The Reluctant City Dweller

This Journey Ends... Reluctant City Dweller No More!

2011-01-02T17:25:00.000-08:00

This is my last post and not a sad one because I have what I wanted... a house in the country to live a greener life!!

I am so happy to be able to provide a place that has a "park" right outside our door. My children spend many hours exploring our new home!

No more loud neighbors! Now we have wildlife right outside our door! Here is the female of a pair of Cooper Hawks that share our yard and garden!

I hope you will join me in my new blog home MUSINGS, Stories and Information from the desk of Beccijo.

Team Spirit

2010-10-25T20:45:00.000-07:00

http://www.naturalkidsstore.com

Make this holiday season GREEN in many ways!!

Happy Shopping! Shop Etsy! Shop Handmade! Search Naturalkids!

NaturalKids Etsy Street Team is a group of sellers dedicated to creating natural products for children. We are a diverse group of artisans who make natural toys, utensils, clothing and accessories for kids. Our sellers work with materials from the Earth, such as wool, cotton, silk and wood. Our goal is to support, promote and have fun together while building our businesses.

Where have these 10 years Gone?

2010-08-28T11:56:00.000-07:00

Always Happy!

Sweet Brother...today!


Those eyes!

Always a great smile

A true Knight at heart

Already thinking about his 3rd slice!

Loves his little sister!

No more baby face!

Happy 10th Everett!

Wednesday is Create Day

2010-08-18T10:44:00.000-07:00

Start of a Vet Playset

Wednesday is now dedicated to be my create day! So I thought we would have a little fun! I have been doing lots of painting for orders and stocking up. All thought it is always great to get to paint it can get a little dull. I decided to take one day a week to put the orders aside a just create. I have a HUGE list of ideas and things I want to make but don't get the time to do them.

Paint in rows for stock and orders

This decision has renewed my spirit and now I have this lovely day to look forward to right in the middle of my week. I also get a great satisfaction at getting to do giveaways and sharing my creations with others. I decided instead of doing it for someone else blog, I would do it on my facebook page and blog here.

Custom Playbox $114.00 value

So here is how we will do it:

Go to my facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/TheEnchantedCupboard

Enter an idea for a playset/playbox and you get (one) entry at winning it.
If we get a few good ideas we will vote to narrow it down to just one, everyone will get to watch me create it on my blog and then the contest will happen her where you can enter more times to win!

LETS HAVE SOME FUN!!!

Educational Toys

2010-08-17T20:54:00.000-07:00

These painted toys are part of my Educational Toys. These are great for learning pattern making, sorting, counting, and adding to other elements for preschool learning.

Education needs to be hands on for all ages but mostly for under 5 years old when the road map of the brain is being laid out. Early education in a book and on the computer is good but hands on learning makes a connection to what they are learning.


Pattern Making Mushrooms


Rainbow sorting mushrooms and sorting bowls

24 Counting Mushrooms

Stand and Fight

2010-08-05T13:26:00.000-07:00

Where did the fight go? When did the people who stood up against the wrongs in this world get so "tired"? I am talking about this law, CPSIA. I am reading and hearing so much about people giving up. It makes me mad; it makes me cry. I think of our ancestors and how hard they fought for us to have the freedoms that we have. Where would we be if they didn't fight, if they gave up?

I know many are trying to stay "positive" and change...

Phebe Phillips Commencement Address from Taylor Davis on Vimeo.

....but this just made me cry. As I watched her give this speech, I envisioned our Great Women standing behind her in their sashes, standing strong for Women's Suffrage with tears in their eyes. What would they say to us? Would they be proud? They had the same fears and the same things they would lose ( kids, families, etc), yet they fought not just for their own rights, but mine and yours! Many went to jail to stand up for their rights; would you? They fought for every generation that followed them, as we must for the next generation. This CPSIA Law is wrong. It will destroy the handmade and small businesses that provide quality items to babies and children.

Let's not throw in the towel and give up until we fight. We have not even begun to fight. The day the call goes out I will be ready... ready to put down my paint brush, pack up the 4 kids, gather the organic snacks and meet you in DC to march and fight...I will even make the signs!

Who is with me?
For more information about this Law:
http://www.handmadetoyalliance.org/

Too Hot to Cook - Crock Pot Chicken Wings

2010-08-03T22:25:00.000-07:00

Summer Cooking on Planet Glurple

I have a few tricks for summer cooking. Fire up the grill or pull out the crock pot. I love crock pot cooking but the secret is all in the timing. If you do it right, plan what you will make, thaw any meat in the fridge over night, add ingredients in the morning, and you will eat a wonderful meal at dinner with little effort. This is great for the busy working parent and the stay at home mom who never really gets to stay home!!

So lets start of with something easy and fun!

Crock Pot Wings!!

This is a really flexible recipe and you can add to it as you see fit.
1-2 lbs. of Chicken Wings
1/3 Cup of Soy Sauce ( Wheat Free Brand for those that are on a gluten free diet)
2 cloves of garlic
1 teaspoon of ginger (fresh or ground)
1 Tablespoon of Honey
1/3 Cup of minced onions (I used green onions)

Put it all in the crock pot cook on low for 6 -8 hours

Crock Pot Chicken Wings with a Side of Pan Fried Potatoes

Stocking Day - Hyena Cart

2010-08-01T08:15:00.000-07:00

At noon today (E.S.T.), the team shop over at Hyena Cart will be newly stocked with fresh, beautiful handmade natural kids gear. Hyena Cart is an online shopping site focussed on handcrafted family-friendly and earth-friendly items.

Lots of items are one of a kind, and all are made by artisans from the NaturalKids team behind this blog.

Part of the shop update includes these beautiful pieces:

a mini pink Waldorf baby doll (by PolarBearCreations)

6 natural wooden eggs from ImaginationKids

organic baby wipes from CurlyMonkey

wooden ocean wave stacker by TheEnchantedCupboard

organic baby sheep blanket from SewnNatural

originally posted on NaturalKids Blog

Look What the Mailman brought part 3

2010-07-26T14:25:00.000-07:00

And the clue was...

Friends with mice, cats, and rabbits; curiouser and curiouser, who can she be?

Did you guess right?

Alice in Wonderland

All 3 dolls so far in the collection!

And now for the fun! I had too good of a time setting up these photos!

Just a small Tea Party with friends!

So Sweet!

I know it was too much, but it makes me laugh!!!

To find these dolls and more check out The Fairies Nest.

Some Etsy Love

2010-07-24T08:19:00.000-07:00

My Table and Chair Set for Wooden Doll or Bendy Doll made it to Etsy FP this morning!

Would You Die For Beauty?

2010-07-22T08:32:00.000-07:00

You may already be and not realizing it! A riddle: What is the largest organ we have? Answer: Your SKIN. Do you know that what you put on your skin is like putting it in your mouth. We are learning so much everyday about all the chemicals in our food, the things we have in our homes, and now our personal care products. Watch this video to learn more!

I'm not saying don't take care of yourself and how you look and smell but look for great products that are safe.

You can buy from Etsy seller who make great products that are safe.

Rosemary Lavender Basil Mint Sage - Shampoo Bar by BeautifulSoaps

Get the Look Makeup Collection by EllaRoseMinerals

Single Use Sugar Scrub, Warm Vanilla by KBShimmer

These are not just examples that I pulled off Etsy cause the were pretty, they come from my own shopping cart and are in my bathroom. Using great products like these makes me feel good. There are lots of great finds all over Etsy of safe products that are good for you and the earth! One more thing, not ready to buy how about a how to! Check out this blog for how to make your own lip balm, http://imaginationkidstoys.com/blog/2010/07/beeswax-lipbalm/

Christmas in July from NaturalKids Team

2010-07-17T07:54:00.000-07:00

The Natural Kids Team on Etsy is offering discounts during the next week - shop now for the holidays! A great Sale

Just click on the picture which will take you to a directory of Natural Kids Shops, detailing each shops sale.

Here are a few things on sale....

20% OFF at The Enchanted Cupboard

15% off any item over $25 At Woolies

buy any 2 items, get 10% off at PolarBearCreations

Happy Shopping and stocking up for those little ones in your life!

More Art From Erin Price

2010-07-15T06:33:00.000-07:00

The month is becoming a month of Art. I thought I would introduce you to someone just starting out. To show you that you don't need training just a good eye for beauty! Speaking of beauty not only is she talented but she herself is a beauty. This lovely lady is my niece, goddaughter, and godmother to my children. She is sweet, funny, and one of the loveliest humans I know!
And now for some Art....

This is part of a series called Hello Bee.

Wordless Wednesday: Happy Birthday Max!

2010-07-14T09:41:00.000-07:00

Living the Gluten Free Life - Lasagna

2010-07-13T14:36:00.000-07:00

It has been a struggle to find things to eat but I am determined that will find a way to make this work. There is a lot of hit and miss out there with the Gluten Free packaged foods. Mostly misses!!! I also don't want to miss out on foods that I love so I have been searching. I plan to take you all with me on my journey to find a happy and yummy Gluten Free Life.

My poor family has been suffering cause lately I have not felt like cooking, but now I am on a mission to find fabulous substitutes!

Today's find is Gluten Free Zucchini Lasagna.

About Zucchini Lasagna

This creative twist on the Italian classic had us thinking; who needs pasta? Christine and Carla Pallotta of nebo restaurant share a quick creative alternative to pasta that utilizes one of the gardens most bountiful Veggies.
Gluten Free Note - Substitute corn starch for flour and serve this as a gluten free option to allergy sufferers, and you will see tears of joy in their eyes! Yes. It's that good!

No More Bridal Flip Flops

2010-07-12T06:22:00.000-07:00

Snow Drops - silk and linen women room shoes

Now if this is not a ringing endorsement I don't know what is...

I just opened the link and my little girl was right here, she put her little hand to her mouth and said," Oh my gosh, such pretty shoes, can you put them on my feet!"

How do you explain to a 2 year old that you can just take the things you see out of the computer, lol!

Lovely !!! Perfect wedding shoes by La La! Shoes I hate seeing those ugly flip flops the wedding party get for when their feet start to hurt, these would be perfect to slip into after a night of dancing! Heavenly!!!!

The description itself is heavenly,

The off-white shantung silk texture is perfectly matched with soft off-white pure linen on the inside, and makes a great contrast with the rough texture of the linen soles. Unique flower-like upper straps fasten with velcro, and soft light gray lambskin no-skid patches on the outsoles allow you to walk safely even on very slippery surfaces.

...and how about these for your flower girls!

Zen Bordeaux

LaLa Shoes is a member of the NaturalKids Team and also makes darling baby shoes.

Muddy Feet Giveaway on NaturalKids Blog

2010-07-11T10:20:00.000-07:00

Come on over to the NaturalKids Team for a great Giveaway from Muddy Feet!

Here are a few items by Kelley of Muddy Feet!

Carrot House Playset

Little Felt Snails

Pumpkin House Playset

To checkout other items from Muddy Feet click here.

More Art Work From Deborah A Davis

2010-07-10T06:42:00.000-07:00

"Art stirs the emotion. It takes us out of ourselves, makes us think, feel and go beyond." by Deborah A Davis

With Bells On

Letting Go

Tethered

Gaea Returns Home

2010-07-09T07:44:00.000-07:00

This has truly been a few trying weeks for my dear friend Deborah A Davis. She is a wonderful magical being and to me has been a powerful influence in my life. She holds many of the qualities of mother earth in her own soul and I love her dearly! She is a strong and wonderful artist and through art has found herself and her voice. She is very prominent in the art movement in Bemidji City, MN. Deborah art was one of the 11 picket to be part of the Bemidji Art WalK. Each artist painted a large statue of a beaver, the beaver is the Bemidji State University mascot. Deborah's statue was called Gaea and was beautiful and wonderful! The fiberglass beaver had been removed last week by order of City Manager John Chattin, who felt the painted front of the beaver looked like female genitalia. The community came together and the Bemidji City Council voted to return the statue "Gaea" to its place on the Bemidji Art Walk at the corner of 4th Street and Beltrami Avenue.
Deborah says," One step into the future is what we do all the time, but sometimes the steps are very tall... and sometimes we stand at the foot of a mountain. We wonder if we can, and we wish for wings. But wings don't come to humans; usually someone higher throws a rope."

Gaea

Deborah A Davis

N 47°28.290’,W094° 52.880 (4th and Beltrami)
Gaea means Mother Earth and God is Gracious
That the fertile earth itself is female, nurturing mankind is a belief that crosses culture, time and borders. Gaea means Mother Earth. It also means “God is Gracious,” and is one of the 52 feminine aspects of God in the Christian Bible. Gaea in mythology was a female Titan. If we could embrace the strength of womaness, celebrate it, we would become the people we are meant to be: nurturing, loving, whole.
on a side note: While painting this, the gulf oil disaster occurred… and I couldn’t help thinking, if we could incorporate this… become less gluttoness and more sacrificial, the world would be more like the home it is meant to be for us and our children.

To see more of the Art Walk Beavers: http://thisismytownbemidji.com/?p=318

The Toy Maker's Table

2010-07-08T07:13:00.000-07:00

Find out what I have been working on and what is on the Toy Makers Table this week:

Buzzing Bees and Ladybugs!!!

My kids have a great love for bugs (daddy does not). Bugs are friends and help with our garden and our whole world food growth. Without these amazing creatures we humans would be lost. One of my projects I am working on is making great preschool learning toys. If kids learn that education is fun from a very early age they will carry it through with them in to their adult life. The Bees have stripes and the ladybugs have dots. These great set can be used for counting, sorting and for pattern making!

You can soon find these listed in my shop. Want to learn more about the wonder of bugs come read my blog post on the NaturalKids Blog!

Who Am I? Part 3

2010-07-07T15:34:00.000-07:00

I have also asked one of my favorite doll makers, Cynthia Toy of The Fairies Nest, to do a "Doll of The Month Club" for me but not tell me what I am getting from her selection of Storybook Dolls!!! BUT She is going to give me a hint/riddle each time.
Here is what she wrote:
see the listing here.

Friends with mice, cats, and rabbits; curiouser and curiouser, who can she be?

You can see examples of Fairiesnest storybook dolls in her sold section
http://www.etsy.com/shop_sold.php?user_id=5072731

Other Dolls by Fairiesnest-

A Kitty Girl

Upcycled Natural Plush Bunny

Save The Butterflies

2010-07-06T13:39:00.000-07:00

My friend is having a great giveaway over on her blog, as well as a challenge to get us all to help the butterflies.
http://themuddyfoot.blogspot.com/2010/07/butterfly-challenge.html

Here is a letter from the NWF with a few of the included tips below:

Butterfly numbers plummeting - help them today

Here are a few simple ideas to help attract all kinds of butterflies (as well as birds and other wildlife too!):

Plant native, colorful flowering plants to provide nectar
Provide a shallow water dish as a place to get a drink
Include milkweed host plants to serve as larval, or caterpillar, food
Offer dense shrubs to provide shelter

4TH Of July

2010-07-05T06:05:00.000-07:00

Last night was full of family fun. What could be a better night when you have picnic blanket, snacks, and fireworks. Pretty colors filled the sky as the kids would yell out in glee over seeing their favorite color light up the sky. The show is always too short and the traffic too long, but none of that mattered cause my man sang Garth Brooks songs to me while we inched our way home! Lovely summer memories!!

NaturalKids Eye Candy

2010-07-03T18:27:00.000-07:00

The Lure Of The Forest

Fairyfolk

Just Hatched

Beneath The Rowan Tree

Click here to see the full Etsy Treasury, The Lure of the Forest!

Look What the Mailman brought part 2

2010-07-02T07:07:00.000-07:00

This mystery character's favorite expression is.
"Just Imagine..." Can you guess who she is?

Anne of Green Gables

I am just loving this doll of the month club with The Fairies Nest. Anne of Green Gables is such a great story and one I really enjoy sharing with my kids. Cyn did such a wonderful job bring her to life with her fiery hair and her sweet freckles! I just love her! My next doll is ready and I hope you are having as much fun as I am trying to guess who they are.

The Reason I Have Approvals Done - Wedding Cake Topper Giveaway

2010-06-30T09:20:00.000-07:00

The bride looked at the finish photos and felt that the headband was not right, after some email chatting and new photos we realized the problem.

The first photos was a white wash-out from the flash, making the headband look like groupings of white pearl flowers.

What the headband really was, was 3 rows of "diamonds" on a silver headband with one side having a swirl of diamonds and pearls, with a few pearls here and there.

And now the finished Cake Topper...

I hope everyone enjoyed the process and that the bride with have the enchanting day she always dreamed of!
May you live Happily Ever After!!!!

Finish - Wedding Cake Topper Giveaway

2010-06-28T11:05:00.000-07:00

Finish Doll for The Wedding Cake Topper Giveaway! This was a hard month, I got very sick for about 3 weeks. It started out as allergies and quickly turned into something more serious. I work when I could but my blog suffered, I didn't get to do all my fun wedding theme blogs but my health, family, and orders had to come first.

Here you see the bride doll getting her fist layer of color. I do several colors to get a more realistic hair look. If I put a just one color out of the bottle it looks more like a helmet, lol! On my pallet you can see the mix to get what the bride calls Auburn with apricot highlights.

You can see the color mixing here.

Here is a close up and above to see the texture and the curls.

The sash was made darker and you can see her nice up-do from this photo of the back.

Finally a side glaze and you can see they are in LOVE! A really happily ever after!!!

Natural Kids: Saturday Giveaway - Wool Crown from Kats in the Belfry

2010-06-26T13:06:00.000-07:00

This would be great for a lovely flowergirl - Natural Kids: Saturday Giveaway - Wool Crown from Kats in the Belfry: "- Sent using Google Toolbar"

Wordless Wednesday...

2010-06-16T20:14:00.000-07:00

Crazy tripod photo shot! Love this thing!

Recap on Illegal Wedding Fair in NYC

2010-06-14T08:31:00.000-07:00

The Show was a hit!

Rainbow Mushrooms

The location was stunning at 623 on Hudson

What The Bride Said...

2010-06-12T21:35:00.000-07:00

APPROVED

"They look so great! I would prefer the sash on the left with a bow like the photo. Is it possible to make it slightly darker brown? It's almost like dark chocolate. If not, no big deal. I'm so excited!!! Thanks!"

Next step:
Darken the sash and move onto face and hair.

Etsy Handmade Wedding Finds

2010-06-11T20:03:00.000-07:00

Wood

Wooden Cake Stand by whippoorwheel

Ironwood Wood Ring by jewelrybyjohan

Engraved Wooden Invitation by RobertoSand

For more great Etsy Wedding find check out my Treasury East, Handmade Wedding.

Step 1, Custom Wedding Cake Toppers

2010-06-10T21:49:00.000-07:00

It starts with the skin tones. For me and my customers this is important step. Between the photos that they send and the description on the questionnaire I work to get a perfect fit. Because this is important to me I have my customers approve the toppers at this stage with skin tone and clothing.

Next, I work on the clothing. I first have to paint a few layers of the base coats. Water base paints tend to be a bit transparent. Once I have enough coats on and different colors need different numbers of coats to get a complete covering.

Last,I love working in the little details and painting lace is my favorite. It amazes even me how I can get the paint to work to make it look like lace.

Here are the toppers for our June Giveaway, ready for step 1 approval!

Will the bride approve? Will there be changes made? You will have to wait to see.....

But while we wait here are a few more toppers in the 1 Stage

Ruffle detail and shimmer added

Detailed Lace

Close up on tiny little bows all over the dress!

Illegal Wedding Fair in NYC

2010-06-05T20:59:00.000-07:00

In New York City Sunday the 6th, The Illegal Wedding Fair is being held to benefit Marriage Equality NY.
for more information:
http://www.illegalweddingfair.com/IWF/IWF___home.html
Cocktails, food, wedding cake and champagne will be offered, and numerous speakers and vendors will be present. I will be there with my wedding cake toppers and presenting my shop, The Enchanted Cupboard.
I have created this etsy treasury to celebrate this fair:

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4bfc802f354f6d91f5c04b87/illegal-wedding-fair-nyc

Meet The Winners of the Wedding Cake Topper Giveaway

2010-06-04T07:59:00.000-07:00

Step one:
After a customer pays for their wedding cake toppers they send their photos and information to me through my shop or email.
Here is what the standard for looks like for now but soon we will have an online form with photo upload on my website. Don't you just love progress!!!!

Bride
Dress color: Ivory
Dress Style: http://bit.ly/co6NC3
NOTE: I'm not wearing the lace sleeves with the dress, it will be strapless like the image to the right. The dress will also have a dark chocolate sash instead of the green one pictured.
Hair Color: Auburn with apricot highlights
Hair Style: See attached images
Anything to be worn in Hair: Headband, which is shown in the images. If you need more detail of the top I can take pictures.
Eye Color: Brown
Skin Tone: light
Other: I'm wearing a pearl necklace and pearl studs in my first holes and diamond studs in my second hole. I also wear a diamond nose stud in my right nostril.

Groom
Tux /Suite Color: Black, 3 button suit. http://bit.ly/cNUUNI
Tie/ Bowtie?Color: Regular tie and vest with pocket square, Ivory http://bit.ly/aoWNq7
Hair Color: Dirty blonde
Facial Hair?: very short beard and mustache
Eye Color: blue
Skin Tone: light
Other: diamond stud in left ear

Base Color: same as my dress

Next my sons help with collecting the unfinished wooden pieces into the customers basket along with organic cotton square, all paper work, and all packaging items.

Now everything is in one place and kept together from start to finish.

Hopeless Romantic

2010-06-03T18:02:00.000-07:00

I am, it's true! It runs deep in my blood! I always find the silver lining, when others are losing it I am calm, and I always look for the fairytales in life. So late at night while I was painting this is what I saw....

Do you see the heart?

I think it means: True Love and Happily Ever After!!!

Here is the sweet cake topper who's fortune was told in a drip of paint!

Lets Start at the Very Beginning

2010-06-02T20:49:00.000-07:00

Cassandra Bromfield Bridal Blog had a giveaway of one of my Wedding Cake Toppers. Ending on March 31st, the winning couple would share their experience with my readers about the process of making their custom set.

And the winning comment was:
A. said...Dawn, my wedding officiant, posted all about this contest, and I'm hoping I win! Your stuff is soooo cute and would look great on our cake. We're getting married Oct. 10, 2010 in Wading River, NY.

Our next post we will meet to couple and see stage one.

June the Month for Weddings

2010-06-01T21:50:00.000-07:00

I have decided to make the whole month of June about weddings, brides, and cake toppers. I can't think about June without the song, June Bride, from one of my all time favorite movies, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. I love that movie and had my first crush on the character Ben.

Still like that tall rugged looking guy and found one of my own to keep forever. That's what I ask him before he falls alseep, "Can I keep you forever". He always replies, "As long as you promise it will be forever." We really are that sappy sweet. This year it will be our 13th year of marriage, but for us the time started when we meet Sept. 14th, 1996. You will have to wait till another day for that story but I wanted to leave you with a list of what you can expect this month.

Things like:
Follow along with our Cake Topper Winner for a start to finish on their custom cake topper
Natural Handmade Wedding Finds on Etsy
My true love store
Meet some of the past cake topper customers
See new wedding items coming out this month
A recap of my day at the Illegal Wedding Fair in NYC
Some DIY wedding ideas
and much more.....

NaturalKids stocking at Hyena

2010-05-31T22:13:00.000-07:00

To all hyenas: June 1st, check what's in stock! NaturalKids on Hyenacart at
http://hyenacart.com/naturalkids/

Want got put in stock from The Enchanted Cupboard:

Party Time Playset for Bendy Doll

What to Do....

2010-05-31T00:19:00.000-07:00

while the paint dries:

Do a Blog post
Check my GA
Clean up a mess
Read Blogs
Make Coffee
Change a Diaper
Read about Marketing
Clean up New Mess ( 4 kids + Dog, need I say more, lol)
Check my Shop Lover
Make a Treasury
Take Photos
List something
Answer Emails
Answer Why? Why is the sky blue? Why do snakes not have legs? Why can we sometimes see the sun and the moon at the same time? Why can't I keep my bug collection in my room? Why can't I fly? ????!!! (2 years old or 22 they still have Why questions)
...and many more but now my paint is dry and I must work!

And now a peek at something I have been working on....

An Orchard and an Apple Farmers Stand for Wooden Doll or Bendy Doll

Protect the Great Lakes

2010-05-28T06:55:00.000-07:00

This is a reprint for http://woolies-woolies.blogspot.com/

For Immediate Release: May 23, 2010
Contact:
Cynthia Pryor - (906) 360-2414
Yellow Dog Watershed Preserve - (906) 345-9223
Drew Nelson – (616) 706-2539

Drew Nelson releases ‘Eagle Rock - Song of the People” in support of those protecting their sacred site from harm

Drew Nelson, singer songwriter, has written a song that calls to all of us who wish to protect our lands from any action that would injure it. Drew who is from Michigan , understands our water rich place and has embraced this cause against a metallic sulfide mine on the Yellow Dog Plains - located in the beautiful remote Upper Peninsula of Michigan on the shores of Lake Superior .

Currently, Rio Tinto second largest mining conglomerate in the world proposes a copper/nickel mine under the Salmon Trout River on the Yellow Dog Plains. The proposed mine, disrespectfully called “Eagle” is on state and public land that our government has put in the hands of this multi-national corporation for their private gain. On this state land there is a rock - a three acre outcrop that is the only high spot on the Yellow Dog Plains. This rock is Migi zii wa sin or Eagle Rock that is a sacred site to the Anishinaabe of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. Eagle Rock was scheduled and approved by the state of Michigan to be the portal to this mine.

The event that precipitated the arrest of Cynthia Pryor and the occupation of Eagle Rock by three courageous women - Charlotte Loonsfoot, Chalsey Smith and Georgeana Earring was the beginning of the fencing in of Eagle Rock by Rio Tinto. These are all women of the water who did what they had to do to help stop this mine.

Drew wrote this song in honor of the bravery of those who now occupy Migi zii wa sin and who are not leaving. Drew presents this song with these words:
I have written a new song called 'Eagle Rock (song for the people)" and it will be made available for FREE to everyone. All I ask is you visit these sites, educate your self about what is going on and PLEASE make a donation to those brave heroes who are holding off one of the largest and most egregious violators of indigenous peoples and our mother the earth.
THIS IS NOT A LOCAL PROBLEM IT IS A GLOBAL PROBLEM.

Drew signs his name lower case and as ‘human being’. This is not about any one person but together represents all the brave spirits and human beings that care. We thank all who wish to help and as you listen to this song - think about those people on the ground, in harm’s way, who have taken their stand - there at Eagle Rock.

For more information about Eagle Rock and how you can help, go to these sites: http://www.standfortheland.com/; http://www.yellowdogwatershed.org/blog/; and http://www.savethewildup.org/.Please also visit Drew Nelson's website at http://www.drewnelson.net/.

Wendy Johnson
Yellow Dog Watershed Preserve
PO Box 5
Big Bay, MI 49808
(906) 345-9223
(906) 361-5179 (Wendy's cell)
http://us.mc526.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=ydwp@yellowdogwatershed.org
http://www.yellowdogwatershed.org/

Some Family fun!

2010-05-26T11:29:00.000-07:00

Who Am I? Part 2

2010-05-24T05:42:00.000-07:00

I have also asked one of my favorite doll makers, Cynthia Toy of The Fairies Nest, to do a "Doll of The Month Club" for me but not tell me what I am getting from her selection of Storybook Dolls!!! BUT She is going to give me a hint/riddle each time.
Here is what she wrote:
A 4.5' story book doll reserved for theenchantedcupboard.etsy.com .

This mystery character's favorite expression is.
"Just Imagine..." Can you guess who she is?

You can see examples of Fairiesnest storybook dolls in my sold section
http://www.etsy.com/shop_sold.php?user_id=5072731

Other Dolls by Fairiesnest-

OOAK Soft Sculpture Cloth Art Doll Maeve The Fall Fairy Queen

OOAK Soft Sculpture Cloth Art Doll

All Snug in Their Bed

2010-05-18T22:44:00.000-07:00

Photo of Cake Topper on Cake by Kristen Morgan of LanierStar Photography, LLC

Having a small business mean wearing many hats. One of those is being your own problem solver. My problem was my wedding cake toppers are a long process and storing them properly was causing trouble. There are steps to making these just like my other items BUT they need approvals from the buyer before moving on.

Baskets all lined in a row!

Sometimes I am working on several cake toppers sets at the same time. Using the little baskets and then the chalk labels to keep everything organized was a great salution.

See the white smudges all over the male's suit.

My next challenge was keeping them from touching each other while unglazed. Since most times the female dolls is wearing white or cream and the male doll is in a dark color there tends to be a transfer of color if they roll around in their baskets.

A great solution!

My solution was to get an Etsy.com seller to make me some very soft organic cotton "beds" for them. It works out great, they are just the right thickness to keep them from rolling all about! Thank you Sara of Woolies on Etsy.

Finished Cake Toppers

Check out Sara's Shop on Etsy to see what other cute soft toys she makes! Woolies is home of heirloom quality knitted and sewn stuffed animals and dolls. Using all natural materials, always.

Knitted Bunny

Fairies, Fairies Everywhere

2010-05-17T23:20:00.000-07:00

In my getting ready for the May Fair and Spring Craft Show I realized that I needed to keep up with the stocking up of items. To really turn a hobby into a business you need to keep inventory full and ready for shipping. So in the photos below you will see the stages of getting my Fairies for The Fairy Ring painted and ready. I will not make your head spin with the endless coats and details that go into these dolls but just let you see them!

This is what I see from my side of the table, little faces that are always hungry!! " Mommy can we have a snack" is what they are saying with those big eyes!

Faces, hair, and details added to fairy dolls. I uses old ice cube trays to keep the separated while they dry.

Here is Lavender getting her wings!

Rose got her curly hair and wings now they are waiting for some sparkle!

All the fairies done and waiting for there finish satin coat. I use a water base non-toxic finish.

( yes more mushrooms in the back!)

And Here the are my Wooden Fairy Dolls, so sweet! Don't you just want to come dance in The Fairy Ring with them!

CRAFTS IN CHELSEA part 2

2010-05-13T10:57:00.000-07:00

Very windy day, but as always I learn a lot each time I do one of these street shows! Enjoy the photos!

My new banner.

Me and a basket full on NaturalKids Team LOVE!!

The set up, I love my new chalk labels!

Mermaids, Dinosaurs, Prates and Fairies...Oh MY!!!

A New Fan!

He loved the Max in Space Playbox!

One more cause he was so cute!

NaturalKids Eye Candy

2010-05-12T23:27:00.000-07:00

Teddy Bear Picnic!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/woolies

http://www.etsy.com/shop/fairtradefamily

http://www.etsy.com/shop/yarnmiracle

Going to Work Day With Daddy

2010-05-11T21:42:00.000-07:00

All in a days work.

Taking a few calls.

Off for a meeting with the boss.

The man behind the magic, no that is not his sippy cup, lol!

My Kids are the Luckiest Kids in the World

2010-05-07T09:12:00.000-07:00

All this NaturalKids Team loveliness belongs to them but it is going with me to the 2 craft shows I am doing over the next 2 weekends. I plan to display this collection proudly on my table with information about where you can find these items and more. If you like what you see come check out our website that will lead you to their shops. This is truly a stunning collection of handmade goodness!

http://katsinthebelfry.etsy.com pair of felt portobello mushrooms

http://www.etsy.com/shop/woolies Spring Pink Piggies

http://www.etsy.com/shop/birchleafdesigns Wooden Dagger with Leather Sheath, Wooden Shield, Playsilks

http://fairiesnest.etsy.com Red Riding Hood a Storybook Dollhouse Doll

www.imaginationkidstoys.com wooden mushrooms and hedgehog toys

CRAFTS IN CHELSEA

2010-05-06T09:26:00.000-07:00

Hand Painted Little Wooden People

WHEN: Saturday May 8, 2010, 10am – 5pm
WHERE: 21st street between 8-9 Avenues, NYC

Wooden Fairy Dolls, The Fairy Ring

Join us in Chelsea, one of Manhattan's most popular neighborhoods for dining and entertaining, for CRAFTS IN CHELSEA: a gathering of over 100 of the finest local Etsy artists and craftspeople.

Wooden Mermaid Doll, Mermaid Tales

Shop for the very best hand made jewelry, clothing, ceramics, knits, glass, fine art and wooden toys. Come see a sample of items from The NaturalKids Team.
This event benefits Public School PS11, and helps to ensure that its arts programs remain funded

Locally Harvested

2010-05-04T23:12:00.000-07:00

This year I have started using a wonderful "mom and pop" local sawmill for my wood supply, Spacht Sawmill. Spacht Sawmill is located in Fairview Village, Pennsylvania. It has been operating as a sawmill on the same premises since 1928.

Dave and Carol Spacht purchased the mill in 1983 and have been selling local hardwoods to craftsmen and woodworkers for utility and fine woodworking use. Old and new technology work together at Spacht Sawmill, where the 1950s circular mill is combined with a modern planing mill.

As a hardwood mill, they sell species that are native to the area. Local trees of red oak, white oak, poplar, ash, and black walnut are their main supply. They sometimes having hard maple and pine, but not on a regular basis. I use the poplar, hard pine, and sometimes ash for my toys and custom cut items.

It is so rewarding to see these planks of wood be cut into such wonderful toys and keepsakes. Here are a few of the new items that we use the wood for the sawmill to make.

Custom Cut Oak Tree Wedding Cake Topper

Wave Stacker, Wooden Toy

And The Winner is!!!!!

2010-05-04T08:40:00.000-07:00

SoDucky!
Comment number 3! Please contact me with you information. I hope everyone enjoyed this Etsy find!! I just ordered my second batch, labels for everything!!!

Mushrooms, Mushrooms Everywhere

2010-04-30T09:07:00.000-07:00

...and some unicorns!

No matter how many I paint there never seems to be enough mushrooms. They are so pretty and sweet but take a lot of time. Because all of my items are so tiny I need to paint in sections so not to overlap or smudge the step before.

To get to this stage it has taken painting white one the top (dry 30 min.), middle (dry 30 min.), bottom (dry 30 min.), and then repeat it all over. The white paint needs 2 layers so that you do not see the brush strokes. Then the red paint needs 2 layers (with 30 min. dry time for each layer). I then stamp the bottom ( this needs 24 hours to dry or it will smear when putting the glaze on).

Next step is all the little dots, hundreds of dots!!! I end up seeing dots everywhere. I have a certain number for each size mushroom and all the counting gets very intense! This stage is kept for late night painting when the children are asleep so they don't make me lost count a hundred times.

As you can see I get pretty covered in paint. My husband says that I could not make a profit if I had to add in the cost of all the clothing I have to replace. I now have painting clothing and clothing to go out in public in.

Last stage is 2 layers of satin finish glaze in the 3 stages: top, middle, bottom ...and then repeat.

There is a lot of "wait" time in my work. During that time I am homeschooling the kids, keeping house, cooking, baking, listing or relisting on Etsy, breaking up fights, finding my daughters shoes ( she is obsessed with shoes), marketing my shop, blogging, doing marketing or planning for my NaturalKids Team, and on and on.....

And when they are all done they look like these lovely wooden toy mushooms!

Look What the Mailman brought

2010-04-28T21:40:00.000-07:00

Well I was wrong it was not Anne of Green Gable. But what a sweet thing to be wrong about.

Love the rainbow yarn! Nicely packaged like a present.

Little Red Ridding-hood is the first doll in a Doll of the Month Series from The Fairies Nest. Each month a new doll will be sent with a riddle.

The detail is so lovely, there are many layers to the little dress.

I could not help myself I had to, I mean the kids had to, play!

Not so scary when you are bigger then the Big Bad Wolf.

Lovely!

Not Just Any Toy Storage

2010-04-27T19:15:00.000-07:00

Since I have started making and collecting great hand made toys it is such a shame to just store them in some plastic bin. I wanted to find fun and functional ways to store the toys but also honor their "wholesomeness".

Look at how sweet these toys are with little hands at play

Wooden Toys at play

First I started with some wooden cubes from my local unfinished furniture store ( they can also be found at most craft stores). I added colored canvas cube bins to hold the toys. Later I added recycled tags I found on Etsy.com

Red Bins full of Childhood Treasures

Wicker Baskets are also good for storage (found at local Craft Store)

Then I found and became a little obsessed with these great fabric storage bins. I found a wonderful shop that has worked to customize the size that I need. She even worked to make them nest inside each other so the store nicely when not in use. She has been great to work with and if she does not have the fabric I need she goes out of her way to find it.

Fabric Storage Bins

From kathip22 of Etsy.com

Nice and Neat Toy Storage

Wooden Toys by:

The Enchanted Cupboard

Imagination Kids

Etsy 'Jerseylicious' Finds

2010-04-25T23:37:00.000-07:00

Ocean Blues

Seascape Handpainted Merino Wool Top

GODDESS Multi Gemstone Cuff Bracelet

Mantra capelet

Find more great items from the members of the etsynj team on Etsy.com

Who Am I?

2010-04-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

So you all know by this point that I love Etsy! I am not only a seller but a shopper. If I can find it on Etsy I would rather buy it there then in a store. It is so much fun to get that package in the mail, to see other sellers packaging and how they have branded themselves. Sometime it comes at just the right time when I needed a little joy in my day!

So my new favorite thing is to tell the seller to surprise me! Surprise me with the color, etc! I have also asked one of my favorite doll makers, Cynthia Toy of The Fairies Nest, to do a "Doll of The Month Club" for me but not tell me what I am getting from her selection of Storybook Dolls!!! BUT She is going to give me a hint/riddle each time.

So I decided to share the fun with you! Help me guess what it will be, leave a comment and tell me what doll it might be. Check out The Fairies Nest sold section to see other storybook dolls she has made.

Here is her hint:
This little mystery character was infamously disobedient and put not only her own, but the life of another member of her family in grave danger. Can you guess who she is?

NaturalKids Eye Candy

2010-04-18T21:24:00.000-07:00

Rainbow

Window Star

Wooden Toy

Felted Acorns

I Just Love This!

2010-04-16T23:25:00.000-07:00

Okay, truth be told I love everything that she makes. Wanda has just found such a sweet way to make collage beautiful. Her paper Art is simple and sweet yet very colorful. She also donate to Trees for the Future to plant a tree with every product purchased.

One of my favorite things about Etsy is that you can ask for a custom item. A while back I asked her to make me a set of the Art Clips but for them to be trees! I love them, they hang in my office with my kids art on them. It is an ever changing collection of expressions of love from my kids.

I hung them very low so that kids could reach but I didn't want to put nail holes in the wall so I used the 3M Wall Hanging system and that fixed it perfectly. With the 3M system I can also change what set I use.

Which inspired me to ask for this mushroom set! I love mushrooms! I plain to use them in the decor of my office. Once I move the kids Clip Art set to their room I will use my mushroom set for when I do storyboards or for creating a new line of toys. I like to see my drawings side by side to get a good visual on the project.
What to find out more about Wanda and her shop check out this interview: http://thereluctantcitydweller.blogspot.com/2010/04/tips-from-women-of-etsy-wanda-of.html

http://www.MapleShadeKids.com
http://www.MapleShadeKids.etsy.com
http://twitter.com/mapleshadekids
http://facebook.com/mapleshadekids

Some Etsy Love

2010-04-16T06:53:00.000-07:00

Front Page This Morning

The Enchanted Cupboard

Tips from Women of Etsy - Wanda of MapleShadeKids

2010-04-15T23:47:00.000-07:00

We Women of Etsy are busy we run online shops and are become SEO experts and PR pros. We keep our families and houses running and try to have time for ourselves. Sometimes in the muck of it all we get lost and need some help getting back on track. I wanted to do some short interviews with other Women of Etsy and share their ideas with you.

A brief bio and give all your links:
I live in Derry, Nh with my husband, 3 children and newly adopted cat. As a child, I grew up in Maine climbing apple trees, balancing on old rock walls and creating lots of gifts for family members. In college, I studied nutrition and worked several years as a Register Dietitian. After living in Israel for two years with my husband, we returned to the United States, settled in Boston, MA and I gave birth to my first child. When my daughter was 2 and I was pregnant with our twins, we sought a more rural area to raise our 3 children. It was then, in 2002 that I rekindled my passion for designing and creating after moving into our New England farmhouse. With much excitement, I created several items for my children's rooms. I am very fortunate to be able to continue with this passion in my current Maple Shade Kids designs.

http://www.MapleShadeKids.com
http://www.MapleShadeKids.etsy.com
http://twitter.com/mapleshadekids
http://facebook.com/mapleshadekids

How do you schedule your day?
I really like a variety in my days and weeks so I am quite flexible in my creative process. I do, however, have specific times I work:
5:30/6:00am I wake.... ahh, this is my favorite time of day! The house is so peaceful. While sipping on hot brewed coffee, I check for sales, return emails, pack products to be shipped and write down my "work goals" for the day.
7:30am I wake my three children, feed them breakfast, pack their snacks and drive them to school. While out, I usually drop off any packages I need to ship at the post office.
9:00am I return home and start working on my goals for the day whether it be creating collages, cutting my wood products, organizing my creative space or taking pictures of products to be posted online.
12:00 noon: With the warmer weather here in New Hampshire, my husband and I try to go for a 30 minute walk and then return for a quick lunch.
1:00 pm Back to creating.
2:50pm Make snacks for my children who arrive home at 3:00.
3:00-6:00pm Bring children to extracurricular activities, prepare dinner and try to fit in a few quick emails, facebook/twitter postings and/or put a coat of sealer on products I created during the day.
6:30pm - One of my most favorite and important times of the day is when my family and I sit down for dinner and discuss our day.
7:00pm Help children with homework, read with them and have them get ready for bed.
8:00/8:30 Get kids into bed.
8:30 - Answer emails, finish any goals I need to complete for the day and then relax with a book or movie.
10:00pm - Sleep

What % of your day do you allot for your Etsy Shop?
Etsy is where the majority of my sales take place. I just love the support, community and opportunity it offers. I would say about 90% of my work day is committed to my Etsy shop whether it is creating products that I have sold through Etsy, replying to convos, listing new items, or taking pictures of products to be posted.

If you have children, what is your tip for occupying young kids so you can work?

Even though I try to complete most of my "creating" while my children are at school, there are always days that this just isn't possible. At these times, I let them use their creative spirit with my scraps of wood or pull out the crayons and give them the opportunity to put their design ideas for Maple Shade Kids onto paper (which they are always anxious to do). Also, I just recently bought a MAC laptop. It is so wonderful to be able to sit outside and finish listing products, replying to emails or completing interview questions :) while my children play and have fun.

What do you do for "ME" time?

I would say my daily 30 minute walk is the time I recharge my batteries. I also enjoy my quiet time in the morning before my family awakes. In addition to these moments, I exchange babysitting services with my friend a few times a month. This gives my children the opportunity to play with their friends and gives me "mom time" to browse shops for inspiration, take a walk or enjoy a nice dinner with my husband.

What is your best organizing tip?
Have a plan for each day by writing down goals.

Wordless Wednesday: Everett's Photo

2010-04-14T17:23:00.000-07:00

Team Work

2010-04-11T14:54:00.000-07:00

I have been studying up on my Inbound Marketing. You can see the books I am reading on the bookshelf to the right of this post. The basic is simple you DON'T need money to do great advertising just a little know - how and time. When you get right down to the nitty gritty it is just about how many inbound links you have coming to your shop or blog ( present count 4/09/10 729 and a WebsiteGrader.com score 89.3/100) and how important they are to a search engine. As I learn more I want to share my learned knowledge with you.

Part 1 of my plan is: to do joint in Etsy Marketing.
When deciding to do this it is best to join a team with your point of view. My point of view is natural toys. I am a member and leader of the NaturalKids Team on Etsy. I have picked a few members to do joint projects with. To make a toy that can be matched or paired with another members items. There is no way on etsy to place an "ad" on you website but you can featured each other's items in your photos and give links in your listing to there items.

Example one: Party Time Playset for Bendy Dolls

My listing at The Enchanted Cupboard

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=42386257

Dannielle's listing at Princess Nimble - Thimble

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=43085721

The Bendy dolls and Playset sold very quickly. I can also see on my GA how many views are coming from her shop by her website set up to be a launch pad to her shop.

Example two: Rainbow Sorting Bowls featuring matching sorting felted acorns.

My listing at The Enchanted Cupboard

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=44541937

Donni's listing from FairyFolk

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=44551411

Both items sold with in hours of listing (same customer followed the link). Since in both cases I am a team member and friend I can keep in close contact with the other shop.

Key points:

I found this worked best if I bought the items that I would be featuring and then asked the other party to do the same.
Links will only be live if you add the whole URL shop name.
Keep good records so that you can see if this works as good advertising for both shops.
Keep the photos simple and beautiful.

NaturalKids Eye Candy

2010-04-10T22:16:00.000-07:00

Butterfly

The Studio Redo and a Giveaway

2010-04-09T22:02:00.000-07:00

So slowly I am moving into my new studio. The space is great and I am able to make it work for me and how I work best. The room that is now my studio use to be the dinning room.

Old space

Now as I transfer it into a working space for me. I am changing the layout to suit my needs. First off I need a place to keep items that were works in progress out of little hands but to be able to clearly see what order they are for. I am also using as much wall space with different wall shelving systems. The one you see here is an unfinished wooden shelf from the local craft store.Over the last holiday rush I found using these little Dollar Store baskets work great for each order, but I need to find a way to be able to label then.

This is when I found bradensgracewallart.etsy.com and these really great chalk cloth labels. These were perfect. I really don't know how I functioned without them. Here is how I am using them.

So now to celebrate my great find I am doing a giveaway of 6 of these labels. I can't wait to find out what you will use them for.

Here is what you must do to enter this giveaway:

Be a follower or become a follower of this blog.
You must leave a comment about what you will use them for if you win.
You must check out this great Etsy Shop, bradensgracewallart.etsy.com.
You may blog about this Giveaway to get an additional entry.
You may Facebook about this Giveaway to get an additional entry.
You may tweet about this Giveaway to get an additional entry.
Giveaway ends 04/24/2010

Tips from Women of Etsy - Lauren of Bradens Grace

2010-04-08T08:25:00.000-07:00

How do you Schedule your day?
My schedule for the day revolves around my 2 energetic kids Gracie, 3, and Braden 19 months, 2 dogs, and etsy. Oh yeah and my husband!

What % of your day do you allot for your Etsy Shop?
Usually when my kids are napping (which is not too long) and when everyone goes to sleep at night. Maybe 10%.

If you have children, what is your tip for occupying young kids so you can work?
My daughter loves to help mommy work and she gets very serious about her "work", my 19 month old forget about it, he is trying to help me type right now.

What do you do for "ME" Time (Multiplying Energy= when you give to yourself you recharge your batteries)?
I enjoy going to consignment stores and thrift shops, I get so excited when I find my special "treasures"

What is your best organizing tip?
Time management and using chalkboard labels of course. Try to touch things as few times as possible. For example if you fold the laundry don't put it back in the basket, put it away!!!

You can find these and more items at:
bradensgracewallart.etsy.com

April Showers bring May....Craft Fairs

2010-04-06T20:39:00.000-07:00

I am putting in late hours these next few weeks leading up to May. Okay, I know last year I said no more Craft Shows/Fairs but I feel I needed a few more under my belt before throwing in the vendor's apron.

So while the family sleeps I paint. Trees, bushes, and mushrooms surround me in their little trays waiting for their final Glaze of NON-TOXIC Satin Finish.

Making the Playboxes take the most time. The detail work must completely dry between layers before I can add the next detail. I try to keep it simple but it never works out and I go back and add the details in.

The Trees and Forest sets are a more simple style and I can make more up at a time. It is so pretty to see them all lined up like a tiny forest. Working at night also means I don't have to fight off the little ones from stealing the trees ( they do have there own but are attracted to freshly painted ones, he he)

In the end the finish product is so worth all the work. Look how sweet this Lavender's Tea Party Playbox is! It makes you want to pull up a log still and join in!

This Year you will find me at the:
Spring Crafts in Chelsea
Sponsored by The {NewNew} York Etsy Street Team
21st Str. between 8th and 9th Avenues

Waldorf School of Princeton May Fair
Saturday May 15, 2010

Max in Space

2010-04-05T20:49:00.000-07:00

Our adventure begins as Max has just finished Space Academy. He has been given his first spaceship named, The Friend Ship. His mission: to go out and make new friends. He will have to practice being a friend. Max will have to use all the things he learned in space school. Things like cooperation, sharing, listening, and being fair. He will be challenged along the way by meter showers, solving problems and learning the Golden Rule. He will be tested and have to follow the academy motto, The best way to make good friends is to be a good friend first. The Friend Ship is just the first playbox in a series that will take us to different planets, a crash landing on the moon, and needing to go to the space recycle center to find a needed part to save a friend. Let your kids join in all the adventure by bringing Max in Space home. Where will your child take him?

Max in space was lovingly created for my middle son, Max. Max loves robots, and I wanted to create something that he would cherish forever. I wanted to create toys that would be loved and passed down from parent to child for generations to come. With the dangers of plastic all over the news in the last year, we got rid of the playsets that had PVC in them. I didn't want my kids to lose out on the fun interactive play that playsets bring, so I started making my own. That first day when Max in Space was brought to life my kids could not put it down.
Find Max in space items here.

Easter Sunday

2010-04-04T18:06:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful day full of fun!

They kids woke up early to new basket....

brimming with treasures, some from the NaturalKids Team.

We had a lovely Easter Egg Hunt in the Garden.

Then Off to Grandma's House!

Where to find items in this post:
Bendy Bunny Doll and Bendy Pirate Doll by Princess Nimble-Thimble

Felted Ponies by MissButton

Knitted Pink Organic Piggies by woolies

Wooden Catapult by WoodToyShop

Fabric Easter Baskets by Crazy4Embroidery

Spring Banner by ADDIEBUGS

NaturalKids Eye Candy

2010-04-03T22:40:00.000-07:00

Mushrooms

Maple Shade Kids

Cute Little Thing

Harvest Moon by Hand

And The Winner is!!!!!

2010-03-31T23:30:00.000-07:00

The winner of our Spring Giveaway was picked by my youngest son the old fashion way! All entries were placed in a bowl and a tiny hand drew out..... #1!
The Winner is Jingle!

The Business of Doing Business: Are you a Business or a Hobby?

2010-03-25T20:43:00.000-07:00

There has been a lot of talk about pricing. Lots of talk about too high, too low! I think it really comes down to are you a hobby or a business? Having a small business in your home can give you great tax breaks, many great deductions and a loss can be deducted from you other household income.

See these links for more great information:
http://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/article-30176.html

http://sbinformation.about.com/od/taxes/a/Topdeduction_ga.htm

http://images.businessweek.com/ss/09/02/0217_unsung_deductions/index.htm

How do you know if you are a business? There is the "3 of 5" test, need to make a profit 3 out of the 5 years you are in business. A loss more the 2 years in a row can get you flagged for an audit by the IRS. So if you have a loss on year 3 be prepared to prove you are a business.

See these links for more great information:
http://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/article-30000.html

http://www.ipowerweb.com/iboost/manage/business/your_business/40004.htm

http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/turning-hobby-into-business-means-tax-breaks.aspx

Pricing is hard to figure out and there are many formulas. The base to all of them is figuring out your cost. Cost - supplies + fees/overhead + Expenses + your time (wage) = Wholesale. Retails is double wholesale. Most Etsy shops that are making real money/"quite your day job" also do wholesale. Make sure you do your math before engaging is consignment and wholesale ventures.

See these links for more great information:
http://www.whatthecraft.com/arts/pricing.htm

http://artsandcrafts.about.com/od/accountingandpricing/a/priceyourcrafts.htm

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/301520/how_to_price_your_crafts_for_online.html?cat=35

Hope these tips help you see the difference and help you on your way to having success!

Have a pricing formula or great tax tip add it to the comments to share with others!!

Wordless Wednesday: Spring Flowers

2010-03-24T09:44:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peek, What's New this Week

2010-03-21T12:06:00.000-07:00

Fairy Charm School

That year we meet Miss Marigold as she move to The Fairy Ring and opened the Charm School.

The fairy children enjoyed their days filled with learning and play.

Today they will share show and Tell. Pansy brings her pet Ladybug and Sweetpea bring her favorite leaf from her collection. Miss Marigold brings special cookies from Pytunia's Stand.

And on a very rare New Year's Blue Moon there was magic all around as new thing sprouted up in The Fairy Ring.

A playground for the little one.

What comes next? You will have to wait and see, but here is a hint.... it happens only on a Blue Moon!

You can shop for my The Fairy Ring toys on Etsy and find other magical toys.

Thoughts on the importance of natural toys for creative play

2010-03-19T19:52:00.000-07:00

The Fairies' Nest says:
With all the over stimulation that children are exposed to in our modern culture they need the time and the tools to connect with the natural world in a peaceful and harmonious way. This is how we learn to think creatively and critically! Natural toys are a part of this because they allow for open ended play that requires imagination. And just getting kids outside is so important...let them make up their own games, build forts, and find treasures like acorn tea cups and magic stick wands. This is the stuff of magic!

My Family's Story: A Boy and His Dog

2010-03-18T23:26:00.000-07:00

My oldest was an early talker, thinker, and doer. From the time he was 2 he would look out the front door and just wait. Sitting there for the longest time. One day I asked him what he was waiting for, he looked up and said, "My dog Gossy". There it was, words sent out into the universe. The dreams of a child and his faith they would come true.

It did, the day they met was magical. Gossy was a rowdy boy the former owner said, no one wanted him. I think he was just waiting for his real boy to show up. He came over an sat by us and to this day there has never been more of a gentleman of a dog then he.

He loves his family and watches those kids like a good knight! He loves to herd them like a good cattle dog would. He has a sweet face and fits in perfectly to our active house. So if you are debating if a family pet is right for your family follow your heart. Be open to the good things that will come your way, even the 4 legged good things!

Look at that face!

Good boy Gossy! Good Boy!

Wordless Wednesday: Spring Showers

2010-03-17T23:25:00.000-07:00

Mermaid Tale part 2

2010-03-16T22:20:00.000-07:00

The morning waters were cold, and it was hard for the mergirls to leave their warm seaweed beds. First up was Story, ready to face the day and the journey that was ahead of them. She made gentle ripples in the water as she waved her tail in her sisters’ direction, waking them. Their coral home was filled with the song that their mother sang. A song of the tale of the journey to the rainbow valley and the visit to the home of the other magical creatures. The girls were overflowing with joy, and they bounced out of their beds with the realization that this year they would be allowed to go on the journey as well.

After a few bits to eat, their family was off. Father would meet them later in the deep sea and they could not wait to see him. All along the way they saw new sea life and creatures in bright colors. It seemed as though the sea was alive again with spring. A school of dolphins swam by and greeted the family. The girls were having a grand time playing hide the shell and racing the young dolphins . It was as if the whole ocean was their playground. Mother swam ahead and was never very far. As long as they could hear her sing they knew they were safe.

Verse was not as strong a swimmer as her sisters and so mostly stayed with mother. When she felt stronger she would venture out to frolic and play with her sisters. The mermaids found an old ship and decided to take a rest and find some food to eat. Mother Song reminded them not to go to far, but allowed them to explore. The girls decided to play hide and seek since Verse had been longing to play. Reason, ever so thoughtful, decided to take the first turn as seeker, so as she counted her sisters began to hide.

Verse saw Story and Rhyme duck into small spaces and heard them giggle as they went. She wanted to find a great place, but her bright red hair would always give her away. No matter how she tried, it would alway sneak out and be like a big flag waving in the water giving her hiding spot away. Verse decided to go into a hole on the side of the ship and quickly braided her hair to keep it tame. She found a cozy dark spot in a corner, and tucked her tail in behind some old crates and barrels.

Reason was outside and wasted no time finding Story and Rhyme, and they all went off together to find Verse. The girls were starting to get worried just as their mother started to sing to let them know it was time to leave. The three girls looked at each other and all feared the same thing. What if they could not find her, what if mother found out? Would she think them not old enough for the journey and take them all back? They started to softly call her name, but got no reply. They split up and searched more of the area.

Then Rhyme saw the hole in the ship with a dark shadow moving inside. Calling to her sisters to join her, she hurriedly explained what she saw. The mergirls hearts beat a little faster as they knew all too well what it was. A shark, long, grey and fierce looking! Story gave a little cry, and they all became very fearful. Just then the shark saw them too, and now the sisters all knew they were in trouble!

Come back next week to see what happens......

One year ago I introduced my Mermaid Tales. To find out about my inspiration for the mermaids go here.
You can shop for my mermaids on Etsy and find other magical toys.
To Read: Part 1

NaturalKids Eye Candy

2010-03-15T22:09:00.000-07:00

Spring

Day of Rest

Imagination Kids

Eve's Little Earthlings

Business Solutions : Etsy Finds

2010-03-14T10:05:00.000-07:00

Great Office Storage

kathip22

BirchLeaf Designs

TerisTreasure

My Studio

2010-03-13T21:30:00.000-08:00

Dream Board

Okay, so I am using the term studio very loosely. Like when you are first moving to a big city and look at a "studio" apartment and find out it means that your closet in your childhood bedroom is larger then the whole apartment! My room is 5' by 9' and with that kind of space you need to design upward!

I also had to get better lighting, and so, I made a spot right by one of my windows to use as my photography area. I have a shipping and packaging area, display area, idea in progress area, and lots of storage. I reused what I could, bought items from IKEA and got some from Freecycle!

My IKEA storage is great for keeping all my little items organized and I have two great little helpers that love to do inventory for unfinished pieces they can paint! Hope you like getting a glimpse into my world.

Next week I will show you my new space as I have taken over the room adjacent to this small room. I have been finding great Etsy Finds for Business Solutions and I can't wait to share them with you.

Thoughts on the importance of natural toys for creative play

2010-03-12T10:57:00.000-08:00

Woolies on Etsy says:
Children's imaginations are incredible things. I love to see a child come alive, with a natural toy in their hands. I think a big set of natural blocks is one of the greatest toys a child can have - let them imagine a city or a fort or a tunnel. One day I'll write a book - Plastic is the death of the human race. (lol).

Twitter 101

2010-03-11T11:16:00.000-08:00

MapleShadeKids

Understanding Twitter:

Twitter is best done if you think of it as making connections not friends. Think of what you type as a commercial but add a little personality to it by adding some of you daily thoughts and activities.

How to get Started:

You only see what people you follow type and followers are the only people who see what you type

Now the first step ( after filling out you profile and what you type are you keywords for people to search for you!) is you must go follow people, up on the right hand side click {find people). Now type in keywords: Etsy, Mom, Mother,Crafter, Kids, etc., next click to follow them.

Next Step:

They will then follow you! Then in a few days follow some more people. You will slowly build a following (people who see what you type).

Then go to the Twitter and Facebook Promotion Page and copy and paste text!

Keep an eye on the followers and make sure you follow them back or they will unfollow you! (I do not follow back anyone who has semi - porn text or photo)

All collage art and decor art can be found on Etsy.

MapleShadeKids is a member of the NaturalKids Team on Etsy. Wanda is a mother of 3 children and says: Many of my works are inspired by nature and the simple things in life: little birds, hugs, the huge maple trees surrounding our New England farmhouse and all the little critters living in them.

Check out some of her links:

FACEBOOK
TWITTER

SHOP

Wordless Wednesday: The Princess

2010-03-09T21:30:00.000-08:00

Mermaid Tales Part 1

2010-03-09T00:32:00.000-08:00

Underwater, where the mermaids live, is a magical wonderland full of life. Once in a blue moon the mermaids make the rare journey to Fairyland, and the little mer-girls have a wonderful adventure along the way. Now you can join them with this wonderful playset.
The Spring thaw is upon us and the creeks, lakes and rivers are all overflowing. The many waters have blended together all the way to the sea. It is at this time of year that the Mermaids make the great trip to visit the other magical creatures.
Rhyme, Reason, Story, and Verse are all old enough and strong enough to make the trip. Come join them on their adventure to see things that were once just bedtime tales to them. These wonderful little girls are ready to swim and play.
Reason is thoughtful. She is the oldest twin and oldest of all the sisters. She thinks through problems and keeps peace between her sisters.
Rhyme is a sweet little Mermaid who loves to play. She is the youngest of the twins. She loves to play hide and seek in the coral reef.
Story weaves tales for her sisters. Tales about land dwellers, humans, and fairies alike.
Verse is the youngest; she is whimsical and fiery as her hair. She has a big adventurous side and often gets in trouble for wandering too far.
Song is the mommy, and she loves her little girls. She teaches them and keeps them safe, but they love it most when she sings.

Come back next week to find out what happens next!
One year ago I introduced my Mermaid Tales. To find out about my inspiration for the mermaids go here.
You can shop for my mermaids on Etsy and find other magical toys.

NaturalKids Eye Candy

2010-03-08T15:44:00.000-08:00

Eggtastic

Sewn Natural

Daria Lvovsky

Imagination Kids

Thoughts on the importance of natural toys for creative play

2010-03-07T15:07:00.000-08:00

HandFull on Etsy says:
A child's mind is first. The toys (or clothing) are an extension of the child's essence. The energy that comes through the child brings a toy to life. Therefore, keep it simple and natural and hear the sounds of the child. Nobody want to hear a noisy toy.

Update To Business 2010

2010-03-06T07:07:00.000-08:00

As my business has grown it has become a part of the family. My husband helps with the branding, website, and marketing needs. My kids love to sort all the unfinished wooden pieces and help put the pieces together for orders.

I am also very happy and proud to add my parents to our business. This is a wonderful creative outlet for their retirement years.

My mom, Barbara Anne, helps with the prepping and finish work like sanding. She will soon be adding some wonderful sewn items that work with the toys and have been waiting on my "to create" list. Items that will help with storing and carrying the playsets and toys.

My dad, Fred, will be doing the cutting of my wooden creations. We have found a wonderful local "mom and pop" sawmill to get all the wood we need. My father has always loved wood working and I have stocked his work shed with lots of new tools for creating fun play things.

A little Etsy Love Today

2010-03-05T11:56:00.000-08:00

Easter/Spring NaturalKids Team Blog-A-Thon

2010-03-03T21:46:00.000-08:00

The NaturalKids Team was started by woodmouse in 2007. Early members included faerierebecca, fairiesnest, cozycottage. It was a small group, with a small presence on etsy. Since that time members have come and gone but our mission has stayed the same. To be a group of sellers dedicated to creating natural products for children. We are a diverse group of artisans who make natural toys, utensils, clothing and accessories for kids. Our sellers work with materials from the Earth, such as wool, cotton, silk and wood. Our goal is to support, promote and have fun together while building our businesses. 
 

One of our 1st Team Blog Post read as below and it is still true today....

We are a diverse bunch from all over the globe who have at least one thing in common:  we all work with natural materials in our products for children.  Oh yeah, and we're all pretty darn crafty & talented too!  Wool, wood, cotton...just simple materials direct from the Earth.

So who are we?  

Some of us are mothers of small children.

Some of us are mothers of grown children.

Some of us make dolls, some of us make hats, some of us make toys.

Some of us have been selling our wares for many years.

Some of us are just starting to discover our talents and start selling.

Some of us work with natural materials for environmental reasons.

Some of us work with natural materials as part of the Waldorf educational philosophy.

Some of us work with natural materials because we believe they are healthier and safer.

Some of us just like working with natural materials.

Some of us sell our wares for a living.

Some of us sell our wares as a hobby.

Since that time, some of us are fathers.

To celebrate Spring I am offering a giveaway something sweet to arrive in time for Easter.

Magic Mushroom Garden Set

To enter this giveaway you must:

Be a follower or become a follower of this blog.

You must leave a comment with contact information.

You may blog about this Giveaway to get an additional entry.

You may Facebook about this Giveaway to get an additional entry.

You may tweet about this Giveaway to get an additional entry.

This Giveaway is open to everyone, everywhere!
Giveaway will end March 26, 2010.

Thank you for reading and now join in the fun to take a trip to see what you may find at these NaturalKids Team Members Blogs! Happy Spring!!!

Visit these Blogs:
http://thefairiesnest.blogspot.com
http://SewnNaturalstudio.blogspot.com

http://www.tribaltimes.blogspot.com/

http://www.katsinthebelfry.blogspot.com

www.polarbearcreations.blogspot.com

http://fairtradefamily.blogspot.com/

http://germandolls.blogspot.com

http://www.curlymonkeyandco2.blogspot.com

http://www.bananabottoms.blogspot.com

http://woolies-woolies.blogspot.com
http://birchleafdesigns.blogspot.com
http://pinpon-dayanara.blogspot.com

http://sqrlbee.blogspot.com/

http://www.thesittingtree.net

http://www.themuddyfoot.blogspot.com

http://harvestmoonbyhand.blogspot.com

http://viltalakim.blogspot.com

Happily Ever After, Why These Stories are Important

2009-10-19T05:54:00.000-07:00

To tell the truth these dolls I made for me. I loved fairytales! When I was growing up I often recreated them in my playtime. I did my chores while pretending to be Cinderella. These dolls and playsets are where play can recreate old time Fairytales.

I hear people say that these stories were not good role models for girls, but I feel it depends on how you tell the story. These were tales told in a time when woman were thought of as less, and they gave our fore-mothers the inspiration to bring change to each generation. All the way up to now to get us to where we are and the rights we now have.

These girls had power in spite of the odds, certain doom, and personal tragedy they suffered. They changed their world in a time when women had no rights. These stories have a powerful message that is still of value to the girls of this and the next generation. These are not just silly stories; they are our past and our future.

These wooden toys and more can be found at http://www.theenchantedcupboard.etsy.com/

No Mattel Needed .... Are you my Dolly

2009-10-15T06:37:00.001-07:00

Who needs plastic dolls created in a lab, formed in a mold, and off gassing in you child's environment. Buy a handmade doll made with love out of natural materials. Have a Handmade Holiday! Shop Etsy.com and search naturalkids !

Business Wednesday:Be an Internet Litterbug

2009-10-14T21:25:00.000-07:00

Don't think you have money to put ads up all over the internet, not in the budget.Well then start being an internet litterbug
! What if I told you about a way to advertise for free, and it was better then any 125 X 125 ad out there. How? By your words! Everytime you read a blog remember to leave comments and sign with your links!

People love to read comments and if they like what you say they will check out the links you left behind. Make sure you are writting about the subject you are reading, DON'T use the comment area as a place to market yourself or put a commercial. Just let your links do the work. I have been experimenting with this for a while and my Google Analytics service tells me my comments bring in larger amounts of views then any paid ad. I try to go read 5 blogs/ online newsletters a week and leave my comments and links.

Leaving your links around is also good for your Google Analytics (GA). Everytime you leave a link behind it is like "raising your hand" to be seen by the SE (Search Engine), the more times your link is posted the more you move up in the Google search, it is great free advertising for you. Think of the Search Engine as a scene from an old 80's movie where they would show shots of the floor of Wall Street. All those people yelling and holding there hand up. The tallest and loudest trader got the best trades. The same works for the SE, the more your links are seen the higher you will be listed on Google, Yahoo, AOL, etc.

Go see where you are now in a SE, search for you shops or blog name. Where did you come up in the SE listing? First listing, first page or did you have to search many pages? Next search for items you make, or for a blog topic you wrote about. Use this information to know where you are now and as a foundation for where your hard work will take you. Start doing the work and check back in a month to see if you links are moving you up. Follow these tips and you will start to see an increase in your clicks and sales!
Good Luck!

Product Review: Custom Playscapes by Rumpos

2009-10-12T21:34:00.000-07:00

Here is another GREAT Etsy find! We just feel in love with this shop, Rumpos. These great playscapes are custom made and you get such a great selection to pick from.

Here is what the seller listed:
A medium 15x15 inch custom playscape with 4-6 natural elements from your imagination, or I can work with you to create the perfect playscape. Look at the photographs for ideas or for remake requests. Your playscape will be made from natural materials and depict a natural environment perfect for imaginative, narrative play with fingers and figurines or for a centerpiece on a dining or nature table. These are also wonderful display items in the home, playroom, or office.

We could not just pick one and bough a few to go with different wooden toys we already had. I gave the seller an idea of what would be played with in the different playscapes and allowed her to be creative. One of the really great parts about Etsy.com is that you get to chat with the sell/designer and find out where they got there inspiration from. This got thumbs up from the kids and one big one from mommy.

If you like what you see and want to know more check out my interview with Mary Ann of Rumpos.

Reflections of the week: The Wrap Up

2009-10-10T23:00:00.000-07:00

This week was about a lot of wrapping up. My first year on Etsy had come to a close. I have learned so much and have reached all my goals. We celebrate with a little party and some fun food! I reached out to an old boss to get some business advice. It was just what I needed to hear on the exact topic that I was struggling with. I didn't ask specifics just a general "What do you think?", and it was truly fate in action.

My oldest son finished reading his Science book, yes school did just start a few weeks ago! Smart kids challenge you in ways you didn't even know existed! We are looking into Library options since our city closed them down. We don't get to use the county Library either because the city did not pay the fees. Our options are to pay the $75.00 fee to become members to one in the next town. At first I thought we would just increase our used book budget but my son finished a book series of 10 books in less then a week.

We have finish the NaturalKids Team website and poor Wade is getting some well deserved rest! It was a week of ups and downs but ended with a great big bang! I have been Nominated for 2009’s Top Eco-Friendly Toys Contest more on this to come!

The NaturalKids Store

2009-10-06T21:37:00.000-07:00

My favorite Etsy Team that I belong to is The NaturalKids Team. When I was a buyer on Etsy and planning my new business I really love the feel of this group. I am very goal oriented and I knew it would be my goal to make items that would fit with their point of view. When I got to become a member it was my goal to do what I could to be an active supportive member. I love all these great artist and the wonders that come out of their creative minds. I was recently voted in as Ad Administrator for the group. I have so enjoyed serving these great people and taking them closer to the goal of being able to make good livings from a craft we love to do.

This Holiday Season skip the big box store and come peek in our shops to fill you holiday list. I am not only a member but a shopper too. A great benefit to the team is many of our items compliment and play well together. Here are a few I have bought. Keep checking back to find out more about these Artists.

Pirate Island Playscape Custom made by Rumpos

Small Rainbow Stacker by Imagination Kids
Fairy Silkies by BeneathTheRowanTree
Wooden Dolls and Playsets by The Enchanted Cupboard
Check out more Great Artist on our Members Page

Fun With Food: Making Flat Bread

2009-10-05T23:01:00.000-07:00

This summer we made a plan to go with out air conditioning for as long as we could. We made it till the very hot month parts of August and September but still used it sparingly when we did turn it on. The one downside to this plan was, baking bread in the hot days of summer.

I started About 2 years ago I started to grind my own wheat for our bread and baked goods. The benefits of fresh ground wheat are overwhelming and out weigh an extra work it makes. So now I was faced with over heating our house or giving up my baking. I was not prepared to do either and I researched other options.

When I first started my homestead green living lifestyle I was in love with the idea that I could make anything. Our own ketchup, hamburger buns, salad dressing, and laundry soap to name a few of the things we make for ourselves. It was so rewarding to know when we ran out it did not mean a trip to the grocery store but to mix a few ingredients already in my pantry.

I started researching other ways of making bread type items without the oven. I checked out bread makes and bought an inexpensive bread maker that is working out nicely and is great for mixing up dough that I may use for rolls or pizzas! I also found some great recipes that are for making flat breads on the stove top. The kids and I experimented and made a recipe that works for us. It has a good bit of oil in it but in makes a nice dough that is easy for kids to roll out.

Whole Wheat Flat Bread
2 cups Whole Wheat Flour
1.5 cups All Purpose Flour
0.5 t Baking powder
7 T Oil
1 cup very hot water

3 minute of kneading
15 minute to rest under wet warm towel
Form into Golf Ball size balls
Roll out and cook on a cast iron grill or non stick pan

ENJOY!!

WOW

2009-10-02T23:33:00.000-07:00

What a week this has been, so much done and so much happening.

Read my latest feedback:
I am probably looking more forward to showing these things off at the wedding than anything else! You nailed the way my fiancé looks! We plan on turning them into Christmas ornaments after the big day so we will have a fun way to display them for years and years! Thank you, they are wonderful!!

I just love that she is going to take my craft and make it in to something new and reusing it! My next big surprise was that I have been contacted by The Knot mag. they are going to be featuring my Wooden Wedding Cake Toppers sold in my shop on Etsy! My head has been spinning ever since I heard the news! Interested in a set of custom dolls contact me.

A Princess and a Plumber, Who knew?

2009-09-30T22:02:00.000-07:00

As I promised in my blog entry about my Cake Toppers I am letting you see the newest Wooden Cake Topper.This is a very popular pick for the gaming couple. More fun Cake Toppers with themes coming soon to The Enchanted Cupboard! You can also get fun extra pieces to add to the other cake layers. What would be your favorite theme? Mad Hatter Tea Party, Pirates, Mermaids, and a Woodland theme Cake Toppers to come soon! Have an idea? Leave it in the comments and you may see it in my shop soon!

The Reluctant City Dweller

This Journey Ends... Reluctant City Dweller No More!

Team Spirit

Where have these 10 years Gone?

Wednesday is Create Day

So here is how we will do it:

Go to my facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/TheEnchantedCupboard

Enter an idea for a playset/playbox and you get (one) entry at winning it. If we get a few good ideas we will vote to narrow it down to just one, everyone will get to watch me create it on my blog and then the contest will happen her where you can enter more times to win!

LETS HAVE SOME FUN!!!

Educational Toys

Stand and Fight

Too Hot to Cook - Crock Pot Chicken Wings

Stocking Day - Hyena Cart

Look What the Mailman brought part 3

Some Etsy Love

Would You Die For Beauty?

Christmas in July from NaturalKids Team

More Art From Erin Price

Wordless Wednesday: Happy Birthday Max!

Living the Gluten Free Life - Lasagna

About Zucchini Lasagna

No More Bridal Flip Flops

Muddy Feet Giveaway on NaturalKids Blog

More Art Work From Deborah A Davis

Gaea Returns Home

The Toy Maker's Table

Who Am I? Part 3

Save The Butterflies

4TH Of July

NaturalKids Eye Candy

Look What the Mailman brought part 2

The Reason I Have Approvals Done - Wedding Cake Topper Giveaway

Finish - Wedding Cake Topper Giveaway

Natural Kids: Saturday Giveaway - Wool Crown from Kats in the Belfry

Wordless Wednesday...

Recap on Illegal Wedding Fair in NYC

What The Bride Said...

Etsy Handmade Wedding Finds

Step 1, Custom Wedding Cake Toppers

Illegal Wedding Fair in NYC

Meet The Winners of the Wedding Cake Topper Giveaway

Hopeless Romantic

Lets Start at the Very Beginning

June the Month for Weddings

NaturalKids stocking at Hyena

What to Do....

Protect the Great Lakes

Some Family fun!

Who Am I? Part 2

OOAK Soft Sculpture Cloth Art Doll Maeve The Fall Fairy Queen

OOAK Soft Sculpture Cloth Art Doll

All Snug in Their Bed

Fairies, Fairies Everywhere

CRAFTS IN CHELSEA part 2

NaturalKids Eye Candy

Going to Work Day With Daddy

My Kids are the Luckiest Kids in the World

CRAFTS IN CHELSEA

Locally Harvested

And The Winner is!!!!!

Mushrooms, Mushrooms Everywhere

Look What the Mailman brought

Not Just Any Toy Storage

Etsy 'Jerseylicious' Finds

Who Am I?

NaturalKids Eye Candy

I Just Love This!

Some Etsy Love

Tips from Women of Etsy - Wanda of MapleShadeKids

Wordless Wednesday: Everett's Photo

Team Work

NaturalKids Eye Candy

The Studio Redo and a Giveaway

Tips from Women of Etsy - Lauren of Bradens Grace

April Showers bring May....Craft Fairs

Max in Space

Easter Sunday

NaturalKids Eye Candy

And The Winner is!!!!!

Enter an idea for a playset/playbox and you get (one) entry at winning it.
If we get a few good ideas we will vote to narrow it down to just one, everyone will get to watch me create it on my blog and then the contest will happen her where you can enter more times to win!