All About Cats

BESTeam Feature: Dragonfly Photography

2011-05-24T14:23:00.002-04:00

The Dragonfly Photography Etsy Shop is owned by Martha from Tacoma, WA, USA. Martha's photography is inspired by nature and the world around her.

Do your hands tell the story of your life...

If you buy something from Martha's shop this month, you can get a 30% discount on all items by using the Coupon Code EtsySaver30.

Pink

Martha states that each of her photographs have a story. You can read about her photography on her blog at Dragonfly Photography. You can visit her Dragonfly Photography Facebook Page, also.

Fern

Seeking the solitude that can be only found along a wooded path...

If you are looking for one of a kind and limited edition artisan jewelry, check out Martha's other Etsy Shop called Dancing Monkey Jewelry.

BESTeam Feature: Danizbeth

2011-05-13T14:26:00.002-04:00

I love the Danizabeth Etsy Shop. It is full of pictures of scenic treasures from years gone by. As a child, Danielle, the owner of Danizabeth, would visit salvage yards with her father. She would look for vehicle keys and saved the ones she found. After taking some salvage yard pictures as an adult, Danielle realized what had been missing in her artistic life. Now she expresses herself through her beautiful, nostalgic photographic images.

Pink and Pearls - 8 x 10 Matte Print

Packin' Up 2 - 8 x 10 Matte Print

Red Truck Series 8 - 8 x 10 Matte Print

Special Deluxe Car Emblem - 8 x 10 Matte Print

Red Covered Bridge - 11 x 14 Matte Print

Visit Danielle on her Danizabeth Blog and Facebook Page for more information about her and her artwork.

Check out the BESTeam Blog to find out more information about the team. New members are always welcome.

BESTeam Feature: Cerlandia

2011-05-05T15:10:00.002-04:00

In the Cerlandia Etsy Shop (chasingthenums) you can find unique handmade totes, bags, purses, as well as knit and crotcheted items. Sarah, the owner of the shop is a stay at home mom. In her spare time she enjoys knitting, crocheting and sewing. She has recently begun bringing silkscreening into her work with help from her friend Charles.

This Catcher in the Rye Tote is made from canvas and is lined with a heavyweight cotton. Sarah did the sewing. Charles did the silkscreening.

Here is an adorable Reusable snack and sandwich bag made from 100% cotton fabric on the outside. The inside lining is a laminated cotton that is BPA and PVC free. The lining is water, stain and mold resistant.

This is a Set of 4 Cloth Napkins with a bird and tree motif.

Next is a Set of 3 crocheted dish cloths made from 100% cotton. I love the colors. Maybe theses pretty dish clothes would make doing dishes fun :-)

Lastly, is a beautiful crocheted Black Clutch.

Visit the Cerlandia Blog to find out more about Sarah and her handcrafted items.

*** Check out the BESTeam Blog to find out more information about the team. New members are always welcome.***

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-04T09:00:00.001-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-27T09:00:00.001-04:00

BESTeam Feature: Your Daily Jewels

2011-04-26T17:33:00.006-04:00

This week my BESTeam feature is on Your Daily Jewels Etsy Shop which is owned by Nora.

RUBY DRUZY and CHERRY QUARTZ Stunning Pendant Necklace

10% of proceeds to be donated to the

Autism Society of America

By day, Nora is a physical therapist for children with disabilities. The type of therapy she practices is Hippotherapy which is therapy aided by horses. The rhythmic movement of horses has a therapeutic effect on the individuals being treated. As a reward system for her patients, Nora began making simple jewelry for them using stones and baubles she had been collecting since childhood. She would tell the children a story behind each bead or stone in their new jewelry. The children loved their gifts, and Nora discovered a new creative outlet for herself.

So SHINY it LOOKS WET Red Quartz Bracelet

Nora is a self-taught jeweler. Her free time is spent learning more about the trade by studying designs, materials and fabrication. She classifies her jewelry as glamorous handcrafted, colorful semi precious gemstone jewelry made with fine metals.

Cherry Bomb Bright Red, Round Quartz Earrings with Gold Vermei

After living 20 years in New York City, Nora now lives in the village of Nyack, NY which is about 22 miles from NYC. Nyack sits on the bank of the Hudson River.

Smooth Salmon Pink Czech Glass Drop Briolette Earrings Wrapped in Silver Wire

Nora has a second Etsy Shop called pj clark jewelry. This shop features modern and affordable jewelry which sells for under $40. Shipping to the US is free. Besides using new materials, Nora takes apart vintage jewelry to make new and unique modern pieces. The earrings below are made from golden Puffed Celluloid Sequins which are genuine antiques from France.

VERY VINTAGE French Golden Celluloid Hoop Earrings

Visit Your Daily Jewels Blog where you can read about other artisans, Hippotherapy and other things Nora likes. Follow Your Daily Jewels Facebook page to be entered in Nora's frequent giveaways.

Check out the BESTeam Blog to find out more information about the team. New members are always welcome.

Wordless Wednesday: I AM Going To Catch That Frog

2011-04-20T09:00:00.002-04:00

My cat, Jerry

BESTeam Feature: Redemption Art

2011-04-19T12:20:00.001-04:00

Redemption Art is the place to find vintage, hand made, and upcycled art from Hawaii. Connie, the owner of RedemptionArt, is retired from the corporate world. Now Connie gets to nurture her creative side.

Connie made this Vintage Hawaiian Hula Girl Outfit Newborn to Three Months Handmade from vintage material.

Here is a Handmade Hawaiian Puka Necklace 18 inches.

In Hawaii, puka shell necklaces were traditionally worn by people who were traveling by sea. The shells were thought to ensure a peaceful, safe voyage.

This is a Vintage Hawaiian Libby's Pineapple Juice Ad 1950's.

This 1960's style headband was made by Connie using vintage fabric. She got the pattern from a vintage headband. Now that is creative!

Do You Love Me Surfer Girl Spring Time Head Band

Here is a pair of oh-so-cute Artsy Coconut Girl Hand Made Earrings.

This Barbarian Princess Handwoven Upcycled Wristlet with Garnets was inspired by Princess Kaiulani who was Hawaii's last reigning princess.

There was a movie made about Princess Kaiulani in 2009 called Princess Kaiulani.

There are lots more wonderful items in the Redemption Art Etsy Shop, so head on over and check it out! You can also visit Connie's blog called Island Buzzy.

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The Boosting Etsy Shops Team (BESTeam) is a group of Etsy sellers dedicated to promoting each others Etsy Shops through our blogs, twitter and Facebook pages. New members are always welcome.

Update On New Family Member, Sunny

2011-04-17T15:54:00.003-04:00

On April 9th, I got a new kitten. He is about 4 1/2 months old, and his name is Sunny. Here is the first post about Sunny: New Family Member, Sunny.

My other cats, Jerry (7 years old) and Brady (4) took almost a week to give Sunny a lukewarm welcome to the family. Maggie (6) still is not impressed with her new brother, but Jerry and Brady have become hospitable. Brady will play with Sunny sometimes, however, Sunny tends to push playing a bit too far for Brady's liking.

About three times a day, Sunny uses our home as a speedway. He zooms from room to room at high speeds. There doesn't seem to be any set travel plan, it looks totally like random, sporadic mad dashes.

One thing Sunny started doing about five days ago, was sleeping on the cat condo. The first time I saw him on it, I wondered what Brady would do to him when he realized that the new guy was on his condo. Brady has always been the only cat to use it since I bought it. But...Brady has been a trooper about it. He doesn't seem to mind at all.

Sunny does have one habit that none of the other cats have ever had, which is to climb up my hanging clothes in the closet to get to the top shelf. I've never seen him do it, and I don't usually realize he is up there until boxes of things begin to land on the closet floor with big thuds.

Before Sunny arrived, I hadn't realized how quiet and peaceful my home had become. Now I am reminded ever day about how quickly things can change, and how nice it can be to change things up a bit.

Friday Finds: Cat Pouches

2011-04-15T14:19:00.006-04:00

Today I searched Etsy for handmade cat pouches. There were 971 items that came up. Of course, I didn't check out all 971 cat pouches. I don't have that much time on my hands :-0 I did, however search through quite a few pages, and picked out the items below.

Easter is coming up fast. Any one of these handcrafted items would look great in an Easter basket. After your mother, sister, wife, daughter, etc. got finished eating all the goodies in the basket, they would be left with a keepsake that they could use for years to come. They might forget what candies you got them, but they wouldn't forget the handmade gift that was included. What could be better than that?

First up is a Perfect Little Wristlet and Credit Card Holder - Cats And Coffee by Caprimo Designs.

In this shop, you can find wristlets, hipsters, gadget cases and disc holders. Very nice shop!

Next is this Button Flap Closure Novelty Clutch Bag from BeautifulSeams. This shop offers quilted items, clutch bags, totes, and more. Free shipping to US on all items.

While visiting this shop, be sure to check out the beautiful Quilted Rag Basket. It is amazing!

Here is a iPhone 3G 4G iPod iTouch Android Droid Blackberry Cell Phone Pouch Case Sleeve Padded in Siamese Cats on Pink by Steel Dahlia.

In this shop you can find lots of cell phone and Blackberry cases, sleeves and cozys.

This case would make the perfect Mother's Day Present for me!!!! I think I will send the link to my adult kids and just write, "Isn't this the cutest iPhone case you've ever seen?" Maybe one of them will get the hint :-)

Here is a HELP Japan: Vintage Japanese Kimono Cat (Kitty) Pouch. At Kazue West you can find handmade handbags and accessories.

50% of all sales will be donated to the JapanEarthquake/Tsunami: Emergency Support for Affected Children.

Next up is this Pocket Mirror - Sunshine Kittens velvet pouch included by Kikichoo. Buy 3 pocket mirrors, get the 4th free!

This shop offers original artwork on canvas, framed and on button badges.

The artist, Loraine, has 5 cats; Cherry, Poppy, Ruby, Mimi, and Mr Hector.

And last is a Ewesful Pouch - Fushia Kitty by Ewenique Essentials. All items are made with Ewe in mind!

Debbie, the owner of Ewenique Essentials makes and sells quilted and knitted items, as well as soap.

Thanks for stopping by and viewing this weeks Friday Cat Finds. You are welcome back next week to see what I pick out then. Have a great weekend!

BESTeam Feature: Alexander's Designs

2011-04-13T15:04:00.003-04:00

Alexander's Designs is run by a wife and husband team, Jenny and Skip Alexander. They are a self employed couple who work construction together and make jewelry together. Their handcrafted jewelry includes a unique blend of Swarovski Crystals, lamp work beads, glass beads, semi-precious gemstones, sterling silver, fine silver, pewter, and gold.

Ugly Glass is a line of glass Jenny and Skip create in their home studio. The process for making Ugly Glass starts with torching the glass, and then it is put into a special blanket to cool. Next it is annealed in a Kiln to relieve internal stresses. The annealing process significantly increases the strength of the glass.

Here is a Double Amber Purple Blob One Of of A Kind Ugly Glass Pendant filled with swirls of many beautiful colors.

This is an Ugly Glass Borosilicate Glass Captured Flower Pendant from Skips Captured Flower Series.

There are lots more Ugly Glass pendants in the shop. Each one is unique and beautiful.

Alexander's Designs also offers customized photo pendants like the one below. Simply send Jenny a photo, and she will create a decal from it that she then fires onto a glass pendant. These would make wonderful gifts!

Sepia Photo Pendant - Customizable

Jenny and Skip also make Etched Copper Pendants. The one below is a hand drawn flower made from one of Jenny's sketches.

Etched Copper Pendant

I hope you have enjoyed learning a bit of the processes that go into making the jewelry created by Jenny and Skip. The jewelry itself is stunning, but learning a bit about how it is created, makes me appreciate the jewelry at Alexander's Designs that much more.

You can sign up for Alexander's Designs Mailing List to receive special sales information and coupon codes.

Jenny and Skip have three other shops: Classically Simple, Beadery Destash and Ugly Glass. You can also find Jenny and Skip at: Alexander's Designs Blog, Alexander's Designs Website and Alexander's Designs Facebook Page.

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The Boosting Etsy Shops Team (BESTeam) is a group of Etsy sellers dedicated to promoting each others Etsy Shops through our blogs, twitter and Facebook pages. New members are always welcome.

Wordless Wednesday: Busy Knitting

2011-04-13T09:00:00.001-04:00

Tigger

New Family Member, Sunny

2011-04-09T12:50:00.000-04:00

I answered an add on craigslist for a four month old kitten that was rescued from a barn. Last evening I went to see the kitten and fell in love with him immediately. Needless to say, I brought him home with me.

He has big paws, purrs a lot, and loves to be held and petted. Last evening he check his new home out over and over again. Once in awhile he would take a few minutes rest, then went right back to exploring.

Sunny is sweet and friendly. Last night, he slept on the bed with me curled up to my head.... well, part of the night he did that, the other part of the night he stayed pretty much in the same place, except that he was playing.

Jerry, Maggie and Brady (my other cats) have not welcomed him into the family yet, but that is to be expected. Probably by tomorrow Sunny and Brady will be running around together playing. Brady is four years old, but a kitten at heart.

BESTeam Feature: MsFormaldehyde

2011-04-06T15:47:00.002-04:00

This week I am featuring the MsFormaldehyde Etsy Shop. This shop is owned by Kelly from San Diego, California where she was born and raised. Kelly loves everything Tiki, Tiki Oasis, Polynesian, Hawaiian and Day of the Dead. She offers an array of creative items like carved skulls, sugar skulls, Gothic, Voodoo, glitter fashion, Lowbrow, Lolita Pinup, Hello Kitty and Dita Burlesque accessories.

Tropical green cream skull paradise orchid tiki luau barrette

Hot pink feather fascinator, rhinestone, pink guinea feather, clip, headband

Skull plumeria barrettes

Kelly offers accessories for weddings like the White Gardenia Bridal Head Piece below. She does wedding flowers for all types of weddings.

White Gardenia, Wedding, Bridal head piece, accented with guinea feathers, Offbeat wedding

Kelly, also, offers lots of Day of the Dead items. The Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is a yearly celebration observed on November 2. On this day the deceased are remembered by family and friends. The celebration often consists of parties, visiting the grave of the loved one, and the building of private altars to honor the deceased.

Day of the dead skull earrings

Green day of the dead skull, white ranunculus flower, green feather fascinator

You can also find Kelly on her MsFormaldehyde blog, and her MsFormaldehyde Facebook Page.

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The Boosting Etsy Shops Team (BESTeam) is a group of Etsy sellers dedicated to promoting each others Etsy Shops through their blogs, twitter and Facebook pages. New members are always welcome.

Wordless Wednesday: Zonked

2011-04-06T09:00:00.000-04:00

My daughter's cat, Maji

BESTeam Feature: Plum Beadacious

2011-03-30T17:33:00.004-04:00

This week I am featuring the Plum Beadacious Etsy Shop which offers handmade necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, hair accessories and lanyards.

Here is a Brown Yellow Red White Polymer Clay Beaded Lanyard ID Badge.

There are more beautiful Lanyards in the shop, so if you are looking for one, you are sure to find one you just can't live without :-)

Plum Beadacious is owned by LeAllyson Meyers from Severance Colorado. By day, LeAllyson works in corporate America as a clinic compliance and risk analyst. In the evening and on weekends, LeAllyson creates her beautiful beaded jewelry. She has been making beaded jewelry for about seven years, and has been selling it for five.

Here is a gorgeous pair of Botswana Agate Gemstone Earrings.

Check out the matching Brown and Black Beaded Lanyard ID Badge Magnetic Clasp.

This is an Antiqued Brass Flower Cuff Bracelet Buttercream Yellow.

I saved my favorite for last, a Dragonfly Necklace, Crystals, Flowers.

You can find out more about LeAllyson and her jewelry on her Beadaciously Yours Blog and her Plum Beadacious Website. She also has a Plum Beadacious Facebook Page.

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The Boosting Etsy Shops Team (BESTeam) is a group of Etsy sellers dedicated to promoting each others Etsy Shops through their blogs, twitter and Facebook pages. New members are always welcome.

Wordless Wednesday: Who Says I'm Not Human?

2011-03-30T09:00:00.003-04:00

Ducky, my daughter's cat.

Blogging Help From A Friend

2011-03-25T18:34:00.003-04:00

Until today, I've always had my page tabs on the side bar because every time I put them at the top of the blog like they are now, not all of the page titles showed up. A friend of mine, Karen, helped me fix my template today so that I could have my page tabs where I wanted them.

I call Karen Super Woman. She is absolutely amazing at knowing just what to do to fix something, and she is always helping people.

Karen is an administrator of the Boosting Etsy Shops Team (BESTeam) to which I belong. She works long hours for the team, and still finds time for a personal life. She also finds time for her Mystic Wynd Etsy Shop where she sells stunning handmade jewelry.

I love this new necklace in her shop.

Pink Rose Floral Glass w Pearl Necklace - Claire

Thank you Karen for all the hard work you do for the BESTeam and for being a great friend!

Friday Cat Finds: Fish

2011-03-25T15:42:00.001-04:00

Today I searched for "cat" and "fish" on Etsy. Lots and lots of great listings came up, but I managed to narrow my selections down to six to show you.

Maneki Neko Lucky Siamese Cat with Koi Fish ACEO Print

by 3 Cats Graphics

Pet CAT ID Tags - PussKat / Fishy Skeleton - Hand Engraved - Buy 2 get 3rd Tag FREE

by SteksPets

Satisfied Cat - print of mixed media painting

by The Gretchen Show

Kitty Pouch

by Plaid Poni Designs

WHO ME - Limited Edition print 7 by 9 inch - Cats with attitude

by Cat-alogue Cats With Attitude

Pirate Cat Blank Note Card

by Patti Backer

I hope you have enjoyed today's Friday Cat Finds. It was a lot of fun searching for cats and fish :-) Every time I search for cat items to share with you, I am amazed at how many talented artists and crafts people there are on Etsy.

Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Wordless Wednesday: Thanks For Being My Pillow

2011-03-23T09:00:00.003-04:00

My Cats, Morris and Jerry

(Morris died in Dec. 2009)

BESTeam Feature: Las Flores del Sur

2011-03-20T19:40:00.005-04:00

Marisa, owner of Las Flores del Sur Etsy Shop, is a graphic and web designer. She is from Buenos Aires, but now lives in Montevideo, Uruguay. Marisa ships worldwide, and most of the items in her shop are currently being offered with free shipping. Las Flores del Sur translated from Spanish to English, means "Flowers from the south."

Here are some handmade items you can find in Las Flores del Sur (floresdelsur).

2 Purple-Bordeaux Rolled Ribbon Hair Pins - Free Shipping

Fabric Rosette Pin in Turquoise, Brown, Gray and White - Free Shipping

On Sale 3 Little Bouquet Pins - Colors of your choice - Free Shipping

6 Recycled Wooden Buttons

Marisa has a second shop, also called Las Flores del Sur (lasfloresdelsur), where you can find "handmade Jewelry for everyone."

Other places to find Las Flores del Sur:
Las Flores del Sur Blog
Las Flores del Sur Facebook page
Las Flores del Sur twitter page

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The Boosting Etsy Shops Team (BESTeam) is a group of Etsy sellers dedicated to promoting each others Etsy Shops through our blogs, twitter and Facebook pages. New members are always welcome.

Super Moon Last Night

2011-03-20T13:22:00.000-04:00

Last night the moon was a "Super Moon" in that it was a full moon and was at its closest orbit to the Earth.

This is a picture of the "Super Moon" that my son took last night around 10:00.

The Elle's Beads Blog: Weekly BEST: All About Cats

2011-03-19T14:13:00.000-04:00

The Elle's Beads Blog: Weekly BEST: All About Cats

Friday Cat Finds: Sun Catchers

2011-03-18T17:16:00.000-04:00

I love sun catchers, and I found some beautiful ones on Etsy today. These sun catchers make me think of bright, sunny, warm, summer days.

Suncatcher Cat

by Big Horse Creek Gallery

Stained Glass Suncatcher - Cat and Goldfish

by Fleeting Stillness

Butterscotch Peeking Cat Stained Glass Panel

by Good Grief Glass

Green Cat

by SimplySammi

Life-Sized Stained Glass Window Kitty - Customizable

by Fine Art And Stained Glass by Tina Steenerson

Attack Cat

by Sierra Creations

What did I tell you? Aren't they beautiful?

Designing Cat Toys For My Etsy Shop

2011-03-18T12:07:00.001-04:00

It is rewarding to design my own cat toys, especially when I get the design to the point that I can start making and selling them. Sometimes, however, the design process takes a long time. The problem that most often arises is trying to simplify something that usually has a lot of detail, like a witch for Halloween or a Santa for Christmas. I haven't come up with a design for either one of these yet. Each item I design needs to be simple without a lot of detail work so that I can make them fairly quickly and can sell them for a price potential customers would be willing to pay.

Dora The Duckling Organic Catnip Bell Cat Toy

A couple of months ago, I decided I wanted to design a duck. This should have been easy, but each time I sat down with a piece of paper and pencil, I couldn't create a duck that I was happy with. So, off and on, for two months, I've been thinking about how to make a duck. Then two days ago it just came to me. I ran to get a piece of paper and pencil, and immediately drew up a duck. A few minutes later I was cutting out the fabric, and then sewing the little duckling together. Dora pictured above, is the result. Darwin, below, is the second duckling I've made.

Darwin The Duckling Organic Catnip Bell Cat Toy

Now I can challenge myself with figuring out how to make a cute, simple witch :-) After that, I'll try to tackle Santa. It may seem silly to be thinking about witches and Santa in March when spring is about to arrive, but I just never know how long the process is going to take.

Wordless Wednesday: Yes... I know... I'm Gorgeous

2011-03-16T09:00:00.002-04:00

Kyli, A Friend's Cat

Color Of The Day Cat Picks: Blue

2011-03-15T20:03:00.002-04:00

Today I searched on Etsy for "blue" and "cat." Here are the items that came up that I've selected to share with you.

Twilight Tabby Cat Print

By AliceinParis

Linen Kitty Pillow

Blue Kitty

White Kitten Primitive in Gold Fill Wire Pendant OOAK

A Tabby Cat Arts

Cats Night Out Watch in Gold and Silver (Unisex)

Whimsical Watches

Ocean Tabby

AliceinParis

BESTeam Feature: Designs by M'Ayanna

2011-03-13T19:10:00.000-04:00

I live in Vermont where winter is still going strong. Snow every where! But, the thing about mid-March is that I know the long, cold winter will soon be over. So when I visited the shop I am featuring this week, Designs by M'Ayanna, I was automatically drawn to some of the jewelry that made me think of spring and the beach. The fashion jewelry in this shop is beautiful, and another great thing is that DesignsbyMayanna offers plus size jewelry.

Coral Concerto Necklace - Movement Number One

Designs by M'Ayanna is owned by Patrice Kelly from Chicago, Illinois. Patrice began making jewelry because her daughter, Ayanna, was interested in it. Ayanna soon lost interest in jewelry making, but by that time, Patrice was hooked. The shop name is short for Mommy and Ayanna. Ayanna's roll now is to critique all of Patrice's designs. If Ayanna doesn't like something, Patrice doesn't sell it.

Madelyn Necklace

The Designs by M'Ayanna Blog offers lots of helpful tips for other jewelry sellers. Here are two examples: Jewelry Photo Editing Tips for Professional Results and Sell Your Jewelry And Make Money At Craft Shows. There are also tutorials like this one, How To Make Paper Jewelry. I think I will give this tutorial a try.

Hearts In A Web Earrings

You can also visit Designs by M'Ayanna on Facebook and twitter.

Kiwi Stone Wristwatch

Visit Designs by M'Ayanna and pick out your favorite items! But be prepared that it might be difficult to choose because all the jewelry is beautiful :-)

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The Boosting Etsy Shops Team (BESTeam) is a group of Etsy sellers dedicated to promoting each others Etsy Shops through our blogs, twitter and Facebook pages. New members are always welcome.

Sunday Poem: A Kitten

2011-03-13T09:00:00.001-04:00

A Kitten

He's nothing much but fur
And two round eyes of blue,
He has a giant purr
And a midget mew.
He darts and pats the air,
He starts and cocks his ear,
When there is nothing there
For him to see and hear.
He runs around in rings,
But why we cannot tell;
With sideways leaps he springs
At things invisible -
Then half-way through a leap
His startled eyeballs close,
And he drops off to sleep With one paw on his nose.

Eleanor Farjeon

Friday Cat Finds: Pillows

2011-03-11T18:40:00.005-05:00

Last week I did not post my Friday Cat Finds because my computer hiccuped and I lost the links of all the wonderful items I had picked out.

This week I have picked out cat pillows. I found lots of cat pillows on Etsy, and had a difficult time making myself dwindle my favorites down to six. I know... I say that every week :-) and every week it is true.

First up is a Dove Gray Velvet Cat. If you like this pillow, you will love Bell Studios because there are lots more of these velvet cats to choose from in beautiful colors. So cute!

Here is Oliver the Cat Double-sided Pillow by Olive Owl Art. This pillow is 16" square and shows the silhouette of a kitty playing with a ball of yarn. The other side of the pillow shows the silhouette of a cat in mid-stride.

This next 16" square Pillow has blocks of funky kitties, and comes from the annedidit Etsy Shop. I love the colors in this pillow.

I have a soft spot for Primitive items, and the Northern Lodge has quite a few primative cat pillows. This one is called Kitty love-upcycled wool kitty pillow. If you like Primitive, you've got to check this shop out!

Up next is a Handcrafted Fancy Retro Cat Linen Pillow by amdeschaine. The detail that went into making this pillow is amazing. For instance, the collar is made of clear beads with a beaded sequin in the center.

This is a Primitive Wool Felted Appliqued Cat Pillow by MountainMommaDesigns. The pillow shows cats growing out of a pot, and the saying on the pot reads "Bloom Where You're Planted!"

Hope you stop by next Friday to see what kitty items I find then.

BESTeam Feature: Cookala's Pretty Things

2011-03-10T10:16:00.009-05:00

Today I am featuring Cookala's Pretty Things which sells fashion jewelry, including Pandora Style, Lampwork, Steampunk, Vintage and hand forged jewelry. Eileen, the owner of this shop, loves to express herself through her jewelry making, as well as through other creative avenues.

One of the styles of jewelry that Eileen offers is Pandora which is all the rage right now. Pandora jewelry is a charm bracelet and necklace system in which you can interchange charms.

Here is Pandora Style Bracelet PB072 which includes five lampwork beads and six barrel spacer metal beads.

If you already have a Pandora style bracelet and are looking for more charms, you can find lots of them in this shop. Here is a Pandora Style Blue Lampwork Heart Bead Charm.

Now on to non-Pandora jewelry in Cookala's Pretty Things Etsy Shop.

This green Chunky Charm Bracelet will catch the light when it moves, giving the bracelet a sparkling look. I love the greens in this bracelet.

Check out this stunning Custom Made OOAK Mixed Metals and Lampwork Disk Necklace. This is one of my favorite pieces in the shop :-)

You can also viist Eileen's two blogs, Cookalas House Of Cards on Etsy.com and Cheesecloth Moon.

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The Boosting Etsy Shops Team (BESTeam) is a group of Etsy sellers dedicated to promoting each others Etsy Shops through our blogs, twitter and Facebook pages. New members are always welcome.

Wordless Wednesday: Gimme That Camera Strap

2011-03-09T09:00:00.002-05:00

My cats: Morris in the background (who has since passed away) and Brady

Special Order: Fleece Knitting Crocheting Craft Bags

2011-03-07T12:00:00.006-05:00

Last week I got a special order through my All About Cats Etsy Shop. Yesterday I completed the order. The order consisted of a lot of cat toys and seven craft bags. Below are the craft bags.

Fleece Knitting Crocheting Craft Bags

These fleece craft bags are perfect for knitting, crocheting, or sewing projects.. The bags have round bottoms, and drawstring closures at the top. The handles are made out of crocheted yarn. Inside the bags are four large fleece pockets that extend around the entire width of the bags. The craft bags are machine washable and dryable. The bags measure approximately 13 1/2" high and 8" in diameter. Each of the four pockets measure approximately 6" high by 7" wide. The handles are approximately 11" long.

This was the biggest order I've ever had through Etsy :-)

Vermont Is Having A Snow Day

2011-03-07T11:09:00.004-05:00

Vermont is snowed in today. Almost all schools are canceled, and most work places as well. A lot of people are without power, and one whole town is without water. I am lucky where I live because we rarely lose power. I am also lucky that I don't have to go anywhere today.

Here is a picture of my deck railings.

This is a picture of my back yard over the railings.

And here is a picture of my wind chimes with a large icicle on them.

It is a great day to stay home and make catnip toys for my Etsy Shop :-) As long as I don't lose power, that is.

Sunday Poem: Cat Hair

2011-03-06T09:00:00.001-05:00

Cat Hair

Cat hair on the bedspread,
Cat hair on the chair.

Cat hair in the casserole,
Cat hair EVERYWHERE

Cat hair on my best coat,
Even on the mouse!

You live and eat and breathe cat hair,
When cats live in your house.

Author Unknown

BESTeam Feature: Creativity Bugs

2011-03-02T22:09:00.004-05:00

I love to receive special cards, cards that I know a lot of thought went into picking them out. These are the cards that I save. They go into my treasure box so I can take them out once in awhile to see and read again. When it comes time for me to select a card for someone else, I look for that special card.... The one that says I got this especially for you because you are special to me.

The shop I am featuring today, Creativity Bugs, is a perfect place to pick out that special card. Creativity Bugs is run by two sisters, Sandy and Sue from Wauconda, Illinois. Sandy and Sue started out making cards for family and friends, and have since turned it into a business. Their motto is "lovingly creating items for others to love and cherish". To read more about Sandy and Sue, visit there Etsy Profile Page.

I love how the butterfly's wings come up off the paper on this Butterfly Thank You Card .

Want to give someone a card just to say "I'm thinking of you"? Here is a Gold Burgundy Green Firefly Flower Blank Card that would be perfect for that.

This Owl Thank You Card is so cute! It is my personal favorite!

This next card, with a burgundy ribbon and three dainty flowers, is called Flowers Thank You - Blank Card.

Check out Sandy and Sue's Creativity Bug Blog where you can find crafting ideas, projects, reviews, recipes, and more.

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The Boosting Etsy Shops Team (BESTeam) is a group of Etsy sellers dedicated to promoting each others Etsy Shops through our blogs, twitter and Facebook pages. New members are always welcome.

Wordless Wednesday: Would One Of You Humans Like To Shovel Me Out?

2011-03-02T09:00:00.002-05:00

My daughter's dog, Nikita

Sunday Poem: Cats Are Wonderful Friends

2011-02-27T09:00:00.003-05:00

Cats Are Wonderful Friends

Gentle eyes that see so much,
paws that have the quiet touch,
Purrs to signal "all is well"
and show more love than words could tell.
Graceful movements touched with pride,
a calming presence by our side
A friendship that takes time to grow
Small wonder why we love them so.

Author Unknown

New Item In My Shop Today

2011-02-26T15:01:00.000-05:00

This is Fran The Green Frog Organic Catnip Bell Cat Toy. I've made frogs before, but I have changed the design a little bit.

Here is Fran's bright yellow belly and the underside of her legs. Her legs measure approximately 1 1/2" long.

Fran is filled with organic catnip, two bells encased in fleece, and fiberfill. She measures approximately 3" front to back and 2 3/4" across her belly.

Feel free to hop on over to my All About Cats Etsy Shop to pick out a handmade toy for your kitty :-)

BESTeam Feature: Elle's Beads

2011-02-25T20:15:00.003-05:00

Today I am featuring Elle's Beads Etsy Shop which offers one-of-a-kind, funky handmade jewelry. The owner, and creator of the beautiful jewelry, is Elle from Raleigh, North Carolina. Elle loves to find recycled findings from past eras to create her one-of-a-kind jewelry and accessories. In addition to the eras gone by findings, she uses brightly colored items from modern day. To read more about Elle, visit her Etsy Profile Page.

Here are the items I have picked out to show you from Elle's Beads. I had a difficult time picking out just five items!

These oh-so-cute Spring Tweety Bird Brass and Blue Czech Glass Beaded Earrings are made using tweety bird etched brass charms and aquamarine Czech glass beads.

Next is a Bicone Swarovski Crystal Bisexual Pride Ring which has an adjustable silver plated loop ring.

These stunning earrings are called Vintage Inspired Blue Dangle Earrings.

Next is a Musical Notes - Resin-Filled Brass Charm Necklace made from a yellowed print of musical notes. So creative!

Up last, is a Paisley Shade of Orange Fabric Flower Brooch with Vintage Button.

You can visit The Elle's Beads Blog to find out more about Elle and read her posts on handmade finds and tips and tools for artisans. She also posts updates to her Elle's Beads Etsy Shop and writes BESTeam features.
Also visit her Elle's Beads Facebook Page and Elle Carmon twitter Page.
-------------------------

The Boosting Etsy Shops Team (BESTeam) is a group of Etsy sellers dedicated to promoting each others Etsy Shops through our blogs, twitter and Facebook pages. New members are always welcome.

Friday Cat Finds: St Patrick's Day Green

2011-02-25T17:23:00.001-05:00

Today, I've picked out some cute St Patrick's Day items for you.

Green and White Pincushion Cat Murray

By Fat Cat Crafts

Isn't Murray adorable?

St. Patrick's Day Cat Shamrock Pin

By Artsy Clay

Handmade from polymer clay.

A shamrock with cat-atude!

St. Patricks Day Emerald Green Kitty Ornament

By The Crimson Cat

All the embroidery is done by hand!

Beautifully detailed work.

Irish Stalker Magnet

By All Things Marna

This would look soooo cute on a fridge!

St. Patrick's Day Manx Cat with Shamrocks

By Puddy Tat Glass

This is a Handmade Lampwork Bead

Lucky Kitty St. Patrick's Day Card

By Fyrefly Hollow

May The Luck O' The Irish Be Yours - Adorable!

St. Patrick's Day Shamrock Organic Catnip Bell Cat Toy

By All About Cats

Give your kitty some Irish Luck on St. Patrick's Day.

BESTeam Feature: Headpin Wear

2011-02-23T10:38:00.001-05:00

At Headpin Wear you can find jewelry made from a variety of high quality metals, crystals, and gemstones. This beautiful jewelry is designed to complement your features, fashion and your unique style!

Gemstone, Wood, and Swarovski Crystal, Copper Bracelet

Kazuri Bead, Swarovski Crystal, and Vintaj Brass Earrings

Sun Pendant designed with Sunstone, Opal Rondelles, and Copper Necklace

A Brass White Starfish combined with Pearls, Gemstones, Sterling Silver, and Brass

Other places to find Headpin Wear:
Headpin Wear Blog
Headpin Wear Facebook Page

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

The Boosting Etsy Shops Team (BESTeam) is a group of Etsy sellers dedicated to promoting each others Etsy Shops through our blogs, twitter and Facebook pages. We are a friendly bunch of people that share lots of helpful information. New members are always welcome.

Wordless Wednesday: Boxed In

2011-02-23T09:00:00.001-05:00

My cat, Jerry

New Item In My Shop Today

2011-02-21T17:37:00.000-05:00

This is Polly the Purple Mouse Organic Catnip Bell Cat Toy. I made her this morning and listed her this afternoon.

She is made from purple and pink fleece. Her eyes and nose are black felt. Her whiskers are made from black thread.

Polly is stuffed with potent organic catnip, two bells encased in fleece, and fiberfill.

She measures approximately 2" in diameter. Her tail measures approximately 7" long.

Here is Polly with her friend Marabell. Marabell found a home today!

Visit my All About Cats Etsy Shop for more handmade cats toys. There are cat themed items for humans as well.

Sunday Poem: Training Your Human

2011-02-20T09:00:00.006-05:00

Training Your Human

Training your human is a thankless task.
"Why bother with it?", some kittens may ask.
The fate of the world is the issue at hand,
as felines worldwide stake a claim for their land.
Make no bones about it, we cats own the joint.
We spray in the corners to drive home the point.

Some say the meek shall inherit the Earth,
But they've no fangs or claws, for what that's worth.
The cat is the ultimate species, you see,
We're poised to usurp man's authority.
These silly old humans who cannot play nice!
We cats are peaceful, we hate only mice.

Just what does training your human entail?
A host of fun things you must do without fail:
The sofas and rugs need a little makeover.
The La-Z-Boy's target for kitty takeover.
Then sleep on clean towels placed in the guest bath.
And make their best clothing a target of wrath.

Tear down those new drapes with a quick forceful tug.
Then tatter the pile of the new Berber rug.
And when they are sleeping, you block off their nose,
paw at their lower lip, chew on their toes.
Strut on the mantle. If they give any flack,
knock down their trophies and all bric-a-brac.

Shed on mom's new velvet black evening gown,
as she's headed out for a night on the town.
If they leave you home all alone for the night,
(Any human doing this can't be all that bright),
They're telling you by leaving, it's perfectly all right,
To totally redecorate 'til dawn's early light.
Knock over tables and chew up the fern.
Hurry, go faster! Soon, they'll return...

When they try to punish, you mustn't show concern.
(All attempts of discipline a pussycat should spurn.)
A snide flick of tail will convey no remorse,
but they will try harder to scold you, of course!
So, hide in the closet until they forget,
and then launch out just like an F-14 jet.

Tear up their ankle, their forearm, their hand,
then when they've had all the pain they can stand,
dart from the room while they call 9-1-1,
and celebrate victory: The felines have won!
To humans, however, the battle's begun,
as they steep in their anger and wish for a gun.

Pathetic and lumbering and clumsy to boot,
My friend, human dominance is really a hoot.
Take charge in your home. It's destiny, meow.
(The verses above have already told how.)
So sleep for an hour, and then grab some chow,
And then train your human, beginning right now.

Author Unknown

My cat, Jerry

Etsy Shop Of The Day: Storybook Design

2011-02-19T14:41:00.000-05:00

When I saw these birdhouses, I just said WOW! They are so darn cute!!! They come from the Storybook Design Etsy Shop which offers gifts for the fairytale home and garden.

Black and White Cat Birdhouse

Yellow Tabby Cat Birdhouse

Electric Blue Cat Birdhouse

Gray Tabby Cat Birdhouse (back view)

Aren't they adorable? If you want to make your own cat birdhouse, you can buy the plans from Storybook Design.

Siamese Cat Birdhouse Plan and Templates

All about Cats! Treasury by Moussycrafts

2011-02-19T14:08:00.000-05:00

'All about Cats!' by Moussycrafts

Do you love cats as much as I love them? :D

HAPPY FRIENDS . big siz... catshome $60.00	PDF Pattern Kitty Kat C... Bulldogz $4.00	A4 Cat Print - Goro kushun55 $15.00	Cute kitty focal bead emilystark $15.00
Ceramic Cat Dish catfishcorner $	Stained Glass Pink Kitt... livingglassart $25.00	IZZY orange tabby kitty... 9kitties $8.00	Childrens Black Cat Bac... agoodlifedesig... $25.00
Egyptian Cat Bank antiquarium $18.00	8 Tibetan Silver Charms... goshen $2.49	Vintage photo notecard ... wordmermaid1 $5.00	Amigurumi cat toy &quot... Moussycrafts $24.00
Vintage Crazy Calico Ca... JodysVintage $13.50	Cute Kitty soft toy cat... DIYFluffies $9.00	Vintage Cat Brooch Silv... ruthsattic $12.00	2 small Cat face beads srckat $12.00

Treasury tool is sponsored by Lazzia.com A/B image testing.

BESTeam Feature: Jewelry By Jaynemarie

2011-02-17T13:26:00.003-05:00

Jewelry By Jaynemarie offers artisan jewelry created with precious gems, metals and crystals. Jaynemarie will also take special orders for bridal jewelry and other fine jewelry, working with you to match any wedding colors and other special occasion colors.

Here is what I have picked out for you today, but be sure to visit Jewelry By Jaynemarie to choose your favorite pieces of exquisite jewelry.

Amethyst Teardrop Necklace

Sterling Silver Amethyst Filigree Earrings

Labrodite and Peridot Filigree Pendant

Blue Silver Rain Earrings

And these are just some of my favorites! Jewelry By Jaynemarie is filled with lots more breathtaking jewelry.

Other places you can find Jaynemarie:
Jewelry By Jaynemarie Blog
Jewelry By Jaynemarie Facebook Page
Jewelry By Jaynemarie on twitter

The Boosting Etsy Shops Team (BESTeam) is a group of Etsy sellers dedicated to promoting each others Etsy Shops through our blogs, twitter and Facebook pages. We are a friendly bunch of people that share lots of helpful information. New members are always welcome.

Wordless Wednesday: Oops... I thought It Was Spring Already

2011-02-16T09:00:00.006-05:00

Frog On Ice

Sunday Poem: I'm Only a Cat

2011-02-13T09:00:00.002-05:00

I'm Only a Cat

I'm only a cat,
and I stay in my place...
Up there on your chair,
on your bed or your face!

I'm only a cat,
and I don't finick much...
I'm happy with cream
and anchovies and such!

I'm only a cat,
and we'll get along fine...
As long as you know
I'm not yours... you're all mine!

Author Unknown

Abbie

Friday Cat Finds: Earrings

2011-02-11T10:15:00.001-05:00

Today I've picked out some cute cat earrings to share with you.

First up is Kitty Portrait Earrings no.3 - antiqued silver by Sora. The abalone shell cats sit atop a leaf edged antiqued silver plated frame with hand crafted oxidized sterling silver wire.

These are Swirling Smokey Quartz Cat Earrings from Chickadee Jewelry.

Next is Here Kitty Kitty Earrings from Bracelets and More by Doreen.

These adorable Cat Earrings are by chatnoir77.

Last is Cat earrings in lavender by Black Cat Queen.

Stop back next Friday for more cat finds from talented artists who sell on Etsy.

Color Of The Day Cat Picks: Green

2011-02-10T16:30:00.005-05:00

Today I searched Etsy for green cat items. I picked green because I am sick of all the white snow outside :-0 I'm ready for green grass again! Here are some of the green things I found.

Adjustable Cat Collar With Bell - Forest Paisley

By Amanda Brewer Textiles

Recycled Soda Can Art Mountain Dew Cat Magnet

By o0oCuppyCakeo0o

Personalized Handpainted Door Sign For Children's Room

By Tammnoony

I'm a Cat Person Brooch

By The Banished Bubu Crafts

kitty love - hand painted pendant necklace - original art

By mettaville

Meow. Cats and Yarn Cotton Fabric Purse with Metal Frame (Light Green)

By Cotton Times

Here's hoping for an early spring!

BESTeam Feature: You Are My Sunshine

2011-02-09T16:38:00.001-05:00

You Are My Sunshine Etsy Shop offers handmade fabric flower brooches, fabric flower hair pins, rings, earrings, bracelets and statement necklaces in a rainbow of colors to bring sunshine to your day!

Nina, the owner of You Are My Sunshine, got the name for her shop from a nursery rhyme called "You Are My Sunshine" that she used to sing to her sons when they were little.

Here is a beautiful pair of Bouquet Earrings made from vibrant pink glass flowers and vintage findings. I love these earrings!

Next is two Recycled Fabric Floral Hair Pins Fairy Pink with Pink Seed Beads.

And here is a lovely Shabby Roses Necklace with Frosted Pink Beads.

This versatile beauty is a Fairy Pink Brooch, Corsage, Choker and Belt Accessory All In One.

For vintage goodies, you can visit Nina's other Etsy Shop: My Sunshine, Vintage. She has a blog, nina in florida, which she calls her tiny voice, her diary, and her turn to speak. You can also visit Nina's twitter page.

Wordless Wednesday: Watch Where You Are Driving

2011-02-09T09:00:00.001-05:00

My daughter's Iguana, Simon

Made It Myself Monday: Wooden Plaques

2011-02-07T09:00:00.002-05:00

For my birthday a few years ago I was given a scroll saw. My plan was to cut out shapes for making wood plaques. Making wood plaques was something I really wanted to do, and I thought that I would make lots of them, and even sell some on Etsy.

Making the plaques with the scroll saw worked fine. The problem that arose was when I tried to add the words to the plaques. I never felt that my letters looked quite right, and it was difficult to make the words fit into the space I had allotted for them. So I got discouraged.

I was able to cut out small shapes with the scroll saw, like the face above, and the panties on the below plaque.

But I still was not happy with my writing. These three plaques are the only ones I've made so far. I do plan to try again, after I practice writing with paint.

Sunday Poem: Cats Sleep Anywhere

2011-02-06T09:00:00.009-05:00

Cats Sleep Anywhere

Cats sleep anywhere, any table, any chair.
Top of piano, window-ledge, in the middle, on the edge.
Open draw, empty shoe, anybody's lap will do.
Fitted in a cardboard box, in the cupboard with your frocks.
Anywhere! They don't care! Cats sleep anywhere.

Eleanor Farjeon (1881 - 1965)

My cat Jerry in the bathroom sink.

Friday Cat Finds: Magnets

2011-02-04T09:43:00.002-05:00

This week for my Friday Cat Finds I picked out magnets.

The Rose Handmade Magnet
by Majestik art

Yellow Kitty and Flowers Magnet
by Vincent Desjardins Illustrator

White/Orange Kitty Face Magnet
by Debbies Animal Plaques

Orange Cat With A Snowball Magnet
by Anastasia Crafts

Laminated Magnet - Beware of Cat Kisses
by Jen Niles Art

And I have three sets of cat magnets in my All About Cats Etsy Shop also :-)
Four Large Abstract Fabric Cat Magnets
Four Whimsical Fabric Cat Magnets
Four Cats In Teacups Fabric Cat Magnets

I love comments!

Wordless Wednesday: Oh, I Ate Too Much

2011-02-02T09:00:00.002-05:00

My cat, Jerry

BESTeam Feature: Sandy's Handmade Soaps & Things

2011-01-31T14:11:00.003-05:00

Sandy's Soaps are made from scratch using the old-fashioned cold process method of combining various oils, butters, and lye in just the right amounts to create a luxurious soap. All soaps are made in small batches for quality control. After curing for 4 - 6 weeks, each soap is hand-cut and individually packaged. You can be sure you are getting soap that is finely crafted and one-of-a-kind!

Oats & Honey Cold Processed Soap

There are molded soaps made using a combination of quality goat milk and shea butter bases, as well as oatmeal and honey bases. Molded soaps are great as party favors or wedding or shower favors.

Sunflower Molded Soap

You can even find whipped shea butter, lotion bars and lip balms.

Whipped Shea Butter

New items being featured are stitch markers and earrings. More are being added daily so check back often to see what is new!

Turtle Stitch Markers

So check out Sandy's Handmade Soaps & Things!
You can also visit The Adventures of SandyVern Blog.
And Sandy has another Etsy Shop called Simply Sandys Things.

Made It Myself Monday: Painting On Rocks

2011-01-31T09:00:00.001-05:00

Painting on rocks is a passion for me. It is also a process. The process starts with me going to a river or a brook to pick out rocks that I think "can become something." Sometimes I pick up a rock, and know immediately what I want to make from it. Other times I have no idea what the rock will become, but take it because I like the shape and size.

Once I get the rocks home, I thoroughly clean them with soap and water and a scrub brush. For a rock I already know what I want to paint on it, I can start the painting process right away, but for a rock that I don't yet know what it should become, there is another step. I have to put the rock somewhere and then look at it now and then. It could take hours, days or weeks before it comes to me what the rock will become. When it suddenly comes to me exactly what I should transform the rock into, then I can start the transformation process of painting it.

When I paint, I lose all track of time. This is the passion part of the process. I just paint and paint until the rock has become what I mentally envisioned it to be.

Painting on rocks is something I have loved to do for many years, and something I hope to be able to do for many more.

Sunday Poem: Black Cat

2011-01-30T09:00:00.005-05:00

Black Cat

A cat as black
As blackest coal
Is out upon
His midnight stroll,
His steps are soft,
His walk is slow,
His eyes are gold,
They flash and glow.
And so I run
And so I duck,
I do not need
His black-cat luck.

Author Unknown

(Cat in pic is my son's cat, Pearl)

Friday Cat Finds: For Your Valentine

2011-01-28T11:53:00.005-05:00

Valentines day is the day to show the special people in your life how you feel about them. If any of these special people are cat people, maybe you can find something for them from the below items I have chosen to feature today.

Here is a kitty with cat-itude! This is a matted print called Valentines Cranky Cat with heart flowers from Cranky Cats.

This is an Original Valentine Cat Hearts ACEO Painting Watercolor Ink Art by Amylyn Bihrle from Dream Catching Studio.

Here is sweet kitty called Standup Valentine's fancy Cat from Leslie's Variety Show.

This is a Valentine's Day Card - cats, hearts and men by Deborah Julian who makes cards and prints from her original art work.

Next is a Chocolate Valentine Kitty Pillow Cover from Designs By Nancy.

This oh-so-adorable Me and My Love - original watercolor painting is by MolMolly's Art.

I, personally, would much rather receive a handmade items like these, rather than a store bought card and a box of chocolates. A gift I could keep from someone who took the time to pick out especially for me, would mean so much more. And I really don't need the temptation that chocolates bring with them :-0

Wordless Wednesday: Aerobics

2011-01-26T09:00:00.003-05:00

My daughter's cat, Maji, who is the mother of my cat, Jerry.

Made It Myself Monday: Recycled Denim Purses

2011-01-24T16:21:00.001-05:00

Sometimes I go through phases of making a certain thing for a while, but then stop completely. That is what happened with making purses out of recycled bluejeans. It was probably in 2006 or 2007 when I made a few, and I haven't made any since.

Here are the two I still have, and still use once in awhile.

This is the front of one.

And this is the back.

Here is the second purse.

One of my son's friends gave me the jeans that I used to make the second purse. The three decorative trims you can see in the picture were around the bottom of the jeans legs. I think this was my favorite to make simply because of the trim.

I doubt if I will ever make any more jean purses. I'm completely over that phase of my life...LOL The only sewing I do on denim jeans now is when I have to patch a pair. My sewing machine never liked making the purses anyway. It let me know by all the frequent broken needles.

BESTeam Feature: ElizabethMD Jewelry Designs

2011-01-24T14:42:00.001-05:00

Elizabeth, the owner of ElizabethMD Jewelry Designs, offers unique, one of a kind jewelry for one of a kind women. She says, "You're one of a kind, so why shouldn't your jewelry be?"

Vintage Locket Necklace with Denim Lapis

Royal Blue Swarovski and Silver Wreath Pendant Necklace

Winter Blues Swarovski Fountain Necklace and Earring Set

Check out the ElizabethMD Jewelry Designs Etsy Shop for more beautiful one of a kind stylish jewelry.

Other places to find Elizabeth:
ElizabethMD Jewelry Designs Blog
ElizabethMD Jewelry Designs on Facebook
ElizabethMD on twitter

Friday Cat Finds: Ceramics

2011-01-21T16:19:00.000-05:00

I found lots of ceramic cats on Etsy. Here are some of my favorite.

Copper Cat Wooden Bead Necklace with Small Glass Beads

By Oconee River Pottery

Cats Rule Mug - Cat Lover Fantasy in Pink

By Big Sky Artworks

Kitty Food and Water Bowls - Eat, Drink, Be Kitty

By Say Your Piece!

Kit Tea Cat Mug in Mint

By LennyMud

Blue Cat Plate round dish handmade clay

By Firecat Pottery

BESTeam Feature: our home to yours

2011-01-19T18:05:00.003-05:00

This week I am featuring our home to yours where you can find handmade and vintage items. This shop is run by a mom and daughter team. Debbi is the mom, and Amanda is the daughter. Debbi is a "professional" mother. Art is her stress reliever, and her favorite hobby. Amanda is currently a stay at home mom of a toddler. She has a Masters Degree in Graphic Design.

Here is a vintage blue hat with rhinestone bow.

This is a limited time only handmade yellow-purple zippered pouch.

I love the colors in this handmade rainbow lilac wavy scarf.

Here is a handmade 2 rosette headband blue green and grey.

Love the colors in this handmade pink and purple fuzzy scarf, too.

Other places you can find Debbi and Amanda:
our home to yours blog
Our Home To Yours Facebook Page
our home to yours on twitter
Their other Etsy Shop, Vintage Vinyls

Wordless Wednesday: My What A Long Tongue You Have

2011-01-19T09:00:00.002-05:00

My cat, Maggie.

Made It Myself Monday: Scrabble Tile Pendants

2011-01-17T14:12:00.002-05:00

This is the first post in the blog post series "Made It Myself Monday." Each Monday I will write about a craft I have tried, and at the end of the post I will write whether or not it is a craft I want to continue doing.

I love crafts and often branch out and try different things. Since I am detailed oriented, I can be very critical of my own creations. If I see flaws in my work, then no one else will ever see what I made. So when I try something new, I have this drive to make at least one item that passes my own inspection. Once I have done that, then I make the decision as to whether or not I want to make more. Sometimes I do want to keep going, and other times once is enough.

The latest thing I've tried is Scrabble Tile Pendants. I made a few duds, but finally came up with one that I attached to a black cord and actually wear now and then. Here it is :-)

I did research on the web before buying the supplies. There are lots of great "how to" sites that walk you through the process. So I read them, and then went and bought the supplies that I thought would work best for me.

Three things I learned by trial and error:
1). Never leave the Beacon's 3-In1 Craft Glue sitting on it's side, because the glue will flood out when you take the cover off.
2). When applying the Diamond Glaze, don't let the tip touch the tile. This keeps down the amount of bubbles you will have to remove.
3). Scrapbook paper works great for the image.

The main reason I wanted to master making Scrabble Tile Pendants is to make an elephant pendant for my soon-to-be daughter-in-law. I wanted to make her one for Christmas, but didn't have the process down well enough, so now I am planning to make her an elephant pendant for her birthday.

I enjoyed making the kitty tile, and I look forward to making an elephant tile, and will probably make more pendants after that. This craft is a keeper!!!

PS, I love comments :-)

Jerry Packed And Ready To Go

2011-01-16T10:46:00.000-05:00

Yesterday morning I laid my computer case out on the bed in preparation for taking my computer with me to my daughter's house where I was going to spend the day babysitting. While I was busy doing other things Jerry climbed into the computer case.

He fit perfectly!

He soon settled in for a nice nap.

I actually felt bad about having to take his new "bed" away from him.

BESTeam Feature: Crafted Love

2011-01-12T15:59:00.004-05:00

The shop I am featuring this week is Crafted Love. The owner, Allison, is an Architecture Student, Amateur Photographer, Graphic Designer, Scrapbooker, Crafter, and lover of anything creative.

Allison has to two beautiful cats named Gizmo and Booster. She gets a Paws Up from my three cats. As far as they are concerned, all cat lovers are great people :-)

On her blog About Me Page, Allison writes that she is known to have way too many ideas and not enough time. Wow, can I relate! I wonder if there is a support group for that?

Allison creates beautiful headbands and barrettes for women and little girls. Here is a sampling of some of my favorites.

Double Black Silk Flower Headband

Light Pink Satin Rosette Flower Hair Barrette

Small Flower Trio Hair Clip

Allison is new to the BESTeam, and she has just written her first BESTeam feature on her Crafted Love Blog.

Organic Catnip Footballs For Your Cats

2011-01-11T19:35:00.005-05:00

The playoffs are underway, and soon it will be Super Bowl time. While you are sitting on the couch watching your favorite team, your cats could be playing with their very own Organic Catnip Footballs.

Here is a picture of my youngest cat, Brady, playing with his footballs.

I named Brady after Tom Brady, the quarterback for the New England Patriots.

Guess you can tell I'm a football fan.

If you are wondering if my carpets are really pink, well yes they are, but believe me I did not pick them out. I would have gone for a nice neutral color, like beige. Oh well...

Here is Brady and Jerry playing with their footballs.

Jerry is my eldest cat. I rescued all three of my cats from a barn when they were kittens. Now they get to play with organic catnip toys :-) and, they also get to live in a house with pink carpets...LOL

I sell Organic Catnip Footballs in my All About Cats Etsy Shop, so if you want your kitties to have something to keep them busy while you are watching football, check them out!

Don't like football? There are lots of other cat toys to choose from. And I sell handmade items for people who love cats, also.

Giveaway By Curious Wiccan

2011-01-11T17:19:00.000-05:00

The Curious Wiccan Etsy Shop is having a giveaway on the Made In Vermont Etsy Street Team Blog. There are three items being given away, and there will be three winners selected!!!
The three things being given away are Peppermint Loose Leaf Tea, Wooden Meditation Worry Beads with evil eye accent, and Aromatherapy Bath Bombs.

I am hoping to win the Aromatherapy Bath Bombs :-)

Visit the Made In Vermont Etsy Street Team Blog to enter. The giveaway ends on on January 23.

Friday Cat Finds: Pouches And Purses

2011-01-07T21:15:00.002-05:00

This week I went looking for cat themed pouches and purses, and I found lots of great ones! Here are some of my favorites.

Tapestry Cat Kitty Make-Up Bag by chaisri.

Kitty Coin Purse by Four And Twenty Blackbirds.

Small Quilted Purse - I love my cat by doodlebug quilts.

Dark Choco cat purse by SunPlay Shop.

Sock Snug Project Bag by CozySpirit.

Debbie Mumm Black Cats Coin Purse With Key Ring by Heart2Handbags.

Come back next Friday to see what cat themed items I pick then :-)

BESTeam Feature: 41 park

2011-01-04T13:26:00.004-05:00

Liza, the owner of 41 park Etsy Shop uses recycled and vintage glass, natural gemstones, recycled fine silver, silver wire and copper in the making of her jewelry. Besides making jewelry, Liza is a mother, wife, and Reiki Master teacher.

Sometimes when I visit an Etsy Shop my eyes are immediately drawn to an item. That is what happened when I visited this lovely jewelry shop.

And this is the item I am talking about. It is a Spiral Quartz Crystal Copper Ring. Since I love copper jewelry, it makes sense that the first thing I saw was this stunning ring, but it is more than that. I love the shape and the way the crystals are attached to the ring.

Don't know your ring size? Liza has written a tutorial on her Process And Perception Blog called what is your ring size?

This Labyrinth Wrap Fine Silver Bracelet is made from dyed felted wool beads, and a fine silver labyrinth.

Here is a Lil' Girls Nest Sterling Silver Birthstone Necklace. There also is a Lil' Nest Sterling Silver Birthstone Necklace for women.

Besides 41 park Etsy Shop, you can find Liza at 41park on Facebook, 41park blog and 41park on twitter.

Spoiled Cat Etsy Treasury By Mama-Made Tutus♥

2011-01-03T15:51:00.001-05:00

'Spoiled Cat!!' by nicolec927

I love my cat, he is my furry child. These items are purrr~fect for any cat ;)

Personalized Kitty Cat ... sunshinecerami... $20.00	Earth Day Tough Cat cat... thezoologicalg... $10.00	ORGANIC Catnip, Magneti... GneissSpice $5.00
Natural Cat Toy Gift Se... moderncat $10.00	Silver Cat Collar with ... TheGlamorousCa... $11.00	Crabby Kitten Pet Bed -... PrairiedogArts $44.00
Rawr Lion Cat Toy sirpopples $4.00	Knit Catnip Mouse, Brig... VivaLeChat $5.50	Five Felted Wool Balls ... AllAboutCats $10.00
Chocolate Chip Cookie O... bittenbykitten $3.00	Crochet Cat Collar - St... CrochetPetColl... $14.00	I Love My Kitty - Plush... LowellandSon $6.00
Homemade Chicken Jerky ... 7thHeavenGourm... $3.50	darn socks upcycled woo... MarvelousMelis... $7.00	Bird Shaped Catnip Cat ... InuInspiration... $5.00

Generated using Treasury HTML code generator by Whale Shark Websites.

BESTeam Feature: Write Owl Designs

2011-01-01T16:17:00.004-05:00

For my second BESTeam feature this week, I am writing about Write Owl Designs. Jean, the owner of Write Owl Designs, was inspired by her mother at eight years old to make her own books. Her mother gave Jean a "bookmaking kit" consisting of office paper, crayons, needle and thread, construction and contact paper, and told Jean that she could make her own story. That was the beginning of Jean's bookmaking career.

Here is an Orange Expressions Hardback Journal. This would be perfect not only as a journal, but for sketching as well.

This is a Green Marble Hardback Journal. It has 80 pages of tarragon writing paper that has been hand sewn and cased to the cover.

Up next is my favorite, the Gold Leaves Coptic Stitch Journal. So beautiful!

And if you've ever thought about making your own journals, this DIY Coptic Stitch Journal Kit would make a good starting point for you.

You can also visit the Write Owl Designs Blog to find out more about Jean, and to read her features of other Etsy Shops.

Thanks for stopping by :-)

BESTeam Feature: Mystic Wynd

2010-12-30T16:05:00.011-05:00

Each week I write a feature about a BESTeam member's Etsy Shop. The BESTeam (Boosting Etsy Shops Team) is made up of a group of friendly, supportive, talented, and creative artisans and vendors that come together from all over the world to promote each others Etsy shops. One of the ways this is done is through each of us writing a blog post every week about a fellow member's Etsy Shop.

This week I have the honor of featuring the Mystic Wynd Etsy Shop owned by Karen. Karen is one of the busy, and highly efficient, people behind the scenes of the BESTeam. How she manages her personal life, creates such beautiful jewelry, and works so hard for the BESTeam is beyond me. I often call her Wonder Woman :-) Not kidding... I really do!

Here is a Love Theme Ivory Pink Charm Necklace and Earring Set - Whole Lotta Love that would make a perfect Valentine's Day present for the special woman in your life.

This exquisite necklace is called Pink Faux Pearls, Roses on Brass Necklace - Rosalyn.

Since purple is my favorite color, I just had to include this beautiful Purple Shell, Glass, and Pearl Necklace - Plums of Penglai to show you.

Karen has another impressive talent, which is writing great blog posts on her Mystic Wynd Blog. Yup, Wonder Woman!

If you think you might be interested in joining the BESTeam, visit the About Us Page on the BESTeam Blog. I love being in the group.

Making Things For Christmas Down Through The Years

2010-12-21T16:16:00.001-05:00

I love Christmas time. At the beginning of December, I get out all my Christmas decorations and tree to decorate the house. Before I finish, my three cats, Jerry, Maggie and Brady, are knocking decorations off the tree and batting them around. They sometimes work so hard to wreck the tree, that they knock it over. It's just part of our Christmas tradition :-)

Over the years, I've made many Christmas decorations. Here are a few.

This is a macrame Santa wall hanging I made about 25 to 30 years ago. The whites of Santa's eyes used to be white instead of yellow, and his wooden nose used to be red. But regardless of his age showing, he is hung up every year. I could replace his eyes and repaint his nose, but some how that wouldn't seem right.

I love to paint with acrylics, and my favorite medium to paint on is rocks.

Here is a rock with two blue birds on a white birch branch all decked out for Christmas.

This is a lion and lamb rock that says "Peace On Earth."

And here is one of the many Santa Claus rocks I've made down through the years.

I made these little kitten stocking decorations a couple of years ago. The picture shows three of them, but I've made many more.

Happy Holidays!

BESTeam Feature: Beader Bubbe

2010-12-20T20:00:00.004-05:00

This week I am featuring the Beader Bubbe Etsy Shop where you can find bracelets, keychains, necklaces, pendants, rings and earrings. The shop is owned by Agnes who loves to create using lots of different mediums like crystal, paper beads, polymer clay, stamping, etc.

Here is a Turquoise Necklace and Pendant made from turquoise and small bone beads and a tortoise shell pendant.

There are matching Turquoise Earrings and a matching Turquoise Bracelet.

This is a Crazy Agate Beige Bracelet made from semi precious stone beads and crazy agate 10 mm rondelle beads.

Next up is a Dream Keychain with the word dream in sterling silver letters, turquoise beads and a knotted hemp cord.

I saved my favorite for last. It is a White Beaded Sparkle Bracelet made with white shell beads on memory wire.

Stop by the Beader Bubbe Blog to see what is going on in Agnes' life. Agnes has the knack of being a friendly, chatty (and I mean this in a 100% positive way) blogger who writes about lots of different, and interesting, things.

BESTeam Feature: Moon Angel Art

2010-12-15T20:08:00.001-05:00

Naomi, the owner of Moon Angel Art, creates contemporary fine art photography, wall art and photo jewelry.

I've picked out four beautiful altered photography prints to share with you.

First up is Bend Over Backwards 8 x 12 or 8 x 10 Inch Fine Art Photo.

Second is The Lovers Spoke 5 x 7 Inch Fine Art Photo.

Third is this stunning Twilight Rose 8 x 12 or 8 x 10 Inch Fine Art Photo.

Last is Raw Orient 5 x 7 Inch Fine Art Photo.

Naomi also has a baby accessories Etsy shop called BabaMoon. Here you can find adorable handmade crochet newborn hats, baby beanies and headbands.

Visit the Moonangelnay Blog for more information about Naomi, her art, and features she writes about other talented Etsy sellers.

Friday Cat Finds: Cute

2010-12-10T18:06:00.004-05:00

I found some really Cute!!! cat items on Etsy for today's Friday Cat Finds.

The first one is an adorable Felix The Gray Cat Backpack by Boutique ID. I love this backpack! And I can tell by the pictures in the listing on Etsy that this is well made.

Here is a Love My Cat Charm Bracelet by Cute & Fun. This bracelet has eight cat charms. Not only is the bracelet cute, the shop name has cute in it :-)

This Christmas Cat Scrabble Tile Pendant by Spoiled Royal has a sweet little gray kitty wearing a Santa hat on it.

Up last is an Orange Tabby Cat And Fish Tree Ornament made from clay. This comes from Jo-Jo's Crafts. This would look so cute on a cat lover's tree.

Stop back next week for more Friday Cat Finds.

All About Cats Etsy Shop Sale

2010-12-09T12:15:00.000-05:00

I'm am having a sale! All handmade organic catnip cat toys are on sale at 20% off.
Visit my shop or the listing of my sales in Etsy On Sale.


Pete The Penguin

Oliver The Christmas Owl

And lots more!

BESTeam Feature: love elycia

2010-12-07T16:50:00.002-05:00

The Love Elycia shop sells headbands, prints, moustaches, and vintage items.

Here is one of the prints to choose from.

Every Girl Has A Story - Derby Print

This picture of Derby is a 4x6 print of an original drawing by Elycia. It was drawn in ink, then digitally colored. It is printed on photo paper with a matte finish and signed on the front.

You can find Derby's story on Elycia's blog every girl has a story.

The next two items are examples of vintage items you can find in the Love Elycia Etsy Shop.

Pleats Please - Vintage Dress

Ahoy - Vintage Scarf

This last item is an example of headbands Love Elycia has to offer.

Say Anything - Custom Word Bubble Headband

Tell Elycia what you want your custom headband to say and she will hand embroider it onto a felt word bubble.

You can also visit Elycia on her blog, Facebook page, and on twitter.

BESTeam Feature: Knits & Beads By Ebeth

2010-12-02T12:42:00.004-05:00

Knits & Beads by Ebeth is a new Etsy Shop that opened November 12. Elizabeth makes knitted scarves, hats, cowls/neck warmers and other knitted items. She also makes handcrafted, beaded jewelry & gifts.

Here is a beautiful Purple Haze Beaded Necklace.

This necklace is made with gorgeous bright purple, round, glass beads and flat, rectangular, lavender glass beads. It is accented with embellished oval silver plated beads and simple tubes surrounding the purple beads.

And here is a Knit Bracelet: Burgundy, Pink, Lavender, Gold. This bracelet is made from a thick, cord-like yarn called Daria by Noro. The colors includes rust, dusty rose, gold, bright green, plum, and brown.

There are more knit bracelet color choices.

This Pink Striped Scarf is knit from a soft wool and soy blend yarn. The stripes are shades of pink, plum and tan.

It looks so warm and cozy!

This elegant Hot Pink Pearl Choker Necklace features hot pink/fushia colored glass pearls that start large and gradually decrease in size around to the toggle clasp.

Be sure to check out Knits & Beads by Ebeth for yourself. You won't be sorry you did!

You can also visit Elizabeth's Blog, Facebook page, and twitter page.

Giveaway By Paula Higa, Brazilian Jewelry Designer

2010-11-30T09:14:00.000-05:00

Paula Higa - Brazilian Jewelry Designer, features a series of jewelry where the main component is handmade Lace, becoming her signature feature. A mixture of colors, texture and the high quality raw materials are carefully selected: Swarovski Crystals, Glass Beads and Semi-Precious Stones -combined with metal elements. Creating a one of a kind, handmade, and elegant pieces of jewelry.

Paula is giving away these elegant earrings.

These beautiful earrings are made with Swarovski crystals and rhinestone, seed beads. The metal pieces are imported from Brazil.

Visit the Made In Vermont Etsy Team Blog for a chance to win these beautiful, one-of-a-kind earrings. The giveaway ends Sunday, December 12th.

Snowmen Magnets Giveaway from Funky Dreams Art Studio

2010-11-29T21:47:00.000-05:00

Funky Dreams Art Studio Etsy Shop is have a giveaway for these adorable snowman magnets and a matching metal slider tin.

Visit the Made In Vermont Etsy Team Blog of a chance to win these snowman magnets. The giveaway ends Sunday, December 12th.

Be sure to sign up for the other holiday giveaways going on right now on the Made In Vermont Etsy Team Blog.

Steampunk Storybook Locket- Giveaway from elle.paisley designs

2010-11-29T19:48:00.000-05:00

Lisa from elle.paisley designs is giving away a one of a kind Steampunk Storybook Locket.

Go to the Made In Vermont Etsy Team Blog and sign up.

Giveaway ends Sunday, December 12th.

Giveaway by kristenvarian

2010-11-29T18:29:00.000-05:00

The kristenvarian Etsy Shop is giving away these beautiful Green Tree Agate and Sterling Earrings.

How to enter: Go to the Made In Vermont Etsy Team Blog and sign up.

This giveaway ends December 12th and the winner will be notified on the 13th by email.