The Romance of Christmas

There is an old saying "Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away".  Christmas is one of those times when we all long for those breath-taking moments, but all too often the planning and cleaning and decorating and shopping just don't leave time for those special moments with family and friends that we will always remember.  Still there is a romance about Christmas - you can just feel it in the air! 

I love the Christmas lights that I see on the houses around town and all the decorations at the stores...the decorations on the gazebo in the town square.  I can imagine the excitement of the shoppers at Macy's in Philadelphia in October 2010 when they were suddenly surrounded by the strains of the Hallelujah Chorus.  (If you haven't seen this, you can view it at Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah performed by the Opera Company of Philadelphia and area choruses.  It is inspiring!)

Around here, there is a small town called Cuero, where they have their Annual Christmas in the Park.  It started in 2000, with the lighting of the gazebo in the park and has grown to over 120 light displays.  If you live in small-town Texas anywhere near Victoria, it is worth the trip to head on over to Cuero with the family to make a Christmas memory. (You can find information on their Facebook page - Cuero Christmas in the Park ).

I hope you all will take the time this Christmas season to enjoy family and friends and to notice those special moments that are the real treasures.  And, take a moment during all the hustle and bustle to remember the real gift of Christmas.
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I want to take a moment to thank Hippie Chic Jewelz for featuring one of my items on her blog.  If you get a chance, you can take a look here - hippiechicjewelz.wordpress.com
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Also, I am having a special at my Etsy Shop, RomanticThoughts .  Through Christmas, just use the coupon code CHRISTMAS2011 for a 15% discount on purchases.
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Finally, I want to express my appreciation to some of the curators who have been kind enough to include one of my items in their recent treasuries:





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Thanks for stopping by!!!  Have a Wonderful Christmas Season!!!

Migraines / Holiday Shopping Event

Not a romantic topic, I know.  I have suffered from migraines most of my life and, from the Promo Frenzy Team threads, I have learned that there are several people on the team that suffer also.  So, I thought I would take the opportunity to share some information.

In recent months my migraines have increased again - to 4 to 5 days a week.  For those who are blessed NOT to suffer from migraines, you should know that this makes for a miserable life.  The pain can be so intense that all you know is pain, and any light or sound or smells only serve to intensify the pain.  My doctors have tried different medications to help prevent them - like Verapamil and Pamelor and Topamax.

Over the years, different treatment plans have included anti-depressants, blood pressure medications and the current theory is to use anti-seizure medications.  Several years ago, my Neurologist had me try Topamax.  I don't recall if it really had any effect on my migraines.  All I know is that, while I was on it, I lived in a deep zombie-like fog.  I don't think that is the answer either - and it definitely effected my work, not to mention my driving ( no accidents, I just couldn't recall how I got from place to place). 

On a recent doctor visit, my doctor gave me a prescription for a new anti-seizure medication, zosnisamide.  Zonisamide is in a class of medications called anticonvulsants.  It works by decreasing abnormal electrical activity in the brain.  For the first several days, I was so drowsy I could barely get out of bed.  Now I am getting used to it and I can function - the drowsy feelings have subsided.  AND, I have gone almost a week without a full-fledged migraine!  Hallelujah!  Still in the early stages of trying it out, but I wanted to share the info with other migraine sufferers out there that there are lots of options, so don't give up hope.  There may be a solution that could provide at least some relief.

For relief of a migraine -
Triptans - Zomig, Maxalt, Imitrex, Axert, Amerge, Relpax

Some migraine triggers -
Alcohol (especially red wine and beer).  Allergies.  Bright lights.  Certain odors or perfumes.  Missed meals.  Food related triggers may be processed, fermented, pickled, or marinated foods, baked goods, chocolate, dairy, MSG, aged cheese, aspartame and foods containing tyramine.  Weather changes - especially pressure changes, such as when a cold front comes through.  Hormones, such as that time of the month.  Stress. Changes in sleep patterns - too much or too little sleep.  Overuse of caffeine.  Some medications.  Genetics.  (Sources: Mayo Clinic , migraine-triggers)

Some Resources:
Mayo Clinic
American Headache Society
National Headache Foundation
My Chronic Migraine
The National Migraine Association
Alliance for Headache Disorders

Finally, if you have recurring migraines, it is important to get treatment.  Talk to your primary care physician about a referral to a neurologist.  It may take several tries to find something that helps, but the odds are much better if you try - with the help of a neurologist or headache specialist.
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With the holidays fast approaching, most folks are getting started on their holiday shopping.  With that in mind, the Promo Frenzy Team on Etsy is having a special promotion during the month of November.  You can find detailed information about the event here: https://promotionalfrenzy.wordpress.com/category/promotional-frenzy-team-events/
The gist of it is that participating team members have hidden a picture among the items in their shop.  When you find the picture, you will also find the information about the discount being offered by that shop for the month.  The picture you are looking for is:

This picture can be found among the pictures for one item in a participating shop, but it will not be the first picture.  The Participating Shops, including my own RomanticThoughts, are -

1. Trinkets N Whatnots - www.galla15.etsy.com
Handmade Button, Crystal and Pearl Jewelry

2. Sewinggranny - www.etsy.com/shop/sewinggranny
Sewn items - baby, kitchen, home decor, holiday

3. CalliopeAZCreations - www.calliopeazcreations.etsy.com
Handmade Jewelry, Medicine Stones, Decorated Feathers

4. jQ jewelry designs - www.jQjewelrydesigns.etsy.com
Gemstone Jewelry that is Classic ... with an Edge

5. KrystalsJewelry - www.krystalsjewelry.etsy.com
Intricate Handmade Jewelry of all styles for all tastes

6. rooee - www.rooee.etsy.com
Quilts & quilted things, cloth dolls, fabric postcards

7. PaintedMemoriesByRos.etsy.com
Fine Art Note Cards and Prints

8. Peelirohini.etsy.com
Colorful and Unique Sterling silver , Gold fill Jewelry with Genuine Gemstones and/or Polymer Clay

9. www.etsy.com/shop/SunnyCrystals
Crystal Tumblestones, Natural Gemtone Jewellery & Decoupage Cards plus a bit of Vintage Jewellery

10. Symbolic Imports - www.SymbolicImports.etsy.com
Handmade Bath & Body - Lip balms, Sugar Scrubs, Handmade Soaps, Perfumes & more!

11. Beautifulswagstore - www.etsy.com/shop/beautifulswagstore
hair accessories, dog toys, baby gift sets, home decor, gift wrapping

12. Bijibijoux- www.etsy.com/shop/bijibijoux
Handmade jewelry/ beads/ supplies -

13. Newcreationz - www.etsy.com/shop/NewCreatioNZ
Fine art and photography craft

14. BountyOfBeads - www.etsy.com/shop/bountyofbeads
Handmade Bead Dangle Drop Charm Sets and Trinity Brass Findings
Jewelry Making Supplies

15. Fair Lady Boutique - www.etsy.com/shop/fairladyboutique
A Beading Boutique with vintage beads + components, Czech glass, gemstones, and custom made bead mixes

16. HollysFollyGlass - www.etsy.com/shop/HollysFollyGlass
Fine and fun Lampwork Glass Beads by artist Holly Dare.

17. Glitterbird Glass - www.etsy.com/shop/GlitterbirdGlass
Home decor and jewelry made from beautiful fused glass.

18. CrochetedbyCharlene - www.etsy.com/shop/CrochetedbyCharlene
Beautiful crocheted afghans, accessories, and much more.

19. Camillescloset- www.etsy.com/shop/Camillescloset
Handmade jewelery items.

20. Prittify - www.etsy.com/shop/Prittyfy
Handmade Jewelry, Modern, Altered Art, Steampunk

21. Crystalphotography - www.etsy.com/shop/crystalphotography
Fine Art Photography Prints and Greeting Cards

22. iaFlowerPower - www.etsy.com/shop/iaFlowerPower
Whimsical Crocheted and Knitted Baby Hats and more

23. Gabby's Quilts - www.etsy.com/shop/GabbysQuilts
Handcrafted Quilts, Tablerunners, Wallhangings and Embroidered Gifts

24. CNJ Ceramics - www.etsy.com/shop/CNJCeramics
Contemporary Clay Jewelry and Home Decor

25. LostLemonade - www.etsy.com/shop/LostLemonade
Body Care Products made to cleanse, moisturize and soothe

26. RomanticThoughts - RomanticThoughts.etsy.com
Handcrafted Jewelry, PreMade Scrapbook Pages, Vintage Items and More

27. Ooh Leela! - isabelafelix.etsy.com
Handmade dish towels and trendy accessories

28. KatersAcres - katersacres.etsy.com
Polymer Clay Creations, Trinkets, & Treasures with a Whimsical Feel

29. Magda - magdamagdaFashion.etsy.com
custom clothing, accessories and supplies

30. Ugly Duckling Beads - www.etsy.com/shop/uglyducklingbeads
Handmade glass beads, digital collage sheets, tutorials, and jewelry

31. BellaTheBead - www.bellathebead.etsy.com
Handcrafted jewelry and supplies with vintage soul

32.IdeasBloom - www.ideasbloom.etsy.com
Handcrafted decorative wreaths

33. Greenhouse Glassworks - www.greenhouseglassworks.etsy.com
Fused Glass Jewelry, Stained Glass Home Decor, and Handmade Cards and Tags

34. Five Supplies - Five0101.etsy.com
All the supplies you need to create

35. TheMayFlower Fashions - themayflower.etsy.com
Fun & Stylish Fashion Designs for Women

36. Something Wyrd- www.SomethingWyrd.Etsy.com
Handcrafted jewelry and beaded charms

37. iluvmarin - iluvmarin.etsy.com
Greeting cards, scrapbooks, cupcake toppers, & festive banners

38. Lexilouflowers - www.etsy.com/shop/LexiLouFlowers?ref=si_shop
Hair Accessories, Feather headbands, and Hair ties

39. Mt Baldy Glassworks www.mtbaldyglass.etsy.com
fused glass jewelry and home decore

40. LexiekinPrints - www.etsy.com/shop/LexiekinPrints
Personalized, customized and Printable Invitations, tags, cards and more!

41. Turtlexiii- www.turtlexiii.etsy.com
Sterling Silver Jewelry with Swarovski Crystals and Pearls, Gemstones & more.

42. IsabellesAttic- www.isabellesattic.etsy.com
aprons, accessories, baby items and more

43. AshlynDesign - www.ashlyndesign.etsy.com
Artisan handmade lampwork beads, metal charms, and finished jewelry

44. eveyinorbitshop - www.eveyinorbitshop.etsy.com
Mixed media art, original aceo and zines.

45. Suzie Tenzer - www.susietenzer.etsy.com
Original fine art paintings and prints

46. LindaB - www.lindab142.etsy.com
Artisan crafted beaded and wire wrapped jewelry, Jewish jewelry and accessories, wire beaded kippot

47. DellCoveSpices - dellcovespices.etsy.com
hand mixed spices, magnetic spice kits, cocktail sugars & margarita salts, organic popcorn, popcorn toppings & other treats

48. OverTheMoonGifts - overthemoongifts.etsy.com
personalized gifts, accessories, and home decor

49. craftycreations81 - www.etsy.com/shop/craftycreations81
Peacock feather items, wedding items and items for newborns/children

50. nan gates designs - www.nangatesdesigns.etsy.com
Fabric handbags, totes and accessories

51. ProdigyCrafts - www.prodigycrafts.etsy.com
Crocheted Clothing, Accessories and Gifts

52. Cigarboxbeads - www.cigarboxbeads.etsy.com
beadweaving, beadwork, jewelry

53. VintageByRachel - www.vintagebyrachel.etsy.com
Romantic,Vintage style handmade jewelry

54. potsdamelf - www.potsdamelf.etsy.com
crazy handmade ceramics, paintings, and jewlery

55. TrinketsByLeah - TrinketsByLeah.etsy.com
Hand sculpted whimsical Jewelry, wacky trinkets, miniatures and more
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Enjoy some shopping and have a wonderful day!

New Products - Premade Scrapbook Pages

This week I want to introduce some new products that I am adding to my Etsy shop. I have done Scrapbooking for about a decade and have always received rave reviews. So, I thought I would take a break from Jewelry making to create some Premade Scrapbook pages. These are designed so that all you have to do is add your pictures.

So far, the themes I have are Christmas, Autumn, Thanksgiving, Winter and Halloween.






I can also do custom scrapbook pages. Just visit my Etsy shop at and convo me about what you need.

Thank you for visiting and have a great week!

Etsy Search Ads

As many of you may know, Etsy started a new promotion gimmick called Etsy Search Ads. The premise is that when someone performs a search on Etsy, items related to that search would show up at the top of the search results for those shops/items that purchased search ads. Sounds good, right? So, I thought I would give it a try for a week and see what happened.

The results are in - with 11 hours left on my week, I have received 3,209 "impressions". In other words, an ad for one of my items showed up 3,209 times. Out of that, I received only 6 views - no favorites and no orders. Conclusion - I don't think it is worth it, at least not for me. Perhaps, others found it more productive. If you have tried the search ads, I would love to hear about your results and conclusions!

At least I gave it a try!

Here are some lovely Treasuries from people who were kind enough to include items from my shop. Thank you so very much!





Thanks for stopping by and have a great week!

Time for Fall

Now that the high temperatures are consistently (knock on wood) below 100 degrees (Fahrenheit), I am beginning to have hope that Fall is just around the corner. With that in mind, it seems a good time to start working on adding jewelry in Autumn colors to my shop. So, I will take this opportunity to display some of the new items that will be added to my shop in the near future....

That's all I have for this week. Have a blessed week....and see you next week!

Fires / Shop Reorganization

The other night, Mom woke me up after taking the puppies outside for their 3am "duty".  She got me up to check around outside with her, because she smelled smoke.  So, there we go wandering around outside with flashlights in our nightgowns checking for fires.  The grass and the trees and the shrubs, well just about everything, are crispy.  We could see smoke drifting past the lights, but after thorough scanning of the surroundings and the roof, we concluded that the fire wasn't close.

Once inside, I did some scouting around on the internet and found that the smoke we were smelling, was coming from a fire over 75 miles away.  The website I referenced, www.wunderground.com,  showed that we were in the smoke field from the huge Bastrop fire that continues to expand unencumbered by the intense work of the firefighters working so hard to save homes, property and animals.  Unfortunately, the website also showed just how many and how widespread are the fires in Texas.  The best we can do at this point is pray for those losing their homes, pray for the firefighters, and pray for rain.

As far as the shop, I thought I would try re-organizing the jewelry by color.  My thought was that it might give it a more pleasant, cohesive look.  If you get a chance, please take a look at my shop and let me know what you think.

Here are a couple of Treasuries featuring items from my shop.  The first was created by LindaB and the second by midnightcoiler.  Thank you both for including me in your lovely Treasuries!!!  So, have a look, enjoy....and have a blessed week!

New Shop - Trying Out Yatimi

A week or so ago, I noticed on the daily threads for the Promo Frenzy Team on Etsy that a lot of folks were talking about a new site for Handmade and Vintage goods called "Yatimi".  Seems that within a day, lots of folks were opening shops there, so I thought it was worth investigating.

Flash forward, I now have a shop on Yatimi, which you can find at http://yatimi.com/shop/RomanticThoughts.  The timing was perfect as I was coming up to expiration dates on my first items on Etsy.  Now that some of my items have expired on Etsy, you can only find those items on my shop on Yatimi.  Never fear, Etsy still has a lot of features that are not available on Yatimi - such as the teams - so I can't abandon Etsy!  My Promo Frenzy Team has been very important in helping me to build my business.

Nevertheless, I hope you will stop by my Yatimi Shop, http://yatimi.com/shop/RomanticThoughts, when you have a chance.  I am curious as to which shop people like better (especially shoppers) and why?  Let me know what you think. 

Here is a Treasury that I created in the last couple of weeks to display the work of other artisans on Etsy.  If you see something you like, click on it and it will take you to that item on Etsy.

Also, I want to express my appreciation for those who include my items in their treasuries, so you will also find a treasury by Barnwood4U and JoolsToDroolOver.

Have a great week and BE BLESSED!

The Copperhead !!!

My Mom injured her foot killing a Copperhead Snake a few days ago.  Between her being her laid up and my back injury, I am exhausted - but ever so grateful that she got the snake before it got her!  We lost one of our dogs to a copperhead snake last year.  :-(

Anyway, I didn't want to miss posting something this week, so I will take this opportunity to show you some new items in my shop this week...

First is this Double-strand pearl Bracelet with Blue Crystals


Next is this Bracelet of Green Aventurine with Silver Accents


And, Saving the Best for Last is this Cross and Vine Pendant Necklace with Pearls, Carnelian and Amethyst

This very special pendant necklace features two pendant pieces - a cross and a vine, because Jesus said "I am the vine". The necklace is made of pearls and Carnelian and Amethyst. Carnelian was chosen for its red color to represent the Blood of Christ and Amethyst was chosen for its purple color to represent His Royalty.
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Remember, the Promo Frenzy Team is celebrating the MEGA PROMO FRENZY SPECIAL during the month of August.  At my Shop, RomanticThoughts, you can get a discount of 15% when you use the coupon code "FrenzySpecial".  A lot of other shops are having specials, too, during this event.  So be sure to drop by Etsy.com and search for "promofrenzyteam".

Have a GREAT Week!!!  ...and here is one of my recent treasuries -


...and here is a recent treasury created by a fellow Promo Frenzy team member, BellaTheBead, that includes one of my items -

Presenting Some New Shops / MEGA Promo Frenzy Special

This week I want to highlight some of the wonderful items in some of the newer shops that are members of the Promo Frenzy Team.


This lovely Primitive OOAK (One of a Kind) Handpainted Antique Woven Picnic Basket is from Countryside Cottage.





Norma's Bath presents this yummy handmade goats milk lavender glycerin soap...




Becca's Blend created these unique earrings featuring five individually handcrafted layers of a classic fleur-de-lis pattern—tied together by silver-plated findings for an elegant effect.




This lovely Custom Ivory Rose with Blue Ribbon and silver trimmings Glass Vase Centerpiece was created by SallyMarie81




I hope your enjoyed a brief look at some of the new shops on Etsy.  Be sure and visit these shops or any of the other Promo Frenzy Shops listed to the right. 

Remember, the Promo Frenzy Team is celebrating the MEGA PROMO FRENZY SPECIAL during the month of August. Unless otherwise stated, use the coupon code "FrenzySpecial". Here is a list of the specials you can find by going to Etsy.com and searching for "promofrenzyteam"...

1) jQjewelrydesigns.etsy.com - 15% off all items over $20
2) Galla15.etsy.com - 30% off all items over $20
3) SymbolicImports.etsy.com - 25% off orders over $10 (some exclusions apply)
4) CalliopeAZCreations.etsy.com - 20% off everything in the shop
5) KrystalsJewelry.etsy.com - 20% off orders over $20

6) SunnyCrystals.etsy.com - 'Summer Special Offer' section - items already reduced plus buy 2 or more of my 3D Decoupage Cards and receive 10% Discount (refunds via paypal)
7) CrochetedbyCharlene.etsy.com - 20% off all orders
8) NewCreationz.etsy.com - 20% off everything Plus free gift Plus entry in to a draw for a voucher to my shop
9) DellCoveSpices.etsy.com - 5% off everything in the shop
10) BountyofBeads.etsy.com - 20% to 25% off Lampwork Beads, Sterling Silver and Polymer Clay
Beads (no coupon coded needed, I am using etsyonsale)

11) PaintedMemoriesByRos.etsy.com - 15% off these sections - BLANK CARD SETS, MATTED CARDS and FRAMED CARDS (also using etsyonsale, no coupon)
12) Bijibijoux.etsy.com - Use coupon code frenzyspecial for 10% off any purchase $8 & UP PLEASE
13) TurtleXIII.etsy.com - 15% off entire purchase, NOT INCLUDING destash which is already super cheap
14) delightfulprints.etsy.com - 15% off everything in my shop, does not include custom orders
15) CrimsonHill.etsy.com - 15% off any order over $10, before shipping with team code.

16) nangatesdesigns.etsy.com - 15% off everything in shop
17) Sewinggranny.etsy.com - 15% off everything in my shop
18) MoanasUniqueDesigns.etsy.com - 10% discount on orders $20 and under, 15% discount on orders over $20
19) lindab142.etsy.com - 10% off of all combined purchases over $15 dollars (except destash and paper items)
20) prodigycrafts.etsy.com - 20% off everything in my shop

21) cigarboxbeads.etsy.com - 20% off everything over $30.
22) vervecolor.etsy.com - 20% off everything in shop before shipping
23) rabbitdogprints.etsy.com- 20% off everything in shop before shipping
24) bloomandbling.etsy.com - 15% off everything in shop before shipping
25) Prittyfy.etsy.com – 15% off any order $20 and up (excluding shipping)

26) iaFlowerPower.etsy.com – 20% off any order $20 and up (excluding shipping)
27) Camillescloset.etsy.com - 15% off any order.
28) TheMayFlower.etsy.com - 20% off on any item in shop (sale price already applied! no need for a coupon code!)
29) Five0101.etsy.com - 15% off on any item in shop.
30) PowersOfLove.etsy.com - 25% off your purchase.

31) BellaTheBead.etsy.com - 15% off purchase of $20 or more (excluding shipping)
32) IdeasBloom.etsy.com - 15% off purchase before shipping
33) KrisKraftnMore.etsy.com - 10% off photography prop orders (before shipping). Buy three patterns get one free.
34) CrystalPhotography.etsy.com - In stock section is 30% off. (Prices already reduced via etsyonsale).
35.) cindydidit.etsy.com - use FRENZYSPECIAL to enjoy 20% off

36.) RomanticThoughts.etsy.com - 15% OFF everything in shop, before shipping
37.) Impactjewelry.etsy.com - 15% off all purchases (before shipping)
38.) ToyStoryNutty.etsy.com (Kater's Acres) - 10% off store prices before shipping
39. justByou.etsy.com - 10% off everything in our shop
40.) desertshinejewelry.etsy.com - 15% off everything in our shop before shipping

41) TheCraftingPlace.etsy.com - 20% off everything in our shop OR Free shipping on orders $20 or more (order must still be $20 or more once coupon is applied)
42) Galla15whatnots.etsy.com - 15% off of all orders over $25 dollars!
43) AshlynDesign.etsy.com - up to 20% off all in-stock jewelry designs (coupon not needed, prices are already reduced)
44) GlitterbirdGlamour.etsy.com - 15% off of all orders
45) craftycreations81.etsy.com - 20% off all orders over $10

46) www.etsy.com/shop/TownandCountryVntage -25% off any item (before shipping and DOES NOT include clearance items).
47) kellyjsorenson.etsy.com ~Kelly Designs~ 20% off all PreMade Logo Designs! Prices already reduced, no coupon needed :)
48) babypenguincreations.etsy.com - 25% off any order $10 or more!
49) laugingpenguin.etsy.com - 25% off any order $10 or more!
50) magdamagda.etsy.com - 25% off anything in "ready to ship" section plus free gift

51) IsabellesAttic.etsy.com - 15% off everything!
52) uniquecozytreasures.etsy.com - 5% off everything over $25. All orders receive FREE my eBook, "Vintage Ice Creams".
53) EldoradoSoap.etsy.com - 20% off all orders of $15 or more (before shipping)
54) www.etsy.com/shop/uglyducklingbeads - 20% off selected items in "MegaPromoFrenzySpecials" section
55) www.etsy.com/shop/desertshinesupply - 15% off all orders over $20 (excluding shipping).


56) kristinskeepsakes.etsy.com - free shipping for the month of aug plus a free gift!
57) www.etsy.com/shop/lovelacedesigns - 15% OFF everything in the shop (except tax and shipping) :-) Use coupon code: Frenzyspecial at checkout **PLUS** All orders will be entered in a drawing for a *FREE* Wooden Letter of his/her choice!! Winner will be announced Sept 5th.
58) www.etsy.com/shop/pepindor - FREE shipping WORLDWIDE, FREE gift wrapping!!! Enter coupon code " frenzyaugust"
59) www.etsy.com/shop/GreenhouseGlassworks - 20% off items that are $20.00 or more. Free gift with all orders!! Use coupon Frenzyspecial at checkout.
60) Dreameryphotography.etsy.com - BOGO - Buy one print and get another free! No coupon necessary, name your free print at checkout!

61) www.etsy.com/shop/cynthiathornton1- 15% off all items with team promo code    

              

MEGA PromoFrenzy Special

Over 50 Shops are participating in the MEGA PromoFrenzy Special this month.  So stop by on Etsy and search for "promofrenzyteam" to find items from the Promo Frenzy Team - or - click on one of the shops listed to the right.  Each shop has their own special for the month of August, but all shops are using the same coupon code: frenzyspecial.  Each participating shop should have an announcement beneath their shop banner describing their discount or special for this event.

This week I will be adding some red items to my shop.  Here are some pictures of the new items that will be added in the next few days....

Have a great week and don't forget to check out the

MEGA Promo Frenzy Specials!!!

The Library

When I was a kid, we would go to the library at least once a week. Then, I got older and had an income, but less time to read, so I got in the habit of buying books.  Now, circumstance have changed and checking out the local library just seems to be a good way to enjoy a good read. 

I was totally amazed at how things have changed.  Oh, I haven't actually been to the library in town yet.  While looking on the town website for information about jury duty (which I have in a couple of weeks), I stumbled across the library's website. 

Wow!  The whole Library Catalog is online!  I can search for books online and find out if they are available.  If  a book has been checked out, it tells you when the book is expected to be available.  You can request a hold on a book and then they send an email when the book is available to check out.  You can even renew your checkout online if no one has requested a hold on that particular book.

Then there is the whole eBook thing.  Now, you can even "checkout" (download) a book to your computer or other reading device without even going to the library.  The checkout period is the same three weeks and then the download deletes itself.  Who knew? 

This whole library thing could become quite an addiction!  Well, I am off to get a Library Card!  Oh, in case you were wondering, I never did find any information online about jury duty.  Guess the courts around here just aren't quite as current on technology as the library.  Nevertheless, I will show up with my Jury Duty card and a good book!

Take care and have a great week!  Here is this week's Treasury:


Just in case you need more eye candy, here is another one:

Christmas in July

It's SO TERRIBLY HOT these days! A friend had posted this wonderful clip to facebook...



It seems the best remedy is to dream of those beautiful days of wintry chill (well, that and Air Conditioning!). A little nice music doesn't hurt either.

Anyway, as long as we are longing for cooler weather, I guess it's a good time to remember that Christmas is just around the corner! My goodness, this year is going by fast. I noticed last week that the local craft store (Hobby Lobby) is already putting their Christmas stuff out! So, I thought this might be a good time to start Christmas shopping. Here are some Etsy shops that are having sales right now...


RomanticThoughts - RomanticThoughts.etsy.com
- Offering a 15% Discount, just enter the coupon code BLOGJUNJUL11 when you check out.

MagdaMagda - MagdaMagda.etsy.com
 - Offering Free Shipping during the month of July.  No coupon code necessary.

Town and Country Vintage - TownandCountryVntage.etsy.com
- Offering a 20% Discount, just enter the code PROMOFRENZY when you check out.

Crystal Photography - CrystalPhotography.etsy.com
- All items tagged "Christmas in July", as well as bookmarks, individual greeting cards, and prints up to 5x7 in size are on for free shipping!
- Clearance Section: Buy one get one free of equal or lesser value. Please state the free item (from clearance section) in message to seller.

Powers of Love - PowersOfLove.etsy.com
- Christmas in July Sale. 20% Discount, just enter the coupon code JULYXMAS when you check out.

Bounty of Beads - BountyofBeads.etsy.com
- Clearing out  Polymer Clay Beads and Lampwork Beads sections.  "Make me an offer on the entire section sale"  - If anyone is interested in purchasing either of those ENTIRE sections at one time, I am entertaining ALL offers. 

Linda B's Jewelry - LindaB142.etsy.com
-  15% off any total purchases in the Christmas In July section of my shop over $12 (does not include shipping). Must use coupon code CAS711.



Here is this week's Treasury -

New Pictures

I have been working on new pictures, so I thought I would show off some of them this week.

First Set


Second Set


Third Set


Fourth Set


Reminder: For those following my Blog, I have a coupon code that can be used in my shop . It is good for 15% off your entire purchase. Just enter the code BLOGJUNJUL11 when you check out.

Treasuries

This week, I worked on building Treasuries. Treasuries offer Etsy members, whether they are buyers or sellers, the opportunity to put together groupings of items from various Etsy shops, displaying and promoting items that the Treasury curator appreciates.

Here are two of my Treasuries that made it close to the top of the Treasuries listing -


This one actually made it to the number two spot on the list of Treasuries...


Oh, I thought I would add just one more. Since the economy is not great, I thought that a Treasury of items on Clearance might be fun. There are some really nice items on Clearance. Here are just a few...


The creator of the spoon ring in the top row of this treaury sent me a message to pass on to readers of my blog. They are offering a 10% discount on anything in their shop. Just use the coupon code BLOGREADER10 when you check out. Their shop is called Revisions and can be found at Revisions.etsy.com.

Reminder: For those following my Blog, I have a coupon code that can be used in my shop . It is good for 15% off your entire purchase. Just enter the code BLOGJUNJUL11 when you check out.

Just have to throw this in - WE HAVE RAIN! It has been about 6 months since we have had rain! I am sure that there are many folks around here rejoicing this morning. God is GOOD! Have a blessed day!

Revisions & Additions

Well, I have had my Etsy shop for a little over a month.  I have even had a few sales.  Nevertheless, I spent some time looking over the photos of the items I have listed...and I decided that I could do a better job of displaying my jewelry.  So, I am spending time taking new photos and then replacing old photos with better new photos.

For the ones that I have completed, the listings look greatly improved  -  at least to me.  For example, I have a necklace with Lapis, but the blue did not show up very well in the original photos.  Now, the blue in the pictures is quite vivid.  Here is a demonstration of the difference for this particular necklace.

Before:

 After:

It's a work in progress, but I hope my shop will be better when I finish.

Along with trying to improve my shop, I find I have a slight propensity toward jumping from one project to another.  This week that included pulling out some vintage and craft items that will eventually make it into my Etsy Shop.  So far, I have posted these two items -

First is this Angel that I made from an old hymnal, published in 1955.

Second is this set of ceramic fruit wall hangings that I came across.  They are in pristine condition, circa 1970s and a product of HOMCO Home Interiors.

One last important piece of business -

For my blog followers, I now have a special coupon for 15% OFF on purchases in my Etsy Shop through the end of July. The Coupon Code is BLOGJUNJUL11. Just enter the coupon code when you check out.   Shop at RomanticThought.etsy.com !

Thanks for stopping by!  ...and have a GREAT DAY!

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This Week's Awesome Treasury

Mixing Old and New

This week, I came across some old vintage jewelry that got me thinking about mixing pieces of old and new.  So far, I have been able to make two pieces - a bracelet and a necklace - that combine both pieces from vintage jewelry and new pieces.

The hard part was taking the vintage pieces apart!  But, I like how these two pieces came out.  The bracelet sold the first day it was listed.  Anyway, here are some pictures of these two new pieces:

If you would like information on these pieces or would like to see more of the 70 some odd treasures that I have listed in my Etsy shop, please come visit at RomanticThoughts.etsy.com.

Reminder - once I reach 100 followers on this blog, I will be giving away a bracelet to one of those wonderful first 100 followers.  I am having a similar giveaway on the Facebook Fan Page for Romantic Thoughts, http://www.facebook.com/pages/Romantic-Thoughts-and-Treasures-Etsy/144182138988286 .  One of the first 100 people to "like" the facebook page will also win a bracelet.

One last thing - I wanted to share my latest Treasury, "What Every Lady Needs" -

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4dee5f6e4d128eef202fddbd/what-every-lady-needs

Thanks for stopping by - And have a GREAT DAY!

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Update - a couple of new items in the Old Meets New collection, combining parts from vintage jewelry and new jewelry components:

Choker that goes with bracelet, above

New bracelet

New Creation

I stumbled across some Amethyst Pear-shaped beads yesterday that I just had to have.  Once I got home, I almost immediately went to work on my latest creation.

What really caught my eye is the diagonal stripe across the largest of the pear-shaped beads.  The variations in the shades of purple in these amethysts also worked well, because it allowed me to use both the pale amethysts as well as the darker amethysts that I have in my jewelry-making collection

 of beads. 

I wanted to use the five pear-shaped beads together, so I created a kind of pendant with them.  The remainder of the necklace is made with the amethysts I mentioned above, glass pearls and decorative silvertone metal beads. 

This turned out to be one of my favorite pieces.  I hope you like it, too.  If you want more information about this creation, you can find it at my Etsy shop at Amethyst Pendant Necklace.

Making progress on the 100 followers, but it may take a while to get there.  Still,  I won't forget about the giveaway. 

Hope you have a great evening!  Take care & God Bless!

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Update - This necklace sold shortly after it was added to my shop!  YeeHaa!  Still please stop by my shop when you get a chance to see what else I have.  Thanks!

Goal and Giveaway

Good Morning!

Well, it seems that it might be a good idea to have a goal.  So, now I have a goal - I am trying to reach 100 followers.  When I reach that goal, I will be giving away a bracelet to one of those first 100 folks. 

Can you help me reach that goal?

Also, I wanted to share a couple of Etsy Treasuries that feature one of my pieces of jewelry.  You can take a look here: http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4de26016f3e46d911c1907ba/for-the-purple-people-of-etsy  and here: http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4de2448249838eefa8ef1179/shades-of-blue

In the Beginning...

So this is where it starts.  I have a blog.  Now, the question is, what to write about. 

This all started because I found myself somewhat handicapped.  This led to my family giving me a gift of jewelry-making supplies - thereby giving me something to do within the restrictions by which I am currently bound.  Well, I enjoyed it so much that, in no time, I had made over 100 pieces of jewelry.  One little problem with that - I have no place to put 100 pieces of jewelry, let alone places to wear them.  So, after a number of people saw what I was making and commented that they were certain I could sell what I was making, a business was born.

Now you know - I make jewelry.  I use lots of crystals and pearls and semi-precious stones.  My designs tend toward simple elegance.  However, once in a while, a mood strikes me to try something different, or off-the-wall, or downright quirky.  A lot depends upon what kinds of stones and beads I come across that I think would be interesting to work with. 

To sell my treaures, I have opened a store on Etsy.  It is called RomanticThoughts and can be found at RomanticThoughts.etsy.com  In the midst of getting the shop up and running, I have also found a few vintage items that I thought could find new homes via my etsy shop.  Hence, I have added those few items to my shop and will probably add more as I come across things that interest me.

Anyway, this is how it starts.  We'll find out together how things progress.  Thanks for visiting.