Little B Bunny

Featured Seller - Pretty and Personal Papers by Tricia 16

2010-06-11T10:44:00.000-07:00

Tricia of "Pretty and Personal Papers" has been selling on etsy for almost a year. She started out selling monogrammed notecards, like the one below, and the business expanded from there.

Tricia had been making the cards to give as gifts at birthday parties and wedding and baby showers. She was approached at a shower and asked to make a custom set. Hesitant at first because she really enjoyed making the cards for gifts, Tricia took the order, as well as the advice that she start selling them to others.

Tricia's favorite items are her journals, such as the one below. She leans toward bright colors and uniquely patterned papers.

The idea for these journals came from her own experience with making a little notebook to write down the funny things her kids said or did. Tricia was always telling friends or family about her kids and someone told her she should start writing her anecdotes down. After writing a few stories, she made up a little journal titled "the funny things you say and do" and started writing in it for her own kids. Her first one started as a boring journal found at a local craft store that she decided to bling out. Now they are completely handmade. The journals are her most popular item. Tricia especially loves working with moms on their journals to make them fit the children's interests and personalities.

Tricia belongs to the Etsy Greetings Street Team and Busy Moms Street Team. She advises that those new to etsy join a street team, as she has found them to be amazing and helpful, supportive and knowledgeable.

Items of the Week - Baby Girl

2010-06-03T08:11:00.000-07:00

Items of the Week

Dear Dad

2010-06-02T06:14:00.000-07:00

I've just curated a couple of Father's Day treasuries on etsy's Treasury East and Treasury West. Here's a sneak peek. Click on the links to view the entire collections.

Thanks Dad

Dear Dad

Summer, Summer, Summer Time

2010-05-25T19:18:00.000-07:00

Tim, Brennan and I just returned from a wonderful trip to our old stomping grounds in Atlanta, GA. We stayed with old friends, Louis and Kathy Cahill. They are gracious hosts, so kind and accommodating. They also happen to be incredibly talented. Louis is a professional photographer. (Click on the link to view some of his photos.) However, he is also REALLY into fly fishing and makes his own rods. He also renovates houses. Seriously. I don't know how he does it. Kathy is an amazing graphic designer with a love for animals. She rehabs squirrels and used to work with elephants at the zoo. Oh, and she makes soap and cooks all sorts of yummy veggie food. There's more. They do so much more. Tim and I have named them the official most annoying couple on the planet! We love them, but they've got to give us a break. They're really making us look bad!

Anyway, while we were down in Atlanta, we visited the GA Aquarium. Amazing! The pictures I have don't do it justice. We also took Brennan to the zoo in Grant Park and the Botanical Garden. Both were lots of fun, but we about roasted at the gardens. It was worth it though. That's how much I love plants. I am willing to suffer sunburn and exhaustion to see as much plant life as possible. Of course, we also ate a bunch of amazing food. We tried Ethiopian food for the first time and love, love, loved it. LB liked it as well (whew!). The restaurant doesn't have a website, but it's called Bahel and is located on Briarcliff. We also had yummy falafel at Marco's on Ponce, Indian at Zyka on Scott Blvd. in Decatur and Chinese at Green Sprout on Piedmont (Try the Empire "chicken."). And then there was our old friend Veggieland. I can't say enough good things about this place. The food is so good. The service is wonderful. And, unbelievably, the place is cheap! Yay for Veggieland! If you're ever in Atlanta, you must, must, must try their veggie burger with avocado.

Being back in Atlanta made me miss big city living, but I haven't packed my bags yet. I think it will pass. I didn't care for that life when in any of the larger cities where we've lived (except for maybe NYC, but I'm not wealthy, so scratch that). I do love Louisville and I figure we'll be calling it home for at least a few more years.

It was super hot in Atlanta on Sunday. It really felt like a Southern summer day. When I returned from the trip and realized I had some treasuries to update on Treasury East, I felt inspired to curate an Etsy Greetings Team treasury dedicated to the summer (hence the title of this post). Here's a taste. Click on the link to view the entire treasury.

Items of the Week - in Purple

2010-05-15T05:30:00.001-07:00

Here are some of my current faves on etsy. They all also happen to be purple. Click on the link to view the entire treasury.

View treasury.

What Do Vegans Eat? Food that Rocks!

2010-05-14T07:05:00.000-07:00

I made a couple of recipes from "Vegan with a Vengeance" this week that I've never made before. This is an awesome cookbook from the Post-Punk Kitchen founder Isa Chandra Moskowitz. This isn't a cookbook that requires you to buy a bunch of obscure and expensive ingredients. It's full of simple, economical, and, so far, delicious recipes. I neglected to take pictures of the food before we ate it. You'll just have to take me at my word when I say they looked delicious as well. Here are the recipes. Let me know if you try either.

Apple Pie-Crumb Cake Muffins

for muffins:
1 and 1/2 c flour
1/4 c plus 2 T sugar
1 t baking powder
1 t baking soda
1 t ground cinnamon
1/2 t ground allspice
1/8 t ground cloves
1/4 t salt
3/4 c apple cider
1/3 c canola oil
1 t vanilla extract
1/2 c grated apple
1/2 c chopped apple (1/4-inch pieces)

for topping:
1/4 c all-purpose flour
1/4 c brown sugar
1/2 t ground cinnamon
1/4 t ground allspice
pinch of salt
3 T canola oil

Prepare the topping by mixing all of the dry topping ingredients together in a small bowl. Drizzle the oil in while mixing with your fingertips until crumbs form. Set aside.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F, lightly grease a twelve-muffin tin.

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt. Create a well in the center and add the apple cider, oil, and vanilla. Mix, then fold in the grated and chopped apple.

Fill each muffin cup two-thirds full. Sprinkle the crumb topping over each muffin. Bake for 22 minutes.

Tempeh Reuben Makes four sandwiches.

8 slices good, dark pumpernickel bread
8 t nonhydrogenated margarine
1 and 1/2 c sauerkraut
2 dill pickles, thinly sliced
1 avocado, cut in half lengthwise and sliced into 1/4-inch slices
1 pound tempeh, cut into four equal pieces, then cut through the middle so that you have eight thin squares

for the marinade:
1/2 c white cooking wine
2 T olive oil
2 T balsamic vinegar
2 T Bragg Liquid Aminos or tamari
2 T fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, smashed

for the dressing:
1/3 c Vegannaise
2 T ketchup
Juice of 1 lemon
1 T minced onion
3 t capers
2 T sweet pickle relish (or equivalent amount chopped pickles)
a pinch of cayenne

Prepare the tempeh:
Combine all the ingredients for the marinade. Add the tempeh and marinate for at least one hour, turning once.

Mix together all the dressing ingredients and set aside.

When the tempeh has marinated for an hour, preheat a grill pan over high heat. Cook the slices on the grill for 4 minutes on one side, until dark grill lines have appeared, then use tongs to flip them over and cook on the other side for about 3 minutes.

Prepare the sandwich:

Spread a teaspoon of margarine on each piece of bread. Heat a large skillet over moderate heat. Fry each piece of bread on the buttered side for 3 minutes, flip over and cook one minute more.

Divide the ingredients equally among four buttered-side-down fried bread slices. Smother in dressing, top each serving with another slice of fried bread, nonbuttered side down, cut in half, and serve.

etsy Greetings on Treasury East

2010-05-13T18:22:00.001-07:00

I changed up my etsygreetingsteam treasury today. The theme is "love" because, as one seller put it, love needs no season. Here's a preview. Click the link to view the entire treasury.

Love, Love, Love

Giveaway at Adore by Nat

2010-05-13T10:25:00.000-07:00

Adore by Nat is having a giveaway this week. It's a $20.00 gift certificate to etsy shop Tiny Made. Gorgeous clothes! Click on the links to view the blog giveaway entry and the Tiny Made shop.

Blog Candy at Killam Creative

2010-05-13T04:32:00.000-07:00

Susan at Killam Creative is giving away a ton of stuff in honor of her birthday. There's a preview pic below. Check out the link for details and to view her blog. She's assembling a community of crafters who love to share new ideas.

New Arrivals

2010-05-12T16:52:00.000-07:00

I finally listed some new items in the shop! Yay, me! I've posted them below. Also, don't forget that I currently have a HUGE sale section. Be sure to visit the shop and check it out.

Flora $4.50 (includes free domestic shipping)

Bird $4.50 (includes free domestic shipping)

Flowers $4.50 (includes free domestic shipping)

Welcome $4.50 (includes free domestic shipping)

Featured Seller - Isabellaflora Greeting Cards

2010-05-11T15:15:00.000-07:00

Today's featured seller, Isabellaflora, is a collaborative effort between a father and daughter. He handles the photography and she the watercolor painting. They are (obviously) inspired by botanicals and produce many beautiful handmade cards for their etsy shop. I recently sent a few questions to Eve and found some favorites from her shop. Please be sure to go check out the remaining items!

What inspires you?

My inspiration comes from flowers, leaves, trees and all things botanical. Both my Father and I love the beauty and textures that our green world presents to us.

Water Dance Card $4.00

How did you get started paper crafting?

Actually, my girlfriend suggested I start painting about 3 years ago. I immediately knew it would be water colors, as I am so drawn to that medium. My father started with photography in 1928, so he has had a lifetime with his hobby. I decided that greeting cards would be a fantastic way to share our art with everyone.

Purple Passion Card $4.00

What are your favorite colors and materials?

Favorite colors...that's a tough one...perhaps blues, green and purples. Favorite materials...the gorgeous way those watercolor paints just ooze and mingle and then create a life of their own.

Sunflower Card $4.00

What prompted you to open an etsy shop?

My girlfriend showed me the Etsy site and I decided to take the plunge. It's such a big venue with exposure around the world.

Rose of Sharon Card $4.00

Do you have any advice for your fellow etsians?

Advice for others: Join esty teams that unite like-minded crafters and artists. I have learned so much from esty greetings team. Advice for newbies: Give etsy a try. What is there to lose?

Columbine Card $4.00

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-08T06:19:00.000-07:00

Per my request, my husband took me plant shopping for Mother's Day. I wanted to go early and get them planted before the big day, so I could relax on the deck and admire the plants on Sunday afternoon. Here are some of the new arrivals, as well as some oldies that are in bloom. The hosta and fern garden is really filling out. The perennial bed on the terrace is looking really wild, just as I like it! Also, I couldn't resist putting in a pic or two of my baby girl's first trip to the dentist. Happy Mother's Day all!

hostas:

low-growing yarrow:

stevia:

lemon thyme:

I can't remember the name of this one:

perennial geranium:

iris:

My baby's first dental appointment:

Brennan was such a big girl! She was calm the entire time. The dentist said she did better than many grownups. I'm a proud mama.

Items of the Week

2010-05-07T07:39:00.001-07:00

Here's a sneak peek of my latest "Items of the Week" treasury on etsy. Click the link here: "Items of the Week" to view the entire treasury. It was inspired by the greens of spring.

Mother's Day Gift Guide 2010

2010-04-29T08:12:00.000-07:00

While I just curated a treasury of gift ideas for moms, I couldn't resist putting together an additional gift guide for the blog. There are so many amazing things available on etsy! I know, I sound like a commercial. I need help! Here are some cool gift ideas. I'd love to give or receive any of them!

Mom's Handwritten Recipe on a Platter by Custom Sepia on etsy

$45.00

Mom's Are Geeks Too Card by Gibberish on etsy

$4.00

Flowers in Spring by Luiza Vizoli on etsy

$125.00

The Four Seasons Appetizer Plates by Mary Wibis on etsy

$38.00

Two 6-Piece Vegan Macaroons by The Greenwood Kitchen and Bake Shop on etsy

$6.75

Little Bird Necklace in Silver by Lulu Bug Jewelry on etsy

$34.00

Spring in the Garden

2010-04-27T18:57:00.000-07:00

If you follow me on Facebook, you've probably seen my garden picks. Yet, I couldn't resist sharing them with the rest of you. My perennial garden looks awesome! It's all wild and tangled, just the way I like it. The ferns and hostas are coming in on the other side of the garden in the shade. The herb garden, however, needs some TLC. As soon as I get to it, I'll post some pics. I also have some new raised beds that Tim and my father-in-law built for me in the side yard. I am excited to be growing some actual food this year. Right now I have broccoli, brussels sprouts, kale, onions, bib lettuce and romaine lettuce. I'll be adding tomatoes, cucumbers, squash and beans as it gets warmer.

Guess Who's Back? Back Again?

2010-04-27T18:43:00.000-07:00

I should emphasize the "again." I know I have been terrible about keeping up with the blog (and with my shop, if I'm going to go all out and be honest with myself). But, I'm back, and I have some big plans for getting the blog and the shop back in gear. Stay tuned.

Etsy has a new treasury site called "Treasury East." It's a really neat idea. Anyone can make a treasury any time. The treasuries stay up until you remove them. And, etsians can post as many treasuries as they like. I made my first about a week ago for Mother's Day. Click on the previous link to view the entire treasury. The pic is just a preview.

Today I completed my second treasury on the new "East" site. I have plans to do a weekly "picks" or "finds" treasury of my current etsy faves. Here's a preview of the test run. Click the link for the full view.

Featured Seller - Vive La France Design

2010-03-16T07:38:00.000-07:00

Kara of "Vive La France Designs" is a fellow team member on the etsy greetings team. She is a graphic designer and artist who enjoys paper-crafting as well. She recently answered a few questions about her experiences as an etsy shop owner and motivations as an artist. Please check out the examples of her work after the interview, and be sure to visit her shop for more great work.

What inspires you?

Nature... the colors and the way lighting affects the colors. I'd have to give my husband some credit too. My love notes are all inspired in some way by my husband, be it creating the perfect card for him or something from a conversation. He's always calling me tenacious--for a variety of reasons.

What are your favorite colors/materials?

Blue has always been my favorite color - in any shade, but I love color in general. I love painting in oils and the diversity it allows in blending and textures. I hope this translates in my art-print notecards. I also love the feel of Japanese paper. It is so thin, but strong and tactile.

How did you get started papercrafting?

I've always loved paper and making cards. I would make my mom cards and leave them under her pillow. Then in college, I took a calligraphy class. It was the first time I made an accordion-fold book. I illustrated my quote with watercolor illustrations and I was hooked. I also started making books using Japanese binding.

What prompted you to open an etsy shop?

I have been painting since I was seven and have a BA in Graphic Design -- I love combining art and design. I really enjoy the hands-on part. I found etsy about a year ago, but flip-flopped because of my health. I have a rare pituitary disease that was elusive for a decade and took away everything that made me me --except my creativity. So anytime I could muster up the energy I would work on a painting or a freelance design project. It eventually led to making scrapbooks for people. Then I had lots of paper......paper makes me happy! So I started making cards again. (I had been making watercolors cards and selling them at local craft fairs but lost interest). I had a pituitary tumor removed 3 years ago on April 19th, and it took a full 2 years to feel any better which = a bit more energy to work on my art. So I finally opened an etsy shop.

Do you sell outside of etsy? If so, where?

I sell a custom line of baby cards, tiny gift cards and thank you sets at 'Addison Marie, A Baby Boutique' in Albquerque, NM,
and I will have my art print notecards and handmade cards at a new brick and mortar shop, 'Queen City Emporium'
in Springfield, MO which is opening in late March.

What advice do you have for other etsy sellers?

Try. You never know what will happen. As for etsy, be a buyer as well as a seller. It makes you trustworthy and part of a community.

Here are a few of my favorites from Kara's shop:

8 Blue Baby Thank Yous by Vive La France on etsy

Torrid Love Note by Vive La France on etsy

Friendship Quote Notecard by Vive La France on etsy

Go Green in March!

2010-03-01T19:50:00.000-08:00

Since March's color is green I thought it would make sense to have an eco-friendly gift guide to start off the month. Get it? Green...eco-friendly. Just kidding, I know it's obvious. There are a ton of awesome eco-friendly sellers and items on etsy, but s few in particular caught my eye. Be sure to check out the shops for more green items, and go green in March!

9.5 x 8 inch Junkmail Paper by White Dragon Paper
Made from 100% recycled papers with no added chemicals. The listing is for a set of ten.

Wooden Baby Rattle in Walnut and Purpleheart by The Wood Garden
All of The Wood Garden's toys are made from wood from sustainably harvested hardwood trees. They never use paints, dyes or stains.

Recycled Boylan's Soda Bottle Glasses by Yava Glass
All of Yava Glass's items are made from recycled bottles. They only order bottles when they receive orders to further reduce waste.

Pear and Pearl Mod Lucite Hoop Earrings by Glamourpuss Creations
Each piece of jewelry in Glamourpuss's shop is handcrafted from authentic, uncirculated vintage components. Vintage is the new green!

Headline News Reusable Sandwich Baggie by Bells and Unicorns
This resuable bag with waterproof lining will keep all of those plastic sandwich bags out of the landfills!

Christmas in February

2010-02-18T06:35:00.000-08:00

While uploading some pics of new etsy listings the other day, I came across some Christmas pictures that I had never seen. They were on a card we hadn't uploaded to iPhoto. Woohoo! I love discovering new photos.I thought I'd share some of the cuteness of my daughter and nieces, as well as a shot of a special gift. I made my first afghan, made from Granny Squares, in 2009 and gifted it to my newest niece, Lil, for Christmas. I love giving handmade gifts!

Featured Seller - Just Because Art and Greeting Cards

2010-02-16T07:20:00.001-08:00

This week's featured seller from etsy is Jaleh from "Just Because Art and Greeting Cards." This Seattle artist's love of poetry allows her to share her experiences through drawings, cards, and paintings. She also has her own small alterations and dress-making shop, and does graphic design work during her off hours. Whew! I don't know how she finds the time for it all. A brief interview with the artist follows, as well as some of my faves from her shop. Be sure to visit etsy and "heart" her for future shopping trips!

What inspires you?

I find inspiration in colors, especially in the natural world. And in things around me, such as photos, paper, love, friends, words, or a story I hear. I also love computer graphic design.

What do you like most about running your own business?

I am blessed and honored to do what I love in my free time after work!

What is your least favorite part of the creative process?

Sketching and thinking about the color and words for what I have in my mind.

What prompted you to open an etsy shop?

All of my friends and family love my art .

What is the best piece of advice you have received from another etsy seller?

Display and impart the great value of your truly specialized, handmade products to potential buyers. I believe that valuing your product enhances your reputation.

Yummy Vegan Food

2010-02-13T08:04:00.000-08:00

I tried a new recipe the other night that I would like to share with you. The pic is a little steamy. For some reason, I thought it would be a good idea to take the shot before I plated the food. Sorry. I think you can still get an idea of how yummy this looks though. I think this is a dish that non-vegans would enjoy as much as we vegans do. It's from the latest issue of Vegetarian Times (February).

Stir-Fried Shitake Mushrooms with Tofu and Bok Choy
Serves 4

1 t cornstarch
2 T low-sodium soy sauce
2 t minced fresh ginger
2 t Thai chile sauce, such as sriracha
2 cloves garlic, minced (2 t)
1 t sesame oil
3 T canola oil, divided
1 14-oz. Package extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized cubes
1 lb. bok choy, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
2 cups sliced fresh shitake mushrooms (I used a wild mushroom mix.)

1. Whisk together cornstarch and 1 t water in bowl. Whisk in soy sauce, ginger, chile sauce, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Heat 1 T canola oil in large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry tofu 7 minutes, or until golden brown; transfer to plate. Add 1 T oil to pan. Stir-fry bok choy 4 minutes; transfer to plate.
3. Add remaining 1 T oil to pan. Stir-fry mushrooms 2 minutes, or until tender. Return tofu and bok choy to pan. Stir in soy sauce mixture, and stir-fry 1 minute, or until hot.

Little b Bunny on Etsy

2010-02-12T07:16:00.000-08:00

I have been largely, woefully absent from etsy recently. Until yesterday, I hadn't listed anything new since December. I know, I know, I'm negligent. This week I got busy and made a few things. I've currently got three new items in the shop, several more ready to be photographed and a scrapbook/album in the works. There are also A LOT of sale items in the shop right now. Here are the most current listings:

"I love you" by Little b Bunny on etsy

"Purple" by Little b Bunny on etsy

"Stripe" by Little b Bunny on etsy

First Haircut

2010-02-10T14:07:00.000-08:00

Yes, Brennan is three years old. Yes, she just got her first haircut. Her father didn't even want it cut this soon. I told him she was starting to look like Crystal Gayle, and we really had no choice. We took her to the person who has been cutting my hair off and on for over 20 years. Yes, I said 20 years. His name is Lindsey Harrison and he has owned shops all over Huntington, WV. When I lived in the area, he cut my hair. After I moved away, I would have him cut it when I came home for visits. I had other stylists in whatever city I was currently living, but I always trusted him the most with my hair. Well, maybe not always. In the sixth grade he cut my bangs too short and did something weird to make it look like I had a mullet. When I was in the eighth grade I had HUGE hair and he had a hand in that. However, big hair was in at the time. In fact, he made my hair even bigger using hair extensions, after which I starred in a commercial for his shop. Extensions were the new thing and I thought I was so cool. So, he was a natural choice for Brennan's first cut, as long as he didn't whip out the fake hair.

Brennan was really calm the entire time. She stared at Lindsey as though she didn't trust him one bit, but she didn't cry or fuss. I have heard of children being terrified, so I was relieved. After he cut her hair, I think he decided to take a walk down memory lane. He gave my baby big hair. It was different from what I had in the day. There was no Aqua Net and no wall of teased bangs. Actually, she looked like she was getting ready for a pageant. It was really cute to see her all curled for a day. And, of course, she thought it was wonderful and got on us any time we got near her "curlers."

Love.

2010-02-05T13:18:00.000-08:00

A few of my February favorites. All were found on etsy using the search term "love."

Forever. Handmade by Stamped in Metal.

I Love Books. Handmade by Kukubee.

Thank You. Handmade by Artsy Nikki Design Studio.

If You Love Me. Handmade by So She Sews.

Feeling the Rhythm. Handmade by Itsy Bitsy Spill.

Love Birds. Handmade by One Reverie.

Should I Be Making Cookies?

2010-01-22T10:32:00.001-08:00

Nope, I shouldn't. Did I make cookies? Why, yes, I did. Should I be eating said cookies? Again, no. Am I eating cookies? Not at this very minute, but I feel a craving coming on....

I received a Borders gift card for Christmas and happily spent a portion of it on Isa's and Terry's (as in the Isa and Terry who wrote "Veganomicon" and "Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World") new cookbook, "Vegan Cookies Invade Your Cookie Jar." The first battle of the invasion began yesterday when I made one of the most basic cookies one can make, chocolate chip cookies. It is one of the most common cookies, I know, but also one of the most difficult to find as a vegan. Oh, they're out there, but they are flat, or too crunchy, or too oily or too funny looking. You get the picture. I've made vegan chocolate chip cookies in the past, but it has never been this easy or this perfect! I highly recommend this recipe.

Chocolate Chip Cookies - makes 2 dozen 2-inch cookies

1/2 c brown sugar
1/4 c white sugar
2/3 c canola oil
1/4 c unsweetened almond milk (or your favorite nondairy milk)
1 T tapioca flour (I just used cornstarch.)
2 t pure vanilla extract
1 and 1/2 c all-purpose flour
1/2 t baking soda
1/2 t salt
3/4 c chocolate chips

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease two large baking sheets.
2. Combine sugars, oil, almond milk, and tapioca flour in a mixing bowl. Use a strong fork and mix really well, for about 2 minutes, until the mixture resembles smooth caramel. There is a chemical reaction when sugar and oil collide, so it's important that you don't get lazy about that step. Mix in the vanilla.
3. Add 1 cup of the flour, the baking soda, and the salt. Mix until well incorporated. Mix in the rest of the flour. Fold in the chocolate chips. The dough will be a little stiff, so use your hands to really work the chips in.
4. Roll dough into walnut-size balls and flatten to about 1 and 1/2 inches and bake for six minutes. Let cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes then transfer to wire racks.

Amanda's note: Perhaps because I used cornstarch instead of tapioca flour, my dough wasn't particularly stiff. I dropped the cookies in tablespoon and a half sized globs. They needed to bake for almost 15 minutes. The point is this, if you change a recipe, you may need to change the baking times. Just watch them carefully the first time you make them.

Etsy Winter Gift Guide

2010-01-21T07:23:00.000-08:00

I haven't put together a gift guide in some time and thought you could use one! Here are some of my recent finds on etsy. Use the provided links to check out the rest of their items! Oh, and did I mention that it's all on SALE?!

Sterling Silver Earrings by Made by Sam

Lotus Sundae Cups by Tracy McEvilly Ceramics

Messenger Bag in Leaves and Grey by Bayan Hippo Handmade

Fill-In Invitations (5 x 7) by Shalom's Cottage Home Greetings

What Do Vegans Eat? Cookies!

2010-01-12T07:44:00.000-08:00

As promised, here is one of the recipes I mentioned in my holiday post. Unfortunately, all of the cookies were eaten before I had a chance to photograph them. I'll try to do better next time!

EARL GREY TEA COOKIES

I found this recipe a few years ago on Martha Stewart's website. I veganized and simplified it a bit. These aren't a really sweet cookie, so all children may not like them. I prefer cookies that aren't too sweet, so this is one of my all-time favorite cookie recipes.

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 T finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves (I actually don't grind mine. I just empty out the tea bags.)
1/2 t salt
2 sticks of vegan soy margarine (I prefer Earth Balance)
1/2 c confectioner's sugar
1.5 T orange zest

1. Combine the flour, tea and salt in a small bowl.
2. Using an electric stand mixer or hand mixer, combine the butter, sugar and zest until creamy.
3. With the mixture on low, slowly add the flour mixture until well combined.
4. Divide the dough in half and form each half into a log. Wrap the "logs" in parchment paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
6. Slice the "logs" into 1/4" slices and place on an ungreased cookie sheet.
7. Bake for approximately 13 minutes (or until the edges turn a golden brown. Cool on wire racks.

These cookies look like little pillows and are, obviously, delicious with a cup of tea!

Little b Bunny Featured!

2010-01-11T08:58:00.000-08:00

Little b Bunny has been featured on the blog of etsy seller Jen of Simply Inviting Cards. You can check out the feature here: Little b Bunny Feature

Is it Christmas Again?!

2010-01-06T08:10:00.000-08:00

Brennan is a little confused. She has had so many Christmas celebrations with different people that she doesn't actually know when Christmas was or that it is now over. We just returned from yet another trip to WV (this one for the weekend) to visit with my brother, sister-in-law, and nephew. They live in York, SC and don't make it up this way very often. I hadn't been down to see them in over a year.We celebrated Christmas again with them, making LB even more confused! It was a good time though. My nephew is so grown up and talking constantly in his cute little Southern drawl. And my sister-in-law is pregnant, and I got to see the bump. We shared gifts, some good food (my stepmother veganized her sweet potato souffle for us), and spent a lot of time talking and playing with the kids.We also celebrated with my cousins from Indiana who were in town staying with my grandmother. Jacob is 22 and Michael is 16 and, at the risk of sounding really old, they are such good kids. Another cousin that lives in town was there as well (David, who is also 16) and he is awesome too. What boys their ages would sit around with relatives playing board games and chatting on New Year's Eve and Day? I was impressed. The pic is of David, Michael and my nephew Clay.

I promise to post some yummy vegan recipes in the next day or two.

SALE SALE SALE

2009-12-30T16:01:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I marked down all of the holiday items in my shop by 30%! I'm hoping they won't last long, so stop in and get yours. Here are a few examples:

Merry Christmas Tree $3.15

Dancing Deer $3.85

Holly Jolly $2.80

Oh, and I have to share the simple and deliciously satisfying breakfast I had this morning. I'm sorry the picture is a bit out of focus. I didn't realize it until the food was long gone. It's oatmeal with soymilk, mixed berries, agave nectar, and pecans, all added to taste.

Been a Long Time Gone

2009-12-29T09:37:00.001-08:00

Whew! I haven't posted since mid-November. Time got away from me during the holidays. Tim, Brennan and I hosted a vegan Thanksgiving dinner at our house for his side of the family. My mother-in-law made a seitan "turkey" with sage stuffing and puff pastry. I contributed three pies: apple-blackberry, pumpkin and pecan (all vegan of course) and we all collaborated on the sides: green beans with shallots and breadcrumbs and a sweet potato casserole. It was all delicious and cruelty-free! Brennan had an awesome time playing with her cousins, Mea and Lil and Tim and I got in some excellent baby-snuggling time.

We just returned to Louisville from a whirlwind visit with family in West Virginia and Ohio. Brennan and I were there a little longer than Tim. My stepmother helped me finish some gifts and I used her kitchen for my holiday baking: ginger cookies, Earl Grey tea cookies and pecan sandies. I've promised my friend Erin cookies, so I'll be doing more baking soon. Tim, Brennan and I spend a lot of time in the car on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day visiting various branches of the family. On Christmas Eve we visit with my maternal grandmother, Tim's parents, sisters, their husbands and our two nieces and then my paternal grandparents, along with various cousins, an aunt and uncles. Then we wake up Christmas morning at my dad's (my stepmother always makes her wonderful cinnamon raisin biscuits with cinnamon icing), head to my mom's house around noon and then on to Tim's parents' house around 5pm. I'm exhausted just thinking about it. This year at my in-laws we decided to start a new tradition. We are all contributing a dish to Christmas dinner and then putting the recipes in a family cookbook. My mother-in-law went a delicious, but non-traditional route for the entree: vegan country stew (similar to beef stew, but made with tvp). My sisters-in-law were in charge of the appetizers. Michelle made vegan stuffed mushrooms (her own recipe) and Paige provided us with some vegan "chickie" salad and crackers (also her own recipe). I'm going to ask their permission to share the recipes here because they are simply delicious! I was asked to make vegan oatmeal cookies. They all love them (so much so that we once sent my father-in-law on a treasure hunt to find them) and none of them will make them for themselves. They are actually just a veganized version of the recipe that is on the lid of the Quaker oatmeal container. How funny is that? Anyway, it was all delicious and stress-free.

So now we're back home, but only for a short while. My brother, sister-in-law and nephew are visiting West Virginia from North Carolina and Brennan and I are going back to visit with them for the weekend. Tim has to stay in Louisville and work, so we will be missing him.

Oh, and I almost forgot (how I could forget this, I have no idea), LB got her first stitches while we were visiting with family. We were at my in-laws getting ready for a holiday party and she ran down the hallway and fell into a door facing. She had a deep gash over and in her eyebrow. We went to the ER and she had three stitches. She was such a trooper. She didn't freak out at all. The ER staff was prepared for a wrestling match, but she just laid there and let them numb her and stitch her up. They were all talking about how they had never seen anything like it. That's my girl!

I've got a few pics below of our holidays and plan to post some recipes soon!

LB helping me cut out pastry leaves for the apple-blackberry pie.

The seitan "turkey" (yes, I know my oven needs cleaning).

The girls in their Thanksgiving jammies.

My nephew opening gifts at my dad's house Christmas morning.

Brennan and Mea Christmas night at Nannan's and Poppy's.

Featured Seller - Happy Elephant Designs

2009-11-14T07:03:00.000-08:00

Shannen of "Happy Elephant Designs" got her start making Christmas Cards for her family in 2005 using scrap booking materials. As happens with many paper crafters, her family loved them and convinced her to begin selling them. Shannen then found someone who would create a website for her and began trying to sell her cards through it. Because this was a small venture and she didn't have the funds for advertising, the website wasn't very successful. Shannen shifted her focus to eBay, but found it expensive, and she didn't care for the format. During this time, "Happy Elephant Designs" was also featured in some craft shows. At this time there were very few people selling cards at craft fairs, and Shannen had a little success. However, she was discouraged by the number of sales necessary to cover the cost of her booths. Finally, Shannen saw an etsy seller on Martha Stewart and decided it would be the perfect place for her to sell her cards. etsy does the marketing for her and is much cheaper than the cost of web hosting or eBay. She's been an etsy seller since 2008.

In addition to etsy, Shannen sells her cards on 1000markets.com. "Happy Elephant Designs" are also available at two local galleries in Cleveland, Ohio, "Artefino" in the downtown area and "The Local Girl Gallery" in Lakewood. Additional upcoming venues include a boutique in Singapore, a Pro shop at a gymnastics school, a locally-owned bakery and local office. Now that Shannen is selling in local shops, she is changing her sales strategy. She's starting to focus on stationery and invitations in her online shops and sells individually crafted cards at the mom and pop stores.

Shannen says that the environment inspires her, whether it's what’s outside her studio window or the supplies and papers around her. Fellow artists also inspire "Happy Elephant Designs." When she experiences "writer’s block" she just looks around at all of the talented people on etsy and the ideas start coming.

Shannen's favorite colors to work with are greens, maroon, whites, and blues. However, she's inspired by her environment and the seasons, so she's now working on Christmas cards and those colors that work best with Christmas. "Happy Elephant Designs" products do lean toward the warm tones. Shannen also enjoys incorporating a variety of textures into her designs. She recently acquired an Epic Six that embosses, debosses, cuts die cuts, and letter presses. There are also sewn elements to be found in her work, adding yet another dimension to her creations.

The best piece of advice that Shannen has received from other etsy sellers relates to pricing. It is important that we value our work. Pricing is difficult for Shannen, as it is for most other card sellers. At times, she feels like she is competing with Wal-Mart and Target with their mass-produced cards priced at $1.00. However, Shannen was advised that if she underprices her cards buyers won't see them as quality products. A person looking for cheap cards is not shopping on etsy or 1000 Markets. Buyers come to etsy and 1000 Markets for quality handmade products and are willing to pay for that quality.

Shannen's advice for new sellers: Get involved in the community. When she first started on etsy, she assumed that she just needed to post her products and forget about them. Needless to say, she didn’t sell anything in the beginning! Then Shannen discovered the forums and received great advice, some clients, and great tips on photography. That is also where she found the street teams. Shannen currently participates with the Etsy Greetings, Cleveland Handmade, and Paper Street Teams.

Shannen's current favorites from "Happy Elephant Designs":

Season's Greetings Card

School Bus Card

Thank You Green Leaf Card

And mine:

Thank You Card in Purple and Blue

Thanks

The Day

2009-11-12T08:01:00.000-08:00

Brennan turned three Tuesday, and we spent the day doing all of the things she likes best. We had chocolate chip pancakes and veggie sausage for breakfast, read books, played with her new toys, went to the zoo and then to the local pet shop. She loves, loves, loves Moe's, so we went there for dinner and then to Sweet Surrender for a vegan cupcake. Her boyfriend Michael met us there for a special surprise!

The Big 3

2009-11-10T06:35:00.000-08:00

Well, my baby isn't a baby any longer. She turns three today. I can't believe it. This time three years ago I was in bed with a beautiful new baby girl next to me. Today I am making that baby pancakes and playing with her new horses and stable with her. I wonder what we'll be doing three years from now?

This past weekend we had a birthday celebration with our families at my dad's house in Ona, West Virginia. Each year we choose a theme. This year it was based on Dr. Seuss books. LB had an amazing time (I know because she mentioned it several times!) with family and her vegan ice cream sundae bar. I've shared some pictures below. Check back for pictures from her day today.

Handmade Harvest Shopping Guide

2009-11-03T14:50:00.001-08:00

I found these items on etsy using the search term "harvest." Be sure to check out these shops for other beautiful handmade goods.

Autumn Themed Mini Scrapbook Album

The Teething Tree Natural Baby Teether

Spiced Pumpkin Cold Processed Soap - Vegan-Friendly

Two Hoots (original illustration) Giclee Art Print

Sunset Beanie with Earflaps and Flower

More Halloween Fun!

2009-11-02T10:35:00.000-08:00

In addition to "Boo at the Zoo," we took LB to a safety fair and "Trunk or Treating" and then to a large block party in Crescent Hill for trick-or-treating. In all, she got to dress up and treat three times. That almost three year-old has had a busy month. Here are some of the pictures from our recent adventures.If you're ever in Louisville on Halloween, you have to check out this event in Crescent Hill. As you can see from the pictures, it's off the hook! Check back in a week or so for pictures from B's Dr. Seuss themed birthday party.

Little b Bunny Recent Listings

2009-11-02T09:31:00.001-08:00

I've recently listed some non-Christmas related items to the shop. Here are a few:

Sparkly Harvest:

Autumn Quilled:

Family Pets:

Let It Snow - New Treasury

2009-11-01T18:50:00.000-08:00

I've been included in a new treasury on etsy. Here's the link: Let It Snow Please check it out and give it some love.

Feature - Rabbit Whiskers Children's Clothing

2009-10-27T06:56:00.000-07:00

This etsy seller combines the techniques of hand smocking and embroidery to create one of a kind classic children's clothing. If you're looking for something special for a child in your life this Christmas, look no further.

Rabbit Whiskers (or Judy, as she is known outside of etsy circles) has been smocking since her daughter was born 33 years ago and embroidering even longer, but has been combining the two for the last 25 years. She began when her daughter was born. Eventually, she sold her dresses at an exclusive children's store in Carmel called "The Mischievous Rabbit" and continued to do so for 16 years. When the shop closed, she decided to open a shop on etsy.

Judy is inspired by all sorts of different things. A lot of her inspiration comes from things she sees in nature, such as flowers and animals. Sometimes just looking at a cut of fabric and thinking about how she could take that piece of fabric and make it look entirely different is a fun challenge that inspires her. Colors, music, and poetry inspire Judy also. She always has classical music on while she is working, and she finds it very inspirational. Furthermore, she sometimes finds it is very inspiring to look at a detailed picture and think of what that picture is saying. That inspires her to go off in a different direction and develop just one idea that she gets from looking at that picture.

Rabbit Whiskers loves color and putting it together in different ways. Particularly when working with baby things, she prefers pastels and soft shades of color, but not exclusively. At times she is really drawn to the primary colors and darker shades, but then she usually prefers them contrasted against white. Green is Judy's favorite color; there are so many pretty shades of green from which to choose. She loves pink too, especially a soft pink, and putting shades of pink and green together. Judy's favorite scenes to create are those with lots of flowers in them and scenes with animals, particularly those with bunnies, lambs, and dogs.

Judy is always interested in reading good advice from other etsy sellers and the Storque. She says that there is so much great advice out there and so many people who are so kind to share it! The one piece of advice that stands out the most clearly in Judy's mind is the advice to believe in yourself and your product. Work hard, be patient, stay focused on your goals and, in time, people will recognize your work and come to you.

Here are a few of Judy's current favorites:

I love this dress with the long sleeves. I like the happy winter scene and the contrast of the strong colors against a white background. I prefer it when the scenes on my dresses suggest little stories or ideas, and I like what this one suggests.

Winter

I think I particularly like this dress because of the way it just seemed to pop into my head, totally complete, without my even trying to think about what I might do. It is very rare that something like that happens. I love the whimsical nature of this scene!

Chasing Purple Butterflies

I think this is one of my favorites because creating the little Westie was a difficult challenge, and I'm pleased with the way she turned out. I also like the colors in it a lot.

Pink Puppy Love

And here are a couple of my favorites:

Let It Snow

Lamb and Flowers

etsy's front page!

2009-10-26T07:20:00.000-07:00

I was on Craft Cult recently and discovered something exciting. I was on etsy's front page back in September and didn't even know it. How exciting is that? Here's a pic of the treasury that made it to the front page:

Holiday Preview

2009-10-25T07:33:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, it's too early to start thinking about the holidays. Actually, it's never to early for me, as I love the holiday season. However, I did not want to be one of those people. You know, the ones who run big box stores and start displaying Christmas trees beside Halloween decorations. However, I do have to compete with those people. I also hope to supply some of the smaller establishments competing with the chain stores, so I needed to get some holiday items for sale in my shop. Here are a few of the items currently listed. Of course, as always, you can view the complete inventory at www.littlebbunny.etsy.com. This holiday season I'm offering free shipping in the U.S. and Canada and reduced shipping to any place else in the world. Check back regularly for new additions.

Yule Tree

Reindeer Frolicking

Joy

Merry Christmas Tree

'Twas the Night

Little b Bunny Special Feature - Lily Jane Stationery

2009-10-14T06:46:00.000-07:00

I "met" this etsy seller in the forums a month or so ago. She creates beautiful stationery and donates some of the profits from her shop in honor of her daughter. Please read the interview and check out Lily Jane Stationery on etsy.

Tell us what inspired you to open an etsy shop.

I actually opened my first Etsy shop about a year and a half ago under the name Badinage. (It means “playful banter”.) I’d been making stationery and invitations for my family quite a bit and discovered Etsy at the same time. It was the perfect way to do something I loved and help with our struggling college student income. I dabbled in that shop here and there. But it was more of a hobby than anything.

Then, this past summer, I gave birth to my beautiful baby girl, Lily. She was born with a birth defect that shortened her life to a brief 6 weeks. She made such a big impact in my life; I knew I needed to find some way to carry on her legacy. So, I closed down Badinage and opened my new shop, which I named after her: Lily Jane Stationery. I donate 10% of all my proceeds to March of Dimes in an effort to help other families who find themselves in a similar situation. And I put even greater care into everything I do because I’m doing it all in her name now.

When and how did you start paper crafting?

I’ve been working with paper for almost as long as I can remember! Growing up I loved to write letters and notes to friends – whether they lived across the country or down the street. I started making my own stationery in order to have the perfect card for an occasion. It was so much more personal that way. I wanted my letters to be something people would want to hold on to.

What inspires your designs?

My invitation designs are inspired by the specific occasions they’ll be used for. I first think of how I want the party to be and then create the invitation with that final picture in my mind. Like the Cherry Blossom invitations which I just designed for my sister’s baby shower. She’s having a girl so I wanted something sweet and pink, but not overwhelmingly so. The cherry blossoms are a perfect fit.

I also find inspiration by simply letting myself run wild in the paper store. When I see what products they have available, new ideas often present themselves. My Christmas cards, for example – I just had to find a way to use that paper.

Tell us about your marketing strategy for Lily Jane Stationery.

I feel like it’s important for people to be able to get to know the designer behind their products. So, I started a blog to do just that. It’s called Just Lovely (http://lilyjanestationery.typepad.com) . It’s where I showcase all the beautiful things I find along with party plans and potential service opportunities (again, with the legacy thing). I also have a Twitter account and a Facebook Fan Page that people can follow me on. Beyond that, I’m just trying to get myself known and participate in the blogging community. I leave comments whenever I can. Even when I’m off the computer I’m always telling people about what I do.

You donate to charitable causes using the proceeds from your shop. Do you think this is important for etsians? If so, why?

I donate a portion of my proceeds to March of Dimes more for myself than anything. It’s something I need to do. It’s a way I keep my baby girl’s memory alive.

That said, it would, of course, be wonderful if everyone found that they could spare a little bit in order to help a cause they love. Even if you don’t think it’ll amount to much. Remember, every dollar is made up of pennies. But it has to be something you really want to do and money that you know you have to give. It’s still important to have some amount of profit in order to keep your business running well. The holidays are a great time to try it out and see if it’s something that works for you.

What are your hopes for your shop in the future?

My short term goals are to be able to donate more to March of Dimes each month than the month before; even if it’s just a few cents. I think that goal will be great motivation to help my shop grow.

I’d also love to be able to focus more of my production on digital prints and even letterpress, eventually. I’ve always loved letterpress and I’m in the process of taking classes to learn how to do it. Digital prints are a great way to give a clean, finished look to stationery without the consumer having to pay quite as much, which is important right now.

Please share a few of your favorite items currently in your shop.

I really love the Halloween Trick or Treat bags. They come in black or yellow and have a clear window with a spider web print on the front. Kids can watch their candy stack up all night long! I would have loved that. And my son’s pretty excited to get to use one, too.

I’m also excited about the custom Christmas photo cards. They’re backed with a striped green cardstock and come with lined envelopes. The different patterns brighten up the whole ensemble.

My year-round favorite would be the Lily of the Valley Thank You Cards. They’re simple and sweet. Great to have on hand for daily use or for special occasions like a baby or bridal shower.

Here are my favorites:

Dr. Seuss Notecards

Filigree Notecard

Green Branch Personalized Card

Harvest

2009-10-11T11:00:00.000-07:00

Tim, LB and I have had an exciting couple of days. On Friday we were supposed to go to a Halloween parade, but were rained out, so we took B to her first movie instead. We saw "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs," a great movie and one that I would recommend. However, B did not enjoy her first movie experience. Apparently, it freaked her out a little. Perhaps a 3D movie wasn't the best choice for a beginner. On the bright side, we don't have to worry about her wanting to go back again for a while!

Yesterday we went to the Belknap Neighborhood's Fall Festival. It was the perfect size. There were arts and crafts, food vendors, a ragtime band and activities for children. Tim bought me a gorgeous gourd with a burnished tree on it and LB enjoyed some kettle corn and painting a pumpkin. Last night we went to "Boo at the Zoo," allegedly the world's largest Halloween party. From the number of people there, I would believe it. LB had fun. Mommy and Daddy, not so much. It was like being run through a cattle chute. But the important thing is that LB liked it. She wanted her picture taken with all of the characters, even though she didn't know who they were. We got a lot of cute pictures, which I have shared below.

On an etsy note, I am working away on Christmas items. My first album has already sold. It was a Victorian theme, and I plan to make another that is similar. Once I have more items, I'll post a preview.

Halloween Treats

2009-10-07T07:20:00.000-07:00

October has arrived! Have you decorated your home, purchased your candy and decided on a costume? My house is all decorated with pumpkins, jack-o-lanterns, skeletons and more pumpkins. Tim and I won't be dressing up this year, but LB is going to be a bee! I'll be sure to take lots of pictures for you. I hope you're also planning to send Halloween cards to the children in your lives. You know they love getting mail! I have some Halloween items left in my shop, so be sure to check them out below, and follow the links to my shop to purchase them. I'm offering free shipping on them all.

Kids' Cat

Happy Halloween

Trick or Treat

Creepy Tree

Scaredy Cat

Premade Scrapbook Pages

Die-Cut Leaves

Feature - Batwa

2009-09-29T07:13:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I've given up on the idea of a "Feature Friday." I just couldn't stick to the schedule. I'll still feature an etsy artist weekly, but it won't always be on the same day. On that note, here's an interview with this week's featured shop, Batwa.

How did you get started making wallets and handbags?

I've always had a thing for handbags (and shoes!) and wallets. I own many and in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes. I made my first little handbag as a birthday gift for my aunt; I was pretty much hooked after that first time. I figured I could change my handbag and/or wallet whenever I wanted to if I could make them myself.

How did you hear about etsy and what prompted you to open your shop?

I first heard about Etsy in a craft forum a little over a year ago. I knew immediately that Etsy was for me.

You are a relatively new seller. How are you working to market yourself? Have you learned any lessons re: what works and what doesn't?

Marketing is still very challenging for me. I am not one of those people who can just hand out my business card to anyone and everyone that I meet. So, for me, I mostly do my marketing through Flickr, Etsy forums, Facebook, Family, Craftgawker, and a few other forums. I'm currently trying Twitter, but I don't think it's REALLY my cup of tea. I can't micro blog about my life to cyberspace for all to know. It hasn't generated any sales, but I must admit it is great for views. I'm still trying to figure out what works and what doesn't. I'm also thinking about advertising in a couple of blogs.

What is the most exciting thing that has happened since you opened your shop?

Exciting things happen to me everyday. I get excited when I get views, hearts, treasuries, etc. The most exciting though has to be being approached to do a wholesale order for a couple of boutiques!

Do you have anything special in mind for the holidays? Will you change your marketing?

I don't think my product lends itself well to "the holidays". It wouldn't be practical to produce a wallet with a winter or Christmas theme because it wouldn't be able to be used all year long. I might do more cool colored items with blues and whites though. I'll be having a FANTASTIC sale in October, perfect for pre-Christmas shopping: BUY 3 wallets and get the 4th. FREE

Generally speaking, are there any lessons you have learned since opening your shop that you can share with us?

I'm still on my learning curve when it comes to photos. I have good days and I have bad days. I shoot all my items outside in bright light, but indirect sunlight and edit them in Picasa, which is a free photo editing software (picasa.com). Customer service has to be top notch! I respond to all buyers with a "Thank you" convo letting them know that I appreciate their purchase, when their item(s) will be mailed, and when to expect them. I try to pack the items in my "colors" green and black and never forget to include your business card! I've also learned that the Etsy forums are a great place to hang out. They're the perfect place to go to get advice, help, words of encouragement, critiques, and lots of laughs.

Here are a few of her current favorites:

Wallet in Amy Butler Wildflowers and Oxford Stripe

Large Cosmetic Case in a Batik Bull's Eye Pattern

Medium Frame Pouch in Amy Butler and Silk

And my favorite:

Wallet in Tina Givens Annabella and Moda

The Ride to Conquer Cancer - Part II

2009-09-28T08:24:00.000-07:00

Okay, so there's this radio station here in Louisville called "Gen X Radio." It plays music that was popular during the 1990s. I love it! Some of it is really, really bad, but it still brings up some great memories. So, anyway, I was listening to Gen X radio on my way to cheer Tim in to a pit stop in Finchville, KY. This pit stop was located in the entrance to a subdivision and, as I pulled in, I rolled down the window to ask the crew chief if I could park behind the tents. She said, "yes," so I proceeded to drive very slowly through the pit stop with the window down waiting for the crowd to part so that I could pass. I noticed that I was getting some funny looks from riders and, as I tried to figure out why, I realized that "Baby Got Back" was blaring out of my radio. Classic Amanda . . . so embarrassing.

Tim beat us to the pit stop, so we didn't get to cheer him in, but we did get to spend a little Tim with him while he refueled. Then we headed on to the finish line in Tom Sawyer State Park, leaving him with strict instructions not to ride too fast so that we could beat him there. Norton had a nice finish line with a chute for the riders and an announcer mentioned all of the names as they crossed. Tim was almost sprinting when he crossed. The announcer was impressed and described him as entering the chute "like a bullet." He continued to comment on Tim as he rode around the back end of the chute cooling off. What a cyclist!

The Olive Garden provided free food for the riders and their guests, and they actually had food that was vegan. Tim, LB and I had a little picnic on the wet ground and, surprisingly, Tim was able to get up and down with no trouble. In fact, he hasn't really even acted as if he is tired or sore. I'm so proud (can you tell?)!

Thanks to everyone who supported Tim through this journey. We really appreciate it. You've all been wonderful and have helped made a difference in raising both awareness and money for cnacer research.

The Ride to Conquer Cancer

2009-09-27T07:28:00.000-07:00

My husband Tim is participating in the Norton Institute's Ride to Conquer Cancer this weekend. I am so proud of him! He road 80 miles yesterday and is doing 75 today. Basically, they ride from Louisville to Lexington and then back again. They had some rain yesterday, but he weathered it like a trooper. Today the skies are clear and the temps are in the 70s. LB, his parents and I visited him at camp last night and he was feeling good. One of his knees was a bit sore, but, other than that, he felt great.

The Norton Institute supported the ride really well. They had plenty of pit stops with snacks, water and sports drinks, "coaches" following to pick up those who needed help and plenty of bike mechanics. At camp they had two person tents set up, medical assistance, hot showers and free massages. They also provided dinner and a Beatles cover band. These pics are from day one. I'll post day two pics later.

Pumpkin Treasury on etsy

2009-09-23T10:30:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I thought it time for a pumpkin treasury on etsy. I curated one this morning. Click on the link to view it in its full-sized incarnation. And don't forget to click and comment!

'Tis the Season for Pumpkins

Feature Sunday? Glass Cube

2009-09-20T15:39:00.000-07:00

I'm (obviously) a little behind this week with my feature. However, I have a lovely etsy artist to share with you this week. She just joined etsy in August and is from Columbus, Ohio. She's already had 47 sales, so maybe we can learn a thing or two from her!

How did you first hear about etsy? How long have you been a seller?

I actually heard about etsy a few years ago. I was starting up a purse business and one of my friends turned me on to the website. Unfortunately at the time I thought I'd be better off getting my own website! Little did I know that etsy would have been much better. So, this time around I went straight to etsy. I just set up my shop on August 9. Etsy has been just absolutely fabulous!

What are some valuable lessons you have learned as a seller?

Patience and pride! I learned (and am still learning) to be patient....the sales will come and my shop will get its name out there! Its hard work being on etsy. You have to spend the time to get to know other etsy members, advertise yourself, network, etc. The second thing I learned is to be proud of my work! I really like what I make, but its a great feeling when others like it too! Being on etsy just forces you to be proud of what you do! :)

Do you buy on etsy as well? What draws you to a shop, if so?

I do buy on etsy! I think its a great way, especially in hard times right now, to make sure that my money goes to good use! I'd much rather buy a handmade, unique item and have a family receive my money than go to a corporation and buy something that everyone already has and feed their profit margin any more!

How do you market your shop? How did you discover what works and what doesn't?

As of right now I am relying solely on blogs, twitter, facebook and word of mouth! I have gotten a lot of my sales from other etsy members that I have gotten to know in the forums!

What inspires you?

Oddly enough, some of my mistakes have inspired me the most. I love the "uh oh that wasn't what I wanted to happen" feeling, and then realizing that I created something even better! I love bright colors, and I love it when my boyfriend designs things with me! He likes to brag about the fact that all of his designs have sold! He really is good when he puts his mind to it!!

Here are some of her favorites:

Orange Split

Necklace of the Month Club

Faded Blue Jeans and Flowers

Special Offer: Glass cube is offering a FREE necklace of the month club if anyone is interested! Just go to
www.twitter.com/glasscube and copy, paste and tweet her message! 502nd Retweet wins!!

New Treasury - Hall O Greetings

2009-09-17T10:40:00.000-07:00

I just got a treasury on etsy and took the opportunity to feature some of the amazing Halloween paper goods from the Etsy Greetings Team. Check out the treasury and be sure to comment!

Hall O Greetings

Blog Feature

2009-09-07T18:19:00.000-07:00

Little b Bunny has been featured on the Northern Dawn blog. Click on "Northern Dawn" to check it out. Laura lives "in the Northern Scottish Highlands, surrounded by gorgeous scenery with a view of the sea. [She] makes knotted and beaded Jewellery and other handmade craft items, perfect to treat yourself to or give as a gift."

Fun in the Sun

2009-09-07T09:49:00.000-07:00

Squeezing the final moments from summer...

Feature Friday - Emintaos

2009-09-03T20:12:00.000-07:00

It's Friday and time to show some love to a fellow etsian, Emily of Emintaos!

What prompted you to open your etsy shop?

I was a floral and event production designer in California for 17 years. When I moved out to Taos, New Mexico a few years ago, holding onto that profession was impossible. I had begun designing jewelry 9 years ago with my best friend, as a hobby and a way to make a few extra bucks. I realized quickly out here that I was going to need to be creative literally and figuratively to help support my family. Etsy was something I had heard about as gaining in popularity. I checked it out, mulled it over, got brave, and went for it. I opened in October of 2008 and, after be really discouraged for the first 8 months, decided to give it a concerted effort once again. This last August, with A LOT of effort and changes to my shop, things are turning around. I WAS JUST FEATURED ON THE FRONT PAGE!

What have you learned during your time as a seller?

Well, believe it or not, I didn't learn about the 'renew' button until recently. That has changed things dramatically. As a seller I have also learned how valuable it is to have other Etsy artisans to lean on for advice, tricks, tips, and moral support. I feel too that I really am learning a lot about the psychology of merchandising. There is a lot to selling, especially if you want to sell jewelry!

What inspires you?

The seasons, the weather, colors, and texture inspire me. I am occasionally inspired by what I see in high fashion. I like to take ideas, combine them, and then pair them down. The older I get the more I see that simple is best.

What are your favorite materials and colors?

Saffron orange, peacock blue, seafoam green, and tanzanite purple, vibrant versions of the secondaries on the color wheel, are among my favorites. I LOVE silk, refined or raw, rough-cut faceted semi-precious stones, real raw rocks, satin vermeil, butter soft deerskin lace.

Do you target specific seasons or events? If so, in what ways?

I really just learned about merchandising for the upcoming seasons, events, and holidays. I took to heart everything I learned from the Storque on Etsy, and I really attribute that to why one of my pieces made it to the front page!

How do you promote your shop? What has worked the best/worst for you?

I visit the forums at least once a day and try to post in the Promo, critiques, or business sections. I post almost every item to facebook, and try to renew at least 5 items a day. This is really still new for me, so I hope to know the answer to this question after the holiday season. Fingers crossed!

Do you sell your wares in other online forums or offline? If so, where? If so, please compare the venues.

I sell in various clothing/gift shops as well as two spa/resorts in my county. I do fairly well. Most of my stuff is on consignment, but I am gaining accounts that buy, which is always the way to go. Etsy is really hard work, and, although I'm not there yet, I hope it will one day rival the success I've had offline.

What are your favorite pieces right now?

I really love the silk wraps I've been doing lately. They are so colorful, versatile, and easy to wear....wrist, neck, ponytail, tie on a gift. I also am quite fond and proud of the higher-end pleated hand-dyed silk necklaces with the preserved leaves I've introduced. One of those was the one that made it to the front page.

Harvest Queen

Silk Ribbon Wrap

Autumn Silk Ribbon Wrap

Here are a couple of my faves! If you get the chance, check out Emintaos' shop and comment here on your favorites. I'm sure she would appreciate the feedback.

Autumn Calling

Antique Sunshine Earrings

Let's Go for a Ride

2009-09-03T20:00:00.001-07:00

I curated another treasury on etsy today! In honor of my cyclist husband, I focused on all things bike. So, if you get a chance, check it out and click away!

Click here.

A Custom Wedding

2009-09-03T07:53:00.000-07:00

I recently had an Australian customer contact me about a wedding card she purchased a couple of months ago. It seems that she moved and lost the card. It was intended for her sister's wedding in two weeks and she wanted to replace it. I couldn't find the original paper that I used for the card, so I made some samples for her. I thought I would share them with you. The pictures aren't the best. I took them quickly with my point and shoot. I think you can get an idea of what they look like though. If you are interested in one, let me know and I can make more. These were all purchased by the aforementioned customer. I really enjoyed doing some custom work, and would love the opportunity to do more.

Autumn on etsy

2009-09-02T07:29:00.000-07:00

I've started putting some autumn and Halloween-themed products in the Little b Bunny shop on etsy. I know, I know, it's only September 2. However, many etsy sellers are starting to promote Halloween items, and I need to keep pace with them. You know how it is. I think Target put out their Halloween decorations in May. Anyway, in case you haven't been to the shop in a little while, here are some of the newer items. I have several more cards ready to go up. You'll see those in the next few days. Be sure to let me know if you want any custom work created. Happy September!

Foggy

Autumn's Leaves

Halloween Trees

Halloween for Kids

Quilled Leaves

Etsy Treasury - Autumn's Colors

2009-08-31T03:50:00.000-07:00

I curated a treasury on etsy this weekend inspired by the colors of autumn. Yes, I am rushing us toward that season. It's my favorite time of the year. Please click on the link and comment on the treasury. The more views and comments I receive, the better my chances of getting to etsy's front page.

Click here.

Feature Friday

2009-08-28T07:36:00.000-07:00

So you all know that I enjoy putting together gift guides and other collections of handmade goods. However, I thought it would be nice if I started featuring some individual artists. We can see a broader range of their work and also get to know them a bit.

b Bunny: Jen, what prompted you to open your etsy shop?

Jen: I was shopping one day and saw the scrapbook paper and thought what can I do with that. I knew about etsy and thought this may be a great way to sell something I love doing.

b Bunny: What have you learned during your time as a seller?

Jen: I have learned that it takes a lot of time and energy to both make and promote your items. I love it though!!

b Bunny: What inspires you? What are your favorite materials and colors?

Jen: I think I am inspired by new paper prints. As funny as that sounds, I see a new print and immediately think what can I do with it. I just love creating. I love paper and my favorite colors are blue/brown and pink/brown combos!

b Bunny: Do you specifically target particular seasons or events?

Jen: I don't really target a certain season, but of course will gear my products towards them. For instance Halloween is coming up and I have begun making Halloween themed products and will do the same for Christmas. I love snowmen, so expect to see a lot of them.

b Bunny: How do you promote your shop?

Jen: My main promotion technique right now is through the forums on Etsy. I recently started a blog and facebook [fan page], but haven't had time to do much with them.

Below are a few of Jen's favorites:

Spider Web and Bat Mini Notecards

Pink and Brown Damask Post-It Note Holder

Flat Matchbook Notebooks

Blue Floral Notecards

Welcome Baby Girl!

2009-08-25T08:28:00.000-07:00

As you all know, I have been anxiously awaiting the birth of my niece! Lillian Tyler Markun was born at 6:05 am Saturday! Tim and I, as well as Tim's other sister Michelle, their mother Robin, Paige's mother-in-law Mila, and, off course, the Daddy, Jeff, all were present for the birth. It was probably the most amazing thing I have ever witnessed. We are so grateful to Paige and Jeff for allowing us to be there. Paige worked so hard and was absolutely gorgeous the entire time. Jeff was a great birthing coach and really supported Paige. Lil did wonderfully. Once Paige started pushing, she was out in 40 minutes. She is so beautiful and alert. I'm sure she's going to be a genius like Mea and Brennan. Speaking of Mea, she is adjusting well to her new baby sister,

giving her lots of kisses and even taking her on a tour of the house when they arrived home. LB is smitten. She talks about Mea and Lil of the time. These are a few pictures from our amazing weekend.

Back to School Gift Guide - etsy.com

2009-08-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

It's time for more of my etsy favorites. I've been seeing tons of stuff on etsy lately that I've wanted to share. I decided that a "Back to School" gift guide is in order. My nephew just returned to school today (third grade!) and my sister returned to her college studies yesterday. I've attempted to include a wide range of styles and gifts for various ages. If you have further suggestions, please feel free to put some links in the "comments."

fernfiddlehead
MacBook Envelope - 13 inch

I just had to include this for my husband's sake. What's better than a handmade envelope for your MacBook. Hmmm...maybe I need one. This is made specifically for MacBooks and MacBook Pros from speckled brown denim cotton and lined with brown and white striped cotton.

my duck duck goose
Turtle Time Personalized Metal Lunch Box

Start out the new school year in an eco-friendly fashion. Give up those paper lunch bags and try out one of these lead-free, food-safe, personalizable lunch boxes. Just think, your child can be socially responsible and stylish all at once.

1 crown 3 tiaras
Eden Ruffle Blouse

I love this beautiful, bright blouse for fall! These colors would flatter any little girl and make quite an impression at school.

an artful agenda
Artful Lesson Planner with Hand-Drawn Art

Any teacher would surely love a handmade planner to start the school year. It's always a good idea to start out on the right foot with your child's teacher, isn't it?

StoriesDivinations
One of a Kind Handcrafted Magnets

These magnets are made with original vintage schoolbook illustrations, super-strong magnets and multiple layers of varnish for long use. I think these would make a great gift for a teacher, useful for hanging your child's artwork on the fridge or super-cute in a child's room.

RW2 Gallery
Speak No Evil, Hear No Evil, See No Evil Pencil Case

I can imagine that some teenage boys would be thrilled to use these pencil cases at school. In fact, it may be the only reason they would ever even consider carrying a pencil case! I'm sure there are some girls that would like them as well, and they would surely be popular with the college set.

Sinem Inugar
Thundercloud Everyday Bag

I think I need this bag for back to school! It would work well as a purse, book bag, diaper bag or shopping bag and would appeal to a broad age range. It measues 13.7" x 13.7" x 18.8."

Britgal Designs
Insulated Lunch Bag

What a stylish and eco-friendly way for you or your child to carry lunch to work or school. The bag is made with 100% cotton Alexander Henry Hollywood fabric and measures 10" x 10" x 4.5."

little fish in a big pond
You Make It Dress Kit

This adorable dress kit comes in sizes 3T to 7Y. It can be worn as a dress and then, as the child grows, a blouse.

This and That

2009-08-15T06:53:00.000-07:00

Soooo...here I am, still waiting for my sister-in-law Paige to push out that baby and trying to focus on creating a blog post. It's been a while again, I know. I'm clearly having some difficulty keeping on top of it this summer. Since I am presently so distracted, this post is going to be a little of this and a little of that. Stick with me. I'll be back to my normal blogging self in no time.

What Do Vegans Eat?

We eat well. I realize this isn't such a great picture. I'm embarrassed about the Gladware shot. However, we were so hungry when we originally ate the meal that we didn't get a shot of our plates in advance. I took this one the next day. I didn't even manage to get a photo of the rest of the meal. You'll have to use your imaginations. The recipe for the potato salad came from one of my favorite cookbooks, Vegan Planet by Robin Robertson. There are loads of amazing recipes in this book. I haven't even managed to scratch the surface. This was my first time serving this salad. I was skeptical at first. Green olives in potato salad? That sounds like something my father-in-law would do. I mean this is a man who once tasted a mimosa blossom! I'll say it again. Green olives in potato salad? It totally rocked. I encourage you to try this served over a bed of fresh baby field greens. As with all potato salads, this is ridiculously easy to make and, of course, tastes even better the second day. As usual, I was unable to completely stick with the recipe. My changes are in parenthesis. Enjoy it! (That's a command, by the way.)

"Close to Mom's Potato Salad"

1.5 lbs red or white waxy potatoes
1 inner celery rib, minced (I used 1.5 outer ribs.)
2 tablespoons grated onion (I used an entire small onion, minced.)
1/4 cup sliced pimiento-stuffed green olives (I added a few extras.)
3/4 cup soy mayonnaise (I used Vegannaise.)
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dijon mustard
salt and freshly ground black pepper
paprika (I forgot this ingredient.)

1. Place the potatoes in a large saucepan with salted water to cover. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and continue to boil until tender, about 30 minutes. Drain and allow to cool.

2. Peel the potatoes (I skipped this step.), cut into bite-sized chunks, and place in a large serving bowl. Add the celery, onion, and olives and set aside.

3. In a small bowl, combine the soy mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and add to the potato mixture, stirring gently to combine. Sprinkle the top with paprika. Serve right away or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. This is best eaten within a day or two of being made.

Serves 4 to 6.

We had another of our favorite dishes with the potato salad. This one was created by the aforementioned sister-in-law. Since I don't have a photo of the dish, I thought I'd share a picture of her. This one was taken at an art/music show in Huntington, WV, where I was born. My brother-in-law, Ben, aka Bengineer, aka the Solo Buffalo played a set early and we were able to take LB and Mea. Paige, as usual, was the snack master. However, instead of her typical bag of fruit, she bought some chips and cookies. I thought she looked pretty funny packing junk food around in her current state. Anyway, she's a vegetarian and wanted to create something like a barbecued chicken pizza. She then used the same recipe to create what we refer to as "Barbecued Chickie Sandwiches." They are good served with a lettuce leaf, tomato slice and vegannaise or a generous portion of vegan cole slaw. This is so easy to make that you just can't not try it.

"Barbecued Chickie"

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 package of seitan or Morningstar Farms Chick'n Strips
Sweet Baby Ray's Barbecue Sauce, to taste
K.C. Masterpiece Barbecue Sauce, to taste
lettuce leaves
tomato slices
whole wheat buns, toasted

1. Heat oil in an oven-safe pan on medium heat and saute' the garlic until it starts to brown. Add the chik'n and brown. Once the chik'n is evenly browned, add both barbecue sauces to taste (I usually coat it well and then add a little extra.).

2. Place pan of barbecued chik'n under a broiler and watch closely. Broil until slightly blackened.

3. Serve with toasted buns, lettuce and tomato, or your favorite toppings.

Serves 4-6.

Current Projects

I've got some projects that I've been working on for a while and am about to finish. Finally! My mother-in-law's patchwork porch throw is almost bound! This is the most tortuous part for me. I hate to bind! It is sooo tedious. It's worth it though. The finished product makes me forget the torture I just endured! Here's the throw now. You can see part of the completed binding. I'm really liking the way this turned out and wish I could keep it for myself. Alas, it is Robin's birthday/Mother's Day gift (I know, I know...I'm always dreadfully behind).I'm also about to finish an afghan for someone else, but I can't yet divulge the recipient. It's top secret. I'm using three colors, as you can see. One is chocolate brown and the others are shades of blue. This is my first attempt at making granny squares. I found an awesome site some time ago called crochet cabana. She explains different stitches and shapes step-by-step. I believe you could teach yourself to crochet using her site alone.

Look for a new etsy "Back to School" gift guide in the next day or two.

Catching Up - byhand.me blog entry

2009-08-04T14:37:00.001-07:00

Well it's been one crazy summer. I (obviously) haven't been keeping up with the blog here. I intend to change that! This summer I have been crafting, camping, cooking, writing and being a mommy and wife. For details, you can visit my personal blog at http://www.littlebbunny.blogspot.com. I also have some great gift guides and features of other artists. There is a ton of beautiful handmade work out there and I try to showcase as much as I can. Speaking of handmade, I have added many, many items to my shop since I last posted. One that I love (and that was a big risk for me) is a pre-embellished scrapbook for a baby girl. I used a Paper Chase archival album and embellished all 50 pages. It took quite some time and a great deal of materials. I had to price it rather high ($100), as a result, hence the "risk" statement. It really turned out nicely and is a bargain if you consider the time it took to produce. However, I am not sure if it will be well-received. There's an image below. You can check out the shop for more views or email me and I can send many more to you.

I've got some additional projects in the works and will be posting more pictures soon.

Travel

2009-07-27T20:28:00.001-07:00

Just checking in. LB and I are out of town visiting with family. I haven't forgotten about you! Here are some pictures from the trip to tide you over.

Tea.

2009-07-16T15:26:00.000-07:00

That's all I need to say really. Tea. It's delicious, healthy and relaxing. Tea. I can't get enough. There's nothing better than a good cup of tea in the winter or some iced tea with fresh mint in the summer (I'm having some of that right now.) There's a great little tea shop on Rivington Street in NYC called teany. It's owned by Moby (that's irrelevant, I guess, but I am probably known for throwing in irrelevant information) and offers a huge variety of wonderful teas. They also serve vegan food, as Moby is vegan himself. There. I made that little tidbit relevant. Sitting outside the shop with a cup of tea and a sandwich was a lovely NYC experience. I do have to mention an interesting little story though. I was once by there with Tim and my mother-in-law on a chilly, rainy day. We planned to eat at a restaurant nearby and then go back to Teany for, what else, tea. Tim and I couldn't remember how to get to the restaurant from the train station where we had gotten off. Robin was tired of us wandering around looking. She took it upon herself to head back by Teany and ask them for directions. The shop is in a basement level of a building and she had to descend some slippery, wet stairs on her way into the shop. Well, she slipped, fell flat on her back and hit her head on the concrete stairs. Tim and I were still a half a block away waiting for her on the corner. After a little while, we went back to look for her thinking she had been tempted into a cup if tea. Nope. She was sitting on a little chair next to the counter waiting. The servers hadn't offered to call us or even offered a cup of tea. She was wet from falling. The stairs themselves were quite wet. After making sure she was fine, we decided to stay for tea to give her a chance to rest and warm up. While sitting there, several other people slipped on those stairs, but none of them fell. We finally mentioned that they might want to do something to prevent another accident. At that point they mopped up some of the water and put out a rug. Drinking our tea wasn't at all relaxing. It was clear that they wanted us out of there as soon as possible. I imagine they were afraid that we were aware of who owned the shop and were going to sue or something. Whatever the case, it was incredibly rude and we were incredibly angry. The icing on the cake was them actually charging us for the tea. The point? I thought it was an interesting story. And, well, it demonstrates our love of tea. Because, despite our anger, we returned to that tea shop because we couldn't resist the tea! And, well, I don't feel even the slightest bit of guilt about it.

Do any of you have a tea story you would like to share? Or a favorite tea or tea ritual? If so, please share with us in the comments section of this post.

Since tea is the subject of this post, I thought it appropriate to feature some tea-related items that I've found on etsy. Be sure to check out the shops. They have many more beautiful things. Just click on the shop or item name to be directed back to their etsy shops.

Brookish Handmade Goods
Take Tea With Us - Tea Bag Caddy ($10.00)

Stilletto Heights
After the Tea Party - Reproduction Art Print ($18.00)

Marci G's
Red Poppy Tea Bag Holder ($10.00)

Dewberry Vintage
Tiki Table Tea Set ($25.00)

Wildroot Botanicals
Take it Easy Tea ($6.25)

Cornflower Creations
Spring Swallow - Hand Embroidered Tea Towel ($17.00)

Rose Bush Designs
Tea Stained Thank You Set of 6 ($15.00)

Savvii
Blackberry Sage Tea - Whipped Body Frosting ($3.25 - travel size)

Etsy Promos

2009-07-13T12:31:00.000-07:00

I have a promo going on right now for my etsy shop and I thought I would share it, as well as those of some other shops. I actually have two promos. If you become a "follower" on the blog, you will receive 25% your first purchase in either of my shops. If you become or are already a "fan" of Little b Bunny on Facebook, you will receive 15% off your purchases until midnight tonight. Just be sure to mention if you have done either of these things in the notes to seller.

etsy

artfire

Here are some of the other great promos currently on etsy:

JJ & K's girly things is offering 10% off everything in the shop.

Beads, Buttons, Bubbles is offering 13% off an order over $10.00

Small Packages is having a Christmas in July Sale. You get free shipping domestically, three snowflake ornaments for $12.00 and discounted prices on lacey legwarmers.

Lindy's Place is offering free shipping on all earrings.

Shuffle Studio is offering free shipping on any purchase to any location.

Dirty Girl Soaps is charging only $1.00 shipping on all U.S. orders.

California Bath and Body has free shipping and is offering a free shimmer lip balm with purchase.

Little b Bunny on Artfire

2009-07-09T07:42:00.001-07:00

Little b Bunny is on Artfire! Obviously, I love etsy. However, I need to diversify and start selling in other places as well. I've heard good things about Artfire, so I decided to give it a whirl. So far, I really like it. It's user friendly, puts all new listings on the front page and doesn't require buyers to join. I've posted some pictures of items I have in the shop. I plan to add more as the week passes. Check out the shop, if you have a chance. I'm offering 15% off the prices to anyone who mentions this blog.

Blank Note Set - Floral Print

Unisex Handmade Baby Scrapbook

Boy and Girl Gift Notes with Tags

I've also been adding new items to my etsy shop. Here are a few new ones.

Congratulations Greeting Card

Welcome Baby

Premade Halloween Scrapbook Pages

More Camping and Another Etsy Shop?

2009-07-06T19:28:00.000-07:00

Don't say I didn't warn you. I've uploaded the pics from the camping trip that Tim took. There are some nice ones that I couldn't resist sharing with you. Most of them are from two of our hikes. One passes over a smaller waterfall than Blackwater and the other I like to refer to as the "fern trail" because it is literally like walking through a sea of ferns. Of course, this meant that I loved it! My love of ferns and mosses is rubbing off on LB. She gets excited when she sees them. Ahhhh...the power of parenthood. At least I use my powers for good!

I've been trying to get Tim to open a photography shop on etsy, and I think I finally convinced him. I told him I would facilitate it for him. He does amazing work that I believe he needs to share. Some of it is more commercial and the rest is a bit closer to fine art or nature photography. He got into the nature photography to meet my needs! Anyway, check back. I hope to get him moving with this in the next couple of days. Now if I could only get my mother-in-law to get on the vintage shop I want to open with her....

LB on the Elakala Falls Trail

Hike Gallery:

And Another One

2009-07-05T20:49:00.000-07:00

I just curated yet another Treasury on etsy. I keep lucking into them! I've got a partial photo below, but be sure to check out the actual Treasury, "Paper in Black and White."

Treasury Thursday?

2009-07-02T16:09:00.000-07:00

It is a day for Treasuries on Etsy. I both curated one and was included in one. Please check them out and click and comment. The more traffic (clicks on items) the treasuries receive, the more likely they are to make it to Etsy's front page. Here's the one I curated:

Check it out here.

This is the treasury that includes my wedding card:

Check it out here.

A Camping We Will Go

2009-07-01T08:53:00.001-07:00

Today we returned from a wonderful camping trip in Davis, WV at Blackwater Falls State Park. And, as usual, I have post-camping depression. I'm always sad when we have to leave and return home. While gone, Tim joked that we should just stay and live in the woods and for a split second I thought it sounded like an excellent idea. I want to share some images and some links with you. If you ever have to chance to visit this part of WV, definitely do so. It's absolutely breathtaking.

This is Tim and Brennan goofing off at the Falls overlook in Blackwater Falls State Park.

LB playing at the camp site. When asked what she liked best about camping, she responded, "Putting rocks and mud in my bucket."

Tim setting up the tent.

If you look very, very closely, you can just barely make out a bear.

Two fawns and a doe.

Tim had a bit of a mountain biking accident and his gash started bleeding again while we were at dinner.

LB eating at Hellbender Burritos in Davis, WV.

Tim and I on our 11th wedding anniversary.

A wonderfully cheesy tourist trap near Seneca Rock, WV called Smoke Hole Caverns.

A ribbon stalactite inside the cavern.

Flow inside of the cavern.

I may not be able to resist adding more images once I get those that are on Tim's camera. Check back. :)

Etsy Greetings Showcase

2009-06-19T05:43:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in a few days because I have been busy hanging out with my niece, Mea, and sister-in-law, Paige. Of course we had an amazing time with them. LB and Mea were so cute running around screaming and laughing. Their energy is definitely infectious. And then there's Paige. She is the most adorable pregnant woman around in her short shorts, tank tops and bikinis. She looks just like Paige with a ball on the front. This is probably due in large part to the fact that she is still Zumba-ing at eight months! She's apparently a legend at the local YMCA. Anyway, we were all having so much fun that I neglected the blog and my shop. Tomorrow I hope to blog more about the visit and post some cute pics of the girls. But, for now, on to the showcase.

Etsy Greetings Street Team Showcase

I created this showcase using the search term "etsygreetings." These are a few of my favorites, but there are many, many more out there worth viewing. If you search using either "etsygreetings" or "etsygreetingsteam," you will have hundreds, if not thousands, of choices.

Tweet - Tweet Little Felt Bird (Any Occasion Card)

I love all of the layers and textures in this card by Adore by Nat. And who could resist this lovely little bird?

Herb Notecards - Set of 4

These cards from winemakerssister have me drooling for the first harvest of herbs from my garden. What better way is there to send a greeting during these gorgeous summer months?

Vintage Humpty Dumpty Clown (Note Card)

This card from Kelly Bee's Place looks like a vintage upcycled piece, but is completely new and designed to appear vintage. I love this about it!

Goldfish Bubbles Blank Folded Note Card

Fubabee's goldfish card evokes a peaceful Japanese garden, while also giving one a sense of movement. This is a modern interpretation of a classic theme.

Projects

2009-06-15T13:44:00.001-07:00

I have a lot of ongoing projects that I have been meaning to share with you. I don't have any updated pics of the house projects, but we are still in the middle of a playroom renovation (turning our old breakfast nook into LB's space), refinishing the stairs and putting up the reed fencing. I finished the herb garden, with the exception of the mulching. Once that is complete I will post pics of it. The perennial garden is looking awesome, if I do say so myself. The Bee Balm, Jacob's Ladder and Baby's Breath are all in bloom. I also have a new addition to the shade garden. I found an old ladder back chair with a cane seat that is coming apart on the curb in my neighborhood. I brought it home and put it in the fern garden. It has an old kettle with English Ivy growing out of it on the seat. I know this sounds ratty, but it really does look nice. I guess I'm going to have to take pictures to prove it. Anyway, that's what's going on with the house and yard.

Because I'm a glutton for punishment, I have many other crafty-type projects going on as well. I still haven't hemmed the dress I made for LB. She might grow out of it before I get around to this! There is also a patchwork skirt and coordinating halter top in the works for her. And then I bought some gorgeous fabric the other day to make yet another skirt for her. I wasn't planning to make another one, but I couldn't pass up this tree fabric that I found at Joann's. I haven't yet landed on a pattern, but I found several free ones online that are interesting and appear to be fairly straightforward. I randomly bought some additional fabric at the Nearly New Shop in the Highlands. Nearly New is a nicer thrift store that only accepts well cared for clothing and items for the home. I found some vintage dresses that I would have loved to purchase, a bed frame that was adorable, two modern armchairs and some wooden serving plates. Alas, as I am being financially responsible, I didn't buy any of them. I walked out of there with a 50 cent piece of fabric. It's roughly half of a yard and super cool. I don't yet know what I'll do with it, but isn't that the way it goes? I'm leaning toward a small purse with a cane handle, at the moment. So those are potential projects just barely in the works. I have actually been working on some things. I finished the bag for my mom, but I forgot to photograph it before giving it to her. It was made from the paisley fabric I posted a few days ago. She left for the beach this morning and I made the bag large enough to be a beach bag and stuffed a huge bright pink beach towel down in it. I'm still not done with the orange project, but I have started another one. I taught myself to make granny squares using a tutorial from Crochet Cabana. I'm planning to make an afghan from these yarns and, perhaps, a third. This is obviously my first one, so I'll let you know how tortuous the process is.

Then I've also been working on my cards for my shop. What I intended to be a paper goods shop has quickly turned into a card shop. I need to make some albums and embellishments. Anyway, here's a sneak peak at a couple of the new items. I'll be listing them this week. If you decide to buy one or both of them, I'll take 10% off of the price (before shipping). Just put "sneak peak" in the message to seller when you make the purchase.

Signing off...check back later this week for a new gift guide.

Little b Bunny Selected for Gift Guide

2009-06-12T17:12:00.000-07:00

I was just selected for my first gift guide on etsy! I'm sooo excited! It's a Father's Day Weekend Deals theme. How cool is that? Here's the link: Gift Guide on Etsy.

And here is a screen shot of the page:

Etsy "Yart Sale" Gift Guide

2009-06-11T07:49:00.000-07:00

The annual "Yart* Sale" on etsy began yesterday and goes through the 14th. For specifics on the sales, you can visit the Etsy Supplies Street Team's blog. It's basically a big yard sale for the art on etsy. Fun, huh? I think this would be a good time for a gift guide, don't you? This time I'm taking a different approach to the creation of the guide. Instead of doing all of the searching myself, I'm letting the sellers come to me. I put a post in the forums letting everyone know that I am looking for Yart items to feature. I'm going to let it go for a while and then I will choose those I want to include in the gift guide.

Oceanic Flower Necklace Crocheted in Cotton

All "Yart Sale" items in Fuzzy Lumpkin's Crochet Shop are already discounted 10% and include free shipping.

Gulf Breeze Vegan Soap

All of the soaps in the Solstice Scents Soap Shop are discounted through the end of the "Yart Sale."

Blank Hand-Stamped Red and White Flower Journal

All items purchased from Green Ribbon Gifts during the sale are shipped for free.

Stained Glass--Sunburst

All of Radiance Art's stained glass items are 20% during the sale.

Keep on Growing

Moon Through Fog has a section for the "Yart Sale" in her shop with marked down work. Items not on sale are eligible for free shipping and gift of an original drawing.

*Yard+Art=Yart

And a few of my own "Yart Sale" items:

Blooming Blue

Botanics Art Card Set

my DAD

In Progress

2009-06-09T06:26:00.000-07:00

I have just not been motivated to blog for the past few days. I don't know what it is. You know how I love to talk! I guess a lot is going on, but nothing much is going on at the same time. So, I decided to share a few things that are "in progress." The first one is a little depressing and involves poop. Yes, I said it. Poop. While a few years ago this would have been an inappropriate subject for conversation, as soon as I became a mommy, poop suddenly figured large in my life. Well, for the past few months, it has taken an even larger portion of my time and thoughts. LB is having a lot of trouble doing it. At first we thought it was purely psychological. Her doctor recommended prune juice, graham crackers and then Miralax. They made her lose control of her bowels. We were left with no option but to use glycerin suppositories every three days. Yes, we've been doing this for a couple of months. It's terrible. She hates it and gets so upset and then it causes her a lot of pain to actually go. She always looks so betrayed. Well, the doctor is ready to take action. Tomorrow my baby girl has to have a barium enema. Yes, you read correctly. My two year-old has to go through this. Can you imagine? So I have begun to educate her on her digestive system. I know this sounds crazy, but it was my dad's idea. Take it up with him if you disagree. It does seem to be helping some. I explained how it all works and then we practice how she will lay on the table. At the very least, she will know what is happening when it starts. Hopefully, tomorrow we will have some answers.

Okay, now on to the happy stuff. I've been working on some sewing projects lately, but I can't show them all to you. I've been making some gifts and I don't want to give away the surprise. However, I can give you some peeks. In a week or so, I can give you a full look at what I have been working on. I'll also photograph some really cute fabric that I got to make a skirt for LB. I'm excited. It will be my first, so it should be interesting. I made both without patterns. I guess I sew like I cook, huh?

Finally, I have a progress report on Molly and her training. Having a puppy is sort of like having a newborn. Everyone has an opinion or advice. There are different schools of thought on raising and training a puppy. People can bristle if you don't agree with their method. We're taking a course at PetSmart with some success. Our trainer described her teaching style as comparable to the Waldorf style of teaching children. I thought this was amazing, as I am a proponent of such alternative forms. However, when my mother-in-law visited this weekend, she informed us that Molly was running the house and our lives. She made a few suggestions about teaching Molly that she is not the leader of the pack. So, we've settled on a combination of the two methods. This might sound contradictory, but I think it is really going to work for us. We've already seen some improvement in her behavior. She was already ringing a bell to go out, but now she isn't pulling as much when we walk her and isn't mouthing my hands and arms as often. She can also "sit" and "shake" and does fairly well with "take it, leave it." Now we're working on "stay," as we continue to work on the other skills. I included a cute picture of LB and Molly on our way to training. Check back tomorrow for a special feature!

Curated Treasury

2009-06-04T14:28:00.000-07:00

Woohoo! I just curated my first Treasury on etsy! My theme/title is "A Sea of Blue" (what else, right?). You can check it out here: "A Sea of Blue." This is the most I could get into a screen shot, so go check out the full page.

It's Over.

2009-06-03T12:37:00.001-07:00

Today is the last day of this month's challenge. Whew! I've been doing this for 17 days! I'm tired. I wanted to share some of the feedback that I received from some participants in the challenge:

"I am so grateful to be part of this challenge and send good luck to all of you..."

"I just again want to say it has been pure fun meeting you all in this challenge. I did not get any sales (yet) but I am happy to report that my best visitor day was on Friday with 35 visits. I know that sounds puny, but it is a lot better than the day of 0 visits before I started this challenge.It very difficult for a newbie....I am very appreciative of the exposure I have received.
I also think we are adding good karma to the world by encouraging the art of letter writing; we add beauty to the world with our creations...."

"Just wanted to quickly respond by saying that I'm finding that 10 days and 10 people is a little too much. I have many different types of things in my shop, so trying to stay in the paper/greetings posting that long is harder for me. I also tend to get bored with things quickly and am ready for it to be over after 7 days. I mean this in the nicest way. It has been a lot of fun and I appreciate your putting it together. I just feel ready to get on with my other listings/etc. It's starting to feel as though it is dragging on a bit. Of course, this may be because it is the end of the school year and there is already so much change going on here."

"I have really enjoyed the first 4 days of this challenge - what a neat way to get to know 9 of you better! Plus, it's always good to see the payoff of extra work in your shop (even if it is just hearts or views for now)."

"It has been a bit stressful trying to get it all posted everyday on top of everything else I have to do but I am enjoying it for the most part too. My favorite part has been getting to see all of your work and getting to know you all better as well."

"I've had 2 sales- one online and one off etsy from a friend. I know at least the off-etsy sale one was related to the extra promotion from Twitter and Facebooking each day about my listings."

I think that the response was positive overall. While it is tiring and stressful, there is also a payoff at the end. I, for one, am going to miss hearing from the challenge participants every day!

Here's my item for today:

Butterfly Notes (Set of 4 Thank You Cards)

Countdown

2009-06-02T05:30:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the last day of the challenge. Today is the last day I will be featuring another participant, since we had ten people total. I've really enjoyed this challenge, but I am also exhausted. It takes more time than one would think to list items and then blog about them. Doing this every day eats up quite a bit of time (this is in addition to actually making and photographing the items). However, I'm definitely going to do it again. I feel it is totally worthwhile and also enables me to get to know other members of the street team. I'll be announcing the dates of the next challenge soon. Other members of the street team will be given the option to join the challenge before those of us who participated this time have a second go at it. I won't be participating this time around, but will be facilitating and blogging about it to try to send some traffic their way. I'm sure I'll be back with another challenge in July and, of course, will be listing items all throughout June as well.

Here's the item I just posted:

A Rich Man

Today I'm featuring The Paper Flower Shop, a seller of amazing crepe paper flowers and a variety of cute cards. I once saw a crafter on Martha Stewart's show who made all of her own wedding flowers from crepe paper. They were gorgeous, as are the ones in this shop! Here's the most recent listing from The Paper Flower Shop:

Mini Ribbon Tied Pastel Note Cards

And here's my current favorite:

Blue Beach Ball Baby Shower Invitations

Play.

2009-06-01T19:58:00.000-07:00

LB got her kitchen! My Dad has been making this for her since before Christmas. He works ridiculously long work weeks and doesn't have much time to dedicate to projects such as this. B didn't know the difference. I think she was just happy to receive something so special. She keeps asking me if her Pawpaw Dan and Mawmaw Pam made this for her. They really did a beautiful job. There is a stainless steel sink, with working knobs, a stove with four eyes and knobs that turn, as well as one for the oven. Speaking of the oven, it has a window for viewing the contents, an oven rack and a pizza stone. There is a two-shelf cabinet under the sink and a shelf that runs across the top. Pegs on the top shelf hold pot holders and cups. There is also a small shelf for her salt and pepper and a clock with moveable hands. Every single piece of it was hand-crafted. Some of the knobs are even made from burled wood found on my grandparents' farm. How cool is that?

So the 10-day challenge is winding down. There has been a mostly positive response to the experience on the part of the participants, although there is some concern that it is too long. On the whole though, we have all enjoyed it, although we will also enjoy a break from the constant listing and blogging. So, without further ado, here is my listing for the day:

Sincerely Monogram A (Thank You Card Set)

Today I am featuring L Whelan designs, one of the challenge participants with an awesomely bright shop. I love her motto: "It's not perfect. It's perfectly handmade." Who wants perfect? That's what machines produce! Give me handmade any day. Lynn makes accessories and paper goods from Lily Pulitzer fabrics, giving her shop an extremely colorful palette. Here's her most recent listing:

Think Pink Card

And my current favorite:

Nautical Tags, Set of 2, Great For So Many Things

Strawberries, Ceiling Fans and Etsy, Oh My!

2009-05-31T19:56:00.000-07:00

I know I'm weird, and I think that makes it okay. Doesn't it? We've just wrapped up a wonderful weekend here in L'ville. We had some family visit and enjoyed their company. We also were the beneficiaries of their expertise in a couple of areas. Pam, my stepmother, helped me with some sewing and then repotted all of my house plants. My Dad, Danny, wired in a ceiling fan in our bedroom and wired our generator. It wasn't all work though. We went to a local used/remaindered bookstore and spent a long, long time looking at books, reading said books, including many to LB, and, today, went to visit my sister. She lives out in the country and has a nice garden, so she offered to let us pick strawberries. Yum! Brennan tasted her first warm strawberry fresh off of the vine (my sister didn't use pesticides on the plants) and was hooked. The pic is of the strawberry juice running down her leg. She had it everywhere, her face, hands, shirt, legs and feet were covered with stains. She had a blast!

So I've been barely making it each day with the 10/10/10 challenge. Here I am again blogging at 11 PM. I did list earlier in the day in the hopes of getting more traffic. I haven't had any sales yet during this challenge (The last time I did one, I had four sales.), but have had more traffic and received some hearts. It's been fun, despite whatever sales it might generate. That said, I should move on to today's item.

Small Thank You Note

Today I am featuring jemily, who has a gorgeous etsy shop full of bright and cheery cards that I would definitely enjoy receiving. Here's her most recent listing:

Thinking of You Card

And my current favorite in her shop:

So Thoughtful Card

Nostalgia

2009-05-30T20:04:00.000-07:00

(I couldn't resist including a picture of my garden. I love it so.)

I know that is an odd title for a blog post. However, it relates to the seller I am featuring for the 10/10/10 challenge. Her shop makes me nostalgic for a time that I didn't even experience. Cool, huh? Scroll down to see some of her work.

Here's my listing for the challenge:

Cheery Birthday

Today I'm featuring Percival Road Designs, a shop offering collaged and handmade paper goods. You'll find a wide variety of items in a plethora of styles.

Here's the most recent listing in the shop:

Two Elegant Vintage Girl Gift tags - Sun Burst

And here is my current favorite item:

Sweet Greeting Collage Card - First Flowers of Spring

Belated

2009-05-30T06:33:00.001-07:00

I'm sorry that I didn't manage to get this post up yesterday. I did post my item, but I had an ill toddler to contend with later in the evening. I ended up falling asleep with her and awoke this morning to find I hadn't even brushed my teeth! Ick! So, without further ado, here's my listing from yesterday:

congratulationsCONGRATULATIONS!

Today I am featuring Cards and Moore, the site of a prolific crafter and homeschooler. I don't know how she does it all! She recently did some interesting things with wood veneer. I'm waiting with bated breath for the tutorial she's planning. Here's her most recent listing:

Owl Rag Bag

And here's my favorite item from her shop:

Thanks a Hoot Card

It's bright and cheerful and, of course, I love owls. Be sure to check out Cards and Moore.

Just in Time

2009-05-28T20:07:00.001-07:00

Ack! I almost forgot to list my challenge item and update the blog. It's been a crazy day, but a good one. My parents are here visiting and LB has really been wound up. My dad made her an awesome kitchen for a Christmas gift, but didn't quite finish it on time. He brought it with him this visit and that is basically all she did all day. It's absolutely beautiful and I am so psyched that she loves it so. I'll post pics tomorrow. For now, here's what I've been up to:

Leaves Fall from the Tree

And here are the items I'm featuring from Pinky Creations, one of the other challenge members:

The image below is of her most recent listing.

Circle Thank You Card

And this one is my favorite item in her shop.

You Are the Light of My LIfe

How cool is this card? It's such a unique idea and executed so well. She makes being green appear so elegant. Check out her shop for some great ideas such as this one, as well as some beautiful gift tags.

This and That

2009-05-27T12:56:00.000-07:00

I've been doing a bit of this and that today, laundry, reading, sewing, listing, blogging and on and on. I'm sewing a rag quilt bag for my stepmother for her crochet supplies. She enjoys taking her work along when she travels or just goes to the doctor, so I thought it would be nice if she had something nice to take along with her. This was supposed to be a birthday gift in March and then a Mother's Day gift this month, but, as usual, I am woefully behind. Although, fortunately, I am not full of woe. I am feeling jealous this week. My sister/brother-in-law and niece are at the beach. LB hasn't yet been and I would love to take her. However, we've dedicated all of our vacation time this year to camping and home repairs, renovations. We still have yet to finish the stairs or the playroom. We've been doing a lot of work outside and neglecting the projects we began inside. This is normal for us; we are easily distracted. We are planning to go to Blackwater Falls for our camping trip this month, Mammoth Cave in July and Cumberland Falls in August. We love Blackwater and would move to Davis if we could, but haven't yet been to the two other places. BTW, the picture is of Paige, Jeff and Mea at the beach. Paige is seven months pregnant and looks at least 10 times better in a bikini than I do right now! Mea loves it and is often heard screaming, "I love the beach!"

On to other news...the 10/10/10 challenge is going really well. Everyone seems to be sticking to the parameters. I have really enjoyed getting to know some of the members of the Etsy Greetings Street Team and seeing all of their work. There are so many people on etsy that it is impossible to view everything. I posted my item of the day this morning:

Fabric Thank You Cards

Today I have decided to feature Cara's Scrap 'N Stamp Art. She has a huge selection in her shop, with a variety of products. This is her most recent listing:

Baby's Christening Card

And this is my favorite listing in her shop:

Premade Baby Boy Onesie Scrapbook Album

Please take the time to check out her shop, as well as the shops of the other challenge participants!

10/10/10

2009-05-26T11:26:00.000-07:00

Ten Etsians for Ten Days with 10% off...

That's even more dramatic, don't you think? Some of us in the challenge have decided to offer ten percent off. You'll need to see the original shops for details, as everyone is handling it a bit differently. I'm giving 10% off any of the cards that I list for the challenge to anyone who posts a comment on this blog. Just convo me on etsy and let me know you have done so. Since the challenge runs through June 3, I'll honor this offer for anyone who comments by midnight on June 4.

Here's today's item for the challenge:

Repeating Congratulations

I also want to point you in the direction of another challenge participant, "Scrapbook Completed." This seller is also offering 10% off on the items she has listed during the challenge and has a section for these cards on her front page. Here is her most recent challenge listing:

Flower Girl Card

This is my favorite item in her shop:

2 Card Collection, Spring Trees

Check her shop out!

New Challenge - 10 Etsians/10 Days

2009-05-25T04:13:00.000-07:00

Does that sound dramatic? I was imaging music from Star Wars or was it Star Trek? I don't know, it was one of those star movies. Anyway, ten members of the etsy street team, Etsy Greetings, myself included, have decided to list at least one item for ten days on etsy.com. We will then post a link to that item on our blogs, as well as a link to an item of one of the other participants. We're going to be holding each other accountable, so we'll also be checking each other's shops and blogs daily. Whew! Sounds like a lot of work, huh? All in the name of marketing! Links to the etsy shops of each participant are to your left. From there you can find information about their blogs and other etsy shops (if they have either, not all do). I'm offering 10% off on the cards I list in the challenge to those who comment on this blog. This offer expires on June 3rd.

Here's my item for today:

Blue and Orange and Brown...Mmmm (Blank Greeting Card)

This is the challenge member I am profiling for the day:

IsabellaFlora Elegant Greeting Cards
By a Father and a Daughter

Isabella and her ninety-one year old father find inspiration from flowers and botanicals. Together they make classically beautiful greeting cards. Isabella is a watercolor artist and her father is the photographer. Below I posted links to both her "item of the day" and my favorite item in her shop.

Pink Petticoats Card

Oak Leaves Card

Please check out her shop, as well as those of the other challenge participants!