tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79978588896743823172024-02-18T22:50:09.032-08:00Care More Creations~ Wire Wrapped Gemstone Jewelry~An Alaskan Artisan's Adventures, Ambitions, Anecdotes And Accolades~Carolyn Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036067128485573164noreply@blogger.comBlogger8125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7997858889674382317.post-69263924519703814732012-06-29T10:59:00.002-07:002012-06-29T11:17:03.172-07:00It's a "Wrap"The GBK 2012 MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge held on June 1-2, 2012 was a huge success! Not only was the preparation and sheer anticipation of the event so exciting, but the event itself was far more than I could have dreamed. Our lovely founder of <a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a>, Valerie Guerrero, along with her sidekick Erica, kept us informed up-to-the-minute with which celebrities and press members were stopping by The Artisan Group display table. I kept my Twitterdeck page live, anxiously anticipating who the next celebrity they would tweet us as they stopped by. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLEj9Qs9sKckSqJNrc4m4uvGVeiBXmBHyWn8WXrOCqhbxC32XPhdSgD3QTpTrnv1MsXaVQgGz6mbavRuSLdR055Iv86gvH-q2RUtk_vVmE7LM9XliPq-NK05KrpoggbwZxelV1xqgek1tm/s1600/gI_103786_TheArtisanGroup_MTVDisplay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLEj9Qs9sKckSqJNrc4m4uvGVeiBXmBHyWn8WXrOCqhbxC32XPhdSgD3QTpTrnv1MsXaVQgGz6mbavRuSLdR055Iv86gvH-q2RUtk_vVmE7LM9XliPq-NK05KrpoggbwZxelV1xqgek1tm/s1600/gI_103786_TheArtisanGroup_MTVDisplay.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Artisan Group Display Table</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Artisan Group displayed the products of 28 companies at the gift
lounge, including Care More Creations, and handed out exclusive swag bags to celebrities and press
valued at nearly $1,500.00. Celebrities attending the event included nominee Rob Riggle, Lauren
Velez, Rico Rodriguez, Taylor Armstrong, Janina Gavankar, Kirby Bliss
Blanton, Autumn Reeser and Jennifer Love Hewitt.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixri3zIYKQgd0klGDUOKAHkFgd40kq6Tq2kX2hxisgBHuwRMIOrJw-oihB-qE-uNUWCQC3LCR6VKDHlghyWalVM_dl50iiIyGrQq8pWYUhDX1KKBytCQXhFvxL8Nl3v5i4QgLV0yjU5WQc/s1600/blog+citrine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixri3zIYKQgd0klGDUOKAHkFgd40kq6Tq2kX2hxisgBHuwRMIOrJw-oihB-qE-uNUWCQC3LCR6VKDHlghyWalVM_dl50iiIyGrQq8pWYUhDX1KKBytCQXhFvxL8Nl3v5i4QgLV0yjU5WQc/s200/blog+citrine.jpg" title="" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natural Citrine Wire Wrapped Pendant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
You can imagine how honored I was when these lovely celebrities chose my Natural Citrine Nugget Wire Wrapped Pendant to model out of the displays on our exhibit table. </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsEvK2TETSdqsHrEw3e1WCX-qknwYYU1Wojm2XDeaRGb9CTQFXI8yQeKahUALqHQbKXIDqmIRl7f8qJLdyGN7_N63SxwZhq3FsVX8eosR_fCVTu7OhN_PMGIn3Df62BSnX_A-hhdslWAkQ/s1600/Carolyn_Camille+Luddington.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsEvK2TETSdqsHrEw3e1WCX-qknwYYU1Wojm2XDeaRGb9CTQFXI8yQeKahUALqHQbKXIDqmIRl7f8qJLdyGN7_N63SxwZhq3FsVX8eosR_fCVTu7OhN_PMGIn3Df62BSnX_A-hhdslWAkQ/s400/Carolyn_Camille+Luddington.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The beautiful Camille Luddington is shown here wearing my Citrine Wire Wrapped Pendant.
This 29 year old English actress is probably best known for her role as
Princess Kate in the 2011 film William and Kate. She has also been
cast in Showtime’s Californication and HBO’s vampire drama True Blood.<br />
Read this exclusive<a href="http://socialitelife.com/exclusive-true-blood-star-camilla-luddington-looks-back-on-playing-kate-middleton-06-2012?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter" target="_blank"> interview</a> of her looking back on playing Kate Middleton (and where she is shown wearing this pendant!)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEW4nrSR_Sd9HAPoUAh9IVyQnr9ITf47l204JJHg7x7Pg-oUOyjhTDsF4pF2pXhH5wmZCEGf8P9YpDRj9yvmmjqxjx60VhOR0JNAdrfkRKRBUeGwIR_LOmyxLJds5cyouGDSbpUvXFqiTG/s1600/Carolyn_Maiara+Walsh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEW4nrSR_Sd9HAPoUAh9IVyQnr9ITf47l204JJHg7x7Pg-oUOyjhTDsF4pF2pXhH5wmZCEGf8P9YpDRj9yvmmjqxjx60VhOR0JNAdrfkRKRBUeGwIR_LOmyxLJds5cyouGDSbpUvXFqiTG/s400/Carolyn_Maiara+Walsh.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Maiara Walsh is shown here modeling my Citrine crystal Wire Wrapped Pendant. She is the lovely
24 year-old actress best known for her roles as Ana in "Desperate
Housewives", Sarah i<span class="text_exposed_show">n "The Vampire
Diaries", Mandi in "Mean Girls 2", and is currently playing Simone in
the hit TV show "Switched at Birth". Maiara is an avid philanthropist,
and spends much of her time volunteering<br /> and coordinating community projects.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVFf6pD34Ubk1W1nXEpTN5K6FSm2oZ-M9dgDyrbPQ0awEDNev8TjOdpOVF9-M1kxz1eSPYVo93ZICNXbskQLhGgk6sV1qI8IMOIaQV3cx_CwadlPEu9IE_8yty1yocICnztBtM_KjZtW1e/s1600/Carolyn_Judi+Shekoni.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVFf6pD34Ubk1W1nXEpTN5K6FSm2oZ-M9dgDyrbPQ0awEDNev8TjOdpOVF9-M1kxz1eSPYVo93ZICNXbskQLhGgk6sV1qI8IMOIaQV3cx_CwadlPEu9IE_8yty1yocICnztBtM_KjZtW1e/s400/Carolyn_Judi+Shekoni.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
The talented Judi Shekoni is the next celebrity shown here modeling my
Citrine Crystal Wire Wrapped Pendant at the GBK MTV Movie Awards Gift
Lounge on June 1-2.<br />
This English actress is well known in Britain where her career included roles o<span class="text_exposed_show">n
every major television channel. She is soon to be seen as 'Zafrina',
the leader of the Amazons in Twilight Sagas: Breaking Dawn Part 2.</span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlPxN8vI6O8dv5Tqa0LxhqGXxBEEGUP6BSrWzlNWV7PHFiohKYkSSgcNCyt8ro7Cz3tJZOgrBZK5a55S5GzVOb6nuJ6SNpZyP4xiYBpFCmULOTuKWSFBjGhycspqz7kN1gjL_ANm0b7EgA/s1600/Carolyn_Taylor+Armstrong.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlPxN8vI6O8dv5Tqa0LxhqGXxBEEGUP6BSrWzlNWV7PHFiohKYkSSgcNCyt8ro7Cz3tJZOgrBZK5a55S5GzVOb6nuJ6SNpZyP4xiYBpFCmULOTuKWSFBjGhycspqz7kN1gjL_ANm0b7EgA/s400/Carolyn_Taylor+Armstrong.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
The beautiful Taylor Armstrong is the next celebrity shown here showing
off the wire wrapped Citrine pendant that was on display at the 2012 GBK
MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge on June 1-2. This Oklahoma native moved
to Beverly Hills in 2004 <span class="text_exposed_show">and was made
popular through her role in the reality show The Real Housewives of
Beverly Hills. She is passionate about her business, BeautyTicket.com
where she serves as Chief Creative Director. Also she has been an
advocate for victims of domestic violence since 2004 and volunteers for
the 1736 Family Crisis Center.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Along with these amazing celebrity photos, I also received a few tweets from the following celebrities.<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
<br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZu3Rhdg7WlI9DEzqJJZdXZz_C27rBsMtR10ztpmO-dMOyLl-96gKntn9lAAmVoyDgAQ5tdXRnvPqqz7JIWHzXja-_Qt6Y9yIzavTiZT5ASbwajibWbPgeiEYX8cRVyUl_RvWHivjyt51j/s1600/tweets+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZu3Rhdg7WlI9DEzqJJZdXZz_C27rBsMtR10ztpmO-dMOyLl-96gKntn9lAAmVoyDgAQ5tdXRnvPqqz7JIWHzXja-_Qt6Y9yIzavTiZT5ASbwajibWbPgeiEYX8cRVyUl_RvWHivjyt51j/s400/tweets+collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
To "WRAP" it up, this has been such a wonderful exciting experience. Hopefully this celebrity exposure will take my business to the next level. I want to give a shout out to <a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a> for this amazing opportunity!!<br />
You can visit my shop: <a href="http://www.caremore.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Care More Creations</a> on Etsy.<br />
You can visit my website: <a href="http://www.caremorecreations.com/" target="_blank">Care More Creations</a><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span>Carolyn Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036067128485573164noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7997858889674382317.post-80096495148775123762012-05-23T10:48:00.000-07:002012-05-24T10:10:30.695-07:00Sneak Peak Week ~ The MTV Movie Awards<div style="clear: both; color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">It’s <i>Sneak Peak Week</i> at the <i>MTV Movie Awards</i> and the perfect time to
give my fans a behind the scenes look at my recent gig creating swag for <i>GBK’s Luxury Gift Lounge Honoring the MTV
Movie Awards Nominees and Presenters</i>. </span></div>
<div style="clear: both; color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRnBryFh2DH32v6iB4MsNDDHLQxS1oDeXzPXAtsdIL_uI9n758ux6Km5Kkvc5jwJAhCtIF3zg7zhbIq7nRYX-ZUSbs0ueeqyi0DcCkt3ecAz8gnCUUMTHc32jxWNctUpPrta4Hr3QXMeYq/s1600/blog+packaging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRnBryFh2DH32v6iB4MsNDDHLQxS1oDeXzPXAtsdIL_uI9n758ux6Km5Kkvc5jwJAhCtIF3zg7zhbIq7nRYX-ZUSbs0ueeqyi0DcCkt3ecAz8gnCUUMTHc32jxWNctUpPrta4Hr3QXMeYq/s320/blog+packaging.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter">
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0">
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0">
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1">
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2">
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth">
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight">
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1">
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2">
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth">
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0">
</v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:formulas></v:stroke></v:shapetype></span><span style="font-size: small;">My story is a little
tongue in check, in keeping with the fun and games that is the <i>MTV Movie Awards</i>, but please know I was <i>seriously honored</i> to be able to
participate in the celebrity gifting for this long running event that made its
debut in 1992, and quickly debunked the myth that celebs are too concerned
about appearances to let their hair down. The spoofs, the kisses, the general
mayhem that is the <i>MTV Movie Awards </i>are
unforgettable pop culture moments and managed to loosen up, if only a teeny bit,
almost every awards ceremony out there (lucky for us). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">So, here’s to the <i>MTV Movie Awards</i>, the illustrious <i>Golden Popcorn</i> and what has turned out
to be a really fun personal and business experience. And in case you were
wondering, my vote for “Best Kiss” is going to Channing Tatum and Rachel
McAdam! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>SCENE
1<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">It’s January 2012 and the
depths of winter in Sterling, Alaska. Or wait maybe it was “Drop Dead Gorgeous”
in Belize. Anyway, I am “Desperately Seeking” marketing opportunities.
Suddenly, I’ve “Got Mail.” It’s an opportunity to include my wire wrapped
pendants in the celebrity gift bags at GBK’s luxury gift lounge for the MTV
Movie Awards. Holy “Batman”!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBcus2teNn7ukI-GrDPDqmzgxAn0Oq59t6Sd6oTyAFeA42A-Hspi2yquozA-U-KLJhyphenhyphenBqtVyoPV_PuTG9mUXWjJifp1QB3lF3a75wW65Bq2sZ2QlM5RqwFcD6bIfGytqhhZcfEXuXnSe3/s1600/blog+belize.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBcus2teNn7ukI-GrDPDqmzgxAn0Oq59t6Sd6oTyAFeA42A-Hspi2yquozA-U-KLJhyphenhyphenBqtVyoPV_PuTG9mUXWjJifp1QB3lF3a75wW65Bq2sZ2QlM5RqwFcD6bIfGytqhhZcfEXuXnSe3/s320/blog+belize.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>SCENE
2<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Cut to studio. Suddenly
I am my own “Horrible Boss” and have crazily (“Crazy Like a Fox”) committed to
creating a staggering 100 unique pendants for some of Hollywood’s hippest
celebrities. And I have less than five months to do it. Working “9 to 5”, I am
definitely “Romancing the Stone,” as my pliers become my most “Lethal Weapon”. As
I wrap wire in graceful curves around carefully chosen natural, raw gemstones
including Fire Agate, Iridescent Labradorite, Druzy Crystal Agate, Turquoise,
and Citrine. When I get to my favorite, Picasso Jasper, I can’t help but think
of “The Matrix”.</span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTf_rnROkNezbbd1omEDHpRK9_XAgdTLaZO73LjxuYxL6yymVL7GlX6aWYLMEsM3TTH8f-GO4dJ6q-IdIZ3NEI_5rcCjOxEDE7fArmNsjIKOpQlqhPHz9lnqub3AL2rdPq5B7bof6BB1Vy/s1600/blog+jasper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTf_rnROkNezbbd1omEDHpRK9_XAgdTLaZO73LjxuYxL6yymVL7GlX6aWYLMEsM3TTH8f-GO4dJ6q-IdIZ3NEI_5rcCjOxEDE7fArmNsjIKOpQlqhPHz9lnqub3AL2rdPq5B7bof6BB1Vy/s320/blog+jasper.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Picasso Jasper</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSKWrElwzK_xe_Qb2VpU0kUsxJFGuLzaQzPlrvI_00NkfY2FwSPo7QVupLRt9-xIGYdnLIJ99Bq2geE04tKQUVxGxPvuSPejscsfMSWYYEJzug4KqXy78YxYt2SYLLYp2hlajmOBQfQfjR/s1600/blog+citrine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSKWrElwzK_xe_Qb2VpU0kUsxJFGuLzaQzPlrvI_00NkfY2FwSPo7QVupLRt9-xIGYdnLIJ99Bq2geE04tKQUVxGxPvuSPejscsfMSWYYEJzug4KqXy78YxYt2SYLLYp2hlajmOBQfQfjR/s320/blog+citrine.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Citrine</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicsxlcukOMNVXGSR5MIMeC6RZ7gblF9sK_iBhZgJIrRQsa5WZ0YFJUq3lofVP4rBNQ4THHf65G97TQxJ49qsokCjhgvoDIPEL3cKZTQDyALxmKh_0wZ5Kg7mPQbMuhrwzLgQf9l3E0NKA6/s1600/blog+lab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicsxlcukOMNVXGSR5MIMeC6RZ7gblF9sK_iBhZgJIrRQsa5WZ0YFJUq3lofVP4rBNQ4THHf65G97TQxJ49qsokCjhgvoDIPEL3cKZTQDyALxmKh_0wZ5Kg7mPQbMuhrwzLgQf9l3E0NKA6/s320/blog+lab.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Labradorite</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>SCENE
3</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Gifting at the <i>MTV Movie Awards</i> is not just about
making pieces for the swag bags. I also have to create an eye-catching display
for the gift lounge, so that celebs stopping by can see, feel and try on my
pieces. I’ve commissioned a special wood display piece, but in an almost “WTF
Moment”, it has not arrived and the shipping date is drawing near. With “Total
Recall”, I think of a beautiful piece of driftwood I collected on the beach in
Belize last winter. I find it, cut it down to size and give it a coat of
acrylic for a soft natural luster. Voila, I’m good to go. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3IrUZfDM87BVOVjFxqHmS230slzaQfWqPoFBHXUXyO0AGf13Xyy0-XHHV6YbK_DGVgX9xqm-yvLTpUbhZi6wcfzIDLIE5t7n1rz5EuChJ861ze9DSGnH5ZEiEcJLRuVu6Oh9MJhBTOzbB/s1600/blog+display.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3IrUZfDM87BVOVjFxqHmS230slzaQfWqPoFBHXUXyO0AGf13Xyy0-XHHV6YbK_DGVgX9xqm-yvLTpUbhZi6wcfzIDLIE5t7n1rz5EuChJ861ze9DSGnH5ZEiEcJLRuVu6Oh9MJhBTOzbB/s320/blog+display.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>SCENE
4<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">It’s “Freaky Friday”. I’m
fast at work packaging my beautiful pendants, with the help of my four year old
granddaughter who has agreed to help (and who is very good at giving directions
for a four year old). </span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQlNcVTFyTKr5CUZZz_B3ruCv1KtXovVg21cL3c4x4R2RqA1ORzUHn4fSPpdNcOL3OYhol9VqOEw5o2xxGKh65Mrby7hJ0I7pqd7yQl1OGULkn3WzUrceUrr69p0E8UkjqfYrMkIekI-0f/s1600/blog+assembly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQlNcVTFyTKr5CUZZz_B3ruCv1KtXovVg21cL3c4x4R2RqA1ORzUHn4fSPpdNcOL3OYhol9VqOEw5o2xxGKh65Mrby7hJ0I7pqd7yQl1OGULkn3WzUrceUrr69p0E8UkjqfYrMkIekI-0f/s320/blog+assembly.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">The routine is box,
b-card, bio, organza bag, ribbon—performed at record-breaking “Speed”. One
after another, after another and suddenly what once seemed like “Mission
Impossible” is DONE! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>CUT
TO FINAL SCENE<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">It’s time for a “Cocktail”,
and what could be more apropos than a delicious “Buttered Popcorn.” Here are
two recipes for you to enjoy while you’re watching the Awards. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.cocktail-guru.com/buttered-popcorn.html">Buttered Popcorn</a></span><span style="font-size: small;"> (by Aricka Johnson
of Sedalia Mo)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">This
cocktail tastes exactly like a Jelly Belly Buttered Popcorn jelly bean.<br />
</span><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;">1/2
oz Frangelico<br />
1/2 oz Disaronno Amaretto<br />
1 oz Bailey Irish Cream - or other variant<br />
1/2 to 3/4 oz butter shots<br />
<span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;">Glass:</span> <span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;">Old Fashioned or chilled liqueur glass</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;">Pour all ingredients into shaker, add ice, shake
or stir (whatever you prefer) and strain on the rocks or into chilled liqueur
glass with no ice.</span><br />
</span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
<span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;">Note: add more or less butter shots to taste.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.hangarone.com/california-tour/entry/214"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Hot Buttered Popcorn</span></a></span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> (Randy Tarlow, Los Angeles) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">5 oz fresh popped popcorn<br />
2 oz Hangar One Straight<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
3 oz organic raw butter<br />
0.25 oz sea salt, 8 oz sugar, 10 oz water, 6 oz mineral water, 4 oz sugar, 0.75
oz egg white, 1 tbs caramel<br />
<br />
Heat popcorn, sugar, salt, water, butter in pot. Simmer and strain into glass
with caramel, sea salt rim. Add vodka. Whip foam ingredients with immersion
blender then spoon over top. Drizzle caramel over top with a pinch of sea salt.
Serve along side of fresh popcorn. </span></div>
<div style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span></div>Carolyn Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036067128485573164noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7997858889674382317.post-1688359597803845752012-04-23T18:24:00.001-07:002012-05-24T10:12:50.788-07:00Gifting Rachael Ray-Simply Delish!<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">I confess,
I’m a huge Rachael Ray fan. I don’t know what I love more, her infectious smile
and perky personality or her spunky, get it done attitude. Whether I’m watching
the<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Rachael Ray Show</span></i>, reading<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Everyday
with Rachael Ray</span></i>, or sampling one of her recipes—she’s always good
for a dash of inspiration. If I had been in Alaska when Rachael visited in
2006, I’m sure I would have made the two and a half hour trek from Sterling to
Anchorage on the off-chance of catching a glimpse of her at <i><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Mr. Whitekeys’ Fly By Night Club!</span></i><span class="apple-converted-space"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Needless
to say, when <i><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";">The Artisan
Group</span></i> selected me to take part in an exclusive cooperative
gift bag destined for Rachael herself, I got a little excited. Once the
euphoria wore off, I started to think about what I should send. I knew I
wanted to do a one-of-a-kind, created especially for her, piece of
jewelry. Should I go with my own personal favorite stone, Picasso Jasper? Or
maybe a blingy, Druzy crystal agate? In the end, I decided on Peridot, in honor
of Rachael’s birthday month, August. The fact that Peridot brings balance
and reduces stress was an additional consideration. The search for a stone was
on, and in time I came across a stunning raw Peridot that I knew would make the
perfect dramatic focal. Here it is: <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="line-height: 15.75pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVfBJXKXss0Cdkb6SZBHFhiOpXic1UolT9uMwrGdl2rfae5EWfmdOh0QpHZEvrbXHszXms1dWixa_4XWHApqqqGqJfm-Ib8xezQnDeEpkn1mO7xtVIQ1IFi2WbyCA2A5tLSB82Ztavmx4f/s1600/RR+stone+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVfBJXKXss0Cdkb6SZBHFhiOpXic1UolT9uMwrGdl2rfae5EWfmdOh0QpHZEvrbXHszXms1dWixa_4XWHApqqqGqJfm-Ib8xezQnDeEpkn1mO7xtVIQ1IFi2WbyCA2A5tLSB82Ztavmx4f/s320/RR+stone+before.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="line-height: 15.75pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter">
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0">
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0">
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1">
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2">
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth">
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight">
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1">
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2">
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth">
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0">
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight">
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0">
</v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:formulas>
<v:path gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect" o:extrusionok="f">
<o:lock aspectratio="t" v:ext="edit">
</o:lock></v:path></v:stroke></v:shapetype></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Raw
Peridot <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">I always
let the stone decide how I will wrap the piece, allowing the curves and swirls
of the wire setting to enhance and add to the stone’s personality. This is part
of what makes each pendant unique. For Rachael’s Peridot, I chose a rustic gun
metal wire for the wrap, to enhance the stone’s lime, olive and emerald green
tones. As a finishing touch, I selected a long gunmetal chain to hang the
pendant on, in keeping with Rachael’s straightforward style. Here’s the end
result: <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-XPgXNacMvA7CX3jjRtsIPUq-afsVqdi_EaSHr4fKCTOhPR5SaGOm1DWEsMlC7N-yDZVC9DSGbbAXouci6arXIrqbSaKMwter_98bqDDjCvwFAV_yRX_i7xIY3uxgjk3VIGH5ucuannP/s1600/RR+chain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-XPgXNacMvA7CX3jjRtsIPUq-afsVqdi_EaSHr4fKCTOhPR5SaGOm1DWEsMlC7N-yDZVC9DSGbbAXouci6arXIrqbSaKMwter_98bqDDjCvwFAV_yRX_i7xIY3uxgjk3VIGH5ucuannP/s320/RR+chain.jpg" width="235" /></a><i><span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"></span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Rachael Ray Pendant</span></i><span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"> Raw Natural Peridot, Rustic gun-metal Wire, gun-metal Chain<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">The
pendant is now on its way to Rachael in New York City. What do you think? I
hope she loves it. If I’m lucky maybe I’ll see her wearing it on<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif";">The
Rachael Ray Show</span></i>. You know that I’ll be watching! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Oh, and
one more thing! I create my jewelry pieces in the corner of my living
room, overlooking the Kenai River. It’s not uncommon to catch a glimpse of
salmon leaping in the water. In honor of Rachael Ray and my beautiful studio
view, here’s a favorite salmon recipe, one I think Rachael would love. Enjoy! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">And now,
off to finish up my pieces for the 2012 MTV Movie Awards. I’ll have my pendants
on display and in the celebrity gift bags there. I’ll be blogging about that
later so stay tuned. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Hugs,
Carolyn<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><u><span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" /></span></u></b><b><u><span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">MAPLE-GLAZED
GRILLED SALMON</span></u></b><span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">1 C maple
syrup<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">2 T
ketchup <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">2T brown
sugar<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">1 T cider
vinegar<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">1 T
Worcestershire sauce<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">½ t salt<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">½ t ground
mustard<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">1/8 t hot
pepper sauce<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">1 salmon
fillet<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: 15.75pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #080000; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">In bowl
combine first 8 ingredients; mix well. Pour ½ C into large resealable
plastic bag; add salmon and seal bag. Turn to coat; refrigerate for
up to 2 hrs. Cover and refrigerate remaining marinade. Before
starting the grill coat grill with nonstick cooking spray. Drain and
discard marinade from salmon. Grill salmon skin side up over med-hot heat
for 2-4 mins. Transfer to a double thickness of heavy-duty foil.
Spoon some of the reserved marinade over salmon. Fold foil around fillet
and seal tightly. Grill 5-6 mins longer or until fish flakes easily with
fork. Brush with remaining marinade if desired. Serves 8<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKN18xYftSgKHe0UNUJBk1OBHmVDfsHQ3BVmWiDbC9Hj3A4Jw8dB3LO8apgT3DxeT0yKbfH92LF3TWsf7qkG5nBkamel8sdF3NWOw7inJOftL6Wuur6WsiAWqaTK7gma97z5XdUchrBGtq/s1600/view+from+my+office.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKN18xYftSgKHe0UNUJBk1OBHmVDfsHQ3BVmWiDbC9Hj3A4Jw8dB3LO8apgT3DxeT0yKbfH92LF3TWsf7qkG5nBkamel8sdF3NWOw7inJOftL6Wuur6WsiAWqaTK7gma97z5XdUchrBGtq/s320/view+from+my+office.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Carolyn Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036067128485573164noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7997858889674382317.post-55403120810358864132012-03-02T07:34:00.000-08:002012-03-02T07:37:08.021-08:00Time to Amp, Revamp and Camp<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.caremore.etsy.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja6FEp6vRGrJkMhYiSOAnV6QL1n_nuZ7hKY850a9I1MNcuXEG9fQl7TMgU4eQ1FtbUYk5E0CVitw9BMNnWEt6Xq9rgpb9OKaQ2lGQpR4GBWRZOAmP5bOsAZfTcWFiiD3JSSDBTiEzCRCi7/s200/purple+druzy+agate.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.caremore.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Care More Creations</a><br />
Druzy Agate to be displayed <br />
at MTV Movie Awards</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Since the busy holiday season, I have been lax in the
necessary daily tasks of promoting my wire wrapped jewelry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t get me wrong….I still am completely
inspired by my craft.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I still get on my
computer every morning, checking my emails, checking in on Facebook, and BAM! I
am off in Facebook land for hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every
day, like clockwork.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is quite humorous
actually.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have countless tasks on my “TO
DO” list, which just gets longer and longer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But Facebook land sucks me in every time. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My TO DO list consists mainly of “learning”
tasks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>*learn twitter *learn Google+
*learn to make a press kit *learn SEO along with the countless e-books I have
paid for and downloaded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is time to
AMP it up!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I woke up this morning with a
new excitement!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am going to figure
this marketing out!</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Psa-w7_RJxF4N9ELWIWrMas6vi1jAMZyFmPFCFap4kvIYVhkMkDwOqSELn2fS_krxAKSGxTTqsORqY_BZAbkh4Zjr7VqS0bCN6wp7y9MUkAAP9zRcd-VlH8FVw4FrOUMmlZRco_h8wkw/s1600/294234_10150308848818604_775178603_7909488_278011025_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Psa-w7_RJxF4N9ELWIWrMas6vi1jAMZyFmPFCFap4kvIYVhkMkDwOqSELn2fS_krxAKSGxTTqsORqY_BZAbkh4Zjr7VqS0bCN6wp7y9MUkAAP9zRcd-VlH8FVw4FrOUMmlZRco_h8wkw/s1600/294234_10150308848818604_775178603_7909488_278011025_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">The Artisan Group</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
This past September I was invited to join The Artisan Group,
an exclusive group of talented artists that are represented at Hollywood’s
finest celebrity Gift Lounges such as The Emmys, Golden Globes and Academy
Awards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was so honored.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Valerie Guerrero, our founder, and Nikki
Cutro, co-founder put their heart and soul into our group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My first reaction of course was how awesome
it would be to have my jewelry seen and worn by celebrities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But since then I have learned that being a member
of the group is so much more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are a
close knit community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We promote, coach,
inspire, teach and cheer each other on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I have learned so much about business and marketing, but better yet, I
have learned so much about myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am
so excited about participating in the upcoming MTV Movie Awards this June.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So it is time to REVAMP!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Time to get my act together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Time to streamline my business and my
presence out there in cyber space to be ready for possibilities this
opportunity is going to give me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is
time to get to that TO DO list...<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12Y9XEM5IogBhmCZwUT7Pq3PwFu0zPlfulVm-Siz5u_8lWBjoNTb3aqtfi1fChs7UX-3bBo-hDyOYMuEPSh-WsNz-jn9rQYGg_HYUz_Eyip5ldJnktci3rfCm9Xrm1kr80v-7Us_tKRSn/s1600/luminosoty+log.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12Y9XEM5IogBhmCZwUT7Pq3PwFu0zPlfulVm-Siz5u_8lWBjoNTb3aqtfi1fChs7UX-3bBo-hDyOYMuEPSh-WsNz-jn9rQYGg_HYUz_Eyip5ldJnktci3rfCm9Xrm1kr80v-7Us_tKRSn/s200/luminosoty+log.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/94257895/labradorite-necklace-iridescent-wire" target="_blank">Labradorite on Etsy</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">I am such a regimented person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am so organized with my studio.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of my gemstones, beads, tools are in
their proper place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even my goals are
nice and organized on my TO DO list.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
acting upon them has been the hardest task of all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is so overwhelming. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is time to stop running around hilly nilly
all day and actually CAMP myself behind my e-books and learn, learn, learn how
to take this business to the next level!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Wish me luck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will be back,
keeping you informed with my progress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
will share my adventures over the next few months preparing for The MTV Movie
Awards Gift Lounge…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">You can learn more about my jewelry at: <a href="http://www.caremorecreations.com/" target="_blank">CareMoreCreations.com</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">You can learn more about The Artisan Group at: <a href="http://www.theartisangroup.org/" target="_blank">TheArtisanGroup.org</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span>Carolyn Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036067128485573164noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7997858889674382317.post-28016118410389133822012-03-01T06:24:00.001-08:002012-03-01T06:24:06.219-08:00Ammonite Fossil Wire Wrapped Pendant Necklace in Silver - Healing Gemstone - $62.00<a href='http://www.etsy.com/shop/caremore' title='My Etsy SHop'><img src='http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_170x135.315887391.jpg' style='margin: 0px 20px 20px 20px; float: left; ' /></a>"Seascape" is an ammonite fossil wire wrapped pendant necklace that I handcrafted swirling and shaping nontarnish silver plate wire by hand to create a beautiful setting that enhances the natural beauty, color and shape of the stone. This unique agatized fossil gemstone has shades of brown and beige with quartz-like crystals throughout. It is a fascinating jewel of nature. The elegant swirl wire-wrapped set...<br/><br/><a href='http://www.etsy.com/shop/caremore' title='My Etsy SHop'>Click Here to Visit My Etsy Shop!</a>Carolyn Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036067128485573164noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7997858889674382317.post-66923990994709767702010-07-15T16:33:00.000-07:002010-07-16T00:39:46.384-07:00A Mystical Voyage Through Care More Creations~Music is well said to be the speech of angels. ~Thomas Carlyle, Essays, "The Opera"<br /><br />As I previously stated in my "Welcome" post, one of my endeavors with creating this blog was to not only self-promote Care More Creations and my wire wrapped gemstone pendants, but also to promote some of my fellow Etsy and Artfire friends. On a regular basis, I plan to feature an Etsy or Artfire Shop owner with video put to music, especially those shops that provide all-natural eco-friendly products. Then, of course, this video can be linked to Twitter, Facebook, other blogs, etc. To get this started, today I am featuring myself and my shops on Artfire and Etsy. To see what I have to offer for sale, please enter my shops that are displayed to the right of this post. I would love to know what you think of my video....all comments are welcome. If you are interested in a video created special for you, please let me know.<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxaqXLKfo5k3p2HPNYanC5tesDU9gStcSCWuFi97LSaq0KxqSqZK0vZmMuWkTu8a44NwLJnVECNsrN_67lmFw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><br />Also, please click my video on YouTube and leave any comments there as well.<br />http://www.youtube.com/caremorefor<br /><br />I look forward to this adventure in search for great shops to feature on my blog...I think this will be a fun project, not only for the creative aspect of it, but also to get to meet new friends along the way!Carolyn Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036067128485573164noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7997858889674382317.post-47872859627275242352010-06-17T12:41:00.000-07:002010-06-17T21:29:48.682-07:00<em><span style="color:#993300;">AMBITIONS~<br /></span></em><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#336666;">“THE CATCH”<br /></div></span><br /><div>Oh, the joy of creating! Those envisioned projects swirling around within our heads (and hearts). </div><br /><div>Like the victorious “catch” of landing that elusive trout, the slow and steady challenge of reeling him in, and of course the anticipation of finally landing him ashore to finally reward our tastebuds being just moments away... <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 223px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483833326978424978" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPIJyLuiNCEuNsh4qOnB-iODDSosVHgBSs7esCj16j71sanhqkBmydu0oRLAozS1v3L0hTbnbA1AhqXbY5vOETr8PF3_ZDGMEiy6oFbmSE5fujZEktrV3izOivr-5zmj_dKLnbaB3WdU8B/s320/salmon+victory.jpg" /></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size:85%;">My daughter in 1995</span></em></div><br /><br /><div>So is the “catch” when we first feast our eyes on that perfect and essential key component of a future work of art that sparks our creative juices. The anticipation of the gratifying, though sometimes challenging creative process and the joy of utilizing the tools that God gave us, our hands and our hearts. And of course the great satisfaction of admiring our own finished accomplishment that has materialized before our very eyes.<br /></div><br /><div>Now the difficult decision….do I keep it to enjoy myself? Do I give it to a loved one with a generous and grateful heart that they are in my life? Or do I go ahead and set it free, spread the joy, and offer it to a stranger who will appreciate my talents and hard work and enjoy it for years to come.<br /><br />Like any victory, which is the best part? The discovery? The anticipation? The process? The accomplishment?<br /><br />To me it is the combination of each…into the whole shebang, the whole nine yards…hook, line and sinker!!<br /><br />That is the reward…that is the reason I create!<br /><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDSJHpVok1naxMUnDcNfevxzU_f5R0eazWq8fjHn1eitWZSrkKLemyVAH05PBt8j887khdDJrQ84OIDeYx-mdOEQ3ryj3Ubp8soeAlvAkcQAIiTFwLXwnWOHiLCjWebhNIlSCi17ozTRXv/s1600/catch+gemstones.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 242px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 319px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483842938944024642" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDSJHpVok1naxMUnDcNfevxzU_f5R0eazWq8fjHn1eitWZSrkKLemyVAH05PBt8j887khdDJrQ84OIDeYx-mdOEQ3ryj3Ubp8soeAlvAkcQAIiTFwLXwnWOHiLCjWebhNIlSCi17ozTRXv/s320/catch+gemstones.jpg" /></a> This is a photo of my latest “CATCH”.<br />Each individual gemstone is a natural gift from God. I give each one the eagle eye…envisioning a design to bring it to life into another wire wrapped pendant to admire. <div></div><div></div><div><em></em></div><div><em></em></div><div><em>Clockwise from top:</em></div><div><em>Labradorite</em></div><div><em>Rose Quartz</em></div><div><em>Volcanic Lava Rock</em></div><div><em>White Quartz Druzy Crystal</em></div><div><em>Malachite</em></div><div><em>Natural Turquoise</em></div><div><em>Tennessee Conglomerate</em></div><div><em>Amethyst Crystal</em></div><div>center-<em>Red Picture Jasper</em></div>Carolyn Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036067128485573164noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7997858889674382317.post-88485527961152858782010-06-14T20:21:00.000-07:002010-06-14T20:52:11.581-07:00Welcome~ From a Nature-loving Jewelry-creating Alaskan<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitND8iH7PpaUPCJgQj1sSnXj-woG6S8nJNF11VNYb6936vgJv_Lz_86OjMHiKlDqCCbgpDc1EjwqwgYc5EA7Mn2zPhmJLEDoQOnyJw6TLrOxZYyaRe4gqXogXSCoJLECf19QQiDnMdruU0/s1600/artfire+avatar.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482841352591011394" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitND8iH7PpaUPCJgQj1sSnXj-woG6S8nJNF11VNYb6936vgJv_Lz_86OjMHiKlDqCCbgpDc1EjwqwgYc5EA7Mn2zPhmJLEDoQOnyJw6TLrOxZYyaRe4gqXogXSCoJLECf19QQiDnMdruU0/s320/artfire+avatar.jpg" /></a>The day has finally arrived. I have been procrastinating this blog for weeks as journaling is definitely not my strong suit. I have a ton of thoughts, ideas and inspirations swirling around this brain and heart of mine, but putting them down into words is a whole other story. So bear with me at first, but I am sure I will get the hang of it eventually. I am sitting here looking out my studio window, watching a couple moose browze along the riverbank, and since I am inspired I thought I would give this blogging a try...<br /><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkY3X3tkT0IdrPBc6fxDvg6iv3rWtKOPMEzUuJvMXr38Oks-bBkkmgpq3xRxEWIwIgZvEOwmJ6zUaLpLKxsXxBSAsItn_Gj4Gauw32jyKS15bzSBt1yhLr9usoI1kLOhXhyphenhyphenZ8ytTNHRAf/s1600/two+moose.jpg"></a></div><div></div><div></div><div>I live on the Kenai River in Sterling Alaska, where it is an everyday occurrence to see moose, bear, eagles, and splashing salmon in the river down below our deck. It is so serene and inspirational. I have so much to be grateful for. Living here definitely inspires my creations. I am surrounded by the very nature that I love and respect. </div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkY3X3tkT0IdrPBc6fxDvg6iv3rWtKOPMEzUuJvMXr38Oks-bBkkmgpq3xRxEWIwIgZvEOwmJ6zUaLpLKxsXxBSAsItn_Gj4Gauw32jyKS15bzSBt1yhLr9usoI1kLOhXhyphenhyphenZ8ytTNHRAf/s1600/two+moose.jpg"></a></div><div>The weather this year has been gorgeous, which is unusual for Alaska, but I am torn each day whether to get outside or create my wire-wrapped pendants. I love making them...(though my housework leaves a lot to be desired! *smile*) I am building up a pretty good inventory for my Etsy and Artfire shops and will soon post them. I have also been making a lot of Alaska stone pendants for our local gift shops that have really taken off. I am very happy about that.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkY3X3tkT0IdrPBc6fxDvg6iv3rWtKOPMEzUuJvMXr38Oks-bBkkmgpq3xRxEWIwIgZvEOwmJ6zUaLpLKxsXxBSAsItn_Gj4Gauw32jyKS15bzSBt1yhLr9usoI1kLOhXhyphenhyphenZ8ytTNHRAf/s1600/two+moose.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 286px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482841364449978354" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkY3X3tkT0IdrPBc6fxDvg6iv3rWtKOPMEzUuJvMXr38Oks-bBkkmgpq3xRxEWIwIgZvEOwmJ6zUaLpLKxsXxBSAsItn_Gj4Gauw32jyKS15bzSBt1yhLr9usoI1kLOhXhyphenhyphenZ8ytTNHRAf/s320/two+moose.jpg" /></a>I hope to feature fellow artists in future blogs who I have come to know and who's work I admire. Becoming a member of Etsy and Artfire has become a life-changing event in my life. If I am not wrapping stones, I am on the internet trying to market my pendants. It has been a real challenge, as I am sure my fellow artists can attest to also. The answer is "EXPOSURE". The more we are out there, the more people will come. It is all a tricky game and I am still figuring it out. Blogging is supposed to help, but I want my blog to be more than a marketing concept. I hope that when people are finished reading each of my blogs they leave with a smile on their face or a sigh in their breath.<br /><br />~~til we meet again…</div>Carolyn Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15036067128485573164noreply@blogger.com10