  The mother-daughter relationship is magical, complex, powerful, transformative.  There's nothing like motherhood that makes us reassess how we were as daughters.  Who we are in the present is colored by the differences in how our mothers raised us.  That is definitely seen in the main characters in this book.  One had a loving, slightly over protective mother and the other a drug addict who was never present for her child.  I think back during my childhood and think about all the things my mother did for me.  Yes, she was overprotective, but that was her loving me to the best of her ability.  We will all mess up our children in some small way, but at the end of the day, it's love that really matters.  She would play with me and never miss a birthday celebration.  I don't recall too many mother-daughter heart to heart conversations, but I think that was the generation...a lot was left unsaid.  I don't think I was a horrible or bad teenager either.  I did what I was told and only wanted to please.  I do recall one time when I was trying to assert my independence...it was prom and my Mom wanted to call the parents who were hosting the after prom party and I refused to give her their number.  I just wanted some trust, but now I understand wanting to be protective and keeping your child out of harm.  I have no idea if she ever found their phone number or called, but it felt good for me to refuse and stomp away.  Afterall, I was leaving for college in a few months.  I just want to thank my Mom for being a special woman in my life and for putting up with me.  You made me who I am as a wife and mother.  You are amazing!

The last theme in the book I wanted to discuss is health-related.  I have my Master's degree in Public Health, so this is an important one for me.  If I can help one woman look out for warning signs, I have made a difference.  One of the characters in this book gets a rare, aggressive form of breast cancer called Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC).  The character in the book was diligent about mammograms, breast self exams, and annual gynocological visits.  She even went to the doctor for treatment of a bug bite on her breast and was given antibiotics.  Unfortunately, what everyone thought was a bug bite was IBC.    Symptoms of IBC may include redness, swelling, and warmth in the breast, often without a distinct lump in the breast. The redness and warmth are caused by cancer cells blocking the lymph vessels in the skin. The skin of the breast may also appear pink, reddish purple, or bruised. The skin may also have ridges or appear pitted, like the skin of an orange.  These symptoms usually develop quickly—over a period of weeks or months.  These symptoms can be typical of other things, like a bug bite so diagnosis can be missed.  If you want more information about IBC please visit the National Cancer Institute.

Now, that I finished talking about the touching nature of this book.  You are probably asking, "why the hell are you writing about all this on a jewelry blog?"  Well, the only answer I can give is that this book touched my HEART and I wanted to share it all with you.  It's a must read for the summer.

Custom Thank You For Teachers

I spoke of this idea in my last post.  I created a really beautiful, sterling silver hand-stamped necklace for my son's teacher.  The round pendant reads "Teach - Love - Inspire" and has a heart and some Swarovski Crystal pearls dangling near the pendant.  The words on the pendant can be anything you would like.  The back can even be stamped with the teacher's name.

It's a really nice keepsake to remind the teacher in your life that they are special and that they do an important job!

Contact me if you are interested in creating a custom necklace for your teacher, too!

Remember To Thank The Teachers

“A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops." Henry Adams 


How do YOU thank the teachers who have taught your kids throughout the long school year?


I only have one child who is school age.  I know when he is home from school the dynamics in our household change.  There is more noise, more fighting, more everything.  Being a teacher is a job I surely wouldn't want to have.  I know that as a mother, I AM a teacher, but the thought of having 20+ kids in one room really sends me over the edge of insanity.  Being a teacher is an extremely hard job.  Teachers mold our children and prepare them for the future as productive adults.  

So, let me ask you again..."How do you thank your child's teacher?"  Do you give them soap, a candle, a "World's Greatest Teacher" mug.  My mom was a teacher and I know for a fact that she neither smelled nor needed any more teacher mugs.  I think teachers deserve more than these items.  They deserve something that they can cherish and remember why they do what they do day in and day out.



Here are some suggestions of items that I can create to send the right message.  Teachers are appreciated for their hard work!

 This lovely beaded pen can be done in a variety of colors and price points.  This is really useful and special for the teacher in your lives.

This bracelet is created using glass rounds with a focal bead made with ceramic.  This is something a teacher can wear again and again.

What about a simple pair of earrings?  These brass earring are elegant and very pretty to wear everyday.


I am also working on some hand stamped sterling silver necklaces that have phrases such as "Teach~Dream~Inspire" on them.  


Contact me today and we can discuss your options.  I can create something special within your budget.

Scenes of Summer

Wow, I can't believe Summertime is quickly approaching.  For me, this means having BOTH children at home and not in school, occupying our days with pools and bike riding; it means warm weather and blue skies with the occasional quick thunderstorm; it means vacations and ice cream and just old fashioned family fun.

One of the traditions in our family is to spend a week or two at the beach each summer.  It's tranquil and a change of pace for us.  There's not much to do besides play in the sand, swim in the ocean and pool, go for long bike rides, and get ice cream treats after dinner time.

That's why when Artbeads asked me to focus on creating something with a Summer theme, I was excited with anticipation for all the fun I could have with their vast selection of pendants and glass beads and how they could relate to what I think summer means.  Ultimately, I chose this amazing stoneware pendant and paired it with some mint alabaster and blue iris fire polished glass and some
topaz porphyr fire polished glass beads.  There are also some turquoise roundelles and sterling silver findings in this piece.  All the colors in these beads and pendant remind me of the summers we spend at the beach and brings a smile to my face.  I hope this creation brings joy to you too.

If you live in the area, this piece is currently on consignment at Kaleidoscope Angels.

Disclosure: I participate in Blogging for Beaders with Artbeads.com and have received the products free of charge from them. I am honestly reviewing the products and have not been paid for my endorsement as it pertains to the products received.

It's my BIRTHDAY--SALE today!

In honor of my birthday...my 35th if anyone is wondering....I am having a sale in my shoppe.

Everything is 15% off, TODAY ONLY!  Email (convo) me and I will adjust the price before you pay!

 

Etsybead Team--Mystery Bead Swap--Part One

Hello readers.  I wanted to share something fun my wonderful Etsybead team is doing.  The etsybead team mystery bead swap is a way to spark our creativity and have some team fun along the way.  The way it works is: Participants were randomly paired up with team members and the partners have to send a selection of beads to each other.  These beads and findings are no longer wanted or needed and the partners create new jewelry out of the supplies.

I was paired up with Dg Designs based out of Central, NJ.  I was especially excited that I got her since she makes handcrafted lampwork glass beads and was secretly hoping she would send me a few of these beads.  Boy, I wasn't disappointed.  This is what she sent me to work with:

And this is what I created with the supplied pieces.  I used a few pieces I had around here too:

These creations are available for sale in my shoppe.  You can also go to etsy and search for "Etsybead team mystery swap" to find other artist creations.

I have another partner I was paired with so be on the lookout for the second round of the mystery swap!

Something Unique for the Mother, Grandmother, or Wife

Mother's Day is just around the corner.  For all you husbands out there, the date is May 9th and it's never to soon to pick up something unique to tell your lady how important she is to you.  And for all you woman out there, you might want to give your mom or grandmother something special.  So either contact me today or drop a hint for your beau to contact me.  This photo jewelry is so elegant and special, I know you won't want to miss out on it!!!

FYI, Melia of Priceless Moment Photography took this photo of her children.  She does amazing keepsake portraits.  So check out her work too.  That's another great present for your loved ones to cherish forever.  And better yet, you can get a photo necklace from her worked into the package.

Communion and Motherhood

I have been super busy working on custom orders these past few weeks.  I thought I would share a few of those pieces with you.  I hope it sparks your creativity and helps you to figure out customizations of your own.

This first piece is a bracelet a client is giving to her niece as a Communion present.  This is actually one of three she is having me create.  The other two bracelets will use Rosaline Swarovski Crystal pearls.

Light green Swarovski Crystal pearls are paired with sterling silver daisy spacers and one larger round on each side.  Sterling silver alphabet blocks are used for the initials.  Cream Swarovski Crystal pearls are near the lobster claw clasp.  A sterling silver extender is used so the girl can wear the bracelet for years to come.  Oh, and how can I forget the sterling silver cross to commemorate the special event.

The next item I created was for a thoughtful husband to give to his wife in the delivery room after the birth of their first child.  The hubbie really wanted to incorporate the peas in a pod to the necklace.

Graduated sterling silver rounds complement the hand stamped heart and the pewter peas in a pod charm.  The front of the charm says "Mom" and the back has my client's last name.  Truly a special keepsake for the new mother to cherish for years to come.

The last piece I wanted to share is a Mother's Day Present.  It's a Copper bookmark and I think this is perfect for the avid reader.  My client's mother LOVES pink so this is what I came up with.

Rose quartz, pink Swarovski Crystals, Rhodonite rounds and some copper make this bookmark magical.

I just wanted to thank you for taking a look at my work and sharing in my creative process.