BBEST-Boomers and Beyond Etsy Street Team

Time for browsing winter blues ! by Pam Todd

2012-01-02T07:12:00.001-05:00

Winter is here, although in my part of Indiana, we haven’t seen very cold temperatures yet. We are expecting 28 and 29 degrees for a couple of daytime lows this week, but no snow yet here. Winter often keeps us inside more than usual, a perfect time to browse all the wonderful handmade items created by the Boomers and Beyond Etsy Street Team. Today I did a search for bbest team blue, and here are some of the lovely items I found.

www.fantasycreations1.etsy.com

www.coloursandtextures.etsy.com

www.chris1.etsy.com

www.natureinpastels.etsy.com

www.magdalenejewels.etsy.com

www.laroseanglaisilks.etsy.com

www.glitznglass.etsy.com

www.emhgraphics.etsy.com

www.zudagay.etsy.com

www.paintingsbykateladd.etsy.com

www.ccvalenzo.etsy.com

www.vanfleetstreetdesign.etsy.com

www.fehustoneware.etsy.com

www.bookwraps.etsy.com

www.jnoriginals.etsy.com

www.peregrinesilks.etsy.com

www.thefiligreegarden.etsy.com

www.nonnie60.etsy.com

www.stitchesbyjulie4kids.etsy.com

LiveJournal Tags: jewelry,necklaces,pendants,paintings,flowers,scarves,sweaters,children,blue,earrings,tablerunner,pottery,bowls,hand mirror,bookwraps,aceo cards,brooches,pins,glassware,bbest team,handmade,etsy

Nineteen Days and Counting……………..by Pam Todd

2011-12-06T12:31:00.001-05:00

Tis only 19 days before Christmas,

www.emhgraphics.etsy.com

www.circleinthesand.etsy.com

and through houses of all kinds

www.sixsistersart.etsy.com

No creatures are stirring, not even the cats and dogs

www.bethpeardonprods.etsy.com

www.scottieacres.etsy.com

www.fantasycreatins.etsy.com

www.theslipstitch.etsy.com

The stockings are hung or laid everywhere in hopes that you know who soon will be there

www.jillstreasurechest.etsy.com

When outside the door, oh my, what a clatter

That I leaped from my recliner to see what was the matter

My eyes opened wide at the sight drawing near

What? A sleigh and a bunch of gorgeous reindeer

www.mysticsilks.etsy.com

The little old driver, he surely was quick

I knew who he was – it was St. Nick

www.sixsistersart.etcy.com

What’s happening, dude, I asked with a grin

You’re really early, but come right on in

He put his finger next to his nose and nodding his head right down my chimney he came

Leaving gifts and more gifts – did I see my name?

www.artmixter.etsy.com

www.yankeegirl.etsy.com

Boxes and boxes under the tree

I couldn’t wait to see which ones were for me

www.chris1.etsy.com

He had places to go and more things to do

His reindeer were waiting, and away they all flew

www.bigislandrose.etsy.com

But he left us this message to which we delight

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

www.paintingsbykateladd.etsy.com

To everyone everywhere and for whatever reason you celebrate, may your holidays be filled with joy, peace, and love.

www.thecratorspalette.etsy.com

For special handmade gifts, enter bbest team next to handmade on the Etsy home page. You will find treasures beyond measures for those you know and love.

Technorati Tags: Christmas,holidays,gifts,paintings,jewelry,bbest team,etsy,cats,dogs,deer,reindeer,night,houses,ornaments,art,Santa Claus,stuffed animals

Choose Handmade! by Pam Todd

2011-11-09T00:34:00.001-05:00

I checked out a website where lots and lots of people posted their reasons for why they believe buying handmade items is a good thing. Many had to do with the love and care that goes into creating handmade items. Others had to do with supporting small businesses and local economies. Still other reasons included giving or getting unique gifts, helping the environment through recycling, up cycling, and individual production as opposed to mass production in terms of energy expenditure. Most echoed the theme that when people buy handmade, they are supporting artists in following their passion to create. One I really liked was that the love that goes into creating handmade items spreads positive energy.

You can find a myriad of handmade creations among the members of the Boomers and Beyond Etsy Street Team (BBest team). Just enter bbest team and your favorite color, and see what you can find. I chose orange, and here are some of the wonderful handmade creations found in that search.

www.jnoriginals.etsy.com

www.clingingimages.etsy.com

www.meadowmuffin2010.etsy.com

www.sixsisters.etsy.com

www.fantasycreations1.etsy.com

www.saromasa.etsy.com

www.jstinson.etsy.com

www.paintingsbykateladd.etsy.com

www.turtletreasures.etsy.com

www.zudagay.etsy.com

www.poseypatch.etsy.com

www.vanfleetstreetdesign.etsy.com

Do a search and enjoy the many wonderful handmade creations offered by the Bbest Team.

Technorati Tags: handmade,handmade gifts,jewelry,earrings,necklaces,paintings,aceo paintings,bags,scarves,bath salts,crochet,trivets,art,orange

October – Dogs – Halloween! by Pam Todd

2011-10-10T00:35:00.001-04:00

October has traditionally been a month of a number of recognitions: Fire Prevention Day (in elementary school, we always wrote essays on Fire Prevention – did you?) is one of them. Then there is Oktober Fest with lots of food and festivities. October has also been designated as Adopt a Shelter Dog month. And, of course there is Halloween. Some of the other special days include pharmacists day, clergy appreciation day, cookie month, eat country ham day, pizza day, vegetarian day, popcorn popping day, sarcastic day, and seafood day. Two of these are meaningful to me, one because I am a dog lover, and the other because I enjoyed it so much as a kid! Bet you know which one that is.

I’ve loved every dog we had. The closest we came to adopting a shelter dog was when we stopped by the animal shelter one night, and there was a puppy sitting outside the fenced-in area. We decided that because we found her there when we stopped by that she was meant to be ours, and so we took her home, and made her part of our family. I mean, something could have happened to her had we left her there……she could have wandered off and been run over, an animal could have gotten her, or who knows what might have happened. We just knew she was meant to be ours. But, today, there are thousands of dogs across the country waiting for their forever home. And, they are waiting in shelters for families to come and get them. If you are considering getting a dog, please stop by your local animal shelter and take a look. You may find the perfect dog for you! I found some cute doggy items among the shops of the Bbest team. No real dogs, just cute stuff. Here are some of them.

www.theslipstitch.etsy.com

www.sixsisters.etsy.com

www.scottieacres.etsy.com

www.yarrow1.etsy.com

www.fantastcreations1.etsy.com

www.emhgraphics.etsy.com

www.chris1.etsy.com

www.clingingimages.etsy.com

www.buttondivas.etsy.com

And, no doubt you have guessed that my other favorite topic for October is Halloween. In the olden days (mid 1940s to mid 1950s) trick or treating was one of the highlights of the year. My sister and I and other kids from the neighborhood would walk about six blocks in all four directions and feel safe knocking on the doors of people we knew as well as complete strangers. We got apples, candy, gum, popcorn balls, and sometimes nickels or dimes! We never worried that anyone would do us any harm. Of course, our folks always looked at everything we brought home. But, it was fun, dressing up as ghosts (with sheets from the closet) or as a grandpa or grandma with our grandparents clothes with pillows under them. Sometimes we had store bought masks. We always carved a pumpkin and set it on the front porch. And, we loved it when the kids came to our house, too. Halloween is still a fun celebration for many. And our Bbest team has lots of fun items with a Halloween theme.

www.vanfleetstreetdesign.etsy.com

www.pfdoriginalsartworks.etsy.com

www.magdaleneknits.etsy.com

www.jstinson.etsy.com

www.heronkate.etsy.com

www.glitznglass.etsy.com

www.birose.etsy.com

www.backroomtreasures.etcy.com

www.fireflyglassdesign.etsy.com

www.circleinthesand.etsy.com

www.ccvalenzo.etsy.com

Enjoy October – drink cider – eat doughnuts and popcorn – love your dog if you have one – leave your porch light on for trick or treaters – carve a pumpkin and set it out – and maybe even dress up and go to a Halloween party! Whatever, just have fun!

LiveJournal Tags: dogs,Halloween,shelter dogs,parties,October,special days,bbest team,jewelry,paintings,knitting,window decor,earrings,sketches,photos,glassware,fused glass,rings,booties,headbands,plastic canvas art

An Indian Summer!

2011-09-28T05:01:00.001-04:00

Normal temperatures appear to be topsy turvy everywhere at the moment and the UK is no exception! Starting at a 10 degree hike on temperatures normal for this time of year we are thoroughly enjoying an ‘Indian’ summer.

So, what is this term, Indian summer? Here it is described as period of unseasonably dry, warm and calm weather which follows colder weather in late Autumn.

“The term Indian summer reached England in the 19th century, during the heyday of the British Raj in India. This lead to the mistaken belief that the term referred to the Indian subcontinent. In fact, the Indians in question were the Native Americans, and the term began use there in the late 18th century. The English already had names for the phenomenon - St. Luke’s Summer, St. Martin’s Summer or All-Hallown Summer, but these have now all but disappeared and, like the rest of the world, the term Indian summer has been used in the UK for at least a century.

Why Indian? Well, no one knows but, as is commonplace when no one knows, many people have guessed. Here are a few of the more commonly repeated guesses:

When European settlers first came across the phenomenon in America it became known as the Indian's Summer.
The haziness of the Indian Summer weather was caused by prairie fires deliberately set by Native American tribes.
It was the period when First Nations/Native American peoples harvested their crops.
The phenomenon was more common in what were then North American Indian territories.
It relates to the marine shipping trade in the Indian Ocean (this is highly dubious as it is entirely remote from the early US citations).
It originated from raids on European settlements by Indian war parties, which usually ended in autumn.
In a parallel with other 'Indian' terms it implied a belief in Indian falsity and untrustworthiness and that an Indian summer was an ersatz copy of the real thing.”

“…” quoted from The Phrase Finder http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/indian-summer.html

Anyway, since I am staying with my husband at our bolt hole in Devon we were told about a small cove that would warrant a visit and it is called Blackpool Sands. This is not to be confused with Blackpool in the north of England!

We have been told there are restaurant facilities and the crab salad is to die for! Oh joy, food again!!!!

Some things we might see at the beach!

Sea Spray original watercolour by Yankeegirl

Mousepad – under the sea by Scottieacres

Almost there … an original painting by Heronkate

Aye there matey by VanFleetStreetDesign

Follow the Leader black and white print by BethPeardonProds

and cheekily … Under the Sea Caves by Onawhimsey

Check out further wonderful items from the BBEST team, ENJOY!!!

ENJOY!!!!

Hum, hum, hummingbirds!………..by Pam Todd

2011-09-05T00:39:00.001-04:00

Just peek outside our front door, and hanging on the porch is a hummingbird feeder, and another, and a third one on a shepherd’s crook in the yard. These little birds are amazing! Their wings beat so fast, and they fly from the trees to the feeders and zoom around in the air, trying to keep each other from the nectar. And, my goodness, they can eat a lot. My husband puts out our feeders early in the spring. But, few hummingbirds stop to eat until the flowers start to disappear later in the summer.

Since August, the numbers have been increasing until there may be 15 to 20 hummingbirds merrily drinking their fill every day. Right now, we are making more than a gallon of hummingbird nectar daily, and filling the containers several times.Hummingbirds seem to be attracted to red, and their favorite feeder is the one that hangs by the hanging flower pot filled with red petunias.

According to the website, http://howtoenjoyhummingbirds.com, these little birds like their nectar to be made with one part sugar to four parts of water. If they are sipping from a flower, they will reject the nectar unless it is at least 12% sugar! Now, that’s what one might call being a finicky eater. The birds need this high energy drink because their wings can beat up to 80 times a second. Their wings go in a circular motion, and this allows them to fly backwards and also upside down! Mostly, they are flying right side up at our house, zooming down at each other to be first (or the only one) at the feeder, and zipping right back to the big maple or walnut trees for protection.

These little guys and girls are plentiful near our front porch this month, and we expect to see them the rest of September and maybe into October. We are never sure when to bring the feeders in until we don’t see them anymore. On the website noted above, I learned that hormonal changes in the birds tell them when it is time to head South. The ruby-throated hummingbird, which is the one that breeds east of the Mississippi River, may travel from South America to Canada in a season, migrating over 2000 miles! Many make a non-stop trip across the Gulf of Mexico, as well, a flight of over 500 miles. You can learn many interesting facts about hummingbirds, as well as watch lots of videos (including one of baby hummingbirds being fed by their mother) at the website above.

Right now, we get to enjoy watching them come and eat. They are so accustomed to my husband that they often fly around his head and stay close by even when he is filling the feeders. They are delightful to watch and well worth the sugar it takes to keep them stopping by. And, if you should spill red food coloring on your clothes while making nectar, just zoom a message to me, and I’ll ask my husband to tell you his laundry secrets for getting half a bottle of red coloring out of my favorite blouse!! (www.bagsandmorebypam.etsy.com – Contact me)

Hummingbirds love red, and if they could shop, I’m sure they would be attracted to these red creations from the Boomers and Beyond Etsy Street Team!

www.chris1.etsy.com

www.fantastycreations1.etsy.com

www.magdaleneknits.etsy.com

www.glitznglass.etsy.com

www.sixsisters.etsy.com

www.eversodear.etsy.com

www.thecreatorspalette.etsy.com

www.yankeegirl.etsy.com

www.zudagay.etsy.com

www.stitchesbyjulie.etsy.com

www.nonnie62.etsy.com

www.jstinson.etsy.com

www.vanfleetstreetdesign.etsy.com

www.mysticsilks.etsy.com

www.meredithbead2.etsy.com

www.ccvalenzo.etsy.com

www.blazingneedles.etsy.com

www.buttondivas.etsy.com

www.thefiligreegarden.etsy.com

LiveJournal Tags: trinket box,earrings,necklaces,coasters,paintings,flowers,hummingbirds,nectar,sweaters,knitting,scarves,pendants,slippers,glasses,gifts,birds,bbest team,etsy

Lose a life, gain a life and communication

2011-08-31T04:51:00.001-04:00

An interesting subject line don’t you think?

Lose a life was referring in particular to those poor people who struggle during Hurricane Irene. My thoughts and prayers go out to the loved ones who lost so much and are now having to cope and come to terms with the devastation around their homes. Even though Irene was later called a tropical storm she still managed to create chaos.

Sea Aglow, a scene after the storm?
by
Yankeegirl

Gain a life refers to a blessed addition to our family last week.

After eagerly awaiting his birth my only daughter gave us a miracle called Ernie! I know I am biased and that every parent/grandparent states that their little ones are the best, but, really, he is!! Sorry, had to say that

Baby Sandsniper, perfect picture for babies’ room
by
Sixsisters

Mini Fold Book, memories can be stored here
by
Mister PenQuin

Communication? Now this part of the subject line refers to my new acquisition! A mobile phone, an IPhone to be exact. I fought it for a long time but when you see all your kids with one, well as the saying goes, if you can’t beat them, join them! Now that I have one I wonder how on earth I managed without.

Felted woolen Iphone case, perfect!
by
JNOriginals

Each of the above titles can be followed with the word ‘hope’. ‘Hope’ after the ravages and losses of the storm, ‘hope’ when a new life is born and ‘hope’ that I can get my head around my new mobile!!

So there you have the latest news of events that have an impact on my life.

August 1 – Raspberry Cream Pie Day

2011-08-01T00:12:00.001-04:00

The special days for each month never cease to amaze me! Don’t know who decided what days to assign to what occasions, but it is always fun to find out what may be celebrated each day of a month! And, with the hot weather baking many parts of the world, a chilled, delicious raspberry cream pie might be just what is needed to cool us all down. That is the celebration for August 1 – raspberry cream pie day!

To soothe and cool your palette, you may wish to try the recipe found at: http://www.rachaelraymag.com/Recipes/rachael-ray-magazine-recipe-search/dessert-recipes/chilled-raspberry-cream-pie

Created by Sara Deseran for the May 2007 Every Day with Rachael Ray magazine, this raspberry cream pie takes only fifteen minutes plus the chilling time, and serves six. The ingredients include:

1 cup heavy cream; 1/8 teaspoon almond extract; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 envelope unflavored gelatin; 1/2 cup water; one 10-ounce package frozen raspberries, 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, one 9-inch pie crust, baked and cooled.

Using an electric mixer or whisk, beat the cream and almond extract until peaks form. Set aside.

In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the sugar, gelatin, and 1/2 cup water to a simmer and stir until the sugar and gelatin dissolve. Remove from heat, add the berries and lemon juice, and stir until the mixture begins to thicken.

Fold the whipped cream into the berry mixture and spread into the pie crust. Refrigerate until set, a few hours or overnight. Enjoy!

And now that your palette is cooled and soothed, please your eyes with these raspberry and cream creations from the Boomers and Beyond Etsy Street Team. Enjoy!

www.thefiligreegarden.etsy.com

www.jnoriginals.etsy.com

www.zudagay.etsy.com

www.pickleberrytrifles.etsy.com

www.sassalynne.etsy.com

www.fantasycreations1.etsy.com

www.pixiemarket.etsy.com

www.kimbuktu.etsy.com

www.bytheby.etsy.com

www.jstinson.etsy.com

www.circleinthesand.etsy.com

www.blazingneedles.etsy.com

www.bridaljewelryshop.etsy.com

LiveJournal Tags: business card holder,purse organizer,necklaces,pendants,bracelets,earrings,rings,wine bottle cozie,scarves,hats,yarn,raspberry cream pie,rachael rae,desserts,August holidays,handmade,bbest team,etsy

Trouble and Strife…

2011-07-27T04:02:00.001-04:00

In the UK you can claim to be a real cockney if you were born within the sound of Bow Bells.

“St Mary-le-Bow is the church of the ubiquitous ‘Cockney‘. Indeed to be an authentic cockney you must be born within the sound of ‘Bow Bells.’ The term ‘cockney, was originally applied to a small or misshapen egg, which was sometimes referred to as a cock's egg. The Oxford English Dictionary claims that the first use of the word as a reference to native Londoners was in 1521, when it was used by writer Whitinton. In 1617 John Minsheu wrote in his Ductor in Linguas that the word originated thus. 'A cockney or cockny, applied only to one born within the sound of Bow bell, that is in the City of London, a tearme coming first out of this tale. That a citizen's sonne riding with his father in the country, asked when he heard a horse neigh what the horse did; his father answered "neigh." Riding further he heard a cock crow, and said: "Does the cock neigh too?"' Whatever the origin of the term it was intended as a term of flattery for it was applied contemptuously by rural people to native Londoners who lived by their wits as opposed to by their muscle.”

Following on from that interesting fact Cockney folk used to have a language all of their own which was spoken in rhyme. For instance, trouble and strife meant wife. Apples and pears stood for stairs.

Rhyming slang phrases are derived from taking an expression which rhymes with a word and then using that expression instead of the word. For example the word "look" rhymes with "butcher's hook". In many cases the rhyming word is omitted - so you won't find too many Londoners having a "butcher's hook" at this site, but you might find a few having a "butcher's".

Cockney rhyming slang originated in the East End of London. Some slang expressions have escaped from London and are in popular use throughout the rest of Britain. For example "use your loaf" is an everyday phrase for the us in UK, but not too many people realise it is Cockney Rhyming Slang ("loaf of bread: head").

Further examples for your amusement and interest (the phrase is written first, with the word that is actually said aloud is on brackets and the translation comes last!)

Dickie dirt (dickie)= shirt
Almond rocks (almonds)= Socks
Whistle and flute( whistle)= suit
Jam Jar (Jam)= car
Mickey Mouse (Mickey)= house, can also be Cat and mouse
Dog and bone (Dog)=phone
Trouble and strife (trouble)= wife
China plate (china) = Mate/friend
Moby Dick (moby)= sick
Porky pie (porky/porkies)= lie
Ruby Murray (Ruby) Curry
Adam and Eve (Adam and Eve)= Believe
Cream crackered (crackered)= knackered/tired

That's just a few, so the next time someone uses any of these you might (just) be able to figure out what they're talking about!

Meanwhile, the main reason for this post was not to dwell on Cockney slang but try to move away from all the ‘trouble and strife’ in the world today! Most recently the terrible fate of those poor young people in Norway who were killed by a deranged madman. A sad reflection on today’s world when such acts can be perpetrated so easily. Imagine, someone dresses up as a policeman, a member of the public we have all been taught to respect; a keeper of the peace, law and order! Only to find this man dressed up as one and then going on a shooting rampage.

For this reason I thought I would post some ‘happy’ pictures of items made by the BBEST team. Just for a few minutes take you mind of today’s sad world and browse some wonderful talent!

Garden Sunshine by Pocketcomfort

Highly collectible miniature altered art quilt *ACEO measures just 2.5" by 3.5”

Good Day Sunshine by MagdaleneKnits

“I need to laugh and when the sun is out
I've got something I can laugh about
I feel good in a special way
I'm in love and it's a sunny day
Good Day Sunshine”

Sunshine and Shadow flower by Zudagay

This summery flower focal features sculpted petals on a sturdy base and a button center

Fused Glass Night light by Chris1

A fun night light that will make you smile

Garden of Joy by JNoriginals

Just in time to brighten your day is this blossom brooch that will dress up your jacket or sweater, a hat and even a purse!

Hibiscus Flower by Sixsisters

It is a happy looking flower!

So, hopefully, by now you will have had your mind taken off any unpleasantness and had a bubble bath (bubble)= laugh!

Some like it hot...

2011-07-26T00:08:00.000-04:00

...but probably not as hot as it has been in the United States this past week. Heat wave records from Maine to Texas were broken in mid-July when temperatures of 100 degrees Fahrenheit and higher, coupled with very high humidity, affected millions of people and strained power grids everywhere. According to the Washington Post, the "proximate cause of this heat wave was a huge ridge of high pressure at the upper levels of the atmosphere, which led to sinking air that inhibits rainfall and boosts air temperatures. The clockwise circulation around the High helped pump humid air northward from the Gulf of Mexico. The abnormally strong high pressure cell peaked in the central states on July 17 and 18, and then stretched eastward, moving the bubble of heat with it as the week wore on." (http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/capital-weather-gang/post/heat-wave-2011-stunning-national-statistics/2011/07/24/gIQAJ1FcYI_blog.html)

Sunrise Sunset Original Print

by Beth Peardon Prods

Are these extreme weather patterns signs of global warming? The answer depends on who you ask. Certainly many scientists interpret the data to support this cause, predicting that a permanent rise in summer temperatures will occur in the near future. (http://news.stanford.edu/news/2011/june/permanent-hotter-summers-060611.html) No matter what the reason for the heat is, we can only think of how to stay cool when the temperatures climb. Here are some ideas for beating the heat and humidity this summer.

Drink plenty of water. If needed, or if you need to be active in the heat, add electrolytes to prevent dehydration. Limit or eliminate alcoholic beverages, which are diuretics; they add to dehydration. So fill your wine glass with water, plenty of ice, and a splash of lemon or freshly squeezed lime rather than chardonnay.

Pretty Posies White Wine Glasses

by Glitz N Glass

Cool water is your friend. Keep a mister bottle of water in the refrigerator and use it to spritz a little cool water on your skin periodically. Keep a plastic bottle filled with water in the freezer and apply it to your ankles and behind your knees, cooling the entire body. Refrigerated, damp cloths can be used to cool pulse points on the wrists. Take frequent cool (not cold) showers.

Colorful Ice Dichroic Pendant

from Designs by Christine

Wear loose, lightweight clothing, preferably in cotton or linen - fabrics that allow moisture to evaporate from the skin. If you will be outdoors, wear a hat to protect your head and face from the sun's rays; this will also make you feel cooler in general.

Gorgeous Ladies Blue Pinwheel Top

from Stitches by Julie

Dancing Tigers Folding Cotton Sun Hat

from Althea Peregrine

Keep the heat out and the cool in. Close all curtains, shades and blinds on south-facing windows during the day, and open them at night. Shut off unnecessary electrical devices, such as computers and televisions; these items not only draw on overtaxed power systems, but they also emit heat to indoor air. Take advantage of cross-ventilation by opening windows strategically based on natural air flow, allowing any available breeze to cool a room naturally.

Summer Breezes Soy Candle

by AJ's Country Cottage

Get away from it all. If you don't have air conditioning, spend time in a public place that does. Now might be a great time to visit your local library to pick up a summer novel. Or take in a movie. If you can, take a trip to the beach where you can go for a swim and enjoy ocean breezes. Don't forget the sunscreen!

Island Beach Original Turquoise Watercolor Painting

by The Creators Palette

Serenity Beach Giclee Print - Matted and Framed

by Nature in Pastels

Stay cool, calm, and collected. Don't let the heat overwhelm your frame of mind. This is a good time to lay low, to slow down your busy schedule, and to spend time on rest and relaxation. Stroll gently on the beach and collect shells. Take a boat ride and catch the ocean spray. Or simply sit in the shade of your favorite tree while reading that book you meant to finish months ago.

3 Seashells Assortment

from Pixie Supplies

Sea Spray Original Watercolor Painting

by Yankeegirl

Try to enjoy the summer despite the heat. Create some fond memories to last through the winter months. Before you know it, those lazy summer days will give way to busy fall schedules, holiday plans, and the short days of December. Stay cool - in both body and mind! Have a relaxing summer.

Jerome Mouse - Thinkin' While Fishing

by The Mouse Hole

From Then Until Now by Pam Todd

2011-07-04T01:41:00.001-04:00

Two hundred thirty-five years ago today, the Declaration of Independence was signed by our forefathers. The story began in the early 1600s when settlers came from Europe, primarily England, to the shores of North America. These brave travelers (for it took a long time to cross the Atlantic Ocean, and the conditions on the ships were more dreadful than any of us can imagine) created a settlement in 1620 at Jamestown, Virginia. Many people died that first winter. Had it not been for the Native Americans who lived in that area and taught the Pilgrims how to plant corn and squash, even more would not have survived.

During the next 156 years, more and more people arrived, and colonies were established. Everyone was under the rule of the King of England. Eventually, the people grew tired of living under the King’s rules and of paying tax money to England, and they rebelled. They declared their independence with the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. However, they weren’t yet really free. England sent soldiers to America to control the colonists. The colonists fought back, and the Revolutionary War occurred, ending with victory by the colonists in 1783. Only then were the 13 colonies free and independent.

As time passed, the land between the Mexican Territory and the Canadian Territory was divided and the United States grew to 48 states. With the addition of Alaska and Hawaii, we are now 50 states.

The United States is a strong friend and ally to England, our original mother country. And for those of us Boomers on Etsy, there are many friendships between artists there and here, for which we are especially thankful.

Since that first July 4, citizens have celebrated our independence…….with picnics, parades, and fireworks. The red, white, and blue colors of our flag are seen everywhere. May we all pause and be thankful for the freedoms we enjoy as we celebrate the Fourth of July this year and every year.

In honor of the Fourth of July, here are some special selections from the shops of our Boomers and Beyond Etsy team.

www.yarrow1.etsy.com

www.tcpjewelry.etsy.com

www.stitchesbyjulie.etsy.com

www.thecreatorspalette.etsy.com

www.meredithbead2.etsy.com

www.dianasstainedglass.etsy.com

www.jstinson.etsy.com

www.sixsisters.etsy.com

www.fantasycreations1.etsy.com

www.chris1.etsy.com

www.allmycreations.etsy.com

LiveJournal Tags: Fourth of July,America,independence,England,1776,Bbest Team,Boomers and Beyond,red,white,blue,Revolutionary War,colonists,colonies,United States,freedom,Declaration of Independence,parades,fireworks,picnics

You’re late! You’re late!

2011-06-30T04:17:00.001-04:00

I'm late, I'm late for
A very important date.
No time to say hello, good-bye,
I'm late, I'm late, I'm late
I'm late and when I wave,
I lose the time I save.
My fuzzy ears and whiskers
Took me too much time to shave.
I run and then I hop, hop, hop,
I wish that I could fly.
There's danger if I dare to
Stop and here's a reason why:
I'm over-due, I'm in a rabbit stew.
Can't even say good-bye,
hello, I'm late, I'm late, I'm late.

Courtesy of Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

I guess the words Time Management should spring to mind but…. I say, better late than never! This post was supposed to have been posted yesterday, but hey ho!!!

At the moment, apart from the usual hectic day to day stuff, my dear daughter is very pregnant and due mid August. However, since her regular visit with the midwife a couple of days ago she has learnt that due to the position of her baby she might have to have a C section in a couple of weeks. So we now have frantic activity to get the last minute things in place for the exciting event. At least we have been told that a boy is due but I think colours are still being kept to a neutral shade.

Knit Bunny Mugrug by Blazingneedles

Beautiful Aqua Blue and White blanket by Stitchesbyjulie4kids

Crocheted Baby Moccasins by MagdaleneKnits

Lavender Hearts baby bracelet by Meredithbead2

Baby Mint Poncho and hat by Bagsandmorebypam

Nesting doves by Sixsisters

Well, I could go on and on picking out some really cute baby items from the BBEST team. That’s the trouble, you end up wanting to buy everything don’t you?

I think I have made you all ‘coo’ and ‘aaaaah’ enough. Now it is just waiting for the announcement and the flurry of activity. Then life changes for ever! Can’t wait!

What is Your Favorite Day in June?

2011-06-06T00:21:00.001-04:00

Checking out the special days in June was fun. Dairy day and donut day make me think what a sweet treat that a luscious donut (I prefer the cinnamon, round, no hole kind!) and a cold glass of milk would be. However, that just won’t work right now with the diet plan I’ve started. But, that’s another story. There are other days too numerous to mention, although some of them quite caught my fancy.

June 13 is Weed Your Garden Day. That is a never ending job, especially if one doesn’t put down the weed killer first! But, there are some gardens that just don’t need weeding. Here are a few.

www.heronkate.etsy.com

www.stitchesbyjulie.etsy.com

www.jnoriginals.etsy.com

Two other fun days are Zoo Day and Aquarium Day. If you can’t get to the real thing anytime soon, here are a few zoo/aquarium related items you may enjoy.

www.pfdoriginalartworks.etsy.com

www.eversodear.etsy.com

www.clingingimages.etsy.com

www.backroomtreasures.etsy.com

There are flowers, and then there are flowers. I’ve great respect for those who grow lovely roses because I believe they need lots of care and nourishment. Being the free for all gardener that I am, plants need to be a bit more able to survive on their own in my yard. However, Rose Day is one of the special June days. These roses don’t require fertilizer or water or special care. You will enjoy seeing them and wish that you had these kinds of roses for yourself!

www.thefiligreegarden.etsy.com

www.thecreatorspalette.etsy.com

www.pixiemarket.etsy.com

www.coloursandtextures.etsy.com

www.bytheby.etsy.com

On the diet mentioned above, fruits and vegetables are two of the main foods allowed. I’m finding them quite tasty and satisfyingly sweet (no sugar allowed on this plan). These creations by my Boomers and Beyond team members are also sweet and satisfying.

www.yankeegirl.etsy.com

www.jillstreasurechest.etsy.com

www.birose.etsy.com

Flag Day is on June 14. Every time when I was a young girl, and I would say, “It’s almost my birthday,” my parents would say “Yes, it’s Flag Day.” Who can compete with that? LOL! I found these earrings made by Joni Stinson that would be perfect for that day.

www.jstinson.etsy.com

And, last but not least by any means, June is Adopt a Cat month. Many of us have or have had these precious furry friends, and we have delighted in watching them play with a string, curl up on our laps as they emit a contented purr, or rub against our legs waiting to be fed. There are many cats still waiting in shelters across the country for good homes. For cat lovers everywhere, you may also enjoy these cat creations from the Boomers and Beyond team.

www.sixsisters.etsy.com

www.scottieacres.etsy.com

www.mysticsilks.etsy.com

www.fantasycreations.etsy.com

www.dianeclancy.etsy.com

www.ccvalenzo.etsy.com

Whatever days you choose to recognize and/or celebrate this month, have fun, enjoy the day, and as a favor to me…..eat a donut and drink some milk! I’ll enjoy it vicariously.

LiveJournal Tags: paintings,earrings,pendants,roses,fruits,cats,kittens,art,lions,fish,flag,Flag Day,donuts,milk,gardens,bbest team.handmade

What is a Mother?

2011-05-02T01:46:00.001-04:00

To all women everywhere, who by their gentle, kind, and generous spirits are mothering children, grandchildren, sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins, their neighbors, their friends, their pets, and anyone in need.

A mother loves without measure

She is one we truly treasure

She gives and gives and gives

Every minute that she lives

She laughs, she dreams, she plays

Even on her busiest days

She listens, advises, cares

To all the worries that we share

She teaches, hopes and waits

That her young will show good traits

A mother’s love cannot be measured

But by all she touches is always treasured

For those women we consider special in our lives, lovely creations await from the Boomers and Beyond Etsy Street Team.

www.whimseys.etsy.com

www.thefiligreegarden.etsy.com

www.stitchesbyjulie.etsy.com

www.sixsisters.etsy.com

www.sassalynne.etsy.com

www.scottieacres.etsy.com

www.heronkate.etsy.com

www.getlathered.etsy.com

www.yankeegirl.etsy.com

www.jstinson.etsy.com

www.thecreatorspalette.etsy.com

www.nonnie60.etsy.com

www.kimbuktu.etsy.com

www.katzskreations.etsy.com

www.poseypatch.etsy.com

www.jnoriginals.etsy.com

www.dianeclancy.etsy.com

www.hemlockhollow.etsy.com

www.fantasycreations.etsy.com

www.jillstreasurechest.etsy.com

LiveJournal Tags: mother's day,mothers,jewelry,vases,paintings,necklaces,pendants,gifts,bbest team. earrings,brooches,shampoo,handbags,scarves,yarn

Under the Arbor

2011-04-29T21:02:00.000-04:00

They give us shade on a hot summer day. They provide food and shelter for a vast community of animals. They filter the air and moderate the effects of environmental toxins. These silent leafy guardians are near us every day, and yet we quite often ignore them; we don't celebrate their beauty or learn from their steadfast presence. So today, on Arbor Day, we pay tribute to trees.

Wonder Tree - Original Mixed Media

by Sixsisters

Arbor Day is a nationally celebrated observance that encourages tree planting and tree care. The first Arbor Day took place in Nebraska in 1872; it was the idea of J. Sterling Morton, a journalist and pioneer who came from Detroit to the then treeless plains of Nebraska in 1854. Morton and his wife, both nature lovers, quickly planted trees, shrubs and flowers at their new home. Like other homesteaders, he missed the trees of his former landscape, but he also recognized that trees were important as windbreaks to prevent soil loss, as well as for fuel, shade, and building materials. Morton used his position as a journalist, and later, as secretary of the Nebraska Territory, to advocate for trees and tree planting.

"On January 4, 1872, Morton first proposed a tree-planting holiday to be called 'Arbor Day' at a meeting of the State Board of Agriculture. The date was set for April 10, 1872. Prizes were offered to counties and individuals for planting the largest number of trees on that day. It was estimated that more than one million trees were planted in Nebraska on the first Arbor Day. Arbor Day was officially proclaimed by the young state's Gov. Robert W. Furnas on March 12, 1874, and the day itself was observed April 10, 1874. In 1885, Arbor Day was named a legal holiday in Nebraska and April 22, Morton's birthday, was selected as the date for its permanent observance." (http://www.dfr.state.nc.us/urban/history_of_arbor_day.htm) The most common day for observing Arbor Day today is the last Friday in April.

In 1972, on the 100 year anniversary of the first Arbor Day, the nonprofit Arbor Day Foundation was established to promote education about and conservation of trees. For more information about Arbor Day and to learn more about trees - their identification, protection, planting and care, visit the Foundation's website, http://www.arborday.org.

In celebration of the wonderful tree, let's read Ilan Shamir's insightful poem, Advice from a Tree, while we see how BBEST team artisans illustrate the beauty of our leafy friends.

Advice from a Tree

by Ilan Shamir

Dear Friend,

Stand Tall and Proud
Sink your roots deeply into the Earth

Fall Forest Original Watercolor Painting

from pfd Original Artworks

Reflect the light of a greater source
Think long term
Go out on a limb
Remember your place among all living beings

Fused Glass Tree of Life Pendant

from Designs by Christine

Embrace with joy the changing seasons
For each yields its own abundance
The Energy and Birth of Spring

Birches - Original Watercolor Painting

by Yankeegirl

The Growth and Contentment of Summer
The Wisdom to let go of leaves in the Fall

The Rest and Quiet Renewal of Winter

Autumn Enchantment Original Watercolor Painting

by The Creators Palette

Feel the wind and the sun
And delight in their presence
Look up at the moon that shines down upon you
And the mystery of the stars at night.

Full Moon Across the River Painting

by Heron Kate

Seek nourishment from the good things in life
Simple pleasures
Earth, fresh air, light

Be content with your natural beauty

Matte Silver Tree of Life Necklace

by PixieMarket

Drink plenty of water
Let your limbs sway and dance in the breezes
Be flexible
Remember your roots

Enjoy the view!

Handmade Ceramic Heart Box with Tree

by Jill's Treasure Chest

For more about Ilan Shamir and his nature advice, tree-planting greetings, and nature-inspired journals and cards, please visit http://www.yourtruenature.com

I do, I will,

2011-04-27T10:25:00.001-04:00

I am a few days premature but the frenzy is in full swing as we head towards Friday, 29 April 2011. What is special about that particular Friday? You might well ask!!!! It is the day that we in the UK will celebrate a royal – NO! THE Royal wedding of the decade. That of Prince William and Kate Middleton or Catherine as she will be known henceforward.

Unfortunately, my wedding invitation got lost in the post so I will not be going to London. As a result, our company will not be providing the chair covers for the reception at Buckingham Palace! Hurmppph!

The last royal wedding ceremony I sat through was just thirty years ago. That was when Prince Charles and Diana were married at St Paul’s Cathedral. Here you can see them after the ceremony as they were about to reach their carriage which would take them to Buckingham Palace

In total contrast, at the time, I was living in Muscat, Oman in the Gulf.

I had been invited along with several other likeminded people to join in the festivities by meeting up in the Intercontinental Hotel in Muscat, in a specially laid out room which had a large TV monitor so that we could all follow the joyous occasion.

Intercontinental Hotel, Oman

At the appropriate time waiters came along with glasses filled to the brim with sparkling, fizzy champagne and canapés. When the happy Royal couple came out on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to meet the populace, we all drank their good health.

The wedding party appearing on the balcony of Buckingham Palace

This time we will be raising a glass or two of the bubbly stuff in celebration but, at our bolt hole. Needless to say, our TV will be on all day so that not a minute is missed! I so love a good wedding!!! I even bought some delicious snacks for eating during the day and in the evening we will have a ‘surf and turf’ BBQ. By the time I go to bed I shall be well and truly wedded out!!!

However, if you are a romantic, as I am, perhaps you may wish to follow this link http://www.officialroyalwedding2011.org/ although I am sure there will be ample footage wherever you may live.

Obviously, since we will not be at the wedding I will have to return their wedding present. However, whilst deciding what to give I did come across some great ideas from the BBEST team.

Now and Forever Tasting Flutes by Glitznglass

Purity White Rose Earrings by Magdalene Jewels

White Cake Candle by AJScountrycottage

Victorian Bride earrings by Filigreegarden

Just a few of the amazing selection of items you can view when you look for the BBEST team on Etsy.

Meanwhile, please raise your glasses to our royal couple on their wedding day, Friday, 29 April 2011. They have given us all a special holiday too so that we can celebrate in style!

Calendar Fun

2011-04-04T01:36:00.003-04:00

Have you ever googled special days and weeks for a particular month? There are quite a few sites that list celebrations for different weeks of the month as well as for nearly every day of the month. When checking out April, I was excited to find days for recognizing librarians, taking your child to work day, poetry day, astronomy day, and pet day, just to name a few. Another site listed the jewel and flower for the month. I made a list of a few of my favorites, matching them with the talents of members of our Boomers and Beyond team.

April’s Jewel is the Diamond


www.pixiemarket.etsy.com	www.jstinson.etsy.com	www.magdalenejeweles.etsy.com

The Daisy is April’s Flower


www.yankeegirl.etsy.com	www.glitznglass.etsy.com	www.backroomtreasures.etsy.com

Earth Day is Celebrated in April


www.mysticsilks.etsy.com	www.creatorspalette.etsy.com	www.heronkate.etsy.com

Frog Day


www.jillstreasurechest.etsy.com	www.scottieacres.etsy.com	www.chris1.etsy.com

Garden Day


www.stitchesbyjulie.etsy.com	www.ccvalenzo.etsy.com	www.sixsisters.etsy.com

Ocean Day


www.fantasycreations1.etsy.com	www.vanfleetstreetdesign.etsy.com	www.pixiesupplies.etcy.com

Pet Day


www.pfdorignalartworks.etsy.com	www.dianeclancy.etsy.com	www.hemlockhollow.etsy.com

LiveJournal Tags: calendars,animals,oceans,frogs,gardens,diamonds,paintings,earth,pets,dogs,jewelry,daisies

Pattern Possibilities

2011-04-03T00:03:00.007-04:00

During a weaving class I recently attended, I became acquainted with an interesting book on textile design: The Fabric Design Book: Understanding and Creating Patterns Using Texture, Shape and Color, by Karin Jerstop and Eva Kohlmar. Although the book is aimed at crafters who work with fabric, the basic pattern ideas it presents are useful for all artisans who are interested in creating unique designs for their art works. The book contains ample color illustrations and plenty of visual inspiration for demonstrating how simple lines and shapes can be used to build more complex patterns.

Let's take a look at some of the pattern basics that form the groundwork for design exercises in The Fabric Design Book. Examples from our BBEST team will help illustrate these design elements.

Intricate design structures start with the spacial arrangement of simple geometric shapes and the interplay of varying shades of color. Our tools for increasing complexity and creating unique patterns include repeating shapes, rotating shape or line direction, alternating colors, increasing and decreasing pattern size, and adding surface texture. We can combine techniques as well, broadening the scope of our design possibilities.

Original Silk Painting Fine Art - Fickle Winds

from Mystic Silks

The simplest design form is a line. We can use horizontal and vertical lines to divide an area into sections, creating stripes. By varying the thickness and spacing of these lines, we can make many symmetrical and asymmetrical patterns. Lines can be evenly spaced, or they can be alternated, thick and thin; they can also be turned at a diagonal angle. Applying color to stripes adds an extra design dimension. Using Fibonacci numbers, we can apply the mathematical principles Italian mathematician Fibonacci discovered in patterns throughout the natural world to create balanced and eye-pleasing stripe sequences. Making our stripes in size ratios that follow Fibonacci numbers - 1-1-2-3-5-8-13-21 and so on, will create a striped pattern that mimics the regular and harmonious patterns found in such things as "shell spirals, branching plants, flower petals, seeds, pine cones, and leaves." (http://www.fuzzygalore.biz/articles/fibonacci_seq.shtml)

The Emily Bag

by Posey Patch Creations

A natural step up from stripes, is the plaid, which is created by crisscrossing lines of varying sizes at right angles to one another. This interlacing of lines leads to checks and squares; crossing the lines diagonally gives us diamond patterns. Another variation of the plaid is a brick design, which is still an interlocking of lines. We can also apply Fibonacci-style line dimensions to the building blocks of plaids, to design visually appealing patterns.

Orange & White Scottie Full Body Baby Bill

from Scottie Acres Boutique

Another method for creating patterns is to repeat geometric shapes, such as squares, triangles, rectangles, circles, wavy lines, and spirals. Some of the earliest forms of decorative art utilized this technique. Starting with a single line of repeating shapes, we can make borders, which can then be repeated to make more advanced and complex overall patterns. Again, adding color variations greatly increases the design potential.

Native American Beaded Earrings (Hand Painted Porcelain: Ghi-Goo-ie Series)

from Joni Stinson, Ghi-Goo-ie Designs

Growing beyond basic geometry, we can repeat, or repeat and alternate design elements, such as leaves, animals, dots, or even very intricate pictures, to make sophisticated surface ornamentation.

Tree Floorcloth 26x34 Walkable Art

by Heron Kate

The lack of a pattern is just as important as the presence of one. We can look at the negative space created by the absence or removal of line and color as a design element in itself. For example, taking a piece of paper and cutting away sections creates a lovely pattern, as in the butterflies below.

The la

3D Butterfly & Flower Paper Garland

from Mister Penquin

By simplifying and stylizing a physical object, we can change it to an artistic form. Rather than reproducing something, such as a flower, in exact detail, we can distill its essence to create a unique design motif. Further simplification of such a motif will continue to develop new design elements. Don't forget we can also repeat these stylized elements to make overall patterns. Combine negative space with simplified designs, and we create elegant pictorial representations.

Gentle Flower Hibiscus Original Print

by Sixsisters

Brass Horse Head Pendant

by Hemlock Hollow Creations

Another way of manipulating shapes is to use mirror images. Think of taking a design element on one side of a piece of paper and folding the paper, or holding it up to a mirror, to create an exact but reversed image next to the original. We can mirror and repeat as well, just as we did with simplified images, to form a larger pattern.

Hammered Silver Post Earrings with White Pearls

from PixieMarket

Adding color to our design repertoire steps up our pattern options exponentially. We can take repetitive, basic shapes and colorize them, such as alternating hues, following a rainbow spectrum, taking different shadings of one tone, or following complementary or analogous schemes.

The Hair Care Pair that Rocks n Rolls Shampoo Bar

by Get Lathered

Using large blocks of color juxtaposed creates striking patterning effects. Patterns need not be extremely complex when dramatic color usage is the prime artistic tool.

ACEA Adobe and Trowel Giclee Print

by VanFleetStreet Design

The qualities of a color, such as intensity, shade, tone, tint, and value, change when that color is combined with various other colors. We can try pairing one color, such as the green in these coasters, with colors that are adjacent or opposite on the color wheel to see what affect this combination has on the qualities of the original color.

Spring & Summer Citrus Coaster Set of 6

from Stitches by Julie

This quilt blends a number of the techniques we have already considered by repeating geometric shapes filled with coordinating patterns, and harmonizing analogous colors. As you can see, the design possibilities are endless! Start by playing with basic shapes, add your own creativity, and you will soon discover that unique patterns are within easy reach of every artisan.

Purple Patchwork Star Accent Pillow

from ByTheBy

Surprise Packages

2011-03-28T06:00:00.002-04:00

Surprises in the mail always make for a fun day. Ever since I was little I can remember being excited when the mail man came down the street. I was always certain that each little package had something special and exciting inside, just waiting to be found out. To this day, I love to get special mailings, special letters, packages and boxes. Heck, even the dog food that we ship in is like a present!

The postal service world wide has had a fascinating history with many twists and turns. Originally, it was all about government dispatches, with public use of the postal system against the law. The Persian Empire had mounted relay messengers that would ride and stop at placed "post houses" to get a fresh horse or pass a message on to another rider. The Chinese had a posthouse service that had been started sometime between 1122 - 221 BC in a very similar vein, again used to convey official documents. The Roman Empire built an advanced postal delivery system that serviced the whole Mediterranean world - but again, only for official government dispatches. During the Renaissance corporations & guilds set up their own messenger services for business correspondence. Italy, France, Constantinople, and Russia were linked through these services, and then finally, during the later Middle Ages, personal mail & commercial correspondence were carried by private postal services.

Carrying private mail was not legalized in France until 1627 or in Britain until 1635. Private services were eventually forced out of business or purchased by the government, as they felt a strong need to control the flow of mail. There was continued evolution of the services offered, with changes to rates, increased reliability of routes, and the invention of the commercial envelope.

Yet all throughout this history people have looked forward to receiving things in the mail. For me, the BBEST Swaps are one of my favorite surprises to get in the mail, and every time I order things from Etsy it is just as fun, waiting for my precious little packages to come by way of post. The magic of the public postal service is truly amazing, and it is fun to imagine all the places our letters and packages go to, all the hands that bring them to us. Even the care of wrapping and packaging and sending out mail is just as fun.

Recently I received two very cool surprise packages, and these have inspired me to do some fun making, sending, and sharing of my own.

First, I received a completely unexpected package that was sent through the Royal Mail from Chrissie at makeyourpresentsfelt! I had won a contest on her blog many months ago, and the prize package had been lost in the mail. I fretted over this for some time, and I am sure Chrissie did as well - and then, to my surprise, she sent over a second package! I was so excited to unwrap this wonderful package full of fabulous hand made goodies! It was just like Christmas! Chrissie sent me a lovely tag calendar, a wonderful smelling cinnamon sachet, and a beautiful hand sewn heart. What a delight! Chrissie has some wonderful items in her shop that would fit into a perfectly lovely surprise package, including her Colorful Egg Cosies that would be perfect for an Easter surprise.

A few hours later my front door bell rang, and on the porch was a box - addressed to me! I opened it up as quick as a wink, and inside I found a fabulous book about mail art - Good Mail Day.

This book has tons of excellent inspiration to make envelopes works of art, really brightening up the whole letter experience. Many of our BBEST team members send their work in artistic packaging, which makes it like receiving two presents at a time! Some fun cards and envelopes to work with can be found at our own Mr.PenQuin shop, where Judy make very cool sets - some just ready to welcome in spring, like the Silhouette Picket Fence Blossoms.

Also ready to welcome spring is Yarrow1's Orange Iris greeting card - what a colorful surprise!

And speaking of inspiring packages to receive, how about these Yellow Garden Stakes from Artsielady? These are so pretty they make me want to go out and get planting!

YankeeGirl's spring photography print of Cherry Blossoms would certainly be a welcome gift, as would AltheaP's Paisley Silk Bag.

And these Pink Crystal Earrings are just the thing for an Easter outfit, don't you think? What a fun package that would be, from Magdalene's Jewels!

In honor of Pam's great post on Haiku, I will end with this thought -

Pretty little gifts
Handmade delights for the mail
Waiting just for you!

A touch of green!

2011-03-17T11:16:00.001-04:00

17 March… yes, it is Paddy’s day. First of all an apology since this was supposed to be posted yesterday which was my posting date but as the luck of the Irish would have it….. I forgot! There, I am honest!

So, here goes with all the green I can offer from the BBEST Team!

Queen Anne Lace Scarf by Bags and more by Pam

Twisted Gold and Green Flower Pendant by Zudagay

Moss in the snow brooch by Fantasy Creations1

Jasmine Green Tea by Get Lathered

Neighbourhood Girl by Sixsisters

Personalised Irish Shamrock Knit Blanket by Blazing Needles

Native American Beaded Earrings by JStinson

For each petal on the shamrock this brings a wish your way. Good health, good luck and happiness for today and every day.

Sláinte!

About Haiku

2011-03-07T01:08:00.035-05:00

Haiku is a form of Japanese poetry. Each poem consists of three lines with five syllables in the first line, seven syllables in the second line, and five in the third line. Here are some examples I’ve written. Take a few minutes, and try it yourself. Creating in this way is interesting and fun. As you are thinking about your 17 syllables, click on the photos below to see who made each item and to see what else the shops have to officer. You will be glad you did!

	*Haiku*
	A bit of haiku
	Thinking, sharing, just for you
	Boomers, buddies, friends

	*Spring*
	Spring, blowing, growing
	Wind swooshing, flowers blooming
	Beauty all around

	*Life*
	Eat, sleep, work and play
	Giving, caring, through each day
	Friends and families

	*Talents*
	Blessed with many skills
	Jewelry, clay, yarn, paints, glass
	Lovely creations

	*Boomers*
	Creating, chatting
	Caring, supporting, smiling
	Always there for all

	*Creations*
	Colorful, unique
	Paintings, pottery, jewels
	Fabric, yarn, treasures

	*Colors*
	Pinks, purples, greens, blues
	Many shades and many hues
	Created for you

Color Trends: Think Spring 2011

2011-02-26T20:13:00.000-05:00

Many of you may be familiar with the name Pantone in association with color for designers. "In 1963, Lawrence Herbert, Pantone's founder, created an innovative system for identifying, matching and communicating colors to solve the problems associated with producing accurate color matches in the graphic arts community. His insight that the spectrum is seen and interpreted differently by each individual led to the innovation of the PANTONE® MATCHING SYSTEM®, a book of standardized color in fan format." (http://www.pantone.com/pages/pantone/pantone.aspx?pg=19295&ca=10) Pantone has become the industry standard in color matching for artists and designers of all kinds.

Pantone also surveys leading fashion industry experts in order to determine the top inspiration color trends for each season and each new year. From this information they develop their Pantone color forecast chart with standardized hues that can be reproduced by professionals in graphic arts, architecture and home furnishings, paint manufacturers, fashion marketing, and industrial design. According to Pantone's market research, the 2011 color of the year is "honeysuckle," a vibrant reddish pink. Honeysuckle is described as "encouraging and uplifting. It elevates our psyche beyond escape, instilling the confidence, courage and spirit to meet the exhaustive challenges that have become part of everyday life." (http://www.pantone.com/pages/pantone/Pantone.aspx?pg=20821&ca=4)


From the Pantone website

According to Pantone, the top 10 fashion colors for spring 2011 as chosen by New York designers are honeysuckle, coral rose, peapod, beeswax, silver peony, russet, regatta, blue curacao, lavender, and silver cloud. (http://www.pantone.com/pages/Pantone/Pantone.aspx?pg=20752&ca=4) Let's take a look at how BBEST artisans are using these colors within their chosen mediums.

Of course, we must have honeysuckle represented, as it is the main color theme for the year.

Coming Up Roses Felted Wool Needle Book
by JN Originals

Waiting Cat - Original Mixed Media
by Sixsisters

Hand Designed Silk Scarf
by Mystic Silks

"Coral Rose" is said to be a sophisticated shade of orange that takes its inspiration from African, Indian and Asian influences.

Shades of Spring Original Watercolor
by Yankeegirl

Orange Sunflower Earrings
by ZudaGay

"Peapod" is a fresh, medium green tone meant to evoke thoughts of travel and adventure.

Bulgarian Sunflower Bracelet
from EverSoDear

Painting: Cute Chicks Series - Violet Green Swallow
by Backroom Treasures

"Beeswax" is a modernized ochre or golden tone which is cheerful and playful.

Amber Colored Glass Hearts Earrings
by Fantasy Creations 1

Fused Glass Small Amber Sushi Plates (Set of 2)
from Designs by Christine

"Silver Peony" is a pale and feminine shade of pink described as "ethereal" and "dreamy."

Pearl Earring - Dusty Pink, for Bridesmaids

from Bridal Jewelry by PBJ

Rose, Pink, Gold Fiber Art Flower Brooch/Hair Accessory

from Imaginuity

"Russet" is a deep, earthy brown, considered a "new" neutral.

Native American Beaded Bracelet: The Digusdi (Cousins in Cherokee)

from Ghi-Goo-ie Designs by Joni Stinson

Chocolate Brown Chunky Neckwarmer

by The Crafty Bargain Basement

"Regatta" is a refreshing blue reminiscent of the Mediterranean Ocean.

Blue and White Square Pure Silk Scarf

by Colours and Textures

Blue Flower Lampwork Swarovski Crystal Bracelet

by Magdalene Jewels

"Blue Curacao" is a lovely turquoise tone that reminds us of tropical locations.

Blue Lagoon Long and Skinny Scarf for Her

from ByTheBy

Turquoise and Pink Shells and Crystal Earrings

by Jill's Treasure Chest

"Lavender" is a soft and sensual shade of purple.

Pretty Crocheted Necklace with Lavender Beads

from Stitches by Julie

Natural Amethyst Bead Woven Bracelet

by Pixie Market

"Silver Cloud" is a brownish gray described by Pantone as the "quintessential neutral that consumers can rely on to coordinate with everything in their closet." (http://www.pantone.com/pages/Pantone/Pantone.aspx?pg=20751&ca=4)

Buck Naked Sheep Skeins - Handspun Icelandic Wool Yarn

from The Knotty Sheep

Queen Anne Lace Scarf Taupe

from Bags & More by Pam

Anfangen ist leicht, beharren eine Kunst

2011-02-21T21:54:00.009-05:00

The new year and all its promises of resolutions and changes is almost washed away by the middle of February. How quickly we get wrapped up in the every day moments of life, how soon we allow our plans to melt softly into intention. Winter does that to me, I must admit. Although I do love the winter - all of the whites and sharp contrasts, all of the silence and stillness, all of the wonderful holiday and fun snowy times we get to share - and though winter fills a place of peace in my soul, about middle of February I really feel the longing for spring.

I feel it in my bones. I am ready for blue blue skies, yellow crocus, green grass, buds on the trees and bushes. I can't wait for the pastels of spring, creeping up to surprise me from under the brown fallen leaves. I begin to get antsy for the soft spring colors and longer days with lighter evenings for outside play.

And so it was with great delight that I went looking through the BBEST shops for hints of spring, and found it.

From Sassalynne's shop -

Three Thread Selection, Aqua, Lilac, Green, Yarn, Serendipity

From The Filigree Garden - Forest Moonlight

From BytheBy - Pale Green Scarf

From The Creator's Palette -

Garden Flower Hummingbird

These touches of spring bring back my smile and help me get through these still long winter days. My daughter is back from two weeks in Munich, where it remains cold and winter. She tells me of the cold, the numbness in her fingers, her desire to be inside, the feeling that winter is never ending this year. But I persist in striving towards spring, filled up by the inspiration of our amazing team of BBESTers, each of us continuing to create through our own personal dance.

And I feel in my heart the truth of the German saying Amanda brings home to me. Anfangen ist leicht, beharren eine Kunst.

To begin is easy. To persist is art.

Birds!

2011-02-18T04:27:00.002-05:00

Some of my BBEST team members will probably know that I am very lucky to spend regular amounts of time at a place in Devon, UK, which I call my ‘bolt hole’. It is a wonderful spot where cabins nestle amongst trees along the water’s edge of an old lake that dates back to Henry VIII. Apparently at one time a convent was nearby from which the nuns used to stroll around the lake in meditation. Perhaps this is why I love the peaceful surroundings whilst sitting on the deck overlooking the water. All you can hear are the birds ranging from wrens to geese! I have a few feeders up nearby so that I can sit and observe our feather friends as they dart in and out grabbing little tidbits.

Each country has there own special birds so I won’t bore you with all that I see here. However, it does give me a wonderful opportunity to show off some of the amazing items created by the BBEST Team.

Baltimore Oriole by Sixsisters

Hummingbird on the Fly by Hemlock Hollow

Bird in the Tree Notebook by MisterPenQuin

Two Birds by VanFleetDesign

Little Birdie Fused Glass magnet by Chris1

At Rest Watercolour of a Chickadee by YankeeGirl

Owl Pendant by Chauncey

Bird Verdigris painting by JohnieBelinda

Bird in Nest by pfd Original Artworks

Birds are fascinating creatures as they fly and buzz around. Especially at this time of year when they pair up as Spring approaches and start to organise their nesting sites. Can’t wait to see the baby Moorhens following their mother down to the water and the ducklings all trying to keep up in crocodile lines. Whoever, said they were ugly???

Whilst not all of the above images depict birds from our shores they do show off the amazing talent of the BBEST Team. Thank you for allowing me to show off the creativity here.

Humble but essential tools for sewing

2011-02-09T02:11:00.000-05:00

When it comes to sewing, I'm a tool junky.

Apparently there are many sewing enthusiasts out there with similar attitudes. Basically, we just want an easier way to "get it done." Our need is the very reason that a young home economist named Nancy Zieman started a sewing notions business back in 1979. Nancy realized that the notions many sewers needed were difficult to find. She conceived the idea of a direct distribution company for sewing notions, and not too long after, a 12-page catalog called Nancy's Notions Catalog was born.

Today Nancy's Notions is much more than a mail order business. While sewing enthusiasts can still purchase notions by catalog from Nancy, the center of operations is a combined warehouse and retail center located in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. These days Nancy is an author, pattern designer, art quilter, television producer, educator, business owner and national sewing authority. Her sewing notions, fabrics, patterns, videos and books can be purchased in the retail center in Beaver Dam, online or via catalog. Her books include tips on how to use her favorite sewing notions, and are available through her business, in online and brick-and-mortar bookstores, and in quilting and fabric stores across the U.S. Her television show, Sewing with Nancy®, is a co-production of Wisconsin Public Television and SWN Productions and is the longest-airing television sewing series. Nancy now has a blog and an online video site called Nancy Zieman TV. In short, Nancy Zieman has become the Queen of Sewing Notions, and her kingdom reaches into the hearts and homes of sewers everywhere.

Though I cannot claim that I buy all of my sewing notions from Nancy Zieman, many of them were purchased in her Beaver Dam retail center, and so was my sewing machine. I own most of her books; one of them was even autographed by her when I attended one of her Sewing Expos. One fundamental tip I have learned from Nancy is that sewing tools do not have to be fancy to be helpful, and that simplicity often gets the job done best. That being said, I looked through my sewing room to find humble sewing notions that I consider essential. Can you name others? Add your favorite sewing tool to this list in the comments below this post.

The links and/or photos for the products below will take you to a page where these items can be purchased online. Obviously, there are multiple sources for these sewing notions; I have only listed one for each item.

Ezy-Hem® Gauge by Dritz is a lightweight aluminum gauge that is perfect to use as a hemming guide for both straight and curved seams. Lines on the gauge allow you to fold over fabric to the right depth, and simply press it with an iron before stitching the fabric in place. The gauge is also handy to use for pockets, collars, belts and waistbands, as well as pattern alterations.

: Ezy-Hem® Gauge by Dritz

Cottage Mills Treasure Markers come in two varieties, one in graphite for light fabrics and one in soapstone for dark fabrics. Each marker fits into an aluminum handle and is easy and comfortable to use. The graphite marks wash off, while the soapstone marks rub off. The markers last a long time, and may be sharpened with a standard pencil sharpener.

: Cottage Mills Treasure Markers

Dritz® Bodkin Ball Point is one of my most frequently used sewing notions. The slotted end is perfect for threading trims and ribbons, for turning bias tubing for button loops, frog closures, straps and belts, while the ballpoint end is great for pulling elastic through a casing. Either end is helpful as a point turner, or for poking stuffing into narrow areas.

: Dritz® Bodkin Ball Point

Gingher 6" Applique Scissor. These scissors handle well and protect your fabric from accidental cuts during not only appliqué, but also any kind of trimming, especially when you are working with fine, lightweight fabrics such as chiffon or lace. They are perfect for grading seams. The duck-billed blade pushes away the bottom layer of fabric, allowing for controlled cutting, while the bent handle positions your hand comfortably above the fabric.

: Gingher 6" Applique Scissor

Pin Curl Clips. Years ago a quilting friend gave me pin curl clips for holding quilt binding (or hems) in place instead of pins. You'll never prick your fingers while hand sewing, using these clips. If you have materials that you don't want to pin, such as leather or vinyl, these are perfect. You can also use Dritz® Binding & Hem Clips, or hair clips you can find in any drugstore. They look pretty much the same.

: Pin Curl Clips

Post-it® Flags. Transfer pattern markings to the flags, not the fabric, especially when dealing with hard-to-mark or delicate fabrics. Mark the right (or wrong) side of the fabric. Use the flag colors to organize your fabric pieces before sewing. Mark buttonholes, or use the flags as a quick, removable sewing edge guide. The adhesive on the flags will not gum up your fabric, and any ink markings on the flag will not transfer to the fabric, either.

: Post-it® Flags

Needle book, pin cushion, or needle nabber. There are many options for keeping track of pins and needles. Interestingly, a number of BBEST (Boomers and Beyond Etsy Street Team) members have come up with solutions, all of them different. Top row, left to right: Needle book by JN Originals, Needle nabber by Big Isand Rose Designs. Bottom row, left to right: Pin cushion by Asian Expressions, Pin cushion by kimbuktu.

: Needle Book, Pin Cushion or Needle Nabber

Dritz Quilting Measuring Gauge 14 in 1. There are 14 different measurements in this double-sided aluminum tool. Anytime you need to check a small measurement while quilting or sewing, this tiny gauge will be handy. Measurements range from 1/8 of an inch to 2 inches.

: Dritz Quilting Measuring Gauge 14 in 1

Clover® Seam Ripper. Not all seam rippers are alike. This one cuts cleanly through seams, basting threads, beneath buttons, or even through buttonholes.

: Clover Seam Ripper

Creative Challenge: Color Play

2011-02-05T01:33:00.009-05:00

Continuing with the theme of creative inspiration, introduced in an earlier blog post, it might be fun to try an artistic exercise by means of a monthly challenge. This month, let's play with color by using our favorite paintings or photographs to set tonal palettes for our creations. I gave this method a try last fall during a hands-on lecture given by weaver Sarah Saulson (http://www.sarahsaulson.com/) who spoke at our local weavers' guild meeting. For one of Sarah's creative exercises, we were instructed to bring a picture that caught our eye for some reason; a painting or photograph that appealed to us in some way. We also brought an assortment of yarns in various colors to share as a group. Using our favorite pictures as visual inspiration, we chose yarn colors from the group stash and assembled "wraps" - wrapping yarn around a cardboard rectangle - that reflected the coloration and feel of our photos. The idea was to use the hues from our inspiration material to create in a different medium. The group results were wonderful! It was amazing how well those simple rainbows of yarn conveyed the essence of the paintings and photographs.

So for February, I'd like to challenge you all to try a version of the above exercise using whatever method of artistic expression you prefer. Select a photograph or painting that you find interesting or pleasing, then try to create an object (for example, a sewn article, piece of jewelry, paper craft, or glass work) that reflects the color and feel of that visual illustration. If it is helpful, start by isolating the major color themes of your photo selection by looking at a color wheel. Then collect materials for your project in those themes; if you are making jewelry, for example, round up all the beads in your color themes and put them in front of you before you begin. For a few examples to get you started, take a look at "Color Inspiration from the Masters of Painting" at http://www.colourlovers.com/blog/2007/06/20/color-inspiration-from-the-masters-of-painting/ Let your preconceptions fall away and let your imagination take the reins!

Once you have finished, report back to us by leaving a comment on this blog post with a link to a photo of your inspiration object next to your creation; or leave a comment with links to each of these items separately. If you have a blog, write about your experience and show us what you made. If there are enough responses, we'll write another blog post to share your work. Most of all, have fun and let the color adventure begin!

Now, let's do a little reverse engineering on this exercise and match a famous painting with a BBEST selection, trying to convey the ambiance of the masterpiece within the palette of each artisan's item.

The subtle lavenders in Claude Monet's The Artist's Garden at Giverny are reflected in this Purple and Lavender Beaded Crochet Bib Necklace by Imaginuity.

The deep blues and glowing yellows of Van Gogh's Starry Night are captured in these Blue Glass Toasting Flutes from GlitznGlass.

The pale sea greens and swirling waves of Aivazovsky's The Tenth Wave are captured by this Ocean's Dance Artisan Lampwork, Crystal Bracelet by Ever So Dear.

Fragonard's The Reader displays themes of gold and umber as in this Yellow Brown Eyed Susan Flower Pendant by Zuda Gay.

O'Keefe's Red Canna inspires the reds and oranges in this hand dyed Vegetarian Silk from Sassa Lynne.

Feeling inspired? We hope so! We can't wait to see where your color explorations take you.

For the Birds!

2011-01-31T01:47:00.001-05:00

“Wow!” exclaimed Sally. “Those are beautiful cardinals sitting on those feeders in your backyard.”

“Aren’t they though,” I replied. “We love looking out the patio doors and seeing the cardinals, finches, blue jays, woodpeckers, and doves eat from the feeders Bob fills every day.”

“Do you worry about predators?” asked Sally.

“Well,” I answered. “See that huge pine tree just behind the flower area where the feeders are? The birds can fly into it for protection if they sense danger. And danger there is, sometimes, when a hawk suddenly appears.”

“I noticed you also have a feeder on the front porch,” said Sally.

“Yes, my husband put one there so the deer wouldn’t eat all the seed and/or knock it over every night. Also, it offers extra protection for the birds, not to mention he can watch them feed right from his recliner!” I smiled.

“What about the deer?” asked Sally.

“They are in our yard several times a day and always in the evening. Bob has gone out many times and found the feeders lying on the ground. So he started bringing them in. Just tonight, when he went out to get the feeders there was Mr. Deer standing right there eating his fill. Needless to say, he hightailed it out of there when he saw Bob and Eddie.”

“Do you go through lots of bird seed?” Sally asked.

“Yes, a huge bag every week. But, with all the snow on the found, we are sure the birds really appreciate it. Bob always sprinkles seed on the ground around the feeder because the doves especially like to eat there.”

“They are beautiful,” Sally commented. “It is just so much fun sitting here and watching them.”

“We love them, too,” I said. “And, I love the way many of my Boomers and Beyond friends include birds in their artistic creations. You’ll really like them, too, Sally. Let’s go take a look!”


www.yankeegirl.etsy.com	www.sixsisters.etsy.com


www.saromasa.etsy.com	www.altheap.etsy.com


www.thecreatorspalette.etsy.com	www.scottieacres.etsy.com


www.vanfleetstreetdesigns.etsy.com	www.dianeclancy.etsy.com


www.pixiemarket.etsy.com	www.pfdoriginals.etsy.com


www.jstinson.etsy.com	www.hemlockhollow.etsy.com


www.kittyd.etsy.com	www.jillstreasurechest.etsy.com


www.gerrysjewelbox.etsy.com	www.eversodear.etsy.com


www.chris1.etsy.com	www.chauncey.etsy.com


www.bethpeardonprods.etsy.com	www.buttondivas.etsy.com

www.asianexpressions.etsy.com

“Gorgeous!” exclaimed Sally. “Simply gorgeous.”

“And if you want to know more about feeding birds in the winter, here is a link you can check out,” I said.

http://birding.about.com/od/birdfeeders/a/winterfeeding.htm

LiveJournal Tags: birds in winter,bird seed,cardinals,woodpeckers,doves,blue jays,finches,hawks,deer,winter,bird watching,feeding birds

Elusive Inspiration

2011-01-24T09:27:00.006-05:00

Each new year many of us wake up with a thirst to make great things happen - in art and in life. We have great plans for the coming twelve months and really see that we have the opportunity to be focused, to share ourselves with the world, to create, to be better, and to really shine in our lives. At the same time that we are coming up with great plans, we also tend to remind ourselves that we have to be practical, pragmatic in our dreaming. We tell ourselves not to "boil the ocean" or to try to do too many things at once. We tell ourselves to remember how life can sweep us away without notice. We tell ourselves that the journey is the destination. And as we try to keep ourselves to "realistic and achievable" aspirations, we also try to keep our enthusiasm high, our dreams alive, our spirits engaged.

Managing all this dichotomy can sometimes actually dampen down inspiration if we aren't careful. Combine that with the normal days of a new year that pull and push and move us back into the "every day," and we can nearly lose our joy. Managing through the ups and downs of life while staying true to our artistic core is the challenge for every creative person.

Book Club recently chose a book - "My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist's Personal Journey" by Jill Bolte Taylor." What a fascinating story. Though I am more a fan of reading escape literature, this true story kept me very interested. At age 37, Jill Taylor experienced a massive stroke. Blood vessels in the left hemisphere of her brain hemorrhaged and her brain was flooded with blood. All left brain functions were impacted and initially shut down. It took Jill eight years to fully recover from the stroke, and this book is about the stroke, what happened to her, her recovery, and what she learned about the left brain (which typically controls language, linear thought, logic, the ability to get along in the world, etc.) and right brain (creativity, emotion, empathy, joy) functions and the need we have to truly balance that focus - physically and emotionally - to be whole and to maximize our contribution and experience in the world.

Again, the emphasis on finding a way to balance - in our plans, in our creative joy, in our look at the new year, and even in our brains. Life becomes a juggling act in an even more fundamental way than just juggling picking up grand kids or making dinner. Thinking about all this can be overwhelming or delightfully amusing - maybe even inspiring. And I, for one, and constantly in search of the Elusive Inspiration, enjoying it wherever I can find it, teaching myself to hold on to it tightly and use it for every bit of creative juice I can.

As the thoughts of juggling everything to actually make things happen and enjoy them too run through my mind, I have also taken several practical steps to keeping inspiration firmly in front of me. First, I am participating in the "Sketchbook Challenge." Some of you may remember Sue Bleweiss. Sue is one of the leaders of this challenge, so you know it will be fascinating. I figure at a minimum this will keep my hand in something creative every month, and there is very little pressure. (Nice!) Second, I have decided to adopt laughter in every day moments. My animals (2 new puppies, 2 new kittens!) are helping out quite a bit here; however, this still takes a bit of reminding. I am already finding a kinder me for both myself and my family - and this way I am allowing the everyday moments to inspire.

Finally, I am regularly looking through the BBEST Team shops! We share some inspiring creations in our shops every day, to light the creative fires of everyone who sees them. Take a look -

Midnight Jewels Inspiration Book from Judy Nolan's shop

Mini Crazy Quilt ACEO for Pocket Inspiration from Pocket Comfort's shop

Burst of Joy Fused Glass Pendant from Chris's shop

Arctic Sky from SixSister's shop

Ballet Slippers on Piano Keys from Beth's shop

Silk Scarf from Mystic Silk's shop

Don't these beautiful items just make you want to get going and create?

Thanks to all our BBEST team for their inspiring creations, and here is to an inspired 2011 for each of us!

All that glitters is not ….. gold!

2011-01-21T03:30:00.001-05:00

The original wording of this famous phrase was ‘all that glisters is not gold’ but over time we all adopted the word ‘glitters’ instead.

Shakespeare was the best known writer who made this phrase memorable in one of his plays entitled, Merchant of Venice. This play was said to be have been written in 1596 and included the following words.

MOROCCO:
O hell! what have we here?
A carrion Death, within whose empty eye
There is a written scroll! I'll read the writing.
All that glitters is not gold;
Often have you heard that told:
Many a man his life hath sold
But my outside to behold:
Gilded tombs do worms enfold.
Had you been as wise as bold,
Young in limbs, in judgment old,
Your answer had not been inscroll'd:
Fare you well; your suit is cold.

This poem form the play is about Portia who is a beautiful, virtuous, wealthy woman who is being wooed by numerous suitors. She is not free to decide on her own whom she will marry because her late father stipulated in his will that she must marry the man who correctly picks the one casket (out of three) that contains her picture. One casket is gold, another is silver, and the third is made of lead. The Prince of Morocco is one in a long line of suitors who tries to win Portia's hand, and he decides that it would demean Portia to have her picture in anything other than a gold casket, and so he chooses that one. As he unlocks it, he is dismayed to find a picture, not of Portia but of Death, with a message written in its hollow eye: "All that glisters is not gold; / Often have you heard that told. / Many a man his life hath sold / But my outside to behold. / Gilded tombs do worms enfold." With a grieving heart the Prince takes hasty leave of Portia, who is happy to see him go, saying, "A gentle riddance."

Several other famous writers earlier than Shakespeare have been known for quoting this sentiment such as the French theologian, Alain de Lille in the thirteenth century, who wrote "Do not hold everything gold that shines like gold". Others in time used similar wording but today we all speak and accept the word ‘glitters’ for ‘glisters’.

For those of you who are fans of the ‘Lord of the Rings’ series of books by J R R Tolkein, you may remember this poem:

All that is gold does not glitter,

Not all those who wander are lost;

The old that is strong does not wither,

Deep roots are not reached by the frost.

From the ashes a fire shall be woken,

A light from the shadows shall spring;

Renewed shall be blade that was broken,

The crownless again shall be king.

The phrase, ‘all that glisters/glitters is not gold’, simply means that just because something may look valuable, desirable or attractive, it does not mean that it will be worth having once you discover its true nature.

Personally, I love gold and diamonds and rubies and sapphires and and and! Seriously, gold is an amazing metal whether it is shown as the real thing or pretend. When I was married yellow gold was in favour whilst nowadays fashions and likes have changed and it is white gold that is favoured instead.

Take a look at the following items presented by my BBEST team mates. They might not be real gold but don’t be deceived! They are beautiful, as rich as gold, if not more so!

Heron’s Treasures

Large gold mirror from Italy… but is it really gold?

Chris1 or Designs by Christine

Gold Dichroic Heart Pendant .. a truly striking piece.

Paper Patches from Sassa Lynne

Metallic Spray for Paper Arts, Gold … something to help create the illusion?

Nonnie62 or Stained Glass by Nonnie

Gold Stained Glass Votive Candleholder .. the gold colouring gives us such a warm feeling.

Imaginuity

Rich Chocolate Copper and Gold embroidered beret. See how the gold accent ‘lift's’ the design.

Stitches by Julie

Sparkly Gold Fan Design Scarf .. the gold colouring creates a pretty and warm look.

J N Originals

Golden Meadow Crochet Thread Flower Brooch …. reminds me of fields of sunflowers

Have I whetted your appetite? Why not search for more ‘gold’ or simply find some amazing talent in the BBEST team. You never know, you might even find that pot of gold!

Bibliography: