Saturday, December 31, 2011

Getting it done!

Well, I did it. For the first time in over a week, I made a to do list today. And I even crossed some things off of it. And that's on top of a full day of laundry and cooking homemade TexMex. I feel complete.

One of the things I accomplished was to clean out my freezer. It's been one of those tasks that niggles in the back of my mind, fairly shouting at me when I make my almost daily trip out to the garage to retrieve something. Most of the time it's been out of sight, out of mind. This day, however, it made it to my to do list, and got done. (Muchas gracias to my daughter for helping me by holding the trash bag and counting chicken. Such special bonding time.) 

When we moved to our present location, I cleaned out oversaw the cleaning out of two refrigerators by above-mentioned daughter. One fridge was coming with us to be stored, the other was staying behind. No time to clean out the poor freezer; I just locked her door and hoped for the best.  Did you know that Hot Pockets could probably survive twenty years (and maybe a nuclear explosion) when frozen without changing their appearance, taste, or chemical makeup one iota? But they went in the trash nonetheless. Apparently, they were not all my son hoped they would be.

I didn't label anything in the freezer, but I did group things (you'll see two tubs of chicken breasts: one with bone, one without -- chicken has been on sale a lot at Kroger lately). And I have plenty of flour. Guess that holiday baking plan didn't work out quite like I hoped. Again. Back to the chicken... I did also put the oldest to the front to get used up sooner. And I excavated a ham bone from last Christmas. Good grief.

OrganizedHome.com
Thankfully, I remembered a resource I had used two houses ago to help me keep up with what's in the freezer. OrganizedHome.com has an awesome, very user-friendly Freezer Inventory form. You just list what you have, then draw a slash in the boxes next to the blank to show the quantity on hand for that item. When you use remove an, you just draw a slash the other direction (making an X). Genius!

Oh, after tackling the freezer and a few other things, I made these:


Oh so good. More on that later...

Happy New Year!




I linked this on:


Chic on a Shoestring Decorating
Chic on a Shoestring Decorating







© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Thursday, December 22, 2011

 Merry Christmas, y'all!












© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Keep Calm and...

 Just having a little fun today:





And, speaking of shopping, come browse the beautiful products in my online stores, as well as view special offers, here.



© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Introducing... Jules @ Just Jules

One of the neat things about the internet is that it seems to have shrunk the world. I've enjoyed getting to know women from around the country through their blogs, and I'll like to introduce a few of them to you over the next few weeks. I've only met one of these ladies in person, but these are all women who have inspired me in one way or another. I hope you'll enjoy getting to know them. Be sure to stop by their blogs, too!




Jules LaPierre (well, Julie, but just call her Jules) is a self-described sassy Christian blogger with foodie tendencies. A former cemetery and funeral director trained in graphic design (go figure!), she is married to a professional artist and homeschools their nine-year-old son in Shawnee Mission, Kansas. Her blog, Just Jules, is designed to “challenge Christian women to think biblically and live obediently”. And to cook well, I might add.



Please share your job description in 25 words or less.   
Headmistress at The Impossibly Irregular Academy for Hopelessly
Unsocialized Children
What is the most challenging part of your job?
Remembering that education, like life, is a marathon and not a sprint.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?  
Being mommy as well as teacher, for all mothers are also teachers.
What is your favorite room in your home? (and please tell us why) 
The kitchen. I have strong
foodie tendencies.  Cooking is a joy and a catharsis for me.  I take great pleasure in cooking a meal that makes my family & friends roll their eyes...in a good way :)
Please share a favorite recipe you’ve cooked or DIY project you’ve done.
One family favorite, that is requested more than any other, are my Sweet Sausage Grinders.  These are wonderful when you're feeding a crowd and are a game-day favorite.  Flavor, flavor, flavor! 


When you are unmotivated, what keeps you going?

Prayer and coffee and remembering that tomorrow is a new day with new grace.  Psalm 30:5 is true.  "Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning."

What sage advice would you give a young woman today who would like to marry?

Invest more in the marriage than you do in the wedding -and- if you can laugh together you can make it through anything.


What were you doing thirty minutes before you answered these interview questions?

Picking up an order of grass-fed beef from a Kansas family farmer.

What’s your favorite Starbucks drink?
When I really want to indulge and spoil myself, I order a mocha breve because I need the calories (chuckle).




© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

The ANGEL on the shelf

Thanks for stopping by! This is the old version of Welcome to Willow House -- I'd love for you to click over to the newer site, where I'm adding new posts and Willow House deals! Click here to see my updated version of this post over on the new site. Thanks!


Don't you just love holiday traditions? My mom was always big on little traditions... like having one gift for us to open on Christmas Eve, like always having an orange and nuts in our Christmas stockings, like making sure a sweet little Valentine card awaited us at breakfast...

Here's a new tradition that your family will just love: find the Christmas angel. Angels played such an important role in the nativity, acting as God's messengers of truth in revealing His plan. One way to keep the focus on CHRISTmas this year is to use an angel as a reminder of the reason for the season.

On the first night of your new tradition (you  might want to time this to do the third Scripture reading on Christmas Eve), bring out your angel to show your children. Read through Luke 1:26-38 aloud with your children. Help them understand that the angel was serving God by bringing a very important message to Mary. Ask your children:
  • Do you think Mary was surprised to see the angel?
  • What did the angel tell Mary?
  • What was Mary's response? 
Now tell your children that you have an angel surprise for them. In the morning, when they wake up, they should look around the house for your angel. It might be on a shelf, a table, or even in a cupboard. Perhaps the child who finds the angel can be your special messenger that day, letting the family know when meals are ready, delivering notes, etc.

For several more nights, continue to review what you read in Luke 1 and remind your children to look for the angel each morning. When you are ready, read Matthew 1:18-25 aloud with your children. Ask them:
  • What had Joseph planned to do?
  • What did the angel tell Joseph?
  • What was Joseph's response?
Continue reviewing what you've read and hiding (often in plain sight) the angel for several more nights. Then, for your final reading, read through Luke 2:1-20 with your children. After reading, ask your children:
  • How did the shepherds feel when they saw the angel?
  • What did the angel tell them?
  • What happened next?
  • How did the shepherds respond?
If you read the final reading on Christmas Eve, you will "hide" the angel one more time. Perhaps this time you could hide it near a nativity or your Christmas tree -- somewhere the family might gather on Christmas morning. Once the family is gathered together, review -- even reread -- the passages you've shared together, "glorifying and praising God for all that {you} have heard and seen..." just as the shepherds did. 


SOLD OUT!  But check out the other products in my Willow House store. The Herald Angel, shown above, is one of many Willow House products on sale through 12/31/11. Regularly $28.96, it's available for just $9.96 while supplies last. At that price, you'll want one for your family and another to share. For those purchasing through my online store or by contacting me directly, I'll be happy to email you an attractive, printable copy of the Angel on the Shelf tradition suggestions. I hope this will help make the Christmas season more meaningful for your family!





Organize and Decorate Everything

Chic on a Shoestring Decorating







Lovely Crafty Home

Serenity you


 

© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Introducing... Emily @ Jones Design Company

One of the neat things about the internet is that it seems to have shrunk the world. I've enjoyed getting to know women from around the country through their blogs, and I'll like to introduce a few of them to you over the next few weeks. I've only met one of these ladies in person, but these are all women who have inspired me in one way or another. I hope you'll enjoy getting to know them. Be sure to stop by their blogs, too!



Emily Jones is a wife and mother of four who somehow finds time to create really pretty things. On her blog, Jones Design Company, Emily shares her love of beautiful things with us (literally – I’m talking nice monthly giveaways) along with home projects, recipes, and snippets of her life. Check out Emily’s shop here (aren’t the Scripture art prints wonderful?).



Please share your job description in 25 words or less.   
WIFE . MOMMY . GRAPHIC DESIGNER . ARTIST . BLOGGER . WRITER . DREAMER.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
BALANCING WORK TIME WITH MOMMY TIME. I LOVE MY FOUR LITTLE ONES, BUT GET SO MUCH PERSONAL FULFILLMENT OUT OF CREATING THAT SOMETIMES IT IS HARD TO KNOW WHEN TO LET GO AND JUST PLAY WITH MY KIDS.  AND KEEPING UP WITH EMAIL CAN BE CHALLENGING.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?  
I FIND IT HUMBLING AND SO FLATTERING THAT I AM ABLE TO JUST DO WHAT I LOVE {WHETHER CREATING ART PRINTS, EXPRESSING MY THOUGHTS OR SHARING A PROJECT HOW-TO} AND BE ABLE TO INSPIRE OTHER WOMEN THROUGH IT. THE COMMENTS FROM LADIES WHO HAVE DISCOVERED A CREATIVITY INSIDE OF THEM THEY NEVER KNEW THEY HAD AND CREDIT ME WITH INSPIRING IT ARE ALWAYS SUCH AN ENCOURAGEMENT TO ME.
What is your favorite room in your home? (and please tell us why) 
I AM GLAD TO SAY THAT I HAVE A FEW FAVORITE ROOMS IN OUR HOME. WE HAVE WORKED HARD TO TRANSFORM OUR ORDINARY NEW-CONSTRUCTION HOME INTO A PLACE WITH CHARACTER AND THE RESULTS HAVE REALLY MADE IT FEEL LIKE ‘US’. OUR KITCHEN IS THE MOST USED WITH LOTS OF FAMILY TIME, SO I LIKE IT. THE LIVING ROOM IS COZY AND FULL OF GREAT MEMORIES WITH FRIENDS, SO IT IS MY FAVORITE. OUR DAUGHTER’S NURSERY IS A BEAUTIFUL PIECE OF FEMININITY IN A HOUSEHOLD OF BOYS AND I LOVE THE SPACE THAT WAS CREATED IN THERE. AND MY OFFICE JUST FEELS LIKE ME. IT IS A GREAT PLACE TO CREATE AND BE INSPIRED.
Please share a favorite recipe you’ve cooked or DIY project you’ve done.
ONE OF MY FAVORITE PROJECTS I’VE DONE IS THE PAINTED WALLPAPER IN MY OFFICE. IT IS SUBTLE, BUT INTERESTING AND WAS SO REWARDING TO COMPLETE.


When you are unmotivated, what keeps you going?

DEADLINES! AND SOMETIMES I JUST NEED TO TAKE A BREAK FROM CREATING AND ENJOY THE THINGS THAT OTHERS HAVE CREATED.

What sage advice would you give a young woman today who would like to marry?

MARRIAGE IS WONDERFUL AND FULFILLING, BUT ONE OF THE GREATEST FORMS OF SELF-SACRIFICE. MY HUSBAND AND I HAVE LEARNED SO MUCH ABOUT SERVING, DESIRING TO BE UNSELFISH IN OUR ACTIONS AND WORDS AND HAVE HAD TO MATURE A LOT IN ORDER TO MAKE OUR HOUSEHOLD  FUNCTION SMOOTHLY. FOR A YOUNG WOMAN WHO WOULD LIKE TO MARRY, I WOULD SAY TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF, FIND WAYS TO SERVE OTHERS, DISCOVER YOUR PASSIONS AND MAKE SURE THE MAN YOU CHOOSE IS KIND AND RESPECTFUL.



What were you doing thirty minutes before you answered these interview questions?

CHECKING EMAIL, SHOPPING FOR BIRTHDAY GIFTS ON AMAZON FOR MY ALMOST FOUR-YEAR OLD, DRINKING COFFEE WITH EGGNOG.

What’s your favorite Starbucks drink?
REGULARLY: TALL, DECAF, EXTRA HOT, NONFAT VANILLA LATTE
DURING THE HOLIDAYS: TALL, DECAF, EXTRA HOT, NONFAT EGGNOG LATTE




© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Monday, November 7, 2011

Introducing... Melissa @ A Familiar Path


One of the neat things about the internet is that it seems to have shrunk the world. I've enjoyed getting to know women from around the country through their blogs, and I'll like to introduce a few of them to you over the next few weeks. I've only met one of these ladies in person, but these are all women who have inspired me in one way or another. I hope you'll enjoy getting to know them. Be sure to stop by their blogs, too!



Melissa Stover lives in a small town in rural Arkansas, where she encourages one husband, homeschools four “sheltered, anti-social children”, and shoots some amazing photos of life. Melissa’s blog, A Familiar Path, provides little snapshots of her day in a mix of words and photos. Find out more about her photo business here.



Please share your job description in 25 words or less.   
I'm a child and family photographer in South Arkansas. I'm also a blogger, juggling two blogs, and an occasional writer for companies.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
Finding a good balance between how much I want to work and how much I can work. Both of my jobs as photographer and blogger take a lot of my mental energy as well as sitting down at the computer for chunks of time. I love doing it, but my main focus right now is educating my children and being a mother. I don't want to neglect that job, so I limit what I take on with the other jobs.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?  
Getting to use my creative talents and learning new things.
What is your favorite room in your home? (and please tell us why) 
My bedroom. It's calm, usually quiet and I love to sleep. (Plus it's where all my shows are DVR'd waiting for me to watch them.)
Please share a favorite recipe you’ve cooked or DIY project you’ve done.
My kids and I made several of these ipod cases for Christmas gifts last year. We really enjoyed doing it.
When you are unmotivated, what keeps you going?

Usually I take a walk outside with my camera. Getting outside almost always clears my head and helps me to focus.

What sage advice would you give a young woman today who would like to marry?

Choose a man who is kind to you, who you are compatible with in beliefs, and someone your mom and daddy approves of.


What were you doing thirty minutes before you answered these interview questions?

Thinking about what to cook for supper. It's one of my most challenging times each day. (I decided on chicken, in case you were wondering.)

What’s your favorite Starbucks drink?

I don't drink coffee so I've never had a Starbucks drink. I'm a Coke fan.


© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Monday, October 24, 2011

Introducing... Lori @ Nourishment for Ladies


One of the neat things about the internet is that it seems to have shrunk the world. I've enjoyed getting to know women from around the country through their blogs, and I'll like to introduce a few of them to you over the next few weeks. I've only met one of these ladies in person, but these are all women who have inspired me in one way or another. I hope you'll enjoy getting to know them. Be sure to stop by their blogs, too!


Lori Rhodes is a woman of many seasons… she’s the mother of five girls (the oldest is soon to be married) with another on the way. She’s been married to her favorite pastor, Ray, for 24 years. On her blog, Nourishmentfor Ladies, Lori shares special family moments, funny stories, and encouraging words. I'm thankful that I have met Lori personally and have experienced her gracious hospitality. (Note: Ray also has a blog, Nourished in the Word, and online bookstore, Books that Nourish.)



Please share your job description in 25 words or less.   
My job description includes, but is not limited to being Ray's wife; mother to Rachel, Hannah, Sarah, Mary, Lydia and baby to be born in November; pastor's wife to Grace Community Church; daughter to Ray's and my parents; sister to all of our siblings; ... My life is not my own, but I'm glad about that.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
One of the most challenging parts of my job is having to choose between my children. There are often times when one will have an event at the same time as another, or one will want to talk when another needs me. It's hard to choose between one child's music class and another's basketball game.
Being pregnant at forty-four, controlling hormones is also a huge challenge for me.


What is the most rewarding part of your job?  
Having all of my family around the same table or in the same room, talking, laughing, reading or having Bible time together are incredibly rewarding times. I also love to see the girls reading on their own, playing dolls, or playing together. A wonderful sound to me is to hear giggles and whispers from another room knowing that my family members are loving each other.
What is your favorite room in your home? (and please tell us why) 
When I began to think of my favorite room in my home, my bedroom was what came to mind first. When it's clean, it is calm and peaceful and where I can usually be alone with Ray. But I also love our living room. It's big, holds a lot of people and is usually where there is the most laughter.
One of the goals in my home of girls was to have books and baby dolls readily available in every room. As the girls get older, that doesn't always work out, I think it helps to foster a love for reading and babies.

Please share a favorite recipe you’ve cooked or DIY project you’ve done (you can briefly describe, then link back to your blog/website – and I’d love a picture if you have one).
One of my favorite projects was our Scripture canvases! Our whole family painted canvases and put our weekly Scripture memory verses on them then hung them on the wall. I am still trying to figure out how to make them stay on the wall and hang straight, but I love the idea. Here is a link to the post. Because it's on my stairs I couldn't get a great picture of it. 


When you are unmotivated, what keeps you going?

Accountability is often what keeps me motivated to do what's right. If my girls are around, I really don't want to set a bad example for them.

Also, knowing Scripture is profitable for my life, I try to stay close to that. Some days I have to quote it over and over to make myself think correctly. And to be honest, in my own sinful heart, there have been times when I have known I needed to be doing something more productive, I've pushed aside thoughts of Scripture to satisfy my sin.

What sage advice would you give a young woman today who would like to marry?

My own "sage" advice for young women about to get married would be to love God more than you love your husband! He will not let you down. He is faithful, trustworthy, and your best comforter.

What were you doing thirty minutes before you answered these interview questions?

While I'm answering these questions, I'm also cooking a special meal for Ray's 50th birthday. I started making this meal when first got married and it has remained one of our special occasion meals. The only problem is I lost the recipe at Father's Day and I am going on memory tonight.

What’s your favorite Starbucks drink?

I don't think I could ever get too much coffee, I love it! At Starbucks I would generally choose a plain latte or add a shot vanilla to it. In the Fall, hands down- Pumpkin spice latte. But I also enjoy the peppermint mocha latte in the winter. Being pregnant, I haven't drank a lot of coffee in the past few months so I'm looking forward to that soon.

 {Note: I shared one of Lori's favorite fall recipes here.}

© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Introducing... Becky @ Organizing Made Fun

One of the neat things about the internet is that it seems to have shrunk the world. I've enjoyed getting to know women from around the country through their blogs, and I'll like to introduce a few of them to you over the next few weeks. I've only met one of these ladies in person, but these are all women who have inspired me in one way or another. I hope you'll enjoy getting to know them. Be sure to stop by their blogs, too!

Becky lives in Southern California and loves to organize and decorate (and often combines the two), as well as gardening and playing the piano. She describes herself as “a wife, Mommy, and child of God.” On her blog, Organizing Made Fun, Becky shares some of her favorite organizing secrets, ways to save money, and projects she does around the house (in a modern twist on the Proverbs 31 woman).



Please share your job description in 25 words or less.   
I am a stay at home mom, piano teacher, and part-time blogger!
What is the most challenging part of your job?
Keeping my focus, I get distracted easily! I am a big advocate of schedules and in order to have time to do everything, I MUST have a detailed schedule. As a blogger, I can spend 3-4 hours on one post, sometimes more time –  taking photos, editing photos, writing out content, editing content, etc. so I have little bits of time here and there carved out to work on blog stuff. As a piano teacher, I have to have had to make “business” hours and stick to only those – if someone can’t work with the days/hours I teach, I’m not the piano teacher for them! As a mom, it’s important to me to make sure when my kids are home from school, that I’m completely focused on them. So, I make sure that blogging and piano teaching don’t divert from that.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?  
As a SAHM, my children! They are amazing! As a piano teacher, I love my students and they really are learning something and enjoying it! I hope to encourage them, be patient and kind, but also firm if there is something better that they can do. As a blogger, it is my goal to motivate and inspire other Moms/Ladies to get their homes and families organized and scheduled to free up their time and tie them down!
What is your favorite room in your home? (and please tell us why) 
Our family room. It’s blue and calm and delightful. We all hang out in there. It’s beach-y feeling and just a warm place with all our family photos. We have the kids' computer, the game table, and our TV in there. So we all are in there most of the time.

Please share a favorite recipe you’ve cooked or DIY project you’ve done (you can briefly describe, then link back to your blog/website – and I’d love a picture if you have one).
My recent project for my daughter’s room was fun! It was a set of nightstands for beside her bed.

When you are unmotivated, what keeps you going?

Honestly, I have to stop and do something that I enjoy for a few moments. There are days I schedule in “projects” and I would rather not do anything all day! So, I have to get myself motivated by starting small.

What sage advice would you give a young woman today who would like to marry?

Oh, my! Be teachable. I see so many young Moms and young ladies who feel they know it all. I was that way. Be willing to let old women share their lives with you – disciple you and encourage you to holiness and godliness. Learn to serve. You will be doing a lot of that once you married, but you need to do so for the glory of God. Not for what you get!

What were you doing thirty minutes before you answered these interview questions?

Working on my blog updating stuff!


What’s your favorite Starbucks drink?

I hate to disappoint, but I don’t drink coffee or ever go to Starbucks!


© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Great meals in less time -- how's that sound?

 I enjoy cooking dinner for my family (and I sure enjoy eating), but I find myself cooking the same meals month after month. And even as a stay-at-home mom, our family schedule sometimes leaves me with little time to spend in the kitchen.

A couple of years ago I found great resource: Eat at Home: Everyday Food for Busy People. On her blog, Tiffany shares great tips and recipes that allow her to save money by quickly cooking at home rather than ordering takeout when life gets busy. And now, Tiffany has a new e-book: Feast in 15: Speed Cooking for Weeknight Dinners. Packed with loads of recipes, as well as tips, tricks, menus and grocery lists, it's an great value at just $4.99.



Disclosure: I am a Feast in 15 affiliate and will receive a commission for those who purchase through the link on my site.




© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Secret weapon: cheesecloth!


Our friends over at Plate & Pattern have done it again. Who knew cheesecloth could be so spooky? (Hop over and check out their post and the rest of this will make more sense.)

What I love most about this post is the way it really got me thinking... tinted cheesecloth could be used so many ways. Think about what it would add to the table at a wedding reception, bridal shower, birthday party, baby shower, just about any event! Of course, your theme might not be spooky, but the cheesecloth could easily be tinted to so many different shades -- and probably with something you already have on hand. I'm thinking coffee, tea (so many shades there), fruit juice, even food coloring (we all know these things are pretty doggone colorfast because we've had to treat clothing stains, right?).

I'm thinking about my winter decor, as well. I love the idea of snow, but I'm not crazy about the mess of the stuff (real or faux). But a fluffy swash of white cheescloth across that mantle or console could give the illusion of snow without all the fuss. What about cheesecloth inside of a hurricane with twinkle lights? My, possibilities are endless!

You're creative -- what ideas can you add?

The Lyric Candelabra is available in my Willow House online store.

© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Gothic Halloween -- when Halloween is too cute for you!

 Plate and Pattern provides a great step-by-step, showing you how to get this look. This is a great example of using your Willow House decor throughout every season!


© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Announcing the Willow House Jewelry by Sara Blaine Catalog -- online!

If you're as excited as I am about the introduction of Willow House Jewelry by Sara Blaine, you've probably been dying to see the new catalog! I've been seeing (and giving) sneak peaks along the way, but that never seems to be enough. Now, you can see the whole glorious line, and it's as easy as visiting my Willow House website
You can browse the catalog with "page view"...



or change to "shop this page" to see the products in more detail...



or even create a wishlist to email to that special someone (or yourself)! 



If you'd like to make a purchase, simply email your wishlist to me and I can process your order for you. 



Better yet, host a party to get your own jewelry shopping spree! (See page 2 of the catalog for details on our very generous host rewards.)

Also, the Style for Home catalog is now interactive as well! You can browse, create a wishlist, and even convert that wishlist to a shopping cart to complete your purchase (the jewelry catalog will offer this feature at a later date, don't worry!).

Enjoy your browsing -- and I'd love to hear what your favorite new Jewelry by Sara Blaine pieces are, so please leave a comment or send me your wishlist! 

(Oh, I can't stop without mentioning our first ever Multi-Division Kit offer this month, October 2011, for only $289! Come join my team during our hottest selling season -- contact me for details!)
 

© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Yearn for the Urn


Just had to post this picture of Melanie's fall styling of the Willow House Framework Urn. I love the way this piece is so versatile and easy to style for any season -- mini-pumpkins and gourds in the fall, ornaments of your choice for the holidays, faux fruit or seed balls for spring, large shells for summer -- just use your imagination!

To purchase the Framework Urn or other Willow House products, simply visit my online store or contact me!

© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Saturday, September 24, 2011

Waiting...



Still have a few more weeks until my Willow House Jewelry by Sara Blaine arrives (including this Serenity Pearl Cross Necklace)...


© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Falling for fall... recipes, that is!

We've been feeling fall in the air all week, and each time we venture down the country road that leads us into town, my daughter giggles with delight as she noticed tinges of orange in the trees. When I came out in shorts yesterday, she rebuked me for attempting to drive the fall weather away by wearing summer clothes (in my defense, I did have on a sweater and closed-toe shoes!)

I'm hoping that I'll have opportunity to do a bit of fall treat-making soon... until then, I'll have to settle for drooling over recipes like these...

Pumpkin Cranberry Pecan Bread from My Blessed Life



Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting from The Stir 




Pumpkin Muffins from Nourishment for Ladies (Lori didn't publish a photo of her muffins, so I thought I'd use a photo of a different kind of muffin she has in the oven right now!)




Candy Corn Krispy Treat Pretzel Pops from Love from the Oven




Cinnamon Caramel Apples from Bakingdom




Are you sufficiently inspired to make some fall treats? Let me know which of these you plan to try -- I'm betting you'll get to bake before I do! And I would love it if you would share some pictures over on my Willow House Facebook page, as well. Happy Fall, y'all!

The lead photo is my last year's fall centerpiece using one of my very favorite and most versatile Willow House products, the French Wire Tiered Stand. This stand can be completely disassembled for easy storage and can be configured for many different uses! See the French Wire Tiered Stand and other beautiful, versatile products at my Willow House store. And be sure to check out my September Sale -- lots of pretty products to help you organize!





Tuesday, September 6, 2011

What's the big deal about designer jewelry?

Oh, I'm so glad you asked! That was certainly one of the questions rolling around in my mind as I began to hear about Willow House Jewelry by Sara Blaine. Thankfully, Bill Shaw was proactive by answering the question before it even left my lips... or fingertips. And once I saw the jewelry, the distinction became abundantly clear! Here's is Bill's explanation... I hope it is as helpful to you as it was to me:

Designer jewelry is a term used to define jewelry that is more exclusive, unique and original than jewelry that is mass-manufactured and commonly available. With Willow House jewelry there is greater care and expertise taken in the technical execution of the jewelry creation process, resulting in a higher quality piece of jewelry. Jewelers consider designer jewelry as more individualistic, as it is produced on a limited scale, often by hand. Because no two genuine pearls, hand-cut stones or carvings are exactly the same, each piece of Sara Blaine jewelry is unique.

Designer jewelry also represents a line attributed to one particular person, like Sara Blaine, who is the exclusive creator of our designs. To be considered designer jewelry, the collection must embody a signature style. Designer jewelry is by nature recognizable by both its method of creation and its verifiable design pedigree.

Designer jewelry is found in upscale boutiques, traditional retail jewelry stores, and now for the first time in direct sales — from Willow House. By definition, Willow House offers the only designer jewelry in the direct selling industry.

Art jewelry represents a broad spectrum of jewelry design. Art jewelry may be produced from cloth, paper, beads, clay, precious and non-precious metals, wire of varying types or any material that may be suitable for wearable bodily adornment. The jewelry artist uses the materials to make the art jewelry in a unique manner. Art jewelry is often signed by some method, whether it is initials, or a stamp. Art jewelry is produced by the artist who created the design and often only one piece is ever made.

Art jewelry is typically sold directly to the consumer by the artist and is impractical for traditional retail or direct selling.

Costume jewelry is easily identifiable and defined by the use of both inexpensive materials and mass-production techniques. Costume jewelry uses synthetic stones, glass, plastic, silver and gold tones. Most are manufactured with automated stamping and casting techniques rather than expensive skilled artisan hand-carving and cutting. While all jewelry has to be designed by someone, it is either the inferior quality of the materials, the mass-manufacturing techniques — or both — that cause it to be considered “costume” jewelry and not “designer,” despite sophisticated packaging and sometimes artificially high price points. Most silver jewelry that is mass-produced is considered costume even though it is made of higher quality material than other costume jewelry. Each piece of our silver jewelry is carved and crafted by the hands of the finest skilled silversmiths.

Costume jewelry is typically sold in department stores, mass-market discount retailers and through direct selling companies.



I'm anxiously awaiting my sample kit -- until then, you can preview our beautiful, exclusive collection through my Willow House website!

(Note: if you'd like to join my team of design consultants to own your own business selling Willow House Style for Home or Jewelry by Sara Blaine or both, contact me for details!)



© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

Friday, August 26, 2011

Ode to Wire Baskets

Hats off to Domestically Speaking today for sharing her love of wire baskets today along with lovely pictures. I'm partial to wire baskets, as well. I mean, what's not to love? I love their timeless design and fun functionality. And I'm amazed by their ability to blend with any style, from modern to classic to cottage!

Since its inception last August, Willow House has introduced several wonderful wire baskets. You all know how much I love my French Wire Tiered Stand (a vital component of my Barista Bar). Her baby sister, the French Wire Carousel Caddy, is a little lovely with oodles of potential! And the French Wire Convertible Basket was so popular that we just couldn't keep enough in stock (welcome back, baby)! I really, really like them all.

But in July, I met a new friend. Three friends, actually -- the Wireweave Basket Trio. I liked them when I saw them simple and plain. Then I visited the Design Showcase at our annual Willow House Convention... and I loved them. Our designers turned them every which way but loose!

This trio works hard in any room, such as the office, where our designers organized books and papers (and notice that French Wire Carousel Caddy working hard in the background). I love how they lined the large basket with an old feedsack to add a pop of color and texture. Simple, but effective.



Next, our crew transformed the trio into an amazing tower centerpiece. By inserting the glass cylinders from our Galveston Footed Hurricanes into each of the Wireweave Baskets, they become vases for grocery store gerberas. Willow House designer-extraordinaire Susan added grass from her own yard into the top tier for a pop of green. Who knew such a big statement could be made so easily? (And, by the way, those little yellow flowers are known as "billy balls"... just one of many things I learned at Convention, thanks to Melanie Grant.)


But I was in awe when I saw the craft room. (Man, could I feel creative in this room!)


(I don't know if I'd actually be creative, but I could sure feel creative!)


(Note the French Wire Convertible Baskets on the walls -- and how 'bout that new Athena Crackle Vase turned lamp!)



There was a lot to be in awe of, but I think what really floored me was the use of the baskets as hanging lamps (thanks to fellow consultant Linda Burt for the great photos -- wouldn't you know that I forgot my camera). Those Willow House designers can turn anything into a lamp!


What about you? Are you loving the new wire basket trend, too? How would you use the Wireweave Basket Trio in your home?


If you're loving the Wireweave Basket Trio or any of the other products featured here and would like to see details or learn how to purchase, visit my Willow House website!





© Suzanne Jackson 2011.
{I'd love for you to share this post with friends, but please share the full link. Common courtesy dictates that you do not copy the post into your own blog without proper attribution. Thanks!}

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