Healing Gemstones

Jelly Guessing Game

2011-05-23T14:54:00.002-04:00

I'm betting you won't guess what kind of jelly I made here. It's a brand new thing for me -- not making jelly, but making this kind. Here's a hint - it can only be made in the spring.

When you're ready to know the answer, go to my new blogsite.

Weaving with Mohair

2011-05-09T19:32:00.002-04:00

This past weekend I wove this purple & silver mohair scarf on my rigid heddle loom. I'm rather in love with it, even though it's May and the scarf probably can't be worn now till October.

You can learn more about this scarf, or why I wove a mohair scarf in May, at my new blogsite.

RIver Birch

2011-04-12T14:36:00.002-04:00

This tree isn't sick. In fact it's quite healthy. My Heritage River Birch has exfoliating bark - it peels in layers. This spring it's showing an exceptional number of layers. Perhaps it's due to the long, cold winter we had??

This photo is part of my entry in to the V7N photographic blog challenge. Go to my new blogsite to see my other entries.

It's Still Snowing

2011-03-31T06:24:00.004-04:00

This March is not meeting the old saying -- it came in like a lion and is leaving like a lion.

Still, it's really quite beautiful.

Want to know what I see as the upsides? Visit my new blogsite.

Second Wind Survey

2011-03-12T09:29:00.000-05:00

I like taking surveys. Online surveys and telephone surveys. Political surveys and consumer surveys. I have an opinion about lots of things, and am happy to give them to people.

I hope you feel the same way. And that you love a bargain.

I’ve created a really short survey to get to know my readers and customers a bit better. And I mean short - there are only 5 questions, and 1 of them is optional. It shouldn’t take more than 2-3 minutes to complete it. Created with SurveyMonkey, your response is completely anonymous and confidential.

To sweeten the deal, I’ve built in an incentive. Take the survey and get a coupon code for 10% off any in-stock merchandise you order from my website! When you finish the survey, you’ll get the code, and you can use it anytime till the end of August.

What are you waiting for? Go take the survey!

Fishy Scarf

2011-02-25T16:33:00.003-05:00

In my last post I showed a scarf that was a heart. This time it's a scarf that's a fish.

"Huh," you say? "Doesn't look like a fish to me," you say?

Go to my new blogsite to see why I think it's a fishy scarf.

Braided Beauties

2011-01-31T15:08:00.007-05:00

When is a heart not a heart? When it's a scarf, of course!

I've created a new style of scarf just in time for Valentine's Day. They're fun, they're fashionable, they're fanciful, they're furry!

Scarf #1 - I Y You

Red, pink, & black with hints of brighter colors. Black & white 'eyelashes' just for fun.

Scarf #2 - Am I Blue

Multiple shades of blue, with green accents. A modest amount of purple 'eyelashes' to bring a smile.

Scarf #3 - I Got The Blues

Predominantly light blue with some highlights of several other colors. Lots of purple 'eyelashes' to tickle your fancy.

Scarf #4 - It's Easy Being Green

Greens and blues, accented with both white & black. A good amount of cream & purple 'eyelashes' lighten the mood.

Scarf #5 - Green Is Good

Several shades of both green & blue, with touches of white, black, yellow, and more. A multitude of yarn types. Don't want anything fuzzy? This one's for you!

Scarf #6 - Earth Girl

Brown & tan with plenty of cream & a bit of black -- earthy colors. This one has both some creamy 'eyelashes' and cute, fuzzy pom-poms.

Scarf #7 - Brown Beauty

Tan, burnt sienna, cream, & black, this is a bit darker than Earth Girl above. The fuzzy pom-poms and sienna 'eyelashes' add fun & interest.

I only made the seven scarves you see here; once they're gone, they're gone. Don't miss out - order now! How? Send me an email (peg at secondwindjewelry dot com) or give me a call (585-973-7110) to place your order. These soft braids are $17 each, plus $6.50 shipping. They range from 72" - 86" long - plenty of length to wrap, drape, or style.

Want to see my woven scarves? Visit my website - I have lots of colors, fibers, styles, & sizes in stock.

Am I Blue

2011-01-15T20:22:00.002-05:00

My blue LED Christmas lights make me happy. Will I take them down or leave them up? What about my other decorations?

Learn the answers to these burning questions and more on my new blogsite.

Handwoven Bamboo Scarves

2011-01-10T18:34:00.002-05:00

I made new handwoven bamboo scarves for a custom order.

To learn more about the pattern, and what else I've been up to, visit my new blogsite.

Crocheted Baby Booties

2010-12-27T11:02:00.002-05:00

I made one of these on Christmas eve and the other Christmas morning. Can you guess what baby they're for?

Find out who's having a baby, and see what else I made for the little one at my new blogsite.

What's in those cups?

2010-12-10T07:23:00.002-05:00

I guess you can tell that wrapped around those mugs are mug cozies I knit. I made a baker's dozen to give as gifts at Pfeiffer Nature Center, the not-for-profit I work for.

Not satisfied with knitting the mug cozies and the inexpensive mugs I wrapped them around, I made yummies to stick inside them. You've probably figured out that they're dipped pretzels, but you'll have to visit my new blogsite to learn about the interesting flavors I used.

Handwoven Alpaca Scarves

2010-11-16T10:28:00.003-05:00

I just finished these handwoven alpaca scarves. I like the houndstooth pattern and the colors.

Learn how I dyed the yarn, what I wove on, and more about these alpaca scarves at my new blogsite.

Handwoven Rayon Chenille Scarves

2010-11-04T06:03:00.003-04:00

When are red & purple NOT just for old ladies?

When they're as beautiful & fashionable as these handwoven rayon chenille scarves!

Woven with hand painted yarn, these scarves add a touch of brightness to everyone who wears them.

Learn more about them at my new blogsite, or buy one from my website. They're great holiday gifts!

New Healing Gemstone Necklace

2010-10-21T10:10:00.003-04:00

This is my latest design for a healing gemstone necklace and coordinating earrings. Can you identify the gemstones I used?

Learn about this stone, and its healing properties, at my new blogsite.

Allegany Artisans Studio Tour

2010-10-16T09:45:00.002-04:00

Handwoven scarves and handcrafted gemstone jewelry has taken over not just my life, but my home. Here's a corner of my dining room, set up for the Allegany Artisans Studio Tour.

Stop by my new blogsite for more photos.

Better yet -- visit me on the tour this year!

Still Life with Yarn

2010-09-25T09:31:00.002-04:00

I enjoyed setting up this still life with tools of my trade. Visit my new blogsite to learn about these yarns, and why I set up this photo.

Painting with Nail Polish

2010-09-21T06:21:00.003-04:00

It's probably pretty easy to see that I painted with nail polish, but difficult to figure out what the heck this is a picture of.

They are the heddle bars of my 8 harness Macomber weaving loom.

I took this unusual step in an effort to make my life easier. Time will tell if it works.

Is your curiosity peaked? Learn more at my new blogsite.

Rigid Heddle Weaving

2010-09-04T06:47:00.003-04:00

I made these three handwoven bamboo scarves on my little rigid heddle loom while I was working the last show I did. People are always fascinated to watch me weave, even on this simple loom. I'm always happy to share the process with them.

Check out my new blogsite to learn more about these scarves.......and other things about life.

Scarf For Royalty

2010-08-20T19:27:00.002-04:00

I'm still loving making the handwoven cashmere scarves. My latest warp of three scarves was in royal purple, woven in a more complex and tighter pattern than I've used for this yarn before.

Get more detail and see the other two in this warp at my new blogsite. I hope you'll stop by.

Wildflower Wonder

2010-08-06T09:34:00.004-04:00

This beautiful nightshade is just one of the many wildflowers that make my daily walks so enjoyable.

See more of them, and share your thoughts, at my new blogsite.

Making Connections

2010-08-02T14:43:00.001-04:00

For decades I've been living with a dialup connection. Today I made the breakthrough to the 20th century (no, I'm not in the 21st yet), getting a satellite dish for my internet -- what we call high speed in the country.

Learn more about the challenges that have yet to be overcome at my new blogsite.

Louis XIV

2010-07-26T16:45:00.003-04:00

I've had to periodically get my leg iced and elevated, so I can't weave for long periods at a time. I'm getting some weaving done, and still making some Victorian Christmas ornaments. I think it's obvious why I've nicknamed this one Louis XIV.

Check out my new blogsite to see more. Or visit my website to see them all, and to make a purchase, if you'd like.

Lavender Cashmere Silk Scarves

2010-07-25T06:03:00.001-04:00

I managed to get these four scarves woven of a 50-50 cashmere silk blend before I had surgery. I do love this fiber, despite the fact that it's a bit of a bear to beam.

Check my new blogsite for more details on these scarves.

Hand Painted Yarn

2010-07-21T07:45:00.001-04:00

This is the latest hand painted yarn I purchased from Yarntopia Treasures. I managed to wind it all into balls while keeping my leg elevated. The collection is so beautiful, I had to share it with you.

Visit my new blogsite for more info on this and other posts.

Victorian Christmas Ornaments

2010-07-20T09:24:00.004-04:00

While I've been laid up, I've been making my hand-beaded Victorian Christmas ornaments. This is my last one, and the fanciest of the batch of 8 I made in the last week.

See all of them at my new blogsite.

Rigid Heddle Weaving

2010-07-18T09:29:00.003-04:00

Children helped me to handweave these two bamboo scarves on my little rigid heddle loom recently. Learn more about them at my new blogsite.

The Mummy Rests

2010-07-15T07:35:00.003-04:00

Brraaahahaha!

How do you spell that evil laugh that vampires, mummies, and other creatures from Friday Night Fright Night of old emitted?

I don't know that, but I do know that my leg looks rather like a mummy. Find out why at my new blog.

Asheville Beauty

2010-07-14T07:26:00.002-04:00

My wonderful kids took me for a mini vacation to Asheville, NC. We did see some beautiful sights and eat some great food, but the best part of the whole trip was spending 4 days with them.

See more of the sights and get more of the story at my new blogsite.

Lots 'O Weaving

2010-06-20T20:36:00.008-04:00

I've been weaving scarves and placemats, lately using bamboo, a cashmere-silk blend, and pearl cotton. You can see lots of pictures at my new blogsite. You can also catch up on my garden and my manual labor.

I hope you'll stop by!

Fuzzy Babies

2010-05-26T05:22:00.004-04:00

Aren't these little ones cute? Or are you one of those who find baby birds looks only those that a mother could love?

Either way, go to my new blogsite to learn more about these babies and why they're in a wreath.

Bad blogger, good weaver

2010-05-22T18:10:00.004-04:00

Time always manages to get away from me. This month I have a great excuse...in a three week period I have two shows, a major fund raiser for my office, and my daughter's wedding. Needless to say, I've been a tad busy.

But even though I wasn't blogging, I never stopped weaving.

Here are two Swedish lace scarves I did recently.

Check out my new blogsite to learn more.

Handwoven Bamboo Scarves

2010-04-23T13:26:00.013-04:00

Although I've been away from blogging, I've been busily weaving. Here are some of my new creations.

First, here's a set of three handwoven scarves in 100% bamboo. These three scarves share a common warp, set in random stripes of honey, acorn, ecru, and navy. One warp was solid honey advancing twill, one solid acorn woven in a tabby weave (my personal favorite from this batch), and one in solid acorn with an unusual point twill design. Learn more about that design at my new blogsite.

Here's another set of three bamboo handwovens. The warp for these three was a solid ecru, and as you can see, two of them have that same ecru weft, in two different weave patterns. The third has a navy warp to create an interesting weave pattern. See which one I like best at my new blogsite.

Now for a log cabin design, using a black 100% bamboo yarn alternating with a handpainted bamboo-cotton blend. I really love this scarf, and it's gotten me lots of positive comments from those who've seen it in person. Get more of the background at my new blogsite.

I'm going to save my complete favorite for the next post. Check back soon.

2010-04-09T11:47:00.000-04:00

Why am I now posting a picture of ice?

In addition to the fact that I think it's beautiful, it's in response to Carmi's weekly challenge.

See more of my work at my new blogsite, and join in Carmi's game.

You Still Have Dial Up?!

2010-04-04T14:39:00.003-04:00

I do still have a dial up internet connection. Crazy, in 2010, isn't it? For some years I truly didn't have any option. Then I did, but couldn't afford it. Now I'm back to fairly option-less.

Read the whole story at my new blogsite, and give me some suggestions on how to change my situation that don't involve moving from my beautiful country home.

Lots of New Handwoven Scarves

2010-03-11T16:37:00.005-05:00

Yikes! Somehow I've managed to get a lot of weaving done that didn't make it up here for you to see. Wintergreen bamboo, handpainted variegated moccasin and blue violet bamboo cotton, and variations on those themes. I've made flat scarves and infinity scarves, twill scarves and plain weave scarves, wide scarves and narrow scarves.

Check them all out on my new blogsite, unless you're ready to make a purchase at my website.

Bamboo Cotton Scarves

2010-02-27T13:41:00.004-05:00

I've made two more sets of handwoven scarves in Tammy's bamboo-cotton blend. Here is her New York colorway, the Olive Oil ones are in the post below.

I wound each warp for four scarves, and made three regular and one finished into an infinity scarf. I'm still hard at work to meet Jan's scarf-a-day challenge for the month of February. Visit my new blogsite for more details, and to see what I'm working on now.

Handwoven Infinity Scarves

2010-02-19T12:25:00.004-05:00

My daughter suggested that I make some infinity scarves, and I'm so glad she did! I enjoy making them, love the way the look and how easy they are to wear. There are also seemingly endless possibilities for length and width, resulting in endless possibilities for this must-have fashion accessory.

Visit my new blogsite or my website for more information.

My Latest Handwoven Scarves

2010-02-16T20:44:00.005-05:00

Even though I haven't posted lately, I've been weaving up a storm. I've joined Jan's Scarf A Day challenge for the month of February, and I'm right on track.

I've moved from the rayon chenille to some hand painted bamboo-cotton blends for a while, weaving scarves that are better suited to the warmer weather.

I've been using bright pinks that make me smile, and earthy greens.

I've also made some handwoven infinity scarves. Check my new blogsite to get all the details.

Handwoven Placemats

2010-02-05T21:36:00.004-05:00

These neutral color placemats came off the loom on Sunday. I spent hours doing tiny little hand hemming stitches on both ends of 8 placemats. I think it was worth the time, as it really finished these elegant placemats in style.

Read more about this weaving at my new blogsite.

Handwoven Rayon Chenille Shawl

2010-01-30T18:00:00.002-05:00

I recently finished making this beautiful handwoven shawl. I love the rich blues and purples in this shawl, made from hand painted rayon chenille.

To see something else that's purple and blue, visit my new blogsite.

Weaving with a Wool-Silk Blend

2010-01-23T18:42:00.003-05:00

I made these beautiful scarves from a handpainted wool-silk blend yarn. I purposely used a very loose set, making the scarves nice and light.

Even though I'm very sensitive to wool, I can wrap these scarves around my neck with no trouble at all. Check out my new blogsite for more information, or go to my website to buy one.

Handwoven Table Linens

2010-01-11T13:02:00.002-05:00

Thanks to help from my son, I got the Macomber loom set up and operating (albeit with a few issues to resolve) while he was home. I couldn't wait, and as soon as he headed home, I dressed the loom.

My first project on the new-to-me Mac was a set of 4 handwoven napkins and a table runner.

Read more about them and other interesting (?) stuff at my new blogsite.

Christmas Weaving Revealed

2009-12-29T13:29:00.004-05:00

All the handweaving I did for Christmas gifts can now be revealed, as it's all been opened by the intended recipients. My niece and nephew, son and daughter, each received a handwoven scarf or throw. I used bamboo, rayon chenille, and bulky organic cotton.

See them all and read the entire post at my new blogsite.

Christmas Toy Box

2009-12-25T19:46:00.004-05:00

A homemade toy box, a mobile home, and a sick toddler make for an interesting Christmas. Fortunately I was quick thinking and came up with a strategy to save the day.

It's an interesting story. Read it all.

Or see just how wrong my recollections of my childhood Christmas stockings were.

A Handwoven Christmas

2009-12-20T20:55:00.003-05:00

I've been weaving my little brains out making Christmas presents this year. WIthout much cash but with shelves of yarn, I decided it was the only reasonable alternative. I'm really happy with all the weaving, but can't share much of it with you - people will see it before they open their gifts.

This handwoven rayon chenille throw is going to some friends of mine who don't use the internet, so I figured it was safe to post this picture. You can read more about its creation at my new blogsite.

Although I have finishing touches to put on several of the woven pieces, my present-making is essentially done. Whew! Time to relax for a few minutes before bed.

Christmas Stockings

2009-12-16T06:42:00.008-05:00

Mom made our Christmas stockings. You'll just have to trust me when I tell you that the ones I tried to make years later for my own family were a feeble attempt to re-create Mom's. Hers were much nicer, at least in my recollection.

Read more about our Christmas stocking traditions at my new blogsite.

And congratulations to Margaret, who won the Victorian ornament.

Music Box Dancer

2009-12-12T21:15:00.006-05:00

I was little when I got the most amazing music box for Christmas. Although I've never seen another one anything like it, I did manage to find a picture of a very similar one, reassuring me that my memory is correct.

Read the entire story of this Christmas gift at my new blogsite. Tell me one of yours and you'll be entered to win the December contest!

Sweet Little Grace

2009-12-07T17:14:00.002-05:00

Sweet little Grace is the first child of some young friends of mine. In honor of her birth, Grace received a custom handwoven baby blanket in shades of pink, brown, and green, as requested by her mom.

Here's a picture of Grace going for a ride, comforted and warmed by her hand made cotton flannel blanket, which coordinates perfectly with her hat.

I'd love to make a custom baby blanket for your wee one, too. Choose your own colors, fabric, and type, give me a few months, and your blanket with be made to order.

Win a Free Victorian Christmas Ornament!

2009-12-03T16:52:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Joanne, who won the November contest. She received her talisman at my show last weekend. Now to the December contest. This month's contest will be shorter than usual so that you have a chance to receive your prize by Christmas. The prize?

little hand made Christmas ornament with its beaded cover.

Visit my new blogsite for the easy rules.

Get moving - the deadline's December 15!

November Contest, Part 2

2009-11-13T20:11:00.002-05:00

Last week I announced the November contest, asking for your comments about someone you're grateful is in your life.

This week in part 2 I'm asking for a holiday tradition. Could be one you love, one you hate, one that your family has celebrated forever, or one that you recently invented.

Get all the details and enter the contest - it's fun, it's easy, and you could win a free healing gemstone talisman!

November Contest - Win Free Jewelry!

2009-11-06T19:50:00.002-05:00

November is a time to think about all of our good fortune. Sure, everyone's life has misfortune, some more than others. But with the right approach, even the lowest of us can find something positive. That's the basis of my November contest.

Get all the details and enter the contest to win this free healing gemstone talisman.

October Contest Winner

2009-11-06T19:44:00.003-05:00

Congrats to Karen, winner of the October contest for this lovely bracelet made of porcupine quills, red jasper, and sterling silver.

Be sure to enter the November contest - you could win next time!

September Contest Winner

2009-10-15T14:49:00.002-04:00

Yippee! I've finally found 5 minutes to announce the winner of the September contest for free earrings!

Congratulations to Joyce. Be sure to stop by her blog to see some really great photos.

And if you haven't already -- leave me a comment on my new blogsite to enter the October contest for a free handmade bracelet!

Fiber Fest

2009-10-02T08:32:00.002-04:00

On Saturday I went to the Knox Farm Fiber Festival in East Aurora. The weather was initially pleasant, then go so windy that vendors' tents were in grave danger of making it to Kansas.

I think alpacas have really sweet faces, and they are reportedly very gentle animals.

Check out my new blogsite to read more about the Fiber Festival and other things posts related to weaving, jewelry, bees, and more!

Garnets - a Gemstone of Passion

2009-09-16T06:37:00.004-04:00

I just completed two garnet necklaces as custom orders for a wedding. I'm pleased with the results of both, which coordinate, but are different. You can see them side by side at my new blogsite, and get lots more information about the healing properties of garnets. Here are a few tidbits to whet your appetite.

Garnets inspire romantic love and sensuality. They help turn negative thinking into a positive approach to life, and have been used through the centuries for protection against injury.

September Contest

2009-09-04T18:19:00.002-04:00

The September contest continues the celestial theme I began in August. The free handmade earrings I'm offering are made with manmade hematite, and their little stars and wrapped orbs make me smile with pleasure - to make them, to wear them, and to see them in others' ears.

Visit my new blogsite to get the REALLY EASY rules for this month's contest, and enter to win!

Perseids Earrings - August Contest Winner

2009-08-25T17:46:00.004-04:00

Valerie from Lewis Run, PA, won the August contest, and will be receiving her Perseids earrings within a day or two via US mail.

Congratulations, Valerie!

I'll announce the September contest soon, so visit again.

Woven Wings

2009-08-16T12:31:00.003-04:00

I've just created my third set of Woven Wings, and I'm really happy with this one-of-a-kind necklace. I've made and sold two other sets in the past year or two, and wanted another show-stopper.

Learn more about this great piece, and about the properties of the healing gemstones it contains, at my new blogsite.

And enter the August contest for a free pair of earrings while you're there!

Bunny Goes to the Spa

2009-08-08T20:09:00.002-04:00

Bunny told me she wanted to help me with marketing my handwoven baby blankets, but before she got started, she insisted on a day of pampering. Check out her spa adventure, from chemical peels to comparing tats with her friends at my new blog.

August Contest - Free Earrings

2009-08-01T11:26:00.003-04:00

Win these handmade earrings to honor the annual Perseids meteor shower. Go to my new blogsite for complete directions and to enter.

New Woogie A Hit

2009-07-23T07:39:00.004-04:00

Yippee!! Gavin loves his new handwoven security blanket!

Mama Caitlin was able to be very clear about what she wanted, which made my weaving job easy. But it was still all up to Gavin. Would he accept the new "woogie" or find it a poor attempt?

Read the whole story at my new blogsite.

Rainbow Fluorite Healing Gems

2009-07-18T07:12:00.005-04:00

Although the term rainbow fluorite is commonly used, it doesn't, in fact, refer to a particular stone. Well, it does, but only sort of. Fluorite is a specific stone. It comes in green, yellow, purple, blue, and clear, each stone with their own healing properties. "Rainbow fluorite" refers to those colors being mixed in a single strand or a single stone.

Each color of fluorite has specific healing properties. I've outlined them in my new blogsite, and I hope you'll visit there. You can also learn about the custom wedding jewelry that I made for

Joan from rainbow fluorite (yeah, I used different colors) and amethyst.

A New Security Blanket for Gavin

2009-06-26T21:11:00.003-04:00

Gavin loves his security blanket. Unfortunately, the blanket is rapidly becoming very threadbare. His mom and grandma have made many attempts to keep it together, but they can't keep it going forever.

That's where I come in. Mom has ordered a custom-made handwoven security blanket. You can see Gavin's old blanket and watch my progress on making his new one at my new blogsite.

Leopardskin Jasper - a Healing Gemstone

2009-06-19T16:20:00.007-04:00

Before I get into the details about leopardskin jasper, here's a few tidbits about jaspers in general. Generally opaque, jaspers have patterns in them - usually somewhat irregular in nature....

...Leopardskin jasper has several healing properties. But you'll have to go to my new blogsite to read all about it.

My Knees Are Better!

2009-06-09T17:27:00.001-04:00

I've been carrying my healing talisman for my knees during all my waking hours for three weeks now, and all I can say is, “WOW!” My knees feel SO much better!

Read about my knees at my new blogsite. Don't worry, you WON'T see a picture of them!

June Contest - Free Gemstone Earrings

2009-06-03T19:43:00.000-04:00

I'm keeping my promise about another easy contest this month. Enter as many times as you wish for more chances to win this great pair of sterling silver & leopardskin jasper gemstone earrings.

Visit my new blogsite to see how simple the June contest is.

May Contest Winner

2009-05-28T18:06:00.002-04:00

Charlene from Olean, NY is the winner of the handmade sterling silver earrings. When learning that she won...visit my new blogsite to hear what Charlene had to say.

And stay tuned for the June contest - it'll be easy, too!

Easing the Knees

2009-05-22T16:29:00.003-04:00

This is the talisman I made myself for my aching knees. I've been carrying it for just a week now.

Learn all about it at my new blogsite....

Oh, My Aching Knees

2009-05-17T06:50:00.002-04:00

I have bad knees.

Although there may be other reasons, I find it more fun to blame the nuns at my high school.

Interested in knowing why I blame the nuns, and what I'm doing about it? Check out the full story at my new blogsite.

May Contest - Free Jewelry

2009-05-07T17:16:00.004-04:00

Last month I made the contest too hard, discouraging some folks. So this month it's MUCH easier! All you have do to win a pair of my handmade sterling silver earrings is...visit my new blogsite and follow the EASY rules!

And The Winner Is...

2009-05-01T09:59:00.002-04:00

...Jane, of Canastota, NY. Jane's entry in April's contest to win a free gemstone talisman earned the most points - 327! The moss agate talisman should arriver at her door within a few days.

I admit it, I learned a lot with this contest, mostly about what NOT to do again. I promise, the next contest, which will be announced soon, will be MUCH easier, and the deadline for submission MUCH closer to the contest announcement.

So watch my blog for the next contest. YOU could win next time!

Free Gemstone Talisman Contest

2009-04-25T06:56:00.003-04:00

Time's running out....only 5 days left!

Don't miss out - send in your entry to win the free moss agate gemstone talisman!

Healing Jewelry

2009-04-20T12:25:00.010-04:00

I believe that our thoughts and words make almost as much of a difference as our actions.

In an attempt to encourage positive thinking and intentions toward others, I made a little pin. Wear it and you'll be expressing well wishes everywhere you go.

Read the full post at my new blogsite.

Namaste!

Easter Bunnies

2009-04-12T10:19:00.006-04:00

Ok, clearly lots of chick cake pops weren't enough for my amazing daughter. What with today being Easter and all, she HAD to make bunny cake pops to bring to dinner. I think they're adorable!

I would be hard pressed to say if I like the chicks or the bunnies better - I've always hated having to choose my favorite. Although the bunnies look like more work to me.

This culinary feat is even more amazing when you know that she made 140 bunnies ears out of fondant TWICE for these treats, as the first batch, drying in the oven, got destroyed when she forgot they were in there and set the oven to pre-heat for the cake part! I KNOW I would have scratched the whole business at that point, but not Amanda.

Read about her Tibetan Terrier puppy's latest adventures in the Daily Baxter.

Moss Agate - A Springtime Gemstone

2009-04-10T16:48:00.005-04:00

Being an avid gardener, early spring is absolutely, without question my favorite season.

For centuries, springtime has been associated with fertility. I think that’s how the whole bunny thing came about – ya know, multiplying like rabbits.

Moss agate is a great healing gemstone for spring.

Read the full post at my new blogsite.

If you win my contest and get the free moss agate talisman for your own, you can carry it in your pocket, turn it into a pendant and wear it around your neck, hang it from your bedpost, or keep it close to you in another way that works for you.

Get your contest entries in!

Free Healing Gemstone Talisman Contest

2009-04-01T09:43:00.009-04:00

As promised, this month I'm holding a contest. If you win, you'll get a free healing gemstone talisman - totally free.

Read all the rules and enter the contest at my new blogsite.

GOOD LUCK!

Spring Chicks!

2009-03-31T16:00:00.006-04:00

I know I've said that this blog is all about healing gemstones, but I can't control myself right now, so bear with me.

Yesterday I spent some hours in my car, driving home from visiting friends in WV. We thoroughly enjoyed the lovely spring weather "down in the holler" listening to hundreds of spring peepers, enjoying the ephemeral spring beauties in her woods, sneaking in some peeks of the riotous courtship dances of the cardinals, and so forth. So I was quite surprised as I headed north to find that for four hours of my trip the ground was completely white with snow! I'm glad there was little to nothing on the ground at my house.

Among the many tasks facing me from spending a few days away was catching up on a mound of email. One from my daughter just made me smile, and I'm sure it will turn up the corners of your mouth, too.

Working more than full time at a high-stress job and caring for a home and a puppy (who has a great blog of his own that she maintains), my firstborn is somewhat of a food artiste. She sent me pix of her latest creations that are her own celebration of spring.

Are they the cutest things you ever saw, or what?! Way too cute to eat these chick cake pops!

Besides, smiling is healing, and springtime should make you smile, so in a way, I'm sticking with the healing concept anyway

Enjoy the springtime, whatever the weather where you are!

Win a Free Healing Gemstone Talisman!

2009-03-23T20:00:00.012-04:00

Watch this site!

In early April I'll be announcing the details for a simple contest.

Enter to win a
free healing gemstone talisman!

Got a spring cold? Get healing gemstones!

2009-03-21T21:47:00.010-04:00

It seems like lots of people get spring colds. (Thanks to Margaret Shulock of Six Chix for use of her wonderful cartoon.)

Can gemstones help you get over your cold?

Read the full post at my new blogsite, or contact me and I’ll be happy to work with you and create a talisman just for you. Unfortunately, this isn’t a quick process, and your current cold may be over by the time we’re done, but then you’ll have it for the next time those germs try to move in!

Gems for the Economy

2009-03-08T20:54:00.013-04:00

It’s not as if you need the talking heads to tell you that we’re in economic trouble, you live with it every day.

Can gemstones help you through difficult financial times? If you choose wisely, the answer is yes.

Read the entire post at my new blogsite, or contact me for personal consultation and the creation of a gemstone talisman designed just for you.

Beautiful Blue Amazonite

2009-02-23T15:10:00.011-05:00

Amazonite was named for the Amazon River, or maybe for the mythological Amazon women warriors.

An earth stone, amazonite has many healing properties.

Read the entire post at my blogsite.

Protecting My Customers

2009-02-16T10:20:00.003-05:00

In addition to providing protection through healing gemstones, I take care of my customers in other ways. I already comply with the Federal Consumer Protection Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA).

Read the full post at my new blogsite.

It's Everywhere!

2008-09-29T22:21:00.004-04:00

My amethyst blog entry generated an interesting question, asking more about quartz.

There are two types of quartz - those with large crystals, including gemstones like amethyst, citrine, aventurine, tiger eye, smoky quartz, and rose quartz. And those is small crystals, commonly called chalcedony.

Read the entire post at my new blogsite.

Amethyst - Purple Beauty

2008-09-08T19:02:00.009-04:00

I love amethyst. The color of royalty and nobility, purple just makes me feel good, particularly when I’m wearing it.

February’s birthstone, amethyst is not only beautiful, it’s a powerful healing gemstone.

Read the full post at my new blogsite. You can buy amethyst jewelry, a talisman, or a purple scarf from my website.

Choosing Your Talisman

2008-08-22T18:21:00.009-04:00

So you’ve decided you’d like a healing gemstone talisman. How do you select one that’s right for you? As with most things in life, you have an array of choices.

If you don’t have any particular problem, just go shopping and see what attracts your eye and feels good in your hand.

If you do have a specific problem you're trying to resolve, say arthritis, you'll need research.

Read the entire post at my new blogsite, or contact me for more information.

Talisman Tales

2008-07-30T19:19:00.017-04:00

After that first talisman for little Ben, I was inspired to make talismans for family and friends who were having particular problems. Let me share just a few of them with you here.

I made an easy-to-wear stretchy bracelet of amethyst, garnet, and rose quartz for an anxious new mother and her colicky baby.

A woman I know does amazing healing work with animals, using homeopathy, reiki, Chinese medicine, and more. While she's extremely skilled and certainly doesn't need my help, I figured I'd just add to her healing tools, and made a simple wrap bracelet of amethyst, sodalite, and green aventurine. Here's why I chose those three.

Read the entire post at my new blogsite. Learn about how you can choose a talisman.

My First Talisman

2008-07-07T22:05:00.013-04:00

I’d been making jewelry for a few years when the opportunity for creating a healing talisman presented itself. One of my dearest friends, who happens to be a skilled herbalist, had a little grandson who was troubled by night terrors. Benjamin’s mom would sing, rock, and otherwise try to soothe him when he woke in the middle of the night terrified.

Read the entire post at my new blogsite...

I'm Baaaack!

2008-07-04T20:56:00.012-04:00

I know, I know, I haven’t been here in weeks. Ok, months. Trust me, I thought about my blog often. It’s made it to my to-do list on several occasions. But it’s never happened. Why? Life. It somehow always intervenes.

I have what I think are good reasons, but then I’m the queen of rationalization. I can rationalize anything. I usually know when I’m doing it, but I’ve gotten so good over the years that I can fool even myself.

In case you have any interest in what’s been occupying my time (and I’m not that saying you do, or that you should), I’ve spent a lot of time weaving. I learned to weave last year, and decided to get into it big time a few months ago. In keeping with my many other obsessive-compulsive behaviors, I couldn’t do it just a little. Weaving has taken up a room in my house, my conversations with friends & family, my money, and virtually all my spare time – and it’s not like I had a lot of the latter to start with.

Then, once I had some weaving done, I had to update my website to add my weaving. Well, of course, that meant taking pictures, re-designing web pages, and all that rot, so many more hours were sucked up into the virtual ozone.

It's not that I’m complaining, mind you…I fully realize that these are all choices I made, and that I could have made different ones. But, I admit it, I was really enjoying myself, both with the weaving and with the challenge of making my website better. I’ve learned to do TONS of things in the past 12 months, and although it's all been very challenging at times, my stubbornness keeps my plugging away. Eventually I figure stuff out, often with the kind help of others, and then I have that whole sense-of-accomplishment-of-difficult-tasks thing going on, and that keeps me going on, spending more time and learning more stuff. The way I figure it, all this creation of new brain paths can only be a benefit. Although sitting in front of my computer or my loom doesn’t do a thing for my thighs or abs, it does great things for my grey matter, and a good mind is hard to find. At least in my house, it is.

So now I’m finally able to get back to working with gemstones, and they’re calling out to me. I WILL get back to making regular entries in this blog, I promise! I'll also follow through on what I said I would -- my next entry, which will be within a week, WILL be about how I've used talismans to help my family & friends.

Oh, yeah, Happy 4th of July!

Can Gemstones Enhance Healing?

2008-03-30T14:40:00.009-04:00

Some people are immediately skeptical when approached with the idea of healing gemstones, thinking it some new age mumbo jumbo. In fact, the idea of using gemstones to help improve physical & emotional health is centuries old.

Read the entire post at my new blogsite.

A Pearl Of A Girl

2008-03-15T12:29:00.019-04:00

Pearls speak to me. As well they should. Why? My given name is Margaret, which means pearl. I was born in June, and June’s modern and ayurvedic birthstone is pearls.

Read the entire post at my new blogsite...