Win a $25 gift certificate to the PopkoShop

I first discovered Popko’s Butterfly Wing Jewelry about 3 years ago, and I still absolutely love them, so I was thrilled when I saw this announcement:

These gorgeous pendants are custom-made using real butterfly wings from Butterfly Conservations where the butterflies live their full lives until they naturally expire. The artist explains that “explains that “It’s one of those gardens where the butterflies can fly around and even land on you. Unfortunately, they have a short life span. But I am lucky enough to share them beyond that.” 🙂

Anyway, the giveaway is open for just a couple of days, so better hurry over to Popko’s Facebook page and enter now!

Image from Popko’s Etsy shop.

Lovin’ on Etsy

“There is more treasure in books than in all the pirate’s loot on Treasure Island.”  – Walt Disney

I agree completely! And that’s probably why I was so drawn to this quirky necklace, featured recently as Craftster’s project of the week. Creator malmow said she was inspired by a necklace from Anthropologie that retails for $168!

Personally, I prefer the DIY version (and not just because it’s cheaper!) All it takes is a headpin, some old book pages or recycled paper, a necklace chain, a few small strips of leather, and a bit of patience.

Photo Challenge Day 25: Rocks, Stones & Pebbles

"My kind of rock" Photo © Gwenelle, April 2011

I took a slightly different approach to today’s topic. I just couldn’t think of what/where to shoot rocks, stones and/or pebbles, but then I thought of this photo. Plus, I like showing off my ring because the diamond was my Christmas present – an upgrade from the tiny chip that was all we could afford when we got married.  Now it’s a 1/3 carat, which isn’t nearly as big as some people I know, but it’s just perfect for me!

This post is part of a 30-Day Photo Challenge hosted by Blessed Beyond Words. Click here to see more of my photography, including previous posts for the challenge.

Photo Challenge Day 6: Shadows

"String of Pearls" Photo © Gwenelle, April 2011

For some reason, today’s topic “Shadows” was hard for me. I had hoped for a sunny-ish day so I’d have some opportunities outdoors for photos, but apparently the weather system over Portland is stuck in February – poor hubby got snowed on today near Salem! Anyhow, I started wandering the apartment with my camera and a little desk lamp, hunting for some fun or quirky shadows. I ended up trying for a bit of elegance instead with this shot of my pearl necklaces–I hardly ever wear them, but they’re so pretty 🙂

This post is part of a 30-Day Photo Challenge hosted by Blessed Beyond Words. Click here to see more of my photography, including previous posts for the challenge.

Jewel-It-Yourself with House Party and Jolee’s!

 Recently I was selected to host a party sponsored by Jolee’s Jewels and HouseParty.com.  Yesterday I received my party pack in the mail and couldn’t wait to open it and check out all the goodies.

I hadn’t heard of Jolee’s Jewels before, but I’ve used scrapbook embellishments from the same brand and loved them.  So I was really happy to give jewelry-making a try.

“Experienced jewelry-makers study for years to perfect their craft, but with Jolee’s Jewels^™ you can begin creating your own unforgettable pieces in no time. Jolee’s Jewels^™ marries simple design with elegant materials, making it easy to create a piece that is perfect for you and your unique style.”