Kindle or Nook .... I'd still rather a BOOK

When they make the Kindle smell and feel like a real book, I may be tempted to purchase one as it certainly would make moving easier (last time I moved, some 20 boxes were just books alone) and free up a lot of shelf space.

.... then again, maybe not. There just isn't, and never will be, anything like holding a book in your hand. The smell of the pages (especially that wonderful perfume of age), the feeling of them flipping through your fingers, the sound the pages make as they are turned .... nope, nothing can ever replace that.

Boogie woogie bugle boy ...

I have been really into the 1940's for some reason these past few months. Swing music, flouncy skirts and headwear have taken center stage and I've channeled this into my knitting, crochet and even sewing.

I have some new items that I've put up for sale (with more coming) ...

And then some that I'm not sure I can part with, like this hat:

All were made from this wonderful 1940's crochet pattern book. I'm eyeing this sweet pair of gloves to tackle next.

Swing on!

And now back to our regular scheduled program ....

Back in step with the theme of my blog .... I have found a new love : Electro-swing!

Take the foot tapping big band swing sound, add some modern touches and voila.

This explains it very well ....

http://motherjones.com/mixed-media/2011/06/caravan-electro-swing-boom-steampunk

Once you hear it, you're gonna get hooked for sure - I know I am!

Happy dancing!

Cranes and bracelets and Japan relief ... oh my!

The cranes event was amazing and wonderful! Hundreds of cranes were folded and so far I have about 700 strung. I will be collecting more cranes today and finishing the senbazuru this weekend with plans to ship the package out early next week.

With my attentions so focused on the cranes these past 2 weeks, I've taken a short hiatus from the Japan relief bracelets. But today I finally had a few spare moments to myself and sent another donation to the Red Cross Japan disaster relief fund

..... The total amount, as of today, donated from AmiKami sales is : $1,030 !!!!

This has been a wonderful experience for me to be able to do so many things, include so many people in efforts for helping a country so very close to my heart. Thank you so much, everyone, for all your support!!

Operation : Senbazuru of Hope

I've been so busy this past week getting ready for the big day! Operation Senbazuru of Hope - 1,000 Cranes for Japan is underway and we have already made hundreds of cranes.

The community support and efforts for this non-fundraising relief effort for

Japan has been wonderful. The grand finale will be on Tuesday, May 3rd when people and kids from all over Big Bear are coming together to make cranes, write messages of hope and string the senbazuru. Then, the package of love and prayer will be shipped directly to people who survived the earthquake and tsunami.

It is going to be an amazing day!

Amikami Japan Disaster Relief Fundraising UPDATE .... and more!

Elementary school children together for the
first time since the March 11 earthquake.
(AP Photo/Yomiuri Shimbun, Miho Ikeya)

I can't believe it, but I have just received enough bracelet orders to exceed the $1,000 donation goal! But I've decided I'm not stopping now, and I am not making any more goals ... the sky's the limit!

I've been so deeply touched and encouraged by the phenomenal response I've received since I began my fundraising efforts. I'm am also so inspired by outpouring of support all over to help Japan in this desperate time.

I am currently working on a new Japan project, but not a fundraiser this time. I am working with my friends, students and community in the small town where I live in to make 1,000 cranes to send to Japan. I'm not certain of who the recipients will be exactly, but I'd like to send them to a school I recently read about - Okawa Elementary.

This small school was in a town completely destroyed by the tsunami. Only 34 of the 108 students and 1 teacher out of 12 survived. The school year is beginning in Japan and on April 21, the remaining students will be using classrooms in another school to start their year as the rest of the country does. It made me so sad, but to think of their courage and strength to continue on is so inspiring. I would like to send them something to show them that even 5,000+ miles away, there are people thinking of them and praying for them.

I'll post more on this as it starts coming together. I have already had such an enormous response to this plan, I know it will be a wonderful thing!

Another donation made today!!!

I am so excited to announce that I made another donation to the Red Cross for Japan disaster relief today in the amount of $280!!

That means the total donations from the Japan relief bracelet sales is $520. Yes, that means I've met my goal .... but that was the OLD goal. New goal is $1,000 and I already have enough orders to put me well on the way of achieving that.

100% of the sale price of these bracelets are being donated to the Red Cross. The bracelets can be purchased through my Etsy shop at www.amikami.etsy.com.

Also would like to thank Shino for posting my Japan relief bracelet on her blog: http://beautifuladdiction-shino.blogspot.com/ where she is showcasing relief efforts and showing support to Japan. Beautiful!

Thanks to all for support of this cause and keep praying for Japan!

In the local news

There is a wonderful article in the Big Bear Grizzly today about the bracelet sales for Japan disaster relief. A huge thank-you to my wonderfully supportive friends and coworkers!

My goal is $500, but I'd be thrilled to see it go beyond that. The bracelets are $10 each and 100% of that will be donated to the Red Cross specifically for Japan disaster relief.

The bracelets can be purchased at www.amikami.etsy.com.

The quarter million people - elderly, children, broken families - that have been left homeless because of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami are still living in makeshift shelters and struggling not only for survival, but with the emotional scars left from this horrific disaster. These are strong, hard-working and were self-sufficient people who have lost everything. Every bit of support we can show from outside Japan helps bring hope for the future of these people.

Thank you and keep praying for Japan. ♥ 日本のために祈る ♥

Red Cross Donation!

I am very happy to announce I made my first donation to the Red Cross for Japan disaster relief since starting my personal campaign making bracelets to support this important cause.

I have never done anything like this before and was apprehensive in the beginning as to how effective I, as a small individual, could be. I woke up on the morning of March 17 with this idea and a week later have donated over twice what I thought I'd be capable of raising.

I have an enormous amount of gratitude for all those who have supported my efforts and purchased bracelets. There are about a quarter MILLION Japanese people who have lost everything (family, property, livelihood) and are currently still, after 2 weeks, living in makeshift shelters with little hope for their future. 10,000 bodies have been recovered, about that many more are still missing. They are proud and strong, but still at this time are in need of help. Let's all do what we can and together help them to recover.

Bracelets are $10 each and 100% goes to the Red Cross for Japan disaster relief. Bracelets can be purchased HERE. You can also follow the fundraising progress on the AmiKami Facebook page : http://www.facebook.com/pages/AmiKami/111971105499272

Thank you and keep praying for the victims of the Japan earthquake and tsunami!

Please help support Japan earthquake relief!

It has been a very very long time since I've blogged .... wow, I hadn't realized HOW long until now! But I am back and with a very important message.

I am trying to help raise money to donate to the Red Cross to help the victims of the Japan earthquake and tsunami.

Japan has a very special place in my heart. I have family and friends there and my children are half Japanese. I was horrified at the devastation and deeply saddened by the tremendous loss of lives.

I cannot write a check for $1m, or join the rescue efforts over there, but I want to do what I can. Even if it is just a little bit, I think it is every little bit that makes a huge difference.

So, I started selling these bracelets in my Etsy shop for $10 and will donate the entire $10 to the Red Cross.

I have sold 12 ($120) . . . but my goal is to sell 50.

The bracelets are crocheted from a vintage lace pattern in 100% cotton thread and is secured with a sparkly Swarovski crystal button.

A tiny red glass heart is attached with a jump-ring as a reminder to keep praying for the victims of the Japan earthquake and tsunami.

Red symbolizes courage, the heart is for love and your donation brings hope.

These bracelets can be made in a variety of colors to suit your taste and in a size to fit you perfectly.

Please help me reach this goal - purchase a bracelet, spread the word and together we can make a difference!

Thank you and keep praying for Japan!

Catching up

I haven't been blogging for a long time and have missed it! But I've been so busy with work, kids, daily life and crocheting my fingers to the bone!

So, I thought I would post a few photos of

items that I've recently listed and some soon to be ...

This is from a custom order I did.

It was made from a 1940s pattern.

And now for the darker side of Amikami ..... just in time for All Hallow's Eve.

This is my first Steampunk piece - considering the response I've had since listing it, I think I

will make lots more!

This is something that is coming soon!

I still have many many more in the works, so it may be a while before I can post again (although I will endevour to be more diligent!) so I appreciate your patience (^o^)/

Fancy Work Wednesday - back in style!

So, a lot has been going on in my neck of the woods and this summer has proven to be anything but a break. I have been wanting to get back into regular posting and what better way than with a Fancy Work Wednesday!

The shop is Southron Creations and owned by Heather, a phenominal seamstress with an eye for 1800's style. Upon discovery of this beautiful shop, I felt like I had just met a kindred spirit and knew right away I wanted to feature her on my blog.

And without further ado, here is more about Heather, in her own words . . . . .

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Q. Tell us a little about yourself.

A. My name is Heather Sheen. I’m in my early 30s and don’t ask me where I’m from originally – we moved most of my growing up years! However, I have now spent over 10 years in beautiful South Carolina so I can officially say I’m from HERE now. You know how old timers want to know where you family is from? Well, when I did some family research, I found out that our ancestors were pretty illustrious in this area and they actually owned the farm down the road from us. Is that serendipitous or what? So I can say my family is from here too (um, about 6 generations back! LOL)

Q. How long have you been interested in the fashions of the mid 1800s?

A. My grandparents in Texas have been into Civil War reenacting for around 15-20 years. When our family moved to South Carolina, they suggested we “meet in the middle” at a reenactment in Tennessee. And they further suggested that if we made authentic Civil War outfits, we could attend as reenactors.

Well, we were just amateur seamstresses at the time, but no one told us that making Civil War dresses is hard so we just dived right in. There was much “weeping and gnashing of teeth” but we got those outfits done, by golly! The funny thing was, it turned out we were some of the most authentic lady reenactors at that event! Ever since then, we’ve been addicted to studying more about the era and improving our impressions as ladies of the 1860s. We all love history and continue to attend reenactments as a family and still meet my grandparents at them too.

Q. How long have you been sewing? Did you learn on your own or from someone special?

A. My mom absolutely hated sewing, but she knew the basics and taught my sister and I. We had goofed around with simple things like elastic-waist skirts and doll clothing as we were growing up. But it wasn’t until the reenacting bug bit us that we decided to seriously learn to sew. We are mostly self-taught, but we’re not afraid to pick the brains of other reenactresses who know way more than we do!

Q. What made you decide to open a shop on Etsy?

A. I had a friend who had an Etsy shop and I loved looking at her dresses. Several people in town had already asked me to sew some items for them and I thought, “Hey, I could open an Etsy shop too!”

Q. Do you sell anywhere other than Etsy?

A. Other than to friends, I haven’t tried selling anywhere else. I have lots of big ideas for the future though….

Q. What kinds of things do you like to shop for on Etsy?

A. I like looking at vintage items (duh!) and it’s fun to look at all the stunning jewelry pictures. I also like looking at the clothing shops and seeing what trends are happening so I can better market myself.

Q. What is your vision for the future of Southron Creations?

A. At the moment, this is still in the “fun hobby” stage. One year ago, I would never have imagined myself even having a sewing shop! So I am very curious to see where the Lord will lead me next. I may look into selling at Civil War reenactments,

or I may stick to local custom orders and my Etsy shop. We’ll see what works out.

____________________________________________

She also does custom versions of all the items in her Etsy store. So if you don't see your size or would like something special added to a garment, let her know and she'd be happy to work with you.

The Civil War era dresses she makes are stunning, but she does not sell them on Etsy since they need to be custom fitted to the lady. But if you are local to her area and would be available for fittings, contact her at her Etsy store or through her Facebook page or Blog:

www.facebook.com/southroncreations

www.southroncreations.blogspot.com

Thank you so much, Heather, for your wonderful interview and letting me feature you on my blog. I'm so glad to have met you and look forward to seeing all the wonderful items you create!

Lazy summer afternoon ends with a jolt

Here I am, lazing about this afternoon, sipping lemonade and listening to Ruth Etting. I close my eyes and imagine the cars driving by are Lexingtons or Ford Model Ts and the music is not coming from my iPod, but from a General Electric Radiola.

Then suddenly, I am rudely jolted from my bliss by an earthquake. Ahhhhh, gotta love Southern California - never a dull moment.

Happy 234th birthday USA!!

Hope everyone enjoys a safe and wonderful Independence Day holiday.

If there were cellphones 125 years ago, then the ladies would no doubt carry them in lacy reticules.

So, why not today? These bags were so feminine and beautiful, I just couldn't resist making a few. Here are two that I just listed on Etsy for sale. There is one more, done with black netting and a dark plum lining, that I will be listing soon.

Depending on feedback, I may make some more!

Back online!! .... and coming soon.

Well, my computer crashed and I went without for quite a while. Now, although I do cherish the days-gone-by, I hate to admit that I am rather attached to my computer and it is an essential part of life today.

Happily, I sit before my brand new laptop and am able, once again, to partake of the virtual world!

I haven't been sitting idle, however, during this electronic-down-

time. No, indeed! I have been

very busy working on new pieces and did a photo shoot a week ago. I am now preparing for some new listings.

Here's a sneak peek at what's going up

on Etsy very soon ......

Well, the end of the school year is suddenly upon us - where did the year go?!?

With working a new job and all the end-of-the-year activities I'm involved with at my boys' schools, among other obligations, I am putting the Fancy Work Wednesday feature on hold for a few weeks. It'll be back, though, and during the hiatus I'll be on the prowl for a fabulous artist to feature (^:^)/

Update on the reticules : I have a couple completed and a couple more in mid-production. I hope to be able to start listing these real soon. Also, spent some time with friends today who have offered some amazing ideas and inspiration, so more cool things are processing in my R&D department. I'm very excited for the summer selections I'll be making available.

Happy Tuesday, all!

It's time once again for Fancy Work Wednesday! Today's featured artist is Amy Cantini, who's shop Things I Like on Etsy is filled with .... well, things I like!

I first met Amy in the Etsy Forums and when I saw her cemetery photos, I knew I had found a kindred spirit and new favorite shop. She does a variety of things, but her shop is so cohesive and has a very romantic Victorian feel to it. Please read on to learn more about this unique and truly talented artist:

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Interview with Amy Cantini

Q. Tell me a little about you (ie. name, age, where you are from, etc.)
A. My name is Amy Cantini and I am 35 years old, had to think about that for a minute. I am living in Fernandina Beach, Florida. I've been here since 1991. I used to have a real job where someone paid me every week. I miss working for other people. Now I am a stay at home mom. I have two beautiful sons who keep me quite busy. I love them beyond measure, but they don't pay me as well as my former employer. So I make jewelry and take pictures in the hopes of providing them with something extra now and then. My husband is a chef at the Ritz-Carlton and with his being the only paycheck for our family, I wanted to try to contribute to the finances in some small way.

Q. How long have you been doing photography? Where/from whom did you learn it?
A. Officially since October 24, 2009. Unofficially since I started making jewelry, because I had to photograph my items for my listings on Etsy. I have absolutely no formal training. It's all been trial and error.

Q. How did you get started in jewelry making? What made you decide to combine photography and jewelry?
A. I got started in jewelry making on a whim. I was bored and my sewing machine was on the outs. I was also playing with power tools in the garage, but the scrap wood ran out and on my way to the hardware store, I passed a new bead shop. I had remembered some jewelry we sold at a shop I used to work in. The shop had long since closed and similar jewelry was nowhere to be found. I figured it couldn't be too difficult, so I purchased some supplies and gave it a go. Funny thing is, I don't make anything like what I was looking for in the first place. Combining the two was easy transition once I found a particular supply. Initially, I purchased them just for ornaments but the more slender size, I felt, was perfect for pendants. It also makes the shop a bit more cohesive. I do plan to introduce yet another pendant style very soon.

Q. Where do you find inspiration?
A. Everywhere, in books and movies, in antique stores. Outside in the world. In a cemetary. In old iron works and glass, in stone and fabric. It's difficult to pin down one source. I especially find it in other Artists creations lampwork artists specifically. Their creations are one of a kind, and I can't help but add my little twist to them. Maybe inspiration finds me...yes, I think that must be what happens.

Q. What has been your experience with Etsy?
A. Etsy has been quite a pleasant experience overall. It's not for the faint of heart though, that's for sure. It's the hardest and most rewarding thing I've ever done...except for motherhood ofcourse. There's such a wonderful community of artists and artisans and vintage and supply sellers and they are all so helpful and warm hearted and wonderful. It's a virtual family and I can't describe it any other way. Someone always willing to give advice or a pep talk and a dose of reality. It is in all ways just like a family. Sales come at a snail's pace for me, but I appreciate each and every customer no matter how few or far between. I have had the pleasure of filling two custom orders. One for a bride, the other for a fellow jewelry seller. I am very excited to see her creations.

Q. What kinds of things do you like to shop for on Etsy?
A. This is where I get in trouble. I shop for vintage shoes and glass bottles, custom jewelry, handcrafted jewelry, fabric, beads and findings, gifts...loads and loads of things, and I have the feedback to prove it. Wine crates and display and packaging items. I'm sure I'm leaving something out. Vintage hardware, and lotions and soaps. I have my eye on some perfume, chocolates and a real corset too.

Q. Outside of your work/Etsy shop, what hobbies and interests do you have?
A. Is there life outside of Etsy...I had no idea. Kidding :) I watch TV and take care of my home, laundry, dishes, yard. All that exciting stuff. I plan to take a trip or two this summer. Not far mind you, just to Savannah, GA and maybe St. Augustine. I really want to check out their cemetaries. I've heard they have some awesome angel statues. My favorite subject to photograph.

Q. What are your future plans for your art/shop?
A. Why, to be so busy with orders that I just can't keep up. Wishful thinking maybe. I think I just plan to keep adding new items and hopefully filling some custom orders. I love to do custom work. Most everything in my shop is one of a kind. I don't state that anywhere in my shop, maybe I should. If it's not one of a kind it is very limited edition. Like two of an item. I feel that makes it special. I did get a new sewing machine, and I have a mannequin on the way, so you never really know what will turn up. The shop name is Things I Like, so I'm open to anything.

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Thank you so much, Amy! Wonderful interview and I can't wait to see what you will be doing next (^:^)

A Flurried End to the Weekend

I awoke this morning to snow and immediately considered a new plan to just stay in today, build a fire in the fireplace and work quietly on my new crochet designs I've been envisioning. Baking some cookies also seems perfect (the boys agree).

It's been a long and very chaotic week. I started a new job that I am thrilled about - but even though it is only part-time, it's taken a bit of effort to rearrange my life around it. Everything will work out, I'm sure, as it always does.

On Friday, the kids and I went to cheer on the Amgen cyclists when they made their 135 mile trek up the mountain and into our little town for Stage 6 of the race. That was a long, but fun afternoon.

Yesterday, we did some shopping and then went to see "Shrek Forever After". I had read some pretty harsh reviews of this movie and was a little apprehensive about going, but I'm glad I did. I really enjoyed it and don't agree with the points that apparently displeased the critics.

Shrek is a huge favorite in our house (no, we don't ONLY watch silent films - LOL!) and, I felt, the movie was in keeping with the previous three. The story line was well planned out and thought-provoking: ie. Be careful what you wish for - it just might come true! It was funny, but sad in spots too. The big point was lost on my kids, however, it got me right in the heart - and did bring a few tears to my eyes at the end. That said, the boys still thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait to see it again. Since the film has just been released this weekend, I shall say no more - don't want to write anything that will spoil the fun for anyone who hasn't seen it yet (^:^)/

So, now here I am, watching the snow falling outside and relishing this quiet time. Tomorrow starts another hectic week, so this is a good thing for sure!

Be sure to check back on Wednesday for the Featured Artist of the week. I already have that post ready to roll and you won't be disappointed!

This week's Fancy Work Wednesday Featured Artist is Jenn of Ichiban Joyas. What she does with polymer clay is truly wonderous and I adore her pieces. I have dabbled with clay and can understand her love of it - it can be very addictive. But I have never been able to do what she can and especially at such a small scale. Read her interview and definately stop by her shop - I know you'll be enchanted, too.

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Ichiban Joyas - interview with Jenn:

Q. Tell me a little about you.

A. My name is Jenn Ramirez and I am 29 years old. I grew up mainly in the San Diego area, but spent a few years in the Inland Empire. I spent most of my career in the social service field, and I am thinking I might go a little further, and get a Masters in Clinical Psychology. I love reading, love watching movies, love animals, love music, and have found a new love in Yoga.

Q. How long have you been making jewelry? Where/from whom did you learn it?

A. I have been making jewelry for about two years now. It's something that is still fairly new to me, and I learn something new everyday. My mom is the one that got me started on jewelry making and I learned a lot from her.

Q. How did you get started working with polymer clay?

A. I started working with polymer clay right about the time I started to learn how to make jewelry. I used to collect a lot of Japanese mini plastic food items and turn them into necklaces and such. Then one day, I figured that I could make my own charms. So I picked up a package of clay and the obsession began. :)

Q. What inspires you?

A. I am inspired by everything. My items are created based on the mood I'm in, a movie I watched, or even a particular favorite song. I have to keep a pen and paper with me at all times just to be able to write down ideas, and boy do I have lists of them!

Q. What has been your experience selling on Etsy?

A. I ABSOLUTELY adore Etsy! It has been such a great home for my shop. I love getting an email and seeing that I sold something. It's a great feeling knowing someone out there has given me a chance to share my work with them. I'm fairly new to the community, but sales have been good so far. I love being surrounded by so many talented artists and seeing what they are doing with their creativity.

Q. What kinds of things do you like to shop for on Etsy?

A. Lately, I have been on a shopping spree. My most current purchases have been beauty products, chainmaille jewelry, and a new bag. I like to check out other Etsy shops everyday to see what I can add to my collection of handmade items.

Q. Outside of your work/Etsy shop, what hobbies and interests do you have?

A. When I'm not working with polymer clay, I am usually making a 3-D origami piece. Where your standard origami swan takes one sheet of paper, your 3-d swan can take 500 or more pieces of paper. Though they are extrememly time consuming, the final product is worth it. In addtion, I do a little amateur photography on the side. I don't sell my photos though. If I take a really good photo, I usually just frame it myself and keep it in my home. It's nice to walk by a beautiful moment in time.

Please add links to any blogs, FB, Twitter, etc. accounts for Ichiban Joyas

To get the most up to date information on my items, become a fan on facebook:http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ichiban-Joyas/190003832236

You can find me on Etsy of course:) http://ichibanjoyas.etsy.com

You can follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/IchibanJoyas

You can follow me on my blog: http://ichibanjoyas.blogspot.com/

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Are those fortune cookies not the cutest? I just love them!

Thank you, Jenn! You are so talented and sweet, and I'm happy to have met you (^:^)/ . . . . Now I've got a hankering to get my polymer clay back out to play!