My Handmade Addiction

New Gig

2012-01-25T03:42:00.000-08:00

Hello all,

Sorry for the lengthy absence. Check me out over at Karley's blog, Chic and Green . I will be sharing more of my favorite things that are handmade in America.

Hope to see you there,
Deanna

Huggerz boot wraps winner

2011-02-15T16:29:00.000-08:00

The lovely founder of Huggerz, Debbie Thelen Miller, has generously offered to allow the winner to select one pair of Huggerz. That lucky winner is....

Keeley Rae

Congratulations Keeley!

Please contact me at mamagiglio@hotmail.com and give me your mailing address as well as which pair of Huggerz you would like to receive.

Interview with Debbie Thelen Miller: inventor of Huggerz boot wraps

2011-02-01T18:36:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, after a particularly successful "hunting" expedition through Anthropologie's clearance racks, my friend Barb and I wandered down the street to a cute boutique called Oliver's Trendz. One of the very first things we encountered were these faux fur and knitted items that looked like hand muffs. My mind drifted back to early childhood memories of my own genuine rabbit fur hand muffs. {I know what you're thinking but it was the 1970s and we weren't as concerned about cruelty to animals in those days...} But I digress. My mid-day mind fog cleared and we deduced that what we were looking at were boot wraps. I liked what I saw but assumed they were "Made in China" like the preponderance of items in most stores. Boy was I WRONG. It would take just a short time to find out just how wrong I was.

Toddler's hand muffs from Little Muffet on Etsy, $26

About 2 weeks later, another good friend, Angie, sent me a link to Huggerz website. She had watched the local Sunday morning news that features a "Made in Michigan" segment quite regularly. Clicking on the link, my synapses started whirring and sparking. I realized these were the very creations I'd seen a few weeks prior. I was giddy as I realized Huggerz were invented by a clever local lady right here in the metro Detroit area!!! I joined their Facebook page and began drooling over all the lovely styles. I HAD to talk to the smart lady who came up with this clever product! Thankfully she agreed to allow me to interview her and share Huggerz with you!

These are my favorite pair of Huggerz: Sand Fair Isle, $34

Rabbit Huggerz, $39 shown with handmade rabbit pom poms,$14

{An interview with Debbie Thelen Miller:

inventor of Huggerz boot wraps}

Debbie, thank you for allowing me to share your story with my readers. By the end of this interview, I know they too will share my love of your ingenious product.

MHA:

For those who aren't familiar with Huggerz, please tell us what they are.

DTM:

Huggerz Boot Wraps are a cover for your boots that make them look like a totally different pair of boots. They do not just look like something added to the leg of the boot.

MHA:

If you had a tagline for Huggerz what would it be?

DTM: Our tag line is "Wrap your boots to suit your moods."

Embossed Brown Beaver Huggerz, $39

MHA: How and where did you come up with the idea for Huggerz?

DTM:

I was in a hockey rink and my feet were freezing. I was wearing boots and wool socks, but not the super warm shearling style boots. I knew then that I needed to invest in a pair, but when I started shopping, I could not decide what style to buy. I loved the ones with the fur. I loved the ones with the knit. I loved the patterned ones. But, I could not buy 3 or 4 different pairs, and I hated to spend all that money and be "stuck" with one look. That is when the idea hit me.

MHA:

During our phone conversation you shared with me that all aspects of production are done in Michigan. How many jobs were created by your company?

DTM:

To date, we have created 3 full time jobs!!!! We have also added 3 part time jobs. I hope to keep building from there.

MHA:

When did you first realize Huggerz was going to be a hit?

DTM:

Hmmm. Well, I knew that I was on to something when I wore my "test" pair out and about and had people stopping me to comment on my boots. The fact that they could not tell that they were covers, really made me happy. I am constantly thrilled to hear how much people love them and hope that the Huggerz "craze" as it has been called, continues.

**MHA: Deb also shared with me that 1500 pairs of Huggerz was sold in the 3 weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas 2010...that's impressive**

MHA:

How long did it take from the time you got the idea for Huggerz until they were first available for purchase?

DTM:

I had to wait until I had my patent pending status to sell any. So, I sold my first pairs 4 months after I came up with idea. But those were just more "test" pairs. They hit the market on our website and in local stores almost 2 years after I first had the idea. There was lots of research and product design, along with all the legal work, that had to be done.

MHA:

What has been one of the biggest challenges you've faced with the company?

DTM:

Pulling together the people and the funding to do it right!

MHA:

Share with us some of the surprising things that happened to you since Huggerz was "born".

DTM:
Good question! I think that I have been surprised by the overwhelming response to the product. I have been surprised by how hard it is to find products made in the USA. I have been surprised by all of the details that I never would have thought of! Frankly, I am surprised that I am running a company!

MHA:

How do you promote your product?

DTM:

Our primary vehicle for promotion is the internet. My marketing firm has sent out some press releases to the media, and we have had some nice responses from those. Our best promotion is from people wearing them!

MHA:

You sell Huggerz through your website but where else can readers purchase a pair?

DTM:

There are currently 10 retailers that carry Huggerz Boot Wraps and accessories. They are listed on our facebook page (Huggerz) under the info tab, and they are currently being added to our website.

MHA:

Do you have plans for eco-friendly and or organic material options in the future?

DTM:

Absolutely. From the very beginning I have wanted to do a line made from recycled sweaters. I would also love to use organic cotton.

MHA:

As wife, mother and business owner, how do you juggle all of your responsibilities?

DTM:

Some days, frankly, not very well! My 13 year old has taken to baking. My husband has learned to do the laundry, and everyone has had to get used to a less tidy home! They also expect my phone and laptop to be attached to me..... I have guilt, but I also know that they will all develop good skills from this, and that one day, I hope, it will all be worth it!

Fun and funky Black Zebra Huggerz, $28

Once again, thank you Deb, for allowing me to interview you and share your cool products with my readers!

Deb has agreed to sponsor a Huggerz giveaway on My Handmade Addiction. The lucky winner will receive one pair of Huggerz of their choice!!!

The giveaway will run through February 14th. To enter, please comment under this post. If you post a comment on My Handmade Addiction's Facebook page, you will also receive one entry!

Best of luck to all entrants!

Stay warm,

Deanna

Teaser....

2011-02-01T06:11:00.000-08:00

I'm putting the finishing touches
on my exclusive interview.
It should be up within the next day.

I can tell you that the interview dovetails nicely with the alleged snow storm

due to hit in the next day as well....

Stay tuned,

Deanna

Exclusive interview coming soon....

2011-01-26T16:12:00.000-08:00

I will be interviewing a local entrepreneur later this week who invented a clever product that I'm just crazy about.

I don't want to give away too many details so please keep an eye out for the new post!

Have a lovely evening,

Deanna

Hot Cocoa

2011-01-16T04:29:00.000-08:00

Rushing in through the back door from playing out in the white, blustery Michigan winter with snow drifts higher than one's head. What elixir will thaw a frozen child, quicker than a jack rabbit can cross the yard, embracing you with warm, chocolaty sweetness? HOT COCOA, of course.

An ode to that beloved beverage of my youth

Hot Chocolate & Cardamom foaming sugar scrub
from Nature's Edge Farms, $9 for 8 ounce jar.

Hot chocolate and blue mittens, from Miracle Mittens, $38

Peruvian Cacao sampler set from Flying Bird Botanicals, $29.75

Cocoa Mallow body butter from Solstice Scents, $9, for 4 ounces

Hot Chocolate open edition print, $38 Janet Hill Studio

Ah...cocoa warms thy soul. Don't you agree?

What's in store for twenty eleven

2011-01-10T11:14:00.000-08:00

Good Afternoon,
In the short time I've been blogging, I've so enjoyed sharing my Etsy finds, favorite shops as well as a glimpse into my crafty pursuits. As much as I enjoy sharing those things with you, I find myself wanting to switch things up a little with the coming of the New Year.

I LOVE a good story. In 2011, I will be interviewing a few handmade artisans and sharing their stories with you. I already have a handful of folks in mind at this time.

Stay warm and stay tuned,
Deanna

Happy New Year: help please

2011-01-04T06:35:00.000-08:00

Hello all,
Today is the second day of the week and the second day getting back to a schedule of sorts. I've been pondering some new directions I'd like to go with the blog. I'd love to get some input though. Can you share with me what you'd like to see more of from My Handmade Addiction in 2011?

With my appreciation,
Deanna

December 2010 giveaway winner announced now

2011-01-01T13:24:00.000-08:00

And the winner for December 2010 giveaway featuring Nature's Edge Farm handmade soaps and body lotion is....

Christy on the Craggy Moor

Congratulations Christy and Happy New Year!!!!

Potpourri of Pretty

2010-12-29T17:07:00.000-08:00

I feel like part of my brain is still in Christmas mode while another is thinking New Year's and changing seasons. My selection of "pretty things" seems a bit disjointed. I just wanted you to know that I'm aware of my seemingly odd selection.

Are you feeling this way too?

This weekly planner, $25 from Lily Jane Stationery caught my eye!

But so did this red tinsel string, $6 for 18 feet from Vintage Handmade by julie collings

Wouldn't this white statement necklace, $39.99 from
Nueva Espana look so lovely on New Year's Eve?

Oddly, this autumn necklace entitled, Melody of Fall, $45
from Beauty Spot still appeals to me this time of year.

Browsing today, I couldn't help but stop and pause to gaze at these vintage
green Polish ornaments, $14.75 for one dozen. They just ooze old-school charm!
Stop by Oodles and Oodles to view more of their vintage eye candy goodness!

I love the saying on this nifty little pin from Beanforest, $1.
This sentiment is season less!

Have a cozy Wednesday evening all,
~Deanna

For the lover of lavender...a gift set from Nature's Edge Farm

2010-12-08T10:02:00.000-08:00

Yet another reason to shop with Nature's Edge Herb Farm on Etsy... convenience{ and value}!

Just take a gander at this pretty Lavender gift set John put together for us....

A beautiful, natural gift for under $25 {including shipping to your doorstep}!

The gift set includes:

*1 Lavender Fields bar
*1 Lavender Lemongrass bar
*1 French Lavender lotion in a purple organza sack
*1 Lavender Fields body mist perfume
*1 cotton sachet of organic lavender buds

♥

This would make a lovely gift for a teacher, friend, Secret Santa, hostess gift or gift to yourself to enjoy after the holidays are over.

Head over to Nature's Edge Herb Farm to pick up yours! :)

Have a happy afternoon,
Deanna

Crafty distractions

2010-12-06T13:40:00.000-08:00

Hello readers,

Boy is it chilly here this afternoon. I apologize for being a bit absent again from the blog. If you're like me you're busy too trying to get Christmas shopping/prep done. I have to sit down later this afternoon to get a handle on what I've done and what I have left to do.

In typical fashion, although I tried not to do it...I've veered a bit off course and got myself involved in a Christmas "project". I'm really diggin' making "scrabble tile" necklaces. The ones I've been prepping to make are actually round and rectangular. I got the itch to make them after buying the one pictured below. I get so many compliments on it when I wear it.

There are various shops on Etsy selling them but I was fairly confident I could make them. So, I spent hours upon hours looking at the graphics, jewelry supplies and paper cutting tools both online and in the local craft stores. So this is my current obsession/creative outlet/time consumer in my life! I'll post some of my work when I finish a few pieces. I'm even thinking of making one for my son for Christmas with a soccer ball and his team number on it.

If you'd like to join the madness, here are a few of the places I've found my supplies:

Michael's and JoAnn's both carry the Fiskars "round and round" paper punches in 1 and 1.5 inch diameter. Use a weekly 40% coupon and you'll spend much less than you can get them for online. Both craft stores (and Hobby Lobby) carry the 1and 1.5 inch wooden circle/disks that will be the base of the pendants. I picked up the bails and ball and chain necklaces at Hobby Lobby in silver but they're probably not the best quality and the price wasn't great. I already have Mod Podge but there are other glue/glaze products made specifically for this kind of crafting. I'll be trying out a product called Diamond Glaze very soon and also have Paper Glaze.

I've looked at several Etsy shops*{see list below} for graphics that I may buy from in the future. For now I've been raiding my scrapbooking stash for pretty designs.

I bought the bulk of my supplies from Candy Tiles Craft and Jewelry Supply on Etsy. My goodies should arrive this week and I hope to be crafting shortly thereafter! I can't wait!

Have a warm and toasty night with your loved ones,
Deanna

*A few Etsy shops that sell pretty digital graphics in 1 and 1.5 inch circles:
Charmed Memory Collage

Sabine Sydney

Kitsch & Kaboodle

P.S. If you have any questions about crafting these pretty little baubles, please feel free to contact me!

December giveaway sponsored by Nature's Edge Farm

2010-12-02T11:51:00.000-08:00

My Handmade Addiction's

BIG

December giveaway 2010:

From Nature's Edge Farm

Regular readers know how much I love the handmade soaps, lotions and scrubs from Nature's Edge Farm. I've been shopping with Nature's Edge Farm since August 2009. I have never been disappointed with any of my purchases from John EVER! ALL of his products are truly handmade. He doesn't use bases but rather blends all of his lovely bath creations with his own hands {not bare handed mind you, lol}. He scrutinizes each ingredient as thoroughly as a scientist. I adore everything about his products from the ingredients to the packaging. Nature's Edge Farm also offers very generously sized soaps (usually 5 ounces each) at very reasonable prices. John makes using his handmade soaps an affordable luxury. Packages from Nature's Edge farm are shipped so fast I'd swear that we live in the same state.

Nature's Edge Farm first began in Canterbury, CT. John recently moved to the gulf side of Florida. Boy those folks in Florida sure are lucky! Local readers can buy Nature's Edge Farm soaps now at Kitty Deluxe in St. Clair Shores. Perfect for those of us who need "instant gratification".

If you've never tried handmade soap, do yourself a favor and buy a bar. I think you'll like the results. Please keep in mind that handmade soap is softer than commercial bars. Use a well draining soap dish and DON'T keep the soap in the shower. Soap lasts much longer when it can dry out between uses!

To view the details of the products in this month's HUGE giveaway, please click the following links:
holiday five pack
evergreen body lotion

snowflake soap

bayberry soap

citrus peel and pine

Mistletoe soap

frankincense and myrrh soap

evergreen body lotion

=
One thankful blogger,

One magnificent giveaway for December,

many people hoping to win,

One darn lucky winner,

{after using their prize}

One winner with soft, lovely smelling skin!!!

HOW TO ENTER:

1) If you are not a follower of My Handmade Addiction please do so = 1 entry

2) "Like" My Handmade Addiction's Facebook site = 1 entry3) Comment below with your current email address = 1 entry

4) Check back here and on Facebook throughout the month of December for a few extra chances to win :)

My sincere thanks to

John at Nature's Edge Farm

for sponsoring this month's giveaway!

You've made me a handmade soap snob!

December's giveaway will be announced tomorrow

2010-12-01T15:39:00.000-08:00

Be on the look out for

My Handmade Addiction's

December giveaway 2010...

it's a great one!

November's giveaway winner announced...

2010-12-01T04:19:00.000-08:00

The winner of the Sweet Potato Soap , a 5 ounce jar of Sweet Potato Sugar Scrub and a cream colored Soap Sack from Bathhouse Soapery & Caldarium is.....Indira G!

Congratulations to you, Indira!!!!

More pre-Black Friday deals to share... savings from LouBird Handmade Jewerly

2010-11-23T15:54:00.000-08:00

Hello Readers,
I have an exclusive offer for you! Karley over at loubirdhandmade.com just emailed me this special offer:

"I have a special code just for readers of My Handmade Addiction....enter code HANDMADEADDICT and save 15% on all orders now through 11/30 at loubirdhandmade.com! I even have a $5 sale rack to make room for all the new stuff going in this weekend, so there are some GREAT deals :) Karley"

Just a small sampling of the loveliness and great deals....

Gabrielle -- Dainty Yellow Rose Hair Pin Duo in Antique Brass, $5

Only $4.25 with your 15% discount

Nathalie -- Jet Set Cluster Necklace in Black, $25

only $21.25 with your discount code

Gigi -- Green Vintage Olivene Dangle Earrings, $15

Just $12.75 with your discount code!!!

Head on over to www.loubirdhandmade and check off a few items from your shopping list or pick up something for yourself to wear over the holiday season!

♥Many thanks to dear Karley

for sharing this sweet deal with us♥

Let the deals begin.....

2010-11-23T13:16:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows that Friday is in official start to holiday shopping. I have a few deals to share with you to get a head start on the Black Friday Madness. On Saturday posted about a fantastic product called Boot Buffers.

Boot Buffers shared a great 2fer deal with me.
Two pairs of Boot Buffers for $30.

If you're extra, super nice to me, I'll let you in on another deal.........{is that you, being super nice.......thought so}.......Joan shared a super special coupon code with moi.

use the coupon code "LOVEMYBOOTS" to get 10% off, starting immediately!

Be on the look out for more deals from some of my other favorite HANDMADE shops!

If you know of some great shopping deals, share the love either here in the comments section or on
My Handmade Addiction's Facebook Page

Boot Weather

2010-11-20T13:28:00.000-08:00

As the temperatures begin to flirt with the freezing mark, winter coats, scarfs, boots, knitted gloves and mittens all start making their way to the front of the coat closet. I like to be warm in the winter but not bundled up and sweaty hot {think of little Randy from A Christmas Story, bundled so tightly that he couldn't put his arms down }. I prefer to wear thinner jackets or vests instead of big, heavy coats for all but the most frigid of winter's weather.

Around mid-October I started getting the itch to buy a new pair of boots. If you too have been browsing boot styles recently, you've no doubt noticed this season's trend of above the knee boots. While I really like that look, I don't have the guts to purchase a pair. After much deliberation, I chose a pair of tall riding boots in an grayish taupe color. The color coordinates well with browns, neutrals, charcoal, black and the pretty plums and peacock shades of the season. This versatile boot can be dressed up or down and therefore very practical and very "me".

Under the knee tall riding boot

While watching a Piston's basketball game a few weeks ago I spied a casually clad, yet fashionable twenty~something wearing tall boots with woolly, warm socks peeking out of the top. This look was simply adorable. Given my aversion to hot, sweaty feet, I suspected that translating it into a practical, everyday look for myself would be nearly impossible. Nearly! The next morning I scooted up to my keyboard and started browsing...where else but Etsy! I didn't take long for me to hit pay dirt!

Boot Buffers are offered in a variety of colors, $16

Boot Buffers knits up faux socks in an array of winter colors.

Marketed for ladies with small calves {not me} who need to "fill the gap" between their too big boots and their lovely little calves! These little knitted wonders are also just plain cute and give the illusion of wearing thick socks without the bulk! OK, I'm convinced...I "need" some! My only "problem" is which colors of boot buffers will coordinate with most of my wardrobe... :)

Pumpkin Pie

2010-11-18T12:24:00.000-08:00

Nature's Edge Farm, Pumpkin Pie soap, $4

I just realized that Thanksgiving is exactly one week away. This time next week I should be enjoying a slice of pumpkin pie with a cup of coffee.

My favorite soap shop sells a to die for, calorie free version of that traditional Thanksgiving dessert. John from Nature's Edge Farm makes a Pumpkin Pie Soap that not only smells amazing, but is stunningly beautiful.

Why not order a bar to take as a hostess gift next Thursday. Your host or hostess may just slip you an extra piece of pumpkin pie to thank you for your thoughtfulness!

Have a lovely afternoon,
Deanna

De-stressing for the Holidays: Priorities vs. "shoulds"

2010-11-17T06:02:00.000-08:00

Hello readers,
Today is the first installment in a series on maximizing enjoyment during the upcoming holiday season. Common sense tells us if we pare down on holiday obligations, we'll likely enjoy the activities we do partake in much more. So why is it that few of us actual do this? There are a host of reasons no doubt with guilt topping the list. As parents in particular, do we really want to be teaching our children to continue certain "traditions" that are obligatory, stressful and eat up precious time that could be spent elsewhere? The types of activities I'm talking about are very subjective and relative to your circumstances. For example, several years ago when my son was but a mere toddler, baking cookies for Christmas was one of those nasty "shoulds" that jeered at me from my Christmas TO DO list. It wasn't feasible nor enjoyable at that stage in my life.

I stopped baking Christmas cookies for several years...not that I didn't get some "flack" from some who did not approve of my decision. As my son got older, a nice family tradition has emerged in our house. My husband and I bake cookies with our son. I have to tell you, it's so nice having the extra hands in the kitchen. Eventually Cole's attention span and enthusiasm wanes, and Frank and I are left in the kitchen to bake those last few dozen cookies. Even though the baking doesn't quite match up to the "perfect" scenario I have in my head, I still look forward to this annual tradition.

One reason why I actually look forward to it is because we've eliminated other less enjoyable "traditions", thereby freeing up time and energy. By way of example, though decidedly beautiful and festive, our Department 56 Christmas village hasn't seen the light of a day in many, many years. It's not that I don't love it. It's just that the amount of energy and time it takes to set up isn't worth it to me at this stage in the game.

I challenge each one of you to identify one tradition you want to make time for this year as well as identify one that you'd like to ditch. And please, please, please, do tell so you can inspire the rest of us!

Have a fine day editing your Christmas to do list,
Deanna

What's the deal with giveaways?

2010-11-15T15:47:00.000-08:00

Good evening,
The thought occurred to me the other night as I was announcing the November giveaway that some of you may be wondering why I'm hosting them. I mean I'm not a shop owner trying to promote my products. The reason, dear readers that I do host these giveaways is to give you the opportunity to try some of the handmade products I rave about here on My Handmade Addiction. As you may have noticed, the shops that have donated their products are all shops that I buy from and love.

I suspect you'll love them as much as I do. If along the way you find that you like what I have to say here on my blog, it is my hope that you'll comment from time to time and share a bit of your own wisdom as well!

That's all. I promise! I'm not secretly peddling Ginsu knives (not that there's anything wrong with that, lol)!

~Deanna

Announcing November's Giveaway

2010-11-12T17:40:00.000-08:00

Good evening all,

It's mid November....but November nonetheless. I'm SO excited about this month's giveaway! Last year about this time I first "discovered" Bathhouse Soapery on Etsy. Founder Charlene Simon handcrafts her bathing luxuries in her lovely shop, Bathhouse Soapery & Caldarium, on Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs, AR. In addition to her brick and mortar and Etsy stores, Char maintains her successful primary website www.bathhousesoap.com.

I purchased...ahem...several products from Bathhouse last year for Christmas. Two of those items are up for grabs this month. I can attest to the incredible, mouthwatering smell of this scent. You'll feel pampered as your drift off to visions of the sweetest Thanksgiving sweet potato casserole that ever passed your lips!

Without further ado.....

The winner of the November giveaway will receive a 4.5 - 5.0 ounce bar of Sweet Potato Soap , a 5 ounce jar of Sweet Potato Sugar Scrub and a cream colored Soap Sack.

How to enter:

1) If you are not a follower of My Handmade Addiction please do so = 1 entry

2) "Like" My Handmade Addiction's Facebook site = 1 entry

3) Comment below with your current email address = 1 entry

4) Share a link this giveaway post on your blog = 1 entry
* please comment again to let me know you did*

Many thanks to

Char for providing this month's

giveaway products!

♥♥♥You're a sweetheart!♥♥♥

Have a blessed and beautiful weekend all,

~Deanna

a new look for the winter

2010-11-12T16:27:00.000-08:00

Hello Readers,
I hope you like the blog's new winter duds. It took a bit of time but it's the kind of tinkering I like to do. What do you think????

Have a lovely evening,
Deanna

Christmas Carols: Part I: Etsy treasury: Silver & Gold

2010-11-11T11:14:00.000-08:00

This is a little something I pieced together this morning to get you into the holiday spirit....yes, I know it's not even Thanksgiving yet ;)

Christmas Carols: Part I

I'm back, baby!

2010-11-11T03:47:00.000-08:00

Hello Readers,

"Nobody puts Baby in the corner", lol! Well, I put myself in the corner to attend to a few much neglected areas of my life. But I'm back now!

As you may have noticed, I've been missing from the blogosphere. I was wrapped up in end-of-the-season soccer activities, Halloween and household "stuff". Part of the household "stuff" I worked on was a major, and I mean MAJOR office cleaning and organizing task. I'm not exaggerating when I say the space was looking like a scene from "Hoarders". I didn't plan to tackle this particular task on this particular day. Oddly, this is a strategy that has always worked very well for me. One day I walked into my office at about 11:00 AM and didn't make it outta there until I picked up my son from school. It was very unplanned yet highly productive. I got through piles that have been in here for as many as seven years. This room has never, ever been this clean. A strange thing happened the following day. I was drinking my morning coffee and I started peeking in the 3 hanging file cabinets and the drawers I keep my greeting cards, envelopes, stamps, address book...you know, the usual stuff in a desk. I could NOT help but start cleaning out and organizing there too. That is NOT like me. Now my office is actually a peaceful and inspiring place to be.

During this time off I've also been "percolating" on some things I want to share with you. Way back when, I used to practice mental health counseling. This was many, many moons ago. The clinic I worked for put together a kind of "how to survive the holidays with your sanity in tact" type of seminar that never came to fruition. Sadly, some 11~ish years later, the message is one that I believe many families, in particular mothers, would like to hear. Instead of merely "surviving" the holidays, I'd like to take a much more positive, and upbeat approach, focusing instead, on ENJOYING the holidays. Don't laugh, it IS possible even for those of us who aren't Pollyannas! In the following weeks I will be sharing with you some ways to help you and your family enjoy the upcoming holiday season. I invite you all to weigh in on my ideas and to please, oh please, share some of your own personal wisdom on the subject!

Have a lovely Thursday,
Deanna

October's winner is....

2010-10-25T13:32:00.000-07:00

I'm so sorry for the delay in drawing the winner for my October giveaway. My computer has a "bug" and is still "ill". On to the good stuff.

We finally have a winner....and the winner is:

A Greener Upstate

Congratulations! I'll be contacting you shortly!

Have a lovely evening,

Deanna

Technical difficulties briefly delay giveaway drawing

2010-10-25T10:47:00.000-07:00

Sophie's Autumn Attire

2010-10-13T06:21:00.000-07:00

I'm head over heels for our new puppy, Sophie. I'm sure you've probably noticed. A few friends think I'll be buying dog clothes for her though I deny it vehemently. I WILL be buying her cute, seasonal collars for certain. Last week I bought this pretty paisley, autumn-hued collar from Creature Collars over at Etsy. Shop owner, Anna was so sweet and got the collar to me very quickly. She's based in Orlando, Florida so the fact that I bought this on Tuesday and it arrived in Friday's mail really impressed me. If you're in the market for cute, classy collars you should click on over to Anna's Creature Collars and browse her vast selection.

Sophie posing with her Warm Autumn Spice Paisley Collar, $12

Another view of Soph in her pretty collar that she'll wear up for the entire fall season.

Enjoy your day!

October giveaway

2010-10-04T06:47:00.000-07:00

Good Monday morning to you,

Fall is here! It's hard to believe it's already October. This month's giveaway is absolutely sweet and you're sure to enjoy it! I decided to end October's giveaway a bit early this month so that you can enjoy your lovely soaps in time for Halloween!

From Monday 10/4- Monday 10/25 you may enter to win by doing one or more of the following:

1) If you are not a follower of My Handmade Addicition please do so = 1 entry

2) "Like" My Handmade Addiction's Facebook site = 1 entry

3) Comment below with your current email address = 1 entry

4) Share a link this giveaway post on your blog = 1 entry

Enough already, right???? This month one lucky person will win a trio of soaps from Capricorn Soap Company!!!! You may recognize these soaps since I blogged about them back at the end of August when I was starting to get "fall fever"! Many thanks to dear Christina for donating these lovely soaps!!!! ** Please note, cute little jack 'o lantern is not included**

Petit noir guest soaps in Cider and Harvest scents, 2 oz. each

Full sized, 4.5 oz. Cider bath soap

I will draw the winner on Monday, October 25th so you can share these soaps with any little ghosts or goblins that may happen by your house on Halloween!!!!

And the winner is.....

2010-10-01T04:33:00.000-07:00

The winner for My Handmade Addiction's first giveaway is ......

Slyraccoon

Congratulations!!!!

Please contact me ASAP so I can get your

gorgeous LouBird Handmade lovelies in the mail to you!!!!

Later today I'll let you all know what October's giveaway will be.....I'll tell you this....it's screams autumn!!!!

Stay tuned...♥

Abundance of Autumn: Harvest Day at The Lamb's Tail Antiques

2010-09-30T12:08:00.000-07:00

The weekend began with temperatures in the low 80's on Friday afternoon where I live. By 8 o'clock that evening it had dropped to the 60's. The remainder of the weekend weather was decidedly fall. It was the ideal time to go to a harvest festival. At 10:00 Saturday morning that's exactly what my good friend and I did! One of our beloved places to shop is in a small town about thirty minutes from where I live. The Lamb's Tail Antiques in Armada, Michigan is housed in a red barn that is quite literally "filled to the rafters" with all the types of needful things I like...

Handmade, re-purposed, french country, primitives,

antiques, locally harvested botanicals, pumpkins and gourds,

bittersweet, Sweet Annie, local honey and specialty tea blends...

sigh... I declare... it's a little slice of heaven!

Harvest Day 2010 at The Lamb's Tail Antiques in Armada, Michigan.

One of the gorgeously decked out tents

The fabulous finds my good friend Angie and I left with.

Now that it's Thursday and another soccer-free weekend, I know where I'd love to be going....

If you're in the area stop by The Lamb's Tail Antiques and tell Bonnie hello for me!

Have a great weekend!

P.S. Here are a few more pictures of the cute things I bought last weekend....

I bought this vinatage wool blanket at Harvest Day 2009.

Round scrabble tile necklace, $6...I know, 6 bucks!

Colorful long skinny scarf, $17.50

Re-purposed purse/tote made from a man's woolen suit coat, $29

About Face

2010-09-23T13:54:00.000-07:00

One of the most difficult things about switching from conventional beauty products to greener ones is knowing what to buy. I went through a long period of trial and error. Not knowing which ingredients to avoid and being uneducated about ingredient "lingo", I wasted so much time and money. In no way are my following recommendations meant to imply that I'm an expert on skincare. Rather, these are some products I've found to be beneficial for me and my skin type (which alternates between combination and normal(ish). I notice these variations depend upon outdoor (and indoor) weather, as well as hormonal fluctuations. I again encourage you to use cosmeticsdatabase.com as a resource for learning which products and ingredients to avoid. Many books have been published about natural/organic/green beauty. Check out a few from your local library to start educating yourself!

I've had a few people ask me what I use to wash my face. To be honest, I switch up my facial care routine slightly when the seasons change. As the seasons change, so too does our skin's moisturizing needs. One of the most dramatic changes I ever made was using face lotion on my whole face, even the oily T-zone. It amazed me that my T-zone slowed it's oil production once it received the correct amount of moisture. Similarly important, but often ignored, is moisturizing the skin on your neck. But I digress, I meant to discuss facial cleansers. I'll save the topic of facial moisturizers for a different day.

Some facial soaps that I recommend:

I {heart} Calendula, 5 ounce bar, $4

Calendula Castile soap, $3.35** for 5 ounces

Nature's Edge Farm's "I {heart} Calendula" is a nice facial bar that works equally well on your entire body. Unfortunately, this soap is NOT currently available. It's on the curing rack and will available in a few weeks. This soap is worth the wait as it's neither overly drying nor does it leave you feeling greasy. Keep a close eye on Nature's Edge Farm new website for the I {heart}Calendula as well for some tempting autumn soaps that will debut very soon!

In the meantime, try a new formulation that's extremely gentle on your face, Calendula Castile. It's available now at a ridiculously low, moving sale price on Etsy**. This palm oil free soap is made with olive oil that has been infused with calendula. Calendula petals also add to the "pretty factor" of this soap as does the fleur-de-lis stamp. Packaged very "greenly", this bar features a handmade lotka paper label. **I've been using this bar for the past week so that I could give you my honest opinion about it as a facial bar. I have to tell you, it's very nice. The bar isn't a high lathering bar which makes it particularly well suited for the face. It has left my face very soft and well cleansed.

Rose Clay soap, 5 ounce bar, $5.50

In the winter months I like to use Aunt Nancy's Rose Clay Fragrance Free Facial bar. This gentle bar gets it's rosy pink hue from rose clay. This soap is so mild that I've used it to remove mascara without any irritation whatsoever!

Baby Face soap, 4.5-5 ounce bar , $6

Michigan-based Relic Soap Co. makes another mild facial bar that I adore for washing my face each morning and night. I used it for most of the summer but think it would be an ideal bar in the winter months as well. Baby Face artisan soap is so gentle that I actually use it to wash off my mascara. Baby face does contain lavender essential oil, but it is not overly fragranced in the least! Other key ingredients include goat milk, french rose clay, chamomile and calendula flower extracts.

Some soaps that I would LOVE to try:

Alchemic Muse's Sublime Skincare Complexion soap. Alchemic Muse offers 6 different formulations to choose from.

Sublime Skincare Complexion soaps, 2 ounce bars, $6

Botanika: "to balance and refresh oily, acne-prone skin types"

Nectar: "excellent for any skin type"

Paradox: "brighten and revitalize dull skin"

Oceania: "to nourish and purify the skin"

Elixir: "to rejuvenate and restore mature skin types"

Panacea: "to soothe and restore problem skin types"

Rosehip & Geranium facial soap, 3.5 ounces for $6

Bathhouse Soapery & Caldarium makes a Rosehip & Geranium soap for normal to combination skin that sounds divine. I've purchased plenty of items from Charlene's Etsy store and have had loved all of my purchases. This facial soap is currently only available on her main website, bathhousesoap.com. Please visit her main site or her Etsy shop for other indulgences for the bath.

Hydrangeas in autumn

2010-09-22T12:10:00.000-07:00

Just picked these beauties to grace our kitchen table.

Hello Readers,
I wanted to share this picture of the hydrangeas I just picked. I hope you can see the pinkish~brown hue mixed in with the pretty green flowers. I don't recall them ever turning this color before.

Have a lovely afternoon,
Deanna

What is your favorite thing about autumn?

2010-09-20T08:11:00.000-07:00

I absolutely, positively, without a doubt, LOVE, LOVE, LOVE autumn! Always have, always will! When I was a kid, fall meant back-to-school. I really loved school. I also had an odd love of school supplies. Paper products in particular, had a peculiar effect on me. Perhaps it was the feeling of unknown potential of that blank paper. Or maybe I was just a bit "off", lol! I was (and truth be told, still am) somewhat of a geek in that regard. I continue to have a fondness for notebooks, journals, sticky notes, grocery list pads! If it's cute, I want it! Later this week I'll share a few Etsy finds I've recently spotted that just may quell my "addiction" to paper.

Since this is my favorite season of the year, I have a plethora of fall things that I adore. Below are 5, in no particular order....

1) Wearing jeans again

2) Cider

3) Pumpkin picking

4) comforting scents like apple, cinnamon, clove, vanilla & pumpkin
5) Crockpot cooking

I pose this question to you...

What is your favorite thing about autumn?

First Giveaway

2010-09-14T11:37:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder: tomorrow is the last day to be entered in the drawing for the September giveaway featuring lovely handmade creations from LouBird Handmade. If you haven't made a comment please do so for your chance to win! You may also become a fan of My Handmade Addiction on Facebook for an additional entry. If you have a blog, link to this post for a third entry! Best of luck to all!

Hello Readers,

I'm happy to announce my very first giveaway. The giveaway will run from today through Thursday, September 30th at midnight EST. One winner will be chose at random using http://www.random.org/ on Friday, October 1st, 2010.

Karley Ziegler Mott, owner of LouBird Handmade, donated these lovely floral hair bobbies and matching ring! The gorgeous pink shade is truly seasonless so the lucky winner can wear them year round. Once again, thank you Karley for sharing these hand-crafted pieces with my readers!!!!

You will be entered to win these pretties by doing one or more of the following:

1) Make a comment below.

**Please include your current email address**

Score extra entries by:

2) Becoming a Facebook fan of My Handmade Addiction

3) Linking to this post on your own blog.

♥ Best of luck to all of you ♥

The Dog Ate My Homework....

2010-09-08T10:56:00.000-07:00

I call this "Sophie on Stripes"

Hello all,
I owe you an apology. I hope this doesn't sound like a lame excuse. Let see, since I lasted posted my electricity went out, I traveled for a weekend-long soccer tournament with my family, celebrated Labor Day at our family's annual party and I survived the chaotic preparation for back-to-school.

So... I have NOT been blogging. Bad job, I know! I plan to be back on a more regular basis starting the week on September 13th. I will then be announcing my September giveaway! I think you'll like it :)

Stay tuned!

The most wonderful time of the year.....Autumn!

2010-08-24T13:32:00.000-07:00

There's a distinct chill in the air here today, not that I'm complaining! The temperature is barely edging past the mid 70s. It feels like fall. I just HAVE to share a few autumnal delights I've recently spotted at Capricorn Soap Company. As you can see, they sure have a leg up on the season. Over the weekend these delectable soaps began popping up in their shop.

Petit Noir guest soaps, two 2 ounce bars, $5.75

Limited Edition Cider bath soap features freshly pressed apples,$ 6.75 for 4.5 oz. bar

Harvest bath soap, also a limited edition scent,
contains ground pumpkin rind for exfoliation, $ 6.75 for 4.5 oz. bar

Stroll on over to Capricorn Soap Company and mention that you heard about the shop from Deanna at My Handmade Addiction!

Sales Alert: Moonlight Madness Sale at Nature's Edge Farm on Etsy

2010-08-23T17:52:00.000-07:00

The shopkeeper may have gone "batty" but the deals are steals, well....practically!

Drop by the Moonlight Madness Sale to take advantage of some amazing deals!

Attack of the homegrown tomatoes

2010-08-22T06:34:00.000-07:00

Well, it's that time of year again. Whether you planted them or your dear friends and family did, there's bound to be an abundance of homegrown, red-fleshed yumminess in a garden near you. While we are thankful recipients of these prized beauties, there does come a point when the question of "what the heck are we going to do with all these tomatoes?" does pop into our heads.

My good friend Barb snapped a picture of her beautiful vine-ripening tomato.

One way we like to enjoy them here at our house is paired with a cheese other than usual, boring buffalo mozzarella. Several years ago while scanning the cheese display at our local fruit market I first caught sight of this lesser known, but infinitely more delicious cheese called, ricotta salata. It's a bit like feta in texture and taste though not quite as salty. I slice up some big fat, juicy tomatoes, top each slice with a thin cut of ricotta salata and a little drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a light vinaigrette. I do occasionally add the obligatory leaf of basil, but it's not necessary. The tomato, cheese and oil (or vinaigrette) make a nice little trio of taste and texture all by themselves. Try this combination sometime and thank me later!

Blog mention on Coffee With The Mrs.: Eye Spy ~ "Greenspiration"

2010-08-20T13:25:00.000-07:00

Sweet blogger Amy, "The Mrs." from Coffee with the Mrs., mentioned my blog today! How nice is that? Amy would like me to be her personal shopper. Now that's a job I would LOVE!!!!! Please head over to Amy's blog, Coffee With The Mrs.: Eye Spy ~ "Greenspiration", grab a cup of coffee and peruse her lovely corner of the blogosphere!

Thank you again Amy!!!!

Stylin' with my Etsy finds

2010-08-18T13:53:00.000-07:00

Here I am modeling 2 handmade products I purchased on Etsy that I adore:

Fo' Shizzle My Sprizzle tee from Ellembee, $34 and
Coffee Lover necklace from Artful Goodies, $20
**also take note of my pretty fern that managed to get in the picture**

April from Artful Goodies was kind enough to swap out the silver ballchain and bail for an antique gold finish chain & matching bail! Customization is the norm at most Etsy shops and I love that special perk!

Assignment #1: How safe is your mascara?

2010-08-18T12:40:00.000-07:00

Hello Readers,
I was thinking the other night about how to get you acquainted with Skin Deep's Cosmetic Safety Reviews. I decided to give you an assignment. What better way to learn than by doing? I don't know about you but I HAVE to wear mascara. I have itsy bitsy lashes and mascara makes those that I do have look better. For today's assignment, I'd like each of you to go to http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/, find your mascara rating. Then come back here and post the name of your mascara and it's rating in the comments section. I think you'll be surprised at the scores. I know I was!

image source: treehugger.com

I was feeling a bit smug. I admit it. Unfortuanately, my current mascara, Dr. Hauschka volumizing mascara in black had the shoddy score of 6 out of 10. Keep in mind that a score of zero is the safest rating.

I also use Physician's Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin Mascara in ultra black organics. Unfortunately I couldn't find the rating for that mascara. If you click the link above you can find out more about this mascara as well as view the full listing of ingredients. Now that I'm aware of of Dr. Hauschka's poor rating, I think I'll switch back to Organic Wear mascara again.

One mascara I would like to try soon is 100% Pure ultra lengthening fruit pigmented mascara. The mini size is only $12 but is only offered in the color black tea. This mascara is rated as a 2 on Skin Deep Cosmetic Safety Review.

I look forward to finding out how your mascaras fared!

Cheer Up, Buttercup!

2010-08-17T13:16:00.000-07:00

If this blog is going to be a true reflection of me, then I have to be honest. Honestly, today I'm feeling a bit blue about my guest blog post on Chic & Green. It wasn't EXACTLY how I envisioned it appearing. I'm a bit of a perfectionist. It was NOT perfect. I tried to correct it but I'm still feeling a little down in the dumps. I may have just the remedy for this yucky feeling! Let me know if it cheers you up too!

How in the heck can I not smile when this little lover is waiting to
give me all the puppy kisses I can stand?

The Beautiful Project's card promises better days, Good things will happen card, $4.

Did you know Bergamot essential oil is known to be an uplifting scent? Receiving Capricorn Soap Company's Bergamot~Graperfruit luxury gift collection, $33.75 would certainly boost my spirits!

This sweet 8x10 print, $15 from The Wheatfield is sure to inspire a smile or two!

My favorite season is captured perfectly in this 5x7 print entitled,
Leaf Harvest Road, $15 by Country Dreaming.

A wise friend suggested that if all else fails, there's always chocolate!!!
The Sante Fe Sampler dark chocolate gift box. $24.95
from The Chocolate Smith is sure to melt away my blog worries!

Ooops! Here's what was missing on my Chic & Green guest post

2010-08-17T06:11:00.000-07:00

Being new to blogging, I made a few mistakes when sending Karley my guest post for Chic & Green. Uggggh!!!! You missed out on seeing some of the pretty pictures. I can fix that! Please forgive my rookie mistakes :)

****************************************************************************

I consider myself a handmade addict in general but a handmade soap addict in particular. I think John from Nature's Edge Farm would have to agree! He recently referred to me as a "connoisseur of scents". I think that's his polite way of saying I'm a "soap hoarder"! Eh, what the heck, it's true. I have a quite a substantial stash of soap!

Beehive Yourself is palm oil free. It contains locally sourced honey and is pleasantly

scented with lemongrass essential oil, $4 from Nature's Edge Farm

Also from Nature's Edge Farm,watermelon herb granita

foaming sugar scrub sounds perfect for late summer, $11 for 12 oz. jar

When I want to give a special baby shower gift, Michigan-based Peanut Tree Designs is the shop I consitently turn to for baby blankets that both beautiful and functional.

Poppies chenille and flannel baby blanket reminds me of a midsummer's day, 36x36, $32

Another Michigan shop, ellembee, sells sumptious screenprinted tees in a variety of chic patterns.

I'm the proud owner of this Vintage Damask tee, $32

I'd **like** be the owner of a Burnout Blues tee, $34

Sorry once again for the flubs!

Have a wonderful day,

Deanna

Extra, Extra, Read All About It!

2010-08-15T14:40:00.000-07:00

Catch an EXTRA dose of musings from my greenish life this week!

On Tuesday, August 17th at 8:00 AM, I will "appear" as a guest blogger on Chic & Green! This is a such an honor for me!

Back in July 2007, Karley Ziegler Mott began writing Chic & Green and has garnered much acclaim in those 3 years. C&G is now, " an official MSNBC Going Green Network Blog and a TODAY Show blog"! No doubt, much of her following comes from her journalistic style of "sticking to the facts" as well as her personal dedication to sharing her honest opinion on controversial issues.

I invite you to head over to Chic & Green on Tuesday to read my guest post. While you're there, peruse some of Karley's earlier posts. You'll find a mix of informative and entertaining writing on a wide variety of subjects! Oh, and one more thing, PLEASE comment while you're there to show your support of me and my new venture in the blogosphere!

Ruff night! Rx: COFFEE!

2010-08-12T14:24:00.000-07:00

Last night was a little (pardon the pun) "ruff"! Our new puppy, Sophie, didn't sleep very soundly so neither did I! I seem to have a precoccupation with coffee today so I did a bit of browsing over at Etsy and this is what I found. Enjoy!

My Polka Dot Pottery's turquoise & brown travel cup, $24,

is a pretty alternative to the typical, boring plastic travel mugs out there.

Another departure from the usual, I adore the simple pattern on this

mid-century fat lava coffee carafe , $38 from Smash Up Vintage.

Nature's Edge Farm makes this delicious, mildly

spicy soap scented with essential oils

of coffee, cinnamon. clove, benzoin & orange.

A perfect soap to have at your kitchen sink

or anytime you're in the mood for a caffeine-free bath indulgence.

Mayan Spice Soap , $4

Fogl's Kitchen cooks up several of yummy treats to pair with coffee. Shop owner, Shannon, says

her almond biscotti ($7.99 per dozen) and homemade organic pink watermelon jelly ($6 for 8 oz. jar)are a match made in heaven. Oh how I'd like to put my taste buds to that test!

Pour me a cup of coffee 8x10 print, $7.80 from Winterberry Cottage

would look fabulous hanging in either a kitchen or a home office.

Correction: hanging in MY home office!

Coffee lover resin necklace, $20 from Artful Goodies features a neutral
coffee-stained color as well as lovely vintage graphics.

A cute way to let everyone know you life your live properly caffeinated!

♥♥♥SALE ALERT: Artful Goodies will be offering a BOGO half off sale for
one day only: 8/13/10. Please see click link to Artful Goodies for further details!♥♥♥

Puppy love

2010-08-11T03:36:00.000-07:00

Later today we'll be bringing our new puppy, Sophie, home! In honor of this special day, I've picked out some fun Etsy items to share with you.

Pup cup from thelab shop is too darned cute, $7

Thecopperpoppy's Chloe pet ID tag really caught my eye.

It keeps selling out so I'm not alone in fancying this unique tag,

perfectly sized for a puppy. 3/4 inch tag, $11.25

I just love colors of this pretty fabric collar

from collarsbydesign , $16

Teetugs sells these tug toys made from

100 % recycled cotton Tshirts, $7.

Green fun for the pup.... too cool!

When Sophie gets a bit bigger, I'd like to buy her some of these

organic, vegetarian broccoli bones from

Shortysgourmettreats, $5 for 5 oz. container

I ♥ mail!

2010-08-06T13:33:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon readers,
I'm hiding in my office sneeking some computer time to share with you what came in today's mail! Look at these lovely Etsy products....

This buttery soft c'est la vie ("such is life") tee from neenacreates is a gorgeous shade of blue. Currently selling for $24 though I scored it for a mere $15 duirng a Christmas in July sale! I LOVE a bargain!

La Tour Eiffel necklace, $22 from loubirdhandmade is so versatile with it's beautiful mix of metals. The sweet shop owner, Karley, kindly customized my necklace by swapping out the peach rose with a cream-colored beauty! Yet another reason why I ♥ handmade!

PLEASE READ: {interview with stacy malkan}

2010-08-04T17:41:00.000-07:00

Good evening readers,
I want to share with you the enlightening interview veteran blogger, Karley Ziegler Mott, posted on her website Chic & Green earlier today. I touched very briefly on a few of these points in Tuesday's posting about being an informed consumer of health and beauty products. Karley had the honor of interviewing one of the co-founders of The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. I strongly encourage you to read her concise yet thorough post, {interview with stacy malkan}.

Blueberries on the brain

2010-08-04T03:46:00.000-07:00

As I sit drinking my morning coffee, my mind drifted to the pint of blueberries in the fridge. I think I'll have some on top of my vanilla yogurt for breakfast. Enjoy this blueberry feast for the eyes, courtesy of Etsy...

I can attest to the delectable scent of this fabulous

fresh blueberry organic sugar scrub from naturesedgefarm $10 for 8 oz. jar

FriendlyPairings Blueberries and Cream necklace is so pretty, $26

Vintage German glass statement ring from WiredWhimsy, $13.50

AppleWarePottery's blueberry berry bowl strainer caught my eye, $39.50

Canvas bag with vintage style advertising graphic from WilsonGraphics, $20

Be an informed consumer of health and beauty products

2010-08-03T06:05:00.000-07:00

As I continue my own journey toward cleaner living, I find cosmeticsdatabase to be an excellent resource. For those of you unfamiliar with it, the rating scale is from 0 to 10 with 0 being the least hazardous to your health. I invite you to search some of your current health and beauty products. A word of warning, products that you **think** are safe and "natural" may not be. Try not to "freak out"! If you do choose to transition to safer products, do so at a manageable pace! And by all means, don't throw all your products in the garbage or down the drain. In September I'll discuss the way to properly dispose of unused beauty products and medications. At this moment, I have a whole collection of said products that need to go to their final resting place.

Birthday week madness

2010-08-03T04:42:00.000-07:00

Good Morning,

This is going to be one busy week at our house! Our baby boy turns 9 on Friday, August 6th. Between parties for friends and family, we'll spend 3 days of this week celebrating him! Gee whiz, is this kid a VIP or what? As a result of all this party planning, my postings this week won't be very lengthy. I have **some** of the party prep done but plenty more to tackle....wish me luck! As Arnold would say, "I'll be back"! :)

Mission statement...of sorts

2010-08-02T08:01:00.000-07:00

It occurred to me that I should explain just why I want to start blogging. I truly have a passion for handmade, American goods. The venue I primarily buy these items from is a website called Etsy. It saddens and sickens me to see how many products are made in China and other countries rather than in the USA! Buying handmade supports artisans in OUR country! In my opinion, it is much more meaningful to give a handmade item as opposed to a mass produced one that was purchased in a big box store. Now don't get me wrong here. I absolutely buy products from the big box stores as too. When I'm buying a gift or something special for myself or my friends and family, I PREFER to buy handmade! Because I respect and value what certain Etsy artisans do for a living, I want to highlight them here on my blog. Plus, I just enjoy sharing cute things with people! Some of the shops I ♥ have already approached me to sponsor some very cool giveaways for my readers.

On a greenish note, I've been concerned for several years about the impact the ingredients found in our food, medications, beauty and personal care products have on our health. I want to share with you what I've learned and would LOVE for you to share your knowledge with me as well.

On a personal note, I've been doing much soul searching as of late. I've come to realize the "slump" I've been in (for far too long) has to do with not having an outlet for my creativity! I've been going through the motions of life. Plodding along but not really being excited about much. I finally see how this hum drum existence really does affect my family too! Blahness is not fun to be around! So, after much thought, I decided that writing this blog would be creative outlet for ME! Creativity begets passion (and vice versa), passion begets energy and energy gets things done. Sounds like a win win situation!

Drum roll please.....

2010-08-02T04:40:00.000-07:00

Last week I slowly started sharing my big SECRET about writing this blog. A few of you asked "what's the deal with the secrecy"? It was mainly because I'm still a bit insecure about this whole blog writing "thing". I'm getting over that though! "I can do this, I can do this"! Oops, that wasn't supposed to be in print! :)

Ok, on to the good stuff. I neglected to mention that I'll be hosting GIVEAWAYS here!!!! So sorry about that omission! I have 2 Etsy shops that have offered to sponsor giveaways in the coming months here! There are 2 additional shops that I **think** will be on board too but I haven't formally asked them. I hope you're as excited as I am!

More later folks. I have to finish my morning coffee now. I have priorities, ya know! :)

Jumping In

2010-07-28T17:30:00.000-07:00

Well now let's see.... it only took me 9 months and 20 days to finally take the plunge into the mysterious waters of the blogosphere! For an Aries who has a difficult time finishing what she started, I'm pretty amazed with myself. I can't take ALL of the credit. Some very sweet people have been my personal cheerleaders. You know who you are and I hope you know just how much I appreciate you shaking your symbolic pom poms for me! I'm really having so much fun thinking about all the potential subjects to blog about. The nerd in me even bought a notebook dedicated to bloggy ideas!

Muah to all of you! Good evening and stop back real soon for a dose of what's going on in my greenish life! :)

I think I can, I think I can

2009-10-08T11:57:00.000-07:00

Trying new things is good right? I know everyone and their brother has a blog. Why would I want to create one? Who would want to read it? Good questions. Most people assume what they have to say is interesting. I'm a bit more realistic. I think what I have to say will be interesting to some people but not all people!

Today is my first attempt at posting to my blog but I'm not entirely sure when I'll set my blog to debut! I have to admit, I'm kinda excited to try something different!

I'll be back