Beaches (and the Friday Freebie)

I have been working hard trying to get some Christmas gifts done the last couple weeks.  I have all of my crocheted dish cloths done, I've started some quilted coasters, and I've made (and remade) some awesome lotion bars.  Add a little candy and maybe a small piece of jewelry, and you've got yourself a Bag of Awesome Randomness.  That's what I'm calling the gift bags I'm giving to family and friends this year.  I'm really hoping everyone likes them.  I gave my one friend (who will be receiving one) an idea of what will be inside and she was super excited.  Yay!

I also have been working on a lot of new beaded paintings.  I'm enjoying them so much, I think more then I ever enjoyed making jewelry (and I love making jewelry).  And best of all, I've actually been listing them in my etsy store.  I know right, that's something I haven't done in a long time.

Here is one that I finished a few weeks ago, it's called Beaches (if your a fan on facebook, you've already seen this).

I bought a bunch of cabs, large beads, and pendents a while back that have been sitting in my studio collecting dust.  I knew I wanted to use them for something, but I wasn't sure what.  Well, I'm glad I hung onto them, because they are working great in my paintings.

This one has a glass mermaid bead, I think it was supposed to be a pendent, but I don't remember.

And I also got to use some of my large charms that I've had for ages.

I think my mom bought these and then gave them to me years ago.  I was actually thinking about donating them somewhere.  But I'm finding new use for them with my paintings.

I'm currently working on a painting that is a remake of one of my favorite cuffs.  It's taking a LOT longer then I had anticipated, but I'm okay with that.  It's going to be awesome!!!!

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And let's not forget freebie Friday.  This week I have another Christmas project; cute paper trees.  These would make such cute decorations.  I'm excited to make some for around the house.

This download includes three digital papers, eleven page elements, and four quick pages.  And the best part is when you use your My Memories software, you can fully customize these guys.

And don't forget, you can use my promo code, STMMMS11215, to get $10 off the My Memories Software and then an additional $10 off any purchase in the store. That's a pretty cool deal. The My Memories folks have some really great scrapbooking things. And even if you don't scrapbook, the software and extras are really awesome. I don't scrapbook, but I love the software to make interesting blog post pictures. I even used it to make some labels for my homemade granola bars, so J wouldn't have to guess flavors anymore. Just use STMMMS11215 to get the discounts.

I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend.  Any one have any crafty plans?