EsThings... Everything Sassy & Handmade with Love!

Unique and Beautiful BNR for All TODAY 6PM11PM EST by EsThings#4d40b252f0bc6d91c7fb9275

2011-01-26T18:47:00.000-05:00

Unique and Beautiful BNR for All TODAY 6PM11PM EST by EsThings#4d40b252f0bc6d91c7fb9275

This is a great group of shops! Stop by, click, comment and buy!!

Black and Silver Anyone

2010-09-14T12:17:00.000-04:00

I have found some amazing shops on etsy over my year + of shopping and selling. I have a few things that always remain a constant favorite to me and one of those is the combination of Black and Silver. I thought since I like the combination that others might too. I took a decent amount of time shopping through many different types of etsy shops to find this treasury collection and think that I have found some artists that are above and beyond.
Below is a sneak preview and the link to the treasury... take a minute to peek and show these artists some love!!

By Beadsoul

By Bijoullery

By Circularaccesories

By EclecticDiva

Give up for Handmade and Vintage!!

~<~>~<~>~<~>Black and Silver Anyone<~>~<~>~<~>~

Wow Time is Flying!!

2010-08-23T23:48:00.000-04:00

My son just got his first CAR!!

Now how old do I feel????

Sun Burned Zebra

2010-07-21T21:32:00.000-04:00

I have created my first Treasury on Etsy in over a year. I have found so many great shops that fit what I was looking for. Red, White and Black.

Beautiful

Zebras

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4c478954ea5f8eef421bb842/sunburned-zebraclassic#4c479a5bea5f8eefe09dbb42

Featuring....

2010-07-19T12:17:00.001-04:00

BRACELETS!!

This week in my Etsy shop I am featuring Bracelets.

I am offering 1/2 price shipping for all orders that have a bracelet.
Be Sure to Mention "1/2 Price Blog Sale"

Here are just a few to choose from:

Zebra Amythest

Blue Marble

Teen Fuschia Amythest

I Am Back!!

2010-07-10T16:04:00.000-04:00

All:
It has been a very long time since I have been on the blog or any of my sites. I had been ill, had surgery was finally feeling better and then was in a car accident. All is GOOD now! I have started to make some new jewelry and will be uploading soon.
I wanted to let all my online friends know I was back and looking forward to reconnecting!
MORE TO COME!!

Prom

2010-04-24T21:22:00.000-04:00

Wow.. my son went to his Junior Prom. Where did the time go? Before I know it he will be a Senior and gradutating.. I am not ready.
.. he is a handsome one!!

Sneak Attack Tonight

2010-01-04T15:03:00.000-05:00

Tonight is the first Monday Sneak Attack of 2010... I am sure it will be a great one. What is a Sneak Attack you ask??? Well you can get all of the information about it at http://www.handmademovement.com/ but here are the basics:

Fellow Etsians attack an unsuspecting shop that has few or no sales
During the attack we buy items from that shop to help support the new artist/shop
These shops are talked about all day (with out giving away the shops) on the thread that is attached to the title of this post and here http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6393406&page=1
We have a ton of fun supporting other artists and hand made items

Come and join the fun by stopping into the thread listed. You can come by and support with out having to buy during the attack.

The Sneak Attacks and team are a great place to support the arts.

PS. There are two shops being attacked tonight.

Christmas Past

2009-12-26T23:57:00.000-05:00

Christmas is over and yet I still feel like there is so much to do. We had a great holiday here. All the kids got presents they wanted and things they needed. I had family come to visit and we had a great time together. The thing is I spent 6 hours cleaning for the holiday and company and now have at least 6 hours to clean the house back up. It is worth it.... just never ending.
See some of our pictures below and enjoy. I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and has a GREAT New Year:

Christmas tree waiting for Santa

Santa Came

My photo printer

Loves the NY Giants

New iTouch

1st Camera (digital)

Black Friday through Cyber Monday Sale

2009-11-27T12:06:00.000-05:00

Well it is Black Friday. I did the Midnight shopping thing and still have some to do. I am shopping on line as well.

EsThings is having a great sale that I wanted to share with my blog readers and anyone you want to share it with. I would also like people to comment on any sales they may be having or have run into as I need ideas for so many people for Christmas and find that others ideas always get me going!

I am participating in a Team Sale that has a thread listing TONS of great talent. The Busy Moms of Etsy Team is sponsoring this sale and here it the link to the thread. http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6360578

The sale in EsThings starts at 10% and goes up to 30% based on what your dollar amount spent is. The first 5 sales will also receive free shipping. Below are some examples of items in the shop.

Enjoy and Happy Shopping!

What Are YOU Thankful For? It Can win YOU a PRIZE!!

2009-11-20T14:38:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving is less than a week away. I always tend to get "mushy" around the holidays and so I thought I would carry that "mush" to my blog.
I am going to share with you what I am thankful for and then ask that you share what you are thankful for in a comment below.

I have a special item set aside for the person who is picked as a winner based on your comments... How do I pick the winner you ask.... well I am going to have to read each and every one and then narrow it down to 10 based on ... just kidding.. I will do a random number generation based on the number of comments.
If I had to choose based on the people who follow me and I think will comment.. I would not be able to choose.

OK.. I am thankful for:

My BEAUTIFUL Children
My Husband
Mine and My Families Health
My Good Friends
My Job
My Dogs
But most of all my life as it has been given to me!

I look forward to reading about what you are thankful for!!

Wow Where has the Time Gone?

2009-11-19T22:12:00.000-05:00

I have not been a good blogger lately... so much going on all the time.
Some Quick updates:

EsThings... Have some new items to add in the next day or so AND adding vintage!!! Some great pieces.

Kids... my oldest sons football team played in their first play off game in the history of the school. They lost but man was it a GREAT Season!! Go Raiders!

My daughter and youngest son started basketball.. they are excited and enjoyed the first practice.

Work is the same as always.. busy.

Looking forward to Thanksgiving with my family and some time to add to EsThings.

Christmas is Coming

2009-11-05T17:11:00.000-05:00

For some reason the "HOLIDAY" bug has hit me. I love Christmas and Thanksgiving and Black Friday and New Years.. in fact I look forward to those 4 days more than any others.

I have started my Christmas shopping which I am very excited about considering I have 3 children to buy for along with the rest of the family.

To spread my HOLIDAY cheer I have started featuring Christmas Items and/or Gifts down the right side of my blog.

Please take a minute to look at the great items that these great artists have HAND made!

Leave a comment about your favorite if you would like.

I plan to change these several times between now and Christmas!!

Happy Early Holidays!!

When are Your Kids to Old to Trick of Treat?

2009-11-02T22:28:00.000-05:00

Fake Blue Man Group Getting Ready to Trick or Treat

Ready to "Clown Around"

Jack O Lanterns

EsThings first Craft Show

2009-10-26T22:47:00.000-04:00

My First Craft Fair as EsThings!

Enjoy

One table featuring Jewelry by EsThings

2nd Table Featuring Jewelry and Ornaments along with some Tie Dye. Note Carols Pottery holding my cards on the table.

One of my holders with some of my new items.

Another holder with my new dangle Green and Glass Earrings and Necklace (note the wind blowing the dress.. so cold that day)

Es Things Sign from 1st Craft Show

2009-10-26T22:39:00.000-04:00

This is the sign based on my Avitar created by Ros!

OK.. One more Blonde Joke for a Great Friday

2009-10-16T11:47:00.000-04:00

This one was passed to me from Ros (http://www.paintedmemoriesbyros.etsy.com/).. this is a good one!

A blonde and her husband are lying in bed

Listening to the next door neighbor's dog.
It has been in the backyard barking for hours and hours.
The blonde jumps up out of bed and says, "I've had enough of this".
She goes downstairs.
The blonde finally comes back up to bed And her husband says "The dog is still barking,
What have you been doing?"
The blonde says,
"I put the dog in our backyard, let's see how THEY like it!

Another Blonde Joke

2009-10-13T07:54:00.000-04:00

I am Blonde so I can share these~!!!

Blonde Car Accident

One day, while a blonde was out driving her car, she ran into a truck.

The truck's driver made her pull over into a parking lot and get out of the car.

He took a piece of chalk and drew a circle on the pavement. He told her to stand in the middle and not leave the circle.

Furious, he went over to her car and slashed the tires.

The blonde started laughing.

This made the man angrier so he smashed her windshield.

This time the blonde laughed even harder.

Livid, the man broke all her windows and keyed her car.

The blonde is now laughing hysterically, so the truck driver asks her what's so funny.

The blonde giggles and replies, "When you weren't looking, I stepped out of the circle three times!"

2009-10-12T10:43:00.000-04:00

13 Years and Counting...

Today I celebrate my 13 Year Wedding Anniversary with my husband. Last night we went to a wonderful dinner and had a lot of fun.

It is a shame we do not make more time to do things like that other than on an anniversary or birthday. It seems life gets away from us. With kids and jobs and family and just life we tend to put ourselves and our marriage on the back burner. Well, not anymore for me. Last night made me realize some things need to change; we just need to make time. Happy Anniversary to all those out there that share our date.

And the WINNER IS.....

2009-10-11T17:15:00.000-04:00

Thanks to everyone that entered my first Blog Give Away.... The winner was chosen by name... All comments were printed put in a literal hat and my 10 year old daughter picked the winner and it is....

***** IRCrafty *****

Congratulations to you!!

I hope to have another giveaway soon and involve other shops items as well.

Again to those that entered my THANKS!!

Give Away Shops

2009-10-02T13:40:00.002-04:00

There is a typo (figure that) on my shop listings so I am posting again.

My First Give Away
OK.. you are just in time for the first ever EsThings give away.

I have watched many blog sites do give aways, promotions etc. I have seen several that have been very successful so I thought why not. It is a great way to get people to see several different Etsy Shops.

The way this one works:

~It is designed to help promote shops on etsy
~I will list 3 shops
~You will need to leave a comment naming 1 of your favorite items from two of the listed shops and why you like them

That's it!

The prize???? A $20 gift Certificate to EsThings.Etsy.Com

Etsy Shops listed for this give away:

www.justfortheshellofit.etsy.com

www.theartofjoy.etsy.com

www.shadesofvictoria.etsy.com

My First Give Away

2009-10-02T13:16:00.002-04:00

OK.. you are just in time for the first ever EsThings give away.
I have watched many blog sites do give aways, promotions etc. I have seen several that have been very successful so I thought why not. It is a great way to get people to see several different Etsy Shops.

The way this one works:

~It is designed to help promote shops on etsy
~I will list 3 shops
~You will need to leave a comment naming 1 of your favorite items from two of the listed shops and why you like them

That's it!

The prize???? A $20 gift Certificate to EsThings.Etsy.Com

The Shops:

www.justfortheshellofit.etsy.com

www.theartofjoy.etsy.com

www.shadesofvictoria.com

Be sure to comment and let me know your favs!

The drawing will be random and will take place on 10/9/09.

Good Luck and Keep Shopping.

A Few of My Favorite Shops Feature

2009-09-24T21:56:00.002-04:00

To your right and down a little you will see a small blurb about two very special teams on Etsy.
I wanted to thank those that have been a support to me by showing off some of my favorite items from their shops.
Over the next week I will rotate in and out the different shops that have been an inspiration to me and on these two very special teams!

Go Sneak Team!!
Go Busy Moms of Etsy!!

Many warm thanks from ME!

Sneak-A-Versary

2009-09-23T11:48:00.002-04:00

For all of those sellers and buyers on Etsy I want to make sure you know about the Sneak Attack and the team behind it.
A Sneak Attack was designed to support new Etsy Shops or Shops that had very few sales. (see www.handmademovement.com for more specific details) Every week (couple of times a week) a sneak team member hosts a Sneak Attack. They choose at least 1 but up to 3 new/low sales shops to "Attack". The time leading up to the attack is tons of fun for those that choose to be involved (yes I said choose because anyone can participate in a Sneak Attack). We have a thread dedicated to that Attack for that day and everyone talks and jokes through out the day. At the designated time it is all business and the Cart Wars ensue. The shops are announced on www.handmademovement.com and then everyone goes shopping.
Imagine the surprise on the face of that shop owner when they go from 0 sales to 12 sales in one very short day or even hour (and yes this happens all the time for these Attacked shops).

Tomorrow is the 1 year anniversary of this very special team and concept. I am very lucky to be a part of this wonderful group and wanted to share this with everyone.

Make sure to stop by the Anniversary Thread and take part in the special Sneak Attack.
http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6291891&page=1

Also check out the Happy Sneakaversary Song LaBeq.Etsy.Com made:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aR-z3Ly9Klg

Travelling for Work

2009-09-15T23:47:00.002-04:00

Well I am travelling for work. I am in an older hotel with a very strong mildew smell. No amount of perfume seems to take care of the smell.
All the other hotels are booked.
So what do you do when you find yourself in a bad hotel? There are no other hotels available and I have the last room available.
Let me know what to do.....

Football Season is Here

2009-09-14T22:43:00.006-04:00

OK, so I have 3 children and 2 are boys. One is 16 and is the QB for our High School Varsity team the other is 9 and he is the DB/Corner for the local rec team.
So of course that means I am way into football. I have attached several pictures of the boys in action.
You ask what does this have to do with my EsThings Etsy store... well I am offering custom football jewelry. I have put an example of QB charms and school colors (of course these are mine). I have several position charms available (receiver, RB, Lineman etc.). I also have examples of cheer leading earrings too.

Take a look, enjoy the pictures and visit the shop to see the options.

EsThings is a Featured Busy Mom!

2009-09-02T00:40:00.002-04:00

GraceHester Designs has featured my shop on her blog as a featured Busy Mom of Etsy.
This is a great group of moms that support each other not only in our art but in every day life!
Please take a look not only at this feature but at Graces website and the Busy Moms site!

http://gracehester.typepad.com/weblog/2009/09/featured-busy-mom-for-today-es-things.html

First Varsity Football Game!!

2009-08-29T18:31:00.002-04:00

My son played his first Varsity Football game as the starting QB... watch the link.. the First TD is my son!!!
We won the game 37-0. It was an amazing ride. Congratulations to the NFHS Football team.
Great game!!!

Venturing Into New Territory

2009-08-26T21:41:00.003-04:00

EsThings has ventured out beyond jewelry. We have started listing our decorated gift bags and tie dyed baby onsies and shirts.

I have decorated gift bags for years but had never thought to offer it out to others. I had a friend that saw one of my bags and asked where I bought it... so it began.

The Tie-Dye baby onsies started from a gift I was making for a friend of mines baby. They loved it and asked where I bought it.. and so it began.

I have decided to add some of these items to my Etsy shop to see how it goes. Be sure to stop by and take a look!

Blonde Jokes... HMM

2009-08-21T10:12:00.003-04:00

Ok, I can do this because I am a blonde.

A Blonde calls her boyfriend and say, "please come over here and help me. I have this killer jigsaw puzzle and I can't figure out how to get it started." Her boyfriend asks, "What is it supposed to be when it's finished?" The blonde says, "according to the box it's a tiger." Her boyfriend decides to go over and help with the puzzle. She lets him and and shows him where she has the puzzle spread all over the table. He studies the pieces for a moment, then looks at the box, then turns to her and says, "First of all, no matter what we do, we are not going to be able to assemble these pieces into anything resembling a tiger." He takes her hand and says "Second, I want you to relax. Lets have a cup of coffee and then," he sighed, "Let's put all the Frosted Flakes back in the box."

That was GRRRREAT!

Christmas Approaches

2009-08-20T07:38:00.002-04:00

Can you believe it is the end of August? That puts Christmas only 4 months away. Now I know you are saying "that is a long way still" and you are partially right. Four months is 120 days... but think of all we do for this holiday. Shop, clean, cook, decorate, family, friends, trips, in-laws etc, etc, etc. Remember back to last year. If you are anything like me you were still shopping for some thing the week of Christmas. Well not this year, not me. How about you?

I have started early and have made some Christmas ornaments that I have listed in my Etsy Shop. http://EsThings.Etsy.Com I will continue to list them over the next 30 days.

Below you will see a sample of a few of these listings. I will also do custom orders with the colors of your choice.

Santa is coming ladies and gentlemen and it is not that far away!

My Shiny Christmas Tree

2009-08-20T07:37:00.002-04:00

Ruby Red Christmas

2009-08-20T07:35:00.002-04:00

Blue Christmas for You

2009-08-20T07:33:00.005-04:00

First Day of School

2009-08-12T00:12:00.003-04:00

I have successfully started all 3 of my children on their next level of education. Yesterday was the first day of school.
I have one in 11th grade, one in 5th grade and the last in 4th grade. Everything went well in the morning... even my oldest was excited to start school however it was to see "what hot girls" were in his classes. (If you have a teenage boy you know that statement is true.)
Here are a few pictures to mark this day in their lives.

New Listings and Avatar!

2009-08-08T01:17:00.005-04:00

Hello all the readers that I love! Wanted to share my newest listings on www.EsThings.Etsy.Com.

Also notice my new avatar. This is compliments of www.paintedmemoriesbyros.etsy.com - a very talented woman. Make sure to check out her shop!

More write ups to come....

Two New Listings

2009-08-05T14:10:00.003-04:00

My listings have been a little slow going the last two weeks. Football is in full swing for both of my sons and school starts next week.
I have managed to complete 2 items and have several in the works.

The first is a metal stamped and acrylic painted pendant fastened on a cloth wrapped black adjustable choker. It features a sky blue love bird with silver and black accents.

The second is a stretch beaded bracelet with jasper beads. The many swirls of cream and black through these neutral brown beads makes this a very interesting piece.

Enjoy!

16th Birthday Party

2009-08-02T23:10:00.005-04:00

Well, I am still alive.. I have survived my sons 16th Birthday Party. We had about 50 people here at the house.

I think things went well for everyone. The kids seemed to have fun. A little teenage drama was involved, but for the most part; pretty good.
I have a few pictures here.

I will give a recommendation to anyone considering having a party for teenagers at your house... have it some where else. Then there is not so much worrying through out.

I must say the kids were all well behaved and there were no incidents. Everyone danced and had fun so... I guess all is well that ends well.

NFHS 40-40 Yard Dashes!!

2009-07-31T20:41:00.005-04:00

Well last night I attended the 40-40 yard dashes for North Forsyth High School Football. This is the 3rd year they have done it and I will tell you that it is still just as amazing as the first time they did it.

The team has football practice 4 xs a week all summer. These boys are more committed than you could imagine. Towards the end of the summer they start working on 40 yard dashes... they add 3 every day until the night of the 40-40 yard dashes.

Understand that these are not jogging 40 yard dashes, these are all out sprints - 40 in a row!

It was amazing to see over 100 boys work hard at EVERY SINGLE SPRINT they did. NO ONE lagged, NO ONE slouched.. the ALL hit it HARD.

Of course I am proud of my own son for doing so well but I am proud to be part of this team and the many accomplishments they keep hitting!

New Listing

2009-07-30T12:26:00.003-04:00

Hello Everyone.. sorry my blog is a little behind. I had the flu. It was terrible.
But I am about 90% back to normal and have completed a necklace that I really do like. It is made with Coffee/Black Ceramic Square Beads and Black Glass Faceted Beads. Each bead is individually connected to create this piece and allow for great movement. It is finished off with a silver toggle clasp for a great look from behind as well.
Take a look!

Reunion and Out with Friends

2009-07-24T00:16:00.002-04:00

OK, I am a grown woman, but sometimes you need to let loose!
I went home for my class reunion. I saw some people I could not wait to see, missed some I wanted to see and saw some that I could not even remember!

Not only did I get to have a great time with class mates, I got to spend time with my 2 Best Friends and act like we were still under well lets say 35!

Brett Michaels Rode in the Opening Ride Too!

2009-07-24T00:13:00.000-04:00

Still sounds the same as in the 80s!

The Opening Ride Lead by Congressional Metal Winner!

2009-07-24T00:10:00.002-04:00

Over 4700 Bikes!

Roar on the Shore, Erie, PA

2009-07-24T00:05:00.003-04:00

I went home for my class reunion but was fortunate that the Roar on the Shore was the same time I was home. Above is a picture of my with my Dads small bike. I normally ride a HD Sportster but it was back in ATL and I was in Erie.

This is a weekend long event that gave all proceeds to the Veterens of the War in Iraq and other Veteren needs.

So Much to Catch Up On!

2009-07-24T00:04:00.003-04:00

Been out sick a few days. Got a terrible Flu that has kept me down.
I am going to write about my class reunion and the Roar on the Shore in Erie, PA separately.
Just wanted to let everyone know I was still alive!

Home Sweet Home

2009-07-16T10:51:00.002-04:00

I am home in PA visiting my Dad. I have my class reunion this weekend and am looking forward to seeing many people I have not in more years than I am willing to say.
How many of you have attended a class reunion? What is the proper edict? Do you hug and act nice to those that you did not get a long with in High School?

I Broke Down with a Little Help from My Friends!

2009-07-14T15:37:00.001-04:00

I did it... I made a twitter page. I have no idea what I am doing, but I did it anyway. I was told this is the thing to do and it will help get EsThings "out there"!
Here is the link.. take a look and tell me what to do next.

2009-07-13T14:45:00.001-04:00

A Little Something Different

2009-07-13T07:57:00.005-04:00

Good Morning!
I wanted to share a few items that I recently listed in my etsy shop. I did some things a little different trying some ideas that had been bouncing around in my head.
There are so many jewelry shops on line. You have Etsy of course, then Artfire and Ebay and so many more. So how do you stand out? That is what I am working on figuring out.
I sat down to determine what makes me different and why should people buy from me. I think some of the items that you must have to be successful are:

1. Customer Service
2. A Great Product
3. Have unique and standard pieces
4. Marketing
5. Enticing Shop

I want you opinion. What makes a shop stand out? What items in my shop make you stay and shop?

We all need to improve so lets help each other.

My First Sneak Attack Purchase

2009-07-09T07:45:00.003-04:00

Sneak Attack... you ask what it is; well first and foremost it is a great group of Etsians I have only begun to get to know. They take their time and money to help new shops or shops with few sales get started on Etsy. Why do they do it???? Because they are just good people, there is no catch! Check out this link
to get all the information about the Sneak Attack Team.

So yesterday I was on the Sneak Attack daily thread and the Sneak Attack of the Day thread talking and laughing with this team. It was really enjoyable. Let me give you some ideas of what we did:

**Laughed**
**Supported**
**Laughed**
**Snickered**
**Learn**
**Questioned**
**Laughed**
**Sold**
**Purchased**
**Laughed**

At 4 pm the sneak attacked started on two new shops. Both shops had 0 sales at the time. Both shops had no idea!! It was amazing to see how this team stepped up, made purchases, advertised the shops on their own blogs, twitter, FB and every other electronic program. I purchased an item from one of the shops and can not wait to get it! The shops sold 14 and 4 items yesterday!! These shops went from 0to 14/4 sales!!! WOW! How is that for support!

So what did I do? I asked to join the team!! I am proud to say I am now an OFFICIAL Member of the Etsy Sneak Attack Team!!

Wire Cutter/Flash Cutter Safety... Hmm Practice What I Preach!

2009-07-07T15:41:00.002-04:00

OK for those of you that make jewelry this will hit home hard. We have all had to cut wire and when we do a few things happen:

1. The piece you cut off becomes a projectile that will of course land where you can not find it.. until you are in bare feet.

2. The spool or coil you are cutting from unravels-COMPLETELY! Or you get poked by the wire you are trying to get off of the coil.

3. You cut yourself because you are not paying attention

So to help myself and others here are a few safety tips when using your Wire Cutters/Flash Cutters:

Safety Tip #1:
Always hold both ends of the wire as you cut it. When the cut is made, the loose end of the wire tends to fly. It can be a hazard to your eyes and it can be a hazard to your back as you crawl around on the floor trying to find the wire and pick it up or to your bare feet when you find it unexpectedly. Wearing safety glasses when jewelry making is often recommended, but it is safer still to make sure the loose end of the wire can not become a missile hazard.

Safety Tip #2:
A good habit to have, is when you are cutting wire from a coil or spool to cut it so that the flat side of the cut remains on the spool or coil of wire. This way the shorter wire segment that you work with will always have one sharp end and one flat end. In addition, the wire on the spool with have a flat end so it will be less likely to hurt anyone who picks up that spool later. Also, hold the spool firmly to prevent unraveling issues. It never goes back the way it was the first time around.

Safety Tip #3: Flush cutters can be sharp and may not be suitable for young children or adults who are not paying attention. Jewelry making is probably not appropriate for young children or adults who have focus issues.

Hopefully these tips will help you and prevent you from injury. I post these as I have done all 3!

Quick Vacation

2009-07-07T07:38:00.004-04:00

I wanted to give a quick excerpt of my 2 day vacation with my kids. First you have to understand that I have 3 kids that range in age from 16-9. (2 boys, 1 girl). Trying to find things to do that all 3 will like is not nearly as easy as I would like it to be.
So, I decided to take them to the mountains of Helen, GA for the 4th of July weekend. It ended up being great!.
We stayed at a condo/cabin on the Chattahoochee River. The condo/cabin was great. Right in town so that once I parked the car, we did not have to get back in it until we left. We had a great meal at Margaritas and went tubing down the river all day Saturday! Talk about fun! All 3 of the kids loved it as did I.
We watched the fireworks which incidentally were right next door and were very good for a small mountain town!
I would recommend a weekend vacation to anyone with kids in Helen, GA!

1st Charm Bracelet Listed

2009-07-01T22:25:00.003-04:00

I completed my first charm bracelet. It is sterling silver with 5 charms that have swarovski crystals. It has flip flops, cell phone, heart, margarita glass and a horse shoe. It has been accented with pale pink and pale amethyst beads. I am pleased with how it came out and would like your opinion!

Next Theme: SUMMER PICNIC!!

2009-07-01T12:08:00.002-04:00

The next weeks theme for my feature section is "SUMMER PICNIC". Do you have anything in your shop that can be worn or used for a SUMMER PICNIC?

If so and you would like to be part of the feature please leave a comment or send me a convo at my Etsy website EsThings.

This theme should be light and fun!!

I look forward to lots of great items!!

Remember...Keep Shopping!

Monday Blah!!

2009-06-29T15:35:00.002-04:00

Well I am taking a minute from my crazy "day job" to catch up.
The weekend went very fast... to fast...

I was able to get several things done but not nearly what I needed to get done. I have started my first charm bracelet and am excited at how it is coming. I will end up being a more expensive piece due to all the great things and quality of items but I definitely think it will be worth it. Hope to finish it tonight!

I want to make mention again of the BNR that I am involved with right now... the obvious reason would be for promotion but that is not the only reason.. I have had the pleasure over the last couple of days to get to know (at least a little) some very talented and amazing women. They are busy mothers who find time to help promote each other while dealing with teething children, cooking, cleaning, some with jobs outside the home etc. so I bring up this BNR because not only are there these talented shops but also a shop that donates ALL proceeds to charity!!.
You need to check out this thread!!!
http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6199429&page=24

Thanks and remember keep shopping!!

Happy Sunday

2009-06-28T11:25:00.003-04:00

Good Morning.

Well, 1/2 the weekend is over and I feel like I have only accomplished 1/8th of what I wanted to do this weekend.

I did get some yard work done yesterday and went to the store to get some odds and ends needed for the house.

I also made a sale on the BNR thread on ETSY so I am sooooooooo excited about that! I went to the supply shop and purchased some new items for my jewelry (some great things will come out of them). I made some special earrings to send with the necklace that was purchased as a surprise. The necklace purchased was a simple piece but very pretty so I hope my buyer loves it and the earrings. I have put in a little picture of my work area.. the kitchen table. With 3 kids all the rooms in the house are used up and bursting at the seams; so this is my area.

What else... I had a TEXT conversation with my son. They did very good at the football camp at UCF and he was very happy with his performance so that was good. He is at church camp now in Panama City... Lucky Him! He said so far it was AMAZING!

I plan to do some more yard work today, make/finish some jewelry to post on Etsy and go to the grocery store!!

I just need to figure out how to squeeze 12 more hours out of Sunday!!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend... and tell me what you have been doing!!

BNR update!!

2009-06-27T22:42:00.004-04:00

Hello everyone!
Wanted to let you know that we have had 8 sales in less than 24 hours on our 1st BNR.
If you take a look and purchase from any of the shops on the list you are added to the list. You are also added to 1 of our 2 treasury lists that are currently running.
It has been successful thus far.
Come take a look, chat, shop, hang out and purchase something good for you. If you do not find something for you, pass the information on to someone you think might like an item in one of these great shops!

Remember.... Keep Shopping!

BNR--- Had 2 Sales Last Night

2009-06-27T08:26:00.002-04:00

All:
I am admin on my 1st BNR!!

Come take a look there is a lot of talent on this thing! Drop by, Shop, Chat, Hang Out and bump the thread... look forward to seeing everyone... Come by get on the list and make some sales!!

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6199429&page=8

Remember Keep Shopping!!

Erica

Laugh Out Load Funny Movie- The Proposal

2009-06-27T00:09:00.003-04:00

I had promised my daughter I would take her to see a "girlie" movie since both her brothers were not home. We went to see The Proposal.. .HILARIOUS!!!
I have not laughed so much at a romantic comedy like that in a long time.
I would suggest it to moms, daughters and girlfriends. Sandra Bullock looks GREAT!! Good for her!

This is a great girls night out movie!!!

Let me know when you see it what you think!!

All the Stress in MY Life Comes from People Not Playing the Game of Life by My Rules!

2009-06-25T15:19:00.003-04:00

Ok, ever have one of those days when everything seems to be difficult, backwards, against you and just plain lousy?? Well today is that day for me.

I woke up late (which I never do), I am missing my oldest son who is away at camp, my dog got a hold of my youngest sons favorite shoes (you can imagine that shriek fest), I had to redo an entire project in 1/2 the time due to someone else, there was an oil spill and I drove threw it in my WHITE car and it is NOT pay day.
What else could go wrong???

OK now that I have vented, I am fine and feel better!

Anyone else have days like these???

Next Theme: RED HOT

2009-06-23T13:47:00.002-04:00

OK all you Etsy Artists... I need to feature some shops/items that have something that is RED HOT.

If you are interested leave a comment with a way to contact you or convo me at http://EsThings.Etsy.Com

This feature will start running this coming weekend and run for a week.

Lets see RED HOT!!

New Listings

2009-06-22T19:17:00.002-04:00

Ok, I have tried to get all the items I have complete and ready for listing on my Website... I have accomplished 2 more.
Trying to find time to update all these different places to promote these items is almost a full time job.. issue with that... I have a a full time job.
But, I love making the jewelry and want others to have the opportunity to enjoy it also.
How do the rest of you find time between the required things in life and the things you like to do??

Until next time.. keep shopping!!

http://EsThings.Etsy.Com

Today, Fathers Day & Everyday!

2009-06-21T22:57:00.002-04:00

Hello All:

First Happy Fathers Day to all the Dads! Was a good day for the Dad here! He got an outside recline type chair. Really likes it! Kids made him home made cards and we made breakfast. So a good day was had by all.

I made a few new pieces and have a few that I had not gotten photographed... did it today. I have listed two of the items tonight and will list the rest tomorrow. Take a look at the "Sole" collection... very fun!

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=26804844

My oldest is getting ready to leave on Wednesday to go to a college football camp (he will be a junior in High School and plays QB). It is in another state so I am a little nervous. After his football camp he goes right to a camp from the church also in another state. He will be gone a week... boohoo!

I am not ready for all of this leaving the nest stuff!!!

I need some help on how to deal with this upcoming college stuff... I think I will be a wreck! I still have 2 years but feel like I lose a little more each day with him. He is growing up so fast!!

Til tomorrow... Keep Shopping

http://EsThings.Etsy.Com

Movies

2009-06-21T00:32:00.002-04:00

Good Evening/Morning All:
I wanted to talk about a movie I took the kids to go see tonight-UP.
First I want to say the 3D was great.... but WOW was the plot intense especially for a kids animated Disney movie.
I do not want to ruin the movie for those that have not seen it but I will tell you I cried... at a Kids Disney Movie!!!
I think kids need to go to movies and laugh and have fun (no that there are not funny parts.. there are and not that it was not a good movie.. it was) but this movie dealt with grown up issues.
Anyone that has seen it; what do you think??

Remember to shop!

http://EsThings.Etsy.Com

New Section of Blog

2009-06-20T11:02:00.003-04:00

Good morning everyone....

I have started a new section of Es Things...Blog it is for promotion of Etsy Shops of all things handmade and vintage.

Each week will be a different theme and feature shops that have items that fall in with that theme.

The first theme is DAD. I figured we always see great stuff for women that is hand made or vintage.

I already have 2 great shops with some great items featured and hope ot add more. Be sure to keep checking back for the new Featured Theme Shops each week...

Keep Shopping!!

http://EsThings.Etsy.Com

Kids, Kids, Kids

2009-06-19T07:29:00.002-04:00

Ok, I was a teenager once but sometimes I must forget. I have one child that is a teenager now and two that are well on their way.
I am just not sure how they think. They have a logic that defies nature and truly see nothing wrong with this logic.
Example:
Teenager is out with friends to a movie. Supposed to be home around 9PM. The movie is over and they decide they want to get something to eat. He text me to let me know. Now note he text; gosh forbid we CALL a person anymore. Anyway, in the text he says "Going to Eat will be late". Of Course I am outside with the little ones and do have the phone but do not hear the little Text alert.
Now here is the teenage logic... I sent a text and regardless if you got it or responded to it I did my job and informed you I was going to be late. AND I saved you from having to make something for me to eat. AND I was not driving and they wanted to stop and eat.

OK, now that you have the "logic"... thoughts??

Mine was.. you need to seek and obtain permission before changing plans. Am I crazy??

2009-06-19T00:20:00.001-04:00

Wheeeww!

2009-06-18T22:58:00.003-04:00

Wow, I just got my work clothes off... It is 11PM at night and I left the house at 6:30AM.

We just finished at a Basketball tournament for my oldest son.. lots of fun.

Tomorrow more of the same... get up, go to work, come home, clean, take kids places etc. and start over again.

BUT I would never change a thing... Love my kids and watching them do things they enjoy!

Good Morning....

2009-06-18T07:38:00.001-04:00

Ok, Day 2.
I was up way to late last night getting my new listings put on my website at Etsy but hopefully it will be worth it.
Was running like a crazy woman this a.m. to get my oldest to football training and then work... I am settled in at work and ready to get started.
Hope everyone has a great day and I will see you tonight.

Remember to Shop!!

http://EsThings.Etsy.Com

And So it Begins!....

2009-06-17T23:26:00.000-04:00

Welcome to my first blog... I am so excited but can see I have a ton of work to do.

I want to start by talking about a team of women that I have a ton of respect for... Busy Moms of Etsy. This is a group of women who are Moms, Wives, Employees, Artists and so many other things. I just started my own shop on Etsy.Com and this team of women have been so supportive. I just sold my first piece today and I can not tell you what a great feeling it was. I had so many of these women send me emails to congratulate me.... what a great group of women. Check out their blog page at http://www.busymomsteam.blogspot.com/

Until tomorrow.. have a great night and do not forget to shop!!!

http://EsThings.Etsy.Com