My Life and Crafts

My first ever poem written by me (and yes, it's sad)

2009-10-25T22:03:00.000-07:00

The end of our 10 years is here
To sign the papers and walk away
But in my heart of hearts I feel
Like this is a mistake and I should stay

I know I've done some horrible things
And don't deserve your love in any way
But I know that when I sign my name
It'll be the beginning of real pain

I'm sorry now for what I've done
To treat a prince like common scum
I kept my feelings all inside
And now I can't hide them, hard as I try

So because you were so good to me
I'll let you go, I'll set you free
I wish you all the best in life
And hope one day I'll forgive myself

Super awesome giveaway

2009-09-05T13:39:00.000-07:00

An incredible Christian artist is giving away one of her awesome pieces of work-and you get to choose which one you like better. (I've already made my decision:) So check out this page: http://www.econobusters.com/?p=2442 to enter. Good luck to me, I mean to all!!!

Blog giveaway

2009-07-24T07:39:00.000-07:00

Check out this awesome giveaway from a beautiful website: http://women-prenuergalore.blogspot.com/

2009-06-19T21:14:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Georgia Etsy Street Team summer sale!

Visit these Georgia Etsy Street artists offering fantastic sales between

Sunday, June 21st to Sunday, June 28th!

Visit these participating Etsy shops to find your Peachy Deal:

Amber's Aromatherapy

http://ambersaromatherapy.etsy.com/
Bath products, specifically soaps and lip balm, custom blended teas, and jewelry.Free shipping and free custom blended tea

Amelia's Soap Co.

http://amelias.etsy.com/

Handmade soap products
15% off all individual soaps

Berd & Bee
http://berdandbee.etsy.com/
20% off handmade housewares

Bijouterie by Nipurna's Creation
http://www.nipurnascreation.etsy.com/
Unique and modern Handmade jewelry, one of a kind and excellent prices
All item 15% off.

Birds and Cherries
http://birdsandcherries.etsy.com/
Photography with a somewhat quirky point of view!
Free surprise bonus print with all orders during the sale

Crafters Crossing
http://crafterscrossing.etsy.com/
Handmade Swarovski crystal and wire jewelry.
10% off merchandise orders totaling up to $99.99.
15% off merchandise orders totaling $100 or over

Deb's Pane In The Glass

http://sunnya.etsy.com/

Stained Glass items from Lamps, Suncatchers to Window Panels & Business Card Holders, Note pad Holders.

Free Shipping in the USA & discount internationally: $5.00 and $2.50 for a second item.

Deuce Goods
http://panash.etsy.com/
One of a kind handmade accessories.
All items 20% off.

Echo d'Amour
http://www.echodamour.etsy.com/
Custom jewelry designs - monograms and more!
20% off all orders during the sale

FavorsRUs

http://favorsrus.etsy.com/

Handmade bath products

15 percent off store wide

Fine Art by Rachel M Cotton

http://rmcotton.etsy.com/

Free Shipping on Original Artwork

Surprise orginal ACEO with each order over $20

Fluffy Flowers

http://fluffyflowers.etsy.com/

cute creatures & pretty pouches

HALF off on select Zipper Pouches

Growin Like A Weed
http://growinlikeaweed.etsy.com/
Specializing in hand- painted children's growth charts, step stools and room accessories.
All items 15% off.

Inky Illustrations by Tamara Garvey

http://tamaragarvey.etsy.com/

Lovely, whimsical pen-and-ink illustrations made into prints and stationary.

All Prints 15% off, please use coupon code Peach15 and either wait for yourdiscounted invoice, or pay and I will refund your 15%.

JoyAnna.etsy.com
http://joyanna.etsy.com/
Handmade one of a kind pillows, purses, diaper/travel bags, scrapbook covers, tissue box covers
15% off everything in shop

K. Berlin Metalsmith

http://kberlin.etsy.com/

Handcrafted Artisan Jewelry - Precious Metals and gems

Free Shipping on All items

Lydia's Spa Collections

http://lydiasspacollections.etsy.com/

Natural Bath and Body Products With Fabulous Fragrances

10% off everything in the shop with free shipping

Maria Luna and Kartu
http://marialuna.etsy.com/
http://kartu.etsy.com/
handcrafted artisan jewelries and fine art nature photography

15% off excluding sale items

Miss Molly Cottage
http://missmollycottage.etsy.com/
All items 20% off

Nanty's Naturals
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=96348
Natural, Handcrafted Soaps
15% off all soaps and a free mini sample soap with any purchase

no flying in the house

http://noflyinginthehouse.etsy.com/

handmade original artwork and vintage items

free shipping on all items

Painted Paws Folk Art
http://artisticpaws23.etsy.com/
Dog Folk Art
prints 15% off and free shipping of prints

Princess Ciarra Raye's Designs

http://princessciarrapaye.etsy.com/

For the Little Girl Inside You

Free Shipping and a Free Gift to with every Purchase.

Buy 1 get one free gift, Buy 2 get 2 free gifts and so on. You won't be disappointed with the gifts. Valued at $10 or more

Sheboygen

http://sheboygen.etsy.com/

Vintage and handcrafted jewelry and accessories

1/2 off all vintage

Smelly Rhino Studio
http://smellyrhino.etsy.com/
Original paintings, prints and cards
10% off storewide (excl. PIF and Charity items). Free shipping on all orders over $10! Surprise Summer treat with every purchase!

SweetPea Boutique
http://happygrandma402905.etsy.com/
Colorful hairbows and clips for girls of all ages
Buy one hairbow or clip set and get one of equal or lesser value for half price!

Whisper Wing Studio

http://whisperwingstudio.etsy.com/

Handcrafted Jewelry
All items in sale 15% off

Worthy Soy Candles & Crochet

http://worthysoycandles.etsy.com/

Soy Candles & Unique Crochet!

Buy One Get One 50% Off on Specially Marked Items! Over 30 to choose from!!!

These shops are participating in the sale, but you can always find other items from our team members anytime by searching for "GaEtsyTeam". Happy Shopping!

Giveaway from a jewelry artist

2009-05-26T08:49:00.000-07:00

Check out her blog to win!

http://thebeadedlily.blogspot.com/2009/05/how-we-celebrate-500.html

One of the prizes is pictured here.

She is also having a great sale:
Untill June 1st I'm going to have a little sale! 20% off anything and everything in either my Etsy or Artfire shops-- *BUT* you have to add a note with the word *blog* in it. On every purchase from here to midnight on the 31st I'll refund 20% of the item cost as long as the note is there. This is just for my blog buddies. No note, no refund!

My good deed for the day

2009-02-19T15:55:00.000-08:00

Since Chris and I are sick as dogs (how sick do dogs get?) I took Kyle to my Mom's and proceeded to Wal-Mart for a small, sick-shopping spree. Before I had even turned my car off, I had a strange man standing at my door. I saw what looked like key-chains in his hands, so I figured he wasn't after my purse. I opened the door and got out and read his little note:"Pardon me, I am disabled and hearing impaired person am selling key chain to support my family, it will be helpful to my family, to make a decent living, make a $3.00 donation. Thank you for your kindness May God bless you..."

Now I know what you're thinking, total scam. But, what the hell, I decided if he's scamming then he'll have to answer for it in the afterlife and I will at best have done something good for a stranger, or at worse, wasted my money. So I bought the thing. It is a multi-colored and multi-layered foot. Why a foot? Why not an ear? Wouldn't that make more sense? hehe... Guess that's wrong of me to think.

So having purchased my silly looking key chain, I proceeded to Wal-Mart to buy Golden Seal - an herb my Mom swears keeps strep from attaching to your throat if you gargle with it (which tastes horrible. btw), soft tissues, cough drops, chicken noodle soup, two boxes of mac and cheese, and of course a book. Who can stand being sick without a new book? Well, Chris didn't agree with me since the book was almost $20, but he just shook his head like he always does when I do something dumb. (like hit a mailbox with my side mirror or hit a curb, damaging the front of the car) But come to think of it, he did kind of yell about those - it was our cars, after all. So no crafting today, but a surprise will come tomorrow! Stay posted!

Georgia Etsy Team Meeting

2009-02-18T18:32:00.001-08:00

On Sunday, I met two members of this wonderful yahoo group. We met at Manuel's Tavern in Atlanta, which I had never been to. It was neat, but what was neater was how much knowledge you can get from listening to other crafters. I got advise on my products, packaging and how to get my name out there. I gave the other women, Rebecca and Diane, some of my products to try, and they loved them! Made me feel so good. I've been experimenting with my products for a long time, and feel I have found the best quality and most wonderful body products. Here's a link to their Etsy pages-another wonderful thing I have found:

http://www.dkovach.etsy.com-Diane's page

http://www.smellyrhino.etsy.com-Rebecca's page

I am just amazed at the talent out there. (I'm kind of jealous actually:)

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

2008-12-22T10:33:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of our cat and 4 year old safe tree. I decorated a mini tree and put it on our mantle. Most of the decorations have come from my swap-bot friends including meggart and craftybeach girl. She sent the hanging ball on the left-it's so beautiful!

Poem written by Lorene McPherson

2008-11-27T21:14:00.000-08:00

The days are long, the nights are even longer.
I'm fettered and shackled by the burden og
illness, discontent and loneliness.

I try to free myself to face a new tomorrow
But instead the straps are drawn tight
And the burden is made heavy

I'm weary, I'm tired, I hope for a place
To rest and then new trials surround me.
I search for a song and find only discord.

I long for sunshine and laughter.
I find grey clouds of doubt and a mocking
Bitter wind to chill the aching body as ne'er before.

I life my head in an effort to call for help but feel God is too far away.
The walls of my abode seem to imprison me and I wonder will there be a tomorrow!

Yes, tomorrow will come and it will bring Victory!
For I know too well my Redeemer liveth.
For yes, I've been surrounded by doubt before
But have always found God was always near.
He never leaves me alone.
He only lets me find the true patch through the maze.

The Clouds of doubt begin to life and a blue sky of promise
Shines through. Faith is truly renewed and another battle
Is won over the oppressor, which gives me the courage to go on.

Poem written by my talented brother

2008-11-05T12:53:00.000-08:00

New Beginnings

history has been changed today
its a day of new beginnings
a black president has been elected
regardless of my opinion

the election was made to be about race
not voting on the facts
for many voted on the color of skin
trying to make an impact

or should i have said trying to make history
the ignorance is incredible
who cares if he was raised by radical Muslims
all this seemed to be invisible

or what about the lack of patriotism
for the country he would lead
its as if he doesn't even care
its manifested in every deed

Jeremy

p.s. hope the minorities are happy, they finally got their black president whether its best for the country or not.

New tea to try

2008-11-04T13:23:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows how much I love tea and I just stumbled onto this site today, so check it out:
http://www.vitabase.com

Here is their specific page for teas:

http://www.vitabase.com/supplements/gourmet-tea/tea.aspx

Last pictures of my long, beautiful red hair

2008-08-29T16:21:00.000-07:00

I am considering cutting my hair and selling it, so here's some before pictures:

Many topics

2008-08-03T18:15:00.000-07:00

Justin's now wife is pregnant, as I'm sure was expected by the hasty wedding. They are having a boy and kicking around the name Aiden-a favorite of mine.
I have been practicing singing for a few weeks now and can sing:
Tonight I Wanna Cry-Keith Urban
Hold on to Jesus-Michelle Tumes
Harlan-Kathy Mattea and Brad Paisley both recorded it
I Wonder-Kellie Pickler
Me and God-Josh Turner
Lead me Hone-Greg West
Why They Call it Fallin'-Lee Ann Womack
Send Down an Angel-Alison Moorer
I Miss My Friend-Darryl Worley
Stay Gone-Jimmy Wayne
I love you this much-Jimmy Wayne
When Love Finds You-Vince Gill
My Heart Will Never Know-Clay Walker
By His Wounds-Various Artists

Brother got married

2008-06-02T22:19:00.000-07:00

Today my second to youngest brother, Justin got married to his girlfriend of 3 1/2 years Rachel. Their wedding was small and the theme was lavender and green, just like mine. I will post some pics when I get them. He was so nervous. But I guess I would be too at 19. I hope and pray that they make it.

Stuff for sale-new page

2008-06-02T22:15:00.000-07:00

Check out my Etsy page for a few of the many items I have for sale. I have been working on it for a while and think it looks pretty good. Here's the link:

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5126848

Custom orders are as always welcome as is comments!

Stuff for sale

2008-05-11T22:38:00.000-07:00

Check out my photobucket page for items for sale:

http://s153.photobucket.com/albums/s202/acid41/For%20Sale-by%20Amberly/

Trade-snacks for soaps

2008-01-24T22:09:00.000-08:00

I sent soaps, pianoheart sends snacks. These are called sakura arare and nori crunch. My husband loves them.

Super Quick January Tea Swap

2008-01-24T22:06:00.000-08:00

Received 11 tea bags and a bookmark from LisseasLuxuries.

Raise your Rate Swap

2008-01-24T22:03:00.001-08:00

Received this cool package from Dixie Witch for this swap. She sent two different fabric, one hello kitty christmas and one raggedy & andy, some buttons, bag of beads, ribbon pieces and a whole roll of ribbon, and 2 tea bags.

Swap received-Loose tea of the month club-January

2008-01-24T22:00:00.000-08:00

I received some tea from a swapper in Finland. She also sent a black and white postcard with the ingredients translated from Finnish to English so I would know what I am drinking. How sweet! She also sent me some extra tea bags.

New soap recipe-Amber's Aromatherapy

2008-01-08T19:08:00.000-08:00

I have been experienting with different soap receipes and oils, and here is I think the best soap I've ever made. Everyone who has tried it absolutely loves it. It's Lavender Castile Soap. Yep, 100% pure olive oil with lavender essential oil. (organic, high grade)

Just Stuff #5 Swap-piano heart

2007-12-27T22:36:00.000-08:00

This swapper from Hawaii sent me a copy of an old song, some really cute buttons and brads, 2 tea bags, and an envelope of cancelled stamps and an envelope of japanese pictures. All of which was listed on my profile as my likes. She did a great job matching this stuff up to me.

Tea for Two-myrrmaid

2007-12-27T22:34:00.000-08:00

I received 6 tea bags, an envelope of stevia and a vitamin c packet. Very handy since I work in a pharmacy.

Knifty Knit Tea Swap-Aimee Lee

2007-12-27T22:31:00.000-08:00

I received this awesome package for the knifty knit tea swap on swap-bot. I received some really nice yarn, tea in a canister (yummy btw), Vermont pumpkin spice bread mix, lemon scented soap, 2 hand knitted items, yummy lip gloss and some really cute tea cup charms. I was very impressed with this package.

Christmas Tea swap-zigg13pra-Kelli

2007-12-27T22:27:00.000-08:00

She sent me 6 tea bags, an orange drink mix, cute Christmas card, and holiday stickers. Yum

A Quick Christmas Yum Swap-LiveTilWeLaugh

2007-12-27T22:24:00.000-08:00

This swapper sent me over 60 different candies all individually wrapped. It must have taken her forever. She sent my favorites too. Very nice.

Angeled swap-Invisible-Carrie

2007-12-27T22:16:00.000-08:00

This awesome person angeled several swaps that I have been flaked on. She sent me 3 different kinds of yarn, several different kinds of tea bags, a handmade Irish kissing ball, scrapbooking supplies, and some stationary. She did it just to do it, no reason or rating involved.

Swap-Tea Party for Two

2007-12-15T00:31:00.000-08:00

I received this package from user rockcandy. She sent various tea bags and a neat little ginger instant mix.

Swap-Colors, colors, colors

2007-12-15T00:23:00.000-08:00

Here is an awesome package I received from user melissahead. She sent me 2 notebooks (one is a moleskin notebook), sandalwood candles, red and white stiped socks, green tea gum, handmade card and handmade gift tags (when she said she had sent several handmade items, it took me awhile to figure out which ones they were-her items look awesome!). She also sent tea bags, cinnamon mints and red rough ribbon. I love everything-she did a great job picking stuff out.

Update on Kyle

2007-12-05T23:35:00.000-08:00

Well, Kyle's infection seems to be about gone. Thank God, it is hard to deal with a sick kid, work and the holidays. Being worried about him makes me physically ill. I went to the doctor today for my knee that's been giving me issues. Apparently my knee cap does not line up, so it pops alot. I was kneeling on the kitchen floor last week playing with Kyle, when I guess I leaned the wrong way because my knee popped really loud, then started hurting. Yesterday I was at the point where I could hardly get up and down the stairs. I received a cortisone shot at the doctor's office, and a few mild pain pills. Now I can go to work tomorrow without being in agony. Friday morning I have an appointment to see a physical therapist to learn some excercises to strengthen my knee to hopefully prevent this from happening again.
I am sending out our Christmas cards over the weekend-look for a super cute picture of Kyle in his Santa outfit!

Package received

2007-11-10T23:39:00.000-08:00

This swap is called Boys Christmas Stocking Filler and this nice lady, lob and her son sent an Elmo backpack filled with gifts. I can't wait to open them! Kyle loves Elmmo!

My Birthday

2007-11-08T22:02:00.000-08:00

I had a pretty good one this year actually. Mom gave me a new book called Knitted Together, finding God's plan for your life by Debbie Macomber and she also got me a pedicure and a terrific dinner at Gabe's Downtown. Gabe's is this neat upscale restaurant in Villa Rica. We had crab cakes, chicken Victoria and creme bruelle for dessert. Then the next day Chris took me to Provino's because you get to eat free on your birthday. I also got the new JD Robb book Creation in Death, a book tote bag, some yummy cookies from Sweet Teresa's Dessert Shop, and a full body massage last night. I slept like a baby. My Mom watched Kyle last night, so I slept really good. I guess turning 29 isn't so bad:)
My best friend Amee turned 30 on Oct 23, but we haven't celebrated yet. I called her yesterday, but haven't heard back yet. She is a RN and works her butt off. My brother Jeremy gave me a lavender (my favorite color) card with $25 in it! I bought books with it.

Kyle is 3!

2007-11-08T21:57:00.000-08:00

Kyle turned 3 recently and I just can't believe it! It seems like yesterday that he was born. Here are a few pictures that I took recently of him and Chris. He loves to play outside and throw rocks into bushes at my mom's.

All About Tea

2007-11-08T21:42:00.001-08:00

This package was sent by Jessie and the swap was All About Tea. The requirements were to send:
1 quote about tea, 5 facts about tea, 1 tea themed item, and 1 craft item made with tea. She send5 tea bags, 2 tea magnets, one of them handmade (and very cool), 2 Mary Engelbreit cards and the quote and facts. She also sent a necklace with tea infused clay balls. Very unique!

Just Stuff from girlunderglass

2007-11-05T23:35:00.000-08:00

She sent me 2 cute notecards, a sturdy notebooks that I can keep in my purse, and some cool ribbons and pens.

Package received

2007-11-05T23:03:00.000-08:00

From Sarah Wilcox for a swap called Fun Stuff Swap. She send some really nice items.

Full scent list for bath products

2007-10-02T21:07:00.000-07:00

Here is the full scent list for my bath products:
Fragrance Oils:

Sun Ripened Strawberry
Coconut Lime Verbena-Blend of Lime, Coconut, Verbena Compared to: Bath & Body Works-
Tranquil Sleep-Blend of Lavender and Vanilla Compared to: Bath & Body Works-
Creamy Coconut-Blend of Coconut, Cream, Pineapple Compared to: Bath & Body Works
Oatmeal, Milk & Honey-Blend of Oatmeal, Milk, Honey and Almond
White Tea & Ginger- Blend of White Tea, Ginger Compared to: Bath & Body Works
Orchard-This is a refreshing blend of Yellow Pear, Green Apple and Green Pear, heightened by notes of twigs and leaves. This fragrance will make you want to go out hiking and take a long picnic break in the nearest fruit orchard.
Fresh Brewed Coffee-Smells like Fresh Coffee
Vanilla-soft vanilla smell
Georgia Peach-Smells like a Sweet, Syrupy Georgia Peach
Relaxing-A relaxing blend of French Lavender and Fir Pine, enhanced with Egyptian Jasmine and sweetened with pure Vanilla, softened with delicate Musk.
Green Apple-Smells like a Green Apple
Sea Fresh-This crisp scent awakens the body and recharges the spirit. Capture the cool sensation of a refreshing sea breeze. Bring a clean and fresh feeling to your home. If you like Irish Springs, you will absolutely fall in love with this FO!!
Apple Orchard-Blend of Apple Blossoms and Red Apple
Rice Flower & Shea Butter-Blend of Lily, Hyacinth, and Sandalwood Compared to: Bath & Body Works
Baby Powder-Smells like Baby Powder
Grass Stain-This scent is fresh, clean and vibrant. It's a single note fragrance smelling of ... fresh cut grass! Remember your childhood, frolicking in the grass, rolling down grassy hills and playing on the swing set at the park? This is the fragrance to bring it all back. It's crisp, sweet and green and you'll love it!
Chamomile Bergamot-This wonderful fragrance, based on a Garden Botanical blend ("Very Well"), is a blend, primarily made up of its namesakes, Chamomile and Bergamot. Not content to be a two-note blend, this fragrance also contains notes of Tangerine, Pettigrain, Sage, Geranium and Moss. These wonderful notes (all fantastic on their own, but serendipitous in this mix) make for an herbal-ly, balancing scent.
Rose Petals-This one is a definite winner!!! It is not a "little old lady perfume" type of rose at all, but it reminds one more of Rose Milk hand lotion. It is very strong. The romantic scent of rose petals....it’s like walking through a rose garden
Lavender-Smells like lavender-
Sandalwood-woodsy, down to earth scent
Peppermint-Smells like Fresh Peppermint
Sweet grass-This fragrance oil is a delightful treat for the nose. A bright, green scent
Tropical Vacation-A mix of mango, coconut and pineapple rolled into one sweet scent.
Lettuce-Crisp and clean and everything green
Rise & Shine-This scent is all about happiness and light. It contains a lot of fresh orange notes, with additional notes of Apple, Grapefruit, Peach and Strawberry with just a touch of Loganberry.
Bonsai-This fragrance is a Floral Fresh with Citrus and Pine accords, having some Tropical Fruits and Wood tones on background. This is an excellent Zen like fragrance
Energy-A stimulating blend of Citrus, including Grapefruit, Lemon and Lime, with hints of fresh Cucumber and Jasmine, and a touch of Pineapple, Blackberry and Champagne.
Red Currant & Thyme-Blend of Red Currant, Thyme Compared to: Bath & Body Works
Cranberry-Juicy, tart and delicious
Fresh Baked Bread-Yummy, hot out of the oven bread
Beeswax & Honey- Smells *exactly* like a beeswax candle. BOTTOM LINE: Sure, it may sound a little weird, but trust me -- a bar of soap that smells like a big chunk of raw beeswax is, as it turns out, really, really neat.
Christmas Spice- Blend of Yuletide spice, woods, and sweet notes. At the top, ripe strawberry melds with touches of green apple and pineapple. Next, holiday spices of clove, cinnamon, pimento, and cardamom blend with a hint of rose, leading to a long-lasting scent of sweet vanilla and balsam fir.
Irish Fields- Strong, fresh and clean
Lavender & Herbs- Heavy on the natural essential oils, including lavender, lavandin, cedarwood, eucalyptus, geranium, copaiba balsam, chamomile, fir needle, rosemary, marjoram, and lemon. Floral notes of jasmine, rose, and tuberose help to round out and soften the blend.
Pumpkin Spice-Delectable notes of cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, cardamom, and pimento leaf lend warmth to a green, balsamic heart. The dry down brings together rich vanilla and sweet caramel for a mouthwatering finale.
Heather-A scent that smells like a meadow of wildflowers -- green and fresh.
Country Christmas- Simple and unpretentious -- like Christmas in a country farmhouse. Top notes of cinnamon, peach, strawberry, blood orange, and plum lead to a warm, woodsy heart of juniper berries and raspberry, with a clean, forestry finish of spruce, pine, vanilla bean, and musk.
Dark Rich Chocolate-so yummy just like a warm gooey brownie

Essential Oils
Peppermint~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Lemon
German Chamomile~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Rosemary
Cinnamon~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Cinnamon
Clary Sage~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Seet Orange
Lemongrass~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Rosewater
Ylang-ylang~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*Frankincense
Marjoram~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Grapefruit
Geranium~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Roman Chamomile
Spearmint~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*Eucalyptus
Lavender~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Cedarwood
Green Tea~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*Bergamot
Tea Tree~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Sage
Lemongrass~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Lime

Long time no see

2007-09-19T18:06:00.000-07:00

Logging in tonight to post a blog, I realized how long it's been since I posted. Guess that's what a full time job, 3 year old, and sickness does to your schedule. Today my husband did a wonderful thing, he bought me something I actually like (love actually) without being prompted. Yes, I know, impossible right? Nope! Chris went to Lenox Mall today with his boss for an anniversary lunch and he went to the Godiva store and bought me a very expensive chocolate covered strawberry. I have been on a chocolate covered strawberry kick lately. He then messaged me to ask me if there was anything I wanted. As you see from the second picture, he then went to the Teavana store and bought me 4 oz of their very delicious Jasmine Dragon Phoenix Green Tea Pearls. This is one of my favorite teas of all time, and their Jasmine tea is the best. It is hand rolled and very expensive. So I feel like a queen now. Well, off to eat and drink my snacks!

Tea Swap #12

2007-08-24T18:14:00.000-07:00

Here are the other two packages I received for this swap. They were from Sally & Surefitz. I do love tea!!!

Just Stuff Swap

2007-08-24T18:12:00.000-07:00

This package was sent to my by Fin. There were four caramels when I opened the package, and by the time I took the picture (10 minutes), there was only one left. They were SO good!

Just for Fun Swap

2007-08-24T18:08:00.000-07:00

This package was sent to me by MICHELLELORIE. This was probably the nicest and most thought out package I have ever received. Everything I received I would have bought for myself. The hair bands are perfect for my thick hair because they don't slip. The aromatherapy reference guide is so cool-I love it and have used it several times already. The mints are good-and sugar free, which is good because I just found out that I need to cut out all my sugar. I have already drank the Irish Breakfast tea, and the stationary is just too cute to use. This is my new all time favorite package.

Handmade Earrings Swap

2007-08-24T18:04:00.000-07:00

These earrings were sent to me by huiyuehin.(how do people come up with their user names?) I think these look very retro! She did a great job on them.

Candy/Lolly Swap

2007-08-24T18:02:00.000-07:00

This package was sent to me by Sally. She sent all sorts of candies, I haven't had chicklets in years!

New swaps received-1

2007-08-19T21:37:00.000-07:00

This swap was called Summery Quick Pick Me Up, and my sending partner was the coordinator Origami Grace. She sent me 5 tea bags, bath salts in a foreign language (very neat), buttons, a note pad, Mary Engelbreit gift tags, and 3 foreign candies. They were yummy!:)

New swaps received-2

2007-08-19T21:30:00.000-07:00

This swap was named Pamper Yourself and I received a package from riqgm who lives in Argentina. This was probably the best and most expensive package I have ever received from a swap-bot member. She sent a blue/marine scented basket that had a loofah, bath confetti, bath gel and a bath fizzie, then 2 boxes of tea, 4 neat candles, a tube of cooling gel for the feet, and a tube of clay face mask, a blinking rubber duckie, 5 hair bows, a blue beaded bracelet, and a envelope of unique buttons. All these items were directly or indirectly listed on my profile as likes. Unbelievable that someone would go all out like this. And she spent a fortune on shipping also!

Interesting Tea Bag Swap-Sally and Bittercat

2007-08-19T21:28:00.000-07:00

Here are the tea bags I received in the Interesting Tea Bag Swap from Sally. She hails from merry old England, and I have really enjoyed the Fruit Bliss tea bags she sent, I have rated most of them already in my tea ratings blog. You can see the tea names in the picture, so I won't list them all here.
Another package I received for this swap is from bittercat. She sent me some nice tes.

New swaps received-4

2007-08-19T21:26:00.000-07:00

Here is the other package I received from the Handmade Happiness swap from Star of Song. She sent a beaded necklace and pelican magnet.

New swaps received-5

2007-08-19T21:23:00.000-07:00

Here are the items I received from a swap entitled Handmade Happiness. The guidelines here were to send 2 handmade items to 2 partners. This is the package I received from ninjaprincess. She sent a very neat vintage looking needle book and a blue jean pouch.

New swaps received-6

2007-08-19T21:17:00.000-07:00

This swap was called Flava Flav, and that means that you send a bunch of items based on your partners favorites. I listed lavender, peppermint, citrus and apple as my favorites and I received a lavender & apple wax tart, lemonade and lemon-lime Kool-aid, lemon towelettes, peppermint candies, apple squeeze candy, and lime candy slices. My sending partner-boxsquat did a wonderful job picking out stuff.

Got job, forgot to post

2007-08-04T20:08:00.000-07:00

I got the job at Walgreen's-I found out Thursday. I started my training today. I watched cheesy videos and took quizzes. Apparently you have to learn a bunch of stuff to deal drugs! Just kidding, dispense drugs! I went by McDonald's today and quit. I took my uniform in, handed it to a manager and said I quit! It was a very nice feeling. I think I smiled for an hour afterwards. Being a Pharmacy Technician I think will be a lot more rewarding.
In other news, my best friend Amee is coming to visit me next Thursday-Sunday. She lives in Jacksonville Florida and I have missed her a lot! She is the best friend I have ever had. We met when I was in 6th grade and she was in 7th. I have planned several activities, we are going on a tour and hike at Sweetwater Creek State Park. A wooded trail follows the free-flowing stream to the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company, a textile mill burned during the Civil War. Beyond the mill, the trail climbs rocky bluffs to provide views of the beautiful shoals below. It is really neat to see the ruins and the walk is a nice moderate exercise. We are also going to see the new Matt Damon movie, Bourne Ultimatum. I can't wait to see it, I have seen the other Bourne movies and they were pretty good. Other than those two activities we will be going to a nice mall in Atlanta to visit Teavana and eating sushi at my favorite restaurant Tokyo Steakhouse. I know we are going to have a blast and I can't wait!

Tea pot husband made

2007-08-03T20:27:00.000-07:00

My husband Chris (who is quite the artist) went to this pottery painting place with some co-workers for a department exercise and Chris painted me this tea pot and cup combo. Our kitchen is decorated in Tuscan lavender theme and he perfectly painted this piece. I do not have a set like this so far, so it is very nice to have. Coming from someone who cannot draw a stick figure at all, I am very impressed with it. Chris has asked me several times if I have posted pictures of it yet as he is very proud of it, so here you go hunny! Love ya!

Swaps I received today-2

2007-08-03T19:47:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of another swap package I received today. This swap was called the Loose Tea Swap and the guidelines were to send at least 1 Tbsp. of 5 different teas to 2 people. Poor girl that sent this, kgeslab, has been my swap partner for several partners already. I'll bet she has my address saved in her permanent address book! I really enjoy the items she has sent me and this swap is no exception. The teas sent are: Hibiscus High, Mandarin Orange Green Tea, Empress of China, Rooibos Tropica, and Thai Tea Blend. She has sent me the Mandarin orange green tea before, but I had drank it all already.

Swaps I received today-1

2007-08-03T19:36:00.001-07:00

I received 2 packages today, one from Origami Grace for the Summery Quick Pick Me Up Swap. She sent some tea bags, small bag of buttons, candy in a foreign language, Mary Engelbreit gift tags, summery themed note pad and some bath salts also in a foreign language. The swap requirements were to send 2 items from a simple list, so this obviously went above and beyond.

Some of my favorite pictures

2007-07-30T20:35:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, I love lavender stuff and Tuscany themed items, so here is one of my favorite pictures. I'm sure my husband is getting tired of seeing lavender stuff everywhere!

Tea Reviews

2007-07-26T13:13:00.001-07:00

I have decided to share my love of tea with the world! I have tried a lot of teas, be it loose, bottled or bagged and have compiled a preliminary list of some of the ones I've tried. I will be updating this list as I try new ones, which is often!

Adagio Chamomile Tea (loose)-Fresh, chamomile flowers, great for nighttime. 5 stars

Adagio Citron Green Tea (loose)-This green tea is very fragrant and makes a lovely cup of tea. Brew for 5-10 minutes then strain leaves and add sugar or honey. Contains caffeine. Citrus taste is mild and rounds out the green tea flavor. 5 stars

Adagio Decaf Citron Green Tea (loose)-This tea is very similar to the caffeinated version except the citrus is a little more understated. Great for evenings before bed.5 stars

Adagio Earl Gray Bravo Tea (loose)-Very nice Earl Grey tea, strong delicious flavor. Watch steep time or it will be bitter. 5 stars

Adagio Decaf Earl Grey Bravo (loose)-Wonderful decaf version of their regular Earl Grey, hardly any taste difference, great for late afternoons or evenings when you desire caffeine free. 5 stars

Adagio Fruit Medley (loose)-Nice blend of fruits, raspberry, strawberry, hibiscus flowers, blackberry, apples, rose hips, elderberry and bilberry. Caffeine free and also nice iced. 4 stars

Adagio Peppermint Leaf Tea (loose)-Fresh, dried peppermint leaves, so much better than anything bagged or store bought. Caffeine free. Great blended with chamomile for night time. 5 stars.

Adagio Raspberry Patch (loose)-Strong fruit tea from Adagio. Does not need to be steeped too long or it will get bitter. Very nice iced. 4 stars

Adagio Rooibos (loose)-Very strong, fresh tea. I blend this with other teas as I don't personally like rooibos by itself. Still good tea, makes nice base for blends. 4 stars

Adagio Snow Bud White Tea (loose)-Very nice basic white tea, gets great flavor if allowed to steep for a while. 5 stars

Adagio Silver Needle White Tea (loose)-I have come to the conclusion that several of the white teas taste very similar. Very mild and light. 5 stars

Adagio White Peony Tea (loose)-This white tea is one of the stronger white teas I have tasted. Definite flowery flavor. Nice change from plain old white tea though. 4 stars

Arizona Black & White Tea (bottled)-Very nice mix of white and black tea, makes a mild easy to drink beverage. 4 stars

Arizona Georgia Peach Tea (bottled)-Very nice mild tea with a moderately strong peach taste. Hopefully this tea will stay available. 4 stars

Bigelow Earl Grey (bagged)-Nice strong black tea. Do not brew too long or it will be bitter. 4 stars

Luzianne Decaf Iced Tea Bags-Perfect decaf tea bags to make sweet tea. Use four bags per gallon of tea. Boil 2 quarts of water in a pan, then add 4 tea bags, remove from heat and cover. Let steep for at least 2 hours preferably 6 hours. Remove tea bags, add 1 cup of sugar and water to make a gallon. Enjoy over ice. 5 stars

Lipton Pure Leaf White Tea w/Tangerine (bottled)-This tea is Lipton's attempt to make a more natural white tea. This tea still has green tea in it, but it has more white tea than the regular Lipton white tea. This tea is very mild with a barely there tangerine flavor. Very similar to the Snapple White Tea. Very nice, probably my second choice for bottled tea behind the Snapple. 4 stars

Lipton Pure Leaf Green Tea Honey (bottled)-Contains green tea and caffeine. Very nice bottled mild green tea, very close to the bottled white teas. 3 ½ stars

Lipton White Tea w/Raspberry (bottled)-Contains green tea and white, caffeinated. Stronger than other bottled white teas due to the addition of green tea. Raspberry is also stronger. Okay bottled tea in a pinch but nothing special. 1 ½ stars

Orient Emporium Tea Co. Green Tea w/Pomegranate (bottled)-Very strong caffeinated bottled green tea. Pomegranate flavor is very overpowering. I had to water this drink down 50% to make it palatable. Will not buy it again. 1 star

Snapple White Tea w/Green Apple (bottled)-A nice bottled low calorie tea. It’s really hard in my opinion to make a natural tasting green apple taste, but Snapple has almost succeeded. Certainly the best I have ever tasted in a drink. 4 stars

Snapple White Tea w/Nectarine (bottled)-Very nice, low calorie but not artificial sweetened bottled tea. Mild flavor both the tea flavor and the nectarine. Want a thirst quencher without overpowering fake tea taste? Then this is the tea for you. 5 stars

Teavana Caribbean Breeze (loose)-Contains strawberries, apricots, rosehips, apple, elderberries, citrus peel, and hibiscus pieces, and cornflower petals. Very nice fruity but not overpowering tea. Perfect anytime of day as it is decaf. Great blend of all flavors. 5 stars.

Teavana Mandarin Orange Green Tea (loose)-Very nice strong green tea with a mild mandarin orange flavor. Perfect for times when you want a green tea, but not something plain and boring. 5 stars.

Teavana Rooibos Peach Strawberry Kiwi (loose)-Custom blend I bought one day impulsively at the Teavana store. It tastes better iced and is very nice sweetened. My son and husband love this tea and it is a very strong, rich tea.4 stars.

The Republic of Tea, Earth Tea, Alpine Flowers (loose)-This tea contains herbs, berries & blossoms. This is the only description I could find online. This is naturally decaf and very pleasant. I have enjoyed it before bed but have found after refrigeration it is even stronger and better. This is going to be a staple in my tea cabinet. 5 stars

Twinings Cranberry, Raspberry & Elderflower Fruit Bliss Tea (bagged)-Decaf tea with a nice flavor, I steeped this for a while and it was very nice iced. 4 stars

Twinings Chamomile & Limeflowers Fruit Bliss Tea (bagged)- Decaf tea with a wonderful flavor. It takes a few sips to get used to the lime, but once you do, it's very nice. 5 stars.

Twinings Darjeeling Tea (bagged)-Very strong rich tea. But perhaps I steeped it too long. I only added sugar and could see how adding some milk would have helped. Still very nice though. 4 stars

Twinings Earl Grey Tea (bagged)-This is a nice, milder version of some of the stronger Earl Grey's. 4 stars

Twinings Lady Grey Tea (bagged)-More like a citrus black tea than a Earl Grey. I think they were trying to get a real mild Earl Grey-type. 3 stars

Twinings Lemon & Ginger Herbal Tea (bagged)-Caffeine free tea, very strong ginger taste. Not my cup of tea. 1 star

Twinings Prince of Wales Tea (bagged)-Steeped this tea for 5 minutes in boiled water, then added sugar. This tea was very pleasant and went nicely with my breakfast. Very mild and smooth. 5 stars

Daily Digest

2007-07-26T10:26:00.000-07:00

Today I worked from 5 am-9 am, then went on a job interview at Walgreens Pharmancy. The store manager I met with was very nice and seemed to like me as well, so hopefully I will get this job! I then went and picked up Kyle at my Mom's house. He's now sleeping! So cute. I have been making some bookmarks today along with pondering my next project. Yesterday I made some jewelry while Chris was sleeping on the couch. I made bracelets and they turned out pretty nice. See pictures below.

Tea Swap #11

2007-07-19T07:07:00.001-07:00

Here are the teas I received from msnqb for this swap. We have 3 partners, so I still get to receive 2 more (hopefully).

Artist Trading Cards

2007-07-15T16:03:00.000-07:00

Well it seems like the new "it" thing for crafters are ATC's or artist trading cards. Although I do not consider myself an artist (you should see my stick figure drawings) I thought I would try to whip up a few of these. The first two are made of fabric and the other are made of paper. These cards are also suppose to be labeled on the back and numbered. If anyone has experience making these, feel free to drop me a line.

Kings Way Christian School 1997 Class Reunion

2007-07-14T22:23:00.000-07:00

There has been some talk about getting everyone together at the end of July for a reunion. I haven't heard anything yet, but if anyone knows something please post here. So hard to believe it's been 10 years since we graduated. I feel old now! KWCS Class of 1997-let me see if I can remember everyone's names: Nancy,Jessica, Amber (me), Seth, Shean, Rebekka, Brandy, Bill, Brandon Lacey, Brandon C., Scott, Tiffany, Bethany. I think this was our graduation class. I may have added someone who didn't make it.

Kyle sleeping after eating pizza

2007-07-14T22:18:00.000-07:00

Kyle fell asleep after eating pizza in his high chair. It was so cute! We took this picture then cleaned him up and put him in bed. What a sweet boy!

2007-07-14T19:58:00.000-07:00

I received a post card today from an online friend who is on vacation in Arizona. It was very sweet of her to send it to me. She is visiting family there and getting to see her first grandbaby.

Nothing much new

2007-07-10T19:36:00.000-07:00

Didn't receive a package today, but thought I would post anyways. Was off work yesterday and today and will be off again tomorrow, but have to work Thursday and Friday. Job's not bad when I'm off, but when I have to work 10 days in a row, I start to get tired of it. Get paid tomorrow and that's nice. Been raining here everyday, not enough rain to help our dying grass, but enough to ruin plans to take Kyle swimming. He is on his third bubble bath!

Loose Tea Swap

2007-07-07T19:46:00.000-07:00

This swap was to send at least 4 ounces of loose tea to two partners. My sending partners were Shannon and Beagle mom. Beagle mom sent me 5 different varieties of her favorite teas and Shannon sent me a online gift card to Adagio.com my favorite place to get teas and sent me a package with loose teas in hand decorated tins and flavored honeys. See the pictures.

Cookie Cutter Swap

2007-07-06T19:12:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of the items I received from this swap. The sender (Asmom) used a hands and feet subject. They are very cute

Your Culture Intrigues Me

2007-07-05T22:10:00.000-07:00

Here are my items received in this swap from a lady in England (Snaughty Girl). They are: tin of loose tea, candy, regional post card and handmade glass piece from a local artist and one English coin.

I Love Tea Swap

2007-07-05T22:02:00.000-07:00

This lady, kgeslab send me some awesome stuff. They are: a matching tea cup, saucer and plate. She also sent a bee/honey pot loose tea strainer, 5 different types of tea and tea bags.

Flair for Flavor Swap

2007-07-05T21:55:00.000-07:00

I received these items from schlabs from a swap titled Flair for Flavor. Apparently she lives in Germany so most of my items are in German. So neat! They are: two containers of lotion, one container of face lotion, one toy for my son, chocolate,
three lip balms, three packs of gun and three different types of tea
She went above and beyond what was required.

I Love Tea Swap-Beagle Mom

2007-07-05T21:43:00.000-07:00

I have been really busy at work this week and have been unable to take pictures of any crafts. I do however have some pictures of items I received in various swaps on swap-bot.com. So far I have been really pleased with what I've gotten. This one I received from a lady in Maryland. She sent me a tin of green and black tea mix, a green tea towel, trivet, two spoon rests, a perfect tea spoon, green tea mints, three different tea light candles with tea theme and 2 sets of notepads with my first initial on it. They are so very nice items!

Tote Bags

2007-06-20T22:40:00.000-07:00

This evening I designed and sewed a tote bag. It may look simple, but it took me awhile! First I sewed the vintage ribbon on the top with a sewing machine, then I hand sewed each button on. The ribbon was found at a yard sale where the owner had to of been at least 80. So it's safe to say that the ribbon is pretty old. I made this tote bag for a swap-bot swap that I'm participating in. I am a fairly new member of swap-bot.com and I must say that the concept is pretty neat. I just recently had two people not send me their stuff, so I am a little pissed about that as I sent my stuff. But we shall see.

The beginning

2007-06-20T22:29:00.000-07:00

This is the beginning of my new blog. I am tired of myspace and am starting something completely different. Here I am going to post step by step instructions and pics on my many different hobbies and I may even post some random stuff! Check back for more soon!

My Life and Crafts

My first ever poem written by me (and yes, it's sad)

Super awesome giveaway

Blog giveaway

Giveaway from a jewelry artist

Leave a comment, win something!!!

My good deed for the day

Georgia Etsy Team Meeting

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

Poem written by Lorene McPherson

Poem written by my talented brother

New tea to try

Last pictures of my long, beautiful red hair

Many topics

Brother got married

Stuff for sale-new page

Stuff for sale

Trade-snacks for soaps

Super Quick January Tea Swap

Raise your Rate Swap

Swap received-Loose tea of the month club-January

New soap recipe-Amber's Aromatherapy

Just Stuff #5 Swap-piano heart

Tea for Two-myrrmaid

Knifty Knit Tea Swap-Aimee Lee

Christmas Tea swap-zigg13pra-Kelli

A Quick Christmas Yum Swap-LiveTilWeLaugh

Angeled swap-Invisible-Carrie

Swap-Tea Party for Two

Swap-Colors, colors, colors

Update on Kyle

Package received

My Birthday

Kyle is 3!

All About Tea

Just Stuff from girlunderglass

Package received

Full scent list for bath products

Long time no see

Tea Swap #12

Just Stuff Swap

Just for Fun Swap

Handmade Earrings Swap

Candy/Lolly Swap

New swaps received-1

New swaps received-2

Interesting Tea Bag Swap-Sally and Bittercat

New swaps received-4

New swaps received-5

New swaps received-6

Got job, forgot to post

Tea pot husband made

Swaps I received today-2

Swaps I received today-1

Some of my favorite pictures

Tea Reviews

Daily Digest

Tea Swap #11

Artist Trading Cards

Kings Way Christian School 1997 Class Reunion

Kyle sleeping after eating pizza

Nothing much new

Loose Tea Swap

Cookie Cutter Swap

Your Culture Intrigues Me

I Love Tea Swap

Flair for Flavor Swap

I Love Tea Swap-Beagle Mom

Tote Bags

The beginning