Besides simply wanting to accessorize, there are many other good reasons to buy handcrafted fine jewelry. Consider that your piece will always be unique. You’ll also have a relationship with the designer or creator. Finally, you’ll support small business, and you’ll look great while you’re at it.
Unique Accessories
It’s true that you can probably find inexpensive jewelry online or at department stores. But it is also true that there will be hundreds of others with the exact same piece that you bought, whether earrings or necklaces. There is something to be said about having something that nobody else has. In fact, it can be treasured and passed on from generation to generation. When somebody compliments your lovely necklace, brooch, or clutch, you can say that it is one of a kind. They may be disappointed that they can’t purchase the item anywhere, but they will envy that unique accessory that you have come to own. If having something valuable and unique is important to you, this is just one benefit of owning handmade jewelry.
Personalized Interactions
Another benefit to purchasing handmade jewelry is that you will more than likely meet the designer. Whether they are selling from a tent at a local fair or online, your interactions are often very personal, making exchanges with the actual designer. They may be able to modify a certain piece of jewelry for you. You don’t have to worry about having your name on an email list or your information getting sold, because these are just normal people trying to share their talents with you. Many of them also have generous return policies as well, since their main goal is customer satisfaction. You could even get deals and discounts for hosting parties or spreading the word.
Support Small Business
The final reason to consider handmade jewelry is that you are supporting small businesses. For big department stores, your purchase may not make a huge difference. But for somebody who is supporting a family or trying to make extra money for bills, your purchase could make a huge difference. Stimulating the economy is a worthy action. All of these are just a few reasons to consider buying handcrafted fine jewelry.
The busy life of a mom, teacher, entrepreneur, wife, sister, and daughter trying to save money and stay sane. This blog travels through my journey of learning more everyday academically, socially, and spiritually.
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Easy Modifications: Picture Collage Maker Online
It used to be that you would actually have to have talent to take a decent photograph. Getting collages made was an expensive or time-consuming ordeal. Editing photos for flaws took expertise. There are lots of tools available to you now, though, that make all of these things easier. Read on for more information on how to edit your pictures, including using a picture collage maker online.
Use Filters
There are so many applications and websites now that can add a certain effect to your picture. This makes a huge difference. It adds certain tones to a photo that alter the colors in a certain way. Do an Internet search for the most popular photo applications, or just download one to your smart phone to see what filters are available. Popular filters include black and white or sepia tones. Black and white obviously adds more contrast and can make a mood more dramatic. Sepia can smooth out lines and make skin appear flawless. Other filters add effects that make your picture look like an old, discolored Polaroid. Play around with different filters to see how it affects your photographs.
Add Text and Edit
Another thing you can do easily is modify your photo with text. It is common to add an inspirational quote on top of a beautiful background picture that you took. Free applications make this easier and allow you to choose different fonts and colors. Another thing you can do on your computer is use the basic photo editor or viewer that comes with your computer’s operating system. This often enables you to remove red eye and crop pictures easily.
Collage It
Once you have cropped and edited your picture using free applications, you can make the presentation more exciting by using a picture collage maker online or on your phone. You can choose to have various amounts of photos in the collage, commonly anywhere from one to nine (or more). These are fun because you can use different photos from one occasion to make one collage instead of posting separate pictures to your social networking websites. All of these are just a few ideas to change the presentation and quality of your pictures.
Use Filters
Add Text and Edit
Collage It
Once you have cropped and edited your picture using free applications, you can make the presentation more exciting by using a picture collage maker online or on your phone. You can choose to have various amounts of photos in the collage, commonly anywhere from one to nine (or more). These are fun because you can use different photos from one occasion to make one collage instead of posting separate pictures to your social networking websites. All of these are just a few ideas to change the presentation and quality of your pictures.
Friday, August 16, 2013
Benefits to Interactive Learning Software
Technology is currently being brought into the classroom to enhance learning. Interactive learning software in particular is increasing in prevalence and popularity through several schools in the US. Students sit at computer modules and learn new and familiar concepts through playing interactive games and doing quizzes. The computer will adapt the teachings to the student’s level and print out results for teachers to evaluate the progress of students. Such software offers numerous benefits that many classrooms can take advantage of.
Individual Learning
Interactive learning programs allow each student to work at their own pace. As mentioned previously, the computer will teach and test students at their own individual levels. So a student who is struggling with a particular concept will be able to find extra instruction through the program, and a student who is advanced won’t be bored with old concepts already mastered. They won’t be bored with questions other students may have about a concept. Instead, that student can advance and increase his or her learning. This allows the teacher to understand the understanding of each individual student and adapt lesson plans to conform to the students’ needs. With this approach to learning, everyone wins.
Disguised Learning
Many students can enjoy interactive learning programs because they are learning materials designed as video games. Many programs use cartoon characters and fun animations to drive a point across to students who learn visually. The program may bring in music and songs to teach a concept, which is really beneficial to auditory learners. A student may be so immersed in a program since it resembles the video games he or she plays at home. When a student does well, they are often praised with a gold star or a cartoon character congratulating them.
Beating Limitations
Traditional classroom has its perks, yet it also has its limitations. Some concepts simply cannot be taught to their fullest extent in this setup. For instance, students learning about astronomy may not see the full scope of the night sky through a textbook. A computer on the other hand can allow a student to roam through the sky and examine each constellation and learn about it. Last, interactive learning software also gives instruction in subjects a teacher may not be familiar with.
Individual Learning
Interactive learning programs allow each student to work at their own pace. As mentioned previously, the computer will teach and test students at their own individual levels. So a student who is struggling with a particular concept will be able to find extra instruction through the program, and a student who is advanced won’t be bored with old concepts already mastered. They won’t be bored with questions other students may have about a concept. Instead, that student can advance and increase his or her learning. This allows the teacher to understand the understanding of each individual student and adapt lesson plans to conform to the students’ needs. With this approach to learning, everyone wins.
Disguised Learning
Many students can enjoy interactive learning programs because they are learning materials designed as video games. Many programs use cartoon characters and fun animations to drive a point across to students who learn visually. The program may bring in music and songs to teach a concept, which is really beneficial to auditory learners. A student may be so immersed in a program since it resembles the video games he or she plays at home. When a student does well, they are often praised with a gold star or a cartoon character congratulating them.
Beating Limitations
Traditional classroom has its perks, yet it also has its limitations. Some concepts simply cannot be taught to their fullest extent in this setup. For instance, students learning about astronomy may not see the full scope of the night sky through a textbook. A computer on the other hand can allow a student to roam through the sky and examine each constellation and learn about it. Last, interactive learning software also gives instruction in subjects a teacher may not be familiar with.
Stylish Skirts and Sweaters for Women of All Sizes
Dressing stylishly is not just about looking at what the latest fashions are and buying all new items to fit what is in season. In fact, dressing stylishly is more about knowing what kinds of classic styles and fits will best flatter your figure. Some classic styles of skirts and sweaters for women never go out of style if you know how to get the perfect fit. Accessories can always update a well-fitting skirt or top, but they can’t hide an ill-fitting clothing item. Know what styles will work best for your shape and size.
Skirts
Skirts are great because they have more versatility than pants do. There are so many different kinds of skirts, and they can often be more flattering than pants. If you are short, look for skirts that are mid-length. Avoid calf length skirts and very short skirts. A-line skirts are often flattering, but if the angle of the A is too wide, it can make you look squat. If you have a thick waist, avoid skirts that have a lot of detail or embellishments at the waist. Hem embellishments draw the eye away from the waist. Bubble skirts that bulge at the hem are also flattering. Tulip shaped skirts are great for women with curves. This type of skirt accentuates as well as flatters curves.
Sweaters
In the fall and winter, sweaters become an absolute essential. You don’t want to spend all fall and winter totally obscured by a thick, shapeless sweater however. Luckily, there are many sweaters for women that are not lumpy, shapeless things. For a light, slim look, choose a turtleneck in a thinner material like cotton or a cotton-spandex blend. This top can be warm, but still show off all your curves. If you are pear-shaped, a cowl-neck sweater does wonders to balance your upper body. The excess folded material that makes a cowl-neck adds bulk up top to balance your wide hips. It can also be very slimming to your neck. Cardigans are another great way to add layers and warmth to an outfit. Go casual with a loose-fitting boyfriend cardigan or dress it up with a fitted cardigan with embroidery or other embellishments.
Skirts
Skirts are great because they have more versatility than pants do. There are so many different kinds of skirts, and they can often be more flattering than pants. If you are short, look for skirts that are mid-length. Avoid calf length skirts and very short skirts. A-line skirts are often flattering, but if the angle of the A is too wide, it can make you look squat. If you have a thick waist, avoid skirts that have a lot of detail or embellishments at the waist. Hem embellishments draw the eye away from the waist. Bubble skirts that bulge at the hem are also flattering. Tulip shaped skirts are great for women with curves. This type of skirt accentuates as well as flatters curves.
Sweaters
In the fall and winter, sweaters become an absolute essential. You don’t want to spend all fall and winter totally obscured by a thick, shapeless sweater however. Luckily, there are many sweaters for women that are not lumpy, shapeless things. For a light, slim look, choose a turtleneck in a thinner material like cotton or a cotton-spandex blend. This top can be warm, but still show off all your curves. If you are pear-shaped, a cowl-neck sweater does wonders to balance your upper body. The excess folded material that makes a cowl-neck adds bulk up top to balance your wide hips. It can also be very slimming to your neck. Cardigans are another great way to add layers and warmth to an outfit. Go casual with a loose-fitting boyfriend cardigan or dress it up with a fitted cardigan with embroidery or other embellishments.
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
World Of Magic And Dolphin Beach Vacation
Wednesday – up at 7 am and left Ohio stopped for lunch at Speedway in Lexington, KY. (got gas)
Drove through KY and TN. Stopped at Georgia Welcome Center, got gas in Cartersville and took side trip to see The Walking Dead filming in Senoia, GA and missed Daryl by 45 mins. ☹ But grabbed pics of a season four set.
Dinner at 10 pm was at Waffle House in Griffin, GA when the Dwarf House Chick fil A didn't work out, and then 2 more hours drive to Perry for our first night stay at the Hampton Inn.
Up at 8:30 am (slept in) on Thursday, grabbed a free hot breakfast and back on the road by 10 am. We stopped at the Florida/Georgia Line at the Florida Welcome Center
for fresh OJ and lunch with the gnats. Grabbed lots of brochures and pics in the Shutterfly cutouts. Another gas stop and arrival in Orlando around 4:30 pm. Kids were at the pool within 30 minutes. We ordered pizza from Singing Sams and toured the resort where they had a playground, large chess, played some Ping-Pong (kinda), and watched moron torment this poor alligator who mocked him by coming out from under the bridge AFTER he left. Haha!
Resort was showing “Warm Bodies” in the 50-seat movie theatre
and Kayleigh, Megan & Tayler caught a movie while the adults grabbed drinks by the pool while Karie and Sam practiced jumping in the pool.
Let’s not forget I’m taking summer classes so Friday morning I got up and did “homework” on the computer on the outside patio then took the kiddos to the pool around noon – 1:30 pm. Back to the room for lunch and getting cleaned up. We took a trip to Walmart for some drinks and ice and “small kids” went back to the pool.
Chris and Sam participated in a “free throw” competition, and Karie took a few shots too.
Then to Downtown Disney for dinner and shopping.
Saturday was a full day of soggy Disney fun.
Up early on Sunday to get some souvenirs and get a Denny’s Brunch. Some more gas before Tampa and check in at our hotel near the beach. A drive across the causeway to Clearwater Beach and some fun in the sun collecting shells, tasting salt water (on accident) and finding some sea creatures after we step on their shells. Showering off before another late Father’s Day dinner at Cody’s Roadhouse (Texas’ cousin).
Monday morning started late and at Walmart for beach stuff. 1 bag of ice, 2 beach chairs, 3 towels later we are headed to Clearwater Marine Aquarium for a look at Winter the dolphin and a ferry ride to Winter’s Dolphin Adventure where we saw wild dolphins and experienced a hurricane experience. We hopped on the trolley and rode over to the Sand Key beach, a clearer water experience with many more shells than at Clearwater. We spent about 3 hours at the beach before
getting some seafood at Frenchy’s South Beach and visiting another gift shop.
Tuesday we drove all day including a visit to “Woodbury”
and a quick glance at the 1996 Olympic torch and a stay in Cartersville. Wednesday in Cartersville included another free breakfast a dip in the pool for the kiddos and another day of driving home. Including a stop at McDonald’s and poor service, I mean like since when does it take 30 minutes to get a quarter-pounder? or fries. Oh yeah when the girl keeps handing them out the drive thru and not giving you your money back. a traffic backup due to a broken down BMW slowed us down in KY but 3 hours later, it was nothing that Purple Monkey Pizza couldn't satisfy.
How to Find Cheap Video Games
Most gamers like having a bountiful collection of video games in their store. After beating a game a few times or more, they prefer to move on to a new challenge. When money is a barrier, gamers usually borrow or rent video games. However, it’s a huge disadvantage when you only get to have the game for a limited amount of time. This means rushing through the levels and probably only playing the video game once at most. It’s much more preferable to own these games. A great solution to this dilemma is investing in cheap PSP games so you can own these games without breaking the bank.
Stores
You may feel inclined to steer away from major video stores so you don’t go on a spending spree. However, this may not be so big of a temptation if you see the deals you can get at certain stores. A typical video game store will have re-sell racks so you can buy used games at discounted rates. This sort of store may also have an exchange program, allowing you to give up your old unwanted games for new ones. Another option is to visit a rental store that does movies and video games. Older games are no longer available for rent after a while and are on sale at cut prices. Last, don’t forget to hit the secondhand stores. You never know what steals you’ll find on the shelves. These games are in pretty okay condition since the thrift store will check their quality before selling them.
Garage Sales and Flea Markets
Attend garage sales and flea markets to try your luck at getting new games. Go early in the morning on weekends and drive around neighborhoods to find what you’re seeking. Many kids are getting rid of their games and are willing to pass them off to someone else. This is a great option because garage sales are typically very cheap, and you can barter to lower prices. You can also visit flea markets, which are similar to garage sales. Again, go early and be prepared to negotiate on prices to purchase cheap PSP games.
Stores
You may feel inclined to steer away from major video stores so you don’t go on a spending spree. However, this may not be so big of a temptation if you see the deals you can get at certain stores. A typical video game store will have re-sell racks so you can buy used games at discounted rates. This sort of store may also have an exchange program, allowing you to give up your old unwanted games for new ones. Another option is to visit a rental store that does movies and video games. Older games are no longer available for rent after a while and are on sale at cut prices. Last, don’t forget to hit the secondhand stores. You never know what steals you’ll find on the shelves. These games are in pretty okay condition since the thrift store will check their quality before selling them.
Garage Sales and Flea Markets
Attend garage sales and flea markets to try your luck at getting new games. Go early in the morning on weekends and drive around neighborhoods to find what you’re seeking. Many kids are getting rid of their games and are willing to pass them off to someone else. This is a great option because garage sales are typically very cheap, and you can barter to lower prices. You can also visit flea markets, which are similar to garage sales. Again, go early and be prepared to negotiate on prices to purchase cheap PSP games.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Photo Book
Click here to view this photo book larger
Shutterfly offers exclusive layouts and designs so you can make your book just the way you want.
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