tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87733132186937861102024-02-28T03:40:38.313-08:00N's WhimsNatashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.comBlogger79125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-12041565739173092972014-12-03T11:09:00.000-08:002014-12-03T19:06:08.961-08:00You've come a long way, Baby!<span style="background-color: white; color: #990000; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have been wanting to write an update for a while, but I just haven't had the inspiration. Most of the time, I blog for one of two reasons. I either have something I want to share with you (N's Whims news) or I have something on my heart. The problem is, there is only a little happening with N's Whims (I create sporadically, when I have energy), and only little changes in my health. On the one hand, there are great changes that I am very thankful for, but day by day, the changes seem so small and I get impatient that I am not all the way there yet. I guess I was waiting for the day that I could shout from the mountain tops that N is back. In the meantime, time passes and I am not updating anyone. It starts to feel like I am not grateful for the changes that have occurred. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #990000; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Have you ever been in a place in your life where you found yourself in limbo, looking forward to an event in the future, imagining how much better everything would be when you just got to _______? I have caught myself thinking this way near many milestones in life (graduating college, getting married, Mike finishing residency, having a baby). Every time, I had to consciously make a decision to stop living for the future and enjoy the now. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #990000; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well, that is where I have been for awhile now. Leading up to my surgery to remove PITA (the pituitary tumor in my brain), I was running out of options to help myself feel better. Every day, my symptoms worsened and I struggled, realizing that I just had to let time pass until it could be removed. The problem with that was that I didn't want to just waste my days--we all know we are given a limited amount of time here, as are our loved ones. I didn't want to waste away the only summer I would have with my family when my girls were 9, 8 and 8! So, we enjoyed the moments we could and made the best of it. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day of surgery, 6 weeks out, 12 weeks out--See, I have come a long way!</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #990000; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since the surgery, I can look back and see how far I have come. Less than a week out of surgery (4 days spent in the neuro ICU), I felt better than I had in a year. Three months out, I have lost 1/3 of the weight, have more energy, have been able to take on more family responsibilities (lessening some of the Mike's stress), and rarely yell anymore. I no longer have symptoms of PCOS, and have been off all meds for that since the surgery. I have also been released from Lyme treatment (we think we got it all)! This is all HUGE! Most days, I am so thankful to be here, because it is doable. Most days, I feel that if this is the best I get, I will be thankful for the rest of my life. Most days, I feel incredibly lucky. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #990000; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And then, there are the days when I long to be 100% me again. I long to have that seemingly endless energy. I long to be connected with the community, teaching fitness classes, encouraging others, volunteering, pouring into others and making others feel beautiful. I long to be my best self. And yet, I am not sure what my best self is anymore. Turns out, the tumor had an impact on many parts of me for longer than we realized. It was slow growing, and the impact increased with time, but it was affecting me internally and externally way before I was aware of it. My PCOS and infertility was caused by the tumor, beginning in high school. My endless energy was probably also a by-product. My inability to focus may have been as well. The thing is, it isn't yet clear what was really me and what was PITA. It is very odd to be 40 years old and wonder who I really am. These thoughts and more have bounced around in my head the last 3 months as I notice more and more things that are different. Even my Myers-Briggs personality score has changed (which is usually very constant throughout life). </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #990000; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the end of the day, there are things that haven't changed. These things are the very core of me, and have been since childhood. I still care deeply about others. I have lost some friendships through this journey--sickness is so hard, and some friendships just don't survive. Even though I understand this and have to let them go, I still care and hope for their happiness. I also want to use the energy I do have to make a positive difference in the lives of others--and to raise my girls with this same desire. Doing things for others brings me so much joy. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirX-pcmc8UuwNbQ4GumOvNGgK13EWp2514Of-JbY9MJJ_DOytmFeKARaI0JozpjLoj_J1nojrAGgQS7F2FcWSsqQ8la1AkKjo2NxjbMLv91huSGEvrwapYgDlKjx_4tKiQC5W4-jJlj4g/s1600/DSC_0160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirX-pcmc8UuwNbQ4GumOvNGgK13EWp2514Of-JbY9MJJ_DOytmFeKARaI0JozpjLoj_J1nojrAGgQS7F2FcWSsqQ8la1AkKjo2NxjbMLv91huSGEvrwapYgDlKjx_4tKiQC5W4-jJlj4g/s1600/DSC_0160.jpg" height="200" width="131" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, to sum it up, the tumor appears to be gone and my body continues to heal and change. My pituitary gland is not yet functioning as it should, but is starting to show signs of waking up. I don't yet have the energy to work out or create with consistency, but am finding pockets of energy to do those things on occasion. When I do, I have been encouraged. I love everything I have made recently, and am doing very little repetitive creating, mostly new designs. The strength and stamina I still have when working out is encouraging. I have started working on occasion at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheRegalFind" target="_blank">The Regal Find</a>, which is a lovely little store full of unique hand-made gifts in Middleton. This gives me an opportunity to feel connected to others, and to forget that I am not yet well. And, I am having a Trunk Show for N's Whims at The Regal Find next Wednesday, the 10th from 7-9pm. I will have all of my new creations there and can't wait to help them find new homes! As I type, I am reminded that I have come a long way baby--and yet I still need to relax and give myself the time I need to heal. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #990000; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you all for your patience, encouragement and support on this journey. I have been overwhelmed on many occasions by the goodness and love you have shown!</span>Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-40080566603487637262014-07-03T06:28:00.001-07:002014-07-03T09:28:04.239-07:00Don't cry for me, 'tis just a tumor....<span style="background-color: white; color: #45818e; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>I have gone over and over how to start this blog post, and nothing seems to flow. It isn't something I even want to talk about--yet, I am not good at ignoring the elephant in the corner. Never have been. As hard as this is to type about, the few conversations I have attempted haven't been smooth, either. Humor helps me, but not everyone else, it seems. So, I figure, you can choose to read or not--and then we can talk about it later or not--the elephant is out and life can go on. Here goes nothing.</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #45818e; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>If you read my last post, you know I am currently being treated for chronic lyme (which, by the way, is going well). During the process of getting diagnosed, my physician ran a bunch of tests. One of the tests that came back atypical was my cortisol level. Long story short, after many more tests (of both my patience and my body), we have found a pituitary tumor. Before anyone freaks out (brain tumor tends to do that in the best of us), as far as tumors go, this is not a bad one to have. He is just a little guy--about the size of the beads I use most, 4x6mm (the irony is not lost on me). He is assumed to be benign, but is most likely secreting hormones and wreaking havoc on my body. So, as cute and little as he is, he must come out.</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #45818e; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>While there are plenty of bad things about this--fatigue, weight gain, memory loss, surgery, inability to live my life to the fullest right now, etc., there are also many really good things.</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #45818e; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>One, it is removable. It is not pushing on anything or growing into anything, as far as we can tell. AND, they can go in through my nose, rather than through my skull--so the recovery is not as long (nor does it seem as scary).</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #45818e; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Two, the new theory is that I may have never had PCOS (my previous health issues that weren't solvable, only managed). Rather that I have always had this tumor and it is just slow growing. So, that means that if we remove this tumor, I may not need to be on meds for the rest of my life for PCOS.</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #45818e; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Three, there is a plausible and reversible explanation for my memory woes--other than just growing older. This has been really frustrating for me--I used to have an excellent memory (I was once falsely accused of cheating on a test because I remembered the sequence of answers from the identical pre-test given and scored in class the day before). Just this last week, I failed to remember an entire story from one of my closest friends until she came to the end and it triggered the memory. I had heard the story only two weeks prior. As a former therapist, stories are fascinating to me--this was troubling. It is not the first time in recent years that I know of--who knows how many other things I have forgotten. On this note--I can't remember who I was training in my basement when I found the tick that caused the Lyme disease. If it was you, please let me know. That would help me pin down the timing of onset. Thanks! On a similar note, if I owe you money, you might have to remind me. If I don't owe you money, you could still remind me and I might not know any better, LOL! So, there is hope that I could get some of my memory back. </b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #45818e; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Four, if you have to get two diseases that both affect your energy levels, cause a lot of pain, affect memory and focus and keep you from exercising, you might as well get them both at the same time! If you are going to take me out--just get it all done at once. It should take 3-6 months to wean me off of the high cortisol levels following surgery (which should be this summer). I will need to take a tapering dose of a steroid pill for several months. My lyme treatment could very likely be wrapping up at about the same time. Therefore, come Christmas, you could all be getting your N back :).</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #45818e; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Five, there is an explanation for everything--it isn't all in my head--lazy, hazy and crazy--well, it is in my head (technically), but not in the way I was beginning to worry! I have gained 30 lbs at this point. Which, when you go from a very fit and muscular 5'3" to 30 lbs heavier with less muscle, it is a big difference. Not easy to take for a fitness instructor--or anyone else for that matter! I am learning humility, patience and to love myself no matter what.</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #45818e; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Truly, in the end, that is the best outcome of all. I have slowed down my life, removed unnecessary clutter and distractions, lived in the present and learned to love myself without all the achievements. The deconstructed N is still the same--big heart, living my life with intention, to the fullest I can muster. Aren't we all, really?!</b></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sharing a little tumor humor--feeling loved!</td></tr>
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</b></span>Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-34159990256420446302013-08-20T08:52:00.000-07:002013-08-20T08:52:11.218-07:00Curly hair--who knew?!<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have been waiting to update you all on my health because I am ever hopeful that next week will be the one that I can say, "I've got this!" All good, clean bill of health, on top of things again, full of energy, a creating madwoman, WOOOHOOO! But then, are we ever really there?! My husband, the astute man that he is, once said that in order to truly excel at one thing in life, you have to let the others go a bit. Instead, he has decided to aim for pretty good in all areas. Not a bad goal, if you ask me ;). And, frankly, in doing so, he actually is amazing and not too stressed out. Yes, I will admit, I can still learn a lot from him--beyond appreciating sushi, scotch and chocolate! </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I also realized that in not updating at all, it has left many of you wondering how I am doing, possibly worrying that things haven't improved. The reality is that things have improved--immensely, even! My energy levels are at about 80% of normal (which, if you know me in real life, is probably about normal ;). I feel better than I ever have on a day to day basis without gluten and milk or cream in my diet. I am much less crabby, which is great for those of you who do know me in real life. And, the bleeding from the fibroid has diminished greatly. Every time I get a week that is free of bleeding, I am ready to declare this battle over--only to wake up one day to more. So, it isn't over, but this is so much more doable than before. Acupuncture, chinese herbs and a diet change have been the keys to this improvement. I have actually been able to lower my medication levels to half of what I had previously been taking to control the PCOS. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As I am typing this, I am realizing that once again, it is the hardship that has pushed me out of my comfort zone, allowing me to find a better alternative. I was previously on the highest levels of medication to control my PCOS. It was allowing me to live symptom free, but it left no "big guns" to pull out when I relapsed. I was able to maintain my weight, but dropping weight was terribly difficult. This left me hovering about 5 pounds below my relapse weight (weight can be a trigger for PCOS symptoms). But, through acupunture and diet change, I am now sitting 15 pounds under my relapse weight and my body appears to be functioning along the normal calorie in, calorie out scenario! I currently don't have to work out like a crazy woman just to maintain! Woot! Another crazy development is that my hair is currently curly. All of my life, my hair has been straight. Curl-resistant straight. In humidity, straight. In dry air, straight. Straight, straight, straight--as in NO body! Well, all of my life except two other times, both lasting about 9 months. You guessed it, during both of my pregnancies. In case you are wondering, I am not pregnant. Yes, I am sure! However, this is another sign that my hormone levels are changing and in a good way. For those of us with PCOS, we have low female hormone levels and high male hormone levels. The only time my hormone levels are in the normal range for women is when I am pregnant--or, now maybe! </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">So, long story short, I need to count my blessings. With acupuncture and a few diet adjustments, I am feeling really good. I am not sure yet what to do with this crazy mop of hair, but I will happily deal with that over chronic fatigue, irritability, sweating like a man and any other number of symptoms! I will beat this fibroid eventually--because I am ridiculously stubborn. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">What does all this have to do with N's Whims, you ask?! Well, seeing as how N is the heart of the whims, you should know that I am itching to get back in the studio. Hopefully, in the next few weeks, I will get my current creative project completed and then my girls will be back in school. I have truly enjoyed this summer, playing with them and pouring a bit more of N into our home. Would you like to see some of the projects I have completed? You would? YAY! </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiacia-EyNB8ey8xejujqNbnxnziH0B_ADncW7TCmI6Cad3gBIXwcPdm2Pv8YcaqzhDWQux4QoT_f3qfipJlzxE6WM9PDR8HdNwZpHNT0vPtcKlWVy8mcza3VbX68lFIn1-Fhl0Q1hByg/s1600/lamp+project.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiacia-EyNB8ey8xejujqNbnxnziH0B_ADncW7TCmI6Cad3gBIXwcPdm2Pv8YcaqzhDWQux4QoT_f3qfipJlzxE6WM9PDR8HdNwZpHNT0vPtcKlWVy8mcza3VbX68lFIn1-Fhl0Q1hByg/s320/lamp+project.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This is my St. Vinnie's lamp project. When I purchased it, the lamp was a lovely 70's mustard yellow. While I do enjoy mustard yellow, it did not work in my living room at all. So, I thought I would spray paint it turquoise. Turns out, the turquoise was too blue, and the lampshade I fell in love with at Target was just a touch too small. So, this summer, I finally got around to round 2 on the lamp. I spray painted it again with a cream color. Then, I got out the shoe polish (which we rarely use anymore on shoes) and darkened up the details. I found this shade at World Market, which was surprisingly economical! However, the shade was not made for this type of lamp connection. So, I found some wire in my studio and rigged it so that it would stay level on the base. What do you think?!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">My next project was to paint this beautiful sideboard that I found on craigslist. It had actually been painted and was a beautiful shade already. But, the color was off for the living room--it had too much red in the paint and turned a bit purple next to my shade of sea green. So, there is sat, taunting me for months. Mike helped me tackle it a few weeks ago and now it is lovely! It houses all of the stereo equipment AND hides the gaping hole with wires that was never finished in the middle of our living room wall (seriously, who does that?! the wall has a hole, 12 inches up, smack in the middle of the room). I now walk into my living room and exhale. It is lovely--it is as therapeutic as yoga when a room comes together, don't you think?!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">My current and last project for now is in our covered porch. There were some beams that our porch builder, Matt Parnell, suggested I do something whimsical on. While it has turned into a bigger project than I thought, it has been fun and exciting to see it come together. My mother-in-law donated her scraps from stained glass projects (boy am I glad she didn't just throw them away), and I started making glass murals on the beams. My mom came up yesterday and helped me for a bit. I am hoping some of the other creative people in my life will do a section, too. Won't it be fun to look at and see the work of others that I love while relaxing on the porch?! </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Once again, thank you for reading, your support during this summer of flux, and every single sweet and encouraging word! </span></span></span><br />
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<br />Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-43456237953905076312013-07-13T10:04:00.001-07:002013-07-13T16:00:34.875-07:00N's Whims--who knew the name would be so fitting?! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvc7gVJtjnvUehcHdBnS9nB1WSINS7scQYlRpbB9o8N4Ya6HiFaZxIw33U9_am_OlyMkBcv_fTIAgm0nhF3Ff-XEEakqrh4chBcQzQ89VTAjfSzLyB5UeQcDpKsVScge6a1FGtqV9YyXI/s1600/bstorm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvc7gVJtjnvUehcHdBnS9nB1WSINS7scQYlRpbB9o8N4Ya6HiFaZxIw33U9_am_OlyMkBcv_fTIAgm0nhF3Ff-XEEakqrh4chBcQzQ89VTAjfSzLyB5UeQcDpKsVScge6a1FGtqV9YyXI/s320/bstorm.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">As most of you know, several months ago I announced that I would be taking a hiatus from N's Whims. I wasn't sure at the time if N's Whims would continue to exist--and, if so, what it would even look like. This hobby turned business had taken over more and more of my time and attention. And, as it did, I spent less time being creative and fulfilled and more time just getting product out. My life, my loved ones and myself were getting neglected and I was exhausted keeping up. While it is a good problem to have, a business that is successful and continues to grow, it was not what I wanted for my life. I knew that in order to figure it all out, I needed to take a step back. I needed to sit with and grieve for the loss of N's Whims, if that was to be. You see, N's Whims had become such a part of me--my self-esteem, my social outlet, my justification for investing in learning were all tied to N's Whims. I needed to find me again and then see if I could work N's Whims back in on some level. It was really a tough time for me--N's Whims was my fourth baby! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">However, as tough things usually are, this was so good for me, so freeing. </span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Then, this summer my health decided to shake things up a bit more. I have a chronic, annoying disease called PCOS. I am so lucky that it is not terminal, nor debilitating. I am also very fortunate that more often than not, I have been able to keep it controlled and relatively symptom free. However, this summer it has been unexpectedly wreaking havoc on my body and my lifestyle. I have had to greatly lower my expectations for myself, slowing way down in life. For those of you who know me well, you know it is hard for me to live life casually. I am usually attacking life with a crazy level of energy and intensity. I have had to greatly reduce the amount, duration and intensity of physical activity (I recently had to ask a friend if we could slow down on a bike ride and had to discontinue training for a triathlon--gasp). My house is more often than not embarrassing these days, and energy and creativity for jewelry making has been lacking! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">I have noticed that as I slow down, there is more room for thinking and processing. A few weeks ago, it hit me that I am thankful that I took a hiatus with N's Whims and processed my feelings before my health issues began. If I hadn't, I would probably have resented the lack of energy for creating. Instead, I don't feel pressure to make anything. I am able to let go of the need to be creative and know that when it is there I will enjoy it again. I have also realized how thankful I am that my body has told me to just slow down, reduce the unnecessary pressures of life and enjoy my kids this summer! Instead of spending so much time cleaning and working on projects, I have used the energy I do have to do fun things with the girls. Then, when the energy isn't there anymore, we snuggle up and read together. We are working our way through the Harry Potter books right now. I am learning that I don't have to be the high energy, fun and entertaining mom to enjoy my girls and have them enjoy me. Surprisingly, with this lemon I have been given, I have found several
positives (which is great, because without this I might find my attitude
turning sour).</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Anyway, I think I have finally figured out what N's Whims looks like to me--exactly that, my whims. I can't tell you precisely, because it will be ever changing. I will not be doing custom orders anymore. If you need something custom with wording, check etsy--there are loads of artists who do that sort of thing. If you live nearby and want something custom done with vintage pieces, Stacey Barmore has such a cool style and makes beautiful pieces. You can find her at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/oldsoul/" target="_blank">Old Soul</a>. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">As for what N's Whims will look like, I have way too many beautiful beads, metal pieces and </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7af1mtbBBMnRwqfi6m6pdSX-jRww3PMftVxClvJDRrvxrBCcXgC9_RAQCXdq7ivM6T0JOv2Q3AG0EXG2itBXIkH17ojhcqclOfqNyM53tnayep4VY8A18o2cri7Dhema-IiCPe0oWNYQ/s1600/beads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7af1mtbBBMnRwqfi6m6pdSX-jRww3PMftVxClvJDRrvxrBCcXgC9_RAQCXdq7ivM6T0JOv2Q3AG0EXG2itBXIkH17ojhcqclOfqNyM53tnayep4VY8A18o2cri7Dhema-IiCPe0oWNYQ/s320/beads.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">discarded vintage bits begging to be made into something beautiful to stop creating! I will make pieces as time and creativity allow. I will probably post some as I make them, but I may not always get to that. Of course, anything created is available for purchase at any time. I may have open boutique hours sporadically and post them on the page to let you know. I will probably have a few open houses a year with other hand-made local vendors. As always, if you have a jewelry need and would like to shop, let me know. I would be happy to find a time for you to shop and would love to get to see you! I really enjoyed the jewelry class I taught in my home recently, so I would love to do that as it fits as well. That being said, if you really want that hand-made family necklace, you could come and learn to make it with your own hands (how cool is that?!). If you have a fun group of friends or family who would love to learn together, let me know and we can set up a time for that. I may also auction a custom family necklace every once in awhile for DAIS--who knows! Basically, when it works, I will, and if not, well then I won't. How's that for N's Whims?! Not the best plan for running a business, I suppose. But, who knows, it just might work--and if not, I am sure I will find another whim. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkex8GZpWAMwsheXSOcmNLKykCBTYUZXCmACZA25jINbjWozOCqeCmELCk2gnJRI9XUgWgO_7NSSaVP8IZr1djffrBXWQZHtbhOOwOg7Emq5QDY_CDbOwYcI3Ewz3ki8i5zLZCyfghPJg/s1600/bsunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkex8GZpWAMwsheXSOcmNLKykCBTYUZXCmACZA25jINbjWozOCqeCmELCk2gnJRI9XUgWgO_7NSSaVP8IZr1djffrBXWQZHtbhOOwOg7Emq5QDY_CDbOwYcI3Ewz3ki8i5zLZCyfghPJg/s400/bsunset.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Hopefully with this new model, you will find the new creations to be more inspired. It is my hope that my whims will continue to make the women who choose them feel beautiful and unique--because every woman is. </span></span>Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-83351527852249297712013-05-01T04:03:00.003-07:002013-05-01T08:53:28.089-07:00Almost there--more new artists at the Open House!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis7UI6nX1dqQ6bPxdA7RLTIyl7oEQSXqEuh1jFANvUEhx4Yrg1XUPL1_2QV9NQU8-ZICoWp4aESQyZA5Z9YdAnJ4gwtODCUrgE1VG74piifmy4pmN3WlUBPjqNAmSEc0810RwzZ5MbeiI/s1600/DSC_0188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis7UI6nX1dqQ6bPxdA7RLTIyl7oEQSXqEuh1jFANvUEhx4Yrg1XUPL1_2QV9NQU8-ZICoWp4aESQyZA5Z9YdAnJ4gwtODCUrgE1VG74piifmy4pmN3WlUBPjqNAmSEc0810RwzZ5MbeiI/s320/DSC_0188.JPG" width="305" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of Connie's infinity scarves sitting in Wayne's bowl</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Today I get to tell you about the final set of artists who will be selling at the Open House. One of my friends in the neighborhood told me about a local Waunakee gal who knits gorgeous things. Well, I contacted her and she has agreed to sell at the open house! Her name is Connie Burmeister. She really enjoys knitting with silks (wait until you get to feel her scarves), but uses other types of yarn as well. </b></span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-gOaqmHQHHj8zd96gVnsHUjOlS4f7PgJPir5t3ye_9zquMFSaJ6x0PzyDqMrsfkjMy-j48aLBmlS3vQC9wJ2cZ65fvtlAG6rpHL2iPJGxaTP-XS7M8wMzYJwbRMpZDVtdRBmzh5aD8u8/s1600/DSC_0186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-gOaqmHQHHj8zd96gVnsHUjOlS4f7PgJPir5t3ye_9zquMFSaJ6x0PzyDqMrsfkjMy-j48aLBmlS3vQC9wJ2cZ65fvtlAG6rpHL2iPJGxaTP-XS7M8wMzYJwbRMpZDVtdRBmzh5aD8u8/s320/DSC_0186.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LOVE these scoops--everything about them--the weight, feel and color!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>After confirming with her that she could be here, she mentioned that her husband is a woodworker. I stopped by their house one day after teaching spin (yes, they put up with my stinky self :) to see his work. Wow, was I amazed. It was clear that Wayne really loves what he does. The scoop<span style="font-size: large;"> handles pictured <span style="font-size: large;">abo<span style="font-size: large;">ve were designed by Wayne and they have such a nice feel as you hold them<span style="font-size: large;">. </span></span></span></span></b></span></span><b>His pieces are definitely works of art--he lets the unique natural patterns in the wood sing in his finished pieces. </b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMsI8fA1FcgXJJvEF1CRbB2fDQ4dmRpO03PYwCcOnIsJLpjDzNxxX0mQ4pFFXsOnspk0iRPqi8DBOOjTkYwxWTIxoUYAUiizxRUB5owIzUuNIjAw3AwywwTh4T5BUAa9wWhzeEO0pTss/s1600/DSC_0185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMsI8fA1FcgXJJvEF1CRbB2fDQ4dmRpO03PYwCcOnIsJLpjDzNxxX0mQ4pFFXsOnspk0iRPqi8DBOOjTkYwxWTIxoUYAUiizxRUB5owIzUuNIjAw3AwywwTh4T5BUAa9wWhzeEO0pTss/s320/DSC_0185.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>This piece <span style="font-size: large;">is for serving olives and is such an innovative </span>desi<span style="font-size: large;">gn.</span> You put the olives <span style="font-size: large;">i<span style="font-size: large;">n the base of the piece and <span style="font-size: large;">close t<span style="font-size: large;">he lid of the <span style="font-size: large;">upper bo<span style="font-size: large;">wl</span></span> (which is open for the picture). As you<span style="font-size: large;"> eat the olives, you drop the pit into the upper bowl. No piles of <span style="font-size: large;">unsi<span style="font-size: large;">ghtly pits laying around :). Super <span style="font-size: large;">idea<span style="font-size: large;">, if you ask me. The bottom is expertly shaped<span style="font-size: large;"> out of one piece of wood. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">See you Sunday 2-5pm at 1418 Bl<span style="font-size: large;">ue Ridge Trai<span style="font-size: large;">l.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">J</span><span style="font-size: large;">ust a few more days to wa<span style="font-size: large;">it!</span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span></span><b> </b></div>
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<br />Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-50224087099528807812013-04-29T11:05:00.002-07:002013-04-29T11:05:50.304-07:00Badaxe Design is in the house!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlt3Zh1OLkNhzZESOIAcMuzWApXK3o169AQEnNTGPvJSJS8iBnNeCyZ1Davj6uvwEgk-CCPo97JuOITcgsz1OA_IDMr4flErNA1wGH3HStxN4lyLJQWUoQM8-vcKO3-giG0NS5hg5oJeI/s1600/badaxe6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlt3Zh1OLkNhzZESOIAcMuzWApXK3o169AQEnNTGPvJSJS8iBnNeCyZ1Davj6uvwEgk-CCPo97JuOITcgsz1OA_IDMr4flErNA1wGH3HStxN4lyLJQWUoQM8-vcKO3-giG0NS5hg5oJeI/s640/badaxe6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #45818e;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I am so excited to let you know that Badaxedesign will be at the N's Whims Open House this Sunday from 2-5pm. For the first time ever, we will have things that are geared toward the men in your life who love to fish (although, I must say that Jonathan's wife looks adorable in his t-shirts)! Jonathan Marquardt lives right here in Waunakee and he has effectively combined his passion for art with that for fly-fishing and the results are so cool. </span></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixWBsClpIXfsqgGS8fez1WBbTTQb54W_T6Pd52PWao_REN7tzuKflvRKh0urR5-a9ZvBwFZKiMCTORmljza9ARFxfymLOFvmzcANQjEI7QjCZuKrja1AA3FmDUckZ7Jt4ekJH4mJrdK20/s1600/badaxe1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixWBsClpIXfsqgGS8fez1WBbTTQb54W_T6Pd52PWao_REN7tzuKflvRKh0urR5-a9ZvBwFZKiMCTORmljza9ARFxfymLOFvmzcANQjEI7QjCZuKrja1AA3FmDUckZ7Jt4ekJH4mJrdK20/s320/badaxe1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">One of Badaxedesign's most recent prints.</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG_-QPIH_IvuQ8gaGtLxlZ-leAeHr4ZkbFLkRxtXw8tZ8vMJskvuHNYgGhITg4ZXdOPO7GLKnGZ-PEkSWYkdVcv5Mnw1vCFnBf_oORh0NGSK8bSw6_acSjydnO-4qHYR-Dm6tde5ceIy4/s1600/badaxe3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSHoHTLDdHNCQV_u-aYTsE6Oo4w_wejIRZq4TrU3suFbF5KZFL7B1jfx4vvOa4FctQrMmDpkkF_r1nhtMVUW90LxjVU2SrzFdPUzeOjRad3UEt3nYfziHNHOpg1-KYPKqm-lVqmnQHKfw/s1600/badaxe5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSHoHTLDdHNCQV_u-aYTsE6Oo4w_wejIRZq4TrU3suFbF5KZFL7B1jfx4vvOa4FctQrMmDpkkF_r1nhtMVUW90LxjVU2SrzFdPUzeOjRad3UEt3nYfziHNHOpg1-KYPKqm-lVqmnQHKfw/s320/badaxe5.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG_-QPIH_IvuQ8gaGtLxlZ-leAeHr4ZkbFLkRxtXw8tZ8vMJskvuHNYgGhITg4ZXdOPO7GLKnGZ-PEkSWYkdVcv5Mnw1vCFnBf_oORh0NGSK8bSw6_acSjydnO-4qHYR-Dm6tde5ceIy4/s1600/badaxe3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG_-QPIH_IvuQ8gaGtLxlZ-leAeHr4ZkbFLkRxtXw8tZ8vMJskvuHNYgGhITg4ZXdOPO7GLKnGZ-PEkSWYkdVcv5Mnw1vCFnBf_oORh0NGSK8bSw6_acSjydnO-4qHYR-Dm6tde5ceIy4/s320/badaxe3.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #45818e;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Johnathan uses a linocut block printing to create his designs. "Linocut block printing is akin to Japanese woodcuts and intaglio.
I use two gouges to carve the surface of my linoleum covered blocks
upon which I sketch reverse images for my final pieces. </span></span></span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #45818e;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Once I have finished carving, I roll the surface with acrylic or oil
based ink and press artist's paper down onto the block using a hand held
press (someday I'll have a rolling press.) When the paper is pulled
away, the final image is visible. Each one is created through a <span style="font-size: large;">h</span>and-made process. There are many blade sizes but I use primarily two
for creating designs. The depth and width of each cut dictates the
final appearance of my image. A skipping blade can ruin many days of
careful work." You can see pictures of the process on <a href="https://jonathan-marquardt.squarespace.com/linocut-process/" target="_blank">Badaxedesign's website</a>.</span></span></span></span></h2>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUM4yxHEHrMHc4bZzxy1uDUoq2WEwNd3vsD4TLVWdo51MhpFImb1l5jWCRLydYVp9ezr5ixx7RMJEy-aHv5OtRwFFgnChpn9c9ruKdSVM_W65JAI8ykPRPFyCwfwKbpEJHE3eF3bZ0Y34/s1600/badaxe2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUM4yxHEHrMHc4bZzxy1uDUoq2WEwNd3vsD4TLVWdo51MhpFImb1l5jWCRLydYVp9ezr5ixx7RMJEy-aHv5OtRwFFgnChpn9c9ruKdSVM_W65JAI8ykPRPFyCwfwKbpEJHE3eF3bZ0Y34/s200/badaxe2.jpg" width="150" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="color: #45818e;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Badaxedesign has been featured in several fishing magazines, including <u>The </u><u>flyfish Journal</u>. Let Badaxedesign be your one-stop shopping for the fishermen in your life who don't need any more gear! </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbbYECNrSUCjD0UCu_h5gWcSQEzaw4dFzXqeWS542Riubn3JeydtpWv5QlJugVJG9AVuxbky4SFlJsZ6Uelj4olBvH-bURkVwzzOY0hX1IkXCZKbrIxacgl1C2PPxIwP8ctGjAQluKrJE/s1600/417418_386000041465403_652243934_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbbYECNrSUCjD0UCu_h5gWcSQEzaw4dFzXqeWS542Riubn3JeydtpWv5QlJugVJG9AVuxbky4SFlJsZ6Uelj4olBvH-bURkVwzzOY0hX1IkXCZKbrIxacgl1C2PPxIwP8ctGjAQluKrJE/s200/417418_386000041465403_652243934_n.jpg" width="150" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #45818e;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Mike has a hat, a shirt (excellent quality, by the way) and several framed prints from Badaxedesign, and loves every one of them! To be honest, when it comes to fly-fishing, I have no idea what to buy him--but I can pick out a t-shirt ;). You should definitely head to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Badaxedesign/241277135937695" target="_blank">Badaxedesign's facebook page</a>, to see more. </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDPyatb75kkpR7Ln84UmHDXVITqWomF8HttR7J8iHM8GgDiwqGCeT-uxhuLk0NDSpXi3x1gxwu83C0FusyGNz5HOHEQZLjzB4N42L15ndUcmBVFeXlY69ZenQYeXq4srKFo9QS4OoL6os/s1600/555030_481304391934967_1046258430_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDPyatb75kkpR7Ln84UmHDXVITqWomF8HttR7J8iHM8GgDiwqGCeT-uxhuLk0NDSpXi3x1gxwu83C0FusyGNz5HOHEQZLjzB4N42L15ndUcmBVFeXlY69ZenQYeXq4srKFo9QS4OoL6os/s200/555030_481304391934967_1046258430_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #45818e;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">At the open house, you will be able to purchase t-shirts, hats and prints of varying sizes at Badaxedesign's table. Jonathan also has a fun series of prints that feature different states and the fish associated with that state. <span style="font-size: large;">I am thi<span style="font-size: large;">nking that Mike might need an Ill<span style="font-size: large;">inois<span style="font-size: large;"> one for Father's day<span style="font-size: large;">, since that is the s<span style="font-size: large;">tate we lived in <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">when we met :). Shhh! Don't tell him<span style="font-size: large;">!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDPyatb75kkpR7Ln84UmHDXVITqWomF8HttR7J8iHM8GgDiwqGCeT-uxhuLk0NDSpXi3x1gxwu83C0FusyGNz5HOHEQZLjzB4N42L15ndUcmBVFeXlY69ZenQYeXq4srKFo9QS4OoL6os/s1600/555030_481304391934967_1046258430_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0UQ7SOHxNpen5C9_-0BHlGVqn-9q8QqdkAEWOD7bbb9tX0QJmXPX2K78XZi1s9UaaCe3LSmqj1bLFdgAz-D61FjBGXmA5uf70_KpAhmuuL16iK-i9h9WxRyEjK3uI_PPmZ4Rb4A6K4GE/s1600/badaxe7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0UQ7SOHxNpen5C9_-0BHlGVqn-9q8QqdkAEWOD7bbb9tX0QJmXPX2K78XZi1s9UaaCe3LSmqj1bLFdgAz-D61FjBGXmA5uf70_KpAhmuuL16iK-i9h9WxRyEjK3uI_PPmZ4Rb4A6K4GE/s200/badaxe7.jpg" width="161" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #45818e;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">This blog in a n<span style="font-size: large;">u<span style="font-size: large;">tshell--Op<span style="font-size: large;">en House, 1418 Blue Ridge Trail on Sunday, May 5th from 2-5pm. <span style="font-size: large;">You don't want to miss <span style="font-size: large;">an<span style="font-size: large;"> opportunity to shop Badaxedesign <span style="font-size: large;">and many other local <span style="font-size: large;">artists. Be there!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></b></span><br />
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Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-2654412524701693282013-04-28T09:00:00.003-07:002013-04-28T09:00:52.199-07:00N's Whims Open House is just one week away!<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Yep, next Sunday, May 5th from 2-5pm, you will find a unique shopapalooza at 1418 Blue Ridge Trail in Waunakee! Not only will you get 10% of anything N's Whims, you will also find some N² items (made by Nicole Mihalas and I), some Craft to Give Back items (all proceeds go to DAIS of Madison), hair accessories and other items by the MihaLutes ladies, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/CarolinesVintage?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">Caroline's Vintage</a><span style="font-size: small;">, </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/amothersartphotography" target="_blank">A Mother's Art Photography</a></span></span></span></span> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cdel-Design/146501895394635?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">Cdel</a>, you will also get to shop Dede's latest designs.</span></span></span><span style="color: #c27ba0; font-size: medium;"></span><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #45818e;"></span></span></span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWGgHguccPEi21DilSmP_w1JH8NXAI8VfXmB27UvPbyZ9eAvdFA_HLe-i0wqcdL7Qa0o4y1DVOdc_43jV1QDonhNhv2h5Zh-zwOyBDwAqsZ7rtxXtxRQUdU71nsXgZ7B0Nz3n_hFHJF0Q/s1600/DSC_2930.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWGgHguccPEi21DilSmP_w1JH8NXAI8VfXmB27UvPbyZ9eAvdFA_HLe-i0wqcdL7Qa0o4y1DVOdc_43jV1QDonhNhv2h5Zh-zwOyBDwAqsZ7rtxXtxRQUdU71nsXgZ7B0Nz3n_hFHJF0Q/s400/DSC_2930.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a piece Dede made us, I love how it reminds me of the beach--sand, baubles and blue-green ocean waters....</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"> </span></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4gLKeK8cE8g-CF7URXKiibG20qo9SEkpFEudeqQH4ev3bbnMMrgtMEQ6tE0yL3SJJyEHqWCbOsGQoR1g0G9rZHQR4kClXB0XApGH4g47d-EQ3ptytnx6850bejbpTdMP5D28cdQGN4_k/s1600/DSC_2928.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4gLKeK8cE8g-CF7URXKiibG20qo9SEkpFEudeqQH4ev3bbnMMrgtMEQ6tE0yL3SJJyEHqWCbOsGQoR1g0G9rZHQR4kClXB0XApGH4g47d-EQ3ptytnx6850bejbpTdMP5D28cdQGN4_k/s200/DSC_2928.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Dede
Kauffman will be at the open house this Sunday, 2-5pm. If you have ever
noticed (or heard me going on and on about) the stained glass in my
windows, you know Dede does beautiful work! If you haven't, here are two
of my favorite pieces that sit in my boutique windows.</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNxFmEbpdhaULH_oiKYesuwtUtuzgrYTfKynfijZ28gK_p0654U5n7_WHhcaX-Us3Rs-MoXskuMb4aXu7lNqCoF02dHVdjVEnyhjnLDBSOCF86bVkzKr3L-XOS8NLez-T1HlhNyWgDMts/s1600/001.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNxFmEbpdhaULH_oiKYesuwtUtuzgrYTfKynfijZ28gK_p0654U5n7_WHhcaX-Us3Rs-MoXskuMb4aXu7lNqCoF02dHVdjVEnyhjnLDBSOCF86bVkzKr3L-XOS8NLez-T1HlhNyWgDMts/s200/001.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span>Pure
happiness when I walk into my studio to begin working and see the
sunshine coming through my windows, lighting up the office and casting
shades of orange! These two are just perfect for me--down to the swirls
and the cracked glass jewels!</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPP6OjEGlVIcTFa2CU-J5ClgmooKbLVn_TS1rZQW7qWLdYM0DvCwtm8nRCwRVLvt4aJFQGxoe7qpOk7ZA5ykqJCOVyucV1JPMQ_IS5WqX9SYpt5eeTxoOZH9VQba6wy1_aNyDX3I2d_d4/s1600/DSC_2929.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPP6OjEGlVIcTFa2CU-J5ClgmooKbLVn_TS1rZQW7qWLdYM0DvCwtm8nRCwRVLvt4aJFQGxoe7qpOk7ZA5ykqJCOVyucV1JPMQ_IS5WqX9SYpt5eeTxoOZH9VQba6wy1_aNyDX3I2d_d4/s400/DSC_2929.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is one of my favorites in my living room--it reminds me of all the jewels and blessings in my family tree....</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlUwotniotYBbz8lVfatFZqlTefLSvXl8_t9b_MqJS6NBdZMLmwhn8zR-8GAmXYxyiknYgAL00OqlWfb4C6ym2dueyoIiRL0HRBTEGQFVt79t0z4IOymvSPcVKHwpVUEs5WklgerFfN0/s1600/001.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></a><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Dede
will have some abstract pieces similar to these, as well as some
smaller fun pieces. </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw6aaXgpF-LCp9r71wMJ_OLqhholx-odptLF84PdL8bKREYQHbd5SeYnrtn2nmwwr3TDTJMXOwLFQmJPdAljPHXGIp0axpmcBwuuqSgujh2txo7XaxjfLjOkGE1LVI_-7uYnmnPFClh94/s1600/DSC_2937.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw6aaXgpF-LCp9r71wMJ_OLqhholx-odptLF84PdL8bKREYQHbd5SeYnrtn2nmwwr3TDTJMXOwLFQmJPdAljPHXGIp0axpmcBwuuqSgujh2txo7XaxjfLjOkGE1LVI_-7uYnmnPFClh94/s320/DSC_2937.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Oh,
one more excellent gift idea--Dede makes crash glass collages--here is
one she made for me. Bring a favorite picture or two, and if you have a
favorite quote printed (scrapbooking items work great for this) and
she'll design one for you, too! </span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">I have a few more artists to tell you about in the next f<span style="font-size: medium;">ew days, inclu<span style="font-size: medium;">d<span style="font-size: medium;">in<span style="font-size: medium;">g some that are new <span style="font-size: medium;">to the <span style="font-size: medium;">N<span style="font-size: medium;">'s W<span style="font-size: medium;">hims open house</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>.<span style="font-size: medium;"> We will have fun gift ideas for <span style="font-size: medium;">mothers, fathers, teachers and graduates (or anyone else on your l<span style="font-size: medium;">ist in the next f<span style="font-size: medium;">ew months). We will <span style="font-size: medium;">also have many fun things <span style="font-size: medium;">to update your house and <span style="font-size: medium;">wardro<span style="font-size: medium;">be--sprin<span style="font-size: medium;">ging new life into yours! Make sure you save some time to come and shop next Sunday<span style="font-size: medium;">.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-85325599560475910072013-04-24T05:17:00.002-07:002013-04-24T05:17:58.811-07:00Cdel will be back for the open house!<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/376945_277255795652577_51485352_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" class="spotlight" height="200" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/376945_277255795652577_51485352_n.jpg" style="height: 520px; width: 347px;" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The one pictured here is called blue/green schmear--isn't it cute! </span></span></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #45818e;">You know the bands--those ones that don't move--EVAH! The ones that come in so many bright, beautiful colors and patterns. The ones you can wash multiple times and even (gasp) throw in the dryer! I swear I can't wear these puppies out--even my favorites that I wear ALL THE TIME! Yep, Lori from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cdel-Design/146501895394635?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">Cdel</a> will be back again and she will have a plethora of stickybands and wickybands with her. </span> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Can't wait to see you all soon--I have a several more artists to tell you about, including a f<span style="font-size: large;">ew new vendors I can't wait to tell you all about. Stay tuned and block off your calendars Sunday<span style="font-size: large;">, May 5th from 2-5PM!</span></span></span> </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
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Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-34998014442493038802013-04-17T19:22:00.002-07:002013-04-17T19:32:23.188-07:00Why it will be so hard to stop doing special orders....<span style="color: #990000;">Still not sure what N's Whims will look like in the future, but I know now that special orders will no longer be a service I can provide. I love doing them, but I need to get back to playing with my finds and treasures to find my passion again. Sadly, I just don't have enough time for it all! One of my last special orders was an amazing one to end on--and I just have to share it with you. Please forgive the length of this blog, because you know I am rarely brief! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioS_gJ6JVXYlEOVGEXR0khJYW3ljQt5P7d_B_SSJyDIKwGeFRiFhDA6NBrteP7S7CYwjHx-tvgCZKu8Ys_XfnGo5QHfptov2_ZX6F8SGdKuAiL6-w-6HHk6uSpTQI_KW87X_MlgfOYUJw/s1600/DSC_0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioS_gJ6JVXYlEOVGEXR0khJYW3ljQt5P7d_B_SSJyDIKwGeFRiFhDA6NBrteP7S7CYwjHx-tvgCZKu8Ys_XfnGo5QHfptov2_ZX6F8SGdKuAiL6-w-6HHk6uSpTQI_KW87X_MlgfOYUJw/s200/DSC_0034.JPG" width="132" /></a>About a month ago, one of my group exercise students, Karen, approached me about doing a project for her sister. Her sister will be turning 50 the day after tomorrow, exactly 2 days after her son, Zack, would have turned 16. She should have been worrying about his first time alone behind the wheel, but instead, she will be throwing another huge party to celebrate his life without him. When Zack was just 6 years old, he died tragically when a soccer goal tipped over on him. Every year since that day, his family (and by this I mean his HUGE extended family) has thrown a party for Zack, inviting underprivileged children and having a blast in his honor. Pretty cool, huh?! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">Anyway, she wanted to do something really special for her sister--and they have done many really meaningful things over the years, like making a book with his artwork, bracelets with beads he picked out, necklaces with z on them, quilts from his clothes--you name it, they have given it. This family is incredibly thoughtful and diligent about keeping Zack a part of the family. What neat ways they have come up with to make Zack known to his younger siblings and cousins who were born after his death! So, she brought me this book of Zack's artwork, some legos that used to be his and shared several stories of him and his family. Karen told me that she would like to incorporate a lego, an angel's wing and a key (to signify that he would have been getting his license this year). We decided to use his favorite colors--orange and red--on this piece.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39IIX3EQFbfSd6D_MXVCauhwSwtxwHR69W9vffLvCHvVcNcWG3lGkr65_Qs-bsPszwfwX4hLZ9ywAAL-0Txii4Tv0OC9wjRrTUHJ4Xi7a2B3hYCpnzOHMJTFp1J5mParIQjmKo5icVzY/s1600/DSC_0033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39IIX3EQFbfSd6D_MXVCauhwSwtxwHR69W9vffLvCHvVcNcWG3lGkr65_Qs-bsPszwfwX4hLZ9ywAAL-0Txii4Tv0OC9wjRrTUHJ4Xi7a2B3hYCpnzOHMJTFp1J5mParIQjmKo5icVzY/s200/DSC_0033.JPG" width="200" /></a></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">I can't even tell you how many times I read this book, full of the lessons Zack taught during his short time here. My girls often would sit down and read it, too. I can't tell you how many times I cried--for his family, for the loss of dreams, for all the hurt in this world. No one in our house says Zack, who? anymore. It is as if we got to know him--as much as is possible, anyway. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">I have to say that often I am stumped by special orders for awhile. Especially the ones that are outside the box. I think about them A LOT, and worry that I won't be able to do them justice! This one had me especially worried--I mean first of all, it was a gift--sometimes it is hard to get a sense of the recipient's style from the person ordering. Number two, his mom has dabbled in jewelry--eek! She might have higher expectations for the jewelry she wears. Thirdly, she has received so many meaningful gifts, how can I make this one more special for her 50th? Fourth of all, I have never used a lego in jewelry--how will I do that?! And, lastly, a key and angels wing and a chunky orange pendant all in one necklace--each one could be a focal on it's own. How can I do all of this and make it pretty and wearable? I prayed more than once for the inspiration to make it all work. I did not want to fail on this project--it had become too important to me!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVtsZe3Yub2Wfv7ifzP-LT5yf0GjfwCjUvo5ecPPjW52fSyin3FQEMTLmGSSO3PnhUvoZa0iZlGa2TyjMLmvaoLfteOemDBARdSdGFd2iMzKuXzzp6lIEz2PLfhquyK43hkYkZJ5_DAvE/s1600/DSC_0021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVtsZe3Yub2Wfv7ifzP-LT5yf0GjfwCjUvo5ecPPjW52fSyin3FQEMTLmGSSO3PnhUvoZa0iZlGa2TyjMLmvaoLfteOemDBARdSdGFd2iMzKuXzzp6lIEz2PLfhquyK43hkYkZJ5_DAvE/s200/DSC_0021.JPG" width="131" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;">Two way toggle, long version</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #990000;">Well, I finally stopped thinking and worrying and started playing. This is what I came up with. The two-way toggle is such a great design for showcasing more than one cool piece, and it is versatile (can wear it long or short), so she might be more likely to like it. But, I had never made one before with so many large parts. I picked out some of my favorite orange and red beads (Zack and I have similar favorites, so I had many to choose from). I found a small clear square lego that was red and wrapped it in filigree--it looks like a message in an envelope to me. I decided to dangle that little message on the wing, adding a pop of color to the large antique brass wing. Many times when I was wrapping the beads, my eyes were so wet that it was hard to see what I was doing. When this piece was finished, I felt emotionally drained.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYKR3RMfDqaPVFky0wQntjzMe3Zd6SAZvPrLMAoNQOeMJ11wnS-N2AAiEvrBpUzhq6HWlwQCe150fNU_7KLVY_dF24v4hw2FsKs9mYvX4FUBOrneX3T832LHtwug3SXE1en4SZK9gD2A/s1600/DSC_0032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYKR3RMfDqaPVFky0wQntjzMe3Zd6SAZvPrLMAoNQOeMJ11wnS-N2AAiEvrBpUzhq6HWlwQCe150fNU_7KLVY_dF24v4hw2FsKs9mYvX4FUBOrneX3T832LHtwug3SXE1en4SZK9gD2A/s200/DSC_0032.JPG" width="133" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;">Two way toggle, short version</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #990000;">It was then that I realized what I will miss most about special orders. It isn't the look on the face when it is delivered and it isn't being able to pull off the challenge (don't get me wrong, those things are great--and if this piece becomes her second favorite piece next to her wedding ring, it will be icing on the cake :). It is the emotional connection I get to make with a few of you. It is you trusting me enough to be raw and vulnerable--sharing your world with me. It is me being able to be there for someone, to touch back. Simply put, it is the connection. Then, I take your stories, your pictures, your hopes and your losses and sit with them. I think about you, your hurt, your joy--whatever you shared with me, while I make that jewelry. I add my hopes--for your future, for your heart, for your dreams--and make you a little piece of jewelry with love. That is what I will truly miss. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">I got a chance to meet Karen's mom on one visit as well. She, too,
was so open and excited to share about Zack. On this visit, they brought
me a bracelet that had broken. This bracelet had beads that were the
same kinds that Zack had picked out with his mom at a bead show right
before he died. His mom had recently picked up the beading hobby, so she
bought more of his picks and beaded a bracelet for each of the women in
their extended family. One special order became two. Karen's mom wanted
me to make a second piece from her. They didn't need to match, but
should both have a part of Zack.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh37qXEVboVJIhfPFPDOJgXOOIn-UokBJBR6mMU7ZhWkoFdhqDsf0TZIrL9blWHbk2YncLsrQyI-0OplWPeyhwmm73Dh3SYZ-jT2JX7CB3qsVxTQzdzykG2pk6FPPiREPt5sFrBMnSawfM/s1600/DSC_0018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh37qXEVboVJIhfPFPDOJgXOOIn-UokBJBR6mMU7ZhWkoFdhqDsf0TZIrL9blWHbk2YncLsrQyI-0OplWPeyhwmm73Dh3SYZ-jT2JX7CB3qsVxTQzdzykG2pk6FPPiREPt5sFrBMnSawfM/s320/DSC_0018.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;">Back-side of the bracelet</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #990000;">I decided that for this one, I really wanted to incorporate Zack's artwork. But, I wanted to do it in a way that was grown up--I mean, he wouldn't be a little boy anymore. I also wanted to use some of his beads. I found these little, sophisticated antique silver links in my stash. I scanned some of his artwork, shrank it, printed it, scanned, shrank and printed again to get it the right size. Then I put them on the back side of the links and set it with resin. After two days, they were ready to use in the bracelet. I went to my favorite bead stash--my czech glass beads. Knowing she likes chunkier, bolder jewelry, I chose from my hoarded large czech glass beads. I have to let you know that these beads are hard for me to use in designs. They are harder to find and it isn't that I don't want to use them, but more that I worry that the piece I add them to will not be worthy. So, I hoard them. Well, I knew they would be perfect, so with joy in my heart they were added to the design. There HAD to be one with orange and red together. And, my favorite drawing, the lizard, had green in it, so I used other czech beads with green. I hope the shell one reminds her of a time collecting seashells with Zack, his tiny hand in hers. The tiny blue and green glass beads and the Z dangling from the end were his. The hand charm says, "play" on the other side, which was the message I heard over and over again while reading his book. Take time to play! Finally, I shaped and hammered the clasp from a piece of wire. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLVRR6ycxVSNZdZph9MVYI9xJcHlpmTY1TCOQlNXR6B_IPtL7IR3txRJOf6UxT-gFfGd_upaE_zTc9zVFSE2YHV2_mhp4GqfVxfBjDfk5P9EfDwUxFZmdcnTc96y4npTaGg4mHw47mGw/s1600/DSC_0017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLVRR6ycxVSNZdZph9MVYI9xJcHlpmTY1TCOQlNXR6B_IPtL7IR3txRJOf6UxT-gFfGd_upaE_zTc9zVFSE2YHV2_mhp4GqfVxfBjDfk5P9EfDwUxFZmdcnTc96y4npTaGg4mHw47mGw/s320/DSC_0017.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;">Bracelet, the view when worn</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #990000;">I truly appreciate the opportunity to connect that each of you has given me when placing a special order with N's Whims. I am pretty sure that on many occasions I received more from the process than you. You have reminded me over and over what truly matters and allowed me to give with love. I know now that I will need to find another way to connect with others--maybe it is volunteering for people who are going through tough times, or even joyous times. Regardless, I will be on the hunt for "Lutes love moments" as we have coined them in our house. Times, often totally unexpected, when we can reach out to others and touch them with love in our hearts--making the world a little bit better for all of us!</span><br />
<br />Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-71178276047082745422013-04-15T12:52:00.001-07:002013-04-15T12:57:00.538-07:00Change, Change, everywhere change....<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">NEW DATE for the Spring N's Whims Open House: Sunday, May 5th from 2-5pm. </span></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;">This is a first fo<span style="font-size: small;">r me--changing the date of an open house, but there were several vendors who had conf<span style="font-size: small;">licts and I wanted a <span style="font-size: small;">full open house with l<span style="font-size: small;">ot<span style="font-size: small;">s of fun hand-made items. So, we changed the date and I couldn't be more excited with the many fun things that will be available at this open house! I still have a few openings, so <span style="font-size: small;">if you know of a talented artist who makes something you haven't seen here before<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">, have them contact me!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://profile.ak.fbcdn.net/hprofile-ak-ash3/c47.47.591.591/s200x200/16387_211915642281979_802295951_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Caroline's Vintage" border="0" class="profilePic img" id="u_0_k" src="http://profile.ak.fbcdn.net/hprofile-ak-ash3/c47.47.591.591/s200x200/16387_211915642281979_802295951_n.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-size: large;">Caroline Designs has been here before with her adorable sewn items (skirts, ruffle pants, purses and snack bags), which <span style="font-size: large;">will be available<span style="font-size: large;">, </span></span>but I am also excited to introduce their new company, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/CarolinesVintage?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">Caroline's Vintage</a>. </span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<a href="http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/558836_235368469936696_2093051944_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" class="spotlight" height="320" src="http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/558836_235368469936696_2093051944_n.jpg" style="height: 520px; width: 388px;" width="238" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Carol<span style="font-size: small;">ine's Vintage is a joint venture between my<span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: small;">equally talented <span style="font-size: small;">parents. My dad has always been able to make just about anything (seriously, <span style="font-size: small;">while <span style="font-size: small;">re-modeling <span style="font-size: small;">our attic <span style="font-size: small;">into a bathroom, his response was always<span style="font-size: small;">, "anything is do<span style="font-size: small;">-able...."<span style="font-size: small;">)<span style="font-size: small;">, and my mom <span style="font-size: small;">enjoy<span style="font-size: small;">s em<span style="font-size: small;">bellis<span style="font-size: small;">hing whatever he makes :). They have found w<span style="font-size: small;">himsical ways to add a touch of the past to their creations, making almost everything they sell one of a kind. <span style="font-size: small;">You will want to come early to have the best selection<span style="font-size: small;">! I love these little fairie doors--my girls<span style="font-size: small;"> can't decide w<span style="font-size: small;">hich is <span style="font-size: small;">their favorite! You shoul<span style="font-size: small;">d defin<span style="font-size: small;">itely head <span style="font-size: small;">over to their facebook page and <span style="font-size: small;">check out all of the t<span style="font-size: small;">hings<span style="font-size: small;"> they have been creating. While you are there, like it and tell them I <span style="font-size: small;">sent you (<span style="font-size: small;">can't hurt my attempts to remain the favorite<span style="font-size: small;">, lol)! </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><span style="font-size: large;"> So, don't forget, the <span style="font-size: large;">Spring Open House will now be Sunday, M<span style="font-size: large;">ay 5<span style="font-size: large;">th from 2-5<span style="font-size: large;">pm. <span style="font-size: large;">N's Wh<span style="font-size: large;">ims items will s<span style="font-size: large;">till be 10% off<span style="font-size: large;">. I will have open <span style="font-size: large;">hours from 9-11 this <span style="font-size: large;">Saturday<span style="font-size: large;">, i<span style="font-size: large;">n case someone doesn't <span style="font-size: large;">get th<span style="font-size: large;">is m<span style="font-size: large;">emo about the new ti<span style="font-size: large;">me (or if you <span style="font-size: large;">need to shop for something fun). I will be honoring th<span style="font-size: large;">e sale then as w<span style="font-size: large;">ell!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-12125535805233118782013-04-09T07:31:00.000-07:002013-04-15T12:57:48.715-07:00The open house is almost here!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsQ83uz7KF1wOoQy5jRFcINwhfjq2jIA-ZwfO1oUv5XU_ztU9ERMttk5hhgwAey-Lxei097ALaMHr4PDy4Vf0BAokN0bJwCxCaEo3XKQw_GCh1LMtTuPpNKJ_syVkvCAd_grWlAj9YwLU/s1600/gail+clutter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsQ83uz7KF1wOoQy5jRFcINwhfjq2jIA-ZwfO1oUv5XU_ztU9ERMttk5hhgwAey-Lxei097ALaMHr4PDy4Vf0BAokN0bJwCxCaEo3XKQw_GCh1LMtTuPpNKJ_syVkvCAd_grWlAj9YwLU/s320/gail+clutter.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">I am so excited to announce that Gail Clutter will be at the N's Whims Open House on May 5th from 2-5pm. You may be familiar with the name because she was recently featured in the <a href="http://www.hngnews.com/waunakee_tribune/community/arts_and_entertainment/article_a43e7dea-8b54-11e2-90ef-001a4bcf6878.html" target="_blank">Waunakee Tribune</a>! She is the owner and artist/photographer of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/amothersartphotography" target="_blank">A Mother's Art Photography</a>. I can't wait to have her do our family photographs as soon as it dries out this spring! She will have lots of examples of her work for you to look at--I know you are going to want to get your photography session on the books as well. </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc4Z41360m81XiMZAdCJojody9aqDUTau3IJppcNd9gpWgpffkN3KTo5vrgKkSC2rsHraF8-LPK8McVWFIPTouKeA2fad5C8X9s3P572r6E1qEurzbCX_j293ny9rmNoBzpvfjnnMQBt8/s1600/an+orphan%27s+wish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc4Z41360m81XiMZAdCJojody9aqDUTau3IJppcNd9gpWgpffkN3KTo5vrgKkSC2rsHraF8-LPK8McVWFIPTouKeA2fad5C8X9s3P572r6E1qEurzbCX_j293ny9rmNoBzpvfjnnMQBt8/s320/an+orphan%27s+wish.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Not only is Gail an amazing artist, but she has such a heart for orphans as well. Gail is the volunteer photography editor for <a href="http://www.facebook.com/AnOrphansWish" target="_blank">An Orphan's Wish</a>, which just happens to be the charity the vendors are supporting for this open house. 10% of profits from this open house will be donated to An Orphan's Wish. An Orphan's Wish is a non-profit organization of dedicated volunteers
striving to reflect God's heart by caring for and improving the lives of
orphans in China. Over 97% of every donation goes directly to programs
for children. You have to see some of the pictures Gail took when she was there last fall--gorgeous! When I read her<a href="https://www.anorphanswish.org/blog/2012/12/05/their-hearts-speak/" target="_blank"> blog post</a> about her trip, I knew then that I HAD to feature this orphanage at an upcoming open house. I am sure you will agree--I can't wait to see what we can do together for this amazing effort to spread love to those considered unlove-able by society!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Stay tuned for more<span style="font-size: large;"> details on the other amazing artists who will be at the N's Whi<span style="font-size: large;">m<span style="font-size: large;">s <span style="font-size: large;">O<span style="font-size: large;">pen House on <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sunday, May 5th<span style="font-size: large;"> from 2-5pm<span style="font-size: large;">. I will be blogging all week to let you know. <span style="font-size: large;">As always, <span style="font-size: large;">there will be a craft-to-give back table featur<span style="font-size: large;">ing some fun <span style="font-size: large;">items<span style="font-size: large;">--and all proceeds from <span style="font-size: large;">sales go to <a href="http://abuseintervention.org/" target="_blank">DAIS</a> of Madison, supporting victims of domest<span style="font-size: large;">ic abuse<span style="font-size: large;">. And,<span style="font-size: large;"> in case you haven't heard, N's Whims is having a sale--on ALL N's Whi<span style="font-size: large;">ms merchandise. Only the second time ever. I wan<span style="font-size: large;">t <span style="font-size: large;">to say thank you to each and every one of you who has made my business a success! </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <br />
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<br />Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-23480376181426668412013-03-15T12:14:00.001-07:002013-03-15T12:21:05.553-07:00Where in the whim is N?!I feel I need to give a warning with this blog post--it might get real, it might get long (cuz when n gets real, it's rarely short) and it might get messy. So, if you don't have the time, the patience or the heart to hang tough with me, you have my permission to scroll to the end and find the cliff note version!<br />
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There has been a funk that has been growing in my heart for many months. It has been hard to see through the fog and get to the bottom of it. There have been thoughts that I have been afraid to even whisper, and when I have dared, the response of those I trust has been an echo of my very deepest fears.You see, the journey of N's Whims has become such a part of me that I had difficulty even separating it. But, through a great heart to heart with my M, I have come to see that while the story of N's Whims doesn't exist without N, the story of N is so much more. What began as an interest, grew into a hobby, then a tiny business, then a part-time job. It has been such a thrill! I can remember the thrill of making the first item that I was excited to wear, and how quickly that thrill exploded as each of you have found something you are proud to wear! If I am honest, my self-esteem has grown with each 'like' of my pieces, each published approval, each and every purchase, and the confidence you show when you entrust me with your special orders. In the beginning, I thought of myself as a dabbler, an imitator even--now, through your eyes, I see myself as an artist. You don't know the gift you have given me! It is so scary to even think of closing that door even an inch....<br />
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However, what began as a way to renew myself, be creative, play with my mind and my hands, take a break from reality, has turned into an obligation. N's Whims must be fed. I have packages of new beads that are waiting to be opened. I have beautiful beads piled up in a basket waiting to be put away! There was a time when a package of beads would come and I would tear into it, sit down and make something from the package right away. I have tupperwares of vintage goodies begging for my time. If I am honest, I have begun to create what I think you will want rather than let the pieces speak to me. While that may not seem huge on the surface (I still like what I make, it still feels like N's Whims to me), it doesn't renew me as it once did. I no longer challenge my mind in the way I used to, I have become complacent.<br />
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Another issue is that there is more to me than N's Whims. I have always prided myself on being a good friend. Thoughtful, aware, present. When I got married, this flowed into good wife and later good mother as well. This is and always has been a huge facet of my persona. However, in the past few years, I have used the excuse of "not enough time" more than I am proud to admit. I have allowed my obligations to commandeer the time I used to readily give to my relationships. Today, I admitted to Mike that it sounds hollow in my heart when I use the excuse that I don't have time to sit for coffee, or to attend Bible Study, or to take a walk or to just sit and chat. I hate that I don't have the energy to call a friend or one of my sisters after I put the girls on the bus or to bed. Many of my relationships have suffered as a result, and this undoubtedly has added to the funk! Now that I have said it outloud and in print, it seems ridiculous that I have been telling myself that I just don't have time for the important relationships in my life. As long as I can remember, I have always maintained that relationships and making the world a better place for others is the biggest reason we exist! How did I lose sight of that?!<br />
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Yes, there are many other things during these last two years that have also changed in my life to take some of my time and energy. My children have needed me more--even though they are now in school full time, challenges keep arising that require my attention to help them succeed. But, that is part of my role as mother, and one that I cannot remove. I will never be able to control how much they need me and will try to relish every time I can be there while they still beg for it!<br />
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I have also started teaching group exercise classes again--7 a week. But, again, this is what my body needs to stay healthy (I have PCOS and it is controlled largely through my weight). I cannot lessen the amount or intensity without having it negatively affect my health, as well as my ability to be emotionally present in my life. <br />
I am sure there are other changes that I haven't even identified yet, but they are not something that I am willing to let go of. While it is scary to think of letting go of N's Whims, I have to imagine it. I have to see if I can still be N without it--if I want to. Maybe in the end I will go back to making jewelry as a hobby (with a much better stash of beads :). Maybe I will just make things for gifts. Maybe I will only open once or twice a year. Maybe I will find my passion and balance again and just adjust a few things. I don't know what the future brings for N's Whims, but what I do know is that I want to be proud of N again. Not just proud of N the artist, but N the friend, mom, wife, sister, community member. I want to read for fun again. I want to make a wreath. I want to decorate my house (have you ever noticed that other than the boutique and a few other half-hearted attempts, my house looks much like we just moved in?!). I want to finally make something with those goat bells I found over a month ago! I want to have coffee and just chat. I want to follow the whims of N again.<br />
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N's Whims is changing. I am not sure what it will look like at the end
of the metamorphosis, but I do know the first stage is going to be
dormant. I want to stop and be in each moment, listening for what is important. <br />
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<span style="background-color: #cc0000;"><span style="background-color: white;"></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Cliff note version</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="background-color: white;">: </span></span></span>N's Whims is going to take at least a few months off. If I have already agreed to work on your special order, I will be working on it before I take a break. If you have a jewelry need, let me know and we can find a good time for you to stop and shop. On April 20th, there will be an amazing open house from 9-noon. We will be raising money for An Orphan's Wish, and as always, you will find wonderful hand-made items from several vendors. As a huge <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">thank you</span> <span style="color: #cc0000;"></span></span> for all of your support and encouragement of N's Whims on this crazy ride, I will be holding the second sale in the history of my business. All N's Whims items will be 10% off that day! Following the open house, I will take some time away from N's Whims. I will not be taking any special orders and may or may not even be making jewelry. I don't know what will follow that hiatus, but I am hopeful that if jewelry continues to be my whim, the jewelry will be even more inspired and joyfully created. You will be the first to know!Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-45274663613453878382013-01-27T16:21:00.003-08:002013-01-27T18:33:35.123-08:00Lily's Luau<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjccFgzVFUP_oxaDKaJcXoV5OO5LXMUJDO2wpQvOkC1cHXlFhXE7jacgHlijlrpJWcZfhlq7hbBwz2MhBK6oFabAmKe-1LtJrX5wnGGY0G9SdCsbDmvGUyxjcqe2Gd9MMp9NdNZpplzYMY/s200/DSC_0318.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="193" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dresser before....</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-size: small;">What a neat experience for N's Whims and Craft to Give Back! Several months ago, one of our Craft to Give Back volunteers donated a wooden dresser to Craft to Give Back. We have been tossing around the idea of gussying up some used furniture with good bones and either selling them to raise money for charity or donating them to DAIS for families starting out with nothing after fleeing abusive relationships. So, Jill O'Toole dropped off this awesome sized wooden dresser that was a bit blah. It sat for several months in the garage, taunting me. I wanted to work on the first one alone before we tackled any projects as a group. In the meantime, Patti Hottmann, another Craft to Give Back volunteer mentioned that Lily's Luau was coming up. Lily's Luau is the biggest fundraiser of the year for Lily's fund, which raises money for epilepsy research. Patti's oldest daughter, has epilepsy and <span style="font-size: small;">she was serving as <span style="font-size: small;">one of the hosts for this years event.</span></span> This seemed like the perfect venue for our first dresser re-do! Now, there was a deadline (which is often what finally gets me to move from dreaming to doing)!<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinioPaffyj9PBIuS_bkQWjtSk5X9x6rBjoGu78PVD8kI3TPtX36_nvRPk05nSn3NXgt2Gk_N0GluDQFcCeQSY-gi5TkrtuZ1j286ZBMNYl5j8e39Yo_zgo_Y17WCI_YqPIZRjW6RlehW4/s1600/DSC_0319.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinioPaffyj9PBIuS_bkQWjtSk5X9x6rBjoGu78PVD8kI3TPtX36_nvRPk05nSn3NXgt2Gk_N0GluDQFcCeQSY-gi5TkrtuZ1j286ZBMNYl5j8e39Yo_zgo_Y17WCI_YqPIZRjW6RlehW4/s200/DSC_0319.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The drawers before....</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBw7d5Cx__UyxqCr21t9200JOoFUm9XgjvsFV6BRswo3C5_bA9I2Hpj2Z-Y_DzwMXXShmWAKoJjdmk6UimWZciOwyXxLssS1a4_m71Y5EIx60Hvej9wyie8FWgqOTiu2T0AJUzxd_Uvwg/s1600/DSC_0320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBw7d5Cx__UyxqCr21t9200JOoFUm9XgjvsFV6BRswo3C5_bA9I2Hpj2Z-Y_DzwMXXShmWAKoJjdmk6UimWZciOwyXxLssS1a4_m71Y5EIx60Hvej9wyie8FWgqOTiu2T0AJUzxd_Uvwg/s200/DSC_0320.JPG" width="100" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside of drawers painted!</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Nicole Mihalas<span style="font-size: small;">, an<span style="font-size: small;">other Craft to Gi<span style="font-size: small;">ve Back regular, happened to have a can of Laguna Blue paint leftover from painting Zoe's room. She <span style="font-size: small;">dropped it off and I got to work cleaning<span style="font-size: small;">, sanding and removing <span style="font-size: small;">hardware. <span style="font-size: small;">N<span style="font-size: small;">ext<span style="font-size: small;">, I <span style="font-size: small;">painted the inside of the drawers and the drawer pulls espresso brown. What a difference that alone made!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First coat on and drying....</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;">Of course, when I purchased the spray paint, I only purchased one can and ran out right on my last drawer. I searched my stash of spray paint and found another half-finished can of the same color--can you believe it?! That NEVER happens to me! Once the drawers were drying, it was time for the first coat of blue--why was I so nervous? It turned out to be the perfect blue for a luau inspired dresser! I added a coat of blue to the outside of the drawers and day one was finished. The next morning began with sanding again--so glad that Mike and I bought a power sander for our anniversary last year :). Next up, wipe it all down again and then added a second coat. Such a pretty color in real life! I found a beautiful hibiscus flower picture, which is the symbol for Lily's Luau, and sent it to my parents, the owners of Vintage Caroline. They made and donated the hot pink vinyl hibiscus flowers for the top of the dresser. </span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Ta-Da!</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTRgZ0MR88R091yr_tTaYDt2w8OJco4T_XMjhU_W_3ux7Z-wegpt9NfFcnOeM3p-reNVdo2yVjkRtkxB6fBylrDnPppiA6iz2Nc4hmGqLOc3clWaqFoS6FrrRdOvHAAttg_-lmxq_NZII/s1600/DSC_0468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTRgZ0MR88R091yr_tTaYDt2w8OJco4T_XMjhU_W_3ux7Z-wegpt9NfFcnOeM3p-reNVdo2yVjkRtkxB6fBylrDnPppiA6iz2Nc4hmGqLOc3clWaqFoS6FrrRdOvHAAttg_-lmxq_NZII/s320/DSC_0468.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO3XANiDjCfhvCQPVAGCJ9H6Mo6PkCJwtHVF262I7ntnEc-kTGwGoFeTJzNJ5R4Wty9i-A4kBjKCza-mmy_JzudMu7ohvjA8EhHxBSfyw3n22v9PlLtkmGLyQQzj29ikJ2Zf21J86wVeM/s1600/lily's+luau.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO3XANiDjCfhvCQPVAGCJ9H6Mo6PkCJwtHVF262I7ntnEc-kTGwGoFeTJzNJ5R4Wty9i-A4kBjKCza-mmy_JzudMu7ohvjA8EhHxBSfyw3n22v9PlLtkmGLyQQzj29ikJ2Zf21J86wVeM/s320/lily's+luau.jpg" width="99" /></a><span style="color: #134f5c;">Now, all that was left was to get dressed up, join a few Craft to Give Back ladies, and enjoy the coconut shrimp, island drinks and festive music--all for an excellent cause! We managed to have a great night, lots of giggles, met some fabulous young ladies living courageously with epilepsy--and, I walked away winning a basket of aveda products and pedicures for the four of us! I cannot tell you the thrill of seeing that our humble little dresser (along with a $25 gift card to Matilda Jane donated by Nicole Mihalas) went for $310 in the silent auction! Love the generosity we witnessed for a great cause last night. I learned that Lily's fund actually pays for research fellows focused entirely on finding a cure for epilepsy. Awesome job, Lily and family! Super duper fun and exciting night! Just goes to show how a community of women looking to bring a positive touch can make a difference! Can't wait to hear what the overall amount raised was. If you are looking for a great cause and a fun gala, you will need to make sure you get your tickets to Lily's Luau early next year--they sold out this year! And, if you have paint, furniture or painting supplies to donate, please keep Craft to Give Back in mind! We would love to take your donation, add a bit of love and make it grow into something even bigger....</span><br />
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<br />Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-40462699000505117512012-12-12T10:32:00.000-08:002012-12-12T10:48:33.143-08:00Quick little post<span style="color: #76a5af;"><span style="font-size: large;">I really shouldn't be blogging right now--since my to-do list is still a mile long, BUT....</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #76a5af;"><span style="font-size: large;">I was on a hunt for a really cool vintage looking chain (which I never did find the source of) and some of my fellow bead pals sent me some links for good sources. I found some great vintage chains at <a href="http://www.agrainofsand.com/" target="_blank">A Grain of Sand</a></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #76a5af;"><span style="font-size: large;">AND, they have really reasonable prices. LOVE it!! </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #76a5af;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_p2J02319RoKpwe_9nOj6ANqofksYI5yPJ35yi2CYwPHtGdrvaQPX4WcIhnAQRfUXOE9IInfCQbb8vXXBrM5RwyJ4L6Kx2LuMBLrpMWJw83nG4gjNau-JN3PwdHaD7IrSxoJd92s5PFs/s1600/beadblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_p2J02319RoKpwe_9nOj6ANqofksYI5yPJ35yi2CYwPHtGdrvaQPX4WcIhnAQRfUXOE9IInfCQbb8vXXBrM5RwyJ4L6Kx2LuMBLrpMWJw83nG4gjNau-JN3PwdHaD7IrSxoJd92s5PFs/s200/beadblog.jpg" width="150" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #76a5af;"><span style="font-size: large;">I am also going to try once again to get the <a href="http://othercuriosities.blogspot.com/2012/12/on-road-again.html#comment-f" target="_blank">Art Bead Love Tour</a> to stop at my little studio! Who wouldn't love a chance to take up to 30 of these lovelies and trade for other beads made by artists?! If you would like a chance, click on the above link and make a comment!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #76a5af;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Finally, I wanted to share a picture of the gift <span style="font-size: large;">that <span style="font-size: large;">my girls' <span style="font-size: large;">Daisy and Browni<span style="font-size: large;">e tro<span style="font-size: large;">op leaders are g<span style="font-size: large;">etting this year. Do you ever crack yourself up?! I must admit that <span style="font-size: large;">I do quite often<span style="font-size: large;">--I have giggled to myself several times making th<span style="font-size: large;">ese :). Maybe it is because I have been spending crazy amounts of hours in my studio alone!<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I just might be cracking, but at least I am having fun :D. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDUregXgiIq-ibfvjtICe8mozd8TYcD29ZaNb1T2LiS-jTwGVJD7JvICaW9f22f-QnHxwc2kKvtadnrI40RWbp4AoE7XSkEjk1a2sf1Wad7CwojQKxC3rolgS9FNU8eVrtiZSv8tno_EQ/s1600/DSC_0108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDUregXgiIq-ibfvjtICe8mozd8TYcD29ZaNb1T2LiS-jTwGVJD7JvICaW9f22f-QnHxwc2kKvtadnrI40RWbp4AoE7XSkEjk1a2sf1Wad7CwojQKxC3rolgS9FNU8eVrtiZSv8tno_EQ/s320/DSC_0108.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #76a5af;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">So, I made wine <span style="font-size: large;">glass charms with each girl's first initial. The leader simply chooses the charm that help<span style="font-size: large;">ed her earn her glass of wine that day<span style="font-size: large;">--giggle!</span></span></span> <span style="font-size: large;">These ladies s<span style="font-size: large;">u<span style="font-size: large;">re <span style="font-size: large;">do<span style="font-size: large;"> work hard and the girls just love it. I hope they know th<span style="font-size: large;">at we appreciate them!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #76a5af;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy Holidays to each of you and <span style="font-size: large;">Thank <span style="font-size: large;">YOU for supporting N's Whims during <span style="font-size: large;">2012!</span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <br />
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<a href="http://www.agrainofsand.com/" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1355318960129_387" target="_blank"><span class="" id="lw_1355336196_1"></span></a>Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-19792289822385266582012-11-28T11:31:00.001-08:002012-11-30T06:55:41.869-08:002012 Holiday Open House<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I can't believe we are only one week away! Seems like just yesterday I was putting the final touches on the girls' Halloween costumes! And, yet, in just 6 more days, it will be December.... Which means, the holiday open house is here! Saturday, December 1st from 9-12 at 1418 Blue Ridge Trail. This is in the Southbridge neighborhood in Waunakee, WI. As always, you will find only hand-made, well-made unique items perfect to gift--if you can find a way to part with them :). I can also promise holiday tunes, treats and maybe even an N<span class="texhtml"><sup>2</sup></span> giveaway (hint, hint)!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiie-6GqSElx2ltO-eusQugcotvye6lQYRf7PpFl4EP0nVBqWiA3dhyJzFCk5btSCc10iNT2csiSyVICkoOE6HZ5696NmwqdXdAo4mCIoCyef5qDS73TpWKnhe7ZXuVyoJjHPQyBYGS6E4/s1600/575276_3930939758473_1856131551_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiie-6GqSElx2ltO-eusQugcotvye6lQYRf7PpFl4EP0nVBqWiA3dhyJzFCk5btSCc10iNT2csiSyVICkoOE6HZ5696NmwqdXdAo4mCIoCyef5qDS73TpWKnhe7ZXuVyoJjHPQyBYGS6E4/s320/575276_3930939758473_1856131551_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I am especially excited to share with you the giving back part of this open house. It is two-part this time. First of all, the vendors will be sharing a percentage of profits with <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Got-Love/252906864794746?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">Got Love?</a> This is a local group with big dreams of changing the lives of many families in Guatemala. All of the artists will be donating money to purchase used and refurbished sewing machines for women in Guatemala. This will give Guatemalan women a way to create their own crafts to sell and help support their families! How is that for crafting to give back--for more crafting! So super cool if you ask me! </span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">These women have never worked an electric sewing machine before. On their last trip Annette Kruschek's daughter and Mother-n-law taught women
how to operate a machine. Now these women are teaching others within
the village how to use the machines that were purchased. It has been
very successful and many items have been made since their trip. I love the, "Sewing Hope"
project. That is the ultimate goal... hope for a brighter future!! </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Annette Kruschek will also have a <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Got-Love/252906864794746?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">Got Love?</a> table full of hand-made items made by Guatemalans. The proceeds from these purchases go right back to helping the needy in Guatemala. You are really going to want to check out their facebook page and see the amazing ways that they are giving back in this country with so many shortages. Annette will also be able to tell you so much more about what they have done and are planning to do. Of course, if you would like to sponsor a sewing machine yourself, you can donate directly at the open house as well. Giving a working sewing machine to a family is only $35!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The second way to give back at this open house is at the Craft to Give back table. Once a month, a group of amazing women get together and make things to help N's Whims give back to the community. N's Whims donates all of the supplies for each crafting session. Then, we work together to make the projects. We are now selling some of the fun things we make. ALL proceeds from the sales of these items will be donated to <a href="http://abuseintervention.org/about/contact/" target="_blank">DAIS</a> (Domestic Abuse Intervention Services) in Madison. How cool is that?! Here are some pictures of a few of the items that will be available at the Craft to give back table. Also, we would like to refurbish some outdated/unwanted furniture with good bones to sell at future open houses. If you have some furniture (even if broken, we can re-purpose parts) or paints you would like to donate, please let me know!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVhqygorL7iBlT05FGA_Szfny0zISDJk8VzxCCwJB07Tlq4QUb3OvJGAvJ6jNb3hsRXGDhALPHyjxX3TND1nxrTZtEL8LMvQQQZRCTR55PlJ6A4IvKaydWdXMgj6997AbLdoidF1xwxc/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVhqygorL7iBlT05FGA_Szfny0zISDJk8VzxCCwJB07Tlq4QUb3OvJGAvJ6jNb3hsRXGDhALPHyjxX3TND1nxrTZtEL8LMvQQQZRCTR55PlJ6A4IvKaydWdXMgj6997AbLdoidF1xwxc/s200/012.JPG" width="133" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Now that you know about all the ways you can feel even better about spending your money at the open house, let me give you some clues as to who will be here and what kinds of amazing handmade goodies you might find! Of course, you will find <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ns-Whims/118827522010" target="_blank">N's Whims</a> jewelry and other whims--I am going to be a jewelry making fiend this week, and won't be posting any of the new lovelies so there will be lots of suprises! Come early for the best selection as many will be one of a kinds! Bring a guest who is new to N's Whims and get 10% off of one N's Whims item at the open house! Make sure you let me know because it can get CRAZY during the open houses! Oh, and I should also let you know that I have someone on board to help me bag and ring this time AND my studio is now across the hall, so there is more room to browse in the boutique now! Woohoo! You will also find many N<span class="texhtml"><sup>2</sup></span> items in my boutique. These are fun projects that Nicole Mihalas and I create together--she is amazingly talented and so much fun to be with. So, we combine both of our skills and creativity to come up with some cool creations to sell. There are also a few items made by our girls, Zoe and Bella--gotta keep them busy while we are crafting! If you need some sticky bands from <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cdel-Design/146501895394635?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">Cdel design</a>, you can pick them up in my boutique as well. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Dede's beautiful stained glass pieces will also be available at this open house. She will have several smaller pieces that are perfect for gift giving! Her glass items were very popular at the last open house! She will also have some winter hats--they are one size fits most. All of my girls and I enjoy wearing them all winter long! Here is a sample of her abstract glasswork--one of the pieces that makes me smile every time I walk into my living room :). </span></span>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFKA4a24AF71EThTQ1uv1RKsRdtJ8qF4q4f5LQCN0sv3FuqhCVUvS45YpHdEdGCS13QzpFH-iv7aZyx-_w0bTKsJ1ERUIviweCjfIU8LJjbcNalwpgmoSZ_-2xVbGA_j2KeZoTciIMXSo/s1600/DSC_2929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFKA4a24AF71EThTQ1uv1RKsRdtJ8qF4q4f5LQCN0sv3FuqhCVUvS45YpHdEdGCS13QzpFH-iv7aZyx-_w0bTKsJ1ERUIviweCjfIU8LJjbcNalwpgmoSZ_-2xVbGA_j2KeZoTciIMXSo/s400/DSC_2929.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Sue Jacobs, who works at Arboretum School, is going to be joining us for the first time. She makes beautiful bags and purses--as well as other cool items. I don't have a picture for you--you'll just have to trust me that you'll want to arrive early and check out her items because they are mostly one of a kinds and are likely to sell quickly! Her items are so well made and use such cute fabrics. You are going to LOVE them! </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDAHdpLe50GSWNmul9z2K7rrVHG9Q6PscvBwPb7yzEmbWjuZPyxzqflWSXy0ZaMX56lJAF3Nx9vDlr9TB2YGoXHC7eCxTKn3cb8nvfg-WmZxs-t9Ei7CI8fVLDqLatZmFjsRQd9lyBNLE/s1600/mom+skirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDAHdpLe50GSWNmul9z2K7rrVHG9Q6PscvBwPb7yzEmbWjuZPyxzqflWSXy0ZaMX56lJAF3Nx9vDlr9TB2YGoXHC7eCxTKn3cb8nvfg-WmZxs-t9Ei7CI8fVLDqLatZmFjsRQd9lyBNLE/s200/mom+skirt.jpg" width="163" /></a></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Caroline Designs has been busy coming up with some new items. Her new skirt design is especially cute and whimsical. I love the little details on these skirts--each is one of a kind! She is also making the adorable ruffled pants pictured on the right. These are a great alternative option under skirts and dresses in the winter. My girls love wearing them because they feel like pj's, without looking like it :). She will have hair accessories, green snack bags, gnome doors & other skirts available as well. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHNnSDorFVuX3uZtXEcioaQfwJw0MUz_Ltkq2KTC4uS_ezbZ5TlbHVP6bI-gXleBkrBAevFYVfftnhP9iR04XarLY0FeouPoFO7gkLwezr4ZyVSvAvpPAULwBoHfMxyVlwu0mWmklP99Q/s1600/mom+pants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHNnSDorFVuX3uZtXEcioaQfwJw0MUz_Ltkq2KTC4uS_ezbZ5TlbHVP6bI-gXleBkrBAevFYVfftnhP9iR04XarLY0FeouPoFO7gkLwezr4ZyVSvAvpPAULwBoHfMxyVlwu0mWmklP99Q/s200/mom+pants.jpg" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Super excited to get the rest of my holiday shopping completed at this open house! Can't wait to see you all there! </span></span></span>Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-90417992633917050202012-09-21T09:03:00.001-07:002012-09-21T09:04:29.061-07:00And, finally, the last vendor at the open house will be....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWWaoemzpsT5aX7u12E8Fb5cgsExgKw-8ey-ZThUotO3tBro9_NofDg1eRbN15Sc-X-JPpC7NXewTWtzXXyZO_xRWU1wK8Gl4YeAYN-jfbPRjH3MUTPLg2OMfFPTdpzB7Ps5dSkDwLbY/s1600/regal+find.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWWaoemzpsT5aX7u12E8Fb5cgsExgKw-8ey-ZThUotO3tBro9_NofDg1eRbN15Sc-X-JPpC7NXewTWtzXXyZO_xRWU1wK8Gl4YeAYN-jfbPRjH3MUTPLg2OMfFPTdpzB7Ps5dSkDwLbY/s400/regal+find.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #990000;">Jessica Regele!</span> </span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;">Jessica owns <a href="http://regalfind.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Regal Find</a>, a gift & craft shop located in
downtown Middleton. This little shop will be filled with handmade,
local and vintage finds. There will also be a dedicated space for
workshops, crafting treasures and parties. A special event is scheduled
at the shop for the end of November and the shop will then be open
full-time in February. Jessica is currently taking applications for crafters
interested in selling lovelies at the shop!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000;">Jessica specializing in re-purposed finds. The picture above features a pre-loved cabinet front and a found clearance floral arrangement (that needed some serious holiday bling). So much fun! Can't wait to see all the goodies she will be bringing with her--and how fun will it be to stop in and shop early next year, then step right next door and pick up a lovely treat from Bloom to eat! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000;">Looking so forward to seeing everyone at the Fall N's Whims Open House this Sunday (yes, only 2 more days!) from 2-5pm. 1418 Blue Ridge Trail, Waunakee. Come early for the best selection. Many of the treasures available are one of a kind and are likely to be scooped up quickly! <br /> </span>Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-73899287212866016132012-09-19T05:04:00.005-07:002012-09-19T05:15:02.966-07:00Love waking up to the light through my windows!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWGgHguccPEi21DilSmP_w1JH8NXAI8VfXmB27UvPbyZ9eAvdFA_HLe-i0wqcdL7Qa0o4y1DVOdc_43jV1QDonhNhv2h5Zh-zwOyBDwAqsZ7rtxXtxRQUdU71nsXgZ7B0Nz3n_hFHJF0Q/s1600/DSC_2930.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWGgHguccPEi21DilSmP_w1JH8NXAI8VfXmB27UvPbyZ9eAvdFA_HLe-i0wqcdL7Qa0o4y1DVOdc_43jV1QDonhNhv2h5Zh-zwOyBDwAqsZ7rtxXtxRQUdU71nsXgZ7B0Nz3n_hFHJF0Q/s400/DSC_2930.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a piece Dede made us, I love how it reminds me of the beach--sand, baubles and blue-green ocean waters....</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4gLKeK8cE8g-CF7URXKiibG20qo9SEkpFEudeqQH4ev3bbnMMrgtMEQ6tE0yL3SJJyEHqWCbOsGQoR1g0G9rZHQR4kClXB0XApGH4g47d-EQ3ptytnx6850bejbpTdMP5D28cdQGN4_k/s1600/DSC_2928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4gLKeK8cE8g-CF7URXKiibG20qo9SEkpFEudeqQH4ev3bbnMMrgtMEQ6tE0yL3SJJyEHqWCbOsGQoR1g0G9rZHQR4kClXB0XApGH4g47d-EQ3ptytnx6850bejbpTdMP5D28cdQGN4_k/s200/DSC_2928.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Dede Kauffman will be at the open house this Sunday, 2-5pm. If you have ever noticed (or heard me going on and on about) the stained glass in my windows, you know Dede does beautiful work! If you haven't, here are two of my favorite pieces that sit in my boutique windows.</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNxFmEbpdhaULH_oiKYesuwtUtuzgrYTfKynfijZ28gK_p0654U5n7_WHhcaX-Us3Rs-MoXskuMb4aXu7lNqCoF02dHVdjVEnyhjnLDBSOCF86bVkzKr3L-XOS8NLez-T1HlhNyWgDMts/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNxFmEbpdhaULH_oiKYesuwtUtuzgrYTfKynfijZ28gK_p0654U5n7_WHhcaX-Us3Rs-MoXskuMb4aXu7lNqCoF02dHVdjVEnyhjnLDBSOCF86bVkzKr3L-XOS8NLez-T1HlhNyWgDMts/s200/001.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Pure happiness when I walk into my studio to begin working and see the sunshine coming through my windows, lighting up the office and casting shades of orange! These two are just perfect for me--down to the swirls and the cracked glass jewels!</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPP6OjEGlVIcTFa2CU-J5ClgmooKbLVn_TS1rZQW7qWLdYM0DvCwtm8nRCwRVLvt4aJFQGxoe7qpOk7ZA5ykqJCOVyucV1JPMQ_IS5WqX9SYpt5eeTxoOZH9VQba6wy1_aNyDX3I2d_d4/s1600/DSC_2929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPP6OjEGlVIcTFa2CU-J5ClgmooKbLVn_TS1rZQW7qWLdYM0DvCwtm8nRCwRVLvt4aJFQGxoe7qpOk7ZA5ykqJCOVyucV1JPMQ_IS5WqX9SYpt5eeTxoOZH9VQba6wy1_aNyDX3I2d_d4/s400/DSC_2929.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is one of my favorites in my living room--it reminds me of all the jewels and blessings in my family tree....</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlUwotniotYBbz8lVfatFZqlTefLSvXl8_t9b_MqJS6NBdZMLmwhn8zR-8GAmXYxyiknYgAL00OqlWfb4C6ym2dueyoIiRL0HRBTEGQFVt79t0z4IOymvSPcVKHwpVUEs5WklgerFfN0/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlUwotniotYBbz8lVfatFZqlTefLSvXl8_t9b_MqJS6NBdZMLmwhn8zR-8GAmXYxyiknYgAL00OqlWfb4C6ym2dueyoIiRL0HRBTEGQFVt79t0z4IOymvSPcVKHwpVUEs5WklgerFfN0/s200/001.JPG" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bella wearing her fav!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Dede will have some abstract pieces similar to these, as well as some smaller fun pieces. She is also bringing some of the simple warm hats she knits. These are one size fits most--they are super cute on all my girls, and I love to wear them, too!</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw6aaXgpF-LCp9r71wMJ_OLqhholx-odptLF84PdL8bKREYQHbd5SeYnrtn2nmwwr3TDTJMXOwLFQmJPdAljPHXGIp0axpmcBwuuqSgujh2txo7XaxjfLjOkGE1LVI_-7uYnmnPFClh94/s1600/DSC_2937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw6aaXgpF-LCp9r71wMJ_OLqhholx-odptLF84PdL8bKREYQHbd5SeYnrtn2nmwwr3TDTJMXOwLFQmJPdAljPHXGIp0axpmcBwuuqSgujh2txo7XaxjfLjOkGE1LVI_-7uYnmnPFClh94/s320/DSC_2937.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Oh, one more excellent gift idea--Dede makes crash glass collages--here is one she made for me. Bring a favorite picture or two, and if you have a favorite quote printed (scrapbooking items work great for this) and she'll design one for you, too! </span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Only 4 more days to some excellent retail therapy-- </span></span></span>See you on Sunday afternoon!</span></span></span></div>
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<br />Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-87154230573378176152012-09-18T06:02:00.000-07:002012-09-18T06:02:02.742-07:002 new vendors will be in the house!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ-sHUIbOYq1pryHuWdUP5YJNb4ypmzbfz06pvrryQLu48OmHu6hr8P188ioFEZc5GoCCy4IXe3ARV8QapQP8JSGulbeRGb7iMgPpCJh0pWx5wCvjVE9rK4bSmlKdYmkh9alg1QYtVViA/s1600/photo-011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ-sHUIbOYq1pryHuWdUP5YJNb4ypmzbfz06pvrryQLu48OmHu6hr8P188ioFEZc5GoCCy4IXe3ARV8QapQP8JSGulbeRGb7iMgPpCJh0pWx5wCvjVE9rK4bSmlKdYmkh9alg1QYtVViA/s200/photo-011.JPG" width="132" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have been trying to talk my friend, Carla, into bringing her wares to my open houses for quite a while! I don't think you will be disappointed in the least that she has FINALLY accepted! </span></span></b></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtr7B6ZGdR2SAD804YD-pSiL-V47MeBXlynoGZKal63HRsRtsZO3ga1nwcnYQuhzpNF58PTeR0ZUvIJLErZMdxlBRJMouKYriskTABwk-qkwJfjKU80XCAkZA8Jb8VLA4w50cJrEFtK3A/s1600/zsa+zsa+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtr7B6ZGdR2SAD804YD-pSiL-V47MeBXlynoGZKal63HRsRtsZO3ga1nwcnYQuhzpNF58PTeR0ZUvIJLErZMdxlBRJMouKYriskTABwk-qkwJfjKU80XCAkZA8Jb8VLA4w50cJrEFtK3A/s200/zsa+zsa+.jpg" width="171" /></a><span style="background-color: #38761d;"><span style="color: purple;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Carla of Zsa Zsa envisions herself as a part-time, glue-gun-slinging, crafting superhero. Seeking abandoned tablecloths, drapery, and other doo-dads, Carla saves them from a grim fate. With a Zsa Zsa make-over these castaways become beloved objects once again. A drapery becomes a chic “ripped wreath,” a cloth napkin finds panache as a corkboard, vintage patterns become mod trays… Not only are objects recued and restored, but reused! Ergo; Zsa Zsa is saving the planet with her green savvy ways. At the sale, Carla will have: Zsa Zsa Gaboards, wreaths, crafts made from vintage pattern pictures, jewelry boxes, coasters and glamorous glitter skeletons. </span><span></span><span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">An added bonus to getting Carla to commit, we get her momma, too! I love that this becomes a family affair (my momma is the creator at Caroline Designs and my mother-in-love, Dede is the woman behind all of my beautiful stained gla<span></span>ss and winter hats :). Without further ado, I bring you Jean Zirk of Z Creative!</span></span></b></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEkdogqHGJgLC8AXnB-qK8zaXZS7kfh1QroDJQhukaPYcnxwZ-l6v_x3EbcQFv2lb1GDk1mF24eJayK5BjbousknW6wbAtKKcWAayaPI8hzlLsBIgd-Ez464Aj4RwgIRIy5mdJYwM7ghs/s1600/jean's+z+collection.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEkdogqHGJgLC8AXnB-qK8zaXZS7kfh1QroDJQhukaPYcnxwZ-l6v_x3EbcQFv2lb1GDk1mF24eJayK5BjbousknW6wbAtKKcWAayaPI8hzlLsBIgd-Ez464Aj4RwgIRIy5mdJYwM7ghs/s200/jean's+z+collection.jpg" width="173" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Some children are born with a silver spoon; Jean was born holding a needle and thread. The offspring of a potter and home economics teacher, creativity was destined to be in Jean’s genes! As a young mother of four children in the 1970’s, Jean made all her own and her children’s clothing. She even sewed uniforms for Berkley’s cheerleading squad in 1970. These days Jean is enjoying her retirement, her grandchildren and her love for sewing and crafting. At the sale, Jean will have aprons, cards and fall floral arrangements. </span></span></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is shaping up to be the best N's Whims' open house yet! See you this Sunday, 2-5pm!</span></span></b></span></span>Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-72121514448385640082012-09-16T12:08:00.003-07:002012-09-17T05:08:02.875-07:00Back by popular demand....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRSQU11ItsrCQeZta8euiGVNhxDts-R66CE9HKF3tyjq7t1o5WJSla6xgQC-Qu28U1Q-LYNL1xq2j9nnDtImmHHDBdYm888bA4-r4pS6_p0s_BZobeLsdh1nmziWwRgaLMYs4jg9o5jMk/s1600/473696_4042736223176_1571097357_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRSQU11ItsrCQeZta8euiGVNhxDts-R66CE9HKF3tyjq7t1o5WJSla6xgQC-Qu28U1Q-LYNL1xq2j9nnDtImmHHDBdYm888bA4-r4pS6_p0s_BZobeLsdh1nmziWwRgaLMYs4jg9o5jMk/s400/473696_4042736223176_1571097357_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #bf9000;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Nicole Mihalas will have little girls' hoodie dresses and ruffle pants available at N's Whims' fall open house (this Sunday, 2-5pm). You know the ones--the ones that she sells out of as fast as she sews them! The ones that my girls love to wear because they are so comfortable! The ones that wash and wear and get oh so many complements every time your beautiful daughter wears one! Yes, those hoodie dresses! </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPaQNrYyGtUYsP-8C92jCCde_7NGqNi6yWoqX2ikjOohVoSZZTPR2gnqtCgCmQcbIKSHH0kWyr_XUYP2CJ6aMepK0D22tpeXXHJJkrAicekpOx-f_qR2GdDcOw6KSV-1Ki98-5Z1n9ndc/s1600/twin+coordinating+mihalas+hoodies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPaQNrYyGtUYsP-8C92jCCde_7NGqNi6yWoqX2ikjOohVoSZZTPR2gnqtCgCmQcbIKSHH0kWyr_XUYP2CJ6aMepK0D22tpeXXHJJkrAicekpOx-f_qR2GdDcOw6KSV-1Ki98-5Z1n9ndc/s320/twin+coordinating+mihalas+hoodies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDMnGUbMbRbg2mTl2lQmw6LrJG8D_TlNEpdXfmrpsnaMUYhadMRz0duZOc_bDIvf_NJHiSAHPZe5pTxnXQNcl8qP4f8-fJ-5o3ZKPA5eOfR2uMEBKTPsorVU7lH76VdllAiByG-LRN1Ks/s1600/399413_3959155013698_1955454359_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDMnGUbMbRbg2mTl2lQmw6LrJG8D_TlNEpdXfmrpsnaMUYhadMRz0duZOc_bDIvf_NJHiSAHPZe5pTxnXQNcl8qP4f8-fJ-5o3ZKPA5eOfR2uMEBKTPsorVU7lH76VdllAiByG-LRN1Ks/s320/399413_3959155013698_1955454359_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">There will also be some N² items (creative collaborations made by Nicole and I together) available a this open house. We have some fun items ready to go and are going to do our best to get a few more fun items whipped up before Sunday! Our girls have made a few fun things to sell as well. See you soon!</span></span></span> <br />
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<br />Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-42530365281150808052012-09-16T11:52:00.005-07:002012-09-16T11:52:58.528-07:00Cdel is in the house!<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cdel-Design/146501895394635?ref=ts" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cdel Design</span></span></span></a> <span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">will once again be selling stickybands at N's Whims' open house this coming Sunday (23rd) from 2-5pm. If you have yet to try these, you NEED to change that! They truly are the only hair band I have worn that does not move. They stay put through sweat, wind and even a day at the pool--and, they are washer and dryer safe (I know because they have accidently gone through both cycles many times)! On top of it all, they are cute! </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVe1nVAQk5b2DQvhjRy4uc_dUqrQHLf23shgWhzD_B-UYfxXnry8c4BgPnsjDZvQ7-3nWejO1PDyKfuDxz0mzuzFKSh20ON9jZ2mggWA4QV74lwllzVfzwHzdG0vEthepXCMQU8kshHQ/s1600/December+1+10+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVe1nVAQk5b2DQvhjRy4uc_dUqrQHLf23shgWhzD_B-UYfxXnry8c4BgPnsjDZvQ7-3nWejO1PDyKfuDxz0mzuzFKSh20ON9jZ2mggWA4QV74lwllzVfzwHzdG0vEthepXCMQU8kshHQ/s320/December+1+10+007.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you have tried them, I am sure you are ready to pick up a few new ones--I have a drawer full and still manage to find an outfit that demands a new band :).</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Come on over and check out the new patterns Lori will be selling! They fit most kids and adults--wouldn't a new Halloween or Badger stickyband be so fun for your darling daughter?! </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXqBfCLPSx78x45A9N0LzZ3wCsU6yiPHF4zQUScBefXAPUdthzHnFKnJZucbg-lZV8qyfjFW5SIz2t75HLbkukkeO5vGBpQyKDqJ440VIKHQ9Mz_MrhKWlRJOYhN3Yf_52FMTxk8ZKtW8/s1600/316726_256314954413328_1868868830_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXqBfCLPSx78x45A9N0LzZ3wCsU6yiPHF4zQUScBefXAPUdthzHnFKnJZucbg-lZV8qyfjFW5SIz2t75HLbkukkeO5vGBpQyKDqJ440VIKHQ9Mz_MrhKWlRJOYhN3Yf_52FMTxk8ZKtW8/s1600/316726_256314954413328_1868868830_n.jpg" /></a></div>
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Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-8145127484646833172012-09-15T13:48:00.002-07:002012-09-15T14:24:08.119-07:00Introducing a new spin for N's Whims' Open Houses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg54wckd5LKlG-34sWyiOZhomy4n831Jam_rW7pJQvnOMkxZ-YQYARYgi0Sd6XDHX2GCoydi8YS-SU36jh4cpZWIGPZ78kIb8Nke05OFJzXft7sFRox4yIZB67Epo0MSSnsvKfNe5wecUA/s1600/category_necklaces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="65" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg54wckd5LKlG-34sWyiOZhomy4n831Jam_rW7pJQvnOMkxZ-YQYARYgi0Sd6XDHX2GCoydi8YS-SU36jh4cpZWIGPZ78kIb8Nke05OFJzXft7sFRox4yIZB67Epo0MSSnsvKfNe5wecUA/s400/category_necklaces.jpg" width="400" /> </a> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;">I am very excited to share with you a new concept I am adding to my open houses. As you know, last year I started a program called Craft to Give Back, in which I use 10% of N's Whims' profits to purchase crafting supplies for special projects. Then, I set a date and invite anyone willing to donate their time. We all work together to make beautiful things, which are then donated to organizations in our community. We have been having so much fun doing this, it hardly feels like work!</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAc_qdzNXLduerMkQSZhKI3mQRLS7LFCwf1XzITMkSE7lbP1f14RLIhtWrWPE4UWBpNpCvDW_WffqD-4cewJcPBOzHeyIWJnJl2NqspFIRHRcEFRSaf-Or2pc6r3vWMK3aijS4LK14Yw/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAc_qdzNXLduerMkQSZhKI3mQRLS7LFCwf1XzITMkSE7lbP1f14RLIhtWrWPE4UWBpNpCvDW_WffqD-4cewJcPBOzHeyIWJnJl2NqspFIRHRcEFRSaf-Or2pc6r3vWMK3aijS4LK14Yw/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Working on the necklaces we donated to Waunakee Neighborhood Connection last Christmas. Children from our community got to shop for gifts for their families for free! Such a fun event.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;">This year, Craft to Give Back is changing a bit. We are going to be making items to sell and then donating the money earned to organizations that are near and dear to our hearts. I think we can make an even greater impact this way! We don't have anything finished to sell at this fall open house, but will have some by the one in November. So, stay tuned on that one.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;">In the meantime, I also want to use the open houses as another opportunity to give back. I will be pairing each open house with an organization that I really admire. N's Whims and many of the other vendors will be donating 10% of proceeds from the open house to the organization! So, in effect, you get to buy beautiful things AND in doing so, give back to others. Win all around! </span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmsPvndwUZUWIW7yu-c-IHdHA1CrhhiPN8nApPXMY5p6vAOcHMYU1OHqluajoazX3X-cC2XQsKiJXtTlcqP9W1Y6sDhZzNPwplvPlQnTsk35fwVP59eqpXBjdT7iTIBRxGC9MuewviPo/s1600/Band+model+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmsPvndwUZUWIW7yu-c-IHdHA1CrhhiPN8nApPXMY5p6vAOcHMYU1OHqluajoazX3X-cC2XQsKiJXtTlcqP9W1Y6sDhZzNPwplvPlQnTsk35fwVP59eqpXBjdT7iTIBRxGC9MuewviPo/s320/Band+model+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;">So, without further ado, the first organization pairing with the open house will be <a href="http://beadforlife.org/" target="_blank">Bead for Life</a>. They sell paper beads that are made by Ugandan woman, and I use them quite often in my jewelry designs.<span style="color: #a64d79;"> <span style="color: #c27ba0;"> </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Z4WaRjFdpgmXRCJcV8UM7B8L2Gf3OplzgYd6S64Bg3Zv8BHTTpaFyBfQL9Tx5qGcMFusQIfgEJOyrSZIAc1idLtu-I_USTmPukac6xrUzPgCG74MIqG4y0M90OJl1jvZNiwMycS_u4Q/s1600/DSC_2491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Z4WaRjFdpgmXRCJcV8UM7B8L2Gf3OplzgYd6S64Bg3Zv8BHTTpaFyBfQL9Tx5qGcMFusQIfgEJOyrSZIAc1idLtu-I_USTmPukac6xrUzPgCG74MIqG4y0M90OJl1jvZNiwMycS_u4Q/s400/DSC_2491.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my vintage bottle cap bracelet designs with paper beads purchased from Bead for Life.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;">On their website, you'll find fascinating stories about inspiring members who work in Uganda. Their members are impoverished, hardworking and intelligent women with a strong desire to improve their lives. Their goal is for their members to be independent of Bead for life within 18 months by being able to support themselves within the Ugandan economy. </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #a64d79;">At the open house, there will be a table for Bead For Life--you can find out more about this amazing organization, buy some beautiful jewelry and find out more information on Craft to Give Back as well. Can't wait to see you next Sunday, 2-5pm! 1418 Blue Ridge Trail. </span></span></span></div>
Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-38203171611056722532012-09-14T03:50:00.001-07:002012-09-14T04:10:33.013-07:00N's Whims' Fall Open House<span style="color: #274e13;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"> Caroline Designs will be at the open house!</span></b></i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7iyCCicpiljWnkvpc-rTxxfhZv79ZxBdNeenBANK2MQ8_dvCd_euruUAKoxrYxGS3VzB9yzV-ry-jp_9vQoxoALUwOs9_xA2FqP9QIjpvK06vI1kKUccmSdyOt1KaxvQ9ZTbSu1ZlUF4/s1600/caroline+skirts+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7iyCCicpiljWnkvpc-rTxxfhZv79ZxBdNeenBANK2MQ8_dvCd_euruUAKoxrYxGS3VzB9yzV-ry-jp_9vQoxoALUwOs9_xA2FqP9QIjpvK06vI1kKUccmSdyOt1KaxvQ9ZTbSu1ZlUF4/s320/caroline+skirts+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>I am so super excited to bring another fun open house, full of unique hand-made items from super creative people who live right here in Wisconsin! The open house is sneaking up quickly, next Sunday afternoon (Sept. 23rd) from 2-5 pm. </b></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTUf7p0OA37Y1lXivmQDIfHFj61hKbQ76B7pBEMSfeAqAo0kTQ65UvAXOOm2wUBCcBDVpc1b7vFaxP4uPeUcskcWTBH0Fe_AmYzao9l42pmPNTgJctwnRr_xXM2It2Nhzm6rO2tRK3PaY/s1600/purses+and+new+skirts+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTUf7p0OA37Y1lXivmQDIfHFj61hKbQ76B7pBEMSfeAqAo0kTQ65UvAXOOm2wUBCcBDVpc1b7vFaxP4uPeUcskcWTBH0Fe_AmYzao9l42pmPNTgJctwnRr_xXM2It2Nhzm6rO2tRK3PaY/s200/purses+and+new+skirts+017.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>The first vendor I am highlighting is Caroline Designs, made by Nancy Palmer. You'll remember her from the last few open houses. She makes the really cute little girl skirts my daughters absolutely LOVE! </b></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7C_YKirRhlkOv6RAzayoWrRp6Ml8iilCgVh6NprlL4w6q8LX1xOqcGtQ8_-VaxlPAHM2X71HuN3IKhC5R12N7lPyykgjI9BmPf72KFmhBh7c9tgvajYKlcRvmkDdKVjm1s8Z3jFVw-Vc/s1600/purses+and+new+skirts+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7C_YKirRhlkOv6RAzayoWrRp6Ml8iilCgVh6NprlL4w6q8LX1xOqcGtQ8_-VaxlPAHM2X71HuN3IKhC5R12N7lPyykgjI9BmPf72KFmhBh7c9tgvajYKlcRvmkDdKVjm1s8Z3jFVw-Vc/s200/purses+and+new+skirts+015.JPG" width="136" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Caroline Designs will also have some of her bohemian inspired purses available. These purses have such fun details, including the straps made out of men's ties and really cool hand-made art buttons.</b></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxFccSAU0kvRJfSYd_yKtURgggYYEMwkcKUKSEJ9E754nkCDeOcTgbBKMcg76n5NQ9pYFinXKX8nNPAQvoytrdgU9tfXqbQnFeUvO41ZuWT6RIjFzeLXLo6o-nblbKv6rfVXoL6PzGyAg/s1600/snack+bags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxFccSAU0kvRJfSYd_yKtURgggYYEMwkcKUKSEJ9E754nkCDeOcTgbBKMcg76n5NQ9pYFinXKX8nNPAQvoytrdgU9tfXqbQnFeUvO41ZuWT6RIjFzeLXLo6o-nblbKv6rfVXoL6PzGyAg/s320/snack+bags.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Caroline Designs will be bringing a few new products to the open house as well! She is introducing her new snack bags. These bags are vinyl lined, so they are super easy to rinse out and re-use. No need to continually buy ziploc bags for lunches or snacks any more!! She makes them in two sizes--one to fit sandwiches and the other for snacks. Good for the environment, good for your budget AND adorable--what's not to love?! </b></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>I am hearing that she may also be bringing a few women's skirts and hair accessories. There is also a rumor there might even be some gnome houses...! I am intrigued! </b></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Can't wait to see you there!</b></span></span></span><br />
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<br />Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-8248036881267885052012-09-03T09:07:00.003-07:002012-09-03T09:07:37.965-07:00Another season of Craft to Give Back begins!<span style="color: #e69138;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With the close of the crazy summer months, I can't wait for Craft to Give Back to resume! </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">It
was nice to take a little break from Craft to Give Back for the
summer--to really be able to reflect on what we have accomplished and
where to go from here. But, I must say, I have missed it--the crafting
and the giggles, but most of all, hanging out with all of YOU! This
year, I
would like to take us from all little crafts to bigger and better! I
feel like it is really difficult to come up with items that are both
useful, cute and simple to donate to the WNC. While I would still like
to do this as we come up with projects that work with that model, I
would also like to change it up at times. I really loved some of the
group projects that we made for the pinterest baskets. Loved that we all
worked together to accomplish really cool things that would normally be
too labor intensive for one or two to accomplish on our own. So, Nicole
Mihalas and I have been doing some brainstorming. I am officially
making her a co-administrator (she messed up and said, "we could...."
one day :). We are thinking that we can make some crafts and actually
sell them at N's Whims open houses. Then, donate the money to
programs--I am really liking the <a href="http://abuseintervention.org/">DAIS</a> program. Everyone who has worked
closely with them has nothing but amazing things to say.
Plus, I really like the idea of craft to give back being a group of
women working to empower and support women. This is definitely a program
that is close to my heart. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">So, one of the ideas we have is collecting
furniture items that have good bones (made with solid wood) and
re-finishing them really funky or shabby chic and selling them. This is
something where we could use extra eyes and hands outside of the
crafting nights. If you hear of (or have) furniture items you are
no longer needing, donate to Craft to Give Back! Also, spreading the
word that we are happy to accept these items! I am thinking beds, night
stands, dressers, small tables, bookshelves, shelves, table legs/bed
legs, plant stands, chairs, etc. Also, if you happen upon something
cheap at a resale shop or garage sale ($15 or less), grab it and i will
re-imburse you! Another thing you can start to collect would be indoor
paint in cute colors (the left-overs from projects that
others no longer want), or spray paint, sand paper, etc, paint brushes,
etc. I think this will be really fun! Of course, any furniture items we can't
sell, we could donate to DAIS to give to women moving out of the shelter
and on their own!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">In
the meantime, I would love to meet in the month of September and make a
fun flower project. I think we could sell these possibly at the
September open house--or, save them for the November one. Sundance
catalog is selling these for $88 for 12 flowers. They are time-consuming
for one to make, but very little cost, so would be great profit even at a cheaper price! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPU9qoFcEDz1-AwZrXTMuKqubgYPtOcbnsGdaIpMkMLdmYQeNmtNyaJjcFo415H39Fc8WS8uNdQ6NJ40d0Dd65td62blIIEKcwbI-MM7HuRkRxKgUhu3ee1u1n6AJFKPu2O_Yajvc9SpY/s1600/DSC_2621-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPU9qoFcEDz1-AwZrXTMuKqubgYPtOcbnsGdaIpMkMLdmYQeNmtNyaJjcFo415H39Fc8WS8uNdQ6NJ40d0Dd65td62blIIEKcwbI-MM7HuRkRxKgUhu3ee1u1n6AJFKPu2O_Yajvc9SpY/s320/DSC_2621-001.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">So, let's get together
on Monday evening, the 10th of September, from 7:30pm-9:30 and make some happy
flowers! Let me know if you are planning to come. If you are,
please bring 5 empty and rinsed soda/beer cans (if you have some), and
some wine corks (if you have some extras). Hope to see everyone on the
10th! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Oh,
I should say that I still plan to use 10% of N's Whims profits to fund
these projects. As this progresses, I may need to look at making Craft
to Give Back an official organization (in the event that we make a lot
of money to donate :). If there is anyone who would like to volunteer
more than just at the craft to give back nights, please let me know! I
am looking at ways to incorporate craft to give back with the N's Whims'
open houses. The first one, in September, I will be
hosting a <a href="http://www.beadforlife.org/">Bead for Life</a> party<a href="http://www.beadforlife.org/" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1346687719_0"></span></a>,
and Lara Herman is planning to work that table. There will also be info
on Craft to Give Back nights and such so that we can spread the word. If anyone would like to help man that
table with Lara, let me know! It is going to be on Sunday the 23rd from
2-5pm.</span></div>
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Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-48698547903047422422012-08-13T18:00:00.000-07:002012-08-14T03:08:29.558-07:00Hot baths, Sunrises and Crayola Crayons<div style="color: #45818e; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<b>What do hot baths, sunrises and crayola crayons have in common? It all started when I decided to take 20 minutes and soak in the tub Sunday morning while everyone else was still sleeping. It was so nice and quiet, the sun was just rising and the scent of eucalyptus was easing me into the day.</b></div>
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<b>This picture is the view from my tub window Sunday morning! </b></div>
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<b>I began to think about just how long it had been since I last took a few moments like this?! How did I get so busy this summer?! Then, I started thinking about how I used to have to stick my head under the water while the tub was filling to quiet the house and my head when the twins were babies. This made me giggle! I was only able to sneak a tub in occasionally, usually when "Big Annie" (this moniker was only permissible because Ann is a wisp of a woman and Bella chose it) breezed in, swept the girls up in love and allowed me 4 hours of guilt-free freedom. Ann watched our girls a few days a week--although that doesn't even begin to do it justice! When I was tapped out from the constant demands that only twin infants and a toddler are proficient at delivering, Ann would arrive, full of energy, patience and unending stores of unconditional love! She would teach sign language, dole out consistent consequences and provide hours of giggles and hugs.She would also patiently repeat every answer as many times as it took--often adding more information each time, unlike my answers that got shorter with each time the question was repeated. I never felt guilty because I knew that with Ann they were getting more than I had left to give. Also, after witnessing her enjoying my girls, I always seemed to be more capable of being the mom I desired to be when she left. Ann was a Godsend--there is no other way to describe her! </b></div>
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<b>As I was thinking of how lucky we were to have her, I remembered the bottle cap I had set aside over 6 months ago. The cap was for Mason's Root Beer, and Ann's son is named Mason. I had never gotten around to making it, but partly because the colors were red and yellow and I wasn't sure how to make them more Ann. But, Sunday it hit me that nothing is more Ann than bright colors. When black, brown and grey were the only colors left in my box of crayolas, Ann would show up--a full box of bright cheery colors--not a one broken or dull. Cheesy, but true! With that funny thought, I knew exactly the type of beads to put on the rest of Ann's bracelet. </b></div>
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZR-BolqgeQUvGh_0NvgBhdnAW3IMlMgsj8HGJXHmHFAKWs2Vf4LGSPtkgKypf_6aEvion3y3gWr76In8MXrELeFpV_TnB3epkm0TeFzSN-CAGtilzSalllDnOPrvO5XAeGakimJidchw/s1600/DSC_2467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="101" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZR-BolqgeQUvGh_0NvgBhdnAW3IMlMgsj8HGJXHmHFAKWs2Vf4LGSPtkgKypf_6aEvion3y3gWr76In8MXrELeFpV_TnB3epkm0TeFzSN-CAGtilzSalllDnOPrvO5XAeGakimJidchw/s320/DSC_2467.JPG" width="320" /></a></b></div>
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<b style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #45818e;">I found the brightest, cheeriest paper beads from Beads for Life to add even more color. I also added a tag stamped with Paige (Ann's daughter's name--can't play favorites :). It is no wonder that Ann has amazingly kind and wonderful children! Thank you, Ann for being an inspiration to me when I didn't even have the energy to look for inspiration! Thank you for loving and pouring into our children, possibly even better than if they had been your own!</span></b><br />
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<b>And, there you have it--a bit of insight into how my crazy brain works! Be thankful you can walk away :). May each of you also find a few minutes to quiet your soul and get inspired today!</b></div>
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<br />Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773313218693786110.post-17185268759532448502012-04-16T10:59:00.004-07:002012-04-16T11:17:26.892-07:00Another fun craft to give back....<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:130%;" >Thanks to all the fun ladies that joined us last night for Craft to give back! First, Kara showed us how to make cute little garlands for decorating kids' rooms or birthday parties. Super easy to make--especially with 6 pairs of hands cutting the shapes! The one in the picture is orange, pink and white--we also made a couple that are Waunakee purple and white, and two others with bold colors. These are going in the young girl's pinterest basket, which will be up for raffle at the Arboretum PTO basket drawing and art show.<br /></span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9QtCC7tHd8O1U1H3h_MaDQ3HPCyasQAKpNx675XUvrVBdz5rsmjj4rNfdsxmQcy4Hx3o7YXDzpQ2UOT1GWbawplxK81_L-Wnn8ub6WQotwauzcklXmyyAx45Agv4oxAuL208yOL2RZC0/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9QtCC7tHd8O1U1H3h_MaDQ3HPCyasQAKpNx675XUvrVBdz5rsmjj4rNfdsxmQcy4Hx3o7YXDzpQ2UOT1GWbawplxK81_L-Wnn8ub6WQotwauzcklXmyyAx45Agv4oxAuL208yOL2RZC0/s400/006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5732060639560543218" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 102, 0);font-size:130%;" >Under the banner, are four little ball jar lanterns. Drop a citronella tea candle in there and serve your margaritas in ball jars this summer on the patio! So super cute. The insides were painted with transparent glass paint and then they were baked to make them waterproof. These will be going in the pinterest basket for ladies, which will also be in the raffle for the Arboretum Elementary basket drawing.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:130%;" >These baskets are going to be overflowing due to the generous giving of some very talented ladies in our town. So far, we have a gorgeous handmade bag, 2 scarves, an embellished winter hat, wine bags, ball jar lanterns and something fun from N's Whims (of course), and a few items I am waiting on in the women's basket. In the kids' basket, there is a fancy tutu, hair flowers with a cute little hanger, onesies and receiving blankets gift pack, onesies and blankets embellished with owls, an adorable hoodie dress and these felt garlands and a super cute bulletin board. So much fun in these baskets! If you make something you would like to add to either of these baskets, we would LOVE to have it!<br /><br />Next month, we will be taking a break from Craft to give back. Instead, I will host a craft to craft night :). Join us for a night to hang out and enjoy each other while getting something done that you just haven't found the time to do yet (be it a craft, folding your laundry or relaxation)! Stay tuned for the date in May and I hope you can join us for craft to craft night.<br /></span>Natashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270485604142372084noreply@blogger.com0