Alive and Kicking

Well, it's time for my annual re-boot. It's been about a year since I've posted, and I have a very good reason--at least I think it's a good reason. I've dedicated this past year to being a good grandma and taking care of Baby Ben. Born last August, his parents ended up needing a fulltime babysitter and letting someone else do it was not my idea of a good thing, so volunteer I did to give up a year tending Ben. Such a rewarding time--I've loved every minute, but there was no energy left for much else and especially not a messy workroom full of beads and baubles to play with in fits and starts. Finally though, a friend opening a boutique, shook me out of my stupor and motivated me to work up a small line of Southwest inspired work for her little shop on the way to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. Now, of course, my mind is awash with new ideas, and I'm trying to find balance between beads and baby, and everything else in my life. We'll see how long it lasts!

You may have noticed a trend here--my obsession with turquoise. It's been a long time, but I'm glad to be back playing with beads for today and we'll see what tomorrow brings!

CONGRATULATIONS

Congrats Norma, you've won the holiday bracelet from my drawing and Mandy, you're the runner up and will be getting something too.   Seems it wasn't a difficult decision---there were only two of you!  I'm afraid I've managed to lose all my followers with my comings and goings the past two years---so thanks to you two for hanging in there.  Norma, email me your address to rspv@aol.com and I'll get your bracelet right out to you.  Mandy, I think I have yours here somewhere for your winning.   Love you gals!

                                             THANKS FOR PLAYING THE GAME! 

Black Friday Sale in my Etsy store....one day only

Black Friday Sale in my etsy store...use coupon code CYBER for 30% off all purchases for one day only!  www.rickitic.etsy.com

Only a few days left to enter my give away that ends this coming Monday....see post below for details.

Winter Wonderland Holiday Drawing

Yes, as promised I have a little something to giveaway this month to thank you for dropping by.  I'm going to have a drawing on Monday, November 26th of this artisan lampwork and sterling silver Winter Wonderland bracelet. 

All you need to do to enter the drawing is to pin one of my designs from my etsy store to your pinterest....or like me on my rickie voges design facebook page.  See the links on the right side of my blog.  Once you've done that, please let me know with a comment here on my post to let me know what you've done.  One entry per action---in other words, if you pin several of my designs on your pinterest boards, then let me know---one entry per pin, one entry per like on facebook.  That's all!  I'll let you know Monday, the 26th who the lucky winner is.  ENJOY!

Gratitude

November is a month to reflect on all my blessings.  Today is my birthday, don't ask which one, please!  And I'm grateful for another year of life to enjoy my wonderful family--husband, children, grandchildren ( yes I now have 2 beautiful grandsons!), my parents (both are still alive, how blessed am I), sisters, neices and nephews and incredible friends.  It is also the month of Veterans day when we remember so much that has been sacrificed by our progenitors to provide us with this wonderful land of liberty and opportunity--how grateful I am for their courage and willingness to serve their fellow countrymen, and even die if necessary to preserve our precious freedoms.  My mother in law and husband, and a neice also have birthdays this month--I love and am grateful for each one of them.  At the top of the list goes my husband--a more trustworthy, honorable and loving man you won't find anywhere.  He also happens to be alot of fun to be around--just ask his children and grandchildren if you don't believe me!  Last but not least, this is the month we Americans celebrate Thanksgiving and reflect on those hardy, first European immigrants who came here for religious freedom and opportunity, and to reflect on the blessings in our lives.  It would take pages to count my blessings, so i've just hit a few highlights that especially come to mind today.  Make your own list--it will make you feel better, more hopeful, and realign your perspective if it needs a little adjusting.

Mason and Boompa

So, to celebrate I have a little sale going on in my etsy store--take 15% off everything between now and Thanksgiving weekend--just use coupon code GIVETHANKS at checkout for your discount.  Plus, I'm going to have a giveaway on the website to thank YOU, so come back next Tuesday for details.

VOTE PLEASE

Just VOTE your conscience.  It's not only a right, but a responsibility.  A wise history teacher once told me that I have no right to complain if I don't participate. 

                                                                 GOD BLESS AMERICA!

It's Been A Busy Week and a Heavenly One

 Yep, I've been just a little pre-occupied this week.  Last Saturday morning this little guy decided to make an early arrival into our lives.  Only three weeks early, and thank goodness this grandma got back from her vacation just in time--one day before he arrived!


One very tired, but oh so happy momma and a very proud daddy admire the newest family member.

I'm here to tell you there is nothing like having a new baby snuggle into you to absolutely melt your heart. Now I have two little grandsons---one in Texas and one here--tear my heart apart!   Yes, I've been busy this week and loving every minute of it.  Jewelry takes a back door to this for a little while--it's a good excuse, don't you think?