Addicted to Etsy (and Promoting a Giveaway)

So, in the spirit of trying to find not only the perfect gift at Christmastime for my beautiful and gracious daughter, Olivia, but for her eleventh birthday to directly follow, I stumbled into the slice of handcrafted heaven called Etsy.  Oh yes, I'm putting the link right there so you can join me.  C'mon, click it.

I am thoroughly impressed and not a little inspired to pull out my own and too long neglected sewing and neo-crafting supplies, put my two years of design to work literally and liberally, and make a few pennies of my own.  These ladies are that fantastic, no doubt about it.  Like I said, there's the link.  Go and take a look-see, if you cannot bring yourself to take my opinion for it.  Really: don't take my opinion for it.

Not only do I admire these ladies, but I wholeheartedly want to support them in any way I can.  Not only are they fine artisans, but they are also advertising and public relations executives, businesswomen and customer service representatives all rolled into one.  Sheesh! many of these gals have small children and infants.  They work during nap times and around bouts of fussiness, all while fully committed to the complete nurturing of their children.  Hey! that's why it's a home business, right?  Yes, I admire them.

So, today I am supporting two handcrafted companies with one blog: The Vintage Pearl and Ivy Lane.  The Vintage Pearl is a fantastic and prospering custom jewelry shop at Etsy whose creations are not only practical but beautiful, and Ivy Lane is a group of talented designers who sell their handmade children's clothing on ebay.  This week The Vintage Pearl is giving away this custom necklace to one providentially blessed girl.  Could it be you?  Go to Ivy Lane's blog and enter!  Yes, now.  Go now--n-o-w!

((although I hope it's me))