Thursday, April 22, 2010

EARTH DAY!

Had to do a quick shout out for the official "Earth Day" today, even though to be truly green, Earth Day is everyday. I don't reuse toilet paper or chew gum more than once, but I do turn taps and lights off and pull plugs from the wall on many appliances & lamps when I'm not using them. I monitor my thermostat constantly and make changes when needed. I use my blinds for heat/cold efficiency on hot days and cold nights-it's amazing what a difference it makes. The new windows we put in last year are proving to be worth the investment according to our power bill. I love to hear things my daughter has learned about being green from school. Their generation is much more educated and socially conscious than we ever were at that age on such things. Now it is officially cool to be green. These glass tile pendants are adorable to wear and make a statement. I have more on my site as well. They are the perfect gift as a TY for anyone working on a "green" project. $10 (includes a 24" ball chain of your color choice that can be cut to any size).

Saturday, April 10, 2010

Grit and Determination

Just got an order for one of my most popular running necklaces from my GOTTA RUN collection (pink is the most requested color). Her husband was ordering as a Mother's Day gift for his wife. He told me that she wasn't always a runner. She had joined Weight Watchers and lost 50lbs. and now runs 5K's. I find that inspiring and just plain awesome! It just goes to show you that you should never doubt yourself when you have a big goal like this. It CAN be done with sheer grit and determination, consistency, discipline, patience and support from friends and family. The end result is life-changing in so many ways.

Someone at my gym once told me a quote that stuck with me. "When you're young, you sacrifice your health for wealth (no time to exercise-too busy at work). Then when you're old, you sacrifice your wealth for health." (insteading of enjoying your later years in good health, all your retirement money goes to medical expenses). Sadly, I've seen this happen too many times. It only serves to inspire me to try to keep myself in good health. And it's not always easy. Having a set time of day for exercise is crucial to success. If you have the appt. (on your calendar) it will happen. (at least most of the time). I used to work with a guy who would still go to the gym even when he was sick just to keep his workouts on track. I can't say I've done that, but I admired his discipline. Turn off the TV and put the chips away. Tie your shoe laces and at least go outside for a walk and some fresh air! Now, I've gotta run.........and make this necklace.

Thursday, April 1, 2010

New is Back

Hello Friends, I'm enjoying Spring Break with my family and really trying to absorb how beautiful the newness of Spring actually is. Color is everywhere with new blooms, the trees are greening up, children are playing on playgrounds again (mine included), I am enjoying after-dinner walks with my husband before the sun sets, and the great conversation that comes with it. I see baby lambs and calves by their mothers-a precious time. My husband just had a touch-up lasik eye procedure done and is wearing shades indoors, looking cooler than Ray Charles at the piano. I'm also working on some new designs for my glass tile pendants - Summertime in Paris, Best Friends (sets), Military designs and Peace Signs. They are super cute and I will post them as soon as I can. The seasons are fleeting, so enjoy every moment.