Mia Bella Collection

2011-12-17T10:46:00.001-07:00

::~ Christmas Sale ~::

50% OFF
Jewelry & Bead Supplies

Going on Now -thru- Dec 31
Simply click any of the sites listed below to start shopping!

Bead Supply shop: ArtFire
50% Off All Reg Bead & Pendant Supplies
Good thru Dec 31th
Use Coupon Code: HOLIDAY2011
Over 1,350 supply items to choose from!!

Finished Jewelry: My Website - ArtFire
50 % Off All Reg Jewelry Items
Good thru Dec 31th
Use Coupon Code: HOLIDAY2011
Over 855 listings of gorgeous goodies! Check the Clearance Sections & the 50%OFF Sterling Gem items too!

Please note: Please check my shop announcements for more details. Discount is not available or applied to previous orders. All sales final.
*Orders rec'd from my Yahoo jewelry website will receive a sale refund via PayPal.*

2011-04-20T14:37:00.008-06:00

Springtime Keepsakes for Mom
50%OFF Jewelry & Bead Supplies
Going on Now - thru May 8th

Simply click any of the sites listed below to start shopping!

Bead Supply shop: ArtFire
50% Off ALL Reg Bead & Pendant Supplies
Good thru May 8th
Use Coupon Code: MOM-2011

Finished Jewelry: My Website - ArtFire
50% OFF ALL Reg Jewelry Items
Good thru May 8th
Use Coupon Code: MOM-2011
Over 900 listings of gorgeous goodies!

Please note: Please check each of my shop announcements for all the details. Discount is not available or applied to previous orders, current sale, or discounted items. All sales final.
*Orders rec'd from my Yahoo jewelry website will receive a sale refund via PayPal.*

Rockin' Every Month

2010-12-03T08:23:00.004-07:00

Power Rocks Every Month
Want to give a gift with meaning? Find out what a stone means and attach it to the rock or gem!

Crystals and gemstones are awesome accents to any piece of jewelry, but did you know each sparkly stone holds a special meaning? I’m not really into the ‘metaphysical world’ or know much about Chakras … BUT I think it’s cool to know the the symbolism, history, and meaning behind the stones we love… PLUS it’s an added bonus to know the info about stones if you’re giving them as a gift for friends/loved ones (Christmas, anyone?).

We all probably know our birthstones, but do you know the meaning behind them?

The American National Association of Jewelers (Jewelers of America) chose the stones for each month and it was officially accepted in 1912.

Here’s a list of meanings associated with each month’s birthstone:

January: Garnet (usually red) stands for FAITH and some ‘meanings’ associated with it has been constancy of friendship, and even thought to bring success to a new business.
February: Amethyst (usually purple) stands for PEACE or WISDOM and also known as the Bishop’s stone, and it’s still worn by Catholic Bishops today. It’s also thought to help with insomnia and bring pleasant dreams.
March: Aquamarine (blue-green) stands for LOVE and has been known as the “Water of the Sea” because of its color and was thought to help protect sailors at sea.
April: Diamond (usually clear) stands for VIRTUE and is known to represent constancy in relationships (makes sense.)
May: Emerald (usually green) stands for WEALTH and is also thought to preserve love.
June: Pearl (usually white) stands for BEAUTY and is thought to promote prosperity and success.
July: Ruby (usually red) stands for PASSION and is thought to bring passion and bring out the courage to be the best the wearer can be.
August: Peridot (usually light green) stands for DIGNITY and is thought to help ward off negative emotions.
September: Sapphire (usually dark blue) stands for CLARITY and is thought to help the wearer with perception and promote financial success as well.
October: Opal (usually sparkly white) stands for PURITY and is thought to help with luck.
November: Topaz or Citrine (alternative) (usually golden color) stands for HOPE and Citrine is thought to increase self-esteem.
December: Turquoise or Blue Topaz (alternative) (blue) stands for STRENGTH and turquoise is thought to also bring peace to your home.

Snow Removal Crew

2010-11-22T09:19:00.008-07:00

Baby, it's waaaay cold outside! Yea, like 7* degrees! Acccck!!! It's finally arrived ... S.N.O.W. I have one word on the subject - Blech. We had one of the loveliest Fall seasons to date, so I'm spoiled. I admit it.
Ok, ok, ok ... I'll try to remind myself of those days when it used to warm my lil' romantic heart seeing tiny flakes falling... *Perhaps, I was nuts along, who knew?* So I'm not looking forward to shovels, snow boots, gloves, muddy salt, ice covered roads, and dead car batteries. I know, whine whine whine... But, I think I finally reached that point in life ... I've become an 'old poop'.

I try to look for the "oh, fun ...Snow! ". Funny, but I'm not seeing it or finding it ... anywhere. Yup, that's me wearing the big snow-party-pooper hat. Here we go, months of snowy mornings when a Snow Removal Crew is needed for snow removal. Oh, joy. *sigh* So I'll have to add to my errand list the rancher's outlet for 50lb bags of cracked corn. *Shhh, just don't tell the GF&P!!* The Hub's says "You know, they'll throw you in jail for feeding Turkeys" ... I reply back "Really? Well all I have to say is -- why haven't they thrown me in jail for feeding the Chickadees? Good grief."

So after writing this, I realize that I'm very thankful I'm not a Turkey. However, I did just realize I've become a whining spoiled human-turkey. Not good. Oooooh yes, Lord ... I heard you and I'm very sorry for my selfishness. Thank You so much for sending the Snow Removal Crew this morning. Also, thank You for reminding me it's Thanksgiving week. I have so much to be grateful for ... especially for being allowed another day waking to see our 1st snow fall.

I think I'll go eat that a big slice of humble pie for breakfast now. :)

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2010-10-03T16:18:00.002-06:00

~ Octoberfest Sale ~

40%OFF Jewelry & Bead Supplies

Going on Now - thru the end of October
Simply click any of the sites listed below to start shopping!

Bead Supply shop: ArtFire
All Reg Bead 7 Pendant Supplies
Good thru Oct 31st
Use Coupon Code: Fall-2010

Finished Jewelry: My Website - ArtFire
All Reg Jewelry Items
Good thru Oct 31st
Use Coupon Code: Fall-2010
Over 915 listings of gorgeous goodies! Check the Clearance & 50%OFF Sterling gem items too!!

Please note: Please check my shop announcements for more details. Discount is not available or applied to previous orders. All sales final.
*Orders rec'd from my Yahoo jewelry website will receive a sale refund via PayPal.*

Lazy Days of Summer

2010-08-09T10:32:00.014-06:00

We've been having the lazy days of summer ... well, at least the cats have them. Actually, Kit & I have been quite busy this summer. Sound familiar? He's been very occupied with creating many avenues w/his meat company and it's been very exciting for him. I'm thrilled that his dream is coming to fruition. He's also keeps himself busy w/the yard work and chasing the deer from the flower garden. *I think he likes them coming around, it gives him a reason to shoot the paint-ball gun! HA!!* My dream is to one day have a flower garden that will have oodles these flowers ... that don't get eaten. I hate Bambi.
Since I don't have the flower garden of my dreams, I have to play w/beads most of the summer. Like that's something new. Not. (Yes, I so LOVE doing it!) At times, my beading batteries need a jump-start. So while they're charging up, I offer a few sales thru the summer and they are always rec'd w/a terrific response from the most wonderful customers anywhere! **Thanks so much ladies!!** At the moment, I'm trying to muster up a big pile of inspiration & energy to create NEW beauties for fall. However, I have to finish the last of the little lovelies (below) that I began a little while ago ... THEN I can dive into the rock pile I have waiting for me just yonder. *sigh* I can be my own worst Boss, who's always making more work for me to do!! Sound familiar?

I finally admitted to myself (since I was listening to myself the other day) that sitting at my desk like a lump on log doesn't get the job done. "No, s**t Sherlock." I really do like surfin' the net and I find so many stunning beautiful designs, yet I'm not struck by a bolt of energy -- which I always hope will do the trick. Drats. It's not until I start diggin' into my bead bins ("you mean your loot bins", as Kit puts it) that's when I'm simply flooded w/oodles of ideas. I actually overwhelm myself ... 'cause I come up with sooo MANY that I don't know exactly where to start. But I do have a HUGE pile of beads about 2-3feet high on trays (I kid you not). So I pick up this pendant, that strand of pearls, those briolettes, a few other accent beads, and get right to work. Before I know it, the day becomes night and I've crank out a TON of new gorgeous things. Success!
My sister always shakes her head at the amount I can complete in one day -- "how can one person get soooo much done?" she asks. Whelp, the way I see it is that's the gift I've been given. Human factory- that is me. Which I'm very grateful for. So when you're blessed with being able to do what you LOVE (a career) it doesn't feel like work at all. I crank & turn the gift-valve a little, then creative energy begins to flow through me, all the while I keep my mind/heart open to receive the abundance coming from above. I know I make it sound easy and it is most days ... but at times, I need a rest from beads and focus on other things in life. 'Cause joy is found in many simple everyday things I tend to forget about. However, with this last paragraph, I'm itchin' to get over to my work table! It's time to put on my apron and get to work!Like you, I visit a few of my fav blogs to find jolts of color, a spark or something that will ignite a new vision, they fill me with soooo many wonderful ideas. These are just a few of my fav's:
Reata Rose (my sister's beautiful creation)
The Rusted Chain
The Paris Apartment
Happy Loves Rosie my favorite color is shiny

I hope you're having a beautiful lazy summer day! Blessings.

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Christmas in July Sale

2010-07-01T10:13:00.005-06:00

~ Christmas in July Sale ~

40% OFF Reg Items
July 8 - July 31
Click on the links below to start shopping!

Jewelry Website
Bunches of NEW items just added, many more NEW pages, and oodles of jewelry to drool over!!
Sale discount & combined ship chg's refunded after payment is rec'd via PayPal.
*Sale Discount not applied to current sale or clearance items. Domestic jewelry orders are shipped USPS priority.

ArtFire Bead Supply Shop
Over 1,600 listings ~ FREE Frangia Coral Bead Strand with every order!!
Use Coupon Code: JulyXmas
*Sale discount not applied to or on Dollar Beads, Discount Pends, or Ship supplies.

ArtFire Jewelry Shop
Over 925 listings of gorgeous goodies! Just listed new Clearance items too!!
Use Coupon Code: JulyXmas
*Sale discount not applied to current sale item or clearance items. Domestic jewelry orders are shipped USPS priority.

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Mother's Day Sale

2010-04-26T07:32:00.011-06:00

Mother's Day Sale
35% OFF Reg Items
Apr 26 - May 9

Thanks so much for making my Mother's day so sweet....thank you again!

Little Something for Mom

2010-04-12T08:13:00.003-06:00

I've been working on creating a bunch of sweet little gemstone & freshwater pearl earring beauties ... gorgeous little somethings ... lovely little sparkling ear candy for Mother's Day. As we all know, wonderful things come in small packages. All sorts of little treats ... such as long linear designs, simple & bold, dainty and demure, dancing dangles, embellished hoops, and more!! They'll debut and be listed at my website.

I create all the shaped sterling earwires, which really fires up my creativity! So many ideas, so little time ... not a new problem for me, but an always existing one! LOL My poor chaotic worktable is just covered with all kinds of little gems, pearls, briolettes, and several coils sterling wire. For some odd reason, I thrive and become very productive when I create "organized chaos". I'm filled with oodles of inspiration and visions of sugar-plums of what to make next.

If I completely clean up the table, it's like putting away all the crayons I color with ... so I intentionally leave a little mess of beads. Because by the next day, I'll know exactly what I want to do with that "little mess" and create something very lovely that may have never occurred to me had they been 'out of sight and out of mind'. :)

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Little Meows

2010-03-24T14:37:00.003-06:00

These are our five newest little meows, they're only a few days old here. As of today, they're 1wk old....yes, more baby pics to follow! They're just beginning to open their eyes to the world and make teenyweeny little mew sounds....lots of mmm'ing goes on too! Which we hear during the night and early morning hours because MaMaKitty decided the closet would make for a good nursery! I completely agree. :D

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Easter Sale!!

2010-03-14T21:50:00.011-06:00

Easter Sale!!

35%OFF Reg Items
Extended thru April 11th

A BIG thank you for making the sale so successful!

A Lot of Work Comes in 1 Little Box

2010-03-11T08:05:00.005-07:00

Ooofda, a lot of work can come in one little box! Today's "gotta-get-it-done" is to create/attach a sterling earwire for each one of these little lovelies. I've gotten all my NEW necklaces listed at my website, these are next line for photos & write-up's ... scads of beautiful little gems & pearlies! Most all of them have a necklace that they match too. :)
The next newbies earrings coming up will be more gem brios & longer styles. Soooo many beads ... soooo little time. Sound familiar?

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Itty Bitty Beads

2010-03-10T07:20:00.005-07:00

Itty bitty beads ... so lovely, so delicate, so pretty, and so feminine!
Wanna' see them? Then click ----> HERE

Organized Chaos

2010-03-05T13:19:00.012-07:00

I dream of having one of those perfect designer studios where everything has it's place, it's always tidy and highly organized, beautifully decorated with comfy chairs - pillows - pictures - fresh flowers, very well lit with scads of natural light streaming in, and so on.... A girl can dream. Sound familiar to your dream too?

Whelp, for the time being my comfy little work space has to house my entire "bead supply shop" AND include my "jewelry factory" ... so it's gotten a little cramped over the last few years. I'm not complaining and I suppose it could be alot worse as far as space goes. Many don't believe that I create all the beaded items I offer -- trust me, I have plenty of stuff to prove I've got the goods to do allllll that beading! LOL I've learned to work well and be very productive in my 'organized chaos' situation. My mascot Wilma Flintstone is always encouraging, and BobSqPants throws me a giggle when I need a pick-me-up ... they don't seem to mind the chaos ... much. Heck, I even have help to "hold the fort down" too. It appears my work-table is a pretty comfy place for a nap at times too. Sweet dreams ... the two brothers are our tag-team nappers!In my little world, there's too many beads ... never enough time. So it's back to work for me! Oh yea, I just listed over 50 NEW necklaces at my website & 50 more to go!!
Please take a ----> LQQK

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Giving comes from the heart....

2010-02-19T11:49:00.007-07:00

When the horrific tragedy happened in Haiti, I wanted help in more ways than $one$, but wasn't sure what it would end up being.

One day, while I was twittering ... one my lovely customers I follow, Beki, was tweeting about a necklace she designed and was making a $10 donation from each sale. I clicked on the necklace link and noticed it included a freshwater pearl and that she had (at that time) sold more than 230!! WOW!!! I tweeted to her asking if she needed more pearls and that I'd be so happy to help by donating ivory pearls for the cause.

Here's the rest of the story....

I copied this is from Beki's blog today 2/09/10:

"When I decided to sell the Blessed necklaces for Haiti, it was a split second decision. (I'm good at those...)
I hadn't even thought about cost of the product involved in making the orders.

The orders began pouring in.
I contacted a few companies hoping someone would match our donation. No one did.
Our story was submitted to local tv stations, but they didn't pick up on it.
We were a bit disappointed by the lack of support from local people and big bloggers who had no interest in helping the cause grow.
But obviously God knows what he's doing.
There was huge support overseas, particularly Australia, and across the US. Just not locally.

And out of the blue one day I got a note on twitter from Beth that said, "Can I donate pearls?"
Oh my goodness! YES! What a huge blessing that was!!
She donated hundreds of gorgeous pearls and didn't expect anything in return.

So thank you Beth for listening to God's little whisper to you!
It allowed us to donate over US $3,000.00 to help Haiti and we wouldn't have been able to do it without you."

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I felt it was the least I could do to help Beki in her fund raising efforts, as she has been a long-time customer of mine. But more importantly, to me it was a simple act of giving and giving back that would hopefully help in the aide for those suffering so badly so far away.
~Beth

What am I up to....BEADING! What else?

2010-02-15T11:36:00.005-07:00

I've been selling supplies like crazy! Everybody must be beading!! I know I am ... I've been making & taking time to hit the worktable all this last month. I've got a bunch of photos of new things posted on my website, but I have to get their descrip's finished -- I simply run out of brain power for creative writing at the end of the day. Ooey.

Boy, have I been a busy lil' beader, let me tell you!! While cleaning out my bead bins & storage boxes to list bead supplies for the Valentine's Day sale, I re-discovered a bunch of tidbits I had totally forgotten about ... "out of site, out of mind" really fits here! Re-finding those gorgeous goodies really gave me a boost and jump-start I needed. Yay!!

Ok, enough chitchat ... gotta' get back to the worktable! Today's project is to complete all the earrings that will match the necklaces above. Hope you're having a productive day! I am!! :D

Valentine's Day Sale

2010-01-24T17:17:00.015-07:00

Valentine's Day Sale

I L.♥.V.E beads!! BIG Valentine's Day Sale
Is now over...thanks to all who made it a success!

ArtFire Bead Supply Shop
Over 1,750 listings ~ FREE Purple Frangia Coral bead strand with every order!!

ArtFire Jewelry Shop
over 600 listings of gorgeous goodies! Just listed new Clearance items too!!

Website

Sale discount & combined ship chgs refunded via PayPal after order is placed

*Sale Discount not applied to current sale or clearance items.*

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WARNING!! This is addictive - I won't be held responsible!!

2009-12-28T09:22:00.005-07:00

I am absolutely addicted to Archer Farms Chocolate Drizzle! But, I can't seem to land a bag of this deeelisheeeous stuff when I go to Target! Sooooo I made up my own recipe!! Enjoy :D

Beth's Chili Chocolate Chex Mix

Crunch Mix:
2 boxes of Honey Nut Chex cereal
2 cups pretzels (any shape will do)
1 - 2 cups toffee candy-coated peanuts
2 - 3 cups other chex cereals (your choice wheat, corn, or rice)
Pour all dry ingredients into lg roaster pan

Sauce:
1/2 c butter or margarine
3 Tbsp brown sugar
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper*
2 Tbsp Worcester sauce
1/2 tsp liquid smoke
2 - 3 tsp hot sauce*
*adjust the amount of heat to your preference*
Melt butter & brn sugar together, then stir in remaining ingredients - stir 'til sugar is dissolved and sauce is well combined. Drizzle small amounts over cereals & gently fold in, repeat until well coated.

Heat oven 250 degrees -- Bake 15 min's intervals gently stirring mix each time for 60 min's.
Spread mix onto lg cookie sheets or jelly roll pans.

Drizzle Topping:
1 each - 12 oz bag white chocolate & milk chocolate chips
1 - 6.8oz bar Hershey's Milk Chocolate (break into lg pc's)
Kosher salt (omit if you wish)

Microwave white choc chips in glass container for 1 minute on low power, repeat 'til smooth - drizzle over dry mix. Repeat same process with combined milk chocolate chips and broken pc's of chocolate bar - drizzle over mix. Sprinkle small pinches of kosher salt over coated mix and cool completely. Store in air tight containers or ziplock bags, then in cool location or 'fridge.

Merry Christmas from our house!

2009-12-19T17:23:00.013-07:00

~ Can you have too many ornaments on a Christmas tree? No! ~

~ Not to self: "Try not eat too may goodies ... yea, maybe next year!" ~

~ Our little mantle forest ~

~ H o m e ~

~ P E A C E ~

~ Wishing everyone a very loving Merry Christmas & a wonderfully happy Holiday! ~

Feeding Our Song Birds

2009-12-12T12:14:00.012-07:00

I made up a batch of Birdie Feeder Treats the other day. It's very easy and fun to do w/the kids!

Treat Mixture:
2 - 3 c bread crumbs, old crackers, old bread, old Cheerios, etc... (I used old freezer burned buns & bread that I forgot were in the freezer)
1 cup birdseed
3 uncored apples - chopped
1 c raisins
1/2 dry fruit - chopped
1 c crisco or lard
1 c sugar
1 - 2 c peanut butter (use more or less depending on amt of dry bread/crackers/cereal used)
1/2 c whole wheat flour
1/3 c cornmeal

Very easy to do -- it doesn't have to be accurate, add more or less of what you may want or need too -- use up some things you may already have on hand.

Heat / microwave on low the lard & p-butter until soft for stirring, then fold / stir in dry ingredients. Mix until you have a crumbly sticky dough (sorta' like choc chip cookie dough). Can freeze any remaining mix for later date.

Feeders:
10 - 12 pine cones / several produce netting bags / 10 - 12 orange or grapefruit rind cups (fruit cut in 1/2 w/pulp removed)
string or yarn

To prepare your feeders: wrap 24in piece of string/yarn around the base of the pine cone (bottom petals) and/or 3 strings of equal length threaded thru and knotted in 1/3 sections of the citrus ring cups for hanging. Then carefully press treat mix in between and into pine cones, or fill citrus cups. Or fill the produce plastic net bags and then tie-off the bag's end closed w/12in string and knot (the string ends) for hanging. Hang from tree branches or near your bird feeder location.

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2009-12-02T10:08:00.009-07:00

50% OFF jewelry ... need I say more? HA!! Click here or here to start shopping right now! Take advantage of this very special 1st time offer!

Last day for USPS Priority is Dec 21st -- all orders shipped Priority Mail.

Quoting dear ol' Santa "Ho! Ho! Ho! ... Merry Christmas!!"

Quick Links ~ Jewelry Shops: Yahoo Website & ArtFire

Need beads? FREE Shipping on all Orders $50 & over!!
Bead Shop: ArtFire Beads

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2009-12-02T10:03:00.003-07:00

It's time for decorating ... even in Heaven.

Angels, no doubt, are getting busy dusting stars and moonbeams ... hanging some extra shiny touches to shine thru every night. I'll be looking for a very special bright Star to hang a silent prayer on come the 24th ... I'll be celebrating a special birthday. :)

For me, He is the Reason for the Season.

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2009-11-06T08:49:00.016-07:00

~ 1st Anniversary Sale ~

My 1st Anniversary has now ended ... thank you so much to all who participated and took advantage of my sale!

------------------------------------------------------

Discount was not applied or offered on current Clearance/Sale items. Sale does not include Dollar Beads or Shipping Supplies.
Thanks for stopping by! :)

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Follow my Blog ... Win this FREE Gem Bracelet!!

2009-11-05T13:52:00.010-07:00

Win Me!!

~ A Christmas Contest ~
Simply follow my blog and you'll be entered!

Taaaa Daaaaa!! Congratulations to Tres Chic Designs Jewelry - she won my 'follow me' blog contest!!

My DH drew her email from a hat that contained all the follower names Sunday night.

Again, congratulations to Sharon and thank you all for "ho, ho, ho ... thanks for the follow!!"

Have yourself a very Merry Christmas!
Kind Regards,
Beth

The prize:
1 - Sterling Gemstone Bracelet
Faceted Rock Crystal Nuggets & Sm Garnet accent stones
set in heavy .925 sterling & toggle closure
length 7 1/2in

The Details:
Follow my Blog & Leave Contact Info before 12/06/09
I'll be drawing one follower Sun 12/06/09

My email: miahasbeads@gmail.com
*Please make sure I have a valid way to contact you by email. US residents only.*

Ho! Ho! Ho! ... thanks for the follow! :D
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Good-Bye Yahoooo...

2009-11-02T13:09:00.004-07:00

A quick note for my bead supply customers:

I closed my Yahoo bead store today. It was running $130 a month compared to ArtFire which is $7 a month -- a no brainer decision! I still have my Yahoo website for finished jewelry.

Please visit my ArtFire Bead Shop if you haven't already ... you'll find oodles of beads & pend's 1,500 listings and over 170 $Dollar Beads right now!!

Mia Bella Collection Beads @ ArtFire

Mia Bella Collection Jewelry @ ArtFire

Mia Bella Collection Jewelry @ Yahoo

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Want Some?

2009-10-19T15:53:00.007-06:00

~ Who Wants Cake? ~

I love cake ... all cakes ... all flavors ... with frosting ... without frosting ... I LOVE CAKE!! Yesterday, I had my sons and family gathered together at our house for a belated birthday bash supper ... to celebrate all the birthdays we didn't get to share together. Hot on the grill were Mini Bacon Burgers, Garlic-Parm Tater Wedges, Baby Greens Salad & Vine Ripe Tomatoes ... and of coarse ... Birthday CAKE!! I made sure I saved room for my little path to chocolate heaven. For me, this is the BEST and EASIEST way to a REAL chocolate high!

Note to Self: "Sorry, heaven maybe calorie free....but this is definitely NOT." :D

Easy Path to Chocolate Heaven

~ Grease Bundt pan - Preheat 350*
1 choc cake mix
1 box instant choc pudding
5 eggs
1/2 c. melted butter
2 c. sour cream
1/3 c. veg oil
1/2 tsp. almond extract
~ Mix all at Low speed 'til moist, then mix at Med Speed for 4 mins. Reserve 1 c. batter. Pour into pan.

1 c. choc chips
1/4 c. dk cocoa power
1 c. cake batter (reserved)
~ Stir together 'til well mixed. Spoon dollups of dk chip filling on top of batter, and then cut w/a knife into each dollup so it will swirl within the center of the cake, a few simple cuts is all that is needed.
~Bake 45 - 50 min's (toothpic check, so you don't over bake)
Cool. Place on cake plate add any of the following: desired frosting, a glaze, a light dusting of powder sugar, ice cream, or sliced strawberries! Yummy!!

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2009-09-30T20:23:00.007-06:00

~ Shades of Fall Sale ~
40%OFF Jewelry & Bead Supplies
Ends Sunday Oct 18th
Simply click any of the sites listed below to start shopping!
Finished Jewelry: My Website - ArtFire - 1000Markets
Bead Supply shops: ArtFire

Please note: Discount is not available or applied to previous orders. All sales final.
*Orders rec'd from 1000Markets, Lollishops, and Yahoo jewelry will receive a sale refund via payment origin - either PayPal or Amazon.*
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I really am a Pirate....arrrrrrrh!

2009-09-27T10:03:00.006-06:00

...or at least it looks like I have Pirate booty! Peruvian opal, aquamarine, freshwater pearls, moonstone, turquoise, coral, faceted gemstones, pendants and oodles of more goodies to come. These are some NEW pieces I've been working on this month....check back, there's MORE to do!! waaahoooooo....

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Who Ordered the Bowl Full of Gemmies?

2009-09-23T14:11:00.011-06:00

I've been taking a little break. Sorta'. I tried the just hangin' around, like BusterBrownKitty pictured below ... but the stump was not all that comfy. So I started to play w/all my pretty little beads (like that's sumthin' new ... NOT) and quickly found myself at the work-table every morning (yes, in my jammies). O.M.Gosh, I forget how happy I am when I'm creative!! I get so bogged down w/listing, bead sales, and shipping that I'm too tired to be creative and/or just too dang tired looking at beads to start the beading process. Oy vey.

Take a look at all the pretty little earrings in the simple little bowl....now imagine this -- I've created necklaces to match nearly every single pair!! Plus, there's another little bowl of more earrings I'm beginning to fill up (yep, necklaces to match too). Needless to say, I'm a very productive little beader!! Can't help it. Some people take a break and don't do much, for me this is like not doing much, 'cause I like doing soooo much. Yes, I know....."she must be ill." LOL

The other day while trying not to do anything -- that's not so easy to do, unless your a couch potato, (OK, I confess I have my couch potato moments) I had a "Eureka!" moment....create a Clearance Sale section at my jewelry site!

Sometimes, I'm as dense as a post. So very shortly I'll be filling up a few pg's of Clearance items (more like alot of pg's!). Have to gear up for the Holiday Shoppers, you know. If you'd like to rec' an email sale flyer, sign up at my site ... then you can snag some Super Deals!!

Eeep! Gotta' head back to the work-table....an idea just popped up in my head on how to use those chrysoprase nuggets. Stay tuned for a few more quick peeks at my NEW STUFF!

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Time to take a lil break

2009-09-01T16:55:00.004-06:00

So far it's a Beee.U.Tee.Full early fall....but i've been cooped up in my 'woman cave' slaving away w/bead & jewelry sales. I actually believe I've turned Day-Glow!! acck! However, all that effort really paid off, my son won't have to take out a student loan for his Sr year! *doing cartwheels* Thank you again!!

Now it's time for a much needed little break for Mom....away from ----> the computer, the beads, twittering, the shops, all that on-line stuff! I may be able to really focus on having some 1-on-1 time with ME and just my work table getting creative again. My heart needs to express and my brain needs the exercise! :D

If you stop by, you may just find me perched on the stump just like lil' Buster up above....just hangin' around taking it easy for a few weeks.....just what the Dr ordered!

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Life is Sweet Sale!! Ends Aug 31st

2009-08-01T15:29:00.017-06:00

Life is Sweet Sale ... has Ended

A BIG thank you to all my wonderful customers for making a super success!!

Simply click any of the sites listed below.
Bead shops: ArtFire -&- My Website
Finished Jewelry: 1000Markets - ArtFire - My Website

Please note: Discount is not available or applied to previous orders. All sales final.

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A Little Peek....

2009-06-18T10:42:00.007-06:00

Here's a little sneak peek in our A-Frame -- the main floor is entirely Cottage Shabby Chic. My sister loves visiting and says it's like being in a doll house -- she loves it when we spend girl time together among all my girly things. :) *The crock pot is not normally parked there, it's acutally working! This pic was taken on Thanksgiving....yum!*

I long for the day when I can go shopping again to garage sales, thrift shops, and antique shops as I have always LOVED the look of shabby chic (before it had a name). I actually started collecting shabby chic cottage things as a small child some 40yrs ago, which explains why I have completely NO more storage room! LOL Until I clean out and purge - NO shopping! I need to sort, let go, and make room for cherished newbies.

We're having a neighborhood community garage sale in about 10days....a perfect time to clean out & purge!! Then I can go shabby shopping....yippee!

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A Driveway Weed & Bambi's Gang

2009-06-17T10:34:00.009-06:00

Each year my lovely little periwinkle Columbine pops up in the same spot....and the DH tries each year to kill it, claiming she's a weed. NOT!! I had planted her about 4ft behind where she is now, in a flower box...but she likes the driveway gravel better. :) A bunch of her babes popped up this year...yipeee!

Since she's close to the house, our local Deer Gang haven't been brave enough to EAT her. BUT my other little wild pink-bonnet Columbine, which is fully loaded w/blossoms, wasn't so lucky. Bambi stripped her of all but 1 little leaf!! Bambi does the same thing w/all my Hollihocks too. They turn them into Toothpick Plants by stripping each stalk clean of all the leaves & blossoms. It is totally depressing to say the least. :(

Each Fall, I try spreading seeds from all the flowers that survive. Then in the Spring, Bambi usually gobbles them up for lunch. I never thought I'd hate Bambi. They ruin my flower garden every year and all attempts I've made for having one. *tearful sigh* I don't fall for those dewy-dark brown-eyes anymore -- NO WAY. What I see are great big RATS now!! So I've waged war on Bambi & his gang. The paint ball gun is locked & loaded. Have you ever seen a hot pink polka-dotted deer? Stay tuned!!

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Ooops, I spilled the Good Wine!!

2009-06-16T17:02:00.006-06:00

Oppsy! I just spilled the 'Good Wine' freshwater coin pearls all over the place!! What a klutz.... Aren't they all so ~G.O.R.G.E.O.U.S~ laying in this lusterous puddle?! LOL I just finished listing a bunch of coin pearls in my ArtFire Bead Shop. You should check them out!

Right here-----> Mia Bella Collection
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Unexpected Arrival

2009-06-14T10:04:00.006-06:00

This morning we woke to find 2 'NEW' additions to the family....and we weren't aware that they were on their way! Skinny-minny Little Miss had her 2 tiny healthy babes waaaay back in my closet. She & babes are doing very well...behind my fall/winter clothing! :D

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Yes, I do the all beading myself....

2009-06-12T11:11:00.008-06:00

People always ask me with skepticism in their voice "do you really make all your items?" ... I politely reply "Yes, I do, thank you for asking." ... "You're kidding, right?" ... "Nope. I buy all the supplies and assemble them all myself. It's my passion!" :D

Then they will say "so you make up your prices?" ... and again I reply w/a smile "well, someone has too -- as they don't come all put together or tagged ... I really do all the beading. Honest!" I sold so many of my NEW pieces while in CA (very similar to the ones above), that I didn't even have a chance to take pics! Drats!! I guess I better make more....LOL

Here are two trays piled high with gorgeeeeous projects that I piled up yesterday. *I'm soooo into gems matched with freshwater pearls at the moment, can you tell?* I couldn't stop myself and didn't get to bed until way past 12midnight! *yawn* This weekend I'll be ... can you guess? BEADING!! I can't wait to dive in and get started!

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2009-06-07T18:50:00.006-06:00

~ You are my Sunshine ~

With all the rain we've been having and needing to wear my flannel jammies ... in June, 4CripesSakes! I needed some bright warm sunshine ... so I created some!

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2009-06-05T11:39:00.019-06:00

~ Light Hands Horsemanship Clinic ~

Right now here in the Black Hills, we've an abundance of beautiful early summer 'green'. I couldn't help myself from being influenced by the lush green & early blooms surrounding me! *Hence, the gorgeous green beauties shown above.*

These are only a few pieces I finished up for our big sales trip to Santa Ynez Valley, CA -- which was like visiting Emerald City from the land of Oz. I was super busy creating and gathering up all my 'rocks' in order to set up my mini jewelry shop -- along side my DH's meat company's booth. Yep, all the gals swooned, ooo'd & ahhh'd, and scooped up oodles of my baubles!! Yipeee...yeeeehaw!
http://site.miabellajewelryshop.com/home
http://www.apmeats.com/home

We were attending (as vendors) the Light Hands Horsemanship Clinic held in the Santa Ynez Valley.
http://www.lighthandshorsemanship.com/home
http://www.lighthandshorsemanship.com/vendors.htm

My sister who's very good friends with Eitan & Debbie Beth-Halachmy, are the folks who invited us to attend. First, Eitan, this is a man who dreamt of being a cowboy coming from a far away place with nuthin' but 2 nickles in his pocket on a good day and became one one of the most decorated equine riders to date. Second is Debbie, his beautiful bride, and she says "Eitan does everything on the saddle, I do everything off the saddle". She ain't kiddin'. This is one very savy business-brain behind all their horse-scenes, let me tell you! Take a looong look at their incredible site and their outstanding accomplishments:
http://www.cowboydressage.com/home

The clinic was held and hosted at Intrepid Farms, owned by Art Perry. The nicest gentlemen and very attentive host, I must say. He's the fellow you've watched for the last 28yrs riding his steed being the distinguished Grand Marshall Horseman during each New Year's Rose Parade in Pasadena, Ca. His vast collection of beautiful silver embellished saddles and elaborate twinkling costumes displayed in his private museum is absolutely incredible!! Take a look at his place ... you'll drool too!
http://www.intrepidfarms.com/

I have wonderful loyal customer that I was finally able to meet in person, Sandra Nelson. She's just a little bitty thing, but she has her own kind of horsepower!! She nearly hauled off with 1/2 my inventory...okok, not 1/2 but at least a 1/4 of it! LOL *Thank you so much, Sandra!!* She's another accomplished breeder who raises fantastic Morgans, but don't take my word for it ... check it out for yourself! Simply click below to view Sandra's collection:
http://www.madisonavenuemorgans.com

Also, the national magazine 'Cowboys & Indians' was there, one of their lovely little photographer/journalist was taking photos and gathering info to do a write-up for a future 2010 issue. *She bought several bracelets & earrings from me! Yipeeee....*
http://www.cowboysindians.com/home/

There is so much more to share and so many wonderfully kind folks we met for the short time we were there -- we hope to see them next year. :D Even though our road trip ended up being the "road trip from H__L" due to all the mechanical prob's w/the Grama-camper including her 3 blown-out tires on the way ... we lived to tell the tale! I cherish my new memories and won't be forgetting any time soon.

Now that I've got my mojo-beading blood rev'd up and sold a bunch ... it's time to head back to the work-table and crank out more bauble beauties!!

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I Remember....

2009-05-24T11:01:00.004-06:00

Remembering all our beloved fallen Heroes and all who've passed that contributed greatly in making our USA the best place on Earth!!

~ God Bless the USA ~
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Love at First Sight

2009-05-08T11:17:00.005-06:00

A Mother's Love begins at First Sight
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A Love for Faceted Sparkles

2009-05-03T12:00:00.009-06:00

Faceted Gemstone Briolettes

Faceted Freshwater Pearls

Cubic Zirconia Briolettes

I find it soooo incredibly hard to pass up ANYTHING that's faceted! You too? So I'm letting everyone know I'm listing stunning gemstone briolettes, genuine faceted freshwater pearls (which aren't so easy to come by), and sparkling little cubic zirconia briolettes ... along with just about anything else I rediscover in my bead bins or get my hands!! Please stop by and check out these beauties including all the others I just listed in my shop. These beauties are simply perfect for creating delicate 'ear candy' goodies or any jewelry hound who loves being creative with faceted loveliness! :D

LQQK right here -----> My ArtFire Shop

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2009-04-27T11:42:00.009-06:00

~ An Anniversary Gift ~

Our Anniversary will be taking place in early May ... the Lord brought into my life a ray of light which showed me how to trust another again. This wonderful man is my best friend, my pillar of strength, my inspiration, my comfort place, and my partner in life. I am blessed every morning as he invites me into his life everyday ... silently ... as I do him. He and I finally found what true love really feels like. Not the love you share with dear family, precious children, and others in your life....those receive a lovely but different kind of love.

What I've learned the most is that a friend is a gift you give yourself, in order to do so, you have to become one. Beyond all the romance, passion's short self life, and all the marketed ideas of what ought to happen or be like -- which I value with all my heart....it's our friendship that's the biggest gift of all and means the most to me. It's what our Love is based on....a solid foundation of trust and honesty. His heart is the sweetest gift I've ever received and I can't even hold it my hand. But it does come all gift wrapped in a manly-style with ribbons of the softest lips I could ever ask for!

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Hi, I'm Beth....I'm a Turquoise Addict

2009-04-25T09:06:00.006-06:00

~ Turquoise ~

Here's a few tidbits of folklore on one my most fav' stones....it's been coveted for centuries! I truly understand why -- just look at all those fantastic rainbows of blue, teal, olive, rich charcoal matrix and hints tobacco-tan...*swoon*.

Turquoise is the one of the official birth stones for the month of December as adopted by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912 and the Planetary stone for Aquarius, Taurus and Sagittarius.

The name turquoise is apparently related to the fact that is was brought to Europe from the Eastern Mediterranean by Levantine traders, more commonly known as Turks. Its been used as a valuable ornament for ages and was used by the Egyptians thousands of years ago. The color is, of course, turquoise, but its range of color varies from green and greenish blue to sky blue shades.

For centuries, the most valuable turquoise came from Iran (Persia) but today some specimens mined in the southwestern United States compete with it. The name "Persian Turquoise" is now generally used to refer to any turquoise stone that does not have the black or brown veining commonly found in turquoise mined in the United States and used in a style of jewelry created by the American Indians.

The Aztecs mined turquoise in an area now known as New Mexico and a significant amount of turquoise comes from Arizona, California and Nevada in the United States. China has also been found to have very large mining opportunities & quantities of turquoise. China's turquoise mines offer many colors and varieties -- along with large bead manufacturing factories.

Other minerals like chrysocolla have been used to imitate turquoise. Turquoise is often dyed and stabilized with resins to produce a harder stone which retains its color and polish. Reconstituted turquoise is made from small chips and "chalk" to which dyes and plastic resin is added. Pure turquoise is a relatively soft stone ranging between 5 and 6 on the Mohs scale of hardness.

Folklore, Legend, and Healing Properties:

Turquoise attracts money, success and love. Its powers include protection, healing, courage, friendship, and luck. Relaxes the mind, and eases mental tension.

Turquoise is sacred to many Native American's and was carved in the shape of animals and birds. These carvings were placed in the Indians tombs to attract beneficial spirits and to guard the dead. Turquoise was also used by medicine men for healing and by warriors who fixed turquoise to the end of their bows to insure accurate shots.

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2009-04-16T07:32:00.004-06:00

A BIG Thank You to all my great customers who made my 'Stimulus Bead Program' a huge success!

Giant Bead Sale

I offered 40% OFF EVERYTHING at both my bead sites!!

If you'd like to be added to my mailing list, send me a note w/your email at ether of my sites below!

Clink on either link to see all the goodies!

My Bead Shops: ArtFire & Yahoo

Need Beads? I got 'em!!

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~ Happy Easter & Peace to All ~

2009-04-12T09:50:00.011-06:00

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Pictures are worth a 1,000 words....
I adore old vintage postcards, flowers, nature, pretty jewelry & beads and listening to beautiful music playing while viewing them. I hope you enjoy them too. Perhaps a quiet moment to reflect may come to mind to give thanks which may refresh your spirit.

My personal prayer today is for help to be delivered, additional emotional support, food for the hungry, and peace within the hearts of those troubled, suffering, in pain or who recently experienced loss. I pray that God will cradle your soul in His loving Hands to calm your heart, ease your pain, and Bless your life with His Grace & Love. I believe in His Love and the power it brings to souls open and accepting to Him.

Cute as a Button ~ Necklaces

2009-04-10T15:48:00.016-06:00

~ Cute as a Button ~

I've been very busy creating these simple and delicate little necklaces composed of genuine freshwater pearls and gorgeous Czech Art-Glass Button pendants. I created sterling enhancers on the buttons so you can easily slip it off/on the pearls and use it on another necklace ~and~ you can wear the pearls alone if you wish.

I'll be listing them at Lollishops simply click on my shop's name below:
Mia Bella Collection
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'New' Czech Art -Glass Button Pendants

2009-04-07T18:49:00.009-06:00

I'm offering 'New' Czech Art-Glass Button Pendants!

Click on the Title above for the direct link to my ArtFire shop to purchase one. I designed a sterling silver enhancer which is attached to the button's shank without causing any damage -and- NO use of toxic glues are involved. You can simply slip the pendant on/off any existing necklace.

I value the job that buttons are meant to do and didn't want to ruin it's value as a button or the possibility of using it at a later date as a true button (sewn on). So I created a sterling enhancer which can be removed or left in place if one would like to attach it to a garment with needle and thread. Even though the buttons may look "vintage or antique" they're all fresh from the factory, so there's no previous damage or wear & tear that's taken place.

These 'NEW' Czech glass buttons are purchased directly from the factory distributor and manufactured in Europe. They're 'NEW' -- not vintage or used. A 'new' generation and process enables a very high quality button with fantastic colors present in each of these beautiful glass buttons. Many buttons sold at Etsy or eBay may look similar and claim to be 'vintage or old', however the new technique used today were simply not available 20, 30, 40yrs ago. This age-old process of hand-pressed glass hasn't changed in over 200 years.

Each individual button is pressed in with a long-handled pair of pliers, the ends of the pliers are what hold the design molds. Then each shank is skillfully added at just the right moment while the glass is still very hot. After they've cooled in a special oven, the edge of each button is ground smoothed by a diamond wheel and finished by hand by these skillful craftsmen. The last step is the delicate painting done by hand and/or AB/finishes which are fired finished creating a breath-taking little jewel of a button!

I'll be posting more to use as pendants, buttons, or a fastener for a bracelet design!
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Sweet Little Temptations...

2009-03-26T08:00:00.023-06:00

A few little 'Sweet Temptations....Skin Candy'

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~ Spring Clean-Up ~

2009-03-18T16:52:00.021-06:00

I've been spending most of my time tweaking and building websites that I partake in all over the place! It's time to prepare and freshen up things for spring. So out with the old and in with....a new attitude. I've been cleaning out files, deleting old photos + taking new photos, creating collages, and trying to learn to blog. I may not be a spry Spring ChickiePoo anymore, but this lil' FeatheredHen can still scamper around with the best of 'em!

What I've gathered and realize is that I'm a complete numbie-head with blogging. I'm soooo far behind with all that pertains to blogging. Ooofda. However, I'm a quick study! Lately, I've been snoopin' around and reading all sorts of blogs....OMG. It's overwhelming!! My attitude has been "I never thought anyone would want to read about 'me' or my life much." Blogs have always reminded me of a 1-member fan club "Hey all!! This is my personal fan club -- it's all about ME, this is what I do, this is what I like, this is what I don't like, this is what I think, this is what I did yesterday, this is what I fixed for lunch, ... blahblahblah ... People really want to know that stuff?

Hmmm.... Well, I don't think I'll be boring anyone with that sort of stuff. However when my creativity is on fire and I start mass-producing jewelry, or I take some incredible pics, or I begin to design textile folk-art patterns that I used to do....you'll see the results all over my blog! Now THAT is worth sharing!! LOL Take a little peek below....see what I mean? I always liked 'Show & Tell' best. :D

Robin's Egg Blue & Hint of Gold

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~ Early Lavendar Crocus ~

I just finished adding new goodies & updating my jewelry website:
Mia Bella Collection
Stop by and take a little peek!

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~ Love is in the Air ~

2009-02-06T09:33:00.004-07:00

Love is in the air....past memories are being stirred up. I am blessed to have loved ones to share my affection and gestures of appreciation. Valentine's Day is one of my favorite holidays. Because ~LOVE~ is the truest and most genuine gift we can give and receive.