tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46458063496933038572024-03-13T17:20:47.428-07:00Designs by JenaiDesigns by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-37788303399754219972010-08-26T17:13:00.000-07:002010-08-26T17:16:04.806-07:00A Pile of Hats, Hats, HatsCan't get enough of making hats! This is what I've been doing during my spare time over the summer. They are so yummy. Who says winter has to be about wearing dark colors? Obviously not me.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THb-PIyUMQI/AAAAAAAAAKc/wKdIEOmu9pQ/s1600/summerpile1+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THb-PIyUMQI/AAAAAAAAAKc/wKdIEOmu9pQ/s320/summerpile1+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THb-Yfrnk8I/AAAAAAAAAKk/-QaO9N7VWO0/s1600/summerpile2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THb-Yfrnk8I/AAAAAAAAAKk/-QaO9N7VWO0/s320/summerpile2.jpg" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THb-hTb9uOI/AAAAAAAAAKs/rwLjiclEBaE/s1600/koigokuryon1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THb-hTb9uOI/AAAAAAAAAKs/rwLjiclEBaE/s320/koigokuryon1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THb-3I4symI/AAAAAAAAALM/kW5QK6-bi-8/s1600/unisexhat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THb-3I4symI/AAAAAAAAALM/kW5QK6-bi-8/s320/unisexhat.jpg" width="272" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THb-yW8tcDI/AAAAAAAAAK8/Cjq468ZKPx0/s1600/ltrainbow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THb-yW8tcDI/AAAAAAAAAK8/Cjq468ZKPx0/s320/ltrainbow.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THb-rwovLVI/AAAAAAAAAK0/H2FgjLewZqs/s1600/darkrainbow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THb-rwovLVI/AAAAAAAAAK0/H2FgjLewZqs/s320/darkrainbow.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THcDrz9LcuI/AAAAAAAAALU/c9g3ReXgbRQ/s1600/pinkandbrown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THcDrz9LcuI/AAAAAAAAALU/c9g3ReXgbRQ/s320/pinkandbrown.jpg" /></a></div>Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-70164769709312337002010-08-25T14:22:00.000-07:002010-08-25T14:22:03.176-07:001st completed pair of fingerless glovesYeah boy! This is my 1st successful completion of fingerless gloves with thumbs. They aren't perfect but they aren't too bad either. I believe my niece who requested green and purple things for her arms will like them at least. She's four, she knows what she wants, and her auntie is happy to make them for her. Now the big decision will be, do I give them to her now or wait until Christmas? A matching hat is in the works as we speak and maybe a scarf if there is enough yarn left over.<br />
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I just need this Florida weather to cooperate and cool down soon so she can use the set when she gets them. Ok, I just want the hot weather to stop! I can't take any more of this nasty heat. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THWIv7-Y2yI/AAAAAAAAAKU/EOdiMMIzBcQ/s1600/IMG_0935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/THWIv7-Y2yI/AAAAAAAAAKU/EOdiMMIzBcQ/s400/IMG_0935.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-70112427981070945892010-07-17T06:09:00.000-07:002010-07-17T06:09:50.712-07:00My Lil' Hero Journal ProjectEver been waken from your sleep with an idea and couldn't go back to sleep because your mind just kept throwing ideas at you? This happens to me fairly often, but this time around I decided to go ahead and get up and act on that idea. I am calling it the My Lil' Hero Journal Project. <br />
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So often as parents we here or say negative things about our children or others that we see in our lives. We hear that ALL teenagers are terrible, disrespectful, moody, undisciplined, lazy, and I could go on. Two years old, you know the saying "Terrible Twos". Many times our acceptance of these ideas become our reality due to the fact that allow ourselves to accept these as truths and expect these actions from our children. But, what happens when we refuse to accept and expect only the best? What happens when we tell our children on a daily basis that the bring us joy and gladness? What if we tell them that although others may say and do some of the things that may appear normal for their age, that we are not accepting or tolarating those behaviors and give them examples of what they do in their daily lives to prove those myths incorrect? I'll share with you a bit of my own personal experience with this and how it relates to the My Lil' Hero Journal Project.<br />
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This is not to brag or boast about my abilities as a parent, but more to give thanks to my God, my family, my friends, and my church family for the support, guidance, wisdom, examples and mentorships during the last 16 years that I've raised my son as a single mom. My Lil' Hero (he's not so little anymore) is my son Alex. No, he is not perfect, who is, but I can say with tear filled eyes of joy (member of the crying club) that he amazes and inspires me each and everyday. He is a young man that looks beyond himself, is not boastful, he is caring, loving, respectful, disciplined, hardworking, funny, not materialistic, and he is my protector. These are just a few of the qualities that he possesses. I love to watch him interact, teach or mentor the youth that he works with in the young marine program, in karate, or in a volunteer position. He is so talented in staying patient, knowing when to be firm, when to have fun, and when he needs to have some one on one time to counsel one of the youth. He does this with youth of all ages, through young marines they are ages 8 - 18 but, he has younger cousins that benefit from this same ability. All I can say is that from the day he was born he changed my life for the better, I have enjoyed being his mom and even his friend. I know, they say you can't be your child's friend you're their parent, but I think you can find that balance and teach them where to draw the line as well as know for yourself the limits. <br />
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I could go on all day about my hero but, I want to talk about the journal and my vision. I plan to start a journal dedicated to writing to Alex about something he did in a particular day that was an example of why he is my hero. At the end of the week or other designated time, I will share it with him. My goal is to start today and end December 31st. I am going to also give a blank journal to my 2 sisters and mother and ask them to do the same for each of their children. For my mom, I thought she might like to journal about her grandchildren and share it with them whenever she chooses. <br />
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Why am I sharing this with you? I would love to spread this project around the country. I want to see how far this project can spread and here about your Lil' Heroes. If you are interested, please read below for more information on how to participate.<br />
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1. Send me an email letting me know you want to participate in the My Lil' Hero Journal Project. I would like to keep a running count/list of where this project finds itself.<br />
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2. Share with me your stories as short or long as you like about a child you know under the age of 21 that you consider a hero. Doesn't have to be your own child and you can change their names for their privacy.<br />
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3. Share the journal with your hero on a regular basis, daily or weekly. Don't let too much time go, the point is to let them know that they bring you joy and gladness. Be honest and sincere when writing. Try to catch something at least once a day that is an example or just journal your thoughts as they arise, don't feel that you have to make up anything, just keep it real.<br />
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4. Allow me the opportunity, the honor of sharing your stories on my blog, and the potential of moving this project even further. I'll discuss this in more detail as I work through it and see how this project is running.<br />
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5. Pass this post on to others in your family, community, to your friends and blog about it, mention it on facebook, twitter, etc. Help me spread the word. <br />
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My mind is filling up with ideas on how I can expand this and I share those at a later time. I am really looking forward to hearing about all the wonderful things that our youth are doing to live as hero's in our world. Too often they don't know that they are our heroes and it's time to let them know. You may have a foster child in your home right now who has experienced things in their life that no human should endure, but has been able to overcome those oppositions, maybe you have a child who has a physical or mental disability or health problem but they haven't let it rule them, share these stories.<br />
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I have a little friend age 4, she's been adopted by the most wonderful family, and she inspires me every time I see her. She was born without arms and has had many surgeries on her back, but that girl has an incredible spirit. There isn't much of anything that she can't do or won't try doing. I love to hear her mom tell how the daughter paints her mom's nails, using her toes and feet. That is just one example of the many ways she shows she is not enabled but able to do what she puts her mind to doing. There are several other youth that I could talk about that fill me with pride knowing them and joy watching them grow. I am sure you can say the same thing.<br />
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So, if you would like to join my in this project, either leave a comment here and your email so that we can communicate more as this project grows or you can send me an email directly at designsbyjenai at gmail.com.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TEGpH0Ok1zI/AAAAAAAAAKE/d-ccvvUmVHw/s1600/DSCN1170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" hw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TEGpH0Ok1zI/AAAAAAAAAKE/d-ccvvUmVHw/s640/DSCN1170.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Found these at Michael's for $1.00</div>Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-87873174843125816082010-07-16T19:35:00.000-07:002010-07-17T04:56:06.044-07:00The creative juices are flowingHelloooo creativity, welcome back. It feels so good to get back into the mode of pushing my creative thinking to a new level and discovering new ways of expressing myself. Found a tutorial on how to manipulate my photos into what reminds of the images you would see looking into a kaleidoscope, but are referred to as mandalas. For a little Friday evening fun, I decided to give it a try and I am sharing with you my first one. It's not perfect, but I do think it is pretty cool and colorful. You know me, life just isn't the same if it isn't full of color.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Hope you enjoy looking at it as well. Feel free to let me know what you think.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TEEVpFGLKjI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/KrA3Ji9mAHA/s1600/lotus+mandalaweb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" hw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TEEVpFGLKjI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/KrA3Ji9mAHA/s320/lotus+mandalaweb.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-45987087194175676512010-07-15T18:06:00.000-07:002010-07-15T18:07:14.119-07:00I'm moving and I'm changing my name!Decided to finally make the move, on Etsy that is. When I first registered with Etsy I did the normal newbie thing and created a user name not realizing that if I ever opened a shop I would be stuck with my user name being the Name/Address for my online shop. Well, jcollins16 just didn't jive with me. So, after some quiet time in the shop, meaning me being lazy and not posting in new items in a while, the old items have expired. This gave me the opportunity to go ahead and re-open a new shop with the name I've been advertising, Designs by Jenai. <br />
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I plan to share in my shop my creative interest in the world of nature photography. Pictures that I capture in my everyday life that fill me with joy and that I think are beautiful or interesting. Of course these are through the eyes and lens of a complete amateur just having fun and testing my limits in the world of photography.<br />
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Knitting as you know has become another love in my life. No doubt I will be adding items made by my novice hands, but made with lots of happiness. Hopefully no one will mind that some items may have been carried to the dojo, on travels by car/plane, and any other place that gives me the opportunity to spend some down time knitting. <br />
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The shop isn't ready for visitors just yet, but when it is, I will make an announcement and open with a prize give-away. I am counting on everyone to help spread the word when the time comes.<br />
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Be on the look-out for the new <a href="http://www.designsbyjenai.etsy.com/">http://www.designsbyjenai.etsy.com/</a>!!Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-20721364189031158472010-07-02T18:33:00.000-07:002010-07-02T18:33:57.715-07:00Show and TellHappy Friday! Not much to say today, but had a few pictures of some of my most recent work both on and off the needles. HATS!! They are so fun to make, I just can't stop.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TC6RnkB7kbI/AAAAAAAAAJc/aX9W1Wxwrok/s1600/DSCN1021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TC6RnkB7kbI/AAAAAAAAAJc/aX9W1Wxwrok/s320/DSCN1021.JPG" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TC6RwpjzISI/AAAAAAAAAJk/90wn1V4L3Qc/s1600/DSCN1025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TC6RwpjzISI/AAAAAAAAAJk/90wn1V4L3Qc/s320/DSCN1025.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TC6R2hv32SI/AAAAAAAAAJs/1Va3LsTRvaE/s1600/DSCN1027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TC6R2hv32SI/AAAAAAAAAJs/1Va3LsTRvaE/s320/DSCN1027.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TC6R9Zy4RbI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/Ojs7eivoRzI/s1600/DSCN1030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TC6R9Zy4RbI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/Ojs7eivoRzI/s320/DSCN1030.JPG" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Ok, remember the song and game - One of these things does not belong with the others? Well, the last one is a shot taken on a short walk with my son this evening. It was just so bright and cheery, a nice photo to end the day. Have a wonderful and safe Independence Day weekend.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-27648603549869979002010-06-23T17:05:00.000-07:002010-06-23T17:05:01.032-07:00Wednesday Wonders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TCJXMpJAkPI/AAAAAAAAAJU/sXOqyxA4_zI/s1600/double+rainbow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" ru="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TCJXMpJAkPI/AAAAAAAAAJU/sXOqyxA4_zI/s640/double+rainbow.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
Confession time, this picture was taken yesterday as I was leaving my office, but I'm sharing it with you today, Wednesday. I am such a big kid when I spot a rainbow. Sighting a rainbow is so exciting but to catch a double rainbow is extra special. Wanted to share my little treasure with you. Do you have a little something that most people might take for granted but gives you a lot of joy and excitement? What is it? Is it catching the scent of jasmine as you walk or drive through a neighborhood, seeing butterflies dancing around in your yard or maybe just hearing someone special laugh? Feel free to share with me.Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-47145284621276555792010-06-11T13:03:00.000-07:002010-06-11T13:05:43.455-07:00Luck of the Irish Scarf<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TBKVYiTBBaI/AAAAAAAAAJM/QvlpVMnc0D0/s1600/DSCN0615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TBKVYiTBBaI/AAAAAAAAAJM/QvlpVMnc0D0/s320/DSCN0615.JPG" /></a></div>This beautiful yarn was given to me by someone who thought about me on her trip to Ireland. It is so beautiful. The pictures don't do it any justice. The colors make me think of a lush, green field sprinkled with dots of wild flowers. <br />
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As soon as I saw the yarn I knew I wanted to knit something that I would be able to treasure for a very long time. Although I really like making hats, I don't wear them, but I would wear a scarf. After doing some searching and test knitting I decided on this great, simple pattern that can be found <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/one-row-handspun-scarf">here</a> on ravelry or <a href="http://www.yarnharlot.ca/blog/archives/2006/10/12/one_row_handspun_scarf.html">here</a>. I think it really does a nice job of showcasing this handspun yarn, it's texture and colored flecks.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TBKVS4Dj9UI/AAAAAAAAAJE/MY4yAdGAEn4/s1600/DSCN0612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/TBKVS4Dj9UI/AAAAAAAAAJE/MY4yAdGAEn4/s320/DSCN0612.JPG" /></a></div>Some people collect keychains, I think I would like to collect yarn and use it to create a collection of scarfs from around the world. So, friends the next time you travel and you think of me, feel free to bring me back a lovely ball of yarn from that location made by a local person. Bring back two and I'll make something for you and me. :-DDesigns by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-58752307120154256512010-05-25T07:22:00.000-07:002010-05-25T07:22:40.590-07:00A little Tuesday Inspiration<embed allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" flashvars="config=http://www.boredville.com/xml/vid_conf.cfm%3Fobj_id%3D32304" height="406" src="http://www.boredville.com/swf/player-licensed.swf" width="640"></embed><br />
<div style="font-family: verdana; font-size: 12px; padding-bottom: 6px; padding-left: 6px; padding-right: 6px; padding-top: 6px; text-align: center; width: 640px;"><a href="http://www.boredville.com/32304/No-arms-No-legs-No-worries" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">No arms, No legs, No worries.</a> - More <a href="http://www.boredville.com/" target="_blank">Things to do when you're bored</a></div>Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-80654508033517231462010-03-18T06:46:00.000-07:002010-03-18T06:46:08.437-07:00What's on my needles?I must say I am really digging my newest passion - knitting! I really regret not being brave enough to learn a long time ago, but there is no time like the present and who wants to live a life of regret? Not me. So I feel I must be trying to make up for the years that I didn't knit. <br />
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This is a short post today. Just a quick one to knock out the cobwebs on this blog. LOL For the fun of it, I am going to show you a picture of what is on my needles at this time. You will need to guess what it is. Leave your guess in the comment section and if you have a project on your needles or hooks, please share with me what it is.<br />
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My future goal is to dive into knitting socks. I think I can, I think I can......<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/S6IuSvjTLhI/AAAAAAAAAI8/YGnBqYlHxYc/s1600-h/DSCN9713.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/S6IuSvjTLhI/AAAAAAAAAI8/YGnBqYlHxYc/s320/DSCN9713.JPG" vt="true" /></a></div>Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-60810680159248730282010-01-06T07:07:00.000-08:002010-01-06T07:07:16.082-08:002010 A Happy New YearHoly smoke batman! Can you believe that 2009 has come and gone and 2010 is here and will surely fly by just as fast if not faster?<br />
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Looking back at 2009 I am proud of the new relationships I have been blessed with, the continued family bonding and support, the opportunities to continue working with my Young Marines youth and staff and more recently my girls from Girls to Young Ladies. I can also add that I picked up a new hobby - knitting, to my earlier passion of crocheting.<br />
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The last part of the year brought several wonderful announcements involving my son, the love of my life, honoring him for his committment, hard work, and abilities as a leader in the Milton Lewis Young Marines. He was 1st recognized as Young Marine of the Year for the Unit, then was selected by the 1st Florida Regiments as YMOY (for the state of Florida), and then before Christmas we were surprised with the announcement that he had been selected by the 3rd Division (6 states). This is such an amazing honor and brings with it many wonderful opportunities for him this coming year. More about all of this later.<br />
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For 2010 I look forward to staying involved in volunteering with both of these organizations, increasing my involvement with my church, finding ways to improve on my current skills and learning new ones, and working on a few other goals I have running around my head.<br />
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I would love to hear from others (you) about your plans for the new year and/or your reflection of last year, what are you proud of, what would you wish to change or forget about last year. Feel free to discuss here.<br />
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Happy New Year to each of you!Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-40211360712341183672009-10-19T07:59:00.000-07:002009-10-19T07:59:50.726-07:00How can my addiction help others?Addiction? Relax, don't get too worried. My addiction is to yarn and things to knit and crochet. Ever since I started learning how to crochet in January of this year and now knitting, I love to buy yarn and find things to make. Well I've found myself attracted mostly to hats and scarves and small projects. Funny thing is, I don't really care to wear hats. I have sold a few in my shop, but I have many waiting for new homes and I haven't stopped having the urge to make more.<br />
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So, recently I've been asking myself, how can this addiction to yarn and making things from them help others? Well, I believe a few ideas have been revealed to me recently. Why am I sharing this info with others, why not keep my addiction in the closet and deal with it in secrecy? Well that just wouldn't be any fun at all and those hats are looking for heads to keep warm.<br />
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My goal is to reach out to a cancer center and donate hats to them for the patients to pick out one of their liking to keep their heads warm and hide the effects of treatment - loss of hair. The second idea running through my head is to provide some items to our local homeless shelter. They are always in the need of hats, scarves, mittens, coats ( now I don't make those, but can find donations), blankets, and many other items that can be made by hand or donated.<br />
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Girl you have lofty goals, how are you going to do all this by yourself? I don't plan on doing this alone. I know there are many people locally who love to knit, crochet and sew. I am hoping to get pledges from folks with amount of items they would like to make and donate. The weather is already turning cool, so I don't have a lot of time to complete my goal, but with the help of others I know I can get it done. I would like to have at least 50 items available for donation to both a cancer center and St. Francis house by the end of November. Please help me spread the word. Do you like to knit, crochet or sew? Would you consider making and donating at least one item to the cause? You can designate if you would prefer the item to be given to the cancer center or to St. Frances. If it's for cancer patients please make your items very soft. There are several patterns online that can give you ideas of what to make and what materials to use. For the homeless, please consider making the items gender neutral and/or making something that young people would be proud to wear. <br />
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If you would like to contact me with your pledge please reply here or email me at designsbyjenai (at) gmail.com.<br />
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I believe with a little help from others within this community I can reach my goal by the end of the month. For those of you who don't do any of those crafts but would like to contribute, I would also accept new, unused or gently used (in good condition) hats, scarves, gloves, jackets, and blankets.<br />
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Thank you for helping me with this challenge and spreading the word.Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-23439794210234289582009-08-07T05:33:00.000-07:002009-08-07T09:00:55.875-07:00Facebook Connections - What an Awesome Tool<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/SnxMXrhAB9I/AAAAAAAAAIo/U9F1sFBhgp4/s1600-h/Picture+071.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367248825620629458" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/SnxMXrhAB9I/AAAAAAAAAIo/U9F1sFBhgp4/s400/Picture+071.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:85%;color:#6600cc;"><em></em></span><br /><span style="color:#ff6666;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>Photo by: Jenai Collins</em></span> </span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color:#ff6666;">Bee and flower on UF campus</span><br /></span><br />For those who know me, it is no surprise that family bonds and connections are very important to me. To those of you who are getting to know me through this blog well, now you know. I deeply treasure the bonds that are made with family and that includes family that we create through relationships. I have many family members in my life that were created not by marriage or by birth and to me those relationships are just as important as the traditional family.<br /><br />This brings me to the purpose of this post, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Facebook</span>. Yes, I know there are many who don't like it, don't understand it, are scared of it and then there are those who are addicted to it. Some that probably share WAY TOO MUCH (TMI) info on it, but I believe if used with common sense it can be a fantastic tool to stay connected, reconnect and to make new connections with friends and family.<br /><br />If you are anything like me, you struggle with letter writing and even picking up the phone. Don't know why, can't explain my aversion to taking the time to do it, I just never really cared for it much. However, oddly enough I always love <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">receiving</span> a letter from a family member or friend. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">OK</span> so maybe it's laziness, I'll admit to that <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">possibility</span>, sheepishly. Yes, mom, I said it, plain laziness. I know, I know, how many times have you had to hand me a blank note card and pen and tell me, write it now and I'll send it. Oh yes, and I know that it has been in the very recent of time. ha,ha,ha! Thanks mom for not giving up on me and reminding me to do what needed to be done. Who says parenting ends at 18?<br /><br />What's this have to do with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">facebook</span>? Well, I guess in a few words it equals instant gratification. You can send a quick note to your loved ones and you know that a response is likely to be sent in a matter of either minutes, a few hours or in some unusual cases a few days. But, in the meantime, you can view their pictures, read their updates and feel like you haven't missed out on being involved in their life, regardless of miles that may <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">separate</span> you or the years that have passed that have <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">separated</span> you.<br /><br />Over the past week I have been blessed to have the opportunity to reconnect with family members that I haven't seen or talked with in YEARS. Can't really say why or how we lost connection and maybe that's really not important. Forget the past and move on to today and hopefully the future. Also, the ability to stay in better contact with family members who I don't get to see on a regular basis, has been priceless. Then there is the factor of finding or being found by family that you didn't even know you had or have never met.<br /><br />I must admit, it can all become very overwhelming and time consuming and I have not really had the chance to reach out to many of the family members that I have added as friends on my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">facebook</span> account. I have cousins, aunts & uncles that I've never really met yet and it would be wonderful to finally have the chance to get to know them. Now the challenge is to find enough time to do it.<br /><br />If you haven't delved into the world of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Facebook</span>, I say give it try. Talk with your family members and encourage them to open an account and watch how your connections bloom into a web of family, friends and classmates. You can choose to keep your info as private or public as your are comfortable with. But do note that anything you do online can eventually be seen or found in some way or another, so always use discretion and care with what you post online. Don't give out your phone #, address, etc. on your wall. Contact the individual directly either through <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">facebook</span> messaging or email and give them that info if you are interested in connecting through more traditional means. Be mindful of the pictures you post of yourself and others as well as what others post of you. Something that may really be innocent can sure look incriminating online or maybe might not shed the best light on you and your character. We've seen evidence of high profile folks who have made comments or posted info on facebook or other social networking services that ended up causing some kind of scandle or problem. Don't let this happen to you.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Facebook</span> has also been a great way for me to share with friends and family my hobbies and personal business ventures, giving them an opportunity to show their support and encouragement. Each time someone makes a comment on a recent post or addition to my fan page it spreads <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">virally</span> to others who then become curious and take a peak at my business page or blog.<br /><br />I would love to hear stories of your experiences on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">facebook</span>. Have you found a long lost love, made a love connection, reconnected with a lost family member? Please share these with me. You can share your story in the comment section below.</div><div> </div><div>Please remember that life can be short and at times fragile, so don't wait until tomorrow to say hello, I love you, just thinking about you, miss you, let's get together or whatever else may be in your heart or mind to say to a friend or family member. Do it today! Do it now! Trust me there may be a day that you will be thankful that you took the time to let that person know you were thinking of them. If facebook isn't for you, then find another way to connect with others and share in their lifes journey and let them experience yours as well. It is with these connections to others that we are really able to live a life full of love, joy, happiness and at times even saddness. Don't miss your chance to share these times with each other. Take a moment to encourage, congratulate, spread some joy to someone in your life that you may have lost touch with or with even those who remain in constant contact with. </div>Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-83026915266167638252009-07-17T11:59:00.001-07:002009-07-17T13:39:34.344-07:00My Niece Turns 3! This is her new blanket<div>The saying "time flies" is so true. My niece is turning 3 this Saturday. It seems like she was a tiny bundle just a few weeks ago. I feel so blessed to have my family close in distance so that I can watch my nephews and niece grow and can be a part of their lives as well as them be a special part in mine.</div><div></div><br /><div>During a recent stay with my sister during the 4th of July I was working on a scarf and my niece kept questioning me about it. She wanted to know if that was her blanket, after repeated version on this I finally asked her if she wanted me to make her a blanket. She quickly said yes and when asked what color she would like she announced "Pink, Nai Nai", in a manner that suggested I should have known better. Would you believe that I had a whole pound of pink yarn in my car, purchased on a whim? It's true, it was meant to be. </div><div></div><br /><div>So I played with a pattern that I found and tweeked it to my needs and came up with a border that would help top it off. I think it came out quite cute and I am looking forward to finding out what she thinks about it. Below is a picture of the small blanket.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/SmDMTPuY1YI/AAAAAAAAAIA/3PQmqXl5rB0/s1600-h/blanket+001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359508187581568386" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/SmDMTPuY1YI/AAAAAAAAAIA/3PQmqXl5rB0/s400/blanket+001.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div>Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-17587272890932459072009-07-02T05:36:00.000-07:002009-07-02T05:46:36.803-07:00Featured Sellers for the Month of July, etcA few announcements in celebration of July!<br /><br />In my shop, you will find many items with free shipping and all weekend long, I have a BOGO sale! Buy 1 item and get the second of equal or lesser value 1/2 off! Two great ways to save this weekend.<br /><br />I have 2 new Etsy Mini's at the right from 2 wonderful and different Etsy Shops. Both of them will be here all month long. Topaz08 and DarlingDaisy were winners of my July Etsy Mini Contest, winning a full month of FREE space on my blog. Please check out their shops and let them know you found them here.<br /><br /><p>Topaz is also a fellow crocheter. Awesome handwork and unique pieces. Darling Daisy takes you back to the beach with each of her lovely pieces of jewelry. It reminds me of the family trips to the beach hunting for shells and playing in the sand.</p><p>I wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday!<br /></p>Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-84732375039566786972009-06-26T10:09:00.000-07:002009-06-26T10:39:22.259-07:00Feature Friday #5I didn't do much blogging this past week. I guess I've been tossing around my next promotional release idea as well as some other marketing plans, time just got away from me. I think I've got something in mind that I will anounce next week, so be on the look out.<br /><div></div><br /><div>The week has gone by faster than I expected. It helped that I had Monday off so it felt like each day was the previous one. </div><br /><div></div><div>Before I announce my new featured seller of the week, I want to express my gratitude to several new people I have had the pleasure of meeting online. Each one has been a blessing in different ways but all so incredible, helpful and talented. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6307409">Blaire of Go</a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6307409">od Karma Soaps</a>,<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5996054"> Mignon of Jewelry by Mignon,</a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6405011">Anna of Betafly</a>, and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7104021">Trudy of Art by Trudy</a>. These wonderful ladies have been helpful <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/SkUFy4YAk0I/AAAAAAAAAH4/2LmfvFEm-i4/s1600-h/Picture+162.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351690103884387138" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/SkUFy4YAk0I/AAAAAAAAAH4/2LmfvFEm-i4/s320/Picture+162.jpg" border="0" /></a>in many ways, each of them know what they've done and Ms. Trudy has been a great inspiration in overcoming some of lifes hardest challenges. Each one has their own unigue shop on Etsy and I would encourage you to take a look and also read their profiles and learn a bit more about them. A big hug to each of you!</div><div></div><br /><div>Now, if you will look to the right of this page you will find my newest featured seller for this week. Jewelry by Mignon. Take a moment to browse around in her shop, give her a heart or find her on twitter and let her know I sent you to say hello.</div>Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-75661360540559638942009-06-19T13:53:00.000-07:002009-06-19T14:04:34.665-07:00Feature Friday #4I am proud to introduce you to my featured seller of the week, Kate Gabriell of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7319748">Flapperdoodle</a>. She is the creator of Eloise and Ramona, the fashionable ladies, illustrated in the prints in Kate's shop. She is a young and talented artist and comes from a family full of talent. I would love to spend sometime with them, maybe some of the talent will rub off on me. LOL<br /><br />Kate's line drawings are so stylish and I can imagine one of her characters wearing one of my crocheted hats and doing with such style and flair.<br /><br />Take a peak at her art, her etsy mini is on the right side of this page, directly under mine and you can also find her at these other locations. Visit her and let her know I sent you. No, I don't get anything for you doing that, I would just like her to know that you saw her on my blog. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.kategabrielle.com/">http://www.kategabrielle.com</a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/kategabrielle">http://www.flickr.com/kategabrielle</a><br /><a href="http://www.flapperdoodle.blogspot.com/">http://www.flapperdoodle.blogspot.com</a><br />http://www.silentsandtalkies.blogspot.com<br /><br />Kate and Flapperdoodle will be here all week and then next Friday I will introduce you to another great Etsy artist/crafter.Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-66061330732122156272009-06-16T07:59:00.000-07:002009-06-16T09:01:04.005-07:00Blog Give-away Winners AnnouncedWow, Blaire and I were so excited by the responses <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">received</span> during this give-away. It made it really hard when it came down to the decision making. Which caused a bit of delay in our announcement.<br /><br />So, I won't hold back any longer - I know you've been waiting to here who the winners are.<br /><br />(please stand by for a brief commercial message from our sponsors)<br /><br />Nah, just kidding!<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"><em>1st Place Winner - $25.00 @ <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Goodkarmasoaps</span></em></span></strong><br />We chose Bella as first place because she had both a soap and marketing idea, congratulations!<br /><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;"><strong><em>2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">nd</span> Place Winner - $15.00 @ <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Goodkarmasoaps</span></em></strong></span><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Wehav</span> is second place with a great marketing idea of teaming up with other <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Etsy</span> sellers.<br /><br /><em><strong><span style="color:#00cccc;">3rd Place Winner - $10.00 @ <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Goodkarmasoaps</span></span></strong></em><br />Third place is Oceanside with the sampler idea<br /><br /><em><strong><span style="color:#993399;">Honorable Mention - $5.<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">oo</span> & FREE shipping @ <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Goodkarmasoaps</span></span></strong></em><br />(<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">couldn</span>’t help it, there were just too many good ideas so I had to keep adding prizes) was Mignon <br /><br />To claim your prizes, contact <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Blaire</span> at good karma soaps by email <a href="mailto:customerservice@goodkarmasoaps">customerservice@goodkarmasoaps</a> and she will give you instructions on how to claim your prizes!<br /><br />Thanks Blaire for sponsoring this fantastic give-away. Also, if you didn't notice she decided to increase the prize levels. She is always so sneaky like that. I should know. I just <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">received</span> a package from her with my exploding frog soaps that I ordered and ended up with a box of never ending soaps. Soap just kept coming out of my box. I couldn't believe by eyes. It reminded me of those clowns packed in the super small cars and they just keep coming out and coming out. Blaire has a huge heart for others and takes great care of her customers.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Ok</span>, now on to the winners of my portion of the give-away. Thank you for following my blog, tweeting, and joining me on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">facebook</span>! I've met several wonderful people and look forward to talking with you in the future.<br /><br /><strong>Mignon</strong> - you have been chosen for my $10.00 gift certificate to be used in my shop. Congratulations!<br /><br /><strong>Quilting Diva</strong> - I am happy to offer you the $5.00 gift certificate to be used in my shop.<br /><br />Both of you can contact me for your instructions on how to redeem your prize, either by etsy convo or email: designsbyjenai at gmail.com.<br /><br />Finally - for everyone else who participated, all of you are wonderful and had such great ideas and compliments I would like to offer you a choice of FREE shipping or 15% your next purchase in my shop. Just remind me when checking out or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">convo</span> me and I will make sure I take care of you.<br /><br />Before ending this post I would like to also offer you another way to save in my shop. I am going to start a referral plan in my shop. If you are interested in participating and would like more information, please leave me a comment here along with how I can reach you directly, so I can share the details with you.<br /><br />Have a terrific Tuesday and remember to make someone smile today!Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-60080612709397431082009-06-12T16:50:00.000-07:002009-06-12T16:58:36.328-07:00Feature Friday #3 - Hair Bow DepotPhew, it's been a fun and busy day. I promised Kerry of Hair Bow Depot that she would be my featured seller for today and I am so happy that I am able to fulfill my promise. You can find her stores mini below mine on the right side of this page.<br /><br />Reading her profile, I was tickled by something that caught my eye. She is a married mom of 3 boys! Yes, I said it - boys. LOL I can understand her wanting to break away from the usual boy inspired items. I have a son and 2 nephews so when the family was blessed with a girl, my niece, it was a refreshing treat. Now don't get me wrong, having a son is awesome. However, shopping for girl clothes and accessories is on a whole new level. I have to stay out of the little girl sections when I shop because I end up ooh'ing and aww'ing at every cute outfit and buying way too many.<br /><br />Anyways, back to the reason I came here, check out this great etsy seller and her sweet products. Be sure to let her know I sent you.<br /><br />Have a great weekend and come back on Monday to find out who the give-away winners are - could be you!Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-46134808740432070822009-06-11T05:50:00.000-07:002009-06-11T05:59:39.851-07:00Still Feeling Dirty and Really Need Some Soap? 2nd Place Prize AnnouncementJust <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">received</span> word from Blaire of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Goodkarmasoaps</span> and you won't believe what she told me. She was so excited by the responses and creative ideas that she was worried about our ability to pick only 1 winner. She has decided to offer the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">nd</span> place winner a $10 gift certificate to be redeemed in her shop and not only that - there is a possibility of a 3rd place prize of $5.<br /><br /><br />That is a total of $35 in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Goodkarmasoaps</span> gift certificates.<br /><br />Hold on - I can't let Blaire be the only one having fun giving stuff away! I am going to also give a second person who has signed up to follow my blog, etc at $5 gift certificate to be used in my shop.<br /><br />So let's recap - our total in prizes has now become a combined $50. This is just too much fun.<br /><br />Spread the word and keep those amazing ideas coming in!Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-59503075506062244892009-06-09T13:25:00.000-07:002009-06-09T13:29:10.388-07:00Quote for the daySaw this on a sign while running errands today and thought I should share it.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Coulda, woulda, & shoulda are all closely related to Didn't.</span></strong><br /><br />Chew on that for a minute. <br /><br />Ok minute is up - now look one post down and register for my blog give-away. What do you have to loose? FREE soap and Free stuff from me - that's what!Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-49548819783551037092009-06-08T13:08:00.000-07:002009-06-11T06:03:49.080-07:00Feeling Dirty - Win some soap!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345058094922725074" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/Si12BJux9tI/AAAAAAAAAGE/f4ncDQVr7XQ/s400/asoap.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#cc0000;"><strong>See updated announcement above! More prizes added 6/11/09</strong></span></div><div> </div><div>Who couldn't use some soap - especially the FREE kind.</div><div></div><br /><div>My new good friend and fellow Etsy seller wanted to do something nice for someone else. She would like to give someone a $15.00 coupon to use in her shop <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6307409">Goodkarmasoaps.</a> Wow, $15 worth of FREE merchandise! What do you have to do to win? Let me tell you -</div><br /><div>1. Take a look at her shop, just to get an idea of what she sells, come back here, leave a comment or suggestion answering one of the following questions.</div><div>a. Suggest a new soap you think she should make</div><div>b. Suggest a new smell - what is your favorite or what do you think others would enjoy</div><div>c. Suggest a new marketing idea that she should use in her shop</div><br /><div>2. For an extra point, sign up to follow my blog</div><br /><div>3. Twitter this give-away for another point - http://twitter.com/designsbyjenai</div><br /><div></div><div>Three very easy ways to enter this contest. Don't you think? Blaire and I will review the suggestions and pick our favorite, then add the extra points to that and we will find our winner. Winner will be announced next Monday! June 15, 2009 - so get your comments in and pass the word on through your blog, your facebook, and with your tweets.</div><div></div><br /><div><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Wait there is more!!!!</span></strong> For those of you who sign-up to follow my blog and become a fan on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/Designs-by-Jenai/73388406263">facebook fan page</a>, I will pick a winner to recieve a $10 coupon to use in my shop. Who knows you could win both coupons - $25 worth of FREE merchandise!!!!! Leave me a comment on my blog or facebook page letting me know you did both.</div><div></div><div>Winners will be announced next Monday, June 15, 2009.</div>Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-23937637461938087572009-06-05T05:48:00.000-07:002009-06-05T05:55:13.510-07:00Feature Friday #2It's feature Friday time. TripleLdesigns is the recipient of my FREE Etsy Mini hosting special I have offered to several Etsy artist recently.<br /><br />Her mini share a spot on my blog for the next week. I encourage you to take a moment to visit her shop and let her know you found her here.<br /><br />Have a wonderful weekend and don't forget, Monday, I'll be announcing my next secret give-away. Come back for a chance at winning something wonderful and FREE.Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-79393909612041937492009-06-04T09:06:00.000-07:002009-06-05T08:37:04.630-07:00Special Announcements<div>Good afternoon Friends!<br /><br />I have several announcements that I wanted to share with you so I'll do it all in one post.<br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; COLOR: rgb(51,204,255)">1. Upcoming Blog-Give Away</span> - Check back on Monday. I will be announcing a special give-away sponsored by another Etsy seller. You won't want to miss this!<br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; COLOR: rgb(51,204,255)">2. Etsy Yart Sale</span> - I will be participating in Etsy's Yart Sale next week, starting on June 10th. I will be offering special deals on select merchandise, to include reduced prices, free shipping and other fun surprises that I think of by then. I have a special Yart Sale Section in my shop. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/Sik7fDk0E3I/AAAAAAAAAF8/zJov_Ow9pIo/s1600-h/Yart_Sale_Avatar_I.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343867837573501810" style="WIDTH: 100px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 100px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_w_7a6Fap3vQ/Sik7fDk0E3I/AAAAAAAAAF8/zJov_Ow9pIo/s400/Yart_Sale_Avatar_I.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; COLOR: rgb(51,204,255)">3. Twitter:</span> I would love for you to find me on twitter. I will be tweeting secret Twitter Only Specials from time to time. <a href="http://twitter.com/designsbyjenai" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://twitter.com/designsbyjenai</a><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; COLOR: rgb(51,204,255)">4. Charitable contributions</span>: I have decided to donate 10% of my sales to a wonderful organization that I recently discovered, Gainesville Fisher House. This means that your purchases will also help others in my community. Want to learn more about the organization? Visit their link on my links section.<br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold; COLOR: rgb(51,204,255)">5. Feature Friday</span> - I will be featuring another Etsy seller and her mini etsy on my blog tomorrow, check her out, find a few things you like and heart them or better yet, find something to buy. :-)<br /><br />What is an Etsy Mini - I just heard someone ask the question, glad you asked, someone else may have been too shy to ask. It is way for sellers on Etsy to show you a few things that are offered in their shop and it is linked directly to their shop. So, all you have to do is click on one of the images and it will take you directly there. You can see mine on the top right and theirs is directly beneath mine.<br /><br />Why are you posting someone else's shop on YOUR blog Jenai? Aren't you afraid that you will lose business? Heard that question too. Short answer would be: I just rock like that! Long truthful answer: I am nice like that and I do rock, but I have other reasons as well. I feel if we support each other, folks will find us (me, my shop). I am asking them to also let their friends, followers and enemies know about my blog and my shop as well. I am a firm believer in "you reap what you sow". As I help someone else, the favor will be given to me. Finally, I enjoy meeting new people and connecting with them and I get to do that with my blog, etsy shop and twitter.<br /><br />Have a great Friday Eve and come back and check out my give-away announcement and Feature Friday.</div>Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4645806349693303857.post-79299846271563023742009-05-29T11:19:00.000-07:002009-05-29T11:31:43.645-07:00Feature FridayI am sure this is not a totally new and unique idea, but I decided to start doing it as it seemed like fun and a great way to meet other sellers on Etsy. OK - truth be told, I am also hoping new people will find me in the process as well.<br /><br />Each Friday, I will post an Etsy Mini from that shop - can be seen on the right side of my blog underneath my little etsy mini. They will be there all week long for FREE. A little bit of free advertisement for them and they will mention me to their blog friends as well. One of those, you scratch my back and I'll scratch our back ideas. Like it? I do!<br /><br />I've got my 1st two shops lined up and have several others that have expressed interest so I should be able to share several great shops with you each week for quite some time.<br /><br />Also, I have heard from a little bird that one of my newest friends would like to sponsor a give-away right here on my blog. As soon as that is arranged I'll update you with the information. Of course that means you will need to check back here again soon. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on the opportunity - hey who doesn't like getting a FREE gift, no strings attached? I love it. I am carrying a great little pouch that I won recently - see below for more info on that.Designs by Jenaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17321566485327222505noreply@blogger.com2