Annette's Creative Endeavors

Personalized Burp Cloths

2009-09-03T11:11:00.000-07:00

The first two days of my September challenge, I made some cute personalized burp cloths. I made one for Rachel first to make sure I was happy with how it came together. Then, I made one for my friend Kathy who had a baby boy just a few weeks ago. This was a pretty basic project, but it was good for getting my renewed motivation going!

Craft a Day in September

2009-09-01T15:37:00.000-07:00

This is my last month of maternity leave before heading back to work. So, to keep myself motivated I am going to participate in Craft a Day in September.

Most likely, I will not actually manage to make something every day, but it will be fun to try.

Diaper Bag

2009-08-23T10:55:00.000-07:00

With a new baby around, I have found quite a few projects to do. Not all of them are done yet, but I am making some progress. I made a diaper bag because I could not find one in the stores that I liked. I am pretty happy with how it turned out. I quilted the fabric for the outside to give it some substance. Rachel's name is on the front of the bag, outlined in the lining fabric.

There is an embroidered flower on the large pocket on the other side. There are also embroidered flowers on both of the side pockets.

Inside, I lined it with a cute paisley that I found at Hobby Lobby and included plenty of pockets. There is a large inside pocket lined with scotch guarded fabric in case there is something damp that needs to be transported.

First Monday Sale!

2009-08-02T20:45:00.000-07:00

August's Etsy Texas Crafters 1st Monday Sale is August 3rd!

Everything in my shop is 20% off from now until midnight on Monday, August 3rd (excluding shipping). You can either checkout and wait for a revised PayPal invoice before paying or go ahead and pay through PayPal and I will refund the difference.

To view the complete list of 100 shops who are participating, click here.

ETC July Design Challenge

2009-07-27T13:29:00.000-07:00

Here is the information on the Etsy Texas Crafters design challenge this month. I did not include an entry, but you should go vote on your favorite of the many entries for the month!

As part of our team's Spend Your Mondays with ETC program, we would like you to join in our monthly Design Challenge.

The theme of month's Design Challenge is Summer Magic. While it may be hotter than hot in Texas this time of year, there is still something magical about summertime. Our members were asked to create something showing what makes Summer magical for them.

Sixteen of our members accepted the challenge and submitted 23 entries. You can find all the information on the entries and the link to cast a vote for your favorite entry here:

http://etsytx.ning.com/page/july-design-challenge-summer

~*~**PRIZES,PRIZES,PRIZES**~*~

The top three entries, as determined by YOUR voting, will receive prizes donated by the following:

Connie of ReFabulous.etsy.com
Liz of LavenderLizard.etsy.com
Holly of EdenEssentials.etsy.com

~*~**VOTE**~*~

Entry Descriptions, Photos, & Voting Link:
http://etsytx.ning.com/page/july-design-challenge-summer

Voting will open at 12:01am Monday Central time and will close at 7pm Wednesday Central time.

Also, only one vote allowed per IP address, but you are more than welcome to let all your friends know about our Challenge and ask them to vote as well!

First Monday Sale!

2009-07-06T12:17:00.000-07:00

Today is the monthly First Monday Sale from Etsy Texas Crafters. I am participating for the first time in ages. Check out the many shops - and check out my shop for 20% off!!

With 94 ETC shops participating this month, there's something for everyone, including LOTS of great deals! But don’t dawdle . . . these sales and special offers are only available from 12:01 am Monday, July 6th to 12:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 7th, Central Time (that's 1:01am Monday to 1:00am Tuesday, Etsy Time).

Please wait for revised invoices on purchases from the following sales list, unless listing specifies that items are already marked down (or gives other instructions). Discounts do not apply to shipping unless “Free shipping” is indicated.

Here is our list of JULY sales:

EtsyTexasCrafters.etsy.com - Team shop loaded with Texas goodies!
Buy any Taste of Texas Sampler, Get One 50% off!

%-Off Sales: Discount does NOT apply to shipping unless specified

2muchstuff2day.etsy.com - handknit cloths, baby items and swiffer-esque covers
50% off the list price of all items
alionakjewelry.etsy.com - handmade jewelry from metal, gemstones, and polymer clay.
10% off all items in the shop + FREE shipping in US and Canada.
AngelsAndOutlaws.etsy.com - Heirloom sewing, quilts and romantic vintage jewelry.
25% off all items in shop
angiehallhaviland.etsy.com - Mixed Media Art and Jewelry, knit and crochet items and more!
20% off all items in shop
artbyjc.etsy.com - original paintings , painted on leaves , wood , metal , paper and canvas , ACEOs , tote bags , and vintage.
15% off and free gift with purchase .
AWPhotography.etsy.com - Colorful fine art prints, note cards and ACEOs from my original photography
20% off all items in the shop
bdpdesigns009.etsy.com - Handcrafted Jewelry (Semi-Precious Stones/Swarovski Crystals)
20% ALL Items in Shop
beachcomberscove.etsy.com - Original Design Jewelry with a Tropical Twist
20% off regular listed prices (excluding beachy bargains section.) and Free shipping in the US; half price shipping internationally.
BesemNaturalScents.etsy.com - luxurious natural soap and candles!
20% off all purchases
butterflykissforyou.etsy.com - women,men,and children clothing and accessories, purses, crochet,embroidery,quilting and more.
15% off not to include shipping.
ByBethStudio.etsy.com - OOAK Quilted Art- Mini-Quilts, Wall Hangings, ATC/ACEO, Journals, Fabric Postcards, Bookmarks
20% off all items
carylscreations.etsy.com - Embroidery magnets, bottle aprons, stemware slippers, coasters, kitchen towels, fleece scarf, wrap & neck warmer
15% all items
ComfortAndJoyCrochet.etsy.com - Handmade scarves, neckwarmers, cowls, and more
20% off everything in the shop
crazyforcollars.etsy.com - Items for your pets
15% off all regular priced items; clearance items and shipping NOT included
Crossties.etsy.com - Hand knit accessories
20 % off everything in my shop
DRyan327.etsy.com - Handcrafted Jewelry-eclectic style (featuring Steampunk)
20% ALL Items in Shop
DuctTapeAndDenim.etsy.com - Vintage papers, fabrics, trims, & other ephemera; kits & paper packs
20% off everything in the shop
Fabfrills.etsy.com - Unique handmade bags and art dolls with attitude
20% off all items in shop
Finderskeepersthings.etsy.com - Inspired glass, charms, jewelry, and original art.
25% off all items in shop
genevausacanada.etsy.com - hand made jewelry, hand knitted items
20% off all jewelry and knitted items
GrandmaMarilyns.etsy.com - Beautiful Handcrafted Beaded Jewelry
20% off all items in shop and free shipping on orders over $20
GrandmaMarilynsToo.etsy.com - Beading Patterns, crafting supplies and destash
20% off all items in shop and free shipping on orders over $20
Hiljohn.etsy.com - Providing high-quality affordable elegance in handcrafted jewelry.
20% off regular listed prices (excluding sales and special promotions)
Hosslass.etsy.com - Creative and Functional Art, Original Paintings of horses, wildlife, equestrian, southwest and western themes.
20% off all purchases.
itsmecheri.etsy.com - Just Plain Fun Stuff / / / Elegant Adornments of the Mature Woman
50% off one(1) item valued at $10.00 or more - one discount per customer
joyceweaver.etsy.com - watercolor ATCs, handcrafted bears & friends, upcycled tote bags, OOAK cloth dolls & doll clothing
10% off all items in shop & free gift with purchase
Judy49.etsy.com - sewing, crochet, quilting, purses, bags and more.
15% off any item in store
killerbeedesigns.etsy.com - business card holders, wine bottle carriers, art quilts, patterns & more!
20% off all items in shop
laurenandrews.etsy.com - Unique handmade jewelry featuring natural stones and original art
15% off all items in store
Lavenderladybug.etsy.com - Handmade and Commercial Supplies & Destash
20% off all items in shop
marilynmacoriginals.etsy.com - Unique purses, vests, scarves, lingerie travel bags.
20% off entire shop. Bonus gift with purchase.
NewLifeDesigns.etsy.com - Unique jewelry for unique people.
15% off all items; and free shipping to the domestic U.S.
outoftheblue.etsy.com - Vintage inspired jewelry
25% off all items in shop
owlsay.etsy.com - Checkbook Covers, Passport Covers, Reusable Book Covers, Bookmarks, Business Card/ID Holders
10% off everything in the store
princessbammboutique.etsy.com - hairbows, headbands, bottlecap necklaces
20% off of all purchases and free shipping
raevyn77.etsy.com - Beaded jewelry
15% off of everything in the shop
Refabulous.etsy.com - recycled + new materials = unique totes, dryer sachets, pincushions and more
20% off everything in shop
rwencreations.etsy.com - Designer scent (type) bath products, candles, angels, etc.
20% off
serendipityrose.etsy.com - All kinds of Quality Jewelry, Beaded Gifts and Custom Design!
20% off all items in shop.
simplyraevyn.etsy.com - seed bead jewelry
15% off of everything in the shop
SNucciDesigns.etsy.com - Hand Made Jewelry
25% OFF Everything in store (Shipping discounts on sets will not be available with this offer)
SnuggleJunkie.etsy.com - blankets, burp cloths, laundry soap, comfort packs, and supplies.
20% off all items in shop
SweetWolf.etsy.com - A variety of funky handmade items, created using new and upcycled materials.
25% off all items.
tatteredtapestry.etsy.com - Baby Blankets, Bibs, Burp Cloths, Appliques, Appliqued Onesies, Wristlet Key Fobs, Diaper Bags, Purses, Totes
10% off Key fobs, 15% off all other items in the store-including clearance!
tcornell.etsy.com - Quilted & Embellished Photo Albums & Recipe Books!
15% off all items in store
ThePaperElephant.etsy.com - greeting cards, paper favors, and supplies.
20% off all items in shop
Thistlecraft.etsy.com - Hand-painted glass, CD collage cards, crochet scarves, & other fun stuff
25% off all items in shop
UltraTrixie.etsy.com - Unique vintage finds and a random assortment of destash items.
25% off all items.
vowangems.etsy.com - artisan designed jewelry, Anglican Rosaries and domino/scrabble tile pendants.
25% off all items in store plus free domestic shipping for orders $30 and over. Half price shipping for international customers on orders $30 and over.

BOGO Sales – Discounts apply to item of equal or lesser value & discount does not include shipping unless specified

arddesigns.etsy.com - Fun and funky scrabble, domino, bottlecap and glass tile pendants.
Buy One, Get One free!
cottoneyedjo.etsy.com - upcycled creations, makedos, hooked rugs and supplies
Buy One, Get One 50% Off ( item of equal or less value)
HandmadeWhimzy.etsy.com - Fun beaded and ribbon bookmarks, jewelry, and scented sachets.
Buy One, Get One 50% off – (item of equal or lesser value) includes CLEARANCE items!
HuggyBearKnits.etsy.com - Hand-dyed yarn, fiber, handspun, accessories and more
Buy One, Get one 25% off
KatiesScrapNSupplies.etsy.com - Assorted handmade tags, note cards, seals/stickers, flowers, die cuts, paper packs & more.
Buy One, Get One Free (2nd item of equal or lesser value). Plus Free Domestic shipping on all orders $20.00 or more.
KatsCozyKrafts.etsy.com - embroidery, cross stitch, punch needle, quilting, crochet, on linens, hats, scarves, cruel work, afghans,etc.
Buy One, Get One 20% off plus Free gift with purchase(limit one per customer, please)
ktmotif.etsy.com - KT Motif - Handmade Gift Tags, Premade Custom Scrapbook layouts and Custom Designed layouts
Buy One, Get One 50% off **Plus a Free Gift with Purchase (1 per customer, please)
LavenderLizard.etsy.com - Crocheted Crafting Tools, Scrubbies, Accessories & More
Buy One, Get One 50% Off OR Buy Two, Get One Free
MotsDots.etsy.com - Bright, whimsical, and colorful necklaces, earrings, button head pins, and other artisan items.
Buy One, Get One lesser item free.
NotSoDotty.etsy.com - More sophisticated but affordable necklaces, pins, jewelry and artisan items.
Buy One, Get One lesser item free.
peculiarparchment.etsy.com - handmade cards, mini thank you cards
Buy One, Get One Free
PinkPearDesigns.etsy.com - Romance and vintage inspired jewelry and hair accessories
Buy One, Get One 50% off – item of equal or lesser value
sophiecls.etsy.com - SubEarthan Cottage offers handmade soap and more.
Buy One, Get One 50% Off( item of equal or less value)
thepinksink.etsy.com - Handmade Soap, Bath & Body Products & Gifts
Buy two, get one free on all handmade soap! Let us know your freebie scent choice in Notes to Seller!
Thistlestuff.etsy.com - Craft Books, Kits, Supplies, and Other Such "Stuff"
Buy One, Get One 50% off on all items in shop.
Tiptopsdesigns.etsy.com - Korkers and other hair bows
Buy One, Get One 50% off
unkamengifts.etsy.com - chainmaile and traditional family made jewelry
Buy 3 items, Get 1 Free! Custom orders placed during the sale INCLUDED!
wiretwist.etsy.com - Visit my unique shop of wiretwisted and beaded jewelry and jewelry trees.
Buy 2 items at 20% off, Get the third free!

Free Shipping

berrybluecreations.etsy.com - Angel Guards, Bethieflies, bags, pillows, and more
Free Shipping on all items in the shop.
Carapace.etsy.com - jewelry, original art, prints and more
Free shipping in the US; half price shipping internationally
CSpaperandbeads.etsy.com - Beautiful Handmade Papers, Greeting Cards and Beadwork
Free Shipping
doubletakeboutique.etsy.com - Handmade purses/bags. Made from upcycled materials.
Free shipping with purchase of $25 or more.
EarwingsAndThings.etsy.com - jewelry
Free shipping
ElephantDreams.etsy.com - photography
Free shipping
FriendlyBanter.Etsy.Com - Handmade Felt and Ribbon Flower Brooches & Hair Pins
Free Worldwide Shipping
GoAgainstTheGrain.etsy.com - monogram design, invitations, map design and more!
Free Shipping to the US
halfofhart.etsy.com - Whimsical Reusable Fabric Gift Bags and Collectables
Free Domestic (US) Shipping
Jaquesplace.etsy.com - Handmade jewelery and glass beads.
Free shipping on all orders of $25 or more.
kuteklipboardsbyamy.etsy.com - OOAK altered clipboards, binder clips, post-it note holders and notepads
FREE domestic shipping on the purchase of ANY 2 or more clipboards (including clearance)
Mayzbeadz.etsy.com - Handmade lampwork/flame work glass beads,ooak custom orders,custom jewelry designs, earrings,bracelets,necklaces
Free shipping in US and to Canada - Free beads with each order
MiaSophia.Etsy.com - Romantic Vintage French Inspired Jewelry
Free Worldwide Shipping on orders of $15.00 or more.
pumpkinsboutique.etsy.com - Everything for your little pumpkin!
Buy 3 or more items, get free shipping! Everything in the shop is included!!
Randomocity.etsy.com - Jewelry, wire work, kids toys, jewelry boxes, and other random and custom items.
Free Shipping and Free Gift with Purchase
RHRadcliffeDesigns.etsy.com - paintings, prints and Aceos
Free shipping
SayItOnASign.etsy.com - Primitive Wood Signs, custom signs too!
Free shipping on ALL signs purchased, within the US.
smokeycrystal.etsy.com - Original Art & Collage.
Free Shipping with every purchase!
theyellowroses.etsy.com - Handmade bags & gifts
Free shipping

Other Sales/Special Offers

abbysatticsatx.etsy.com - handmade children's clothing and accessories.
Free hair accessory with every purchase!
cindyjoy.etsy.com - Handmade baby/toddler items and whatever whimsy dictates (adult costumes, dresses, jewelry, note cards)
Free Gift With Purchase (limit 1 per customer, please)
CoquetteBath.etsy.com - Fabulous soap, candles, lip balm and more!
Free gift (to equal 20% of order value) with every purchase. Your choice!
CradleAndAll.etsy.com - Play Yard Sheets, Blankets, Luxury Washcloths, and Hand Embroidery.
Free Domestic Shipping (U.S.)
diamondaj.etsy.com - Bracelets, earrings, and necklaces
Free Gift with any purchase
girlfriendstx.etsy.com - Custom childrens decor and accessories.
Free hair clip with any bow holder purchase
maisondelucille.etsy.com - children's clothing and accessories
Free Crayon Roll with purchase over $50
quotentials.etsy.com - fused glass jewelry and accessories
Free cord with any pendant purchase to complete your necklace!

For more info on Etsy Texas Crafters or to join our group, visit our website at http://etsytx.ning.com.
Also, subscribe to our monthly team newsletter via http://etsytx.ning.com and we'll let you know about all our sales and other projects, as well as give you a special newsletter-only coupon!

View our team blog at http://etsytx.blogspot.com for up to date info on our Monday Sales and Events, tutorials and featured team member interviews!

Looking for awesome ETC offerings? Search TEAMETSYTX!
http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_type=tag_title_all&search_query=teametsytx

Baby Feet

2009-07-03T12:39:00.001-07:00

For my most recent note card, I have selected this adorable picture of baby feet. The model is my very own sweet baby girl. This is a great card to give with a baby shower gift or send to someone who has a new arrival of their own. It provides a unique, hand made alternative to the cards that you can find in the stores these days. These will be up on Etsy soon!

Tulip Altered Art

2009-07-03T12:33:00.000-07:00

This image is of a tulip taken at the National Arboretum in Washington DC last spring. I thought the colors looked beautiful, almost like a painting. In working with the image, I decided to isolate the colors of the single flower in the center and enhance it to look like a watercolor painting. The black and white flowers in the background are left as a photograph to provide contrast in both color and texture. The final image is most striking when printed on metallic photograph paper. I offer this image in my shop as a limited edition ACEO - I will only make 24 of these and then there will be no more!

Here is the original image:

Here is the altered image:

I'm back!

2009-07-03T11:51:00.000-07:00

After a very long hiatus, I am back and will be posting new pictures and projects soon.

Where have I been these long months? Mostly at home, but busy getting ready for our new baby, getting things wrapped up at work so I could take maternity leave and then getting used to having a new baby at home. Our little one is two months old now and we have settled into a good routine so I can get back to updating my blog.

Morsbags

2008-09-04T19:17:00.000-07:00

I upcycled these sheets into shopping bags using the instructions from Morsbags. It was easy to follow and I love how they have turned out. This was the August Craft for a Cause hosted by SewCraftyHouston. They will be donated to local shelters and homes for the elderly so they can use them for shopping and reduce the number of plastic bags floating around. They were so fun I am going to make more!

My Brand New Bag

2008-09-04T17:56:00.000-07:00

As we are heading to Hawaii tomorrow, I decided that I needed a new bag. So, I found a pattern online, modified it to what I wanted and made it out of corduroy, a cute floral fabric and some scotch guarded fabric I had picked up from the Salvation Army store a few weekends ago. I made it big enough to hold my camera and accessories safely without looking like a standard camera bag. I even included some pockets on the inside. I am please with how it turned out.

Outside of the bag - note that the strap is lined in my floral print.

Opening the bag...there is a snap closure.

Inside the bag - with pockets and my telephoto lens. The lining is not the prettiest, but it is scotch guarded and thick so I think it will do well for the lining. I used the floral print again for the under side of the flap.

The straps are very sturdy on the sides! It was so think that I accidentally sacrificed one of my needles in the process before putting on a stronger one.

Poker Shirt

2008-09-04T17:44:00.000-07:00

Over the Labor Day weekend, Wes went with me to the fabric store to pick up some items I needed for a new bag I was making. While there, he wandered off into the pattern catalogs and turned up with a shirt pattern. He decided that I should make him a poker shirt, complete with cards embroidered on the pocket. Here are images of the results - I like how it turned out. He is wearing it out to his poker game tonight so hopefully it will be lucky for him.

New Sewing Machine

2008-09-04T17:38:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, my new sewing/embroidery machine arrived. I have finally found the time to upload my pictures of the beauty in action. The first shot is of the machine itself with the embroidery hoop attached. Next, three shots of the progress on my first design - a pretty flower bouquet on felt. Last but not least, the final product. Let me know what you think!!

The above pictures were taken using my new telephoto lens with my camera on my new tripod - so much new stuff lately!!!

10 City Promo Swap

2008-08-10T20:11:00.000-07:00

I participated in a 10 city promo swap for Etsy shops. It was organized by AlwaysAmy. I sent off 10 of my promo posters and received 4 sets of promos from other Etsy shops.

I received items from the following shops:

Crazy Bliss
Daisy Mae Designs
Flaunt It Maternity
Victoria's Art

I put up our promos at Texas Art Supply and Inversion Coffee House. Here are pictures of the posted promos:Here is picture that includes my promo posted up by AlwaysAmy:

I am in a Treasury!

2008-07-30T19:33:00.000-07:00

I was chosen to be in a treasury by someone that I met in the Etsy forums. Check it out:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=59842

ETC July Design Challenge - Summer Delights

2008-07-28T08:14:00.000-07:00

As part of our team's Spend Your Mondays with ETC program, we would like to take today to show off interpretations of our monthly Design Challenge. This month's theme was Summer Delights!

My entry for the design challenge was a Fruits of Summer Note Card set. Wes and I worked hard at pulling together and photographing some yummy treats. Then, we suffered through eating the treats when we were done. It is a rough life!

Here are some of our team creations for the design challenge (click on the image for a better view):

Team members who accepted this Design Challenge and listed items pertaining to this month's theme include the following:

EtsyTexasCrafters.etsy.com - ETC Team Shop, loaded with Texas Goodies

AngelsAndOutlaws.etsy.com - A place for the romantic cowgirl in us all
ApacheMoon.etsy.com - Unique & Custom Silver Jewelry for a Joyous Spirit
AWPhotography.etsy.com - ACEOs, note cards and fine art prints from original photography
ByBethStudio.etsy.com - OOAK art quilted items such as fabric postcards, ATCs/ACEOs, bookmarks and journals
CarolBradley.etsy.com - Bead and wire jewelry
CarylsCreations.etsy.com - Novelty embroidered items: magnets, dish soap bottle aprons, squares for quilts, "glass slippers", flour sack kitchen towels
Chido.etsy.com - Fused glass pendants, earrings and bowls
ChristinasMagic.etsy.com - Wearable Art, Paper Goods, Paintings, & ACEOs
CindyJoy.etsy.com - Beautiful baby bounty from Bundles of Joy
EcoFab.etsy.com - Fabulous fabrics and finds
ElephantDreams.etsy.com - Photographs from around the world
FabFrills.etsy.com - Unique handbags, sassy art dolls & other fab things
FandangoMoon.etsy.com - Greeting cards, notes, bookmarks and tags
FriendlyBanter.etsy.com - Cute crochet accessories
GreerDesign.etsy.com - Whimsical Pet & Wildlife Art
HandmadeWhimzy.etsy.com - Fun, unique jewelry, bookmarks, handpainted decor and more
ItsMeCheri2098.etsy.com - Handcrafted jewelry, home decor, gifts and more
KillerBeeDesigns.etsy.com - Business Card Holders, Purses, Textile Art, Wine Bottle Carriers, and ACEO's
MayzBeadz.etsy.com - Handmade Lampwork Beads
MiaSophia.etsy.com - Stained glass panels and jewelry
PumpkinsBoutique.etsy.com - Custom Accessories for Your Little Pumpkin
RevolutionArtPhoto.etsy.com - Fine Art Photography
SerendipityRose.etsy.com - All kinds of Jewelry and Beaded Gifts
SimplyCynful.etsy.com - Custom Bows, Headbands, Socks, Flip Flops, & Tutus
SpiritMama.etsy.com - Spiritual and Nature Inspired Art & Jewelry
SweetWolf.etsy.com - Funky handmade items for you and your home
Thistlecraft.etsy.com - Handpainted glass & window clings, CD collage cards, crochet scarves, & other fun stuff
TimelessDesigns07.etsy.com - Wire Sculpture & Custom Jewelry
TinaLewis.etsy.com - Handmade pottery and ceramic art
Tulip36.etsy.com - Beaded Jewelry
UnkamenGifts.etsy.com - Jewelry and Dolls

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To find our Design Challenge Items, change the default search to "All Items: tags, titles" and search on "TeamEtsyTx DesignChallenge" or click on the following link:
http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_type=tag_title_all&search_query=teametsytx+designchallenge

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You can find a list of our current members in the following locations:
1. On our website at http://www.etsytx.org (includes shop descriptions)
2. On our Etsy team profile at http://team.etsy.com/profilest/tx.shtml
3. In our team shop's Favorite Sellers list

To find more items by ETC members, search for our team tag of TeamEtsyTx - don't forget to search All Items to find Supplies and Vintage treasures as well!

http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_type=tag_title_all&search_query=teametsytx

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Join our mailing list via our team blog at http://www.etsytx.org/wordpress & receive our monthly newsletter to hear about that month's sales & other events, plus get a special "newsletter-only" coupon valid on purchases from our team shop.

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Interested in joining ETC? Submit your information via our website at http://www.etsytx.org/contact.html
(membership requests are processed once a week)

My first ACEO

2008-07-17T19:33:00.001-07:00

Tulip1WM, originally uploaded by Annette98.

I have seen tons of ACEOs and I love the idea of having art in a small trading card format. I feel that the small format opens me up to a lot more creativity with my photography.

The listing that I have put up is a tulip picture that I took on our trip to Washington DC a few months ago. I altered the background to be black and white and then changed the central tulip to look like the painting. I had it printed on metallic photographic paper, which gives it a really interesting finish. To top it off, I have mounted it on watercolor paper.

This is a limited edition - #1 of 24.

I listed my first ACEO as a PIF ("pay it forward") which means I am only charging the $0.20 listing fee plus shipping. Shipping is free if it is combined with something else from my shop. I bought some PIF listings last week and this is my first step in paying them back.

ETC First Monday Sale!

2008-07-07T06:17:00.000-07:00

It's time for another amazing ETC First Mondays Sales Event! So, come in out of the heat, grab you a glass of iced tea, and join us for some fantastic sales!!!

♥ With more than 60 ETC shops participating this month, there's something for everyone, including LOTS of great deals! But don’t daudle . . . these sales and special offers are only available from 12:01 am to 12:00 Monday, July 7th, Central Time (that's 1:01am Monday to 1:00am Tuesday, Etsy Time).

♥ Please join our mailing list & receive our monthly newsletter to hear about that month's sales & other events, plus get a special "newsletter-only" coupon valid on purchases from our team shop. Join via our team blog at http://www.etsytx.org/wordpress

♥ To find our creations, search for our team tag of TeamEtsyTx

♥ Interested in joining ETC? Submit your information via our website at http://www.etsytx.org/contact.html

♥ Here’s the awesome sales list for this month -- please wait for revised invoices unless sales listing specifies that items are already marked down (or gives other instructions).

♥ Here's this month's sales list.....

ETC TEAM SHOP
etsytexascrafters.etsy.com = 20% off all items in shop

%-OFF SALES: DISCOUNT DOES NOT APPLY TO SHIPPING UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED

2muchstuff2day.etsy.com - Handknit cloths, felted bowls, baby items, and natural stone jewelry
20% off all items in shop
angelsandoutlaws.etsy.com - A Place for the Cowgirl in Us All
25% off all items in shop
angiehallhaviland.etsy.com - Beaded, Collaged, and Mixed Media Art Creations
15% off all items in shop
apachemoon.etsy.com - Jewelry of many colors
20% off all items in shop
artbyjc.etsy.com - Original paintings, painted on leaves, ACEOs , bookmarks, wood & metal
15% off all items in shop
awphotography.etsy.com - Cards & Prints from Original Photography
20% off all items in shop
barbsgarden.etsy.com - Fine Art at reasonable prices
15% off all Studio sale items in shop, 10% off all other items in shop
beautifulmemories.etsy.com - Beautiful, lifelike Reborn dolls
10% off all items in shop
beckymae.etsy.com - Purses, Jewelry & Dresses from vintage items
50% off all Jewelry in shop, and as always Free Domestic (US) Shipping
brandyratliff.etsy.com - Quilts, Blankets, Afghans, & More
10% off all items in shop
christinasmagic.etsy.com - ACEOs, handmade jewelry, handpainted clothing, decorative ceiling fan and light pulls
10% off all items in shop
cindyjoy.etsy.com - Adorable onesies & baby blankets
10% off all regularly priced items in shop, plus Buy One item in Sale Section and Get Another Sale Section item 50% off
cinnascents.etsy.com - Retro style aprons & accessories
20% off all items in shop, plus Free Shipping
claytiger.etsy.com - Funky, Chunky Copper, Silver & Polyclay Jewelry
20% off all items in shop, plus Free Shipping - does not include collaborative items (raku crosses)
Crossties.etsy.com - handmade fashion and home accessories
15% off all items, plus Free Shipping on all sales totaling $50 or more after discount
DuctTapeAndDenim.etsy.com - Vintage papers, ephemera, fabrics, & mixed media collages
20% off all items in shop
elephantdreams.etsy.com - Eclectic Art Photography
20% off all items in shop
emilydeweesjewelry.etsy.com - Vintage Buttons, Glass drops, Portrait photo pendants
20% off all regularly priced items in shop
fabfrills.etsy.com - Handbags created from recycled and new materials, and art dolls with attitude
20% off all items in shop
finderskeepersthings.etsy.com - Inspired charms, repurposed jewelry, & original art
25% off all items in shop
gigglesgrinsdesigns2.etsy.com - Hand-painted children's & nursery room decor
15% off all items in shop
handmadewhimzy.etsy.com - unique jewelry, beaded bookmarks and decorative painting
20% off all Christmas items in shop (Cannot be combined with any other discount)
jinxydv8.etsy.com - Women's clothing & accessories
50% to 60% off selected items, plus Free Domestic (US) Shipping
jmday.etsy.com - Felt toys, blankets & accessories
25% off all items in shop
judy49.etsy.com - Judy, Jonesboro - Filet Crochet, Machine Embroidery, & Sewn Items
10% off all items in shop
lasewcouture.etsy.com - Mod inspired children's clothes
20% off all items in shop, plus Free Shipping
lavenderladybug.etsy.com - Supplies and Destash
25% off all items in shop
lucybluestudio.etsy.com - Eclectic jewelry and art
15% off all items in shop, and as always, Free Shipping on all purchases
margeeta.etsy.com - Handmade goods featuring original art
15% off all items in shop
marysmadness.etsy.com – Charm bracelets, photo mosaics, & supplies
20% off all items in shop, and as always, a Free Gift with purchase
miasophia.etsy.com - Handmade Jewelry with a Twist of Fun, and Stained Glass Panels
20% off all items in shop
Mydesigncollectibles.etsy.com - Polymer clay items and Kelly's Crosses (handcrafted crosses made with barnwood and various decorations)
10% off all items in shop
outoftheblue.etsy.com - Eclectic, vintage-inspired jewelry
25% off all items in shop
refabulous.etsy.com - Recycled items are blended with new materials to create one-of-a-kind, hand-made articles
20% off all items in shop
rhradcliffedesigns.etsy.com - Watercolors, photographs, jewelry, and prints
20% off all items in shop
serendipityrose.etsy.com - All Kinds of Jewelry & Beaded Gifts
20% off all items in shop
simplycynful.etsy.com - Custom bows, headbands, socks, flip flops, & tutus
10% off all items in shop, including Clearance items
simplyraevyn.etsy.com - Hand-beaded Jewelry
20% off all items in shop
sophiecls.etsy.com - SubEarthan Cottage has a variety of handmade soaps, jewelry and other unique gifts
10% off all items in shop
sparklystrandz.etsy.com - Beaded jewelry, baby jewelry and crochet baby onesies and gifts
15% off all items in shop
sugarlovehoney.etsy.com - Tutus, wreaths, baby & wedding corsages, pillowcase dresses, blankets
10% off all items in shop
sweetwolf.etsy.com - Funky handmade goodies for you & your home
25% off all items in shop, plus Free Shipping on purchases of $30 or more (after discount)
thistlecraft.etsy.com - Handpainted glass & window clings, CD collage cards, crochet scarves, & other fun stuff
20% off all items in shop (except Standing Sunflowers), plus Free Gift with purchase (one per customer, please)
tpdesign.etsy.com - Handmade home decor & paper goods
10% off all items in shop (except accordion books), plus Free Gift Wrapping if requested
ultratrixie.etsy.com - Vintage, destash, & other random whatnots
25% off all items in shop, plus Free Shipping on purchases of $30 or more (after discount)
windtwirler.etsy.com - Unique & unusual gifts and accessories
15% off all items in shop

BOGO SALES - DISCOUNTS APPLY TO ITEMS OF EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE, AND DISCOUNTS DO NOT INCLUDE SHIPPING UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED

designsbycher.etsy.com - Handcrafted Jewelry created with Love & Care
Buy One item at $30 or less, Get One 50% off (excludes all items over $30)
happyday.etsy.com - Beautifully designed knitting patterns and homemade baby/momma supplies.
Buy One Pattern, Get One Free - Just let her know which pattern you pick for your second in the "Notes to Seller" box during checkout
jachlomi.etsy.com - jewlery, kids' clothes, and lots of other stuff
Buy One, Get One 50 % off
lavenderlizard.etsy.com - Crocheted apparel and accessories & more
Buy One, Get One 50% off
raevyn77.etsy.com - Handmade Jewelry
Buy One, Get One Free
scribbles.etsy.com - Beaded pens and pencils
Buy One, Get One 50% off (excludes custom orders)
starmekcreations.etsy.com - Beautiful handcrafted jewelry
Buy 2 Pendants, Get 1 Scrabble Tile Pendant Free, OR Buy 3 Pendants, Get 1 Pendant and 1 Ball Chain Free
tiddlyinks.etsy.com - Original, one of kind illustrations created in watercolor and ink, as well as cards and custom nameplates
Buy one item under $30, Get One 50% off (excludes items over $30 and items already on sale)

FREE SHIPPING

goagainstthegrain.etsy.com - Paper crafts & Wood crafts
Free Shipping, plus Free monogram with purchase of any other item
joyceweaver.etsy.com - Original Handcrafted Bears, Dolls, Mixed Media, and Watercolor
Free Shipping
thealteredblacksheep.etsy.com – Jewelry, Magnets, Supplies, and More
Buy 4 "Just Enough" packets, and receive Free Shipping, and as always, a Free Gift with purchase

OTHER SALES & SPECIAL OFFERS

apunkincardcompany.etsy.com - Handmade personalized stationery and custom wedding invitations
Free card with every order (one per customer, please)
grandmamarilyns.etsy.com - Handcrafted beadwoven jewelry
Free Domestic (US) Shipping
preciouslinks.etsy.com - Custom Jewelry
Free gift with each order (one per customer, please), plus look for Christmas in July sales
unkamengifts.etsy.com - Jewelry & Dolls
Free keychain (of seller's choice) with purchase of $20 or more (one per customer, please)

♥♥♥ Happy Monday!!! ♥♥♥

My Wonderfully Wasted Day

2008-07-05T17:42:00.000-07:00

Today, Wes went off to Lake Charles to play poker with a friend. I had a wonderful day of doing pretty much nothing at home alone. I watched some Law & Order (is it on 24 hrs a day?), surfed the Etsy forums, shopped online a bit, and came up with some new ideas for things to list in my shop. I also crocheted a cotton face cloth - I just started using these recently and I love them! It has been fabulously relaxing.

Of course, what I should have been doing was cleaning the house, particularly the kitchen which was hit pretty hard by our dinner party last night. That can wait until tomorrow!

Later thie evening, I might get the sewing machine back out and make something from the fabric I bought at Ikea this week. Ah, the beauty of a lazy day at home.

To recap my shopping, I bought a few PIF (pay it forward) items on Etsy. They were a great deal and really cute! I love the idea of the pay it forward items. Once I receive these, I will be listing some of my own. Here is what I got:

http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=9369575
http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=9369574
http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=9369573

Check out these sellers and see if you find something you like!

ETC Has Secrets!

2008-06-30T10:44:00.001-07:00

Here is the entry from the ETC blog with all of the great information about the fun activity today. Check it out!!

ETC Has Secrets!

-:¦:- . -:¦:- -:¦:- . -:¦:- -:¦:- . -:¦:- -:¦:- . -:¦:-

Celebrate this rare 5th Monday of the month with the Etsy Texas Crafters, finding our Secrets!Our team mascot, Armadillo Tex, is hiding in several of our members’ shops…. Find him and purchase the item in which he is hiding, and you will receive a FREE gift as your reward!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/26516432@N03/2616800663/in/pool-teametsytx

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ETC Secrets are only available from 12:01 am to 12:00 Monday, June 30th, Central Time (that’s 1:01am Monday to 1:00am Tuesday, Etsy Time).Each Secret in which Armadillo Tex’s picture appears will specify the free gift to be received with the purchase of that item. This will vary from shop to shop, and possibly between items in the same shop.There will be no more than 2 Secrets in each of the participating shops.
-:¦:- . -:¦:- -:¦:- . -:¦:- -:¦:- . -:¦:- -:¦:- . -:¦:-

ETC Members with Secrets this month include:

artbyjc.etsy.com Original paintings , painted on leaves , wood , paper , metal ,etc.
awphotography.etsy.com - Note cards and fine art prints.
bellalunacoffin.etsy.com - mixed media jewelry & accessories
cindyjoy.etsy.com - unique, handmade baby gear etsytexascrafters.etsy.com - ETC Team Shop, loaded with Texas goodies!

fabfrills.etsy.com — Unique handbags, sassy art dolls & other fab things!

friendlybanter.etsy.com – crocheted items

handmadewhimzy.etsy.com - unique jewelry, beaded bookmarks and decorative painting
kcknits.etsy.com -Handspun yarn, spinning batts and handknit items

killerbeedesigns.etsy.com - Killer Bee Designs: Purses, Business Card Holders, Artwork and More!

lavenderlizard.etsy.com - Crocheted Accesories, Scrubbies, Supplies & More!

mayzbeadz.etsy.com - Handmade Lampwork Beads miasophia.etsy.com – Handmade Glass Jewelry With a Little Fun Added
preciouslinks.etsy.com – “A memory in every link” custom jewelry
raevyn77.etsy.com – Simply Raevyn Beautiful Handmade Beaded Jewelry
serendipityrose.etsy.com - Handcrafted Jewelry and Beaded Gifts
simplycynful.etsy.com - Custom Bows, Headbands, Socks, Flip Flops, & Tutus
simplyraevyn.etsy.com – hand beaded jewelry

sococreative.etsy.com - Stylish, decorative prints of original digital artwork

sophiecls.etsy.com - SubEarthan Cottage-Soaps, jewelry, and other unique gifts.

SweetWolf.etsy.com - Funky Handmade goodies for you and your home thepaperelephant.etsy.com - Greeting cards, paper favors, promo items, and supplies

thistlecraft.etsy.com - Handpainted glass & window clings, CD collage cards, crochet scarves, & other fun stuff

UltraTrixie.etsy.com - random whatnots and other interesting stuff.

-:¦:- . -:¦:- -:¦:- . -:¦:- -:¦:- . -:¦:- -:¦:- . -:¦:- Need help finding Tex? Search Etsy using the tag “ETCSecrets” and keep and eye out for listings with Tex’s picture in them — only the ones with his picture in them include FREE gifts! And, yes, some items have been tagged that do not include a picture of Tex — we didn’t want to make this too easy for you!

http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_type=tag_title_all&search_query=etcsecrets

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♥ Please join our mailing list & receive our monthly newsletter to hear about that month’s sales & other events, plus get a special “newsletter-only” coupon valid on purchases from our team shop. Join via our team blog at http://www.etsytx.org/wordpress

♥ To find more items by ETC members, search for our team tag of TeamEtsyTxhttp://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_type=tag_title_all&search_query=teametsytx

♥ Interested in joining ETC? Submit your information via our website at http://www.etsytx.org/contact.html (membership requests are processed once a week)

Vernazza, Italy

2008-06-26T20:45:00.001-07:00

Italy1WM, originally uploaded by Annette98.

This is by far my most popular picture on Etsy and on Flickr. I am doing a test post from Flickr for blogging my images directly...I thought I would use this one because I really like it.

Informative Blogging Topics

2008-06-26T14:27:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about what I could possibly post up here that would not make me feel like I am just talking about myself all of the time. The ideas that came into my mind are similar to the how-tos that I have listed below. I wrote those because I hoped they would be helpful to people. Now, I am trying to figure out what other topics might be helpful.

Here is what I have thought of so far:

* Gimp Tutorials
- Basics of resizing images
- Changing the background color
- Basic image enhancements
* Blogging
- How to add widgets
- How to use Google Analytics or other statistical information to track blog hits
- Suggestions for promoting your blog

Do you have any other suggestions? Leave me a comment and let me know what you would like to learn about!

Texas Sunflowers

2008-06-24T06:45:00.001-07:00

Our trip to the Hill Country of Texas for the family reunion last weekend was a lot of fun. While were were driving on Hwy 90 west of San Antonio, we came across a beautiful field of sunflowers. Of course, I had to stop for a quick little photo shoot. I think the pictures came out great. I put them together as a notecard set in my shop. Here are my favorite pictures that I got:

ETC Design Challenge - All Things Texas

2008-06-23T11:38:00.000-07:00

Here is the post from the ETC blog on today's activity:

As part of our team’s Spend Your Mondays with ETC program, we would like to take today to show off interpretations of our monthly Design Challenge. This month’s theme was All Things Texas!

Team members who accepted this Design Challenge and listed items pertaining to this month’s theme include the following:

EtsyTexasCrafters - ETC Team Shop, loaded with Texas Goodies

AmberCripe - Baby Wipes Cases and More
AngelsAndOutlaws - A Place for the Romantic Cowgirl in Us All
ApacheMoon - Unique & Custom Silver Jewelry for a Joyous Spirit
AWPhotography - Cards & Prints from Original Photography
CindyJoy - Unique, High Quality, Stylish Baby Gear
ElephantDreams - Eclectic Artful Photos: Color, Black-White, Unique
FindersKeepersThings - Inspired Charms, Repurposed Jewelry & Original Art
GreerDesign - Whimsical Pet & Wildlife Art
HandmadeWhimzy - Unique Jewelry, Beaded Bookmarks, Painted Items
LavenderLizard - Crocheted accessories, scrubbies, and more
LindaGJ - Whimsical Sculptures & Prints
PreciousLinks - One-Of-A-Kind Custom Jewelry, & Doggie Jewelry Too
SimplyCynful - Custom Bows, Headbands, Socks, Flip Flops, & Tutus
SweetWolf - Funky Handmade Accessories for You and Your Home
Thistlecraft - Handpainted glass & window clings, CD collage cards, crochet scarves, & other fun stuff
TiddlyInks - Original Watercolors of Whimsical Animals & Kids

Here are just a few of our Design Challenge Creations

Note Card Set

2008-06-22T15:46:00.000-07:00

I finally decided to list some of my note cards as a set. I had them listed individually for $2 each and decided to go for a set of 6 for $10. I chose 6 of my favorite flower pictures - they are very bright and happy. Anyone who buys it is free to choose whatever images they prefer or multiples of the same image. Here are the ones that I chose:

* Floating Flowers

* Coral Tree in the Sky

* Orange Flowers

* Daisies

* Lotus Flower

* Hyde Park Tulips

Experimenting with Gimp

2008-06-21T21:31:00.000-07:00

Inspired by a question on the Etsy forums, I decided to do a quick experiment to see what kind of pop art-ish images I could create in Gimp. It is fun to be inspired to play around a bit in the middle of the night when I really should be in bed.

My favorite result was with my Celtic cross picture from Ireland, because it is a very simple subject:

Here are the results (using my current favorite flower photo):

And here of Wes and me in Scotland last year:

To do this, I just upped the contrast and played with the Hue-Saturation.

How to use a blog reader

2008-06-21T07:26:00.000-07:00

I love to read lots of blogs - everything from friends, friends of friends, people I find through Etsy, random blogs I find. For a while, I would just go through each of them every day or so and see if something new had been posted. The more blogs I found, the more time consuming this because. Also, there are a lot of people who blog very irregularly so I would stop looking and miss new fun posts.

Recently, I discovered Google Reader. This is a great way to compile and subscribe to all of the blogs that you read and see when something new is posted. I know there are a lot of other options out there to do this as well.

If you would like to start using this, here are the steps that I followed (it is so easy)!

1. In Gmail or Google, click on Reader to get set up and log in.

2. On any blog that you see, just click on Subscribe. In Blogspot, at the bottom is will say "Subscribe: Posts (Atom)". Then, follow the on-screen instructions.

That's it - you are set up. Now, you just need to log in to reader to see what is new! I have my blogs organized by topic - Friends, Family, Etsy, etc. This seems to work well for me.

Feel free to test it out by subscribing to my blog!

Adding Pictures to Your Blog Header

2008-06-20T09:23:00.001-07:00

I will start out letting you know, for the record, that I came up with this approach on my own by trial and error and that there is quite likely a better way to pimp your blog out on the internet somewhere. That said, I like the way it turned out and I like the flexibility to put up a picture that I like without bringing in all the other stuff that would come with a whole new template.

These instructions are based on the standard "Rounders" template in Blogger. It should work with any standard template that has a solid header across the top. In Dots, for example, the header is only on the side bar so this approach would not work.

Step 1: Upload whatever picture you would like to use to the internet. For this, I found the easiest place was on Picasa - just click Photos at the top of your gmail page or go to http://picasaweb.google.com/home.

Step 2: Open your blog, sign in, and click Customize in the top right corner. Under Layout, click "Edit HTML".

Step 3: Do not let all the HTML junk here intimidate you. You can ignore most of it - you are looking for one specific item. Scroll down until you see this:

/* Blog Header
----------------------------------------------- */
#header-wrapper {
background:$titleBgColor url("http://www.blogblog.com/rounders3/corners_cap_top.gif") no-repeat $startSide top;
margin-top:22px;
margin-$endSide:0;
margin-bottom:0;
margin-$startSide:0;
padding-top:8px;
padding-$endSide:0;
padding-bottom:0;
padding-$startSide:0;
color:$titleTextColor;
}

You will be replacing the italicized link with a link to your picture.

Step 4: Go back into Picasa, click on your uploaded photo and click "Link to this Photo". Select size Large.
Step 5: Select the HTML to embed in website. Copy and Paste it over only the italicized part of the above. It will look like this:

background:$titleBgColor url(< href="http://picasaweb.google.com/[username]/[folder]/ photo?authkey=CtiTjzgr4aQ#5213797577318411122">
< src =""http://lh4.ggpht.com/[username]/
SFshRc7bK3I/AAAAAAAABZI/5PetUjBddcc/s800/[image].JPG"
/>) no-repeat $startSide top;
margin-top:22px;

Step 6: Delete only the RED portion of the above. Now it will look like this:

background:$titleBgColor url("http://lh4.ggpht.com/[username]/SFshRc7bK3I/AAAAAAAABZI/
5PetUjBddcc/s800/[image].JPG") no-repeat $startSide top;
margin-top:22px;

Step 7: Click Preview. Your blog should open in a new window and you should now see your image in the header. However, it might still be too small. You can adjust the height if needed (see Step 8). If you are happy with the way it looks now, click Save Template and you are finished.

Step 8: To adjust the height of the image, just enter the height in pixels that you would like after the semicolon like this (300 pixels for example):

background:$titleBgColor url("http://lh4.ggpht.com/[username]/
SFshRc7bK3I/AAAAAAAABZI/5PetUjBddcc/s800/[image].JPG") no-repeat $startSide top;
height: 300px;
margin-top:22px;

Step 9: Click Preview again to see how the height looks. You can go back and adjust Step 8 until it looks like you want it to. When you are happy with it, click Save Template and you are done.

Good luck! I know this may seem a bit complicated if you have not programmed in HTML before, but if you find the relevant section and only adjust these specific items then it will be easy to do.

Blog revamp

2008-06-20T08:14:00.000-07:00

Today I decided to play around with the HTML on my blog layout. I found that I could add my own images to the header and sidebar sections. You will see my Hyde Park tulips peaking out at the top of the header and the ceiling from the Grand Lisboa Casino in Macao over to the right. I am working on finding something more than boring gray for the background, but have not had much luck yet. If you are reading this and the background is a more interesting color, I have had success. If not, then, well, not. Maybe I will be able to find a how-to on the internet somewhere.

It has been a lot of fun digging into the HTML for the template and trying to figure out what the programmers were doing and how I can adjust it without breaking it. If you are interested in learning how to do the same thing, just let me know and I will be happy to provide a tutorial.

My first ad

2008-06-18T14:03:00.000-07:00

I found an offer for 11 days of free ad space in the Etsy forum and I took it. Please check out my ad on this blog and let me know what you think!

Hyde Park Tulips

2008-06-17T10:43:00.001-07:00

When I was visiting Wes in London last April, I spent a relaxing morning wandering around in Hyde Park and surrounding areas of London. I had a lot of time to kill while Wes was in class. The spring weather was great and I got to take some great pictures of the beautiful flowers they had out in the landscaping.

Off for the weekend...

2008-06-14T06:04:00.000-07:00

We are heading over the Hill Country to attend a family reunion for my husband's mother's family. I am hoping there will be good weather so that I can get some nice pictures. It is beautiful out there! With any luck, you will see some new Texas pictures coming soon.

This is a lot of work!

2008-06-12T20:01:00.000-07:00

As I am coming to the end of my first week of having an Etsy shop, I realize just how much work this is! There are so many things to think of - what pictures to use for my listings, what kind of prints, what kind of cards to use, how to price things effectively. Once I make those decisions, it is how to package, how to ship, how to promote the store so people see what I am doing. Then, there is all the time that I need to spend making sure the photos look right, posting the images and writing the listing, ordering the prints so that I have my inventory built up for what is listed. Not to mention the time spent in the Forums trying to keep up the visibility of my shop and learn the ropes. Whew!

In Etsy, I feel like a very small, very unfamiliar fish in a big giant pond. I guess most people must feel like this in the beginning. I am sure I will get the hang of it eventually...fortunately I have great support from my husband and my sister.

Wish me luck!!

Coral Tree in the Sky

2008-06-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

This picture is very simple, but I love it. In the picture itself, I enjoy the color of the sky and the unique flowers of the coral tree. I think this tree is native to Australia, but we were in Carlsbad, California when this picture was taken.

The other reason that I love the picture is for what it reminds me of, although this may not mean much to anyone else. Wes and I were in California in March 2005 when he took me to San Diego for a surprise weekend trip. We were supposed to be spending the week at my parents house and he booked the flight from there! It was on this trip that he proposed (and I accepted) - he did a great job and it was very sweet. All of the pictures from the trip will always have a special place in my heart, despite all the other great places we have been together since then.

Vernazza - Cinque Terra, Italy

2008-06-10T19:52:00.000-07:00

I thought it might be nice to move out of Asia and explore some of the other places we have visited. Last year for Easter, Wes and I traveled to Italy - we went hiking in the Cinque Terra for the first few days and then went to Florence and Pisa. The Cinque Terra are a series of 5 small villages along the Mediterranean coast of northern Italy (check wikipedia for more info). My sister and I spent time there years ago as well. It is a beautiful place!

This picture was taken on the morning of our last day in town. We got up early so that we could do a 2 hour hike before it was time to check out of our room. It was nice to be out when it was not too crowded. Easter was a busy time in Italy.

On a side note, this region is known for its pesto. We enjoyed all kinds of things - pesto pizza, pesto gnocci, pesto pasta...thinking of it makes me hungry.

My first sale!

2008-06-10T12:30:00.000-07:00

Someone wonderful has purchased 4 lovely photo note cards from my shop. I will be shipping them out soon. Hopefully, the momentum will continue. I will not let my hopes get up too high, though...we will just have to see how it goes.

Glass Ceiling

2008-06-08T19:09:00.001-07:00

This is the ceiling in the lobby of the Bellagio Las Vegas. The whole place is nicely decorated, but it is important to remember to look up so that you don't miss the best part. It is fun to watch people standing around and pointing up when they first arrive.

Rainbow at Sunset

2008-06-08T16:38:00.000-07:00

This bright red shot just goes to show that good can come out of what was otherwise not a great day. To keep a long story short, Wes and I had rented a car and were driving around the south island of New Zealand for about 10 days in January 2006. We had had pretty good weather most of the time and I was looking forward to the drive on our second to last day because this took us through the middle of the island - the guide book showed pictures of beautiful mountains reflected in stunning, glassy lakes. Just our luck - that day it rained and rained and rained - all you could see were clouds. No glassy lakes. No mountains at all. To top off the end of the drive, it was getting late and we were about to run out of gas when we realized the gas stations in New Zealand close. No 24-hour pay-at-the-pump options were jumping out at us and we started to worry where we were going to make it to our destination. Arriving in town on fumes, we were able to buy gas about 5 minutes before the last station closed. We checked into our hotel and then were off in the rain to find dinner.

Just as we were sitting down to eat, the rain let up and a bright rainbow could be seen over the water in the setting sun. It cast a red glow over the whole place. Everyone in the restaurant was getting up to take a look. Naturally, I grabbed my camera and snapped a few pictures. I was not sure it would capture the light correctly, but in the end it turned out alright. A nice end to the day.

Orange Flowers in Singapore

2008-06-08T16:34:00.001-07:00

Most of the time, pictures do not have a dramatic story behind them but just result from finding a small slice of beauty in everyday life. This is one of those pictures, and I have many many more with a similar background. In this particular case, Wes and I were walking through Singapore in October of last year. It is a very urban city, much like Hong Kong, but there was a good amount of landscaping to keep things looking nice. These orange flowers were a bush in the landscaping just up the road from the statue of Raffles. It caught my eye so I had to stop and take a photo.

Hong Kong Bird Market

2008-06-08T16:26:00.001-07:00

While Wes and I were living in Hong Kong, we spent most of our time on Hong Kong Island - that is where we lived, where I worked and where Wes went to school. We would often take Saturday trips to Kowloon, on the other side of Victoria Harbor, for shopping or just a little walking tour. One of our favorite places to visit, and to bring friends who came to see us, was the Bird Market. Because of the tiny apartments that most people in Hong Kong have, there is not a lot of room for pets. So, birds are a very popular pet for people to keep. The men at the market showed how much they loved their birds by bringing them out for a walk in small cages and often talking to them. It was not uncommon to see groups of men together with their pet birds, just passing the time on the weekend while the birds got some fresh air. The markets sold all kinds of birds, cages, and accessories. They even had live crickets to feed the larger birds. This picture is of one of the cages of birds waiting to be purchased. I felt like the one bird in the middle was looking at me as the calm in the middle of a hive of bird activity.

Faces of Bayon

2008-06-08T08:33:00.001-07:00

The Bayon temple, built around the year 1200, is close to Angkor Wat outside of Siem Reap, Cambodia. The most significant feature of the Bayon are the face towers that dominate the complex. This is a close up of one of the large faces there. It is not completely clear what expression they were trying for 800 years ago, but it looks to me like he is smiling just a little bit.

Ancient Angkor

2008-06-07T11:39:00.001-07:00

As promised, I have added some of our Cambodia trip pictures to the shop, as well as on flickr. I went with sepia on these because I think it best captured the feel of the place. I have also included the color versions above so that you can compare!

Oma's Garden

2008-06-06T20:38:00.001-07:00

My grandmother turned 104 last month and is still doing very well. She has always loved gardening, a passion that was strongly picked up by my mother and that my sister and I are trying to carry on. Even though she has people come care for the garden these days (under supervision, of course), the garden still reflects her influence. When I was visiting there in June of last year, the garden still looked beautiful even though the winter was coming on and there was a serious drought. I was impressed by the wide variety of blooms that were there - there are more photos to come in this series!

Floating Flowers Note Card

2008-06-06T20:31:00.001-07:00

This photo has a much less inspiring history. For Chinese New Year in 2007, Wes and I went to Siem Reap, Cambodia, to visit Angkor Wat and the surrounding temple complex. It was a wonderful trip - I am sure many of the photographs will be here soon. In our hotel's restaurant, there was a large container of floating flowers the entire time we were there. I could not say with certainty what they are, but I thought they looked pretty neat so I took this photo on our last day there.

Our first listing

2008-06-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

The first picture I chose to put up on the shop is of a lotus flower in the garden of a monastery outside of Hue, Vietnam in September 2007. We visited the monastery after spending the day on a motor bike tour of the countryside surrounding Hue. The weather was perfect and the pond full of lotus flowers was a center point of the tranquil garden. On the way to the garden, we passed by young apprentice monks doing their studies inside.

I am not sure what thoughts this image inspires in you, but for me it conjures memories of that day and the feeling of peace and tranquility of the quiet garden.

We have launched!

2008-06-06T19:57:00.000-07:00

I have started this blog to chronicle my efforts in the new etsy store (AWPhotography.etsy.com) that I set up to share some of the pictures that we have collected over the past few years. So far, Wes and I have enjoyed going through the pictures together to choose the ones that we like the best. As of today, we have our first official listing. I plan to put up a little back story for the pictures that end up in an item for the shop. We hope it goes well!!

Feel free to add your comments on how you think we are doing or if there are any kinds of photos you are looking for.