Simply Charming in SC

IT'S THE WORLD'S GREATEST GIVEAWAY, THE SEQUEL!

2010-05-10T12:26:00.002-04:00

TeamSC is hosting yet another awesome giveaway! It's our "Spring Into Summer Giveaway," and the winner will receive this awesome Sampler Box filled with TeamSC artisan awesomeness:

There are 12 items total from artists across the state of South Carolina. You'll find jewelry, hand-stitched tissue holders, ornaments, cards, and more, all for a value of $75! It's SO easy to enter---just go to OUR BLOG to read all the details! Don't miss it!! You've got till Noon EST on Monday, May 24th to enter!!!

It's the World's Greatest Giveaway!!!

2010-03-18T11:25:00.002-04:00

TeamSC is hosting a March Giveaway, and three---that's right, I said THREE---lucky winners will receive an amazing gift basket filled with TeamSC goodies!!!

If you'd like to enter, read all about it on our Team Blog.

There are just 4 teeny little steps to enter, and they couldn't be easier! The contest runs from today until March 28th, so get your entries in today so you have a chance to win these amazing prizes!!!!

If you'd like to see more TeamSC stuff, visit our SHOP.

Thanks for your support!! I'd enter this contest in a heartbeat if team members were eligible! LOL

I'm a Featured Seller!

2010-02-02T13:06:00.002-05:00

I feel so honored to be SCTeam's very first featured seller!! They wrote the sweetest blog about me, and posted pics and links to some of my creations. I hope you'll go visit!!

Just click HERE.

Thanks to my fellow South Carolina etsians for the huge honor!! :)

Valentine's Day Showcase

2010-01-28T11:06:00.002-05:00

Not sure what to get that special someone for Valentine's Day? Or maybe your significant other needs a push in the right direction, only you're not sure what YOU want for the big V-Day this year?

Never fear---TeamSC is here to help! We've put together a gorgeous showcase of all our team has to offer for Valentine's Day this year! From bracelets to handbags to accessories---it's all heart-and-candy worthy, just in time for Valentine's Day! Just CLICK HERE to view it all!

(You'll notice a familiar certain someone is at the top of the showcase---ME!)

New Stuff in the SCTeam Shop!!

2010-01-14T15:45:00.004-05:00

The ever-awesome Taylor from the SC Street Team (who's shop you can find HERE) worked her magic and got my 3 little items posted in the SCTeam Store today!

Wahoo!

So far I'm the only single seller in there--but you will find some AWESOME team baskets we put together, filled with goodies from all over the state!! So you should definitely check it out!

Pink Poppies Bracelet, $12

Mediterranean Rain Earrings, $10

Fire and Ice Necklace, $18

So...what do you think? :) The best part is that 10% of the proceeds go to the South Carolina Arts Foundation! Awesome!! Hope you'll check it out! Till next time---

Who's a Busy Bee? ME!

2010-01-12T18:53:00.008-05:00

Hey gang! Lots to report! My last blog was a birthday feature blog, and I tipped my hat to a few fellow South Carolina Etsians who were celebrating their big days. Well, the powers-that-be over at the SC Street Team liked the idea so much, they've asked me to be a contributer to THEIR blog! I'm pretty excited about it, especially since it's just another way to promote awesome SC artists!!

Today was my first blog over there, which means, I have another birthday story to share with you!! SimplyCharminginSC would like to wish a very happy birthday to Renate and Arlene, the etsy duo who created JNJKeepsakes

These ladies are pretty special. They create handmade beads from dried flower petals and incorporate those beads into their designs! How cool is that?? Have a particular bouquet that's really special? Dry those puppies and send them to Renate and Arlene and they can create you a piece of jewelry you can treasure much longer than the life of the flowers.

But there is an even bigger reason why you should wander into their shop. These ladies have a very special reason for selling on Etsy. One of their creations, the Jessica Necklace (pictured below) was inspired by Arlene's neice, who was killed in a drunk driving accident. The proceeds from the sale of this necklace are donated to MADD.

So stop by and wish these talented and creative ladies a Happy Birthday....and maybe pick up one of those beautiful necklaces for yourself.

In other news, I've been busy crafting and had a few new items to post in my Etsy shop! Here is your very own personal sneak peek!

Aztec Turquoise Double-Strand Bracelet, $14

Mermaid Teardrop Earrings, $11

Jungle Vine Bracelet, $10

Black Tie Affair Bracelet, $12

Told ya! I've got a couple of other things I've sent to be added to the SC Street Team store, as well. So stay tuned for that!! I've also SLASHED all my shipping prices---so it's MUCH more affordable to buy from my shop now!!

I hope, if nothing else, this blog inspires you to visit etsy! It feels SO good to be back to the grind again! I'm so glad it's 2010! :) Till next time, from,

Alive and Kickin'

2010-01-05T09:45:00.004-05:00

**GASP!**

That's right. I'm still alive and kickin'. Having lived my life, I'm not surprised at all that it's been since September since I last blogged. However, you, the reader, having not lived my life the past few months, I'm sure you're quite surprised to finally hear from me again! I'll not go into huge detail but let's suffice it to say that the end of 2009 wasn't such a terrific time. But I'm bouncing back in 2010, and I'm SO excited that it's the New Year! I'm looking forward to making this year count in a MAJOR way!

So, since our last encounter, I've taken a role as the official "Birthday Greeter" on TeamSC... which is the PERFECT job for me. I volunteered because I really wanted to be more active in my team, and in my Etsy shop, and this particular assignment allows me an easy way to achieve that goal. I have an obligation to log in everyday to check the calendar for birthdays, and that means I instantly become more active! Not to mention, I get to send birthday wishes--how happy is that??!?

I thought it would be fun to also feature those sellers with Birthday Blogs! So...here are a few awesome SC sellers who have had recent birthdays--you should really check them out!

Flash Forward Photography is one of those shops that you just can't stop looking at--gorgeous photos that make you want to visit South Carolina. She celebrated her birthday on Christmas Eve, and this is my favorite item from her shop:

It's called "Sunday Morning," and it's an 8X10 photograph of the pier on Folly Beach...one of my all time favorite places in the whole world. Isn't it gorgeous?? You can find it HERE.

We also celebrated a New Year's Eve birthday with our friend Adriane, from our beautiful capital, Columbia, SC. She sells the most vibrant, colorful, and fun hand painted silk items in her store AdrianeMichelle. When I first looked at her shop, I immediately thought of fireworks because there are SO many colors!! Here is my favorite item from her inventory:

She calls it a Digital Fancy Silk Scarf, and you can find it HERE. I chose it because I think the colors are reminiscent of a tropical ocean. Beautiful.

We have 3 birthdays coming up in January, and I'll be featuring them here on their big days! I've always been proud to be a member of TeamSC, but as I'm learning more and more about our artists, it's staggering to me the amount of talent we have!! If you're interested in more South Carolina artisans, you can search for us on Etsy using the keyword "teamsc." You can also shop our Team Store!

Until next time...(And I promise it won't be 3 months from now!)

Etsy Rant

2009-09-12T09:33:00.002-04:00

So everyday, I venture over to Etsy to check out the items they have listed on the "front page." I'm always interested to see where the sellers are from, what they're selling, how they photograph, etc...

You guessed it. I'm looking for a pattern. And I'm trying to teach myself how to be a better seller based on the items the Lords of Etsy decide to put on a pedestal for the day.

Well today, there was a picture that caught my eye. A bowl of rhubarb. Innnnnteresting. Just what was this person selling? So I clicked on the picture and was whisked away to her shop.

Not only is she NOT selling the bowl, or the rhubarb, as is displayed in her picture (she's selling jam), she's only got the ONE item listed in her shop.

Now maybe I'm over-reacting here, but it doesn't seem fair to me that someone gets to be featured on the front page when 1) they have one item to sell, and 2) the picture she's chosen to represent her product isn't even close to what she's selling. She was only chosen to be featured because her picture fits the daily theme. And because it's artsy. Truly, it's a gorgeous photo and could probably be featured on the front of a food magazine. But that's beside the point. (Kudos, Jam Lady.)

Granted, I think selling jam is a wonderful idea, especially for Etsy. I'd love to see how she eventually packages it, and I think it's a great business plan. It's not something I've seen a ton of on Etsy, so good for her. My frustration is simply this: I've had a FULL shop for over a year, and I've never been featured. Now I'll be the first one to tell you that not all of my pictures are fantastic. I STRIVE to take "Etsy-quality" pictures, and it's something I battle with every time I list. But I also don't edit my pictures in any way---I don't photoshop them, or brighten them, or add anything to them. All I do is crop them. I feel like the pictures I put up are, if nothing else, honest of the product I'm trying to sell. (FYI: Any tips to make my pictures better are ALWAYS appreciated, and if anyone wants to send me a better camera just cuz I'm cute, well, I'd be thrilled!)

So tell me, am I over-reacting? Or do we have every right to be upset?

Best of luck to the jam-seller!

Bringing in September with a BANG!

2009-09-03T14:49:00.006-04:00

Things have really been picking up for me on Etsy!! I made a sale in July, another in August, and another one today! (Which may not sound like much, but after having NO sales for a super-long time makes three feel like a holiday rush! LOL)

I've been BUSY BUSY BUSY making new designs, and I'm excited to report that I finally got them photographed and posted on Etsy!!! Nine new listings!!! You'll have to go check them out. They are: Dreams in Moss, Enchanted Forest, Eye of Horus, Meditation in Mookaite,Kitty on a String, Heart in Chains, My Romance, Dots in Purple, and Simply Sodalite Bracelet.

In case you're not feeling like opening up nine new windows just to see all my new stuff, I thought I'd share my three favorites with you here. The first is a bracelet I made that was inspired by a special birthday gift I made for a dear friend of mine. I loved her necklace SO much that I really wanted to keep it...but don't worry, I didn't! Instead, I designed this beautiful bracelet with her in mind. This bracelet is called "My Romance," and I may cry when I sell it, I love it so much!!!

My next favorite is a necklace I called "Enchanted Forest." When I first saw the paper-thin hand-painted shell pendant of this necklace, I immediately thought of Bella and Edward from Twilight. Not sure why, but it inspired this beautifully romantic necklace that would look great with any great black top or dress.

And finally, a necklace inspired wholly by the awesome focal bead, called "Eye of Horus." For those unfamiliar the eye of Horus is an Egyptian symbol for protection. I love the colors of this necklace, and I'm thinking about entering it in TeamSC's October Challenge--themed "Halloween."

Hooray for creativity!! I'm hoping to have some new designs done soon, so I can keep posting to Etsy. I know, the more often I post, the more likely someone will see my designs. And I've been so motivated to craft lately that I just keep producing more stock!!! Now the real challenge is not to WEAR any of the jewelry I've created!!! What do you think?

Finding New Inspiration

2009-08-29T10:15:00.004-04:00

I've been so busy creating new designs the past few weeks that I've hardly come up for air!! I recently discovered a shop in downtown Charleston called Black Market Minerals, and I've founds lots of new inspiration there! Going to the store is such an experience, but you can also find them on the web at http://www.blackmarketminerals.com/.

I've bought Botswana agate and freshwater pearls and moonstone. I've bought pendants made of African sodalite and kiwi quartz and tiger jasper. I've created necklaces with ceramic pendants and mookaite jasper.

I've got a TON of new stuff to photograph and list, which I'm planning on doing this weekend, so stay tuned!!

On a sidenote, I made a $6 purchase at Michael's that has TOTALLY changed how I make jewelry. It's a bead board!! It's made designing so much easier, which just makes me want to create even more! Who knew??
Stay tuned for new designs!!! (Can you tell I'm really excited to be designing again???!) :)

I'm a Featured Seller!

2009-08-01T09:37:00.004-04:00

Hi gang! I can't believe it's been almost a month since my last post on this blog. I'm getting seriously behind in keeping up with things!! But I guess it's a true testimony to how little I've been crafting. I have posted some new things on my Etsy site in the last few weeks, and I have a few new things to add. But a majority of my free time has been spent with the hubs, who took the summer off from school. It's been great fun!! But he'll be starting back in a couple of weeks, and I'll miraculously have a TON more time to blog AND craft. So hopefully things will start heating up here, as well.

I did manage to find a moment or two to enter TeamSC's July summertime challenge...and WON!!! My prize---I'm a featured seller on our team blog! You can check out the interview HERE.

I'm not sure if it'll mean more traffic to my store or not, but I'm hoping it will!!!

Meanwhile, in more personal news, I got a new wedding ring!!!

Explanation: Bri and I got married in 2004, and 3 days before the wedding, when I arrived at the jewelry store (which will remain nameless) to pick up my wedding band (which I had ordered in white gold, to match my engagement ring) they handed me a beautiful ring, precisely the one I had ordered. Except it was GOLD not WHITE GOLD. With so little time before the wedding, I had 2 options: let them send the ring back for the right one and NOT have a ring for the ceremony, or let them plate it so I could take it right away. Well, not having the ring wasn't an option. So, on the promise that plating wouldn't look any different from a white gold band, I had them plate it and we left.

Over the course of 4 years, we had to have the band replated twice, and it was time to be plated again. Brian said, "We're going to spend a fortune over the next 50 years replating this ring. Why don't we get you a new one?" So....we did! The ring on bottom is my engagement ring, and the diamond band is the new ring. I LOVE it! I can't stop looking at my left hand---it's like being engaged all over again!!! :)

I hope everyone is having a wonderful summer and that you're out enjoying some summer fun, too! Until next time,

New Listings on Etsy!!!!

2009-07-02T16:44:00.005-04:00

I'm so excited to announce that I finally got some new listings up on my Etsy site!!!!

I went ahead and took photos yesterday, so I was able to post some new stuff to my site today. I can't tell you how GOOD IT FEELS to be back to the jewelry-makin' grindstone!!! I've got several more design ideas that I'll hopefully have time to bring into fruition after this holiday weekend is over. This will be the proverbial end to most of our summertime fun, so I'll have lots of freetime to dig in and get some jewelry created!

I was actually really excited to learn that I've got 2 pages worth of stuff up again! It's been a REALLY long time since I had 2 pages of stuff on Etsy, that's for sure!!!

I'll leave you with a few of my favorite photos from my recent photo shoot---and a jolly "Happy Fourth of July, everyone!!" We'll be back Monday!!!

Simply Sodalite: Listed for $9 on Etsy. Sodalite is said to increase self-confidence AND creativity!

Fiery Rain: Listed for $8 on Etsy. First gold pair I've made in awhile, but who wouldn't pair these gorgeous carnelians with gold??!?!?

Summertime Mini-Surfboards: Listed for $8 on Etsy. I'm from the South Carolina coast, people! Surfboards are a must in the summertime!!!

I hope you'll venture on over to my shop and enjoy the rest of my listings!!! Happy Fourth of July Weekend, everyone!

I've Been Busy!

2009-07-01T14:37:00.007-04:00

From left to right, Top Row: Simply Silver Dangles, Summertime Mini-Surfboards, Very Blueberry Hoops, Irish Green Charms. Bottom Row: Fire Flowers, Punk 80s Pink Dangles, It's Raining Fire ! (Gold), Simply Sodalite Dangles.

Now, my next task is to set up my light box and photograph these, so I can get them listed on Etsy!!! I've also got a bracelet I'm working on with some brightly colored candy jade, and I've got some necklace ideas to try out with those brown flower shell beads. But---those will probably wait till after our weekend mini-vacation! What do you think?

EDITED SAME DAY, 6:30 PM: I actually finished taking photos, as well---although I'll wait to post them up on Etsy sometime tomorrow! If you'd like to see better quality pics, and lots of close-ups, you can see them on my Facebook Page--just search for Abby Brinkley Chamberlain!

Playing Catch-Up

2009-06-29T09:45:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone!!! Can you believe it---it's been 23 days since my last post on this blog!!! What an awful blogger I've turned into! And let's not even talk about my Etsy shop---it's practically bare!!!

Well, during a trip to Charleston this weekend with my dear friend and college roommate, Jenna, I picked up a few little trinkets in hopes to launch me back into the jewelry atmosphere:

The brown shell beads on top are my favorites, I think---and I couldn't pass up the strands of sodalite and carnelian---the prices were just too good!! Now if I can just manage to keep the summer fun from blocking my creative mojo, I might just have some new pieces to tell you about in the coming days. :) I hope you're all having a fabulous sumemer--we certainly are!!!

Winner of My Crafting it Forward Contest

2009-06-06T12:06:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to Kat from Candles, Crafts and Whatnot! You're the big winner of my Crafting it Forward Contest!!! (Be default, actually, because no one else entered! So that made it easy! LOL) I'll be in touch with you regarding your prize! Congrats again, and thanks for entering!!!!

Sorry I've been MIA so much lately. June is a big month for us, and I've been spending most of my free time this week preparing for visitors, finishing up our spring cleaning, and planning our "staycation." I am really planning on digging in my heels, if not by the end of June, then definitly starting in July, with my etsy shop. I still have several new things to list on Etsy, and I've still got the wheels turning on whether or not to list my photography to sell as art. Hmmm....at any rate, I'm hoping to spice things up with my Etsy shop this summer!

So, I'll probably not be around much, on any of my blogs, until our visitors leave! In the interim, I'll be enjoying my family, taking LOTS of pictures to share, and celebrating my 28th birthday! Hope you all have a fantastic week, and I'll check in again soon!

Crafting It Forward Contest

2009-05-30T15:34:00.007-04:00

A few weeks ago, I jumped at the opportunity to enter a Crafting It Forward Contest over at my dear pal Kristin's blog, My Art and the Mom in Me. Kristin is one of those people who has creativity just oozing out of her pores. Her paper mache beads are impressive enough, and THEN you see the amazing sculptures and artwork she makes with them---well, gosh darn it, it's enough to make you drool! I've always been envious of Kristin's never-ending talent, and her willingness to find inspiration from every aspect of her life. So when I found out there might be a possibility of winning my own little piece of that creativity, I just HAD to enter.

And I won!!! Kristin contacted me about a week ago to let me know that she'd drawn my lil' name out of the hat, and that she'd be sending me something handmade by her. AWESOME!! To my delight, when I opened up the mailbox today, I had a big, yellow package, just for ME! Needless to say, I was VERY excited...

(LOL...please ignore the awfulness that is my skills with photoshop...I didn't want our addresses showing so I went in and apparently spread pixellated mustard all over everything. Sheesh that looks awful. Anyways...)

You can only imagine, given the state of excitement on my face in the above photo, just how much better it was going to get when I opened the package! There was a sweet note inside, and Kristin explained that she found inspiration for my special gift from a Facebook post she saw between my hubby and me. So she created this GORGEOUS wire sculpture wall hanging!

How adorable, and creative, and sweet is that???!? It's really one of the most heartfelt gifts I've ever received. My favorite part of the sculpture is that she formed the word "love" out of the wire---SO creative:

And my second favorite part is the awesome paper mache focal bead in the center!!! My absolute favorite color is green, and with the yellow and white polka dots, it's just so happy and colorful!

Oh Kristin, you clever, clever girl!! So I'm telling you guys, seriously, if you haven't checked our Kristin's etsy shop, PaperMacheBeads, you absolutely have to check her out, especially if you're interested in creative, interesting, colorful artwork for your home.

And so, with Kristin's generosity comes my OWN Crafting it Forward Contest!! I'd like to make something, just for you!! The only rule: you have to keep the generosity train movin' and send one of your own handmade heartfelt creations to someone else! The gift I create will most likely be jewelry of some sort, and I will talk details with you once you've won the contest (i.e. gold/silver, gemstones, preference of style, etc.)

To enter, you must be a follower of at least ONE of my blogs (this one, The FatKat Kronicles, or The (Gradually) Shrinking Violet). Then, leave me a comment letting me know you're a follower, and also, tell me all about the most generous thing you've ever done for someone else. I'll be drawing a name from a hat at random one week from today: Saturday, June 6, and will announce the winner then!!! I'm so excited to be participating, and thanks once again to Kristin for my wonderful sculpture. Happy Saturday, everyone!

Great Friends, Mini-Update, and the Future of Simply Charming in SC

2009-05-23T12:24:00.002-04:00

What do you get when you combine kindness, fabric, and a wonderful friend? You get a surprise package from Duni, the author of Lovely Purses!!! A couple of weeks ago I got a special gift from my far-away friend---this adorable, sheepy tissue holder!

How CUTE is that??!?!? I just love it!! Duni has been such a great friend to me since I started my blogs, and she's a faithful reader who always leaves wonderful, heartfelt comments. I was thrilled to receive this special gift from her, and it goes with me in my purse everywhere! Duni has a talent for taking rich, gorgeous fabrics and turning them into purses, bags, and other little goodies that you can treasure forever. I've always loved fabric, and love to shop for it and look at it, but I never learned how to sew! So I love to look through her shop and dream. You have to check her out!!!!

A little update regarding my last blog: my customer FINALLY finished paying for her special order, I gave her the jewelry, and the transaction is finished. YES! While she was in she was telling me about her family's financial woes, and it only solidified my decision to skip the jewelry party with her---at least for now. I've yet to have an opportunity to set up and photograph the jewelry I have to list....there are several reasons for that. One--NO sunlight. It's been rainy and overcast here for sometime. Two--NO time! My hubby and I have been concentrating on two fronts recently--exercise and reorganization. Any free time I've had in the last week has been dedicated to working out, cleaning out closets, and doing my spring cleaning. So--I'm hoping that this long weekend will give me time to set up my lightbox and get some new items listed up on Etsy! So, stay tuned!

I've also been really thinking about the future of my Etsy shop. It's pretty much been a failure, at this point. I'm not making any sales, and I think there are several reasons for that. I make jewelry, like 75% of the other sellers on Etsy. And because of the way the search on etsy works, if you're not listing new items constantly, you basically fall the bottom of the search barrel. Which means NO ONE is finding my shop. I also think the economy is partly to blame, and no matter what I do to change up my shop, nothing is going to change that. But I've been doing some brainstorming with the hubs lately about how to increase the traffic flow to my shop, and here's what I've been thinking...

Let me back up a bit. We're having guests come to stay for a week coming up in June, and I've been coming up with all these little projects to beautify my house. One of them was to go through all the hundreds of pictures I have on my computer, pick my favorites, mess around with photoshop, and frame them for wall art. That got me thinking....

Maybe I could add South Carolina themed framed photography to my shop?!?

So...I'm looking for feedback. I've put together a slideshow (which I tried fruitlessly to post on Blogger, but it just wouldn't let me) If you have a second to take a look at my slideshow, please leave me a comment and let me know what you think! I'm wondering two things: 1) is it good enough to sell? Would you buy it? and 2) does it fit my shop theme? Or should I consider opening a new shop? Thanks in advance for any feedback!!

Let me know what you think! And in the meantime, here's hoping y'all have a wonderful weekend!!!

Decisions, Decisions

2009-05-14T09:59:00.002-04:00

Hi Gang!! Once again, it's been EONS since I've posted on this blog. I've been keeping up with my other two blogs fairly frequently, but my lack of enthusiasm over my flailing jewelry business is apparent with my infrequent posts here on Simply Charming.

One word. FRUSTRATION. I've been building up my inventory over the past 2 months in order to have a jewelry party, which was offered to me by the customer who bought most of my jewelry from my office display. You may remember me mentioning that several posts back. Well...here we are, 2 months since she asked me to design and create 2 sets (necklace, bracelet, earrings) for her, and she STILL hasn't paid me everything that she owes me. She's been coming by every once in awhile and paying in $10 installments. It didn't bother me at first...I mean she DID spend almost $100 the first time she came in, and I took her custom order at that point, too, so I was feeling a little happy rather than annoyed. But everytime I see her, it's the same thing, "Oh my goodness, I just keep FORGETTING that I owe you money!!! hee hee hee."

So now it's official. I'm annoyed. She's mentioned the party to me maybe twice since we first talked about it, and has said she does still want to throw the party. But I'm beginning to feel like maybe SHE can't afford to be buying extraneous items. And if SHE can't afford them, then who is she inviting to the party?

I don't want to seem insensitive---I KNOW what people are going through right now, with the economy and job loss and everything. I don't just say that I know, I KNOW---my dad has been out of work since January. So I can empathize with it in a very real way. But I'm trying to think about this from a business standpoint, and I just keep imagining people trying to haggle with me over the price, or being really excited about my work but unable to afford it. I think there would be a guilt factor in there, too....."They should really be spending their money on something else...like food."

I don't know, am I CRAZY???

At any rate, I think I've decided to rally on Etsy, list all the items I've created so far for the party, and decline her offer. At least for now. Maybe if I beef up my inventory, I'll actually have someone PARTICIPATE in the BOGO sale that I've got going on right now. (I haven't had a single bite. Not ONE. It's buy one get one free, and I've had NO sales.)

I talked to my husband last night about my disappointment in the success of my business, and my fears about the party. And he said to me, "I've got a Sunday off coming up---maybe we should try our hands at the flea market." So that's my new motivation. :)

Please let me know if you think I'm overthinking the party situation!!! I value your opinions! Thanks! :) Have a great day!!!

Small Award Ceremony and General Thoughts

2009-05-05T13:20:00.005-04:00

I've SO been neglecting to post a few fantastic awards I recently received from my sweet pal Kat from Candles, Crafts and Whatnot. Not only is Kat a fantastic blogger, but she's turned out to be one of the best blogosphere pals a gal can have. She always seems to think of me and my little blog whenever she hands out these awards. And I'm SO grateful she thinks so much of me and my hobby! :) Thanks Kat!!!!

The first award is the "Over the Top" Award:

That's right, Kat thinks this blog is Over the Top!!! Now I'll admit, I have a propensity for the flamboyant, but Kat? LOL :0) Anyway, according to the rules Kat posted on her blog, to receive this award "your blog must be exceptional in design and content; presenting us with new knowledge, a sense of style, or at times just giving us a smile! Each recipient of the award will acknowledge the person who honored them with the award and then go to http://overthetopaprons.blogspot.com to copy/paste the award : Your Blog is Over The Top. (located on the right sidebar, scroll down)

Fantastic!! A few blogs I think are Over the Top are:
Kristin and My Art and the Mom in Me
Diana and Diana Rambles
Duni and Lovely Purses
You gals always make me smile!! I think that fits the criteria for this award quite nicely!

The second award I got from Kat almost made me shoot milk out of my nose I laughed so hard when I read about it. It's called the Zombie Chicken Award...that's right, I said zombie chickens.

"The blogger who receives this award believes in the Tao of the zombie chicken - excellence, grace and persistence in all situations, even in the midst of a zombie apocalypse. These amazing bloggers regularly produce content so remarkable that their readers would brave a raving pack of zombie chickens just to be able to read their inspiring words. As a recipient of this world-renowned award, you now have the task of passing it on to at least 5 other worthy bloggers. Do not risk the wrath of the zombie chickens by choosing unwisely or not choosing at all…"

Ok, so, you can't read those rules and not think they're hysterical. Am I right?? I KNOW it says 5 blogs, but there are only 4 I'm going to mention here. The four blogs I'm choosing to honor with this prestigious award are a few that I read, religiously, every single day. Why? Because they post (almost) EVERY SINGLE DAY! Seriously?!?? That's dedication, people. There are days when I want to post but can't think of anything remotely relevant, or even INTERESTING!! You'll also notice a trend with these particular blogs....they're all authored by some of my favorite furry blogosphere friends.

Angel, Isabella and Sadie from The BeadedTail
Franklin, Dobby and Tasha from Mishkat
Samson and Delilah from The Monkeys
Jane and Alice from the Casbah Kitten

These four blogs are among a handful that I read anytime there's a new post. They're just that good. And Scooter (my cat who authors FatKat Kronicles) loves them, too!

So....general thoughts. I got a lot of great feedback regarding my BOGO sale in my Etsy shop...I wrote all about it in this blog the other day. My only thought----PROMOTE SALES! I know I'm not the only one sitting on the same inventory from 2 months ago. Seriously. I just can't seem to sell anything ANYWHERE online. And it's frustrating. And if I'm being honest, it's sort of given me jewelry-design block. I just can't seem to come up with any designs that I love!! I'll build something, tear it apart, try it again, tear it apart again...this whole etsy (and artfire) slump are killing my creativity. It's frustrating! And I seriously thought by having a HUGE blowout sale, I'd have made atleast ONE sale by now. Nada. Nothing. Despite the Tweets and the Facebook advertising and the blogging and the posting on the Etsy forums....Zilch.

So...since I'm not making any money on Etsy, I'm thinking I might just try and figure out a way to make money blogging here instead. My father-in-law, who I mentioned is coming to visit in June in an earlier post, is a blog/money-making genius. He's been authoring the same blog, The Lucky Puppy , for several years and has managed to actually turn it into a business. (Full disclosure: The Lucky Puppy is an adult blog...with curse words and political arguments and adult-themed humor! Just so you know before you click, in case kids are in the room!) At any rate, I'm going to reach out to him for some help figuring out how to better advertise and promote my blog, in hopes that as I'm doing so, I'll find new readers AND new potential customers, all in one fell swoop. I really thought Entrecard would help me do that without having to SPEND any money, but we've all seen where that trip went. (Down the rabbit hole, so to speak...) So...stay tuned for some changes!

Have a fabulous day, folks! And enjoy your awards, whether cute or chicken-y!!!

Introducing: Our First Ever BOGO Sale!!!

2009-05-02T13:35:00.002-04:00

I'm pleased to announce that Simply Charming in SC is having it's first ever BOGO sale!!!

From now until May 31st, everything at my Etsy Shop is on sale!!! So if you've had your eye on a pair of earrings or a South Carolina Sun Chime, now's the time to buy!! For every item that you purchase, you can choose another (of equal or lesser value) for FREE!!! You can't beat that with a stick!

All you have to do is convo me on Etsy, let me know your two selected items, and I'll bundle them up for you! Easy, cheezy! Hurry, hurry, hurry, because Summertime's almost here, and everybody needs fab accessories for Summertime!!! Hope to see you there!

New Jewelry!

2009-04-23T19:10:00.009-04:00

I absolutely cannot believe it's been almost a week since my last post on this blog!!! There's been so much going on in my life that my crafting habit has sort of been on hold. But I've been squeezing in what I can in what little free time I've been granted over the last week, and I have a few pairs of earrings I'd like to share with you! These were created to sell at my upcoming jewelry party. I still don't have all the details hammered out yet (as in, the date, the time, etc.) She's basically waiting on me to round out my inventory!! So....here's what I've come up with in the past few days.

(**Please forgive the quality of the pictures---they are certainly not Etsy-approved! I didn't want to take the time to set up the light box to take pictures of earrings I most likely won't sell online, but wanted to share my work with you anyway!!)

The focal beads of this pair are this great pink and black dichrotic glass. I LOVE the funky design. It reminds me of an outfit I had as a kid in the 80s! Super cute, super casual, and great for everyday wear!!

When I saw these gorgeous turquoise glass pendant-sized beads, I immediately thought of summer, the beach, and surfboards! Each one is carefully wire-wrapped and finished with a sweet little curlique. I love these, they're so summery!!!!

These might be my favorite. I stumbled into a new bead store the other day that didn't really have much that excited me. EXCEPT this blue African Sodalite. I just love, love, love these beads!! They're so earthy. They remind me of the shallow water of a pond, with the greens and browns swirled in. LOVE these. Wish I'd bought enough to make myself a pair!

Ok, I lied. These might be my favorites. These dangly earrings are created using these delicious & funky pieces of candy jade. These colors are GORGEOUS---teal and lime green and turquoise. It's like looking out over a tropical sea. They make me want to take a vacation somewhere with white sand, cool breezes, and pretty pink drinks with tiny umbrellas.

So THAT'S what I've been working on. I'm sorry to have been so neglectful with this blog!! We have a huge summer planned, with several visitors planned, as well as a short trip over July 4. I'm not sure when I'll be able to start posting on Etsy again, but I hope it's soon! Until then, I hope you'll enjoy the little bit of eye-candy I was able to post tonight, and let me know what you think!! Till next time, big hugs from,

Blogging Fun-ness

2009-04-17T09:18:00.007-04:00

Yay for games!! Sweet Duni from Lovely Purses thought of me in her latest post, and tagged me with a new game is all about the number "8." Thanks, Duni, for sharing!! She either remembers how obsessed I am about things like this, or else she's just curious to hear my answers. So...on with the fun!!

8 Things I Am Looking Forward To:

1. A visit from my husband's aunt in the next few weeks. She's so much fun!
2. Sunday, sleeping in, and enjoying my day off
3. My best friend and college roommate, Jenna, is coming to visit in June!!
4. My father-in-law and lil' sister-in-law, Walt and Rosie, are coming for a visit in June as well! All the way from Nevada!!!

(This picture was taken last year, when we visited THEM in Nevada. We were at the Hoover Dam! Pictured, from left to right, my brother-in-law Timm (who's not coming this time), father-in-law Walt, Rosie, me and the hubs!)

5. My first jewelry party at the end of April (although I'm nervous, too!)
6. The Sims 3!!! Comes out June 2!!!! I can't wait!!!! You may not hear from me much!!! LOL

7. The next day the hubs has off from work.
8. All the fantastic summer movies that are coming out soon (Harry Potter, Star Trek, Transformers, Wolverine)

8 Things I Did Yesterday

1. Worked

2. Blogged on ALL my blogs, including The FatKat Kronicles and The (Gradually) Shrinking Violet

3. Updated my eDiets page with my latest weight loss----5.4 pounds last week! YAY!
4. Tried (unsuccessfully) to nap off a raging sinus headache. (Don't worry, it's gone now.)

5. Treated Harry, my cat, for his eye infection. Twice.

6. Played with Scooter, a lot.

7. Finished yet another book.
8. Watched a movie.

8 Things I Wish I Could Do

1. Take an extended vacation somewhere tropical.
2. Buy a house on the beach.

3. Visit family more often.
4. Run. I'll get there soon, though!
5. Win the lottery so I could stop working.

6. Make my blogging and jewelry obsessions into profitable business. Again, so I could quit my job LOL
7. Travel the world.

8. Dance like the people on So You Think You Can Dance. They're so amazing talented!

8 Shows I Currently Watch (this will be easy for me, I'm a TV fiend)

1. Heroes

2. Big Bang Theory
3. Chuck
4. Bones (Because David Boreaneaz is H-O-T-T hot!)

5. CSI
6. Criminal Minds
7. Ace of Cakes (on Food Network)

8. Private Practice

That was fun!!!! Rather than tag a whole bunch of people, if you're bored (like me) feel free to fill it out and post it on your own blog!!! HUGS!

A Day in the Sun, and Goodies!

2009-04-16T09:47:00.007-04:00

For those who might not be Facebook friends of mine, I wanted to share some gorgeous pictures with you from my day with the hubs yesterday! We went to Cypress Gardens, hiked on the nature trails for about 2 hours, took a 45 minute canoe ride, and took in all the gorgeous nature around us!

Here we are in the middle of the wilderness, about halfway through our hike. It was like being in a fairy-land! The only sounds around us were the birds, the frogs, and the buzzing of various insects. Bliss.

And this is us in the canoe!! We were able to take the boat out and do our own "self-guided" tour of the swamp. We were told to look out for gators, but there were lots of other people on the water, too...some with loud kids. So the only animals we saw were turtles and fish. But it was still wonderful!! For those who may live in or around the Charleston area, it's totally worth the drive to come to Moncks Corner and visit Cypress Gardens! They also have a Butterfly House, a Reptile House, and a great little gift shop.

In more blog-related news, I found a new bead shop nearby!! My favorite shop is in Mt. Pleasant, which is about an hour away, and hard to get to on a regular basis. But I found another one in Summrville, which is only about 20 minutes away, so that's good!! For the most part, though, I was disappointed in their stock. Mostly glass, plastic, and tacky. But they do have a little room that has nothing but gemstones, and I was all about that! Their prices were reasonable, and some of the stuff I bought is great quality! That's exciting! Good gemstones are hard to get at a decent price! So here's what I got:

The strand is blue agate---gorgeous! In the center, from left to right, there is crackled quartz in blue and pink, candy jade in blues and greens, 2 funky hunks of amethyst, and some blue African sodalite. Yummy!! I'm looking forward to seeing what I can create with these gorgeous gemstones!! I've got enough to make duplicates (and some triplicates) so I'll be able to list some new things on my shop! FINALLY!!! :)

Hope you all have a fabulous Thurday! The weekend is almost upon us! Hooray!!!

Finished Projects, and New Ones to Begin

2009-04-13T10:52:00.005-04:00

Hey, ya'll! I mentioned the other day that I had FINALLY finished a special order that I'd been working on since early March. Well, my customer hasn't picked them up yet, so I thought I'd take some pictures so you could see what's been keeping me so busy!! :) I completed two sets for her, one to match a black onyx bracelet I'd had up in my shop, the other to complement a green and brown charm bracelet I'd already made.

(Please forgive the quality of the photos--I just snapped them really quickly so you'd get the gist!) This one's my favorite. I LOVE the necklace!!! The picture doesn't really do it justice, but there are these great speckled glass beads that are just fantastic. It's casual enough to be worn to work or to the store, but it could easily be paired with a black dress for a fancier feel. I just LOVE it! Here's the other:

Lots of green, lots of leaves....it's a very spring-like set. And she loves it!! The customer I created these items for is the very same who will be hosting a jewelry party for me at the end of the month! And THAT'S what I've got to get to work on!! Creating lots of new designs, duplicating some that have sold really well, and re-filling my inventory!!! I haven't decided whether to list those items on either shop as of yet....I hate to pay the listing fee, only to sell it at the party. If I finish any Sunchimes or anything I don't plan to take to the party, I'll certainly list those, though. I miss my shop!!

I hope you all had a wonderful Easter! And that I'll have more news for this blog again soon! Big hugs from,

Looking for New Inspiration

2009-04-07T10:02:00.005-04:00

Well, ladies and gents, once again I went and let life happen, which kept me from my Sunday afternoon of crafting. :) Ever have one of those lazy days where all you want to do is a whole lotta nothin???? Well, Sunday was that day for me. And it was WONDERFUL. But alas, I did not complete (or even start) the crafting project I'd hoped to get done. Another day, another dollar, I suppose. I'll get there one day.

Meanwhile, I've been wanting to create some new items to go into my shop. I have 2 or 3 things I could list, but keep putting off the photography because it's such a labor-filled process. When I take pictures I like to have a LOT of things to list, because it takes me so long to set up, get the light right, set up each photo, etc...but I may just have to bite the bullet and have a short session sometime in the next few days, so I can get a few new items up.

As always, I'm constantly looking for inspiration when it comes to my jewelry design. Low and behold, I was standing in line at Target with the hubs yesterday when I suddenly spied with my little eye a magazine I'd never seen before!!!

Could it be?? Is it true??? There's a magazine just for us bead freaks?? WHO KNEW?!?!?

My husband said that I made a noise much like a trapped bird when I saw the mag on the stand. Something along the lines of "EEEEeeeeeK!"

I haven't delved in yet, but it's on my agenda for today. I'm hoping to atleast get some inspiration for a new design, but if nothing else, I'll enjoy looking at all the pictures and maybe learning some new techniques!!!!

In a last little tidbit of news...I'm feeling a bit miffed with Entrecard this morning. This whole "paid ad" thing just ain't doing it for me. I don't have a problem with bloggers or fellow etsians who go this route. I just have a problem with ads about stuff I'm not interested in, and I don't think my readers will be all that interested in, being foisted upon me like so much rubbish. I thought I'd have control over what goes on my blog and what doesn't, but I read a really enlightening blog written by my pal Kat over at Candles, Crafts and Whatnot. She's pulled some quotes from the Entrecard literature that really puts the whole thing into perspective. If you're a fellow dropper who's questioning these new business tactics, I say go read Kat's blog, and let the decision-making process begin. I'll paraphrase here what I said in a comment on Kat's blog: I'm all for giving a company I like the benefit of the doubt when they're making changes that will help them in the long run. But when the main customer base is suffering, at what point do they realize how much they've screwed up? Does it take losing your most faithful, long-term droppers before they get the message? I guess we'll just have to see.

At any rate, I hope each and everyone of you has a wonderful day!! I might not be around too much until Thursday--the hubs has an unprecedented day off tomorrow (no school, no work, no nothin!!) so I'll most likely be spending the day with him. I think we may take my folks to a late lunch at Jestine's Kitchen....you've never had better meatloaf in your life! Or Coca-Cola cake. Or banana pudding. I know I'm on a diet!!! But everybody gets a cheat day, right? :) Bye everybody!

Still Here!!

2009-04-04T09:58:00.003-04:00

I can't believe it's been so long since I last posted on this blog!! I've been staying busy on my other two blogs, The FatKat Kronicles and The (Gradually) Shrinking Violet. I've had so many other things going on in my life that I feel like I've been neglecting my jewelry-making, and both my shops! Eeek!

If I'm being honest, it probably has a lot to do with the fact that I'm not getting much traffic at all. I have actually been creating new designs, but they've either been for my own personal use, or special orders for a couple of clients I've picked up from the display in my work office. I've got a big jewelry party planned for the end of this month, so I've mostly been busy working up ideas for that, to bulk up my inventory! I'm really excited about it, and nervous, too, but I think it will be a good thing for me.

I've also been side-tracked a lot by my recent decision to rejoin eDiets.com and make a new attempt at losing weight. That takes a lot of concentration, especially the first few weeks of the diet, and that's where a lot of my energy has been going lately. That also explains the recent activity on my Violet blog, which is all about weight loss!

I'm hoping that I'll be able to spend tomorrow doing nothing BUT crafting. I have a new design idea for the Sunchimes, and I've got the supplies to make a prototype. I know it's going to be a labor intensive project, though, so I keep putting it off until I have a large window of time to actually sit down and do it. Tomorrow could be perfect for that, so stay tuned!

I hope all of you have an excellent weekend, and that you'll have gorgeous weather like we're having here. It's a crisp, cool 76 with a slight breeze and beautiful blue skies. Perfect!!! I may have to spend some time outside today!!

Hugs to you all from,

Wonderful Wedding for Wonderful Friends!

2009-03-30T14:05:00.008-04:00

I'm home!!! What a wonderful weekend!!! The Kansas weather was certainly less than satisfactory for a wedding weekend, but fun was had by all anyway! Trish and Drew were married at Danforth Chapel on the University of Kansas campus, and it was a truly beautiful, personal, unique ceremony. My reading went off (mostly) without a hitch. There may have been some crying involved, which could have possibly been extremely humiliating, but I can't confirm or deny that. Ok, I'm lying. I cried like a baby. I was doing so well all day! But then I saw Trish coming down the aisle with her dad, and, well...I lost it. Which was unfortunate, because I read right after he gave her away. LOL. Trish was radiant and absolutely stunning...

...and this photo gets me started every time I see it!! This is Trish reciting her vows. So sweet! The music they chose for their wedding was so perfect for them, and made the ceremony feel that much more "perfect" for the couple. Trish walked down the aisle to "Your Song" by Elton John. Her friend, Melia, sang a wonderful version of "Let My Love Open the Door." Trish and Drew exited as man and wife to "Wrapped Up In Your Love" by Garth Brooks, and the topper, for me, was the postlude---"Burnin' Love" by Elvis Presley. So great!!!!

The reception was SUCH a major blast. There could have been...or not....copious amounts of alcohol to be consumed, since the weather kept some of the guests from coming. But, I don't think those of us who DID make it were having such a hard time keeping the bartender busy LOL. There was LOTS of dancing, including the Electric Slide, a particularly hilarious Soul Train-inspired dance line, and there might have been some Sir Mix-A-Lot...I'm fuzzy on the particulars...

Trish and Drew shared their first dance to "I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz, and they were SO CUTE singing to each other on the dance floor!!!

I went on this trip with our other long-time friend, Becca, who was my "plus one" at all the events, since my hubby had to stay home. We've all been friends since 1993, and it was so fantastic to have all of us together again. Trish's Dad made absolutely sure that Becca and I knew how much it was appreciated that we'd made the trip to the wedding, when so many hadn't. The Gates family has always been so good to us, so Becca and I were thrilled to be invited!!! The best picture taken of the entire weekend--the three of us together. This one's destined for a frame...

Friends like these are truly priceless. Truly.

Let me back pedal just a wee-bit.....for my role as Reader in the ceremony, Trish got me the most wonderful gift!!! She approached one of her favorite Etsy designers, Susan Olivio of Solivio, and asked her to put together a tutorial for me to learn how to make one her fantastic bracelets!

How wonderful is that?? Apparently, Susan creates wonderful tutorials, but Trish wanted one specifically on wire-wrapping, so Susan created this tutorial just for me. I can't WAIT to get started, and I'd like to offer a thank you to Susan for helping Trish with this gift. It was SO thoughtful, and very well received, and I'm really excited to see how everything turns out. And thanks to Trish for being such a thoughtful friend!!

I hope all of you had great weekends, too! I look forward to getting caught up on some of my favorite blogs! Until next time, big hugs from,

PS: If you'd like to see more pictures of the festivities, you can see loads more on my Facebook page!

Weddings on the Brain

2009-03-26T10:20:00.005-04:00

Hi everyone!! It's been a long time since my last post, but believe me, I have a reason!!! If you haven't read all about it on my other blog, The FatKat Kronicles, I'm going on a trip this weekend! My dear and longtime friend, Trish, is marrying her high school sweetheart, Drew, in Kansas this weekend!!! And I had the honor of being asked by the bride to write something to read during her ceremony!!

This is a picture taken at my own wedding, in September of 2004, of Trish and Drew together. Trish was my maid of honor, and although Drew was only meant to be her "plus-one," he turned out to be an invaluable asset!! He helped move our wedding site when the tide got too high, and he also volunteered to be an unofficial "usher," and helped some of our older guests get down the beach to their seats!

Trish and I met when I moved to Pawleys Island in 1993. We were 12 years old, in the seventh grade, and both fancied ourselves as writers. We used to sit in class and pass notes back and forth to each other, filled with teen-angst filled poetry we'd written. We were fast friends. We really grew up together---from first boyfriends, to first kisses, to first Proms, to first heartaches, to first hangovers----Trish and I experienced it all together. Even when she went to Clemson, and I went to Appalachian, we still stayed in touch, visiting each other as often as we could, chatting online, talking on the phone. Trish was my first high school friend to meet my husband, Brian.

Trish and Drew met the summer before our junior year of high school. He went to a different school than us, so, naturally, we were all a bit wary at first. But he treated her like gold, and none of us were surprised when she opted to go to his senior prom over ours in 1999. But the truly amazing thing is that they survived a long-distance relationship for 4 years of college, and another year after Trish graduated and moved away for a job opportunity in Kansas!! That is true love, if there ever was such a thing!!

So naturally, I'm thrilled that the two of them are finally getting married. It's been a long time coming (almost 11 years, to be exact), that's for sure! Our other long-time pal, Becca, is going to be my "plus one," and we're sure to have a fantastic time! I'll be gone until Sunday, but I promise to catch everyone up, and to have some photos of the festivities to share!

Hugs!

PS: I forgot to mention: Trish is the one who introduced me to Etsy, too!!! You should check out her shop, tiny baubles!! I bought these fantastic earrings from her, and wear them all time!!!

Generous Friends

2009-03-21T17:48:00.006-04:00

It's so great to have generous friends!! They send the most wonderful, thoughtful, sweet things to you.....

I didn't even know a pen could be covered in polymer clay---isn't this gorgeous??? Thanks so much to Kat from Candles, Crafts and Whatnot! It's lovely!!!

....and I also received this GORGEOUS ACEO, from Kristin at My Art and the Mom in Me...

Wowie!! Isn't this adorable???

Both items already have a permanent home in my office, where I'll see them and enjoy them every single day. Thanks so much to my very special friends, who were kind enough to include me in the Generosity Award giveaways. :) A little birdie told me one or two of you may have received something in the mail today from South Carolina....hope you enjoy your gifts from me!

Spring Has Sprung in SC!

2009-03-20T09:49:00.006-04:00

Happy first day of Spring, blogger friends!!! We've got the pollen, we've got the blue skies, we've got the sunshine....now all that's missing are some fantastic accessories to really get us in the mood!! So I visited Etsy this morning, and searched through the SC Street Team's inventory to see what goodies I could find. Check out these awesome artists!!!

Got any little girls running around in your life? Daughters? Neices? Grand-daughters? Well this next shop is DEFINITELY for you!! It's called Jack and Jane Designs, they hail from Greenville, SC, and they create lots of little hairbows, decorative bobby pins, and other goodies for the little girl you love. And if that's not enough, just look at these Beautiful Butterflies--Blue Paper Keepers to keep you organized!

So adorable!!! The vibrant blue really puts me in the mood for springtime---it's the color of our beautiful SC skies!!!

Next up, another artist from Greenville, who's relatively new to TeamSC. But I have to say, she's been very visible since joining, and you'll see why when I introduce her!! Meet AllyBu! She makes the most GORGEOUS handbags ever! I don't know what the style is in other places, but bags like this are crazy-popular here at the coast. And nothing reminds me of spring more than big, beautiful colors, and happy little flowers. Check out this design...her Flowers and Butterflies Handbag!

I just love, love, love these colors!! Especially the pinks and greens. This bag would be PERFECT for any casual, everyday, springtime outfit!! And if you think THIS one's fantastic, you have to check out her shop....she's got tons of bags, all of them just this gorgeous!!

Finally, I'd like to feature an artist that lives a little closer to me. She actually hails from Myrtle Beach...which is my old stomping ground! :) I grew up in Pawleys Island, and my girlfriends and I went to Myrtle Beach almost every weekend to find the fun!!! Sorry about the reminiscing, on to introducing you to Pendragon Artworks! She's a painter who makes the most fantastic, whimsical designs---you'll find t-shirts and wall art and tote bags and painted glass and all SORTS of goodies!!! My spring-time find in her shop are her Dragonfly Salt & Pepper Shakers.

How...cute....are....THESE??? Can't you just imagine having these beautiful, handpainted, glass shakers on YOUR table?? I just love them!!

I hope you'll enjoy these wonderful South Carolina artists as much as I do!! And remember---if you're interested in finding all the wonderful handmade items created by South Carolina artists on Etsy, all you have to do is search using the keyword "teamsc." It's just that easy!!! And there are tons of lovely things to see. Believe me, after searching through my fellow team mates' shops, my "favorites" folder must be about to explode! LOL! Happy searching, and happy Spring!

BIG ol' hugs from,

My Lovely Purses Prize!!!

2009-03-19T14:33:00.011-04:00

I am SO EXCITED!!!! My mail-lady delivered a very special package to me today----all the way from Germany!!! For those who might have missed it, I won a fan-TAS-tic prize in a contest hosted by Duni of Lovely Purses. I just love, love, love Duni's blog, and her hand-stitched, one-of-a-kind purses and accessories are just absolutely TO DIE FOR! Hers was one of the first blogs I started to follow when I first started blogging last year, so when I found out she was having a contest to win some of her fantastic work, I immediately entered!! And I was THRILLED to find out that I won!!! So for a little over a week now, I've been waiting with baited breath, running to the mailbox in anticipation of my prize. And it arrived....TODAY!!!

***Warning...be prepared for cheesy pictures to follow. I get WAY too excited sometimes, and goofy pictures of me are often the result. But I can't wait to show you the wonderful things that travelled across the ocean, just for little old me!!!***

Here's my lovely package!!! If you look closely you'll see the sweet little stickers Duni attached to the front, to greet me with friendliness before I even opened the envelope!!

Yes, I know, I'm about 2 days late for the green...forgive me. Here's me with my prizes, and a lovely note from Duni!!

EXTREME CLOSE-UP!!! I was expecting Duni's work to be pretty, but each item is so sweetly detailed! I loved the little button attached to the sleep mask's case, shown above, that reads Made with Love! There's also a little tag inside the change purse that reads "Dunibagz." So sweet!!

OH yeah...this sleep mask is TOTALLY making the trip to Kansas with me next weekend! I'll definitely be on the airplane long enough to need a nap!!!

Another adorable detail...look at this sweet little birdie snap on the change purse!!! TOO cute!

When I first saw the pictures of the prizes, I was immediately drawn to the change purse, and I was NOT disappointed!!!!!!! I love it!!

The last little prize was tucked inside the change purse---a sweet little hairbow!!! (Please try and ignore the fact that the pretty pink hairbow clashes horribly with my lime green shirt and matching earrings LOL) I don't quite have enough hair to pull this look off...but I'm definitely going to hang onto this little beauty, in hopes that one day, I'll have a beautiful little girl who can wear it all the time!!

Thank you SO MUCH Duni for these wonderful gifts!! But I have to say--the true gift is getting to know you, and becoming your blogger friend!!!

Happy Thursday, everyone! Big ol' hugs from,

2009-03-17T09:44:00.003-04:00

Hello, my dear blogosphere friends, and Happy St. Patrick's Day!!! I don't have much partying and merriment planned for this evening, as my partner-in-crime (the hubs) has to work a very long double today (he left at 9, and won't be home till way past midnight!). But....that's A-OK with me! Because I FINALLY got to go to the craft store yesterday, and I have a whole bag full of goodies to play with!! I plan on banging out 6 very special gifts for 6 very special ladies this evening, in hopes of getting them shipped out tomorrow!! Generosity is a wonderful thing, wouldn't you agree??? :)

I'd also like to share a little bit of Simply Charming's Etsy shop with you today---just in time for St. Patty's! My Irish Charms earrings!!!

I just LOVE LOVE LOVE those green foil beads. They're my absolute favorite color---apple green! These are my only pair of gold earrings I have listed, but they're super special! If you order them today before midnight, I won't charge you shipping!!!!! You may not have them in time to wear today, but you'll have them for next year, and for any day of the year! :)

Last but not least, if you haven't yet entered the March Madness Giveaway, featured on Diana Rambles, you have until 11:59 p.m. CST TONIGHT to enter!!! Don't let this opportunity slip away!!! If you've been meaning to enter, but haven't had the chance, take a few minutes today and head on over there to put your name in the lucky pot o' gold! :)

Happy St. Patty's everyone!! If you go out on the town tonight, drink a green beer for me! I'll be at home, working like a busy little leprechaun!!!

So Many Wonderful Things

2009-03-14T12:54:00.004-04:00

There have just been SO many wonderful things happening for Simply Charming in S.C. lately, I'm just about to burst with happiness!! First was the mega huge sale I made, thanks to my crafty little office display. Then came the offer from a customer to throw a jewelry party for me. Then there was my fantastic blog makeover, courtesy of Diana from Custom Blog Designs. And most recently has been the March Madness Giveaway, hosted by Diana on her other blog, Diana Rambles, to which there has been an AMAZING response!!! I've read so many kind, uplifting, encouraging words about my shops since this giveaway started, I'm almost too emotional to say anything about it at all!!!! Honestly--to all those who have entered, commented, twitted, and emailed, thank you SO MUCH! I'm so touched, and excited, and thrilled!!!

Then today, I checked in with my favorite team, TeamSC, the South Carolina Etsy Street Team, and found out that one of my fellow SC Etsians, Beth from PhantonARTS, has included my Under the Sea Sunchime in a new treasury on Etsy!!!! How fun is that??? It's only the second time I've ever been featured in a treasury, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed it ends up on the front page of Etsy! I mean, how could they resist?? Doesn't everyone need some summer in their lives right now???

Look at all those gorgeous pinks, yellows, blues and greens?!!?!? We are one talented group, us South Carolinian Etsy Artists!! You can find an entire list of my fellow team members at the TeamSC blog! You'll find an entire list of TeamSC members' Etsy shops, blogs, and you MIGHT even find a contest or two to enter to win fabulous prizes from these talented artists!!!

All I can say is that I hope each and everyone of you are also enjoying some of the good fortune I've been feeling lately! I'm so blessed and honored to have made so many wonderful blogger friends! Thanks to all of you for your support and friendship!!! :)

And to those 6 who I promised generosity awards to (Kristin, Kat, Diana, Sharla, Crystal & Duni), I've had a house full of guests since last Saturday, but it seems everyone's heading home today! Which means I'll get some crafting in this weekend, and hopefully be shipping your goodies by Wednesday of next week!!! I'm so excited to get started!! I can't think of 6 people who deserve a fun little gift! You've all been so kind to me since I stumbled into the blogosphere!! I'll keep you posted on my progress so you're not wondering if I forgot about you (I promise I didn't!!!)

Until next time, Happy Saturday, friends!! May the sun shine on you today, even if it's snowy/rainy/cold/dreary wherever you are! Hugs from,

Our Dear Friend's Giveaway!!!

2009-03-12T20:49:00.004-04:00

Calling all blogger friends!!!! Our dear friend, Kristin, from My Art and the Mom in Me, is being hosted at a giveaway!!!! It is our duty, as her blogger friends, to rush over to Diana Rambles, read all about Kristin and her art, and enter this contest!!!!

March Madness has arrived, people, and there's no better time to participate in all these wonderful blog giveaways. I mean, seriously, where else can you find these gorgeous paper mache beads, which are the prize for this particular giveaway???

As soon as Diana mentioned to me that Kristin was going to be a featured artist in the March Madness Giveaway, I immediately marked my calendar, rushed right over, and entered to win these sweet, pink polka dot beads!!! And believe me, these little beauties are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Kristin's talent! You have to check out her ETSY shop to see it all!! So get on over to Diana's blog, and start entering contests, people!!!!

PS: While you're there, if you haven't entered the contest to win one of my designs, you can find it HERE!!

Big Announcement!!

2009-03-11T11:50:00.005-04:00

Happy Wednesday, everyone!! I have a big announcement to make! Simply Charming in S.C. is being featured in a major giveaway over on my friend, Diana's, personal blog, Diana Rambles! Let me give you some of the wonderful details!!!

You may remember me talking a LOT about Diana recently--she is the wonderful creator behind the new face of my blog! She and I have done a lot of emailing and bartering back and forth since we "met" on the blogosphere, and our business relationship just keeps growing! She approached me about donating a prize for her March Madness giveaways, and I jumped at the chance!!! She interviewed me, and that's included in the write-up she did about Simply Charming in S.C., along with the prizes, and the rules of the contest!!!! So if you're interested in winning either my ROYGBIV S.C. Sunchime or my Day at the Beach Set, well, you'll just have to rush over to Diana Rambles and read up on how to enter!!!

It's My Lucky Day!!!

2009-03-09T12:17:00.007-04:00

I'm so happy to report good news today!! Things have been a little hard for my family the past few days--you can read all about it on my blog, The FatKat Kronicles. But I want to talk about all the WONDERFUL things that have been happening in my little blogosphere in the past few days!!!

First of all, if you'll recall, I wrote a blog a few days ago about my best blogger pal, Duni over at Lovely Purses, who was hosting an awesome giveaway on her blog! Naturally, I entered the contest, and was hoping to create even more support for her giveaway by blogging here on S.C.!! I was shocked and honored to find out that I WON!!!! How exciting is that??? I can't wait to receive my beautiful sleep mask, hair accessory, and change purse!!! Thank you SO MUCH Duni!!!! I couldn't be more excited to be your big winner!!!

My second bit of good news involves my sweet pal Kristin from My Art and the Mom in Me. She has been so kind as to give Simply Charming in SC the most fantastic award I've been awarded since I started blogging. It's called the "Generosity Award." I've never seen a blog award like this one, and I'm excited to share it with a very special few of you! But first, let me share the rules!

1) Show generosity towards others in the blogging community by giving a small gift of appreciation. This can be free advertising, a card in the mail, or anything else your imagination takes you.

2) Send this award to at least five others. If you wish to send the award to more then that, feel free to. Generosity has no limits.

3) Link back to the person who sent you this award.

4) Copy the rules as well as the award into your post.

5) Enjoy yourself and have fun!

I'd love to share this award with the following blogs!

Beaded Tail
Crystal Raen's Bloggy Things
Lovely Purses
Diana Rambles
Candles, Crafts and Whatnot

AND my awarder, My Art and the Mom in Me

Ok gang, so here's the deal....email me your mailing addresses at simplycharmingsc@gmail.com! I'd like to send you a little something...but it's a surprise!!! (For those who live out of the US, know that I've never, ever shipped anything internationally before, so it will be a learning experience for me!! But I'm up for the challenge!!!) If you're wary about giving out your mailing information, contact me at my email address, and I'll let you in on the secret via email.) It's like Secret Santa, except it's not Christmas, you know you're getting something, and it's via email! LOL! Thanks, Kristin, for including me in this special award--I look forward to spreading a little love with this! I wish I could've included all my favorite blogs in this little giveaway...but another day, I promise!

I'd like to close with a couple of pictures of how I spent my day yesterday...hopefully, if you're feeling the Monday blues, this will bring a smile to your face, if only fleeting. Happy Monday, everyone!!!

Supportin' The Team

2009-03-05T11:29:00.007-05:00

Hello all, and Happy Thursday!! I wanted to do a post to help support my favorite Etsy team, the S.C Street Team!!! You can search for us on etsy by using the keyword "TeamSC." There are SO many wonderful artists in this state, and I had such a hard time choosing just a few to feature here!!! I hope you enjoy what you see, and that you'll check out my fellow teammates!!

I like to fancy myself a novice photographer. I'm certainly not a professional, I only took one class in college, and I have a point-and-shoot digital camera. But I LOVE taking pictures, especially in nature, and every once in awhile, I actually get a good one. Well...Kim Winkeler from kwinkelerphotos is a true artist!! My favorite piece in her shop is titled "Picnic Under the Oak," and it truly captures what is beautiful about the great state we live in!

Beautiful, isn't it?? I hope you'll check her out!!!

The next South Carolinian I'd like to tell you about is Maggie, from MaggieMcManeDesigns. She is a fellow jewelry designer as well, and it was tough for me to pick just one piece to feature, because everything in her shop is gorgeous! I always admire designers who create pieces that have a light, airy, feminine feel--and Maggie does this flawlessly! The item I chose to feature is a necklace she calls "Unchain My Heart." Take a look!!

The last SC artisan I'm featuring today is Mary from BittyBooks! As a writer, and someone who keeps journals, there is nothing more special than the perfect little book to write in. Whether it's an address book, a little notepad to make your grocery lists in, or even this recipe book, you can never go wrong with one of Mary's creations:

So cute!!!! I hope you all will visit these beautiful South Carolina shops, and if you're interested in finding out more about the SC Street Team, that you'll look us up on Etsy! You can also find a full list of the South Carolina Etsy shops on our TEAM BLOG. You'll find that we're having a fantastic Luck o' the Irish Challenge---follow the rules, and you could win a fabulous 8X10 photo from Kim Winkeler, featured above!!!! Check it OUT!! It's too easy to enter not to do it!!

Oh, and PS: Have you added my new blog to your follow list yet??? I know most of us are crafters, and this blog is about life from a cat's perspective, but there will still be lots of Etsy artists features there, too!!! You can find us at FatKat Kronicles! Check us out!!! :)

The Fabulous New and Improved Simply Charming in SC

2009-03-03T17:57:00.002-05:00

If this is the first time you've visited my blog today, you'll probably notice something different...Can you believe my awesome new blog design????? Isn't it totally FAB-U-LOUS???? Thanks SO much to Diana from Custom Blog Designs. She sent me a proof last night right before I went to bed, and I seriously could NOT shut up about it. Hubby was trying to read, and I kept interrupting him...

"Can you believe how awesome it looked?"

"Didn't you just LOVE the way she incorporated the palmetto tree I asked her to use?"

"How AWESOME were those pink capital letters with polka dots??"

I seriously dreamed about getting up this morning, rushing to my computer, and updating my blog. LOL. Diana really doesn't know me at all, aside from what she's learned about me throughout this blog redesign process. And yet....she totally captured my personality completely!! All I told her was that I wanted something fun, summer-y, and colorful! I got all three of those things, and about a million others!!!!!! My absolute favorite thing about it is the palmetto tree she included in the design. It was the only thing I specifically asked for---it's our state tree, and I really wanted to emphasize the "SC" in our name. I just think it's so sweet, and subtle, and perfect.

So, if you haven't figured it out yet, you should TOTALLY get your buns over to CBD and check out all that Diana has to offer. Can't afford a fun-blown makeover?? Diana can totally whip up a little something to make your blog that much more special. Her prices are the most reasonable I've ever found when looking into web design!!! And her work is, obviously, fantastic. So if you're totally bored with your standard blogger template, or you're looking to overhaul a blog you've been staring at for awhile, Diana's your girl!!! Just look what she did for me! It's like my blog went on TLC's "What Not to Wear!" Diana is my Stacey London!!!!! Thanks girl!!!

Oh and PS, check out my new awesome signature:::

My Brand New Blog!!!

2009-03-02T17:23:00.004-05:00

Hello, all!!! I have another quick update to share with everyone today!!! I've created a new blog, inspired by Sharla and the gang over at The Beaded Tail! It's called "The FatKat Kronicles!"

You guessed it---it's going to be a blog all about my cats!! I'm planning on doing features from their points of view, a blog a week from my own personal point of view on being a pet owner, and various other goodies (like features of etsy and Artfire sellers who create pet-inspired items, or local charities who rescue misplaced or abused pets, or fun videos or stories that are in the news). At any rate, I have had a blast putting this together so far, and I'd like to invite all my readers to check it out!!! :0)

Hugs from

Tweet, Tweet!

2009-03-02T12:00:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to post a quick little update---according to all my blogger friends, Twitter is, in fact, a valuable tool! So...I joined up!! You can find my cute little "follow me" button where the poll used to be!!! So...come find me! Cuz I'm a newbie and I don't have a clue what I'm doing! LOL

I do have to say, though...I'm not that impressed with Twitter just yet. Maybe I'm on at the busiest time of the day, but it keeps timing out and saying there are too many "tweets" to support another one. Which is UBER frustrating when you're trying to update your profile, change your background, etc. BUT...I'm staying optimistic and hoping this will increase traffic to my stores!!!

On the plus side, I think the birdies are cute! LOL

Hugs,

I'm Not Dead!!!

2009-02-28T15:23:00.006-05:00

Hello, blogger friends!! It's been eons since my last post, and I just wanted to let you all know--I'm still here!!! My husband has been on vacation from work this week, and so I haven't had much free time to blog, or craft! We've been busy re-decorating, entertaining, and relaxing. It's been fantastic!! Here's a pic of my new living room...

The rug and sofa are both brand new---and you can barely see it in the corner of the picture, but we also bought this fantastic ottoman for extra seating. The lid flips up and you can store stuff inside it. Groovy!!! My husband has been enjoying testing the new furniture for the past few days. In all honesty, it is a dangerous place to sit. I was watching Oprah the other day whilst sitting upon my new sofa, and luckily, I woke up at the end credits!! LOL

I had a few little odds and ends I wanted to blog about today, so this blog won't be completely cohesive, but I have some catching up to do....so just stick with me!

First of all, I'm looking forward to having a brand spankin' new layout for Simply Charming in SC, thanks to Diana from Custom Blog Designs!!! I just loved my new button/banner she created for me a few weeks ago that I couldn't wait another week to order a fabulous makeover from my favorite new graphics designer. Seriously---if you're looking to make your blog, etsy or Artfire shop look amazing, go check out Diana's work. And stay tuned for a new updated, cohesive look---hopefully I'll have it all up and gorgeous next week!!!

I also wanted to let all my fellow etsians out there know that the ever-so-sweet Duni from Lovely Purses is having a celebratory giveaway, thanks to her 100th blog post! She's giving away the most adorable little gift bag to the winner, filled with some of her lovely handmade items! My favorite is this sweet little coin purse...I'm hoping it might be mine before too long!!

How absolutely adorable is that??? I already have plans for it, if I manage to win her giveaway!!! Visit her blog to find out all the ins and outs of the contest. And even if you don't enter, you should still follow Duni's blog---her work is always inspired, ultra-feminine, and she's really just the nicest person I've had the opportunity to "meet" in the blogosphere!!! Congrats on your continued success with your blog and shop, Duni!!!

Last but not least, one of my OTHER favorite gal pals in the blogosphere, Kat from Candles, Crafts and Whatnot, has given Simply Charming in SC another beautiful award!!! And truly, it could be my favorite I've received yet. It's called the "Let's Be Friends" award, and here's a little about what it means:

"These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement (? big word, lol). Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers. Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award."

My dear, sweet Kat...thank you for thinking of ME when you passed along this award!!! I never intended on making so many new friends when I started my blog--I was honestly looking for yet another creative outlet. I've been so touched by the many wonderful people I've met through the blogosphere, and so I'm excited to share this friendship award with the following bloggers:

Duni from Lovely Purses (♥♥♥In case you missed her shop link before, here it is again!)
Kristen from My Art and the Mom in Me (♥♥♥I think I give her an award everytime I get one...but I just can't help it!! Her adorableness is addictive!!)
Sharla from Beaded Tail (♥♥♥I just love reading her blog everyday....and shhhhhhh.....she might have inspired me to start blog #3! Coming soon??? Perhaps???)
Crystal from Crystal Raen's Bloggy Things (♥♥♥My very first blogger friend, and another I always give the awards to!)
Diana from Custom Blog Designs (♥♥♥My first blogger friend turned customer turned soon-to-be blog makeover designer!! Diana rocks!)
Mollie from Mu-Yin Jewelry (♥♥♥I started following Mollie's blog because I was totally in awe of her gorgeous creations---now I read because she's so sweet and endearing! You have to go read her current blog!! So cute!)
Kat from My Girls and Me (♥♥♥Kat is a new blogger friend, and one who always leaves the sweetest comments! I look forward to getting to know her better in the future!)
Hazel from Nascarnana's Ramblings (♥♥♥ Hazel is a fellow SC Etsy Street Team member, and one I wanted to share this award with!)

Nothing makes me happier than sharing this award with just a few of my wonderful blogger friends!!! Have fun passing it along, ladies!!! (PS: I'm just noticing the lack of men on my blogs-I-follow list. Hmm...is there a gender issue here? I must search for some testosterone in the blogosphere!!!)

In the days to come, I've got a LOT of work to do....rebuilding my inventory after that last big sale (thanks to all who commented, by the way!), some new Sunchimes I need to finish, a close friend's very special necklace she's asked me to re-string, as well as getting my blog beautified!! So I'll expect you'll hear from me quite a bit in the next few days!!! I'm also still considering joining Twitter---it looks like about 60% of you who have voted so far say I should do it!!! So I'll keep you posted on what I decide to do with that!! Until next time, happy Saturday dear friends!! (Hope yours isn't as rainy as ours is here in SC today!)

My Office Display

2009-02-19T10:52:00.004-05:00

I mentioned a few days ago that I had purchased a wrought-iron photo holder to use as a display in my office. Well...I FINALLY got around to getting the thing put together and now have it in it's new home. Here it is:

Ta-Dah!

Here's hopin' it actually wrangles some sales. I was looking at my Etsy site today, and some of my listings have magically disappeared. They aren't in my expired listings, they are just *POOF* gone. Hmm...I'm not 100% sure what happened, and I'm unsure whether I want to pay for the re-listing fees, since I didn't delete them, they weren't purchased, and they didn't expire. Maybe it's time for me to list with ArtFire permanently. I'll let you guys know what I decide. :)

Hugs!

UPDATE 5 pm, same day: I just sold $60 worth of jewelry from my display!!! I had a customer come in who loved my work---she bought practically all of the earrings on the display, plus some I had in my storage box!!! She also asked me to hold 2 earring/bracelet sets for her, create matching necklaces, and she's going to come back for those later!!! AND, as if it couldn't get any better, she wants to throw me a jewelry party, invite all her friends over, and let them look at my stuff, too!!!??!? I'M SO HAPPY!!!!!!! And I'm feeling validated---I haven't been selling well online at ALL, but this makes me feel like a real jewelry designer for the first time since I started 6 months ago!! YAY!!!

Tags Galore!!!

2009-02-18T14:02:00.009-05:00

I guess I let the cat out of the bag when I got so excited about being tagged by Mollie from Mu-Yin Jewelry the other day...now I've been tagged twice!!! Goodie!!! I love these things--truly, I can't get enough.

So the first tag comes from Kat at Candles Crafts and Whatnot! It's an Ipod game!!

Here are the RULES:

1. Put your Music Player on shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.
3. YOU MUST WRITE THAT SONG NAME DOWN NO MATTER HOW SILLY IT SOUNDS.
4. Tag your friends.

Ok, so, let me remind you that my taste in music can only be referred to as "ecclectic." So, without further ado...here are my answers:

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF?
"Low Down, Dirty, and Bad" -- Keb' Mo (This is already proving to be interesting.)

WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A MAN?
"Solitude" -- Edwin McCain (Not really. I'm very needy.)

HOW DO YOU FEEL TODAY?
"I've Got Dreams To Remember" -- Buddy Guy and John Mayer (Nostalgic, apparently.)

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE?
"Dirty Dancing" -- New Kids on the Block (LOL)

WHAT'S YOUR MOTTO?
"Ninety-Nine and a Half (Won't Do)" -- Edwin McCain (That's actually pretty accurate...it's a blues song that basically says when it comes to love, it's all or nothin'. Ninety-nine and a half percent just ain't enough for me LOL)

WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
"Freak Out" -- 311 (We do freak out when we see each other...all my friends live far away!)

WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
"My Girl" -- The Temptations (Ok it's really weird that this song came up--it was the song I danced to with my dad at my wedding!! He used to sing this to me when I was a little girl. What are the chances??? This is spooky!!!)

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
"Play that Funky Music" -- Wild Cherry (hahaha)

WHAT IS 2 + 2?
"Alive" -- Edwin McCain (Can you tell he's my favorite?)

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?
"Amber" -- 311 (Amber is the color of your energy...WOAH)

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
"Hollywood Swinging" -- Kool and the Gang (Fo' shizzle. I'm a playa.)

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
"Popsicle" --New Kids on the Block (uhh...sure)

WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
"Feels So Good" -- 311 (That's so true!!!)

WHAT WILL/DID YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING?
"Peaceful Easy Feeling" -- Eagles (Nice song, but not really. We danced to...SHOCKER!...Edwin McCain "Could Not Love You More.")

WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
"Damn Right I've Got the Blues" -- Buddy Guy (LOL...fitting, actually)

WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST?
"Summertime" -- New Kids on the Block

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST FEAR?
"The Sky is Crying" -- Stevie Ray Vaughn (That would be kinda scary.)

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET?
"Tonight" -- New Kids on the Block (Maybe that I have New Kids songs on my Ipod? Of course, it's not much of a secret now LOL)

WHAT DO YOU WANT RIGHT NOW?
"What Matters" -- Edwin McCain (Aww if you knew the lyrics to that song, you'd know why this is a sweet answer)

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
"The Best of my Love" -- The Eagles

WHAT WILL YOU POST THIS AS?
"Ragdoll" -- Aerosmith

That was a blast!!!! This one is kind of labor intensive, so rather than tag a bunch of people who will ultimately feel obligated to fill it out (as I know I'm one of few who actually enjoy these types of time-killers LOL) I'll just say....if ya wanna do it, DO IT! :) And let me know, so I can read your answers!!!!

The second tag I mentioned comes from sweet lil' Kristin from My Art and the Mom in Me. This is a game called 6 by 6. Find the sixth image in your sixth folder and tag six people to do the same. So, here goes!

Cool! This pic was snapped at the Atlanta Aquarium in June of 2007. Hubby whisked me away for a romantic stay in ATL for my birthday, and we went to see the giant whale sharks! It was such a fun trip. We also went to the Coke museum, which was a blast, and spent some time in down-town Atlanta. I'd love to go back!

Ok, so, here are the 6 lucky individuals I am tagging...
Sharla from Beaded Tail
Kat from Candles, Crafts and Whatnot
Crystal from Crystal Raen's Bloggy Things
Diana from Diana Rambles
Duni from Lovely Purses
Mollie from Mu-Yin Jewelry

Ok gang, there's my taggin' for the day!! For those who'd like to participate...have fun! Till next time, love and sunshine from

Featured in My First Treasury!!!

2009-02-16T14:25:00.004-05:00

I got some wonderful news today---my Under the Sea Sunchime was listed in a lovely ocean-themed treasury...

...which can be found HERE!!!

How exciting!!! I have to thank Gracee from Abeachthing, for including me in her lovely treasury!! Gracee creates the most wonderful beach-inspired art, from jewelry to hand-painted signs and more. Check her out!!

Also, a special thanks to Bettie from BirdHaven for coming to my rescue and helping me figure out how to post the above picture of the treasury. When I couldn't figure it out, she offered to do it for me!! How sweet is that!!! And not only is Bettie kind-hearted, she's a brilliant gift-card designer!!! So check her out, too!!!

Hopefully, this will mean I'll finally sell that Sunchime---here's hoping!!!!! Keep your fingers crossed, people!!!

I also wanted to ask all my fellow crafters out there for your opinion on something. I've been trying to promote my shops, both at Artfire and on Etsy---which is how this blog started in the first place! I also have a Facebook page and a myspace page. I also drop entrecards. Now I'm noticing everyone talking about Twitter. Is Twitter an effective way to promote my shop?? Or will it just take even more time away from crafting?? I'd love to hear your opinion on this subject---I've also posted an opinion poll up top. So don't be shy---tell me why you LOVE Twitter, or why you hate it! And tell me what it will do for my shop if I join!!! Thanks for any input in advance!!!

Till next time, from,

A Birthday Contest

2009-02-14T09:37:00.002-05:00

Have you been thinking about vamping up your blog? Perhaps changing the background, creating a new button, or changing the look of the entire thing?? Can you imagine how much time, and skill, that would take??? Do you have all the tools at your disposal???

Never fear, Diana is here!!! I know I've talked about her before, but Diana from Custom Blog Designs is the most talented blog designer I know!! She created my gorgeous button, as well as my matching etsy/artfire banner (seen at the bottom of my blog). Her work is truly inspired!!

But the economy is so bad right now, you say?? Don't have the money to spend on a blog makeover right now?? Well then I'd like to tell you about the chance to WIN one!!! It happens to be CBD's 1st birthday, and Diana is planning a HUGE giveaway!!!

There are three simple rules: 1) Post one of her buttons up on your blog; 2) Become a follower of CBD (which of course you should do, because you never know what she'll post!! It's a great read!) and 3) Post a blog of your very own all about CBD & why you love it so much. Then let her know you've done these things and VOILA--you've been entered into the contest!!! (I think each rule gets you an entry...check out her blog for complete rules!)

I had actually been thinking about having Diana make my blog look as fabulous as my button and banner, and this was the perfect opportunity for me to enter such a great contest. How generous is she?? I don't know about you, but I'm all about attending this birthday bash!!! It feels a wee bit selfish of me to enter since I was lucky enough to win Viewer of the Week, and my fabulous button/banner. But I couldn't pass up the chance to enter this contest!! And you shouldn't either!!!!! Head on over to Custom Blog Designs and get started!

Best of luck, and Happy Birthday CBD!!!

Big birthday hugs from

We've Been Invaded!!!

2009-02-13T16:35:00.006-05:00

This post is going to be totally unconventional, not at all about crafting or etsy or jewelry, but highly entertaining. I promise. Just bear with me.

A boy's lifelong dream was realized today. My husband, Brian, has wanted an Alienware computer since...well, since they came into existence. For those who might not know, Alienware is an offshoot of Dell, and they create uber-computers for the gamers in the world. The Area 51,which is the model we ordered, has more memory than you can imagine, 2 graphics cards, 4 processors, 5 internal fans....and a lot more super-impressive computer stuff that I don't understand. Suffice it to say that, if your computer is a Lexus, this one is a Maserati.

When the UPS driver knocked on the door and said, "You might want to take a look at this box before you decide where you want it," I knew we were in for a treat. The box it came in took up half of my living room. Seriously.

I don't know how well you can see it, but there's a ghost of an alien head on the side of the box. When you're looking straight at it, it just looks like a big black box. When I took the picture I freaked out. "OH MY GOD!" I screamed. "There's an alien on the box!!!" Creepy. And yet, the beginning of a theme. There are little aliens everywhere---on the front of the computer, on the complimentary mouse pad...Brian even got a free hat. At any rate...when he saw the box, there was a prompt (and quite hilarious) spell we will call a "man-swoon."

I love that man.

He immediately started to unpack the thing--he'd spent all morning getting our desk "just so," cleaning out all the drawers and everything in anticipation of his new toy. When he pulled the PC out of the box, I thought he was joking. Using the adjective "big" just doesn't do this thing justice. Want proof? Look:

In the foreground---our old PC. Normal, run-of-the-mill, Compaq desktop PC. Behind it--Area 51. Even Scooter can't believe how big it is.

Anyone who's ever set up a new computer knows that it will prompt you to name it. Most people name it "Home Computer" or "Abby's Computer." Not us. We named ours Moya. Any Farscape fans out there?? Any at all???? For those unfamiliar, Farscape was a show on the Sci-Fi channel that we were absolutely addicted to. Get it? Sci-Fi...show about aliens....alienware....Moya was the Leviathan living ship on that show.

Sigh. I miss that show. Never seen it? Order it on Netflix. NOW. Seriously!!! :)

Where Has All My Free Time Gone??

2009-02-10T11:56:00.005-05:00

I can't believe it's Tuesday, and I haven't done any crafting in what feels like weeks!! I've got a huge project lined up, all my supplies purchased and waiting in their little plastic bags to be organized and put to use. The last week or two has flown by amidst doctor's visits and trips to the pharmacy! I'm definitely feeling like my blog, AND both my shops are suffering! But the important thing is that I'm feeling better, I've got a great plan of attack with my doctor for future progress, and I've got my energy back. So HOORAY for that!! (If you're interested in details regarding all this medical stuff, you can find them at my other blog, The (Gradually) Shrinking Violet!)

The one thing I've manged to accomplish was FINALLY getting some business cards professionally printed. The ones I was printing off my computer were usually hit-or-miss. Sometimes they looked fantastic, other times they printed crooked or the colors were off. So I met with my friendly neighborhood Staples, found out what my options were, and designed a business card that they printed off for me for next to nothing!!

So they look a ton better than THIS picture when they're all printed up, but I wanted to give you an idea of what they looked like. I'm thrilled with how they turned out! My next plan of attack is to create a little display of some of my jewelry to put in my office. I got my boss's permission to start selling here, so that's fantastic. I bought this adorable little photo tree to use as the display. It's black iron...I'll take a picture of it when it's all done and put it up for everyone to see. I'm just going to stick a few business cards in there, and hang some earrings where the pictures are supposed to go...and VIOLA! Instant jewelry stand!! :) So if I can't sell online, maybe I can sell in person!

Hopefully I'll have some new Sunchimes to list, soon. So, until then...happy Tuesday, everyone! From

I FINALLY Got Tagged!!! :)

2009-02-06T10:00:00.003-05:00

Happy Friday, gang!! I thought I'd post up a quick update--I know last time I blogged I let you all in on the fact that I'm having some health issues. I didn't go into much detail on this blog, since it's meant to be all about crafting and my life as a jewelry designer. For those who might be interested in a more detailed description of what's going on in my personal life, you might check out my other blog, The (Gradually) Shrinking Violet...if you haven't already. :) At any rate--the meds I was prescribed seem to be doing what they're supposed to, so I'm hoping to make a full recover soon.

In other news...I FINALLY got tagged!!! LOL...I've been reading all these wonderful personal posts that my blogosphere friends have been posted, and secretly hoping someone would tag me, and it finally happened!! I'm sort of ridiculously addicted to surveys, questionaires, and such things, so this is a fun thing for me. Anyway, thanks to Mollie from Mu-Yin Jewelry! Mollie creates the most BEAUTIFUL jewelry, ever...click HERE to visit her etsy shop!

Ok gang, here we go. Here are 7 random facts about ME!:
1.) I have a WEIRD job. Truly...I am an onsite business manager for a self-storage facility. Which means hubby and I actually live on the facility and are responsible for upkeep, groundskeeping, and security as well as all the legal and monetary ins-and-outs of the business. My house is actually inside one of the storage buildings. It's really weird, but it pays the bills, and we live here rent and utilitles free--which in this economy, is a wonderful thing!!!

2.) I secretly think of myself as an at-home Rachael Ray. I get a little too excited when it comes to chopping garlic or veggies with my chef's knife, and I'm never too afraid to try a new recipe. It took me a couple of years, but I consider myself a foodie now.

3.) I have the personal opinion that most music released since 1999 is crap (with a few exceptions.) I have a very eclectic taste in music and listen to things most people don't. A few of my favorite artists are Edwin McCain, Keb' Mo, and the Monkees.

4.) I am a HUGE football fan. My husband and I are mega-Carolina Panthers fans. We get strange looks on gamedays if we go out, because we're always sporting our matching jerseys. We never miss a game, whether it's on TV or in Charlotte, and I'm one of a handful of wives who actually follows team news year-round. In fact, it's not uncommon for me to inform my husband of things relating to our team before he's had the chance to find them out for himself!

5.) My top 5 favorite movies of all time are: Stardust, Hairspray (the new one, with Nicki Blonski), Secondhand Lions, Clerks and Big Fish. (This list is ALWAYS subject to change!)

6.) Don't ask me what my favorite color is, because I truly don't have an answer. It changes depending on my mood. Today, I'm feeling like apple green is my favorite. Tomorrow, it could be sunshine yellow, or hot pink.

7.) I am an absolutey Harry Potter freak. I often quote Albus Dumbledore, and I've read the series so many times, I've lost count. In fact, I'm re-reading it again now, in preparation for the upcoming movie coming out this summer!

Yay! That's me in a nutshell. Here are the folks I'm tagging:

My Art and the Mom in Me
Crystal Raen's Bloggy Things
Beaded Tail
Diana Rambles
Candles, Crafts and Whatnot
Thousand Word Balance

That was fun. :) Feel free to join in the fun, ladies, if you'd like!! Until next time, from,

Big Thanks, Awards, and Some News

2009-02-02T10:06:00.004-05:00

Happy February, bloggers! It's looking to be a good month for us here in the Chamberlain household!! I'm hoping things will be a bit better for our families in the upcoming month--that the job market will pick up so my Dad and brother can find jobs; that hubby knocks his tests coming up in the next week or two out of the ballpark; that my new shop at ArtFire, as well as my existing shop on Etsy, start to pick up and I start making some SALES!!!!

I wanted to say thanks to everyone who posted so much love on my last couple of blogs--I've been TERRIBLE about returning comments!! I'm so sorry about that!!! I have a few reasons why both my blogs haven't been updated everyday like usual---more on that momentarily.

In the last couple of days I've been given some fantastic awards I'd like to share with you!! The first was awarded by my dear friend Kat from Candles, Crafts, and Whatnot. Kat has been so wonderfully kind and supportive of Simply Charming in SC since it's beginning, and I can't begin to thank her enough for this lovely Marie Antoinette award!

How pretty is that??? Thank you so much, Kat! As there don't appear to be any rules that accompany this award, I'll be passing it along to anyone who needs a pick-me-up today!! After all, it was Marie Antoinette who said, "Let them eat cake!" And since I can't have any cake, I'll have a Marie Antoinette award instead!!! :)

The other award I wanted to share with you today comes from my new best pal, Diana, who most recently rocked our socks with Simply's new banner and button combo!! While most of you may know her from Custom Blog Designs, she also has a personal blog called Diana Rambles, and that's where this award was posted. Thanks Diana!!! This award is called the "Life is Grand" award...
Darlin'!!! This award comes with some fun rules: List 5 reasons why you think life is "grand" and pass along the happiness to five fellow bloggers!!!!! I think my life is grand because:

1. I have been so blessed in love with my wonderful husband, Brian, who is my perfect fit in every way.
2. I have wonderful parents who aren't just my family but my very best friends.
3. I have four silly cats who make my life bright and happy!
4. I've found a new hobby that I adore and that brings me much pleasure (blogging!)
5. I have the type of job security that many would kill for, and I'm grateful for it every single day!

Five of my favorite bloggers who will receive this award from me today!:
Sharla from Beaded Tail
Kat from Candles, Crafts and Whatnot
Crystal Raen from Crystal Raen's Bloggy Things
Duni from Lovely Purses
Kristin from My Art and the Mom in Me

Yay! I can't wait to find out what makes your lives grand, ladies!!! :) Happy posting!

As far as the news I mentioned: I've not been feeling too well lately. I have some health concerns I'd rather not get into just yet, as I don't have all the available facts, but I've been spending a lot of time just resting. Hence why I haven't been keeping up with my blogs very well, particularly my weight-loss blog, The (Gradually) Shrinking Violet. Weight loss has sort of taken a back seat right now. Things seem to be looking up a bit this morning, so I'm hopeful. I may be going to see my doctor sometime this week, just to confirm that everything is A-OK! So, more news later!! For now, if I go MIA, you'll know why. No need to worry about me, I'm fine--just a little under the weather. :)

So, until next time, happy February everyone! Hugs, from,

Reasons to Adore Custom Blog Designs!!!

2009-01-31T09:26:00.005-05:00

Many may have already noticed my lovely new button...just to the right of this post. I am proud to announce that Simply Charming in SC on etsy has received a much-needed, much-anticipated, much-AWESOME make-over!! Say hello to my new etsy banner and entrecard button!!!!

THANK YOU, DIANA, FROM CUSTOM BLOG DESIGNS!!!!

I absolutely adore the new design you created for my shop! I love the colors, I love the vibrancy, I love it, love it, love it!!! For those who might not know, I'd like to point out the lovely green palmetto trees---that's South Carolina's State tree, and appears on our flag!! When Diana and I started talking about what I wanted for my shop, I told her I'd love to incorporate some aspect of SC into the design, and this is what she came up with!!!

If you haven't already, you should TOTALLY check out her shop. Her work is fantastic, it took no time at all, and she was open to endless possibilities!! So if your shop, or blog, or entrecard need a makeover, Diana's your girl!!!
*****************************************************************************************************************
In other news, I finally got things worked out over at ArtFire, so I'm ready for the world to see my new shop there!!

Visit SimplyCharminginSC's ArtFire Shop

Yay! You'll notice most things are the same as the things listed in my etsy shop...with the exception of one or two things. I did list another Sunchime there yesterday that I haven't listed at etsy yet...it's called "Roygbiv."

It's a rainbow! :) Anyways, check out my new shop!! My main focus right now, other than promoting my new Sunchimes, it taking more pictures of the jewelry I've been trying to sell on etsy now since September. I think I'm getting a lot better with it, and am learning (by trial and error) all the things I need to know about lighting, props, white balance, flash, and the macro setting on my camera to make my pictures "etsy quality."

Well anyways, I need to go wake up my hubby and send him to the grocery store. So I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!! Enjoy the Super Bowl!!!
Hugs from,

Hip-Hip-HOORAY!!!!

2009-01-26T10:10:00.002-05:00

Who's doing cartwheels in her living room this morning???

ME!!!!

And why is she doing cartwheels in her living room this morning, you might ask?

Because Diana at Custom Blog Designs chose Simply Charming in S.C. as her Visitor of the Week!!!!!!!

How fantastic is that!!! :) I'm so super-jazzed!!! I'm a winner! LOL...and I get to choose between a customized blog button, signature, graphic, or scrap-book page. I also get a 15% off coupon any of CBD's services!! How nifty is that! So I'm asking for a new blog button...as you can see, mine is a little, well, sad...so now I can stop being uber-jealous of Kristin over at My Art and the Mom in Me since she got one recently, too!!!

Thanks so much, Diana!! You absolutely made my Monday!!!

In other news...I signed up for Art Fire yesterday, and I have to confess....so far, I'm lovin' it! I'm having some technical difficulties with the URL to my studio...once I have those worked out, I'll be sure and put up a link so you can check it out! I've only listed my very favorite pieces over there. If I have any luck, I may be moving....so we'll just have to wait and see. I'm going to keep both shops open for now, in hopes that the Sunchimes I blogged about yesterday bring in some business.

Happy Monday, everyone!! Big hugs (especially to Diana!!!) from

FINALLY!!! New Items at Simply Charming in SC!!!

2009-01-25T12:44:00.006-05:00

It's the announcement you've all been waiting for!! (Hopefully those of you who wrote me to say you actually were holding your breath for this moment haven't passed out yet...)

I've finally finished, photographed, cropped, lightened, measured, and listed my secret project up on my Etsy page today!!! Drum Roll Please......

S.C. Sunchimes on Simply Charming in SC at etsy!!!:

Under the Sea Sunchime

Quiet Forest Sunchime

Sunset Valley Sunchime

Hooray!! This idea was inspired by several different things: 1) my mom LOVES windchimes, and I wanted to create something similar, but with beads. 2) I wanted to put something on my etsy site that would be unique and different--and I've never really seen anything like this on etsy before. My hope is that people will be interested in the Sunchimes, and come to my shop to see those, and stick around to see my jewelry!!! 3) I have SO MANY glass beads, and I needed a way to use them up!! When you make earrings, or a bracelet, you really don't use that many beads. So I always have some left over from my jewelry projects. This is a great way to use them up, and they look so pretty in the sunshine! Which brings me to the main reason for this design: 4) Sunshine is something we have an abundance of here in S.C. Now I can harness it in an artful way!

I also listed 4 new earring designs on my shop today: Van Gogh Earrings, Watermelon Rain, How You Got Your Groove Back Earrings, and January's Icicles. I hope you'll go check them out!!!

Whew. I'm exhausted! LOL....now I'm off to investigate what a new shop would cost me...I'm thinking ArtFire....

Until next time, happy shopping!!! from,

Lemonade Anyone?

2009-01-23T11:00:00.003-05:00

Wowie Zowie!! I got another Lemonade Award! Thanks to Cathleen from Tialey Vintage Clothing for the honor!!! It's been such a long time since I put anything new up on my Etsy site that it feels like I've been neglecting it. But it's nice to know that at least my blog is being enjoyed!!! At any rate, I am planning a trip to the craft store today, to finish up that elusive secret project, so I can hopefully take some photographs tomorrow and get them listed!!! AH, I'm rambling...here's my lovely Lemonade Award!!!!

Like all things, this award comes with rules...well, I'm a rule-breaker. LOL...it says I'm supposed to nominate 10 other blogs for this award. I love spreading the blog love, but I could only come up with 6 this morning that I wanted to share with you!! They're all fairly new on my radar, and each one is unique and special in it's own way! So without further ado, I present to you my list of nominees for the Lemonade Award!!!

Custom Blog Designs : Diana over at CBD does AMAZING work...don't believe me? Check her out!!!! You won't be sad that you did, believe me. She can turn a boring blog beautiful in no time!!! Once you see her gorgeous designs, you'll covet one for your own blog, guaranteed. (I know I do!!)
Dandyapple : I found this gem through entrecard. What immediately struck me were the gorgeous blue earrings...I wanted them right off the bat!!! (Alas, they had already sold...) Her work is gorgeous, check her out!!!
Meka Candles : Another entrecard find--what I love the most about this blog is that it's unpretentious, simple, and lovely. You'll love it too!
PurrPrints : That's right, I'm the cat lady. LOL...this blog is GORGEOUS, creative, and cleverly written. Cats rock. :)
Size What? : This blog actually came to my attention when it's author found me on entrecard. She's travelling the same road I am with weight loss, and it's great to find someone else out there struggling to say no to the ho-ho's too!!! Really insightful, and personal blog, that is a must read!

The Pink Chandelier : First impressions about this blog: adorable, well put-together, girl-tastic!!! There's nothing I love more than pink. Then you start reading the posts...well, it's just fantastic!! I especially loved her recent blog about American Idol. Check her out!!

There you go, gang!!! Have some lemonade, on me! And for the rest of my readers, enjoy!!! Indulge!! Have fun reading these wonderful blogs.

Everyone keep your fingers crossed (but don't hold your breath....I don't want that on my conscience) that my NEXT post will be announcing new items in my Etsy shop!!!! Until then, hugs from,

Featured Artists: HOPE!

2009-01-20T11:00:00.007-05:00

I felt compelled today to make some sort of post about the Inauguration of President Elect Barack Obama. I'm so excited for today, and ready for a change in our country. For the first time in a long time, I can feel HOPE shimmering in the air!!

Since this is a blog about crafting, and not a political blog, I decided to feature a few Etsy artists who I think will help me express the feelings I have today! Here they are!

This gorgeous pendant is double-sided, reading "Hope" on one side, and "Yes We Can" on the other. It can be found at JuliaCatherine!! Julia's shop is filled with gorgeous jewelry, ranging from engraved pendants, like this one, to adorable floating heart earrings and delicious apple green drop pendants. You must check her out!!!

I just love this design, and you can only find it at twigsandheather! She calls it "truly one of a kind" and she's right---this peace symbol is simple but elegant, and speaks a thousand words at just a glance. Check out her shop to find beautiful nature-inspired jewelry!

Doesn't this gorgeous oil painting from GinnetteCreations make you proud to be an American??!! This Etsy shop artisan is from Jonesboro, Georgia, and the harbor you see depicted behind the flag is Savannah. It makes me tear up a little, it's just so gorgeous. And a true testament of pride in our nation!!

What can I say? This one says it all. This photograph, available at risamay, is the perfect representation of everything today stands for, for me. Not only would it be a beautiful addition to anyone's home, but according to the artist: "the proceeds from the sale of this series were donated to benefit the Obama for America 2008 campaign, up to the legal campaign contribution limit. Now that Barack has been elected, all proceeds will be set aside in a fund to do good works; as inspired by Obama's mandate to the American people to reengage in civic life and become more involved on a personal level, to enact change/s." How great is that?????

I hope, wherever you are today, that you take a moment to reflect on how lucky we truly are to be Americans. Whether black or white, Republican or Democrat, rich or poor, we truly live in the greatest nation on the face of the planet. Where else could a day like today happen??

Until next time, friends, God bless you AND God bless America!!!

So Nice!!!!!!

2009-01-17T13:28:00.003-05:00

So I've been checking all my comments and catching up on all my other wonderful blog friends today, and someone did something so nice for me and my blog, I just HAD to share it with you. It absolutely left me in tears!!

I recently awarded Kat from Candles Crafts and Whatnot a blog award. I really did mean everything I said about her blog---"fun, colorful, always delightful to read!" I read a LOT of blogs on a daily basis, and there are really only a handful of special ones that I keep up with regularly, Kat's being one of those. So I love to pass along these treasures I find on the blogsphere to my readers. Afterall, there's nothing better than finding a beatiful, witty, well-written blog, especially if it's about something I love, like crafting!

Well, Kat picked up her award recently, and she wrote the most WONDERFUL blog, all about Simply Charming in SC!!! It left me feeling all warm and fuzzy inside! She talked a lot about my etsy shop, but the one thing she said that made me get all teary eyed:

"I also love the way she blogs, she is like the best friend you sit down and have a cup of coffee with! Not many people can pull off that easy going style, but Abby can. Her writing seems as if she is talking to you, not all high falutin' and polished up to please the masses. Like I said, a good friend..... going to her blog and reading is a comfortable experience, and all the while, you can enjoy her latest creations."

Oh...my...goodness!! THANK YOU KAT!!! The entire blog just absolutely made my day, and I hope you'll go and read it! In fact, you should read her blog everyday, she's just that great!!!

Thanks again, Kat!

Hugs from,

Weighing my Options...and other Random Stuff

2009-01-15T10:29:00.008-05:00

I've been thinking a LOT lately about my home at Etsy. I love my shop, and I love the way Etsy works...but I'm just not making any sales!!! I get tons of compliments on my work, from friends and strangers alike, and for a LONG time I was worried that I wasn't "Etsy material." But the longer I've thought about it, and the more I've researched it, the more it just seems like Etsy might be a little too filled with other jewelry designers. It's true what they say, that people love variety...

But a little too much variety makes your head spin, right?

So I've been trying to decide exactly how I want to continue on with Simply Charming in S.C. in this new year. And I've got a couple of options.

Option #1: Stay with Etsy, but create my own website that links to my shop, to help promote even MORE! This was my hubby's idea. He seems to think that people would have an easier time finding me through search engines than they would on Etsy itself. We have a little experience with creating web-sites...we created the site for the business that I run: Lock-Tite Mini Storage. Of course, our hands were tied with this design, because the owner of the facility didn't want to pay that much for it. (It took me 3 years of working for him to convince him that people actually use the internet just as much...if not more...than the yellow pages!!) So the simple, blah design was NOT my idea...just something basic to appease the boss. I'm sure that I could come up with something a little more fantastic for SC. But that would be a LOT of work, and I'm unsure of just how much of an advantage it would give me.

Option #2: Perhaps I should move SC to a different website. I haven't done too much research into this yet...I did look at ArtFire, and it seemed just as saturated with jewelry artists as Etsy is now. There were even numbers to back it up. I just don't know that much about selling online...we did a dry-run on Ebay a while back and had no luck, either. But it seems like there must be a website out there where I could sell my jewelry and feel more like an individual. As it is, on Etsy, I don't just feel like a little fish in a big pond, I feel like an amoeba in the Atlantic ocean...

So here's where you guys come in---what do you think??? Do you have any suggestions? Websites to check out?? Tips? Advice? I've just started thinking about this in the last fews days, so any feed back would be MUCH appreciated. :)

In other news...

Am I just a gooftard or can blogger be a bit of a pest when it comes to adding pictures and graphics and whatnot to your blog? What's with the always-posting-at-the-top-of-the-blog-no-matter-where-your-cursor-is thing? And what's with the add-extra-spaces-between-all-your-paragraphs-when-you-add-a-photo thing?? Am I doing something wrong? I'm getting used to it, now, but it still aggravates me sometimes.

Another blogger observation---is it just me, or are the nonsense words they ask you to type in to verify comments absolutely frickin' hilarious?? I've taken to writing some of my favorites down, and trying to pronounce them outloud. Bertske. Fisharp. Ransors. Kesse. LOL...Bertske has become a word I replace with my not-so-nice words when I'm censoring myself at work.

There you go. Randomness. :)

Ok so, let me know what you think, bloggers!! The time for change...if I decide to make it....is NOW!!!

Until next time,

Wowie Zowie!!!

2009-01-13T11:06:00.005-05:00

I just can't believe it!!! I just got a wonderful surprise from my new friend Cher at Pancakes to Pearls!! She's given Simply Charming in S.C. another TWO blog awards!!! Holy moly, am I ever feelin' the love! My head is spinnin'!! I just featured several wonderful blogs, both here and at my other blogger site, The (gradually) Shrinking Violet on yesterday, so today, I'm only going to feature two...one for each award!!!

The first award, the Butterfly Award, goes to the coolest blog I know!! Indie Sista's!! I just stumbled upon their blog earlier this morning, while dropping my entrecards, and I think their blog (and their Etsy shop!) is most definitely worth checking out!!

The second award is all about spreading the "Blog Love!" This one was tough, because you all deserve a LOT of blog love, but I'm giving this award to Kat at Candles, Crafts and Whatnot! Not only did she absolutely make my day yesterday with the lovely awards she left for me, but her blog is fun, colorful, and always delightful to read!

So congrats to those two blogs---and happy blogging to everyone else!!

Big hugs from

OH and PS: Stay tuned for some news from Simply Charming in SC, coming soon!!! I've got the crafting part of my secret project all finished...now all I have to do is have some decent weather for photographs!!! Hooray!!!

Awards Galore!!

2009-01-12T11:40:00.006-05:00

I checked my blogs this morning, and I feel so blessed and proud to announce that I've been given not one, but TWO awards from Kat at Candles, Crafts and Whatnot. Thanks Kat! If you've never read her blog, you should really check it out!! She makes fantastic jewelry...and these recent additions to her Artfire site happen to be favorites of mine:

Who doesn't want Edward Cullen earrings???? So hot! At any rate, I'd like to share these wonderful awards with you! The first one is this lovely little beauty, the "FAB" award. YAY! I don't know very many people who don't love being referred to as fabulous, me included!!

Aw...cute lil' FiFi! This award doesn't just say "fabulous," it makes me feel "fabulous!" And I'd love to share that feeling with a few of the most fabulous blogs I know! So here are a few I'd like to offer this award to:

The Beaded Tail : This blog is a must-see for any pet lovers. Not only are there wonderful commentaries from her pets' perspectives, but she makes lovely kitty and puppy jewelry, too!
Crystal Raen's Recycled Craft Things : Not only is Crystal a very talented artist, but her blog is colorful, informative, and real. Nothing's more fabulous than that!!
Lovely Purses : I think I give Duni at Lovely Purses an award everytime I get one LOL...but I can't help it!! Her blog is FABULOUS!!

The next award is a unique one I've never seen before. Thanks again to Kat for bringing it into my world! It's called the "Van Gogh Ear Award," and props go to Roger DMan from Idaho Potato for creating this unique award!

In a nutshell, Roger created this award to give to blogs he feels are making a difference in the blogosphere. He said, "We are all artists in are own way, be it art, photography, writing, philosophy, comedy, or blogging, and we all go a little crazy sometimes. But if you ever feel so crazy to cut off your ear and give it to a prostitute, "Seek Help"! Always remember you're unique. Just like everyone else." I've chosen a couple of bloggers who I think really definie what it means to be an "artist," and who I think will appreciate this odd, yet wonderful, award.

Lenox Knits : I just love this blog. I've been crocheting since college, and believe me, NONE of the afghans or scarves I've ever created have been half as gorgeous as what you'll find here. Not only are her yarn projects absolutely works of art, but her blog is informative and always interesting!
Mu-Yin Jewelry : I'm a self-described jewelry hoarder. I love all things sparkly and delightful, especially when they're made to be as unique and lovely as the creations you'll find on this blog. Her etsy shop is at the top of my "desperately want, no---NEED!" list!! Artistry at it's finest.
Thousand Word Balance : Melissa is a painter, a poet, a photographer....I think this blog is the perfect recipient for this award! Go check her out!!!

To the recipients I chose: enjoy your awards!!! Share them with as many folks as you'd like!! And have a fabulous, creative day! Till next time,

Holiday Hangover

2009-01-05T12:48:00.005-05:00

Holy cow, it feels like it's been forever since I last posted here, and even longer since I found some free time to make jewelry!! I seem to have one of those holiday hangovers....not the kind that leaves you dehydrated and headachy, but the kind that leaves you blue and wistful.

I'm really excited about making some changes to my etsy shop in the next few weeks, though. I found myself wandering through Michael's for the first time in about 3 weeks yesterday, and I picked up a few beautiful things to start my next project:

It's not that I'm bored with jewelry making--on the contrary, I'm loving it more now that I did when I first got started. But I feel like the jewelry market on Etsy is over-saturated, which is lending to NO SALES for Simply Charming in SC. So I'm working on diversifying my shop. I really want to be able to offer something unique for those who happen upon my etsy site! I've got a few little lose ends to tie up, some pictures to take, and I'll hopefully have them listed by the end of the week. Fingers crossed that the weather holds out and that I'll be able to take advantage of the South Carolina sunshine to take some pictures!!

In the meantime, I've been preoccupied with a lot of other stuff going on in my life--major life changes going on in the Chamberlain household. You'll know what I'm speaking about if you read my other blog, The (gradually) Shrinking Violet. But I'm not giving up on my crafty side, yet!!

So, stay tuned for big news coming up for Simply Charming in SC...I hope to have it posted and public, too! Until then, happy crafting, friends!

Fuzzy Things I LOVE!

2008-12-30T11:25:00.006-05:00

I've been perusing Etsy today, and have realized that, despite the warm weather in South Carolina, I'm still drawn to all things plushy, fuzzy, and adorable! Here are just a few little things I've recently added to my favorites list!

"Boy Wizard" Doll, from GirlCalledRic:

I just think this little guy is ADORABLE! I'm a huge fan of Har...ahem....Boy Wizards, and I would LOVE to have this little plushie to place upon my book shelf! Check out her ETSY SITE for even more adorable plushies, ranging from Star Trek characters, to even MORE wizards!!!

Unhappy Little Poop Bunny, from spidercamp:

I can TOTALLY appreciate the humor behind this little guy. I say "Poop" on a regular basis, particularly when I'm at work when I have to self-censor. And if you think he's cute, check out her ETSY SITE for even more adorable little bunnies, some who have sailor mouths! TOO cute!!

Love Those Blue Mary Jane Slippers, from Broken Hallelujah:

Don't you just want to snuggle your little tootsies right into these slippers?? Not only do they look warm and cozy, but the little white hearts on the toes make these too sweet to pass up! Check out her ETSY SITE for even more snuggly goodies!

Purple Heart Pocket Feltie, from amyjoshandmade

Oh...my...goodness. What else can I say??? This adorable little purple kitty cat just makes me happy. For those who've read my blog before, you know I have 4 cats of my own, so anytime I find something kitty related, I'm hooked. Check out their ETSY SITE for the most adorable little felt stuffies!!!

I hope you've enjoyed digging through my Favorite's treasure chest...it's full of goodies I love to share! Best wishes to you and all your families in the New Year, from,

Another Christmas for the Records

2008-12-27T09:34:00.003-05:00

Hello fellow bloggers! I hope you all had a wonderful holiday!! Most of ours was spent on the road, travelling to NC to share Christmas with my brother, his girlfriend, and my parents. While we didn't get to spend as much time with them as we would have liked, it was still a wonderful day! :)

A lot of the gifts I made, including the custom order I told you about, went over smashingly. I got several phone calls thanking me for my beautiful work, and that ALWAYS makes an artist feel great! I'm hoping to receive some pictures, soon, to share with you so you can see happy customers wearing Simply Charming jewelry!!

In the next few weeks I'm hoping to add some new items to my etsy shop, including a new idea I've been working on. I've got a few "prototypes" finished, but I'm still working out a few design flaws before I start selling them. Here's a little hint: It's like jewelry for your house! :)

I'll be keeping this entry short and sweet for today, as I've got a house to clean and a grocery list to make. And so I'll just leave you with a silly photo. Laugh, it's ok, I did!

Hugs from,

The (Gradually) Shrinking Violet

2008-12-24T13:37:00.004-05:00

Hello fellow bloggers!!! I have a little announcement to make.

I created Simply Charming in SC to help promote my etsy shop, and have gotten so addicted to blogging that I've decided to start another one!

The (Gradually) Shrinking Violet is going to be a frank blog about my struggle with weight loss. There will be all sorts of fun stuff there...candid insights, recipes that work, successes, failures, and milestones. All in one blog! I'm hoping that, by creating this new blog, I'll not only make new blogger friends, but will be able to separate a major part of my personal life from my etsy shop. I'd like to keep THIS blog strictly about my artsy side.

However, if you want to get to know me in a totally different way, check out my new blog!!

Happy Christmas Eve to all my friends, and until next time, I'll always be,

To All My Blogger Friends

2008-12-24T09:33:00.006-05:00

May your holiday be filled with laughter and cheer! Sincerely from,

Abby from S.C.

Cookie Palooza 2008

2008-12-22T15:21:00.007-05:00

Another year, another Christmas, and another Cookie Palooza!! I finished my Christmas baking in ONE day. That's right....ONE! The menu this year: Chocolate and Peanut Butter Buckeyes, Christmas Cutouts with Lemon Icing, White Chocolate and Cranberry Drop Cookies, and Butter and Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies.

As Rachel Ray would say....YUM-O!

My Christmas Cutouts turned out really great this year--they're colorful and festive, and just a little bit silly...

I may be artistic when it comes to beads, gemstones and wire, but when it comes to drawing....with a pencil or with lemon icing....I'm just not that great. LOL...but I think when they're silly like this, people get a kick out of them a little more than if they were perfect and frou frou. Every year I pick one cookie out of the batch that is my absolutely favorite...some years it's the Santa who's beard turned out just right, or a snowman who's nose is the perfect carrot shape. This year, my Favorite Cookie Award goes to...

Santa's Little Helper!! LOL...this particular cookie cutter is meant to be Santa's face, but I already had a ton like it, so I decided to make an elf. His nose is...well...fantastic, in my opinion, and his lopsided grin makes him loveable!

As usual, for me, the star of the show is the jam thumbprints. They are absolutely my FAVORITE cookie, they're just about impossible to mess up, and they always look fantastic:

And honestly, they taste even better. I look forward to these every year! They're a little time consuming, but so worth the effort!! And so, as my Christmas gift to my blog readers, I'm giving you my favorite cookie recipe, all wrapped up with a bow!

Butter and Jam Thumbprints:
1 ¾ cups all purpose flour
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp fine salt
¾ cups unsalted butter (1 ½ sticks) softened
2/3 cup sugar, plus more for rolling
1 large egg
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/3 cup raspberry, cherry or strawberry jam

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Whisk the flour, baking powder and salt together in a bowl.
In another bowl, whip the butter and sugar until fluffy, about 5 minutes. Beat in the egg and vanilla until just combined. Slowly beat in dry ingredients in two additions, mixing just until incorporated.

Scoop the dough into 1-inch balls with a cookie scoop and roll in sugar. Place about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Press a thumbprint into the center of each ball, about ½ inch deep. Fill each indentation with about ¾ tsp of jam.

Bake cookies until the edges are golden, about 15 minutes. Cool cookies on baking sheets. Serve.

I'm totally going to copy Paula Deen right now and sign off by saying...ahem...with love, from my Cookie Palooza to yours, from,

My Day's Looking Up!!!

2008-12-20T10:53:00.009-05:00

Suffice it to say that last night was a crummy night. Despite all our well-laid plans, hubby found out that he has to work a double on Christmas Eve, and another the day after Christmas....which leaves our out-of-town Christmas plans in ruins. I've been really upset about it since I found our around 6 last evening, and the Christmas spirit, which usually runs thick in these veins, has been running thin. I didn't even start my Christmas baking last night, which was in the works, because I was so bummed out.

But this morning, I awoke to some sweet, wonderful, AMAZING news that not ONE blogosphere friend, but TWO, have awarded Simply Charming in SC on blogspot some fantastic awards!!! It's the first time I've ever been honored in such a way, and so I'm thrilled to tell you a little about each!!

The first award received was given by Robin (TQMNurse) from Robin's Nest--Scrap Out Loud. I've been a follower of her blog since very early on in my "blog" career (as my husband calls it) and am so touched that she would think to nominate me for the "Lovely Blog" award!!!

I have to give another shout out to The Cutest Blog on the Block for the awesome blog template that made my blog look so FANTASTIC!! Now all I have to worry about is keeping the content up-to-date, checking my spelling, and continuing to entertain the masses with my wit and intelligence (hahaha).

Having never participated in an "Award Ceremony," I'd like to offer the rules for participating. Now that I have received the award, it falls to my hands to select seven blogs I adore, and nominate THEM for the honor. So, for those of you lucky seven, here are the rules as were published on Robin's blog:

The Rules :
1. Add the logo to your blog.
2. Link to the person from whom you received this award
3. Nominate 7 or more blogs
4. Leave a message on their blog, letting them know they are "One Lovely Blog"!

And so, without further ado....drum roll please....here are MY 7 picks for the "One Lovely Blog" award!!!

1. Tizzalicious Crafts & Cuteness
2. My Art & The Mom in Me
3. Lovely Purses
4. CurlyFrySC
5. Lula Boutique
6. Crystal Raen's Recycled Craft Things
7. Cen's Loft

You'll notice a majority of them are South Carolina artisans from the SC Etsy Street Team...and those that are not are still etsians! I can't help it...I read what I love! :) So congratulations to you 7 ladies...I'm so happy to be able to nominate you for this award! It gives me a great feeling to tell the world (or at least my readers) how much I enjoy your blogs!

Now onto award number 2, ever so graciously given by my new blog friend, Kat, at Candles, Crafts & Whatnot. This one is the "Blog Love" award. And as you know from previous posts, I'm all about sending some blog love!!! There weren't any rules with this blog, so I'm going to name a few below for you to check out...I'm spreadin' the love!!!

1. Jenn Cooks
2. Lenox Knits
3. SC Etsy Street Team
4. Meeting Street Design
5. RocknRoll McAshley

So I'd just like to say a final thank you to Robin and Kat for helping me smile today---you'll never know how much I needed it!!! And to all those featured award winners---keep doing what you're doing!!!

Until next time, love from,

Friday Follies

2008-12-19T09:31:00.004-05:00

Today started off as any other normal day might...alarm clock sounded, shower followed...I am having a good hair day, which is a bonus. But when I got the golfcart out to check the grounds at work, I noticed something...well, something I'VE never seen before...

A white squirrel??!?? In SOUTH CAROLINA?? He was SO adorable! I wish I'd had my camera with me, but I didn't, so I found this picture online so you could see how cute he is. "He" will be referred to as "Mr. Nutz" from now on in this post.

So I park my golfcart along the fence line to watch Mr. Nutz go about his daily business of rooting for seeds. At first, all I can see is his tail...and I honestly believe there was a ferret or something out and about. Because, really, who's ever seen a white squirrel? Then, as I step out of the golfcart to try and sneak a closer peek, his head pops up. Oh my gosh and golly! It's a squirrell!! Mr. Nutz had something in his paws that he was munching on--I was too far away to see what it was, particularly since I didn't have my glasses on--and he stood there for a moment, munching away, and studying me with dark eyes. At that moment I found myself wishing for my camera, my husband, and a sack full of peanuts.

I stepped forward so I could see him better, and "SNAP"....I stepped on a pine cone. Well, Mr. Nutz wasn't having any of that. He stuffed his prize in his mouth and took off up the nearest pine tree.

What a way to start the day!

In other news...my father-in-law, Walt, who lives in the desert of Nevada, called yesterday with some interesting news. His part of the country usually looks like this:

But yesterday....his backyard looked like this:

That's right....SNOW. Not just a flurry. Not even just an inch. SIX INCHES of snow...in the desert. Now don't get me wrong, it's WONDERFUL for him! I can only imagine how excited the kids in Nevada are right now. I mean, they NEVER get a snow day. And just in time for Christmas!! But I have to be honest here and say that yeah, I am a little bit jealous!! I mean, SNOW? In the DESERT??? I WANT SOME!!!!!!!! Here we are, in South Carolina, and it's seventy-freakin-five degrees outside. I've been wearing short sleeves and rainbows ALL WEEK!! How is someone supposed to get into the Christmas spirit with that kind of weather???

By baking Christmas cookies, I suppose! (Great segway, right?? LOL) And that's what I'll be doing all weekend. So stay tuned for pics of my antics in the kitchen! Until then, stay on the lookout for adorable little woodland creatures in your neck of the woods!

Sincerely,

Blogs That Work (For Me)

2008-12-16T16:18:00.005-05:00

I'm fairly new to this whole "blog" world. I got started on myspace about 3 years ago, just blogging about my everyday life, my weight loss journey, my view on politics and the world. It wasn't until I started my etsy shop that I realized just how important a working blog really is, especially in this online business world.

About a month ago, I joined Entrecard, which for those who might not know, is a totally free, efficient way of advertising your OWN blog, right here on blogger. I've found it to be an eye-opening experience! Not only do I find that I actually have traffic on MY blog, but I've learned a lot about blogging itself.

Of course, every blog author or reader has a particular style they appreciate...some people's blogs are very simple and straight-forward, others are colorful and chaotic. Since I started "dropping" my card with other bloggers, I've come to appreciate quite a few blogs that appeal to my sense of what great blogs look like.

So I've decided to feature a few blogs, once a week, that I love--whether they're well written, fun to look at, or have great content. I hope you'll enjoy these selections I've chosen for you to enjoy!!! (PS: All the photos are clickable buttons---they take you straight there! Neato, spiffy!)

Cen's Loft is a crafting blog that focuses mostly on scrapbooking. I love this blog because it's colorful without being too overwhelming, and the layout is perfectly pleasing to the eye!

Tizzaliscious is a fellow etsy artist, and what I LOVE about her blog is that, as soon as it pops up on my screen, I'm immediately happy. Her layout is so simple, but the photos she uploads to her blog just makes me want to stay. Lots of pinks and reds...it's just pleasing to the eye. Which is why I love her Etsy shop as well!

Jen Cooks is a blog must-see for any foodie. There are SO many over-stuffed, pretentious food/cooking blogs in the world, and my favorite thing about Jen's site is that she actually cooks the way I would at home!! Her photos are always fantastic, and it makes me feel like I'm right in her kitchen with her. Plus, her blog is extremely well-written, and her goofy sense of humor really appeals to me. This is an example of a blog that I will return to over and over again, just to join in some of Jen's kitchen antics! (PS: That's not her logo, just a free gif I found online!)

Love cats? Try out Chick & Pumuckl. This blog author is SO creative...the blog is written from the kitties' point of view! SO GREAT!! My husband and I have entire conversations with our cats, so reading this blog makes me feel a little less crazy, as I'm now aware of the fact that there are other pet owners who talk for their animals out there, too. (Again, not her logo, but a picture of my own, adorable Scooter.)

Of course, I must also promote the SC Etsy street team blog here, as well, as it is one of the blogs I visit on a regular basis. For any etsy artist looking for a finger-tip guide to shopping South Carolina on Etsy, this blog is a wealth of information. You'll find a link to every SC Team Member's shop here, as well as several blogs! You just can't beat that in my little blog world!

So there you have it! Just a handful of blogs that I love to read. I hope you'll enjoy them as much as I do, and stay tuned for more later!

Until then, happy crafting, from,

Christmas...a Little Early

2008-12-15T19:48:00.009-05:00

For those who read my blog on a regular basis, you may remember me talking about finding the "perfect" Christmas gift for my hubby...one that would outgift the present he was touting as the "super" gift he'd planned for me. Well...here's the story.

In a flash of genius, I realized what that perfect gift would be...a bass guitar amp. You see, before hubby and I got together, he was an avid self-taught bassist. (Is that a word?) When we first started dating, if I unexpectedly stopped by or called, he was playing his bass. There were even times when he WAS expecting me that I would find him plugged in and jamming to one of his favorite 311 tunes. His bass guitar was a part of his past, and when we got together, I was adamant about him continuing to play. I'd fallen in love with him, bass and all, and it was something he was passionate about. So when I graduated from college and we made the move to S.C., the bass came along, too.

It only took about 3 weeks in S.C. for me to realize that getting a job in the newspaper business was going to be harder than I'd originally anticipated. And Brian, who works in the restaurant industry, was astounded to find out that he couldn't find a job, either (in the restaurant capital of the south???!) And so, with chagrin, we started pawning stuff to pay the rent. One of our tvs went first....then a VCR....then a stereo....before too long, we were digging in couch cushions and under the floor mats of our car just to find change to buy groceries with. Brian kept hinting at selling the bass, but I put my foot down. "No," I said. "You cannot sell your bass. It will absolutely break my heart."

One morning Brian gently shook me awake. "Abby," he said. "Time to get up...we need to go grocery shopping." And he had $200 in his hand. He'd gotten up in the wee hours, packed up his bass guitar, and gone down to the local pawn shop. I was devastated. I cried for HOURS.

Eventually, Brian got his job at Queen Anne's Revenge, where he still works, and I took up a management position at a local K-B Toy Store. We started making ends meet...and several years later, here we are.

About a year and a half ago, I mentioned to Brian that he should consider picking up the bass again. We went to our local guitar shop, did some shopping, and came home the proud owners of a brand new bass. Brian was SO excited, and so was I! We took it out of its case, plugged it into his old amp, left over from college, and held our breath with anticipation....

And heard static.

Brian's old amp was dead.

Now you see the reason for my rehashing this old story. :)

VIOLA----the perfect Christmas gift!! I was JAZZED about the idea, and went right back to the same shop we bought his bass from. SO proud of myself, I drove my perfect gift home. It took me an entire roll of wrapping paper to cover the huge box. I planted it under the tree, grinning like the Grinch, and waited patiently for my husband to come home.

He walked in the door, looked at the box, got a funny look on his face, and said, "I think I know what it is."

SERIOUSLY???

That's right, ladies. He guessed my gift. And ruined Christmas.

LOL...in all honesty, he felt HORRIBLE for blurting it out...SOOOoooo...rather than lug the huge thing all the way to NC for him to open Christmas morning, I went ahead and let him unwrap it last night....

Hmmm....what could this be, I wonder?

A bass amp, perhaps??

In all fairness, he did let me open my "consolation prize" gift...you know...for ruining Christmas...

Good job, honey! A new Ipod, in my favorite shade of pink, to help me get back on the weight loss band wagon!!! :)

The moral of the story is....if you buy your husband the perfect gift for Christmas...don't wrap it and put it under the tree 2 weeks early. Instead, stash it in the storage unit, wrap up a brick with his name on it, and put IT under the tree!!!

Just a little valuable advice, from yours truly,

HTML Heaven!!!!!

2008-12-14T15:17:00.005-05:00

Obviously, the first thing you will notice is that my blog looks MUCH DIFFERENT from how it looked last night!.....

...I FINALLY found a template I can live with! Not only that, but it's pretty much exactly what I was looking for! Simple, charming, right color scheme...there are even daisies, which are my favorite flower! (In fact, they were included in my wedding bouquet, AND they topped my wedding cake...see:)

Hooray! But I CANNOT take credit for having found this template. In fact, I owe a great big THANKS and shout out to Duni from Lovely Purses!! Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU! She ever so delightfully pointed me out to The Cutest Blog on the Block, where there are TONS of backgrounds to choose from. I'm thrilled with what I have, so thanks to Duni for coming to my rescue! My husband thanks you, too...he would hate to have a bald wife, and now that I have conquered the HTML beast (for now) I can stop pulling out my hair!!!

Sincerely,

HTML from Hell

2008-12-13T22:49:00.004-05:00

Let me preface this blog by saying that I've had a long, frustrating day, so this is probably going to sound a bit....testy....

I've never taken any classes in HTML, but I take pride in having taught myself enough basic code to be able to take care of "business." I spent ALL day working on this blog, trying to create my own template. ALL DAY. I can't even tell you how overwhelming it all is to someone who's new to blogger, and new to templates in general. I mean, I know enough code to create small little tables and graphs and things like that, but for some reason, the templates provided by blogger to get started don't seem to have the strands of code I was looking for...

And don't even get me STARTED on the whole banner thing. Holy freakin' cow. I don't know about you, but when something promises to hide the blog name and description with the banner I created on photoshop, I sort of expect it to do just that.

I just want a sweet, simple blog. Nothing flashy, nothing crazy, but something that says "Simply Charming." I want it to reflect my personality, and what I feel like my etsy shop stands for, and I just don't think any of the standard templates say that. I've scoured the internet for hours looking for a template that works for me, and I just can't find anything. They're all too....something. Teeny-bopperish. Loud. Complicated. I'm a simple girl. Hence the name "Simply Charming." I just want a basic 2-column template, with a little southern charm thrown in. I've got backgrounds picked out and banners made, but I just can't figure out how to put tab A into slot B.

And with my entire day WASTED on the whole template thing, I had a fairly large custom order for Christmas gifts for my cousin-in-law looming over my head!! Finally, at about 6 pm, I threw in the blogger towel and got to work on what I'm really good at----jewelry design.

FINALLY!

Per Danielle's request, I worked up some special gifts for some special loved ones, all of which I'm particularly proud of. As they are gifts for potential readers (I don't think any of them know about this blog in particular, but, ya know, just in case) I won't be putting up any pictures of my work just yet. But I will end this blog with what I feel is a fair representation of me, now that my pointless day of HTML Hell is over....

Finding Inspiration

2008-12-11T17:48:00.007-05:00

Today has been a dreary day. It's been raining on an off here since yesterday, the sky has been cloudy and grey, and the weather has not been pretty. I was doing my thing at work, finishing up the day, and as I was leaving I happened to glance up at the sky. And that's when I saw it---the biggest, most beautiful rainbow I've ever seen in my life! We've all seen the little rainbows that pop up during summer showers, but this particular rainbow....well, it was SO big, I couldn't get it all into one shot, no matter how far away I walked!! I stretched all the way across the sky, from one side of our 2 acre facility to the other. I was absolutely in awe. And trust me, the pictures just don't do it justice.

Naturally, I ran inside to grab my camera. I didn't know how long the rainbow had been in the sky, and I didn't want to risk it going away before I had the chance to take a few pictures. I snapped two or three, and as I looked down to adjust the settings on my camera, to try and get a better picture, the lighting outside changed. Everything went.....yellow. Not slightly so, but YELLOW. Even the white buildings looked yellow. And I knew I had missed my shot. I did manage to get these 2 that are ok, but I wanted SO much to share the beauty of this rainbow with you!! The colors were just so vibrant! I immediately felt inspired!!

Speaking of inspiration, I got most of my Christmas shopping done yesterday! I took time out to visit my favorite bead store in the area, The Beaded Venus, and found some inspiration there as well...Check out all my goodies!!!

The teal and cloudy chalcedony, the olive green crystals, and the red and green glass beads are all for projects for my shop. The pretty silver disks are for a Christmas gift for my brother's girlfriend, Caitlin. And the large crystals are for a TOP SECRET project for my etsy shop!! I'm planning a BIG surprise for the new year, and I'm hoping it will be unique enough, special enough, COOL enough to put my shop on the map. So...I guess what today's post is all about is inspiration!! Find it wherever you can, and some places you don't think it'll be. Like work. On a rainy, dreary day.

Sincerely,

Christmas is Taking Over

2008-12-07T15:39:00.010-05:00

I'm having a really hard time finding any free time to devote to creating jewelry. Which is odd, considering how much time I spend blogging and promoting...but any way...what with Christmas shopping and wrapping presents and planning Cookie Palooza 2008, Simply Charming has, unseemingly, taken a back seat.

I do have some gifts I'm planning on creating in the next week or so, but I feel like my etsy shop is suffering because of my busyness. I have SO many big plans, but haven't had the chance (or the money) to bring them into fruition just yet.

As it is, right now, my main focus is not being out-gifted by my husband this year. This will be our 7th Christmas together, and the first one that we've actively tried to keep each other's gifts a secret. In years previous, we either bought something collectively, for the greater good, or we couldn't keep the secret long enough, and "Christmas" was over by mid-month. This year, we're really trying to keep the presents we'll be exchanging "under wraps" (ha ha ha...ok, bad pun, sorry) so that we can surprise one another Christmas morning. Naturally, it was my idea...

...and naturally, my husband is flaunting his "brilliant plan" in my face, which makes me nervous. I'm the person who gives the great gifts---be prepared to cry, people, because it's my ultimate goal when I choose a gift for someone. I want it to be so special, that YOU cry. :) I'm evil.

At any rate, Brian seems to think he's picked the PERFECT gift for me, and I can't seem to think of anything to get for him. I don't think he'd benefit much from a pair of Simply Charming earrings.

So for now, I'll finish my Christmas shopping, bake my Christmas cookies, and dream wistfully of the day when I'll be able to sit down and make jewelry again. Hopefully, it'll come soon!

My Own Personal Dancing Elves (Featuring Dad, Adam, Walt, Brian and Timm)

2008-12-05T10:51:00.001-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year (Ding, Dong, Ding, Dong)

2008-12-02T10:41:00.010-05:00

The turkey's all gone, the pumpkin pies are almost eaten, and the family's all gone back to work. But as of yesterday, it is officially my FAVORITE time of year! There's just something so special about Christmas, I'm not sure I can explain it. But I still get that butterfly feeling in my stomach when I find the perfect gift for someone. I still cry everytime I hear Silent Night (especially if it's Josh Groban). I still get giddy with excitement as I unwrap my Christmas ornaments to put on the tree. I think the thing that makes Christmas so special is that, for one month out of the year, I feel somewhat like a kid again. Isn't that what Christmas should be about?

I wanted to share with you my beautiful decorations this year...so here they are! Brian and I always have a "Blue" Christmas. :)

As you can see, our tree is so far "sans" topper. The topper we've had for almost 4 years finally bit the dirt this year. Last year, we had to stick wooden skewers into it to make it stand up---and yet, it still had an impish tilt to it, despite our genius "ghetto rigging." LOL....we've been looking for the perfect topper to add to our tree this year, but we're having the hardest time finding one that isn't gold! I'd love to have a silver star or snowflake, and what would be even MORE perfect is if I could find one that I could put all-blue bulbs into, for that extra "Blue Christmas" vibe. How cool would that be???

Here's an up close and personal look at some of our ornaments. For those cat owners out there, you will appreciate the fact that all of our ornaments are kitty proof...AKA NOT glass! We learned that lesson the hard way with our first Christmas tree. By the time we took it down in January, we had approximately 4 ornaments left that weren't shattered into a gazillion pieces. Also pictured at the right is one of my all-time favorite ornaments---a sand dollar with a gardenia on it that reads "Charleston, SC." It was a Christmas gift from Becca, my best pal in high school.

Our boys were very interested in the process this year---this will be Scooter's first Christmas as a Chamberlain, and he was intrigued by the prospect of having new furniture to climb on.

Pip, however, remembers the tree, and the water gun, from years past, and quietly took his place underneath the tree....as NEAR as possible, without getting into too much trouble.

And finally, it's stocking time---every Chamberlain needs a place to hang their sock!

Mommy and Daddy get BIG socks, and....

Each boy gets a little sock!

I look forward to getting up every morning and turning on the Christmas tree lights. It's so easy to get wrapped up in the hustle and bustle of holiday parties, gift shopping, and general hullabaloo. I try to take a moment every single day to just lay in the floor, gaze up into the boughs of the tree, and enjoy the blue twinkly lights....and BREATHE.

Wordless Wednesday....Sort of

2008-11-25T10:14:00.002-05:00

I know, I know....it's only Tuesday. But the holiday is upon us, therefore I must post early since I'm going out of town tonight!! And so, let me preface this Not-So-Wordless Wednesday post by saying two things:

1) Have a wonderful, happy, family-filled Thanksgiving!

and 2) I love Photoshop.

Learning to Network

2008-11-21T11:06:00.007-05:00

It never occured to me, when I decided to open an etsy shop, that I would need so many skillsets to be successful. So far, in the past 2 months, I've taught myself how to use photoshop, I've pretty much gone to "internet" school to learn how to take semi-professional photography, I've started up two new blogs, and now I'm learning to advertise and promote my shop in as many ways as possible.

Not that I'm whining about it---it's actually a blast. I've learned a lot about myself in this process, and reaffirmed things I already knew. (i.e. I enjoy teaching myself how to do things no one else I know can do; I'm stubborn and refuse to give up when something challenging presents itself.)

The one thing I will indulge and allow myself to whine about is the lack of traffic on my etsy site. I have recently been putting more work into promoting my site, and advertising, than I have actually making jewelry. Which is frustrating, because that's the whole REASON I started the site to begin with! It seems that etsy has gotten so saturated with sellers that buyers are too overwhelmed from the get go to actually take the time to shop. PARTICULARLY in the jewelry business. Is it weird that I've never really known anyone who makes their own handcrafted jewelry, and yet, there seems to be a trillion of us out there, most of them selling on etsy???

I refuse to give up. However, I will be taking more time to CREATE, rather than PROMOTE, in the near future. I have a few tricks up my sleeve that I'm going to get started on in the next 2 weeks, once my Thanksgiving trip is out of the way, that will hopefully create a unique aspect to my shop that will draw in some potential customers. If I can't sell jewelry, I'll try something else. My husband, the ever crafty one, is helping me develop something new for my shop----so stay tuned for that!!! I hope to have two or three up by the end of next week---and you can bet your bippy that I'll be talking about them loudly and proudly!!!!

I also took some advice from fellow etsian and TeamSC leader, Ashley, and added a widget to my blog called "Entrecard." It's basically free advertising, and if you don't have it, check it out at http://entrecard.com/. Seriously...it may take forever to load, because it's that popular, but it's based on a credit system, and the more you use it, the more credits you receive, which goes to purchase you free advertising on other people's blogs. GREAT concept! Check it out if you don't have it. And if you do, drop your card with me!!!!

And so, until after the holidays, I bid you farewell, and Happy Turkey!

We're a Featured Seller!!!

2008-11-19T18:06:00.004-05:00

I am SO excited to announce that Simply Charming in SC was chosen to be a Featured Seller on TeamSC's blog this week!!!!

The moderator of our forum selects a weekly theme, and my fellow etsians and I participate in the contest by selecting an item from our shop that follows that theme. A few weeks ago, the theme was "Leaves," and I entered my "Garden Party" earrings, shown to the right.

And much to my surprise and delight, they WON! Along with the win came a delightful interview with our fearless leader, Ashley, and a Featured Seller spot on our Team blog! I'd love to invite you over to read it, and share in my joy with me! It's at http://scstreetteam.blogspot.com! I feel like it's a major milestone for Simply Charming to be honored in this way!!! Hopefully it will promote some sales!

But I won't harp on that, rather, I'll celebrate this little victory! Hooray!

A Picture Worth a Thousand Words

2008-11-14T09:36:00.003-05:00

Defeating the Photography Beast

2008-11-11T17:38:00.016-05:00

After endless weeks of research, it seems I may have finally figured out how to work my camera. :) I spent a majority of the last two days re-shooting my jewelry, editing and cropping pictures, and uploading them to my etsy shop...

Here's how I did it.

First, I had to find the right set-up. I read TONS of how-to's about creating my own light box. But here's the thing--I didn't want to spend a ton of time trying to rig something that may or may not work. So it was worth it to me to purchase a professional one, seen at the left. It works great--the little lamps create just enough light (when aided with my "craft" lamp) and it gives me a way to shoot my jewelry indoors. Which, in South Carolina, is a WONDERFUL thing. No muggy, sweaty, mosquitoe-y photo shoots. :) Plus...Scooter gets to watch!

Next, I had to figure out how to work my camera. Now keep in mind, I've had my Canon PowerShot A630 for a couple of years now. It took GORGEOUS pictures of some of our most memorable experiences: our Disney World vacation, our trip to Vegas and the Hoover Dam, Christmases and birthdays and everything in between. (And you've seen the pics I've taken of our kitties...beautiful!) But shooting jewelry....teeny, tiny jewelry.....well, that's a whole new beast. There are new settings to explore, the white balance to adjust, not to mention lighting problems so you can capture the detail of the close-up item you're trying to shoot. I spent WEEKS looking through tutorials, reading up on the macro setting on my camera, and STILL wasn't getting anywhere. Finally, a fellow TeamSC member said, "Hey, Abby, why don't you look up your owner's manual online for your specific camera and see what you can find out?"

She deserves a medal.

There it was, a detailed guide teaching me how to use this "macro" setting that I'd been unable to access up to that moment in time. Fantastic!!! Wonderful!!! Hallelujah!!!

Now, I had to figure out how to "float" my jewelry...I didn't want to just shoot it lying flat, especially the earrings...so my genius husband helped me figure out the set up to the left. We bought cheap little styrofoam cones and cloth-covered stem wire (used in creating bouquets). Et Voila! Floating earrings!
At that point, it just became about getting close enough without getting fuzzy, and the macro setting was absolutely CRUCIAL in accomplishing that. The set-up with the wire was working beautifully, especially with the white background---it almost seemed to disappear. With a little help from the photo uploading software on my computer, we end up with the final results...

FINALLY! Pics I can be proud of.

Here's just some proof of how much my photos have improved:

Woo hoo! In celebration of finally "defeating the photography beast," I've slashed the prices in my shop----some items as much as 50%! Here's hoping my weeks of education in the photography field will yield some etsy sales!!!!

Improvement!

2008-11-07T11:22:00.005-05:00

I seem to be making some headway when it comes to photographing my jewelry!! After a frustrating evening of shooting with my new light box kit (and breaking a light 30 minutes after setting up) I was almost ready to throw in the towel! But after a genius suggestion from a fellow TeamSC member, I found the manual for my camera online, and have finally figured out how to adjust the white balance, and how to shoot in the macro setting! It only took me two months!!!

I'm hoping to get some time this weekend to re-shoot all my jewelry and update my etsy shop with new, crisp, bright photographs of my jewelry. I'm really, really hoping that it will improve my sales!! I've been on etsy since early September, and still have only made 2 sales.

So you tell me---can you tell a difference between this photo, taken outside in natural light with no macro or white balance:

And this one, taken with the light box:

I still have some configuration to do, and practice, but I think I'm onto something! This is the first "close up" shot I've gotten of any of my jewelry since I started without manually zooming or cropping in the post-editing. I'm very hopeful!!!!!

A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words

2008-11-04T19:48:00.002-05:00

Need I say more?

Behind the Scenes of Simply Charming

2008-11-03T15:34:00.013-05:00

The whole reason I started this blog was to serve as an advertising tool for my online jewelry business---www.simplycharmingsc.etsy.com. (Yes, that was a shameless plug.) But I thought it would be nice to introduce you to my family---to go "behind the scenes" of Simply Charming! So here we are....The Chamberlain Clan!

This is a picture of my husband, Brian, and me at a Carolina Panther's football game a few weekends ago. We LOVE football, and have been diehard Panthers' fans for quite some time. Brian and I got married on the beach at Isle of Palms, SC, on September 25, 2004. He isn't just my best friend, but he's my partner in crime, too. He has been SO supportive and helpful in getting my little jewelry business off the ground!!! Meet our furbabies:

Dizzy is furbaby #1. And believe me, he stands by that title! As far as he is concerned, he is the ONLY cat in the universe, and all other animals are inferior. He prefers to be adored in a much more dignified manner---he is above all squishing and snuggling. His favorite past time is knocking my book over when I'm trying to read. He embodies the phrase "Mama's Boy."

This is Harry! Though you can't tell in this picture, he doesn't have a tail. He is a Manx, and is the sweetest cat we've ever had. He's very loving, and will sit in your lap and give you kitty kisses all day long. He LOVES roast beef, so don't come to our house with a sandwich from Arby's unless you want a lap full of black cat!!

Pip is baby #3---he's anyone and everyone's cat. He LOVES to eat (if you can't tell from the picture) and despite being our largest cat, has the teeniest little meow. If you've ever seen the cartoon video of the cat trying to wake his owner with a baseball bat, then you have a pretty good impression of how lil Pipper can be when it's dinner time.

Finally, this is my little Scooter. :) He joined our family in April of this year, after we tragically lost our kitten, Eddie. Scoot is hilarious, and he is my right-hand man. You will probably see him on this blog the most often, because he LOVES jumping into frame when I'm trying to shoot pictures of my jewelry! His favorite game is the "Shower Curtain Game." Beware---he will get your feet!

There you have it---my family. Now you know me! (Or a little about me, anyway!) Stay tuned for new pictures on my etsy site in the next few days---I FINALLY got my photography light box in the mail today, and I will be experimenting with it later this evening. Thanks for reading my blog!

My First Blogger Blog

2008-11-01T17:52:00.000-04:00

Hello World! Here I am!

Upon the suggestion of my fellow etsians, I have decided to expand my "blogging" world beyond the confines of the myspace blog I've so desperately clung to for years.

So here's what you need to know about me! My name is Abby, I'm 27 years old and happily married to my college sweetheart, Brian. We are the happy parents to 4 fur babies, our cats: Dizzy, Harry, Pip and Scooter. I am an avid reader and crafter. And with those hobbies came my most recent passion: my etsy shop, Simply Charming in S.C.!

I started creating jewelry earlier this year, when a friend of mine turned me on to etsy.com. I bought some earrings she'd created, and upon inspection, decided I'd like to try my hand at the craft. One afternoon in Michael's, another afternoon in the bookstore, and by day 3, I was hooked!

Now I've started trying to sell my wares on etsy, which for those who may not be familiar, is a site that promotes artistry. All items sold on Etsy are handmade, and it's a great place to shop!

With the holidays looming, I'm trying to get as many eyes on my site as possible, so I decided to create a new blog, on which I'll share with you upcoming Etsy sales, pictures of my jewelry, and blogs that will let you glimpse into the life of a jewelry artist. I hope you'll laugh with me, appreciate my jewelry, and maybe even learn something!