Is Spring Really In the Air?

Hey I know my last post, only 3 days ago, was about me enjoying winter but really I am 'normal' - I still do wish for spring! I'm just trying to live in the moment, you know, enjoy each day as it's presented. Well, I have noticed that, even as I sit here wrapped in my grey sweater and warm socks are covering my toes, my thoughts are turning to spring and warmer weather. Without even realizing, in my designs this week I've been choosing lighter and brighter beads. Pinks and purples that could easily be seen as Easter colours and blues that reflect the bright sky and ocean, no not the cold ocean of our Atlantic provinces but more like the Caribbean Sea as it wraps itself around the tropical islands.


These earrings are called "Fresh Breeze" and really aren't they refreshing - like a breath of fresh air. So pretty and delicate and I love the pale sky blue glass beads!



Ok, I know we still have a ways to go before we say goodbye to winter but did you know it's only 45 days until we turn the clocks forward and 58 days until the first day of spring! Now that's a refreshing thought!

Winter Wonderland

I know, we all like to complain about winter. It's too cold, it's snowy, the roads are icy. I do it myself and there are some days in winter when all I can think about is seeing the first signs of spring. Winter weather can make it difficult to get around and it can make us late in our busy lives and hurt our backs when we have to shovel it. Sometimes the short days and the long winter's can really get to you.

Sometimes though, it's simply beautiful. Yesterday was one of those days. It snowed all day, it had warmed up from the deep freeze of last week and we had no where in particular to be. A perfect combination to enjoy a winter day and evening. It was already dark out but my youngest was still outside making snow angels in the snow.

A little bit of heaven in a long winter.

Who doesn't look good in candlelight?

Soft pinks, pale amethyst and champagne coloured beads have been my inspiration this new year. These beads are gorgeous. Subtle and shimmery as if you were enjoying a candlelight dinner. This necklace is soft and pretty and oh so feminine. {sigh}

Happy New Year!

May the new year bring you

joy and peace.

Happy 2009!

A Rug to Warm your Soles (and Paws)!

Last week I was lucky enough to receive my rug from fiveforty. It's a gorgeous mixture of blues, greens and even some purple. It's so well made and cushy under your feet, it's just a delight for bare toes to step on. Pegg does such gorgeous work and I appreciate all the time and thought that goes into creating a rug like this.

I tried it in our kitchen first and I had no sooner placed it on the floor and our dog Mabel was over to inspect. Next thing I knew she was lying down on it. I think she thought she had received the most wonderful early Christmas present. I was thinking more along the lines of a few dog treats and a long walk but hey, I guess she felt this year was her year for an upgrade!

The next day I was moving 'my' rug around the house to find the perfect spot and guess who I had running around my feet and jumping up and down!

In the spirit of Christmas I'm willing to share 'my' rug - but does this look like a dog who shares the same thought?!!

Super Duper Secret Santa

A group of Canadian Etsians are participating in a Secret Santa exchange this Christmas. Since this was my first Christmas at Etsy it was also my first exchange. I must say I had so much fun putting my goodies together. I hope she likes it! (Though I did it so secretively she might never know it's from me!!)

I had the loveliest package arrive this week. It was my Secret Santa package and it was from Jenn of CrazyBliss. Jenn is an incredibly talented artist. I loved her shop the minute I set eyes on it. In fact she was one of the first shops I bought from when I joined Etsy. I just love the expression she puts on her cats and people and I love the vivid colours that she uses. I had previously asked about having her do a custom painting of our dog and look what Jenn sent me as my gift.




I just can't believe it. How thoughtful. How generous. How Jenn!

My package included:

• a 5 x7 original art work of my dog Mabel. So cute!
• 2 prints of Mabel for both my daughters- so thoughtful!
• 2 sets of bubble bliss magnets - love them!
• 2 adorable cat magnets and,
• a set of sweet note cards.

Wow! I know I'm a lucky girl.

I'm so glad I met Jenn on the Canadian forum and so many other talented Etsians that I'm happy to call my friends. As new as on-line friends are for me you have all become a meaningful part of my daily life. You helped me get started as a 'newbie', you've supported me through the ups and the downs and you have most certainly made me laugh. Thank you!

Merry Christmas everyone! Here's to a very happy new year for all!

Profiles: Handmade Design

I'm very excited to introduce you to a brand new zine Profiles created by two multi-talented women, Maggie Krawczyk the sole proprietor of Neogami Origami Jewellery and Cassandra Ellen Morgan a graphic designer with a portfolio loaded with editorial and print work.

Maggie and Cassandra say it best when describing their new venture, "Profiles will provide an informative glimpse into the world of hand made design. We will highlight the newest trends, hottest boutiques and designers with products that are unique and (especially) local to the GTA. From Artisan to starving artist, Profiles will uncover the passion and motivation that keeps these designers making the goodies we love".

Take a look at my own Wallis Design profile.

I'm thrilled to be a part of this project and proud to be included with these talented artists. Check out the Artisan Profiles.

Cheers! to Maggie and Cassandra. I wish you a very happy and successful new year!