I have an upcoming show in Georgetown and am busily getting ready.  I thought I would post some of my latest that will proudly displayed at this show.

If you are in the Georgetown area, feel free to stop by and say hello!

Buying Handmade Goods

I have had this on my mind for some time and really feel that it needs to be heard and understood.  In no way am I trying to tell people what to do, but what I do want people to do is think about is what is the best thing to do/right thing to do.

When I was shopping around Christmas time I got frustrated by what I saw in the stores.  There was mostly mass produced products (most likely made overseas) that looks like everything else and probably won't last very long because they ARE mass produced with inferior parts.  What has happened to us?  Why does everyone think they have to have this stuff?  Of course our need to have so much "stuff" is a whole other topic.

Our country is having difficulties now and I don't think I will get any arguments on this statement.  I have my opinions on this matter and believe we need to start giving business to the little guy again; buy handmade products instead of mass produced (made overseas) products.  Buy locally and from people in the USA.  Personally, I think that is what is going to help this country.  I have heard that small business may make a comeback in this country, but it can't without the help of each other giving business to the smaller companies.  You may need to do some research to find them, but there are great small companies who are more than willing to do business with you.

I welcome any feedback on this matter; to have an open dialog and maybe we can more ways to get this country on its feet again.

 

Finding Inspiration!

I recently got back from Tucson (the BIG gem and jewelry show) and though it wasn't quite as fantastic as it has been in the past, but it was still fun. 

So I have gotten a bit of inspiration and put some jewelry together.  The first and second items are now on etsy.

I have so much to catch up on and am going to try and get some different kind of things up for sale including more supplies, so please keep in touch and thanks for looking.

Push Pins

These are new in the Phishstuff catalog and are so very cute!  This particular set is a special order.  Christmas is coming and a set of push pins would be an ideal gift for a co-worker, teacher, baby sitter, or a guy.  Special order time is almost run out, so if you want to choose your colors you must hurry! 
I do have some listed on both Etsy and my web site.  If you choose three, I will combine the shipping and only charge for one item ($2.25). You can even order from each site and I will do the same, just drop me an email to let me know.

I do hope that your holiday season is filled with joy and peace. Blessings to all and Merry Christmas!

Experiments with Murrini

I have been wanting to experiment with murrini (handmade glass cane -this one by Double Helix glassworks) and while everyone else has perfected it, I am still way behind on figuring it out.  I finally purchased some and though have been a bit intimidated by it, I was finally was able to play.  I have tried a few things, but this is a bead I kind of like.  It is bigger than what I ususally make and the little star pattern circle is the murrini. 

Burger joints blog entry months later!

I just found the blog entry below after losing it.   Thought I would post it anyway, because I took so much time to get it done.

Change-up

Well, I decided to change my blog and just make it about general stuff about what is going on with me.  I hope that I will post more often and with informative and interesting stuff.  Please feel free to leave comments.

One thing I have been wanting to talk about is burger joints.  I really like a great burger.  I am not talking about fast food joints, I am talking about places known for their burgers.   My Father must have passed the gene down because he did too.  AND what is funny is that I am not a total meat person, but a good burger just is like nothing else. 

So I am posting the results of my most recent inquiries into burger joints.  I am limiting this particular posting to places in Texas.

#1 Mighty Fine Burgers and Fries - http://mightyfineburgers.com/#/home
So far this joint has topped the list.  The burgers are basic, but good.  There is the standard variety of fixins to complete you burger, though mine kept simple-pickles and ketchup.  The ordering process is a bit different. You feel a bit like cattle being driven through the maze of gates, especially on the extremely busy weekends.  When you arrive at the order area, the staff is always courteous, asking how things are going and if you are having a "mighty fine" day.
One of the draws for the kids is the hand washing station.  It is very unique and you can even get a sticker showing your completion of the process.  I honestly look forward to bringing out of towners (with kids) to show the place off sometime.
I also have to congratulate the fries. The fries are cut on premises from real potatoes and cooked in peanut oil.  I also love the fact that they have sea salt on the tables to season the fries, along with other interesting seasoning choices.  One order of fries easily feeds two people for your info, too.
So about the actual location- it is kind of like having a picnic.  My vote for best location is the Round Rock location because of its semi outside seating area.  That is always where I sit when I frequent Mighty Fine. There are actually three choices of seating -inside (boring), semi outside (best) and outside (second best).
I have to say the huge crowds are a good indication that this place is a hit.  I will suggest it to any person who can appreciate a decent burger and doesn't appreciate the same old fast food places.

Next Burger location coming soon!