Delightful Treasures - Custom Designed Jewelry to Delight Your Heart

Delightful Treasures -- Cyber Monday Sale

2011-11-28T06:44:00.000-06:00

Hello,

I wanted to let you know that I have opened a shop at www.ArtFire.com/delightful-treasures.

I am running a Cyber Monday special for the first ten people who use the coupon code 50CYBERMONDAY. 50% off any one item! This is the only time the Twisted Elegance jewelry line is on sale.

Please feel free to share the announcement with your friends.

Happy Shopping!

Angie Leech

Delightful-Treasures

Mother's Day Special

2011-04-08T07:10:00.003-05:00

Mother's Day Special --

I am accepting custom orders for Family Birthstone bracelets. The photos shown have 6mm bicone beads but I am offering 8mm round beads for the same price - both are beautiful!

Orders placed by April 10 will receive a 10% discount. Orders placed and pre-paid by April 10 will receive a 25% discount.

No obligation inquiries welcome. Leave a post here, message me thru facebook, or e-mail angie@delightful-treasures.com.

Regular price is $30 -- order by Saturday and the price is $27 -- order and pay by Saturday and the price is $22.50. (Plus sales tax) For your convenience, I accept cash, check, credit and debit cards, and PayPal

Have a blessed day!

Angie

Welcome Back!

2011-04-07T06:39:00.002-05:00

I've had "re-open my blog" on my To-DO list since the first of the year. I keep putting it off because I don't have time to re-design the site -- or even write a post. There is always something pressing that pushes it right to the bottom. Well, today I decided I was just going to do it. I'm taking the first step - the rest will follow! I thought about a completely new start, but I think re-visiting where I left off from several years will be good for me -- and it will give you, the reader - my clients and friends, a little history. So, what have you been putting off (maybe because it is something you wanted to perfect - like my blog was for me)? Just jump in today - go for it! Something beautiful will catch a spark and grow! Blessings, Angie

Happy Anniversay!

2008-12-23T05:43:00.005-06:00

December 23, 1983 was a VERY COLD, WINDY day. The weather today reminds me of that day 25 years ago. I think the wind chill then was like 30 below or something. Anyway, it was a cold day to get married! We expected that it would be cold and possibly snowy or icy -- but wow! It probably wasn't the best choice of days for a wedding. In our youth, we just didn't understand how busy the Christmas season gets for people! Our wedding was small and intimate, but lovely. I think there were about 30 people in attendance.

Fast forward to almost 25 years later............. We were caught up in the business of December -- we had gone to the Smoky Hill Vineyard with our friends, Todd and Shelly, the night of the 5th for a murder mystery dinner to celebrate Karl's birthday (the 6th), then on Saturday I had a show in town all day and Karl worked at getting the outdoor Christmas lights put up, and we were planning to go to dinner with Todd and Shelly again to a steak place we'd heard a lot of good things about in a little town nearby. We wouldn't normally go out two nights in a row, but I originally couldn't get tickets to the Vineyard to surprise Karl so Todd set up the dinner on Sat. night to celebrate both Karl and Shelly's birthdays (hers is the 8th). Midweek before, Karl questioned if we ought to just wait for the steak place until January........ but Todd said they already had a sitter so we'd go. So, ..........

Todd and Shelly picked us up that evening and as we were heading out of town he stopped by our church first. He said there was something that he needed us to settle for them. They never bicker and they were going back and forth about something with the door handle - whatever. I had trouble with it the week before and Karl said he didn't, so I figured it was that. Well, when we opened the door, the lights came on and we heard, "Happy Anniversary!" and were greeted by a sea of familiar faces.

They had been in kahootz with our family for quite a while planning this event. We were quite surprised! The celebration started with a DVD of photos throughout our marriage and then we enjoyed a soup supper. There was even a wedding cake and punch--- except for the missing fountain, it was exactly like our original wedding cake.

It was a wonderful surprise - everyone did a really good job of keeping us in the dark - I think the whole town and everyone I work with knew what was going on though! We began to suspect something was going on late in the afternoon -- just little things began to come together -- but we just thought that if anything was going on, maybe our kids and a few other friends or family members would be at the restaurant when we got there to surprise Karl for his birthday. There were 40 guests in attendance - some from as far as about 300 miles away.

Happy Anniversary to us! (And, yes, I'd do it ALL over again!)

(L to R) Our daughter, Rheann. Our son, Christopher and his his wife, Susan.

Orange Crush

2008-12-16T06:54:00.002-06:00

Orange Crush. Gunmetal chain and clasp on the anklet with orange millifiori chips and Swarovski 4mm crystal bicones. It is a little out of season for an anklet -- but a great deal at $8 for today.

The matching necklace, bracelet and earring set can be yours for $17 today.

2008-12-15T06:00:00.003-06:00

Today I am offering this necklace, earrings and anklet set of Black Mother of Pearl and Freshwater Pearls in Peacock (purplish/black). The clasps are silver tone snaps and the ear wires are sterling silver.

Chunky Unakite Cross

2008-12-12T05:01:00.003-06:00

This chunky 33mm Unakite cross is one of the new pieces I purchased recently. It is very nice. I've accented it with 8 mm round Unakite beads, seed beads and copper clasps and ear wires.

Austrailian Blue Opal

2008-12-11T05:53:00.003-06:00

17x12mm Austrailian Blue Opal and silver plate charm chain. The ear wires are sterling silver.

Copper & Adventurine

2008-12-10T06:03:00.004-06:00

This set includes Red and Brown Adventurine and Brown Amazonite accented by copper. It is a combination of warm neutral colors.

A Little Bit of Christmas/Winter Bling

2008-12-09T05:53:00.004-06:00

I have a few pair of Swarovski crystal Christmas tree and Snowman earrings (Swarovski and Chezk glass) who would love to "hang around" with you throughout the holidays. The Swarovski is very sparkly.

They are either on 14K gold filled ear wires or sterling silver.

Be sure to get 'em while I still got 'em! They make a great little secret pal or teacher gift.

Scrabble Anyone?

2008-12-04T06:25:00.002-06:00

Scrabble Bauble necklaces come in all colors -- and every letter of the alphabet. They are made with an assortment of recycled (GO GREEN) vintage beads. They are fun necklaces to wear - and I can even make you a coordinated bracelet or pair of earrings if you wish. They are also fun to hang from your rear view mirror for a little conversatioinal bling in your car. The Scrabble Bauble necklaces shown without the side dangles are appropriate for boys. (And, they are not just for kids -- adults love a little whimsy now and then too!)

Choose a color (or maybe give me a couple color choices) and your letter and order by Saturday, December 13 and I will guarantee delivery in time for Christmas.

The Scrabble Bauble necklaces retail for $10 each. Your price through December 13 is $5 each for a one letter Scrabble Bauble necklace. Add $2 for each additional letter you might want.

Note: I can also make a pretty funky keychain with these fun little jewels!

Pewter and ??

2008-12-04T06:16:00.006-06:00

I really don't know what these reddish/brown beads are -- but I sure think they are pretty rocks! They are combined with pewter accents and the closure is a silver tone snap clasp. (Everyone loves the snap clasps!) I will put the earrings on sterling silver kidney ear wires.

African Turquoise & Jade

2008-12-04T06:04:00.006-06:00

African Turquoise oval beads are accented by Red Jade round beads and Australian Aquamarine chips. The bracelet and necklace have silver tone toggle clasps; the kidney ear wires are sterling silver.

The finished length of the necklace is about 17 inches - the perfect length to wear with a round neckline or even an open collar on a button up shirt.

Walk Like an Egyptian

2008-12-04T05:23:00.004-06:00

Something about this set just makes that crazy song start playing in my head - although I don't usually break out in the dance! Oh, yes -- here's why!

The striking pendant is Egyptian Lapis Lazuli and 100% solid copper. It is accented with 7.5x6mm oval copper beads, 17x14mm 100% solid copper fancy beads, 6-8 mm Egyptian Lapis Lazuli coin beads, 14x4 mm Persian Lapis Lazuli oblong beads and 4mm copper round beads. the clasps on the necklace and bracelet are copper hook and eye and the earring findings are copper.

The Lapis Lazuli beads and pendant have tiny, tiny very fine glittery highlights of a goldish/copperish color in them. You almost have to really look for them to see them.

The necklace is about 20 inches long and the pendant adds another 1.5 inches.

This set is fit for a queen. It is a one-of-a-kind design.

End-of-the-year daily specials!

2008-12-04T05:12:00.004-06:00

Note: This text is from a copy of an e-mail I sent out last night. If you would like to be on the e-mail list, please reply on this blog and I will add you to the list. Please forward the link to the blog to any friends/family who might be interested in the great end-of-the year deals I will be posting between now and 1-1-09.

Hi Everyone,Thanksgiving has passed and Christmas will be here in three short weeks! Time is really flying. We had a great open house last weekend and then I ended up missing work for two days with a nasty chest cold. I'm still battling it but feeling much better. I went back to work today and did pretty well but sure could have used a mid-day nap!I told Karl that I knew I really must not have been feeling well when I didn't even pick up a bead those two days.

Looking back, I'm not sure what I did with all that "free" time except sleep and think. Thinking is where this newsletter comes in...... read on.

Karl and I have been talking about the direction we want this business to head and I thought up all kinds of ideas while I was resting! Those of you who know me well are probably shaking your head --I love thinking up new ideas! So, here are a couple:

1. I am going to have some major first-come, first-serve sales between now and the end of the year in an effort to move some inventory so I can streamline the finished pieces I take to shows. I am never able to display it all. I am not going to fill your in-boxes with e-mail. I will post it on the blog. So, be sure to bookmark my blog and check it every day. Most days there will be only one item or set up for grabs. If something sells early in the day - I just might post something new on the same day or that evening. It will be a surprise. Check back often! You can send me an email if you want to purchase one of the items, or you can post right on the blog. Both methods will record the time of the request and I will honor the first. If you want something that someone has already spoken for on the blog, go ahead and post your interest just in case something falls through. I'll post on the blog when an item is sold.

NOTE: If you are not a registered Blogger, is very easy and secure to register and set up an account to blog. Just follow the links when you try to post a comment.

2. I am exploring the concept of girls' night out beading parties starting in early 2009. You could bring your girlfriends, sisters, daughters, mothers, (get the idea?) and come pick out your beads and design your own jewelry. I'd be available for assistance and instruction -- maybe even have some classes on different techniques. Have I told you yet that I LOVE the latest beads I've ordered. They are top quality and gorgeous. And, I have more on the way.

3. Wait, I said a couple. I think that is two. I'll stop there. I have to leave something for you to wonder about!

But, one more thing. We will be at the Holiday Open House at the Scout Hall in Minneapolis (in the park) on Saturday, December 6, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Stop by if you get a chance.I'm not sure when I will post the first great deal-- probably sometime in the next 24 hours. Get your list out so you know who you have to shop for yet -- and be ready!

Open house today

2008-11-29T09:42:00.003-06:00

We are hosting an open house this afternoon (Saturday, Nov. 29) from 3-7 p.m. at the VFW Hall in Minneapolis.

We are offering 25% off all pre-made jewelry and custom orders placed today.

Please stop by today for some hot cocoa or cider and a cookie or two -- and see how many people on your Christmas list you can take care of in one stop!

Be sure to register for the $50 gift certificate drawing.

And ---- I just added eight new necklace/earring sets that are at great gift giving prices. I recently purchased some very nice gemstone beads and pendants at an awesome discount and am passing savings on to you - my valued customer. I've included a few photos here. You can expect to find these sets at about 1/2 of the "normal retail" price -- plus today we will take an additional 25% off.

Which of these is your favorite? (Double click on the photo to enlarge it.)

Mosaic inlay olive green sea opal shell (sorry, they do look brown here but they are a lovely shade of green and the tiger eye frames them perfectly!) with tiger eye and copper.

Rhodonite pendant and chips.

Fire agate, mother of pearl and carnelian. The colors in this fire agate are much more vibrant than my photography shows.

Purple peace jasper, pale pink agate nuggets, and amethyst sage chaldencony pendant.

For Jennifer's Review -- and Yours Too!

2008-11-06T06:25:00.009-06:00

NOTE: If you double-click on the photo it will enlarge.

Jennifer, I've been holding the first bracelet for a customer who can't quite decide if she wants it. I'll check with her today. The beads on this one are all vintage. The dark beads are a deep plum color. The two larger glass beads are a pressed glass and they are a more gray color than clear. I found them in an antique store and fell in love!
Bracelet #2 is also all vintage. The bicone shaped beads look more blue in the picture but they are a very pretty shade of purple.

Bracelet #3 is also all vintage beads. The round faceted beads are a shade of purple too.

Bracelet #4 has pink/clear givre beads. The best to describe them is that it is a clear bead with the pink inside. I just can't even begin to describe them. They are some of my very favorite -- and these are almost the last of them.

I laid them all side by side for this photo.
Bracelet #5 - The accent beads in this bracelet are a light purple. All beads are vintage, including the gold fillagree.

I can show these to your mom tonight and she can give you a good idea of the colors. They are all very lovely -- and very shiny.

A couple more photos

2008-11-04T21:19:00.003-06:00

Catch Up?

2008-11-02T20:27:00.007-06:00

So, does anyone ever really get caught up or is it just something we talk about a lot - or in my case, obsess about a lot? A friend one time told me that I was always saying that as soon as I got past a certain busy time, or project, or whatever -- I'd have time to catch up and relax. She hadn't seen it happen yet and she had known me for about 10 years at that time.

I think about that often when I get overwhelmed with "busy" and try to mentally take a step back and truthfully look at the situation. I can get myself all kinds of stressed out about everything I am not getting done. The truth is, I do a lot of stuff. "Bored" is a word that just isn't in my vocabulary - at least not in the sense of bored because I don't have anything to do!

It's Sunday night and as I look at my to-do list for this weekend, I didn't get anywhere close to marking even half of the items off-- but I did get a lot done -- and I spent a great day in my pajamas yesterday making jewelry. I'll include a few photos here and I have updated the slide show. I had a great show a week ago and needed to replenish my inventory for next weekend.

Have a great week!

Love That Lasts

2008-10-07T07:13:00.002-05:00

I just love this bracelet and what it stands for. It was a custom design for a great-grandmother. Jim loves Ruby. The Swarovski crystals represenst the birth months of their seven children and their anniversary month.

Young love turned to mature, committed love through years of life experience - probably a lot of really harsh times along with the times of great joy. There are great rewards for standing firm on the commitments we make in marriage.

If you want to celebrate the love of someone special in your life, contact me and we will design the perfect representation. The Scrabble(R) tiles are a fun, fresh, new look (using something old that evokes great family memories!) but I also work with alphabet cubes for personalization.

Shades of Purple with Sardonyx and Gunmetal Chain

2008-10-06T07:09:00.002-05:00

Lemon-Lime

2008-10-03T21:03:00.002-05:00

Here is another fun bead that Karl chose!

Pretty in pink

2008-10-01T19:45:00.003-05:00

The pink/mauve foil lined glass focal bead and mauve crystal is very pretty with copper! Karl picked out this bead when we were bead shopping one day. He has a habit of adding strands of beautiful beads to my purchases that I have no idea what to do with! He has good taste though!

Slide Show

2008-10-01T07:33:00.002-05:00

I have lots of photos ready for the slide show -- just gotta find time to do it! If this is your visit - please come back for photo updates!

Fall Schedule

2008-10-01T06:44:00.004-05:00

I'm in a flurry this week trying to get all the final details worked out for my first show of the season. I've been working on a mailing and hope to get an e-mail out too. If you are not on my e-mail list and would like to be, please send me an e-mail and just ask -- it carries no obligations, I don't sell your name, etc. Just news and updates!

Saturday, October 4, I will be at the Stewart Elementary PTA 1st Annual Craft Show, 2123 Roach, Salina, KS from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Sounds like a great Girls' Day trip! I'm anxious to see a co-worker's wife's booth. I've been told that she makes really cute tote bags -- and next to beads I think bags ranks pretty high on my list of things I love!

Here is a photo of some Christmas Tree and Snowman earrings. They are Swarovski Crystal and Czeck Glass for the Snowman's snowballs. These are already proving to be popular. The Christmas Trees are gorgeous and the Snowman is just too darn cute! If you click on the picture it should enlarge for you. It is a bit flurry -- sorry about that -- remember, I don't claim to be a great photographer!

Hope to see you soon!

Vacation Creation

2008-08-31T16:07:00.003-05:00

Greetings! I've actually been designing some here and there this summer -- but haven't taken the time to photograph and post. I made this set with the butterfly pendant and wooden beads while on vacation in July. I'm currently working on some custom bridal designs for a March wedding and making several new things for fall shows. I added the slide show today (after much frustration with the computer!) The golden vase in the photograph was a 50th anniversary gift to my great grandparents -- I think they received it in 1949.

Great Photography - Check it Out!

2008-08-02T14:49:00.004-05:00

There is a link to the right of the page.

Plum Bazaar

2008-08-02T08:39:00.003-05:00

I love to find bead shops when I travel - for any reason! While recently in Branson we visited Plus Bazaar. Not only did we (yes, my hubby gladly shops with me -- he said he has always loved rocks!) enjoy shopping there, but we made a new friend. Susan and two of her sisters own the shop and also one in Emporia, KS. We visited on 3 different days and I learned a few new techniques and bought some really cool beads that I am anxious to incorporate into new designs for the fall. If you are ever in Branson, go check out Plum Bazaar. It is located at 123 Main which is at the bottom of a large hill in historic Branson -- and not too far from the fun, new Branson Landing. I love the name Plum Bazaar, but for me it might have to be Plum Bizaare because I am crazy about all shades of purple AND beads! Now, wonder when I might have a need to travel to Emporia?

Summer Craziness

2008-07-19T15:00:00.002-05:00

Well, we made it through another successful season of selling fireworks. Still have paperwork, inventory, and other fun stuff to do! I don't have much time for making jewery right now but wanted to post so everyone knew I was still alive and kicking!

New Clothes - New Jewelry - part 2

2008-06-17T07:00:00.005-05:00

This is the first set I made to go with the outfit mentioned below. It is black Mother of Pearl and Freshwater Pearls that have a little bit of irridescent purple. Earrings, necklace, and ankle bracelet. Click on the photos to see the detail better.

New Clothes - New Jewelry

2008-06-17T06:46:00.006-05:00

I LOVE being able to go to my studio and make something new to wear when I get a new outfit. Of course, this is the second set I've made to try out with a black and white skirt outfit I recently purchased! I was fighting boredom last night (the kind where you just don't WANT to do anything - I had plenty to do!) - guess I just needed to create. It wasn't boring at all! The small oval stones are Zebra Jasper, the large ovals are Picasso Jasper, and the white is Howlite.

Orange Crush

2008-06-17T06:31:00.004-05:00

The top photo is an ankle bracelet that is adjustable in size. The second photo is of a necklace, bracelet, and earrings that compliment the ankle bracelet. I'm still battling photo software (gotta love change - can't get it to edit without locking up now) - so I may change the photos once I figure out what I am doing with the software! The detail of the photos is much better if you click on them to enlarge.

I've been spending a little more time designing and that is always good to help relieve stress.

Done!

2008-06-06T20:45:00.003-05:00

Well, here it is - and it looks much better than the bits and pieces in my last post! I estimate that it took me 7-8 hours to make it (not including the time to learn the techniques, rip out and re-do mistakes, and interpret the pattern!) I purchased this kit with it in mind to make and give to a friend of mine. But, now I must decide if I will take apart and re-do the clasp because I know it is too big - or start all over and make another one. Hmm. I am sure the next one I make will not take nearly as long!

This project is great to take along for those times when you have a few minutes to fill here and there. It is made in several different components that are put together towards the end so you don't have to carry "everything" with you. It fits nicely in a little plastic travel soap box.

I'm glad I took the challenge as I am not nearly so fearful of seed beads anymore!

Learning Something New!

2008-05-20T19:22:00.003-05:00

I visited my mom in Oklahoma for Mother's Day weekend and on the way I stopped at a little bead shop in Bartlesville. While there I discovered that one of the owners was the designer of a gorgeous seed bead bracelet that was on the cover of Beadwork magazine. So, I bought a kit. I've not done much at all with seed beads. To be honest, I've been a little bit intimidated by them. But, how hard can it be? OK, not so hard once you figure out the stitch -- but boy, is it time consuming! I'm sure as I do it more I will get faster and my stitches will get more even, but one of those 4.5" pieces takes me 1/2 hour! (The bracelet has 9 of them.) I was surprised that the teeny tiniest beads were the easiest to work with. My bits and pieces don't look like much yet, but they have aspirations of looking like one of the bracelets shown below! My beads and flowers are brown and turquoise.

After I got to Mom's, I checked Stephanie's blog (PixieBug) and she had a new post on about The Whole Bead -- and that is where I was! I just thought that was really cool. Small world. Stephanie lives in Nebraska, I'm in Kansas, and The Whole Bead is in Oklahoma.

Maybe someday soon I will finish my bracelet and post a picture. It may be a while. I'm having a few technical difficulties these days with equipment (uugggh!) and have a really busy week and weekend coming up -- family visiting from out of town, wedding, graduation, Memorial Day service, and birthday cookout for our son. Then back to work on Tuesday and start all over again!

Magical Moments - Go Ahead and Write it Down!

2008-05-06T13:57:00.000-05:00

"The act of writing down a dream is a magical moment." Carla wrote that statement in response to a post I had written about dreams. Those words have really been sticking in my mind. I was going to write about the power of journaling but dreams are taking over! (For today anyway!)

I have been trying to read my list of dreams daily. It helps keep what I value as important at the front of my mind.

This past weekend I went about business as usual but found myself doing things that I normally don't find the time for. Sunday evening as I read my list of dreams I counted 12 dreams that my activities had moved me forward on. I didn't set out to work on 12 dreams-but it happened. I think it happened because I have been putting positve words in my mind instead if negative. I have a really bad habit if grumbling about how busy I get. Just putting a positive spin on that busy-ness and realizing how my activities are moving me toward my dreams has been amazing.

Want an example? One of my dreams is to teach. I realized after doing Sunday School and Girl Scouts that it really is not teaching chilldren. Not on a regular basis anyway, once in a while is OK. I mentor/teach a weekly class for unmarried, pregnant couples and that is fulfilling . I've taught Bible studies and enjoyed that. But, what I really love is teaching adults something that will not only educate them but inspire them to be better than they are in some area and to encourage them to do the same for other people. I love to learn and then share what I have learned with other people.

A couple days ago a supervisor asked me to do a brief inservice for my work group of 12 women on The Dream Manager that I wrote about recently. Today she called from a seninar she was attending and said the business woman next to her was interested in having me present to her office staff about a topic I had done at work several months ago. Isnt that awesome?! I think so and J just had to tell someone !

Have you written your list of 100 dreams yet? If not now, when?

What's Your Dream?

2008-05-01T05:54:00.003-05:00

I recently listened to a management audio book called, "The Dream Manager," by Matthew Kelly. It really got me to thinking and looking at my life. It is so easy to get caught up in the necessary everyday duties of life that we forget our dreams -- and maybe even forget we ever had dreams. When that happens we find ourselves living "quiet lives of desperation." What a description! The book is geared towards management and learning how to help employees recognized and fulfill their dreams -- the payoff is basically that they become more engaged in their careers in the process and there are lots of benefits to that.

I don't manage people anymore in my career, but I do have adult children, a husband, friends, am a leader at church and mentor young adults who find themselves in life situations where they can definitely use some dreams! One of the gifts I've been given is that of being an encourager. (When my son was 14 he told me I was like Barnabas - what a compliment!) What a great tool this book is! Not only a great tool for helping others - but a great tool for helping myself ('cuz if the well is empty, you can't give anybody water)!

One of the suggestions of the book is that you sit down and make a list of 100 of your dreams -- all in one sitting. I think the number 100 is key because it was really hard to even get started. I love making lists (sometimes that is a curse) but this was hard. I felt like #1 had to be the most important and the first one to accomplish. Wrong! By the time I got to about 85 some serious stuff started kicking in. It was a little like journaling -- it usually takes a bit of writing to get to the deep stuff! #100 may have been one of the most insightful for me -- "get out of ruts -- and stay out."

I am listening to the book again - in the car with my husband as we drive to work every day. He saw me typing my list into the computer and asked what it was. I told him he couldn't read my list until he made his own. I didn't want my dreams to influence his dreams. Not at this stage anyway - hopefully we will find that we have some of the same dreams. We are at a place where we need to dream again. Our children are raised and out of the home and we're pretty settled. We will be married 25 years in December. I'm excited to see where this leads!

It is kind of amazing to see people's first reaction to making a list of 100 dreams. I assigned this as homework to my class on Tuesday night too. They just looked at me with fear in their eyes at first. They are in some tough situations and the ideas of making a list of dreams is almost incomprehensible to them. I am exited for class next week.

I've started journaling about some of the dreams, determining if they are short-, mid-, or long-term, and researching to see what it will take to reach them. I've only on #3, but it is a start! Actually, I started in order down the list but I don't think I will continue going in order. One of the things I have realized is that I will have to work hard not to make this just another "to do" list. I often get to the point where my whole life feels like a huge "to do" list, just check it off and go to the next thing. That's not a very good way to live -- it's not living at all, it is just existing. I know that, but just knowing it doesn't always produce change!

I'd be interested to hear from you about this topic of dreams -- and I challenge you to make a list of 100 dreams of your own.

LIFE Bracelets

2008-04-28T20:10:00.002-05:00

I mentor a class of unmarried, pregnant couples at the Pregnancy Service Center in Salina. For about a month, my clients came to class an hour early and learned how to make this bracelet. (It was the first time they had done any beading and I had to make it bead weaving with two threads and needles!) It has been a very good way for them to learn to give back. We are selling the bracelets for $35. The materials were donated so all proceeds go towards supplies for the ultrasound machine that the center is in the process of obtaining. Did you know that approximately 90% of women who see their baby via ultrasound will choose LIFE for their baby?

The bracelets are very sparkly in baby blue and baby pink Preciosa cut crystal bicone beads, rhinestone montees, silver lined seed beads and sterling silver chain and clasp. They are beautiful. Unfortunately, the sparklier a piece of jewelry is - the more difficulty I have taking a really great photo:(

If you would like to purchase one, please contact me.

Nicholas Isaiah

2008-04-27T22:01:00.004-05:00

We have a new addition to our family. Nicholas Isaiah is our great nephew. He was welcomed home by his siblings - Gavin (8), Audra (3), and Gabriel (1.5). He is about 3 weeks old now. So tiny!

(That's me holding Nicholas. Uncle Karl didn't get any pics of Mommy - sorry Kat!)

Congratulations Kathryn and Matthew!

Copper & Pink Howlite

2008-04-27T21:49:00.003-05:00

Wow! It's been 4 months since I've posted. Guess that's the way life goes for me though -- just been extremely busy with other important things!

This 2-strand necklace converts to one strand and the pendant is removable. The copper swirl was made by Carla at Beads & Botanicals. I also got the pink howlite from her. The other copper and crystals came from here and there!

I had an assortment of beads out one Saturday morning when my son was home and as he was eating his breakfast (of course I had beads all over the table) I jokingly challenged him with the question, "What would you make with these beads?" Well, he took me up on the challenge and this neckace is what he came up with. I did the finishing, but the design is his.

The earrings are also made from "copper by Carla". I haven't been able to get a good photo of these yet - but I'll keep trying! My son's finance made them for me. I showed her the idea and she did the work.

A Love Story Bracelet

2007-12-15T14:32:00.000-06:00

I was asked to make this bracelet for a grandmother who has seven grown children. All of their birthstones are included - plus the month of her anniversary. She and grandpa (Jim & Ruby)have been married for lots of years and are still very much in love. I wasn't sure how I was going to incorporate the crystals and the Scrabble tiles - but I think it is charming.

I hope she likes it when she receives it as a gift from her grandson and his family. (And I sure hope she doesn't read this blog!) I love it when there is significant meaning and/or stories with the custom pieces I design for people.

Bloggers - please help!

2007-12-08T19:13:00.000-06:00

Do you know why some photos open up larger when clicked on and some don't? I can't seem to find the answer to this question. I post them all the same, but they are not all the same when they show up in the blog post!

Thanks so much in advance for your helpful hints!

Here are the bracelets.....

2007-12-08T18:54:00.001-06:00

Didn't have enough room in the post below for all the pictures. Here is just a sample of the bracelets.

Re-designed Blessings!

2007-12-08T18:25:00.000-06:00

Wow, it has been a while since I've posted. It has been a busy season. I am finished with jewelry shows for this holiday season. Today I just finished a project for a lady who wanted to share her jewelry with her family. She asked for 30 bracelets and I was able to make 56 for her to choose from. I'm posting them here for your enjoyment.

I love to do this for families. It is such a blessing for me to see families pass items down through the generations that are treasured (and used, not stuck in a box or a drawer). So much of the jewelry from years ago is something that people love to look at -- but will rarely wear. It is fun to re-design it into bracelets that even today's teens will wear.

I generally get these projects after a family member has died. I am so excited to do this one while the owner is alive and well. She will be so blessed - as will her family - by the gift she is giving. Lillian, I pray you have a richly blessed Christmas with your family:)

Enjoy the pictures! I've included some of the original pieces of jewelry.

Cherry Quartz and Shell

2007-10-18T07:20:00.000-05:00

Mahogany Obsidian, Sardonyx, Copper, Jet Swarvoski Crystal (and some other black)

2007-10-17T06:37:00.000-05:00

This is a very bold set. Very striking!

A pretty mix of beads

2007-10-11T06:48:00.001-05:00

This set has four different kinds of turquiose gems, round turquoise shell type beads, milk glass flowers and vintage crystal. Also a silver/marcasite/turquoise cross pendant. I love it. It just makes me happy to look at it!

Scrabble & Vintage

2007-10-07T20:28:00.000-05:00

I made these Scrabble necklaces this weekend. I used some vintage beads on some. I think R, J and L are my favorite. Oh, that's funny. Those are my daughter's initials!

Hazel

2007-10-06T06:26:00.000-05:00

Something about this one reminds me of one of my very best friends - my Grandma Hazel. I think it is the combination of the vintage beads and the freshness of the copper and the Botswana Agate gemstones. Grandma Hazel was a sweet Christian lady who was full of grace and unconditional love. She also had a lot of creativity and a quiet sense of humor. That little bit of spunk would just come out when least expected. She began to get forgetful her last several years in her home and one year at Christmas when we all got there she wasn't wearing her wig. I didn't think much of it because she often peeled that thing off when it was just us two anyway. But, as we gathered around the Christmas tree, one of the great grandkids spied her wig tucked inside the Christmas tree like a decoration. I don't think anyone pointed it out because no one wanted to embarrass her (but there was lots of stifled giggles). I can't even remember how she found it and what took place - knowing her she just brushed if off with an "oh, there's that thing" and put it back on her head (maybe even a little lopsided) and went on like it was nothing out of the ordinary. I never did know if she had lost the wig or if she was playing a joke on us. Grandma Hazel has been gone now for more than three years but her legacy lives on. What a wonderful gift from God she was to me!

Brazilian Rose Quartz & Sun Quartz

2007-10-05T05:57:00.000-05:00

This necklace, bracelet and earrings set is just plain fun. It combines the rougher sun quartz stones, mauvish purple glass beads and the vintage glass white cubes with mauve accents.

Tonight is high school football which means I will have the house to myself. I think it is a good night to do some organizing/labeling in the studio so I can spend a good part of tomorrow designing while Karl is in Manhattan at the K-State football game.

I had orders for 5 of the Scrabble necklaces at my last show and discovered how unprepared I was to make those on-site! We improvised though and got them done. Karl drilled the tiles for me - using the broken bit in the Dremel. I had a spare but didn't think about taking the little tool that opens the Dremel to change the bit! I am so power tool challenged! Sad, huh? So, this weekend I am going to spend some time getting ready -- pre-drilling several tiles of each letter, cutting the cord to length and finishing one end with the clasp, making up coordinating sets of beaded dangles so I don't have to do the wire wrapping on-site except for the actual tile and beads that go with it. All some of that prep work that takes a lot less time when you do it in batches than one at a time!

I also did not think about taking the pony beads that work great as spacers because I do not use them in anything (left overs from Girl Scouts!). I didn't have any beads with me with holes large enough for the cord - so I had to get creative (good thing we do that well isn't it??) and make some wire wrapped spiral spacers. They turned out pretty cute!

Have a great Friday - the weekend is coming!

Egyptian Lapis Lazuli & Copper

2007-10-04T06:15:00.001-05:00

So, what do you think about the copper?

Red & Brown Amazonite with Copper

2007-10-03T06:12:00.000-05:00

Another pretty set that reflects the beautiful colors of fall.

African Jade, Russian Japer, Botswana Red Carnelian

2007-09-30T06:53:00.000-05:00

This necklace drapes beautifully when worn. I really like this design too. It is more light and airy than most of the gemstone sets.

I had someone ask me the other night if I got my ideas off the Internet or if I came up with the designs on my own. Just in case you are curious about that too, each design is my own. (I love to look at magazines and catalogs and fellow designers' websites because I pick up bits of inspiration from all kinds of places.) I'm never quite sure what I will come up with when I sit down at the bead board in my studio. In fact, I am unable to go shopping for beads to make a specific design. It would take me hours just to pick out the beads and then when I got them home, I probably would not even use them for the intended project (unless of course, you have commissioned me to custom design something for you and that is what you picked out!). So, I am always searching out beautiful or unique beads. If I love the bead, I know I will eventually use it. Sometimes I have an idea when I choose the bead, and sometimes I don't. I am usually surprised and delighted at what takes form when I sit down to design -- hence the name of my business -- Delightful Treasures.

I rarely ever produce any two pieces alike. When that does happen it is usually because someone has asked for matching pieces. When you purchase jewelry from Delightful Treasures you can be assured that you have a one-of-a-kind piece. I always tell the customer up front if that is not the case.

Botswana Agate & Vintage Pink Givre Beads

2007-09-29T05:32:00.000-05:00

(Click on picture to enlarge it.)

And, here is another. I really must get off the computer and get ready to go!

African Turquoise Nuggets & German Silver Beads

2007-09-29T05:28:00.000-05:00

Couldn't resist posting another picture before I get ready to load the car!

Copper Dream

2007-09-28T19:22:00.001-05:00

That's not really the name of this set - but I don't have one for it yet! Karl strongly urged me to invest in copper while in California and I am glad he did. Isn't it lovely?

I'm working feverishly tonight to finish getting everything together for the show in Ellsworth tomorrow. The first show of the season is always the hardest - after that the list is made and it is just a matter of checking things off.

If you're in Ellsworth tomorrow for the Great American Cattle Drive, be sure to stop by and see us.

"Lynda"

2007-09-27T06:40:00.000-05:00

This beautiful necklace, bracelet and earring set is named "Lynda" and has been sold. I just had to post a photo here though - it is one of my favorites. Of course, any of you who know me know that I love the pinks/mauves! I've been trying to figure out the best way to take a photo. Jewelry is HARD! If you have any tips, please pass them along! I have a show in Ellsworth this Saturday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. It is part of the Great American Cattle Drive. We will be in the Ellsworth City Hall, 121 West First.

Purple Crazy Lace Agate & Amethyst

2007-09-20T22:15:00.000-05:00

Here is a picture of a jewelry set I made with some of the treasures I found in California. Watch for more designs in the next several days -- I'm spending more time designing than on the computer these days -- getting ready for upcoming fall shows.

Stay tuned -- when I get my camera figured out again I'll take some more pictures. I had worked to find the perfect settings and just thought I'd remember what I did -- Ha Ha! Now I get to figure it out all over again!

Be Blessed!

Scrabble Charm Bracelet

2007-08-26T21:58:00.000-05:00

Here is a picture of a Scrabble charm bracelet that I made for a friend. The turquoise and brown beads are recycled vintage beads.

Happy 1st Birthday Gabe!

2007-08-11T09:14:00.000-05:00

We celebrated our great nephew's 1st birthday last night. His big sister is 2 and his big brother is 7. They ALL loved his new toys! There was plenty to go around but they all wanted to play with the same toy at the same time. Ever wonder why that is? Must be something about this human nature of ours that doesn't want to miss out on what someone else is doing!

Anyone Have Any San Diego Travel Tips?

2007-08-04T07:09:00.000-05:00

We're planning a trip later this month to San Diego to go to our nephew's graduation from Marine Corps boot camp and are a taking several extra days "just for us." We're not that interested in the big attractions -- Sea World, San Diego Zoo, Lego-land, etc. - but are rather looking for the more out of the way things that are unique to San Diego. We may even drive up the coast or into the mountains.

If you have been there and have some hints or suggestions, please post them.

Magnets and Watches - Warning!

2007-08-02T19:23:00.001-05:00

I have been making quite a few bracelets with magnetic clasps. I love them and so do my customers. But, I have also been having trouble for the past year or so with any wristwatch I wear losing time. I can lay them on the dresser and leave them for a week and they will keep perfect time. Within several hours of wearing one, it will lost 15-20 minutes. I was talking to a jeweler tonight and he was telling me about his dad who seemed to have more of a magnetic field around him and couldn't wear a watch at all. I looked down and saw the bracelet I always wear on the wrist with my watch and it has a magnetic clasp on it. (I immediately moved the bracelet to the other wrist.) He seemed to think that often times the damage to the watch is permanent. I think I'll test my watches and see what happens when I wear them without the bracelet on that wrist. He suggested that I take my watch off whenever I am working with magnets.

In addition, he also told me that the people at the jewelry counters in discount stores ruin a lot of watches because they are not properly trained to replace watch batteries. He said it doesn't take much to touch the insides of a watch wrong and mess it all up -- they don't always stop running altogether, they just do things like lose time, etc.

Thought I'd just pass that information on. I'm hoping it solves my problem with wrist watches! I suppose a little time will tell.

Christopher is home - for a little bit!

2007-08-01T07:25:00.000-05:00

For those of you who know Christopher, I thought you might like to see some pictures.

Chris got home on a Saturday night and we were at the dealership in Junction City first thing Monday morning to pick up his new car.

This past Sunday evening we had a gathering in our backyard for food and fellowship with family and some of his friends. His girlfriend, Susan, provided the banner. Karl set up the tents in case of rain and we had a good time. It was pretty humid and damp but didn't rain until everything was put away.

When you get the Leech kids together, there are always games. Bowling and Dutch Blitz (I think that is the name of the card game) were hits.

That's Gavin and Audra (our great nephew and neice.)

Chris will be home a few more days before he heads back across the ocean.

Scrabble anyone?

2007-08-01T07:08:00.000-05:00

A co-worker asked me if I could make her a Scrabble tile bracelet. I took on the challenge and here is what I created. There are 5 tiles and that is really all that will fit on this style of bracelet due to the width of the tiles (which are now beads because of the drilled holes). More could be put on a bracelet if they were charms instead of beads. Bracelets like this one (custom tiles and color choices) will sell for $15.

I also made a Scrabble tile necklace. This one has a vertical hole drilled through it. These necklaces will also be custom orders - choose the tile and the colors and the number of dangles. The cost is $5 for one tile and $1.25 for each side dangle. So, the one shown in the picture would cost $10. The cords are adjustable. I will also have different colored cords.

Wouldn't this be a fun back-to-school gift for your favorite girl?

I do wish there were tiles with numbers on them. How fun would it be to spell out phrases like the personalized license plate tags? You can do it with just letters but the options are a bit more limited - you have to get really creative!

If you are a beader and want to design your own jewlery but don't want to invest in the Dremel and the drill stand, I will sell drilled tiles to you (and direction holes you want). Just contact me.

I'm anxious to hear what you think about the Scrabble tile jewelry.

Testimonials

2007-08-01T07:06:00.000-05:00

If you have something to say about Delightful Treasures - this would be the place. Boy, I'm leaving that wide open - hope you have something good to say!

Getting Started

2007-06-29T07:27:00.000-05:00

This is a test.