Creative Treasures by Donna

New Listings

2012-01-18T13:49:00.007-07:00

Hello Everyone!

It's been a while since I've been around. A lot has been going on. For one, I've started another business, a weight control clinic. I started not only one, but two. One in Gilbert here in the valley (Phoenix valley) and another one up in northern Arizona in Flagstaff. I go up to that one twice a month. With all the business, my jewelry has been on the back burner for a while. With all this going on, I've retired also from nursing. I just couldn't keep up anymore. (I think I'm getting old! LOL!) So I started my second, or maybe it's third career. :) I still get to help people get healthier as well as thinner in the process. What a deal huh? Can't beat that!

Now I do have some new listings I want to share with you. I have these listed in my Etsy shop and a few of these in my Artfire shop as well. This pair of lovely pink Czech glass and brass earrings are perfect for Valentine's Day coming.

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season. See you soon!

Peace,

Donna ♥

Happy Holidays...Blessing To All

2010-11-18T14:45:00.005-07:00

Hi Everyone!

If any of you are like me, I'm never ready for the holidays. There always seems to be more that needs to be done, and yet it always seems to go smoothly and everything comes together in the end. Or maybe we just don't fret like we use to and if it gets done, it gets done. I think I'm learning to live with that latter point of view. LOL!

This year for Christmas, our family is going to have a really special celebration! Our two daughters are grown and have families of their own. We've had to learn to share our kids with their in laws as well as with our daughter's ex-husband. So the one daughter who lives here has to share her son with her ex-husband every other year. It's been hard to deal with, but we make the best of it. Her husband is a police officer and sometimes is working on the holiday. I guess crime never takes a break, right?

Now the other daughter and her family live in San Diego. Her husband is an officer in the Navy and is out to sea from time to time. Because of their scheduling constraints, we aren't always able to get together for Christmas. The last few years that we've been all together for Christmas, either one of our sons in law or our grandson were not there. Someone always seems to be missing.

So, this year my prayers have been answered! We are ALL going to be under one roof for the holiday! I still can't believe it! It's such a blessing to have us all together for the holiday. AND in celebration of the holiday we've decided to make each other gifts. It doesn't matter what it is as long as you made it with household items! (What a great idea...whoever suggested that idea was an awesome person!) LOL! We've decided that it had to be made from something in the home. It can be something baked, a written poem, a hand written card, anything that is handmade. My one grandson, who is a twin wanted to know if his brother could do his homework for a week as a gift to himself. WRONG! LOL! Try again!

They have gotten the idea and I see them working on it. Our grand daughters are working on "girly" things and baking. Not so sure what the boys are cooking up, but I'm sure it'll be interesting! I can't wait to see all their ideas. And I plan on taking lots of pictures. Who know when we can all be together again.

As for my husband and I, we have some other plans. We are just going to be taking in the wonderful time with our kids and grand kids. Just loving every minute of it! We are truly blessed!

So have a wonderful holiday season. I hope your holidays are just full of many blessings as I know ours will be.

Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas!

Blessings,
Donna

Artfire's Group Deal!

2010-09-15T23:50:00.001-07:00

Have you heard the great news? Artfire is having a fantastic Group Deal! You can join now for only $5.95 per month! Yep, you read that right!!! This is only $5.95 per month...forever! What a deal!!! You can't beat that! No contracts, no hidden fees and no games. Just a wonderful place to be!

If you've been thinking of getting an account with Artfire, now is the time! Get up off that sofa, quit watchng that TV and go to your computer and get an account NOW! This offer will not last long.

Join in all the fun and contests and win some prizes too.

Don't delay, get it today! Artfire is here to stay!

Here's where you need to go to get all the wonderful details on this awesome offer! "Artfire Group Deal!"

See you there! :)

Peace~

TGIF! Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-12T05:34:00.006-07:00

I'm so glad it Friday. It's been a very long week and I'm already going to have a very busy weekend planned!

I did manage to get these earrings listed the other day. I'm calling these Annie, only because the whole time I was making them, my cat, Annie kept trying to crawl into my lap. LOL! So, they are called "Annie". These are made of a thick gauge sterling silver wire, but the earring part is 20 gauge, just perfect for your ears. They've been formed, hammered and tumbled for strength and shine. If you would like these oxidized, that can be done for you. Just ask. No extra charges either. You can get to these by clicking the name Annie or by clicking the picture. They are listed in my Artfire Studio.

Have a great weekend. Hope you all do something special for Valentine's Day!

Peace,

Donna

Hello! I'm Alive!

2010-02-09T20:30:00.007-07:00

Hello everyone! It's been a while since I've had time to visit my blog. A lot has happened!!!

First off, we had a wonderful holiday. I hope you all did too. We stayed home for Christmas. Had a great celebration with our family. Then for New Years we went to San Diego. Only the Sunday after Christmas, one of my patients shared with me. I got an upper respiratory virus. We went anyways to visit our daughter and her family. Part of their family was getting over being sick and the other half we just coming down with the same thing. Only the day after arriving in San Diego, I got really sick. We had a great time with the kids, but came home a day early because of being so sick. That was six to seven weeks ago, I'm still coughing. I think I had pneumonia. I was miserable! But on the mend now.

Then to top off all the confusion, we opened another business in town here. Man, I work all day at the doctor's office, then run to my other office to meet with clients. Then rush home to make jewelry! When do I sleep??? Haven't figured that part out yet. LOL! I'm working on it.

We opened a weight control center. I so believe in the program that I've been on that I've decided to jump in and do this. My boss supports me 100% and send a lot of our patients to me for counseling. I've even gotten my husband on the program. He was an our of control diabetic by his own choosing! But he decided to do the diet. He's lowered the amount of insulin he takes to almost nothing and has lost almost 20 pounds in the process. This is AWESOME!!!! His sugars are very well in control now. First time in about 8 years! I can't complain at all. I'm very proud of him. He's worked hard at this and it's paying off! I've lost 68 pounds now and keeping it off has never been so easy! I just love this program. It's called Ideal Protein, it's soy protein, a whole lot easier on your body. It works for us, and that's why we decided to start a program for others. I'll include my before and after pictures here. I still have about 10 more pounds to go and hoping I can get that off in the next few weeks.

This was last summer with both my daughter while we were all in San Diego. I won't tell you all what I weighed there, but it was the most I've ever weighed!

This was the other night after the lost of 68 pounds. I'm wearing those same brown pants which just fall off of me now. This diet works!

Hope you all have a great week!

Peace~

Happy New Year!

2009-12-28T19:55:00.010-07:00

I hope you all survived Christmas. We did, but we had to suffer through coordinating every one's schedules, delicious foods, many gatherings, delicious foods, endless shopping trips, delicious foods, and the seasonal colds. Oh, did I mention delicious foods? LOL! I'm just relieved that we all survived! Now one more celebration to go! New Years. We are headed to San Diego for this one. We are going to stay with our other daughter and her family for several days. About the only things we have on New Year's is black eyed peas and cabbage along with cornbread. It's tradition! Means wealth and prosperity. There we go again, delicious foods.

We started a new tradition at my sister's house this Christmas. We all made gingerbread houses. But a week before Christmas, the trash talking began. I guess we can't do anything as a family unless there's some sort of competition. My daughter is a die hard Cardinals fan, but my brother in law is a die hard Vikings fan. So there you got it, trash talk! My daughter made a Cardinals house and dedicated to her uncle. While my brother in law had us all beat. He actually has a Christmas tree dedicated to the Vikings. Everything on the tree is related to the Vikings. It even had yellow and purple lights on the tree. But he got really offended when I asked him if it was a Mardi Gras tree. LOL! All and all we had a great time.

Here is my gingerbread house. Love the porch, don't you? Ok, so I don't know how to make a gingerbread house. LOL! But the one on the right is my daughter's Cardinals house.

Hope you all have a very safe and Happy New Years celebration!

Peace~

2009-12-25T12:24:00.006-07:00

Happy Birthday Jesus!
Our Lord and Saviour!

Let us remember what this holiday is all about.
I wish you have a very Blessed Christmas!

God Bless

HOLIDAY SALE! 15% OFF EVERYTHING!

2009-12-11T06:08:00.004-07:00

I'm having a 15% off everything in my Etsy Shop only this weekend. It's sort of a "Before Christmas Blow Out Sale!" This also includes all my already clearanced items.

This is one of my newest brooches or some might call it a lapel pin. It's made of copper and Swarovski crystals. Just like it's name, Sparkling Hearts, it's really sparkles!

So, come on by and see what you can find for that special someone, or that my be yourself!

Have a great day and weekend!

Peace~

Weight Update!

2009-12-05T15:57:00.004-07:00

As some of you already know, I started a diet program in mid July last summer. So I thought I'd update you all on my weight loss progress. As of this morning, I've lost 58 pounds. WOW! I'm even amazed with myself! I've been on the maintenance part of this program. I went from eating a high protein and veggie diet to 1200 calories a day with starches, fruits, dairy and fats. This has been a real eye opener as to how much I ate. I was never a real garbage eater, but the quantities were way too much. So I've learned to tone that down and I'm doing just fine with my portion control. I've even lost 8 pounds since being on the maintenance part of this phase, about four weeks now. I have only 19 more pounds to loose. I know I can do this and I'm happy with what I've accomplished so far.

I've also listed a new brooch yesterday. It's called Angel Wings, even though my husband said that it looks like a whale and my daughter said it looked like a musical note. So this brooch can be whatever you want it to be, but for me, it's an angel wing. She's made of copper wire formed into a wing, then I wire wrapped small frsh water pearls around the wing. I added some Swarovski crystals just for the sparkle.

Have a great weekend.

Peace~

NEW LISTINGS!

2009-12-03T05:41:00.008-07:00

Good Morning Everyone!

I have a few new listings and I wanted to share with you all. I know, it's taken me a long time to update my shops, but I still had that camera issue going one. Then I had a show I had to do, and so it's now time to list.

Meet Squiggles, she's not just an ordinary Squiggles, she's a special Squiggles! Place her on her side and she's just Squiggles, but more upright she can become a Christmas tree. You can wear her all winter long, she would love to hold your shawl together or just look lovely on your sweater. She loves to show off her beauty!

So come on by my Artfire Studio and check out Squiggles and my other new listings.

Have a great day and keep smiling. No one will know what you are up to, but you sure look happy doing it! :-)

Peace~

CYBER MONDAY SALES!

2009-11-30T05:51:00.002-07:00

Good Morning! It's Cyber Monday and there are an awful lot of sales going on! Check out my two shops, Artfire and Etsy. I have sales in both of them.

I've been working hard, I finally got a new camera last weekend. But still learning how to use the dang thing! Cameras are so finicky! LOL!

Here's one of my new fused fine silver pair of earrings. I do have others, but I wanted to show you all these. They turned out really nice! So did the pictures, I might add. I'm thinking I like this new camera. :)

So if someone would like to take these home with them, they are available!

Hope you all (US residents) had a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving. We went up to Sedona, love that town, and had Thanksgiving with my husband's family. It was beautiful! As usual....when is Sedona NOT beautiful?

Also check out my friend's shop who is having a great Cyber Monday sale too. She has Fabulous Artisan Metal jewelry! @canadianrockies http://www.canadianrockiesart.artfire.com

Hope you all have a great day! Happy Holidays and happy shopping! ;)

Peace~

.•:¨♥¨:•. HOLIDAY SALES .•:¨♥¨:•.

2009-11-22T07:13:00.006-07:00

~ * ~ 25% OFF EVERYTHING THANKSGIVING SALE IN MY ARTFIRE STUDIO ~ * ~

~ * ~ BOGO HALF OFF OF EQUAL OF LESSER VALUE HOLIDAY BLACK FRIDAY & CYBER MONDAY SALE IN MY ETSY SHOP ~ * ~

Here's the deal, I'm having a different sale in both shops. So come on "buy" and see what you can find.

Here's my brooch called "Peace" in my Etsy Shop.

I will be listing new things this week in both shops. I'm finally getting out today to get a new camera. It's about time, right?

This is "Hoops" in my Artfire Studio.

I wish all you US residents a wonderful and safe Happy Thanksgiving.

gobble... gobble...

Peace~

GRAND OPENING in my Artfire Studio!

2009-11-15T22:25:00.008-07:00

"GRAND OPENING"

My Artfire Studio

15% off everything

(see post for details)

I'm having a Grand Opening in my Artfire Studio! I am offering 15% off everything in my artfire studio from Monday, November 16th through December 31, 2009. Use coupon code during check out, "GRAND OPENING" this will give you the discouont. This also includes my already marked down Clearance items. You can't pass this one up, so come on by and see what you can find. Maybe there's something you can't live without!

I will be listing new things after this week. I've been really busy making new items. I have a show coming up this weekend. I also have the camera situation taken care of for the time being. I'm using my daughter's camera. Or should I say, we are sharing her camera. LOL! Either way, what I don't sell at the show I'll be listing the following week.

I'll try to stop in and post on a more regular basis. Well, as work permits me to. I've been working some long hours lately. It's flu season! And the snowbirds are back in town and keeping us busy. Have a great week!

Peace~

Cameras! Can't live with them, nor without them!

2009-11-07T22:31:00.007-07:00

For those of "us" who have websites and sell online, we know the importance of having a good digital camera. For most of us, we depend on the Macros. Macros are when we need to take a close up of something. My first digital camera was a first generation Kodak. The Macros died in that camera. We who are jewelry designers know how important the Macros are. So I bought a second camera. A Sony Cyber Shot, and I have no clue what has happened to this one. It just died! I've only had it for three years. I was online with a Sony rep the other night and we tried to restore the camera back to it's default stage. It didn't work. He told me that I needed to take it into a Sony repair dealer. It's going to cost me $121.00 just to have them look at the camera! That doesn't count any of the repairs and labor. It's going to cost Way too much to fix it! So....I'm looking for a new camera! I'm OVERWHELMED!!! There are just so many out there. I just want the camera to take close up pictures. One would think that would be an easy choice, but NOOOO it isn't!

So, if any of you have any suggestions, please feel free to let me know! I don't want to pay a lot, the dang things don't seem that last long. My last one I paid a small fortune for it, and it only lasted three years.

Maybe one of these old cameras will do? They seemed to have lasted a long time. My Dad had one of these when we were kids. I wonder where it is now?

Hope you all are enjoying your weekend!

Peace~

Wednesday Feature ~ SpoiledBratzwear

2009-11-03T22:30:00.009-07:00

I have met a very delightful person on Artfire. We both just happen to live in Arizona. She lives up in Flagstaff, one of the most beautiful parts of our state. Her name is Holly of SpoiledBratzwear on Artfire.

Holly's passion is dog rescue. In 2006 she founded a group that helps senior Italian Greyhounds who are in rescue program from across the country. You can read up on this wonderful organization here at Silver Hounds.

Her other passion is designing clothing for your pets to wear. Her dream is to be the Vera Wang of the dog world. I think she's made it! She also makes treats for your furbabies. Check out her studio, you will be amazed at what she does! Click on the picture and it will take you to the listing of this adorable Christmas Plaid Fleece Dog Sweater for your little pooch.

Here are a few of her beautiful designs.

Mini Elf Hat for Tiny Dogs XS

Isn't this just the most adorable little pooch you

ever seen?

She has many different things in her studio, clothes, sweaters, boots, hats, coats, collars, and even vegan treats.

Have a great day!

Peace~

Wordless Wednesday ~ Pampering Yourself!

2009-10-28T05:30:00.019-07:00

This is how you Pamper yourself. All
from CozyMoments on Etsy.

We start with our face...

Shea Butter and Aloe Facial Cream,
Natural and Paraben Free - For Dry,
Sensitive, and Combination Skin

Then for your body...

Sweet Witches Brew Scented Foaming Bath

and Shower Cream Soap, Paraben Free -

with Shea Butter and Apricot Kernel Oil )4 oz)

Last, but not least...

...your feet!

Soft Pampering Kisses scented Fluffy

Foot Butter, Paraben Free - Moisturizes,

Nourishes, and Protects (4 oz)

There, don't you feel refreshed?

Hope you all have a great day!

Peace~

Boo!

2009-10-25T21:07:00.004-07:00

We went to a Halloween party this past weekend. We had a problem coming up with some kind of costumes, but we finally got it together. I went as a Fall Fairy and my husband went as....are you ready...Swine Flu! LOL! It was great! He would come up behind people and pretend to sneeze and then spray them with water, then tell them that they've just been visited by Swine Flu. He had sunglasses on that had a pigs nose attached and a little cork screwed pink tail on the back of his shirt. It was Great! We had a wonderful time. And I have my idea for next year's costume, I think I'll do the Snow Queen, done the same way I did this years costume. We'll have to work on that one.

Now onto my diet, I'm almost through with the first phase, the first four months. It ends in a week and a half. I will go on a 1200 calorie diet and suppose to go back the the first phase diet again. But since this is going to happen right in the middle of the holidays, I'm going to wait until after New Years to go back in the first phase diet. I'll just stay on the 1200 calorie diet for that time. I've lost 47 pounds now. I'm amazed with myself! LOL! My mind hasn't caught up to my body yet. I'm sure I'll get there but for time being I'm still thinking I'm heavy. I'm working on that.

Hope you all have a great week!

Peace~

New Earrings ~ Hope

2009-10-18T21:28:00.007-07:00

Here's my newest hoop earrings. I really enjoy making hoop earrings. I'll have to work on this and make some more! Hope is made of a thick gauge sterling silver wire, but the part that goes through your ear is 20 gauge. They've been tumbled to give them strength and shine. They have not been oxidized, but that can be done if you wish at not extra charge to you. I hammered part of the hoops just to give them a different texture. These are being offered in two of my shops, my Artfire Studio and my Etsy Shop.

The rest of this weekend was spent making our costumes for a Halloween party that we are attending next weekend. I promise, I'll take pictures of us in our costumes. Only this year I'm not making my husbands, he said that he has it all in control. He muttered something about being a Redneck Tooth Fairy....this scares me a bit!

Have a great week!

Peace~

My Newest Creation! Hoops!

2009-10-16T05:53:00.002-07:00

I decided to make some hoops! It took me a while to make them, but I've succeeded in making these and another pair which I'll list later today.

I've been very busy with work. Welcome to flu season! We've been working long hours and seeing a lot of sick people. Including my boss, whom a patient shared with, and he got the flu! It's been a bad week, we had to cancel two days and work them in on the three days that were left. But we've all survived so far. Just keep washing our hands, using the hand sanitizers and wearing our masks. That's about all we can do and hope for the best. I do NOT want to get this flu! It's a Nasty one!

On a good note, I've lost 45 pounds now! Yippee! I can't believe it myself yet. My mind hasn't caught up with the fact that I've gone down two sizes now! LOL! I have about three more weeks on this diet and then I take a break, I go on a maintenance, 1200 calories a day. Suppose to be on that for about three weeks and then back on the diet until I loose the rest, which isn't all that much by that point. I am a bit worried about going off it though, I'll have hunger pains and an appetite again. It's been nice not having that for the past three months. But, since the holidays will be right upon us, I'm going to wait until they are over, then start back in January. If I have the guts to do it, I'll show you all a before and after picture. :)

Hope you all have a great weekend!

God Bless~

New Listing! Peace~

2009-10-12T12:52:00.002-07:00

I finally finished my new listing. Meet Peace. She's 2 3/4 inches in length and 1 1/2 inches wide. She would just love to be sitting on your sweater or lapel. She would really shine and look pretty for you. She would not let you down. She would love it for you to come and see her pedigree here. She's made of genuine copper and turquoise gemstones. She's also very easy to take care of. No feedings in the middle of the night, now having to let her out at odd times of the day. Just keep her in a ziplock bag and she'll shine forever. But if she gets a bit tarnished, you can just rub her down with a nice soft cloth or get a silver polishing cloth. If you would like to have her oxidized, that can be done with no extra charge. Just let her creator know. (Oh....that would be me!)

Have a great day!

Peace~

Wordless Wednesday~

2009-10-06T21:58:00.016-07:00

Halloween is just around the corner! Here are
some of the most adorable costumes I've ever
seen!

Isn't she just adorable?
Bumble Bee Halloween Costume 4 PIECE SET---
TUTU, STINGER, WINGS, ANTENA by avella

This one is soooo cute!
Black and Purple WITCH Tutu Boutique Custom
Princess Length 6mo to 3T HALLOWEEN
COSTUME Photo Prop SO CUTE IT'S SCARRY
by pamperedprincesses

Wouldn't you like to take this little Gnome
home with you? Isn't he just the cutest?
alia0776 Custom gnomey with booties
by peglegpoo

Have a great day and be careful of little gremlins...
or was that Gnomes?

Peace~

New Artfire Studio and Busy Weekend!

2009-10-04T21:07:00.007-07:00

I've taken the plunge and started selling on Artfire this weekend. It took me a while to get everything set up with everything going on this weekend, but I'm thinking it will be worth it in the long run.

I did list another lapel pin the end of this week on Etsy. It's called Evergreen. It's made of pure copper and Peridot gemstones. I really like the simplicity of this one. I think I'll have to make one for myself! LOL!

Also we had some good news this weekend. Both our daughters had their marriages blest in the Church. We couldn't be there for our one daughter, she lives in San Diego. But we could be there for the other daughter this morning at Mass. What a blessing!!! We are very proud and happy for them.

The other thing that happened this weekend, I was featured in this blog, A Bead A Day. Lisa has a lovely blog. I am very honored to be featured in her blog.

Other than that, that's about it for my busy weekend. Hope you all have a great week!

God Bless~

WEEKEND SALE!

2009-09-26T09:43:00.004-07:00

I'm having a 20% OFF everything including my Clearance items in my Etsy shop this weekend only, Sept 25th through Sept. 27th. I'm sure you'll be able to find something for yourself or a gift for someone. So come on by and take a peek at my Etsy shop, Creative Treasures by Donna.

Here are a few new listings I've listed this past week. This first one is called Abstract, and as you can see, that is what it is. I used copper and Amethyst gemstones to create this stunning brooch.

The second picture is a pair of earrings I named Halo. They are made out of Mykonos Greek ceramic beads wrapped in sterling silver wire and finished off with a turquoise gemstone.

This is another fabulous brooch, it is called Red Rock. It reminds me of Sedona with the fabulous red rocks up against the gorgeous turquoise blue sky. It is made of copper wire, an artisan hand made lampwork bead, a copper heart charm, a fresh water pearl and a Kyanite gemstone.

Thank you for stopping by and have a great day!

~Peace

Wordless Wednesday~

2009-09-22T22:28:00.015-07:00

In God's words.......

Scripture Art LIFT MY EYES (Psalm 121) 8x10 print by lifeverse

WORDS of ENCOURAGMENT FOLK ART ANGEL CARD -

Strength- by Andreatdesigns

Romans 12 - 24x36x1.5 HUGE, scripture inspired, original

painting, acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas, Christian Artist

by jodileighoriginals

Peace~

Beware of the Piggies!

2009-09-20T23:26:00.009-07:00

Swine flu paranoia gets out of hand!

This seems to be funny, but it really is a threat to all of us. They are predicting a bad season everywhere this year. Don't take a chance, get your flu vaccine and the H1N1 vaccine this year. We have already seen a few suspected cases in our office. So please get your flu vaccine and the H1N1 this year.

Have a great week!

Peace~

Wordless Wednesday~

2009-09-15T21:58:00.008-07:00

Some beauties I found!

Lavender Goats Milk Soap - 1.5 oz
by HeathensHearth

Yummy Vanilla Buttercream Goats Milk

Soap by hahlee0423

Sweet Pea Goats Milk Soap by Sissy Soap

by sissysoap

Have a great day!

Peace~

Been Missing in Action~

2009-09-13T23:30:00.005-07:00

I'm back, for the time being. It was a very busy week and I've been a bit under the weather. Feeling better, but it's going to be a long road again to recovery. You see, I have Ulcerative Colitis. I've been in remission for almost three years. But in the early summer I had a kidney infection and I had to take Cipro for it. It cleared the kidney infection, but I had a flare up in the process. So back on all sorts of meds and missed quiet a few days of work in the process. Nearly ended up in the hospital a few times, but begged not to be admitted. But I'm doing much better and on the mend. Thank goodness!

Now on a good note, in the process of trying to get well and being on a special diet, I ended up loosing 33 pounds. Still on track with the diet and hope to be able to report more by the end of the week.

I did manage to get some new things made while I was sick. I've listed a few recently and this is one of them. I named this one, "HANIA" it's from the Hopi Native American tribe meaning "spirit warrior." The Hopi Tribe live in north central Arizona. These earrings have a southwest flare to them. Hope you all enjoy them. Just click on the picture and it will take you to the listing.

Hope you all have a great week.

God Bless~

Amethyst, the lovely purple stone~

2009-09-05T23:41:00.015-07:00

Did you know that Arizona is America's leading gem mining state? Here you will find vivid, natural colors of Amethyst, Peridot, Turquoise and Garnet that just seem to come alive in our desert southwest. I've spoken a while back about our Sleeping Beauty Turquoise and our Copper mining that we have in our state, so today I'm going to tell you about the Amethyst mine that we have just east of downtown Phoenix. As a little girl, I was raised in Scottsdale on the edge of town and the Salt Rive Indian Reservation. From that point east there was nothing to obstruct the view of the Four Peaks mountains. At night we could see the lights way up on the side of the mountain, between the two southern peaks. This is where the mine is located. You can see the mine is this photo towards the right between the two most southern peaks.

The Four Peaks Lode as it is commonly known, was discovered back in the 18th century. It is one of the most unique gem mines in the world. Now, after many years of inactivity, the mine is being worked and we will again see the helicopter flights. You see, this mine is in a very remote spot up on the side of a mountain about 60 miles east of Phoenix, up about 7,100 feet in elevation. The location of the amethyst mine is at one of the most remote and rugged parts of the Mazatzals mountains, the Four Peaks Wilderness Area in the Tonto National Forest. Therefore, the only way in is by foot trails or helicopters. All the mining is done by hand for the most part and the precious uncut Amethyst is carried out by mules or helicopters. The miners usually stay there in the mine shafts for protection up to seven days at a time, then they either hike back out with their mules or take a helicopter ride back to the valley floor.

Amethyst is known for it's extremely powerful and protective strengths. It has strong healing and cleansing powers and enchances spiritual awareness. For centuries, amethyst has been considered the royal gem because of its color. Purple was the emblem of rank or authority and the color most often associated with European monarchs. It has been reported through Spanish history that significant shipments of these gems found their way into crown jewels of five countries back in the 18th century.

The Mineralogical Record of March 1976 describes the process by which these crystals were formed. "The amethyst of this deposit occur in linings of voids in faults of the Mazatzal quartzite. The voids were intermittently filled with hot liquid solutions from intrusions below. Successive stages of quartz deposition occurred, as evidenced by alternating concentric rings of colorless quartz, hematite and amethyst around the angular fragments." The purple color that enhances the quartz is caused by the presence of manganese in these hot solutions that flooded the cavities in the uplifted peaks millions of years ago. The more valuable darker colors reflect a higher manganese content. The value is also dependent upon its clarity or lack of foreign material in the solution as it was being deposited.

It is known that a prospector named Jim McDaniels did rediscover the deposit about 1900. He was following a quartz "float", usually a good precursor to gold. Instead he found the canyon floor littered with purple crystals. This is what gives the Four Peaks that purplish look. Gold and silver were the only objectives of most prospectors in those days so the site was merely noted and left untouched. They didn't start mining this site until the 1940's and it was active for about 50 years. They closed the mine then, but recently it has been reopened again and the mining has continued.

Arizona is probably the only state in the U.S. which produces top quality stones, according the Ken Phillips Chief Engineer for the Arizona Department of Mines and Mineral Resources Department. He further says, "The best amethyst from the Four Peaks mine is considered to be as good as that found anywhere in the world." Another reference book, Mineralogy in Arizona, states, "Superb gem-quality amethyst of a rich, red-violet color was produced from the Four Peaks mine and rivals the best Siberian material, which is the standard of the gem trade."

I am the proud owner of a piece of this precious Amethyst that came from this mine. It is really exquisite! It measures about 6 inches by 4 inches in diameter. It's quite a big specimen. Honestly, I'm not sure how my family acquired this amethyst, but it was my brother who brought it into the family. While he was in college he was studying Geology, and his class would travel all over the state for geology expeditions. As you can see, it's a rough cut, this is how it comes out of the mine. But it has the richness of the deep purples and light lavenders. It truly is breathtaking.

I hope you enjoyed reading about Amethyst in Arizona. Next I'll do some research on the Peridot and Garnets in our state.

Have a great day!

Peace~

Wordless Wednesday~

2009-09-02T06:04:00.006-07:00

Butterfly, butterfly, take me away.......

5 x 5 square photograph - Butterfly on flowers by
Stephanie Grutzmach

8x10 Photograph Lilac and Butterfly by lisajulia

Butterfly and Purple Flower Photo by Rossie107

Have a great day!

Peace~

BOGO 1/2 OFF SALE

2009-08-30T14:36:00.003-07:00

I'm having a BOGO Sale This Weekend! You can buy one item at regular price and get another one of equal or lesser value half off. This includes my Clearance section too. What a steal!!! So come on by and see what you can find!

Here is a new beautiful lapel pin that I have recently listed. It's made of genuine copper, formed into a heart and then I wire wrapped turquoise and sterling silver beads around. It really is a stunning pin.

Hope you all are having a great weekend. We are still very hot here, kind of hard to tell that fall is coming. I know it's right around the corner, but you could have fooled me!

Have a very Blessed day!

Peace~

Wordless Wednesday~

2009-08-26T12:55:00.012-07:00

For all those desert dwellers, here's some coolness for a day!

Cardinal in the Snow- 8x8 Fine Art Photograph byara133photography

Winter Wildfire - Red Fox - 8x10 Original Fine Art Photograph
by NatureIsArt

Antarctica, Seal 8 x 10 photo print by GauthierPhotography

Thank you for stopping by!

Peace~

20% Off Everything Sale~

2009-08-23T10:53:00.003-07:00

Today is the last day of my 20% off everything sale in my Etsy Shop! This is including everything that is already on Clearance. So come on by, I'm sure you'll be able to find something for yourself or for a gift for someone else.

This is my newest listing, Sunset. They are beautiful lampwork earrings, fresh water pearls and Swarovski crystals. A fabulous pair of earrings for the upcoming fall season!

Have a great day!

God Bless~

Wordless Wednesday ~ Isn't This Heaven?

2009-08-19T05:55:00.000-07:00

Chewy Choco Cookie Drops by OliveStudio

Irish Whiskey Truffles by denisesdelectables

1/2 lb Chocolate Caramels 8 oz by CaramelJubilee

Have a great day!

Peace~

New Blog Design...Angels

2009-08-17T16:26:00.011-07:00

Angels....So where does the word angels come from? The word angels is derived from the Greek word angelos, which means messenger. Malakh, the Hebrew word for angel, also means messenger, and both words nicely coincide with the Persian word for angel, angaros, similarly meaning a courier. The Holy Bible tells us they are messengers from God, spiritual beings and refers to different types of angels, with varying duties. Some angels are guides, some are protectors, and others are messengers of the Lord. Many believe that angels watch over us to protect us from birth to death, to guide and protect us throughout our lives. Our Guardian Angels. There are those who believe there are the Angels of Death who are at their bedside as they are dying just waiting to take them to Heaven.

Then there are those who are on this earth just like you and I, just waiting to help someone out. They are our earthly angels. You never know when you will need help someday form one of these angels.

Since I believe in angels and feel on several occasions that I've been helps by them, I decided to change my blog to this angel background. It's comforting to me. I hope it is to you too.

Whatever your beliefs are in angels, you have to believe in this little one. Isn't she just the most adorable little angel you've even seen? She's Heavenly! Her mother made the darling angel costume she has on. If you'd like to see more of her beautiful costumes, visit her Etsy site. Sassy*Girl*Boutique

"Not all Saints have Halos and not all Angels have wings."
God Bless~

New Listing ~ Hearts Desires Pin

2009-08-13T05:31:00.005-07:00

Good Morning Everyone!

I have a new listing on Etsy. She's beautiful! Her name is Hearts Desires. She's a pin or some may call her a brooch, but whatever you choose to call her, she'll live up to that name. She's made of genuine copper and formed into a heart shape. Then she carries with her a gorgeous artisan handmade lampwork bead in shades of red, purple and a little bit of white swirled within. To top her beauty off, she has a amethyst and garnet gemstone added to the lampwork bead. She's a hardy pin, not one of those whimpy pins, she will do just fine for a heavier scarf or shawl. She loves to be shown off, so if you choose to take her home, be sure to show her proudly. She won't let you down! You an find her in her temporary home on Ctbydonna.etsy.com.

Have a great day!

Peace~

~Wordless Wednesday~

2009-08-11T23:25:00.007-07:00

Here are a few of my favorite places I'd like to visit

listed here on Etsy.

Sailboats Shrouded in Mist by Kristen4

Sweet Serenity by SkyeCreations

Stairway to Sunscreen - by tnoble8238

Diet Monday! Oops, Life Style Change Monday!

2009-08-10T06:13:00.001-07:00

I've started a new "life changing experience" about four weeks ago. It's a life style change, I keep telling myself. It's a new way of thinking about food and how I eat it, when I eat it and the quantity I eat. It's very healthy and that's going to be better for me in the long run. Right? OK, it's a diet! I just didn't want to use that nasty word!!! Who likes the word....."diet"? It has so many bad vibes. Nobody likes to say, "No thank you, I'm on a diet." So in my case, I just kept on eating whatever was offered, and now I need to loose some weight. I kept telling my husband that I could eat anything, just look at me, I don't seem to be gaining. Only he would come back with, "Turn around, I'm sure you'll find it!"

So it's time for me to make a life style change. I like that a whole lot better! Don't you? Well I started four weeks ago and I've already lost 17 pounds. It's not an easy diet, opps, that nasty word, it's not an easy life style change, but in the long run it will be worth it. I'm working with doctors to change my thinking about food. I've discovered that I'm a stress eater and believe me, I must be stressed all the time because I'm always eating! So now I eat very little calories a day, I'm in Ketosis, I'm eating up my own fat daily. Love it! When in Ketosis you don't have an apetite. I like the sound of that! I eat protein and certain veggies. That's it. I have some sauces from Sprouts, it's a whole foods store around here. They are calorie free, carb free, no fat and no sugar. They are from Walden Farms, I'll include their link here. They have this chocolate sauce that is to die for! So I just put some in an ice cube tray and freeze it. It's like eating fudgecicles. They are the greatest! But what I really missed, was my coffee in the morning. Oh, I can have coffee, but no cream. Bummer! So I've come up with this idea. I make really strong coffee, put it in my smoothie machine, add ice, Splenda and some chocolate sauce. It is delicious! I can have it all day long, no calories, sugar nor carbs! What else do I want? Seriously, it is really good and I make one every morning. Love it!

Now, if I can come up with something with the two egg whites I have to eat every morning. Those are the worst!

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend and have a great week!

Peace~

20% Off Sale This Weekend Friday Through Sunday

2009-08-08T19:24:00.006-07:00

I'm having a 20% off sale in my Etsy shop in honor of back to school this weekend. Everything in my shop is 20% off, including those items that are already on clearance sale. That's a really good deal that can't be passed up!

So come on by and take a peek, you never know what you mind find. I'm sure there is something just waiting to go home with you!

To see the necklace you see here, just click on the picture and it will take you to the listing.

Have a great weekend!

Peace~

20% Off Sale This Weekend Friday Through Sunday

2009-08-06T22:01:00.005-07:00

Come join the sale in my Etsy shop, Ctbydonna this weekend. I am having a 20% off everything in my shop from 8-7-09 through 8-9-09! You can't beat that! That includes even the items that are on Clearance. You can't beat that!

Do come on by and see what you can find. I'm sure there are some treasures just lurking about that you can't live without!

These earrings are called "Chocolate Mint". These earrings and many more can be found in my Etsy shop.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Peace~

~New Listing - Violet~

2009-08-02T22:49:00.003-07:00

While I was sitting around this weekend not doing much, I decided to make this pair of earrings. I love to make clusters, they are so pretty. So Violet was born. She's really pretty, don't you think? She loves to show off her gems, as in stones. Now don't go thinking something different! She's made of artisan handmade lampwork beads, amethyst, garnets and sterling silver. You can find her temporary home in my etsy shop. Just click on her name and she'll be happy to show off her gems!

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend. We did, our daughter and her family from San Diego were in town. We had a wonderful time with the kids in the pool. They sure love that water!

Have a great day!

Peace~

~WEEKEND DEALS ~ July 31 - Aug. 2nd ~

2009-07-30T22:28:00.007-07:00

I'm having a 20% off everything "Weekend Deals" in my Etsy Shop from July 31 to Aug. 2nd. Everything in my Etsy shop is on sale, including my Clearance already on sale.

So come on by and see what you can find. Just make sure you list in the notes to the seller, "Weekend Deals" and wait for a revised invoice.

Hope you all have a great weekend!

Peace~

Whispers on Ctbydonna

~Wordless Wednesday~

2009-07-28T22:05:00.008-07:00

From some of Arizona's best artists.

Antelope Canyon
by dreamimage

Stoneware Pottery Chip and Queso Set by
mudpuppypotteryworks

Pink and White Tutu Skirt by
BabyBTutuBoutique

Have a great day!

Peace~

New Earrings! Meet Space!

2009-07-27T12:33:00.003-07:00

This pair of earrings turned out looking like little green space ships. Don't you think? But you won't find little green men hanging around! LOL!

These are made with green lampwork by a glass artist who put a fine line of sterling silver around the beads. Fresh water pearls and Swarovski crystals finish off these little space ships. All findings are sterling silver found on earth.

If you would like to see more of them, I'm sure they won't mind, just check out where they landed. Space on Etsy.

Hope you are having a great Monday!

Peace~

~Weekend Sale BOGO 1/2 off~

2009-07-25T00:26:00.012-07:00

WEEKEND BOGO 1/2 OFF SALE

Earrings only in my Etsy Shop Are On Sale! For this weekend only, July 24th - 26th, buy one pair of earrings at the regular price and get a second pair of earrings of equal or lesser value at 1/2 off! Just mention "Weekend Deals" in the message box to seller and wait for a revised invoice.

Thank you and I hope you are having a great weekend!

Peace~

~Wordless Wednesday~

2009-07-22T06:18:00.005-07:00

"Give Her Some Happiness"

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Truffles by

LittleSnowflakes

Shea Butter Cupcake Soap scented

Sugary Pink Kisses by CozyMoments

HAPPINESS handmade stamped pure copper

gemstone bracelet by CindyPack.

Mother and Child New Earrings

2009-07-20T22:41:00.003-07:00

I just finished this pair of earrings over the weekend. When I was done with them they just reminded me of something that I couldn't put my finger on. My daughter came over and said that they look like a mother holding her child. My husband on the other hand, said that they looked more like a bun in the oven! So much for asking him anymore!

These earrings are a made to order pair of earrings. Just let me know what color crystal or gemstone you might want and I'll let you know if that can be done. You can find them in my Etsy shop. Creative Treasures by Donna.

Hope you all have a great week.

Peace~

Future Ballerinas~

2009-07-19T22:52:00.008-07:00

This evening, my daughter and I were having a conversation about when she and her sister were young and they were into dance. We spent hours, not to mention the money that was spent, on their dance. Our older daughter was into ballet, while the younger daughter was into jazz and tap. I even learned how to make tutu's and was the wardrobe mistress for about three years. Our older daughter had tried out for a chance to go to New York City and take classes at the famous Joffrey Ballet. She was one of the eight who were chosen out of about 150 who tried out. She had a wonderful time, really learned a lot. She then went onto the Houston Ballet and danced there for several years. When she was 16 she realized that she couldn't go any further, she had damaged her knees from all the abuse that ballerinas have on their bodies. She decided to do the drill team at her high school instead. I guess that was an easy trade off! Our younger daughter decided that track and field, running and jumping hurdles and boys was her thing. So she left the dance scene too. So after 9 years of taking someone here or there, fix this tutu, get these all altered in two days, finding special point shoes because one of your daughters has weird feet, all night rehearsals, driving here or there, it was sort of a relief when we didn't have to do it anymore. LOL! I still miss it though.......

Now we have another ballerina in the family, sort of, one of my grand daughters. She has taken two years of dance so far, but is taking a rest, she says. She's doing cheer now. I still long for that little ballerina. Maybe one of my grand daughters will go into the dance world. That would be nice. Here is a picture of me and my grand daughter at her rehearsal. Isn't she adorable? :-)

The lovely picture of this peaceful baby in the tutu above is by paisleyandposies. Isn't she just the most precious baby you ever saw? Please check out her shop, she has some amazing things for children and adults. Love those tutus!

Hope you all have a great Monday! And for those of you who live in the southwest deserts, stay indoors where it's cool!

Peace~

~SUPER SALE JULY 17th - 19th~

2009-07-17T00:10:00.000-07:00

* ENTIRE ETSY SHOP ON SALE THIS WEEKEND ONLY!*

20% OFF everything in my shop, Creative Treasures by Donna, including my Summer Clearance section. Sale is good from July 17 - 19th. FREE Shiping this weekend only for everyone! International buyers, if you want to upgrade your shipping, there would be an extra charge for that service. Convo me and I'll give you that extra charge. Mention in the buyers notes upon checking out, "Super Sale" and I'll send you a revised invoice with your discount.
Thank you!

These earrings are called Hushed. You can find them in my etsy shop, Ctbydonna.

Have a great weekend!

~Peace~

~Inspirational Thursday~

2009-07-16T05:30:00.011-07:00

"Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved. "
~Helen Keller

This photos is part of a set of notes cards, called Sunrise, made by JoannBristol. Her photography is stunning to say the least. You can find her artwork at JoannBristol on Etsy.

Have a great day!

Peace~

~Wordless Wednesday~

2009-07-15T05:36:00.001-07:00

Pink Dahlia - by intrinsicvalue

Blue Orchids - by mfilonow

Yellow Bloom - by stardelunaphoto

I Want It To Snow!

2009-07-13T22:33:00.009-07:00

This past weekend had gone to San Diego, CA to visit with our daughter and her family. Our son in law is in the Navy and was out to sea for the past six months and returned last week. Plus our grandsons and grand daughter were baptized on Sunday. So we had quite a few blessings to celebrate while there. I was a nice reprieve from what was going on at home. You see, I live in the southwest desert. It got a bit, shall we say..."toasty" while we were gone! It was 115 on Saturday! Yep, I wrote that right! It was a rather cool 90 in San Diego. Loved it.

Now coming home we stopped Yuma, AZ to get gas. When I stepped out of the car I thought my
shoes and the pavement were going to become ONE! It was so dang HOT! I went into the stop to get some cool drinks when the lady said that it was 118. You read that right...118!!! I thought someone forgot to tell me I had died and where I just went! Unbelievable! All I could think about was snow, how I wished I was in SNOW!

So we leave Yuma after we got some ice cream, which by the way is another story, but you learn to eat it FAST! So we travel just a little bit down Interstate 8 when we come upon a Border Patrol stop. They are all a long the way. Just coming from Phoenix to San Diego we hit three of them. So, they stop all the traffic, to one lane. You can guess what happened here. People's cars and trucks were overheating, they had to turn them off. Luckily our car did not overheat. But I sure felt sorry for those who did while we sat there for 55 minutes waiting our turn to get checked out by the Border Patrol and the dogs. Again....SNOW!!!!

When we made it back home, it was 9:30 at night and it was still 101 outside. LOL! I jumped in the pool to cool off!

The first piece of artwork is, After The Storm by Wildartsweb.

The second piece of artwork, Winter Solitude, by DLTaylorArt.

Have a great and cool day. Stay indoors with the AC cranked up!
Peace~

~Artisan Beaders Street Team~

2009-07-08T05:12:00.007-07:00

Artisan Beaders Mission Statement...

Begin with a passion for beads. Combine with creativity. Mix with encouragement. The result is Artisan Beaders; a charismatic group committed to providing the knowledge, resources and support to help members succeed in their entrepreneurial dreams.

Artisan Beaders: Infinite Inspiration.

We are a group of beaders who all share a common interest...beads. We have a wide variety of artisans, from designers, lampwork artists, polymer clay artists, bead weavers, maybe a goat or two (?) and to soap makers. You'll have to read our blog to find out the goat stories.

So come on by our blog, Artisan Beaders and see what treasures you will find.

Peace~

Tourmaline three Strand Necklace with a Gold Fill Clasp Rainbow by Broken Teepee Designs

Roots cuff - polymer clay by Karooart

Lemon Drops . Earrings

Orion Designs by Vicki Orion

My New Creation...Mystic~

2009-07-06T22:41:00.003-07:00

Mystic is a lovely handmade pair of earrings made with entirely sterling silver and copper wire. I started with some copper wire, then I wire wrapped it with very fine sterling silver wire. There are silver and copper balls in various sizes wire wrapped with sterling silver wire on the lower part of the earrings. Then the earrings were oxidized and tumbled to harden and polish the wires. The earrings are 2 3/4 inches in length.

You can find these earrings and many more in my Etsy Shop.

Hope you have a great day!

Peace~

Scenic Sedona~

2009-07-06T05:00:00.003-07:00

We are very fortunate enough to live near the scenic Sedona, AZ, the land of the red rocks. My sister in law and her family live there. So we try to go up there as often as we can and I'm always surprised by some new adventure that I haven't discovered before. We love it up there. It is so beautiful to be among the pine trees, red rocks, rivers with actual running water, fishing, swimming in the famous Sliding Rock, and just the peacefulness the place creates. My sister in law sent me this video of Sedona that I would like to share with you all. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I have.

God Bless~

Happy Fourth of July ~ Our Independence

2009-07-03T16:00:00.014-07:00

We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

US Declaration of Independence

Hope you all have a safe and happy holiday!

Peace~

Donna

I've been featured!

2009-07-01T20:52:00.008-07:00

I just thought I'd share with all of you that I'm being featured on Made By Hand.by me. These various artists here, sell on 1000 Markets. We all belong to a Market on 1km that is called, "Spirits of the Southwest" Artisans of the Desert. We consist of artists that reside mostly in Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah. This market is based on location, not on southwest style.

The picture below is my featured item. It is made of copper, with Lepidolite, Lavender Crazy Lace Agate and Prehnite gemstones. My bracelet, Copper Glow, is on sale at the moment. It's a great buy. So come on by and take a look around my Creative Treasures by Donna on 1000 Markets. You can also find me on Creative Treasures by Donna on Etsy.

Thank you for stopping by and have a great day

Peace~

Donna

~Wordless Wednesday~

2009-07-01T06:06:00.004-07:00

Purple Lilies - by Dusty Prints

Petals - by Heather M Photography

Busy Bees - by SKnights Art Photograph

Have a Blessed day!

CINDY'S ART AND SOUL CELEBRATION OF SUMMER CHALLENGE!

2009-06-29T21:42:00.007-07:00

My good friend, Cindy Pack of Cindy's Art and Soul, is having a blog Summer Challenge. Cindy is an awesome metal smith artist. I am amazed at what she can create with wire, a hammer and a torch! I am also proud to be the owner of several of her creations. I will cherish them forever. Thank you Cindy!

Ok, this is what you need to do to win $30.00 to spend in either her Cindy's Art and Soul jewelry shop or her Casbeads supply shop on Etsy. Go to her blog, Cindy's Art and Soul, and follow the instructions. Very simple!

This is one of Cindy's new lovely creations, Dream Big. Isn't it just fabulous?

Peace,

Donna

Sunday...Let there be peace!

2009-06-28T00:40:00.010-07:00

“The longer I live the more highly do I estimate the Christian Sabbath, and the more grateful do I feel to those who impress its importance on the community.”

~Daniel Webster

This photo is of the Chapel of The Holy Cross Church in Sedona, Az. It is quite famous actually, it is owned by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix. This photo was taken by, ByNature a shop on Etsy. Stop by their shop, they have fabulous photos.

Enjoy your Sunday with your family.

Peace,

Donna

Premio Meme Award~

2009-06-27T14:17:00.006-07:00

I was awarded this morning the Premio Meme Award from my good friend, Nathalie of Canadian Rockies Art. I am very honored to have received this award from Nathalie. Thank you Nathalie! Make sure you stop by her shop, she's an awesome jewelry designer.

The rules of this award is that I am to give 7 facts about myself and pass it to 7 people. Here we go!

1. I have two grown daughters and five grand children.

2. I have been married for 37 years to my high school sweetheart.

3. I live in the desert southwest, I guess that makes me a desert rat....I hate the desert!

4. I love cats, and my cat owns me!

5. I love to read history books, when I have some spare time, which is not very often.

6. I've made TV commercials while I lived in Houston, in my younger days of course.

7. I love to fish, my husband and I try to get up north as much as possible to fish.

Now to pass this award along to 7 deserving blog owners (in no particular order):
Orion Designs

SignatureSterling

fivetoninedesign

prettywhimsicalthoughts

mariesegal

trudette

alisonkelleydesigns

Have a great day everyone!

Peace~

Needs a good home!

2009-06-26T06:11:00.010-07:00

Meet Goddess of Light! She's in need of a good home. She just loves to shine and sparkle, that's her job. That's all she know to do. She's made for it! Here favorite place to be is on your wrist. She can go anywhere with you. She's a Goddess! Since she's made with clear Swarovski crystals and sterling silver, she's learned to be very adaptable. She loves to be the center of attention and she's known to be a show stopper! She's looking for a good home, so if you are interested in taking her home with you, please come on by her present owners Etsy Shop and give her some love. You'll never regret it. She'll make you very happy forever!

Have a great weekend!

Peace~

Inspirational Thursday ~

2009-06-24T23:24:00.006-07:00

The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature. I firmly believe that nature brings solace in all troubles.

~Anne Frank

I love this photo of the Grand Canyon. This shows the magnificence and beauty of the canyon. This photo was taken by Heidi Hydrick of goldenmountain. She has awesome photos in her Etsy shop.

Peace~

~Wordless Wednesday~ My Etsy Finds

2009-06-23T22:56:00.008-07:00

Rustic Red Birdhouse with Dangling Medallions and Drawer Handle by timesandchimes

Special Edition ttv print Birdhouse by Route3Photography.

Birdhouse Yellow Finches and Songbirds love this house Copper White at BeeGracious on Etsy

Have a great day!

Peace~

"My New Girlfriend! "

2009-06-22T23:08:00.020-07:00

I got an email from my son-in-law yesterday

that said, "My New Girlfriend." This is what I found when I opened up the email. I was so happy that Sarah Palin took time out of her day to visit the USS Stennis to talk with my son-in-law (the on on the right) and the sailors that have been out to sea now for 6 months.

Military life can be very hard on a young families. I know from watching my daughter and her family. They have three small children and from

watching her and the other military families around them, this is real sacrifice. I love my military men and women and I'm very proud of

them. I'm happy to see that she does too.

My son-in-law has been gone for over 6 months now, he's on his way home. He's suppose to be back in San Diego in two weeks. We all will be there to welcome them into port. We are very proud of him. He's an awesome young man!

God Bless our military!

Peace

Inspirational Monday - Faithfulness!

2009-06-21T22:48:00.006-07:00

Faith consists in believing when it is beyond the power of reason to believe. It is not enough that a thing be possible for it to be believed. - Voltaire

This lovely photo was taken by Stephen Bacht of BrachtPhoto on Etsy. He has an eye for photography. His photos are beautiful! Click the picture and it will take you to the listing.

Enjoy your Monday!

Peace~

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T01:00:00.008-07:00

The greatest gift I ever had came from God; I call him Dad! ~Unknown

I know I've been blest to have had the Father that I had. My Dad was the best! He would take my brother, sister and I everywhere with him. We've had some really wild experiences with him too, some I'm sure my Mom would not have approved, but we survived! He taught us some very valuable lessons, and the best of all, how to love! My Dad has been gone for over 17 years now, I miss him very much! I know he's in my heart and I talk to him daily. Dad, I love you very much! Happy Father's Day Dad!

I wish that all the Fathers out there a wonderful, peaceful and loving day. Enjoy your families and the love they bring to you.

Here is one of my favorite Norman Rockwell family scenes. I hope you enjoy it. This is from auntsuesoldnewlovely's Etsy Shop. She has lovely other Norman Rockwell prints and things. Check out her shop, you just might find that something special you've been looking for.

Peace~

New Listing! Meet Tears!

2009-06-19T06:00:00.005-07:00

These are my newest creation listed in my Etsy Shop. I love working with wire and just twisting and turning to see what I get. I really like the way these earrings turned out. Don't you? I wanted a rustic, southwest charm to these earrings. To achieve this, I took very thick gauged copper wire, handmade the teardrop shape, then hammered the wire to give it texture. The links and ear wires are handmade with sterling silver. They were oxidized and tumbled to polish and strengthen the wires. These earrings are 2 3/4 inches in length. Thank you for stopping by and have a very creative day!

Hope you all have a great Friday!

God Bless~

Lovely Blog Award~

2009-06-18T05:59:00.002-07:00

I have to thank Linda of musthaves for nominating my blog for the “lovely Blog Award’. Please check out her blog at: http://must-haves.com/blog3/?author=1 She is an awesome artist!

This is how it works:

1. Add the logo to your blog
2. Link to the person whom you received this award.
3. Nominate 7 or more blogs.
4. Leave a message letting them know that they received the “lovely blog award”

Now it is my turn to pass this award on:

http://fivetoninedesign.blogspot.com/

http://studiomarcy.blogspot.com/

http://gemheaven.blogspot.com/

http://signature-sterling.blogspot.com/

http://thyme2dream.blogspot.com/

http://vickiorion.blogspot.com/

http://pricillaspeaks.blogspot.com/

Enjoy and have fun with it. See how many awards you can get!

Peace~

2009-06-16T22:08:00.015-07:00

~Wordless Wednesday~ Cool Nautical

Vintage Style By the Sea Corner Bookmarks and Matching Stickers by seasonaldelights

Stormy Skies Breaking by watercolorbypamela

Beachchair at Twilight - 8 x 10 Photograph - FREE shipping by MarcinkDesigns

You can visit these artists on Etsy.

Peace~

Should Have Done It Myself!

2009-06-16T12:48:00.003-07:00

A couple of weeks ago my husband and I were having a discussion about keeping our land line phone versus just using our cell phones. I told him that we needed the land line because of the security alarm system goes through the phone lines. Which we replies, "Do we really need the alarm system?" Which I replied with just a look. You all know that look! Then I told him that we needed it for the DSL line, which he replied with, "Can we use the cable company?" Now I knew where we were going with this conversation....he wanted to switch everything over to the cable company. I then told him that would be fine, but we still needed the security alarm, unless he wanted to buy me a big attack dog and a gun, I'd be all for it. Besides we would have to change our emails on everything. A lot of computer work which he's not going to do. Okay, he says, we'll keep the land line, but I'm going to eliminate some of the extras that we have on the line that we don't use. I said that would be fine. So he called them the other day and told me that it was all taken care of. that alone should have set off warning flags! But I didn't say anymore about, went about my business, as usual. Last night we come home from work and I didn't have any Internet service!!! But we have our phone. I asked him just what he cut out of the phone bill, which he said only the things we didn't use. Like I believe that! I call the phone company, they said that he discontinued the Internet! I reinstated it, BUT it will take 24 to 48 hours to get it back, and a reconnection fee. In the mean time, I'm using my computer at work to do my business! MEN!

Next time I'll take care of it! Have a great day!

Peace~

2009-06-15T08:27:00.000-07:00

Peace....I'm hoping for a peaceful Monday. Like many, I'm sure, I hate Mondays! They just seem to be longer than any other day of the week. It just gets so hectic that I find myself praying for a miracle. Don't you feel the same? In my line of work, Mondays are always very busy days. I guess it's sort of paybacks for being gone from the office for the past two days. No breaks for us in the medical profession!

So every Monday I go to work and in the hopes that this Monday will be different. We won't be overworked, actually get a lunch and leave at a descent time. Is that too much to ask for? Man, I love my job!

This beautiful photo was created by Eye On Nature of ionnature.etsy.com. This is a gorgeous photo of a Peace Rose. Check out their shop, they have more lovely photos and cards with gorgeous flowers.

As John Lennon's words say, "You may say I'm a dreamer, but I know that I'm not the only one...." Keep on dreaming of peace, it will happen someday. (But not on Mondays I'm sure!)

Hope you all have a peaceful Monday!

Peace~

Feathers In The Wind

2009-06-13T21:16:00.017-07:00

While I was pondering over what to write in my blog today, I decided to create a pair of new earrings instead. Which I find to be a much easier task for me to do. You see, I don't write very well, I feel that I really don't have all that much to say that would be interesting. I don't lead a very interesting life! I go to work and come home, maybe create or do some housework and that's about it! Pretty boring don't you think?

So to just sit down and create a blog daily is most challenging for me to do. I sort of feel like I'm back in school, and we won't go there about my school academics, or the lack of them! Maybe that's part of the problem, I should have been learning how to write instead of daydreaming! I would also assume that I'm not the only one out there that has this problem. Right? So if you would bare with me, I'll eventually get the hang of this blogging thing and keep up on a regular basis. In the mean time, here's a pair of my new earrings that I listed this evening on Etsy. So not all of today was a loss!

Feathers In The Wind Earrings are made with Sleeping Beauty Turquoise gemstones and sterling silver. Click on the name and it will take you to the listing in my Etsy Shop.

Hope you all are having a great weekend!

Peace~

2009-06-11T12:54:00.003-07:00

What is a Yart Sale you might ask? Well, it is Art + Yard Sale = Yart Sale. Now you have a sale!

Join in the fun! Check out my YART Sale in my Etsy Shop. This sale will be going on through Sunday, June 14th. Just click on the YART SALE section on the right side of the page on Etsy and it will lead you to my sale. You can also search for YART SALE and find many, many other artist who are participating in our sale. I've already had a sale! Woo Hoo!

Hope you all are having a great day!

Peace,
Donna

(think YART SALE)!

YART SALE on Etsy!

2009-06-09T23:29:00.003-07:00

You might be asking yourself, "What is a Yart Sale?" Well, Yart is an artistic spin on the traditional yard sale:

Art + Yard Sale = Yart!

This years 2nd annual Yart Sale is sponsored by the Etsy Supply Street Team (ESST) on Etsy. It will take place June 10 through June 14, 2009. Everyone with a shop on Etsy is invited to participate!

I have a lot of items listed under the YART SALE section in my Etsy shop. I've also listed the link here. I'm cleaning shop so I have room for new styles in the near future.

I hope to see you at the sale! Enjoy yourself!

Peace,
Donna

Inspirational Tuesday ~ Courage

2009-06-09T05:55:00.000-07:00

"One isn't necessarily born with courage, but one is born with potential. Without courage, we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can't be kind, true, merciful, generous, or honest."
- Maya Angelou

I think we all need a little courage, don't you? Hope you all have a great a Tuesday.

Peace,
Donna

Birthdays! Out of the Mouths of Babes!

2009-06-08T00:10:00.001-07:00

This past weekend it was my sister's birthday. Now she's nine years younger than me. And as you can suspect, we don't tell our ages. This has worked for a long time now. We'd have parties and when someone would have the nerve to ask us how old we were, we'd reply with that standard phrase, "Oh me? I'm 29 years old." This has worked well for the longest time. BUT, yesterday when my nephew asked how old his mom was, she replied, "Why, I'm 29 years old." That's when I piped up that I must be 38 years old then. Man, I'm liking this story! So my little grand daughter who is standing there listening to all of this says, "Grandma, how can you be 38 and Aunt Judy is 29 when my Mommy (my daughter) is 34?" Ok, who invited this little kid to the party? So now we told her that Aunt Judy is actually 39 years old and I'm really 48 years old. It worked for her, so that's our story and we're sticking to it! ;)

I thought I'd share with you all what I made for my sister. I know the trend in jewelry seems to be more wire, so I made her a wired wrapped bracelet and earrings. Here's the finished product. What I did was take copper wire, form the hearts, then connected them all together. I oxidized the bracelet and earrings and then tumbled them for strength and shine for about 4 hours. They sure did turn out shiny. Just beautiful! In the end, my sister, who was 29, then quickly turned 39 loved her birthday present.

Hope you all have a great Monday!

Peace

Puppy Love~Kitty Love

2009-06-06T13:51:00.000-07:00

With the economy the way it has become, we are finding more and more animals out on the street. These animals don't know how to fend for themselves. They've been some body's pet and taken care of. The shelters are becoming overcrowded very quickly. Our Maricopa County East Valley Shelter is the 2nd largest in the country, they take in 50,000 dogs & cats each year. Isn't this little guy here the cutest thing you ever saw? He and his little brother would love to go home with you.

We have very close friends who have a passion for these lost or homeless animals in our community. Our friends, Cindy and Matt Vandiver, volunteer to take photographs of the adoptable dogs and cats to be used on the shelter's website, hoping that all will find a home. All of their prints start out as photographs of the shelter's dogs and cats which they transform them through the use of their digital paintbrush into colorful pop art prints. Read their stories. These animals have survived, they are so full of love, just needing a family to give it to. Here are a few of their prints from their etsy shop, Paw Prints Project, tails from the pound. They also give 10% of each sale back to the shelter.
"I Want My Momma" This little kitty is saying.
Irresistible You Know You Want One
This is a lucky little guy, he was adopted.

"All I Ever Wanted Was You"

"Waiting For You"

"Only A Face A Mother Could Love"
I hope you enjoy looking at Cindy's photos as much as I do. These animals need so much love and they come with a guarantee to give you much love in return.

Have a great day!
Donna

Whispers on Etsy!

2009-06-01T19:52:00.008-07:00

Whispers....they just seem to whisper in the wind. Can you hear them? They tell a story if you listen. These earrings are very light and made with sterling silver and Apatite faceted gemstones. I hand formed the teardrop shape then hand wired the tiny gemstones around the earrings. I then oxidized them to give them that rustic look. They have been tumbled to polish them up and give the wires strength. Whispers are 2 3/4 inches in length. The teardrop part is 1 1/4 inches in width. These are a wonderful pair of earrings. They would look good with so many outfits, from casual to dressy. It's your choice.

Hope you all had a great weekend. We went to our timeshare and did some fishing. It was great! Cold, can you say sleet and snow in May in AZ? Yep, we had strong winds, lightening, snow, sleet, hail and rain, lots of rain! And we kept right on fishing! LOL! Yep, we are fishing fools! We did catch our fish for the day and went back to our room and warmed up! Loved every minute of it. Hated to come back down the mountain to the desert.

Have a great day!

Peace,
Donna

Sedona...an Experience!

2009-05-26T21:20:00.007-07:00

We finally made it back home late last night. It was a glorious trip! It always is when we go up to Sedona. I just love it up there. We go every Memorial Weekend, it's a family thing. My husband's sister and her family live in Sedona. The boys golf and us ladies shop! Personally I think we get the better end of the deal! LOL!

It's always very busy up there this time of the year and will be until around September. Then it seems to calm down again. But the majestic beauty of the red rocks along with all the greenery is just fabulous! The picture I've chosen to add to this blog is the infamous Cathedral Rock. It truly is beautiful!

If you want to take a tour, there's always the Pink Jeep tours available. Then there are numerous hiking trails all over the place. If you want to fish, that's there too. There is plenty of fishing be done along the Oak Creek River. If you have time, you can go just a little bit up 89A and you'll come across Sliding Rock. It really is a lot of fun. Go a little farther up that route and there are all sorts of camping and lodges along the Oak Creek on your way up the canyon to Flagstaff. It really is a beautiful drive. Then if all that fails or bores you, then you have all the shopping and eating places you can handle. The most famous is Tlaquepaque. It has a bit of everything there for you. It really is a shopping experience!

I hope you all get a chance to go to Sedona, you won't be disappointed. I promise!

God Bless,
Donna

Summer Is Here!

2009-05-20T21:46:00.001-07:00

I know some of you just live for the summers. I happen to not like the summers. It's just way to hot to enjoy yourself, unless you are sitting in a pool, or maybe you are a lizard! Here's a picture of what I look at everyday, only this was taken in the spring, all that green you see, it's now all brown. Pretty boring!

So this is how my day went. I got to work and it was already hot in the building. But it was getting pretty warm outside already so the AC had to work on overdrive to get it comfortable again. Then at lunch I had to go out for an appointment. But I had forgotten that when I parked my car to make sure the sun wouldn't be shining in the front window of the car or on the drivers side. So I reached for the handle and burned my hand, forgot to put my hot pad in my purse so I wouldn't burn my hand! So I had to take my shirt and use it as a hot pad, you think I'm kidding don't you? I'm dead serious! Once I finally get in the car, I had forgotten to put up the sun screen, so now I can't touch the steering wheel. Can't take my shirt off to use it now can I? So I searched in the car and found a plastic bag in the glove compartment. Great idea! I wrapped that around the steering wheel. But by the time I got to my appointment, and this is no lie, the plastic bag was stuck to the steering wheel! I tried to pull it off, but it just stretched more. I just left it and went back to the cool building, but when I came out after work, it was still there. It just melted even more! LOL! I still have pieces of plastic flapping around the steering wheel. Oh, how I hate the summers living in the desert!

Hope some of you are enjoying yours! Some day I'll tell you all about the day we, fried eggs on the sidewalk. Our mom didn't think it was very funny!

Peace,
Donna

Bliss - New Listing

2009-05-02T20:07:00.000-07:00

This was a very hard necklace to photograph. As you can see, it's white and I shoot my pictures on a white background. So it was a bit difficult. I used multi-faceted rock crystal with faceted apatite and multi-faceted amethyst. The rest of the necklace is sterling silver. The necklace is adjustable from 16 inches up to 18 3/8 inches. The drop in the center is 1 3/8 inches in length. This necklace would be perfect for a bride, or a bridesmaid, maybe even the mother of the bride. Or maybe you have a special event to go to and this would be perfect for that event. Whatever it is, this necklace would be a show stopper! You may visit Bliss and many more at Creative Treasure by Donna.

Hope you all are enjoying your weekend. It's pretty warm here and getting worse, like in the 100's by the end of the week. I'm thrilled!

Peace,
Donna

Hello!

2009-04-27T09:25:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've posted. It's been crazy around here. Working too much for my own good! LOL! Seriously, with flu season I've been really busy at work and long hours. I've not had much time to update sites, let alone create!

So, I've taken a three day weekend, and loving every minute of it! I'm also going to be taking a three day weekend next weekend too. That's even be better. I did manage to make a few new things and get them listed. Check them out. Here's my new Copper Queen necklace. And then I made a beautiful brooch, or shawl pin. This one was a bit harder to photograph. I didn't have a scarf to put the pin through for the photos. After all, I live in the desert and we don't wear scarves. LOL! So meet Sedona.

Hope you all have a great week! Smile, it's contagious! Beside, people will wonder what you are smiling at!

Peace~

Spring?

2009-04-01T06:15:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone!

It's been a while since I've posted. Been a bit busy to say the least. Work has really kicked my butt, it's flu season, so we are seeing an unusual amount of patients. So by the time I drag myself home in the evenings, I'm just too tired to do anything.

Ok, spring....well we had spring for a while several weeks ago, then it was early summer, even had to turn the AC on and then now we are back to spring! Weird! Wish Mother Nature would make up her mind. LOL! I do have to say, this is the only time I do like the desert, it's really pretty with the cactus blooming and all the pretty flowers on the desert floor. The only problem is, they bring along a whole load of allergies! LOL! But still, it's a sight to see.

Hope you all have a great day. I promise to be by again soon. I do have a lot of new listings. I'll post them here later on the weekend. But you can always come by my Etsy shop or my 1000 Markets Shop.
Peace~

Roll Out The Red Carpet! ArtBead Divine Jewelry Market Has Arrived!

2009-02-23T05:43:00.000-07:00

Artbead Divine Jewelry Market (ADJ) has finally gone live! We are a group of fellow merchant jewelry artisans who have a common love for lampwork beads on 1000markets. We are dedicated to making awesome jewelry with handmade artisan designed lampwork beads. We may combine our creations with gemstones, pearls, crystals, sterling silver and copper. We are a talented group of artisans who offer uniqueness and creativity.

Artbead Devine Jewelry Market.

Have a great day!

Peace, Donna

Valentine's Day Sale, Artisan Beaders Way!

2009-01-21T20:43:00.000-07:00

"Chocolate, Flowers and Lace"
Artisan Beaders Street Team Sale ~ January 18th through February 14th ~

Come on by and join in our sale. Search "absteamsale" to find more items from our Artisan Beaders Street Teams members.

Peace~

Hello!

2009-01-17T16:37:00.000-07:00

I've been missing in action for a while. Been a very busy week at work. But I think things are going to settle down for the most part this next week. Maybe even back to some normalcy. I'm hoping!

I've list a new bracelet this weekend to my Etsy site. The bracelet is called, Goddess Of Light. She's beautiful. I used Swarovski cystals and sterling silver. Oh how she sparkles. This bracelet would be go with anything, and for any occasion.

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and will be here before you now it! You just might find something special for the special someone in your life. So come on by and take a peek at my Etsy site.

Have a great weekend!

Peace~

Hello!

2009-01-10T18:15:00.001-07:00

It's been a while since I've been able to post here. Been very busy. Heck, I just got the Christmas tree undone today. The dang thing is still standing up, but all the ornaments are put away. I feel like I'm just way behind this year. I had the tree up since Thanksgiving weekend, but didn't get ornaments on the tree until the weekend before Christmas. Where does our time go? I know I'm working this year where as the past two years I wasn't, BUT, that's no excuse. I'm just way behind in a lot of things.

Im just happy to say that this past holdiay season was a good one. We had a very peaceful and blessed Christmas. The weather did what we all hoped it would do, it was very cool, mazde it felt more like the holidays. In teh past it's been a bit balmy. We had to turn on the AC just so we could have the fireplace on! LOL!

Now it's time to concentrate on 2009, WOW, can't believe it's 2009!!! I'll be taking a soldering course soon. So I hope you will be stopping back soon to see my new creations. I can't wait to start.

I'm also selling on a new sight! 1000markets Hope you have the time to stop by.

Have a great week everyone!

Peace~

Artisan Beaders Street Team's Giveaway!

2008-12-29T20:39:00.000-07:00

I belong to a wonderfully awesome Street Team on Etsy. We have been giving away gorgeous creations for several weeks now. This is our last one and it happens to be a pair of pearl earrings from me. They feature freshwater pearls, Swarovski crystals, and sterling silver findings, and measure 1 5/8th inches long. These are so lovely because they are versatile - perfect to carry you from day to night!

How to enter to win:

All you have to do is visit my shop on Etsy, Creative Treasures by Donna, then leave a comment on our Street Team blog page with a link to your favorite item. We will be picking the winner** on Friday, January 2nd, at 5:00pm EST, so you have until then to leave a comment. The winner will be announced shortly after, so make sure you check back Friday night. Thanks for playing!

* If you don't have a Blogger account, please leave your email address or a way to contact you if you win.
** Winning name will be randomly chosen by using Random.org.

Thank you for stopping by and have a safe Happy New Year!

God Bless~

Sleeping Beauty Mountain With Snow!

2008-12-28T16:02:00.000-07:00

This is Sleeping Beauty Mountain, the infamous turquoise mountain. This mountain is about 45 minutes from my home in the far southeast part of the Phoenix Valley. This is looking at it from the head down to the feet. You can't get the effect of the sleeping beauty which is what the mountain is known for. Isn't it beautiful with the snow on it?

What people don't realize is that it isn't a mine where you go into the side of a mountain or underground. The Sleeping Beauty Mine is just a side of the mountain that they blast part of it away and then they pull out the precious turquoise stones. The Sleeping Beauty Mountain was originally mined for copper and gold, but now the mine is closed to the public and mined solely for the turquoise. The mine was one of the largest producers in the world of turquoise. But now it only produces amounts of very small nuggets all of which need to be hardened.

Sleeping Beauty Turquoise is solid stone, no matrix and ranges in color from royal blue to a very light sky blue. To find natural Sleeping Beauty Turquoise is rare now a days. Most turquoise out there has been treated in some sort of way. So it is important that you know what you are looking at and who the seller is. Natural stone has not be changed in any way. The Stablilized stone has been saturated with a hard colorless acrylic or plastic to harden the stone and prevents it from changing colors from body oils and other chemicals. Then there are the Treated stones, they are stabilized and then color enhanced.

We also have Kingman and Bisbee Turquoise in the state. The Kingman Turquoise is still being mined, but the Bisbee Turquoise is not. So if you find any turquoise from the Copper Queen Mine in Bisbee, then you really do have a rare piece of turquoise. The Copper Queen Mine is for another day, it has a long histroy in world of copper and turquoise.

Hope you all have a great week, and Happy New Year!

Peace~

It's Snowing!

2008-12-18T06:21:00.000-07:00

Good Morning!

We've got snow, well, not here exactly, but up north. The Flagstaff and Grand Canyon area have gotten over a foot of snow as well as other areas in the northern part of the state. The ski resorts, yes we have four ski resorts in the state, are opening this weekend. Down here in the valley, we've had a lot of rain and we'll take it! We need it dearly! But with this little storm system that went through, it's made it more like Christmas, unlike last year when it was very balmy! We had to turn the AC down just to have the fireplace on. LOL! So now that it's more like Christmas, I think I might get out and do some shopping. ;-) Ok.....just kidding. I've just about finished with that last weekend. This weekend I'm baking, just a little. Don't do much of that anymore either.

At any rate, I'm taking a much needed break. I won't be around much for the rest of the year. I'm going to be enjoying my family.

Hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Peace~

Procrastinator.....Who me?

2008-12-13T11:05:00.000-07:00

Who procratinates here? The word procratinate; to put off, to delay. Oh, hummm.....none of us here do that, right? I always have all my ducks in a row, well except for maybe one. At least I don't loose them. The best well laid plans don't always come to fruition, do they? Well, I know my plans don't always come to completion as hard as I try sometimes.

Ok, I haven't done any Christmas shopping yet. Have you? I know I'm not the only one out there, or am I? Aaaa, isn't Christmas in LESS than two weeks? Maybe I should go to the stores. I just HATE shopping, unless it's for myself of course! LOL! And then who doesn't like shopping, right? It was both my daughters birthdays last week, so I just can't seem to get in the spirit of shopping until I'm done with their birthdays. Even though they are adults, married and have children of their own, it's just out of line to think of shopping when their birthdays are upon us. Which brings up another point, why did I have two daughters in the same month, two days apart, and why on earth in December? I swear, I didn't have a thing to do with that! I did get that question for years from them also, why did they have to share their birthdays with each other. Why were their birthdays in December? Gee Mom, couldn't you plan better? They both swore they wouldn't do that to their children, but now one daughter has two children born in June, 10 days apart and the other daughter had twins the first time around. I guess they didn't plan either.

So, back to Christmas shopping...I'm going to start it tomorrow. Seriously, with the economic times that we find ourselves in, we aren't buying gifts for the family. We had a family meeting and we've all decided that we don't need anything. We've pooled our money together and are helping a family in our Church who have four children and not a penny to their names. They both have college degrees but both were laid off of their jobs. Jobs here in AZ are scarce to say the least, as I'm sure they are across this country. But the children don't need to suffer. Since we've started our plan here, we've gotten many people in the our families and friends to join in. We've ended up with a beautiful little nest egg for this family. We are really going shopping tomorrow for them. The young man told us if he gets a job soon, which he's been applying for many, he will pay us all back. We told him to pay it forward to another family in need. Lord knows there are many families in need today.

So I guess it's time to stop the procrastinating and get with the program. Really, I can't wait to go shopping tomorrow. It'll be a family thing, that will be fun. Just wish the temperatures were a bit cooler, it'll feel more like Christmas, not like living in the desert! LOL! Oh, and we will be buying for our own grandchildren, we wouldn't want them to think Grandma and Grandpa are complete looney toons! LOL!

Have a great day!

Peace~

After Thanksgiving Sale!

2008-11-28T23:24:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

For all of you who live in the states, I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Now it's time to get ready for the big one! Christmas! Yep, it's almost here!

I had a One Man Show today and did pretty well considering it was for only two hours. I was a bit reluctant at first to even do the show. But at my sister's urging, I did it. With the economy like it is, I didn't think anyone would want to spend the money on jewelry. That normally wouldn't be considered a priority in these days and times. So I was a bit blown away by the success of the show today. Except for the few orders that I got today, the things that sold today were for gifts for someone else. So I think people are out there buying, just not as much as in the past and not for themselves.

I am offering a special from now through this Sunday. A "Buy One Get One At Half Off". Buy your first item at regular price and then your second item of equal or lesser value is 50% off. You can't beat that! So come on in and take a look around, you just might find something for that special person in your life. Maybe even something for yourself!

Hope you all have a great weekend!

Peace and God Bless

Thank Goodness The Weekend Is Here!

2008-11-22T01:07:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

Man, it's been very busy around here for the past few weeks. I've had to put in a lot of overtime at work. Good when the paycheck comes in, but not so good in my personal time. Which there seems to be none of lately! LOL! I'll try and keep up in the near future.

I hope you all have had a good week. We still are in the 80's here, so no real winter weather yet. It's kind of late in coming this year. With our luck, it'll be cold on Thanksgiving day and Christmas and that's about it! LOL! I really don't like living here! Don't like the desert!

I have listed several new things this past week and hopefully this weekend I'll be able to get the rest listed. I've already sold a couple of the new items too. I'm happy!

Hope you all have an awesome weekend! Hope you come by and take a peek at my etsy shop.

God Bless,
Donna

NEW LISTINGS!

2008-11-09T20:53:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

It's been a very busy last week. I'm hoping this week is better. I did succeed in getting some new earrings listed. Check them out below.

I hope you all are having a great fall! We have finally gotten some cool temps, more like fall weather for us. At least my AC hasn't been on for several days now! We actually heard thunder and saw "some" rain today! WOW, that's weird! Haven't seen rain for months!

Hope you all have a great week.

God Bless,
Donna

ABSTEAM GIVEAWAY

2008-10-27T21:21:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

It's time for our Artisan Beaders Street Team weekly! This is the 2nd week of a series of fabulous Giveaways of wonderful handmade items from the team. Our Giveaway this week is a lovely brooch from Meri of Elbit Enterprises.

Please stop by our Blog and learn how you can enter to win this gorgeous brooch. While you are there in our Blog, be sure to check out our Holiday Gift Guide for some fantastic Holiday gifts!

Hope you all have a great week!

Peace ~
Donna

GIVEAWAY!

2008-10-21T20:29:00.000-07:00

The Artisan Beaders Street Team I'm on is doing a series of weekly giveaways! Starting today, and every Monday for the next few weeks, one of our members is giving away a fabulous item. This week, it's a pair of gorgeous earrings from Broken Teepee Designs.

Aren't they pretty? And they could be YOURS! For more information, and to enter to win, visit our blog. Winner will be picked and announced this Friday.

Hope you all have a great week!

God Bless~
Donna

I'VE BEEN TAGGED!

2008-10-19T22:04:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

Oh dear! I've been tagged by two of my dear sweet friends, Vicki of Orion Designs, and Robin of Bead Nest Designs. I wasn't sure at first what to do, but after reading both their blogs I know now I need to post the rules here and then tag seven more people. This is going around blogland and it will be fun to find out some interesing facts about people. So here are the rules.

1. Link to your tagger and list these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by including links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blogs.

Now... 7 things about me...

1. I live in the very HOT southwest desert of Arizona....and hate it very much! LOL! I've also lived in Minnesota, Louisiana, and Texas. But I was raised here in Scottsdale, Arizona.

2. My husband and I met while in high school. We started dating when I was a sophmore and he was a junior. We've now been married for 36 years. WOW, I've been with the same man for over 40 years now, including the years before we were married! I must be insane! LOL! Just kidding!

3. I Am a nurse and have worked in the medical field for over 30 years now. I'm ready to retire again, which I was for two years.

4. I have two grown daughters and five grandchildren. I LOVE being a grandma, it's the best of the best! If only I could have done that first before I had the girls!

5. Since I have a very stressful job, my stress relief is my making jewelry. I've done this for many years, just started selling my creations only about 10 years ago.

6. I love to go camping up in the mountains, hiking and fishing. Just give me my fishing pole, some worms and I'll be content for hours! And yes, I can clean a fish in no time flat!

7. I HATE to cook, but I love to bake! We are going into my farvorite time of years where I get to do a lot of baking and I give it all away to my family, and friends.

Here are some awesome bloggers, check them out!
1. Breathtakingbracelet
2. Sugabeads
3. Fivetoninedesign
4. Designsbycori
5. Crystalimpressionsjewelry
6. Pawprintsproject

Have fun everyone!

God Bless,
Donna

Artisan Beaders Street Team

2008-10-04T12:38:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Hope you all had a great week! We are going into a busy time of the year aren't we? Seems like there is something going every weekend now. I also wanted to let you all know about this awesome street team on Etsy that I'm part of. Check out our blog at, Artisan Beaders Street Team! I'm sure you'll be able to find something you are looking for. We have a Artisan Beaders Holiday Gift Guide also, be sure to check that out too!

This past week has been very busy. We went to San Diego last weekend and I think I've been playing catch up since. Our granddaighter was very ill and ended up in the hospital the week before. She has Lyme Disease and because of the rash from the bite she ended up with cellulitis. She's only five years old, so she was pretty sick for several days in the hospital. So grandma (me) had to go see her and make sure she was ok. It was also her fifth birthday. So we really enjoyed our birthday time with her and just visiting with the rest of the family.

Hope you all have a great week.

God Bless,
Donna

Summer Is Over!

2008-09-20T11:40:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I'm sure summer is over for most of you, but here in the desert, we are still in the high 90's to low 100's. It just doesn't seem to want to end. It never does! LOL! I still can swim in my pool and lay out if I wanted to, but I'm not interested in that. I want FALL!!!

I haven't had time to make anything new this week. Been putting in some overtime at work. By the time I get home I'm all pooped out! So this weekend I'm going to get busy and see what I can come up with. I need to relieve some stress! Where's my hammer and some wire? I need to do some pounding! LOL!

My youngest granddaughter was in the hospital this week also. She has Lyme Disease and cellulitis in her leg and foot. She's home now and improving rather quickly. Make me very happy! We are going to San Diego next weekend to celebrate her fifth birthday. Can't wait to see her.

Hope you all have a great weekend and next week.

Peace,
Donna

Hurricane Ike!

2008-09-13T01:28:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

WOW! Such a tremendous storm! I use to live in Houston and New Orleans. I'm so glad that I've left there now and live somewhere that doesn't have natural disasters. BUT, I have very close friends who still so live in these two places. I've lost contact with my friends in Houston now. Some I know have been evacuated to downtown Houston. So many people are without power and it's going to be days before they get power back on. So many have lost everything! Galveston, the Strand, such a pretty historic areas of Galveston Island. They are all under water now. I'm just amazed at how this went right smack over Galveston! Please continue to pray for the people effected by this storm!

God bless,
Donna

Creative Treasures by Donna

New Listings

Happy Holidays...Blessing To All

Artfire's Group Deal!

TGIF! Happy Valentine's Day!

Hello! I'm Alive!

Happy New Year!

Peace~

HOLIDAY SALE! 15% OFF EVERYTHING!

Weight Update!

NEW LISTINGS!

CYBER MONDAY SALES!

.•:*¨♥¨*:•. HOLIDAY SALES .•:*¨♥¨*:•.

GRAND OPENING in my Artfire Studio!

Cameras! Can't live with them, nor without them!

Wednesday Feature ~ SpoiledBratzwear

Wordless Wednesday ~ Pampering Yourself!

Boo!

New Earrings ~ Hope

My Newest Creation! Hoops!

New Listing! Peace~

Wordless Wednesday~

New Artfire Studio and Busy Weekend!

WEEKEND SALE!

Wordless Wednesday~

Beware of the Piggies!

Wordless Wednesday~

Been Missing in Action~

Amethyst, the lovely purple stone~

Wordless Wednesday~

BOGO 1/2 OFF SALE

Wordless Wednesday~

20% Off Everything Sale~

Wordless Wednesday ~ Isn't This Heaven?

New Blog Design...Angels

New Listing ~ Hearts Desires Pin

~Wordless Wednesday~

Diet Monday! Oops, Life Style Change Monday!

20% Off Sale This Weekend Friday Through Sunday

20% Off Sale This Weekend Friday Through Sunday

~New Listing - Violet~

~WEEKEND DEALS ~ July 31 - Aug. 2nd ~

~Wordless Wednesday~

New Earrings! Meet Space!

~Weekend Sale BOGO 1/2 off~

~Wordless Wednesday~

Mother and Child New Earrings

Future Ballerinas~

~SUPER SALE JULY 17th - 19th~

~Inspirational Thursday~

~Wordless Wednesday~

I Want It To Snow!

~Artisan Beaders Street Team~

My New Creation...Mystic~

Scenic Sedona~

Happy Fourth of July ~ Our Independence

I've been featured!

~Wordless Wednesday~

CINDY'S ART AND SOUL CELEBRATION OF SUMMER CHALLENGE!

Sunday...Let there be peace!

Premio Meme Award~

Needs a good home!

Inspirational Thursday ~

~Wordless Wednesday~ My Etsy Finds

"My New Girlfriend! "

Inspirational Monday - Faithfulness!

Happy Father's Day!

New Listing! Meet Tears!

Lovely Blog Award~

Should Have Done It Myself!

Peace~

Feathers In The Wind

YART SALE on Etsy!

Inspirational Tuesday ~ Courage

Birthdays! Out of the Mouths of Babes!

Puppy Love~Kitty Love

Whispers on Etsy!

Sedona...an Experience!

Summer Is Here!

Bliss - New Listing

.•:¨♥¨:•. HOLIDAY SALES .•:¨♥¨:•.