Easy Giving 101

My New Home

2011-07-04T00:37:00.001-07:00

Blogger will not allow me to publish my new blog address in this post, so please, read the important first comment under this post, where I will tell you where to catch me from now on...

I have had an extremely difficult time communicating with you all because I have been unable to share comments on your blogs. My new service will allow me to visit your blogs as usual and comment under my new sign in!
Often I have even been able to sign in and post here! I have been told I am not a member of my own blog. I have been unable to post comments as my blogger identity, name and url, or even anonymosuly!

So please check out my new home, I will be publishing there from now on, and I'd love you to bless my new home with a visit.

What have I posted there so far:
10 Strange Confessions about Myself
Living and Creating in The West
AND
Most Beautiful Monday (featuring a link to a blog where I have been interviewed, and my latest etsy treasury list on a magical theme).

I've Been a Busy Little Beader

2011-06-28T01:06:00.001-07:00

Wow, its been a bit longer break than I intended, not aided by being unable to upload pictures here recently, but onwards and upwards! I have really enjoyed busily creating new pieces of jewellery this week and having the requisite photo shoots prior to listing them in my online stores. Here's just a very small taste of what I've been up to....

the top image is Mulberry Butterfly Necklace, vintage Papua and New Guinea postage stamp, glazed and set under domed magnifying glass, in a copper setting. This just went into my etsy store yesterday.

The madeit store has been shown some love and attention too, with Persuasion Earrings above, and Sweet Disposition Earrings below both being placed up for sale.

I also just put these Serene Teal Rose Earrings in my madeit store, www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia

The etsy store link is, as always, www.starzyia.etsy.com

BUT, don't go away yet! If you would like to join my Birthday Club, you can leave a comment here on the blog, simply stating the month of your birthday. What do you get? Well a 15% discount not just on the day of your birthday, but during the entire month of your birthday! That way you don't miss out if you're too busy to shop on your special day. Simply code 'Birthday Club' at checkout and your discount will be applied before you pay!

New in the Starzyia Madeit Store

2011-05-27T03:04:00.000-07:00

Ruby Bliss Butterfly Bracelet

one of the bargains to be had at my madeit store where prices begin at $8!

www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia

Plum Bean Earrings

Coral Isle Bracelet

Trinity Rose Earrings

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Happy Weekend!

Bright Colours, the Mystery is Solved

2011-05-19T04:01:00.001-07:00

When I returned from Adelaide, the first thing I did (business wise) after re-opening my two stores was start ordering some new supplies. I found myself attracted to some very bold and bright colours, which was unusual for me, and so I went on my facebook business page and promised my fans 'more colour'. But I wasn't sure why I was working with bright yellow for the first time in my life.

The supplies started to trickle in and this week in particular I began to create and list my 'more colour' designs.

Then last night, I suddenly realized what was behind it all.... I was choosing colours that my late Aunty can see and enjoy, with her vision impairment the pale colours all blend in and she can't distinguish one from another. So I guess I am making things that might bring her seal of approval.

Although I did list this last pair of earrings today, more my original style, in my madeit store. They are called Midnight Sun, because the flower design is helianthus, the wild sunflower native to America.

So far the bright colour trend seems to be something my fans are welcoming, so thank you for supporting me. I will keep working the 'more colour' angle, as well as producing some of the classic, elegant and vintage inspired pieces from before.

www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia

Enchanting Etsy Finds

2011-05-16T19:18:00.001-07:00

Every day should be enchanting, wonderful, truly worth living, no matter what you have going on in your life, find the magic and you will endure with joy. Here are some of my favourite enchanting handmade items...

The top image shows the necklace Magic of Home by Australian etsy seller jewelflyt, I love the feeling of nostalgia for home depicted inside this witches' hat pendant.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/51554917/magic-of-home-fine-silver-pendant

I find these earrings by beautyspot bring me great serenity, but also awe for the simple beauty, and remind me of the wonderful symbolic meaning of deciduous trees which denote harmony in nature.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/62842891/tree-crown-earrings-free-worldwide

The robin's nest terrarium necklace by WoodlandBelle is made to order, and is part of the seller's star line up of beautiful terrarium necklaces.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/60912235/tiny-woodland-terrarium-robins-nest

Blackberry Patch necklace by MySelvedgedLife, one of my very favourite etsy sellers, and so hard to pick just the one creation from this shop.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/73493666/blackberry-patch

And from fellow Australian seller sageandmage I had to include the ritual potion, but you should check out her sacred jewelry and other offerings today (if you have not already, and hey if you have, why not do it again!)

http://www.etsy.com/listing/41026570/protection-ritual-oil-all-natural

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More of my favourites can be viewed on my profile page at etsy!

How Do You Like Your Vintage Postage?

2011-05-11T21:07:00.000-07:00

There are so many options when I am creating vintage postage stamp jewelry.... something for every taste.

Do you like your vintage 'dirty'? The necklace above is a postmarked 1973 stamp from Singapore and is stained, giving you the feeling the letter it carried went through some trials to reach its recipient.

The ladybird stamp here, is from the UK, and is heavily postmarked, so you clearly remember its origin as a postage stamp.

But I also have a large range of absolutely immaculate postage stamps for use in jewelry, these are free of markings so that you can concentrate on the beautiful image, this necklace features one of my grandmother's Polish postage stamps.

I am working on some images suitable for men's jewelry or cards for men, and some sets of stamps to sell in my store called Trains, Planes, and Automobiles... as well as some very historic sailing ships.

So how do you like it?

Most Beautiful Monday, sorry I'm late!

2011-05-10T02:53:00.000-07:00

I like to make these posts on Monday, but I've been busy taking photos for my very dear friend, Diane, who lives in America, it is our dream she will one day come to Australia and join me on my walk around the river and lake at the end of my street. I have even created an album dedicated to her on facebook, called Diane's Daily Dose of Australia. Not sure whether these will inspire her or torture her, maybe a little bit of both.

I love this stark white path through the dark, bare trees, it looks even more like a fairy tale setting when its a grey or misty day, the section ahead curves and is flanked by black, leafless trees so I'm hoping to get some enchanting pics when I am not looking into the sun.

If you want to come to Australia, why not make the trip, the more the merrier... Oprah did it, why can't you?

Newest Starzyia Video

2011-05-05T21:20:00.000-07:00

Just made this last night... new stock, and old favourites with new images. I hope you like it!

A Second Look at April... Memorable Moments

2011-04-30T20:38:00.000-07:00

The start of April saw me in Adelaide, where my mother and I were working on closing up my late Aunt's house. This was very difficult, of course, but I can now laugh at my astonishment when cleaning my Aunt's gas stove, grill, and oven. I began with wiping the grill, and removed the tray, only to find.... a pile of straw mulch, sand and pebbles inside the grill chamber! I was absolutely stupified, and in a daze kept repeating the questions 'how?' and 'why?' over and over in a small whimper. The act of cleaning the grill lead to me knocking the rubbish into the oven chamber, which then had to be cleaned, and then the rubbish spilled onto the floor... one job leading to another, as I wondered, how on earth aunty had gotten this garden waste in her grill? She used to get meals on wheels and never used the stove except one hot plate to boil the kettle, the rest of the time she used a toaster oven to reheat her meals. A mystery indeed, but definitely something to laugh about now that the job of cleaning is long over.

Of course we had booked our flight home to Perth for April 5th, and so it was soon time for us to say goodbye for the last time to the home where my grandmother and aunt had lived for 36 years. Very hard. I admit I had tears in my eyes leaving the house, and again as the plane taxied onto the runway, saying out loud "goodbye Adelaide, goodbye house, goodbye Aunty". I think I would have been a complete emotional goner at that point if it weren't for the small child who shouted 'faster, faster' during approach for take off, and then 'weee-heee' as we lifted into the air. Bless the little darling for making me laugh.

Not so happy about the last thirty minutes of the flight... rough turbulence on descent, and as the air stewardesses were walking past my seat and the plane lurched roughly from side to side, one said 'Oh my God!'. NOT what passengers want to hear coming from the staff!

By early evening we were home, and found that the leaves were changing as the first signs of autumn came over a city that had been ravaged by a long, hot summer. We arrived home to the news that two of Perth's water supply dams were empty and the third at 24% of its capacity! Please pray for rain for us.

A big thank you to Pack And Send who couriered our family treasures home from Adelaide, they were a complete delight, so friendly and helpful unlike the first two companies we rang. We spent a lovely afternoon unpacking the family china and tea sets, but admit the rest of the things are still in the front lounge...

I spent the day before ANZAC Day researching both my grandfather's military records on behalf of my parents. But wasn't happy when my mother served Bonox for lunch (if you don't know what bonox is, imagine meat coffee and you won't be that far off)... I sat under the back patio and ate Maltesers out of my purse.

Finally, I decided that for my lovely cat Roman's 18th Birthday today, I would hold a Mayday sale for both of my stores (etsy and madeit) you can save 20% until 11pm 2nd May (Perth time).

www.starzyia.etsy.com

www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia

Under My Umbrella, Images of Peace

2011-04-27T00:32:00.000-07:00

This is my newest altered art necklace, entitled Under My Umbrella. It features a classic UK Christmas postage stamp, a symbol of love and peace, with the two doves taking shelter beneath an umbrella of a map of the world. You might also note that there is a black dove and a white dove, in loving harmony.

As a long time peace advocate and activist, I have decided to open a new etsy Treasury to celebrate and promote images of peace, which I will call No Pipe Dream: Images of Peace. I will post a link here and on my faceboook fan page when I have compiled the first line up. I intend to keep this treasury as a perpetual gallery, so there is time for you to still take a photograph or create a piece of art suitable for display in the treasury.

May you create peace in your self, in your community, and in this cosmos, with love, Starry.

Men In Uniform, ANZAC Day Round Up

2011-04-25T00:02:00.000-07:00

At this time of remembering our service men and women, my mother came to me and asked me to help her to access her father's military records, which I was more than happy to do. First of all, let me introduce you to my grandfather, Edward Kenneth Boyd (above) who served in the Australian Imperial Force (the Army) in World War I. You can also see him with his mates in the picture below, he is the man in the centre of the picture.

Mum's request came in response to a television promotion for the site ancestry.com.au which was advertising free access to military records in the lead up to ANZAC Day. However, I have to warn you, the search engine in that site was pathetic and frustrating, although I had indicated that my grandfather was an Australian servicemen, the result came up with hundreds of American draft cards! I then swore a little bit and said to mum it would be better to try a google search. I typed in 'australian world war one records' and the first result was for the Australian National Archives, which gave me free access to my grandfather's military jacket (or file if you prefer).

What do you get in these records? You might wonder... well, you can see an online folder, of all the paperwork that has been scanned for the archives, and how interesting the contents are depends on some factors. I have now obtained the records for both of my grandfathers so I am in a position to compare and contrast.

First thing you will see is the registration to become a serviceman, and a letter of consent from the applicants parents if they were under a certain age at the time. We have such a letter for my maternal grandfather but not my paternal grandfather who was a young adult at the time he applied.

The paperwork will tell you any significant answers you seek in terms of your relation's occupation and address at the time of enlistment, any previous military or civilian service etc.

The medical report at time of enlistment is next, detailing the height, weight, chest measurement, eye colour, complexion, and hair colour, as well as any distinguishing marks etc.

You will have a full list of all promotions, reductions, casualties, and all movements including dates of embarkation and disembarkation, all places where they trained and served, and in my peternal grandfather's file a copy of a letter sent to my great grandmother at the time he was wounded by shrapnel.

In Edward Kenneth's file we saw two disciplinary notes, one for failing to salute a senior officer, and one for arriving late to stable parade... though it would be very interesting to know the circumstances surrounding these as there may be mitigating factors. He certainly had no severe punishment for either and was never demoted.

Here are two scanned copies of postcards sent home by my grandfather from Egypt during the war, these of course came from our personal keepsakes not the national archives.

But you can choose to download a copy of the military files to your computer or print them out, and I have done both.

Wishing you comfort on ANZAC Day and I hope you will also take the time to work towards peace in this world, through prayer, mediation, education, or activism, whatever floats your boat!

Most Beautiful Monday - Daisy Symbolism

2011-04-17T18:16:00.000-07:00

Its been a while since I have celebrated Most Beautiful Monday, but I was poking around in the garden looking for a way to exercise my camera, when I found pleasure in a simple daisy bush, also the subject of keen interest from this bee. I love the humble daisy, once called the Day's Eye as this flower turns a blind eye to the darkness of night and hence represents virtue and stoic resistence to corruption. A true token of innocence and virtue, this flower was once planted in remembrance of lost infants. My yellow daisy is the colour of hope and optimism, a great mood and energy booster, and in a small vase in the centre of your table may help boost the appetite of those recovering from illness. Bees are symbolic of selfless toil, and in Christianity they represent chastity as most bees lead a sexless life merely working diligently for the greater good.

Wishing you a happy day!

www.starzyia.etsy.com

Love From Beyond... a Haunting moment

2011-04-15T02:10:00.000-07:00

Love lives beyond,

the tomb, the earth, the flowers, and dew

I love the fond,

the faithful, young, and the true.

(John Clare)

As both a religious and spiritual person, with ample spiritual experiences, I did wonder what lay ahead of me when I traveled east upon the death of my aunt (see previous posts). From childhood I have experienced visits from my relatives who have 'passed on', however Aunty died suddenly, unexpectedly, and horribly.... how would she appear to me, and how was she coping with her journey? Also, if I had experiences with Aunty, would I tell all to my mother? These were the things that were weighing on my mind, aside from the usual things we all experience in these situations.

When I entered Auntie's house, I knew immediately that she was in Heaven, though not unobservant of our presence and activities in the house. I knew she was not in turmoil, but reaping the fruits of her faith. That helped me so much to focus on the tasks ahead.

But one night, sometime in the middle of the night, I was lying awake in bed. I was on my back, and a lock of my hair was lying on my forehead, dangling over my eye. I was very relaxed, and then the lock of hair was swept across my forehead to the side and my whole forehead was tingling. It was exactly as a parent sweeps the hair of their child as they lie sleeping, and I felt awash with complete love and acceptance by Aunty. It was such a beautiful and special moment, I lay awake afterwards just remembering every sensation, of the tingling, of the movement of the hair, of the emotional cocoon.... and I know that Aunty would have visited my mum the same night, but mum would have slept right through it as she isn't sensitive, still, I was able to tell my mum what happened and that she too would have been looked in on and visited with such love.

Now, more than ever, I will be creating special butterfly pieces, as the butterfly is symbolic of eternal life and love. And if you are familiar with my butterfly pieces, you have probably already heard my favourite quote:

Life is the childhood of our immortality

If you would like a special butterfly creation or other symbolic or altered art creation, don't forget to visit me at my etsy or madeit stores

www.starzyia.etsy.com

www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia

Love is Strength... My Inspirational Family

2011-04-11T21:59:00.000-07:00

Meet my mother's family:

Mum in the back, next to her father;

My Aunty Jean in the front left, next to my grandmother.

This would have been taken in the early 1950's. Having written the eulogy for my Aunt, I am still basking in the love and admiration I feel towards my family, and thought I'd like to expand on my last post which included a copy of the eulogy of my Aunt. When my Aunty was born in 1934, she had only one eye and was also hearing impaired. The doctors told my grandparents that Nanna must have had Rubella while pregnant without even knowing it. Aunty did not have a true eye socket on her right side so could not be given a glass eye, she had a skin graft over the 'eye' giving her a flat face on that side. When she grew up and for the rest of her life she would be issued eye glasses with a prosthetic eye attached to the right side. With her left eye, she could not see well. I can only imagine the concerns my grandparents must have had and the difficulties getting help for aunty when they lived in the country on a dairy farm. While my grandparents worked, they also had to ensure that their daughter was safe from harm. Perhaps some people might have been persuaded to give up a child like this to an institution, but this was a loving family determined to make the best of all that came their way. My mother was born in 1937, a younger sister for Aunty but someone who would grow up more in the role of elder sister, and who went to school ahead of Aunty, who was kept out of school by the local principal. Aunty would stay home watching her younger sister go off to school, making playmates, and mastering the reading, writing, and mathematics. Not that my grandmother was happy with this arrangement! She persistently confronted the school principal demanind education for her eldest daughter, yet he adamantly maintained a negative attitude. Nanna knew that Auntie's best chance in life was to be educated, and she also wanted her to be part of the community, not an outcast or a loner. She constantly put her pride on the line to fight it out for her daughter only to have to go home with disappointment simmering in her belly, and of course, she had to behave as a Christian lady even if she was dealing with a hard hearted and uncharitable man. I recently asked my mother if children picked on Aunty for her strange looks, mum told me they didn't say anything but they always stared. The blessing was that Aunty could not see them gaping after her everywhere that she went, though mum admitted she used to feel angry and wished she could 'punch them'.

(My Aunty Jean, Nanna, and Mum)

When Aunty Jean was 10, the school got a new principal, and my grandmother once again summoned up the courage to fight for her daughter, fortunately this new principal was very willing to arrange for Aunty to be taught at home via correspondence lessons (as Aunty could not see or hear well enough to attend a regular classroom). My Nanna would take time out of her busy daily life to supervise Auntie's lessons and Aunty completed her first four years of primary education in this way.

Alas the demands of the lessons soon exceeded what my Nanna could manage, as she was not a trained teacher and also had a lot of work piling up around her... a farm life is no walk in the park! Aunty had to drop out of her lessons but would seek education and betterment all the days of her life.

Unfortunately the sight in Auntie's one eye deteriorated quite badly due to cataracts, and at first the surgeons were very reluctant to do anything, knowing if they made any mistakes she could become completely blind. A scary prospect. Meanwhile at the age of 18 Aunty was finally fitted with a hearing aid, and this greatly improved her ability to communicate. She would later get her cataracts removed as the sight got to the point where it couldn't get any worse. Aunty could now see and hear the best she ever had, a new world was opening up for her.

To help Aunty in her quest for education and to communicate, she was taken in by her paternal grandmother and aunts, who willingly escorted her on a several leg commute every time she had a hospital appointment or classes in Braille at the Institute for the Blind. I am completely in awe of all the wonderful women in both my grandmother and grandfather's side of the family!

Although Aunty never finished highschool, or attended university, she did continue to learn and was an incredibly well spoken and intelligent person. She had a very large collection of dictionaries, reference books, Australian History and English Literature books and often contributed information to radio and newspaper debates and research questions, in fact she had many thank you letters from journalists and few would have realised just how little formal education she had.

Aunty was also someone who had incredible and beautiful Christian faith and would minister to her extended list of penpals from around the world, always gently encouraging them through their personal trials and tribulations.

After my grandfather passed away, my Nanna and Aunty were offered a home in Adelaide, where the Housing Trust promised my grandmother that her rent would never be raised during her lifetime, a promise they honoured from 1975 to the year 2000 when she passed away.

Once they were living in Adelaide the horizons expanded, Aunty could become more involved in the BlindWelfare Society, and Nanna also worked tirelessly for this charity, being awarded the title Life Governor for her work. Both Nanna and Aunty knitted all the time to provide items for the Blind Welfare stalls and raffles. Aunty also submitted many award winning doll outfits to the Royal Adelaide Show and on occasion, the Melbourne Show.

I have never met two people who have never given me the tiniest inkling of self pity such as these amazing women, they just got on with living, always humble, always willing to take happiness in the small things around them, and always demonstrating that love is strength.

Tribute to My Aunty Jean

2011-04-05T23:06:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I have just returned from Adelaide, a sad journey I made with my mother following the untimely death of my beloved Aunt, pictured with me, above. Although Aunty had just turned 77, she was expected to live a good fifteen to twenty years more as all the women in our family have aged well into their nineties, but sadly my dear Aunt was walking home from buying the Sunday paper when she was killed by a car reversing from a driveway. This is of course a most tragic and horrible end to an amazing life, but in spite of our sadness, horror, and shock, we are choosing to reflect as positively as possible on the life of this incredible lady. We have been greatly assisted in this matter by the wonderful Wayne Shepherd who delivered a beautiful service in the church aunty had attended for the last decades of her life. Wayne had also created the service for my precious grandmother who passed in the year 2000. I was not able to attend my grandmother's funeral, and I had never healed from that terrible sadness of being absent, I now feel that having met Wayne, and attended the church, that I can heal now, which is a great blessing. I would like very much, if you could take the time to read the eulogy I wrote for my Aunty, as she was such a unique and inspirational person, so, here is a copy....

Eulogy for Lillian Jean Boyd

Jean was born on January 8th 1934 at Victor Harbour. Her parents were Ken and Mary, and her younger sister Ruth was born in 1937. Jean's early childhood was spent at Goolwa on a dairy farm.

Jean has had a vision impairment since birth. Her sister Ruth started school at Goolwa and Mary was determined to have Jean educated but the school principal resisted. A new school principal was willing to assist when Jean was 10 years old. Jean's lessons came through the correspondence school in Adelaide and Mary supervised them at home.

When Jean was at a 4th grade level the work became too much for Mary who was not a trained teacher but had enabled Jean to read and write. At this point Jean dropped out of school but would resume learning later in her life. Unlike many children who dislike school and learning, Jean wanted to learn and Mary was determined for her to be educated and to have a place in the world.

During Jean and Ruth's childhood the family made a move to another farm on Hindmarsh Island. Here the girls were kept entertained by a wireless radio, card games, and imaginary games. They were also avid readers and books were popular and treasured gifts.

The family moved again to Norton Summit and at age 18 Jean was fitted with a hearing aid, and began to learn braille. To allow for this to happen, Jean stayed with her grandmother and aunts at Leabrook. The family were very generous and committed to commuting to all Jean's appointments and to the Institution For the Blind. This was really a wonderful act of devotion.

Once Jean mastered her braille course her education was further enabled.

Ours was a tight knit family and there were always many visits and travels together. Jean and Ruth were particularly close to their cousins, aunts and uncles. The family also lived through the Black Sunday bushfires which came in from Marble Hill.

The family then moved to Yundi. Jean continued reading braille and began a lifelong passion for penpal relationships with people from around the world.

Ruth bought a typewriter and remarkably Jean learned to type. She typed many of her letters to friends but as she could not read what she had written, she needed someone to tell her what she had last typed if she was interrupted.

Sadly in 1975 Jean's father became very ill and was treated at Daw's Road Repat until he died in April of that year. The Housing Trust offered Mary and Jean a home at Falcon Avenue where they both lived their lives out, making wonderful friends in the community.

Jean has enjoyed a very active social life with clubs and groups including the Blind Welfare Society, Blind Bowling, craft groups, her walking group, penpals, and of course her church.

Jean was a passionate cricket fan, always listened to games on the radio and also loved talkback radio.

Jean was also a mad keen photographer and one of the very special things about her collection of photographs is that we can see how she never took her sight for granted, she literally saw beauty all around.

Jean was an avid stamp collector and was incredibly knowledgeable about philately, an interest she passed on to her niece.

Jean was also very talented with her knitting, creating a great number of prize winning dolls dresses, scarves, rugs, and cushions at the Royal Adelaide and Melbourne Agricultural Shows.

Jean was also very charitable and a lady of great Christian faith.

It is very important that you know that we, as a family, believe that Jean has gone home to Glory, and is joyfully reunited with her parents, aunts, and uncles, and that God has blessed her greatly. We have also been beautifully blessed to have loved and been loved by her.

What's New at Starry Girl by Starzyia

2011-02-16T02:23:00.001-08:00

I've been busy making more altered art necklaces, the one featured above, Butterfly Symphony, will be added to my etsy store very soon. The Purple Delight necklace below, is currently in my etsy store and features a vintage Hungarian (Magyar Posta) stamp from my grandmother's collection.
www.starzyia.etsy.com

Soon to come to my etsy store... Tea Leaf Readings, yes! Email or convo me the image of your tea leaves and I will give you a divination of their symbolic meaning. The readings are great fun, and will cost $5

I am also considering offering tarot card readings through the store, or privately via paypal, I am very experienced, and my readings focus on inspiring and encouraging you on your journey, a guide to coping with what you are experiencing in life.

The earrings below are a recent addition to my madeit store www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia and were inspired by vintage Madonna, the Like A Prayer album where she wheres all the different coloured gemstone fashion jewelry at once.

I have also begun a new tweet segment, every morning via twitter, I choose a symbol for the day and a link to an item featuring it by another etsy seller. So far the daily symbols have been: pyramid, heart, apple, owl. If you'd like to see my daily symbol please follow me on twitter

www.twitter.com/sssStarzyia or use the button on the side of my blog.

Twice a week on my facebook fan page I will feature my own handmade Pick of the Day with a 24 hour discount code to save 15%, these picks will be posted on Tuesdays and Fridays in the afternoon. If you'd like to see my featured items, please join me on my business page using the link on the side of this blog.

So what's new in your world? I'd love to know

The Fine Art of Surviving Valentine's Day

2011-02-13T22:57:00.000-08:00

This is not my first Valentine's Day alone, so I have developed my own way of acknowledging the day, which involves a delicate balance of wallowing, laughing, and avoiding. All three elements of this plan are essential, but its best not to do too much of any one of them.

Ahead of time, I think its best to decide a treat for myself.... this year, a box of chocolates, as you can see above I have chosen 8th Sin, these have whole macadamia nuts in a soft, creamy blend of white, milk, and dark chocolate and are appealing in appearance. This is like my reward to myself for not turning into a bitter man hating cynic and at the same time help cheer me up if I get a bit sad about my life situation.

I also choose to read a book, or watch some movies, its a creative way to think about my life and get my feelings out. This year I have chosen to reread an all time favourite of mine, The Time Traveller's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger... because it is a love story, but its tragic, so I don't have to experience someone else's happy ending, and its also such a fantastic, original, story that I don't focus on myself too much (remember: delicate balance!).

I usually decide on these things ahead of time, this way I can avoid going to the shops and its not a day I usually feel like being with other people on... but I broke my unwritten rule today and went to the shops (I had to get the chocolate!). Unfortunately there was an... how should I put this.... unpleasant? moment which has clouded my day, though my family finds it hilarious.

Sitting on a mall bench (unfortunately it afforded me views of both the florist and the bakery, very bad choice of locations) a woman began to talk to me. By freak chance, my Dad comes along and leans all over my shopping trolley, so the woman says 'is this your husband?' MASSIVE FREAK OUT I'm insulted, horrified, also worrying how old do I look today? since Dad is nearly 80 years old. I said 'no this is my dad', and get this, she has the nerve to say 'are you sure he's not your husband'!!!! I'M QUITE CERTAIN, THANK YOU.

Dad thinks its hilarious because he can guess exactly what my reaction is, I'm sure he saw the look on my face which she seemed to miss. I am not ready to be married to someone with prolific amounts of nasal and ear hair, with a stooped back, leathery face, and badly disguised baldness.

I'm usually mistaken for being 10 years younger.... its my baby skin. I know, I know, old dudes score hot chicks all the time now.... but my father could never, ever, score another woman in the rest of his life, if mum goes, that's it for him!

So I'm freaking out! Its totally distracting me from my habit of laughing at relationships past. I'm checking my head for grey hairs, looking closely at my face, thinking what happened to my 'lovely' time tested method of spending V-Day?

I will never leave the house on VDay again!

The Side Effects of Suppressing Truth

2011-02-04T16:31:00.000-08:00

This Tuesday, I am going to meet my surgeon, which is bringing back memories of the last time I met a surgeon prior to surgery. What does this have to do with suprressing truth? Well, I happen to be a person with a penchant for brutal honesty, but as a person who is also reasonably sensitive, I am forced to walk around suprressing truths all day. In other words, I am holding in the things I'd love to say, my gut reactions, all the time. The effects of doing this, is that things build up inside until they burst out in a sudden wave, which is exactly what happened the last time I was preparing for surgery. It went something like this....

Pressure was building up inside thanks to me 'holding in' my true thoughts for a few weeks, things such as:

Those gargoyles look ridiculous with your modern Australian architecture

Have you thought of having that wart removed?

Is that hair colour intentional?

How can you stand to walk barefoot in the mall, don't your feet feel dirty and germy all the time?

I love dogs, I'm not sure however that your pet is one, have you had a DNA test, it might be a large rat.

No you don't smell bad, you're fresh as a daisy

So, you get the picture. After a few weeks of this, I usually end up blurting something out before I even know I've thought it. So when the last surgeon asked me if I had any questions about my surgery.... I asked "Have you ever killed anyone?" we both sat there in stunned silence, though I realised later he didn't exactly answer the question. He didn't say 'no, never, don't worry about that, I'm the best!'. Silence is not always golden, and this would have been a great time for white lie if necessary.

I'm pretty sure when my new surgeon asks me if I have any questions I'm going to begin to howl with laughter, since that is what happens every time I remember this last occasion. I'm then going to have to explain why I'm laughing...

What is Your Weather Personality?

2011-01-31T03:09:00.001-08:00

One day, late last year, I was sitting at my beading table, and looked out the window, I noticed a sunshower had just begun to fall ever so lightly. I was very happy, because I love rain, especially sunshowers which make me a bit giddy and girlish to be honest. Instead of running out into it, as I often do, I reached for my bead tins... I knew I had some gorgeous new fire polished jonquil beads, and that I also had the very beads to team with them to create a pair of earrings that I would call Sunshowers. As I created the cascade of golden beads, I worked carefully to make sure the earrings would truly portray the joy and natural wonder of a sunshower. Then I began to think about what a sun shower symbolically represents... next thing, I knew I had to create an entire range of weather inspired jewelry with a personality profile for each weather type. My new range of jewelry was born that very afternoon and has been launched in my etsy store today!

You can come and browse the new creations, explore your weather personality, and maybe pick up a piece of jewelry to make a statement about yourself. Are you a sunshower? a rainbow? winter rain? summer sunshine? Perhaps you are more like a perfect spring day, a summer storm, fog, or even snow? These can also make fun gifts for people you know who match the descriptions to a tee, and each piece of jewelry comes with the weather personality profile printed out.

Sun Shower earrings

Rainbow Earrings

Winter Rain

All the weather personality profiles are in my new store section, which you can browse and have some fun with http://www.etsy.com/shop/Starzyia?section_id=7756024

I'd love to know what your weather personality is when you're done, you can comment here or on my facebook fanpage to tell me, and why not have a guess at my weather personality, just for kicks!

My Newest Creations...

2011-01-19T23:18:00.000-08:00

Talkin' Turquoise earrings.
This is the first time I've created with my turquoise beads, these combine both colour therapy and crystal healing. I love that this stone is also known as the 'friendship' stone. This radiates platonic and unconditional love, is an ancient symbol of prosperity, and was revered for its protective qualities. In colour therapy this colour is very balancing for the self esteem, helps express matters of the heart, and also helps envelope you in that unconditional love.
In my etsy store now.

Violets Are Blue, Necklace.

I made one of these for myself two or three years ago and people have asked for similar, so here it is, first in best dressed! This has a medley of blue, violet, purple, and silver grey beads.
In my etsy store now.

Unamed as yet, I'm thinking possibly California Zen for the necklace title.

Gorgeous beaded metal filigree button and dazzling leaf on a plated silver snake chain.

Will be available soon.

Miss Delicate Elegant earrings.

I love the dark note to these swarovski baroque drops and the vintage feel of the copper flower pieces.

In my madeit store now www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia

Sayonara Gypsy earrings.

Gorgeous mini chandelier earrings with tiny little green beads that glow lovely in the light, and a cloisonne bead in the middle.

Will be available in my etsy store, very soon.

And how are your creative efforts going? making anything interesting? made anything using my vintage postage stamps or yarn? I'd love to share your interesting work, so tell me about it!

AusDisasterRelief Shop, Etsians Donate Quality Handmade items to fund Charity

2011-01-13T19:18:00.000-08:00

In response to the terrible flooding in Australia, a team of volunteers have launched the AusDisasterRelief shop on etsy. This is a place where the community of etsy sellers are donating quality handmade creations (and the costs to ship them to their buyers) so that funds go to the Queensland Premier's Disaster Relief Appeal.

Our nation is witnessing homes and families being swept away in an unbelievable, and epic disaster, and we need to reach out and help all who are hurting as a result.

On a postive note, this is a remarkable time to buy handmade, and it is a joyous feeling visiting the store and seeing the diversity of items donated for sale, watching as the number of sales steadily rises, and to feel that through our talents and dedications we are united against adversity.

How you can help the store...

You might be an etsy member (or perhaps madeit, artfire, folksy) with quality handmade items to donate, which you can do by contacting the store.

You might shop and buy from the store, in which case you will be making a charitable donation and receive handmade goods with no shipping fees.

And at no cost to yourself, you could share the link to the store on your blog, facebook, twitter, kaboodle, etc, and you can also promote individual items within the store in the same way using the built in share feature on site.

The earrings at the top of the blog post are my first donated item to the store, and are in store now http://www.etsy.com/listing/65892493/happy-trails-follow-a-butterfly-earrings

The direct shop link is http://www.etsy.com/shop/AusDisasterRelief

Building a Twig Wall....

2011-01-11T02:25:00.000-08:00

Another wonderful day in my creative life.... complete with dreams, obstacles, perseverence and ultimately - solutions.

My 'Rule Titania' earrings from my madeit shop were to be transfered into my etsy shop, where I feel they are more accessible to the public. I thought I should do a new photo shoot for them and instantly visualised them sitting inside a birds nest, this is the 'dream' part of my day.

The obstacles were that I did not have a birds nest, and when I very enthusiastically attempted to make one... I discovered that birds are ultimately better at building birds nests than humans even though we have opposable thumbs!

My 'solution' was to build a twig wall, on a bed of leaves and use that for my photo shoot.

These earrings are now available in my etsy store www.starzyia.etsy.com

Since I had twig city set up on my dining room table, I took photographs of some of my new colour therapy earrings, which are to be added to the store during this week.

While building the twig wall, I was thinking about the three little pigs, (the house made of twigs), especially when I had to knock it down and re-erect it. I am happy to say I did manage to completely make the wall of twigs without use of any wire, while attempting to make a nest I used kitchen twist ties to make rings of stick and vine but they wouldn't hold and my twigs kept snapping.

So as you can see I had fun 'playing' (working) today!

Open for Business in 2011!

2011-01-07T23:33:00.000-08:00

I'm open for business, 2011, yay! I have enjoyed my break, the hardest part was starting vacation, the first two days I was itching to go online and work, but after that I did get used to it so much I postponed my return a whole day. Now I am just as keen to do all that my creating and promoting requires and to plan my year.

What's New for Starry Girl by Starzyia in 2011?

Well I have just scrapped my existing store sections (earrings, jewelry, etc) in favour of sections like 'colour therapy', 'crystal healing', 'symbolic and traditional' etc this is a trial phase, so if you are familiar with my old sections and visit the store now, I'd love to know if you think this makes finding stock easier or more difficult.

The colour therapy section aims to provide a burst of colour energy and look gorgeous for you while being very thrifty.

The crystal healing section is where you will find natural gemstone creations that combine the healing properties with colour therapy too... super combinations for any purpose.

Don't forget that many of my creations will be drawn from multiple disciplines so it is worth looking in multiple sections.

I have just listed the three crystal healing necklaces pictured in this post, and will add through the year. Currently I have chrysocola, jade, new jade/serpentine, citrine quartz, rose quartz, apatite, and autumn jasper healing creations in my etsy store www.starzyia.etsy.com

My facebook birthday club is now up and running, members receive a 15% store discount for my etsy and madeit stores during the month of their birthday. If you haven't signed up but would like to, visit my facebook fan page (use the link on the right of page), click like (if you are not already a liker) and click on discussions.... under the birthday club discussion, post the month of your birthday, and you will be a full member!

I'm hoping all my friends and supporters have a great 2011, best of luck with all your adventures, creations, and goals, xxoxoxx Starry

Favourite Projects of 2010

2011-01-04T17:06:00.003-08:00

First, the big job that I've put off for years... the postage stamps. I have my own childhood album, and the albums I inherited from my grandmother, plus thousands of loose stamps sent to me by my aunty. I had to make index lists for all the albums, research the value of the stamps, and this last part, not quite done yet... approach a stamp trader with the stamps I'm not keeping. While doing this immense job, I managed to sort some lovely sets of stamps for my etsy shop so that the beautiful stamps can be used in other people's creative work. For years I have known I have to do this job, but it was so overwhelming, chaos can freak me out a little bit, and it was also difficult to find the space necessary to sort the loose stamps into separate nations, then find separate storage envelopes or acid free baggies for them to keep them separate... I used to sit on the couch and hyperventilate a little bit, until one day I could actually begin to do the work.

I have also begun to use some of the stamps myself to make jewelry and hopefully this year some paper crafts and digital art creations too.

Amber's 18th Birthday card... this is a scanned image sot the text is not as clear and easy to read as the actual card. I collected some of my favourite quotes for her as she embarks on her life in the great big world. The quotes used are as follows:

Life is a cup to be filled, not drained.

A heart that loves is always young.

Be grateful always.

Find beauty in all that surrounds you.

When you know yourself you will be free.

Help others, and deliver them to happiness.

Sing out loud every day.

You're never too old to jump for joy.

I started to make teapot earrings, a great way to satisfy my love for beading and for tea! I always include some of my collected tea quotes in the listings.

My etsy and madeit stores are reopening this week,

www.starzia.etsy.com

www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia

2011-01-04T17:06:00.001-08:00

Books: My Summer Reading, and Best Books 2010

2010-12-29T01:55:00.000-08:00

I started this year's summer reading with Stephen King's "Full Dark, No Stars"... I hadn't read any King for a long, long time, and this offering is made of four novellas (I love King's short stories and novellas the best!). These are a true set, they go together to span the whole expanse of human's doing what they do - plot revenge, harbour resentments, and keep dark secrets - but with a lightness... I would tell King there are stars, because in each story I laughed out loud more than once, and that gives relief as a reader, and breeds empathy towards the characters.

Reminds me of: King at his best! Read if you enjoy the short stories more than the horror novels.

NEXT STOP, since I was in the mall waiting a looonnnggg time for my family, I walked into the book store and picked up Stephen King's "The Stand", a large novel, an old man who came and sat next to me joked I would be alright for entertainment if I had to sit there all day. I said 'I better not be sitting here all day!'. The fall out of catastrophic epidemic (you might say 'plague', though it is in this case a variant of influenza that does the damage) and the resurection of society in the aftermath were compelling for me, and I got through this fairly quickly for its size.

Reminds me of: nothing I've ever read.

Next Stop: Justin Cronin "The Passage" I had picked this up prior to reading Full Dark... and it flowed on really well after reading The Stand, I like to flow from one book to another. Another catastrophic health crisis and again, the restructuring of human civilisation in the aftermath. The nature of the soul, the very essence of humanity is explored, and if you love the supernatural there is something here for you too.

Reminds me of: The Stand, also, The Forest of Hands and Teeth

Next I picked up Emma Donoghue "Room" the back jacket says "Jack is five, and excited about his birthday. He lives with his Ma in Room, which has a locked door and a skylight, and measures eleven feet by eleven feet....". Just from this, I was fascinated, I wondered if this was a prison where mothers have their children, or a Flowers in The Attic type situation, or is Ma a whack job like Bad Boy Bubby? I devoured this book, which is both joyful and sad and is told magically through the eyes of a child.

Reminds me of: Hide And Seek by Clare Sambrook

Currently Reading: Greg French "Menagerie of False Truths" gets better as I go along, fascinating portrait of the various manifestations of autism, but has some gross stuff about insects and trout fish and what they eat!

Reminds me of: Running With Scissors, Augusten Burroughs

My Favourite Books Read for the First time in 2010
1. Good To A Fault, Marina Endicott
2. Plain Truth, Jodi Picoult
3. Room, Emma Donoghue

The Best of Christmas' Past

2010-12-26T01:52:00.000-08:00

Here we are (minus Mum, who took the photograph), Christmas, 1981. This is the cubby house my dad built for my christmas gift. It had a foundation with paved verandah, locking door, and real glass windows, even carpet, and thanks to mum it even had drapes! After months of hard work, we had the grand opening on Christmas Day. Pictured are my brother Don and his wife Cathy, peeking out the window; my brother Ken and his wife Cheryl on the front verandah on the left; and myself and Dad on the verandah on the right.... also note the glass of Coke I'm holding.... in my childhood we only had soft drinks on SPECIAL occasions so that was also very exciting! I also have special memories of the building of the cubby house, and my job was general hand... on one weekend a sudden bolt of thunder made me jump.... scattering the tin of nails I was holding everywhere. After the weather cleared, Dad sent me out to pick up every last nail I could find... waste not want not!

Christmas 1983, here my Dad and I are with mum's sister Jean and my grandmother... I just realized though that again, Mum is not in the picture, there is one that dad took with her in it but I have it framed. This was my first Christmas with my Nanna, we drove the long way across the Nullabor desert to get to Adelaide in time for a real family celebration. I can tell you that trip was long, hot, and many a cup of ice cubes was consumed en route. Being with Nanna for Christmas was truly magical.... definitely one of the best times in my life.

Unfortunately this year on Christmas Day, my cat Roman (pictured here a few years younger than he is now), was quite distressed before lunch and given his age and the increasing problems he has we were forced to discuss his future. At 17 years old, Roman is losing his sight a little, is getting a little hard of hearing, and thin and very stiff in the back legs... all of this is to be expected, but we are continually trying to prevent bowel obstructions which are painful and distressing. He can no longer take a general anaesthetic and we can't watch him struggle with what is an essential daily function, we give him tablets with senna in them to help, but he is also losing control of the nerves needed to do a bowel movement so it will only get harder for him. I had been hoping not to have to make this choice, I had a romantic idea of him dying happily asleep in the back yard as he is wont to do, but when the holidays are over we will have to say goodbye. It is a pity that the vet clinic does not have a special room for this, where you can sit as a family on a couch with your pet on your lap as he goes to sleep but alas, I know it will be on the exam table in a bland room where we only recently just had him re vaccinated. My biggest worry is that I will be crying before we begin, I don't want Roman to think I am unhappy or stressed as he picks up on these things. I have a few days to spend as much time with him as possible and prepare myself. I remember a Christmas a few years ago when the vet saved him on christmas day, so we are lucky to have had an extension on his life from then. Actually we have saved him a few times over this 17 years together and I know I'm very lucky to have enjoyed a long life with him. So I will remain as positive as possible.

Announcing: the Starzyia Birthday Club

2010-12-21T01:32:00.000-08:00

I'm accepting new members now for the Starry Girl by Starzyia Facebook Birthday Club. Members receive a 15% discount in both my etsy and madeit shops during the month of their birthday.

To join, all you need to do is become a facebook fan of my business, and post a comment under the Birthday Club discussion telling me the month of your birthday. The code for claiming your discount is mentioned in the discussion, you can come back and refresh your memory any time.

You don't need to tell me your age, just your birth month will do!

Find my facebook page via the box on the right hand side of this blog, click the like button if you aren't already a fan, and then open the discussion tab, and post your comment telling me your birthday month.... as easy as that!

Hopefully I will be wishing many of you a happy birthday in 2011, when the club discounts begin in January!

Most Beautiful Monday

2010-12-20T01:21:00.001-08:00

The holidays really provide a sensory feast... there are the decorations, the gift wraps, cards, music, and the aromas of delicious foods. Everywhere I look in my home I can see something that just gives me that happy kick, 'oh yeah, its Christmas!'.

The house is quiet, and the roads are wet, I am soothed by the sounds of cars 'swishing' down the road, a totally different sound to the traffic on a dry day... the tyres, they just skim along the surface making this light, delicate sound 'ssshhhhh', I am quite entranced by it.

The scent of cinnamon fills the air from my lovely cup of steaming chai latte.

I think I might be in heaven.

I've Been Featured as Dusty Diva of the Week!

2010-12-16T15:29:00.000-08:00

I'm so very lucky to be sharing my creative journey with some amazing, wonderful people, one of these is Samara a generous and talented etsy member from the far south of my state, Western Australia. As well as working full time and putting her heart and soul into her own creations, Samara regularly features a fellow Australian creator in her blog segment Dusty Divas. Its my humble honour to be featured this week, and I would love for you to come and read about the evolution of my business Starry Girl by Starzyia, and fully explore the blog for all the other exciting posts and please, check out this beautiful, talented lady's creations....

http://maddabling.blogspot.com/2010/12/friday-friends-dusty-divas-starry-girl.html

Most Beautiful Monday

2010-12-13T02:10:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I've been a bit busy, I have let my Journal of the Senses slip... its a book I write in, in appreciation for anything I've noticed using my senses, I find its a great form of gratitude, and regularly writing in it has raised my awareness of the present moment as I live each day. I have still thought about these experiences, but I haven't actually written them down, or shared them as I sometimes used to in my blog. So I thought I'd try and do this each Monday and call it Most Beautiful Monday.

The most beautiful thing I heard today was a horse whinnying quite happily in a distant paddock, this gave me such a surge of joy, which I guess I should explain! We have lived in a semi rural area for such a long time, for years there was paddock after paddock with agisted horses coming and going. Sadly in recent years the big development companies have bought out the small holdings and constructed 'lifestyle' villages. Saint Ives took over the riverfront, and the smaller companies built along the entrance roads to what I must now call our 'suburb'. I heard one whinny in the morning, and one again in the afternoon and it was medicine for the soul.

The most beautiful thing I saw today was the moonflowers that opened overnight, this is the flower at the top of the post, but its a picture I took late last summer. Each flower only opens for one night, and we have them growing a long way along the back fence as the season progresses we can have too many to count all open at once, truly over 100 of them in one night!

I really hope I can stick to doing these posts regularly, practice makes perfect, right?

What I'm Buying this Christmas

2010-12-10T18:45:00.000-08:00

My personal favourites for gifts this year include any of the owl or matryoshka doll wheat heat packs handmade by Australian madeit seller choochiebubble! On my visit to the store today I can see the matryoshka dolls have sold out for now, but there are plenty of colourful owls, and a pig, left to choose from. I am sure in the future the popular dolls will also return! These are very reasonably priced at the $27 mark and with domestic (Australian only shipping) of $9.90 will come in under budget if you are shopping for gifts under $50.
www.madeit.com.au/choochiebubble

I pounced on these poetry tealight holders already (in transit to my door as we speak) but there are so many great gift ideas in store for the bibliophile in your life. I found the price and the shipping costs from the UK were very reasonable for something fragile which is sent in a triple walled box.

www.bookity.etsy.com

Here we have my favourite stocking stuffer for 2010, the matryoshka doll tweezers available in a number of great colour patterns, I bought for $3.95 with free Australian domestic shipping. I bought mine from Bondi Top Sellers online ebay store

http://stores.ebay.com.au/Bondi-Top-Sellers

As for myself, any book or matryoshka doll themed items will be met with great excitement as I collect them.

As online store shipping deadlines start to loom, consider sending your online gifts directly to the recipient, its one way of helping them on their way a bit faster.

My store deadline for international orders has passed, but Australian domestic orders can be taken up until Dec 14th for Christmas delivery

www.starzyia.etsy.com

www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia

New Satin Cord Necklaces

2010-12-03T22:22:00.000-08:00

I've had a lovely time today photographing these necklaces made a little while ago, they have now been added to my etsy store.

The top image shows a vintage peacock cabochon threaded on an electric blue satin cord, adjustable up to 18 inches. I have two of these, just one listed at the moment.

This sweet painted shell button showing a bird on a branch is another favourite of mine, I have two necklaces like this, one in my etsy store, one in my madeit store www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia

Here you can see a button, which I have pimped out by gluing the rose pendant on top and adding a bail for threading onto the light purple satin cord. Again, I have two like this, one is currently in my etsy store.

All of these would make excellent gifts, but my shipping deadline for overseas delivery has passed, for Australian residents I can take orders up until December 14th.

My etsy address is www.starzyia.etsy.com

Acceptance Is Not Always Appropriate

2010-12-01T23:23:00.000-08:00

Having written about my journey to accept my friends, it may be time to mention that acceptance is not always the best thing, its sad to say that in our lifetime we will probably all have at least one toxic relationship. In my case, you could say I decided not to accept my friend's behaviour any longer, or maybe what I had to accept was that I needed to be brave and part ways.

Its been perhaps four or more years since I parted with my friend, and although I was at the end of my rope when I severed the friendship, I still to this day feel concern for my friend, I wonder how she is, and where she is, but at bottom of my heart I know I don't want to get sucked back in. I can't "just" ring her, or write to her, I don't even want to meet her on the street. I feel guilty about this, but I also know that it is essential for me to avoid her. It still gnaws away at me though.

If you are wondering whether you have the strength to live with this kind of guilt, let me point out, the occasional gnawing guilt has been less stressful for me than the friendship was. It gets more stressful during the time that you are trying to end the friendship, but as time passes you heal and feel relief.

My friend in question was my next door neighbour. We met in January 2000, I had come home from hospital after what you might refer to as a 'breakdown' which I attribute to burn out from my job and the fact that I have bipolar disorder. I was nagged into meeting this woman, let's call her Carrie, by her husband and her mother because she was at home in a rocky emotional state and they thought we could be companions. Not a good match, not a good idea, but I found it difficult to say 'no' when the invitations and suggestions were so frequent. It turned out that although we grew to care for each other very much, it was unhealthy, I suspect she was competing with me to be the most 'unwell'. She also wanted someone who would not judge her, with my psychology degree and counselling experience I seemed like the perfect non-judgemental friend, but I realize I was just wearing my judgement on the inside. At first I believed I was just being respectful, but over a few years I discovered I was just too timid to tell her what I really thought.

Carrie was in denial about the effect her suicide would have on her two very young boys. She found it easy to say they would be better off. Carrie thought that because I have had suicidal times in my life that I understood and accepted her ideas about this.

I also found Carrie to be racist, which is completely unacceptable to me, but most of the time when she would make a remark or share a "joke" I was so shocked I went silent.

I didn't approve of her wastefulness of water either, we are in a crisis here, and she'd hose her driveway down and send gallons of water down the drain without a care in the world, and I would just follow her around like a little dog wagging its tail.

Carrie was also extremely dishonest, rude, disrespectful, and bullying, and again, I'd take it.

Perhaps worst of all, she would try to pimp me to her sex addict husband, and allowed him to sexually harass me in front of her and her kids.

She never made any effort to look after me as a friend, or listen, and frequently used me as a buffer to shelter her from her mother. The mother who originally hoped I'd be a friend for Carrie ended up saying the most horrible things including accusations that I was having sex with her son in law... all of which Carrie was more than happy to pass along to me so that she'd have an ally against her mother. For school events, and family parties, Carrie would beg me to attend claiming the boys wanted me to, but when I would turn up, the boys didn't give a hoot, largely ignored me, what I was really there for was to prevent a scene between mother and daughter.

I spent years fuming, crying, and stressed to my eyeballs before I finally snapped. I was fortunate that Carrie and her husband had divorced and she had moved out of the house (though I'm not too thrilled to still live next door to my harasser) so that I could stop visiting, calling, and responding to texts.

When I knew beyond a doubt that I wanted to end contact with Carrie, I was stressed... how do you end a friendship? I know how to dump a guy, but how do you dump a girl? I never did have that conversation with her, I didn't want to tell her my reasons and be argued with and 'never complain, never explain' did come to mind. So she is out there somewhere, still not aware of her behaviour or how it effects others.... but its my sanity I have to worry about, not hers.

I have healed tremendously in these past years, I don't think I could have while still maintaining that 'friendship', and I know in future I will not allow a toxic relationship to go so far, to take so much of a hold in my life. Nip it in the bud... either by speaking up and giving the person the chance to change, or end it sooner, that is my advice to anyone.

Acceptance

2010-11-29T02:32:00.000-08:00

"You have accepted all your gifts", it was a simple statement that appeared on my computer screen after accepting some facebook game gift requests. It gave me an Aha moment, or as Oprah would say, a lightbulb moment.

I was raised believing that if you have a gift your duty is to share it, and by gifts I mean talents. If God gave you a gift it was your duty to develop it, and if you had any inspiration at all, you share that too. The same for religious understanding, if you have it, then much is expected from you. The greater your gift the more you should make of it. The greater your faith, the greater grasp you have on religion, the more you need to live up to it.

You cannot do this without first accepting your gift.

It has been in recent years that I have started to accept other gifts too, these are not talents but blessings.

The more I have accepted, the less I have had to tolerate. Many people probably do not realize that acceptance beats tolerance hands down. To put it simply, acceptance is loving the grace that is, tolerance suggests 'putting up with' something, not loving it for its own sake.

Ten years ago, I went to stay with a friend I love dearly... but when I got there, absolutely no provisions had been made for my accomodation. The spare mattress was MIA, the linens had to be washed and dried at the laundromat after dark, and during the time that I stayed all our plans for outings and activities had to be postponed for hours at a time as my friend dawdled, dithered, and procrastinated. We were even late to a very expensive outing to the ballet that I had paid for, for her birthday, we had to stand outside waiting to be allowed in at the end of the first act! I was supposed to stay two nights, but my friend wasn't ready to drive me to the train station in time for the last train home from the city to my town. I ended up having to stay another night... under these conditions I was frustrated, I felt like my life had been highjacked, and I just wanted to go home where I was IN CONTROL.

It was an eye opening experience, as I learned to accept my friend, of course, I wasn't accepting immediately, but as time passed I realized this was my friend's lifestyle. My friend was not the same person as myself though we have many things in common. I realized the root of the problem was my expectations.... when reality did not meet my expectations I was disappointed and disillusioned, and okay at times a little angry.

The next time however that I went to stay, I walked in expecting only that I had to be flexible, that my visit was an adventure, and that it was even okay to stay home and talk all day while we did chores, and that it was time together that mattered not how the time was spent.

The following year, my mother and I flew interstate to visit my Aunty Jean. Aunty is vision and hearing impaired and lives alone, she does not drive, so we braved the cab line at the airport and arrived at Aunty Jean's house at dusk. We arrived to a quick hug, and I was greeted with the unpleasant comment about myself 'You've got fat!', this from the woman who had only put on weight as long as I've been alive. I was unhappy to hear it, but realized Aunty was only shocked, she hadn't seen me in more than ten years and I had always been very thin until I became unwell and struck with an illness no one could diagnose (I have since recovered but it was a terrible 12 months). Based on my experience staying with my friend, I wasn't stressed to find that beds had not been made for my mother and I, nor towels laid out, and that before it got any darker one of us would have to climb a ladder and change a lightbulb in what was to be our room. Mum, however, reacted just as graciously as I had the first time staying with my friend, which is to say she was pissed! I tried to explain to mum, that Aunty does not have the same confidence and practice with guests, but could not add that in Aunty's experience she cannot please Mum and that not being able to predict what Mum would want she deferred making decisions so that we could choose for ourselves how to make the old caving in mattess that was my grandmothers more comfortable, and which type of emergency mattress I would like to put on the floor for myself.

Over the past ten years my ability to accept my friends and other people has grown in leaps and bounds, but it has been the last two or maybe three years that I have had a new and very special person come into my life, a fellow blogger, Chez, at Indigo Dreaming (visit her via my blog roll on right of page) and that the final pieces of the acceptance puzzle have fallen into place.

From the day I met Chez, she has been battling with recurrence of breast cancer, and as time passes more and more medical issues are added to her already very full plate. In spite of living on opposite sides of this very vast nation, and having a considerable age difference (which I have to say I really don't notice) and some different life experiences - I have not become a mother yet, neither have I been married - we just understand each other, we get on wonderfully and my life is incredibly enriched by the friendship.

Every now and then I get to thinking that one day, my friend just won't be able to fight any more, and I admit, one night last week I went to bed thinking how easy it would be for me to get stuck in the spiritual quagmire of asking God (in an accusatory voice) why He allowed me to meet and love this woman if only to watch her die (albeit at a distance).

The answer seems very clear to me, that had we met earlier, it would not be the friendship we enjoy today, in fact I was only ready for this friendship the year that we met, and earlier than that I don't think we could have made the connection that we have made. I would have been too young, too unhappy (in fact depression and anxiety made a very heavy toll on my life in my early twenties) here is someone who cherishes life and is working on getting the most she can out of it, and up until a few years ago I was someone who in spite of all the wisdom and faith inherent in my soul, was often suicidal and resentful of life. I think had we crossed paths, neither of us would have looked back, or reached out, we wouldn't give any thought to friendship, I don't think she could have recognised me, and I certainly wasn't able to be the friend I am now.

Knowing this, I am grateful that we 'met' and I accept the gift of our friendship. I accept that some of the things we dream of - actually meeting and spending time together, witnessing each other publish our life stories, living near each other - may never happen. I hope for them to happen, but I accept they may not.

Not only this but I have had the revelation, though I think I've known it subconsciously all along, that I completely accept Cheryl's journey. I won't give up on her, but I won't be pulling on her begging her to stay. In short, I won't be asking her to suffer more. I will allow her to take her journey wherever it may lead, and I accept her every feeling, her every choice, and know that they are her own. I accept that I have a separate journey that is mine and that she feels the same for me and will allow me to take my journey. I accept that we have a shared journey and that is our friendship. In short, I have accepted all my gifts.

Fabulous Finds Friday, Sterling Silver

2010-11-18T21:34:00.000-08:00

I was very excited when my silver teaspoon bracelet arrived this week, mine is the actual one pictured above but there is an amazing range of patterns and silverware vintages in the etsy store Village Boutique. As a tea fantatic, I've been dreaming of a teaspoon bracelet for a few years but all my favourite online tea gift stores were too expensive. Not only that, but they don't give any details of the name of the pattern or its vintage... these are the most fascinating pieces of information, the witholding of this information always makes me assume the spoons are not vintage at all, and I am very attached to the idea of my bracelet having a true history.

My bracelet is the Tuxedo pattern discontinued in 1890! I can see some small signs of a long life in some places on the bracelet which is in amazing condition and every detail of it makes me so joyful. I wonder who owned the spoons originally, and whether we have anything in common besides the spoons?

I received the most excellent customer service from this etsy seller who made sure I bought a bracelet that would fit my wrist, I know that you will get the same care and attention if you visit her store www.villageboutique.etsy.com

Here we have one of my favourite pieces by my etsy boot camp buddy Keona at Noah's Ark Creations. Keona makes the most beautiful and inspiring hand stamped silver jewelry and will custom stamp for you. The necklace pictured here is available, it has the three tags 'hope' 'and' 'faith' with lavender beads... yep lavender again, always sure to make my hit list! I also recommend getting your children or grandchildren's names custom stamped with or without birthstones to match... come and explore the possibilities www.noahbear1.etsy.com

I'm totally loving silver and white topaz for jewelry this holiday seaon.

Stay tuned for my anual Top 10 Stocking Stuffer post.

Introducing My Handmade Postage Stamp Jewelry

2010-11-15T01:49:00.001-08:00

I had to launch with a Christmas stamp, this one is from the UK, I love the tranquil winter setting... the snow... the forest... the second deer in the background. Deer are a traditional symbol of prosperity.

All jewelry featured here today are glazed into brass jewelry settings with a glass cover and a ball and chain necklace of up to 24 inches. I cut mine to at least 20 inches.

I love the teal, beige, and charcoal artwork on this vintage Mocambique stamp (Mozambique) a part of the postmark is visible in the upper right hand section but does not obscure the image of the butterfly.

A little brighter and cheerier is this stamp featuring roses.

This piece is not a stamp, its a miniature of a Mucha art piece and was a special request by my friend who has purchased it.

I'm looking forward to offering more stamp and altered art pieces (and practicing my photography... at the moment I find I get the shadow from the setting cup around the edges, also often the light reflections)

These pieces are now available in my new store section Altered Art Jewelry at www.starzyia.etsy.com

Big Day Shopping With My Mum

2010-11-10T01:52:00.001-08:00

Here is a photo of my mum and I hugging before our day of shopping together, and yes, we still hugged when it was over! We took the train to Perth and walked around the main shopping areas and had a great time.

Mum only embarrassed me once, we were in Kiki-K accessories and she told the shop assistant that she was looking for something 'cheap and nasty'. I thought an aneurism burst in my brain, but the guy laughed and said "we don't really 'do' cheap and nasty". I still cannot believe she said that! After we walked out of the store, I explained a few things to mum.

I said even if you walk into a store by mistake, and it turns out to be Versace and you are way out of your league, you never let on, you act act as if you belong. In a million years I would never tell someone I can't afford what is in their store. Even if they know. They can never be too sure. You don't confirm their suspicions!

Then I said, even when you are buying something 'cheap and nasty' its not really cheap and nasty, cheap yes, but if you're buying it, its not likely to be nasty, its a bargain, it has redeeming features, it has something that makes you think its worth it!

But we had a great laugh about it, even when I said "I'll kill you, I'm never going shopping with you again" I was laughing my ass off.

We had lunch, and then we tackled my shopping wish list... books. An armload of books to be exact. I wanted a large stack for summer reading. I struggled to navigate the store with the number of books I was holding, cue: shoulder pain! cue: back pain! Bless my 70year plus mother for helping me to carry some of my shopping, she's an angel when it comes to things like that. She always makes sure I have my sling and my pills before we leave the house and that I don't carry too much and if there is only one seat on a train, she knows whether to sit on it or offer it to me... no words, she can see by my face if I'm okay or not!

YUCKY BIT WARNING.... on the train on the way home, I said "OH GOD" and mum asks 'what?'.... oh, just a grown woman picking her nose and eating it in public! Do these people forget where they are? I guess if you eat that kind of thing it doesn't much matter where you are.

Hummingbird Earrings, Handmade Symbolic Jewelry

2010-11-07T02:12:00.000-08:00

"At night I dream of the hummingbird; feel the beating of its wings; and if you only had one choice, my dear; would you fly or would you sing?" (Tom McRae)

I love the hummingbird so much that I'm really surprised to say this is my first creation featuring this beautiful, symbolic bird. If you have seen these before, they are the same pair, I only make one of each design, but they badly needed to be rephotographed!

The hummingbird is symbolic of joy and flirtation, and is a great choice of charm to recapture your youthful energy. I'd recommend this as a choice of charm or symbol for someone who needs healing, and wants to reconnect with their inner child. A great way to bring more of the joy of living to your daily outlook.

Green is also a very healing colour, and is youthful, I always refer to green as the 'colour of new ideas', combined with the hummingbird it may be more like the colour of enthusiasm for new experiences.

Green also resonates with self acceptance, I would use this for colour therapy where one needs to be more generous and gentle with self thoughts i.e. to combat harsh self judgment.

My store is filled with individually designed symbolic and healing creations http://www.starzyia.etsy.com/

Fabulous Finds Friday

2010-11-05T00:40:00.000-07:00

A few handmade etsy finds I've been crushing on lately....

Top image is a cotton knit, so its a great fashion choice for vegans. Ruffled Cotton Scarf with Rose Scarf Pin handcrafted by beadedwire on etsy
www.beadedwire.etsy.com

Although I have recently been banned from sitting on my sofa (phsyiotherapists list of rules for my back) I love beautiful cushions for my lounge, bed, and my dressing room day bed where I sit and read in the day. Long time readers might realise that purple is my fave colour! This creation is the lovely Indah Aubergine Decorative Cushion Cover by snuggleupcushions on etsy.

www.snuggleupcushions.etsy.com

While I'm on this purple bender, here is a beautiful necklace by fellow Australian etsian and DUST member dspdavey, this necklace was selected for the front page of etsy! Eggplant Beauty Necklace

www.dspdavey.etsy.com

MMMmmmm time to change into my very relaxing purple pjs and relax, yes it is only turning 4pm but I'm tired, in pain, and just want to signal to myself that the day's work is done and its going to be a lot more comfortable from here on!

Its Here... 20% OFF JEWELRY all November! Starry Girl by Starzyia

2010-10-31T21:28:00.000-07:00

Its here! My Early Bird Christmas Sale.... save 20% off jewelry in both my etsy and madeit stores, for the entire month of November. As I wish to encourage early christmas shopping when I am less busy and the post office lines are shorter, no offer I make in December will beat this.

Most of this is newly listed stock and you can grab it at sale price! Please note that I only create one of each design.

Etsy shoppers: the listing prices have been cut by 20% on all stock marked ON SALE so you only need to pay the discounted price and shipping, no code word needed, and no waiting for me to send a discount refund. All items in my jewelry and earrings store sections are included in this sale.

Madeit shoppers: the prices have not been pre reduced, you will save 20% on the listing price of ALL items in store. Either pay with paypal and I will send your discount amount back as a paypal refund ASAP, or if you are an Australian resident and select to pay by cheque or money order I will send you a message asking you to pay the discounted price and shipping NOT the full price! Once again no code word needed!

I am happy to combine shipping if you order from both stores, the shipping will be recalculated and the excess refunded or discounted.

The far top image shows Diva Butterfly Earrings in my etsy store, these have a great vintage feel, but are a fresh handmade creation with plenty of sparkling bling.

The next image shows All Things Nice, lavender and violet beaded earrings, in the Madeit store www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia

Sweet Love Birds Roosting, the pink, Madeit store variation (I have a red pair in etsy)

my etsy store is http://www.starzyia.etsy.com/

you can keep track of my additions and notifications by following me on twitter, see button on right of page.

Happy shopping to you! I am thrilled to have bought my father's christmas gift this week, he is by far my hardest to buy for, a big relief to have found something great for him SSHHHH I can't say what it is!

Who is your most difficult person to shop for?

Here Comes the Holiday Stock...

2010-10-28T03:23:00.000-07:00

True Heart Earrings... find your true holiday heart... forget the 'to do' list, don't stress, just for the momen, remember your childhood enthusiasm for the season.

Lolita Red Belle, already sold in my madeit store, shout out to my very loyal buyer, Kasey, who scooped them up!

Dreamy Snowflake Earrings, gorgeous swarovski crystal with an AB finish, they display dazzling show of colour, and will soon be added to etsy this weekend.

I love red and silver for the holidays, the colour red is linked with prosperity, good fortune, and is a great energy colour for love and celebration.

Celebration Earrings, dazzling iridescent display of colour like confetti or fireworks, great party or holiday earrings.

Why am I releasing my holiday jewelry already? Because I am preparing for a month long Early Bird Special... I want to encourage holiday purchases when I and the post office are less busy, you get the best choice of what you want (considering I only make one of any design!)... so for the month of November I am reducing listing prices by 20% and to make it fair, no offer I make in December will beat this!

My stores are www.starzyia.etsy.com

and

www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia

please visit any time!

Introducing Keona of Noah's Ark Creations

2010-10-19T00:34:00.000-07:00

I'd really like to take this time to introduce you to my etsy holiday boot camp buddy, Keona, of Noah's Ark Creations. When I saw a forum post from Keona asking how she could get a buddy, I felt compelled to check out her store and as soon as I did, I knew I had found her, my perfect boot camp buddy. I'm so lucky, I couldn't ask for a better buddy and I believe we will be friends long into the future.

But who is Keona, and what is it that I love about her beautiful creations? Keona is mom to a beautiful boy, Noah, but Keona has also suffered the loss of two children before birth and instead of walling herself off from others, has chosen to bravely share her love and inspiration with other women. I find her to be a warm and positive person who cares for others and who expresses this through friendships with other moms and by creating the most comforting, uplifting and meaningful jewelry.

The top image, is the Remembrance Necklace and Bracelet Set, a beautiful, unique and symbolic handmade offering from her etsy store. Keona has beautifully described the way elephants in the wild surround a mother who has lost her baby and stay with her, supporting her as long as she needs. This set offers you the chance to be surrounded by elephants, with four charms each on the necklace and bracelet.

The image above is "Because of You, I Am Strong", another etsy shop star for Keona. There is a stamped disc reading 'because of you i am strong', a smaller disc with baby footprints, and the necklace is finished for you when you select the birthstone you wish Keona to add to remember your precious baby.

You will also find other inspirational designs, and can custom order a message of your own, and Keona will take great care in creating a special order just for you.

Keona's business, Noah's Ark Creations can be found http://www.etsy.com./shop/noahbear1

Also she blogs at http://noahsarkcreations.blogspot.com/

and you can become a facebook fan when you visit her blog.

Thank you Keona for enriching my etsy journey.

Dicount Code SAVE 15% off LISTING PRICES ALL JEWELRY

2010-10-15T19:45:00.000-07:00

Its my birthday weekend, and to celebrate I'm sharing a 15% discount with my friends and readers, you can save 15% off the listing prices of all earrings and jewelry in either of my online stores, for 48 Hours (ends Monday 18th Oct at 10.30am)

Just enter the code 'bestwishes' at checkout message to seller, or paypal instructions to merchant, and I will issue a paypal refund for the amount of your discount ASAP.

My store addresses are www.starzyia.etsy.com and www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia

The top image today shows my Grace Abiding earrings, from my madeit store, these feature the natural gemstone autumn jasper, and were recently selected by the website Cuteable!

The second image shows my newest etsy listing, Lead, Kindly Light necklace, entwined chain and ribbon, with large filigree heart, lantern charm, and glass pearls. Homeis where the heart is, and the lantern is symbolic of faith, vigilance, and safe homecoming. The necklace is named after an old hymn and a scanned image of the vintage hymn book page is included with the listing.

I'd really love to share my birthday happiness with you!

My New Business Cards, designed by wingsdove

2010-10-13T23:53:00.000-07:00

I just received my new business card design from etsy seller wingsdove www.wingsdove.etsy.com aka Mary Walilko these were made to co-ordinate with the banner and avatar she created for me earlier this year.

I love working with Mary, she works quickly and carefully and not only am I always happy with the final creation, but the entire experience is so satisfying. When I approached her for the first time to get my banner and avatar, Mary amazed me with a questionnaire which really got me thinking about my business, in truth it was the first time I seriously thought about who my ideal customer was beyond simply anyone who enjoyed what I created. My mind was expanded by this edifying set of questions, in truth, not only did my shop get a makeover to be more professional, but I myself was made over and the two things combined have made a big difference for me.

Mary also has a blog here http://www.seo-web-pro.blogspot.com and a very active facebook fanpage which you can join via her blog.

Birds, Butterflies, Cats, Christmas and More!

2010-10-11T21:26:00.000-07:00

I've been gathering sets of stamps again for my etsy shop, these are scanned images of Hungarian bird stamps which would make beautiful digital art, altered art, and jewelry for those inclined.

The lucky buyers of my stamp sets will have unlimited use of their stamps simply by scanning them before use!

I have Christmas stamps, birds, butterflies, cats, flowers... and can easily gather a set for you on another theme upon request. I am really loving sailing ships at the moment they are great for cards and gifts for men, and have a beautiful timeless feel. I have rainbow after rainbow of British Queen head stamps, in a size small enough for charm bracelet settings or earrings.

If you buy stamps from me and send a picture of your finished project I'd be happy to feature it here in my blog.

www.starzyia.etsy.com

Symbolic Gift Guide: Choosing a Charm or Totem

2010-10-06T02:08:00.000-07:00

Charms are all the rage again, and while the European style bracelets are all incredibly popular, you can also get your charms made up as necklaces and earrings... the trick is to find the most meaningful charms for your personality. Choosing a charm is like choosing a personal totem. I thought I'd run through the magic of some charms you might choose and what they say about you.

TEAPOTS my top image is pair of teapot earrings from my madeit store, the teapot is the source point for inspiration and wisdom. Through the ages many great ideas have had their origin or their salvation from a quiet moment's retreat from the pressures of the day. The great zen minds have all had their say on the value of serenity and ritual attached to drinking tea.

PARASOLS the parasol is a protective and loving symbol, traditionally the guardian of a woman's beauty and virtue.

CAROUSEL a symbol of the circle of life, this is a youthful, inspirational and uplifting choice of charm, good for healing your inner child.

FERRIS WHEEL another symbol of the circle of life, but the view from the top of the wheel reminds us of the value of perspective and wisdom gained from our life journey. A good choice for someone who has a positive attitude to ageing and values the life they have lived.

ROLLER SKATES are a fun and happy charm, linked to children a good charm for the young, but perhaps also a loving grandparent who wishes to remember and appreciate their own childhood.

ICE SKATES are more elegant and graceful than the roller skate and suits a classically beautiful woman. The ice skates gives us the ability to glide across frozen water, suggesting our triumph over the trials and obstacles of life.

BICYLES represent independence, joy, innoncence, and health.

SCISSORS are a great charm for women, people who sew or craft, and the charm represents diligence, industry, and are sharp denoting mental clarity. Good for the memory and those who don't like to be idle.

KEYS represent safety and opprtunity - perhaps the key to a new idea. Keys are also traditional for coming of age gifts at the 21st birthday.

LANTERNS represent faith, vigilance, and inspiration. The sight of a lit lantern upon a late night homecoming is most welcoming, probably the reason why lanterns evoke a subconscious feeling of wellbeing.

HUMMINGBIRDS (pictured above stock from my etsy store) mean hope and joy and help restore the energy you may have left behind in your youth, I'd choose this charm to feel happier, stronger, and more healed.

SWANS are symbolic of purity, innocence, and are considered very lucky.

BLUEBIRDS are for happiness, contentment, and valuing the small treasures in your life (observing the daily causes for gratitude) therefore not missing the bigger picture in life.

WOODPECKER is linked to psychic ability and enhances communication, a great charm for helping you bring out your hidden talents.

PELICANS a hopeful and triumphant choice after all its a peli-CAN not a peli-CAN'T! Very cheery and clever birds, a good totem for a survivor.

OWLS are symbolic of wisdom and mysticism. Night creatures are a great choice of charm because they can guard us while we sleep.

DEER and REINDEER are both a symbol of prosperity. The deer is linked to eternal youth probably because of their amazing athleticism and joyful leaping. Lighten your heart and show affection with this choice of charm.

CAMELS the ship of the desert, this animal proves the saying 'where there's a will there's a way'.

FOX this creature has keen senses, and an ingenious ability to escape trouble. In Japan the fox denotes longevity and protection.

LIONS denote personal honour and nobility, a heroic choice of charm and is also linked to royalty.

SNAKES this is the wisest animal in Chinese astrology. The iconic image of a snake eating itself is symbolic of eternal life. Choosing a snake makes a distinctive statement and will add power to a collection of charms that embraces a lot of the softer, more adorable animals and birds.

LIGHTHOUSE the image above is stock from my madeit store. The lighthouse is a great charm for protection, safe journey, inspiration, and homecoming.

There are many more (possibly unlimited) charms I could have mentioned here, if you are interested you might check my blog archive for other symbolic gift posts, and watch out for my future posts.

I have many more pieces of jewelry featuring a wide range of charms and symbolic meanings in both my stores http://www.starzyia.etsy.com/ and www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia

I collect charms from new and vintage sources around the world to continue to provide meaningful and unique creations and have many stored waiting to become a beautiful creation. It is possible for me to create a meaningful item for you for any occasion.

Regret Not Me, my new Portable Memorial Jewelry

2010-09-29T23:55:00.000-07:00

Its been a year of losses for many around me and I have found myself making jewelry as a kind of portable memorial for those who grieve, and also as a symbol that there is hope for the future even in the darkest of times.

The top image is of my Regret Not Me earrings just added to etsy, these were inspired by the Thomas Hardy poem of that name, in this poem, Hardy speaks of slumbering peacefully beneath a tree. These earrings are black as the pain of grief, but the etched bead is like a nut or seed for new life and the leaf is also symbolic of the life cycle. Although I could only use an excerpt of the poem in my listing, here is the poem in its entirity, from my beloved book "Poems of Thomas Hardy, selected and introduced by Claire Tomalin" (Penguin Classics 2006)
Regret Not Me:

Regret not me

Beneath the sunny tree

I lie uncaring, slumbering peacefully.

Swift as the light

I flew my faery flight

Ecstatically I moved, and feared no night.

I did not know

That heydays fade and go

But deemed that what was would be always so.

I skipped at morn

Between the yellowing corn

Thinking it good and glorious to be born.

I ran at eves

Among the piled up sheaves

Dreaming, "I grieve not, therefore nothing grieves".

Now soon will come

The apple, pear and plum

And hinds will sing, and autumn insects hum.

Again you will fare

To cider-makings rare

and junketings; but I shall not be there.

Yet gaily sing

Until the pewter ring

Those songs we sang when we went gipsying.

And lightly dance

Some triple-timed romance

In coupled figures, and forget mischance.

And mourn not me

Beneath the yellowing tree

For I shall mind not, slumbering peacefully.

(Thomas Hardy)

I also have these czech cross earrings in black and gold, this pair on a chain, a second pair hangs simply from their earwires, in brass findings.

My heart goes out to all who have lost near and dear ones, may you find some hope and comfort in your lives.

My Prison Photo

2010-09-28T01:40:00.001-07:00

Today I got a call to action from Amnesty International, asking me to upload my photo on behalf of Burmese conscience prisoners, these are the people imprisoned in Burma (Myanmar) for making comments 'against the government'. As the nation prepares for an election, we remember that the results of the last election were ignored and the winning canditate imprisoned in her own home. This respected woman, who has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, remains a prisoner, and over 2000 citizens are in Burmese prisons for their beliefs alone.

If you could please use this link http://3freedoms.ammesty.org/ you can have fun, give your friends and family a laugh at your 'prison pic', help promote awareness and hopefully achieve positive change for the people of Burma.

Amnesty International operates secure sites, and respects your privacy, your identity and email will not be used in the promotion, only a first name and a nation are displayed with your pic in the campaign. I have always enjoyed security and peace of mind while supporting the Charity.

Starry Girl by Starzyia smilebox promo

2010-09-25T02:46:00.000-07:00

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My Recent Handmade Purchases

2010-09-23T19:36:00.000-07:00

My moratorium on shopping (due to saving for surgery) has been lifted, and here are some of my recent handmade purchases.

To begin with, my jeans were getting a little loose, and for a long time I've wanted a decent belt instead of the cheap junk I picked up from Kmart or hand-me-down leather from my Dad. I had seriously considered going to David Jones in the city as I have often browsed the belts there while waiting for my mother. I knew from that experience that I would need a good 70 to 100 dollars to come away with something nice. But then I remembered an etsy seller I had seen while browsing, and thought I'd look up the shop, and I'm so glad I did, because I was able to get a custom sized belt with a beautifully designed belt buckle, as you can see in my top image, and I can tell you I only paid USD$24 for the belt.
The etsy seller is Valento www.valento.etsy.com and I really enjoyed the friendly service, and he created my custom size faster than anticipated, the quality of the belt is excellent, I really could not be happier!

The image above is of my handmade headband from etsy seller BargainHeadbands, her bands promise to be headache free (which is important for me) and both my bands delivered on this promise. Not only that, but this seller is happy to adjust your band for you if you find it is too tight or the wrong size when it arrives. It is also possible to shop for co-ordinating headbands and purses. I believe the shop link is www.bargainheadbands.etsy.com

Here we have an image of matryoshka dolls handmade by Australian seller Plushka, I bought one of the dark blue dolls for my dressing room. Not only beautiful, the doll has immaculate stitching, and I was excited by how quickly I received my new doll, and very pleased with the friendly service. There are so many great finds in Plushka's store, please visit her, www.madeit.com.au/Plushka

What have you been buying lately?

Guess and Win Butterfly contest Winner Announced

2010-09-21T20:05:00.000-07:00

First of all I'd like to thank the people who entered a guess, and comiserate with those who had difficulty leaving a comment as there have been some blogger site issues recently, in future I will hold contests where you can enter through a variety of sites - Twitter, Facebook, and Blogger combined.

The number of butterflies I have in my room, is 42!

Therefore the closest guess belongs to Chez, who guessed 37. I will be contacting you Chez and sending your prize once it is all nicely wrapped up.

If you have an idea for a fun and interesting competition I could run I would love to hear from you as I am currently brainstorming for the future.

Here's to the future!

Free Contest, Have Fun and Win Butterfly Earrings

2010-09-13T20:43:00.000-07:00

I will ship these earrings to anywhere in the world for free, to the lucky winner of this contest. The earrings feature a pewter butterfly in antiqued gold finish, with sapphire coloured rhinestone in a heart setting.

To win, simply guess the number of butterflies in my room! I will give you some guideline hints below. The contest will run until midnight Perth Western Australia time on the 21st September. The winner will be either:

1 The person who guesses the exact number of butterflies.

2. The person who is closest to the exact correct number of butterflies

In the event of multiple people guessing the same number or being equally close to it (ie in the event of a tie) the names of the people tied up will be put in an online randomiser and one winner will be decided by chance.

My family members are not eligible to enter. My friends who have had access to this room are ineligible to enter. This is a contest for my online friends and readers, and will be fairly refereed.

To enter, just leave a comment below with the number you wish to guess.

HINTS and TIPS

The room is small-medium room measuring 3 metres by 3 metres.

The room is multi purpose, it is my dressing room with built in wardrobes and tall boy drawers, it is also a room housing tall bookshelves.... it is a room I sit in and read comfortably, listen to music, and sit or lie on the day bed. I find this room very relaxing.

My clothes are all put away inside the closet/wardrobes so any butterfly clothing is not counted in the tally.

The curtains and upholstery do not have any butterflies on them.

There are 4 framed pieces of art hanging on the walls.

There is a pin up board on which hang all my personally owned earrings, but none of the earrings made for my stores are in the room.

There is not a ridiculously large number of butterflies in the room, although I can look in any direction and find butterflies, their numbers are not overwhelming.

Do not guess 500 or more butterflies that is way too many!

I will announce the correct number of butterflies on Wednesday 22 September and who has won!

Why not visit my fellow etsian and awesome blogger Jess who has very kindly featured me this week in her segment 'makers', you can read my interview, and while there, explore recipes, spiral jewelry, tips for your own handmade success and all kinds of fun posts!
http://messy-bessie.com/2010/09/makers-starzyia/

Wedding Gift for My Cousin

2010-09-04T00:27:00.001-07:00

Hi, I am still alive and well... just bowled over by how busy I have been, I go to bed each night thinking how happy I am, so I can't complain. I have even found a bit of time to read at night and have a large stack of new books to slowly pick my way through. I am also happy to say I no longer need to save for that out of pocket surgical expense!

This week I have taken some time to hand make a pair of earrings for my cousin who has just gotten married, I wanted something classically beautiful and elegant for Elizabeth and of course they had to have a special meaning.

These pearl and ivy leaf earrings are hopefully a perfect match for my cousin's taste in jewelry. Ivy is a traditional wedding gift to promote fidelity, and pearls are for married happiness, wisdom, and women's health.

I do have some jewelry in my stores designed for married happiness and one pair of earrings in my www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia store a little more exotic, named Song of Solomon after the classic love verses in the bible.

Creating With Vintage Postage Stamps

2010-08-07T19:00:00.000-07:00

I confess, I love the way vintage postage stamps are being reused and let's face it, reborn, for use in beautiful jewelry and papercraft projects. I wanted to show you my two current favourite etsy pieces in case you need some inspiration.

The top picture is a ring! yes, a beautiful handmade ring using vintage butterfly postage stamps, there are a lot of butterfly and dragonfly pieces in this etsy shop levydesign the quick link directly to this ring is www.etsy.com/listing/48725199/in-mauve

This vintage postage necklace is from izzabellarose on etsy, www.etsy.com/listing/50228620/vintage-postage-necklace

And in case you don't have a stamp collection of your own to raid, you could always try shopping for stamps on etsy, and I do have several sets in my store www.starzyia.etsy.com In addition to the birds, butterflies, flowers, etc that are in my store now, I will soon be adding more flowers, and christmas stamps absolutely gorgeous for special seasonal creations!

Recreating the Created, Reinventing My Handmade Jewelry

2010-07-22T20:41:00.000-07:00

I have just been remaking some of my early, unsold creations... I had nice elements, but tended to make everything too big, too over the top... which was probably more to do with inexperience than taste, since I prefer classically elegant, feminine pieces. You will also be able to see that my photography has improved, though I will always be learning new tips and tricks.

The apple earrings above are remade from the earrings below.... I don't know why I thought these beautiful glass apple charms needed any additional beads, they are just so lovely on their own. Plus the section with the swarovski butterflies are set aside to make a different pair of earrings, so I've turned one creation into two.

These painted shell buttons and blue beads are the new edition of a piece that was one of my first etsy stocked items.... people liked them (or claimed to) but really they were too long and too busy. Much better don't you think?

Now back to my fun, going through my stored items and reclaiming some beautiful beads that might otherwise go to waste.

Etsy Christmas in July

2010-07-15T01:17:00.000-07:00

Its my first etsy, Christmas in July sale, and I'm offering discounts on all creations in my 'jewelry' and 'earring' store sections. The discount is off the listed price, and exludes shipping, your discount will be refunded ASAP after you have cleared checkout.

Save 15% off when you buy one item
Save 20% when you buy two items
Save 25% when you buy three or more items.

All my creations have symbolic, traditional or healing properties, the meaning and effect of each creation is carefully described in my store and can be printed to accompany items when they sell.

You can visit my store www.starzyia.etsy.com via this link or using my etsy display on the right of this page.

My Rainy Day Creation

2010-07-09T00:13:00.000-07:00

I received these vintage buttons several months ago, and made these earrings up in five minutes today, I am thinking they might be for me, since I love green earrings (they bring out my eyes). I have four of the same buttons with purple hearts, and one pink one (shame, wish I had two, I guess the pink will make a necklace!).

The wet and stormy weather has driven me out of my office, since I have to cover things with a plastic tarp and put a bucket under the damp area on the ceiling... perilously close to my computer.... the desktop has to stay there but at least my laptop can be brought out here, in the warm dining room.

Winter is beginning to take its toll on my hands, I have wonderful hand creams, but when should I use them... I don't like it when I'm going to work with beads as I don't want greasy fingerprints everywhere, same with using the computer, and reading books.... does anyone else have this problem? I put it on before bed, but rubbed my eye early in the night... stung like crazy, tears ran down my face... that'll teach me.

It is however good reading weather, I love being snuggled up reading in winter, though I am shocked to discover the last five books I've read are classified as Young Readers or Young Adult books.... is that why I've struggled with my current book The Witches of Eastwick, I found when I got to page 14 that I had drifted through a terrible amount of the text and will have to give myself a stern admonishment to 'pay attention!'

Anyway, its time to stoke up the fire, and I confess, also to get myself over to facebook to play Treasure Madness....

Prouds Jewellers? A Little Less High and Mighty if You Please!

2010-07-04T21:05:00.000-07:00

One of the only pieces of jewellery I regularly wear not made by myself is my add-a-charm bracelet purchased from Prouds Jewellers Australia, it is also the only piece of jewellery that falls apart at least once a year. Originally purchased in october 2008 it has fallen apart 3 times already. The first time it needed a jump ring, the second time the clasp needed to be repaired or replaced, and today again it was a jump ring.

Obviously I can repair this jewellery myself, but on principle I have not in the past, I think the onus is on them to take care of their customers and make amends for the poor quality of their products.

Today when I popped in the shop I was completely astounded when they told me it would be $3 for a new jump ring! Ridiculous! I have never paid before and certainly won't now.

From their conversation with me they know darn well how easily this jewellery falls apart, they admit the jump rings are not strong, and can even break in winter when people wear wool and the bracelet snags.... one girl who works there told me she gets all her jump rings soldered to prevent falling apart.

Excuse me? Shouldn't you sell the jewellery with soldered jump rings so that it doesn't fall apart?
I paid enough for my bracelet and did the right thing buying it from them and not the $2 stand at the beading and craft fair! I expect for the price I paid that the jewellery is sold in good faith knowing it is adequate for the intended use which is daily wear.

The intentional sale of weak and breakable jewellery is not satisfactory.

I was lucky none of my charms ended up in the toilet bowl!

I am absolutely seething, I have contacted the HQ already (snail mail.... they really don't like sharing their contact email!). Whether or not they assist me I certainly won't be caving in and paying $3 for puny jump ring, I will fix it myself on principle!

In the meantime I have found a great website, called not good enough www.notgoodenough.org
this is a great place to vent your dissatisfaction and learn from others who have had dealings with the same comany of government department you have had trouble with. I see their are other Prouds complainees, and many many Telstra (Australian phone company... we all know how that goes!)

By the way for my fellow aussies, I recently signed up for the class action against the banks, it was very easy and did not take long, and if you don't know how many times you have had the excessive fees imposed it does not matter, sign up now, and they do the research later, or you can get bank statements re-issued.

I need to take a lunch break from venting now! I don't want this to become a complaints blog but I had to get it out of my system.

My Boycott of Marmaduke Movie and Mission to Save Great Danes from Ear Cropping

2010-06-27T22:18:00.000-07:00

Could you honestly turn the puppy above, into the dog below? Could you stand by while someone cropped his ears simply to make them stand erect? No? Then help me to do something, please...

The current movie Marmaduke, opening in Australia on July 1st is a great starting point. I am boycotting this movie, dvd rental and sales, all merchandising, and any fast food tie ins because this beautiful animal has had his ears cropped.

We in Australia do not crop the ears of our great danes, neither is it common in Europe, where the breed originated, only in America do breeders habitually crop the ears of this beautiful, gentle breed. It is not done for any medical reason, it is simply aesthetic to make the dog look fiercer and more intelligent.

The American Kennel Club breed guidelines for the showing of pedigree great danes prohibits the showing of dogs that have had their tail docked, but allows for cropped ears. An animal that has not had its ears cropped can be shown but will be in the minority. If an animal has had its ears cropped but they are not nice and erect and matching, they will not be successful and will be useless except as a breeding animal or pet.... it will have gone through this pain and suffering for nothing!

If you ask me, all this pain and suffering is in vain. The animal is a beautiful, healthy animal as it arrives in this world and requires no alteration.

The most important thing you can do is contact the American Kennel Club and pressure them to prohibit the showing of dogs with cropped ears. I am currently trying various methods of contacting them via their website and facebook page. It is also essential to contact the Great Dane Club of America www.gdca.org and I will also be expanding from their to contact as many American breeders as possible to see whether they crop their dogs ears or not and whether they will help to extinguish this barbaric practice.

As for the movie, I am boycotting it which you can do too, I will be contacting as many of the people or companies below to explain the reason, otherwise they will just think their movie is a dud, and never know that this issue has hurt them financially and socially.

The film is being distributed by 20th Century Fox

The studio which produced the movie is listed as Regency Enterprises Davis Entertainment

The producer is John Davis, I hope he is contactable through the company above.

The director of the film is Tom Dey

Key actors in the movie include Owen Wilson, Kiefer Sutherland, and William H Macy.

I am currently working on finding the very best routes to contact the involved parties as of course they are not very accessible to mere mortals such as I. I will let you know of any very good email or web addresses I find, but of course the most important are the American Kennel Club and GDCA as they have direct influence over the cropping of ears.

The ASPCA would also be a good group to contact as they frequently run campaigns on key issues effecting the health and safety of animals in America. I am waiting for a response from them.

I would truly appreciate any involvement you can make, and assure you our dogs in Australia have the best of health and happiness with no ill effects from not having cropped ears, they are as God made them, and truly the greatest friends you can have.

My Cat Does Downward Dog Every Day, Why Don't I?

2010-06-20T18:18:00.000-07:00

Hi, just returning after a time of illness.... nothing serious, but I'm relieved to feel much better. As someone who has gathered a lifetime's worth of health and healing knowledge, I am surprised to see that I have some borderline areas of health. Its not that I don't know better.... but this is all due to caffeine.

I just had a bone density utrasound and I am at the very bottom of the 'medium risk' category (my dot on the graph is actually touching 'high risk') and its not that I don't eat a healthy, high calcium diet.... its that my day is littered with caffeine in the form of tea or coke zero. The thing about caffeine is that it not only destroys the nutrients in your digestive system at the time of consumption, it is also capable of destroying your body stores of some nutrients. I've always known this.... but I love to have my dinner with a glass of coke zero, and let's face it, often my lunch as well.

I also have iron issues.... and iron supplements are not always very effective for me because of the caffeine issue again. That is why I have had iron infusion.

All I have to do is carve out a time in my day that will be sufficiently caffeine free, and for all practical purposes it needs to be my meal time so that those nutrients aren't wasted.

So, I've been looking at my cat.

My cat eats his meals with water.

My cat has the reputation of sleeping all day... but he always gets up and moves around, just as we are told to not stay in one position too long at our computers or desks. We should stretch, we should walk a little, we should switch from standing and walking.

There is no chance I'd be low in Vitamin D if I copied my cat's example and spent a bit more time out in the sun.

My cat is 17 years old and though he is a bit stiff in the hind legs, the rest of him remains limber, I should be stretching like he does, I should do yoga or pilates, if he can do the downward dog on a daily basis, so can I!

I have had pets over the years, that if you give them their daily ration in one hit, they will eat it in one hit. But not my Roman, he only eats what he needs, when he needs it. Yes he will come running at the sound of the biscuit bowl rattling, but he does not 'clean his plate', he will leave even the most miniscule amount of food behind if it is excess to what he needs at the time. I will come along and see three, five, even ten tiny biscuits left behind for later.... where many humans would not leave such a dissatisfactory amount for later.

So, I don't know about you, but I'm going to follow my cat's good example from now on.

Venting: Computers! Banks! Computers Some More...

2010-06-08T23:09:00.000-07:00

For some reason, one morning this week, I turned on my computer, and my google toolbar was gone. I was mystified. Where did it go? Why did it go? How could it leave me? And why, does the google search box on the google home page not work nearly half as well as the google toolbar search box? Not even a quarter as well, I mean lets face it, I type in the same stuff, I get completely unrelated results. I type in madeit.com.au and instead of the Australian handmade market in the mode of etsy (where I have set up another shop) I get listings for australian strippers, ebay, and all kinds of crap....

So a bit rushed for time, I thought I'd look for my google toolbar under my internet browsers toolbar under tools, under toolbars, and saw google toolbar listed without a ticked box next to it. So I clicked on it, only to be asked if I'd like to disable my google toolbar. No, you demented computer, my toolbar has been disabled though I don't know how, when, or why, or why you seem to think it has not been disabled BUT IT HAS!!!

Being busy, I gave up, and added the fast search toolbar for my chosen internet browser. It worked about as 'well' as the google homepage search box which is to say NOT VERY. However on most ocassions over the next few days the actual site I would be searching for would appear in the top 10 search results so I made do with that.

Today, I had a spare half hour on my hands, so I decided to go back to the toolbars menu and disable the google toolbar officially..... so that I could use the google homepage search box to look for the google toolbar to install from scratch. Not even with the google homepage search box do you find google toolbar in the top 10 results..... all manner of other toolbars beats it in the search!

Anyway, I got it, installed it, and watched in awe as it returned to the top of my page as it should always have been. I don't know where it has been, but it remembers me, it remembers that when I type blogger.com into it that the first suggestion is for me to create a new post on this blog, without signing in, it just takes me straight to the page to start my post! I love you google toolbar, will you have my baby? Don't ever leave me again!

My next computer gripe is about temperamental live links made in my bigblog site.... I have a link to my new madeit store www.madeit.com.au/Starzyia listed on the side of my page there where it says 'favourite links', I also made a link in the post where I first announced to my Aussie blog friends that my shop was opened, and a link yesterday in a post announcing my new store banners (yes! finally I look more professional!). Well what is the big deal? Simply that all three links are typed exactly the same (I have proofread them all) and the favourite link works, the link from the first blog post works, and yesterday's link DOES NOT. Not only that, but this problem arose immediately before I restored my google toolbar so when I typed the link into search box it did not seem to exist on any plane of the cyber world. What is with this inconsistency? Is my computer messing with me? It is isn't it, its some kind of game surely?

Also, you may remember I am trying to save $5000 for out of pocket surgical expenses.... today I went into my bank and deposited $750 only to be given a printed slip stating my new balance was $661. Not only was that amount less than my deposit, but I had already saved at least TWICE that amount in the account. The account is used for saving for my surgery, but is also my Visa debit account which I use online to buy craft supplies and pay my etsy fees... all via Paypal so I feel secure, but still, what was I to think but that somehow I had been the victim of fraud? I was shaking, nearly crying as the teller checked out the situation for me.... He didn't say much, at one point he told me the account had been overdrawn. Impossible! At long last he gave me a slip with my correct balance of over two thousand dollars on it, and the matter was settled, without apology or explaination I might add. I don't ever want them to scare me like that again!

On a happier note, I would love for you to check out my new store banner which you can do at either my etsy or madeit store, I admit I spend too much time looking at it when I'm on site.... how could I not have gone to the designer sooner (wingsdove on etsy if you are curious, she is brilliant!). If you want a 20% discount on completed jewelry type in 'blogbuddy' in message to seller at etsy checkout or paypal checkout for either store, and I will refund your discount ASAP (excludes shipping cost) ends JUNE 20!

How have you been? I must get around and check you all out, I am flitting around like a butterfly on here now I have my google back! Its like getting my mojo back!

Breathing New Life - Look How I Converted My Prom Jewelry

2010-05-13T18:01:00.000-07:00

Obviously I don't need to tell you that is my before shot! The hair, the make up, it all screams style nightmare.... The earrings were gold discs with black tassels hanging off them. What a hoot!

Well I've recently started a craze of converting the junk jewelry I have lying around and these earrings were one of the first in line. Behold, the 'new' earrings....

So my first job was to remove the tassels, they are not going to be used in jewelry but could suit book marks.

I used wire cutters to remove the surgical steel post from the discs, I then had to use a metal file to smooth down the sharp stump on the back of each disc. This was the most time consuming and painful part - hand cramp!

From my treasure box I found the two ivy leaf charms, and from my bead spice rack (spice rack where all the jars and bottles are full of beads!) I selected the four green cloisonne beads.

Then I simply had to assemble the new jewelry, I used eye pins to connect the leaf to the cloisonne bead and made a loop to hang it from the disc. For the top I used an eye pin to connect the disc to the cloisonne bead, finished off with a loop, and put a small jump ring and french ear wire to complete.

But my favourite converted jewelry is a pair of my dad's vintage cufflinks that I cut and filed the cufflink attachment off to make cabochons which I set into a bracelet settings, I get one, and the other is available in my etsy store www.starzyia.etsy.com

Sweet Tweet Suncatcher

2010-05-10T03:27:00.000-07:00

My heart was singing a song of joy when I created this suncatcher, the elements and symbols combine to promote joyful communication and contentment. From bird - who sings her messages - to amethyst for positive communication and upliftment, to crystal which captures and spreads energy in the form of light from the sun.....

The bird and flower charm is 10cm long, and is a brass that is lovely and bright like the top picture. The crystal is very effective, cut in an octagon shape, I have had it in my personal collection for a long time. The chip beads are genuine amethyst.

My only problem is getting this creation to fit into a tiny etsy lead pic...

Pearls of Wisdom, Baroque Drop Earrings

2010-05-04T03:06:00.000-07:00

Fresh add to my store, www.starzyia.etsy.com Pearls of Wisdom, created to promote wisdom, happiness, female health and fertility in accordance with traditional lore. Pearls are also the birthstone for June and the traditional gift for 30th wedding anniversaries.

My Mother's Day shipping deadlines have passed, but you can still get free shipping for all completed jewelry until May 10th.

I spent a lovely afternoon researching whether the scroll designs on the focal beads are baroque or renaissance.... it is extremely close call, I am going with baroque in the title, and renaissance is tucked in the description.... sometimes a scroll is a scroll!

Edible Medicine

2010-04-21T18:14:00.000-07:00

This is one of the subjects nearest and dearest to my heart, I am a lifelong believer in using food to heal, its safe, its natural, and its much more enjoyable than swallowing a pill. I'm not suggesting you ditch your pills, but you can use food to get extra benefits, and I find its easy to treat children with food, assuming they are up to eating or drinking. Everything I cover here today is safe especially if you stick to the standard culinary amounts - I call them Spice Rack Remedies, although I will also cover some fruit and vegetables too. There's only one rule, don't get to thinking 'if this much is good for you, then this much extra will be really, really good'. One law of medicine is that a small amount of any substance gives a predictable effect, but a large amount of the same substance produces the opposite effect in the same body areas.

What I am talking about here is how to use edible medicine in culinary amounts to assist healing and give comfort.

Apple is one of my favourites, it is not only healthy, but lovely moist grated apple flesh is so refreshing and hydrating and is easier to digest than a whole raw apple when you are unwell. Stewed or baked apple with cinnamon helps restore the appetite and are simple first foods for those returning to eating after an illness. Fresh grated apple flesh helps diarrhoea.

Apricot fresh and dried apricots are fantastic during pregnancy and recovery from illness. This fruit is very soothing for the nervous system. Aside from eating the fruit plain, cooked with cardamom in a standard recipe (cobbler, tart, baked fruit, poached fruit....) is a great way to incorporate the benefits of the fruit. Home made juices are terrific.

Bananas these are really easy to digest and have natural antacid properties so are very mild on the stomach and digestive tract and can supplement medicines used to treat heartburn, and gastritis. This low GI food is tremendous for diabetics and for the prevention of adult onset diabetes. My favourite smoothie recipe is: one peeled banana, one cup of milk, pinch of cinnamon, two table spoons of natural yoghurt or vanilla icecream, and a litte squeeze of the honey bottle.... blend away. I have been known to blend the smoothie and then put it in the microwave to warm it up in winter to make it more appealing to the ailing.

Barley yes, the old pearl barley! Who can go past barley water for fever, and inflammation? Very soothing, very nutritious, easy to ingest, if the 'patient' won't drink barley water add barley to broth or soup recipes. Great for sore throats, body aches and pains, bladder conditions. Even dietary consumption can help heal skin conditions.

Black Pepper peppercorns are part of my traditional cold medicine - simply grind a few peppercorns (5-7 will suffice) and mix into a teaspoon of honey, and take the treatment three times a day for cold and flu. Do not give honey to infants, they are vulnerable to bacteria and botulism from honey.

Blueberry this fruit is good after fever when you are ready to eat again. Heals stomach ulcers and the whole digestive tract beautifully. Packed with antioxidants! Blueberries in muesli, fruit salad, smoothies, or pie are ideal. Blueberry and pear juice made yourself is fabulous and healthy.

Cardamom you should definitely have this in your spice rack, not only for the beautiful curries you can make, but the spice goes well with fruits that are baked or poached. Cardamom seeds are healing for the digestive tract, including diarrhoea and flatulence.

Carrot I would not go to a barbeque without eating raw carrot first - why? because this vegetable helps prevent listeria and salmonella poisoning. I would recommend raw carrot for pregnant women. Carrots also help the immune system in general, and can help lower unhealthy cholesterol levels. Carrot soup or juice is good for all of the above, and will help relieve diarrhoea and other digestive tract symptoms.

Celery eating the raw stalks or drinking fresh juice helps balance body fluids (this vegetable has an excellent sodium to potassium balance), I would drink the juice to prevent dehydration.

Chick Peas in the diet, chick peas assist the absorption of nutrients from other foods. Chick peas are great for conditions effecting the nervous system, are great during healing of muscle injury, and are a great source of plant based protein (the western diet relies too heavily on animal based protein).

Chilli ironically, you were likely raised with the belief that chillies cause ulcers, but they actually promote the release of secretions in the digestive tract which help relieve duodenal ulcers. Just another of those myths like not having dairy when you have a cold (the nutrients in dairy products are healing to the membranes in the respiratory tract).

Cinnamon is my favourite natural antiseptic and wound cleaner, but since we are here today to talk about edible medicine, I will stick to this - cinnamon is fantastic for the digestive tract, it will help restore appetite, aid digestion, and and stimulate blood flow to the stomach. The easiest ways to give cinnamon to the ailing are: in stewed or baked fruit, in smoothies, or in milk gently simmered over the burner. Don't forget cinnamon is a natural friend to the diet conscious - I have it in chai latte late in the afternoon when I am hungry and it prevents me from snacking.... how does it do this?.... by regulating your blood sugar levels!!! Yes really!

Coriander the seeds help lower blood cholesterol so make a good preventative measure for regular people. For those with a significant cholesterol condition commercial medicines or professionally prepared herbal medicines are still recommended. Coriander in the diet may help restore appetite and fight infection.

Cranberry the juice of this fruit is celebrated for its healing of the urinary tract, its content of fructose and other substances prevent bacteria from adhering to the membranes of the urinary tract and therefore is preventative medicine for cystitis and the prostate.

Cucumber I give cucumber slices or juice to the ill to prevent dehydration. Cucumber contains a lot of water, and with its manganese and sulphur helps manage the fluid balance. Cucumber is a great anti-inflammatory agent and is fantastic in the diet or applied externally for skin conditions.

Fig the food of life! Figs are great for preventing constipation, the fruit is consumed during colds and flu to ease sore throat and heal the respiratory system.

Garlic this is so obvious I was going to skip it altogether, but I just know you'll be reminding me that this is fabulous for the immune system and taken before hand will help prevent cold and flu. Garlic in the diet will also help prevent the wrong kind of cholesterol buliding up, and there are indications it may help prevent hardening of the arteries. Of course, the main problem with garlic is that we often consume it in vast amounts of olive oil - there is such a thing as too much of even the good oil!

Ginger another of our spices that has gone mainstream in medicine, I am sure by now you have heard of ginger for nausea whether it is caused by motion sickness, morning sickness, or is the result of illness, surgery, or a side effect of medicines prescribed. Ginger tea, ginger beer, and foods gently flavoured with ginger root will all make a pleasant form of edible medicine. Ginger in culinary use also aids in the digestion of meat, especially beef.

Grapefruit yes she's very sharp, but she's very healing! Fresh grapefruit and juice is a tremendous anitbiotic, boost to the immune system, bolster to the bones, and an aid to fat metabolism. You can make your bones stronger and healthier, keep your blood clean and stocked with the good cholesterol, and fight colds and flu with this fruit.

Horseradish eating horseradish is healing for the sinuses, helps hayfever, sinusitis, colds and flu, and it may help cool a fever (by generating persperation). Very good for the pancreas and liver.

Kale traditionally used to prevent bacterial infection or heal it. Great preventative medicine for the heart, and is being shown to have connection to preventing or healing oestrogen linked cancers (breast, ovarian etc).

Lemon again this is a great agent during colds and flu, I am sure you have heard of, if not tried a honey and lemon remedy. Like other citrus fruits, lemon helps the body make collagen which is essential to the health of skin and joints.

Lettuce my two favourite uses of lettuce are: eating a few leaves before a meal containing meat, this helps digestion; and eating a few leaves before bed to help with mild insomnia.

Nutmeg dietary use helps the digestive tract, can relieve diarrhoea, and is great in the regular diet of people who have rheumatism, arthritis, other inflammatory conditions, and is fabulous for the heart and circulation system, and can assist in the reduction of blood cholesterol levels. Of course eating a dessert containing nutmeg and then drenching it in cream is self defeating, so stick to yummy, natural recipes where the fruit and nutmeg are the star of the show - baked, poached, and stewed fruits are the best.

Oats mmmm I love rolled oats, they give me that healthy glowing feeling immediately because I know how good they make my body feel, mentally I get that head start just thinking about it. Oats are powerfully healing for the muscles, and that means your heart loves oats. Oats reduce bad cholesterol, heal muscle tone, help supply healthy energy and are therefore great for chronic fatigue syndrome and the recuperating, and of course you will have a healthy digestive system with a diet of oats. Oats help sooth the stomach, I eat porridge (Americans say oatmeal I think) when my stomach is burning, and also I am prone to false morning sickness when I get my period, and porridge is the first food I am able to eat and keep.

Paprika very high in vitamin C, this spice is a great stimulant for the immune system, and is great preventative medicine for disease and infection. My favourite recipe for paprika is Hungarian goulash.

Sesame Seed in the diet these will also help lower bad cholesterol. Very good inclusion in the diet for those experiencing anxiety and stress.

Star Anise exellent for digestive complaints and colic, helps promote healthy digestion, and is the secret ingredient in many cough remedies.

Strawberry excellent for high blood pressure, is a super source of vitamin C a powerful anti-oxidant, I would recommend strawberries above oranges for vitamin C and fibre. Herbalists bow to Culpepper, who says that strawberry is healing for the liver, and inflammatory conditions.

Thyme I would recommend thyme in soup or broth for throat infections, cold and flu, and healing after tonsilitis or even surgical tonsil removal.

Turmeric is great for the liver, gall bladder, heart, eczema, psoriasis, and period pain. My favourite use is in curry.

Zucchini culinary use is great for insomnia, heartburn and indigestion, gastro-enteritis, and is being researched for use in dietary control of diabetes.

and if you got through reading all that, well done, I think I know how you feel, I typed it after all! I have had to omit many, many, brilliant and healthy edible medicines, some for the purposes of brevity, some because they are complicated in terms of contraindications for use.... I wanted this to be simple and safe. I will definitely do other posts on this theme in the future.

If you need a recipe for a soup, main, dessert, juice, or smoothie, I am happy to share.

Cleaning out My Excess Wool.. buy any ball $1 each

2010-04-17T23:36:00.001-07:00

I've decided to clear out all my excess wool supplies, they are being added to my etsy store www.starzyia.etsy.com for a dollar a ball.

These are all commercial supplies from brands such as Cleckheaton, Panda, Moda Vera, and Sean Sheep, and are all in immaculate condition including the fact that they have been protectively stored without exposure to mothballs and other unpleasant odours and come from a smoke free home.

I have four different types added in the store already, and more to come as I sort through my craft closet.

Every wool has brought me joy and happiness, I hope the same for whoever is smart enough to scoop them up. I have knitted bags, cushion covers, coathangers, scarves, shawls, and all kinds of things, one of the wools is machine washable and knits up to look like chenille.

Please help me to stop hoarding my supplies, and pass this link on to anyone you know who creates with wool and yarn.

Mother's Day Earrings

2010-04-14T00:43:00.001-07:00

Above: Paris Patriot Earrings (also available Paris Butterfly Earrings), in my etsy store. These actually have the three colours of the French flag, the lucite towers are much redder, and the faceted bead is dark blue, with a white glass flower at the top of the arrangement.

Now for what I really wanted to show you, the earrings I made today, for Mother's Day, using new and vintage supplies of faceted czech glass, lampwork beads, and some gold dangles from fellow etsian and blogger Adya International.

These earrings were made much earlier this year also using vintage supplies from AdyaInternational, the large pink flowers are actually buttons and feature a pollen centre designed in the shape of a star.

I am offering free shipping around the world until May 10th, but please note that I recommend orders for Mothers Day be placed before April 25th for international, and May 3rd for Australia.

My favourite suggestions for mother's day this year are pink (I'm making up for all the years I was anti-pink, and I'm a pink ribbon fundraising junkie now!); also hearts; buttons - I think buttons are symbolic of care and attention, of nurturing and renewal - so I like button jewelry; and I am collecting charms for jewelry featuring scissors, thimbles, and other sewing and craft related items, as well as tea pots and tea cups. Of course you should take into consideration all the personal preferences and interests of the individual mother or grandmother in question. I'm also in the market for the perfect apron for my own taste, I have never worn an apron, I think I just want something gorgeous to hang in the kitchen!

See you soon!

Bluebirds and Butterflies Etsy Treasury

2010-04-12T21:48:00.000-07:00

I just had the opportunity to make a Treasury List on a theme I'd been hoping to create for a while, it is called Bluebirds and Butterflies, and I was a little bit cheeky and featured one of my pieces, but honestly I am so excited about the other creations I found while looking through Etsy. I really hope you will have a chance to visit it since I am yet to find how to put the treasury on this page (how do you do it?)

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=125664

There are some great pieces of bluebird and butterfly jewelry, glass garden ornaments, gift tags, photography.... plenty of beautiful iconic creations to enjoy.

Symbolic Gifts for Healing and Recovery

2010-04-09T23:58:00.000-07:00

To celebrate my happy news - mum has been given the all clear cancer wise and will be monitored for the next five years - I thought I'd share some of my favourite gifts for healing and recovery.

Amber I love the use of amber beads and crystals to promote health, and the most effective method is to wear a necklace made of amber.

Turquoise heals the heart and chest, I would wear a long necklace for this also.

Lapis Lazuli has powers over depression and the emotions, necklace, earrings, rings, or crystals placed in the room are all effective.

Aquamarine can be useful for healing the liver, jewelry and crystals are good and I have once seen a very beautiful aquamarine studded belt and buckle.

Citrine is as good as citrus fruits for healing - they both bring happiness and increased energy.

Abalone Shell is great for the heart chakra.

Copper is a healing metal for arthritis, rheumatism, and some disorders of the blood. In addition to copper bracelets and rings, copper ornaments are great and with an ornament you can double the symbolism by choosing the right animal, plant or other symbol to heal.

Comfrey Leaves I would tie two together with twine and slip inside the pillow case, to give peaceful dreams and optimism and energy upon waking.

Acorns these are a traditional sign of life, fertility, and immortality, so an acorn or an acorn charm would be great for healing and longevity.

Bench Seats in the tarot, benches mean pausing to examine the intracies of life, so giving a bench seat is giving the opportunity to reflect on and appreciate life, plus during recovery it is lovely to sit out in the fresh air.

In addition to these I would recommend reading my previous posts for animal and plant symbols as well as the use of colour to help maximise the healing potential of your gift. I also intend to do a post on the healing properties of common foods, herbs, and spices these are safe because they are edible and make a very enjoyable form of medicine or supplement to prescribed medicines.

Thanks to everyone who has contacted me via blog or email to ask about my mum and offer support, I could not be happier with the way things have turned out!

My Parents' 35th Anniversary

2010-03-28T22:40:00.000-07:00

Friday was my parents' 35th wedding Anniversary, and this photo was taken along the Mandurah foreshore after a small family lunch. No matter how many times I roll my eyes or tell them to stop bickering, and think no two people have less business being together than they do, at the end of the day, you can often see them holding hands while they watch television. So I am hoping that there will be a 36th wedding anniversary, and that mum sails through her surgery tomorrow and comes home to us soon.

Mum has a primary carcinoma in the sigmoid colon and is having an entire section of bowel removed, hopefully when this is done, they will discover the carcinoma is contained only in the membrane of the bowel where carcinomas begin, if not she may have to have chemo or radiation.

As a traditional healer, a person who believes in and uses herbalism, food as medicine, and other non harmful forms of medicine it horrifies me to think that mum will simply accept chemotherapy, but if she does I will have to be supportive. It horrifies me now that even after she asked me what she should eat to get strong and healthy before surgery, that she has done very little in the way of following these vital guidelines. She won't even go vegetarian one night a week, not only is she eating red meat daily but she eats sausages! bottled pasta sauce! deep fried fish and chips! all of these are foods that exacerbate her partial bowel obstruction. Not to mention before surgery and chemotherapy a patient should be eating a diet high in plant based proteins.

Energy enters the food chain through photosynthesis in plant leaves using chlorophyl, it makes the most sense to eat the plant with the good energy in it than to eat the cow that ate the plant! And it seems everyone who hears a diet suggesting high protein and low carb thinks immediately 'I will eat eggs and meat', plant based proteins people!!!! And carbohydrates are the only food that supplies the brain with energy, so eat low GI carbs as much as you want! Eat all the colours of the rainbow, leave white stuff alone! Don't eat the food that doesn't look like its original source!

Please consider the source of your fruits and vegetables carefully, eat as many organic as you can. It is mad, but true, that we eat vegetables and fruit because they contain anti-oxidants that protect us by preventing free radicals from oxidising in our body, but the vegetables we buy are doused in the chemicals that cause free radicals to form. The answer is not to panic, but to get smart, shop smart, grow as many natural foods yourself as possible, even if you start with a small mixed pot of herbs. If you do not have access to organic foods, buy a vegetable wash or visit Oprah's website she once featured an excellent do it yourself vegetable wash, that cuts through chemicals on fruit and vegetable skins.

Don't panic, but don't be idle, food is the essential medicine in life, whatever ailment you have can be helped or harmed by certain foods. Learn how to eat for life, I promise you it tastes good, and feels good, and taking care of yourself is the most fulfilling and uplifting thing in the world next to doing the same for your family.

I am not against taking essential pharmaceuticals, I take two medications myself, but I am using food, herbs, aromatherapy and other non harmful disciplines to do everything I can to prevent the terrible illnesses that have run in both sides of my family tree causing early death, so far, so good.

I am also eating to boost my iron levels and eating foods in isolation and in combination to allow for maximum absorption from my diet and from the iron infusion I had and may have to have again.

It is not up to me what happens to my mum, and what course of treatment she decides upon, but I do know that I will be feeding both my parents during this time and that gives me hope at least that they can be fit and strong as possible for whatever comes our way.

I wish you all every blessing of health and happiness, I hope that if you are aware of any ailments or any food habits that need review that you somehow find the inspiration to nourish yourself with good, healthy food.

Take care, and I will try and come back and give an update on mum as soon as possible!

News and New Creations

2010-02-28T16:21:00.000-08:00

Yes, it has been a long time since I have blogged, I have been thinking about blog and all my blog friends, but it has just seemed I have not had the energy or inspiration to create a post. So much has been happening (also not happening) and finally here I am. I've missed you!

Over this summer my low energy reached crisis point for me and I have ended up sitting in hospital getting an iron infusion, my first but probably not my last. For some reason my iron and ferritin levels are lower than ever before in my life, even when I was waiting for my endometriosis to be diagnosed and I had my period for a year (YES a year! I was one crazy, worried patient back then!). What should be a level of 15 is down to 6. So the plan is to get me feeling a lot stronger so I can get up in the morning and stay up all day (I have needed daily lie downs... bummer, I hate doing nothing, and yet I can't get up from those afternoon rests too easy either). I have to get a lot more iron in my system so I can have surgery later this year, and so that I can look after a family member who has a big challenge ahead of her with her own health.

I have used some of the time where I have needed to sit down and do something quietly to make my first crystal sun catchers... so here are pictures of my first two.

A gorgeous crystal snowflake was teamed up with some gorgeous clear and amethyst beads to make the catcher above.

Now this one is my favourite, but I am yet to see how the lucite flower stands up to sun exposure.... so I don't feel I can sell this one. I love the combination of clear and warm orange or apricot shades.

Now all I need is to get some more crystals in, I have only two remaining, one is part of my business supplies, the other is my own crystal, the most effective and dazzling crystal I have ever had so I can't bear to part with that one!

I hope all is well for you all, I will be visiting some blogs to catch up right now.... and I will post again as soon as I have something good to share

xoxox Starry

Flapper Girl Heaven

2010-01-23T23:26:00.000-08:00

I have just secured my very first opportunity to create an Etsy Treasury list, and have created a themed list called Flapper Girl Heaven. Its no secret I am totally infatuated with the flapper, and the Japanese version 'the new women'.

Come and see flapper and jazz age hats, dresses, pins, jewelry, art, boas, and more!

hhtp://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?.room_id+108057

I really hope my first list is a successful one, for me and for my lovely featured sellers, and I hope it will be the first of many enjoyable etsy treasuries.

My Quest to Identify this Goddess Charm

2010-01-22T00:26:00.000-08:00

Quite a few years ago, I bought a crystal suncatcher, and hanging off the very bottom of the creation was this goddess (almost 100% sure it is goddess not god - boobs!) which I removed and put aside.

I recently threaded it onto a bag or phone charm clip, and would like to sell it, but have had a terrible time trying to identify her. Most Hindu and Indian goddesses have more then one set of arms... though they are sometimes depicted with just two arms. Although I am familiar with the numerous goddesses and avatars, it seems there is no way to be certain who is depicted in this charm unless I created her myself! I have also considered that she may be influenced by Thai, or other far eastern cultures.

I thought she may be a depiction of Lakshmi with two arms, or perhaps Krishna, but I am not satisfied to guess.

If she can be identified I can include a lot of information about her otherwise.... all is up in the air.

Does anyone have any ideas about my mystery goddess?

Lovely Surprise from Jace Makes!

2010-01-20T20:01:00.000-08:00

Early this morning.... I got a beautiful surprise.... a parcel!

from my wonderful blog and etsy friend Jace, and inside was this beautiful handmade book mark, just like the gorgeous ones she creates for her esty store.

Mine has gorgeous butterflies and flowers on the stem, and a stunning array of beads leading to the crochet flower, I couldn't be more delighted!

I would love for you to visit Jace's blog here www.jacemakes.blogspot.com or at etsy www.jacemakes.etsy.com

Thank you so much Jace, I will use this book mark with love.

By the way the book I photographed here is a lovely book I got back in 1994, the Yearbook of Love and Wisdom, it has a quote, poem, or reading for every day of the year and gorgeous artwork. This one was compiled by Celia Haddon, but there are several of this type of book around.

Traditional and Symbolic Gifts for Brides

2010-01-14T16:32:00.000-08:00

Its no secret, my favourite gifts are symbolic gifts because they are more meaningful and unique, and my favourite occasion for symbolic gifts is the wedding. There may be many things a couple starting out in their married life may need to help furnish their home, but for me the most important gifts are those that may help them focus on their relationship and begin married life on a firm foundation. Here are some of my very favourite symbolic gifts for brides...

Bamboo this plant is believed in Chinese culture to represent perfect virtue, especially in gentlemen, a good token to keep a man faithful in marriage.

Ivy this plant is associated with fidelity.

Peonies represent happy marriage, so a bouquet of peonies would be a great engagement or bridal shower gift, and should also be considered for the bridal bouquet and other wedding flowers.

Lavender this herb is linked with love and fidelity and keeping dried lavender sprigs in the mattress is supposed to keep partners faithful.

Pommegranates are a symbol of abundance, fertility, and marriage, and have a strong feminine energy.

Honey traditionally a pot of honey is given to a new bride to sweeten her home life and bring good luck.

Lanterns outdoor lighting in the traditional carriage lamp or lantern design is linked with faith and fidelity as well as making a warm welcome for guests and members of the household arriving at night. Lanterns will keep the couple returning home to each other each night.

Of course the greatest gift and token of all is the wedding band given to the bride by her new husband, the ring is symbolic of eternal life, and the stones in an engagement or eternity ring will add their own symbolic meaning.
Pearls are symbolic of fertility, and wisdom.
Rubies are symbolic of the sun, and as a ring to bring mental clarity (a better gift for a student than a bride if you ask me), as a birth stone ruby is supposed to bring contentment.
Garnet is for constancy
Amethyst is for sincerity, virtue
Diamond is for innocence, some say for eternity
Emerald for love and success
Peridot is for married happiness
Sapphire is for clear thinking
Opal is for hope
Topaz is for fidelity
Turquoise is for prosperity

I hope you have enjoyed this post, I will continue with more symbolic gifts in the future.

New Year, New Venture! Yay for Artfire!

2010-01-11T23:03:00.000-08:00

Well I have some news.... if you have enjoyed any of my posts on symbolic gift ideas.... I now have a store on artfire.com that sells only symbolic and meaningful gifts.... and each gift's qualities and inspirations are explained to help you find the perfect gift for the special people in your life.

I still operate on etsy, but if this concept is successful I may take it over to my etsy store too.

I will still post free symbolic gift guides here on my blog, but there will constantly be new gifts and meanings featured in the artfire store to tide you over between posts, and it may help you to see how to maximise the potential of your gifts.

My store address is www.starzyia.artfire.com

please come and visit me and tell me if you like the concept of the store.

One feature of artfire that may interest my Australian friends, you can come and purchase in Australian dollars, that's right there is built in currency converter so you can know exactly how much you are spending. The site also sells in US and other currencies as relevant to the individual buyer.

The meaning of the two creations featured here is explained in their store description.

I am still loading stock, and if you need something particular please contact me I love to custom create for people.

I will post a new symbolic gift guide here this week... stay tuned, and have a nice day!

My Favourite Projects of 2009

2010-01-02T19:17:00.000-08:00

I was taking photographs for a beach themed gift and card set for etsy, and this is one of the shots I came up with. This is one of my favourite photographs I have ever taken and I hope to frame and exhibit it sometime this year when the opportunity arises. I love the colour, the shapes and textures, the glass bubbles, the dried sea foam...

Kashmiri Bracelet, the featured bejeweled beads are my favourite beads I have ever worked with, and I now have only two left.... it will be a sad day when I run out of these stunning handmade beads. This bracelet is still available on etsy.

Paris Butterfly Earrings, these vintage lucite eifel towers are part of the first shipment I ever ordered from my now favourite vintage supplier (no I'm not telling who!). The pewter butterflies and glass beads dress up the lucite pieces. Available on Etsy.

Mother Earth Necklace, this was one of two different coloured necklaces created using ceramic rose pendants. The other one, a blue rose, was created for my mother.

Finally, this one hangs framed in my dressing room, Adore Russian Dolls papercraft/mixed media collage. I had wanted for years to create a piece of art with russian dolls in it, and this year I finally made some paper patterns for the dolls after finding a printed scrapbook sheet at Chandon Craft.

So as I think about all the things I created last year, the difficulties and challenges, the excitement of finding great supplies, inspiration grabbing me at all times of the day and night.... I can't help wondering what this new year will bring.

New Year's New Leaves

2009-12-30T19:51:00.000-08:00

I have had some lovely glass leaves in my collection for a while, not sure quite how I would use them, but I got to thinking last night about the New Year and how many of us will be trying to turn a new leaf.

The earrings above have three different sizes of leaf, though spread out flat here, when hanging, the leaves often fit into each other, the trilogy of leaves in this way reminds me of harmony.

The leaves also remind me of my love for nature, my desire to live as 'green' as possible (environment wise), and how the youth and health of my inner child is renewed as often as the trees who lose their leaves, create new shoots, and then flourish again.

This pair is great for symbolising love in our life, how we must remember to renew our self love, to work on the loving relationships we have, and allow our heart to rise again and again.

These two pairs of earrings are both available in my Etsy store, I am hoping someone will love them for all that they represent.

So from my heart to yours, happy New Year, and I hope you find ways of reminding yourself of all that is good and kind that you need to share with yourself and with those around you, and be kind to this Earth.

My Top 10 Stocking Stuffers, 2009

2009-12-20T18:14:00.000-08:00

Its less than a week to Christmas but you still have time to pick up or create some great stocking stuffers. Here are my fave stuffers for '09.

For any age, male or female who have a desk..... I like the little desktop calendars, one date per page, pick your theme - cartoons, comedy, inspirational, word of the day.... just no more Bush-isms please, that is so passe now.

iTunes, Bigpond, or other music gift cards, c'mon who doesn't download music? and this way you are supporting legal downloads and cutting out the risk of catching a virus or malicious add ons from share files.

I always give my mum a set of christmas cards (in the old days store bought, now usually handmade) okay, she has to wait a year to use them, but they are a nice little holiday themed extra. If you have kids getting them to make a set will add sentimental value to the gift grandparents especially use them with pride. The cards shown above are so easy, I got some scrapbook paper, cut out a tree out of the paper (used that for another project) and used the cutaway for these cards, with rub on greetings and glitter stickers to finish.

This year I really like thongs (the flip flop kind) for stocking stuffers, as they are more trendy now then when I was growing up and I want to celebrate that! You can get so many great patterns and designs now. If you are living in the northern hemisphere, why not subsitute this stuffer with scarves, mittens, or woollen hats.

Carrying on with the summer theme, I love beach towels, there is a design for every personality and you're always looking for another clean, dry one, so a must have if you ask me!

Ornate photo frames are a favourite with me because they are so beautiful, and help cherish precious memories. Plus frames are especially handy when those holiday photos are printed.

I love bookmarks, I am a bit of a nut, I admit, I have quite the collection, and before I start reading each book, I select a different bookmark from the last, based on colour or subject matter, or vintage of book.... yes like I said nuts! But this is an easy gift for you to make or even help your kids to make. I simply select some patterned paper or printed cardboard, add any stickers or embellishments I want to use (rub on transfers are the best, the purple bookmark says 'enjoy life's moments'), then you laminate the bookmark. After it has cooled, I trim any excess edges, and punch a hole in the top of the bookmark. Then I like to string some beads on some strong thread or tiger tail and loop it through the hole. My favourite bookmark made recently (and shown below) features a vintage button that sparkles violet and green.

Essential oils have made my list this year, a little bottle of pure oil is a great gift for the girls (or a new age guy) it can be used in baths, diluted in massage, or to mix a unique perfume.

Its not christmas without candy canes, so at least one has to go into every stocking!

And, since I have gardeners to shop for, I always look out for packets of seeds, pretty gardening gloves, or gardeners hand cleaner (gorgeous products that really help get rid of the dirt, soften rough skin, and soothe skin breaks).

Perenniel Favourites I didn't put these in my top ten because I used them last year, but they are always a good fall back:

I love Darrell Lea mini bottles of boiled lollies, they are so elegant and cheery

Dusk melts, brilliant air fresheners and a source of aromatherapy. I can't use chemical air fresheners as they inflame my nose, so these are a big hit for me.

Soft toys for the kids.... christmas bears, elves, reindeer, or their favourite type of animal.... you will find something wonderful and I have never heard a kid say they have too many toys (their mother on the other hand.....)

Stationery sets - pretty notepaper, or cards, and envelopes packaged nicely, these are so classic.

Water Balloons, for the backyard summer games.... you might just have to come up with a truce or barleeze safety word for adults who don't want to get wet.

Christmas Greeting

Finally, I would like to wish you all a very merry christmas, I hope you will have a joyous and beautiful holiday season, and see the New Year in with health and happiness. See you soon xxxx Starry

oh and one holiday quote that pertains to giving "It is not what we give but what we share, for the gift without the giver is bare".

Symbolic Holiday Gifts

2009-12-15T16:19:00.000-08:00

Here is a new instalment in my symbolic gift series, themed on Christmas and Hanukah, so its not too late to find something meaningful, from the heart, and economic.

Reindeer represent wealth and good fortune, so a good gift for promoting prosperity. They also are a real heart warmer, I don't know too many people who don't feel affection towards Santa's trusty reindeer. You might find reindeer soft toys, card icons, tree decorations, or ornaments.

Holly prickly old holly is most closely associated with Easter as it reminds us of Christ's crown of thorns, but in European folklore, holly was planted to ward off bad spirits from the home, and in gardens was said to deter lightning strikes. I would give holly to cleanse the home and promote love.

Ivy represents eternal life and therefore resurrection, a fitting decoration for celebrating the birth of Christ. I have also previously mentioned that ivy promotes marital fidelity and harmony.

Mistletoe represents our Heavenly Father's love for us which endures even when we give no love or obedience in return - in this symbolism we are likened to the parasitic mistletoe. As well as for its religious symbolism, mistletoe may be given from parent to child.

Myrrh a precious gift brought to Jesus at the time of His birth, it is very healing so it might represent our ultimate healing and redemption, or could have been given to prepare Jesus for his own trials in life.

Frankincense is the finest incense, the white smoke that is produced while it is burnt represents both our prayers, and the souls of the righteous ascending to heaven. Frankincense is still today burned in church services and rituals. This gift represents Christ's loving sacrifice.

Candy Canes represents the shape of shepherd crooks and has thus been chosen as a christmas symbol because of our Lord, the Good Shepherd. It is said the red stripes represent His sacrifice and the white His virtue.

Acorns okay, they might not have a link to christmas, but in the northern hemisphere they are a great winter treat when toasted and I think they would make a great gift for women, they are a Celtic symbol of life, stregth, fertility, and immorality.

Bells represent joy and freedom, they call us to church, are used to express messages, and it wouldn't be a decent sleigh ride without them! Silver bells would be my first choice for christmas, thanks to the beautiful carol of that name. Gold and bronze bells look more like the bells used in churches and town halls.

Candles are symbolic of light - the light of life, wisdom, spiritual enlightenment, and inspiration. Candles are also central to the celebration of Hanukah, on each night of this Feast of Lights, another candle is lit on the menorah.

Menorah a seven branched candlelabrum, for Chanukah or Hanukah it is an eight branched candlestick to commemorate the reclaimation of the temple after it had been desecrated, there was not enough oil to keep the perpetual flame burning for more than a day, yet it was lit and continued to burn for 8 days until new oil was prepared ready for use, this is regarded as a miracle. I would give a menorah for faith, hope, virtue, liberty, and in association with the symbolism of light and candles.

Angels in religion, represent God, as his messenger bringing hope, guidance, and protection. What better gift than an angel for a christmas tree, or a small glass or crystal angel, even an angel pin seen frequently in card and gift stores.

Don't forget to share the meaning of your gift, and as for finding these symbolic gifts at this time of year they are everywhere. I would buy wreathes made up of the plants featured here, bells, charm bracelets, crystal or glass ornaments, tree decorations, candles, essential oils, frankincense, religious icons.... the possibilities are endless so start seeking these treasures!

My Favourite Etsy Shops

2009-12-03T00:19:00.000-08:00

I want very much to share with you my very favourite Etsy shops and sellers, hence this post. These are all tried and tested by me, and represent the very best in quality, value and originality in my humble opinion.

The dress above is a vintage Malaysian piece that I fell in love with at first sight, and thankfully I have come away with a great summer dress and a new friendship..... may I introduce Vintage Dove. Please visit www.VintageDove.etsy.com or while browsing etsy enter the seller name in the search box. Vintage Dove is a wonderful store for the fashionista and offers the highest quality of clothing, shoes, and accessories all with condition reports and everything you need to know before purchasing, including very thorough sizing information. Vintage Doves prices are terrific, but at the moment there is a 20% cashback via paypal refund on the total of your order.

Focus on the beret people! It is handmade by Celeste from Elephunks Trunk www.ElephunksTrunk.etsy.com or once again, type the seller name into search while shopping on etsy. I LOVE that Celeste upcycles sarongs into berets and hats. The store also features coin purses and headbands. My beret is pink brocade on black, and is very soft and shiny, I totally love it, and the quality of the handwork is fantastic. The value for money is again excellent, and with such fast and friendly service I will certainly be buying again in the future.

This is an origami bookmark made by fellow blogger and etsian Jacey. Jace's blog can be accessed via my blogroll on this page, and her shop www.jacemakes.etsy.com is filled with gorgeous beaded bookmarks, phone and bag charms, origami bookmarks, and ATCs... all are gorgeous, made with the utmost attention to detail, and are simply so gorgeous and great value that we should all be stuffing stockings with them. I am very lucky to have made friends with Jacey via blog and she is a wonderful etsy friend and business buddy, you won't go wrong ordering from Jace.

Oooh lovely right? This is a gorgeous Christmas charm bracelet made by Gwen of Raintree Atelier www.RaintreeAtelier.etsy.com you can also see the stunning Girl With Parasol earrings below. IT is no secret Raintree Atelier is my favourite for jewelry I wish I made. This shop is stocked with beautiful, vintage inspired jewelry using the best of materials including semi precious stones, crystals, and even 14K gold findings. I just purchased a pair of earrings made with the most delicate gold chain and Japanese tensha beads. Gwen is offering free shipping until December 15th, so it is not too late to get immaculately crafted and elegant jewelry.

One last shop, www.Britgaldesigns.etsy.com where I got my favourite tea cosy, featured previously in a blog post. This shop has the best value tea cosies handmade and they truly keep the pot hot!

And.... I am having a sale for my facebook fans, if you are not a fan of my business page there already, just click on the box on the right of this page, this sale features new stock at sale prices. If you are local, and can pick up your goodies, you pay Australian dollars and avoid shipping fees. If you are not local, never fear, I can add your favourites to etsy reserved just for you, and for these sale items I will cap my shipping for you whole order to $5 international and $3.50 for domestic.

Now please, go and explore the big wide Etsy world..... it is fantastic!

My Favourite Companion Books

2009-11-23T18:24:00.000-08:00

The weather is turning hot, and I have just put my back out.... my summer reading festival is about to begin early! I am not even going to wait until I can go to Perth to fill a box with new books, I am starting by reading some of my absolute favourite books, and this time I will read them in pairs, as every good book deserves a companion. The joy of reading books in pairs for me is that you get flow - one book leads to another, you don't leap from reading a book about mutant space creatures and then start reading a classic Jane Austen. You can compare and contrast, you can see things you might have missed considering on first reading it, and you have the joy of exploring both books to your best advantage.

I thought I would share my planned companion reading as it might inspire you, and also if you are looking for a gift for a book lover, it could be a good guide to select the companion book of a book you know they have loved.

So hear they are..... not necessarily in the order I will read them.

The Beautiful and Damned by F. Scott Fitzgerald and Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh. Perfect companions because they both explore the use and misuse of privilige and wealth, and are from the beginning evidently modern tragedies where you are waiting for the decline and decline of the pivotal characters. The sadness of beauty and talent wasted, of family expectations and disappointments and the struggle to find meaningful identity are what capture and hold my attention.

The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory and The Queen of Subtleties by Suzannah Dunn. Together these books perfectly capture the essence of Anne Boleyn, the historic figure I most resemble in character. I love her, even for all her flaws and as she turns her greatest triumph into disaster for herself and her closest connections, you see she had an innoncence that was belied by her temper and that it was her endless desire and that temper that ultimately played into the hands of her enemies and brought her to the scaffold.

Wild Lavender by Belinda Alexandra and The Bronze Horseman by Paulina Simmons, set in the same period of time, illustrating the hardships of war even for those who do not fight in it, these books show the Paris of WWII and beseiged Leningrad. Both have wonderful heroines with love stories that will have you begging the authors to stop torturing you and let the lovers be together and happy.

All The Names by Jose Saramago and The Book of Shadows by Carlos Ruiz Zafon. One is set in Spain, the other Portugal, although I cannot say for sure why I instinctively feel these books are companions, perhaps I will be able to say after I have read the two again, this time one after the other.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte and Mansfield Park by Jane Austen. Perhaps I see the characters of Jane Eyre and Fanny Price as companions because they were both raised by their extended family in unhappy circumstances and at the mercy of the good will of their keepers, while clearly being the moral superior of the other characters around them. Both books are teriffic examples of English literature and I could wish to have discovered Jane Eyre at a younger age instead of being forced to read Dickens Hard Times for school.

Empress Orchid by Anchee Min and Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden. Though one is set in China, and the other Japan, the heroines are united in their rise from obscurity and poverty to great privilige while documenting the end of historic eras - one as the last Empress of China (though this is historic fiction Empress Orchid was a real person), and the other as one of the last great Geishas before the fall out of WWII nearly destroyed that heritage.

Atonement by Ian McEwan and The Camomile Lawn by Mary Wesley. Both of these show the changed fates of a close knit family circle during WWII triggered by events that precede the declaration of war.

The Deep End of the Ocean by Jaqueline Mitchard and My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult, perfect companions because they explore painful family issues and choices where there are no clear right and wrong options and no easy way to resolve the crises to everyone's best interest.

Running With Scissors by Augusten Burroughs and The Book of Joe by Jonothan Tropper. Perfect companions for me because as a writer I relate to their struggle to use their own experiences without incurring the wrath of others, and to bravely face their personal history. Tropper's book is fiction and Burroughs is extraordinarily an autobiographical account of his journey from child to man.

so there we go, that is the journey I will be taking this summer, frolicking amongst my favourite characters and adventures, thinking about and digesting the deeper meaning of each, and as I pick up each one, giving it a welcome back hug, as I am now quite 'homesick' for these favourite books.

Starry's Angels.... easy project

2009-11-18T20:12:00.000-08:00

hello, please meet my new crew, Starry's Angels, my first christmas decorating project for this year. I am always looking for very easy to make decorations as I believe young families on a budget should make their own personal decorations and gifts, and build their own personal traditions.

So my Starry Angels are made of three different types of patterned paper, at $1.40 per sheet (and each sheet has left overs, saved for other ideas), cut into stars using a stencil. I made 2 large and 4 small-medium sized stars.

The angels are from a set of six stickers bought for $2.50 at Cost Plus, they have lovely wings which change colour as you move them in the light. They had very poor sticky patches on the back (too small, and some of them detach as you remove the sticker of the sheet), so I applied my own double sided tape. You might also use fabric glue or stainless adhesive if you have any on hand.

Finally, my angels hang from shiny pink ribbon, which can be inserted between the decoration and its backing (I did make some backing stars for two of my decorations which were made of single sided patterned paper, the rest had printed designs on the other side). If you are not making a backing piece, you can glue the ribbon ends on and then cover with a sticker or button to make your decorations look a bit smarter.

If you can't find the same stickers as me, go out and look for something that appeals to you, the sticker is the centre piece, find this first, then find papers that will coordinate.

Oh by the way I didn't mention the cost of ribbon as mine is reclaimed remnants from other projects, but if you need to you can get a reel for under $2.

Don't forget these can make decorations for your home, and also gift sets for grandparents etc in a nice box or baggy.

Symbolic Giving second in series

2009-11-09T01:37:00.000-08:00

Bear with me my oldest readers, this is the second in my series of symbolic gift posts and if you were with me at big blog you will find this familiar, but I want to go right through from my first to my last and new symbolic posts too.

I love the concept of symbolic giving, because it is so meaningful, and usually can be achieved simply, and economically (though your budget is up to you) a simple bloom in a box can be perfect, especially when you include a note or message explaining the meaning.

So without further ado, here are the next set of symbolic gifts:

Dragonfly the lovely dragonfly is symbolic of strength, peace, and prosperity, and nearly always is associated with eternal life and the celebration of life as a spiritual journey. The dragonfly has a fascinating life and is associated with both air and water so is a good gift for people born under air or water signs.

Butterflies are also symbolic of life metamorphosis, transformation, and hope. A good remembrance of how death is only our gateway to immortality, a transformation to a new way of living or existing. Butterflies are joyous because they represent resurrection and have such a happy, busy way of life.

Fireflies are linked with inspiration and creativity. A great gift for students, artists, and scientists in need of direction and energy as well as confidence to pursue dreams and ideas.

Ladybirds are love symbols and bring good luck. I have always loved ladybirds but more so since I played Mary in a nativity play and on the night, a ladybird was on the face of the baby Jesus doll, and I was filled with awe and wonder as to how it came to be there - we were deep indoors on a premisis without a garden, where did this little lady journey from? Since then I have had a ladybird charm put on my bracelet. I think ladybirds are perfect for a gift between two female friends.

Bees represent virtue and honesty (as the worker bees lead a sexless life!) and they evoke images of selfless toil and industrious labour. Bees are good for promoting happiness.

Rainbows are symbolic of a bridge between heaven and earth, also of God's mercy towards man (a sign from God after the flood of Noah's time). Rainbows are great for love and acceptance, and for hope. Even a rainbow coloured silk scarf or garment would serve this symbolism.

The sun represents masculine energy and also glory. A sun symbol would be a great gift for a man, and a spectacular gift between father and child in either direction.

The moon is the symbol of the soul (from astrology) and is a feminine symbol. I think the moon is particularly healing for women, so consider it for a health promoting gift for that special someone.

Flowers in general are representative of life and beauty. For special meaning seek both the colour and the flower type symbolism and settle on the perfect gift.

Camellias represent China, especially the southwest where the flowers are revered. As someone with access to a large quantity of perfect camellia blooms (my mother is just the best with this plant!) I would box a single bloom, or present it in a small dish floating in water. A plant would of course last longer but requires work. For my mother's 70th birthday I arranged camellias on her cake. Camellias are linked also with serenity, and modesty.

Amaryllis means success in battle or in overcoming a trial, good for people who are enduring an ordeal, also for students facing exams.

Sunflowers represent affection, admiration, adoration, and are very positive with a warm energy. I think these are perfect for golden haired girls.

Tulips are associated with opportunity and advancement, and of course Holland. I would recommend tulips for women trying to carve out a successful career, or for courage and confidence in any recipient.

The daisy is symbolic of purity, virtue, and innocence. They suggest faith and steadfast virtue. Day's Eye daisy never looks upon the darkness but holds over til the rise of the sun, a perfect example for us to never despair, and to turn from temptation.

Hyacinths mean reincarnation and are good for memorial gardens and for the grieving.

Apple Blossom the first branch of apple blossom should be cut and laid inside the window sill if there has been illness in the household. Apple blossom is pure, and beautiful as well as refreshing.

The Willow tree is associated with healing, visions, and dreams, and is the natural origin of aspirin (salicylic acid). I would give willow to those who need to stop mourning and begin living again.

Pomegranates are a symbol of abundance, fertility, and marriage. They possess a very strong feminine energy.

Bamboo in Chinese culture denotes perfect virtue, especially in men. I would plant bamboo or keep a 'lucky bamboo' plant if I were getting married.

on a personal note, one of my creations was selected for A Merry Christmas! Etsy Treasury, this page expires on the US date of Tuesday 10th, to view my work in the page visit
www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=92459

thank you!

Green Giving

2009-11-02T23:15:00.001-08:00

Its time for me to sing the praises of green giving again, and this post is part craft economics and part environmental good sense.

First of all most people love to present their gifts as nicely as possible, and some gifts even requrire a certain amount of packaging, the trick is to turn thrift and green living into beautiful gift trimmings.

The photo at top of this post shows a large maxbox that has been turned into a giftbox rather than thrown into recycling.... if I didn't keep my used boxes (whether match, chocolate, or other) I would be running around looking for a store bought one. Store bought gift boxes can be nice, but they are a green nightmare, they have likely been transported vast distances which is a green no-no, they are mass produced so aren't great energy and pollution wise, not forgetting the health and wellbeing of the employees which may be not better than a sweat shop..... and often imported items are doused in chemicals before their journey (Yes you should wash your new clothes, linens, and anything else that you can).

This box has been covered with a simple piece of coloured paper using green friendly paste, and then an offcut of saved ribbon and an iron on transfer star applied around the middle.

Inside my gift box are a pair of earrings I recently made up using vintage lucite sea horses, I like to find and collect vintage pieces as they make the jewelry rarer, and I think it is better than letting the pieces go to waste, and means I am not endorsing more mass produced beads and findings. When I do buy new beads I often purchase from a lovely lady who has her own family business of a small glass studio, a very satisfying experience as I know the circumstances surrounding the production meet my green standards.

I have preached in very early posts, the value of keeping every piece of trim and ribbon that comes your way.... I will rescue any amount of offcut ribbon even wrinkled and creased stock as it is a simple matter of giving them a light iron and they are as new again. I have even taken ribbon with stain on it and covered with embellishments.... I often use embellishments anyway so at least the ribbon isn't going to waste. Above are some of the saved ribbons that fill my ribbon box.

I admit, I love cut flowers, but I detest florist shops.... so much waste, so many flowers imported from great distances because they are out of season or don't suit the climate.... If I can't get to the flower markets I will usually pick fresh flowers from my garden, yes they will die in time, but it helps stimulate new flower production out in the garden. But it is true that one of my favourite green gift tips is to give a stunning photograph of flowers that can be mounted or framed and lasts forever.

It is easy to achieve a lovely close up of flowers - they don't move except in high winds - the camera is point and shoot, I have a macro lens of 1cm which I admit puts me at advantage but I have always managed to get good shots even before my current camera. You can look at my flower pictures via my flickr link on the right of this blog page, and while in flickr why not get even more inspiration from the flickr group 'flower book' these are extremely high quality often professional photographs.

Any way I hope you are finding out, or remembering, how fun it can be to give green friendly gifts, and they are above all gifts from the heart.

Spring Racing Fashion - don't forget earrings!

2009-10-28T16:28:00.000-07:00

When I watch the spring racing fashion on the fields (as I do anually because it INTERUPTS the horseracing!) I see people name drop dress designers and milliners, but no one ever refers to their earrings!

Some girls aren't even wearing earrings at all!

I don't understand this as you can get a unique handmade pair of earrings for far less than a unique hat.... or the two can be used to perfectly compliment each other.

Here are some of the spring fashion pieces I have created.....

Enchanted Garden Earrings above, a variation on the chandelier earring featuring bejeweled flowers and raspberry and lemonade drop beads.

My Lovelies (lord help me I was stuck for a name!), these feature my hot tip for fashion colours especially racing fashion - champagne! Champagne for everyone! I also really love the top bead which is amethyst and gold foiled glass.

Love Leaves..... these silver leaf charms and glass flowers are great for spring and summer.

But please, don't stop here, pop over to Etsy, not just to my store (though you are always welcome!) go to etsy.com and look up jewelry, shoes, hats, fascinators, headbands, hair clips and silk scarves..... you will find yourself in paradise!

My fave at the moment is Raintree Atelier (try typing the seller name in the search box) for jewelry I wish I'd made!

see you soon, Starry

From My Closet: T shirt Follow Up

2009-10-22T21:56:00.000-07:00

Here is my promised tshirt follow up, this time featuring some favourites from my own closet, all affordable fashion gift options (really, truly, I am a real cheap chic girl).... So the shirt above is one I picked up at Kmart for under $10, it is a sleeveless black vest type shirt, and I embellished it with two button flowers. There is good news and more good news: 1st, this is an easy project for you or your kids to make, simply use tailors chalk to draw the outline and then fill it in with buttons. 2nd, I am now taking orders for custom shirts like this and others in my Etsy store, so tell me the type of tshirt, the colour, and the motif you want..... and I will get your gift underway. I recommend hearts, stars, flowers, smiley faces and other icons that are easily identified by the eye. Cost depends on where I source the shirt, and then the amount of time and buttons used, and shipping.

This is a favourite summer shirt though I only bought it at the start of this year in Susanne Grae's new year clearance sale..... I love the cut of the shirt and the embellishment, and the lovely sleeves (pity can't see in this pic!). Definitely worth heading to SG's every season and checking the racks, I never pay more than $20 for any single item, often a good deal less, and fashion clearances are fantastic opportunities to score a lovely gift for someone.

Knit or Go Home shirt, variation on the Jolly Roger, was originally designed by the wardrobe lady for Lorelai (Lauren Graham) in the Gilmore Girls tv show..... now can be purchased from cafepress.com as can many other Gilmore Girl merchandise. I am waiting to wear this to the annual craft fair, but it gets worn a lot and gets a lot of second and even third looks. The shirt comes in a number of different colours, and shirt styles so price varies, and there is shipping, but sometimes its worth a bit more money if you can afford it and want something near and dear to the recipients heart. Definitely as I have said before, a company I would vouch for, they are excellent.

Now this one will be hard to track down as I have had it since 2000 or 2001, it was purchased in a surf shop in Fremantle, it was under $20 and I have included it A) as a favourite and B) as an example of unusual pieces you cand find and snap up if you apply yourself.

And finally, here I go again..... trusty old Kmart for this long sleeve boat neck top shirt, that came out a few years ago when patterns over striped fabrics were the rage..... I am still wearing at times, a favourite never goes out of style in my eyes.

And yes, my clothes do last a long time..... because I probably have too many so they each don't get worn as frequently and take over 10 years to wear out..... I am my own best vintage fashion supplier haha!

Just So You Know..... my friend Jade and I have started another blog called Just So You Know.... where we (hopefully) comedically diss, complain, and critique the things we observe in our daily lives, the title of the blog comes from the way we frequently start our sentences...... ie 'just so you know, yada yada yada'. I am having a problem finding how to load Jade's profile to that blog without altering my profile for these two other blogs I have...... grrrr can anyone help?

and just so you know..... I am going to be here a lot more now, and during this long time away from blogging I have come up with a rough plan for what I'd like to feature on the blog. I was thinking along these lines:

Tuesday: tutorial day (how to, projects, advice etc on various themes)

Thursday: inspirations (find what you are looking for, by finding out what you are looking for, with help by seeing what I have been buying, what I have been making, and what I already own)

Sunday: soul day.... giving.... the larger picture.

I hope this sounds good to you, I really appreciate your understanding and patience with my long absence not just from my blog but yours too, thanks everyone, xxx Starry

Christmas Stock 2009

2009-10-18T17:26:00.000-07:00

Long time no blog, I know! My 77 year old father fell and broke his hip, and nearly died while in hospital, but here I am managing to get a small Christmas stock together for my Etsy shoppers. I know the last post I did was on tshirts, and I promised to follow up on that and on symbolic giving, I will..... promise!

The tags above are from a set called Ruby Red Christmas Tags, set of ten, navy blue front with cream backing for easy use (to write on) this set is united by use of ruby red foiled paper and ribbon, as well as gems, and features snowflakes, christmas trees, and birds.

Above: sample of a free set of tags.

Every jewelry item purchased from my Etsy store is accompanied by a free set of Christmas gift tags, the tags are automatically added to your order and are selected randomly from my available stock. So just sit back and the tags will come to you!

Below: sample of a free set of tags.

This set (above) is for sale in my Etsy store and is listed as 'Bold & Beautiful Tags'. A set of 8 hanging tags decorated with either pink champagne gems or felt and plywood icons in tree or star designs.

And here is my model gift using a tag from my Ruby Red set.

There are only two sets of cards for sale in my store this year, but every order over $35 comes with a free pair of luxury cards handmade by me.

Lots of new jewelry in store and waiting to be put in store, so keep visiting me here, at Etsy, flickr, and my facebook business page for more opportunities to find that very special item you want for yourself or a loved one.

I will post the follow up tshirt post this week, and visit your blogs soon!